Lake Holon Outlet Adventure 2013: Trekking the Philippines’ Cleanest Lake

A lake is the landscape’s most beautiful and expressive feature.  It is earth’s eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature.

~Henry David Thoreau

A few days ago I’ve written about an invite to climb and see the Philippines’ Cleanest Lake (read more here), and now I’m back again with aching muscles and an unforgettable experience to chronicle about our 2 day journey to Lake Holon.

Registration and Orientation

The journey started with the usual registration of participants and a briefing and orientation from T’boli MENRO.

Adventure ID

Adventure ID

Lake Holon Orientation

Lake Holon Orientation

From there we proceeded to start our adventure – aboard the municipal dam truck, we’re on for one of the greatest ride of our lives!

Dam Truck Ride

Dump Truck Ride

So brace yourself and here we go! A ride that will surely make you move left, right, down, and avoiding plants and shrubs from hitting you!

Rough Roads

Dump Truck Ride

Start of the Trek

Travel Philippines

Lake Holon Climbers

lake holon invitational climb

At around 10am, the trek started with quite an easy trail, mostly uphill, passing by communities along the way.

lake holon climb

Not far you’ll also pass by a water source for you to refill some of your water containers.

Water Spring

Grow a Tree with Takladtamig

where to go in south cotabato

The Lake Holon experience was made even more memorable because of the unique mountaineering experience brought by Takladtamig’s tree planting activity.

Mountaineers

Grow a Tree

Takladtamig is founded by the group called the Friends of Holon and Melibingoy (FHM), a group of independent and solo mountaineers from South Cotabato, South Central Mindanao, Philippines, to organize Takladtamig and to give life to the intention of making Lake Holon and Mt. Melibingoy known as a prime trekking destination while promoting its conservation and reaching out to the communities.

Tree Planting

In every Takladtamig climb, the group aims to meet these three goals:

Takladtamig Grow a Tree

Takladtamig Grow a Tree

  • Grow a Tree
  • Lend a Hand
  • Be Amazed

Continuing with the Adventure

After the activity and some moments of rest, we’re off to continue the journey again.

Not far you’ll be amazed with this stunning overlooking view of the river below while standing on a cliff.

Parker River

Scary for those with fear of heights, but a rewarding experience for adventurers alike.

Mt Parker Overview

The Treacherous Trail in Muddy Grounds

After another trek pause and a light quick lunch, we’re off to continue our path. This time the trail become more challenging – steeper enabling you to at times to lie, crawl and hold tight for you not to slip.

Rainfall

And to make the adventure even more treacherous, the rain poured its hardest,  but the trek must continue coz it’s also starting to get dark.

Rain on Lake

The Rainbow after the Rain : Arrival at Lake Holon

But as they say, there’s always a rainbow after the rain. This time though there were no literal rainbows, but the majestic view of Lake Holon that awaits you upon arrival is surely a reward worth all the hard work.

tboli lake holon

Silen Water

Morning View of Lake Holon

The scenic view was even made more pronounced when the sun came rising the following day.

lake south cotabato

Sparkling clean water (that you could even drink just make sure you’ll get it near the mid part of the lake), luscious green, and a cool and humid atmosphere – indeed a perfect getaway to calm one’s soul and mind after a week long of work.

Boat

Refresh

South Cotabato Boating

Outlet of Holon

DSC_0639

Moss

South Cotabato Adventure

Lake Holon Outlet

Lake Holon Outlet

Friends of Holon

Friends of Holon

Lake Holon

I’m sure you could see from the photos the peacefulness they exude. If only it would be easier to get back here, I surely would every once in a while. Maybe someday if they devised a zipline from the ground up here. Hahaha!

Lake Holon Flora and Fauna

Apart from the majestic lake, you’ll also see these various flora and fauna native here in Lake Holon.

Lake Holon Flower

Lake Holon Centipede - You'll see a lot of creatures like this in the area!

Lake Holon Centipede – You’ll see a lot of creatures like this in the area!

