Our WANDERful JouRnEy!

Budget accommodation in El Nido Palawan

2016-01-04T22:11:00.000-08:00

Our stay with Joaquinn’s Bed and breakfast El Nido was hassle free. They arranged all our transfers and island hopping activities. Since we are group of 6 we also got huge discount from our accommodation to island hopping rate.

Sunrise view from our room - Joaquinn's Bed and Breakfast El Nido

Joaquinn's Bed and Breakfast El Nido

We chose Joaquinn’s because they have rooms for big groups (max 7) with affordable price at 4500 per night (with discounted price at 4000). We really enjoyed our free breakfast everyday especially the danggit and spam with free overlooking of the mountains. All staffs were so accommodating and they made sure to always attend to our needs especially Angel who always update us with our island hopping and to all the boatmen and guides for taking care of us.

Party Boat Joaquinn's Bed and Breakfast El Nido

2nd floor of Joaquinn's Bed and Breakfast El Nido's party boat.

You can also rent snorkel and aqua shoes from them for only 100 pesos. We also love their party boat that can accommodate 25 person with sound system. Sounds played while on board the Joaquinn’s party boat adds up the relaxation and good atmosphere. Aside from good service and accommodating staff, Joaquinn’s has the best location in El Nido very near the dock area of boats for island hopping. Very near the beach which is 3 to 5 minutes walk as well as the restaurants, eateries, stores and market. Just make sure to bring cash when going to El Nido as they only have one ATM Machine at the Municipal Hall that limits you to 4000 withdrawal.

If going back El Nido, we will not hesitate to stay again in Joaquinn’s Bed and breakfast.

El Nido Municipal Hall

Market Area Joaquinn's Bed and Breakfast El Nido

El Nido beach area

El Nido in black and white

Moutnain view from Joaquinn's Bed and Breakfast El Nido

Beautiful El Nido

Joaquinn's Bed and Breakfast El Nido

Barangay Buenaswerte, El Nido

Email address: joaquinnsbb@gmail.com

+63 927 705 0560

Backtrack to old Philippines (Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar)

2015-11-09T00:45:00.000-08:00

After driving all the way to Mount Samat for me and my bff's double birthday celebration, we decided to take our lunch in the neighboring town of Balanga because food establishments are limited in Pilar area. What others do when visiting Mount Samat, they bring their own food and share it with their companions in picnic style. After our heavy lunch, we took the road again heading Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar. Las Casas is on the same road as Mount Samat. Distance between the two locations is about 20 kilometers more or less an hour travel time.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar (The Philippine Houses of Acuzar) is a 400 hectares heritage park and resort located in Bagac Bataan built by José “Gerry” Acuzar, owner of the New San Jose Builders and history art collector. Entrance fee is 680 pesos for day tour with guided tour, welcome drink and cold towel. You can also use the resort's facilities including the swimming pool and witness the cultural show every 6 in the evening. Guided tour usually takes 1 and ½ hour which will bring you to different beautiful restored houses. The old houses are mostly Spanish design which will really let you travel back in time. These heritage houses were painstakingly transferred and carefully dismantled, brick by brick from their original locations in the different parts of the Philippines and carefully restored by the resort’s artists. These houses were rehabilitated to resemble the original structure. The parts that were missing like woodwork and bricks were replicated to resemble the original structure.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

Some of the old houses you can see at Las Casas. Guests are allowed to enter to some of the houses just remove your footwear first.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Old milk can

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Old way to iron clothes

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Mosaic interior

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Walking tour

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

First Class hotel in the area is Hotel De Oriente from Binono Manila.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Hotel De Oriente

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Hotel De Orient

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Lola Basyang bridge

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar walking tour

Cultural show

Generally, our historical tour in Bataan was so memorable. Not only we have got the opportunity to see the beauty Bataan has to offer but the chance to get a glimpse of the province’s rich culture and history. A history every youth should know and appreciate to ignite their heart for the love of country that can be passed on the next generation.

Exploring Mount Samat

2015-11-08T23:38:00.000-08:00

For a double birthday celebration, I and my best bud Vino decided to have a historical tour in Bataan. A side trip to Mount Samat for Shrine of Valor in Pilar and a visit to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac. We left Manila 8 in the morning and arrived 11 at Mount Samat. You have to pay 30 pesos for the entrance fee including the elevator ride to Mount Samat’s cross viewing deck. I believe that getting in Mount Samat is not that easy as it is advisable to bring your own vehicle to reach the steep summit. Nevertheless, if you’re the adventurous type and loves to walk without worrying the steep slope you can reach the summit for 2 hours or more after riding a trike (100pesos) that will bring you to a certain drop off point.

Long line to the elevator Mount Samat viewing deck

Dambana ng Kagitingan Bataan

We reached the cross filled with people falling in line for the elevator ride. Luckily we rode the elevator just right in time before lunch break. Elevator ride to the cross closes at 12pm and reopens at 1 in the afternoon. The capacity of the elevator is just for 8 people that will lift you to 30^th floor where the viewing deck is located. You can see here 180 degree view of Bataan province and Manila Bay too. View in here is so relaxing because of lush greenery and cool breeze kissing your skin. We stayed here for just 15 to 30 minutes as guards on duty will take their lunch break. Unfortunately we have no luck in visiting the museum since it closes at 12 but we’re able to explore the other side where stained glass murals and a historic stage are located.

Mount Samat Dambana ng Kagitingan Bataan

Mount Samat Dambana ng Kagitingan Bataan viewing deck

Mount Samat Dambana ng Kagitingan Bataan

Mount Samat Dambana ng Kagitingan Bataan viewing deck

Mount Samat Dambana ng Kagitingan Bataan

Mount Samat reminds us how our fellow countrymen and even Americans suffered during the World War II battle. We likewise saw the “Death March” marker while on the road that somewhat made us imagine how those heroes walked through their death. You will realize how great having countrymen that shows bravery and heroism for the love of country during the World war II. Hopefully new generation will visit this Shrine of Valor so they can look back at our history.

Off - roading adventure to Mount Pinatubo

2015-06-04T23:41:00.000-07:00

Summer season is about to end, so our group decided to have one last trip before rainy days arrived. We chose Pinatubo adventure since we were rooting for this trip for quite a while. Upon searching how to save for this trip we ended up getting the package of Kuya Wendell Mercado (0919-608-4313), the President of 4 Wheeler's Club since among online packages i find his reasonable. We are 8 in the group so we divided the expenses resulting to a 1800 contribution per head which comprised of the following:

3000 - 4 x 4 that will accommodate maximum of 5 pax.
500 - conservation fee per head
500 - tour guide fee per 4 x 4
150 - Aeta passway fee per head
250 - breakfast meal and 2 pcs. Chicken with extra rice for our lunch.

We left Alabang 3 in the morning and arrived in Capas Tarlac 5:30 in time for our breakfast. Mcdonalds in Capas just after the public market passing by a Caltex gasoline station is the common stop over among tourists to Pinatubo where you can take your breakfast or buy some necessities at the nearest 7 - 11. It's 7:30 already when we arrived at Santa Juliana where the tourist center is located. I immediately look for Ate Khey (Kuya Wendell's secretary) who assisted us in the entire registration. Please bear in mind that you must do all you bathroom necessities here since there are only 2 available bathroom areas, one is halfway the trek and the other one is on the crater. After settling our waivers and bills the adventure started.

Tourism Center Sta. Juliana Capas Tarlac - drop off point to Pinatubo

Since we are group of 8, we're divided into 2 4 x 4 vehicles. The off - roading adventure lasted for an hour and you will enjoy a spectacular view along the way.

Off-roading adventure to Mount Pinatubo

After the thrilling 4 x 4 ride, our trekking started. Our original plan was to take the short route which will last for about 30 minutes trekking, unluckily, that route was closed (just a week ago) when we got there. So we have no choice but to bear with the long route that consumed us to 2 hours trekking. It was quite an exhausting walk (maybe because we have no enough sleep) but very manageable. You can stop whenever you want and enjoy sharing stories with your guide and your trekking buddies.

Trekking adventure to Mount Pinatubo

Along the way you will enjoy the scenery of different sand formations created by the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in year 1995. We also encounter the local kids of Tarukan Capas enjoying their huge playground. Seeing them was so inspiring, will make you realized that we are so blessed in many ways.

Local Kids of Tarukan Capas Tarlac (Pinatubo)

Finally, after all the tiring walk, this was our beautiful reward.

Magnificent Beauty of Mount Pinatubo

Magnificent Beauty of Mount Pinatubo crater lake

After taking some photos, we rest for a while and took our lunch picnic style then descend to Pinatubo's crater afterwards. We lasted at the crater for an hour or 2 and started trekking back 1:30 in the afternoon. Going back was so light and fast that it took as only an hour trekking to our 4 x 4 ride. We arrived at the tourist center 3:30 in the afternoon. We rest for a while then took a bathe in the available shower areas just across the tourist center for 50 pesos per head.

Our Mount Pinatubo trip was an adventure we will never forget since it was our first time to an off - roading adventure using a 4 x 4 vehicle and our first long hike/trek. So much learning and so much beauty. Mount Pinatubo left me in awe wondering how nature and God worked together to create this kind of beauty. A beautiful disaster, indeed.

Trekking adventure to Mount Pinatubo

How to get there:

Via private vehicle

Take the NLEX road until you reached the end road of NLEX which is Sta. Inez exit. From there take the Mc Arthur Highway Mabalacat en route Bamban until you reach the Capas Public Market. Just after the market left turn to a small road to Barangay Sto. Rosario and take 25km of countryside road passing by barangays Aranguren, Cristo Rey, Sta. Lucia, O'Donnell and finally Sta. Juliana where the tourism center is located.

Via commute

Ride any bus en route Pangasinan, Baguio or Tarlac and drop off at Capas Junction. Ride a tricycle just across Mcdonald's Capas that will bring you to Sta. Juliana, the jump off point to Mount Pinatubo

An enjoyable Island hopping in Coron

2015-02-04T23:32:00.001-08:00

We scheduled our island hopping in Coron during our 3rd day availing the package tour from Coron Galeri for 650 per pax including boat rental, needed permits, guided tour, and lunch. We also rented snorkelibg gear for 100 each. What's nice with Coron Galeri is they allow joined tour with walk-ins and other travelers to save so if you are couple or group of 4 they will join you in other groups. Luckily we are group of 6 so our tour was. most likely a private one. Coron Galeri also offers private tour and other tours.

Our call time was 8 in the morning so we took breakfast first in an eatery near Coron Galeri. After some registration and boat assignement, the exciting adventure started. What we visited were the following:

1. CYC Island (Coron Youth Club Island) - according to our boatman this island was once a paradise until other private resort took advantage and stole its white sand.

CYC Island Coron

Jump shot in CYC Island Coron

2. Twin Peak We really enjoyed swimming, snorkeling and fish feeding here. We really enjoyed the view and the activities. Photos will not lie how we super relished our island hopping activity in Coron! It was Super FUN! It is called Twin Peak reefs because of the presence of two giant limestone rock formation like a twin tower. This place is best for snorkeling to see corals and fishes. The water here is super clear.

Twin Peak Coron

Snorkeling time -Twin Peak Coron

Super Clear water Coron

Fish Feeding Coron

Coron Island hopping

twin peak Coron

3. Isla Bulunganis a small island near Twin Peak (fish feeding area) where we took our lunch. It is called as such because 'bulungan" means to heal and it's a place for Pinoy Healers a long time ago.

