Bicol: Apuao Grande Island Resort
13 May 2008
On the second day of Tutubi's Camarines Norte Tour the took him and his friends to Daet, Mampurog River and Bagasbas Beach, the group then hied off to the town of Mercedes' fish port, called pandawan by the locals to baord a rented boat and go island hopping.
There were several islands with visible white sand beaches and interesting rock formations along the way but the group's mainly headed to an abandoned resort on Apuao Grande Island with sandbar, mangrove forests, nine-hole golf course and the adjacent Apuao Pequeña Island.
one of the tropical huts on the resort island you can rent for P2500/night good for 15 persons.
the virgin beach of Apuao Pequeña Island
Similar to Anawangin's beach lined with agoho (an evergreen species of trees that look like pine trees), Apuao Grande Island, one of several islands belonging to the so called Mercedes group of islands, has beaches without the dangerous undercurrent of Anawangin.
the Bantay Dagat boat, with markings BFAR-BDP-2806, that ferried other tourists to the island. (yan na pala ang trabaho ng bantay dagat ngayon, mga turista at balikbayan ang binabantayan...ang dapat na kanilang inaalagaan ay ang likas na yaman ng karagatan. may pera ang mga turista para sa sarili nilang bangka)
mangrove forest in between the two Apuao islands
Tutubi's companions frolicking on the sandbar
Apuao Grande Island Resort used to be operated by Swagman Hotel chain. It's funny that when Tutubi was inquiring for booking accommodations on the island regarding the resort, the booking officer reserved a room for Tutubi at Swagman Hotel in Malate! The misunderstanding was cleared when Tutubi again inquired about Calaguas Island
For your appreciation, herewith is a satellite image of Mercedes group of islands from wikimapia.org:
Other islands belonging to Mercedes Group of Islands: Canton Island, Quinapagihan Island, Caringo Island, Canimog Island, and Malasugui Island.
Other Places to see in Mercedes:
Colasi Falls - about 70 meters in height and can be reached by hiking/trekking. located in barangay Colasi. Canta Cave, Caringo Island Resort on Caringo Island
How to get there:
Commute: from Daet, board a jeepney bound for Mercedes. Ask around for the fish port (pantalan or pandawan) then hire a boat to take you there for about 45 minutes.
Technorati Tags: Paradise Philippines
Read more after the jump!
There were several islands with visible white sand beaches and interesting rock formations along the way but the group's mainly headed to an abandoned resort on Apuao Grande Island with sandbar, mangrove forests, nine-hole golf course and the adjacent Apuao Pequeña Island.
one of the tropical huts on the resort island you can rent for P2500/night good for 15 persons.
the virgin beach of Apuao Pequeña IslandSimilar to Anawangin's beach lined with agoho (an evergreen species of trees that look like pine trees), Apuao Grande Island, one of several islands belonging to the so called Mercedes group of islands, has beaches without the dangerous undercurrent of Anawangin.
the Bantay Dagat boat, with markings BFAR-BDP-2806, that ferried other tourists to the island. (yan na pala ang trabaho ng bantay dagat ngayon, mga turista at balikbayan ang binabantayan...ang dapat na kanilang inaalagaan ay ang likas na yaman ng karagatan. may pera ang mga turista para sa sarili nilang bangka)
mangrove forest in between the two Apuao islands
Tutubi's companions frolicking on the sandbarApuao Grande Island Resort used to be operated by Swagman Hotel chain. It's funny that when Tutubi was inquiring for booking accommodations on the island regarding the resort, the booking officer reserved a room for Tutubi at Swagman Hotel in Malate! The misunderstanding was cleared when Tutubi again inquired about Calaguas Island
For your appreciation, herewith is a satellite image of Mercedes group of islands from wikimapia.org:
Other islands belonging to Mercedes Group of Islands: Canton Island, Quinapagihan Island, Caringo Island, Canimog Island, and Malasugui Island.
Other Places to see in Mercedes:
Colasi Falls - about 70 meters in height and can be reached by hiking/trekking. located in barangay Colasi. Canta Cave, Caringo Island Resort on Caringo Island
How to get there:
Commute: from Daet, board a jeepney bound for Mercedes. Ask around for the fish port (pantalan or pandawan) then hire a boat to take you there for about 45 minutes.
Technorati Tags: Paradise Philippines
Labels: Beaches, Bicol, Camarines Norte, Mercedes
posted by tutubi philippines @ 12:01 AM,
, links to this post
Sun, Sand and Surf on Bagasbas Beach
09 May 2008
After a the brief "cooling down" in Mampurog River, Tutubi and his friends trouped to the beach of Bagasbas for some "beachy" fun.
It's Tutubi's second time on the beach being touted as one of the best surfing beach for beginners. The local surfing school offers surfing classes for those who wanted to learn the rudiments of the exciting water sport.
Bagasbas beach's long stretch of fine gray sand with waves good for newbie surfers. Men undergoing lifeguard training ala Baywatch
one of the rare times Tutubi saw a surfer on a surfboard for a brief photo opportunity
soon-to-be lifeguards playing Ultimate Frisbee on the beach
After the mandatory picture taking and mingling with the friendly locals who even lent the group their surfboards for photo opportunity, a hearty "dinner" ensued at K Sarap restaurant and went grocery shopping in preparation for the major event of the trip to a secluded beach i.e. touted as better than Bora...
How to get there:
Bagasbas Beach is just a tricycle ride away from Daet town proper. Tricycle fare is P50 from Superlines terminal in Barangay Camambugan.
Read more after the jump!
It's Tutubi's second time on the beach being touted as one of the best surfing beach for beginners. The local surfing school offers surfing classes for those who wanted to learn the rudiments of the exciting water sport.
