Monthly Archives: January 2013

Of Candles and Birthday Cakes in the Year of the Snakes

Minutes before the 30th of January,

And I’m starting to get wary,

Will this change of year for me be happy?

Or will it bring nothing but worry?

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Blowing Candles

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You see this isn’t sentences and paragraphs in a post,

But a parade of lines in rhyming words and prose,

Reminds me of the PTB Blog Carnival that’s just to poetic,

So let’s just move on before I become less energetic.

 

I am not a poet, a verse lover, or the like,

I just love writing this way though you may dislike.

So today please allow me to rant and to grunt,

In the hope that you’ll stay there in front.

 

Thank God the world did not come to an end,

I still have a lot of my thoughts to lend.

Today as 22 becomes 23,

I’d like to share to you things of value to me.

 

May they be future plans,

Or something in the past,

 I wanna share them amassed,

In the  hope that you’ll be inspired at a glance.

1. Birthday Trip on Top of the Clouds

You may be wondering where the wanderer will be,

On the big day that is today,

Hope you’ll not be disappointed or so,

For my trip will still be tomorrow.

 

Now you’ll ask where shall I be,

I’ll answer you in a place I long to be,

On top of the clouds and winter frost,

 Find out where in this adventurous post.

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–> READ MORE HERE

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2. The Birth of my New ‘Vigor’ous Adventure: Biking

Newest Travel Buddy - VIGOR!

Newest Travel Buddy – VIGOR!

On this day also is a time of another’s birth,

Not a person nor another living being,

But something that’s really of worth,

Useful for fleeing and sightseeing.

 

Yes, it is a bike,

Something that I long like,

Now that I have it,

There’s no stopping me where I could get.

 

Vigorous Adventurous Bike

Vigorous Adventurous Bike

I wish to discover faraway places,

As I leave my bicycle’s traces,

See more trees, hills, and valleys untied,

And have that really, really looong bike ride.

Care to join me for a ride?

Care to join me for a ride?

3. Spend Less and Travel More

This year, I also opt to save,

To travel is brave,

But I believe some things needs to be waived,

So this itchy feet’s will mildly behave.

 

Spend less and travel more,

How could that happen anymore?

Need not worry or put on a roar,

For I’ll make sure I’ll still give you travel tales and more.

 

To write of places near where I reside,

That’s what I will be doing with pride,

To travel more within my province,

Show you more for you to be convinced,

That it is indeed more fun here ever since.

4. Investing More (and helping others too)

Apart from that, I’ll also teach you how to invest,

As we’ll give the stock market a test,

Expect more from this day and the rest,

For I’ll be giving you something you’d like to digest.

 

I’ve already started in this basic stock market post,

Revisit it for you to get the most,

More will come that I tell you,

Together we will grow.

5. Continuous Learning: Taking Online Courses & Classes

To grow we need to learn,

That I always yearn,

Glad to know a place I could turn,

Somewhere to have my mind in constant discern.

 

The place’s called Coursera –

An online community

That offers education for free,

From the top universities,

You’ll surely learn with glee.

 

Now I’ve started my quest,

I hope you wish me the best,

Time to end this lengthy post,

You, I’d like to thank the most.

 

Thank you,

And may all our dreams come true.

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A Birthday Trip on Top of The Clouds

Ever wondered where I’ll be heading?

Fret no more, for it’s somewhere high that many are dreading,

Ever heard the news?

That the temperature there’s less than zero degree celsius?

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Where else could this be?

Known as the rooftop of Luzon,

And dubbed as the third highest mountain peak in the country,

None other than, the beaming Mt. Pulag.

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Yes, there’s nothing more adventurous for Adventuroj,

Than to take on this challenge,

So here’s the itinerary that’s prearranged,

Stay tuned for the future photos, posts and more!

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Hike to Mt Pulag

At the summit of Mt. Pulag. (Photo courtesy of Tin Fuentebella)

Checklist / What to Bring on Mt Pulag?

  • Clothes (2+1 pairs)
  • Fleece Jacket/Down jacket/Shell (must be suited to temperatures of 0–7 degrees Celsius/32-45 Fahrenheit )
  • Raingear
  • Trekking Pants/Jogging Pants
  • Extra socks
  • Trekking Shoes/Rubber Shoes/Sandals
  • Gloves
  • Bonnet/Head gear/Scarf/malong
  • Plastic bags (for water proofing of your bags, clothes, cameras and other items)
  • Sleeping bag / Tent
  • Large Garbage bags (at least 2 pcs)
  • Flashlight/Headlamp (plus, extra batteries)
  • Personal whistle
  • Personal meds and First Aid Kit
  • Tissue Paper
  • Mess kit (Plate or container bowl, utensils)
  • Water bottle (at least 3 liters if you’re sensitive to unfamiliar water; or just a 1-2 liter container, easily refillable with cool, fresh, clean and potable mountain water)
  • Personal Trail food (candies, chocolates, cookies; to share!)
  • Camera (for photo ops!)

PROPOSED ITINERARY:

via AMBANGUEG – AMBANGUEG TRAIL

Day 0

  • 2200 Take bus to Baguio City

Day 1

  • 0400 ETA Baguio City. Breakfast then proceed to jeepney terminal/chartered jeep.
  • 0530 Take chartered jeepney to Ambangeg.
  • 1000 ETA Visitors’ Center. Registration / Orientation
  • 1130 Set out for Ranger Station 1230 ETA and lunch at Ranger.
  • 1300 Start trek 1430 ETA Camp 1
  • 1600 ETA Camp 2. Set up camp; optional summit assault.
  • 1800 Dinner at campsite; socials

Day 2

  • 0430 Early morning trek to summit for sunrise
  • 0545 Arrival at summit just in time for sunrise
  • 0700 Start descent from summit
  • 0800 Back at Camp 2; heavy breakfast
  • 0900 Decamp; start descent to Ranger Station
  • 1130 Back at Ranger; Settle guide fees; jeepney descent
  • 1230 Back at Visitors’ Center; tidy up and log out
  • 1400 Head back to Baguio City
  • 1700 ETA Baguio City. Dinner.
  • 1900 Head back to Manila

Tour Package and Itinerary courtesy of Roadtrip Adventure Travel and Tours for 2,500php (all in).

roadtrip

Investing 101: The Secret to How I Started Traveling

Somebody once asked me, “Roj, paano mo nagagawang mag travel? Where do you get your travel fund?”

Right now, you might probably be asking the same question. And so today, I would like to end all answer-seeking there is.

I’m going to write a series here in my blog on how to save and invest, for all of us to enjoy financial freedom someday and start traveling!

So let me begin.

How I Fund My Travel?

travel roj 2013 small

You probably know by now that I am a Registered Nurse by profession. And I am proud of that.

But I hope I’ll not disappoint you if I said that I am not a practicing Nurse at present. Why?

Simple. Because I want to travel. And I think realizing this dream will be a difficult one if I would be working day and night in the hospital.

And I also do not want to add myself to the ballooning number of Nurses looking for jobs , getting a meager income, some are even the ones paying for the experience instead of receiving a salary.

