THE CHIC BACKPACKER

Dayang Beach Resort, Talicud Island IGACOS

2012-04-11T13:12:00.001+08:00

During our stay at Isla Reta Beach Resort, Talicud Island, IGACOS last week, we had the chance to visit Dayang Beach Resort located on the other side of the the Talicud island for some few hours. It is a not-so developed beach resort but with some basic amenities such as native room cottages, tables and chairs and a typical sari-sari store " small variety store".

We traveled from Isla Reta to Dayang via motorcycle

Coconut trees serve a shield from the heat of the sun

From Isla Reta beach resort, we rode a "habal-habal" (heavy duty motorcyle) going to Dayang beach for Php 50.00 each person. The nerve-wracking ride due to mountainous pathway lasts for about 20 minutes.

Most tourists in this beach brought and cooked their own food because there are no restaurants yet. There are grilling station for tourists who prefer to grill their food.

Rate : (source: samalbeaches.com)

Cottages

Closed Cottages (max of 3 persons) - Php 400.00

Bigger Cottages - Php 500.00

Tent(small) - Php 75.00

Tent(big) - Php 100.00

Duplex(Electric Fan)- Php 1,800.00

Activities

Case to case basis(negotiable) - Php 75.00/head

Entrance

Daytour - No Entrance Fee

*Price may change without prior notice

No Corkages

For more info or queries such as their latest cottage rates, just dial their contact number as seen in the picture below.

contact numbers : (082) 286-6730 / 09183868793 / 09994591318

Similar to Isla Reta, it also has a white but not too powdery sand.

Many tourists came via boat

How to Go To Isla Reta Beach Resort in Talicud, IGACOS

2012-04-09T08:52:00.000+08:00

Just some basic facts about IGacoS (Island Garden City of Samal) - There are two main Islands in IGACOS (I'm lazy writing the correct combination of capital and small letters so just let me simplify it ) , Samal Island and Talicud Island which are situated at the Southern point. Other smaller Islands namely Malipano, Big Liguid and Little Liguid are also part of the city. (source : samalcity.gov.ph )

Beach line of Isla Reta

Isla Reta has abundant trees which protect the tourists
from the scorching heat of the sun

For the main topic of this post, here's how to go to Isla Reta Beach Resort:

From Davao City:

Go to Sta. Ana wharf located just beside the Magsaysay Park.

At the Sta. Ana wharf entrance, ask a Coastguard or any local where to pay for Talicud-bound boat usually the payment area is located near the coastguard office. When we went there last Wednesday, the collector was at the waiting shed area near the coastguard office. It’s easy to spot because of the crowd of people around the area. Fare is Php 60.00 per adult person (as of this writing).

This is the regular daily schedule of ferries/ship bound for Talicud:

Name of ship Departure

MLBCA PACIFIC 10:00 AM

MBCA JESSA EXPRESS 12:30 PM

MBCA SHIRLEY 1:50 PM*

ML GRACE 3:15 PM*

*These ships will have a one stop at Kaputian first before going to Talicud.

Ships are slow-moving making travel time about one hour (for direct to Talicud ships).

Upon reaching Baybay Sta. Cruz , wharf in Talicud, walk towards Isla Reta Beach Resort which is about 10-minute walk from the wharf. Ask a local for the direction.

Some helpful tips and info :

Bring your own food and cooking essentials if possible. Foods in Isla Reta are expensive for a budget-traveler. You can bring and cook your own food without any charges (except for drinks which they charge with 25% of their corresponding price).

There are available fresh and affordable fish just outside the gate of Isla Reta. You may buy and cook these fish without any charges.

Bring insect repellent lotions. Better safe than sorry.

Accomodation (no aircon rooms)

Concrete Room(max of 2 persons) - Php 800.00/night

Native Room(max of 3 persons) - Php 700.00/night

Dormitory Type(max of 15 persons) - Php 3,500.00

Tent - Php 400.00 per night

Rates

Cottages

Picnic Hut - Php 150.00/night

Table under Talisay Tree - Free of charge

w/ bed(single or double)

Open Cottages - Free

Beddings Rental

Complete bed - Php 80.00/set

Mattress - Php 40.00

Blanket - Php 20.00

Pillow - Php 20.00

Mat - Php 30.00

Entrance

Daytour - Php 75.00/head

Overnight - Php 150.00/head

Overnight(Kids) - Php 75.00/head

3 years old and below - Free

4 to 10 years old/half - Php 35.00

For more info, queries or reservations dial their telephone or cellphone number below

(in the picture).

Isla Reta Beach Resort, Talicud, IGACOS

2012-04-08T14:50:00.002+08:00

We spent 3 days and 2 nights camping at Isla Reta Beach Resort in Sta. Cruz, Talicud, Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS). It was my first time to go on camping and I love it. I never thought camping could be this fun and comfortable. I thought I would feel uncomfortable camping alongside the beach because of the sand and whatever sea animals or insects around but it was never our problem. In fact we were glad that we had chosen the tent rather than the resort’s available nipa hut room which we don’t like at all because the room has a very small window hence its too hot and dark inside.

At Isla Reta private wharf where the resorts' own boat docks.

White sand beach

What I like about this beach resort:

Crystal clear water

White sand (though it has too many rocks and dead sea shells)

The tents’ brand is Coleman which I think is of good quality. The rent costs us Php 400.00 per night, plus Php 150.00 each for overnight stay, so all in all Php 700.00 per night accommodation.

Near my hometown Davao City. Just an hour and a half boat ride from Sta. Ana wharf.

Staffs were nice and accommodating to customers.

