Rubel was set to leave for work abroad on a September. So we made sure to book a quick getaway to celebrate our advance anniversary, and to also do a sort of despedida for him. We wanted to go the beach, and just have a relaxing time, so going to Boracay was an immediate choice. But since we lacked the time to do any decent research on where to stay, we chose to browse lodging options via Agoda. And after narrowing our selections, we eventually booked LSM Square Residences.
Rubel had to travel back home for a wedding. So I was left alone in the hotel, and in Kuala Lumpur for another 24 hours. But that didn't stop me from wandering around the city on my own. It was actually nice of my friends to invite me again for some girl bonding. So we went around the city's hip and happening shopping centers that morning.
Christmas decors at Berjaya Times Square (November 2013) |
On our 4th day in Malaysia, Rubel and I spent the whole morning traveling by bus from Penang to Kuala Lumpur. The entire road trip took around 4 hours, since other passengers were picked up at the Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal (plus one stopover). But we were able to arrive in KL just in time for lunch. We also met up with Rubel’s sister-in-law, Melody at KL Sentral (where we alighted), and went directly to Tune Hotel via cab. Yes, we came back to the same hotel since we loved its room and amenities. It was a budget traveler’s haven!
Penang to KL via Alisan Golden Coach (comes with reclining seats, power outlets, Wi-Fi connection) |
Melody wanted to show us around the Central Market area, so we left immediately. So when we finally settled in at our hotel, the three of us headed straight to Sultan Ismail LRT (a 5-minute walk from the hotel via footbridge). The single journey ticket from Sultan Ismail to Pasar Seni is 2.20/person.
DIRECTIONS: From Sultan Ismail, get down at Masjid Jamek Station. Then alight at the next train that’s bound for Pasar Seni.
Did you know that Penang is a thriving Malaysian destination? It sure is! Considered as one of the country’s well-developed states (being technologically advanced and highly urbanized), Pulau Pinang (in Malay) is an island state that nurtures an interesting multicultural community. The “Pearl of the Orient” is also known for its remarkable heritage sites, multiracial citizenry, and diverse yet sumptuous cuisines.
When Rubel and I were still planning our trip to Malaysia, we initially included 3 places for us to visit: Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Malacca. Unfortunately, the latter had to be dropped due to time constraints. But we were glad that we pushed through in visiting KL, and most especially Penang. The Guardian actually listed it as part of the "World's Top 10 Best City to visit in 2014". And according to Yahoo, Penang is also part of the "Top 10 Islands to explore before you die".
I fell in love with Penang, as the UNESCO World Heritage Site was just beautiful and exquisite. But what I loved the most about it was how diverse the cultures and races were in the state. And basing it from our observations, a multiracial community existed in harmony despite having different cultures, languages and religions (there are Malays, Indians, Chinese, Arabs just to name a few).
I didn't have any immediate plans to visit Malaysia. But I definitely included it in my travel list, just so I could see the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur. Yes, I've heard and read about the country and its rich culture. But I didn't give it that much thought. But when my Filipino friends urged for me to visit their second home, I gave it a go and was not left disappointed. Malaysia, let alone its lovely cities and states, have sincerely kept me in awe.
Malaysia, being the melting pot of religions, hosts a cordial, multiracial community. And in my time in Kuala Lumpur and Penang did I see how the society really lived harmoniously despite being so diverse.
Rubel and I were already searching for affordable hotels in Tagaytay for weeks before settling for Tagaytay Haven Hotel in Mendez. We needed an accommodation in the city in time for his friends wedding (last November 2013) --- somewhere near the church and Sonya's Garden. And since I loved Tagaytay Haven's other hotel by Ulat, I assumed that their Mendez branch would be as pleasant. I mean, their photos online (rooms and facilities) looked impressive. Then again, the actual thing disappointed us.
Rubel already went ahead of me since he was part of the wedding entourage. I, on the otherhand, came the day after. The driver had a hard time locating the hotel. So we got lost a few times. It was true when my beau said that the hotel was a bit hard to locate.
I didn't have a hard time searching for a lodging in Biliran Island, especially one that's located by the beach. So when AGTA BEACH RESORT popped into the search engine, I knew it was what I was looking for.
It was the first week of November when my friend and I traveled in some areas of Eastern Visayas. I flew to Tacloban via PAL Express, and went straight to Biliran Island with Coreene. Her father drove us to the Van-Van Tours terminal (straight from the airport), where a shuttle van took us directly to the Municipality of Naval. It took us around 2 1/2 hours on the road before reaching Biliran's capital.
