Last december, Tutubi received a box of goodies from his contacts from Philippine Business Bank that contained mostly juice products from Zest-O, but knowing that the same company is behing ZestAir jokingly looked for a free plane ticket to his choice destination (of course, his business contacts still don't know he's the blogger behind this travel blog)


An Asian Spirit flight to Boracay in 2008

Lately, some of Tutubi's friends asked him about ZestAir, the newest kid on the block of the booming airline industry, and simply told them it's Asian Spirit bought by the juice magnate Alfredo Yao, that's why it was renamed Zest Airways or ZestAir for short.

ZestAir check-in counter at Legazpi Airport

As of posting time, ZestAir services the following routes:

Manila to Caticlan (Boracay)
Manila to Bacolod (Negros Occidental)
Manila to Busuanga (coron, Northern Palawan)
Manila to Calbayog (Samar)
Manila to Catarman (Northern Samar)
Manila to Cebu
Manila to Davao
Manila to Iloilo
Manila to Kalibo, Aklan
Manila to Legaspi City, Albay (Bicol)
Manila to Marinduque
Manila to Naga, camarines Sur (Bicol)
Manila to Puerto Princesa (Palawan)
Manila to San Jose, Romblon
Manila to Tacloban, Leyte
Manila to Tagbilaran, Bohol
Manila to virac, Catanduanes (Bicol)

ZestAir's Manila to Basco flights were cancelled lately and no information is available on the resumption to Batanes. Please visit their official website for flight schedules and routes.

Zest Airways aircraft are Airbus A320 (same as those used by Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines), Xian MA60, turboprop (propeller) aircraft made by China's Xi'an Aircraft Industrial Corporation under the China Aviation Industry Corporation I (AVIC I) with capacity of 60 passengers and De Havilland Dash-7 aircraft (those small planes used by the former Asian Spirit)


ZestAir MA60 airplane

With the acquisition of the Airbus A320, ZestAir left behind SeAir and can now challenge Cebu Pacific in the price wars on domestic and soon international destinations.

Zest Airways fly out of Manila Domestic Terminal (the old Domestic Airport)

For reservation, call ZestAir hotline +63.2.855.3333

ZestAir Baggage allowance is 15kgs (A320) or 10 kgs (MA60) depending on route and aircraft used.

ZestAir excess baggage charges is at PhP80/kilogram + 12% VAT.

They currently offer promo fares on sale competing with Cebu Pacific's own promotional airfare offering!

As of posting time, Tutubi has not experienced flying ZestAir so can't give feedback on customer service. Should you have reviews of ZestAir, negative feedback, bad experiences, even safety/accident records of Xian MA60 aircraft, please don't hesitate to leave comments.

Related Post:

How to Get to Manila Domestic Airport

Labels: Airlines, ZestAir

Summer time, and company outing again for Tutubi and his officemates. This time, they were treated and pampered at a resort on the historic beach of Lingayen, Pangasinan: El Puerto Marina Resort and Spa

Located on Lingayen Gulf's long beachfront with fine gray sand with waves suitable for newbie surfing, El Puerto Marina provided the welcome respite from tired corporate slaves.

El Puerto Marina Pictures

Deluxe Accommodations at El Puerto Marina Resort and Spa. On the ground floor are the three massage rooms, spa with steam bath

A row of huts with a fishpond

the salt water swimming pool with odd green color possibly with algae
Lingayen beach is typical Pangasinan and Zambales: fine gray sand with waves suitable for surfing school

El Puerto Marina Beach Resort Review:

Accommodations: Tutubi's room is good for 4 persons with 2 single beds with little space in between plus a double-decker. It's suited more for budget-conscious families or for company outings. Rooms were clean though the beds need to be a little wider. The other rooms, more expensive are not like that though.

Food: The first buffet meal, a must for Tutubi's company, was miscalculated for the number of persons reserved and had to add more food to satiate Tutubi's voracious officemates. The resort management made up for it the next meals. There's an ice cream machine for the kids. Food was generally fine and the waiters/servers polite.

Facilities: the swimming pool is a little small for all large companies, saltwater system with green color possibly due to algae. The pool needs to be lit by a spotlight or in-pool lighting at night. The place has a large activity area and lawn suitable for team-building activities and games. Surf boards can be rented as well as ATVs, fishing rods (plus bait) and kayaks. The videoke is projected on a large screen to the delight of videoke-crazy people.

Price: accommodations are more for budget-conscious people though the rooms near the fishpond are more expensive and private. Beer costs PhP60.00/bottle, a little pricey for the place.

Overall: As earlier mentioned, it's not a cheap resort but a mid-end one. Companies looking for alternative summer outing destination can find the resort tailor-fit for their budget though it's about 4 hours from Manila via NLEX-SCTEx-Tarlac and about an hour to the Hundred Islands in Alaminos, Pangasinan.

Related Post:
Hundred Islands National Park

Labels: Beaches, Hotels and Resorts, Ilocos Region, Pangasinan, Resorts

Despite the world economic crisis, a big name in the resort business that developed Phuket in Thailand is investing in the Philippines' Diwaran Island, part of the Calamian Group of Islands in northern Palawan.

When Inquirer.net bannered the story, Tutubi immediately recognized the islet as one of the magnificent sights he saw in Coron and was able to capture with his camera in 2004: azure waters, cerulean skies, magnificent limestone formations and underwater world teeming with fishes and corals, all within 20 minutes from Coron town.

limestone island of Coron Palawan (photo taken in 2004)

The project is said to cost about $200M in an area of 55 hectares and targeted to be finished by 2012. It's expected to provide jobs to locals in the hope the area to be another tourism magnet to rival Phuket of Thailand. The island resort will have a total of 600 keys, three spas, a marina, and a town center with recreation facilities and restaurants.

Banyan Tree resorts are found in Phuket, Thailand; Maldives Vabbinfaru; Bintan, Indonesia; Bangkok, Thailand; Seychelles; Ringha, China; Lijiang, China; Bahrain, and Maldives Madivaru. The flagship Banyan Tree Phuket introduced the first tropical garden spa concept.

The problem with the development of the islet, it means the area will be off-limits to backpackers exploring the island on their own. The nearby island, where you can find Cayangan Lake, however, is part of the Tagbanua people's ancestral domain and will still be open to tourists.

Related Post:
Coron, Palawan

Labels: Hotels and Resorts, Mimaropa, Palawan, Southern Tagalog, Tourism News

Imagine visiting a place where all your negative emotions, thoughts and impediments to achieving your goals can be buried. A cemetery where no former living thing is buried but where you'll find tombs with funny yet thought-provoking epitaphs inscribed on tombstones. It's a place where you can bury your negative traits and thoughts where you'll end not grieving and instead make you a better person.



Welcome to the Cemetery of Negativism, sometimes called Lost Cemetery, part of Camp John Hay Historic Core that includes the historic Bell House and Amphitheater.



The welcome "tombstone" states: "Negativism is man's greatest sel-imposed infliction, his most limiting factor, his heaviest burden.

No more, for here is buried the world's negativism for all time. those who rest here have died not in vain - but for you a stern reminder -- as you leave this hill remember that the rest of your life, Be more positive.

have a good day! - Treat today like it's your last - though it's the first of the rest...
CJH"



Some of the "buried" negativisms in a slideshow:

After the interment of your negativisms, negative traits and bad vibes, leave them all there, never resurrect again. Your highway to achieving your goals may have now been cleared of unnecessary obstructions and be able to harness the power of positive thinking.


Entrance fee to the whole Historic Core is PhP20.00 per head (PhP15.00 for students and senior citizens). Park is open from 8am to 5pm from Mondays to Sundays.

How to get to Camp John Hay:

Besides, The Lost Cemetery, Camp John Hay boasts of two hotels, the upscale The Manor Hotel and the mid-end The Forest Lodge, a Butterfly garden and the historic Bell House and Bell Amphitheater.

