Review: Mount Malarayat Golf Course in Lipa City, Batangas
31 May 2008
Always stressed out at work, Tutubi has a part of his job that takes him to seminars outside of the big city four times a year. The latest was a trip to the peaceful surroundings of Mt. Malarayat Golf and Country Club.
Left Makati at around noon and took a late lunch at Rose and Grace Restaurant in Santo Tomas before going back to enter the Startoll on the way to Lipa City, Tutubi was again excited by his upcoming change in environment beginning with the gates of the playground of the rich and famous in Batangas.
the picturesque entrance of Mt. Malarayat Golf and Country Club
the lagoon view outside Tutubi's room with Mt. Malarayat trek in his mind. Wonder where the jump-off point is
The golf course, designed by world-renowned J. Michael Poellet, is a 27 hole, championship golf course.
golfers enjoy early morning flight on the green golf course
putting with bunkers, water, and trees offering a unique challenge
children and adults enjoy at the club swimming pool
cute ducks queue up going to the nearby lagoon. an even better photo opportunity was missed by Tutubi earlier when the same "mighty ducks" swam on the lagoon forming a "flying V" formation
Tutubi was about to explore the golf course and surrounding areas when a distress call of one of his officemates made him go to SM Lipa instead to withdraw money transferred to his account at an ATM. remember, you can only withdraw a maximum of P20k per day so he volunteered his account for his officemate to get his money much more than the maximum daily ATM withdrawal limit of his bank.
the cozy hotel room that welcomed Tutubi upong check in and after the tiring day
Tutubi's ride back home to Manila
Don't take his word for it. Tutubi rode a van back to Manila but passed by Mt. Carmel church, ate at Hapag Pinoy restaurant, Babe's buko pie for pasalubong, Panaderia Pantoja in Tanauan, and late lunch at Rose and Grace in Sto. Tomas for another round of steaming hot bulalo and crispy tawilis.
---
Mount Malarayat Reviews and comments:
Food was great and tasty at the clubhouse but took too long to be served.
Front desk and other staff were friendly and accommodating.
Being not a hotel, they find it hard to serve large groups of people like the seminar Tutubi attended.
Tutubi found out he also left his Nikon 18-200 VR lens hood in his room when he's already in Makati. When he sent an email to the front desk people, he received a call from them and informed him to fetch his lens hood, costs about P700 for a single piece of black plastic shaped like a flower to prevent lens flares, the following Saturday with the help of his officemate who lives in Tanauan.
Information from Mt. Malarayat official website:
Mount Malarayat Golf & Country Club and Residential Estates
Lipa City, Batangas 4217
Telephone Number: (043)756-7006, 007, 009
Fax: (043)756-7005
Manila: Tel: (02)893-7024 to 28
Fax: (02)894-0155
Email: malarayat@mozcom.com
Access: Private (no information on green fees yet nor membership fees. you need to come with a club member to play)
Hours of Operation: Dawn to Dusk
Facilities:
• Golf Clubhouse - Exclusive men’s & women’s locker rooms equipped with showers, jacuzzi, steam baths, sauna massage, pampering areas and a gym; fully –equipped golf clinic; golf equipment servicing facilities; pro shop; lobby lounge; function rooms; covered parking for golf carts.
• Restaurants and Function Rooms
- Sand Trap Lounge
- The Arirang Restaurant and Spa
- Green Room A & B
- Eagle Lounge
• Driving Range - 22 tee boxes; lounging area with refreshment counter
• Tee House No. 1 / Tee House No. 2 / Tee House No. 3 - Shaded trellis area; kitchenette & bar; view deck & barbecue area for Tee House No.3
How to get to Mount Malarayat Golf & Country Club and Residential Estates in Lipa, Batangas:
How to Commute from Manila: Board any bus bound for Batangas City via Tanauan (Not via Calabarzon) in Pasay City (Taft Avenue near corner Gil Puyat Ave (LRT Buendia station) then drop off when you see Fiesta World Mall (Fiesta Mall). Ride a tricycle or a jeepney with Dagatan signboard to take you to the golf club.
Driving directions to Lipa, Batangas: from Makati, head towards SLEX and exit at Silangan (Batangas Lucena). Drive directly ahead passing by Shell, Turbina and Carmelray until you reach Star Tollway (StarToll). Enter Star Toll by turning right and exit at Bulihan (access to Malvar town) turn left after the toll gate, and drive to the end of the road where you turn right (this is now old highway) that leads to a road where you see Fiesta Mall. Turn left at the road with Fiesta Mall until you see the prominent sign of Mount Malarayat. Note: should you happen to miss Bulihan exit at Star Toll and instead took Tambo (Lipa) you need to go back to get to Malarayat where you also pass by Robinsons and SM City Lipa.