Isla Bulungan Coron

Look at the ravine - Coron

Coron Island hopping

4. Hidden Lagoon Hidden lagoon is a place where fresh water and salt water meet - hot and cold. The view here is astounding because it is completely walled in by mountains. we really enjoyed relaxing here and water is just 5 feet.

Hidden Lagoon Coron

5. Kayangan Lake You can reach the viewing deck and the lake for about 10 to 15 minutes hike. One of the most outstanding places in Coron is Kayangan Lake with scenic view of gigantic limestone formation, beautiful lake with turquoise blue water and the clearest fresh water lake i have seen. Swimming is very refreshing and the view of rock formation underneath is just amazing. This place is the most awesome scenery i have only seen in postcards. Most especially the stunning view at the viewing deck is so breathtaking. Truly a hidden PARADISE! Beautiful Coron!

Kayangan Lake Coron

Beautiful Kayangan Lake Coron

Coron is really an amazing province, a paradise indeed! Hoping that locals can preserve its natural wonders so next generation will be able to see its beauty. I love Coron! I love Palawan!

Coron DIY City tour

2014-12-11T22:00:00.000-08:00

Our second day in Coron Palawan started with a DIY City tour including Maquinit Hotspring, Coron Cashew Harvest, Lualhati Park, and Mount Tapyas. According to my research other travelers who have been to Coron opt climbing Mount Tapyas in the afternoon to catch the sunset and go to Maquinit hotspring afterwards for a soothing hot spring therapy. We chose the latter instead of going for the usual itinerary because we want to see the beautiful panoramic view of Maquinit hotspring.

We started our 2nd day by renting 2 trikes (6pax) to Maquinit worth 300 pesos per trike 2 way and they will wait for us for 2 hours. By the way, please expect some rough roads during the 20 to 30 minutes ride to Maquinit. We arrived at Maquinit Hotspring 8:30 in the morning and we paid 150 per head for the entrance fee. It was our first time to experience salt water hot spring that's so refreshing and soothing to the body. Just be careful dipping because this hot spring can reach its maximum heat to 40 degrees.

Maquinit Hot Spring rate

Huge tribal mask hanging on a tree - Maquinit hotspring

Maquiniit Hotspring

Maquinit hotspring Coron

Maquinit Hot spring Coron

Maquinit hot spring Coron

Maquinit hotspring

Maquinit Hot spring Coron

Then again, what we really really love about this place is the view. Even if the sun rays started kissing our skin, we felt the cool breeze in the area because mangroves and full-grown trees are everywhere. While on the other side of Maquinit is an improvised bridge placed in the middle of mangrove trees that will lead you to a stunning view of sea and mountains. I knew it! View in the morning is sooooo majestic. We're right in deciding to go there in the morning, not only we enjoyed dipping in the soothing hot spring, we also enjoyed the view.

Maquinit Hot Spring Coron

Stunning mountain view in Maquinit Hot Spring Coron

Reflection of Mountains in Maquinit Hot Spring Coron

Maquinit Hot Spring Coron

After our relaxing activity in Maquinit Hotspring, in the afternoon of our 2nd day we decided to visit the remaining destinations in our DIY City tour, the Coron cashew harvest, Lualhati Park and Mount Tapyas for sunset. DIY'ing City tour in Coron is so easy because trikes are everywhere and fare is just 10 pesos per person per way.

Lualhati Park Coron

Seen 7 - Lualhati Park Coron

Coron Cashew Harvest

Coron Cashew harvest

Coron Cashew Harvest Owner

When climbing Mount Tapyas, make sure you bring bottled water to quench your thirst because it's a boggling 720 steps to the cross, haha.

Stairs to Mount Tapyas

View of Coron Town

Mount Tapyas

After the supposedly 720 steps to Mounta Tapyas, these were our rewards. Seeing the newly rebuild cross which was previously damaghed by Typhoon Yolanda (Haian), a magnificent view of Coron town and of course, the spectacular Coron SUNSET! We were lucky to witness such phenomenon. Such an amazing feeling!

Mount Tapyas cross

Partial Coron Sunset

Coron Sunset - Mount Tapyas

Overlooking Coron - Mount Tapyas

Mount Tapyas overlooking

Coron Sunset view from Mount Tapyas

Palanca Guest House Coron

2014-12-07T20:14:00.000-08:00

We we’re lucky to avail a Piso Fare from Cebu Pacific for our successful Coron trip last November. We’re rooting to visit Coron for a long time since we wanted to see the beautiful destinations we only see on the internet. After our booking reservation, I immediately searched for a budget accommodation that will fit our budget. (6500 all – in contribution for 6 pax) I found some hotels and inns with reasonable price but they only allow maximum of 4 pax in a room so I researched for other inns. Then I found out this Pink Transient house offering 450 pesos per pax per night rate so I immediately inquired about the house and the reservation process. I booked the house 3 months before our trip but 4 days before our trip my contact Kuya Art called me saying that the house is no longer available because it will undergo an unexpected general repair for the water pump. I was so pissed at first because all we wanted was a privacy and kitchen facilities so we can save on our food expenses but in all fairness, Kuya Art arranged all the necessary transaction for us to transfer to another accommodation that will still fit our budget and he also gave us a big discount as a consoling action for the unanticipated changes in our reservation.

For accommodations, transfers, and package tours you can contact Kuya Art and he will assist you in everything you need for your stay in Coron.

Kuya Art - 09195778762

Palanca guest house was the alternative accommodation given to us by Kuya Art (native from Coron). According to him Palanca guest house was once a vacation house and started receiving guests last 2010 with just four (4) rooms named after the four (4) children of the owner that soon build additional rooms which then named after the three (3) grandchildren. The room they gave us (Room Anna Mae) can accommodate 6pax which cost 3000 per night. The room has two (2) large double beds and one recliner/bed fit for two (2). It also has a cabinet for your belongings and a Bathroom. You can see several water dispensers here so cold and hot water for your coffee every morning will not be a problem. Our room also has a good overlooking view from the veranda. Palanca guest house also offer -silog breakfast meal from 80 to 100 pesos and they also accept paluto for minimal charges. Their other rooms range from 1500 to 2500. They also offer transfers and tours. Some other services they offer are the following:

Welcome drinks
On-call massage
WIFI
Laundry and dry cleaning
Tour and ticketing office
Airport transfer services
Swimming equipment rental

Palanca Guest House Coron

Just outside Palanca Guest House Coron

Palanca Guest House Coron

Breakfast - Palanca Guest House Coron

In general, our stay in Palanca Guest house was sooo homey . Felt like we own the place with our own veranda. The owner Ms. Dianne was so accommodating. The toilets and rooms were clean and staffs were friendly and accommodating! What we really love about this place is their location. It is literally in the center of everything, short walk from restaurants, bakery, mini stores, eateries, and travel tours. Trike is also everywhere so transportation will not be a problem. If ever going back to Coron we will not hesitate to stay again in Palanca Guest House because for us it’s a home away from home.

Palanca Guest House

24 Don Pedro Street, 5316 Coron, Palawan

09994919933

09062469206

09088216881

09182022266

Palanca Guest House FB Page

The colorful festival of Pahiyas in Lucban Quezon

2014-12-03T17:14:00.000-08:00

Every time that month of May comes, our news feed is always filled with photos and blogs about their experience with Pahiyas festival which kindles our desire to visit the said festivity in the flesh. Our group decided to do it this year, so we planned to have a day trip last May 15.

We decided to travel early to have a good spot in parking lot since some roads to the town entrance are closed. Travel time from Alabang to Lucban Quezon is 2 to 3 hours. We left Alabang at about 5 in the morning and arrived in Lucban 8 in the morning. From the allowed parking lot we walked for about 100 to 200 meters before reaching the houses with decorations. Good thing we came early to have good photo shots ‘coz people started to flock around 10am and you wouldn’t have a good angle to capture the whole house with beautiful decor.

Pahiyas festival 2014

Pahiyas festival is yearly celebrated every 15^th day of the month of May whatever day it may fall. This festival is in honor to the patron saint of farmers, St. Isidore for a good harvest. It is dubbed as one of the most colorful festivals in the Philippines because houses here participate to showcase colorful arrangement and decorations of “Kiping” (a leaf-shaped wafers made of rice dabbed with bright colors) and harvests.

As you walk around the streets of Lucban, you will be amazed on how dedicated Lucbanins in putting their best effort to beautify their houses with Kiping and different products from their harvest. The houses are dressed in their grandiose decors that can make you utter WOW!

Pahiyas festival 2014

good harvest - Pahiyas festival 2014

Pahiyas festival 2014

Coconut husk decor turn into a peacock - Pahiyas festival 2014

Pahiyas festival 2014

Locals busy finalizing the decor of their houses - Pahiyas festival 2014

Pahiyas festival 2014

The feeling is so magical just being there and how people enjoy the festivity. It’s the effort and the hospitality of Lucbanins that made this festivity stand out. Very traditional, very Filipino. If you want something new and something colorful it’s a must to visit Pahiyas festival and be amazed by their colorful houses and also don’t miss their famous delicacies like Lucban longganisa, yema cake, pilipit and pancit habhab.

Pahiyas festival 2014

Beautiful Kiping decor - Pahiyas festival 2014

Pahiyas festival 2014

Pancit habhab - Pahiyas festival 2014

It was our first time to witness this well-known Philippine festival and definitely, this was a dream come true. A truly great experience that added some color to our summer!

How to go to Lucban Quezon via commute:

There are 3 terminals you can go to catch a bus en route Sta. Cruz Laguna; Alabang, Pasay and Cubao. Just ask the conductor to drop you off at the jeepney terminal bound to Lucban then ride a jeepney with Lucban sign for 45 minutes to an hour.

Via private vehicle:

Take the South Luzon expressway passing by Calamba exit. Take the route passing by towns of Los Banos, Bay, Pila, Pagsanjan, Sta. Cruz, Nagcarlan, Cavinti, Luisiana then Lucban.

The 13 Life Lessons I learned from 7 years of Traveling

2014-12-01T23:48:00.000-08:00

Ever since I got my first earning during my first job I promised myself that I will travel, so when I received my first paycheck after an accomplished project I invited my friends for a treat to explore Puerto Galera in 2007 where I experienced total freedom and happiness. Since then like a drug I got addicted to traveling. The more I research about a province or a place of interest, the more I pursue to be there. Hence, traveling not only teaches me how to enjoy my life but merely teaches me some life lessons I can never ingest from school, lessons that I want to share with you all. Here are some of those:

1. Having the right mindset: Traveling is not really that expensive

When people heard about “Traveling” one thing is for sure they will say that it’s expensive and more of spending too much money but traveling is less expensive than you think it is. There are so many ways to travel without spending much, it’ just a matter of planning ahead, saving, and travel in group. If you want to slice up your expenses for your travel you must watch out for seat sale from airlines. Believe me seat sale is really a big help especially the 0 fare or 1 peso base fare promo from Cebu Pacific and Air Asia. Would you believe that we have been to Bohol, Cebu, Boracay and Palawan for just 500 pesos per way per person, much cheaper than a bus fare to Pagudpud for 600. Moreover, if you’re not into luxurious accommodations you can choose transient houses or inns that offer cheaper rates than of hotels. Addition to that, you can cut down your travel expenses if you travel with group because expenses are divided into individuals and you can get great deals and discounts from travel packages.

