blissfulguro

should I stay or should I go?

Yes I did it. I just did solo traveling! For the very first time I did a solo travel (read: solo/alone/me, myself and moi). From planning to executing, I did everything - ALONE.

Solo traveling is not my cup of tea. It's not that I don't want to do it, it's just that I never had the chance to do it. But technically, I did a "solo travel" before. It was nine years ago, fresh out from almost 15 years of primary, secondary and university education. A college friend, whose roots are from Palawan, invited me to visit her hometown in Puerto Princesa. The thing is, she was already there and I need to go there alone - via Super Ferry. And so I did. I went there alone and succumbed the 22-hour boat ride - alone. A nineteen year-old chick was alone for the first time. I dunno how I made my parents approved of it but they allowed me and even financially sustained the whole 2-week trip.

That was it. The longest time I was alone with myself.

Yes I did it. I just did solo traveling! For the very first time I did a solo travel (read: solo/alone/me, myself and moi). From planning to executing , I did everything - ALONE.

Others may see it as a very casual thing. Nothing serious. And did it more than a hundred times in their lives. But lemme tell you this - you were once a solo travel-virgin right?

One big problem I have with solo traveling is having to deal with myself for the duration of the trip. I dunno if it's weird but I have this battle with myself. And I am afraid that if something bad happened during the trip, I would be mad at me. If you know what I mean.

One more thing is that I love to talk. If you pretty much know me (personally), I am the most talkative person and the loudest. I have an inborn hearing-defect. I can't hear very well and as a result, I speak louder than "normal" people would do. I can't even whisper because other people would definitely hear it. And as I grow up, I was usually a "talker" and not a "listener" (because honestly I can't hear you if you have the softest voice on earth). To make my point, I am an extrovert not an introvert. I love to talk and talk and talk some more (that people oftenly mistaken it for being pabida - I am the most misjudged person - paawa effect). Who would listen to me if I am alone?

And lastly, I find it more expensive to travel alone than in a group where you can divide the costs making it cheaper.

Yes I did it. I just did solo traveling! For the very first time I did a solo travel (read: solo/alone/me, myself and moi). From planning to executing , I did everything - ALONE.

It was not my intention nor did I make a conscious effort to travel solo. It just happened and I am glad I just did.

It was the 4-day long weekend/vacation and the perfect time to go out on a holiday (also the most perfect weather). A week before that, I started to research about some possible places to go to. I can only do a land trip so I trimmed my list down to three possible destinations that I've never been to; somewhere in the C.A.R. (Cordillera Autonomous Region), MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) and the Bicol/Albay Region. So I texted some of my friends about the plan and they were either sick or busy. And so I texted other friends (I really don't have that much). And lastly, the boyfriend. But none of them replied the way I wanted them to. They were just so busy. And then it just hit me that hey, I can do this on my own. And then I realized that it's easier said than done.

So a day before the trip, I researched and planned for some info about the place I was eyeing. It was really difficult - emotionally. One minute I was too excited and the next I was worried if this would turn out well.

Friday. The "planned" day for me to leave. I leave work everyday at 12 noon. When I went home, I opened my closet and just stood there figuring out if I should carry on with the plan. Should I do this? And then a heavy sigh. Bahala na si Batman at si Buddha.

So there I was, at the bus terminal. It was 6:00 p.m. and all I could think of was going home and quit instead. But my inner self was shouting and cursing me at the same time. It was like a battle and a debate in one's self. It's not an easy thing. Trying to convince myself that it will be fine was harder than actually experiencing "it".

Yes I did it. I just did solo traveling! For the very first time I did a solo travel (read: solo/alone/me, myself and moi). From planning to executing , I did everything - ALONE.

I came out alive and perfectly fine. I can still feel the excitement from what I've experienced. It was a sweet 4-day retreat. I survived being alone (not necessarily lonely), spent time with the locals, almost finished a book, stayed at three different resorts/inns, and experienced everything in a new perspective. It was really fun. I didn't expect this thing to have a big impact in me.

Bottom line: Fear of the unknown. I never knew what to expect. I've never been in that situation so I wouldn't know how to deal with it. No one to talk to. No one to bully. Nobody to look after my stuff when I need to do number 1 or 2. Just me.

But then again, we learn from our experiences. Bad or good, we still choose what to learn, unlearn and re-learn. And that's how we pick out what is relevant and what we should leave behind.

I just did a solo travel. And this would definitely not be the last one.

**Warning: Heavy post**

Maniwaya Island - Sta.Cruz., Marinduque

Poctoy Beach in Marinduque

I heart Marinduque! Boac adventures

And yes! It's Marinduque. Oh, if you're wondering, I just did a solo travel a few weeks ago (read it here). And so I chose to go to Marinduque. I didn't have time to do a thorough research but I read Kim's (of Kimviajera) Marinduque trip and made it as my guide on how to go around the province.

To get to Marinduque province you can commute via bus and RORO or take your own ride and bring it to the province via RORO in Dalahican port, Lucena city. For me, the best option was to commute via bus. I also have two options in commuting. It's either I ride a bus going to Lucena's Dalahican port and then ride the RORO ferry and then ride a van or jeepney in Marinduque or I could catch the direct JAC Liner bus to Marinduque which would lessen all the hassle. That bus will also get inside the RORO but all the fares will be included in just one payment only.

So I was at the JAC Liner Kamuning terminal at around 5:45 p.m. (it's just across the GMA - 7 station). My target was to get into the bus that goes directly to Marinduque. I asked a guard and he said that the bus left 20 minutes ago. So he instructed me to wait for a bus that goes straight to Dalahican port. There was only 1 queue for all Quezon-bound buses and just because it was the day before the 4-day long weekend, there were many passengers waiting for buses. At around 6:30 p.m., I boarded the Lucena-Dalahican port bus and off we went for my first ever solo trip. The fare should've been 227.50 pesos but I paid only 182 pesos because of my student ID. Good thing they consider M.A. students as "students". Up until I boarded the bus I was thinking of quitting the solo travel thing. I've never been to Marinduque and I don't know any soul that was from the province so there was really a panic attack going on inside me. Good thing the JAC Liner bus has a wi-fi that kept me busy reading some info about the province on board.

this is it pansit!

At around 11:35 pm., we arrived at the Dalahican port in Lucena. There were lots of porters who were scurrying over the passengers to "assist" on RORO. They offered van transfers around Marinduque and other stuff. I didn't bother anyone of them and went on to the counter to inquire. There are 3 major ports in Marinduque; the Cawit port in Boac town, the Buyabod port in Sta.Cruz town and the Balanacan port in Mogpog town. I needed to go to Maniwaya island in Sta.Cruz so I targeted the Buyabod port but they said that there will be no ferries going to Buyabod port at that time. My option was to ride the 12 midnight Cawit port-bound ferry or the 4 a.m. Balanacan port-bound ferry. I chose the latter because I wouldn't know what to do in Boac when I arrive there at 3:00 a.m. I paid 24 pesos student's fare for terminal fee (regular fee 30 pesos). And then I bought a ticket for the Montenegro Shipping Lines and paid 221 pesos student's fare (regular fee 260 pesos). I went into the terminal/waiting area and there were many people waiting inside. There were some food stalls and other shops who offer sleeping cots for 40 pesos. I opted to sleep in a chair somewhere.

And then it was time for us to board the ferry. I was in awe when I saw how people scrambled to get inside the ferry. I mean, what's the rush guys? And when I got inside and went to the upper decks I clearly got the point of rushing. It was to get the perfect spot for the 3-hour ride. There were people in their hammocks that were tied on side railings, people sleeping on their sleeping bags and some were in the benches. I sat somewhere and slept throughout the trip.

I was welcomed with a nice, morning breeze of Marinduque. We arrived at around 7:00 a.m. and as we were getting near the Balanacan port, people were starting to scramble again. And I joined them. This time, we all want to get into the vans and jeepneys waiting outside the port. I went into a van and paid 80 pesos to bring me to Sta.Cruz town - the jump-off point to Maniwaya island (have you heard of that island before?). And after about an hour, I was already in Sta.Cruz and asked around on how to go to Buyabod port. I rode a tricycle and paid 25 pesos for the ride. There were 6 persons and lots of stuff inside the tricycle. They would really squeeze everything inside.

me + 5 persons + lotsa stuff inside and out

After 15 minutes, we were at the Buyabod port. People there were telling me that the passenger boat going to Maniwaya will leave at around 10:30-11:00 a.m. No definite time. As long as the locals of the island were done with their errands around town then the boat will leave. It is the only boat for that day. If you want to do just a daytrip on the island, you have to rent a boat on the port. And then I waited again in an eatery. I had some breakfast and chatted with the locals. They were asking me stuff like; if I knew someone from the island or why am I traveling alone. It's such a nice feeling to chat with them and how they were concerned about the flood that just hit Manila few weeks earlier. And then after about 3 hours of non-stop chitchatting with the locals, I boarded the boat. And I must say that it is a very unique boat. It was so deep and they fill it up with produce and other stuff that they will be selling at the island. I paid 50 pesos for the boat ride.

Buyabod port, Sta.Cruz,Marinduque

how deep is your (love) boat?

After about 25 minutes, I was already in Maniwaya island. Almost 19 hours on the road - solo - and I reached my first point of interest in Marinduque. People there directed me to Residencia De Palo Maria Resort. It's a relatively new resort that opened last April 2012. A few days before the trip, I texted the number that was posted on their Facebook page and the guy called me up. Apparently, it was Sir Clarence - the owner. I booked their cheapest room and got huge discounts. The native hut/fan room is at 1,500 per night but I got a huge discount because I haggled and begged that I was traveling and staying there alone. Sir Clarence agreed and I was totally happy about it. Here are the rates for the rooms published on their Facebook page:

FAMILY ROOM:

Php 2,500.00

Overnight stay 24hrs. (Min. of 4 persons / max of 7 persons)

Additional Php 200 per bed/person

Inclusion: W/ Aircon, Private toilet and bath, kitchen, TV w/ Cable and Ref.

TWIN BUNGALOW ROOM

Php 2,000.00

Overnight stay/ 24hrs. (Min. 4 / Max. of 5 persons)

Additonal Php 200.00 per bed/person

Inclusion: W/ Aircon, Private toilet and bath, TV w/ Cable

Kubo/ Bamboo Hut

Php 1,500.00

Overnight stay/24hrs (2-3 persons) w/Fan and TV

Sir Clarence toured me around the resort. He was with his family that time because of the long weekend. I was the only guest that day so it felt like I was a part of their family. And then I went into my Nipa Hut. I got so excited because it reminded me of my younger days when me and my cousins would play in a hut like that in our province. It's a typical nipa hut with 1 bedroom. There was a sitting area where you can watch TV. Oh how I love the bedroom. It was so tiny and cozy at the same time. I roughly measured it and it's about 1 meter by 1.5 meters. Just right for a double bed. There was also a ceiling fan installed. You wouldn't need an AC because it was cold at night and the breeze coming from the bamboo flooring helped a lot. Also, there were no mosquitoes anywhere. There wasn't any padlock or whatever but I assure you that your stuff will be safe there (unless there were other guests). It was the perfect hut for me. The only downside I think was the shared bathroom. You need to go out of your hut if you suddenly feel the need to do so. And also, the electricity in the island was so erratic but the resort has its own generator set so that will not be a problem.

Nipa hut - 1,500 per night

sakto

shared toilet and bath

As with the food, you can order from the kitchen ahead of time. They have fresh seafood everyday and you can have it grilled, stew or fried. As for me, they offered every single meal that they serve their family so even the meriendas were included - all for free. Woohoo! The perks of traveling alone.

I stayed on my "porch" and read a book. After a while, and I didn't notice it, I fell into a deep sleep. My first "sleep" after spending 19 hours on the road - straight from my work. I was awakened by the sound of the waves and the cool afternoon breeze. It was nice. And then I realized, I need to go out and explore the island. So I changed into my swimsuits and went around the island. It was a very peaceful and untouched (on my perspective) island. It was quiet and I loved it.

When I went back to the resort after a short walk, Sir Cliff (brother of Sir Clarence) invited me to ride the jetski. He wanted me to drive it but I refused. I'm prone to break things easily so I declined. We went for a ride around the island and showed me some improvements on the other side. There were some resorts being developed and that's a sign that this place will be a hit soon.

thanks sir Cliff

the "Palo Maria Resort" (not the "Residencia de Palo Maria")

After the short ride, Sir Clarence invited me to join him and his kids to go to Palad sandbar. I didn't know that they have a sandbar there (biglaang lakad - walang naganap na research). We went there with a jetski and a speed boat (totyal). We passed by an area where there were coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. It was so clear that it can be seen from the boat. And after almost 8 minutes, we arrived at the sandbar. And boy I was really happy! Good thing it was lowtide at that time so the sandbar appeared. I was running with the kids and we were enjoying the sand, sun and the sea. Perfect! And then without any notice, Sir Clarence took me for a ride in his jetski. He asked me if he can go fast and he did go fast! It was so fun! Sir Clarence was great in driving the jetski. Especially when he made his 360-degree turns. Amazing. A very talented guy.

snorkel next time?

Palad sandbar

rash guard over my two-piece. takot sa araw?

Sir Cliff

Sir Clarence and his amazing moves

Sir Clarence

Sir Cliff

When we arrived at the resort after a good 1 hour at the sandbar, we were greeted by Ma'am Ester (Sir Clarence's wife) and gave us banana cue. We chatted along the shore, on their sitting area there, with sunset on the background. It was great. I felt like I was part of the family. What's really nice about them is that you wouldn't feel intimidated when you're with them. They won't make you feel that you're "just" a guest but rather a part of their family.

Right before dinner, we went to the pool and took a dip. You can't resist it because of the amazing light show and the fountain from the pool. It was as if I was part of a show or something. Lovely.

sunset at Maniwaya

Hameyzing!

And what's for dinner? Grilled squids, fried fish and squids, fish sinigang, and lotsa fruits. Best of all, they didn't charge me for all the food I ate when I was there. I got everything for free. Even the Palad sandbar adventure, it was at no cost at all. Galing!

I slept perfectly fine that night and was so glad I did. I woke up at around 5:30 a.m. I headed straight to the kitchen to ask for a hot drinking water (I have a stash of coffee when I travel) and Sir Clarence's parents were there having their coffee. I chatted for a while and they asked me to have breakfast with them, I told them that my morning coffee would suffice. I went to the beach again and waited for the sunrise.

improvents all around

I fixed my stuff knowing that I need to catch the 7:00 a.m. boat to Buyabod port. But when Sir Clarence saw me, he said that I need not rush because they were going to the town to buy some food and stuff so I might as well join them via the speedboat. And at around 8:00 a.m. I left the Maniwaya island with a happy heart. It was a fulfilling trip as it is but when you meet a family like them, you'd feel that you just need to come back - real soon.

nasanay na sa speed boat

Again, thank you so much Sir Clarence, Ma'am Ester, Sir Cliff and family. Also with the staff of the resort. You made my first day at the Heart of the Philippines a very memorable one.

moi, Sir Cliff, Sir Clarence and Ma'am Ester

Residencia De Palo Maria

Maniwaya Island, Sta.Cruz, Marinduque

0919.237.5633

0922.867.0312

https://www.facebook.com/ResidenciaDePaloMaria

**Warning: Heavy post (...again)**

Maniwaya Island - Sta.Cruz., Marinduque

Poctoy Beach in Marinduque

I heart Marinduque! Boac adventures

If you haven't heard about it, I've traveled solo - for the first time! And yes it's Marinduque. I explored Maniwaya island on the first day and was so blessed to meet the owner of the Residencia De Palo Maria resort. They were the best and they made my stay so memorable with all the perks I got (that I didn't think I would get if it I wasn't traveling alone).

