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Cebu Travel Guide: Places To Visit In Cebu City

Posted on February 11, 2019February 1, 2020

Cebu City is now the most developed and busiest city in the Visayas Region. It became as progressive as Manila where a lot of businesses and commercial establishments rises on the metropolitan city. But despite the busy lifestyle the city has to offer, it is still a worthy place where culture and beautiful attractions meet the modern city.

So here’s some of the tourist attractions within Cebu City vicinity that you can pay a visit.

Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño

It is considered as one of the most famous landmark of the Cebu Island. The church was founded in 1565 and said to be the oldest Catholic Church of our country.

Magellan’s Cross

It is just located few steps away from the entrance of Sto. Niño Church. Magellan’s Cross is a Christian cross planted by the Spanish explorers headed by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 that patent the natal of Christianity on our land.

Cebu Taoist Temple

It is a Taoist temple built in 1972 located in Beverly Hills, Cebu City. It has one of a kind architectural structure and a great spot to have a good view of Cebu City from above. It is open to the public (even non-worshippers) and a perfect venue for your morning jog.

Tops Lookout

Tops lookout gives tourists a chance of seeing the striking Cebu City skyline. The perfect time to visit this place is during the early morning and late afternoon to prevent exposing yourself on too much sun during noon and early afternoon. The place provides a panoramic view of the whole Cebu City and Mactan Island. During the night, the view makes more captivating as you can see the city lit up and bright up through the dark.

Temple of Leah

It is being tagged as the “Taj Mahal” of the Philippines. It was built by Teodorico Soriano Adarna in 2012 as a symbol of his undying love for his wife Leah Villa Adarna. It has Greek and Roman inspired architecture that makes the temple more fascinating.

Sirao Garden – Little Amsterdam

This flower garden will give you a taste of Europe! The garden is fmous for its Celosia flowers that has a combination of red, yellow, pink and orange and being used as the official flower of Sinulog Festival. There are other flowers aside from Celosia and they put up a windmill making the place more Europe-ish. There’s so much beauty and colors on the garden that you can’t stop looking on this breathtaking place.

Sirao Pictorial Garden and Camping Site

Yes, you read it right! There is another Sirao Garden and it is located just beside the Sirao Garden – Little Amsterdam (It will actually comes first). It is as picturesque as the little Amsterdam so you can take as many creative pictures as you can.

10 000 Roses

Though it is located in Mactan Island, this place is just an hour away from the Cebu main Island. This is where led-powered roses attraction started that eventually became famous across the country. It has 10,000 artificial flowers where a café stands at the center. Perfect time to visit this is during the late afternoon to witness the sunset and watch how beautifully the led-roses lit up at night.

Cebu Downtown (Colon Street)

I really loved how a province downtown highlights the old commercial history of the place. The busy streets of Cebu downtown were once the heart of Cebu City’s shopping and commercial activities before bigger known malls came to the picture. While visiting the Colon Street you will see how the past meets the present era. The place is a portrait of a busy and crowded street during the day and night.

Fort San Pedro

It is located in Plaza Independencia near the Pier area and was built as a military defense structure under the command of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. Fort San Pedro is said to be the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines. You can pay a visit to learn more about the rich history of the province.

I’ve been in Cebu thrice and even live there for three months but the province still never failed to leave me in awe everytime I visit. Have you ever been to Cebu? Share your experience below!

Sunshine Farm Philippines: A Sunflower Farm To Visit In Tiaong, Quezon

Posted on February 1, 2019January 30, 2021

For me, sunflowers are more than just flowers. With its bright yellow color, it brings so much happiness, positivity that reminds us to look on the brighter side of everything. Sunflower farms are now starting to emerge as one of the known tourist attractions around the country. One of them can be found just 2-3 hours away from Manila! You can now visit the Sunshine Farm PH located in Tiaong, Quezon to get a chance to see these happy flowers.

About Sunshine Farm Philippines

Sunshine Farm is more than just a farm. It is a farm with higher cause and advocacy. The farm ,that hires PWDs as workers, aims to provide a sustainable livelihood to PWDs (Persons with Disability), uplift their drive and break the stigma that they can’t do anything. Sunshine Farm gives hope, inspiration and equal chances to persons with exceptionalities making your visit more worthy and meaningful.

It is being owned by Rhodora Palomar-Fresnedi, a PWD advocate. Located in Brgy. Lalig, Tiaong, Quezon with a P100 entrance fee, you can enjoy yourself with its IG-worthy sunflowers and be part of the farm’s advocacy.

How to go to Sunshine Farm PH?

Manila to Sunshine Farm

Ride a bus from Manila (Cubao, Buendia, Alabang) bound to Lucena. Tell the driver to drop you off in Brgy. Lalig, Tiaong or simply tell the driver to drop you on Sunshine Farm.

