Philippine Tour & Beyond

Cebu Pacific Makes it Really More Fun in the Philippines with P1 Seat Sale

2012-01-22T00:41:00.003+08:00

It is more fun in the Philippines especially if if you get to spend only a peso ( Php 1.00 ) on airfare ticket.

Cebu Pacific just e-mailed me a P1 Seat Sale.

I would have loved to avail of this seat sale. But my schedule for the year is basically up in the air until the job seeker me lands that elusive job.

If you're luckier than me and holds your own schedule, proceed immediately to the Cebu Pacific website and book your trip as this kind of airfare ticket sale do not last that long.

Help Cagayan de Oro City & Iligan City in the Aftermath of Typhoon Sendong

2011-12-19T11:18:00.000+08:00

This post is for the people of Cagayan de Oro City, devastated by Typhoon Sendong.

I have been to Cagayan de Oro once. And I am deeply saddened that it was hit the hardest by tropical storm Sendong. Watching footages from the news on TV reminds me of the aftermath of Ondoy.

Our family prepared for Ondoy but never expected that it will submerged our house in Novaliches, Quezon City waist-deep because no typhoon has ever flooded our place. There's always a first time, Ondoy proved to our family.

CDO, and Mindanao in general, is seldom hit by tropical depressions. Past education, if I remember correctly, taught us that Mindanao is ideal to be the food basket of the whole country because of its suitable year-long climate.

My heart goes to the people of CDO. When I visited Cagayan de Oro in 2009, I enjoyed the place and the people are generally hospitable.

From the Philippine Red Cross Donate Page

Right now, I can only think of donating to the Philippine Red Cross thru my cellphone. But I hope that this little blog can encourage visitors to sympathize with the plight of those devastated by Typhoon Sendong (CDO & Iligan City) and do what they can to help.

Rich Philippine Biodiversity Featured in a US TV Special

2011-10-31T21:42:00.000+08:00

The Phillipines' rich biodiversity is must-see for foreign and local tourists alike. And I am mighty proud that it was featured thru a TV special in the US.

ABC7 KGO-TV recently aired a feature entitled “Reefs to Rainforests: The Great Expedition” which took viewers on an expedition to the Philippines for a breath-taking look at one of the world’s richest and endangered biological hotspots, where scientists from the Philippines and the San Francisco Bay Area discovered 300 new species.
[Source]

You can watch the featured video here.

One more good reason for me to further love my country and enjoined my countrymen to support programs and advocacies that will preserve the treasured biodiversity of the Philippines.

Bohol Tourism Map

2011-07-27T13:49:00.001+08:00

Have you decided where will you go this August 26 - 30 long weekend?

If you are thinking of going to Bohol, better check out this Bohol tourism map.

Bohol Tourism Map Screenshot

Powered by Google maps, the Bohol Tourism Map accurately shows the more than 700 tourism sites of the province along with the tourism-related establishments.

Yugatech blogged about how this accurate mapping of Bohol was accomplished.

Aside from the map, the left panel provides vital information about accomodations, facilities, rates and, most importantly, contact details. So, nice!

I can not emphasize more how this recent initiative is heaven-sent for those who have only the internet to plan their travel itenerary. Definitely, a big boost for Bohol. Can we expect other Philippine travel hub to follow?

Do not forget to refer to the Bohol Toursim Map here if you are planning to visit Bohol. ;)

August 26 - 30 2011 Long Weekend, Longer Travel Opportunity

2011-07-24T16:54:00.002+08:00

Eid’l-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. This year it falls on August 30 and has been declared a holiday. With August 29, already declared a holiday to celebrate National Heroes Day, a four-day long weekend is in the offing to majority of employees in the country.

As Saturdays & Sundays are normally off-work days, employees who work under such schedule will enjoy a four-day weekend from August 26 - 30, 2011. That long weekend is an opportune time to tour the Philippines and know more about our country.

Image from Dreamstime Free Photos

Those planning to travel on a long weekend such as this one need to plan ahead. A well-planned itenerary is the key to making the most out of a long vacation.

Since its four days, going out of the city or your province is very suitable. Getting cheap fares for air travel would not only be cost-saving but time-saving as well.

Up north, you can fly to Laoag, Ilocos Norte. Taste the famous Ilocos Empanada. Or just went straight splashing at the beaches of Pagudpud. Then you can proceed to the Heritage City in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. It is best to walk through Calle Crisologo at night. Stepping on the cobblestoned streets is like stepping to the Spanish times.

Further down, Baguio remains a favorite except when it rains.

Feeling lazy for long trips, Tagaytay is quite near and accessible from Metro Manila. I hope you can experience Tagaytay Zipline fun, too.

Weather permitting, beach resorts further down south in Batangas are a plenty for a fun swim. Munting Buhangin is one example.

Boracay & Bohol are famous destinations in the Visayas. As it is not summer anymore, perhaps it is no longer full of visitors by the end of August. Going there on the upcoming long weekend may prove to be more enjoyable because of less crowd..

I will personally recommend Cagayan de Oro. Not that I'm from there. But if the weather allows it, you can have lots of adrenaline rush via Cagayan de Oro river whitewater rafting adventure. After which, you can proceed to the scenic beauty that is Camiguin.

Those are just passing suggestions. The Philippines has a lot of exciting and splendid places to visit on that long vacation.

I do hope that local tourism will enjoy a boost from August 26 to 30, 2011. Be safe and enjoy the Philippines during this upcoming long weekend.

Tagaytay Zipline Fun

2011-06-21T20:37:00.002+08:00

When I shared to a friend my zipline experience at the Macahambus Adventure Park in Cagayan de Oro sometime ago, he told me try out the Tagaytay Zipline as well. Early this month, I had the chance to experience what he was bragging about.

The experience was made more special because it happened on the first out-of-town trip with my GF Tintin. We had our Tagaytay Zipline fun with hands held together.

I and GF Tintin accompanied my Ate Rie to visit her property and close relatives in Dasmarinas Cavite. After which a short visit to Tagaytay was decided. The initial plan is to just go to the Picnic Grove in Tagaytay to get a view of the Taal Volcano and Taal Lake. I almost jumped for joy as the Tagaytay Zipline I'm so curious about for so long is right there at the Picnic Grove.

After the usual photoshoot with the Taal Volcano and Lake on the background our contingent had some snacks. While they are at it, It was the time for me to experience the Tagaytay Zipline.

I think its main attraction is going thru the zipline in prone position. The closest thing to flying.

I wanted to go over back & forth, it costs Php 400 per person because it's on a Sunday. Since Ate Rie will be paying, I also availed of the extra Php 200 for the souvenir photos and mugs. Hehehe! Thanks, Ate.

There was a short line leading to the take-off area. In no time, we (Tintin & I) were being strapped on the Zipline. Without further ado, we are zipping thru the air, hand on hand.

It was in the middle part, that I felt nervous. But shouting words of affection with my girlfriend right beside me makes the experience more special and also calmed my nerves.

As we approach the landing, I again felt nervous because our velocity going down to the other end made me think that the waiting staff wouldn't be able to catch us. Of course, they did. We were even pushed back for the photoshoot to be printed on the souvenirs.

It was an adrenaline rush for me. I would say that the Tagaytay Zipline experience was more exciting than the Macahambus Zipline. The zipline is longer and the prone position contributed greatly to the feeling.

Although, my nape hurt a bit because I was craning my neck to see what's in front me. The easier position might be gazing downward but there isn't much to see in the gordge downward. I doubt if anyone would remember to look towards the Taal lake while zipping through. I absolutely forgot Taal.

The return zip is less frightening except the landing to the other side.

Maybe it was a busy day that our souvenir items took longer to get printed. The souvenir consist of two diffrent photos and then each printed on coffee mugs.

We then sought out our companions whom we found busy themselves at the souvenir shops.

In retrospect, I & Tintin's first out-of-town trip was an exciting adventure and we are looking forward to more exciting and memorable trips across the Philippines and beyond.

Here are our loot for our Tagaytay Zipline Fun.

Expenses:

Zipline Round-Trip = Php 400 per person (weekend rate)
Souvenir = Php 200 per person
Picnic Grove Entrance Fee = Php 50. 00

Get more info at tagaytayzipline.com

Jose Rizal - 150th Birth Anniversary

2011-06-19T07:23:00.000+08:00

Today is the Philippine's national hero's - Dr. Jose Rizal - sesquicentennial birth anniversary

Jose Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda was a Doctor, a novelist, a polyglot among other attributes and achievements. More than that he was a martyr for Philippine independence from Spain, a national hero and treasure of his beloved country.

He was a proponent of freedom and self-government by peaceful means through institutional reforms rather than by violent revolution. Although José Rizal did admit he will become partial to 'violent means' only as a last resort.[9] Rizal believed that the only justification for national liberation and self-government is the restoration of the dignity of the people; for as he said "...why independence, if the slaves of today will be the tyrants of tomorrow?".

