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The Kitchen by Chef Cris is Now Open to Serve The City of Pines

July 2, 2015, 11:02 pm
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Hang on Baguio City! The Kitchen by Chef Cris is now serving Baguio City! We've checked the place earlier today and we tried their all-day breakfast buffet for Php199.00 only. Watch out for my full review anytime soon this week. Here are some of the photos taken during our buffet encounter earlier today:

Happy tummy! In this photo: Joanne, Lourdes, Rodney, Jo-ann and Yours Truly. 
Outdoor breakfast buffet. 
Other guests enjoying their food. 
The Kitchen is now open! 
How to go to The Kitchen by Chef Cris
If you're from town, get a cab and tell the driver to bring you to The Kitchen at Upper General Luna, just beside Saint Elizabeth Montessori. You do the same thing if you have your own car. 

Wandering Pinoy highlighy recommends The Kitchen by Chef Cris. Visit them at #80 Upper General Luna Road, Baguio City! For more details and information, please visit their Facebook Fanpage! 
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That 5-Hour Davao City Escapade

August 21, 2015, 10:35 pm
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Despite the "busyness" at work and lack of time for a great escapade, I still managed to visit Davao even for a short span of time - well, 5 hours to be precise. Haha! Via Cebu Pacific's airbus, we departed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 10:55 am and arrived at Davao City Francisco Bangoy International Airport at exactly one in the afternoon. By the way, I rescheduled my flight back to Manila to make sure that I'll make it on time for our training.

Unlike my previous escapades, I ended up touring Davao City (I particularly spent most of my idle time at Abreeza) instead of visiting Samal Island as I planned previously. Though the plan didn't push through and my stay was pretty short, I still had so much fun and I fell in love with the city - which made me realize that I need to revisit Davao anytime soon.

Thats me at Davao International Airport. We were gladly welcomed by local dancers at the airport. Kadayawan Festival was ongoing when I visited Davao.
Indeed, life is in Davao. 
Davao International Airport signage. 
We're scheduled to depart in Davao at exactly 17:55 but, due to air traffic, we left at 19:00 instead. I arrived at NAIA 3 past none in the evening.

P.S. I only have few photos. I didn't bring my digicam with me and my phones battery was about to die. I surely will have more photos in my next visit. :)
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Wandering Pinoy in the Big City

September 17, 2015, 11:10 pm
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After a couple of weeks of “not blogging” due to my recent movement here in Makati, I’m back again and I feel extremely awesome. Haha! And guess what’s the latest about me? Umm…aside from gaining six kilograms in just a month [I’m still fit though. My BMI is normal], I also did a lot of stuff despite the ongoing training in my current workplace. Here are the things that I did these past few weeks:

My new Burnham Park is Bonifacio High Street.
1. Eat and eat. Oh well, I guess the best thing to do when you’re not doing anything or, perhaps, when boredom strikes you is eat – aside from sleeping and/or travelling to unknown places. As a matter of fact, you’ll eat more if you’ve got someone in your unit who cooks very well. Good food means good appetite.
Lunch with new found friends. In this photo: Japy, Chad, Tere, Mel and Yours Truly.

2. Wall climbing. One of the things that I’ve always wanted to do is “wall climb” so it’s good that there’s wall climbing activity at Market Market. Although my first attempt to climb was “a fail” because my knees shivered, I managed to finish Level 3 climb on my second attempt. [Of course with sweat all over me plus an aching arms.] Congratulations to me!

Lunch with friends at Kenny Rogers Market Market. In this photo: Amos, Yours Truly, Japy, Normie and Cliff.

3. Eat with new found friends. 

Wall climbing at the Basekamp at Market Market with my good friend Amos. 
4. Groufie - courtesy of Japy's phone. :)

5. Davao escapade. Despite my busyness because of the training, I still manage to visit Davao. Finally! Haha! I’ve previously booked trips [with the “s”] but I ended up cancelling them because of my responsibilities at my previous company. Click here to view my blog about my recent Davao escapade.

6. Shop.
A simple birthday celebration with Tere.

7. Spent my birthday at Star City. My happiest birthday so far. Imagine me in my birthday doing those rides. 8. Double birthday celebration with Theresa.

The list is actually almost endless so I've decided to mention seven stuff only. I'll write more about my most recent activities anytime soon.

By the way, contrary to what I previously thought and what other people say, my stay in Makati and Taguig has been extremely awesome. The “traffic” and the flood which somehow prevented me from relocating to the “big city” back then does not exist from where I stay to my current workplace. Add to this the extremely awesome JP Morgan….what I mean is it’s just extremely awesome that my current company is paying me well and they’re taking care of me not to mention the state of the art facilities, technology and amenities and world-class trainers.
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Meet Some of My New Workmates

September 19, 2015, 12:53 am
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I guess meeting new people is like wandering to unknown, or perhaps, unexplored places. You don't totally know them yet but as you mingle with them on a daily basis, you get a chance to know them more - and you start to like them.

I'd like you to meet some of my workmates. In this photo: (l-r): Yours Truly, Tere, Japy, Mel, Chad, Mark and Claude.

Class photo shoot at JP Morgan.
Here's one of my favorite quotes from Jensen Ackles: "What I enjoy most is travelling to different places and meeting new people. For me, it's all about life experiences, and I'm very grateful that acting allows me so many interesting and fulfilling ones."
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Skyranch, Picnic Grove, Koorah-Koorah Restaurant and Other Matters

September 29, 2015, 5:10 am
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Theresa and I planned to visit Tagaytay third week of this month but we've decided to move it to a different date because Amos was scheduled to visit Baguio and he recommended that we visit Tagaytay September 26th instead. All things considered, I've thought it was a pretty good suggestion so I didn't argue with him that we should stick to what Theresa and I previously planned. Simply put, the plan was changed in matter of, ummm, twenty seconds. Lol! I told Theresa about the change in our plan after work and I was pretty happy that she didn't oppose it or whatsoever. Then, five days before our scheduled trip I invited Nhormie and her housemates to join us and I'm glad that they joined us.
At Skyranch. In this photo: Amos, Theresa, Yours Truly, Nhormie and Cliff. Photo taken after our Super Viking ride.