Lucena to Sunshine Farm

Ride a Manila-bound bus and tell the driver to drop you off in Sunshine Farm in Brgy. Lalig.

Getting Around Sunshine Farm

The farm has sunflower mazes that serves as its main attraction. The flowers in full bloom will invite you to be ready and take pictures as many as you can. During the day it can be too hot so better bring sunglasses and hats.

The place has its own food house that offers food for affordable prices. You can enjoy a meal for P120 that includes one rice and a choice of viand packed on a bottle jar. What an idea! They also served natural fruit juices. We tried their Dalandan juice for P25 and their natural Pandan juice for P20.

There is a souvenir shop as well on the farm that sells sunflower products. There are sunflower seeds, pins, ref magnets, key chains, purse, soap, shampoo etc. that you can buy.

Aside from the sunflowers itself, there are other variety flowers that blooms on the place and there are other farm attractions that you can enjoy. This recreational place is perfect for relaxation and leisure. See photos below for other attractions.

Other Things To Know Before Going:

Entrance Fee is P100. It can be pricey compared to other sunflower farms but the benefit it can provide is more than enough reason to pay a visit.

At times, they sell sunflowers from P150-P200 depending on the variety.
For Pre-nup and Pre-debut photoshoots rate, you can directly contact them on their facebook page here.
The farm is open from 8am-7pm (Monday to Friday) and 7am-7pm (Saturday, Sunday and Holidays).

When It’s Okay Not To Follow Life’s Cliche

Posted on January 29, 2019August 18, 2019

Did you ever stopped and wondered where are you now at this point of your life? You’re on your mid 20s and starts to feel pressured of fixing yourself and to be sure of who you should become before turning the age of 30. You feel a bit scared of not getting a man or a woman who would take good care of you and will eventually be your lifetime partner. You get a little heart attack thinking that your savings account has 50% less compare to a friend that earns lesser than you. You became worried believing that your friend who travelled more places than you will be a more fulfilling person than you.

Whether you’re on 20s, 30s or 40s, stopped thinking that you need to get something at a certain age. You can get anything regardless of your age as long as you put your heart on it. You can run your own company as young as 20 or as old as 45. You can work 8 hours a day for 10 years and eventually find a passion for writing and become a successful book author at the age of 35. Who knows? We can do things regardless of the number.

We tend to look desperately for love nowadays and let pressure gets in. Some people might marry a person he met for 6 months at the age of 40 or some might known a sweetheart since age 5 and marry her at the age 20 and be equally happy. Don’t let pressure finds love. Love will always finds you regardless of the number.

Money should not resembles success. Yes, money would let you buy a lot of material things but it won’t buy some of life’s precious things. Who knows the reason behind your lesser bank money? You might be a breadwinner or you have to pay your sister’s tuition fee. There are people who supports her family and still manage to save but there are people who only supports themselves and still struggles financially. Be happy to have money earned through hard work, regardless of the number.

You travel for the sake of people knowing that you’ve been there. NO. You should travel for the sake of yourself without leaving your pocket empty. You go places to fulfill your desire and learn from the experiences that follows. You don’t have to be better compared to other people, you should only be better from the person you were from yesterday. You post photos out of your own happiness. A travel trips are life changing moments, regardless of the number of places you’ve been.

Let’s stop giving ourselves limits and realize that it is okay not to follow life’s cliche. We are the authors of our own book. We are the writer of each chapter. And each book has their own storyline. How would you write yours? It’s up to you.

Fantasy World: An Abandoned Theme Park In Lemery, Batangas

Posted on January 22, 2019February 1, 2020

I still remember me looking on the pages of my fairytale book and fascinates of becoming a princess that lives happily ever after. I think most of the children once dreamed of becoming a prince or princess that lives comfortably on a big castle. But no worries, you don’t need a passport, a visa or thousands worth of plane ticket, you can fulfill those childhood dreams by visiting Fantasy World in Lemery, Batangas! Though it is “abandoned”, the place is still dreamlike and it is just 3-4 hours away from Manila.

About Fantasy World

Fantasy World intended to be the Disneyland of the Philippines but due to the lack of funding of the Japanese owner, the medieval-themed park left unfinished up until today. It has four grand castle structure as main attraction that were meticulously designed just like those real century-old castles found in Europe as it attempted to be the grandest theme park of the country.

It enchantingly stands in the middle of hill-like Brgy. Mayasang, Lemery, Batangas along Diokno highway far from the town proper that made it more fascinating.

The first time I saw this enchanting place was when I used to watch the GMA TV show “Majika”. The place really caught my attention and I can’t actually believe that my country has its own fairylike park that I can only see before in the pages of my fairytale book and on TV documentaries that showcases medieval castles in Europe. And I promised myself that someday, I would stand there and be my own version of a travelling princess.

