SkimChix - island life

My 4D Experience at Crown Regency

2011-09-07T09:26:00.006+08:00

My 4D Experience at Crown Regency

On my 27th Birthday, Angel and I have decided to spend it at one of Cebu’s highest tower right now, Crown Regency. We’ve been there for a number of times already but this time, we want to try their day tripper promo that entitles the bearer for a free pool assess, eat all you can buffet at the Restaurant, one ride to either of the ride and a 4D experience in their theater.

We went there at almost 10 o’clock in the morning but we had a hard time figuring out what elevator to take to go to the 36th floor, since it’s where we are going to pay for the promo. The security guards do not know their own protocol or don’t have any idea about the promo at all. So we have to transfer from one building to another just to ask on where we really are going. Was so pissed off, it seems because we don’t look like foreigners we were treated that way? I hope not!

We paid for the day tripper trip and was given the ticket that has our meal stubs, ticket for the ride and the theater and access to the pool area, though we don’t have the key to activate the elevator just in case we want to go to the lower floors where the pool was located. Fortunately, one of the hotel crew was with us in the elevator so we reached the level where the pool was located. They do have a nice view of the city from the pool side, but unfortunately it was under renovation, we were not advised nor were we offered to use the indoor pool that is functional. Hmpft! Another bad experience in this trip.

I have to brush it aside in order not to spoil my day. So we decided to have lunch while waiting for the rides to open at 1 o’clock in the afternoon. The food was mediocre, not bad but not excellent either, there’s nothing special to the dishes served. So we just feasted our eyes on the sight of the city surrounding the tower and rested for a while before we explore the rides.

We decided to try the 4D Theater first. This one, I have to say was the excellent part of the trip. It was my first time to experience the 4D and I have to say, it got me screaming during the part that rats came out on the screen with synchronize air blown below your legs giving you a feeling that real rats are really in the area or snakes hissing and spitting there venom with water coming from the front part of your seat. I was scared! Though the movie was short but I love it!

So off we go to the rides. I’ve tried the edge coaster and the skywalk, but I find the edge coaster scarier so we chose to have it instead of the skywalk (the wall climb and the zipline at this time were not yet ready). So we chose to experience the edge coaster again, this time, we planned to have the edge coaster individually so that we get to have lots of pictures in the ride and instead of buying the ones taken by their crew.

Ice cream anyone?

2011-07-06T10:13:00.008+08:00

Ice cream anyone?

In the mood for a sweet treat? How about some tasty ice cream from Gelatissimo? Hmmmmmmm am I making you salivate? I am a self-confessed ice cream addict, doesn't really matter what brand or how much it cost, as long as its ice cream, I'll always consider it a treat. One of the best ice cream experience I've had was with Gelatissimo.

I love how they allow you to taste the different flavors. Whew! Saves me bucks from buying flavors that I'm not inclined to eating. The staff are friendly, they are patient with my every demand for free taste.

The price maybe quiet expensive, that's Php 90 for 1 scoop of ice cream. But I suggest if there are more than 2 of you to go for 2 scoops of different flavor and just share it, because its more cheaper than buying individual scoops of ice cream. You get to taste different flavors for a discounted price.

So what are you waiting for? Don't deprive your cravings and savor the ice cream even in this rainy weather.

At CDO before we left for Cebu (Day 3-4)

2011-07-05T08:41:00.006+08:00

At CDO before we left for Cebu (Day 3-4)

Instead of heading for white water rafting in CDO, we decided to postpone it for this trip. We were exhausted and we've spent too much in Camiguin.

We headed to a college friend's house to spend the night before we return to Cebu. The only place that we could explore was the SM Mall near their village and the village itself.

The village is located in the uptown area and most of the places has just been built. The city itself is downtown which is too far so we just have to check on the homes built the its architecture and designs that we plan to copy on our future home.

This blog is also give my appreciation to one of my close friends in college, for a very warm accommodation. To Maui, Lloyd and her cute baby girl, thank you so much.

The Virgin Mary of Simala

2011-07-01T12:29:00.008+08:00

The Virgin Mary of Simala

The Virgin Mary of Simala has been known to almost everyone how sacred and miraculous it is. A lot of people would flock there on the weekends to offer their prayers and petitions. I was not exempted from this. Before I took the board exams, I made sure that I'll find time, even if I was busy reviewing, to visit Simala. Together with my friends from college, we visited the Virgin Mary to ask her help and guidance as we take the board exam.

Our prayers were granted and we got to visit the place again to give thanks. But that has been 4 years ago. And that was the last time I've visited Simala. Then just recently, I wanted to visit Mama Mary of Simala. One weekend, we went there by riding a bus and a tricycle.

It was nice to be back here. The place was improved, it got bigger and airy. And the place was orderly, peaceful and you can really feel that you are at peace with yourself.

