THE APO ISLAND EXPERIENCE | TRAVEL GUIDE

<– PREVIOUS… HOW TO ACHIEVE APO ISLAND IN 2 DAYS

PART 3: EXPERIENCE

DAY 1

By 5:30AM, we arrived at South Bus Terminal and we were thirty minutes late because “Filipino Time”. The 4:00AM bus was already full, and was ready to go. And so we waited for the next bus which arrives by 6.

And when it did, we hopped onto it and waited for an hour before we hit the road. And as expected we paid P215.00, and what we realized is that the breakdown of that fee is P190.00 fee Cebu to Bato, Samboan, which is the ferry port; and the remaining P25 is from Tampi port to Ceres Bus Terminal in Dumaguete City. And so, we still have to pay P70.00 for the ferry to make it P285.00 total… which was expected.

And so, the painful 4 hour ride plus almost 1 hour ferry plus another 45 minutes from Tampi port to Ceres Bus Terminal went on. Thankfully we arrived safe.

Then, we had lunch at Robinsons Dumaguete food court, and then checked in at Vintage Inn right after.

Vintage Inn

I booked at Vintage Inn a week before the date of our tour. But prior to arriving in Vintage Inn, I was still calling Harold’s Mansion: the famous budget friendly hotel in Dumaguete that has Dorms, good for 8 people, men and women separated, only for P250.00!; asking if there are available dorm beds for walk in customers that day since booking for their dorms is not allowed (bummer). Unfortunately, there were no guests who checked out by 12, and so we pushed through with our plans at Vintage Inn.

Photo credit: Kopilychee.com

Well, the Inn was across Dumaguete City’s public market and is in a commercial building together with some offices/businesses, which was uniquely odd for us Cebuanos. And although we only paid P319.00 each (see breakdown in Part 1 sec. III), the place was OKAY, although quite weird to say the least because of its hospital-ish rooms. You know that old rooms/wards in an old hospital? Yeah, but it was still quite an OKAY place to stay, except for the fact that mosquitoes can enter the room through an opening of the air conditioner, and they are freaking huge… although killable (LOL).

City Tour

We took a rest and by 4PM we pressed on with our city tour.

One of our friends has stayed in Dumaguete for 8 years so he led the tour.

Dumaguete City is a strong reminiscent of the old Cebu City.

First we went to their famous boulevard that has a century old tree looking strong and stunning in the middle. And then we went to the famous Sans Rival Cakes and Pastries to try their famous Silvanas and other treats as if it’s not available in Cebu. Anyhow, we were pleased with the low prices in there compared to the store in our hometown.

Sans Rival shop

Then we went to Siliman which was unfortunately dark but we still managed to do this:

After we had dinner at McDonald’s because we were on a strict budget.

Click the pictures to enlarge and drool:

DAY 2

Apo Island

We woke up at 5:00AM the next day, and bought breakfast at Jollibee and Chowking. We were running late so we took our breakfast and ate on the bus. When we arrived at Malatapay Market, I was surprised that only three of us have eaten, and so, I let the rest have their breakfast on one empty table in the market.

Anyway, we went straight to the port right after, and upon arriving: we were confused on what to do. There were lots of tourists waiting for outrigger boats and three people in charge were in disordered state as well, as if it was their first time. They were so unorganized that they don’t know what to do with the tourists.

TIP: Book ahead! Numbers can be seen in Part 1 sec. II.

Thankfully, I managed to book ahead and called the attention of one discombobulated woman who kept her anger from the other two by just smoking in one corner. I told her that I made an advanced booking and she let us write our names and then right after that, they found us an outrigger boat captain. We were then good to go, ahead of the rest.

The only problem we encountered was that the P3,000.00 boats for 8 were not available. They offered us the P3,500 good for 10 instead (but truthfully, I think they were bluffing). Thankfully, there were 2 tourists who haven’t got any rides yet, so I offered them the last 2 slots and they agreed.

TIP: Wear your swimming outfit already!

And so the outrigger boat sailed towards our destination… BUT it was a tough ride. I read some of the blogs say that the sea going to Apo Island is rough since it’s an exit point to Sulu Sea, and it would be best if people would visit during summer for calmer seas.

BUT it was not the case.

We went there in the middle of summer and there was no typhoon or rain for months but the sea was effed up. It was totally rough. I was in my ‘summer-fashion’ outfit and I instantly regretted that as I was dripping wet… I’m not exaggerating; we already took a bath prior to getting to the beach.

I was thinking: if this was the sea during summer, how much more if it’s on a rainy season?

TIP: Go to Apo Island on summer/dry season.

Upon arriving, I could already see the pristine water and a solid rock formation on the left side. And excitement entered my veins.

We registered at the Tourism Office for P100.00 per person which was at the beachfront, and then headed to the nearby diving/snorkeling orientation. We paid P50.00 snorkeling fee, and P100.00 snorkel rental fee. Some of us rented life vest for the same price.

What shocked me with the payment that wasn’t in the itinerary I made was the option to have a guide. Bloggers say that it’s an optional case. But I think that was before. Now, you’re not allowed to dive or even snorkel without a guide which is P300.00 for 4 persons. Also, there was a need for us to rent a cottage because there was nowhere to place our things along the shore. So we rented a P300.00 cottage fee. Still, this was not part of the itinerary I made because most bloggers did not mention this one before. But many things have changed and I think these two are part of it.

<–PREVIOUS… ITINERARY & COSTING

Snorkeling with Sea Turtles

And then we went to snorkel with sea turtles.

What we were expecting was that these turtles were elusive and hard to find. Prior to going, my partner was praying to the Gods that these turtles would show up even just a bit so we could feel completeness with our tour.

But then again, we were surprised (in a good way this time). When we dipped in the water, 10 seconds later we already saw one. My friends were already calling me because I had the GoPro, but I was still struggling with the slippery stones. And when I dipped and saw the turtle, I quickly rose up and backed away from shockingly seeing how HUMONGOUS it is.

I was laughing at myself and wasn’t expecting it. And so I dipped back, and watched how this creature acts in its natural habitat.

