Trek to Tatlong Krus of Paete, Laguna (Three Crosses of Calvary Hill)
18 March 2012
Becoming quite popular these last few years due to development and the improvement of both the trail and service road leading to the park, Tatlong Krus of Paete are three crosses on Bundok ng Humarap, similar to the biblical Calvary Hill's Three Crosses.
It's history is tied with the neighboring town of Pakil, once part of Paete, and where stands a single cross on top of the hill. When Pakil decided to secede from Paete, the Paete towns folk decided to erect not one, but three crosses, on top of the hill fronting Paete and facing Laguna de Bay.
Tutubi should've posted this a long time ago, other bloggers not from paete did so a long time ago...
the three crosses taken about 6 years ago using Tutubi's then trusted Canon Ixus 30
the Tatlong Krus, circa 2007, now with concrete viewdeck colored red (of all colors, should've been green to make it nature like)
you can view the Eangle-shaped town of Paete with the shimmering Laguna de Bay on the background. If you can stay longer, watch out for fiery sunsets or occasional rainbows when it rains (it always rains in Paete even during the summer time)
Tutubi intends to trek up again to paete's "calvary hill" this coming Holy Week, where the place is mostly packed with visitors and picnicers and campers (who pitch tents for free accommodations). Lots of tourists spend the night there on Holy Thursday, Good Friday till Black Saturday. There's public toilets and water supply and it's safe too.
About fifteen minutes downward trek is the Paete's Talon (waterfalls that some enterprising individuals try to name Matabunka Falls)...it's a small waterfalls that is now trickling due to probably denuded watershed. Will try to find old pictures of this place or just re-take photos next time Tutubi takes a hike.
---
Tatlong Krus (Three Crosses)
Location: on top of Bundok ng Humarap, part of Sierra Madre mountain range
GPS coordinates: N14 21 53.8 E121 29 32.6
How to get there:
for a map of Tatlong Krus on OpenStreetMap (updated by Tutubi), please click here. You can see the foot trail (for trekking) or the service road for those with own vehicles)
Trekking: start your walk on J.P. Rizal , paete's main road, corner Cads Street or Acyatan. St. just follow the concrete steps with bamboo hand rails, you won't get lost. No entrance fees nor charges going there. you can also hire guides from Paete Tourism Office. Trek time is less than hour (of course, it depends on your pace and stamina) going up, mush less going down, level of difficulty: light and easy.
Driving Directions: you can actually drive to Tatlong Cruz via the road in Longos, Kalayaan near Exotikk Restaurant (landmark: Petron gas station). Just follow the road then turn left when you see the sign "road to talong krus) opposite Adelina's Peak. Should you find yourself in San Antonio, just go back. Travel time is about an hour.
Read more after the jump!
It's history is tied with the neighboring town of Pakil, once part of Paete, and where stands a single cross on top of the hill. When Pakil decided to secede from Paete, the Paete towns folk decided to erect not one, but three crosses, on top of the hill fronting Paete and facing Laguna de Bay.
Tutubi should've posted this a long time ago, other bloggers not from paete did so a long time ago...
the three crosses taken about 6 years ago using Tutubi's then trusted Canon Ixus 30
the Tatlong Krus, circa 2007, now with concrete viewdeck colored red (of all colors, should've been green to make it nature like)
you can view the Eangle-shaped town of Paete with the shimmering Laguna de Bay on the background. If you can stay longer, watch out for fiery sunsets or occasional rainbows when it rains (it always rains in Paete even during the summer time)Tutubi intends to trek up again to paete's "calvary hill" this coming Holy Week, where the place is mostly packed with visitors and picnicers and campers (who pitch tents for free accommodations). Lots of tourists spend the night there on Holy Thursday, Good Friday till Black Saturday. There's public toilets and water supply and it's safe too.
About fifteen minutes downward trek is the Paete's Talon (waterfalls that some enterprising individuals try to name Matabunka Falls)...it's a small waterfalls that is now trickling due to probably denuded watershed. Will try to find old pictures of this place or just re-take photos next time Tutubi takes a hike.
---
Tatlong Krus (Three Crosses)
Location: on top of Bundok ng Humarap, part of Sierra Madre mountain range
GPS coordinates: N14 21 53.8 E121 29 32.6
How to get there:
for a map of Tatlong Krus on OpenStreetMap (updated by Tutubi), please click here. You can see the foot trail (for trekking) or the service road for those with own vehicles)
Trekking: start your walk on J.P. Rizal , paete's main road, corner Cads Street or Acyatan. St. just follow the concrete steps with bamboo hand rails, you won't get lost. No entrance fees nor charges going there. you can also hire guides from Paete Tourism Office. Trek time is less than hour (of course, it depends on your pace and stamina) going up, mush less going down, level of difficulty: light and easy.
Driving Directions: you can actually drive to Tatlong Cruz via the road in Longos, Kalayaan near Exotikk Restaurant (landmark: Petron gas station). Just follow the road then turn left when you see the sign "road to talong krus) opposite Adelina's Peak. Should you find yourself in San Antonio, just go back. Travel time is about an hour.
Labels: Calabarzon, Laguna, Paete, Pilgrimage Sites, Southern Tagalog, Trekking
posted by backpacking philippines @ 9:06 PM,
, links to this post
Paete's Exotic Fruit = Chico-Mamei (Mexico)/Sapote/Zapote de Carne/Sapodilla
14 March 2012
A fruit tree that's so reminiscent of Tutubi's childhood (besides the lanzones, santol, aratilis and guava) for his creek-side, childhood home has one tall chico-mamei tree that grew beside a caimito (star apple), indian mango, guyabano, guava and putat trees.
Locally called mami in Paete, the mami tree of Tutubi's childood is no longer there but Tutubi still finds the fruits being sold at Paete Public Market for P20 to P30 a piece.
