Exploring Isla Gigantes

Islas de Gigantes or Gigantes Island is an island chain within the larger Western Visayas archipelago in the Visayan Sea. It is also known as the Island of Giants, located off the coast of Carles and Estancia towns in northeastern Iloilo, Philippines.

This trip is for our son’s 3rd birthday celebration and this the first time we are traveling on our own this far so I was kind of paranoid if this will turn out okay or not. I tried so hard to pack light because in our original booking I wasn’t able to add checked-in luggage but I had to add it on eventually since our clothes will not fit into a small suitcase. Still, I am sort of proud of myself (HAHA) because we only have like a big suitcase for checked-in luggage and one small duffle bag, and the baby bag which is my hand carry.

From Iloilo City, it takes 3-4 hours to get to Carles which is the drop-off point to Gigantes Island. We landed at Iloilo City around 8:00 pm and we checked in at Solinas Beach and Nature Resort which is just 15 minutes from Carles. We avail their Private Van Airport Transfers for Php4,000 ($76.39) one way. Yes, it is a bit expensive but we decided to avail it since we have our son with us it will be hard for us if we will commute especially at night.

We booked “Balay Palangga” or their honeymoon Suite for around Php12,000 ($229.18) for 2 nights and it’s really nice. It has a garden-facing terrace with one (1) queen bed, toilet & bath with a gorgeous hot tub, air-conditioning and a 43″ LCD TV. Definitely worth the price, and breakfast is included which is a buffet. This is our room. ↓

I highly recommend this resort because they have a beautiful place, nice rooms, food is great, staffs are very accommodating and the water in their pool is heated that we actually stayed in the pool area until 6:30pm.

We arrive late like around 11:00 in the evening, we’re glad that our booking specialist already told us that they will take our order in advance, so when we arrived our dinner is already prepared. We got ourselves “sinigang na baboy” since Zared likes his food with “sabaw”. We got Chopseuy and of course baked scallops. Since the restaurant is already close we just had our dinner served in our room. I was so hungry that I only took a photo of the baked scallops. haha! And guys this is very cheap- only Php175 ($3.36).

Day 2: The following day is our Island Tour, instead of getting a van transfer from the resort to Carles Port, we decided to just ride a tricycle because it is cheaper and we saved almost half.

Van Transfer from Solina Resort to Carles- Php300 per way ($5.76)

Tricycle Transfer from Solina Resort to Carles- Php 150 per way ($2.88)

One of the reasons why we choose this resort is again they are just 15mins away from Carles which is the drop-off point for the Isla Gigantes Tour. So it is very convenient for us.

We got our Gigantes Island Tour from Las Islas Travel & Tours for only 999 ($19.19) each with lunch included and it is really cheap. My son is just 3 years old so he is free. So in total, it’s just Php1,998 (38.38).

The tour started around 9:00am and the first stop is at “Pulupandan Islet” it took us an hour to get here from the port. A very small island in the middle of the sea and during the night the high tide covers the most of it.

We only spent around 15mins here. The next stop is “Tangke Saltwater Lagoon”.

The Lagoon is really beautiful, the clear water is just amazing. In this are they highly advice to wear a lifejacket for those who are not a good swimmer since the water is deep.

Third stop is “The Bantigue Sandbar” this is also where we had our lunch.

Our lunch consists, of course, scallops, adobo, some fish and one of the joiners also bought Wasay-Wasay and shared it to us.

The second to the last stop is the “Antonia Island” , this is where tourist can go snorkeling. My husband did, but since my son is with us- I wasn’t really able to go swimming. haha!

And last but not least, The “Cabugao Gamay Island” which is also known as the “Selfie Island”. It will take you 10minutes to go up and get a picture-perfect photo with this view.

The view on the top is just really amazing!

We finish the tour around 4:00pm. I was hoping to get a rest when we get back to the resort but my son is too active and still wants to play and swim haha!

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Day 3: Is our check out date and we just spent our spare time swimming and chilling on the beach/pool and waited for the time. This is also the day we are heading to Guimaras. (Will have a different blog for this).

Day 4: We arrived in Iloilo City around 4:00pm and we check-in at Urban Sands Hotel, which is just 20-30mins away from the Iloilo International Airport.

Urban Sands Hotel has a beach vibe and the rooms are small good for couples or a family of three. Very comfortable and modern. I booked their Superior Room with a queen bed for Php2914.18 ($56). The room has a 32 inch LED television with cable connection and USB port, a bathroom with a hot and cold shower, telephone, a refrigerator with minibar and snacks and also all rooms are located at the poolside. The Kiddie pool is located in the far end of the pool with a jacuzzi feels on it. The water is warm and very relaxing. They also have a bar where you can order drinks and food.

I highly recommend this Hotel for those who have early flights the next day as they are just located in the heart of the city approximately 30mins away from the Airport. And it is really nice, not a typical hotel vibe.