Getting here has been very accessible. Van for hires, bus, motorcycle and tricycles are available for your convenience and parking lot for private vehicle are also there. After the trip you can drop by beaches and resorts before going back to the city.

Cavite - Tagaytay Side Trip

2011-06-29T10:46:00.010+08:00

Cavite - Tagaytay Side Trip

When I scheduled my training in Manila, I made sure that the tickets I bought will be a day earlier and a day late than the scheduled training. That way, I have more time to adjust and have time to wander around Manila, before and after the official business.

When I arrived, I was not directly taken to my home for the next five days but rather, I was first housed in Cavite, their second home, where the family I’m staying go to during weekends. It’s located in one of the prestigious communities in Cavite and the place is cool, contrary to the weather in Manila.

In the afternoon I was toured in Tagaytay. Though that was not my first time in Tagaytay but it was my first time to zipline and horseback ride in Tagaytay.

Most of the time, it was only sightseeing and picture taking.

I like horseback riding, such a liberating feel when you get to ride and direct the horse all by yourself, and do I need to say more about how much I love speed! Woohoooo! ( waving my cowboy hat)

After our little adventure at Tagaytay park, we dined at Gerry’s grill.

It was supposed to be somewhere else new, but the mall where we were planning to eat was full packed. No parking space was available. But nevertheless, the food at Gerry’s grill was delicious and we have the evening view of the taal lake and the towns surrounding it.

Special thanks to Uncle Donald, Tita Fe, Uncle Marlon, Tita Evelyn, Uncle Ronald, Ate margie, the kids, the rest of the crew for a very fun day at Tagaytay.

Happy Birthday to My Angel!

2011-06-25T00:01:00.007+08:00

Happy Birthday to My Angel!

Twenty Nine years ago, a person who was destined to meet me after twenty one years after he was born. The person who would later become a very good friend, a mentor and a confidant. He have seen my ups and my downs, he knows my weaknesses and my strength and best of all he accepted me for who I am.

He is my pillar when I feel weak. And he taught me to be strong. He supported me in my dreams and he is there to catch me if I fail. He is my family when I am lonely and sick. He made me feel how it is to love and be loved back. He is my strength. He is my angel sent from above.

The life I've spent with him was never a bed of roses. But none of it I've regret because it made me become a better person and help me appreciate life as it is.

Thank you so much for everything that you've done for me Angel. I look forward to spending the rest of my life with you. 'Till our hairs are white and our teeth are lost. Love you so much Angel, and may you enjoy your birthday!

Love you Raymond Lazaro, till death do us part!

(bleeeeeehhhh you have no choice! bwahahahaa)

White Island, Camiguin (Day 3)

2011-06-23T10:47:00.020+08:00

White Island, Camiguin (Day 3)

We've been told by our driver that someone will fetch us at our place for the island hopping at the White Island. We didn't wake up early because it had been raining really hard earlier. After the rain we walked to the jump off point of our banca ride to the island.

From the shore, we could see the White Island but the waves were big and the cloud was gloomy. For beach bums like me, bad weather can't hinder me from feeling the sand on my feet and taking a dip in the sea.

The island was great, I love the waters, even the big waves, and most especially the white sands. Indeed it was saving the best for last. After eating our breakfast, we packed our bags and headed back to CDO.

Photos Courtesy of Raymond Lazaro

Camiguin Day Tour (Day 2)

2011-06-21T19:23:00.020+08:00

Camiguin Day Tour (Day 2)

I woke up early to catch the blue hour (term used by photographers before the sun rises, but I'm not a photographer just a photography enthusiast) at the beach. Then our day started with our home cooked breakfast courtesy of our host cooking the dried squid we bought yesterday during our stroll.

Our vehicle for the day tour arrived and we have to bid good bye to our first home in Camiguin. We brought all our things and carried it with us for the rest of the trip (you don't have to worry leaving it with the driver because they'll offer to look out for it without extra charge).

We started with the old Vulcan, that has the 14 stations of the cross on its path, the top most would give you a better view of the sunken cementary and the open sea. Though on the 12th station we decided to go back since it was starting to drizzle and the thick clouds was beginning to hover above the peak.

Then we proceed to check the sunken cemetery. It was still drizzling and we chose not to go down the beach to get a lower view of the cemetery and we only took photos in the viewing deck.

We dropped by the Old church that was destroyed when the Old Vulcan erupted way back. The walls of the Old Church was there but the church itself was destroyed.

A small chapel was built in the middle of the ruins and the back of the church was filled with green grass, we stayed longer because it was a nice scene for some picture.

The sun was already above our head and we already felt the humidity rising. Good thing, we are already at the Soda Spring. It was a cold spring and the cool temperature was so refreshing and just in time to freshen us up.

