Year-end Special: Thank You 2012! My Most Travel-filled Year (yet...)

2012 is indeed my most travel-filled year (yet...). 39 new provinces. 19 provinces re-visited. 12 mountains conquered. 5 festivals attended. Countless plane, boat, roro, ferry, bus, van, jeepney, tricycle, trisikad and habal-habal rides. Numerous fun-filled adventures. A lot of new friendships built. Just 1 goal: "to inspire people to live their dreams, to travel and find their own adventure of a lifetime!"

Cavite - Maytinis Festival 2012, a Well-loved Caviteño Tradition

An old Caviteño tradition, the Maytinis Festival is an annual Christmas Eve event organized by the "Confradia de Sagrada Familia" in collaboration with the parish priest in the town of Kawit, province of Cavite. People from Kawit, other towns and visitors from nearby provinces, flock to this town to witness the event. The procession started with a fireworks display at around 6:00 PM in Aguinaldo Shrine.

Leyte - Palo Christmas Festival 2012

Here's another Christmas destination you shouldn't miss this yuletide season. The Palo Christmas Festival in Palo Leyte! Together with Eric of Byahilo.com, Ms. Ludette and Sir Gerry Ruiz of Leyte Gulf Travel and Tours, we attended the opening ceremony last December 14, 2012 held at the Palo public plaza in front of Palo Cathedral.

Cavite - Christmas Lights and Sound Show at Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite

The historic town of Kawit, Cavite holds a nightly lights and sound show at the mansion of General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippine Republic. Every night, people from Kawit, nearby towns and even from Manila come to Aguinaldo Shrine to witness the spectacular display of dazzling lights that dance to the tune of Christmas songs.

Aklan - Arriving in Boracay, a Weekend Getaway with Friends

Boracay is probably one of the most popular beaches in the Philippines and a favorite leisure spot among local and foreign tourists. Located at the northwestern tip of Panay Island, its beaches were acclaimed as one of the best in the world. I've been to Boracay last February this year, alone. So when my friends planned a trip last October, I quickly said yes! Why? Because I know it will be a whole new experience with them.

Road Trips and Adventures, Spending Happy Times Together

As they say, Filipino families are one of the closest with each other. It is really important that you spend quality time with your family and have some time to bond with the people that matters to you most. We, as a family, see to it that we find time to spend with each other on road trips and adventures on a weekend with my brothers, cousins and relatives. This way, we get to talk, learn more things about ourselves and have better relationships.

Pampanga - Giant Lantern Festival 2012, a Spectacular Symphony of Lights!

Dubbed as the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines", roads led to San Fernado City, Pampanga last weekend for the annual Ligligan Parul or the Giant Lantern Festival. Eleven barangays showcased their giant lanterns during the exhibition night at Robinson's Starmills Pampanga.

Zamboanga City - Pascua na Zamboanga, Christmas in Asia's Latin City!

Christmas is so alive in Zamboanga City! Families and friends flock to the City Plaza every night to watch the lights at the well decorated City Hall. The lights somehow dance to the tune of Christmas carols with bubble machines accentuating every blink of the Christmas lights. The adjacent parks were also decorated with Christmas lanterns, lights and a huge nativity statue.

Travel Tip: How to Get in and Out of Butuan (Bancasi) Airport

Butuan's Bancasi Airport is the gateway to the province of Agusan del Norte and the rest of the CARAGA Region. Daily flights to and from Manila, as well as to and from Cebu are serviced by major airlines. Unlike other airports in the Philippines, getting in and out of the airport is easy.

KALINGA TOURIST SPOTS: The Charm of the Sleeping Beauty

One astounding sight in Tinglayan, Kalinga that you shouldn't miss is the Sleeping Beauty Mountain. Also known as Mt. Patukan, it is a mountain ridge located between the municipalities of Tanudan and Tinglayan. It is called as such because it resembles to a sleeping woman lying on its back.

Win 2 Overnight Accommodation Vouchers at The Circle Hostel!

The Circle Hostel - Zambales
We stayed at The Circle Hostel when we went to Liwliwa, Zambales for a surfing weekend early this year. I made a review about it because we truly enjoyed our overnight stay at the hostel. I want you to experience the same unique accommodation they offer! In partnership with The Circle Hostel, I'm giving away two (2) vouchers for an overnight hammock stay at any Circle Hostel branches (Zambales or La Union) to one (1) lucky winner.

