December 12, 2012

Historical Adventure at Faro de Cabo Bojeador

Another pit stop in the Pagudpud Tour is the historical Light House of Cape Bojeador in Burgos.

Cape Bojeador Adventure

The Light House was built in 1892 by the Spaniards to guide sea farers that time. It’s also known as Faro de Cabo Bojeador, and perhaps one of the oldest in the country.

Standing Strong Against Time

One could also enjoy the beautiful view of the South China Sea from the historical construction.

Overlooking the South China Sea

Walking through it is mysterious enough. Just imagine going in it alone late in the afternoon with the light bading goodbye and the darkness welcoming.

Cape Bojeador Wall

SpoOoooooky.. hehe

Good thing that we have the sun shining brightly upon our visit here.

How to go to Cape Bojeador?

Adventuroj at Cape Bojeador

The visit to the Cape Bojeador is part of our Pagudpud Tricycle Tour with Kuya Rene

South and North Pagudpud Tour (Tricycle)
Rate: 1,000 pesos per tour
Contact Details: 09208532047 look for Kuya Rene

Pagudpud Budget Tour Details

Here is the list of the activities you can do to appreciate Pagudpud.

Swim and surf in the breathtaking Saud Beach
Thirty minutes trek to majestic Kabigan Falls
Stopover at Patapat Viaduct with blue skies and blue sea waters as backdraft
See Bantay Abot cave, where waves hit the cliffs
Drop by Agua Paraiso, where waves hit the rocks
Enjoy huge wave and white sand in pristine Blue Lagoon(Maira-ira beach)
Witness Pagudpud sunset
Visit Bangui Wind Mills, Bojeador (Burgos) Lighthouse, Curimao, Laoag, Paoay and Vigan

Here’s our ‘trike’ tour guide s’trike’ing a pose. ^^,

Pagudpud Trike Tour – Kuya Rene

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 | Bangui Windmills: The Answer is Blowing in the Wind

Posted in Ilocos Norte, Pagudpud, Travel
Tagged Cape Bojeador, Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, Cape Bojeador Pagudpud, how to go to Cape Bojeador, Pagudpud Cape Bojeador, where is Cape Bojeador
2 Comments

December 11, 2012

Bangui Windmills: The Answer is Blowing in the Wind

The Bangui Windmills are located in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. The windmills, officially referred to as the NorthWind Bangui Bay Project, were a project by the NorthWind Development Corporation as a practice renewable energy sources and to help reduce the greenhouse gases that cause global warming. The project is the first “Wind Farm” in the Philippines consisting of wind turbines on-shore facing the South China Sea and considered to be the BIGGEST IN SOUTHEAST ASIA!

Bangui Windmills, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

Amazing isn’t it?

A Taste of Freedom!

It sells 40% electricity to Ilocos Norte and is contributing to reduce the greenhouse effect which causes global warming. Can you imagine how simple life is in Ilocos Norte? Fifty percent energy consumption of SM Megamall is the whole energy consumption in Ilocos Norte.

Looking in Amazement at the Beautiful Eco Friendly Bangui WIndmills

Each windmill has 236 meters apart on shore. These beautiful structures has 41 meters blade and the its height is roughly equivalent to a 23-storey building.

The Answer is Blowing in the Wind

Seeing these 20 beautiful windmills in Bangui, Ilocos Norte is one of my most awaited highlight of our Pagudpud adventure. We can’t explain the feeling when we first saw these windmills. Truly, the answer to our energy problem is Blowing in the Wind…

The Pasalubong Center at Bangui Windmills

Souvenir Shops at Bangui Windmills

How to go to Bangui Windmills?

The visit to the Bangui Windmill is part of our Pagudpud Tricycle Tour with Kuya Rene (

South and North Pagudpud Tour (Tricycle)
Rate: 1,000 pesos per tour
Contact Details: 09208532047 look for Kuya Rene

Pagudpud Budget Tour Details

Here is the list of the activities you can do to appreciate Pagudpud.

