Trek to Mount Luho View Point , Boracay Island
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 an eagle, 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
not the mighty Philippine eagle here but pitifully caged. 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
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 an eagle, 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
not the mighty Philippine eagle here but pitifully caged. 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
posted by GingGoy @ 9:31 PM,
,
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.
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.
Labels: Mimaropa, Palawan, Southern Tagalog
posted by GingGoy @ 9:31 PM,
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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 for
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
Tropical Jungle Resort
*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) (a climb down the ridge)
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. Turn left at the end of the road (Tagaytay Econo Inn) then turn 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
Backpacking Tagaytay
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 for
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
Tropical Jungle Resort
*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) (a climb down the ridge)
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. Turn left at the end of the road (Tagaytay Econo Inn) then turn 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
Backpacking Tagaytay
Labels: Batangas, Rivers and Lakes, Talisay, Travel Guides, Volcanoes
posted by GingGoy @ 11:17 PM,
,
"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.
Video Teaser of Koh Lanta Caramoan on You Tube
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.
Tags: Koh Lanta, Survivor France, Survivor Bulgaria, Survivor Israel
Video Teaser of Koh Lanta Caramoan on You Tube
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.
Tags: Koh Lanta, Survivor France, Survivor Bulgaria, Survivor Israel
Labels: Bicol Region, Camarines Sur, Caramoan
posted by GingGoy @ 8:13 PM,
,
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
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
Labels: Restaurants, Seafood, Zamboanga City, Zamboanga Peninsula
posted by GingGoy @ 9:35 PM,
,
Boracay Lake Town Bar and Restaurant
16 April 2008
A lake near Boracay's main road and near the alley of D'Mall lies Boracay Lake Town Bar and Restaurant that got Tutubi's curiosity due to the good location and the presence, of course, of a lake with its green water.
Didn't get to peek inside the restaurant but the Boracay Times has an advertisement of the place.
Lake Town Bar and Restaurant, Shows, Nightclub
6pm to 9pm Mongolian Barbeque dinner with Ati-atihan show
reservations telephone number: +63.36.288.5897
How to get there:
location on Boracay's main road, walking distance from White Beach near D'Mall
Related Posts:
Mt. Luho
Talipapa Market
Kiteboarding
Boracay White Beach
Backpacking Boracay
Didn't get to peek inside the restaurant but the Boracay Times has an advertisement of the place.
Lake Town Bar and Restaurant, Shows, Nightclub
6pm to 9pm Mongolian Barbeque dinner with Ati-atihan show
reservations telephone number: +63.36.288.5897
How to get there:
location on Boracay's main road, walking distance from White Beach near D'Mall
Related Posts:
Mt. Luho
Talipapa Market
Kiteboarding
Boracay White Beach
Backpacking Boracay
Labels: Boracay, Boracay Restaurants
posted by GingGoy @ 10:48 PM,
,
Boracay: D'Talipapa Fresh Seafood Market and Paluto Restaurant
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!
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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
Labels: Aklan, Boracay, Boracay Restaurants, Western Visayas
posted by GingGoy @ 9:26 PM,
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Minani: Paete's Unique Street Food
08 April 2008
It was mentioned countless of times in this blog about minani in Paete but no picture nor description of it was ever posted here so for your appreciation, Tutubi would like to share one of his favorite snacks you can buy only on the narrow streets of Paete: the minani
Minani, in Tagalog, means made like mani (peanuts) and aptly describes the way people of Paete prepare cassava (kamoteng kahoy) to be deep fried and mixed with garlic, salt and sometimes MSG (some people think it's evil but Tutubi thinks otherwise)
Minani being cooked at a roadside store near Paete's Plaza Edesan (Nikon D80 18-200 VR)
Small serving of minani can be bought at a mere P5. Some locals love to put vinegar on their "Paete Fries." (Canon Ixus 30)
It's a simple recipe but the secret is the selection of kamoteng kahoy (cassava) to get the perfect, translucent and fudge-like minani. Remember also to soak the diced cassava in water to remove natural cyanide in linamarin form (linamarin protects the cassava plant from predators) usually released into the air when processed.