- Wikipedia

Today's tyrants are those corrupt government officials who only look after their own gain to the detriment of the common good and general welfare of the Filipino people.

Happy Birth Anniversary, Dr. Rizal. I hope I get to live to see another "you" and the dawn of Philippine independence from poverty and moral bankruptcy.

Tour the Philippines more affordably with AirPhil Express' P113 Flights

2011-06-12T23:38:00.001+08:00

Tour the Philippines more affordably with AirPhil Express' P113 flights.

Airphil Express is offering domestic flights in commemoration of the 113th celebration of the Philippine Independence for only Php 113s.

Air Philippines Corporation (Airphil Express, formerly known as Air Philippines) is a low-cost airline offering domestic air travel within the Philippines.

With this airfare promo, tourist can travel from Manila to Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Cotabato, Davao, General Santos, Iloilo, Kalibo, Legazpi, Puerto Princesa, Tacloban, Tagbilaran and Zamboanga or vice versa for only P113 cost of ticket. Cebu to Davao or vice versa also included. (Conditions apply).

Selling period is only until tomorrow June 13, 2011. Travel period is from October 1 - November 30, 2011.

Airphil Express allows up to 15 Kg checkin baggage and 7 Kg hand carry for each guest for Free.

Conditions:
One way
Book and Buy
Exclusive of VAT, applicable Aviation Security Fee and other surcharges
Fare Conditons apply
Limited Seats
Non-refundable
NOn-reroutable
Non-rebookable
Forfeited if not used on flight date shown

To know more about this airfare promo or book a flight straight away call
Manila (02) 855-9000
Cebu (032) 5051616

Or visit www.airphilexpress.com

Managing Expenses During Travel

2011-05-06T11:46:00.002+08:00

Managing expenses during travel is a challenging part of the experience.

When it comes to personal finance, I am a guy who earnestly want to cut expenses daily. I can say that I have relative success doing so. But whenever I travel for leisure, it is extremely difficult to put my spending in check because I'm easy to be caught up with the fun of the moment in a tourist destination.

How Do You Manage Expenses During Travel?
Image from travellingwisdom.com

Daily expenses are easier to manage because I live a fairly routinary life. There may be a day or two when I spend so much on impulse but that surge in expenses is cancelled out by the other days when I spent just a little.

During travel, however, it is different. Yes, you can plan as diligently as possible to know the cheapest fare and most affordable accomodations available. But when you're already there, it is hard not to get caught up with the moment and fail to manage your personal finances.

During our whitewater rafting adventure in Cagayan de Oro, I almost convinced my companion to abandon our planned itinerary because I want another go with the river rafting which for the record I shamefully dread initially.

Just recently, revisiting Fort Santiago and noticing Tintin's amusement with the Calesa tempted me to rent one to tour her not only inside the Fort but to Intramuros.

Eventually, I was made to see some financial sense in those instances. I'm sure it would still be a problem in my future travels. I pray by then that I have steely resolve to enjoy traveling on the planned budget.

How do you manage your expenses when you travel? Please share some tips/experience that can help other tourists when touring the Philippines in the comments.

:)

Revisiting Fort Santiago

2011-04-26T12:55:00.002+08:00

An error understanding a news feature got me serendipitously revisiting Fort Santiago last Maundy Thursday, tagging along my girlfriend. Though unplanned, we had a brief chance to step back into Hispanic times.

Our Two Tickets to Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago is part of the Walled City of Intramuros who played a key role in the history of the Philippines especially during the colonial times.

Not much have changed since the last time I visited Fort Santiago way back in 1996. Well, as far as my memory serves me. Entrance fee for adults is only Php 75.00 each.

Fort Santiago is 16th century military fortress, built strategically at the mouth of Pasig River. It served to protect the walled city of Intramuros and Manila. The only thing I know about the Fort is that this is the place where our national hero, Jose Rizal, was incarcerated while standing trial for sedition against Spain.

I think that the Fort's best historical feature is the Rizal Shrine, a reconstruction of the colonial period barracks where Rizal was confined. It is now a museum. However, the Shrine was closed on that day.

Apart from Rizal, the Fort also stood witness to many unnamed martyrs and heroes of war marked by a Memorial Cross.

That probably spooked me and Tintin while we were in the Dungeons area.

Other photos inside Fort Santiago.

Tintin got an immediate liking to the calesa, insisting that she ought to have photos with those. We inquired about the fees for a ride and found 50 pesos/per head for two laps around the main plaza too high.

We definitely not have enough feel of history and the Philippines in the older days. We look forward into visiting other historical sites like Fort Santiago in the country as we continue to tour the Philippines.

To history buffs out there, what other historical site in the Philippines should we visit next?

Visita Iglesia | Way of the Cross in 14 Churches in the City of Manila

2011-04-22T23:31:00.001+08:00

Visita Iglesia is a religious tradition practised by Filipino Catholics mostly on Maundy Thursday as part of their Holy Week Celebration. It involves visiting churches and praying the Stations of the Cross.

The Visita Iglesia to some degree is a pilgrimage, believed to grant favors from God and even miracles. Others do it annually as a panata or vow because a special wish came true.

In the tail end of my college years, Joey become a friend. He was the one who introduced to me and our other friends the concept of Visita Iglesia.

Our Visita Iglesia involves visiting 14 churches in the City of Manila on foot. No, we are not barefooted. In each church, we pray one station of the Catholic prayer Stations of the Cross. We go to the designated area inside the church for the specific station. But because there are so many people doing this tradition, we try to be as close as possible.

Our journey begins, ideally after the Last Supper Mass in Tondo, to Intramuros, to Quiapo and into the Sampaloc district of Manila.

The churches that we visit for our Visita Iglesia are in the following order:

St. John Bosco Parish Church (Tondo, Manila)
[No Church Photo yet]
***

Sto. Niño de Tondo Parish

Sto. Niño de Tondo Church
Image from simbahan.net

***

Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Parish (Delpan, Tondo, Manila)

Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Church
Image from agustinosrecoletos.com

***

Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
Manila Metropolitan Cathedral

The Manila Cathedral

***

San Agustin Church

***

Santa Cruz Parish Church

The Sta. Cruz Church
Image from archieriva.i.ph

***

St. John the Baptist Parish
Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene

The Quiapo Church
Image from ilonggoexplorer.wordpress.com

***

Shrine of the Holy Face of Jesus

Shrine of the Holy Face of Jesus Church
Image from dez-myonlineworld.com

***

Minor Basilica of San Sebastian
Our Lady of Mount Carmel

The San Sebastian Church
Image from wikipedia

***

National Shrine of St. Michael and the Archangels
Villa de San Miguel

San Miguel Church near Malacanang
Image from Joseph Nepomucin N. Niez

***

St. Jude Archdiocesan Shrine

St. Jude Church near Malacanang
Image from dez-myonlineworld.com

***

Abbey of Our Lady of Montserrat
Church of the Benedictine Monks

San Beda College Chapel
Image from panoramio.com

***

Saint Anthony 0f Padua Shrine

St. Anthony of Padua Church
Image from philippinetravelnotes.blogspot.com

***

Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Loreto Parish

Our Lady of Loreto Church
Image from flickr - Loewe Lagdan's Photostream

***

As this kind of activity also serves as a barkada kitakits, chatter and playful banter is evident as we go from church to church. But that would gradually fade in the latter churches as tiredness slowly crept among our legs.

But after finishing our Visita Iglesia, we are all smiles, feeling rejuvenated from within. And perhaps, each of us are hopeful that our special request would be granted.

I can't see how this tradition will cease. There is even an online visita iglesia now. I believe that this activity is a perfect combination of prayer and sacrifice. A great experience to share with the family or friends during the Holy Week. And of course, there is the tourism aspect of knowing more about the City of Manila through its churches and streets.

Sea Travel via Super Ferry's Todo-Todo Sail Sale

2011-04-05T22:41:00.001+08:00

Super Ferry is the country's largest shipping company and is offering discounted tickets to those wishing to tour the Philippines by ship via its Todo-todo Sail Sale promo.

Sea travel is an enjoyable experience when the sea is calm allowing longer time to enjoy the seas, the islands and other tourist attractions.

from superferry.com.ph

In this ticket sale, Super Ferry is offering Php 588 only for a trip from Manila to the visayas islands or vice versa. Also, it will only be Php 888 to travel from Manila to Mindano or vice versa.

The discounted tickets will only be sold until tomorrow, April 6, 2011 but the actual travel can be from May 1 - June 30, 2011.

For those who isn't decided yet and will not be able to purchase the discounted tickets on this sale, Super Ferry offer year-round TRIPID Fares. That would only be Php 750 for Manila-Visayas or vice-versa and Php 1150 to Manila-Mindanao or vice versa.