After a quick dip, we went to Sto Nino spring. This time we opted not to take a bath since the first spring was enough to freshen us and the ambiance of this second resort is not that appealing. So we just waited for our lunch to be ready before we set to visit another site.

The next place is the Katibawasan falls. It was too far from the remaining spots because it is in the mountains of Camiguin. But the travel was worth it. The falls was tall and you can take a lot of different perspective. The water was very inviting, very clear but it was too cold when I attempted to take a dip.

Next stop was at Ardent Hot Spring. This time I took a dip in the hot water in the first pool (some say that there is another pool which is more hotter). But I think the water was just slightly hot to look warm. Nothing beats the Mambukal hot spring when it comes to hotness of the water.

After our ardent adventure we went to our second accommodation in Camiguin where we were originally booked, the Gamorot cottages.

This time, the place doesn't have a shoreline where we can stroll but a known Resort (Paras Resort) has a break water that is open to non-guest. We also decided to eat our dinner in Paras al fresco. Though the food is not worth the price we've paid.

Our second day at Camiguin ended.

From CDO to Camiguin (Day 1)

2011-06-18T11:54:00.026+08:00

From CDO to Camiguin (Day 1)

One advantage of seat sale is we are given an opportunity to travel and explore different places. The last seat sale brought me to Boracay, this time we are heading to Cagayan de Oro.

Our plan, to experience white water rafting and explore the Islands of Camiguin. After arriving at CDO airport, we planned to go directly to Camiguin via Agora terminal and rode a bus for approximately 3 hours to Balingoan Wharf. From there, the wharf was only walking distance, so if you plan to visit Camiguin, ignore the tricycle drivers offering you a ride to the pier and start walking and appreciating the countryside.

The schedule of ferry is not really consistent so to pass our time for the ferry to depart, we took pictures and just relaxed in our seats. It could also be a time for you to mingle with fellow travelers and ask them to join you on the multicab (which cost 1500 pesos for a day tour) to cut the expenses. Which is what I did, since there was only me and my husband who occupies the 10-12 person capacity cab. But unfortunately, there was a few tourist and most have already booked their transportation.

When we arrived, we took a van for hire (P 50 pax) then rode a tricycle (P 10 pax) to the place we were suppose to stay. But we were brought to a different place with almost the same name, though we didn't know about this until we were able to contact the person who booked our room (there was no signal for sun network and we have to use the caretaker's mobile phone, because we haven't brought an extra sim for emergency).

But we opted to spend the night at Gamorot residence for a discounted price and we were the only occupants at that time. Then the following day we transferred at Gamorot Cottages. The nice thing about the first place was the shoreline. Even if it wasn't white sand, but you got to enjoy early morning walk at the beach. But the lather has cheaper rates and a much bigger place that can accommodate a whole family or barkada.

We opted to spend the day exploring the place and the community. We dined in the only foodshoppe in Barangay Yumbing that is budget friendly. We made a trip to the rice field and just simply refusing to take a ride with any transportation and enjoyed strolling.

After getting a glimpse of the sunset, which is really not the right angle at the place we've stayed, we retreated to our room and spent the night watching television. It was a long day for us, and we know tomorrow would be longer because its scheduled for our day tour in the Island.

My Big City Urban Adventure (Manila)

2011-06-16T08:38:00.009+08:00

My Big City Urban Adventure (Manila)

I was sent to Manila for one week training at the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute in Quezon City. But instead of being house in a hotel, I agreed to stay at a relative's place in Pasay. I was planning to take the public transportation and experience the buzzing life of the urban jungle. Its not my first time to set foot in Manila, but this will be my first time commuting, most of my visit are for 2-3 days and private transportation is always available.

So my plan was to ride the MRT from Taft Avenue to Quezon Avenue then ride a jeepney to Commonwealth and from there walk going to PNRI building. So I think I'm set for my Urban Adventure.

On my first day, since my uncle knew that its my first time commuting, he sent one of this trusted friend to accompany me and teach me the things I need to know when riding an MRT. Luckily, my uncle's place is just a walking distance from an LRT that intersects with an MRT station. Then the LRT train arrived at Gil Puyat Station and the people started coming out from the train. After everyone was out my uncle's friend lead me the way to ride when suddenly, the doors close without him in it.

I was alone in the train, my guide was left in the platform. And I don't have his cell phone number! The other passengers jokingly teased me because I was alone. (all I could think of was, WTF! how do I know what station to stop) So I calmed myself and remembered the things I've read on where I should be riding the MRT. TAFT AVENUE. That's all I remembered. Then I saw the route of the LRT, and traced where I was coming and knew that I need to go down on the second stop. At Taft Avenue LRT station I decided to wait for my guide. They say the train has a 15 minutes travel gap. 15 minutes isn't that long to way. The next LRT arrived and even with the crowd, I was able to spot my guide.

