4D5N Sorsogon + Albay Backpacking

DIY Travel Guide: Bicol (Sorsogon + Albay ) Backpacking
DIY Travel Guide: Matnog, Sorsogon
 Tourist Spots in Sorsogon
DIY Travel Guide: Vanishing Island, Malilipot, Albay

In the middle of the ocean of Malilipot, Albay you will discover a spell-binding force of nature that surprisingly emerges when the tide recedes. It is believed to have come about as a result of the of the huge waves that hit the area during strong typhoons,  and it is not surprising how this charming and beautiful newly discovered island has become a main tourist attraction of Albay.

The Island

Vanishing Island was the name given to this magical place because it literally vanishes during high tide; not there, gone, nada! It is not your common as chickens type white sand island, it is what as known as a sandbar by boffins with thick lens glasses. Will this matter to you when you visit? No way Jose, you think you’re on an island but without trees and a McDonalds.

The island is an hour away from either Tabacco or Bacacay Port and if you need a visual pointer you will know you are near when you can see in the distance tiny cottages that appear to be floating on the ocean.

During high tide, most adults can wade through the water no more than knee-high, but maybe that might be too deep for the younger kids, it also deep enough to enjoy the swimming and the quality of the emerald green water is amazing. When the low tide comes and the water disappears, the magical island begins to appear, so hurry before the place becomes crowded!

How to get there?

From Legazpi City, look for passenger Van at Legazpi Bus Terminal that is en-route to Bacacay, Albay. Travel time takes around 30 minutes. From the last stop of the passenger van, Bacacay Port is already walking distance.  The fare should not be more that 50pesos. Once at the port, look for passenger boat that has trips to Vanishing Island. If there are no available passenger boats, you may opt to rent a boat for 1,000 pesos good for 10. Travel time by sea will take around an hour from the port.

For our case, we contacted the Love Boat Tours Agency to assist us in our Vanishing Island trip. We paid 250/pax as joiners. Please note that the fee is only for the RT boat transfer.  You may contact them thru 0916-293-8743.

Where to Stay?

There are floating cottages available on the island that costs 500 pesos or higher depending on the size of the cottage that you will rent.

Best Budget Hotels in Albay

Mayon Backpackers Hostel From around Php 260  Compare prices here	Night and Day Inn – BonotFrom Around Php 520  Compare prices here
Magayon Hotel From around Php 620  Compare prices here	Legazpi Tourist Inn From around Php 545  Compare prices here

Food?

It is advisable that you bring your packed lunch, snacks and drinking water with you because there is only one store on the island.

Disclaimer: Not a white sand island but is surely satisfying especially when you realize that you can actually enjoy swimming while being mesmerized by the beauty of Mayon Volcano from here.

For our cottage, we got it for free. Thanks to Miss Gemma, our new found friend!

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The Kayak Inn is the starting point for some upbeat activities that include river kayaking, rafting, mountain biking and chasing waterfalls.

HOW TO GET THERE?

From Kalibo: Ride a tricycle to Ceres Bus Terminal. Then ride a bus bound for San Jose, Antique and get off at Brgy. Importante (also known as “crossing”). Travel time is 2.5 hours. From Brgy. Importante, ride a habal-habal to Kayak Inn.

From  Caticlan: Take a bus bound to San Jose, Antique, drop by at Brgy. Importante (also known as “crossing”). Bus fare is 150php and bus ride for 2 hours. Then, rent a habal-habal to Kayak Inn,

From Roxas City: Take a van bound for Kalibo cost 150php. Travel time is 1 hours and 45 minutes. From Kalibo, ride a tricycle to Ceres Bus Terminal. Then ride a bus bound for San Jose, Antique and alight at Brgy. Importante (also known as “crossing”). Travel time is 2.5 hours. From Brgy. Importante, ride a habal-habal to Kayak Inn.

From Iloilo City:  You may take a bus or van bound for Culasi or Caticlan which can be found at Molo Bus and Van Terminal. Alight at Brgy. Importante (also known as “crossing”). Travel time is approximately 3 hours. From Brgy. Importante, ride a habal-habal to Kayak Inn.

From Culasi Port: just a 3-4 minute walk to get to the Ceres Bus terminal drop by at Brgy. Importante (also known as “crossing”). Bus fare is 15php and bus ride for 30 minutes. Then, rent a habal-habal to Kayak Inn.

SAMPLE ITINERARY:

See Full Itinerary here:

DIY TRAVEL GUIDE: 4-DAY PANAY ISLAND + NEGROS OCCIDENTAL ADVENTURE

BUDGET:

• Entrance fee: 50php
• Habal-Habal Return Trip: 140php
• Accommodation: Kayak Inn 250/head/night fan room supplied bed sheet, bedspread, pillows, towels, soap & with breakfast
•  Kawa Hot Bath 250/person/30 minutes

TRAVEL TIPS:

1. While waiting for your turn, you can swim first at Tibiao River for free.
2. There is no cellphone signal in the place.
3. At Kayak Inn, you can charge your phone/batteries for free.
4. They also serve food for a cost of 300php.
5. Negotiate! Negotiate! Negotiate! Haggle when you can.

Where to stay in Antique

La Parola Orchid Beach Resort From around Php 1,800  Compare prices here	Ucoy Beach Resort From Around Php 1,900  Compare prices here
Pandan Beach Resort From around Php 400  Compare prices here	Kayak Inn Tibiao From around Php 500  Compare prices here

OTHER ACTIVITES:

See Full Itinerary here:

Related Blogs
DIY Travel Guide: Malalison / Mararison Island Solo Backpacking
Kawa Hot Bath Travel Guide – Tibiao, Antique
DIY Travel Guide: Campuestohan + The Ruins, Negros Occidental
Travel Guide to Garin Farm, Iloilo

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Location: Benguet, Ifugao, Nueva Vizcaya

Elevation: 2,922 masl

Mountain range: Cordillera Central

Easiest route: Ambangeg Trail (Artista Trail)

Parent range: Cordillera Central

Guide: Mandatory/Required

Major jump-off: Ambangeg Ranger Station, Bokod, Benguet

Days required | Hours to summit: 4-5 hours | 1-2 days

Specs: Major Climb | Difficulty 3/9| Trail class 1-2

Features: Sea of Clouds | Mossy Oak Forest | Pine Forest | Dwarf Bamboo Slopes

Mt. Pulag (Pul-ag) which means bald because there are no trees from grassland to summit and is known as Luzon’s highest peak and the country’s third. The locals believe in a superstition that it is a resting place and playground of their gods and part of it is also a burial site.

My cousins and I have been wanting to go to Mt. Pulag ever since we saw photos of the sea of clouds. The first rays of the sun break on the horizon and warm orange light slowly seeps through the rolling sea of clouds as they break against the mountain peaks of Luzon’s highest pinnacles; it exceeded my wildest expectations!

Of course on any outward trip you’re motivated by the fact that you have something to look forward to, your aspiration, your nirvana; but oh no it was fog! Fog, of course, is a weather term to denote a thick cloud of tiny water droplets suspended in the atmosphere at or near the earth’s surface which obscures or restricts visibility (to a greater extent than mist; strictly, reducing visibility to below 1 km), but the reality is that the effect is a crushing of your expectations and hopes of seeing the infamous sea of clouds as the sun rises on Luzon’s highest peak.

So in short, got none of that! What we did get was a mind-numbing cold, mixed up nicely with a drizzle that seemed to be able to cut through our 3/4 layers of clothing and what seemed to me like a nose that I would have been happy to break off my face it got so itchy from the freezing conditions. Onwards to the summit we struggled, like intrepid mountaineers assaulting the left face of the Eiger, and having conquered the climb our worst fears were confirmed and there was more chance of winning the lottery than getting a good picture.

Top-load Experience!

I can’t say that Baguio is, by any stretch of the imagination, the easiest place to get to from Manila, unless you enjoy 5 hours of bad roads and suspension in a coach!

There was, once upon a time, a commercial flight service, but it closed down almost as quickly as it started and has never been heard from again, so if Richard Branson is reading this, Richard there is a gap in the market here!

