Palawan: Puerto Princesa Airport (Terminal Fees and Public Transportation Guide)
28 February 2011
The gateway to Palawan Underground River and other wonders of Palawan is Puerto Princesa Airport. Here's the latest travel information and guide about Puerto Princesa Airport Tutubi gathered when he visited Palawan recently.
Flights to Puerto Princesa from Manila are available via Philippine Airlines (PAL), Cebu Pacific, ZestAir and SEAIR. Cebu to Puerto Princesa flights also served by some of the mentioned airlines. (please visit the airlines' official websites for the latest flight information)
Puerto Princesa Airport Terminal Fee (departure tax, airport usage charge for all departing passengers): PhP 40.00
As of this time, there's only one airport x-ray machine for security and checking of hand-carried and checked-in baggage.
A small convenience store for snacks and last-minute pasalubong shopping is inside the waiting lounge. There are eateries and restaurants outside the airport terminal for those who need more than a sugar fix.
the departure check-in counters of PAL, Cebu Pacific and AirPhil Express. Not shown are those of ZestAir and SEAIR
There's a small conveyor belt at the arrival area while porters abound to assist in carrying your heavy luggage.
Vans for hire are available at the airport or through accredited travel agencies and tour operators (like Amika Travel and Tours, very near Tutubi's "homestay" accommodations in Palawan)
Tricycles are parked inside the airport to take you anywhere in the city proper or via special trips beyond the city proper, even city tours (e.g. Mitra's Ranch on a hilltop, Baker's Hill and the butterfly garden)
Outside the airport on Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa's main road, multicabs and jeepneys ply different routes but the central transport terminal in Palawan is in San Jose New Market (there you can ride jeepneys to Sabang if you're looking for public transportation to the Palawan Underground River), vans for hire to El Nido plus cheap souvenirs and t-shirts, much cheaper than those at Tiangge Tiangge pasalubong and Souvenir and buses to other towns of Palawan.
To get to San Jose New Market from Puerto Princesa City center, you can ride tricycles (fare: around PhP15.00/pax) or a multicab with signboard New Market (fare: PhP12.00)
Puerto Princesa proper to Sabang jeepney fare is PhP125.00/head, travel time around 2 hours.
The Sabang to Puerto Princesa jeepney first trip schedule is at 7am and last trip at 2pm.
Welcome to Puerto Princesa City, one of the cleanest and greenest cities of the Philippines!
related post:
How to get to El Nido from Sabang
Airport Terminal Fees
Flights to Puerto Princesa from Manila are available via Philippine Airlines (PAL), Cebu Pacific, ZestAir and SEAIR. Cebu to Puerto Princesa flights also served by some of the mentioned airlines. (please visit the airlines' official websites for the latest flight information)
Puerto Princesa Airport Terminal Fee (departure tax, airport usage charge for all departing passengers): PhP 40.00
As of this time, there's only one airport x-ray machine for security and checking of hand-carried and checked-in baggage.
A small convenience store for snacks and last-minute pasalubong shopping is inside the waiting lounge. There are eateries and restaurants outside the airport terminal for those who need more than a sugar fix.
the departure check-in counters of PAL, Cebu Pacific and AirPhil Express. Not shown are those of ZestAir and SEAIRThere's a small conveyor belt at the arrival area while porters abound to assist in carrying your heavy luggage.
Vans for hire are available at the airport or through accredited travel agencies and tour operators (like Amika Travel and Tours, very near Tutubi's "homestay" accommodations in Palawan)
Tricycles are parked inside the airport to take you anywhere in the city proper or via special trips beyond the city proper, even city tours (e.g. Mitra's Ranch on a hilltop, Baker's Hill and the butterfly garden)
Outside the airport on Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa's main road, multicabs and jeepneys ply different routes but the central transport terminal in Palawan is in San Jose New Market (there you can ride jeepneys to Sabang if you're looking for public transportation to the Palawan Underground River), vans for hire to El Nido plus cheap souvenirs and t-shirts, much cheaper than those at Tiangge Tiangge pasalubong and Souvenir and buses to other towns of Palawan.
To get to San Jose New Market from Puerto Princesa City center, you can ride tricycles (fare: around PhP15.00/pax) or a multicab with signboard New Market (fare: PhP12.00)
Puerto Princesa proper to Sabang jeepney fare is PhP125.00/head, travel time around 2 hours.
The Sabang to Puerto Princesa jeepney first trip schedule is at 7am and last trip at 2pm.
Welcome to Puerto Princesa City, one of the cleanest and greenest cities of the Philippines!
related post:
How to get to El Nido from Sabang
Airport Terminal Fees
Labels: Airports, Mimaropa, Palawan, Puerto Princesa
posted by GingGoy @ 8:18 PM,
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Palawan: Ugong Rock Zipline, Puerto Princesa
27 February 2011
A new community-based adventure tourism initiative in Puerto Princesa, Palawan is the installation of a zipline on top of Ugong Rock, a karst formation in Barangay Tagabenit where the sign along a dirt road leading to the jump-off point was seen by Tutubi on the way to Sabang. It's also one of five projects of the late environmentalist Doc. Gerry Ortega (of ABS-CBN Bantay Kalikasan), together with the Bacungan River Cruise Floating Restaurant, Pambato Reef Dalubkaragatan, dolphin and whale-watching tour in Puerto Princesa Bay and firefly watching tour in Iwahig River.