Philippine Flower

Wild berries

Wild berries

Flora

Worm

The Trek Home

The whole trail runs for a total of 7 kilometers.

And on the way home, we thought we’d all be dry but the weather prove us otherwise again.

Gloomy

Travel South Cotabato

Lucky this time we’re with our rain coats!

Celebrating the Mountaineer’s Night

And to end the adventure, a mountaineer’s night awaits.

Adventuroj Brand

Here climbers from around South Cotabato got to know each other more, with a message from Sir Doms, certificate giving, lovely tshirts, and of course the most awaited foooooddd (that really goes appreciated when you’ve been from the mountains). Haha!

Lake Holon Outlet Adventure 2013 Participants

Lake Holon Outlet Adventure 2013 Participants

Until next time Lake Holon! Thanks for another adventure!

Why Flying is More Fun in the Philippines: The Hot Air Balloon Festival 2013 Adventure

The heat is on once again as the 18th Clark Philippines Hot Air Balloon Fiesta kicks off this year – and for sure Adventuroj wouldn’t miss this one. Not just that, a couple of friends also went along with me this time!

So here’s a round up of photo taking under the scorching heat of the sun that happened during the day of everything that flies.

Hot Air Balloon flight

The show started early with the morning hot air balloon flight that many long to want in sight.

Hot Air Balloon flight (7)

Hot Air Balloon flight (8)

Hot Air Balloon flight (6)

Hot Air Balloon flight (5)

Hot Air Balloon flight (4)

Hot Air Balloon flight (3)

Hot Air Balloon flight (2)

Trivia: You may wonder why Hot Air Balloons fly only early in the morning or late in the afternoon?

A: Despite the intimidating size, balloons are very gentle aircraft, indeed they are sometimes referred to as Gentle Giants. Balloons need cool stable calm winds to operate effectively and the hours following sunrise are the most suitable before the heat of the day. As hot air balloons are the only form of flight which moves with the wind, the weather is most important.

Hot Air Balloon flight (1)

Hot Air Balloon flight (14)

Hot Air Balloon flight (13)

Hot Air Balloon flight (12)

Hot Air Balloon flight (11)

Hot Air Balloon flight (10)

Hot Air Balloon flight (9)

Aerobatic Shows

Fantastic flying skills came up next as aerobatic shows were shown.

Aerobatic Show 4

Aerobatic Show (3)

Aerobatic Show (2)

Aerobatic Show (1)

Breitling Jet Team Aerobatic Exhibition

One of the biggest highlights this year is the performance of the Breitling Jet Team, the largest civilian aerobatic display team in Europe. Based in Dijon, France, they fly seven Aero L-39 Albatros jets.

Breitling Aerobatic Exhibition (8)

Breitling Aerobatic Exhibition (7)

Breitling Aerobatic Exhibition (6)

Breitling Aerobatic Exhibition (5)

The Breitling Jet Team flies an aerial display lasting 18–20 minutes that includes close formation flying, opposition passes, solo routines and synchronized maneuvers. The team flies displays across Europe and the Middle East and each year undertakes a busy schedule of engagements, including major international air shows and Breitling corporate events – just how lucky we are for them to perform for us here! Breitling Aerobatic Exhibition (4)

Breitling Aerobatic Exhibition (3)

Breitling Aerobatic Exhibition (2)

Breitling Aerobatic Exhibition (1)

Kite Flying Exhibition

The skies were once again filled with these colorful flying little wonders.

Kite Flying Exhibition (7)

Kite Flying Exhibition (6)

Kite Flying Exhibition (5)

Kite Flying Exhibition (4)

Kite Flying Exhibition (3)

Kite Flying Exhibition (2)

Kite Flying Exhibition (1)

Love Story in the Scene

And in the middle of all these things – we were lucky enough to witness a love story of these two love birds, who let themselves burned under the heat of the sun particularly unaware of their surroundings, so deeply engrossed in attention with each other alone.