To get to Camp John Hay,, take a jeepney plying the route Baguio Plaza - Scout Barrio and request the driver to drop you off at the gate then walk towards Cam John Hay historic core. If you're three of four, best to take taxi as it's almost the same with jeepney fare summed in total

Related Posts:
Driving Directions to Baguio
Flights to Baguio
Bell Church: Taoist Temple in Baguio
Panagbenga Flower Festival

Labels: Baguio City, Cemeteries, Cordillera Administrative Region

Thinking of ditching the more than 6 hour bus ride and instead fly to Baguio? Problem is there are no longer regular flights to Baguio as discussed on various blogs and websites. Asian Spirit, now called ZestAir, the only airline servicing the Manila to Baguio flight route, stopped the service due to many reasons: commercial, reliability and safety.

Most people from Metro Manila prefer the 6 to 7 hour bus ride or bring their own vehicle to visit the City of Pines high up the mountain. Baguio's Airport, called Loakan Airport, suffers from mountain weather problem i.e. flights get canceled easily when fog covers the airport which is a common occurrence. This is very unacceptable for businessmen who have no time to endure the long bus ride to Baguio.

Camp John Hay, located on Loakan Road, lies on the flight path of airplanes going to Baguio that's why Tutubi was able to get a hurried, silhouette-like (since he found no time to adjust his camera settings), shot of the airplane against the gray, cloudy sky of Baguio.



People may, however, get chartered flights to Baguio though not cheap. From Baguio Airport to the city it's easy for there are taxis waiting at the exit gate of Loakan Airport.

The nearest airport to Baguio as an alternative to Loakan airport is the newly-upgraded San Fernando Airport in La Union province but still, no commercial flights from Manila, Cebu or Davao fly to La Union airport. Asian Spirit, now ZestAir, used to fly from Manila to San Fernando but ceased offering prior to the airport upgrade. Philippine Airlines signified intentions last year to service the route but commercial operation is still not present (Tutubi tried a mock flight booking but found no flights to La Union). No news still for Cebu Pacific Airlines, SeAir or other airlines. Once flights to San Fernando Airport are offered commercially, you book flights to San Fernando then ride a bus to Baguio City. This option is best for those coming from Visayas and Mindanao. For now, only chartered flights from private companies use the airport.

Will post updated information on this in the future...

Related Post:
Related Posts:
Driving Directions to Baguio
The Manor Camp John Hay
Cemetery of Negativism
Bell Church: Taoist Temple in Baguio
Panagbenga Flower Festival

Labels: Airports, Baguio City, Cordillera Administrative Region

Probably the most luxurious hotel in the City of Pines, The Manor at Camp John Hay high up in Baguio City was the home of Tutubi for 4D/3N but mostly spent attending a recent convention leaving no time for him to explore more of Baguio's other charming attractions.

Tutubi left Manila around 8am and passed by NLEX, SCTEx then the winding snake-like Kennon road to reach Baguio in less than 5 hours where the cozy room of The Manor welcomed him.

the cozy, inviting room where Tutubi slept for three nights all by for himself

the refreshing view outside the room with a garden suitable for events and garden weddings with a man-made waterfall's gushing sound for a relaxing ambiance

down in the garden with the veranda in view

CAP-John Hay Trade Center, the venue of Tutubi's conference

Review of The Manor, Camp John Jay:

Rooms: very cozy with a good view. Tutubi requested for a garden view that's why he has that view of the place. There's no bathtub, something Tutubi looks forward to in a plush hotel where he loves to spend time on.

Food Prices: to give you an idea how much it is to eat at Camp John Hay, the menu has salads priced from PhP200 - 400; soups at PhP150 - 200; pasta PhP414 (in servings good for 2 people); desserts at PhP150-207; Set Filipino breakfast costs PhP250 - 380 while buffet breakfast costs PhP550/person if it's not included in your room accommodations cost.

Food was ok, though not really outstanding except the salads with very fresh greens with vinaigrette with a a little sweet hint that Tutubi loved. Fresh strawberries, in season, were also served but quickly emptied from their trays.

Service was fast with staff courteous. One very helpful lady was Des, the convention manager, for her accommodating kindness but Tutubi found out she resigned and due to transfer to hotel near NAIA Terminal 3.

Other facilities inside Camp John Hay include a junior golf course (if you want a full golf course, there's Baguio Country Club nearby), the Camp John Hay Historic Core with the Cemetery of Negativism, Bell Amphitheater, Bell House, Art Park, Mini Camp John Hay, and a Butterfly Sanctuary (entrance fee of PhP40.00 but stupid opening time of 10am when most butterflies are getting ready to sleep)

Tip: If you're looking for cheap package and discounts, book at The Manor during the lean months of July to September for 40% discount on published rates.

For room rates, reservations and other inquiries, visit The Manor Camp John Hay's official website.

How to get to Camp John Hay:

Commuting to Camp John Hay is easy with jeepneys going to Mines View Park pass by the gate but requires some walking to get to the hotel. The best way still is to flag a taxi in Baguio city center. It's mostly accessible from Kennon Road then turn right on Loakan Road.

Related Posts:
Driving Directions to Baguio
Flights to Baguio
Cemetery of Negativism
Bell Church: Taoist Temple in Baguio
Panagbenga Flower Festival

Labels: Baguio City, Benguet, Cordillera, Cordillera Administrative Region, Hotels, Hotels and Resorts

Going to Baguio City with your own vehicle? Here's an updated route guide for you to get to Baguio the fastest and safest way via the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway or SCTEx for short.

Driving Directions to Baguio via SCTEx:

From EDSA going to Monumento, turn right towards NLEX, drive towards the end of the modern tollway, take Dau exit toll gate and follow the SCTEx spur, pay the toll fees. Turn right on seeing direction signs to Tarlac City. On reaching the end of the expressway, turn left then right on MacArthur Highway.

From Tarlac City or Gerona, continue driving along MacArthur Highway, pass by Tarlac towns of Paniqui, Moncada, San Manuel, Carmen Rosales, Villasis, Urdaneta City (where a road leads to Manaoag), Pozzorubio, Sison, then the town of Rosario, La Union province.
The welcome arch of the Province of La Union

On seeing a police station and a cockfight arena/coliseum in Rosario, you'll be facing a dilema whether to choose to turn right to get to Baguio via Kennon Road which is about 40 minutes from Kennon Road Toll Gate. If you choose left, you may take Marcos Highway to Baguio via Pugo (or the older entry point via Agoo) or drive all the way to La Union, and Ilocos (Vigan, Laoag, Pagudpud).

Which is better: Kennon Road or Marcos Highway?

If you're vehicle has a small engine displacement hence less power, take Kennon road due to less incline than Marcos Highway but not during the rainy season when Kennon Road is more prone to landslides and thus unreliable and dangerous. Marcos Highway, now called Aspiras Highway, is more reliable, lesser sharp turns and though longer than Kennon, takes almost the same time to reach Baguio City. Buses going to Baguio take Marcos Highway.

Kennon road is recommended if you're heading to Camp John Hay, Baguio Country Club and Mines View which is on the eastern side of Baguio for you will be able to avoid heavy traffic in The City of Pine's downtown area.

Kennon Road has the Lion's Head while Marcos Highway has the busted bust of former president Ferdinand Marcos. You'll encounter fog on both these highways in the afternoon.
Giant Lion's head on Kennon Road, the first time Tutubi saw it for he always pass by Marcos Highway

Travel tip: Drop by Shell Select Station in Rosario, La Union for the road traffic advisory of Kennon Road, Marcos Highway, Naguilian roads. A short stop at the gasoline station can save you hours of frustration if you got stuck in traffic.

