Safari Lodge in Baguio

Last minute overnight trip to Baguio. Tried our luck at the Safari Lodge and they had a budget room available for us. It was my first time at this place. Maybe next time I’ll try their much better rooms. Was not able to take pictures of the rooms, but took some of their common areas.

They also served complimentary breakfast. Got my self a longganisa meal.

Safari Lodge is located along Leonard Wood Rd, right across the Botanical Garden and near Teachers’ Camp.

A Historical Tour in Corregidor

Decided to join our Canadian guest for a trip to the historical island of Corregidor. I have heard about some great feedback about the tour but never got the chance before. I am glad I did now.

We were at the CCP terminal of Sun Cruises as early as 6:30 AM.

We boarded the ferry at around 7:15 AM and left at 8:00 AM. Arrived at Corregidor Island shortly before 10:00 AM.

We boarded the tram assigned to our group. We had Mang Bobby as our tour guide. He was a funny, interesting guy. Not as intense as Carlos Celdran but he was interesting on his own right.

Malinta Tunnel

Mang Bobby introduced us to the tour by saying that this island was heavily fortified by the Americans from 1902 to 1932. It had hundreds of tunnels, many battery of guns and 5 regimens of American and Filipino soldiers.

Our first stop was at one of the main tunnels of the island that links the main island and the tail end. We also watched the lights and sounds show.

Corregidor Inn

Had an early buffet lunch at the only hotel on the island. It had a good view of the water and the island.

Middleside Barracks

Stopped by the ruins of the Middleside Barracks where a regimen of American soldiers lived during World War II.

Battery Way

First of the battery of guns that we visited.

Near the battery was the largest gun on the island.

Spanish Light House

This is the oldest light house in the country. It is the highest point of the island.

War Memorial

Before visiting the memorial, Mang Bobby took us to the edge of that area of the island to see the tail end of the island.

Here’s a view of the Eternal Flame (of freedom, I think) and the White Dome at the memorial.

Lorcha Dock

This is where MacArthur left the Philippines to go to Australia. He was actually in Australia when he said ‘I shall return.’

Japanese Memorial

Last stop of our tour. The Japanese government did not know about the Japanese cemetery until 1986.

It was a worthwhile trip. Great to know more about our history and how a lot of people sacrificed their lives for the country to get to where we are now.

We left the island at 2:30 PM and was back in Manila at 4:00 PM.

To book tours to the island, go to http://www.corregidorphilippines.com.

Walk this Way: A Walking Manila Tour by Carlos Celdran

It was definitely different from the other walking tours I have taken. The tour guide was like no other. The encounter with Carlos Celdran himself was a unique experience. He was so passionate and could get really intense on some topics particularly on the part when Manila was caught between the war of United States and Japan and thousands of Filipinos were killed and Manila was bombed, destroying the beautiful city. The 30+ mix of Filipinos and foreigners laughed and cried with him as he shared facts and events in the past that affected the way we are today in Manila (and Philippines in general).

Thank you, Carlos Celdran, for such an amazing experience. It was not only an informational tour but an eye opener even for us Filipinos. I will never look at certain things the same way again.

Loved the calesa ride! Definitely an experience for our Canadian guest

San Agustin Church. The oldest church in the Philippines. The only one of the 7 churches and 1 cathedral in Intramuros that survived the bombing in WWII.

Last stop was a Barbara’s where halo-halo was served while Carlos was wrapping up the tour. Amazing tour! Carlos got a big applause from everyone.

We walked a few meters a way to take a look at the Manila Cathedral which was under renovation.

Love this poster! I will definitely take another Walk This Way tour

For tour schedules, visit http://www.carlosceldran.com.

To reserve, text (63) 920 9092021.

Meeting place is at Fort Santiago, Santa Clara Street, Intramuros.

A Beautiful Boracay Wedding (April 13, 2013)

Back in Boracay after 6 months!