How to go to Fantasy World

Manila to Fantasy World

(Via Nasugbu)

Ride a bus bound to Nasugbu, Batangas and ask the conductor to drop you off on the ‘Boundary’ near the Nasugbu Arc then ride a Lemery bound jeepney that passes on the entrance of Fantasy World or simply chartered a tricycle that will take you directly to the Fantasy World but this could be pricey compared to riding a jeeney.

(Via Lemery)

You can directly ride a bus bound to Lemery from Manila (LRT- Buendia or Cubao) but this is a longer route compared to the Nasugbu route. Upon arriving in Lemery Bus Terminal, ride a tricycle to “Boundary” (take note that this is a different boundary from the Nasugbu Arc) and take a jeepney that passes Brgy. Mayasang and ask to be dropped in front of Fantasy World. You can also chartered a tricycle from the Lemery town proper but then again, it can be pricey.

Tagaytay to Fantasy World

From Tagaytay (Olivarez), you can ride a bus or jeepney bound to Nasugbu. Ask the driver to drop you off on the boundary near the Nasugbu Arc. Upon reaching the boundary, you can either ride a Lemery bound jeepney or chartered a tricycle that will take you directly to Fantasy World.

Fantasy World Entrance Fee

Most people is still not aware that this abandoned theme park is open to the public that’s why tourists will simply take photos from afar but actually this place happily accepts visitors who wants to see the beauty behind its unfinished structures. Rate will be P1000 maximum of 10 pax so whether you are 10 in the group or less than that, you still have to pay P1000.

If you will be coming on lesser group then it will be better to wait for other groups on the entrance of the park to lessen your expenses. The park is open from 8AM to 5PM.

Getting Around Fantasy World

By just standing inside and staring on the castle-like structures will already leave you in admiration. You will imagine yourself walking on your own fairytale story but unlike other abandoned theme parks, Fantasy World is now being maintained by the homeowners association.

Before coming to this place, I was too worried that the park might give me eerie feeling but it is the other way around. The place is smoothly beautiful and every corner is perfect for IG-worthy photos.

One castle that serves as the main tower has a cafeteria where you can order food and has stairs that leads to the rooftop. Here you can enjoy a 360-degree view from above. The second castle standing was designed to be the church.

The other two castles were merely castle structures that are perfect for photoshoots. Fantasy World is now perfect for prenup and debut pictorials.

Aside from its castle like structures, there are still rides installed on the area. Though, it is no longer operating you can still take photos on it.

Another main attraction of the Fantasy World is the two tree houses connected by a hanging bridge.

You will be seeing as well a beautiful fountain that is still operational perfect for a snapshot.

Other attraction is the Fantasy World maze, which is for me, is somewhat unfinished and no longer maintained. You can also rent fairytale costumes on the main tower near the cafeteria for P300 good for whole day.

Things to Know Before Going to Fantasy World

Bringing of foods are not allowed upon entering this park but there is a cafeteria inside if you wish to eat but food serving takes time.
There’s an additional P5000 fee if you wish to do photoshoots inside Fantasy World. This includes pre-wedding and pre-debut pictorials.
This can be a sidetrip of your tagaytay trip or you can go beach swimming in Nasugbu or Lemery after visiting Fantasy World depending on your time and choice.

Have you been to Fantasy World? Share your experience below!

La Union Travel Guide: How to Go and Places to Visit

Posted on January 17, 2019January 13, 2024

For the past years, La Union continuously rising as one of the must-visited province of Northern Luzon. I noticed that it is becoming popular to tourists especially to the young folks due to its beach-food-party scenes. Popularly called as “Elyu”, this province is popular for their waves good for surfing and will definitely give you a weekend worth spending.

So here is travel guide you can check and be ready for that Elyu vibe!

Knowing La Union:

La Union is a province of Ilocos Region and its capital city San Fernando serves as the Regional Center of the whole region. It has Ilocos Sur on the north, Pangasinan province on its south, Benguet on the east and West Philippines Sea on the west. It is now being tagged as the “Surfing Capital of the North”. It is said that the best time to go to La Union is from November to March.

How to go to La Union?

Tourists usually have their accommodation booked at San Fernando, which is the capital city, or San Juan where beach activities can be seen. So depending on your chosen hotel, you can drop off either to San Fernando or San Juan. However, if I will be asked, I preferred to have my stay booked in San Juan since this is where cheap hostels and chic food places can be found.

Manila to San Juan, La Union

You can ride a bus from Pasay or Cubao (Partas, Viron, Dominion) bound to San Juan, La Union. Fare may ranges from Php 500 to Php 650 depending on the bus type (deluxe, regular aircon bus etc.) that you will be taking and travel time may take 5-7 hours. Just ask the driver to just drop you off in San Juan Beach.