Alternate route to Baguio (longer but faster during the day or avoid heavy traffic in Tarlac City and Hacienda Luisita), on exit from SCTEx, turn right to the road going to Gapan-Cabanatuan and turn left when you see direction signs of alternate route to Baguio via Victoria town. At the end of the road, turn right where you'll see Victoria town plaza then left again immediately to the first road (there are signs so you won't get lost pointing to the alternate route to Baguio via Pura, Ramos and Paniqui). At the end of the road turn left to follow the route via Gerona (another route is via Guimba if you turned right). You will then turn right on MacArthur Highway (landmark: Petron Gas Station at the corner) effectively bypassing traffic in Tarlac City, even Isdaan Floating Restaurant in Gerona, the home to Taksiyapo). This route is just an hour from NLEX Dau exit and recommended during the day when traffic is heavy in Tarlac City. From there, follow directions stated above up to La Union and the choice of either Kennon Road or Marcos Highway.

From Baguio to other destinations

Baguio to Pagudpud can be reached via Naguilian road and Bauang, La Union.

Baguio to Sagada-Bontoc-Banaue route is via La trinidad Road and Halsema Highway which is about 6 hours away.

Note: future updates of this post will include waypoints/tracks for GPS users

Related Posts:
The Manor Camp John Hay
Flights to Baguio
Cemetery of Negativism
Bell Church: Taoist Temple in Baguio
Panagbenga Flower Festival

Labels: Baguio City, Cordillera Administrative Region

Whether you're going to Subic Bay, Clark, Tarlac, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Baguio, Pangasinan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Zambales, Bataan from Manila, nothing beats Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway in getting you there faster than the old, traditional routes.

Herewith is a map of SCTEx for your information as well as updated SCTEx toll fees and other information contained in brochure handed out at SCTEx toll gates:


the SCTEx map showing location of toll exits in relation with MacArthur Highway and NLEX


SCTEx Emergency Telephone Numbers:
+63.920.96-SCTEX
+63.45.865.2030

SCTEx Hotlines
+63.2. 362.9997
+63.2.362.2246


Minimum speed allowed on SCTEx is 60 kph while Maximum Speed limit is pegged at 100kph so speedsters beware of overspeeding tickets.

Related Post:

Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway

Labels: Roads and Highways

For those looking for extra adrenaline rush and muscle-flexing beyond the usual beach bumming, there are many known and unknown places in the Philippines where waves can be found that surfers, both local and foreign, will find challenging. Herewith is a list of surfing spots, both for newbies and surfers looking for "killer waves," gathered from various sources including various travel shows on TV.

Best Surfing Beaches in the Philippines:

Aurora: Baler's Sabang and Cemento Beach
If the ending scene of Francis Ford Copola's movie "Apocalypse Now" was shot in Pagsanjan Falls, Baler's beach was the location shoot of the surfing scene. To get there, board a Manila to Baler bus of Genesis Transport bus (terminal on EDSA, Pasay City) or a flight to Baler via SeAir.

Camarines Norte: Bagasbas Beach in Daet,
A surfing beach in the Bicol Region ideal for surfing lessons with fine black sand. It can be reached by buses going to Daet (Amihan, Philtranco and Superlines) followed by a short tricycle ride to the beach facing the vast Pacific Ocean.

Surfer on a surfboard on Bagasbas Beach

Catanduanes: Puraran Beach, Baras
Known in the international surfing circuit as "Majestic," with its awesome long-barrel waves made spectacular by visiting typhoons

Eastern Samar: Calicoan Island, Guiuan,
The home of The Surf Camp with ABCD Beach has both left-hand and right-hand waves. Surfing season runs from April to November

Eastern Samar: Macate Island and San Vicente, Sulat town
An "off the beaten track" surfing destination without the surfing tourist crowd in the town of Sulat, Eastern Samar is Macate Island (and San Vicente) where about eight feet high waves welcoming surfers can on a deserted beach. To get to Sulat, book a flight to Tacloban City, from Tacloban Airport, get on the San Jose jeep to Duptours terminal or Tacloban Bus Terminal, followed by a van ride to Borongan (via Duptours with regular trips to Borongan via plus another jeepney to Sulat) or bus to Borongan to take you to straight to Sulat, Eastern Samar.

Ilocos Norte: Maira-Ira Beach, Pagudpud
In an secret area in Pagudpud known as Blue Lagoon. It can be reached by boat from Pagudpud's Saud Beach

Ilocos Sur: Kido's Point, Cabugao
Kido's Point, after Cabugao's surfing hero Kido Cabasug, is another popular surfing site in Ilocos Sur.

La Union: San Juan
Perfect place for longboarders. It can be reached by any bus to Ilocos (Vigan, Laoag, Pagudpud) and drop off near the San Fernando-San Juan boundary.

Sorsogon: Gubat Bay, Gubat
Located in the Bicol Peninsula in Gubat, Sorsogon south of Legazpi City, it faces the San Juanico Strait. It has three kilometers of gray-sand beach very good for surfing school.

Surigao del Norte: Siargao Island
Known as "The Surfing Capital of the Philippines" with the world-famous Cloud 9 waves of General Luna town facing the Pacific Ocean. Cloud Nine was named after a chocolate bar that surfers kept in their shorts. The surfing beach offers a powerful hollow right hander hailed as one of the ten best waves in the world comparable to the renowned surf of Hawaii and Indonesia. Besides Clud Nine, there's Jacking Horse, Tuason Left, Rock Island, Stimpies and Pacifico. Best time for surfing in Siargao is from August up to the start of November due to the presence of typhoon swells and winds. Waves are smaller from May to July while December to April the winds are strong with pretty big swell preferred by some surfers.

Surigao del Sur: Lanuza Bay,
With waves as high as 15 feet, it's known "Doot Poktoy." Alternatives to Siargao includes Lanuza Rivermouth, Sabang, Moshimoshi left and right, Badjang-BigStar

Zambales: San Narciso and Pundaquit, San Antonio
Good for newbie surfers, the beaches of Brgy Pundaquit in San Antonio and of San Narciso beckons Metro Manilans due to its proximity.

Skimboarding in the Phlippines:

Skimboarding (or skimming), another water sport gaining popularity is some areas is a boardsport in which a skimboard (a sort of little surfboard) is used to ride on an incoming wave.

Note that the places listed above are also ideal for skimboarding where the towns of Tanauan and Dulag in Leyte is gaining popularity.

Want to learn how to surf without heading for the beach?

For furfing lessons nearest Metro Manila, OceanWaves at Club Manila Eastin Taytay Rizal offers surfing lessons by appointment-only basis. Call 6312805 or 3575452 for details, cost and other inquiries. Facilities include a 14-ft-deep diving pool with four diving platforms and a 20-ft-high waterfall; and a 30-m wide, 76-m long family wave pool that’s only 4 ft deep. OceanWaves is open every day with two-hour surfing lessons scheduled at 8-10 a.m., 10 a.m.-12 noon and 2-4 p.m.

Labels: Aurora, Beaches, Boardsports, Camarines Norte, Catanduanes, Eastern Samar, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Sorsogon, Surfing, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Zambales

Who wants to be a Millionaire? Such is the the title of the popular TV game where the Oscar-award winning movie Slumdog Millinaire's plot revolved around.

Slumdog millionaire is about the story of Jamal Malik's rise to fame winning the largest prize of Who wants to be a Millionaire, his brother Salim and Jamal's childhood sweetheart, Latika. He was able to give the right answers to all the questions because of his memories associated with events in his life as a slumdog.

What got the curiosity of Tutubi for a long time about the movie was that it was shot in places he himself was able to visit during his three week stay in Mumbai, the present name of the city of Bombay.