On the second day of my Marinduque adventure, I went straight to the Sta.Cruz church at the town of Sta.Cruz. I took a tricycle from the Buyabod port and paid 25 pesos for the trip. It was a Sunday so I just settled outside the church. I took a peek inside and amazed with the structure of this 18th century church (1714). I also saw the Holy Infant Parochial school just beside the church.

Sta.Cruz church

TRIVIA: separate parochial schools for boys and girls were established during the Spanish era

What I noticed about Marinduque was the erratic electrical supply. Most establishments have their own generator sets and blackouts were a common thing for them. And so I walked to the Sta.Cruz public market and looked for the jeepney terminal. I needed to go to the town of Torrijos for another beach bumming in Poctoy beach. Torrijos is the next town right after Sta.Cruz but it takes 1 hour - the least - to reach the town by jeepney. I searched for a jeepney with the signboard "Torrijos" and hopped in. There was a bench in the middle of the jeepney and top loading is just a normal thing to them. Oh boy the jeepney was full - really full of people and some fresh produce. It was my first jeepney ride in the province and I didn't know how it works there, how do you say "Para" and how are you going to pay, so I just observed how they did it. I noticed that people were quiet. I mean no two persons were talking so loud. Everyone was whispering. I loved it. The view was amazing. And after 10 minutes, someone unloaded the jeepney. He knocked the roof and paid directly to the driver when he went down. So that's how they do it there. But there were few passengers who paid even before they went down and passed the money from one passenger to the other until it gets to the driver - just how they do it here in Manila. I heard someone paid and said "Poctoy" and then eureka! I just have to keep an eye on that girl to know that I was on the right place. The fare was 40 pesos. If you're coming from the town of Sta.Cruz, you have to seat on the left side of the jeepney and look out for the Poctoy Beach arch. I arrived at around 9:50 a.m. and it took me 55 minutes to reach Poctoy beach from the town of Sta. Cruz.

source

air-cool windshield

there's room for more

I asked the girl (13 years old) if I can walk from the main road up to the Poctoy beach. She said yes and asked me if I'm from Manila - she said it was obvious. She's Ayssel. We had a quick chat and I learned that her dad takes care of a beachfront homestay and that I can ask her dad about it. After a few minutes we were at the beach. It was a Sunday and as expected, people flocked on this government-controlled beach. There were people everywhere - What am I doing here with all of these people? But then again, I can't quit. Need to move forward. There were some entrance and parking fees and when I was going to pay the supposedly 20 pesos entrance fee + 10 pesos environmental fee, the lady saw Ayssel and thought that I was her friend and so she waived the fees. That was just great. And so we moved on and saw their mini grocery near the beach. I met her Mom (Ate Anabel) and Dad (Kuya Russell) and then we walked a few meters to the Dud's Homestay.

don't miss this arch

walk a few meters and there's the beach

I got in for free - again

Dud's Homestay is not a resort - if you're thinking about room service and the works. It's a private house wherein the owners decided to make it as a homestay if they're not in town. There are fan rooms and AC rooms. It ranges from 1,200 to 1,800. And because I needed a cheaper room, I stated my case to Kuya Russell - especially that there was no electricity supply at that time so it made my offer more acceptable. I haggled up to such point that he gave up and gave in with my offer. It was for 600 pesos - he called the owner and cited that I was alone and stuff. Deal! I got the double fan room with a seaview at the second level of the house. There was a functional kitchen on the first level. I didn't get to have my own toilet and bath but hey, I was alone and I owned the whole house. I got scared at first (coz I don't have a key of the house or something) but Kuya Russell assured me that everything will be fine and asked Ayssel to accompany me at night but I declined. I think that was too much hassle for them already.

Dud's homestay

great for big groups

bar on the left / dining and kitchen area on the right

let's go up!

living area on the second level - perfect for tambay

my double room for 600 pesos - c'mon! almost 50% discount

the shared toilet and bath on the second level

Kuya Russell left me and I stayed at the veranda to check out the view. It was a busy Sunday. People were everywhere and enjoying the sun and the beach with family and friends. I was there alone in the house, alone in that trip - I would be lying if I didn't wish to have some soul with me but then I realized I was really destined to be in that situation at that time. So there, at around 11 a.m. I fixed my stuff and read my book and went into a deep sleep - without a fan. I woke up at around 2 p.m. and got hungry. I realized that I only had coffee and some biscuits that morning.

the veranda

almost finished this book

trying a morion mask

It would be such a waste of time to just lie there and read so I went out. I was looking for an eatery but found none. I went to Ayssel and their store. They wanted to cook something for me but I don't want to bother them anymore so I took their second offer - a nice and big cup noodles plus some bread. I had a nice chat with Ate Anabel and her booming business. She said that she gets almost all of her stuff at Divisoria. She also mentioned about the guests they had at the beach. They are happy that tourism in their province is starting to boom.

poctoy sand

ansabe?

infer! mababaw yan mga bagets

After that I went to the beach - with the scorching heat at 2:40 p.m. I looked around and realized that this is totally not the place for me. I walked along the shore and move further. Away from the public area. I went to the leftmost side of the beach (facing the sea) and found out that there were some big rocks on that end. When I went passed those rocks I found paradise!

go to the leftmost part of the beach (facing the sea)
go beyond those rocks

and then paradise...

way past those rocks

There were no people. There were some private lots and properties but they don't own the beach right? So I've decided to stay there for the whole afternoon.

truly amazing

salamat sa remote

I just needed a decent photo with Mt. Malindig as a "backdrop"

I took a dip and checked out the beach. The water was so refreshing and I enjoyed it. Camwhored because there's nothing else to do. Ran around. Jumped. Shouted. Rolled over the sand. Felt like crazy. But yeah it was funny. And then I saw this unpretentious bahay kubo. It said "private" on one peg but no one even bothered to shoo me away. Maybe it's because I'm alone and not bothering anyone. So there. I spent almost 3 hours on that side of the beach. Didn't get to self-actualize (not that I intend to) but to hear the waves and see that kind of view kinda stabilized my whole being. One thing I learned from Tita Girlie on my recent Coron trip - you get to REALLY enjoy vacations if you work like hell and is hungry for the stillness of time, if you're like me who travels because of my husband's job then you'll see vacations as a very normal thing.

ang "private" kubo na tinambayan

spent almost 3 hours here

Kids learn through experience, not memorization - Long past stopping by Oran Canfield
baka ma - Tito Sotto

After sunset, I went back to the "public" beach and wondered why people flocked on this area and not on the paradise just 20 tumblings away from there. Oh well, to each his own. I went back to Kuya Russell and Ate Anabel's store and watched this showbiz-oriented show on local TV. I also had some few bottles so as to convince myself that sleeping alone in the house will be a very good idea. I went back to the house, took a shower and slept like there's no tomorrow. I think the beers helped. Birds that were gossiping early in the morning woke me up. It was such a nice sleep and I immediately went to the veranda to check out the beach. I needed to get a better view so I went to kitchen, made some coffee (I had some stash with me... everytime I travel) and went into the beach. It was a nice morning and there were no people around. It was so refreshing. And then I looked at the time, it's time to go now. I quickly fixed my stuff, took a shower and made a note telling the Real family how I really appreciated their help. I went to the same route I did yesterday and there I was on the main highway waiting for my jeepney to arrive.

sunrise!

me + my bags + marinduque = total bliss!

And then I went to the town of Boac...

Dud's Homestay
Poctoy Beach, Torrijos, Marinduque
Kuya Russell Real (caretaker) - 0947.351.02.20
Ate Anable Real - 0929.224.63.15

**Warning: Heavy post**

Maniwaya Island - Sta.Cruz., Marinduque

Poctoy Beach in Marinduque

I heart Marinduque! Boac adventures

This is the last part of my first epic solo travel series. Yes! I braved the fear of the unknown and came back not one less of what I am before - I even gained more. I was still at the Poctoy beach at around 7:05 a.m. and then I waited for my jeepney which is the only way to commute from one town to the other (you can hire a tricycle but it would be inconvenient for the driver). And also, jeepney schedules in Marinduque is not reliable - they don't have schedules I guess. Better ask the people there 'coz they know much better. I was waiting for the jeepney with Sta. Cruz in the signboard. I need to go to Sta.Cruz before I can reach Boac. And then I realized that I was just there the other day at Maniwaya island. So after 25 minutes, the jeepney finally arrived. I stayed again on the right side of the jeepney for the most refreshing view of the town. We reached Sta.Cruz in 50 minutes and I paid 40 pesos right before I went down. In that same terminal, I asked for the stationed jeepney going to Boac. It's on the farthest side of the terminal and it was half full when I got inside. We waited for almost 15 minutes for it to be filled. I paid 47 pesos and we reached Boac in just 1 hour.

When I was finally in Boac, it felt like I was transformed in the old times. The houses on downtown are old but still functional. There's this rustic feel to the town. The quiet town made it a perfect last-few-days-on-a-solo-travel place.

I heart Marinduque

First things first. I need to look for a hotel for my overnight stay in the town. I had a list of some hotels in the town and at 10:00 a.m., I was looking for my place for the day. The two inns I asked were fully booked and as I was walking around I saw the Boac hotel. I went in and asked for the rates. At that time, when I was really hungry and tired, any hotel that has a room would suffice - at any rate (yabang lang). And then I found out that they still have a Fan room for 450 pesos and then I immediately said yes. There's a free Wi-Fi connection on the lobby and I took that chance to check out a Boac town map just to see where I could go afterwards. After paying the whole amount to the front desk lady, she handed me my room keys. I was assigned to room 210. I went to my room unaccompanied. At first look, it seemed and felt like the room was used for quickie/short-time stuff. It's very evident on the vandalism on the walls. Well, I have no time to look for any room or hotel. Good thing I was alone, my decision is the only decision and need not consider others'. I had my own toilet and bath, a TV, a bed, my own veranda and a fan. Very basic and for its price I can bear with it. I wished that I should've researched more so as to have a better room. And then I saw the room across and saw how cozy the AC room is. I had a quick shower and planned to have a very nice lunch somewhere, no definite place in mind.

the lobby

my room

the view from the veranda

I went out and looked for restaurants and saw Casa de Don Emilio which is two blocks away from the Boac Hotel - blocks there do have the same perfect plot size. The Casa is right across the Town Hall and on the second level of the famous Kusina sa Plaza. I read somewhere that the Casa is one of the most raved about restaurant in Boac so I went inside to check out the restaurant. And boy it didn't fail to amaze me on first sight. I was the only guest and I explored the space first before checking out the menu. The Casa is Spanish-inspired and almost all of the stuff there are made of wood. Vintage lovers will definitely have a feast on their eyes here. There's a free Wi-Fi connection but then there was a power interruption when I was there so I was stuck with myself, the Casa and the fabulous view of the town. I strategically positioned myself in a table near the huge window. It gave me the view I needed for a good and much deserved meal - my first formal meal after two days. I ordered rice(20 pesos), Shanghai rolls (60 pesos) and Pinaso na Gabi which happened to be their own version of the Laing (95 pesos). I was famished and needed to wait a few minutes for my food to be served so I checked out the other parts of the Casa. I browsed on some books that were in a certain old desk and a particular book was about Marinduque. I checked it out and learned so much about the history, people and culture of the province. I read so much about Moriones festival and the Legend of Maring and Gat Duke. And then the food was served. It was on huge portions and can feed two persons. I didn't have the time to savor every bite because I was so hungry. But then after finishing everything, I realized that the food I ordered was just ok. Nothing to be excited about. Actually, it tasted bland and if I was not hungry I would not have eaten the whole thing. But then I can't make a comment about the whole menu of the restaurant 'coz I didn't get to taste their pasta and other stuff. But as for me, I was paying for the view and the experience. I spent almost 2 hours in the restaurant just looking around and reading some books. I asked the lady server for some directions on going around the town and promised her to come back at night to have a coffee or something.

Kusina sa Plaza on 1st level and Casa de Don Emilio on the 2nd

stairway to the Casa

the view from my spot

Pinaso na Gabi

Shanghai rolls

Ma'am gusto n'yo po kuhanan ko kayo ng picture?
sure! (teka, pa'no niya nalaman na titser ako - chos)

I went across the restaurant and saw the Boac Municipal Hall and the Marinduque Branch of the National Museum which were both closed at that time because it was a holiday.

Boac Municipal Hall

every town has his statue

And then I walked two blocks from the Municipal Hall and went back to my room in the hotel for a nap. The food I consumed completely paralyzed my whole being and I fell into a deep sleep. I woke up and decided to go to Boac church. I needed to hike a bit 'coz it's on top of a hill. The road leading to the hill was just across the hotel so I went there and immediately saw the bell tower form the road and knew right away that I was near it. I heard a chorale singing from the outside. The calmness of the town was perfectly en sync with the heavenly voices of the young members of the ensemble. I went inside and sat down to watch them do their rehearsals. Then I went around the church, the bell tower and the houses of nuns, priests and bishops near the church. It was a good thing that it was not a Sunday and there weren't any weddings or any other services going on at that time.

bell tower from the road

I went back to downtown and realized that I have nowhere to go. So I just walked around the town at around 4 p.m. I saw where the Moriones Festival was held and some old houses-turned-establishments around the town. There were lots of souvenir and gift shops around and I scored a Marinduque ref magnet for 35 pesos with my mom on my mind. I also bought some arrow root cookies for 100 pesos per pack. Then I went back to where I was 5 hours ago and saw the Kusina Sa Plaza. I went inside and found out that the restaurant is divided into three different clusters; the pizza/snack bar, the luncheon area and the air-conditioned space for the customers. There's also a free Wi-Fi connection inside. And then I saw that people were ordering pizzas. So I ordered a solo ham and cheese pizza (35 pesos) and a halo-halo (35 pesos). It tasted fine and I ain't be raving about it. I stayed there for an hour and was engrossed with reading my book.

Kusina sa Plaza luncheon area

halo-halo

solo-sized ham and cheese pizze

And then I saw the Casa de Don Emilio again. It glowed from the outside. I told myself that I needed to see it at night. I went back again and the lady server immediately noticed me. I saw a couple having early dinner at the same spot where I stayed earlier. I ordered a tea (30 pesos) for I was still full that time. I then looked for a nice place to chill and brought out my book and my journal. At times, I was browsing the internet and walking around the restaurant. It's so homey. I learned that they were open up to 9:00 that evening so this is just the perfect chill place for me. And just so you know, cigarette smoking is allowed in here (not that I promote smoking though). I finished a few chapters and asked for a refill of hot water for my tea. They said that it's for free and I need not worry about asking for more - up until the tea doesn't taste tea anymore. At 8:30 p.m. I thanked everyone (well just the two of them) for letting me stay for almost 3 hours and then they asked me to sign in their guest book - I graciously obliged.

felt like I was at home

I went back to Boac hotel and fixed my stuff 'coz I will be leaving early the next day. I caught Julia Roberts' Eat, Pray and Love on HBO and watched it for the first time - yeah first time, loser me.

I woke up the next day at around 5:00 a.m., took a shower, checked out from the hotel and went to Boac market to catch the jeepneys going directly to Balanacan port in Mogpog town. The sleepy town of Boac at 5:40 a.m. was just the perfect time to walk around. I took that time to savor my last few moments of the town. It was so refreshing to breathe some fresh air - the kind that you need not worry about smoke or dust. And then I hopped on a Balanacan-bound jeepney and paid 50 pesos for the 30-minute trip. I was just in time for the 6:40 a.m. Starhorse shipping lines RORO trip to Lucena city. Arriving at Lucena, I ran to where the buses were just to pick a nice bus and a good seat. There were loads of buses right outside the port that goes to Pasay, Cubao and other parts of Metro Manila. I chanced upon the JAC Liner again (maybe because of the screaming "WI-FI" signage on its windshield) and paid 182 pesos for the supposedly 227.50 pesos ride to their Kamuning station (if you haven't been reading, I have a student discount because I am a Graduate School student - and yes, they honor it).