Swim and surf in the breathtaking Saud Beach
Thirty minutes trek to majestic Kabigan Falls
Stopover at Patapat Viaduct with blue skies and blue sea waters as backdraft
See Bantay Abot cave, where waves hit the cliffs
Drop by Agua Paraiso, where waves hit the rocks
Enjoy huge wave and white sand in pristine Blue Lagoon(Maira-ira beach)
Witness Pagudpud sunset
Visit Bangui Wind Mills, Bojeador (Burgos) Lighthouse, Curimao, Laoag, Paoay and Vigan

Posted in Ilocos Norte, Pagudpud, Travel
Tagged Bangui Windmills, Bangui Windmills ilocos, go to Bangui Windmills, How to go to Bangui Windmills, ilocos windmills, Pagudpud Budget Tour, Pagudpud Tour, where is Bangui Windmills, windmills, windmills philippines
5 Comments

December 1, 2012

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

Posted in Eat, Ilocos Norte, Laoag, Shoot, Travel
Tagged how to go to paoay, Ilocos Food, Ilocos Food Treats, Malacañang of the North, Paoay Bell Tower, paoay church, paoay ilocos, Paoay Lake
4 Comments

December 1, 2012

Ilocandia Sand Boarding and 4×4 Ride in La Paz Sand Dunes

No better way to start our first day in Ilocos than a view of the sunrise in the spectacular Sand Dunes of La Paz.

We even saw the moon still up at this early hour. Amazing huh?

Moon Set and Sun Rise

Sunrise in the spectacular Sand Dunes of La Paz + Moonset.

Our tour guide and pioneer sand boarder (*I’ll tell you about it later), fetch us up at 6am. We reached the Sand Dunes in less than 15 minutes and there switched our jeep to a 4×4 Rough Rugged Ride. This is where the fun begins.

4×4 Ride in La Paz

The ride was one heck of an adventure. We hop on the back of this 4×4 truck.

Hold on tight and you’re in for the ride of your life across ups and downs, lefts and rights of the vast sand dunes. If only I’ve caught what happened in video so I could show you why Roller Coasters are More Fun in the Philippines! haha

Stunning Early Morning Portraits

Bonus to the ride are mini stop overs where the views are stunning. An overlooking of the entire city in early morning fog and dew, with hawks flying in the distance (yes they’re a native here). And a spectacular picture of the South China Sea. Photo buffs like me would surely take delight in this!

Sand Boarding Experience

And for the highlight of the adventure, the sand boarding!

Time to buckle up and practice those balancing acts! Works pretty much similar than surf boarding, just imagine the water turned sand this time. And instead of plunging into the ocean, see yourself rolling (sometimes even head first like I did) into the dunes.

Did you drank enough water at the beach during surfing? Well here you’ll be eating sands literally. Haha.

“Get up each time you fall.”
Just like a lesson in real life, my sand boarding experience didn’t come easy. I had to go through several failures and falls before reaching that perfect stunt – just like the cup of success that we all aim in life amidst the trials we face

But need not worry, the dunes will not hurt you that bad (I didn’t said it doesn’t hurt at all!), they’re soft anyway and the triumphant feeling of perfecting the sand boarding stunt afterwards is rewarding enough!

Sand Boarding Contact

Rate: 2,500 pesos per group of four
Contact Details: 09088853669 look for Glenn Guererro
Notes: Package is for 1-hour sand boarding lessons, good for four persons. It also includes the 4×4 jeepney transportation to and from the sand dunes. Make an arrangement if you will be doing it solo.

Sand Boarding Contact

Trivia: Did you know that Sir Glenn (the contact above) is the pioneer of Sand boarding here in Ilocos? It started as a hobby that he later shared to others, particularly tourists. He got the idea from Dubai, saw it on TV, and brought it here in the Philippines. Today it is one of the must dos when you’re in Ilocos.

And to end it all a souvenir to let the world know that I survived Sand Boarding! Are you in for the challenge?