Come September 26th, instead of the "regular escapade" that I normally have which normally includes yours truly, Amos and Theresa or yours Truly, Amos and Wynn, there were five of us: Yours Truly, Amos, Theresa, Nhormie and her husband Cliff. 


The Search for Coastal Mall Bus Terminal
The first time I set foot at Coastal Mall was first week of July 2015 when Theresa, Amos and I went to Bacoor, Cavite to process some BIR stuff. It's good that I can still recall how to go there. From Makati where we currently stay, we took a cab and we reached Coastal Mall early seven in the morning. We boarded BSC air-conditioned bus and we departed around 7:30 am. As of this writing, the fare from Coastal Mall to Tagaytay is Php79.00. Travel time is approximately two hours under normal traffic condition.
Groupie at Coastal Mall bus station. In this photo: Cliff, Nhormie, Tere, Amos and Yours Truly.
I took chance of the wait time and I took this photo. Good thing there were only few passengers when we arrived at the terminal.

When in Tagaytay
We arrived in Tagaytay City early nine in the morning. Because we planned to visit Skyranch, the bus driver dropped us at [please see image below]. From there, we followed the "to Skyranch" sign, walked for approximately twenty minutes and decided to drop by Classic Savory at Summit Ridge. After eating, we walked again going to Skyranch. From Summit Ridge, it tooks us approximately ten minutes to reach our second to final destination.
It's pabebe day for us at Classic Savory at Summit Ridge, Tagaytay.

The Skyranch and Picnic Grove
As planned, we first checked Skyranch and we tried Sky Eye and Super Vikings. My Sky Eye ride was pretty cool - never mind my Super Vikings ride. Haha! Fact is, I've promised that I'll never try vikings ride again. Haha! We spent a few more minutes at Skyranch, mostly taking photos, and we decided to go to Picnic Grove afterwards. We hired the tricycle driver who offered us a ride and we paid him Php300 one-way fare.


As of this writing, the entrance fee at Skyranch from Monday to Friday is Php50.00 and Php80.00 on Saturdays and Sundays.
Pabebe part two at Picnic Grove overlooking Taal Lake. Hahaha!
The Koorah-Koorah Restaurant in Tagaytay
After spending at least an hour at the Picnic Grove, we've decided to eat nearby. We found Koorah-Koorah restaurant near Picnic Grove. Koorah-koorah is a Japanese term for [ooppsss....I forgot] . We tried their best-selling Bulalo for Php650.00 which I think was "unjustifiable" because  We were serenaded while we were eating which I thought a "freebie" from the restaurant. I convinced myself that I was correct until I heard one of the performers say "from the bottom of your heart." I intentionally did not give anything because I was totally dissatisfied by what I eat. We paid Php120.00 each but did not get something that would "satisfy"the amount that we paid for. Anyway, to keep things short, I would definitely not recommend Koorah-koorah Restaurant to anyone.

At the second floor of Koorah-koorah restaurant.
The Disappointment
I think I expected too much on what Tagaytay City can offer us. Prior to our trip, I imagined that it's going be extraordinary trip - with all the beautiful sceneries and cool weather. Well, I was wrong. Fact is, Baguio is far more beautiful than Tagaytay City.Of course, I'm not degrading Tagaytay's tourism industry. I'm just trying to point out that Baguio is a lot better than Tagaytay. 

We left Tagaytay City past four in the afternoon and we arrived home in Makati past seven in the evening.

The Expenses
Here's an overview of our expenses:
  • Cab Fare - Makati to Costal Mall - Php150.00 (Php30.00/head)
  • Bus Fare - Coastal Mall to Tagaytay - Php79.00/head
  • Brunch at Classic Savory - Php215.00/head (approximate amount only)
  • Skyranch Entrance Fee - Php80.00/head
  • Sky Eye Ride - Php150.00/head
  • Super Vikings Ride - Php100.00/head
  • Entrance at Picnic Grove - Php50.00/head
  • Late lunch at Koorah-koorah restaurant - Php120.00/head
  • Tricycle Rental to Picnic Grove - Php300.00 (Php60.00/head)
  • Tricycle Fare from Picnic Grove to Oliveros - Php50.00 (Php10.00/head)
  • Bus Fare - Tagaytay to Baclaran - Php77.00/head
  • MRT Fare - Taft to Guadalupe - Php16.00/head
Total expenses per head: Php987.00 exclusive of souvenir items that we bought for ourselves. Not bad, isn't it.  it's absolutely cheap to travel to Tagaytay as long as you know how to budget. 
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From Quiapo to Binondo to Divisoria and the "Other" Face of Metro Manila

October 11, 2015, 9:11 pm
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Out of boredom, I decided to wander a few weeks ago and, instead of "malling," I thought of visiting Quiapo, Binondo, Recto and Divisoria. It was a hot day but, nonetheless, I still pushed through with the plan and I didn't really care if it was too hot or whatsoever. Besides, I had my umbrella with me and I took advantage of air-conditioned buses and LRT.

At Ongpin Street at Binondo visiting CNN Travel recommended resto.  Cafe Mezzanine is indeed a must-visit resto when visiting Binondo.