Coreene and I woke up early so that we could get a head start in touring Tacloban City. I still had a lot on my list that I wanted to see, so we went shortly after breakfast. And by 7 AM we were already off to see the Boyscout Monument and MacArthur Park (did a commute via tricycle). Coreene's dad fetched us at McDonalds Downtown a few hours later, to drive us to several more tourist spots.
1) The BOYSCOUNT MONUMENT in Palo was the first ever Boyscout monument that was created in human form. It was put up in 1941. [Read more about it HERE.]
Biliran and Ormoc are amazing places. As both areas made me fall more in love with my country. The waterfalls and the rice terraces in Biliran were remarkable. And the historical structures in Ormoc made me appreciate more of the Philippines' past hardships and achievements. So if you've already explored much of Visayas (or any part of the archipelago for that matter), then you will surely agree that "It's More Fun In The Philippines."
But my 4-day backpacking trip in Eastern Visayas didn't end in Biliran and Ormoc City. I continued to wander through Region VIII, and spent my last two days in Tacloban City --- Coreene's hometown. Cuks randomly asked me about plans on visiting her there. We haven't seen each other for so long since she worked abroad. So I decided to book a plane ticket without hesitation. I did it not just for the sake of traveling to a new Philippine destination, but to also spend time with a friend that I missed dearly. I actually thought that I wouldn't be able to make the trip since I broke my 5th metatarsal 3 weeks before the actual departure. But when I had the chance to rebook my plane ticket without being charged, I moved the trip to November. And in the most inopportune time, I left Tacloban a day before Super Typhoon Yolanda hit the Philippines. [You can read my short tribute HERE].
Super Typhoon Yolanda destroyed several areas in Tacloban --- a few of the sites that I will write about here. So allow me to pay tribute to this wonderful place by showing you its beauty before it was ruined by the storm.
Every now and then, Rubel and I would treat each other to a nice food sesh, a spa date or to a hotel staycation (if time and budget permits) whenever we would feel stressed from work, which he has been experiencing more intensely these days. So we decided to make time to reenergize, and booked a weekend stay at the Exchange Regency Residences Hotel in Ortigas.
Every now and then, Rubel and I would treat each other to a nice food sesh, a spa date or to a hotel staycation (if time and budget permits) whenever we would feel stressed from work, which he has been experiencing more intensely these days. So we decided to make time to reenergize, and booked a weekend stay at the Exchange Regency Residences Hotel in Ortigas.
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.
When my friend got married in Lingayen, Pangasinan last April, I failed to get my nails done in time for the event. I was rushing to get some work done, so I managed to just cut my nails, and dab them with natural nail polish. I wasn't part of the entourage. But it would've been better if I got myself made up a little bit. Oh, if I only knew that I was going to be the last person to get the bouquet (and you know what comes next to that --- putting the garter into my unkept feet and into my leg!). I definitely yearned for a nice spa session right after that nerve-wracking surprise!
Anyway, when an invitation to review a nail and body spa was sent my way, it was definitely something that I couldn't say no to. It came at an opportune time as well since I just came from a camping trip in Calaguas. And you know what they say... travelers also need to get pampered every once in a while.
It's rare for me to write about restaurants here in the Metro, as I often blog about the ones that I dine at when I'm traveling out of the city. But when I was invited and introduced to this restaurant in Mandaluyong, something in me had to say, "YES! GO RSVP!" And so I did, and I sincerely loved the experience thereafter.
For a Budget Biyahera like me, it pays to know where money is going, especially if I'm saving up for a trip. So affordable yet quality-made meals in the city will definitely help me with not spending too much. And let me just say that St. Nicholas was certainly a great find!
I've been to Pangasinan once with my dad when I was a kid, and I remember enjoying my time in the province. So when an opportunity to visit 2 of its municipalities were given to us [April 26 to 27, 2014], I couldn't pass up the chance to explore its travel-worthy destinations.
According to Wikipedia: "The name Pangasinan means "place for salt" or "place of salt-making"; it is derived from the prefix pang, meaning "for", the root word asin, meaning "salt”, and suffix an, signifying "location." The province is a major producer of salt in the Philippines. Its major products include "bagoong" ("salted-fish") and "agamang" ("salted-shrimp")."