Bagasbas beach's long stretch of fine gray sand with waves good for newbie surfers. Men undergoing lifeguard training ala Baywatch
one of the rare times Tutubi saw a surfer on a surfboard for a brief photo opportunity
soon-to-be lifeguards playing Ultimate Frisbee on the beach
After the mandatory picture taking and mingling with the friendly locals who even lent the group their surfboards for photo opportunity, a hearty "dinner" ensued at K Sarap restaurant and went grocery shopping in preparation for the major event of the trip to a secluded beach i.e. touted as better than Bora...
How to get there:
Bagasbas Beach is just a tricycle ride away from Daet town proper. Tricycle fare is P50 from Superlines terminal in Barangay Camambugan.
Labels: Bagasbas, Beaches, Bicol, Camarines Norte, Daet, Philippines, Surfing, Water Sports
posted by tutubi philippines @ 10:29 PM,
, links to this post
The Cool Water of Mampurog River
After resting for a while and preparing for lunch in Daet, Tutubi and his friends rode a tricycle to the terminal of San Lorenzo Ruiz-bound jeepneys. The road to Club Noah, the name of the resort on the banks of Mampurog River, was filled with potholes and very rural looking.
the sign of Club Noah prominently displayed on the Daet-Mampurog road with rates and telephone numbers
After a few minutes of soaking in the cold water of the rocky stream and few photo opportunities, decided to eat lunch, again took pictures then hurried off to ride the jeepney back to Daet's famous Bagasbas Beach.
the cold water of the river, actually just a sapa (stream), is a favorite of locals for picnics and escape from the searing summer sun
a common site in the Philippines: men drinking while soaking in rivers and lakes
on the exit trail of Club Noah
Next pitstop: Bagasbas Beach
A similar resort, named Sinagtala resort, can also be found in the town of Labo, also a jeepney ride away from Daet.
Read more after the jump!
the sign of Club Noah prominently displayed on the Daet-Mampurog road with rates and telephone numbersAfter a few minutes of soaking in the cold water of the rocky stream and few photo opportunities, decided to eat lunch, again took pictures then hurried off to ride the jeepney back to Daet's famous Bagasbas Beach.
the cold water of the river, actually just a sapa (stream), is a favorite of locals for picnics and escape from the searing summer sun
a common site in the Philippines: men drinking while soaking in rivers and lakes
on the exit trail of Club NoahNext pitstop: Bagasbas Beach
A similar resort, named Sinagtala resort, can also be found in the town of Labo, also a jeepney ride away from Daet.
Labels: Bicol, Camarines Norte, Daet, Rivers, San Lorenzo Ruiz
posted by tutubi philippines @ 9:31 PM,
, links to this post
Daet: the Gateway to the Bicol Region
04 May 2008
A mention of Daet to Tutubi will bring back memories of pancit bato and pineapples besides Bagasbas Beach and the first monument of Jose Rizal, remembrances of his first tour of Bicol region during Holy Week of 2003 that took him as far as Naga City (home of the Penafrancia), Legaspi City (Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa ruins) and Donsol (an unplanned trip to see the whale sharks).
This time, he returned to Daet, again guided by his close friend, a local from Camarines Norte's capital town, for a long-planned tour of the province, once slated last month, but pushed through recently, to accommodate Tutubi's friends who can't join on the earlier date.
Met up at Superlines bus terminal for the 930pm trip (the second of only trips to Daet, the first one is at 9pm), the trip was marred by a flat tire that made the duration of the commute to almost nine hours on the zigzag road (not Bitukang Manok) and arrived in Daet at seven in the morning.
The group had pancit bato and binamban (a cassava delicacy wrapped in leaves) then rested for a while before preparing for lunch and picnic at Club Noah located on the banks of Mampurog River in San Lorenzo Ruiz town, a tiring jeepney ride away on a pothole-filled road with mini-lakes created by the first rain of May.
pancit bato, and binamban plus pandesal for breakfast
the first monument erected in honor of Jose Rizal in 1898 (trivia: the one in Paete, Laguna is also one of the oldest having been erected in 1903)
After lunch and short dip at the cold water of Mampurog river, the group decided to go to Bagasbas Beach for pictures, "pseudo" surfing lessons, and beach bum then head for early snack of dinuguan, empanada at K Sarap Restaurant (nice place, low price).
picture of half-naked boys in front of Camarines Norte Provincial Capitol
This is just a teaser...will post pictures and stories including a hidden gem of Camarines Norte in the form of an unspoiled, virgin beach :P
---
Daet Travel Information:
Where to stay in Daet:
there are no resorts along Bagasbas Beach but hotels, inns and pension houses are available at the town center. Tutubi stayed at the best homestay accommodation there is in Daet: at his friend's house in Brgy. Camambugan, just a few meters away from Superlines bus terminal.
Places to see in Daet:
First Monument erected in honor of Jose Rizal
Bagasbas Beach, surfing for beginners
Daet Festivals:
Pinyahan Festival (or Pineapple Festival) celebrating Daet's sweet pineapples (formosa variety) and Bantayog Festival (province-wide) in honor of Jose Rizal in mid-March to mid-April.
How to get to Daet, Camarines Norte:
Flights to Daet: there is a small airport but can only accommodate small planes like SeAir with has direct flights from Manila. If you need to fly in a bigger plane, you need to book a flight to Naga City in Camarines Sur then take a jeepney or bus for a two hour trip to Daet. Naga is serviced by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Air Philippines.
Commute: Buses to Daet are available on EDSA Cubao, Quezon City with Philtranco (fare: P650 one way for their deluxe/GS/Gold Service bus with toilet (recommended: CR, comfortable, reclining seats, more legroom, coaster)), Superlines (fare: P420 air-conditioned but slow, with stopover in Atimonan, Quezon), and Amihan (fare: P500 air-con). Travel time took almost 8 hours for Superlines going there while the return trip to Cubao via Superline took only 7 hours)
Driving directions: from Makati, head to SLEX and exit at Batangas follow Maharlika highway going to Lucena City. Look for any bus heading to Daet on the highway where you'll also pass by these towns: Pagbilao, Atimonan, Plaridel, Gumaca, Lopez, Calauag, Tagkawayan, Sta. Elena, Talisay, Labo, then finally Daet.