Related Posts:
Philippine Golf Courses
Splendido Taal Residential, Golf & Country Club
Tagaytay Highlands Golf & Country Club
Left Makati at around noon and took a late lunch at Rose and Grace Restaurant in Santo Tomas before going back to enter the Startoll on the way to Lipa City, Tutubi was again excited by his upcoming change in environment beginning with the gates of the playground of the rich and famous in Batangas.
the picturesque entrance of Mt. Malarayat Golf and Country Club
the lagoon view outside Tutubi's room with Mt. Malarayat trek in his mind. Wonder where the jump-off point isThe golf course, designed by world-renowned J. Michael Poellet, is a 27 hole, championship golf course.
golfers enjoy early morning flight on the green golf course
putting with bunkers, water, and trees offering a unique challenge
children and adults enjoy at the club swimming pool
cute ducks queue up going to the nearby lagoon. an even better photo opportunity was missed by Tutubi earlier when the same "mighty ducks" swam on the lagoon forming a "flying V" formationTutubi was about to explore the golf course and surrounding areas when a distress call of one of his officemates made him go to SM Lipa instead to withdraw money transferred to his account at an ATM. remember, you can only withdraw a maximum of P20k per day so he volunteered his account for his officemate to get his money much more than the maximum daily ATM withdrawal limit of his bank.
the cozy hotel room that welcomed Tutubi upong check in and after the tiring day
Tutubi's ride back home to ManilaDon't take his word for it. Tutubi rode a van back to Manila but passed by Mt. Carmel church, ate at Hapag Pinoy restaurant, Babe's buko pie for pasalubong, Panaderia Pantoja in Tanauan, and late lunch at Rose and Grace in Sto. Tomas for another round of steaming hot bulalo and crispy tawilis.
---
Mount Malarayat Reviews and comments:
Food was great and tasty at the clubhouse but took too long to be served.
Front desk and other staff were friendly and accommodating.
Being not a hotel, they find it hard to serve large groups of people like the seminar Tutubi attended.
Tutubi found out he also left his Nikon 18-200 VR lens hood in his room when he's already in Makati. When he sent an email to the front desk people, he received a call from them and informed him to fetch his lens hood, costs about P700 for a single piece of black plastic shaped like a flower to prevent lens flares, the following Saturday with the help of his officemate who lives in Tanauan.
Information from Mt. Malarayat official website:
Mount Malarayat Golf & Country Club and Residential Estates
Lipa City, Batangas 4217
Telephone Number: (043)756-7006, 007, 009
Fax: (043)756-7005
Manila: Tel: (02)893-7024 to 28
Fax: (02)894-0155
Email: malarayat@mozcom.com
Access: Private (no information on green fees yet nor membership fees. you need to come with a club member to play)
Hours of Operation: Dawn to Dusk
Facilities:
• Golf Clubhouse - Exclusive men’s & women’s locker rooms equipped with showers, jacuzzi, steam baths, sauna massage, pampering areas and a gym; fully –equipped golf clinic; golf equipment servicing facilities; pro shop; lobby lounge; function rooms; covered parking for golf carts.
• Restaurants and Function Rooms
- Sand Trap Lounge
- The Arirang Restaurant and Spa
- Green Room A & B
- Eagle Lounge
• Driving Range - 22 tee boxes; lounging area with refreshment counter
• Tee House No. 1 / Tee House No. 2 / Tee House No. 3 - Shaded trellis area; kitchenette & bar; view deck & barbecue area for Tee House No.3
How to get to Mount Malarayat Golf & Country Club and Residential Estates in Lipa, Batangas:
How to Commute from Manila: Board any bus bound for Batangas City via Tanauan (Not via Calabarzon) in Pasay City (Taft Avenue near corner Gil Puyat Ave (LRT Buendia station) then drop off when you see Fiesta World Mall (Fiesta Mall). Ride a tricycle or a jeepney with Dagatan signboard to take you to the golf club.
Driving directions to Lipa, Batangas: from Makati, head towards SLEX and exit at Silangan (Batangas Lucena). Drive directly ahead passing by Shell, Turbina and Carmelray until you reach Star Tollway (StarToll). Enter Star Toll by turning right and exit at Bulihan (access to Malvar town) turn left after the toll gate, and drive to the end of the road where you turn right (this is now old highway) that leads to a road where you see Fiesta Mall. Turn left at the road with Fiesta Mall until you see the prominent sign of Mount Malarayat. Note: should you happen to miss Bulihan exit at Star Toll and instead took Tambo (Lipa) you need to go back to get to Malarayat where you also pass by Robinsons and SM City Lipa.
Related Posts:
Philippine Golf Courses
Splendido Taal Residential, Golf & Country Club
Tagaytay Highlands Golf & Country Club
Labels: Batangas, Golf Courses, Lipa City
posted by GingGoy @ 11:31 PM,
,
2nd Blog Anniversary
26 May 2008
Born as Tutubi Patrol on May 26, 2006, re-christened Tutubi Flight Chronicles a few months later, before morphing into Backpacking Philippines and Asia, along with the top level domain name just last January 2008, this blog is still alive and... blogging!
Regarding the domain name, Tutubi was surprised to discover such a premium domain still unregistered when he queried domain registries for various top level domain names. It's just testament to the undeveloped backpacking facilities and routes along with lack of information on backpacking underrated Philippines, a segment of tourism unseen on the radar screen of the myopic Department of Tourism focused mainly on the usual tourists and incompetent travel agencies who only know how to book flights and hotel/resort rooms besides processing passport applications and renewals.
To update you on all places Tutubi has visited so far, herewith is the new map of Philippines from Lakbayan:
map of the Philippines, so many places, so little time...and money!
Tutubi's grade has been updated to a full B from B- :P
hoping for B+ soon!
Tutubi's travel Wishlist: Babuyan Islands (for the breeding ground of humpback whales), Batanes, Cagayan Valley, Caramoan Peninsula, Catanduanes, Masbate, Marinduque, Romblon, Carabao Island, Cuyo Island, Balabac Island, Siargao...the list can go on including an upcoming trip down under...