How tough could that get?

And so I settled for an online job. And no, not my blog. For I DO NOT EARN ANYTHING FROM MY BLOG, contrary to the belief of many people.

My blog is just a passion of mine. A hobby. A way of sharing to the world all my travel and adventures.

I work online, specifically at Odesk.com. There I handle various clients, mostly from the US and they pay me by the hour. I do research, email marketing, project management, etc. The salary’s not big, nor not small, but it is enough to fund my wanderlust.

Let’s Start Investing!

Backpacking: A Budget Friendly Way of Traveling

Is it wise to ‘put’ money in the bank?

Take note of the word ‘put’. You may wonder why I used this instead of using “Save money in the bank”.

Because I believe that:

When you put money in the bank you are not saving, You are lending.

Yes. That is true. The only way I think that putting money in the bank could be of help is for your Emergency Funds. I’ll be talking later about this

Why will you choose to put your hard earned money in the bank that earns ONLY 1% INTEREST RATE ANNUALLY, or 5% in Time Deposits, not included to that the taxes, etc, WHEN YOU COULD INVEST IT AT A MINIMUM OF 12%?

But invest where and how?

Let me introduce you now to the Stock Market.

Introduction to the Stock Market

This investment series of posts has been long overdue.

I’ve been planning to write this for the longest time.

But I felt it wasn’t the right time.

Because I was still in the process of learning and experiencing how is it to invest in the stock  market myself.

But now the time has come. It has been 3 months since I started setting apart of my monthly income and INVEST it in the stock market, and to tell you IT REALLY DOES GROW.

Note: I didn’t say “Trade”  in the Stock Market. Because there’s a giant difference. Let me explain that.

Why ‘Investing’ in the Stock Market is not so dangerous at all?

“The stock market is dangerous!”

Have you heard that before?

I have. Many times. And you know what? I agree.

After all, statistics say that 85% of stock market players lose their money. Believe me, billions have been lost.

But whenever people say, “The stock market is dangerous!” they’re referring to trading in the stock market. Not investing in the stock market.

There’s a big difference:

Trading is buying stocks and selling them within a day or a few days.

Investing is buying stocks and selling them in six months or never!

Warren Buffet, the richest man the stock market has ever made, said, “Only buy something that you’d be perfectly happy to hold if the market shut down for ten years.”

Here’s why I believe you should be investors: I don’t believe ordinary people should be trading. I repeat, 80% of people lose their money in the stock market. My belief is that most of those 80% are traders.

Invest Monthly and Regularly

If you want to invest in the stock market, there’s only one choice: Money Cost Averaging.

That’s just a fancy name for buying stocks of great companies, little by little, each month.

Perhaps P5000 a month. Or P10,000 a month. Or whatever fixed amount you’re can set aside from your monthly earnings.

The important thing is to do it regularly. When you do this, you’ll find your money growing steadily year after year.

Are you already eager to find out how?

Investing in the Stock Market

Looking Onwards to 2013

I often hear people say that they are investing in the stock market, and always wanted to give it a try as well, but I DO NOT KNOW HOW.

I also thought that investing in it could be done only via stock brokers (these are the people you hire, you let them handle your money and they’ll be the one to invest it in the stock market).

Then I found out through my research that YOU COULD INVEST START INVESTING IN THE STOCK MARKET YOURSELF.

No middle man. No stock broker. Less expenses. More savings.

Great isn’t it? But how? Let me introduce you to CITISEC ONLINE.

What is Citisec Online?

I don’t work for Citiseconline. But I highly recommend that you use it as your way into the market.

I’m recommending it to you because they’re the best online trading platform in the country today. They’re also the biggest.

Trust me on this, I’ve researched them well.

Getting Started on Citisec Online?

Citiseconline has made it very simple for small investors. They created the Easy Investment Program or EIP.

If you have P5000 or more, you can start investing. P5000 is the initial minimum amount. It’s up to you how much you’ll invest after that. Log in to WWW.CITISECONLINE.COM to get started.

Every month, you can deposit P5000 (or whatever amount you want to put in) into your Citiseconline account. No need to go to their office to do this. You can do it through a bank deposit via any branch of BDO, BPI, Security Bank, and HSBC.

From the comfort of your home, you can open your computer, log onto the website, and buy the stocks that you like. You’re doing it. You’re in control.

What Stocks Should I Buy?

I said “Buy stocks that you like”, BUT THESE SHOULD NOT BE JUST ANY STOCKS.

You have to make sure that the stock you buy are from established companies ; solid, great companies that will make you wealthy in 20 years.

But how will you know that?

Simple. You could join in a club called the TRULY RICH CLUB.

Why Should I Join The Truly Rich Club?

The TRULY RICH CLUB is founded by Bo Sanchez, an author known for his best selling books, inspiring talks, and yes, financial mentoring.

Upon joining the club, Bo will bug you every month to invest. He will email you his Stocks Update containing the list of the companies that we should invest.

Here are some sample snapshots of what the Stock Update contains –

Sample Stock Update

sample stock update bo sanchez

sample stock update bo sanchez 2

Apart from receiving the Stocks Update, he’ll also be sending out daily inspirational emails, monthly newsletters, DVDs, interviews, power talks on how to view money, in terms of relationships and on building businesses and character ;  and of course, personal growth materials.

Why I recommend joining the Truly Rich Club?

I honestly believe that in today’s world, information is king. If you are not informed, you will be left out. You will always be wondering how come others are getting financially ahead while you’re still stuck working at a dead-end job you really hate.

So why wait any further?

What will you get when you join the Truly Rich club?

Here’s a sneak peak of what you will receive:

truly rich club resources

  • 2 Power talks every month (instant access via MP3)
  • Bo Sanchez Success Mentors Collection every 3 months
  • 4 Wealth Strategies newsletter every month
  • Daily God’s Whispers email
  • How To Be Truly Rich Seminar
  • How To Conquer Your Goliaths E-book
  • How To Turn Thoughts Into Things E-book
  • My Maid Invests in the Stock Market E-book (I’ll be giving this as a FREE TREAT at the end of the post)
  • STOCKS UPDATE (Monthly update of what company Bo Sanchez invests in)
  • Earn passive income by becoming Bo Sanchez affiliate in the Truly Rich Club

Free Ebook Copy

Below is an ebook that I’ll be sharing to you and it’s all yours for FREE. I recommend you to read them to get to know more about the Stock Market, Citiseconline, and the truly rich club. (JUST CLICK BELOW TO DOWNLOAD)

HOW I TAUGHT MY MAID TO INVEST IN THE STOCK MARKET EBOOK

my-maid-invest-in-the-stock-market-399x550

How To Be A Member of Truly Rich Club?

To be a member of Truly Rich Club by Bo Sanchez you need to register —> HERE

For just a small monthly membership fee, you’re off to a start of financial freedom and wise investment.

So if you are ready to gain financial wealth and spiritual abundance then click the link below:

JOIN NOW!

Feel free to contact me via my EMAIL ; or send me a message at my FACEBOOK ACCOUNT if you have any questions.