Our flight tomorrow is 5:30am so we just swim, eat and sleep.

The taxi we rented from the port to this hotel when we came from Guimaras is also the same taxi we rented for our transfer to the airport which is cheaper, as if you avail the hotel transfers it will be Php800 per way ($15.37) but we got our transfers for only Php300 ($5.76) way cheaper, right? Grab taxi is also available in Iloilo by the way.

Anyways guys, thank you very much hope this travel blog will give you tips on traveling to Iloilo/ Gigantes. ♥

Taxi Driver (Iloilo city): 09500350721

September 5, 2019 0

The Wow’s of El Nido

This is my first time to visit El Nido and it makes me want to go back.

March 23, 2019 7:15pm, we landed in Puerto Princesa Airport and went straight to El Nido. From PPS to El Nido it will take 4-5hrs travel time, for Php500 fare. ($9.61)

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I arrived in Our Melting Pot Hostel around 3am and it’s not time to sleep yet as I need to work. haha! I worked from 3am to 11am that day while waiting for my friend to arrive.

So basically stayed at that hostel just to work, I do not recommend this kind of hostel if you are not used to small toilets and high bunk beds, I wasn’t able to stay on the bed itself as it is so high, that I think I might fall anytime especially on getting up and down from the bed. So I stayed at the Hostel’s lobby all the time, but it is affordable- for Php550 ($10.57) per night per person (with breakfast) on their 7 Mixed Dorm type bed.

Breakfast that day includes Pandesal, coffee, banana, and some pancakes. I like the view while eating breakfast ‘cos from their breakfast area -you can see Taraw Cliff.

Breakfast at Our Melting Pot Hostel (Free)

After breakfast around 9am, I decided to transfer to Novie’s Tourist Inn, which we will stay for the next 4 days and since I only had coffee at the hostel, I also ordered a full breakfast meal- Tocilog.

Breakfast at Novie’s Tourist Inn (Php 150 or $2.88) Drinks not yet included- Mango Shake is for (Php80/ $1.54)

We spent Php5,400 ($103.81) in an AC room for 3 and that’s for 3 nights and 4 days already. So that’s only Php1,800 ($34.60) each – super affordable for 3 nights stay. Right? And the place is so relaxing, surrounded by plants and the room has a clean toilet and bath, and comfy beds too. ( 1 single bed and 1 queen bed) and the staff are all very welcoming and accommodating.

We also got our island tour from them as well as the van transfers (PPS-El Nido and El Nido to PPS)- hassle-free.

So I finished my work around 11am and since my friend and my husband is not yet arriving, I decided to try the Taraw Canopy Walk while waiting since it’s just 10mins away from Novie’s Inn. Entrance is Php400 ($7.69) per person (includes helmet, harness and a guide)

I heard from the locals that hiking Taraw Cliff has been prohibited because there had been accidents but they are able to this as an alternative, which is safer. But there are still a few people who choose to take the risk to see the beauty of El Nid, but this one is okay for me for now.

The great thing about this experience was the tour guide are well trained not only for the canopy walk but also with taking good photos! Just look at this photo above. ⇑ WOW!

It only took me about 30mins with this experience and went back to Novie’s Inn.

In the afternoon, we decided to just chill at Las Cabanas Beach which is just 15mins away- The water is so nice, there are several bars and restaurants in the place which is now been develop with commercial buildings. I hope they will be able to preserve the cleanliness of the beach.

One thing I advise, do not order fruit shakes from the people walking around the beach and offering drinks, it is so expensive and not good at all. Sorry! Just my own opinion- It is better to buy drinks and food outside then just bring it since it’s a public beach so it is allowed to bring your own food/drinks.

Then we spent our night at Outpost Beach Hostel as they also have a bar. This was actually our first choice when we are looking for a place to stay but they are fully booked. I wasn’t able to take photos here. 😦

The Next Day, we are scheduled for our Tour A. We pay for Php1400 ($28.82) for the Tour which includes fees and lunch.

PS: If you guys have aqua shoes, you better bring it as there are parts of the tour that will have rocky sands, some locals offer rentals for Php100 ($1.92) But it would save you some money if you bring your own.

The tour also includes transfer from the Inn to the pickup point of the boat.

This is where we ate lunch, tadaaah!! eating time!!

We finished around 4 in the afternoon and head back to Novie’s Inn and took a nap.

That night we just chill with some drinks and pizza from Trattoria Altrov’e. Then Decided to call it a day and sleep early.

The next day is scheduled for a Land Tour- very exciting as we hired a motorbike to go around El Nido. We managed to get a tour guide which includes the rental of motorcycle for only Php1500 ($28.84) for 2 people for the whole day.