If you also noticed, Tutubi has been secretly posting his past travels in the Philippines as well as other countries he visited (i.e Thailand, India, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong) to complete his flight chronicles. It's not yet finished and he also has lots more unposted recent travels in this blog so please stay tuned!
Regarding the domain name, Tutubi was surprised to discover such a premium domain still unregistered when he queried domain registries for various top level domain names. It's just testament to the undeveloped backpacking facilities and routes along with lack of information on backpacking underrated Philippines, a segment of tourism unseen on the radar screen of the myopic Department of Tourism focused mainly on the usual tourists and incompetent travel agencies who only know how to book flights and hotel/resort rooms besides processing passport applications and renewals.
To update you on all places Tutubi has visited so far, herewith is the new map of Philippines from Lakbayan:
map of the Philippines, so many places, so little time...and money!Tutubi's grade has been updated to a full B from B- :P
hoping for B+ soon!
Tutubi's travel Wishlist: Babuyan Islands (for the breeding ground of humpback whales), Batanes, Cagayan Valley, Caramoan Peninsula, Catanduanes, Masbate, Marinduque, Romblon, Carabao Island, Cuyo Island, Balabac Island, Siargao...the list can go on including an upcoming trip down under...
If you also noticed, Tutubi has been secretly posting his past travels in the Philippines as well as other countries he visited (i.e Thailand, India, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong) to complete his flight chronicles. It's not yet finished and he also has lots more unposted recent travels in this blog so please stay tuned!
Labels: Blogging
posted by GingGoy @ 10:41 PM,
,
The Elongated Skulls of the Incas of Peru and Early Filipinos
25 May 2008
Tutubi had a chance to see Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull for free at Greenbelt myCinema a few days ago. The new "fake" archeology film takes you to Peru in the Incan capital of of Cuzco and yet Tutubi was dismayed when the pyramid shown was modeled from Chichen Itza from Mexico, the easily recognizable structure of Mayan civilization, and not of Machu Picchu, the authentic Inca city in Peru. It seems the makers of this film, including the director Steven Spielberg, didn't do their homework right by mixing Incan and Mayan architecture.
free movie poster from the official website
And how does this post relate to the Philippines?
Well, the movie used the elongated skulls of the Incas of Peru were depicted as skulls of aliens made of crystal, related to rumored aliens of Roswell in New Mexico. The elongated skulls were actually made by ancient Incas by binding the heads of infants similar to pre-colonial Filipinos' practice of cranial deformation of the temporal lobe evident in preserved remains of early Filipinos before the swords and crosses of Spain arrived. Proof? Visit the Butuan Regional Museum to see elongated skulls of early people at the Archeology section of the museum. (no pictures here since taking photos inside the museum's not allowed)
Lastly, did you know that Tutubi met Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong?
---
Note:
Peru's Machu Picchu and Mexico's Chichen Itza were both elected to the New 7 Wonders of the World recently. Tutubi would love to go Backpacking in Peru and Mexico too!
free movie poster from the official websiteAnd how does this post relate to the Philippines?
Well, the movie used the elongated skulls of the Incas of Peru were depicted as skulls of aliens made of crystal, related to rumored aliens of Roswell in New Mexico. The elongated skulls were actually made by ancient Incas by binding the heads of infants similar to pre-colonial Filipinos' practice of cranial deformation of the temporal lobe evident in preserved remains of early Filipinos before the swords and crosses of Spain arrived. Proof? Visit the Butuan Regional Museum to see elongated skulls of early people at the Archeology section of the museum. (no pictures here since taking photos inside the museum's not allowed)
Lastly, did you know that Tutubi met Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong?
---
Note:
Peru's Machu Picchu and Mexico's Chichen Itza were both elected to the New 7 Wonders of the World recently. Tutubi would love to go Backpacking in Peru and Mexico too!
Labels: Beyond Asia
posted by GingGoy @ 10:28 PM,
,
Unaccompanied Minor Fees/Charges for Children/Baby/Kids Flying Solo
24 May 2008
Whenever Tutubi hears of kids flying solo, he remembers the romantic film Sleepless in Seattle, starring Tom Hanks (Sam) and Meg Ryan (Annie), where Sam's son Jonah flew alone to New York to meet Annie to realize his wish for his lonely daddy.
That's the movies where almost every rule can be broken for "cinematic effect."
In reality, you need to know the rules and the law before before your kid flies on an airline alone. Usually, you need to pay additional fees for the service as well the law of the destination country.
For unaccompanied minor children below fifteen traveling to the Philippines alone or without a parent, be aware of the (stupid) Waiver of Exclusion Ground contained in an old Commonwealth Act 613 (that should be repealed, Tutubi thinks). More information on WEG below from one official Philippine Embassy website:
"WAIVER OF EXCLUSION GROUND (WEG) FOR UNACCOMPANIED MINOR CHILDREN
(12) Children under fifteen years of age, unaccompanied by or not coming to a parent, except that any such children may be admitted in the discretion of the Commissioner of Immigration, if otherwise admissible;
Non-Filipino minors below fifteen (15) years of age, who are traveling unaccompanied and are not joining a parent in the Philippines, are required to apply for a WAIVER of EXCLUSION GROUND (WEG) at the Philippine Embassy in order to be admitted entry in the Philippines regardless of whether or not the minor requires a visa.
