Year-end Special : Thank You 2011!

70 days of travel. 27 new provinces. 2 independent cities. 8 provices re-visited. 33 plane rides. 24 boat, roro, ferry tranfers. Countless bus, van, jeepney, tricycle, trisikad, habal-habal rides. 2 mountain peaks. Numerous adventures. Several new friendships built. 1 goal: "to inspire people to live their dreams, to travel and find their own adventure of a lifetime!"

My Christmas Wish...

This Christmas, may your home be filled with the sweetness of love from your family and friends. May the love of God always shine in your life, as you become a light for others. Maligayang Pasko!

TRAVEL GUIDE: Leyte and Southern Leyte - Tourist Spots and Attractions, How To Get There, Accommodations, Transportation, Expenses, Itinerary and Contact Details

HOW TO GET THERE

Airport to the City Center
In Tacloban, the city center is called downtown. From the airport, take a jeepney bound for "downtown". Remember to take the regular jeepneys which only costs 15-20 pesos compared to the "special trip" jeepneys that costs 60 pesos for a trip to downtown Tacloban City.

Pinoy Holidays : 2012 Philippine Holidays and Long-weekend Schedule

In a fews days from now, we shall bid 2011 goodbye and say hello to 2012. The Philippine government had officially declared the list of Philippine Holidays for 2012 through Proclamation No. 295. I'm so glad that there will be several long weekends this coming year. I won't be having a hard time booking those promo flights and to plan for my travels for next year. Hehehe!

Leyte - The Neoclassical Leyte Provincial Capitol Building

Built in 1907, the imposing Leyte Provincial Capitol Building has a stunning neoclassical architecture typical of American-era government edifices. It played a significant part of Philippine history as it briefly became the seat of Philippine Commonwealth Government from October 23, 1944 to February 27, 1945.

SAMAR & LEYTE TOURIST SPOTS: San Juanico Bridge, "A Walk To Remember"

Whenever I travel, time constraint has always been my dilemma. If only I have all the time in the world to just sit at the beach and watch the sunset, I would love to do that. But I have a job in Manila and I need to be back. Please don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. I've been roaming around some parts of Leyte and Southern Leyte for two days already and it's just so hard to believe that it's about to end.

Southern Leyte - Wandering Around Maasin City

Maasin City is the capital of Southern Leyte. A 4th class city bounded by the Canigao Channel on the south, the town of Matalom, Leyte on the north, Macrohon on the southeast and the municipalities of Malitbog and Tomas Oppus on the east. It may not be a usual tourist destination, but it’s laid-back charm and bucolic beauty make it an ideal place to relax and escape the typical city life.

Pinoy Adventurista will be on National TV

It started with a comment from one of the researchers of GMA News TV on my Facebook Fan Page. For quite some time, I was speechless. Is this for real? I just can't believe it. I really don't know what to do. I'm asking myself, am I ready for this? Do I really want need an exposure on National TV? Below is the comment:

Leyte - Waking up in an Island Paradise called Canigao

It's day 2 of our overnight camping trip in Canigao island. We were wide awake even before the sun came out. We were just sitting at the shoreline waiting for the dawn to break. The sound of the waves and the cool breeze of the air are our companion. We were in the offing as a new day unfolds.

Leyte - Arriving at Canigao Island for an Overnight Camping Trip

Canigao Island is located in the municipality of Matalom, province of Leyte. This small island off the southwestern coast of Leyte island is a favorite inexpensive weekend get away among Leyteños and tourists visiting the island. It is a small, uninhabited island. So small, one can walk around it in less than half an hour.

Events : The Philippine Blog Awards 2011

The Philippine Blog Awards is an annual event organized by the Philippine Blogger Awards Inc. that aims to recognize oustanding blogs in (but not limited to) the Filipino Blogging Community. This year's awards night was held last December 3, 2011 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium of RCBC Plaza in Makati City.

Southern Leyte - Zip Southern Leyte, the Country’s Longest, Highest and Steepest Dual Zip Line

Zip Southern Leyte, is the first dual zipline in Eastern Visayas region. Located at the tallest bridge in the Philippines, Agas-Agas Bridge provides a thrilling experience for brave souls wanting some heart pounding ziplining adventure. Opened last April 11, 2011, it is a tourism project of the provincial government of Southern Leyte in partnership with some private organizations.