Aerial shot while on board a Cebu Pacific plane

2. Financial management

Financial management simply because you learn how to budget and prioritize what you really need instead of spending too much in what you want. For my 7 years of traveling in group I always make sure that we have months to save. For an instance, airlines offer an advance booking for a particular travel dates and we avail dates with 6 months to 1 year allowance that gives us plenty of time to save from our salaries or allowances. Traveling also teaches us to sacrifice some of our shopping indulgence to save for a future travel. My personal experience for example, if I have to buy new set of clothes or shoes I choose brand that is pocket-friendly, or sometimes I disregard replacing my phone to a new one because my current phone is still in good condition, or at times moderating my coffee date in Starbucks and eating in a fine dine restaurant. Simple sacrifice that has big impact in saving a lot for future travel.

3. Appreciation

In traveling, you will not only learn to appreciate the beauty of nature and the amusement you will feel when you see God’s creation, but the appreciation in every simple or little things you will see or have most particularly when visiting rural areas where locals enjoy the simple life they have. You will see that they are happy even if they don’t have much food on their table or even wearing the simplest clothes they have. By seeing them, you will appreciate more your life realizing that you are truly blessed in every ways and the blessings you received leave no room for complaining.

The children of Sagada

4. Patience

In traveling your patience will be test for several times. Patience on flight delays, patience in waiting for your companion to arrive, patience in every mishap you will encounter, patience for long queue, patience when you encounter rude people, patience when your time is wasted, patience when things never run as you planned, and even patience with your own self. Let us admit it, not only in traveling but as well as in our lives that things don’t always go the way we want it, what important is how you handle an unforeseen situation and how you stand & recover after things go wrong.

5. Don’t judge

For me this life lesson is applicable not only in traveling but as well in our daily lives. Like for example, as a researcher for our next destination, I always encounter good and bad reviews in every accommodation, tourist spot, people or restaurant. What I do is I evaluate exquisitely every aspect because sometimes bad and even good experiences happen unexpectedly. I never rely on blogs and information I gather from the internet alone, but I always give it a shot because we will never really know how stunning a place is or how comfortable a hotel is or how delicious the food is unless you experience it yourself. Like in life, we should never judge a person unless you really know him/her that well and you know what he/she has been through in the past.

6. Be positive (always)

Life is more exciting when you travel but sometimes sticky situations may interfere along the way. This may happen several times when you think all is set and something is going great, something bad happens. Learn how to be positive or look at the brighter side in every bad situation. Maybe the reason why things don’t go your way, something better is about to happen. What you need to do is learn how to adjust with the situation and come up with a good decision if needed. Always remember that you can make it through every unexpected circumstances, pick the lessons that can make you better the next time, and just go with the flow and for sure your travel will truly be unforgettable.

7. Pack light

In every travel, you don’t need to bring your whole wardrobe and cabinet with you, plan out what you really need most and choose to pack light. Perhaps, not only your body will suffer in taking your bulging baggage but also your pocket from spending extra baggage fee. What I do with most of my travel is writing down my travel checklist so I will not forget anything and pack essentials in small amount (sachet). Packing light means being comfortable with your whole travel experience.

8. Don’t compare

Keep in mind that your travel experiences will not be similar to what you see in others. You have your own and you must enjoy every minute of it without worrying if you will do the same thing as what you saw on travel shows and blogs. You must create your own memories. Isn’t it fulfilling if you didn't expect what’s about to happen and just enjoy?! So don’t compare.

Beautiful sunset in Barcelona Sorsogon

9. Be friendly by opening a conversation

When you are new to a place, the tendency is you are more of an observant than a talker. But there is nothing wrong if you make friends with the locals or with other travelers (local & foreign). Don’t hesitate to ask some questions or just ask how their travel is. Through conversation not only you open your door to new culture and beliefs but you will absolutely learn something from them. Try to ask your friendly boatman about their daily living or ask the solo traveler from Europe the best places to see in their country or just get along with other local travelers. Not only you increase your communication skills but you elevate your knowledge to something new, you boost your confidence, and you hear different stories & lessons that you can apply with yourself. Without a doubt, every interaction is an opportunity to learn and learning is a continuous process, so the more you interact the more you learn in life. Getting to know your fellow travelers is one of a kind experience that is really fun thing to do. It is really amazing that in traveling you create not only connections but you build a new friendship.

The Koreans we met in Bantayan Island

10. Just relax

When I am on a vacation I make sure that my phone is just for taking beautiful photos, not to entertain phone calls related to work. I just want to enjoy, relax and savor every memory I create while on travel. Beforehand, I made sure that I finished all my duties at work and tell my co-workers that I’m on leave and will not entertain calls. I want my vacation to be purely enjoyment and relaxation so I put everything back home and learn not to worry about everything. Accept it, you cannot work and travel at the same time, so give yourself the freedom from all the worries, the urban life, and work problems. Give yourself quiet moments of reflection and just ENJOY!

Boracay

Panglao Bohol

11. It’s good to try new things

In my 7 years of traveling, it helped me a lot to expand my border. I don’t limit myself of just being at home or at work because traveling for me is breaking out of my comfort zone and enjoying all the world has to offer. I want to discover more about the world; new food to eat, new culture to discover, new places to capture, new people to meet, new activity to fulfill, new challenge to overcome, new things to learn, and many more. In traveling everyday is a new adventure so don’t prohibit yourself from trying out new things you’ve not experience in your whole life. That is why H. Jackson Brown Jr., uttered these words, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” Discover more about the world by actually getting out there, seeing it and experiencing it. Perhaps, all these beautiful experiences you will share to your children and grandchildren someday.

snorkeling in Coron Palawan

12. Invest in experiences not things

As we all know material possessions are things that upgrade,replace, and not made to last. Experiences on the other hand are events in your life which leave an indelible mark in your life. Experiences that can make you smile every time you remember them. Experiences that you will never forget because these experiences mold you to become better. Experiences that you will never get tired of sharing to your children and grandchildren. Experiences that no any amount of money can buy!

13. Traveling is the best teacher

There is a Chinese proverb saying that “We gain more from traveling ten thousand miles that studying ten thousand books.” I 200% agree with that because in traveling you get knowledge firsthand. You’ll be able to see the things you only see in books, magazines and television. The feeling is overwhelming while witnessing a phenomenon you only see from watching National geographic channel or Travel Asia. In traveling not only you acquire knowledge, you experience it and you have fun.

Sagada

Sumaguing Cave Sagada

I believe that traveling is the best education one can get because not only you learn Accounting (budgeting), Geography (all about a place), Physical Education (hiking, swimming, trekking), Culinary (new food to eat), Arts (museums), and Science (how things are formed) but you learn how to be HAPPY. You learn how to ENJOY no matter how hard life is. Because traveling is not just for FUN, it will make you a BETTER PERSON! So get up there, pack your things and do something AWESOME! Cheers for more travel!

Hidden Paradise in the province of Sorsogon

2014-11-30T21:34:00.000-08:00

Last May my auntie invited us to go for a vacation in Bicol and I immediately said YES because I am so missing my mother’s hometown in Barcelona Sorsogon which I have visited 12 years ago. Our vacation also coincided with the Barcelona’s town fiesta so felt like a grand reunion happened during our stay where we met our relatives in our family tree. The feeling is so nostalgic. I felt personal joy within myself that somehow i've come and seen again the place where once upon a time my mom spends her childhood days.

Barcelona Sorsogon

Barcelona Sorsogon St. Joseph parish

Barcelona Sorsogon Sunset

The big bonus during our vacation was an introduction to some places I never expected Sorsogon province would have. Some of the new born places for tourism that we have visited are the following:

1. Mount Bulusan Volcano National Park

Mount Bulusan is one of the active volcanoes in the Philippines located in Sorsogon. This mystical volcano will surely capture anyone’s attention with its evident magnificence. On this active volcano’s feet lies Bulusan Volcano Natural Park, a nature sanctuary perfectly hidden in the middle of a lush rainforest and a scenic lake as a centerpiece. The lake is one of Sorsogon’s major attractions. According to locals this lake is perpetually green because of the presence of algae and is surrounded by luxuriant trees that contribute to an even greener landscape. Bulusan Lake is gradually creating a name in tourism industry that's why tourist-friendly activities have been introduced along the perimeter of the lake. Kayaking, boating and water bikes while Hiking/trekking along the inner and outer crater are also offered to more adventurous visitors.

Bulusan Volcano Natural park

Family and relatives

2. Island Hopping in Matnog

Juag Lagoon is a fish sanctuary and lobster farm included in the island hopping package in Matnog. It is like a real-life huge aquarium where visitors can feed and swim with sea creatures. Fish feeding is done through a raft and you must buy small fishes or pellets to feed huge fishes. Fishes here are everywhere, of different sizes and colors. Very noticeable in here are the huge groupers just as big as a whole arm.

Matnog Island hopping

This is how clear the water is while heading Juag Lagoon

Juan lagoon Matnog

On the other hand, there is Subic Beach located in Subic Daco, in Matnog Sorsogon. It is a 30-minute boat ride from Matnog, Sorsogon Port. Tourist fee is 75 pesos per head and boat rental for island hopping is 1600php for day tour and 2000php for overnight. Subic beach is an unexplored virgin island with pinkish sand, clear aquamarine waters, cool breeze air, and a very tranquil atmosphere. It is known for its white sand with a touch of pink because of crushed red corals. The tranquility of the place invites travelers to frolic on the island’s pinkish-white beach or take a dip in the placid, cold waters. Subic beach in Matnog Sorsogon is truly a hidden gem of the province and we are so lucky to explore and enjoy this island at its unspoiled state.

Subic beach Matnog Sorsogon

The clear and cold water of Subic beach Matnog Sorsogon

Subic beach Matnog Sorsogon

3. Natural Springs

Masacrot Springs in Bulusan, Sorsogon is a flowing natural cold spring with green lagoon. This body of water was surrounded by cool shade of trees. Dipping into this cold spring was really refreshing! The soda water - like taste of this cold spring was the reason why it's called masacrot (mapakla)! This spring has been naturally carved from the Bulusan soil. There are lots of trees around. The water was so crisp and clear. No fuss. Pure nature.

Masacrot Cold Spring Sorsogon

Another hot spring in Sorsogon is San Benon Hot Spring, located in Irosin, Sorsogon just few kilometers from Masacrot Springs. San Benon's hot spring water was so relaxing and soothing to the nerves. Its sulfuric healing properties is said to be really good to the muscles and nerves. It was quite hot in the beginning but I got use to it eventually.

San Benon hotspring Sorsogon

San Benon hotspring Sorsogo

We really enjoyed our vacation in my mother’s hometown. Not only we have got the chance to meet our relatives on our mother side but as travelers, me and my cousin Karl realized that our mother's hometown (Sorsogon) has lot of things to offer that we really didn't expect to visit and discover. Sorsogon surely has something that you will enjoy. Thank you to our Aunt Nancy and her siblings for letting us see and experience the hidden treasures of Sorsogon. Truly a hidden Paradise

Rizal beach Sorsogon

Fedillaga Clan

Bohol Island hopping FUN experience

2014-11-24T17:10:00.000-08:00

When we visited Panglao Bohol for the first time (September 2011) we were not able to experience island hopping activity due to lack of time, so for our second visit we made sure that we will experience this one of a kind activity by this time. So for our 3rd day in Panglao Bohol, we were scheduled for an island hopping tour comprised of Dolphin watching and snorkeling at Balicasag Island. We took our breakfast as early as 5:00 in the morning because our call time with the boatman was 5:30 in the morning. Alonaland resort arranged our Island hopping tour for 1500 good for 6 to 8pax. Before that morning we already prepared our “Baon” because we’ve already researched in advance that food in the island is so expensive. We brought with us water, eggplant, salted egg, tomatoes and marinated pork chop.