The three-hour trip made me realize so many things. One of which was that I can definitely do it - the solo travel thing. All this time I thought that solo traveling isn't for me. That I will be sad. That I'm such a talker and that traveling solo would paralyze my tongue for days. That I wouldn't enjoy it as much as when I'm with someone with whom I can share that moment with. That it would be expensive because you don't have anyone to split the costs with. But then, I learned that all this time I was fooling myself and everyone with those excuses. Really. Those were just the best excuses I could think of.

Phone in question: Will I do it again? Hell yeah!

Zamboanga City cheap accommodation - Atilano compound

Zamboanga City food trip and pasalubong hunt
Ciudad de Zamboanga

That pink sand in Sta.Cruz island

It was one hot Saturday afternoon, me and Jay were about to embark on our Mindanao trip - our first together. Zamboanga City that is. I did some research about hotels and lodging houses prior the trip. And I found out that there are some cheap room accommodations that can fit anyone's budget. It's the Atilano compound in Zamboanga City, an area where there are about 5 pension houses to choose from.

How to get there? If you're arriving from the Zamboanga City airport, just walk up to the airport's gate and look for a jeepney with the signboard "CANELAR". Tell the driver that you are going to Atilano compound or Gerry's Grill in Mayor Jaldon street. The fare is 7 pesos each person and travel time is about 15 minutes. You can also take a tricycle from the airport but prepare to pay a "special-ride" fare which of course is more expensive than taking the jeepney. You can ask the jeepney driver to drop you off at the Atilano compound. You can also stay at the right side of the jeepney (facing the driver) and look for Gerry's Grill Restaurant at the right side of the road and don't forget to knock on the jeepney's ceiling when you alight - all this time I thought you have to yell PARA for the driver to stop because their main dialect is Chavacano which is practically a Spanish-based language. When you're already at the restaurant, just go straight the road. At the end of the road you have to turn right and you will see the cluster of inns and pension houses around the area. For visual learners check this out:

ride a Canelar-bound jeepney from the airport
pay 7 pesos each person
alight on this street right beside the restaurant

go straight ahead

turn right at the end of the road

and there you will see the cluster of pension houses

There are about 5 pension houses in that area and almost all of them offer cheap rates for either 12-hour or 24-hour stay. There's the N. Atilano New Pension House, Chang-V Atilano Pension House, Atilano New Pension House, KNC Atilano Pension House and Casa Don Atilano. I noticed that all of those are bearing "Atilano" on their names only to find out that it was a surname of a former mayor in the city.

N. Atilano New Pension house

Chang-V Atilano Pension House

Atilano New Pension House

KNC Atilano Pension House

We checked out all the pension houses and we ended up with Casa Don Atilano to be our temporary refuge for 3 days. We booked an Aircon room for 2 nights for 600 pesos per night. The room that was assigned to us was huge. I think it's really meant for a family. There's a double bed on one side and a single bed on the other side. There were also two bathrooms in the room - funny, I know! It made us scram to choose our "own" bathroom (which is great because we sometimes fight about it when we travel). We also had a TV in that same room but the room was really huge for the two of us. I still can't get over with the size of the room.

Casa Don Atilano

the Aircon rooms
our room is on the rightmost side of the photo

double bed/ TV/ Aircon/ bathroom

some kind of a kitchen with a sink/ two more doors/ mirror/ tables and a space for ballroom dancing

single bed and Jay's bathroom

my bathroom

What I love about Casa Don Atilano is that their pension house is a bungalow-type and the location is just perfect. It is far from the downtown and there's this feeling that you are just at home in your own neighborhood. Also, you can ask for a free hot drinking water anytime for free (even at wee hours of night, the thermos pot is just on the front desk).

What I don't like about the place is the water supply. They turn it off sometimes and when we needed to take a shower one night, we can't seem to figure out where to go to ask for a help because there's no one in the front desk. Good thing we stocked up some water in both bathrooms. The next day we even have to ask them for the water supply in our room - they might have forgotten that they have guests because we were the only ones who were occupying the pension house.

Going back to the airport from Casa Don Atilano pension house you just need to go to the main highway and wait for a jeepney with the signboard "AIRPORT". Hop on the jeepney and pay 7 pesos each person and within 15 minutes, you'll find yourself in the most visually and aesthetically appealing terminal in the Philippines.

Casa Don Atilano
Atilano compound, Mayor Jaldon street, Zamboanga City
landline - 092.990.1962
mobile - 0917.303.48.79

Zamboanga City cheap accommodation - Atilano compound

Zamboanga City food trip and pasalubong hunt
Ciudad de Zamboanga

That pink sand in Sta.Cruz island

It was a Saturday. We've got no plans or whatsoever. What I really wanted was to go to the Pink beach at Sta.Cruz island but that will be fulfilled on the second day. We haven't had any breakfast nor lunch. It was late in the afternoon and we decided to check out the food scene in Zamboanga city. According to my good ol' handy dandy notebook, I should try Jimmy's Satti Haus along Pilar street. We wouldn't know where that was so from Atilano compund, we took a jeepney to downtown (8 pesos each) or what they called pueblo and asked around there. We were at the City Hall and asked the people there. I am not so good in directions but what I remembered was they pointed us at a gas station. Just look for Jose Rizal's statue facing the city hall. On the opposite direction, parallel to where he stands, just follow the road from his back. Just walk up to a gas station on the right side of the road and turn right on that street - that's it, the Pilar street. It's a long stretch of commercial establishments. There are stalls that looked like what I usually see in Binondo or Divisoria but the cleaner version of it. We were really hungry and then we saw the Speedy Pizza.

Jay really wanted anything that looks and feels like pizza and spaghetti, that's his weakness. So when he saw the diner he convinced me to check out the place. We went inside and saw a Chinese couple that looked like the owners of the restaurant. He ordered this solo supreme pizza and a solo chicken pizza (I didn't look at the menu so I dunno what exactly it was called) to go for 70 pesos and 80 pesos respectively. We went out and looked for the satti haus. But then again we saw this very interesting restaurant - the Fat Belly's.

solo supreme pizza (didn't know what it was exactly called) - 70 pesos

solo chicken pizza - 80 pesos

Fat Belly's restaurant is just a few meters from the pizza house. We checked it out and decided to try out some of their food. We were greeted by the owner who right away knew that we weren't from Zamboanga City. He said that almost all of the eateries and restaurants in the city are prepared and cooked in halal way.

According to wikipedia, Halal (Arabic: حلال‎ ḥalāl, "permissible") is a term designating any object or an action which is permissible to use or engage in, according to Islamic law. The term is used to designate food seen as permissible according to Islamic law.

Basically, pork is totally not included in Fat Belly's menu. The owner recommended their coffee with milk. He even told us that tourists usually compare it to the famous coffee of Kopi Roti. Jay had a brewed coffee for 18 pesos (amazing!) and I got the famous coffee with milk for 25 pesos. And boy it was really good that I ordered another one right after I finished mine. I can't seem to figure out why it tasted so good but it's perfectly great. We also got Chicken Piyanggang for 80 pesos,Beryani rice for 80 pesos, Pansit Guisado for 25 pesos and their bread that looked like a mamon-tostado for 5 pesos each. While we waited for the food to be served, we munched on the pizzas we took out. What I remembered was how yummy the chicken pizza was. It was really good. The food arrived and we looked at it for a minute and figured out where to put everything because the servings were huge. I particularly liked the Chicken Piyanggang. It looked weird but I am telling you that it is great. It's spicy and there was also a dip that all I could remember was the ginger. I love ginger by the way. Well, this is the part where I'm lost with words. I am no food blogger and it really pains me to quantify and qualify taste as what is yummy for me is described as yummy - if you know what I mean. Jay loved the Beryani rice - he loves anything that is fried period.

brewed coffee - 18 pesos
brewed coffee with milk- 25 pesos
hameyzing!

Beryani rice - 80 pesos

Pansit guisado - 25 pesos

Chicken Piyanggang - 80 pesos (super must-try)

After the great meal, we decided to eat at the satti haus the next day because we were already full. We walked up to the end of Pilar street and saw where the satti haus was and took note of the exact place. We went straight and looked for the Paseo del Mar - apparently, the most happening place in the city. We mistakenly went to the National Museum and saw a few stalls in front of it. One of the stores had thisbarquillos-like snack and bought 1 pack. A pack with 10 pcs. costs 10 pesos only, 1 peso each - great! I finished it with a bottle of soda and bought some more so as to not miss it while I was there - loved it that much.

reminded me of barquillos - 1 peso each!

We went to Paseo del Mar and saw how locals were really into this place. There were people near the sea watching the sunset, there were students who were practicing something on the other part and families who were having their afternoon snack. There were many restaurants that offer different menu (almost all are halal-certified) and what caught our attention was the barbecue stand on one side. There were so many people on queue and we instantly knew what to do - join the bandwagon. We got 20 pcs. red isaw for 1 peso each (yes dear, piso!), 1 order (4 pcs.) of chicken balls for 10 pesos/order, 1 order (4 pcs.) of squid balls for 10 pesos/order, 5 pcs. tempura (local version) for 5 pesos each and 1 order (3 pcs.) of kwek-kwek for 10 pesos/order. There were three choices of dips - the sweet, sweet and spicy and spicy. Everything tasted the same but the red isaw. You can finish a one stick in one bite but ity was so tasty that our red platter turned instantly into pale colors after we finished all the isaw. Our first day turned out to be a great pig-out day.

clockwise: red isaw, squid balls, chicken balls, kwek-kwek and tempura

On our second day, right after our Sta.Cruz island trip, we went to Jimmy's Satti Haus along Pilar street. From Paseo del Mar, we found a way to get into the eatery by making a right turn along the street of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. We were the only ones who were there at that time. We saw a guy on the grilling area and he asked us to point what we wanted. It is of course a halal-certified eatery. I got some chicken, diced beef and beef's liver - all grilled. I paid 50 pesos for each meal. I didn't know what to expect so I was surprised when they served us our food. It looked like a soup with all the grilled food and some rice balls (probably from a pu-so or rice wrapped in banana leaves). It looked like a soup because of the satti sauce that was generously poured on the plate. The sauce is a fusion of a sweet and spicy thick sauce. I love sauces and dips but when I saw the satti, I realized that too much of everything is not nice at all. It was an experience though.

grilled chicken, diced beef, beef liver and rice balls with a generous serving of satti haus

We went back to Paseo del Mar to get some booze fix. There were some bars and restaurants that offered different treats for their customers. There were some live bands playing and the promos for the booze. We chose Bistro. We didn't check their menu beforehand, we just went there because of the aesthetic appeal of the restaurant. We got some Meaty spaghetti for 60 pesos (comes with a bread and iced tea), onion rings for 50 pesos and some strong beer for 50 pesos each (500 ml.). I didn't like their food. The onion rings were drenched in oil - not crispy at all. The spaghetti (for Jay) tasted like the normal pinoy sweet spaghetti (by the way, he ordered 2 for himself). The beer? It tasted the same of course. What I loved about dining there was the open-air-by-the-sea type of environment. There were lotsa people around but it didn't feel crowded. There were bands on some restaurants but it didn't feel loud at all. It's like finding the perfect balance in spite of the crazy and chaotic world. Too much drama eh?

full moon

meaty spaghetti - 60 pesos

onion rings - 50 pesos

happy?!

We spent our third and last day to look for the best pasalubong in town. My mom specifically asked for some spanish sardines. I looked for the Canelar barter but when I asked some locals they would point us to a regular market. Apparently, barter was commonly used there when they refer to a market. And then I chanced upon someone who knows where it is. From the pueblo, take a "Canelar-Airport" jeepney and stay on the right side facing the driver (8 pesos each). If you see an Iglesia ni Kristo church on the right side of the road, look for the next adjacent road and you will see a signage pointing to the barter. Just go straight the road and be in awe of what it has to offer. From the Atilano compound (our pension house) just go out the main road and walk your way to the barter and look for the signage on the left side of the road. Or you can take a tricycle with a "special ride" fare.

look for this sign and go straight the road it's pointing

any local brand?

sold along the street

We were giddy and excited to see some foreign brands around. Apparently, a half or more than of those items came from Malaysia. There were some famous brands of noodles, chocolates, coffee and other stuff. I dunno if it's cheaper there (I'm not into chocolates) but it was nice to see such brands in a local market. There are also some malong, bags and jewelries which are locally made. Look at what I bought:

100 pesos bought at the airport

3 pcs. for 100 pesos bought at Canelar bartet

lokot-lokot (it is fried) - 70 pesos bought at the airport

durian candy - 50 pesos/mangosteen candy - 35 pesos bought at Canelar barter

Apollo milk wafer - 110/4 packs bought at Canelar barter

Durian tart - 75 pesos bought at the airport

I really loved the barquillos, the coffee with milk and the Chicken Piyanggang. You should try them.

How 'bout you? What food did you enjoy the most from your recent trip?

Zamboanga City cheap accommodation - Atilano compound

Zamboanga City food trip and pasalubong hunt
Ciudad de Zamboanga

That pink sand in Sta.Cruz island

Everytime I travel, I do a little research beforehand and put it in my handy dandy notebook. Either I print it out or write it down. On our Zamboanga trip, I listed some where-to's and what-to's but then I didn't plan out a detailed itinerary (I never did one - ever). So after looking for a pension house in Atilano compound, we went out for a late lunch/early dinner food trip.

From our lodge, we took a pueblo-bound jeepney and paid 7 pesos each for the trip. I was eyeing to get into the city tourism office to get a free map. The pueblo is so much like a typical downtown area in Manila - it's so busy. In this very diversed city, it would be very typical to see and experience a healthy environment for everyone - no matter who you are and what you believe in. I would like my students to go there and experience how it is to be a minority so that they would feel how it is to be one and later on they would realize that having a classmate from another region of the country is a blessing rather than a liability or an object of mockery. Also, it is very normal to see policemen and military men roaming around the city with their unpretentious firearms. One would either feel safe because of them or alarmed because it connotes terror to some. But then they were just doing their jobs. A typical day for them. And whether you feel safe or alarmed the important thing is that they are there for everyone - it didn't make sense I know. End of digression.

So we were at the Zamboanga City Hall and noticed that all of the flags were at half-mast state and then we realized that it was because of Secretary Robredo's death (last week of August 2012). We asked for directions on where to find the city tourism office. Apparently, it was at the end of the road from the city hall - far end of the Pilar street. It was quite a long walk but it was nice to hear people speaking in their native Chavacano dialect and the view of old structures such as the oldest Bank of the Philippine Islands branch in the city which also houses the BPI museum installed just this year. Just so you know, I used to work in the said bank for 2 years as a bank teller.

Zamboanga city hall

half-mast

And then we reached the Zamboanga City Tourism Office just right outside the gate of the Paseo del Mar. We went in and asked for a free map of the city. We also asked about the Sta.Cruz island trip the next day. The tourism officers were so accommodating and even gave us a brief discourse about the Latin City of Asia - as stated at the map. We went out of the office and were flocked by some young vendors. They were selling candles that were the size of ballpoint pens and of different colors. It was for 1 peso each. The young lady explained to us the meaning of the certain colors. She was insisting me to buy the color white for "purity". I was asking for other colors but she was really pushing me to buy the white colored ones (so di ako pure?!). I ended up buying 20 pieces of different colors and she pointed us to the Our Lady of the Pilar Shrine. It was a Saturday so there was a mass held at that time. The shrine is not your typical wall-ceiling structure, it was adjacent to one of the walls of the Fort Pilar. We sat for a while and then went to where the candles should be burned. We went there, said a prayer and lighted the candles.