From Baguio, we took a jeepney going to Ambangeg with a stopover at Jang-Jang Hanging Bridge for breakfast. There is a hanging bridge at Jang-Jang which is 290 meters long and is one of the longest hanging bridges in Benguet. Because it is situated near an eatery, Jang-Jang has also become a favorite pictorial spot for climbers.  It’s also free of charge!

Jang-Jang Hanging Bridge

Then, you sign in at DENR Station at the start of the climb where you watch a short video that orientates you with the good and bad rules of camping at Mt. Pulag National Park. In short, you will be going into a protected area and you are expected to leave no trace of you ever being there; bring back your garbage folks and stick like glue to the approved trails.

The most popular Ambangeg Trail we were taking is less wearisome of the routes to Mt. Pulag and is a healthy 4-hour hike to the camping area where you break off to rear before the final 2-hour assault at dawn to catch the sunrise. For the Indiana Jones of you, there are more difficult routes including the killer Akiki Trail, which is a draining 8-12 hours of climbing or the quaintly nicknamed ‘bloody trail’, due to the leeches also called “Limatik ” waiting for you on this one!, but otherwise known as the Tawangan trail and Lusod or Ambaguio or Mt. Ugo-Pulag Trail.

Ambangeg Trail Akiki Trail

All the trails begin at the same spot (Ranger Station) and you get to the start by 4 wheel drive jeeps. There are some great views along the way, whichever route you take, including magnificent pines, ‘bonsai’ style miniatures including Mr. Miyagi moss, as well as cabbage terraces.

After we arrived we had some free time, so were lucky enough to be able to watch a cultural show put on by the locals involving dancing accompanied by their local instruments. Yours expected to make a ‘donation’ for the kids and it was all great fun and really enjoyable.

Ranger Station!

Children of Bokod, Benguet

It’s no cosy sleeps ins for this trip and it’s probably worse than being a new recruit to the army as revelry is around 1am to make sure you complete the climb to the top by dawn – you came for the sunrise so, up and at’ em and you can have the spa treatment service on your next trip

Be prepared for around a 4/5 climb to the top, unless your super fit, but your guides are just like Mum and Dad on a car trip when you were kid and kept asking ‘are we there yet?’ They will tell you it’s just a bit longer; not to far now; were almost there and other-assorted phrases intended to sweeten the bitter pill

Water source along the trail near Camp 2

When you eventually get back down to base and fell you can’t carry on, you can hop on the nearby motorbikes, to finish the journey and, for many, is worth the 100 peso cost :)!

It was really a great shame with the adverse weather conditions, but having reached the top once and knowing what to expect in the future, I will redouble my efforts to return soon, so I can finally see for myself, what must truly be a stunning and awe-inspiring spectacle of the sunrise across the ocean of ripple clouds, gently washing against the mountainsides.

Immediately after our Mount Pulag climb, we headed back towards Baguio City with a few quick stops along the way.

First stop was the Ambuklao Dam. The Ambuklao Hydroelectric Power Plant is one of the oldest power plants in the country and was among the first large hydroelectric power plants constructed in the Philippines. Running along the upper portion of the Agno River, Ambuklao Hydro was constructed for power generation and flood control.

  Ambuklao Hydroelectric Powerplant

The final stop was at the GoodTaste Restaurant where the food was really great and then it was back to Baguio where we arrived just before nightfall. Before heading back to Manila our guides handed us certificates for our monumental achievement of conquering Mt Pulag.

It may have been disappointing from a weather perspective, but the new friends, camaraderie, and sense of achievement, more than made up for that and it was a truly memorable and exhilarating trip.

Important Reminders:

1. Medical Certificate is required before the climb. Make sure you have your doctor’s clearance too if you know you may be in a delicate state of health.
2. For mobility and ease of trekking, the use of backpacks is recommended. The rule is to make sure your hands are free so that you can support yourself (or your companions) in case you slip or fall.
3. Waterproof everything! You’ll notice how it gets progressively colder the higher you go. This is especially true in the night, as everything gets moist and wet.
4. Please try to minimize the weight of your backpack. Simply Travel light, no need to brings things not required like a book! (You won’t have time to read it.)  
5. To ensure minimal impact on the environment, make sure you follow the “Leave No Trace” principle.
6. Trash and litter have no place in the wilderness. Campfires are NOT allowed. Picking, gathering, hunting and especially damaging the flora and fauna is strictly prohibited.(no you cant pick them for your vase at home!)
7. The temperature on Mt. Pulag may drop to 2 degrees or less, so make sure you have some warm clothing for the camp at night.
8. Make sure your friends/family know where you are going (unless you’re on the run from the mother in law) Have at least one person know where you will be going, with whom, and when you are expected to return.
9. Attend the pre-climb meeting so you know what to expect and it is also an opportunity for any of your questions to be answered.
10. Respect. Say “Tabi-tabi po.”The local tribes consider the mountain as a sacred place. Learn how to respect.
11. Greet the locals.All the locals in Mt. Pulag are really friendly, so I think, there’s nothing wrong with sharing a smile and a simple nod.
12. Finally and to try to put it as delicately as I can, there are no conventional CR’s so it’s more a question of a squat, if you get the idea!

Things to Bring:

– Jacket at least 2

– Armguard

– Gloves

– Trekking pants/Jogging pants

– Sandals/slippers

– Trekking shoes

– Bonnet/Beanie hat

– Personal First aid kit

– Warming Oil

– Raincoat (Important)

– flashlight /headlamp with extra batteries

– Toiletries

-Towels

– Trail water

– Trail Food (mixed nuts, chocolates, jelly ace)

– Extra Socks

– Extra clothes

– Personal Meds / First-aid Kit

-Insulators

-Tent

How to get there:

Option 1:

To take Ambangeg Trail, take a bus from Manila to Baguio. Victory Liner has Baguio trips every hour.The feee is Php450.

It is best to leave Manila at night around 9pm onwards. Since Manila-Baguio is like a 6-hour-drive, you’ll arrive in Baguio City before dawn.

From Baguio, rent a jeepney to the jump-off point which is at Badabak Ranger Station. There will be 2 stop-overs – 1) Jang-Jang’s Eatery also known as “Kainan” and 2)DENR.

Option 2:

If convenience is your top priority, choose a guided tour.

In our group, my cousins selected the services of Nomad Adventures which cost Php 2,700 which included the following:

– 2 way transportation MANILA – BAGUIO – MANILA

– 2 way transportation BAGUIO – PULAG – BAGUIO

– LGU fee, Camping fee

– Cultural fee, Environmental fee

– Accredited local ranger guide fee

– Expedition leader service

– Meals

– Day 1 Dinner

– Day 2 Breakfast

– Day 2 Lunch

– ID bagtag

– Certificate of Conquest

TEAM NOMAD AND THE GANG!

Photo Credit to Sir Ronald Festijo

Basic Itinerary:

DAY 0

10PM – CALL DAGUPAN BUS CO INC. (CUBAO)

VAN – QUEZON AVE MCDONALDS

11PM – ETD CUBAO – BAGUIO

DAY 1

5AM – ETA BAGUIO

10AM – ETA DENR KABAYAN

12NN – ETA RANGER STATION – REST

FREE TIME

DAY 2

2AM – WAKE- UP CALL, BFAST,FINAL PREP

3AM – START TREK

5AM – ETA CAMP 2, SUNRISE

7AM – START DESCENT

10AM – ETA BACK AT RANGER STATION, EAT MEALS

12NN – ETD RANGER STN – BAGUIO

5PM – ETA BAGUIO, SIDETRIP

7PM – ETD BAGUIO – MANILA

12AM – ETA MANILA

If you are looking for a place to stay in Baguio after that tiring climb, you may check this one out! This place has natural beauty and tranquility, as what my friend Rizanoia described the place. If you want to take a break or  If you are looking for a unique experience while in Baguio you may try glamping at Valleypoint Campsite in Tuba, Benguet.  

Photo credit to Rizanoia

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Where to get cheaper Palawan tours?

Puerto Princesa Tours
 Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour
 Puerto Princesa Hundred Caves
 Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
 Puerto Princesa Chasing Waterfall

El Nido Tours
 El Nido Tour A
 El Nido Tour B
 El Nido Tour C
 El Nido Tour D

BOOK DISCOUNTED PALAWAN TOURS HERE

Everything you read about Palawan talks of stunning seascapes and incredible sunsets etc, but the reality is that it’s all true.

