My Life's Adventures

One Hot and Humid afternoon in Enchanted Kingdom

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 14 Jun 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Our cousin invited us to her birthday in Enchanted Kingdom. Just on time too my sister gone there a week ago but she didn’t enjoy it because she was part of the committee in the company outing done in Enchanted Kingdom. My sister agreed right away because she wanted to ride the extreme rides but had no time. But for me I’ve been there 4 times so I was having second thought, in the end I agreed anyway it’s a celebration too so I can talk to our cousin longer.

Enchanted kingdom is a theme park, it is considered as the “Disneyland of the Philippines”. It is located in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

While our niece, nephew and my sister were enjoying the rides, me and our cousin were sitting on the bench talking. They were laughing at us because according to them it’s sign of aging. They wanted to ride most of the extreme rides but the lines were long, took half hour or more to be accommodated.

Here are the rides they tried:

Ekstreme Ride. It is a thrilling. My sister loved it. She loves the exhilarating feeling from being dropped from a height of 120 feet with a maximum speed of 47mph. Ekstreme Ride takes a minute. It slowly goes up and you can see the aerial view. Our nephew didn’t notice that they would be dropped and before he knew it they were already on the ground. He said it was fast.

The second ride was the Flying fiesta. It is a swing ride that gradually increases the speed and tilts, which create a wave-live motion.

They wanted to try more rides but we knew they couldn’t, so I told them to sum all the extreme rides for me space shuttle would be the best. This ride had long line that took them more than half hour to be accommodated. One can experience 360 degrees turn. It is a two minute ride. After they rode it our niece got dizzy and stop riding.

Because of a long queue in most of the rides, my cousin and our nephew tried Kart-Trak. If you want to experience to be a race driver for a day why not try it. They took the 2-seater for 470.00 pesos and that is for 10 minutes session.

They were already done with the car racing but those who were queuing for space shuttle, they were still there. After the space shuttle we decided to have a relaxing ride and that was the Grand Carousel. And that made them burst out in laughter because me and my cousin joined. Why not, not bad for a last ride before going home.

It was a fun day even was so hot and humid.

Free Stuff coming from Hotels

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 14 Jun 2014 05:11:00 +0000

We travel as much as we can. We took the opportunity to explore places during holidays even just for a day. It's our way of unwinding and relaxing. In traveling we get to know other people, their culture and heritage, ways of life, amazing things about the places and a whole lot more in between.

As I was cleaning this morning I saw some of the freebies from the hotels that we stayed. We collect the free shampoos, conditioner, hair cap, grooming kit, slippers and other things that are part of the freebies. Anyway that's included in the payment we made. Before I was shy to get them but I learned from other travelers and even travel show hosts that they collect them too. We use these freebies every time we would go on travel that we would not stay in a hotel, like camping or sleep over with friends' house.

I remember my husband asked me why I was collecting these stuff, for him that's sort of weird. He is not used to that. But I told him well that's included in our payment and I could use it when I travel too. So he was like ohh ok.

It's fun too to look at these stuff, it's a remembrance too how far we got in terms of exploring other places. How about u? What do u do with the free stuff coming from the hotels?

Masacrot Spring-A resort enveloped by nature

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 10 Jun 2014 00:25:00 +0000

Bulusan, Sorsogon is rich in natural resources. Bulusan is from the word Bulos which means flow of water or water current. Exploring Bulusan always includes water activities.

One of the unique and beautiful tourist spot in Bulusan is the Masacrot Spring. It is located in San Roque, Bulusan, Sorsogon. It is known for its mineral water. Actually it should be tested because it has a taste of carbonated mineral water or soda water just like of that in Bura Soda Water swimming pool of Camiguin. You can taste the water right from the spring. The water is cold that’s why the feeling is like of that swimming in a cold “soft drinks” water. The word Masacrot is derived from the taste of the water meaning a little bit acidic or vinegary because of its carbonated taste like.

The Masacrot Spring has open cottages and tables with chair for rent. The entrance fee is minimal.

The swimming pool is enveloped with trees, wild ferns, ornamental plants and algae. The trees in here are being embraced by algae and some epiphyte ferns and plants. One should be careful in dipping into the water because there are parts that are slippery because of the algae on the swimming pool itself. It is being cleaned often but algae is one of the microorganisms that grows in there.

All year round visitors flock in there to enjoy and savor the carbonated mineral water and its natural beauty. Don’t forget to drop by in this unique tourist spot when you have time.