If you're looking for a no-frills accommodation that is both comfy and affordable when visiting Lingayen, then you should check out THE PRESIDENT HOTEL. It's close to several tourist destinations (walking distance), and is just an 8-minute walk to the beach.
My friend and I arrived in Lingayen around 12:15 AM. From the Victory Liner terminal, we then hailed a tricycle to the hotel (travel was less than 5-min). We were actually glad that there was a guard who stood by the gate, and a male receptionist that welcomed us that early morning. We were told that the rooms at the main building was fully-booked, so we were given a spacious unit at the Annex building. It was just a 1-2 minute walk from the main hotel.
I haven't experienced a close encounter with any Philippine lake before. But I've seen several from afar. So I couldn't contain my excitement when we were getting ready to visit Lake Danao in Ormoc. Leyte's lagoon is said to be guitar-shaped and is of volcanic origin. What used to be called "Lake Imelda" (now called Lake Danao Natural Park) covers an area of around 148 hectares or 370 acres.
Now that you know how ZAMBAWOOD started, then I'm sure you're all excited as to what the luxury beach resort will have in store for you --- because when you stay at the San Narciso haven, you're sure to have the whole place to yourself. Their amenities are to die for! So I bet you'll get hooked with this lovely Zambales sanctuary! Below are 8 jaw-dropping reasons why I love Zambawood.
I loved the fact that the resort has character. So if I were to have a place of my own, I would design it towards Zambawood's aesthetics. I was that impressed with the whole look. Mrs. Rachel Harrison, being an Architecture graduate from UST, designed the entire house (both exterior and interior decoration). You'll also find that most furnishings in the house came mostly from their travels around the world.
So much has happened in a span of two days. Two weekends may have already passed yet the memories of a short getaway is still fresh in my mind. ZAMBAWOOD is a hidden paradise. And I felt truly blessed and fortunate to have been invited to stay in such a beautiful luxury beach resort.
I was taken aback when I found out the price for one night's stay at Zambawood. But when I learned more about it, I immediately felt what a remarkable place it was. It's definitely worth every penny!
Last weekend was unforgettable. I never thought that I would feel so elated just by watching a Pyromusical by the bay. I mean, I've never really seen anything as bold and as vibrant up-close (given the short distance from the seawall where the fireworks were lit). I guess, seeing it in close proximity felt really different, as opposed to seeing them already fired up in the sky every New Year's day.
Anyway, the seaside boulevard of SM Mall of Asia looked really amazing. It was packed with people, all waiting for the event to start --- the 5th (and the last one for the year) Philippine International Pyromusical Competition.
It started to get all gloomy when we left Agta Beach Resort. But thanks to Melo's father (who was on his way to Tacloban Airport), we were able to hitch a free ride all the way to Lemon Junction. The skies were getting pretty dark while we were on the road. But it only started pouring when we got dropped off at the intersection. Talk about being lucky! Anyhow, Coreene and I had to wait for 10 more minutes before we finally got on a regular Ormoc-bound bus.
We were standing half of the time on the bus. But I had no complaints. I was thankful that we were able to meet our host a good hour later. We were actually glad when the rain stopped as we were nearing Ormoc's bus terminal.
Coreene and I had the rest of the morning in Biliran before leaving for Ormoc. So for us not to feel constrained with the time that we had left on the island, we opted to have a more relaxed tour --- thus choosing to go and see Tinago Falls in Caibiran (another Biliran municipality).
It's been almost 4 months since I visited Eastern Visayas, particularly the areas of Tacloban, Biliran and Ormoc. Although I have friends in those cities that have been updating us of some progress from their provinces, I still couldn't digress the tragedy that has struck these precious areas late last year. I've actually contemplated about writing my visit to these cities before the Super Typhoon hit the Philippines. But for now, until these places fully recover, let me share to you the many scenic attractions that my friend and I witnessed during our 4-day backpacking trip last November 2013.
A HALF DAY AFFAIR IN THE ISLAND PROVINCE OF BILIRAN
My friend Clarice didn't want to eat anything heavy for our dinner date, which meant no rice to our meals. So I went ahead and looked for a Chinese or Japanese restaurant that would cater to her request. Good enough, Yaku Japanese Grill came into sight.
Yaku can be located on the 3rd floor of the Podium Mall, Ortigas. It's sort of hidden from sight. But you'll know you're in the right track when you see a Toy Store and a chinese restaurant on the left side of the floor area.
