Wanderful Pinay

First Fall | Busay Falls of Loboc

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:43:00 +0000

Welcome to Busay Falls! The singer performer of Loboc River Cruise sounds proud while introducing this majestic water falls. At first I was disappointed of how small it was at a distance, but when the boat gets nearer to the falls, i realized that it wasn't really that small after all.

I was amazed when I saw the 3 meters wide and 4 meters deep Busay Falls. The sound of its running water brings calm to a restless mind and brings peace to a troubled soul.

This Busay Falls is usually the end or turning point of the Loboc river Cruise. The boat also stays for a while here for the tourists to appreciate well the beauty of the falls up-close.

This was also the favorite hang out and bathing place of the locals who enjoyed the river much.

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.”
-- Mark Twain --

A Yummy Treat | Are you In or Out?

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:33:00 +0000

Quality You Can Taste Since 1948

In-n-Out... My all time favorite burger...

Marvin always make it a point to bring home a yummy treat from U.S. and this time it's In-n-Out, since we don't have it here in PH yet and he wanted me to taste this famous burger. A night before his flight back, Marvin asked Aunt Lou if it possible to bring In and Out burger to the Philippines knowing that his travel time were approximately 18 hours. At first he want hesitant because it might spoil and turn to waste, but Aunt Lou convinced him and eventually bought 2 pieces of Cheeseburger and 2 pieces Regular.

When they arrived home, Aunt Lou immediately put the burger on fridge so as not to spoil it. The next morning she accompanied Marvin to the airport for his flight bound to Manila.

After 18 hours of waiting, I finally tasted this yummy burger for the first time.

The burger patty was juicy and meaty, you can actually enjoy its 100% beef with no extenders. It was well grilled and best paired with cheese, pickles, mustard, tomato and tomato ketchup. It's buns were soft and fluffy especially when re-heated to a microwave oven.

Since then Marvin always brings home an In-n-Out for me.

Good thing it didn't spoil.

*DISCLAIMER*

This is not a paid advertisement. This was made intended to, for readers.

As to share my experiences.

Marvin's Getaway | Exploring West U.S.

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 10:39:00 +0000

-- WAX MUSEUM --

In continuation to Marvin's getaway.. Here are some pictures or attractions to see in Los Angeles California's Wax Museum.

The Wax Museum opens at 10:00 am till midnight. Lots of life size replicas of A-list stars were here including Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp, Gwyneth Paltrow and Kirsten Dunst. Tickets were available through internet reservation at www.hollywoodwaxmuseum.com or over-the-counter transactions.

My favorite lovable SHREK.. Will have a picture here someday. I will not miss this attraction for sure.

Marvin's Getaway | Exploring West U.S.

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 11:31:00 +0000

-- MAY WEATHER PROMOTIONS --

..LAS VEGAS..

-- Fulfilling Marvin's Dream --

Marvin loves Floyd Mayweather so much to made him travel all the way to Las Vegas just to visit the boxing superstar. Unluckily Floyd weren't there at the time of his visit but Roger Mayweather (Floyd's uncle/trainer) did, so it wasn't a bad day for him after all.

Las Vegas, Nevada is a 4 hours drive from Orange County (where he stayed for a couple of days). Kuya Ike, his Mom's cousin is generous and hospitable enough to drive for him and tour him around Vegas. Good thing Kuya Ike's sister Ate Edna lives in Las Vegas so they let her stay there for a night to save for the hotels.

Roger Mayweather

The famous uncle/trainer of Floyd.

Don't forget to grab a TEE as a souvenir.

Marvin's Getaway | Exploring West U.S.

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 09:05:00 +0000

LAGUNA BEACH CALIFORNIA

Last September Marvin had to go to the states for his love of basketball. Every year he always make to a point that he should not miss the Los Angeles Lakers game. Even if he didn’t get a season pass because it’s too expensive he would at least watch one of Kobe’s games. And included to fulfillment of his dreams is a yearly visitation to his family and relatives in San Diego, Orange County, Escondido, Long Beach, Sanfo etc. And to that year he met “kuya Ronald and Kuya Jun” both cousins of his Mom and they tour Marvin along Vegas and Laguna Beach.

According to Kuya Jun, Laguna Beach is where Famous “BAYWATCH” T.V series in the United States shoot.

Laguna Beach is a seaside resort city and artists community located in southern Orange County California and is the second oldest city in Orange County.

Lots of "Beach Bum" were on their bikini's having their skin tan.