From Makati where I'm currently based [after 12 years of stay in Baguio City], I went to Market-Market, rode a BGC bus going to Ortigas and traveled via LRT and dropped by Carriedo. It took me approximately three hours to reach my destination due to traffic and long queue at the LRT station. [See the disadvantage if your new in the Metro? You need to take all those rides because you aren't familiar with the "short-cuts" yet. Haha!]

Here are some of the photos taken during my recent escapade:

At Quaipo Church. Big thanks to my umbrella for keeping me protected from the scorching sun.
Inside Quiapo Church. Mass was ongoing when I entered the church.
The facade of Quiapo Church.
The Bank of Philippines Islands housed in a Spanish-built building at Escolta.
First time to visit Manila Chinatown.
Solo shot at Manila Chinatown. 
I couldn't help but be amazed by these Chinese signages. 

Inside Binondo Church.

One thing that I didn't like about the escapade? Well, it's hot and crowded.  The experience, on the other hand, was memorable and, like I always say, worth blogging for.
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Climbing Mount Pico de Loro with Stranger Friends

November 12, 2015, 12:48 am
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We were complete strangers to each other but the way we share experiences and the way we treat each other seem like we’ve known each other for the longest time. Well, I guess there’s “something” that unites climbers and travelers.

With my stranger friends at the monolith. In this photo (l-r): Reggie, Abby, Emilu, Raymond, Rxyz, Paula, Roxanne, Yours Truly and Ace.

How I Met My Stranger Friends 
I first “met” my “stranger friends” on Facebook barely two weeks before our scheduled assault to Mount Pico de Loro. I was looking for a group of climbers and travelers when JC told me that there’s a group of climbers climbing on Wednesdays. Excited, I joined the group right away and, viola, a November 11 climb to Mount Pico was scheduled and I was like “cool, this is just so perfect for me.” I sent my intent to join the club…I mean the climb…and I was given a slot right away. We exchanged phone numbers and the rest is history. [Big thanks to Abby and Emilu!]

The Meeting Place 
As previously planned, we met at KFC near Coastal Mall Provincial Bus Terminal around four in the morning. We left past four and we reached DENR Pico de Loro past six. I was with Abby, Emilu, Roxanne, Raymond, Reggie, Ace, Paula and Rxyz.


The Climb
We started our assault at 06:50 after the registration. [As of this writing, registration costs Php25.00.person. Car park costs Php50.00.] We did not hire a tour guide primarily because it will “minimize” the adventure and thrill of getting lost and, two, Reggie has been to Mount Pico before and he served as our guide. I mean he’s more than willing enough to guide us. Our climb was a combination of getting to know each other, small talks, photo shoots and, of course, some bench rest. We reached the camping site around nine. At the campsite, we met Kuya Jojo who eventually became our guide to the monolith. Guide fee is Php50.00 only. Here are some of the photos taken during our assault:

Mandatory registration prior to the climb. Registration is Php25.00/head.
Pricing as of November 11, 2015
My new found stranger friends, In this photo: (l-r): yours truly, Ace, Emilu, Paula, Roxanne, Rxyz, Raymond, Reggie and Abby. Photo courtesy of  Rxyz.
In this photo (l-r): Roxanne, yours truly, Emilu, Raymond, Reggie, Ace, Abby and Paula. Photo courtesy of Rxyz.
Facing my fear.
Groupie taken by our monolith guide Kuya Jojo.
The Death-defying Monolith Climb 
Prior to our climb, I was told that a Mount Pico de Loro climb is “incomplete” without climbing the monolith so I promised myself that I shouldn’t miss it. Although I felt nervous at first, I felt extremely happy when I learned that I’ve reached the monolith’s peak. It was a death-defying experience that I will never forget as long as I live.

The monolith.
Solo shot before our monolith climb.
Climbing down in preparation for the much-awaited monolith climb.
Getting ready for the most-awaited monolith climb. Photo credit: Roxanne.
Excited much. :)
This way please to the monolith. Yup, you must pass this hurdle otherwise you'll not make it to the monolith's peak. 
Ang lubid! Buti pa ang lubig hindi nang-iiwan.
At the summit of the monolith. We've conquered it! 


Walang Forever
 Dahil walang forever, bumaba kami ng monolith after the photoshoot. Malamang, hindi kami forever na magstay sa tuktok ng monolith kasi nga walang forever. We went back to the camping area and ate our “baons.” Ace and Reggie offfered their packed lunch to me and I simply couldn’t resist them. Ang sarap kumain ng nilang itlog sa bundok. After lunch, bumaba na ulit kami ng bundok and we reached DENR past two in the afternoon. We decided to drop by Boracay de Cavite.

Another solo shot before climbing down the monolith.
Time to leave the monolith. Photo credit: Rxyz.
Time to descend and return to the camp area for our lunch.
Lunch time! Photo credit: Roxanne.
The team with our monolith guide Kuya Jojo (in green). Photo credit: Roxanne.

P.S. I'll have a separate blog entry for our Boracay de Cavite beach escapade. Unless stated, photos here are mine.
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Isla Higantes Iloilo 2015 Year-end Escapade

December 27, 2015, 10:29 pm
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I spent my 2014 year-end escapade in Banaue-Bontoc-Sagada-Baguio with newly found European friends Susan and Ian and, although I had challenges “commuting” due to the influx of both local and foreign tourists, still, it was an absolutely unforgettable experience. Fact is, it was one of the best solo escapades I ever had and undeniably one of the reasons why I love revisiting Sagada.

Yours Truly with Amos and Theresa at famous Cabugay Gamay Island.
My 2015 year-end escapade, on the other hand, was a bit different from my 2014 year-end escapade. Instead of travelling solo – which I normally do to find inner peace and adventure and pleasure – I travelled with my long time travel buddies Amos and Theresa and with my friends at work Mel and Chad and with new found friends Kelvin, Che, Regina and Len. It was absolutely the best group travel I ever had and, like I always say, the trip is undeniably worth blogging for.