THINGS TO DO IN KALINGA: Attending the Easter Mass and a Wedding Ritual

It was Black Saturday when we visited Tinglayan in Kalinga Province. We were able to attend the anticipated Easter Sunday mass in the village of Luplupa's church. The celebration started outside the church with the burning of some woods where the paschal candle was lit. Surrounded by the locals, prayers were recited in celebration of Easter. Then we went inside the church for the mass.

Philippines' Famous Tourist Attractions from Up Above

Whenever I fly, I always request for a window seat. I just love seeing how beautiful our country is from up above. Have you ever wonder how the Philippines' famous tourist attractions look like up in the air? Here are some photos of Mayon Volcano, San Juanico Bridge, Taal Volcano and Boracay Island as I captured them from the window of the plane. Enjoy!

What to expect on the Oasis Of The Seas

The list of amenities on-board the Oasis Of The Seas is a lengthy one indeed. To say the Royal Caribbean ship is well equipped would be an enormous understatement and if you like your cruise ships packed with pubs, play areas, restaurants and outdoor activity options then the Oasis might just be the vessel for you and your party.

THINGS TO DO IN KALINGA: Meeting the Tattooed Women of Tinglayan

Going to Tinglayan, all I wanted is to see a tattooed woman; those that I only read on text books during my school days. History tells us that these women have their tattoos as ornaments which signifies beauty and makes them more attractive to their suitors. Some have it like a necklaces and full sleeves on their arms. While for the men, it is a sign of bravery as warriors who have killed their enemies.

HOTELS IN MANILA: Grand Prix Hotel - Manila

Grand Prix Hotel is a chain of econotels that offer travelers, transients and tourists an experience of safe, clean and affordable hotel accommodation. They boast to provide efficient hotel services that are personalized and can be at par with high-end accommodations. They are located in key cities such as Manila, Pasay, Quezon City, Tarlac, Boracay, Cebu and soon in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. They don't just offer high quality service but an experience worth remembering.

THINGS TO DO IN KALINGA: Exploring the Villages of LupLupa, Old Tinglayan and Ambato Legleg

After fixing our things at Luplupa Riverside Inn, we asked for a guide to help us explore the place. Going to Tinglayan, we actually don't have any itinerary, all I know is I want to see the remaining women with native Filipino tattoos. Upon asking at the riverside inn, German, a son of one of the guides of the Inn, volunteered to show us around the villages of Luplupa, Old Tinglayan and Ambato-Legleg. So, what's to see in Tinglayan?

ABRA TRAVEL GUIDE: Bangued Tourist Spots and Attraction (A DIY Walking Tour Itinerary)

ABRA TRAVEL GUIDE: Things To Do, Tourist Spots and Attractions in Bangued

Whenever I travel, I always do walking tours around the place I visit. It's actually one of my favorite activities! I enjoy walking and wandering around while savoring the place's different interesting sights, attractions, tourist spots, trying out local food and interacting with the people around the community. Last May 26, 2012 I was able to roam around the town of Bangued, the capital town of Abra.

Win an Overnight Hotel Accommodation on Pinoy Adventurista's Christmas Giveaway!

I love adventures! Be it on land, air or sea, I'm more than willing to try it! Surfing, riding the zip lines, mountain climbing, spelunking... What ever it is, we define our own adventure! Share us your most daring adventure in the Philippines and win exciting prizes!

Kalinga - En Route to Tinglayan

After wandering around Bontoc where we visited some interesting sites and witnessed the parade during the Lang-ay Festival, we hopped into the bus bound for Tabuk in Kalinga province. It will pass by the town of Tinglayan where we plan to spend another night. The bus is full of locals and foreigners heading to their destinations. It’s good to see foreigners exploring not just the usual tourist attractions in the Philippines but also the remotest villages.

Negros Occidental - Revisiting Silay's Ancestral Houses

I love heritage houses! It brings me back to the olden times and let me feel a certain awe when I see these houses - especially when they are well preserved. Of all the places with heritage houses I've been to, Silay City in Negros Occidental is one of my favorites. It boasts to have 29 declared heritage houses by the National Historical Institute as National Treasures.

Pinoy Festivals: Giant Lantern Festival 2012 on December 15 in San Fernando City Pampanga

Photo courtesy of City of San Fernando, Pampanga Facebook Page

The Giant Lantern Festival or "Ligligan Parul" is an annual event held in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga every December. This year, it will be held on December 15, 2012 at Robinson's Starmills Pampanga where several barangays will showcase their giant lanterns to compete for the top prize. Surely, it will be another grand display of spectacular lights, interplay of colors and kaleidoscopic patterns accompanied by lively Christmas songs.

