tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22690202247815349692024-02-22T17:47:38.504+08:00Life on the Happy Lane!Travel. Laugh. Contemplate. Write. Eat. Drink. Pray. Be Happy.Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-40372505636021550022012-07-16T03:12:00.000+08:002012-09-09T14:05:25.016+08:00Finding Peace and Beauty in Mount Isarog: The Stone House Garden Resort Day Out<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5zYMZk3gxDA_wA2Ne25DXmUifedab-4aO0HVwt2GJA3Ncgvsu5bMhYgkxyCV3LHctcbw1wJOJHrbhXSztDdjvVt_4CVb5mlPwpPa9JbT_qZHtrv9JtvRpG6C_p4DwfduOtHpWgoD0cc-/s1600/401702_10150927368049817_796934816_9241134_1547267980_n+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5zYMZk3gxDA_wA2Ne25DXmUifedab-4aO0HVwt2GJA3Ncgvsu5bMhYgkxyCV3LHctcbw1wJOJHrbhXSztDdjvVt_4CVb5mlPwpPa9JbT_qZHtrv9JtvRpG6C_p4DwfduOtHpWgoD0cc-/s400/401702_10150927368049817_796934816_9241134_1547267980_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stone House Garden Resort*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;">*The author is in no way connected with the resort. Neither is this post a paid review or advertisement. This is simply about one weekday get-away she recently had with friends.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i>The Plan</i></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">My friend Liz texted that she'd be going home to <b>Bicol </b>for a three-day vacation with Kay, her college roommate in UPLB. Kay came all the way from Bacolod and before proceeding to a Coron trip, decided to go to Bicol first. So it's important to give her a good time =) </span><span style="background-color: white;">Liz asked for some suggestions and we brainstormed for fun destinations that will fit in their schedule.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4zFPhLOAVdX_26nYcMrjQ8XWyrDmpcd0pUiDHSHGKZJ252GYzxybLPiXrEBZz3LudAeESjhZsOwGNsxF2TSOtGfk88XQUvjFXU_gGtN29f3dFgrABV3Xzu-lF16qaJ_uSLu7Q351bgLb7/s1600/398928_10150927354719817_2086456036_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4zFPhLOAVdX_26nYcMrjQ8XWyrDmpcd0pUiDHSHGKZJ252GYzxybLPiXrEBZz3LudAeESjhZsOwGNsxF2TSOtGfk88XQUvjFXU_gGtN29f3dFgrABV3Xzu-lF16qaJ_uSLu7Q351bgLb7/s400/398928_10150927354719817_2086456036_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liz (right), her nephew Phillip, and Kay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Of course, on top of the list is Albay for a view of <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/search/label/mayon%20volcano" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Mount Mayon</span></a><span style="color: blue;">,</span> followed by Camarines Sur Water Sports Complex (CWC), being the nearest and most convenient. The traveling duo also decided to head to Donsol, Sorsogon for a Butanding-watching adventure. All these they intended to visit (and actually did) on the second and third days of their vacay. The location for the first day, however, was the question. We crossed out <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/search/label/caramoan" target="_blank"><span style="color: #073763;">Caramoan</span></a> due to time constraint. Then, I suddenly remembered one place that caught my interest last year: t</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">he </span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Stone House Garden Resort,</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> located at <b>Mount Isarog National Park</b></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Its rain forest location is a charm--but it's the beautiful pictures of its garden, infinity pool and building/structure that got me. I suggested the place to Liz, who immediately said yes. Using my text brigade powers, I also had Von and Joann to come with us for a more fun trip =) </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Trip</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></i></b>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2z3ho2G-28CVcWsTUUO3S-gEI6hgCJYoUxTXMrZi5zSWnfDw3fYEtEXmqU_YmmwoU0Qjs0lNQikA9k1xGsTnVwkBIqMBZIUgCnFa2ZWe7JN204eceYU20lNcezq4BRK5JBAKJ3bx_-ne/s1600/522308_10150927368339817_796934816_9241135_651867151_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2z3ho2G-28CVcWsTUUO3S-gEI6hgCJYoUxTXMrZi5zSWnfDw3fYEtEXmqU_YmmwoU0Qjs0lNQikA9k1xGsTnVwkBIqMBZIUgCnFa2ZWe7JN204eceYU20lNcezq4BRK5JBAKJ3bx_-ne/s400/522308_10150927368339817_796934816_9241135_651867151_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Road Trip Tropa (with Von taking the pic)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Stone House Garden Resort</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> is located several kilometers up </span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mount Isarog</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, the towering mountain with an elevation of ~2000 masl, which protrudes amidst the vast rice field plains of Camarines Sur. Mount Isarog serves as a watershed and biodiversity hot spot. But for adventurers and mountaineers, it is one hiking destination that must be conquered. We, however, opted to just enjoy the garden resort midway the mountain instead of heading all the way to the lush rain forest going to its peak--although this continues to be one idea that challenges me =).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizs61c0VyUHfTJzfEdw8k2TwW0Jwq6yNJjrYRiOdBBU6ZeM3BhtYLjrYTjIF78WQ3QK25khrm13qoLBykiwSNVkgb0W6365Rl-JoS166S9rPZJV17DzIK4HMH3BxGW3gna0r2UhhqLupUF/s1600/542498_10150927373049817_796934816_9241164_171977840_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizs61c0VyUHfTJzfEdw8k2TwW0Jwq6yNJjrYRiOdBBU6ZeM3BhtYLjrYTjIF78WQ3QK25khrm13qoLBykiwSNVkgb0W6365Rl-JoS166S9rPZJV17DzIK4HMH3BxGW3gna0r2UhhqLupUF/s400/542498_10150927373049817_796934816_9241164_171977840_n.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Perched on Mount Isarog</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Come the morning of Liz and Kay's arrival, we agreed to meet at a nearby mall at 10am. Despite having traveled from Manila--</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">by bus, on a 10-hour night trip--</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Liz and Kay arrived early. Liz also brought along her 5-yr old nephew, Phillip, and managed to still look pretty whilst arriving on time. I was late; Jo was late; Von was even more late =) </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnyfKolVDmYrkPrFVX-AhUhX3yzLupRwA5VhU_eJimZaesVx9daGd-nw1N03FOhsBiw4YgzvvAlw7UJC_LZ5HWUbpJzKVtJ-RYZ5_8jooCDjdV9UANNmRiZViIN-9RO8Qv5G3IHJRQAyGO/s1600/303408_10150927366009817_796934816_9241114_1327367047_n+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnyfKolVDmYrkPrFVX-AhUhX3yzLupRwA5VhU_eJimZaesVx9daGd-nw1N03FOhsBiw4YgzvvAlw7UJC_LZ5HWUbpJzKVtJ-RYZ5_8jooCDjdV9UANNmRiZViIN-9RO8Qv5G3IHJRQAyGO/s400/303408_10150927366009817_796934816_9241114_1327367047_n+(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ang mga lakwatseras--and two lakwatseros including the little boy =)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">However, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">we know what it means to Liz to give Kay a decent Bicol trip so we have to pull our acts together haha. Fortunately, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">everything went OK. I cooked a </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">pocho-pocho a.k.a minadaling</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> pasta; Jo took care of the rice and ice, and Liz the drinks and roasted chicken. Talk about spontaneous but coordinated efforts! Von, on the other hand, was our official driver and baggage porter at the same time hehe. The last-minute preparations took around an hour so our official trip actually started past 11AM. Nevertheless, the drive which I estimated will take one hour lasted just 30 minutes, thanks to Von's speed racing tendencies.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzENMYreIggwmjg8c6UndUsd8YU_3_Me8MAF92qDo7vyJ0RrP__ltBf6WhJvT6boZmLFk568L4I7i_ZLP2DilbnCOAumY7tp-PXNoZuddVYHiS7CI1xWbQKz4sGqiA1MU7FwTRpc9PVkUz/s1600/544753_10150927365579817_1569234977_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzENMYreIggwmjg8c6UndUsd8YU_3_Me8MAF92qDo7vyJ0RrP__ltBf6WhJvT6boZmLFk568L4I7i_ZLP2DilbnCOAumY7tp-PXNoZuddVYHiS7CI1xWbQKz4sGqiA1MU7FwTRpc9PVkUz/s400/544753_10150927365579817_1569234977_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yup, we were able to pull it off! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For those who will be travelling via public utility vehicles: from Naga City old <i>centro</i> just ride a jeepney going to <b>Panicuazon </b>(actually, Panicuazon is still one of the <i>barangays</i> of Naga). The jeep terminal is<span style="background-color: white;"> near the Supermarket; tricycle drivers know this. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Be prepared for a full-packed ride because drivers pick up passengers until every inch of space is filled up, including the topload. The road is smooth but slightly winding. Trip may last for one hour or more. I'm not sure how much the fare is, but could range from P20 to P30. Upon reaching the unloading point, just walk several meters (200m or more) toward the direction of the mountain until you reach the slightly </span><i style="background-color: white;">masukal </i><span style="background-color: white;">dirt </span><span style="background-color: white;">path. You will notice that you are indeed heading toward a rain forest because of the trees and wild ferns beside the road. It will be better also to ask around for directions. In our case, we asked the children playing along the road and just gave them coins for reward.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Finally, A Relaxing Afternoon </span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Secluded, peaceful and spacious--</span>Stonehouse Garden Resort looks like a retreat house, only with more entertainment facilities in it. Good for us, there were no other visitors so we had the place to ourselves. Once you get there, just ring the bell (or rather, the hollow pipe) outside the big wooden gate and a caretaker will open the gate and entertain you. Entrance fee costs <b>P500</b>, which includes welcome drinks, use of swimming pool and videoke, and a "guided" stroll around the organic farm. The garden resort also offers overnight stays in their suite and backpacker's rooms.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHtJdCCdCXloLwu4DHuDlJon6c9u3Hwwap-RNq-gJskfT9Eb0Rx-shKdMO9T2tk92f647zmg0NyBwXfuzIj5eh94NewRO1dMmgvU72SOZoBneKZUFXJZhITaGcZVFUkGnyOUF52fbS2CCJ/s1600/538178_10150927355769817_500648498_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHtJdCCdCXloLwu4DHuDlJon6c9u3Hwwap-RNq-gJskfT9Eb0Rx-shKdMO9T2tk92f647zmg0NyBwXfuzIj5eh94NewRO1dMmgvU72SOZoBneKZUFXJZhITaGcZVFUkGnyOUF52fbS2CCJ/s400/538178_10150927355769817_500648498_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The interiors of Stone House Garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBawovWj7wZRRw0zyFXzZxmImroCHcrliAEL7BDuqmzCYPp4zNZXJCaOjbURSJhSRrZs9Ug400YZpF4sHJaTvz6nEj22f0aRBrtXTocWHSrfj-gem_GzOs5JvsIKSw6YVsdjhNBqmRKvMg/s1600/292237_10150927355539817_1039146487_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBawovWj7wZRRw0zyFXzZxmImroCHcrliAEL7BDuqmzCYPp4zNZXJCaOjbURSJhSRrZs9Ug400YZpF4sHJaTvz6nEj22f0aRBrtXTocWHSrfj-gem_GzOs5JvsIKSw6YVsdjhNBqmRKvMg/s400/292237_10150927355539817_1039146487_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's videoke, billiards table, comfy furniture...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One of the reasons why I suggested Stonehouse Garden is that its unique design might appeal to Liz, who is a building and interior design aficionado. A graduate of BS Forestry from UPLB, she is now finishing her second degree of BS Architecture in UP Diliman. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiax3dLYx7DuSvKlB8Pue0eQtZrbmvtLdnd1zSDH78QdrxPy7u44HpR7Pt_joLRAdAiwVhn-ku1hf_nNFeK6gjVr903FWLDxnHZ6L-YGqfuD9YAUFGnMAmV5Buk5pz0Ga6ckXMGx9ZME47i/s1600/536734_10150927355289817_796934816_9241006_81952609_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiax3dLYx7DuSvKlB8Pue0eQtZrbmvtLdnd1zSDH78QdrxPy7u44HpR7Pt_joLRAdAiwVhn-ku1hf_nNFeK6gjVr903FWLDxnHZ6L-YGqfuD9YAUFGnMAmV5Buk5pz0Ga6ckXMGx9ZME47i/s400/536734_10150927355289817_796934816_9241006_81952609_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White pillars, patches of nipa roof and lots of open space apparently mix well</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In addition, Kay could rest there after having been through a one hectic race from La Carlotta to Bacolod to Manila and finally, to Naga. True enough, Kay immediately found her perfect resting spot and snoozed for a while. After the power nap, this traveling dynamo was happy and game for the photo ops, farm tour and swimming =)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMWKUhIx-4ZAQYWc-oakQRhOquZZbimUPcOAalgAsFNN5DbbSNk2Lca3ssOeLFQwR6B-ygrC7C30TW2ZVXuSk-FI3-ZBwIVCDwRYVZwSIhxl-qasnq9UeEvkYe1kkDz9ofeffDsPtgRERv/s1600/543271_10150927359689817_796934816_9241063_2133157463_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMWKUhIx-4ZAQYWc-oakQRhOquZZbimUPcOAalgAsFNN5DbbSNk2Lca3ssOeLFQwR6B-ygrC7C30TW2ZVXuSk-FI3-ZBwIVCDwRYVZwSIhxl-qasnq9UeEvkYe1kkDz9ofeffDsPtgRERv/s400/543271_10150927359689817_796934816_9241063_2133157463_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Power nap!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh31IYMVHa_hWXWoyLuAAfmGJmHmppddKPvJ2eqJQmxhbASJQiSwasifZyYiNggdW3pA6A65PpspYZFvXZCI4yVmKoHZSi_juiivccilTGce32yHenkIEVZu01NrY9MNBJGFrni8iENrPTY/s1600/579840_10150927363754817_796934816_9241089_7730853_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh31IYMVHa_hWXWoyLuAAfmGJmHmppddKPvJ2eqJQmxhbASJQiSwasifZyYiNggdW3pA6A65PpspYZFvXZCI4yVmKoHZSi_juiivccilTGce32yHenkIEVZu01NrY9MNBJGFrni8iENrPTY/s400/579840_10150927363754817_796934816_9241089_7730853_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Kay and Von</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Another thing I love about Stonehouse Garden is the beautiful vista of downtown Camarines Sur on one side, and of Mount Isarog on the other. I was amazed by the sheer size and proximity of the mountain--after all, we are standing right on the mountain itself! The view of Camarines Sur all the way to San Miguel Bay is relaxing too. I don't know, but there is something about the sight of open spaces that I find so calming. It's like looking on eternity itself (huwat??)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqRo9Pn8vvEUxCcGPYHx01K1WwFOrRYIvuHbVJy297uIL_YpHp9nYrglL7hfc8Ysfpo4vnbBxsG0xcf_t2PesUr7EYRSAlchyXcDf2NwhXPTRXlefTlPajAN4VAvqQyeJ554x5IkJeoMV/s1600/182388_10150927354884817_502700773_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqRo9Pn8vvEUxCcGPYHx01K1WwFOrRYIvuHbVJy297uIL_YpHp9nYrglL7hfc8Ysfpo4vnbBxsG0xcf_t2PesUr7EYRSAlchyXcDf2NwhXPTRXlefTlPajAN4VAvqQyeJ554x5IkJeoMV/s400/182388_10150927354884817_502700773_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The place is green all over. There are towering trees, well manicured lawn, beautiful landscape, and a vegetable farm. The air is cool. And luckily, the weather cooperated even if the perpetually grayish clouds constantly threatened us with a downpour. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0awb0KUqBrHAK3jCTwCErShk_oJKw7KRw6qX1CtGbDwnzXwHJyfeD23Wk-5fi8wHxQfMj79TVDzuZbgekFJqvYwY200sTMI9HylFBokqQXKnlWfjahxLh-P9giVY_NKLUEBhCDHAtJKTQ/s1600/33965_10150927366819817_796934816_9241118_596791128_n+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0awb0KUqBrHAK3jCTwCErShk_oJKw7KRw6qX1CtGbDwnzXwHJyfeD23Wk-5fi8wHxQfMj79TVDzuZbgekFJqvYwY200sTMI9HylFBokqQXKnlWfjahxLh-P9giVY_NKLUEBhCDHAtJKTQ/s400/33965_10150927366819817_796934816_9241118_596791128_n+(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luntiang Paraiso</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadGT3_8GMTp4WUbWo395gZghH-azTXCT7dKw-uBt4VQqdZ4baGzM2Fllji7_UEMox8BIPlu4ISHnApUQ3j2oWHbNdhLpUA_9SRq2LkcpBvjKCgA02dso4Fv13j5yYW3tWzPzMutkvB5Zi/s1600/538877_10150927370154817_796934816_9241143_2069153482_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadGT3_8GMTp4WUbWo395gZghH-azTXCT7dKw-uBt4VQqdZ4baGzM2Fllji7_UEMox8BIPlu4ISHnApUQ3j2oWHbNdhLpUA_9SRq2LkcpBvjKCgA02dso4Fv13j5yYW3tWzPzMutkvB5Zi/s400/538877_10150927370154817_796934816_9241143_2069153482_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Surrounded by greenery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo2jEkP-b_DgB53evfSRbfpeX_gjkNs_391O0QjKjPHluI300yYC6eDLCjr8ODq9TdsFE0FtSQbYCscq-n7LGzwvlkQx6-dfWquScaCPM6mfaVGIcUJ7H7zLaT1AJVsIGXY45o5gQJSZvL/s1600/398965_10150927374694817_796934816_9241186_1778907081_n+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo2jEkP-b_DgB53evfSRbfpeX_gjkNs_391O0QjKjPHluI300yYC6eDLCjr8ODq9TdsFE0FtSQbYCscq-n7LGzwvlkQx6-dfWquScaCPM6mfaVGIcUJ7H7zLaT1AJVsIGXY45o5gQJSZvL/s400/398965_10150927374694817_796934816_9241186_1778907081_n+(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uh-oh! Dark clouds...Good thing it didn't rain. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What vacation would be complete without dozens and dozens of pictures? Being the camerawhores that we are, we took photos of the view and of ourselves with the view in every imaginable view there is =) Thanks to Joann's insight to bring her camera. I, on the other hand, was sooo absent-minded with all the kitchen busy-ness and <i>kulit</i>-texting our driver Von, that I forgot to bring a camera, grrr! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgLAV8HLFg5fah49UgOV5Bji3xDFa8bp1kB30f6AcbM4QHTRxh1Q_uGOAHNPnmIeWD2JK0Cn9fUkwdzjBaWy0L71eSe7JweGYDQWZ4X_IuJGasUn5k0oDe594Zj8opxsEwsTu1qL3OXiJZ/s1600/551815_10150927358394817_796934816_9241044_293482550_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgLAV8HLFg5fah49UgOV5Bji3xDFa8bp1kB30f6AcbM4QHTRxh1Q_uGOAHNPnmIeWD2JK0Cn9fUkwdzjBaWy0L71eSe7JweGYDQWZ4X_IuJGasUn5k0oDe594Zj8opxsEwsTu1qL3OXiJZ/s400/551815_10150927358394817_796934816_9241044_293482550_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture picture!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After eating our packed lunch of roasted chicken, <i>pinangat </i>(a Bicol specialty which we required Kay to eat hehe), rice, spaghetti and Krispy Kreme doughnuts, we decided to take a brief stroll around the garden's vicinity. I was happy to see a lot of growing veggies and fruits at the organic farm. Stone House sells these veggies and fruits, but we chose to just pose with them for the pics hehe. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhASQzd-m5MSKuEe2bc4pkNYbSBb_XVeEzTqcPenDqpJRztZ2khxMMEqkIL5Izc8rEnjdatpqJfTkmtdhi4gFfp3WetKWeeA0WMaEdY0w-WmjjA3oWqazzrR7n2WBRHtOTu-4u7Kd4nYZD-/s1600/303323_10150927362024817_796934816_9241081_18481432_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhASQzd-m5MSKuEe2bc4pkNYbSBb_XVeEzTqcPenDqpJRztZ2khxMMEqkIL5Izc8rEnjdatpqJfTkmtdhi4gFfp3WetKWeeA0WMaEdY0w-WmjjA3oWqazzrR7n2WBRHtOTu-4u7Kd4nYZD-/s400/303323_10150927362024817_796934816_9241081_18481432_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the organic vegetable farm<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_uCa2zWoaKolUauzd-hjKQ1CeqdBWlLP_Xq6FhyphenhyphenxlSwoCQHQTWGtHBA_uBMI1LoNhZrJCNOXi7KMDgyUUFeupL2zBlIEoPwdhEbQU0acMMfdDfQpCiUPBtc0tCHBmklDetv9YIg_wuQY/s1600/481385_10150927361259817_796934816_9241072_1208912384_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_uCa2zWoaKolUauzd-hjKQ1CeqdBWlLP_Xq6FhyphenhyphenxlSwoCQHQTWGtHBA_uBMI1LoNhZrJCNOXi7KMDgyUUFeupL2zBlIEoPwdhEbQU0acMMfdDfQpCiUPBtc0tCHBmklDetv9YIg_wuQY/s400/481385_10150927361259817_796934816_9241072_1208912384_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Phillip had an uber time chasing dragonflies. The mag-<i>tita</i> spent some quality time playing and posing for the pictures. Later in the afternoon, tita Liz also became a swimming pool nanny hehe...So now about swimming, we decided to sample the infinity pool at around 3PM just when the sun is no longer scorching. We also took turns looking after and playing with Phillip, who had so much fun in the water!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhimXyH5OTkmz9Bth6zwrUpayJrf0hU65xtgfKhYSSnY_obD3wyfWd-ntOtM5gzuOui-NjDleoMQ1N7qvOsw_8RTxBOwXL7L0Kd8C8R1iuj23GqmWIUw_0ONySDHH42kRw3jJc3gjfSMaof/s1600/564223_10150927357809817_796934816_9241039_586089435_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhimXyH5OTkmz9Bth6zwrUpayJrf0hU65xtgfKhYSSnY_obD3wyfWd-ntOtM5gzuOui-NjDleoMQ1N7qvOsw_8RTxBOwXL7L0Kd8C8R1iuj23GqmWIUw_0ONySDHH42kRw3jJc3gjfSMaof/s400/564223_10150927357809817_796934816_9241039_586089435_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liz and Phillip</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsjL5MfSSUqsoGJ0fkEmV7FS_Udgoxv-82talXcyj8Lf34GZr-96fikw0IPR_RI22Jz-TNqUbGrJ1vnHLHGuwKeQaUZscuCMOR84QEcqjZgUhqRqtL8ORDkAn8UEQV-kvE4C4A5MxKdBk/s1600/72820_10150927367289817_796934816_9241125_831824671_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsjL5MfSSUqsoGJ0fkEmV7FS_Udgoxv-82talXcyj8Lf34GZr-96fikw0IPR_RI22Jz-TNqUbGrJ1vnHLHGuwKeQaUZscuCMOR84QEcqjZgUhqRqtL8ORDkAn8UEQV-kvE4C4A5MxKdBk/s400/72820_10150927367289817_796934816_9241125_831824671_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Little Boy and His Aunt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRyzn9Ya_gEB-6rmw14GC1tKZKOU68KE52_UDVtj6o3KsXdFj3nX6-e5uskowlb4jW2bbvfZkV2CVKIBSy94SCMbu5IBjkJ5cm5N61IITK0udPZMC7Zn2qrXa6sQXun1iNU2us9eVTIZDt/s1600/540644_10150927377019817_2144875385_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRyzn9Ya_gEB-6rmw14GC1tKZKOU68KE52_UDVtj6o3KsXdFj3nX6-e5uskowlb4jW2bbvfZkV2CVKIBSy94SCMbu5IBjkJ5cm5N61IITK0udPZMC7Zn2qrXa6sQXun1iNU2us9eVTIZDt/s400/540644_10150927377019817_2144875385_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The author, Kay, tita Liz and Phillip--having fun at the pool</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ze054OwVVKCeNYTdFYvDlRbbBQaP0egqSxCfmY_4yZ2xHhdmKC1OQQiJf26Ll5-SGqx9p1uUcT0hZhMmymvWXe51Ko-eCf2U6hpVSMbjMYjz5DPRdKTTVu67zyTByz0x-kjC_4vQ3mY-/s1600/165921_10150927376884817_796934816_9241207_1024719493_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ze054OwVVKCeNYTdFYvDlRbbBQaP0egqSxCfmY_4yZ2xHhdmKC1OQQiJf26Ll5-SGqx9p1uUcT0hZhMmymvWXe51Ko-eCf2U6hpVSMbjMYjz5DPRdKTTVu67zyTByz0x-kjC_4vQ3mY-/s400/165921_10150927376884817_796934816_9241207_1024719493_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hydrophilic Author</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It has been my dream to swim in an infinity pool. I get to finally fulfill one of my bucket list must-do's. Yey! The water's cool and shallow (4.5ft) and there is this sort-of viewing deck at one end of the pool made of fiber glass. Cool. Maybe it was really designed for underwater picture-taking, so Kay and I had our own photo shoot ala Top Model (Philippines) ;)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclERMfJ_dPBBWE6c8eK17byNPy-3_DpY4Zz04W72404vV0mFq7CO2bZOk5wTk69pff5qe2-1CaUKL0USJDDutmvfMQnaJncAhbTrcjgixiCfCWBDngmJuW8o3pfSNj_CuqShBMNIU9BGS/s1600/532741_10150927376054817_633666727_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclERMfJ_dPBBWE6c8eK17byNPy-3_DpY4Zz04W72404vV0mFq7CO2bZOk5wTk69pff5qe2-1CaUKL0USJDDutmvfMQnaJncAhbTrcjgixiCfCWBDngmJuW8o3pfSNj_CuqShBMNIU9BGS/s400/532741_10150927376054817_633666727_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yey! Fulfilling my dream of swimming in an infinity pool. What simple fun.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T24Tt6OavHl0JpRpE_JNduPKP958pJapXYTghqC6_4yKgWwnr4QkdUYWk7BNYqBZeM7_Mzuyh3gBbFYjB7M0MtFhm2YTcwbQj3XaI7GlaMsBqphSStXI0lT6OrYZdBmv1La58maIF6A1/s1600/581114_10150927377274817_1140856308_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T24Tt6OavHl0JpRpE_JNduPKP958pJapXYTghqC6_4yKgWwnr4QkdUYWk7BNYqBZeM7_Mzuyh3gBbFYjB7M0MtFhm2YTcwbQj3XaI7GlaMsBqphSStXI0lT6OrYZdBmv1La58maIF6A1/s400/581114_10150927377274817_1140856308_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top Model pictorial ang peg! ;)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Jo and Von played billiards, which costs P100 per hour. I don't know if the loser of the game had to pay the tab, but as far as I know one person lost big time to our billiard hustler friend hehe. I wanted to sing (videoke) but it was brownout the whole afternoon, so I didn't get to exercise my vocal prowess.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Anyways, after the swim, it's time to go home. Liz and Kay still have a long trip ahead of them the following day, as they will be going to Donsol for butanding-watching and then, Legazpi City. Plus, the little boy Phillip--not to mention, his tita Liz--appeared tired already. So we ate snacks, packed up, rode the car and drove back to lowlands. Whew, what a hectic day. Just like all my other posts, I would end this one with the statement that hopefully there will be a repeat of this kind of trip with the same people someday, somewhere ;) </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">TRIP RECAP AND OTHER TIPS:</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1. Getting to Stonehouse is relatively easy. For commuters, just ride a jeepney going to Panicuazon from Naga <i>old centro </i>near the supermarket. Fare could range from P20 to P30; trip may last more for than an hour. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For those with vehicles, just follow the road from centro to San Felipe and Pacol, via Francia Ave., then all the way to Mount Isarog. The markers to watch-out for are the San Francisco Chruch and, at the end of Francia Ave., the Penafrancia Church just after the Francia-Magsaysay junction. After the barangays of Pacol and Carolina is Panicuazon.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2. T<span style="background-color: white;">he garden resort is j</span><span style="background-color: white;">ust several meters away from the unloading point in Panicuzaon. There are a number of </span><i style="background-color: white;">sari-sari</i><span style="background-color: white;"> stores there, so you may ask around for directions. If I remember correctly, you will have to walk in an L-shape direction (straight ahead then turn left), though the dirt road will actually lead you to the resort. By the way, for those with smaller cars, be careful because you might get stranded/trapped in the muddy tracks especially if it recently rained. Once you see the large wooden gate, you'd know that you reached the place.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3. Entrance fee is P500/person, no discounts for kids :( There is no need for reservation, but it will be safer to confirm the date of your visit lest you arrive at a time when the place is fully packed or rented out for a prenuptial photoshoot or wedding reception.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4. Activities include swimming, billiards, videoke, and strolling around the organic farm and garden. Or you may do nothing; just enjoy the view =)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">5. Service is just OK. The owners do not really go out of their way to entertain the guests. Usually it's the hired helps the brief the guests about the amenities, etc., but it doesn't mean that you can't approach the owners for your inquiries.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">6. Bring your own foods and snacks, unless you are willing to pay some hundreds of pesos more on top of the P500 entrance fee.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">7. Bring your own drinks too...along with other essentials such as shampoo and soap if you will be swimming, sun block, towels etc. And don't forget, insect repellent lotion to ward away pesky mosquitoes!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">8. Better to arrive there early (resort opens at 10AM) and go home before nightfall. If you are commuting, it is important to go home early afternoon, as you might get left behind by the jeep's last trip. If you're driving, the road is pitch black at night so it is safer to drive if there is still some daylight. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">9. Also, I don't remember seeing gasoline stations on the way to Panicuazon, so better refill your tanks while still in Naga <i>centro</i> (the nearest is a Shell gasoline station along Magsaysay Ave., in front of Avenue Square).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">10. Budget could be below P1000 for a whole day trip. This includes fare from Naga centro, entrance fee, use of billiards table, videoke, and shopping for food baons, etc.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">11. Most importantly, just relax and enjoy. The view is amazing, promise! So don't be like me; be like Joann. In other words, bring your camera =)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">FIN.</span></div>
</div>
Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-3593547657083964232012-06-11T22:32:00.000+08:002012-07-09T10:24:09.570+08:00A Stormy Bagasbas and Some Musings on Life, Family, the Beach and Approaching 30 =)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgen1cL9bnUkXgIc0OFV3gvI2kTGwDlzoASI06-QuTI0GSW_enuTl_fFRlzbKdWehYECQhcQHnOeNMvVhWavmB7ixS0z3dv3HYFDtziPTmRYCKObqsUPHJteMiMHA4DqaSgdmxNOg0P0DPy/s1600/DSCF0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgen1cL9bnUkXgIc0OFV3gvI2kTGwDlzoASI06-QuTI0GSW_enuTl_fFRlzbKdWehYECQhcQHnOeNMvVhWavmB7ixS0z3dv3HYFDtziPTmRYCKObqsUPHJteMiMHA4DqaSgdmxNOg0P0DPy/s400/DSCF0005.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The author: making the most of a stormy beach moment</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Whenever I go to the beach, I just can't help but write about it and gush about my feelings on how the vastness of the sea and the beauty of nature amaze me, even if I almost sound like somebody high on something hehe. Who can blame a beach junkie? =)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJptxaHccCVF7lp7OcEJDiTUHa8ASvm9CzSLze_pNejCkT1mud3sICu-HRRFhZxw6mwrZYX1TDD5H73ahGBrYFyGElCn1kErUsKeaYWj-TH5VpTHnSuUQkXE73Fol-NSPtCXBIHHOwb74/s400/10730_151447764926_2515318_n.jpg" width="400" /></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyREWf7A7EnR8g8vr7GpcJhnJKRUNnmERNLID7hoz_JcLvvFUt0KTyXgFgpSgw35YRihbUgQ_lOYrPxz8eYBtI-_oI8kvkEngStJeJhVGEwQlsezQzIc_FuEv8_tcmuuxVanzhcAjL8qkO/s1600/10730_151447859926_3582956_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyREWf7A7EnR8g8vr7GpcJhnJKRUNnmERNLID7hoz_JcLvvFUt0KTyXgFgpSgw35YRihbUgQ_lOYrPxz8eYBtI-_oI8kvkEngStJeJhVGEwQlsezQzIc_FuEv8_tcmuuxVanzhcAjL8qkO/s400/10730_151447859926_3582956_n.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Bagasbas Beach when it's sunny and pretty</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Some years back, I wrote a </span><a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/10/bagasbas-beach-surf-swim-relax.html" style="background-color: transparent;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">post</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> about </span><a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/10/bagasbas-beach-surf-swim-relax.html" style="background-color: transparent;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Bagasbas</b></span></a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> beach (If you are interested to know more about <b>Bagasbas</b>, please refer to this previous </span><a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/10/bagasbas-beach-surf-swim-relax.html" style="background-color: transparent;" target="_blank">post</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">). </span><span style="background-color: transparent;">Up to now I still go back to those afternoon memories with my good friends, Cheekay and Von. It was then that Cheekay mastered her driving, not to mention her shooting skills (with a camera! that is), with Von being her ever patient mentor. It was also then that I first ate at Kusina ni Angel, which has now become a favorite. It represents a time of carefree fun and spontaneity, as well as fearlessness (for having braved the big waves of Bagasbas). </span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK004x7Yca241uvBfm7bS_nY3rYpyf4Ro-OZsgIQd4Mw5VMDf6tC_oOvn0fSI7f1A-reD9DXfb3QhpP_gwM_hDmQEARpnE2w80XUhmaZyMr7jYWdMFB4-D2EiC6dFRZTkkxpwqLlhVo6cJ/s1600/10730_151447684926_799474926_2375808_7553975_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK004x7Yca241uvBfm7bS_nY3rYpyf4Ro-OZsgIQd4Mw5VMDf6tC_oOvn0fSI7f1A-reD9DXfb3QhpP_gwM_hDmQEARpnE2w80XUhmaZyMr7jYWdMFB4-D2EiC6dFRZTkkxpwqLlhVo6cJ/s320/10730_151447684926_799474926_2375808_7553975_n.jpg" width="216" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgREiTICVMd6oRw3wD-D5POu7rOHpURoTm8YNw8HTVPUGcqHvOKJQ2JBo4Ec4sJezrnGrLxN4Sapmxz14n84bcxSwjZXSAt5w4hpm7qRkWLZAjPpYwCEqEjG8ujPln7VlQP2MMH-oCmxWKs/s1600/10730_151447774926_1893523_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgREiTICVMd6oRw3wD-D5POu7rOHpURoTm8YNw8HTVPUGcqHvOKJQ2JBo4Ec4sJezrnGrLxN4Sapmxz14n84bcxSwjZXSAt5w4hpm7qRkWLZAjPpYwCEqEjG8ujPln7VlQP2MMH-oCmxWKs/s320/10730_151447774926_1893523_n.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Bagasbas with Cheekie and Bon some years back</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: justify;">Without intending to exaggerate, that Bagasbas trip some years back pretty much illustrates my life in my 20s. I was very much like the happy, empowered and come-what-may child, who thinks that she can do almost anything she sets her heart to. There was this desire to live my life in the moment; that consciousness of every second ticking by; and that fear that life might pass me by without being able to do the things I love . Plus, I was ever confident that life always has a way of turning out just fine. I am good at weathering out storms, just as I am good at enjoying the sun. Now that I am fast approaching my 30s--at a rate which I am more comfortable with--I guess I tend to ruminate a lot about these stuff hehe. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">My 20s is my power years and I just hope that I can replicate that energy in the next stages of life.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">Anyways, so much for that chitchat! Back to the trip. Hehe.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I went back to Bagasbas several days ago. This time with my family. <span style="background-color: transparent;">We are not the kind of family that goes on family trips. The last excursion I can remember was when I was still in grade school. As I grew older, I began to have my own trips with friends; family travel just seemed out of the picture.</span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> Hence when papa wanted to have a road trip, of course in the guise of tackling some business there hehe, we immediately said "go!" </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">We pushed through despite the tropical depression that day. It was Signal No.1 and rain poured sporadically but like a whiplash.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2lNAWV63Af3yl1P_BNDs-lSfJ0RMt7isTdSmFvchGMKUgNFzST96UErvbwr3Sk_reOWeJcSaZi94-XxpfS0ggPFF02lZP7hEefogqyBMhVvEzv87IsVcp1wghn3fcQ7VWMNDNqbfKY-h/s1600/DSCF0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2lNAWV63Af3yl1P_BNDs-lSfJ0RMt7isTdSmFvchGMKUgNFzST96UErvbwr3Sk_reOWeJcSaZi94-XxpfS0ggPFF02lZP7hEefogqyBMhVvEzv87IsVcp1wghn3fcQ7VWMNDNqbfKY-h/s400/DSCF0003.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN4rpTqDp9umvtXhWE71asqrHSsGci3PDmsouNBUYgjYtuxw_Ol2JphT5J8CY5cPrfuThVhEmGwEzJHOGeCqE7MPevSfCgiL2fTwYOecAqUthwx6PePqFAiVpUfY7R4UQzg9s-Er764Y_/s1600/DSCF0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN4rpTqDp9umvtXhWE71asqrHSsGci3PDmsouNBUYgjYtuxw_Ol2JphT5J8CY5cPrfuThVhEmGwEzJHOGeCqE7MPevSfCgiL2fTwYOecAqUthwx6PePqFAiVpUfY7R4UQzg9s-Er764Y_/s400/DSCF0004.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Just like any other beach that directly faces an ocean, Bagasbas is powerful and even irreverent at times. The thundering, booming and crackling sounds of the waves invoke awe, especially during such stormy day. </span><span style="background-color: transparent;">My papa, however, was so resolute to visit his home province that we still continued anyway (the hard-headedness! I took after him haha).</span><span style="background-color: transparent;">What we saw that day was a stormy Bagasbas. Stormy and gray--a striking contrast from the last time I have seen it. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumfwThmkjTTuFMLFbD5x4A0l4uFJOqNrBbwYu8MiBFC3eNc6j13CyBkPkxdKjmvsHpfwdzOUjJieHlenTtxvRWdGpFmhv2Ik6q5KUcLrGvPZ75szySeBCD0DZeTwax5acRMNEtV0GaPgV/s1600/DSCF0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumfwThmkjTTuFMLFbD5x4A0l4uFJOqNrBbwYu8MiBFC3eNc6j13CyBkPkxdKjmvsHpfwdzOUjJieHlenTtxvRWdGpFmhv2Ik6q5KUcLrGvPZ75szySeBCD0DZeTwax5acRMNEtV0GaPgV/s400/DSCF0022.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Where has all the blueness gone?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Bagasbas that met us is an angry one. The waves are bigger and for me, meaner; as if, in its fit of bad mood, warning everyone, "Do not mess with me right now". It surprised my mother that there were still people swimming. There were a number of surfers too. I reckon that the waters of Bagasbas during a mild storm are good for a surf. I sort of envied the surfers, so I just conjured in my mind how it will feel like to ride the waves and the adrenaline rush of the moment. This made me decide to try surfing too-- ASAP!!! I'll write about my surfing escapade in Baler in a succeeding post. =)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRV-mlE77b2B4oGfgODYWnhHDLlxMu11aYm1SncZA9INVwET8UcR8e6SPxCpt-QHl9YntIBm99ta5UeVRflVdChBlTTaKGxGK97P80hUklFMq0xaXQIUL9h9aRafeITCsBG-IwfFI2VziH/s1600/DSCF0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRV-mlE77b2B4oGfgODYWnhHDLlxMu11aYm1SncZA9INVwET8UcR8e6SPxCpt-QHl9YntIBm99ta5UeVRflVdChBlTTaKGxGK97P80hUklFMq0xaXQIUL9h9aRafeITCsBG-IwfFI2VziH/s400/DSCF0023.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A Gray Day</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Way back with Cheekay and Von, it was all sunny and pretty--so picture perfect. I remember that I immediately succumbed to the temptation of taking a dip into the notorious surfing waters of Bagasbas. </span><span style="background-color: transparent;">During normal days, the place can be packed with picnickers, joggers, swimmers, surfers, skim surfers and <i>usyseros</i> like us hehe. Bagasbas have gained a reputation as a surfing beach and attracted more surfers that there is already an annual Bagasbas surfing festival week during summer, if I am not mistaken. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This time, however, I know that I will not be swimming so I did bother to bring a change of clothes. But still, nothing changes my love for this beach even at its not-so-picture perfect, stormy interludes.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBvw9fmswYLXvoj_ma-_KUSw1b16U51AnqvhFme7JQp644j2LrNRA3PdbEGnWVuebJjYc0s047xbWqpV4h-3YGwWp69ftWrL31A3euDrYIGJujh5d2ivdYHa0CVi4WiFqca6IPqE7oKMyt/s1600/DSCF0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBvw9fmswYLXvoj_ma-_KUSw1b16U51AnqvhFme7JQp644j2LrNRA3PdbEGnWVuebJjYc0s047xbWqpV4h-3YGwWp69ftWrL31A3euDrYIGJujh5d2ivdYHa0CVi4WiFqca6IPqE7oKMyt/s400/DSCF0013.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">My brother and I just took the opportunity to have a photo-op hehe, even if we are clearly far from model materials. It's just fun to goof around when you are bored and you know that you have nothing else to do but wait for lunch.</span>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ln6iYV68TRZpFrA9r1V589vpz8nDMvcnnUunqEpMbK-cLhHh82T-EiYrxHnRMfc2r7DJ4JSmv9s8_3qsrbBoUyfRnBJT-QCd3hyZ-yBNfrqyDXbZ6e6VQTxlic4WOVkL4DGA6boWbRvq/s1600/DSCF0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ln6iYV68TRZpFrA9r1V589vpz8nDMvcnnUunqEpMbK-cLhHh82T-EiYrxHnRMfc2r7DJ4JSmv9s8_3qsrbBoUyfRnBJT-QCd3hyZ-yBNfrqyDXbZ6e6VQTxlic4WOVkL4DGA6boWbRvq/s400/DSCF0016.JPG" width="400" /></a>
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1BIpYGnGhWVc6YQmHx90o4eN8DN8NiKwt2ECs3H9fOM05JwmDVDNEUbn7jImWRW-Z5Pe0pOwJQWLyOJrMwsSSXEtuNLFIJdSpc_Hu4c5UbUBpQVKWqj3O2BnnyD9i0wy2ysPdBR1KQTd/s1600/DSCF0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1BIpYGnGhWVc6YQmHx90o4eN8DN8NiKwt2ECs3H9fOM05JwmDVDNEUbn7jImWRW-Z5Pe0pOwJQWLyOJrMwsSSXEtuNLFIJdSpc_Hu4c5UbUBpQVKWqj3O2BnnyD9i0wy2ysPdBR1KQTd/s400/DSCF0009.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My brother, horsing around...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFZrup5BAcTjyhcUDwt8l6Qg28kFISmGaBBeP2PXdqzTqAukosEBf1keyDVTyfE7QVefv9BvmM7zYadB15On1s7dlcYGJft6OYULjLrZre48gDPnJF56Fw1bEhkNITX_EZ2h4VmZwNwMr/s1600/DSCF0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFZrup5BAcTjyhcUDwt8l6Qg28kFISmGaBBeP2PXdqzTqAukosEBf1keyDVTyfE7QVefv9BvmM7zYadB15On1s7dlcYGJft6OYULjLrZre48gDPnJF56Fw1bEhkNITX_EZ2h4VmZwNwMr/s400/DSCF0006.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Some parts of the beach are not suitable for swimming</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Now about lunch, I was excited to eat again at </span><b style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kusina ni Angel</b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, a restaurant that I always recommend to friends who ask me about foodie locations in Bagasbas. Once again, the place did not fail me.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq6KMlzIgXc3rtJ0qXj5QOo_TSaidQ7PpPa3sSfA5QCj-ZBOgfIXrYpcg2xT0pVVTBv6W_ff2HDeklALAvpBJHWQX4hyphenhyphenSuZnMPzU3gV-CuesSekSGsEoro8fHxhcydIm1P5YCdL4Z3svKv/s1600/DSCF0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq6KMlzIgXc3rtJ0qXj5QOo_TSaidQ7PpPa3sSfA5QCj-ZBOgfIXrYpcg2xT0pVVTBv6W_ff2HDeklALAvpBJHWQX4hyphenhyphenSuZnMPzU3gV-CuesSekSGsEoro8fHxhcydIm1P5YCdL4Z3svKv/s400/DSCF0028.JPG" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">...And this is what we ate</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><b>Kusina ni Angel</b> is simply about the food. The place, for me, is quite unappealing. It has the ambiance of a bus stop <i>carenderia</i>. Don't expect for exceptional service either, because waiters/waitresses are simply there to take your orders and attend to other simple needs. Now on the plus side, food is super affordable. Our orders of <b>Frito Misto</b> (a favorite), <b>Sinigang na Isda</b>, and <b>Fish Fillet Rellyenado</b> cost P200, P145, and P195, respectively. This is super cheap given the quantity and quality of the food.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7aKerPWXff_2v12brMNPKOCJXBSbEAlqHhPHJs-GKuZwxJSP57FM5ATUDIA9fAL5jhy93dyRvGYDTalzguVS3tpFN85k9TEakPsOSn6t1ccVgn4kLw818NWAERbvzkdFXLyWAhQMmu3k/s1600/DSCF0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7aKerPWXff_2v12brMNPKOCJXBSbEAlqHhPHJs-GKuZwxJSP57FM5ATUDIA9fAL5jhy93dyRvGYDTalzguVS3tpFN85k9TEakPsOSn6t1ccVgn4kLw818NWAERbvzkdFXLyWAhQMmu3k/s400/DSCF0029.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lutong bahay goodness of Frito Misto and Sinigang na Isda</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><b>Frito Misto</b> is actually a platter of seafood (shrimp, fish fillet, squid and clams) deep-fried in batter tempura-style. The <b>fish fillet reynellado</b>, is a large chunk of fillet with some meat stuffing and a dark, <i>asado</i>-like sauce that really tasted well with the fish. The<b> fish</b> s<b>inigang (fish in sour broth)</b> is just that--<i>sinigang</i>, only that it has that home cooked goodness of lots of vegetables and large portions of fresh fish served steaming hot. What is good about this place is that you can be assured of the freshness of the sea foods due to its proximity to the sea. When it comes to service, it was not as slow as I expected considering that they cook (or in some instance, perhaps reheat) the food only when an order is placed. Food presentation is not so bad either.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXA2xzX7z1KW0OvS6nZgQeQBgGnoXqbA0UdxQ_-XGwVQM9nowx50ip0lf2DxXof3PUSzwvoxW4bUm825s0MJXx2fCdRMxbmatDYuCsOZKGhEP3nenvRZUNDdMUwVIVmR_6d9n4yreAKHwR/s1600/DSCF0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXA2xzX7z1KW0OvS6nZgQeQBgGnoXqbA0UdxQ_-XGwVQM9nowx50ip0lf2DxXof3PUSzwvoxW4bUm825s0MJXx2fCdRMxbmatDYuCsOZKGhEP3nenvRZUNDdMUwVIVmR_6d9n4yreAKHwR/s400/DSCF0030.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_s6lSN-oqSC6FPtprZSRgkhZPp7zqueZs2oKvLEdYJVMlerIMPAj0PbDcC5LJ3CQ3oPQchh0-NImP8mgIyQdTpb4cFpyAQoiVB55vdCcgqqJAoEzLQ9q6RNRAcJ97nPYCw6EmZM83wMsC/s1600/DSCF0031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_s6lSN-oqSC6FPtprZSRgkhZPp7zqueZs2oKvLEdYJVMlerIMPAj0PbDcC5LJ3CQ3oPQchh0-NImP8mgIyQdTpb4cFpyAQoiVB55vdCcgqqJAoEzLQ9q6RNRAcJ97nPYCw6EmZM83wMsC/s400/DSCF0031.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">...Tsadan!! And this is how our table looked like after =D</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In the end, everything's about cleanliness and taste and I think Kusina ni Angel passed all these. That's why I like the place despite its simplicity hehe. Anyways, Kendi, my travel junkie of a roommate, suggested another place, a burger joint, near the Bagasbas Beach. In fact, she mentioned a number of eateries which I am now excited to try once I go back there. So I'll have pretty much to talk about next time hehe.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Anyways after lunch we decided to head back home already because the rain was already lashing on us. It would be a difficult drive back home if the weather gets worse. So that's it, a simple road trip with my family. Sometimes, simple is the best there is. Tata for now! =)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<br />Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-12203020256565082022012-05-29T01:15:00.000+08:002012-05-29T21:07:49.588+08:00JUAG FISH SANCTUARY: The Off the Beaten Path Wonder of Matnog, Sorsogon (Part II)<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfoTNrw022OhM6MS7xnJ0SIGvdwpNnWRtdAQSnoWcpk3z8ZeH1YzEeBsxajfDMGA64aXtoZgH08A2kLX9ZPVZi9pv5IbHFAj2fllsy-LYe6rxulRZOA6ZX3GUe8c__c7CQ-l4NfexKGTS/s1600/330688_10150539165814927_799474926_8328273_134423213_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfoTNrw022OhM6MS7xnJ0SIGvdwpNnWRtdAQSnoWcpk3z8ZeH1YzEeBsxajfDMGA64aXtoZgH08A2kLX9ZPVZi9pv5IbHFAj2fllsy-LYe6rxulRZOA6ZX3GUe8c__c7CQ-l4NfexKGTS/s400/330688_10150539165814927_799474926_8328273_134423213_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">@ Juag Fish Sanctuary</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent;">This post is the continuation of my previous one regarding our excursion at the beautiful yet oft-mysterious town of </span><b style="background-color: transparent;">Matnog, Sorsogon</b><span style="background-color: transparent;">. As I have stated in an earlier </span><a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/03/subic-island-off-beaten-path-wonder-of.html" style="background-color: transparent;" target="_blank">post</a><span style="background-color: transparent;">, Matnog is one of the farthest provinces in the Island of Luzon, as it lies on the very tip of the Sorsogon province in the Bicol Region. Because it faces the Pacific Ocean, Matnog is also an ingress/egress to and from the other islands of the Philippines, the Visayas and Mindanao islands.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://texaninthephilippines.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Province-Catanduanes-Bicol-Region-Map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://texaninthephilippines.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Province-Catanduanes-Bicol-Region-Map.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Matnog is more often known for its bustling port that plays an important role in transportation and commerce. However, apart from Matnog's importance to travel and commerce, the town can also be a tourist's paradise with its white sand beaches and fish sanctuary, which can be reached through a rented <i>banca</i> within several minutes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxNB7poD7h5oqGuok2sAO2Jp_ppDLI6xu9qedMibZJ7cTqQ0PFAyiOszIi0IjuCZvefOEqBS0DnfOZ6HTaWxRktqurg0MfNfKpHZic7is6LtaDZoY32FHg_tla6BrwLNDTw7NAAaCwqGtz/s1600/407019_2891598605589_1128970046_3032446_920534052_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxNB7poD7h5oqGuok2sAO2Jp_ppDLI6xu9qedMibZJ7cTqQ0PFAyiOszIi0IjuCZvefOEqBS0DnfOZ6HTaWxRktqurg0MfNfKpHZic7is6LtaDZoY32FHg_tla6BrwLNDTw7NAAaCwqGtz/s400/407019_2891598605589_1128970046_3032446_920534052_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our first location for our rendezvous was the <b><u><a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/03/subic-island-off-beaten-path-wonder-of.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Subic Island Liit</span></a></u></b> (<a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/03/subic-island-off-beaten-path-wonder-of.html" target="_blank">previous post</a>) also known as <b>la playa rosa</b> because of the pinkish tinge of its white sand.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvyylkpNySGXF_GOgIZRd2QT8AeyHPd6xdESUo5NyLU3IfGSomcmVTR4Tz_AVod7KOwUgXBa6hSKQ_WskNoiEXIxYVJkcZLI9P1j9t39Z8BcVPpI8mIEdbmeAqxvHtbX9BkXiM7WDqWqS3/s1600/412112_10150538963329927_799474926_8327829_154736498_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvyylkpNySGXF_GOgIZRd2QT8AeyHPd6xdESUo5NyLU3IfGSomcmVTR4Tz_AVod7KOwUgXBa6hSKQ_WskNoiEXIxYVJkcZLI9P1j9t39Z8BcVPpI8mIEdbmeAqxvHtbX9BkXiM7WDqWqS3/s400/412112_10150538963329927_799474926_8327829_154736498_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Subic Island (Liit)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent;">Our tour guides were also talking about </span><b style="background-color: transparent;">Subic Daku</b><span style="background-color: transparent;"> and </span><b style="background-color: transparent;">Tikling Island</b><span style="background-color: transparent;">, which are said to be equally beautiful and thus, are deemed as tourists' getaways also. The bicol word "daku", by the way, refers to the larger size of the said island (as compared to Subic Liit, hence the name). </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;">We decided against pushing through to these islands though, since we needed to get back to Sorsogon City in time to make it for the last trip of the bus/van going to Naga City. Unfortunate for me because Tikling is said to be the location of a lighthouse. I should have loved to add another lighthouse to my bucket list of conquered lighthouses (as of now, I only have two: the Cape Bojeador and Capones Lighthouses). But, there is always a next time, as the saying goes =)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcS9Ui6yz2F2w7M9Cm-HXT5WLwsQB529OI2nd-XDld-ev4ijQSseL9dliiCKKPgbuho7vpzzJcVbQBoQkGexbydqfG8HoZ7gfdWrDO_Ceo9_tSl_Hh5m0w0TWh5vE1I09nHRVl02dywZk7/s1600/325057_10150539027014927_799474926_8328044_2146925995_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcS9Ui6yz2F2w7M9Cm-HXT5WLwsQB529OI2nd-XDld-ev4ijQSseL9dliiCKKPgbuho7vpzzJcVbQBoQkGexbydqfG8HoZ7gfdWrDO_Ceo9_tSl_Hh5m0w0TWh5vE1I09nHRVl02dywZk7/s400/325057_10150539027014927_799474926_8328044_2146925995_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Subic Island (daku) from afar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent;">We just opted to head directly to <b>Juag Fish Sanctuary</b> after spending some blog-worthy hours at Subic Liit. To give a brief recap of our picnic, we travelled from Brgy.Tagban, Matnog by boat to Subic Liit; the ride lasted around 20 minutes. Then, we ate our sumptuous lunch of steamed/boild crabs, grilled <i>molmol</i> or parrot fish, grilled <i>liempo</i> and <i>ginataang</i> <i>langka</i> with crabs (unripe jackfruit and crabs in coconut milk). </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;">We also had our fill of freshly harvested young coconuts or <i>buko</i>; and finally we swam our hearts out until we were so tired that all we wanted to do was post for the pics hehe. Then, before 2pm, we rode the boat once more for Juag.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2ZYGPNBIYB4il0Zq2CbQqh1a8QYYO2Lb0M2g8AjwJsUrNwmovmg-MBW3qpB_WelM7ugfoAnskoYOHF13q11-V84QUMYO9JIG7mXteCff54DI6nznguYSJ5BtrxfNE-qPIhyphenhyphenLBwxCQXAC/s1600/DSCN1104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2ZYGPNBIYB4il0Zq2CbQqh1a8QYYO2Lb0M2g8AjwJsUrNwmovmg-MBW3qpB_WelM7ugfoAnskoYOHF13q11-V84QUMYO9JIG7mXteCff54DI6nznguYSJ5BtrxfNE-qPIhyphenhyphenLBwxCQXAC/s200/DSCN1104.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhakMyQ85Z4Twcdj8XvWC_iisSP26MG7Din38FOCbEMgqlX9Dr6TPEqUO5VnnnTuZ2KgXiL0WGJjqQ98orGm3uLXxyFTnodJLVSLTfvBj-EZBQkG5eK40nlV-Q0M5JV5YtX4ukJTLGEfIt_/s1600/DSCN1102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhakMyQ85Z4Twcdj8XvWC_iisSP26MG7Din38FOCbEMgqlX9Dr6TPEqUO5VnnnTuZ2KgXiL0WGJjqQ98orGm3uLXxyFTnodJLVSLTfvBj-EZBQkG5eK40nlV-Q0M5JV5YtX4ukJTLGEfIt_/s200/DSCN1102.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmzjWpzkq5oKzB-iizRjznNdvswe6EB9FtF1vssadBVHonQiCHy1G_QHvsPxmKzanLKpMlXHTR58LN0zxE7ykofCf9DH3pXhD_g3Vq8AwvWsibBDi8gSq9b5VXp72HZ3Gc-Dmi60SR8FJo/s1600/DSCN1105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmzjWpzkq5oKzB-iizRjznNdvswe6EB9FtF1vssadBVHonQiCHy1G_QHvsPxmKzanLKpMlXHTR58LN0zxE7ykofCf9DH3pXhD_g3Vq8AwvWsibBDi8gSq9b5VXp72HZ3Gc-Dmi60SR8FJo/s200/DSCN1105.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkO8_cHPMXcD8la7kvpxYmRLcJkOYVEvCIWNFIo15oQKKf99HR32o7AToK8P1oIuAwRYCywK3WWx7f1cCdnQBsMJpHo4d-DBbKuaqmSmYTaiiJqh22vWNonZF97B6FZvCmwhV3GfHuJuiJ/s1600/DSCN1106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkO8_cHPMXcD8la7kvpxYmRLcJkOYVEvCIWNFIo15oQKKf99HR32o7AToK8P1oIuAwRYCywK3WWx7f1cCdnQBsMJpHo4d-DBbKuaqmSmYTaiiJqh22vWNonZF97B6FZvCmwhV3GfHuJuiJ/s200/DSCN1106.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamon republic na! =)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgU5T1P7uAUro7g9urA9hQLnHnPYNmRkxiop6xreBGVEKwP8CEA5BMmp6g0SrKnTIRlEzf6ik0yG5cc4cR2UpBScek7W1JApOWFc9R6qjBdI_QZiImaVkWPwUajMAveMxPV1KVthiwT_bJ/s1600/332234_10150539021439927_799474926_8328034_521132098_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgU5T1P7uAUro7g9urA9hQLnHnPYNmRkxiop6xreBGVEKwP8CEA5BMmp6g0SrKnTIRlEzf6ik0yG5cc4cR2UpBScek7W1JApOWFc9R6qjBdI_QZiImaVkWPwUajMAveMxPV1KVthiwT_bJ/s400/332234_10150539021439927_799474926_8328034_521132098_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group picture before leaving Subic Island. Too bad we didn't have that ubiquitous jump shot by the beach =)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl0gt7pINyO9txM6fJVTuR1IeEJPvFfyFatpntyKbtiqYddT9D-prr6uEHHhS1AXViiR6Kq67lngz8RzverkzrIzlkBVweqhuUrRHWgOBX56duTawexQ_tGtRYVUAd3zxNzjirkh5p3Cnh/s1600/322789_10150539023879927_799474926_8328036_1687994046_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl0gt7pINyO9txM6fJVTuR1IeEJPvFfyFatpntyKbtiqYddT9D-prr6uEHHhS1AXViiR6Kq67lngz8RzverkzrIzlkBVweqhuUrRHWgOBX56duTawexQ_tGtRYVUAd3zxNzjirkh5p3Cnh/s400/322789_10150539023879927_799474926_8328036_1687994046_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">....and we were off to Juag Fish Sanctuary</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61L3pw-EY4q1uw5nsFaOyD4GWr-eD_AocjRJXuHZgz09aSa1af2MGoWUmFFKzDLw12u40k8W8k3dnApPOccHzBKj1nZj963mvv0JRHoOKz3Y_GsgN-JN-ZqScaVTxoUhK_5xwlEKZwgrI/s1600/211008_10150539042639927_799474926_8328063_110525181_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61L3pw-EY4q1uw5nsFaOyD4GWr-eD_AocjRJXuHZgz09aSa1af2MGoWUmFFKzDLw12u40k8W8k3dnApPOccHzBKj1nZj963mvv0JRHoOKz3Y_GsgN-JN-ZqScaVTxoUhK_5xwlEKZwgrI/s400/211008_10150539042639927_799474926_8328063_110525181_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the fish pens along the way. Fish provides food and livelihood to the locals.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd6t8V77acxwgDLHliSTU5gNT9Iw8Fb4lCXwD61W6Dfglqomj0RfNfO3HVGF6anSgDqTC4KkOuHgl8giRtxfhscxHKA5d-O7T_Zzy4bA4YuAEnxr2ApqWU_bBIOiS8r5K5ZMxbnaey4BAT/s1600/323499_10150539115829927_799474926_8328150_1829658793_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd6t8V77acxwgDLHliSTU5gNT9Iw8Fb4lCXwD61W6Dfglqomj0RfNfO3HVGF6anSgDqTC4KkOuHgl8giRtxfhscxHKA5d-O7T_Zzy4bA4YuAEnxr2ApqWU_bBIOiS8r5K5ZMxbnaey4BAT/s400/323499_10150539115829927_799474926_8328150_1829658793_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I just love fish sanctuaries. Each fish sanctuary I've been to offers a unique experience of beauty and adventure. Anyhoo, my fishy interactions, so to speak, always take my heart away. The same thing happened during our Juag visit.<br />