I’ll have a detailed blog about our escapade soon. For now, enjoy the photos below taken from our Isla Higantes Iloilo 2015 year-end escapade.

Pre-departure groufie at Ninoy Aquino Inernational Airport 3 with Yours Truly (clockwise) , Theresa, Amos, Mel, Chad, Regina, Kelvin and Che. Missing in action: Len. We met her in Iloilo. She's from Davao,
First time to travel via motor boat at night. It was a total adventure! 
Day 2: Ready for our island hopping.
At the sand bar at Bantigue Island.

The boat ride.
At Tangke. 
Full force. In this photo: (l-r) Len, Mel, Tere, Kelvin, Regina, Chad, Che, Yours Truly and Amos.
Sunrise by the lighthouse. 
At Pawikan Cave.
Big thanks Gigantes Hideaway Resort for accommodating us! 

Watch out for the detailed blog entry about our 2015 year-end escapade. Happy New Year to all!
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Preview: 2015 Mount Sembrano Year-end Climb

December 30, 2015, 11:35 pm
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My initial plan for my year-end solo escapade was to visit Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary in Masbate but, due to some confidential reasons which I've decided not to mention here on my blog, I ended up climbing Mount Sembrano with stranger backpackers. Yup, with strangers again - this time with sixteen strangers I first "met" on Facebook.

With my new found friends at the peak of Mount Sembrano, Pillia, Rizal. Photo credit: Kevin.
I'll have a detailed blog of our climb soon so, for now, enjoy some of our photos below (I'm still waiting for other photos to be uploaded by my new found traveler friends):

Our mode of transportation from Shaw to Barangay Malaya, Pililla, Rizal. Fare: Php120/head.
Registration at Ynares Multi-purpose Building at Barangay Malaya. Registration fee: Php20.00

We're all set. After a short prayer, our climb has officially commenced.
Yours truly. Smile. Every day is precious. 
At Mount Sembrano's peak. We reached the summit after three hours - if my calculation is correct.

Exhausted yet satisfied. In this photo: (l-r) Yours Truly, Altaire, Raymond, Cassandra and Bless. Photo credit: Raymond.
The deepest scars are the ones unseen. Photo credit: Raymond.
Watch out for a detailed blog about our year-end climb. Thank you Cassandra, Pao, Altaire, Ella, Mary Grace, BJ, Bless, Raymond, Michael, Kevin, Nikki and the rest for the year-end climb. Happy New Year!!!
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From Mount Marami to Pantihan Falls to Intramuros and How I Started My 2016 Wanders

January 13, 2016, 6:29 am
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I officially started my 2016 escapade with a climb and a sweet escape to Pantihan Falls in Cavite on January 6th and a visit to Intramuros the following day. (This is my first blog post for 2016.)

Amos and I at Intramuros.
The Mount Marami Climb 
Instead of the usual “beachcapade” that I normally do to officially commence my “wanders,” I, instead, climbed Mount Marami at Maragondon, Cavite. With my recent movement here in Makati from Baguio, climbing became favorable to me and, at the same time, I’ve met several climbers and travelers I can join anytime as long as travel dates do not conflict with my work schedule. Anyway, just like my other climbs in CALABARZON region, I was also with “stranger friends” when I climbed Mount Marami. To date, our Mount Marami climb is “the longest” climb I ever had and also the “most tiring” one. Imagine this: it took us approximately five hours to reach Mount Marami’s peak and the famous Silyang Bato.

Yours Truly at Silyang Bato. With a bit of encouragement from my new found friends, I conquered my fear, Rock on! Photo credit: Paula.
Of course, good things happen when you travel with awesome stranger friends. In this photo: BJ, Raymond, Rain, Ria, Paula and Yours Truly. Thank you guys for the company. Photo credit: Rain.

The Pantihan Falls Escapade 
After climbing Mount Marami and because we still had ample time, our group decided to visit Pantihan Falls. Our guide recommended us the place and, to date, we were the first group of travelers/climbers to visit the falls other than the locals of the place which, unfortunately, I couldn’t recall the name. Yup, we’ve made history! Pantihan Falls was absolutely amazing and it’s perfect for diving.


At Pantihan Falls.
The explorers: BJ, Raymond, Ria, Rain, Yours Truly and Paula.
"Ang lalim daw!" Hahaha! Pantihan Falls is absolutely perfect for swimming after a tiring climb.

Intramuros Escapade
Of course, I don’t want to start my 2016 escapade without my long-time travel buddies Amos and Tere, so the following day I joined them in Intramuros. That was our first ‘work-out escapade” together which I find cool because I've never "liked" travelling within NCR. I prefer a great escapade to "somewhere" isolated to highly urbanized areas.

The Manila Cathedral.
At the Manila Cathedral with some Russian back packers.

Theresa and I. This is my favorite spot in the walled city.
Watch out for the detailed blog entry for each escapade. I'm too sleepy now and internet is wonky.
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My First Twin Hike: From Mount Pamitinan to Mount Hapunang Banoi

February 3, 2016, 9:19 am
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Our original plan is to climb Mount Tagapo but due unexpected “events,” we ended up climbing Mount Pamintinan and Mount Hapunang Banoi. Yup, our most recent climb was a twin hike and was my first. Big thanks to Mond, Ria, Mark and Carla for the awesome adventure!