*Partas bus fare from Cubao to San Juan, La Union costs us Php 648 (As of November 2023)

Manila to San Fernando, La Union

Ride a bus from Pasay or Cubao (Partas, Viron, Dominion) bound to San Fernando, La Union. Fare my ranges from Php 500 to Php 650 depending on the bus (deluxe, regular aircon bus etc.) that you will be taking and travel time may take 5-7 hours. Once arrived in San Fernando, ride a jeepney or tricycle bound to San Juan and travel time may take another 20 minutes.

Bus Terminals and Contact Details:

Partas

Cubao, Bus Terminal
816 Aurora Boulevard, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines
Telephone Number:
+63 (2) 7278278

Pasay City, Bus Terminal
Aurora Boulevard (Tramo) Corner Edang St. San Roque,
Pasay City, Philippines
Telephone Number:
+63 (2) 8528194

Viron

Cubao, Bus Terminal
Quezon City, Philippines
Telephone Number:
+63 2 7410405

Dominion

Cubao, Bus Terminal Telephone Number:
(02) 727 2350

Places to visit in La Union:

Urbiztondo beach

La Union is famous for surfing and this is where the entire surfing thing happens. Surfing lesson will cost you P600 per hour (instructor fee + board rental).

Pebble Beach

La Union is well known as well for its pebble beaches. We ride a Luna bound jeepney and the driver dropped as on the Pebble Beach near Balay na Bato and it was crazy! I never thought how beautiful a real Pebble Beach could be. It looks like infinite numbers of smooth pebbles that varies in sizes and colors flocks the area. However, what bothered me is that there are many workers on the beach doing pebble picking for a living. It became a source of income on its townspeople but I would not be surprised if one day, the pebble beach will not be as amazing as it is today.

Kamay na Bato (Stone-hand gallery)

It is an art gallery highlighting different kinds of handcrafted stone arts by Mr. Kim.

Namacpacan Church

It is located in Luna town proper and declared as National Cultural Treasure.

Ma-Cho Temple

It is Taoist temple located in San Fernando dedicated to the sea goddess, Mazu.

Immuki Island

One of the newest attractions of the province of La Union tagged as the “Hidden Paradise of the North”. It is an island with crystal clear water lagoons surrounded by mangroves located in the town of Balaoan.

Other Tourist Spots To Visit:

Tangadan Falls (San Gabriel, La Union)
Grape Farm (Bauang, La Union)
Luna Watch Tower (Luna, La Union)

Where To Eat In La Union:

Onlypans Taqueria

Kabsat La Union

Tagpuan

Flotsam Jetsam

Beach Bum Food Park

Halo-Halo de Iloko

Dal-luyon Cafe

Bolinao Travel Guide 2019: Places To Visit + Sample Itinerary + Budget

Posted on January 8, 2019June 1, 2019

Bolinao is becoming known now by tourists who wants to relax for a while away in the busy city life. Located in the west coast of Luzon Island and northwestern tip of the Pangasinan province, this peaceful town has so much things to offer from white sand beaches to best-kept green waterfalls to enchanting hidden caves. For sure, it can be your next destination for your family and barkada getaway.

So here is a travel guide if you are planning to visit this majestic town!

How to go to Bolinao?

You can ride a bus from Cubao or Pasay (Victory Liner, Five Star, Dagupan Bus) bound to Bolinao, Pangasinan. Fare is P500 and travel time may take 6-7 hours.

See bus schedule of Victory Liner here

See bus schedule of Five Star here

How to get around Bolinao?

Tricycle drivers may ask you to pay P200-P300 for a one way trip from the town center to Patar where resorts, hotels and inns are located so it is advisable to hire a tricycle for your Bolinao Tour to lessen your expenses. One day tour would only cost you P1000 good for 3-4 pax.

Recommended Tour Guide/Tricycle Driver: Kuya Gerald/Eugene De Guzman 09104019061

Places to visit in Bolinao:

Cape Bolinao Lighthouse

It was constructed in the year 1905 and one of the well-known attraction nowadays in Pangasinan. Situated in Punta Piedra Point, it is one of the major lighthouses of our country and said to be the second tallest next to Cape Bojeador.

Entrance Fee: None

Bolinao Falls 1,2,3

Bolinao is famous for their emerald-green waterfalls and these three waterfalls were named based on numbering system due to their nearness to each other.

Bolinao Falls 1 is the highest, perfect for adventure seekers who wants to try waterfall diving but the pool area is much smaller compared to the other two waterfalls but the deepest.

Bolinao Falls 2 is perfect for kids due to the pool’s wide-open space that has many shallow areas. It is the shortest falls among the three but its wide-open space made it perfect for swimming.

