QRIOUSKITTY

Sen. Miriam in swimsuit

2012-04-22T07:53:00.000+08:00

As I tried to relax after long hours of reading I switched on the tv and and to my astonishment I saw Sen. Miriam Santiago in a bikini. Wow!

She will be featured in the next episode of Powerhouse (yes, not Penthouse.. lol) on GMA News TV Channel 11 this Tuesday, April 24 at 8:00PM. A MUST SEE!

What a stress buster!

Poignant Potipot

2012-04-04T03:16:00.000+08:00

Potipot Island

This quick island getaway trip has been on my mind for quite sometime. My need for a relaxing vacation before the Holy week is really gnawing at me so as soon as the sky cleared up from the rain, off we went. For some of you who just needs to let off some stress but feeling adventurous at the same time, this is one place I would recommend. The place is just a few hours away from Manila.

Here's to let you know how our trip to Potipot island was.

Potipot Island Getaway (March 31-April 2, 2012)

Saturday, March 31, 2012
TIME	PARTICULARS	REMARKS
5:30AM - 9:00 AM	Departure from Antipolo to Subic via car	>NLEX Toll fee: P45.00 (San Fernando Exit) >SCTEX Toll fee: P112.00 (Dinalupihan Entry)
9:00AM - 9:30AM	Stop Over at Subic (SBMA)	>Engine & Battery Check, Restroom and Snacks
10:00AM - 12:00NN	Exit SBMA (via Kalakalan Gate) go straight to Castillejos until San Narciso Junction. Turn right at the juction to enter town proper and pass by towns San Felipe, Cabangan & Iba	>Photo ops of scenery, lahar riversand mountain ranges >Watch DVD
12:00NN - 12:30PM	Stop over at Iba	> Lunch at Jollibee
12:30PM - 2:00PM	Exit Iba then pass by towns of Masinloc & Candelaria where you'll see the signs of Dawal Beach Resort along the national road. Arrival at Dawal	>Upon arrival confirm reservation for the next day and arrange boat transfer to Potipot Island (P400/boat/6pax)
2:00PM - 2:10PM	Boat ride to Potipot Island	>Waterproof everything
2:10PM - 2:30PM	Set up Camp
2:30PM - 4:30PM	Island activities	>Snorkeling >Photo Ops >Tour the whole island (for 20 mins)
4:30PM - 5:30PM	Cook dinner	Pre-cooked meals are more convenient. Don't forget to bring plenty of drinking water
5:30PM - 9:00PM	Dinner	Night socials, bonfire
9:00PM	Lights out	Secure all things inside the tent before going to dreamland

Sunday, April 01, 2012
TIME	PARTICULARS	REMARKS
6:30AM - 7:30AM	Breakfast
7:30AM - 10:00AM	Island Activities	>Snorkeling >Photo Ops at the famous driftwood >Last tour of the whole island (for 20 mins) >Sunbathing
10:00AM - 11:00AM	Break camp. Boat Transfer to Dawal resort
11:00AM - 12:00NN	Check in at Dawal resort	Complete the payment for the reservations (P1,600/2pax) and go for lunch.
12:00NN - 3:00PM	Siesta	ZZzzzzz
3:00PM - 6:00PM	Resort activities	Free: Pool, Beach Volleyball court With pay: Billiards, Table tennis, Darts, massage
6:00PM - 7:00PM	Dinner at the restaurant	Set meal: P120-160/pax Ala carte: P200+

Monday, April 02, 2012
TIME	PARTICULARS	REMARKS
7:00AM - 8:00AM	Breakfast	>Cook your own
8:00AM - 9:00AM	Swimming pool
9:00AM - 10:00AM	Prep for Departure	>Check out at Dawal Beach Resort
10:00AM - 1:00PM	Road trip to SBMA	Pasalubong: mangga along the road (P50/kilo)
1:00PM - 4:00PM	Lunch and Side trip at SBMA	>Duty Free shopping @ Royal
4:00PM - 7:00PM	Arrival at Manila	Home sweet home

POTIPOT EXPENSES
Gas: P2,000 - Full tank
Accomodation (Dawal): P1,600/2pax
Food
Island; P1,000/2pax
Resort: P160/meal
Road: P100/pax (Jollibee)
Boat Transfer: P400/boat/6pax
Overnight fee at Potipot: P300/pax
Pasalubong:
Mangga: P100/2kilos
Duty free shopping; P1,500 (mostly chocolates)

CONTACTS:
Dawal Beach Resort & Restaurant
Bo. Uacon, Candelaria, Zambales
Mobile nos:
0919-5730952
0920-6651577
0916-7231108
www.dawal.com.ph
reservations@dawal.com.ph

Pictures from the trip. Enjoy!

Moonlit sky with shooting star

Shoreline enveloped with moonlight

Night view of the resorts from Potipot island

View behind our camping area

Look who just flew in!

