Insights

Batanes Accommodation

2010-03-25T01:00:00.002+08:00

Batanes is a small island with limited number of hotels and accommodations, during peak season some of the accommodations are fully booked so I'm sharing a list of hotels/inns with their contact numbers that I got from the airport. You may find this useful when planning a trip so you can choose where to stay and plan your budget accordingly. There are a couple of resorts and some inns and homestay that you can choose from. I took some photos of the hotel/inns that we saw along the way to give you an idea how it looks.

Batanes Resort: Basco, Batanes

Contact No.: 0920-5650399 / 0927-5829078

Rate : P1,800/day

Fundacion Pacita: Chanarian - Tukon, Basco Batanes

Contact Info: Manila Address:
Room 308, Philippine Social Science Center Bldg., Commonwealth Ave, Quezon City
Contact Number.: +639272902404 / 929-2602
E-mail: inquiries@fundacionpacita.ph and myla.pisig@fundacionpacita.ph

Rate: P7,500 - P13,500 minimum of 2 nights

Ivatan Lodge: Kaychanarianan, Basco Batanes

Contact No.: 0928-2451337

Email Address: ivatanlodge@ yahoo.com

Rates: Single 300, Double 400, Triple 600, Family 750 (fan rooms)

Pension Ivatan: Kayvaluganan, Basco Batanes

Contact No.: 0929-2074643 / 0905-3035855

Rates: P1,500-1,800 with breakfast

Pension Ivatan in Valugan Bay near Boulder Beach

Shanedels Inn and Cafe: Kaychanarianan, Basco Batanes

Contact No.: 0920-4470737

Seaside Lodge and Restaurant: Basco, Batanes

Contact No.: 0921-2290120 / 0915-9404823

Rate: P1,000

Homestay Association

Contact No.: 0919-8802444 / 0926-9015689

Rate: Triple Room - 900, Single and Double Room 600/room/day

DDD Habitat Inc.: Kayvaluganan, Basco Batanes

Contact No.: 0908-8518766

Brandon's Lodge: Basco Batanes

Contact No.: 0919-3662158

Rate: P1,000-1,200

Related Posts:
Batanes Resort
Batanes Itinerary

Batanes Accommodation: Batanes Resort

2010-03-24T10:13:00.157+08:00

Batanes Resort is a government owned resort with 6 hillside cottages with 2 bedrooms each. The outer walls of the cottages are made of stones which appears to look like the old Ivatan house. What I like most about this resort is that the cottages are facing the South China Sea on the right with matching view of the hills with cows eating grasses on the left and at the back of the cottages. Our window is a life size window so I can go out of the window and stay in the little garden with grasses to see the lush vegetation of the resort. This is the vacation that I was looking for, just the view of the nature around the cottage is enough to make you feel relax and stress free. We were also lucky because the room that they gave us (ITBAYAT Room) has the most strategic location with nice scenic view. I heard from the staffs that the Sabtang and Itbayat rooms are the most sought after rooms because of the scenic view by the window.

The room is clean and cozy enough especially at night when the lamps are on. Our room accommodation has an intercom, air condition, clean toilet and bath, 2 beds and writing desk. They make up the room everyday and refill the tissue,soap,shampoo and toothpaste.

This is the entrance of the Batanes Resort, they have ample parking space and a simple reception area. The reception area is also facing the sea so the cold breeze outside is felt inside the area. The location of the resort is strategic enough, you can hire a tricycle from the airport worth P50/ride or you can hire a van from the hotel to tour you around Batanes.

This is a photo of the sunset from the dining area. They have 2 areas for dining, one is inside the hall where there are crystal chandeliers with cozy lighting and tables covered with cloth with flower centerpiece. The other area is more of outdoor where you can dine facing the sea, hills and vegetation where they get the organic veggies they serve in our meal. The food in the resort is delectable, they always serve a meal with veggies, beef and seafood. We found out that in Batanes the pork is much more expensive than beef so the usual meal always include beef rather than pork. You can also buy goods from the market and have it cooked by the resort chef with a fee.

They said this is the only resort with access to the beach, but the way to the beach is kinda jungle. You have to go down at least 30-50 steps then you have to pass by an area with tall grasses and trees and look for the open fence. There are no clear path to the beach maybe because the beach in front is a marine sanctuary so it's not open for public use. It was low tide when we went there so I was able to capture some underwater creatures, it was indeed a marine sanctuary because you can see the corals and fishes from the shore plus there's a police cottage behind who secures the area.

Batanes Resort Room Accommodation:   1,800/day

Meals:
- Breakfast ----------------------- P100.00
- Lunch      ----------------------- P175-250.00
- Dinner     ----------------------- P175-250.00

Hall Rentals:
- Private Parties --------------- P3,000.00
- Seminar/Meetings ------------- P2,000.00

Car rentals ------------------------- P1,500/day

Services:

        * Six hillside cottages
        * All air-conditioned rooms
        * Single or Double beds
        * Hot & cold shower
        * Private toilet and bath facility
        * Room intercom
        * Free airport transfers
        * Free ticket confirmation
        * Cable TV in every room
        * Restaurant/Coffee shop
        * Outdoor dining area
        * Spacious Parking area
        * Function hall/Meeting area
        * With private access to a marine sanctuary
        * With scenic ambiance facing South China sea
        * Hosts private parties, seminars & trainings
        * With service vehicle
        * 24-hour security service
        * With own organic vegetable garden