Southern Leyte - Agas-Agas Bridge, the Tallest Bridge in the Philippines

Agas-Agas Bridge in Brgy. Kahupian, Sogod, Southern Leyte is the tallest bridge in the Philippines. It was built to avoid the perennial landslide dangers in the area during heavy rains. It keeps the Mahaplag-Sogod section of the Maharlika Highway open and safe by creating the viaduct to bypass the original route that was carved on the side of the mountain.

Leyte - Reliving Gen. Douglas MacArthur's Historic Return to the Philippines

Considered as one of the most historical towns of Leyte, Palo is the the site where Gen. Douglas MacArthur landed when he returned to the Philippines together with hundreds of military forces on October 20, 1944. A landing memorial was erected at the Red Beach to mark the spot where MacArthur and his troops landed. The "red" in Red Beach is not because the sand here is color red; rather, it refers to the color of the beach after being drenched in blood during the war.

TRAVEL GUIDE: Marawi, Iligan and Ozamiz City - How To Get There, Accommodations, Transportation, Expenses, Itinerary and Contact Details

HOW TO GET THERE

Ozamiz to Iligan City
Take a tricycle from the airport to the Integrated Bus and Jeepney Terminal (60 PHP). Then take a bus bound for Cagayan de Oro City. The bus crosses Panguil bay via a ferry boat (25 PHP) from Ozamiz City to Mukas port in Lanao del Norte. Get off at Iligan City. Travel time is about 1.5 hours, fare is 70 pesos.

Iligan to Marawi City
Take a Marawi bound van or jeepney at the Southbounf Terminal in Iligan City. Travel time is about an hour and fare is 50 pesos on a jeepney.

Ozamiz City's Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Pipe Organ

Ozamiz City’s Immaculate Conception Cathedral is the home of the second largest pipe organ in the Philippines. It is one among the very few pipe organs in the country and the only existing in the island of Mindanao.

Misamis Occidental - A Relaxing Afternoon at Cotta Beach and Plaza De Los Jesuitas

Cotta Beach is located just outside Cotta Fort. So, after paying homage to the Virgin of Triumph at the Cotta Shrine, I walked towards the beach area to check things out. The beach has black sand and a narrow shoreline. At one end is a community and at the other is the Port of Ozamiz City. As the fort is very near the sea, a breakwater was built as a protection from the waves which made way for the construction of the Plaza De Los Jesuitas.

Misamis Occidental - Paying Homage to Nuestra Señora de la Conception y del Triunfo at the Cotta Shrine

Another popular site in Ozamiz City is the Nuestra Señora de la Conception y del Triunfo Shrine or more popularly known as Cotta Shrine. It is located at the south end of the Cotta Fort where a bas-relief image of the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception is enshrined in a small chapel outside the fort's wall. A lot of pilgrims visit the image of the Virgin Mary in pink and blue attire that is believed to be miraculously growing.

Misamis Occidental - Visiting Cotta Fort in Ozamiz City

After exploring Iligan City, I checked out of the hostel and continued my journey. I took a bus bound for Ozamiz City and rode the ferry in Mukas Port going to Ozamiz. I had a great view of the city while the ferry traversed for 20 minutes across Panguil Bay. Total travel time from Iligan City to Ozamiz is about 1.5 hours. I went out of the port and walked for a few meters towards Cotta Fort.

Lanao del Norte - Witnessing the Stunning and Strong Maria Christina Falls, a Dream Come True!

Maria Cristina Falls is part of the Agus River, a major source of electricity in Mindanao. It is a landmark located in the "City of Majestic Waterfalls" - Iligan City. The second highest falls in the Philippines at 320 - feet high, it is sometimes called "twin falls" because the flow of the water in the falls is separated by a rock at the edge of the waterfall. The waterfall is also the primary source of electric power generated by the Agus VI Hydroelectric Plant.