We charged around the island in a hire car which we got from Plong Car Rental (http://www.palawanselfdrivecarrental.com) but there are lots of shared van hire options if you don’t want to do that. We loved the independence it gave us and a few unexpected detours onto unmade roads courtesy of Google Maps idea of the fastest route! 

Google Map’s  suggested the fastest route….funny

One of the other great things about the place is there are still areas of unspoiled natural beauty. The “longest white beach in the Philippines” the Long Beach of San Vicente, has practically no commercial development (as yet) and you can literally be the only human on a stretch of virgin sand and crystal clear water as far as the eye can see. That’s a difficult achievement anywhere in the world!

Accessibility: 3 -4 hours land travel time from Puerto Princesa City/ 2-3 hours from El Nido; From Puerto Princesa Airport, ride a tricycle to San Jose Terminal and take the 3-4 hour bus ride to San Vicente. From the town proper, take a motorcycle tour of the beaches for P350. You might also want to extend the trip to Irawan Beach, which raises the fee to P500 per ride. The motorcycle can accommodate up to 2 passengers, cheaper if you’re with a companion.

Attractions: Daplac Cove, Capari Cove Coral Reefs, Mangrove Forest, Wilson Head, Double Island, Naparay Coral Reefs, Little Baguio Waterfalls

Accommodations: Capari Resort, Peace and Love Resort, Ditchay Bed and Breakfast, John Eric Lodging, Picardal Lodge, Bahay ni Kuya, Station 5, M&D Resort, Nayarani Vilas

Corong-corong, El Nido

Small Lagoon

Hidden Lagoon

BOOK DISCOUNTED PALAWAN TOURS HERE

As far as all the different tours you can do, especially from El Nido, each has its own appeal and there are more booking agent shops in El Nido than you would think possible, so it pays to shop around and ask for pictures of the boat you will in for the day as some have seen better days. If you don’t fancy walking around, most hotels are more than happy to arrange tours for you, but you will pay a premium. Personally speaking the ‘must’ tour to do is the Underground River from the other end of the island; it’s now a new wonder of the world and an amazing testament to the awesome power of nature and the hundreds of bats add an additional layer of interest. 

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Another really nice fact about Palawan is that caters to all budgets from great 5-star luxury to places to sleep that are cheap by any standards.  

In El Nido, we stayed at the Last Frontier hotel, which falls into the middle rank of hotels available, but we were attracted by its beachfront location and mention of sea/beach views from the rooms.

View from Last Frontier.

Aerial view of Corong-corong Beach

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The views are dependent on which ‘mini villa’ you get and if you’re unlucky, like we were, to get this view you had to stand on one foot to the extreme left of the room whilst chanting Gregorian single vocal line music! To be fair it  was a partial view but added to the fact that there were building works (unadvised prior to arrival or booking) that overlooked, courtesy of an uncovered window, directly into the shower and the lack of interest from the staff about the problem, then sure we were feeling bitter considering the costs and numerous other options that, in hindsight, would have been better.

Last Frontier Hotel

Our Villa in Last Frontier Resort

Last Frontier Resort

They also have a pool.

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

As a complete contrasting experience, at the other end of the island, we stayed at the Daluyon Beach & Mountain Resort which was simply wonderful. Great rooms all overlooking (100%) the beach and sea and not more than 20 yards stroll from your veranda or balcony, friendly and charming staff, excellent pool with pool bar, good restaurant and only a stroll along the beach to jump on a boat to go see the Underground River. All in all a really great experience.

Daluyon Beach & Mountain Resort

Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort

Sabang Beach! the location of Daluyon Hotel

Kiddie Pool

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CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

Catching the boat to the Underground River.

If your brave (its not really dangerous!) and in need of a mild adrenaline fix, then have a go at the 800 meter Zip Line experience which, luckily for me, was only a few minutes from Sabang Beach. It costs a reasonable 500 peso and although is over far to quickly (sound familiar ;)??) it’s fun and glides out over the sea. Needless to say there is the obligatory photo call at the finish but its an optional purchase (250 peso a picture).

Zipilicious!

Finally, there are loads of souvenir shops on the way to the airport with every imaginable type of ‘commercial’ memento you could wish to give loved ones on your return; you know the type of thing where they say ‘oh wow thanks so much’ and then stick in a cupboard somewhere and hopefully remember to get out when you drop round next time. The airport is small but ok and one tip is, don’t put your shoes back on after the first security scans as you only have to do it again after checking in! 

Sabang Beach!

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You can’t fail but to love Palawan and we, for sure, will be returning soon.

STAY IN TOUCH WITH MY WORLD OF ADVENTURES BY CHECKING OUT:

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4 DAYS BOHOL ITINERARY

4D3N Bohol Travel Guide
DAY 1: 1,000 pesos Travel Guide to Anda & Candijay, Bohol
DAY 2: Bohol Countryside Tour | 1,000 pesos Travel Guide w/ free Accommodation
DAY 3: Chasing Waterfalls in Dimiao, Bohol
DAY 4: Panglao Island Hopping: Dolphin Watching, Balicasag Island, Virgin Island & Alona Beach

Where to get cheaper Bohol tours?

It’s better to plan your travel so you don’t have to waste hours in thinking if a place to go when you are there plus book your activities online beforehand as its way cheaper than buying it when you get there. For a less hassle trip going around Bohol, discover and book the best activities like:

Reserve Anda Beach, Cabagnow Cave and Candijay Private Tour here

 Bohol Countryside Tour
 Panglao Island Land Tour
 Bohol Countryside with Panglao Highlights
 Bohol Island Hopping
 Tagbilaran Airport (TAG) or Tagbilaran Seaport Transfer for Panglao
 Cebu-Bohol OceanJet Ferry Ticket

MORE ACTIVITIES

Anda and Candijay as tourist destinations are some of the most underrated attractions in Bohol. As far as I am concerned, both these exciting destinations are a mix of Banawe, Boracay, and Cebu, but without the hustle of too many people – what heaven!!  If you can make some effort to do some research before you go and use a guided tour when you get there, it will pay huge dividends. We took a really great and unusual tour in the eastern part of Bohol.

These two provinces are situated on the eastern coast of the island, roughly 100 kilometers or a three-hour ride from Tagbilaran City. With its myriad of attractions, Anda and Candijay are definitely divine! Fine white sand beaches, rich marine life, enchanting caves and cave pools, hidden waterfalls and much much more!

My sister and I rented a car for the cost of P2,500 (luckily we met two fellow backpackers who were willing to share the cost) were conditional on only driving to the places below. This was a really great option to have and highly recommended – using public transport might save you some money, but is complicated, very time consuming and you simply will not get to see all the places you want.  Alternative price structures are available.

Kuya Johnfel Caseres’ Car Rental Service – 09065550098 / 09997201988

Anda in Bohol is famous for its long white sand beach but for the traveler, there are other options, like the hidden, beautiful and cave pools hidden which include Combento, Cateres, Kaligoon, Tiburako and on the East Coast, the biggest and most beautiful according to many, The Cabagnow Cave.

The Cabagnow Cave

The Cabagnow Cave

The Cabagnow is the deepest cave pool in Anda with depths said to be 25 feet. Entrance fee is just P10 for adults and is collected at the gate. Cabagnow Cave Pool is a bit challenging because it’s like a hole in the ground, and you have to use a ladder and wear slippers so it’ll be easy climbing up and down to the pool. It’s worth it so be patient!

There is no obvious signed route to get there but ask the local drivers as they know where to drop you off to start your walk.

2. Cateres Cave

A few meters from Cabagbow Cave Pool and the first one that visitors will pass is a smaller cave pool. The water is shallower compared to Cabagnow and the ceiling is lower but still enough room to swim around.

Cateres Cave: Photo credits to @markedventures

We didn’t take a swim here as it is not that deep and a little rocky, but it is not a bad place for a quick dip, especially if you are scared by enclosed places.

3. Quinale Beach

Quinale Beach is a fine white sand spectacle that’s free for all the townsfolk to enjoy. It is a long stretch of white sand with clear waters and a sandy bed.

Quinale Beach

A lot of people think it’s way better than the beaches on Boracay – you really have to see the sand to believe it. It is actually almost perfectly white sand which is super fine and for a public beach, it has a true feeling of exclusiveness that you would only expect on an expensive private one.