Happy investing everyone!

13 Things Why You’ll Love New Beginnings this 2013

Two Thousand Thirteen,

A year that had been.

2012 in Review

Of earthquakes, landslides, typhoons and devastations,

Of Scarborough Shoal’s disputes and allegations,

A defeat in the Ring, and a death of a King,

Plus the conviction of a reigning Chief Justice.

But of course, let it not be forgotten,

We also triumphed back then.

With Jessica Sanchez, Janine Tugonon, Nonito Donaire, and Pedro Calungsod.

That made us all glued.

 

With the epic fail December 21 End of the World prediction,

Are you saying #Amalayer?

I hope not for I did not plagiarize,

Why not just rejoice and take a look of The Year Like We Traveled Like It’s The End of the World PTB Year Ender (Part I and Part II)?

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January 2013 PTB Blog Carnival

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Now that yesteryear’s done,

2013 has come,

And to make this year more fun,

I’m bringing to you the Pinoy Travel Blogger’s Blog Carnival!

 

But to make this year stand out from the rest,

Let this post not be of paragraphs and sentences,

But of poetry, prose and wild, wild west,

Seeking to bring out the best for what we store within our vest.

 

And so, this month’s theme is about New Beginnings

Of men and women in blue jeans,

Most in loved with coffee beans,

In front of their computer screens.

— Enough with the rhymes,

But what’s sure is their love for the Philippines.

 

So let’s not wait any further,

It’s getting darker from where I’m writing,

There are mosquitoes biting,

And it’s never delighting.

 

This month of January,

The month that I loved the most,

My birth month, in winter atmosphere and heavy frost,

I want nothing but the best for this post.

 

To host this Carnival, I’m not aware,

A dream come true –  That, I’m aware,

But war’s been declared,

And so I present to you 34 Travel Bloggers,

All with their twist and turn love affairs.

 

Affairs with travel, adventure, wanderlusts, and more.

Let’s get to know them one by one,

As they talk about their NEW plans, NEW projects,

NEW resolutions, NEW mindset, and even a NEW love life!

 

To you I bring,

On this side of the ring,

This post of NEW BEGINNINGS

For this year to come – 2013!

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13 New Beginnings For 2013

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1. New Travel Buddies

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2013 opens with the birth of new travel writers,

Fellow itchy feets

Welcomed in blazing PTB trumpets,

And fancy carpets.

 

First is Yaj Abellera aka rjdexplorer,

A study about tourism and to interview foreigners,

Visit 20 provinces this year,

And meet more travel bloggers.

 

That’s just some of his 2013 travel list,

Read the rest at Yaj Abellera – Time to Step Up: Areas to Work on for 2013

 

A year to open our hearts to new and exciting possibilities,

Exploring and knowing our very own places,

Like how she prides her beloved City of Iloilo,

Is what 2013 for Antoine will be.

Read the rest of his post at Antoine Greg – 2013 – I will continue to put my heart & soul into my Photos.

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An inquisitive story of a little girl in her little world of fantasy,

An observer of storytellers and wanderers of places this and that,

Witness how she steps out ready to combat in the real world,

Read here as her story unfurled — 

Nathelle Lumabad – Not-so-little Beginnings | The Little Girl Goes Places

2. Travel Wishes, Fortunes and Astrology

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No tarot reading nor astrology prediction,

Will deter Mich’s convictions,

More mountains, beaches & island hopping ahead,

Visit her post to have your fortune read.

Mich Borlagdan , Chasing Philippines: Keep Calm and Keribels: The 2013 Travel Plans & Predictions

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For a person born in the year of the snake,

This year will surely be ‘snake’y for Armie,

A handful of dreams, plans and hopes,

An outreach program, a healthy year ahead, and more.

Armie Abigania – DREAMS, PLANS, and HOPES for 2013 YEAR of the SNAKE

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Seeking to make his 2013 a little less lonelier,

The Lonely Travelogue wishes more meet ups with fellow wanderers,

Plus plans on climbing Mt Pulag,

And monetizing his blog.

Read more of his plans at Jherson Jaya – Lonely Travelogue: My Traveling Life 2013

3. Tales and Trails of Growing Up

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A year packed of ambitions and aspirations,

That’s how Regine sets her mission,

To dream and aspire in childlike eyes,

Visit her post to be surprised.

Regine Camille Garcia – People Love Ambitious Travelers

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A line in French,

A drink to quench,

And a man who sat by the bench.

 

This is how Reiza opened her post.

A year of immersion this year will be at most,

More talks with the local folks,

More mingling and people watching,

All parts of growing in traveling.

 

See a wanderer who travels – for real, here – Reiza Dejito – The Wanderer Grows Up

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Bye bye baby steps,

And hello to Solo trips,

That’s what Sarah has in her 2013 travel wish list,

Find out more if she’ll be brave enough to face this feat.

Sarah Grace Callanga – wandering potpot: 2013 A Year of Solo Travels

4. Of Travel Pairs and Love Affairs

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Missy started her scribbles for the snake with a hiss,

With plans that this year she’ll travel less,

She’ll no longer be a lass but soon will be a bride,

Is this for real or are you in for a bribe?

Find out more: Missy Penaverde – Scribbles for the Snake

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Despite last year’s disappointments and failed bookings,

The Pinaythrillseeker’s still celebrating,

A dream wedding and a honeymoon,

In a place many longs to be,

Find out where in her romantic and moving post here

Cris Reyes Galang, the PinayThrillSeeker – 2013: Just Dreams. Not Plans. Except for One. 

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Mhe-anne Ojeda sure got this year planned already,

With love plans of settling down,

You’ll see her this year in her wedding gown,

More love tales and motherhood plans at 

Mhe-anne Ojeda  – A Peek At My 2013 Planner: That “One And Only” Thing To Do Monthly !

5. Endless Travel Plans

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An Open Letter to 2013,

Is what Marj Garra has in her pen,

Attending a music festival, and plans of diving and trekkings

Are some of her new beginnings.

Marj Garra – An Open Letter to 2013

 

This 2013,

It’s a different story for Nikka and Owen,

With sharks and sea turtles in it,

Read the rest of how they’ll take a dip and its every bit.

Nikka Corsino and Owen Ballesteros – Sharks and surprises: 2013’s first month so far

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Kaiye and Endette on the other hand aims to really save up this year,

Although plans on going on solo trips exist,

But surely they will still travel as a pair somewhere,

To explore and learn something from every destination,

Aside from the usual what, when and where.

Kaiye Pallarco and Endette Mendoza – Wherever The Wind Takes Us

6. Get Up and Get Going Travelogues

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A year that is brighter than ever,

Is how Paula views 2013,

Believing that when things don’t go as you wished for,

Traveling is the best remedy there is.

Paula Anntoneth O – Off To A New Start

 

Mimai may not have the perfect start of the year, but who cares?

She sure still have the remaining 360+ days to do what she dares,

To explore, shoot, and discover

See more of her plans here.

Mimai Cabugnason  – What To Do This 2013?