TIP: Buy yourself aqua shoes or what they call booties. There are P200.00 booties at SM stores. Renting the P100.00 would be impractical.

After minutes, I grew out of my fear and enjoyed… really enjoyed my time with the turtle!

And the best part was that we were just five meters away from the shore. Yep, that near to see them.

#ACHIEVE!

Then we get to see another turtle from afar and filmed it with joy. I can hear my partner giggling since his voice was echoing in the water. And I was enjoying it too. The fun thing was that these sea turtles were not afraid of humans! In fact, they nonchalantly eat underwater with lots of people surrounding them, and they just float there like a prima-donna… and I’m not complaining.

One of my frustrations in El Nido was not seeing Nemo (the Clown Fish), because I really loved the film that I wanted to see one in person in its natural habitat.

And just two meters away from the first turtle, NEMO APPEARED! The inner child in me was dancing with gladness and I just couldn’t help but smile and have fun! I was so excited that I reached with my hand only to get bitten by one of them. And I was like, “OH MY GOD, NEMO JUST BIT ME! BEST-DAY-EVERRRRRRRRRRRRR!”

We went back in our cottage after a sea-snake scare. It was frightening to say the least, that’s why it’s better if you just float than walk bare. They say sea-snakes don’t go above the corals and it was true. Thank GOD nothing happened.

And then we get to plan for our Lunch

TIP: If you want more information about diving: http://www.solitarywanderer.com/2015/01/diving-apo-island/

Lunch

The original plan was to have lunch at Liberty Lodge with the budget of P300.00 each, but then, the owner of the cottage offered us something better. She offered how they could do everything for our lunch for a price.

1 kilo Chicken – P140.00

1 ½  kilo Fish – P180.00

1 kilo Rice – P50.00

Spices, soy sauce, electricity, charcoal, soft drinks – P396.00

Labor fee (per person) – P75.00

TOTAL: P1,456.00

We had doubts at first with the total price, but when we divided it by 8 (since we were 8): we only need to pay P182.00 per person, and that’s really low from the expected P300.00 lunch at Liberty Lodge. So we agreed to it.

We had our chicken adobo and grilled fish and truthfully it was sumptuous and we still have leftovers.

And right after lunch, we went to the rock formation to have the… ahem… the “pang-profile picture” and “pang-Instagram” shoot.

Corals

As I’ve said, El Nido paved the way for me wanting to discover the sea-life more, and I thought it was just the same at Apo Island, but it was not at all. It was much more stunning at Apo Island.

After lunch we headed farther from where we saw the sea turtles before. The guide dragged us to the corals part and I was totally speechless from seeing the beauty of the underwater. Call me over acting but I was a bit emotional gazing upon the wonder in front of me.

It was too beautiful I could stay there for a year.

Lighthouse

After our coral reef experience, we headed up towards the lighthouse. It was a 312 step towards the highest point of the island. As a non-trekker… non-mover to be exact: I felt I was dying in the process of walking above.

It was very exhausting and hot and upon reaching at the top: you get to see the islands of Dumaguete, Cebu, Siquijor and behind, Mindanao.

I don’t know if it’s worth it, but all I know it was not fun.

Right after that, we went back down and the outrigger boat was already waiting for us. Then we headed back to the Apo Island port. And before we left, a sea-turtle even managed to take a peek out of the water. And we couldn’t help but smile.

PART 4: TAKEAWAY

Achieving Apo Island is costly but I can’t say that it’s not worth it. I was there. I experienced the waters, seeing the sea turtles and swimming with them as well, seeing other sea creatures like Nemo (clown fish), Dory (regal blue tang fish) and the others, the sublime corals and learning things about the island were priceless. I can definitely say this is one of the best things I’ve ever done, and one of the best spots in the Philippines. I am so happy I organized this trip and people came.

I am hoping and praying that people will be more aware of the damages caused by polluting the waters and global warming as well, because they affect the marine life. El Nido opened my eyes to the fact that Philippines is ‘WHAT-THE-HELL-THIS-IS-FUCKING-BEAUTIFUL-WHY-WOULD-ANYONE-TRY-TO-POLLUTE-OR-DAMAGE-THE-WORLD’: and Apo Island concretize that realization.

READ HERE: HOW TO ACHIEVE APO ISLAND IN 2 DAYS

MORE PHOTOS

This cutie’s last day since it was Fiesta the next day.

FINDING FOREVER IN SAGADA | INFORMATION AND EXPERIENCE [PHOTOS]

Walang Forever (there’s no forever).

But if you’re looking for one: they say go to Sagada. Well, that’s what the movie That Thing Called ‘Tadhana’ says and what embittered souls believe.

Besides that ridiculous hopeless romantic notion: Sagada is a town of Mt. Province in Luzon. It’s in the northern part to where crops and coffee beans are sourced by businesses, not just in Luzon but in the entire Philippines as well. Sagada Province is almost 500km from the metropolis Manila. Usually it’s a 9 hour drive from the city by a private car.

I got the chance to visit the wonders of Sagada and even the insanely popular belief that Sagada is a retreat only for the broken hearted: it could also be for family, friends and those who are in love.

 

PART 1: INFORMATION

I. AIRFARE TICKETS

In going to Sagada: you have to book a flight to Manila, Philippines whether it’s in NAIA or Clark, it all depends on what your itinerary is. You could either backpack or hire an agency to do all the work for you. (Tours usually pick you up in NAIA, MOA or Trinoma but seldom in Clark, Pampanga)

TIP: Sagada and Ilocos tours are usually from Fridays-Sundays for JOINERS*. So I suggest book your flights on a Thursday to Monday. (*JOINERS – tours that join groups if the number of pax is below 12/14 in 1 van)

 TIP: If you have a complete 12 OR 14 pax (depending on the tour agency), you can request a private tour instead for a cheaper price.

We got our tickets from Cebu to Manila for only P900.00 rountrip in Cebu Pacific’s LAST Piso fare promo last 2015 (they don’t offer Piso Fare promos anymore because of the eliminated fuel surcharge). And that P900.00 is already a great deal since usually it ranges from P1,000.00 to P7,000.00 on non-sale days.