Slumdog Millionaire Trailer

The movie started in the slums of Mumbai, located only a few meters from modern skyscrapers offering a bleak contrast to the wealth of the place, India's economic center. There they became orphans with the killing of their mother by people hunting Muslims, turned into street beggars by a crimelord named Maman who they narrowly-escaped when he tried to blind Jamal (blind singers earn double working as beggars on the streets)

Street-smart brothers were able to hitch a ride on a train that took them to heaven...err...the world famous Taj Mahal in Agra (a place Tutubi wanted to visit then but didn't get there due to sheer distance from Mumbai if he traveled by train or dampened by the prohibitive cost of airfare) where they learned much money working as tourist guides.

The sight of the Dhobi Ghat, the largest in Uttar Pradesh, (There is a street and MRT station named Dhobi Ghaut in Singapore) is an awesome sight, made up of open wash tubs for washing clothes and linens, unique to India.

Just after killing the gangster Maman, the brothers plus Latika checked in at Tulip Star hotel; again a "memorable" one since it's the hotel where Tutubi stayed on his first day in Mumbai, but later transferred to the better Taj Lands End Hotel, a sister-hotel of Taj Mahal Hotel that gained world-wide attention during the recent Mumbai terrorist attacks.

The tryst place of Jamal and Latika turned out to be the UNESCO-listed Victoria Terminus, a grand train station sporting a Victorian architecture that Tutubi also was able to visit.

the majestic Victoria Terminus in Mumbai, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Of course, Tutubi won't narrate how the story ended including the climax (and thus Slumdog Millionaire's synopsis for your reaction paper if you're looking for one) to avoid being a total spoiler. He can only reveal it ended on a Bollywood note: dancing and singing with quirky movements of Indian traditional dance, beat and rhythm.

All in all, the plot, direction and actors/actresses were really outstanding even the child actors. A recommended for everybody for entertainment and for those wishing for a free tour or India from Mumbai to Taj Mahal in Agra.

Note:
to read more about Tutubi's Incredible India escapade, please click on the India link below the header

Labels: India, Slumdog Millionaire

For those looking for the 5th ANILAG FESTIVAL 2009 Schedule of Activities, plus information on how to get to Laguna Capitol grounds in Sta. Cruz town.

5th ANILAG FESTIVAL 2009 Schedule of Activities
Theme: "Disenyo Sa Laguna"
Provincial Government of Laguna
Provincial Capitol Compound, Santa Cruz, Laguna
March 08 – 15, 2009

Mar. 08 (Sun) Soft Opening
4:00 pm Santacruzan sa Anilag
6:00 pm Mass
7:00 pm Comedy Show
Mar. 09 (Mon) DAY 1
5:00 am Unang Hirit GMA 7
8:00 am Grand Opening ANILAG FESTIVAL 2009
9:00 am Opening: Trade Fair Exhibit / Competition
10:00 am Animal Farm (Whole Week)
1:00 pm Choral Group Competition Senior Citizen
2:00 pm Landscaping Competition
5:00 pm Street Dance
11:00 pm Fireworks Display
Mar. 10 (Tue) DAY 2
9:00 am Palarong Pinoy
1:00 pm Amateur Singing Contest
4:00 pm Body Building
4:00 pm Santacruzan sa Anilag
5:00 pm Amazing Laguneños (Mga Kakaibang Laguneño)
6:00 pm Gawad Youth (Cultural Center)
7:00 pm Gawad Sining (Cultural Center)
9:00 pm Laguna Star Quest
Mar. 11 (Wed) DAY 3
7:00 am Drum & Lyre Competition
9:00 am Palarong Pinoy
1:00 pm Amateur Singing Contest
4:00 pm Santacruzan sa Anilag
5:00 pm Amazing Laguneños (Mga Kakaibang Laguneño)
7:00 pm Little Mister Laguna 2009
10:00 pm Dance Showdown
Mar. 12 (Thu) DAY 4
9:00 am Palarong Pinoy
1:00 pm Amateur Singing Contest
4:00 pm Santacruzan sa Anilag
5:00 pm Amazing Laguneños (Mga Kakaibang Laguneño)
7:00 pm Little Miss Laguna 2009
10:00 pm Fashion Show
Mar. 13 (Fri) DAY 5
5:00 am Mass Calisthenics
7:00 am Biggest Kesong Puti
8:00 am Teachers' Dance Contest - Duets
9:00 am Palarong Pinoy
1:00 pm Amateur Singing Contest
4:00 pm Santacruzan sa Anilag
5:00 pm Amazing Laguneños (Mga Kakaibang Laguneño)
6:00 pm Best Tourism Establishments-Awarding
8:00 pm Governor's Night
Mar. 14 (Sat) DAY 6
5:00 am Fun Bike
8:00 am Float Parade Competition
2:00 pm Cooking Contest
3:00 pm 1st Anilag Motorshow
4:00 pm Santacruzan sa Anilag
5:00 pm Amazing Laguneños (Mga Kakaibang Laguneño)
8:00 pm Ginoong Laguna 2009
Mar. 15 (Sun) DAY 7
8:00 am Sayaw at Misa ng Pasasalamat
2:00 pm Dog Show Competition
4:00 pm Santacruzan sa Anilag
5:00 pm Amazing Laguneños (Mga Kakaibang Laguneño)
8:00 pm Binibining Laguna 2009
11:00 pm Fireworks Display

* Binibini (March 01, Sunday) & Ginoong (February 27, Friday) Laguna Pre-pageants at Pavillion Mall, Biñan

* Daily Band Performers every 6pm at the Food Court


For inquiries, please contact the PROVINCIAL PLANNING DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR'S OFFICE (PPDCO) at Tel. No.: (049) 808-1120 / 810-2145

---

Rant: Did you know that Tutubi had to request this information directly from Laguna Tourism office and website administrators since the information is not yet available on their website when the festival's about to begin? Such ^(*&(*(*&(* for people who should be more proactive in disseminating such information to interested people wishing to witness and participate in the event. The same is true for most other festivals in the country where information is not easy to get. Tourism people are so.... grrrrrrrrrrrr


How to get to Sta. Cruz, Laguna:

Note Sta. Cruz is the capital town of Laguna Province, bounded by Laguna Lake (Laguna de Bay) and the towns of Pagsanjan and Bay (the former capital of Laguna and from where the lake got its name)

Commute to Sta. Cruz, Laguna:

Board a Green Star bus at the terminal on Taft Avenue near corner Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue (walking distance from LRT Buendia Station) or Hm Transport Bus on EDSA Cubao (Near Victory Liner, there's a Mang Pepe eatery in front) with signboard Sta. Cruz/Calamba and alight at the terminal in Pagsawitan (Pagsanjan) or where most people get off on the highway at a fork on a road. Transfer a jeepney with signboard Sta. Cruz, this will take you to Sta. Cruz town proper and alight in front of the Laguna Provincial Capitol complex (it's partly hidden by wall and large trees) beside Pedro Guevarra Elementary School.

Driving Directions to Sta. Cruz, Laguna:

From Makati, head to SLEX and take Calamba Exit (the last one), proceed to Calamba Crossing where you turn right and follow the road (highway) passing by Los Banos, Bay, Calauan, Victoria and Pila. After passing Sun Star mall, there's a junction where you can turn left towards Sta. Cruz poblacion (bayan), cross a bridge then turn right at the end going to Laguna Provincial Capitol. Alternatively, you drive straight from the junction then turn left (actually a Y-fork) after passing Asian Travellers Hotel in Pagsawitan where the Capitol grounds is located. At the back of the Capitol is Laguna Provincial Hospital.

Labels: Calabarzon, Festivals, Laguna, Southern Tagalog

All airports in the Philippines charge departing passengers airport tax or departure tax, most commonly called terminal fees, used by airport administrators in the upkeep of the facility, operations of the airport, aviation security and to the national government.

Terminal Fee for international flights is PhP550.00 for all major international airports in the Philippines (will be included in airfare tickers starting October 2014) while airport tax for local flights costs from PhP10.00 to PhP200.00 (Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Bacolod)

Note: Terminal fees are sometimes called airport tax and different from travel tax, usually paid together with the plane ticket, priced at PhP1620.00 for economy seats.