Kuya Ernie is also my tour guide during my Taraw Canopy Walk experience and that day happens to his day off so it’s kind of an extra income for him. Contact him here if you want to have him as your tour guide. +639452979194. I highly advise to call him days before you plan your land tour to make sure he is available.

GPTempDownload 30.JPG — My friend Eljay with Kuya Ernie the tour guide.

We started around 9:00 am and decided to go to Nacpan Twin Beach first,

It takes 30-45mins from El Nido proper to Nacpan, (depending on how fast you drive)

Nacpan Beach is said to be the most beautiful beach around El Nido town and some vloggers said it can be the next Boracay. But I really hope this stays as what it is, raw and beautiful. There are several stores offering food, drinks, and this fresh buko juice.

We stayed for about 30mins, had buko juice with booze, swim and of course picture taking. (IG is life haha)

Next, Duli beach which is about 15-20 minutes away from Nacpan. This 2 km beach is just wow- picture perfect. Clear blue water, white sand, palm trees- what more can I ask for? and oh yeah it said to have seven months per year good waves to surf! Yes! they have surfing here in El Nido!

From Duli Beach, we ate lunch and head straight to Lio Beach and stayed there to chill and rest.

We can see airplanes from our spot since just a few minutes from here is the Lio Airport, where small airplanes can land from Manila, this way you can save 5hrs land travel from Puerto Princesa- buuuutttt it is expensive so we still prefer Puerto because we love Piso fare. haha!

After the land tour, we just decided to chill again at Las Cabanas Beach and again call it a day.

The following day we left El Nido in the morning as we need to be in Puerto Princesa before 3 in the afternoon because of work.

El Nido has so much to offer and 4 days is not enough. If you have plans on going to El Nido better get all the tours if you have lots of budget- as there are lots of islands here that are really beautiful- and also make sure to visit Nacpan, Duli, and Lio beach. Specially Nacpan- it’s a must! There is an option to rent a tricycle or van instead of a single motorcycle for the land tour. So it depends on how many are you and how much budget you have.

Another travel bucket list checked on my list.

August 16, 2019 0

Awesome Weekend with Awesome Friends

The weekend has always been a family day for us that’s why when we heard about my friend’s birthday plan for La Union, I decided to yes and this time with our little one.

We decided to hire a private van for this tour and we decided to stay at Awesome hotel while our friends stayed at Camp Avenue.

Yes, we stayed on a difference accommodation because we do not want to risk the health of our baby as he is just 2yrs old and he has sensitive skin, in Camp Avenue the only available accommodation is tent good for two w/o electric fan- so its a no for us for now. It is better to be “maarte mom” than to be sorry.

Anyways, these are the rates with Camp Avenue,

ACCOMMODATION RATES *INCLUSIVE OF BREAKFAST

ADULT= FULL AMOUNT

7-12 YRS. OLD= 50% rate

6 yrs. and below= free of charge

•Common restroom • Fan type accommodation, no a/c rooms • Rate is per head

>Indo Balihut Php 1200 per person/night (min. of 2 pax per hut) inclusive of entrance fee, complete bedding s, electric fan, outlet, towel, toiletries, bottled water. >Glamping Tent Php 1000 per person/night Capacity: Good for 2 Good for 3 Good for 4 Good for 6 Inclusive of entrance fee, complete beddings, electric fan, outlet, towel, toiletries, bottled water. >Tent Rental 750/pax/night Good for 2 Good for 3 Good for 4 Good for 6 Inclusion: Entrance fee, Camping tent, insulation foam, throw pillow, toiletries. >Tent Pitching (OWN TENT no need for Reservation) Php 500 per person/ night Inclusive of Entrance fee, Space rental. For Day Tour, we charge Php100 per person. Inclusions- usage of shower areas, comfort rooms, tables and chairs, and beach area. Schedule (swimming). (8AM – 10PM) Camp in: 2PM Camp out 10 AM

Since we arrived early, we decided to stay at Camp Avenue and pay for the day tour charge of 100/ head. We had our breakfast there and chill at the beachfront while waiting for the check-in time.

My son enjoyed playing in the sand.

Here in Camp Avenue they also offer a pottery lesson just check with the front desk for details.

We decided to go out for lunch since the food at Camp Avenue is not that good- just okay. I guess it is because there are really lots of tourists that day- just look at these tents.

We had our lunch in a resto just across Sebay Surf Central since that area is like the main spot for eating and drinking and buying stuff. We stayed there until our check-in time which is 2:00 pm.

We checked in at Awesome Hotel while our friends went back to CA to start their drinking session. hehe!

So this is the pool area and the beach of Awesome hotel. It’s quite compared to the beach of the other resorts.

I wasn’t able to take a picture of our room but you can take a look at their website for more details. We pay 6,000 / night for a standard ground room good for 2 and toddler is free. (5yrs old below) .The room can accommodate up to 3 adults but the third person has an extra charge (No idea how much)

The room is very nice classic modern style very comfortable beddings and has flatscreen tv, cabinet, safe, blow-dry, and a mini-fridge. And oh! of course, let’s not forget the Wi-Fi. haha!