Bolinao Falls 3, as suggested by our tour guide, is the most beautiful among the three. It has the combined characteristics of Bolinao Falls 1 and 2. Though it is not as high as Bolinao Falls 1, many people still preferred to do waterfall jumping here. Its pool space is the widest but deeper than Bolinao Falls 2. You wouldn’t take your eyes off on its green to turquoise water.

Entrance Fee: P20 per falls

Enchanted Cave

It is the most preferred cave to visit as suggested by our guide. Enchanted Cave Resort has various attractions but the main one is the cave itself. It is said that the resort was once part of the ocean making the place looks like a coral reef that emerge from the deep sea. Other popular caves are Wondeful Cave and Cindy’s Cave.

Entrance Fee: P150 for viewing and P200 for viewing + swimming

Patar White Beach

It is a public beach located next to the Bolinao Lighthouse. Since this is a public beach, no entrance fee is required but there are open cottages that you can rent. The sand is actually creamy white and the water is clear perfect for swimming.

Entrance Fee: None

Patar Rock Formation

This is my most favorite Bolinao destination and the place I really looked forward to see. Since we stayed in Rockview Beach Resort, we don’t need to pay any entrance fee. There are beautiful rock formations on the resort and due to its huge waves, swimming is not allowed for tourist’s safety but there are ropes that you can hold on if you wish to deep on its waters. It is popular for sunset viewing and it is no joke, it has one of the most beautiful sunset I’ve ever seen! It made me fell in love with sunsets even more.

St. James the Great Parish Church

It is constructed on 1600s and one of the oldest church in Pangasinan. It is still standing strong after surviving natural calamities such as the 1788 earthquake, 1819 fire and 2009 typhoon that damaged some of the church structures. It is still under ongoing various renovations.

Where we stayed in Bolinao?

We stayed in Rockview Sunset Beach Resort and the place is good, clean, and offers affordable room selection. Rooms are well maintained and resort personnels are kind and approachable. They let us do early check-in as early as 6am without additional fee.

Rate: P2500 (air-conditioned room for 4 pax with free breakfast)

You can contact them through their facebook page here

Sample Itinerary (2D1N)

(Day 1) Time	Activity
5:00 AM	ETA in Bolinao
5:10 AM	Breakfast in Adoras
5:30 AM	Tricycle ride to Patar
6:00 AM	Arrival at Hotel
6:40 AM	Start of Bolinao Tour
7:00 AM	ETA Cape Bolinao
8:30 AM	ETA Enchanted Cave
10:15 AM	Early Lunch at Mangunguna Restaurant (Since there is no food stalls in Bolinao Falls)
11:15 AM	ETD to Bolinao Falls
12 NN	ETA Bolinao Falls 1
12:30 PM	ETA Bolinao Falls 2
1:15 PM	ETA Bolinao Falls 3
2:00 PM	ETD to Patar Beach
3:00 PM	ETA Patar Beach
4:30 PM	ETA Hotel (freshen up)
5:30 PM	Sunset viewing in Rock Formation
7:00 PM	Dinner

(Day 2) Time	Activity
7:00 AM	Breakfast
8:00 AM	Swimming at Beach
10:00 AM	ETD to town center
10:40 AM	ETA St. James Church
11:30 AM	ETD to Manila

Breakdown Of Expenses (Good for 4)

Expenses	Fares/Fees
Fare Manila-Bolinao	P500
Breakfast at Adoras	P40
Tricycle rental	P250 (P1000/4)
Enchanted Cave Entrance Fee	P200
Lunch at Mangunguna	P170
Bolinao Falls 1,2,3 Entrance Fee	P60 (P20X3)
Parking Fee	P15 (20 on each falls) (60/4)
Accommodation	P625 (P2500/4)
Dinner	P60
Tricycle Fare to town center	P50 (P200/4)
Lunch at town center	P60
Fare to Manila-Bolinao	P500
Total	P2530

Treasure Mountain: Beauty Is Never Perfect In The First Place

Posted on January 3, 2019January 3, 2019

It was Saturday night and all the campers were hoping for a glimpse of Sea of Clouds by the next morning. Tents were spread all over the camping areas. The cold wind embraces you the whole night. Endless stories were told to kill the time and stars didn’t failed to look beautiful above.

6am and people started to have a good seat. Everyone makes sure that they’ll have a good view of the sunrise. Cameras were all ready and eyes were all tired but eagerly waiting. Everyone wait and wait and wait.. but no Sea of Clouds showed up. And there you go, hopes went to disappointments.

However, how a beautiful view can be a disappointment? It can only be, if we think it is. If we learn to appreciate the beauty within something like a rainbow after the rain, a lesson on every mistake, or a swan after being an ugly duckling then you’ll realized that beauty was never perfect in the very first place.