<br />
It was the first time I heard of Juag Fish Sanctuary. I did not even know that there is a fish sanctuary in Matnog. Hence, my excitement to go there. Good thing that I packed my goggles with me so I can see the amazing underwater view =)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh18Wxp3qKNtNQLAUeDOn-NCpMnXj8PkuSwIz8WZY8z8f5rDQruGYRVKKPApbnEOZ5sgS8U1b3rRb3znoai0Vyum1bKycgcPYge5ES4OyOm-GFEC2dffgcYxeJGNqy6gCEHGY0r7YiU_q3J/s1600/325340_10150539114729927_1415945538_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh18Wxp3qKNtNQLAUeDOn-NCpMnXj8PkuSwIz8WZY8z8f5rDQruGYRVKKPApbnEOZ5sgS8U1b3rRb3znoai0Vyum1bKycgcPYge5ES4OyOm-GFEC2dffgcYxeJGNqy6gCEHGY0r7YiU_q3J/s400/325340_10150539114729927_1415945538_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The fish sanctuary at Juag consists of coconut and bamboo stems attached together to create makeshift establishments. Though the improvised buildings look wobbly and unstable at first glance, with their crude and open structure, they are actually quite stable and steady notwithstanding being perched in the middle of the sea that is several meters deep.<br />
<br />
Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the caretakers of the fish sanctuary--one of the reasons is that Atty. Lheila is the daughter of the DENR Regional Technical Director of Region V, and Chris' dad is also the PENRO of Sorsogon, the one who arranged to make our trip hassle free. Therefore, in an effort to make our sojourn more fun and memorable, the sanctuary workers immediately searched for their special pet--the <i>pawikan </i>(marine turtle). Yes I know we kinda stressed the animal with our incessant attention and touching, but we just can't help but have our pictures taken with it hehe. Anyways, in due time, we also had it released back to its natural saltwater habitat.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjScy7FdIgP2VINX1FEVqLPYQu_kU-zFaoK-bvQJMbsdhto635uhBS_qfLStcmf61QTXkboe9pyDOChylorTP5UJX6TJIpjK4t6MVs3EkmKcdbfIBWtu1aqVlWSGiKQHU2IMwr0l5aOOsEM/s1600/329766_10150539043849927_303275779_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjScy7FdIgP2VINX1FEVqLPYQu_kU-zFaoK-bvQJMbsdhto635uhBS_qfLStcmf61QTXkboe9pyDOChylorTP5UJX6TJIpjK4t6MVs3EkmKcdbfIBWtu1aqVlWSGiKQHU2IMwr0l5aOOsEM/s400/329766_10150539043849927_303275779_o.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ms. T, posing ala-candidate of Ms. Earth =)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi0PMcSekVXlGq1BYdoI9Wx8oRLBXr_2kZqak-f-q5ooVCmxTL1Q-5oVg2mHx5qZc-mBb6drve8i451C1DRltMdCI1SheBb5WKQwV8Fca7OPkrnAWdviRf8Wlb8u31KP2XSeYP1Z8ygbgC/s1600/336211_10150539045374927_799474926_8328067_1548480819_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi0PMcSekVXlGq1BYdoI9Wx8oRLBXr_2kZqak-f-q5ooVCmxTL1Q-5oVg2mHx5qZc-mBb6drve8i451C1DRltMdCI1SheBb5WKQwV8Fca7OPkrnAWdviRf8Wlb8u31KP2XSeYP1Z8ygbgC/s400/336211_10150539045374927_799474926_8328067_1548480819_o.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atty. A., spending some loving <span style="background-color: transparent;">quality</span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> time with the turtle</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-UZMFMu-b3r7Jh9xB_CLpiyEpr2dobNm-MAKkxNLCLiG9uTYn_IUEDa47GKwnepohZ25EDGLLdCf8i8TblYqogVtlsEhCfiWUzYYpdUG696WJIV0mrdkkQDQvlTPSaCEjT0v1kweZDOh/s1600/404866_10150539108574927_799474926_8328137_253930303_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-UZMFMu-b3r7Jh9xB_CLpiyEpr2dobNm-MAKkxNLCLiG9uTYn_IUEDa47GKwnepohZ25EDGLLdCf8i8TblYqogVtlsEhCfiWUzYYpdUG696WJIV0mrdkkQDQvlTPSaCEjT0v1kweZDOh/s400/404866_10150539108574927_799474926_8328137_253930303_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Environmentalist and future environmental lawyer, Mr. C., having his pic taken with his New Found Friend =)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After the <i>pawikan</i> episode, we were in for another surprise. The caretakers then asked us to ride the improvised raft made of bamboos flanked by plastic containers and styrofoams. We were taken to the deeper part of the waters where a number of marine creatures are being bred in quantities.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVXNeJZArSwUmTPe70bq_POHAumzhuGoTtPha8hMn7N-78bb_I6v-GfhdaVaBpH-tcBpy_NLYedJx6FxzOtXr7mivP_fzktjrhIoPIUlOa7QJYcNU9kmOL2jndyNRwmnHdCVr33OYPa0e/s1600/394029_10150539109764927_873993054_n+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVXNeJZArSwUmTPe70bq_POHAumzhuGoTtPha8hMn7N-78bb_I6v-GfhdaVaBpH-tcBpy_NLYedJx6FxzOtXr7mivP_fzktjrhIoPIUlOa7QJYcNU9kmOL2jndyNRwmnHdCVr33OYPa0e/s400/394029_10150539109764927_873993054_n+(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN4LZuI36-zqv3z0s1yiAC5-dH73yog8K28xDsH-2om2TpbDG1HWXQ4shli89rPsvnm8XMW3Yq453lHfB_5BPl3ddd719h4SMFliDOtLZYJWj7lXq1Ws7cX1Z3ROvaCd8ryHp0r9NUdTDY/s1600/340853_10150539110934927_845007174_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN4LZuI36-zqv3z0s1yiAC5-dH73yog8K28xDsH-2om2TpbDG1HWXQ4shli89rPsvnm8XMW3Yq453lHfB_5BPl3ddd719h4SMFliDOtLZYJWj7lXq1Ws7cX1Z3ROvaCd8ryHp0r9NUdTDY/s400/340853_10150539110934927_845007174_o.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Then, the caretakers caught one crayfish from their crayfish pen and indulged our fancies of having our pictures taken with the poor creature hehe...which we also eventually released too because we can't afford to buy it with our uber limited budget =) We also fed the fishes with the feeds pellets the caretakers gave us. With every handful of feeds, schools of fish would rise to the surface with their mouths wide agape for the free food. This, again, entertained us. So the fish feeding went on for a while.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgCOJixCbZsdwF_cX3MkjPnN6HSVZR7wCT1xBGFr5rKYcTQ5TohGNpw18qJQ2C6y2eZvzgZ3aFzRK5RHrIGos52lbPi8FwJR5yiyGZEMYaN0s1I8r-SzUZGst8w-Fmc2Z5D1mUouBJd9Z4/s1600/324228_10150539151139927_2084180905_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgCOJixCbZsdwF_cX3MkjPnN6HSVZR7wCT1xBGFr5rKYcTQ5TohGNpw18qJQ2C6y2eZvzgZ3aFzRK5RHrIGos52lbPi8FwJR5yiyGZEMYaN0s1I8r-SzUZGst8w-Fmc2Z5D1mUouBJd9Z4/s400/324228_10150539151139927_2084180905_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ms.K and the Crayfish--I don't know which is more scared of the other, Karen or the crayfish hehe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiltIADIkPHUK4YPAnfidLJTOEREoAlC_57ZRK04PzWPpLmWlDs2juo1JtcAs0djmvuhwADGg5X-Cc7Kit5jM-w9OV-s7iTs52jowiHxKHaoHLVFdYI5rbx_yOg334B96yTaQDK36DAJodt/s1600/327287_10150539124009927_799474926_8328174_278279857_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiltIADIkPHUK4YPAnfidLJTOEREoAlC_57ZRK04PzWPpLmWlDs2juo1JtcAs0djmvuhwADGg5X-Cc7Kit5jM-w9OV-s7iTs52jowiHxKHaoHLVFdYI5rbx_yOg334B96yTaQDK36DAJodt/s400/327287_10150539124009927_799474926_8328174_278279857_o.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fishy, fishy, fishies where are you?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieF1m4FusOX2TtE5Abbsl57tpnq6FcGAGLX58VguC9hsQC1_8zQFE1oDy_-RsHTLGjP2BfUb_6m02H4-S3D_xL1TzTZzqVSXJaixZ1wuOe_EgHGZarXk5ryMm_ySG-W6J0olGsuxAZukmb/s1600/166964_10150539119924927_799474926_8328154_523566044_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieF1m4FusOX2TtE5Abbsl57tpnq6FcGAGLX58VguC9hsQC1_8zQFE1oDy_-RsHTLGjP2BfUb_6m02H4-S3D_xL1TzTZzqVSXJaixZ1wuOe_EgHGZarXk5ryMm_ySG-W6J0olGsuxAZukmb/s400/166964_10150539119924927_799474926_8328154_523566044_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bringing out the inner mermaid in me =)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent;">Lheila and I decided to take a short dip to check out the underwater view of the lobster and crayfish pen. It was just a sneak preview but I was already amazed with the lobsters, crayfishes and schools of fishes underneath. So we decided to go for it and dive in the middle of fish sanctuary. The water was quite deep (~15ft) but very cool, refreshing and idyllic for snorkeling. Us, snorkeling enthusiasts, just discovered another source of adrenaline high =)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-z2wGYArEjF01wo7AdX3YrGSNI9_GM9sdyCEMsEqItOqG7rcVeToJfEfs7d77tq4BDrjnZoLY-ATxmbWXk1l7CxQRTs-7f-2OaAJer_hAQqZ9cIqda7piihjMNmW2pQzjPdECRKv6WMgE/s1600/329761_10150539152779927_799474926_8328245_79504458_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-z2wGYArEjF01wo7AdX3YrGSNI9_GM9sdyCEMsEqItOqG7rcVeToJfEfs7d77tq4BDrjnZoLY-ATxmbWXk1l7CxQRTs-7f-2OaAJer_hAQqZ9cIqda7piihjMNmW2pQzjPdECRKv6WMgE/s400/329761_10150539152779927_799474926_8328245_79504458_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Attorney na swimmer pa =)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh46aUgDoH2jT5D2ZqzT_0iGGvGBR5C7RW7wc_kQpkFDkzYCov2xK7xOkcml50H7AwWFrUdkyUh5H_HI_siGfXslIiCdgmyKkso8Jm2cv-WRFp0dlL-twfQITnMrVV29NX4Iu-JIz7N4Cf6/s1600/330447_10150539164224927_799474926_8328270_1709320466_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh46aUgDoH2jT5D2ZqzT_0iGGvGBR5C7RW7wc_kQpkFDkzYCov2xK7xOkcml50H7AwWFrUdkyUh5H_HI_siGfXslIiCdgmyKkso8Jm2cv-WRFp0dlL-twfQITnMrVV29NX4Iu-JIz7N4Cf6/s400/330447_10150539164224927_799474926_8328270_1709320466_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sirens: Karen, Lhei and I</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78EgZuKOCVfJfoGDFFebgCspn0uYETo1x9zUh5fSleXtAdGBuBGEcfFEEs_CcnExx-IooqOBhtse8EyN_4TBnClDPVMELknjCtv7IQcqk2VdR4JvkB9BMF8VRwxpVpFQrpjUKyZDclFyL/s1600/412957_10150539165044927_799474926_8328271_986568491_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78EgZuKOCVfJfoGDFFebgCspn0uYETo1x9zUh5fSleXtAdGBuBGEcfFEEs_CcnExx-IooqOBhtse8EyN_4TBnClDPVMELknjCtv7IQcqk2VdR4JvkB9BMF8VRwxpVpFQrpjUKyZDclFyL/s400/412957_10150539165044927_799474926_8328271_986568491_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing can keep us from the water!!! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent;">Anyways, after several minutes with the fish schools, we decided to head back to the boat lest we get left behind by the van going back home. The caretakers do not charge any entrance fees, actually. But donations for the upkeep of the fish sanctuary are highly appreciated. After all, they are doing a fine job in breeding fish and other marine animals.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;">Finally, after saying our goodbye's and thank you's to the caretakers of the DENR guesthouse, where we parked our tour vehicle, we headed to Irosin, Sorsogon--a quick detour before going back to Sorsogon City. We decided to cap our trip with a quick soak in the nearby hot spring in Irosin, the same is just at the foot of the feisty Mount Bulusan whose imposing peaks were towering above us (as if challenging me to climb it on my next trip hehe, just you wait and see!). </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oOMnJ5xY6xccE-_2xqu3v_mmL0qSK6rihCqHntPu1OfViraneYjoZwcZD_4G5_vrg5T98FbXl0AqdxCVy0bios3FiaPsp1Z8By2Wu7U-dUpWz8vjLURfQ0w40s2FWnZFPxD2VNrZTljT/s1600/414621_10150539167699927_1078857695_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oOMnJ5xY6xccE-_2xqu3v_mmL0qSK6rihCqHntPu1OfViraneYjoZwcZD_4G5_vrg5T98FbXl0AqdxCVy0bios3FiaPsp1Z8By2Wu7U-dUpWz8vjLURfQ0w40s2FWnZFPxD2VNrZTljT/s400/414621_10150539167699927_1078857695_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot spa for the girls (and four boys) @ San Mateo, San Benon Hot Spring, Irosin, Sorsogon </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a quick dip on the soothing pool of warm-to-semi-hot waters of San Mateo hot spring, we all rinsed, get dressed and headed back to Sorsogon City where Chris' dad was waiting with another rounds of snacks! Grabe na tlaga! Mga lamon pips na kami and it was just for free, so super thanks to Chris' and Lheila's dads. I guess this is where our Matnog cum Irosin trip ends. All good things must come to an end indeed, and personally for me, there was a slight ache (naks!) to part ways with my travel friends. I just wish that they, too, hope that there will be a repeat of this =)<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><b><u>ITINERARY</u></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">Our <b>itinerary</b> was as follows:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">Saturday:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">5PM -- Leave for Legazpi City from Naga City via a van at Naga City Van Terminal; fare was P210</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">7PM -- arrival in Legazpi. Our plan was to spend the night at Lheila's parents' house. We had dinner, talks, etc, then sleep...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">Sunday:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">5AM -- Wake up time; prepare, etc.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">7AM -- Left Legazpi for Sorsogon City</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">9 AM -- Arrived at Sorsogon (picked up Adolf)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">11 AM-- Arrival in Matnog (finally!)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">11:30 -- Start of Island-hopping =)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">12 NN -- Subic Island Liit; Lunch, Swim, Fun</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">2 PM -- To Juag Fish Sanctuary</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">2:30 - 3:30 PM -- Juag Fish Sanctuary</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">4:00PM -- Matnog Port</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">4:30PM -- Depart for Mapaso Hot Spring in San Benon, Irosin</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">5:00PM--Mapaso Hotspring</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">5:30PM--Back to Sorsogon City, then to Naga City</span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><b><u>TRIP SUMMARY</u></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;">If you are from Manila:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;">1) Ride a bus going to Sorsogon City. Fare ranges from 500 to 1000+ depending on the kind of bus. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;">Or book a flight to Legazpi City. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;">Then from Legazpi airport, ride a jeep to Daraga van terminal and then a van to Sorsogon City. The earlier the booking the cheaper.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;">2) In Sorsogon, look for jeeps going to Matnog. The jeep terminal is just located in the city center, you may just ask around for directions.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;">3) Upon arrival in Matnog (trip lasts around two hours), rent a boat. My contact there is Kuya Alex (09183045437). Rental rate is usually P1500 for a whole day of island-hopping covering three islands.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span></div>Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-56191490965177484812012-03-17T23:12:00.000+08:002012-06-04T00:03:55.631+08:00SUBIC ISLAND: The Off the Beaten Path Wonder of Matnog, Sorsogon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLLxzz7rayuWyM7IftdhMLU0XocAhheY4cYlGz8pJBL463CuXodiBplhHuf8w_MBrHP_bEGdx8MPa3P4nt4wBap7JGclh-oQsn8CYQOjTPNwlO7JFbl4N1MJknnl0NNzWG9OGFOn4lN97/s1600/DSCN1095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLLxzz7rayuWyM7IftdhMLU0XocAhheY4cYlGz8pJBL463CuXodiBplhHuf8w_MBrHP_bEGdx8MPa3P4nt4wBap7JGclh-oQsn8CYQOjTPNwlO7JFbl4N1MJknnl0NNzWG9OGFOn4lN97/s400/DSCN1095.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Marvelous Subic Island of Matnog, Sorsogon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Matnog--A Hidden Beauty</u></b><br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">The province of </span><b style="text-align: justify;">Sorsogon</b><span style="text-align: justify;"> in the Bicol Region has already become part of the Pinoy traveler's lingo.There's Donsol's whalesharks and Mt. Bulusan's famed crater lake, as well as </span><a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/search/label/paguriran" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Paguriran Island</span></a><span style="text-align: justify;">'s whitesand beach and lagoon. Yet, there is more, and I'm referring to </span><b style="text-align: justify;">Subic Island</b><span style="text-align: justify;"> and </span><b style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/05/juag-fish-sanctuary-off-beaten-path.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Juag Fish Sanctuary</span></a></b><span style="text-align: justify;"> in </span><b style="text-align: justify;">Matnog</b><span style="text-align: justify;">, Sorsogon.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/30/Ph_locator_region_5.png/250px-Ph_locator_region_5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/30/Ph_locator_region_5.png/250px-Ph_locator_region_5.png" width="217" /></a><a href="http://texaninthephilippines.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Province-Catanduanes-Bicol-Region-Map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://texaninthephilippines.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Province-Catanduanes-Bicol-Region-Map.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b style="text-align: justify;">Matnog, Sorsogon</b><span style="text-align: justify;"> lies on the southern-most tip of the Luzon Island and is the venue of a bustling port vital for being the gateway between the islands of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Of late, however, Matnog started to create a splash-- albeit a relatively small one --in the tourism scene due to its beautiful, serene and paradisaical white sand beaches. </span><strong style="text-align: justify;">Subic Island Liit</strong><span style="text-align: justify;"> and </span><strong style="text-align: justify;">Subic Island Daku</strong><span style="text-align: justify;"> are two of these.I first read about Subic Island over a year ago and was pleasantly surprised to know that very few people have heard of or know about it. Hence, when opportunity knocked, I immediately decided to pay a visit along with a number of fun and adventurous friends.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Plan-Itinerary</u></b><br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">I was so itching for a low-budget travel last January and coincidentally, my friend Atty.Lheila Mendoza was also pining for a </span><i style="text-align: justify;">tipid biyahe,</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> but all the piso-fare seats have already been sold out. I suggested Matnog and she instantly she said yes. We concluded that our budget should not go beyond </span><b style="text-align: justify;">P1500</b><span style="text-align: justify;">. In no time, we had Chris, Kends, Trina, Karen, Adolf, Dassel, Daday and Gelo to go with us too.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4RH8illZBeDY9sXldt_l64GGQt-fJn5VWSscPx7FhJZ8_TYwtmTqA3AlbB2iDnoOpXEeAsv5ceOvVe3qcd2lNi3rW5CX0R82rWVG4mRGW-_DEeaFW566OBI8miHOG8Tr4kHGoP_tgqBd/s1600/DSCN1215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4RH8illZBeDY9sXldt_l64GGQt-fJn5VWSscPx7FhJZ8_TYwtmTqA3AlbB2iDnoOpXEeAsv5ceOvVe3qcd2lNi3rW5CX0R82rWVG4mRGW-_DEeaFW566OBI8miHOG8Tr4kHGoP_tgqBd/s400/DSCN1215.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The Roadtrip Tropa @ the DENR Guesthouse in Matnog</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our <b>itinerary</b> was as follows:<br />
Saturday:<br />
5PM -- Leave for Legazpi City from Naga City via a van at Naga City Van Terminal; fare was P210<br />
7PM -- arrival in Legazpi. Our plan was to spend the night at Lheila's parents' house. We had dinner, talks, etc, then sleep...<br />
<br />
Sunday:<br />
5AM -- Wake up time; prepare, etc.<br />
7AM -- Left Legazpi for Sorsogon City<br />
9 AM -- Arrived at Sorsogon (picked up Adolf)<br />
11 AM-- Arrival in Matnog (finally!)<br />
11:30 -- Start of Island-hopping =)<br />
12 NN -- Subic Island Liit; Lunch, Swim, Fun<br />
2 PM -- To Juag Fish Sanctuary<br />
2:30 - 3:30 PM -- Juag Fish Sanctuary<br />
4:00PM -- Matnog Port<br />
4:30PM -- Depart for Mapaso Hot Spring in San Benon, Irosin<br />
5:00PM--Mapaso Hotspring<br />
5:30PM--Back to Sorsogon City, then to Naga City<br />
<br />
<b><u>The Trip</u></b><br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">The group met on Sunday afternoon, travelled to Legazpi City from Naga City via van (fare is P210), and spent the night at the Mendoza's residence in Legazpi City. Lheila's mom was very generous to have allowed us--me, Kends and Chris--to sleep at their house. What is more, Lhei's parents even volunteered their vehicle for our mini get-away :) The following morning, we all woke up early, ate breakfast, and prepared for the trip. By 7AM, we were off to Sorsogon.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLLxzz7rayuWyM7IftdhMLU0XocAhheY4cYlGz8pJBL463CuXodiBplhHuf8w_MBrHP_bEGdx8MPa3P4nt4wBap7JGclh-oQsn8CYQOjTPNwlO7JFbl4N1MJknnl0NNzWG9OGFOn4lN97/s1600/DSCN1095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was a long four-hour ride. From Legazpi, we first had to go to Sorsogon City, and from the city, we drove another 50+ kilometers to Matnog. For those who will be commuting, ride a van in Daraga--a town next to Legazpi, which you can reach by jeep--going to Sorsogon (fare is P85) and from Sorsogon City, ride again a jeep going to Matnog (fare is P90). The jeep will drop you off just several meters away from the port complex.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGwlOXzvbAWg_BsDWWKtjPzlTyN1m03-fLf2ntcnSr-UvBW1fohGKQhNQLrPjnPeHw2FDjdRjc4mWojaz505JgNqHp5vQRvWUEcA7DQzmGlMJ_Px0vFhlZzJ9naDqlD12edHBO-kb8G1W/s1600/407019_2891598605589_1128970046_3032446_920534052_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGwlOXzvbAWg_BsDWWKtjPzlTyN1m03-fLf2ntcnSr-UvBW1fohGKQhNQLrPjnPeHw2FDjdRjc4mWojaz505JgNqHp5vQRvWUEcA7DQzmGlMJ_Px0vFhlZzJ9naDqlD12edHBO-kb8G1W/s400/407019_2891598605589_1128970046_3032446_920534052_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Definitely looking forward to travel with these guys again =)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrF21qKPz8Gam1lwTE8WOt4wA4-Za0kAl8O1xdl-M4h3lEjYQ3khhrIdkT03G_fce_FMh8_7ZcBgMctjOPSTglwCmduxEvDz8tylYbjoHq85oAYwP23eTCxZ_ClkljK33hja1mncL8BrrF/s1600/407935_323947434294660_2143685836_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrF21qKPz8Gam1lwTE8WOt4wA4-Za0kAl8O1xdl-M4h3lEjYQ3khhrIdkT03G_fce_FMh8_7ZcBgMctjOPSTglwCmduxEvDz8tylYbjoHq85oAYwP23eTCxZ_ClkljK33hja1mncL8BrrF/s400/407935_323947434294660_2143685836_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The author with her friends, Kends and Trins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That is not the end of it though. From the Matnog Port we still had to ride a boat to reach our target destinations--<b>Subic Island</b> and <b>Juag Fish Sanctuary</b>. The tourism office of Matnog can assist tourists in getting a rented boa. On the other hand, there are several boat owners who are already waiting for tourists near the municipal hall and port and are willing to negotiate. The last time I asked, boat rental costs P1500 for a whole day trip that covers three islands.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXoPFX-Y53HUVl_oFb9pXVq5gcVrGjtXt5j5PNrdyhM0CEMc8Lmd-wJN2RvcdSrsA7TW0SOqbFQEbwChTM83phv7ttpmZ2EJxyKd2_MFyFqVhjh9yxkPw7u-hyGQeVhOR3QuNrIAzT2VO/s1600/DSCN1145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXoPFX-Y53HUVl_oFb9pXVq5gcVrGjtXt5j5PNrdyhM0CEMc8Lmd-wJN2RvcdSrsA7TW0SOqbFQEbwChTM83phv7ttpmZ2EJxyKd2_MFyFqVhjh9yxkPw7u-hyGQeVhOR3QuNrIAzT2VO/s400/DSCN1145.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Boat Ride<br />
<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsFTupX_TJJsH18yXDjgFxcy-ekBzO-vhzyUihBbuKVAEps6uEsRpYfNydqw5nE8rQPdj2524wqu6riuVaA2e0NqgH6fHKqDOCJNji-GForTOaQ66T-qXvAkjbCW-gXh3UBz9DglveFOzp/s1600/DSCN1094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsFTupX_TJJsH18yXDjgFxcy-ekBzO-vhzyUihBbuKVAEps6uEsRpYfNydqw5nE8rQPdj2524wqu6riuVaA2e0NqgH6fHKqDOCJNji-GForTOaQ66T-qXvAkjbCW-gXh3UBz9DglveFOzp/s400/DSCN1094.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Sweet Escape: We Had Subic Island for Ourselves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="text-align: justify;">Chris' dad, who is the PENRO of Sorsogon, arranged a rented boat for us and also took care of our lunch, which was really beyond our expectations. Hence, when we arrived in Matnog everything we needed were all taken cared of: there was a boat waiting to take us to the Islands and a sumptuous meal waiting to be devoured hehe. From Brgy. Tagban in Matnog, we were off to Subic Island (Liit) on an approx. 30-minute boat ride. Lheila's dad is also the Regional Technical Director of the DENR Region V, so the people who helped organize our island-hopping trip were very fond of her and made sure that we were comfortable and safe =)</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b><br />
<b><u>Subic Island</u></b><br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1f-7mL8Wn4Zv8PsiDeKI8jdPlxbVdTBWFqdaA_oPRiDGeY1P8XkIE6mPcKhLtgv0QCNVfvHamhskse0QP3KxeeAYtMcIUhbPkWh5s_1lowvMh7SOFnpDjh-Qnic2PC2wO-1Ce_eIriqfJ/s1600/DSCN1096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1f-7mL8Wn4Zv8PsiDeKI8jdPlxbVdTBWFqdaA_oPRiDGeY1P8XkIE6mPcKhLtgv0QCNVfvHamhskse0QP3KxeeAYtMcIUhbPkWh5s_1lowvMh7SOFnpDjh-Qnic2PC2wO-1Ce_eIriqfJ/s400/DSCN1096.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's not just the view. It's also the peace and calm that I so heart.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuQ03tEC3Mjoo8x95BcMuplFWyAbAv6WpWEC337LThuTi6_XDTToHOcevs2dTBIIAjFq9COAEyLABNPt543WyEX45wp8dZPAiCvxQHr4EjY7zQ773wNqxaaUfiq0oagZf8t_8C58hlUtz/s1600/DSCN1099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuQ03tEC3Mjoo8x95BcMuplFWyAbAv6WpWEC337LThuTi6_XDTToHOcevs2dTBIIAjFq9COAEyLABNPt543WyEX45wp8dZPAiCvxQHr4EjY7zQ773wNqxaaUfiq0oagZf8t_8C58hlUtz/s400/DSCN1099.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Subic Island took my breath away when we arrived. The island is amazing. Subic Island is also known as La Playa Rosa because of the pinkish tinge of its fine white sand. The long drive, heat and boat ride were worth it. What is more, we have the island for ourselves. There were no crowds, bustling commercialism and expensive tourism establishments--only the beautiful sea, a small cottage, some free-range animals, coconut trees and of course, us. I am so lucky to have reached this beautiful place.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitov8xwQ_RbQZzUy-Kf7aLQ6R_2ggKMejRFXuLsxvuGpJ6_aSNGIwRBG_6vtmuelH9ERX9hhyUr2Bgrb89RY8gGE5sihoDLy7yuZP3f1ZNavajcxbgvotHInQ9G1q2Z-5dU-RF3meoB6FG/s1600/DSCN1097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitov8xwQ_RbQZzUy-Kf7aLQ6R_2ggKMejRFXuLsxvuGpJ6_aSNGIwRBG_6vtmuelH9ERX9hhyUr2Bgrb89RY8gGE5sihoDLy7yuZP3f1ZNavajcxbgvotHInQ9G1q2Z-5dU-RF3meoB6FG/s400/DSCN1097.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nature-loving Chris--capturing the amazing view</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaH7G-32BqMMi3qvfwZkKVzJ0WrvWRH7cdPfDvBcjkpiU1d4O1fBp4RZ3A_BLK_Z4-fXZmZ_sTkxzElpxMcLPZYDBlPcChuye39Vvs6K1zIN2oWVfnYHx8cmlIFCgNYvrWQFxCOsHc9khq/s1600/DSCN1101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaH7G-32BqMMi3qvfwZkKVzJ0WrvWRH7cdPfDvBcjkpiU1d4O1fBp4RZ3A_BLK_Z4-fXZmZ_sTkxzElpxMcLPZYDBlPcChuye39Vvs6K1zIN2oWVfnYHx8cmlIFCgNYvrWQFxCOsHc9khq/s400/DSCN1101.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kends, Trina and Lhei, chatting while waiting for our lunch to cook</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="text-align: justify;">After arrival,we settled down and had our foods prepared by the island caretakers. Our meal was comprised of </span><i style="text-align: justify;">ginutaang langka</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> (unripe jackfruit cooked in coconut milk) with crabs, boiled/steamed crabs (a real treat!), grilled </span><i style="text-align: justify;">liempo</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> (bacon) and grilled </span><i style="text-align: justify;">molmol</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> (parrot fish)--yummy! and lots of lots of rice. We ate as if we've been starved for a week hehe.</span><i style="text-align: justify;"> </i><br />
<i style="text-align: justify;"><br /></i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2ZYGPNBIYB4il0Zq2CbQqh1a8QYYO2Lb0M2g8AjwJsUrNwmovmg-MBW3qpB_WelM7ugfoAnskoYOHF13q11-V84QUMYO9JIG7mXteCff54DI6nznguYSJ5BtrxfNE-qPIhyphenhyphenLBwxCQXAC/s1600/DSCN1104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2ZYGPNBIYB4il0Zq2CbQqh1a8QYYO2Lb0M2g8AjwJsUrNwmovmg-MBW3qpB_WelM7ugfoAnskoYOHF13q11-V84QUMYO9JIG7mXteCff54DI6nznguYSJ5BtrxfNE-qPIhyphenhyphenLBwxCQXAC/s400/DSCN1104.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled Molmol (parrot fish) -- a really yummy , fatty fish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhakMyQ85Z4Twcdj8XvWC_iisSP26MG7Din38FOCbEMgqlX9Dr6TPEqUO5VnnnTuZ2KgXiL0WGJjqQ98orGm3uLXxyFTnodJLVSLTfvBj-EZBQkG5eK40nlV-Q0M5JV5YtX4ukJTLGEfIt_/s1600/DSCN1102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhakMyQ85Z4Twcdj8XvWC_iisSP26MG7Din38FOCbEMgqlX9Dr6TPEqUO5VnnnTuZ2KgXiL0WGJjqQ98orGm3uLXxyFTnodJLVSLTfvBj-EZBQkG5eK40nlV-Q0M5JV5YtX4ukJTLGEfIt_/s400/DSCN1102.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atty. Adolf, enjoying the gulay na langka (jackfruit) in gata</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmzjWpzkq5oKzB-iizRjznNdvswe6EB9FtF1vssadBVHonQiCHy1G_QHvsPxmKzanLKpMlXHTR58LN0zxE7ykofCf9DH3pXhD_g3Vq8AwvWsibBDi8gSq9b5VXp72HZ3Gc-Dmi60SR8FJo/s1600/DSCN1105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmzjWpzkq5oKzB-iizRjznNdvswe6EB9FtF1vssadBVHonQiCHy1G_QHvsPxmKzanLKpMlXHTR58LN0zxE7ykofCf9DH3pXhD_g3Vq8AwvWsibBDi8gSq9b5VXp72HZ3Gc-Dmi60SR8FJo/s400/DSCN1105.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crabs galore! These are just the left-overs hehe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkO8_cHPMXcD8la7kvpxYmRLcJkOYVEvCIWNFIo15oQKKf99HR32o7AToK8P1oIuAwRYCywK3WWx7f1cCdnQBsMJpHo4d-DBbKuaqmSmYTaiiJqh22vWNonZF97B6FZvCmwhV3GfHuJuiJ/s400/DSCN1106.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled Liempo--a favorite picnic staple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZYdPA3__qB7aKoqzs0bc2NfsQaW5l5zCiIsBmii5lpnKxgvVf9FGIcWHfq1MJrZ1utpPtIjTY4odrDcUIBpnIEP_6I2gC6BvfcEZcFhyB5eiXfCPsqNaTK8MYJ9Gti8oA7FbZpWOQkGi/s1600/DSCN1109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZYdPA3__qB7aKoqzs0bc2NfsQaW5l5zCiIsBmii5lpnKxgvVf9FGIcWHfq1MJrZ1utpPtIjTY4odrDcUIBpnIEP_6I2gC6BvfcEZcFhyB5eiXfCPsqNaTK8MYJ9Gti8oA7FbZpWOQkGi/s400/DSCN1109.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feasting on fresh young coconuts :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After our festive meal, it's swimming time =) Subic Island's waters is pretty deep so swimmers must be careful. The good thing is that the current was not very strong when we were there so we were able to snorkel and swim.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGYvoFhMUJZb1ch-HG8s4E0OQiMv7d4jKP0DBackgegWVhS8h5uhqzqo-xqK3hT0F6_XfFpfQcDqf-oPdU2yTBOsaZHLe52p31p3uWIyidNjF3kd0AqsJSeMIUoRXJwgzUmqunxwpiIVZ/s1600/DSCN1133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGYvoFhMUJZb1ch-HG8s4E0OQiMv7d4jKP0DBackgegWVhS8h5uhqzqo-xqK3hT0F6_XfFpfQcDqf-oPdU2yTBOsaZHLe52p31p3uWIyidNjF3kd0AqsJSeMIUoRXJwgzUmqunxwpiIVZ/s400/DSCN1133.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tyCDW82TSed8ntlg7gDnS3zDjFh3hhMGMfHCrmNelL9-Zd05Srli5dH7gDtkJOEB2OsbQZBBiK20ziEB20cDzb69ensfWn7CPscO6a5bvl2UL8NKelCQsIdQVRcXXKssNEF6rKOaH4li/s1600/DSCN1134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tyCDW82TSed8ntlg7gDnS3zDjFh3hhMGMfHCrmNelL9-Zd05Srli5dH7gDtkJOEB2OsbQZBBiK20ziEB20cDzb69ensfWn7CPscO6a5bvl2UL8NKelCQsIdQVRcXXKssNEF6rKOaH4li/s400/DSCN1134.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
More than an hour in the water and our beach craving was satisfied. We were ready to move on to our next destination--the <span style="color: blue;"><b><a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/05/juag-fish-sanctuary-off-beaten-path.html" target="_blank">Juag Fish Sanctuary</a></b>,</span> which I will talk about in my <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/05/juag-fish-sanctuary-off-beaten-path.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">next post</span></a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For a budget biyahera like me, our Matnog adventure is a vacation bliss -- we had an uber time, visited an off-the-beaten-path beach paradise, got the chance to swim again and enjoyed fresh and delicious foods :) All these for a very minimal budget! I'm with the best travel friends and we were able to pull it off even with small budget and little planning. Indeed, some things are better when done spontaneously =) Anyhoo, how our trip turned out will not be the same without the help of Chris' dad and Lheila's parents. A really big, big thanks to them.This is it for now, but I'll be posting next about <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/05/juag-fish-sanctuary-off-beaten-path.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Juag Fish Sanctuary</span></a>, which is a wonderful continuation of our Matnog trip :) FIN.<br />
<br />
<b><u>TRIP SUMMARY</u></b><br />
<br />
If you are from Manila:<br />
<br />
1) Ride a bus going to Sorsogon City. Fare ranges from 500 to 1000+ depending on the kind of bus. Or book a flight to Legazpi City. Then from Legazpi airport, ride a jeep to Daraga van terminal and then a van to Sorsogon City. The earlier the booking the cheaper.<br />
<br />
2) In Sorsogon, look for jeeps going to Matnog. The jeep terminal is just located in the city center, you may just ask around for directions.<br />
<br />
3) Upon arrival in Matnog (trip lasts around two hours), rent a boat. My contact there is Kuya Alex (09183045437). Rental rate is usually P1500 for a whole day of island-hopping covering three islands.<br />
<br />
<b><br /></b></div>Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-26104102971234663202012-02-08T01:42:00.001+08:002012-03-10T07:22:25.969+08:00MOUNT MACULOT: The Day Hike Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtofaGEglyaGKVNeXWr2Q0VXITWsUJSd3gkSi5VCx5_aVzpnMNph_o2ClNQqj8kkKRTFy09Tv-lWiKrMGn3dHyVll2QYvDIKqMQ3T1t5g8NxMLi3ErCfbkyR2H7S8tLEWEUpUS3HSwB8z7/s1600/Photo0047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtofaGEglyaGKVNeXWr2Q0VXITWsUJSd3gkSi5VCx5_aVzpnMNph_o2ClNQqj8kkKRTFy09Tv-lWiKrMGn3dHyVll2QYvDIKqMQ3T1t5g8NxMLi3ErCfbkyR2H7S8tLEWEUpUS3HSwB8z7/s400/Photo0047.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Scenic Taal Lake: View from the Rockies Summit, Mount Maculot </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b><i>The Plan</i></b><br />
<br />
Midway our review for the Bar Exam last year, my housemates--Chris and Kends--and yours truly, started fantasizing about a <b>hiking</b> getaway. Perhaps we were under a lot of stress that time that the thought of climbing a rain forest--with all the <i>limatik</i>, muddy trail, and scary steep slope--seemed so relaxing =) It was Chris who came up with the idea, as he used to hike in Mount Isarog (Camarines Sur) way back his college days. Naturally, Kends and I also wanted to go! <i>Basta lakwatsa game kami,</i> with nary a care to the consequences that will ensue, haha...<br />
<br />
I suggested <b>Mount Maculot</b> in <b>Cuenca, Batangas</b>. Mount Maculot is located in the town of Cuenca, in the province of Batangas, which is around 76 kilometers or more than 2 hours away from Metro Manila. It has an elevation of 706+ meters above sea level. According to one mountaineer friend, Mount Maculot's level of difficultly is on level 2 on the scale of 1 to 9, 9 being the hardest.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDFnD3t-0AsjuaMBjfLR3mvI97VA98RczlUs3-dpC4FDnBmiBGVlSkb3EvrAm6hiy7FyPnNDI5mAk8z2I8POWKrvFXHKW7LqjQRjNzjSX5G3RCV6oLVGJBcgP97FC3tyuH1w4YpalUBsT/s1600/Photo0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDFnD3t-0AsjuaMBjfLR3mvI97VA98RczlUs3-dpC4FDnBmiBGVlSkb3EvrAm6hiy7FyPnNDI5mAk8z2I8POWKrvFXHKW7LqjQRjNzjSX5G3RCV6oLVGJBcgP97FC3tyuH1w4YpalUBsT/s400/Photo0023.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Review and Hiking Buddies: Kends and Chris</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After the bar exam, it was time to make our dream come true. However, we didn't have much money after all the bar exam expenses and had to make our trip really <i>tipid. </i>Thus, our budget was just <b>P500</b> =)<i> </i>which makes staying overnight in Cuenca out of the option. Our plan was to leave early from Quezon City (5AM); arrive early in Cuenca (8AM); start with the hike mid-morning (8-9AM); reach summit and Rockies at noon; and be back on lowlands before dark, then back to Quezon City.<br />
<br />
Here's the <b>ideal itinerary</b>:<br />
5:00 AM - ETD from Quezon City on a Lemery-bound bus<br />
8:00 AM - ETA at Cuenca<br />
8:30-9AM - Mount Maculot Jump-off point, start with the hike<br />
11:00 AM - Summit/Peak<br />
11-12 NN - Lunch and Rest<br />
12-1:00 PM - Rockies<br />
2:00 PM - Descent<br />
5:00 PM - Cuenca bayan<br />
<br />
However, the <b>actual itinerary </b>happened this way:<br />
7:00 AM - Left Quezon City (Chris suffered from migraine and had to recover for a while)<br />
10:00AM - Arrived at Cuenca, Batangas; Started with the hike right away<br />
12:00 NN - Summit<br />
12-1:00PM - Lunch<br />
1-2:00PM - Hike to the Rockies<br />
2-2:40 PM - Rockies<br />
Before 3PM - Back to Summit (rest for a while, ate chocolates & cheetos) & descent<br />
4:30 PM - Back to the foot of the mountain :) Rest, drank softdrinks at a sari-sari store<br />
5:00 PM - Found a restaurant in Cuenca, ate pansit<br />
6:00 PM - To Lipa City, Batangas; back to Quezon City after<br />
<br />
<b><i>Departure-Arrival</i></b><br />
<br />
We left Quezon City at around 7AM, via a Jam Liner <b>bus</b> headed to <b>Lemery</b>, Batangas. Fare was <b>P150</b>. We told the conductor to drop us off at Cuenca, or specifically, at Cuenca near the jump-off site to Mount Maculot. Had there been no Lemery-bound bus, our alternative plan was to go to Lipa; then from Lipa, ride a jeep to Cuenca. We arrived at Cuenca on or before 10AM. As instructed, the bus driver dropped us off where hikers to Mt. Maculot are usually known to get-off. There, <b>tricycles</b> are already waiting so we rode one on the way to the actual jump-off site. Fare was P30 per head.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh89azLaz9yRSlC_gpa1mrrUipNa5N_vqzfNN0_G9D4HTw1S49JnZ4kbP_Uri-Aj4Pb0C7i_JpXBq9qagh98SyenkXZf6K1KwiTEUgngTwy2dOiXYZkY6C3f5QWgG_a0SczMvGhQEHVzYEj/s1600/Photo0024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh89azLaz9yRSlC_gpa1mrrUipNa5N_vqzfNN0_G9D4HTw1S49JnZ4kbP_Uri-Aj4Pb0C7i_JpXBq9qagh98SyenkXZf6K1KwiTEUgngTwy2dOiXYZkY6C3f5QWgG_a0SczMvGhQEHVzYEj/s400/Photo0024.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Easy Part of the Trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><i>Hike Proper</i></b><br />
<br />
We started the hike at around P10am. There were other groups of hikers too. The trail at the start was relatively easy. But then as we progressed, the hardship also progressed hehe! I do like hiking as far as I can remember. I used to hike in Mount Makiling when I was in college. During weekends, my friends and I would hike to Mudspring or Flatrocks and then before graduation, we finally reached Peak 2. But I haven't practiced for years, so I sort of forgot the skills and it was a struggle. But still, it was OK. Tolerable. As the saying goes, "no pain, no gain".<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuTedIW59tYdDzM7ebs7cfYToTKBH7eptzWMTmGMSiA_mHYQiN3-j1gC7hUjNgcSEZn-gtngX3n6VdDNxIYzRT3zEx0nfv9Hg3xnUEZ0tsgy3i7LI6wH03dEm8IBsTxBsKl5j3xN-d6o6/s1600/Photo0029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuTedIW59tYdDzM7ebs7cfYToTKBH7eptzWMTmGMSiA_mHYQiN3-j1gC7hUjNgcSEZn-gtngX3n6VdDNxIYzRT3zEx0nfv9Hg3xnUEZ0tsgy3i7LI6wH03dEm8IBsTxBsKl5j3xN-d6o6/s400/Photo0029.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Definitely Steel Magnolias!<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwEdZSDMRuhsBLXdIvZAKDEhXXkP5M4C7EPgzmAy7Eflob153YNpga1hYcnORQQCF9qcap0rC_5nlOlOJU3ftOISl7t3FBYSgMeslZfLELu_HHtTc2C8irchjTW74DBl_dq70qYbrQVwdr/s1600/Photo0028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwEdZSDMRuhsBLXdIvZAKDEhXXkP5M4C7EPgzmAy7Eflob153YNpga1hYcnORQQCF9qcap0rC_5nlOlOJU3ftOISl7t3FBYSgMeslZfLELu_HHtTc2C8irchjTW74DBl_dq70qYbrQVwdr/s320/Photo0028.jpg" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Real Boyscout! Tunay na Maasahan </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Kends and I are hardly what you'd call damsels in distress. Independent and strong--that's what we are. But that time, we were really in distress! Haha! Poor Chris, had to act as a hiking guide and first aid nurse all at once -- constantly checking if we're OK, or if we need assistance, and making sure that none of us fall off a cliff, fall on our ass*s, break a bone or other similar missteps. Chris is the real deal when it comes to nature-loving--he's an avid environmentalist (and totally strict when it comes to waste segregation!=P) and also an experienced hiker. Without Chris, I bet we'd be poor lost souls back there.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYtN8jkdkiazxAdEM_WT31a3cEyn1wD9RfGT7gZO7DyaUyN8ZKtYzeum8B_cVeIP5w2IdcPY5h9CjCPaHmEthQytEeEvu9xdfE8toA0mWU5e_EUH2403cCFeHhwmVrX5vGuPQxSH-BVlI/s1600/Photo0034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYtN8jkdkiazxAdEM_WT31a3cEyn1wD9RfGT7gZO7DyaUyN8ZKtYzeum8B_cVeIP5w2IdcPY5h9CjCPaHmEthQytEeEvu9xdfE8toA0mWU5e_EUH2403cCFeHhwmVrX5vGuPQxSH-BVlI/s400/Photo0034.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2OEF2Gl5gjGAIxs4kvUGkXRNzDWX298W8mxy2aUc9zuLM1VFhtPISLpFGBCIki2AuVKbgwNQ4apj1xG6PrjBRFHQs_I8ic3dhKS10SfBKxCqjxErLkTHItnPUpwv2XkJw9DtPV5C7RNx9/s1600/Photo0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2OEF2Gl5gjGAIxs4kvUGkXRNzDWX298W8mxy2aUc9zuLM1VFhtPISLpFGBCIki2AuVKbgwNQ4apj1xG6PrjBRFHQs_I8ic3dhKS10SfBKxCqjxErLkTHItnPUpwv2XkJw9DtPV5C7RNx9/s400/Photo0035.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Lunch of Pork Tocino and Rice. It's not the food but the people you're eating with :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><i>Summit-Rockies</i></b><br />
<br />
We reached the summit at around 12noon. Gosh, the hike on the way up seemed to go on forever that when we finally arrived, I felt so relieved and happy. Since we didn't have time to prepare, all that Kends and I were able to cook were <i>tocino </i>and rice. Haha, tocino forever! We dig in nonetheless, <i>nakakapagod kayang maghike</i>! Then after resting for a while and talking to some of the hikers, we decided to go for the <b>Rockies.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGIa-zdcbq3Zmu2iyFvArZ5qySH4yNd6BjC7MOqk2PV8NVKBrsDyJtmqnpUWTnm5iZHBtL3MVgnsR1iQqCfaoLA1Ap75Ndo80OZKz7Ytym1MFTSwf8DtTpE_cHuHggPHo40WTMSe_Gza3/s1600/Photo0038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGIa-zdcbq3Zmu2iyFvArZ5qySH4yNd6BjC7MOqk2PV8NVKBrsDyJtmqnpUWTnm5iZHBtL3MVgnsR1iQqCfaoLA1Ap75Ndo80OZKz7Ytym1MFTSwf8DtTpE_cHuHggPHo40WTMSe_Gza3/s400/Photo0038.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the Way to the Rockies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUBilfs6i4HYdijaret_b-yZYl0sjyhSo5fjKpehrL8WtLcUIYh6aEhe30suNsTrCmRho9lOHAEvA2eGS8613cZkx0ciDmIzCnrgrblMyhOmX2vxVt7cLuHyRW3jCfbmKkGBwS_Sb40zdx/s1600/Photo0039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUBilfs6i4HYdijaret_b-yZYl0sjyhSo5fjKpehrL8WtLcUIYh6aEhe30suNsTrCmRho9lOHAEvA2eGS8613cZkx0ciDmIzCnrgrblMyhOmX2vxVt7cLuHyRW3jCfbmKkGBwS_Sb40zdx/s400/Photo0039.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnO3f76llnc7YLICkCIjRw8ADIbAWNYhPQqw_AosWaMpUvBGeCJUMZoBQ-KDDzoyDhCUEiZq3GjNnNGE3DjIW4EabSWv6MvBHWvcojr0N3mxGr39Lw8nFuqPw9et3maOCjZ2Z0j4StAjiv/s1600/Photo0037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnO3f76llnc7YLICkCIjRw8ADIbAWNYhPQqw_AosWaMpUvBGeCJUMZoBQ-KDDzoyDhCUEiZq3GjNnNGE3DjIW4EabSWv6MvBHWvcojr0N3mxGr39Lw8nFuqPw9et3maOCjZ2Z0j4StAjiv/s400/Photo0037.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The <b>Rockies</b> is like the icing on the cake, or rather, the crispy <i>balat</i> on a <i>lechon. </i>Any hike to Mt. Maculot will not be complete without going all the way to the Rockies. In fact, Mount Maculot is famous for its Rockies. Photographers head there for the view and daredevil hikers, for the adrenaline rush. We headed there out of curiosity haha. We should have also dropped by at the <b>grotto, </b>but time (and energy) constraints prevented us. <i>'Di na kaya ng powers! </i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg02Im3aQnb-CZsVjDGPkFXgmm0yVqv8vbO9i-SQ7cCyjTc2k4Z8lDPgRXjN0ksqkcfFeDAvMoxeSVCBicBoqUdt7FGhA_dobHiKBP6VE1mRz_wRb5g4sm_ztzaHU_VjB4JbRtmq6xB90z/s1600/Photo0042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg02Im3aQnb-CZsVjDGPkFXgmm0yVqv8vbO9i-SQ7cCyjTc2k4Z8lDPgRXjN0ksqkcfFeDAvMoxeSVCBicBoqUdt7FGhA_dobHiKBP6VE1mRz_wRb5g4sm_ztzaHU_VjB4JbRtmq6xB90z/s400/Photo0042.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2z7mGNS7_nZEY4NGSoO4buz1n3NVBiq4nvbPyT1vsR497TxqQq9KSbWAb81iDXB_8M-epZrl4EueDZPhdL-QO47kQ0xHA9nzqEGWKuSwZHghzNU6gZNZMm1_9FJx1wWGyY9DjGH2KwrB_/s1600/Photo0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2z7mGNS7_nZEY4NGSoO4buz1n3NVBiq4nvbPyT1vsR497TxqQq9KSbWAb81iDXB_8M-epZrl4EueDZPhdL-QO47kQ0xHA9nzqEGWKuSwZHghzNU6gZNZMm1_9FJx1wWGyY9DjGH2KwrB_/s400/Photo0036.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKI-sYrJL1L8nIeZha6GKaa4eAVoBdlOVGw62t312y_FUcsSivnt4yfHqlgVmygWoXMUo8Hda_L04t4uLmCzMRr5CGvpBTLzF8YUySNCCXqs0m6cHnRDR6wo6eKRFoFGNj5XwAyu98c3BL/s1600/Photo0044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKI-sYrJL1L8nIeZha6GKaa4eAVoBdlOVGw62t312y_FUcsSivnt4yfHqlgVmygWoXMUo8Hda_L04t4uLmCzMRr5CGvpBTLzF8YUySNCCXqs0m6cHnRDR6wo6eKRFoFGNj5XwAyu98c3BL/s400/Photo0044.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsexgNPGn0W4qQGRWUzG8jtE6aR_bpEvWjbJgOX0qGKoTVxMez1KrBJ2ltotvxmSkeJpZyBw5LKmkbqq5Iky2Gb0b1cV4-32V7osJKo87X1fL8ycMh6JgdiBLs0RNPaTbb-n6X8JDqmKNb/s1600/Photo0041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsexgNPGn0W4qQGRWUzG8jtE6aR_bpEvWjbJgOX0qGKoTVxMez1KrBJ2ltotvxmSkeJpZyBw5LKmkbqq5Iky2Gb0b1cV4-32V7osJKo87X1fL8ycMh6JgdiBLs0RNPaTbb-n6X8JDqmKNb/s400/Photo0041.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i><br />
For mountain climbing newbies like us, Mount Maculot's Rockies looked almost impossible at first glance. We had to go down first from the summit, then go up again! Kends and I were clearly intimidated, but of course we would not let each other give up. We made it through the bar review, then through the bar exam together. We are comrades in battle (naks!). So we also have to make it to the Rockies together. Besides, Chris was a real angel, so patient with all our shrieks and constantly helping us to the extent of even lifting us up the large rocks until finally, we made it to the top. In retrospect, it was not really that excruciatingly difficult. Difficult but not impossible :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3YtpQOpU78EXf2nd7G5A3csQ4fi8P5ZDe47LFtchsdZ-WhPHFH1koStInJt8SIsVPjHwcf7rj5ocO4p-gC0oDpfO4YfNWZY2fDnRPHAFTqkTmd66VtRWhNNUzba1cJ9_oo9aPmEAIaUh/s1600/Photo0043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3YtpQOpU78EXf2nd7G5A3csQ4fi8P5ZDe47LFtchsdZ-WhPHFH1koStInJt8SIsVPjHwcf7rj5ocO4p-gC0oDpfO4YfNWZY2fDnRPHAFTqkTmd66VtRWhNNUzba1cJ9_oo9aPmEAIaUh/s400/Photo0043.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9EKboYBFYedgU4ddeAhp64Sa2pGVtTrhtILduL9GeoJRCPwpKzUfItNvio-a2iqRWeGH2vzIwxsfSrk9z6qIO3x90pHmyLfN-ALtMdA9LHd3l0Icu6Bptgy9dK96bIKxO-qTzM4OgsEWw/s1600/Photo0049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9EKboYBFYedgU4ddeAhp64Sa2pGVtTrhtILduL9GeoJRCPwpKzUfItNvio-a2iqRWeGH2vzIwxsfSrk9z6qIO3x90pHmyLfN-ALtMdA9LHd3l0Icu6Bptgy9dK96bIKxO-qTzM4OgsEWw/s400/Photo0049.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjej__8nbQ0LrU7OApbbAZemrR1yD67QQLPtRxkprXL8g8unE20oHly3251rmxHTNU4r3RGSbocwb0Mnw6Nrt4UQTbjbAhAsjdt9GpQkJy-vzLtU6sNagnIxpCZySsrTVCEC-EIB7S0fyRG/s1600/Photo0050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjej__8nbQ0LrU7OApbbAZemrR1yD67QQLPtRxkprXL8g8unE20oHly3251rmxHTNU4r3RGSbocwb0Mnw6Nrt4UQTbjbAhAsjdt9GpQkJy-vzLtU6sNagnIxpCZySsrTVCEC-EIB7S0fyRG/s400/Photo0050.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
As usual, the reward of a strenuous climb is priceless. I so love the feeling of being on top of a mountain (or on top of anything for that matter). There on top of Mount Maculot is the unobstructed view of <b>Taal Lake</b> and <b>Taal Volcano</b>. The view was so amazing, plus I love the mountain breeze on my hair and skin. Back during the review, we imagined a fresh change of scenery.Indeed, that mountain hike was perfect. I can't find the exact words, all I can say is that it was wonderful. Plus I'm with two of my dearest friends. That experience is definitely hard to forget. :)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghN3WKI9Cs6nSggozzkaLYFM4_IgN8WFJPr8nZefcJozKVc9i4cFepQJ6qEdyB4NW9lHQypsfIl6RkRpTSCXAZHU7zdoc5l190KtZrN2nviQA7GG64uStFinPoJIpYOnMH60_FJGB3TKqN/s1600/Photo0069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghN3WKI9Cs6nSggozzkaLYFM4_IgN8WFJPr8nZefcJozKVc9i4cFepQJ6qEdyB4NW9lHQypsfIl6RkRpTSCXAZHU7zdoc5l190KtZrN2nviQA7GG64uStFinPoJIpYOnMH60_FJGB3TKqN/s400/Photo0069.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Author, In Her Shining Rockies Moment :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjre0sl3T1F4DYvOGcdchfz7B0WDQHF50F-1fIMqPMFexqaH6kD5yXfvg4pn2x1RssVhdjLjd5blme725AsIYUGxJmaifsFUMRNGk_T6xNUflOkk3s7XvzhH4qMUnLofS5kQrQVR1_RpBy1/s1600/Photo0056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjre0sl3T1F4DYvOGcdchfz7B0WDQHF50F-1fIMqPMFexqaH6kD5yXfvg4pn2x1RssVhdjLjd5blme725AsIYUGxJmaifsFUMRNGk_T6xNUflOkk3s7XvzhH4qMUnLofS5kQrQVR1_RpBy1/s400/Photo0056.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfGF1021iAVKmoJhGxzC_QumtRYY6OB4V7qEQEW2V3EvxpvfS6yDIOALoESAQHd9fB3kQ9FTR19WY67rg-wQbUEQXQCK6aJMR8U_2eUo1q-NxsiCM5F5pmjKFzNdjjKn93AoPW03mR4fYK/s1600/Photo0048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfGF1021iAVKmoJhGxzC_QumtRYY6OB4V7qEQEW2V3EvxpvfS6yDIOALoESAQHd9fB3kQ9FTR19WY67rg-wQbUEQXQCK6aJMR8U_2eUo1q-NxsiCM5F5pmjKFzNdjjKn93AoPW03mR4fYK/s320/Photo0048.jpg" width="249" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiquFlvdwu3KOx8cpSJjDZc5nDWj97GYdNdmB42OtyL-_4x-8rnYn7sbkO0-xFM6h7gw4TKk2qlponpHUhpV3lXY5rwsmfungTlap-Qo6kqU1wLvXF9CtFqP5DWL1xq8Yf98ephDop2mNqF/s1600/Photo0066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiquFlvdwu3KOx8cpSJjDZc5nDWj97GYdNdmB42OtyL-_4x-8rnYn7sbkO0-xFM6h7gw4TKk2qlponpHUhpV3lXY5rwsmfungTlap-Qo6kqU1wLvXF9CtFqP5DWL1xq8Yf98ephDop2mNqF/s400/Photo0066.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9G3e4mGCUAICCxfWe0Dhq3l82FSPH1km-h5_27Bv6ob6W1MUi2Shn3cAUIq4fxJfhjKzji6x_A6RNs0DjdajsVY8i4_O9B0LgzIuIyBuls5WBbeqt1nBqmLyTOYnFtYff0I8nCtgm8Wze/s1600/Photo0067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9G3e4mGCUAICCxfWe0Dhq3l82FSPH1km-h5_27Bv6ob6W1MUi2Shn3cAUIq4fxJfhjKzji6x_A6RNs0DjdajsVY8i4_O9B0LgzIuIyBuls5WBbeqt1nBqmLyTOYnFtYff0I8nCtgm8Wze/s400/Photo0067.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORtsBSdksnOfKIMwXN69qDM_VbC3bYUZk_JYOXuDW2wlMjSSZg-_HrrejAtyLG-d4fk46PP__105VrqzHwMJCzxXu1FyjDfW5ddjp7P7uXnexjXfBoZJfW5AKqkcy57Kxodl3CrR2fnjS/s1600/Photo0063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORtsBSdksnOfKIMwXN69qDM_VbC3bYUZk_JYOXuDW2wlMjSSZg-_HrrejAtyLG-d4fk46PP__105VrqzHwMJCzxXu1FyjDfW5ddjp7P7uXnexjXfBoZJfW5AKqkcy57Kxodl3CrR2fnjS/s400/Photo0063.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>Descent - End of the Trip</i></b><br />
<br />
Anyways, we made it with just P500! Fare was only P300 for two-way bus ride from Quezon City to Cuenca then from Lipa back to Quezon City. By the way, the descent was way faster than the hike. Chris taught us some techniques on how to go down properly. He also taught us how to run downwards hehe. That part was really fun! And it sort of expedited the process that we reached lowlands at 4:30, so we still had time to eat pansit at a small restaurant in Cuenca. Then we rode a jeep to Lipa and from Lipa, a bus to Quezon City. So that's it. Our one-day fun hike with a P500 budget =)<br />
<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Budget:</b><br />
P300 - Bus fare from Manila (approx. P150 one-way)<br />
P 60 - Tricycle fare<br />
P 24 - Jeep from Cuenca to Lipa<br />
P100 - For miscellaneous necessities, like water, gatorade, chips, candies, etc :)<br />
<br />
<b>Some Tips:</b><br />
1) It would be best to hike with a pro or an experienced hiker. If possible get someone who knows the trail so as to prevent from being lost. For P500, you can hire the services of a guide in Mount Maculot. However, were were not able to do so due to our <i>tiiigghht</i> budget.<br />
<br />
2) The best time to hike is during summer or the sunny season. However, you may still opt to hike even during the rainy months--just like what we did--just make sure that the weather is good enough for comfort and safety purposes.<br />
<br />
3) Bring enough water or sports drink. Hiking is hard enough, so make sure that your body is always hydrated.<br />
<br />
4) Apply sunblock and insect repellent lotions. Also, wear appropriate clothing for protection. Wear some comfy hiking shoes. Since we were not (yet) professional hikers, we just had to make do with what we have hehe, our running/exercise shoes. <br />
<br />
5) Be nice to the locals and fellow hikers. For obvious reasons. Being nice really pays. You'll never know who'll help you when you need a hand. Many hikers are really friendly and helpful and will teach you with the directions, that sort of stuff.<br />
<br />
6) Be prepared for contingencies..bring enough <i>baon</i>, medicines, tissue, flashlight, etc. Just be prepared :)<br />
<br />
7) Be environment-friendly! Don't leave your trash behind. There is nothing more unsightly and irritating than the sight of mineral bottles and food plastics scattered in the campsites and trails. Remember, we are just visitors there, we have no right to spoil the place. Act responsibly.Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-11774810071205872552012-02-01T00:45:00.002+08:002012-02-01T14:32:14.824+08:00Mashitta Experience: Japanese and Korean Foods on a Budget<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYhwZtW_3wnQzMsrPat5CdAWHSjmLOIDHksAZGXp14AOHF43n8l6-VpFGz1w2iD1sjQLl4UDo34JHMnRiHAWA-E8Y5yIQNZfyVAz4cvaiqwk1Pq0Sq9xvqpKr8t9rvUmdM07wiEx6vrNFl/s1600/photo(22).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYhwZtW_3wnQzMsrPat5CdAWHSjmLOIDHksAZGXp14AOHF43n8l6-VpFGz1w2iD1sjQLl4UDo34JHMnRiHAWA-E8Y5yIQNZfyVAz4cvaiqwk1Pq0Sq9xvqpKr8t9rvUmdM07wiEx6vrNFl/s400/photo(22).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot, Filling and Delicious Meals @ Masshita (U.P. Diliman, Shopping Center)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Bar Exam last year taught me a lot of things about life and about what I really want and how far I can go. On the other hand, the gruelling demands of the review also taught me to take care of myself and to consider once in a while the value of a reward after a hard day's work :) I think the same goes for many of my fellow reviewees who also felt the pressure and thus, the need to have a break from time to time. This has led us--my fellow reviewees, Jessie and Chris, and I--to try Mashitta, a small restaurant located at UP Diliman's Shopping Center that serves Japanese and Korean cuisines.  <br />