SAGADA TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG - DIY Itinerary, Tourist Spots, Things To Do, How To Get There, Expenses, and more!

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Sagada, Mountain Province is located in the northern part of Luzon. Nestled in the Cordillera mountain range, this popular tourist attraction has been a favorite among local and foreign travelers and backpackers. It is most well-known for its hanging coffins, their traditional way of burying departed loved ones. But there are a lot sights to behold, things to do and activities to enjoy in Sagada. This travel guide will provide you with basic information on the tourist spots and attractions, how to get there, things to do, where to stay, suggested itinerary and estimated budget that will help you plan your visit. Enjoy Sagada's peace and serenity, its rusty idyllic atmosphere, cool climate and most especially, the friendly people.

Pinoy Festivals : Photos from Masskara Festival 2012 Street Dance Performance (Barangay Category)

The street dancing competition for the Barangay Category at the Masskara Festival 2012 was held last October 21, 2012 at Araneta St. in Bacolod City. There were 14 contingent barangays from the "City of Smiles" that competed for the championship crown. The street dancing competition comprises 50% of the total score, while the other 50% was judged at the arena competition held at the city public plaza.

Travel Tip: How to Get in and Out of Bacolod-Silay International Airport

The Bacolod-Silay International Airport is located in Barangay Bagtic in Silay City, some 15 kilometers northeast of Bacolod City. Due to its location, getting in and out of the airport is quite a challege especially for first-timers. Here are some of the ways on how to get in and out of the airport terminal.

Pinoy Festivals: Photos from Masskara Festival 2012 Street Dance Performance (School Category)

Araneta street in Bacolod City was on festive mood as the Street Dancing competition for the schools category of Masskara Festival happened last Saturday, October 20, 2012. Street performance comprises 50% of the total score while the other 50% is judged during the arena competition at the City Public Plaza.

Mountain Province - Wandering Around Bontoc

After exploring Sagada for 2 days and 2 nights, we left the hostel early in the morning to get to our next destination - Tinglayan in the province of Kalinga. But before getting there we have to pass through the town of Bontoc, the capital of Mountain Province. We need to be there early so we could catch the first bus trip to Tabuk.

TRAVEL TIP: How to Get in and Out of Zamboanga City Airport

Dubbed as "Asia's Latin City", Zamboanga City's international airport is located very near the city center. As a major gateway of Zamboanga City and the Zamboanga Peninsula Provinces it is one of the busiest airports in Mindanao. It serves flights from Manila, Davao, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Jolo (Sulu) and Tawi-Tawi. Unlike other airports in the Philippines, getting in and out of the airport is easy.

Top 5 Landmarks in the Philippines

The Philippines is one of the most naturally beautiful destinations in the world. The capital city of Manila provides a unique contrast between the hustle and bustle of everyday life and the natural beauty that surrounds it. Whether you’re looking for the adventure of a lifetime, a historical walk through a magnificent culture or simply want to visit some of the best landmarks in the world, there is no beating a holiday in the Philippines.

Pinoy Festivals: Bacolod MassKara Festival 2012 Street and Arena Dance Competitions winners (Barangay and School Categories)

The City of Smiles, Bacolod City once again staged a very successful Masskara Festival. The highlights happened last October 20-21, 2012 with the street and arena dance competitions for the school and barangay categories respectively. The street dance happened at Araneta Avenue, while the arena dance were performed at the City Public Plaza.

TRAVEL GUIDE : Daet, Camarines Norte - Tourist Spots and Attractions, How To Get There, Things To Do, Where To Stay and Expenses

Camarines Norte is located in the northwestern coast of the Bicol Peninsula. It is known for mining, jewelry craft, pineapple and coconut industry. In terms of tourism, it offers a lot of tourist spots and attractions to visit and activities that can be done in the province - surfing, beach bumming, island hopping, chasing waterfalls, church visits and more! This travel guide will provide you with basic information on how to get there, things to do, where to stay and estimated budget that will help you plan your visit. Tara Lets! Come to CamNorte!