Centralized "ihawan"

The other side of the island

The Campsite

Beach front

Cam whoring with my beau

Survivor Potipot (Celebrity double???)

Another large space behind our campsite

Right side view of the beach front

The Famous Driftwood

Back view of the campsite

View of the Potipot island from Dawal resort

Left side view of the beach front

Sunny smile!

Dawal Beach Resort

Summer Pool Workout

2012-03-12T23:50:00.000+08:00

It's another hot summer day and I'm looking for a place to break a sweat without the risk of a heat stroke. Running is definitely out of the question but I really need to burn those extra calories. The local village swimming pool is off limits (some party is being held there at the moment) so Rey suggested we head to Philippine Sports Complex (PhilSports Complex, formerly known as Ultra) and do our summer pool workout there.

I developed a knack for swimming way back in college. It was my last year in the university and I still need to finish 3 more units of P.E. class. Choosing between volleyball and swimming, I chose the latter. I love water and being a Pisces, it hurts my ego knowing I could not even go beyond the shore to enjoy the water without the fear of drowning. It's very embarrassing at my age back then because everyone in the family practically moves like a mermaid whenever they get near any body of water and I'm... well I look like a drowning kitty next to them, so to say. I earnestly learned any lesson there has to be learned and practiced during every spare time I had. After graduating that semester, I never looked at the water the same way again and the rest was history.

Outrageous Orange Monster!

Because of my love for water and the sport, I began teaching others for free, my boyfriend being one of them and now my greatest opponent. A good student always surpasses his master's skills so I'm OK with that. That would only mean I'm a good teacher, yeah? :)

If you really love to swim but can't get out of the city because of work or because you are really short on budget, there are many public pools around Manila where you can splash around. (I will mention a list of public pools on separate post) Here at Ultra Pool, entrance fee is only PhP 60.00. They are closed on Mondays for cleaning. Best days to swim is every Tuesday (cleanest day) and Sunday where there are only few swimmers to bump to.

Let's always stay fit and healthy, fabulous and happy! Swim away those calories!

Ultra Pool

University of Life / Philippine Sports Commission - Ultra Pool

Augustin 1 Building, Meralco Ave., Pasig City

(02) 635-0102

Pool Details

Amenities: Showers, Locker Rooms

Activities Offered: Lap Swimming

Admission/Rates: Visitors (adult): PHP 60 (as of March 2012)

Additional Scheduling Information: Except for holidays and special events, hours are 8 A.M. - 5 P.M. Tuesday through Sunday, with a break from noon to 1 P.M.

Diving plank

Pool Specifications

Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor

Pool Length: 50 Meters

Pool Width: 20 Meters

Pool Depth: 4-8 feet

Lanes: 10

Heated/Unheated: Unheated

Chlorine-Free: Yes

Jumbling Japonica

2012-03-10T20:06:00.002+08:00

ramp modeling along H.V. Dela Costa Street (photo c/o Joy)

Weekly habit with the girls is at Japonica this time to celebrate my dear friend Harriet's upcoming birthday. I suggested the place to them early this week because I was really craving for something Japanese.

Having made the reservation, we also decided to put a little spice on the occasion and really dressed up for it, Asian style. Yeah! Ain't that cute! If not for our jobs, we would have tried cosplaying instead. lol

Mini Sukiyaki Nabe

Japonica is a nice, quiet Japanese restaurant for casual dining. It has a grand view of the busy H.V. Dela Costa Street. Towering condo and commercial buildings provide shade from any direct sunlight in the place thus the reason why there are no blinds or tints for its wide glass windows. Not the usual place to hang-out though (yes, no music) but very conducive for mealtime. It is bright, clean and free of distractions.

Yes, no distractions. Hay. Mr. Swag hunting was cancelled for the time being. No prospects sighted.

Kani Salad

For the appetizers, we ordered Gyoza, California Maki and Kani Salad. I enjoyed their Gyoza even without the sauce.

For entree, the choices are Mini Sukiyaki Nabe (Japanese beef hot pot), Ebi Tempura Lunch Set (fried breaded-shrimps and Hamburger Steak & Ebi Fry Lunch set. The Sukiyaki dish was good. All ingredients were blended well to my liking. I even ate the whole pot with no rice. Like what Harriet said, it deserves a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating.

Gyoza

No desserts were ordered. We decided to transfer to our cafe tambayan and had our desserts there.

Hamburger Steak & Ebi Fry Lunch Set

Rating:

Ambiance: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Food: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Japonica Japanese Cafe and Kitchen

2nd Level, Liberty Plaza, H.V. Dela Costa cor. Valero St.,

Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines

(+63 2) 884-2148

Movie Review: The Devil Inside

2012-03-04T22:55:00.000+08:00

I saw its trailer 2 weeks ago and looked very promising. When I finally saw it today, it was only fairly ok. I like the realistic way of their acting but the fake, hand shakes of the cameraman/actor is displeasing to the senses. The movie is clearly a low-budgeted one but I am awed by its effects. The contortionist actress, Pixie Le Knot, portrayed her role really well as a possesed woman. Like Clover field and Blair Witch movies, the movie was 'bitin'.