 <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP-KP5hYR8FvurdTytkhrK0nA_sMg5TDRubDQGbVJ7mofBpavEwri__kpPKkFEQ7DQps4QAj2kfI1WsYgRVCApW96PgQJOwC3VTR6KK-cRlqb7a4-JMw8L2m6l7iF_EYJLiDczWefXkfiF/s1600/photo%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP-KP5hYR8FvurdTytkhrK0nA_sMg5TDRubDQGbVJ7mofBpavEwri__kpPKkFEQ7DQps4QAj2kfI1WsYgRVCApW96PgQJOwC3VTR6KK-cRlqb7a4-JMw8L2m6l7iF_EYJLiDczWefXkfiF/s400/photo%252813%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Savillas with An Appetite: With Jessie, doing the K-Pop pose:) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSw1R_SvUtVftR-6bZ-ffxT03qxx55DIn7RmMdTzm3J8ufY9kEKUtZH4UKf1dcejL82zb0T80hECMRKadXyHsewab0xptxOwvxWkXGLaONNi9aQAM8LLy7-DiXPjhdIFehZErbRCdTBe8b/s1600/photo%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSw1R_SvUtVftR-6bZ-ffxT03qxx55DIn7RmMdTzm3J8ufY9kEKUtZH4UKf1dcejL82zb0T80hECMRKadXyHsewab0xptxOwvxWkXGLaONNi9aQAM8LLy7-DiXPjhdIFehZErbRCdTBe8b/s400/photo%252815%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
 <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXzAXv0H8QJZiK6wADlIW2OatkaodHkYfboVFhPmdiCTU2zEcULDUrNovfFO4cxKb5eKKBxIwS3BdyJBLGjO5dgk91WGy86HvXBK_MG9sCCQUvpfxbyhnxlYPIeFmPsqajRbHu-3_bc2P/s1600/photo%252816%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXzAXv0H8QJZiK6wADlIW2OatkaodHkYfboVFhPmdiCTU2zEcULDUrNovfFO4cxKb5eKKBxIwS3BdyJBLGjO5dgk91WGy86HvXBK_MG9sCCQUvpfxbyhnxlYPIeFmPsqajRbHu-3_bc2P/s400/photo%252816%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the Road to Yumminess. Thanks Chris C. for these pics! :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Don't be fooled by its small and simple place. Mashitta serves an impressive selection of Japanese and Korean foods. Although most of the foods' flavor, I believe, are adjusted to cater to the local palate, they still taste close to the original. For someone like me who loves Asian food, particularly Japanese (and it's a good thing that I have friends like Jessie and Chris who are equally foodie adventurers), I found our orders quite satisfying. What is more, they all come with an affordable price. Our orders of <strong>Miso Ramen</strong> and <strong>Spicy Guksu </strong>are all priced at P100. That's pretty <em>sulit</em> already given the amount of serving, which can be good for sharing between two not-so-<em>matakaw</em> diners but definitely not for us hehe.  <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PPBnzp5EXFWL0zoStIbOn3ZO70wZVlcqIOYQczQfxMR_Z7fzahzf09Mr47WEahcQcEcp5hpcZkHbNh2W5fiJJAafxKTt_Xs-UW7X6UqTVuf0zJ0Tq5XDdZbHFuWV3li4norbqJ9Qgu55/s1600/photo(11).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PPBnzp5EXFWL0zoStIbOn3ZO70wZVlcqIOYQczQfxMR_Z7fzahzf09Mr47WEahcQcEcp5hpcZkHbNh2W5fiJJAafxKTt_Xs-UW7X6UqTVuf0zJ0Tq5XDdZbHFuWV3li4norbqJ9Qgu55/s400/photo(11).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miso Ramen for the Boys: In Honor of Naruto...Seriously!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsaEAMleuf2y5fR3czSN75q4LcVOxew5wR3RfoRWrwvn3sEvBSzCpKOSCkKFXVa73W6kcGDAx3arlVLmnKjDo_2Z1cE3e60M4YZsK-eI8F2jiEUpw0EDqui6TzclI42D_TBZbAnB9uP6bp/s1600/photo(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsaEAMleuf2y5fR3czSN75q4LcVOxew5wR3RfoRWrwvn3sEvBSzCpKOSCkKFXVa73W6kcGDAx3arlVLmnKjDo_2Z1cE3e60M4YZsK-eI8F2jiEUpw0EDqui6TzclI42D_TBZbAnB9uP6bp/s400/photo(6).JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
Life is a Bowl of Hot Noodles and I'm Going to Eat It :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The boys ordered <strong>Miso Ramen</strong> because it is the favorite of <strong>Naruto</strong>, an anime character they apparently admire. <em>Hay</em> boys tlaga! They don't even like to share it with me because, according to Chris, Naruto doesn't like to share. I don't know if that's really true or he just made it up so he won't share hehe. I, on the other hand, ordered <strong>Spicy Guksu</strong> because I like spicy and I wanted to try Korean noodles.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhXswSld7rf2vYg9CDtG69XYyzGdennAKibPEmpz0YQfR2KYyhpxHefFOiVCHSESBypUP92HAc6s5CifFoAbRuujoIL017OcLWkmAjajHFjn7rc3m03fBhEbB2oAD3-J8QnmI4Dl5JojMf/s1600/photo(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhXswSld7rf2vYg9CDtG69XYyzGdennAKibPEmpz0YQfR2KYyhpxHefFOiVCHSESBypUP92HAc6s5CifFoAbRuujoIL017OcLWkmAjajHFjn7rc3m03fBhEbB2oAD3-J8QnmI4Dl5JojMf/s400/photo(5).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kimbap :) I can eat a whole dish of this!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our other orders are <strong>Kimbap </strong>and <strong>California Maki. </strong>If I remember correctly, their prices range from P90 to P110. My bad, I forgot the exact amount hehe. But still, they are quite affordable. And notwithstanding the relatively low price, the taste is big all the same :) Anyways, we all dig in and enjoyed our meals.<br />
<br />
My succeeding dining experiences at Mashitta were with Kends and August and then, with Namie and Ruben. Kends ordered Maki; August, tofu and spicy pork; Namie, Jjampong; and Ruben, Yakisoba. I also tried <strong>Jjampong</strong> and <strong>Spicy Squid</strong>. The prices of these foods rarely go beyond P110. Indeed I can say that you get value for your money--or more.The jjampong was a tad bland for my taste, but I still liked its spicy seafood and nori flavor. I was a little <em>bitin</em> with my spicy squid because there was more vegetable than squid on my plate, but overall the taste was good. <br />
<br />
So that's it, my Masshita meals with friends. Really, what do time- and cash-strapped bar reviewees do during their free time to break away from the droning routine of study and more study? Well, usually, during the rare moments when we have some free time to indulge our fancy, we simply <strong>sleep, chat</strong> and <strong>eat</strong> :) Boring right? But these little pleasures--like our Mashitta food trips--have given us the sweet escapes, the respite we need to replenish our energy reserves to take in some more. FIN.<br />
<br />
<strong>How to Reach Mashitta</strong>:<br />
When in UP Diliman, just ride the "IKOT" jeepney and get-off at the Shopping Center. The Shopping Center is located near the university chapel and just beside the infirmary. Inside the Shopping Center there you will find Mashitta, which is beside the Alicia stall, which sells yummy FIC icecream :)Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0Roxas Ave, University of the Philippines, Quezon City, Philippines14.654011581568646 121.0648727416992214.623290081568646 121.02539074169921 14.684733081568647 121.10435474169923tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-61576057288719835452012-01-25T17:14:00.001+08:002012-02-17T16:53:33.671+08:00A Great Day at San Antonio, Zambales (Part III): Anawangin Cove <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiR5TIWnVLtuEOPl7h-Yyy4E3eyL0qjxai0MHMr7jGIL-QWBdwhbe5_vs-1zHsyL4wX0vh2amwlRaeLnxhsLn1Va6W01Si6lIOMlW1aRS1h8QGTAzqZ8ViRY0OLgQ7n6AcrHMd_cv1U47x/s1600/30316_388202424929_667359929_4067986_5223408_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiR5TIWnVLtuEOPl7h-Yyy4E3eyL0qjxai0MHMr7jGIL-QWBdwhbe5_vs-1zHsyL4wX0vh2amwlRaeLnxhsLn1Va6W01Si6lIOMlW1aRS1h8QGTAzqZ8ViRY0OLgQ7n6AcrHMd_cv1U47x/s400/30316_388202424929_667359929_4067986_5223408_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anawangin Cove</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The last stop in our San Antonio, Zambales trip is <strong>Anawangin Cove</strong>. After the group had their share of sunshine, sea breeze, great views and lots of fun at <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/01/pundaquit-zambales-trip-part-i-camarra.html" target="_blank">Camara</a> and <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/01/great-day-at-pundaquit-zambales-part-ii.html" target="_blank">Capones</a> Islands, we then headed to Anawangin Cove where we are going to have lunch and spend the rest of our remaining hours before going back to Jimz Resthouse in Pundaquit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucOF-IrKqJyeh7v82z91GHeGEnjAfjq8YSqoTmzHPxiQgkqoTTrRSCFyV08b4yRFdFqzhHNhSrvkmYPCbP8WrFfk0-1R2Pcgx7-gtyPGum5kf0umXcdehp453GnkGiTwbJwfP-pAjuB7V/s1600/30316_388218884929_667359929_4068291_947676_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucOF-IrKqJyeh7v82z91GHeGEnjAfjq8YSqoTmzHPxiQgkqoTTrRSCFyV08b4yRFdFqzhHNhSrvkmYPCbP8WrFfk0-1R2Pcgx7-gtyPGum5kf0umXcdehp453GnkGiTwbJwfP-pAjuB7V/s400/30316_388218884929_667359929_4068291_947676_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWOmCWCU7ohAG_1ANWhFM_Bybpn6oFjHU1DZ9rWxKyaq5qkJ3wxe5eMRiODQrP1c2n_UV3Vswv9_vWlRmtsp98qIrBExgcfWV1uphmfZ_HghftPceWGrMe14vrz6NdaxO5uLmaIP0XFg5h/s1600/30316_388218879929_667359929_4068290_1970697_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWOmCWCU7ohAG_1ANWhFM_Bybpn6oFjHU1DZ9rWxKyaq5qkJ3wxe5eMRiODQrP1c2n_UV3Vswv9_vWlRmtsp98qIrBExgcfWV1uphmfZ_HghftPceWGrMe14vrz6NdaxO5uLmaIP0XFg5h/s400/30316_388218879929_667359929_4068290_1970697_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLNhdYp8Ug_Sxnxi2SL-_FUlP09cKQU2rhXE6XTWWrNoDvxcpZkjLmOppmFU4hLywcVYeB79VkFERB1HGZMVamkd7Kk6MA21xXSMXkAmwW7lBOoUgEN2AHWygollFCK2CEAHJi3IDyW0Ui/s1600/30316_388218889929_667359929_4068292_2089150_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLNhdYp8Ug_Sxnxi2SL-_FUlP09cKQU2rhXE6XTWWrNoDvxcpZkjLmOppmFU4hLywcVYeB79VkFERB1HGZMVamkd7Kk6MA21xXSMXkAmwW7lBOoUgEN2AHWygollFCK2CEAHJi3IDyW0Ui/s400/30316_388218889929_667359929_4068292_2089150_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Anawangin Cove is one of the coves created by the fateful eruption of the nearby Mount Pinatubo in the 1990s. Hence, with its pretty landscape of near white sand beach and agoho trees, the island attests to the saying that out of bad comes good sometimes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoYwKI8VPaZFA6U-9bBNc03AajKsaX2cK8qgtz6ldTHNkAHE-8uTKDf8zCXkctSqBl0BIzK9yCjENo3h8EXQ8-WB6tGQR5hg4Qj4WASixdva76sytjhhNNPsnxtp7Pn3_JYAHGJcWIefO/s1600/30316_388202444929_667359929_4067989_4744941_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoYwKI8VPaZFA6U-9bBNc03AajKsaX2cK8qgtz6ldTHNkAHE-8uTKDf8zCXkctSqBl0BIzK9yCjENo3h8EXQ8-WB6tGQR5hg4Qj4WASixdva76sytjhhNNPsnxtp7Pn3_JYAHGJcWIefO/s400/30316_388202444929_667359929_4067989_4744941_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I read about Anawanging Cove several years back from one of the top travel blogs, and I was sort of expecting that it would still look the way it was described back then--an islet of tranquility, where one can spend hours of peaceful solitude with nature. I was excited. But apparently, this beautiful place is no longer a secret to the traveling public (the fact that we even learned about it!hehe). What we saw was far from such peaceful picture, as the cove was literally packed with campers!There were families and barkadas happily spending their afternoon there and who knows how long they've been there--the whole weekend perhaps. Some campers were possibly mountaineers who traversed Mount Pundaquit to reach the cove.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZmU55SdAOOG4JGyT4xMfbAE-RxdzB8FYSdsQDbn4w4Zal4Xv4cqT-Y9nW_KngWt5sc-FHtq5J_VhBsXXN0W-Ya-ZtPIUbpQSiwfLC7aaUcGainYiK6-fZwf-eoF7F0r45ZNQAg-n8fkX/s1600/30316_388208759929_667359929_4068058_4623883_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZmU55SdAOOG4JGyT4xMfbAE-RxdzB8FYSdsQDbn4w4Zal4Xv4cqT-Y9nW_KngWt5sc-FHtq5J_VhBsXXN0W-Ya-ZtPIUbpQSiwfLC7aaUcGainYiK6-fZwf-eoF7F0r45ZNQAg-n8fkX/s400/30316_388208759929_667359929_4068058_4623883_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggM41rzryjojjdlMPzxSQ8_PopVQVgUxccE6by1DBQEkt4NZQ6aMKhD-3_p8Hq67xSKeolBZzZt7X3ppCLHl170zKFW93NAji0JOCdkVKnodgpL9eSki834DuowZkyYmcmgeZIuyWarn8X/s1600/30316_388206604929_667359929_4068039_4316253_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggM41rzryjojjdlMPzxSQ8_PopVQVgUxccE6by1DBQEkt4NZQ6aMKhD-3_p8Hq67xSKeolBZzZt7X3ppCLHl170zKFW93NAji0JOCdkVKnodgpL9eSki834DuowZkyYmcmgeZIuyWarn8X/s400/30316_388206604929_667359929_4068039_4316253_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Tents are scattered across the large camping area, where the towering agoho trees provide shade and also a scenic view. People were singing, eating, daydreaming in hammocks, drinking--having fun, in other words. And we were bound to do exactly the same. So my slight disappointment eventually dissipated and was replaced with excitement as the contagious joy of others seemed to have rubbed on us also.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFWRaQ41Xz9n7k5wVLIacYGN7mQm0pbNH-iMlMDA12w9zvCwWLElApm27XxC5Og-Ti93u_GXEDwetI_ZArOrs2T-xpsIg6CMlCjDVNOO5AnKjybKY3YGu8hgGJJI0kLcq4xLN6Jr7C_b7/s1600/30316_388203334929_667359929_4067996_3911061_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFWRaQ41Xz9n7k5wVLIacYGN7mQm0pbNH-iMlMDA12w9zvCwWLElApm27XxC5Og-Ti93u_GXEDwetI_ZArOrs2T-xpsIg6CMlCjDVNOO5AnKjybKY3YGu8hgGJJI0kLcq4xLN6Jr7C_b7/s400/30316_388203334929_667359929_4067996_3911061_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIkMiYxeznywCt1atD9pXxOaB7VX47Wa9cjohRzqhJKxg1_Ntxz49gMNs2-3dRjHjGbT30i1wwYXLYYCczVn6FZVpHQxuzWv2bSOjvlPZr6JZV-smLZQ-9jnNo4y4cI1POg7Z5CUB40Kf/s1600/30316_388208754929_667359929_4068057_5801949_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIkMiYxeznywCt1atD9pXxOaB7VX47Wa9cjohRzqhJKxg1_Ntxz49gMNs2-3dRjHjGbT30i1wwYXLYYCczVn6FZVpHQxuzWv2bSOjvlPZr6JZV-smLZQ-9jnNo4y4cI1POg7Z5CUB40Kf/s400/30316_388208754929_667359929_4068057_5801949_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygtzMimVMAQhW6BrSBwOP4bafYV9jnfKAPD9HgGz4TExFUeasccdV5p7YMB8GVGXAavGrmmtQOOZNpqPH7wTfYVBz9edJVQ2Ri1ZjR5mSOm4GX1d6Ni01yhkvV3WOBNgZIIEW8hkDMFCe/s1600/30316_388203354929_667359929_4068000_4264973_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygtzMimVMAQhW6BrSBwOP4bafYV9jnfKAPD9HgGz4TExFUeasccdV5p7YMB8GVGXAavGrmmtQOOZNpqPH7wTfYVBz9edJVQ2Ri1ZjR5mSOm4GX1d6Ni01yhkvV3WOBNgZIIEW8hkDMFCe/s400/30316_388203354929_667359929_4068000_4264973_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Our <em>banca </em>driver helped us to set up our own "camp", as we were obviously unprepared for that hehe. We didn't have a tent with us, so the <em>bankero</em> provided us with tarp or canvass where we can sit and eat our lunch of tocino (cured pork, or was that really pork???) and tortang talong (egpplant omelet) cooked by the caretakers of Jimz Resort =)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO10SkfIxkwEeSIQi2ZH4APjAlPkEzeJGb8k9fv7sb_RdrA-UXokGfOTI8g_9r1eoHwZ0mGCXqj0eNutFD6IKspRwaJU_RJqAwCUz2fARluH-nQ7CqH9U-9Y4xqVsvFqzflfIytI_K7Pt9/s1600/30316_388212689929_667359929_4068129_2507536_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO10SkfIxkwEeSIQi2ZH4APjAlPkEzeJGb8k9fv7sb_RdrA-UXokGfOTI8g_9r1eoHwZ0mGCXqj0eNutFD6IKspRwaJU_RJqAwCUz2fARluH-nQ7CqH9U-9Y4xqVsvFqzflfIytI_K7Pt9/s400/30316_388212689929_667359929_4068129_2507536_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After lunch, we exchaged stories, took pictures, lied down, enjoyed the view...relaxed. Then we decided to take a dip at the beach nearby. Eds and Kresta opted to swim; Liza ate a halo-halo at the store while watching over our things; and Grace and I had a brief tour of the place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJlSRAa4PvbpYSsHkY2yJeVVmkY7yk-I3twkQdMGJAEHW-3NZTqgj2nIPur_clYSL9QOxO4QeZbgnd8O0PZFsEqUR2eICUiI2UnBjiRwZW5pAH7uU8kNb6a_YgrZj_ryJaWx9OUSJi9Pg/s1600/30316_388233764929_667359929_4068466_980777_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJlSRAa4PvbpYSsHkY2yJeVVmkY7yk-I3twkQdMGJAEHW-3NZTqgj2nIPur_clYSL9QOxO4QeZbgnd8O0PZFsEqUR2eICUiI2UnBjiRwZW5pAH7uU8kNb6a_YgrZj_ryJaWx9OUSJi9Pg/s400/30316_388233764929_667359929_4068466_980777_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoYwKI8VPaZFA6U-9bBNc03AajKsaX2cK8qgtz6ldTHNkAHE-8uTKDf8zCXkctSqBl0BIzK9yCjENo3h8EXQ8-WB6tGQR5hg4Qj4WASixdva76sytjhhNNPsnxtp7Pn3_JYAHGJcWIefO/s1600/30316_388202444929_667359929_4067989_4744941_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhffkCYZj5k1PI26ZpDchhumkSRS042LDnUAS5x9-N-3ez-7Z-XTXA5e0gnn8ePRphwvO8IWVAgqSclNPovga7Jm7_zoKQcMrmEsxFcNn761qmRkXVNDoPz0LKcTVIWPnm1Px-OzQBnMHvI/s1600/30316_388214974929_667359929_4068151_8264598_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhffkCYZj5k1PI26ZpDchhumkSRS042LDnUAS5x9-N-3ez-7Z-XTXA5e0gnn8ePRphwvO8IWVAgqSclNPovga7Jm7_zoKQcMrmEsxFcNn761qmRkXVNDoPz0LKcTVIWPnm1Px-OzQBnMHvI/s400/30316_388214974929_667359929_4068151_8264598_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWer1zFifLkZRNfP6NObWGUjfZLkAr14igHtFukHPHpVQ0KsIGhDDe0ePvY1uOjjFMV0Mkvc3cgNZSwXnQ0XnNhTXYOQCPqRfZbXRgaeiSx7IllSiCyQg-PeOQPXkicGfL5TElnZs5yKIz/s1600/30316_388247669929_667359929_4068796_5539106_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWer1zFifLkZRNfP6NObWGUjfZLkAr14igHtFukHPHpVQ0KsIGhDDe0ePvY1uOjjFMV0Mkvc3cgNZSwXnQ0XnNhTXYOQCPqRfZbXRgaeiSx7IllSiCyQg-PeOQPXkicGfL5TElnZs5yKIz/s400/30316_388247669929_667359929_4068796_5539106_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
At around 3PM, the boat arrived and took us back to Jimz. Actually, it was so nice of Jimz Beach Resort to have allowed us to park the car for free while we were out island hopping; they also even allowed us to use the bathrooms where we rinsed and changed. So that caps our fun adventure at San Antonio, Zambales =)<br />
<br />
<strong>Recap of the Trip</strong>:<br />
We left Manila Friday night @ 7pm<br />
<br />
We arrived in San Antonio Zambales @ around 12 midnight (5-hr drive), after a number of stopovers and after getting lost in Subic; checked in at Jimz Beach Resort where we spent the night.<br />
<br />
For those who would be taking the bus, ride the bus (Victory Liner) going to Iba, Zambales and alight at San Antonio town proper. Bus terminals are in Cubao, Sampaloc, Caloocan and Pasay. Fare is around P350. Rent a tricycle to any of the resorts at Pundaquit, fare could be between P30 to P50 per head.<br />
<br />
Saturday early morning, we had an early breakfast and asked the resort caretakers to prepare lunch for us for a minimal fee. The resort also contacted the boat for the island-hopping, the cost of which was P350pax. <br />
<br />
Finally, we got to visit Camara Island, Capones Island and Lighthouse and Anawangin Cove =) FIN.Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0Evangelista, San Antonio, Philippines14.955399325942631 120.0503540039062514.710033825942631 119.73449700390626 15.200764825942631 120.36621100390624tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-79386682208258461722012-01-17T14:52:00.001+08:002012-01-20T12:42:44.926+08:00A Great Day at San Antonio, Zambales (Part II): Capones Island<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAepLk5QpzLMUb1ZEXv6dkX77LBoA_u9YE9cdHFJC7Q42vBW51H0krnJtFK9wJ1fEV84BG7SJk2EMV5MwDjKTQSR4cTziK_H_Ck8Gu9mY-mc6yJCtZ8i6esaeHTkeEYmyQrxJ3oSp1PwOj/s1600/30316_387300844929_667359929_4049527_7750051_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAepLk5QpzLMUb1ZEXv6dkX77LBoA_u9YE9cdHFJC7Q42vBW51H0krnJtFK9wJ1fEV84BG7SJk2EMV5MwDjKTQSR4cTziK_H_Ck8Gu9mY-mc6yJCtZ8i6esaeHTkeEYmyQrxJ3oSp1PwOj/s400/30316_387300844929_667359929_4049527_7750051_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Capones Lighthouse @ Capones Island</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/01/pundaquit-zambales-trip-part-i-camarra.html">Camara Island</a>, our next stop was <b>Capones Island</b>. Capones is the second location in our day's itinerary, the other two being Camara and Anawangin.<br />
<b>
<b> </b></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" height="317" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; width: 412px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjReahy5HZzbE83puUp7uFxQj2BBVvu_ZUXI6ERyVypCVlu-uhX2pAIXIGm9wqwvaecBD7ehOHWt-Z2JtViagj35scDkVz0OH8avyVPsfpP8nDXlpzdgAHHZ6wLJKddQ6joAc5klLFQAvZt/s1600/30316_387300599929_667359929_4049501_6785469_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjReahy5HZzbE83puUp7uFxQj2BBVvu_ZUXI6ERyVypCVlu-uhX2pAIXIGm9wqwvaecBD7ehOHWt-Z2JtViagj35scDkVz0OH8avyVPsfpP8nDXlpzdgAHHZ6wLJKddQ6joAc5klLFQAvZt/s400/30316_387300599929_667359929_4049501_6785469_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The rocky shores of Capones Island</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Capones is a rugged beauty. Large white boulders are scattered on its shores and a rocky mountain towers imposingly over our seemingly minuscule boats. It's like a scene from a pirate or an island cast-away movie. What makes the island special, however--in fact, the main attraction therein--is the Capones Lighthouse. Save for the lighthouse which is now a popular tourist destination, the place has that atmosphere of isolation. With its picturesque view, Capones is beautiful and serene but also rugged and desolate.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVqw3WFxv0iY4iLBwAW-jo1r4Y4KjKmCoPvGWrh9VR5KN8fuH1p24ZQ9S3Q8hAl1j8C2bgUCoT0cPWL8NizOG0rsB6VRmruewyrKRxey2ijc01NvMVoA4HjZTPsQS7hfaaeKOirlvteHF/s1600/30316_387291299929_667359929_4049190_7327159_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVqw3WFxv0iY4iLBwAW-jo1r4Y4KjKmCoPvGWrh9VR5KN8fuH1p24ZQ9S3Q8hAl1j8C2bgUCoT0cPWL8NizOG0rsB6VRmruewyrKRxey2ijc01NvMVoA4HjZTPsQS7hfaaeKOirlvteHF/s400/30316_387291299929_667359929_4049190_7327159_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaaaddVcw0Ea-qarB8D16QsUVrCIVY56rs1ch3TpBBrEcfGAW2JRbmOCAEHPlKaJu5jhTNg4KhSbFu_43MVmiQmqnKMg6cexPjQQIzjwWSwBVXqtOSoGYVsrFn_UU6CaIyBnA6pUlNMzvq/s1600/30316_387291284929_667359929_4049188_5409046_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaaaddVcw0Ea-qarB8D16QsUVrCIVY56rs1ch3TpBBrEcfGAW2JRbmOCAEHPlKaJu5jhTNg4KhSbFu_43MVmiQmqnKMg6cexPjQQIzjwWSwBVXqtOSoGYVsrFn_UU6CaIyBnA6pUlNMzvq/s400/30316_387291284929_667359929_4049188_5409046_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>These girls are toughies as much as they are beauties :)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In order to reach the lighthouse, we have to climb a flight of stairs on the side of the mountain. Stairs are not exactly my specialty hehe, and I quite expected <i>na</i> what's going to happen once we start to climb. It was a tough moment for me indeed--I was all sweaty, hot and out of breath. If you are going to climb mid-morning like what we did, apply a generous amount of sunblock unless you want to get sunburned :) It may also help to have some <i>balabal</i> (shawl) or any cover to protect your skin from the heat of the sun.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDoiKDop20RcViKsfDnuFy5RLNbS0tuoR_WkyOgNjMghpbOwoSpYNDgc8uQM0x79vcpnUu1gbQjKhTfunXQeZgm7GSrDx_TOHBg_91HiRHHi0YnoiwVsW1PmKpSJkWYaSUx3JBVPZYtWfD/s1600/30316_387293344929_667359929_4049249_7612044_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDoiKDop20RcViKsfDnuFy5RLNbS0tuoR_WkyOgNjMghpbOwoSpYNDgc8uQM0x79vcpnUu1gbQjKhTfunXQeZgm7GSrDx_TOHBg_91HiRHHi0YnoiwVsW1PmKpSJkWYaSUx3JBVPZYtWfD/s400/30316_387293344929_667359929_4049249_7612044_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Standing Near the Edge</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The hike up the mountain is not yet the "main" climb, as we still have to tackle the stairs of the lighthouse. Though I may sound whiny already, in retrospect, it was actually fun as we laughed at each other's struggles and more importantly, helped and coaxed each other."No woman left behind", was apparently our motto :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPICh1CEXE8MBHhgxdTjVbjNGuqAnM5hsvCcLLK16jEUXIo6oBt8Mj35IQiZPlErszYKA3kdyLkrG8rUnLrwrw2nzWeLobXSc7vPjdS2nap-sG5xjvGpdSuFnWmoW1W2XdHBdhIeG68Y5/s1600/30316_387295629929_667359929_4049291_5982171_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPICh1CEXE8MBHhgxdTjVbjNGuqAnM5hsvCcLLK16jEUXIo6oBt8Mj35IQiZPlErszYKA3kdyLkrG8rUnLrwrw2nzWeLobXSc7vPjdS2nap-sG5xjvGpdSuFnWmoW1W2XdHBdhIeG68Y5/s400/30316_387295629929_667359929_4049291_5982171_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0bqHWCIkaTQfKd_tHZMMjPNG_hz3l2VN-lSl6iLGrrgga6gUCbjvRjZd_iWnjOTyZy1nty6BnVNb9xa76cnnOIqn6RK7l0mV6JpIW3w_-svVFvQOsONFmvqy_4YmttMGCeOtFpmAZVbZA/s1600/30316_387300839929_667359929_4049526_5886740_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0bqHWCIkaTQfKd_tHZMMjPNG_hz3l2VN-lSl6iLGrrgga6gUCbjvRjZd_iWnjOTyZy1nty6BnVNb9xa76cnnOIqn6RK7l0mV6JpIW3w_-svVFvQOsONFmvqy_4YmttMGCeOtFpmAZVbZA/s400/30316_387300839929_667359929_4049526_5886740_n.jpg" width="293" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJTt8FNZJ8Ga8nnJDY02NhzQ6HQmOeLoC2aNVN-4SP-c5uBD5JnV9KocW7WNrDI-89cu7WrzD03yxC8d_4iSnfy7pK_Uo7DlM6yWm8YRmQ92zMnnIhplom5fZtM_Wsp6il7EYf-L6KJZs2/s1600/30316_387293404929_667359929_4049260_234434_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJTt8FNZJ8Ga8nnJDY02NhzQ6HQmOeLoC2aNVN-4SP-c5uBD5JnV9KocW7WNrDI-89cu7WrzD03yxC8d_4iSnfy7pK_Uo7DlM6yWm8YRmQ92zMnnIhplom5fZtM_Wsp6il7EYf-L6KJZs2/s400/30316_387293404929_667359929_4049260_234434_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
After the stairs, we walked through a narrow dirt path until we reached an old, old gate and then, there's the old, old lighthouse! Here's a bit of history. Capones Lighthouse was built during the latter part of the 19th century and went into operation in 1890. It has been guiding ships and other sea vessels since then.<br />
<br />
Today, the powerful megawatt light bulbs are powered by solar panels.
Pretty high-tech right? But the actual building of the lighthouse needs
some serious repairs; the same goes to the ramshackle house of its
caretakers. I heard that Capones lighthouse was erected at almost the
same time as its look-alike in Ilocos Norte, the Cape Bojeador. These two lighthouses look as if they are long-lost identical twins hehe. And the
effort it takes to climb them is almost similar too!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG92GNHvQy8PL8OvIlTcoVvkjB-9xHF2-MtSHC3qEuOvKL8tSpm4oKixIPPPuAfXoeL5mVtJ1spOA99f3Mv86uYvurUO7ivq6UlQCgk1Uogl6wthN79TFZiEpAHOIDc9zCAcZVFkPjvdOA/s1600/30316_387300779929_667359929_4049518_2252183_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG92GNHvQy8PL8OvIlTcoVvkjB-9xHF2-MtSHC3qEuOvKL8tSpm4oKixIPPPuAfXoeL5mVtJ1spOA99f3Mv86uYvurUO7ivq6UlQCgk1Uogl6wthN79TFZiEpAHOIDc9zCAcZVFkPjvdOA/s400/30316_387300779929_667359929_4049518_2252183_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUY1c-oUVcGOkyqPT1mWjZOESdQ4ZxHnXjzYbCQUuEck3WQZguZdDJ-ZzBFBJ6fBc_SmGiNzCrcjxoXpjpfhH_bx9iI9_Z8XQvOQkL3cJuLalbDbY5aX5XjbWDlAxts5GiO8lxFAjsveZ/s1600/30316_387300799929_667359929_4049521_2126599_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUY1c-oUVcGOkyqPT1mWjZOESdQ4ZxHnXjzYbCQUuEck3WQZguZdDJ-ZzBFBJ6fBc_SmGiNzCrcjxoXpjpfhH_bx9iI9_Z8XQvOQkL3cJuLalbDbY5aX5XjbWDlAxts5GiO8lxFAjsveZ/s400/30316_387300799929_667359929_4049521_2126599_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdqMG-SR87Bt1WLULETl54ZLg7zNdSIuqpLNfCUZl-t8w6fHxkH4hPFumHRuc1yab6eWsrdPSArLOSy5yMjRH7litJfScmCrPAES55qG-j68rBvY_xMZTSp29aWy7Yqvxsv1hVCSSzxYX/s1600/30316_387291354929_667359929_4049196_582191_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdqMG-SR87Bt1WLULETl54ZLg7zNdSIuqpLNfCUZl-t8w6fHxkH4hPFumHRuc1yab6eWsrdPSArLOSy5yMjRH7litJfScmCrPAES55qG-j68rBvY_xMZTSp29aWy7Yqvxsv1hVCSSzxYX/s400/30316_387291354929_667359929_4049196_582191_n.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBFfftBdvDp9Ndn3mbaH_OW8rqBMwFsc-ie8oPtFwdMP6BvjLZZbxcZigqhTa50MKuoWjJFijEsmYGl_PmhsBVyxOe44ceML4bQDoKzqLoDtP7yQXd9I4FtuPBYaeXOxfnWtmGrnTUcnq/s1600/30316_387291344929_667359929_4049195_3710317_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBFfftBdvDp9Ndn3mbaH_OW8rqBMwFsc-ie8oPtFwdMP6BvjLZZbxcZigqhTa50MKuoWjJFijEsmYGl_PmhsBVyxOe44ceML4bQDoKzqLoDtP7yQXd9I4FtuPBYaeXOxfnWtmGrnTUcnq/s400/30316_387291344929_667359929_4049195_3710317_n.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The tedious climb has its priceless reward--an amazing vista of the island and beyond. And not to mention, the smug feeling of having braved that flight of steps :) I did not cower in fear or shirk from the challenge.<br />
<br />
Yehey, another bragging right! I may not be a gym buff but, heck, can I climb a lighthouse hahaha...And finally, there's the feeling of relief of having reached the top (without any casualties or untoward incidents hehehe). Hay, the view there was truly relaxing that I'd climb another lighthouse anytime. In fact, I already made my quest to climb as many lighthouses as possible, so wish me luck on that. My next post: Anawangin Cove. This is it for now ;)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBFfftBdvDp9Ndn3mbaH_OW8rqBMwFsc-ie8oPtFwdMP6BvjLZZbxcZigqhTa50MKuoWjJFijEsmYGl_PmhsBVyxOe44ceML4bQDoKzqLoDtP7yQXd9I4FtuPBYaeXOxfnWtmGrnTUcnq/s1600/30316_387291344929_667359929_4049195_3710317_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Overview of the Trip:<br />
From Manila, Zambales is around 5-hour drive. If via a bus, ride the bus going to Iba or Sta.Cruz, Zambales. Bus terminals of Victory Liner are found in Cubao, Pasay, Sampaloc and Caloocan, MM.<br />
Tell the bus conductor to drop you off at San Antonio, Zambales town proper. Fare is approx.P350. Upon reaching San Antonio, hire a tricycle (P30-50/head) to take you to Pundaquit Beach, and from there you will find boats (P350/head or depending on the number of persons) for rent for your island hopping. Enjoy!Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-54678102582416683972012-01-12T21:35:00.031+08:002012-02-17T16:52:21.223+08:00A Great Day at San Antonio, Zambales (Part I) : Camara Island<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPryPtUqaJhK1Xwkf4mSxHbOAZ84pMyNtxBdYzQfNGpxri-BsyvF0MhXOPRppaIBJcLWvtR0c67SeBZlp1wSWnSEjs-fJVjVU3rzb7cdhcYzIJOS6MuYkiOltLndzhzXbV2esAWUJ7pE4/s1600/30316_387305709929_667359929_4049631_345271_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697026187567133490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPryPtUqaJhK1Xwkf4mSxHbOAZ84pMyNtxBdYzQfNGpxri-BsyvF0MhXOPRppaIBJcLWvtR0c67SeBZlp1wSWnSEjs-fJVjVU3rzb7cdhcYzIJOS6MuYkiOltLndzhzXbV2esAWUJ7pE4/s320/30316_387305709929_667359929_4049631_345271_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Lakwatseras! The author with her friends and travel besties @ Camara Island :)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">The Plan.</span><br />
<br />
With all the travel buzz around us, my friends and I were also itching for our own out-of-town adventure. The girls are also uber <i>biyaheras</i>, only that we rarely travel in the company of each other and we think it's high time to fulfill that long overdue bloc outing :) Our idea of a weekend get-away, however, is one that is not so far from Metro Manila, will only take several hours of drive or commute, quite accessible and safe,affordable, and more importantly, idyllic for a relaxing weekend for a bunch of busy girls. This led us to decide on <span style="font-weight: bold;">Zambales</span>.<br />
<br />
Our original plan was only to go to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Anawangin Cove</span> since we've been hearing a lot about this place already. Little did we expect that there is a whole lot more in store for us in Zambales--that apart from Anawangin, there are still other beautiful islands worth a visit, such as the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Camara Island</span> and the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Capones Island</span>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2W-axHCvVztbasRqkGrJ6PKxTzl2ZyDkVQq_uyQDP1DLdKyotqMBVEsPuToHu9tTpZ8HnTRTTy0jGDloD5LHwulb2QO4oEOLpDhLWNY8P7l9grUMTWaK-VM0livGW48ilN7-OHYoDLpBh/s1600/30316_388202424929_667359929_4067986_5223408_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690112296812013154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2W-axHCvVztbasRqkGrJ6PKxTzl2ZyDkVQq_uyQDP1DLdKyotqMBVEsPuToHu9tTpZ8HnTRTTy0jGDloD5LHwulb2QO4oEOLpDhLWNY8P7l9grUMTWaK-VM0livGW48ilN7-OHYoDLpBh/s320/30316_388202424929_667359929_4067986_5223408_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">View of Anawangin Cove from a distance</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbLlk-FfPMbl8TuVna4cpbJU4DasMkGEHoEIb3Q4CHH99wzFbvhZhhE4dLXI444HC2aO23QQqpmSuU69wkRfLS-TsXeDiGUGO5m7sRcfarcPWSJxLD1sR-muIZTMsQJYzSrkw2MUKmlRU/s1600/30316_387300599929_667359929_4049501_6785469_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697032322422030770" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbLlk-FfPMbl8TuVna4cpbJU4DasMkGEHoEIb3Q4CHH99wzFbvhZhhE4dLXI444HC2aO23QQqpmSuU69wkRfLS-TsXeDiGUGO5m7sRcfarcPWSJxLD1sR-muIZTMsQJYzSrkw2MUKmlRU/s320/30316_387300599929_667359929_4049501_6785469_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Capones Island, the steps on the way to the lighthouse</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">The Trip.Arrival.</span><br />
<br />
Anyhoo, the girls are efficient planners. After some emails and texts, we finalized our plan. We'd go to Zambales on the upcoming weekend. Two days later, I packed my bags and was off to Manila (from Naga) to meet the girls. We left Manila at around 7pm and just grabbed some sandwiches along the way for dinner. <span style="font-style: italic;">Si Liza muna ang magda-drive</span>. Expectedly, it was an easy ride; got a bit lost in Subic, but made it out of the maze anyway hehe. We dropped by at a 7-11 in Olongapo, bought some supplies (alcoholic drinks, junkfoods and other similar necessities hehe) and then proceeded to the resort--<span style="font-weight: bold;">Jimz Beach Resort</span>--which Grace, our girlscout na blocmate, reserved for us. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2aOylV9yAkZvEDnVz9fqSbzVW7y7TIpDioYitjWFLPXnhpXwD8bJaWR8fwJEXFj2KP-p5OpL7elmlfVcLdbWOw_D8PnxjK-Ga78kqqRhogkkt9SAFPS-L9ZoH0zgOxF8D9HXvg3c7arM0/s1600/30766_386806559929_667359929_4034801_7900465_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697041447055998978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2aOylV9yAkZvEDnVz9fqSbzVW7y7TIpDioYitjWFLPXnhpXwD8bJaWR8fwJEXFj2KP-p5OpL7elmlfVcLdbWOw_D8PnxjK-Ga78kqqRhogkkt9SAFPS-L9ZoH0zgOxF8D9HXvg3c7arM0/s320/30766_386806559929_667359929_4034801_7900465_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Our Liza, ang kaskaserang driver :)</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEYcVgSzNXVMNFoZG8K5VelVzRCNCbimVgxqeYauOKir_YfMo-nZBQmsomrDNqbL-itOPyaZGdfbdhbAfMEOk1dKSMioewqMyqEr2JTDRiZNmNXS9bNDVJlou_nJp5drZ_iSIFFUyY4eN5/s1600/30766_386806534929_667359929_4034800_1691204_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697040221246723538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEYcVgSzNXVMNFoZG8K5VelVzRCNCbimVgxqeYauOKir_YfMo-nZBQmsomrDNqbL-itOPyaZGdfbdhbAfMEOk1dKSMioewqMyqEr2JTDRiZNmNXS9bNDVJlou_nJp5drZ_iSIFFUyY4eN5/s320/30766_386806534929_667359929_4034800_1691204_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Night travelers</span><br />
<br />
We arrived at San Antonio, Zambales at around 12 midnight (we were scaring each other while on the road and Liza, our assigned driver, was the one who got frightened hehe). Travel time from Manila to San Antonio is around 4-5 hours. To find the resort, we had to pay a tricycle to lead the way since the beach is still several kms away from the centro. Jimz Beach Resort is just OK. It's a decent resting place for tired people who, like us, just want to wash up and rest their tired bodies on a soft bed. Our rented A/C room costs P2500 and is good for 4 persons (we, five, managed to squeeze in nonetheless). They have larger rooms though, for bigger groups. Ours has two queen-size beds, a CR with hot&cold shower, and it is just a few meters away from the seaside. <span style="font-style: italic;">Solb na din</span>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsAc_o-3Xa_Y2JURvWgEPu78e6YmLGZ__7oZAQPwWwsGLM1MNKobFXNO4VrOCDHttSn1ZVCpyZREpfNPI4BVeFuSS1Ocy6qzeoAEFegsGssC76Vntg3kNn1VInyivZwOeuSFvN7jXYHfrN/s1600/30766_386806574929_667359929_4034804_330587_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697040225755890642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsAc_o-3Xa_Y2JURvWgEPu78e6YmLGZ__7oZAQPwWwsGLM1MNKobFXNO4VrOCDHttSn1ZVCpyZREpfNPI4BVeFuSS1Ocy6qzeoAEFegsGssC76Vntg3kNn1VInyivZwOeuSFvN7jXYHfrN/s320/30766_386806574929_667359929_4034804_330587_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Jimz Beach Resort</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePMXTeNOHeDFb98kuJ-OsmUW4Rz668zryY8VI5x0g-SBq2GthWVLriG_FwP7_rncQc8iQvoga9_Z8t0gbDwpf7zcFZlPAT6FliyABYuyxHVRBAyD-UGMyd-md7VHi_Jh6045ycMXvq-kB/s1600/30766_386819659929_667359929_4035020_8344971_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697040232462973682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePMXTeNOHeDFb98kuJ-OsmUW4Rz668zryY8VI5x0g-SBq2GthWVLriG_FwP7_rncQc8iQvoga9_Z8t0gbDwpf7zcFZlPAT6FliyABYuyxHVRBAyD-UGMyd-md7VHi_Jh6045ycMXvq-kB/s320/30766_386819659929_667359929_4035020_8344971_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Breakfast @ Jimz</span><br />
<br />
What is more, the resort caretakers willingly cooked us breakfast and packed lunch. They also took care of the boat for our island hopping. Kudos for customer service! They helped make our trip hassle-free, but don't expect the food to be five-star quality (or any star for that matter!) though.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGk4EQiYCTMnQAncz6fUacpQ1uCRk7KByO4vo1kzMU7stNrega6_q_XkgDNSn8qpybNd5umGTvT5aSPqJgsdns0ihGopTYVm40hMKiCOB5pyWJ0uJaZkJBVikUzCCpFkXqUHr2J3sjtOw/s1600/30766_386819679929_667359929_4035023_7891098_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697107099834392914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGk4EQiYCTMnQAncz6fUacpQ1uCRk7KByO4vo1kzMU7stNrega6_q_XkgDNSn8qpybNd5umGTvT5aSPqJgsdns0ihGopTYVm40hMKiCOB5pyWJ0uJaZkJBVikUzCCpFkXqUHr2J3sjtOw/s320/30766_386819679929_667359929_4035023_7891098_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKHUZAi6Ku1DWhOSWKm_9YTs-Lxo6ZFvwxE2ZTNFdfieCUE-9opAoDdCQ8D9xHGGNoIGnAkSm4nECFZBsCCJwD5BWydIKO6VvSAHYhPMKO4eSNg3YFCKDc3-8MWVlW3NdgcaFYyyRuH2u/s1600/30766_386810464929_667359929_4034909_6628633_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697103178267578226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKHUZAi6Ku1DWhOSWKm_9YTs-Lxo6ZFvwxE2ZTNFdfieCUE-9opAoDdCQ8D9xHGGNoIGnAkSm4nECFZBsCCJwD5BWydIKO6VvSAHYhPMKO4eSNg3YFCKDc3-8MWVlW3NdgcaFYyyRuH2u/s320/30766_386810464929_667359929_4034909_6628633_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">At Pundaquit Beach</span><br />
<br />
After breakfast, we headed to Pundaquit beach where our hired boat was waiting. Boat fare was P350 per head for a whole day of island hopping, which covered the three islands of Camara, Capones, and Anawangin. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Be Wowed @ Camara Island</span><br />
<br />
Our boat ride to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Camara Island</span> from Pundaquit Beach took around 30 minutes. The water was calm and the view on the way, relaxing. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqP1gYLbvSpg6QTzNKBGgbGESdKh4GIoJwl0PrmT9IaQzAisHRAFWNv1G3-SbSWx_CjqHpmy2cYbjvLznxr3zLAwfppitnTaukppmSmCa3MRf2SuAibPLJqxsUJtMTaye4gzZW_m6aJiX3/s1600/30766_386822119929_667359929_4035066_7339900_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697107099270771138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqP1gYLbvSpg6QTzNKBGgbGESdKh4GIoJwl0PrmT9IaQzAisHRAFWNv1G3-SbSWx_CjqHpmy2cYbjvLznxr3zLAwfppitnTaukppmSmCa3MRf2SuAibPLJqxsUJtMTaye4gzZW_m6aJiX3/s320/30766_386822119929_667359929_4035066_7339900_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">On the way to Camara Island</span><br />
<br />
Camara Island itself is very scenic! :) It is the perfect spot for a lazy day of beach bumming. With its immaculate white sand, clear blue waters and a nice of view of neighboring islands, Camara is truly an excursionist's paradise.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEganmdWrN1bQAX-ZQhtodmI-3_vU_RI2QC6Ad7CwSjsmcyddiw_3T6UvR3wxOUFnm6KapqhlOZN6HyherebXg3iQI2YSreCC_QE8X5tAzFzRPMwUlR7VWHgdp9n6KPADWbvDR2Tc4HeN4ds/s1600/30766_386814159929_667359929_4034932_4272572_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697140680720018130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEganmdWrN1bQAX-ZQhtodmI-3_vU_RI2QC6Ad7CwSjsmcyddiw_3T6UvR3wxOUFnm6KapqhlOZN6HyherebXg3iQI2YSreCC_QE8X5tAzFzRPMwUlR7VWHgdp9n6KPADWbvDR2Tc4HeN4ds/s320/30766_386814159929_667359929_4034932_4272572_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eu3jVsedd-fXQ6TAHmAxLc5kWP02wlrEPTTu80QDCNibGcxcurvPvRUClhRjH6AeS0WA-dPvTTnbbfn2GOiJ09iLBf6ROt55WSnh9E9AhQ4vV6uUANEFreaRMuLns9CHU1xJ77rPt6kx/s1600/30316_387304694929_667359929_4049605_2278124_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697221247974556434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eu3jVsedd-fXQ6TAHmAxLc5kWP02wlrEPTTu80QDCNibGcxcurvPvRUClhRjH6AeS0WA-dPvTTnbbfn2GOiJ09iLBf6ROt55WSnh9E9AhQ4vV6uUANEFreaRMuLns9CHU1xJ77rPt6kx/s320/30316_387304694929_667359929_4049605_2278124_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 450px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 350px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPmrzn8wfxDcWZf0ZjpiH8IM6h7jrARB9AjTTEPiFaRqrHhUT4zvurPXxHGcAHSxtF-bM41YbaMJ12R024oLQ0t2sTRV8Da1tBiU10Ry4kWTNRKdQz7OvRGw55WHFw055jFKOFSscbIlm9/s1600/30766_386811924929_667359929_4034922_568526_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697221245506192690" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPmrzn8wfxDcWZf0ZjpiH8IM6h7jrARB9AjTTEPiFaRqrHhUT4zvurPXxHGcAHSxtF-bM41YbaMJ12R024oLQ0t2sTRV8Da1tBiU10Ry4kWTNRKdQz7OvRGw55WHFw055jFKOFSscbIlm9/s320/30766_386811924929_667359929_4034922_568526_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8GnOrdqXSUdZCu-0JVZj1rq4kwjtMx63ypwZ7jYwjbX7Ko58FSTNhYx0_JRDE9kOOIE6-7ryxw82t4QiOmbeOUXaCF0J_JLXVOTsEQvhRVBAPUmV2iVTARORFMOAimzM4h4BVb0fnhFZ/s1600/30766_386822139929_667359929_4035068_7609308_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697140675802290530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8GnOrdqXSUdZCu-0JVZj1rq4kwjtMx63ypwZ7jYwjbX7Ko58FSTNhYx0_JRDE9kOOIE6-7ryxw82t4QiOmbeOUXaCF0J_JLXVOTsEQvhRVBAPUmV2iVTARORFMOAimzM4h4BVb0fnhFZ/s320/30766_386822139929_667359929_4035068_7609308_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZzabsIZpr1nMTgivJnUc7nplwNO0WsFJ6F1ZEXY8MEt-CPBKnXLOmRalC_NrRKqT5JvXSnbMlL6thRL89NmbIGIP2ZeTRilCTP9wJWHJzMJVEL4emamjGNpcr0n-cGocgfJ5b6U4WhVWl/s1600/30316_387304684929_667359929_4049604_4390843_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697140667192765970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZzabsIZpr1nMTgivJnUc7nplwNO0WsFJ6F1ZEXY8MEt-CPBKnXLOmRalC_NrRKqT5JvXSnbMlL6thRL89NmbIGIP2ZeTRilCTP9wJWHJzMJVEL4emamjGNpcr0n-cGocgfJ5b6U4WhVWl/s320/30316_387304684929_667359929_4049604_4390843_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 450px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 350px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVPS3aqQMjrHU3fvS6FrMYWXWmQLA0IyzZMoS-pbloQeN_pwo3LZ_858af0_APTtLHI6fz_iTa7GTGPSLCWhn2Du1883vXE7bzdlLRLA-jLSuph-QfjoJBcF5-X-5SOxyWm0GXg0V8p_ey/s1600/30316_387242439929_667359929_4047959_2038870_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697140658927293154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVPS3aqQMjrHU3fvS6FrMYWXWmQLA0IyzZMoS-pbloQeN_pwo3LZ_858af0_APTtLHI6fz_iTa7GTGPSLCWhn2Du1883vXE7bzdlLRLA-jLSuph-QfjoJBcF5-X-5SOxyWm0GXg0V8p_ey/s320/30316_387242439929_667359929_4047959_2038870_n.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Nevertheless, we have to satisfy our photo-taking mania fast because we still have two more islands to see. Hence, after several minutes of swimming and picture-taking we rode the boat again and headed to our next destinations, the <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/01/great-day-at-pundaquit-zambales-part-ii.html" target="_blank">Capones Island</a> and <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2012/01/great-day-at-san-antonio-zambales-part.html" target="_blank">Anawangin Cove</a>, which I will talk about in my next posts :) Ciao for now, more posts later.FIN.<br />
<br />
How to get to Pundaquit for those who would be commuting:<br />
1) Ride a bus (Victory Liner) from from Pasay, Cubao, Sampaloc or Caloocan going to Iba or Sta.Cruz, Zambales and get-off at San Antonio town proper. Fare is around P350.<br />
2) From San Antonio, ride a tricycle to Pundaquit or to your chosen beach resort destination. Rental of tricycle depends on your haggling skills, but it could be P30 to P50 per person. There are plenty of resorts to choose from. Jimz is just one of them.<br />
<br />
To Contact Jimz Beach Resort:<br />
+63 927-777-0220 (Albert Joe Veridiano (Toots)-Supervisor)<br />
+63 916-444-2172 (Miss Vilma Nazareno -Manager)<br />
Or you may just visit their website.Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-20973589702807957842012-01-10T02:39:00.016+08:002012-01-12T17:00:23.372+08:00My Binondo Trip: An Afternoon of Good Food with Good Friends<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapfQ4ubVLbPtMg0yRgTw3AaHw3Ie9oHMWTlyNSyh7wZ1HhNQ7UfffDbtTQhANUKplK7QBasE6G688iUc5rDv2aLTMROrKK9LSJ9QtWR_QoXHKyCx6rhyRlmeiBnjYrNwkI0s3S6VhAxZL/s1600/DSC00963.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapfQ4ubVLbPtMg0yRgTw3AaHw3Ie9oHMWTlyNSyh7wZ1HhNQ7UfffDbtTQhANUKplK7QBasE6G688iUc5rDv2aLTMROrKK9LSJ9QtWR_QoXHKyCx6rhyRlmeiBnjYrNwkI0s3S6VhAxZL/s320/DSC00963.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695518753351102306" /></a><br /><br />Hello again! I was gone for a while to focus on my review for the bar examination held last November 2011. The bar exam was the one-time-big-time, make-or-break EXAM of my life, so I had to pour all my energy and attention to that humongous quest. Nevertheless, the wanderlust still burned inside me. The desire to taste the fullness of life never ceased, so I ended up searching for simpler and smaller pleasures--those that are within my budget and will not take a long time. And, what better locations are there for a short rendezvous than those just within <span style="font-weight:bold;">Metro Manila</span>? <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT5_mwgPx8un7lDUJG16HUYyx6_btfb-OLAflSWCl0RyrypGdJJ2P7mUveuDu9JJdux38NuonjbHd3UwUHazRDvgTetKORODgOOhQCrB3a18pOAk3jBlwUo4iA1T8wmfMrRo6gMWiPZG68/s1600/DSC00965.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT5_mwgPx8un7lDUJG16HUYyx6_btfb-OLAflSWCl0RyrypGdJJ2P7mUveuDu9JJdux38NuonjbHd3UwUHazRDvgTetKORODgOOhQCrB3a18pOAk3jBlwUo4iA1T8wmfMrRo6gMWiPZG68/s320/DSC00965.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695518785757206850" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The wonderful busy streets of Binondo</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2k9ufp0EvopIcNk1-a8H6t2tQSP9hZxOuYZBkZOTdXGSbX0kehHlA0HshSfeHInCWMKHXm0QDFFxaZnS4fo2pXFBP-QsisY9rb7KsigOsSMrMByBwBRnKRwMi49lV6lMFAXcSWST8y7YD/s1600/DSC00955.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2k9ufp0EvopIcNk1-a8H6t2tQSP9hZxOuYZBkZOTdXGSbX0kehHlA0HshSfeHInCWMKHXm0QDFFxaZnS4fo2pXFBP-QsisY9rb7KsigOsSMrMByBwBRnKRwMi49lV6lMFAXcSWST8y7YD/s320/DSC00955.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695514200850146818" /></a><br /><br />Our bar review classes have just adjourned and Jessie, my friend and fellow reviewee, was about to go back to Naga City. Hence, we thought that we should fulfill our long-time dream of going on a <span style="font-weight:bold;">foodtrip</span> in <span style="font-weight:bold;">Binondo</span>, otherwise known as Manila's <span style="font-weight:bold;">Chinatown</span>. One Friday afternoon, we--Jessie, moi, Kendi (byahera's roommie) and Czarina Mae--just went ahead with the plan. From Katipunan, we took the LRT going to Recto and then from Recto, rode a jeepney. We alighted in front of the Sta. Cruz Church, offered some prayers for our exam and then searched for the gate going toward Binondo, which turned out to be right in front of the Church. <br />Ni Hao Binondo, here we come :)<br /> <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKZpM3S99POpXkRO1-2dTEgCi_uqq7WFO0bkaKokC4sSzr7AJos-Cd4yn7aWdz_9W0ICivdbqgpFGzZKEyHFxshBegCpQ3jFpolJYI2J6GO1Cji1MvoVJ2gbEFv23gVGcDp_GLTO0OBMAN/s1600/DSC00953.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKZpM3S99POpXkRO1-2dTEgCi_uqq7WFO0bkaKokC4sSzr7AJos-Cd4yn7aWdz_9W0ICivdbqgpFGzZKEyHFxshBegCpQ3jFpolJYI2J6GO1Cji1MvoVJ2gbEFv23gVGcDp_GLTO0OBMAN/s320/DSC00953.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695514197261635842" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">My adventurous, future lawyer friends: Jessie, Kends and Namie</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiSGxuZXpZmRwwHzoiORUZ4b8UUQVyk9Hge9Q_GjHOWrm635DrLj0tKdjk28x-VsqbwnF70mu9v9b62AwMX2PwdPWeAjReJqAGNJpHqBCNhHAWKt_RlXICHxwm62rmWij_zQw1UJdAIb69/s1600/DSC00964.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiSGxuZXpZmRwwHzoiORUZ4b8UUQVyk9Hge9Q_GjHOWrm635DrLj0tKdjk28x-VsqbwnF70mu9v9b62AwMX2PwdPWeAjReJqAGNJpHqBCNhHAWKt_RlXICHxwm62rmWij_zQw1UJdAIb69/s320/DSC00964.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695518773458196898" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Also a foodie and travel junkie: my roommate, Kends</span><br /><br />Binondo is simply one unique, marvelous place in Manila. It glaringly shows the strong Chinese influence over our country's history and culture. Being in Binondo is like being transported to another place (to China, where else? :p). Its streets are swarming with Chinese shops of all kinds! From stores for charms,Buddha figurines and fengshui-inspired displays, to kiosks selling fresh fruits, vegetables, Chinese streetfoods, hopia, fried siopao, sugar cane juice and dumplings--all these can be found in abundance in Binondo. It was a festive sight indeed and we were there in search for great foodie locations. Our first stop: Kim Hiong Food Garden, which is located near the entrance/exit of Binondo gate in front of the Sta.Cruz Church.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbJZLE7tQ7LuUsAO8MMGWrUCUStnkmY3as32ACd9OsycHJpziUOm7VngGZhH9QLqM8xO4YKrCIBxHq7NS2caH4YpZC37bgvICZueq7TtUZSnFtwS9PywZISiyqYbFOzCx2zv6CiYmfUbD/s1600/DSC00956.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbJZLE7tQ7LuUsAO8MMGWrUCUStnkmY3as32ACd9OsycHJpziUOm7VngGZhH9QLqM8xO4YKrCIBxHq7NS2caH4YpZC37bgvICZueq7TtUZSnFtwS9PywZISiyqYbFOzCx2zv6CiYmfUbD/s320/DSC00956.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695518750688120818" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"></span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Foodtrip Starter: Kim Hiong</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Ua-yyUpVjLWquAYeUKeAPM43k5sJ6AsnPm4y-25L8tcV6pvkWyz9IJ14yR6a2FZKS_MouPvuYMTROLUcALvpSgmyRxyK5LxE3jaVi6E65_KhcVPyVrFLqj1h7mniPRisDyz4FQUzajZM/s1600/DSC00960.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Ua-yyUpVjLWquAYeUKeAPM43k5sJ6AsnPm4y-25L8tcV6pvkWyz9IJ14yR6a2FZKS_MouPvuYMTROLUcALvpSgmyRxyK5LxE3jaVi6E65_KhcVPyVrFLqj1h7mniPRisDyz4FQUzajZM/s320/DSC00960.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695514217019724226" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Excited for the first bite</span><br /><br /><br />The menu contains an enormous variety (hundreds! perhaps) of food selections: noodles, rice toppings, soups, exotic cuisines (fried frog legs anyone?)...anything Chinese, you name it! We tried the restaurant's bestseller noodles according to one of its waiters, the stir fried beef noodles. I love the Chinese cooking at Kim Hiong. The <span style="font-style:italic;">pansit</span> (noodles) was so soft and the sauce, flavorful albeit a little oily. Imagine a plateful of teeming, freshly cooked noodles generously covered in rich sauce served in front of hungry diners. We finished it in minutes hehe. Anyways, that was just for starters; a sample of what lies ahead and we were excited to taste more. Our next stop: Waying Restaurant.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwPNR8FYE_kuI1QTWXjQY1rIseHC8u8ylidHA3LfBI5-wPxGIBY9ufIPkZ2ZZva7gk47JmXDfMHQLEkn-jfSbx7oCdULOaBQrSNBgTQ1Vrf8MkEPUKUT38XuGpPk2ZHd-Y_wRdE6-iHJZN/s1600/DSC00961.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwPNR8FYE_kuI1QTWXjQY1rIseHC8u8ylidHA3LfBI5-wPxGIBY9ufIPkZ2ZZva7gk47JmXDfMHQLEkn-jfSbx7oCdULOaBQrSNBgTQ1Vrf8MkEPUKUT38XuGpPk2ZHd-Y_wRdE6-iHJZN/s320/DSC00961.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695514222286479458" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Expectations met!</span><br /><br />To those who would be going to Binondo, Waying is a must! On the outside, Waying looks like a really old restaurant. I'm reminded of a place where grannies love to have their morning tea and rice cakes or afternoon chats over a large bowl of hot noodle soup. It doesn't have the sleek and sophisticated look of modern Chinese restaurants. But, as the saying goes, don't be deceived by appearances! Waying is in fact a foodie haven. Seriously. It serves a great variety of delicious dumplings, noodles and rice meals that are all reasonably priced and are relatively affordable. If our budget will only allow, we would have tried so much more. However, being the cash-strapped reviewees, we settled with our best choices (and decided to just go back someday to try the rest hehe): hakaw - P60, shark's fin dimsum - P60, pork dimsum- P60, kebab - P60, chicken mami- P100, beef wanton mami- P100, and milk tea - P45.<br /> <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigVHp88llaZMUcbSCHQhseFPhSpyuhmpD4BWnoYUG7ZmY7A912zNv3v_11F-FPiZZZ0LtgtOpL_yr0gl8pEeBEqJB1wwKN7krSfEmC5wTPIsNCb6rAI5uLdpLZIce5XOWa9X1AMaIvUok5/s1600/DSC00969.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigVHp88llaZMUcbSCHQhseFPhSpyuhmpD4BWnoYUG7ZmY7A912zNv3v_11F-FPiZZZ0LtgtOpL_yr0gl8pEeBEqJB1wwKN7krSfEmC5wTPIsNCb6rAI5uLdpLZIce5XOWa9X1AMaIvUok5/s320/DSC00969.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695523006245848354" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmfnBJYxI6byg8hwb_YafHD2pG6VVZCO9zjcCm_skfc4tInajCuE6dHf3dxvYo5EoLI3sV4Z1l-5x5kfWjmt-4vXem06uEhEhvIPqfdrypp2xgzWi6lSOHqHhFtygvRoN0tD5d7v8PJvX/s1600/DSC00968.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmfnBJYxI6byg8hwb_YafHD2pG6VVZCO9zjcCm_skfc4tInajCuE6dHf3dxvYo5EoLI3sV4Z1l-5x5kfWjmt-4vXem06uEhEhvIPqfdrypp2xgzWi6lSOHqHhFtygvRoN0tD5d7v8PJvX/s320/DSC00968.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695523001683515250" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmDeQBoVia5rzarCwLVxUBJfCJsHKEdRY6OGOND_rYdH3yq0CABkfRUIr4jcH6CaYStu2xHrJzfBc2mCJZdNq63Bm9KY-_YTegnH5YtAa-qxZbdbUgF3RJ47bTsCXpzfMMoIFnjQ-ZcSu/s1600/DSC00967.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmDeQBoVia5rzarCwLVxUBJfCJsHKEdRY6OGOND_rYdH3yq0CABkfRUIr4jcH6CaYStu2xHrJzfBc2mCJZdNq63Bm9KY-_YTegnH5YtAa-qxZbdbUgF3RJ47bTsCXpzfMMoIFnjQ-ZcSu/s320/DSC00967.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695522991661732930" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Will definitely try these specialties next time</span><br /><br />The dumplings were really great! Fast food dumplings or those which you can buy from foodcarts in malls don't even compare...Waying's was the real deal. The ingredients are fresh and they have none of those extenders added in commercialized foods.The noodles...mmmm...so hot and filling (I'm sorry I didn't have a photo, as I was already too busy eating hehe). Also, the milk tea was yummy and refreshing. It has the right blend of creaminess, sweetness and that earthy flavor of tea. Hay, I'm running out of adjectives hehe, so just better try it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxOGEZw2Xp8yLEXZGUWC-gyP_tp8AjeSYZN41Fb-a3zwhx5wlNIa0DWp7xmlXuudXA21MM5hZSqf22TM1GzXVBAInRQT7Iez4qwaECay6eYToAOdN_WRLz1hCCpmlXqCuTy7gOcY2auHI/s1600/DSC00970.