Masacrot Spring

San Roque, Bulusan, Sorsogon

How to get to Barcelona Church and the Old Ruins of Barcelona in Barcelona, Sorsogon

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 02:00:00 +0000

the landmark of Barcelona, Sorsogon

The Old Ruins of the Presidencia Building

The Barcelona Church

During the Spanish Colonization, the town of Bulusan was strategically one of the fortress of the regime. They built a lot of watchtowers to guard the island from being invaded by the Moros, Pirates and the likes. At that time Barcelona was one of the Villages of Bulusan. That’s why Barcelona has significant to the history. One of the evidences are the Old ruins and the church.

Getting to the place now a days is hard because there is no much public transportation that go there often. There is a schedule of jeep departing from Sorsogon city. Barcelona is a secluded area. You should brace yourself for the longer waiting time if you would take public utility vehicles.

To those who want to explore the place in a convenient way you can hire a van ranging from 2,500 up. It depends upon your haggling skills. By the way the nearest airport is the Legaspi airport from there you can take van for hire or public transportation like van or bus. Usually the van is good for an 8 hours trip although it depends upon how you can agree on some terms that would be favorable on you.

For those who would be coming from the airport, you can take tricycle and ask the driver to bring you to the bus or van terminal going to Sorsogon City. The tricycle fare is 50.00 pesos one way trip, the capacity of it is 4 persons.

From Sorsogon City look for a jeep going to Bulusan and tell the conductor to drop you off in Barcelona Church across the church is the Old Ruins of the Presidencia Building and the School Building. Most of the time jeeps going to Bulusan are few so you can take the jeep going to Gubat then from there you can take a jeep again going to Barcelona or Bulusan.

Ask the jeep what would be the last trip in going back to Sorsogon City that is if your hotel is in there. But if you are in the mood to explore the nearby town, Gubat or Bulusan or Irosin will be the best place to find the hotel. Hotels are cheaper in these area. Have a great adventure!

How to get to Maligo Resort

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 08 Jun 2014 02:00:00 +0000

The Pool of Maligo Resort

The thrill of reaching a place that is less traveled by the usual tourist is higher. Especially in a place like the province of Sorsogon. It has too many potential tourist destination but mostly underdeveloped and unexplored.

For those who would be coming from the airport, you can take tricycle and ask the driver to bring you to the bus or van terminal going to Sorsogon or Bulan. The tricycle fare is 50.00 pesos one way trip, the capacity of it is 4 persons.

Look for the bus or van going to Bulan, tell the driver to drop you off in the crossing going to San Benon (in reference to San Benon hot and cold spring resort). This trip is much better. The Van fare is 180.00 per head. With the bus its130.00 per head.. But if there is not straight trip you can take the Sorsogon City trip.

From Sorsogon City you can ride a jeep or bus with a signage of Irosin, Bulan or Matnog. Tell the conductor to drop u off in San Benon, Monbon, Irosin. The land mark is the Monbon Elementary school. From there, there are tricycle that you can hire from 30 to 50, or u can try to haggle. Tell the driver to bring you to the Maligo Resort. If you still have time you can ask from the barangay tanod or barangay police in that area how to reach the resort by walking.

If your hotel is in Sorsogon City you can take jeep, van or bus in going back. There are hotels around the area too if you want to stay and explore the place more. Take the best out of our trip. Goodluck!

How to get to Lusada Cold Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 07 Jun 2014 02:00:00 +0000

Lusada Cold Spring

The Crystal Clear water of Lusada Cold Spring

The province of Sorsogon has no much organize tour, that’s why most tourist are doing their own way of how to explore and enjoy the place, which somehow adds more to the thrill of the adventure.

Look for the bus or van going to Bulan, tell the driver to drop you off in Caladgao, Buraburan, Juban. This trip is much better. The Van fare is 180.00 per head. With the bus its cheaper. But if there is not straight trip you can take the Sorsogon City trip.

From Sorsogon City you can ride a jeep or bus with a signage of Irosin, Bulan or Matnog. Tell the conductor to drop u off in Lusada, Caladgao, Buraburan, Juban.

Lusada Cold Spring is near the Maharlika High way. You will be dropped off on the trail to go there. It has no trail sign but you can ask the locals for the right path.

If your hotel is in Sorsogon City you can take jeep, van or bus in going back. The nearest local hotels are in Irosin, Sorsogon if you want to stay longer. You can reach the place by riding a jeep with a signage of Irosin, Bulang or Matnog.

How to get to Binarabudan Cold Spring and Guest World Resort and Tourist Inn

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 02:00:00 +0000

Exploring one place is a challenge from the transportation to the food. The best thing to enjoy the place is to live and act like a local that’s more thrilling.