Lanao del Norte - NPC Nature's Park in Iligan City

The NPC Nature's Park is located within the Agus 6 & 7 Hydroelectric Power Plant Complex of the National Power Corporation. This eco-adventure facility was made to boost the tourism potential of Maria Cristina Falls and to enjoy nature at it's grandest. It features a butterfly garden, koi pond, crocodile farm, mini zoo/ostrich area, a bat cave, orchidarium, lagoon, cottages, wishing well, viewing decks along the banks of the Agus River, souvenir shop, a cafeteria and activities such as rock climbing and zip line.

Lanao del Norte - The Rushing and Raging Mimbalut Falls

No two waterfalls are alike; and this makes me more excited to visit another. Mimbalut Falls is another must-see when visiting Iligan City. Located at Barangay Buru-un, near the boundary between Iligan City and the municipality of Linamon, it is frequented by locals and tourists because of its accessibility from the national road. At approximately 90 ft high, this breathtaking falls with cool refreshing waters is an ideal place for swimming and enjoy its strong water gushing from the top.

Lanao del Norte - Discovering the Beauty of Tinago Waterfalls

Iligan City is known as the "City of Majestic Waterfalls". I will not let this visit pass without checking on how majestic these waterfalls are. So, on my 2nd day in the city, I was accompanied by my friend, Jerwin in exploring the waterfalls around the city. Our first destination is the Tinago Waterfalls. Literally means "hidden", the falls is concealed within a deep ravine. One should go through a little bit of trekking of approximately 500 descending steps to reach this hidden jewel.

Lanao del Norte - Iligan City's Lesbian Boxing, Night Cafe and Halang-halang

After exploring Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, I went back to Iligan City to find a hostel where I could spend a night. Since it was already dark when I reached the city, I had a hard time finding one that fits my budget. The cheapest that I was able to find is at 400 pesos per night. I took it! So, after settling in, I went out to have dinner with my friend. He suggested that we meet at the night cafe set up in the city plaza. Good thing, it's just a few steps away from where I'm staying.

Lanao del Sur - Visiting King Faisal Mosque

A mosque is a Muslim place for prayer and worship. It comes from the Arabic word masjid which means "a place of prostration" to God. Being an Islamic City, Marawi has a lot of Mosques. I'm glad that even with a limited time, I was able to visit at least one of Marawi City's mosques.

Lanao del Sur - An Enriching Tour at the Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts

It is my privilege to personally witness how rich Maranao and the Muslim culture in general is, by visiting the Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts. Originally opened in 1962, it is located inside Mindanao State University Main Campus in the Islamic City of Marawi. It was named in honor of His Royal Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV who greatly contributed to the realization of the museum.

Lanao del Sur - Strolling Around Mindanao State University, Marawi City

Midanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City is the flagship and the biggest campus of the MSU System. It was founded in 1961 with a vision of being the “Premier Supra-Regional University in the MINSUPALA (Mindanao, Sulu Archipelago, and Palawan) region”. Under Republic Act 1387, MSU was created and opened with 282 students and 12 faculty members.

Lanao del Sur - En Route to the Islamic City of Marawi

I arrived early morning of September 16, 2011 in Ozamiz City Airport. From there, I took a tricycle going to the Integrated Bus and Jeepney Terminal where I will take a bus going to Iligan City. To my surprise, the 10-minute ride from the airport to the transport terminal costs 60 pesos. Huwhat??? Considering that we are four in the tricycle and all of us paid the same amount? It's too expensive huh!

Albay - Ziplining at Ligñon Hill, Legazpi City

Aside from the spectacular and majestic view of the Mayon Volcano that Ligñon Hill offers, there are various fun-filled and thrilling outdoor activities that can be done here. One is the zip line which I promised myself to do if I will be given the chance to visit Legazpi City again. I finally had the chance to ride Ligñon Hill's zip line on my 2nd visit to City last September 15, 2011. Regardless of the gloomy weather, I am just so excited and ready to try it out.

