wandergirl

Bangkok on my Mind

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Tue, 07 May 2013 16:15:00 +0000

Thailand and I, it was a slow and subtle attraction. I enjoyed you, we did a little dance, I explored your crannies, and your malls, and your floating market, ate your streetfood and then had the vilest digestive reaction and the worst stomach ache ever. Guess my stomach's more sensitive than I thought!

THE CULPRIT - i think. (This is a wanton noodle soup found in Platinum mall. I think the water was dirrrty)

banana pancake - one of the greatest gustatory delights of Bangkok

sandbagging, yeah.

It was short and sweet, but I appreciate you being the gateway to my Indochine backpacking adventure. That's it.

Oh, I loved Khao San. It was a wasteland.

When I reached the hotel at 4 in the morning from the airport, the first thing I saw was a little Caucasian girl eating up the face of a Black rasta man. And I was like whoah. I was amazed by how free flowing everything is, including having to small talk a Black man who is about a shade darker than Don Cheadle and told me I had a pretty face and would I want to have a drink at one of the sidewalk bars in Khao San. Sorry man, I am no racist but, it was just that I cannot outline your face.

And why were there so many black men in Thailand at that time? I don't know. Memories, memories.

What else? Walked around the place where there were a looot of temples, golden ones, shimmering ones. Had to fight the space with old tourists from cruiseship tours who hurl Italian staccatoed cursewords.

We will meet again Thailand, probably Chang Mai and Pai. And I hope to shop til I drop again in Bangkok preferably in Chatuchak which I wasn't able to meet because it was submerged in the flood at that time. Yes this was around October of 2011. Google it.

Cebu City photo walk

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 16:22:00 +0000

Cebuano version of Quiapo Church

i got chills when i got here. i don't know. history buff. that's me.

prayer woman performed Sinulog or prayer performed as a dance.

oldest street in the Philippines-- research it.

Casa Gorordo

TIPS: Cebu City is very accessible. You can walk to one place of interest to the next, but you can also take a cab. There are a lot of cabs just like in Manila. For example the Basilica is only walking distance to the Magellan's Cross and Fort San Pedro. You can hire a cab to take you to Casa Gorordo, public market, Daang Colon and other interesting places all over the city. Have a prayer woman perform the Sinulog, it's a treat to watch them and pray for your health and safety.

The Perfect Cone and the Perfect Storm

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 15:36:00 +0000

It was the stormiest night (two stormy nights to be exact) I have ever experienced while away from home.Apart from Pedring, there was this rally by the blasted employees from Philippine Airlines that left me stranded. But the rain, yes, it was damn strong.

Traveling through air to return home at the time was the scariest thing. The turbulence was endless. It is impossible to believe that the day I landed on this Southern region the sun was shining like fire on my hand. Daragang Mayon even made an appearance.
Bicolano superstition has it that Mt. Mayon doesn't make an appearance to people who do not deserve her presence. That most of the time, travelers get to gawk at endless clouds and not so much of an outline of the perfect cone. But that day I went there was priceless. I got to see her in her full glory.

The trip was a blur to me now, as I try to recall it. But two things struck me the most - The Mayon volcano was indeed beautiful. I was star struck. At that time I felt really really lucky to have the opportunity to visit the place. I made a wish. Yeah, I'm starting my own supertitions about seeing places that I've been wanting to see since I was in Gradeschool (Banawe Rice terraces, you're up next).

Second, the food! (this warrants an entire entry, maybe next time). Coconut milk is the king. I'm sure a lot has been said about the food in Bicol, but before you leave, try the sili ice cream at 1st Colonial Grill.

So that's it. The Mayon volcano is only a mere sidestop when traveling to Bicol region, what with Caramoan islands and Naga nearby. But I only dedicated my trip to the capital of Legazpi in Albay alone.Next time I write about Bicol I'll make sure to talk more about Caramoan Islands, Naga and CWC plus blogger must-writes like how to get there and where to stay than this endless blabber about perfect cones and ice creams.
Needless to say, Bicol, I'm not done with you yet!

A glimpse of "Paradise" in Cebu

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Sun, 27 May 2012 03:05:00 +0000

As a way of celebrating the proverbial "End of Summer", I shall write a post about my favorite city in the Visayas - Cebu!
Last year I had the privilege of visiting Cebu for the second time. The first travel to Cebu wasn't that memorable because we literally just passed by the city on the way to Bantayan Island. We were rushing! Backpacking at its finest. But the second time in Cebu was an entirely different story. The trip is more on the luxurious side.
Armed with a book and money minus the laptop and minus work obligations this is by far my purest vacation. Meaning no stress, no hassles, doing absolutely nothing! I had the entire weekend !
So what did I do? I spent it wisely by lounging around "paradise" the first day and doing a DIY city tour the next day.
The paradise I'm talking about is none other than Shang-rila Mactan!

stately exteriors. real classy

I went straight from my 8:00 am PAL flight to the little kiosk inside Mactan International Airport where I waited for the coaster to arrive that shall take me to Shang-rila Mactan! the ride was pretty short, around 20 minutes.

What welcomed me was a very regal looking and elegant complex. I left my bags at the concierge and went straight to the little boutique where they sell the day trip package.

The daytrip rate was 2,000+ which includes the use of pool, lounge chairs, spa, entire grounds, beach, and other activities. This was glam-packing at its finest! The daytrip package also includes a sumptuous lunch buffet!

The buffet is located at a restaurant called Tides. Class A luncheon baby! All quality gustatory delights are there. I cannot forget how I devoured all those lovely looking cakes and sipped the unlimited cappucinos. Uh-ummm. And for the record, the most melt-in-your-mouth salmon sashimi I've ever had.
I also had a golden time basking under the sun and by the beach. Definitely one for the books. One of the best luxurious experiences I've had!

I can easily rough it if I want to but sometimes a girl has got to feel luxurious. And I got it all and more. Will definitely be back.

DIY Cebu city tour on my next post!

I went to Boracay and all I did was eat Pesto Omelet

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Mon, 21 May 2012 20:47:00 +0000

So I finally met Boracay September of last year and it was overwhelming.

Overwhelmingly beautiful. And unbelievably accessible (if you land in Caticlan). I've been to marvelous beaches (the country has a lot of that) and yes they are oh so beautiful. But most of the places are hard to get to (Bantayan, Pagudpud, Siquijor, Guimaras) and probably the other accessible beach I've been to that I can think of is Bohol. Yes, traveling is about the journey and not the destination so it's all good with me.
But as I walk barefoot in the Boracay sand, feeling the legendary powdery sugary texture of it, all I have to say to Boracay is, "Where have you been hiding all my life?".