Learn to appreciate the things we can embrace right now because it might be the same things that we can’t on the next year, month or even a day from now. Go ahead and take adventures but don’t let disappointments ruin the happiness that you can get. The things we thought are disappointments are only those tiny beautiful things that were not appreciated.

Discovering Cebu’s Hidden Gem: Bojo River and Hermit’s Cove Day Tour

Posted on December 24, 2018June 1, 2019

Cebu is one of the most visited province of our country today because of its beautiful spots no one can resist. If someone will be asked “Where you want to go in Cebu?” he/she will most likely to answer to go whale shark watching in Oslob, do Canyoneering in Badian, experience Sardine Run in Moalboal or simply taste the famous Cebu Lechon in Carcar. These are the must things to do in Cebu and due to its popularity, tourists flock making the places too crowded.

Aside from this popular attractions, there’s still a lot of things Cebu has to offer. Two of these hidden gems can be found in Aloguinsan, located southwest of Cebu, the Bojo River and Hermit’s Cove. These hidden sanctuary is as beautiful as the other Cebu’s top destinations BUT with lesser people. So for those people who always wanted to take the road less travelled by then you will surely love this place.

How to get there?

You can ride a bus bound to Pinamungahan at Cebu South Terminal. First trip is 5am and just asked the driver to drop you on Aloguinsan. Travel time is 2 hours. Once arrived in Aloguinsan, there are habal-habal that you can ride going to Bojo River and Hermit’s Cove
Another option is to ride a bus or Vhire bound to Toledo, travel time is 1 to 1.5 hours. Upon reaching the Toledo Terminal, ride a jeepney en route to Aloguinsan that may take another 30 minutes

Bojo River

Bojo River cruise is an eco-tourism activity and the premier attraction of Aloguinsan. It is more than just a tourist attraction. From the collaborative effort of the local government and its people, they came up with this eco-tourism campaign that provides additional and alternative source of income to its townpeople. Fishermen served as tour guides and most women are designated on reception service and food or souvenir making.

With the P400 per head fee, you will be experiencing the one-hour boat ride (they will allow you to borrow a Filipino native hat to wear) while a local fisherman explains the plants and animals that can be seen on the river. They are very knowledgeable of the river’s ecosystem, explaining different kinds of mangroves, tells local folklore and promotes care for the environment.

Contrast to other exhilirating Cebu destinations, Bojo River will embrace you with serenity and calmness while being mesmerized by the view it has to offer. Rock formations found on the river are being compared to those found in Palawan.

Upon reaching the mouth of the river where the river meets the sea, the guide will tour you briefly on the open sea and shows different kinds of corals that can be clearly seen due to the clarity of the sea water. The guide will let you swim for some time on the river’s mouth and they will gladly help you take pictures.

Hermit’s Cove

The same habal-habal driver picked us up on Bojo River after 1.5 hours and serviced us going to Hermit’s Cove. You will be passing through rough roads so better be careful. Upon reaching Hermit’s Cove located in Brgy. Kantobogon in Aloguinsan, we were greeted by the resort personnels who are from the local government unit on their baro’t saya uniforms. Entrance fee is P100 which includes the use of their tables or open cottages. They are too friendly and got surprised that we came too far just to visit their humble town. Before going down the staircase that leads to the shores of the hidden beach, the resort personnel will tell a brief history of the beach and discuss the Do’s and Dont’s. The beach was named after an old hermit that once lived on this place. Overnight stay is not allowed on this place.

Hermit’s Cove is a sheltered beach waiting to be appreciated. It has clear waters, white sands and though it is no longer a secret beach, the people is still lesser compared to those most-hyped Cebu beaches. On our case, there are only around 25 people on the area so you can really enjoy its waters and reconnect with nature.

How to get back to Cebu City?

You have to ride a habal-habal back to the town center of Aloguinsan and ride a bus bound to Cebu City. Last trip is 4pm
(Since it’s almost 4pm when we left Hermit’s Cove the drivers suggest us to take the Mantalongon route) Ride a habal-habal bound to Mantalongon and wait for a bus bound to Cebu City

What To Do In Iloilo, Philippines: Things To Do And Places To Visit

Posted on December 18, 2018June 1, 2019

Iloilo may still not be as known as Cebu or Palawan but it is a place that will excite and leave you in awe because of its uniqueness. Dubbed as the “City of Love” situated in the Panay Island and serves as a passageway to nearby provinces such as Guimaras, Antique and Capiz.

I am not saying this because it is my hometown but I know it has something any tourist would love to see and feel. It is a place where old times meet the modern era much like having a country side feeling meeting the busy metropolitan life.