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxOGEZw2Xp8yLEXZGUWC-gyP_tp8AjeSYZN41Fb-a3zwhx5wlNIa0DWp7xmlXuudXA21MM5hZSqf22TM1GzXVBAInRQT7Iez4qwaECay6eYToAOdN_WRLz1hCCpmlXqCuTy7gOcY2auHI/s320/DSC00970.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695523012089372866" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Galit-galit muna hehe</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUzVOXWPCNRrXH5Kvle-gKDYwzRws9GAPxXlL_oQTOCe6KJqBDMhIJkR7SeFlvomM-ZvUW_V0b3e2KaOU6iHwsRktGZZjl9q0ZHuKgLBnpCT3jNejkWLT6NEcup6Nmin9Pefc132Uddpo/s1600/DSC00966.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUzVOXWPCNRrXH5Kvle-gKDYwzRws9GAPxXlL_oQTOCe6KJqBDMhIJkR7SeFlvomM-ZvUW_V0b3e2KaOU6iHwsRktGZZjl9q0ZHuKgLBnpCT3jNejkWLT6NEcup6Nmin9Pefc132Uddpo/s320/DSC00966.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695522986062591986" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">I heart this place</span><br /><br /><br />Before we went home, we decided to give the <span style="font-style:italic;">kalesa/caretela</span> a try since Namie confided that she hasn't been in one. For P300, it wasn't worth it. The manong driver just toured us around the maze of streets in Chinatown, the ride barely lasted thirty minutes. Anyways, if it made us happy...oh well just charge it to experience.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjGey3SjsdGg04TALwKaGMEgZN8IJvz61o3mt_9FiEGE3rtOAgQBd3zPPcp5rS5f5kVDpKwEf5m8QrJD7rPZo4BKW1KzkC_dx9FJx-nl0KroBHw_tLUzwRk2XeNXpVa3SRrbZopxkyJAw/s1600/DSC00973.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjGey3SjsdGg04TALwKaGMEgZN8IJvz61o3mt_9FiEGE3rtOAgQBd3zPPcp5rS5f5kVDpKwEf5m8QrJD7rPZo4BKW1KzkC_dx9FJx-nl0KroBHw_tLUzwRk2XeNXpVa3SRrbZopxkyJAw/s320/DSC00973.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695545335536026994" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIj28e8BE-W8Bk5gMCzrjvI3ugJo5gFBle2L5tXZwJoYdfllHQHUdmvFCLJWbO8aQhe5ilSOJwwJFNrKkPIrkvOMV1sLjm5lrI0Yp2WnaElm8WqfGSbPQrDLSEH4BWrCVLHtslWgyE52-r/s1600/DSC00971.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIj28e8BE-W8Bk5gMCzrjvI3ugJo5gFBle2L5tXZwJoYdfllHQHUdmvFCLJWbO8aQhe5ilSOJwwJFNrKkPIrkvOMV1sLjm5lrI0Yp2WnaElm8WqfGSbPQrDLSEH4BWrCVLHtslWgyE52-r/s320/DSC00971.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695545336072350162" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Kalesa photos taken by a shaky hand :)</span><br /><br /><br />Also, don't forget to try <span style="font-weight:bold;">fried siopao</span>! It's one of Binondo's specialties and it's just P15 :) We paired ours with <span style="font-weight:bold;">milk tea</span>. I could have easily gobbled two, but I'm quite satisfied already. I made a mental note to buy some fruits from the street vendors, and also sugar cane and sugar cane juice but in our rush to get home before dark I forgot all about it. At least we get to shop for <span style="font-style:italic;">tikoy</span> and other Chinese <span style="font-style:italic;">kakanin</span> as <span style="font-style:italic;">pasalubong</span> to our other housemate, Chris, who couldn't be with us.Truly, one afternoon is not enough to fully enjoy all the goodies that Binondo has to offer to foodies. Then again, there is always a next time. <br /><br />Who would, in the middle of a review--for the bar exam no less--come up with the idea of going to Binondo out of sheer fun of a foodtrip adventure? Well, we did hehe. Just when I thought that I'd be <span style="font-style:italic;">byahera</span> no more, my friends and I, all exhausted from the pressure of the upcoming bar exam, came up with such spur-of-the-moment <span style="font-style:italic;">lakwatsa</span>. The good thing is that it made us really, really, really guilty that we had to make up for the lost study time and catch up and double our reading the following day =) Yet overall, the Binondo trip did us good. The trip was definitely the break I needed during the review and indeed, helped keep my sanity.Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-14508373077086491852011-02-23T15:31:00.006+08:002012-01-09T13:44:51.233+08:00BOHOL! My Dream Trip on a Budget (Part II)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB04aRaSWWf0kj-_ZuFGaxn_Q9eOfJuXR-EnOnjVtQp3U9TmhxjxnZ0qvk4rVlwzWbQYj03IBEfwCKtmxao2ApeAjGtVNrUA7xtafijMd3nwXnEG4t9N25G34gpKQ4Z9ZstNKpSkhpy85s/s1600/9427_131333116862_518786862_3033756_4472827_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB04aRaSWWf0kj-_ZuFGaxn_Q9eOfJuXR-EnOnjVtQp3U9TmhxjxnZ0qvk4rVlwzWbQYj03IBEfwCKtmxao2ApeAjGtVNrUA7xtafijMd3nwXnEG4t9N25G34gpKQ4Z9ZstNKpSkhpy85s/s320/9427_131333116862_518786862_3033756_4472827_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576810310185327202" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Virgin Island, Bohol, Philippines</span><br /><br />Yours truly,biyahera, together with travel buddies Lheila, Pyke and Squall had an uber time touring <span style="font-weight:bold;">Bohol</span> on our day trip (<a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2011/01/bohol-my-dream-trip-on-budget-part-i.html">previous post</a>),the second half of the trip--the island hopping part--however, seals the deal. While the road trip showed us the cultural and natural wonders of the island, we saw the other marvels of Bohol--its beaches, dolphins, and amazing marine wealth--during our island hopping, dolphin watching and snorkeling trip the following day. Bohol is truly one of the best places in the Philippines that boasts of beautiful white sand beaches. It also has a marine sanctuary that is a must-see to snorkeling or diving enthusiasts. Anyways, for our island hopping trip, our itinerary was: 1) dolphin-watching, 2) snorkeling at <span style="font-weight:bold;">Balicasag Island</span>, and finally, 3) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Virgin Island</span>. The duration of the tour: half-day. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz34izF3jxp6uYU-WpUdj6R-TWz32tPU-Rx3pAE45-vmLEonWACqTwtHDnNRNd8j6DbNYk3KesjPtQCT30qqH95YyavzXUO-omTDnRbZZV3E_QaAvyGXli4VBe3F5gSKyvY33vNFBNdQlb/s1600/9135_1268004979622_1214744218_30876770_2773182_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz34izF3jxp6uYU-WpUdj6R-TWz32tPU-Rx3pAE45-vmLEonWACqTwtHDnNRNd8j6DbNYk3KesjPtQCT30qqH95YyavzXUO-omTDnRbZZV3E_QaAvyGXli4VBe3F5gSKyvY33vNFBNdQlb/s320/9135_1268004979622_1214744218_30876770_2773182_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576932042700163458" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The author, @Dumaluan Beach Resort</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeH9DDNPN67mxbROcN0V8osWBoWSp9ueC4kKBvmIpnjqEQOSz-vxadHIFUYy4GBYOXoq8lELSw6vZHSKYxgw400lw6EMzTT5ToRWFrdaOmemvZJxGR8Pj_-E1eiBruMnxv3b8bF3rQQMVD/s1600/9135_1268008499710_1214744218_30876854_3259043_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeH9DDNPN67mxbROcN0V8osWBoWSp9ueC4kKBvmIpnjqEQOSz-vxadHIFUYy4GBYOXoq8lELSw6vZHSKYxgw400lw6EMzTT5ToRWFrdaOmemvZJxGR8Pj_-E1eiBruMnxv3b8bF3rQQMVD/s320/9135_1268008499710_1214744218_30876854_3259043_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587880738942421618" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV9KoM2pBTa12o-hbnVKPXQhC01uT5KEIFZuPxQXAfNnsOwL5NsaSsiYP2ON9OwfvmgCI5XS52H-tLsPHQs9UBDB6AqNmY0-HHyB-WcxltS8IW6mB1IeLyz783uaDHbC4nKi9HVZeLZGyj/s1600/9135_1268008899720_1214744218_30876864_3613940_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV9KoM2pBTa12o-hbnVKPXQhC01uT5KEIFZuPxQXAfNnsOwL5NsaSsiYP2ON9OwfvmgCI5XS52H-tLsPHQs9UBDB6AqNmY0-HHyB-WcxltS8IW6mB1IeLyz783uaDHbC4nKi9HVZeLZGyj/s320/9135_1268008899720_1214744218_30876864_3613940_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587880737984012706" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Dumaluan Beach Resort</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_K8sRvsrh8VRfnwjLEnBph4sgPRbj5CO81DA-8MvQ_OJ2nyPmMqaDN6EGVNSfyCJTkreolIxJS_L3DjID9OWN4scOCN_Gh2d54mVo2B5e2Zb1qeQlq9zRQbS2IXm5mxvlyf1wIqnd_fgl/s1600/9427_131333281862_518786862_3033784_2753149_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_K8sRvsrh8VRfnwjLEnBph4sgPRbj5CO81DA-8MvQ_OJ2nyPmMqaDN6EGVNSfyCJTkreolIxJS_L3DjID9OWN4scOCN_Gh2d54mVo2B5e2Zb1qeQlq9zRQbS2IXm5mxvlyf1wIqnd_fgl/s320/9427_131333281862_518786862_3033784_2753149_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576919213484692786" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"Our" bahay-kubo...</span><br /><br />Our day started early. As per previous post, we spent the night at <span style="font-weight:bold;">Dumaluan Beach Resort</span>. The place was full-packed with picnickers but luckily, we were able to avail of one of the resort's tree houses for an uber cheap price of PHP 1,200. Dumaluan is, how should I call it..."<span style="font-style:italic;">pang-masa</span>", which is just OK with me by the way.Nevertheless, the resort also has its classier sections that cater to tourists with discriminating tastes and, unlike us, are not on a tight budget hehe. Anyways, more than having a tolerably comfortable accommodation, what matters to me is that it has a nice shoreline and a beautiful beach. <span style="font-style:italic;">Solved na ako dun!</span> <br /><br />I texted the boat operator that would take us on island-hopping and settled with the PHP1,500 price for a half-day boat rental. Before 6AM, the boat arrived at the shores of Dumaluan Resort. Kudos for being on time! The tourists, on the other hand, were late. Blame it on the alcoholic drinks we had the night before hehe...Anyways, the boat operator was just fine with it and was very patient, but I want to iterate that it is <span style="font-weight:bold;">very important to leave really early for dolphin watching</span> since dolphins are only around early in the morning.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjLgdHZqfSy_UFSUTpJsisosYfGq3pqhhSK9agQW3IlaaeHh7RGxwSZqqdrq55P8SJs4clGXGQnOUPizLNnwlHv1X19UIpb4HdOF9HM6ti8on7v0qAvRkhoOaoxgNIrp5Sv9qpqCEkdR3d/s1600/9427_131333016862_518786862_3033740_5426843_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjLgdHZqfSy_UFSUTpJsisosYfGq3pqhhSK9agQW3IlaaeHh7RGxwSZqqdrq55P8SJs4clGXGQnOUPizLNnwlHv1X19UIpb4HdOF9HM6ti8on7v0qAvRkhoOaoxgNIrp5Sv9qpqCEkdR3d/s320/9427_131333016862_518786862_3033740_5426843_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576936555254673602" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Island hopping time! :) </span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2T0LV7kRwuhhyphenhyphenaJgvzJZy7r7iy7Aaayly7yJtwMi5rrhlcTcLbKyZGGU2XWx0upK1W7_DidCM3QKEd-rBCfJbiX59skcqcZK_riaO3jL1QoejHq0EcJ5AL8LmZnqoOBB2jaKAf7dyAULg/s1600/9135_1268008219703_1214744218_30876848_6800455_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2T0LV7kRwuhhyphenhyphenaJgvzJZy7r7iy7Aaayly7yJtwMi5rrhlcTcLbKyZGGU2XWx0upK1W7_DidCM3QKEd-rBCfJbiX59skcqcZK_riaO3jL1QoejHq0EcJ5AL8LmZnqoOBB2jaKAf7dyAULg/s320/9135_1268008219703_1214744218_30876848_6800455_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576936551642812050" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVV9s5Q1yW7xiaXUiSU-UePXnYshzkvdk00Wf3kUFOr2F5cZHIgx5qLNROeM-H9iSrJ9GAd5-F-88JSW9dHj0Lv-a_wajbZoB4jUsO3uYnJj0XxPsg-yRBhhIpd5KMt2q47Jqm_z5Ek74/s1600/9135_1268005699640_1214744218_30876788_2084524_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVV9s5Q1yW7xiaXUiSU-UePXnYshzkvdk00Wf3kUFOr2F5cZHIgx5qLNROeM-H9iSrJ9GAd5-F-88JSW9dHj0Lv-a_wajbZoB4jUsO3uYnJj0XxPsg-yRBhhIpd5KMt2q47Jqm_z5Ek74/s320/9135_1268005699640_1214744218_30876788_2084524_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576936547827111026" /></a><br /><br />As we headed to the dolphin-watching location, there were over a dozen other boats that time each one containing a group of tourists. The water was so wave-y that our boat was rocking as if we were all in a see-saw. The ride is not for the fainthearted, but just OK for those who love adventure. As for us, we wouldn't be intimidated by the strong waves and miss the fun ahead of us.<br /><br />Our first agenda was to watch dolphins and we were not disappointed! We saw several short-snouted spinner dolphins, which, according to our <span style="font-style:italic;">bangkero</span> slash tour guide, are the common species in the wild. My only disappointment was that I didn't have a techie camera to capture the fast movements of the dolphins which were emerging in and out of the water with great speed.It was amazing to see the dolphins even from a short distance and our boat was filled with "oohhhs...", "galing!" and "ayun pa!" from me and my equally excited companions.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTM6sOwyxqoNClPEvytRfgn0UvvQh5axOg6Qf51mxn68T-hw9ga6wtAHR2Do7BkykvWoSeFVZd64Ld_mQ-GFzulJfkE2O1RqK41OtDoFTEvL8-9yHleizL3415aAqYCA0HQ3XH_SHd0cB/s1600/9427_131332991862_518786862_3033736_733208_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTM6sOwyxqoNClPEvytRfgn0UvvQh5axOg6Qf51mxn68T-hw9ga6wtAHR2Do7BkykvWoSeFVZd64Ld_mQ-GFzulJfkE2O1RqK41OtDoFTEvL8-9yHleizL3415aAqYCA0HQ3XH_SHd0cB/s320/9427_131332991862_518786862_3033736_733208_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587877248386568114" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Dolphins delight! :)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihBjlC1CLfBNtlNquBriwBGxBZLNKaLYIJ5xIPo6HgUxDfJ8PToEG61DtgRhzR8v2VI20LRdNT4ZqvfIQmoonYFO5mON3es6F36dTq1k8ryTtluyiUNvGSfxErXm5hXfL5T11aFB6vftnu/s1600/9427_131333006862_518786862_3033738_3278024_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihBjlC1CLfBNtlNquBriwBGxBZLNKaLYIJ5xIPo6HgUxDfJ8PToEG61DtgRhzR8v2VI20LRdNT4ZqvfIQmoonYFO5mON3es6F36dTq1k8ryTtluyiUNvGSfxErXm5hXfL5T11aFB6vftnu/s320/9427_131333006862_518786862_3033738_3278024_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587877245114846722" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8mX-HEon5ABxGsR28AJrONDyPE6bniFqGhYo46dWp3kLfMmDqmAphmLcGgCEHqkxKUBjyk8VyJUPb9nV7WLxKQkfz297xlfNeUcTtAHWnMnGcqoK71138u6VvmoZLsKnUU2ZEvsrlRVp/s1600/9427_131332996862_518786862_3033737_747230_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8mX-HEon5ABxGsR28AJrONDyPE6bniFqGhYo46dWp3kLfMmDqmAphmLcGgCEHqkxKUBjyk8VyJUPb9nV7WLxKQkfz297xlfNeUcTtAHWnMnGcqoK71138u6VvmoZLsKnUU2ZEvsrlRVp/s320/9427_131332996862_518786862_3033737_747230_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587877239320824722" /></a><br /><br /><br />When the sun was shining brightly already, we noticed that our dolphin-sighting was almost nil. It was time to proceed to <span style="font-style:italic;">Balicasag Island</span> for snorkeling. Balicasag is a protected fish sanctuary, hence large boats are not allowed to go near because their anchors might damage the corals underneath. Instead, small row boats big enough to carry two to three persons came to fetch the tourists from their respective tour boats (fee is approx PHP200). The smaller row boat took us to the actual snorkeling site, but before that we were provided with life vests and snorkels which we rented for a minimal fee (approx P100, I think).<br /><br />The view underneath the water was amazing!It would have been great to capture the view, but unfortunately, none of us had an underwater camera. Anyways, I think it is just imperative now to preserve and protect such wonderful natural wonder as Balicasag Island. For snorkeling aficionados, Balicasag is worth a visit; for those who are not a big fan, it is worth a try.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVRT1lEPTggoteg3dUzJBuHvq6LRJvzPsCWrlEQa7h2DzywFvS-IFMIaQuqA_r0Dr_JzXh3AL_1lxGEbMtMDpzSOwbXPj6xpYQyFJMI5Ew1hSouVDk1KWu2nqWIak5xnyxAVAPmdShcgA/s1600/9135_1268005419633_1214744218_30876781_5133097_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVRT1lEPTggoteg3dUzJBuHvq6LRJvzPsCWrlEQa7h2DzywFvS-IFMIaQuqA_r0Dr_JzXh3AL_1lxGEbMtMDpzSOwbXPj6xpYQyFJMI5Ew1hSouVDk1KWu2nqWIak5xnyxAVAPmdShcgA/s320/9135_1268005419633_1214744218_30876781_5133097_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587881621130040242" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The tropa, just finished with their snorkeling</span><br /><br />After Balicasag Island, we proceeded to our last stop--the Virgin Island. Virgin Island has a long sand bar, which is actually the centerpiece, so to speak, of the island. The sand is fine and white, the waters blue...a real beauty...Need I say more? :) <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn9zkTuXM4Dit87-LJjgKQrMLcmue_olaQy7hcjEoj36Oc0sXXtOlXRjz7_TZpytbmeQLNU05jrT4ohLDfhbLfZBzoCMqBDnPV9pmIfofacPthgRg5LInmdt4SZtnG7vYUwC1aTgNwJlcR/s1600/9427_131333146862_518786862_3033762_6431839_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn9zkTuXM4Dit87-LJjgKQrMLcmue_olaQy7hcjEoj36Oc0sXXtOlXRjz7_TZpytbmeQLNU05jrT4ohLDfhbLfZBzoCMqBDnPV9pmIfofacPthgRg5LInmdt4SZtnG7vYUwC1aTgNwJlcR/s320/9427_131333146862_518786862_3033762_6431839_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587882377486343970" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Virgin Island: a Paradisaic Get-away</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEqjNFtxN-u0_bi88XWBkVneEoLpsyMLmSNEMYMafT3T8hyphenhyphenMBIPojkFwmNCrWrqbuQoImixEThjEQzzyyBc6zCZ9gT7zVpHAQK0rDtukbuKFOuycUKAiifWiMP1R0FaAINLOuToGhTiQhQ/s1600/9135_1268007659689_1214744218_30876834_1655000_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEqjNFtxN-u0_bi88XWBkVneEoLpsyMLmSNEMYMafT3T8hyphenhyphenMBIPojkFwmNCrWrqbuQoImixEThjEQzzyyBc6zCZ9gT7zVpHAQK0rDtukbuKFOuycUKAiifWiMP1R0FaAINLOuToGhTiQhQ/s320/9135_1268007659689_1214744218_30876834_1655000_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587882374812109714" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Vacaay Mode :)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXLVi2OD7a9wJIAI6jMDPR9nYQCo9DyU2V_v9WA9qKskRhFAmCMCk-LrOPYGXV5W8YPcvurSckyJHaFMubO6RvklJf09iF1_KtOC_-HMIzAnv8O-wmljsXWkc7PWH-pzcdjxBRW1iNjlhb/s1600/9427_131333256862_518786862_3033780_5184081_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXLVi2OD7a9wJIAI6jMDPR9nYQCo9DyU2V_v9WA9qKskRhFAmCMCk-LrOPYGXV5W8YPcvurSckyJHaFMubO6RvklJf09iF1_KtOC_-HMIzAnv8O-wmljsXWkc7PWH-pzcdjxBRW1iNjlhb/s320/9427_131333256862_518786862_3033780_5184081_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587882374458845986" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Starfishes!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOw82MMNBrZEH4pKvbSfnSNdNh5fHqaXlJ8jjOkMPFMpOnKCMnngEzd_PfQmn4HKrW_AOwirlehBlpUWrnggCUfM4gOloYM0-npZbxKOKC4U5Kxdvz1OOw9rZtElelGy_0M6gH3r5Dt0ag/s1600/9427_131333081862_518786862_3033751_7678394_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOw82MMNBrZEH4pKvbSfnSNdNh5fHqaXlJ8jjOkMPFMpOnKCMnngEzd_PfQmn4HKrW_AOwirlehBlpUWrnggCUfM4gOloYM0-npZbxKOKC4U5Kxdvz1OOw9rZtElelGy_0M6gH3r5Dt0ag/s320/9427_131333081862_518786862_3033751_7678394_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587882368303038242" /></a><br /><br />Virgin Island was a perfect vacation-ender, although any of the places we've been to in Bohol would be great as well. In fact, Bohol, as I've already stated several times, is one of the best places in the Philippines. Hopefully, I get the chance to come back some day to visit the other beautiful spots that could no longer be squeezed in in our two-day budget Bohol trip. This is it for now :) <span style="font-weight:bold;">FIN</span>.Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-40829865570242968302011-01-19T14:50:00.001+08:002012-03-25T22:44:18.202+08:00BOHOL! My Dream Trip On a Budget :) Part I<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiZgTIwNzmTl0gSnR5u4M87etI8z_aMzTmrXUfSYCuqtWGEfJkxY9zNeFFnyykigYmVg5dFlZq2pOfemgnIJI1kKP8DWhtzfdXyBBQTLqU7Z5leP4HBWyvItn5P4eQW-Smq5RC1dNbdM5n/s1600/9135_1268004419608_1214744218_30876756_7285691_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563770030269653138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiZgTIwNzmTl0gSnR5u4M87etI8z_aMzTmrXUfSYCuqtWGEfJkxY9zNeFFnyykigYmVg5dFlZq2pOfemgnIJI1kKP8DWhtzfdXyBBQTLqU7Z5leP4HBWyvItn5P4eQW-Smq5RC1dNbdM5n/s400/9135_1268004419608_1214744218_30876756_7285691_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Author--Relaxed and Happy at the Bohol Bee Farm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
(Pls. click on image for larger view. Special thanks to Lheila and Pyke for the pictures.)<br />
<br />
My <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bohol</span> trip was sort of a dream-come-true vaca for me. I've been planning to go there way back in college since a very close college friend, Dorothy, is a Boholana who has been intriguing and enticing me with stories of her beautiful home province. I cannot wait to lay my <span style="font-style: italic;">biyahera </span>feet on Bohol's soils. Hence, the morning we left <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/11/cebu-my-brief-flirtation-with-queen.html">Cebu</a> for Tagbilaran, my usually lethargic, nocturnal body snapped to wakefulness 4AM sharp, at the sound of my alarm. Yup, I was darn excited! Tired and still slightly sleepy, but happy and excited.<br />
<br />
As per my <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/11/cebu-my-brief-flirtation-with-queen.html">previous post</a>, we first went to Cebu before heading to Tagbilaran in order to save on airline fare. While in Cebu, we paid a visit to the Basilica del Sto. Nino, strolled around the city, bought Santo Ninos and other trinkets as pasalubong, stopped by at SM Cebu and spent the night at La Guardia Hotel.The following morning, we headed to Tagbilaran via a fast craft. We checked out of La Guardia Hotel before 5AM (yup, I've learned how to take 15-minute showers) and immediately hailed a taxi to the port. We arrived at the port still early for our 6AM trip.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU28gklLrFVYPnhNTaCj2h8ccTtg3DvQ_6EX-suhRxKdLhRz_uJrdvABaoAzbfCTNTokdNwz02u0Q39ECMRc1i9eyvIQ64P4yJDdaC-grqtzsCoCbtIVebX6KuDKY-gpXWaN2P0XpgHwWR/s1600/DSC00549.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544492997433393154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU28gklLrFVYPnhNTaCj2h8ccTtg3DvQ_6EX-suhRxKdLhRz_uJrdvABaoAzbfCTNTokdNwz02u0Q39ECMRc1i9eyvIQ64P4yJDdaC-grqtzsCoCbtIVebX6KuDKY-gpXWaN2P0XpgHwWR/s400/DSC00549.JPG" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Ride from Cebu to Tagbilaran</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now back to the subject matter, we bought our ticket from Oceanjet, although there are other carriers offering Cebu-Tagbilaran-Cebu trips such Weesam and Supercat. Fare rate among these three is similar. We had ours for PHP500.00 (one way) but you can get tickets at super lower price if you book earlier. The fast craft, by the way, was quite comfy even though we were only at the regular air-con area. I believe, there's a 'deluxe' area where fare is higher. Rows of cushioned chairs filled the craft and we chose those nearer the front. There are also fold-able mini-tables for eating and a large screen TV in front, which, at that time, was playing re-runs of Pacquiao fights.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uM3LDq-CsyqJucBAWDtAo_QpnyR3L67o5fAfa7m3TeWCIyS0eyxtaUjgl8IXHM7jA1GTlNfG9D9oQHfm1yCit_XSLDMua9gcZFMgX0uGcaSNP-bweog6FG5tn5drgUumpJTGw3KIqCBg/s1600/9135_1265346153153_1214744218_30866431_968068_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543890527840661522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uM3LDq-CsyqJucBAWDtAo_QpnyR3L67o5fAfa7m3TeWCIyS0eyxtaUjgl8IXHM7jA1GTlNfG9D9oQHfm1yCit_XSLDMua9gcZFMgX0uGcaSNP-bweog6FG5tn5drgUumpJTGw3KIqCBg/s400/9135_1265346153153_1214744218_30866431_968068_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early AM D-I-Y Tourists: On board Oceanjet, on the way to Tagbilaran</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Cebu-Tagbilaran trip lasted around one-and-a-half (1&1/2) hours, enough for us to catch up on sleep. Luckily, the weather was good that our trip was also smooth and fast. When I woke up, I can see the silhouette of the island already. Prior our trip, by the way, I've already contacted Kuya Ranil, one of the many tour providers, for car rental. He was to be our sundo-driver-guide. The rental we've agreed upon was PHP2,000.00 for an entire day of touring. It was a good deal, the car being a new Toyota Avanza, so we were quite comfy inside, plus the driver agreed to make stopovers along the way as we please and to take us to the place where we intend to stay. Anyways, so sweet of Kuya Ranil--he was constantly instructing us even before we left Cebu and when we arrived at the port, was already waiting for us. We arrived at the port at 8AM and requested to drop-by at McDonald's first to buy breakfast which we ate along the way.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtvsLOwHb_zd0agztQpIvbkeSSMwIYElGkul5Dn94g6zxWLRzDK6Hxgtyz3koYk07nCximSWVPZVZyXqYkiz-AKdi2Q37K9oKnrsAVJIi1dAnpzsKtL-nEAh9hSG9htKrfjd6Bgdwm0GR/s1600/9135_1265346193154_1214744218_30866432_2492347_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543890530936709890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtvsLOwHb_zd0agztQpIvbkeSSMwIYElGkul5Dn94g6zxWLRzDK6Hxgtyz3koYk07nCximSWVPZVZyXqYkiz-AKdi2Q37K9oKnrsAVJIi1dAnpzsKtL-nEAh9hSG9htKrfjd6Bgdwm0GR/s400/9135_1265346193154_1214744218_30866432_2492347_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arrival at the Port of Tagbilaran</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our itinerary for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">DAY TOUR</span> was:<br />
1) Hanging Bridge of Bilar <br />
2) Chocolate Hills at Carmen <br />
3) Man-Made Forest<br />
4) Loboc River Cruise<br />
5) Tarsier Sight-seeing<br />
6) The "Real" Blood Compact Site in Loay<br />
7) Prony the Python at Alburqueque<br />
8) Baclayon Church<br />
9) the Sandugo Shrine<br />
10) Bohol Bee Farm <br />
11) Dumaluan Beach Resort <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg263u2nRL25-811cZSqExoBI804odzTIddlz7bbo3njFxdTpejewhGZjOgRbCI-ljmYnpYJltlaj4qptHd5bd1VPnDdIkzeSANhuhsTTVu1QnNhpVme5YBvuUrqd2agK4ShboYsANSWYod/s1600/bohol-map.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="327" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563769566982257298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg263u2nRL25-811cZSqExoBI804odzTIddlz7bbo3njFxdTpejewhGZjOgRbCI-ljmYnpYJltlaj4qptHd5bd1VPnDdIkzeSANhuhsTTVu1QnNhpVme5YBvuUrqd2agK4ShboYsANSWYod/s400/bohol-map.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Map of Bohol<span style="font-style: italic;"></span> </span> (taken from http://www.bohol.ph/map.php) <br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">1. The Hanging Bridge of Bilar</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwiEiF5IK-H0GDhQ1kHvpEPug5IGZIWyP0bP02K7WkT2ZCHdOG4fVdE5AsmsjMIG0I6Y5A3-3x6TxApNnfPxw21F8xbO-cmYaKB0kR9JFmuemz4Ng6Kkw1eocL_gnfgWGZjd_HNyDm3LUl/s1600/9135_1265349073226_1214744218_30866449_7127975_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546117839719505122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwiEiF5IK-H0GDhQ1kHvpEPug5IGZIWyP0bP02K7WkT2ZCHdOG4fVdE5AsmsjMIG0I6Y5A3-3x6TxApNnfPxw21F8xbO-cmYaKB0kR9JFmuemz4Ng6Kkw1eocL_gnfgWGZjd_HNyDm3LUl/s400/9135_1265349073226_1214744218_30866449_7127975_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lheila, at the Hanging Bridge of Bilar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The famed hanging bridge is made of bamboo strips woven together to create a bridge floor. It hangs right above the Loboc River. While crossing the length of the bridge, one gets the chance to enjoy the refreshing view of the calm, green-colored river--unless of course you have a fear of heights and creaky bridges! Part of the excitement of crossing the bridge is that it creaks and heaves underneath the weight of the persons crossing it;it also wobbles mildly. Anyways, the bridge spans several meters from near the roadside to the other end where there are a number of <span style="font-style: italic;">pasalubong</span> shops and from where we bought dozens of peanut kisses, Bohol's specialty sweets made from egg whites and peanuts. Yum.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAd6wj49vpTshXwz8hHrA6HRgjtVCi_SIjJT32UacBQLa7LhFVvdCzRinT4pnqizZeYDVaYpHQVVCYIbrT2J5xktKmhzRPJL9O-BL9GTyDSuqyjQwjHfzzs8GaKtRKqRkpigheljkFOvtI/s1600/9135_1265350913272_1214744218_30866467_2697091_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546117833970136738" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAd6wj49vpTshXwz8hHrA6HRgjtVCi_SIjJT32UacBQLa7LhFVvdCzRinT4pnqizZeYDVaYpHQVVCYIbrT2J5xktKmhzRPJL9O-BL9GTyDSuqyjQwjHfzzs8GaKtRKqRkpigheljkFOvtI/s320/9135_1265350913272_1214744218_30866467_2697091_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLDU2PmnMLfEpdieF7TpACtGV5y2slofbdKZT9yiD-_gNUk5DFJt31T-zbTnvJ8dBB0yk1YKDUpD7XHtBKWx0VgjexiKXSaMnNyuUmVmgn484y2cXL0_PwAjf71-Yj33dAXjZCEpEulaCy/s1600/9135_1265347993199_1214744218_30866439_7910614_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="299" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546117836275441458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLDU2PmnMLfEpdieF7TpACtGV5y2slofbdKZT9yiD-_gNUk5DFJt31T-zbTnvJ8dBB0yk1YKDUpD7XHtBKWx0VgjexiKXSaMnNyuUmVmgn484y2cXL0_PwAjf71-Yj33dAXjZCEpEulaCy/s400/9135_1265347993199_1214744218_30866439_7910614_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPa20MoSu3ah6a6Poy4gF7V3uyDYjdqDRQlgNq-M5_icu3A6ej5pdKDpKr7sWL-IJzAJTeRN2sgbkcj9hBE9roZBZHpZk87D6ElAlc3o15Vr9mF6ZPlqly60IPi4mM_L21MUbuo2SPPzr/s1600/9135_1265347233180_1214744218_30866437_113415_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546117833197304194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPa20MoSu3ah6a6Poy4gF7V3uyDYjdqDRQlgNq-M5_icu3A6ej5pdKDpKr7sWL-IJzAJTeRN2sgbkcj9hBE9roZBZHpZk87D6ElAlc3o15Vr9mF6ZPlqly60IPi4mM_L21MUbuo2SPPzr/s400/9135_1265347233180_1214744218_30866437_113415_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">2. Chocolate Hills</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOLf2-1tSFMTxAeDJC-aW1K-9PunvjzmBJ3-vyI5g6dgn_oIfrHRainelPJBUzACDntL9MouAFnxcmxtScarBnD0pxRkIcKtxoYDfa8XyuLxwMBokePv-bDsqI6rzlnT03qzIjJRO40O3E/s1600/9135_1265353073326_1214744218_30866482_4766673_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546122500842295778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOLf2-1tSFMTxAeDJC-aW1K-9PunvjzmBJ3-vyI5g6dgn_oIfrHRainelPJBUzACDntL9MouAFnxcmxtScarBnD0pxRkIcKtxoYDfa8XyuLxwMBokePv-bDsqI6rzlnT03qzIjJRO40O3E/s400/9135_1265353073326_1214744218_30866482_4766673_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate Hills</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Even at a young age, I've already heard about the beauty of Bohol because of its Chocolate Hills. The <span style="font-style: italic;">Sibika at Kultura</span> classes back in elementary days taught about the beautiful places in the country that Filipinos should be proud of and one of said places, of course, is the Chocolate Hills. The grass-covered limestone surface of the mounds turns brown during summer, hence the chocolate-y name.There are more than a thousand of these almost uniformly sized limestone hills scattered across the towns of Carmen, Sagbayan, Batuan, Bilar, Sierra Bullones and Valencia. Therefore, there are several ways of getting there, but we chose the one in Carmen as it is nearer and within our charted travel map.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPMZJc5wHj2zC8ETiYw6c-Y2QLayz6Uacm75Lg2gqjD1B_6ZQ4HnDHdVf_gu3wM-K7pCrN6xbEM1dLTVejlLRBkRlDUi71PREwYWK5ZCaPri5CroAOCWFuYYYvw6SrHfWwI212PyKos1y/s1600/9427_131305466862_518786862_3033352_4507530_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="267" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546122519782513218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPMZJc5wHj2zC8ETiYw6c-Y2QLayz6Uacm75Lg2gqjD1B_6ZQ4HnDHdVf_gu3wM-K7pCrN6xbEM1dLTVejlLRBkRlDUi71PREwYWK5ZCaPri5CroAOCWFuYYYvw6SrHfWwI212PyKos1y/s400/9427_131305466862_518786862_3033352_4507530_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The catch is that tourists have to climb a flight of stairs consisting of hundreds of steps. The reward of an amazing view, of course, makes it all worth it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwAouQ468kKEDYoM6z9oJps0FRESK_WagAojKFOo3-nNHlR8gYUWCSgAUEMeRhLsVP4QM68hOGJtZd7WRxzWaLlYGr0ie08untFHLF-9Syby3ulCkwaqFsH9Sq-wEQRcP3TBu6rDwq4N3/s1600/9135_1265357873446_1214744218_30866499_390165_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546122503537381602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwAouQ468kKEDYoM6z9oJps0FRESK_WagAojKFOo3-nNHlR8gYUWCSgAUEMeRhLsVP4QM68hOGJtZd7WRxzWaLlYGr0ie08untFHLF-9Syby3ulCkwaqFsH9Sq-wEQRcP3TBu6rDwq4N3/s400/9135_1265357873446_1214744218_30866499_390165_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfZ8NSQxiHtgiQQs3G11jPmzWQYMWN_wJdD_HcAni3A7zb3rkqKESXGBHDDjfLmrD5C0Znss-Ibt3reTXcO6Ly5iIqDhfN6U2YKX2vj0x3Lz3ZgL6HoPMEdySDX8PvePdS34jgmnaIPqkx/s1600/9427_131305446862_518786862_3033349_7911123_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="267" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546122517672954386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfZ8NSQxiHtgiQQs3G11jPmzWQYMWN_wJdD_HcAni3A7zb3rkqKESXGBHDDjfLmrD5C0Znss-Ibt3reTXcO6Ly5iIqDhfN6U2YKX2vj0x3Lz3ZgL6HoPMEdySDX8PvePdS34jgmnaIPqkx/s400/9427_131305446862_518786862_3033349_7911123_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK07Hpz_z3MI83Wscf9r1iIGdmj3ngI2DwIBFCFRekPVqZPscLZMnkpUmXiUUq5TqLtpoVMtK9jyUqxiNzAbrmYJrPG9u3F3VRtSIa2wsQlpFtPBSRfCsNmJPi_QYcsw61QdGHtSukt8ih/s1600/9427_131305456862_518786862_3033350_3629426_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="267" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546122511067424770" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK07Hpz_z3MI83Wscf9r1iIGdmj3ngI2DwIBFCFRekPVqZPscLZMnkpUmXiUUq5TqLtpoVMtK9jyUqxiNzAbrmYJrPG9u3F3VRtSIa2wsQlpFtPBSRfCsNmJPi_QYcsw61QdGHtSukt8ih/s400/9427_131305456862_518786862_3033350_3629426_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">3. Man-Made Forest</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPIaUAWwECDfQLxEb6INlv9yNq6FC-pk03s8ec5bIygATruiPptXNbHen4tPzuumeeUzGqM-FDhtl9vmBfyV48Oc3h-HRSP94WYd4xCxlprZNvsfaCu9v13HCMA3QM-s1fbOwYeDKH_SR/s1600/9427_131308296862_518786862_3033387_3165450_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="267" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559864654597259586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPIaUAWwECDfQLxEb6INlv9yNq6FC-pk03s8ec5bIygATruiPptXNbHen4tPzuumeeUzGqM-FDhtl9vmBfyV48Oc3h-HRSP94WYd4xCxlprZNvsfaCu9v13HCMA3QM-s1fbOwYeDKH_SR/s400/9427_131308296862_518786862_3033387_3165450_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Man-Made Forest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The next item in our itinerary is Bohol's man-made forest, a two-kilometer stretch of monoculture mahogany plantation that spans the towns of Loboc and Bilar. The forest offers a scenic view and a cool shade while driving past the gigantic rows of mahogany trees. As is the practice of tourists when passing by, we stopped first and had our pictures taken with the forest and the large trees as our backdrop, although we had to wait first and let the other cars pass by until the road is clear.This <span style="font-style: italic;">patintero</span> with speeding cars was also worth it. It was fun and our trip would be incomplete without stopping by.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfaJEdjTYzQ1oD7VJqVIo-IIJMnBzmtEVdBLiXaYqqzSYC2iwaiEBvyCbFUaFZ7WzWrwSBIiFH2CYrWWk2W_Plr2AMxTOE5J0yLOHztH11xX8h9TNTC_4hZY5hxA7f7xt7P678DCAuVOj2/s1600/9135_1265415434885_1214744218_30866755_691401_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563924855800689378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfaJEdjTYzQ1oD7VJqVIo-IIJMnBzmtEVdBLiXaYqqzSYC2iwaiEBvyCbFUaFZ7WzWrwSBIiFH2CYrWWk2W_Plr2AMxTOE5J0yLOHztH11xX8h9TNTC_4hZY5hxA7f7xt7P678DCAuVOj2/s400/9135_1265415434885_1214744218_30866755_691401_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvELdm959KwKN9orOwMqRTfIx3U0Q5zjn2V4r9bC6ObrlIxhqvB4vZ1KZn9nkoSQay9vAAHp_dpV76ZaTbgk-gaCQQQNBJzs5KcpzkyOhiJgjvkIdskgpXUFbYkJ5KKpErnReI8SKTtM2/s1600/9135_1265417394934_1214744218_30866762_4562862_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550329679924818066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvELdm959KwKN9orOwMqRTfIx3U0Q5zjn2V4r9bC6ObrlIxhqvB4vZ1KZn9nkoSQay9vAAHp_dpV76ZaTbgk-gaCQQQNBJzs5KcpzkyOhiJgjvkIdskgpXUFbYkJ5KKpErnReI8SKTtM2/s400/9135_1265417394934_1214744218_30866762_4562862_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXaozP1Z758R6Ynf1Ow05c2YMd0Mt0XsRBAnzaBomXvl_PGeC9QCTCz1ULtlbGk-bX93iZX09cpmWnudYT3blm4LPIRg040Hyac05QcDQnr0ggIeDmH7jKxv-yLY1K7qgki4aEQABLxtZ_/s1600/9427_131308286862_518786862_3033385_1611206_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550329673421389234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXaozP1Z758R6Ynf1Ow05c2YMd0Mt0XsRBAnzaBomXvl_PGeC9QCTCz1ULtlbGk-bX93iZX09cpmWnudYT3blm4LPIRg040Hyac05QcDQnr0ggIeDmH7jKxv-yLY1K7qgki4aEQABLxtZ_/s400/9427_131308286862_518786862_3033385_1611206_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="268" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRPrxF5EqS9IhHNmmqUqJ87a3TpP7sVMiomG3eXemq70SfSmD03arMTe1Ykga4jrywnH6qj_1yANStZt_pgfl8MH6uKPIfryFDQPQM2inoaWBr5aLt0MJsa46k8BeDeGO_a7V5x52HvqO/s1600/9135_1265417434935_1214744218_30866763_4079454_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550329671137590194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRPrxF5EqS9IhHNmmqUqJ87a3TpP7sVMiomG3eXemq70SfSmD03arMTe1Ykga4jrywnH6qj_1yANStZt_pgfl8MH6uKPIfryFDQPQM2inoaWBr5aLt0MJsa46k8BeDeGO_a7V5x52HvqO/s400/9135_1265417434935_1214744218_30866763_4079454_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">4. Loboc River Cruise</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
Our driver-cum-tour guide was in a great hurry to bring us early to Loboc River ahead of the other tourists for our cruise and buffet lunch. It was only after boarding and while enjoying our meal that we realized his concern: tourists do tend to flock and wait in long queues for a chance to board the boats, save for those who came early :) <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6suakAfgMeUxmgPZ2mwQU_6wzyRr0Xe9iWYPPxdw1N0mAUdYKN7TwQwN9rGr4Xsk4iFb8-4out7c-mpWFiwy3sPHX554PjQEPw5lxkXNVrIhz7CbYUMS5kKrpluD8bAjgWkbpQ5K8ca5c/s1600/9135_1265432235305_1214744218_30866837_6019058_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555436179075275234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6suakAfgMeUxmgPZ2mwQU_6wzyRr0Xe9iWYPPxdw1N0mAUdYKN7TwQwN9rGr4Xsk4iFb8-4out7c-mpWFiwy3sPHX554PjQEPw5lxkXNVrIhz7CbYUMS5kKrpluD8bAjgWkbpQ5K8ca5c/s400/9135_1265432235305_1214744218_30866837_6019058_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before Boarding the Boat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><br /></i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTqf8SCtu_NNY6uhvHKr0iTgvVVMa4YtEmTcxij4dCDF7Vs1bhgFD44Qfxte5-piB6TxVCyu2kh03t0iVli4pqSWQrkpdpti9dAsrboAQvNZQnKczA9dW_a8-42xmXSUhUrX8pJ-JuY4j3/s1600/9135_1265425955148_1214744218_30866805_3243197_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555436184900769090" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTqf8SCtu_NNY6uhvHKr0iTgvVVMa4YtEmTcxij4dCDF7Vs1bhgFD44Qfxte5-piB6TxVCyu2kh03t0iVli4pqSWQrkpdpti9dAsrboAQvNZQnKczA9dW_a8-42xmXSUhUrX8pJ-JuY4j3/s400/9135_1265425955148_1214744218_30866805_3243197_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loboc River</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've heard about the Loboc River cruise years ago and have been dying to try it. When the moment arrived, it was not really mind-blowingly extraordinary; but neither was it disappointing. The dishes served for the buffet meal were typical Filipino <span style="font-style: italic;">lutong-bahay</span> (home-cooked dishes) such as adobo, fried chicken, bbq, etc. Food was just OK. I loved the grilled tuna and the seaweed (lato) salad, though. There was also a dessert of fresh fruits.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu3YdkxeRnxIw2G6JVDXVRoDIMZyUScAK7GzF4txWmBba2lDZwyMyNxxkpTvKUmboYlL0zcB2aaSGzyh9FmvL9duQZvdRZtqv1_DlKV26dgpV-wjEG80lOsiD1oQhps6cFiAni040wQyo2/s1600/DSC00563.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559865224936509394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu3YdkxeRnxIw2G6JVDXVRoDIMZyUScAK7GzF4txWmBba2lDZwyMyNxxkpTvKUmboYlL0zcB2aaSGzyh9FmvL9duQZvdRZtqv1_DlKV26dgpV-wjEG80lOsiD1oQhps6cFiAni040wQyo2/s400/DSC00563.JPG" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cruise Buffet Lunch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji2woMqu5ze6wBeZ0w78FLs0jzaOm380cWl20BGyWI3s43PyQyiPjm_INeQtSuNSa32VtgP_1uqhfSeTSxWEPBKy89JlZqRbhb4hvOwHzbByms2gWaH4AtDstcqTFwzVNuRxAQqaVM6Syw/s1600/9135_1265421795044_1214744218_30866789_6448338_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555436189557520210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji2woMqu5ze6wBeZ0w78FLs0jzaOm380cWl20BGyWI3s43PyQyiPjm_INeQtSuNSa32VtgP_1uqhfSeTSxWEPBKy89JlZqRbhb4hvOwHzbByms2gWaH4AtDstcqTFwzVNuRxAQqaVM6Syw/s400/9135_1265421795044_1214744218_30866789_6448338_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a><br />
I think the meal was just worth the PHP350 fee. After all, it was a more unique experience than simply dining in a restaurant. What is more, we ate our lunch while being serenaded by the guitar-slinging baritone singer together with his band. The band sang local Bisaya songs but also impressed us with some love song classics. Hays, it was a great lunch with an even greater view of the super clean river (there's a fine of PHP1K for littering). Plus, there's the company of company of fun <span style="font-style: italic;">lakwatsa</span> friends.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-R6KLgWrIcyJbiQBvYNYK4C0QK4w8qFGV2ugPlK_eMZRZ0Lpnu4Ol3MCeA-xikDlaUkXXa5YuC3JVxpC9zyJvkjxTzYpTQyvirnBiOigXgoz0s3Zj0j40qiarBavHAkYQX_T8KzS1Y614/s1600/9135_1265421715042_1214744218_30866787_3873472_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555436192304955634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-R6KLgWrIcyJbiQBvYNYK4C0QK4w8qFGV2ugPlK_eMZRZ0Lpnu4Ol3MCeA-xikDlaUkXXa5YuC3JVxpC9zyJvkjxTzYpTQyvirnBiOigXgoz0s3Zj0j40qiarBavHAkYQX_T8KzS1Y614/s400/9135_1265421715042_1214744218_30866787_3873472_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dining while being sang to by this guy :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><br /></i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPvLNdTbEMUJvElj61Mzyd8y-_FqH_C3J_bBg_PhJOdVRUaNRLYhFS2wkgW0g2lWmtFHrLeXJtlnVnFwRF82cYTZc53-UGRMu2iQdqOVtCsILW907fPbtnXYWfgmSR0_1BzlgDEGQ9rPBY/s1600/9135_1265419794994_1214744218_30866779_1561927_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555436187808720146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPvLNdTbEMUJvElj61Mzyd8y-_FqH_C3J_bBg_PhJOdVRUaNRLYhFS2wkgW0g2lWmtFHrLeXJtlnVnFwRF82cYTZc53-UGRMu2iQdqOVtCsILW907fPbtnXYWfgmSR0_1BzlgDEGQ9rPBY/s400/9135_1265419794994_1214744218_30866779_1561927_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_QrelNLRcEJeA1z6TRvCGtMeo0rJ85lq3sZEoXu79ULYixzV0BPTKbhmCM55i0sew6csVd6tZmeXRXxjKJUDp5OHHkmphD01y8FC2WYBXO0JlOjUgGcQCVPS1r2UMRyL72itfbMiUTuc2/s1600/DSC00567.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559865217879224322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_QrelNLRcEJeA1z6TRvCGtMeo0rJ85lq3sZEoXu79ULYixzV0BPTKbhmCM55i0sew6csVd6tZmeXRXxjKJUDp5OHHkmphD01y8FC2WYBXO0JlOjUgGcQCVPS1r2UMRyL72itfbMiUTuc2/s400/DSC00567.JPG" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
At the end part of the river is the Busay Falls, a small falls with a height of around more than a meter. It was after reaching this point that the boat turns around to go back to the starting point. On the way back, we stopped for a while to watch some performing kids sing for the tourists. After the Loboc River cruise, we got back to our rented car and continued with the rest of the trip.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">5.Tarsier Sight-Seeing</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbCKBE7vCjhVGOt4ltVrUsnDYWZ3nkwckcOx5I1O4-UDYPOUVbyWFJOnsk7w93IM-6V8yI6c2Sl-ab1MNAEysiPydoy6x2PGE62ZzLsvbBbx6QPA4IO7MH50V2QnP-fKCdwyyTbrdHGgC/s1600/DSC00573.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559866748025534354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbCKBE7vCjhVGOt4ltVrUsnDYWZ3nkwckcOx5I1O4-UDYPOUVbyWFJOnsk7w93IM-6V8yI6c2Sl-ab1MNAEysiPydoy6x2PGE62ZzLsvbBbx6QPA4IO7MH50V2QnP-fKCdwyyTbrdHGgC/s320/DSC00573.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Tarsius syrichta</span> or Philippine Tarsier<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtVAXKwmZkvlmQ1UIgq2rPxDo5y6kzR3SHmDfJsrsske97yIAwZaXOmH3wu_8DXBqJXEoj31f1yQ-e1m4i0grr1jpHwE0XftzFfRMh987xHEpgvgaJQb8zEgFA0TxQQ8MdqP3bNMmQNcE/s1600/DSC00572.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559866749596831042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtVAXKwmZkvlmQ1UIgq2rPxDo5y6kzR3SHmDfJsrsske97yIAwZaXOmH3wu_8DXBqJXEoj31f1yQ-e1m4i0grr1jpHwE0XftzFfRMh987xHEpgvgaJQb8zEgFA0TxQQ8MdqP3bNMmQNcE/s320/DSC00572.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Any Bohol trip will not be complete without catching a glimpse of the famous Philippine tarsier, the world's smallest primate.The sight-seeing break was a welcome stop during our noontime drive, as the heat has started to become uncomfortable. More importantly, who would not love the cute, furry creature? The Philippine tarsier is so small that it can fit easily in one's hand, although touching it is not allowed because the cute animal is also very timid and shirks away from human contact. The Philippine tarsier has already been listed under "Endangered" category by the IUCN Conservation Monitoring Center. It can only be found in limited areas in the Visayas and Bohol is one of said places where the endangered primate is still found. No wonder that they are considered pride of Bohol and are well protected as such. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7giiDIFK3xcOQkyNNJS6NGCz3SmSVNnuK3sYDmOqB_a9EYJ1usSp09a7tHzjqXQSpX2-_BJBkqeqJMz_awu7H0lYsh2_XgIO2e6aeIf4x_wTMenEjSPiPcYvJIYv8xOMc6-yT98WbET_D/s1600/DSC00572.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559866754105144754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7giiDIFK3xcOQkyNNJS6NGCz3SmSVNnuK3sYDmOqB_a9EYJ1usSp09a7tHzjqXQSpX2-_BJBkqeqJMz_awu7H0lYsh2_XgIO2e6aeIf4x_wTMenEjSPiPcYvJIYv8xOMc6-yT98WbET_D/s320/DSC00572.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFrFbzk1f86YICR8pEbCTh5hC-lcOUKTHnhTTeK_Pn5NX9xi1ZxeupKl7vk9r20FkBFbv5nacvdZ6g7XHKx5ctH0XGI7BHvM5WCFgH4Ent8FjGlkzbh_G8t9sqSmYrotYZVcmt1VaiWRx/s1600/9427_131314296862_518786862_3033444_6429176_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559866756360091778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFrFbzk1f86YICR8pEbCTh5hC-lcOUKTHnhTTeK_Pn5NX9xi1ZxeupKl7vk9r20FkBFbv5nacvdZ6g7XHKx5ctH0XGI7BHvM5WCFgH4Ent8FjGlkzbh_G8t9sqSmYrotYZVcmt1VaiWRx/s320/9427_131314296862_518786862_3033444_6429176_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">6.Blood Compact Site in Loay</span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqlpKi7bkrd1f4MQ0S0qBqaopdL1fTelHqfyt-fbPS7EdWYZjWJPJ5aCtePxBaPFu6gtjfAKjcS85Djy4cgnK_6UHh-ZhL51bqwee4Fb5tAb2aC1N1MRaiCHGBlFLQrQTd6D8a5x-ALj5P/s1600/9135_1265443475586_1214744218_30866889_4491410_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563571840041331906" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqlpKi7bkrd1f4MQ0S0qBqaopdL1fTelHqfyt-fbPS7EdWYZjWJPJ5aCtePxBaPFu6gtjfAKjcS85Djy4cgnK_6UHh-ZhL51bqwee4Fb5tAb2aC1N1MRaiCHGBlFLQrQTd6D8a5x-ALj5P/s320/9135_1265443475586_1214744218_30866889_4491410_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXHh4gEX0W2uoHVZfbUu_vRC3koX_WXXfOy-A7Bi6A_O7kpwKEQcMwq8ZsELnVIRH9IUaj5QhN-KHihb5ftMXL0x7ZpPrhroJlb-RmK4k_T8_xi39dAkmLyreHBfLPMvnuicJxasUg2iG0/s1600/9135_1265443635590_1214744218_30866893_6996760_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563571845904999794" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXHh4gEX0W2uoHVZfbUu_vRC3koX_WXXfOy-A7Bi6A_O7kpwKEQcMwq8ZsELnVIRH9IUaj5QhN-KHihb5ftMXL0x7ZpPrhroJlb-RmK4k_T8_xi39dAkmLyreHBfLPMvnuicJxasUg2iG0/s320/9135_1265443635590_1214744218_30866893_6996760_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">@ the Blood Compact Site in Loay</span><br />
<br />
Our tour guide took us next to what he called "the real blood compact site" located in Loay. The Sandugo Shrine in Tagbilaran (discussed later) has long been considered the site where Rajah Sikatuna and Spanish conqueror Miguel Lopez de Legazpi performed their blood compact. Yet according to our guide, a recent study discovered that the historic event was actually conducted in Loay. Hence, a newer Sandugo shrine was set-up there. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCNYA4BMwZooAL8rQcHpH92JmakOEb5EB3CKLEjWQKmB34T5YeY31oSgfritk5h2E84LCZdr0yZRrVBDurmf0pRYZ5sjcV6fQfO2UYlHT3C54nguxH5O6WynP7xjWYyXVK9QGD6ykjiyq/s1600/9135_1265443795594_1214744218_30866897_338408_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563571848464073538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCNYA4BMwZooAL8rQcHpH92JmakOEb5EB3CKLEjWQKmB34T5YeY31oSgfritk5h2E84LCZdr0yZRrVBDurmf0pRYZ5sjcV6fQfO2UYlHT3C54nguxH5O6WynP7xjWYyXVK9QGD6ykjiyq/s320/9135_1265443795594_1214744218_30866897_338408_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbf0zukVar0VRG0O6FJmtKlWrim5RNxU8Ck4KsuJZ3RLs81ytOOmGaYiTV_GVJVY9vd6cRRO1Lvnp086y3i7BvPsg8b2xkbUPo5ft8k9tpr7zNKsy8kMc8er1d24iroKVYrVEl1ZyO_KSu/s1600/9427_131314311862_518786862_3033446_5901755_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563571865262941378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbf0zukVar0VRG0O6FJmtKlWrim5RNxU8Ck4KsuJZ3RLs81ytOOmGaYiTV_GVJVY9vd6cRRO1Lvnp086y3i7BvPsg8b2xkbUPo5ft8k9tpr7zNKsy8kMc8er1d24iroKVYrVEl1ZyO_KSu/s320/9427_131314311862_518786862_3033446_5901755_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 214px;" /></a><br />
<br />
We stopped for a while to pose for the pictures, but decided later to try on the costumes. It must be the heat or simply our crazy mood that made us act out a <span style="font-style: italic;">harana</span> (traditional serenade) scenario in the makeshift <span style="font-style: italic;">kubo</span> =) Anyways, the caretakers of the place were more than willing to take our snapshots and assist us in our costume-fitting and role-playing spree. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUNGjg0qG1r5ucF5_kMTjbUwZhsndyNBoWCzr1FT3QhLuSOtrbfft0ihpqx3tWw4_XEO14_LbOHlmnRgcfTJ-AzuwLEgcKVGXta20cJhIaYRrnGJdvOEUptiAPbTinj1AYyanWBAVj9Be6/s1600/9135_1265443835595_1214744218_30866898_407213_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563571871751255906" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUNGjg0qG1r5ucF5_kMTjbUwZhsndyNBoWCzr1FT3QhLuSOtrbfft0ihpqx3tWw4_XEO14_LbOHlmnRgcfTJ-AzuwLEgcKVGXta20cJhIaYRrnGJdvOEUptiAPbTinj1AYyanWBAVj9Be6/s320/9135_1265443835595_1214744218_30866898_407213_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Back to the car and onward to our next location.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">7. Prony the Python</span></span><br />
<br />
Our next stop was at Alburqueque, Bohol to view the gigantic pet python named Prony. Prony has turned into some sort of a community pet of the residents, in the sense that the whole town is proud of "their" Prony the Python. I forgot about the whole story on how Prony's owners acquired her, but apparently they reared, bathed and fed their unique (but rather dangerous) pet until it reached its current humongous size--not yet quite like the computer-animated snakes in the Anaconda movie, but huge enough to amaze (or scare) the guests. Prony was calm when we arrived; in fact she seemed to be always calm and immobile. Or perhaps she is normally in that languid mood especially after a meal. Guests have to line up outside the python-pen for a chance to enter the snake pit and have a picture with the special attraction.It is even better that we're allowed to touch Prony! :) *goosebumps* <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfx7I3SdbkpxEnSZ64dwbpg1bbfsowzk57VIP4Vf1HHXXS-8Uex5TTBotvwh-FjSrrs482Ar3MCipPpKH3tpeVyDEuYUTq7_4k6IpuLDBfxHl7cF0NxJkp46cvOEaJk_78U6oA2_YfrDUs/s1600/9427_131314336862_518786862_3033451_244875_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563575775651896882" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfx7I3SdbkpxEnSZ64dwbpg1bbfsowzk57VIP4Vf1HHXXS-8Uex5TTBotvwh-FjSrrs482Ar3MCipPpKH3tpeVyDEuYUTq7_4k6IpuLDBfxHl7cF0NxJkp46cvOEaJk_78U6oA2_YfrDUs/s320/9427_131314336862_518786862_3033451_244875_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">The Celebrity of the Day: Prony the Python</span><br />
<br />
The one taking the pictures is actually one of the owners of the place. Apart from Prony, there are also other rare animals and birds there, making the place like a mini-zoo.From the smallest primate to big pythons, Bohol really has a unique set of wildlife attractions! <br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">8. Baclayon Church</span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1gBBRDJBzRk9oD0k9t3PCvrFYLYZExZ2ecorCR_9Ysx9MzRo3tHr_upBDdKfroKpIAzjYplNv5qhZGFcJJj_-4bF8ZfZCSIkHTb-enn5VKIWOH-YflEE9IwpibpgiE30fl1wUf36mYYql/s1600/9427_131314341862_518786862_3033452_4273211_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563576594185678994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1gBBRDJBzRk9oD0k9t3PCvrFYLYZExZ2ecorCR_9Ysx9MzRo3tHr_upBDdKfroKpIAzjYplNv5qhZGFcJJj_-4bF8ZfZCSIkHTb-enn5VKIWOH-YflEE9IwpibpgiE30fl1wUf36mYYql/s320/9427_131314341862_518786862_3033452_4273211_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Aged Walls: Baclayon Church</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XTz_hC9dlKZYIWVSICj3cqBhzyWZ_EKbfuhTfp3R6VXi6ZOTDypR08iuVcwS0jlMacwXEk2ci6pd9DM55QORk7NqvsNoaew8VFdxxI1cRfLnuWHQ-F9nmf92oDTwsuEhPpDpKGjif0yG/s1600/9427_131320806862_518786862_3033556_7454706_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563576589074323762" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XTz_hC9dlKZYIWVSICj3cqBhzyWZ_EKbfuhTfp3R6VXi6ZOTDypR08iuVcwS0jlMacwXEk2ci6pd9DM55QORk7NqvsNoaew8VFdxxI1cRfLnuWHQ-F9nmf92oDTwsuEhPpDpKGjif0yG/s320/9427_131320806862_518786862_3033556_7454706_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Given the number of old churches in Bohol, I reckoned that the Boholanos are really religious and pious. And they love their churches too. Our guide was so proud to tell us that the Baclayon Church is actually one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. Its stone walls bear the mark of its long years of existence. Unfortunately though, they have this policy forbidding the taking of pictures inside the museum adjacent to the church. Inside said museum is where antique images of saints, vestments of priests, photographs and other church objects are on display. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JVSvKrfc9t74eHR6YrB44a_bcC9Lz_LEunJ2QieG_n-1ho1Zc0mkqqSqXfpkNWak0jRUc2yTuMWvpX2XdYwwHifKc33_7Q1NtVDKwKwfCM4iOOqP9u8aL6eQ6KgAgKXCAWhAe80CkN0Y/s1600/9427_131320791862_518786862_3033553_4413617_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563576572549052546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JVSvKrfc9t74eHR6YrB44a_bcC9Lz_LEunJ2QieG_n-1ho1Zc0mkqqSqXfpkNWak0jRUc2yTuMWvpX2XdYwwHifKc33_7Q1NtVDKwKwfCM4iOOqP9u8aL6eQ6KgAgKXCAWhAe80CkN0Y/s320/9427_131320791862_518786862_3033553_4413617_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 214px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Getting Holy @ Baclayon Church</span><br />
<br />