Of course Boracay is hardly a secret treasure. In fact it has been overexposed that a lot of adventurers who are worth their dime shy away from it (ehem), because it is such a cliche.
But cliches are used over and over again because there must be something good about them. A cliche that is tasteful is called a classic. And yes the beauty of Boracay is classic.

Being in Boracay is like being in the metro with a backdrop of a beautiful beach. It feels like I am very near the city. In fact the place is so cosmopolitan, I can imagine hailing a taxicab to take me back to my rented apartment. And yes, there is a Starbucks! Everything that I needed is here! And a beautiful perfect beach at that. Who am I to complain?

For people who want to feel isolated and yes pardon me for saying "one with nature", sadly you won't get it here. Maybe you can get it from the other coves near White Beach.

It's sad that I barely spent two and a half days. Most of the time I was cooped up in my room, doing hardcore writing. I almost did not push through with the trip because of the impending deadline but what the heck. Also I am meeting some friends there so I might as well go.

I wasn't able to watch the famous sunset, or dip my toes in the waters. I wasn't able to party at night, or to island hop and do all those beach activities. I did not even get to try the famous shake.

but i did have a photo op at the Willy's Rock aka the telltale Boracay rock

I went to Boracay and all I did was eat Pesto Omelet from Real Coffee.And it was good! You should try it.

So I am Boracay virgin no more. It is overwhelming and also underwhelming just like any other first times. But there will be more to come. It ain't no one night stand baby. And when I come back I will make love to it like the first time on the second time.

Siquijor, Dumaguete and Lake Balinsasayao

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 00:38:00 +0000

It’s been months since my last post! And I apologize to my three readers that I took so much time posting the continuation of my Siquijor sojourn that I did in September!

I’ve been busy lately writing this TV show called Wako Wako. It’s a fluffy, feel good, kid-friendly fantaserye which airs in ABS-CBN daily 5:45 pm before TV Patrol.

So before the next deadline hits, let me recount my amazing Siquijor-Negros Oriental adventure that I cannot wait to share with you in full blast soon!

Cambugahay Falls

Black Virgin Mary

SIQUIJOR

Siquijor. I went here September of 2011. A truly magical place. I suggest you come visit this province and spend about three days or more. You’ll enjoy every minute as the place feels so faraway. The isolation transcends. It makes you feel one with nature. I went here alone (coming from Dumaguete) and indeed found the peace, the reflection, the alone time and the self-awareness I am looking for. The place is teeming with natural wonders! From beautiful beaches (I suggest Villa Marmarine resort) and waterfalls ! Everywhere you look, you’ll find God’s work of art. Reserve an entire day for the island tour. And no it’s not a tour inside a jeepney or a freaking van. Get out there hire a habal habal, slop on sunblock, wear your sunnies and pump up the volume of your Ipod and rip the coastline of Siquijor. That’s what I did! Turquiose water everywhere! I enjoyed riding the habal habal to the point that stopping feels like a hassle.The stops were interesting though. Maria Church (where you can find the Black Virgin Mary). Lazi convent and others. I also saw and swam in a waterfalls for the very first time! And the waterfalls is a delectable shade of soft teal. Perfect!
Now if you want to search and discover the sorcery and witchcraft which Siquijor is known for, you can do that (some resorts even have packages that will give you a guided tour) but if you don’t, you won’t actually feel that the province is known for sorcery. Magic maybe because being in the island is purely mystical.

DUMAGUETE

I enjoyed Dumaguete because of the youthful charm of the place. The city is accessible by easyrides or tricycle which cost only around 7 pesos each. What I liked about Dumaguete is the clean and relaxing boulevard! I also loved the artsy cafes and restaurants. I celebrated my Epicurean leanings and sampled the treats in Sans Rival cafe (yummy Silvanas!), Cafe Antonio, Lab-as . I stayed in Honeycomb Tourist Inn and it was glorious. I felt like I was a rich retired businessman who is on eternal vacation. Haha. I could do this forever.

LAKE BALINSASAYAO

While in Dumaguete, I decided to do a DIY daytrip to Lake Balinsasayao. I rode an easyride, then was dropped off at the terminal. I boarded the bus going to San Juan and asked to be dropped off by the highway where there are habal habals waiting for commuters. The fare is 200 one way. Steep huh! Because the road going to Lake Balinsasayao was indeed steep! But I looooved the trip going there. It was bumpy yes, but I didn’t have a single care. I just felt my arms spread wide open! With the cool air I felt like flying. We were literally inside a forest. And then the road clears, leading us to a cliff! It was quite an exhilarating experience. An adventure which doesn’t feel forced. There must be this little nature lover in me because I enjoyed this a lot. I lounged around the lake and found the calm that would satiate me til my next travel.

Up next: Boracay Virgin No More!

Spellbound in Siquijor

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:43:00 +0000

I conjured or even imagined many excuses to delay writing this post. Workload, laziness, more travel, root canal. etc. etc. Why? Because I don't know exactly how to begin. Looking from the outside, the trip that I made was somebody else's nightmare. But for me, it was a dream come true.

PAL flight from Manila to Dumaguete

Before stepping on the pristine, beautiful and enchanting Siquijor shores, I had no idea what is in store for me. See, I've only just dreamt about going to Dumaguete and nearby towns in Negros Oriental. San Juan, Valencia and Dumaguete are my main purpose on this trip. And maybe Apo Island. Siquijor was just a loosely researched plan. All depending on my mood. But why oh why, did I find myself alone in a nipa hut right smack in Siquijor town in Siquijor province? Listening to strange noises rustling through the walls of my rickety abode for the night?

Simple.
I was spellbound.

Like a helpless victim with dazed eyes hypnotized by witchcraft and sorcery I found myself in the waiting area of the pier at the end of the Boulevard, waiting to board the vessel for which I shall spend the loooongest 45 minutes of my life. It was the choppiest ferry boat I have ever experienced. First fifteen minutes, I was having an internal battle with myself, and I was actually calculating if turning back is still an option.

After that, everything went by really smoothly. Like it was in a dream. And what welcomed me was this.

If it isn't spellbinding, I don't know what is.

The first thing I see in Siquijor and I've fallen in love with it already.

Siquijor Island Tour on my next post.

Seven Destinations, Seven Weekends, One Whirlwind Local Travel Adventure

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 13:57:00 +0000

I am one of those people who wish to travel in foreign and local destinations and stay there for a week, a month or even a year. Forget all the trappings of work, and just set off on an adventure while still doing what I love to do - to write. I long for long-term travel. And who doesn't? That feeling of freedom and abandon. That spontaneity. That opportunity to live the life of my dreams. Ah. A girl can dream.

But because I need money to fund my escapes, and because I looove my job and I don't want to lose it by resigning or being fired, I have to make a compromise. Because life is about compromises. We can't have it all. Or can we?