A few years ago, his curious mind asked Google on the origins and uses of the fruit and tree and Google was able to answer, albeit after several attempts and keywords, that gave away the true name of the fruit, called chico-mamei in Mexico, plus medicinal uses of the chico-mamei leaves and bark.
the chico-mamei fruits with indian mangoes to give you an idea of its size plus its resemblance to chico fruits, thus the name
the chico-mamei fruit showing the big seed and the dark orange flesh
How does chico-mamei tastes like? It's a cross between papaya and chico and chesa.
Tutubi's mother, endearing called Sugar, loves chico-mamei even if it's a forbidden fruit for diabetics like her.
Next time you're in Paete public market, do ask around for this fruit to sample a native American fruit exported from Mexico by the Spaniards via the Galleon trade.
Read more after the jump!
Locally called mami in Paete, the mami tree of Tutubi's childood is no longer there but Tutubi still finds the fruits being sold at Paete Public Market for P20 to P30 a piece.
A few years ago, his curious mind asked Google on the origins and uses of the fruit and tree and Google was able to answer, albeit after several attempts and keywords, that gave away the true name of the fruit, called chico-mamei in Mexico, plus medicinal uses of the chico-mamei leaves and bark.
the chico-mamei fruits with indian mangoes to give you an idea of its size plus its resemblance to chico fruits, thus the name
the chico-mamei fruit showing the big seed and the dark orange fleshHow does chico-mamei tastes like? It's a cross between papaya and chico and chesa.
Tutubi's mother, endearing called Sugar, loves chico-mamei even if it's a forbidden fruit for diabetics like her.
Next time you're in Paete public market, do ask around for this fruit to sample a native American fruit exported from Mexico by the Spaniards via the Galleon trade.
Labels: Fruits
posted by backpacking philippines @ 9:02 PM,
, links to this post
Paseo Rizal (Morong): Restaurant, Art Gallery, Music Bar
13 March 2012
Whenever Tutubi drives by Manila East Road to and from his hometown Paete, he takes the chance to look around "forest and the trees" for interesting places and restaurants along the way. One of these is the large Paseo Rizal sign in Morong town just before you reach the junction of the road that leads to Teresa, Rizal.
On one occasion, he had the sudden urge to turn to the service road leading to the establishment to check out the place, described in its official website as a place for Art, Cuisine and Music.
Welcome to Paseo Rizal:
Paseo Rizal building facade sports a bas-relief of everyday life in Rizal province (no mention of the Ynares name though, very good)
the restaurant cum art gallery cum music bar is surrounded by green landscaped garden, and enveloped by green ricefields where you also hear chirping of birds, quite foreign to most Manila denizens
Paseo Rizal art gallery showcases art works of local artists of Rizal
Tutubi merely ordered sinigang na hipon, price of P200, good for three persons. The sinigang is actually good, with a soup slightly thick and soured not by tamarind nor guava but perhaps a different souring agent or herb unknown to Tutubi nor the server. No time to ask the cook on what it is.
Paseo Rizal caught Tutubi's fancy that there's none like it in his hometown Paete. The nearest one is actually Kape Kesada owned by Dr. Nilo Valdecatos, a good friend of Tutubi.
Numerous concerts were already held at Paseo Rizal's music bar/concert venue including Alamid, Heber Bartolome, The Boyfriends, Gary Granada, Rivermaya, Barbie Almalbis, Paolo Santos, Lolita Carbon, Typecast and Queso, Color it Red, Joey Ayala, Noel Cabangon, Jimmy Bondoc, Paolo Santos, that gives you an idea that it's a place that promote original Filipino artists, not showbands nor sleazy girlie acts, clad in skimpy outfits that raise testosterone levels.
Tutubi recommends people to drop by Paseo Rizal to partake of non-fastfood fare, relax in the bucolic setting of the art gallery, restaurant and music bar and possibly unwind when a band is playing in the arts venue called Paseo Rizal.
---
Map of Paseo Rizal on OpenStreetMap available here (updated by Tutubi, please update the map to make OSM the best free online map that can also be downloaded in GPS navigators)
Paseo Rizal: Art, Cuisine, Music
Ramos Boulevard, Manila East Road,
Maybancal, Morong, Rizal
Coordinates: N14 31 45.6 E121 14 39.4
For reservations & inquiries, please contact:
Adrian Quijano
Mobile: 09178292464
Telephone Number: 9864679
Email: paseorizal2007@yahoo.com
Related Posts on Rizal Province:
Where to Eat in Rizal
Read more after the jump!
On one occasion, he had the sudden urge to turn to the service road leading to the establishment to check out the place, described in its official website as a place for Art, Cuisine and Music.
Welcome to Paseo Rizal:
Paseo Rizal building facade sports a bas-relief of everyday life in Rizal province (no mention of the Ynares name though, very good)
the restaurant cum art gallery cum music bar is surrounded by green landscaped garden, and enveloped by green ricefields where you also hear chirping of birds, quite foreign to most Manila denizens
Paseo Rizal art gallery showcases art works of local artists of Rizal
Tutubi merely ordered sinigang na hipon, price of P200, good for three persons. The sinigang is actually good, with a soup slightly thick and soured not by tamarind nor guava but perhaps a different souring agent or herb unknown to Tutubi nor the server. No time to ask the cook on what it is.Paseo Rizal caught Tutubi's fancy that there's none like it in his hometown Paete. The nearest one is actually Kape Kesada owned by Dr. Nilo Valdecatos, a good friend of Tutubi.
Numerous concerts were already held at Paseo Rizal's music bar/concert venue including Alamid, Heber Bartolome, The Boyfriends, Gary Granada, Rivermaya, Barbie Almalbis, Paolo Santos, Lolita Carbon, Typecast and Queso, Color it Red, Joey Ayala, Noel Cabangon, Jimmy Bondoc, Paolo Santos, that gives you an idea that it's a place that promote original Filipino artists, not showbands nor sleazy girlie acts, clad in skimpy outfits that raise testosterone levels.