Terminal Fees for NAIA and Mactan-Cebu International Airport are now part of plane ticket fares. No need to pay at the airport.

List of Airport Terminal Fees for budgetary purposes and trip planning:

UPDATED June 2014

Manila International Airport, now called Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), includes NAIA Terminal 1, NAIA Terminal 2 (also called Centennial Terminal), NAIA Terminal 3 and Manila Domestic Terminal (Domestic Aiport): PhP550.00 for international flights and PhP200 for local flight destinations.

Cebu Airport terminal Fee: PhP550.00 (International) PhP200.00 (domestic departure fee now part of plane ticket fare))
Mactan Cebu International Airport
Terminal fee for domestic flights now included in airline ticket fare

Davao International Airport (DIA)
Davao Airport Terminal Fee: PhP550.00
PhP200.00 for domestic destinations

Clark Airport Terminal Fee: PhP550.00 (International) PhP200.00 local destinations
Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA) gateway to Angeles City, Pampanga

Bacolod Airport Terminal Fee: PhP200.00
(Bacolod Silay International Airport)

Iloilo Airport Terminal Fee PhP200.00
(Iloilo International Airport)

Caticlan Airport Terminal Fee: PhP200.00
Boracay Airport

Laguindingan Aiport Terminal Fee: PhP200.00 (domestic), PhP700.00 International
this replaces Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro

Kalibo Airport Terminal Fee: PhP40.00
Kalibo, Aklan

Puerto Princesa Airport Terminal Fee: PhP40.00
Palawan (Puerto Princesa, El Nido)

El Nido Airport Terminal Fee: PhP112.00
El Nido, Palawan

Busuanga Airport Terminal Fee: PhP20.00
(Coron, Busunga, Calamian Group of Islands of Northern Palawan)

Laoag Airport Terminal Fee: PhP40.00
Laoag, Ilocos Norte (gateway to Pagudpud)

Legazpi Airport Terminal Fee :PhP30.00
Legazpi, Albay (gateway to Mayon Volcano and Donsol)

Naga Airport Terminal Fee: PhP20.00
Naga, Camarines Sur (gateway to CWC, CamSur Watersports Complex)

Tagbilaran Airport Terminal Fee: PhP20.00
(Bohol: Tagbilaran, Panglao Island, Chocolate Hills, Loboc)

Tacloban Airport Terminal Fee: PhP100.00
(Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport)

Dumaguete Airport Terminal Fee: PhP30.00
(Negros Oriental and Siquijor)

Ozamiz Airport Terminal Fee: PhP20.00
Ozamis, Misamis Oriental

Cagayan de Oro Airport Terminal Fee: PhP30.00
(Lumbia Airport, gateway to CDO and Iligan City, Misamis Oriental, Camiguin and Bukidnon)
Laguindingan Airport (under construction)

Butuan Airport Terminal Fee: PhP30.00
Caraga Region

Dipolog Airport Terminal Fee: PhP20.00
Zamboanga del Norte (Dipolog City, Dapitan City)

Zamboanga City Airport Terminal Fee: PhP100.00
(Zamboanga International Airport)

General Santos City Airport Terminal Fee: PhP40.00

Other airports not yet visited by Tutubi but high on his list:

Batanes Aiport Terminal Fee: PhP20.00
(Basco Airport)
Subic Airport Terminal Fee: PhP500.00 for international flights PhP50.00 for domestic
(Subic Bay International Airport, SBIA)
Ormoc Airport Terminal Fee: ???
Siargao Airport Terminal Fee: ???
Surigao Airport Terminal Fee: ???
Tuguegarao Airport Terminal Fee: ???
(Tuguegarao, Cagayan Valley)
Romblon Airport Terminal Fee: ???
(San Jose, Tablas, Romblon)
Virac Airport Terminal Fee: PhP20.00
(Virac, Catanduanes)
Masbate Airport Terminal Fee: PhP20.00
Pagadian Airport Terminal Fee: ???
(Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur)

All fees are paid in cash, no credit cards or other means of payment accepted, to be paid after checking in the the airport.

Only a few airports in the Philippines have baggage carousels and passenger tubes due to low passenger traffic, some smaller ones even have no X-ray machines but security checkers scrutinize each bag for dangerous items plus frisking of passengers as well as requiring passengers to remove shoes and belts.

International airports in the Philippines (sourced from Wikipedia)

Angeles City (CRK), Cagayan de Oro, Cebu (CEB), Davao (DVO), General Santos (GES), Kalibo (KLO), Laoag (LAO), Legazpi, Manila (MNL), Olongapo (SFS), Puerto Princesa (PPS), Tagbilaran, Zamboanga (ZAM)

Major Domestic Airports:

Bacolod (BCD), Butuan (BXU), Cagayan de Oro (CGY), Cotabato (CBO), Dipolog (DPL), Dumaguete (DGT), Iloilo (ILO), Legazpi (LGP), Naga (WNP), Pagadian (PAG), Roxas City (RXS), San Jose (Mindoro) (SJI), Tacloban (TAC), Tagbilaran (TAG), Tuguegarao (TUG)

Information contained herein were taken from Tutubi's notes from his actual travels and may have been changed. Feel free to leave a comment for corrections and updates.


UPDATED: June 2014

Labels: Airports, Travel Tips

A favorite church of the well-heeled for weddings, baptism and other events, tucked in an gated community of Greenmeadows subdivion in Quezon, very near Eastwood City, Libis, is the Christ The King Parish.

Tutubi attended a wedding there last year but only remembered to post it here due to the recent sad news about the demise of Francis Magalona, more popularly known as Francis M., a gifted artist, nationalist, and composer who died today after a few months fight with leukenia. Tutubi received the news from his officemates who's a friend of Maxene Magalona, one of Francis' eight children.

the altar of the Christ the King Church
the pipe organ of the parish

The wake of Francis Magalona will be held at the chapel of Christ the King Church, that's why he posted information on how to get there. Note that there's limited parking space inside the compound but probably you can park on the street.

How to get to Christ the King Parish:

Commuting to the church is not easy for no public transport pass by the exclusive subdivision. for Driving directions, it's in Greenmeadows, near Ortigas Avenue. The closest you can get there by public tranport are the Rosario-bound jeepneys from Robinsons Galleria or Rizal-bound jeepneys from EDSA Central but you need to walk quite a distance from C5 if you can't flag a taxi.

Directions from Greenhills, drive towards EDSA on Ortigas Avenue then turn left on Greenmeadows, the traffic light after Lanuza and before you reach C5 (tiendesitas). It's about a kilometer from there.

From UP via C5, drive past Eastwood City, Libis and turn right when you see Jollibee where you'll see the church about 500 meters from the corner of C5.

Labels: Churches, Metro Manila, National Capital Region, Quezon City

For people wishing to visit Camiguin Island in Northern Mindanao, one of Tutubi's favorite island destinations, herewith is updated information on "How to get to Camiguin" via CDO provided by a traveler-friend of Tutubi who had just arrived from the volcanic island. This is the same route Tutubi took when he visited the island six years ago except that he came from Cebu via Cebu Ferries to the port of Cagayan de Oro.

From Lumbia Airport (Cagayan de Oro Airport)

Take a taxi to take you to Agora Bus terminal then board a bus to Butuan, the bus will pass by Balingoan Bus terminal. Bus travel time is about 2 hours, Fare is PhP110.00

Cheaper alternative: from Lumbia airport, ride a jeep outside the airport and request the driver to transfer you to jeepneys plying the R2 route that will take you to Agora Bus Terminal.

From the new Laguindingan Airport

take the shuttle to the main road (minimum fare of PhP8.00), then wait for a bus to Cagayan de Oro


There are also vans for hire outside the airport or CDO pier that can take a group directly to Camiguin, more expensive but convenient.