 

II. SAGADA TOURS

Sagada is difficult to backpack due to the remoteness of the place. It’s a 9-hour non-stop drive from Manila (via agency tours), to where roads are treacherous.

The usual transportation to Sagada is via Bus which can take up to 15 hours of travel from the city and a real pain in the ass… literally. But then, who am I to stop you if you’re up to the DIY challenge? Just a caution: most accidents happened with busses because drivers tend to be reckless and fast.

But you can always have your vacation in a safer way, which is to hire an agency that offers Sagada tours. Most of the tours include the tourist spots, accommodation and van transfers.

We got our Sagada Tour for 3D2N at ByaheNiJuan Travels for the lowest price of P2,580.00 compared to other travel agencies that range from P2,900.00 – P3,500.00++.

 

ByaheNiJuan Facebook Page

0915 588 8962

 

Sagada Tour 3D2N (Banaue-Sagada-Baguio)

Every Fri-Sun (depart Thursday MOA – 7PM and Trinoma – 10PM) – For Joiner Tour

Any day – For Exclusive/Private Tour (Txt/Call office for rates)

 

PACKAGE RATES:

P2,580.00/Pax – 4-13 Persons (Quin/Quad Sharing)

P2,880.00/Pax – 3 Persons (Triple Sharing)

P2,980.00/Pax – 2 Persons (Twin Sharing)

P3,180.00/Pax – 1 Person (Single Room)

 

Rates not valid for:

A.) Additional 150/Person – Feb 01-Jun 15, 2016 Travel (Peak Season)

B.) Additional 200/Person – Regular Holidays and Special Non-working days /Long Weekend Travel (Peak Season)

C.) Additional 350/Person – Holy Week, Christmas, New Year Travel (Super Peak Season)

 

ACCOMMODATION(S):

1.) Villa de Familia

2.) Sagada Guesthouse

3.) Sagada Townhouse

4.) Mapiya-aw Lodge or similar class

 

TIP: Note that most tour packages that agencies offer in Sagada doesn’t include food, therefore you’ve got to have pocket money for about P2,000.00 and that’s if you’re really on a very, very tight budget. Because, food there ranges from P170.00++, mostly P200.00++ but it’s worth it ‘cause it’s delicious.

 

PART 2: ITINERARY

Here’s the itinerary provided by ByaheNiJuan tour:

 

DAY 0

07:00PM – MOA Open Parking

10:00PM – Trinoma Mall North Open Parking

11:00PM ETD Mnl-Sagada

 

DAY 01

06:30AM – Breakfast in Banaue (pax own)

Banaue Town

Banaue Rice Terraces View Point

08:30AM – Travel to Sagada

10:30AM – ETA in Sagada

11:00AM – Early Check in. Rest

12:00NN – Lunch (pax own)

01:00PM – Sumaguing Cave or Cave Connection – Burial Cave  (Guide Fee Pax own acct. This is optional)

 

DAY 02

05:00AM – Kiltepan View Point Sunrise Viewing (Subj to weather condition)

06:00AM – Breakfast (pax own)

07:30AM – Bomod-Ok Falls Trek (Guide Fee on pax own. This is optional)

11:30AM – End of Trek

12:00NN – Lunch (pax own)

01:00PM – Sagada Town Tour

Orange Farm (Seasonal)

Sagada Weaving

St. Mary’s Church

Pottery House

Campo Santo (Cemetery)

Echo Valley & Hanging Coffins

05:00PM – End of Tour

06:00PM – Dinner (pax own)

07:00PM – Back to accomm

 

DAY 03

06:00AM Breakfast (pax own)

07:00AM Check out. Travel to Baguio

Highest Point (Philippine Highway System) Atok, Benguet

10:00AM ETA in Baguio. Start of Tour

La Trinidad Souvenir Shop

Strawberry Farm – Strawberry picking is at a cost (Per Kilo.Pax own acct. This is optional)

Burnham Park and Swan Lake (Baguio)

Kennon Road View Point

Lions Head

12:00NN Lunch (pax own acct)

01:00PM Continuation of Baguio tour

03:00PM ETD Baguio-Manila

09:00PM ETA in Manila

 

PART 3: EXPERIENCE

DAY 0

We arrived at NAIA terminal 3 by 5 in the afternoon and the people were in a rush and traffic was bumper to bumper. It was my first time in Manila and not to be discriminatory, but it freaked me out a lot. I mean, there are horror stories that happened to people when they got out of the airport. And I was one freakish person who doesn’t want to get the same bad experience. So I cautioned myself by being alert and attentive like a wolf.

Anyway, we headed to Mall of Asia to have dinner and went directly to the meet-up place which was at the open parking just beside the Mall of Asia Arena.

We waited there for about an hour because we needed to wait for the other group, as we were in a ‘joiners’ package.

Anyhow, we hit the road by ten and it was time for a 9 hour drive to Sagada. And that’s when everyone fell asleep. Although we had three major stop overs; each for about 15 to 30 minutes.

 

DAY 1

Banaue

We arrived in Banaue by 6:00 in the morning and I was still droopy from sleepiness. We stopped by the borderline to where a huge “Welcome to Banaue” marquee stood tall. And there, we got to take pictures like Japanese tourists.

photo courtesy: ByaheNiJuan Travels

And then we pressed on. But then I realized, it was already 8 hours passed and we were still in Banaue. But I got my hopes up when our driver told us that Sagada was already the next stop.

Anyway, we took our breakfast at Banaue Rice Terraces View Point where we could eat while we feast our eyes to the wonderful rice terraces view outside the window.

After, we got to pose once more for pictures of the Rice Terraces as a backdrop.

 

Sagada

Then it was another 2 and a half drive to Sagada. Oh my Gosh, we were on the road for about 12 hours (stop overs included). And to be honest, it was excruciating.

TIP: Never forget your neck pillow, headphones, phones, tablets, laptops, favorite chairs, tables TV, speakers, wardrobe, your entire house, because it was that exhausting. Just kidding to some of those though.