Before entering the church, I was stopped by one of the employees and was asked to don an improvised shawl since I was wearing a spaghetti-strapped dress. Apparently, they have a strict dress-code policy when it comes to persons entering the Church, a fact which I actually did not mind. Sleeveless shirts and shorts are not allowed. Not that they will prevent you from entering, but they'll give you a large piece of cloth for covering. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW6DS0Xh36JMg3IE_ILi95U4DmBKt2TRiwnEcM6Clx73gHbVsqcPXhQ2HvgUUYrR5j-tk0cqs7XkV2U8nOuY3LRLc5Dbov1gKj_3IRnrk5HgCSygOtUoszwIsTBCHUyYx5qsgUtdy-6GPF/s1600/9427_131320746862_518786862_3033548_7624586_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563576566882680594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW6DS0Xh36JMg3IE_ILi95U4DmBKt2TRiwnEcM6Clx73gHbVsqcPXhQ2HvgUUYrR5j-tk0cqs7XkV2U8nOuY3LRLc5Dbov1gKj_3IRnrk5HgCSygOtUoszwIsTBCHUyYx5qsgUtdy-6GPF/s320/9427_131320746862_518786862_3033548_7624586_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 214px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Good thing, taking pictures inside the church is already allowed. The interiors of Baclayon Church, for me, is eerily old. It's as if I entered another era or century reminiscent of the Spanish friars and the Noli Me Tangere times. The woodwork inside the church is fantastic, evidencing the great talent of the Boholano people in this craft.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">9. Sandugo Shrine</span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCucCn9dschcO-E8OGYbx2z94BqSyrgKj6sDXS5tAr6WL3OkmBXlRXrKxypOHKT_dkfBbJ1yeFh5_45oVDB2fkyV_AegQVOJDq3lH_o1j4sF9gvZn8lwdiabwd79DtJPF4JCnVxJPLFat/s1600/9427_131320846862_518786862_3033563_855919_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563774153450937618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCucCn9dschcO-E8OGYbx2z94BqSyrgKj6sDXS5tAr6WL3OkmBXlRXrKxypOHKT_dkfBbJ1yeFh5_45oVDB2fkyV_AegQVOJDq3lH_o1j4sF9gvZn8lwdiabwd79DtJPF4JCnVxJPLFat/s320/9427_131320846862_518786862_3033563_855919_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">@the Sandugo Site</span><br />
<br />
Our next stop was the Sandugo Shrine, the place where Rajah Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi was traditionally believed to have held their blood compact. This event is historically significant because it signifies the coming together of the two cultures and is regarded as the first treaty for peace and friendship between the island-dwellers and the Spaniards. The statues created in honor of this event were made by no other than National Artist Napoleopn Abueva, who is himself a Boholano. The appearance of the statues aims to recreate the supposed image of the toast between the Boholano royalties and the Spanish conquerors. An added beauty point is that behind the site is a wonderful view of the ocean. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSGeY5xj1wEdyxuMKw9mG_1BXGC6WfwQQ0pQ59H8X7FiSAyb-Rpt9LvbVUrVc9flgaD82cI2zBzRUlm0FeGCb1UFN_s2bIkzvv8_rFPlg3BQ2jD92rgkmQF6Y5q0JFV9s49EbcWA6Q0Nh/s1600/9427_131320851862_518786862_3033564_5018397_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563774723486177058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSGeY5xj1wEdyxuMKw9mG_1BXGC6WfwQQ0pQ59H8X7FiSAyb-Rpt9LvbVUrVc9flgaD82cI2zBzRUlm0FeGCb1UFN_s2bIkzvv8_rFPlg3BQ2jD92rgkmQF6Y5q0JFV9s49EbcWA6Q0Nh/s320/9427_131320851862_518786862_3033564_5018397_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcTV-HR4F6b-RjpLVsu1pouUs6gbOeGMKpLcH9qyWkABG7G5F5xHSDyh_x5lUAKdl9q-PdHB1iWdbms2_OYaUsnF_gVLw6p193FeV3F30BtjdsPQghdt3EH1DUvkcoDb5JFlXovnY5rfUq/s1600/9427_131320826862_518786862_3033560_1807758_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563774720059582706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcTV-HR4F6b-RjpLVsu1pouUs6gbOeGMKpLcH9qyWkABG7G5F5xHSDyh_x5lUAKdl9q-PdHB1iWdbms2_OYaUsnF_gVLw6p193FeV3F30BtjdsPQghdt3EH1DUvkcoDb5JFlXovnY5rfUq/s320/9427_131320826862_518786862_3033560_1807758_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4uTP0Cmw8oSpv7mKCWM1TrTIF_AESL18WgLvJum2j72-DULzcuvxJu4Jm9E3j_P4lb8evMvBi_0U4KghFFgS-vp-D19A1Bhb_N7Wh0LMcXBJ-skJflUWtaiCGBcsSRO_X18jeZW-ejoJY/s1600/9427_131320841862_518786862_3033562_2985325_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563774717421746498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4uTP0Cmw8oSpv7mKCWM1TrTIF_AESL18WgLvJum2j72-DULzcuvxJu4Jm9E3j_P4lb8evMvBi_0U4KghFFgS-vp-D19A1Bhb_N7Wh0LMcXBJ-skJflUWtaiCGBcsSRO_X18jeZW-ejoJY/s320/9427_131320841862_518786862_3033562_2985325_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">10. Bohol Bee Farm</span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJKTCg242puu8qwTmcpLVOK79y7bpLnLVcYEgxE7TXLpVL2NDNMA9oYXmhBkJIJOkDmWWJFP8PcPiHnYzhV-xGPTcy5ydXAoeaJ9fMjYJjksmjfI_i8ZsQlSDF5lq165_FVACXdxJlXgI/s1600/9135_1268004899620_1214744218_30876768_4893612_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563780103620365186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJKTCg242puu8qwTmcpLVOK79y7bpLnLVcYEgxE7TXLpVL2NDNMA9oYXmhBkJIJOkDmWWJFP8PcPiHnYzhV-xGPTcy5ydXAoeaJ9fMjYJjksmjfI_i8ZsQlSDF5lq165_FVACXdxJlXgI/s320/9135_1268004899620_1214744218_30876768_4893612_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9Am-xK1aanGi8A0rTLE4nzWvsNytcru4cuLbaI2Golfm2C42vg0F6zGRY2lFUg65z92ghOaKZEZnIS66vBV5pFnLE400LmSmdg0zIRXCt2lbBeSlIha3boT_SP-rwrGEj9nzD-WoOFLz/s1600/9135_1268004099600_1214744218_30876748_2673095_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563780097076251250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9Am-xK1aanGi8A0rTLE4nzWvsNytcru4cuLbaI2Golfm2C42vg0F6zGRY2lFUg65z92ghOaKZEZnIS66vBV5pFnLE400LmSmdg0zIRXCt2lbBeSlIha3boT_SP-rwrGEj9nzD-WoOFLz/s320/9135_1268004099600_1214744218_30876748_2673095_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
A part of the tour which I was really excited about was the Bohol Bee Farm in Dauis, Bohol. I am not a big fan of beefarming/beekeeping, only that it's rare to hear about a bee farm in the Philippines and this one in Bohol is the most oft-cited. Unfortunately, there was not much bee-farming at the Bohol Bee Farm when we arrived and we only got to see one box of bees in the entire "farm". On second thoughts, maybe we did not just fully explore the place because we chose to relax before the sea-side hut and eat ice cream :) <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjOuBYHEMkMlq1YZT8E0ua3PiLOhHq5MuGiUUgjPQDovDwS0LVHJxZQDx1CMGl4OAbIi8xJ10V2pz2618ipLXd8aRUVOwsuJ4ipv9Ov5QXk0sE69xa5wPCfcqoZv5xuIOAI78gIBhpzSJ/s1600/9135_1268003659589_1214744218_30876737_1056963_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563775853827374834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjOuBYHEMkMlq1YZT8E0ua3PiLOhHq5MuGiUUgjPQDovDwS0LVHJxZQDx1CMGl4OAbIi8xJ10V2pz2618ipLXd8aRUVOwsuJ4ipv9Ov5QXk0sE69xa5wPCfcqoZv5xuIOAI78gIBhpzSJ/s320/9135_1268003659589_1214744218_30876737_1056963_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyxVUdau3l1BA0Ow4EYiDN2NOYSrvRxD5XfN-2_Di1wxWOP776PjM-YOAKBQNjX7xffR9wenhpo-5hoPUTs3jvtkMe5nFALtVNfG3tj6J2dPmRtvQOvVn_KSuB8-j4DYCGL_uSStWgfhv-/s1600/9135_1268003819593_1214744218_30876741_2295938_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563775864126841378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyxVUdau3l1BA0Ow4EYiDN2NOYSrvRxD5XfN-2_Di1wxWOP776PjM-YOAKBQNjX7xffR9wenhpo-5hoPUTs3jvtkMe5nFALtVNfG3tj6J2dPmRtvQOvVn_KSuB8-j4DYCGL_uSStWgfhv-/s320/9135_1268003819593_1214744218_30876741_2295938_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
For me, the main attraction of the place is its fantastic view of the sea and its rustic, colorful huts. We took the time to enjoy the view of the ocean from the terrace of the big hut perched on the edge of the sea. The ocean-side <span style="font-style: italic;">bahay-kubo</span> evokes that relaxing ambiance of the simple, provincial life. As I sit back and relax, I put my feet up, listened to waves and felt the warm sea breeze and sunshine on my skin.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROqdVJYxjI_KzKeFg9cMtA6YZL3PKoTo6fxZ_6r-S9xfXDp2iA2uke8ZX5Dw396G_t91GSX3isA2H0rRJT19LHrJkHBdH4bxQPsKEJEPczOfLK_EEqojCA88zVDgJ6RQkjUPjlZWWWEtC/s1600/9427_131320861862_518786862_3033566_3355549_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563780109330765106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROqdVJYxjI_KzKeFg9cMtA6YZL3PKoTo6fxZ_6r-S9xfXDp2iA2uke8ZX5Dw396G_t91GSX3isA2H0rRJT19LHrJkHBdH4bxQPsKEJEPczOfLK_EEqojCA88zVDgJ6RQkjUPjlZWWWEtC/s320/9427_131320861862_518786862_3033566_3355549_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikTwbA_ztgOx4X3yII52VCXMee9HCsNyqCcnFDbQ15zld2tw0NmgMaTriKS2HndvpfA_LPTOmv0RFoJLk6sEGz1Dm6Yjf1BfdPYCL1LpCLZNDKZWCqtXbpM-FGO0XybVH3gS_EZkGmV9Fz/s1600/9427_131320886862_518786862_3033570_4976204_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563780113587408434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikTwbA_ztgOx4X3yII52VCXMee9HCsNyqCcnFDbQ15zld2tw0NmgMaTriKS2HndvpfA_LPTOmv0RFoJLk6sEGz1Dm6Yjf1BfdPYCL1LpCLZNDKZWCqtXbpM-FGO0XybVH3gS_EZkGmV9Fz/s320/9427_131320886862_518786862_3033570_4976204_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tKBrHA5GBiDlMaEF2KYtdBwr3Jjate3mMjz_AE8yA6H74GEu16YG5mXcE5N0fjDhf-Ef_bjh0JmgwudY9U1tpPJ0pS-0jecp_G4UMAATRaJFfwoCKxMGFyt_mCImaxO5xwaMjxmJEf-f/s1600/9427_131320891862_518786862_3033571_1550166_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563780105990645650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tKBrHA5GBiDlMaEF2KYtdBwr3Jjate3mMjz_AE8yA6H74GEu16YG5mXcE5N0fjDhf-Ef_bjh0JmgwudY9U1tpPJ0pS-0jecp_G4UMAATRaJFfwoCKxMGFyt_mCImaxO5xwaMjxmJEf-f/s320/9427_131320891862_518786862_3033571_1550166_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVB6cRhPw5wDZhfotTixrsfXXlhrNbyiADZ1epRzBEswR2sCrVpW0cRJHXu0ea-f21mAzA7b7NucocBnRnNhCGagxZZ3oFcl4rmp5og89lOuyXmXl3nMqFeooblamTOCOWtNQFAPU1-Sz2/s1600/9135_1268003579587_1214744218_30876735_5692309_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563775860039236082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVB6cRhPw5wDZhfotTixrsfXXlhrNbyiADZ1epRzBEswR2sCrVpW0cRJHXu0ea-f21mAzA7b7NucocBnRnNhCGagxZZ3oFcl4rmp5og89lOuyXmXl3nMqFeooblamTOCOWtNQFAPU1-Sz2/s320/9135_1268003579587_1214744218_30876735_5692309_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifT646O63QQ5Bh3Ik5ilxPfparY55aqbODTghs579Y7HhLOOf8s9e7Hz-4yfLPXALECA4oJE56KcRkvpBPY-mb1RNvUgSgiwwlXPiygOVVfc0PcX8HfC5IZgns4gc_yvodseeisj36hjOy/s1600/9135_1268003899595_1214744218_30876743_7516317_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563775872127141538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifT646O63QQ5Bh3Ik5ilxPfparY55aqbODTghs579Y7HhLOOf8s9e7Hz-4yfLPXALECA4oJE56KcRkvpBPY-mb1RNvUgSgiwwlXPiygOVVfc0PcX8HfC5IZgns4gc_yvodseeisj36hjOy/s320/9135_1268003899595_1214744218_30876743_7516317_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
We also ate home-made ice cream, though we chose to eat it from an ice cream cup instead of the cone made from a local plant known as <span style="font-style: italic;">cabcab</span>. The resort boasts of its ice cream for the latter's unique flavors, including malunngay, durian, pandan, and avocado flavors. At P40 per cone, it wasn't bad, although I've heard some guests comment that the taste is <span style="font-style: italic;">kakaiba</span> (weird or different). Indeed taste depends on the taster, all I can say is that it's not ordinary. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">11.Dumaluan Beach Resort</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMw71-YppQ6dUkzGkRXD3fWWIB6e0M89M-wFh2YGPV5zD2F1BpkQWyY_Iq3H264WwTXyPezgJSiSJabLCT9e4_VVryhat8tUCtTi8-niduUsTZ4ZdSYyqaKQc0V5nUcLqcJ3xnEnLmjxjV/s1600/9135_1268005059624_1214744218_30876772_3577159_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563781307932014546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMw71-YppQ6dUkzGkRXD3fWWIB6e0M89M-wFh2YGPV5zD2F1BpkQWyY_Iq3H264WwTXyPezgJSiSJabLCT9e4_VVryhat8tUCtTi8-niduUsTZ4ZdSYyqaKQc0V5nUcLqcJ3xnEnLmjxjV/s320/9135_1268005059624_1214744218_30876772_3577159_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">The skies and seas of Panglao Bohol</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRj_z6ed3MD9e5NoWpftnhOIXYzzzXNFLtU4OFl-19Gzb7tLWe85xDBZl0qtYfEhkq49bCz7xv0sJfXr3YX89uiyhoDIPJf8kC7x1z2WVcTCX1WKdiOgpFGVYIBID4hvRrj_bnclzqjHIk/s1600/9135_1268004979622_1214744218_30876770_2773182_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563781308088855810" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRj_z6ed3MD9e5NoWpftnhOIXYzzzXNFLtU4OFl-19Gzb7tLWe85xDBZl0qtYfEhkq49bCz7xv0sJfXr3YX89uiyhoDIPJf8kC7x1z2WVcTCX1WKdiOgpFGVYIBID4hvRrj_bnclzqjHIk/s320/9135_1268004979622_1214744218_30876770_2773182_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Life's a Beach! The author at Dumaluan, Panglao</span><br />
<br />
Finally, our driver took us to our last destination for that day and the place where we would spend the night: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dumaluan Beach Resort.</span> I first researched about Dumaluan in the Internet weeks before our trip and also made inquiries. I've read that many <span style="font-style: italic;">tipid</span> budget travelers have availed of the native bahay kubos and tree houses of the Resort. Our tree house was dirt cheap at just P1200.000. I so heart our treehouse. It's so simple but <span style="font-style: italic;">mapresko</span> and it has a nice view of the beach. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmr8G2lbGyg32kWZ8wk4kkU6h7VewNKg6vn2MmbLcFvHEbVM-5J8N9-6dfIQAisxKUeu9BDO8jfCLBYtQl5SFxd1fzAZr62yUqGRhXr-4hXct8D0TsXvPTA5-z-roovhXhyvqYbTsmZ4u/s1600/9135_1268008499710_1214744218_30876854_3259043_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563782377861269890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmr8G2lbGyg32kWZ8wk4kkU6h7VewNKg6vn2MmbLcFvHEbVM-5J8N9-6dfIQAisxKUeu9BDO8jfCLBYtQl5SFxd1fzAZr62yUqGRhXr-4hXct8D0TsXvPTA5-z-roovhXhyvqYbTsmZ4u/s320/9135_1268008499710_1214744218_30876854_3259043_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Tree House near the beach @ Dumaluan Beach Resort</span><br />
<br />
The place was a bit crowded, so we were lucky to have the tree house. The inside of the kubo was furnished with two beds with foams and linens and an electric fan. We requested for two more additional mattresses with no additional charge. The kubo's large enough to fit around five or six persons.Sans the comfort of five-star amenities, we contented ourselves with the beauty of the nature around us. Dumaluaon shares the same shoreline--and sea, of course-- with the other known classy and expensive accommodations in Panglao, Bohol, particularly the Bohol Beach Club, which is only adjacent Dumaluan with only a fence separating the two resorts. In our treehouse, we have a nice vantage view of the posh neighboring five-star resort hehe (nangangarap na lamang!) :)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2irRqj4pIN33ju2tvcMsIs_cYm4LsSMhw_vnZ6aMZBsXz-ZpZQobiwmAaUBbFskzt75219vwH-UWOGeOcOnS7L9vTAZzZY_KrE5srs1oBlEUa0HTPjTAIi7SFKY7VGdkn__hxSszq3bh/s1600/9135_1268008459709_1214744218_30876853_1398150_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563782380207006914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2irRqj4pIN33ju2tvcMsIs_cYm4LsSMhw_vnZ6aMZBsXz-ZpZQobiwmAaUBbFskzt75219vwH-UWOGeOcOnS7L9vTAZzZY_KrE5srs1oBlEUa0HTPjTAIi7SFKY7VGdkn__hxSszq3bh/s320/9135_1268008459709_1214744218_30876853_1398150_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Before sunset, Squall and I decided to survey the surroundings and to take a dip while Lheila and Pyke went back to the city to buy our dinner. They have to rent a "single"/motorcycle for Php30/person/trip since public transport was quite difficult especially during nighttime. After dinner of--guess what?--chicken Mcdo (to reiterate, we were quite short of funds hehe so we can't afford to splurge on resort menu), we had the customary drinking spree and then went to sleep for our island hopping the next day, a topic which I would discuss in my next post. :)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHXW8VEANLHWknvmmg7QA7kLDvj0gyqpZjjxAEGjnyJaStJg9ZFBoO6C6e-lLkxFTzw8Dwd-wn1H19wMi-L49Xcr__D51kRZxOd7XZ_GIQTGV-6ZKdvFpj1QeJig98dBZbX_DHhKJ5Bag/s1600/9427_131332986862_518786862_3033735_1016742_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563781315614208706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHXW8VEANLHWknvmmg7QA7kLDvj0gyqpZjjxAEGjnyJaStJg9ZFBoO6C6e-lLkxFTzw8Dwd-wn1H19wMi-L49Xcr__D51kRZxOd7XZ_GIQTGV-6ZKdvFpj1QeJig98dBZbX_DHhKJ5Bag/s320/9427_131332986862_518786862_3033735_1016742_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 220px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKPBol2PExwyxBMdsxv1I4H0FqSCeSBiTNwxqTUYzEg_djl0v0NpU1i4DQxFaN-gQ7yrDifgmF4xK8Y9xiQ4qokCDopW2owfKdbgZgLos-Wtm8F-jW_6csff8BY3YyLhofPPCKUAkP4w05/s1600/DSC00577.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563930205738076594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKPBol2PExwyxBMdsxv1I4H0FqSCeSBiTNwxqTUYzEg_djl0v0NpU1i4DQxFaN-gQ7yrDifgmF4xK8Y9xiQ4qokCDopW2owfKdbgZgLos-Wtm8F-jW_6csff8BY3YyLhofPPCKUAkP4w05/s320/DSC00577.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Tired travelers...</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_RAem1md9Jtl0N5MDSDGljYU_ROH2qapLi1L-ztmSU_2nvQ_nXjjrN533AvgNXBNyzWivNJQiOipqbBfnmLurdnuabtQpShh0NxG7HJ706NwvT-kN6v3W8tbgC6BHjoSqwLoOoMnix4H/s1600/9427_131333276862_518786862_3033783_1218852_n.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563781313757021042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_RAem1md9Jtl0N5MDSDGljYU_ROH2qapLi1L-ztmSU_2nvQ_nXjjrN533AvgNXBNyzWivNJQiOipqbBfnmLurdnuabtQpShh0NxG7HJ706NwvT-kN6v3W8tbgC6BHjoSqwLoOoMnix4H/s320/9427_131333276862_518786862_3033783_1218852_n.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 214px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Before we left our tree house...</span><br />
<br />
Overall, my Bohol trip was really <span style="font-style: italic;">sulit</span> and so full of new adventures. We were able to go to the places which we intended to visit in the first place--and so much more! I also enjoyed the company of Boholanos, the people we met along the way, who were so proud of their home province and are ever willing to assist and give directions to tourists. It was a comfortable trip (except for the part where I have to wake up early hehe) and unbelievably inexpensive.Below is a summary of our budget.<br />
<br />
Major Expenses:<br />
<br />
P2000 (divided by four) -- car rental for the day trip, which covered the following stopovers:1) Hanging Bridge of Bilar, 2) Chocolate Hills at Carmen, 3) Man-Made Forest, 4) Loboc River Cruise, 5) Tarsier Sight-seeing, 6) The Real Blood Compact Site at Loay, 7) Prony the Python at Alburqueque, 8) Baclayon Church, 9) the Sandugo Shrine, 10) Bohol Bee Farm, 11) pasalubong shopping, and finally, 12) Dumaluan Beach Resort. <br />
<br />
P 1200 (divided by four) -- tree house at Dumaluan Beach Resort<br />
<br />
P 1500 (divided by four) -- boat rental for half-day dolphin-watching, snorkeling and island hopping (to be tackled in the next post)<br />
<br />
P1000 -- Cebu-Tagbilaran-Cebu ferry fare<br />
<br />
P350 -- Loboc River cruise + lunch buffet<br />
<br />
other minor expenses for entrance fees, which are normally very cheap.<br />
breakfast, snacks and dinner, depending on one's taste and budget :)<br />
pasalubong expenses! don't forget to buy peanut kisses. Addictively yummy, if not for the calories hehe...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Basta</span> overall, I only spent more than <span style="font-weight: bold;">PHP 6K</span> for my Cebu-Bohol trip. It was so <span style="font-style: italic;">tipid</span> but I did not feel deprived. The technique is to book early, research before going there and establish contacts so you can bargain well.Research as much as possible to learn of the different options and to maximize the limited time. I'm also so grateful to friends who made referrals. Before I forget, here is the no. of Kuya Ranil, the car-rental <span style="font-style: italic;">kuya</span> who also helped us with our tour: 09193443365. I just hope he didn't change his number.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">FIN</span>.Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-47936502055617716952010-11-22T13:42:00.001+08:002010-11-27T00:55:02.245+08:00CEBU: My Brief Flirtation with a Queen City<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOGVjfmn06YIv9tkMHlNalG85MF7zfR2QvPZChMGmZtDyVVrZPUaIhm4l5ZBV4DaYfG76lsD7svVqJoP_AG2dovkAWM8_4zKKv7fdf6T1GJx2QVAkW3EvT5G8NPlUUSEd2FvzXVT0KhK7/s1600/DSC00524.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOGVjfmn06YIv9tkMHlNalG85MF7zfR2QvPZChMGmZtDyVVrZPUaIhm4l5ZBV4DaYfG76lsD7svVqJoP_AG2dovkAWM8_4zKKv7fdf6T1GJx2QVAkW3EvT5G8NPlUUSEd2FvzXVT0KhK7/s320/DSC00524.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543152367366012658" /></a><br /><br />However brief my stint at Cebu was, I was able to see why people call this uber city the Queen City of the South and why the Cebuanos are proud of their origin. Cebu is where one can find the old and the new, the heritages of our past as well as the markers of a rapidly growing locale. It is also the gateway to other tourist destinations in the Visayas . Within the short hours of our stay there, we've been to some of the well-known historic sites in the metro city and met several different individuals, from taxi drivers to souvenir vendors and ladies selling candles and performing the prayer dance--all of them have been very cordial and accommodating to us. These short encounters left me yearning for more.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4MzE1rbhVz6jsv93VPhu1OaGbyKskcC_KWax_Jc7KMPJkK2Pz3i8rQBYS6NuPwtxz1qUibmYc149Noqc9JlRv5gm8_NY5Bx6Qxo01ZllsUCS9oj8UsErJWYd73I17ORXAn95uCjSbGJ_b/s1600/9135_1258985194133_1214744218_30845538_1246342_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4MzE1rbhVz6jsv93VPhu1OaGbyKskcC_KWax_Jc7KMPJkK2Pz3i8rQBYS6NuPwtxz1qUibmYc149Noqc9JlRv5gm8_NY5Bx6Qxo01ZllsUCS9oj8UsErJWYd73I17ORXAn95uCjSbGJ_b/s320/9135_1258985194133_1214744218_30845538_1246342_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535372229563850354" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The DIY tipid tourists: Lhei, biyahera and Pyke (Squall took the pic)</span><br /><br />We went to Cebu for our Bohol tour--about which, I will rave in my next post (*smiles*). But instead of going straight to Tagbilaran, we dropped by in Cebu first. Being the budget travelers that we were, we thought that going straight to Tagbilaran would be more expensive in terms of airplane fare. Our plan is that from Cebu, we'll ride a fast craft to Tagbilaran and from there, to our target destinations in Bohol. This was indeed cheaper. Tagbilaran-bound flights are more expensive and according to a friend, rarely go on sale. Our Manila-Cebu-Manila fare was barely PHP800 at P399 for each flight. Thanks to Cebupac and Zestair promos! This has saved us almost two thousand pesos, plus we also got the chance to visit Cebu since most of us have not yet been there. Hence, to Cebu we went!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgea-rhqa7m5wALzMVCzCvy8BJZNy7ThbLTjUozHDyYeBrqdOf61aqUzBZEYVc8eEwCHIMO3Dhna_1y9RyI7_a7VcvJZgFzLNHMZyR9VNIb5DRmsVWvEGVgk-eurwO8NFL-bGOqksBPse6m/s1600/DSC00519.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgea-rhqa7m5wALzMVCzCvy8BJZNy7ThbLTjUozHDyYeBrqdOf61aqUzBZEYVc8eEwCHIMO3Dhna_1y9RyI7_a7VcvJZgFzLNHMZyR9VNIb5DRmsVWvEGVgk-eurwO8NFL-bGOqksBPse6m/s320/DSC00519.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543152372674529778" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Maayong pag-abot! :)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJwIyc2pVxCoJxKaalC-GNnAJTS2Tcg1uxj6Rk-SQ8L6pvh9zzPGBBnR_8pJ3CpvylU-xLOFLPRYTqDyxn8EFxq2mD3w0V8JhU2U53_l0W8yGGOEW4G2bAoyWusrqMtB-lSVz5Ky4S7D3B/s1600/9135_1258987994203_1214744218_30845545_4787997_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJwIyc2pVxCoJxKaalC-GNnAJTS2Tcg1uxj6Rk-SQ8L6pvh9zzPGBBnR_8pJ3CpvylU-xLOFLPRYTqDyxn8EFxq2mD3w0V8JhU2U53_l0W8yGGOEW4G2bAoyWusrqMtB-lSVz5Ky4S7D3B/s320/9135_1258987994203_1214744218_30845545_4787997_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535373998198582882" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Crossing the Mactan-Mandaue Bridge</span><br /><br />Upon arrival at the airport, we rode a fixed-rate taxi (approx.PHP300.00) to the port to buy tickets for our Tagbilaran trip (PHP500.00, one-way) the following day. From the port, we hailed a taxi again and proceeded to <span style="font-weight:bold;"><a href="http://laguardiahotelcebu.com/">LA GUARDIA HOTEL</a><a href="http://laguardiahotelcebu.com/"></a></span>. La Guardia was recommended to me by my Auntie Marty, who's also a savvy tipid traveler. The hotel is at the very heart of Colon and Osmena Street. It's just in front of Gaisano-Colon and near the Cebu Appliance Center, but still, it's not easy to find. First, it has a very narrow stair entrance and second, you have to pay close attention to notice the signage. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-GM2fokC1Tgyc6iUjGmyVn_idBJ7j-Wzy8yLeWolR10ZegEnNpA_7CjWaTcxY9afCIjUe_gBSMU_xIudzp5EKgF1F8gCEtxOaA3IWoiRu14CPilSSCCllQydAkSe2za0hbBS0WR8pNBC/s1600/lgh_deluxeroomtwin00.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 139px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-GM2fokC1Tgyc6iUjGmyVn_idBJ7j-Wzy8yLeWolR10ZegEnNpA_7CjWaTcxY9afCIjUe_gBSMU_xIudzp5EKgF1F8gCEtxOaA3IWoiRu14CPilSSCCllQydAkSe2za0hbBS0WR8pNBC/s320/lgh_deluxeroomtwin00.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535969864722645954" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">La Guardia Hotel (picture taken from their <a href="http://laguardiahotelcebu.com/">website)</a></span><br /><br />I am recommending this hotel because its rooms are large and neat--or at least at that time we were there--enough to appease any germ-phobe tendencies among us. Our room, however, has a trace of cigarette smell and the best that the personnel can do was to offer us a can of air-freshener. Squall and Pyke's room smelled better. The rooms were modestly decorated, although there is still that comfy atmosphere. There's TV with cable, cabinets, dresser, etc. The supposed single beds are big enough for two. Aircon's OK, blankets are thick, CRs are clean, and there's hot and cold shower. In other words, the rooms look more expensive than the actual PHP550 plus deposit of PHP100 we paid for a 24-hour rate! :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFRfz1sWfo94QJeQnNKLUXpSl6gAVrhSiLQSy3rV0BDx1_fkA5wIawXjnmZET5DsRDgP5jysNm6eBXCLp4PedwDJwZ2MmEiqPZhCllMMFez5cChVHaOMGJpe7TxOGmlV5N5-BqQX9KlfL/s1600/DSC00538.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFRfz1sWfo94QJeQnNKLUXpSl6gAVrhSiLQSy3rV0BDx1_fkA5wIawXjnmZET5DsRDgP5jysNm6eBXCLp4PedwDJwZ2MmEiqPZhCllMMFez5cChVHaOMGJpe7TxOGmlV5N5-BqQX9KlfL/s320/DSC00538.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542232091894913058" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Basilica Minore del Sto Niño</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxTmpppDTCnIMvUABSGrhSmLD8B-_5r9hRWu-akyU-8oSQXOjf4B000Ro3JJxwOn5mwv3BSUe3Qjmh-frDCjj1ZHrgFY3O_DNJyiTPRofUn-4Udx85wfQ2IsnncdJJTmEJvi24UY7Hf7g/s1600/9135_1259004194608_1214744218_30845708_1874632_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxTmpppDTCnIMvUABSGrhSmLD8B-_5r9hRWu-akyU-8oSQXOjf4B000Ro3JJxwOn5mwv3BSUe3Qjmh-frDCjj1ZHrgFY3O_DNJyiTPRofUn-4Udx85wfQ2IsnncdJJTmEJvi24UY7Hf7g/s320/9135_1259004194608_1214744218_30845708_1874632_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543155665642728434" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">A relief of the Sto Niño</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZO0yWghwoUS4rBQwenSkBXbj22xMgxHMABqyoDilCX0KbYh_-18c1MXAhGipYRPlliXvPcU0xZ-_7PZuZtxUySm7JHlReqfuJBqZnGS9RMXUyWnMD9UVwIanhx2uRU92ThamfaeVI-zts/s1600/9135_1259010554767_1214744218_30845738_4037753_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZO0yWghwoUS4rBQwenSkBXbj22xMgxHMABqyoDilCX0KbYh_-18c1MXAhGipYRPlliXvPcU0xZ-_7PZuZtxUySm7JHlReqfuJBqZnGS9RMXUyWnMD9UVwIanhx2uRU92ThamfaeVI-zts/s320/9135_1259010554767_1214744218_30845738_4037753_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542232080914548130" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The image of the miraculous Sto. Niño</span><br /><br />Due to our very limited time, we immediately proceeded to the first item in our itinerary--the <span style="font-weight:bold;">Basilica del Sto. Niño</span>. Basilica del Sto. Niño is a famous pilgrimage location in the Philippines. The image of the Sto. Niño (Holy Infant) is not just a precious religious and historical relic, but is also considered miraculous. Hence, we joined the long queue to get a chance to be near the image as well as offered our prayers in earnest (re passing the Bar exams, perhaps?) The Basilica Church, on the other hand, is also quite a sight, with its 16th-century Romanesque and neo-classical structure built on the very spot where the image of the Sto. Niño previously left behind by Magellan's team of explorers was unearthed by the Spanish conquerors. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbXDxy6fvrUKqUpjiIr39QNurac2h4xPiri8IUT4MisMhc3waTGGOM4_jEPKOZFI0f1ikkVjqBGuwvlAhbXrm4sdcPFsbODE7yBFJ1iRun_-LJW2cqMLB8NEPmqAjzL9oZHbHqKOE5m3Aw/s1600/9135_1258991674295_1214744218_30845555_7161369_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbXDxy6fvrUKqUpjiIr39QNurac2h4xPiri8IUT4MisMhc3waTGGOM4_jEPKOZFI0f1ikkVjqBGuwvlAhbXrm4sdcPFsbODE7yBFJ1iRun_-LJW2cqMLB8NEPmqAjzL9oZHbHqKOE5m3Aw/s320/9135_1258991674295_1214744218_30845555_7161369_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542232088080315506" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL2EWmt_UizpCZv_J9fRlm_GkYf8M3PT8V1yr4_06O5aQWpeTmKdSsV_Ym79RwTrRvDqXk78vd481bvjUJmUtIr2YEBp8KTSNpPIxI1-_LPbKgbKAwsTVRzgLcqJS0wpMCLqX1POP7vlP/s1600/9135_1259006794673_1214744218_30845726_4309617_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL2EWmt_UizpCZv_J9fRlm_GkYf8M3PT8V1yr4_06O5aQWpeTmKdSsV_Ym79RwTrRvDqXk78vd481bvjUJmUtIr2YEBp8KTSNpPIxI1-_LPbKgbKAwsTVRzgLcqJS0wpMCLqX1POP7vlP/s320/9135_1259006794673_1214744218_30845726_4309617_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542241873086062034" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The author and her travel friends: Top: With Lhei and Squall. Bottom: With Lheila, in front of the Basilica</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkIexhque9jyer0FnHn4sRS1jF3KYi2xfyX9U6jOTvCA-8juqYIGUGjT3J814RX2iEjSTTiY7m4119LTIJetIHlT-XoQxklfzNgXhqGivOa62Fp46KPc-7fUFACaTt4H0IT4wXJW7Uz-B/s1600/DSC00532.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkIexhque9jyer0FnHn4sRS1jF3KYi2xfyX9U6jOTvCA-8juqYIGUGjT3J814RX2iEjSTTiY7m4119LTIJetIHlT-XoQxklfzNgXhqGivOa62Fp46KPc-7fUFACaTt4H0IT4wXJW7Uz-B/s320/DSC00532.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543148513102812626" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Each candle represents a prayer</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaADg5dO2QcvPDoZXJxLdEcVONOkTsUWCRjumVcwAGYUf2WTlbjYuzBl86TsxCSqe87Blq1XvNWK11Sf5WIRZ3rxZ0n4TJqukSHxgePmXEmlHi9b1YVfTL6qnze5FbM0rGy0zDxRjUjaK/s1600/DSC00531.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaADg5dO2QcvPDoZXJxLdEcVONOkTsUWCRjumVcwAGYUf2WTlbjYuzBl86TsxCSqe87Blq1XvNWK11Sf5WIRZ3rxZ0n4TJqukSHxgePmXEmlHi9b1YVfTL6qnze5FbM0rGy0zDxRjUjaK/s320/DSC00531.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543154503826590386" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX9pCMq7su5T7Y-bk8oJRZ0OuZ9_akhWpmF8cT9XLTAawvGT5ybnMK-1NoDhgllU1u1fvbaI6YjwU3Rn2A3E_77wVkjVJ1k5_4mhD0wOyxBiMJKD3JrP8i1qxqdB_YXhu7GvuHXfyhJ57m/s1600/9135_1259004114606_1214744218_30845706_7499824_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX9pCMq7su5T7Y-bk8oJRZ0OuZ9_akhWpmF8cT9XLTAawvGT5ybnMK-1NoDhgllU1u1fvbaI6YjwU3Rn2A3E_77wVkjVJ1k5_4mhD0wOyxBiMJKD3JrP8i1qxqdB_YXhu7GvuHXfyhJ57m/s320/9135_1259004114606_1214744218_30845706_7499824_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542232086337776562" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Pyke here, solemn in his prayers</span><br /><br />A short distance from the Basilica is the famed <span style="font-weight:bold;">Magellan's Cross</span>. A little review of Philippine history (on my part included hehe), Magellan's Cross symbolizes the start of Christianity in the country, which led to its being the only Catholic country in Asia. The story is that the Portuguese explorer, Magellan, upon arrival in Cebu in 1521, erected a large wooden cross to mark the start of Christianization therein. Cebu's Rajah Humaton and his wife, Juana, were both baptized along with their family and around 800 of their followers. <br /> <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjukeZmSbCYtKu0EQzo4pnuEgyHHyhs2QGyodf3pV0gmOiAUA8g9kYewyr7ao9RyUiQ86bTxCPSW-gv3BfGObMpSxOQ7OQ9vwjwgSXAEsgvE70dFiIdBOpxCrpivT-luF3xMQ4jsGYPy0iN/s1600/DSC00529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjukeZmSbCYtKu0EQzo4pnuEgyHHyhs2QGyodf3pV0gmOiAUA8g9kYewyr7ao9RyUiQ86bTxCPSW-gv3BfGObMpSxOQ7OQ9vwjwgSXAEsgvE70dFiIdBOpxCrpivT-luF3xMQ4jsGYPy0iN/s320/DSC00529.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542239351498845474" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The chapel housing the Magellan's Cross</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp3u-IdhhVeIAOFr1ftfWKDh0SIQqFfd0FdqDkCqrgkxm2rpOnPj1JTMJCNJBiZsx-9P9LmxE_tA0-TmY0tS5x_oatri4zDLTeve4EwdsUOW_Zfr8UlNmfKs0Z0lX7pvqnJRKwRkpHz7nj/s1600/DSC00526.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp3u-IdhhVeIAOFr1ftfWKDh0SIQqFfd0FdqDkCqrgkxm2rpOnPj1JTMJCNJBiZsx-9P9LmxE_tA0-TmY0tS5x_oatri4zDLTeve4EwdsUOW_Zfr8UlNmfKs0Z0lX7pvqnJRKwRkpHz7nj/s320/DSC00526.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543150141906701266" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQwoVGPv6tf0RHqu2MG9zNpxfUmoFgm9hRW4zFxqZ5D_BVng4DgqNweHMJILEiwzypTHuEhLnbRiuzD_Rwt9JD14vnlwCV-FzAD61SA0YwaeR2YAUYoueV8zZiJ8GSBd1xYG9Oan9AwgCJ/s1600/9135_1258989394238_1214744218_30845549_4222736_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQwoVGPv6tf0RHqu2MG9zNpxfUmoFgm9hRW4zFxqZ5D_BVng4DgqNweHMJILEiwzypTHuEhLnbRiuzD_Rwt9JD14vnlwCV-FzAD61SA0YwaeR2YAUYoueV8zZiJ8GSBd1xYG9Oan9AwgCJ/s320/9135_1258989394238_1214744218_30845549_4222736_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541730814115966626" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjesi1yFf6AL6CyCPRVlkeHDoRyUd0MAX4XdnWesLqW6goBZprwag7_R2SOy57HqLN9iliaYdPkgB-dB1AhnWdN0CdWrmsarbfXMCkn0CZuCRIychhF2x5ZPA6MZQTmweeztirlwkdBsp9W/s1600/9135_1258989314236_1214744218_30845547_2738520_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjesi1yFf6AL6CyCPRVlkeHDoRyUd0MAX4XdnWesLqW6goBZprwag7_R2SOy57HqLN9iliaYdPkgB-dB1AhnWdN0CdWrmsarbfXMCkn0CZuCRIychhF2x5ZPA6MZQTmweeztirlwkdBsp9W/s320/9135_1258989314236_1214744218_30845547_2738520_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541730809995116386" /></a><br /><br />The crucifix in the chapel, however, is no longer the real cross brought by Magellan. The original giant cross deteriorated through the years so that another one, a replica, was built and erected in its stead. This is the cross now seen by visitors who frequent the place, although pieces of the original cross were placed inside the hollow of the new cross. <br /><br />Outside the Magellan's Cross chapel is another cultural showcase. I am referring to the dancing <span style="font-weight:bold;">prayer ladies </span>(I actually do not know the correct term lol :P ) who offer to recite prayers for visitors while performing a prayer dance. I bought five candles from one of the ladies, supposedly to represent the different aspects of my life (family life, career life, love life *wink*, etc.), and watched her mumble a litany as she performed her dance and gaily waved the candles. I know I'm supposed to pray along but I can't help but watch with keen interest. Nonetheless, I hoped in the potency of her prayers :) <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxVemQYJWF3NvMSzhERUXGsbKC-XuTZaqeNQmX_2IeOHLNsA8TVJKmIGwqy5pKWH4pnYR1Vx7ZKC0sbVsPyKweWp6ZcuadgjAn5XbQ0ltwxbH5iUA3Hq0YhYkH_V_ct04q3WS1IKeN7jN/s1600/DSC00528.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxVemQYJWF3NvMSzhERUXGsbKC-XuTZaqeNQmX_2IeOHLNsA8TVJKmIGwqy5pKWH4pnYR1Vx7ZKC0sbVsPyKweWp6ZcuadgjAn5XbQ0ltwxbH5iUA3Hq0YhYkH_V_ct04q3WS1IKeN7jN/s320/DSC00528.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543150876403889346" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPa6U0T9w13ajQHUCDEs5AQ_iYqB77qH6WJee2bgwY9Z-LatGFlCgzmRiCrYC6qD0ACO2AQgu9WEeVYBeqEkhUwWbj4ZpU1lKxUfhk_RSg7ecHdFMTtZNjUlGzuTUXQFPPsdH24u17816P/s1600/9135_1258993074330_1214744218_30845557_4177142_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPa6U0T9w13ajQHUCDEs5AQ_iYqB77qH6WJee2bgwY9Z-LatGFlCgzmRiCrYC6qD0ACO2AQgu9WEeVYBeqEkhUwWbj4ZpU1lKxUfhk_RSg7ecHdFMTtZNjUlGzuTUXQFPPsdH24u17816P/s320/9135_1258993074330_1214744218_30845557_4177142_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542243729375653058" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ladies in Yellow--They recite prayers for you while dancing, for a fee of course :)</span><br /><br />I've seen these dancing prayer ladies featured in a TV show one time and it was said that the culture is already dwindling. I feel sad about this and wish that their profession, if ever you can call it as such--or perhaps "devotion" is a better term-- will be passed on to the next generations of yellow-clad dancing prayer ladies.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieTGtKyaBfYLaRBh_gLX8ATfNOcr6LVTvCY8J4zueqKCy4rVauAYSd79VIv8GwQPxmf1HgRmV173AJ_obRILXcjA2PC4e48yPqh3VRNP-DRF2UCBrliAS9F6Xic2f9dLllMKLqHJtUORsc/s1600/9135_1259016634919_1214744218_30845758_545717_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieTGtKyaBfYLaRBh_gLX8ATfNOcr6LVTvCY8J4zueqKCy4rVauAYSd79VIv8GwQPxmf1HgRmV173AJ_obRILXcjA2PC4e48yPqh3VRNP-DRF2UCBrliAS9F6Xic2f9dLllMKLqHJtUORsc/s320/9135_1259016634919_1214744218_30845758_545717_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542239355088412898" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Dusk time in Cebu</span><br /><br />After our religious pilgrimage to the Sto. Niño, it was almost night-time and I suggested that we go to the THE WALK, a gimmick spot in Cebu. We decided against it last minute though, because we wanted to eat dinner at CnT--the restaurant touted to serve the best lechon! We heeded Lheila's suggestion instead and made <span style="font-style:italic;">usisa</span> at the Waterfront Hotel before we have dinner:) <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYHK9EFkK6dsmgD6ypY8FMSFWAGB-2NcSByuCo7Ev60WUS6YP1nwJOeTrXXugPe-whJihhuZwrYP-JSIYsmSWcYIusZF4Azbk2VQTtb5j_qrnxl7_dK5E4E90zB5j3kLXivJZ-1qO_lud9/s1600/DSC00543.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYHK9EFkK6dsmgD6ypY8FMSFWAGB-2NcSByuCo7Ev60WUS6YP1nwJOeTrXXugPe-whJihhuZwrYP-JSIYsmSWcYIusZF4Azbk2VQTtb5j_qrnxl7_dK5E4E90zB5j3kLXivJZ-1qO_lud9/s320/DSC00543.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542241878551315874" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The relaxing view of Waterfront Hotel's beautiful swimming pool</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj824NZ5wS50M1PmRaUtrW5ggimHGTDF3sSTyiBek4Sx0qHt0WCoRsoXGowNriDaO9TBWWOwrCKffQ1cQL6tUSAFFyzyI-9-z2Dzn-bfltm4g5t4RZ4m6hiHrolHU0Vp9dXje1yoYxJJySA/s1600/9135_1259018634969_1214744218_30845770_1374463_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj824NZ5wS50M1PmRaUtrW5ggimHGTDF3sSTyiBek4Sx0qHt0WCoRsoXGowNriDaO9TBWWOwrCKffQ1cQL6tUSAFFyzyI-9-z2Dzn-bfltm4g5t4RZ4m6hiHrolHU0Vp9dXje1yoYxJJySA/s320/9135_1259018634969_1214744218_30845770_1374463_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542239354483264274" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Near the pool area at the Waterfront Hotel</span><br /><br />We worked up an appetite during our Waterfront Hotel stroll so that we headed to CnT hungry and super craving for scrumptious lechon (roasted pig) and crunchy lechon skin, only to arrive at an already empty place!!! The waiters who were clearing away leftovers told us that they've closed for the night. Imagine, the restaurant closed at 7PM! All the lechons are sold out. Gone. <span style="font-style:italic;">Ganyan sya ka in demand</span> hehehe...So poor us, tardy tourists :) The disappointment increased our resolve to return there on our way back from Tagbilaran--and to be a little earlier!<br /><br />Anyways, we just ate our dinner at SM Cebu, bought some supplies and <span style="font-style:italic;">baon</span> for our Tagbilaran trip the following day and went back to our super <span style="font-style:italic;">sulit</span> hotel. Snooze time after that. Next day, Tagbilaran, Bohol! :) <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqfvDzfiUftwOcuyWOm1tLKlMQ7ot8ofIyZfssPoBjkzgB-MdsZGcFOLK7EfDd2nU2EcEceCfp9zKIXf6AdWL9uCswoXlkXaKqCCZjLfdQkFKeQNUZa_Ma-K82LtW2uAbnd4KUaOSvfjj/s1600/DSC00549.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqfvDzfiUftwOcuyWOm1tLKlMQ7ot8ofIyZfssPoBjkzgB-MdsZGcFOLK7EfDd2nU2EcEceCfp9zKIXf6AdWL9uCswoXlkXaKqCCZjLfdQkFKeQNUZa_Ma-K82LtW2uAbnd4KUaOSvfjj/s320/DSC00549.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542241881977195170" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Next Base, Bohol: Fast crafts like Oceanjet (there's also Supercat and Weesam) cater daily trips to Tagbilaran</span><br /><br />After my very short stay at Cebu, I hope that I'd be able to go back to explore its other many wonders. Even without a solid plan yet, I'm already excited for my return back in the arms of the Queen City where I hope to linger for a longer time.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">How To's and Other Tips:</span><br /><br />1) Cebu can be reached from Manila by airplane, ferry, and bus or land vehicle--the latter is made possible through RORO. The quickest way is by plane, of course, which only takes around an hour. Fare in airplane depends on the distance and timing of booking. Our discounted tickets only cost Php399 each. Going there by boat, by Superferry or RORO, takes around 24 hours. There are also entry points other than Manila since Cebu can be accessed from other local airport in the country, such as Legazpi, Davao, Iloilo, Cagayan, etc. For international travelers, Cebu has an international airport in Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan, Cebu. There are flights to and from Seoul,Busan, Tokyo, Narita, Doha, Singapore and Hongkong.<br /><br />2) Restaurants and hotels of all classes--from five-star accommodation to lowly, uber cheap lodges--abound. Also, there's surely a gastronomic feast waiting for the foodie adventurer in Cebu at prices that can be surprisingly cheap.<br /><br />3) Cebu is known for its dried fruits (dried mangoes) and dried fish products.<br /><br />4) Cebu has her share of beautiful beaches and islands, such as the Camotes Island and the beaches in Moalboal and Badian. These are my future travel destinations, hopefully!<br /><br />5) Overall, there are many fun things to do in Cebu. The Skywalk Adventure at Crown Regency Hotel is an example (the list is too long to mention!hehe). One thing is certain, tourists will never run out of gimmick spots while in the city. <br /><br />6) Cebu may also be a jump-off point to other locations in the Visayas, like Tagbilaran, Ormoc, Dumaguete,etc.<br /><br />7) Travel around the city is relatively cheap. Our taxi fare for all our rides rarely reached Php100.00, the average being just Php 60.00. So, just ride and enjoy! Or for greater adventure, ride the jeepney. Just arm yourself with a map or you can simply ask around :)Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-82128009547054404852010-10-28T21:40:00.001+08:002010-11-01T06:49:58.918+08:00BAG OF BEANS: Something Good is Brewing in Tagaytay<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdvRHQnQA1L-ieTzHTlOs-p4Uphx8bCrEkyqCpTVa5795cYgAla10I0WhxFnaSM7VCIxP8r5-vLFyjgvNePmJHtnnnQ88NqRy6i6nJYzCjYRQp-jlxR8MuIcCZPT-nGoS5KuRv-sEhanwz/s1600/DSCF0159.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdvRHQnQA1L-ieTzHTlOs-p4Uphx8bCrEkyqCpTVa5795cYgAla10I0WhxFnaSM7VCIxP8r5-vLFyjgvNePmJHtnnnQ88NqRy6i6nJYzCjYRQp-jlxR8MuIcCZPT-nGoS5KuRv-sEhanwz/s320/DSCF0159.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532921286723629714" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">(pls. click on picture for larger view)</span><br /><br />After a filling meal at <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/10/balinsasayaw-foodie-haven-at-silang.html"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Balinsasayaw</span></a> in Silang, Cavite <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/10/bag-of-beans-something-good-is-brewing.html">(previous post)</a>, girlfriends and I decided to continue our afternoon rendezvous at one of the highly recommended foodie and coffee-lover locations in Tagaytay, one whose name has gained an increasing following already. Hence, our biyahera feet took us to <span style="font-weight:bold;"><a href="http://bagofbeanstagaytay.com/">BAG OF BEANS</a></span> for some delicious afternoon coffee, more girly talks and not to mention, more posing for the pics! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dnZU7YeuYekKdOX_jva3jads6TiiC_GWwiAbX-LmW0LH60rFs2xJoijeKxocSzPZP-P52JmZqXsu519wS0FjpEFnTu6enILV2l4EQMIEsT40AdEtT3oZb-AHTyqUqFsppwlHmxRGgvf7/s1600/41053_422030069929_667359929_4936596_4129501_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dnZU7YeuYekKdOX_jva3jads6TiiC_GWwiAbX-LmW0LH60rFs2xJoijeKxocSzPZP-P52JmZqXsu519wS0FjpEFnTu6enILV2l4EQMIEsT40AdEtT3oZb-AHTyqUqFsppwlHmxRGgvf7/s320/41053_422030069929_667359929_4936596_4129501_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532935038132729314" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Bloc 62 forever! :)</span><br /><br />Yup, we're as satiated as self-indulgent wild felines after our hefty lunch, but the eagerness for new experience and of course, for quality time in the company each other, kept us going. This time around we did not encounter any trouble in finding our destination,it being located just along Aguinaldo Highway (Mendez crossing West). Plus, it was easy to spot the "Bag of Beans" signage. <br /><br />The facade of this coffee shop gave me the impression that it's just a typical, small and simple coffee shop."Now, what's the fuss all about?" was my mental question. But once we got inside...well, wow! My skeptic mind was hushed...IT IS WORTH THE FUSS, after all. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUDfD87tiDEgbhFp_7VOf0OmQ1RdKtKJ2QWf0fCBeGW7M64qVb9Vnnj_0_SvfbLCYtz1yEs-PTJ_84YqNvQ_29J0fmZjgin8_C17LhQXMBxjX0In8asHqBNXevqAOoalWMiMz_Yo4nfxU/s1600/41053_422030064929_667359929_4936595_2901339_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUDfD87tiDEgbhFp_7VOf0OmQ1RdKtKJ2QWf0fCBeGW7M64qVb9Vnnj_0_SvfbLCYtz1yEs-PTJ_84YqNvQ_29J0fmZjgin8_C17LhQXMBxjX0In8asHqBNXevqAOoalWMiMz_Yo4nfxU/s320/41053_422030064929_667359929_4936595_2901339_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532923381030523714" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ms. E & Ms. K, so comfy here, enjoying a breather from their busy scheds :) </span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDwdrak3wcJxowjAul-PcQkZgSH3E4JptmZyfLUzX53C4PBsmB1zIwh6z1spul_0FsPF_JwwbWdjkU7kRbtfRMyGAh-hwEpZgr81VwOmXRux6-6_72ycftsIaLDAAvV5st66lJ13pN5or3/s1600/DSCF0173.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDwdrak3wcJxowjAul-PcQkZgSH3E4JptmZyfLUzX53C4PBsmB1zIwh6z1spul_0FsPF_JwwbWdjkU7kRbtfRMyGAh-hwEpZgr81VwOmXRux6-6_72ycftsIaLDAAvV5st66lJ13pN5or3/s320/DSCF0173.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532935043489434722" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ms. G, looking pretty despite the dahon :) peace, LOL!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGDSdWV5CzW628tzowqZq9Ab0bhfO2UTOAVHEFPjkkVzCzi4O4M7C4C_nJAgjcYuKEwiDVTCsJx4LV4kj9i92MiQfI7yePucU3pJDTXPjzmPt9in2QpgNdMfOuzwLJDvRo3YlYiB7Swbv0/s1600/47309_431608904799_842354799_4725627_5826563_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGDSdWV5CzW628tzowqZq9Ab0bhfO2UTOAVHEFPjkkVzCzi4O4M7C4C_nJAgjcYuKEwiDVTCsJx4LV4kj9i92MiQfI7yePucU3pJDTXPjzmPt9in2QpgNdMfOuzwLJDvRo3YlYiB7Swbv0/s320/47309_431608904799_842354799_4725627_5826563_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532935045578481250" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">At eto din si Ms.E, so cool and poised even after the drive (pls. take note of her new bracelet hehe)</span><br /><br />It's like stepping into an entirely different place--ala space and time warp ba hehe. Ok, exaggeration aside, the place is a mix of trendy and antique, of native and exotic. The overall effect achieved by its interior design is that of utter coziness, comfort and warmth. Upon entering, you'll see open cabanas or cottage-like cubicles embellished with wide white sofas and throw pillows and whose big windows are draped with immaculate white curtains. Of course the choice of ornamental plants contributed also to the coziness of the atmosphere. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHajry6U_Ml4tUqipA9xC1GnQImTPK0STEPUTFEGQVR2qMbMlxlmkJDnoFM1BDSfiyFW-gEV5rL05bTRD27fLTwLGybupfgv7bTNroMZs5yq_zFg5-Qxnwcc8Zu-lhn7c4JuU90xTCk7A/s1600/41053_422030054929_667359929_4936594_4102385_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHajry6U_Ml4tUqipA9xC1GnQImTPK0STEPUTFEGQVR2qMbMlxlmkJDnoFM1BDSfiyFW-gEV5rL05bTRD27fLTwLGybupfgv7bTNroMZs5yq_zFg5-Qxnwcc8Zu-lhn7c4JuU90xTCk7A/s320/41053_422030054929_667359929_4936594_4102385_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532923368989376674" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">O ayan panay me hawak na camera...mga photo-addicts!!! :)</span><br /><br />Moving onward, inside the main building is a feast for the artistic eye.While, it's on that side of the road not facing the marvelous Taal Volcano, I guess the place quite made up for this by embellishing beautifully. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHmsijT18OQgUmWYtsxMbKiLbF8CLM5Rjg-9tFYIO2FvNx1hefowuJTzAWofMW8dibS2m2QRq9B_6hRbA-lG2Qhk1GpV1jNQRw-LWi_lWZRaqwgXCRC5S-YiOGOLR897d7kZyOhhV_otKm/s1600/58485_431607899799_842354799_4725612_7177224_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHmsijT18OQgUmWYtsxMbKiLbF8CLM5Rjg-9tFYIO2FvNx1hefowuJTzAWofMW8dibS2m2QRq9B_6hRbA-lG2Qhk1GpV1jNQRw-LWi_lWZRaqwgXCRC5S-YiOGOLR897d7kZyOhhV_otKm/s320/58485_431607899799_842354799_4725612_7177224_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532931922677507202" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jphfihfqa7QTehlp4-nnlO_hyphenhyphen3DactnCZt4E3fQ9uoAXT4yi3X2erO6E-ExPBueNJJiotKAw3_4NjuMDb8i1uTXubDsBqy-CQAOHmrOqop2PNOkp1mDILna9C1CkpBDmlfzadiIfuCYh/s1600/48039_431607549799_842354799_4725606_7249614_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jphfihfqa7QTehlp4-nnlO_hyphenhyphen3DactnCZt4E3fQ9uoAXT4yi3X2erO6E-ExPBueNJJiotKAw3_4NjuMDb8i1uTXubDsBqy-CQAOHmrOqop2PNOkp1mDILna9C1CkpBDmlfzadiIfuCYh/s320/48039_431607549799_842354799_4725606_7249614_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532931918607342546" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">I so love!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuj1VzrmiqbERm5Ot5DRT3gpPcfBF5Cf6Y5Odyenc8Z9zWo9HqjHdpLJKjOsmv0dHMjm9ZcWuifGDiE8RLUi-ZCANGg1Eg7hVL0csUn6J5nKdZw4IbPJUbTNf1t06I56Xljk-Ev5fj7A51/s1600/58485_431607904799_842354799_4725613_4403925_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuj1VzrmiqbERm5Ot5DRT3gpPcfBF5Cf6Y5Odyenc8Z9zWo9HqjHdpLJKjOsmv0dHMjm9ZcWuifGDiE8RLUi-ZCANGg1Eg7hVL0csUn6J5nKdZw4IbPJUbTNf1t06I56Xljk-Ev5fj7A51/s320/58485_431607904799_842354799_4725613_4403925_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532923379273332258" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The girls' afternoon treat</span><br /><br /><br />It seems that going to BAG OF BEANS is not just about drinking coffee--although they do make good brews! There is an added specialness in being surrounded with the relaxing beauty of the place. In other words, there is added value to the experience, which makes the distance, travel and every penny, worth it. As I've said already, the place is worth the fuss and hype. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPjaGlBJXOlGOopaLoIbulRoAyuWkGPYf0-w3bgD8QLClnlXSRG7Hv_8x0uEPyzp9uKar5mkbfhjMGDytT2rsSzN03Y2vKFJZ-IpIMtcw-5XIwoJliyHuoMo27C2XOcGddp7PWIOGUXEKW/s1600/41266_422031404929_667359929_4936609_583282_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPjaGlBJXOlGOopaLoIbulRoAyuWkGPYf0-w3bgD8QLClnlXSRG7Hv_8x0uEPyzp9uKar5mkbfhjMGDytT2rsSzN03Y2vKFJZ-IpIMtcw-5XIwoJliyHuoMo27C2XOcGddp7PWIOGUXEKW/s320/41266_422031404929_667359929_4936609_583282_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532928068883820866" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">It really was worth the try!</span><br /><br />I first heard about Bag of Beans with respect to its Coffee Alamid, but I came to learn that, unfortunately, they are no longer serving this rare specialty. I instead ordered a cappuccino, a classic favorite not only because of its cinnamon-laced taste but also because it has far lesser calories than its popular sisters, the latte and mocha. Ironic, however, that after all the calories I already consumed, I still have the gall to think about "less calories"!! LOl. And I think I completely negated this reasoning by ordering the cappuccino variety spiked with uber sweet caramel.<br /><br />Reo ordered a yummy caramel machiatto; Grace a rich, full-bodied hot chocolate; and Eden and Kresta, creamy mango and melon shakes, as refreshing coolers that afternoon. The cappuccino and macchiato cost PHP 95 each; the hot choco, Php105; and the fruit shakes, PHP105 each. If you wanna check out further Bag of Bean's menu, you may click its link here: http://bagofbeanstagaytay.com/documents/menu.html<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOBVfuMFGK5O7dUj7aP0z2tRSwq1HDA5zTF9i3FG7IlbR6Yrof7NAgTx3deOhSDJUdf3-CYU0-72k2ERtBupCkqIiZqzzuTDTzPisEnXWSg6tDbC9E27Zxir7rYmNa9tH6w7k9E5zTUkF/s1600/DSCF0167.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOBVfuMFGK5O7dUj7aP0z2tRSwq1HDA5zTF9i3FG7IlbR6Yrof7NAgTx3deOhSDJUdf3-CYU0-72k2ERtBupCkqIiZqzzuTDTzPisEnXWSg6tDbC9E27Zxir7rYmNa9tH6w7k9E5zTUkF/s320/DSCF0167.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532928111920684690" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">My caramel cappuccino and Ms. R's caramel macchiato</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1hTl57WA7nBpqHtIhmRKIXfGMsZWHnRipmGl500TQFxgw2zsL1MD5byf9kLpaMzQEQ3RBce8Liwx8qEb2gtgCN5-SZWG9IwSssi7cCNG_tacC-r80jk00mOawJkNftXmNkBvvJAaTQ4G/s1600/DSCF0169.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1hTl57WA7nBpqHtIhmRKIXfGMsZWHnRipmGl500TQFxgw2zsL1MD5byf9kLpaMzQEQ3RBce8Liwx8qEb2gtgCN5-SZWG9IwSssi7cCNG_tacC-r80jk00mOawJkNftXmNkBvvJAaTQ4G/s320/DSCF0169.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532923369215600642" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ms. G, enjoying her rich hot choco :)</span> <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8dnCuBmwikQoiwDU4kist3Y0Tjgpr9LZKjGv_qnGtlk0bzIoxifujrXFzDf1WGMyhWlHjjIacEhharl34lyv5qbz4bR057-_wKLtPmLoGIHuwySmh28alQMITsiKyau-EbV0oHtM01GKH/s1600/58554_431609269799_842354799_4725633_360221_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8dnCuBmwikQoiwDU4kist3Y0Tjgpr9LZKjGv_qnGtlk0bzIoxifujrXFzDf1WGMyhWlHjjIacEhharl34lyv5qbz4bR057-_wKLtPmLoGIHuwySmh28alQMITsiKyau-EbV0oHtM01GKH/s320/58554_431609269799_842354799_4725633_360221_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532928081132454434" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ms. R...smiling for the camera in between sips of her coffee</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrymyl9OCbi_KWY-95ISJWDvoLVmiYeB0Xkaw5MkyAt6VKStP18xYCrGjA2U0hssT-Uf8HTzIdf2N-gCEiBcLx8PVmKsFjNHYdrpx9IyidyZT_Ez8tCKOD22DgwTCsLAnhH9YCy25pHPRw/s1600/47301_431608499799_842354799_4725619_195501_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrymyl9OCbi_KWY-95ISJWDvoLVmiYeB0Xkaw5MkyAt6VKStP18xYCrGjA2U0hssT-Uf8HTzIdf2N-gCEiBcLx8PVmKsFjNHYdrpx9IyidyZT_Ez8tCKOD22DgwTCsLAnhH9YCy25pHPRw/s320/47301_431608499799_842354799_4725619_195501_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532928092873587282" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Refreshing fresh fruit shakes!