So i warned Marvin not to play around... (as if I can actually see what he's been doing)

6 months and counting... :D

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:25:00 +0000

Its been 6 months since I started my travel blog which features my travel ventures and getaways... I decided to make a blog for I can share my travel experiences and for others to appreciate the wonderful things that this world can offer. Also to convince them to travel frequent just by reading my blog posts (i hope) and fall in love to the picturesque places that I featured here.

By the end of February or early March, as I celebrate my half year being a travel blogger, me and my friends agreed to explore Puerto Galera. Why? because Puerto Galera is just about 4hrs. travel from Manila and the bus station going to Batangas Port (where we ride a ferry boat bound to Sabang White Beach [Puerto Galera]). We chose to come this early so we don't have to sync with the tons of people who wants to spend their holy week vacation here.

My Puerto Galera Adventure will be feature here for sure :) Till my next Getaways...

Bulacan: Town of Heritage | Glimpse of Malolos

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 15:43:00 +0000

Barasoain Church
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish Church

Since my Aunt and her family moved to Bulacan, my cousin and I had a lot time exploring the said province. Every weekend I tend to have my vacation spree there and accompanying by Julie (my couz), we roam around Bulacan, and our first stop is Malolos.

When I was young, I've been admiring a church behind the 10 peso bill which is the historical Barasoain Church.

Inside the Church

My Aunt lives in Plaridel Bulacan, just 20 minutes from the Malolos town proper.

From Manila, there are lots of buses going to Malolos and other part of Bulacan. You can ride a bus at Cubao terminal station or in Tutuban RL bus liner in Divisoria just beside the PNR station going to Hagonoy or Malolos, then ask the driver to drop you in crossing where you will then ride a smaller jeepney with a sign "Malolos Bayan" this jeep will pass in front of the church right side, or just tell the driver to drop you to Barasoain Church. The fare costs P40.00 for ordinary buses and P60.00 for air-con. From Manila it will take an hour to reach the Barasoain Church.

The Convent

This church surpasses lots of important events in our history. Some of which were, the convening of the First Philippine Congress in 1898, drafting the Malolos constitution 1899 and the Inauguration of the First Philippine Republic.

I arrived very late so I didn't have the chance to visit the museum beside the church, where the old carriage and other church's memorabilia situated.

You can see this statue of Mary carries dying Jesus behind the church.

Mini Plaza in front of the church.

If you arrived late and waiting for the next mass to start, you can stay here.

The side door of the church, I don't why it's closed and if they open it once in a while.

Bantay Ilocos Sur: Bell Tower

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:12:00 +0000

Bantay Bell Tower, Vigan Ilocos Sur

Another rainy weekend when Jhen and the "gang" decided to go up north and discover the land of where the ancient houses built. According to history, It was used as a watchtower for invading enemy forces during World Wars I and II. Evidently, the Bantay Church and bell tower are the monumental witnesses to various atrocities, uprisings and staged revolts.

Bohol: Dauis Church | The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 18:27:00 +0000

The town of Dauis is located in the Island of Panglao, on the side facing Tagbilaran City. Panglao Island nestles closely to the main province of Bohol and is connected to the mainland by two causeways. Located 3.1 kilometers southwest of Tagbilaran, the Dauis Church is visible across the narrow channel from Tagbilaran and can be reached by hiking through a pleasant path, or by riding a motor bike or car. Passenger jeepneys and mini-buses ply the Tagbilaran-Panglao route through three directions; a tourist may simply ask at the terminal as to which ride passes thru Dauis town. Fare: P6.50.

The church occupies a strip of land on the shore of Panglao Island opposite Tagbilaran City. One of the most beautiful churches of Bohol, one gets an excellent view of the church and convento from the Mansasa seaside as one travels from Tagbilaran to Baclayon. The approach from the Gov. Jacinto Borja Bridge also gives an impressive view of this church.

-- Exterior Design --

The present church is a mixture of artistic styles. The Gothic influence, as mentioned in an 1886 report, is manifested in the tower and its half-built twin: the bases of the towers feature narrow lancet windows, and the uppermost level of the sole belfry, constructed in 1938-1939, bristles with pointed arches, spires, and crockets. The commemorative inscription “ Fr. Saldana”, placed on the frieze of the main entrance, can still be made out despite so many renovations.

The church in Dauis is one of the sophisticated and complex structures of its kind in Bohol. Built according to a plan for basilicas, that is, with a high central nave flanked by lower aisles, certain innovations have been added such as a pair of extensions to form “transepts “. The transept “arms” are unique, as their walls are built diagonal to the nave, instead of the common right-angle configuration. The crossing is topped by a cupola in the shape of a low octagonal pyramid.