If only I was able to caught in camera the almost 3 hours of gazing, fighting, apologizing, and making up again – and simply being inlove of these two – you surely will believe that true love still do exist.

Love Story

And so the day continued with more flying stunts, photo ops and plane spotting.

Plane Spotting

Plane Spotting (6)

Plane Spotting (5)

Plane Spotting (4)

Plane Spotting (3)

Plane Spotting (2)

Plane Spotting (1)

Ultralight Flying

Ultralight Flight (4)

Ultralight Flight (3)

Ultralight Flight (2)

Ultralight Flight (1)

Skydiving and Tandem jumping Exhibition

Sky diving exhibition (5)

Sky diving exhibition (4)

Sky diving exhibition (1)

Sky diving exhibition (2)

Sky diving exhibition (3)

Night Glow

Night Glow (2)

Night Glow (1)

Flying Friendships and More Photo Ops

Fellow Pinoy Travel Bloggers meet up with Mai from Budget Biyahera and Yaj the RJ d Explorer.

Flying Friendships (1)

More photo opportunities with the gang that made it all happened – my travel buddies!

Flying Friendships (3)

Flying Friendships (4)

Hot Air Balloon flight (14)

Flying Friendships (5)

Flying Friendships (6)

Until next year again Philipppine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta!

Quotations & Photography: A Bike Ride Into The Sunrise

Early mornings are best for leisure walks and of course – bike rides!

Travel with me down the aisle of photography quotations as I journey into the sunrise – after an early morning bicycle ride, made to calm the soul and unrest the feet – a hobby that I’ve been lately addicted.

bike ride

quote image

sunrise photo

bike in

mt matutum

bike quotes

Taming the Sweet Tooth!

After a leisurely bike ride, we stopped by the popular fruit stands in Brgy. Kablon, Tupi, South Cotabato for an early morning treat!

Lover of the Corn? There's nothing surely more sweeter than this...

Lover of the Corn? There’s nothing surely more sweeter than this…

Endless Rows of Abundant Fruits, only in Brgy. Kablon, Tupi, South Cotabato

Endless Rows of Abundant Fruits, only in Brgy. Kablon, Tupi, South Cotabato

Do you have a sweet tooth? Why not give this pineapples a try!

Do you have a sweet tooth? Why not give this pineapples a try!

To end this, I’d like to share some of more quotes to inspire your day today. Have a lovely one!

photo of sunrise

sunrise picture

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?

+++

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.

+++

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!

+++

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

Wow! Hinugyaw! A Once in a Lifetime Nighttime Street Dancing Experience!

January is indeed a month of festivals ; from the popular Sinulog in Cebu to the Ati-atihan in Kalibo and Dinagyang in Iloilo. But wait, I’m sure Mindanao wouldn’t let this month passed by without having something, particularly my province here in South Cotabato!

And so I present to you THE HINUGYAW FESTIVAL 2013!

Start this year with a bang as Koronadal City celebrates the 13th Hinugyaw Festival.

The said festival started last January 4 and culminates on the evening of January 10, 2013, highlighting the Piyesta Korona (Korona Festival), a unique blend of mardi gras, creative korona attire and float competitions and of course the most awaited nighttime Street Dancing Competition!

Yes! You heard that right, NIGHT Street Dancing that is! Contrary to the common street dancing held during the daytime, Hinugyaw trots the road less traveled ; and that’s what makes this festival even more interesting!

Streets once again will be flooded with curious spectators dying to witness participants in their colorful ethnic attires as they dance to the beat of lively cultural music.

So without further adieu, here are some shots I’ve took during the colorful festivity ;  a mixture of the Street Dancing Competition, a parade of beauties in their creative crowns and attires, and the the Float Parade.

Have a Feast!