The pool in Guest World Resort

the Natural Pool of Binarabudan Cold Spring

If you could catch the bus or van going to Bulan, tell the driver to drop you off in Guest World Resort or Soreco II office Gulang-Gulang, Irosin. This trip is much better. The Van fare is 180.00 per head but with the bus its 130.00. But if there is not straight trip you can take the Sorsogon City trip.

From Sorsogon City you can ride a jeep or bus with a signage of Irosin, Bulan or Matnog. Tell the conductor to drop u off in GuestWorld Resort and Tourist Inn or in Soreco II office in Gulang-Gulang, Irosin. The two are the best landmark for you not to get lost. The jeep fare is 40.00 pesos per head.

Going to Binarabudan Cold spring is a trek, no trail sign. You can ask the barangay tanod or barangay police or even the local the way to go there. Most of the time kids would accompany you to go there. The trek has more or less 1 kilometer distance from the Maharlika hi-way would take 20 minutes or it is up to how fast you would walk.

If your hotel is in Sorsogon City you can take jeep, van or bus in going back. There are hotels around the area too if you want to stay and explore the place more. Goodluck to your new adventure.

The Old Ruins in Barcelona, Sorsogon - Century old ruins, the silent witness of the past

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 02:00:00 +0000

Across the Barcelona Church is now a park, it was the place of the Presidencia Building and the school for the Spaniards. The old structures are still there. They are more than century old ruins.

The Ruins

Presidencia building was the seat of the Spanish government, governed by the gobernadorcillo. During Spanish regime it was the fortress, because of strategic location facing the Pacific Ocean, pirates, moro and intruders could be easily seen. This building has a tunnel as a retreat passage but the priests closed it to avoid thieves from accessing to the religious relics.

The Lighthouse

The Old Ruins of Presidencia Building

The park has a light house and wifi internet connection, which makes this park popular to the locals. It's refreshing to sit and rest after touring the place. Since it is facing the ocean, the smell of the breeze is perfect for the tired body.

The Park has a wifi connection

The Park

The ruins of Old School Building

If these structures could only tell the history, they would be the perfect witness to tell us the account of the past.

St. Joseph Parish Church or commonly known as Barcelona Church

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 02:17:00 +0000

St. Joseph Parish Church of Barcelona, Sorsogon was built in the year 1874 by Franciscan friars. It is also known as Barcelona Church. The church is made of coral stones, lime, beaten egg whites mixed with tuba, a local wine coming from coconut trees. Barcelona church is one of the oldest churches in the Bicol Region. There are repairs done but most part of it are original. It is also one of the most photographed old churches in the region.

The facade of the Barcelona Church

The church has a tunnel connecting to the Presidencia Building or the old municipal building, which is now a ruin. It is just across the street but the priests closed it in order to avoid thieves from stealing the precious religious relics inside the church.

the altar of the Barcelona Church

The Aisle of the Church

This town is named after the second largest city in Spain, Barcelona, the conquistador said that the natural arrangement of the place is like of that city.

Statue of the Patron Saint St. Joseph outside the Church

Maligo Resort- A Cold Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 23:53:00 +0000

Swimming is one of our bonding activities with the kids. Every time we would go back to our hometown that's the most awaited activity of the kids. Every afternoon we would go to the nearest resort or natural swimming pools. My friend told me that there is another resort in Brgy. Monbon, it's called Maligo Resort. I asked them to go with me and visit that new resort. Brgy. Monbon in Irosin, Province of Sorsogon is well known for hot springs, but this new resort is a cold spring one. Maligo is a Filipino word means take a bath.

Maligo Resort is under construction but can now open to the public. According to the caretaker the owner just wants to make the resort known so that on it's grand opening, they can easily attract customers. That's why don't expect cafeteria and other amenities, which can be found in other resorts although the resort has open cottages for rent, shower area and bathrooms. It is accessible by vehicles although we need to walk more or less 15-20 meters in going to the resort because the path is too small to accommodate vehicles. Those who want to visit the place just ask tricycle drivers they know the place.

This resort has one huge pool but with different water depth. The area near the entrance is for kids, 3 feet then move the next is 4 feet then 5 feet. At this moment it has no markers yet, that's why parents, guardians should not leave children unsupervised. The water is coming from springs, which makes as the fountains. Fountains are not yet installed, pipes can still be seen. It's the only cold spring among the resorts in Brgy. Monbon. Although San Benon hot and cold spring resort has cold water swimming pool, it is not open to the public. The pool intended for cold water has no water, which makes Maligo Resort a different from the rest of the Resorts in this area.