Zamboanga City Tourism Office

gotta love free maps

Our Lady of the Pilar shrine

Just beside the shrine is the National Museum - Zamboanga City branch. It is housed inside the Fort Pilar and an adult entrance fee is at 20 pesos per person and 10 pesos for students. There were a few exhibits at different galleries around the museum and what I loved the most was the city's art and culture exhibit. We also went on the second level to get a nice view of the sea. I learned so much from the exhibits and gave a thumbs up sign to the curator.

Next stop was the Paseo del Mar. The etymology of which is that the word Paseo - "a public walk or boulevard" and del mar - "from the sea" or "of the sea". So you do the math, oh I mean the translation. It houses the famous "Musically Gyrating Dancing Fountain". We were able to catch the first show at 6:30 p.m. and people flocked at the fountain to watch it "dance". We thought at first that the show will last for about 5 minutes tops. But it lasted for almost 15 minutes. The fountain "danced" with music from different genres (even classical music) and what I remembered was this certain upbeat local song of Zamboanga. The people sung along and even dancing in the few parts. Some of the people were at a boxing ring (set-up) in the middle of the park and some were at the breakwater to witness the majestic sunset. It was refreshing to see how people go to parks with their families and friends for leisure. I just wish that mall tycoons would spare the city from their plans. This would definitely ruin the laidback atmosphere of the city.

no malls please!

sunset at the boulevard

Musically Gyrating Dancing Fountain

Going back to the lodge, we walked up to city hall again and looked for a Canelar/airport - bound jeepney. But then I realized that I needed to buy some things from the grocery and we passed by the Plaza Pershing and saw a mini version of the gyrating fountain there.

Plaza Pershing

We've got nothing to do on our last day in the city so I checked my list and saw the Boy Scouts grounds. We looked for a Pasonanca-bound jeepney at the pueblo. We paid 10 pesos each for the 20 minutes ride. We asked the driver to drop us off the area. We went inside the grounds and paid no entrance fee. And then we asked the people there if we could walk up to the Pasonanca park - they said yes. We did a walkathon. It's a steep road so you need extra effort to get into the park. We passed by the Jardin Maria Clara Lobregat and decided to get inside their butterfly garden - we paid 5 pesos each for the entrance fee. And then we hopped on a pueblo-bound jeepney and paid 10 pesos each to go back to the downtown. And then we saw the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Concepcion in one of the streets so I shouted Para and then realized that I need to knock the ceiling to make the driver stop the jeepney. And so we did, but we didn't get to go inside the church though.

Maria Clara Lobregat

Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Concepcion

Our Zamboanga stint was more than a well-spent long weekend. It's more of cultural awareness and realizing your identity as a Filipino whether you're from Luzon, Visayas or Mindanao.

Zamboanga City cheap accommodation - Atilano compound

Zamboanga City food trip and pasalubong hunt
Ciudad de Zamboanga

That pink sand in Sta.Cruz island

One of the reasons why I booked a flight to Zamboanga city was because of the much coveted pink beach at Sta.Cruz island. I've seen a couple of posts about it and took note on how to get to that island. I planned to allot practically a day on the island. On our first day, after looking for a lodging house and good old eateries and restaurants, we went to the Zamboanga city tourism office right outside the gate of the Paseo del Mar along Pilar street. For directions on going around the city, do check it out here.

The tourism officers were very accommodating and responded to all of our queries. We particularly asked if we could possibly reserve a slot for the next day's trip to Sta.Cruz island. They said that there are no lists at that time and we just need to go to the jump-off point inside the Paseo del Mar the next day. They said that we need to be early so as to join other guests in the boat rather than renting the whole boat for the two of us. We were also told that there are no food stalls or stores in the island so we might wanna bring our own food in the island. We thought of buying some stuff from the grocery and having a heavy brekkie the next day - which was a big fail because all of the fastfoods were still closed when we went to the pueblo.

The next day we were at the Paseo del Mar at around 6:45 a.m. We went straight to the berthing point to the island. We filled out some forms for profiling and paid 20 pesos each for the terminal fee. They asked us if we would like to join other groups in a boat because they allow up to 10 persons max in a boat and each boat would cost 1,000 pesos/two-way. We agreed and they advised us to personally ask the groups if they would allow us to join them in their respective boats. We asked a group of 5 persons if we could join their boat and they agreed. Apparently, they were from Zamboanga city and were also first-timers just like us.

a good 20-minute ride

We left the berthing point at around 7:20 a.m. We were 10 inside the boat; 7 guests, 2 boatmen and a tourist police (which was the S.O.P. in all the boats to and fro the island). After 20 minutes we arrived at the Sta.Cruz island and once again, we registered at the tourism center at the island and saw some stalls for souvenir shopping on the area. We were also told that we could opt to use a cottage for a fee. The malong I have would suffice but Jay suggested that we should get a cottage for our things for his siesta bench - he loves to sleep anywhere and everywhere.

alas siyete y medya

Red + White + Pink

tired but happy feet

mini vinta

We immediately checked out the sand to see this pink shade of sand. Apparently, and as I read on some blog posts, a certain red coral is abundant on the island and its crushed particles would mix with the sand thus getting that pinkish tone from afar. Nice eh? We hurriedly went into the water and noticed that the water is clear and what struck us the most was the sudden depth of the seabed. At first it was thigh deep and then I was surprised that I cannot touch the sand anymore. Quite scary at first but you'll get the hang of it afterwards. We then looked for a cottage and got the smallest one for 100 pesos. There's also toilet and shower area on the island. But we noticed that there were no structures for overnight stay, later on we learned that there are talks about developing it into an island resort. There's also a military detachment at one end of the island for protection because of what had happened in the 80's where there were some guests who were abducted by some armed groups. Oh well, that was in the past and the important thing is that there are efforts to prevent those kind of things.

ankita kuya?

Moving on, we met a tourism officer (formerly from the environment and natural resources department) and he chitchatted with us. He's Elpidio or Pidyong (Pinoys really love nicknames). We asked him about the cemetery on the island and then voila! He hurriedly asked us to follow him making us leave our cottage right away. We walked a few meters from the shore and then went into the thick bushes and trees. It then revealed the cemetery of the Badjaos, Yakans and other groups from Mindanao. He told us that you would know what group, gender and the social status of the person buried depending on the design they put on the graves/grave markers. Also, they are usually wrapped with cloth and are placed on an L-shaped hole in the ground. The cemetery is extremely quiet and you would feel the serenity of the place. There were also some stuff like mugs, cups and saucers on the graves which were offered by their loved ones last July - their version of our All Soul's Day.

Jay: Kuya magkano 'yung isla na 'yun?

After that short but sweet time on the peaceful side of the island, we went back to the cottage and Pidyong asked us if we would like to see the mangroves at the back of the island. Apparently, his first love was Botany and even passed the board examinations for environmental planning - ang husay lang niya!

We went at the site where the mangroves were and we were so amazed on how vast it was. But wait. We followed Pidyong and went into the thick area of mangroves and he showed us the difference between a male and a female tree (there is such) and he also taught us how to know when it is mature enough to be planted. I'm so lame in explaining plants - I don't have any close relationship with plants, give me a cactus and it will die. But this one's interesting. He made Botany 101 really exciting. I learned so much from him than any of my Nat.Sci. profs - or maybe I cut class too often way back. He was even frustrated that we cannot go to the deeper parts of the mangroves (we were contented on what we saw by the way) because we don't have a boat to go to those areas. We went back to the cottage and continued the chat there. He told us his plan for the island if only they could allow him. We really felt his sincere love and concern for the environment and the island itself.

pwede na itanim vs. hindi pa pwede

girl, boy, bakla, tomboy?

awat na Pidyong... awat na

We ran back to the water and played with my underwater camera (magamit lang). And then we had our afternoon siesta on the bench of our cottage. And then ate some bread. Some cornick. Played some cards. Laughed. Teased. Ran. Jumped. And laughed. It was just so stress-free (steady lang).

Ray Ban Zamboanga edition - 70 bucks

magamit lang

At around 3 p.m. we were advised that our boat was ready and the group was already there waiting for us. We chitchatted awhile and enjoyed the boat ride back to Paseo del Mar.

7 hours. We spent 7 hours in Sta.Cruz island. It felt like a week. That feeling that you don't care about what time it is. Sometimes we need to have that kind of feeling just to put us back on where we should be. Ok. I'm being overly dramatic again. That pink sand was worth remembering - everything and everyone on it.

love that retractable thingy

I love long bus rides - provincial bus that is. I prefer land travel more than air and water. I love to be seated at the window side. I'm so fascinated with people and how they do their everyday stuff.

I really am fond of those retractable thingy at the back of each seat where someone could put his/her feet on it. I have this thing for chairs. Rarely do I find one which I could sit on perfectly. Either I move a little further to the edge just to rest both my feet or do an Indian seat instead. I have the shortest distance from my ankle to my knee - 14 inches to be exact. It's really hard for me to make them comfortable when sitting on something so that retractable thing is just divine.

I love the bus stops where people would rush to the toilets or the food stalls and eat like it's their last - a very devious act for me as I like to enjoy my food and munch on something for minutes.

I like to listen to the local fm radio stations using my mobile. I love to shuffle my ipod and hear rock, alternative and classical music in just one playlist like they're on a mosh pit or something. I love to lip sync in all of those songs and imagine myself in a music video on the window side of the bus - of course I should be alone on both seats 'coz people might think I'm screwed. That's why I like to seat at the last few rows of the bus 'coz front row ones are always filled up first.

I love to watch sunrise, sunsets and rainbows on a moving bus - lots of perspectives. I don't mind how long would it take for me to get to point B from point A but the most important thing is the ride - the things I could only do when I'm on the bus.

I also love student discount on bus fares. If you have been reading regularly, I have been a graduate student in a university in Quezon City. I don't look like a college student and some of the establishments or the fares would not allow graduate student to have discount but some wouldn't mind though. Just so you know, my id doesn't state that I am a graduate student, it bears the university's name, my name, my student number and my college/department. I have been enjoying the perks of having a student id for a year now. Discounted museum entrance fees, ferry ride fares, provincial bus rides and other stuff. But bus fares are the most tricky.

On my recent Baler and Marinduque trips, I had no problem with getting student discounts. I just presented my id and they just copied some of the information there for record purposes and voila, instant 20% discount on my fare.

But just this weekend, I was stunned with how my id and my charm failed me - or so I guess.

On my way to Northern Luzon, I went to the Victory Liner Cubao station, bought a ticket and presented my student id. The lady looked at me, then looked at my id. And then we had this conversation (let's call her the "Ticket Girl");

Ticket Girl:First time mag-enroll ma'am?

Carla:Po?

Ticket Girl:Pang ilan na course na po?

(maybe she saw my student number)

Carla:pangalawa? (actually it's my third)

(she handed me back my id)

Ticket Girl: Ma'am pang first course lang po tinatanggap namin eh.

Carla:Ano po? (with the weird and puzzled look on my face)

Ticket Girl: Bawal po 'pag pangalawa na

Carla:Ganun? (kamot-ulo), Tinanggap naman dati 'to sa Victory Caloocan ah

Ticket Girl:Ma'am 'yun po talaga eh

Carla:Ok sige

Actually I was pissed. That's a weird reason to start with. But wait there's more!

On my way back to Manila (just yesterday) aboard a Partas bus I gave my student id again. The conductor looked at me and the id. And then we had this conversation (Let's call him Remar Silva);

Remar Silva: Ma'am sa Diliman po kayo pumapasok

Carla:Opo

Remar Silva:Ay 'yung mga Sampaloc lang po ang tinatanggap namin eh

Carla:Ha?

Remar Silva:Sampaloc po sa Manila

Carla:Oo alam ko na sa Manila 'yun bakit nga?

Remar Silva:'Yung mga schools sa may Sampaloc lang po ang may discount

(natawa ako ng konti at inaantay ang punchline ni kuya manong pero hindi naganap iyon)

Carla: Ha? Seryoso?

Remar Silva:Opo

Carla:Sigurado?

Remar Silva: (huminga ng malalim at parang pagod na makipag-usap)

(muntik ko nang patulan pero mas pinili ko na hindi)

That's so bull. I'm sorry but you could have just told me that it's sembreak or it's a Sunday and I would end the conversation right away without thinking about the excuse you just said. And yes, you just ruined my bus ride. I was affected on how he could've thought of that reason and how he could've thought that I would believe him. That's so lame dear. Good riddance Remar Silva.

It's not that I'm a tightwad. It's not that I want to test if I can pass as a college student at my age. It's my right which I want to exercise. I'm a student. I'm paying for my own tuition fees. Yes I have a job but I'm also a student. And please, if you're making an excuse about something make it believable so as to not question or challenge my intelligence.

When you’re hoping to get away for a few days on a city break, whether it’s with your mates or your loved one, it’s always useful to research your chosen destination first. Knowing the ins and outs of where to go whilst you’re there, what restaurants are good and which should be missed, and what attractions and activities are on offer are just some of the things worth reading up on.

Spending a few days in Newcastle can bring you the best of everything. From relaxation at a local spa to sampling the delights of a gastropub, there’s plenty to see and do so that you don’t get bored. Hotels in Newcastle are plentiful and many are affordable so that you don’t have to break the bank to stay here. Book your accommodation in advance of your visit to make use of excellent online early bird deals.

If you’re travelling with your mates or you enjoy a good bevvy, knowing the good bars to visit is tantamount to a great night out.

Spend your time enjoying the food and drink establishments in the Gate complex over on Newgate Street. Offering a multitude of restaurants, including Nandos, TGIs and Frankie & Bennys, you can enjoy hearty food for reasonable prices. Whilst you’re there, definitely stop in at Sam Jacks– a two floor venue that boasts a built in rodeo bull and on stage Dentists Chair. Visit at the weekend and you’ll guarantee a top quality night in one of the busiest bars in Newcastle.

A popular chain of bars that provide excellent food as well, Browns have recently opened a new branch on Grey Street in the heart of the city centre. Perfect if you’re planning to catch a show at the theatre or if you just want to sample some scrumptious food and a few cocktails, Browns has already grown in popularity with both occasional and frequent visitors.

Immerse yourself in some art whilst enjoying a cold beverage at The Cluny on Lime Street. Set in a converted warehouse, this bar hosts live music regularly as well as housing a gallery towards the back of the venue. It’s a haven for all the artistic types and offers something different from the norm with frequently changing exhibitions for your perusal.

Another new bar worth a mention is Brewdog. With a vast range of bottled and draught beers, it’s an ideal hub if you like to try something new. Two bars, two floors and an absolute must if you’re wandering around the city centre in need of a bevvy.

If you fancy something a little more alternative, Trillians hosts DJ nights on Fridays and Saturdays, live music during the week and metal and rock music on the jukebox. Pretty much the only rock bar left in Newcastle, it’s a must for any headbanger.

Whatever your drinking hole of choice, Newcastle will surely provide. From local haunts supplying top quality beer and ale, to funky bars offering late night dancing, there’s something for anyone in this thriving city.

the painting that made him famous

We all know Juan Luna - that guy who painted the famous "Spoliarium" back when we were not born yet, not even our parents nor our grandparents I guess. If you haven't heard about it well the actual painting is inside the National Museum in Manila City. Last October 20, 2012, I was invited for the annual Luna Walk. I have learned that it is the 155th birth anniversary of the most famous painter in the country - Juan Luna.

as much as I want to join every year... this might be the last :(

The Luna Walk was first initiated by Professor Eric Zerrudo and his graduate students from University of Santo Tomas in 2003 to celebrate Juan Luna's birthday (October 23). The tour was literally a "walk" wherein they go to different spots in Manila City that served as an important part of Juan Luna's life. After some years, GSIS Museum took over the said tour and added some spots in addition to the previous ones. They also reduced the "walk" part by gathering some vehicles to ease that part. It was the first time I heard about it. It was the first time I got an official invite. And if I heard it right, it might be the last Luna Walk of its kind just because of the rumors that the GSIS Museum and almost all of its collections will be transferred to the National Museum (a heavy sigh). A little backgrounder...

