Weekend date? Try Cafe 1228

Cafe 1228 Dinner Buffet

This is a late-post for our valentine and pre 5th anniversary. I just felt I am still burning these! But, it was worth it.

Cafe 1228 is located at the Ground Floor of New World Hotel Makati
Buffet rates at 2000 net

Celebrating Corregidor

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Corregidor Photo by Jz Rojo

I have always been curious to seeing Corregidor to the point that it has reached my 30 before 30 list.  :P

It was probably caused by a change of plan of our junior high field trip which was supposedly a trip to the island. As a child, my mom would tell me that my maternal granddad fought against the Japanese and Corregidor was one of the places where they was sent for battle. Hence, my curiosity of this island.

Finally, I did not have to wait for my 29^th year to go to this island :P I chanced upon a Deal Grocer voucher for a Sun Cruises tour for only around 1500php. I bought two tickets for me and Jz as a post Valentine date <3 In return, he treated me for an overnight stay in Midas Hotel in time for our trip so that we would not have to wake up THAT early for the trip :D

Battery Way

Travel Thoughts:

- Check www.corregidorphilippines.com for more details on the island tour offered by Sun Cruises
- Optional Malinta Tunnel Light and Sound tour is also available at  150 php per pax.
- The ferry leaves at exactly 8am. Tourists should be at the port 30mins before.

Inside Malinta Tunnel


 

Dazzling Davao

It is my first time to go to Mindanao and we chose to go to one of the Most Progressive cities in the Philippines - Davao City! The Waterfront Insular Hotel became our home for the weekend.

Morning view from our room

Waterfront Lobby at Night with Christmas Decors

Waterfront Deluxe Room

 We immediately noticed the clean streets even the clean markets around the city. And when we say progressive, Davao really is! Aside from having an Ayala Mall - Abreeza and a huge SM Mall - SM Lanang which has an IMAX and is said to be the second largest SM mall next to Mall of Asia,  there are a lot of establishments and hang-out places around the city.

 Since we just wanted a quick chill getaway, we only opted for a city tour. As first stop, we went to Eden Park where we strolled around the hectares of nature lover's haven. We also visited their fishing village and got the chance to tick off our 2012 list of catching a fish and have it cooked.

Have your fish and eat it too :D

Eden Park Entrance

Eden Park - Nature Lover's Haven

  We also had lunch at Jack's Ridge which offers a breathtaking view of Davao City. Food is a bit pricey considering it is already a must for any tourist to drop by the place. But, the food we tried is delicious and worth the price.

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View from Jack's Ridge - Karlo's Gourmet and Coffee

  We had the chance to visit the Japanese tunnel which is very significant for Jz because it was in Davao where his grandfather was harmed by the Japanese during the Japanese war. Entering the tunnel gives you that goosebump-y feeling but knowing the stories while seeing the preserved part of the tunnel is a cool experience. The tunnel was unexpectedly discovered during the1960s when the National Highway of Davao was being built.

Davao's Japanse Tunnel

Travel Thoughts:

- The city governance is strict on implementation. Thus, you will inevitably notice the high police visibility in the area. As a tourist, one must be aware that  "No Smoking" zones in public places/jeepneys are strictly implemented. There are only designated smoking areas.

- Another tourist must-know: Alcoholic beverages are only served until 1am and bars/clubs operate only until 2am. This is strictly implemented as well.

-  Interesting Trivia: Mt Apo is very visible in the city especially if one is headed to Eden Park. However, the highest peak in the country is not really located in Davao exactly but in Cotabato. Most climbers are from Davao though. And the most scenic view is seen in Davao. Our tourist guide also shared that most  mountaineers flock Mt Apo during Holy Week.

- If you happen to stay in Waterfront Hotel, their Caesar Salad is the bomb! You can order for additional or less parmesan and other toppings when you order and their veggies are soo crunchy.

- The best Durians are the ones being sold accros Chinatown entrance. Another interesting fact is that the Chinatown in Davao is one of the largest in a foreign Asian country.

Davao's Chinatown at Night

Buffet at Bag of Beans

We have been craving to try the famous buffet at Bag of Beans . Then, last Sunday we had to buy some organic stuff from Ilog Maria which gave us a chance to have our lunch in one of our most favorite restaurants/food establishments in Tagaytay.

What's good about the buffet is that it has variety of choices - even for healthy eaters. Since its lent, I do not eat pork and beef for this year's season so I was glad that I still enjoyed their veggie spring rolls dipped in vinegar, fish tempura, and Filipino-style Fried Chicken. My two dates - Jz and Dad , enjoyed their choices too. They have different kinds of pasta, salads, and soup. And of course we we enjoyed the pastries and desserts!