You probably all know how much I love food and traveling! I discovered a new collaborative website which combines my two loves. The travel platform Withlocals connects locals in Asia with travellers from all over the world. They can share their love for their culture, traveling and food, which will definitely create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for both the tourist, as well as the traveller!
If you've been following my love story, then you already know that I've been in a relationship since 2007. And it is through our 6 years of being together and of traveling as a couple, did we come to know the best and the worst parts of each other. And since it's the love month, I'll be sharing how Rubel and I manage some of the joys and woes of wandering together.
I probably gained so much when I last visited Baguio, as all I ever did was eat, sleep and roam around. I mean, if you were traveling with someone like my brother (who has a really fast metabolism), then you'd probably be sampling a lot of grub too. Plus, he probably mistook my wallet for being a bank since he'd be pointing his finger on whatever food branch he sees --- which happens at least every hour when we're out.
So what we did that first night in Baguio was to scout in Session Road for a good place to dine in. We initially wanted to try something different, something that wasn't serving fast food. Yet we still ended up in a diner. So after going up and down the area, we finally decided to try Jim's Retro Diner (located at the ground floor of La Azotea Building).
I've always wanted to go back to Baguio, but I just couldn't pencil it in my schedule. Then again, I also had other travel goals (i.e. aiming to visit other places that I haven't been to yet). But last October, I finally had the chance to journey up north again. And this time, with a purpose in mind.
When I saw this deal online (2 years ago), I knew that I had to get it! I know, this post is super late. But it's better late than never, right? Anyway, see for yourself why I had to grab this deal from eBay's Kuponan.
While I was sifting through the rolls of indigenous textiles at Easter Weaving Baguio, my brother suddenly whispered into my ears "gutom nako.." (I'm hungry). I actually asked him to buy something to eat from the nearby store, but he immediately declined. And since he wanted me to finish my 'textile shopping', he waited until I was done. He's such a supportive brother, right? So as a reward for being such a good companion (and since I was the only one who benefited from this specific travel), I treated him to a sumptuous lunch at Cafe by the Ruins.
One of the places that I've always wanted to visit in Baguio was Easter Weaving. The weaving center was actually one of the reasons why I wanted to make a quick trip up north. So when my brother and I finally agreed on a date last October 2013, we went on our way to the summer capital of the Philippines.
When Rubel and I reached our 70th month last October, we decided to do something special for that date. And since I was craving for a nice dinner setup, we chose to meet at Harbor Square right after work. But as soon as we reached the port, the stench from the bay reeked that we ended up eating at Army Navy (2nd floor). It was actually a good decision to move upstairs since a panoramic view of Manila bay looked more spectacular from where we sat (Manila's famous sunset and skyline are best seen from the top).
I love Manila Bay despite its polluted air, scattered trash and spoiled black waters. And I'll always be caught in awe with its many other wonders.
It was only last year when we found comfort and enjoyment in what others referred to as 'staycations'. So after enjoying our stay at Great Eastern Hotel and Orion Hotel, Rubel and I went on another quick getaway. But this time, we opted to stay somewhere close by. And since we were both stressed out from our respective jobs, we decided to spend one night at iSuites just to unwind.
One of the things that I love about wayfaring is having the opportunity to share my passion for it. And in the past two years, I've been offered the chance to write for a few local magazines. It is through print media that I continuously get to show more of my love for exploring the Philippines.
[June 2013 entry...]
I was supposed to go home right after having brunch with my college friends. But for some reason, I urged myself to walk around UP Diliman before going home. So I obliged myself with a little 'me' time. I mean, my recently injured foot could also use some exercise, so I trailed away.
I was supposed to go home right after having brunch with my college friends. But for some reason, I urged myself to walk around UP Diliman before going home. So I obliged myself with a little 'me' time. I mean, my recently injured foot could also use some exercise, so I trailed away.
My friend dropped me off in-front of CAL (College of Arts & Letters) before going back to her class. And from there, I started my slow walk. That's when I started taking pictures of the buildings that I used to frequent back when I was still in college. Here are just some of the structures that made me reminisce the good ol' days.
Before there were hi-tech gadgets where 'notes' can easily be typed and saved, I first jotted down many details of my travels on just a simple notepad. I would write down the street names that I passed-by, the directions going to certain locations and attractions, and the expenses incurred from the many establishments that I've visited along the way (costs on transportation, food, shopping, etc.). So writing down my entries on several blank pages was my way of documenting the places that I've already been to. Of course, I recorded everything that was going to be of use to me, to help me write my travel stories in full detail later on. So you can just imagine how nostalgic it felt when I started documenting my travels again (after several years) using this spiffy looking journal --- a special edition, 'The Travel Club Moleskine'. This notebook was all the more special because the company behind TTC just celebrated 20 fruitful years of being in the retail business. That's a milestone right there!