I heard about the GSIS Museo ng Sining back in College. We needed to find a museum, gallery or art space that we could apply our knowledge and experience on what we have been studying for 3 years in the On-the-job training program. We all wanted to apply what we learned about Arts Management, Curatorship and Collections Management - yeah, I was that nerd. Well that was in 2003. My group scouted the Manila area and found ourselves in the GSIS Main Office in Pasay (just a stone throw's away from the Senate). I didn't realize that such government agency would have its own museum. Apparently, Winston Garcia (the former president and general manager of the agency) is really passionate about culture and the arts. I thought that the collection would include the past machines and equipment that was used in GSIS before and after the war but I was so amazed on its wide collection of artworks in all media and forms. Sculpture, Painting, Photography to name a few. It was vast. And we were surprised when the museum manager directed us to the infamous painting "The Parisian Life" by Juan Luna. We were in awe on how the museum dedicated a room just for this piece. There were so much controversy on the amount that have been paid just to purchase the painting in an auction - roughly about 46 million pesos. The GSIS pensioners flocked outside the agency and protested on how could they bought a certain painting. Well, we can't blame them 'coz 46 million pesos is really a huge amount of money. To end the story, we weren't able to get the job but got to see the painting. The painting that brought numerous reactions from all walks of life.

Fast forward 2008, I went into the teaching profession and got an official invite from the GSIS Museum to participate in a seminar/workshop for Art teachers and some selected students. I really love to go to such activities because my heart is really into the Arts. And for 4 years now, I have been a loyal participant in almost all of their symposia, workshops, seminars and the like. What I love most about them is that all of that were for free and with refreshments (I especially love the ensaymada and palabok snacks :)

Moving on, I got the official invite for the 2-day seminar/walk. I was so glad that it suited my schedule perfectly - Friday afternoon and the whole day of Saturday. I also got the permission to bring in Jay with me on the second day. The first day was a very concise backgrounder on Juan Luna. The talk was entitled "Parisian Life: Reflections on the Images of Ariston Bautista Lin, Jose Rizal and Juan Luna". Later on, I would learn that those three personas were very important in our rich history and even in the "Parisian Life" painting. The speakers were great especially Professor Santiago Albano Pilar from the University of the Philippines-College of Fine Arts (also an author of a book about Juan Luna) and Ms. Gemma Cruz-Araneta who is the Chairperson of the Heritage Conservation Society (and also grew up with the painting on the house of her stepdad). They unveiled a very important hero in the name of Dr. Ariston Bautista Lin who served as a major financier and supported the movement against the Spanish regime back then. They established the close relationship between the three heroes that were the rockstars of the talk.

Prof. Pilar

Ms.Gemma Cruz-Araneta

On the second day, we were asked to be at the GSIS Museum at exactly 7 a.m. They handed out our seminar/walk kits, some snacks and our shirts - all for free as always. We gathered outside the museum and got some important reminders from the coordinators. There were 5 vehicles that were utilized that day. We didn't know each other but we were all there to experience the Luna Walk for the first time.

First stop was the Bahay Nakpil-Bautista in Quiapo. It was the house where the "Parisian Life" painting was originally housed. The house is located in A. Bautista street in Quiapo. You can go to the Quiapo church, cross the road via the underpass and look for the LBC branch along the road and then make a right turn on the street adjacent to it and you would find the house with a Philippine flag and a KKK flag - that's it. It was a century-old house in the heart of Quiapo. There are no fees but there is a donation box somewhere there. We had a brief tour and a talk from a history buff Professor Xiao Chua (you can catch him on "The Bottomline with Boy Abunda on Saturdays). He showed us where the original room and wall where the painting was hung for the longest time until the descendants decided to sell the painting in an auction in Hong Kong.

Next stop was the National Museum. We went there to see and learn more about the most famous work of Juan Luna - the "Spoliarium". If you haven't been to the museum and haven't seen the artwork then you might wanna go there and learn more about your own heritage as a Filipino as depicted in the artworks. As I was always telling my students, the painting is huge. Much bigger than their classroom (and the oohhhs and aahhhs will go on for a minute as I was describing how big it is). It was that grand. We all know that it won a gold medal in Exposicion Nacional de Bellas Artes in Madrid, Spain in 1884. He was 27 years old back then (and I am 28 and what have I done THAT great? hmmm...). It shows a scene where the dead gladiators were dragged for their families to collect them (think about Gladiator the movie). We all have our own interpretations on what the piece might be all about but who knows what Juan Luna was thinking right? Whether it's about depicting a gladiator scene or the symbolism of how the Filipinos were dragged by the Spaniards into the "darkness" at the end of the day it is how Juan Luna and the Philippines were recognized by the world from the piece (they thought that Filipinos were "uncivilized" and "unschooled" in their own standards). We went to other areas where his other paintings were displayed. Just a little reminder - no flash photography inside the museum 'coz you know why right? :)

Next was the Juan Luna Monument. I was glad to know that he has his own monument but the question I have was where? And then we went across the street to what they call the "Roundtable" near an entrance to the Intramuros and the Pamantasan ng Lungson ng Maynila. The monument is there standing on the yield part. I have been in that same place a few times and never did I know that it was Luna (I thought it was another Rizal). We offered some flowers there and greeted him a happy birthday - ok it was just me.

my weapon of choice - paint palette and brush!

And then we went to San Agustin Museum just beside the San Agustin church. I was puzzled on why we were there and then I heard from someone that an ossuary/crypt is there inside that houses the remains (bones actually because his original resting place was at Hong Kong) of Juan Luna. We prayed silently and offered some flowers on the 76th hole. Yes, he was with a number. It was so sad to hear that no efforts have been made by the former administrations for his remains to be exiled for a burial fitted for a hero. It was ironic how he is resting beside the Spanish friars and the pensionados.

Next was the Metropolitan Museum or The Met at Roxas Boulevard. It's just right beside the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Our purpose there was to visit Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo's paintings that were in a special room inside the museum (and then you learned about the person behind the famous photography haven in Quiapo). They were friends and they shared so much about each other's works and ideals on their beloved country. Cameras and taking photos are not allowed inside the museum (but I took some and I was reprimanded and was even told that there are lotsa CCTVs around the museum). We were also given the chance to tour on the basement where the gold collection of our ancestors were housed.

it was tiny and so am I

Last stop was the GSIS Museo ng Sining. They served us a buffet (and yummy) lunch and gave us time to relax a bit and chat with other participants. After an hour we were back at the Luna room and the talk of Professor Xiao went on for almost 3 hours. He started with Luna's childhood and up until he died to the day when the infamous "Parisian Life" painting was bought by the GSIS. I learned so much about Luna and our own heritage in his talk. I learned that he was really a "serious" type of guy and almost all of his photos are dark. And that he is really good friends with Jose Rizal after Rizal learned about his winning in the competition in Madrid. I learned that they were also human beings that were also capable of doing some funny stuff (as shown on some photos where they were goofing around with some friends). I learned about the murder of his wife and his mother-in-law and the rumors behind it (you should buy me a coffee or a beer before i tell you the "secret" **winks**). And then I learned about the price of our heritage. Yes, the price.

Where is Rizal? No not the guy on the upper left.
Rizal was the one playing the flute

acting like drunkards

the first photo I saw where Rizal is smiling - ang bongga lang ng cheekbones!

"The painting that was bought for 46 million pesos" was the known title of the painting rather than the "Parisian Life". It was the controversy that sparked the interest of the people on the said piece. Before that, we only know Juan Luna for his Spoliarium. And if you are going to ask them why they bought it they would just tell you that money is not an object when it comes to our own heritage. So let us see on how important this painting in our lives. The painting shows coffee shop wherein some men (three men) were at the far left side of the cafe and were engaging in a conversation. On the foreground you will see a young lady sitting in a weird position and it seems like she was with someone because of the cups on the table, an overcoat on the bench and the hat on top of it. As simple as that. So to get to the point, there are 3 interpretations that are prevalent up to now. The first one is the literal translation. There is a young lady who seemed to be an escort or a prostitute accompanied by a man. That's it. The second interpretation was very personal to Luna. They consider the young lady as Luna's wife with someone other than her husband (third party thingy). Well that was the time when the murder of the wife had happened. And the last interpretation by the UP College of Fine Arts students (dunno what year it was) was the most plausible according to almost all of the speakers.

If you have been schooled to be a visual artist (just like Juan Luna) you would practically study about anatomy and the basic things such as fundamentals on right positions. You wouldn't put a window post on top of someone's head. You wouldn't put your subject into a position wherein it looks uncomfortable (unless it's purposely done). Is Juan Luna just a deviant in doing such things or is he really making an underlying statement for the piece. Look at the newspaper, the corner of the table, the chair and the overcoat. Look on how they are pointing to the lady. Look at the window post which is black and the choker of the lady which is black (looks like she's being strangled eh?). Look at the weird position of the lady. And look at the three men. According to the third interpretation, the lady is our motherland - the Philippines but in an inverted way (sidewards). The strangling somewhat felt like how the state of the country at that time with the Spaniards ruling over it. The pointed stuff were somewhat a call to focus on the motherland to free it from being strangled. And the three men were Juan Luna, Dr. Ariston Bautista Lin and Jose Rizal (at his back) talking about how to free their beloved country. Whew! Nice interpretations from the youngsters eh? So how about you? Which of the three are you leaning to? Or do you have your own interpretations?

I felt like a little more interested about the history. I felt like engaging in that 1 and 1/2 days of in-your-face chismis about the lives and works of our heroes sparked that very little interest in me to learn more about history. Or maybe I can do it backwards just like how they do it - interpreting the painting first before learning about the story behind it. It's more fun right?

Manila Yacht Club

We ended the day with a walk (literally) inside the CCP ground up to the Roxas Blvd up to the Robinson's Manila mall. That was far but we didn't notice it because we were so engrossed in what had happened that day.

Special thanks to Ricky Ramos for the undying effort to contact me everytime. And good job to all the staff and employees in the museum! Let's hope and pray that the GSIS Museum will not be transferred anywhere.

GSIS Museo ng Sining
Level 2, Core I GSIS Building,
Financial Center, Pasay City
museum@gsis.gov.ph
(02) 859.0395
0929.171.4091

Tuesdays-Saturdays
9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION

you can take the orange jeepney from Vito Cruz or the free GSIS shuttle bus from Gil Puyat.

Miyerkules ng tanghali. Pauwi na sana ako nang ipatawag sa opisina ng head teacher ng MAPEH.

Head Teacher: Carla, sa Camp Aguinaldo ka mag-report bukas. Mag-umpire ka ng DistrictMeet Lawn Tennis ng Elementary.

Carla: Bukas na sir? As in bukas?

Head Teacher: Oo bakit?

Carla: Wala lang, biglaan lang po. Sinu-sino kami dun sir?

Head Teacher: Kayo-kayo pa rin.

Carla: Ah ok. Sige po.

Head Teacher: 8 a.m. dapat andun ka na. Saka 2 days yun ha.

Carla: *buntong-hininga*

Hindi naman sa ayaw ko. Hindi lang ako handa. Alam mo 'yun?

Pangatlong taon ko na ito. Hindi ko alam kung bakit pero palagi akong ipinapadala para maging linesman/scorer sa District meet ng Lawn Tennis. Ito ay 'yung paglalaban-laban ng mga atletang bagets sa pampublikong paaralan ng buong Quezon City (nanalo na sila sa iba't ibang pagtatagpo kalaban ang ibang eskwelahan sa distrito nila). Bale sila na ang mga mahuhusay sa buong lungsod. Noong mga nakaraang taon eh tamang scorer/linesman o alalay ang tanging gawain ko so hindi na ako kinabahan dahil alam ko na ang mga mangyayari. Ang inisip ko lang ay ang biyahe ko patungo sa venue.

Huwebes. 6:00 a.m. Ang O.A. ko lang. 8:00 a.m. ang call time pero alas-sais pa lang ng umaga eh papaalis na ako ng bahay. Feeling ko pa nga eh late ako. Hindi ako nahirapan sa paggising dahil alas kuwatro y medya ako nagigising araw-araw dahil alas sais empunto ang official time ko. At oo, may nagtuturo na nang ganung oras. 'Yan din ang gumimbal sa akin dati. At oo, hanggang alas dose lang ng tanghali ang klase ko at kapag wala akong klase sa aking MA class eh diretso uwi at borlogs na ako - bawi tulog.

Kinukuha ko lang ng 12 minutes ang pagpasok sa trabaho ko araw-araw. 5 minutong lakad hanggang kanto namin, 2 minutong sakay sa jeep (bago pa ako makabayad at makuha ang sukli eh bababa na ako) at 5 minutong sakay sa tricycle. 16 pesos ang pamasahe. Naiiba lamang ang routine kapag umuulan o kung may strike ang mga jeep.

Binalak ko na makisabay sa utol ko na nagta-trabaho sa Makati para makalibre sa pamasahe at para umiwas sa pakikibaka sa biyahe pero paggising ko eh saktong hindi daw siya papasok dahil may aasikasuhin daw siya - bihira lang siyang hindi pumasok at nasakto pa na sa araw na makikisabay ako.

Lumabas ako ng bahay. 6:00 a.m. Nilakad ang daan hanggang sa kanto namin. Sumakay ng jeep papuntang EDSA. Pagdating ng EDSA-Cloverleaf nag-antay ako ng jeep/bus papuntang MRT. Nag-antay ng bahagya. Ang hirap sumakay. Hanggang sa may nakitang aircon jeepney na may nakapaskil na "Libreng Sakay". Pinara. Tumigil. Sumakay.

Libreng Sakay - UNTV/Ang Dating Daan

Ang Libreng Sakay na ito pala ay proyekto ng UNTV at Ang Dating Daan. Mahusay! Ngayon ko lamang narinig at nakita ang hangarin na ganito. Ni hindi ko naririnig sa news o nakikita sa radyo. Tahimik na kumikilos pero epektibo. Ang mga tao nagbabayad pa, hindi napansin ang nakapaskil na "Libreng Sakay". Maganda at masarap sa pakiramdam na nasa loob ako ng aircon na jeep na 'yun. Napansin ko pa na talagang nag-aantay ng pasahero si manong driver at mga estudyante ang madalas na nag-aabang sa kanya. Natunugan na ang pagdating niya. Walang patumanggang pasasalamat ang natatanggap ni manong driver kada may bumababa. Mayroon din namang nagmamadali na at malamang eh nakalimutan na magpasalamat. Ang ruta ni manong ay MCU-Monumento - SM-MRT.

Good Job manong driver!

Muli, salamat manong driver. Salamat sa UNTV. Salamat Ang Dating Daan. At kung si Brother Eli Soriano man ang utak sa likod nito eh mabuhay po kayo. At nawa'y maging ehemplo sa ibang grupo.

6:40 a.m. Nasa EDSA at paanan ng hagdan paakyat ng MRT-North Avenue station. Nakalimutan na box office hit nga pala ang pila dito kapag ganung oras. Wala akong stored value chorva. Chineck ng guwardiya ang mga bitbit. Pumila. Tumayo. Bahagyang gumalaw ng sampung pulgada. Pumila. Tumayo. Bahagyang gumalaw ng sampung pulgada. Repeat in same order.