Street Dancing Competition

Participant No. 1

Adventuroj Hinugyaw Festival Photos (1)

Adventuroj Hinugyaw Festival Photos (2)

Adventuroj Hinugyaw Festival Photos (3)

Adventuroj Hinugyaw Festival Photos (4)

Adventuroj Hinugyaw Festival Photos (5)

Participant No. 2

DSC_0781

Page1

DSC_0758

Participant No. 3

Hinugyaw Festival 2013 Photos adventuroj (2)

Hinugyaw Festival 2013 Photos adventuroj (4)

Hinugyaw Festival 2013 Photos adventuroj (3)

Hinugyaw Festival 2013 Photos adventuroj (5)

Hinugyaw Festival 2013 Photos adventuroj (6)

Hinugyaw Festival 2013 Photos adventuroj (1)

Participant No. 4

Hinugyaw 2013 Photos adventuroj (1)

Hinugyaw 2013 Photos adventuroj (2)

Hinugyaw 2013 Photos adventuroj (3)

Hinugyaw 2013 Photos adventuroj (4)

Hinugyaw 2013 Photos adventuroj (5)

Hinugyaw 2013 Photos adventuroj (6)

Hinugyaw 2013 Photos adventuroj (7)

Hinugyaw 2013 Photos adventuroj (8)

Hinugyaw 2013 Photos adventuroj (9)

Participant No. 5

Street Dancing Photos adventuroj (1)

Street Dancing Photos adventuroj (2)

Street Dancing Photos adventuroj (3)

Street Dancing Photos adventuroj (4)

Street Dancing Photos adventuroj (5)

Participant No. 6

hinugyaw festival photos (1)

hinugyaw festival photos (2)

hinugyaw festival photos (3)

hinugyaw festival photos (4)

hinugyaw festival photos (5)

hinugyaw festival photos (6)

And in this group I also spotted a very cute kid who got my camera glued on him.. so pardon if his smiles and gorgeousness took a lot of space in the following photos. I’m sure you’ll also agree with me after seeing these –

hinugyaw festival photos (7)

hinugyaw festival photos (8)

hinugyaw festival photos (9)

hinugyaw festival photos (10)

hinugyaw festival photos (11)

hinugyaw festival photos (12)

hinugyaw festival photos (13)

hinugyaw festival photos (14)

hinugyaw festival photos (15)

Korona Creative Attire Competition

Adventuroj Corona Hinugyaw 2013 (2)

Adventuroj Corona Hinugyaw 2013 (1.5)

Adventuroj Corona Hinugyaw 2013 (2.5)

Adventuroj Corona Hinugyaw 2013 (3)

Adventuroj Corona Hinugyaw 2013 (3.5)

Adventuroj Corona Hinugyaw 2013 (4)

Adventuroj Corona Hinugyaw 2013 (5)

Adventuroj Corona Hinugyaw 2013 (01) Adventuroj Corona Hinugyaw 2013 (1)

Float Competition

Hinugyaw 2013 float parade photos (1)

Hinugyaw 2013 float parade photos (2)

Hinugyaw 2013 float parade photos (3)

Hinugyaw 2013 float parade photos (4)

Hinugyaw festival is a week long celebration of the Foundation Anniversary of Koronadal City, the center of the Province of South Cotabato happening usually on the first week of January every year. It is a colorful merry-making depicting the evolution of the distinct cultures of B’laans, Maguindanao, and Christians into a singular wave of rhythm as a tribute to the creator, and in celebration of the spirit that Koronadal is known for dynamic and persistent in its bound for sustainable development.

So next time you’re heading South Mindanao, don’t forget to drop by and join in the merriment! Until next year Hinugyaw!

Paoay Tour: Paoay Church, Malacanang of the North and the Paoay Lake

Paoay Lake

After dusting myself up from the Sand Boarding Adventure, it is now time to head to our next destination – Paoay!

Our original plan was to rent a trike from the city (Laoag) going to Paoay. However we’ve found the trike drivers too overpriced! Imagine 600php? When you could just take a public jeepney going to Paoay for only 34pesos?!

Don’t ask me what I took! Haha.