Technorati Tags: Daet Tourism, Pineapple Festival, Bantayog Festival, Paradise Philippines
Read more after the jump!
This time, he returned to Daet, again guided by his close friend, a local from Camarines Norte's capital town, for a long-planned tour of the province, once slated last month, but pushed through recently, to accommodate Tutubi's friends who can't join on the earlier date.
Met up at Superlines bus terminal for the 930pm trip (the second of only trips to Daet, the first one is at 9pm), the trip was marred by a flat tire that made the duration of the commute to almost nine hours on the zigzag road (not Bitukang Manok) and arrived in Daet at seven in the morning.
The group had pancit bato and binamban (a cassava delicacy wrapped in leaves) then rested for a while before preparing for lunch and picnic at Club Noah located on the banks of Mampurog River in San Lorenzo Ruiz town, a tiring jeepney ride away on a pothole-filled road with mini-lakes created by the first rain of May.
pancit bato, and binamban plus pandesal for breakfast
the first monument erected in honor of Jose Rizal in 1898 (trivia: the one in Paete, Laguna is also one of the oldest having been erected in 1903)After lunch and short dip at the cold water of Mampurog river, the group decided to go to Bagasbas Beach for pictures, "pseudo" surfing lessons, and beach bum then head for early snack of dinuguan, empanada at K Sarap Restaurant (nice place, low price).
picture of half-naked boys in front of Camarines Norte Provincial Capitol This is just a teaser...will post pictures and stories including a hidden gem of Camarines Norte in the form of an unspoiled, virgin beach :P
---
Daet Travel Information:
Where to stay in Daet:
there are no resorts along Bagasbas Beach but hotels, inns and pension houses are available at the town center. Tutubi stayed at the best homestay accommodation there is in Daet: at his friend's house in Brgy. Camambugan, just a few meters away from Superlines bus terminal.
Places to see in Daet:
First Monument erected in honor of Jose Rizal
Bagasbas Beach, surfing for beginners
Daet Festivals:
Pinyahan Festival (or Pineapple Festival) celebrating Daet's sweet pineapples (formosa variety) and Bantayog Festival (province-wide) in honor of Jose Rizal in mid-March to mid-April.
How to get to Daet, Camarines Norte:
Flights to Daet: there is a small airport but can only accommodate small planes like SeAir with has direct flights from Manila. If you need to fly in a bigger plane, you need to book a flight to Naga City in Camarines Sur then take a jeepney or bus for a two hour trip to Daet. Naga is serviced by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Air Philippines.
Commute: Buses to Daet are available on EDSA Cubao, Quezon City with Philtranco (fare: P650 one way for their deluxe/GS/Gold Service bus with toilet (recommended: CR, comfortable, reclining seats, more legroom, coaster)), Superlines (fare: P420 air-conditioned but slow, with stopover in Atimonan, Quezon), and Amihan (fare: P500 air-con). Travel time took almost 8 hours for Superlines going there while the return trip to Cubao via Superline took only 7 hours)
Driving directions: from Makati, head to SLEX and exit at Batangas follow Maharlika highway going to Lucena City. Look for any bus heading to Daet on the highway where you'll also pass by these towns: Pagbilao, Atimonan, Plaridel, Gumaca, Lopez, Calauag, Tagkawayan, Sta. Elena, Talisay, Labo, then finally Daet.
Technorati Tags: Daet Tourism, Pineapple Festival, Bantayog Festival, Paradise Philippines
Labels: Bicol, Camarines Norte, Daet
posted by tutubi philippines @ 9:57 PM,
, links to this post
Mount Luho View Point , Boracay
28 April 2008
Usually out of the radar screen of most tourists in Boracay, the island's highest peak, Mt. Luho, offers adventurers to an easy to moderate trek/climb and offer a panoramic view of the island. A view deck made of bamboo is available at the peak for an unobstructed view.
the Mt. Luho sign at the entrance with concrete steps that leads to the summit
signs also in Korean signifying presence of Koreans on Boracay Island
An entrance fee of P50 is required for all visitors. The park also has a mini-zoo where you can find the rare and critically endangered Philippine Eagle (one of the largest raptors on the planet that Tutubi would love to see in the wild instead of a constricting cage), bayawak (monitor lizard), several pythons, birds, alamid/musang (civet or wild cat) and a monkey who loves to look at himself on a mirror.
a view of Alta Vista de Boracay, a high-end condominium development near Fairways and Bluewater Golf course and Puka beach
picture of Ilig-iligan beach with secluded coves and private resorts
a mighty Philippine eagle, pitifully caged, that should belong in the wild
a hard to photograph monkey afflicted with narcissim, spent much of his time looking at himself on a mirror he's holding
When Tutubi and his friends visited the place, they were the only locals. Most visitors were Koreans and Americans who came on board ATVs (all terrain vehicles).
---
How to get to Mt. Luho View Point:
Hard yet healthy way: trek from white beach, go to the main road towards Pacific Patio (formerly Pink Patio) and pass by bulabog beach access road, turn left at the end then just follow the road to the summit.
Usual way: rent a tricycle to take you there. Cost is around P150 to P250 per hour (depends on your negotiating skills. higher if you're a foreigner)
Great way: for the moneyed few, rent an ATV or bug car then drive on the dusty road up the mountains. ATV rental shops are available in near the entrance of Fairways & Bluewater Resort Golf & Country Club.