For reservations and inquiries you may contact Batanes Resort at 0927-5829078

Related Post:
Batanes Accommodation
Batanes Itinerary

Sierra Madre Resort Accommodation and Rates

2010-03-22T10:55:00.022+08:00

Hotel Rooms and Cottages Rates:

Standard Room (2pax) -------------------------- 1,500/day
Spring Valley Room (5pax) ---------------------- 2,500/day
Barcelona & Gobatnon Suite (5pax)--------- 2,500/day
VIP Room --------------------------------------- 2,000/day
Isabel Suite -------------------------------------- 4,000/day
Sorsogon Suite (6pax) --------------------------- 3,000/day
San Jose/Aurea Suite (5pax) --------------------- 2,500/day
Tierry/Henry/Lolitta Suite (5pax) ----------------- 2,500/day
San Ramon Suite (4pax) ------------------------- 2,000/day
Masbate/Albay/Mayon (8pax) ------------------- 3,700/day
Daet/Isarog/Legaspi (10pax) --------------------- 4,500/day
Virac/Catanduanes/Camarines Sur (7pax) -------- 3,000/day
Naga with Aircon (10pax) ----------------------- 5,000/day
Camarines Norte (10pax) ------------------------ 5,000/day

Overlooking Rooms (6-7pax) Bulusan, Barcelona,
Prieto Diaz,Bulan,Irosin,Juban,Sta.Magdalena,
Matnog,Pilar ------------------------------------- 3,500/day
Overlooking Rooms (4pax) Donsol, Magallanes,
Casiguran ---------------------------------------- 2,500/day
Gubat House (7pax) ----------------------------- 4,500/day
Spring Valley Rooms (10pax) -------------------- 4,500/day

Activities Rates:

Entrance Fee ------------------------------------ 100/head
Spring Valley Pool ------------------------------ 150/Adult, 100/Child /day
Camping or Picnic ------------------------------ 100/head
Horseback Riding ------------------------------- 200/hr or 50/head 3 rounds
Billiards ----------------------------------------- 100/hr
Golf 18 Holes ----------------------------------- 200/Player
Pitch and Putt ----------------------------------- 200/Player
Videoke ---------------------------------------- 200/hr
Mahjong --------------------------------------- 400/day
Firing Range ------------------------------------ 200/hr (bring your own Ammo and Firearms)
Camping Overnight ----------------------------- 350/head

For Seminar, Wedding, Retreat or Conference Use of:

Sierra Madre Hall ------------------------------- 35,000/day
Azotea ------------------------------------------ 3,500/day
Spring Valley Hall ------------------------------- 3,000/day
Bulusan Hall (150 persons) ---------------------- 3,000/ 1st 3 hrs Succeeding 900/hr
Garden Wedding -------------------------------- 15,000/day
Clubhouse 1&2 --------------------------------- 2,000/day

Contact Details:

The Sierra Madre
KM 58 Marcos Highway Mayagay Tanay, Rizal
Tel Nos. 913-2001 * 911-3759
Mobile No. 0919-8674985

This is the view of the rooms overlooking the mountains.

This is the photo of their Standard room. The room is big enough for two persons. It has a toilet and bath but with no air condition. No need to worry because the weather here is cold like Tagaytay.

Batanes Itinerary

2010-03-21T13:20:00.051+08:00

For those who are planning a trip to Batanes you may want to get an idea of what Batanes can offer so I am sharing our 5 days 4 nights Batanes Itinerary. Feel free to message me if you have questions, I'll be posting more of Batanes soon...

5 DAYS 4 NIGHTS ITINERARY

Day 1

*Airport Arrival / Pick-up (Depends on Carrier)
*Check-in at Batanes Resort

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
- Breakfast
- Introduction
- Orientation
- Rest

12:00 NN - 1:00 PM
- Lunch

1:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Batan Island Tour (Northern Part)
- Tukon Radar Station
- Tukon Chapel
- Idjan (Ivatan Fortress)
- Sunset Viewing: Naidi Hills (Old Settlement/Light House)
- Vayang Ranch (Rolling Hills)
- Valugan Boulder Beach

Day 2

7:00 AM – 6:30 AM
-Early Breakfast

8:00 AM – 12:NN

Bataan Island Tour (Southern Part)
- Chawa View Deck
- Mahatao Town tour
- Mahatao Old Church
- Breateria
- Spanish Light House
- Homoron Blue Lagoon / White Beach Area
- Ivana town tour
- Vernacular Houses (House of Dakay)
- Old Spanish Bridge
- San Jose Church Ruins
- Honesty Coffee Shop

12:00 NN - 1:00 PM
- Lunch (Marlboro Country)

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Batan Island Tour (Southern Part)
- Uyugan town tour
- Song-song Ruins (Ghost Town)
- Alapad of loran station ruins
- Itbud community
- Racuh-a-payaman (Marlboro Country)
- Sumhao Windmills

Day 3

Sabtang Tour
5:30 AM - 6:00 AM
- Early Breakfast

6:15 AM - 6:45 AM
- 30 Mins - 45 Mins Travel to San Vicente Port
*Boat Station to Sabtang Island

7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
- Boat Ride to Sabtang
*45 Mins Ride (Batan Island - Sabtang Island)

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- Savidug Vernacular Houses / Traditional Lime Kilns
*Can enter houses (Just Ask Permission)
- Savidug Ruins
- Savidug Idjang
- Chavayan Community Tour
*UNESCO Nominated Site
- Chavayan Traditional Ivatan Village