Tutubi recommends people to drop by Paseo Rizal to partake of non-fastfood fare, relax in the bucolic setting of the art gallery, restaurant and music bar and possibly unwind when a band is playing in the arts venue called Paseo Rizal.
---
Map of Paseo Rizal on OpenStreetMap available here (updated by Tutubi, please update the map to make OSM the best free online map that can also be downloaded in GPS navigators)
Paseo Rizal: Art, Cuisine, Music
Ramos Boulevard, Manila East Road,
Maybancal, Morong, Rizal
Coordinates: N14 31 45.6 E121 14 39.4
For reservations & inquiries, please contact:
Adrian Quijano
Mobile: 09178292464
Telephone Number: 9864679
Email: paseorizal2007@yahoo.com
Related Posts on Rizal Province:
Where to Eat in Rizal
Labels: Rizal Restaurants
posted by backpacking philippines @ 8:07 PM,
, links to this post
Stopovers: Where to Eat in Rizal: Restaurants, Eateries, Food Trip
In his regular drive home from Quezon City to Paete, laguna, Tutubi's on the lookout for nice and cozy restaurants, not the usual fastfood places but sometimes gives in if he needs a quick drive-through at Jollibee or McDonalds. herewith is his personal list of recommended restaurants in Rizal province.
This list is by no means complete, updates, comments and recommendations from readers are welcome, as always.
Restaurants in Cainta, Rizal
Aling Kika's Kakanin (take out only, pasalubong)
Meidolls Cafe
2/F Saunterfield Building, Ortigas Avenue Extension
Remarks: anime and cosplay-themed restaurant where cute waitresses dressed as meidolls (Tokyo Maids)
Coordinates: 14°35'0"N 121°7'24"E
Restaurants in Taytay, Rizal
Bahay Kawayan
Poblacion, Taytay
Coordinates: 14°33'13"N 121°8'19"E
Restaurants in Angono, Rizal
Balaw-balaw Restaurant
Address: Dona Aurora near corner Manila East Road
Specialties: exotic food e.g. adobong uok
Coordinates: N14 31 39.3 E121 09 27.3
Restaurants in Antipolo City, Rizal
Bulakena Bulalohan
Near Villa Sampaguita Resort on the zigzag road
CH2 restaurant
Crescent Moon Cafe
King Bee
Address: Marcos Highway near corner Sumulong (near Masinag)
Remarks: Chinese restaurant, chicken feet and soy chicken
Coordinates: 14°37'29"N 121°7'22"E
Price range: Frugal
Vieux Chalet
Remarks: Swiss-themed restaurant high up the mountains of Antipolo
N14 35 57.3 E121 09 53.4
Menu: Swiss Cuisine, Italian, European
Price range: mid-end to high
Remarks: Romantic, overlooking, one of Tutubi's favorites
Laya
Remarks: reservation only weekend buffet
Price: PhP750.00
Telephone Number:
Mang Vic's Bulalohan
Marcos Highway, Boso-boso, Antipolo
Reamrks: favorite stop-over of bikers for, what else, steaming hot bulalo
Coordinates: 14°37'33"N 121°14'38"E
Price: frugal foodie's haven
Restaurants in Teresa, Rizal
Restaurants in Binangonan, Rizal
Michael's Restaurant
Address: Macamot, Binangonan, Rizal
Remarks: cheap and simple lutong-bahay dishes, almost carinderia prices
Coordinates: 14°28'34"N 121°11'47"E
Price: frugal foodie
Restaurants in Baras, Rizal
Restaurants in Morong, Rizal
Paseo Rizal (Art Music Cuisine)
Remarks: an events venue where concerts of local bands/artists are regularly scheduled
Coordinates: 14°31'44"N 121°14'39"E
Rating: recommended
Restaurants in Tanay, Rizal
Fisherman's Wharf (Formerly Tabing Dagat Restaurant)
Barangay San Isidro, Tanay, Rizal (near Parola)
Halamanan Restaurant
Address: Manila East Road near corner Sampaloc Road
Coordinates: 14°30'4"N 121°17'41"E
Kamalig Restaurant & Banquet Hall
Manila East Road, Barangay Tandang Kutyo, Tanay Town Proper
Coordinates: 14°30'23"N 121°17'20"E
Basnigan Restaurant
Sampaloc Road, Plaza Aldea, Tanay, Rizal
Budget: around P200/person
Restaurants in Pililla, Rizal
Bulawan Floating Restaurant
Native restaurant with huts and fishpond where you can catch fish (tilapia P100/kilo and catfish P80/kilo, double the price if you want them cooked for you, paluto style)
Location: beside Flying V gasoline station and opposite Villa Lorenza Resort near the junction of the zigzag road to Laguna
Coordinates: 14°28'1"N 121°19'21"E
Kawayan Farm Restaurant
Kilometer 64 Manila East Road (on the zigzag part, just near kilometer 63 marker)
Barangay Halayhayin, Pililla, Rizal
COmments: Nice Bamboo farm turned restaurant, some native huts with a view of Laguna Lake
Price: quite expensive. Tapsilog costs PhP100+,
Restaurants in Jala-Jala, Rizal
Restaurants in San Mateo, Rizal
Restaurants in Rodriguez, Rizal (Montalban)
Please call the published contact numbers for inquiries, reservations, promos, directions, how to get there options, sample menu prices, events (weddings, baptisms, parties et al) or visit their official website, if available. Tutubi is not in any way affiliated with these restaurants and did not receive any thing, in cash, kind nor freebies, to be included in this list.
To be Updated regularly, so stay tuned :P
Read more after the jump!
This list is by no means complete, updates, comments and recommendations from readers are welcome, as always.