"Connect the cuts, connect the cuts, connect the cuts..."

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Suddenly Salsa

2012-03-04T11:47:00.002+08:00

A planned reunion of fellow researchers commenced at last! Former colleagues decided to meet up in Greenbelt and set up a video chat with Froi, who now lives in New Jersey. Everyone present seems so excited to see each other. I was hoping to take a nap before going to the meeting place but sleep seems impossible already. I was too giddy. And there they were, the same 'ol group, with few pounds taken off from them. Everyone looked slimmer than the last time I saw them. Mommy Cheng, you really surprised me. I love the legs! Hahaha. Yvette, with still the same glamarosa aura I like. Kelly, my lovely Mrs. Smith (yes, I agree, for me you are no Nina Fuentes but an Angelina). Vin, my fellow GERD brother, why must this happen to us! Ian, I still can't believe how you've maintain that body all these years. It's all those marathons' fault noh? Jigs, you're late but that's fine, still as good looking as ever, I forgive you. Hahaha.

Everyone is healthy, happy and hungry. Yes, I'd say they all looked great and I'm just glad we had this reunion this year, 2012, before the end of the world. Anyway, going back to the reunion...never-ending and untold stories were told; crazy antics were revived; updates on current life were revealed. Sadly, some were not able to make it but that's fine, they have to make it up next time (you know who you are, hmp!). Besides, the fun must continue.

The group first decided to go to Glorietta 5 and see where we can set up a laptop. After what seemed like 30 mins of strolling around, looking for a suitable place to eat and hang out, we came to a decision to just go and find some diner along Makati Ave, near A.Venue and landed at Chihuahua Mexican Grill and Margarita Bar.

Hot Sauce Collection

Sarap ng Kanin-Baboy

It's a nice and cozy typical Mexican diner of some sort so we just planned to have our stomachs filled and change to another place to chill and have some booze. We ordered huge servings of burritos and taco salads. They also have this huge collection of hot sauces from tabasco to hot insane ones. I haven't tried their margarita though. Too bad I can't take in any spicy food or alcoholic drinks anymore due to my GERD, right Vin?

Mirror mirror on the ball

Upon entering the diner, I noticed the big vacant area inside. I thought at first that maybe this place provides jamming sessions for bands who'd like to play their thing but then again there were no instruments there. At 11:00 pm, much to our surprise, the place was transformed into a mini dancing hall and we were all asked by Reana, the event host, to join Salsa 101.

Focus!

I have always loved dancing but never learned Salsa. Without hesitation, I stood up and found myself a place for the tutorial. Together with my friends, we breezed the dance floor and just let our feet do the talking this time. It was a great night! Everybody was enjoying the lessons. I immediately got into the groove and danced the night away.

Midshift

Dancing the night away

After the lessons, the real Salsa dancing took place. A lot of salseros, (both male and female; Pinoy and foreigners) were there and danced like no one was watching. Everyone seems to have a world of their own on the dance floor. I so envy them. I miss dancing like that, like sweat is blending with your emotions as you sway away to the beat of the music. Its sooo hot and sexy. It's a must see and FEEL event! Let me just practice some more and I shall return.

Chihuahua Mexican Grill and Margarita Bar

7838 Makati Avenue, Makati (Infront of A.Venue)
Schedule of Salsa Events: Every Saturday
10:30 PM - 10:45 PM Salsa Lessons
10:45 PM - 4:00 AM Anything-goes Salsa

Ratings
Food: 3 out of 5 stars
Event: 5 out of 5 stars

P.S. Thank you Vin for the photos and Jigs for the title

Waxing Season

2012-03-03T13:22:00.002+08:00

Summer is officially here and it's waxing season. I'm sure everyone is busy looking for the best beach tour bargain this March, my birthday month. So together with that, bikini shopping and waxing comes next. Summer = less clothes + more skin exposure. Everybody wants to look best in their sexy swimsuits so you don't want to be caught dead wearing any outfit with hairs poking out, right? It's just too appalling if someone sees you like that so I went to my regular appointment just to be ready for any unexpected trip to any body of water.

Cubicle at SM Marikina, my fave branch

As I made my visit with Lay Bare recently, the only waxing salon I trust btw, I remembered my first Brazilian wax experience. It was more than a year ago when an idea struck me together with my Nursing classmates: "How does it feel to be bare down there again like a small girl?" Hehehe. Curiousity strikes again! They made me guinea pig it. I have no problems with that so I conditioned my mind by reading articles about Brazilian wax just to ease up my tension. Keep in mind that there are no room for shyness and embarrassment here, their personnel is very professional. My classmates had to wait outside the reception area, anticipating any screams that I would be making, while I lay bare on a salon bed. Prior to that I took 2 tablets of ibuprofen to counter any discomfort I may feel during the procedure. Preparations were done but nothing really could prepare you until you've had the taste of the excruciating pain of hairs being pulled out from the most sensitive skin area of your body.