The church’s front has a portico which shades the width of the entrance. Above the portico is the second level façade, built in an ornamental neoclassic style. This extension encloses the choir loft, a common feature in Bohol churches.

Even the apse has a grand entrance of its own. Open spaces on three sides of the church allow an excellent view of the architectural design and heighten its monumentality.

-- Early History --

Even before the Spaniards arrived, Dauis was already well-populated as shown by early Chinese artifacts retrieved in the area in the 1970’s. The first Spanish missionaries arrived in Dauis in 1697. According to Javellana, after 1753, the Jesuits moved their main residence from Loboc, in the interior of Bohol, to Dauis by the seashore.

On 1768, the Jesuits were expelled from the Philippines and all Jesuit missions were turned over to Augustinian Recollects. The Recollects administered the Dauis church until1898 when the Filipinos revolted against the Spaniards.

Based upon Jesuit records, a church of light materials may have been built in Dauis earlier. By 1753, another church with a convento was finished under Rev. Fr. Joseph Nepomuceno, a Jesuit. The Recollects built another church of bamboo and wood in 1769, but this was burned in 1795, thus necessitating the construction of a fourth church. An 1886 report described this church as made of tabigue and roofed with nipa. This must be the one immortalized by a painting on the ceiling on the sala of the convento.

The present church, the 5th, was started by Rev. Fr. Julio Saldana, a Recollect, in 1863. This was a meter more in length than the older one, but 9 meters more in width, and 6 meters more in height. The first level façade was completed in 1879.

Fr. Saldana had his name and date finished written on the frieze above the principal arcade. But by January 1884, the 4 arches supported by a column holding up the cupola collapsed. Repairs were made; a second tower was built but left unfinished as it stands today. The upper level of the façade was completed in the early 1920’s by. Rev. Fr. Natalio del Mar. The church was consecrated by Bishop Juan Gorordo of Cebu on August 23, 1923. In 1924, a cross was installed over the pediment; 61 years after Fr. Saldana laid its cornerstone.

-- Interior Design --

Upon entrance to the church, one finds four massive posts, 2 meters long by 1.5 meters wide, supporting the portico that shoulders the choir loft. The retablos or altars in this church are a mixture of styles, most probably recycled parts from structures of different historical periods. The center altar, where stands the image of Our Lady of the Assumption, is in the form of a temple, not a wall-like retablo. The side altars, in the transepts, have 18th century twisted columns. The niches are neoclassic. The image of Our Lady of Consolation occupies the largest niche in the gospel retablo. Above it is that of the Child Jesus, and below it that of St. Jude.

The wooden pulpit of Spanish times, carved with designs, still stands. Two antique confessionals are still in use. This church has one of the most beautiful Stations of the Cross. It has uniformed benches and well-kept tiled floors.

... history courtesy of bohol-philippines.com ...

Bohol: Panglao Church | St. Augustine Church

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:12:00 +0000

The church of St. Augustine stands on the southwestern side of Panglao Island, and is 18 kilometers from Tagbilaran City, the capital of the province of Bohol. It snugly nestles on a plain, its back close to the seashore, its right side facing a big, wide plaza which serves as the venue of the town’s many religious and social activities. In addition to the massive stone church which is clearly of Spanish-time vintage, one can see across the spacious plaza other landmarks of Spain’s occupation: the watch tower, said to be the tallest of its kind in the Philippines, and the old municipal building and school houses made of huge stone blocks.

The church can be reached from Tagbilaran City by vans and cars, or the cheaper way by the jeepneys and mini-buses that ply the Tagbilaran – Panglao routes. All three routes to Panglao from the capital converge in the area where the St. Augustine Church stands. Fare: P20.

Early History

In the records of the diocese, Panglao was established as a parish by the Jesuits in 1782.The Recollects’ records show that they took charge of Panglao town in 1803.

The extant church, imposing and awe-inspiring especially if viewed from its right side, stands beside the ruins of an older church, probably from Jesuit times. The ruin’s façade indicate that it may have been Baroque in design. This church was ruined before 1886. Church records show that a provisional church, made of tabigue and wood, was constructed.

To the rear of the ruins, further off to the seashore, stands a 5-storey bell tower built of cut stone in 1851. Octagon in shape and covered by a pitched roof, the tower is said to be the tallest of its kind in the Philippines. This tower as a heritage of the past needs urgent restoration.