Quinale Beach

The place has some facilities for eating/drinking/snacks, such as Quinale Beach Bar with which sells reasonably priced snacks and drinks mostly. Next door you will find Anda’s tourist center and you can relax in the shade either beneath the hut or under the tree for no charge, or you have the option to set up a tent or a picnic blanket or tables and chairs. Tables and chairs can be rented (Php75 for a table and Php5 for two chairs) at the bar and camping on the beach is allowed if you have your own tent, and it’s not total ‘jungle’ living as there are free facilities such as toilets, changing rooms, and open showers by the bar.

4. Talisay Beach

It gives the impression of being a dirty beach but it’s mostly naturally created with seaweed, broken shells, leaves etc, rather than made waste. When you do wade into the water, it is shallow, ideal for those bringing children. The sand gently slopes into the sea a couple of meters and the depth is just above the knee, although where there is a color transition, it starts to get deep.

Talisay Beach Photo credits to @markedventures

 It’s really nice to just sit under the unusually styled huts or the trees and feel the strong breeze. This place is wonderfully undeveloped and if you just want a dip with a small amount of convenience, then this is the place to be.

5. Cadapdapan Rice Terraces

In Bohol, rice terraces is not an unfamiliar sight. Not known to many, but Bohol also has rice terraces. In Candijay, the most picturesque are in Cadapdapan.

There are actually many rice terraces in Candijay (namely in Barangays Tambongan, Canawa, Tubod, Abihilan ) but Cadapdapan is the most sensible visit option as you can also take in the waterfall that is there as well. Two for the price of one!

Cadapdapan Rice Terraces

The terraces were formed from elevated areas converted into farmlands by the natives of barangay Cadapdapan a long time ago.

6. Eleuterio’s Rice Terraces & Mountain Resort

Can-Umantad Falls and the nearby spring pools are owned and managed by Eleuterio’s Can-Umantad Falls and Rice Terraces Resort Inc. They are open to the public every day from 7 AM to 5 PM. Entrance fee is P20 per person, the parking fee is P10 for motorbike and P20 for private cars.

Eleuterio’s Rice Terraces & Mountain Resort

We found everyone very friendly and approachable and we took time out to eat lunch there with the group – try the local “halang-halang”, made with native chicken. You can take your own food there if you prefer but you will be charged between P100-P200.

7. Can-umantad Falls

The Can-umantad Falls, the tallest in Bohol, is located in Cadapdapan, Candijay. They are 60 ft. tall as the name hints at – Can-umantad means “kan-uman/kaunuman” or six times.

To get to it you have to climb (15 mins) 518 steps and even though it is tiring when you get there you forget the trek as the view and spectacle is stunning!

Small word of warning – take your time walking around as the ground can be very slippery and bring along with you some water and extra hand towel.

Can-umantad Falls

8. Canawa Cold Spring

The Canawa Spring is a deep blue water cold spring in a clearing surrounded by tall trees. Local and foreign divers have all tried to measure the depth of the spring but have so far failed. They thought they had reached the bottom at 12 meters only to find it was just the first level and that tunnels go deeper so that no one has ever reached its floor. Entrance Fee is 10 pesos and cottage rental is 100 pesos.

Canawa Cold Spring: Photo credits to @markedventures

Canawa Spring is located in barangay Canawa, Candijay. The name “Canawa” comes from the term “kawa” a famous cauldron or pan shape cooking tool of the Bisaya.

As a safety measure, ropes have been installed that run across the spring, so, even if you are not a good swimmer then you can still enjoy a dip.

How To Get There?

Option 1: Prior to our arrival in Bohol, we had already hired a car for the price of 2,500 but shared the cost between 4 of us, from Kuya Johnfel Caseres’ Car Rental Service. So upon our arrival at Tagbilaran Airport, we went directly to Anda, Bohol and start the tour.

Option 2: There are 2 ways on how to go to Anda via commute. If you are checked-in at Panglao or Tagbilaran, you can ride a van(P120) via Guindulman and transfer to a tricycle(P30) going to Anda. You can also ride the bus(P100) via Anda.

• Bus Schedules:
  Travel time is 3 hours. Tagbilaran-Anda: 5:00AM|12:30PM |2:30PM | 5:30PM

  Anda-Tagbilaran: 6:00AM|8:00AM |10:30AM | 11:00AM

• Van Schedules:
  Travel time is 2 hours. Tagbilaran-Anda: No fixed schedule

  Anda-Tagbilaran: 4:00AM|5:30AM |6:00AM | 7:00AM | 7:30AM

• If you miss the above direct vans/buses, take a bus to Guindulman. From Guindulman, there are regular buses, vans, tricycles, and motorcycles to Anda running from 5 AM to 5 PM.

Getting Around Anda & Candijay

How to go to Candijay:
You can catch a van or bus in Dao Terminal that passes by the town. Asked the driver to drop you off at Lungsod Daan, Candijay Market. Bus fare per person is around Php 80 while van fare per person is around Php 120.

Anda to Candijay:
Take a multi-cab from the town going to the highway. Fare is about Php 20 each. From there you can ride a bus. Fare is around Php 12 each. Motorcycle or habal-habal is the mode of transportation to get to Can-Umantad Falls. Rate starts from Php 180 to 200 per person.

Candijay is a safe and clean place but with nowhere to stay. To stay in the local area, your options are either Guindulman (the closest)  or the more up-market Anda, which is quite a bit further away. There are no wi-fi options other than what you can achieve on your mobiles.

Amun Ini Beach Resort & Spa From around Php 12,000  Compare prices here	Island View Beachfront Resort From Around Php 5,500  Compare prices here
Anda Cove Beach Retreat From around Php 4,000  Compare prices here	Anda White Beach Resort From around Php 3,700  Compare prices here

Zenith Inn & Resto Bar From around Php 890  Compare prices here	R & S Seaside Unit Accommodation From Around Php 1,200  Compare prices here
Blue Star Dive Resort From around Php 2,700  Compare prices here	J&R Residence From around Php 3,200  Compare prices here

DAY 1	Other Side of Bohol Tour	EXPENSES
		2/Pax	Solo
7:15 AM	ETD Manila
8:45 AM	ETA Tagbilaran
9:00 AM	Start of Other Side of Bohol Tour
	We rented a car for this tour. *P2,500 for 4 pax.	1,250	625
Contact: Johnfel Caseres – 09065550098 (globe) 09997201988 (smart)
Cabagnow cave	20	10
Entrance Fee: P10
Cateres Cave
Quinale Beach
Talisay Beach
Cadapdapan Rice Terraces
Eleuterio’s Rice Terraces and Mountain Resort
Lunch at Eleuterio’s	250	125
Entrance Fee: Php20 per head	40	20
Parking Fee: *4 wheels = P20 / 2 wheels = P10	10	5
Canawa cold spring	20	10
Entrance Fee: Php10 per head Cottages: Php100
5:00 PM	Back to Tagbilaran
7:00 PM	Check-in to our hotel at LTS Lodge Phone: +63 38 411 3310	392	196
	Room Rates: Single – P330/day | Double – P392.00/day
7:30 PM	Dinner	300	150
8:30 PM	Socialize!
9:30 PM	Lights Out
	*Divided by 4 pax
	TOTAL	2,282	1,141

1. From Manila, start your travel as early as you can to get there before lunch. 2. You can commute going to Anda but we preferred going there in the comfort of a private vehicle. Trust me, it’s easier especially if you’re bringing a lot of things for camping. 3. It is best to bring your own food and water. But if you’re not planning to bring any, there are a lot of options for you to buy near the public market. 4. There is a curfew set around 10 PM at Quinale Beach. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be asked to leave the beach, it just means that you should be respectful and quiet with no shouting or loud music. 5. Globe, Smart, and Sun have a good mobile signal in town. 6. If you are going to rent a car like we did, take extra towels to sit on in case your clothes are wet. 7. Take sunblock and insect repellents. 8. There is a good choice of accommodation to suit most budgets choose from, from high-end beach front resorts to home stays and everything in between. 9. Eating options abound as there are plenty of restaurants along Quinale Beach and in Poblacion to choose from. Again all budgets are catered for. 10. Best time to go is during dry months (November to May) 11. Metrobank has an ATM machine at the town hall

12. Please pick up your trash and take it home or dispose of properly.

Bohol Tourism Contacts

Municipality of Anda Anda Tourism Office Poblacion Anda, Bohol c/o Ms. Kimberly Lim-Adams Mobile: 0908-793-6643 Email: lgu@andabohol.gov.ph / toiurism@andabohol.gov.ph

Website: http://www.andabohol.gov.ph/

Municipality of Candijay Candijay Tourism Office

http://candijay-bohol.gov.ph/

 FOLLOW OUR BUDGET FRIENDLY ADVENTURES THRU:

The post 1,000 pesos Travel Guide to Anda & Candijay, Bohol appeared first on byajayro.