In Sagada, we checked in first at Villa D’ Familia. And upon entering: we can smell the scent of coffee enveloping the entire premise, making it feel like I’m in Starbucks, only it’s a house… and I’m not exaggerating. The scent of fresh coffee was euphoric; it even gave me an idea to do the same with my future house… and I don’t drink coffee. We found the source of the scent which was a coffee dispenser beside the door. And the best thing was that IT-WAS-FREE! My partner’s inner child giggled as if it was an award from getting a perfect score in an exam.

photo courtesy: Eden Pancho

Anyway, the house was cozy and clean. And what I liked about it was the hot and cold shower which was the silver lining to the cold weather.

photo courtesy: Eden Pancho

 

Sumaguing Cave

Then our adventure started at Sumaguing Cave. It is the famous cave in Sagada where you could choose between two adventures: first, the connection or second, the short route. In the connection, you have to walk, crawl and swim for about five hours from the mouth of the cave where you could also discover some damaged caskets of dead Igorot ancestors, to the final exit cave. In the short route: its entre is on the exit part of the connection to where you only need thirty or shorter minutes to climb down the bottom of the slippery cave. Well, it depends on who you’re with. In our case, people are too selfie freaks that they take about 10 minutes to get ‘the shot’. And it’s difficult to get ‘the shot’ because of total darkness.

I had, for a fact, found difficulty in climbing down due to the damp walkway with inclusions of bat-shit we call ‘guano’. The locals suggest climbing down barefoot because slippers and shoes are slippery. Well, you could always use expensive caving shoes, if you can afford.

And that’s what I did. I climbed down barefoot, and it was ew to say the least. But it was worth it. The cave was huge and gorgeous. The water flowing on every level was freezing, it made my feet numb. And the difficulty in going down was a bit rough, especially for chubby people like me. But I tell you, it’s all worth it.

Like with other famous caves in the Philippines: this one has lots of formations in it ranging from religious to indecorous.

TIP: Bring underwater cameras and dress lightly and properly since you’d be wet from this experience.

 

DAY 2

Bomod-ok Falls (trail)

photo courtesy: ByaheNiJuan Travels

The next day, we prepped ourselves for a long walk to Bomod-ok Falls which is a famous spot in Sagada. We went to a certain place that has a narrow one-way road and did a short orientation on what to do. Then they gave us sticks because sometimes snakes glide across the cemented walkway… like a casual jaywalker. But thankfully it didn’t happen.

Anyway, the trail was 45 minutes to an hour long, but it was not difficult to manage walking downwards because as I’ve said, the walkway was cemented (mostly). While on the trail, you’ve got to gaze upon the gorgeous Sagada mountains to which all you can do is sigh… then appreciate.

When we arrived at the falls, we got to see boulders of rocks surrounding the place and there are only a few spots where you can actually take a dip. The current of the waterfalls was also strong at that time.

After taking antidepressant selfies, we got to dip in the FREEZING water. And Oh my God. I only dipped for 5 seconds because it was dead freezing: my balls had to squeeze just to compensate for the cold. Oops.

The rainbow totally heightened my gayness.

We didn’t take much time there: although it was beautiful, there’s really nothing much to do there. So we hike back up to which we found harder than climbing down. My partner, I and most of my fellow mountain hiking rookie friends almost died in the process.

TIP: For inexperienced hikers: Pack lightly. Just bring money, clothes for changing and water. There is a stop in the middle of the trail to where you could rest and buy some snacks. There’s also a snack-bar at the falls’ location.

Anyway, there was one thing that caught my attention when we were doing the hike. We heard explosions followed by rumblings on the ground for two to three times. And when we asked our tour guide on what it was: she explained that there’s gold mining underneath the mountain we were walking. That explains weird carts that are strangely set up in one place, and some sacks of soil everywhere, only to find out they weren’t just normal soils: they had silver with it.

 

Orange Farm (Seasonal), Sagada Weaving, St. Mary’s Church, Pottery House

After, we went back but unfortunately the Orange Farm was not in its full bloom so we had to ditch that one. Also, we didn’t experience the Pottery House. I didn’t know why, but I think it was because these experiences are seasonal.

photo courtesy: ByaheNiJuan Travels

Like with Sagada Weaving, to where you could see women weave local fabrics and even sew them into useful items like wallets, bags and etc. Thankfully, Sagada Weaving was available at that time, so we got to see the weaving process and the items in their store.

At St. Mary’s Chruch, we got to wander around the beautiful yard that has a lot of pine trees and green grass.

photo courtesy: ByaheNiJuan Travels

 

Campo Santo Cemetery (Devil’s Mountain)

It’s freaky to say the least, but after St. Mary’s Church we head up to the Hell Mountain, Campo Santo Cemetery.  It’s called such because on all souls day, people gather at the top of the hill to start a fire on the tombstones of their loved ones, to which formally is called ‘Festival of Lights’.

Although, we didn’t experience the festival itself: you could Google it and see the cemetery turn into creepy hell-like scene from the movies. It’s already creepy with only the tombstones, how much more if there are flames… all over the hill.

Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins

After the cemetery, we headed straight to the Echo Valley where you can scream your lungs out and hear your voice echoing; like screaming, “WALANG FOREVER!” which is a trend.

trail to Echo Valley & Hanging Coffins

Right after that, we get to do another hike down to another creepy spot: Hanging Coffins. And mind you, we’ve been to several hiking activities and my legs were already sore!

TIP: Switching hot and cold water could ease up the muscle soreness.

Anyway, the Hanging Coffins experience became creepier when the tour guide explained that the reasons of their Igorot ancestors in doing such are pure negativity. Like when one dies due to inauspicious or unlucky circumstance or when one dies in the middle of farming or hunting that they considered jinxed, and many other discomforting reasons.

The tour guide also explained that there are a lot of hanging coffins on mountain cliffs at another spot further than the ones in Echo Valley.

 

Day 3

Kiltepan Viewpoint… or not

It was our final day in Sagada and it has to start at Kiltepan Viewpoint… or not. Well, our driver suggested us not to do the hike up the viewpoint because, he says, it’s far, cold, the view is not that good as it’s blocked by trees, and the place is crowded.