For the lack of time and no other adventurists with him, Tutubi deferred trying out the new zipline at Ugong Rock and instead posting the information for readers of this blog.
Here's the latest information Tutubi gathered from his correspondence with the Tagabenit Guide Association handling the Ugong Rock tours and zipline adventure package:
Ugong Rock caving/spelunking tour: PhP100.00/head to tour the Ugong Rock formation's cave.
Ugong Rock Zipline (opened on January 22, 2011)
Price for the Ugong Rock climb and zipline: PhP350.00 (introductory rate)
Length of zip line: 330 meters (approximately 21 seconds)
Open hours: 8am to 5pm daily (including Sundays and holidays)
Contact Person: Marivel Ocajada
Contact Numbers: +63.930.862.2750; +63.918.755.8993 for Ugong Rock tour reservations.
Note: you need to climb up Ugong rock (through the cave's cracks and crevices) then go down via the long zipline. There's no cable car nor elevators there. :P
Tutubi intends to visit Palawan again sometime in the future and setting his sights on finally trekking the Monkey Trail (adventure trail leading to the Underground River in Sabang) and this new Zipline in Palawan. (Note this is a new one and Tutubi has yet to see the cables and dampers so he can't comment if the new tourism facility is safe. Recommend waiting for some time for it to establish a safety record)
Should you visit Ugong Rock ahead of Tutubi, please post updated information, pictures and videos by hitting the comments!
you may also be looking for:
palawan zipline, palawan spelunking, caves in palawan, caving, palawan zipline rates, fees
For the lack of time and no other adventurists with him, Tutubi deferred trying out the new zipline at Ugong Rock and instead posting the information for readers of this blog.
Here's the latest information Tutubi gathered from his correspondence with the Tagabenit Guide Association handling the Ugong Rock tours and zipline adventure package:
Ugong Rock caving/spelunking tour: PhP100.00/head to tour the Ugong Rock formation's cave.
Ugong Rock Zipline (opened on January 22, 2011)
Price for the Ugong Rock climb and zipline: PhP350.00 (introductory rate)
Length of zip line: 330 meters (approximately 21 seconds)
Open hours: 8am to 5pm daily (including Sundays and holidays)
Contact Person: Marivel Ocajada
Contact Numbers: +63.930.862.2750; +63.918.755.8993 for Ugong Rock tour reservations.
Note: you need to climb up Ugong rock (through the cave's cracks and crevices) then go down via the long zipline. There's no cable car nor elevators there. :P
Tutubi intends to visit Palawan again sometime in the future and setting his sights on finally trekking the Monkey Trail (adventure trail leading to the Underground River in Sabang) and this new Zipline in Palawan. (Note this is a new one and Tutubi has yet to see the cables and dampers so he can't comment if the new tourism facility is safe. Recommend waiting for some time for it to establish a safety record)
Should you visit Ugong Rock ahead of Tutubi, please post updated information, pictures and videos by hitting the comments!
you may also be looking for:
palawan zipline, palawan spelunking, caves in palawan, caving, palawan zipline rates, fees
Labels: Adventure Tourism, Ecotourism, Mimaropa, Palawan, Puerto Princesa
posted by GingGoy @ 8:08 PM,
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Suso Beach, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur
26 February 2011
Tagged as a "pristine beach" in Sta. Maria town of Ilocos Sur, just near the UNESCO World Heritage Site Church of Sta. Maria, is a stretch of fine brownish gray sand beach visible along the national highway where Tutubi took a quick, drive-by picture of the place.
Why is it called Suso Beach?
a drive-by picture of Suso beach in Sta. Maria at around noon...notice the hill with signs of quarrying or landslide?
To answer the question asked earlier, it's probably because it's part of Barangay Suso, not anything dirty you have in mind. There's also Nalvo Beach nearby but Tutubi has no time to look for it, probably next time but not in the near future.
It's not anywhere near pristine as some locals claim but Tutubi would love to have a vacation house near a nice beach far away from it all. No sighting of beach resorts nor house and properties for sale...it's too far from Manila for Tutubi though :P
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Suso Beach, Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur
Coordinates: 17°21'31"N 120°27'11"E
Why is it called Suso Beach?
a drive-by picture of Suso beach in Sta. Maria at around noon...notice the hill with signs of quarrying or landslide?To answer the question asked earlier, it's probably because it's part of Barangay Suso, not anything dirty you have in mind. There's also Nalvo Beach nearby but Tutubi has no time to look for it, probably next time but not in the near future.
It's not anywhere near pristine as some locals claim but Tutubi would love to have a vacation house near a nice beach far away from it all. No sighting of beach resorts nor house and properties for sale...it's too far from Manila for Tutubi though :P
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Suso Beach, Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur
Coordinates: 17°21'31"N 120°27'11"E
Labels: Beaches, Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur
posted by GingGoy @ 7:02 PM,
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5 Years After: The Unforgettable Palawan Beach
25 February 2011
It's like shooting an episode of QTV 11's "I Survived" when Tutubi went back to Palawan and the first thing he did was visit the beach where the so called Palawan Tragedy occurred that almost extinguished his passion for travel and adventure.