Surfing in Bagasbas Beach, Daet, Camarines Norte

Bagasbas Beach in Daet, Camarines Norte is one of the top surfing destinations in the Philippines. It is known for its long and wide stretch of fine, gray and powdery sand with big waves that roll in from the Pacific Ocean which makes it an ideal spot for surfers of any level. It is known to provide barrels, that can be experienced between July to November and sometimes, all the way to January. Tara, let's go surfing in Bagasbas!

Cavite - Dancing the Karakol with Nana Pilar

The City of Imus is a first-class component city in the province of Cavite. It is considered as the center of religion in Cavite as the seat of the Diocese of Imus which oversees all the parishes in the province is located here. It's patron saint, Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Our Lady of the Pillar) celebrates its feast day every October 12 with a lot of festivities happening around the City. One of the highlights is the Karakol held on the eve of her feast day.

Camarines Norte - Walking Tour around Daet, "The Gateway to Bicolandia"

Walking tour is one of my favorite activities when traveling. I just love walking and wandering around while enjoying the different sights, trying out local delicacies and interacting with the locals. During my recent trip to Camarines Norte, I was able to roam around the town of Daet, the capital of the province. Since I have a few hours to burn, I just walked around to see what Daet has to offer. This post will also give you an insight on how to do a walking tour around the town.

Camarines Norte - Mercedes Fish Port, Cayucyucan Beach, Catandunganon River and Top Loading on a Tricycle

On my 2nd day in Daet, my friend suggested that I go to Cayucyucan Beach in one of the islands in the town of Mercedes. From the hotel, I took a jeepney bound for Mercedes, after about 15 minutes I reached the Mercedes fish port. As it was still very early in the morning, the fish port is so busy with fishermen arriving with their fresh catch. I was able to witness what they call "Bulungan sa Pandawan", a trading practice where bidders whisper to the fish broker his price and whoever bids the highest gets the fish.

Camarines Norte - Visiting the 400-year-old Vinzons Church, the Oldest Church in Camarines Norte

Established in 1611, the St. Peter the Apostle Church (also known as the Parroquia de San Pedro Apostol) in Vinzons, Camarines Norte is considered as the "oldest church in the province". The most distinguishable feature of the church is the central niche in the facade with a statue of St. Peter surrounded by an intricate frame. On the left is a 5-storey square bell tower with a cone-shape top.

Pinoy Holidays : October 26, 2012 is a Regular Holiday in the Philippines

Another long weekend in the Philippines is coming up! Yesterday, President Benigno Aquino signed Proclamation No. 488, s. 2012, DECLARING FRIDAY, 26 OCTOBER 2012, AS A REGULAR HOLIDAY THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY, IN OBSERVANCE OF EIDUL ADHA (FEAST OF SACRIFICE).

Camarines Norte - Wenceslao Q. Vinzons Ancestral House

Formerly called Indan, the town of Vinzons, Camarines Norte was named after it's homegrown hero, Wenceslao Q. Vinzons. He is a a lawyer, hero of World War II, governor of Camarines Norte and one of the youngest members of the 1934 Constitutional Convention. His two-storey ancestral house in Vinzons was declared a National Historical Landmark in 1991 by the National Historical Institute.

Camarines Sur - Viva La Virgen de Peñafrancia! My Peñafrancia Festival 2012 Experience

Naga City's Peñafrancia Festival is considered as the grandest Marian Celebration in the country. Catholics and Bicolanos from different parts of the world unite in faith in manifesting their sincere devotion to the beloved "Ina" and patroness of Bicol - the Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Celebrated last September 15, 2012, the fluvial procession is the culminating event of the festival as thousands of devotees flock to Naga City, Camarines Sur to join the festivities as the image of Ina was transferred back to her shrine, the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia.

EAT-tinerary: Where to Eat in Sagada (Restaurants in Sagada)

A Sagada experience will not be complete without sampling the dishes at known restaurants in Sagada such as Salt and Pepper Diner and Yoghurt House. As well as some hole in the wall diners such as Vincent's Coffee and Grill. Food is an integral part of every travel. Aside from the sights and interesting places to visit in my destination, I also make it a point to search on the internet for the good food to try in place I am visiting. When it comes to food, you will surely enjoy Sagada as there are a lot of food options to choose from. Where to eat in Sagada? Read on...