So here are the list of the things to do when you’re in Iloilo:

Tour Iloilo Downtown

It is one of my favorite spot in Iloilo becuse it gives so much idea of our beloved heritage. This is where you can see century old commercial establishments that has been beautifully restored. One of this old commercial building is Calle Real which serves as the central attraction of the downtown.

Have a taste of the authentic Lapaz Batchoy

Lapaz Batchoy is a dish originated in Iloilo that serves as a signature dish of Ilonggos. Honestly, I never tasted a good Lapaz Batchoy unless it is in Iloilo. Once you tasted the authentic Iloilo Lapaz Batchoy, you will always know the difference.

Ted’s Old Timers Lapaz Batchoy, Deco’s and Netong’s Lapaz Batchoy in Lapaz Market are among the famous food places that offers this signature dish. You can see a lot of branches of Ted’s and Deco’s in Iloilo so it will not be hard for you to get the chance tasting this good food.

Visit Old Churches and Mansions

Iloilo is a good place for church hopping since there are many beautiful churches within its vicinity. You can always start with Jaro Cathedral which is the home of “The Lady of Candles” encased on a glass and said to be continuously growing.

Other must visit churches are Molo Church, Sta. Barbara Church that was declared by NHCP as National Landmark and Miagao Chruch that was part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

Iloilo has a lot of ancient mansions as well owned by prominent families of the province long time back. Nelly’s Garden, Casa Mariquit, Lizares Mansion and Molo Mansion are some of the City’s treasured mansions.

Have a Glimpse of Europe

With the fast growing pace of Iloilo City, there’s a lot of ongoing constructions of establishments and business parks. Striking buildings found in Europe inspire some of its new establishments. You can visit Plazuela De Iloilo that has been considered as one of the favorite recreation spot of Ilonggos. Walking on the area will make you feel walking on the streets of Spain. You can find restaurants, shops and night markets during holidays.

Another place to visit in Iloilo is Festive Walk. It has European inspired buildings painted with pastel colors making you feel walking again on a foreign land. It offers a line of restaurants to choose from and becomes more beautiful at night. It turned to be a busy food park with live band at night. Who does not want to have a good food with fresh air backed with a live band? It is really a good place for chill out nights!

Experience Iloilo night out

If partying and chilling is your thing, Smallville Complex located in Iloilo Diversion Road is the perfect place for you. Others might think that partying and bar hopping is happening only on big cities such as Manila and Cebu but Iloilo have it as well. Smallville Complex serves as the heart of the night out life in the province where bars and restobars flock on the area.

Go North and Visit Beautiful Islands and Beaches

As per locals, the most picture perfect beaches can be found in Carles, Concepcion and Ajuy. Most famous of it as of now is Isla de Gigantes in Carles that offers white sands and rock formations that can be compared on those found in Palawan. Other popular beaches are Balubadingan Island in Concepcion, Sicogon Island in Carles and Marbuena Island in Ajuy.

Join Dinagyang Festival

Dinagyang Festival is an annual cultural event held in Iloilo City every fourth weekend of January. It is a thanksgiving festival in honor of Señor Santo Niño. This highlights the rich culture, history and talent of Ilonggos where exciting activities are being organized.

Most of the streets on the downtown area are close to give way to the parade of the competing tribes. Since roads are close on most areas, people have to walk while enjoying the celebrations. Come to create your own festival story, dance with the beating of the drums, take pictures with the Ati warriors, eat delicious dishes on food stalls and meet friendly Ilonggos. Join and make your own Dinagyang story.

These are some of the things I recommend you to do in Iloilo but there are still a lot of stuffs to do once you got there. You can simply ask the locals for any possible spot you can go. Illongos won’t hesitate to help you. They’re the most loving persons I’ve known. It won’t be called “City of Love” for no reason.

What is you favorite travel experience in Iloilo? Share your thoughts below!

Dingalan Travel Guide: What to do and What to expect in Dingalan, Aurora

Posted on December 14, 2018June 1, 2019

After I graduated college, It’s been my yearly tradition to treat myself with a travel trip during my birthday. I always think that a gift of a travel experience is more worth it than buying myself a material gift or treating myself on a fancy restaurant.

So for this year’s celebration of my another year of existence, I decided to explore the hidden beauty of Dingalan, Aurora!

Dingalan, Aurora:

Dingalan is one of the most scenic place I’ve ever been in the Philippines. It is often tagged as the “Batanes of the East” because of its views and hill-like scenery that resembles those found in more famous location, Batanes. But this silent town of Aurora has its own beauty waiting to be discovered.

It is a perfect place to fill in your adventurous heart. From trekking the high mountains, to discovering the hidden caves, to chasing waterfalls or to simply swimming on its blue waters and playing with its waves, I can say that this is worth the visit.

Located on the southernmost part of the Aurora Province, facing the Philippine Sea on the east, has a montainous landscapes because of the Sierra Madre Mountains and has big waves flashing on the scenic cliffside where the green grass meets the blue waters. What a must view to catch!