Restaurants in Cainta, Rizal
Aling Kika's Kakanin (take out only, pasalubong)
Meidolls Cafe
2/F Saunterfield Building, Ortigas Avenue Extension
Remarks: anime and cosplay-themed restaurant where cute waitresses dressed as meidolls (Tokyo Maids)
Coordinates: 14°35'0"N 121°7'24"E
Restaurants in Taytay, Rizal
Bahay Kawayan
Poblacion, Taytay
Coordinates: 14°33'13"N 121°8'19"E
Restaurants in Angono, Rizal
Balaw-balaw Restaurant
Address: Dona Aurora near corner Manila East Road
Specialties: exotic food e.g. adobong uok
Coordinates: N14 31 39.3 E121 09 27.3
Restaurants in Antipolo City, Rizal
Bulakena Bulalohan
Near Villa Sampaguita Resort on the zigzag road
CH2 restaurant
Crescent Moon Cafe
King Bee
Address: Marcos Highway near corner Sumulong (near Masinag)
Remarks: Chinese restaurant, chicken feet and soy chicken
Coordinates: 14°37'29"N 121°7'22"E
Price range: Frugal
Vieux Chalet
Remarks: Swiss-themed restaurant high up the mountains of Antipolo
N14 35 57.3 E121 09 53.4
Menu: Swiss Cuisine, Italian, European
Price range: mid-end to high
Remarks: Romantic, overlooking, one of Tutubi's favorites
Laya
Remarks: reservation only weekend buffet
Price: PhP750.00
Telephone Number:
Mang Vic's Bulalohan
Marcos Highway, Boso-boso, Antipolo
Reamrks: favorite stop-over of bikers for, what else, steaming hot bulalo
Coordinates: 14°37'33"N 121°14'38"E
Price: frugal foodie's haven
Restaurants in Teresa, Rizal
Restaurants in Binangonan, Rizal
Michael's Restaurant
Address: Macamot, Binangonan, Rizal
Remarks: cheap and simple lutong-bahay dishes, almost carinderia prices
Coordinates: 14°28'34"N 121°11'47"E
Price: frugal foodie
Restaurants in Baras, Rizal
Restaurants in Morong, Rizal
Paseo Rizal (Art Music Cuisine)
Remarks: an events venue where concerts of local bands/artists are regularly scheduled
Coordinates: 14°31'44"N 121°14'39"E
Rating: recommended
Restaurants in Tanay, Rizal
Fisherman's Wharf (Formerly Tabing Dagat Restaurant)
Barangay San Isidro, Tanay, Rizal (near Parola)
Halamanan Restaurant
Address: Manila East Road near corner Sampaloc Road
Coordinates: 14°30'4"N 121°17'41"E
Kamalig Restaurant & Banquet Hall
Manila East Road, Barangay Tandang Kutyo, Tanay Town Proper
Coordinates: 14°30'23"N 121°17'20"E
Basnigan Restaurant
Sampaloc Road, Plaza Aldea, Tanay, Rizal
Budget: around P200/person
Restaurants in Pililla, Rizal
Bulawan Floating Restaurant
Native restaurant with huts and fishpond where you can catch fish (tilapia P100/kilo and catfish P80/kilo, double the price if you want them cooked for you, paluto style)
Location: beside Flying V gasoline station and opposite Villa Lorenza Resort near the junction of the zigzag road to Laguna
Coordinates: 14°28'1"N 121°19'21"E
Kawayan Farm Restaurant
Kilometer 64 Manila East Road (on the zigzag part, just near kilometer 63 marker)
Barangay Halayhayin, Pililla, Rizal
COmments: Nice Bamboo farm turned restaurant, some native huts with a view of Laguna Lake
Price: quite expensive. Tapsilog costs PhP100+,
Restaurants in Jala-Jala, Rizal
Restaurants in San Mateo, Rizal
Restaurants in Rodriguez, Rizal (Montalban)
Please call the published contact numbers for inquiries, reservations, promos, directions, how to get there options, sample menu prices, events (weddings, baptisms, parties et al) or visit their official website, if available. Tutubi is not in any way affiliated with these restaurants and did not receive any thing, in cash, kind nor freebies, to be included in this list.
To be Updated regularly, so stay tuned :P
Labels: Calabarzon, Rizal, Rizal Restaurants
posted by backpacking philippines @ 3:58 PM,
, links to this post
Quezon City: Circle of Fun Entrance Fee, Rides, Rates, Schedule
12 March 2012
Quezon Memorial Circle, in Tutubi's home city, is cool these last few months! In addition to the regular jogs around the Quezon Monument and Museum, the dance classes, Sunday mass at 7am, stalls selling clothes, rows of restaurants, Muslim worship during Islamic holidays (e.g. Eid Al-Fitr, end of Ramadan), Circle of Joy children's playground, Pedal and Paddle boat rides, bicycle rentals and bike tracks, dancing musical fountain, hassle-free, ample parking, zipline, and other activities and crowds especially on weekends.
Then there's Circle of Fun, a theme park for families to enjoy bonding time!
the entrance gate of Circle of Fun, Tutubi was "caught" by "old school" security guards taking this picture but he just ignored them and walked away
Tutubi was not able to get the information as he was irked by the "old school" security guards for not allowing picture taking of the theme park
even if he's just using an iPhone. Such old school mindset in this age of information. Tutubi has yet to actually enter Circle of Fun, though one of these days he will.
Circle of Fun Information:
Circle of Fun Entrance fee: PhP20.00
Senior Citizens/Children: PhP10.00
Children below 3 feet: free
Operating Hour Schedules: Tuesdays to Friday: 4pm to 10pm
Weekend schedules: 10am to 10pm
Monday: closed, except if it's a holiday
Prices/Rates for Rides: varies, range from PhP30.00 to PhP50.00
Rides include boat rides, roller coaster (this is small, not the thriller type that can really turn your gut upside down)
Telephone Number/Contact Information: TBD
Official website/email address: TBD
At one time, Tutubi saw a Holcim family day celebration at Circle of Fun on a saturday morning (or was it Sunday?). Please try to get in touch with Circle of Fun directly
by calling their published contact number for party inquiries, group tours, reservations and other information.