After five years since he nearly lost his life in an undeveloped and unmarked beach in Barangay Kamuning, (not Inagawan as earlier posted), he found the place still the same, as if trapped in time, with the dangerous portion of the deserted beach still looking innocuous sans danger markers.
First in the "reminiscing tour" was a pitstop in front of Blue Sky Sport and Beach Resort, where the group left all of their lifevests, except one, due to the apparently harmless beach. The then German owner of the resort was the one who lent his pick up truck to transport the already pale and not breathing Rolan to the nearest clinic. The resort is reported now owned by a relative of Puerto Princesa mayor Hagedorn.
The Inagawan Satellite Clinic where Rolan was rushed after the incident. He was eventually transported to Adventist Hospital in Puerto Princesa City proper where he was officially declared dead.
A mass was held at a nearby beach house presided by a priest who used to be parish priest of inmates and prisoners at Iwahig Prison Farm
Seeing the exact spot where he almost drowned, the shouts of his three other friends rang in his ear while images of waves trying to swallow him filled his mind, reminiscent of the last scenes of the movie "The Perfect Storm."
flowers for a dearly departed friend, someone who's like a brother to Tutubi, who's always there to remind him to be careful knowing his adventurous tendencies
the "historic beach" five years ago has a lonely mangrove as silent witness to the tragic event that transpired at the place
The solitary bakawan (mangrove tree) is now gone but the beach remained the same-- unmarked, undeveloped and waiting to claim its next unsuspecting victim-- something Tutubi feels bitter about the local officials who should be the one putting danger markers even on the roadside if not buoys on the water-- such indifference!
Related Posts:
Palawan Tragedy: Four Months After
Remembering Iwahig Penal Colony
Travel Insurance
Palawan Tragedy
After five years since he nearly lost his life in an undeveloped and unmarked beach in Barangay Kamuning, (not Inagawan as earlier posted), he found the place still the same, as if trapped in time, with the dangerous portion of the deserted beach still looking innocuous sans danger markers.
First in the "reminiscing tour" was a pitstop in front of Blue Sky Sport and Beach Resort, where the group left all of their lifevests, except one, due to the apparently harmless beach. The then German owner of the resort was the one who lent his pick up truck to transport the already pale and not breathing Rolan to the nearest clinic. The resort is reported now owned by a relative of Puerto Princesa mayor Hagedorn.
The Inagawan Satellite Clinic where Rolan was rushed after the incident. He was eventually transported to Adventist Hospital in Puerto Princesa City proper where he was officially declared dead.
A mass was held at a nearby beach house presided by a priest who used to be parish priest of inmates and prisoners at Iwahig Prison Farm
Seeing the exact spot where he almost drowned, the shouts of his three other friends rang in his ear while images of waves trying to swallow him filled his mind, reminiscent of the last scenes of the movie "The Perfect Storm."
flowers for a dearly departed friend, someone who's like a brother to Tutubi, who's always there to remind him to be careful knowing his adventurous tendencies
the "historic beach" five years ago has a lonely mangrove as silent witness to the tragic event that transpired at the placeThe solitary bakawan (mangrove tree) is now gone but the beach remained the same-- unmarked, undeveloped and waiting to claim its next unsuspecting victim-- something Tutubi feels bitter about the local officials who should be the one putting danger markers even on the roadside if not buoys on the water-- such indifference!
Related Posts:
Palawan Tragedy: Four Months After
Remembering Iwahig Penal Colony
Travel Insurance
Palawan Tragedy
posted by GingGoy @ 8:21 PM,
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Ilocos Sur: Santa Watchtower, Quirino (Banaoang) Bridge over Abra River
19 February 2011
On the way to Vigan where Tutubi wasn't able to find the missing watchtower in the town of Santa, a red brick structure caught his attention that made him stop to look around. What greeted him was a magnificent viewdeck with sweeping vista of the wide Abra River, the twin bridges of Banaoang Bridge (also called Quirino Bridge) and the newer bridge just beside it.
The Banaoang Viewdeck in Santa, Ilocos Sur:
the red brick "watchtower" with vandalisms visible on the national highway beside a high voltage power transmission tower
great view of Abra River. imagine sunrises and sunsets here
Banaoang Bridge with the mountain part of Ilocos Range
the old and new bridge, side by side over Abra River
Quirino Bridge, also called Banaoang Bridge as it's located in Barangay Banaoang, Santa, Ilocos Sur, is no longer used and replaced with a newer bridge. It connects the towns of Santa and Bantay and approximately fifteen minutes away from the heritage city of Vigan.
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GPS Coordinates of Banaoang Watchtower in Santa, Ilocos Sur
N17 33 24.8 E120 27 43.1
The Banaoang Viewdeck in Santa, Ilocos Sur:
the red brick "watchtower" with vandalisms visible on the national highway beside a high voltage power transmission tower
great view of Abra River. imagine sunrises and sunsets here
Banaoang Bridge with the mountain part of Ilocos Range
the old and new bridge, side by side over Abra RiverQuirino Bridge, also called Banaoang Bridge as it's located in Barangay Banaoang, Santa, Ilocos Sur, is no longer used and replaced with a newer bridge. It connects the towns of Santa and Bantay and approximately fifteen minutes away from the heritage city of Vigan.