There is a bucket full of superlatives that are time and time again associated with these beaches, but the simple and honest truth is that they are simply stunning and few beaches anywhere in the world can upstage them.

Of course, being close to El Nido, there are thousands of pictures that are online that visually demonstrate, some better than others it must be said, their beauty; caster sugar white sand, lined by palm trees, glass clear water etc.

All the hype left me wondering was there any point to a visit just to add my name to the lengthy list of bloggers who have already been there, seen it and done it, but ultimately I feel back on the adage, don’t comment until you have experienced it for yourself – here I am.

Nacpan & Calitang Beach

Aerial shot of Calitang Beach (left) and Nacpan Beach (right) facing El Nido Bay.

So where are these miracles of nature and how do you get to them? As far as what they are called the header gives you a clue, but as to location they are about 17 kilometers north of El Nido or, in motorcycle ride terms, around  90 minutes ride – it’s not that the bikes go really slowly, it’s the roads are not of a superb standard. The beaches run into each other and are made up of a stretch of jaw-dropping pristine sand that stretches into the distance, Nacpan for around 4 or more kilometers. It is fringed like a well-plucked eyebrow, with coconut trees straight out of a novel of castaways or Treasure Island and, still thankfully, not saturated with so many tourists that would give you the impression your on Muscle Beach in San Francisco.

Entrance Fee: Php 50/pax

The southwest tip of Nacpan is where it meets with the smaller Calitang Beach, and if you scramble up a small hill at this point, you get a wonderful and sense of scale to the surroundings. It is also a great spot to do the family/friend pics or the selfies-on-a-stick and if you have already seen some pictures of this place, this is where they have been taken from. As said, this is still relatively free of mass tourism and there are no high-end resorts in the area, only some small time cottages, and huts for those adventurous enough to want to spend the night there but be warned, although wonderfully romantic it’s basic with just a few local stores and places to get something to eat  the fringes or a little more inland.

Lio is unlike any beach in El Nido. Its 4km long of beautiful sand and is a brilliant place to swim (even surf sometimes, depending on the waves), relax and for the romantically inclined, watch often spectacular sunsets. Although it is open to the public, it never seems to feel it’s crowded at all, although I guess there may be exceptional days.

No Entrance Fee!

Another asset of the place is that while you can enjoy a day of sun, sea, and sand, there are also other things to see and do in the same area, such as renting bikes, kayaks, frisbees and so on as well as taking part in other water sports.

When you are done with soaking up the sun and swimming your heart out, you can use some great spa services before having to choose from an amazing variety of restaurants that cater for all tastes, such as burger bars, pasta, pizza, fusion international, Chinese, Filipino and of course, proverbial beach bars that serve imaginative and refreshing cocktails! And finally, there are the souvenir shops for all your relatives and friends at home that expect something!

Merimegmeg Beach Is a great place to go with few really good bars and ideal for relaxing under a mango tree. The imaginatively named Marimegmeg Beach Bar is probably the best place to hang out while you are there and the food and drinks they serve are brilliant. While you are enjoying yourself there, listening to the cool music and being pampered by the excellent staff, be sure to hang around for the often spectacular sunsets; the place simply has a reputation hard to beat for fun, relaxation, food and drink and Hollywood style sunsets.

No Entrance Fee!

There are other different places you can discover during an inland tour: Makinit Hot Springs, Taraw Cliff, The Ille Cave, and Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls. These places are free to access and you can go there on your own.

How to get there?

• With a tricycle: The price for 2-4 persons is around Php 1000 (Kuya Danny, 09183431892). The trip will take you around 1 hour. Know that it will not be a comfortable one since half of the road is in a very bad state. It can even get really muddy if it has been raining in the previous days.

Photo Credit: elnidoparadise

• With the Inland Beaches and Waterfalls Tour (aka El Nido Tour E): The last option is to visit Nacpan Beach while doing Tour E. You will then have motorbikes and a tour guide with you. Nacpan Beach will be one of the stops during your day. You can book this tour online by clicking here.

Where to get cheaper Palawan tours?

Puerto Princesa Tours
 Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour
 Puerto Princesa City Heritage Tour
 Puerto Princesa Hundred Caves
 Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
 Puerto Princesa Chasing Waterfall

El Nido Tours
 El Nido Tour A
 El Nido Tour B
 El Nido Tour C
 El Nido Tour D

BOOK DISCOUNTED PALAWAN TOURS HERE

Like in many places in Palawan, the roads are not made up and you will find lots of dirt roads full of potholes and worse and when it rains they can turn to mud. In fact, the first time I went to Palawan, Google maps very kindly guided the car I was traveling in onto one of these roads between Puerto Princessa and El Nido.

Luckily it was dry and apart from adding an hour or so the travel time, it was more of a horror experience for the suspension of the car! The reason I mention this now is that the road to these beaches is one of the dreaded dirt roads, so you really want to make sure that you have an experienced driver who knows what they are doing and has previous experience in taking people to these beaches.

Photo Credit: homeiswhereyourbagis

If you think it is bad at the start it only gets worse the closer you get to the beaches and be prepared to get off your bike and help push, especially if it has been raining and the road is covered in some deep mud patches, but it is worth it and although you might feel you have been in a wrestling match with a bear by the time you arrive, it really is worth the discomfort.

If you want to stay overnight in Nacpan, you can camp out at Jack’s Place (+63 907 344 9337).  Just take your own tent and you pay only Php 150 per person per night. If you do not have one you can rent a tent from them for Php 500, which gets you a tent big enough for two, a mattress, pillows, and a blanket. Another option is, Hammock Homestay (+63 917 665 6614 or +63 939 271 2120 ) is actually 450 per night per pax, Breakfast included (Pancake + 1, and only 1, coffee/tea), even though you’re a couple sleeping on the top of the tree house. It’s definitely NOT as good value if you are two or more as  you can find front beach bungalows for as cheap as 800 per night.

There are also rooms at Nacpan Twin Beach on the southern end, with rooms from between Php 600 and Php 800 per night which gets you basic fan room right on the beach front. You can find other alternatives to booking sites; at least 3 or 4 places offering rooms. If you prefer you can also wait until you are there and just walk in and ask for a room. A charming little village named Calitang is located there but has very little in the way of amenities, so if this is important to you it is would be best to stay at a hotel/resort in El Nido Town Proper where you will have access to lots of restaurants, bars, tour operators etc. Most tourists go to Nacpan Beach on a day trip only and return to the town proper by end of the day.

Best Budget Hotels in El Nido

Spin Designer Hostel – El Nido From around Php 799  Compare prices here	Our Melting Pot HostelFrom Around Php 397  Compare prices here
Ricgem Place From around Php 874  Compare prices here	Bacuit Lodge From around Php 700  Compare prices here

STAY IN TOUCH WITH OUR WORLD OF ADVENTURES BY CHECKING OUT:

11.321189 119.427758

The post DIY Travel Guide: Nacpan & Calitang Twin Beach, El Nido appeared first on byajayro.

Maldives, Seychelles, Greece, Bali, Paris – these places are magnets, attracting newlyweds from all around the world. If you do not want to follow the beaten paths and spend your honeymoon in the midst of the same newly wedded couples, today we will offer you some of the best-underrated places for a truly unforgettable honeymoon – from ski trips in Antarctica to watching the hippos in Mozambique.