ATVs used by Koreans to get to Mt. Luho view point
Related Posts:
Boracay Travel Guide
Boracay White Beach
ATV, Bug Car in Boracay
Kitesurfing, Kiteboarding, Wind Surfing
Talipapa Seafoods
Technorati Tags: Mount Luho, Philippine Eagle, Alta Vista de Boracay, Ilig-iligan Beach, Paradise Philippines
Read more after the jump!
the Mt. Luho sign at the entrance with concrete steps that leads to the summit
signs also in Korean signifying presence of Koreans on Boracay IslandAn entrance fee of P50 is required for all visitors. The park also has a mini-zoo where you can find the rare and critically endangered Philippine Eagle (one of the largest raptors on the planet that Tutubi would love to see in the wild instead of a constricting cage), bayawak (monitor lizard), several pythons, birds, alamid/musang (civet or wild cat) and a monkey who loves to look at himself on a mirror.
a view of Alta Vista de Boracay, a high-end condominium development near Fairways and Bluewater Golf course and Puka beach
picture of Ilig-iligan beach with secluded coves and private resorts
a mighty Philippine eagle, pitifully caged, that should belong in the wild
a hard to photograph monkey afflicted with narcissim, spent much of his time looking at himself on a mirror he's holdingWhen Tutubi and his friends visited the place, they were the only locals. Most visitors were Koreans and Americans who came on board ATVs (all terrain vehicles).
---
How to get to Mt. Luho View Point:
Hard yet healthy way: trek from white beach, go to the main road towards Pacific Patio (formerly Pink Patio) and pass by bulabog beach access road, turn left at the end then just follow the road to the summit.
Usual way: rent a tricycle to take you there. Cost is around P150 to P250 per hour (depends on your negotiating skills. higher if you're a foreigner)
Great way: for the moneyed few, rent an ATV or bug car then drive on the dusty road up the mountains. ATV rental shops are available in near the entrance of Fairways & Bluewater Resort Golf & Country Club.
ATVs used by Koreans to get to Mt. Luho view pointRelated Posts:
Boracay Travel Guide
Boracay White Beach
ATV, Bug Car in Boracay
Kitesurfing, Kiteboarding, Wind Surfing
Talipapa Seafoods
Technorati Tags: Mount Luho, Philippine Eagle, Alta Vista de Boracay, Ilig-iligan Beach, Paradise Philippines
posted by tutubi philippines @ 9:31 PM,
, links to this post
Ploning's Cuyo Island in Palawan
27 April 2008
Having an incurable disease called wanderlust and insatiable appetite for art films (where he eagerly awaits schedules of CineEuropa, Eiga Sai and other film festivals), Tutubi was already setting his sights on isolated Cuyo Island group in Palawan when he heard about the movie Ploning co-produced by Judy Ann Santos, endeared as Juday by Pinoys, with the teaser trailer released showing location shots in Cuyo.
Cuyo is actually a group of 45 isolated islands part of the province of Palawan and yet too far from any land, between Palawan and Mindoro. The island lacks tourist facilities although there's said to be an inn and pension house, no pricey resorts and hotels that cater to mainstream tourists. There are said to be a few European retirees living on the island cherishing a slow paced life away from the rest of the world.
Ploning movie review to follow should Tutubi get to see the flick and no, this is not an advertisement for the movie :P
Cuyo Travel Information:
Cuyo town is home to an old Spanish fort, Cuyo Fort and a centuries old church.
Typical activities, as narrated by Tutubi's friend who grew up on the island, include snorkeling, beach bumming, island hopping, diving. The presence of strong winds is also ideal for kitesurfing, kiteboarding, wind surfing (boardsailing) that can give Boracay's Bulabog beach a run for its tourism money, though Cuyo is more laid back than the overrated tourist-infested island.
Other interesting islands nearby are Pamalican Island, home to the über-pricey and ultra-exclusive Amanpulo Resort, picture-perfect Pandan Island with its black volcanic rocks, the fine beach of Seland Island and Bisucay Island with coral garden good for snorkeling.
Similar to Boracay's Mt. Luho, you can also climb Mt. Aguado for a panoramic view of the whole island while Quejano beach holds promise once resorts start to mushroom in the area.
Where to stay in Cuyo:
if you have the budget, go for Amanpulo. No information yet on resorts, hotels, inns and other lodging available. Cheap homestays can be arranged though like what Tutubi is planning in the future.
How to get to Cuyo Island, Palawan:
Sea Air flies to Cuyo Island from Puerto Princesa every Tuesday and Saturday (flight time 50 minutes) and from Manila - Busuanga - Cuyo also every Tuesday and Saturday (travel time: 130 minutes, due to the stopover)
Ferries to Cuyo Island can be from Coron, Puerto Princesa City and Iloilo. Schedules and costs will be posted here once available.
Technorati Tags: Cuyo Island, Ploning, Juday, Judy Ann Santos, Paradise Philippines
Read more after the jump!
Cuyo is actually a group of 45 isolated islands part of the province of Palawan and yet too far from any land, between Palawan and Mindoro. The island lacks tourist facilities although there's said to be an inn and pension house, no pricey resorts and hotels that cater to mainstream tourists. There are said to be a few European retirees living on the island cherishing a slow paced life away from the rest of the world.
Ploning movie review to follow should Tutubi get to see the flick and no, this is not an advertisement for the movie :P
Cuyo Travel Information:
Cuyo town is home to an old Spanish fort, Cuyo Fort and a centuries old church.
Typical activities, as narrated by Tutubi's friend who grew up on the island, include snorkeling, beach bumming, island hopping, diving. The presence of strong winds is also ideal for kitesurfing, kiteboarding, wind surfing (boardsailing) that can give Boracay's Bulabog beach a run for its tourism money, though Cuyo is more laid back than the overrated tourist-infested island.
Other interesting islands nearby are Pamalican Island, home to the über-pricey and ultra-exclusive Amanpulo Resort, picture-perfect Pandan Island with its black volcanic rocks, the fine beach of Seland Island and Bisucay Island with coral garden good for snorkeling.
Similar to Boracay's Mt. Luho, you can also climb Mt. Aguado for a panoramic view of the whole island while Quejano beach holds promise once resorts start to mushroom in the area.