So to at least satisfy my yearning to travel locally, I availed of this airline's promo which promised that I can have unlimited travel for ten grand. Impulsive me went for it! But there was a catch, heck, there is always a catch - you can only avail of the "unlimited" travel within the period of seven weeks. Since I cannot opt for long-term travel, I decided upon the next best thing to enjoy this deal - I decided that I will travel every weekends for the next seven weeks!

The grand plan:

Dumaguete – Siquijor August 28- September 2

Kalibo September 3-5

Cebu September 11-13

Bacolod September 17-19

Legazpi September 24- 26

Davao October 1-3

Palawan October 13- 16

So this was the plan: I'd travel every weekend, even for as short as three days for seven weeks. I told myself, I will complete the itinerary. Short vacations are still vacations. Weekend travels may be short, but it's enough to feel the vibe of the destination, to sample the local food, to connect with new people. I promised myself that I would go, even when I have deadlines. I'd bring my trusty laptop so I can write, inside the hotel, or at a local cafe. There is still something exhilirating about working in a new setting.

Plus it will be a great way to fight lethargy - all tickets are already printed for the next seven weeks. All I need is a map, moolah and myself!

So, was I able to stick with ze plan?

I traveled solo but I think TRAVEL FATIGUE tagged along.

I was only able to travel to four destinations out of the projected seven. Sigh. Three things, flexibility, graciousness and simple gung-ho attitude can make you brush your disappointments like yesterday’s dandruff.

And I still think that the whole experience is one for the books.

Plus, despite not being able to complete my itinerary, I realized that the four-local destination glimpse to our motherland made me state this very important thing that I have learned: Whoever says that The Philippines is inferior to another country when it comes to natural wonders and beauty is a complete fool.

Nothing can beat that one moment - when you are riding the local habal-habal ripping the coastline of a remote island, sleeping alone in a hut in no less than Siquijor Island, riding the ferry boat traversing the choppy Bohol Sea, eating buffet lunch in Mactan Island, writing/working while having breakfast in Real Coffee, or being stranded in Bicol because of typhoon Pedring- whatever you do, that moment can come unexpectedly, when you realize that you are living your dream, you are exploring and you are happily, breathlessly alive.

Up next, the first leg: My solo Dumaguete-Siquijor Adventure!

Life Changing Cambodia

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 12:22:00 +0000

It's not just about the magnificent temples. As much as there is beauty in brilliance and in human genius, religion, spirituality and greatness, there is a painful divinity in every tragedy. Cambodia will always be etched in my heart. Greatness, will equal great disaster. Pain and death, beauty and bravery. Two extremely opposite human experiences happened to this country. Learning about their pain, makes me want to hug every Cambodian, smile and buy bracelets at every Cambodian kid peddling their goods, lucky and happy to be alive.

may I interrupt your regular programming

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 22:20:00 +0000

This post is not travel-related, but allow me to share to you what I have been up to. I am writing for this show for ABS-CBN. (weeknights around 9-ish). The series (Nasaan Ka, Elisa?- is a franchise from Mexico and Chile - countries that I hope to actually travel to someday. (who said this ain't travel-related, haha). Please watch the show, it's a different kind of experience to teleserye fanatics and to those with more, ehem, sophisticated tastes, the show can actually tickle your brain.

Apart from writing, I have been traveling every week, (even bringing deadlines with me). My first jaunt was in Dumaguete and Siquijor during the long weekend, and then the week after was my first time to go to Boracay. Last week was second time in Cebu. It has all been very enriching. I feel so blessed and grateful to get to know these places, and the people I encounter.

Traveling is not an escape, it is a reunion to my once-innocent and excitable, overflowing-with-passion self. And yes, I will be traveling to a lot more places soon! But first, I need to find time to write these posts. I'm so excited to share them all with everyone.

Curiously, on twitter, people have been asking why did Elisa (played by Melissa Ricks) disappear. Did someone kidnap her? Is she dead? I answer jokingly, Elisa went backpacking alone to some obscure town that's why she went missing. Haha.

Nah. That's what I would do.

haven't updated in a while

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:32:00 +0000

but rest assured my travel stories are being recorded in my travel journal. can't wait to share the stories with everyone! Keep travelling! Cheers!

Ode to Vigan

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 09:51:00 +0000

Villa Fernandina- this is what the Spaniards christened this beautiful and quaint city up north, the capital of Ilocos Sur.
An island gifted by a rich Spanish colonial past, magical cobblestone streets, ancestral homes and a UN World Heritage site (Heritage Village) - Vigan.

My father's parents are based in Vigan. He used to have this beautiful street as a playground. But for a person who wants to find a greener pasture, my father in his teens, boarded a bus to Manila, studied in Manila, established his life there, met a Batanguena woman and got married in Manila. And now, my family considers Manila as our home at present.

So yes, this trip was doubly special because it was a "coming home" of my father who hasn't been back to his hometown Vigan after a number of years. And personally, this is my coming home too since I've only been in Vigan thrice since I became an adult.

Enchanted Cobblestone Streets

Stepping into the Vigan Heritage Village is an out of this world experience. The streets, albeit old and ancient, are full of people and alive.

In the morning, the whole street becomes a bazaar showcasing impressive Ilocano handiwork and craftsmanship in every product. Bags, handicrafts, souvenirs, can be seen here. To shoppers, there will be endless rows of goodies to be bought all in reasonable prices.

At night, the beautiful streets in the Heritage Village are illuminated by glowing lights from old-fashioned lamp posts and the soft light transforms the street into an even quainter, lovelier version of itself.

Vigan Foodtripping
For foodie travelers, Vigan is heaven! You can even create an itinerary for food tripping alone! Yes commercial establishments like Mcdonald's and KFC abound, but along the gracefully aging streets you will find a native delicacy that you'd definitely like to sample or even take home!

Vigan Longganisa
A kind of longganisa (sausage) that has a yummy yet strong flavor, savory, sour and garlicky! The perfect breakfast meal would be Vigan longganisa, fried rice, egg and a cup of strong coffee! I brought home packs of these. And yes, this will always remind me of Vigan.

Vigan Bibingka
Compared to the "Simbang Gabi" bibingka (fluffy,soft and mild), Vigan bibingka is more dense, and has a stickier texture. I think I can compare Vigan bibingka to tikoy than with the bibingka we have in the metro.To eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or you can also coat it with raw egg and then fry it.

Vigan Chicacorn
This is a Vigan delicacy - salty and more delectable than the sari-sari store cornik we munch on.

Vigan Empanada
I've discussed this yummy deli with detail in this entry - Food: The Empanada Battle. Yes, the empanadas up north are worth a separate discussion altogether!

Bagnet

This is a delicacy that is sinful to the core!!! This is basically your slab of pork which was boiled and then deep fried to the height of its crispiness.