Once you arrive at Balingoan Bus Terminal, you have to walk about 10 minutes to get to the Port of Balingoan (Pier) where Ferries to Camiguin, including Ro-ro ships, to take you to Port of Benoni on Camiguin Island.

Ferry to Camiguin:

Port of Balingoan, Misamis Oriental to Port of Benoni, Camiguin and vice versa via Superferry

Ferry to Camiguin Fare: PhP135.00
Balingoan Port Terminal Fee: PhP2.25
For more information on ferry schedules, visit Superferry's official website at http://www.superferry.com.ph; or give them a call at telephone number +63.2.528-7000; +63.917.889.2421 (mobile)

To return to Manila, you just have to retrace your steps and you'll be back in Manila, in not time.

You can also board a bus to Butuan for lovers of history or a bus to Bukidnon of Davao in Balingoan Bus Terminal.

Labels: Cagayan de Oro, Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao

(this is the old post)

you can find the latest one How to Get to Tagaytay


One of the most recurring questions thrown at Tutubi by his friends is how to get to Tagaytay by commuting i.e. using public transportation. He entertains most queries but this time, he'll just refer his friends here for the information.

UPDATED September 2017

Before giving directions to Tagaytay, did you know the origin of Tagaytay's name? Tagaytay is actually an old Tagalog word for ridge, being a place on a ridge of an ancient caldera, similar to Taytay town in Rizal province that also sits on a ridge. Should you know anyone living in Tagaytay such a government official, please inform him/her that the Tagaytay legend of the "taga, Itay" is just not true and unfounded, something the people of Tagaytay falsely celebrate with a re-enactment during the Araw ng Tagaytay celebration on June 21.

Tagaytay's primary tourist attraction is Taal Volcano, the smallest volcano in the world, besides its cold weather that appeals to Manila denizens escaping the searing summer sun


How to get to Tagaytay:

For a detailed street map of Tagaytay, please visit OpenStreetMap by clicking here. Map is centered on Tagaytay Rotonda.

The Ninoy Aquino Monument at Tagaytay Rotonda, the most recognizable of Tagaytay's landmarks, is surrounded by BPI, Chowking, Mang Inasal

Driving directions to Tagaytay for those with private cars, vans or taxi cabs:

Option 1: via SLEX Sta. Rosa Exit, the most popular and easiest, is a straight drive all the way to Tagaytay Public Market (and right smack into Tagaytay Econo Inn) where you turn right going to Tagaytay city proper and Nasugbu/Balayan/Lemery Batangas or left going to People's Park in the Sky. Usual travel time from Makati CBD is just around one hour (except CBD traffic).

Option 2: via SLEX Eton Exit (recommended for weekends to avoid traffic in Nuvali, Solenad and Paseo de Sta. Rosa) turn right to Greenfield Parkway (pass by Riverbend and Pramana Residential Park), on to United Boulevard (pass FortMED and South Luzon Hospital and Medical Center, Paseo Premier Hotel) right to Laguna Boulevard then left to Sta. Rosa - Tagaytay Road to reach Tagaytay

Option 3: SLEX Greenfields Exit, an alternate route to Tagaytay that pass by Pramana, Nuvali, Eton City and Paseo de Sta. Rosa, ideal to avoid traffic buildup on Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay National Road

Option 4: SLEX Southwoods exit then Governor's Drive in Carmona going to Dasmarinas. Turn left on Maguyam Road just before the Shell Station to your left.

Option 5: via Aguinaldo Highway: Roxas Boulevard, Baclaran, Coastal Road, Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas via Aguinaldo Highway. Not recommended due to presence of heavy traffic made worse by SM Dasmarinas and Robinsons Palapala. At the end of Aguinaldo Highway is the Tagaytay Rotonda (roundabout) where a statue of Ninoy Aquino, a BPI with ATM, Days Inn, Max's Restaurant and 7-Eleven store as landmarks.

Option 6: Another route for the adventurous to Tagaytay is via Daang Hari that passes by Molino, Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas and Silang. It bypasses the traffic chokepoint of Bacoor rotonda but not SM Dasma and Robinsons.

Option 7: From Sto. Tomas, Batangas via StarToll in going to Lipa City, take Sambat exit and follow the national road to Talisay then go up Ligaya Drive, the zigzag road to Tagaytay (sometimes called Bitukang Manok, not for the faint of heart and newbie drivers)

Note: If you're a foreigner, you can hire vans to get there or an airport taxi. Some taxi drivers charge a fixed rate or double the meter fare plus toll fees. Taxi rates to Tagaytay from the airport is approximately PhP3,000.00 (depends on your haggling skill)

Tagaytay Skyranch's SkyEye: the giant ferris wheel in Tagaytay next to Taal Vista Hotel

How to Commute to Tagaytay: Buses, Fx, Vans, Jeepneys

This is a backpacking blog so backpacking Tagaytay should really mean taking public transportation :P

If you're going to Tagaytay via public transportation, request the driver to drop you off at your destination if along the way or at Tagaytay Rotonda (landmarks: Ninoy Aquino monument, BPI, Max's, 7-Eleven) where you can ride jeepneys or tricycle to your target place.

From Manila Airport to Tagaytay

From NAIA Terminal 1 or NAIA Terminal 2, walk outside the terminal from arrival gate and take the bus going to EDSA to Uniwide Coastal Mall (MMDA Southwest Integrated Bus Terminal) where you need to ride the bus going to Lemery, Lian, Nasugbu, Calatagan or DLTB/Crow Transit and alight in Tagaytay (Fare is around PhP80.00)

From NAIA Terminal 3 (serving flights from Cebu Pacific, PAL Express and some Philippine Airlines domestic flights), exit the gate cross Andrews Avenue. Look for jeepneys with signboard Pasay Taft Rotonda then alight at Rotonda (landmarks McDonalds and Sogo Hotel). At Rotonda, ride buses with signboard MIA to take you to Uniwide Coastal Mall (MMDA Southwest Integrated Bus Terminal) where you take bus to Tagaytay (Fare is around PhP80.00)

From NAIA Terminal 4 (old Manila Domestic Airport terminal serving as terminal for AirAsia Zest, SEAir), take a taxi to Uniwide Coastal Mall (MMDA Southwest Integrated Bus Terminal) where you take the the bus going to Lemery, Lian or Nasugbu or DLTB/Crow Transit and alight in Tagaytay (Fare is around PhP80.00)

Alternatively, hire a taxi to take you directly to Tagaytay (around PhP3,500.00) or get the services of car-for-hire

From Mandaluyong to Tagaytay: Ride vans (V-Hires) bound for Lemery, Batangas via Tagaytay in front of Starmall at the corner of EDSA and Shaw Boulevard (walking distance from MRT Shaw Boulevard station). Fare is around PhP200.00 as you need to pay for the trip all the way to Batangas (derecho)

from Navotas bus terminal via Malabon, Caloocan City, Quezon City via EDSA, Jasper Jean bus plies the Navotas to Pala-pala, Dasmarinas, Cavite route and pass by EDSA. (Those buses usually park to the detriment of other drivers) in front of Highway 54, Meralco Sub-station). In Dasmarinas, transfer to jeepneys going to Mendez, Cavite that pass by Tagaytay.