Holy Mother of God! Torture! I'm not going to sugar-coat my reaction. It's best that you know this early on. First timers, you really have to deal with the pain. It's a given fact. The waxed area will be red, puffy and stinging like hell. No pain, no beauty...er gain, whatever. Think of it as part of an initiation rite needed for making yourself more beautiful down there. Its okay, everyone experienced that. But once you get past the first wax, you'll eventually learn to tolerate the pain and feel better.

And now on the positive side, after the stingy feeling fades away, you'll feel naked. Its breezy, clean, smooth, and light, feeling like a little girl again. Confidence level increases as well. That's the secret of models having their photos taken wearing an itsy-bitsy-tiny-winy bikini. Make yourself a model too! You're sexy and you know it!

Happy summer waxing!

Dessert: KFC's Bananapple pie

2012-03-02T01:53:00.000+08:00

I'm not much of a sweet-tooth but when Michael treated Kathleen and I for desserts at KFC, who could ever refuse. KFC's Bananaaple pie has proved to be really yummy. Not too sweet, light but not too bland. Just right for my palate. Looks like I'll be looking forward to eating my desserts next time I eat here. And its all your fault, Michael. Pfft.

Salivating Michael

Mrs. Capt. Kathleen America

Within 30 mins, the whole store was filled immediately with customers. I remembered that today is the Jose and Wally Concert at Araneta which would explain the sudden gush of people in the area. Too bad I was not able to get myself a ticket. It must have been very entertaining. :)

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

From Russia with Love

2012-02-26T20:22:00.001+08:00

BEPHOCTb KAYECTBY Chocolate - 65% Kakao

We celebrated valentines late this year due to so much work and all, but like they always say: "It's better late than never".

I got these chocolates from Rey, along with some flowers (red roses, no photo). Compliments from Vladivostok Air.

Верность качеству Chocolate. Even if I don't know how to pronounce that, I won't forget the richness of its taste and has 65% Kakao (Cacao). Wait til you taste the 75%, 85%, or even 99% versions. Hmm, curious? Yes, me too. Next time, I'll let you know if there is any difference.

Movie Review: Ghost Rider - Spirit of Vengeance

2012-02-25T22:15:00.000+08:00

Been a long time since I did a review on movies so I might get a little rusty on this. Last night we saw this movie. Ghost Rider, Spirit of Vengeance. The plot was unexpected of the character from the movie. Who knew the devil in him turns out to be the abducted angel from heaven (oops, sorry for the spoilers).

Anyway, It was kinda refreshing. Cinematography is cool for an amateur critic like me. The quality is crisp. Though I'm not too sure about the movie and how it somehow looked like a low-budgeted film. Its advertisement was not as grand as its previous movie.

What I do not like about the movie really was the filming style. Damn, but those dudes with the cameras are very annoying, they should be banned from holding one. How can you move a camera like that and not feel like vomiting after watching it. Audience like it better when its steady, well at least I do. Ok, yeah I know it creates a really good scene when you add some roughness in the filming style, but for me it's only activating my motion sickness. *puke*

Over all I'd give it a 3 out of 5 stars. Nicolas Cage is still the man. :)

I love New Bombay!

2012-02-24T12:02:00.000+08:00

I was ever curious of this restaurant just beside 7-11 store near our offices. Faye recommended we have our lunch here and so we did. I like the ambiance, ever authentic Indian atmosphere. Luckily, it doesn't smell like a typical Indian place (hehehe... if you know what I mean). Wooden chairs and tables were carved and designed meticulously by some artist. Drapes hung the ceiling to give it an Indian feel. The owner is also authentic... yes, that he is.

Error in the orientation :)

Baked prawns

Today is the first Friday of the Lenten season so we opted for a vegetarian/fish meal. For starters, we ordered some spicy naan and samosa (empanada with beans & curry inside). For main entree we ordered fish curry, baked prawns, and chili curry rice topped with peas and chopped string beans.

As for the drinks, my lunch buddies just had softdrinks to neutralize the spiciness of the dishes. Not me. Because of my GERD, I had to order a mango lassi, an Indian drink, sort-of like a mango shake but more delicious. I would highly recommend that drink. Got to learn how that was made.

Samosa and naan

All yellow! Go People Power!

And onto our ever Mr-Swag-hunting. Yes, it was now my turn to be played at. We've been eyeing some guys across the table. Good looking as they were, we decided to just let them be. They might be in the middle of a business lunch meeting for all we know.

Overall rating is 4 out of 5 stars. Some of the ones in the menu we ordered were not available. Yes, they have to do something about their availability issues. But it was immediately forgotten when we began emptying the plates. The dishes were simply delicious.