Apart from these delicacies, there are a number of dishes that originated in Vigan (and the whole of Ilocos) which found their way to national cuisine. There are: Pinakbet, Diningding, and the recent dish that's being appreciated by non natives: Poqui Poqui ( grilled eggplant which is minced and mixed with egg).

Hike it up in Vigan for the weekend and you will surely end up in foodie heaven.

Poqui-Poqui

The Ilocano People
The Ilocano's, are a gentle people. Physically, they are often dark-skinned or moreno, have round deepset eyes and round face.

They are known to be kuripot or really stingy. I myself is a first hand witness to this - my father is the epitome of stinginess! However, this trait is not as bad as others perceive it. Ilocanos believe that there are things in life that really matter apart from being too proud and being wasteful of one's money.

They are not a proud people. They may look simple and down to earth to the point of looking downright impoverished, but you would be surprised to learn that they actually own rolling fields and expanses of wide land.

And the owners themselves till these land themselves. The Ilocanos are real hardworkers. As long as they are capable no matter what age they may be, they will continue to work hard for their family.

In the end, stepping on the cobblestone streets of Vigan, I felt like joining my people.
The feeling that you are a part of an entire group of people who share the same thing that you have is powerful. A homecoming of some sort, and that felt good. And coming from this part of town, (albeit only by virtue of blood relations), makes me proud.

some photos from here, here, here

The Burrrp in Baguio

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 18:46:00 +0000

Went recently to Baguio for work. It has been years since I last went to this mountain town, and yes, big, big changes have been made. There was SM Baguio for one and Session road was not as packed as it used to be. The Chinese population seemed to balloon into big proportions-- they were everywhere. But the cold, yes, the cold, lovely weather is still there to stay. Brrr.

Since the trip was for work, I wasn't able to roam around because I was, well, working. But after being cooped up in the mansion on the cliff working and writing and eating instant food for three days, it was time to nourish ourselves with some of the best eats in the city of Pines.

Oh My Gulay
This is a resto located in the third floor of one of those small buildings in Session Road. I love the atmosphere - it was artsy, shabby chic, forest-y and native all in one. Upon entering, you can feast your eyes with artworks and paintings on the wall.
One caveat for my fellow carnivores -the fare in Oh My Gulay is strictly vegetarian.
Try the puttanesca, the house salad and pear crepe they call Super Sosy.
Of course, it is a violation not to try the yummy brewed coffee! And in my opinion, drinking brewed coffee in Baguio is the life.

House Salad

Puttanesca

Pear Crepe

Cafe by The Ruins
If eating at Oh My Gulay is all about veggies (and healthy!), Cafe by the ruins has a huge selection of specialties.
They say that if Tagaytay has Sonya's Garden and Bohol has Bohol Bee farm, then Baguio has Cafe by The Ruins. Maybe because of the general feel of the place plus, Cafe by the Ruins also has specialty breads and spreads. Their camote bread (75 pesos) is a must try. I also brought home a couple of jars of strawberry preserves (180 pesos).

Camote Bread

Since it was raining at that time, I opted to lunch on a hot soupy dish called Pinikpikan. It is a Cordillera specialty which is known for the manner on how the chicken is prepared. The native chicken is being slightly beaten so that coagulated blood may rise to the surface of the meat. Locally the manner is called "pikpik" hence the name of the dish. Well, it sounds harsh and even barbaric, but for what its worth, it tasted good. So dear poor chicken, your sacrifice and pain was worth it.

Pinikpikan

Here are some of the dishes I and my companions have tried: the Chicken with Bamboo shoots (this was good, the shoots are still crisp and the chicken, tender). I forgot the exact name of the dish though.

Of course there was Adobo Flakes, a Purple soup (Purple Passion was the name, I reckon), some iced tea with fancy presentation, and hot chocolate.

Chicken with Bamboo Shoots

Adobo Flakes

Purple Soup

Iced Tea

Chocolate

Despite the changes, Baguio is still Baguio, where you can revel at the lovely weather and the local eats. Indeed Baguio still has its charms. Can't wait to explore more local happenings and eating places in Baguio when I return.

Eating around Bantayan and Cebu city

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 07:48:00 +0000

How to go to Kota Beach?

During the recent travel to Cebu, I was able to travel to Bantayan Island and Cebu City! And of course the fun in traveling also includes tasting the local food! Where did I satisfy my palate in Bantayan Island and Cebu city? Read below!

Bantayan Island Eats
After explorinng Kota Beach in Bantayan, we headed inland for some refreshments! We rode the ubiquitous pedicabs to go to some happening restos in the town proper that can fill the gaping hole in our stomachs.

Marisquera O Portuguese

Dinner is the first order of the night after the loooong journey. We asked some local pedicab drivers and they pointed this little Portuguese joint. The atmosphere is very relaxed and very local but the food fare is fusion and has influences of international cuisine.

What's more is apart from dining, the resto features good ole karaoke where we sung our hearts out, sober or otherwise.

We got no photos of the food since we were too famished to even think of capturing food in their undisturbed state.

CouCou Restaurant
After much needed splash in the waters, we headed to have brunch in this joint. It was good and affordable! This was where I ate much-wanted seafood fare for an adorable price. Each meal costs around a hundred pesos with drinks.

Cebu City Chows
Upon leaving Bantayan Island, we headed to Cebu City (Ayala) to eat some really really craved for fastfood and coffee.

Coffee Bean Tea Leaf Ayala
Hardly a local eat, but hanging out at a coffeeshop in Cebu is another way to get and feel the local vibe of the city. I was very surprised and amazed at how commercialized and cosmopolitan Cebu City is! Hanging out here feels so much like home. Well-dressed denizens, night owls and yuppies all hanging out, working and drinking their coffee fix is what you can see here.

Larsian
After coffee, and going to Casino Filipino Cebu, we headed to a down and dirty smokey yet absolutely tasty eating expedition at Larsian. Larsian is like a big compound with lots and lots of barbecued meats and seafood. The food is good yet so so cheap! Each barbecues pork costs only 15 pesos. All in all I spent only arounmd 60 pesos including all barbecued meat I can imagine with softdrinks and rice!

puso

Will be posting stories on some yummy Baguio City restos soon!
More travel stories, cheers!

Travel Playlist

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 10:05:00 +0000

Music soothes the soul, and makes everything relaxing especially when I'm traveling. Some travel purists say that listening to music while traveling sometimes takes away the experience of being displaced, but what the heck. I enjoy listening to music but I admit, I can survive a journey without it.
Below are some of my favorite songs, the ones I ended up listening to when I was on a ferry boat to Bantayan Island (mostly Deathcab for Cutie albums) and going up north alone.

photo from here

1. Clocks by Coldplay-
I've associated this song with the image of Peter Pan flying to Never Never land. (This was the soundtrack to that movie, I think). It conjures freedom. So whenever I go island hopping or on a bus somewhere, this song always makes the playlist!