Sweet Exclamation Points! Mango Crepe, Chocolate Mousse, Apple Tart

Food Thoughts:

Buffet Policy

- Breakfast Buffet is only prices at 320 php + 10% service charge
- Brunch Buffet is priced at 400 php + 10% service charge
- And a timely treat to beat the summer heat? Try their make-your-own halo halo for dessert
- Bag of Beans is located at 115 Aguinaldo Highway, Mendez Crossing West, Tagaytay

Survived Sagada :P

Photo by Mel Elgincolin

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Brgy Aguod, Sagada

I am not the adventurous type..comparing myself to my more audacious friends. But, I have always wanted to go to Sagada which is known for more daring activities like trekking, hiking, and spelunking. Knowing that my parents already went there and my dad just loved the experience, I was all the more curious of what is behind that 'long drive form Manila' and the place behind the mountains and valleys.

We kicked off summer 2012 with the planned trip to Mountain Province. Armed with reminders such as Sagadanians are conservative and weather is cold but Mr. Sun is always present., we packed our bags together with our a bit of conventional but comfy clothes, sunblock, trekking footwear etc. 

We took the Omahayami bus to Banawe which is full of foreigners - Koreans, Americans, Europeans. It took us 9 hours to get to the Rice Terraces town of Ifugao. It was my first time. The group had breakfast at Las Vegas Restaurant, which I think is popular hearing it from the foreign guests. We got introduced to our guide slash driver who will accompany us to our 3 hour drive to Sagada.

The Banawe Rice Terraces (Batad)

Along the way, we were able to pass by the famous Banawe Rice Terraces. I was just amazed seeing it upclose.The people of Ifugao are very friendly which is very evident among the elders who welcomed us in the Terraces viewpoint, who also cheerfully posed with us for a photo op.

Upon, reaching Mt. Province, there are more rice terraces shown to us who are also lovely. One is the Bay-ay Rice Terraces.

Bay-ay Rice Terraces, Mt. Province

After the three hour zigzag and thrilling ride (due to narrow roads), we finally reached the town of Sagada. We checked in at George Guest House and registered first at the municipal hall. We decided to proceed with the activity of the day : trek to Bomod-ok falls. 

The trek was a challenge for a sleepless person like me during that time. But I can say, it is one fulfilling experience even if it is something that I do not usually do. Getting to know the way of life of the people in Brgy. Banga-an, where the trek route is, is just worth it. The breathtaking view of mountains and fields also became my source of energy to finish a total of 3 hours of trekking route (going to and from the falls). Thanks to our guide Ate Gloria (fondly called as Ate GMA haha), a membet of NORSIGA,  for being patient in guiding us and in explaining their culture for us to appreciate.

The following day was spent on going to Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins. 

My friends also enjoyed their spelunking activity, which I did not join :P But was able to capture some of their  moments in the cave.

Cave Connection - M. Solas cam :) 

How can I forget the food trip? 

Living may be simple in Sagada, but one will not forget the abundance of food. :) I loved our break fast at Salt and Pepper and my fresh yogurt at Yoghurt House.

Travel Thoughts:

- Ohayami Bus fare 450 php (one way) 

- From Sagada, we took the Sagada-Baguio-Manila route. Be prepared of the 6 hour Sagada-Baguio route as it is about the countless zigzag roads and a 'fresh air' bus. But, the view and the experience are the things that will make it memorable. I am sure the foreign tourists would agree too :) 

- Orange is a famous product of Sagada: most pastries for pasalubong have its orange flave.

- George guest house is already one of the most modern and cozy place to stay in Sagada. Note that unlike Banawem most accommodations are in forms of guest houses or inns only. George Guest House has that colorful exterior and interior designs which has wi-fi as additional service.

We paid roughly 1k per room a night.

George Guest House Sala (3rd F) 

Plan the VL Days Ahead & Lets Travel! :D

2012 Philippine Holidays (something I got from research as part of my job haha! ). Note that this is the latest announced list of holidays Hope there will be more announced! :P More holidays..more chances to travel :)

New Year's Day	January 1 (Sunday)
Chinese New Year	January 23 (Monday)
Maundy Thursday	April 5 (Thursday)
Good Friday	April 6 (Thursday)
Araw ng Kagitingan	April 9 (Monday)
Labor Day	May 1 (Tuesday)
Independence Day	June 12 (Tuesday)
Ninoy Aquino Day	August 21 (Tuesday)
National Heroes Day	August 27 (Last Monday of August)
All Saints Day	November 1 (Thursday)
All Souls Day	November 2 (Friday)
Bonifacio Day	November 30 (Friday)
Christmas Day	December 25 (Tuesday)
Rizal Day	December 30 (Sunday)
New Years Eve	December 31 (Monday)

Italicized font are special holidays :)

Travel Thoughts :

For travel planning..
- long Easter Weekend! <3
- hope the First November Long Weekend will remain :P

Kalibo in a Day

Since I will submit an article for an in-flight magazine on Kalibo, I decided to blog it as well. Kalibo is famous for Ati-atihan festival. Foreign and local tourists flock to Aklan to feast with the locals. It is also famous for being a 'connecting' destination to the world famous island of Boracay. One trip to the island, made us decide to explore Kalibo in a day for a change.