He lead the way for the MRT Station which is connected by foot bridge. We lined to buy the ticket and taught me where and how to place it on the entrance. And from there I was left to travel alone.

With that incident, I knew that life in the big city is different from the life I've lived in the Island. Everything is fast pace and everyone is always fighting for a seat in the MRT (hahaha, you'll even experience being pushed around, especially when you're line in an all women cabin compared to the cabin that is mixed with men!).

The jeepney ride wasn't a stress since there is always a line, its the traffic that could be draining.

This was my everyday commute for five days and the experience was liberating. I never thought I could survive such fast pace life, but I did. I also got to familiarize the places and cities and I can conclude that there is a lesser chance for me to be lost in the big city. It was one hell of an Urban Adventure and I wished to experience in a bigger city again...

Mt. Apo Peak to Kapatagan (Day 3)

2011-06-16T07:13:00.013+08:00

Mt. Apo Peak to Kapatagan (Day 3)

We rise early to catch the sunrise. Wondered how it looks like when you are on top of Philippines' Highest mountain. I wasn't able to bring a hike sandals so I was left trailing the peak with my city sandals, it was slippery and have slipped a lot of times, got pinched by some thorny bushes on the way too. But everything was worth it. Another splendid scenery right in front of me. Clouds was below us, and the other mountains looks so small. We are indeed at the top of the highest mountain.

On our way back to camp, we stayed longer to pick some wild berries. Another delicious treat from the mountain. We prepared our meal, this time it was my turn to cook pasta for our breakfast. My first time to cook with fewer ingredients and I was reminded not to be choosy because I am not in the city. So there goes our breakfast together with other served meals and coffee. When the sun was high, and some of our clothes have dried, we packed and start hiking. This time, taking the Kapatagan Trail.

We passed the volcano's crater (actually Mt. Apo is a volcano). Then the boulders, with sulfur vents. It doesn't smell good. It's like sew water and the fume is very strong . Then my knees started to swell. I have been having problems with my knees before the climb, good thing I brought my knee pads to assist me. It was a descend so a lot of pressure was given on my knees. I thought I couldn't make it. But I can't be weak in this part of the climb, because everyone else was having a hard time dealing with all the boulders and a cry baby is not necessary. So I continued then after the boulders, I have to stop and transfer my knee pads on the other knee to minimize the pain. Then we started descending again on a slippery trail with dried leaves on the floor and mud. Most of the time, I slide through this trail just to minimize adding pressure on my knees. Then we crossed the river and entered Godi-Godi.

Another majestic forest. The temperature was cool and it was misty. Then we stopped to take our lunch at Godi-Godi Camp. I also got the chance to take my pain reliever to help my aching knees.

Unfortunately the place was dirty and trash were littered everywhere. The previous climbers failed to bring there trash with them. So we decided not to spend the night here and started hiking to reach the village before night.

I've trekked, slide, climbed over and climbed under big trees. Crossed rivers and got pricked by thorny bushes. Then the forest ended. Then a muddy trail started to appear. At first I thought that this is only for a few meters, but I was wrong. It was mud until the trail ends at the village. Lemme count the number of times I fall on my butt... hmmmmmmmmm I can't! I've fallen a dozen times already, my butt was starting to hurt. And I cursed the trail. I hate the mud but that made me forget my aching knees. Because all I was thinking about was to reach the village and get this mud done.

Then we met a horse and its tender and he told us that the village is near. I started to worry because I can't see any of my group, there was only three of us in the lead pack. 2 of our guides and me. I can't hear their footsteps and no lights from there headlamps (it was almost dark during this time) and I was afraid that they were lost. I have to admit, I didn't mind if someone was behind me during the trek, because I was too focus to finish the muddy trail.

We arrived in the village and we were offered water to clean ourselves. We washed ourselves and waited for the rest to arrive. For almost 2 hours of waiting, we saw signs of lights coming from the muddy trail. And we know that it is them. They've made it. after everyone has finished washing there selves, we started to cook for dinner. Another socials. No pressure anymore, the trail going back to the city is not that hard, and transportation is available at the foot of the mountain.

Reaching the Peak (Mt. Apo Day 2)

2011-06-15T16:53:00.016+08:00

Reaching the Peak (Mt. Apo Day 2)

Hardly had enough sleep last night, and woke up to the freezing cold. We have to start hiking early if we want to reach the peak before dark. After packing our things and cleaning camp, we started our climb. It was a steep climb and there was mud from time to time. Good thing I got a rain gear pants made of plastic, I think I got the cleanest pants among the group. I was wearing it not because I don’t want to get dirty, but I was trying to get rid of leeches, since I’ve read that in this part of the forest, there are a lot of leeches.