2. Moviescript Ending by Deathcab for Cutie -
Virgin Suicides is one of my favorite movies and this is included in the OST. Loved Deathcab since 2004! Imagine your self on a boat and a camera craning towards you and the open seas, and this song playing in your ears...bliss.

3. Cinema Paradiso OST by Ennio Morricone
Cinema Paradiso is one of my favorite films. This is also my working playlist whenever I'm writing. It stimulates my all my senses!

4. Maps by Yeah Yeah Yeah's
This is one of my favorite songs. There are also quite a few memories conjured when I play this. Gotta include this in the playlist!

5. Love song by The Cure
Perfect for laidback and carefree road trips! If you want you can include all songs by The Cure, guaranteed upbeat, travel music.

6. There is a light that never goes out by The Smiths
"To die by your side is such a heavenly way to die". This is also my walking soundtrack--I remember walking around Iloilo with this song.

7. Nemo by Nightwish
IPerfect when you just want to drown in the music and the soprano voice of Tarja Turunen (the replacement vocalist is bleh)

8. Crash Into me by Dave Matthews Band
- Such a dreamy song. Loved this song for the longest time! Calming, and yes perfect for emo-trips.

9. The Dog Days are Over by Florence and the Machine
- recent favorite! Inspirational. I listen to this when I hop on the treadmill too!

10. Hummingbird Heartbeat by Katy Perry
This song is so much fun! I have Katy Perry album in my Itouch and this is my most favorite song of hers. So upbeat and cheery!

What is your travel playlist?
More Cebu entries up next!

The Journey to Bantayan

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 03:26:00 +0000

1 hour taxi ride from Sct Borromeo to Terminal 3

1 hour waiting at Terminal 3 before boarding

1 and a half hour plane ride to Cebu from Manila

30 minutes taxi ride from Mactan Airport to North Terminal (near SM Cebu)

Two hours break: Late lunch in SM Cebu, bought tickets for the Ferry Ride.

4 hours Bus Ride from North Cebu Terminal to Hagnaya Port

2 hours ferry ride from Hagnaya Port to Bantayan Island.

10 minutes shuttle ride from Sta Fe wharf to Kota Beach

…All sums up to priceless memories in Paradise.

They say that the journey matters more than the destination. But in this case, both the journey and the destination are worth every single penny, time and effort!

This journey marks my first time in the island of Cebu. My stay in the city was short and sweet because I was headed to a paradise that lies up north…Bantayan Island.

I stayed in Kota Beach, where there is a natural pool separated by a magical sand bar.

It was a magnificent beachfront view. Natural and if I try to bend the truth, virgin.

There were endless aquamarine waters. White sand.

While the beach is not remote, my general take on the place, is as if, I was all alone in the island. Peaceful. Not too much noise, not too quiet either.

Not too touristy, not too remote.

Maybe because of the lack of too much beach activities like kayaking, surfing, or sailing? That the allure of the place relies on the calm of the sea, the sand and the traveler. You're not forced to do something, because doing something takes you away from all the magic.
Maybe because I’ve seen a few kids who haul their boats and nets for a quick fishing expedition early in the day?

Bantayan is not yet a party island, and it doesn’t quite aspire to. It is a beach that can be enjoyed to socialize and to vegetate in solitude or with your friends.

Priceless.

How to get there:

1. Board a plane from Terminal 3 going to Cebu City if you are coming from Manila.
2. Upon reaching Mactan Airport, you can now take the white taxis (just climb a short flight of stairs and you'll see them). Yellow taxis with more expensive meters are what you will see first though.
3. Go to North Terminal - it's near SM Cebu. The fare from the airport to North Terminal will cost about 100 plus pesos. You will pass by Mandaue city, Lapu lapu city and others before you get to Cebu city.
4. Once you are in the North Terminal, you can board a Ceres bus going to Hagnaya Port. There are choices between air conditioned and non a/c buses. In my case, we took the air con bus. Fare costs about 150 plus. The journey is about three and a half to four hours. Along the way you will pass by various ports goint to Malapascua and Camotes Islands.
5. After hours of bus ride, you will are now in Hagnaya Port. The ferry boat is operated by Island Shipping corp. We took the special (air con) trip that costs around 170 pesos.
6. After about one and a half to two hours, you will now reach the port of Sta Fe in Bantayan Island. Your beach resort will probably have a shuttle that will take you to your resort. I stayed in Kota beach and the resort has a shuttle stationed near the port. If you do not have any accomodation yet, there are trisikad, habal -habal that can take you to various resorts. Travel time is only about 5-10 minutes.

Sunshine in a bowl

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 18:51:00 +0000

Iloilo is one of those places I never thought I will ever explore on my own. As I was uncovering little bits and pieces about Iloilo during my pre-travel research, I envisioned myself doing two things –to pray at the beautiful churches including the UNESCO World Heritage Church Miag-Ao Church, and to eat!

Batchoy is a dish characterized by a marvelous concoction of hot broth, noodles and slices of meat, liver and crushed pork cracklings originated in La Paz, Iloilo. Paired with pandesal or puto, batchoy is sunshine in a bowl during cold, rainy days.

The noodle soup dish is said to have been originated in the late 1930’s by Federico Guillergan. And in his namesake, he established Deco’s Batchoy. Deco's is now a popular batchoy food chain all over the country and as of today, there is one branch in Metro Manila, found in Makati.

Apart from Deco's, there were also other accounts about a certain Teodorico Lapura who, popularized batchoy via his namesake restaurant, Ted’s Old Timer La Paz Batchoy which was established in 1940’s. Ted's has a lot of branches in the Metro - the one near my area is found in Cubao.

When I was in Iloilo, I thought, what better way to end the competition between Ted's and Deco's than to try them both for myself?

So, first stop, Deco’s in Robinson’s Iloilo.

I was a bit letdown because I thought that Deco's might have scrimped my toppings BUT, I was wrong. The moment the broth touched my lips I knew I was in heaven. The broth has a full flavour, but the taste is clear, distinct, nuanced yet very simple.

Second stop, Ted’s Old Timer in Diversion Road

Unlike my Deco's bowl, the one I had at Ted's Oldtimer in Diversion road is an all out production. A bowl complete with egg and many little bits of meat all over the place. One word ... Yum!

I guess it is an endless battle to choose between the two popular batchoy restaurants and I won’t even attempt. Although, I am particularly haunted by Deco’s smooth, really flavourful broth, especially on a cold bed weather. Not even a trip to Ted’s Oldtimer in Alimall Cubao satisfied my craving for batchoy during one of those recent and frequent Quezon city rains.