Port Blair Havelock Island, Andaman Islands

Located between India and Myanmar, the Andaman Islands are the best choice for couples who want to spend time together on beaches virtually untouched by man, breathe in the moist tropical air and bask in the sunlight while surrounded with palm trees. The most secluded place for the romantically-minded is the Jalakara Hotel on Havelock Island right in the middle of the forest. When you want to get out of the shadow of the jungle, go swimming with an aqualung and sunbathe on the beach.

Jalakara Hotel Galapagos Island

This island will provide with lots of great opportunities, to watch the graceful flamingos, swim with sea lions, and see the great iguanas – on the Galapagos Islands, you can feel like a pair of explorers. We advise you to take a boat in order to sail together to the islands of San Cristobal, Floriana, Isabela, and Santa Cruz and to feel as if you are alone in paradise, not counting the fur seals lying on the shore.

Espectacular Private Villa with Unbeatable Views Gorongosa National Park

A great place to go on safari together is the restored Gorongosa National Park in the province of Sofala, where more than one hundred thousand animals live in the wild. Holding hands in a massive jeep and admiring lions, elephants, hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and huge rare butterflies that sit right on your shoulder — you will remember this romantic trip for a lifetime.

Mount Calm Retreat Laubeuf Fjord, Webb Island

While certainly not one of the first places in the world that would come to one’s mind after marrying a woman, it has its own appeal. This is an option for the most daring and those who are no longer surprised by the perfect sand on the beach or turquoise water. Here you will feel like you are on another planet – you will see penguins, whales, albatrosses, take part in an expedition on skis and fully enjoy the exotic and extreme. But do not think that you will have to spend the night on a cold station and sleep in insulated bags: comfortable cruise liners go to Antarctica, where you can always hide from the harsh elements.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 

A large and, at the same time, not very popular island in the Grenadines archipelago remains in the shadow of nearby resorts like Jamaica and Barbados – there are not many tourists here, and you will surely manage to spend time together in peace and solitude. Bequia will appeal to beach lovers: snow-white volcanic sand and turquoise water are so bright that they do not require any filters on Instagram. If you want to start your family life together with something truly unforgettable, go together for some windsurfing, snorkeling, and regatta classes or help the most famous diver of the island to save turtles in the Old Hegg Turtle sanctuary.

Seashell Apartment, Kingstown Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is suitable for those who adore the spirit of Italy, but need something new: you should enjoy the warm sun, cozy and picturesque bays, the clear Mediterranean Sea, and the Old Town built 2000 years ago, where you can hide from the shady streets and all the heat of a city. A fortress of St. John is perfect for a mini-picnic and a romantic photoshoot.

Chic & Stylish Old Town Studio + Sea View Terraces Rock islands of Palau

This archipelagic state in Micronesia is located on more than 500 islands – a paradise for those who want to spend their honeymoon by exploring new places together. Start your vacation with a helicopter flight over the coral islands of Rock Islands, go underwater, explore the fish scurrying around the reefs and the remains of the sunken ships of the World War II, and be sure to meet the dawn together on the beach.

SEAWARD standard room with ocean view  Bhutan Punakha Dzong Asia

This is an amazing little country in the Himalayas, where there is an official Ministry of Happiness. In Bhutan, they enjoy the unusually pure nature, the silence, and minimalism of ancient stone monasteries and local tea, which is drunk with oil and salt. Newlyweds should like the legendary track The Druk Path: when walking along this path, you will see mountains, pine forests, lakes, local gingerbread-like houses, and you will have time to discuss all the joint plans for life.

Khang Heritage: 6 BHK Quiet & Cozy House w/ Patio

The post Most Underrated Honeymoon Destinations appeared first on byajayro.

It is amazing the incredible places you can reach relatively easily from the drudgery and confusion of Manila – how we dream of the wide open spaces instead of sitting in traffic for hours and being pushed and shoved by the hordes of people that are Manila. Also for those arriving from foreign fields either into Ninoy Aquino International Airport or Clark International Airport, there is a rare and stunning destination for you to head towards, that is only a few hours from Manila.

The province of ZAMBALES has some of the most stunning coastline in the Philippines and although there are a number of resorts to choose from, SAN FELIPE is not only a personal favorite but is just an amazing and beautiful place to visit.

If your a little interested in the history of the place without needing to feel like your going back to school, San Felipe has a large concentration of Aeta people, an indigenous people of the Philippines and the town was affected by the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption, being buried in about a meter in volcanic ash but damage was comparatively light.

San Felipe is much more than the numerous Surfing and Diving locations you can find in the Philippines, although these activities are well catered for and are fantastic. Additionally and uniquely, San Felipe offers more for the adventurous traveller, in the form of terrific trekking and a unique glimpse into the past heritage of the local Aeta people.

There are numerous trekking experiences you can get involved in. If you are into waterfalls and some excitement along the way, then imagine crossing a hanging and swaying bridge suspended in the air and be rewarded not only with beautiful scenery, but a great dip in the crystal clear, if not bracing, pool under the falls. (check out the season as the waterfall is rain dependent).

Also you can trek to visit the Aeta tribal people. It’s a medium difficulty trek which crosses a lot of water features but it’s not so bad that even the less agile of hikers can make it no problem. The great reward of doing this trek is you get to meet and spend time with the tribe.

So who are the Aeta tribes and why would you want to visit them?

The Aeta tribes are generally considered to have been not only the first inhabitants of the Philippines but probably the oldest living race in the world today. Their ancestors can be tracked to the aborigines from Australia, but the tribes on the Philippines originated in Borneo around 30,000 years ago. Very sadly their way of life was totally destroyed with the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 and the Typhoon Didling and resulting tsunami, amongst other things. A bad time to say the least, and they were forced to desert their indigenous homeland. They lost everything and now need everyone’s help to survive. Tourism is one of the ways we can all help, so its like fun for the philanthropist and an opportunity to be involved in a unique experience not found anywhere else in the world!

You can get involved in organized visits and join in with the Aetian culture for a short period. Activities included in the tour and what you will experience are as follows:

1. Tree Planting – how to help the tribe replace their habitat – at The Nursery you begin to appreciate the serious situation the tribes are in and as great as your scenic trek across the mountains was, you must have noticed a complete lack of trees. This has led to a heap of environmental issues,; most seriously a lack of rainfall and water. Without the forests to cool the clouds, rainfall occurs much less often, which has lead to water sources drying up, leaving vegetation starved of their life source. The lack of trees especially has not only meant devastation of wildlife in the area, but also of the livelihood of the natives as well.

2. Lunch with the Aetas – They do the cooking Enjoy amazing hospitality with members of the local tribe as they prepare some mouth watering dishes passed down from generation to generation – if your lucky maybe you can get the recipe for some of them and wow the folks back home!

3. Aeta Archery Lessons – traditional hunter/gatherers show you how it is done – The locals will let you use a bow and arrows, and everyone can have a go, under the careful supervision of a local tribesman. It’s great fun and you soon realize its not even close to easy and when you think that they used to hunt birds, and on occasion, wild pigs, it’s incredible. Just to rub salt into the wound, they will show you how it is really done!

4. Tribal Medicine and Cultural Show – maybe you can find a cure for the common cold?? Herbal and Alternative Medicines gain more traction and popularity every year, and when you join in this activity you are bound to leave with a few ideas that could save you an expensive visit to the pharmacy!

5. Learning about the local culture and how the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo affected and is still affecting the lives of a lot of local tribes and their families. Finally you get to understand how nature can totally destroy a human way of life and even years on, still has a resounding and dreadful effect on the locals. It makes the whole trip worthwhile.

You get to trek through the Aeta ancestral lands and when you are hot and bothered can take a swim in then crystal clear and refreshing rivers. When your ready to take a rest and some locally cooked food at lunch time, sit and listen to the elders of the tribe tell you about their fascinating and incredible culture and learn some traditional herbal medicine to impress the folks back home. When you’re rested and for the less shy, you also get an opportunity to join in the tribal dances with the locals and especially the irrepressible kids.

I particularly enjoyed learning about their archery skills and just loved the lessons, but I’m not sure you would want me to try and shoot an apple from on top of your head just yet!

On a more serious and practical side, you have an opportunity to learn and experience about sustainable community living and how to help the tribes become more self sufficient through the practice of agroforestry.