Ni hindi ko alam kung paano ako nakaakyat sa hagdan at kung paano ako nakabili ng ticket. At akala ko ay hanggang doon na lang ang pasakit at pahirap. May pila rin pala ang pagpasok sa tren. Whew! Hindi pa ako nakakarating sa patutunguhan ko eh amoy tanghali na ako. Ang napansin ko lang ay tahimik ang mga nakapila. Marahil ay dahil sa mga nakasalpak sa mga tenga ng mga tao. Walang nagkkwentuhan. Walang malikot. Walang maharot. Tama rin 'yun para kung may mandurukot man eh maramdaman agad - well hindi rin pala mararamdaman agad 'yun.

7:05 a.m. Nasa loob ng tren. Nakatayo. Naisip ko kung gaano kadali ang biyahe ko araw-araw. Kung gaano kainam ang pagiging malapit ko sa trabaho ko. At bigla ko naisip ang mga co-teachers ko na taga Cavite, Bulacan , etc. na umuuwi araw-araw. At kung ma-late pa ako eh ewan ko na lang. In fairness naman sa akin eh I was never late - NEVER - kahit sa lahat nang naging trabaho ko dati. O.C. ako sa oras. Ayoko nang nale-late.

Kada istasyon eh pakapal nang pakapal ang mga tao. Mapapansin na ang mga bagon ng tren na nakalaan sa mga babae ay hindi disiplinado. Hindi pa nakakababa ang mga pasahero eh ipinipilit na nila na ipasok ang mga katawan nila. Mas gusto ko pang umupo/tumayo sa bagon ng tren na para sa mga lalake. Walang maaarte. Wala ring suwapang. Naalala ko dati, nakaumang pa lamang ako nang pagtayo eh biglang may bag na agad na nakapuwesto sa espasyo na inurungan ko. May nag-save na agad ng upuan. Ang bilis lang. Grabe.

7:22 a.m. Santolan station. And istasyon na malapit sa Camp Aguinaldo - ang venue. Nilakad ang sidewalk sa labas ng Camp Crame. Biglang ginutom. Naghanap ng malapit na fastfood. Nakita si Jollibee. Sausage and egg pandesal at pineapple juice. Sakto. Tumawid ng kalye. Sumakay ng jeep papuntang Gate 1 ng Camp Aguinaldo - ang gate na pwedeng pasukan ng mga pedestrian.

8:02 a.m. Matapos magalakad ng ilang minuto sa loob ng kampo ay nakarating na sa tennis court. Kinilabutan nang makita ang oras - O.C. nga talaga ako sa oras. Ang ending, ako pa lang ang andun. Wala pa ang mga officials at wala pa rin ang mga manlalaro.

8:30 a.m. Nagsimula nang dumating ang mga manlalaro, magulang, coach at mga officials. Biglang tinawag ng tournament manager.

Tournament Manager: Carla, ikaw na humawak ng Girls.
Carla: Po?
Tournament Manager: Ikaw sa Singles A, Singles B at Doubles ng Girls.
Carla: Eh sir...
Tournament Manager: Oh eto na ang mga gamit, tawagin mo na ang mga coach para magbunutan na kayo.
Carla: *buntong-hininga*

8:45 a.m. Dalawa pa lang kaming official sa tennis. Tatlo ang tournament manager na mga principal ng elementary schools. Wala nang magawa. Napasubo na. Humingi ng tulong sa isang official pero inasar pa ako na kaya ko na daw mag-isa.

Kinabahan. Gustong umuwi at bumalik na lamang sa eskwelahan para magturo. Hindi ako P.E. teacher. Nagkataon lamang na ang Arts ay kabilang sa subject na MAPEH. Ang daming rason pero andito na ako. Gusto kong sumigaw. Nakakahiya naman. Gustong magpatulong sa mga coaches. Bawal naman.

9:00 a.m. Nakagawa na ng schedule of games. Nagbunutan na ang mga coaches. Nag warm-up na ang mga bagets. Isang buntong-hininga at isinigaw na "Ready everyone!". Pero sa totoo lang, sila lang ang pinapa-ready ko dahil ako eh hindi pa ready. Nanginginig na umakyat sa upuan ng umpire. Open court. Mainit sa balat ang araw. Wala akong payong. Walang sunblock. Sayang ang Gluta - biglang naisip na hindi pala ako naggu-gluta. Iniayos ang scorecards. Sa totoo lang gusto kong tumakbo ang oras nung mga panahong iyon. O di kaya'y kainin ako ng lupa. Pero wala na akong magagawa. Nakatingin ang lahat - pati ang mga nagmi-meron lamang.

4:00 p.m. Natapos ang araw at nakayanan ang naiatang na responsibilidad sa araw na iyon. Noong unang dalawang laro ay gusto ko na lamang mawala sa paningin ng lahat. Ang dami kong pagkakamali bilang umpire - marunong ako pero iba pala talaga kapag andun ka na sa sitwasyon na iyon. Ibang-iba. Talaga.

Matapos ang dalawang laro ay nagamay ko na ito. Ang yabang ko na. Parang kanina lang eh gusto ko na umuwi at umiyak. Pero nakaraos naman pala ako. Mahusay ang mga bagets. Lalo na ang Grade 2 na si Adeline. Bukod-tangi ko siyang natandaan dahilan sa kanyang ballet tutu - inspired skirt. Ang bongga lang. Pero mahusay ang pitik at pulso ng batang ito. At kakampi pa ang ate niya kaya maganda ang tandem nila. Sila ang champion sa Doubles sa buong Elementary Division ng Quezon City at kakalabanin ang mga private schools. Nawa'y umabot ang magkapatid sa Palarong Pambansa.

Adeline (Grade 2) in a ballet tutu skirt for tennis
champion Doubles team!

Nakakatuwang makita ang mga batang ito na seryoso sa kanilang piniling laro. Mabuhay din ang mga coach at magulang na walang sawang sumusuporta sa kanila.

Stress Drilon

5:00 p.m. Philcoa. Nag-bus galing Cubao. At kung akala ninyo ay tapos na ang araw na iyon ay hindi pa. Unang araw ng klase ko sa MA-Thursday class ko. 5:30 pa naman 'yun. Naisipan muling bisitahin si Jollibee. Coffee float. Solb. Nakita ang batang nagtitinda ng lobo sa labas. Ka-edad niya lamang ang mga manlalaro kanina. Nag-aaral kaya siya?

meron akong lobo...

May bumili ng lobo. Pumasok sa loob ng fastfood. Iniabot ang lobo sa apo. Kumanta ang lolo ng "Meron akong lobo". Naalala ko ang kaibigan kong beki na kinantahan ang pamangkin na walang sawa ang pag-iyak dahil lumipad ang lobo na hawak (tunay na kwento). Si Diego ang lobo - 'yung kaibigan ni Dora. Kinantahan niya ang pamangkin;

Meron akong lobo,

Pangalan niya ay Diego.

'Di ko na nakita,

Pumutok na pala.

Sayang ang pera ko,

Pambili ng lobo.

Sa lalake sana,

Nag-enjoy pa ako.

Lalong umiyak ang bata. Tawa lang kami nang tawa. At lalo pang umiyak ang bata.

When it comes to holidays, everyone's got their favourites. For some there's nothing better than whiling away the days soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, occasionally taking a dip in the sea to cool off and enjoying a spot of snorkelling. Others prefer the thought of waking up in a new destination every day, and being treated to the ultimate luxury onboard a cruise liner. Still more find their perfect break wandering along cobbled streets and soaking up the bright lights of the city.

One of the great things about a package holiday is that all of these experiences can be enjoyed through a tour operator, which not only makes a wide range of destinations more accessible, it also takes the stress out of getting there. When you book package holidays with Thomas Cook or another large-scale tour operator, you get return flights and nightly accommodation included in the price. Where the majority of packages are concerned you'll also get transfers to and from your hotel, and the services of a locally-based travel representative who is on-hand to offer advice and support whenever you need it.

Among the most popular package holiday favourites are the Balearic Islands, the Canaries, Portugal, Greece and Turkey. Other hotspots include the friendly island of Malta, the sun-baked Mediterranean shores of Tunisia and the romantic appeal of Italy. From last-minute escapes to Cyprus and cheap holidays Majorca, there's a fantastic rage of destinations just waiting to be discovered. Of course since package holidays have helped to make destinations more accessible, many long-haul locations have grown in popularity too. Florida, the Caribbean, Thailand, the Maldives, Goa... they're all becoming easier to travel to, which adds to the mesmerising range of travel experiences you can enjoy with a package holiday.

What's next on your holiday wish-list for 2013?

Baguio oh Baguio. Who has never been to Baguio? Well I know some. I even told them that they have to kiss the land once they set foot on the Summer capital of our country. I've been to the city a few times with the family and/or friends and we all end up doing the same thing in same order. All generic trips. My favorite part of the trips would be the ukay-ukay hunt in Hilltop wherein the vendors would only go there during sunrise and sunset - it serves as a street market at daytime. I also love to stay at the Manor Hotel (c/o the aunties and uncles) and feast on their breads - especially the very heavy raisin bread. I love the Strawberry sundae from McDonald's in the city. I also love the sunflowers. I used to paint loads of that when I was younger when I still dunno that it was called then. I love how the cab drivers would give you your change up to the last centavo and they would even refuse to get a tip. Ang galing lang talaga. I love how establishments would dare not install any airconditioning units - even the SM mall. That's what stuck in me when I go to Baguio. It becomes automatic. The spots. The activities. Routine. Same stuff all the time. Still, I look forward in our family trips to Baguio.

And then marx invited me to go to the city on a long weekend. I first met him on our Burot trip this year. I didn't have plans for that dates so I agreed. He solely planned about this trip. I kinda knew what we were going to do but I didn't take the time to "research". That's what I love most about traveling with bloggers, I feel like I am paying them to do the "research" stuff. Tamad lang. We met at Victory Liner Terminal and waited for our 2 a.m. trip on a Friday. I previously purchased tickets for us, 450 pesos for the 7-hour trip. I tried to avail of the student discount but failed (read it here). We arrived at around 8:20 a.m. and went straight to Azalea Residences (marx took care of the hotel - thanks!) via cab for 50 pesos. I was so happy to see a mini kitchen inside the room. The water heater for my coffee and tea was divine. The bed was nice but I don't really like the duvet (in general) so I requested for normal sheets to be used as a blanket and left the heavy duvet to marx which he really loved.

the azalea flowers

Azalea Residences is located on a street just across the Teacher's Camp. Jeepneys are available to get to the downtown. The minimum jeepney fare is 8.50 pesos. At around 9:30 a.m. we went out for breakfast and looked for the jeepney terminal for the Balatoc-bound jeep. We were set to go to the Balatoc Mines (in Itogon, Benguet) to experience first hand how it is to be a miner (hi-ho, hi-ho). To get to the jeepney terminal you need to go to Harrison/SSS and at the Petron station across it is the terminal for the Acupan-Balatoc jeepneys. We paid 25 pesos for the ride and it took us around 40 minutes to get to the site. You need to ask the driver to drop you off at Balatoc mines 'coz there is no signage on the area. We were told to alight on this steep stairway and we needed to get down to reach the gates of the Balatoc Mines.

We were asked by the guards on our purpose and we said that we were there for the tour. They then showed us on how to go to the museum/registration area for the mining tour. I never had any prior experience on the said activity so I don't have any expectations. We were greeted by the museum guides and they let us register. We paid 250 pesos each and they handed us a chapa as our "ticket"/souvenir. Apparently, the chapa is used as your id when you go inside the caves. For the miners, they need to drop it in a certain box and get it everytime they go out of the cave. This ensures everyone's safety. We were also given a hard hat and boots. They have at least 50 pairs so choosing the one that fits perfectly was easy. And off we go to the tour.

go down here

5 1/2 for me

names of the old engineers

my own chapa

With our uncomfortable boots and hard hats on, we started the tour from the railway of the train used for mining with our guide. That was the most exciting part for marx. Too bad that the train wasn't available that day because of engine trouble. We saw some old school mining equipment and the guide explained to us how the process of mining really works. And then we entered the cave. What was remarkable in the said tour was the "anaconda", the drill and the blasting of the dynamite. I wouldn't squeal the "anaconda" part but the drilling was fun and stressful at the same time. They showed us how they drill each hole for the dynamites. And without any warning they just started to drill. The sound and the feeling of vibration of the drill shocked even the most sleepy nerve we had. And they even let us try to drill our own holes. Imagine our terror on holding the huge device. But the best part for me is the dynamite-blasting. After they showed us how to put the dynamites on the holes they told us that they would blast a single one (you needed a lot in a real setting). Our guide told us that it was time for them to blast it. We were kinda thinking that she was just bluffing but after she walked faster we believed her. And then it blasted without a warning! That one single BOOM sound echoed the whole cave. It felt like we were in a top-of-the-line dolby digital cinema thing. It was the bomb! Literally!

We went back to the museum/registration area still in shock of what we just experienced. We might paid a hefty amount for the tour but I tell you, it's worth the price. They gave us certificates and showed us how the real miners remove their own boots without touching it - of course they have a device for it.

pa-picture na lang, sira eh

it really shocked my whole being after I tried drilling

ate guide showing us how to put dynamites on the holes

Kuya Dynamite after the blasting. Parang zombie lang ang peg

photo by marx
removing the boots without even touching it

Going back to Baguio City from Itogon, you need to wait for the jeepneys that are passing by outside the Balatoc Mines' premises. Those jeepneys are quite a few so it was full when they reached the area. Someone told us to go to the basketball court to wait for jeepneys and so we did. We hopped on the first one and realized that it was full already (no toploading) so we stayed at the middle part of the jeep and we sat on a squat position until such time that some passengers unloaded. We still paid 25 pesos for the ride.

We went to Session Road for our super late lunch at around 1:30 p.m. We were looking for this clandestine restaurant - Oh My Gulay! I've never heard of that (I told you, my Baguio trips are generic). It is located on the top floor of the La Azotea Building. We had a hard time looking for it because marketing and promotion are foreign to them. Up until we reached the top floor we asked a server of the reason, the owner (Kidlat Tahimik a renowned independent film maker/director) just wanted the place to be that way - a secret place.

First look. It felt like I was inside a gallery/museum. The aesthetic appeal, the music, and the food are all connected with each other. All the bits and pieces inside it are truly a work of art. There are also some pieces that were for sale at that time. Some announcements on shows, events, performances, exhibits and other artsy stuff were posted on one corner.

We were famished so we ordered right away and realized that it is a vegetarian restaurant. We had Oh My Gulay Rice (140 pesos), Anak ng Putanesca (130 pesos), Limonada (75 pesos) and Dayap Iced Tea (75 pesos).

The servings were huge. You can smell and taste the freshness of the herbs and all the ingredients. I get to taste everything and I loved the lemonade. The food are nice but not that remarkable. Actually I forgot how it tasted. It just felt that it tasted all the same. You are actually paying for the experience. And it was such a nice place to chill - literally.

blogger with a broken chinelas

Limonada (75 pesos)

Dayap Iced Tea (75 pesos)

Anak ng Putanesca (130 pesos)

Oh my Gulay Rice (140 pesos)

four levels

the kitchen

crazy cut tiles

shows, events, performances

havaianas vs. rambo

We went back to the hotel. Took a quick shower and nap and then woke up hungry again. We took a jeepney to downtown (8.50 pesos) and went to Burnham Park not to ride a boat or bike but to shop at flea markets and ukay-ukay.

Afterwards, we went to Volante restaurant. Again, it was my first time here. Pizza and Baguio for me and my family was always at Don Henrico's. It is located along Session Road. I've seen it before but never had the chance to try it. We had 6" 4 Cheese pizza (88 pesos), French fries (60 pesos) and a Platter of grilled chicken, pasta, french fries and a pizza (it comes with a free drink and I think it's about 150 ++ pesos). I love their pizza and chicken. I love the bistro feel of the resto. It felt nostalgic. We looked for a bar afterwards and boozed the night away. We went back to hotel at around 2 a.m.

ukay ukay

6" 4 cheese pizza (88 pesos)

Grilled chicken platter (150 ++ ata, not sure)

French fries (60 pesos)

Exactly 24 hours with marx. No pretentions. No qualms. What about the next 24 hours?