Marvin at our tent.
There where very few tents when we arrived on Wednesday a day before Maundy Thursday

Nice view taken from our tent

Another shot taken from our tent on a different angle

What I don’t like about this beach resort:

Pricey and limited food choices and drinks

Beach has too many rocks and dead sea shells, jelly fish, no corals and few fish.

The beach is relatively small.

There are few comfort rooms and shower rooms. We were there on Maundy Thursday until Good Friday when there were many tourists with limited CR and shower rooms (plus the salty water was not running regularly during that time, I don’t know why) so it was really frustrating.

Pricey menu

At the main restaurant

Victim of jelly fish

All in all I enjoyed our stay because it was my first time to go on camping in a beach and I was comfortable (except about the CR and shower rooms) sleeping inside the tent. I know I shouldn’t but I really can’t help compare all the beaches I’ve visited to El Nido, Palawan which I think has the best beaches in the Philippines. Beaches in El Nido, Palawan will forever be the perfect beach for me but I also appreciate other beaches as well, like Isla Reta Beach Resort.

Crystal clear water

My next post is about how to go to Isla Reta Beach Resort and some helpful tips. :)

How to Go to Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

2012-04-07T14:01:00.000+08:00

I toured the two most popular tourist destinations in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato last week. These are Lake Sebu 7 Falls ( story here) and Punta Isla Lake Resort (story here).

One of the 7 falls

Picturesque view at Punta Isla Lake Resort

Going to Lake Sebu is not really difficult but its a bit tiring due to several bus transfers. Here’s my suggested route when going to Lake Sebu:

From General Santos City:

From city proper (e.g. Robinson’s Mall) hop a tricycle and go to the public terminal in BULAONG. Fare is about Php 15.00 each.

From GenSan airport to Bulaong public terminal fixed rate is Php 250.00 all-in.

At the Bulaong public terminal, ride a Yellow Bus Line (YBL) bus going to Marbel, aka Koronadal City. Fare price varies according to the type of bus, premium bus fare is about Php 83.00.

From Marbel public terminal, look for the YBL's bus enroute to Surralah. Fare varies according to bus type, premium bus fare is about Php 25.00.

From Surralah integrated terminal, look for vans going to Lake Sebu.

If you are in a group, better rent the van there and go directly to either Lake Sebu 7 Falls or Punta Isla Lake Resort or both. You can rent the van for the whole day trip or have your group be dropped at Punta Isla for overnight stay. Van rental is according to your agreement with the driver or owner which is also based on your itinerary.

If you will just ride the van, it will go directly to the terminal in the poblacion proper of Lake Sebu.

If you prefer to go directly to 7 Falls, inform the driver to drop you by at the 7 Falls crossing then from there ride a motorcycle in going to the entrance of 7 Falls.

7 Falls crossing
This is along the main highway of Lake Sebu

NOTE : There are 2 entrances leading to the 7 Falls – the upper and the bottom part of the mountain.

My suggestion - enter at the bottom part of the mountain then walk through the 774 steps leading to the upper part, then from the upper part ride the zip line (Php 250.00) in going back to the bottom.

774 steps which connects the Upper and Bottom part of the mountain

But if you prefer to go first to Punta Isla, refer to the next step.

From Lake Sebu town proper terminal, hop a motorcycle (“single”) and go to Punta Isla Lake Resort . Fare is about Php 15.00 per head.

TIP - From Surallah integrated terminal, you will pass by 7 Falls first so it is better to tour this place first in the morning then go to Punta Isla later for lunch and overnight stay.

Entrance of Punta Isla Lake Resort

At the main dining area of Punta Isla

This is where we had lunch during our visit.

From Davao City:

Go to Davao City terminal in Ecoland. Look for the Yellow Bus Line (YBL) buses going to General Santos City (GenSan) or Marbel if there’s any (most often than not, bus with route to Marbel will stop in GenSan and you should transfer to other bus when going to Marbel . Bus fare to GenSan varies according to bus type premium non-stop bus is about Php 255.00.

Travel time is about 4-5 hours better look for the YBL’s NON-STOP AIRCON bus to expedite.

YBL pass by their own small private terminal before going to the public terminal in General Santos City. Always ask the conductor for any clarification.

You may stop at Robinson’s Mall for lunch or snack and then follow the steps “From General Santos City” above.

view of the falls from afar

Note: There are also other lake resorts in Lake Sebu aside from Punta Isla. Some are newly opened. Punta Isla is one of the pioneering lake resorts in the area.

Surallah, South Cotabato

2012-04-02T11:08:00.001+08:00

There is really nothing much in Surallah for any adventure-seeking tourist except that you will pass by this municipality when going to Lake Sebu where lakes and falls are some of the best tourist attractions. But since its Marvin’s hometown, we often visit the place whenever we can. There is a certain joy in coming home after all.

Here are some of our photos worth noting during the trip.

The Round Ball - cultural landmark at the town's center road
Designed by famous Mindanaoan sculpture and artist Kublai Millan, who also designed huge statues in People's Park, Davao City

New restaurant along the highway, near the Round Ball.

Bidz Inasal has the tastiest halo-halo for only Php 55.00
It has generous servings of leche flan, ube, banana, jack fruit, milk and ice cream.
If you are in Surallah, I recommend you try this.

Punta Isla Lake Resort, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

2012-03-31T10:00:00.000+08:00

We had a nice day at Punta Isla Lake Resort last week. Unlike our previous visit in 2010 when we had an overnight stay, last week was just lunch and sightseeing. This lake front property with well-landscaped hilly garden still never fail to charm me with its serene environment perfect for relaxing.

Lush garden fronting the lake.
The red roof is a floating restaurant.

Main dining area near the entrance.
There are more cottage-type dining areas near the lake.