I love Bonchon!

2012-02-15T17:30:00.000+08:00

Microbabes decided to have a regular lunch habit. Every week we would tweet ... I mean, meet (or both) to have a lunch somewhere near our offices. Or if time permits, we would go to Ayala triangle and check out some restos there.

Our first lunch date this 2012 happened at Bonchon, Ayala Triangle Branch. First time I tried their chicken and it was superb. No need for gravy, their breading is already tasteful. It has two flavors: Soy Garlic & Spicy. We ordered the 12 pcs combo (mixed thighs, drumstick and wings) or whatever you call it and ate to our heart's content.

at Paseo de Roxas Underpass

Mr. Swag: approved

Along the course, Mr. Swag hunting is in progress. One man targeted. Harriet's Bonchon hubby. In fairness, he's a good catch. Oh look...no ring on both hands? Hahaha.

And an hour lunch turned out to be two when heavy rains began showering over Makati. We had to wait for the rain to stop before returning. Faye is overbreak already but who's to blame her... lunch was fun. Until next time! =)

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Twitter

2012-01-17T01:22:00.000+08:00

It was only recently when I found out that my Microbabes girls all work in Makati and we are practically neighbors at that. Small world! If not for that twitter thing (mind you, I'm not much of a fan of social media stuff) and my brother Jay, I would not have gotten in touch with them this frequently. I mean really, the pressure! After what seemed like months of encouragement, I gave in, at last. And the rest was history. We constantly exchange views and messages real time as if the other was just sitting right next to me.

Good thing about twitter is that you get to read about almost anything you want, provided they also have twitter accounts of course. I thought this will be more complicated than Facebook but it turns out to be the opposite. After weeks of learning the ropes, I got the most out of my twittering. I'm like absorbing so much information in such a short time on different topics from different people. I think I'm going to like this twitter a lot.

Calm Calaguas

2010-06-14T11:59:00.000+08:00

Halabang Baybay

Travel time again together with Rey's colleagues. I love the way they plan their travel, so carefree yet so organized (see Anawangin post). We didn't travel via bus this time and instead rented a van to take us there. I just shelled out some amounts of cash to pay for the whole trip and everything was taken cared of. Bring some extras for emergencies ,rule of the thumb, as I don't want to experience what happened to me during my previous Bohol trip. Na-ah!

Paracale Seaport

Calaguas Island (Halabang Baybay)
Vinzons, Camarines Norte

Itinerary c/o Bibing

Macho men of LTP upon arrival at the beach

DAY 0 (10-June-10 Thursday)
1900H - ETD Paracale via CUBAO

Day 1 (11-June-10 Friday)
0500H - ETA Paracale
breakfast, market
0800H - ETD Maculabo (by boat)

Lunch in progress

0900H - ETA Maculabo
beach bumming, explore, photo ops, hill trekking, lunch
1330H - ETD Maculabo to Mahabang Buhangin, Tinaga Island, Calaguas (by boat)
1430H - ETA Calaguas Island
Set camp, explore, beach, beach, beach, dinner
2030H - Socials, Bonfire, Lights off

Day 2 - (12-June-10 Saturday)

0700H - WakeUp Call, Breakfast
beach, beach, beach
1130H - Lunch / wash-up / break camp
1330H - ETD Calaguas to Cumalasag Island (by boat)
explore, photo ops
1500H - ETD Paracale
1600H - ETA Paracale / wash-up
1800H - Dinner / ETD Manila
(OPTION: BAGASBAS beach for surfing activities then lunch or Cam Sur, a 2.5-hours drive from Paracale)

DAY 3 (13-June-10 Sunday)
Manila - HOME SWEET HOME

ESTIMATED EXPENSES

MNL-Paracale-MNL (via Superlines aircon bus in cubao) - 485*2 - 970
boat 4500/15pax - 300 (depending on the confirmed participants)
food - 300
camping fee - 150

1720php + pocket money =)

THINGS TO BRING:

* tent (rain proof)
* footgear: rubber slippers, beach sandals
* wide brim- hat
* sunglasses
* sleeping bags
* Insect repellant and or soap with critonella to ward of mosquitoes
* sunscreen, sunblock, sun tan.
* Flashlights / headlamps
* first aid kit / medicines
* Camera with enough battery and memory cards
* cellphone (warning: signal can still be patchy at times

Play volleyball, sunbathing or just plain cam whoring

* a waterproof pouch and bag to store your valuables in
* moist towelettes
* Tissue Paper
* kikay kit
* Huge garbage bag to protect your gear while on the boat, it's better to
water proof your things...
* waterproof jacket or raincoat
* snorkeling gadgets
* utensils... (be earth freindly, no to disposables, EVER!)
* stove / cookset (optional)
* BOOZE!