We woke up with a hang over. Oh no, I wish that was the case to let us both just stay in bed. After our first 24 hours in the City of Pines, the plan (according to marx) was to check out the waterfalls in Camp 6. First of all I haven't heard of a waterfalls in the area (except for some along Marcos Highway/Kennon Road - yung mga agos ng tubig sa rocks, feeling ko yun na yung "falls"). Second, where in the world is Camp 6? Well if you haven't read about it yet, I didn't include myself (intentionally) in the "planning" process of this trip. All I know is that me and marx were going to Baguio then head straight to La Union.

We had some coffee and cup noodles for breakfast and packed our bags. We checked out early 'coz we thought that it would take time to trek and reach the waterfalls. The staff of Azalea Residences were so kind enough to safekeep our stuff while we were out. From the hotel, we took a jeepney (8.50 pesos) to get to Jollibee at T.Claudio street corner Harrison road (in between Session Road and the Burnham park). We were looking for the jeep with the signboard "Camp 6". We waited for sometime for it to arrive and waited a few more for it to be full. We paid 17 pesos for the ride and took the familiar road to Kennon Road. We constantly remind the driver that we are going to the Hydro Falls. After almost 40 minutes, we were dropped off at a small waiting shed, he told us to cross the hanging bridge to get to the other side. Just keep in mind that when you see the famous Lion's head, then you're near the area. We did what manong driver said and followed our instincts in looking for the trail.

shot by marx

We passed by some houses. And then a basketball court. And then a road block (parang Amazing Race lang ang peg). We were hindered by a goat, yes, a goat. We were thinking on how to cross over it but then that would be scary. What if it's pregnant, it would think that we are enemies. Overacting. And then I called a boy who was playing on the basketball court, we asked him to make way for us by ~~asking the goat to leave~~ holding the goat so it won't block the way. He did and we thanked him but forgot to ask where the Hydro falls is.

roadblock goatie

eh kung ganito ba naman ang buong trail...

We moved on. Followed our instincts again (oh well, sige instinct pala ni marx). We just followed a path that seemed to look like what people use. And then that path ended. There was no way but to go down the "hill" (again, pardon my mountaineering stuff language) and cross the stream with big rocks. We thought that it was just a small stretch. But wait there's more!

The happy trail ended and the endless rocks went on for the rest of the journey. Two things on my mind; first was where is the falls? are we actually moving closer? I can't hear it, and second, the rocks were awesomely awesome. It was rocks-water and then water with rocks and then rocks again. I'm super impatient but there's no way but to move forward.

ano na marx? san na tayo?

I teach PE (but Arts is my forte) but I am so lampa. I am so careless that bruises and scratches are very normal thing for me. Don't get me wrong, I was not scared that I might fall and die instantly but I hate the idea of the long agony just to see that dang waterfalls (palusot pa).

bato... ginusto mo mag-dress ha!
shot by marx

more bato...
shot by marx

more and more bato...
shot by marx

So I am not a quitter nor I am the type who pushes myself to the limits. I am so lazy that I just want the perfect balance of adventure and comfort. And as we were getting near (still not knowing where the heck it was) I slipped and the rocks solidly hit my bum. I was worried about my camera (salamat sa dry bag) but Marx was worried about me - he asked me if I was okay. Of course I am not okay but I stood up (agad-agad) and went on. I noticed how marx was constantly looking at me and always checks if I'm still alive after that. We got lost and went back to what seemed like the trail. I was so proud of myself for not complaining. Until we saw the falls. The problem was huge rocks were blocking it. Roadblock # 273, how to cross those rocks.

tatawid pa rin diyan?!
shot by marx

ako ay L-A-M-P-A
sige tawid ka diyan

Marx looked for a way for us. It took us 1 1/2 hours to get to the falls from the Kennon Road. If it weren't for me maybe he would reach it in like 40 minutes. Thoughts running on my mind. How "amazing" is this waterfalls that we are chasing. Is it worth all my effort? And then when I saw it, I sat down. Quietly. It was beautiful. The two levels were so high and just hearing the sound felt so nice. I surrendered and put everything behind me. Even my bum wasn't complaining anymore.

just in awe
shot by marx

Hydro Falls

After sucking it all up (it - stillness of the scene) a rush immediately came into me - I need to test the waters. I know it would be cold but who cares? I sunbathed for 1 1/2 hours while trekking (with no sunblock) so a dip can be a very refreshing one. And so I did. It was cold and deep. The pressure from the water was so strong that I was immediately pushed away after just a few meters of swim.

shot by marx

I have just one wish - people, please do bring your trash with you. I saw some shampoo sachets, chips, broken glass of beers and some other stuff. Just a very sad scene.

Going back, I was hoping that everything will be easier and faster. We've done the hardest part anyway. But then, when we were crossing this huge rock and I was doing my i-know-how-to-cross-this-thing move, I fell. With my hands losing its grip on the rock I did fall again. Tsk tsk tsk. I was laughing my shame away. Good thing I fell in the water. It was deep by the way. But We moved on. No turning back. And after seeing the goat again we were ecstatic. We did it! With both of us alive - well no doubt for him.

And then we have to wait for a Baguio city-bound jeep on the highway. We waited for a few minutes and thought of hitchhiking with me doing the sign. And then the jeepney came. There was a bench in the middle so we decided to sit there. The people were insisting for me to sit on the side but I told them that I was wet. They won. I sat between two women and when we arrived at the city we were all wet (told yah...). We paid 17 pesos for the trip.

take note of the shed on the right side

wet after I fell twice

We were HUNGRY and went to Good Taste Restaurant. I haven't heard of that before and thanks to marx for introducing it to me. It is located at # 8 Lapu-Lapu street. Just behind the Baguio Center Mall. Fried rice for 65 pesos (for 2), Chopsuey for 115 pesos and oh, the Buttered Chicken for 150 pesos (half). The food was yummy and for its price it surely is a hit. The servings were huge and it even sufficed for our dinner.

Fried rice- 65 pesos

Chopsuey - 115 pesos

Buttered chicken - 150 pesos (half)

It isn't my first time to be in the city. But everything me and marx did was so refreshing and it sets the tone of my future trips. Either first time or not, I want to see each place way beyond its "famous spot" or the must-go places.

a special shout out to marx. salamat. lalo na sa nakaw photos ko. mang-uumit lang :)

The first time I did surfing was in Baler just May this year. It was such a very fulfilling one. I did make a stand on the board on my first attempt. After that, all I could think of was surfing on my own - without the help of an instructor. I thought that the "skills" I acquired in my very first attempt would qualify me to proceed to the next level. And boy I thought it was just that easy...

After our 2-day stint in Baguio (Balatoc mines and Hydro falls), me and marx went straight to La Union. What we did was we went to the bus terminal near the SM Baguio mall and looked for buses that will pass by San Juan in La Union. We get to ride the non-AC/Abra-bound bus and paid 98 pesos. It took us almost 2 hours (with amazing sunset view from the window side) to reach the town of San Juan. First thing in mind was to look for a very decent place to stay for the night. It was almost 8:00 p.m. and we didn't know that there was an event at that time - the Surfing Break 2012. With that, all of the resorts were already fully booked. It was really hard to look for one (especially when it's way past dinner and we were famished) and just as we were about to give up (much more than me giving up - I am impatient) we saw Hillside View Apartments. It is located along the main road and not beach front (at that time believe me, I would ask anyone to allow us to stay in their homes). We asked the owner if there's ANY room for the night and she gave us a 500-peso apartment. It was a 2-bedroom unit with an AC and Fan room which we get to share with a couple. We were assigned in the Fan room (the AC room was quoted at 1,200 pesos) and the couple on the AC room. The unit was more than we imagined. A living area with TV set, dining area with fridge and cooking equipment and a bathroom. We get to share everything with the couple but it was fine because they were out the whole day (maarte pa ba sa 500 pesos?).

After a few instructions from the owner and a little chat with the couple (who were about to call it a day) we head straight to the kitchen to reheat our take out food from the Good Taste Restaurant in Baguio. We then went out to check the night life on the beach. And because it was Surfing Break we expected that there will be lotsa warm bodies around. And I was right. It was a ~~street~~ beach party on the highest level. Beach, beer and rock and roll.

We went furhter and looked for a nice place to chill and have a couple of beers. We went to the San Juan Surf Resort and we perfectly loved the chill vibe of the resort. We had some beers and stories to share. We ended up drinking until the bar didn't want to serve any drinks anymore and their toilets were closed - alam na.

fail

We dedicated the last day of our duo trip on surfing. I had my surfing debut in Baler while marx had prior surfing experience in Bagasbas and Baler too. And because we were yearning for more challenge (at mayabang lang) we rented a surf board. The board alone without an instructor. We paid 200 pesos/hour for the board rental. The weather was gloomy and I was wishing the sun was shining just to get me into the groove. Marx went in first and I saw him paddle away. I was looking out for him and check if he can do it. And after an hour he went back at me. He didn't get to stand. And now I was doomed. I am a self-confessed lampa and although my prior experience in Baler revealed that I am a good in balancing, paddling is a very different genre - it requires much more power and endurance.

It was my turn. I went with my yellow board and never looked back. Paddling my way. Looking for the perfect swell. Positioned myself way too far from the instructor-student area. I was with the pros. And so it went on. Paddled. Swell. Stood up. Went down. Paddled. Swell. Almost stood up. Fell. That same pattern everytime. I was so trying not to be frustrated but the impatient me was shouting that I hate it. I hate being there surrounded by all these great people. I was constantly checking the time. I didn't care about the time left but I was checking how much time it needs for me to throw a tantrum - to whom, ewan ko.

I didn't give up. The pros around were wishing me well. And then I talked to myself. Just one long ride. Please. Just one. But that didn't happen. I spent almost an hour trying and trying to make that ride. I was trying to be cheerful but I was not. I was mad and furious. And then after a while I realized that hey, it will be okay. And that IT IS okay to fail sometimes. That the next ride will be more meaningful. And that there is no other way but to move on. Lesson learned - ~~hire an instructor next time~~ it's okay to fail... sometimes. I need a revenge surf soon (may ganun?)

shot by marx

shot by marx
mad and furious

shot by marx
move on agad

We went to San Fernando, La Union via jeepney (10 pesos) and hopped on a Partas bus for our almost 7-hour trip back to Manila (400 pesos? I really forgot about the fare because of this incident).

Again, thank you marx for this trip and here's hoping to travel with you again (ikaw ulit sa IT ;p)

that chocolate covered pretzel guy

I don't call out my students on their first names. It's hard for me to distinguish the John Paul's from the Mark Joseph's and the Joshua's. Even harder to differentiate the Michelle's from the Maria's and the Jolina's. I am so used to calling them by their surnames. But then it would also be hard to classify the Reyes' from the Dela Cruz's and the Santos' (those students can form a new section with all of them bearing the same last names). With that, it will be easier to have a very unique name if you have a common surname or a generic name with that "unfamiliar" surname.

The facial features of a typical teener can be tricky. Approximately, I get to teach and interact with 500 students per year. I'm sorry but I really don't remember each one of them through face or name. It's either you are the bully or the geeky one who answers every question even before I ask them to qualify in my memory bank. Forgive me but it's that difficult. Mediocrity has no face.

Last school year I handled 4th year students and I never get to see them after they graduated. I don't usually add my students on my personal FB account so I don't get updates on their whereabouts. Two weekends ago while inside a drugstore (I was there to buy some lozenges for my itchy throat) I was struck when I saw a familiar mascot character. The famous chocolate covered pretzel was introducing its chocolate drink version. My eyes were stuck on the mascot until someone shouted my name, "Ma'am Carla!". I immediately searched for the person behind the voice and immediately saw a familiar face, It was Vega (her surname), my student last school year. I knew her very well because she was not hesitant to come to me for advice on heart matters during her senior year. She also has this very unique voice that when I asked someone to sing for the whole class she would willingly volunteer herself. She's 19 and apparently the "promotions lady" for the choco drink with the guy on the mascot costume. I looked at her (almost hugged her) and messed her hair up a bit. We both got excited that our shrieks and giggles were heard around the drugstore. She went on with her stories about her ex-boyfriend/classmate and how she didn't get to pursue her college education. At that point I dunno what to feel.

Looking at Vega, I can't help but think if I would be happy or sad for her. Happy because she has her own way of supporting herself. I am actually proud of her for being so independent. I asked about the nature of her job and the pay she receives. She also told me that she is happy where she is right now and that she have plans of pursuing her college degree. The sad part is uncontrollable I guess. I wish further education for all of my students who graduated. I want them to experience how it is to be a college student. The knowledge and wisdom you get inside and outside the classroom are priceless. It is where they get the life skills they needed to "survive" the real world. I wanted Vega to be in school which is difficult in her present situation. I urged her to look for a sponsor or apply for a scholarship to sustain her college education. I told her to not stop pursuing her dreams and to be a good girl (whatever that means). She asked if we could have a souvenir photo with the mascot - I told the guy inside the mascot to not involve themselves in a romantic relationship (very intrusive). I bought some of her items and went on to go with my regular day. But with too much going on in my mind.

I maybe am over analyzing things or maybe that is the essence of my "job" or my "life" in general. I want all of my students to be well with their chosen paths. More than the lectures and activities, it is the hidden curriculum that is more vital. It's not finding the variable x in an Algebra exam, not the velocity of a falling ball and not the rules in playing Volleyball. It's how they value life in general - how they answer the question "What is life for?". Period.

Whether or not I imparted the right knowledge, values or skills that are needed in my course, I would be more happy to see my students doing what they love and unleash their potentials as a human being.

Dramatic I know but that is how I view my "job" or my "life" or both. I can't distinguish one from the other anymore.

blue fades on blue

I was born (but not raised) in the quaint town of Cabangan in Zambales. Both my parents were from that town but they decided to raise their family in Quezon City. But then, almost all of my childhood summer vacations were spent in Zambales with all of my relatives. Fast forward today. People would often ask me how to go to Potipot or Magalawa or Anawangin or the surfing spots in San Felipe and San Narciso all in Zambales. Dumbfounded, I decided to explore Zambales more because ~~of the pressure from other people~~ I just felt the need to. The hardest part is to write a post about it (up until now I haven't written any post on Anawangin and its neighbors even though I've been there a lot of times). So okay...

It was a long weekend when me and the family went home to Zambales to take a breather. During lunch with the cousins and other relatives I asked them pointblank if anyone had been to Magalawa island in Palauig (two towns away from our town). Silence for a few seconds. Apparently, almost all of them have heard about it but never attempted to go. Maybe because it's near. Or maybe because we were just lazy to go to nearby towns. Or maybe we were too occupied in renting huge videoke machines or play tong-its and bingo for leisure. And besides, we've got our own beach a few kilometers away from our place. And then I told everyone that I am planning to go there the next day. They got excited and thought that it was an open trip but then who am I to resist the deal of an all expense paid trip from one of my cousins (my relatives are far more mayaman than I am). So in a matter of minutes, we were all set to go to Magalawa island the next day.

The call time was 5:00 a.m. at my cousin's place to have some breakfast first before leaving. We were a group of 10 on board a pick-up truck (one didn't join us on the island but brought his bike - sumama para mag-bike pauwi... nganaman). They all left their kids on their husbands. I chose to stay at the open part of the truck. The morning breeze was so refreshing. It was a good 50-minute drive from Cabangan to Palauig. We made a left turn at the Veritas Road (look for a waiting shed with "magalawa resort" on it) and traversed on a very very rough road. Good thing our pick-up truck was able to manage the bumps very well.