Nilasing na Tilapia costs Php 190.00 good for 4 persons.
Their specialty is the different recipes of freshly harvested tilapia (a fresh-water fish).
This is my favorite recipe since I first tasted it last 2010.
I love the crunchy texture of these fish fillet dipped into the sukang pinakurat (spiced tuba vinegar).

Grilled Tilapia costs Php 95.00 only.
Their tilapia tastes a bit sweet.

Mango shake for only Php 50.00

Unique shell-formed washing area.

This resort has an impressive landscaped hilly garden.

Front of Punta Isla Lake Resort

Punta Isla Lake Resort is around 44 kms away from Koronadal City, the capital of the province and about 600 meters away from the town of Lake Sebu.

source : freewebs.com/puntaislaresort/

For more info such as room rates, visit their website - www.freewebs.com/puntaislaresort/

.

Luz Kinilaw Place in Davao City

2012-03-30T07:56:00.001+08:00

Luz Kinilaw Place is a well-known old barbecue eatery in Davao City. It's more of a ''carinderiaria"- type than a typical restaurant because of it's unassuming look and affordable price. It is favored by many diners who crave for grilled foods and yet want to skip the usual high-cholesterol grilled pork. It is known for it's freshly grilled tuna parts such as panga (jaw), belly, buntot (tail) and other seafood such as grilled squid. Its specialty is the freshly grilled tuna panga (jaw). Though known for it's grilled tuna and seafoods, it also serves grilled chicken and other dishes of tuna such as tuna kinilaw (cubed sashimi) and tuna soup.

Huge Tuna Tail for Php 280.00

Tuna Kinilaw for Php 100.00
Good for 2 persons

Luz Kinilaw Place is recommended to diners in a group like a family of four because of the large servings of grilled foods. The tuna belly we ordered is good for four persons already so since there were only the two of us, we ended having a take-out food for the leftover.

The low-key interior

Luz Kinilaw Place is located along the Quezon Boulevard, Davao City near the Magsaysay Park.

The facade of Luz Kinilaw Place

The chic backpacker eats

Lake Sebu 7 Falls, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

2012-03-28T21:36:00.001+08:00

I had a great time last week trekking around the mountainous Lake Sebu 7 Falls. It is one of the main attractions in South Cotabato aside from the lake resorts. As the name implies it is comprised of 7 falls though we were able to visit only the two falls (time constraint did not allow us to visit the other falls) and is in the municipality of Lake Sebu, under the province of South Cotabato.

One of the 7 falls and first falls you'll see from the main entrance
(top part of the mountain) of the falls.

Lake Sebu 7 Falls is one of my reasons for including Lake Sebu as one of my top Philippine destinations. For travelers who love trekking the mountain and visiting the waterfalls, this destination is definitely the place to go. Though I am not really into mountains ( I prefer the beach ) I enjoyed hiking this hilly tourist attraction for some nice view of the waterfalls.

Picture above is the second falls we visited. It is the falls near the bottom part of the mountain.

When going to Lake Sebu 7 Falls, it is advisable to rent a vehicle ( jeep or van) from Surallah (a nearby municipality) public terminal if you are in a group. The distance is about 25 kilometers with no traffic. Since it’s Marvin’s home province we just traveled via motorcycle from his parent's home in Surallah, South Cotabato.

Walking through the 774 steps, going down the mountain
from the entrance above

This is my second time in this place, the first one was on August 2010. For about a year and a half, I noticed the increase of visitors.

View of the falls from afar

lush of plants and trees

Zip line cost Php 250.00 per person.
I did not ride though because I'm a bit scared of heights.

Affordable Buffet in Davao City - Tita D'z

2012-03-16T20:28:00.002+08:00

We just paid a visit to my hometown's downtown proper in celebration of Araw ng Davao. The parade was not as grand as I expected it to be nevertheless I enjoyed strolling around with my hubby. After walking and standing for hours for the parade, we had a sumptuous eat-all-you-can buffet lunch at Tita D'z.

For me- Rice, Fried boneless bangus, vegetable lumpia, sweet and sour fish, pancit, fish kinilaw and chicken adobo

For Marvin- Rice, Pork humba, chicken adobo and pancit

For dessert- Watermelon, buko pandan and leche flan

this leche flan taste so good

I have mentioned Tita D'z in my previous blog post as one of the cheap things to do in Davao City. For today's lunch, they served Filipino cuisine which I absolutely love. There were many different tasty viands to choose from.You can choose fish, pork or/and chicken cooked in various recipes not to mention their delicious Filipino desserts. As usual I'd say that for Php 129.00, you get more than your money's worth.

Tita D'z is located along Iñigo St.(formerly Anda St.), Davao City.

Eat-all-you-can Filipino dishes

inside Tita D'z

waiter refilling the food

exterior of Tita D'z

Affordable Native Cottages in Sabang, Puerto Princesa

2012-03-14T11:36:00.001+08:00

When we were in Sabang, Puerto Princesa last month we stayed at Penao Native Cottages near the Sabang wharf, for 2 nights at Php 750.00 per night. It is a two-bed, fan room with CR and shower room. This beachfront native cottage is by no means a luxury inn hence the affordable price.

I was not so comfortable during our stay because of mosquitoes roaming around even inside the room. Though it has window screens, I wish the floor is cemented and not wood since mosquitoes can easily enter the room through the small openings in the floor. I also wish that they had painted the interior room with any light color to deter the mosquitoes from entering.

our room at Penao Native Cottages

Our room was located just beside the Penao Restaurant, which offers affordable set meals ranging from Php 80.00-100.00. We had our breakfast in the balcony of our room which has a nice view of the Sabang beach.

Penao Restaurant just beside our room

Sabang beach

There is no electricity in Sabang. They only use generator and operates only on certain hours ( 4 pm – 6 am). It is very advisable to bring mosquito repellent since you can’t always use the electric fan. We were not able to bring mosquito repellent hence the discomfort especially when we slept.