How to get there:
Commute: Buses on EDSA going to Fairview (and jeepneys from Manila) pass by Quezon Memorial Circle and Elliptical Road, alight in front of Quezon City Hall cross Elliptical road using the pedestrian underpass. You may also take MRT Quezon Avenue station then transfer to jeepneys going to Philcoa/Fairview/UP.
Driving directions to Quezon Memorial Circle: from Makati, easiest is via EDSA Cubao, take "ilalim" of EDSA/Kamuning flyover, turn right to East Avenue, enter Elliptical road and look for the park entrances slowly going into the inner lanes, one of them is in front of East Avenue and the other is right across Commonwealth Avenue. (P15.00 single entry parking fee for cars)
Read more after the jump!
Then there's Circle of Fun, a theme park for families to enjoy bonding time!
the entrance gate of Circle of Fun, Tutubi was "caught" by "old school" security guards taking this picture but he just ignored them and walked awayTutubi was not able to get the information as he was irked by the "old school" security guards for not allowing picture taking of the theme park
even if he's just using an iPhone. Such old school mindset in this age of information. Tutubi has yet to actually enter Circle of Fun, though one of these days he will.
Circle of Fun Information:
Circle of Fun Entrance fee: PhP20.00
Senior Citizens/Children: PhP10.00
Children below 3 feet: free
Operating Hour Schedules: Tuesdays to Friday: 4pm to 10pm
Weekend schedules: 10am to 10pm
Monday: closed, except if it's a holiday
Prices/Rates for Rides: varies, range from PhP30.00 to PhP50.00
Rides include boat rides, roller coaster (this is small, not the thriller type that can really turn your gut upside down)
Telephone Number/Contact Information: TBD
Official website/email address: TBD
At one time, Tutubi saw a Holcim family day celebration at Circle of Fun on a saturday morning (or was it Sunday?). Please try to get in touch with Circle of Fun directly
by calling their published contact number for party inquiries, group tours, reservations and other information.
How to get there:
Commute: Buses on EDSA going to Fairview (and jeepneys from Manila) pass by Quezon Memorial Circle and Elliptical Road, alight in front of Quezon City Hall cross Elliptical road using the pedestrian underpass. You may also take MRT Quezon Avenue station then transfer to jeepneys going to Philcoa/Fairview/UP.
Driving directions to Quezon Memorial Circle: from Makati, easiest is via EDSA Cubao, take "ilalim" of EDSA/Kamuning flyover, turn right to East Avenue, enter Elliptical road and look for the park entrances slowly going into the inner lanes, one of them is in front of East Avenue and the other is right across Commonwealth Avenue. (P15.00 single entry parking fee for cars)
Labels: Metro Manila, Quezon City, Theme Parks
posted by backpacking philippines @ 8:49 PM,
, links to this post
A Trip to Lerma's Halo-halo Pakil, Laguna
10 March 2012
At a time when Tutubi's favorite halo-halo joint in Paete closed shop, he instead drove to a halo-halo joint frequented by locals of Pakil and those from neighboring Pangil and Paete towns serving simple yet creamy version of halo-halo in Pakil, featuring typical halo-halo in the fourth district of Laguna featuring well-done beans as ingredients of the basic halo-halo recipe.
Lerma's Halo-halo serving
homey ambiance of Lerma's, it's actually a road-side home turned restaurant
Lerma's Halo-halo
Address: Tavera St., almost in front of Pakil General Hospital (Gen. Juan Cailles Memorial Hospital), less than a kilometer from Pakil Church
GPS Coordinates: N14 23 08.7 E121 28 39.5
Map of Pakil on OpenStreetMap (updated by Tutubi, if you're a Pakil local, please try to update the map)
Price: PhP50.00/serving
Sahog/Ingredients: gulaman, beans, leche flan, ube, banana et al
Notes: Tutubi also ordered pancit palabok but it was too salty due to generous (and excessive amounts of ground pork chicharon/dried fish) and too "saucy" (drenched in sauce)
There also is the famous Aling Taleng's Halo-halo in Pagsanjan but reports from Tutubi's sister plus a friend claim it's not worth it. Tutubi will try it also
just to be sure but knowing the standards of his sister and friend in halo-halo, the simple test is usually in creaminess. Halo-halo making involves art, you don't just mix ingredients in a bowl, put shaved ice and milk on it. Chowking's halo-halo used to be like it, dull and un-creamy, even if boasting of many ingredients, but somehow improved these days.
Read more after the jump!
Lerma's Halo-halo serving
homey ambiance of Lerma's, it's actually a road-side home turned restaurantLerma's Halo-halo
Address: Tavera St., almost in front of Pakil General Hospital (Gen. Juan Cailles Memorial Hospital), less than a kilometer from Pakil Church
GPS Coordinates: N14 23 08.7 E121 28 39.5
Map of Pakil on OpenStreetMap (updated by Tutubi, if you're a Pakil local, please try to update the map)
Price: PhP50.00/serving
Sahog/Ingredients: gulaman, beans, leche flan, ube, banana et al
Notes: Tutubi also ordered pancit palabok but it was too salty due to generous (and excessive amounts of ground pork chicharon/dried fish) and too "saucy" (drenched in sauce)
There also is the famous Aling Taleng's Halo-halo in Pagsanjan but reports from Tutubi's sister plus a friend claim it's not worth it. Tutubi will try it also
just to be sure but knowing the standards of his sister and friend in halo-halo, the simple test is usually in creaminess. Halo-halo making involves art, you don't just mix ingredients in a bowl, put shaved ice and milk on it. Chowking's halo-halo used to be like it, dull and un-creamy, even if boasting of many ingredients, but somehow improved these days.