Crystal clear sea water

Beach front

My second camping trip was a great experience. It was a long boat ride from Paracale Port. Luckily, my motion sickness were held at bay. It was the longest hour ride I've been. Everyone was getting a little restless already and hoped that we'd arrive there sooner to avoid the scorching heat of the sun as it reaches its highest point at noon.

Gorgeous fine sand

As soon as the beaches were on sight, everyone was ecstatic. Much more when we arrived at Halabang Baybay (Long Beach), the longest stretch of fine beach among its group of islands. I was deeply fascinated with the place. Some would say Boracay might lave looked like this in its earlier times. Well, I've never been to Boracay so I could not compare. But of all the beaches, Calaguas is the most exquisite, unspoiled island I've ever been to. Its sparkling turquoise-like waters are so clear, for a minute you'd think you're in a swimming pool.

Summer nights here are really lovely. You only have the sea of stars to light up the whole place (apart from rays coming from a nearby ship hundred miles from the shore). When you look up, its like the whole universe has descended. The stars are so hypnotic it can mesmerize you up to no end. Those twinkling heavenly bodies will also find its way in the water when you swim at night. When you create a swirl in the water, you'll see lights dancing around your hand, its like magic. Also you can skinny deep for all you want and no one would really care. Its like a paradise you've never dreamed of.

Suvivor Calaguas... oh yeah!

View from campsite

There are no resorts here but there's this one concrete house with one restroom (you're free to use it). No more digging up of pit somewhere to do your thing. Just make sure you maintain the cleanliness in the area. The caretaker of the place also has a mini sari sari store where you can buy junk foods and sodas. But I suggest you bring your own since prices here can soar way way up. There's a poso or water pump for all your kitchen and bathing needs. A mystical, untouched place, I would say it's the best place to camp if you want to escape the city and just laze in the sun.

Wonderful Anawangin

2009-05-04T04:09:00.000+08:00

Anawangin Cove

Camping time! All gears ready for another outdoor adventure. Again among the many firsts, time to rough it out in the wild this time. First time I'd go on a trip without the luxury and convenience of a hotel. Rey and I chose to spend his birthday at Anawangin Cove in Zambales by camping out together with his colleagues from Lufthansa Technik Phils, who hosted the trip. I have always been interested in meeting new people and this group was very accommodating.

Matanglawing Rey

Quite the anxious one, since I had no experience on camping, I had no idea what to bring. I tried asking around about what things to get. My boyfriend, a seasonal hiker, helped me on my essentials. Below is the IT we followed for the trip , breakdown of fees and what-to-bring list (c/o Bibing)

ANAWANGIN COVE
San Antonio, Zambales

DAY 1, MAY 1, 2009

Pundakit shore

7:30AM – Assembly at Victory Liner Terminal, Pasay City
8:00AM – Depart for Olongapo
12:00NN– Arrive in Olongapo, (Lunch at stopovers), Last minute shopping at Gapo Market
1:00PM – Depart for San Antonio
2:00PM – Arrive in San Antonio town proper, Buy drinking water, coal
2:30PM – Boat ride to Anawangin
3:00PM – Arrive at Anawangin, Pitch tents

Tricycle ride going to Pundakit

4:00PM onwards – Leisure time

DAY 2, MAY 2
Do whatever you want

DAY 3, MAY 3
6:00AM – Wake up call
6:30AM – Breakcamp
7:00AM – Depart for Capones Island
8:00AM – Arrive at Capones, Visit the lighthouse
9:30AM – Depart for Pundakit
10:00AM – Arrive at Pundakit, Breakfast, Wash up at Manong Alfring’s house
11:30AM – Depart for Olongapo
12:30PM – ETA Olongapo, Lunch at Chowking
2:00PM – ETD Manila via Victory Liner
6:00PM – ETA Manila

BUDGET
More or less P250 (not so sure) – Bus Fare from Pasay to San Antonio and vice versa
More or less P1000 – one boat rental to and from Pundakit (Round trip); Optional: sidetrip to Capones Island P1,200 per boat, 3 to 4 pax per boat)
P20 – trike fare from San Antonio to Pundakit

Setting tents at the camp site

More or less P1,500 with Chowking! :)

WHAT TO BRING
1. Food for 3 days and 2 nights – chip-in P200/pax
2. Tent, Burner/Stove at Lamp
3. Snorkeling stuff
4. Swimwear
5. BOOZE!

It was that simple. At P1,500, you get to have fun in the wild. At the cove, we stayed at the campsite on the left (facing Anawangin). Much cooler here than on the left side because of the pine trees. For those who are worried about bathroom facilities, the campsites have restrooms. But the one on our side is better. They have motor pumps and provide large drums that are always filled with water.

Pine trees: a good shade from the scorching sunlight at midday.

Wet campers

Dry river bed found in the woods

Lighthouse at Capones Island

Unfortunately, I was not able to buy cake for my dearest (for fear that the icing will just melt), an earnest request. Sorry about that sweetie.