We decided to stay at the home of the famous Precious Moments dolls and keepsakes - Sampaguita Gardens. It is located in New Washington, Aklan and is only 20 minutes away from the airport. Rates start from !,900 php.

Though Christmas is near when we went for a visit, we were told that even it is not the season, the place still gives the Christmas-y feel.

Other must-trys of Kalibo is having mango shake in Miggy's place. If you are heading to Manila for a Bora trip or waiting for a 'sundo' after a flight to Kalibo, this restaurant is a good food stop. Their spaghetti and local viands are also fave hits.

Travel Thoughts:

- People who forgot to buy some of their 'pasalubongs' in Boracay and will flyt to Manila via Kalibo, there are  pasalubong shops in the airport where one can buy Aklan's famous alimango (crabs) and pastries

- Sampaguita Gardens support some Aklan-based foundations, buying their souvenirs would help these charities.

Bohol-ific Long Weekend

Chocolate Hills!

We planned our trip to Bohol before the announcement of the August long weekend. But, we just initially booked a plane ticket and almost forgot to reserve a place. Just as we thought, almost all the resorts, hotels, and even rooms for rent are fully booked. Good thing the receptionist from Cherry Homes resort thought that we already reserved a room when we just inqiured :P So, I just had to pay the confirmation deposit.

San Pedro Church along Loboc River

The place was clean and just walking distance from the beach front. It has a pool and jacuzzi which operates from 8am to 10pm. They also offer an airport to hotel service and vice-versa. We also decided to coordinate with their receptionist to get a package tour. Given that we just have 3 days and two nights to enjoy Bohol, we just chose two types of tours: the Panglao Island tour and the Country side tour

San Agustin Cathedral

Panglao Island Tour:

The tour guide slash driver brought us to the Baroque churches in Panglao. The tour also covers a visit to the famous Hinagdanan cave wherein tour guides are 'hyper' in a 'kalog'-funny type of way. But, I must say the cave guides are used to serving foreign clients as I was impressed with how they speak and relate to guests, even if at times done jokingly. :P We also had the chance to visit the Nova Shell Museum where in the  "shell expert" is very knowledgeable on the economic worth of shells :) I personally enjoyed the Bohol Bee farm as it offers everything in organic style which reminds me of Tagaytay's Ilog Maria. It is just that the bee farm is larger and even has a resort and a restaurant.

Blood Compact Site

Country-side Tour

Second day made us experience the tour that brought the things we just read in books to life. It offered both scenery and history as we went to the famous Blood Compact site and Baclayon church. We had our lunch - buffet style (500php with entrance fee included). This is while we cruise the romantic Loboc river. Tourists can choose one of the cruise boats offering buffet meals and the schedule they are most comfortable with. We chose the Loboc Village boat ride. Initially, guests are a bit annoyed due to the long waiting time. Apparently, some arrangements confused guests due to the unexpected volume of guests by the crew. Nonetheless, I was able to enjoy the premium option of the boat ride because of the luscious view of  greens and calming river cruise. Never mind the lack in the variety of food as i was able to enjoy their Mais con Hielo and Fresh Fruit Selection. Plus, the premium boat ride option gives guests more space as less guests are allowed to the boat compared to the others.

In the afternoon, we were able to see the smallest mammal.. the cute tarsier! Glad to know that there are people who care for these species which are considered endangered. Visiting guests should keep in mind that following the rules in the conversation area would help improve the conservation of these animals. Aside from the tarsier, the province is famous for.. Chocolate Hills. The lovely topographical gift of the province is such a hit to domestic and foreign  guests. As our Social Studies books would say, the hills really change colors on an enchanting way of nature. The tour guide also brought us to the Hanging Bridge in Loboc and Bilar Butterfly Garden for some photo ops and tour. He was also kind to let us drop by the Shiphaus (20 pesos entrance fee) which offers a feel of a ship inside a house.