Mountain Province - Zip lining over Sagada's Kapay-aw Rice Terraces

I love zip lines. That's why whenever I travel and if there's a zip line in my destination, I see to it that I get to try it. On our way to Sumaguing Cave on our first day in Sagada, we learned that there's already a zip line here. Unfortunately, we didn't get to try it as it was already closed when we passed by on our way back to the town. So, on our 2nd day, after climbing Mt. Ampacao, we went back to the zip line to try it.

South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani, my 72nd, 73rd and 74th Provinces!

Last August 3-6, 2012, I went on a journey with my friends Rom and Edmund to South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani; my 72nd, 73rd and 74th Provinces! We had so much fun trying out local cuisines, riding the zip line, exploring the waterfalls, checking out a capitol building, museum and ancestral houses, meeting a national living artist, beach bumming and pasalubong shopping. We really had an awesome time just hanging around and exploring the stunning sights of these provinces in SOCKSARGEN Region.

Mountain Province - Climbing Mt. Ampacao, the Highest Peak in Sagada

We woke up early on our 2nd day in Sagada. After a hefty breakfast at the hostel, we started to walk towards the jump-off site of Mt. Ampacao near the Ambasing Elementary School. It only takes about 40 minutes of walk to reach it coming from the town center. Towering at 1,889 MASL, Mt. Ampacao is considered as the highest peak in Sagada, thus it offers a breath-taking view of the town.

Mountain Province - Spelunking at Sumaguing Cave in Sagada

Spelunking is one of my favorite adventure activities. I like the challenge of getting inside the cave and being rewarded with stunning rock formations, stalactites and slagmites. It also makes your creative mind work as you can think of too many things as to what a certain rock formation is. So when we planned for this Sagada trip, I made sure that we will explore Sumaguing Cave.

Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay and Zamboanga del Norte, my 69th, 70th and 71st provinces!

I had an awesome weekend exploring the provinces of Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay and Zamboanga del Norte last July 12-15, 2012. My 69th, 70th and 71st provinces! Special thanks to Doc Wends of Journeys and Travels for accommodating me in Pagadian and for bringing me to Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay. I had so much fun exploring the different interesting sites around Zamboanga Peninsula!

SAGADA TRAVEL GUIDE: 11 THINGS TO DO IN SAGADA (Tourist Spots, Attractions and Things To Do and Experience)

Sagada Budget Travel Guide

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Sagada is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Dubbed as the "Shangri-la of the Philippines", there are a lot of activities that can be enjoyed here. You can do trekking, spelunking, waterfalls hiking, visiting historical sites, food trip and a lot more. As first-timers, we enjoyed the peace and serenity of the place, the rusty idyllic atmosphere, it's cool climate and most especially, the friendliness of the people. You can find many places and do many things in Sagada. ON this Sagada Travel Guide, I listed of some of Sagada's must-see tourist spots, attractions and things to do and experience - especially for first-timers.

Mountain Province - Stopover at Bay-yo Rice Terraces in Bontoc

Another stopover that shouldn't be missed when you're traveling to Sagada, Mountain Province from Banaue, Ifugao is the Bay-yo Rice Terraces. Located in the village of Bay-yo in the town of Bontoc, this lush green rice terraces in the southern slope of Mt. Polis is truly exceptional compared to the rice terraces I've seen in Banaue.

Maguindanao, my 68th Province!

Last July 7 and 8, 2012, I had an enriching weekend trip in Cotabato City and Maguindanao, the 68th province on my list. I am glad to travel with my fellow travel bloggers Eric of Byahilo: Ito ang Trip ko! and Bernie of HabagatCentral.com. It was a weekend of learning new things, experiencing a different culture, appreciating great architectures, and trying out new food.

Nescafé 3in1 Serendipics Blog Give Away on pinoyadventurista.com

Photo taken from Nescafe Philippines Fan page
Nescafé Philippines just launched it's latest Facebook app, the Nescafé 3in1 Serendipics Photo contest. When I learned about it, I hurriedly logged-in into my facebook account, liked the Nescafé Philippines Facebook page, went to the app, read the mechanics, registered and uploaded a "serendipitous" photo I took in one of my recent travels. That's it! It's so easy!

Ifugao - Seeing the Banaue Rice Terraces, "A Childhood Dream Fulfilled!"

The Banaue Rice Terraces are the wonderful works of our ancestors in Ifugao province. Carved into the mountains some 2000 years ago, it is still being used to plant rice, vegetables and other crops. It's "a childhood dream come true" for me to see it as I grew up learning it from the Social Studies books I have in grade school. I am delighted to finally see it for myself.