Sand Boarding Souvenir

Yep! I’ve long been wanting to have something like this. Perfect for my travel adventures! Hope you could let me know if you knew someone makes this in an affordable cost *wink

Posted in Ilocos Norte, Laoag, Travel
Tagged ilocos sand dunes, la paz sand dunes, la paz sand dunes ilocos, laoag sand dunes, sand dunes, sand dunes ilocos, sand dunes ilocos norte, sand dunes laoag, sand dunes philippines
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December 1, 2012

Laoag City Walking Tour: Places, Food, and Fun Treats

Getting out of Laoag Airport

The Province of Ilocos, particularly Laoag City has no better way of welcoming tourists than providing a free shuttle from the airport.

Yes! A free shuttle in getting out of Laoag Airport direct to the city, door to door delivery to your preferred accommodation!

Free shuttle in getting out of Laoag Airport

No more overpriced tricycles, pedicabs, motorcycles, etc.

First agenda for tonight is to deposit our luggage to our budget hotel – Texicano.

Where to Stay Cheap in Laoag?

Texicano Hotel, Laoag City
Address: J. P. Rizal Street, Laoag Ilocos Norte
Room Rate: Starts at 310 pesos for a single fan room
Contact Details: (6377) 7705776

Affordable Accommodation in Laoag – Texicano Hotel

After leaving our baggage behind, we’ve decided to head out for a night time view of the city.

What I like most about Texicano apart from the affordable rates, friendly staff, is it is well located in the heart of the city.

Few blocks not too far away we’ve taken a walk and found ourselves at the city tourist spots.

The following images are taken from various times of the day, during day and night time.

Start your walking tour in the Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol. Near it you could also find the Museo de Ilocos.

Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol

Ilocos Norte Capitol during the Night

Aurora Park

Located in front of the Capitol building, the Aurora Park is where the statue of the maiden Pamulinawen – where the Tobacco Monopoly Monument was erected in 1882 – left of the park is the Laoag City Hall.

St. William’s Cathedral

Walking towards the street on the right side of the park will bring you to the St. William’s Cathedral – Built in 1612 by the Augustinian friars, it is well known for its Italian Renaissance architecture.

St. William’s Cathedral & Sinking Bell Tower

Sinking Bell Tower of Laoag City

A few meters away from the cathedral, it is considered as one of the tallest bell towers in the Philippines at 45 meters high – Sinking Bell Tower of Laoag City – It is said to be sinking because the tower is so heavy and was built on a sandy ground which makes it sink considerably unto the ground at a rate of 1-inch every year.

Stories mention that a person on horseback could enter the tower with ease back when it was built. Now, a person of normal height has to bend down just to enter the vaulted entrance.

City Fun Treats

Not far from the Aurora Park lies a night market. Probably it’s Christmas Season that’s why it’s here. We did not hesitate to wander through it, even found ourselves eating street foods, particularly their sumptuous empanada.

If in Davao you’ll find Kwek-kwek as their main staple street food, here they have their empanada.

Ilocos Empanada

Kalesa in Ilocos

And to complete a city tour in Laoag, you shouldn’t miss riding their calesa. Fare is only 11php, just the same with the trikes, and lesser gas = healthier environment!

Kalesa in Ilocos

So what are you waiting for? Hop on!

November 27, 2012

Ilocos Adventure: Laoag Vigan Pagudpud Budget Itinerary

Know your limits, but never stop trying to exceed them.

After resting for almost a month, these itchy feet will now be on the go again. This time Adventuroj will be heading way up north. Guess where?

Clue: Have you watched the kilig movie of Erich Gonzales & Mario Maurer Suddenly It’s Magic?

Yep! That’s where we’ll be heading. Not in Bangkok (but I’ll be there soon as well. hehe) but this time it will be in Ilocos!

My chance to trace back my roots and see where my ancestors came from. Yes, I’m an ilocana by blood. *I just wished I knew how to speak the language fluently.

So enough with my ratting, here’s a pre planned budget friendly itinerary of the Laoag Vigan Pagudpud tour catered to fit backpackers like me. Feel free to use it and share the adventure with me!

The Ultimate Ilocandia Adventure Itinerary!