Prices mentioned are only of the tickets. Other fees are not included.

I already rode a ferry boats to Bataan & Camiguin. Also, some small bancas. And lucky for me, the trip was enjoyable. It was rather short trips so the sights are limited. But I did enjoyed seeing your destination from a far, and seeing it closer and closer.

I would sure love to be on big ships ala-Titanic on longer sea travel. From what I heard, spending time inside the ship is an experience in itself and view would be nice in calm weather. It presents longer time to take enjoy beautiful place, take more photos and simply chat with companions during the journey. I envy those who have provinces to go to during vacation and been accustomed to sea travel.

Barring being sea-sick or rough waters, I pray that I may be able to tour the Philippines via sea travel in the near future.

World Class Fireworks Seen at the 2011 PyroMusical International Competition at Mall of Asia

2011-03-15T13:52:00.001+08:00

I, together with GF Tintin, former MH housemates and new alumni friend Judith, tried to catch the last day of the 2011 PyroMusical Competition at the Mall of Asia grounds last Saturday evening and get a glimpse of world class fireworks.

The Philippine International Pyromusical Competition
Image collated from official website

The 2nd Philippine International Pyromusical Competition ran from Februay 12 - March 12, 2011 at the SM Mall of Asia, the country’s top lifestyle mall by the scenic Manila Bay. The annual event put on a never-before-seen spectacle of lights and colors where the night sky and sea meet as staged by the world’s leading pyrotechnic experts.

As usual, traffic proved to be a killjoy, for us. We didn't even reached the grounds of Mall of Asia. As the jeepney we took was virtually parked on the road because of the traffic, we just joined a crowd of people in a vacant grassy lot along Macapagal highway, in between Blue Wave and the Toyota Service Center.

The following pics are just what we came up, courtesy of GF Tintin's cellphone camera:

As Philippines was scheduled last, we caught a good part of the presentation. And even from a far, some cheers, oohs! and claps can be heard from the sizable crowd amongst us.

I bet if we could just view closer and longer, we could've definitely witnessed world class fireworks.

We are all looking forward to 2012 Pyromusical Competition. And we vow, not to let traffic get in the way of viewing world class fireworks.

:)

Let Us all Help Japan Recover from the 8.9 Quake/Tsunami, Install Help Japan Toolbar in Your Blogs/Websites

2011-03-12T17:37:00.002+08:00

I have two sisters permanently residing in Japan. I really thank God that they and their respective families were not in harm's way in yesterday's 8.9 Japan Quake and the tsunami that followed. I've also been there thrice.

When I read about Mashable's post, - calling every one who runs a site to use their influence to help Japanese people struggling to recover from yesterday’s devastating natural disasters - I immediately heeded their call.

Check the top portion of this blog right now. You can now see bar there.

If you are also interested in placing a bar like that in your blog/website, click here for the instructions.

This is my simple way of showing support to the country that blessed my family. You too can help. Either directly giving donations or simply spreading the word about the Japan Quake & Tsunami.

Also, to advocate earthquake preparedness.

Earthquake Preparedness is Now A Must

2011-03-11T21:50:00.003+08:00

Unlike typhoons, Earthquakes can not be forecasted. And in the recent spate of earthquakes worldwide, I think it is timely to evaluate our earthquake preparedness.

We are all aware of the recent earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand and today, in the Miyagi Prefecture in Japan. The Philippines is situated in what is known as the Pacific Ring of Fire that makes it prone to earthquakes.

I checked with our government's department that deals with earthquakes, the Phivolcs or Philippine Institute of Volcanology & Seismology. Its website offers an Earthquake Preparedness Guide in PDF format here. I am posting its contents here, in case the Phivolcs website is unavailable.

BEFORE an Earthquake:
A. The key to effective disaster prevention is planning:

Know the earthquake hazards in your area.
Follow structural design and engineering practices when constructing a house or building.
Evaluate the structural soundness of the buildings and houses; strengthen or retrofit if necessary.

B. Prepare your homes, workplaces and schools:

Strap or bolt heavy furnitures/cabinets to the walls.
Check the stability of hanging objects like ceiling fans and chandeliers.
Breakable items, harmful chemicals and flammable materials should be stored properly in the lowermost secured shelves.

C. Familiarize yourself with the exit routes.

D. Know where fire extinguishers, first aid kits, alarms, and communication faicilities are located. Learn how to use them beforehand.

Prepare a handy emergency supply kit with first aid kit, canned food and can opener, water, clothing, blanket, battery-operated radio, flashlights and extra batteries.
E. Conduct and participate regular earthquake drills.

DURING an Earthquake:
A. Stay Calm.

B. When you are INSIDE a structurally sound building or home... STAY THERE!

If possible quickly open the door for exit.
Duck under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on to it, or protect your head with your arms.
Stay away from glass windows, shelves, cabinets and other heavy objects.
Beware of falling objects. Be Alert and keep your eyes open.

C. If you're OUTSIDE.. move to an open area!

Stay away from trees, powerlines, posts and concrete structures.
Move away from steep slopes which may be affected by landslides.
If you're near the shore and felt an earthquake, especially if it's too strong, move quikly to higher grounds. Tsunamis might follow.

D. If you're in a moving vehicle, STOP and get out! Do not attempt to cross bridges, overpasses, or flyovers which may have been damaged.

AFTER an Earthquake:
A. Be prepared for aftershocks. Once the shaking stops, take the fastest and safest way out of the building.

Don't use elevators
Don't enter damaged buidlings
Don't use telephones unless necessary.
Don't Panic.
Check yourself and others for injuries.
Check water and electrical lines for damages.
Check for spills of chemical, toxic and flammable materials.
Control fires which may spread.

B. If you need to evacuate your residence, leave a message stating where you are going and bring your emergency supply kit.

C. Keep updated on disater prevention instructions from battery-operated radios.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) also provide Earthquake preparedness tips. Check the following links:

How about you? What steps do you take regarding Earthquake preparedness?

Php 99 Musical Fountain Show at Manila Ocean Park

2011-03-09T07:20:00.005+08:00

I was on board a bus going through EDSA when a billboard in Guadalupe caught my attention. It was about the Php 99 Musical Fountain Show at the Manila Ocean Park.

The Manila Ocean Park is offering its Musical Fountain Show for only Php 99 until March 31, 2011. It promises a multi-sensory spectacle for every one this Summer. An affordable attraction right within the city!

P99 Musical Fountain Show
Image from Manila Ocean Park Website

When I got home, I immediately checked at the Manila Ocean Park website and really glad I did.

The Manila Ocean Park indeed has a Musical Fountain Show and provides it to the public at a promo price of Php 99. Luckily, it is extended until March 31, 2011. The show is daily and starts at 6:30 pm.

Another good thing about the Php 99 Musical Fountain Show promo is that an SMS coupon can be availed via cellphone which can be paid and claimed at the Acquatica Ticket Booth (for only Php 99) on the day that you want to watch it.

Terms & Conditions:

Resistration Booth provided inside Manila Ocean Park is only for receiving sms coupon and not for online payment using credit card.
Seat is on a First Come, First Serve Basis.
Tickets must be claimed and availed only within the promo period.
Unclaimed tickets will not be subject to cash refund.
Promo must not be availed in conjunction with other existing promo or discount.

I immediately registered and received the following SMS notification:

Show this SMS @ Acquatica Ticket Booth Pay P99 for Musical Fountain Show. Per DTI-NCR Permit#0409,S-2011. Promo til 3/31/11. Save Ref.Code:1380482

Sender: OCEANPARK

This is a nice treat to people living in Manila and nearby cities. I will blog about my experience in the P99 Musical Fountain Show at the Manila Ocean Park soon. :)

Can You Travel Using PayPal Solely?

2011-03-07T23:26:00.003+08:00

I know Paypal is a payment facility for online transactions but I become curious at the idea of using Paypal for travel.

Have you used your paypal account for travel?

I received an e-mail today about how paypal can make our travel transactions easy. But I wonder if if anyone can travel using Paypal alone.

Airline transportation would be a breeze with Paypal. Maybe if you transact with a travel agency that accepts payment via Paypal, that can be considered traveling solely using Paypal. But I don't see yet any significant advantage of paypal over credit cards and of course cash.

It is sure nice to imagine going places transacting online via Paypal. That could only be a reality for me if I can accumulate more than $25.60 dollars that my account currently shows.

Musings over Mercedes Group of Islands Summer Get-Away

2011-03-02T19:06:00.001+08:00

It rained today but I think the season of summer is here upon us. Good friend Chips has opened the idea of an island hopping get-away along the Mercedes Group of Islands in Camarines Norte this summer.

Ambro, good friend to both us, is coming to town this week. And Friday was set for us to talk about our impending summer getaway. He currently resides in Camarines Norte and will basically be our guide on this island hopping adventure in the Mercedes Group of Islands.