Was blessed to be invited by my good friend, Bucky, at his wedding in Boracay this weekend. Bucky was my batchmate in college at the Ateneo de Manila University and we both stayed at the college dorm, Cervini Hall for the guys and Eliazo Hall for the girls. When he mentioned that the wedding will be in Boracay, didn’t think twice about it! I immediately booked my flight and hotel.

I arrived in Boracay last Friday night at 11:00 PM, two hours later than expected. The plane could not leave Manila because of some congestion in Kalibo. Apparently, flights to Caticlan were redirected to Kalibo because of some event. So, I did not get a chance to meet with dorm friends who were already in Boracay.

The wedding was not until 2:00 in the afternoon. So, I decided to have a relaxing morning by the beach. Got my simple breakfast at One Crescent Place before heading out to the beach. In my beach bag was a book, sunblock, my phones, phone charger and, of course, some money. I planned on having a massage at some point by the beach. Yes, massage by the beach. And it only costs PHP 400 at most (around US$ 10).

When I got to the beach, this was the sight that welcomed me.

While walking by the beach to look for a good spot to hang out, I accidentally saw Roldan, another dorm friend from Ateneo waiting for his breakfast at Jony’s. Then we were joined by Albert who was checked in at Jony’s along with his fiance, Cor. Albert is also from the dorm. We went to Jonah’s for some fruitshake. Their milkshake is a must-try. Albert got an avocado milkshake, I got a mango milkshake and I think Roldan got a banana-mango milkshake.

At Jonah’s with Albert, Cor, and Roldan.

Since we still had time, we decided to get a massage by the beach. We went back to Jony’s and they helped get a masseuse for us.

My view during the massage

Roldan and Albert getting their massage. Look how close we were to the water.

By the time Roldan and Albert were done with their massage, the water has reached the table. It was high tide!

The Wedding

Got to the Holy Rosary Parish church a little bit before 2:00 PM. It was so cool to see these cool Cervini guys again. Back in college, there was a group of 15 guys in Cervini who called themselves the ‘Lonely Hearts Club’. Their goal was to make sure all of them find the one for them and get married someday. Bucky was the President. He is now officially resigned, the third to the last to get married

Roldan, Me, Joseph, Bucky (the groom!), Wong, Albert, Cor

A few minutes later, we were all asked to take our seats. The doors were opened, and the radiant bride walked in.

Kaye was so lovely and elegant in her bridal gown

Father Lito Mangulabnan, SJ, who was our Head Prefect for a period of time at the dorm, officiated the wedding. He knew Bucky well. During homily, he assured Kaye that she was marrying a really good man.

You may now kiss the bride!

All excited for the newly weds!

Ride to the reception

Cocktails

The newly weds served cocktails at Sea Wind. Wong hosted the event along with one of Kaye’s lady friends. Wong was hilarious! I think he did a great job making the program fun for everyone.

Veggies, oysters, lechon

After cocktails, we were asked to join the newly weds for some pictures with the sunset in the background.

Glorious sunset

Sweet and beautiful…. hello, low tide

Dinner

A section by the beach was setup for dinner.

Our table assignments

Got this beautiful shot of the reception area and the bluish sky after the sun set and the little moon came out.

We welcomed the newly weds to the party with sparklers!

Kaye’s bestfriend opened the party with a heart-felt message to Kaye and Bucky. Then, he surprised them with a number from their friends – a dragon dance! According to Wong, the dragon dance was for prosperity and fertility!

I was just telling the guys at my table that I wanted to watch a fire dance by the beach. Then, these wonderful people came in! According to Wong, the fire dance was also for fertility! Lol

During dinner, Kaye’s father asked if he could sit with us at our table. He was overwhelmed by the entire thing. But he was very happy for his daughter. He went on to share with us how they brought in the butchered cow that was roasted on the spot for the wedding. They hired a boat from Bacolod to Aklan. They brought all the stuff they needed to roast and the men who will do it.