The next time you set foot on Tutubi's hometown, try to sample this unique delicacy as well as other Paete culinary treasures. Should you happen to catch the elusive Tutubi, he may even buy some for you. :P
Minani, in Tagalog, means made like mani (peanuts) and aptly describes the way people of Paete prepare cassava (kamoteng kahoy) to be deep fried and mixed with garlic, salt and sometimes MSG (some people think it's evil but Tutubi thinks otherwise)
Minani being cooked at a roadside store near Paete's Plaza Edesan (Nikon D80 18-200 VR)
Small serving of minani can be bought at a mere P5. Some locals love to put vinegar on their "Paete Fries." (Canon Ixus 30)It's a simple recipe but the secret is the selection of kamoteng kahoy (cassava) to get the perfect, translucent and fudge-like minani. Remember also to soak the diced cassava in water to remove natural cyanide in linamarin form (linamarin protects the cassava plant from predators) usually released into the air when processed.
The next time you set foot on Tutubi's hometown, try to sample this unique delicacy as well as other Paete culinary treasures. Should you happen to catch the elusive Tutubi, he may even buy some for you. :P
Labels: Calabarzon, Laguna, Paete, Southern Tagalog, Street Food
posted by GingGoy @ 10:29 PM,
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Exotic Kape Alamid (Kopi Luwak), Anyone?
05 April 2008
For eons now, Tutubi has been yearning to again sample the famous kape alamid raved about by mainstream media until an accidental meet up with friends at Kape Kesada during Holy Week when Kape Kesada's affable owner suggested sampling his new offering: the exotic kape alamid.
After brewing the gourmet coffee, Tutubi egged the others unfamiliar to kape alamid to sample the coffee first, comment on the taste, before divulging the process on how kape alamid is prepared (since it's not really for the faint of heart)
Tutubi's friends enjoying kape alamid brewed at Kape Kesada
Kape Alamid, called Kopi Luwak in Indonesia and weasel coffee in Vietnam, came from the ripest coffee berries that were ingested, processed and later defecated by the civet cat locally known as Alamid (Paradoxurus philippinensis).
After tasting the aromatic taste of the coffee brew, without the bitter taste, and the aroma lingers in your throat, several of the "beta testers" opted not to drink again the gourmet coffee blend after hearing how it's made.
Don't worry, kopi luwak undergoes sterilization process to get rid of viruses, bacteria, molds and mildews before packaging so it's safe and clean. It's only your mind subverting you not to ingest the unique aromatic taste of the exotic kopi luwak.
Tutubi's verdict: kopi luwak doesn't have that bitter aftertaste of most coffee blends since the biterness has been taken away during "processing" inside the civet cat's stomach leaving with you the goodness (no idea yet on caffeine content). For the penny-pinching Tutubi, kopi luwak is expensive, and not for everyday consumption unless you have money to burn.
Where to buy Kape Alamid/Kopi Luwak/Civet Coffee/Weasel Coffee in Manila?
Tutubi saw some Kape Alamid on sale at Tiendesitas in Pasig City (it's not easy to commute there but it's a taxi ride from MRT Ortigas station. Be prepared to wait for your return ride also since it seems only people with private cars frequent the place) near C5. The only option for commuting there is to go to Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan and ride the free shuttle going to Tiendesitas (Greenhills and Tiendesitas' owners are the same). You won't find this in Starbucks (that overpriced coffee patronized by Filipinos), UCC (über-costly coffee), Mocha Blends, Coffee Bean, Gloria Jeans, Figaro, Filibeans Tagaytay and other coffee shops mushrooming in the Philippines.
How much does kopi luwak/kape alamid cost?
Price is about PhP500 ($12.50) for 50 grams or about PhP10,000/kilo so it's really the most expensive coffee in the world!
Note: Kopi Muncak (also Kopi Muntjak) is a similar type of coffee produced from the feces of the muntjac (barking deer)
After brewing the gourmet coffee, Tutubi egged the others unfamiliar to kape alamid to sample the coffee first, comment on the taste, before divulging the process on how kape alamid is prepared (since it's not really for the faint of heart)
Tutubi's friends enjoying kape alamid brewed at Kape KesadaKape Alamid, called Kopi Luwak in Indonesia and weasel coffee in Vietnam, came from the ripest coffee berries that were ingested, processed and later defecated by the civet cat locally known as Alamid (Paradoxurus philippinensis).
After tasting the aromatic taste of the coffee brew, without the bitter taste, and the aroma lingers in your throat, several of the "beta testers" opted not to drink again the gourmet coffee blend after hearing how it's made.
Don't worry, kopi luwak undergoes sterilization process to get rid of viruses, bacteria, molds and mildews before packaging so it's safe and clean. It's only your mind subverting you not to ingest the unique aromatic taste of the exotic kopi luwak.