It's been a while since I got out of town and I'm looking forward to this trip. I am so giddy & excited that I eagerly researched about the Mercedes Group of Island in the net.

The Mercedes group of Islands is composed of 7 islands namely: Canimog, Apuao Pequeña, Apuao Grande, Canton, Malasugui, Caringo and Quinapaguian.

Mercedes Group of Islands
Image from BackpackingPhilippines

Major attractions in these islands are its clean white beaches, corrals, underwate sceneries, rock formation and fish sanctuary. Apart from swimming and island hopping, I am also looking forward to camping out overnight in one of the islands. It has been years since I enjoyed hiking/mountain climbing.

REFERENCES:

The group of islands is not yet a major tourist spot but rivals the more popular destinations in terms of pristine beauty. That would be a good thing for us to further enjoy the islands to ourselves. I just hope that Ambro would be generous enough make our accomodations free. :) So that all I need to take care of are transportation and enjoying island hopping in Mercedes Group of Islands.

Café Jeepney Dinner Buffet, 50% Coupon from eBay

2011-03-02T18:07:00.001+08:00

I received via e-mail today a coupon offering from eBay regarding a 50% Dinner Buffet at Café Jeepney. The coupon basically offers a dinner buffet at Café Jeepney, normally priced @ Php 1616, for only Php 808.

Café Jeepney is the famous coffee shop and restaurant at the InterContinental Manila hotel. Its dinner buffet offers a mouth-watering mix of both local and international cuisine, including live cooking and carving stations.

Dinner Buffet @ Café Jeepney
50% Coupon from eBay

I am sharing it here because I think that it is a good option for people looking to experience fine dining in the city. Apart from the dinner buffet, Café Jeepney has a luscious variety of cakes available - from Apple Walnut Caramel Crumble to Black Forest, Champagne White Chocolate Croustillant and more. Right next to it is the Jeepney Deli Shop with a wide range of delicatessen, breads, pastries, cheese, wines, chocolates and gift items like mugs and miniature jeepneys.

Café Jeepney is at the Ground Level of InterContinental Manila Hotel located in 1 Ayala Avenue, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines. Persons interested with the coupon can call (02) 793 7000 loc 771 and 772.

The 50% Dinner Buffet @ Café Jeepney can be found HERE. I am just reposting the following important details:

Coupons are valid from March 10 to May 09, 2011; 60 days
Need to have minimum of < 50 > sold coupons in order for the deal to be ON/ ACTIVE
Will accept 2000 maximum buyers/ sold coupons for the restaurant.
NO Limit coupon per person.
Price is inclusive of VAT and Service Charge
No cash back or credit for any unused amount
Coupons cannot be used in conjunction with any discount card or promotion
Bill in excess of the coupon value shall be paid directly to Café Jeepney
Valid from 6PM to 11 PM Monday to Saturday
Valid for Dinner Buffet ONLY ( Eat all you can )
Dine in Only
Coupons/Gift Certificates are transferable and can be used as Gifts
Any number of coupons can be used per visit
BEVERAGES or DRINKS are not included.
Prior reservation is encouraged to guarantee seats. Call Cafe Jeepney at 793-7000.

Perhaps in the next few days, I can be the person next to you, enjoying the dinner buffet at Café Jeepney.

I missed another Clark Hot Air Balloon Festival

2011-02-15T08:15:00.005+08:00

3 years ago, best friend Ranel shared his valentines date with wife Enid at the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Clarkfield, Pampanga. The hopeless romantic that I am, I have longed to bring my special girl to such festival as well.

Clark 2011 Hot Air Balloon/Air Show
Image taken from here.

As fate would have it, I missed another year of enjoying this aerial spectacle. The Clark 2011 Hot Air Balloon/Air Show just concluded last week. Aargh!

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That Darth Vader hot air balloon would definitely bring me to another high.

The closest I got to going was last year. I initially I wanted to ride in one of those beautiful looking hot air balloons. But when I saw in magazine that the cost is way beyond my wallet's capability, I decided to settle just watching from the ground.

When I brought up the idea with Ranel in February some time last year, he said that I should have reserved accomodations way, way before. He said that it would be ideal if we could be in Clark the night before as the flight of the hot air balloons is scheduled early next day.

It's good thing that I kept the plan under wraps. Other wise my words would just hot gas that is only good for those hot air balloons.

I'm looking forward to the 2012 Clark Hot Air Balloon Festival and beginning now, I'm trying to reach friends who are close to the venue.

Victory Liner Online Booking Service

2011-02-01T07:56:00.010+08:00

Victory Liner, one of the largest provincial bus companies in the Philippines, is now providing online booking for its passengers. Passengers can reserve a ticket online and have the ticket delivered right at their doorsteps.

Image from Wikipedia

Key details about the Victory Liner's Online Booking service.

Currently offered for Baguio & Cagayan valley trips, ticket reservations can be made for trips 8 days prior to the date of the trip.
Passengers need to accomplish an online seat reservation form and wait for a reply from a Victory Liner customer service officer.
The reply will include a passenger subscriber number, the total ammount to be made and payment instructions.
Passengers need to make the payment at the nearest Metrobank branch no later that the next banking day.
Passengers will then need to either fax a copy of the bank validated payment slip or e-mail a scanned copy.
Victory Liner will respond with the seat assignment and waybill number. The waybill number is for tracking the delivery of tickets.
Passengers need only wait for the tickets to be delivered to them.

Here's the complete info about Victory Liners online ticket reservation service.

This is a welcome development for traveling to the province by bus. I'm sure passengers will welcome the significantly lessened hassle in buying bus tickets. Getting the tickets delivered is good but I feel it would be better if I can just claim my tickets right at the bus terminal on the day of my departure. Also, perhaps choosing a specific seat will be incorporated in this service. Personally, I like the seat beside the window.

I am not sure if Victory Liner is the first to offer online booking among Philippine bus companies, but it would be good for Philippine tourism if all bus companies have this service.

I also learned that Victory Liner Deluxe buses have free wifi.

Check out Ibon Ebon Festival this February 2011

2011-01-31T21:48:00.005+08:00

The Ibon Ebon festival (Birds and Eggs festival) is a unique and colorful event which celebrates Candaba's eco-tourism, being home to thousand of migratory birds, and showcases its local duck-egg industry through various activities.

Image via Flickr, courtesy of jhayzapi
Photo taken at last year's Ibon Ebon Festival

Over the weekend, I just learned from a Sunday newspaper, of a unique event called the Ibon-Ebon Festival.

It is a colorful event celebrated in Candaba, Pampanga showcasing this municipality as a haven of choice for thousands of migratory birds including rare bird species and its very own duck-egg industry.

This year's celebration of the Ibon-Ebon festival will be on February 4 & 5, 2011. Bird watchers & nature-lovers in general will surely enjoy the bird watching tours, swamp & river cruise, parade and "bird-kite" flying among other planned activities.

PLDT & Smart are part of the information drive about the festival. And I share their call to rediscover the northern part of the country beginning with this Philippine festival.

The Ibon Ebon festival is one of the unique celebrations that we can promote and further develop. It even has an ecological aspect in it in these times of environmental awareness and care.

Here's a video of the Ibon Ebon Festival last year.

Foreign Tourist Arrivals in 2010 All Time High - AFP Reported

2011-01-29T10:07:00.005+08:00

It was reported that an all-time high of 3.52 million foreign tourists trooped to the Philippines in 2010.

Agence France-Presse reported via Yahoo news, that the Philippine tourism enjoyed a great year in 2010. The country received 3.52 million foreign tourists last year, an all-time high.

In November 2010, projections were optimistic that the tourism sector will reach its target. I am really glad that it turned a lot more. Last year's number of foreign tourist arrivals broke the 2008 record of 3.14 million. South Koreans are our number one visitors last year. No wonder I see a lot of them here in the Ortigas Business District.

Truly, our country has a lot to offer. Here's a glimpse of what tourists can experience.

Aside from that, the country will soon become a major medical tourism destination.

I thank all the foreigners who took the time to visit our country and I hope you spread the word about our wonderful country.

I would like to borrow some words from this article:

Every day serves a smaller purpose for a larger goal -- a goal that can never officially be enjoyed, because, instantly, it becomes about the ensuing goal.

Yes, I pray that the country can achieve the target of 3.7 Million foreign tourist arrivals this year.

Let's go, Philippines. We Can!

Medical Tourist Visas for Foreigners Seeking Medical Procedures in the Philippines

2011-01-21T15:30:00.006+08:00

The plan of the Bureau of Immigration to issue medical tourist visas to foreigners is indeed a very welcome news.

The medical tourist visas, to be introduced this year, will allow foreigners to stay in the country for six months without having to apply for extensions as regular tourists are required to do, according to the Bureau of Immigration.
- ABS-CBN News

Medical tourism can really help our tourism sector and the Philippines in general. And it is about time that Filipinos in medical profession shine in our own backyard.