---
GPS Coordinates of Banaoang Watchtower in Santa, Ilocos Sur
N17 33 24.8 E120 27 43.1
Labels: Bridges, Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur, Rivers
posted by GingGoy @ 8:37 PM,
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Estrel's Heart Cake with Roses: Perfect Gift for Valentines Day
14 February 2011
An old cake house tucked away in Quezon City's West Triangle area that's been making cakes and other delicious goodies since 1946, Estrel's cake House is an institution that's patronized by people that even taxi drivers know the place when you mention you're going to there.
Tutubi's favorite is Estrel's food for the gods, something introduced to him by a friend years ago but now he's featuring what really made the bakeshop at the corner of Scout Tobias and Scout Limbaga withstood the challenges of several popular and ubiquitous cake houses in more than 5 decades of existence: the caramel cake.
A popular twist for Estrel's caramel cakes is the heart-shaped cakes adorned with red roses, popular not only during Valentines day as an alternative gift against uber-expensive roses and flowers taken advantage by flower-traders in a commercialized Valentines day celebration.
Estrel's cakes are not too sweet, something Tutubi loves, and the chiffon cake is fluffy not stiff plus it has no preservatives making shelf-life limited to only two days (suggest you consume it immediately after buying).
To place orders, you can call Estrel's Cake contact number then schedule the pick up in the Scouts area of Quezon City, about 10 minutes from Tutubi's home. You can only buy caramel cakes in slices (price: P100.00), food for the gods (P380/box) and other goodies at the store. Other items are on per order basis.
How to get to Estrel's?
Project 2&3 jeeps that have Timog on their signboard pass by Timog Avenue then get off at the corner of Scout Tobias (landmark: McDonalds) then walk two corners.
Directions for those with cars, as most of Estrel's customers have, head to Timog Avenue from EDSA then turn when you see McDonalds. You'll see the popular cake house on your left at the corner of Scout Limbaga.
Estrel's is open from Monday to Sunday from 8am to around 7pm, call for your order then pay on pick-up, no deliveries.
As always, this is not a sponsored post. Tutubi paid P900.00, not cheap, for the rose-decorated heart-shaped cake of Estrel's. Besides, Estrel's doesn't need the advertisement :P
Tutubi's favorite is Estrel's food for the gods, something introduced to him by a friend years ago but now he's featuring what really made the bakeshop at the corner of Scout Tobias and Scout Limbaga withstood the challenges of several popular and ubiquitous cake houses in more than 5 decades of existence: the caramel cake.
A popular twist for Estrel's caramel cakes is the heart-shaped cakes adorned with red roses, popular not only during Valentines day as an alternative gift against uber-expensive roses and flowers taken advantage by flower-traders in a commercialized Valentines day celebration.
Estrel's cakes are not too sweet, something Tutubi loves, and the chiffon cake is fluffy not stiff plus it has no preservatives making shelf-life limited to only two days (suggest you consume it immediately after buying).
To place orders, you can call Estrel's Cake contact number then schedule the pick up in the Scouts area of Quezon City, about 10 minutes from Tutubi's home. You can only buy caramel cakes in slices (price: P100.00), food for the gods (P380/box) and other goodies at the store. Other items are on per order basis.
How to get to Estrel's?
Project 2&3 jeeps that have Timog on their signboard pass by Timog Avenue then get off at the corner of Scout Tobias (landmark: McDonalds) then walk two corners.
Directions for those with cars, as most of Estrel's customers have, head to Timog Avenue from EDSA then turn when you see McDonalds. You'll see the popular cake house on your left at the corner of Scout Limbaga.
Estrel's is open from Monday to Sunday from 8am to around 7pm, call for your order then pay on pick-up, no deliveries.
As always, this is not a sponsored post. Tutubi paid P900.00, not cheap, for the rose-decorated heart-shaped cake of Estrel's. Besides, Estrel's doesn't need the advertisement :P
Labels: Pasalubong
posted by GingGoy @ 8:08 PM,
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Puerto Princesa, Palawan Tour Itinerary Suggestions
13 February 2011
Tutubi was able to visit Palawan two times, the first was the memorable trip to Coron, and the second is the disastrous trip that resulted to tragedy.
This time he's going back on a personal trip to the island to visit his "old friend" as well as complete his unfinished tour to Palawan.
The large cross of Iwahig Penal Colony near the maximum security prison compound (a rather crude B&W attempt Photoshop (Canon Ixus 30)).
So what's this post for? It's just a list of possible interesting places in Palawan, tourist spots usually, that Tutubi might visit if he has the time or can afford it.
Puerto Princesa Tour Itinerary:
already visited these places the first time though not all of them are posted here:
Butterfly Garden
Mitra's ranch
Iwahig Penal Colony
Crocodile Farm (Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center)
Plaza Cuartel
Baker's Hill
Palawan Cathedral (just across Plaza Cuartel)
Iwahing Penal Colony
Inagawan Beach (the deserted beach where tragedy struck)
the beach of Inagawan, Puerto Princesa near Iwahig Penal Colony
possible places to conquer though quite pricey:
El Nido
Dos Palmas
adventure side:
Tabon cave complex, Lipuun Point, Quezon
The UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
Puerto Princesa Underground River (St. Paul Subterranean River)
Tubbatahha Reef
Where to Eat in Palawan (initial list)
Tutubi, on adventure mode, wants to eat the wood worm, known locally as tamilok, when he get there.