After some swimming, snack and chilling- We headed back to CA before dinner for some drinks as it is my friend’s birthday, but we only stayed for a few hours as my son needs to sleep early. And this is what we got for sunset.

By the way, that’s CA’s Bali hut accommodation.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY VERY SPECIAL FRIEND “JEKWA”

HAHA LOVE YOU, MAN!

After a few hours, we went back to the hotel for Dinner time.

I had nasi lemak for dinner. The food here is great! although it is a little expensive compared to the food outside the resort – it is WORTH IT! So yummy!

Day 2: Last day!

Breakfast is included in their rates and here’s my breakfast:

Swimming time!

All in all, we recommend the Awesome Hotel for families who want to relax and to have a bonding time. It’s very relaxing and worth the price.

Camp Avenue is recommended for friends and couple who likes camping and wants to experience party by the beach, yeah I forgot to mention above that CA host parties usually during weekends and holidays, just check their facebook page. It’s fun according to my friends.

Update for Awesome Hotel: Construction is ongoing for their second building I guess and I am telling you- it is huge! and I am thinking that they are planning to put an infinity pool on it. Hopefully haha! I am excited to go back.

Ciao!

For Van rental contact:

Kuya Boyet- 09567937283

June 14, 2019 0

Elyu need is Love.

And waves! 🌊🌊🌊

Location: Urbiztondo, La Union

October 7, 2018

La Union is one of the famous tourist spots in the North, mainly because of the Waves! Surfers from different places come here to surf.

But LU is not only for surfers, Me and my friends decided to go here to just chill and relax.

From Cubao, we took a bus to La Union, takes about 4-5hours of travel time. Fare is about 500+

We stayed at Sebay Surf Central. Rates vary so just check their website. During surf season they are always fully booked, so better to book earlier than your travel dates.

This is the wallpaper of our room. Cool Right?

The resort is okay, barkada friendly as they have rooms that can accommodate up to 10 pax. They also have their own restaurant (which is beachfront) and food is okay too but a little expensive so I suggest if you’re on budget travel- you can eat outside the resort- just on the other side of the road there are small restaurant that offers budget meals.

Aside from surfing, elyu is now also known for its party vibe. One of the famous spots is the Flotsam and Jetsam Artist Beach Hostel, this is actually our first choice to stay but they are fully booked when we check, but we made sure to visit the place that night.

We had our dinner here and some drinks.

The next morning, Me and my girls decided to have our coffee at El Union Coffee.

It was definitely a memorable trip again for us, more to come!

October 9, 2018 0

Republ1c Wake Park- Nuvali

Looking for new experience, exciting water sport aside from surfing?

Then here is the answer.

Just an hour away from Manila is Republ1c Wake Park, Located in West Diversity Boulevard Nuvali. Such a great place to spend a weekend with your friends or family.

How to go there:

→ Well, the easiest way is to take the Point to point bus to Nuvali. Drop off points: Ayala Center (Makati Ave. in front of Landmark), Paseo De Roxas (corner of Ayala Ave.) & Circuit Lane. Check Schedule here:

Don’t forget to bring a beep card with a load.

Fare is 150 per way. So load up 300. 🙂

→From Nuvali Transport Terminal take a shuttle bus to Republ1c Wake Park.

Ps: You will be waiting here especially if you in a small group or else if you are willing to rent the whole van for 350 one way. Yes one way.

TIP: EAT at the transport Terminal before going to Republ1c. why? Read! ⇓

Going home – same route but you have to walk like 5mins from the park to the main road and wait for the shuttle (Php20) to Nuvali Transport Terminal then just wait for the next p2p bus to Makati.

Here’s the rates and schedule.

For the first-timer, I suggest getting the 4 hours, why? trust me it takes time to get the balance on the board- 1 hour or 2 is not enough.

And, once you got the balance and go know how to move on the board, Trust me again, you want to do it again and again and AGAIN. haha!

And they also have a shop in case you want this sport to be your hobby, change of career and you want to be a professional wakeboarder. Just prepare a huge amount of money for the whole set up. A sample is that blackboard cost Php 23,500 while the other one is Php 27,500!

The park has its own restaurant. Bringing of food/ drinks from outside is NOT allowed.

So this is one thing you need to remember: The food here is a little bit pricey especially the water. They don’t have free water so be prepared to spend more money on water haha! But food? I would say, it’s okay for the price. They have pizza too.

They have beer pong and billiards too. I just don’t know the exact amount for the rental.

They also have alcoholic drinks for people planning to stay overnight and sometimes they also host a party with Dj’s.

The night we stayed there Dj Bong Mnlpz was there so the music is really good.