Today, the Ilonggo specialty is a dish not just native in Iloilo, but is now a popular soup well-loved by the entire country. It's one of those dishes that has crossed boundaries. Even local instant noodles have a variety after the bubbling broth. I am not an Ilongo native, but ever since I have tried Batchoy in Iloilo, I am now an instant fan.

Batchoy can surely pump anyone up on a lethargic rainy day. And despite its lethal combination of pork, cracklings, beef, chicken and liver, I know I will always crave for this happy soup. It’s both life and death in a bowl and I would savor every spoonful.

This is my entry to the Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival for July 2011 with the theme: "Awesome Food Experiences While Traveling in the Philippines" hosted by Anton Diaz .

Island Hopping in Bohol

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 06:22:00 +0000

In Bohol, you can enjoy sightseeing and coming face to face with the country’s celebrated Tarsiers and Chocolate Hills, vegetate in the beaches of Panglao Island, eat organic in Bohol Bee Farm and watch dolphins frolic in their natural habitat!

I did that and more, I even rode at the back of a motorcycle for the first time!

But just when I am becoming satiated with Bohol’s many wonders, I come face to face with its islands!

BALICASAG ISLAND

This is considered to be a mecca of diving and snorkelling but since we are running out of time, I wasn’t able to snorkel! Too bad. I walked in the area for a bit, and soon I hopped on the boat to the Virgin island!

VIRGIN ISLAND

For those who are saying that Bohol is too touristy, too crowded, better head to Virgin Island to know that there are beautiful remote and private spots in Bohol that you can enjoy! When I was there, I can only look at utter amazement at the beautiful expanse of blue sea. The gradient of turquoise to blue is amazing. I swear I can stare at the seas for a whole day. Beautiful!

Virgin Island is an island with a sandbar. You can walk into the very thin sandbar leading to an islet with fine white sand surrounding it. It was amazing! It's like being transported.
While I was there, I saw ladies selling fresh coconut and sea urchins.

I feel like I was transported to somewhere else!!! Sigh! I will come back to this place again, I promise!

My Bantayan Island Blog entries up next!!!

A Tale from a Half-Blooded Batanguena Coffee Addict

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Tue, 10 May 2011 04:44:00 +0000

Ala eh!

This is the telling catchphrase everyone has associated with any Batangueno. I am a half-blooded Batanguena since my mother is hailed from such a rambunctious, full-blooded people of this province south of Luzon, where a simple “ungkutan”(get together) may result to such a boisterous shouting match, and the fun part is, no one is actually arguing.

Passionate may be the word that I can describe these Batanguenos. They are proud, gallant, arrogant and can come off strong.

I was born in Manila, but every summer vacation since I was a baby, Batangas has always been the place where I spend my vacation. Batangas is very near from Manila, and can easily be a destination for a quick vacation. Batangas also has glorious beaches found in the Nasugbu part or in San Juan. When you want to go diving, you can shack it up in Anilao. But when I was a child, I’ve gone beaching in Calaca where the waters are clean and crisp, and the sand is pure gray.

When I was not beaching, I usually found myself in the rural sitio in Balete, Batangas City where my mother grew up. I remember how the sitio used to look like back when I was ten. Walking up the dirt road, my relatives’ houses will welcome you in the sitio starting with my Kakang Ayo’s house in the “kahanggan” (end part ). And a few walks further, in the middle, in the more forested part was where my Lolo's (the father of my mother) bungalow, can be found.

Along with the Indian mangoes, camias trees and kakawates, rows and rows of coffee trees lined up my Lolo’s backyard. I often tinkered with the ripe ones and helped my titas with roasting. But what I loved best is when the coffee trees blossom. The sweet smell wafted in the air. And as a kid I pretended that these flowers were sampaguitas. I strung them into a lei and I pretended like I was a princess.

I drank Batangueno coffee for the first time when I was about ten years old because of my Lolo who introduced me to it. And yes, it was my lolo’s fault that I don’t think I can ever live without coffee, now that I’m a full-pledged adult. I especially liked kapeng barako. My lolo had a habit of pouring the black gritty goodness on fluffy white rice. And that was my comfort food back then. Ahh. Simple joys.

this is what our coffee farm looked like years ago. I used to watch my Lolas dry the beans in the sun then afterwards they roast them. (this is a still from a local teleserye I wrote for- coincidentally, the main protagonist worked as a coffee picker when she was a child)

Being the first granddaughter and the first apo technically, you can expect how my grandfather treated me – with fierce protection, with pride and sometimes with such a controlling fist. But with my Lolo, I’ve always felt invincible. I grew up a brat, with a sense of entitlement because I knew that no matter what I did, I have an automatic ally in him, no questions asked.

It has been a long time now that my Lolo is not with us. And yes, changes have been made in the rural barrio where I used to spend summers. I’ve seen the transformation in front of my eyes year after year - some trees made way for more houses as my Titas and Titos get married and build homes for their families. Old houses were renovated. Farms were turned into manicured gardens, The coffee trees diminished in number, and some were replaced with Digitel telephone wires.

my brother and a younger cousin

Whenever I visit other seaside areas of Batangas for a trip with friends I always find the Batangueno accent comforting. Even with the shouting tone. (They don’t mean to sound so loud, they are, as I said, passionate).And whenever I go back to my barrio I always request for freshly ground Batangas coffee and smile.

With its strong, offensive yet full-bodied and strangely comforting effect on me, I am always reminded of my Lolo.

some photos sourced from here and here

This is my entry for the 7th Blog Carnival of Pinoy Travel Bloggers with a theme of "Hometown" This month's blog carnival is hosted by fellow PTB Member Mhe-anne L. Ojeda . For more of the previous entries click here.

My Extraordinary Experience of a Typical Day for Dolphin Watching

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Sun, 08 May 2011 18:39:00 +0000

The next day, some of my friends already left for Manila and I and a friend had one full day ahead of us in Dumaluan beach before the afternoon flight back.

So what’s left to do apart from swimming and beach bumming? Dolphin watching of course! Haha. Yeah, that’s a typical activity in Bohol – and one that you shouldn’t miss! Dolphin watching is included in the half day island-hopping package including a tour in Balicasag Island and Virgin Island (more on these later).

My friend and I woke up at 4:30 am hurriedly ate breakfast and rode the boat and by 5:30 am we’re off to sea. See I have always been fascinated with island-hopping, or err...sailing ever since I rode my first outrigger boat in Marinduque. Going to a beach destination would probably incomplete for me now without riding a boat. It’s kind of boring for some, but I love riding boats, feeling the sea breeze on my face and docking into an island or islet.

So minutes later and we’re still in the middle of the open sea. I thought we were going to an island but I was surprised our boatman Kuya Toto lingered there. I noticed a lot of boats around and realized...ohhh everyone is here to watch the dolphins in their natural habitat!

Apart from dolphin watching itself, I am in awe seeing these many boats amidst the sunrise. What a glorious experience!