Maligo resort is surrounded by coconut trees and rice fields. It has a small fish pond. The entrance fees are 25 pesos for adults and 20 for kids.

It is not yet popular to others that's why when we went there no other guests except us, that made us happier because we could enjoy the pool by ourselves. Don't forget to being foods because no cafeteria yet in this resort. Want some cold spring water specially during hot and humid days? Visit Maligo Resort.

Lusada Cold Spring- A crystal spring

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 01 Jun 2014 23:39:00 +0000

In the province of Sorsogon there are many entrance free tourist destinations. Underdeveloped just for the consumption of the locals, "bakasyonistas"( visitors of the local coming from different places) and some tourists that are looking for real adventures unexplored by many.

One of them is the Lusada Cold Spring located in Sitio Caladgao, Buraburan, Juban. It's is along the Maharlika hi-way, more or less 15-20 meters away from the main road. Few minutes walk. Lusada is a local term which means "to go down" from the root word lusad meaning go down.

It was my first time to visit this place. My sisters, nieces and nephews have been there before but sad to say I didn't. But since it was a hot afternoon we looked for a cold spring to refresh. We grew up loving the hot springs. Our place is blessed with springs because of the Mount Bulusan. We decided to try Lusada.

Lusada Cold Spring has one natural pool, surrounded by banana trees, bushes, wild plants, ferns and boulders. It is the pool for everybody and serves too as a laundry area. We saw some washing their clothes in one area. By the way it's common in the provinces to wash their clothes in the river, springs, or any form of body of water.

There is an automatic understanding that when there are new visitors they would vacate an area to accommodate them. It's part of the culture to be hospitable and accommodating.

I saw some put their bottles of soft drinks in one area to make it cooler, the pool is not just a place for swimming and washing clothes but also serves as the cooler. Unique pool.

My companions were enjoying the swimming because the same as in Binarabudan Cold Spring there are fish too. It was getting late when we decided to leave the spring.

I got disappointed when I saw d surroundings full of used plastic, foil, bottles and other rubbish meaning those who visit the place just throw their trashes outside the pool. It's the place where local go everyday, hope the people together with the local officials come out with the plan how to maintain the beauty of the place.

I really hope that someday, we Filipinos can learn to understand and appreciate how blessed we are having this beautiful land. We learn to take care of the natural resources that we have. It's our wealth, heritage, pride and preserving this will be the greatest gift to the next generation.

Guest World Resort and Tourist Inn

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 30 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

The province of Sorsogon is emerging as one of the promising tourist destinations in the country. Tourism is starting to soar. As the tourists flock the demands for tourists amenities are needed. There are some looking for hotel and at the same time resort. Guest World Resort and Tourist Inn caters to that demand. It is located at the Maharlika Hi-way, Gulang-Gulang, Irosin, Sorsogon. They have hotel accommodations start from 2,000 pesos. There are rooms with kitchen so guests can cook their own food. Although they have room service and restaurant too. For those who are guests of the hotel they are free to enjoy the resort as well but for those who just want to enjoy the resort, the entrance is very minimal: adult is 20.00 per head and kids are 15.00 per head.

the kiddie pool

Mt. Bulusan

Adult Pool

Guest World Resort has two huge swimming pools with slides. One kiddie pool and one adult pool. There are cottages for rent for those who are on day tour. From this resort one can enjoy the view of the mountain and Bulusan Volcano as well.

The water of the swimming pools are coming from Binarabudan cold spring. IF you don’t want to trek, you can just enjoy the swimming pools of Guest World Resort and it’s like you have the taste of what Binarabudan Spring water is like.

Have fun exploring the province of Sorsogon.

Binarabudan Cold Spring - Gulang-Gulang, Irosin, Sorsogon

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 30 May 2014 05:21:00 +0000

Mount Bulusan

Lush Vegetation

the path

Some say the best thing in life is free. In Irosin, Sorsogon and nearby towns there are natural springs that are open for public without entrance fee. One of them is the Binarabudan Cold Spring, which is located in Brgy. Gulang-Gulang, Irosin, Sorsogon. Binarabudan is a local term for spring, it is derived from the word burabod meaning spring. No trail signs to go there, one can ask a local to guide them in going to the spring. It is nestled on the foot of the Bulusan Volcano. Along the Maharlika Highway near Guest World Resort and Inn, in front of Soreco II office there is a path leads to the spring. Just ask the locals along the way they are helpful and gracious to give u the direction.

Natural Pool

Salog means river

We had more or less 20 minutes trek. Our nephew was gone to the place but he forgot the exact way. It was fun for we don’t know where the right path so what we did was followed the passage of the water. We knew at the end of that water is the spring. Along the way we were looking and were in awe of the beautiful scenery, lush vegetation, butterflies flying over us and of course the full view of the Bulusan Volcano.