The reason why we did not play the beer pong: ⇓ Hahaha!

Pool Area: (5ft) has a great view too.

For Beginners / First Timer:

Cable just goes in one straight line. Kids with a minimum age of 7 years old are allowed, provided you sign a waiver.

For Pro/ Advance:

More intense especially with those ramps! 🙂

More pictures!!!

Planning to stay overnight?

Yes! They also have room accommodations here.

We stayed in one of their standard rooms.(Door no.2 ) And for me, it’s okay and worth it for the price.

Standard- Php 1800/ night for 2 beds and Php 3500/ night for 4 beds.

Deluxe- Php 2500/ night

Premium- Php 3500/ night for 2 adults

For room photos check their website here:

All rooms are air-conditioned with Television. They don’t have private restrooms. The set up is like a locker- style restrooms.

Restrooms are clean and have enough cubicle to accommodate their guest. They also have another restroom near the restaurant.

Overall, it was a great experience and a weekend well spent with the squad.

Cheers! ♥

August 24, 2018 0

Wow Siquijor

Siquijor Island is known for its Mystic Traditions, Supernatural entities but when I finally see the island- The first word comes to my mind is WOW!

From Dumaguete we take GL Shipping Lines Ferry to Siquijor for Php 140 ($3) then Php 15 terminal fee which will be paid before entering the port. It takes 1 1/2 for the travel time for a regular ferry. If you choose to take the OceanJet – it is faster but the fare is around Php 250 ($5) Check schedule here

Ps: Be there early so you can check the earliest schedule- there are few shipping lines to choose from.

From the port, there will be people offering tours like Van Rental, Tricycle or Motorcycle. by the way, you need to have a license to drive a motorcycle in Siquijor.

Tip: It is easier if buy your return ticket before you go around the island especially if you’re only here for a day tour. This will secure your slot going back to DGT.

We choose to rent Kuya Rio – a tricycle driver who is also a trained Tour Guide.

Trivia: I watched several foreign vloggers who visited Siquijor and he’s on their video, so I guess he is really good!

First, since we just arrived on the island, we decided to rest for a while and put our things in the resort which cost us Php 250 ($5) (One way).

The tour cost Php 1,000 ($20) for 3 pax with normal weight. YES! you read it right, they charge extra if you are extra-large. haha funny but yes because apparently, Kuya Rio said it is harder to go to the higher part of the island if the passenger is heavy- make sense. haha! It also depends on how many pax.

We stayed at Glamping Siquijor.

For ocean view tent for 4 pax it cost Php 3, 500 ($70) including Light breakfast which is Donuts and coffee.

Glamping accommodation comes with free use of the gas stove, utensils and condiments in case you want to cook/grill.

And this is their common bathroom. YES! hot and cold shower baby! 🙂

Camping site with a hot and cold shower!!!

So since it is habagat when we went here, the shore doesn’t really look nice – but still look at the sand.

We arrived almost lunch so we ask Kuya Rio to just go back after lunch for the tour.

We ate at D’ Barkads Eatery- It is Sulit and the food is great and not so expensive and safe. They have permit and certification from the Siquijor Government.

One of our Favorite is the Mango Shake. Very delicious and the glass holder is so Cute. 🙂 They have a lot of meals to choose from and they also offer Silog for breakfast.

After lunch, we headed to our first stop: Old Enchanted Balete Tree

It’s a 400-plus year-old balete tree which is 8 meters up to 20 meters high.

This balete tree has a spring from its base, flowing straight into the man-made pool where you can swim in this cold spring or you can just dip your feet into the cold spring and experience fish spa 🙂

The tree is can be found in Brgy. Campalanas, Lazi, Siquijor where you can also buy souvenirs.

Next stop: Broom Shot

Funny thing is this is not on our list but thanks to kuya Rio, He told us that we can have good photos here and it’s for free- you can give donation not required but of course for the effort of the Kuya who took the photo, might as well give some.

Please use the hashtag #Broomshotchallenge so they can be more famous. They also have a small store with souvenirs and the location of this place is really good.

Next: Cambugahay Falls

Warning: When you get there it is very easy but going up with wet clothes? haha! I’m gonna leave it for you to experience haha!

This is one of the popular destination in the Island. The three-tiered falls is also in Lazi.

We decided not to go on the other falls since this is where the swing is located. For Php 20 (Less than $1) you can enjoy the unlimited swing. Rental of Life jacket is Php 150 ($3)

kapit lang beshy! ha ha

HAHAHA I’m falling!

Next is Salagdoong Beach near Maria northeast side of Siquijor island.

This is where the famous cliff diving is located.

Well, since I do not really know how to swim, photos are good enough for me. haha! Man the cliff is high. I promise!