Dancing ensued after the dinner and program. Fun times!

With Albert and my best buddy in college, Joseph

Nikki, Wong, Albert and Kaye’s friend

Woohoo!

Everyone on their feet dancing and drinking

It was so warm that night that the guys, led by Wong, took off their white shirts and danced the night away. Even the groom took off his shirt! Haha! By the way, Wong – as Bucky asked throughout the event, how did you get that physique? ;D

Unfortunately, I could not stay long at the party since my flight the next day was at 9:30 AM. I had to leave the hotel at around 6:00 AM. Boracay is about two hours away from Kalibo. I needed to take a 15-minute boat ride to Caticlan, then another an hour and a half land trip by van to Kalibo airport. There is also an airport in Caticlan but the flight I got was in Kalibo.

One Crescent Place

This boutique hotel was not on the beach front, but it was right behind the church and was only 3 minutes away from the beach on foot. Found it on Expedia. Why I picked it? The rates were reasonable, the reviews were good, and it was close to the church. I actually did not know where the church was except that it is in Station 1.

Breakfast area outside

It was a very neat place and the room was cozy. But, what I liked most was the service. When I told the guy during check-in that I will miss breakfast on Sunday, since it is normally served at 7:00 AM, he said they can serve my breakfast before 6:00 AM. And they did, and they made sure I was already awake to take my breakfast at 5:45 AM.

https://www.facebook.com/onecrescentplace/

http://www.onecrescentplace.com/

Holy Week 2013

Spent the holy week with family and friends in my home province, La Union.

My sister’s friend, May, and her family joined us for the trip.

Our jazzies were all ready for the trip.

Our first stop was San Juan Surf Resort.

Good morning! Surfer students getting ready.

Three little kids

With my very patient instructor, Jeff, after my first try at surfing.

Orange diet

Good Friday

Met with my good friend, Rhea, in Aringay to join the procession. A lot of people joined.

Commemorating the crucifixion

Baguio

While most people are heading to the beach, we went up the mountains! We went to Baguio for some cool breeze. Had picnic in Cam John Hay and played with the kids.

Later, we went to Mines View Park. Stopped to get some grilled corn.

Pagsanjan Falls

Went to Laguna for a weekend getaway with my sisters in Pagsanjan to see the majestic falls.

We stayed at a place called Villa Socorro Agri-Eco Village. It’s a cool, quiet place. They also have a banana plantation within their premises and a banana chips production plant.

Since we arrived late in Pagsanjan, we decided to try some of the must try places in the area.

We tried the best halo-halo in Pagsanjan – Aling Taleng’s Halo Halo.

And ate dinner at one of their popular restaurants – Calle Arco. We liked it so much we had lunch the next day at the same restaurant.

The next day, we woke up early for a boat ride to the falls. We were told tha the best time to go is early in the morning.

It was a very interesting boat ride. I will let the pictures (video to follow) speak for themselves.

 

The Falls!

Going Through the Falls

Behind the Falls

All wet on the ride back from behind the falls.

On our way back, we filmed the boat ride.

Tree Planting

That same afternoon after we got back from the falls, we did our share of planting a tree in the Eco village.

Did a little sight seeing, too. This shelter was apparently featured in some American movies.

Boracay Getaway (September 2012)

Instant weekend getaway to accompany some visitors at work who wanted to visit Boracay.

We checked in at Discovery Shores. Immediately went to the shore when we arrived. Look at that view!

Got these awesome welcome sweets in my room.

Here are some pictures we took while walking by the beach.

We went island hopping the next day. I forgot what this island was named, but it was such a pristine place.

Our food was prepared by our boatman when we got to the island. Hmm, so delicious!

Back at the white beach, we took pictures of the grotto.

Went to this little coffee shop named Real Coffee. They were known for their calamansi muffins.

These are what you see when you walk by the beach near Station 2. A lot of people will approach you to convince you to try the various island activities.