Where to stay in Cuyo:
if you have the budget, go for Amanpulo. No information yet on resorts, hotels, inns and other lodging available. Cheap homestays can be arranged though like what Tutubi is planning in the future.
How to get to Cuyo Island, Palawan:
Sea Air flies to Cuyo Island from Puerto Princesa every Tuesday and Saturday (flight time 50 minutes) and from Manila - Busuanga - Cuyo also every Tuesday and Saturday (travel time: 130 minutes, due to the stopover)
Ferries to Cuyo Island can be from Coron, Puerto Princesa City and Iloilo. Schedules and costs will be posted here once available.
Technorati Tags: Cuyo Island, Ploning, Juday, Judy Ann Santos, Paradise Philippines
Labels: Palawan
posted by tutubi philippines @ 9:31 PM,
, links to this post
Taal Volcano via Talisay Batangas
24 April 2008
Taal Volcano, one of the Philippines' 22 active volcanoes inside the so called Pacific Ring of Fire, usually marveled at from Tagaytay City by people trying to escape the heat of Metro Manila, is in itself a tourist destination for adventurers looking for a different high by hiking/trekking to the crater lake within Taal lake which is actually a crater of a big caldera.
A few weeks after their company outing, Tutubi and his officemates went to Tagaytay for another outing at an officemates bahay kubo (native hut) near Southridge.
A mini-feast ensued followed by brief rest before hieing off to nearby Talisay down the ridge, checked out properties for sale at Taal View Heights Country Homes gated community, went for a visit at the Buena Vista Nature Park and Country Club (near Tagaytay Highlands) and swam at the club's swimming pool.
view of volcanic island from Taal View Heights
On the return to Tagaytay, stopped for a brief photo opportunity at the view deck of Laeuna de Taal before going back to Manila.
View of Taal Volcano from Laeuna de Taal viewdeck on Ligaya Drive. Note that the cone is actually not the crater like most people think. The actual crater, behind this conical structure, looks like a lake (within a lake) though it's also a crater within a crater.
Taal Lake with the highly visible fish cages used for raising tilapia. The fish cages are blamed for the lasang putik (liya or gilik) of fish catch including the endemic tawilis and maliputo
Tutubi wanted so much to trek to the crater lake, as initially thought out but, as always, planned travels by Filipinos often times don't materialize. That is the reason why he is such a big fan of unplanned travels.
It's also good to note that the title should have read-- the Taal Volcano Crater Trek that Never Was!
---
If you want to do some hiking by Taal Volcano crater trek, you can proceed to Talisay Public Market to board the boats to the island
Cost of Taal Volcano Trek/Hike:
Bus from Manila to Tanauan: P89.00
Jeepney fare from Tanauan to Talisay: N/A
P50 landing tax (Tourist Center)
P20 docking fee
P1500 per boat maximum of 6 persons (P250/pax)
P10/person barangay fee
P500 for horse with a guide (horseback ride to the crater lake)
Tourist Trap:
Warning: don't entertain the men offering you trips and boats in Tagaytay for they usually charge unsupecting tourists an arm and a leg. Don't even look them in the eye for they're very persuasive and may run after your vehicle.
Talisay Resorts and Accommodations:
Club Balai Isabel
Talisay, Batangas (highly noticeable on the main road)
Talisay Green Lake Resort
Address : Barangay Sta. Maria, Talisay, Batangas
Contact No. : +63.43.773.0247
Al Frontera de Taal
Address: Lakeshore Activity Point, Barangay Banga
Tel. No: +63.43.631.1291
Fax: +63.43.631.1294
Taal Lake Yacht Club
Tel. No: +63.43.773.0192
Tel. No: +63.2.811.3183; +63.2.811.3283
*please call the published number or visit official websites for room rates. No pictures/photos yet as well as cheap, recommended hotels, resorts, homestays, inns and pension houses.
How to get to Talisay, Batangas:
Commute via Tanauan, Batangas:
Board a Batangas City-bound bus on Taft Avenue, Pasay City near Buendia LRT station (choose Batangas City via Tanauan and not Batangas City via Calabarzon) and alight in front of Tanauan public market (Fare: P89.00). Transfer to a Talisay-bound jeep to get to your resort/hotel.
Commute via Tagaytay:
Board a Nasugbu-bound bus and drop off in Tagaytay (request the driver to drop you off to the terminal of Talisay-bound jeepneys). Transfer to the jeep with Talisay signboard. This passes through the zigzag route down Tagaytay ridge (not for the faint of heart)
Driving Directions to Talisay via STAR TOLL (Tanauan)
From Makati, take SLEX and exit the second to the last toll gate (Silangan, Batangas City, Lucena). You'll pass by Turbina (Shell), Carmelray and turn right to enter STAR TOLLWAY. Exit at SAMBAT (Tanauan) then turn right going to Talisay (a left will take you to Tanauan town proper). Just follow the road to your destination resort or Talisay public market.
Directions to Talisay via Tagaytay (not for newbie drivers):
From Makati, take SLEX and exit at GREENFIELD CITY (Eton City) where you'll pass by Pramana, and Nuvali. Follow directions where you'll see Paseo de Santa Rosa, Silang then up to Tagaytay Market. At the end of the road (Tagaytay Econo Inn), turn left then right at Ligaya Drive (the left side of the highway is Tagaytay Elementary School) where you'll see the Talisay jeepney terminal, pass by Balai Taal. This is a winding 6 kilometer road down the ridge with at least 2 sharp curves (you'll be greeted by the excellent views from the Laeuna de Taal viewdeck). At the end of the road is Talisay's main road where many resorts dot the lakeside.
Directions to Talisay via Coastal Road, Aguinaldo Highway, Cavite
Head to Roxas Blvd and Coastal Road going to Aguinaldo Highway up to Tagaytay rotonda. At the rotonda, turn left towards Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP). Continue driving until you reach Ligaya Drive where ou turn left (right side is Tagaytay Elementary School). Follow the winding road to Talisay to get to your resort.