The plan can definitely increase the number of foreign tourists that will visit the country. I'm sure aside from the medical procedures that they will seek, these medical tourists would also be interested in a little r & r (rest and relaxation) for the duration of their medical tourist visa. Of which, the Philippines have a lot to offer.

Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo

2011-01-02T22:50:00.002+08:00

I was waiting to board the LRT when this Dinagyang Festival poster at the nearby wall caught my attention.

I just like to help in spreading the word about the world-reknowned Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo this January 2011.

The Dinagyang is a religious and cultural festival in Iloilo City, Philippines held on the fourth Sunday of January. - Wikipedia

This year's festivities will be on January 21 - 23. I would have to say let's head down south in Iloilo and take part of this glorious Philippine religious and cultural tradition.

This is a shout-out for www.dinagyangsailoilo.com

Philippine Holidays 2011

2010-12-21T17:58:00.000+08:00

Fellow Filipinos can now start their travel plans after the Philippine Holidays of 2011 was relased yesterday.

Filipinos can now start their travel plans for next year as President Noy Aquino signed Proclamation No. 84 - declaring the regular holidays, special non-working days, and special holiday for the year 2011.

Regular Holidays

New Year’s Day – January 1 (Saturday)
Araw ng Kagitingan – April 9 (Saturday)
Maundy Thursday – April 21
Good Friday – April 22
Labor Day – May 1 (Sunday)
Independence Day – June 12 (Sunday)
National Heroes Day – August 29 (Last Monday of August)
Bonifacio Day – November 30 (Wednesday)
Christmas Day – December 25 (Sunday)
Rizal Day – December 30 (Friday)

Special (Non-Working) Days

Ninoy Aquino Day – August 21 (Sunday)
All Saints Day – November 1 (Tuesday)
Last Day of the Year – December 31 (Saturday)

Special Holiday (for all schools)

EDSA Revolution Anniversary – February 25 (Friday)

The dates for the Islamic holidays Eid’l Fitr and Eidul Adha, both are also national holidays will still be determined by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) in accordance with the Islamic or lunar calendar.

I am one those who are glad that President Aquino will not be moving the day of commemorating/celebrating these holidays of 2011. It is hard enough to inculcate the meaning of these holidays. Changing the days of no work, all the more lessens the relevance of these dates to our culture.

But for those who already have plans, I pray and hope they will include touring the Philippines in their travel itineraries for 2011..

via ABS-CBN News
Full text of Proclamation 84

Good News: Foreigners Continue To Visit And Tour the Philippines

2010-11-16T17:45:00.006+08:00

Numbers from the Bureau of Immigration showed that foreign arrivals have in fact increased by 17% compared to the same period last year.

Here's a glimpse of the Philippines, where tourists can surely enjoy staying.

This in itself is good news considering that the hostage fiasco and the successive travel ban advisories against the country have put the Philippines in a bad light and its tourism in peril.

Records show that top foreign nationals coming to the Philippines were Americans, South Koreans, Japanese and Chinese.

The Philippines is generally peaceful, its hospitality known the world over. Tourists are most welcome to flock to our beautiful country.

Source via Yahoo News Philippines

Puerto Princesa Underground River tops Latest New 7 Wonders of the World Polls

2010-09-20T18:40:00.001+08:00

Finally some good news for the Philippines. The latest poll of the New 7 Wonders of the World showed that our very own Puerto Princesa Underground River on top.

I am really glad that I have done my share, by voting and spreading the word to vote for Palawan's Subterranean river thru this small blog.

Fellow countrymen all over the world, let us show solidarity in promoting the good that can be found in our country and continue support our cause in campaigns such as the search for the new seven wonders of the world.

The famed underground river in Palawan is competing against 27 other natural wonders. Every support is needed and will count.

Let's go dear Kababayans! Support the Puerto Princesa Underground River and spread the word.

Our Company's First Summer Getaway at Munting Buhangin Beach Resort

2010-06-10T21:18:00.008+08:00

Our company chose the Munting Buhangin Beach Resort in Nasugbu, Batangas for its very first summer outing last May 29-30. Coincidentally, it was also my first company-sponsored summer outing.

We left the company premises excitedly before lunch, on-board two-rented vans enroute to the resort. Along the way, we had a brief snack stop over at the Mushroom Burger in Tagaytay. I am not a big fan of mushrooms but I saw my officemates enjoyed the food.

After about 4 hours, we finally reached our destination. The line of vehicles waiting to enter the resort, the almost-full parking.. whoa! Summer is still on.

Upon disembarking, we were welcomed by a not-so-welcoming descent as we are carrying a lot of things. Oh well, no pain, no gain. Hehehe!!

It was late afternoon already, so we set up our things and prepared for dinner. Here are some of the accomodations in the Munting Buhangin Beach camp.

After I've done my share in the preparation, I tried volleyball at the beach for the very first time with my officemates as the sun started to set.

Only darkness made us stop and eagerly prepared for a promising sumptous boodle-fight dinner.

For a night cap, we shared a laugh-all-the-while bonding session I would like to call inuman para sa kinabukasan (drinking until tomorrow). Hehehe!!!

Manila - Top Tourist Destination 1st Quarter 2010

2010-05-20T21:27:00.003+08:00

The City of Manila emerged as the top tourist destination of the country for the first quarter of 2010 according to the Department of Tourism's quarterly report.

Image Source

The number of tourists that came to Manila grew by 37% and is credited to international and local meetings, congresses and conventions. The report also said that opening of new sights like the Manila Oceanarium and Newport Entertainment City plus visits from cruise ships contributed to the increase.

Source

New Seven Wonders of the World - Vote for Puerto Princesa Underground River

2010-04-25T22:30:00.004+08:00

I just voted for Puerto Princesa Underground River . It is among the 21 official nominees for the selection of the new seven wonders of nature in the world.

Photo taken from Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Wikipedia page.

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located about 50 km north of the city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. It features a limestone karst mountain landscape with an 8.2 km. navigable underground river. A distinguishing feature of the river is that it winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea. It includes major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and several large chambers. The lower portion of the river is subject to tidal influences. The underground river is reputed to be the world's longest. At the mouth of the cave, a clear lagoon is framed by ancient trees growing right to the water's edge. Monkeys, large monitor lizards, and squirrels find their niche on the beach near the cave. Source

I was just watching the PBA All-star Weekend 3 point shoot-out which was being held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. The commentators were encouraging everyone who were watching to show their support and vote for the subterranean river to be included in the prestigious seven wonders of nature. So, I did it my part.

Back in 2008, when there were more nominees, I also voted for the Tubbataha Reef, the Chocolate Hills and the Mayon Volcano.

Good thing that this underground river of Puerto Princesa was among the finalist. If it will be chosen as one of the world's new seven wonders of nature, I will definitely, visit it. That is the ultimate support that I can give.

Click the link and vote for your own New 7 wonders of Nature in the world now!

Journey to the Ilocos Region - Day 1

2009-09-14T12:21:00.013+08:00

Fresh from an exciting CDO-Camiguin trip down south, my girlfriend learned of Cebu Pacific's promo to Laoag in April. She, then, decided that our next tour will be a journey to the Ilocos region in August coinciding with her birthday.

Technically, Ilocos Region is comprised of many other provinces in the present geographical setup. But our planned journey will only cover Ilocos Norte & Ilocos Sur, home of the native Ilocanos.

Soon, we just found ourselves boarding Cebu Pacific's late afternoon flight 5J 404 enroute to Laoag airport on the last friday of August. One and a half hour later, we hired a tricycle to bring us to downtown Laoag to meet a high school buddy.

Along the way, we sped fast a bridge seeing the provincial capitol building with a busy night market. We also passed by Laoag's Sinking Bell Tower.

When me met my buddy Andrew, he eagerly encouraged us to try out the famed special Ilocos Empanada, even boasting its the best in the region. A piece costs only 32 php and will make your tummy feel it has eaten a hearty meal.

After which, we set out to Vigan City. Andrew said it is more beautiful to see the spanish-influenced cobblestoned streets there at night. So, we took a two-hour bus ride from Laoag to Vigan City via Partas Bus.
Upon arriving in, we checked in our belongings to Gordion Hotel and walked our way to the famed Calle Crisologo. Since it was already past 9 pm, we had the street almost to ourselves.

The sight we've previously seen only in the movies is right before eyes. It was indeed a walk back in the time of the Spanish period.

Andrew accompanied us and generously took our pictures. But he has to return to Manila that same night. We tag along with him to the Florida bus station where we get to buy special bibinka from Marsha's Delicacies.

After we said goodbye to Andrew, we return to Calle Crisologo and took pictures to our heart's content. We will post sights of Vigan at night next. After that, we concluded the Day 1 of our journey to the Ilocos Region, retiring at Gordion's Inn.