Applications for the WAIVER of EXCLUSION GROUND (WEG) are approved and processed by the Bureau of Immigration in Manila, subject to the following conditions:
1. Submission of Affidavit of Request and Consent by either parent or legally appointed guardian of the child, naming the person who will be accompanying the child to the Philippines and with whom the child will reside while in the Philippines, and
(a) Clear photocopy of the data page of the child’s passport.
(b) Clear photocopy of the data page of the passport of accompanying adult or guardian.
2. Payment of the WEG fee at the Bureau of Immigration-NAIA upon arrival of the minor child/children;
3. Payment of notarization fee (in cash)."
How much does WEG costs?
The Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG) Fee is PhP3120.00. Details here
Information on various Airlines and Budget Carriers below:
Cebu Pacific Unaccompanied Minor:
We do not accept for carriage unaccompanied children below four (4) years old unless they are accompanied by a guest of at least eighteen (18) years of age.
Children aged four (4) to twelve (12) years old may be accommodated on the flight provided that they pay the Unaccompanied Minor Handling Fee of PhP500 + VAT per sector per unaccompanied minor for domestic and USD25 per sector per unaccompanied minor for international (at selected airports)."
Philippine Airlines Unaccompanied Minors
Children aged eight to below twelve years of age may be allowed to travel alone.
A service fee shall be assessed on each unaccompanied minor for travel on international routes. The unaccompanied minor service fee shall be as follows:
US$50.00 for travel between Manila and USA/Canada
US$20.00 for all other international sectors
Details about the minor's meeting party at destination and other pertinent information must be arranged by the parent or guardian with PAL Reservations office or ticket office at the time of booking
Singapore Airlines Unaccompanied Minor fees
This service is accorded to our young customers between the ages of 5 and under 17 years when they travel without their parents or guardians aged 18 years and above.
Check also fees and policies of your airline for updated information.
That's the movies where almost every rule can be broken for "cinematic effect."
In reality, you need to know the rules and the law before before your kid flies on an airline alone. Usually, you need to pay additional fees for the service as well the law of the destination country.
For unaccompanied minor children below fifteen traveling to the Philippines alone or without a parent, be aware of the (stupid) Waiver of Exclusion Ground contained in an old Commonwealth Act 613 (that should be repealed, Tutubi thinks). More information on WEG below from one official Philippine Embassy website:
"WAIVER OF EXCLUSION GROUND (WEG) FOR UNACCOMPANIED MINOR CHILDREN
(12) Children under fifteen years of age, unaccompanied by or not coming to a parent, except that any such children may be admitted in the discretion of the Commissioner of Immigration, if otherwise admissible;
Non-Filipino minors below fifteen (15) years of age, who are traveling unaccompanied and are not joining a parent in the Philippines, are required to apply for a WAIVER of EXCLUSION GROUND (WEG) at the Philippine Embassy in order to be admitted entry in the Philippines regardless of whether or not the minor requires a visa.
Applications for the WAIVER of EXCLUSION GROUND (WEG) are approved and processed by the Bureau of Immigration in Manila, subject to the following conditions:
1. Submission of Affidavit of Request and Consent by either parent or legally appointed guardian of the child, naming the person who will be accompanying the child to the Philippines and with whom the child will reside while in the Philippines, and
(a) Clear photocopy of the data page of the child’s passport.
(b) Clear photocopy of the data page of the passport of accompanying adult or guardian.
2. Payment of the WEG fee at the Bureau of Immigration-NAIA upon arrival of the minor child/children;
3. Payment of notarization fee (in cash)."
How much does WEG costs?
The Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG) Fee is PhP3120.00. Details here
Information on various Airlines and Budget Carriers below:
Cebu Pacific Unaccompanied Minor:
We do not accept for carriage unaccompanied children below four (4) years old unless they are accompanied by a guest of at least eighteen (18) years of age.
Children aged four (4) to twelve (12) years old may be accommodated on the flight provided that they pay the Unaccompanied Minor Handling Fee of PhP500 + VAT per sector per unaccompanied minor for domestic and USD25 per sector per unaccompanied minor for international (at selected airports)."
Philippine Airlines Unaccompanied Minors
Children aged eight to below twelve years of age may be allowed to travel alone.
A service fee shall be assessed on each unaccompanied minor for travel on international routes. The unaccompanied minor service fee shall be as follows:
US$50.00 for travel between Manila and USA/Canada
US$20.00 for all other international sectors
Details about the minor's meeting party at destination and other pertinent information must be arranged by the parent or guardian with PAL Reservations office or ticket office at the time of booking
Singapore Airlines Unaccompanied Minor fees
This service is accorded to our young customers between the ages of 5 and under 17 years when they travel without their parents or guardians aged 18 years and above.
Check also fees and policies of your airline for updated information.
Labels: Travel Warnings
posted by GingGoy @ 10:46 PM,
,
Camarines Norte: The Then Pristine Beach of Calaguas Island (Bicol's Hidden Gem)
After a hearty lunch of laing, a Bicol specialty of taro leaves in coconut milk and chili, and grilled yellow fin tuna in Apuao Grande Island, Tutubi and his group "sailed" on for more than two hours to reach their desired destination that fueled the whole tour of Camarines Norte: the virgin beach of Calaguas Island.
The journey was long even made worse by the not so placid water of the Philippine Sea with sightings of small islands with rolling hills and small patches of white sand beaches visible from afar, but the distance and time was immaterial to the ultimate quest was at hand.