Related Posts:
Mayon Volcano
Mt. Pinatubo Crater Hike
Technorati Tags: Taal Lake,Taal Volcano, Talisay, Paradise Philippines, Philippines
Read more after the jump!
A few weeks after their company outing, Tutubi and his officemates went to Tagaytay for another outing at an officemates bahay kubo (native hut) near Southridge.A mini-feast ensued followed by brief rest before hieing off to nearby Talisay down the ridge, checked out properties for sale at Taal View Heights Country Homes gated community, went for a visit at the Buena Vista Nature Park and Country Club (near Tagaytay Highlands) and swam at the club's swimming pool.
view of volcanic island from Taal View HeightsOn the return to Tagaytay, stopped for a brief photo opportunity at the view deck of Laeuna de Taal before going back to Manila.
View of Taal Volcano from Laeuna de Taal viewdeck on Ligaya Drive. Note that the cone is actually not the crater like most people think. The actual crater, behind this conical structure, looks like a lake (within a lake) though it's also a crater within a crater.
Taal Lake with the highly visible fish cages used for raising tilapia. The fish cages are blamed for the lasang putik (liya or gilik) of fish catch including the endemic tawilis and maliputoTutubi wanted so much to trek to the crater lake, as initially thought out but, as always, planned travels by Filipinos often times don't materialize. That is the reason why he is such a big fan of unplanned travels.
It's also good to note that the title should have read-- the Taal Volcano Crater Trek that Never Was!
---
If you want to do some hiking by Taal Volcano crater trek, you can proceed to Talisay Public Market to board the boats to the island
Cost of Taal Volcano Trek/Hike:
Bus from Manila to Tanauan: P89.00
Jeepney fare from Tanauan to Talisay: N/A
P50 landing tax (Tourist Center)
P20 docking fee
P1500 per boat maximum of 6 persons (P250/pax)
P10/person barangay fee
P500 for horse with a guide (horseback ride to the crater lake)
Tourist Trap:
Warning: don't entertain the men offering you trips and boats in Tagaytay for they usually charge unsupecting tourists an arm and a leg. Don't even look them in the eye for they're very persuasive and may run after your vehicle.
Talisay Resorts and Accommodations:
Club Balai Isabel
Talisay, Batangas (highly noticeable on the main road)
Talisay Green Lake Resort
Address : Barangay Sta. Maria, Talisay, Batangas
Contact No. : +63.43.773.0247
Al Frontera de Taal
Address: Lakeshore Activity Point, Barangay Banga
Tel. No: +63.43.631.1291
Fax: +63.43.631.1294
Taal Lake Yacht Club
Tel. No: +63.43.773.0192
Tel. No: +63.2.811.3183; +63.2.811.3283
*please call the published number or visit official websites for room rates. No pictures/photos yet as well as cheap, recommended hotels, resorts, homestays, inns and pension houses.
How to get to Talisay, Batangas:
Commute via Tanauan, Batangas:
Board a Batangas City-bound bus on Taft Avenue, Pasay City near Buendia LRT station (choose Batangas City via Tanauan and not Batangas City via Calabarzon) and alight in front of Tanauan public market (Fare: P89.00). Transfer to a Talisay-bound jeep to get to your resort/hotel.
Commute via Tagaytay:
Board a Nasugbu-bound bus and drop off in Tagaytay (request the driver to drop you off to the terminal of Talisay-bound jeepneys). Transfer to the jeep with Talisay signboard. This passes through the zigzag route down Tagaytay ridge (not for the faint of heart)
Driving Directions to Talisay via STAR TOLL (Tanauan)
From Makati, take SLEX and exit the second to the last toll gate (Silangan, Batangas City, Lucena). You'll pass by Turbina (Shell), Carmelray and turn right to enter STAR TOLLWAY. Exit at SAMBAT (Tanauan) then turn right going to Talisay (a left will take you to Tanauan town proper). Just follow the road to your destination resort or Talisay public market.
Directions to Talisay via Tagaytay (not for newbie drivers):
From Makati, take SLEX and exit at GREENFIELD CITY (Eton City) where you'll pass by Pramana, and Nuvali. Follow directions where you'll see Paseo de Santa Rosa, Silang then up to Tagaytay Market. At the end of the road (Tagaytay Econo Inn), turn left then right at Ligaya Drive (the left side of the highway is Tagaytay Elementary School) where you'll see the Talisay jeepney terminal, pass by Balai Taal. This is a winding 6 kilometer road down the ridge with at least 2 sharp curves (you'll be greeted by the excellent views from the Laeuna de Taal viewdeck). At the end of the road is Talisay's main road where many resorts dot the lakeside.
Directions to Talisay via Coastal Road, Aguinaldo Highway, Cavite
Head to Roxas Blvd and Coastal Road going to Aguinaldo Highway up to Tagaytay rotonda. At the rotonda, turn left towards Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP). Continue driving until you reach Ligaya Drive where ou turn left (right side is Tagaytay Elementary School). Follow the winding road to Talisay to get to your resort.
Related Posts:
Mayon Volcano
Mt. Pinatubo Crater Hike
Technorati Tags: Taal Lake,Taal Volcano, Talisay, Paradise Philippines, Philippines
Labels: Batangas, Rivers and Lakes, Travel Guides, Volcanoes
posted by tutubi philippines @ 11:17 PM,
, links to this post
"Koh Lanta" "Survivor-France" Shooting in Caramoan Peninsula, Camarines Sur
In his perpetual search of unspoiled beaches, "off the beaten track" destinations and pristine spots in the Philippines, Tutubi has been secretly planning to a much raved about place by backpackers and landscape photographers with their images of picture-perpect Caramoan Peninsula in the Bicol province of Camarines Sur. His plan was halted and probably re-scheduled for next year due to a news item by the Philippine Daily Inquirer about the ongoing location shoot of Survivor-France held in a highly secretive deal that involved declaring the famous Gota Beach as closed due to massive development and construction. Even Camarines Sur's official website had the same declaration that the place is currently closed.