Activities include:

• Trekking
• Introduction to Aeta Culture
• Native Archery
• Music and Dances
• Herbal Medicine Garden Tour
• Tree Planting
• Carabao Rides
• Snacks, Lunch, and Dinner with the Tribe

Tribes and Treks Zambales is a probram by MAD Travel and The Circle Hostel with the Municipality of San Felipe, Zambales and Hineleban Foundation.

Sample Itinerary

Friday9pm Departure from Victory Liner Cubao StationArrival at Iba, Zambales (Midnight)Tricycle Pick-up from Station to Liwliwa

Saturday

7am Meet-up at Circle HostelVolcanic Ash Trek to YangilEnvironmental BriefingTree-planting at the NurseryLunch at the VillageVillage Tour & Storytelling with the TribeArchery, Traditional Music & DancesSunset at LiwliwaDinner at Chief Iking’s

Sunday

Free Time / Beach Time9am Sunday Smoothie Bowls with Seed Nation (Optional)12nn Trike Pickup from Liwliwa to San Felipe Town1230pm Departure from San Felipe to Cubao530pm Arrival in Victory Liner Cubao Station

BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE

Inclusions are:

• Activities mentioned in the Tribes & Treks Tour
• Guided Trek by MAD Travel & Yangil Locals
• Lunch, Snacks, Dinner
•  Simple Hostel Breakfast
• Roundtrip Victory Liner Bus Tickets (Cubao-Zambales)
• Roundtrip Tricycle Pickup & Dropoff (San Felipe Town-Liwliwa) Transfers within Zambales
•   2 nights at Circle Hostel

WHERE TO STAY

Photo Credit to: www.expatch.org

The Circle Hostel ZambalesAddress: San Felipe, Zambales, Philippines

Email: thecirclereservations@gmail.com
Mobile: +63-917-861-1929

To book online: The Circle Hostel

HOW TO GET THERE

Take the NLEX until the last exit. Take the SCTEX until Subic. Head to the Kalaklan Gate. Turn left upon exiting the Kalaklan Gate. Go straight and pass through the following towns: Subic Town, Castillejos and San MarcelinoYou will hit an T-intersection with a Petron. Make a right. Straight until through San Narciso until you see the San Felipe arch. You will pass a cemetery on your right. Then a little past that you will see the Bobulon Elementary School on your left and a green sign saying: “This way to Liwliwa” Make a left here! Keep following the road (it will become a dirt/sand road. Nearing the end make a left and follow the road. (you’ll see an electric post with purple spray paint).You will come into an open area but the road will continue rightish straight into a bamboo gate lined path.
Go straight and you will find The Circle on your left.

BY BUS

From Manila Option 1Take Victory Liner from the Cubao Station OR Pasay Station to Iba Zambales

Tell the bus driver you will get down in the town of San Felipe. From the town take a tricycle and tell them you want to go to Liwliwa near the pier (Sa may dating pier). From the town center the tricycle will pass Bobulan Elementary School and turn right. He will go straight to the end and make a left (you’ll see an electric post with purple spray paint) then go straight until a clearing. He’ll make a rightish straight. Keep your eyes peeled for The Circle on your left!

From Manila Option 2Take Victory Liner from the Cubao Station to Dau Pampanga Bus Station

OR take Victor Liner from the Pasay Station to Iba, Zambales. Transfer to a bus/shuttle going to Olongapo OR Iba, Zambales. Upon arrival in Olongapo transfer to a bus going to Iba, Zambales. Tell the bus driver you will get down in the town of San Felipe. From the town take a tricycle and tell them you want to go to Liwliwa near the pier (Sa may dating pier). From the town center the tricycle will pass Bobulan Elementary School and turn right. He will go straight to the end and make a left (you’ll see an electric post with purple spray paint) then go straight until a clearing. He’ll make a rightish straight. keep your eyes peeled for The Circle on your left!

BY CLARK AIRPORT

Take a shuttle from the airport to the DAU BUS STATION. Transfer to a bus/shuttle going to Olongapo OR Iba, Zambales. Upon arrival in Olongapo transfer to a bus going to Iba, Zambales. Tell the bus driver you will get down in the town of San Felipe. From the town take a tricycle and tell them you want to go to Liwliwa near the pier (Sa may dating pier). From the town center the tricycle will pass Bobulan Elementary School and turn right. He will go straight to the end and make a left (you’ll see an electric post with purple spray paint) then go straight until a clearing. He’ll make a rightish straight. keep your eyes peeled for The Circle on your left!

SIDETRIP

Liwliwa Beach, Zambales is just meters away from The Circle Hostel. This beach in San Filipe becomes a haven for surfers and surfer-wannabes.

The post Tribes and Treks Zambales: An adventure through history appeared first on byajayro.

DIY Travel Guide: Bicol (Sorsogon + Albay ) Backpacking
DIY Travel Guide: Matnog, Sorsogon
 Tourist Spots in Sorsogon
DIY Travel Guide: Vanishing Island, Malilipot, Albay

Matnog is a municipality in Bicolandia, located in the Southernmost part of the region. It is best known as a major hub for ferries bound for destinations in the Southern Philippines such as Samar, but there is so much more about to Matnog than being just a functional, commercial seaport!

So what can Matnog, Sorsogon offer to travelers?

Well, you can experience Island hopping like never before! You will be amazed by the beauty of the Subic Pink Beach Island, Tikling Island, Calintaan Cave and the Juag Lagoon Fish Sanctuary.

Triva Alert!!!  The name “Matnog” sounds like the Tagalog word “Matunog/Matonog” which means audible and, according to the locals, the place has this name because of the cacophonous and loud sounds created by the waves.

WATCH OUR VIDEO

Island Hopping Adventure

We stayed here for about an hour to enjoy its clear water and its white sand and there are NO ENTRANCE FEES to pay. According to the caretaker of the place, the island is actually privately owned and the owner has been long planning to build a resort on the island so put this on your bucket list before it gets commercialized!

Crystal clear water at Tikling Island.

2nd Stop: Juag Lagoon

The next stop was at the Juag Lagoon Fish Sanctuary. For me, this was the highlight of the island hopping because offers you the chance to swim with the fishes (not Mafia style haha!), feed them and be amazed on how beautiful they are and some of them are pretty large as well. If you want you can buy fish food and feed them for 100 pesos only!

Trivia Alert!!! There are at least 40 species of fish that can be found here.

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3rd Stop: Calintaan Cave

At first sight, you may say that it is just like an ordinary cave but once you swim inside you see its real beauty – it’s like entering your own secret sanctuary with amazing crystal clear blue water.

After a swimming inside the cave. Here goes the secret sanctuary!

4th Stop: Subic Beach

Otherwise known as the Pink Beach in Sorsogon. The sand here is fine and when viewed from afar when the sand is directly hit by the sunlight, it takes on a pinkish colour that makes this island famous!

Travelers usually stay overnight on Subic Island. There are a number of cottages and huts that afford accommodation and you can rent a standard fan room or, if you prefer, an air-conditioned one, at reasonable prices (you can haggle with the owners of these huts). Fortunately, these established cottages and huts were designed in a traditional native style and actually complement the beauty of this pristine beach.

Aerial shot of Subic Island White sand with pinkish particles made through nature’s work with corals.

Trivia Alert!!! Subic Beach is actually divided into two portions. Locals call it as Subic Laki (Big) beach and Subic Liit (small) beach.

How to get there?

By Land from Manila: There are plenty of buses that offer direct routes to Matnog. You may opt to ride PhilTranco, Raymond or Isarog buses. The fare is around 800 to 1200 depending on the bus you’ll choose. Travel time is around 14 hours.

By Land from Legazpi: First, you need to reach Legazpi Bus Terminal. From there, look for buses that are bound to Matnog (if there are any). Otherwise, ride a bus that is bound to Bulan and just tell the conductor to drop you off at Trece (Landmark is Lion’s head) which is the intersection of Bulan and Matnog. After which, wait for buses and jeepneys that are directly bound to Matnog.

By Air: Take a flight going to Legazpi, Albay via Cebu Pacific, AirAsia or PAL. At Legazpi Airport, you can hire a trike that will take you to the bus terminal where there are also jeepneys going to Sorsogon City. Once in Sorsogon, hire a trike that will take you to buses or jeepneys bound to Matnog. Travel time from Legazpi to Sorsogon is about an hour. From Sorsogon to Matnog, travel time is around 3 to 4 hours.