Jumping on the cliff is only possible if its high tide, there are picnic tables that can be rented if you’re planning to stay longer but for us we just checked the cliff take photos and stayed at their restaurant and ate halo-halo. 🙂

photo (c) siquijor-island.com/salagdoong-beach/

This is how it looks like in drone shot. WOW! breathtaking!

On the way to Salagdoong Beach is the Man-Made Molave Forest

It is nice to take a photo here with your special someone like holding hands together in the middle of the road hehe! Sweet!

It’s like a tunnel of trees-Beautiful but just imagine this place when it’s dark. haha!

From here we made a stop to the famous San Isidro Labrador or also known as Lazi Church and Convent of Lazi but wasn’t able to take a photo ‘cos its under renovation. Here’s a photo from google for reference.

The Lazi Church is known to be the oldest church in Siquijor Island. The church as finished in 1884.

The Lazi Convent also has a Museum inside – entrance fee of Php 20 (less than $1) and you can see the collection inside. The convent is said to be the oldest and largest convent in Asia. Constructed in 1887.

Church of St. Francis of Assisi will welcome you to the Island. The century-old church is constructed from 1795 to 1831 and it’s made of coral stones.

We also made a stop on a local market to buy water and other kinds of stuff.

For dinner and for some drinks we went to Monkey Business– one of the famous local bars in Siquijor. Food is worth the price- drinks are amazing – look at these the have a special mix of drinks. =)

The place is full of foreigners – (if only I’m single lol just joking) haha!

This place is recommended especially if you want to chill after a tiring day because they have good music too. live acoustic band. 🙂

It’s a great experience to stay at Glamping Siquijor. Not the usual camping. 🙂

So the next day we just spent the morning walking on the shore then ate lunch and head back to the port to buy our return ticket.

Tip: If you will travel in this kind of season (habagat) choose to travel in the morning or like lunchtime schedule because the waves can be really scary -as in. Very thankful for the ship crew of Aleson Shipping Lines that is so accommodating. Some of them went inside to check on us and talk to us.

By the way, we choose the business class Php 250 ($5) which is air-conditioned on the second floor of the boat. They also have a toilet (It is clean- YEY!

We arrived in Dumaguete City Around 2pm. Safe! Thank God! 🙂

Aside from the destination mentioned above, you can also visit the Cantabon Cave which requires a little bit of trekking also they said there are a group of people what they called “Siquijor Healers” in that area. You have to a lot at least 3hrs for that day. I’ll make sure to put this on my list the next time I come back.

You may also visit the following if you have a lot of time.

Guiwanon Spring Park

Capilay Spring Park– we were able to see this it’s in a public place but it is very clean.

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary

Our Lady of Divine Providence Church

Also, recently Skydivecebu launches a tandem sky diving in Siquijor. The location is near the airport. I believe they have scheduled so it’s better if you check on them first. Pricey ( Php 19,000 ($380) but this is one of my bucket lists so surely I will try this if not in siquijor maybe in Cebu. haha!

check their website: https://skydivecebu.com/product/tandem-skydive-siquijor/

Wow! I can really say “I left my heart in Siquijor” especially with the beaches! Really beautiful and I hope the island will be able to maintain it, especially the tourism is starting to boom, my friend said this is like Siargao also where you can see a lot of tourists especially foreigners. ( I can’t say yet ‘cos I haven’t been in Siargao)

I’m IN LOVE. ♥

For more stories and facts about Siquijor and other destinations in the Philippines follow http://www.traveltrilog y.com

Tricycle Tour- Rio Angas 09066464463

Andy (Manager of Glamping Siquijor) -09085319763

For questions feel free to ping me 🙂

August 10, 2018 2

Manjuyod Sandbar and Dolphin Watch

The Maldives of the Philippines and Dolphin watching- Bais, Negros Oriental.

The best time to visit Manjuyod is early morning, we arrived in Bais around 6:30am then we went to the market to buy Bangus and Liempo for our lunch.

From Dumaguete to Bais fare is Php 60 ($1) for non-air-con and Php 70 ($1.50) for the air-conditioned bus.

Tricycle from Bais city to Capiñahan Wharf. is Php 100 ($2) one way.

The sand bar is not that visible when we visit because according to the tour guide, the best time to visit and to see the whole sand bar is during the dry season, we are lucky enough to see some of it since when we arrived it’s still low tide.

Tip: Contact tour guide and boatman 2 weeks prior to your visit to check the Tide Forecast. The best time is from March to May to see the 7 km stretch of powdery white sand.

We contacted a private boat for our tour because it’s cheaper- please make sure to visit Bais tourism office before going to Capiñahan Wharf.

Our boat rental cost Php 2,000 ($40) for 3 people but usually, they charge from Php 2,500-3,000 ($50- $60) we had a discount because a couple joined us during that trip.

So first stop, is the sandbar to see some of it since in just a few hours it’s gonna get high.