Island hopping with Seen 7

Sunset Panglao Island

It was 6 in the morning when we set ourselves in the water and started chasing dolphins. Good thing, there were already dolphins in the area when we arrived. Our boatman said that there are season that dolphins are not visible so we are lucky enough to see them in the wild. The catchy thing about this activity is that Dolphins only appear in the surface of the ocean for a few seconds and then instantaneously disappear without warning. But it was so fun seeing them in their habitat realizing that they were just few arms away from us. Some dolphins even share some exhibition moves to us. We felt like we were kids playing hide and seek with the cutesy dolphins and the feeling was so extraordinary.

Dolphin watching in Bohol

Here are some video clips from our dolphin watching activity:

After an hour of chasing the dolphins, we headed to Balicasag Island to snorkel and have our brunch. Our boatman advised us to rent not only some snorkeling gear but some aqua shoes as well because the shore is covered with sharp coral pieces and we can encounter sharp rocks in the snorkeling area. To reach the snorkeling area one must ride a small boat (fits 2-3 person) that will be paddled manually by a guide. We paid an additional 400 per head for the rental of snorkeling gear, aqua shoes and small boat ride. We stay in Balicasag Island for almost 5 hours including our lunch time, a proof that we really enjoyed our snorkeling activity. Who would have not enjoyed seeing the rich marine biodiversity of Balicasag Island? The water of Balicasag is so clear and you can bring bread or biscuits to see see different kinds of fishes of different color and sizes. What I really love about this activity is the calm and shallow water (about 4 to 5 feet) where you can find the marine sanctuary. You don’t really need to be a good swimmer to fish feed and sneak at the corals. But if you are a good diver you will surely enjoy the barred area (with buoy) because underneath is a ravine and a tunnel where divers pass by.

Balicasag Reef Bohol

You can just stand to see colorful fishes - Balicasag Reef Bohol

Ravine - Balicasag Reef Bohol

After the tiring activity we enjoyed our lunch in a picnic table with our “baon” and an additional menu we bought from the island.

After eating, we rest for a while then enjoy the island. We planned to go to Virgin Island but our boatman warned us that it’s already high tide and the sandbar is not visible anymore so we decided to go back and enjoyed the rest of our day in the pool area of Alonaland Resort. We really enjoyed this day especially the snorkeling activity where we saw how protected marine life in Bohol province. It was indeed a sooooo worthy day!

balicasag island

Us on a paddle boat - balicasag island

BOHOL rising from the rubble

2014-11-20T20:23:00.000-08:00

Part 2 of our Bohol invasion was a Countryside tour comprising of different beautiful spots in Bohol province. Despite being hit by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake last October 2013, it’s obvious that Bohol is rising from the rubble. It’s business as usual for their tourism as they needed it the most during this trying time. Alona beach resort arranged our tour for 2500 good for 6 pax or more depending on the capacity of the tourist van. Please allot an additional 300pesos for all the destination’s entrance fees.

Some of the attractions we visited are as follows:

1. Tarsier Conservation Area

This place is where Boholanos preserve the endemic species called Tarsier. It was very noticeable that the said earthquake had great effect on the species as their numbers were obviously reduced. Hopefully that these tarsiers will adjust the soonest.

Bohol tarsier

2. Man – made forest

This is my favourite spot in Bohol after Chocolate Hills because it is very refreshing here and you will be amused on how the trees are arranged perfectly. Taking picture in this spot is quite thrilling because you need to look out for passing by vehicles.

Stunning Manmade forest of Bohol

3. Sipatan Hanging Bridge

Even if it’s my second time visiting this place, I’m still thrilled crossing this bridge. If not with the affordable “pasalubongs” sold at the end of this bridge, I will not attempt to cross, haha.

Sipatan Hanging Bridge Bohol

4. Chocolate Hills

Seeing the damage created by the earthquake, it’s really heart breaking. You will notice that some hills have cracks and small landslips scarring their sides. The viewing deck was still off limits and the bell has been destroyed.

5. Loboc River Cruise

Our favourite part of the tour, buffet lunch while cruising the Loboc River. Good food + good song + beautiful view = A perfect buffet experience

Loboc River

Buffet Lunch (Loboc River)

Loboc River

Enjoying our buffet lunch at Loboc River

Loboc River

6. Loboc church ruins

Of all the tourist spots in Bohol, this is the most painful. It was so sad to see century old church in that form; broke into pieces. The good thing here is this iconic church is now under rehabilitation. Sadly, what was left after the earthquake is this.

Loboc Church Ruins

7. Blood Compact Site

This was our last stop for the countryside tour. The monument of the momentous “Sanduguan” happened in Bohol between Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, to seal their friendship as part of the tradition. The downside of this spot is the fixers in the area who will take pictures of you without your permission and afterwards they will charge you for the photos they shoot.

Blood Compact Site Bohol

Blood Compact Site

Blood Compact Site Bohol

Truly, Bohol is a wonderful province. Despite the 2013 earthquake, tourist industry is now back on track, surviving. Bohol is getting back on its feet after the deadly quake. No earthquake can break the resiliency of Filipino people. #BangonBohol

A night in a pancake haven (Slappy Cakes)

2014-09-22T00:41:00.001-07:00

The most fun way to celebrate a Friday Payday is to eat pancakes!!! We bravely run into the horrible traffic jam last Friday night to meet our friends and try Slappy Cakes breakfast & brunch restaurant in SM Aura since we are all pancake lovers.

Slappy Cakes is a fun place for breakfast and pancake lovers where you can create pancakes right at your own table with griddle. What’s really enjoyable is you can choose your own batter and toppings depending on what you want to put on your customized pancakes. They offered five (5) different batters, namely Buttermilk, Vegan, Chocolate, Whole Grain and Peanut Butter. Their squeeze bottle of batter can do 5 to 6 regular size pancakes. While you can choose different fixins and toppings from sweet to savory, bacon, lemon curd, whipped cream, banana, and blueberries to name a few. For us, we had two different batters, a good buttermilk (P225) that has slightly salty taste and also delicious chocolate batter(P260). For our toppings, we ordered Nuttella, Chocolate Chips and Mangoes. Weird combination, isn’t it?! Haha. Slappy Cakes also offers Maple Syrup that I think too runny and mango syrup all for free.

Slappy Cakes

Slappy Cakes menu

Nuttela, Mangoes, Chocolate Chips - Slappy Cakes

And for the FUN part. Unleash your creative side by making different arts, shapes and letters out of your pancake batter. We really enjoyed cooking pancakes while laughing at our own designs ‘coz we know it’s not that perfect. Oh by the way here’s a TIP, the crew who demonstrate us the process said that NEVER TAP your pancake after flipping to maintain its fluffiness. (wink)

they are enjoying their Slappy Cakes

Slappy Cakes

Slappy Cakes - bestfriend for life

Slappy Cakes - heart

Even Slappy Cakes is a franchise from the US, they also offers Filipino breakfasts like Tapa, Bacon, Tocino and Sloppy Moco (burger patty). They don’t have wide variety of menu for lunch and dinner but pancakes overcome this insufficiency.

Sloppy Moco with 3 dips

Carbonara

Tapa and cheese sticks

In general, we enjoyed the unusual experience of creating pancakes outside of our home. We also enjoyed the clean yet whimsical decor and relaxed vibe of the place. Service was great, very friendly and courteous crews. If we are craving with pancakes, we will definitely go back and master designing the pancakes haha.

Alluring Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

2014-06-19T23:56:00.000-07:00

Last Holy Week 2014 we spend our 6 days vacation in Cebu and Bohol. We travelled to Bohol via OceanJet and reserved our tickets online for 400php per head. It was a 2 hours boat ride from Cebu to port of Tagbilaran and we did not regret choosing the open air seats because of scenic view along the way. We even met a retiree from U.S and fell in love with Bohol province proving that Bohol is a perfect zone for retiring hive.

We chose Alonaland resort as our home in Panglao, Bohol for roughly five days and we personally recommend this resort for everyone who loves to travel from one place to another specially to families who are planning to bring their loved ones to Panglao Island in Bohol. Alonaland resort has the cheapest offer among other resorts in Alona Beach Panglao, Bohol. Since we are on a budget we immediately reserved their House 13 good for 6pax for 2,500php per night. We are not expecting any extravagant from this hotel since the rate is so affordable but we’re so amazed when we arrived. Surprisingly you will be captivated by the fusion of Asian-Mediterranean inspired houses, the gardens are well maintained, and at night, you will hear nothing but the sounds of nature, the croaking of frogs, the relaxing noise of cicadas on a fine hot summer's night, I even saw fire flies enchanting a mango tree. Everywhere you look there were scenic views and great spots for relaxation. The whole resort is so huge and not that crowded. Every house or room accommodation assures you a great privacy and relaxation.

Facade of House 13 Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Our accommodation is a 2 – storey house composed of Living room with television, verandah with big wooden table and chairs, kitchen with complete cooking utensils and refrigerator, a bathroom with shower and washroom, an air-conditioned room on the ground floor with 2 double beds and cabinet, an air-conditioned open room upstairs with 2 double beds and lastly a terrace. They also have grilling areas and billiard table free of use. If you plan to cook for your meal during your stay, plan ahead your menu to save time and trike(150php) fare going to the wet and dry market. Though this resort is 15 to 20 minutes walk away from the beach, they offer a free shuttle service every hour. Their staffs are all accommodating and they even helped us with our transfers and tours (1500 – island hopping/dolphin; 2500 – countryside tour; 600 – transfer).

Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Living room Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Bedroom Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Bathroom / Comfort room Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Wash area Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Wash Area Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Kitchen Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

hammock area Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

View from the terrace of House 13 Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Bed upstairs Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Terrace Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Bed. Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Their well – maintained swimming pool is so relaxing even at night, and we really enjoyed dipping every day of our stay. Our 5 days stay in this resort was really great and so relaxing most especially seeing greens all over the resort and breathing fresh air. Having said that....this was by far one of the best vacations our group has experienced because of the very relaxing and homey atmosphere in this lovely and huge resort. Highly recommended for a family or group vacation. Two thumbs up!

Billiard table Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

House 13 Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Pathway Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

Lovely swimming pool of Alonaland Resort Panglao Bohol

For further details about Alonaland Resort please contact Rolf and Elsie Eggli at:

(63) 917 - 3040211

or at their email adress:

info@alonalandresort.com / info@alonaland.ch

Cebu City the 3rd time around!

2014-06-05T21:37:00.000-07:00

Cebu and Bohol are my second most favorite provinces in the Philippines after Palawan. If going to Bohol we always make sure to drop by at Cebu first to visit Sto Nino Church and of course to eat at our favorite Larsian.