Labels: Food Trips, Laguna Restaurants
posted by backpacking philippines @ 9:00 PM,
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am | pm Lodge: Cheap "Hotel" in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
09 March 2012
In a quite recent visit to Solano, Nueva Vizcaya, Tutubi was billeted at this small yet cozy lodge for merely PhP500.00 night with amenties your get from bigger and more expensive hotels
am | pl Lodge has:
free wi-fi Internet connection
a safe to store all your belongings (such a small place yet they have this)
cable tv
hot and cold shower
cozy bed (Tutubi's basic requirement)
key-card activated power (typical of big hotels)
parking space
security guard
air-conditioning (they also have fan rooms at PhP350.00/night)
Tutubi's room for a night in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya, this one's at the annex
As always, Tutubi is advertising this not because he stayed there for free nor did he get any freebie in return.
---
am | pm Lodge Main
88 J.P. Rizal Avenue
Barangay Roxas, Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
+63.917.325.8658
Telephone Number: +63.78.326.5977; +63.78.326.6208
am | pm Lodge Annex
Espino Street corner Bonifacio Street
Barangay Roxas, Solano Nueva Vizcaya 3709
Contact Number: +63.78.326.6365; +63.78.326.7277
no official website at the moment, please contact them directly for updated room rates, promos and reservations.
Read more after the jump!
am | pl Lodge has:
free wi-fi Internet connection
a safe to store all your belongings (such a small place yet they have this)
cable tv
hot and cold shower
cozy bed (Tutubi's basic requirement)
key-card activated power (typical of big hotels)
parking space
security guard
air-conditioning (they also have fan rooms at PhP350.00/night)
Tutubi's room for a night in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya, this one's at the annexAs always, Tutubi is advertising this not because he stayed there for free nor did he get any freebie in return.
---
am | pm Lodge Main
88 J.P. Rizal Avenue
Barangay Roxas, Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
+63.917.325.8658
Telephone Number: +63.78.326.5977; +63.78.326.6208
am | pm Lodge Annex
Espino Street corner Bonifacio Street
Barangay Roxas, Solano Nueva Vizcaya 3709
Contact Number: +63.78.326.6365; +63.78.326.7277
no official website at the moment, please contact them directly for updated room rates, promos and reservations.
posted by backpacking philippines @ 8:45 PM,
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AirAsia Promo Fare to Davao and Kalibo (Boracay)
08 March 2012
"The more, the many-er," as the "saying" goes, AirAsia Philippines, a few weeks after getting the green light to operate domestic flights, will soon fly from Clark Airport to Davao City and Kalibo (Boracay alternative gateway).
From Diosdado Macapagal International Airport in Clark, Pampanga, AirAsia will start flying on March 28, 2012.
Clark to Kalibo fare: PhP599 “all in” fare
Clark to Davao fare: PhP799
Just hope there really are no surcharges nor hidden charges. Giving Cebu pacific, AirPhil Express, PAL, ZestAir and other airlines more competition that should result to lower fares and better service.
Related Posts:
How to Get to Clark Airport
Airport Terminal Fees
Read more after the jump!
From Diosdado Macapagal International Airport in Clark, Pampanga, AirAsia will start flying on March 28, 2012.
Clark to Kalibo fare: PhP599 “all in” fare
Clark to Davao fare: PhP799
Just hope there really are no surcharges nor hidden charges. Giving Cebu pacific, AirPhil Express, PAL, ZestAir and other airlines more competition that should result to lower fares and better service.
Related Posts:
How to Get to Clark Airport
Airport Terminal Fees
Labels: AirAsia
posted by backpacking philippines @ 9:36 PM,
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The Old Cemetery and Ermita Ruins in Dimiao, Bohol
01 March 2012
Tutubi stumbled on these historical ruins of an old chapel and cemetery, with honeycomb tombs similar to those in Paco Cemetery, just beside Dimiao Church called the Ruins of Ermita, while he was taking pictures of the old church and the nearby Dimiao Tourism Office.
the ruins of ermita with the walls of the chapel lined with the honeycomb tombs
For the history of Ermita ruins, here's what a marker at the site states:
"Ermita is a Spanish term for a small church or chapel in a lonely place.
In a study conducted by a team from the National Museum entitled Archaelogical
Exposition of the 18th Century structure, Ermita Ruins is an 18th century structure which has the closest resemblance to Paco Cemetery, a historical site in Paco, Manila. Built in 1800 until 1815 by Fr. Enrique de Santo de Villanueva, it was constructed during the Spanish colonial period that has been abandoned and erected by a population that was willing to work for the church and the Ermita.
It has honeycombed-arranged tombs or sepulchers that are unique and so far, the only one found in the the Philippines, which make up the walls of the Ermita.
The researchers, were surprised why no graves were found in the tombs. To them, perhaps, it was constructed not only as a chapel but also as a cemetery. But even before it was completed, it could be possible that a big catastrophic event occured, an epidemic perhaps =, which explains the mass burial as evidenced by skeletons excavaed from the ground, not properly arranged but just laid on top of the others.
On the other hand, researchers consider the idea that perhaps, the absence of bones in the hndreds of small niches (akthough there were few sets of bones recovered and transferred to the municipal cemetery) explained byt the clousre of the cemetery in 1844 by Fr. Manuel Carususan; its nearness to the church was deemed unhealthy.
The preservation of the ERMITA RUINS is a joint project of the Diocese of Tagbilaran, the St. Nicholas paarish and local government of Dimiao. The preservation is in accordance with the policies of the National Heritage (sic) Institute (NHI) to retain the antiquity of the place and preserve its natural beauty and attraction."
Read more after the jump!
the ruins of ermita with the walls of the chapel lined with the honeycomb tombsFor the history of Ermita ruins, here's what a marker at the site states:
"Ermita is a Spanish term for a small church or chapel in a lonely place.