Of cordoning off of tourist spots, there has been buzz lately generated by fellow travelers about the closure of Kayangan Lake in Coron, Calamian Islands, Palawan to give way to the shoot of GMA Kapuso's Dyesebel (the nth incarnation of the classic komiks mermaid character by Mars Ravelo) aggravated by power-tripping Coast Guard personnel who shooed tourists away.
Regarding Koh Lanta (Survivor France), the show shot episodes in Koh Lanta, a resort island in southern Thailand, then another season in Palawan that wowed French televiewers. This prompted bookings by French vacationers to Palawan.
Tutubi wants to showcase the Philippines by featuring destinations in the country; he wants to visit the places before they're overrun by the usual tourists and turn the place into another tourist-infested and cacophonic spot like Boracay. With the exposure it's getting now and the development of the place, once Gota beach re-opens in June of this year, expect more people to check the place out and the opening of beach resorts, inns and homestay accommodations. This is good for Bicol tourism but bad for Tutubi. If that happens, Tutubi will just go island-hopping to find his own secluded beach.
Hope people of Caramoan gets to develop sustainable eco-tourism and not destructive over-development of their pristine place.
---
For pictures of Caramoan Peninsula, you may have to wait when Tutubi gets there :P
How to get to Caramoan Peninsula:
From manila, you may book flights to Naga City, or commute by an 8-hour bus trip (terminals on EDSA Cubao or Paranaque City near MRT Taft Avenue station). From Naga City, ride a sabang-bound bus for two hours followed by another 2-hour ride, this time by banca (boat) to Quijalo (with two trips daily in the morning). Gota beach, the most popular of Caramoan's pristine beaches is accesible via jeepney ride to Centro (poblacion) followed by a tricycle ride. To to Island-hopping, you may hire boats to take you to various islands nearby.
A friend of Tutubi who knew the place suggested looking for the barangay captain in case you need driving directions and secure parking.
Technorati Tags: Koh Lanta, Survivor, Survivor France, Paradise Philippines
Read more after the jump!
Of cordoning off of tourist spots, there has been buzz lately generated by fellow travelers about the closure of Kayangan Lake in Coron, Calamian Islands, Palawan to give way to the shoot of GMA Kapuso's Dyesebel (the nth incarnation of the classic komiks mermaid character by Mars Ravelo) aggravated by power-tripping Coast Guard personnel who shooed tourists away.
Regarding Koh Lanta (Survivor France), the show shot episodes in Koh Lanta, a resort island in southern Thailand, then another season in Palawan that wowed French televiewers. This prompted bookings by French vacationers to Palawan.
Tutubi wants to showcase the Philippines by featuring destinations in the country; he wants to visit the places before they're overrun by the usual tourists and turn the place into another tourist-infested and cacophonic spot like Boracay. With the exposure it's getting now and the development of the place, once Gota beach re-opens in June of this year, expect more people to check the place out and the opening of beach resorts, inns and homestay accommodations. This is good for Bicol tourism but bad for Tutubi. If that happens, Tutubi will just go island-hopping to find his own secluded beach.
Hope people of Caramoan gets to develop sustainable eco-tourism and not destructive over-development of their pristine place.
---
For pictures of Caramoan Peninsula, you may have to wait when Tutubi gets there :P
How to get to Caramoan Peninsula:
From manila, you may book flights to Naga City, or commute by an 8-hour bus trip (terminals on EDSA Cubao or Paranaque City near MRT Taft Avenue station). From Naga City, ride a sabang-bound bus for two hours followed by another 2-hour ride, this time by banca (boat) to Quijalo (with two trips daily in the morning). Gota beach, the most popular of Caramoan's pristine beaches is accesible via jeepney ride to Centro (poblacion) followed by a tricycle ride. To to Island-hopping, you may hire boats to take you to various islands nearby.
A friend of Tutubi who knew the place suggested looking for the barangay captain in case you need driving directions and secure parking.
Technorati Tags: Koh Lanta, Survivor, Survivor France, Paradise Philippines
Labels: Bicol, Camarines Sur, Caramoan, Caramoan Peninsula
posted by tutubi philippines @ 8:13 PM,
, links to this post
Curacha Encounter at La Vista del Mar
20 April 2008
Due to Tutubi's insistence, he was able to persuade his officemates to eat out at the famed La Vista del Mar restaurant on the seafront of Zamboanga City due to information from their driver that they also offer Zamboanga's sought after curacha, a certain species of sea crab endemic in the waters around Zamboanga peninsula.
Going to the place from Garden Orchid Hotel was quite a long drive since it's quite far. Checkpoints were everywhere and security was tight due to the presence of American troops participating in the Balikatan (shoulder to shoulder) exercise, a military exercise between US and Philippine soldiers.
the vinta-lined tables of La Vista del Mar
Picture of La Vista del Mar's last remaining curacha as shown by the waiter on a basin. The curacha is a crustacean found only in the area around Zamboanga peninsula.
the underside of curacha with legs that look like crabs and lobsters
Curacha is the Chavacano word for the crustacean that looks like a crossbreed between a large sea crab and the big spiny lobster that's also meaty and delicious! Best to cook it minimally to preserve its unique exotic taste.
Tutubi was surprised that there were no other people except a group of foreigners, tourists that is, who came to explore the area in spite of the travel advisories. The tourists seem to enjoy their stay where most people dare not tread out of fear even if they haven't been there.
seafood rice with evil aligue (crab fat)
Comments/Review: La Vista del Mar's place is cozy with ambiance of Zamboanga truly captured with great vista of the sea. Menu prices are cheaper than that of Hai San Restaurant but can't give you actual prices since Tutubi didn't shoulder the bill.