Going to Dingalan:

From Manila:

There are bus terminals that offers a ride to Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija from Cubao, Pasay or Caloocan. Fare is P185 and ride may took 2 hours.

Upon arriving in Cabanatuan City Transport Terminal, catch a van going to Dingalan, Aurora. Vans are parked near 7/11 and fare is P120. It may take another 2 hour ride.

Getting Around Dingalan:

To go places in Dingalan, you can ride a tricycle and fare may be around P20 depending where you are heading to. There’s a lot of tourist attractions to visit but for this trip we only decided to go on its iconic spots, the Dingalan View Deck and Dingalan Lighthouse. As much as we wanted to go on other tourist spots, we are already tired from our Baler trip prior going to Dingalan.

Start of our journey:

Upon arriving on Dingalan Transport Terminal, we ride a tricycle going to the Feeder Port located in Brgy. Paltic (fare is P20). Feeder port is the starting point of your Dingalan Tour. From here, you need to register and pay for the Environmental Fee of P50. A tour guide is required to go on any desired Dingalan destination. No worries, it won’t be hard for you to look for a registered tour guide since they flock on the port area with their uniform and IDs. Tour guide rate is P200 per location. If you wish to eat first before starting your Dingalan activities, there are few food stalls or “karinderya” on the Feeder Port area that offers food for cheap prices.

Going to the White Beach:

White Beach is the drop off point to Dingalan View Deck and Lighthouse. You have two choices going to the White Beach from the Feeder Port. First, you can rent a boat for P800 good for 10 persons or second, you can trek from the Feeder Port to White Beach for 30-40 minutes. On our case, we decided to take the second option.

We started our trek at 6:30am. Trekking might be easy but tricky at times. You have to walk on the sea shores with big rocks while big waves are coming your way. At times, we have to wait for the waves to calm down before crossing the big rocks and do it as fast as possible before catching the next big wave.

The tour guide will require you an additional P200 if you choose to trek instead of renting boat. Upon arriving on White Beach, there are open cottages available where you can rest for some time before trekking the mountain.

Going to Dingalan View Deck:

Trekking from the White Beach going to Dingalan View Deck may take arond 30 minutes. Most part of the way to the top is covered with trees so trekking is a bit easy but still tiring at times. The path is well guided, there are posts and ropes that you can rely on.

Upon reaching the top you will be fascinated with the beauty that you will be seeing. It’s much like looking on a masterpiece of an artist on a painted canvass. The view is really jaw-dropping that won’t stop you from staring and taking pictures.

Going to the Lighthouse:

After you’re done with the View Deck, you have to trek down for 30 minutes. Once reached the jump off point on the White Beach area you have to climb again on the other side for another 30 minutes to reach the lighthouse. Unlike the path on the View Deck, there’s no shade or trees on your way but instead, you will be seeing tall grasses along the way.

Upon reaching the top, another beauty awaits you. It’s windy on the lighthouse area compared on the View Deck which will be a good place to relax and scream your heart out. I actually enjoyed lying on the grass and feel the fresh air coming.

Note: Climbing the lighthouse itself is prohibited

Going back to the Feeder Port:

Once you are done with the trekking, it’s up to you if you want to stay on the White Beach for swimming or head to other Dingalan spots. On our case, since we only decided to visit the lighthouse and view deck we decided to head back to the Feeder Port.

You can trek back to the port for another 30-40 minutes but since we are a bit tired of all the trekking we’ve done we chose to rent a boat for a cheaper price of P400. (You will only pay half the boat rental fee if you will be coming from the White Beach)

Going Back to Manila:

You have to ride a tricycle from Feeder Port back to the transport terminal and ride a van going to Cabanatuan. By this time, the travel time to Cabanatuan only took 1 and a half hour. It’s much faster than our travel time from Cabanatual to Dingalan.

On Cabanatuan Terminal, we looked and ride a bus back to Cubao for P185.

Other Tourist Spots you can visit in Dingalan:

Tanawan Falls
Lamao Caves
Matawe Beach
Laktas Falls

Breakdown of Expenses (for 2 pax):

Expenses	Fares/Fees
Fare from Cubao to Cabanatuan	P185
Fare from Cabanatuan to Dingalan	P120
Tricycle fare to Feeder Port	P20
Environmental Fee	P50
Tour Guide Fee (2 locations and additional fee for trekking)	P300(P600/2)
Food	P45
Tricycle fare to Dingalan Terminal	P20
Fare from Dingalan to Cabanatuan	P120
Fare from Cabanatuan to Cubao	P185
Boat Rental	P200(P400/2)
Total	P1245

Expenses will be cheaper if you will be coming on big groups