Canon Digital IXUS 95 IS - Companion in touring the Philippines

2009-06-14T04:43:00.011+08:00

I finally have a companion in touring my beloved Philippines - a CANON Digital IXUS 95 IS.

The past few months kept me in the city because of the usual busy sked and the unpredictable weather. A blessing in disguise of sorts as it allowed me the opportunity to look on the market for my own digital camera.

Now that I have my own, I, therefore, would like to thank my friends who generous lent theirs to me that allowed me to capture parts of my previous travels.

Here are some of the features of my green CANON Digital IXUS 95 IS taken from here:

Compact and stylish 10 Megapixel IXUS design in four colour variations*
3.0x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer
Scene Detection Technology
Anti-Blur
Face Detection Technology
DIGIC 4
2.5” PureColor LCD II
i-Contrast
17 shooting modes
VGA movies

I am looking forward to filling my blog entries with pictures taken from my CANON Digital IXUS 95 IS. For now, I am thinking of giving it a name.

Any suggestions?

UPDATE:
Feeling awkward being behind the lens because of shaky hands? Fear no no more. Take a look at the 3 of the best pocket digital cameras with the best anti-shake features.

Top Dive Centre - Philippines

2009-05-03T08:54:00.009+08:00

Image taken from HERE.

Here is another good reason to tour the Philippines - it is now one of the preferred dive centres in the world. This is proven by the number of awards it garnered from the largest diving fair in Asia, the 17th Marine Diving Fair in Tokyo, Japan.

I was ridding my room of some of its clutter when I came across an old issue of Manila Bulletin. In its Travel & Tourism section, it reported that the Philippines bested other top international dive centre in the said diving fair. Among the awards it won were;

Top 5 Diving Area
Top 10 Most Desirable Destination
Best Dive Resort (Bohol Tropics)
Favorite Dive Operator (Blue Coral Resort, Cebu)

The diving fair was participated by 65 countries represented by various destinations and tourism-related companies and it attracted close to 100, 000 visitors.

The Philippines is now at par with other top diving centres in the world like Maldives, Palau, Saipan, French Polynesia, Guam and three islands from Japan (Mizako, Zamami and Ishigaki).

This is a happy development as the Philippines is being recognized in the dive tourism niche. The Philippines boasts of a diverse marine life that can surely fulfill every diver's fantasy.

If you are planning to take a dive, why not try any of the dive centres in the Philippines. ;)

How much of the Philippines have you visited?

2009-05-01T00:35:00.001+08:00

This Tour the Philippines blog is explicitly advocating to fellow Filipinos not be strangers to their own motherland. Know how much of the Philippines have you visited through Eugene Alvin Villar's Lakbayan Test.

Just tried it now, and it obviously showed that I have to travel more to discover more of my own beloved country.

The colored portions of the maps shows the places in the Philippines where I have already been. I am at a disadvantage for not having a province to go to during vacation from studies.

My Lakbayan grade is D!

My grade is only a poor D. I intend to do something about it starting this year. How about you?

Reminiscing Baguio City - Philippines' Premier Summer Tourist Spot

2009-04-18T03:18:00.009+08:00

It's SUMMER and when you want to escape the city life and this super sweltering heat, Baguio City comes to mind amongst the Philippines' numerous tourist spots. In fact, Baguio City is the Summer Capital of the country.

Aside from being a Philippine Premiere Summer Tourist Spot, Baguio City is also known for the Panagbenga Flower Festival.

Some of my friends have recently been there that I can't help but reminisce my own trips to Baguio City.

So far, I have only been there twice.

The first one was a disaster. I was invited by the mother of my Grade 2 classmate to join them for a weekend in Baguio. When we reached the city, I got sick. The kind family had no choice but to cut short the trip because of me. All I can recall is that we boarded the Philippine Rabbit bus line, the Lion's head and Burnham park. Only later in life did my classmate then shared to me that she and her sisters were kinda upset with me because of it.

My more recent trip to Baguio City was 3 years ago. It was way, way better compared to my first because I was with the love of my life. We were barely starting out then and it was our very first out of town trip.

It was a late Monday morning when we booked a Victory Liner Trip to Baguio City. When we arrived, we immediately looked for La Brea Inn, settled in, bought some stuffs we forgot to bring at SM Baguio, had some dinner and called it a day.

The following day we went to see Baguio Church, Mine's View, The Mansion, the Botanical Garden, Wright Park and the Philippine Military Academy.

Our last day is not as fortunate. After conquering the hundred step staircase going up to the Grotto, rain poured over the city. We had no choice but to cut short our sightseeing. We just decided then to go to the public market and bought some souvenirs for pasalubong. A late lunch at Rose bowl proved to be our send off because after that we were on our return ride to Manila.

Indeed, Baguio City is the Philippines' tourist spot to be in during the Summer. And I am glad I have been there.

Happy Easter!

2009-04-13T08:20:00.006+08:00

Happy Easter everyone!

I hope you had a meaningful long vacation.

I, on my part, had a not so good long weekend. Our trip to Mt. Maculot in Batangas never materialized because of scheduling problems. :( I was really looking forward of completing the 14 Stations of the Cross there.

I can't help but miss my Visita Iglesia days with my college buddies.

The highlight of the week for me is the Last Supper mass together with my significant other at the St. Peter Parish in Commonwealth Ave., Quezon City.

Hopefully, our plan for a nearby tour will push through before the month is over.

***Photo is taken from and linked back here.

Tour the Philippines during these Long Holidays

2009-03-30T23:02:00.007+08:00

I just like to call upon my fellow Filipinos to utilize these long holidays to tour the Philippines.

We could help our country during the present economic woes while enjoying ourselves if we spend our hard-earned money on the Philippines' numerous tourist spots.

Here are the Holidays declared by the Government for 2009:

Araw ng Kagitingan
April 4 - 6, Saturday - Monday

Holy Week
April 9 - 12, Thursday - Sunday

Labor Day
May 1- 3, Friday - Sunday

Independence Day
June 12 - 14, Friday - Sunday

Ninoy Aquino Day
August 21 - 23, Friday - Sunday

National Heroes Day
August 29 - 31, Saturday - Monday

All Saints' Day
October 31 - November 2, Saturday - Monday

Bonifacio Day
November 28 - 30, Saturday - Monday

Christmas Eve
December 24 - 27, Thursday - Sunday

Rizal Day/New Year's Eve
December 30, 2009 - January 3, 2010 , Wednesday - Sunday

The Philippines beauty is known the world over. There is so much in here that rivals those from other countries to choose from. Remember that as you enjoy your vacation, the money you spent will boost the domestic tourism's revenue.

You can go whitewater rafting in Cagayan de Oro, frolicked at nearby Batangas beach resorts, splurge at the world-famous white sands of Boracay and a lot more. You can choose from the Philippines top travel spots or discover new sites that are yet to be explored.

Support March 28 Earth Hour

2009-03-23T20:54:00.010+08:00

The preservation of Earth is every man's responsibility. Let us do our share by supporting the March 28 Earth Hour.

At 8:30 to 9:30 pm, let us simultaneously turn off the lights and unused appliances in our homes. By doing so we can help reduce carbon emissions coming from our electrical appliances.

I think it was 2007 when I heard about this initiative. And I honestly participated by turning off all the lights and appliances in my room. I failed to convince my family to do the same though.:(

Hopefully, this Saturday, I could convince more to participate. How about you?

Remember that when we participate in pro-environment initiatives, we help in protecting our planet, prolonging its existence so that our children and grandchildren can also enjoy what we had.

Let us then support the Earth Hour 2009 on March 28, 2009. Turn-off our lights & appliances from 8:30 - 9:30 pm.

What is one hour of missing your favorite tv show?, your online chatting? your internet surfing? Compared to a healthier environment?

Cagayan De Oro Tour: Macahambus Cave

2009-03-16T22:22:00.013+08:00

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour

Day 4

After our fear-conquering experience at the skybridges and zipline, our next stop is about nature and history - the Macahambus Cave.

The Macahambus Cave is at the Macahambus Hill. Filipino spelunkers would surely like this cave's picturesque cavern and at the same time feel some national pride because of its historical significance.

The cave provided strategic location because of its elevation and view of the Cagayan de Oro river. That is perhaps the main reason why Filipinos won the Battle of Macahambus Hill in 1900 against the Americans. That was the first ever victory of the Filipinos over the Americans.

The cave is dark inside so the overhead flash lights over by kids came in handy. For about some 5-10 meter walk, at some point you have to stoop, you will then reach a veranda like platform overlooking the Cagayan de Oro river and the whitewater rafters nearing their disembarkation point. The kids will gladly took our pictures. We rewarded the 3 kids with Php 50.