In a study conducted by a team from the National Museum entitled Archaelogical
Exposition of the 18th Century structure, Ermita Ruins is an 18th century structure which has the closest resemblance to Paco Cemetery, a historical site in Paco, Manila. Built in 1800 until 1815 by Fr. Enrique de Santo de Villanueva, it was constructed during the Spanish colonial period that has been abandoned and erected by a population that was willing to work for the church and the Ermita.
It has honeycombed-arranged tombs or sepulchers that are unique and so far, the only one found in the the Philippines, which make up the walls of the Ermita.
The researchers, were surprised why no graves were found in the tombs. To them, perhaps, it was constructed not only as a chapel but also as a cemetery. But even before it was completed, it could be possible that a big catastrophic event occured, an epidemic perhaps =, which explains the mass burial as evidenced by skeletons excavaed from the ground, not properly arranged but just laid on top of the others.
On the other hand, researchers consider the idea that perhaps, the absence of bones in the hndreds of small niches (akthough there were few sets of bones recovered and transferred to the municipal cemetery) explained byt the clousre of the cemetery in 1844 by Fr. Manuel Carususan; its nearness to the church was deemed unhealthy.
The preservation of the ERMITA RUINS is a joint project of the Diocese of Tagbilaran, the St. Nicholas paarish and local government of Dimiao. The preservation is in accordance with the policies of the National Heritage (sic) Institute (NHI) to retain the antiquity of the place and preserve its natural beauty and attraction."
Labels: Bohol, Cemeteries, Central Visayas
posted by backpacking philippines @ 11:23 PM,
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Bohol: Dimiao Church (San Nicolas Tolentino Parish)
29 February 2012
A quick tour of Dimiao Church, dedicated to San Nicolas Tolentino, is an old church with an uncertain history but the church was declared by National Museum as a National Cultural Treasure in 2011.
the picture-perfect facade of dimiao church taken late afternoon (the ideal time, actually if not early mornings)
Read more after the jump!
the picture-perfect facade of dimiao church taken late afternoon (the ideal time, actually if not early mornings)
Labels: Bohol, Central Visayas, Churches, Visita Iglesia
posted by backpacking philippines @ 9:28 PM,
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Bohol: Dauis Church (Our Lady of the Assumption)
27 February 2012
An old stone church in Panglao Island, just a few minutes from Tagbilaran Airport, sporting a neo-gothic and neo-classical architecture on the facade an where devotees and faithful flock for a claimed miraculous water from a well inside the church, in front of the altar.
Dauis Church history: according to the NHI marker in front of the church, the current stone church began construction in 1863 and finished in 1879, declared a national historical treasure in 2009.
Read more after the jump!
Dauis Church history: according to the NHI marker in front of the church, the current stone church began construction in 1863 and finished in 1879, declared a national historical treasure in 2009.
Labels: Bohol, Central Visayas, Churches, Visita Iglesia
posted by backpacking philippines @ 9:23 PM,
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Loboc-Loay River Cruise and Floating Restaurant in Bohol
24 February 2012
A lesser-known River Cruise on Loboc River in Loay town of Bohol with starting point near the Loay Bridge. It features the catamaran-style floating restaurant, using two single-hull bancas supporting the weight of the restaurant, using a diesel engine, where guests partake buffet lunch (or dinner) while being serenaded by musicians.
the Rio Verde I Floating Restaurant cruising the Loay part of Loboc River
buffet table being prepared with the usual seafood on the restaurant menu
a family on a native boat with the nipa palm-fringed river
Loay River cruise takes about an hour with a stop-over at an "authetic" Ati Tribe of aborigines upstream (more on this in a future post).
Loboc-Loay River Cruise Rate: PhP350.00/person
Trip Schedules: around lunch time usually 11am with actual boat departures depending on tourist arrivals
Related Bohol Posts:
Tagbilaran Airport
Bohol Van Rental rates
Bohol Beach Resorts
Loboc River Cruise
Read more after the jump!
the Rio Verde I Floating Restaurant cruising the Loay part of Loboc River
buffet table being prepared with the usual seafood on the restaurant menu
a family on a native boat with the nipa palm-fringed riverLoay River cruise takes about an hour with a stop-over at an "authetic" Ati Tribe of aborigines upstream (more on this in a future post).
Loboc-Loay River Cruise Rate: PhP350.00/person
Trip Schedules: around lunch time usually 11am with actual boat departures depending on tourist arrivals
Related Bohol Posts:
Tagbilaran Airport
Bohol Van Rental rates
Bohol Beach Resorts
Loboc River Cruise
Labels: Bohol, Central Visayas
posted by backpacking philippines @ 10:26 PM,
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Bohol: Baclayon Church and Museum
13 February 2012
Tutubi visited, for the second time, the old church of Baclayon, Bohol and again failed to enter the nearby Baclayon Museum. He just settled with taking a few pictures of the facade.
Not much has changed with the old stone church, there are now only more houses there, particularly along the shoreline, unlike the first time he went there in 2003.
Baclayon Church history, with the historical marker installed by the National Historical Institute (NHI), now National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP)
Constructed in 1727 (thus the claim of some Boholanos that it's the oldest stone church in the Philippines is false) and made of coral stones, using neo-classical architecture. Recognized as national historical treasure in 1994
people near church pointed to this image on the wall and buttress as that of Padre Pio. Seems there was a fire that imposed this image there
Baclayon Museum hours:
Monday to Saturday 8:45am to 11:45am; 1:30pm to 4:45pm
Sunday 9:30am to 11:45am, 1:30pm to 4:15pm
Museum Entrance Fee: PhP50.00
Bohol Travel Tip: the wharf in front of Baclayon Church is where you can catch boats that can take you to Pamalican Island (famous for dolphin wathching and the Punta Cruz Watchtower, at a cheap price, instead of renting your own boat that can set you back not less than PhP1000.00)
Read more after the jump!
Not much has changed with the old stone church, there are now only more houses there, particularly along the shoreline, unlike the first time he went there in 2003.