If you plan to commute, take note that Victory Liner bus is the only company that services the whole province. Their Caloocan terminal has the most number of schedules going to Zambales. There are Iba-bound and Sta.Cruz-bound buses. For a straight trip to Palauig you should catch the Sta.Cruz one (fare is more or less 400 pesos) and tell the driver or the conductor to drop you off at the Veritas Road or just tell them that you are going to Magalawa - alam na nila 'yun. Just remind them when you are in the town of Iba. But if you get to ride the Iba one (fare is more or less 350 pesos)you should alight at the Iba bus terminal and then ride an ordinary bus going to Sta.Cruz and again tell the conductor that you are going to Magalawa. From there, you can ask some tricycle drivers for the rates on getting to Luan port which would be the jump-off point to the island. I heard that they charge 75 pesos per person per way.

We then reached the fishing village at the Luan port. There were loads of trucks loading some fresh seafoods - you can buy some there if you are planning to grill it on the island. We then went to the parking lot for Armada Magalawa Resort. Apparently, my oldest cousin Ate Joy had a classmate with the surname "Armada". We just couldn't confirm yet at that moment if her classmate is related to the owner (or the owner) of the resort. We paid a parking fee of 100 pesos and asked about a boat to the island. They texted the owner and told us to wait for the boat to arrive. But I must say that the port is filthy. I can't even imagine how I did cross the shore to get to the boat. It was that dirty.

ice anyone?

The boat trip to the Armada Magalawa Resort was a good 20 minutes. And by 7:30 a.m. we were early birds on the island. We were immediately greeted by Ate Grace - the owner. Ate Joy immediately asked her if she knew Richie and Ate Grace said that it is her older sister (which arrived later in the afternoon). Then another cousin approached Ate Grace and told her that they were batchmates during highschool - an instant mini-reunion for the Zambales National High School alumnae. It's really a small world after all.

with Ate Grace

There is an entrance fee of 100 pesos each person for daytrippers. Ate Grace also warned us on the strong water current on one area of the island. She also asked us if we would like to have a lunch on the resort for 200 pesos each person - we all agreed. We chose our spot and explored the resort and the island. We first checked the sand quality. It's not cream/ivory/white, as expected, but it is totally not as gray as other Zambales' beach. The sand was also course. The water was not that clear. There were seaweeds and starfishes around. I don't really get excited upon seeing starfishes and I don't even wanna touch them but my playful cousins played with them and let me hold it. I dunno if it's bad for them (malamang) but I did return it right away after the photo ops.

is-key-ri

water is not that clear

good thing I brought this camera - forgot the other one

At around 10:20 a.m. we were told that our early lunch was served and so we went to the restaurant of the resort. They served us Steamed Rice, Chicken Curry, Sinigang na Hipon, Calamares and a soda plus a dessert. The shrimp was the best of the bunch.

After the early lunch, we were set to go home (some of my cousins have commitments in the afternoon). Ate Grace asked us if we would like to ride the balsa and go for a snorkel for free! Well, who are we to turn down that kind of offer. Thank goodness for the alumnae mini-reunion. And I must say that Ate Grace is a hands-on resort owner. Armed with her fab camera, she usually checked on us and took some group photos (which she posted on their facebook account).

cousins (everyone resides in Zambales - sarap)

The ~~free~~ snorkeling was the highlight of the trip. I was so happy to see some of my cousins do well with the snorkel even if it's their first time. I loved the smiles on their faces after each dive. At one point, we removed all the vests and the masks and did swim just like we used to do when we were younger - careless and free. Going back to the resort, we asked the boatmen if we could hang on to the balsa and they obliged.

We can't help but compare the beach from ours (Cabangan town). Or maybe we are just biased. But this trip was special because we went out for a day without the nieces and the nephews and the aunts and the uncles and the husbands. It felt like we were kids once more. Nothing to worry about. No one to interrupt our endless chismis moments for 5 whole hours. Just so wonderful.

Magalawa Island Armada Resort

Palauig, Zambales

0920.948.3303

www.magalawaislandresort.com

hello@magalawaisland.com

Caticlan - Boracay - Caticlan

Taking it slow in Boracay - Hakuna Matata
My happy beach in Boracay - Puka beach

My second trip to Boracay proved two things; first is that one visit can't be enough and second is that the "fees" going in and out of the island skyrocketed in a span of 10 months. My first trip to the most coveted island in the country was 10 months ago via Kalibo (how to get to Boracay via Kalibo), I was with two co-workers back then who were also first-timers. But this time around I was with Jay. We scored roundtrip airfare tickets for 1,100 each. It was my first time at the Caticlan airport. Stepping outside the terminal, one should be ready for the fares and fees to be shelled out.

Caticlan airport to Caticlan Jetty port

Lucky you if your hotel/resort has free land and boat transfer to Boracay but if not, you need to go to the Caticlan Jetty port. A few meters outside the terminal, you would see some tricycles in line going to the port. The standard rate is 50 pesos per tricycle (3 persons maximum) and the travel time is around 5 minutes. You can also walk your way to the port. On the arrival area, turn right and just proceed to the EXIT side for the vehicles. Go straight until you see the main highway of Caticlan and then turn right. Cross the road and then make a left turn on the first left adjacent street (there are plenty of signs so you won't miss it) and just follow the road and at the end of it you will see the Jetty port.

Caticlan Jetty port to Cagban port

Upon arrival at the Caticlan Jetty port you need to ride a boat to get to Boracay. Look out for the three windows for the payments. The standard boat fare is 25 pesos each person. Next window will be the environmental fee of 75 pesos each person (60 pesos for students and senior citizens). The third and last window will be for the terminal fee of 100 pesos each person. There are available boats up to 10 p.m. Should you wish to arrange for later trips don't hesitate to ask the officials inside the terminal beforehand for a special arrangement at a certain cost of course.

Cagban port to White Beach - Station 1, 2 and 3 (or anywhere in that area)

After a boat ride of around 10 minutes, you will reach the Cagban port of Boracay. If you are traveling alone it's better to ride the tricycle and wait for other passengers to fill up. Each passenger will have to pay 20 pesos and you will be dropped off at the station of your choice (the main highway) and you need to walk a few meters to reach the White beach. But if you are in a group you can occupy the whole tricycle (up to 5 persons) and pay 100 pesos for the "special trip" - which covers everyone in the group. The tricycle drivers should drop you off a few meters away from the White beach.

White Beach to Cagban port

There are some tricycle terminals near the beach. These are for "special trip" rides. You have to pay 100 pesos for the whole tricycle and the driver won't be getting passengers anymore. If you choose to pay only 20 pesos per person, you have to walk up to the main road and wait for tricycles. You need to be specific that you are paying for a single seat only and not for the whole ride.

Cagban port to Caticlan Jetty port

Be ready for a few bucks upon arrival at the Cagban port. A boat is about 25 pesos to 30 pesos each person. Then you need to pay a terminal fee of 100 pesos each person. Again, there are available boats up to 10 p.m. Should you wish to arrange for later trips don't hesitate to ask the officials inside the terminal beforehand for a special arrangement at a certain cost.

Caticlan Jetty port to Caticlan airport

Again, you can hire a tricycle going to the airport. This should not be more than 50 pesos per tricycle (3 persons maximum). Or you can walk to the airport. Just go straight to the street leading to the main highway and make a right turn. Cross the road and look for the PCSO LOTTO outlet and make a left turn on adjacent road leading to the airport.

Caticlan airport

Prepare 200 pesos each person for the terminal fee at the airport (if your airfare doesn't include one).

I computed all of the fares and other fees (environmental and terminal) incurred on our trip. Me and Jay shelled out a whopping 1,750 pesos (for the both of us) for all of those that are mentioned above (including a terminal fee of 200 pesos each from the NAIA terminal 3).

Caticlan - Boracay - Caticlan

Taking it slow in Boracay - Hakuna Matata
My happy beach in Boracay - Puka beach

10 months ago Jay couldn't help but be envious upon hearing my stories about my first ever trip to Boracay so I immediately booked a flight for the both of us. We scored a roundtrip airfare ticket for 1,100 pesos each at Caticlan airport. Our flight was delayed for an hour - rather a normal thing nowadays. Last time I found a cheap accommodation for 700 bucks a night at Station 3.5 of the White Beach. I loved the seclusion and the crowd at the station 3.5. It has its own charm that is so appealing to me. The downside of which is that you need to burn a hundred or so calories by cardio workout (read:walking). Good thing is that we both love walking so that wouldn't be much of a problem.

Station 3 crowd

After searching the net for some hotels and resorts on Station 3, I found the Casa Pilar Beach Resort and immediately sent them an email. The reservations officer, Ms.Cheryl, was very helpful in answering all my queries about the resort (check out their rates here). After a few exchanges of emails and after getting the best deal I can get Ms.Cheryl sent me a copy of the resort voucher. I needed to deposit 50% of the full amount which I did and sent a copy to Ms.Cheryl which she acknowledged right away. That was two weeks before our trip.

On the day of our trip, our flight was delayed for an hour (rather a very normal thing nowadays) but we still managed to arrive at the resort a little early for check-in. It was 10:00 a.m. and I handed the front desk lady our voucher. I then asked her if we could probably check-in earlier the allowed time. She checked if the room was ready and then she ushered us to our room. Much to our surprise, we were upgraded to a Deluxe aircon room from our original fan room (probably because the fan rooms were being renovated that time). We were ecstatic! We checked out our room first. There were two beds (single and queen), a TV set (with cable), and a bathroom (with hot shower). We also have our own terrace. What was missing was the free Wi-Fi connection. We were told that you need to pay to get connected. Not a good thing for those who needs to be connected all the time. What I love most about this particular resort, aside from it being in a beach front location, is that you feel in tune with nature. We didn't mind to walk a few meters just to get to our room because of the lush vegetation inside the resort. A swimming pool was not seen which is a relief for it will kill the serenity of the place. We rested for a while and then went out to look for a place to eat.

native huts - Fan room

row of Deluxe rooms

the view right outside the resort

We had some grilled stuff for lunch and went straight to Jonah's located on Station 1 for some shakes. It's one of the reasons why I want to go back to Boracay, to get hold of my favorite shake - the Mango Rhum. Jay didn't like my thing so he ordered Mango Banana shake instead (both are 110 pesos each).

Mango Rhum yum - 110 pesos

alcohol at 1:00 p.m.?

At around 2:00 p.m. we were terribly tired (from eating and lack of sleep). We tried to sleep on the benches on the beach provided by the resort but we needed a place to really "rest". We then went to our room for a quick nap and guess what? We woke up at around 11:00 p.m - same day. Yes, you read it right, 11:00 in the evening. 9 hours of pure sleep. Imagine that, we spent our first day by sleeping. Blame it on the comfortable bed or the early booze but we just did the unthinkable. Moving on, I can go back to sleep after a hot shower but then Jay asked me if I would like to check out the scene outside. I agreed.

Instead of heading to the crowded bars and pubs at Station 2 we opted to go to the further side of the Station 3.5. We actually didn't know what we were looking for at that time - food, booze. And then we saw this quaint grille named Hakuna Matata that serves meals and snacks 24/7. We were enticed by the dining set-up on the shore. We were greeted by a server named Badz. Jay ordered a Pansit Guisado for 50 pesos and I had Nilagang Baka and steamed rice for 85 pesos plus 1.5 liters of coke for 70 pesos. They have a free wi-fi connection so it didn't bore us to wait plus the view was just amazing. Midnight dining on the shore. The verdict? I love the Nilagang Baka. The perfect blend of the soup, the meat and the veggies on a cold night. I finished everything and even asked for a refill of the soup (for free). Jay, on the other hand, didn't enjoy his pansit. And then I asked the server if they serve some booze. He said no but pointed us on a store nearby and suggested that we could stay at their place while having some. Jay bought few cans of my favorite strong beer for 45 pesos each. It was just perfect. I really wanted to catch the sunrise the next morning. Jay's suggestion was to not sleep but that would entail a cycle of sleeping-at-day and staying-up-at-night. At around 2:00 a.m. we called it a day and went back to the resort to ~~nap~~sleep for about 4 hours. Hakuna Matata!

it means no worries, for the rest of the day

my favorite meal for this trip
Nilagang Baka - 85 pesos

I woke up at around 5:30 a.m. Did I tell you that all of the room accommodations include a complimentary breakfast? The restaurant accepts guests as early as 6:00 a.m. We were made to choose from a wide array of breakfast sets. There's Continental, American and Filipino breakfast. There's also a breakfast set for the kids. You can choose from coffee (instant) or tea for your drinks and a choice of a fruit or a fruit shake for dessert. What I enjoyed the most was dining with a view of the early morning Boracay White beach. Lovely.

my American breakfast

Jay's Filipino breakfast

dining with a nice view of the beach

We spent the rest of the morning doing a cardio and endurance workout on the way to the Puka beach (which deserves a separate post). After the grueling workout, we headed to Hakuna Matata (again) for a very late lunch. I got some Sizzling Grilled Liempo for 160 pesos and Jay had some Sizzling Longsilog for 120 pesos and a 1.5 liters coke for 70 pesos. Again, we were more than satisfied to have dined there. Their very reliable wi-fi connection is absolutely a plus.

doble patong liempo! - 160 pesos

Sizzling LongSiLog - 120 pesos

We again took a rest and this time we promised to catch the sunset in Boracay. I've decided to catch the sunset in style - by Paraw Sailing. We scouted for the most reasonable rate offered around the White Beach. With my haggling skills, we got to book the said activity for 500 pesos only - for the both of us. And I must say that Paraw Sailing is one of the best activities for couples and group of friends alike. The sunset view was just lovely. The ride was just perfect. Serenity.

Paraw Sailing - 500 pesos for both of us! quite a steal

"happy" is an understatement

After that activity, we went straight to Jonah's and got some shakes again. And then we went for a foodtrip. Street food that is. We had some isaw for 10 pesos each and the lovely chori burger for 50 pesos. And then we headed to my favorite place to get some booze. I have known of this place on my first trip to the island. I still don't know the name of this quaint place but it is located at the farthest side of Station 3.5. Very near the Treehouse lodging place. I just loved the vibe of the place. No loud music. No drunkards bumping into each other. Just us, our booze, the beach, the moon shining so bright and the bean bags on the shore. I had a couple of rhum-coke for 50 pesos and Jay had some SanMig beers for 60 pesos. We even took a night dip 'coz the calmness of the sea was just so tempting. This is what "night life" means for me.

On our last day, we again had our complimentary breakfast on the resort. And strolled on the beach. Our flight back to Manila was late in the afternoon so we've decided to go to our favorite place again (pa-suspense, wait for the next post) and enjoyed the rest of the day beach bumming.

my Filipino breakfast

Jay's Filipino breakfast

We both enjoyed our carefree time in Boracay. We went there without concrete "plans" or whatsoever on what-to-do and where-to-go. It was just a play-by-ear thing which was really nice. A real vacation at its finest. Thank goodness for long weekends!

My thoughts on solo traveling

Maniwaya Island - Sta.Cruz, Marinduque

Poctoy Beach in Marinduque

I heart Marinduque! Boac adventures

Zamboanga City cheap accommodation - Atilano compound

Zamboanga City food trip and pasalubong hunt

Ciudad de Zamboanga

That pink sand in Sta.Cruz island

On long bus rides and student discounts

Top Drinking Holes: Newcastle

Luna Walk 2012

Libreng sakay, Tren, Bola at Lobo

Package Holiday Favourites

Baguio mining and food diggin

I fell twice on the way to Hydro falls in Baguio

Surfing without an instructor in La Union

My student Vega

5-hour stay in Magalawa island

Caticlan - Boracay - Caticlan

Taking it slow in Boracay - Hakuna Matata