KaLui Restaurant
Badjao Seafront Restaurant
MJ Cafe
Kamarikutan art gallery café
Kinabuchs Bar and Grill
Tom Tom Club
La Terasse Cafe and Restaurant
Palayok at Bilao (Rizal Avenue)
Lotus Garden Restaurant and Suites (Rizal Avenue)
Palawan Souvenir Shopping:
Asiano Wooden Carvings (Rizal Avenue)
Ikaw Cag Ako Cafe and Native Gift Shop (Rizal Avenue)
If you have suggestions on places to visit, please do leave a comment. Tutubi may not be able to visit them now but probably in future visits to the beautiful and peaceful island province.
This time he's going back on a personal trip to the island to visit his "old friend" as well as complete his unfinished tour to Palawan.
The large cross of Iwahig Penal Colony near the maximum security prison compound (a rather crude B&W attempt Photoshop (Canon Ixus 30)).So what's this post for? It's just a list of possible interesting places in Palawan, tourist spots usually, that Tutubi might visit if he has the time or can afford it.
Puerto Princesa Tour Itinerary:
already visited these places the first time though not all of them are posted here:
Butterfly Garden
Mitra's ranch
Iwahig Penal Colony
Crocodile Farm (Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center)
Plaza Cuartel
Baker's Hill
Palawan Cathedral (just across Plaza Cuartel)
Iwahing Penal Colony
Inagawan Beach (the deserted beach where tragedy struck)
the beach of Inagawan, Puerto Princesa near Iwahig Penal Colonypossible places to conquer though quite pricey:
El Nido
Dos Palmas
adventure side:
Tabon cave complex, Lipuun Point, Quezon
The UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
Puerto Princesa Underground River (St. Paul Subterranean River)
Tubbatahha Reef
Where to Eat in Palawan (initial list)
Tutubi, on adventure mode, wants to eat the wood worm, known locally as tamilok, when he get there.
KaLui Restaurant
Badjao Seafront Restaurant
MJ Cafe
Kamarikutan art gallery café
Kinabuchs Bar and Grill
Tom Tom Club
La Terasse Cafe and Restaurant
Palayok at Bilao (Rizal Avenue)
Lotus Garden Restaurant and Suites (Rizal Avenue)
Palawan Souvenir Shopping:
Asiano Wooden Carvings (Rizal Avenue)
Ikaw Cag Ako Cafe and Native Gift Shop (Rizal Avenue)
If you have suggestions on places to visit, please do leave a comment. Tutubi may not be able to visit them now but probably in future visits to the beautiful and peaceful island province.
Labels: Mimaropa, Palawan, Puerto Princesa
posted by GingGoy @ 8:01 PM,
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LongSiLog: Vigan Longganisa for Breakfast
12 February 2011
After a tiring day and a quick dinner at Vigan's Empanadahan, Tutubi woke up in search of places to eat breakfast at Vigan's famous plaza where you'll be offered sinanglao (soup of pork innards) but he's actually looking for something unique to Vigan: the famous Vigan Longganiza.
Longsilog: a Filipino breakfast, portmanteau of Longganisa, Sinangag (or sinaing) and itlog (egg), Vigan style. It's served with sukang Iloko for the unique, distinctive flavor of the local sausage.
Tutubi's planning a return trip to Ilocos Sur in a few days but not sure if he's going to visit Vigan again for this one...
Longsilog: a Filipino breakfast, portmanteau of Longganisa, Sinangag (or sinaing) and itlog (egg), Vigan style. It's served with sukang Iloko for the unique, distinctive flavor of the local sausage.
Tutubi's planning a return trip to Ilocos Sur in a few days but not sure if he's going to visit Vigan again for this one...
Labels: Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur, Vigan
posted by GingGoy @ 8:21 PM,
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How to Get to Malabon Zoo: Map, Commute, Directions
11 February 2011
Tutubi often pass by Malabon Zoo when he visits his brother living in barangay Acacia but he's never really been inside the famous private zoo owned by Manny Tongco. This post is for the information of people wishing to go to Malabon Zoo which is near Monumento area of Caloocan.
Tutubi wanted to personally visit it to see for himself even if he's brother warned him that there's less to see there with more fishes and less animals (orangutans, bengal tigers, burmese pythons, deers et al). (sometimes: bad, negative remarks or comments are just the result of a bad day and probably the exception and improves over time)
For Pictures of Malabon Zoo, you may visit this blog post of Traveler on Foot
How to get to Malabon Zoo:
street map to Malabon Zoo (Open Street Map). It's just EDSA, Monumento, MacArthur then Potrero Elem. School and you're there
Commute to Malabon Zoo from Makati or anywhere on EDSA is very easy (but slow) just by boarding buses with signboard UE/Letre. Those buses pass right in front of Malabon Zoo. Fastest way is to take MRT, get off at North Avenue station then board the UE/Letre bus.
From LRT Monumento, you can walk towards Manila Central University (MCU, near Rosendo Simon St.) then board the UE/Letre/Navotas bus or just ride the jeepneys with Malabon Acacia signboards.