Rev. Fr. Valentin Utande, a Recollect, started building this church in 1894 up to 1897 when he was transferred to another parish. Two other Spanish priests, Rev. Fr. Eugenio Gil and Rev. Fr. Pedro Jimenez continued the construction slowly until 1898 when the Filipino revolution against Spanish authority broke out. The construction was abandoned as there were no more Spanish priests assigned in Panglao.

In 1912, Rev. Fr. Emiliano Veloso was assigned parish priest and he continued the construction with the whole-hearted cooperation of the church leaders, town officials, and residents of Panglao. A greater part of the nave was done in 1920, and by 1924, even if still unfinished, a 4-day inauguration affair was scheduled, with Bishop Juan B. Gorordo of Cebu celebrating the Inaugural Mass and Blessing on Sunday, August 31, 1924.

Church Design

The church’s concrete façade has the typical portico-façade with fancy Corinthian capitals. The portico and bell tower, both added later, blend well with the original character of the church. There is the choir loft, usually found in Bohol churches, above the main entrance. In cruciform, the church has had extensions to accommodate the growing faithful.

Church Interior

There are three richly carved retablos or altars in front, all closely placed to the wall. The main or center retablo, facing the nave, has the icon of the patron saint, St. Augustine, a doctor of the church, occupying the upper center niche. Beneath this, to the left, is the niche for St. Joseph, the foster father of Jesus, and to the right, that of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Above the main altar is a dome, its base hexagonal in form, and its ceiling filled with a mural of the Blessed Trinity surrounded by eight divisions of angels.

Convent

The huge, massive convento, L-shaped in form, is made up of masonry at the lower level, and of wood at the upper level. Part of it has been converted into a Catholic high school, the SAGA or St. Augustine Academy. In front of the convent are the ruins of the lower façade of the original stone church, now incorporated into an outer grotto.

... history courtesy of bohol-philippines.com ...

Alona Beach Panglao, Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 17:57:00 +0000

Alona Beach was located at Panglao Island and is known for its pristine clear water, white sand and a home for 5 star hotel and resort at Bohol. If you want to live a luxurious life here in Panglao, resorts near the Alona Beach is the best place for you.

Luckily, we found a resort near Alona beach that suits a traveler on a budget like us. This hotel named Cherry's @ home is the best place for us. Air conditioned room with private toilet and bath plus a personal fridge for the price of PHP1000 for 2 persons is a good choice.

During night time, you can experience the total nightlife that you can found in Manila, except for the sea waves of course. Bars here offer live bands and liquors of your choice. Lighted trees well complemented the ambiance of the open bar.

Bohol's Hinagdanan Cave | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 17:31:00 +0000

Hinagdanan Cave (laddered cave) was located at Dauis Panglao in the province of Bohol. The cave has a very clear lagoon about 10 feet deep and is open to public who wants to take a deep. Through its clean water you can actually see small fishes and other water creature. You will also mesmerized with its stalagmites and stalactites.

The cave was naturally lighted by the sun coming from the holes in the ceiling. It is made of limestone and is within easy reach. Before, you have to hold onto the railings made of rope so as not to slip because of the slippery stones inside the cave, but as time goes, they change the rope into metallic stainless railings to add more security to the tourists and guests.

Hinagdanan Cave was accidentally discovered when the owner of the area was clearing the decaying branches of the land when he found the hole. The owner throw a stone into the hole, then he heard a splash. Then he build a ladder to get into the cave. They named it Hinagdanan, means "laddered" used to get into the cave's interior.

The cave is about 100 meters long of beautiful rock formations. The stalactites and stalagmites stick out from the ceiling and floor of the cave as though trying to meet each other. Inside the cave, there's also a lagoon whith a greenish surface produced by the green limestone at the bottom of the pool, where people used to bath in the lagoon.

The Lagoon inside the cave

Mysterious drawings into the cave's wall. Our guide said that this was a man-made art by some foreigners who stayed here during the caves first exploration. They just don't know when was the exact date and who was the guy responsible for it.

Loboc River of Bohol | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 16:37:00 +0000

The Loboc River is a river on Bohol Island, the Philippines. It is one of the major tourist destinations of Bohol, local and foreigners alike. The winding river plays host to cruises on board of small bancas or floating restaurants. Visitors are treated to a vista of lush tropical vegetation such as nipa palms, coconut trees, banana groves, and bushes.

The river plays a significant role in the history of Loboc before the Spaniards established the town in 1602. The early inhabitants made homes along the river.

It was in early 1980s that the idea to promote the Loboc River as a tourist destination started.