Larsian Cebu

Chicken Barbeque larsian

Longganisa Balls - Larsian Cebu

Puso (Sticky rice) Larsian Cebu

Grilled sweet lonnganisa - Larsian Cebu

Grilled Milkfish and Tuna - Larsian Cebu

Salted Egg - Larsian Cebu

Larsian Cebu

Bestfriends For Life at larsian Cebu

Super enjoying our lunch at Larsian Cebu

Last Holy week 2014, we started our 6 days Cebu - Bohol vacation in Cebu City arriving there Holy Friday to spend some time praying and offering candles in Magellan's cross and Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino. We arrived Cebu City 5:30 in the morning and we still have time to rest so we immediately checked - in at our preferred budget accommodation, Verbena Pension House.

On our way to Cebu on board Air Asia

Traveling Feet! Mactan International Airport

Mactan Bridge Cebu

Verbena Pension house is one of the most budget - friendly hotels in Cebu City that offers room for big groups. If you are coming from Mactan International Airport, taxi fare going to Verbena will cost you 150 - 170php. Just tell the driver that you will stay at the old Verbena or else you will be brought to the new building. We booked the family air - conditioned room for 6pax with 1 double bed, 2 double - decked beds, bathroom/toilet, and television set. This room cost us 3,200php per night inclusive of buffet breakfast for 6. What I really love about this place aside from its wallet - friendly rate, is Verbena's ideal location. It's really near Fuente Circle, Shamrock "Pasalubong stall," Robinson's mall and of course our favorite eating place, Larsian.

Verbena Pension House Reception Area - Cebu

Verbena Pension House Cebu

Feunte Osmeña Circle Cebu City

Whenever there's a chance I always make sure to stay at least overnight in Cebu. I can't really expound why but there is something about Cebu that keeps me coming back. I just love this province. Actually, Cebu and Bohol are top 2 on my list of favorite provinces in the Philippines because I believe that Cebu and Bohol are equally beautiful in terms of landscape and having some of the best beaches in the country and the world. I will never get tired traveling back to these two wonderful provinces in Visayas region.

Magellan's Cross Cebu

Magellan's Cross Cebu - offered a prayer to a Mandadasal

Magellan's Cross Cebu with brace due to earthquake 2013

Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño Cebu City

Sto Nino stall at Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño Cebu City

Boracay at its BEST!

2014-05-28T00:56:00.000-07:00

So happy to be back in Boracay for the summer after booking Piso fare from Cebu Pacific late last year and this time I enjoyed the island with my Honey. During our first time visit in this paradise February of 2011 we got to enjoy different fun activities like Reef walking and Automatic Terrain Vehicle Ride to Mount Luho viewing deck (story here). But now, since it’s our second time to visit the place, we decided to just relax and enjoy Boracay beach at its finest. Third week of March when we travelled to Boracay and luckily it was not that crowded even summer has just began. Still, you need to book your accommodation in advance because tourists started to flock for as early as February. Even if we didn’t have a detailed itinerary, enjoying the Sun, Sand, and Sea is enough to have the perfect vacation we’ve been rooting for.

Boracay 2011 Reef walking

Boracay 2011 ATV to Mount Luho

Boracay will always be Boracay, a paradise on its own. It is considered as one of the top tourist destination not just in the Philippines but in Asia and the whole world. It is one of the top choices among white sand beaches when visiting the Philippines. Boracay still is a BEAUTY. Even if others say that it is too commercialized, I'm still delighted every time I see the island. Seeing the white sand, blue waters and hearing the sound of the beach waves bring so much relaxation to my mind and body. A proof to that is falling asleep by the beach while lying on a plastic white bench, haha.

This is LIFE in Boracay haha

Our 3 days vacation in Boracay is so refreshing. Fine white sand, crystal blue water, witnessing magnificent sunset, eating seafood, swimming, strolling along the white sand, hearing the sound of the beach waves, and staring at the spectacular scenery of the island are among the words that perfectly describe this island. Boracay is the place I will never get tired of visiting.

Enjoying the pool of La Carmela De Boracay

Boaracay 2014

Boracay 2014

Buffet by the beach Boracay 2014

Rehabilitation of Boracay - widening the white sand part of the beach

Boracay 2014

Beautiful Boracay

Beautiful Boracay 2014

Facade of La Carmela de Boracay

Boracay Station 1

view from La Carmela de Boravay pool area

Boracay 2014

Beatiful Boracay 2014

Even if others find this place overrated and commercialized, I will fall in love with Boracay all over again. Boracay has this kind of CHARM that keeps people coming. No wonder why this alluring place is always among top islands in Asia and in the world. One reason why "It's More Fun in the Philippines!" Now, how could you not fall in love with this place?!

Magnificent Boracay Sunset 2014

Lovely Sagada the 2nd time around

2014-04-28T23:46:00.000-07:00

They say that you will appreciate more a place the second time around, and undoubtedly we proved this right after our second visit in the beautiful province of Sagada. We decided to spend our Christmas vacation (2013) here and this time we stayed at Sagada Homestay because our first choice GeorgeGuesthouse is already fully booked that time. Rate is 300/head/night for the duplex type house with 2 rooms with double bed on the first floor and 4 beds upstairs. Homestay also offers an outdoor kitchen (150/day) in their main house where you can cook your own food and usage of cooking utensils. Usage of oil, salt, vegetables, and liquid soap are all free of charge. If you don't want cooking they also have their own restaurant (Home Stay's Diner) where they offer delicious foods (lots of choices) with affordable price (not that pricey unlike other famous restaus in Sagada) and service is excellent. They have great overlooking view from the duplex house and you can also relax in their bonfire area at night.

One of the BEST things we did in Sagada that you shouldn’t miss on your visit is Spelunking in Sumaguing Cave. But first, contact a guide from Sagada Genuine Guides Association (SAGGAS) ahead of time for your itinerary and they will served as your caring guide throughout the tour. Their blog site is also very helpful since every information you need is published on their site. Guide fee ranges from 300 to 1000 depending on the destination and number of participants. Remember: The more participants, the lesser is your expenses. Moreover, there are two ways to explore the cave, one is Spelunking for beginners and the other one is Cave Connection for more adventurous people. It usually takes 2 to 4 hours to complete the whole spelunking experience depending on you or your group's speed. Make sure to get certified guide from SAGGAS to assist you well during the spelunking. We have to trek down slippery stones to see magnificent stalactites, stalagmites and limestone formations. Down the cave you will find cold waters and natural pool that make the cave so cold. It was quite challenging trek, we need to pass by slippery stones, walk like a crab, rappel through ropes, pass by waist deep cold waters, and climb up steep stones. But we surpass all of those because of our caring Friend/guide/best photographer Fred Mayocyoc from SAGGAS who always ensure our safety and serves as our big hand and human ladder. He helped us with our footing and guiding us while holding a camera and a lamp. I'm so proud of our group because we survived Spelunking in Sumaguing cave. You wouldn’t feel that you’ve been in that cave for hours already because you will truly enjoy the whole experience. You can actually see on our photos how happy we are during the experience.

Here are some of our Spelunking shots in Sumaguing Cave.

Our guide/friend Fred from Sagada Genuine Guide Association

Look up in Sagada

Sagada's Sumaguing Cave

Sagada's Sumaguing Cave while going down slopes

Sagada's Sumaguing Cave

Sagada's Sumaguing Cave King's Curtain

water inside Sumaguing Cave (Sagada)

Confined Spaces Sagada Sumaguing Cave

Sagada Sumaguing Cave

Fred ensuring our safety while Spelunking Sumaguing Cave (Sagada)

Right foot, left foot as Fred guides our footings (Sumaguing Cave Sagada)

Strike a pose Fred - our human ladder (Sumaguing Cave Sagada)

Confined Spaces Sagada Sumaguing Cave

Limestone formation inside Sumaguing Cave Sagada

Sagada Sumaguing Cave

Other than the Beautiful Sumaguing cave, we also explored other tourist spots in Sagada like as follows:

Sagada's Small falls (Bokong falls)

Scenic view along Sumaguing Cave (Sagada)

Hangging Coffins of Sagada Mountain Province

Orange Picking at Rock Inn Sagada

Enjoying fresh oranges from Rock Inn Sagada

Orange Picking at Rock Inn Sagada

Breakfast at Rock Inn Sagada

Lumiang Cave Sagada

Sagada Rice Terraces along the way to Sumaguing Cave

Echo Valley Sagada

Sagada December 2013

If you are a backpacker, budget – traveler, and nature – lover, you will surely love SAGADA just as how we fall in love with this province and we will never get tired of coming back. Sagada never fails us to give fresh air, picturesque scenery, lush greenery and amazing discoveries. Getting to Sagada is always an awesome and fulfilling achievement. The best experience ever!!

Amazing Dinner Experience at Isdaan Floating Restaurant Calauan Laguna

2014-02-18T21:38:00.001-08:00

After seeing several posts about Isdaan Floating restaurant, I finally insisted to my group of bestfriends to visit one of their branches in Calauan Laguna (the other one is in Gerona, Tarlac) for our post Valentine Days celebration. Isdaan is a Floating Resto - Fun Park owned by the Ongpauco’s which also managed Barrio Fiesta that serves Filipino food. Their Calauan branch is only 1 hour and 15 minutes drive away from Alabang passing by towns of Los Banos and Bay, Laguna. The restaurant is easy to find as it is placed along the road of Calauan and gigantic mermaid statues placed just outside the entrance are so noticeable.

Isdaan entrance

It’s 4 in the afternoon when we arrived at the Isdaan. Big statues of mermaid and Universal Studio-like Madagascar statue welcomed us. There is no admission fee in here as long as you are dining inside. This restaurant is not just an ordinary place to eat but it is more like a big recreation park with Bali and Thailand theme. There is definitely a lot to see in here and it gets even better as you explore within and realize just how big the whole place is!

Isdaan Floating restaurant Calauan Laguna

We came with no reservation but still we got a nice Nipa Hut on an elevated area near a gigantic white Buddha. I instantly fell in love with the place with its relaxing ambiance incorporated with lovely bamboo huts that are suspended over the pond where kois are swarming around waiting for some food. The view will surely perk up your appetite. After getting our assigned hut, we decided to roam around first and scheduled our dinner at 7 in the evening. While wandering the whole place, you will be relaxed by its fun atmosphere and will bring out your inner child while taking pictures in their Disney-like statues. You will also find statues of security guards, monkeys, Dinosaurs, Elephants, Gigantic Mermaids and Buddhas, Disney characters, mini parks, boating area and many more. You might also be greeted by Circus performers, unicyclist, different mascots and an area where you can let out your anger by throwing cups or plates in a Tacsiyapo wall. You will really love the place as your eyes will be feasted with different masterpieces and it’s even very attractive during at night.

Taciyapo wall Calauan Laguna

View from atop - Isdaan Calauan Laguna

Isdaan Calauan Laguna

Hongkong??? No! It's in Isdaan Calauan Laguna

Isdaan Calauan Laguna

Gigantic mermaid - Isdaan Calauan Laguna

Gigantic Buddha - Isdaan Calauan Laguna

Nipa Huts - Isdaan Calauan Laguna

Thailand - like Buddha's head at Isdaan Calauan Laguna

Isdaan Floating Restaurant Calauan Laguna

After enjoying the place with several photo ops, we go back to our hut and order through the assigned crew. Mostly they offer Filipino food and their best sellers are Crispy Pata, Kare-Kare and Seafood. Price of their menu ranges from 300 and up while their drinks are from 50 pesos to 150. We ordered Bagong Saing na Kanin in small kaldero (116pesos), Pinakbet Barrio Fiesta (382) , Prime Cut Bulalo (689), Mama Chit’s Bilao (698), Fresh Coconut (88), Lechon Tupig(roasted chicken) (498), and macapnuo/leche flan for dessert (136). Our total bill: 3500php, not bad for a full-course meal good for 7 to 8 people. Some of the things I love in this place are their cozy ambiance, delicious food, fast service, and very approachable staffs. Reasons that will make you come back.