First stop at Mount Hapunang Banoi.
Here are some of the photos taken during our climb (Photo credit: Mond and Kevin):

Yours truly and my new found friends. Photo taken at the legendary mountain of Bernardo Carpio.
Arman, our guide, instructed us to "show" one to signify that we've reached Mountain #1 and we did it.  Below our spot is  where one can have "buwis-buhay" shot.
I thought I'm not gonna make it here but I did. Big thanks to my NFFs for the encouragement. Haha!
At summit #2: Mount Hapunang Banoi rockies. I survived without gloves but my hands got wounded.
With the gang from Vikings. Thanks guys for another awesome adventure.
On our way to Wawa Dam.
Our group decided to wear our dri-fit souvenir shirt at wawa dam.
It's absolutely awesome to be here! The water is refreshing!
Photo shoot with the locals and our guide (in red shirt) before we head back to Cubao. These folks are nice and accommodating.
This is it for today! More photos and additional blog update to follow. :)
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Travelling On a Budget at Jomalig Island: Sample Itinerary and Expenses & My New Found Traveler Friends

April 1, 2016, 6:25 am
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Travelling needs not be expensive. Fact is, you’re Php2000.00 can bring you somewhere isolated yet beautiful and pristine– food (imagine fresh lobsters, fresh tuna and fresh salmon), round-trip sea and land transportation and environmental fee covered. See? Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to spend a lot just to be able to travel and explore the hidden gems of our beloved archipelago. You just need to be “smart,” spend wisely and choose the people you want to travel with.

Jomalig Island is gifted with golden powdery sand. Photo credit: Odie.

How I Met My New Found Travel Buddies
Early morning of March 24, my cousin and I agreed to drop by my Aunt’s place in Sison, Pangasinan, but past two in the afternoon she texted me and she told me that she couldn’t make it. So I came up with Plan B: I’ll backpack Banaue-Bontoc-Sagada-Baguio – same thing with what I did back in 2014. I was about to “finalize” plan B when I saw April’s post on our Facebook travel group and she asked if someone can join their group to Jomalig Island in Quezon province. As a “self-proclaimed” island-lover, I expressed my intention to join them and, fortunately, April confirmed that there are still slots available.

Dinner and bonfire. In this photo (l-r): Odie, May Ann, Criz, Yours Truly, April, Karlo (seated), Rick and Jeremiah. Not in photo: TJ, Gilbert and Adelle. Photo credit: Criz.
I confirmed that I’ll join and the initial plan was for me (yup, solo mode) to take a bus bound to Real, Quezon but around five in the afternoon (if my memory serves me right) April confirmed in our group chat that I can join them in the van. I was relieved and my dilemma of “commuting” and “waiting in queue” disappeared. We agreed to meet at 11:00 pm at Pioneer. It has always been my habit not to be late in meetings so I came “first” at the agreed “meeting place.” I waited for a few minutes, then TJ and Criz arrived followed by Rick, Jeremy and Adelle. Then came April and Cathy then Odie and May Ann and Gilbert and Karlo.

We left Cubao past one in the morning and we arrived at Real Port in Quezon province past four in the morning.

The Four-Hour Boat Ride
Prior to our trip, I made a little research about the expected sea travel time from Port of Real to Jomalig Island. I read that it could take four to five hours so I made sure I brought a lot of patience with me and a chessboard. Just in case you don’t know yet, I easily get bored on “long boat rides” primarily because all you see is water unlike when travelling by land. Anyhow, I got a chance to play chess with Karlo so my boredom was kinda “reduced.”
Yours Truly at Jomalig Port. Photo credit: Karlo. 
We arrived at Jomalig Island early four in the afternoon.

Sample Expenses and Itinerary
Here’s an overview of our expenses in our three days and two nights “survivor-themed” Jomalig Island expedition:

 Private Van Rental (Cubao – Real - Cubao) – Php600/person
 Passenger Boat Fare (Port of Real –Jomalig Island – Real Port) – Php700/person
 Boat Rental for Island Hopping at Jomalig Island (Php2000.00) – Php200/person
 Environmental fee – Php150.00  Barangay Fee – Php80.00
 Food (good for 3D2N includes fresh salmon, fresh tuna, fresh lobster, etc) – Php300/head
 Accommodation – Free (bring your own tent, pitching is free)

Sunrise at Jomalig. Photo credit: Karlo.
Reasons Why You Should Visit Jomalig Island
The list is endless but I came up with these:

 If you are an island-lover just like yours truly
 It’s isolated which is good if you want to run away or escape “city living”
 The locals are friendly and accommodating
 The island is gifted with golden powdery sand and crystal-like water
 It’s a perfect getaway to bond with Mother Nature
 It’s magnificent
Time to leave the island with my new found traveller friends. Not in photo: Adelle. Photo credit: May Ann.
Jomalig Island’s Spot in Map of the Philippines
Jomalig Island as seen from Wikimapia:


About Jomalig Island
Jomalig (pronounced as humalig) is a sixth class municipality, consisting of five barangays and with a population of 6,111 based on 2007 census. Gifted with golden powdery sand, it's an unspoiled island located on the easternmost part of Polilio Group.
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From Dingalan Lighthouse to Zambales to San Fernando and A Taste of Sweet Bites LU Cafe

August 3, 2016, 1:39 pm
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Some of you might have noticed that I haven't updated my blog for  months - four months to be specific. Well, you've got an excellent observation! Blame it to Globe's wonky data. I swear!

Yours Truly at Dingalan Lighthouse overlooking the beautiful scenery.  
Anyway, to keep you posted I decided to "list down" some of the places that I've checked over the last four months. Here they are:

1. Dingalen Lighthouse in Dingalen, Aurora Province. We wee the fist few to visit Dingalen Lighthouse before the local government of Dingalen issued a memorandum on a strict policy on visiting the place. I was on "solo-mode" until I met Mabel and Nok in Cabanatuan. I first met Mabel at Basekamp at Market Market.