11:00 AM -1 2:00 PM
Picnic Lunch

1:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Travel to Nakabuang Beach
Swimming, Sunbathing, Rest

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Travel back to Batan Island

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
- Travel to Basco Town Proper

DAY 4

- Cultural Immersion - free day

Day 5

- Return Flight to MANILA

Related Posts:
Batanes Accommodation
Batanes Resort

FlashBack: Subic SCTEX

2009-06-17T14:24:00.005+08:00

As we are test driving our new car we decided to go to Subic and pass through the new hi-way, I am amazed to see the SCTEX (Subic, Clark, Tarlac Expressway) Road going to Subic. It was build along the rice fields and mountains. The sceneries were gorgeous, it's like driving along with the mountains. The roads are good and most of all there are only few vehicles that are passing by. No traffic, no hassle! The toll fee is kinda expensive but for me, as long as it's convenient, it's ok for me to pay for a certain amount.

This is the card they use as toll pass...you just need to swipe it but hmm there's a little problem when we got to the other end. The card didn't detect what tollway station we entered. hehe... Maybe they're still on testing mode.

Note: Flashback Posts are posts from my previous blog.

Sierra Madre Tanay - Day 3

2009-05-29T09:14:00.007+08:00

It's our last day at Sierra Madre Resort, we were up early to eat breakfast in Bulaluhan beside the resort. We had 2 Bulalo and 3 rice for less than 300. It was delicious! While eating, a group of Vespa Riders came in to have coffee, but when they saw us eating Bulalo they were enticed and also ordered a set meal for all of them. I recognized one of their member is an actor, Gabe Mercado also known as "Ok ka ba Tyan" Yakult commercial is one of them. My hubby took photos of their Vespas neatly parked beside the bulaluhan.

Road signs

Bulaluhan

Tanay is a very popular place for Motorcycle Riders because of the paved zigzag roads that are nice for banking. Every weekend, there are a lot of motorcycle enthusiasts meeting up and traveling around Tanay to enjoy the ride and to destress themselves from the whole week of work. For the aficionados they race for fun. One good thing about this place is that it's so accessible that you do not have to spend an overnight to fully enjoy the place plus the fact that you don't have to spend much to get here. One can have a ride here on a half day if you only want to travel and not stay anywhere else. The most popular food here is bulalo and dinakdakan so when you're here, you might want to try these foods. The photos below show different groups of Motorcycle Hobbyist who regularly visit this place. My husband and I too are frequent visitors of this area when we just want to unwind with his Grand Dink.

Related Posts:
Sierra Madre Day 1
Sierra Madre Day 2
Sierra Madre Ocular
Sierra Madre Accommodation and Rates

Jampack Daranak

2009-05-28T08:35:00.011+08:00

We've been to Daranak Falls before but we decided to visit it again since we were just in the vicinity. My main purpose is actually just to take photos of the falls but when we get there it was really crowded. You can really tell from the outside that it is crowded because the parking lot is full and you can see the people blocking the entrance coz everybody wants to go in first even if they're still settling their fees at the counter. I kinda expected it coz it's Holy week, people go out since it's long holiday and Daranak Falls is one the most accessible tourist spots near Manila. We decided to go back and just postponed the visit anyway we have many chance to see it again some other time. I also don't want to take photos with lots of people near the falls.

I need to know the current rates for the entrance fee and tables but I did not get out of the car coz we are maneuvering, good thing I have a good set of lens I was able to capture the price list. I now have the rates but I don't know if it's updated. hehe.

While driving back to Sierra Madre Resort, I got to take pictures of the vehicles going to the Falls. There are trucks jampacked with people and a tricycle also full of passengers in and out the sidecar. I was amused on how many people are out on Holy Week, you can easily tell it on these photos.

We chance upon a store selling fresh buko juice so we bought 2 but the knife of Manong Magbubuko is not that sharp. We were laughing coz the juice was spilled less juice left for my hubby...huhu...but they were kind enough to tell us to just exchange it for a new one but we didn't accept it coz we want them to earn. We were happy anyway coz Manong is nice.

Related Posts:
Daranak and Batlag Falls Day Tour

Sierra Madre Resort and Country Club Tanay - Day2

2009-05-24T03:35:00.006+08:00

We woke up early to start the day. We'd like to see the sunrise in the mountains and have an early breakfast so we can go down the hill and see if we'd like to swim as Sierra Madre has 2 swimming pools but you have to go downhill to see it . I had daing na bangus for breakfast and tapa for my Hubby both with coffee which cost us around Php300. The price is just right for the meal. After the sumptuous breakfast, we headed straight to the pool but we brought our car because my hubby doesn't want to walk that far because the stairs are kinda steep.

These photos shows the entrance of the Sierra Madre Resort, the Reception Area, Dining or Restaurant Area and the Music Lounge with piano and sound system where you can pay for the Videoke.

We first visited the prayer mountain, since it's Good Friday we paid respect to the Holy Mountain where you can do the traditional Station of the Cross. The last cross would be on the top of the mountain which we did not visited because it needs some trekking to reach it. There's also a Chapel where they conducted a Mass.

The photos below are the 2 swimming pools with overlooking view of the mountains.

The rest of the photos are the places inside the resort where you can roam around and unwind. The view of the mountains is enough to commune with nature, there's also a waterfalls in the resort but I did not go down to the third level because no one's going there and the grasses are tall.