Baclayon Church history, with the historical marker installed by the National Historical Institute (NHI), now National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP)Constructed in 1727 (thus the claim of some Boholanos that it's the oldest stone church in the Philippines is false) and made of coral stones, using neo-classical architecture. Recognized as national historical treasure in 1994
people near church pointed to this image on the wall and buttress as that of Padre Pio. Seems there was a fire that imposed this image thereBaclayon Museum hours:
Monday to Saturday 8:45am to 11:45am; 1:30pm to 4:45pm
Sunday 9:30am to 11:45am, 1:30pm to 4:15pm
Museum Entrance Fee: PhP50.00
Bohol Travel Tip: the wharf in front of Baclayon Church is where you can catch boats that can take you to Pamalican Island (famous for dolphin wathching and the Punta Cruz Watchtower, at a cheap price, instead of renting your own boat that can set you back not less than PhP1000.00)
Labels: Bohol, Central Visayas, Churches, Visita Iglesia
posted by backpacking philippines @ 10:45 PM,
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Zipline at Quezon City Memorial Circle
12 February 2012
Quezon Memorial Circle used to be a scary place at night and just a jogger's place in the morning but lately there's been many improvements and added attractions like Paddle and Pedal (boat rides), Circle of Joy children's playground, Circle of Fun (ala carnival), various restaurants, bike rentals, tiangge stalls and there's this adventure: the zipline
there are now at least three ziplines in QC, the first one is at the La Mesa Ecopark, then another one at Circulo Verde in Libis, Quezon City and now this new attraction at Quezon City Circle.
Note that Tutubi has yet to try the zipline, height is about 20 meters, length is about 100 meters. safety? can't comment too so no reviews for now
Quezon City Memorial Circle Zipline Rates:
One way: PhP100.00
Two way: PhP150.00
Open daily from 8am to 9pm
no entrance fee at Quezon Memorial Circle
plenty of car parking spaces for PhP15 (cars/vans)
For an online map of Quezon Memorial Circle, click here. For directions and information on how to get there, click the link about if below.
Related Posts on Quezon City:
Quezon City Hall
Quezon Circle Monument
Read more after the jump!
there are now at least three ziplines in QC, the first one is at the La Mesa Ecopark, then another one at Circulo Verde in Libis, Quezon City and now this new attraction at Quezon City Circle.
Note that Tutubi has yet to try the zipline, height is about 20 meters, length is about 100 meters. safety? can't comment too so no reviews for now
Quezon City Memorial Circle Zipline Rates:
One way: PhP100.00
Two way: PhP150.00
Open daily from 8am to 9pm
no entrance fee at Quezon Memorial Circle
plenty of car parking spaces for PhP15 (cars/vans)
For an online map of Quezon Memorial Circle, click here. For directions and information on how to get there, click the link about if below.
Related Posts on Quezon City:
Quezon City Hall
Quezon Circle Monument
Labels: Adventure Tourism, Metro Manila, Quezon City
posted by backpacking philippines @ 10:23 PM,
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The White Beach of Anda, Bohol
08 February 2012
About 2.5 hours travel time from Tagbilaran City, Anda, Bohol is home to a long stretch of fine white sand beach that is open to the public and (backpackers who pitch tents on the beach front) and devoid of expensive and exclusive resorts (except a few including Anda White Beach Resort).
Tutubi visited this small zero-crime-rate town, located on the southeast of Bohol Island, to visit a mystical place.
Anda White Beach, Bohol:
Anda White Beach where Tutubi even found the mayor personally supervising workers clearing the beach front of rocks in preparation for the Timex Triathlon the morrow
Anda White Beach sand is indeed fine white sand, several kilometers long and backpacker-friendly, not much resorts and happenings here, just peace and quiet (Anda is a zero crime rate town where the prison is empty and police doesn't have anything to do)
A local told Tutubi the sand were quarried and hauled to neighboring Cebu and Mactan Island for use of some resorts there.
What did Tutubi do in Anda, Bohol that he actually travelled this far out?
Coming up: the Red Hematite Rock Paintings of Lamanoc Island and the ancient people of Bohol :P
---
Anda White Beach
Coordinates: N9 44 36.4 E124 34 36.1
Table Rental Rates
Big Table: PhP150.00 good for 8 persons
Small Table: PhP75.00, good for 4 persons
Chair: PhP25.00
* pay at the municipal treasurer's office nearby
Related Posts on Bohol:
Tagbilaran Aiport Guide
Bohol Tour Itinerary
Van Rental rate to Anda, Bohol
Read more after the jump!
Tutubi visited this small zero-crime-rate town, located on the southeast of Bohol Island, to visit a mystical place.
Anda White Beach, Bohol:
Anda White Beach where Tutubi even found the mayor personally supervising workers clearing the beach front of rocks in preparation for the Timex Triathlon the morrow
Anda White Beach sand is indeed fine white sand, several kilometers long and backpacker-friendly, not much resorts and happenings here, just peace and quiet (Anda is a zero crime rate town where the prison is empty and police doesn't have anything to do)
A local told Tutubi the sand were quarried and hauled to neighboring Cebu and Mactan Island for use of some resorts there.
What did Tutubi do in Anda, Bohol that he actually travelled this far out?
Coming up: the Red Hematite Rock Paintings of Lamanoc Island and the ancient people of Bohol :P
---
Anda White Beach
Coordinates: N9 44 36.4 E124 34 36.1
Table Rental Rates
Big Table: PhP150.00 good for 8 persons
Small Table: PhP75.00, good for 4 persons
Chair: PhP25.00
* pay at the municipal treasurer's office nearby
Related Posts on Bohol:
Tagbilaran Aiport Guide
Bohol Tour Itinerary
Van Rental rate to Anda, Bohol
Labels: Beaches, Bohol, Central Visayas
posted by backpacking philippines @ 10:11 PM,
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