Took this picture while drinking a mango milkshake from Jonah’s. A must try in Boracay.

Here’s a view of the island from the plane on our way back to Manila.

Zambales (May 2012)

Road trip to North of Manila, just 2 hours away.

Summer 2012: Calaguas Island

I’ve never heard of Calaguas Island before. When my sister asked if I wanted to join her and her friends to a packaged tour to the island, I was hesitant. What’s in that place? I looked it up and I saw a natural beauty – white sand, blue sea, green mountains – somewhere in Camarines Norte.  People who go there stay in tents and cook their own food. There is no electricity on the island and you bring your own drinking water. Interesting. It’s gonna be a great adventure. So, I signed up for a trip from March 30 – April 1.

We met at around 9:00 PM at the Shell gas station along Edsa/Ayala. The organizer was a group called Vagabond Pinas. We were going with another group and they were all from Chevron Phils. There were 2 vans – one with our group – me, my sister and her friends, May and Pao – and the other the Chevron peeps.  We were 2 hours late from the original time we were supposed to leave, but I just took that time to either read my Hunger Games book or take a nap.

We left at around 10:00 PM.  I slept through most of the 7 hour-trip. We had a quick stop in Daet for breakfast  and to buy some stuff.  While walking around we saw this wide variety of rice cakes being sold. We got samples of each!

Rice Cakes!

The ride to the port took less than five minutes. This is where we had our bags put in large plastic bags so they are protected from water during the boat ride to the island.

One of the outrigger boats to Calaguas Island

We passed through this little body of water before we got to the sea. There were kids maneuvering their canoe as well.

When we got to the sea, we had to get everything covered in plastic. There were huge waves and it rained a lot. I wish I wore my swimsuit during  the boat ride. My shirt and jeans were soaking wet when we arrived on the island  almost two hours later. But, it didn’t  matter. The island that welcomed us was such a beauty!

Welcome to Calaguas Island!

It was sunny for a bit then it went overcast with some rains. It was a bit gloomy that afternoon, but it did not dampen our spirits as we walked down the shore and took pictures. There were only a few of us on the beach. And I did not see a single foreigner. Definitely, this place is not yet known.

The other groups and their tents

By mid-afternoon, our group started pitching our tents. My sister and I shared one tent.

With my sister, May and Beth

What's inside our tent

Our wet stuff

Cow sled

Poso. Where we fetch water for bathing and for flushing the toilet.

Spent the rest of the afternoon in this cabana where I took a nap, listened to music and read a book

My pillow, music source and book

Almost sunset - my view from the cabana

Attempt at capturing sunset

There was no electricity on the island. So we lighted lamps as we ate the sumptuous dinner prepared by our organizer. The group had a campfire as they shared stories and had drinks. I decided to just stay in our tent and sleep early since my head started throbbing. The sound of the waves from the nearby beach quickly lulled me to sleep.

Was up by 5:00 AM the next morning and felt well-rested and refreshed. The sun was just rising, too.

Sunrise in Calaguas Island

It was a beautiful, sunny morning, the sky was almost clear and the beach was much lovelier.

Good mornng

Attempt at some yoga

Had a quick breakfast before we headed off for a bit of hiking in the hills.

Corned beef, scrambed eggs and rice for breakfast

Iyah, May, Pao

We are headed to that hill

We're on our way

Cow and its calf

Passing through the swamp

Half-way I think

This girl was our guide along with her brother (at the back)

Almost there

Empty hut at the top of the hill

With the Chevron peeps

It was starting to rain on our way on our way down.

Uh-oh

We got ready to leave by noon.

The group with the Vagabond Pinas crew

Bye, Calaguas Island

I hope we could stay longer to relax and enjoy the scenery. I hope the next time I visit the place, it won’t be commercialized yet and we still get to sleep in tents.

For more information about Vagabond Pinas and their upcoming tours, visit http://www.vagabondpinas.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/vagabondpinas.