Related Posts:
Sierra Madre Resort and Country Club Tanay- Day 1
Sierra Madre Resort and Country Club
Sierra Madre Accommodation and Rates

Sierra Madre Resort and Country Club Tanay - Day1

2009-05-23T15:44:00.002+08:00

This has been a long overdue review of Sierra Madre Resort and Country Club where we spent our 1st Year Wedding Anniversary on a Holy Week. We booked a room for two nights and was able to get there at around 6pm of Holy Thursday because we were in Quezon in the morning to join my Hubby's Scooterista Ride. Since we do not have enough sleep yet, my Hubby just slept as soon as we were settled. I went out to check the vicinity and was caught by the lovely moon which I took photos on but I found the first 3 photos kinda creepy because of the moonlight effects and the shadows of the pine trees. It looks like it came from some foreign ghost movies.

After taking photos of the moon, I roamed around to see what else to photograph in the vicinity. The bridge and the gazebo are photo friendly since they are lighted during the night. I love how the pine trees are situated at the back of the hall because it gives a nice effect on my photos.

This is the view of the rooms overlooking the mountains. The lights are nice but my photo is kinda blurred. Then I also got a photo of our room just to show you how it looks like. The room is big enough for two persons. It has a toilet and bath but with no air condition because it's always cold here, an electric fan is enough to cool the room down.

Here's a shot of a rainbow during our trip going to Sierra Madre before dusk. We were so fast that I didn't get a good shot of the rainbow as there are electric cables and post in the photo. I remember capturing rainbows in Pagudpud which are more clear and has a good view at the background.

Chillin' at Ace Water Spa

2009-04-30T09:05:00.002+08:00

Ace Water Spa has always been our favorite spa destination. It's a different kind of spa compared to the ones we already knew. It has several pools with spa facilities, a kiddie pool and a lap pool. Imagine yourself swimming in the pool with the benefit of the hydro massage. Each facility has a note on it on where the hydro massage will focus. They have different massage for all the parts of the body you'll just have to read the direction, follow the right position and click the button to make it work. They also have 3 hot pools with ginseng which are therapeutic, just be careful with the position coz you have to put your nape in the cold steel to prevent your temperature/blood to go up and be aware of the time limit they said in the note coz you cannot stay there longer. Ace water spa also has steam room and sauna bath in case you want to try that out.

The amenities at Ace Water Spa is commendable, they have clean facilities and everyone is required to wear the proper swimming attire. A snug-fitting swimwear is required as the water pressure can be very strong and could literally bare your body parts. A swimming cap is also required to prevent falling hair in the pool. They also have swim wears for rent in case you forgot to bring yours. The bathrooms are nice and clean, they have a complete set of shampoo, soap, gel, cotton buds, tissue, blower, slippers and lockers so you won't have to worry if in case you just stop by the spa.

Ace water spa also has a restaurant where you can eat after a relaxing massage, they offer a free soup after the 4 hrs massage. Cameras are not allowed inside so I just shoot the one I see from the resto.

One session at Ace Water Spa costs 550 pesos for adults and 250 pesos for kids below 4 feet. It's an all weather establishment coz all the pools are indoors so you don't have to worry about the sun burn and rain. It's a nice place to relax and thanks to my officemates who recommended this place to us.

Ace Water Spa is located at 399 Del Monte Ave. (near cor. Banawe St.), SFDM, Quezon City. Contact numbers are 3678040-41 and 3678061. They are open at 6am til 11pm daily.

Photographing the Tree of Life

2009-04-29T09:52:00.007+08:00

I don't know why I love photographing the Coconut Trees when we visited Quezon. It really catches my attention when we are passing through roads with coconut trees on the side. The height of the coconut trees in Quezon are incredibly tall compared to the those I've seen in the city. The symmetry on how the trees were planted are amazing. When the strong wind blows, the leaves and trunk of the coconut trees are perfectly swaying into the direction of the wind. I just love photographing it and the trees are so picture friendly plus the clouds that are saying hello to my cam.

Coconut Tree is also known as the Tree of Life in the Philippines because of it's many uses from roots to the tips of the leaves, from culinary to non-culinary use such as decorations and souvenirs or even for medicinal use. This is one of my favorite fruit because of its delicious juice and coconut meat. It was indeed a Tree of Life since the coconut industry is one of the highest dollar earner industry in the Philippines especially now that the Virgin Coconut Oil has found a market in Cosmetics and Medicine.

Bitukang Manok Atimonan Quezon

2009-04-21T09:54:00.003+08:00

After the Scooter Ride to Sariaya Quezon with the Ratbugasmati Group, my Hubby and Uncle exchanged transpo so my hubby got our car and we went straight to Atimonan Quezon. It's just a plain road trip because we do not have any place in mind to go to except that I want to see the famous Bitukang Manok (chicken intestine). I was just so curious on how zigzag it is and if I'm going to feel scared or what coz based on what I heard and read it's really a dangerous road and a breathtaking zigzag that one has to see so my adrenalin is really pushing me to see how breathtaking the place is.