2013 has been a hard year for me. And it truly felt like I was being challenged in more ways than one (physically, emotionally, spiritually, financially). The number of trips that I made this year may have been less compared to 2012. But I still thank God for blessing me with plenty of life-changing experiences.
HOW I GOT THROUGH THE BAD JUJU
My right foot's 5th metatarsal broke in March, which kept me from having to work and to travel (was already bound for Tacloban the next month when this happened). Plus, a nasty skin ailment progressed all over my body during my immobility. I couldn't get myself checked at the time since I could barely walk with my foot cast. So things worsened through those months. And by the time I consulted a dermatologist, a new set of expenses came pouring like rain.
My friends and I spent some time in Intramuros right after our food exploration in Chinatown last September --- as we waited for another pal to join us that afternoon. We actually dropped by the Silahis Art & Artifacts to help pass up on time. And from there did we see firsthand some of the most interesting Philippine artifacts, books, cultural handicrafts, sculptures, paintings and more.
The Silahas Center is the building on the left (the one with the brown exterior). |
I had the privilege of experiencing Carlos Celdran's (Manila's Tourism Consultant) FREE #VivaManila Walking Tour with several Pinoy Travel Bloggers last September. It happened right after our stopover at the Silahis Art & Artifacts in Intramuros.
THE BEST THING'S IN LIFE ARE FREE!
Carlos Celdran's Free #VivaManila Walking Tour definitely made this statement stand out. Why? Because other than giving out a free, no-frills tour around the City of Manila, he also graced us with his very boisterous yet down-to-earth character. Of course, the project itself is one to commend since Carlos' team (Mayor Joseph Estrada the guys at the Manila City Hall) aims to restore what the Filipinos once loved about the Philippine capital. Moreover, the tour was created to inform everyone that the bustling city is very much a walkable destination. You can certainly go from one interesting place to another just by using your feet and your wandering soul.
Ever since the "no plastic" rule was implemented in several parts of Metro Manila, I've already made it a point to bring an eco bag whenever I leave the house. But even before the rule was put into effect, I would already place a foldable mesh bag inside my purse. And it would always come in handy whenever I'd buy stuff from the mall or from the grocery store. But I enjoyed carrying all sorts of stuff even more when I received my very own Baggu Shopping Bag.
It has been a yearly thing for me and Rubel to do our Christmas shopping ahead of time (as early as November), so we could avoid the rush of people scurrying to buy their last minute gifts. I particularly dislike the long lines at the cashier, and the body-bumping moments with the thick crowd. But what I've never really liked during the holiday rush is the commute whenever we visit the mall. We don't have our own car, so we'd usually ride a Jeep or Cab when going home. Then again, it also becomes a tiring thing to do when you have to wait in line just to get a taxi, when you so desperately want to go home and rest. Yes, cab's also have long queues during the holidays. And it's always the same scenario, so don't be surprised when you go around the Philippines in this time of year. But when we heard about this certain Taxi app, we knew we had to try it. So we did come Christmas morning.
When I decided to end an almost 3-year relationship, starting over felt like the most difficult thing to do. It took me almost a year to finally start dating again. I mean, it was the hardest thing for me to go through, knowing that I got used to being with just one person all those years. But God was kind enough to find me someone who easily took away the “dating inhibitions” out of me.
As I was reading through a book that my Kuya gave me (The Secret by Rhonda Byrne), a lot of meaningful concepts were discussed about seeing everything on a positive note. Skeptic as I was at life at that time, I read and eventually followed each principle. And quoting from the book, “the essence of The Secret is the Law of Attraction."
Planning for a trip to the Summer Capital of the Philippines? Make sure to pack your bags with some warm clothing to combat the low temperatures. Don’t forget to make a list of the places to visit in Baguio for you to be guided as to where you should go. It really is easy to tour the city without joining a tour group. You’ll have nothing to worry about.
BenCab Museum
Among the city’s newest attractions, the BenCab Museum has only opened its doors to the public in recent years. Home to national artist Ben Cabrera, the museum features a number of his masterpieces, including some quirky erotic art pieces. The museum is also set in a lush park which makes it ideal for relaxation.