Jeepney going to Paoay

Jeepney going to Paoay

And so after around 30minutes, we’ve reached our first stop on the list, the Paoay Church.

Paoay Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Paoay Church

Paoay Church

The St. Augustine Church or popularly known as Paoay Church is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. It’s construction started in 1694 by the Agustinian Friars, completed 1894 and was re-dedicated in the same year. It is made of coral blocks and brick that incorporates Gothic, Baroque and Oriental designs that add up to its striking appeal.

Built to withstand earthquakes common in our country, it is probably the best-known “earthquake baroque” church in the Philippines. In fact, one of its key features are the 24 carved buttresses that support the church’s structure during earthquakes.

Paoay Church

Paoay Church

Paoay Church

Paoay Church

Paoay Bell Tower

Paoay Bell Tower

Paoay Bell Tower

Unlike other bell towers in most churches around the country, the Paoay Church’s stunning bell tower is detached from the church. This is to avoid the tower from smashing on the structure when an earthquake occurs.

After the Paoay Church, we headed to the residence of the Marcoses and the Lake Paoay. This time we’ve rented a tricycle for 170php since there are no or few public transpo that goes in there.

Paoay Lake

Paoay Lake

Paoay Lake

Paoay Lake

Paoay Lake

Malacañang of the North

Malacañang of the North is located in Barrio Suba, Paoay, Ilocos Norte and it’s open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. A minimal fee of 30 pesos is collected for those who want to visit the place.

Malacañang of the North

Malacañang of the North

Built as the official residence of then President Ferdinand Marcos in Ilocos Norte, it is an imposing structure that resembles a 19th Century “bahay na bato” with an overlooking view of the legendary Paoay Lake. This once a seat of power is now converted into a museum that houses several memorabilia of the former President and his family.

Malacañang of the North

Malacañang of the North

Malacañang of the North

Malacañang of the North

TRIVIA: The Malacanang of the North is actually a “birthday gift” of then First Lady Imelda Marcos to her husband on his 60th birthday.

Ilocos Food Treats

By lunch time, we’ve headed to Batac and there took our lunch, delighting ourselves with various Ilocano dishes – pinakbet, etc. as well as their specialty empanada.

Ilocos Food Treats

Ilocos Food Treats

The above blog post is part of my Ilokandia Ultimate Adventure – Laoag – Pagudpud – Vigan tour series of posts in the Ilocos Region, Philippines that happened last November 28 – December 2, 2012. | Ilocos Adventure: Laoag Vigan Pagudpud Budget Itinerary | Laoag City Walking Tour: Places, Food, and Fun Treats | Ilocandia Sand Boarding and 4×4 Ride in La Paz Sand Dunes | Paoay Tour: Paoay Church, Malacanang of the North and the Paoay Lake

Reliving the Legends: Air Supply Live in Davao 2012

Finally! No words could explain how happy I am to witness the duo that made my heart sing and serenaded my childhood years performed live in front of me.

Yes, it’s Air Supply Live in Davao City. Indeed a once in a lifetime chance to see & hear them live! Surely not an opportunity I’ll simply pass on.

It’s been 4 years since the last time the duo singers performed here in the City. And now they’re back.

Air Supply is an Australian soft rock duo, consisting of Graham Russell as guitarist and singer-songwriter and Russell Hitchcock as lead vocalist. They had a succession of hits worldwide, including eight Top Ten hits in the United States, in the early 1980s. They formed in Mebourne,Australia in 1975 and have included various accompanying musicians and singers.

With their heavily orchestrated, sweet ballads, the Australian soft rock group Air Supply became a staple of early-’80s radio, scoring a string of seven straight Top Five singles. Air Supply, for most intents and purposes, was the duo of vocalists Russell Hitchcock and Graham Russell; other members came through the group over the years, yet they only functioned as backing musicians and added little to the group’s sound. Hitchcock and Russell met while performing in a Sydney, Australia, production of Jesus Christ Superstar in 1976. The two singers formed a partnership and with the addition of four supporting musicians – keyboardist Frank Esler-Smith, guitarist David Moyse, bassist David Green, and drummer Ralph Cooper – Air Supply was born.