Tutubi's verdict: kopi luwak doesn't have that bitter aftertaste of most coffee blends since the biterness has been taken away during "processing" inside the civet cat's stomach leaving with you the goodness (no idea yet on caffeine content). For the penny-pinching Tutubi, kopi luwak is expensive, and not for everyday consumption unless you have money to burn.
Where to buy Kape Alamid/Kopi Luwak/Civet Coffee/Weasel Coffee in Manila?
Tutubi saw some Kape Alamid on sale at Tiendesitas in Pasig City (it's not easy to commute there but it's a taxi ride from MRT Ortigas station. Be prepared to wait for your return ride also since it seems only people with private cars frequent the place) near C5. The only option for commuting there is to go to Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan and ride the free shuttle going to Tiendesitas (Greenhills and Tiendesitas' owners are the same). You won't find this in Starbucks (that overpriced coffee patronized by Filipinos), UCC (über-costly coffee), Mocha Blends, Coffee Bean, Gloria Jeans, Figaro, Filibeans Tagaytay and other coffee shops mushrooming in the Philippines.
How much does kopi luwak/kape alamid cost?
Price is about PhP500 ($12.50) for 50 grams or about PhP10,000/kilo so it's really the most expensive coffee in the world!
Note: Kopi Muncak (also Kopi Muntjak) is a similar type of coffee produced from the feces of the muntjac (barking deer)
Labels: Exotic Food
posted by GingGoy @ 11:06 PM,
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Paete: Kape Kesada Art Gallery
03 April 2008
Located on Paete's main road Quesada St, Kape Kesada is a house made from salvaged parts of old houses, brainchild of a dentist and a patron of Paete's budding artists. It's an exhibit venue for artists, mostly painters and sculptors, some of whom already carving a niche of their own or just starting to market their art creations.
Kape Kesada, an art gallery, is an artwork in itself with the walls painted by some of artists holding exhibits
Last Holy Week, Kape Kesada showcased works with Kuaresma theme to coincide with the season.
picture of the mural taken from inside (canon ixus 30)
At the gallery cum cafe, you may order coffee, tanglad juice (lemon grass), halo-halo and soon to be offered Kape Alamid/Kopi Luwak. Inside the area is also a Big Mak burger stand open 24 hours catering to Paete's nocturnal denizens.
the al fresco dining of the coffee shop cum art gallery
halo-halo at P35 only goes well with minani(Canon EOS 300D)
Kape Kesada has a mission, similar to Malabon's Bahay Parokyano to provide an exhibit area for young artists to showcase and sell their art works.
For now, Tutubi will just take a coffee break.
How to get to Kape Kesada:
the art gallery/coffee shop is just a few meters away from Rural Bank of Paete at Plaza Edesan (the commercial center of the town). It's about 400 meters from the town plaza and Parish of St. James (Paete Church). For those with vehicles, you may park your cars at Plaza Edesan then a short walk to the cafe/art gallery.
Note: Taking pictures is not allowed inside the gallery. Tutubi was able to take photos with permission from the owner but can't post them here without permission of the artists.
Kape Kesada, an art gallery, is an artwork in itself with the walls painted by some of artists holding exhibits
Last Holy Week, Kape Kesada showcased works with Kuaresma theme to coincide with the season.
picture of the mural taken from inside (canon ixus 30)At the gallery cum cafe, you may order coffee, tanglad juice (lemon grass), halo-halo and soon to be offered Kape Alamid/Kopi Luwak. Inside the area is also a Big Mak burger stand open 24 hours catering to Paete's nocturnal denizens.
the al fresco dining of the coffee shop cum art gallery
halo-halo at P35 only goes well with minani(Canon EOS 300D)Kape Kesada has a mission, similar to Malabon's Bahay Parokyano to provide an exhibit area for young artists to showcase and sell their art works.
For now, Tutubi will just take a coffee break.
How to get to Kape Kesada:
the art gallery/coffee shop is just a few meters away from Rural Bank of Paete at Plaza Edesan (the commercial center of the town). It's about 400 meters from the town plaza and Parish of St. James (Paete Church). For those with vehicles, you may park your cars at Plaza Edesan then a short walk to the cafe/art gallery.
Note: Taking pictures is not allowed inside the gallery. Tutubi was able to take photos with permission from the owner but can't post them here without permission of the artists.
Labels: Art, Calabarzon, Laguna, Paete, Southern Tagalog
posted by GingGoy @ 11:01 PM,
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