This was actually proven by friends who have gone to Kiltepan viewpoint. They agreed to what our driver told us that the hype, because of the film, is bogus. That’s beside the fact that the exploited viewpoint is too crowded. My friends’ photo even resembles MRT rush hour in Manila, or religious processions. They were also dissatisfied with their Kiltepan experience… but not us.

Since our only purpose on why we were there is to see the sun rise behind the mountain while the sea of clouds astonish us: our driver suggested another spot that’s more appealing than in Kiltepan Viewpoint.

And, he was right. This was our 180 degrees stunning view:

Although, the spot to where we were is less safe since it’s just beside the road and the cliff respectively, but the consolation was the view. And we were careful so we won’t fall off the cliff though.

Anyway, I get to see the sea of clouds and the sun slowly rise while at the same time, checking the experience off from my bucket list. It was so beautiful and placid; my soul could agree that for the short time I was gazing on the killer view: I felt inner peace.

TIP: IF your sunrise-sea of clouds viewing is on the 3^rd day, I suggest for you to buy something to eat the night before since you will not really stop to some restaurants since they’re basically closed in the early mornings and you’d head straight to Baguio.

 

 

Halsema Highway, Atok, Benguet

After the rejuvenating experience, we then headed to Baguio. And I dare you not to close your eyes when you’re on your way, especially when in Benguet because the view of the mountains is absolutely breathtaking. It’s one of the best experiences I had of the tour.

apologies ’cause technically this is in Banaue, but when you reach Benguet part, there are a lot of mountains with Rice Terraces as well to which I think has a more gorgeous view in than in Banaue.

Then we reached to the most dangerous highway in the Philippines, the Halsema Highway. It is the highest highway in the country that’s infamous for road accidents… or shall I say, cars falling off the cliff accidents, because the street is not just narrow, but blind curves and reckless drivers are everywhere. Not to mention the slippery roads during wet seasons.

Anyway, when we got to the highest point of the highway, we got to see the amazing view of the mountains of Benguet.

And right after that, we went to La Trinidad (to where we buy some strawberry jams and souvenirs), Baguio and back to Manila.

 

PART 4: TAKEAWAY

Going to Sagada is NOT easy as a pie especially when you do it DIY. You’d have to take into account the restlessness of the time you’ll be spending inside the van or bus from Manila to Sagada and vice versa, and working your way through the spots in Sagada which some are far. I am not halting you to do DIY, but I’m advising you not to. Instead, hire an agency that could take care of the itinerary.

Sagada was just a photo on our house calendar, and with visiting the spot was a dream come true. I realized how clever nature and culture unified is. Also, I get to try delicious food and pure coffee delight in Sagada which you can read on my other blogpost WHERE TO EAT IN SAGADA. By the end of the trip, my takeaway was that Sagada, while it’s a hassle ride: it’s still worth the try.

 

PART 5: COSTING

NOTE: This breakdown is for 1 person only & doesn’t include souvenirs.

Airfare                  –              P900.00

Tour Pacakge     –              P2,580.00

Food                      –              P2,000.00

Tour Guide fees:

1. Sumaguing Cave           P150.00

2. Bomod-ok Falls            P100.00

TOTAL –                P6,630.00 or roughly P7,000.00

DEAR TAYLOR SWIFT

 

 

 

 

Dear Taylor,

 

My name is Don; I’ve been an avid fan of yours ever since I laid my ears on the very first song that became an instant hit here in the Philippines. And ever since, your songs have always been a therapy, theme songs and best of all, my best friend.

I’m writing this because I’m just so sad that I did not make it to your Red Concert in Manila. It’s very unfortunate; however, in my absence in that stadium is the presence of the memories running back through your songs I’m listening now.

The impact of the lyrics told to me became the instant advice; some became the sudden realization; and some became the voice that words can’t be described on my own.

 

Remember the time when you said ‘I can see it now’? I did, and always have been daydreaming of a future together with someone I really like even when I just met him. It takes me years ahead, flash forward to the times that it’s supposed to be, which I’m hoping to be. It’s a rollercoaster ride; ups and downs, loving and saying goodbyes, yet still lasts forever until we get old thinking he’s the best thing that’s ever been mine. Yeah, I saw it.

Those uncharted moments when everything is just so uninteresting but then I suddenly saw this guy in the crowd and no words to describe it but, ‘It was enchanting’. It’s the best of the best feelings: first enchanting meetings, in which you felt sparks and never letting go. I was just wonderstruck walking back way home thinking about that same guy over and over; blushing and laughing. Then, I remembered looking straight at that guy and telling him the exact words I held back in my mind that you also said, ‘Please don’t be in love with someone else, please don’t have somebody waiting on you.’ And at that moment, everything felt flawless.

When you correlated emotions to the colors Blue, Grey and Red… it was just the perfect metaphor for the strong and inaudible emotions I felt for the times I fell in love. You told me that.

And on the saddest experiences in my life; falling in love and getting hurt and just being sad about it… you were just there, saying the words even I can’t dare think or ponder about. When you were helping me reminisce the beautiful past of a failed relationship in exact words like ‘wind in my hair, I was there, I remember it all too well’. Maybe my relationship got lost in translation, maybe I asked for too much and surely that relationship was a masterpiece until he tore it all apart. I was a crumpled up piece of paper lying, broken hearted… just like what you descrribed.

Another sad experience was regretting something and wished for him to come back like he would if this life was a movie and true to what you said: freedom ain’t nothing but just missing that person… I would surely go back to that month all the time and make it all right.

Remember the times when you were with me on my path for revenge? When I felt like it was too unfair on my part that he left me with someone he doesn’t even know that much? It really felt like sabotage. And you helped me with my revenge by saying ‘sophistication isn’t what you wear and what you know’ and ‘no amount of vintage dresses gives you dignity’ which truly describes that person who looked clueless but totally bitching her way to him. She might have him, but I’d always have the last word. Whatever.