Pinoy Holidays : Another Long Weekend Holiday on November 5 - 7, 2011

There will be another long weekend holiday throughout Philippines next month. As President Noynoy Aquino had declared November 7, 2011 as a Regular Holiday under Proclamation 276. As stated in the proclamation "PROCLAMATION NO. 276, DECLARING MONDAY, 7 NOVEMBER 2011, AS A REGULAR HOLIDAY THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY, IN OBSERVANCE OFEIDUL ADHA (FEAST OF SACRIFICE)".

Albay - A Quick Revisit to Legazpi City

Almost a year ago when I first saw the lovely Mayon Volcano. It was a dream come true! I never thought that I would see her again this soon. Last September 15, 2011, I found my self travelling to Legazpi City again, this time with my mom. Not for a vacation though, we went there to pay our last respect to a departed relative.

BILIRAN BUDGET TRAVEL GUIDE: DIY Itinerary, Things to do, How To Get There, Tourist Spots and Attractions, Accommodations, Transportation, Expenses, Itinerary and More!

Are you looking for Biliran Budget Travel Guide?

This Biliran travel guide will provide you with basic information on how to get there, things to do, where to stay, suggested itinerary and estimated budget that will help you plan your visit to the "undiscovered paradise of Biliran".

HOW TO GET THERE

By Air
Tacloban City is the gateway to Biliran Island. Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirPhilExpress and Zest Air has several flights daily from Manila to Tacloban City. From there, you could take a passenger van (Duptours, Van-Van's) going to Naval (130 PHP), the capital municipality of Biliran. Travel time from Tacloban to Biliran is around 2.5 hours.

By Sea
If you're coming from Cebu, you could ride a ferry boat going to Ormoc City, Leyte (several departures daily, 3 to 5 hours travel time), then take an aircon shuttle van that connects the trip to Naval, Biliran. You can also take a direct ferry ride from Cebu to Naval (travel time is around 8 hours, 2 times per week only).

Leyte - An Imeldific Side Trip to Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum in Tacloban City

After chasing the waterfalls in Biliran, I went back to Tacloban City for my late afternoon flight back to Manila. Since I still have an hour to burn, I decided to have a side trip to one of the most visited tourist spots in the city. The Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum is one of the 29 presidential rest houses that the late President Ferdinand Marcos built during his term. It is said that former first lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos had it constructed as the first family’s residence in Tacloban City.

Biliran - Iyusan Rice Terraces and Mainit Hot Spring

Aside from the beaches and waterfalls, Biliran has more to offer. On our way to chase the waterfalls, we passed by some interesting land formations that the local farmers here use for planting rice. The Iyusan Rice Terraces can be found in Barangay Iyusan in the municipality of Almeria, just 20 minutes away from the capital town of Naval. We pass through these rice terraces on our way to Bagongbong waterfalls.

Chasing Waterfalls in Biliran - Bagongbong, Tinago and Casiawan Falls

The "undiscovered paradise" of Biliran boasts to have a number of magnificent and jaw-dropping waterfalls. Even with a limited time, I was lucky to visit three of them. So, after paying a visit to the Nuestra Señora dela Paz y Buenviaje Shrine in Almeria, we were off to literally chase waterfalls in this island. We visited Bagongbong waterfalls in Almeria, then the famous Tinago Falls in Caibiran and lastly, to Casiawan Falls in Cabucgayan.

Biliran - Agta Beach and Nuestra Señora dela Paz y Buenviaje Church

Despite being sick, I woke up early on my 2nd day in Biliran to explore this "undiscovered paradise". I went out of the hostel to find a habal-habal (single motorcycle) that could bring me to the town of Almeria. I heard, there’s a nice beach there, so I have to check it out. Not knowing which resort should I go, I just told the driver to bring me to Agta Beach. He suggested VRC Resort, I agreed. Fare is 30 pesos and travel time is about 20 minutes.

Biliran - En Route to the "Undiscovered Paradise" of Biliran

Biliran is an island province located north of Leyte, about 123 kilometers from Tacloban City. It was formerly a sub-province of Leyte until it was converted into a province in 1992. With a total land area of 555.4 square kilometers, Biliran is the fourth smallest province in the Philippines. It is composed of two major islands, Biliran and Maripipi Islands. Other islands include Higatangan and the inhabited Dalutan islands.