At Ate Neng's Cottage with my new found travel buddies Mabel and Nok. 
In Dingalan, we stayed at Ate Neg's Cottage. Overnight fee is Php500.00. You may contact her at 0909-031-6060 or 0929-277-3199 (c/o Leny). You may contact also contact Kuya Boboy/Ate Lourdes at 0918-503-6080.

2. Dingalen Feeder Port. If you are planning to visit Dingalan, tell the tryke driver to bring you here and everything gonna be fine. It will only take you 15 minutes to reach Barangay Paltic from the port. Duing our visit we hired a boat for Php350 one-way.


3. Barangay Paltic Beach. I don't really recommend swimming here. Water if a bit itchy.



4. Aureo Resort in San Francisco, San Fernando, La Union. A must-visit place when in La Union. For reservations and inquiries, please contact 072-888-0833 and 02-861-0983.

Beautiful, isn't it?
It's me again. 
5. Capayawan Beach in Botolan, Zambales. The beach has fine sand and is perfect for surfing due to high waves. Don't go too far from the shoreline when swimming.


6. Botanical Garden in San Fernando, La Union. Our energy-draining two-hour trek was fun and memorable. Thanks Nef, Kat and Clifford!


7. Sweet Bites LU Cafe. Of course, nothing beats a refreshing lemonade break after a two-hour trek. Thanks to Sweet Bites!

With Nef, Clifford and Kat at Sweet Bites LU Cafe in San Fernando City, La Union. 
This is it for now. Stand by for more updates!
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Lunad sa Balod Set on October 21-23 at Buenavista Surf Camp

October 13, 2016, 2:11 am
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Lunad sa Balod, a national surfing competition, is set on October 21-23 at the Buenavista Surf Camp in Buenavista, Gubat, Sorsogon.


In photo: Yours truly during my recent visit at the surf camp in Buenavista.




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TravelBook.ph Announces First Trip to Japan Winner

April 17, 2017, 8:21 pm
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TravelBook.ph, the leading online travel agency in the Philippines, announced on their official Facebook page today their first Konnichi-WOW promo winner. Erwin Sarmiento from Quezon City is set to have an all-expenses paid trip to Japan.


Sarmiento’s prize is inclusive of round trip plane tickets, free hotel accommodation, and pocket money. He also has the option to bring one companion to his trip.

The Konnichi-WOW raffle draw was held last April 11, 2017 with the supervision of Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Representative Rhoda Sevillino and Travelbook.ph Business Planning and Market Strategy Officer Mary Angeli Pasquin.

Sarmiento is the first of the three winners of TravelBook.ph’s Konnichi-WOW promo. The said promo was launched last March 10 in celebration of the company’s fourth anniversary and continues until May 31, 2017. Two more winners will be announced on May and June 2017 respectively.

Interested travelers can still join the next raffle draw simply by booking their next hotel accommodation through the TravelBook.ph website or the TravelBook.ph mobile app available in Android and iOS.

For more details about the promo, read the full mechanics here.
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How I Explored Coron, Palawan for Three Days and Two Nights for Less Than Php4000.00

October 12, 2017, 1:59 am
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Like I always say, travelling needs not be expensive, and when I say expensive I’m talking about Php5000+ for a domestic escapade. Contrary to what majority think, we don’t actually need to shell-out thousands of “pesoses” to explore the hidden gems or the top tourist attractions of our beloved archipelago. In fact, a paradise-like place like Coron can be “explored” for three days and two nights for as low as Php4000 - including airfare, food, hotel accommodation and tour package. Amazing, isn’t it?

Kayangan Lake in Coron. Nestled into the mountains' walls, Kayangan Lake was dubbed "the cleanest lake in the Philippines." 

Here’s how I managed to “explore” Coron for three days and two nights for less than Php4000.00:

1. Watch out for airfare sales and promos. This is a must if you want to travel cheap. Major airlines in the Philippines often offer seat sales on major Philippine Holidays so mark these dates on your calendar or sign-up or subscribe to their newsletters and promotions. Air Asia, a low-cost airline in the Philippines, offers exclusive 24-hour advance/priority booking to its Big Shot members so make sure you avail yourself of this membership. Membership is free. Cebu Pacific, my favorite airline because of their on-board trivia/games, also offers GetGo membership where one can enjoy free flights by redeeming his/her earned points. In my case, for example, I redeemed my GetGo points for my Coron trip and, luckily, got my round trip plane tickets for only Php870. Click here to sign-up with CebPac’s GetGo. For Philippine Airlines, I noticed that their fare drops three weeks before the scheduled trip. For ezample, if you and your friends are planning to visit Legazpi in Bicol on November 4th, try booking from October 8th to October 14th.

2. Book your plane tickets ahead of your scheduled escapade. This is the best alternative if you’re a bit impatient or you’re too busy to wait for airfare sales. I recommend three to six months advanced booking. Or even a year.

Yours Truly at the Green Lagoon. One can definitely enjoy a refreshing "splash" here. 

3. Be friendly with other travelers. Because you don’t only gain new friends or expand your network if you’re friendly but you also get someone whom you can share the burden of paying, for example, pricey boat rides. My usual how-to-start-a-conversation-with-other-travelers is “Where are you from?” Their usual response is “I’m from . How about you?” To date, my favorite are Europeans – particularly Scottish, German and British travelers - because they are friendlier than other travelers.

4. Stay in low-cost yet comfortable hotel. Unless you’re a great fan of “staycation,” this not is suitable for you. But if you’re a frugal traveler, then, you’re in the right place. Always remember that staying in a costly hotel will definitely “eat” your budget. Remember: you traveled to explore and not to sleep. For affordable and discounted hotel rates, I strongly recommend TravelBook,ph. Click here to sign-up with them and start earning points!