Bountiful Bohol

2008-10-13T23:45:00.000+08:00

Yes, first trip outside Luzon with same travel buddies (Jana, Mae and Rey) plus Rey's bro and my former classmate, Don. As soon as we were able to to get a promo ticket from Cebu Pac for Bohol, we immediately got into our planning mode and searched for nice tour packages. Jana got hold of Mang Leonard, our driver-cum-tour guide, and gave us a good bargain. Yey!
It was also my first time to ride a plane. One being afraid of heights, I was quite the hesitant passenger but my need to overcome the fear is greater so flight was successful. What was not okay though was that time during the flight when I was robbed off my pocket money worth P6,000.00 in my very own checked-in baggage. Being a first-time flight traveler, I placed all my valuables inside that bag. I had so much trust in them and their service but sadly, the cargo department was not as secure as I imagined it should be. I mean, those were their customer's baggage, for God's sake! I can't believe I've been had! Sh*t!

NAIA-Tagbilaran Airport via cebu Pacific

Lessons learned: Never put any valuables inside the baggage that you plan to check in and have a separate travel pouch (one you can carry with you) for this. For double protection, use padlock to further secure your things. That being said, it still doesn't change the fact that I have no more money left for the trip (tip: best to have with you your credit card at times like this). Good thing Rey had extras and I was saved. Hay!

Upon arrival at Tagbilaran Airport, we were welcomed by Mang Leonardo and boarded his tour van. It cost us PhP 2,500 (PhP 500/head) to drive us around Bohol. First stop is the ever famous Chocolate hills wherein you just need to pay the entrance fee (Php 15) and proceed to its viewing deck to see the hills. There at the deck you will also find photographers looking for potential tourists interested to have their jump shot photos taken. But we settled for a jump shot using one of our cameras instead. (budget trip, remember?)

(Left) Man-made Forest. (Right) Jump shot at Chocolate Hills

Still feeling low, we headed next to the Man-made forest. Its lush green, towering trees lifted my spirit a little bit. I really like the feeling of being one with nature. We stayed for about 30 mins for photo ops then proceeded to the Butterfly farm (entrance fee = PhP 15).

Rey, Don & I making kulit to the sleeping tarsiers

Next stop is the dreaded Hanging bridge, where I faced my fear of heights. After the heart-stopping walk across the bridge, I bought some items from the novelty shop, did our photo ops then proceeded to where the tarsiers were.
Donations at the sanctuary are welcome (We paid PhP 50/pax). Nocturnal beings as they are, they don't have much to say when we posed for pics... hehehe.

(Top-Left) Hanging Bridge, (Top-Right) Floating Restaurant, (Bottom) Rondalla and Dance performance

Stomachs growling, we knew it was time to eat. We went to Loboc River next to have our lunch at the Floating Restaurant. At PhP 300, you can have the luxury of cruising down the river while having a hearty lunch, buffet style. At the end of the boat ride, we get to watch a rondalla performance from a youth group and were serenaded for approximately 20 mins before we head back to the port.

Monument of the Blood Compact

Feeling a bit sleepy because of the seratonin-rush after a meal, we went next to Baclayon Church, situated along the bay area. Who would have thought that the whole church was made of corals... simply amazing! Even the old museum beside it was like centuries old already. Some artifacts were from the 16th century, maybe even during the time when the Blood Compact or Sandugo happened. Entrance fee is PhP 35.00.
Speaking of Blood Compact, that was our next stop. The monument of the Blood Compact was where Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and Datu Sikatuna sealed their friendship of enslaving the Filipinos? hehehe. Kidding aside, this was our country's first treaty of friendship to the Spaniards... 400 years of friendship? hay.

The rented treehouse

Sea side dinner at the restaurant

Last stop of the day is at Panglao Island. We checked in at Dumaluan Resort and rented a treehouse for PhP 1500/ overnight. It was a refreshing change from the usual room rent with a/c. The sea breeze is just so inviting, such a waste if we were to stay in a room.
Nice service and cozy surroundings., what more can you ask for. After unpacking, we had our dinner at the restaurant. Enjoying the night cool breeze, we went on with the night socials and hit the sack after that. Such a long tiring day.

Sunrise at Panglao Island

Day 2 was all adventure, we got hold of the Balicasag tour package from one of the locals. Early morning, around 6am, we took off for a 2-hour boat ride from Panglao island to Balicasag.
Along the way, we passed by some group of dolphins flirting with us... yeah well playing is more like it, as if they we're impressing us with their jumps. We went on to chase after them like a game of tag. Much to our surprise, hours went by, we almost forgot that we have to reach Balicasag island by noon time. So our dolphins watching has to be cut short and off we go.