Day & Time	Activity	Est. Expenses
Wed Nov 28
2:30pm	Dvo-MNL	200
7pm	MNL-Laoag	200
	Get out of Laoag Airport to the City proper – There is a jeepney that brings passengers from the airport terminal to the city proper, Fare is 60 pesos.	60
	Texicano Hotel, Laoag City Address: J. P. Rizal Street, Laoag Ilocos Norte Room Rate: Starts at 310 pesos for a single fan room Contact Details: (6377) 7705776 Notes: Do not expect too much as this is a budget hotel	300
Thurs Nov 29
6am	Sand Boarding and 4×4 Ride in La Paz Sand Dunes	1000
	Rate: 2,500 pesos per group of four Contact Details: 09088853669 look for Glenn Guererro Notes: Package is for 1-hour sand boarding lessons, good for four persons. It also includes the 4×4 jeepney transportation to and from the sand dunes. Make an arrangement if you will be doing it solo.
	How to get to Paoay from Laoag – rent a tricycle for 250 pesos at Loaog City proper. It is more economical since some destinations in Paoay is not on the national road
	Rent a tricycle in the city proper for 250 pesos, going to and from Paoay to visit the Church and Malacañang of the North, which are both located in the town of Paoay. Travel time is around 30 minutes.	130
	Another alternative is to take a Batac-Paoay jeepney. Fare is around 30 pesos.
	Arrive at Paoay Church
8am	Paoay Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
	The St. Augustine Church or popularly known as Paoay Church is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines.
10am	Malacañang of the North and Paoay Lake
	Entrance Malacañang of the North	40
	Depart for Laoag
12nn	Arrive at Laoag, have lunch	80
	Lunch at Dap-ayan Ti Ilocos. It is like a food court / fast food where there are stalls offering a variety of food choices. Here, you’ll find the famous Laoag empanada and inihaw na longanisa.
1pm	A Walking Tour Around the City of Laoag
	Laoag City tour – Ilocos Norte provincial capitol – Located in front of the Capitol building, the Aurora Park is where the statue of the maiden Pamulinawen – where the Tobacco Monopoly Monument was erected in 1882 – left of the park is the Laoag City Hall
2pm	St William’s Cathedral & the Sinking bell tower
	Walking towards the street on the right side of the park will bring you to the St. William’s Cathedral –
	A few steps away to the left of the Capitol Building is the Museo Ilocos Norte.
	Entrance to Museo Ilocos Norte	30
	Back to the hotel and check-out
4pm	Trip to Pagudpud Beach, “The Boracay of the North”
	Tricycle to Van Terminal	10
	Arrive at van/bus terminal for Pagudpud 2.5-3 hrs travel to Pagudpud
	Fare, Laoag-Pagudpud (van)	70
	How to get to Pagudpud from Laoag – Take a bus or van bound for Claveria Cagayan, it will pass by the town of Pagudpud, which is the last town before reaching Claveria Cagayan. Travel time is 1.5 hours.
	Homestay in Pagudpud (for 1 night)	800
	Arrive at Pagudpud, check-in at Cathy’s Home Stay
	Cathy’s Home Stay, Pagudpud Address: Brgy. Saud, Pagudpud Ilocos Norte Room Rate: 800 pesos, good for 4 persons for an air conditioned room. Contact Details: 09195716680 Notes: One of the cheapest accommodations in Saud Beach, Pagudpud.
	Explore the beach
	Dinner by the beach	65
Fri Nov 30
	Here is the list of the activities you can do to appreciate Pagudpud. Swim and surf in the breathtaking Saud Beach Traysi tour of Pagudpud for P600.00 Thirty minutes trek to majestic Kabigan Falls Stopover at Patapat Viaduct with blue skies and blue sea waters as backdraft See Bantay Abot cave, where waves hit the cliffs Drop by Agua Paraiso, where waves hit the rocks Enjoy huge wave and white sand in pristine Blue Lagoon (Maira-ira beach) Witness Pagudpud sunset Visit Bangui Wind Mills, Bojeador (Burgos) Lighthouse, Curimao, Laoag, Paoay and Vigan
	Wake up and early morning walk by the beach	100
	Breakfast
	Swimming
	Tricycle to and from Pagudpud town proper
	Brunch	80
	Check out of the home stay
8am	The Windmills, Rock Formation, Lighthouse and the Church
	South and North Pagudpud Tour (Tricycle) Rate: 600 pesos per tour Contact Details: 09208532047 look for Kuya Rene