We were trekking the forest floors and all we see are tall trees, vines and wild flowers. The sun's rays would shine from time to time and we could measure how high we are by some openings along the path and see the opposite mountains but that is too seldom. There are also some strange noise and hiss, which our guides told us that these are sounds of snakes. Though I don’t wish to see any of them. I don’t want to disturb the peace of the forest because of my scream.

Before we push to reach Lake Venado, which is our target destination to eat lunch, we made a trip to Mainit Falls. This is actually one of the campsites, if we got to the jump off point earlier and we could bath in the waters before we start the trek. But since its only a side trip for us all we got was pictures. It was enough but to experience bathing in its water could be more rewarding.

So we started our climb and passed the killer 90 degrees trail. It wasn't that hard, since there were already ladders that helps us in the climb. We started to feel the cold air of the forest and you could see that the trees are covered with moss, the weather was inconsistent with unexpected rain.

Then we reach the swamps. Lake Venado is within our sight. It was magical. It left me speechless. I can find the right words to describe its beauty. We were the first to arrived in the group so I had the change to take a lot of pictures of the scenery even if it drizzles (I was told that this is because of the clouds surrounding us). During the time when the sun was out, we got the chance to dry our wet things, that includes my sleeping bag that was so wet when I slept the previous day.

I could see the peak and the different forest that we will be traversing. There's the tall trees, then midget trees den some fruit bearing trees that I thought was the wild berries. I tried tasting it and realized how spicy and hot it was. Then the real berries started to emerge, it taste delicious, though from the trail, you can find the ripe ones, maybe because the previous climbers have harvested it. Rain started pouring again and the air was cold. It was almost dark. I was so tired, too much effort needs to be made to take a single step. But I told myself that I can't stop, the peak is so near.

Then a flat view with cogon grass started to appear and I realize, I am already at the peak! Success!

But before I enjoy the view, I have to change my clothes, I was soaking wet and I am feeling very cold. It was too much for me. I am not used to cold weather. My thick warmers was not enough. I have to join the others in one tent to be warmed. Alcohol was served to help us in warming our bodies. Socials started and by midnight, we called it a night so we can still enjoy the sunrise. So there goes our lights off. Our second day at the peak ended.

Kidapawan - Marble River Trek (Mt. Apo Day 1)

2011-06-13T13:38:00.022+08:00

Kidapawan - Marble River Trek (Mt. Apo Day 1)

We arrived at Kidapawan at one o'clock in the afternoon. We had a briefing regarding our climb at the Tourism office of Kidapawan. We were reminded about the do's and don'ts in climbing and an overview of the chosen trail. We were advised to spend the rest of the day at Kidapawan instead of pushing for an emergency camp in the trail.

But our feet are itching to start the climb, so we did, and arrived at Lake agro at three o'clock in the afternoon, our jump off point . Fortunately, we met some kids who volunteered to act as our porters. And since, it was my plan to have the least load during the climb, we hired them to assist us, actually to carry my load. I was there to enjoy the climb and not to punish myself of my load.

We started trekking the Marble River, which includes passing over a fallen tree branch that connected the ends of the river. It was a heart thumbing experience since it was for more than 7 meters long. I wasn't sure if I can cross it without falling underneath the rocky river. But thank God I reached the end safely. So far that was the most challenging part of the trek, the rest seems very easy. Even crossing the river with strong currents didn't scare me.

Then we reach the most appropriate spot to spend the night, we set up our tents and started cooking our dinner. After our dinner rain started pouring so we decided to call it a night. I had a hard time sleeping with the water flowing on our side and my sleeping bag was getting wet. And the noise from the cascading river was making it more difficult to sleep.

So our first cold night to quest Mt. Apo ended.

Poker night at home

2011-06-11T10:27:00.008+08:00

Poker night at home

This one is really not an outdoor adventure, but this is one activity that I can easily relate to with my not so adventurous buddies. Poker night!

An evening of pizza, fries, soda and I forgot if there was beer and lots or reminiscing, sharing and bets. It was a fun way to relax and unwind with friends especially if it is added with some hilarious moves and regrets of the game. The bet was small, it was all for fun, and we were successful in teaching these girls how to play poker, since Osh won all the pot.

But nevertheless... It was a very fun night with these gals.

I am writing again!

2011-06-09T14:35:00.004+08:00

I am writing again!

I has been quite a while since I've written a blog about my adventures and travels. Work has been very demanding and other commitments made my schedule hectic stealing my writing time and I have converted it to sleeping time. But nevertheless, I was able to insert some adventures and travels during those times. My gift for all the stress and pressures my passion gave me. So my apologies to those who have been waiting for my updates that it took me a long time to publish.

With no further adieu, I'm back! I'm ready to share my tips, and experiences during those trips and hopefully I can find time to write more about it. So sit back and travel with me through time as I narrate these experiences.