</span><br /><br />We haven't tried the pastries and breads, on account that we were still full, but I've heard rave reviews about Bag of Bean's baked products as well as its main courses, pastas, etc. At least, there is something to look forward to and something left to try on my next visits to this amazing place :)<blockquote></blockquote>Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-14008259086716855782010-10-24T00:22:00.000+08:002010-11-27T01:08:30.745+08:00BALINSASAYAW -- a foodie haven at Silang, Cavite<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUz5QBFzciP0kJt6SdKjiBVGO1cCiJczaUBlDrf-au6uMEWEIf97sGHToDSjiq6NJGvlPGB8LsXVYJV12IER0FiuIrc7sXJ6J78Ez1yidk_NjQ9EFARqBxa264N6I76eqmskMnfuKb51R/s1600/DSCF0145.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUz5QBFzciP0kJt6SdKjiBVGO1cCiJczaUBlDrf-au6uMEWEIf97sGHToDSjiq6NJGvlPGB8LsXVYJV12IER0FiuIrc7sXJ6J78Ez1yidk_NjQ9EFARqBxa264N6I76eqmskMnfuKb51R/s320/DSCF0145.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531342064244648754" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The author, biyahera, with her college girlfriends(just before gorging their lunch)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ang Muling Pagkikita--Where to Eat?</span><br /><br />That morning my college girlfriends (blocmates) decided to meet for lunch, we came to the inevitable part when we are stumped with the question of where to dine. All we know is that we'd like to have it in Tagaytay, or somewhere near Tagaytay, so that there is still that feel of being in a weekend get-away. We haven't seen each other for a long time and we all seem to deserve the long afternoon break. Eden--our pretty and exceptional driver--was the first to suggest <span style="font-weight:bold;">BALINSASAYAW</span>, as per the recommendation of her "friend" :). <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OLw58ZO1-8vEzgOatYKKhT49XHZDI_g402R09N3LrwEmAuwuIroJIxYCrTUDiprG2BoLaRTHf75W3D1ELuI5BmD-YMvK9m06QCilwK3J8213ATKo-8eBkb2Jrrf4UmuEtMAHFFWOuajJ/s1600/59442_422024604929_667359929_4936479_1783861_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 208px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OLw58ZO1-8vEzgOatYKKhT49XHZDI_g402R09N3LrwEmAuwuIroJIxYCrTUDiprG2BoLaRTHf75W3D1ELuI5BmD-YMvK9m06QCilwK3J8213ATKo-8eBkb2Jrrf4UmuEtMAHFFWOuajJ/s320/59442_422024604929_667359929_4936479_1783861_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531342053145369746" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Balinsasayaw @ Silang, Cavite (pls. click pictures for larger view)</span> <br /><br />"Di ba sa Palawan yan?" was our instant reaction. Little did we know (or perhaps I know very little about Cavite hehe) that there really is a Balinsasayaw in <span style="font-weight:bold;">Silang, Cavite</span> situated just along the roadside of the national highway. Hence, we, five excited but also increasingly hungry girls, headed to Silang, Cavite in search of our target food trip location. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-K5_Ns2bRLAZTBARzInN0Z2CeFekbe9PUuhvpI-B_POQtt7GjHP1Pvduc2o_SdckNmtb7tRm25OOXQHP4ah0AAI47eyCAs2QwoBmo_wK5VeRF120LsTCnWzpH5cG_EHh5QIpqyPwWOCd/s1600/58553_422018494929_667359929_4936285_8057335_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-K5_Ns2bRLAZTBARzInN0Z2CeFekbe9PUuhvpI-B_POQtt7GjHP1Pvduc2o_SdckNmtb7tRm25OOXQHP4ah0AAI47eyCAs2QwoBmo_wK5VeRF120LsTCnWzpH5cG_EHh5QIpqyPwWOCd/s320/58553_422018494929_667359929_4936285_8057335_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531346936674177026" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Let our forces combine...the girls, now all dolled up, are direction savvy in finding the place</span><br /><br /><br />One good thing about Cavite (particularly areas near Tagaytay) is that there is a wide choice of <span style="font-style:italic;">food-trip</span> destinations for foodies eager to try new gastronomic experiences or to enjoy old-time favorites--or both! For many busy people in the Metro (my girlfriends, for instance), Cavite is also a wonderful escape for a quick weekend interlude--away from the busyness of the city, the congestion, the noise and heat of traffic and of course, away from the ubiquitous presence of workplace stressors, unless na lang the boss and clients are still constantly texting, di ba Eds? ;D <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8OFilwxGGqdtFpFxt15UhET8-vp8ZKLop2GOdf6UE0L5FqFnmBRtnQ8I4GhsQ4sPx-Gjh-1xurGQSRFv1jX5FI_RtObAGCVMbzb-sL2PN4hnuzATY4MUIXnH9LbON7TQwv1U5qxTxUc4/s1600/46737_431607099799_842354799_4725581_7580514_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8OFilwxGGqdtFpFxt15UhET8-vp8ZKLop2GOdf6UE0L5FqFnmBRtnQ8I4GhsQ4sPx-Gjh-1xurGQSRFv1jX5FI_RtObAGCVMbzb-sL2PN4hnuzATY4MUIXnH9LbON7TQwv1U5qxTxUc4/s320/46737_431607099799_842354799_4725581_7580514_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531360409590351458" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ms.E, who's been so generous with her time and effort to drive us around :)</span> <br /><br />Besides the easy, relaxed ambiance that starkly contrasts the hectic bustle of Manila, the place also boasts of a cooler climate and of course, a view of the one-of-a-kind Taal Volcano during the drive on the way. It is only more or less an hour's drive away from the city depending of course on the driver's familiarity with the place. Our Eden is quite of a speed driver, although a careful one hehe...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Travel and Arrival</span><br /><br />We didn't know where Balinsasayaw is; we didn't even know that it's in Silang. All the while we thought it's in Tagaytay, so we had to search for the place barehanded using only our women's intuition. Ehem, well the truth is, Kres and Eds tapped their boyfriends for instructions. I don't have that, so I just kept my mouth shut hehe. After several turns and U-turns we finally found Balinsasayaw (it was Reo who saw the signage), tucked quietly at one of the corners of Silang, Cavite. Hurray! Hungry as we were, we powdered first and retouched our lipstick/lipgloss before bravely meeting the world where the possibility of meeting cuties abound :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk6TbuXkwDBnetbuCLUyVpfiljwYU3UNCpFYiWPgHNt-ib09aLqF0LSuu5nxr6XZWF9jD0k7mcSOaZw4veDf0VwrZYaLBOLtG2nqMUFZhujeBXLVQsQhyphenhyphenTDLGlfZZBt_1qF8QGPYSwdfqD/s1600/59244_422029334929_667359929_4936587_3530509_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 210px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk6TbuXkwDBnetbuCLUyVpfiljwYU3UNCpFYiWPgHNt-ib09aLqF0LSuu5nxr6XZWF9jD0k7mcSOaZw4veDf0VwrZYaLBOLtG2nqMUFZhujeBXLVQsQhyphenhyphenTDLGlfZZBt_1qF8QGPYSwdfqD/s320/59244_422029334929_667359929_4936587_3530509_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531342055941312674" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSwC1_-tnm1T8lpgSwLKsJJVuW2rJLn5oUHS82qcbIX4IlcMS5MO24FKYZYq2aMiuSWRJCZrot0akr2ZO4jRrNEUA1emflVxteGHfD90zN5F4CscZ9msh3WESoj27PloVl4_x8MhItX8TK/s1600/58950_422024414929_667359929_4936474_4383255_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSwC1_-tnm1T8lpgSwLKsJJVuW2rJLn5oUHS82qcbIX4IlcMS5MO24FKYZYq2aMiuSWRJCZrot0akr2ZO4jRrNEUA1emflVxteGHfD90zN5F4CscZ9msh3WESoj27PloVl4_x8MhItX8TK/s320/58950_422024414929_667359929_4936474_4383255_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531346941607014562" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Bukod sa masarap ang pagkain, maganda at mapresko pa dito...</span><br /><br />The simple entrance of Balinsasayaw conceals the large area and the beautiful landscaping of the place. Our first step: search for a cozy kubo, one that is not too small nor too large for the five of us where we can have our <span style="font-style:italic;">bwelong</span> girly-girly talks and <span style="font-style:italic;">walanghumpay na</span> picture-an. Just like the Balinsasayaw in Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan, this one in Cavite is also comprised of individual <span style="font-style:italic;">bahay kubos </span>(hut made from native materials and nipa or anahaw roofing). <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4as2yA519H2-4IFnSVySTQ-N9unlEJhi9CbvheFPLgve5u1xbShqhK7qtm87IHn-jB-EoheZ4U8DKu_gdW-E8TZo-IHdgcQzensK_sru7EzHZSc-JKxVysyGy6Ukv1HrFW4BUIfgDBY9r/s1600/5572_98337949926_799474926_1801474_6125459_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4as2yA519H2-4IFnSVySTQ-N9unlEJhi9CbvheFPLgve5u1xbShqhK7qtm87IHn-jB-EoheZ4U8DKu_gdW-E8TZo-IHdgcQzensK_sru7EzHZSc-JKxVysyGy6Ukv1HrFW4BUIfgDBY9r/s320/5572_98337949926_799474926_1801474_6125459_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531503368744492978" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Balinsasayaw, Puerte Prinsesa way back in '07</span><br /><br />What is good in the latter, however, is that the <span style="font-style:italic;">kubos</span> have screen doors and windows covered in screen to keep pesky mosquitoes and flies from ruining the guests' dining experience, and of course, for sanitation and health purposes, too.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ta8-cb8bDvl4eehi65dz4zTi6nBG0n-qDTz3wRXAZsDYHMvTG3bHzsu7y-hZUUUN7NhusOVtCtX9QL5OsgneigLCjs87_yyERqJ84GdeggCWkYNAp5axC2WyL9JMS1Oso9jd3ShCkvrq/s1600/58544_422022739929_667359929_4936440_3626232_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ta8-cb8bDvl4eehi65dz4zTi6nBG0n-qDTz3wRXAZsDYHMvTG3bHzsu7y-hZUUUN7NhusOVtCtX9QL5OsgneigLCjs87_yyERqJ84GdeggCWkYNAp5axC2WyL9JMS1Oso9jd3ShCkvrq/s320/58544_422022739929_667359929_4936440_3626232_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531362601143745330" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Getting comfy at "our" bahay-kubo</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqiXirAuLd61_ywn4_1NFsqlwFV5SHBFbCsSRzuArxSp8hhRNa9gRLO0T55VAcT99b6XJozMVLf8p5njjgT-BLqw9DS3hT2g2mIlglwuAuYPIn9kLpXawiTQBwsD9U0CTEvjDYxVLMGaY/s1600/DSCF0151.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqiXirAuLd61_ywn4_1NFsqlwFV5SHBFbCsSRzuArxSp8hhRNa9gRLO0T55VAcT99b6XJozMVLf8p5njjgT-BLqw9DS3hT2g2mIlglwuAuYPIn9kLpXawiTQBwsD9U0CTEvjDYxVLMGaY/s320/DSCF0151.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531344322023245730" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The doors have screens...posing muna si Ms.G</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSpn7tmGgeT16WtDb4jiZ-pQtusmYYFiNBJtMRWfXXSEr2ee5OBO0TUUZ82gQccTndEmTAPUn4e6EscKk-RTh4QtmhsbDp-mSSVEMYFgiYhRBUKrF_HL5EteYSi74vrytEaaLXmzXmQs3G/s1600/DSCF0149.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSpn7tmGgeT16WtDb4jiZ-pQtusmYYFiNBJtMRWfXXSEr2ee5OBO0TUUZ82gQccTndEmTAPUn4e6EscKk-RTh4QtmhsbDp-mSSVEMYFgiYhRBUKrF_HL5EteYSi74vrytEaaLXmzXmQs3G/s320/DSCF0149.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531344315427185554" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">On the way to our bahay-kubo</span><br /><br />Our second step is to have our pictures taken of course! :) Anyways, picture-taking aside, we scoured the menu for our orders and in no time, came to agree on our final choice of Platter 2 (PHP 1495.00) and Patatim (PHP300+). <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGc4xhPrPHKEjE5nEZ_DdknrEHfRmsWOdzvzkHi-66RxPQkHtpsFur9dUdMG97giDvGomYPukiwuKvzlBsLb2jb9fOjzR75reU6fXiz1OXq5OUX4YYidqwPnJZ93VVPDHIAtZinSAabIR/s1600/46737_431607089799_842354799_4725579_6339195_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGc4xhPrPHKEjE5nEZ_DdknrEHfRmsWOdzvzkHi-66RxPQkHtpsFur9dUdMG97giDvGomYPukiwuKvzlBsLb2jb9fOjzR75reU6fXiz1OXq5OUX4YYidqwPnJZ93VVPDHIAtZinSAabIR/s320/46737_431607089799_842354799_4725579_6339195_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531352122402546418" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Platter No. 2 -- Perfect for our hearty appetite</span><br /><br />Platter 2 is good for six persons and is composed of the following: cream of mushroom soup, ensaladang talong, grilled squid, chicken bbq, garlic shrimp, grilled tuna belly, 6 scoops of plain rice and a plate of mixed fruits. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCEVCemoWwJn7lqRA83dIjPqI6wk9BLa5zBXAUSnLmdgUb2EdIRdAszo39UVKjmeLA_vLkKn6-q5ly4GBdYiG_nGwZpHMuCYrVYR0kCRPvAc8Z54AlWzWAEWsW6VlBq2f3r6t4dcXdVNBW/s1600/46858_422019964929_667359929_4936347_7913439_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCEVCemoWwJn7lqRA83dIjPqI6wk9BLa5zBXAUSnLmdgUb2EdIRdAszo39UVKjmeLA_vLkKn6-q5ly4GBdYiG_nGwZpHMuCYrVYR0kCRPvAc8Z54AlWzWAEWsW6VlBq2f3r6t4dcXdVNBW/s320/46858_422019964929_667359929_4936347_7913439_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531346931498435186" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Now there's chicken, squid, tuna belly, shrimps and eggplant</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzyI1NuIm22fGEB1PD5llBaB5F8-2rM7V6wkqtd92AGWpdN-tQ1BD31-etJB00Jr1frVz_BUZuZscc1doHqUl9GFpBnCx0DqZAxGrtKB8hQJtiwzI9Ct8lQ-1OVoEGVZeX5kKkiRhT3_0/s1600/48063_422022819929_667359929_4936442_4251125_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzyI1NuIm22fGEB1PD5llBaB5F8-2rM7V6wkqtd92AGWpdN-tQ1BD31-etJB00Jr1frVz_BUZuZscc1doHqUl9GFpBnCx0DqZAxGrtKB8hQJtiwzI9Ct8lQ-1OVoEGVZeX5kKkiRhT3_0/s320/48063_422022819929_667359929_4936442_4251125_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531344336240822162" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Patatim!</span><br /><br />Needless to say, the platter was more than enough for us five of us. We indulged our appetites and dived in with gusto! The grilled sea foods and meat were tasty, especially when dipped in <span style="font-style:italic;">toyo-mansi-sili sawsawan</span>. Also, the <span style="font-style:italic;">patatim</span> was so delectable. I was literally speechless, choosing instead to simply enjoy the crunchy <span style="font-style:italic;">pata</span> (pig's legs) covered generously in delicious sauce. The patatim's sauce tasted like that of chopseuy, only more delicious, and there are also chopseuy vegetables in it. Foods are served hot and with accompanying condiments of calamansi, soy sauce and siling labuyo, among others.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFhzFxMN7M-IrI3sxGVTcso-bkyeyflKr7WuzDNUzwjyOQsAGFclHSYwlppEBdIRGUpfMnuKxwm62p1MHWrFqIPV7YI5K0C9F7xOPKC31PbpSPCAc97lbDkc5NjeCjC-aW20yGaKt6WrE/s1600/DSCF0154.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFhzFxMN7M-IrI3sxGVTcso-bkyeyflKr7WuzDNUzwjyOQsAGFclHSYwlppEBdIRGUpfMnuKxwm62p1MHWrFqIPV7YI5K0C9F7xOPKC31PbpSPCAc97lbDkc5NjeCjC-aW20yGaKt6WrE/s320/DSCF0154.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531344328382389474" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">At least nagawa pang magpapicture bago kumain hehe</span><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObcVGcuLLh0M5NnBMhWJqxK-Drj2VmaEnpMsrzASeWJvbClH7DVuabcM2IPTNNr_h-YcKmRCOg7A1_fuhjDxDpo3lTofkQOmULKW4Ci08GllZmicMgWzBZqJKM8R0v-U89cFHBkI5qFVR/s1600/58328_422019809929_667359929_4936344_4487892_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObcVGcuLLh0M5NnBMhWJqxK-Drj2VmaEnpMsrzASeWJvbClH7DVuabcM2IPTNNr_h-YcKmRCOg7A1_fuhjDxDpo3lTofkQOmULKW4Ci08GllZmicMgWzBZqJKM8R0v-U89cFHBkI5qFVR/s320/58328_422019809929_667359929_4936344_4487892_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531346942473820626" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ms.E,Ms.K,Ms.R & Ms.G, with their yummy drinks</span><br /><br />Reo and Grace ordered the same special drink, the name of which I forgot but it's so delicious as it has icecream in it...I ordered some kind of a frizzy/flavored soda drink, the taste was just OK. Whereas Kresta and Eden--two like-minded people even in their choice of drinks--ordered sago-gulaman. The drinks cost around PHP65 to PHP80+ each.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Busog Na. Now What? Picture Naman.</span><br />After our scrumptious meal during which our stomachs were filled to their brim, we decided to enjoy the view some more and take pictures.This is what happens when each of us brings her own camera! :)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32Dlx_29Kwag2vUqsQCrElKuKGN3Yz6_K9G-11ivzR30YesSUEVHwRGwDJnD-BPYLRlBGMX3xZ9ds4Tyc_vvpb6X66pimImuyMuPsPTzvtJDyjKTJ0grzmr2DfIcm0ff38pxYSEK2Sjgi/s1600/DSCF0157.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32Dlx_29Kwag2vUqsQCrElKuKGN3Yz6_K9G-11ivzR30YesSUEVHwRGwDJnD-BPYLRlBGMX3xZ9ds4Tyc_vvpb6X66pimImuyMuPsPTzvtJDyjKTJ0grzmr2DfIcm0ff38pxYSEK2Sjgi/s320/DSCF0157.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531342058489153698" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHrS2pER6UFBIqqu-M0hmPMQvX-t184xN3Js-8ie3WkyqfhTX1rcOcCz3aaCRpvh9PEeMNq7XRTCxA52NIemMGZru3WXg50ssm97X-vY90wPX4cSxOFNPAYtfzHR65WFbMWTvpHHG9G7UE/s1600/DSCF0158.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHrS2pER6UFBIqqu-M0hmPMQvX-t184xN3Js-8ie3WkyqfhTX1rcOcCz3aaCRpvh9PEeMNq7XRTCxA52NIemMGZru3WXg50ssm97X-vY90wPX4cSxOFNPAYtfzHR65WFbMWTvpHHG9G7UE/s320/DSCF0158.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531342060180066802" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ms. R (top) and Ms. G, striking a pose! Did I already say that we're picture addicts? :)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2kpSImROrUqc10D-YxTq1X4ilDFfFE0dcIn4fSaxTpXpRZc0zAqo2tGFxvULuQHUerw2yzF6A7BtaMBoW4CWxa-K5BzZjTEY_LShQWT5jyoEL3dNgRUNpEcmMivSlXAnOlZ4ljMdMkem4/s1600/DSCF0156.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2kpSImROrUqc10D-YxTq1X4ilDFfFE0dcIn4fSaxTpXpRZc0zAqo2tGFxvULuQHUerw2yzF6A7BtaMBoW4CWxa-K5BzZjTEY_LShQWT5jyoEL3dNgRUNpEcmMivSlXAnOlZ4ljMdMkem4/s320/DSCF0156.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531346944805304034" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Eto pa...</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnbqJS-P_CVdeAJeOFbPuAplafI5GhFXWs_6p6yfoegwrf_kPcbZEWrXe1AnEPSCTfMvjV3-lQtehYkZK1Rf98iHjrRdP942XiXxb7sbBFu6ZiXW-5JXDvHyrdt-mgfcBmHsZbhY86U6d/s1600/48039_431607539799_842354799_4725604_2192609_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnbqJS-P_CVdeAJeOFbPuAplafI5GhFXWs_6p6yfoegwrf_kPcbZEWrXe1AnEPSCTfMvjV3-lQtehYkZK1Rf98iHjrRdP942XiXxb7sbBFu6ZiXW-5JXDvHyrdt-mgfcBmHsZbhY86U6d/s320/48039_431607539799_842354799_4725604_2192609_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531360412467459586" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Eto pa...</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYwe1PJPZt8e7Q2zGm1cvdT544I4Fk4lER1mJzK4lOuyiDfssOi4tY9ZkmdIif1mZZCU8QKvYB_jo0YiorGcdZqS_h8H9tRB13TUZqu0bjClnXCaOT-TG0iTPvR_uq0190XrOrbagc53xN/s1600/47852_432996454799_842354799_4758179_1082566_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYwe1PJPZt8e7Q2zGm1cvdT544I4Fk4lER1mJzK4lOuyiDfssOi4tY9ZkmdIif1mZZCU8QKvYB_jo0YiorGcdZqS_h8H9tRB13TUZqu0bjClnXCaOT-TG0iTPvR_uq0190XrOrbagc53xN/s320/47852_432996454799_842354799_4758179_1082566_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531350625132712274" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">At ayan pa! So you believe me now? :)</span><br /><br />I guess one flaw, albeit a minor one, of Balinsasayaw is its rather rudimentary toilette. Maybe it's for added "native" effect, but at least there should be a decent flush. Service by the personnel/staff was just average. This is quite understandable, I guess, because it kinda takes time to catch a waiter's attention since waiters are outside the kubo while guests are inside. At least waiters are willing to indulge the request of guests to have their pictures taken several times :)<br /><br />Anyways, just before we left, we decided to check out some of the items at the souvenir shop near the exit. Eds ended up buying a bracelet, which she proudly flaunted in all her succeeding pictures hehe...And before we left, our minds were also pretty much made up that our next stop will be at the <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/10/bag-of-beans-something-good-is-brewing.html">Bag of Beans</a> for a taste of marvelous coffee! :) So please check out my <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/10/bag-of-beans-something-good-is-brewing.html">next post</a>.Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-82269289874402284012010-10-18T15:37:00.000+08:002010-10-26T23:40:57.143+08:00Bagasbas Beach-- Relax, Swim & Surf<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBYWSzL93cZTDPLTEHtQntVhxcKm7ZrFQ9AWhg7t9Os-cTsNVQUKPxW_rb_1_30IsjEa2qhb4csUJzJg0e1i6TIwezQKldS4L8VfYmG0_iBftW_ibTSel6KWZ7q3TjNzsPTD1xBXWYXGde/s1600/DSC-0899.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBYWSzL93cZTDPLTEHtQntVhxcKm7ZrFQ9AWhg7t9Os-cTsNVQUKPxW_rb_1_30IsjEa2qhb4csUJzJg0e1i6TIwezQKldS4L8VfYmG0_iBftW_ibTSel6KWZ7q3TjNzsPTD1xBXWYXGde/s320/DSC-0899.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529310884307029074" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Afternoon in Bagasbas Beach--Photos courtesy of Cheekay T.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Bagasbas Beach</span> is a popular hang-out destination in Daet, Camarines Norte. Locals flock to Bagasbas to swim, surf,skim surf, play volleyball, or simply, to relax and let time pass by while enjoying the seaside ambiance. Many visitors can't resist to drop-by at this place also. Of late, however, Bagasbas started to become famous in the surfing scene. The beach faces the Pacific Ocean, which explains for its powerful waves and swells ideal for surfing. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXKpw5xgMc2uWz-61ERnW01zCgCqAR-2PIKMN-nQk1yld-PnVpMWeKpnrxyEi916ndaMhqAjJDhCQeWM7ulyoRtl5jW70bbz5Ghe4mKi_TYvI1-ngyf096I6m7UCOosDey9gM1SKPuw15/s1600/DSC-0865.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXKpw5xgMc2uWz-61ERnW01zCgCqAR-2PIKMN-nQk1yld-PnVpMWeKpnrxyEi916ndaMhqAjJDhCQeWM7ulyoRtl5jW70bbz5Ghe4mKi_TYvI1-ngyf096I6m7UCOosDey9gM1SKPuw15/s320/DSC-0865.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529309157680261970" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGWAffJc5tdos7ikrHg8pdGXFjOdZO4HLS4W38mJ5S6ffIaJsapUslzDFz6V0tty_w1IDglExrzwXc8CKY-ND8zULCeUDdsVYXdFsE_W3537I0abLkODGGxkxjkfon2k6VUskjtsY5tdk/s1600/DSC-0860.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGWAffJc5tdos7ikrHg8pdGXFjOdZO4HLS4W38mJ5S6ffIaJsapUslzDFz6V0tty_w1IDglExrzwXc8CKY-ND8zULCeUDdsVYXdFsE_W3537I0abLkODGGxkxjkfon2k6VUskjtsY5tdk/s320/DSC-0860.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529329709537431874" /></a><br /><br />Swells can range between 3 to 6 feet, but can go as high as 8 feet on certain days. I reckon it's good for beginners, although we've seen seemingly experienced surfers enjoying the waves too. I've learned that Bagasbas waves are of the beach-break type with short to normal length. I'm not exactly a surfer and am yet to give it a try hehe, so for more surfing info about Bagasbas, just please check out this website I discovvered: <a href="http://www.wannasurf.com/spot/Asia/Philippines/Luzon/bagasbas_beach/">wannaSurf</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh940GRVQB1HsKUbqRs9FqHOlSUKSIl8btHaivAtgZNIAqc-fwocnjzF2OfvguEl2WwsSSpWt8Xws0V9jpZyz61tWbpHcWJ-x4gUYD2jWmBtIPH1qHYe4R2mCkTi_MIY1oezphBNn4QT7zq/s1600/DSC-0827.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh940GRVQB1HsKUbqRs9FqHOlSUKSIl8btHaivAtgZNIAqc-fwocnjzF2OfvguEl2WwsSSpWt8Xws0V9jpZyz61tWbpHcWJ-x4gUYD2jWmBtIPH1qHYe4R2mCkTi_MIY1oezphBNn4QT7zq/s320/DSC-0827.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529310056226023394" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNeRlliPN6vbzi1cbSnlssncg5D5UqjeoLUsQVYx_QubsYL6evwkEcL2WHqGRqQUQtfTjsJlHKecWeQAz6_GsFKyBqkA2zr6Ml0ObCAx6iW0xt15Al5fphZehTdbucfQQ1NPq3X0Z5uclP/s1600/DSC-0882.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNeRlliPN6vbzi1cbSnlssncg5D5UqjeoLUsQVYx_QubsYL6evwkEcL2WHqGRqQUQtfTjsJlHKecWeQAz6_GsFKyBqkA2zr6Ml0ObCAx6iW0xt15Al5fphZehTdbucfQQ1NPq3X0Z5uclP/s320/DSC-0882.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529310881484232386" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib134UUH2KkfkQyYW1br9gZlco43kcummhBHuk_e4GfWFnLdtpPp4vRGVmgb7MznZ-hErU431U5fIB1xtds07RAGFbtd4oGjBEkXcRyiJRTa5X67ABice2w1otot3E3Q4fLAS6YP0qZ8j1/s1600/DSC-0862.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib134UUH2KkfkQyYW1br9gZlco43kcummhBHuk_e4GfWFnLdtpPp4vRGVmgb7MznZ-hErU431U5fIB1xtds07RAGFbtd4oGjBEkXcRyiJRTa5X67ABice2w1otot3E3Q4fLAS6YP0qZ8j1/s320/DSC-0862.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529310055013781794" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Beginners and professional surfers are welcome at Bagasbas (even non-surfers of course!)</span><br /><br />Bagasbas has a long shoreline perfect for that family and barkada afternoon hang-outs, as well as morning or afternoon beach jogging. Another good thing about it is its accessibility, being just one tricycle ride away from Daet centro. The place is also cheap. There are no entrance fees. Rental of surfboards is just Php 200.00 per hour and surfing lesson is also Php 200.00 per hour.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFUoufbmb94UaUaNrq2S-8oBFQATnzfliFscrsGQIX-7xhvAtCk08-SEdyetV1dIdFugBadrg50LzpCHBBg-gvzuDxsk90JJGuoGd24LLB07flsFJV7b1aQ-6IXied_2ePmmwnChxHpzru/s1600/DSC-0817.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFUoufbmb94UaUaNrq2S-8oBFQATnzfliFscrsGQIX-7xhvAtCk08-SEdyetV1dIdFugBadrg50LzpCHBBg-gvzuDxsk90JJGuoGd24LLB07flsFJV7b1aQ-6IXied_2ePmmwnChxHpzru/s320/DSC-0817.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529310875894936370" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">These kids--young surfers--are undaunted by the strong waves...</span><br /><br />I remember Bagasbas way back from my childhood. Papa is from Vinzons, Camarines Norte and every time our family gathers for a reunion circa 1990s, my cousins and I were always looking forward to a post-Christmas day excursion at Bagasbas. That was a long time ago though, and I haven't been to Bagasbas for years. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvYJnxa8_8b3iDYO2Ivq6ESvKnDqQxCir7BU3IT7ATH8XXCAUbzi4tjE2YXSqW8QuD0Gs5-oPtFxv2Kk93x7eMwI6U7ffCqin3E059edSj2nejDoa87LArgvl5Akj8iBZOj2RG_nUobCha/s1600/DSC-0893.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvYJnxa8_8b3iDYO2Ivq6ESvKnDqQxCir7BU3IT7ATH8XXCAUbzi4tjE2YXSqW8QuD0Gs5-oPtFxv2Kk93x7eMwI6U7ffCqin3E059edSj2nejDoa87LArgvl5Akj8iBZOj2RG_nUobCha/s320/DSC-0893.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529310882007770098" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Cheekay, byahera, and Von</span><br /><br />Hence thanks to my über wonderful friends and lakwatsa buddies--<span style="font-weight:bold;">Cheekay</span> and <span style="font-weight:bold;">Von</span>--for coming up with the idea of a road trip. Actually, it was a practice driving session for Cheekay, with Von as the driving coach. The plan was for Cheekay to drive from Naga City to Daet--Bagasbas being the highlight of the trip--and then back to Naga (Naga-Daet-Bagasbas-Naga). And of course, thanks to my own persistence to be their passenger even if I really don't have any role in said driving lesson except to be my usual crazy self :) <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWuv2YuPzcGQ2ykhCDrGrgYrhlv8I8gTgy7sbmmt1-dsknlAzI27I-GAwa71Ct7z7ysD3YmxdXsOroIs9Db0DucJg88TLQ_9krLOcevEad0tPZZaXWzgXV8CDStRWLBVb0hre1hnV6-c-G/s1600/DSC-0814.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWuv2YuPzcGQ2ykhCDrGrgYrhlv8I8gTgy7sbmmt1-dsknlAzI27I-GAwa71Ct7z7ysD3YmxdXsOroIs9Db0DucJg88TLQ_9krLOcevEad0tPZZaXWzgXV8CDStRWLBVb0hre1hnV6-c-G/s320/DSC-0814.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529309171582479026" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The author with her friend, Cheekay</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidano7D3NUJdFsgfpx_Z5D5a0douT4D83bxWWNo6YT7oeZxi9-5-YOOiIOWPau26PawRoYLLaBECqI5FN82rgi-TpeH46xQcKwo4Nfuk_WL-OkSSnMEu4xJkcuvVfXIfpBtsuK1eKjEPVQ/s1600/DSC-0813.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidano7D3NUJdFsgfpx_Z5D5a0douT4D83bxWWNo6YT7oeZxi9-5-YOOiIOWPau26PawRoYLLaBECqI5FN82rgi-TpeH46xQcKwo4Nfuk_WL-OkSSnMEu4xJkcuvVfXIfpBtsuK1eKjEPVQ/s320/DSC-0813.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529309168937747298" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Von and Cheekay</span><br /><br />We met at around 11AM, ate a delicious lunch at Cheekay's house in Naga City and proceeded with the trip at around 1PM. After one and a half hours of Cheekay asking questions about driving, of me chattering about anything I can think of, and of Von constantly checking, guiding and teaching Cheekay about defensive driving, we're finally in Bagasbas--all in one piece, thank God. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4p6gL5nYnoOdzh1imBu3AQ5QqDXn9t2otlajcCsyAhusMhEsWIdb-XeKFUQ2NbuX4ymmPPTJscPdgSmVw10bTRnQ2YLZV7_6YWxh9xe-fOkY-yy_DlCTMrYVX05iYLdCmxXOD0P1UHzHO/s1600/DSC-0888.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4p6gL5nYnoOdzh1imBu3AQ5QqDXn9t2otlajcCsyAhusMhEsWIdb-XeKFUQ2NbuX4ymmPPTJscPdgSmVw10bTRnQ2YLZV7_6YWxh9xe-fOkY-yy_DlCTMrYVX05iYLdCmxXOD0P1UHzHO/s320/DSC-0888.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529329715700497234" /></a><br /><br />Yehey! I love the view, I super love the beach, I love, love,love...I felt so alive and happy again. Cheekay took out her camera and started clicking :) Von, after surveying the scene, started to wade across the water toward the deeper part where the waves are bigger and more exciting...and I...was just looking on with envy because I didn't bring a change of clothes.Darn!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTf7z2oX7heUs5TsMZKkGGjbvojMBm8yI4NJGjcGYA8dFeUwS8VePMKhC8MGdhitQ9Onuom1V_NKwUXy02UZzjbYbeIABZt_E9_k8_T_3zHSD5BjXeSbY7Pf1KuSCsXsaVToMss-Ydch7q/s1600/DSC-0810.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 229px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTf7z2oX7heUs5TsMZKkGGjbvojMBm8yI4NJGjcGYA8dFeUwS8VePMKhC8MGdhitQ9Onuom1V_NKwUXy02UZzjbYbeIABZt_E9_k8_T_3zHSD5BjXeSbY7Pf1KuSCsXsaVToMss-Ydch7q/s320/DSC-0810.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529309181183305218" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj77usafztNxN07Rk9mNurc71dAOVCyjHqIWfeZ2ZPYF0TaRHrGfG0wTNp1rDxcC8rqbkw6xwpabXsNBZH8uZpeCXyAqzqF81r6PxGWQig0rCT7dQIt8LSCZusMdwF5FXKVjHO8aCDmaJqM/s1600/DSC-0820.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj77usafztNxN07Rk9mNurc71dAOVCyjHqIWfeZ2ZPYF0TaRHrGfG0wTNp1rDxcC8rqbkw6xwpabXsNBZH8uZpeCXyAqzqF81r6PxGWQig0rCT7dQIt8LSCZusMdwF5FXKVjHO8aCDmaJqM/s320/DSC-0820.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529309178588711042" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWi1Plfbvs-ykjTcd9E5H5okaAmuSg-IOn23B76oONYSXBR7TTN2k65L9xh_oKhQMvBojG0jeF95So_ZozLNT7To_l0ACfVetjM4U_izWFkdbeXx-q74d4kGZ7l7ydfwFgd9jaGq5o36ZI/s1600/DSC-0822.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWi1Plfbvs-ykjTcd9E5H5okaAmuSg-IOn23B76oONYSXBR7TTN2k65L9xh_oKhQMvBojG0jeF95So_ZozLNT7To_l0ACfVetjM4U_izWFkdbeXx-q74d4kGZ7l7ydfwFgd9jaGq5o36ZI/s320/DSC-0822.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529329707983498786" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Naiingit na kay Von...i want to swim too!</span><br /><br />My original plan was only to stroll around, appreciate the view and perhaps, contemplate(?!). But I can barely contain my envy--Von was already valiantly meeting the waves straight on--so I decided to borrow his extra clothes neatly folded inside a paperbag at the backseat. Bwahaha. And because of that, we both ended up going home wet and cold hehe. Cheekay opted to skip swimming (due to some personal reasons) and just stayed by the beach, honing her shooting skills :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpldVpDMX4Tr0Iket-Ft2Qr5kah1LKUYNThixuDgalarmpiUtAeJ3bgSYgk7nO4rOxzgVJ8AcAfkazx5WWD6TC8cX-DpJuFFkQTI9r2YbdJm0lUBWW2R2qLoRnov7pxG3lJI9QikLxwWpE/s1600/DSC-0877.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpldVpDMX4Tr0Iket-Ft2Qr5kah1LKUYNThixuDgalarmpiUtAeJ3bgSYgk7nO4rOxzgVJ8AcAfkazx5WWD6TC8cX-DpJuFFkQTI9r2YbdJm0lUBWW2R2qLoRnov7pxG3lJI9QikLxwWpE/s320/DSC-0877.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529312719854460546" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Borrowed Von's spare clothes hehe...</span><br /><br />As soon as I got myself into the water...it's swimming time! I'd like to think that we were body surfing, but I guess we still have to practice more on that.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyG0wJJ_5YW96J_Sdk0QCp4p79JMsuBhRS3nFAhm9P6LEag3vcnvXSmlsJNK4UUL1MkePUmoh8Y-F_kIGOqnY8bC3XRnRP39k-3icTF5iCpg_aynv6aOOKTmBxtErlr3o7u3AFyoJjfVix/s1600/DSC-0867.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyG0wJJ_5YW96J_Sdk0QCp4p79JMsuBhRS3nFAhm9P6LEag3vcnvXSmlsJNK4UUL1MkePUmoh8Y-F_kIGOqnY8bC3XRnRP39k-3icTF5iCpg_aynv6aOOKTmBxtErlr3o7u3AFyoJjfVix/s320/DSC-0867.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529310059388769362" /></a><br /></span><span style="font-style:italic;">We're not daunted by these waves too...bring it on!</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlp2LuUmjyE8xIxpPK-V7K5vrbIDUTPYJixtAVMwaq-Zi1yL7L7I3AKFczMLr4qi0gfzMb30tNs_es3nkyEpkddoXRkPskDxECAkh1QazY0ct3h3hHoojd-irfO2Btgg-6nIP4TW4UDFq/s1600/DSC-0878.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlp2LuUmjyE8xIxpPK-V7K5vrbIDUTPYJixtAVMwaq-Zi1yL7L7I3AKFczMLr4qi0gfzMb30tNs_es3nkyEpkddoXRkPskDxECAkh1QazY0ct3h3hHoojd-irfO2Btgg-6nIP4TW4UDFq/s320/DSC-0878.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529310069922597026" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3j7SQz2edE79iPrIlAVJAU9Egeb60yeUuBqja2MxAfxZhu-9hVoqMtDAHzsOe1J0aWvtFVeOYG6xmuFxBI4krDd8UUjBvQUSciyI8W5OLXZuZzuBX9z8ELUws7W762Pjx4J7Epc_X8Ah/s1600/DSC-0884.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3j7SQz2edE79iPrIlAVJAU9Egeb60yeUuBqja2MxAfxZhu-9hVoqMtDAHzsOe1J0aWvtFVeOYG6xmuFxBI4krDd8UUjBvQUSciyI8W5OLXZuZzuBX9z8ELUws7W762Pjx4J7Epc_X8Ah/s320/DSC-0884.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529310069973782418" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Wweeeee...jump!</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjEpmCK_5I4HP7gyG1WRU4MqgydI4ERe8lPWbofOLgkVE6Zqd_fwcS-4Dtw_CmDA0RbkWh06pOOd-EABw5JjOALFtKW9GI394CFvrmC5bJriDcqwpEgZog9LK75NhxG0NPDnghmK-UfIw/s1600/DSC-0866.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjEpmCK_5I4HP7gyG1WRU4MqgydI4ERe8lPWbofOLgkVE6Zqd_fwcS-4Dtw_CmDA0RbkWh06pOOd-EABw5JjOALFtKW9GI394CFvrmC5bJriDcqwpEgZog9LK75NhxG0NPDnghmK-UfIw/s320/DSC-0866.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529338136394703442" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Never thought that this could be so addictive!</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_EjN64dTIvsnINEh6FTpo6gKa7pPbpbSWz0oYjtPAgCZLuHcVTjz8ypxJjDkdXvkZ5CGhgcU3l4kDHZNKDBZtHj229JN9UOKpRzhwpLRxTQpTgqmFsP41AvBl_jpQ6p3bcdkHrL9sTGv/s1600/DSC-0881.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_EjN64dTIvsnINEh6FTpo6gKa7pPbpbSWz0oYjtPAgCZLuHcVTjz8ypxJjDkdXvkZ5CGhgcU3l4kDHZNKDBZtHj229JN9UOKpRzhwpLRxTQpTgqmFsP41AvBl_jpQ6p3bcdkHrL9sTGv/s320/DSC-0881.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529338133101432626" /></a><br /><br /><br />More than an hour in the water and I think I finally satisfied my beach and waves craving. I can feel a slight tinge of sunburn in my skin. We decided to rinse at an <span style="font-style:italic;">old iskul</span> water pump (poso) just near the beach, which is open for public use free of charge. Von and I took turns pumping the water pump as the other takes a bath. So childishly fun! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvT4S0zSYts9GVMhQeGiLFB-Qjibeyi5CcRnLIunpjXsJ7CHeuSJatuE0zYKpCAO9_0myW35HkzYMAKJ0AcqW27syOf2RTgT3gmMwkzUBxyhvuClgla1uDS27DYtxDdKUzYAN6lQHNIxk/s1600/DSC-0894.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvT4S0zSYts9GVMhQeGiLFB-Qjibeyi5CcRnLIunpjXsJ7CHeuSJatuE0zYKpCAO9_0myW35HkzYMAKJ0AcqW27syOf2RTgT3gmMwkzUBxyhvuClgla1uDS27DYtxDdKUzYAN6lQHNIxk/s320/DSC-0894.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529310892127124034" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Cheekay took these pictures (traydor hehe)</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNLY9qbg8go7smGK1vIp60ysE9PFuxKyhkce2D4LBK8fp2xwI-mcTJZ1z2FkL47VGBa6uG2AB71rhyphenhyphenod3N0ca7Q_fHWT6iI6cw1P3iBlVk_IdPyh-p5kEMDvMytj2God0a7iun6iDNAURA/s1600/DSC-0900.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNLY9qbg8go7smGK1vIp60ysE9PFuxKyhkce2D4LBK8fp2xwI-mcTJZ1z2FkL47VGBa6uG2AB71rhyphenhyphenod3N0ca7Q_fHWT6iI6cw1P3iBlVk_IdPyh-p5kEMDvMytj2God0a7iun6iDNAURA/s320/DSC-0900.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529312701160637298" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiudlRKThgKhzgtVqfk71anxhxJxwn0tIF503lir9it1dRtgVdNPJvs_PLqvIRSxJ76SGJ4uyoCNKwD54dfscgIyXK7mKRfQNjBe_XBKnajz8dRx8hNwXQIXa_cNsHANNuI8b5QgeOUbzM/s1600/DSC-0901.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiudlRKThgKhzgtVqfk71anxhxJxwn0tIF503lir9it1dRtgVdNPJvs_PLqvIRSxJ76SGJ4uyoCNKwD54dfscgIyXK7mKRfQNjBe_XBKnajz8dRx8hNwXQIXa_cNsHANNuI8b5QgeOUbzM/s320/DSC-0901.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529312710054436162" /></a><br /><br />Anyways, after all the excitement and wave craziness, we decided to eat at the nearby Kusina ni Angel, as per Von' recommendation. We ate scrumptious mixed seafood dishes. One is a platter of lightly-breaded fried sea foods (fish fillet, tahong, hipon,clams, etc.) and the other is a soup-y dish of the same ingredients. Both dishes were delicious; in fact, so yummy that I forgot to take a picture of them :). Prices were affordable also, at less than PHP 200.00 for each dish and more than enough for three, hungry, <span style="font-style:italic;">matakaw</span> diners.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJNtMH4yR1rTwSHbU3xmr-z1lSnkREj4gbOwjvx1lfE-JQUvXNkB28ABkJNDBEV4GI2FmNiemFYL4b59uX1gHeaaL8bP1uCvcTyAm9knIXvUsLYsjVxW7WiBripkwxyCyPQD0kQ62Iyr1/s1600/DSC-0902.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJNtMH4yR1rTwSHbU3xmr-z1lSnkREj4gbOwjvx1lfE-JQUvXNkB28ABkJNDBEV4GI2FmNiemFYL4b59uX1gHeaaL8bP1uCvcTyAm9knIXvUsLYsjVxW7WiBripkwxyCyPQD0kQ62Iyr1/s320/DSC-0902.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529312713438993666" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Driver and photographer of the day--Cheekay, enjoying her mango shake (PHP40) at Kusina ni Angel.</span><br /><br />After our late afternoon and (did i say second?) lunch, we headed back to Naga City...<span style="font-style:italic;"> baon ang masasayang alaala ng hapon na iyon</span>. yahoo. AND what about the practice driving thing? Surely indeed, Cheekay became a better driver after having braved the twists and turns of the highway to and from CamNorte :) <br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">SOME TRAVEL TIPS</span><br /><br />1) How to reach Bagasbas:for those who would be coming from Manila, take the bus going to Daet, Camarines Norte. There are Superlines and Philtranco aircon and non-aircon/ordinary buses that cater daily and nightly Manila-Daet v.v trips. Fare is around Php 600.00 and travel time, around seven hours. If you're from the South--Naga City, Legazpi City or Sorsogon, for example--you can take the vans going to Daet from the Naga City van terminal, and then from Daet, negotiate with a tricycle to take you to Bagasbas :)<br /><br /><br />2) There are a number of hotels scattered around Daet and neighboring towns, such as Wiltan Hotel, Sampaguita Tourist Inn, Mines Hotel and Hotel Dolor, to name a few.<br />Wiltan Hotel @ Vinzons Ave., Daet 054 721 2252<br />Sampaguita Tourist Inn @ J. Pimentel St., Daet 054 571 2646<br />Hotel Dolor @ Vinzons Ave., Daet 054 721 2167<br />Mines Hotel, Vinzons Ave. Daet<br /><br />3) In addition to Bagasbas beach, there are other beaches and islands in Camarines Norte that have started to gain a reputation among adventurers, travelers and photographers. One such island is the Calaguas Island or Mahabang Buhangin. The same was even featured already in magazines and talk shows :)<br /><br />4) Usual mode of transport around the town is tricycle. Standard fare of Php 7.00 applies for nearby locations, unless you're renting the trike for more lengthy road trip.<br /><br />5) Nightlife -- there's a budding nightlife in Daet, evidenced by the number of bars and nightclubs around. check-out 'the brickyard' near the van terminal. from what i've heard this is the latest gimik hub in daet.<br /><br />6) Daet specialties: pandecilios (bread with pili), tikoy, pili roll, pili tart and pineapple tart are must-try's! My favorite, however, is angko, a small white round steamed kakanin made from <span style="font-style:italic;">malagkit</span> and with peanut-choco center.So yummy!Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-3828898473280378732010-09-17T15:18:00.000+08:002012-07-10T22:59:15.232+08:00A Day in Laoag, Ilocos Norte's Capital and Gateway to World<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ilocos is surely one region that has a lot to offer to tourists. And we (Lhei, Sheila, and moi, byahera) have been on a wonderful race to squeeze every possible must-see's in our hectic three-day vacay...and don't forget, on a <span style="font-style: italic;">tipid</span> budget!
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/08/of-cobbled-stone-streets-calesa-rides.html">Vigan</a> and <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/08/my-pagudpud-adventure-taking-it-easy-on.html">Pagudpud</a> (previous posts) were wonderful. Yet as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. Hence, Laoag, the capital of Ilocos Norte, served as the last leg of our trip before we finally go home. We have several hours to spare before our flight back to Manila that an idle day was ahead of us. After conferring on what to do next, we came up with this narrowed list: Fort Ilocandia, Museo Ilocos Norte and whatever-may-come-later-location.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fort Ilocandia</span>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Fort Ilocandia, our first stop, is outside the city center and is beyond the reach of public transport. Sans personal vehicle, one has to rent a tricycle or a vehicle to go to the place . In our case, we paid our rented tricycle Php 100.00 for a one-way trip to the hotel. We also contracted the same driver to fetch us back after two hours. The ride lasted around fifteen minutes. The hotel, even if out-of-the-way, is really not far away and, as you'll see, was worth the trip.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.fortilocandia.com.ph/">Fort Ilocandia</a> is a five-star hotel that rests on a sprawling 77-hectare area of land and is complete with a range of amenities and facilities, including a shooting and archery range, hot air balloons, all terrain vehicles, banana boat, outdoor massage, hot sand spa and many more. There is a casino at the second floor for the casino aficionados. I'm not quite of a casino person and my companions also seem to be not in the mood, so we just skipped that part.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAc-iEGNEoB5whpF2XeWt7OkTH_glODUh6nhoq5IBjH9TIokq0SRTEOVD6oyYndoCF5WJj06BCxLjqGzJapxOHTJR6Y9afuGzRbQNzkG5LEqCFDuITlowGLCpU8LHjcVWbwt90LTHPUaeA/s1600/DSC00234.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519752680423244626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAc-iEGNEoB5whpF2XeWt7OkTH_glODUh6nhoq5IBjH9TIokq0SRTEOVD6oyYndoCF5WJj06BCxLjqGzJapxOHTJR6Y9afuGzRbQNzkG5LEqCFDuITlowGLCpU8LHjcVWbwt90LTHPUaeA/s400/DSC00234.JPG" style="display: block; height: 240px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" width="400" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU4tKsbEJYOSd6vJ5OFBLGOV5qMWKLjUAogWrK2Mi0biHKbK21araRrqvkPdRa0m-aCxTVA-_mZlxv-3uk8ooPynkrr7QgJ8k6F7wqV3SZmaox5RybhOT3vnjShYYjeCdSrcO9keOS8XNT/s1600/DSC00235.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521198775941026850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU4tKsbEJYOSd6vJ5OFBLGOV5qMWKLjUAogWrK2Mi0biHKbK21araRrqvkPdRa0m-aCxTVA-_mZlxv-3uk8ooPynkrr7QgJ8k6F7wqV3SZmaox5RybhOT3vnjShYYjeCdSrcO9keOS8XNT/s400/DSC00235.JPG" style="display: block; height: 320px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" width="300" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwl2J_pXxLEENUPRLWzlChfOwX1bgRxo0CaB0UQAG6MTsjhtqAcMKCXHPaYo0-x4LZBXbaRC3TBOEWrR6Etm4DeOizR7eYDHQYxV562mW6oP3dItN6IocHA3wOwJeQVcMfEWBUeus_URKi/s1600/1_609783090l.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519752669690210322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwl2J_pXxLEENUPRLWzlChfOwX1bgRxo0CaB0UQAG6MTsjhtqAcMKCXHPaYo0-x4LZBXbaRC3TBOEWrR6Etm4DeOizR7eYDHQYxV562mW6oP3dItN6IocHA3wOwJeQVcMfEWBUeus_URKi/s400/1_609783090l.jpg" style="display: block; height: 320px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; width: 214px;" width="267" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgQpPcPRRqnSEJl8WqIZSGR3VTU9-3QWGkRpzBRjBWQHgkBfBxfoVykq7sZc3EwilzwWs__bEZPFplbjhBcuod0XFSbQ0993FsAvzOydpTOD07K5d5Jhy0VW7cOAfs1O87AtH7TvauPFg/s1600/1_827819765l.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519752670425409762" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgQpPcPRRqnSEJl8WqIZSGR3VTU9-3QWGkRpzBRjBWQHgkBfBxfoVykq7sZc3EwilzwWs__bEZPFplbjhBcuod0XFSbQ0993FsAvzOydpTOD07K5d5Jhy0VW7cOAfs1O87AtH7TvauPFg/s400/1_827819765l.jpg" style="display: block; height: 320px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; width: 214px;" width="267" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We strolled around inside and outside the hotel, enjoying its magnificent interiors as well as the view of its manicured lawns and beautifully landscaped surroundings.By the way, even if we're not in the guest list of the hotel we kinda roamed around freely, save for certain places reserved only to guests...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizP1b521A6SWXnbOxNBITr2wvr5d7v4He6SElsYQsxlmQTd5fbhIoWbsUbgt_go9oiNaP_FEBGwT0A7WDgP-6DZ0w0KmR6JUhtYoqa3qnzsKhY6H8VKst-dIjpi6eqx1MmQ_nsag54nGG9/s1600/DSC00237.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519752686239145522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizP1b521A6SWXnbOxNBITr2wvr5d7v4He6SElsYQsxlmQTd5fbhIoWbsUbgt_go9oiNaP_FEBGwT0A7WDgP-6DZ0w0KmR6JUhtYoqa3qnzsKhY6H8VKst-dIjpi6eqx1MmQ_nsag54nGG9/s320/DSC00237.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Then we came to the part where a fence separates the lawn from the beach. It turned out that the beach is off-limits to visitors not officially checked-in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Maybe it was the effect of heat, mild hunger, or simply the irresistible temptation to have a brief glimpse of a beach nearby--its waves we already hear...that while the guards were not looking we quietly entered an open portion of the fence toward the beach :) Nonetheless, lest we get caught and be labeled as deviants to the detriment of our squeaky-clean criminal records, we also immediately got out. We just surveyed the view and took some pictures.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvnDKQGxz-DlkvC3ao0Gv-Yv1UjmOE_VHs2tzN6wQnlNweAvt3rQCJmb8HEb1KWaNmn91OSONo1vGVYOeLKZFsIu_0_W2rlOCTB7u7J4GSa0JOdyE1QHlPS1ETpnD8l1PuQK_caONabAE/s1600/DSC00236.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519752691034780898" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvnDKQGxz-DlkvC3ao0Gv-Yv1UjmOE_VHs2tzN6wQnlNweAvt3rQCJmb8HEb1KWaNmn91OSONo1vGVYOeLKZFsIu_0_W2rlOCTB7u7J4GSa0JOdyE1QHlPS1ETpnD8l1PuQK_caONabAE/s320/DSC00236.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Fort Ilocandia Resort, with its clean, fine gray sand
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpcJpPtAXOEg_wZdf0tWYktvuDhQtCphsRGsh5WOavPd-mqMH1vG9tV05tAZhcYr5B-Af8cVZ6i3shU6aRBpPoLpDWi3xrWzU0hcLkRKVdpv1fTx6VNkIXkH7Rk5L2s9Rw5BK923hpCWQ6/s1600/1_433361149l.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521253912049322546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpcJpPtAXOEg_wZdf0tWYktvuDhQtCphsRGsh5WOavPd-mqMH1vG9tV05tAZhcYr5B-Af8cVZ6i3shU6aRBpPoLpDWi3xrWzU0hcLkRKVdpv1fTx6VNkIXkH7Rk5L2s9Rw5BK923hpCWQ6/s320/1_433361149l.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">...the trespassers, absorbed in their thoughts :)
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It was past 10 already and we thought to have some snacks first. We bought pastry and cake at the cake/bread shop inside the hotel and ordered our drinks at the Garden Restaurant. Since both the bread shop and the restaurant are in a five-star hotel, the foods and drinks were quite pricey...(so better take a picture of it LOL...)
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGo43_iaOYzKeRby1QOBgtiEMbAkXRc1XDqQRhn2taXUvDinDoTvuKAFjLlqpAYxKbCQLkZYjYnZGNYm322HFP6ad7cInU8r82xoWKtYpw6sEJh4Wn9sTu3EqrnKq4GnM-SwbKpenRh6Uq/s1600/DSC00240.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521201346845593554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGo43_iaOYzKeRby1QOBgtiEMbAkXRc1XDqQRhn2taXUvDinDoTvuKAFjLlqpAYxKbCQLkZYjYnZGNYm322HFP6ad7cInU8r82xoWKtYpw6sEJh4Wn9sTu3EqrnKq4GnM-SwbKpenRh6Uq/s320/DSC00240.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After our morning stroll and snacks, we went back to Laoag City center for our next location,the Ilocos Norte Museum (Museo Ilocos Norte).
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold;">Ilocos Norte Museum</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">From its website, the <a href="http://www.museoilocosnorte.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=19&Itemid=23">Ilocos Norte Museum</a>'s general description is as follows:
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcmSdNgS2xnlYD5WrtbqTLCRvH650AFXEFbcTPxwZz-oUDEbnEHN2Qu2ieOyU2sC3ysTG19TeMN0IJse-zt3BX8eg6yDP1iPDz5AqPgpuZshCm0acXMDlhVeQmZcKA2VhKyG0lRwZYR7u/s1600/DSC00241.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521234954941062818" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcmSdNgS2xnlYD5WrtbqTLCRvH650AFXEFbcTPxwZz-oUDEbnEHN2Qu2ieOyU2sC3ysTG19TeMN0IJse-zt3BX8eg6yDP1iPDz5AqPgpuZshCm0acXMDlhVeQmZcKA2VhKyG0lRwZYR7u/s320/DSC00241.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Gameng, after the Iloko word for treasure, symbolizes the wealth of Ilocos Norte. It showcases the varied ethnicity and multi-faceted cultural heritage of a sturdy, hard working people known for their industry, resourcefulness and loyalty.
</span>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbFfmgwvTN1nxF0EEFZoYdHVgt3Khdr65oL69ojBxeavUYC6JO8fVVPubrdI5jQRijd-GIWZjUHR69Nk3pWWld_jO9i3gzOEiU-X-tgH6FjjJ1M22sD0Lz778fLvMsoB7Ekfh3-KqSY5Se/s1600/DSC00244.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521234984055065138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbFfmgwvTN1nxF0EEFZoYdHVgt3Khdr65oL69ojBxeavUYC6JO8fVVPubrdI5jQRijd-GIWZjUHR69Nk3pWWld_jO9i3gzOEiU-X-tgH6FjjJ1M22sD0Lz778fLvMsoB7Ekfh3-KqSY5Se/s320/DSC00244.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3IXjxyMxvJz6OpjznXYGbXN4LFymXLCwQSEzHsITIR2b4WAw6zZQMRW28G0pM_R4F4er7nseira1xaffhQoD0O6BuU11GG3ZMKu06mjAl4G6LI29ubdM8gWuQYRzXIHFfLKARquwIlqoV/s1600/DSC00243.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521234962901703746" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3IXjxyMxvJz6OpjznXYGbXN4LFymXLCwQSEzHsITIR2b4WAw6zZQMRW28G0pM_R4F4er7nseira1xaffhQoD0O6BuU11GG3ZMKu06mjAl4G6LI29ubdM8gWuQYRzXIHFfLKARquwIlqoV/s320/DSC00243.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">With an affordable entrance fee of Php 20.00, visitors will be introduced to all things related to the history and culture of Ilocos. Inside the museum is an extensive collection of relics showcasing the ways of life of the Ilocano people from the pre-historic and Spanish era times. The same attests to the tenacity of the Ilocanos, as they make the most of their natural resources.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVWuzjTrPUKFvGl2_8PbBvJV7wHRaqLnDLcj1QRmUKQKoWvwjuee0qflt_dF6TIRbIC81PS-5uid91R5lE81nGW18XoL5Ut5I-3c2-ZLaLBW_zAE5P5sYldsBpV159ClWixpR6aJKG2vX/s1600/DSC00242.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521234978513341954" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVWuzjTrPUKFvGl2_8PbBvJV7wHRaqLnDLcj1QRmUKQKoWvwjuee0qflt_dF6TIRbIC81PS-5uid91R5lE81nGW18XoL5Ut5I-3c2-ZLaLBW_zAE5P5sYldsBpV159ClWixpR6aJKG2vX/s320/DSC00242.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9jhKYe84Gs6eulWLkOsUeR54HSsdkBi44Q87dDYRhme9Gzcip560zIK5P6gbJ8poft-FnoN15mRgBiI18MtmIu7LiSP-qz5nrUqDWx_1UhPOqjNOVge0p-5TvlPzlXJrifGMNv0IcS6C/s1600/DSC00246.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521234990245635698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9jhKYe84Gs6eulWLkOsUeR54HSsdkBi44Q87dDYRhme9Gzcip560zIK5P6gbJ8poft-FnoN15mRgBiI18MtmIu7LiSP-qz5nrUqDWx_1UhPOqjNOVge0p-5TvlPzlXJrifGMNv0IcS6C/s320/DSC00246.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Displayed also are the different products and handicrafts traditionally manufactured in the region. In fact, in relation to the region's cigar-making tradition, it is aptly suited that the building that now houses the museum collections is actually a former Tabacalera tabacco warehouse. The building's aged brick facade is, in itself, a scenic view.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The museum also has its souvenir store, although we postponed pasalubong-buying in case we come across cheaper items outside.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxCzntpqNuTm0c5LvHMBRiqSL6WnPBJhdAohVizgfju6c20s2WJaXxwTYGY9644BaiBWj1GX4TvygEZ2GwE-JWRAq3GGxxcrQRu5MdO5CIfBqVjqMvo0RjGProPe4j-8XW-Ryg-WCFnVK/s1600/1_587696871l.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521201344747663314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxCzntpqNuTm0c5LvHMBRiqSL6WnPBJhdAohVizgfju6c20s2WJaXxwTYGY9644BaiBWj1GX4TvygEZ2GwE-JWRAq3GGxxcrQRu5MdO5CIfBqVjqMvo0RjGProPe4j-8XW-Ryg-WCFnVK/s320/1_587696871l.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After the museum visit, we have nowhere else to go and our flight is still a few hours away. We asked the Museum guards if there are any nearby <span style="font-style: italic;">tambayans</span> (hangout place) and they referred us to the <span style="font-style: italic;">DAP-AYAN TI</span>, which actually translates to "tambayan" in Ilocano dialect. We've been there earlier that morning, so we instead decided to walk wherever our feet will take us. And that's what we did--walk, walk and walk around the city until we unexpectedly discovered a McDonald's.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Tired and thirsty, we spent our remaining hours there at McDo Laoag. Lhei and I reviewed our Civil Code codals (for utter lack of other things to do hehe) while Sheila busied herself taking pictures. Came five o'clock and we elected to attend Sunday mass at the nearby St. William Church, which is a look-alike of St.Paul's Cathedral in Vigan City. It was the first and only mass I've attended that is spoken in Ilocano dialect. "It's the thought that counts", I told Lheila--at least we attended mass than not at all even if we did not understand a word of the sermon. After the mass, we headed to the airport for our flight, making sure that we're at least an hour early. We do observe airline flight rules ;) better careful than be left behind.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYnlHtOuDDw3VWcrwI-Dv-vL-CkBHhyphenhyphen5LQKgMZVI-FZEy8OcX7C-ifG0MPKJX68bShR98CplZ-URIVsx1w3lKnIVWvzhdJgwi1P5WUWgTaDWS8JwPlnCBKSkS3uOlwdWEt4VJkJuZuVDLO/s1600/DSC00247.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521253916146369058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYnlHtOuDDw3VWcrwI-Dv-vL-CkBHhyphenhyphen5LQKgMZVI-FZEy8OcX7C-ifG0MPKJX68bShR98CplZ-URIVsx1w3lKnIVWvzhdJgwi1P5WUWgTaDWS8JwPlnCBKSkS3uOlwdWEt4VJkJuZuVDLO/s320/DSC00247.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">...the end of vacay, back to normalcy...