After traveling for a couple of hours, I can now see the entrance to Bitukang Manok in Atimonan Quezon. Its name is Quezon National Forest Park, I believe there's a park there which we didn't bother to visit coz we do not have enough time anymore. I was so excited to see the said breathtaking zigzag road so I prepared my camera and wait for something new to take photos on. I'm still waiting and asked my hubby where's the zigzag? It was to my disappointment when my Hubby told me that it's all over. What!?!?!? I do not have photos yet and he'll tell me that it's all over? Why didn't I see it or feel the rush? Where's the adrenalin rush? hehe... I was not satisfied so I told my hubby to pull over and park the car. We walk down the road to see what's in there, just to satisfy my expectations. We stayed at a point where I can take photos and have a good sight of the Bitukang Manok. It's amazing to see it from the top. I got some nice photos so I'm satisfied. I was just expecting too much and I didn't realize that it was just a short zigzag road compared to Sagada - Benguet zigzag. Anyway to wrap it all up, it was a beautiful sight and you will just appreciate it if you're at the top. See photos below to see what I mean.

Save the Climate, Save Boracay - Part II

2009-04-15T08:13:00.004+08:00

Here's another YouTube video of the Save the Climate, Save Boracay Campaign by Greenpeace.

Just remember these 3 simple steps from Richard Gutierrez at Youtube:

1. Save Energy by unplugging or switching off your aircon, tv, lights and chargers when you leave your hotel rooms.

2. Reduce Waste by bringing your own bag when you go out. Say no to plactic- straws, sachets and bags. No cigarette butts on the beach please!

3. Walk More - walk more and enjoy the beach! Walk, run, swim and cycle to lessen the air pollution.

Holy Week Ride to Quezon

2009-04-14T08:54:00.003+08:00

Last Thursday, my hubby Cocoy's Scooterista group "Ratbugasmati" planned a ride to Quezon. Since we already have plans for the holiday and he also wants to join the ride, we made a compromise that we will just go to Sierra Madre after the ride in Quezon is finish after lunch. We left Manila at around 4am and the planned route going to Quezon was through the service road. My hubby brought his Grand Dink and I have his Uncle drive the car for me so I can take photos of the group.

This is my favorite shot of my husband, looks like a champion!

They stopped by this Quezon landmark to wait for us. Since we are riding a 4 wheel vehicle it is obviously the slowest compared to the scooters and of course they have this momentum to race during the ride so the car was definitely left behind in the ride. My first few shots are mostly from the back. I saw them racing each other to their momentum, they're all brave enough to push their scooter capacity to the limit coz they have their mechanics with them, of course from Ratbugasmati Scooter Shop.

Our first official stop was in Tiaong Quezon. The photo below was taken after a sumptuous meal from Bunso's home. We just ate and take a short rest then we continue the ride going to the beach in Sariaya Quezon.

This was the last photo I took for the group, I wasn't able to see the beach at the back coz we have to rush to our own planned destination. Ratbugasmati Scooter Group stayed here overnight and went back to Manila on Good Friday through the Tanay route. It was a fun ride indeed and my hubby and I were both satisfied as he was able to ride with the group and I was able to take new photos for my satisfaction.

For inquiries about Ratbugasmati Scooter Shop, please contact Cocoy at 09165198458

Save the Climate, Save Boracay!

2009-04-12T15:45:00.006+08:00

I found this Youtube video from the Greenpeace site and I believe this video campaign for Boracay is a very good way of communicating our intention to Save the Climate. This is for their Holy Week campaign but I guess this can be used not only for the Holy Week but every time we go to Boracay and to all the lovely beaches and tourist spots here in the Philippines.

Greenpeace encourages all tourists and guests to do their simple acts when travelling. It is just a 3 simple steps to save Boracay and our Climate. Here's Angel Aquino for Save the Climate, Save Boracay YouTube Video:

1. Save Energy by unplugging or switching off your aircon, tv, lights and chargers when you leave your hotel rooms.

2. Reduce Waste by bringing your own bag when you go out. Say no to plactic- straws, sachets and bags. No cigarette butts on the beach please!

3. Walk More - walk more and enjoy the beach! Walk, run, swim and cycle to lessen the air pollution.

Caleruega Chapel

2009-04-10T08:54:00.009+08:00

This is my favorite shot of Caleruega

Caleruega Chapel is one of the favorites of the couples who want to get married in Tagaytay. It was often mistaken as a Church in Tagaytay since it is near Tagaytay but the correct location of this chapel is at Nasugbu, Batangas just in the boundary of Tagaytay and Nasugbu.

There's a wedding going on when we get there, it's palm Sunday that time so I'm not expecting that there's a wedding that day. I wasn't able to take photos of the interiors of the chapel as I want to respect the privacy of their ceremony. I've been through that experience and privacy really is a big deal. I'll just show you the shots from the outside, the construction of the chapel is blending very well on the landscape and the sceneries that you will see around the area. The weather is not too hot even if it's summer because it is elevated, the cold wind blows around the chapel. Aside from the Chapel there are other amenities in this area for retreat or seminars.

Here's the map of Caleruega in case you would like to visit this place.

For Private Vehicle

Via South Super Hi-way:
* Take Sta. Rosa Exit
* Proceed towards Tagaytay Market
* Turn right to Rotonda

Via Coastal Road:
* From Roxas Blvd. proceed to Aguinaldo Hi-Way all the way up to Tagaytay

For Public Transport

* Proceed to CROW Bus Terminal along EDSA in Pasay. Board buses going to any of these destinations: Nasugbu, Balayan or Calatagan. Get off at Ever Crest, Batulao, Nasugbu Batangas. Tricycle Service is available at Evercrest entrance or hike through a 2km road to Caleruega.