	South Tour includes Bangui windmills, Kapurpurawan Rock Formation and the Cape Bojeador Light House. North Tour usually includes Kabigan Falls, Bantay Abot Cave, Blue Lagoon Beach, Patapat Viaduct, Paraiso ni Anton and Aqua Grande. The town of Adams is also worth a visit if you have more time.
	South Pagudpud tour (tricycle)	300
9am	Arrive at Bangui Windmills
	Officially referred to as the North Wind Bangui Bay Project, it is a major source of renewable energy amounting to 40% of the power requirement of the province. Boasts to be the first wind farm in the Philippines and biggest in Southeast Asia, it is consisted of 20 wind turbines on-shore facing the South China Sea.
	Off to Burgos
10am	Arrive at Kapurpurawan
	In Ilocano, “Kapurpurawan” means “white” – which describes the radiant and sparkling shade of this rock formation. It is a hill of white limestone rock created by forces of the wind, water and waves coming from the ocean – truly, an amazing work of nature. Adjacent to the rock formation is the ocean, which added to the breathtaking sight.
	The Kapurpurawan Rock Formation in Burgos Ilocos Norte really really Rocks!!!
	Arrive at Cape Bojeador
11am	Cape Bojeador or the Burgos Lighthouse
	A cultural heritage structure built during the Spanish Colonial period. Octagonal in shape, it is set high on Vigi de Nagparitan hill overlooking the picturesque Cape Bojeador.
	Fare Burgos-Bacarra (bus)	40
	Fare to Bacarra Church (tricycle)	15
	Arrive at Bacarra Church
	Fare to Bacarra Hi-way (tricycle)	15
	Fare Bacarra to Laoag (jeepney)	10
	Lunch	50
1pm	Off to Vigan
	Check in at Casa Teofilo Loge
	Casa Teofile Lodge Contact Numbers : Mobile – 09326740438 Landline – (077) 7226482 / (077) 7222547 Aircon Rooms with private cr, cable tv and free wi-fi.
	Night Strolling at Crisologo Street
	Start strolling at Crisologo Street. This major attraction of Vigan is its mestizo district which is filled with Spanish-style houses that evoke a bygone era when its people lived prosperously because of the Manila-Acapulco maritime trade.
	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.
	try some of the local food like bagnet mixed with pinakbet and their famous longganisa
	Café Leona Dinner
Sat Dec 1
6am	Café Uno Bfast
	see Crisologo Street,Hidden Garden and Baluarte plus the Vigan old church.
	Crisologo Street – Crisologo Museum – Syquia Mansion – Plaza Salcedo – Burgos Museum – Pagburnayan Jar – Hidden Garden – Baluarte ni Chavit – Bantay Tower – Casa Teofila Lodge
	Hidden Garden
7am	ViganBaluarte ni Chavit
	It’s an 80 hectares of terrains, hills and mountain sides that serves as natural habitat for Gov Chavit Singson’s personal collection of wild animals
8am	Vigan River Cruise
	So, I headed out to my second destination via one of these tricycles. I left Baluarte at 10:28 am and arrived at the site of “Vigan River Cruise” 10:39 am. Fare from Baluarte to Mestizo River, the site of the river cruise, is Php 60. Ticket in the boat ride of Vigan River Cruise costs Php 100. Boats used in the cruise are like those small wooden fishing vessels used by many ordinary Filipino fishermen called “bangka” in Tagalog. Each boat has outriggers for stability and safety of riders, which is good for rough river. But don’t worry, the Mestizo River is calm all the way.
9am	Vigan Heritage Village
	After enjoying the cruise which finished at 11:23 am, it’s time to get to the “Vigan Heritage Village”, the only colonial town in the Philippines and for which Vigan is known. I had made an arrangement with the tricycle I’d ridden from Baluarte to wait for me. Actually, he offered the service to the Heritage Village. I just accepted it for the reason of time management.
	At around 1:30 pm, I thought it’s time to go to bus terminal to be in Laoag before dusk. So, I just took a tricycle for Php 15 to reach terminal of Partas Bus. You just plug down a motorized tricycle and ask the driver to take you to Partas which is near. Wait for bus with “Laoag” sign.
10am	Vigan to Laoag 1.5hrs
2pm	Laoag-MNL