When I had just the worst relationship ever, and people are asking me if we’d get back, and I’m just like, ‘We’re NEVER EVER EVER EVER GETTING BACK TOGETHER’, and just dance about it instead… which will be awkward. Haha!

Then on my high school days… let’s add college days, where every guy I loved felt like someone I will never touch because I’m just invisible in his heart. The times where they liked some girls but I know deeply that they will never love this guy the way I will love him though. It’s hyperly hopeless romantic.

Those times when I was so deeply in love but you just couldn’t push it through because of hurtful things happened, and on that very separation stage; you have his number and you just wished to call him because you miss him and you want everything back, but you just can’t because you can’t risk another goodbye… yeah, I almost do.

But the fact that you just taught me to fall in love, get hurt and rise back to your feet, take risks and just be fearless became the best principle you taught me. I learned to take it slow, capture moments, remember it, dance in the rain, just fall in love, head-first, fearless.

Those funny times where we thought, daydreaming of things like ranting to a wedding and telling the guy not to marry that girl because she’s not worth it, because I am. It was just so hilarious, I couldn’t help myself. You said to me, ‘Speak now, or forever hold your peace’, and instantly I became the person who tells people what I feel the need to be told.

When falling in love will often be not to the right person, when knocking on someone’s door might be trouble, and you have no one to blame but only you. When loving someone who only thinks of himself instead of the relationship. It was just the worst!

When realizing that I have grown up, we have grown up, and looking back not on the happy thoughts but on the hurtful things we’ve been through and looking in the future for more of it: it’s just so scary, wishing we would just never grow up? But you can’t.

Whenever my partner and I fight; I always remember the things that you said that were exactly describing me whenever it happens. The words like, ‘I said ‘leave’ but all I really want is you’ and ‘when I left I wanted you to chase after me’. It’s really stupid and predictable, but that’s me and that’s what loving someone’s supposed to be, chasing, isn’t it? Then words scramble in my mind trying to get out of my mouth like the things you said in that song yet all you wanted to say is ‘I need you.’

And with that, I just told my partner “STAY, STAY, STAY”. Haha! It’s all so crazy… falling in love.

Those memories when I was with a guy who was too vain about himself and did not make me happy which all ended, and I was never really hoping to fall in love again; everything was just dark and for the past months all I thought that love has ever done was to break, burn and end… but then, eventually, you will meet that one guy that will take it all away, appreciate you, love you and laugh at your jokes… and you suddenly realize: you watched love begin again.

When you told me that falling in love worlds away is falling in love in the cruelest way was just so true, especially when my partner was gone away for days.

Love really is a ruthless game unless you play it good and right.

And then there’s when we hang out together in our twenties but we don’t know anything about life and it’s AWESOME. We were happy, free, confused and lonely in the best way. Doing crazy things with friends and just dancing our hearts away singing to the song we know and just be awkward about it. And you told me, ‘Everything will be alright if we just keep dancing like we’re 22.’ And we realized that life will just fall into place in the right time.

 

I have to admit, my heart shattered just by watching videos of you having your concert in Manila and not being able to be there, jumping around and screaming my lungs out still I know one day we’ll meet and tell you stories about everything that I just told here. And I know you’ll make songs that will surely be the next theme songs of my life and love, will inspire and most especially will be my new best friends.

Cheers! And keep it coming!

 

Your crazy fan,

Don

THIS EUROPEAN SITUATION | HUNA-HUNA CLIFF RESORT [PHOTOS]

–          ★★★★

The dreading city life requires you to escape from it in order to maintain balance in your life. Ahh, the relaxation you acquire gives you pleasure. Whenever you look online for a place to stay or to escape; there’s always something that holds you back. But this time; try to pursue it, and you’ll be pleased.

And one resort that’ll give you that exact relaxation away from the city is in Huna-Huna Cliff Resort. It is located at Buyo, boundary Carmen/Catmon, Cebu.

Huna-Huna is a Visayan word for thinking, pondering or contemplating. True to its name; Huna-Huna Cliff Resort offers you a peace and serenity for a calm experience.

With its European Villa inspired theme; you could never go wrong to its relaxing feel facing the vast Camotes Sea. This European situation requires your full attention to its nonchalant ambiance convalescing from your city life.

The white walls and marble tiles of the villa are idyllic, hinting Santorinni, Greece.

The overhead pass is nostalgia of somewhere in France; and the Family house for number of guests makes me remember of an Italian Villa.

The beaut of the place gives time for yourself to escape and contemplate your life while sitting on the bench looking afar on the effervescent Camotes Sea.

Guest House in Huna Huna

 

GOING THERE

Going to the resort is easy.

All you need to do is to ride a bus bound north at North Bus Terminal, near SM City Cebu. There you will find huge busses; and all you need to find is Ceres Liner. It’s fast, hourly and safe (sometimes, depends on the driver).

When telling the co-operator of the bus (kondoktor) where you’re heading; you can directly say in Huna-Huna, because most of them already know where it is. If not, then tell him at Buy, boundary Carmen/Catmon. The cost will only be P55.00 per person; so it’s not that really expensive.

From the city, you’ll be travelling 1 hour and a half if there’s no traffic. The resort can be found on the right side of the path; and there’s a marquee on the side of the road, if you have a car of your own or the co-operator forgets about you and where you’re heading.

 

TIP: Whenever you reach Carmen, Cebu; call the co-operator’s attention and make him remember where you’re heading. Or better yet, open Google Maps if you’re on 3G, but I doubt it will operate well on the countryside.

 

THE PLACE

Booking ahead is always the best thing to do whenever you want to go to a certain place so that you’ll have a guaranteed stay. And when calling the resort (numbers at the end of the post), they will ask you to pay full at their Banilad, Cebu office.

For me, trying to book a room for the next day was lucky because I was only giving a promise to them that my partner and I will not cancel our reservation. But that was really our plan, so cancellation would be inevitable (hehe), but really, try to book really ahead of time.

The air conditioned rooms are available for P2000.00, good for 2 pax with breakfast, and the check in time is 1:00PM, check out on the next day, same time. (Room rates below)

They also have a 2 storey guest house, good for family or group of people.