Pinoy Holidays : Four-day Long Weekend Holiday from October 29 to November 1, 2011

There will be a 4-day long weekend holiday throughout Philippines from October 29 to November 1, 2011. Yesterday, Malacañang Palace issued Proclamation 265 declaring October 31 as a special (non-working) holiday. As stated, the proclamation is "to give full opportunity to our people to properly observe the day with all its religious fervor which invariably requires them to travel to and from different regions of the country. Monday, 31 October 2011, may be declared as a special (non-working) day without detriment to public interest".

Climbing Tip : Mt. Gulugod Baboy - How To Get There, Itinerary, Side Trips, Expenses and Contact Details

HOW TO GET THERE

From Manila to Anilao
Take any Batangas City bound bus and get off at Bauan diversion (fare is around 140 PHP). From there, you can take a jeepney going to Mabini (30 PHP) and tell the driver to drop you at the corner going to Philpan Dive Resort in Anilao. From there, you can take a tricycle going to Philpan (90 PHP/tricycle), which is the jump-off point. Alternatively, you may opt to charter a jeepney (1,200 PHP) from Bauan diversion going to the jump-off point to avoid transferring from one jeepney to another. Accross Philpan resort, you will see a cemented path going up, this is the start of the hike.

RESORTS IN ANILAO BATANGAS: Post-climb Swimming at Aquaventure Reef Club in Anilao

I'm done with the mountaineering part of this trip. Let me now bring you to the more relaxing part of it. Post-climb swimming!!! Woohoo!!! So, when we reached the jump-off point of the climb, we checked on Philpan Dive Resort to freshen up with a good swim. But the beach's waves are "un-swim-able" due to the big waves at that time, we opted to find a resort nearby with a swimming pool.

Batangas - A Bright and Shining Morning at Mt. Gulugod Baboy

Thank God! The sun was bright and shining on our 2nd day in Mt. Gulugod Baboy. It's still early and cold outside, but some of my friends were already up and preparing breakfast for everyone. Yes, I'm wide awake, but my body is aching from the not so comfortable sleep on rocky, uneven soil where we pitch our tent. And I had to convince myself a couple of times before I decided to get up. Hahaha!!!

Batangas - Mt. Gulugod Baboy, The Sosyal Klaymers' 2nd Anniversary Climb

Time really flies so fast, we never thought that it has been 2 years already. We're now celebrating our mountaineering group’s 2nd Anniversary. It was in 2009 when a group of young, energetic, adventurous individuals climbed Mt. Gulugod Baboy. It was my 2nd climb and it inflamed my love for mountaineering and the outdoors.

BEACH RESORTS IN LA UNION: Enjoying the Beach and the Aqua-adventure Activities at Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point

Time flies so fast when you're having a great time. It’s already our last day at Thundebird Resorts in Poro Point, La Union. Sigh! Anyway, since we've already finished all the team building activities set for us, it's now time for more recreation, fun and excitement. Despite not having enough sleep because of last night's party, me and some friends still managed to wake up early to experience the beach and some of the resort’s aqua-adventure activities.

HOTELS IN LA UNION: A Luxurious Resort Accommodation at Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point

Working in the IT industry is quite stressful. That's why, weekend getaways organized by our company is what we’re always waiting for. This gives us a time to relax, have fun and enjoy nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Last August, we were able to experience an overnight stay in Thunderbird Resorts, a world-class resort located in Poro Point La Union. It felt like spending a vacation in Santorini, Greece with your friends just to relax and enjoy the blissfulness of a happy life.

TRAVEL GUIDE: Things To Do In La Union (Tourist Spots and Attractions)

Looking for La Union Travel Guide? I hope this helps!

I've been to La Union for several times. It's a usual stop over during my trips to Baguio City and Ilocos Sur some years back. It was only last year, when I tried to ride the waves of San Juan beach, that I actually spent ample time in this province. I was with my Sosyal Klaymer friends then and we had a whole day of surfing and swimming, plus a side trip to some interesting spots in the city center. This La Union Trave Guide will give you an insight on the Things to Do and to Experience in the town of San Juan and San Fernando City, La Union.