Caleruega Trip

2009-04-06T14:24:00.017+08:00

We went to Caleruega Chapel yesterday with my hubby's family. I've been here in Caleruega many times attending a wedding but I wasn't aware that Caleruega has a lot to show us aside from the lovely chapel up the hill. There's a wedding when we arrived and the entrance to the Caleruega chapel was closed because of the wedding and that's the exclusive entrance for the guests only. So we walked ahead downhill, when we reached the gate of Caleruega the guard approached us and asks us to pay for an entrance fee of Php30.00 per adult I haggled for the 2 kids so we only paid for 3 adults. I didn't know that we have to pay for the entrance so I asked what's the entrance fee for? Good thing I asked so now I know that there's a picnic area, a pond, a hanging bridge and a walk bridge where you can take a really nice photo. Caleruega is nice place to go to on weekends for family bonding. See photos below for some of the Caleruega's amenities.

This is the entrance from the back gate of Caleruega

Upon entering, there's a cute staircase that caught my attention.

This is the Caleruega's dormitory for retreat participants.

Eating area

A signage so you won't get lost

The hallway going to the Caleruega Chapel

Pathway going up to the Chapel

I like this sign "Closer to Nature, Closer to God" I believe this coz God is the creator of all these beautiful nature that surrounds us.

Picnic Area

Station of the Cross, Caleruega Style

The Pond

The rest of the photos are walk bridge and hanging bridge.

Happy 1st Year Wedding Anniversary to US

2009-04-05T01:34:00.004+08:00

It's our 1st YEAR WEDDING ANNIVERSARY today! We will go to Tagaytay later with my hubby's family to celebrate. We'll just visit Caleruega Chapel to hear mass to thank the Lord for a wonderful year he gave us. Then after that it's eating time! We're going to have dinner I don't know where exactly but for sure we'll eat..hehe...

Time really flies when you're having fun, I didn't notice that it is already a year since our Wedding in 2008. The memories are still fresh and I'm still missing the wedding preps. Wedding preparation is really addictive especially when you are with a group of people who can relate on how you feel and what you want. Right Sisters? My w@w family is my strength and without them my beautiful wedding wouldn't be all possible. Aside from getting ideas on wedding preps, I also gained trusted friends from this group who I really love! You know who you are!

Looking back, our theme was a "Summer Theme" wedding since it's April. I was too worried about the weather that time coz it's raining days before our wedding. I remember offering eggs to St. Claire and I was so happy that it didn't rain that day and it was indeed a Sun Shiny Day! Our wedding turned out how I want it to be, it's really festive and you can feel that everyone's happy during the celebration.

Here's our Wedding's Onsite Video by JezReel Digital Videos. This is also uploaded in Youtube but unfortunately the sound was disabled because of the copyright so I just uploaded it here. Venue: Malate Church | Baluarte de San Diego | Diamond Hotel

It was just a simple celebration of our anniversary today and we still have a separate celebration on Thursday at Sierra Madre Country Club.

Paoay Church: Ilocos Norte

2009-04-04T09:05:00.019+08:00

I didn't know how beautiful Paoay Church is until I finally see it in person. Like what I said to my friends many times, this is now my favorite church, I so love the exterior and by just looking at this you'll have a flashback of what happened from the old times. Former President Marcos declared this church as a National Treasure and is now included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Church. Although the interiors didn't impress me that much maybe because I saw some wood support in the ceiling but this is understandable since this Church has been standing for more than a hundred years now.

The real name of the church is St. Augustine Church but it is famously known as Paoay Church because it is located in the town of Paoay in the province of Ilocos Norte. The location allows convenient commuting from the boundaries of Batac, San Nicholas and Laoag City.

The Church Isle

Closer shot of the Altar

Thick walls and posts with buttresses to support the walls.

Some more facts about this church:

(Ref: Wikipilipinas)

Paoay Church (also known as the St. Augustine Church in Paoay) is a historical church located in Paoay, Ilocos Norte. During the Philippine Revolution in 1898, its coral stone bell tower was used by the Katipuneros as an observation post. Construction of Paoay Church was started by the Augustinian friars in 1694. It was completed in 1894 led by Fr. Antonio Estavillo and was re-dedicated in 1894.

Kinda confusing on when was this built, it says in this picture from Paoay it's built in 1593..hmm.. discrepancy huh...

A three-storey coral stone bell tower stands a few meters away from the church. The bell tower served as an observation post in 1896 for the Katipuneros during the Philippine revolution against the Spaniards, and again by the Filipino guerillas during the Japanese occupation in World War II.

According to historians, the bell tower also served as a status symbol for the locals. The bell would ring more loudly and more times during the wedding of a prominent clan that it would during the wedding of the poor.

Portions of the church was damaged during the earthquakes in 1865 and 1885. During an excavation inside the church in 2000, a prehistoric human skeleton and fragmented ceramics were discovered and are now in display at the National Museum.

Solo Church Shot

Solo Bell Tower Shot

Known as the “Earthquake Baroque” church in the Philippines

Greenpeace: Earth Event

2009-04-03T23:12:00.005+08:00

Join us in commemorating the 22nd anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster.

This month's Green Cafe will layout all the facts against nuclear energy.

What’s in store?

* No to Nukes: a short talk by Francis de la Cruz of Greenpeace
* A special screening of Discovery Channel’s Zero Hour: The Chernobyl disaster
* No to Nukes solidarity: a candle lighting ceremony by Greenpeace members volunteers, and friends

Where and when will it be?