Below are some of my snapshots taken during the memorable night, held last November 20, 2012 at USEP Gym, Obrero, Davao City.

Until we meet again Air Supply!

Palawan Underground River Tour (PPUR Tour)

Day 2 itinerary – yes! the ever most awaited highlight of going to Palawan (they say you haven’t been to Palawan if you haven’t seen the underground River).

Since the declaration of Palawan Underground River as one of the 7 Wonders of the World, tourist (both locals and foreign) have been pouring to visit the historic site.

How to Book Underground River Tour?

And if there’s one ‘tour’ that I’d like to recommend you to avail (yes even you budget packers like me) is this.

Trust me, I learned this the hard way. Last time me and my buddy went to Palawan we didn’t got the chance to see the UR since the permit slots are fully booked.

You see the Palawan Department of Tourism provides these permits, you need to obtain them from the city prior to going to Sabang (where the UR is located). Permit registration is a very very veeeerrrry looooong process if you’re a walk in. I’ve tried this before. People shouting, long lines, favoritism, the usual you see in a Philippine government system scene. You don’t wanna go through this.

And so the ‘tour’ agencies are born. They make life a whole lot easier. All you have to do is text them (yes, no need to go to the tourism office, even at the comfort of your own homes you could already book a permit). Just send them your complete name (be very careful not to misspell it or you’ll never be going to see the Underground River), with your birthday, and poof! You’re already booked, Magic eh?!

Well I guess that’s just how the system works in the Philippines!

Anyway, to make the long story short. We did avail this, and at around 7am we were picked up by the van that took us to Sabang. From there, our tour guide took care of all the queuing and long lines, we just have to wait until it’s our time.

And I would like to commend our guide, Peter (St Peter as we called him. haha) from Top Star Travel Agency, he made it a breeeze! Nauna pa kami kesa dun sa mga nauna pang dumating sa amin!

I know if’s unfair, but well you know if you’re the one traded more fairly it just becomes fair. haha.

So here are some pics of our tour.

Buffet After the Tour

After the unwinding journey inside the cave, we took our buffet lunch courtesy of the tour agency.

And yes I don’t wanna miss visiting Palawan without having a taste of one of their delicacies, another exotic food – the TAMILOK!

Tamilok at Palawan

Taken from the inside of the trees, these ‘tree’ eating semi wormlike squishy creatures from the family of sea urchins, shells, and clams, is a delicious treat found in this province, even featured in Fear Factor, Usually paired with a vinegar, Tamilok are best eaten raw. Yummy! *It has just a little after taste. But I recommend you adventurers to try it! One serving in a bowl cost 100php. They say capturing and finding these ‘tamilok’ is a difficult process, hence its expensiveness.

Palawan Underground River Tips and Tricks

Tip: If you wanna hold the light going inside the cave, stay in FRONT of the boat. You just have to be a good listener and must know what ‘LEFT’ and ‘RIGHT’ means, since the guide will be asking you to point the light from his directions.

And if you wanna hear a detail and closer tour explanation, stay at the back portion of the boat near the guide. Recommended to those who have hearing difficulties.

Underground River Tour Travel Agency

  • Top Star Travel Agency: 09088995002
  • Cost: 1,500php per person with free buffet lunch, travel, etc.

And an AdventuRoj shirt to end the day!

The above blog post is part of my Family Trip to Palawan Adventure series of posts that happened last October 25-28, 2012.  To read more the rest of the series, click on the following links: Palawan Family Trip: Arrival and City Tour | Palawan Underground River Tour (PPUR Tour)  | Palawan Honda Bay Family Trip

Palawan Family Trip: Arrival and City Tour

It’s my mom’s birthday! And yes another reason for Adventuroj to celebrate!