Foggy morning in Sabang

There are many rooms for rent near the Sabang wharf fronting the Sabang beach. From affordable native cottages like Penao and Roberts to name the few to high-end resort like Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa.

at the upscale Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa

Sabang is the drop-off point when going to the Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR). It is about 4-5 hours from Puerto Princesa City (we traveled via motorcycle btw).Since it is far from PPC some visitors going to the Underground River go there at least a day in advance to avoid being late for the scheduled visit in the PPUR. There are also other things you can do in Sabang aside from the PPUR. One can do trekking to the mountain trails and waterfalls, snorkeling and swimming.

tourists coming from the Underground River tour

Information map displayed at the wharf office

Balinsasayaw Restaurant in Puerto Princesa City

2012-03-13T17:24:00.000+08:00

We dined twice at Balinsasayaw Chicken Grill and Restaurant (along Rizal Avenue) during our stay in Puerto Princesa City last month. To sum it all up, it is a hit and miss restaurant when it comes to food tastes , I think . We love the generous servings of the garlic crab and garlic shrimp (Php 280.00) but we don't like the taste of the sweet and sour Lapu-lapu fish (Php 220.00 medium size). The pork sisig and fish lumpia taste nothing extraordinary. The price is relatively affordable though and a bit cheaper than Kinabuch Restaurant. The whole restaurant is large with different dining areas and have a nice ambiance but the service in general is not that good especially if your table is far from the main dining area where the waiters stand by.

Two large crabs for Php 350.00 only.

Pork sisig for Php 180.00

Lush garden at the center of the restaurant

front view of Balinsasayaw Restaurant at night

Movie Marathon- The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo and Dream House Movie Review

2012-03-10T14:29:00.000+08:00

Watching movies is one of my hobby. It maybe to a movie house or from the internet download. Marvin and I had a movie marathon in the past few days. Yesterday we watched Dream House at Gaisano Mall of Davao. We paid Php 130.00 each for the VIP lounge movie house. And in the past few days, we downloaded and watched the Swedish movie entitled The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo.

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo (we watched the original Swedish version and not the hollywood version) is a brutal mystery and suspense drama movie that keeps me captivated from start to end. Although the original language used was that of Sweden, it was dubbed in English in a way that I almost forgot that the characters in the film actually speak Swedish. The dubbing was indeed well-done.

I recommend this movie to all moviegoers out there. It has a hollywood version which also received positive reviews from movie critics. The story is based on the book written by the late Swedish author and journalist Stieg Larsson. The well-woven tale, the casts superb performance especially the character of Lisbeth Salander and the convincing cinematography made it a must-see movie.

Dream House on the other hand is a wonky mystery and suspense psychological thriller that left me confused. It doesn't hold up to close rational scrutiny. There is an intriguing idea in the story but it flattens as it tries to explain the main character's psychological state.This suburban suspense/horror/mystery movie is difficult to comprehend with its badly muddled plot. Well, the only positive review about this movie is the fairly good performance of the main characters. Better let this movie pass up.

good casts in a not-so-good movie

photo credits to collider.com

Why I Love El Nido

2012-03-08T19:43:00.000+08:00

I've mentioned so many times how much I love El Nido, Palawan that I think of relocating there one day. I love El Nido not only for its beautiful beaches or lagoons but for the peace and simplicity of the whole society in general. The municipality of El Nido is my ideal place to live. It’s generally peaceful and clean despite the many tourists taking their vacation there.

snorkeling at Hidden Beach

Beach front in the town proper of El Nido

me at the Secret Beach

PEOPLE

The people in Palawan were the nicest people I’ve met. I don’t know if it’s just circumstantial but throughout my 7 days in Palawan, I’ve never met a single person who has taken advantage of me as a first time tourist or of any vacationing foreigners I knew for that matter. Tricycle drivers, street vendors, tour operators and even random people I spoke with in the streets were so nice, honest and welcoming. This is very opposite in other areas in the Philippines wherein it is not uncommon for a taxi driver to take advantage of any tourist by asking more than the supposed metered rate. It happens to me in Manila several times. In Palawan, nobody asked me for more than the published minimum tricycle rate of Php 20.00. Except of course when the destination is too far or during the night and dawn wherein they charged more than the minimum fare which I understand.

locals running errands in El Nido

at the town proper of El Nido, pretty much like any rural town proper in the country

PLACES

El Nido is undoubtedly for me, the most beautiful place I’ve been to. The unbelievably clear water on white pristine beaches were so inviting that I went swimming and sunbathing until I got sunburn. I only stopped swimming when my skin hurts too much. I was too excited that I forgot to put on the sun block by the way. The sunburn took a toll on my skin that it turned flaky in the next few days. Nevertheless, I’m happy.

The experience of getting into the Secret Beach through the small hole of the gigantic limestone cliffs amid the huge waves is just exhilarating. I will never forget that awesome experience.

The marvelous corals, fishes and different marine animals in El Nido add charm to the already beautiful place. I will never forget when we went fish-feeding. The different varieties of fish in El Nido confidently eat the food waste we threw at them as if they are used to having these people around them. Maybe they already are used.

going back to El Nido's town proper after our island hopping tour

fishes in El Nido

LIFESTYLE

The lifestyle in El Nido is distinctly simple. Nowadays tourism is the most promising industry. Hotels, inns, tour operators, shops are sprouting around the town proper. Most of the establishments are either family- owned or sole proprietorship. I haven’t seen any big companies such as Jollibee, hotel chains or SM serving the area which makes it unique and distinct from other commercial beaches such as Boracay.

morning in El Nido

some of the growing businesses in El Nido- massage spa center

relatively clean street of El Nido

Business related to tourism is ever-growing in El Nido

I have been to different places in the Philippines like Manila, Iloilo, Cebu and of course Davao but El Nido really differs from it all because of its beauty, environment and of course the people.