RCPI Night Climb

2011-01-11T16:00:00.022+08:00

RCPI Night Climb

As part of our preparation for our Mt. Apo climb, we decided to conduct a minor climb in the mountains of Cebu. Our destination, RCPI Tower. That’s the part of Cebu Mountains that is very visible in the city because of the many towers erected in the area. Since most of us have commitments during the day, it was decided that we will trek just before the sun goes down. But unfortunately, the trek started at six o’clock in the evening. It was already dark and this is my first night climb.

There are really a few things that I fear of, but this one scared me. We were walking in the dark, with just the sounds of crickets, the river and seldom human voices are heard. The surrounding was so quiet most of the time. And the trail was slippery and muddy due to the frequent rain days before our climb. At one point we made a wrong turn, and the person leading the pack knew we were lost. Good thing the people who used to be behind us didn’t follow. We tried calling their names to get directions to go back to the correct trail. We made short cuts just to keep up with the group and that means descending from the tall grasses, sliding, and getting scratch from thorny vines.

When the altitude was higher, we had a glimpse of the city, the vibrant city light. I was amazed. This was my first time climbing RCPI tower and they were telling me, that there’s more to what I’m seeing when we reach the top. And as promised after hours of walking in the dark, we arrived at the camp site. It was beside a tower that was separated from a group of towers in the opposite peak.

The view was stunning! We were treated to an unobstructed view of the city. And it was wonderful. This has a better view than the chalet. And only few hikers would reach this site. It was heaven for me. After dinner, all I did was spread a cover on the grass and just stare at the beauty of the view.

Though we were force to sleep early because it started to drizzle then it rained harder. My tent wasn’t reliable enough because some of the rain droplets started to get inside the tent. I have to transfer to a different tent to keep myself dry. In the morning, I was treated to another beautiful sight, the sunrise, the city and the surrounding mountains.

It was time to go back to the city to have breakfast; we did not bother cooking since our butane (use to fuel our portable burner) was almost empty. I felt I haven’t fully savored the beauty of the place yet. I want to stay longer, but it would be too hot when the sun will be over our heads. On our way home, we were following a dirt road, passing the chalet and the Mountain View. We rode a jeepney going to JY Square to each our breakfast in Mc Donald’s before heading home. It was a very nice pre climb event and I wish to go back to RCPI Tower again.

BMC Training by IMS

2011-01-10T13:20:00.017+08:00

BMC Training by IMS

When one gets involve in mountain climbing or hiking, it is advisable to get a Basic Mountaineering Course. It is not compulsory but it is a good thing to learn when you are always exposed to the outdoors. Thankfully the Inter-Mountaineering Society conducted a free seminar on BMC I at Persimon, Mabolo last June 2010.

The host group has been very generous to share their experiences and tips on the outdoors, covering the basic survival skills, to do’s and not to do’s, and how to preserve the mountains and the trails for the next generation of mountaineers. They gave us the basic information about the mountains in the Philippines and categorize based on the difficulty of climbing them.

The training room was full packed, but never the least it was a day of learning and a time to mingle with other mountaineering enthusiast. Best of all, the training comes with free snacks, which served as another highlight for the event because the food taste great and there was food for everyone.

In behalf of our group, Bagtaks, we would like to congratulate the host group, Inter-Mountaineering Society and Sir Rans of Ewit for inviting us. Keep educating everyone of taking care of Mother Nature! Good job guys!

On top of my Dream

2011-01-03T15:56:00.039+08:00

On top of my Dream

I have been active in climbing just last year, 2010. I have climbed mountains and explored caves in the pass years but it was only in 2010 that I have dedicated most of my time to climbing. After my Mt. Lanaya climb in Alegria, one of the toughest mountains that I have climbed in Cebu, I had the desire to explore other mountains as well. But Mt. Apo was not in in the list yet. Because I know I have to train and climb more mountains before I conquer Mt. Apo. But never the least it was my dream to conquer Mt. Apo.

It was not until the second half of the year that I was invited to climb Mt. Apo, I was hesitant. I have heard a lot of stories from my fellow mountaineers about how difficult it is to climb Mt. Apo. And I do not want to do it until I’m not prepared. I know I have to be prepared emotionally and physically. But even with my doubts and as impulsive as I am, I bought my plane ticket going to Davao. I started buying climbing equipment including waterproof jackets to mention a few which can be purchased at outdoor shops like R.O.X. . I jogged the farthest distance and tried to convince myself that there is no turning back. Thinking about my climb did send my heart beating faster. I have to admit I was afraid. And to counter that, I tried reading articles on tips on climbing Mt. Apo. That way I know what to expect.