And to share my adventurous feet to my family, I planned to take them to Palawan (since the last for my dad was at Boracay). And since I’ve been already here before, I’ll be their tour guide. But for convenience sake (it’s always a priority when you’re with mine believe me. haha!) I’ve just booked a tour package.

First day itinerary:

  • Arrival at Palawan – 10am

  • Travel to Jamp Pension House with free transfer (sundo)

  • Preparation for the City Tour ++ Freshen up
  • Lunch at DAMPA Seafood Restaurant

  • City Tour (free pick up by Travelwise Tour Agency) – 1pm

Palawan City Tour

The city tour included a visit to the following places:

  • Running tour at Palawan Baywalk (best visited at night time to unwind as the place is located near the beach)
  • Puerto Princesa City Cathedral
  • Plaza Cuartel
  • Pasalubong Center
  • Irawan Crocodile Park
  • Mitra’s Ranch
  • Baker’s Hill (with free merienda from the tour package)

How Much is Palawan City Tour?

  • Regular tour packages cost 600php (transportation is via van)

Palawan City Tour Contact

  • Travel wise Tour Agency – 09284204271

Budget Palawan City Tour

  • However if you’re on a tight budget, like me when I’m travelling alone or I’m in on my adventures, you could rent a tricycle (which could fit up to 4 persons) for only 300php.
  • Way off better since you could control your time, no need to rush unlike when you’re with a tour group as you ‘own’ the tricycle. haha
  • Or if you really are on a tightest tight budget – then you may follow this.
Take a multicab going to Sta Monica, tell driver to stop at the Butterfly Garden 20
After visiting Butterfly garden, take another trike to let you bring to Baker’s Hill (2km) 15
Take another tricke or have a walk to Mitra’s Ranch (1km) 15
Try to have a walk back again to Baker’s hill or take a trike, tell the driver to bring you to Nat’l Highway and there wait until another Multicab going to Irawan, and tell the driver to stop at the Crocodile Farm. 7
Stop over to Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm
At night Firefly Watching @Iwahig River, PPS City
Ride Multicab back to City
OR
Rode “Bayan – City Hall” jeep to City Hall (P7) 7
Puerto Princesa City Hall
Puerto Princesa Sports Complex
Rode “Irawan Jeep” to intersection going to Baker’s Mill / Mitra’s Ranch
Rode Tricycle to Mitra’s Ranch (P15) 15
Walked to Baker’s Hill. BUY HOPIA. 43/BOX
Rode Tricycle back to highway intersection (P15) 15
Rode “Irawan” jeep to Rizal Ave (P7) 7

Stay tuned for the remaining Palawan adventure!

The above blog post is part of my Family Trip to Palawan Adventure series of posts that happened last October 25-28, 2012.  To read more the rest of the series, click on the following links: Palawan Family Trip: Arrival and City Tour | Palawan Underground River Tour (PPUR Tour)  | Palawan Honda Bay Family Trip

Day 4: Quickie in Cebu

For our last day of the tour, since we’ll be departing Cebu to Davao and our flight’s still scheduled for 12nn, we decided to have a quickie in Cebu first.

It’s not the quickie that you’re thinking Smile hehe

We headed to Sto Nino Basilica and attended the Sunday mass, then proceeded to the historic Magellan’s Cross which is just a few steps from the church.

Below are the snapshots that took place. Enjoy!

Cebu City Tour

I bet you didn’t know there’s a Feb 30, 2013?! Well that’s what the Peanut Roll from Bohol told me! Haha

I’ll be posting the budget for the whole trip up next. You’ll be amazed how we’ve manage to have everything below 3k!

The above blog post is part of my budget Bohol – Cebu tour series of posts in the Island of Panglao, Bohol and Cebu City, Philippines that happened last September 13-16, 2012. | Cebu – Bohol for just 3k Barkada Trip! | Day 2 Panglao Island HoppingDay 3 Bohol City Tour | Day 4: Quickie in Cebu