Unofficially Yours – Movie Review

2012-03-05T12:35:00.001+08:00

I’m glad that Philippine-made romantic-comedy movies are gearing away from what used to be traditional “pa-tweetums” or showing only conservative sweet-images of stars. Today more than ever, romantic movie’s themes are a bit more realistic with the modern times. One of which is Unofficially Yours billed by two of the country’s bankable young stars- Angel Locsin and John Lloyd Cruz.

Yesterday, Marvin and I went to watch the movie at Gaisano Mall of Davao on impulse. For Php 100.00 per person at lower seat which I always prefer by the way, I’d say it’s worth it because the movie is generally entertaining. Though not all the details are realistic, such as the career change of John Llyod’s character which I think is unlikely and the possibility that two unrelated individuals will have a one-night stand and later on were to work together, nevertheless the movie’s main topic about unattached relationship status is realistic and interesting.

The movie touches the quite common modern relationship dilemma – do relationship really needs an official status? The two main characters were first engaged in a one night stand and later on found themselves falling in love with each other. Angel’s character is about a liberated career-minded modern-day woman who vows never to fall in-love again because of her past major heartbreak which left her almost with nothing. John Lloyd, on the other hand, is the gentleman who despite some major relationship break ups he had in his past relationship, is still hoping to find The One for him. Two characters, two different approaches to heartbreak. Will they ever reconcile?

Ladies, the movie is best watched with your husband, boyfriend or single lady friends. It will touched your heart with it’s simple message about love –that loving is taking chances and risking and yet it will make you laugh with some of it’s comical scenes. With two of the good actors in the country as lead characters, the movie will make you ponder more about love in a good way.

Affordable Food Choices in El Nido

2012-03-03T12:14:00.001+08:00

Food tripping in El Nido is never really a problem for as long as you are not choosy and you eat within your budget. There are a lot of restaurants in El Nido, from pricey restaurants to cheap eateries. Different variety of foods - like seafoods, pizzas, filipino cuisine and even foreign cuisine such as steaks and hamburgers are available. There are also a lot of affordable “carienderias” (eateries) around which sell cheap Filipino foods. At night, there are some barbeque stands that sell street foods like isaw (pork or chicken intestines),atay (liver), hotdogs and many more. In the morning, bakeries sell cheap, typical filipino hot pandesal (bread).

Yummy Garlic Shrimp & Chicken Adobo set meal
Php 250.00 only (without drinks) at Og's restaurant (near Marina Garden)

Grilled Fish & Chop suey set meal
Php 250.00 only also from Og's restaurant

Beachfront view from Og's restaurant

Dinner at Sea Slug restobar

Steak with fries around Php 400.00
Vegetable Salad around Php 180.00

Garlic shrimp (again) around Php 280.00

For those who are planning to go to El Nido, never worry about food choices and prices because there are many variety of food choices for every budget.

Marina Garden Beachfront Inn, El Nido, Palawan

2012-03-02T11:14:00.001+08:00

I thought all the rooms of Marina Garden Beachfront Inn in El Nido, Palawan were pricey but when Marvin and I inquired about their nipa cottages, we were a bit surprised to learn that they have an affordable twin-bed, fan room which costs only Php 750.00 per night.

Native Cottage similar to the one where we stay.

It was the only affordable room available and was reserved by other guest after two nights. Seeing the pleasant environment of the Inn, we availed the room for the next two nights. Rooms for rent especially those which are beach-front are easily fully booked in El Nido although there are still many more affordable rooms available around El Nido mostly are a bit far from beach.

I like the simplicity, cleanliness and affordability of this room. Aside from being a beach-front property, I also like the over-all pleasant and cozy environment of this inn. For nipa cottages, the comfort room is common but it’s fine with us because it’s shared by two rooms only so it’s not really crowded.

The staffs are nice and approachable. They serve breakfast set meal for Php 120.00 (American or Filipino breakfast set meal, without drinks ), instant coffee for Php 20.00 which are a bit pricey but more affordable as compared to other hotels nearby.

I can’t think of the downside of this inn, I think Php 750.00 is worth it. They are easily reserved, so for those who want to stay there when in El Nido, better book a room beforehand. They also have other premium type of rooms available. This hotel is accessible from the bus terminal, just hop a tricycle and instruct the driver to go to Marina Garden hotel. Tricycle fare is Php 20.00 only all-in. Here is Marina Garden’s website.

First photo above is from Marina's website.

How To Go To El Nido, Palawan

2012-03-01T07:57:00.000+08:00

I rank El Nido, Palawan as my top 1 in the best places I've been to so far. Beach-lover travelers will surely be fascinated by this paradise in the Philippines. As I've mentioned in my previous post, I really love El Nido that I think of living here in the future.

view from Matinloc Shrine

Marvin at the Hidden Beach

For those who wish or plan to travel to El Nido, hope this post will serve as your guide.

El Nido can be reached from Manila, Philippines through:

AIRPLANE - SeaAir's Manila-El Nido Direct Flight

NOTE: SeaAir going to El Nido from Manila is very expensive that is why only few travelers avail of this.

SHIP - Atienza Shipping Lines Manila - El Nido via Coron

Cost is around Php 1,200 including meals. Travel time is about 30 hours. According to a local, trip time really varies according to vessel's cargo shipment, weather and other factors.