7. An Around the World Travel Path

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An end and a beginning for Josiah is what 2013 will be,

The end to a promise not to travel outside his country,

And the beginning of his first footsteps outside his native land,

Read here what he has in hand

Josiah Sicad – 2013: Starting off where my promise ended

Bitten by the travel bug this 2013,

A travel wish list is set for Catherine,

Journeying through Morocco, Germany, Slovakia, and more –

Include to that a plan to see Iceland’s Aurea Borealis,

Her post you really shouldn’t miss.

Catherine Iblan – Travel Wish List for 2013!

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After thrashing out the end of the world belief,

To walk over new grounds is how Marky sees himself,

From the far bending corners of the Philippines to Indonesia, Laos, and India,

And to far away Montreal in Canada.

 

It sure do doesn’t hurt to dream for this traveler! Read the rest of his 2013 plans on 

Marky Ramone Go – Post End of the World Travel Plans

8. Unplanned Beginnings and Random Wanderings

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Travelers with no specific plans,

To how this year they’ll dance,

Rest be assured they’ll make a blast,

For 2013 they’ll still travel amassed

 

No specific travel plans,

No pre booked promotional tickets,

No bucket lists,

Just letting all else unfold in time –

Go with the flow this 2013 with Riz in

Riz Baldivia – Whatever happens in the year of the Snake!

 

After backpacking Europe for 70 days,

And a travel interview that set her trails ablaze,

Aleah’s not committing into any new year’s resolutions,

“It’s not where you’ve been that matters, but it’s where you’re going,” she says.

Read more at Aleah Phils – Of Meaningful Travels and Other Resolutions

 

A story about ‘Plan’ and its cousin called ‘Dream’,

Is how Rain beamed his blog opening,

Read the rest of her story as she takes you on a year of dreaming big,

And planning vague on 

Rain Amantiad-Campanilla  – 2013: Will Travel

9. Selfless Travel Deeds

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To give and serve more along the way,

As she commits to travel far away,

Learn new things, and make room for surprises,

Are some that comprises Claire’s 2013.

Claire Madarang – Designing A Life Of Adventure This 2013

 

2013 will be a time to get a pen,

Write the things that we want to put in the bin,

Include to that plans and dreams for his ministry,

These and many more of what 2013 will be

Know more about Ephraim’s The Adventist Adventurer: New Year. New Beginning. New Plans.

 

Held back by a teacup Shih Tzu named Kimi,

Regin’s cutting his travels this year,

Yet need not fear,

For he’ll still be trotting this land,

From the Himalayas, Malaysia, and Thailand,

And a Ministry work to end,

This surely won’t be the end.

Regin Reyno – Regin’s Travels: 2013 Travel Plans

10. Fearless Adventures

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There is no holding back for Pinay Travelista,

As she packs this year with pledges to work,

Travel, Live, and Love more for Lisa.

Read her narrative at Lisa Marie Mirasol of Pinay Travelista, 2013 | No Holding Back

 

Take a peek of what’s in store for Journeying James this 2013,

Plans of surfing and joining competitions,

To Dive. Hike. Rest. Invest. And more Collaborations.

Journey with him and see the rest of his compilation.

Journeying James – What’s In Store for JourneyingJames this 2013?

 

This 2013 there’ll be more for Ervin,

More trails to like,

Mountains to hike,

All for the love of adventure and the like!

Ervin Malicdem – 2013 Schadow1 Expeditions Outlook

11. Travel Giveaways

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Driving in Australia in day two of 2013,

Setting plans on going places they’ve never been,

For by next year they’ll surely be anchored somewhere,

As preschool welcomes their daughter.

 

Not just that, Gay’s been so happy and gay,

To share her happiness with us as she begins 2013 with a giveaway!

Check out her blog to find out more! 

Gay Mitra-Emami – Dawn Of 2013: A Giveaway

12. Massive Travel Projects

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To complete her 80 before 30 project,

Visit places no one will expect,

The less touristy and some off beaten destinations,

Is Che Gurrobat’s 2013 expectations.

Che Gurrobat – 2013: Go Somewhere You’ve Never Been and Do Something You’ve Never Done

 

Now on his 5th year of traveling around the Philippines,

Pinoy Adventurista laid out his plan for this 2013,

A visit in Batanes and Sulu to complete his #80PHL Challenge,

He also wishes to venture on more adventures, attend more festivals, and organize group tours

For all of us to experience how it is to travel ‘The Pinoy Adventurista’ way..

 

Head on to his blog at to read the rest of his plans:

Pinoy Adventurista – Things I Want to Accomplish on my 5th Year of Traveling around the Philippines

 

Surely a massive year for Glen this 2013 portrays,

A plan to circle the Philippines in 50 days,

The launch of his PHL50 Travel Project,

Of many will really expect.

 

Join him as he travels the Philippines overland non-stop from Mindanao to Visayas and Luzon and back to Mindanao for 50 days.      Glen Santillan – PHL50 : Around the Philippines in 50 Days.

13. Not a World End but a Beginning of a New One

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2013 new age

And after all that’s been said and done,

It’s now my turn to have my take on this one,

Glad to have reached the end,

I hope your eyes I could still lend.

 

It’s been quite a long journey up there,

Countless lines, limitless prose – of that we are aware,

Now you’ll ask what’s 2013 for me will be?

Need not fret, for I won’t flee.

travel roj 2013 small

2013’s a new beginning –

Another year for sightseeing,

My bucket list will be needing another filling,

After this 30 for Adventuroj  — for 2013.

30 for me  – – – for 2013

1.        Go firing guns in a shooting range

2.        Water rafting

3.        Spelunking

4.        Hike as many mountains as possible

5.        Camp out in a far away non touristed outcast island

6.        Go where my feet or wheels will take me until i get lost

7.        Do something I’ve never done at least once a month

8.        Do more surfing and really learn the art and craft of it!

9.        Diving (again) and take oohh-some underwater photos

10.     Buy a new mountain bike and take that loooong bike ride

11.     More lazy days and rainy days

12.     More movies to watch

13.     More music to jam

14.     To cook more and eat less

15.     Read more good books

16.     Enhance my photography skills

17.     Go back to the gym, play badminton, and do boxing

18.     To travel within my own province and nearby places, blog, and tell the world how beautiful it is to be here

19.     Be able to make my own Adventuroj logo (and print out shirts =)

20.     Start out a not your ordinary travel blog of photography and poetry

21.     Start a travel YouTube channel

22.     To start my quest for a nonstop around the country backpacking adventure around all 80 Philippine provinces (while working online)

23.     To invest more and help others learn the art of saving pennies for rainy days

24.     Provide more budget travel tips and tricks to help everyone travel as cheap as possible

25.     Get to know and meet more wanderlusts – people who share the same passion and love for travel and adventure

26.     To make a difference to whoever i meet to wherever i go

27.     To be able to “nurse” a soul and more soles that I’ll come across my travels (especially those living in far flung communities)

28.     To trek the road less travelled, going into places not yet discovered

29.     To inspire more Filipinos to travel the Philippines and love it first and foremost before other foreign land

30.     To be MORE in every word, action, deed, and thought, and MORE of who I am.

 

So that’s it!