To get back, you need to walk towards Potrero Elementary School on MacArthur Highway to board a bus to Makati/MRT/LRT. You can also walk towards del Monte to board jeepneys going to LRT/Monumento then take a bus or LRT from there.
Driving directions to Malabon Zoo:
From Makati, take EDSA all the way to Monumento by to exit to MacArthur Highway, left to Pinagtipunan Circle (landmark: Potrero Elementary School) then left to Gov. Pascual Avenue where Malabon Zoo entrance gate can be found very near the corner to your left. Parking is just on the street.
Malabon Zoo and Aquarium
Address: # 1 Gov. Pascual, Barrio Potrero, Malabon
Entrance Fee: PhP 150.00
Zoo hours: 8am to 5:30pm (open daily)
Telephone Number: +63.2.361.3064; +63.2.361.3083
official website: none
Call Malabon Zoo contact number for inquiries, entrance fees, kiddie parties, events, group tours et al.
Malabon Zoo and Aquarium Dinosaur Museum, Tropical rainforest
how much is Malabon zoo entrance fee? Malabon Zoo contact number
Future posts: How to get to Manila Zoo, How to get to Avilon Zoo
Tutubi wanted to personally visit it to see for himself even if he's brother warned him that there's less to see there with more fishes and less animals (orangutans, bengal tigers, burmese pythons, deers et al). (sometimes: bad, negative remarks or comments are just the result of a bad day and probably the exception and improves over time)
For Pictures of Malabon Zoo, you may visit this blog post of Traveler on Foot
How to get to Malabon Zoo:
street map to Malabon Zoo (Open Street Map). It's just EDSA, Monumento, MacArthur then Potrero Elem. School and you're thereCommute to Malabon Zoo from Makati or anywhere on EDSA is very easy (but slow) just by boarding buses with signboard UE/Letre. Those buses pass right in front of Malabon Zoo. Fastest way is to take MRT, get off at North Avenue station then board the UE/Letre bus.
From LRT Monumento, you can walk towards Manila Central University (MCU, near Rosendo Simon St.) then board the UE/Letre/Navotas bus or just ride the jeepneys with Malabon Acacia signboards.
To get back, you need to walk towards Potrero Elementary School on MacArthur Highway to board a bus to Makati/MRT/LRT. You can also walk towards del Monte to board jeepneys going to LRT/Monumento then take a bus or LRT from there.
Driving directions to Malabon Zoo:
From Makati, take EDSA all the way to Monumento by to exit to MacArthur Highway, left to Pinagtipunan Circle (landmark: Potrero Elementary School) then left to Gov. Pascual Avenue where Malabon Zoo entrance gate can be found very near the corner to your left. Parking is just on the street.
Malabon Zoo and Aquarium
Address: # 1 Gov. Pascual, Barrio Potrero, Malabon
Entrance Fee: PhP 150.00
Zoo hours: 8am to 5:30pm (open daily)
Telephone Number: +63.2.361.3064; +63.2.361.3083
official website: none
Call Malabon Zoo contact number for inquiries, entrance fees, kiddie parties, events, group tours et al.
Malabon Zoo and Aquarium Dinosaur Museum, Tropical rainforest
how much is Malabon zoo entrance fee? Malabon Zoo contact number
Future posts: How to get to Manila Zoo, How to get to Avilon Zoo
Labels: Malabon, Metro Manila, National Capital Region, Zoos
posted by GingGoy @ 11:11 PM,
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Sulvec Beach, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur
09 February 2011
Continuing with Tutubi's tour of Ilocos Sur, dubbed by the Ilocos Provincial Government's "Perfect Vacation Package" mentioned Sulvec Beach in Narvacan town.
Tutubi asked around how to get to Sulvec Beach and also to look for an old Spanish Watchtower called Bateria (Battery) that he wasn't able to find (that The Pinay Solo Backpacker may have found) since it's hidden from view that should be the case.
The Truth about Sulvec Beach:
The deserted Sulvec beach of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur
notice the rock on the upper left of the photo. it's actually a grotto perched on top of a rock islet. you can see this rock on the highway from Vigan
So how did Tutubi find Sulvec Beach? Again, he disagrees with the Ilocos Sur "praise release" for this beach, similar to Apatot beach posted earlier, with it's brownish sand, sometimes pebbles and rocky beach. There are no beach resorts seen by Tutubi near this beach, there's only Villa Gloria Beach Resort farther than the newly-paved road that doesn't seem to serve many people (or probably built to serve the beach front properties)
The come on of this beach however is it's lack of people, a plus for Tutubi who prefers deserted beaches, the presence of tall grasses and the rocky sceneries can be the subject breathtaking landscape photos and probably movie location shoots for a more authentic rural seaside scene.
Now where can we find the best beach of Ilocos? Tutubi still thinks it's still Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte and down south in La Union province.
Tutubi's going back to Ilocos Sur in a few days/weeks time and will probably look for Bateria and other old Spanish Watchtowers in the area.
Tutubi asked around how to get to Sulvec Beach and also to look for an old Spanish Watchtower called Bateria (Battery) that he wasn't able to find (that The Pinay Solo Backpacker may have found) since it's hidden from view that should be the case.