Adjacent to La Vista del Mar is Maria Clara Art Gallery. Also proximate is the Yakan Weaving Village where you can buy handwoven products of Yakan people of Basilan.
How to get to La Vista del Mar:
Board a jeep in the city (pueblo) with signboard Rio Hondo (a Muslim village of houses on stilts built over water). The place is near Yakan Weaving Village.
Note: cucaracha is the spanish word for cockroach
Related Zamboanga City Posts:
Fort Pilar
Camp Atilano, Pasonanca Park
Hardin Maria Clara Lobregat, Pasonanca Park
Tags: Curacha, Zamboanga City Restaurant, Sea Crab, La Vista del Mar, Paradise Philippines
Read more after the jump!
Going to the place from Garden Orchid Hotel was quite a long drive since it's quite far. Checkpoints were everywhere and security was tight due to the presence of American troops participating in the Balikatan (shoulder to shoulder) exercise, a military exercise between US and Philippine soldiers.
the vinta-lined tables of La Vista del Mar
Picture of La Vista del Mar's last remaining curacha as shown by the waiter on a basin. The curacha is a crustacean found only in the area around Zamboanga peninsula.
the underside of curacha with legs that look like crabs and lobstersCuracha is the Chavacano word for the crustacean that looks like a crossbreed between a large sea crab and the big spiny lobster that's also meaty and delicious! Best to cook it minimally to preserve its unique exotic taste.
Tutubi was surprised that there were no other people except a group of foreigners, tourists that is, who came to explore the area in spite of the travel advisories. The tourists seem to enjoy their stay where most people dare not tread out of fear even if they haven't been there.
seafood rice with evil aligue (crab fat)Comments/Review: La Vista del Mar's place is cozy with ambiance of Zamboanga truly captured with great vista of the sea. Menu prices are cheaper than that of Hai San Restaurant but can't give you actual prices since Tutubi didn't shoulder the bill.
Adjacent to La Vista del Mar is Maria Clara Art Gallery. Also proximate is the Yakan Weaving Village where you can buy handwoven products of Yakan people of Basilan.
How to get to La Vista del Mar:
Board a jeep in the city (pueblo) with signboard Rio Hondo (a Muslim village of houses on stilts built over water). The place is near Yakan Weaving Village.
Note: cucaracha is the spanish word for cockroach
Related Zamboanga City Posts:
Fort Pilar
Camp Atilano, Pasonanca Park
Hardin Maria Clara Lobregat, Pasonanca Park
Tags: Curacha, Zamboanga City Restaurant, Sea Crab, La Vista del Mar, Paradise Philippines
Labels: Restaurants, Seafood, Zamboanga, Zamboanga City
posted by tutubi philippines @ 9:35 PM,
, links to this post
Boracay: D'Talipapa Fresh Seafood Market
14 April 2008
Most friends and officemates of Tutubi when asked about Boracay will answer it's expensive there particularly food but when asked where they eat, they'll always answer they eat out at various restaurants on the beachfront, hence the pricey and touristy price tags.Tutubi will share his recommended "cheap place to eat" in Boracay particularly fresh seafood at a price much less than those in beachfront restaurants a few meters away
D'Talipapa, located near Station 2 and walking distance from White Beach particularly near Boracay Courtyard, Sunset Beach Resort and Culpepper Lodge, is a public market where you can buy souvenirs, vegetables, meat, and other food items at a low price. There's also a service called "paluto" where you can buy your own ingredients, mostly seafood, fish and meat and have them cooked for you for a small fee based on "per kilo" price similar to Manila's Dampa and Seaside buy-your-ingredients-and-we'll-cook-them-for-you paluto system.
Boracay's D'Talipapa public marketPrices of seafood and other items:
Tahong (mussels): P40/kilo
Talaba (oysters): P25/kilo
Sugpo (Lobsters): P750/kilo
Hipon (Prawns): P220/kilo
Alimango (Crabs): P380/kilo
Paluto (cooking charge) at Plato D'Boracay:
P100/kilo
(for comparison US$1=P41 and €1 = P66)
a kilogram of fresh lobsters at P750
talaba (oysters)
prawns with coconut milk and pineapple (tutubi wanted to add kamias but wasn't available at the market and substituted pineapple)
tahong (mussels)
mouthwatering pakwan (watermelon) at P20/kilo where you can have sliced at your restaurantOn Tutubi's last night in Boracay, he met a Bulgarian enjoying life in the island with his Chinese girlfriend (sick due to SCUBA diving lessons) and told him many Europeans, including Bulgarians, come to the Philippines for cheap seafood (Bulgaria doesn't have seafood even if they have access to the Black Sea). It seems only people allergic to seafood won't enjoy Talipapa.
Visiting and living on Boracay Island need not be expensive!
---
Tourist Traps and Tips particularly for Foreigners:
Ask a local to ask prices and buy for you. Asking vendors the price will cost you more. If you don't know anyone, linger around a particular vendor until a local inquires about the item you're interested in. That way, you will be quoted the local price and not a tourist's price tag.
How to get to Talipapa, Boracay Island:
From White Beach, you can just walk towards station 2 near La Carmela and/or Boracay Swiss Chalets until you see the signs pointing to D'Talipapa. Enter the narrow alley until you see souvenir shops and market about 50 meters from the beachfront.
D'Talipapa is just a short tricycle ride from Station 1, Diniwid Beach, Bulabog Beach or from any point in the island.
Related Posts:
Boracay Budget Travel Guide
Boracay: One of the World's Best Beaches
Bulabog Beach Kitesurfing/Kiteboarding, Windsurfing/Boardsailing
Technorati Tags: Boracay Restaurant, Seafood, Boracay D'Talipapa, lobsters, mussels, watermelon, Paradise Philippines
posted by tutubi philippines @ 9:26 PM,
, links to this post