There are many islands belonging to Calaguas group of islands but the main island has the longest white sand beach of them all that locals call Mahabang Buhangin (literally long sand, translate loosely as Long Beach).
Upon setting foot on Mahabang Buhangin, the fine white sand of the beach is truly something to behold. The sand is as fine, if not finer than the powdery white sand of Boracay, and also not hot to the feet despite the heat of the summer sun, must be due to the rare chemical composition of the sand also present on Boracay Island.
first sight of Mahabang Buhangin on the "undiscovered" island
Trudging slowly over wet sand towards the "resort," birds of various species flew away on sensing the presence the group while butterflies fluttered in every direction indicating a still intact ecosystem unharmed by the few inhabitants of Calaguas, mostly living on the other side of the island in Vinzon's barangay Banocboc. At dusk, the sound of male kuliglig (cicada), calling the female species for mating, add very rural setting to the place to be enhanced further at night when alitaptap (fireflies) light up nearby trees for a spectacular display of nature's beauty.
There are no resorts on Calaguas, accommodations are either native huts or tents pitched on the beach and some camp sites. There's toilet and bathroom (with tiled floors and walls) inside the bahay kubo but you need to fetch water or hire a local to fetch for you for a minimal fee. There's fresh water supplied by a deep well while drinking water used by the locals from the saluno (aqueduct) (it's is advised though to bring your own drinking water if you can't stand natural mineral water). About a kilometer trek through the thick forest leads to a village where you can buy basic supplies in case you need something.
the bahay kubo (native hut) is the only "high-end resort" on the island
walking on the pristine beach, lonely planet style (does this picture look familiar?)
footprints on the sand...sand that does not feel hot to the feet
After a sumptuous dinner around a bonfire, Tutubi and his friends chose not to sleep inside the bahay kubo, and instead slept on the beach, using blankets, with the sound of lapping waves, croaking frogs, chirping birds, gentle ocean wind and under the canopy of stars with the mythical hunter Orion and the Pleiades keeping watch.
cheap place to stay on the beach!
Nature, adventure, birds, butterflies, seclusion, serenity, cerulean skies, amazing landscapes, rolling hills, turquoise waters, cool fine white sand without the maddening crowd and hint of civilization all rolled into one: Calaguas Island!
---
Other activities in Calaguas Group of Islands:
Island-hopping, SCUBA-diving and snorkeling at Banocboc coral reef, trekking/mountain climbing, Butterfly watching, bird watching. The recommended Calaguas itinerary is just an overnight stay on the island unless you really prefer to live like that on a remote island.
Other places to see in Vinzons, Camarines Norte: Wenceslao Vinzons Shrine and Vinzons Church
Trivia: Vinzons town was first called Tacboan, later renamed Indan. It was changed to Vinzons after Wenceslao Q. Vinzons, a former governor of Camarines and guerilla leader executed by the Japanese in World War II. Vinzons Hall in the University of the Philippines (UP) in Diliman is named after him.
Note: there's no electricity. Smart mobile phone signal can be received at a marked point on the beach :(
How to get to Calaguas Island, Vinzons, Camarines Norte:
Board a bus to Daet, Camarines Norte via Sta. Elena (Piltranco, Amihan Express, Daet Express, fare: PhP500.00), get off at a junction called Batobalani in Jose Panganiban town, ride a tricycle to the port of Paracale (fare: PhP20.00) then look for boats going to Tinaga Island (PhP100.00 fare) or rent a boat to the island (PhP3,000.00 boat rental rate).
the nearest jump-off point to Calaguas Island is via the gold mine town of Paracale, where you can even drop by the rural white beach of Maculabo Island
Daily Boat schedule to Calaguas:
Paracale Port to Brgy. Mangcawayan: 1pm (be there early, Fare: PhP100.00)
Brgy. Mangcawayan to Paracale: 7am (fare: PhP100.00
One trip only, travel time is between 2 to 3 hours
Fees, Fares, Rates:
Beach Entrance Fee: Php 100/head (per day)
Cottage Rental: PhP300.00
Baranggay fee: PhP20.00
Calaguas Island can also be reach by a boat ride, about two hours, from Daet's Bagasbas Beach
Calaguas Island package tours are offered by tour operators and local travel agencies. there's no such thing as calaguas itinerary since all you do in the island is swim and do island hopping
There are hotels on Calaguas Island, resorts are not yet there too.
NOTE (updated May 2013):
Tutubi went back to Calaguas Island Mahabang Buhangin in 2012 and saw development being made there, a part of the white beach was bought, reportedly by Shangri-la resort (but unconfirmed). Foreign plants like a green grass was being planted right on the beach that will someday wreck havoc on Calaguas Island eco-system, being an exotic plant species to the island.
many recent blog posts on calaguas Island reports garbage left by backpackers and usual tourists alike, development of the area (which will someday make the beach exclusive to the future Calaguas Island Resort) and off-limits to the public.
Should Tutubi publish a requiem to Calaguas Island now?
The journey was long even made worse by the not so placid water of the Philippine Sea with sightings of small islands with rolling hills and small patches of white sand beaches visible from afar, but the distance and time was immaterial to the ultimate quest was at hand.
There are many islands belonging to Calaguas group of islands but the main island has the longest white sand beach of them all that locals call Mahabang Buhangin (literally long sand, translate loosely as Long Beach).