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">That ends our whirlwind, <span style="font-style: italic;">lagare</span> Ilocandia trip. I got to hang-out with two of the nicest people and tour one of the regions I've been longing to go to ever since. Hopefully when I go back to the Ilocos region, I will not only relive the experience but also reach the other places we've failed to visit. Overall, my trip was <span style="font-style: italic;">sulit</span> and fun.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Some Pointers on How to Reach Laoag City:
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Those who would travel to Laoag may choose between 1) land and 2) air transportation. As per my previous posts, there are a number of bus lines that have daily and nightly trips from Manila to Laoag and vice versa, such as Farinas, Florida Bus, Partas, Viron, Philippine Rabbit and Dominion Bus Lines.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Bus fare could range from P600 to P800.Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines are the two airlines that cater weekly Manila-Laoag flights. Travel by land takes around 10 hrs, whereas by plane around 1 hr.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">During promo periods, the difference in fare between these two is quite minimal, and if you're lucky you might even chance upon really cheap piso fare flights.Also, Laoag International Airport is now a hub to international flights to and from Hongkong and some parts of mainland China.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Here are the addresses and contact numbers of some of the Laoag-bound buses:
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Philippine Rabbit Bus Lines: Rizal Ave., Manila & EDSA, Q.C. Tel # 734-9838, 734-9836
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dominion Bus Line: New York St., Cubao, Q.C. Tel # 731-4180, 741-4146
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Partas Bus Company: Aurora Blvd., Q.C. Tel. # 725-7303, 724-9820
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Maria de Leon Transit: Dapitan cor. Gelinos Sts., Sampaloc, Manila Tel # 731-4907
</span><br />
<br />Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-57751220250092411702010-08-19T02:21:00.000+08:002012-01-17T03:06:10.786+08:00My Pagudpud Adventure: Taking It Easy on the Fast Lane<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiguhNBI5a9z_U7wkw_8bowtyM_3UtNKUbmaFVKdVQ7squ2y4Q6F90NaRLjG1bVKtJXT-HESauByjeY7_2Uk-YXtomgT-LSPKy9LikdwVCjCWfnHAehRLkVDeP2-z0i5gN6k3MLxyouxrGP/s1600/DSC00207.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiguhNBI5a9z_U7wkw_8bowtyM_3UtNKUbmaFVKdVQ7squ2y4Q6F90NaRLjG1bVKtJXT-HESauByjeY7_2Uk-YXtomgT-LSPKy9LikdwVCjCWfnHAehRLkVDeP2-z0i5gN6k3MLxyouxrGP/s320/DSC00207.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516848969795157234" /></a><br /><br />My <b>Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte</b> trip was <span style="font-style:italic;">lagare</span> to say the least, yet so full of new and exciting experiences for a desk-bound lawstude like me that I can't help but make a short checklist out of them... <br /><br />Rode a tricycle that overtook a ten-wheeler truck? check.<br />Rode a tricycle running at full speed to tour a province? check.<br />Stood beneath a gigantic windmill? check.<br />Had my picture taken beneath a windmill? check. <br />Nagpapikchur sa gitna ng mahabang tulay?check.<br />Climbed my first lighthouse? check(this started my quest to climb as many lighthouses as possible). <br />Climbed a huge white rock formation near the sea? check.<br />Ate a suspicious-looking orange-colored, deep-fried empanada that turned out to be so addictively delicious? check.<br />Ate a yummy banana split while drinking an equally yummy pineapple margarita? check. <br />Watched the sunset on the beach? check. <br />Stayed at a nice affordable hotel by the beach, with a vista of the sea? check.<br /><br />All these only in Pagudpud-- and all for just one day and for a minimal budget :)<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">From Vigan to Laoag<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /><br />Following our <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2010/08/of-cobbled-stone-streets-calesa-rides.html">Vigan</a> tour (previous post), Lheila and I proceeded to <b>Pagudpud</b> by taking the bus from Vigan to Laoag and then taking another, not to mention, older and creakier bus to Pagudpud. We left Vigan early in the morning, checked out of Casa Teofila at around 7AM as Shiela rested; rented a tricycle for Php30 to the bus terminal where the aircon Partas bus leaves for Laoag; and ate our breakfast of cookies and mineral water while on board the bus, the trip lasting around one-and-a-half hours. Fare was around one hundred pesos (P100.00). <br /><br />To those who would be coming from Manila, one could take a <b>bus</b> going directly to Laoag. There are a number of bus lines catering daily and nightly Manila-Laoag trips, such as Partas, Viron, Florida, Fariñas, Philippine Rabbit and Dominion Bus Lines. The trip normally takes around eleven hours and fare could be between 600 to 800 or so for ordinary aircon and deluxe trip. Good thing that the highway to Ilocos is in good condition. Tourists who want to avoid the long bus ride and have some extra cash to spare may opt to take the <b>plane</b> going to Laoag. This is recommended especially because airline promos of Manila to Laoag flight could go really low. Our return ticket to Manila, for example, was only Php 699. As I've said several times, it pays to book early for a cheaper flight :)Cebu Pacific flies three times a week to and from the Laoag International Airport and Philippine Airlines also caters regular flights.<br /><br />After arriving in Laoag, we asked around for the station of buses going to Pagudpud, which was actually not so far away from where we got off. The mini-bus going to Pagudpud was really old-school, although it was still beyond my expectation that we'd blow a tire in the middle of the trip and be unceremoniously delayed. It was noon already when we arrived at Pagudpud. <br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Pagudpud At First Glance</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7dgJtLjHd7l4pk2yVgGdEto2s5ip6BMyhLgbeV7M_g2TdRH9uwBPgzYnYwU93kv9W5sv8UfAVUh_H9He8qoRfQLynzXe_cpWg-0nhmkdq8xNwZ4782iWG9fEPDaDsSsrtJVh8fcviem1/s1600/1_970283253l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7dgJtLjHd7l4pk2yVgGdEto2s5ip6BMyhLgbeV7M_g2TdRH9uwBPgzYnYwU93kv9W5sv8UfAVUh_H9He8qoRfQLynzXe_cpWg-0nhmkdq8xNwZ4782iWG9fEPDaDsSsrtJVh8fcviem1/s320/1_970283253l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516849201228937634" /></a><br /> The DIY-Tourists: Early AM in Pagudpud<br /><br />From the first moment I stepped in Pagudpud, I have that pleasant feeling of being in a rustic coastal town. It's very peaceful and simple and that simplicity is part of its charms. There were no fancy restaurants around. We chanced upon this small carenderia near the plaza where we ate our lunch of <i>pinakbet</i> and <i>longganisa</i> for less than a hundred pesos. Lheila planned and prepared ahead so our hotel room at <b>Polaris Beach Resort was </b>already booked and the Resort, with its friendly and accommodating staff, also arranged a tricycle that will fetch us when we arrive. If you book at Polaris, you can also ask them to arrange the Pagudpud tour for you so that all you have to do upon arrival is to confirm and voila, enjoy! Polaris is just several minutes away from the plaza and in no time, we were there already. We checked in, rested for a while and then prepared for our afternoon tour.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Where We Stayed<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /><br />I found <a href="http://www.pagudpodshore.com/polaris.html">Polaris Resort</a> to be a really nice hotel-resort without the sky-high price. The place was clean and I can't believe that our room is just Php 1200 (Php400 for each of us). It has one double and one single bed, so the twins shared the double and I got the single bed. The aircon was not just aircon but super aircon--I nearly freezed, but only because I was too lazy to get up and adjust the temp, choosing instead to endure the cold draft hehe. The room itself was maaliwalas (fresh-looking) with its pastel-colored walls. The CR was clean and there is a balconaje outside where we have a nice view of the beach. There are other cheaper rooms (PHP 800) available good for two persons, as well as larger rooms where a family could squeeze in at a relatively cheap price (approx. PHP400 per head). There's a restaurant in the first floor, but I was not able to sample the cooking because I was so satisfied with the empanada we bought at the plaza later that night :)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Places We've Been to; Things We've Done</span><br /><br />At around 1PM the tricycle that will take us on our Pagudpud tour arrived to fetch us. My bad, I don't have his number but as far as I know, hotels or inns have contacts with these tour providers so you can easily avail of their services. And there are quite a number of them! During our time, there were around four groups that took the trike trip, including us. I'd say that the ride is not for the faint-hearted, but I'd vouch that it is also quite safe. Fare or rent for the tricycle was Php 1000.00 and this covers the standard tour of Pagudpud's tourist spots (discussed below), but you can also make requests with no additional charges like what we've done when we decided to stop at Kapurpuruwan Vista Resort. Just use your charms with the manong driver, as needed :)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Cape Bojeador</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsNmvvP6o8lc8s7SXjJC4PyM9DplolBiVLIrA7eD2HJvqsRniQ-ZMbLNN1-SOYr5BCfIGLH5-4-0zUK2gPph4gVU9kjS6Kj_OsmdjGw8Ml3_G5oxK9ld5ZKS8kh5hcpIhnWMVlamNmhAI/s1600/DSC00185.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsNmvvP6o8lc8s7SXjJC4PyM9DplolBiVLIrA7eD2HJvqsRniQ-ZMbLNN1-SOYr5BCfIGLH5-4-0zUK2gPph4gVU9kjS6Kj_OsmdjGw8Ml3_G5oxK9ld5ZKS8kh5hcpIhnWMVlamNmhAI/s320/DSC00185.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516846156688091906" /></a><br /> The Cape Bojeador<br /><br />Our first stop was Cape Bojeador located at Bojeador, Ilocos Norte. The Cape Bojeador lighthouse was a good start for our trip because it instantly got my heart pumping after a climb of more than a hundred steps. I have no choice but to endure the seemingly endless steps since my companion, Lheila, appears to have no struggle whatsoever in climbing the stairs. Nonetheless, I immediately forgot the torment of our tedious climb once I reached the top and got awed by the view. That Cape Bojeador experience started my quest to climb every lighthouse I come across with and hopefully, there will be a number of them...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhybS47-b6eOQHOM2FD7rwU6IC4H77NEeRFSn21TPLl3d10Y7WErkhehqybvFz8JZBJGT7s-MQi67jf7Bg1JBzykbRGp4OCgexPMUgNwtTy4WPqXlhqqE20h0NrHVoKBNh3rTfuQ7yhsmsO/s1600/DSC00192.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhybS47-b6eOQHOM2FD7rwU6IC4H77NEeRFSn21TPLl3d10Y7WErkhehqybvFz8JZBJGT7s-MQi67jf7Bg1JBzykbRGp4OCgexPMUgNwtTy4WPqXlhqqE20h0NrHVoKBNh3rTfuQ7yhsmsO/s320/DSC00192.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516846175355354130" /></a><br /> The Winding Staircase<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RyvP5YhPk7d7QBzAn1Y3I0i-GIrQgLy1xpn-B2mP_JptZEuD9GTcIl5fczO1Wq_49iqMlz5TSik6U6dEFOabYMleuh2GKcnVeD9gYGxdECXkPlfnd_KND6eJjkJhdPaJkLGFQPuBpu22/s1600/DSC00189.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RyvP5YhPk7d7QBzAn1Y3I0i-GIrQgLy1xpn-B2mP_JptZEuD9GTcIl5fczO1Wq_49iqMlz5TSik6U6dEFOabYMleuh2GKcnVeD9gYGxdECXkPlfnd_KND6eJjkJhdPaJkLGFQPuBpu22/s320/DSC00189.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516846200739774594" /></a><br /> View On Top<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjv30cYACLkHxOU2BEL0jr8Mrmi7NAMyqF-DuK3pKnLr4fmFEniMDbxE-PAV-2Gwf-6RXUxfHecCPI9R9lK0Fj_wFp34cMjba_Jr512zhsFqLitU6056W9pv4XFJGLgoIUGVTinGfpNHiZ/s1600/DSC00190.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjv30cYACLkHxOU2BEL0jr8Mrmi7NAMyqF-DuK3pKnLr4fmFEniMDbxE-PAV-2Gwf-6RXUxfHecCPI9R9lK0Fj_wFp34cMjba_Jr512zhsFqLitU6056W9pv4XFJGLgoIUGVTinGfpNHiZ/s320/DSC00190.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516846182317319362" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Kapurpurawan White Rock Formation</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4MlxFdbFH1UJCtRNdwUcMm6lYRePyjHuEwxx8WolzhEjudNuvfy00x_LD7q2anc8ay9_ir8Dr0c6IS6y6S69U1dv7kSQcpONYar9DC3l8hRRzNmaWCaxznFp8j6sK6-AMtjVkhq4xPjfm/s1600/DSC00194.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4MlxFdbFH1UJCtRNdwUcMm6lYRePyjHuEwxx8WolzhEjudNuvfy00x_LD7q2anc8ay9_ir8Dr0c6IS6y6S69U1dv7kSQcpONYar9DC3l8hRRzNmaWCaxznFp8j6sK6-AMtjVkhq4xPjfm/s320/DSC00194.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516847715630086402" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5VW1IkHAyKYJnsiitSYxkM9wyajYbVgFdZRapY0bh8n7KDovAOH7C3Uy1FvCMku4W2rb0TzeLpigELYkULBbLY9J34tKnlgUhixYUzprKZB-G4vznkdcZh6TIcpngHYDYk__8HFOQ_ga/s1600/DSC00193.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5VW1IkHAyKYJnsiitSYxkM9wyajYbVgFdZRapY0bh8n7KDovAOH7C3Uy1FvCMku4W2rb0TzeLpigELYkULBbLY9J34tKnlgUhixYUzprKZB-G4vznkdcZh6TIcpngHYDYk__8HFOQ_ga/s320/DSC00193.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516847696426780690" /></a><br /> Nature's Wonder: Kapurpurawah White Rock<br /><br />Our next stop was Kapurpurawan White Rock Formation. The rock formation, I can say, is one of nature's marvels. Its striking whiteness, height and unique shape are the handwork of wind,tide and minerals. According to the tour guides, it's a site usually frequented by photographers and in fact just the previous week, a photography class from a Manila school had their session there. It also served as a venue for a beauty pageant, although I'm quite certain that high heels will definitely not do against the sharp corals on the way to the white rock. Just like in the lighthouse, the hike toward the upper part of the rock was tiring but the feeling after--with a view of the sea and the exhilaration of standing close to the crashing waves--was priceless.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0C6gnVhUn1CQ7xwspAlgWeIlP7au96qM8CDIAisNSpgC82pmni67sLGFghc1Vwp3wHbktJdkJtsv3X21ghm5FjMI-NdtnoeL1IaYNzQT2IQg1LsVxmSG5hMjLPmB5cXi8aQZhEB22sbI/s1600/DSC00195.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0C6gnVhUn1CQ7xwspAlgWeIlP7au96qM8CDIAisNSpgC82pmni67sLGFghc1Vwp3wHbktJdkJtsv3X21ghm5FjMI-NdtnoeL1IaYNzQT2IQg1LsVxmSG5hMjLPmB5cXi8aQZhEB22sbI/s320/DSC00195.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516847725165262882" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZqn13gJNrYh59slxACWDjskdPDmKrb8rL3uFkDOhQUr-0WJ24NaUy8qh_7afY9IaL39TVYDOXamxvFlCSvHY-NVNYlUd-TuRCJwt4hvINKjfz3I0N-fy15wJ4GIGRFupAXtmAmJfy-YD/s1600/DSC00199.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZqn13gJNrYh59slxACWDjskdPDmKrb8rL3uFkDOhQUr-0WJ24NaUy8qh_7afY9IaL39TVYDOXamxvFlCSvHY-NVNYlUd-TuRCJwt4hvINKjfz3I0N-fy15wJ4GIGRFupAXtmAmJfy-YD/s320/DSC00199.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516847747249124578" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-ctHKYcO611RWga_4LemsM69NJ4Nj9r0zhpOYYGyuqUculq8RO66tBHdSuiPKlpFg4XUNXD_5z1Jl5HFe6zbKj5saYg1YfmU_5_MQlmCzvL8UdEghkJY_LQvX7xYnQfmf0Lh_YHXvbwc/s1600/DSC00197.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-ctHKYcO611RWga_4LemsM69NJ4Nj9r0zhpOYYGyuqUculq8RO66tBHdSuiPKlpFg4XUNXD_5z1Jl5HFe6zbKj5saYg1YfmU_5_MQlmCzvL8UdEghkJY_LQvX7xYnQfmf0Lh_YHXvbwc/s320/DSC00197.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523073083276048098" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1bQaaM4UOtmBMt-61xUMJe_zoCdCaB6F6500CKS9OeUnth9yk8gMcPAv5lhWXgVupWKpdvJ5ISb5wup2SuL1r7_Xl3QDSShwVkZ9EWd-2mH2NM9ypEvdPfoudo1IAJvvADeFo_tl7-bNT/s1600/DSC00200.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1bQaaM4UOtmBMt-61xUMJe_zoCdCaB6F6500CKS9OeUnth9yk8gMcPAv5lhWXgVupWKpdvJ5ISb5wup2SuL1r7_Xl3QDSShwVkZ9EWd-2mH2NM9ypEvdPfoudo1IAJvvADeFo_tl7-bNT/s320/DSC00200.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523073074391469730" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Bangui Windmills</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieg0AzALLIKqSGr9H1Jpxc3WbSIMka571DDhf0hG_GQuTumhbV5mCGklkMjR7MvsQfXNhYWrFgrg2NL7TU93ZWurLjCBEaUAHWVs5gTCbNXy2RME8s4vaXWMNADuubNQO0DLyvTJwdwacY/s1600/1_621488324l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieg0AzALLIKqSGr9H1Jpxc3WbSIMka571DDhf0hG_GQuTumhbV5mCGklkMjR7MvsQfXNhYWrFgrg2NL7TU93ZWurLjCBEaUAHWVs5gTCbNXy2RME8s4vaXWMNADuubNQO0DLyvTJwdwacY/s320/1_621488324l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516843242537303122" /></a><br /> A Definite Must-See: Bangui Windmills<br /><br />Next stop was the Bangui Windmills. The Bangui windmills is one location that any tourist visiting Ilocos Norte should never miss. These eco-friendly, energy-generating giants that supply Ilocos' electricity needs, are definitely a must-see not just because it's nice to have your picture taken with them as the backdrop but because, in my case, I rarely get to see real windmills :) I could not believe how large the windmills really are that I caught my breath the first time I saw them.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRJoz4J9gzDiDF0K9Pu_R2BVE2-7ApU7-NaRKA7zzyyIog137QPG39NeilmthTprz6d68LoHVmtHzZhnw53m2kstN_I-5A_mA9Y1R3-Isbz898BhtIqOsHsq15fRjReirZDdmm_k4cOlF/s1600/DSC00205.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRJoz4J9gzDiDF0K9Pu_R2BVE2-7ApU7-NaRKA7zzyyIog137QPG39NeilmthTprz6d68LoHVmtHzZhnw53m2kstN_I-5A_mA9Y1R3-Isbz898BhtIqOsHsq15fRjReirZDdmm_k4cOlF/s320/DSC00205.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516843252166630450" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Patapat Viaduct<br /></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaD457ocv7W_LjvcYjIltlqV8k5i3PKMSj-6YLnvQU4WYfe8d-23PPW__2Zgpo8M2GCgiFTXWy8pnRlG4Hf4ZctEeJAE4YUYsvWhg-wI41qO7hxmLmOGKpEJxzyXpWX3x-bPiYfrbZfcki/s1600/DSC00210.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaD457ocv7W_LjvcYjIltlqV8k5i3PKMSj-6YLnvQU4WYfe8d-23PPW__2Zgpo8M2GCgiFTXWy8pnRlG4Hf4ZctEeJAE4YUYsvWhg-wI41qO7hxmLmOGKpEJxzyXpWX3x-bPiYfrbZfcki/s320/DSC00210.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516839179323256002" /></a><br /> Where Mountain and Ocean Meet: The Patapat Viaduct<br /><br />We stopped for a few minutes at the Patapat Viaduct. What is so special with this concrete highway anyway that it deserved to be in our itinerary? Well, first, it is the northernmost roadway in Ilocos Norte (and second northermost roadway in Luzon) comprised of a winding bridge constructed at the edge of a coastal mountain of the Cordillera Mountain Range. Second, it has an amazing view of the earth,sky and water--that plain and simple. And while enjoying the view of the ocean, Lhei and I ate her choco chips <span style="font-style:italic;">baon</span> and of course, took pictures. Such moments of simple contentment are the most memorable for me. We can't stay very long though because we were literally parked in a winding bridge and it was late afternoon already, we hoped to catch the sunset at the Blue Lagoon.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRH9gwmAC3vZhc903QSKIx_plxvWPpLKOeSiGw8czj5BFZ502JjXzLQgDQVY8X9UyTzmlmkTSnLUofY-jUb3Xz8gVJxeIYu9fp6vI84xGyO0S9NrKrXahbxTvcyGkc1c8ewGvvBMPMixoA/s1600/DSC00211.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRH9gwmAC3vZhc903QSKIx_plxvWPpLKOeSiGw8czj5BFZ502JjXzLQgDQVY8X9UyTzmlmkTSnLUofY-jUb3Xz8gVJxeIYu9fp6vI84xGyO0S9NrKrXahbxTvcyGkc1c8ewGvvBMPMixoA/s320/DSC00211.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516839187841365026" /></a><br /> Lhei, Taking a Pause at the Patapat Viaduct<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Blue Lagoon</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8qlrPjlJSj2lNcCcz-hrT_DcI-vMHKg4ELbpt_H03CsZmrj_s5WRjv6ctUyNeRVR1qH8RuV_Z5GB5kCvECVNctrMbnxkGpXwL4DuD89abZWxUjpWkahwlpl4VbToLr_cy_eN0uoz6fqiv/s1600/DSC00215.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8qlrPjlJSj2lNcCcz-hrT_DcI-vMHKg4ELbpt_H03CsZmrj_s5WRjv6ctUyNeRVR1qH8RuV_Z5GB5kCvECVNctrMbnxkGpXwL4DuD89abZWxUjpWkahwlpl4VbToLr_cy_eN0uoz6fqiv/s320/DSC00215.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516838188899288386" /></a><br /> The Blue Lagoon<br /><br />Blue Lagoon is a hidden treasure. Locally known as Malingay cove, Blue Lagoon is called as such because of the dark blue color of its waters. It was late afternoon already when we got there and the water looked even bluer, with the sun casting an orange-y glow that always produces a nice effect on the water. The sand is also white, but with courser grains than that of other famous beaches. All the same, with its natural unexploited beauty, the Blue Lagoon is a relaxing spot to end the afternoon.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Kapuluan Vista Resort</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICKXqfIBzICQrwvzYWbmzEVMP4UPMmyD9rVu5JmpZqRqsHqCOv3hpdVCBfYdd33hIjE5QLLY0oo-7mEiOYlaya9AQ0l6Bxi0QTDvH6qPD3zJG51qboWwj9wpGaJToTG19P5iCS4ifPSVy/s1600/1_190758524l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICKXqfIBzICQrwvzYWbmzEVMP4UPMmyD9rVu5JmpZqRqsHqCOv3hpdVCBfYdd33hIjE5QLLY0oo-7mEiOYlaya9AQ0l6Bxi0QTDvH6qPD3zJG51qboWwj9wpGaJToTG19P5iCS4ifPSVy/s320/1_190758524l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516837569784187410" /></a><br /> The Author and Her Companion, Lheila, at the Entrance of the Resort<br /><br />While in Blue Lagoon, Lhei told me that there is a resort nearby that really has a relaxing atmosphere, the <a href="http://www.tjhawaii.com/kvr/about.asp">Kapuluan Vista Resort</a>. Check out the pictures of the <a href="http://www.tjhawaii.com/kvr/about.asp">resort</a> on its web site and see its week-end getaway ambiance. In fact, when we got there, a group of what appears to be young professionals were happily enjoying themselves in the swimming pool. Lhei and I chose a small table near the pool not to watch the happy vacationers :) but to have a better view (for the pictures of course!). When the menu arrived, I decided to try one of their cocktail drinks, a pineapple margarita, which according to the waitress is an oft-ordered item. Lhei ordered the scrumptious banana split. We shared both the drinks and the icecream+banana treat, as well as the cost (P90 for the drinks and P120 for the sweet treat). <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtURU8aErUxTkU7AMy7fgYZoY3oklu6m7FTPV7DW3y5ZPmoXaU7QrXhh46WUiATArr79oGgWDfVA_JQeyVn19ezDlxbE6_RvVJS7SD32ZIbnRP6Gua-X7fWYn0h-Dy-qnrmYtOuzshcKx4/s1600/DSC00232.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtURU8aErUxTkU7AMy7fgYZoY3oklu6m7FTPV7DW3y5ZPmoXaU7QrXhh46WUiATArr79oGgWDfVA_JQeyVn19ezDlxbE6_RvVJS7SD32ZIbnRP6Gua-X7fWYn0h-Dy-qnrmYtOuzshcKx4/s320/DSC00232.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516841912103963538" /></a><br /> Afternoon Treats: Margarita and Banana Split<br /><br />The Kapuluan Vista Resort served as our last stop and we headed back to the Pagudpud centro (in front of the plaza) to meet Sheila. Sheila, who was just from her Vigan tour, has just finished an empanada so Lhei and I also ordered ours. MMMMMmmm...I will never forget the taste of the Ilocos empanada--hot off the cooking pan,made with fresh veggie stuffing (ubod, togue, etc) and longganisa wrapped in an orange-colored dough, and generously drizzled with sukang Ilocos. Superb. One empanada was enough to make us feel stuffed so we skipped dinner, headed back to the hotel,washed up,shared stories and slowly dozed to sleep. <br /><br />One day in Pagudpud is enough to enjoy its tourist spots.It was a long day for me, but even though my body was tired, my mind was happy :) It would have been nice to stay a little more longer in Pagudpud to enjoy Saud Beach, but we were bound to return to Laoag the following day for our flight back to Manila. Hence the next day, we were off to Laoag for the last leg of our trip before finally going back home.<br /><br /><br />Here are the addresses and contact numbers of some of the Laoag-bound buses:<br /><br />Philippine Rabbit Bus Lines: Rizal Ave., Manila & EDSA, Q.C. Tel # 734-9838, 734-9836<br /><br />Dominion Bus Line: New York St., Cubao, Q.C. Tel # 731-4180, 741-4146<br /><br />Partas Bus Company: Aurora Blvd., Q.C. Tel. # 725-7303, 724-9820<br /><br />Maria de Leon Transit: Dapitan cor. Gelinos Sts., Sampaloc, Manila Tel # 731-4907Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com2Pan-Philippine Hwy, Bangui, Philippines18.523887630466156 120.7974243164062518.283070630466156 120.48156731640626 18.764704630466156 121.11328131640624tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-76875405147613544502010-08-18T01:23:00.001+08:002012-02-27T12:36:05.428+08:00The Vigan Experience: Cobbled Stone Streets, Calesa Rides and Ilocano Treats<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7U1usWv_QkhMYwh2G3kohdjWWSAO9aoc09ZqUJc4z-m8LsqpxtErnFSQ1cBcQI1Fpx6Wf6Z3KsboG7dA4IeuOVXpKL45JP-AtGH8SBE0TCmFlbrnkz81aIivl6Og6lnuLBZLn0F-qeGR/s1600/1_945589861l.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506473061935441074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7U1usWv_QkhMYwh2G3kohdjWWSAO9aoc09ZqUJc4z-m8LsqpxtErnFSQ1cBcQI1Fpx6Wf6Z3KsboG7dA4IeuOVXpKL45JP-AtGH8SBE0TCmFlbrnkz81aIivl6Og6lnuLBZLn0F-qeGR/s320/1_945589861l.jpg" style="display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
The author, in her not-so-prepared pose...<br />
<br />
<br />
For someone who has lived her entire life in Southern Luzon, the North seems to be a distant place cloaked in a haze of mystery and adventure, so that when my friend Lheila asked me to go with them to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ilocos</span>, it was an offer I can hardly resist--not that I even tried to resist!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">How It All Started...</span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwL35LXJXRN5EY2Eq77qdkwMScbk6jqPyOkWG6nhrAMpNdAJafJJwVLs_pPRQVXp3FU8u5pf4iLKst-6fIWYY0POWqJASRRyiNYrAeZEZVxy6TBp35__5uCxutRc6AgLkgSKGu1Gq0QJ0C/s1600/DSC00172.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506613997243205042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwL35LXJXRN5EY2Eq77qdkwMScbk6jqPyOkWG6nhrAMpNdAJafJJwVLs_pPRQVXp3FU8u5pf4iLKst-6fIWYY0POWqJASRRyiNYrAeZEZVxy6TBp35__5uCxutRc6AgLkgSKGu1Gq0QJ0C/s320/DSC00172.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Ever since I can remember, I have always wanted to step into the cobbled stone streets and feast my eyes on the beautiful vista of Vigan's Spanish colonial houses. In fact, I almost had the chance when my Humanities II class at UPLLB held a field trip to Ilocos. Being a cash-strapped <span style="font-style: italic;">iskolar ng bayan</span>, however, I forgo the trip because I could not bring myself to ask for extra money from my parents. I promised though that I will manage to go there one day. The opportunity knocked once more when Lheila and Sheila (two super cool travelers!) concocted a Vigan-Pagudpud-Laoag itinerary. This time, the timing was perfect. We had no classes in law school; midterms were just over; and I still have few savings left for a tight-budget <span style="font-style: italic;">biyahe</span>.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Trip and Arrival</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
Our trip to Vigan was scheduled Friday night and we planned to catch Partas' deluxe class for a more comfy trip. However, we ended up riding on the Viron bus instead after the <span style="font-style: italic;">makukulit </span> na ticket agents at the Viron terminal convinced us to board their Laoag-bound trip. The bus was satisfactory; it was new but the seats were sort of small (or am I just large?), so Lhei and I were a little bit crowded. Yet we're no-frills travelers and fare was only around Php 650. So overall, it was just OK. <br />
<br />
The bus left the station at around five PM and stopped several times at different stopovers. I dozed in and out of sleep while Lheila, beneath her bright yellow sarong she used as blanket, was soundly asleep (a real backpacker indeed!). At four AM, we were awakened by the voice of the <span style="font-style: italic;">konduktor</span>, yelling that it's time for us to get off since we're in Vigan already. Finally! :)<br />
<br />
Yaawwn. Stretch. I was tired but excited. We were dropped off just in front of the "Vigan" arc where tricyles wait for early morning passengers. We asked the trike drivers where we can possibly check-in -- a clean but cheap place, preferably. The funny thing is, they almost instantly agreed over one name: Casa Teofila.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Casa Teofila</span>, as it turned out, has that motel-y ambiance, which I simply shrugged off because we found the price of the place, at Php 600 for a double room, quite reasonable (i just refused to think what the previous guests have been there for). We're kick-ass budget travelers after all! :) As far as I'm concerned, the room has all the basics: a queen-size bed large enough for both of us, air-conditioning,cable television and hot and cold shower. Plus, it was clean and the Php 600 already covered more than 24 hours of our stay. Most of the time we were out exploring Vigan anyway.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kalesa Ride...Visit to Historical and Scenic Landmarks...and a Taste of Ilocano Cooking</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
After catching on some beauty rest, we had a hearty breakfast at Chowking. I was delighted to see that the design of Chowking also has that 19th-century, Spanish-era theme. I would later discover, however, that the same is true for all the restaurants within the City, particularly those near Calle Crisologo.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdm05-bnB3hpcUMzyQO32pu1k31SMFQmQk-KPcCS-4o6ipfuKjuOQ6VLohcObawVF-2epQiOAqk4jaBKzwflAWX6bplyR0xRBoKxnhFcuH5SxjvYXW4VY3civHS1WAC2LFC_yezCveFfDp/s1600/DSC00154.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506448536893144754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdm05-bnB3hpcUMzyQO32pu1k31SMFQmQk-KPcCS-4o6ipfuKjuOQ6VLohcObawVF-2epQiOAqk4jaBKzwflAWX6bplyR0xRBoKxnhFcuH5SxjvYXW4VY3civHS1WAC2LFC_yezCveFfDp/s320/DSC00154.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Chowking Vigan<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdu6NZ7rSVlgam6c7EUK-qtEXoQf3wI-Hs7ewmurTBymQ2drK3uAW59UTDo56cUTbDLd_fBPZiiQeBeDzIQYyY4LYv6vQzG5Bxn_lz86kZ77aM9NPB-9XshyphenhyphenA7KmDbCJ-5GpGx3FZJy7H/s1600/DSC00176.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506449513203245730" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdu6NZ7rSVlgam6c7EUK-qtEXoQf3wI-Hs7ewmurTBymQ2drK3uAW59UTDo56cUTbDLd_fBPZiiQeBeDzIQYyY4LYv6vQzG5Bxn_lz86kZ77aM9NPB-9XshyphenhyphenA7KmDbCJ-5GpGx3FZJy7H/s320/DSC00176.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Max's Vigan<br />
<br />
<br />
Just outside Chowking are the <span style="font-style: italic;">calesas</span> (horse-drawn buggy) parked near <span style="font-weight: bold;">Plaza Salcedo</span> and in front of <span style="font-weight: bold;">St. Paul's Cathedral</span>. We hired one of the <span style="font-style: italic;">calesa</span> drivers to take us on a tour around Vigan on board his <span style="font-style: italic;">calesa</span> for Php 150 per hour.Tourists need not worry about exorbitant rates because <span style="font-style: italic;">calesa</span> rides seem to be regulated by the DOT. Rates are uniform at Php 150 per hour, which by the way was super <span style="font-style: italic;">sulit</span> already because we visited a lot of places in less than three hours. What is more, all that we had to do was to sit back and relax because the driver knew exactly where to take us. These <span style="font-style: italic;">calesa</span> drivers are experts and will take tourists to must-see places without the need of telling them. Also, I can't remember seeing jeepneys around. Upon investigating, I discovered that only tricyles and <span style="font-style: italic;">calesas</span> or <span style="font-style: italic;">caretelas</span> are allowed in the area.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQjEKg7eSvq1xpPj8ys2SvK-lUEET-6ZxkOyIHZE608mOkcLwPn6fXYzFmjEJFbOldGHEkZJvvUnA2EuXefognxXwXBmF1aWc_GYQD6ihSObWUe9aEluek4f5CsdYSs3lT6RwuwiJ5YQH/s1600/1_398357169l.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506450976511501890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQjEKg7eSvq1xpPj8ys2SvK-lUEET-6ZxkOyIHZE608mOkcLwPn6fXYzFmjEJFbOldGHEkZJvvUnA2EuXefognxXwXBmF1aWc_GYQD6ihSObWUe9aEluek4f5CsdYSs3lT6RwuwiJ5YQH/s320/1_398357169l.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
The start of our <span style="font-style: italic;">calesa</span> ride<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctLsfZDrGD4DvxgifsuoFF8hHx8CBinG49MXMLJJUHA0-gft2jVa_YjEJkCkEl6uk1529aSvQ3dh9Wq9lVLGBJreP4SYkjTmVeqYeyeI87LoJLO8ZJ8sHOKmDa4dfWMCuG4e1ccP3UIKP/s1600/DSC00178.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506451737905102338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctLsfZDrGD4DvxgifsuoFF8hHx8CBinG49MXMLJJUHA0-gft2jVa_YjEJkCkEl6uk1529aSvQ3dh9Wq9lVLGBJreP4SYkjTmVeqYeyeI87LoJLO8ZJ8sHOKmDa4dfWMCuG4e1ccP3UIKP/s320/DSC00178.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
St. Paul's Cathedral of Vigan<br />
<br />
<br />
Our first stop was the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Burgos Museum</span>, the residence of Padre Jose Burgos of the GOMBURZA, who was one of the three martyred priests during the Cavite Mutiny. The Museum preserved its 19th-century facade and interiors, with plenty of memorabilia related to the life of Padre Burgos and the era in which he lived. It also showcases different relic collections both from the pre-Spanish and Spanish periods.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTIJcyjTN12TdcaR40iLsxyt8emxVFa9mU5qMBRwjAADQj63FpBrtPiFK1wvPXu-tbhej1OPq8tWo2hqZWwlDxhN9TnewLCYcS3yMhgZ1CzK56v3s-XxJm1OZqIdPIipKVV2A2GhyBqgR/s1600/1_640796741l.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506452438778835618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTIJcyjTN12TdcaR40iLsxyt8emxVFa9mU5qMBRwjAADQj63FpBrtPiFK1wvPXu-tbhej1OPq8tWo2hqZWwlDxhN9TnewLCYcS3yMhgZ1CzK56v3s-XxJm1OZqIdPIipKVV2A2GhyBqgR/s320/1_640796741l.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
Lhei, standing beside an antique <span style="font-style: italic;">calesa</span> near the foot of the stairs of Burgos Museum<br />
<br />
<br />
Not far from the Burgos Museum is the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Saint Augustine Church</span> and its Bell Tower, more popularly known as the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bantay Church Bell Tower</span>. The church and its belfry are considered important historic and religious markers in Vigan, as it was there that the Diego Silang uprising occurred, as well as the miraculous acts of the Lady of Charity. Today, the belfry is also a picturesque spot.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuWzHS5OPhQFyl6tMzdHQyf80or1ZujjVaImndg7AKvXX4e2o37hlRuuIfFRs0r7JYW57mU82m3aPgiAASH2V1kZ7IZUVypmfAP7QKVJjz5QswWWKKETXaCa9eHk2AKtCo7edMJTMf6Xi/s1600/DSC00158.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506454263293229442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuWzHS5OPhQFyl6tMzdHQyf80or1ZujjVaImndg7AKvXX4e2o37hlRuuIfFRs0r7JYW57mU82m3aPgiAASH2V1kZ7IZUVypmfAP7QKVJjz5QswWWKKETXaCa9eHk2AKtCo7edMJTMf6Xi/s320/DSC00158.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
The Bantay Bell Tower<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYysyHNdpmvqy9TaEd3NJNP9to8EtdSbaDjT1f9fXCm6qR1rllI8IB0s2a4ZVWbaNWveos1_jBF85Z66LpXgLKD5OhBycCPIYcJR79Jqy3oijsu3x1phpUOYpsTQYjdUYOHiU_YckhSGv/s1600/DSC00156.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506454704482671378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYysyHNdpmvqy9TaEd3NJNP9to8EtdSbaDjT1f9fXCm6qR1rllI8IB0s2a4ZVWbaNWveos1_jBF85Z66LpXgLKD5OhBycCPIYcJR79Jqy3oijsu3x1phpUOYpsTQYjdUYOHiU_YckhSGv/s320/DSC00156.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
Saint Augustine Church<br />
<br />
<br />
Our <span style="font-style: italic;">calesa</span> driver/tour guide took us next to the <b>pottery</b>-making site where the famous <b>burnay</b> jars are being made to date. After taking some pictures, we then proceeded to Governor Chavit Singson's one heck of a recreational park: the <span style="font-weight: bold;">BALUARTE</span> ("bulwark" in English). The place is complete with life-size replicas of dinosaurs (crazy!), a butterfly garden and a zoo, wherein kept are exotic animals the likes of ostriches, llamas, and of course, Singson's beloved tigers! At the center of the park is a palomino ride available to guests free of charge.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqS0hhbIoyIDgF_4h4Yc_cba3CKKp0PLUV5UVzpJXJ1WrGsJVvtbVNRGIDMdCbQWGphpFvGD3Lkeg1u_h-hlORJWeUYn_3S79ZtW76XDncyu0XOWExrO2fzbnm6avRO_5SVV5WFE6KL56h/s1600/1_171872523l.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506486049655592658" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqS0hhbIoyIDgF_4h4Yc_cba3CKKp0PLUV5UVzpJXJ1WrGsJVvtbVNRGIDMdCbQWGphpFvGD3Lkeg1u_h-hlORJWeUYn_3S79ZtW76XDncyu0XOWExrO2fzbnm6avRO_5SVV5WFE6KL56h/s320/1_171872523l.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeAB-Ecsmgq9YlYe6nGpACbhCd-J7lSM8zKSg3Y7T438fYqxF9IfYgoteJQK8HcRsSxW4Zzvkt_b2pdaRVvuGL62hUQWn6dkO89if-wcJawfSujr4jhKiyTk9RIWtf4cV15lbePXQH1aM7/s1600/DSC00165.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506462389773738434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeAB-Ecsmgq9YlYe6nGpACbhCd-J7lSM8zKSg3Y7T438fYqxF9IfYgoteJQK8HcRsSxW4Zzvkt_b2pdaRVvuGL62hUQWn6dkO89if-wcJawfSujr4jhKiyTk9RIWtf4cV15lbePXQH1aM7/s320/DSC00165.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
Governor Singson's impressive Baluarte<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlMeRcit5ZFOnmFLq7cOuSSCxIKPg-J8o3uDz8NpKNrJ5F9KSO7nZaE4vkmYw0ewkP1idvBqFHXz36tBrNS_8Ufe5-fIJX0wouJvYLzyz3ASOiGK5Rb2_Mg7lHjfD9O3Ff_WjdWBDuwrVy/s1600/DSC00168.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506463057665779138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlMeRcit5ZFOnmFLq7cOuSSCxIKPg-J8o3uDz8NpKNrJ5F9KSO7nZaE4vkmYw0ewkP1idvBqFHXz36tBrNS_8Ufe5-fIJX0wouJvYLzyz3ASOiGK5Rb2_Mg7lHjfD9O3Ff_WjdWBDuwrVy/s320/DSC00168.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
The butterfly garden at Baluarte<br />
<br />
<br />
After Baluarte we stopped by at the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hidden Garden</span> where, expectedly, there is a garden--although not exactly hidden. The ambiance of the place, with all its bonsai plants and landscaping, gave me that Zen-like sense of calm. There are canteens that offer snacks and meals, but we decided to have our lunch at one of the restaurants in Calle Crisologo for more of that Vigan feel. However, we did not refuse the free taste of basi wine offered at one of the stores :) Basi wine is made from sugarcane juice, hence the pleasant tinge of sweetness in its taste. I guess this is another penny-pinching tip to tourists: try out the freebies (free tastes, free samples, etc...) LOL! Just make sure that the source is safe though.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQ0rlN7SqemcDo-1Hw1ChB83kHS5rI40Xi8Yn5ig4-PhcLEZN91jenEcHdMbOsjKZwm9RHzGvFRuyvFE1cFfSZwbVKM8l2X45S9egv9JrHzcT682M3I0yKqPXrMNMfQqhyphenhyphenzArxCvg2qbG/s1600/DSC00164.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506461113254277698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQ0rlN7SqemcDo-1Hw1ChB83kHS5rI40Xi8Yn5ig4-PhcLEZN91jenEcHdMbOsjKZwm9RHzGvFRuyvFE1cFfSZwbVKM8l2X45S9egv9JrHzcT682M3I0yKqPXrMNMfQqhyphenhyphenzArxCvg2qbG/s320/DSC00164.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
Lhei, not-so-hidden at Hidden Garden<br />
<br />
<br />
Finally, my much awaited part of the trip--<span style="font-weight: bold;">Calle Crisologo</span>. Calle Crisologo is that street often featured in postcard pictures of Vigan, the spot which Vigan is most known for. The cobbled stone <span style="font-style: italic;">calle </span> is lined with houses built way back in the Spanish colonial era and are now included in the World Heritage List. Anyways, I was a kid in a candy store :)<br />
<br />
We hopped off the <span style="font-style: italic;">calesa</span>, paid manong driver and strolled around to savor the view of the well-preserved houses standing tall and proud in their antique glories and still gracefully weathering the test of time. Most of said houses, or at least the first floors thereof, now serve as souvenir stores and restaurants.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJH6VwifGXVn3NTQOZWAcL5UokSG9q3fMqgDHRNzxQmjeQoAmPRElIHyPJ5QjliI0ajZnUwALJMYAa0Cwn4gUED2Bv3Zwt-0-9IgeNyPEKG4HQ6b5Z___bOrjTxoZn4aBjNzGyTQfRdVWs/s1600/DSC00171.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506623106184306706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJH6VwifGXVn3NTQOZWAcL5UokSG9q3fMqgDHRNzxQmjeQoAmPRElIHyPJ5QjliI0ajZnUwALJMYAa0Cwn4gUED2Bv3Zwt-0-9IgeNyPEKG4HQ6b5Z___bOrjTxoZn4aBjNzGyTQfRdVWs/s320/DSC00171.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmGGr_VEws16aNQYvzKnNKFAMuBF2eAHYJK0RIpLq_huBuaZ7JAE5UcdcYH0Z9urRm3SjQgPzWy_4aOCW4rkECNSdmgRtzuLDuCqIfg8uUPagp2WUTWUwZ2KTUAbtrc79-Tx3KBW_HG3XC/s1600/DSC00170.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506465527509713026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmGGr_VEws16aNQYvzKnNKFAMuBF2eAHYJK0RIpLq_huBuaZ7JAE5UcdcYH0Z9urRm3SjQgPzWy_4aOCW4rkECNSdmgRtzuLDuCqIfg8uUPagp2WUTWUwZ2KTUAbtrc79-Tx3KBW_HG3XC/s320/DSC00170.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOo-wJejYfc-Qg6Cb23G6MRjvYTYVedQKLGBTy9mhO2X4-7z1C3NjytY-OkKLTtMv8jlzu9NOzrp4MQuYkbOEvdxpeNfOvGc3j3Jsx4sG79e_eTi3UVIC4bAW6KAcxdhrZHg3rKvZ0WW8d/s1600/DSC00174.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506465540857885634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOo-wJejYfc-Qg6Cb23G6MRjvYTYVedQKLGBTy9mhO2X4-7z1C3NjytY-OkKLTtMv8jlzu9NOzrp4MQuYkbOEvdxpeNfOvGc3j3Jsx4sG79e_eTi3UVIC4bAW6KAcxdhrZHg3rKvZ0WW8d/s320/DSC00174.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Simple but Scrumptious...(Yumyum)</span></span><br />
<br />
That's it, we toured the scenic spots of Vigan in less than a day. Now it's time to fill up our grumbling stomachs with some serious Ilocano dishes. We decided to have lunch at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Grandpa's Inn</span>, whose cozy brick interiors I really liked. Since our budgets won't allow us to pig out in wild abandon (plus we're on a diet hehe), we just ordered two dishes that we believed are quite representative of Ilocano cooking--munggo with <span style="font-style: italic;">ampalaya </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">bagnet</span> and Vigan-made <span style="font-style: italic;">longganisa</span>.<br />
<br />
The <span style="font-style: italic;">munggo</span> may have looked like plain munggo, but it was darn home-cooked delicious with the delectable pieces of bagnet (pork lechon kawali) in it. The longganisa: mmmmmmm! Vigan longganisa is not like the other longganisa specialties. It has a dry texture and that slightly-salty-slightly-sour smoky flavor...tastier when dipped in <span style="font-style: italic;">sukang Ilocos</span> (Ilocos vinegar). The entire meal cost us less than Php 300--around Php150 for the munggo with bagnet and Php75 for the longganisa, plus rice and beverages.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgww6hB_nNoLmfwSSp3vAvTM5oNNn1VtUbUC09IDrWpcuQYrtBk4cK6_Bo4LUgTO93xaXu3j3X7lA1yw_LKVLrHOYmnGj-m5n97mx1ajcoZlK3n5w3eJ_FH7ovE-Ei5waePErINV8tA4d_J/s1600/DSC00175.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506466603868255330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgww6hB_nNoLmfwSSp3vAvTM5oNNn1VtUbUC09IDrWpcuQYrtBk4cK6_Bo4LUgTO93xaXu3j3X7lA1yw_LKVLrHOYmnGj-m5n97mx1ajcoZlK3n5w3eJ_FH7ovE-Ei5waePErINV8tA4d_J/s320/DSC00175.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
Going gaga over munggo and longganisa...<br />
<br />
<br />
In a true Spanish fashion, I had siesta after lunch, succumbing to the drowsiness that overcame me in the middle of the afternoon heat. After my power nap, we freshened up again and headed out for another gastronomic experience, this time at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cafe Leona</span>. Cafe Leona offers a lot of Western cuisines in its menu, such as pastas, steaks and pizzas and cocktails too! I ordered pasta and then a cocktail drink, the names of which I already forgot. Food was a bit pricey--with a single main course dish costing above Php 100--but delicious all the same. We ate outside the cafe, just in front of the plaza and with a view of the Calle Crisologo where we strolled earlier that morning and of St. Paul's Cathedral. The atmosphere of the Cafe, added to the fact that we're eating outside, made me feel like I was in an old, Spanish barrio :) All I can say is that my experience far exceeded my imagination.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA863479XCuAIWY12qCwJQmTvIKDToM1JmfGKXtshZa6b4X8g8SDO9kAdqWSuwYIbVVWyaB-YF-4t4awSbmYJDFDnfSXcUBAv-IKauwbfb53KB8EAIjf4Hjjz3CdXSwEM5SQBm-QLE4rhj/s1600/DSC00182.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506486059999355442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA863479XCuAIWY12qCwJQmTvIKDToM1JmfGKXtshZa6b4X8g8SDO9kAdqWSuwYIbVVWyaB-YF-4t4awSbmYJDFDnfSXcUBAv-IKauwbfb53KB8EAIjf4Hjjz3CdXSwEM5SQBm-QLE4rhj/s320/DSC00182.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSQnxLVXTqtA2PY_idYeg4ui5awQfYsYzoYXGBXrRXfPDOxiAQ8OBvxK48uHZMH9aFf7xoCyg1MkhUti3JyleG9NXlpZNGM3zr7WhGRcG1UFpp4wGdvoaLotIaL19VOLIdMe-OD_kb-RSG/s1600/1_162198486l.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506466617369418034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSQnxLVXTqtA2PY_idYeg4ui5awQfYsYzoYXGBXrRXfPDOxiAQ8OBvxK48uHZMH9aFf7xoCyg1MkhUti3JyleG9NXlpZNGM3zr7WhGRcG1UFpp4wGdvoaLotIaL19VOLIdMe-OD_kb-RSG/s320/1_162198486l.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 272px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Anyways, that caps our fun day in Vigan. At around the same time, Sheila, Lheila's twin sister, was already traveling from Manila to Vigan. The plan was that she'd tour Vigan the next morning as Lhei and I head further North to Pagudpud and in the afternoon, we will all see each other. Lhei and I went back to our motel-y hotel room to recharge our drained energy reserves for our Pagudpud trip the following day, with more to do, more to visit and more to taste. I guess, I've said it all. Next base: <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/search/label/Pagudpud" target="_blank">Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte</a> :)<br />
<br />
Here are the addresses and contact numbers of some of the Laoag-bound buses:<br />
<br />
Philippine Rabbit Bus Lines: Rizal Ave., Manila & EDSA, Q.C. Tel # 734-9838, 734-9836<br />
<br />
Dominion Bus Line: New York St., Cubao, Q.C. Tel # 731-4180, 741-4146<br />
<br />
Partas Bus Company: Aurora Blvd., Q.C. Tel. # 725-7303, 724-9820<br />
<br />
Maria de Leon Transit: Dapitan cor. Gelinos Sts., Sampaloc, Manila Tel # 731-4907Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0Zamora, Vigan City, Philippines17.57595737307669 120.382690429687517.091543873076692 119.7509764296875 18.060370873076689 121.0144044296875tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-38885073407110104562010-07-18T23:52:00.000+08:002010-07-19T01:29:06.960+08:00Squinting Through The Sunshine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3d81AvSOl7wceJie9FgRUzy8tPvSrW28zcLF8S8WJCXzTbgSmbcl7OUQJFXzVGYxfWUppGyaN3XUuJsypKk6xODkuWP3tqzPj6hjpY9G9o7FbpQ3l0kP4RPbLlmygXxDVgvUBq0z9lrqd/s1600/9135_1268004179602_1214744218_30876750_5800840_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3d81AvSOl7wceJie9FgRUzy8tPvSrW28zcLF8S8WJCXzTbgSmbcl7OUQJFXzVGYxfWUppGyaN3XUuJsypKk6xODkuWP3tqzPj6hjpY9G9o7FbpQ3l0kP4RPbLlmygXxDVgvUBq0z9lrqd/s320/9135_1268004179602_1214744218_30876750_5800840_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495275631348443586" /></a><br /><br /><br />As the rainy season officially arrived with a splash, I watched the last days of fun and vacation season come to an end. I let summer pass me by, but in my mind,I remember my days of sheer happiness in the beach with nary a care to the sunburn that will ensue; the times I've spent with friends and family traveling and picnicking; <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6hqCERLQ0kBXLLfvSD_uSho90d8f7wrADf8oI-KXkvKMAtlCUxbRL1Xn8__w9nIiNyBLLxcqbaudj19ElSoFr9_2nzxJBCl3qer-HKbgro-WREZtWTVBIEWSWzx4D-2EHfYdt8gJAT0a/s1600/DSC_7996.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6hqCERLQ0kBXLLfvSD_uSho90d8f7wrADf8oI-KXkvKMAtlCUxbRL1Xn8__w9nIiNyBLLxcqbaudj19ElSoFr9_2nzxJBCl3qer-HKbgro-WREZtWTVBIEWSWzx4D-2EHfYdt8gJAT0a/s320/DSC_7996.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495277699817427794" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvv2rxWT8P1h8isaFi-J9uiFr047KAjwDRKXQZAtFYvinSzB8KbEk7uqj77EuQapkH8m4AtYuxfwk0ONe8W43tUhX_ums15c0jMj6rXsHX2WBVIadK1fFUuENpiQL4Yq_APNfObs8htoGg/s1600/DSC00128.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvv2rxWT8P1h8isaFi-J9uiFr047KAjwDRKXQZAtFYvinSzB8KbEk7uqj77EuQapkH8m4AtYuxfwk0ONe8W43tUhX_ums15c0jMj6rXsHX2WBVIadK1fFUuENpiQL4Yq_APNfObs8htoGg/s320/DSC00128.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495290079085351026" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />the feel of the wind blowing through my hair as I journey to some off-the-beaten path;<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdDRaunQCvc_6oPDrF-tCB0mZNKumOptZYoplQDImB7zKR-M9n_wyFZ5kmwX8ELUx1mHvRc9qAKsIHN16-m_u2Qh5ScykChghCdeom7aIbYbEmfGXnycCotnQOaI_kEjpVKvNAPYarqwB/s1600/DSC00197.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdDRaunQCvc_6oPDrF-tCB0mZNKumOptZYoplQDImB7zKR-M9n_wyFZ5kmwX8ELUx1mHvRc9qAKsIHN16-m_u2Qh5ScykChghCdeom7aIbYbEmfGXnycCotnQOaI_kEjpVKvNAPYarqwB/s320/DSC00197.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495276270341619650" /></a><br /><br />and the touch of sunshine and sea breeze on my skin--so vivid and real, that I can almost smell the sea, feel the cool water on my feet and hear the waves. Sigh, unfortunately, I had none of those of late. Or at least not yet.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sS1N5zGUv66U8vQg8bCjA16mpjdBkoANdh3G6dzcKoGM_bU3hw3aObodf3dfTB6m4WqrMWUji92FbUYpTstTqQUz1feE4DXZ9UqBn-rfmc_eEx83U8_MmgvM5I2G7MMg78whAwM9UR7M/s1600/9518_142985227236_723052236_3099001_7177665_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sS1N5zGUv66U8vQg8bCjA16mpjdBkoANdh3G6dzcKoGM_bU3hw3aObodf3dfTB6m4WqrMWUji92FbUYpTstTqQUz1feE4DXZ9UqBn-rfmc_eEx83U8_MmgvM5I2G7MMg78whAwM9UR7M/s320/9518_142985227236_723052236_3099001_7177665_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495278944756385762" /></a><br /><br /><br />These images flash through my mind at random hours of the day--right while I'm in the middle of my work, before I fall asleep or as I sit idly in front of my computer surfing through the summer outing pictures of my Facebook friends. My longing for travel intensifies even more when people tell me what wonderful time they had during their recent excursions. Don't get my wrong, I am darn happy for them that they get the chance to do that which I so badly want. <br /><br />I'm just jealous ;) as my crazy mind, who refuses to be tied down to my currently boring and dare I say dangerously normal existence, screams: "I should go there too!!!No! I should be there." <br /><br />Prior commitments have taken precedence over my travel and adventure projects within the last months, thus necessitating me to eject-stop-abandon whatever plans I have that approach anywhere close to going on a trip, having fun and soaking in the beach. Yet being the irrepressible dreamer that I am, the respite from my <span style="font-style:italic;">byahera</span>-mode only made my mind full of thoughts of travel, foodie adventure, and fun escapades. But because I (momentarily) let normalcy have its stupid way so that I'm jerked back to the droning reality of work and studies in the middle of my dreams, I just indulge my hunger for the road and outdoors by drowning myself in travel shows airing at Discovery Channel's Travel and Living Channel. Anthony Bordain, Samantha Brown, Bobby Chin and even the irritatingly chirpy Janet Hsieh became my instant bff's as I build my dreams of perfect getaways. My heart pounds as I ponder on my carefully laid out plans, but at the same time, I keep them safely tucked in my fantasybank until the right moment arrives.<br /><br /><br />Yup, it's all plans, plans, plans...plans as fragile as my gossamer dreams. I try my best to hold my skepticism at bay though--having faith in fate that someday I will have a breather to pursue my one passion that infuses me with zeal for life. One day I will have my time. The place, near or far, is immaterial. I just need to move. Watch out world, I'll be on my way out in no time.Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-5856263765982009952010-02-11T03:03:00.000+08:002012-01-16T01:29:20.398+08:00Road Trip Part II: Scenic Mount Mayon--The Pride of Albay<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0EWzWJfPkoiSq9T5w_VZCVS9RpiRBJCh4BWDbEBT16IgliPftVXvWgUHoGCePwjsEprTJ6tmwFCs9GzwrkQtFB6Fn0c9QtC9qBSblQAEIxjkAIaZ-dAkxwgecfMV_I2Y1aoO3RGl9jAv/s1600-h/DSC_8210.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="350" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436699150186852018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0EWzWJfPkoiSq9T5w_VZCVS9RpiRBJCh4BWDbEBT16IgliPftVXvWgUHoGCePwjsEprTJ6tmwFCs9GzwrkQtFB6Fn0c9QtC9qBSblQAEIxjkAIaZ-dAkxwgecfMV_I2Y1aoO3RGl9jAv/s320/DSC_8210.JPG" style="display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" width="320" /></a><br />
<b>The Imposing Beauty of a Near-Perfect Cone: Mayon Volcano of Albay</b>
<br />
<br />
Just a few months back, <b>Mount Mayon</b> stole the headlines once again. The impending eruption, which fortunately did not materialize, gave many of the residents living near the volcano a scare...but promised tourists and sightseers a view like no other. Thus, despite the clear danger of being near a temperamental beauty that is Mount Mayon, at a time when it was about to erupt no less, people still could not resist to be awed by its sight. I didn't witness this near-eruption stage save on TV, but decided nonetheless to share my Mount Mayon sight-seeing trip not too long ago.<br />
<br />
Mount Mayon is the queen of volcanoes in the Philippines. Not only does it have an attitude--not a single decade has passed in my entire lifetime that the volcano did not act up, spew ashes, shake the earth, cough out molten rocks and force people to evacuate--it is also, above all, a sight to behold.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Yez99NmKh7r9sBwIoUdWp5no5wYxttE0IbTp8N9ji0VSS9NXg-rJ1wA0uOoDfyBwuKWb9-hgqlG8ryUQVt_BKE61-MifGMFvOXgOsm1ISvdBy0bnBJ8qzcoTugfyMiVuYKPo2sRwQcC5/s1600-h/DSC_8253.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436695638636331378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Yez99NmKh7r9sBwIoUdWp5no5wYxttE0IbTp8N9ji0VSS9NXg-rJ1wA0uOoDfyBwuKWb9-hgqlG8ryUQVt_BKE61-MifGMFvOXgOsm1ISvdBy0bnBJ8qzcoTugfyMiVuYKPo2sRwQcC5/s320/DSC_8253.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Mount Mayon is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, but more than that, it is famous for its shape of an almost-perfect cone. The name "Mayon" is said to have come from the word <span style="font-style: italic;"><b>magayon</b></span>, which in the Bicol dialect means "beautiful". Folktales have it that there was once a tribal princess named <span style="font-style: italic;">Daragang Magayon</span> (beautiful lady) whose beauty attracted a suitor. The two fell madly in love with each other but the man,however, came from a different tribe and their inter-tribal marriage was greatly met with oppositions. The rosy love affair ended in the early demise of the lovers when, due to war that broke out between their tribes, the ala-Romeo and Juliet couple decided to end their lives. Hence, upon the tomb of Daragang Magayon emerged the volcano now known as Mount Mayon. <br />
<br />
So that is the folklore behind the Mount Mayon--with an additional oomph on my part--and before I get carried away with further folkstory telling, here is the story of our adventure =)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQpe4_1cDzHdeIUzCSAQW3eyMMFfX5-2Qi0DzUbniCUIhLwoUhGbnmEUWkokQv3aRzxc7IXdVaGOEQNtor1blET7UBT6Y7UWwzIQTr3n1r2nifuN13jdoqU_7QXqzh3ihoLfFUZimVIKH/s1600-h/DSC_8251.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436733992617002690" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQpe4_1cDzHdeIUzCSAQW3eyMMFfX5-2Qi0DzUbniCUIhLwoUhGbnmEUWkokQv3aRzxc7IXdVaGOEQNtor1blET7UBT6Y7UWwzIQTr3n1r2nifuN13jdoqU_7QXqzh3ihoLfFUZimVIKH/s320/DSC_8251.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Per my previous post, our group (Don, Von, Johann, Mel, Kath and moi, byahera) went to Sorsogon to explore <a href="http://lifeonthehappylane.blogspot.com/2009/08/paguriran-island-amazing-discovery-at.html">Paguriran</a> Island (pls. refer to previous post). On the way there and back, we decided to drop by at some of the tourist spots in Albay for a good view of Mt. Mayon. <b>Albay</b> is one of the provinces of <b>Region V</b> or the Bicol Region, which is around 500 kilometers away from Manila. It is adjacent to Camarines Sur and Sorsogon and can be reached by bus or by airplane, and lately, by train. Travel time for bus transpo is around 12 hours and for plane, 50 minutes. Fare for airconditioned buses ranges from Php 700 to a little over Php 1000, while that for airplane varies according to season and booking time. Major airline companies offer daily flights to Legazpi City, Albay's capital, and travelers will be wise to wait for those occasional promo flights :)
For the more cash-strapped, there is the option of non-airconditioned or ordinary bus in which fare is only Php350 to 500. Anyhoo, the latest news is that the PNR (Philippine National Railway) is already catering trips to Albay on a daily basis, but only up to Ligao City which is still around 1 hr away from Legazpi. The newly revamped <i>Bicol Express</i> trains look quite good for a twelve-hour trip. There are aircon sleeper cabins which could be quite comfy @ prices comparable with that of buses. Plus, it's clean. So enjoy your trip! :)<br />
<br />
Anyways, our first stop was the <b>Cagsawa Ruins</b>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgegg9IwJhyVpwz1O2VjJMHnNAd380hh2SK0F1yyKY1khvVKZqOXHkf33KDeZhHiJXcBtkHXYeGXNztgTDeJfiEqFwddpLo7Epu6utpZ0ghhidyFW3AW9IojeDFcNpz7-3DGbwa50kYLHaI/s1600-h/DSC03784.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436702303760489842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgegg9IwJhyVpwz1O2VjJMHnNAd380hh2SK0F1yyKY1khvVKZqOXHkf33KDeZhHiJXcBtkHXYeGXNztgTDeJfiEqFwddpLo7Epu6utpZ0ghhidyFW3AW9IojeDFcNpz7-3DGbwa50kYLHaI/s320/DSC03784.JPG" style="display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