The resort also offer some relaxing spa treatment for the price range of P900.00-P1,500.00.

 

THE ROOM

We stayed in Room 11 of the resort, and that is on the bottom-most part on the cliff near the beach where you could take a dip.

The room is just fabulous. Its clean and our stay there was marvellous. If relax is what you’re looking for, then this is perfect for you.

The room is small BUT very, very relaxing. You’ll have your own veranda with table and seats; and for us at Room 11, the sea is just beneath us. It really looks luxurious even thinking about it right now makes me want to go back there.

Staying in their room makes me want to stay there forever.

I love their lights which have the control switch on how bright you want it to be; the very functional hot and cold water which for other resorts are not present; and the bed is soft, so as the pillows and the comforter.

The bed is facing the glass door with the sea as our breath taking view. The window on our left side is a perfect instrument for the sunrise to take a peek before we realize it.

Sometimes you’ll forget to close the glass door and hear the rushing sound of waters outside while you are lying like a king or queen in your very comfortable bed.

And our veranda is perfect for dinnertime, with the warm, romantic lights plus the stars above us.

It was just pure lux. C’est la vie.

 

TIP: And you should try to ask if Room 11 is available. *wink

 

THE FOOD

The food is variety there, and mostly it offers Filipino style of cooking. But their breakfast is mixed from Filipino to American to whatever it is in their menu that you’d like to have.

You’ll only have to order ahead of time because they still have to prepare your food from scratch, so it takes a bit of time to finish and serve it to you.

The price ranges from P130.00 – P250.00 depending on what MEAL you order. There are also offers that reach P300.00-P500.00; these are specialties.

 

THE BEACH

The beach is just part of the resort with no shoreline that is a little bit rocky on most parts. I did not get the chance to swim because I really did not want to. I just wanted to relax in our room, and in our sophisticated veranda.

 

THE USHER-DOG

When we checked in, we were greeted by a huge black dog (I have no idea what breed it was) which I was much afraid of at first due to its size; when we walked down to our room; he was ahead of us following the attendant, and whenever we stopped, the dog looks at us trying to signal something; then we realized he wants to take us to our room. The dog named ‘she-she’ (I think) was really, really sweet. She had our hearts just for a short stay there because of her kindness to visitors.

 

HUNA-HUNA CLIFF RESORT

I’m still pondering how relaxed my partner and I were on that resort, and wishing we could just lie there forever… with money magically appear on our table. HAHA

But then, Huna-Huna Cliff Resort is a resort away from hassle.

 

CONTACT

Cellphone: 09173179741/09322242375

FACEBOOK

WEBSITE

 

ROOM RATES

*According to hunahuna.com as of 4/8/2014

Air Conditioned Rooms

Php 2,000

Inclusive Breakfast for 2 (two) persons

Prices are regardless of single or double occupancy

Extra Bed without breakfast Php 500

 

Fan Rooms

Php 1,000 to Php 1,500

Exclusive of breakfast

Prices are regardless of single or double occupancy

Extra Bed without breakfast Php 500

 

*Day use (maximum of 3 hours)

Air Conditioned Rooms

Php 800 (Php 100 each extra hour)

 

Fan Rooms

Php 500 (Php 100 each extra hour)

 

Entrance fee is Php 75 with free use of our cottages. Huna Huna Cliff Resort reserves the right to refuse or discontinue at any time any accommodation to any persons it deems unacceptable under its standard.

 

RATING

Rooms – 5

Food – 3

Service – 3

Facilities – 3

Ambiance – 5

OVERALL – 3.8/5

 

MORE PHOTOS

our veranda in the evening

Our veranda in the morning

Our room in the evening

Sunrise

 

 

 

 

ESPANOL AND LECHE FLAN, ANYONE? | IPAR’S RESTAURANT REVIEW [PHOTOS]

 

–    ★★★★

How authentic is authentic?

One evening, when my partner and I went to a restaurant that serves “authentic” Spanish cuisine (mixed with Filipino), and I was undeniably disappointed. First and foremost, two of the specific cuisines they offer are supposed to be amped up with flavors because Spanish people once hailed towards far Asia to search for spices, and this should be elementary. But it results to a bland taste, which for me is unrighteous. And second, the price does not compensate the offers.

And then we have Ipar’s: Authentic Spanish Cuisine restaurant at Ramos St., Cebu City, (along the Velez University road) which is also offers “authentic” Spanish cuisine. I have a Hispanic bloodline, so I shall judge… (hehe)

Ipar’s has long been famous for obvious articles that are boastfully posted on their walls with the owner/chef’s in it. Ipar’s has been praised due to the dishes that is closely or a true replica of a certain dish from Spain, since the chef himself has thoroughly studied on why do Spanish cuisine ticks to millions of people around the globe.

I applaud the place.

It’s a real Hispanic interior. Impressive from its huge Spanish-restaurant rodeo cloth hanging above the high ceiling to their cooking pans that hung on the walls which gives the exact feel of a Spanish kitchen.

They have an array of canvass posted together with the pans, and some Hispanic photographs and artifacts that makes you feel you’re in the right place.

I love how Ipar’s makes you feel like you’re not in the Philippines but in Spain. It’s a true plus point.

Now to their Food. They have a Spanish menu (which will be awkward if it’s not), that are separated according to their kind, whether it’s Carnes (Pork, Beef, Lambs), Ensaladas (Salads), Aves (Fowl/Chicken) or Pescado Y Mariscos (Fish and Shellfish) … (wow, so proud of me mentioning these Spanish words).

Try their Pechuga en Salsa (Chicken breast in cream sauce topped with sliced mushroom)… should I explain further? Anyway, it’s very tasteful. I love the overpowering saltiness that gives it a wow factor. This will cost you P180.00

Also their Chuletas de Cerdo al Ajillo which are porkchops sautéed in garlic sauce that costs P200.00. This is very delicious. The garlic sauce is a perfect component in this dish that gives enough flavor for you to savor.