Travel Guide : Masbate City - How To Get There, Accommodations, Transportation, Itinerary, Expenses and Contact Details

HOW TO GET THERE

By Air
Philippine Airlines, AirPhilExpress and Zest Air has flights from Manila to Masbate City daily and on schedule. This is the same and only flight out of Masbate to Manila. At the moment, all trips are in the morning, adjust your itinerary accordingly. Travel time is about an hour.

By Land/Sea
From Manila, take a bus going to Pilar, Sorsogon. Pilar is the main port of Southern Luzon island and it is located just outside Sorsogon City. From there, it is a two hour ride on a FastCraft.

Pinoy Food : Don't Forget to Bring Home Some Deliciously Creamy “Pasalubong” when you Visit Masbate

Masbate's best OTOP (One Town, One Product) specialty could be the "Carmelado", the province's version of the Pastillas de Leche. This native delicacy is made of pure carabao’s milk and a little of white sugar. Cut into thin rectangular shapes and wrapped in white paper, it can be found in the ports of Masbate and flea markets.

Masbate - The Simple and Laidback Way of Life in a Provincial City

After enjoying Bituon Beach in Mobo, I went back to Masbate City to see how it is to live in a provincial city. I asked the tricycle driver to bring me to the city center because I'm interested in seeing the sites, the landmarks and how is it to spend a weekend here.

Masbate - A Relaxing Swim at Bituon Beach in Mobo, Masbate

Four days after my Solo Northern Mindanao Adventure, I was again on the road to explore a province that is not frequented by tourists. It was a quick solo trip but I was able to enjoy a beach and become acquainted with what and how a provincial city life is. Masbate is a province south of Manila and is located in the Bicol Region. It’s capital is Masbate city and consists of three major islands, namely Masbate, Ticao and Burias.

TRAVEL GUIDE : 3-day Northern Mindanao Adventure : Summary, Itinerary and Expenses

This Northern Mindanao Solo Adventure is a series of blog posts during my visit to the provinces of Misamis Oriental, Camiguin and Bukidnon last August 6-8, 2011. To date, these provinces are the 31st, 32nd and 33rd provinces on my list. Also, this is my 7th solo trip and my first time to set foot in Northern Mindanao.

TRAVEL GUIDE : Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental - How To Get There, Accommodations, Transportation, Expenses, Itinerary and Contact Details

HOW TO GET THERE

From Cagayan de Oro City Airport to City Center
Taxis are available at the airport, it will cost you around 250 to 300 PHP going to the city center. But if you are on a tight budget, Carmen bound jeepneys are available outside the airport. For only 17 PHP, this is the cheapest way to the city center. Travel time is about 30 minutes.

From Carmen to Plaza Divisoria
Take a jeepney bound for Bonbon and tell the driver to drop you off at Plaza Divisoria. Travel time is about 15 minutes. Fare is 7 PHP.

From the City Center to Cagayan de Oro City Airport
Take a jeepney bound for Carmen and get off at KSY, fare is 7 PHP. From there, take a Lumbia bound jeepney which passes by the airport, fare is about 18 PHP and travel time is around 30 minutes.

Misamis Oriental - Sauntering Around Cagayan de Oro City

After surviving the ziplines in Dahilayan Adventure Park and being stunned by Manolo Fortich’s vast pineapple plantations, I went back to Cagayan de Oro City to check out of my hostel. Since I haven’t really been around the city and I still have a couple of hours to burn before my flight back to Manila, I took a leisurely walk around the busy city and checked on some of its interesting sites.

The Most Unforgettable People I've Met on the Road

Independence Day Celebration with the NBFI
BEST GROUP : NBFI - Aurora

I met this group on my visit to the province of Aurora last June. It’s good to know that there are environmental groups such as the Noble Blue Falcons International (NBFI) - environmentalists, peace crusaders. A pro-environment non-government organization with a membership of at least 2 million worldwide, of which more than 400,000 members are in the Philippines. The group organizes environmental awareness campaigns, forest watch and monitoring as well as reforestation under its diverse environmental programs.