5. Travel like local. Don’t be too flashy. If you travel like a local, chance is they will not overcharge you. Or learn saying “Sagmamano daytoy (Ilocano) or “Tagpira ini (Bicol) instead of saying “Kuya, how much is this po?” Although this is not a prerequisite, I’m pretty sure a little bit of “local tongue” when dealing with the locals will increase the likelihood of you getting discounts.

6. Stick to your budget. Sticking to your budget when travelling is essential to avoid overspending. Don’t buy “pasalubong” unless you’ve allotted “some budget” for it. Don’t worry, “no pasalubong” doesn’t necessarily mean “friendship over.”

Here’s an overview of my expenses:
Item
Description/Comment
Cost
Airfare
Round Trip
870
Pasay-Dau
Bus Fare
139
Dau - Clark Airport
Jeepney Fare
100
Terminal Fee
TF at Clark Airport
150
Sandwich
Bought at Clark Airport Boarding Area
150
Tour A Package
Discounted price courtesy of Mariel
750
Town Proper Tour
DIY
0
Hotel (1st night)
Discounted price courtesy of TravelBook
519
Hotel (2nd night)
Discounted price courtesy of TravelBook
438
Dinner

200
Merienda
Assorted
100
Ice Candy
Sold at CYC Island
10
Ice Cream
Ube
20
Breakfast

70
Tryke
Fare
20
BBQ

40
Grand Total

Php3576

I can actually come-up with additional tips but the six are the most helpful – based on my experience. You can also come-up with a list on how to travel cheap and experiment whichever works best for you. Good luck and safe travels!
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Two Days and One Night in El Nido for Php2950.00*

October 13, 2017, 8:11 pm
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Admit it. El Nido is part of your where-to-go bucket list but the only thing that is stopping you, aside perhaps from your "busyness" or you probably ran out of leave credits, is it's pricey. Yup, definitely El Nido is expensive unless (one) you're on a promo and/or sale round-trip plane ticket, (two) you've took advanatge of a discounted room accommodation and (three) you availed of a cheaper tour package offered by your Ka-DIY.

Seven Commandos Beach.
Flashback
When I visited Palawan a few months ago, my initial plan was to visit the Underground River and meet some of my former workmates but considering my departure to PPS which was, by the way, fortunately delayed for almost an hour, I decided to visit El Nido. If the flight wasn't delayed, then, I'd definitely miss it!

Solo Mode! Yours truly at the Big Lagoon. 

Anyway, here's an overview of my expenses during my El Nido escapade:

Tour Package - Php1200.00 inclusive of Environmental Fee (courtesy of Joshua)*
RT Van  (PPS-El Nido-PPS) - Php1000.00 (courtesy of Joshua)*
Hotel Accommodation - Php600.00
El Nido Town Tour (DIY) - Php0.00
Food - Php150.00

*Exclusive only for El Nido escapade. Airfare not included but I was on a promo fare from MNL-PPS-MNL. You may get touch with Joshua via his Instagram account. For addiitonal tips on how you can travel cheap, click here. For exclusive discount in hotels and rooms, I recommend TravelBook. Click here to sign-up.

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ZOOBIC NIGHT SAFARI 2017: “A Wild Night Out”

October 22, 2017, 8:15 pm
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Imagine the wildlife at night. The excitement and enchantment from big cats to flying bats, and other animals in their natural habitat as the evening falls. On October 28, 2017, Zoobic Safari brings back the much awaited “Night Safari”, packed with more thrill and excitement. Awaken your curious side and see all the exotic yet captivating animals in real life. You can also walk together with the greyhound dogs and step into a twilight sanctuary in the Enchanting Forest with Greyhound Walk.


Gear up your nocturnal senses and prepare for a series of roaring nights of fun in visiting Zoobic Safari’s classic attractions, Serpentarium; a wild encounter with snakes, lizards and iguanas, Zoobic Park, a walk-through petting zoo, Tiger Safari, an enclosed safari jeep ride that will take you to the tigers’ natural habitat, Croco Loco, a crocodile lair where you will have a chance to feed and watch them.

Take a ride on the wild side as you tour around the vicinity of the zoo in a bright and colorful tram. Get a glimpse of these interesting animals full of energy and go gaga for it is already their playtime. Also included in Zoobic Safari’s amazing attractions are Lion Safari, Zoobic Cave and Forbidden Cave. Enjoy a different and bolder show specially prepared for the night’s entertainment; expect an explosive presentation that will surely growl your mind away.

Brace yourselves for the new activities, events, and attractions this holiday season. Try camping in a more comfortable, safe, and extravagant way as we open GlampZ or Glamping at Zoomanity. Zoobic Night Safari is available every Saturday from Oct 28, 2017 to Jan 6, 2018, 5 PM onwards. Watch out for more animals and other surprises we’re cooking up for everyone. For inquiries you may contact us at 847-0413 loc 344/ 899-9828 or Text: 0917-835-1111 or visit our website at www.zoomanity.com.ph.
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Join TravelBook.ph Friend Code Program Today

December 13, 2017, 4:33 am
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TravelBook.ph, the ultimate leisure provider for travelers in the Philippines, offers an easy way for you to earn up to 65% referral fees from your friends’ hotel and tour bookings! Their recently-launched Friend Code Program, formerly known as the TravelBook.ph Affiliate Program, has expanded and made even better as it now becomes open not just for bloggers and Facebook page owners, but for everyone!