While walking we could hear the laughter of the people enjoying the water. The deep of the water is more or less 2-4 feet. It is surrounded by trees, ferns, wild plants and boulders. There is a huge stone serves as diving spot.

Diving Spot-Dive on your own risk

At first the water is cold but as time goes on, it’s so refreshing and relaxing. The water is crystal clear and there are fish in it. Why not experience swimming with the fish in a natural spring. We tasted the water right on the spring, it's cold and refreshing one. There is another spring nearby which the water supply of the Barangay Gulang-Gulang is coming from. This is the water reservoir of the community.

Great to explore places that not the usual destination for tourists. Hope the picnic goers and the local officials can maintain the cleanliness. Till next time.

Manila Central Post Office Building-a Neo-Classical Architecture

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 29 May 2014 02:00:00 +0000

During our postal heritage walking tour we had the opportunity to explore the Manila Central Post Office Building. It is located along the river banks of Pasig River near the Lawton Plaza and Manila metropolitan theater. I was amazed with the 14 huge columns and a beautiful facade. Manila central post office building is rectangular shape with two drum like on both side. While we were having a lecture amazingly it has natural ventilation, no fan but cooler inside and enough sunlight coming in, that is why we didn't have to turn on the lights.

Exhibit of Post Stamps

Auction

Every third Sunday there is walking heritage tour and this building is part of that tour. At the same time there is an auction being held inside the building for collectors of post stamps, post cards, coins, toys and other collectibles. It becomes the place for different exhibits too.

This building is a perfect example of neo-classical architecture. Manila central post office is part of the history. It withstood the test of time from World War II to people power 1 until at present time.

The Manila central Post Office Building became a Japanese soldiers' fortress but the artillery coming from the American forces bombarded the Post Office until the Japanese soldiers retreated. After the war, the United States of America aided the Philippines to repair all d damages from the said war. That made the Manila central post office building restored to its original beauty.

In year 2012 there was a foreign company wanted to convert this building into a five star hotel. Some concerned groups rallied to preserve this heritage.

Philippine National Flag Day -May 28th

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 28 May 2014 01:08:00 +0000

Today is the Philippine National Flag Day. It is being celebrated every 28^th of May to commemorate the date when the Philippine Flag was first unfolded and raised after the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated the Spanish forces in the Battle of Alapan in Imus, Cavite in 1989.

Philippine Flag is the only known flag to indicate a state of war or peace. When in time of peace, the blue field is on top while in time of war, the red field is on top.

The Celebration starts from May 28^th until June 30^th, all Filipinos are encouraged to display the Philippine flag. All are expected to abide the law governing its proper use and display accordingly as mandated by

The Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines or Republic Act 8491.

Arroceros Forest Park- the last lung of Manila

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 27 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

It’s called as “the last Lung” of the Manila City. Arroceros is a Spanish word means Rice Traders. It was a place where rice traders met in old times. This park is near the river bank of Pasig River, to the right side ayala bridge and to the left side quezon bridge can be seen. it has a 2.2 hectares land area but in 1992 there was a construction of a building, some of the oldest trees were cut. There were environmentalists and concerned groups opposed but it was still pursued. At this moment the land area of the Forest left is 1.1 hectare.

While we were walking towards the Arroceros Forest Park, we passed by the Manila Metropolitan Theater and we noticed too many informal settlers. Specially along the side walk of the forest park.

Mr. Tony Magno was our tour guide inside the Forest Park. He is a member of the Winners Foundation, which take care of the park together with Catholic Women’s Club. He is urging Filipinos to move and get involve in preserving the forest park. It has a key role in providing fresh air to the people plus it’s also a sanctuary for some animals. Mr. Magno and some organizations continuously plant trees, he said he will not see the forest in the next decade but it has to be preserved for the future generations.

We noticed concrete roads and path inside the forest park and some trees have wrought iron and bricks covered, it could be better if they can preserve the Forest Park in its natural beauty. Bed forest is much better. There is a fish pond inside the park, visitors can feed them.

It’s great to know that we still have forest right in the heart of the busy Manila. We need to preserve and help bring back its glory.

A Free Guided Philippine Postal Heritage Walking Tour-Escolta

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 26 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

There are groups of concern citizens who are trying to awaken the patriotism among the Filipinos by giving free tour and lectures on the Philippine Heritage thru post stamps and key historical buildings around Manila. I and my sister joined it twice the first one was the Philippine Postal Heritage walking tour-Intramuros and the last one was the Philippine Postal Heritage walking tour-Escolta.