Bohol Bee Farm's Honey-made Organic Ice Cream (Php 30)

We are considered blessed to have this trip push through and the province's tourism did not affect Panglao and nearby towns. We are blessed to have this Bohol-ific weekend as we discovered the variety of things to do and see in  the province. Danao and other parts of Bohol should be visited next! :)

Travel Thoughts:
- Cebu Pacific flies to Tagbilaran twice a day
- Alternative route to Bohol is via Cebu City. Then, fast craft trip to Tagbilaran port
- Panglao Island is connected through a bridge to the main island of Bohol
- Cherry's Homes Too Inland Resort (one of three cherry homes resorts in Panglao) offers room accommodations for as low as 1.3k php to 3k plus php depending on the features of the room and the number of people with free breakfast. Contact: cherryshome.com
- Panglao Island Tour costs: 1,500 php for a car service and tour guide (good for 1 to 4 pax)
- Country side Tour costs: 2,000php
- Note that tour guide costs do not include entrance fees
- For affordable ihaw-ihaw along the beach front, try Long Horizon's restaurant
- Alona Hidden Dream Grill is more pricey but has generous servings for some of the viands offered

Loboc River

Cebu: the Island and City Living

The Cebu gang took a past-four-in -the -morning - PAL flight. We planned to visit two different places in Cebu province: Bantayan Island and Cebu City. It was almost six a.m when we got our luggages in the conveyor and headed to the taxi queue. We asked the cab drivers to bring us to the Ceres bus station, so that we could commute to Hagnaya Port. Ironically, when we reached the terminal, we just decided to take the shuttle vans offering faster rides to Hagnaya Port(with pick-your-own-schedule edge) due to shorter stopover.

Municipality of Sta Fe

Upon reaching Hagnaya Port, we took the earliest schedule to catch which is around 9:30am. After a two-hour calm ferry ride, we finally reached one of Cebu's picturesque islands - Bantayan! We checked-in at Santa Fe Beach Resort. After some rest, we just spent beach-bumming the entire day. There's nothing like exchanging stories by the beach and relaxing under the bright sparkly night sky. 

The next morning, some of us decided to go to Santa Fe Beach Club (our accommodation's sister resort), where Ogtong Cave is located. Our eyes were just mesmerized by the breathtaking view the beach club gave us. We spent a few hours doing the usual photo ops and enjoying the view that only God-created scenery could offer. 

Before heading back to the resort, we passed by the public market to buy some 'pasalubongs'. Since we could not contain our cravings, we dropped by a small decent eatery to taste Cebuano viands. We were more than satisfied with the taste of cold-cuts and dried fish - Cebuano style.

We also passed by the island's town plaza. Baroque churches influenced by European architecture stands out in the quaint town. We just hung out at the park after offering s simple prayer at the church. This gave us a clearer picture on the lifestyle of the people living in the island.

Upon arriving at our resort, stories were shared by some who opted to stayed as they had their own stories on how they understood the island's way of living more - simple and laid-back. This is through the semi-fishing villages near the resort and the kids that play along the shoreline. We also catched the amazing sunset view opposing the island. We made our last sunset in the island for the trip as worth it as possible since we are headed back to the city the next morning

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Cebu city gives me a feeling of being in another country. Not sure exactly why. The nearest rationale I could think of is because it seems that the progressive city is similar to Manila but also different in a lot of ways (dialect, landmarks, way of living etc). It also gave us the opportunity to recall those things written in history books at school upon seeing Magellan's Cross, Basilica de Sto Nino. Fuerza de San Pedro,Casa Gorordo,Plaza La Independencia, and Lapu Lapu Shrine. 

There are also a lot of things to try and a lot of food to eat in Cebu. We have tried the famous CNT Lechon. One dinner spent in the city was also spent to taste the famous Pochero in Abuhan Dos which happens to be near one famous nightspot. This nightspot pertains to Club Ultima which is also famous for Skywalk and Edge Coaster Rides. The Skywalk is waking on a glass floor in one of the building's high peaks. However, this is only offered during the day. Since it was already evening when we dropped by, we tried the eliptic-edgy ride: the Edge Coaster. Also, we did not miss the night life in Uptown Cebu, where the I.T/BPO  Park and Ayala Mall is located.

Travel Thoughts:

would just like to share that....

- Trip to Hagnaya Port is 3 hours from Cebu City and trip from Hagnaya to Bantayan is 2 hours.

- Shuttle fare is 3k per van

- CNT Lechon is famous for its delicious lechon (even without sauce). This is located across SM City Cebu

- Club Ultima is located at the Crowne Regency Cebu which is walking distance to the restaurant that offers huge and yummy pochero - Abuhan Dos

Fairways and Bluewater: Hideaway in Boracay

Whenever I go to the paradise island of Boracay, it is a luxurious experience to have an atmosepherethat is still laid back, in contrast with the party vibe of the island. One that would best fit this experience is at Fairways and Bluewater.

Reasons why I love the place? Welcome Drinks + Welcome Center  + Private Villas +Private Beach + Spa + Affordable and uber relaxing massage service + spaceous rooms + shuttle service + butterfly garden + golf + caves + hospitable staff.. and more!  ) 

PM me to know more of the lovely place and can give you feedback on rates and amenities! :) Gladly posted the lovely pictures of boracay and the resort <3

photos by Mel Elgincolin, Lana Balite, Jake Garcia