Earn extra cash through your referrals
A lot of people can benefit from the Friend Code Program. Bloggers and social media mavens can now monetize their passion and social media presence by just sharing their friend code on their media platform. Meanwhile, college students and employees can also benefit in this program by encouraging their friends and colleagues to book via TravelBook.ph and input their Friend Code upon check out. Travel Agents can also maximize their earnings by using TravelBook.ph in booking their customer’s accommodations and tours and using their Friend Code for every transaction for cash back.

Free Registration
Signing up is easy! You can get your Friend Code in just one minute! Just visit https://friendcode.travelbook.ph/, click sign up, fill up and submit the online application form. You’ll, then, be redirected to the Friend Code Dashboard to access your account.

Highest Referral Fees
When you become a TravelBook.ph Friend Code partner, you can earn referral fees of up to 65%—the highest referral fee among all the affiliate programs in the e-commerce industry.

High Earning Potential
At TravelBook.ph Friend Code program, every booking counts as a legible way to earn referral fees! Every Friend Code Partner can now earn referral fees not just with hotel bookings but also with successful bookings for activities and tour plans.

Lowest Withdrawal Amount Requirement
TravelBook.ph pays you for every successful referred transaction. Once you reach the minimum amount of PHP 500, you can already withdraw your earnings through bank transfer or cheque payment.

Secure and Immediate Cashout
All transactions are tracked. In just seven (7) short days, you’ll be able to get and enjoy your instant referral fees!


Sign Up, Share, and Earn
Start your Friend Code journey by following these easy steps:

1. Sign up as a Friend Code partner
Register a valid e-mail address at https://friendcode.travelbook.ph/. Once you’ve been approved as a Friend Code partner, you’ll get your unique 4-digit Friend Code. As a bonus promo, all successful sign ups within November 22 to December 13, 2017 will automatically receive P200 on their account. All legible accounts for this promo will receive their P200 after one (1) working day.

2. Share your 4-digit code with your friends
Ask your friends to enter your Friend Code in the payment section every time they book their hotel and tour reservations at TravelBook.ph. There are tutorial videos available in your Friend Code Dashboard to help you effectively promote your code.

3. Get cashbacks on your own bookings
You may also use your Friend Code when booking your own tour, activities and hotel accommodations. Just enter your Friend Code at the payment section before completing the booking process.

4. Earn extra cash
The more you promote, the more you earn. With over 3,300 hotels and 1200 tour services nationwide listed at TravelBook.ph, you’ll never run out of leisure opportunities to advertise!



TravelBook.ph encourages you to earn more and travel more! Be a Friend Code Partner today and earn extra cash. To know more about the Friend Code Program, please visit www.friendcode.travelbook.ph and sign up now!

For more details, please contact:

Maria Katrina H. Lagrosa
Communication and Media Relations Specialist
MariaKatrina.Lagrosa@travelbook.ph
+63 (920) 912-2762
+63 (2) 662-1199 loc. 5533

Sharah Pinky Librada
Corporate Communications Manager
SharahPinky.Librada@travelbook.ph
+63 (917) 530-7464
+63 (2) 662-1199

About TravelBook.ph
TravelBook.ph is leading online travel e-commerce company (online travel agent or OTA) in the Philippines dedicated to offering great value hotel and Tours, activities in Baguio, Batangas, Bohol, Boracay, Cebu, Davao, Laguna, Metro Manila, Palawan, Pampanga, Tagaytay, Zambales, and more. A total of 3,300 affordable hotels are currently listed in Travelbook.ph. TravelBook.ph offers the best price guarantee with attractive discounts for hotels and resorts, and Tour & Activity platform with most convenient payment options which is Pay at hotel No credit card needed.

Travelbook.ph also offers exclusive reward points: Customers also automatically earn back 5% of the total amount they spend as reward points, which they can use to get discounts on their future bookings (1 point is equivalent to PHP 1.00). Customers can also use TravelBook.ph’s convenient mobile app to book accommodations on the go. It is available on the App Store and Google Play.

Lastly, TravelBook.ph is a proud Philippine-based company with 24/7 support. It has a Filipino call center ready to assist customers anytime. They can be reached through these numbers:

Landline: +63 2 662 1111
Globe: +63 917 850 9029
Sun: +63 925 887 2835
Smart: +63 998 961 3012

To know more about convenient and affordable hotel bookings all over the Philippines, visit www.travelbook.ph. Follow TravelBook.ph on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TravelBook.ph/, Twitter https://twitter.com/travelbookph, and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/travelbookph/.
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Get Your Visa Powered Victory Liner Premier Card Now

December 27, 2017, 2:18 am
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One of the best things that I like about Victory Liner is "safety" and you know what I mean. I mean I feel definitely safe every time I travel with them not to mention that they have courteous drivers and you are also insured. And guess what's the latest with them? Well, they're finally offering a Premier Card with exclusive perks and benefits!

With the proliferation of cashless payment technology in the Philippines, Victory Liner is definitely on top of the competition, and I love and find it absolutely amazing that they came up with this card - a card powered by Visa, the world's leader and the largest payment technology in the world!



Victory Liner's reloadable Visa card is you ideal partner for cashless payment and shopping with ease at over 40 million VISA-affiliated stores worldwide.



Buy, register and reload your Victory Liner Premiere Card now to enjoy exclusive benefits:

  • Buy and book Victory Liner bus tickets online. Enjoy a special VIP lane when buying tickets at any Victory Liner station. 
  • Reserve and buy Victory Liner tickets over the phone via our #MYVLI (#69854) hotline. 
  •  Send or receive money transfers and withdrawat any BancNet ATMs nationwide. 
  •  Enjoy special VIP perks and discounts from partner establishments of Victory Liner.
Get yours now! Click here to learn more about Victory Liner's premier Visa card. 
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