The Truth about Sulvec Beach:
The deserted Sulvec beach of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur
notice the rock on the upper left of the photo. it's actually a grotto perched on top of a rock islet. you can see this rock on the highway from ViganSo how did Tutubi find Sulvec Beach? Again, he disagrees with the Ilocos Sur "praise release" for this beach, similar to Apatot beach posted earlier, with it's brownish sand, sometimes pebbles and rocky beach. There are no beach resorts seen by Tutubi near this beach, there's only Villa Gloria Beach Resort farther than the newly-paved road that doesn't seem to serve many people (or probably built to serve the beach front properties)
The come on of this beach however is it's lack of people, a plus for Tutubi who prefers deserted beaches, the presence of tall grasses and the rocky sceneries can be the subject breathtaking landscape photos and probably movie location shoots for a more authentic rural seaside scene.
Now where can we find the best beach of Ilocos? Tutubi still thinks it's still Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte and down south in La Union province.
Tutubi's going back to Ilocos Sur in a few days/weeks time and will probably look for Bateria and other old Spanish Watchtowers in the area.
Labels: Beaches, Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur
posted by GingGoy @ 9:40 PM,
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The UNESCO World Heritage Church of Sta. Maria Ilocos Sur
02 February 2011
Located on a hill overlooking the town of Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur and surrounded by a defensive wall, the imposing Church on a hilltop can be reached via hill side steps or by a service road with entrance at the back of the brick structure designed to Augustinians to withstand earthquakes.
no lens wide enough for Tutubi to take a full frontal photo of Sta. Maria Church's facade so this one would do. tip: visit it in the early morning as the church is facing east or late afternoon
the interi0r of the church is unmistakeably baroque with the usual four gospel writers, pulpit and gold-leaf decorated retablo (tableau)
Original church structure by Augustinians as a chapel in 1769 with patron Our Lady of Assumption (Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion). The present stone and brick church was built in 1810 as stated on the NHI marker on the church facade. It's presently undergoing restoration and structural support repair to make it last for posterity.
massive buttresses line the church walls to support it in case of earthquakes
the church bell tower a few feet away from the main church structure
What makes Sta. Maria Church unique is that it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the four Baroque Churches of the Philippines (the three others are San Agustin Church Manila, Miag-ao Church in Iloilo and San Agustin Church (Paoay Church) in Ilocos Norte). The church has remarkable universal value that should be preserved for the benefit of mankind.
Sporting the earthquake baroque architecture distinguished by it's massive buttresses to withstand earthquakes common in the Philippines and a belfry separate from the main church so as not to "bang heads" with each other during temblors.
Tutubi intends to visit the other two UNESCO World Heritage Baroque Churches someday. He missed Paoay Church during his Ilocos tour in 2003 but will surely won't the next time
no lens wide enough for Tutubi to take a full frontal photo of Sta. Maria Church's facade so this one would do. tip: visit it in the early morning as the church is facing east or late afternoon
the interi0r of the church is unmistakeably baroque with the usual four gospel writers, pulpit and gold-leaf decorated retablo (tableau)Original church structure by Augustinians as a chapel in 1769 with patron Our Lady of Assumption (Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion). The present stone and brick church was built in 1810 as stated on the NHI marker on the church facade. It's presently undergoing restoration and structural support repair to make it last for posterity.
massive buttresses line the church walls to support it in case of earthquakes
the church bell tower a few feet away from the main church structureWhat makes Sta. Maria Church unique is that it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the four Baroque Churches of the Philippines (the three others are San Agustin Church Manila, Miag-ao Church in Iloilo and San Agustin Church (Paoay Church) in Ilocos Norte). The church has remarkable universal value that should be preserved for the benefit of mankind.
Sporting the earthquake baroque architecture distinguished by it's massive buttresses to withstand earthquakes common in the Philippines and a belfry separate from the main church so as not to "bang heads" with each other during temblors.
Tutubi intends to visit the other two UNESCO World Heritage Baroque Churches someday. He missed Paoay Church during his Ilocos tour in 2003 but will surely won't the next time
Labels: Architecture, Churches, Ilocos Region, Ilocos Sur, UNESCO
posted by GingGoy @ 8:01 PM,
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The Interactive Map of Pagsanjan, Laguna
01 February 2011
As a tourism and backpacking advocate, Tutubi finds it so frustrating to search online for maps of supposedly tourist places but found most of them wanting if not available online. Tutubi has lately been not only into exploring places, providing information, honest and independent reviews and now helps map places he's visited to be used by everybody for free.