Mama Chit's Bilao - Isdaan Floating Restaurant

Super Crispy Tilapia even the fish bone - Isdaan Floating Restaurant

Crabs - Isdaan Floating Restaurant

Primecut Bulalo - Isdaan Floating Restaurant

Barrio Fiesta Pinakbet - Isdaan Floating Restaurant

Relaxing view at night

Isdaan Calauan Laguna at night

Overall, our trip to Isdaan Floating restaurant was full of fun. Not only we get to enjoy the food but we were really delighted by the place itself. Though food may seem a bit pricey, it is all worth it because good food is incorporated with good service and courteous staff. You will really love the relaxing ambiance of this place and the extraordinary experience that the entire restaurant gives you.

Isdaan is one fine restaurant that will make you go back as the place will make you feel like you’re in another country. With its remarkable setup, relaxing ambiance, beautiful interior, delicious food, and good service, this restaurant should be included in your bucket list. It is also a worthy side trip whenever you are in Laguna or Tarlac/Pampanga area.

Isdaan Floating Restaurant Calauan Laguna

Stairways to Batu Caves

2013-10-08T20:09:00.000-07:00

Batu Caves is a sacred place and a place for religious gathering of mostly Hindus and Indians. It is located approximately 11 kilometers to the north of Kuala Lumpur. Batu Caves is one of those FREE tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia that we luckily visited last March of 2012. Batu Caves is a sacred place of a limestone hill made up by three main caves and several small ones.

Lord Murugan - Batu Caves

From Kuala Lumpur City proper you can get to Batu Caves in 3 ways:

Via Train:

Take a KTM Commuter train from Sentral Station to Sentul Station. Travel time: 30 minutes. Fare is RM1.00 one way.

Via Bus:

Take bus 11 or 11d. Travel time is approximately 45 minutes depending on the traffic. Fare is RM2.50

Via Taxi:

Take any cab in the Sentral to take you to Batu Caves. Travel time is approximately 20 minutes and fare is usually RM20.00 that goes up to RM100.00 if you want the taxi to wait for you.

Upon arrival in Batu caves, we were welcomed by a huge golden statue named, Lord Murugan, a Hindu deity. It stands 140 ft high and considered as the world’s tallest statue of Murugan. Passing by the golden statue is way up to the cave with 272 steps. Watch out as monkeys come along during climbing moment and they can grab anything from tourists. Climbing 272 steps to the top may look easy, but as you move up and begin to sweat, it was like a never ending walk. Make sure you bring bottled water to refresh from sweat and hot weather. But after that arduous climb uncovers nature's wonderful gift, a natural limestone cave which calls as the Cathedral Cave. The Temple Cave or Cathedral Cave is the best known and biggest of the Batu caves. The cave is said to be 400 million years old with interior limestone ceiling that is more than 100 m above the ground and is illuminated by daylight through holes in the ceiling. Batu Caves was founded to be a site for Hindu worship in 1890 by K. Thamboosamy Pillai. The place is also the main location of Thaipusam festival in the country that occurs every January or February every year.

Back of golden statue of Lord Murugan - Batu caves

Batu Caves Malaysia

Doves

Lord Murugan Batu caves Malaysia

Batu Caves Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Batu Caves Malaysia

Steep staircase to Batu Caves

Upon entering the cave you will see some stalls that sell souvenirs, clothes, and other snacks. While inside the cave, you will see Hindu shrine which is dedicated to Lord Murugan. The entire place felt very sacred since there were some Indians worshipping at that time jibed with the light effects of the cave. Walk your way through to the rear cavern and you will be delighted seeing a natural opening that allows light to sneak-in in the rest of the cave area. In this area offers great views of rock formations. The Hindu temples within the caves were pretty interesting that make the Batu Caves very remarkable place to visit when in Kuala Lumpur.

Inside Batu Caves

Batu Caves Malaysia

Limestone formation of Batu Caves

Batu Caves

Batu Caves Malaysia

Open Ceiling Batu Caves Malaysia

Batu Caves Malaysia

Discovering Malaysia

2013-08-22T22:43:00.001-07:00

2012 was indeed a lucky year for me because of overflowing blessings like having the chance to work abroad and assigned on a Milk Powder Plant in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. I already knew about the overseas project late 2011 since I am also in-charge with the papers of all our personnel who will be assigned in MY and much to my excitement, I immediately search, plan and draft an itinerary of what to visit in Malaysia which I afterwards hashed out with Hon who’s in Malaysia as well.

I flew to Kuala Lumpur via Malaysia Airlines together with my father’s personal assistant and 2 additional employees. It was my first time to leave home, to leave my beloved Philippines and the feeling was so unusual. I felt a bit of sadness, thoughts keep running through my mind and I suddenly uttered “Ganito pala ang feeling ng mga OFW, ngayon alam ko na.” (Now I know how Overseas Filipino workers feel when they leave their family and their homeland) But after a while my sadness turns into excitement knowing that I’m so blessed having this opportunity to explore other countries in Asia and I’m so grateful to God for everything.

Flight duration from Manila to Malaysia is 3 hours. There are 2 international airports in Malaysia namely: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and KL Low Cost Carrier terminal (LCCT) where budget airlines like Cebu Pacific flies. We landed at KLIA and amazed by how good and spacious their airport is. After having a quick lunch we move ahead to Station Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) at Bandar Tasik Selatan where buses travel from KL to JB and vice versa. It took us 5 hours to reach Larkin Terminal hub in Johor Bahru and another hour for a taxi ride to our apartment.

For my months of stay in Malaysia, I learned some of their basic words and greetings like,

Selamat Pagi – Good morning

Selamat Datang – Welcome

Terima Kasih – Thank you

Pasukan – Entrance

Bawang Puti h – Garlic

Bawang Merah – Onion

Makan – Eat

Minuman – Drink

Ayam – Chicken

I also learned about their culture and of course their food. During wee hours, I just stay inside our apartment because of the curry smell circulating from time to time all over the compound, but after several weeks I already got used to it. Most of the time we ate fish, chicken, beef and vegetables because pork isn't available in the market and it is prohibited to Muslim countries. Most Malaysians have strong resemblance to Filipinos and at times you will see women wearing head scarf called “hajib” which symbolizes their religious devotion. One more thing noticeable with people of Malaysia is nobody points with their index finger because it is considered really rude; they are using thumbs and knuckles for pointing instead.

Here are some other discoveries I saw in Malaysia:

Malaysian Cuisine

Our project location

Roti - Bread with some filling

PTP Apartment view on the road

KFC Malaysia always serves 2 dipping sauce Catsup and Chili

KFC MAlaysia

Their Cheesy Potato Wedges - Sooo Yummy

Port Tanjung Pelepas

Fruits

Roti Canai - Spreading condensed milk

Roti Canai - Malaysian Breakfast comes with curry or sweet milk

Bittermerlon

ABC - Air Batu Campur or Ice Kakang (Halo-Halo version)

Fish and Chips - delectable

Mi Goreng my ultimate favorite product from Malaysia

PTP Apartment where we stay for months

Facilities inside the 2 bedroom/2 bathroom/2 shower room apartment

Just like a bliss apartment

Malaysia Tours

My food from Malaysian Airlines - noodles with chicken curry

Malaysian Airline free snack

Double bus Kuala Lumpur

Convenient store inside PTP Apartment

Buffet style food in the streets of Kuala Lumpur

Fish ball soup

Currencies

Business Center in PTP

Chicken Masala Pizza hut Malaysia

Our dried mangoes in a gondola of Malaysian mall

Pig's blood

Kuya Joseph - a Filipino seller we've met in a Filipino owned stall

Buko Pandan Stall - buko juice with taste of Pandan & locals love it.

Just like Greenbelt of the Philippines (signatured stuffs)

So yummy baby octopus

Bukit Indah - a mall in Johor Bahru

Malaysia is really a beautiful country with fascinating rich culture and I am so grateful I’d be able to visit this renowned country. I am truly hoping that I can visit this country again together with Singapore with my dearest friends because I want them to experience what we have encountered in this beautiful country; Malaysia Truly Asia.

Discovering Burot Beach of Calatagan Batangas

2013-06-25T23:11:00.002-07:00

Our group had an unexpected trip to this beautiful place in Calatagan, Batangas. Since our group wants a last shot outing for summer, we decided to have a beach trip. Our original plan was a weekend getaway to Laiya Batangas but as per my inquiry to several resorts there, they were all fully booked so we ended up searching for new destination in Batangas and found out about this secluded white sand beach in Calatagan, Batangas known as Burot Beach.

Burot Beach in Calatagan Batangas, formerly known as "Elizalde beach" but now a private property of SM Group of Companies is an undeveloped, unspoiled and peaceful beach. Getting there from Alabang is roughly 3 hours drive passing by Tagaytay and towns of Lian, Balayan and Calatagan Batangas. It’s still open for public so if you’re planning to visit the place, make it soon before SM totally close the property to construct a Beach resort and Golf Course.

Before going to Burot Beach, you must first get in touch with Mang Cesar (+63915-6028907) the caretaker of this private property that can help you in renting tents and other additional queries. It’s your choice if you want to stay for just a day tour trip which will cost you 65 pesos only while 120 pesos for an overnight stay. You can also rent a nipa hut (good for 6 to 8), table or tent ranging from 200 to 300 pesos. No need to worry if you are bringing your own vehicle because the whole place is so spacious that you can even park your car beside the nipa hut of your choice and most of all parking is free. Cottages and rooms are not available in the area so if you are planning to have an overnight stay make sure you have your tents with you otherwise you can rent some tents for 300 pesos. Moreover, there is no electricity in Burot beach but there are available bonfire woods (250 pesos per bundle) that you can use to be your light the whole night. Two public toilets and two showers are available in the area but with slow flowing faucet. Since Burot beach is now discovered by many, I do hope that management can add more toilet facilities for visitor’s convenience. Also be ready if some fishermen will offer you an island hopping to the nearest sand bar for 40 pesos per head. Too bad it’s already high tide when we got there but still we enjoyed the view and the clear water.

Tent pitching at Burot Beach

View from our rented nipa Hut - Burot Beach

Just a friendly reminder, there is a sari sari store in the area where you can buy some drinks and the like but it’s too pricey so better buy all your needs at Calatagan public market just after Sto. Domingo Church before heading to Burot beach. You may also bring your own food to cook, drinking water, ice box and grilling/cooking equipment to complete your beach bum experience.

Here’s the direction going to Burot Beach in 2 ways:

By private vehicle

1. From Manila, drive all the way to SLEX (South Luzon Express Way) until you reach the expressway after Alabang junction. Straight ahead and exit to Eton Greenfield. From here you will pass by Nuvali Sta. Rosa and Tagaytay City. Drive all the way to Nasugbu, Batangas until you reach a junction then take the right turn going to Lian. Drive straight ahead.

