{July 2010} I went to Cebu to apply for my dream job. But much to my dismay, I didn't get that much-awaited callback. So to help ease my disappointment, my friends and I went out for drinks after our 'interview'. And since Marriott Hotel was just beside Ayala Cebu, we walked all the way there with high heels and all.
My friend, Ruth, and I decided to get something to drink at Seattle's Best while we waited for her friend Edz to arrive. And since Ruth and Edz had no prior engagements, we all decided to have lunch at Crown Regency Hotel & Towers. So when Rubel arrived at the mall, we immediately left and hopped on the 14A Jeep.
Go out and explore! And while you're at it, bring with you a dry bag that's waterproof, floats on water and folds flat. Wait, is there such a thing? Yes, there is! Such a bag exists and it's definitely a must-have for every globetrotter. It's ideal for people who travel with a lot of stuff (i.e. gadgets, planner, water canteen, etc.). Just like me, I never leave for trips without securing my essentials. That's why I'm happy that I found a product that suits this particular need in the form of an adventure pack called Hull & Stern.
At Laiya, Batangas |
Cebu Island is full of adventures for those who are just willing to go out and explore. Some of the destinations below are suitable for a day trip, and some are perfect for a weekend. It just really depends on how much time you have. But rest assured, you will find the adventure that you're looking for in Cebu. In this post, I will provide you with a north to south guide of Cebu Island, for you to know which spots can be paired together, especially if you're planning a longer vacation.
It was my first time to fly to the Visayas area in 2010. I flew all the way to Cebu to pursue my dream job. But when things didn't go the way that I've hoped for, Rubel and I just distracted ourselves with a DIY tour around Cebu --- Plus a side trip to Bohol.
So what did we see in Metro Cebu that was worth seeing? Here's our top choices:
TRYING OUT THE FAMOUS SKY EXPERIENCE ADVENTURE
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Sky Experience Adventure with mis amigas Yen and Ruth -- and Rubel! :P |
If I were to describe my stay at San Rafael River Adventure (SRRA), it would be a safe haven. Imagine waking up inside a glass cottage, amidst a garden filled with trees and greeneries, and a gorgeous view of Angat River. You'd want nothing more than to stay and to experience the calmness that the horizon brings, as you embrace its enchanting setting. Truly, this lush sanctuary in Bulacan is an ideal place for that much needed rest and relaxation.
[Travel post from November 2010]
Me being the organized planner, already had our river rafting tour booked even before leaving Camiguin. So when we got to Cagayan De Oro, everything was already scheduled.
THE PICK-UP!
When Sir Gerome, the coordinator of Great White Water Tours said that they were picking us up at 7 am, he actually meant on the dot. In short, we got into the GWWT’s Jeepney pick-up by 7:10 am. We boarded late due to unfortunate events. Sir Gerome got a little grumpy with the ‘tardiness’. But we’ve managed to put him aside since we already extended our apologies. Then again, we weren’t the only ones who boarded the jeep late.
Now, all of us decided to book the Expert Level, instead of the Beginner’s level. We were encouraged to take the former so that we may be able to enjoy what the whole rafting experience had to offer. We were also assured that taking the expert level was something that we could handle despite having no previous rafting experience. So we took on the challenge, and were shockingly challenged out of our wits!
If you’re looking for a beach escape that can be accessed by road from Manila, then head to Playa La Caleta -- an emerging beach destination in the town of Morong, Bataan. This eco-tourism resort with a 100-hectare cove is packed with all sorts of activities. You can swim by its white sand beach, trek by its lush forest, bathe in its waterfalls, or take a dip in Miguelito Island’s famous tidal pool.
For first-time travelers in Malaysia, going on a road trip from Kuala Lumpur to Penang was quite an adventure. We might have gotten lost along the way. But our modes of transport gave us one heck of an experience!
I was never a fan of camping outdoors, so my initial response when my friends invited me to go to Calaguas was, “let me check my schedule first.” I wasn’t too keen on the idea of doing a long road trip, let alone sleep by the beach – devoid of all basic necessities. I've always been the type of traveler who likes comfy accommodations. But my love for my friends was far too great to decline an adventure-packed weekend away from the city. And I’m glad that Calaguas didn’t disappoint.
My brother and I weren't supposed to go to Nido Fortified's Science Discovery Center in Mall of Asia. But since we were already in the area (coming from PAL's Rally to Bali event last Saturday), we opted to meet with my cousins. My niece and nephews also came along so that was actually more fun for everyone.
Anyway, my Kuya treated all of us to free passes (tickets were sold at Php330 for adults and Php300 for kids). We were about 11 people who came into the center. Now, our tickets also came with free popcorn and a Milo drink, plus two Planetarium shows -- one was about the universe, and the other was the One World One Sky: Big Bird‘s Adventure.
YES! A short travel within the solar system for only Php330! How cool is that?!
Anyhow, since we came in a bit late in the afternoon, we opted to start our tour by watching the Planetarium presentations. The first projected show was actually more interesting compared to Big Bird's adventure. But the latter was a more obvious hit for the kids since they enjoyed interacting with 'Elmo' and "Big Bird' all throughout the show.
After the Planetarium, we checked out the Grossology and Smart Media City -- both of which can be accessed on the first floor.
[TRIP from November 2010]
Rubel works for an airline company and filing a vacation leave for the month of December is an impossible thing to do (peak month for work). And since our anniversary lies on the 12th month of the year, we decided to book a domestic trip on November instead. We were set to celebrate my post-birthday and our pre-anniversary somewhere far --- thus our first Mindanao adventure.
Anyway, I booked our group a 5D/4N trip. I had the first 2 nights booked in Camiguin, and the last 2 nights in Cagayan De Oro. I also suggested that the first 2 nights be spent in Camiguin so that we wouldn't have to go back-and-forth with all the traveling. So as soon as we landed in Cagayan De Oro's Lumbia Airport, we went straight to Camiguin.
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I started my travels when I was about 7 years old. My father, a former NHA employee, would always bring me and my brother to his travel escapades. He took us to several family reunions in Pangasinan and in some parts of Zambales. But the one trip that I will never forget was the one in Baguio. I remember it as one of the most memorable of all the trips that I've been to.
A food trip around Manila was my first, all out adventure after my foot injury. I almost didn't make the DIY Walking Tour since both my feet hurt days before. I could barely walk. But I really wanted to join so I got myself some gel insoles and a pair of comfy socks that same week. I just told myself that I would brave the streets of Manila, and just go with the pain. I guess, that's what travelers go through when they really want to journey off real bad.
#ThrowbackTravel | My husband and I were able to go on a staycation before Dubai went on lockdown. We went around February and checked in at Avani Hotel in Ibn Battuta. I had previously won a contest from Lovin Dubai, and the reward was a 1-night hotel stay at Avani. We were ecstatic that I won as the prize came with a nice superior room (facing the poolside) and half-board meals.