Upon setting foot on Mahabang Buhangin, the fine white sand of the beach is truly something to behold. The sand is as fine, if not finer than the powdery white sand of Boracay, and also not hot to the feet despite the heat of the summer sun, must be due to the rare chemical composition of the sand also present on Boracay Island.
first sight of Mahabang Buhangin on the "undiscovered" island Trudging slowly over wet sand towards the "resort," birds of various species flew away on sensing the presence the group while butterflies fluttered in every direction indicating a still intact ecosystem unharmed by the few inhabitants of Calaguas, mostly living on the other side of the island in Vinzon's barangay Banocboc. At dusk, the sound of male kuliglig (cicada), calling the female species for mating, add very rural setting to the place to be enhanced further at night when alitaptap (fireflies) light up nearby trees for a spectacular display of nature's beauty.
There are no resorts on Calaguas, accommodations are either native huts or tents pitched on the beach and some camp sites. There's toilet and bathroom (with tiled floors and walls) inside the bahay kubo but you need to fetch water or hire a local to fetch for you for a minimal fee. There's fresh water supplied by a deep well while drinking water used by the locals from the saluno (aqueduct) (it's is advised though to bring your own drinking water if you can't stand natural mineral water). About a kilometer trek through the thick forest leads to a village where you can buy basic supplies in case you need something.
the bahay kubo (native hut) is the only "high-end resort" on the island 
walking on the pristine beach, lonely planet style (does this picture look familiar?) 
footprints on the sand...sand that does not feel hot to the feet After a sumptuous dinner around a bonfire, Tutubi and his friends chose not to sleep inside the bahay kubo, and instead slept on the beach, using blankets, with the sound of lapping waves, croaking frogs, chirping birds, gentle ocean wind and under the canopy of stars with the mythical hunter Orion and the Pleiades keeping watch.
cheap place to stay on the beach! Nature, adventure, birds, butterflies, seclusion, serenity, cerulean skies, amazing landscapes, rolling hills, turquoise waters, cool fine white sand without the maddening crowd and hint of civilization all rolled into one: Calaguas Island!
---
Other activities in Calaguas Group of Islands:
Island-hopping, SCUBA-diving and snorkeling at Banocboc coral reef, trekking/mountain climbing, Butterfly watching, bird watching. The recommended Calaguas itinerary is just an overnight stay on the island unless you really prefer to live like that on a remote island.
Other places to see in Vinzons, Camarines Norte: Wenceslao Vinzons Shrine and Vinzons Church
Trivia: Vinzons town was first called Tacboan, later renamed Indan. It was changed to Vinzons after Wenceslao Q. Vinzons, a former governor of Camarines and guerilla leader executed by the Japanese in World War II. Vinzons Hall in the University of the Philippines (UP) in Diliman is named after him.
Note: there's no electricity. Smart mobile phone signal can be received at a marked point on the beach :(
How to get to Calaguas Island, Vinzons, Camarines Norte:
Board a bus to Daet, Camarines Norte via Sta. Elena (Piltranco, Amihan Express, Daet Express, fare: PhP500.00), get off at a junction called Batobalani in Jose Panganiban town, ride a tricycle to the port of Paracale (fare: PhP20.00) then look for boats going to Tinaga Island (PhP100.00 fare) or rent a boat to the island (PhP3,000.00 boat rental rate).
the nearest jump-off point to Calaguas Island is via the gold mine town of Paracale, where you can even drop by the rural white beach of Maculabo Island
Daily Boat schedule to Calaguas:
Paracale Port to Brgy. Mangcawayan: 1pm (be there early, Fare: PhP100.00)
Brgy. Mangcawayan to Paracale: 7am (fare: PhP100.00
One trip only, travel time is between 2 to 3 hours
Fees, Fares, Rates:
Beach Entrance Fee: Php 100/head (per day)
Cottage Rental: PhP300.00
Baranggay fee: PhP20.00
Calaguas Island can also be reach by a boat ride, about two hours, from Daet's Bagasbas Beach
Calaguas Island package tours are offered by tour operators and local travel agencies. there's no such thing as calaguas itinerary since all you do in the island is swim and do island hopping
There are hotels on Calaguas Island, resorts are not yet there too.
NOTE (updated May 2013):
Tutubi went back to Calaguas Island Mahabang Buhangin in 2012 and saw development being made there, a part of the white beach was bought, reportedly by Shangri-la resort (but unconfirmed). Foreign plants like a green grass was being planted right on the beach that will someday wreck havoc on Calaguas Island eco-system, being an exotic plant species to the island.
many recent blog posts on calaguas Island reports garbage left by backpackers and usual tourists alike, development of the area (which will someday make the beach exclusive to the future Calaguas Island Resort) and off-limits to the public.
Should Tutubi publish a requiem to Calaguas Island now?
Labels: Beaches, Bicol Region, Camarines Norte, Islands
posted by GingGoy @ 6:02 PM,
,
Bicol Cuisine ala Survivor Philippines
19 May 2008
Cooking the Bicolano food is not complete without the ubiquitous coconut and chili. During the Camarines tour, Tutubi and his friends were again introduced to authentic cuisine of the Bicol region using fresh catch from the sea bought from local fishermen.