AIRPLANE from Manila to Puerto Princesa City then BUS or VAN from Puerto Princesa City (PPC) to El Nido

This is an alternative to the pricey SeaAir's direct flight to El Nido.
There are more affordable airline choices going to Puerto Princesa City than directly going to El Nido.Airlines like PAL, Cebu Pacific, Air Phil and Zest Air have regular daily flight from Manila to PPC.
You can make the most out of your time by touring Puerto Princesa City which also offers some nice places for tourists. Inquire about the city tour in any travel agency or tour operators which is located just anywhere in the city's major streets or you can just tour the city on your own to save money.
Alternatively, you can also reached El Nido by going to Coron instead of Puerto Princesa City and then from Coron you can hop on a ferry to El Nido. Just ask a local about M/BCA Jessabel ( Coron-El Nido and vv).

NOTE : This is costly at Php 2,200 per person so I suggest the MANILA - PPC - EL NIDO

route because it is more affordable. That is if you want to tour other place aside from El

Nido. Otherwise, if you want to go to El Nido directly then I suggest Atienza Shipping

Lines from Manila.

PPC - El Nido now more accessible as compare to some few years ago.
The new RORO Bus which travels from PPC to El Nido costs Php 485.00. Or you can travel through van which is more faster for only Php 600.00 per person. Travel time for bus is about 6 hours while van is about 5 hours with stopovers for breakfast and lunchtime.
RORO Bus departure time to El Nido is 6:00 AM and 2:00 PM only. There are other cheaper bus also. Just be sure to be early in San Jose Terminal, where buses are located, if you are to travel through bus. From Rizal Ave. cor National Highway in PPC, you can ride a jeep going to San Jose Terminal. Fare is Php 13.00 only per person. Or better yet for more convenience just hire a tricycle going to San Jose Terminal. Fare is about Php 50.00-80.00 all-in, depending on the time.

the new RORO bus which travels from PPC to EL NIDO

How to Get the Permit and Go to the Underground River

2012-02-28T11:02:00.000+08:00

Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR) is truly one of Philippine's pride. Being one of the New7Wonders of Nature, it put the country on the map. There is a gigantic increase of tourists, foreign and local, who want to go to this well-known spot in Palawan since it's official inclusion to the worldwide search of New7Wonders of Nature.

PPC to Sabang is about 2 hours-drive

Going to the Underground River is a bit bewildering. Well, I would say going to Palawan in general is a bit bewildering especially for first-time tourists. Mainly because Palawan is comprised of many small and big islands scattered around and there are limited choices of public utility vehicle available.

This post will serve as your guide in going to one of the most famous tourist's spot in Palawan- the Underground River.

The Underground River is basically part of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP) also known as St. Paul Subterranean River National Park, a protected area in the Philippines. It is located about 50 km. north from Puerto Princesa City.

I've discussed in my previous post that getting Visitor's Entry Permit (VEP), a necessity in going to the PPUR, is very hard nowadays. Don't expect you can get your desired schedule nowadays. The government of Palawan has controlled the entry permit of the river. I've heard that schedule are fully-booked until May 2012. I suggest you get a tour agent to secure you the permit before you even finalize your vacation.

Sometimes if not most of the times, cancellations of the VEP happens. For whatever unknown reasons, the people who were scheduled to tour the river will not show up so it is still possible that you can get one. BUT that is if there is any cancellations. We got our desired schedule VEP when we went to Sabang, a drop-off point when going to the river. There is an office of Protected Area Management Board (PAMB), a government agency in-charged of selling the VEP located just near the wharf/port. It is where we availed the cancelled VEP in the morning and toured the river in the afternoon.

Sabang beach

If you could not get a permit through tour agent in Puerto Princesa City, I suggest you find an agent or whoever you know who lives in Sabang, Puerto Princesa. I think final cancellations are done in Sabang office. They are the one who finalizes the visitors for the day. Have your agent inquire in this office for any chance schedule.

Granted that you already have your permit, here's my suggested route in going to the river.

NOTE: This is for those who will DIRECTLY tour the Underground River. If you have other things you want to do like touring the Puerto Princesa City or Honda Bay, then you can do so by changing/ modifying some routes or schedule.

From Manila, go to Puerto Princesa City via plane (Cebu Pacific, PAL,Air Phil or Zest Air).

Upon reaching Puerto Princesa City, hire a van or bus going to Sabang
Boat Terminal, about 80 km from PPC. As I've said this is the drop-off point in visiting the river.

I recommend the van (any van rental operators for that matter) because it is more convenient, faster and has more schedule of departure to Sabang. You can inquire at any van rental operators in the airport or outside the airport. Most if not all, van rental fees and even tour packages are STANDARD PRICE. Meaning, there are no overpricing or maybe there are but I have never encountered one. They are that nice, trust me. People in Palawan are the nicest people I've encountered. Van fare from PPC to Sabang is usually Php 200.00 per person or a package fare for group of individuals. Just inquire to any van operators.

If there is no trip schedule to Sabang upon your arrival in PPC, have an overnight stay at any hotel/inn in the city. I suggest Princesa Inn as discuss in this post. Then travel the next day to Sabang.

Upon reaching Sabang Boat Terminal, you'll find a lot of cottages, inns and hotels scattered infront of the Sabang beach. There are affordable inns to choose from. We stayed at Panao's cottage for Php 750.00 a night. Find your preferred inn and get ready for your scheduled PPUR tour.

At least one hour before your scheduled visit, you must already be at the boat terminal where staffs of PAMB are present to assist you in getting a boat to and from the Underground River. Boat fee is Php 700.00 good for 6 persons. Find some companion to split the price.

Upon reaching the PPSRNP, there are again some staffs of PAMB who will guide you along the way to the tour.