I know there’ll be more,

But I guess you’re already bored.

 

And now this is the time for parting,

And our time is at an end,

The rest of your life is starting,

And we have no time at all to spend.

 

Until next adventure then,

Thank you for your time, a minute or ten,

Happy New Beginnings I wish to you,

For 2013, what beginning would you do?

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Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.  – Winston Churchill

– – –This is the 27th Edition of the Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ (PTB) Blog Carnival with the topic “2013 New Beginnings”. It is my second blog carnival participation, a new beginning for a new beginner I should say. It is a great honor and pleasure to be the host for this January 2013’s blog carnival as it was one of the things I looked forward to even before being a part of PTB, but more than that, I hope this not so ordinary blog post would be able to live up to its purpose of inspiring all of you to pursuing whatever new beginning you have.

Happy 2013! Check out the carnival’s archive as compiled by Estan Cabigas by clicking the Logo below 🙂

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Bangsi Festival 2013: Schedule of Activities

After the Hinugyaw Festival in Koronadal and the Festive Fluvial Parade in General Santos City, the fun’s not yet ending – for we still have the festival with flying colors in Maitum, ‘flying’ literally because of the star of their festival, the ‘flying’ fish, better known as Bangsi ; hence the name Bangsi Festival.

About Maitum, Sarangani Province

Maitum Municipal Hall

Nature. Adventure. Culture. History and Heritage. Maitum is Sarangani’s cradle of civilization. Its rich history as well as astounding archeological finds, blended with some of the Philippines’ best beaches, waterfalls, distinct biodiversity, mountain ranges, crystal clear rivers make Maitum truly a gem of the Celebes.

And did I mention that I am also a proud local and Ilokano from Maitum? Yes, you could trace my roots there for my father and my grandparents came from this beautiful place. I guess it is also evident that its people is as beautiful as the place. *wink.

Adventuroj Roots at Maitum ; me with my father and grandfather ^^,

Adventuroj Roots at Maitum ; me with my father and grandfather ^^,

This year the town of Maitum will be celebrating its 6th Bangsi Festival. But wait, you may ask, why the name ‘Bangsi’?

What is Bangsi Festival?

This festival celebrates the abundance of fish locally known as “Bangsi” (flying fish), a delicacy that is unique in Maitum in the Province of Sarangani.

The Star of the Festival: The Bangsi

The Star of the Festival: The Bangsi

Women’s organization as well as enterprising individuals had been producing “marinated bangsi”, flying fish which were half-dried on the sun and marinated with local spices.

A local woman threading her net in preparation for the catch

A local woman threading her net in preparation for the catch

The Bangsi Festival celebrates a year round abundant catch that made dried fish a thriving industry in the locality.

Fishermen in pursue of the Bangsi

Fishermen in pursue of the Bangsi

Sugba-sugba sa Bangsi sa Kadalanan

One of the highlights of the festival is the Sugba-sugba sa Bangsi sa Kadalanan. During this event streets will be filled with local folks lined while grilling a ton of Bangsi for everyone who wants to taste this sumptuous delicacy.

Street Dancing Competition

The festival also features a festive street dancing parade performed by representatives coming from different schools. Dance themes portray marine life and the dancers wear colorful costumes symbolizing life in the sea.

Bangsi Festival Schedule of Activities

This year’s festival will fall on January 24 and 25, 2013, with the Theme: “Treasuring Maitum’s Pride”.

Here are the sequence of events in the festivity.

Bangsi Schedule 2013

January 24, 2013 –

4am to 11am

  • Rudes Elem. School
  • Fun Run
  • Zumba sa Kadagatan
  • Opening Program
  • Launching of Photo Safari
  • Contest/Introduction
  • Hawaiian Dance Contest
  • Sand Sculpture
  • Lumba, Bugsay/Langoy
  • Marinated Bangsi Preparation
  • Bangsirit (Bangkarera)

1pm

  • Maitum SME’s Showcase
  • Trade Fair
  • Bangsi Triathlon
  • Bangsi Master Chef

7pm

  • Munting Mutya ng Maitum

January 25, 2013 –

8am to 11am

  • Municipal Gym (Front of Municipal Hall)
  • Parade
  • Culmination Program
  • Drum & Lyre Competition
  • Sugba Sugba og Bangsi sa Kadalanan

1pm

  • JLC
  • Bangsiyawan
  • Slowest Drag Race
  • Tulak Race

7pm

  • Disco & Live Band
Family Portrait with the Bangsi last Christmas 2012

Family Portrait with the Bangsi last Christmas 2012

So will I expect to see you there?

Adventuroj Nominated as Skyscanner’s Best Newcomer Blog

“The unthankful heart discovers no mercies; but the thankful heart will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings.”

Another blessing has come my way, The Adventures of Adventuroj is nominated as one of Skyscanner’s Travel Blog Oscar’s New Comer Blogs in the Philippines.

The winners for each country are going to be determined by the most number of votes. These winners from the Philippines will in turn compete with winners from other countries.

TRAVEL BLOSCARS 2013

What is Bloscars 2013?

The Bloscars 2013 are the Skyscanner Travel  Blog Awards where Skyscanner recognises the excellent work of travel bloggers on informing and inspiring travelers by sharing their adventures and travel experiences.

How Are The Nominees Selected?

From Janet Ranola of Skyscanner Philippines:

The nominees have been selected by colleagues (mostly from our PR and content/SEO team) from both the Singapore and UK offices (I am not included for obvious reasons). I know that there had been a lot of going back and forth when it went down to shortlisting the blogs per category because for the Philippines alone they have come up with about 50 travel blogs that are pretty good. Multiply that process for 10 more countries and you’ve got chaos. That’s the reason why they came up with a readers’ choice category because they all know that they cannot include all these. I’m pretty sure there are a lot of questions, especially from those who think that there are far better blogs (in terms of quality of writing and content, which are the main things that we are looking for) that should be on the list, but please encourage them to campaign for these travel blogs under the readers’ choice category.

Phases of the Competition

The Skyscanner Travel Blog Awards consist of three stages:

  1. The Skyscanner international team nominates 5 bloggers for each of the categories in each country.
  2. Popular Voting: A shortlist of 5 blogs will be chosen by public vote, one blog per category in each country. The shortlist will comprise the 5 blogs receiving the largest number of public votes by the closing date.  Votes are limited to one vote per blog and readers can also nominate a blog that Skyscanner has not already nominated by using the “User´s choice category”.
  1.  The winners from each category will compete against the winners of the other participating countries in the international final, where the Skyscanner international  judging panel  will choose the final winners.

