Category: Philippines

It is no secret that the island of Siargao in Surigao del Norte province is a haven for water sports. And as you may all know, the most popular of these water sports is no other than surfing. The island’s coastal geography includes several islets with waves that are ideal for various surfing skill levels—thanks to the fact that Siargao faces the open sea, and the fact that it is near the mysterious Philippine Trench. Siargao’s surfing spots At the center of this fame is the surfing spot known as Cloud 9. Dubbed by CNNgo as the eighth best surf ... Read more

One Friday eve, I went to Cebu’s port and boarded a ferry bound for Palompon, Leyte. Everything happened on random, and I had no fix itinerary in mind. But what I had been thinking that moment was spending a beach camp in Kalanggaman, an island floating off the coast of the boat’s destination. Short Introduction of my Random Trip The dawn chilled a bit as I walk around Palompon. The town was deeply asleep, except for the few “sikad” (rickshaw) drivers who were busy attending the new arrivals, and some teens who enjoyed staying late for some reasons. I realized that 2:30AM ... Read more

Laiya is one of Manila’s closest beaches. Just hop on a bus from any major terminals in the metro, and then within 3 to 4 hours, you will find yourself photo bombing the picture-perfect ivory strip of Batangas province. Laiya is also close to the Batangas’ tastiest lomihan and gotohan, so don’t forget to drop by during your visit. Just another jump shot fail How to get to Laiya Via San Juan The fastest way to Laiya is via San Juan. Take ALPS Bus from either EDSA Nepa Q-Mart, Araneta Center Cubao, or Alabang Grand Terminal to San Juan, Batangas. The earliest ... Read more

We were few meters past Barangay Dawis proper when the conductor gazed at me, and then asked in the local language; “You’re alighting at Niludhan, right?” – reaffirming that I am not going farther than what I paid for. I shelled out ₱68 as fare from Bayawan City terminal to Sitio Niludhan in Barangay Dawis. After few minutes, the conductor struck the metal railings, signalling the driver to pull over. Then, for the second time around, he looked at me telling that its high time for me to vacate my seat and disembark. I didn’t see it as a rude ... Read more

Settled at 1000 meters above sea level, and is sandwiched between Roxas-Matulas and Daguma Mountain Ranges, the municipality of Lake Sebu is unsurprisingly temperate and abundantly vegetated. Springs and rivers from these rolling hills provide continuous water supply to the three important watersheds of the town, namely; Lake Sebu, Lake Lahit, and Lake Seloton. The home of the indigenous T’Boli, Ubo, Tiruray, and Manobo tribes is also known for its majestic water cascades, mighty rivers, and a mega-diverse ecosystem, prompting the government to develop and promote the town as an eco-tourism and cultural destination. The lotuses (or loti) are in full bloom in ... Read more

With both the mini rice terraces and Tibiao River in the backdrop, I selected the farthest kawa. I want the experience somewhat isolated and noteworthy, so I chose a location distant enough from any deterrents. When I told the staff of Kayak Inn of my chosen kawa, they started filling it with water, and then picked herbs and flowers for the hot bath, based on their decades-old formula. Kawa Hot Bath formula While it was being prepared, I joined my water tubing guide to get to the drop off. Tibiao River Tubing Kuya guide briefed me about the safety of ... Read more

Off the coast of Mauban floats a small island, Cagbalete, which looks ordinary at first glance. However, a great scenery resides underneath its waters, which only reveals at low tide. Cagbalete Island is one of the pride of Quezon province. It features wide coastlines and an ecologically diverse habitat. The verdant greens serves as a host to unique bird and plant species. Moreover, the waters surrounding it is a home to abundant marine life. Cagbalete is a total package for adventurers and nature-lovers who seek for a tranquil getaway. If you are planning to see Cagbalete Island one of these days, this guide may ... Read more

Sleepy and tired, I endured Cebu’s interminable, Friday gridlock. My flight was 10PM, and getting through the slow-moving traffic requires a lot of perseverance, though I wasn’t the one driving. However, instead of getting upset, I thought of the beautiful adventure that awaits at the other end of that journey. I arrived in Kalibo as scheduled. However, trips for Antique were no longer available. Hence, I stayed in the city, rented a room for 6 hours, and then headed to Pandan immediately before sunrise. Malumpati Health Sprint Resort cabanas Malumpati Health Spring Resort Like normal river resort, cabanas are set ... Read more

The grueling weekday routine could be stressful. Moving back and forth from the office to home is even worse. You may bump some random sulky strangers, exchange some heated useless arguments, or got stuck in an unending gridlock. These stuff make me rather impulsive to look for quick weekend getaway, a location distant enough from the toxic metro. Before the most desired toodle-oo on the week’s terminal hours, I scanned around the internet to look for suggestions. I planned for a desolate trip again, masturdating, as they say, hence a staycation would be the top option. Then I found The ... Read more