A cruise along the river starts either from the Loay Bridge (in Loay) or at the Poblacion of Loboc. The Loay Bridge is 20 kilometers (12 mi) from Tagbilaran City while the Poblacion is about 25 kilometers (16 mi) away. Small motorized bancas can be chartered for a minimal fee. For those who want to eat while cruising, floating restaurants are available offering Filipino cuisine buffet and local delicacies that costs P400 per head or more.

With the tourism fever, the floating restaurants were envisioned providing tourists with a first class dining experience on board floating restaurants. The floating vessels are made up of a covered platform on top of two large outrigger boats which are joined together. The boats can accommodate up to 50 people.

Most of the floating restaurants treat their guests with Boholano songs played by in-boat bands during the cruise. The trip winds up the river and ends at the Busay Falls which is only one and a half meter at most. Here, the guests are treated to rondalla music by a local rondalla group housed under a floating cottage.

Local folks usually take a dip in the waters and enjoy bathing under the falls. Guests who have brought with them extra clothes are welcome to swim and bathe and experience the heady feeling of a refreshing swim in the river’s unpolluted waters.

According to our tour guide Manong Rick, this river watch floating restaurant offers the most sumptuous dishes among other restaurant.

Entertainer/Performer

While eating, we realize that Manong Rick was quite right about his tastes.

Busay Falls

Going to and from the Busay Falls, visitors are treated to a spectacle of children diving from a large coconut tree that is leaning out towards the river. One will feel a bit tense seeing the children climbing up the tree and then plunging towards the deep waters. From the looks of it, the part of the tree where the children usually dive from is more than 10 feet (3.0 m) from the river.

Along the way, one can see children swimming and people passing by in small bancas or canoes. Upstream, and located on the eastern bank of the river, the Nuts Huts Resort is seen. This resort is a favorite hang-out for bikers and hikers who prefer the peaceful and scenic surroundings of the river bank rather than the majestic allure of the sea.

Another area worth visiting is where wild chickens, turtles, and pythons are kept in captivity. On this trips, visitors are given the time to marvel at the surrounding landscape. After a while, the return trip starts. Since the trip is going downstream, it takes a shorter time for the boats to arrive at the starting point.

Please sign the Petition now and save Palawan

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 15:34:00 +0000

No To Mining in Palawan...

The brochure says it all...

A 10million signature campaign against illegal mining in Palawan..

I have a litte knowledge about what mining really is... all i know is that mining needs to carve holes inside a mountain by the use of dynamite and other explosive materials, also manpower is very useful in this industy... It also requires cutting down thousands of trees which only equivalents to destroying the animals natural habitat..

Palawan is a home for almost a half of Philippines endangered and rare species, it also cradled millions of our flora and fauna and has 7 key biodiversity. Many part of Palawan was declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site, this only means that those areas were protected and need to be well kept. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River was nominated as one of the Wonders of the World, this is why I am very sad and annoyed knowing that the government let mining companies to freely conduct their exploration in most places in Palawan, I also heard that some Local Government officials conspires with mining companies in exchange of none else...money!

Yet again hope comes in...public high school students 15 years old and above together with their heroic teachers let theirselves involved in this timely issue to help Palawan survive and to finally stop mining cruelty to nature. Each one of the students handed over a petition form and let their families, friends or even neighbors to sign and participate in this cause.

Imagine... if all of the students here in the Philippines can accomplish a petition form and let others sign in, we can actually fullfill the 10 million signature campaign in No to Mining in Palawan..

You can also have your voice heard... Just log in to no2mininginpalawan.com

Please... please sign the petition now and let our voices heard... Lets bring to life the spirit BAYANIHAN, besides this is where we filipinoes have known for right...A filipino for a Filipino...

Every Vote Counts :)
Godbless PALAWAN...

Bilar's Man-made Forest | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:24:00 +0000

Freshest cool breeze, tallest mahogany, well preserved and a perfect shed from the sun...

Those were some of the characteristics that a man made forest of bohol had. The moment i stepped foot on this man made wonder i suddenly felt a cool fresh wind that came from the mahogany trees's shed. These mahogany trees according to our tour guide Manong Rick, was a nationwide reforestation project of past President to the Philippines Diosdado Macapagal in the year 1960, led by Governor Lino Chatto, thousands of Mahogany seedlings were spreaded and planted over a 850 hectares of open area which stretches from Loboc to Bilar town.

O.M. Boholanos actually preserved this sanctuary for ages??? amazing isnt it...?