		3595

You could also download the file here. Laoag Itinerary

Happy Adventures!

November 21, 2012

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!

Posted in Davao City, Davao del Sur, Shoot, Travel
Tagged air supply, air supply 2012 concert, air supply concert, air supply davao, air supply davao concert, air supply in philippines, air supply philippines, davao concert air supply
1 Comment

October 31, 2012

Palawan Honda Bay Family Trip

For our third day at Palawan, it’s time to head to the beach. Another travel tour from an agency, we were picked up by the van at around 8am. And off we went to the Honda Bay port after stopping over to a swimming equipment rental gear shop. Equipment rental cost 150php, however if you want to get it cheaper, just rent your equipments at the honda bay port. They cost only 100php. Better off just bring your own! A pair of swimming shoes, and googles is already good to go! After the registration process (long lines again) taken cared of by the tour guide, we rode the boat that will take us to the following islands:

Honda Bay Island Hopping

Pambatu Reef (Mini Tubbattaha Reef as they call it) *not so interesting, the waters are murky, you can’t see that much

Starfish Island (because of the many ‘Starfish’ found in the island). We took our lunch here, prepared by the tour agency also

Pandan Island (named for its abundance of ‘Pandan plants) preferred snorkeling area, you could swim almost anywhere some at even knee deep water for those non swimmers and you’ll already lots and lots of fish. Just recently they stopped the fish feeding here.

Other islands in the area not included in the tour:

Snake island (named after the shape of the island NOT it’s inhabitants!)
Cowrie Island.
Cannon Island
Bat Island. Around 6pm thousands of flying bats in the area
Lu-li Island (which is visible only with low tide). came from two words – lulubog at lilitaw

Budget way to Tour the Honda Bay:

Here’s how: *Take note you have to leave early around 6 or 7am, so you’ll not need to rush together with the tour agencies who’ll be arriving at around 8 or 9am. They always gets prioritized.

Board a Jeepney bound to Sta Lourdes Honda Bay (signage)	Fare is around 10 pesos only
Upon arrival, head to the registration area, where you’ll have to pay for certain fees.
*Better to find another group not on a tour agency (max. of 6 people) to share the rent of one small boat that costs 1,200php	Boat rental : small boat for 1,200php divided by how many are you.
If all goes well, wait for your boat number to be called and you’re all set!
Other fees to be paid are the minimal entrance fees at the islands, And of course, as a back packer, always bring your own baon! haha.
After the island hopping, hire a trike to get you at the intersection where you could already hail a jeepney going back to the ‘Bayan.	Fare to tricycle is 8php. Jeepney fare going to bayan is 10php.

**You could also try strolling, and just a few meters away from the Honda Bay port you could visit the Chinese temple along the way. I’m sure you’ll have bragging rights of having pictures of this to your friends, as this is not usually included in the Honda Bay Tour that agencies offer. haha. But if you still wanna avail of the tour, go ahead and pay your 1,300php per head. I don’t think it’s worth it though.

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

Posted in Palawan, Travel
Tagged Honda Bay Palawan, Honda Bay Palawan tour, how to go to Palawan Honda Bay, Palawan Honda Bay
2 Comments

October 30, 2012

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!

Posted in Palawan, Shoot, Travel
Tagged Book Underground River Tour, How to Book Underground River Tour?, Tamilok, Tamilok at Palawan, Underground River Tour, Underground River Tour Travel Agency
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October 29, 2012

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