Every third Sunday of the month this Philippine Postal Heritage walking tour is being held. Those who are interested you can visit their website.

The tour is from 12:00pm till night. No specific time to finish, it depends upon the weather and the participants too. We arrived in Andres Bonifacio Monument in Liwasang Bonifacio at 12:30. It is the usual meeting place and it’s the place where the tour starts. We were just on time the tour was about to start. The tour guide was Rence Chan.

Manila Central Post Office Building was our next stop. There we were given a free starter kit in collecting stamps and there was a lecture too on understanding the post stamps as part of the Nation’s heritage, history and building the nation.

Inside the building there were group of collectors having auction, postal exhibit and photo shoot. It was a busy building at that day. Before we left the Manila Central Post Office building we were asked to give small amount to help the Arroceros Forest Park.

After the lecture we proceed to Arroceros Park. I didn’t know that there is a park in the heart of Manila City. Inside the park is where the Department of Education’s Division of City Schools Manila. It was named Arroceros because in this area the rice trade was being held between foreign traders and the locals. Before it was a huge forest park but as time goes on and as the city’s leaders changes the forest park area became lesser, at the moment it has 1.1 hectares left. Some area are converted into commercial area. There are wild birds, snakes and other animals and insects inside this park. It will be of great help to maintain the cleanliness of the city’s air, to prevent more smog and to maintain the ecosystem as well. Hope the local leaders to have that political will to make the people’s welfare on top everything.

Manila Metropolitan theater also known as MET was our next stop. It was one of the theaters during the Spanish colonial period, where local and foreign artists performed. During the world war II it was slightly destroyed but it was restored in year 1978. Sad to say the building is deteriorating. Hope the concerned institutions can find the solution to restore this beautiful historical building.

When we finished exploring the Manila Metropolitan Theater it was already dusk, the weather was cooler and nice to walk seeing the beautiful Manila. At this time we were asked to give small amount for the guards who help us in our tour.

While we were walking on our way to Escolta we passed by Mc Arthur Monument, Fire Trees, beautiful landscape of Manila. Manila is a beautiful City, the problem is there are sore to the eyes too like informal settlers, litters, smell coming from the banks of Pasig River. Hope the government local or national can study and look for the solutions to these problems. Have political will to preserve our nation and its heritage.

This is my first time to appreciate Escolta, during week days it’s a busy street. The buildings are beautiful although needs restorations and repairs. One of the buildings that we visited was the United First Building, this was the house of the movie outfits before. RVQ production’s office is there although at that time it was closed so we didn’t see the museum. It was an “epic fail” but it was fun too, we climbed five floors then when we reached the unit it was closed. We were not allowed to use the elevators because its Sunday plus it was just a free tour.

The next building was the Calvo Building. It was built in 1938. It was the first house of the GMA 7, a television channel. The Calvo Building was the house for prominent recording studios and companies. Today in its mezzanine there is an exhibit it is called Escolta Exhibit Hall, where showcases the collection of old music sheets, print ads of Filipino movies, bottles, pictures and more. We were asked to pay 100.00 pesos per head for the entrance fee.

Our last stop was the Juan Luna E-Services Building. It is still on its renovation, according to Rence Chan by August there will be no tour allowed in the building for it will be occupied by Business Process Outsourcing Offices. Juan Luna E-Service Building is registered with the National Historical Institute of the Philippines (NHI).

There are too many beautiful and historical buildings in the City of Manila but there is no much effort to restore them. Specially the private owned ones, its owner mostly don’t know the importance of these buildings. Hope we still have ample time to think the welfare of our beloved land.

It was a great free tour. We were just talking and laughing all throughout the tour. Relaxing it’s not a pressured tour. No time bound. Participants can leave the tour anytime.

Kodus to the group of Rence Chan for lending their precious time to conduct free guided tour.

Splash Mountain Resort In Los Banos, Laguna

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 26 May 2014 04:29:00 +0000

To beat the heat of summer we decided to have a day get away to a resort in the outskirt of Manila, Los Banos, Laguna. Splash Mountain Resort-Hotel was out choice. Just more than an hour from Alabang and we were off to a greener place. It is destination for family, friends and even company outings. It has several swimming pools which cater to all ages complemented with picnic huts, poolside kiddie slides and giant waterslides . According to its website the Resort can accommodate up to 3000 people. This Resort has Function rooms can hold up to 400 seminar participants and 350 wedding and party guests.