From Cubao, Quezon City (can be via MRT Cubao Araneta Center Station or LRT 2 Cubao Station): ride buses going to Nasugbu, Lemery or Calatagan at Araneta Center Terminal in front of Ali Mall e.g. San Agustin bus to Tagaytay. San Agustin Bus terminal also shared with Philtranco and Amihan bus lines on EDSA near MRT Araneta Center-Cubao station (Piltranco Alibangbang)

From LRT Gil Puyat Station (Buendia): Buses going to Nasugbu, Balayan and Lemery, Batangas (e.g. DLTB and Jam Transit) will pass Tagaytay (Fare: PhP83.00). Shuttle service (vans, FX, V-Hires) in front of EGI Mall (Jollibee) at the corner of Taft Avenue and Sen. Gil Puyat Ave (Buendia) going to Nasugbu, Balayan and Lemery, Batangas that all pass by Tagaytay but you need to pay a "derecho" fare of PhP180.00

From Ayala Avenue, Makati: Erjohn & Almark, Arbiel Bus Line and Ferdinand Liner serve the Tagaytay - Ayala route. They pass via Buendia from Coastal Road,right to Ayala Avenue right to EDSA then left to Roxas Boulevard, Coastal Road then Aguinaldo Highway up to Tagaytay. On the return route, it's Aguinaldo Highway, Coastal Road, right to Buendia (Gil Puyat) then Ayala. Fare is around PhP100.00

Shuttle service (vans, FX, V-Hires) going to Nasugbu, Balayan and Lemery on Zamora Street near Metropoint mall and behind Kabayan Hotel near the corner of EDSA and Taft Avenue (accessible from LRT EDSA Station or MRT Taft Avenue station (EDSA Rotonda). Current fare is PhP180.00 (regardless of where you're going since it's a derecho trip). Travel time to Tagaytay from Pasay is around one hour and fifteen minutes.

From Alabang, Muntinlupa: ride the van/fx at the terminal at the corner of SLEX and Alabang-Zapote Road, Filinvest Festival Mall, or still another at Starmall (formerly Metropolis Mall Alabang)

From Laguna to Tagaytay: In Pagsanjan Public Market, there are vans/fx/V-Hires going to Palapala in Dasmarinas Cavite. On reaching Pala-pala transport terminal (near Robinsons Dasmarinas and SM Dasma), transfer to a bus going to Tagaytay where it's less than an hour away.

Calamba to Tagaytay: ride shuttle service at the public market beside Waltermart Calamba or at the Calamba Central Terminal. Cheaper alternative, ride a jeepney going to Balibago complex in Sta. Rosa then transfer to Tagaytay-bound jeepneys.

Balibago to Tagaytay Public Market: Regular jeepneys plying the route to/from Balibago Transport terminal in Sta. Rosa Laguna to Tagaytay Public Market route.

Buses to Tagaytay: Route and Bus Fare

ALl buses to Tagaytay now stop at Uniwide Coastal Mall (MMDA Southwest Integrated Bus Terminal)

Bus Fare to Tagaytay Rotonda from Uniwide Coastal Mall (MMDA Southwest Integrated Bus Terminal): around PhP80.00. Travel time is around one hour and thirty minutes

JAM Transit has trips to Tagaytay, Balayan, Batangas, Lemery. Jam Transit terminal is at Taft Avenue corner Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue accessible from LRT Buendia station. Fare: PhP83.00

Crow Transit, Erjohn & Almark and Genesis have bus terminals at the corner Taft Ave & EDSA, behind Sogo Hotel and McDonalds, right below MRT Taft Avenue station and walking distance from LRT EDSA station. They have buses to Nasugbu/Calatagan/Balayan in Batangas or Alfonso, Cavite in regular schedules.

DLTB (Del Monte Land Transport Company) with bus terminal on EDSA, Malibay, Pasay City has buses every 15 minutes to Nasugbu, Balayan, or Calatagan Batangas that pass by Tagaytay. Bus Fare to Tagaytay: PhP83.00 (Baclaran to Tagaytay bus fare: PhP80.00)

Kirby Bus to Tagaytay from Lawton

San Agustin bus with signboard "Mendez-Tagaytay" from Harrison Plaza on Vito Cruz (Pablo Ocampo) or Araneta Center Bus terminal Baclaran (bus fare from Cubao is PhP114.00 travel time is around 3 hours) pass by Roxas Boulevard, Coastal Road, Aguinaldo Highway to the towns of Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas and Silang before reaching Tagaytay Rotonda then turns right going to Mendez, Cavite.

Saulog Bus Lines with signboard "Mendez-Tagaytay" from Harrison Plaza in Manila or Baclaran via Coastal Road, Aguinaldo Highway to the towns of Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas and Silang before reaching Tagaytay

Celyrosa Bus Lines, ordinary buses (i.e. non-airconditioned) in Pasay City (note this is a slow route due to lots of chokepoints in Cavite)

Getting Around Tagaytay via Jeepney (Routes and Fares)

Once you alight from your bus at Tagaytay Rotonda, you can proceed to your destination by riding jeepneys:

1. Tagaytay Rotonda to People's Park in the Sky

Jeepneys going to People's Park in the Sky (indicated on the jeepney signage or emblazoned on the sides) at Olivarez Plaza near Tagaytay Rotonda will take you to People's Park in the Sky, Windy Ridge Hotel, Tagaytay Prime Residences, Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, Mahran Snack Inn (halal food for Muslims), FMM Retreat House, Lee Boutique, Aroma Tagaytay Apartelle, Iglesia ni Cristo, Jose Elementary School, Golden Rooms, Casa Luntian, Estancia Resort Hotel, Country Suites, House of the Holy Trinity, Sister Maria Carmela Bescia, Amoroma, Tagaytay Econo Hotel, Kaye Ryan Grill, Tagaytay Public Market (where you can catch jeepneys going to Balibago, Sta. Rosa), House of the Holy Trinity, Taal Monte Vista, Ina ng Laging Saklolo Parish, Keni Po Rooms, 5R Rooms for Rent, Fortune Duck Residence Inn, One Tagaytay Place, Tagaytay Elementary School (near Ligaya Drive where you can take jeepney to Talisay, Batangas), Tagaytay Science High School, Development Academy of the Philippines, Knights Ko Inn, Picnic Grove, Convent (Bahay Pastulan pasalubong, near Mary Ridge), Royal Taal Inn, T House, Japanese Friendship Garden, Tagaytay Gymnasium then to People's Park in the Sky besides among other interesting places to see in Tagaytay.

2. Tagaytay - Mendez

Jeepneys with signboards Nasugbu or Mendez will take you to Mendez Junction that will pass by Hillcrest Plaza, New Orleans Hotel, Days Hotel, Tirona Hotel, Pamana Restaurant, The Theodore Hotel, The Boutique Bed and Breakfast, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish (Lourdes Drive), La Salette House of Prayer, Manos Greek Travel Hotel, Royal Parc Hotel and Restaurant, Radiant Star Apartelle, Canossa House of Spirituality, Tootsie's, Magallanes Square (Starbucks, Figaro, Leslie's Restaurant, Filibeans coffee shop, Max's, Cafe Lupe, Kitaro, LZM Lutong Bahay, Magallanes Square Hotel), Leslie's Restaurant, Filibeans, Carlos Pizza, Knuckles Bar, Rivera Hotel, Max's Restaurant, Yellow Cab, Cliffhouse Tagaytay, Fling Yoghurt, Buon Giorno, Elegant Star (near Maharlika Street), Petron gas station, The Lake Hotel, Belga Inn, Bistro Ibarra, Joyce's Diner, Joaquin's Bed and Breakfast, SM Wind Residences, Gerry's Grill, Josephines Restaurant, Summit Ridge Hotel, Robinsons, Giligans, Shakey's Pizza, Meralco/Tagaytay Power Station, Neul Borm Korean Restaurant, Tagaytay International Convention Center, Character Hotel, Fire Station, City College of Tagaytay, Casino Filipino (PAGCOR Casino), McDonalds, Sky Ranch (Sky Fun Amusement Park), Taal Vista Hotel, Antonio's Restaurant, Bag of Beans, Caleruega Church (after a tricycle ride), Evercrest Hotel, RSM Lutong Bahay Restaurant, Mijo Hotel, Josephine's Restaurant, Mushroom Burger and Mushroom Farm, Bali Village Hotel Resort and Spa, The Villa Hotel and Restaurant, Shell gas station, Petron, Allied Bank, Manukan Grille, Tides Grill and Bistro, Hotel Monticello, Villa San Jose, Taal Pink Hotel Apartelle, Nanay Dorie's Bulalohan, John Peter Bed and Breakfast, Belize Tagaytay, Country Sampler Inn, Sierra Spring Traveller's Inn, Mer-Ben Tapsilogan,Suspot Bulalohan,Balinsasayaw Restaurant, Viewsite Restaurant, Savemore, Mang Inasal, BDO, PNB, Security Bank, Jollibee, Tagaytay Haven Hotel, Mercury Drug, Starflower Tourist Lounge, Swiss Chalet, Bag of Beans, ATS Bulalohan, Tower Ground Bulalohan, Antonio's, A Taste of Honey, Sunview Inn, Breakfast at Antonio's, Residence Inn (with a mini-zoo), Marcia Adam's Restaurant, Villa Belus Subdivision, Andanita Taj Hotel (one of two earlier halal restaurants for Muslims, both closed now), Garden Hills, Luksuhin (where you can reach The Flower Farm Tagaytay and Paradizoo Theme Farm), Mountain Ridge, Potter's Ridge Hotel, The Roberts Inn, Hotel Dolores, , Tagaytay City Hall, Mahogany Market, 41st Division USAFFE site (beside Metro Tagaytay College of Business and Arts in Kaybagal South), Splendido Taal Golf and Country Club, Sonya's Garden, Canyon Woods Resort et al.