Simple Bicol dishes are made from traditional recipes with the two earlier mentioned key ingredients: coconut milk and chili
Tutubi, took too long doing something that he wasn't able to take a photo of the coconut being pried open and grated the old-fashined way using a kudkuran (coconut grater). He was only able to capture the on "film" grated coconut being milked
traditional way of milking coconut done on a remote island. notice also kalabasa (squash) being cut into pieces
coconut milk put into a skillet then brought to a boil
the victim...err..main ingredient of lunch: a still alive crab with pincers tied together
coconut milk mixed with crabs, sliced squash, large green chili and other ingredients Tutubi wasn't able to keep tabs on due to his already growling stomach
not unique to Bicol but this adobong pusit (squid) is also tempting
Bicol's most famous dish, Bicol express, whose main flavoring ingredient is bagoong alamang (fermented shrimp), wasn't served that day but laing (taro leaves in coconut milk) was sampled as well as sinantol (grated wild mangosteen in coconut milk with smoked fish, different from Tutubi's favorite sinantol recipe from his hometown using bagoong alamang).
Thanks to Tutubi's friend from Daet who toured the group, and cooked food for them stranded souls on a remote island in a scene similar to the upcoming Survivor Philippines!
---
Other noteworthy Bicolano dishes include tinumok (taro leaves in coconut cream with chopped river shrimps and strips of young coconut), pinangat (taro leaves in coconut milk with chopped pork or smoked fish), and sinanglay (using roasted grated coconut, with dressing made from coco milk mixed in with vinegar for the blanched sliced puso ng saging (banana heart))
Simple Bicol dishes are made from traditional recipes with the two earlier mentioned key ingredients: coconut milk and chili
Tutubi, took too long doing something that he wasn't able to take a photo of the coconut being pried open and grated the old-fashined way using a kudkuran (coconut grater). He was only able to capture the on "film" grated coconut being milked
traditional way of milking coconut done on a remote island. notice also kalabasa (squash) being cut into pieces
coconut milk put into a skillet then brought to a boil
the victim...err..main ingredient of lunch: a still alive crab with pincers tied together
coconut milk mixed with crabs, sliced squash, large green chili and other ingredients Tutubi wasn't able to keep tabs on due to his already growling stomach
not unique to Bicol but this adobong pusit (squid) is also temptingBicol's most famous dish, Bicol express, whose main flavoring ingredient is bagoong alamang (fermented shrimp), wasn't served that day but laing (taro leaves in coconut milk) was sampled as well as sinantol (grated wild mangosteen in coconut milk with smoked fish, different from Tutubi's favorite sinantol recipe from his hometown using bagoong alamang).
Thanks to Tutubi's friend from Daet who toured the group, and cooked food for them stranded souls on a remote island in a scene similar to the upcoming Survivor Philippines!
---
Other noteworthy Bicolano dishes include tinumok (taro leaves in coconut cream with chopped river shrimps and strips of young coconut), pinangat (taro leaves in coconut milk with chopped pork or smoked fish), and sinanglay (using roasted grated coconut, with dressing made from coco milk mixed in with vinegar for the blanched sliced puso ng saging (banana heart))
Labels: Bicol, Bicol Cuisine, Camarines Norte, Filipino Food
posted by GingGoy @ 10:45 PM,
,
Bicol: Apuao Grande Island Resort, Mercedes, Camarines Norte
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 board 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.
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.
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. 
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.
Labels: Beaches, Bicol Region, Camarines Norte, Islands
posted by GingGoy @ 12:01 AM,
,
Sun, Sand and Surf on Bagasbas Beach in Daet, Camarines Norte
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 want 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 to Bagasbas Beach, Daet, Camarines Norte:
From Manila, take Superlines, Daet Express, Philtranco, or Raymond Transportation bus to Daet.
Take a tricycle to Bagasbas Beach, it's just a tricycle ride away from Daet town proper.
Related Post:
Surfing Beaches in the Philippines
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 want 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 to Bagasbas Beach, Daet, Camarines Norte:
From Manila, take Superlines, Daet Express, Philtranco, or Raymond Transportation bus to Daet.
Take a tricycle to Bagasbas Beach, it's just a tricycle ride away from Daet town proper.
Related Post:
Surfing Beaches in the Philippines
Labels: Beaches, Bicol Region, Camarines Norte, Surfing, Water Sports
posted by GingGoy @ 10:29 PM,
,
Camarines Norte: The Cold Waters of Mampurog River in Club Noah, San Lorenzo Ruiz
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.
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 Region, Camarines Norte, Rivers
posted by GingGoy @ 9:31 PM,
,
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: PhP550 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 Superlines 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.
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: PhP550 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 Superlines 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.
Labels: Bicol, Bicol Region, Camarines Norte, Daet
posted by GingGoy @ 9:57 PM,
,
Review: PAL Express
01 May 2008
In an apparent direct competition to SeAir and Asian Spirit, Philippine Airlines recently spun off a low budget subsidiary named PAL Express using small turbo-prop planes to service small islands already being served by the two earlier named airlines.
According to PAL Express Official website, the newest budget carrier on the block operates "nine turbo-propeller aircraft – three Bombardier Q300s and six Bombardier Q400s – manufactured by Bombardier Aerospace of Canada."
Tutubi saw an actual airplane of PAL Express but wasn't fast enough to get his camera inside the camera bag before it disappered in sight and later obstructed by a Cebu Pacific A320. A picture of DH4 is available here while a DH3 picture can be found here or from PAL Express' official website.