The opening and closing dates of the award are:

–          Nominees are announced on the 17th of January 2013 and voting opens

–          Voting for winners of each categories closes on the 18th of February 2013

–          Country winners of each categories are announced on the 22nd of February 2013

–          Final international winners are announced on the 1st of March 2013

Categories

The  Bloscar awards will cover the following categories:

  • Best female travel blogger: This category is dedicated to female bloggers who have proved to have excellent travel writing skills.
  • Best male travel blogger: This category is dedicated to the male bloggers who have proved to have excellent travel writing skills.
  • Best travel photography blog: This category is dedicated to those travel bloggers who capture the best moments of their travels with their cameras and delight us with outstanding images.
  • Best newcomer travel blog:  This category is dedicated to the new travel blogs which have been around for a year or less but have proven to be excellent travel writers.
  • User´s choice blog:   This will be the only category where Skyscanner readers can nominate a blog (that has not been already nominated by Skyscanner).

Nominees for Travel Bloscars 2013

Best Male Blogger

Best Female Blogger

New Comer Blog

Best Photography

Another feat for Adventuroj of The Adventures of Adventuroj!

Travel Blog Awards

Being nominated in such a prestigious travel blog competition is indeed an honor for me. Within one year of blogging and doing the thing I loved the most – that is ‘traveling’, it is overwhelming to know that one’s efforts are appreciated.

I know this is a tough one. Competing alongside established and well known travel bloggers in the country (most of whom are friends also from the Pinoy Travel Bloggers Facebook Community), is ain’t easy. But I’m not giving up. I always love challenges, and this, I accept as another adventure!

As they say, “Keep Calm and Carry On.” 

Travel Quote

How to Vote for Travel Bloscars 2013?

To vote, just visit https://www.facebook.com/SkyscannerPhilippines/app_522736347746411 or Click any of the two Travel Bloscar Images above (they’re linked to the site).

THE ADVENTURES OF ADVENTUROJ is listed under NEW COMER BLOGS Category. *wink.

You can check the winners for the past year here – http://www.skyscanner.net/news/skyscanner-2012-bloscar-awards.

Not just that, you might also just win yourself a Kindle Fire HD upon voting! Thank you! ^^,

Brgy. Bula Fluvial Patronal Fiesta: GenSan’s Mini Sinulog Festival Pit Senyor!

After the recently concluded Hinugyaw Festival at Koronadal City, I found myself once again venturing into another colorful and vibrant festival, this time in General Santos City –  but unique as it is for it includes a fluvial parade.

My First Fluvial Parade Experience

Yes, this is my first fluvial parade. I’ve always wanted to attend one after seeing travel videos and photos in various parts of the country where fluvial parades are celebrated.

I was lucky enough that my travel buddy’s a relative of one of the owners of a fishing company in GenSan, and so I was grateful to be invited to board one of their vessel ships joining the fluvial parade.

Early Morning Start

January 15, 2013, the day of the feast of Sto Nino, the day started early as 4:30am. Almost 300 fishing vessels assembled their selves  near their respective ports at Brgy Calumpang, in preparation of the parade.

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Boats Assemble for the Fluvial Parade

Boats Assemble for the Fluvial Parade

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My Grateful Hosts for the Event.... Thank you!

My Grateful Hosts for the Event…. Thank you!

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Gensan Fluvial Parade (8)

The Fluvial Parade Tradition

The tradition is that one of these vessels (this year the Safi) will be carrying the Sto Nino and parade it from the Queen Tuna Park (aka Lion’s Beach) to the Fish Port and back ; while all other vessels will sail together with it.

While this is happening, people boarding the vessels (mostly families of fishermen) will be in joyful merriment, eating abundantly, loud talks, jolly music, and of course the Sinulog dance.

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The Vessel Carrying the Sto Nino

The Vessel Carrying the Sto Nino

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The Sinulog Dance

The Sinulog music plays and fills the air while the fluvial parade is going on, with people in the boat where the Sto Nino is held in merry dances while carrying the Sto Nino.

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Gensan Fluvial Parade (33)

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The route continues with Para gliders in the sky joining and daytime fireworks display giving colors to the festivity.

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Vessel ships will try to get as close as possible to the boat carrying the Sto Nino in the pursuit of grabbing a flower from the Sto Nino’s decorated floral array.

Why you should grab a ‘Flower’ during the festivity?

It is a belief that a ‘flower’ from the Sto Nino will bless the one who held this for the entire year, fishermen with abundant catch, safe sailing to the sea, households with plentiful blessings, and more.

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The Sto. Nino Procession

After the fluvial parade, the Sto Nino is transferred to another decorated boat and transported back to Brgy Bula.

By this time hundreds of people awaits at the shore to welcome the Nino.

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Fluvial Parade Video

Here’s a mini clip from GMA News featuring the festivity.

– – –

Indeed, this fluvial parade is a must watch merriment. So if you want to join next year, you know where to head to on the 15th of January! See you there!

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Travelling down Southern Cebu to Dumaguete in Negros

After our spiritual journey to Simala Church, we continued with our adventure travelling down Southern Cebu.

Our destination: the Liloan port going to Sibulan in Negros.

Travelling South Cebu

Although we have just passed, here are some great and must-see nooks and crannies on the Southern part of Cebu that you might wanna check out the next time you’ll be heading there (as I will in my next trip to Cebu!)

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Carcar

I’m sure you have heard about the chicharon and lechon of Carcar. But this municipality definitely has more than that to offer. Also known as the Heritage City because of its rich architectural details – with structures built on various American and Spanish periods.

I’ve had a taste of it’s chicharon during the bus stop through a vendor selling it.

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Sibonga

For the devout Catholics, one of the main destinations of Sibonga is the Simala Shrine. It features the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist. It is popular among devotees because it is believed to be the home of the miraculous Virgin Mary. Read more of my visit to Simala HERE

Boljoon

At first glace, Boljoon may not seem so significant as it usually just come across as a quaint seaside town. But at a closer look, you will soon find out there is definitely more to see. One of the must-visit places is the oldest church in Cebu, which was declared as a National Historical Landmark.

Santander

You have probably heard about the famous beaches of Cebu. One of the accessible diving spots is located in Santander with its close proximity to the famouse Apo Island, Pescador, Sumilon, and Siquijor.

Badian

One of the primary attractions of Badian is its string of breathtaking beaches. Of course, its main attraction would have to be the Kawasan Falls and the Kabokalan Springs. With the different types of flora and fauna, it can be quite a treat to walk along the river canyon.

Moalboal

Moalboal is best known for its beaches and unique underwater configurations. Since the beaches are still not well developed, you can expect considerably cheaper rates.

Arrival at Liloan Port

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How to go to Negros from Cebu?

One option you have is taking the route from Liloan, Cebu to Sibulan, Negros Oriental

  • By Boat: Several times daily with a big outrigger. The last departure is about 8pm. *Luckily we were able to get in to the 2nd to the last trip. (20 minutes travel time)

Arrival at the Sugar Island of the Philippines

It was around 8pm when we arrived at the Sugar Capital of the Philippines, the Island of the Negritos, Negros!

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Immediately we hopped on a public jeepney heading to Dumaguete city to look for an affordable accommodation to spend the night.

Budget Accommodation in Dumaguete City

We even had a difficulty as almost all that we’ve asked for are already fully booked. So we ended up in Negros Oriental Lodging house for our first night.