The entrance fee ranges from 60.00-180.00 pesos per head. Giant waterslides area has a higher price. In our case we opted for Giant waterslides because with this package we could explore the resort unlike with the ordinary entrance fee there is a limitation where the guests can go. Those guests that take giant waterslides have wristbands, it shouldn’t be removed while in the premises of the resort.

We didn’t know that it is a hot spring resort until I smell rotten egg while swimming. I was like where that coming from. Then we realized the water is coming from a hot spring because of the Mount Makiling. The water is lukewarm that I thought it was because the water is exposed to sunlight that makes the water warm.

Our niece enjoyed the water so much from the moment we arrived till the time we went home, she was in the pool. The only times that she would get out from the pool were to eat and pee. She and my sister took 9 slides from the tornado slide, she wanted more but my sister was so tired.

It was a great day to beat the summer heat. For those who want to have a last minute to enjoy the summer why not try Splash Mountain Resort.

SPLASH MOUNTAIN
Km 58. Barangay Lalakay, Los Baños, 4030 Laguna
Splash Hotel: Tel. No. (0917) 583-2993; (049) 536-6399
Splash Oasis: Tel. No. (049) 536-6398

How to get to Splash Mountain Resort in Los Banos, Laguna

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 24 May 2014 07:14:00 +0000

This summer is my first summer that I really just need to relax. Since I resigned from my job so I am staying at home. And now I just realized how summer is super hot in Manila. Lol that’s crazy I knew it was super hot but not this hot that I feel it’s more than 40 degree Celsius.

My sister said there is a nice resort just near Manila. I was reluctant because I am not really a fan of swimming pools. I am not comfortable with the swimming pools because of I am not sure how they treat the water, It might have too many bacteria.

But since it’s too hot I agreed why not try the swimming pools in Laguna. We visited the Splash Mountain Resort. Its located in Los Banos, Laguna.

We learned from its website that we just need to ride bus that is bound to Sta. Cruz, Laguna and it will pass by the Splash Mountain resort, where we can drop off. We took bus from South Station of Alabang, Muntinlupa. The fare was 60.00 pesos per head. We asked the doctor to drop off us to the Splash Mountain Resort. And true to what its website says, the conductor did. It’s a well-known resort then.

When we were about to return to Manila, the buses wouldn’t stop even we flagged them so we had to go to Calamba City thru Jeep since there is a Bus station in that area. The jeep fare was 13.00 pesos per passenger. We rode the bus from Calamba City and the fare was 48.00 pesos per head till Alabang, Muntinlupa.

Public Transportation

Going to Los Baños is easy even if you don't have a car with you. For those who want to commute, you can ride a bus bound for Sta. Cruz, Laguna. This will pass by Los Baños, just tell the bus conductor to drop you off at Splash Mountain. The Splash, Suites and Oasis Hotels are all located at Splash Mountain resort complex.

If you are coming from Quezon City, aircon buses are available at Cubao, along EDSA corner Aurora Boulevard. HM Tranport leaves at 3:30 am daily from Cubao to Sta. Cruz via Los Baños and buses depart every 15 minutes until 10 pm. Going home from Los Baños, you can wait for buses bound for Cubao at the highway in front of Splash Mountain. The last trip for buses coming from Sta. Cruz is at 8:00 pm.

For those coming from Manila, aircon buses bound for Sta. Cruz are available at JAMand Tritran bus terminals at LRT station, Buendia. First trip is also at 3:30 am and buses also depart every 15 minutes.

Driving From Manila

We are located along the national highway at Km. 58, Brgy. Lalakay, Los Baños, Laguna approximately 10 km after the city of Calamba. It takes one hour drive to reach us from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Thru the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) take the Calamba exit and drive towards Los Baños. Watch the road signs to Los Baños that will direct you to make a right in Calamba junction and upon reaching the busy Pansol resort area drive another 4 km. Splash Mountain is located on a curve immediately after two hills sandwiching the highway (we are after these hills on the left-hand side of the road). You won't miss the billboards, the huge facade and the spacious parking area to your left. Driving another 2 km. is the town proper of Los Baños where City of Springs is located. The University of the Philippines at Los Baños and IRRI are five kilometers after our resort.

Source Splash Mountain

SPLASH MOUNTAIN
Km 58. Barangay Lalakay, Los Baños, 4030 Laguna
Splash Hotel: Tel. No. (0917) 583-2993; (049) 536-6399
Splash Oasis: Tel. No. (049) 536-6398

The Planetarium

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Last Sunday I attended the heritage walking tour in Manila city. I learned that May is a heritage month that's why all the Philippine National Museums under the care of National Museum are free for the whole month of May.

