[April 2008] Just a week after my trip from Boracay, a few friends invited me to go with them for a 3-day getaway. It wasn’t completely planned. So it wasn’t something out of impulse either. And since Puerto Galera was only 1-2 hours away by boat from the Batangas Pier (add 2-3 more hours via bus from Manila to the pier), we decided to hit the beach with just some money in tow. We brought with us about PHP4,000 each. Besides the fact that I was already burnt by Boracay’s golden rays, I still obliged to this beach adventure.
DAY 1
My boyfriend and two of our friends met up at the JAM Transit station in Kamuning at around 1 am. We bought our tickets at the terminal, which cost us PHP150 each. After settling on the bus, we went for a quick CR break. Word of advice, breathe in as much clean air before using the facilities! It was a grueling and stinking experience!
We left the terminal by 2 am, and was able to arrive at the Batangas port around 5 am. Unfortunately, for us backpackers, we only got a boat ride after 1 ½ hour, due to a delay in their transportation services. But the day was still young, and we were still very early.
My boyfriend and two of our friends met up at the JAM Transit station in Kamuning at around 1 am. We bought our tickets at the terminal, which cost us PHP150 each. After settling on the bus, we went for a quick CR break. Word of advice, breathe in as much clean air before using the facilities! It was a grueling and stinking experience!
We left the terminal by 2 am, and was able to arrive at the Batangas port around 5 am. Unfortunately, for us backpackers, we only got a boat ride after 1 ½ hour, due to a delay in their transportation services. But the day was still young, and we were still very early.
By the time 6:30 am clocked in, an available yellow-painted boat arrived. By 8 am, we were already checked-in at the South of the Border. This inn was about 2-3 minutes away from the shores of the famous white beach. We then went straight to this location since my guy friend already stayed here on his previous vacation. A funny thing came up though. When we were reading the ‘house’ rules posted on our room’s door, I noticed a certain phrase that stated “Chick-Out!” Imagine that! Sorry for the bad grammar. But it was just hilarious!
[February 2008] I went on a short road trip to Batangas with my family on a February morning. We were bound for Club Malarayat, Batangas to visit my sister Ina, who was at her 3G Basketball Camp. Both of my sisters are basketball players (they used to play for the National team). But there was also a time when I played as the Captain Ball of my high school and college team. But gone are the days when I could still drive the ball, and defend opponents like a pro. Good old memories. Anyway, while the 3G team was warming up, my family and I went around Club Malarayat to explore more of the beautiful place.
By the Pool and Clubhouse
Playground and Golf Course Area
My sister's camp teammates
After playing tourist, my family and I went out for some famous Batangas Bulalo. The nearest one that we could find was a restaurant in Robinson's Mall. The place was just a few minutes away from the private resort club, so we're able to travel there fast. Anyway, we capped the night off by bidding our sister adieu. We left that night with a full stomach and a very rejuvenated soul. That particular road trip was certainly a breather.
How about you? Have you been to Club Marayat yet? How was your experience there?
Enjoy & Be Free!
Mai
[April 2008] I’m very particular when it comes to budgeting, especially if it's a long-term trip. That's why I always check if there would be enough time to save up for a potential outing. I would also make sure that everybody’s schedules were made as cohesive as possible. Of course, who wants last-minute problems when you're already booked and paid, right?
Boarding the Cebu Pacific plane
[Trip from November 2007] To give a recap on things, months before my first trip out of the country, I’ve researched extensively the contents of our Hong Kong and Macau itinerary. Through the process, I’ve stumbled upon the following websites that have helped me create our trip activities: Discover Hong Kong, Travel China Guide, Trip Advisor, Lonely Planet, Hong Kong Extras, and HKG Travel, and Expedia.
With the help of a few detailed FREE Hong Kong maps, my Kuya and I were able to go around HKG easily. The MTR and buses were so convenient to find and were very fast, which made the commute a breeze for us after some time. Anyway, let me share what we did during our short stay in Hong Kong and Macau.
DAY 1
· Checked-in at our hotel around 2 PM, at the YMCA International House (YMCA Hotel by Waterloo Road, near Yau Ma Tei MTR station).
· Headed out for some late lunch at Mcdonald’s (Central area) with my cousin, his wife, and daughter. Mcdo meals in HKG were pricey compared to ours in the Philippines.