Enjoy the tour!

tourists entering the UR

The Underground River of Puerto Princesa

2012-02-27T06:49:00.000+08:00

The Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR) is one of the best travel destinations for me. If I'll have a top 3 Philippine travel destinations, for sure this is included in my list. I will never forget the experience of touring this nature's wonder. It's like going into a different world. Unlike Disneyland, Underground River is the masterpiece of nature. It's a magnificent world of the cave and it's natural inhabitants like the bats. I was amazed by the majestic formations of stalagmites and stalactites which are definitely a feast to one's eyes.

entering the Underground River

Marvin and I had experienced some difficulties before we were able to tour the Underground River. Story here. Unexpectedly, we got another permit as discussed in my previous post. The 45 minutes tour was worth all the efforts we've exerted.

We were about 9 persons in a boat including the boatman. The boatman who is also the tour guide (yes they do dual jobs..really amazing) discussed some interesting facts about the Underground River in a humorous way. Nobody got bored during the 45 minutes tour. But even if the boatman/ tour guide will not talk at all, I will definitely still enjoy the tour because of the amazing views inside the cave. The boatman ecstatically explains (note: in fluent English) how Underground River was discovered, when was it opened to the public, what are the the different animals in the cave and many other facts.

Inside the Underground River is very dark. We only used one flashlight to lighten the interesting part of the cave one at a time. The boatman/ tour guide instructs the person holding the flashlight as to where he should position the flashlight and then he (boatman/tour guide) discusses some interesting facts about that stalactite/stalagmite formation or any part of the cave. Stalactite and stalagmite formations of birds, mushrooms, snakes, flowers and even human beings will leave you think and wonder how did it form. Big light bulbs are prohibited inside the Underground River because it will destruct the natural way of life of the animals such as the bats.

Underground River is definitely one of nature's wonder. It's unique, bizarre world of the dark that will leave anyone amazed at the beauty of nature.

The water of the Underground River is a combination of seawater and freshwater.

exit of the Underground River

Kinabuch Restaurant - Puerto Princesa City

2012-02-25T20:28:00.000+08:00

I love this all fresco dining restaurant located along Rizal Avenue in Puerto Prinsesa City. Many tourist-bloggers have written good reviews about this well-known restaurant in Puerto Princesa City. I'm convinced, Kinabuch Restaurant is worth raving for mainly because it serves mouth-watering Filipino dishes at an affordable price.

our favorite in Kinabuch Restaurant

all fresco dining at night

I together with Marvin, have dined there twice and it didn't disappoint us a bit. The price is reasonably fair. A cup of rice costs Php 20 only. The taste is great. The service is good enough, a bit slow sometimes but it's understandable considering the many customers they are serving. The ambiance is beautiful. Even foreigner-tourists love this restaurant. I've seen a lot of foreigners there when we dined twice. Unsurprisingly, this restaurant is always full-packed with diners at around dinner time.

Our favorite kinilaw costs Php 170.

Sizzling shrimp costs Php 220

Grilled tuna belly below costs only Php 190

Ube halaya (jam) below was the best ube jam I've ever tasted. Only Php 50.

so happy after the meal

Shogun Suites Hotel - Pasay, MM

2012-02-24T08:59:00.000+08:00

I am captivated by the simplicity, accessibility and affordability of this hotel. I stayed here last week for seven days and now I'm back. It is located along Taft corner Edsa. I recommend this place to those who want to stay in Manila for some few days for work or pleasure. The location is great. It is very near the LRT and MRT just about 3 minutes walk and since it is along the highway, there are jeepneys and taxis just outside. It is also near the airport, just about 20-30 minutes taxi drive. Marvin and I never had any problems going around the busy streets of Manila thanks to the nice location of this hotel.

our room last week

Room has free simple toiletries like shampoo, soap,toothpaste and toothbrush

our room today

Last week, we stayed at Phuket themed room which they also call Superior Room B (Phuket theme) which costs Php 1,700 per night. It includes complimentary breakfast for 2 and free pick-up from the airport. I didn't know about the free pick-up then so I was not able to avail it. But today, Marvin and I was picked up from the airport by the hotel's staff which is a real breeze for travelers alike. We are currently staying at the more affordable Php 1,500 per night. The theme is Venice and this is also under Superior Room B but different theme. It's a very nice room, the paint is very pleasant to the eyes just like our previous room. The only difference aside from the theme of the room is the absence of mini-refrigerator in this room hence the lesser price. But it's very fine with us.

Their complimentary breakfast is a modest (nothing fancy) Filipino breakfast like longsilog.

The only thing that irk me the last time was the smell of the room. I smelled something foul, my sister who visited me then said it was because of the retained cigarette smoke which may have come from the previous guest. She might be right because there was an empty ashtray at the coffee table which might have been used by the previous guest. After some few hours the foul odor had dispersed. Today, in this new room I can't think of any negative comment so far.

One thing I like in this hotel is the nice view of the city skyline through the glass window.

view from our previous room, today's room has a similar nice view too

I don't mind going back in this hotel over and over again when I'm in Manila. Anyway they have many different themes/look for their rooms, I might just request for a different theme after the other so as not to get tired staying in Phuket or Venice always. Maybe try other themes like Boracay, Hawaii, Broadway or Taj Mahal. There are a lot of choices depending on the availability of course. Better yet make a reservation first which is what we did last week for our room today.

For more info and photos of the hotel here's their facebook account. You may also make a reservation there.