NOTE: Upon arrival in Matnog town proper, it is better to coordinate with the Matnog Tourism Office just across the Municipal Hall. There is a 70 pesos registration fee. Boat rentals (inclusive of Island Hopping and is good for 10) rates are 1,600 for a day tour and 2,000 for overnight.

If you want to have the service of our boatman just call
Kuya Noli  thru his Smart number, 09289485262.

Where to stay?

You can either stay overnight in Subic Beach by renting a Kubo with a fan or an air-conditioning or stay in the resorts found in the town proper area (ask the locals or inquire at the tourism office). However, the best option still is to camp out in Subic beach and pay only 50 pesos fee to be allowed to pitch a tent. If you are worried about restrooms, just don’t! Why? There are public restrooms on the island that are fairly clean and usable.

Best Budget Hotels in Sorsogon

Ingko Hotel Gabao From around Php 1,400  Compare prices here	Bantigui Beach ResortFrom Around Php 1,800  Compare prices here
Fernandos Hotel From around Php 700  Compare prices here	Fritz Homestay From around Php 900  Compare prices here

You can buy your supplies for your island hopping and overnight stay at the market which is just a 2-minute walk from the tourism office for a cheaper price compared when you buy on the islands (effect of supply and demand haha!). You can have it cooked by the locals on the island for a fee (Paluto system- for every dish, the standard fee is 50 pesos but for your rice, you can just give them 20 pesos) or you can just cook it for yourself and if you need any help, just ask your boatmen and they will surely help you out.

Sidetrip:

RELATED POST: DIY Travel Guide: Bicol (Sorsogon + Albay ) Backpacking

For full 5D4N Itinerary and Expenses:
DIY Travel Guide: 5D4N Sorsogon + Albay Escapade

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It’s not often, anywhere in the world, that you come across a destination where it is possible to immerse yourself in theme park fun and important historical buildings all in one great day – but you can in Negros Occidental.

I was undecided where to spend the rest of my  Panay Island Tour and having heard so many good things about Negros, I took the plunge and made a b-line for the island. I would not be disappointed.

Firstly, I took in the beauty of The Ruins, and after that sucked in the almost “New Zealand-ish” and certainly “The Hobbit-ish” world of Campuestohan. The Ruins have a fascinating history, which I don’t have room to tell you all about, but do some research beforehand and it will the experience so much better.

How to get there:

Campuestohan + The Ruins Day Tour:
From Iloilo Port, I caught a ferry going to Negros Occidental. After approx.  2hrs of ferry ride you arrive at Bacolod Port. From there I took a taxi from the port for the great price of Php700 to take me on a tour of the two most visited destinations in the area.

BACOLOD – ILOILO VICE VERSA

The Ruins:  Taj Mahal of Negros

Entrance fee: 150php

Option 1:
From Bacolod-Silay Airport, you can take a shuttle (Php75-100 per head), or a cab (minimum of Php400) and ask to be dropped off at your destination.

Option 2:
From Bacolod City, you can take a jeepney (Bata-Libertad) playing to the north and ask the driver to drop you at the tricycle terminal near Pepsi Cola plant. The tricycle would take you to the entrance of The Ruin at Hacienda Sta. Maria. You can also opt to take a cab for less hassle since roads going to The Ruins were already cemented.

Entrance Fee: 150php

NEW UPDATE!

Php50/person (One-way)
Contact No: 09778040808
Loading & Drop-Off Point: 

i-Mart Convenience Store
Circumferential Road
Corner Burgos Ave. (Beside Caltex)

Note: All official vehicles have Campuestohan Resort logo.

Other Options
Option 1: From Bacolod ride a jeepney to Burgos Market. The fare is Php7. From Burgos Market ride a jeepney to Alangilan Terminal. The fare is Php20. From Alalingan Terminal, take a trike to Campuestohan Mountain Resort Solo Php400 RT 2 to 4 Php200/pax RT

You can haggle Php500 /3pax RT

Option 2:

	TRANSPORTATION TYPE	RATE
	Shuttle Service (30-seater Air-conditioned Sarao) A. Weekend Service – Loading Area: Villa Angela Arcade parking lot (fronting Lopue’s East Centre) – Departure Time from Bacolod: 9:00 AM – Departure Time from Resort: 4:00 PM	P 100.00/Person
	Shuttle Service (30-seater Air-conditioned Sarao) B. Private Group Charter  – 2-way transport service – Pick-up and drop-off point: within Bacolod City	P 3,000.00
	C. Nissan Urvan – Maximum Capacity: 15 persons – Day Trip Pick-up & Drop off	P 1,500.00
	D. Nissan Urvan – Maximum Capacity: 15 persons – Overnight	P 2,500.00

Please note that you need to wear sports/rubber shoes in all of the featured attractions.  If you are unable to bring one with you, shoe rentals with free socks are available.

Shoe Rental        P   50.00 /  Person ( Comes with one free pair of socks)

DAY ACCOMMODATIONS

• Big Cottage Php 1,000.00
  (good for 20 persons)
• Small Cottage
  (good for 12-15 persons)
• Umbrella Hut
  (good for 10 persons)
• Canopy Tent
  (good for 10 persons)
• Canopy Tent
  (good for 6-8 persons)

OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS

• Bonita Hut P 2,500.00 (good for 4 persons)
  free entrance for 4 persons
• Log Cabin Room 1 & 2 P 4,000.00 (good for 4 persons)
  free entrance and breakfast for 4 persons
• Log Cabin Room 3 & 4 P 5,000.00  (good for 5 persons)
  free entrance and breakfast for 5 persons
• Log Cabin Room 5 & 6 P 3,000.00 (good for 3 persons)
  free entrance and breakfast for 3 persons
• Log Cabin Room 7 P 5,000.00 (good for 5 persons)
  free entrance and breakfast for 5 persons

RIDE TYPE	RATE
	A. Zipline	P200.00/person
	B. Rope Course	P200.00/person
	C. Sky Bicycle	P 100.00/person (one-way)
	D. Horseback Riding	P150.00/person (15 minutes)
	E. Hamster Wheel	P 100.00/person
	F. Grand Carousel	P  30.00/person
	G. Mini Train	P  30.00/person
	H. Chair Lift	(coming soon – the picture shown here is just an illustration)
	I. Wave Pool	(coming soon – the picture shown here is just an illustration)
	J. Windmill	(coming soon – the picture shown here is just an illustration
	K. Bungee Trampoline	(coming soon – the picture shown here is just an illustration)
	L. Outdoor Gym	(coming soon – the picture shown here is just an illustration)

Where to stay in Bacolod

Important Reminders:

1. It would be advisable for guests to make a reservation ahead of their scheduled trip.
2. Resort operating hours are from 7am-6pm for day-trips
3. Bringing of pets is highly discouraged.
4. Their parking space is free on a first-come, first, serve basis.
5. They have a restaurant serving affordable and sumptuous meals for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner.  The restaurant is open daily from 7am-9pm.
6. Guests are free to bring their own food provided that they’ll be staying in the picnic cottages.  Corkage fee applies once you bring outside food to our pavilion restaurant.
7. Children 2 years old and below are exempted from paying the entrance fee and from headcount.  However, if a child is over 2 years, the child is subject to paying the entrance fee at the same rate as adults.
8.  Proper swimming attire is required when using the swimming pool.  Clothes made of jersey, cotton, and denim are not allowed.
9. They also accommodate guests who wish to camp.  They charge P350.00/person per night.  This rate is already inclusive of entrance fee and use of our toilet and bathroom facilities.  Guests who wish to camp can pitch their tents beginning 5 pm then pack-up by 6 am.
10. Reservations must be made at least 3 days ahead if resort visit will fall on a weekend, and at least 1 day before if coming on a weekday.

Itinerary and Expenses:

For your reservations, please contact the following numbers:

Landline: (034) 702-0964; (034) 433-3335
Mobile: 0915-211-1406; 0917-300-5007; 0925-600-8088

Office Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Office Address: Bacolod TP Truckers, Gonzaga St., Bacolod City
Resort Address: Sitio Campuestohan Brgy. Cabatangan/ alternate route via Brgy. Granada and Alangilan Talisay City 6100 Philippines

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