But the 10 million dollar question is: Was I able to see any dolphin? Sure I did, but it was too far from me. At first. Probably because they are scared of the many boats with humans who just want to have a glimpse of them.

And then...whoooop!!! there they go again!

I am one happy girl!

But...I am actually undecided about this. Some people say that some dolphins do get injured by these boats. But being here, was indeed a blessing that I would love all of you to experience.

And now we’re off to the islands!!!

Perfectly Pristine Panglao Paradise aka My Annoying Attempt to Alliterate

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Sat, 07 May 2011 17:13:00 +0000

After the whole day Bohol Countryside tour, our tour guide brought us to Panglao Island where all Bohol’s pristine beaches are.

Our accommodation is in Whites and Greens Resort in Dumaluan Beach. But before that we stopped by Bohol Bee Farm and where I bought spreads and organic bric a brac like crazy that I almost ran out of cash which is a hassle. (Tip: finding ATM in Panglao is difficult as there is only one ATM in the area and that is near Alona Beach, in mainland Bohol ATMS are available in BQ Mall and Island City Mall )

See I only found out about this now, but Bohol has two shorelines - the more popular Alona and the more private Dumaluan. I must admit, prior to the trip I only knew about Alona Beach and Amorita but I am actually thanking my friends for choosing Dumaluan =)

We retreated early coming from a tiring countryside tour (see previous post).

But come morning ,I was amazed with a beautiful view of wide beach with white sand from Whites and Greens beach front. Gorgeous!

Though Whites and Greens is very chill and has beautiful shoreline, we took a daytrip to Bohol Beach Club which is a very short walk from our resort. BBC indeed has the best, cleanest beachfront in Dumaluan Beach. Day trip is 300 a day, consumable for weekdays. But for weekends, it’s priced at 500.

Of course, how could I ever leave Bohol without trying the buffet at Bohol Bee Farm?! (This deserves a solo entry!)

Lunching there is the experience but going there proved to be as excitng! See in Bohol, especially in Panglao, public transportation is rare if not nonexistent. So you actually have to ask your resort to book you a private car to take you to one place to the next. But since I only wanted to have lunch with a friend, we rode the habal habal which is waaaay cheaper! And yes I am recounting this experience because it was my first time to ride a true blue habal habal or motorbike. And I enjoyed it!!! =)

Floral Salad is included in the best buffet ever, priced at only 510 pesos!

And the Bohol experience is far from over as the next day I explored Panglao's islands! Bohol is indeed beyond fabulous!

Bohol! (part 1)

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Wed, 04 May 2011 16:55:00 +0000

Yes nothing can sum up this trip but the name of the beautiful province with an exclamation point. I just want to share with you guys how awesome the trip was and how little I spent. Ahhh. Bohol can easily be the go-to province for a surefire relaxing vacation in the Philippines that won’t break the bank!

I travel alone depending on my mood, but travelling with two of my closest friends and meeting new friends made me feel beyond blessed!

Coming from Cebu port, (we traveled to Bantayan Island prior to traveling to Bohol. Bantayan Island posts coming up next), we took the Supercat to Tagbilaran.

It was a calm hour and a half ferry ride for a little more than 500 pesos. The interiors of Supercat is impressive. Very organized, clean and safe.

Once we got to Tagbilaran, we met Kuya Jerry, our driver slash tour guide. Cool! I have been to trips where I decide the itinerary, where I consult maps just to get to one place to the next, where I had to take a car ferry without manifesto just to reach the place, where I ride the jeep with locals. But sitting with friends in the van to explore Bohol is fun, dynamic and explosive!

Here are some highlights of the trip:

Blood Compact Site

Baclayon Church

Baclayon Church Museum

Tarsier!

Chocolate Hills and Loboc River Cruise and Floating Restaurant

Bilar Man-Made Forest

Hanging Bridge

Maybe I should change my title with Blessed Bohol? Because the province is really blessed. There are things to see in every corner. Everything was orderly, none of the stress of trying to get to one place to the next.

Yes the province knew and breathed tourism like clockwork. And who’s complaining? I sure am not. Sometimes travel is all about chilling, seeing, discovering and just being with your favourite people.

I am so enticed by Bohol that I am planning to treat my parents’ travel here like when we traveled to Ilocandia last year. I’ll be back Bohol and I will bring the whole clan with me, I promise! And I am just recounting my Day 1! Watch out for my Panglao Island post soon!

EDIT:
Of course I hinted about how little I spent but did not include any computations. So anyway here's the computation for my first day in Bohol (Second day and Souvenirs and Plane ticket back to Manila not included =)

Bohol Countryside Tour: First Day Budget

Ferry from Cebu to Tagbilaran: (Supercat) 550

Tour Guide slash Driver 2500 divided by 7 = 360

Loboc Buffet and River Ride = 300

Bohol Bee Farm Ice Cream 50

Whites and Greens Dumaluan Beach 2000/night = 285

divided by 7

Total First Day Expenses = 1545

Thoughts on Solo Travel

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 18:11:00 +0000

Last November, I traveled alone for the very first time. When I let others in on my solo travel, they were shocked, amazed, curious but most of the time, incredulous. I was met with various reactions from “Why didn’t you ask me to go with you?” Or, “May pinagdadaanan ka ba?” or the usual jeer, “Naks, soul searching!”, yes I heard it all.

At that time, traveling alone was a foreign a word to me as say, exploratory laparotomy. But I embarked on it, partly because yes, I was soul searching and yes, “May pinagdadaanan" But it is only recently that I realized that even if I were not undergoing a major event in my life, I have come to love the feeling of setting out on a journey alone.

After my solo travel in Iloilo and Guimaras, what followed were: a solo venture in Tagaytay and a solitary roadtrip up north. And it looks like I won't be stopping anytime soon. I still travel with friends and family because I want to see the world with people I care about, but traveling alone is special in its own way.

So, why did I choose to travel alone? It is just like why dogs lick their balls, it's because they can.

I used to think that traveling alone is selfish. It screams independence in many aspects - emotionally, financially, socially. Traveling alone is also snobbish - “Finally I can to go where ever I want, companions just drag me down!”

Ok I thought, I can be selfish. Sure I want to be independent and to travel anywhere in my own terms. Before my first solo travel I thought, maybe it’s similar to watching a movie alone. The only difference is with travel, is that a person is placed in a testier situation and milieu.

I realized that that comparison is a stretch! If traveling alone meant independence, then being independent comes with a price! First, I had no one to share my expenses with. Second, the pre-travel research is exhausting! It brought out the OC organizer in me! Prior to my first solo travel I was this lazy leisure traveler who wants things laid in front of me.I hated researching (past tense of course, haha). I don’t want to stress myself. Or maybe I am just scared shit of sitting alone as the bus whirrs by. I cannot sit still with a book because I am paranoid something bad might happen. Or I feel I just had to talk to a friend to share my boredom.