2. After passing the CADP (Central Azucarera Don Pedro) Sugar Refinery, take a left at the intersection (Landmarks: Shell and I-Gas Gasoline Stations). Drive ahead to reach Sto. Domingo Church then turn right. You will pass by a public market then turn left in M. Apacible Street. From here you can also ask some tricycle drivers or locals that will pass by for clear directions. But most likely you will see rough road on your right side that leads to a cemetery and an eco center. Drive straight until you reach a gate with uniformed security guard that will count the number of visitors.

gate going to Burot Beach Calatagan Batangas

By Commute

1. You can hunt for buses in Starmall Alabang en route Nasugbu Batangas that will pass by Calatagan. You can also found a Bus Terminal located along EDSA near MRT Taft Station (at the back of McDonald's and Sogo Hotel) bound for Calatagan. Travel time is approximately 3 to 4 hours. Don’t forget to ask the conductor to drop you off at Calatagan Market. Then, at Calatagan Market, you can hire a tricycle that will bring you to Burot beach for Php150.00 or Php60.00 per person.

Aside from boasting a cream fine sand and pristine waters, Burot Beach offers a gorgeous view of the sunset.

Burot Beach Sunset

Burot Beach Gorgeous Sunset

Emo mode haha - Burot Beach Gorgeous Sunset

Burot Beach Gorgeous Sunset

Burot beach is a newly discovered destination few years ago and is unfamiliar to many that made the place so relaxing and not that crowded. It has creamy white sand, crystal clear water, beautiful rock formations, beautiful sunset and lot of trees which provide shades and cool wind. It’s an ideal place for relaxation and perfect way to end summery days! So, if you're planning to visit a peaceful and relaxing beach destination in Batangas, make it to Burot beach, the soonest!

Burot Beach White Island

Starfish in Burot Beach

Burot Beach Calatagan Batangas

Burot Beach

Undeveloped Burot Beach

Burot Beach

Burot Beach Calatagan Batangas

View from Sandbar near Burot Beach

Burot Beach

Picturesque cloud formation - Burot Beach

Burot Beach

Exquisite Islands of Honda Bay Palawan

2013-05-21T00:56:00.000-07:00

Aside from boasting clean & green environment, great food and rich biodiversity, it’s always a mantra when visiting Palawan that your trip wouldn’t be complete if you weren’t able to see their astounding beaches and islands. And what I believe the best way to see how rich their marine biodiversity, is through an island hopping to their famous Honda Bay tour. As I have mentioned on my previous blog, we availed Sis Tiara’s package (La Tiara’sTour & Convention) for our Honday Bay Island tour which costs P1,140 inclusive of van service, entrance fees, permits, licensed tour guide, boat rental, snorkeling on Pambato reef and buffet picnic lunch in one of the islands. We scheduled the Honda Bay island hopping tour on our 3rd day as our final adventure in Palawan because we want to enjoy the white sand, beach waves and blue waters of Palawan before heading back Manila the following day.

Starfish Island - Honda Bay Palawan

According to locals, Honda Bay is originally called “HUNDA” by Palawenos, but when the Americans visited the island, they had a hard time pronouncing “Hunda” and since then on with the American’s slang diction, the place was now known for “Honda.” Honda Bay in Palawan is where a cluster of gorgeous islands and islets can be found. It is composed of different islands viz. Pandan Island, Luli Island (lulubog-lilitaw), Starfish Island, Snake Island, Cowrie Island and Pambato reef. During our tour, only 3 spots were included in our itinerary; Pandan Island, Starfish Island, and Pambato Reef where we last for hours enjoying snorkeling.

7:30 in the morning just exactly after our free breakfast at Metrosilog (just beside Corazon tourist Inn) when La Tiara’s service van fetched us at Corazon Tourist Inn. We stopped by an aqua shoes and snorkeling gear rentals as advised by our tour guide Ate Maricel. According to her it’s advisable to wear aqua shoes because at times you will encounter too spiky corals and stones. We rented aqua shoes and snorkeling gear for 150 each and as what we have experienced, you can eliminate renting aqua shoes because it is more enjoyable if your feet will feel the cold water and sand.

For our first stop, we docked at a holding area of Pambato reef where you can enjoy snorkeling. After dipping into water with our life vest on, our group was guided by a “kuya” who’s also the assistant of our boatman. He made sure that we’re safe under his supervision. He allowed us to hold a big float while gradually pulling us to the reef. We really enjoyed our snorkeling at Pambato reef as we saw different corals and fishes. It does so relaxing to float on cold water while enjoying the scenery above and underneath.

Pambato Reef - Honda Bay Palawan

Snorkeling at Pambato Reef palawan

Our group and our guide at Pambato Reef

Done snorkeling - Pambato Reef Palawan

Pambato Reef Palawan

After basking the Pambato reef, we rode again our hired boat and headed Starfish Island. This is where we took our buffet lunch by the beach. Starfish Island depicts its name from the existence of various starfish in the island. Aside from being peaceful, you will also enjoy the fine white sand and stunning view here because the island is surrounded by mountains. While Ate Maricel is preparing our lunch, we decided to walk by the beach and explore the island. We passed by a ruin which according to locals is a ruin of an old restaurant that actually contributes beauty to the island. One more thing that caught our attention is the presence of mangroves which is a sign of healthy ecosystem as it serves as a breeding ground for marine life. But where are the starfishes? Actually, we found few starfishes on the coastline near the cottages, but as we explored the outmost part of the island we awesomely found out where they rest. At the far end of the island we saw bunches of star fishes in different colors and sizes, even baby star fishes in white. So cool!

Starfish Island - Honda Bay Palawan

A restaurant ruin at Starfish Island - Honda Bay Palawan

Starfish Island - Honda Bay Palawan

Cottage at Starfish Island - Honda Bay Palawan

Restaurant Ruin at Starfish Island - Honda Bay Palawan

Starfish Island - Honda Bay Palawan

Ruin at Starfish Island - Honda Bay Palawan

Lovely starfishes - Starfish Island Honda Bay Palawan

Starfishes at Starfish Island - Honda Bay Palawan

Playing with the baby starfishes - Starfish Island Honda Bay Palawan

After playing with various starfishes, we walked back to our cottage for a hearty lunch buffet. It was indeed a feast; liempo, eggplant with bagoong, salted egg with tomatoes, grilled fish, crabs, squids, and mangoes. A hearty meal by the stunning beach is superb!

Mangoes - Picnic by the beach Starfish Island

Hearty Meal

Feast

And for our last stop, we docked in Pandan Island. Pandan trees are all over the island that’s why it is called as such. Though this island is quite crowded, this is the place where we really enjoyed snorkeling and feeding fishes. After wearing our snorkeling gears we were accompanied by a Kuya who also joined us during our Pambato reef experience and brought us to a big bamboo raft. You don’t have to go far just to see school of colorful fishes, just underneath the bamboo raft is a beautiful view of colorful fishes which is really a feast to the eye. Kuya also helped us took underwater pictures of different colorful fishes and corals. It was an amazing sight!

B4LIFE at Pandan Island Palawan

Here are some of our snorkeling shots at Pandan Island Palawan:

Snorkeling at Pandan Island Palawan

Lovely fishes - Snorkeling at Pandan Island Palawan

Enjoying Snorkeling at Pandan Island Palawan

Snorkeling at Pandan Island Palawan

Corals & Fishes - Snorkeling at Pandan Island Palawan

Honey enjoying Snorkeling at Pandan Island Palawan

my bff enjoying Snorkeling at Pandan Island Palawan

Snorkeling at Pandan Island Palawan

Fisheeeeeeeeees! - Snorkeling at Pandan Island Palawan

Snorkeling at Pandan Island Palawan

And here are the magnificent underwater shots of rich marine biodiversity in Pandan Island Palawan:

Beautiful coral - Underwater shots at Pandan Island Palawan

Cutesy little fishes - Underwater shots at Pandan Island Palawan

Coral - Underwater shots at Pandan Island Palawan

Underwater shots at Pandan Island Palawan

Corals - Underwater shots at Pandan Island Palawan

Beautiful Coral - Underwater shots at Pandan Island Palawan

Beautiful, isnt it?! In general, our Honda Bay island hopping tour was exceptional. We have discovered how beautiful Palawan is particularly their beaches and marine life. Indeed a beautiful place that makes you want to come back over and over. Palawan is truly a paradise!

Puerto Princesa Underground River - truly wonder of nature & Ugong Adventure side trip.

2013-05-10T01:49:00.001-07:00

One of the most amazing experience and tour we had last year 2012 was when we luckily visited the clean and beautiful province of Puerto Princesa, Palawan. It was a 4 days vacation which we really enjoyed and we made sure that every minute was well spent. For the City tour, Underground River tour and Honda Bay Island hopping, we availed La Tiara’s tour package since it’s what I believe has the cheapest offer among other hotel packages. We decided to take tour packages so we can enjoy every moment without being hassled for just arranging transportation, food and all the permits needed to the tour.

We spent our first day in Palawan by a City tour which turned out great as we were fed by rich culture and ample biodiversity of the province. For our second day, we’re scheduled to explore the very famous and Philippines’ pride Underground River and we’re all very excited. Our service van from La Tiara fetches us at Corazon Tourist Inn at exactly 7:30 am and it took us an hour and half to two hours from the City proper to Sabang port where several boats dock that will bring you to the jump off point to Underground River. Apropos, the local government of Palawan is limiting the visitors of the Underground River to 1000 tourists only and time of cave exploration depends on the schedule given when processing the permit. And since we were a bit early for our 1 pm scheduled boat ride, our tour guide Ate Malou offered us to do a short stopover at Ugong Rock Adventure.

These are the stunning views that we passed by on our way to Ugong Rock.

lush greenery Puerto Princesa Palawan

Rich biodiversity of Palawan

Huge trees

Picturesque landscape of Palawan's lush greenery

The word "Ugong" means the echoing sound a column (figure produced when stalagmite & stalactite meets) produce once you tap it. The Ugong rock adventure puerto princesa was a wonderful, unique experience; combination of trekking, climbing and cave spelunking. Imagine we survived passing by confined spaces and rocks; climbing/rappelling just to go up one spot on the cave. Our tour made easy because we were guided by the locals and they're all friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating. They make sure that we are all safe while doing the activity. When we reached the peak where you need to do Zipline, we are welcomed by the impressive view of natural rock formations. All our sweat subsided when we saw the breathtaking views and felt the freshness of the air. A wonderful once in a lifetime experience!

Ugong Rock Adventures Entrance

Safety First at Ugong Rock Adventures

Ugong Rock Adventures Palawan

Confines Spaces as part of Ugong Rock Adventures

Beautiful view at the top area of Ugong Rock Adventures

Zipline launch at Ugong Rock Adventures

Breathtaking views of lush greenery - Ugong Adventures Palawan

Ugong Rock Adventures

My bff's shot at the peak of Ugong Rock Adventures Palawan

After the adrenalin rush we experienced at Ugong Rock Adventures, we had a sumptuous buffet lunch by the beach which is included in the package tour costs P 1340. Some of the foods offered in buffet are tempura squash which is so delicious, adobong kangkong, grilled pork/fish, tinola and adobo.

Buffet by the beach Sabang jump off point to Underground river Palawan

Yummy meal Palawan

Enjoying our buffet lunch by the beach - Palawan

After a bit of exploring Sabang beach, our journey continued by a 30 minutes boat ride to the jump off point. Everyone perked out knowing that Palawan Underground River is now within our hand’s reach. And here are my shots of the beautiful view while on board a 20 minute boat ride to Puerto Princesa Underground River.