Time has come for us to climb Mt. Apo and the excitement of conquering Philippines' highest mountain was greater than my doubts and fears. I know that I’ll be expecting beautiful scenery, discover things that are not in the city. But everything surpassed my expectation.

The beauty of the mountain was beyond any words can explain. A lot of the time it left me speechless. It was such a beauty. I could not even justify the beauty of the mountain in my pictures. I was stunned. Everything was picture perfect, the sunset, the sunrise, the plains below, the clouds surrounding us from time to time, the wild berries, the forest, the falls, the peak, everything! All the hardships that we experienced during the climb, the cold, the swollen muscles, thorny bushes along the way, the knee deep mud, was all worth it! It was really tiring but it was also the most rewarding thing that I have done for the year.

Such beauty can't be experience in the comforts of our own homes or in the convenience of the city. Such splendor needs to be experience in the outdoors where fear needs to be conquered, going the extra mile, and taking the less traveled roads. Because such adventure pushed us to our limits but at the same time makes us realize that we can always make our dreams a reality. And it all starts in one small step to the R.O.X. outdoors.

Thank You 2010

2011-01-01T12:45:00.003+08:00

Thank You 2010

The year 2010 has brought me a lot of interesting things, places and people. I have made my goals into a reality and have added some that was not on my list but I am still very glad that I did.

I have climbed the tallest mountain in the Philippines, and the second tallest in Asia (coming blog), I have jumped the Plunge and ziplined at Danao Bohol, discovered the remote island of Camotes and conquered the urban jungle of Metro Manila alone . I have devoted my time learning the basics of Photography and started capturing moments that are memorable to me. These are some of the things that I have listed on my bucketlist before I turn 30, and 3 years earlier I have accomplished it.

The coming year promises more adventure and discovery for me. I have already booked a flight for Cagayan de Oro and hopefully I will be able to experience the white water rafting and explore Camiguin Island. I have committed in studying more and taking lessons in Photography too. And as the saying goes that life is a box of chocolate, we never know what we can get,I look forward to whatever things life will offer this 2011, may it be a bitter dark chocolate, I will still savor every bite of it. Because I will, and still am living life to the fullest.

No challenge will be turn down, just let me take it one day at a time. To us all, Happy New Year and start planning out your adventures, because life is short, you deserve to enjoy and live every minute of it! Happy New Year Everyone!

At the tallest peak of Cebu, Osmena Peak

2010-12-27T09:59:00.009+08:00

At the tallest peak of Cebu, Osmena Peak

I've heard a lot about Osmena Peak and seen a lot of beautiful pictures of the place. And from then on, I started wishing that someday I can experience the beauty of Osmena Peak first hand. For someone who wants it that bad, nothing is impossible. So I spearheaded an event to climb Opeak with the help of course from my mountaineering friends, Bagtaks and Chupacabra. It was also joined by our guest who made the event more fun.

We arrived at our jump off point at around six in the evening so it turned out to be a night trek. It was an hour trek from the jump off point to the camp site. And after arriving tents were pitched and we started cooking our dinner. Socials follow though there's no need to really introduce the participants since we only have a few new faces. Both groups have always been together in most of their climbs and so the night was spend giggling, sharing stories and some boze. Or maybe for myself, got to much of it.

It was cold and the fog has surrounded us most of the time, glad I was wearing two layers of clothes and a really effective warmer. So there I was, spared from the cold.

Morning came and slowly the fog started to disappear and the beauty of the mountains was slowly revealed. It was spectacular! Can't explain how happy I was seeing the valleys and the seas below. I could have sit there in the cliff all day and still I couldn't get enough of it. Feels like I'm in heaven... (or is that a song?) But really, it gave me peace of mind, not that I am troubled but deep in my soul I felt the peacefulness of the place. Its like, all the worries has been wiped off, changed with a more enlighten spirit.

I felt the goodness of our creator seeing the beauty of the place. Can't say more but to bow down to his greatness.. It's not an exaggeration, because it really is very beautiful.. I wish to be back there again, and I won't be promising that it will be my last. The scenery is addictive, you'd wish for more and that's what's happening with me... I'd like to go back and I will be going back...

The Milk Station at Barili

2010-12-21T09:20:00.006+08:00

The Milk Station at Barili

When traveling the west side going south, you can pass a Milk Station somewhere in Barili. It's a small park that has a store selling homemade products. These are ice cream, fresh milk, white cheese and other dairy products.

The main ingredient which is milk, came fresh from their farm. It taste good and is very affordable. The ice cream comes in different flavors such as strawberry, ube, chocolate and vanilla. And I love all the flavors.

There's also white cheese which is really tasty. It is rarely found in the city nowadays even in market place where we used to buy some. I haven't eaten white cheese for quite a long time and I don't know where to buy it until I discovered that in Barili. These are either from a cow's or carabao's milk. And yes I did ate the white cheese raw. Eating it with crackers is also a nice way of enjoying white cheese but there was no crackers available.