Before we leave the sandbar area – we bought half a kilo of wild oyster for Php 150 ($3).

Eat this raw with vinegar. Yum!

Kuya cocoy and one of his guys -also cooked lunch for us with no extra charge, we also shared our food with them.

Tip: While in bais, buy all the things you need like puso (rice), water, fish, liempo, etc. Although some small boats sa may cottages area also offer fish and they will cook it din for you but with charge and you have to wait for it and if they have a lot of customers then you know what will happen hehe! so it is still better if you buy from the bais market then Kuya cocoy will cook for you again they do not charge extra for that it’s kinda part of the tour package. The majority of the boat has grilling materials and also they have a toilet.

After sandbar, we went to Tañon Strait for the Dolphin Watching. From 6am to 10am in the morning, the chances of seeing dolphins and whales in Bais are great.

Well, it’s not easy to see them during this season especially with the habagat so the waves are extra big, we literally need to chase them ha ha! I don’t have a nice picture so these photos below are screenshots from video clips.

We spend almost 1 1/2 hr in this area! hehe, it was a great experience seeing these dolphins in the wild.

After dolphin watching, we went to the area where the floating cottage is located: By the way as far as I know Bais Tourism offers the cottages I am not just sure with the rates. I tried to contact them via email about 2 monts before this travel but unfortunately, they do not respond. The tide is a little bit high na by this time so the sand bar is not really that visible. In this area, there are some locals offering ng banana boat and other water activities.

Talabong Mangrove Forest – This one is close na daw sa public. Sayang! But here’s a photo for your reference.

If you don’t want to wake up early you can always stay sa Bais, there are also hotels in the area.

We finished around 12nn and headed back to Capiñahan Wharf. We reached Dumaguete around 2pm just in time to take a rest before our flight.

Definitely, a must on your list when you visit Dumaguete.

For Boat Tour contact:

Kuya Cocoy- 09972295841

August 10, 2018 0

Come on and Get me- DumaGetMe

Capital of Negros Oriental, this city has so much to offer for travelers.

Dumaguete is listed 5th in Forbes Magazine’s “7 Best Places to Retire Around the World”

From historical places to beach resorts, dive sites, falls, lakes and food, name it -they have it. This city also attracts a lot of foreign tourists because of easy access to other destinations like Siquijor and Cebu City and let’s not forget Apo Island is just 45 mins – 1hr boat ride from Dauin, Dumaguete.

We arrive in Dumaguete 31st of July in the morning and the service from the resort is patiently waiting outside the airport – Thank God He waited for kasi our flight was delayed for like an hour. So, it was a 20 mins ride from the airport to Dauin.

For Public transport, the jeep terminal to Dauin is near Robinson’s Place Dumaguete and the fare is around Php 13.

In our case, our accommodation comes with free transfers so its hassle-free kasi hatid-sundo kami. We stayed at El dorado Beach Resort on our first night. (Recommended)

For 3 Pax its Php4,902 around $99- breakfast included. It’s nice because the room is spacious, and toiletries are complete with towels and mini bar which has drinks inside They will charge you upon checkout if you consume some of it. It is better to check the availability with them a few weeks before your visit and price depend on the room and number of people- Our room is good for a maximum of 4 people.

Tip: It is faster if you email them. 🙂

Originally our plan for our first day is to visit Apo Island– sadly we’re late na masyado- advice nila is to start the tour early in the morning around 8am but we arrive at the resort almost lunchtime na- so we decided to have lunch na muna then just visit the Dauin Marine Sanctuary

For food, ayyy bongga. ha ha! The Restaurant is very good for offering Asian, Italian and Swiss Specialties. They have Italian ice cream as well! And PIZZA!! It is a must-try. It’s a long wait but it’s worth it. You can play billiards while waiting.

Dinner (Pizza, Pasta, Salad and a very nice lemonade)

Lunch( Forgot the name of the food but its chicken ha ha)

Breakfast coffee with salad- Cheese is soo good!

Swiss Meal

Breakfast salad bar.

We rented snorkeling gear for Php300 ($6) and walked to the site- its a 10-minute walk lang naman along the shore. But you also have an option to take tricycle – on our way back to the resort we rented a tricycle kasi we’re tired na -its a bit expensive Php 70 ($1.50) for the three of us- parang special trip – ganon pero malapit lang talaga.

Dauin has a lot of popular resorts and a few restaurants and they have a few sanctuaries here wherein fishing is not allowed. Mainit sanctuary, Luca sanctuary, Dauin sanctuary, and Masaplod sanctuary, that’s why it is popular for Scuba diving and snorkeling.

Don’t expect white sand here- it’s like dark gray to black pero it’s really nice, we saw a lot of foreigners diving in this area too.

I was able to see a lot of fish kahit sa mababaw na part lang then Kuya guide naman will help you go sa malalim na part to see the corals. Sayang we don’t have gopro nakalimutan.