Negros Lodging House

Vintage Inn Dumaguete

On our second night, we booked (and I recommend this place) at Vintage Inn. The Vintage Inn might well be the best value in Dumaguete for budget travelers. They’re located across the street from the public market, few steps from the Cathedral (since we are also planning to attend the first day of Misa de Gallo, December 16, during our trip here).

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Customer service is also great. They allowed us to leave our baggage early in the morning though we can’t check in yet, since we plan on going somewhere else (in Bais) and don’t want to have our heavy bags with us.

Vintag Inn Contact Details

  • Cell: 0939 8950 982, 0917 7270 305
  • Landline: (035) 225 1076, (035) 422 9106, (35) 422 8822
  • Fax: (035) 225 1076

Vintage Inn Dumaguete

Tomorrow will be another day! Hmm? Time to find out if my stay in the Sugar Capital of the Philippines will be as sweet as its name? What do you think?

Robinsons Dumaguete

Heritage Walking Tour in Vigan

To complete our Ilocandia Adventure, we headed to the City of Vigan, the second greatest architectural legacy of the Spaniards, next to Intramuros in Manila.

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Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. It is a World Heritage Site in that it is one of the few Hispanic towns left in the Philippines.

why vigan

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Along cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages clip-clop through beautifully weathered mansions finished with terracotta roofs, capiz shell windows and wrought-iron grillwork. No other town in the Philippines evokes old-world allure better than the provincial capital of Vigan in Ilocos Sur.

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Even commercial buildings of popular Philippine brands have been constructed to blend Vigan’s traditional architecture.

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Walking Tour Around Vigan

If there’s a destination in the Philippines where going for a tour is easier than easy, then it is in Vigan.

You can start at any point. For us we started at the Saint Paul Cathedral, also known as the Vigan Cathedral.

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Vigan Cathedral

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St. Paul’s Cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia. It follows a Baroque architectural design that has been modified by Ilocanos to strengthen the structure against earthquakes. This is now known as earthquake Baroque. Testament to the style’s effectivity is the fact that the structure’s original interior walls have remained complete. Facing the cathedral, visitors are greeted by the statue of St. Paul above the main opening.

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Plaza Salcedo and Other Landmarks

Right in front of the Saint Paul Cathedral is the Plaza Salcedo, named after the Spanish conqueror, Juan de Salcedo who subdued the early native settlement in Vigan and established upon it Villa Fernandina for the monarchs of Spain in 1572. It is also important to note that Plaza Salcedo was the site of the execution of Gabriela Silang in September of 1763. The first woman leader of the Philippine revolution was publicly hanged there to serve as a warning to the restive populace.

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Next to Plaza Salcedo are the administrative buildings—the Casa Real or provincial administrative office, and the municipio (municipal hall). A stone’s throw away are the religious buildings—the seminary of the archdiocese and the Arzobispado (Archbishop’s Palace).

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Arzobispado (Archbishop’s Palace)

The Arzobispo is the only Spanish-period Archbishop’s residence in the Philippines that’s still in use.

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Vigan walking tour (8)

Plaza Burgos

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Vigan Museums

Vigan Museum

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Simbaan a Bassit

Not far you could find the Simbaan a Bassit, which means “small church” in Ilocano. It is a cemetery chapel built in the 1850’s.

Simbaan a Bassit

Other popular places tourists visit when in Vigan are the Baluarte and the Hidden Garden, both are just a tricycle or kalesa ride away.

Baluarte

The Baluarte or fortress is a must-see attraction for first time visitors, and even for those who have visited Vigan before.

The reasons for its being on the list of places to visit are two. First is that it has a mini zoo with animals from other countries and others endemic to the Philippines. It is a private collection and is therefore continuously being improved. The second reason is that it is owned by Mr. Chavit Singson, a well-loved son of Vigan and well-known to most Filipinos and foreigners who follow the Philippine political scene.

It is also dedicated to facilitate education, conservation and protection of endangered species and wildlife. Children and those who are young at heart will rediscover life amongst the animals in unique and entertaining ways specifically through first-hand experience.

Baluarte photo (2)

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Hidden Garden

Hidden Garden is located in Bulala (a barrio known for its making of bricks, pots, and other objects made of clay), it is a wonderland of greenery, with a mini-snack bar nestled somewhere in the middle. It is a vast landscape of nurtured lush gardens of bromeliads, ferns, palms, bamboo and bonsai. It boasts of large potted bird’s nest ferns, bromeliads girding a miniature waterfall or providing ground cover for a clump of bamboo, air plants growing on driftwood, and bonsai and ornamental stones dividing a pathway.

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Strolling around it is truly a relaxing and refreshing experience. We also discover this indoor plant said to removes toxins.

The Sansevieria Bacularis – the new variety of indoor plant has microscopic pores that absorbs floating substances and toxins in the air. This plant is also called ‘Air Purifier’

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Strolling Around Calle Crisologo

And of course, one is said not to have visited Vigan if he/she haven’t strolled around Calle Crisologo.

Calle Crisologo will bring you back to the period in Philippine Spanish colonial time with its cobblestone streets, the gorgeous backdrop of the old houses against the shadows of each houses, and of course the clacking noise of horse driven carriage, kalesa.

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Though a trip to Calle Crisologo is enjoyable during the day especially because of the opportunity to shop for Vigan’s best products (antiques, abel woven products, bags, basi wine, burnay and dimili products, chicharon, jewelry, sweets, Vigan vinegar and woodcrafts) in the inobtrusive shops located in the ground floor of some of the grand houses, a walk through it is magical at night.

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Adventuroj Meets Edmaration #thetownexplorer

Apart from the Vigan Tour, that night Adventuroj also met a fellow Pinoy Travel Blogger who happens to be an Registered Nurse also, and a true blooded resident of Vigan, Edmar from www.Edmaration.com.

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He warmly accommodated us to their house for the night since we were running out of budget for our tour. hehe. Talk about Filipino hospitality. Thanks a lot Edmar!

People in Vigan

If there’s another thing that made me adore Vigan, that is its people.  The people here are probably among the kindest I’ve met in all my travels. For one they do not take advantage of tourists / travelers, unlike the many others who will definitely empty your pocket of their sky high prices, particularly of overpriced transportation fares.

It is only here in Vigan where I met a tricycle driver who after bringing us into our destination and asked how much we need to pay him, answered, “Kayo na po ang bahala Maam”.

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Ciudad ti Bigan, I will truly miss you…

 – – –

And yes, I also spotted this signage while strolling around , do you know that in Vigan, Forbes Park is only a Purok? haha 😀

Vigan Signage

How to go to Vigan?

Vigan is 7 to 8 hours from Manila by bus. Popular bus lines are Partas (PHP 605) and Dominion (PHP 580), which depart from Cubao, Quezon City. The cheapest ride is Aniceto Trans at Sampaloc, Manila for only PHP 420, but they don’t have frequent trips, so call them at +632 7315180 for the schedule. The bus from Vigan to Manila leaves once daily at 9:00 PM along Liberation Blvd, near Simbaan a Bassit.”

Cheap Accommodations in Vigan?