After Manong Rey brought us to SM Cagayan De Oro where we had a light snack and whil away some time before going to Lumbia Airport to take our flight home.

Cagayan De Oro Tour: Macahambus Adventure Park

2009-03-07T01:43:00.013+08:00

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour
Day 4

We thought we already missed the chance to go to Macahambus Adventure Park in Cagayan de Oro in Day 1 and resigned to that fate.

After checking out from Lamar Inn before noon, we have some time before our return flight to Manila. So we thought, we just hang around SM CDO to kill time.

So, we hailed a taxi and soon enough the driver talked us into finishing our Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin Tour with a bang - an exhilarating experience at the Macahambus Adventure Park.

Manong Rey was the driver of the cab. While traveling we shared to him that we missed going to Macahambus and try the zipline and sky bridge. He convinced us that our time, effort and money for this tour would be more worth it if we experience Macahambus, especially that it would only take little time. Of course, we suspected that his suggestion would entail a larger rate. We agreed on 300 Php, inclusive of the travel from downtown CDO, to Macahambus Park and then to SM CDO. We found that fair enough.

When we reached the adventure, a class of students was there as part of their own tour. We have no choice then but take pictures as we wait. Hehehe!!!

Finally, its our turn to cross the Skybridge. The Skybridge is a 123 meter long bridge suspended 150 meters above a gorge that I failed to see the bottom. It is divided into 2 sections.

With a harness looking secure, I never really felt as afraid as in the whitewater rafting adventure. At the time, only two of us are crossing that is why less vibration on the bridge.
True, you will get apprehensive when you look down, because you'll notice that the wood you are stepping on has a gap in the middle.

Finally, we reached the hyped Zipline. It is a 120 meter slide with the same gorge beneath. Unfortunately, perhaps due to our excitement and eagerness, we never thought of shooting some pics while riding the zipline. Soon, we were sliding through the cable feeling the rush of air. If I may say, the zipline ride is a bit short.

For a non-adventurous guy like me, the experience was liberating. I encourage you to try it the moment you had the chance. Manong Rey shared that he had never tried it even though he lives near the place.

To give you an idea, here's a picture of zipping through the cable.

If you ever come CDO's way, don't missed the chance to try what Macahambus Adventure Park has to offer.

Expenses

Taxi - Php 350 ( from downtown CDO to Macahambus to SM CDO) + Php 50 tip)
Adventure Fee - Php 600 ( Php 300/head)
Total : Php 950

Tips

We felt some insect bites during the adventure. So, we advise you to apply insect repellant lotion before doing the adventure. Do not forget to take pictures on all the adventure. If you decide to go there in a pair like us, we suggest each of you have his/her own camera.

Cagayan de Oro-Camiguin, Philippines Tour: Day 3

2009-03-03T02:15:00.011+08:00

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin Tour Day 3

After our trip to White Island in Camiguin, we had shower and packed our stuff to make our way back to CDO.Again, we rented a multicab to bring us again to the Port of Benoni. We were again referred by Frank to his cousin, Adon.

First, we asked Adon to bring us to Kan-anan sa Parola for our brunch. Perhaps out of shyness, he declined our offer for him to join us. After our meal, we had some pictures taken at the Parola. We would have wanted to climb the old lighthouse but Adon said it is not allowed anymore as the structure is already old and weak.

Our next stop was Vjandep Bakery to buy the famed Pastel of Camiguin.

Pastel is a Spanish term for cake. It was part of Camiguin's cuisine for special occasions in 17th century and commercialized only on 1990. It is a locally made bun win flavored fillings, originally yema flavored. It was a hobby turned to a profitable business venture and now a pride of Camiguin. By the way, VJANDEP stand for Virgilio Jose And Eleanor Popera, the family that reformulated the pastel to what it is now.

We, then, asked Adon to bring us to the port of Benoni. Here are some pics along the way.

This is our ferry leaving Port Benoni. Goodbye for now, Camiguin!

We arrived around and 11 am and had to wait for the 12 noon ferry ride back to Balingoan. The ferry ride this time is a bit rough as waves are a bit greater.

From Balingoan, we took Bachelor Express bus again towards CDO. At first, I put the baggages on the top compartment. But as the bus ride went along the zigzag roads, I put it down for fear that it may fall down to other passengers. Despite the zigzag roads, the bus navigate through swiftly.

We then reached downtown CDO and look for our next place to stay. The LAMAR INN. This is some 3 block walk from Grand City Hotel but cheaper. The room given to us is spacious but seemed very old for 850 Php.

As we had some time to spare, we went to Lim Ket Kai mall for some shopping.

CDO - Camiguin Tour: White Island

2009-03-03T00:34:00.010+08:00

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour
Day 3

White Island is one of the premiere destinations in Camiguin. Aptly called, it is a shadeless patch of white sand off the coast of Mambjao, Camiguin. Ideal for lovers of the sea, White Island is a great place for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. Its clear sea waters will allow you to admire coral reefs below.
Here is why going to White Island will leave an indelible mark in our memories forever.

To reach White Island, one needs to rent a boat to bring them from the coast of Mambajao to the island. In our case, we rented a boat, referred by Frank and prearranged the night before. Due to our excitement, we awoke early and even forego breakfast. A few steps from Pabuas, we walked to the shore where our boat is waiting.

I am not a fan of boats myself but I heaved a sigh of relief to know that the one we'll use has at least katig. Plus, the sea water was mostly still added to my comfort.

The ride was just less than 10 minutes, and soon we are walking on a crescent shape patch of white sand with no tree or any erected structure whatsoever. Once there, you would have a picturesque of view of the mountainous island of Camiguin.

We were blessed to go there on low tide that you can walk on clear shallow water with lots of corrals beneath your feet.
Other than swimming, one could play in the sand with sandcastles or plain name writing. One can also look for corrals or shells. Even that early, there are already many foreigners. We saw one foreigner snorkeling and a guy jet skiing. Although, we have no idea on where to inquire about that activities. Most are just enjoying the water or breathing in the wonderful ambiance.

Also, in the island, there are souvenir vendors peddling necklaces, bracelets and the like made out of shells and corals.

Our Expenses on White Island

Boat Rental - Php 400
Souvenir Items - Php 125

Cagayan de Oro- Camiguin Philippine Tour: Discovering Camiguin

2009-02-28T20:03:00.022+08:00

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour
Day 2

After a thrilling whitewater adventure in Day 1, we continued our Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour by embarking to CAMIGUIN.

Camiguin is an island province in Northern Mindanao, Philippines famous for beautiful beaches, ( white island, etc) scenic mountain views (Mt. Hibok-hibok, etc), refreshing springs and waterfalls and famous tourist spots ( sunken cemetery, etc). That is why we need to see it for ourselves. And so are you! :)

We left downtown CDO early in the morning and boarded a jeepney going to Agora Market. Along the way, we saw the Lim Ket Kai Mall. The driver was kind enough to point us where the bus terminal we're looking for is.

In the terminal, a vendor showed us the Bachelor Express. Unfortunately, he insisted that we buy something from him. For him to leave us, we just bought a bottle of mineral water.

The Bachelor Express is a yellow-colored bus bound for Butuan City that will take us to Balingoan. You can choose between the ordinary (Php 89) and the aircon type (Php 110). Travel time to Balingoan took us about one and a half hour along zigzag roads. The best seats going to Balingoan is in the left side of the bus if you want a better view of the blue sea. We were apprehensive that we might pass by the port. Good thing, there is a designated bus stop in Balingoan.

From the bus terminal in Balingoan, you can walk to the Balingoan Port/pier, some 200 meters across the terminal. Or you can ride a tricycle for 10 Php per person like in our case.

At the gate, you will see the booth where ferry ticket is sold for Php 135 each. Inside the port, 5 pesos were charged for terminal fee for both us. From Balingoan Port, the ferry will take you to the port of Benoni, in the town of Mahinog, Camiguin.

The ferry that would take us to Camiguin was boarding a truck when we entered. Passengers are seated on the second deck. Seats are available on the side of the ferry if you like a closer view of the sea and enjoy the sea breeze more.

We set foot on Camiguin after an hour where we were met by Frank. He will be our guide and driver in Camiguin as prearranged the night before.

First stop was the Kan-anan sa Parola for a quick lunch. Food was great and quite affordable. Php 160 pesos for the 3 of us. Next, we checked in at Pabuas Cottages to leave our luggage and proceeded with the tour. The room was detached from the main house. It was spacious with 1 double bed and 2 single bed, aircon, cable TV and bathroom.

Frank then brought us to the Katibawasan Falls. I think the falls is more than 200 feet, cascading down to a greenish pool of water covering a rocky bottom. The falls is surrounded by boulders, shruberries and trees. Our guide shared that rapelling is also conducted here. Visitors are allowed to swim. A change room is provided near the entrance but none when you troop down to the pool of water below. 15 pesos are charged per person for maintenance of this tourist spot.