The people, which you can see in the picture donned in colorful costumes, are not a regular part of the scenery though. We were just lucky to be there just when these groups of students were shooting for a television program. Entrance fee is Php 10.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGK7kmMQCv9ihxDTZaqE-Bn1SCstoyJu8aYCHzNEIo5HO-zcHw0D5xdtOr2qQeiIA3o5JAN-xovJJ_L8KTip6cEePw17ZF0jzYdfbrCWmhPLLpz-y_TZJyE13l4eqJI3-g8EL9qr5rmgbc/s1600-h/DSC_7822.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436704488644889602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGK7kmMQCv9ihxDTZaqE-Bn1SCstoyJu8aYCHzNEIo5HO-zcHw0D5xdtOr2qQeiIA3o5JAN-xovJJ_L8KTip6cEePw17ZF0jzYdfbrCWmhPLLpz-y_TZJyE13l4eqJI3-g8EL9qr5rmgbc/s320/DSC_7822.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 450px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 350px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xb6etTefeQHTVaFi8iTMRZXQvXGVs4QedpxVSEXGZcgZwCvumf3TRIUSJdWxiPk_E79r4TNpFbmv2acqSxCsu37vVtpl-G5wDV2Y_7OldKNIzA5IJNPeGmiP51Aj71Is_kaE9tAv7Vm6/s1600-h/DSC03787.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436705597751949538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xb6etTefeQHTVaFi8iTMRZXQvXGVs4QedpxVSEXGZcgZwCvumf3TRIUSJdWxiPk_E79r4TNpFbmv2acqSxCsu37vVtpl-G5wDV2Y_7OldKNIzA5IJNPeGmiP51Aj71Is_kaE9tAv7Vm6/s320/DSC03787.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 450px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 350px;" /></a><br />
<br />
When the volcano had a major eruption in 1814, the people of Cagsawa, Daraga sought refuge inside the Cagsawa Church believing that they would be safe inside. They stayed and locked themselves in until the church itself was engulfed by the smoldering lava. Only the bell tower survived the catastrophe; it now stands as a marker of that fateful eruption. The bell tower is an oft-visited tourist destination in Albay, as it serves as a reminder of the destructive wrath of the beautiful volcano.<br />
<br />
On our way home from Paguriran, Sorsogon, we dropped by at <b>Daraga Church</b>. I have always known Daraga Church as the church in a hill due to its elevated location. The view and the ambiance was fantastic. Unfortunately, we were not able to go inside even for a brief moment of prayer, as we were not dressed appropriately having just been from a beach outing. All the same, we satisfied our photograph-manic tendencies by taking dozens of pictures of ourselves in every angle imaginable.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iWQzperBCXmmv7hmMR3teO5nrbifWPycpKafwb3UlDqCIlimLAJ5LNaeBVosMqA7oZQC6OFAoYTvjo6fmWGOWxdtnEKW2Blhf0XAMFoR_31_KN0I110WKFBGI-Ot-o0sriN3SGu5eN4b/s1600-h/DSC_8189.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436720053455386658" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iWQzperBCXmmv7hmMR3teO5nrbifWPycpKafwb3UlDqCIlimLAJ5LNaeBVosMqA7oZQC6OFAoYTvjo6fmWGOWxdtnEKW2Blhf0XAMFoR_31_KN0I110WKFBGI-Ot-o0sriN3SGu5eN4b/s320/DSC_8189.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2Z-MuWrHJZitL0cMcM2y76nUibxOimP4dHTjG9HIzIzTrA34c-6C7DobyuyoajpgWZgT7O04MxvTnDfKkTs7sHPIE4IKbscyGc1oupp4xYFhiVOxNQHj-Wjm6l1nwh5pFxv8qkOKgN9e/s1600-h/DSC_8199.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436731467455373506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2Z-MuWrHJZitL0cMcM2y76nUibxOimP4dHTjG9HIzIzTrA34c-6C7DobyuyoajpgWZgT7O04MxvTnDfKkTs7sHPIE4IKbscyGc1oupp4xYFhiVOxNQHj-Wjm6l1nwh5pFxv8qkOKgN9e/s320/DSC_8199.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
To cap our long but fun trip, we stopped at <b>Lignon Hill </b>out of curiosity for this newly developed place. We have our own vehicle so we were spared from the long and seemingly tiring hike. Yet on second thoughts, it may had been fun to walk the winding and sloping road in the company of crazy friends. My estimate is that it would take around 30 to 40 minutes to reach the zenith of the place--and a lot of huffing and puffing on my part.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwiPBp7ffktDqZTSUuhlQkgcLF57wRbEGIoPI_eiYiKx6kYy9swVas6nONZeOwGfW_EAinevCEwAsVW-IwNHcxm8RY9Ln2JiC2VmVk1-NM0p19iubt-JXBHS6cw2aaVsMjGqtjR2ek_-J/s1600-h/DSC_8209.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436725571982139986" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwiPBp7ffktDqZTSUuhlQkgcLF57wRbEGIoPI_eiYiKx6kYy9swVas6nONZeOwGfW_EAinevCEwAsVW-IwNHcxm8RY9Ln2JiC2VmVk1-NM0p19iubt-JXBHS6cw2aaVsMjGqtjR2ek_-J/s320/DSC_8209.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 360px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Lignon Hill</b> is a hill--as its name implies--directly opposite the Mount Mayon. I found out that the place, which is an observatory park, just began its operations in 2008. It is quite successful already, with its main attraction being the unobstructed view of the Mayon volcano on one side, and of Legazpi City on the other side. While the view of the volcano is already breathtaking as it is, the view of downtown Legazpi is equally picturesque especially at night time. In addition, the park offers different recreational activities, such as a zip line for Php 250 and all-terrain vehicles. We did not try any of those because, not admitting that we are afraid of heights :), we were busy with--what else???--taking pictures!! The voluminous number of shots stacked in the memory card of Don's camera silently speaks for our happy picture-taking spree. No regrets that we impulsively included Lignon hill in our itinerary.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3_aZMj3bXbWVZKO9w8ko2jq8BnS8542TJFSUAaezRsDaLBr2GkulSQjvZCyIuYQFNTJXrR-NhzCZ27u9nv4gMIXc3w46K7KkCoSTQq69_qfL5HtUEcJPbBeK2EDs_ukJFUvX51Oh5ifO/s1600-h/DSC_8216.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436726424379667890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3_aZMj3bXbWVZKO9w8ko2jq8BnS8542TJFSUAaezRsDaLBr2GkulSQjvZCyIuYQFNTJXrR-NhzCZ27u9nv4gMIXc3w46K7KkCoSTQq69_qfL5HtUEcJPbBeK2EDs_ukJFUvX51Oh5ifO/s320/DSC_8216.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 450px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 350px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEFqsV-d5FZ7k5GtAXDFIZ8-dvHZauEKKb-LL9iu5ymxcFcLzLuAvZoi2tqWy37J9kSXj-bX3dsUavK6B3JUzdjfEpc4_5zhtzv4gKMpM83QrtxGMVH2H-cYzcdDuKOQ8xz84PAyCs2i1S/s1600-h/DSC_8219.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436731773745321154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEFqsV-d5FZ7k5GtAXDFIZ8-dvHZauEKKb-LL9iu5ymxcFcLzLuAvZoi2tqWy37J9kSXj-bX3dsUavK6B3JUzdjfEpc4_5zhtzv4gKMpM83QrtxGMVH2H-cYzcdDuKOQ8xz84PAyCs2i1S/s320/DSC_8219.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-tLDDig2_VwevqQsf6n1_2WWWyubeXQBwntuvt5rDESK09AsUbdeUbKtbbLHrYjuUf2fEo7JZT22hpGMs22uB4aiWIamKrO242V0H0JqrZCggAYuvPje0APHrj_FA4dIWraf3SpNl0rJR/s1600-h/DSC_8245.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436732143442239634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-tLDDig2_VwevqQsf6n1_2WWWyubeXQBwntuvt5rDESK09AsUbdeUbKtbbLHrYjuUf2fEo7JZT22hpGMs22uB4aiWIamKrO242V0H0JqrZCggAYuvPje0APHrj_FA4dIWraf3SpNl0rJR/s320/DSC_8245.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaF5stE1xYvMNqkpOD54YKfG-oZUxqWM08F6nvKZNyd7PsdlgxMNAgPXZTUfWFrja-gOe9gSW5ot0eCwZj8Kg9O-yAVQInjoNP0qyKXsLz8HByjO8N-prZRQi4TlW5u99Yv9Is-bP3juLH/s1600-h/DSC_8229.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436726813618680514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaF5stE1xYvMNqkpOD54YKfG-oZUxqWM08F6nvKZNyd7PsdlgxMNAgPXZTUfWFrja-gOe9gSW5ot0eCwZj8Kg9O-yAVQInjoNP0qyKXsLz8HByjO8N-prZRQi4TlW5u99Yv9Is-bP3juLH/s320/DSC_8229.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2Hj_qoW8znxp9GbEGnJpGv2-u6PTe9_UTsdZAWdVVp6vTwpvBYbt6m3zBNSrEAAT215MD2KRePUejNT4umWEJ9AAhKB_-g48jUAq8yYMTQHIK5J66otEgzxkMbABRx_2xS5rQ2Ldv9f-/s1600-h/DSC_8237.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436733170693586690" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2Hj_qoW8znxp9GbEGnJpGv2-u6PTe9_UTsdZAWdVVp6vTwpvBYbt6m3zBNSrEAAT215MD2KRePUejNT4umWEJ9AAhKB_-g48jUAq8yYMTQHIK5J66otEgzxkMbABRx_2xS5rQ2Ldv9f-/s320/DSC_8237.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbG0eTkkST8UYyT_YBi0EBOilkq0pcXNFPeJliKkOnjZoC7QmEyyzc5MaFRKOhNuD1khInEQtDqiy9IFJWXBpAZigQhqDGcbceRhwodP75hSrFPZzmTdQFg_6gTehsBbWeSrMVGhDQjNp/s1600-h/DSC_8240.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436733495330588162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbG0eTkkST8UYyT_YBi0EBOilkq0pcXNFPeJliKkOnjZoC7QmEyyzc5MaFRKOhNuD1khInEQtDqiy9IFJWXBpAZigQhqDGcbceRhwodP75hSrFPZzmTdQFg_6gTehsBbWeSrMVGhDQjNp/s320/DSC_8240.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7xAw5b9biDkyyqi_2VSP-U6-6nu0iPq8d7DAKVGX5B3GSz57XzDf78OKdoftjdNch7GFZQixt6g19rpfbfMbLr924rjkK_HCvglRqHOPNHrMqetxvwxceqzldkcPGFUK4v21MN0Qnb8p/s1600-h/DSC_8266.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436727370125951298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7xAw5b9biDkyyqi_2VSP-U6-6nu0iPq8d7DAKVGX5B3GSz57XzDf78OKdoftjdNch7GFZQixt6g19rpfbfMbLr924rjkK_HCvglRqHOPNHrMqetxvwxceqzldkcPGFUK4v21MN0Qnb8p/s320/DSC_8266.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPFe5TD5U3GozrKWKd8p8AgikNKThHs23NRPH6C1dnHSAPQFIeHyoEhi7HWk03mLghAzOdxfkxK9Sbb4aL0vF9xwRxAS6rx5WWDCaTFNW2aB9EYcQeQmayvq68F7m2pI9UNk6i7DFiXQJW/s1600-h/DSC_8261.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436732807881175602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPFe5TD5U3GozrKWKd8p8AgikNKThHs23NRPH6C1dnHSAPQFIeHyoEhi7HWk03mLghAzOdxfkxK9Sbb4aL0vF9xwRxAS6rx5WWDCaTFNW2aB9EYcQeQmayvq68F7m2pI9UNk6i7DFiXQJW/s320/DSC_8261.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 450px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Not far from the hill is the Albay Wildpark and Recreation, but we decided against going there since it was already dark and we still have to find a place to stay. So after buying our dinner at one of the ubiquitous chicken rotisseries in Legazpi, we scouted for a hotel or resort. Don suggested that we spend the night in a resort lest anyone not yet satisfied with the Paguriran outing still wants to swim. We found this place in Daraga (I forgot the name)--a resort, nothing extraordinary--which charges P1200 for a 12-hour stay. Good thing that there were five of us, sans Johann, to share this price. We were also super tired anyway that after chowing down our dinner of roasted chicken, lots of leftover rice, soft drinks and banana, and after a warm bath, we all immediately fell into deep slumber.Tired and squeezed in the queen-size bed shared with mel and von, I was happy nonetheless with the memories stored in my travel memory bank. Early the following day, we drove home, eager to finally have some decent rest and to share our adventure to anyone who's willing to listen <br />
<br />
LEGAZPI/MAYON ADVENTURE HOW TO'S:<br />
<br />
1. Ride a bus going to Legazpi City. Expect the trip to last for 12 hours more or less. You can stave off boredom by enjoying the countryside scenery (for day trip) or catching some sleep. Also prepare for a bumpy ride in some parts of the journey. One-way fare could range from Php 700 to Php 1000. If you travel by plane, it would be wise to book early. Travel time by plane only takes 50 minutes. Almost every major local airline cater daily flights to Legazpi City. <br />
<br />
2. Transportation around Legazpi City and other areas of Albay is relatively cheap. The standard fare of Php 7 applies. However, be wary of tricycle drivers since they are ready to bleed every cent out of you. If you want to ride a tricycle, be smart and haggle. I heard that there are taxis already. The rate is presumably the same with Manila rate.<br />
<br />
3. There are many hotels in Legazpi City, such as the Alicia Hotel, Hotel Casablanca, Legazpi Tourist Inn, Magayon Hotel, Albay Hotel and others. P2,000 is usually more than enough for a double room and a breakfast. Budget travelers, however,would be delighted with the room rates of Sampaguita Tourist Inn, which could go as low as Php 600 for an air-conditioned room (twin sharing) and Php 300 for fan room.<br />
<br />
4. Dining places are all over. There are the staple Jollibee, McDonald's, Chowking and Greenwich, but if you want a taste of Bicolano fast food, don't miss Bigg's Restaurant. This is the largest food chain in the Bicol region (yup! with more franchises than Jollibee)--food is great and at a reasonable price. Embarcadero is the new lifestyle hub in the city where you can find a number of restaurants and retail stores, among others. <br />
<br />
5. Whet your appetite with the famous Bicol express! Try also the laing or <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">natong</span></span> and pinangat, which are known Bicolano dishes.<br />
<br />
<br />
6. Albay is famous for native handicrafts made of abaca, such as bags, purse and slippers. These are perfect pasalubongs! Also, don't forget to try and bring some candied pili nuts to your family, friends and co-workers :)<br />
<br />
<br />
7. Lastly, relax and enjoy. After all, this is what it's all about.Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-10910033289201366172009-08-25T10:47:00.000+08:002012-01-16T02:51:31.319+08:00Paguriran Island: An Amazing Discovery at Sorsogon<span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Paguriran Island</span> confirmed that there is still so much to discover around the Bicol area--and what a wonderful discovery it was!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9ATj5vvrT1-UzImw2beETax1B6cVY-kM1HMdSJ4AXlgMK-PpgFsoQYTmXia05zO4lYmFCbaTUaxQpwlKueMP47NxaGRdIDF_aFymodNsWzk5crpk0GujCd9fcAa0co_bAfSn74-1Jque/s1600-h/DSC_7928.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9ATj5vvrT1-UzImw2beETax1B6cVY-kM1HMdSJ4AXlgMK-PpgFsoQYTmXia05zO4lYmFCbaTUaxQpwlKueMP47NxaGRdIDF_aFymodNsWzk5crpk0GujCd9fcAa0co_bAfSn74-1Jque/s320/DSC_7928.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373733547985500418" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Paguriran Island<br /><br /><br />It was one of those spur-of-the-moment events when I just go ahead and simply do whatever I wanna do. With all my deadlines finished and the opening of classes just a few days away, I wanted to maximize the remaining days I have as a beach goddess even if summer has officially ended and June--the month of rain and opening of classes--reared its ugly head. I came across Paguriran Island during my Internet search for new<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>travel destinations, and I knew that very instant that I want to go there. The soonest the better.<br /><br />Apparently, wanderlust can be infectious and I immediately influenced my friend Melody to come also. In no time, Von, Don, Kath and Johann are with us as well. </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" >Wow, it was a childhood friends reunion of some sort hehe. </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" >Throwing caution to the wind and believing in fate's benevolence that everything will turn out fine, we all </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" > happily settled in our friend's vehicle, excited to head to an island we've never heard of before and with only a vague idea of where it is or how to go there. I guess that's part of the beauty of Paguriran; it is so mysterious.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Trip</span><br /><br />Anyways, it was afternoon already when we left Naga City, expecting to arrive at Sorsogon by nightfall. We made some stops at Albay to enjoy the beauty of Mount Mayon, the world's near-perfect cone volcano. Sigghhh, what a marvelous view!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlG1B4abfZi3KbQGtauNGAXwE9egBt31y4ODxdEdRhMjR0rKxwSxUuSfekbskfF8Gp3_Wo7GcDK3UGznX9SlzgjCY_CVvHPrSK1M8qoVNE-hJF9KMhnk7TchKzARNH41a3mY9BDLI2ptA/s1600-h/DSC03889.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlG1B4abfZi3KbQGtauNGAXwE9egBt31y4ODxdEdRhMjR0rKxwSxUuSfekbskfF8Gp3_Wo7GcDK3UGznX9SlzgjCY_CVvHPrSK1M8qoVNE-hJF9KMhnk7TchKzARNH41a3mY9BDLI2ptA/s320/DSC03889.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373736662776758738" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Mayon Volcano<br /><br /><br />And then we went on to pick-up Johann in Daraga, Albay. Indeed by nightfall we were already in Sorsogon, six hungry (did I also say grimy?) backpackers that we were. We gobbled our dinner at Chow King Sorsogon and of course, let our driver Manong Von (hehehe) rest for a while, and then proceeded to search for the direction of Bacon, Sorsogon. From Bacon, we intended to go to Paguriran, which is alleged to be at the very end of the road. We expected a long drive, hence decided to spend the night at Bacon to have hours of soothing sleep first.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh34rH2j_-0Hbw_lfFPV7pAYirQEUYWFAuYmJ40RIG-IVhrhvjIw4SkHnaglHchsyX-FHXr3fvilEVMrhIWDhEtzXyCEUSVatjoIQ7RZHRcKQpTdkSyJPdwSt1vxVYlDGb1DAQuqk9xOP-x/s1600-h/DSC03798.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh34rH2j_-0Hbw_lfFPV7pAYirQEUYWFAuYmJ40RIG-IVhrhvjIw4SkHnaglHchsyX-FHXr3fvilEVMrhIWDhEtzXyCEUSVatjoIQ7RZHRcKQpTdkSyJPdwSt1vxVYlDGb1DAQuqk9xOP-x/s320/DSC03798.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373743245364679346" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Finally...Sorsogon...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisy20gceaLrbugI3jE-_F2VHwkeUc3BKYkvHdrABvQvUYvXlpZozIi3dJg3oGag4mxOLMytkfBmYMK6ZYxBl1oaIE0pL9U1eBMoJ4aougoYvnqp7BXxeORmmBK7BihBzyz788qRZoPse9c/s1600-h/1_831813631l.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisy20gceaLrbugI3jE-_F2VHwkeUc3BKYkvHdrABvQvUYvXlpZozIi3dJg3oGag4mxOLMytkfBmYMK6ZYxBl1oaIE0pL9U1eBMoJ4aougoYvnqp7BXxeORmmBK7BihBzyz788qRZoPse9c/s320/1_831813631l.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373743252793697842" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Dinner time :)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Arrival at Bacon</span><br /><br />Fortunately, we easily found Bacon and went to check in at the New Sea Breeze Resort. We made some negotiations as regards the price, and came to settle for P1300 for all of us--plus the use of videoke, which made me very, very happy :) You might expect that we would rest our tired bodies right away, but we didn't want to waste hours of our precious time together so we decided to have some good time first, something we accomplished with help of Bar Vodka and Gin. After a couple of shots, our shining videoke voices can be heard puncturing the midnight peace of the already sleeping village. Now we understand why there's a municipal order in Bacon banning videoke/karaoke singing after 11 pm. It's a very peaceful, rustic coastal town indeed.<br /><br />The morning at Bacon is even more peaceful. As we prepared for our trip to Paguriran, I can't help but notice the beautiful beach few meters away from our room. There were a number of people having their early morning dip, just when the heat of the sun is not yet scorching.<br /><br /><br /></span><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh042EizdcXEYL3Ecl3ueA4I20AZcX2ZrAMKRdO8B5Bn9aClanI3qQUkEh13L8mEHAh9Vq18sqD4ohUMgIZR5BlNLmhhIle6I8J5wZTQzjcbJH5d-dponA3LZIWyOf7n4F7NjFM3ajdMsIj/s1600-h/DSC03833.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh042EizdcXEYL3Ecl3ueA4I20AZcX2ZrAMKRdO8B5Bn9aClanI3qQUkEh13L8mEHAh9Vq18sqD4ohUMgIZR5BlNLmhhIle6I8J5wZTQzjcbJH5d-dponA3LZIWyOf7n4F7NjFM3ajdMsIj/s320/DSC03833.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373748980584824514" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA9LKwZuQrj1jtC2M8_5t7wuXsXvqHzXc5VlSxDT362uuxkQpaJ5sR-o5tFm-SqCv2N8jRXR7-WHJkb3Pu5_zs45xdLZZ307cabAB7ByBmVvXPHzLhGPXwU1qY3BFsC6zof060ywfOVboR/s1600-h/DSC_7892.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA9LKwZuQrj1jtC2M8_5t7wuXsXvqHzXc5VlSxDT362uuxkQpaJ5sR-o5tFm-SqCv2N8jRXR7-WHJkb3Pu5_zs45xdLZZ307cabAB7ByBmVvXPHzLhGPXwU1qY3BFsC6zof060ywfOVboR/s320/DSC_7892.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373748969733668322" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Bacon Beach<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sGo9M-Ki_hr5aw1p0_2vp3u6D4UdZZBw329bovAnCvKdmrqg9wngWsl7RzzOoYLhELeR7JmS_skebTwwUniAZO0x3N2pzwV_VK6GF1mAZ_HNQLE1KXCqpckNuvJEOpeAr7mosUZSJVOp/s1600-h/DSC03831.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sGo9M-Ki_hr5aw1p0_2vp3u6D4UdZZBw329bovAnCvKdmrqg9wngWsl7RzzOoYLhELeR7JmS_skebTwwUniAZO0x3N2pzwV_VK6GF1mAZ_HNQLE1KXCqpckNuvJEOpeAr7mosUZSJVOp/s320/DSC03831.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374660604925343170" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" >Busy with the food preparations</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" >We ate a hearty breakfast of tuna with egg and rice, cooked by the very industrious Don, Von and Johann, who also prepared the food we're going to eat for our lunch--grilled yellow fin tuna and <span style="font-style: italic;">liempo</span>. And while they were busy cooking, there was nothing much left for us princesses to do but wait. So,Melody, Kath and moi spent our remaining time wisely by prepping up, lying in bed, watching TV and taking pictures of ourselves. After all the preparations, we paid the resort and headed for the road. </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br /></span>Yup, Paguriran Island here we come.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fun, fun, fun!<br /><br /></span><br />Far from the long and tiring drive we expected, it took us only a little over thirty minutes to reach the location. Thanks, in part, to the driving dexterity of our Manong driver Von, the smooth road--which is surprising for a country road--and the very cooperative weather. This is it, the moment of judgment. My heart was pumping. I was anxious whether they would like the place or not. But all my worries dissipated when I saw the smiles. Everyone appeared to be simply happy to spend the day in a faraway island with a beautiful view. :)<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6qDVJWSVfTGU7fE1LIEcQQ5GJZeWCx5tWqTDh0AUHpmgG6b2QEoi_qnQUyC8tvwDlkaMWdy2772vAThq4HbFqCw-mHdqQpAaJKRxjQkvl55rQ5jgMvNhncjdwswmO7krkeHKJMLF77N6B/s1600-h/DSC_7915.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6qDVJWSVfTGU7fE1LIEcQQ5GJZeWCx5tWqTDh0AUHpmgG6b2QEoi_qnQUyC8tvwDlkaMWdy2772vAThq4HbFqCw-mHdqQpAaJKRxjQkvl55rQ5jgMvNhncjdwswmO7krkeHKJMLF77N6B/s320/DSC_7915.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373773755861796402" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Island and Boat<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpS6sPt4jF_Fh2F_Uncu_ILKZhkn62sM1wVEzSPnSLBvfA-V5M7xXOwCYCwph-YuYaaQ7rfc3qLd_YmqWzG56QJf4rbokON6IiZjSBFaruegzGT1VHMoju85bdDFn5E1YvCaxHuvcMdsXm/s1600-h/DSC_7954.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpS6sPt4jF_Fh2F_Uncu_ILKZhkn62sM1wVEzSPnSLBvfA-V5M7xXOwCYCwph-YuYaaQ7rfc3qLd_YmqWzG56QJf4rbokON6IiZjSBFaruegzGT1VHMoju85bdDFn5E1YvCaxHuvcMdsXm/s320/DSC_7954.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373940167485259858" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzKeCiMEG3pWLYz2NnKFD55evPT5aNn78KGuBDzEWKXhZtzimRR2yAirKysO3dFf0YFOIPobpTWmRjhZnNYf579LuLDNdKObD87flNXoTevdFmyBVNHe2mDyJ9QFE7Dkc9DtARTavOqaX/s1600-h/DSC_7913.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzKeCiMEG3pWLYz2NnKFD55evPT5aNn78KGuBDzEWKXhZtzimRR2yAirKysO3dFf0YFOIPobpTWmRjhZnNYf579LuLDNdKObD87flNXoTevdFmyBVNHe2mDyJ9QFE7Dkc9DtARTavOqaX/s320/DSC_7913.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373773752498053458" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The Beach<br /><br />My friend Don got all shutter-happy and started clicking away with his camera. After posing for a number of shots and getting ourselves comfy in the native cottage, we got ready to wade several meters through the water from the beach going to the island. The water is crystal clear and warm, and is only waist-deep so it was not really hard to walk. We had to be very careful though, as there are sharp corals and rocks that could cut the skin. One of my friends scraped his knee in a coral, but apparently nothing--not even the bleeding wound--could keep him from having fun!<br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIa86lR4lJnuM0VXhxroUAAc2KuNcsNWbbj1izYCTJAyk8gmXjmK2hPdHqmecC6O3v2ZVWmHwG7bkPKJ-C5itt0OKTLJurvf0yKM6rvxjhnkVyhFV6Ndt9CqTnO1VFWSYp94i9113r8Ok/s1600-h/DSC_8006.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIa86lR4lJnuM0VXhxroUAAc2KuNcsNWbbj1izYCTJAyk8gmXjmK2hPdHqmecC6O3v2ZVWmHwG7bkPKJ-C5itt0OKTLJurvf0yKM6rvxjhnkVyhFV6Ndt9CqTnO1VFWSYp94i9113r8Ok/s320/DSC_8006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373733555053915538" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLiybOGm564arjR8YBebwSUyq2hfQ9tfW-szODDwoSGPJHaPGDWf-N3Y9c3vzizA2mMDOF_TQB0KefcUQ0lcQdJzIInBCm_6vjtNK6KSBHTN7QUwlPQq5Iw9qsjcSyQ8U_MHj59riF87r/s1600-h/DSC_8064.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLiybOGm564arjR8YBebwSUyq2hfQ9tfW-szODDwoSGPJHaPGDWf-N3Y9c3vzizA2mMDOF_TQB0KefcUQ0lcQdJzIInBCm_6vjtNK6KSBHTN7QUwlPQq5Iw9qsjcSyQ8U_MHj59riF87r/s320/DSC_8064.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374131991111102562" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" >Inside the Island--a Lagoon</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" >Inside the island is an aquamarine lagoon. Water is generally shallow except in some parts. What is amazing is that it also serves as a habitat to many colorful fishes and other interesting sea creatures that one can only see in aquariums or in National Geographic. Fish-watching kept us busy for some time. </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTiGyAVQBQom7rFYt7lwtojzqMsYvkWmmVH8mFcpe6Xchg2OWQX2k1oIPfNjXzy06IMr7oT9iDL3BZ1Ybt2ogkKw8iJiBEOGa7Fy0jFDVZIRJxwPaLZYr_GFNt0hByF9qdhCUVpUplA3wN/s1600-h/DSC_8069.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTiGyAVQBQom7rFYt7lwtojzqMsYvkWmmVH8mFcpe6Xchg2OWQX2k1oIPfNjXzy06IMr7oT9iDL3BZ1Ybt2ogkKw8iJiBEOGa7Fy0jFDVZIRJxwPaLZYr_GFNt0hByF9qdhCUVpUplA3wN/s320/DSC_8069.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374131997886210562" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00IMEJQknH1yXppH44wbgnectvmUBd547TlOXj908KOQLDioxsI6-vtSP3W40MQ7qFJFwrsi6NOB9MrJifPhNfT6aP_5vXj6dTECEAYPhhgD6G0Sz3A6p-krYShlL1cZm60YR7BCIIjhh/s1600-h/DSC_7997.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00IMEJQknH1yXppH44wbgnectvmUBd547TlOXj908KOQLDioxsI6-vtSP3W40MQ7qFJFwrsi6NOB9MrJifPhNfT6aP_5vXj6dTECEAYPhhgD6G0Sz3A6p-krYShlL1cZm60YR7BCIIjhh/s320/DSC_7997.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374131981333695778" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgiJ7EMzmVbEDecB0pZevkpRY1Q45LYBrfh4DNToThAmmQx7ctchsSyo_oaD4ZjSQ7wPTpOX3UnD2xJpb_UGCDfGe-69MmXmhKiqtQ6z2tfKC4Deq6ijYv63IGcCgTUMzQzbBMb1FbVj7w/s1600-h/DSC_8080.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgiJ7EMzmVbEDecB0pZevkpRY1Q45LYBrfh4DNToThAmmQx7ctchsSyo_oaD4ZjSQ7wPTpOX3UnD2xJpb_UGCDfGe-69MmXmhKiqtQ6z2tfKC4Deq6ijYv63IGcCgTUMzQzbBMb1FbVj7w/s320/DSC_8080.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374132007998938786" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_n_glasCWoJqt3K3GKQmduQRXghI0VO6Sa1LXCaC7tZuHO3-59eH74T6LMHWa6CCrrmDaUndhWKkPkqhCSpWQZWWJ2mA7wwi6XCaihkJ4CxvacLuQDG3cQhXNRc42SbTM1NDvCecpTwx/s1600-h/DSC_7980.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_n_glasCWoJqt3K3GKQmduQRXghI0VO6Sa1LXCaC7tZuHO3-59eH74T6LMHWa6CCrrmDaUndhWKkPkqhCSpWQZWWJ2mA7wwi6XCaihkJ4CxvacLuQDG3cQhXNRc42SbTM1NDvCecpTwx/s320/DSC_7980.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374131974623661554" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" >We spent the hours away swimming, fish-spotting, diving and of course, picture-taking, until we felt our stomachs grumble. I guess we expended so much energy wading through the water, avoiding sharp corals, swimming and posing for photographs</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" >. Also, it was already noontime and we noticed, despite the generous application of sunblock, that our skins already have that reddish tinge indicating the dreaded sunburn (in other countries they call it tan, but in our case it only makes us <span style="font-style: italic;">nog-nog</span>). Hence, </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" >we decided to go back to the beach for lunch.<br /><br />Hungry and excited, we devoured the foods that Don, Von and Johann prepared earlier that morning. Don was barely finished mixing the condiments of <span style="font-style: italic;">toyo+sibuyas+manggang hilaw</span>, we were already diving in with gusto. Expectedly, after lunch, languor kicked in and since it was already low tide and the beach has lost much of its water, most of us decided to take a nap. I slept on the hammock that Don put up while Don slept on the sand (hehe). Kath, Mel and Johann were inside the cottage, snoring. Von, however, was busy taking our pictures in our most unguarded sleeping moments (grrr!).<br /><br />We were supposed to cap our trip with a visit to the Bulusan Crater Lake, which is around 40 kms. away from the city, </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" > and the nearby Palagtoc Falls</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" >. Paguriran itself is around 20 kms from the city. But we were already tired, the adrenaline rush we experienced hours ago also had its corresponding crash. We also thought that driving in an unfamiliar territory might not be the wisest thing to do then. So we decided to put off going to Bulusan--after all, there are other trips to come (hopefully!). We opted to go back to Legaspi City instead, where the famous Mount Mayon is. I hope to write about our Legaspi escapade in my next post.<br /><br />So that's it, my whirlwind adventure with friends to Paguriran Island! :P</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fin.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">How to Go to Paguriran Island (from Manila)</span><br /><br />1) Ride bus to Sorsogon City (travel time around 10 hrs) or plane to Legaspi City, then take a van to Sorsogon.<br /><br />2) Take a jeepney from the City to Bacon, then from Bacon to Paguriran.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tips:</span> There are cottages and resorts all over Bacon. You may negotiate with the price. Seafoods are always fresh, so make sure to try some.<br /></span>Biyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0Sorsogon Diversion Rd, Sorsogon City, Philippines13.054061355346827 123.9491271972656212.930360855346827 123.79119869726563 13.177761855346827 124.10705569726562tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2269020224781534969.post-33706810236147170152009-08-24T03:12:00.002+08:002012-01-16T02:48:58.082+08:00Chilling Out at Caramoan: The D-I-Y Way<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBsAeIBiQhedzNd3rIevUwDpjeBS_LElwLhQ1K4xLPnw3vHF-mGIfBuKB-_4Oba4B-eEwmlf35w1wGdtMzeBpE1-ZhqDxDAZs_Ppeh823ep1MsbJJ45-WGCvJu1DvSXy_Kga8KOF5Aet8G/s1600/24838_111822298835008_100000217142393_256991_2579708_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBsAeIBiQhedzNd3rIevUwDpjeBS_LElwLhQ1K4xLPnw3vHF-mGIfBuKB-_4Oba4B-eEwmlf35w1wGdtMzeBpE1-ZhqDxDAZs_Ppeh823ep1MsbJJ45-WGCvJu1DvSXy_Kga8KOF5Aet8G/s320/24838_111822298835008_100000217142393_256991_2579708_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563971724311694050" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzkucVtjsdYFfqhyphenhyphenhwGDI75fmkg0pqaQLxK_GhirTo2wFVJQJguRzQvOoQHZ3xf3PlxPnE7ZnpA1BT_p10r0F-MXtqMu7dVpoNY_ZMQnSmJq0Og_9Yd85kK-0Hg7yYjvyZisWcp2Ch4qo/s1600/24838_111820342168537_100000217142393_256972_702605_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzkucVtjsdYFfqhyphenhyphenhwGDI75fmkg0pqaQLxK_GhirTo2wFVJQJguRzQvOoQHZ3xf3PlxPnE7ZnpA1BT_p10r0F-MXtqMu7dVpoNY_ZMQnSmJq0Og_9Yd85kK-0Hg7yYjvyZisWcp2Ch4qo/s320/24838_111820342168537_100000217142393_256972_702605_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563950308999152578" /></a><br />(Click on pictures for larger view. Photos courtesy of Kuya Arnold L., Karen B., Kuya Rainier B., and Joann Z. Thanks po!)<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Caramoan Paradise</span></span><br /><br />Imagine tranquility and nature. Picture white sand beaches, rolling hills, fresh sea foods and friendly locals--a cozy escape from the mundane and the busy life. Savor the spirit of travel and adventure all within reach. This is Caramoan.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR9IG2UdEFk8MzK9X4RQGnPUjmZzaN3h32prIGvoO39vpGQvq8ASen8tHlKaSW-QZOa3akJh9HXs59qLKG8B37ulcK1wDzRxCsdeCiCdIklweIf0GlK4ZSnVdDw5CtfuNUJN9zUMQ7rwII/s1600/24838_111822285501676_100000217142393_256988_2751337_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR9IG2UdEFk8MzK9X4RQGnPUjmZzaN3h32prIGvoO39vpGQvq8ASen8tHlKaSW-QZOa3akJh9HXs59qLKG8B37ulcK1wDzRxCsdeCiCdIklweIf0GlK4ZSnVdDw5CtfuNUJN9zUMQ7rwII/s320/24838_111822285501676_100000217142393_256988_2751337_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563951818997844450" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFIa6eVTko0Wwv1fz0HlLmD8qYbB9TG5Y9H5vQQL6x9Ybyjwpp7_c_eM_MVWiSdl8UgpW7KYsLEER3BNTQE7MDO3vfXzFKqxpSdeu8BFe_YdVW-u3LifNl2WFprei7z0GDgQRdNxsvsuw/s1600/1_220770619l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFIa6eVTko0Wwv1fz0HlLmD8qYbB9TG5Y9H5vQQL6x9Ybyjwpp7_c_eM_MVWiSdl8UgpW7KYsLEER3BNTQE7MDO3vfXzFKqxpSdeu8BFe_YdVW-u3LifNl2WFprei7z0GDgQRdNxsvsuw/s320/1_220770619l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563951807956848770" /></a><br /><br />Located at the tip of the Caramoan Peninsula in the Province of Camarines Sur (Bicol Region), the once slow-paced rural fishing town of Caramoan has been bustling with tourism activities of late. The place is touted to be one of the top travel destinations in the Philippines in the recent years and in fact, was catapulted to widespread--and dare I say international--fame after two foreign Survivor Series have been shot in the island--the first one from France and the second, from Israel if I remember correctly. Hence, the island has become a part of the mainstream Pinoy traveler's lingo.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2zDKjt8crcuTMi88iA0PlPKV6E_u6L_bKfJkorYC0gdRzSLXxGR2uSP4COdd8hGcS9pUZ9LPUb6llCIHf28HbpwgX_EpMeSXW9ljbjRUGea5yhVkltytpcVpcGaQ0RENF0hfygPzh4H2U/s1600/24838_111820348835203_100000217142393_256974_491582_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2zDKjt8crcuTMi88iA0PlPKV6E_u6L_bKfJkorYC0gdRzSLXxGR2uSP4COdd8hGcS9pUZ9LPUb6llCIHf28HbpwgX_EpMeSXW9ljbjRUGea5yhVkltytpcVpcGaQ0RENF0hfygPzh4H2U/s320/24838_111820348835203_100000217142393_256974_491582_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563953598293117554" /></a> <br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixXlyMXBgccA-QwTMnXWBDfrmFURU62c1Varv85lfq-Ksp8W-THAhXx1sBZ-rPAgGv9wD_FKv-WdynCC8usc-YO4jPuOUi0YM5rsnDyMXojeOibsqjMzjTSA3BpdZKLkgZ55tIvvTaV75-/s1600/24838_111817888835449_100000217142393_256921_4183181_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixXlyMXBgccA-QwTMnXWBDfrmFURU62c1Varv85lfq-Ksp8W-THAhXx1sBZ-rPAgGv9wD_FKv-WdynCC8usc-YO4jPuOUi0YM5rsnDyMXojeOibsqjMzjTSA3BpdZKLkgZ55tIvvTaV75-/s320/24838_111817888835449_100000217142393_256921_4183181_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563953591853199042" /></a><br /><br />A friend of mine once said that roads seem to be heading to Caramoan nowadays. To me, why wouldn't they? Caramoan offers beautiful white sand beaches, is a wonderful swimming, snorkeling and beach-bumming location and is much nearer from Manila. Before tourism became too commercialized, the place was also dirt cheap. My second trip to Caramoan in 2007 was only under the tight budget of P1000.00 (the first one, virtually free because it was sponsored by a friend). That is from Naga City and there were six of us; for travelers from Manila, it could be a little more costly but not sky-high expensive. Anyways, most tourists who go to Caramoan drop-by at the Camarines Sur Watersports Complex or CWC either before or after their trip, in order to make the most out of their CamSur visit. The CWC is a world-class watersports park for wakeboarding, waterskiing, wakeskating and other water sports. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicb9bBUQY3xAKhbfQ_WiQp2mPMRoBtQDuLFalB0sUT75DmO5ZF5ficOF5RZcOh5IvGg6JjXuxCtyCoOrPQpUVBYZbQkAZPUq3JGEd8UZBuh4-pjkBOW6tCB95-PR71niPutLERM6WwRkLB/s1600/DSC00312.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicb9bBUQY3xAKhbfQ_WiQp2mPMRoBtQDuLFalB0sUT75DmO5ZF5ficOF5RZcOh5IvGg6JjXuxCtyCoOrPQpUVBYZbQkAZPUq3JGEd8UZBuh4-pjkBOW6tCB95-PR71niPutLERM6WwRkLB/s320/DSC00312.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563957154531710450" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">A Splashy Ride: On Board the "Harry"</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fB7ehEnU0lc2NPSbVgq9ocn3I5z9DP4mwE57xjErg-mRklMateZ7OLkvjTeDq6JWc0035oJJ-j5E1RLst03b-JGYxk9YIfW9yELxn0Z5V2ON-X3-XPAUI4nMOJaHCMNzZ2MSY7zpTQgK/s1600/DSC00309.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fB7ehEnU0lc2NPSbVgq9ocn3I5z9DP4mwE57xjErg-mRklMateZ7OLkvjTeDq6JWc0035oJJ-j5E1RLst03b-JGYxk9YIfW9yELxn0Z5V2ON-X3-XPAUI4nMOJaHCMNzZ2MSY7zpTQgK/s320/DSC00309.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563957150019314658" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">How to Reach Caramoan</span><br /><br />I have been to Caramoan three times, so here I am sharing my experiences, itinerary, budget and other tourist tips. Getting to Caramoan is admittedly a long and tiring trip. Tourists from Manila have the option to take the <span style="font-weight:bold;">bus</span> from Cubao or Pasay (or other booking places) or to travel by <span style="font-weight:bold;">plane</span>. The bus ride from Manila to Naga could last from 8 to 10 hours, depending on the quality of the perpetually "under construction" highways on the way to Bicol. Bus fare could range from PHP600 to PHP1000 for airconditioned buses (2x2, coach type and sleeper type). Fortunately, there are really nice buses to bicol, the latest is the sleeper type of Isarog Bus Line. Fare for non-aircon or ordinary buses could be way cheaper and even negotiable, except that there'll be incessant stops. <br /><br />On the other hand, tourists may opt to take a plane to Naga City, the flight lasting only forty-five minutes. Sometimes plane fares are now cheaper than bus fares because of the periodic seat sales of the major airline companies. You just have to be quick in availing of these promos :)Or you may just book early, as I usually do. I would advice travel by plane if budget allows :) From Naga Airport, which is actually in Pili, take a bus or jeep to Naga terminal. Don't take the taxi unless you're willing to pay PHP300. <span style="font-style:italic;">Sayang!</span> From there, take a van to Sabang, Partido, Camarines Sur. There are also buses, but vans are more advisable lest you get left behind by the last ferry trip to Caramoan. Trips to Caramoan are only until 11am.<br /><br />The van ride from Naga to Sabang takes another two hours at most, and that doesn't include the waiting time for the van to fill up. Upon arrival in Sabang, look for the "Harry" ferry (it's the name of the boat franchise) going to Guijalo Port of Caramoan. Harry trips are at every two hours interval, but the last trip is only up to 11AM. It is preferable for tourists to make it to the 6AM trip in order to arrive early and thus, start the fun early. Fare for the van is PHP90 while for the boat, PHP125. The ferry trip from Sabang Port to Guijalo Port also lasts around two hours, but I've never been bored due to the amazing view of the sea and mountains. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">To recap the trip:</span> Take a bus or plane from Manila to Naga City; if you traveled by plane, ride a pedicab from the Naga airport to the highway (fare is less than P10.00) and a jeep or bus from Pili to Naga (fare approx. P10 to P12.00); upon arrival at Naga terminal, search for the van terminal and ride a van going to Sabang, Partido; From Sabang, look for the "Harry" boat going to Caramoan. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Where to Stay</span><br /><br />Upon reaching <span style="font-weight:bold;">Guijalo Port</span>, take a "single"/habal-habal or a motorcycle for PHP 30 to the town center and from there you can find several lodges, inns, hotels and homestays. Rate among these accommodations differ especially depending on whether it is peak season or not. During my first trip, I stayed at the house of a friend so it was free. On my second trip, we stayed at <span style="font-weight:bold;">Villa Juliana</span> Hotel. No fancy stuff here, just a basic lodge but really, really cheap. The room we rented was only P600 (way back in '07) and accommodated the six of us since it has two double beds and have an additional foam. During my third visit in 2009, my friend Joann and I stayed over at the homestay of the Latam family at Panim-am. I reckon they are quite well-known in the place so you may just ask around. We got our room for P200 per head (big bed, electric fan), plus the owner was kind enough to cook food for us, for a fee of course. Anyways, depending on your hunting skills for cheap and comfy place, accommodation can range from PHP3000 per house to PHP150 per room. Just don't expect such fancy resort amenities...<span style="font-style:italic;">cowboy lang kumbaga</span> ;)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Things to Do: Hike, Island Hop, Swim, Snorkel and Relax</span><br /><br />For the first day, you can hike at<span style="font-weight:bold;"> Mount Caglago</span>, on top of which is the grotto of the O<span style="font-weight:bold;">ur Lady of the Holy Rosary.</span> <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieDnAeIBc9oask3PZdSB0w0MGf58nZlvKp0adhI6Hvq3IxiaDpmIvRVXa_b55M8FG502df3tKAMU3740va8jzWYypndVToJoxdHLCaMrQIC3qOeIUYcFPNEfncBOTSTstX7JUhLJ_sdv_s/s1600/1_539350676l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieDnAeIBc9oask3PZdSB0w0MGf58nZlvKp0adhI6Hvq3IxiaDpmIvRVXa_b55M8FG502df3tKAMU3740va8jzWYypndVToJoxdHLCaMrQIC3qOeIUYcFPNEfncBOTSTstX7JUhLJ_sdv_s/s320/1_539350676l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563963267327633698" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">My Caramoan buddies circa summer '07</span> ;)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtI4jmSkTAwjW7tSPIcUWpKrHyh_1HEwESzSLZ5ol1abiZNv94io5R18sq8jmDTMHqPSshZsxs1lgsI2EU0AoVanNvP98YANTytjOwUW2gpKJSMO8-KASwozlSA7DoKml8zbbelxAwGN4N/s1600/1_562001513l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtI4jmSkTAwjW7tSPIcUWpKrHyh_1HEwESzSLZ5ol1abiZNv94io5R18sq8jmDTMHqPSshZsxs1lgsI2EU0AoVanNvP98YANTytjOwUW2gpKJSMO8-KASwozlSA7DoKml8zbbelxAwGN4N/s320/1_562001513l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563969117086651778" /></a><br /><br />It was Don who got everything planned out during my second trip. He was <span style="font-style:italic;">ika nga</span>, the mastermind of the trip. This friend of mine is the best planner in the world really, that the multicab, boat rentals, and even our food were all taken cared of. Hence, I'm quite ignorant of the rates then. Anyways on the way to <span style="font-weight:bold;">Mt. Caglago</span>,we rode a multicab from the centro going to Brgy Bikal. It was a 30-minute ride approximately and from Bikal,a small boat fetched us to take us to the foot of the Mountain. We started hiking around 3pm and after one hour and several hundreds of steps, we were already on the top of the mountain, before the gigantic statue of the <span style="font-weight:bold;">Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary</span>. It was really a tiring climb! But it was our pilgrimage; plus, in the company of happy friends, nothing is super tiring :) <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx2QMvFvZxDKkHIV7_RqLBHZcIAO-pYweDaWihI1v7dg0BQhyphenhyphen10D5NpMzxLiBI2rX4tH5sLwh32xN4Pr8hLTmelSd_B_Wi3YDbsQwSUVoWKCQrzkVDlQbhsCSndlN_l6IaTk9eoh7p0bqW/s1600/1_370588942l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx2QMvFvZxDKkHIV7_RqLBHZcIAO-pYweDaWihI1v7dg0BQhyphenhyphen10D5NpMzxLiBI2rX4tH5sLwh32xN4Pr8hLTmelSd_B_Wi3YDbsQwSUVoWKCQrzkVDlQbhsCSndlN_l6IaTk9eoh7p0bqW/s320/1_370588942l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563966404512318402" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">This was how the grotto of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary looked like in '07.</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAa-WePvx29NtLt9Pb90Z2uiiQO00RMf1Z2gn0UwoGCDozCQq8JDpZ6QDEcx3kV0_UTTdKybszladJOKLmJ1IzNuNcAtgNDW53mzI_nyb_E450ka8Uga-_-wx_PW2hyphenhyphenR6LUM54dE-thAF/s1600/1_496423564l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAa-WePvx29NtLt9Pb90Z2uiiQO00RMf1Z2gn0UwoGCDozCQq8JDpZ6QDEcx3kV0_UTTdKybszladJOKLmJ1IzNuNcAtgNDW53mzI_nyb_E450ka8Uga-_-wx_PW2hyphenhyphenR6LUM54dE-thAF/s320/1_496423564l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563966412864480802" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Grotto was under construction after being destroyed by a super typhoon. Locals consider the grotto as their protector.</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxA6Q_4al_HdS3vNec0TSgDnk9UQA5tW0CdDFFJ4a1UzNH2vq74tFev6nXpoRx6ZQqE4EsC2rdfj_KeZliDwDVhZugokPMS4XaVheJFCWFtvocIKJl7lWSo2xeiOjQVZAzty36-Bq8kRw/s1600/156790_479849023959_763563959_5657044_2730599_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxA6Q_4al_HdS3vNec0TSgDnk9UQA5tW0CdDFFJ4a1UzNH2vq74tFev6nXpoRx6ZQqE4EsC2rdfj_KeZliDwDVhZugokPMS4XaVheJFCWFtvocIKJl7lWSo2xeiOjQVZAzty36-Bq8kRw/s320/156790_479849023959_763563959_5657044_2730599_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563966419298141970" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary today. Really magnificent. Thanks to Mading Karen Bolanos for taking this shot.</span><br /><br />Our arduous hike was rewarded with an amazing view! Besides the satisfaction of conquering a 500-step hike, we also got the chance to enjoy the breathtaking view on top of the mountain. One can see the blue seas of Caramoan and its different islands. It was the perfect afternoon to forget everything, relax, and just be thankful for the surrounding beauty and the company of good friends. We only have peanuts, some bread, mineral water and one liter of Gatorade with us, but everything was perfect :) <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihWxZj93v0AUekVLpbmcykZWtTgVxvbMmRNohHVOfVdOt3BeWR0SeSmUMl7EI1T3Gy4_7p4CAq0zzXcE_ndM2nkcQrUJm3fUlgBFuQKIrRPBlKzSuXGxJ0gQv1iAmV8rYePM8dAzhYP8D4/s1600/1_900584136l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihWxZj93v0AUekVLpbmcykZWtTgVxvbMmRNohHVOfVdOt3BeWR0SeSmUMl7EI1T3Gy4_7p4CAq0zzXcE_ndM2nkcQrUJm3fUlgBFuQKIrRPBlKzSuXGxJ0gQv1iAmV8rYePM8dAzhYP8D4/s320/1_900584136l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563969132056979858" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">A Dreamy Afternoon at Mt. Caglago</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT0THi-tZ8hh5Hu8dmPs5wXOeWAjRsFrrCXR6BHMCi_pMHQoWA_vTRnVcTCi3KVMJMmhTg6WopOdu0vi65__Qu0xL2UavWLxUKYmCMCyrFXXJpHs3uNC8PbXdvKzv-EwloOMMF5FOqggu0/s1600/1_838945157l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT0THi-tZ8hh5Hu8dmPs5wXOeWAjRsFrrCXR6BHMCi_pMHQoWA_vTRnVcTCi3KVMJMmhTg6WopOdu0vi65__Qu0xL2UavWLxUKYmCMCyrFXXJpHs3uNC8PbXdvKzv-EwloOMMF5FOqggu0/s320/1_838945157l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563969129318086706" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WpRaNHeYWqwf5QDY6EXrnfgdXrkUpAb3H5Wnic47nbtKm1IPPpJ-bY7gTuS3Abl9miMhZOyRIY1t5Q6gSHGz_i2GcddN64iphCz7DF6w653pG35bktE7WeJMTbDAWRjl8AK2SFmLNCpl/s1600/1_189625727l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WpRaNHeYWqwf5QDY6EXrnfgdXrkUpAb3H5Wnic47nbtKm1IPPpJ-bY7gTuS3Abl9miMhZOyRIY1t5Q6gSHGz_i2GcddN64iphCz7DF6w653pG35bktE7WeJMTbDAWRjl8AK2SFmLNCpl/s320/1_189625727l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563969120606646386" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg02EnhHWzJc-1GnUoyoKm9vkamwcdTLV4GjYvg0TMcEjx2jWS_1fu_eD-DIDROqKHf4wOiR9Euo4SXl8_Z1I1xWvh15xkH1pZxm0ugUcO169-uZx1Dfn_9Bhcp2wXDZ-2p_VsmTg60J7Mr/s1600/24838_111817878835450_100000217142393_256919_306316_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg02EnhHWzJc-1GnUoyoKm9vkamwcdTLV4GjYvg0TMcEjx2jWS_1fu_eD-DIDROqKHf4wOiR9Euo4SXl8_Z1I1xWvh15xkH1pZxm0ugUcO169-uZx1Dfn_9Bhcp2wXDZ-2p_VsmTg60J7Mr/s320/24838_111817878835450_100000217142393_256919_306316_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563969135891756930" /></a><br /><br />However, we have to cut short our sight-seeing and relaxation time because we have to get down before dusk, lest we fall down the flight of stairs. Time really runs so fast when things are perfect and happy! But anyways, there was still more adventure waiting for us the next day. So we went back to our hotel, ate at the house of Don's friend, sang some songs at the videoke, washed up and went to sleep.<br /><br />The second day is to be spent for what else but <span style="font-weight:bold;">island hopping</span>! Yup, Caramoan has a number of beautiful islands, although the local government is only extensively advertising Gota and Honoan Resorts. The islands I'm talking about have fine white sands; other have cream-colored sands with courser grains. Some are already populated with tourists, others are still unexploited and serene. These islands are usually 20 to 30 minutes away from each other. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD44Iy9hZSrVIT8tes8Av4TCXufpQbqZIRxZakSqh4DCKkTA5pAnBiAsp9DIQFfgMo2LfFI-mGRTiwbzC474VcV4pxwCVjEi-k2KRhqcVfuOGQBy17bwqF6yG1zkd4D52xtkK1aMWdlZxk/s1600/24838_111820325501872_100000217142393_256968_5445446_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD44Iy9hZSrVIT8tes8Av4TCXufpQbqZIRxZakSqh4DCKkTA5pAnBiAsp9DIQFfgMo2LfFI-mGRTiwbzC474VcV4pxwCVjEi-k2KRhqcVfuOGQBy17bwqF6yG1zkd4D52xtkK1aMWdlZxk/s320/24838_111820325501872_100000217142393_256968_5445446_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563974327287997554" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">One of the Islands of Caramoan</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNZiY4lZUjg1bMBKFiu8xE_wApXCPvETxRPu90Tkd78aoEHXKjQoJ_oCV1_XeLaGk97QgUFma4e_sz2aX_qAk522V_raQJhHeOyI7cEi1rveQWyfdzTbx-y4Ano9CrbryEC1cvGSfa4-l4/s1600/1_789993263l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNZiY4lZUjg1bMBKFiu8xE_wApXCPvETxRPu90Tkd78aoEHXKjQoJ_oCV1_XeLaGk97QgUFma4e_sz2aX_qAk522V_raQJhHeOyI7cEi1rveQWyfdzTbx-y4Ano9CrbryEC1cvGSfa4-l4/s320/1_789993263l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563974316108323730" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Matukad Island</span><br /><br />We ate lunch at one of the islands, I forgot the name of the island but I will never forget our delicious meal. Until today, I consider the same as one of the best meals in my life. No kidding! We had fresh grilled malasugi (blue marlin)--cooked just the way I like, medium rare. The fish was cooked to perfect juiciness and the chunks of fishmeat, really yummy. We also had large crabs (mud crabs), the very thought of which makes my mouth water already. Plus there's a dip of toyo-sili-mansi.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLixCdrtYrUcjCxvXbmv1TWmFDSmW0V7JHjKL9kw7VMwXRb7aHVJqrmXmOlpGSYmnigK9Xu4rQcoXKJezjL8vgYl_JClpPfmHhu5qn9sRzHNXFsu0SmBnicqUMttBlAY15cZFQ8R4MDEK4/s1600/DSC00430.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLixCdrtYrUcjCxvXbmv1TWmFDSmW0V7JHjKL9kw7VMwXRb7aHVJqrmXmOlpGSYmnigK9Xu4rQcoXKJezjL8vgYl_JClpPfmHhu5qn9sRzHNXFsu0SmBnicqUMttBlAY15cZFQ8R4MDEK4/s320/DSC00430.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563974351175451826" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPtJhBgbOXALVvl7gvF9mqunwm4GES101EkR2HE1V5gt40Z5HyDZS7xh01exzvkKz3AodBzowtviZ6fKTRjndcz3jXUI8mzMjoK0LOmoxWJjbVzEfauNFVqlqaFP6j424CGc0on2kB2Nf/s1600/24838_111822278835010_100000217142393_256986_7212167_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPtJhBgbOXALVvl7gvF9mqunwm4GES101EkR2HE1V5gt40Z5HyDZS7xh01exzvkKz3AodBzowtviZ6fKTRjndcz3jXUI8mzMjoK0LOmoxWJjbVzEfauNFVqlqaFP6j424CGc0on2kB2Nf/s320/24838_111822278835010_100000217142393_256986_7212167_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563974344139564594" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMfWxBGZIIlnAn_AFaGGCdAECyrVtiYtkbLIFi-Er-MsveJPSpTIeztbJAFYAEZ515jq2i8ljkyfaM5pl7I9xGOZplT5QdO1BSSKZe8us34jA8Xnt6now_qaBHZw06ElIk5XhqWPcBG2c0/s1600/1_810937850l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMfWxBGZIIlnAn_AFaGGCdAECyrVtiYtkbLIFi-Er-MsveJPSpTIeztbJAFYAEZ515jq2i8ljkyfaM5pl7I9xGOZplT5QdO1BSSKZe8us34jA8Xnt6now_qaBHZw06ElIk5XhqWPcBG2c0/s320/1_810937850l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563974328380978418" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">@Lahos Island: My Fave Jumpshot</span><br /><br />We visited Nipa Island, Honoan Island (before it was converted into a first class resort), Sabitan Laiya, Lahos or Bichara Island, and Matukad Island. Each of them is beautiful in its own right, but Matukad Beach is flaunted by the locals to have the finest sand among all the beaches there :) We even discovered that the fine white sand can be used as exfoliant. Up in the limestone mountains that surround Matukad Island is an emerald-colored pond. I haven't seen it yet but according to locals, it serves as a home to a giant electric eel, or to some potentially frightening fish creature. Anywys, I'm more interested in the view, although a friend of mine who climbed the said peak already dashed my hopes. The pond is now ugly, says him. I hope not! Then there is Lahos Island, which I also love so much... In my 3 trips there, I never fail to visit these two islands. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4SQw1_YtZnT3swQHYlYmsACdXjRyPi90bcRV6WMBUX5O-g9j4L9oCkqFCbVlzeIfRfLbIkmxiHrssPMlrR8prgfzV8k2_Pm5IqV14zhD2TeNzHWKhJXCpZfhHbDOojP99LIvMasfuIro/s1600/DSC00482.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4SQw1_YtZnT3swQHYlYmsACdXjRyPi90bcRV6WMBUX5O-g9j4L9oCkqFCbVlzeIfRfLbIkmxiHrssPMlrR8prgfzV8k2_Pm5IqV14zhD2TeNzHWKhJXCpZfhHbDOojP99LIvMasfuIro/s320/DSC00482.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563977000777876738" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">With another fave lakwatsa buddy, Joann @ Lahos Island</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOmXmNdCmlB1DcmIQaMzpgcK5tk2YqQBZk25C7IE66AAjz_Z-bjsj8CyTyIWWB2f0eErA6ebfjz5B2EQZWVaz8vdS13yRRt6k5v3tqxn6v7Bg73bk1m54u9r9dXarDs86zC7x4CIADeG1g/s1600/24838_111822362168335_100000217142393_257007_8334892_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOmXmNdCmlB1DcmIQaMzpgcK5tk2YqQBZk25C7IE66AAjz_Z-bjsj8CyTyIWWB2f0eErA6ebfjz5B2EQZWVaz8vdS13yRRt6k5v3tqxn6v7Bg73bk1m54u9r9dXarDs86zC7x4CIADeG1g/s320/24838_111822362168335_100000217142393_257007_8334892_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563976998568261122" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGrHtJKaup5z8pPOnX7gCHFgBLvFYYrk4y6pvRO6RuJozq1tytsL7Oq3biyULh7VscXyOzOui1API90XDP65t8VBks-z3BRTjOcLgGPcuDyPth28Tx_IvmmdsH5vnt2Nrk1lHvA4SOpLKE/s1600/24838_111822358835002_100000217142393_257006_2802560_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGrHtJKaup5z8pPOnX7gCHFgBLvFYYrk4y6pvRO6RuJozq1tytsL7Oq3biyULh7VscXyOzOui1API90XDP65t8VBks-z3BRTjOcLgGPcuDyPth28Tx_IvmmdsH5vnt2Nrk1lHvA4SOpLKE/s320/24838_111822358835002_100000217142393_257006_2802560_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563976992008540530" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Sunset,Silvery Glow on the Water and Silhouettes</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHJ7rcaI7d3EnAQ7qOZk3tEGl3csWgCy1jjHTrU__4oVxyl3CMhZfbBwJc-n7hExFoZ-RYZo_3UC5lYg9PXJNCCAJU8EGouQXFoX_wZLGWrEKeKJ4V_DzwPzdBiE_B4tjaCoAMQHbojy-/s1600/24838_111822325501672_100000217142393_256997_6874439_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHJ7rcaI7d3EnAQ7qOZk3tEGl3csWgCy1jjHTrU__4oVxyl3CMhZfbBwJc-n7hExFoZ-RYZo_3UC5lYg9PXJNCCAJU8EGouQXFoX_wZLGWrEKeKJ4V_DzwPzdBiE_B4tjaCoAMQHbojy-/s320/24838_111822325501672_100000217142393_256997_6874439_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563976987852810658" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Tropa @ Matukad Island</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMCYHUp2ieRvA5hyphenhyphenWwTAhe5AcWdEb8r1zIbhwYYNMznifOo8Wh6aHJ9tvH1SToOSqBnMmL69wGNqBo03DcmITjoURftk7bmFq4WdtG84PV8sVZLGHloY0JdoEtyrifuxh_txBPN0SvHGD/s1600/24838_111822305501674_100000217142393_256993_2192424_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMCYHUp2ieRvA5hyphenhyphenWwTAhe5AcWdEb8r1zIbhwYYNMznifOo8Wh6aHJ9tvH1SToOSqBnMmL69wGNqBo03DcmITjoURftk7bmFq4WdtG84PV8sVZLGHloY0JdoEtyrifuxh_txBPN0SvHGD/s320/24838_111822305501674_100000217142393_256993_2192424_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563976981594926978" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKVPcf5YoESuB8mJxKe92th6D4QDp7WHCVgMmWCVbnSBv0yck4gopMSHFcKGBXvc-Bjdm2n9-9hyphenhyphen9m3pWzuCQ0CkEe3rDAixYxUdCvxtLDK0-XbUJiIkX1nFjl_c4FoowaXb64OSzOJ7dX/s1600/24838_111822375501667_100000217142393_257009_5249903_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKVPcf5YoESuB8mJxKe92th6D4QDp7WHCVgMmWCVbnSBv0yck4gopMSHFcKGBXvc-Bjdm2n9-9hyphenhyphen9m3pWzuCQ0CkEe3rDAixYxUdCvxtLDK0-XbUJiIkX1nFjl_c4FoowaXb64OSzOJ7dX/s320/24838_111822375501667_100000217142393_257009_5249903_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576821075828609282" /></a><br /><br />(These beautiful pictures were taken by Kuya Arnold Lagrimas. Super thanks!)<br /><br />We waited for sunset at Lahos and enjoyed the fantastic view of the setting sun casting silvery glow on the once blue-green water. The sea is quite choppy in the afternoon, so prepare for a rougher ride on the way back. Or you may choose to stay overnight at one of the islands, some of the tourists do so.<br /><br />For other pointers, there are homestays that can cook food for you. You can shop for fresh seafood in the market and have it cooked for a minimal charge. There are no fancy restaurants or fastfoods, only karenderia or turo-turo serving homecooked foods which are acceptable to the ordinary palate. Nightlife in Caramoan is almost nil. If you want to unwind over bottles of cold beer after a long day, you can just buy them at the mini-grocery stores and drink them at your hotel, that is if its houserules allow :). So that's it. Two days of fun. :)<br /><br />FIN.<br /><br /><br />Recap :<br /><br />Trip <br /><br />Manila - Naga 8 hrs. bus, P700 to P1K; 45 mins plane, fare varies (this is one-way)<br /><br />Naga- Sabang, Partido 2 hrs. van, P90<br /><br />Sabang-Guijalo Port 2 to 2.5 hrs. Harry, P125<br /><br /><br />Guijalo Port to Centro 30 mins. tricycle, multicab or scooter, P30<br /><br />Accommodation:<br />Hotels, inns, homestays (a lot to choose from at the Centro or in coastal barangays) P150/head to P3000/house or room<br /><br />Boat rental:<br />P2000 to P3000 for whole day island hopping<br /><br />No entrance fees at the islands, just make sure to not leave your garbage so as to preserve their beautyBiyaherahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06859132885026580857noreply@blogger.com0Presentacion - Caramoan Rd, Caramoan, Philippines13.886078528734954 123.843383789062513.392845028734953 123.2116697890625 14.379312028734955 124.4750977890625