* Saturday, April 25, 2009.
* From 4pm until 7pm.
* Bantayog ng mga Bayani, EDSA corner Quezon Avenue.
o Public transport: Highly accessible via public transport (jeeps, buses, Edsa Quezon Avenue MRT station)
o Private vehicles: Easily accessible, safe and ample parking.

How to register?

* Simply reply to this email to confirm your attendance. Kindly include the names of family and friends you’d like to take with you.
* For questions, call Supporter Services at (02)4146512 local 102.

Top 10 Pilgrimage Destination on Holy Week

2009-03-27T17:35:00.024+08:00

I've just thought of my top 10 Pilgrimage Destination this Holy Week. As the tradition goes here in the Philippines there are places that are frequently visited during this season to seek Spiritual Healing. Some people wants to renew their faith by visiting these places and at the same time relax during their time off from work.

Here goes my Top 10 Holy Week Pilgrimage Destinations. These are only my pick, it may not be as popular as the others. I've been to some of these places and some still has to be visited soon.

1.Vigan Cathedral in Vigan Ilocos Sur -Also known as St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, this is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines build by Juan de Salcedo on 1574. Situated in Plaza Salcedo, close to the right of Cathedral is the Episcopal Palace where the Bishop resides. You may find the exterior of the Cathedral not so attractive but when you look at the interiors you'll see that the church is really beautiful. Just a segue, it's really nice to celebrate a wedding here it has a super long isle which I really like and the altar is so beautiful!

2. Paoay Church in Paoay Ilocos Norte - Further north you will find another Heritage Church in the Municipality of Paoay. The name of the Church is St. Augustine but it's popularly known by the place where it is located. This religious building is one of the four Baroque churches designated in UNESCO heritage site. Paoay Church is a fine example of Baroque Architecture with Oriental influences, it has also been called an earthquake Baroque church.

3. Our Lady of Manaoag Church in Pangasinan -This church is Spanish - Romaneque inspired with a littele German and Italian Renaissance Architectural composition located in Panganisan. This is one of the popular Pilgrimage Center in the Philippines where the Our Lady of Manaoag is known to be miraculous.

4. Sierra Madre Country Club - Located in Tanay Rizal built with the sceneries of the Mountains is a good location for a retreat this Holy Week. They have a Way of the Cross that you can do on the top of the mountain and Ecumenical Worship Chapel where they celebrate the Mass.

5. Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto - Located in San Jose Del Monte Bulacan, features a mock hill Calvary with life size statues that depict the passion and death of Christ. One of the popular pilgrimage area where thousands of devotees come during the Holy Week to do the 14 stations of the cross on the zigzagging hillside.

6. Caleruega - Located in Nasugbu Batangas is Caleruega Chapel. This is a Dominican built pilgrimage area literally on top of the hill. There are retreat amenities here like conference room, reflectory hall and dormitories. It's a nice place to commune with nature to reflect about your life and pray.

7. Mount Banahaw - also known as the Holy Mountain in the Philippines, it is located 100 kilometers southeast of Manila. It is the highest peak among a series of mountains and is surrounded by the towns of San Pablo, Majayjay, Liliw, Nagcarlan, Tiaong, Candelaria, Sariaya, Lucena, Tayabas and Lucban. This is a pilgrimage mountain where you can see a combination of catholic practices and superstitions from the local where faith healers and other religious cults go to meditate at the caves and commute with the spirits of nature.

8. Sagada - located in the Mountain Province, this enchanted place is best for people who wants to find themselves with silence and nature. The roads going here makes you feel selfless and thankful for the blessings you've been receiving in your life but as soon as you reach the place, you will find yourself being engrossed with the sceneries you will see and will forget about the stress and problems you have in the City. There are a lot of places to do your reflections, either by going to the enchanted falls of Bomod-Ok or the Caves of Sumaguing and Rice Terraces Views. This is really a haven for those who wants to rest and reflect.

9. Pampanga - Here you will see a lot of Kapampangans who do a sacred and personal acts of penitents. There are activities that show the passion and death of Christ.

10. Our Lady of Peñafrancia Church in Naga City - This church was built in 1711, been here 11 years ago and I still can't forget the beauty of this Church. The paintings in the ceiling was really impressive I really want to show it to you guys but during those times I only have a film camera and I can't find the pictures now. huhuhu...

Daranak and Batlag Falls Day Tour

2009-03-22T15:22:00.005+08:00

Talking about Tanay from my previous posts, I remember going to Daranak Falls and Batlag Falls last 2005 with my Hubby. He's just my boyfriend that time and we thought of going there just to see the falls. It was raining all day and I was too nervous coz the zigzag road to Daranak is slippery and we are just riding a scooter for a roadtrip. I was excited to see the Falls since we used to visit Tanay, I am wondering what this province has to offer.

Daranak falls is located in Brgy. Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal, a few minutes away from Tanay market. It is a government-owned park and part of the laguna watershed. If you are going by private vehicle, just follow the road going to Laguna from Antipolo. At the Daranak-Tanay junction, turn left and head straight uphill. You will see a sign "To Daranak Falls" at the left side of the road. You have to turn left there then you will pass through a forest then you'll see the parking area. Tricycles and jeepneys make special trips to Daranak, so it is also accessible for commuting public.

This is the Daranak Falls, this is the 1st falls you will see upon entering the park, there's still another falls but you have to hike up the hill to see it.