DH4 is the code designator for the Bombardier Q400, a Dash 8 variant while DH3 is for Bombardier Q300. DH3 has 50 seating capacity while DH4 can seat 76 passengers. De Havilland Canada DHC-8 Dash 8-400
For Promotional fare (UPR) for PAL EXPRESS flights, the promos are posted on PAL Express' official website along with the following information:
"Baggage Allowance: 10 kilos
PAL Express tickets do not earn Miles.
Free baggage allowance for Mabuhay Miles Elite, Premier Elite and Million Miler members shall not be extended on PAL Express flights.
SportsPlus benefits shall not be extended on PAL Express flights."
No information yet on PAL Express Excess Baggage charge but probably the same PhP100.00/kilogram of excess luggage applies.
Manila to Busuanga, Palawan (the gateway to Coron): once a day
Manila to Calbayog, Samar once a day
Manila to Caticlan (Boracay) 8x a day
Manila to San Jose once a day
Manila to Surigao once a day
Manila to Virac, Catanduanes once a day
Manila to Ormoc City, Leyte Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Cebu to Bacolod, Negros: twice a day
Cebu to Butuan, Agusan, Caraga: once a day
Cebu to Caticlan, Boracay: once a day
Cebu to Cagayan de Oro (CDO): once a day
Cebu to Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte: MWF 3x a week
Cebu to Gen. Santos: once a day
Cebu to Ozamiz: once a day
Cebu to Puerto Princesa, Palawan: once a day
Cebu to Tacloban, Leyte: once a day
Cebu to Zamboanga: Daily, once a day
For the airports used by PAL Express flights, refer to the airport list here
For updated PAL Express Flight Schedules and destinations, click here.
Contact Email: webmgr@pal.com.ph; corpcomm@pal.com.ph
PAL Express Hotline can't be located but you may try calling these telephone numbers: +633.2556.1890; 777-4800 loc 5401 or fax +63.2.556.1892
Review and Comments: Tutubi has yet to actually experience flying via PAL Express, but similar to airlines using turbo-props, expect yourself to be weighed together with your carry-on luggage in order to balance the aircraft in flight. This is also done by Cebu Pacific in their ATR aircraft, Asian Spirit and SeAir. Expect also gut-wrenching experience particularly in "bumpy" rides on windy days and usual gales and air pockets. Note this experience is worse in smaller planes of SeAir and Asian Spirit. Information on actual ticket prices, taxes, surcharges and hidden charges will be posted here once available.
According to PAL Express Official website, the newest budget carrier on the block operates "nine turbo-propeller aircraft – three Bombardier Q300s and six Bombardier Q400s – manufactured by Bombardier Aerospace of Canada."
Tutubi saw an actual airplane of PAL Express but wasn't fast enough to get his camera inside the camera bag before it disappered in sight and later obstructed by a Cebu Pacific A320. A picture of DH4 is available here while a DH3 picture can be found here or from PAL Express' official website.
DH4 is the code designator for the Bombardier Q400, a Dash 8 variant while DH3 is for Bombardier Q300. DH3 has 50 seating capacity while DH4 can seat 76 passengers. De Havilland Canada DHC-8 Dash 8-400
For Promotional fare (UPR) for PAL EXPRESS flights, the promos are posted on PAL Express' official website along with the following information:
"Baggage Allowance: 10 kilos
PAL Express tickets do not earn Miles.
Free baggage allowance for Mabuhay Miles Elite, Premier Elite and Million Miler members shall not be extended on PAL Express flights.
SportsPlus benefits shall not be extended on PAL Express flights."
No information yet on PAL Express Excess Baggage charge but probably the same PhP100.00/kilogram of excess luggage applies.
Manila to Busuanga, Palawan (the gateway to Coron): once a day
Manila to Calbayog, Samar once a day
Manila to Caticlan (Boracay) 8x a day
Manila to San Jose once a day
Manila to Surigao once a day
Manila to Virac, Catanduanes once a day
Manila to Ormoc City, Leyte Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Cebu to Bacolod, Negros: twice a day
Cebu to Butuan, Agusan, Caraga: once a day
Cebu to Caticlan, Boracay: once a day
Cebu to Cagayan de Oro (CDO): once a day
Cebu to Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte: MWF 3x a week
Cebu to Gen. Santos: once a day
Cebu to Ozamiz: once a day
Cebu to Puerto Princesa, Palawan: once a day
Cebu to Tacloban, Leyte: once a day
Cebu to Zamboanga: Daily, once a day
For the airports used by PAL Express flights, refer to the airport list here
For updated PAL Express Flight Schedules and destinations, click here.
Contact Email: webmgr@pal.com.ph; corpcomm@pal.com.ph
PAL Express Hotline can't be located but you may try calling these telephone numbers: +633.2556.1890; 777-4800 loc 5401 or fax +63.2.556.1892
Review and Comments: Tutubi has yet to actually experience flying via PAL Express, but similar to airlines using turbo-props, expect yourself to be weighed together with your carry-on luggage in order to balance the aircraft in flight. This is also done by Cebu Pacific in their ATR aircraft, Asian Spirit and SeAir. Expect also gut-wrenching experience particularly in "bumpy" rides on windy days and usual gales and air pockets. Note this experience is worse in smaller planes of SeAir and Asian Spirit. Information on actual ticket prices, taxes, surcharges and hidden charges will be posted here once available.
Labels: Airlines, PAL Express
posted by GingGoy @ 9:01 PM,
,