Dazzling dolphins making their appearance

Too bad I was not able to learn how to dive as this island has some of the best diving sites in the Philippines so I had to do with snorkeling only. But lo and behold! what an undersea world! Makes you want to stay and swim for hours and hours.
Back at the resort we lazed under the sun & played along the shore like there's no tomorrow. The sand is so fine, it just melts around your feet when you walk. Apparently in a low tide, I could walk miles from the shore towards the sea and still has a water level that can only reach as high as my calf. Wow, so much for swimming huh? But this does not change the fact that Bohol is one of the paradise islands you wouldn't want to miss. EVER!

Bohol, I will visit you again soon :)

Galera Revisited

2008-03-23T22:15:00.000+08:00

It has been a long time since I last traveled and just when I though about doing it again,voila, it fell on my birth date. :) And so 'Galera revisited' materialized.

I really looked forward to this trip, excited is more like it, because it was my first time to go on a trip to the beach with my boyfriend.. :-). One more thing different about this trip is that I'm with the 'girls' (Jana and Mae) and this time we did not acquire the services of any travel agencies because of bad experience. It's cheaper if you'll plan the trip and save up to the last centavo. We brought our own utensils, stove, canned goods, drinks etc. just to stick to our budget. Mismo!

Upon returning to Galera, I noticed some changes. Part of the shoreline near the commercial establishments have been cemented and elevated. The beachfront is much shorter than before, more crowded. Same ol' activities like banana boat ride, snorkeling, diving, henna tattooing are still available.

And so we went on to the usual IT in Galera (bumming at the beach, drinking spree, food trip...). At night time, a sponsored event was being held at the events area. It was party-to-the-max. There was a group of gay flirts who harassed my boyfriend when I went to the washroom (poor Rey), saw John "Sweet" Lapus, had a picture with him/her and got wasted. The night was already in a blur at that point so I had no idea how I got into our room.

Morning came and most gather their 'pasalubong' early on. Time to say "goodbye Galera" for now. :)

College Barkada Reunion

2007-07-07T00:09:00.000+08:00

I had the most exciting day ever because I get to see my college friends again after a long long time. We had so much fun ... still the same noisy group we were during the college days. Well, almost... yeah yeah, except the few pounds we gained though the years....hehehehe

Create Your Own

Galera Galore!

2007-07-03T22:50:00.000+08:00

Last April 30, me and my team (Fae, Ryan, Kelly and Alvin, set up an out-of-town lakwatsa . Destination: Puerto Galera. It was my first time to travel there and had no idea what to expect. I am excited and scared at the same time. We coordinated with the J8 Travel Service about the trip. And let me just warn you about them. Their customer service sucks. Being the first-timers, we were actually depending on them to show us around. This was not the case here. We were left alone. Left us alone!!! Arrgh... without any knowledge about the place (Well apart from what I already know through searching the net), we dealt with it on our own. So I won't recommend booking with them ever. hmmpp! Bitter talaga!

Oh well, at least I have friends to make up for that shortcoming... Here is the video, Enjoy!

Good deed indeed

2007-06-26T06:28:00.000+08:00

It's the first day of the work week. Just another boring day, I'd say. At 5 'o clock in the morning, I went out to start my travel to the office by commute. As I rode the Antipolo- Ayala FX shuttle, I saw this man rummaging through his bag for some bills. I paid my own fare and the man asked me to hand over his payment to the driver too. So I did. There was only me, him and the driver at that time. Unfortunately, the drive told him that he has no coins for his change. I'm guessing he had a hundred pesos bill for his payment. After a few seconds, the drive gave me my change. Again the man tried to look for some smaller bills in his bag but with no luck. That's when I volunteered to pay on his behalf. The man thanked me and said "God bless you!" I can't explain it , but the moment he said those words, something was lifted from me... a heavy heart?... unknown burden? I really don't know. But man, it felt good and light. I can't believe a simple deed would make my day this bright. I know its too early to tell and its still morning as I wrote all this down, but I think this feeling will me the whole day, if not the whole week even.

My first post

2007-06-23T11:47:00.000+08:00

I was never that excited about creating my very own blog. It took me a long time to be convinced. What is this really all about?

What is Blog?

Blog is short for weblog. A weblog is a journal (or newsletter) that is frequently updated and intended for general public consumption. Blogs generally represent the personality of the author or the Web site.

Having said that, its no wonder that I am no big fan of blog. First of all I am a very private person. I don't want the public to know my whereabouts. Second, I am just too lazy to make any statements (unless its worth sharing). Third, I don't have the time. Fourth, I am really not a techie person... so what am I doing making my very own weblog? and why bother? Simple, It's all just for fun, of course. And I'd like you to join me to explore new places, learn new things, and share different views. Besides, its one of the things up on my list to do or experience before I die. Now that I have the opportunity to do so, I'm going to make it worthwhile.

Hahahaha... ang gulo noh?but... what the heck, right? I've got nothing to lose. :-)

So there's my introduction. I now welcome myself to the world of blog. (applause..)