But, I discovered that traveling alone leaves this sweet, lasting satisfaction, this certain achievement that I can figure things out for myself.

Traveling alone also taught me to talk to locals. Without judgment. I didn't just talk, I listened. And I discovered first hand, how they perceive their world. Learning becomes a natural thing.

Looking back, I wished I embarked on solo travel early on. And having tried it, I can say that solo travel is everything it is cracked up to be. It can be scary at first because of the expenses, the boredom, the lonesome...

Traveling alone forced me to brave the unknown but moreover, traveling alone made me confront myself. You discover who you are and what you are made of. Traveling alone forces you to face the truth about yourself and about life, and the truth is often hard to accept. But as always, truth always sets you free.

The Pinoy Travel Bloggers group holds a monthly Blog Carnival, wherein participating bloggers write about a singular theme. Mechanics and archives are found in Sir Estan's Langyaw page here. For the month of April, we write about solo travel as hosted by Nina Fuentes of Just Wandering. This month's entries go here.

Food: The Empanada Battle

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 02:13:00 +0000

In Ilocos, there is a strong yet hush hush battle of the best kind of empanada - the orange and thicker crust one from Batac versus the pale yellow and thinner crusted one from Vigan. And last December, I had the opportunity to taste both! Before I give out my verdict...let me describe these two empanadas thoroughly based on my taste.

The Ilocos empanadas are not like the usual empanada we see and buy here in the metro. The chicken empanadas and others here are made of flour/bread like crust which are often baked instead of fried. The filling are a weird yet flavorful combination of papayas, cabbage or mongo sprouts, one whole egg and longganisa. Instead of comparing it to the usual empadanas, I think I could actually compare it to a fried spring roll or lumpia.

Vigan Empanada

Since my first stop was in San Vicente near Vigan, Ilocos Sur, I happened to sample the thinner, paler empanada first from the city center of Vigan. It was my second day exploring the Heritage Village - a name given to the historical Crisologo street and various surrounding streets- a UNESCO world heritage site. Walking around the old street felt magical as my adrenaline and excitement is on an all time high. There are various souvenirs to ogle and buy.

But one thing I am interested in apart from the semi-obligatory ref magnets and keychains is to take home and sample the food of the place. After buying one too many chichacorns and Vigan longanisa, it is time to chill, hang out and sample the empanada.

There is a certain area in the town plaza called the Vigan Empanada center where many different stalls are selling the yellow empanada.The Vigan empanada has a thin crust and is yellow in color. What's inside the crust are shredded cabbage, sliced green papayas, one whole egg and Ilocos longganisa.

It was crisp, hot because it was freshly cooked. You need to douse it with sukang Iloko to be able to get the right melange of tastes right. I,m salivating right now!

Batac Empanada

En route to Pagudpud from Vigan, I made it a point to make a pit stop at Batac to try their version of empanada.

Before I took the roadtrip to Ilocandia, a lot of people have been telling me to actually try this empanada - it's Batac empanada or nothing at all! Imagine how some passionate foodies defend their choice, what more to actual people who hailed from such places. With no intention in fueling the fire...I actually stopped at Batac in to sample these orange wonders with the intention of comparing it to the Vigan empanada I tried days before.

Papa and Mommy

My first impression, it looks a lot like the orange quail eggs sold back in Manila. You can see them everywhere. But Batac empanada was colored with natural coloring - atsuete. The dough is also thicker compared to Vigan empanada. What's interesting is that you get to choose between Sukang Iloko or Banana ketchup to go with your empanada. Hmmm.

The filling: instead of shredded cabbage, the Batac empanada uses generous amounts of mongo sprouts or togue, sliced green papaya, one whole egg and longganisa.

The verdict?

Though Vigan empanada is thinner, I found Batac empanada tastier. It's probably because of the dough. My first impression was that Batac empanada would be a letdown but despite the thick crust I can actually taste a whole lot of MSG in it. Haha. Seriously, the serving was actually quite bigger with generous filling.

However, I hated to pair it with ketchup at first but when I did, it tasted quite better.
Vigan empanada is best enjoyed sitting down and dousing the entire thing with Sukang Iloco for a minute before diving in.
Did I actually cast my vote? Haha. For me Batac empanada is tastier. Of course my father from Vigan would say otherwise! haha. But it is better to try comparing the two when you get to Ilocandia!

To those who already did, which is the best empanada in all of Ilocandia for you?

*******
some photos sourced from here, here, and here

Bangui Bay

noreply@blogger.com (bridge) — Sat, 02 Apr 2011 02:24:00 +0000

This is not about the One Epic Trip I posted prior, but I just want to take a minute and reminisce about Bangui Bay in Ilocos Norte.

I was with family when I went here. We took a right from the main road and into the dirt. The sky was blue and limitless. It was bright and the rays were glaring to our direction.

The car inched towards the bay. But it wasn't until a few more prodding to the driver, my father when we finally reached these huge ass big windmills. I got out of the car and immediately ran near it. Faster and faster until I'm at the bottom of one of the twenty windmills. I looked up and used my hands as a shade. I couldn't see what's on top. These machines. They are so big I feel like it'll move and crush me.

How many moments like this in my life when I feel so small vis a vis a natural or man-made mammoth. I have lost count. But in these moments when you feel that you are so small... You sometime feel a tiny sense of courage to face it, your monster. Your fear. Of getting crushed and trampled upon.

And it's not just the windmills, it was the whole thing the whole scenario...the whole experience of being dwarfed by the bigness of the world.

These huge powerful waves are so strong and unbending, that if you dare come near, these waves will swallow you whole.

If the wind can swallow me whole, I probably would've let it. It was like a lure, calling me to to mesh with its core.

Excuse me if I went all literary on you.End of flashback and cut to the present time.

Inside my rented pad near my workplace I sometimes cry to avoid these extreme sensations. I sometimes fear to be swallowed whole by the big waves, the unstoppable wind. The dizzying fast spinning of the windmills. They seem to never stop. They gain more power as they spin.

But even as I let it conquer me, leaving me spinning, feeling dizzy. Haunted by the wind, taunted by the waves. I know in my heart that it is I who have emerged.

************
Bangui Bay is where the famous Bangui windmills are found. From Manila, you can take the bus going up to Laoag and Cagayan route going to Burgos. Upon arriving in Burgos, watch out for the signage which indicate where Bangui windmills can be found and seen upclose. However traversing the route to Burgos, you can already see the huge windmills from afar.
What distinguishes Bangui windmills is that this is actually the first power-generating windmill in Southeast asia.
Wind turbines are facing the South China sea where the powerful wind triggers the turbines to spin and then generate power.