This made me questioned Jhen... what if the whole Philippines were like this, well preserved and well protected, all Filipinos will be perfectly healthy maybe, and won't get ill caused by air pollution, and none of us will be drown from floods and landslide wont happen...and we wont suffer from hot afternoon and unpredictable wheather caused by climate change

Just Thinking...

Bohol's Bingag Zoo | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:46:00 +0000

While riding in a habal-habal (motorcycle) and roaming around Panglao in search for peanut kisses, Jhen and I spotted another tourist spot in Bingag, the Ostrich Farm and Bingag Zoo.

Bingag Zoo was located at Bingag on the south-west of Panglao Island, a 20mins drive from Tagbilaran City.

This zoo is a home for Ostrich couple and their eggs.

Male ostrich named JACK


his wife ROSE

Jack and Rose??? Titanic??? Well, these Ostriches were named after the lead actor and actress of the1997 movie The Titanic. Sadly I couldn't come close cause their beak can actually hit my head.

Ostrich eggs


Python

Squirrel

Eagle

Iguanna

I experienced holding an Iguanna without a single feared bone on my body knowing that this very creature scared me a lot when I was just a kid. Well a little trust to our guide and much of courage made this photo possible.

This was also the first time taht I handed over a cute little, cuddly Bunny. I was hesitant at first because I thought that Rabbit bits people then left them with a deadly rabbies, and their mucous and urine can cause leptospirosis as of with the rats... but of course I am wrong, misconception I must say... blah, blah, blah.. STUPID ME...!!!!! hahahahaha...

They also have stuffs like this, well serves as a play ground for children and a perfect spot for picture taking, just like Jhen :)

Souvineer shop can be found in the main entrance, peanut kisses, native bags and other souvineers can be found here.

This Bingag Ostrich Farm and zoo is very educational and will surely enjoy by kids and kids at heart like us :)

Cherry's Home, Tawala Panglao, Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:45:00 +0000

After a long day of our Bohol countryside tour, our tired feet and exhausted bodies were longing for a comfortable place to stay. Maybe due to exhaustion, our driver/tour guide Manong Rick happened to pass over the resort where Me and Jhen supposed to check-in, and that was in Dauis, Panglao. We prefer to have our reservation at one of the hotels in Panglao because the boat that we used for our sea tour were located at Alona beach.

Unlimited use of air condition, a private toilet and bath, 2 beds, a refrigerator plus an honest and trust worthy housekeeper made our P1000.00/day worthy.

We had an enjoyable stay at Cherry's @ Home because of the peaceful environment and courteous staff plus the presence of security guard made us feel that we our safe and secure.

They offer free use of swimming pool located at cherry's @ home too and other amenities, use of microwaveable oven is free of charge and if you want to have your meal home cooked, they will prepare it for you for only P100.00 per dish.

If so happen that your stomach is longing for food and not that choosy, you can eat at the nearby "carinderia" for an affordable food and variety of dish to choose from, P50.00 is all you need to enjoy a complete meal. Beside the Carinderia is a sari-sari store, so everything you need were just steps away. And if you're craving for something to eat on stick, barbeque is their answer for your drooling mouth.

If you want to experience such goodnight sleep as we did, you can have your reservations done at

Cherry's @ Home

Cherrys @ Home Too

Tawala Panglao Bohol

Philippines 6340

Email Address: mail@cherryshome.com

Tel. Nos. (0063) 38 5024049

Mobile No. Smart(0063) 9088921412 Smart(0063) 9497172333

*DISCLAIMER*

This is not a paid advertisement. This is for the readers looking for accommodations in Bohol

The Ship Haus... | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 14:50:00 +0000

After a long day of tripping and exploring Bohol, finally we've come to the "almost" last part, well i called it almost because we thought The Ship Haus were the last on our list. This spot were featured in a local tv show here in the Philippines, owned by a Ship Captain whose very fascinated in his craft to made him built a house like this.

Unfortunately, due to lots of delays in Loboc river we came here late so we didn't manage to come inside the house and explore the so called barracks. You can actually rent a room here and serves as a hotel. Live your stay here as if youre in a real ship, except for the waves ofcourse.

Prony the Python in Alburquerque | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:27:00 +0000

Jhen and I were both shocked when our tour guide kuya Rick instructs us to enter Prony's cave. We were anxious at first because Prony's care taker told us that her "baby" can eat 2 big goats or 60 kilos of pig meat in a single meal. "O.M Prony can actually swallow me" good thing Prony just finished his meal so hes harmless and won't turned us into a sumptuous meal.