This is taken from the wood bridge that you have to pass through when entering the park. The water that flows here came from the falls.

Batlag falls is situated near the top of Daranak Falls. You will have to pay a separate entrance fee when you want to visit this Falls. I remember the time we visited this place, Encantadia the old teleserye from GMA had their shoot the day before that's why there are some props seen in the area.

The park is open daily at 8 am to 5 pm, entrance fee is around P20.00, I think they have different rates now. They have picnic huts, tables and sheds, complete with all the amenities you’d expect from any resort.

Daranak and Batlag Falls is a nice place to visit this summer. This is a nice Day Tour Trip with your family and friends. It's good to see nature near Manila and you wont have to worry of having long drives and traffic on your way here coz the roads are not crowded.

Sierra Madre Tanay Roads

2009-03-21T12:58:00.009+08:00

These are some photos of the roads of Tanay. I've been here many times whenever my husband and I wants to unwind. We always go here for a road trip either by car or by scooter eat bulalo then go back home. Seeing these mountains makes me feel so light plus the adrenalin rush of the zigzag roads makes you forget the stress you have in the city.

I love taking photos of the sceneries of the Sierra Madre. The mountains have different faces depending on the time of the day. I have many sets of photos on these area coz these are my favorite spots of the mountains. This set was taken during our ocular at Sierra Madre Country Club where we will spend our Holy Week Vacation.

Sierra Madre Resort and Country Club Tanay Rizal

2009-03-11T16:04:00.019+08:00

Our First Year Wedding Anniversary is fast approaching and since it will fall on Holy Week, I'm looking for a place to stay where in we could relax and have some sort of a retreat. I know everybody goes to Boracay and other famous destinations this season but we wanted to stay to a more serene and quiet place on Holy Week, we don't want to do any activities we just need to be together and reflect to respect the Holy Week Traditions. We are not used to go out during these days for the reason that our family is very traditional but it's our anniversary so we still decided to go.

I remember a place in Tanay Rizal that we usually see when we pass by the zigzag roads. It's the Sierra Madre Country Club in Tanay Rizal. It is literally in the Sierra Madre Mountains build on the top of the mountains having a spectacular view of the mountain range. I didn't know that they have accommodations there until my husband confirm to me that they allow overnight stay there. It was a perfect getaway for us this Holy Week simply because there's no traffic on our way there coz we will be passing by a mountain range zigzag roads going to Sierra Madre, it's not the main road so I guess I can expect lesser traffic. The area is cold coz it is elevated it's a perfect place to chill out and the place's ambiance is soothing with a great view of the Sierra Madre Mountains.

We then have an ocular last week to see the amenities. I took some pictures to share with you in case you want to see the place too.

This hanging bridge is one of the nicest view in Sierra Madre Country Club, there are some family rooms that are facing the same view which is a very nice room to occupy.

Gazeebo

Patio or Walkway

There's another bridge going to the gazeebo

This horse was so camera shy he hid his head in the tree when he saw me that I'm taking pictures...hehe...cutie...by the way they also have a horse back riding included in their amenities in case you wanna try.

Pine Trees & the Sun, this only proves that the climate is cold coz there are Pine Trees.

This is the Spring Valley Pool I'm just not sure if this came from a Spring but there are 2 pools here. There's also an accommodation near the pool. The area is so big and the pool is located downhill, if ever you would want to swim you will have to pass through several staircase or you can bring your car down there but the road is too steep and tight.

This is the bridge to the Ecumenical Worship Chapel, I think this is where they celebrate the Mass. When you walk up to the left there's a Station of the Cross up the mountain and when you go to the right there's a Waterfalls.

This is the view from the Pool, there are lots of activities that you can do here. Good for team buildings, conference and retreats. There are obstacle course, firing range, children's playground, jungle trek and a lot more activities that you can enjoy.

Related Post:
Sierra Madre Accommodation and Rates

PiG OuT DaY aT BuBbA GuMp

2009-03-09T02:53:00.012+08:00

I'm on night shift for two weeks and can't even sleep straight in the morning, maybe my body clock is still abnormal. My hubby was home an hour past lunch and was bugging me to have lunch with him. Can't barely sleep at all I told him to get ready we'll just eat out, actually it's another way of saying drop me off in the office coz I'm still sleepy...hehe...

Too early for my shift, we went to Glorietta first to look for somewhere to eat. I can't think of a resto in Glorietta maybe my mind isn't working yet so I just dragged him to the Food Choices but he doesn't want anything from there. We just walked and looked for somewhere to eat until we reached GreenBelt and I know where we are heading again...haha! Now he knows what he wants...I knew it I knew it...We're pigging out at Bubba Gump again.

We ordered the all time favorite Dixie Style Baby Back Ribs and Bubba's After the Storm "Bucket of Boat Trash". We love this resto because of the nice ambiance and interiors plus we love the movie Forrest Gump. The concept of the resto was a kick-off from the movie "Forrest Gump" and this is how Forrest and Bubba would like to build their restaurant: fun, relaxed, and with room for the whole family to enjoy fresh shrimp, fish, ribs, and yummy desserts!We ordered Mudpie for dessert and I really can't resist it even if my tosils just got better the other day. Who would resist this dessert?!? hmmm...Yummy!

It's a nice place to pig out! Bubba Gump is located at the 2nd level of Greenbelt 3 Makati and the other one is at the 4th level of Trinoma.