After a short swim, we went around the souvenir stores found at the entrance.

From there, we proceed to the Walkway to the old Volcano and Stations of the Cross. The Stations of the Cross were put up from the foot of the mountain up. This place is popular during the Holy Week celebration as Catholics revisit the passion and suffering of Jesus especially those who have panata (annual vows). Walking along stations to stations up to the top of the mountain is a good penance. Initially, I was confident I could finish all of the stations and take pictures of all them. But by the 3rd station, I was already tired.

After a short attack on the souvenir store near the walkway, we then went to the famous Sunken Cemetery. A remnant of the town cemetery buried by the volcanic eruption in the 1800's. It is actually allowed to cross the sea and reach the cross. But decided not to as it is high tide and sun is so high up.

Just some short distance from the Sunken Cemetery is the Old Guiob Church ruins. The walls of this old church is made up of sea corrals as pointed out by our guide. There is a small chapel inside if you want to say a prayer.

Off we went our way again. Along the road, we stopped by a Spanish-style house where natural soda is flowing out. Thinking it was like Sprite of 7-up, we tasted it. It was warm and taste different from water.

Next stop is the Ardent Hot Springs. Entrance is only 30 pesos. It features several pools of different depths and a 39° hot pool. We saw quite a number of foreign tourist enjoying the dip. Maybe its because its not yet peak season that we were not charged for the cottage.

Then Frank brought us back to our cottage in Pabuas. Guests are allowed to request cooked food but we decided to have our dinner at the restaurant of Paras beach resort. It is the nearest beach resort to White Island and is connected directly to the sea. Dinner was great but a bit pricey here. After some billiards, we decided to retire for the evening.

Our Expenses for Day 2 :
Transportation from CDO to Camiguin - Php 523.00
Mulitcab Rental And Tour - Php 1, 000 ( Inclusive of fetch from port, Tour & back to Pabuas Cottages. We added Php 100 peso tip.)
Entrance Fees Total - Php 100
Food - Php 682
Accomodations in Pabuas Cottages - Php 700
Miscellaneous - Php 140
Total - Php 3255
Contacts:
Kuya Frank - 0920.5405582
Pabuas Cottages
Proprietor: Emma Pabuas
Tel: (0088) 387.9033
CP: 0906.4152557

Cagayan de Oro River Whitewater Rafting Adventure

2009-02-24T20:54:00.020+08:00

If you ever go to Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, don't miss an experience of a lifetime by trying the Cagayan de Oro Whitewater Rafting Adventure.

Cagayan de Oro river will fill your heart with adrenaline rush as you conquer its raging rapids after rapids and will leave you mesmerized with its natural beauty and fascinating history in still waters .

To find out what's in store for you in a CDO whitewater rafting adventure, here is the imprinted experience of a recent adventurer.

Cagayan de Oro River Whitewater Rafting Adventure
Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin, Philippine Tour
Day 1

Around 8:30 am, KAGAY whitewater outfitter staff met us at the downtown CDO, a few steps from Grand City Hotel where we checked in. First order of the day is registration. We are both excited but as I remember in the form, participants in this whitewater adventure should not be susceptible to heart attacks and Kagay will not be held liable.

The rafting starting point is some thirty minutes jeepney ride from downtown CDO. Along the the paved and zigzag roads, you will enjoy mountainous view and witness the simple way of life in the countryside.

On the starting point, rafting gears were distributed to all participants: a head gear, a floating vest and a paddle. Belongings can be turned over to the staff where they will bring them to the disembarkation point. Valuable gadgets may be placed inside a waterproof bagged and be brought along the raft. After which, a short orientation followed.

First to be discussed is what to do when someone falls into the river. If he's near the raft, use the paddle to pull him out of the river. Using your arm may cause injury. If he's further away, throw the floating device and ask him to hold onto the line. If he's too far, he should turn his back on the river current in a lying position, allowing the water to take him to still waters.

Next, is how to hold the paddle and the all important commands of the river guide. First is FORWARD. It means you paddle from front to back and your paddle should be at least 80% into the water. STOP means to desist from paddling and place your paddle in your lap. Lastly, BACK PADDLE, means row from back to the front. Paddle up is raising all paddles as a form of hooray.

And of we go into the river aboard the raft. The Beginner's Level of whitewater rafting involves navigating the Cagayan De Oro river including 14 rapids for about 3-4 hours. As we traverse each rapids, the river guides have stories to tell mostly humorous.

As we are about to reach the fourth rapid, we were asked to stand up by the river guides. On the first impact of the rapids, we simultaneously sat... eliciting laughter from our guides. I do not like bodies of water for fear of drowning. I can not describe how nervous I was. I felt I was holding for dear life on the first rapids.

But as we go along, I was able to calm my fears. Picture taking also was a good distraction. I think the only dangerous part on whitewater rafting is when the raft crash against big rocks. The river guides are there to avoid that. And may I add, that the river guides did a marvelous job on making our whitewater rafting not only enjoyable but more importantly, as safe as we can be.

It was an adventure of a lifetime for me. Pictures are also courtesy of Kagay for an additional fee. At the disembarkation point, shower rooms are provided and food sets for lunch are offered. After lunch, we were suppose to proceed to Macahambus Adventure Park for the zipline and skybridge adventure. But due to some mixed up we were not able to do so. We just went directly to Kagay office to get our pictures.

Tips & Suggestions:

Wear something lightweight and will cover most of your body. Otherwise, apply sun block generously before plunging to this adventure.
Do not forget to bring personal effects like towel, soap, shampoo, etc. Turn them over to the staff to be brought at the disembarkation point.
For valuables, your outfitter ( in our case, Kagay) will provide you with waterproof bags to be brought along the adventure. For good measure, put your gadgets inside waterproof containers as well.
You can bring your own waterproof digital camera, but its better if you avail of the photo service by your outfitter. Kagay will give you all the photos. If you are one big group, only one need to get and pay for a copy.
You can save on food cost if you could prepare packed lunch. Also, turn over your food to the staff to be brought at the disembarkation point.

Our Expenses in this Adventure :

Whitewater Rafting Fee = Php 1400 (700 / pax)
Photo = Php 250
Lunch = Php 390
Total = Php 2040

Contacts

KAGAY - Whitewater Rafting Voyages Outfitter
Cellphone Nos:
0917-7122323
Website:
http://www.cdorafting-map.com/contact-us.html

Cagayan de Oro-Camiguin, Philippines Tour: Day 1

2009-02-21T16:38:00.007+08:00

Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin Tour Day 1

We ( me and my girlfriend) called a taxi directory service to fetch us from Quezon City and bring us to NAIA Terminal 3 around 2 am. To our surprise, the driver did not turn on his cab's meter and told us he will be charging a fix rate of 500 php. We therefore complained and asserted that that was not the case. Reluctantly, he obliged and we were charged 225 Php only.

This was my first domestic flight and a first look at the controversial NAIA Terminal 3 and my girlfriend's first time in an airplane. No wonder we are early by 2 hours and use the time to take pictures. Then we checked in our baggage, some waiting at the boarding lounge and off we go on Cebu Pacific flight 5J 381.

We arrived at Lumbia, Cagayan de Oro Airport passed 6 am.

As expected, the taxis on the outside are offering contractual rates. The guard said 250 Php is minimum. So, we decided to walk further outside the airport and just take a jeepney to downtown CDO. Fortunately, we found a taxi that agreed on meter rate and only cost us 120 Php.

We then reached Grand City Hotel, where we reserved in advance for 1080 Php. After checking in, we had some breakfast and took a nap to wait for our Cagayan De Oro River whitewater rafting adventure.

Cagayan De Oro-Camiguin, Philippines Tour: Airfare

2009-02-09T16:15:00.007+08:00

Our Cagayan de Oro-Camiguin Philippines Tour was conceived on Christmas Day 2008.

My girlfriend was burning the internet lines at the time and found out Cebu Pacific's Zero Fare promo. Her actual choice was Palawan but ended up booking us a flight to Cagayan De Oro instead.

Had she told me earlier of her plan for a Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin Philippine Tour, I would have thumbed down the idea for budget reasons. But then, she already booked the flights thru her credit card. She even added it would be our valentine celebration of sorts. What kind of boyfriend would I be to deny her of her first Philippine tour outside Luzon.

Of course, our airfare is not totally free. The taxes and fees summed up to 1, 636.24 Php for two round trip tickets including sure seats reservation.

5J 381 | Manila - Cagayan De Oro
Tues, Feb. 17, 2009 | ETD 0440H ETA 0605H
5J 390 | Cagayan de Oro - Manila
Friday, Feb. 20, 2009 | ETD 1635 ETA 1800H

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2008-12-31T17:01:00.002+08:00

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2008-12-31T15:35:00.005+08:00

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