On our way to Puerto Princesa Underground river

"No man is an island" - view on our way to Puerto Princesa Underground River

Did you notice the side view of a man's face? - Boat ride to Puerto Princesa Underground River jump off point

Picturesque view of mountains on our way to Puerto Princesa Underground River

Underground River tour in Palawan was so organized by just allowing 1000 visitors per day to preserve its beauty. The whole tour took about 45 minutes but so enjoyable because of our boatman Kuya Jhun who delivers bunches of trivia and humorous segway. PPUR's only explorable area counts 1 km long only with the total of 8.2 km long that flows directly to the sea. The remaining stretch is only explorable by researchers and professional geographer that still conduct studies and amazing discoveries from this wonderful nature.

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Boats dock at Puerto Princesa Underground River jump off point

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Beautiful rock formation at Puerto Princesa Underground River Palawan

Puerto Princesa Underground River

B4LIFE at Puerto Princesa Underground River

We were welcomed by different limestone formations; adjoining stalactites and stalagmites. The feeling inside is so unexplainable. We were so mesmerized while staring at the formations. Some images that we saw include the bahay-kubo group composed of different fruits and vegetables, and the mesmerizing cathedral with formations of the holy family, Virgin Mary, San Roque and his dog, Jesus Christ's face, and guard. We're so delighted with the highest ceiling of the cave which stands more than 100 feet.

Puerto Princesa Underground River limestone

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Puerto Princesa Underground River Jesus Christ image

Puerto Princesa Underground River mushroom

Puerto Princesa Underground River Marilyn Monroe image

Puerto Princesa Underground River Highway 45

Puerto Princesa Underground River Lion

The cave was so enchanting and enthralling, feeling you wouldn't know how to describe at the end of the tour. You will then realized how magnificent God and Nature to mold these thousand year old rock formation into a majestic artworks. Nothing compares to the natural beauty of our country and Filipinos should preserve every bit of it. We are so blessed with a lot of different paradise waiting to be discovered and it’s up to us how we will show our care to nature, our care to our motherland. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River is truly an amazing creation of nature and God, one thing that we should be proud of, treasure of the world, wonder of Nature.

Puerto Princesa Underground River - our tour guide/boatman kuya Jhun

Puerto Princesa Underground River - One of the world's wonder of Nature

Puerto Princesa Palawan City Tour

2013-05-02T04:44:00.000-07:00

It was November 2012 when we luckily got the chance to explore the beautiful province of Palawan, thanks to Cebu Pacific’s 0 promo for sponsoring our budget airfare haha! Since we’re talking about budget travelling, everything on our expense list for a 4 days 3 nights vacation is on a budget. From our airfare to accommodation (CorazonTourist Inn) to our city and Honda Bay tour, it’s all within the 6,000 each bracket. At first I was thinking if we can do a “DIY” set-up for our City tour and Honda Bay Island hopping but realized that it will cause us more time and energy to consume on preparing just the permits needed for the tour and we needed to transfer from one transportation to another just to visit the points of destination in Palawan. At the end, we decided to take the cheapest package tour from La Tiara Travels and Conventions. I found out about La Tiara’s affordable Palawan tour package in femalenetwork (Gtalk) since every Sis at the forum is recommending Sis Tiara’s package and I believe so that Sis Tiara’s offer is cheaper than the hotels and resorts in Palawan . Sis Tiara is very approachable to deal with, she will give you list of affordable accommodation to choose from and she even gave us 200 discount per head for our City tour. The packages that we availed from La Tiara (group of 6 rate) are the Underground river tour with side trip to Ugong Rock Adventure for P1,340/pax, Honda Bay Island hopping for P1,140/pax and Palawan City tour for 400 each pax. Big savings, isn’t it?!

For other queries about Puerto Princesa Palawan tour as well as Coron and El Nido, you can contact Sis Tiara at her cellphone numbers +63917-8094509 and +63917 - 8414510

or you can add her up at her Facebook Page link below:
https://www.facebook.com/latiara.tours

Note: Globe and Smart signals are ok in Palawan while Sun Cell on the other hand shows no signal in some areas.

Since we arrived lunch time in Palawan, we still have time for Palawan City tour. La Tiara’s service van picked us up at Corazon Tourist Inn heading our first stop;

Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral with beautiful interiors and roof decor which was carved by Palawan prisoners.

Inside Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral - Palawan

Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral - Palawan

A few steps from the Immaculate Parish - is an old historical garrison named Plaza Cuartel. According to our tour guide Ate Maricel, it is the place where the infamous Palawan massacre was held during World War II. It is a restored ruin of an old garrison where Japanese soldiers burned 143 American prisoners of war inside a tunnel. Only ten prisoners survived to tell the story about what happened inside that tunnel and one of them is Donald Schloat which died last October 2010, but kept coming back to Palawan when he's still alive.

Plaza Cuartel

Plaza Cuartel Palawan

Since it’s along the way, we dropped by at a Pasalubong center called LRC Pasalubong where we bought cashew nuts, delicacies, t-shirts and pearl.

Next to our point of destination is the Palawan Wildlife Rescue & Conservation Center. Palawan is considered as one of the favorite tourists destination and it's good to know that the province has its own way of protecting biodiversity. The name depicts their real intention in saving, protecting and caring Palawan's endemic animals. It also serves as a habitat for crocodiles and my group had the chance to hold a baby croc. We also had a close encounter with ELLA, a Palawan Bearcat that's so heavy but playful. Staff also provides briefing regarding Crocodiles and how they do the caring for the animals.

with Ella the bearcat - Palawan

Baby Crocs of Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center

Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center

Crocodile bone at Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center

Next one is the Mitra Farm which is owned by former Senator Ramon Mitra. It is a spacious farm with breathtaking views of Puerto Princesa and overlooking view of Honda bay. Horseback riding and zipline are also offered here.

Beautiful view at Mitra's farm

Overlooking Honda Bay at Mitra's Farm Palawan

We end our city tour at Baker’s Hill. As depicted on its name, Bakers Hill is located in an uphill location in Puerto Princesa. You can see a beautiful home and garden in the area. Kids and Kids at heart will surely enjoy the colorful miniature park and play area with all those life-size Disney character and the like. Baker's hill is famous with their baked goodies like HOPIA wherein the entrance gate serves as the pasalubong area that smells really good. Their hopia tastes so good and not too sweet. If you're planning to take home their home made hopia, its shelf life usually last for 7 days.

Beautiful House at Baker's Hill Palawan

Baker's Hill Palawan

lifesize cartoon character at Baker's Hill Palawan

Our first day in Palawan turned out great as we were fed by rich culture, clean and green environment, interesting discovery, and getting to know more about this beautiful province. I so love Palawan! We will surely go back!

Friendly reminders before your Baguio Panagbenga trip

2013-04-22T20:14:00.000-07:00

No doubt, Philippines is very rich in culture and celebrating fiesta in different regions is one evidence how significant this kind of celebration is. Through festivals, people will know the value of diversity and been able to accept all customs and traditions not only domestically but all over the world. One of the best representations of a happy festival in the Philippines is the Panagbenga or Flower festival held annually in the province of Baguio. The Flower Festival adopted the local Kankana-ey name “Panagbenga” which literally means “A season of Blossoming, A Time for Flowering.” It is usually a one month celebration every February with different activities, while grand parade happens every last week of the love month.

We have been to Baguio several times, but we never got a chance to experience their very colorful festival not until this February 2013 that got us the break to witness Panagbenga. Undoubtedly, Baguio’s flower festival is really a wonderful and happy experience especially for first timers. However, having experienced all the thrill and fuss, there are several learning experience and tips I would like to share to future Panagbenga travelers that might help them with their future planning.

Panagbenga festival event tips

Book your Hotel as early as January

Panagbenga is a huge and famous celebration so expect that flock of people will go to Baguio to witness this colorful festival. Make sure that you have an advance reservation to your preferred hotel as most accommodation in Baguio becomes fully – booked as early as January.

Pick the hotel near the routes where the parade will pass by

Since we are not that choosy in hotel accommodation, we picked La Brea Inn as our choice of stay for 3 days in Baguio. We chose La Brea Inn since it has a very nice location near several food establishments (Army Navy, Mcdonalds, KFC, Chowking, Jollibee, ChicBoy) in Session road where the grand street parade and fluvial float pass by. Aside from being so affordable (1700/night/room for 4) they also have balcony window on 4^thand 5^th floor where you can view the parade. La brea inn also offers clean and complete room amenities with free wifi connection and great customer service.

La Brea Inn contact numbers : 0917-6087800 / 0923-2800395 (It's better to call them for fast response)

Book ahead your roundtrip tickets to Baguio

Expect flock of people on bus terminals especially after the festival so to avoid being a chance passenger, make sure you already have your reserved round trip tickets. The most famous bus line to Baguio is the Victory liner that offers you a hassle – free online reservation. Usually, they accept reservations a month before the Panagbenga festival schedule. You don’t need to go to their terminal just to buy your roundtrip tickets; all you just need is visit their reservation site: http://www.victoryliner.com/reservations/,your debit card or deposit the payment to Metrobank and they will send your reserved tickets via courier.

Travel light

When travelling, it is advisable to travel light so you will end up having lots of space for pasalubong, haha. Kidding aside, it is important when packing your things to have your list on what to bring so you will not forget anything you need. It is also helpful to ask the hotel if they will offer free use of towel and free toiletries to lessen your load.

Be an early bird during the parade

Both Panagbenga grand parades start at 8 in the morning and people already reserving good spots as early as 6 in the morning. As I have mentioned, you need to get a hotel with good location where the parade will pass by because it will lessen your time to walk from your preferred hotel to a good spot since all roads are closed during the parade. Since we checked in at La Brea Inn along Session road, it’s very convenient for us to go just downstairs and reserved a good spot in front of the hotel. During the street parade we reserved a sitting area around 6am while during the Grand flower float people were already taking a good spot as early as 5 in the morning.

Have your breakfast or bring some snacks

Since it’s a long wait, it is important to have your breakfast first so you have enough energy throughout the parade. Alternatively, you can bring your own snack or baon that you can eat while waiting for the parade. There are also lots of vendors selling street foods everywhere including sack or paper that can be your sit cover on your reserved area.

Jam-packed food establishments

You must expect that after the parade everyone is rooting to have a good lunch at restaurants & fast food chain. As much as possible eat your lunch early or quite late as food stalls in SM Baguio and Session road are all full.

Expect long walks and heavy traffic

Since all roads are closed during and after the parade, be prepared to walk for some kilometers either on going to SM or nearby tourist spots. You must also bring with you some patience as roads are full with vehicles that cause heavy traffic.

Don’t stay late at the Mansion and other tourists spots.

If ever having a side trip after the parade, make sure that you won’t stay late because you will have difficulties in getting public transportation as all FX services are full with passengers. Better yet rent the FX for a two-way ride with an additional charges.

Panagbenga festival is one of a kind flower festival you shouldn’t miss. You will be amazed on how locals dedicated themselves in making beautiful costumes and energetic dance moves. Your eyes will feast on different colorful costumes of every participant that’s really worth witnessing. The Grand Floral Parade was really refreshing and colorful. It was well attended, and included dignitaries such as Mayor, foreign delegations from Korea, Canada, Japan and local artists. (Bong Revilla & Indio cast; Robin Padilla & Kailangan Ko'y Ikaw Cast, Daniel Matsunaga, Shamcey Supsup, and Gary Valeciano. It’s really worth seeing festival in Baguio City, so colorful, so enjoyable and so amazing