El Nido – A Paradise

2012-02-23T15:03:00.000+08:00

Paradise. This is how I will describe El Nido, Palawan in one word. I’m in Manila now but I just can’t stop thinking about my three glorious days in El Nido. I’ve been into nice beaches in the Philippines like Boracay, Cebu and in Davao but nothing compares El Nido. Yes I fell in love with El Nido that I want to live there! I will live there (universe please). Even some foreigners chose to live in El Nido. Some of the business owners there are foreigners who invested much money and effort in the place in order to live in paradise.

view from Matinloc Shrine

It’s more than just white pristine beaches with crystal clear water. It’s more than just towering jagged limestone cliffs. It’s a great adventure with nature. Imagine going into a small opening of a huge limestone cliffs of the Secret Lagoon and Secret Beach, taking into account the proper timing against the huge waves in entering the beach otherwise you'll end up in the hospital. It's a bit scary but upon entering inside, you’ll realize that the effort is all worth it because of the beauty of the beach. It’s fun. It’s a great adventure. It’s simply an amazing experience.

This is the inside the Secret Beach. Great for snorkeling.

The snorkeling is another great experience. It was my first time. I was mesmerized by the beauty of the underwater world. I never thought how beautiful the corals, fishes and other animals under the sea are. They are all fantastic.

Here are some of the things to do in El Nido while on Island-hopping:

SNORKELING

FISH-FEEDING

SWIMMING ADVENTURE

going to a small entry of Small Lagoon

swimming at Hidden Beach

SIGHTSEEING

Our co-tourist, a lady from Sweden enjoyed the gorgeous view

view from Matinloc Shrine

perfect white sand of Hidden Beach

SUNBATHING

EL NIDO, PALAWAN ISLAND-HOPPING 2

2012-02-21T21:51:00.000+08:00

Marvin and I just came from our second island-hopping tour here in El Nido, Palawan. Again for the second time we were amazed and mesmerized by the beauty of the islands. The places are simply divine with it's unbelievably clear water and amazing cliff formations not to mention the beautiful corals. This is nature at it's best. The pristine white beaches are world-class that even foreigners were amazed with it's beauty. There were more foreigners than Filipino tourists here. El Nido, I think will be one of the best known beaches in the world.

This is the what they call TOUR C. Yesterday we did the TOUR A. There are four tours in all. Each tour is different from the other. So there are no repeating of islands in each tour. There are many small islands surrounding El Nido and Palawan as a whole. These are the standard island-hopping tour in El Nido. And the price are all standard, meaning regardless of where you book, the prices are all the same. No overpricing which is good btw. Yesterday the TOUR A cost us Php 700 each plus Php 200 government fee. TOUR C cost us Php 900, no more government fee because it's valid for 10 days. These are whole day tours and include lunch. I'd say it's all worth it.

Here are some of the amazing photos per island taken during our second island hopping.

STAR BEACH

unbelievable crystal clear water

SECRET BEACH

It's called Secret Beach because in order to go inside, you have to go through a small opening of the limestone cliff.
Really scary to go inside especially if the waves the strong.

perfect beach

TALISAY BEACH

This is our lunch. Perfect for the tour.

MATINLOC SHRINE

view taken at the top of Matinloc Shrine.

picture perfect

HIDDEN BEACH

It's called Hidden Beach because it's hidden (no-brainer) by limestone cliffs

HELICOPTER BEACH

This is called the Helicopter Island because it looks like a helicopter.

Beach in Helicopter Island

Sunbathing even if my skin have been burned yesterday.

Picturesque

EL NIDO, PALAWAN ISLAND-HOPPING 1

2012-02-20T21:52:00.000+08:00

Palawan is indeed a paradise. El Nido (one of the municipalities of Palawan) has the best beach islands I've ever seen in my entire life. Marvin and I had our island-hopping tour. This is our second day in El Nido and fifth day of our Palawan adventure. We visited 5 beautiful islands from 9 AM until 4 PM today. We were really amazed by the beauty of El Nido. I can't believe how crystal clear the water is, how beautiful the lagoons are and how pristine the beaches are. It was a jaw-dropping experience. And one of the best things we've done here in Palawan.

Here are the photos per island taken during our island hopping.

SMALL LAGOON

SECRET LAGOON

SHIMIZU BEACH

BIG LAGOON

7 COMMANDO BEACH

Puerto Princesa City, Palawan (Part 3)

2012-02-19T18:56:00.000+08:00

I never expected that the this day was going to be the highlight of our trip. Yes we were able to visit the Underground River earlier than our Visitor's Entry Permit (VEP) schedule. How? Later I'll explain.

First, we were in Sabang because we sort of got bored roaming around the city using the motorcycle we rented. Since we were excited to see the beaches of Palawan, we decided to brave through the 2 hour drive from the city to Sabang to see beaches and waterfalls.

In the morning of day 3, Marvin went to Protected Area Management Board Office just nearby to see if there are any cancellations. It is the sub-office, I think the one in the Puerto Princesa City (where we got our VEP) is the main office. It is this sub-office which finalizes the lists of persons who will tour the underground river.

How did we know about it? Because when we talked to a local the night before, he told us to see if we could tour the UR the next day. Sometimes there are people who were given a VEP but will not push through the UR tour for whatever unknown reason. He was kind enough to give us that kind of information. I really noticed that Palawan locals are very nice to tourists (locals and foreign). Maybe he thought that since we were already in Sabang, then might as well try to see if we could go visit UR rather than wait until our schedule and comeback again. How nice of him.

To our surprise there really was a cancellation and we were in! We were given the the 2pm schedule to tour UR. We were so glad then.

We hurriedly had our breakfast then off to waterfalls before touring the UR in the afternoon.

Below are some of the photos during our trip to the waterfalls.

on our way to the waterfalls

the 30-minute walk was worth it

the water was cold

And now for my much anticipated tour - UNDERGROUND RIVER.

I'll let the picture do the talking for now. But I will make a separate post soon for Underground River alone.

Note: The pictures did not do justice to the beauty of the place. The real thing is much much bizarre, amazing and beautiful.