Frightened Me

Managed to have a nice shot

What a Courageous Me

Undies made from Prony's Skin

Marimar in the middle. The Gay performer

There are lots of souvenirs and native delicacies sold here. From peanut kisses and rice cake to hand-knitted bags and crafted key chains.

Calamay (sticky rice cake) on a coconut shell

Calamay in Plastic Container

Hand-knitted Bags

Crafted Key Chains

Sweet Peanut Kisses

Delectable Peanut Fingers

Peanut kisses sold at PHP120 or USD3 per pack of 16 pieces while the peanut fingers were PHP115 or USD2.80 per pack of 15 pieces.

and a Hat

Kuya Rick said that calamay and peanut kisses that sold here is cheaper compare to other stores, and again he is right... Other stores sold Calamay for PHP40 and Peanut Kisses for PHP140.

Philippine Tarsier | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 09:31:00 +0000

"Philippine Tarsier... The world's smallest monkey" is an often slogan to this tiny primates that can be found in their natural habitat at Corella Bohol, Philippines. The adult tarsier is too small that fits in a man's hand.

Sleeping Tarsier

Not larger than my hand

Smiling Tarsier

Make sure that your camera's flash is turned off when taking pictures, for the Tarsiers were photo sensitive and known for being nocturnal animals.

Unfortunately, Tarsiers were a very delicate type of animals. You cannot touch nor held them with your hands because they are prone to stress.

***For further readings please log on to Bohol-Philippines.com***

Virgin Island | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:23:00 +0000

I was so fascinated when i saw Virgin Island. The long stretch of white sand in between deep sea water is what i like the most. I was wondering, how does this long sandy beaches formed, you will actually count ages if you try making this manually.

If your tired enough taking pictures and touring the entire island, this is the perfect spot for you... The improvised tent with stool chair and small table suit for a picnic. They also offer refreshments like carbonated drinks and Buko (coconut) Juice. Just brace yourself for the prices were a little bit high compare to SRP (suggested reatil price)

The Island Model... Jhen

During high tide

Virgin Island on the other side

Long stretch of white sand

Trees and Bushes

The only residents of the Island... Trees

From the Panglao Island Bohol, riding a boat going to Virgin Island took us about 15-20 minutes. The island named Virgin because nobody reside there, maybe because during high tide the island tend to sink and some trees and bushes were the only thing visible.

The Underwater Beauty of Balicasag Island | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 07:46:00 +0000

Wow..!!! is the only word that comes out on our mouth the first time we saw the underwater perfection of the Balicasag Island in Bohol. It is our first time to do snorkeling, yet the Balicasag Island didn't fail to amaze us. Jhen and I were both speechless on what we saw, perfect corals formation, friendly fishes and seaweeds.

A very peaceful ambiance underneath made me fantasize of a perfect world... people at peace and harmony, then a snap!!!!... yeah yeah, I'm just dreaming and maybe just overwhelmed of what's around me.

Those fishes were very accommodating. Maybe they thought we people were harmless haha..!

Here's Nemo!!!

Finally I found Nemo..!!!

and again a PEACE SIGN.. hehehe :))

The only thing that I managed to do was peace sign and a THUMBS-UP!!!

I am really astonished on what I experienced. You will surely appreciate and love nature when you try this :)

***It's just frustrating that someone can afford to lose and destroy such wealth like this in exchange for money***

Amazing Chocolate Hills | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 19:32:00 +0000

I learned Bohol's Chocolate hills from my teachers in grade school. Since then I always thought of going to Bohol and eat chocolates from the hills and that the Chocolate hills were made out of real chocolates. But not until my mom told me that the chocolate hills were just a formation of rock and soil.

Yeah..!!! 214 steps before you see the majestic Chocolate Hills. Tiring isn't it??? but I can assure all the strain that you felt on your way up will be vanish when you see it.

Kuya Rick our driver/tour guide told us a brief history of Chocolate Hills, he said, during the ancient years, Bohol was just a huge huge corals or rock formation under water, and the hills were created by the waves. We were hesitant at first but when we saw the coral like substance of the flattened mountain side along the way, we both agreed that he's certain on what he said..

I am ecstatic that I finally saw the Famous Chocolate Hills. I have another pictures and memory to boast, hahahaha :)

Bohol: Baclayon Church | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 16:57:00 +0000

The history of the church of Baclayon dates back to the time when the first Spanish missionaries who hailed from Cebu, Fr. Juan de Torres and Fr. Gabriel Sanchez, settled in the area on November 17, 1596 and a visita was erected soon after.