3. Tagaytay to Talisay, Batangas Jeepneys via Ligaya Drive

Jeepneys to Talisay, for those wanting for a Taal Volcano crater trek, are available at the corner of the highway and Ligaya drive (landmark: Tagaytay Elementary School)

4. Tagaytay to Balibago, Sta. Rosa, Laguna

Tagaytay Econo Inn, Museo Orlina, Tagaytay Public Market, El Mare Buko Pie, Rowena's Cafe, Good Shepherd, The Original Buko Pie of Los Banos Laguna (Silang, Cavite branch), Paseo de Sta. Rosa, Avida Land, Nuvali, Solenad, WalterMart Sta. Rosa, pass over SLEx, Enchanted Kingdom, Nila's Puto Binan (stall), Balibago Transport Terminal

Tricycles in Tagaytay

Tricycles can also be hired in Tagaytay (taxis are not available) but usually charge fares much more than taking public utility jeepneys (PUJ) so be forewarned.

From Tagaytay Going Back to Manila:

You may need to ride a jeepney to Tagaytay Rotonda and Olivarez Plaza where you wait for buses to take you back to Manila. Bus fare is about PhP80.00 (as of June 2015)

No updated information yet on the time of departure for first trips (6am is a safe one to assume) and last departure times, telephone numbers, bus schedules and current fares (due to fluctuating fares and gasoline prices)

If you're looking for tips on what to do in Tagaytay when it's raining, just bring a raincoat or umbrella or just stay in your hotel room :P

Where to Stay in Tagaytay (Hotels, Inns, Lodges, Motels, pension houses) for overnight accommodations:

5R Rooms for Rent
Aroma Tagaytay Apartelle
Bali Village Hotel Resort and Spa
Belga Inn
Character Hotel
Cool Breeze Hotel
Country Suites
Crosswinds Resort Suites
Days Hotel Tagaytay
Estancia Resort Hotel
Evercrest Hotel
Fortune Duck Residence Inn
Golden Rooms
Hillcrest Plaza
Hotel Dolores
Joaquin's Bed and Breakfast
Keni Po Rooms
Knights Ko Suites
Lee Boutique
Mijo Hotel
New Orleans Hotel
Potter's Ridge Hotel
Rivera Hotel Bed and Breakfast
Royal Taal Inn
Summit Ridge Hotel
Sunview Inn
Taal Vista Hotel
Tagaytay Econo Inn (Tagaytay Econo Hotel)
Tagaytay Haven Hotel
The Boutique Bed and Breakfast
The Lake Hotel
The Pines Suites
The Roberts Inn
The Theodore Hotel
The Villa Hotel and Restaurant
The Windy Ridge Hotel
Tirona Hotel
Starflower Tourist Lounge
Villa Ibarra Tagaytay
Villa Marinelli Hometelle
Windy Ridge Hotel

along Tagaytay- Sta. Rosa Road (budget-friendly, cheap accommodations)

Bergamo Suites Cafe
Casa Marcosa
El Paso Inn
Jessar Room for Rent
Rachel's Bed and Breakfast
REHM Inn
Selber Room for rent


please get in touch with hotel for their official website, telephone number/contact, email address. Tutubi is not endorsing any particular hotel here :P

Travel Tip: While Experiencing the adventures of Tagaytay if work interrupts, you can simply access your favorite windows applications the on the go with virtual windows cloud from one of the best provider of Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) – www.Apps4Rent.com

UPDATED: September 2017

Related Posts:

Taal Volcano Trek
People's Park in the Sky
Tagaytay Highlands
Splendido Taal Golf and Country Club
How to get to Sonya's Garden

Labels: Metro Tagaytay, Public Transportation, Tagaytay City, Travel Guides

If you have one million pesos in cash plus another three thousand pesos monthly excess money to burn, what would you do? Would you sign up for an exclusive membership at a club like the sprawling Club Punta Fuego in Nasugbu, Batangas?

Tutubi got a taste of the luxurious life of the rich for two days, without spending a single peso, courtesy of his company who held 2009 planning conference at the exclusive resort club.

This would be mostly pictures and a few comments/feedback as most information can be seen on Club Punta Fuego's official website.

The main road of Club Punta Fuego just after the main gate

Punta Fuego's main club house with a golf cart

Accommodations in Club Punta Fuego are mostly casitas with twin sharing rooms with doors in between


The casitas' shower room and toilet has the feel of forest with a garden and glass but obstructed from the outside world with a high concrete wall...a concept similar to the bathroom of Kinabuhayan Cafe in Dolores, Quezon

Club Punta Fuego has two infinity pools, one double infinity pool near the club house and another at lower beach. Infinity pools are designed so that there is an illusion of swimming in the vast ocean.

still water reflecting one house near the club...wonder if there are lots, houses or other properties on sale there
they seem to look like swimming in the ocean but actually just in the pool, the illusion of infinity pool...

early morning golf at Club Punta Fuego's 9-hole executive golf course

Other facilities inside the club are tennis courts, conference rooms, several restaurants and some stretches of white sand beaches but not really good for swimming due to being rocky. If you're looking for nice white sand beach for swimming and beach bumming, you can go to Terrazas de Punta Fuego resort that share the same beach front as Munting Buhangin Beach resort.

Punta Fuego, being an exclusive enclave, requires endorsement by a member to be able to use the facilities. There's no such thing as a cheap Punta Fuego vacation package unless somebody other than yourself paid for it. Tutubi was informed his company spent about P5k for every participant in the session for his one night only stay at the pricey place. Food at the club is pricey, similarly priced like most high-end hotels in Manila though there's nothing really worth raving for.


How to get to Punta Fuego, Nasugbu, Batangas:

Commuting to Punta Fuego is not easy as there're no public transportation available there. The nearest one can get there is via buses to Nasugbu, Batangas.

Driving directions to Punta Fuego: From SLEX, take Sta. Rosa exit all the way to Tagaytay and turn right after Tagaytay Public Market (and Tagaytay Econo Inn). Follow the highway, passing by Alfonso (cavite) and until you reach kilometer marker 93, the so called Likuan, where you turn right (left turn leads to Balayan town). You will pass by Nasugbu town proper, Cawayan Cove, Tali Beach, Munting Buhangin and Terrazas de Punta Fuego, up to about 6 kilometers of winding road, called Ternate-Nasugbu road until you see the sign leading to Club Punta Fuego. You will also see signs going to Hamilo Coast.

Labels: Batangas, Golf Courses, Hotels and Resorts