The best part of this milk heaven is the price and the ambiance. It doesn't cost much and it gives a quick break after traveling the south west national road of Cebu. There are tables and chairs under the shade of the trees that surround the area. So if you're on a road trip and on a milk food trip then this is the place to go.

photos from Raymond Lazaro

Talaba Food trip, anyone?

2010-12-20T09:22:00.009+08:00

Talaba Food trip, anyone?

Enough for those adventures, either climbing peaks or exploring beaches because it's time to enjoy some food trip. Oyster or Talaba in the Cebuano language has been very abundant lately in Cebu. Though I guess that not everyone is a fan of this.

I don't like the taste and the slimy feel the very first time that I've tasted it. Then I got a chance to taste a baked talaba and that's how my addiction started. From baked talaba I began to love the raw or half cooked talaba with just a squeeze of lemon juice or kalamansi.

We flocked to Consolacion, a town north of Cebu. Its just after you crossed the bridge connecting Mandaue City and Consolacion. Its situated near a fish pond that doesn't only offer fresh talaba but also fresh milk fresh or bangus.

Both can be cook over charcoal, right from the fishnets. There was approximately 15 of us and we were able to consume 29 kilos of talaba. We actually bought our own home made spicy vinegar, butter and cheese to add flavors to our talaba, but eating it raw is just fine, because fresh talaba taste sweet with some salty feel.

The place may not be a class A destination but its enough to give you a feel that you are away from the city, its very relaxing and gives you a breath of fresh air, sea breeze that is. And the food doesn't cost that much, 35 pesos for every kilo of talaba consumed. Not bad, right?

I am Back!

2010-12-15T09:41:00.003+08:00

I am Back!

Its been a long time since I have updated this blog, for the reason that I have bought my own domain and was planning to work on it. Unfortunately, I miss my skimchix blog. Just writing the things that interest me and not just the pictures (my plan for my own domain).

I love to capture beautiful pictures but I love to share tips and advises in going places, share my experience to all my adventures and inspire you to find your own adventure. So here I am again!
To all my coming adventures, bring it on, because I'm blogging it!

White Sandy Beach of Casay

2010-09-10T08:12:00.012+08:00

White Sandy Beach of Casay

Casay Beach is not new to people in the south side of Cebu. But for me, it was my first time to enjoy the white sand beach in the boundary of Argao and Dalagute. It's a very nice place to spend a peaceful and relaxing time at the beach minus the crowd.

It is managed by the Local Government unit of Argao, so entrance and cottage rate are very affordable. You can just bring marinated pork, chicken or fish to broil in one of their broiling site or ready to eat foods for your meals.

Its also a good spot for skimboarding especially during high-tide because the sand is fine and has sufficient wave big enough for gliding the shores. Though during low tides when the corals or rocks will start to surface, skimboarding is not a good idea because the rocks are sharp and can cause some serious injuries.

Going to the resort is easy. You can ride the bus bound for Dalaguete and beyond route (that's the southeast side of Cebu) and ask the bus driver to stop you at Casay junction. From there you can either walk approximately one kilometer or ride a 3 wheeled bicycled(the trisikad) going to the place.

For our Casay escapade, it was a fun filled day with good food and some boze. Or maybe not some, because the boze was overflowing that even on our way home, they were still consuming the drink in the bus. But never the less it was a very fun day with my mountaineering friends. Spending the weekend together but not on any peak, just under the sun and the sand.

Long Weekend at Moalboal

2010-08-26T10:10:00.010+08:00

Long Weekend at Moalboal

It was a long weekend in the island and I was expected to join my hubby in their team outing at Bas Dako, Moalboal. They have been there since early afternoon, while I was still at work. So I was left to travel alone going south. I'm not really new to traveling alone and I have always enjoy the liberty of doing it. So I left work and waited for my bus going to the south west part of Cebu.

This time it was at a different resort, contrary to my previous visits at Moalboal where I only stayed at Delgado's Resort . It was at Magic Place Resort. The place was nice, just in front the sea shore and the accommodation was affordable. Though I brought my own tent to spend the night.

It was windy and it was my first time to experience the big waves of Moalboal. The big waves did not hinder me from enjoying the white sand and the sunny weather. I was playing with the waves all day, and I ended up, feeling the waves even I was already out of the water.

For trips to Moalboal, it is recommended to bring ready to cook food, or if you're bringing a vehicle you can always buy at their local market and enjoy their fresh seafood, vegetables and fruits.

And just in-case you're planning for a backpacking trip to Moalboal minus your private vehicle, bus fare would range from 80-100 pesos. And another 40-50 pesos for the tricycle. For beach bummers, this is another place worth wasting our time.