The first church that the natives of the area constructed was built of bamboo with thatched roofing. It was then the residence of their Superior General and called the “Residencia” or center of the Bohol missions. The mission spread to the hinterlands of Bohol and in 1596, Fr. Juan de Torres established another settlement in Loboc.

But the peace and order situation in this coastal settlement was often broken by raids done by Moro invaders. After a vicious attack on the settlement, the Jesuit Missionaries moved the center of their missionary activities to the inland village of Loboc on October 26, 1600.

Loboc became a parish in 1602 and from that time until the 18th century, it played host to the “Residencia”. Meanwhile, life in the Baclayon settlement went on as usual. Steadfast in their faith, the people did not join their Bohol comrades in raising arms against the Spanish conquistadors during the Tamblot or Diwata Uprising in 1621.

The Bell Tower

Father Pio's face in the wall

Finally, in 1717, the settlement was raised to the status of a parish and construction of a new and sturdier church and a 21meters high bell tower began. Through forced labor, 200 natives worked on the church until its completion in 1727.

Some of the artisans were assigned to get the coral stones far off in the sea. Others hauled them to the site while the skilful ones cut the coral stones into square blocks. The square blocks were then lifted and moved into position using bamboo poles and eventually piled like bricks. The white of a million eggs were used with lime to cement the coral stones together.

Somewhere underneath the Baclayon Church is a dungeon where natives who violated the rules of the Spaniards and of the Roman Catholic Church were imprisoned. Beside the back portion of the church was built a convent which now houses a museum containing religious relics, artifacts and other antiquities dating back to the 16th century.

Because the foundation of the church was laid in 1717, this makes Baclayon Church the second oldest stone church in the Philippines; second to that of the San Agustin Church located in Real Street, Intramuros, Manila, whose foundation is said to have been laid in 1571. The church was then dedicated to the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

The Altar

The Front Door

Convent

Later in 1835, a large bell was installed and in the 19th century, the Augustinian Recollects added the front facade of the church with its three arches and a number of stone buildings which now surrounds the church. All these are still standing at present making it the most preserved church in Bohol.

**** History courtesy of Bohol-Philippines.com ****

Bohol's Must Try..!!! | Frolics in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (Riki) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:04:00 +0000

Being locked up home with minimal fun, I always wanted to try different things especially while on travel. And to my hunger for adventure and something diverse, I ought to myself that I will do everything to make the most out of my trips and try something outburst..

Food

Boholano's Calamay in plastic container

Boholano's Calamay in Coconut Shell (native sweet delicacies)

Boholano's Calamay (sticky rice cake) is a must try because of its unique taste and texture. It is sweet and perfect as a meryenda (afternoon snack). It made of glutenous rice plus coco milk and muscovado (raw sugar). Sold for PHP35 less than USD1 each or 3 pcs. for PHP100 or USD2.50.

Peanut Kisses

Peanut Fingers

A delectable product of Bohol, perfect with Salabat (ginger tea) and or coffee. Best for pasalubong or snacks. Made with egg white, peanuts, sugar and vanilla. This sweets made me miss Bohol much... The peanut kisses sold at PHP120 or USD3 per pack of 16 pieces while the peanut fingers were PHP115 or USD2.80 per pack of 15 pieces.

Sea Urchin

I am always puzzle on what sea urchins tastes like, well at long last i finally tasted it at Bohol.

You can buy this at Virgin Island for PHP40 each or less than USD1. It tastes like crab fats with soft, fluffy texture. You can eat it raw dipped in vinegar.

Adventure

..on Land..

Don't leave Chocolate hills without renting an ATV car. Tour around chocolate hills with this four-wheeled motorcycle is an unforgettable experience, get up-close to the breath taking chocolate hills and meet the beautiful Boholanos on way.

The ATV rental costs PHP400 pesos or USD4.50

This was my first time... Good thing they have tutorials beforehand.

On our way to up-close Chocolate Hills

whew..!!! Finally... Breathtaking.. :)

We've wanted to stay longer... But sadly we can't :(

..Underwater..

It's our First Time

The moment we deepened our face to the water to see what's within, the only word that comes out on our mouth was WOW, and the only thing I can do was a THUMBS UP..!!!... It's really amazing to see God's creations.. Fishes, corals, sea weeds etc. ahh.. I love it so much :))))

Very Peaceful

Feed the Fish

You should try this when you go to Bohol for a change... Something different and outrageous.