As a follow project to the map of Paete, Laguna that he helped improved from the former three road map to the latest, more detailed map available, here's now the interactive free map of Pagsanjan, Laguna's tourism capital, the gateway to the famous Pagsanjan Falls (that resides actually in Cavinti town)
Interactive Map of Pagsanjan Laguna:
On this map, you'll see the locations of various Pagsanjan Falls resorts, restaurants, churches, specifically:
Pagsanjan town hall,
Pagsanjan Medical Clinic and General Hospital
Christian General Hospital
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish (Pagsanjan Catholic Church)
Iglesia Ni Cristo
Iglesia Filipina Independiente (Aglipayan)
Banco de Oro (BDO) with ATM and Rural Bank of Pagsanjan
7-11, Mercury Drug,
Pagsanjan Academy
Pagsanjan Elementary School
GSIS Pagsanjan
Pagsanjan Pasalubong Center
Pagsanjan Public Market
Pagsanjan Arch
Aling Taleng's Halo-halo (the famous halo-halo joint that Tutubi finds rather ordinary)
Hana Japanese Restaurant
Hyundai Motors
Goodwill Supermarket
Monterey
Aling Emma's Kakanin (home of the minatamis na calamansi)
Jam Bus Terminal (the bus station of HM Transport and Green Star
HM Liner
Petron, Caltex, Shell, Total gas stations
Pagsanjan Falls Resorts currently on the map:
818 Resort
Pagsanjan Rapids Hotel
Bonanza Landing Area and Restaurant
Pagsanjan Falls Lodge andd Resort
La Corona de Pagsanjan
Rio Vista Lodge Resort
Magdapio Hotel and Restaurant
Tropical Inn and Restaurant
Future updates will include, when coordinates are available:
Pagsanjan Garden Resort
Fresh and Green Lodging Inn
New Ilaya Bakery
the vans/jeepney terminals going to Sta. Cruz, Calamba, Lucban and Tayabas (Quezon), Cavinti, Luisiana, Liliw, Nagcarlan, Magdalena, and Majayjay.
Pagsanjan's two major streets are Gen. Taiño and Rizal Street (where arco real is located) that are connected to Manila East Road (going to Sta. Cruz, Lumban and Cavinti towns)
Barangays currently updated: Barangay Uno, Dos, Biñan, Pagsawitan, San Isidro, Maulawin, Pinagsanhan, Magdapio and Brgy. Sampalocan.
As of posting time, this is the most detailed map of Pagsanjan you will find on the interwebs and the best part is that you can download it to your PC for offline viewing or installed in a GPS navigator (like Tutubi who uses a Garmin Nuvi 1300 for mapping) for route navigation.
Tutubi's hoping this online map will be found by a Pagsanjan local and further improve it by adding details and interesting places, where to eat (pagsanjan restaurants), spas and other places of interest and correct errors that may be present.
To edit the map, log on to Open Street Map...enjoy mapping!
As a follow project to the map of Paete, Laguna that he helped improved from the former three road map to the latest, more detailed map available, here's now the interactive free map of Pagsanjan, Laguna's tourism capital, the gateway to the famous Pagsanjan Falls (that resides actually in Cavinti town)
Interactive Map of Pagsanjan Laguna:
On this map, you'll see the locations of various Pagsanjan Falls resorts, restaurants, churches, specifically:
Pagsanjan town hall,
Pagsanjan Medical Clinic and General Hospital
Christian General Hospital
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish (Pagsanjan Catholic Church)
Iglesia Ni Cristo
Iglesia Filipina Independiente (Aglipayan)
Banco de Oro (BDO) with ATM and Rural Bank of Pagsanjan
7-11, Mercury Drug,
Pagsanjan Academy
Pagsanjan Elementary School
GSIS Pagsanjan
Pagsanjan Pasalubong Center
Pagsanjan Public Market
Pagsanjan Arch
Aling Taleng's Halo-halo (the famous halo-halo joint that Tutubi finds rather ordinary)
Hana Japanese Restaurant
Hyundai Motors
Goodwill Supermarket
Monterey
Aling Emma's Kakanin (home of the minatamis na calamansi)
Jam Bus Terminal (the bus station of HM Transport and Green Star
HM Liner
Petron, Caltex, Shell, Total gas stations
Pagsanjan Falls Resorts currently on the map:
818 Resort
Pagsanjan Rapids Hotel
Bonanza Landing Area and Restaurant
Pagsanjan Falls Lodge andd Resort
La Corona de Pagsanjan
Rio Vista Lodge Resort
Magdapio Hotel and Restaurant
Tropical Inn and Restaurant
Future updates will include, when coordinates are available:
Pagsanjan Garden Resort
Fresh and Green Lodging Inn
New Ilaya Bakery
the vans/jeepney terminals going to Sta. Cruz, Calamba, Lucban and Tayabas (Quezon), Cavinti, Luisiana, Liliw, Nagcarlan, Magdalena, and Majayjay.
Pagsanjan's two major streets are Gen. Taiño and Rizal Street (where arco real is located) that are connected to Manila East Road (going to Sta. Cruz, Lumban and Cavinti towns)
Barangays currently updated: Barangay Uno, Dos, Biñan, Pagsawitan, San Isidro, Maulawin, Pinagsanhan, Magdapio and Brgy. Sampalocan.
As of posting time, this is the most detailed map of Pagsanjan you will find on the interwebs and the best part is that you can download it to your PC for offline viewing or installed in a GPS navigator (like Tutubi who uses a Garmin Nuvi 1300 for mapping) for route navigation.
Tutubi's hoping this online map will be found by a Pagsanjan local and further improve it by adding details and interesting places, where to eat (pagsanjan restaurants), spas and other places of interest and correct errors that may be present.
To edit the map, log on to Open Street Map...enjoy mapping!
Labels: Calabarzon, Laguna, Maps, Pagsanjan, Southern Tagalog
posted by GingGoy @ 9:48 PM,
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