Henady Inn

For those looking for basic accommodation, check out the newly-opened Henady Inn, located along the National Highway in Bantay, next to the Caltex Station and just right across the Vigan City Arch. The town center is just 15 minutes walk away, or you can take a short tricycle ride.

  • Tel. +63 77 7228001 or +63 9175158001
  • Rates start at PHP 200/person/night for a fan dorm room. Private double rooms are great value at PHP 600 with A/C, CATV and toilet.

Grandpa’s Inn

A cheaper option that doesn’t sacrifice on rustic ambience is Grandpa’s Inn.

It is a Spanish ancestral home converted into a cozy hotel with rustic ambiance, great customer service and delicious food. And starting at PHP 650 for a double fan room (common T&B), it’s one of the best value in town!

  • Tel. +63 77 7222118

My Spiritual Journey to Simala

It was a cloudy afternoon of the 13th of December 2012 when my travel buddy and I, scheduled to set off to our Visayas backpacking adventure –a travel that will cover Southern Cebu, Negros Oriental (Dumaguete), Siquijor, Negros Occidental (Bacolod), and Iloilo.

Leaving Cebu City an hour past lunch, we headed to the Southern Cebu Bus Terminal and boarded a bus that will pass by Brgy. Simala, Sibonga, Cebu.

South Cebu Bus

I’ve always heard of stories of miracles  told about this particular church in Brgy. Simala. Aside from it’s striking castle like structure, local folks and the monks of Simala Church  claimed that they witnessed several miracles and one of the miracles that they witnessed several times is the crying of the statue of Virgin Mary.

Sibonga Mama Mary

By then hundreds of pilgrims travel to Sibonga and visit the Simala Church.   In the past decade the church was very small but because of non-stop flow of donation by  many pilgrims and by commercializing the Church, it’s structure changed to a very elegant and beautiful Church on the mountainous Sibonga.

The Castle-like Simala Church

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Being there is simply rejuvenating. We were even in luck for when we got there we’ve had a chance to attend the monthly regular mass. (*devotees come by truckloads to be there every 13th of the month to hear Mass at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. or during the weekends at 3 p.m.)

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Mass at Simala Church

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A blessing that I think God is showing me to chase my dream to travel, for there’s no other better way to start one’s adventure than being blessed and enlightened by His word.

Strolling Around the Miraculous Church

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How to go to Simala Church?

Getting there is you have to be in Cebu City then go to South Bus Terminal and ride a Ceres Bus going to Sibonga.  It’s easy to find the Church because the Bus driver will inform the passengers once you get there. It’s a 2 hour and a half hour ride from Cebu, by the time you reach the stop point for the Church you will take a  motorcycle ride to bring you to the Sanctuary.

Simala News Clip

Here’s a news clipping I’ve found in the internet that may help…

CEBU CITY, Philippines – No place is too far to visit for a miracle.

In south Cebu, thousands of Cebuanos and other visitors from far and wide, climb up a hill to the Mother Mary Shrine in Simala, Sibonga town, bringing their faith and petitions for cures and other divine aid.

Each year, the crowd of devotees and first-time pilgrims seems to grow bigger.

January 1 is marked in the Christian calendar worldwide as a solemnity in honor of Mary as the mother of God, a day of obligation for Catholics to attend Mass.

At the Mother Mary Shrine in upper Lindogon in Barangay (village) Simala, Sibonga town, 48 kilometers south of Cebu City, devotees come by truckloads to be there every 13th of the month to hear Mass at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. or during the weekends at 3 p.m.

The shrine became “famous” after word spread that the image of the Virgin Mary was seen “shedding tears of blood,” a phenomenon that lacks scientific or official church validation but nevertheless draws more people to the area.

Driving to Simala shrine by private car from Cebu City means two to three hours on the road, barring heavy traffic in the outlying towns. Public buses ply the south Cebu route but one would have to get off a corner of the national road to reach upper Lindogon and hail a motorcab or a habal-habal (motorcycle-for-hire) for P20 to take you to the shrine about four kilometers up the mountains.

At the site, one has to cross a foot bridge and walk up a concrete pathway to reach the church, an imposing concrete structure at the top of the mountain. It takes about 10 minutes to reach the peak, which offers a breathtaking view of green slopes and fresh air.

The Marian monks who maintain the shrine have also landscaped the area, which has a mini falls that cascades down a small pool and well-tended gardens.

Signboards warn people that picking the flowers would be like “stealing from Mother Mary”. Families can have picnics and meals in cottages built for visitors. Children like to throw coins in a wishing well which features a large bell. Carenderias outside the gates of the shrine are proof of the steady volume of visitors in Simala.

Those who grumble about the distance are quickly shamed by the sight of elderly men and women on wheelchairs and crutches who go there to hear Mass and line up to kiss the image of Mary. These senior citizens don veils on their heads while praying, the same one Mary wore when she “shed tears of blood.”

While the church exterior is imposing, the interior is clearly a work in progress. The floor doesn’t have tiles and the church is not completely roofed. The hall is filled with wooden pews that look up to an elevated makeshift altar, where the statue of Mary is visible. Scaffoldings around the makeshift altar show work still being done on the ceiling. The rest of the church has no ceiling yet, which makes it humid inside, eased only by the breeze that wafts inside the tall windows on each side of the church.

A major purpose of visitors and devotees who go to Simala is to offer their petitions. Blank sheets of paper and pens on which to write their intentions are prepared by the monks for one to drop in a box at the right side of the glass-encased Marian image. Thank you letters are dropped in a box to her left side.

Visitors in lone queues walk barefoot to the statue. Since the area is considered sacred ground, shoes and footwear have to be removed and modesty is part of the dress code. Wearing of shorts, body-hugging blouses or sleeveless shirts is not allowed. Visitors who come dressed in this attire are asked to cover up with sarongs or malongs, prepared by the monks at the entrance.

In front of the Marian image, one is given only a few minutes to either kiss or say a short prayer, so as not to hold up the line.

Two other lines lead to a display of veils similar to the one the Marian image was wearing on the day believers said the “Birhen sa Simala” “shed” tears of blood.

On one display, the veil is placed on a low altar, where one can kneel and place the veil on one’s head while praying. The other one is placed on another statue of Mary. To view this, devotees have to stand within the folds of the veil and hold on to the hands of Mary while praying.

The path leading to both veils is lined with wooden cabinets where written petitions and thank you letters from as far as the United States and other countries are posted. Most petitions ask for a divine cure for ailments of the seeker or a family member’s. Several petitions were made by students seeking to pass the Bar or board examinations. Others seek help in finding jobs abroad.

In another cabinet, thank you letters are laid out, full of gratitude to Mary for answered prayers. While waiting for the line to move, reading the letters is an engaging past time. One woman sent a package containing her nursing uniform, her offering of thanks to Mary for passing the nursing licensure examination.

Further on is a cabinet crammed with wheelchairs and crutches offered by those who were cured of their ailments. The sight is a moving, modern day wonder, echoing Bible stories about the sick and lame who were able to walk again or were freed from their maladies by Jesus Christ.

By Marsante G. Alison
Cebu Daily News

 

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