#THROWBACKTRAVEL | I've been a travel freak for most of my life. I eat and breathe travel. My love for the Philippines, my home country, can prove my desire for wandering and exploring different places. I am completely in love with my country's remarkable and rich ecological treasures. And if I were, to sum up, all of my favorite spots in a list, South Cotabato would be included. The culture-rich background of this province, and its beautiful lakes and majestic waterfalls deserve your attention and more.
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My husband and I haven't gone anywhere together since our Singapore family trip. Luckily, our friend MJ won Aquaventure tickets, to which she invited us to enjoy with her. Good thing our schedules were free, so we were able to enjoy an after dark pool party at Aquaventure Atlantis The Palm.

Explore dozens of temples and ruins in Siem Reap, the gateway to the Angkor temples. Discover what the Angkor Archaeological Park has to offer by getting on an adventure-packed day by trying the Small Tour Circuit and.or the Grand Tour Circuit (recommended to do both when traveling to this side of Cambodia). TIP: Try to get on the Grand Tour Circuit first as it offers the longest route.

There are only a few things that make me remarkably excited, and one of those include out-of-town trips and hotel stays. I just love a nice getaway that provides a delightful bed and breakfast setup. To have the opportunity to dwell in a cozy and quality accommodation truly helps restore one's mind and body. So imagine yourself savoring all these and more at a redeveloped hotel that's resting on a hilltop, amidst a very tranquil and green setting. Want to know where to find such a place? Visit the Oriental Bataan in Mariveles, and discover why it's a destination of its own.

A visit to Antique has been long overdue, and all it took was a little push from friends to finally come and explore the province. And I’m glad I went because spending six days all over Panay Island was quite memorable, as it blessed me a week filled with amazing travel experiences, loyal camaraderie, new discoveries, and deep reflection. Antique has put me under its charm, completely.