They said – there’s pawikan din kaso they usually show up in the afternoon eh medjo scary kasi malakas ang alon due to Habagat. We finished around 2pm and headed back to the resort to rest and take photos.

PS: we paid 300 kay kuya Arnold (Guide) He’s an employee of the resort pero the resort will tell you na directly na sa tao nila ung bayad namen for Guide Fee. Nice db? At least alam mo buo makukuha ni kuya ung money. And he is mabait kasi ine-encourage nya tlga kami pumunta sa area na maraming fish and i-guide ka tlga nya until ma-satisfy ka sa mga makikita mo under the sea. 🙂

The resort is really nice and instagramable. 🙂 They have spa services too.

They also offer scooter rental if you want to explore Dauin, as far as I know, may falls din kasi on this area- the resort itself offers Apo Island Tour, Oslob Tour, and dive classes.

You may check other Dauin Resorts here.

Dumaguete City Tour

For City Tour- Number one on my list is Silliman University

By the way, I took photos using my iPhone 8 and my friend’s camera- Fuji X-A2

Silliman University– founded on August 28, 1901, as Silliman Institute and the country’s first Protestant university and the first American university in Asia.

The University is just a few minutes away from Dumaguete Port and just in front of Rizal Boulevard and it’s just really relaxing when you enter the university it’s like green everywhere: Just look at the photos. ⇓

The university is named after Dr. Horace Brinsmade Silliman

The building at the back of Dr. Horace’s statue is the first and oldest building in the University- “The Silliman Hall”

Constructed in the early 1900s. It was converted to a museum in 1970. Today, Silliman Hall is still intact and looks amazing- ⇓

In 1970, this building was used to be the Anthropology Museum that is transferred to Hibbard Hall in 2015.

Luckily, while checking the building, the hall is open and the guy who is cleaning let me in and even turned on the lights for me. So nice of him 🙂

Silliman University Church and The Amphitheater.

Silliman University Anthropology Museum

Located on the 2nd floor of Hibbard Hall- This Museum is just incredible the collection is archaeological items from previous excavation all over Negros and parts of Mindanao.

Taking photos of artifacts is not allowed so this is all I got.

And oh Before I forgot- there is a Php 50 entrance fee to enter the Museum and bring an ID- the guard asked me to show an ID – so just bring one to make sure. 🙂

Just a few steps from Silliman is the Rizal Boulevard where you can also see the Sisters of St Paul of Chartres Monument.

While on the other side you can already see the Dumaguete Port.

Ung water sa port nila? ay goals! he he! sana sa manila din lol

A few more steps from Rizal Boulevard is the Famous Sans Rival Cakes and Pastries.

So yes, food is always part of the tour. So break time muna. Ha Ha!

Don’t forget to try the famous Sans Rival – a slice of it cost only Php32.

I thought eating here is expensive- hindi pala. Their Solo Lasagna only cos Php92 super busog na ako . Solve. Okay Continue na sa pagiikot. 🙂

Next: Dumaguete Belfry “Campanerio” and Quezon Park.

The Belfry is one of the oldest bell towers in the Visayas. Originally constructed in the 1760’s then rebuilt around 1870, it’s of the most significant remnants of Dumaguete City’s history.

More photos inside Quezon Park.

Across the street from Quezon Park and standing next to Belfry is the beautiful St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral. Laid in 1754 and finished construction in 1776.

On our last day we stayed at Gabby’s Bed and Breakfast:

Again, this place is recommended for Backpackers as they offer cheap rooms and the place itself is nice. Instagramable. 🙂

Our room is good for 3 Pax for Php 1650. Cheap. Right? Aircon, hot and cold shower and with free light breakfast. Well in our case we paid an extra Php 500 for a late checkout but still for a room good for 3- this is considered as cheap. 🙂

Check-in: 2pm Check-out: 12nn

Check out the surroundings.

The whole place is full of paintings, doodles and I’m happy hehe!

Colorful. 🙂

You can contact them here: 09063283374

Aug 3- 7:05pm is our flight back to Manila. We went to the airport early para sure. So while waiting for the boarding hindi ka ma-boring cause they have music: Don’t forget to donate. 🙂

There is a small canteen that you can buy food and drinks while waiting may mga souvenir shops na rin sa loob ng airport.

They also have a small charging station in case low bat ka,

I will surely go back to this beautiful place. Super worth it ung pagod and expenses. 🙂

DumaGetme. Na-get mo ang puso ko. ♥

PS: will be posting a different article for the ITE and expenses 🙂

SEA YAH! ♥ )

August 6, 2018 0

Real, Quezon 2018

So, after four years I was able to visit again this surf spot in Quezon. It was 2014 when I first see this place (See blog post here) and for the nth time- sunrise here is worth it.