Yesterday I went to the knights of Columbus office in Intramuros, Manila so I visited the Planetarium, it's my first time to be there. I've been to the National Museum twice. While I was looking for the Planetarium I saw a policeman so I asked him where was the location of the Planetarium, he told me he thought I would give him something but not to ask for direction. He was just trying to be funny or flirty, whatever, he gave me a direction towards the National Museum. I already crossed two intersections when I saw a guard and asked for the location of the Planetarium. He said just walk straightly two intersections back and I would see the dome roof and that's the place I was looking for. Then I realized the place where the policeman was standing was the planetarium already. So I passed him and he said "ma'm I thought u were looking for National Museum", I looked at him with disgust. This is the kind of service to the Filipino people. He doesn't realize that he is representing the men in uniform. Shame on him.

I was the only one at that time visiting the Planetarium. As the name says it's about the planet and it's relation to humanity. I learned all about those things from school but it's great to be refreshed too. It was great to be a kid once more appreciating the Milky Way, constellations, planets and a whole lot more.

Calling all the parents to bring your kids to our house of our national heritage and treasure. Let them see and appreciate the beauty of life thru our Museums. Tickle their imaginations while learning the past. I hope the government can have the political will to empower more the people to participate in rediscovering our heritage and our being to be able to be good citizens and help in building our nation.

Come and visit our Museums, it's free and fun to discover. You still have time before the month of May ends. By the way every Sunday all year long, Philippine National Museums are free.

Mayon Volcano-the almost perfect cone

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 May 2014 02:19:00 +0000

Every time I would go home it is always refreshing to be greeted with amazing scenery. All the exhaustion are gone. It's really stress reliever seeing the natural wonder of the earth. Feel so blessed to see and experience once more the place that is close to my heart and soul. Hope in one of your trips you can consider visiting and exploring my beautiful region, Region V. You can find different adventures in this place from sight seeing to extreme adventures. It's the place of total package. Take time to explore and you will see the wonder of it's beauty. Come and visit Region V.

St. Andrew's Cathedral

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 06 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

The Cathedral Parish of St. Andrew, is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, which was established in 1580 by Spanish Augustinian friars. This Church is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Parañaque. It comprises Parañaque City, Muntinlupa City, and Las Piñas City. It is located in Quirino Avenue, La Huerta, Paranaque City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

St. Andrew’s Cathedral is also the Diocesan Shrine of Nuestra Señora del Buen Suceso. Last September 8, 2000, the image of Nuestra Señora del Buen Suceso was canonically crowned as the Patroness of the Parañaque City.

Quirino Avenue, La Huerta
Parañaque City, Philippines
Tel. +632826-1760
Fax: +632820-7178

Santa Rita de Cascia Parish-Baclaran Paranaque

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 05 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Santa Rita de Cascia Parish-Baclaran Paranaque is a small church but I love to attend the mass every now and then in here because just few parishioners coming over. It is in the heart of Bacalaran, where many bazaar are located. Santa Rita de Cascia parish is part of the Diocese of Paranaque. It is Located in Quirino Avenue, Baclaran, Parañaque City, Metro Manila

Quirino Avenue, Baclaran, Parañaque City, Metro Manila

Tel. Number s - +632832 1525; +6328323505

The National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help also known Baclaran Church

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 04 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

The National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help also known as Redemptorist Church and commonly known as the Baclaran Church. It is located in Baclaran, Paranaque city, Metro Manila, Philippines.

This is the shrine of one of the largest Marian churches in the Philippines, which features the icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. The devotion to Our Mother of Perpetual Help is popular amongst Filipino Catholics. Every Wednesday too many devotees who flood the church to attend Mass and pray theNovena to Our Mother of Perpetual Help. Wednesdays are considered as "Baclaran Day" due to congested roads brought on by pilgrims to the shrine.

The liturgical feast day of the Mother of Perpetual Help is celebrated on 27 June,.

Baclaran, Parañaque City, Metro Manila

telephone number: +6328321150 / +6328321151 / +6328335016

Malate Church

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 03 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Malate Church also known as Malate Catholic Church is a Baroque-style church, which faces the Rajah Sulaiman park and Manila Bay. The church is dedicated to the patroness of childbirth, Our Lady of Remedies or Nuestra Señora de Remedios. The statue of the Virgin Mary in her role as Our Lady of Remedies was brought from Spain in 1624 and to this day it is still there.

At this moment it is undergoing a restoration that’s why it is bare.

This church is popular place for wedding and baptism.

2000 M.H. Del Pilar St., Malate, Manila City, Metro Manila

Telephone Number: 523-2593 / 523-3168 / 400-5876