For some, salads are eaten before the main course, but I really don’t. It could be I eat it after or during. I’m weird.

Anyway, I love for you to try their Ensalada Mixta Completa (Mixed green salad) that has this vinegar-ish flavor that culminates the salad experience. I’ve never tasted like that anywhere (if you do, let me know). This salad cost P120.00

They have this superstar offer that is ranted all over Foursquare. It costs P70.00 and it’s their Leche Flan. Some say it’s the BEST leche flan in town, and we certainly agree with all of them. It’s very flavorful, and you just can’t stop taking a scoop of it until you get none.

The food in Ipar’s are good and how it stays true to the tagline “Authentic Spanish Cuisine”. My only concern is that because of its too much flavor, you may end up not finishing your food because it can always be too much for the taste, resulting to a feel of disgust it your gut. (BIDLI in Bisaya). Although the price range of the offers is from the lowest, P180.00 which are mostly salads, P200.00-P500.00 which are mostly the main dish, which is quite steep for budget diners out there.

But I’m happy because the other week it was closed due to a reserved party, so you plan ahead and call them before you go there.

Overall, it was a nice dining experience. Check out Ipar’s and tell us what you think.

SCHEDULE

Dinner – 6:00-10:00PM

CONTACT (for reservation)

Facebook

032 255-4727 or 032 410-7727

Ipars.com.ph

RATINGS

Place – 4

Service – 3

Pechuga en Salsa – 3

Chuletas de Cerdo al Ajillo – 4

Ensalada Mixta en Completa – 4

Leche Flan – 5

OVERALL – 4

 

THE PIZZA CHALLENEGE | WORLD PIZZA: AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 PIZZAS | AT FRENCH PARK

– ★★★★★ (3.3.14)

The Parisian themed restaurant, La Maison Rose (The Pink House) has grown to a much better spot in the Queen City which I now claim The French Park. First, it expanded to a Parisian wine junction; La Vie Parisienne, and now a pizza place has sprouted in the same spot, and it’s called WORLD PIZZA: Around the world in 80 Pizzas.

The World Pizza has quite some worldly taste, instead of just pure French. They offer 80 different kinds of pizzas from the Philippines to the world.

The spot has just a bar for the waiters and waitresses to stay and get the orders, together with the European style stove where the pizzas are cooked; and just some chairs and tables around. The best thing is that they have a huge hammock that looks like the ones I’ve seen on 9gag, which seems relaxing, and when I was there, kids were enjoying the swinging treat.

The best thing was that the waitress told us that we could go and sit anywhere, from La Maison Rose, La Vie Parisienne to World Pizza, just as long as it’s in The French Park.

Try their American pizza that costs P250.00 and also their Laos pizza that costs P210.00. Both are equally delicious and sumptuous, and my partner was indeed super impressed by the way it was flavoured.

You can also blend two pizzas at a time for the highest price of the two you’ve chosen. What I mean was that; just like us, we bought American for P250 and Laos for P210, we paid P250 pesos because it’s the highest price of both.

TIP: If you’re planning to mix two flavours at the same time; choose those treats/pizzas that have the same price or at the same price range. If you choose the P250.00 pizza, better make sure the half of it also costs P250 or at that range.

The Pizza Challege

Now, my partner and I were really impressed by it, so we made a deal to experience another pizza treat that comes from another country to experience of what it taste like in other places just like the way I imagined it to be.

Now, the challenge starts… care to join us?

PIZZA RATINGS

American – 4

Laos – 5

A SOUTHERN LEYTE TREASURE | MAASIN EXPERIENCE

Maasin is part of Southern Leyte and has a crime rate of almost zero. Maasin is a small town with lots of pedicab ride as a means of transportation. People spoke the accent as of the people in Bohol, collocating ‘y’ to ‘j’ like the word ‘Unya’ which means ‘later’ in English, which is somehow uttered as ‘Unja’.

It’s my first time in Maasin, and my first in Southern Leyte too. And this is the hometown of my partner and this is also my first time to spend Christmas away from home and my first time to spend it with someone really special. So, as you have read, there are a lot of first times happened.

But, Maasin is just a small part of Southern Leyte and is slowly progressing to a bigger name. Yet, when I was there; I’ve found good stuffs to visit and try.

GETTING THERE

We had to ride either a Cokaliong ship or Roble that will take us from Cebu port to Maasin port directly, but has the schedule of Tuesdays and Thursdays. In our trip; it was a special one on the very eve of Christmas.

The ride was five and a half hours long, and there was not much in the infinite ocean that bridges us towards our destination. Although, it was for a fact a little bit rainy and gloomy so instead of whining; I just took the chance to savor the grayness beauty of the surrounding. And it did not fail me.

 

WHERE TO STAY?

If you want to be in the accessible part of Maasin, which is just near to everywhere you want to be; try Southern Comfort hotel that priced you cheap with an okay room to stay. Although not really a five star kind, but surely, if you want an affordable and a nice place to sleep; this is the hotel for you.

WHERE TO EAT?

Maasin has a lot of Karenderias specifically what they call McDo. Nope, not McDonald’s, but a comic term ‘Mag-duko-duko’ which translates ‘bowing’ in English, meaning when you eat in that barbecue spot; you usually bow your head as to savor the taste of whatever offer it is in there.

Azotea de Maasin

But there is also a spot in Maasin that has just opened which gives you a city view: Azotea De Maasin. A home-style restaurant located at a high point which in a distant you can see the entire Maasin.

 

Great view with cool wind blowing through my chilling senses that is perfect for lovers and friends.

GRECIAN RESORT

My partner took me together with his cousins in a nearby sea-side with a nonchalant but slowly getting the fame resort named Jaime’s Resort. The beaut is such Grecian that made me fall in love while taking a sip of my cold chocolate drink and having that magnificent façade, facing the vast, blue ocean and telling me how far I am away from home, all behind my wayfarer glasses.

You can also have your stay there in Jaime’s Resort for a steeper price, yet satisfaction guaranteed while staying.

You can also watch or play with the European owner’s golden retrievers that will surely uplift your spirits.

GET LOST

While one of my dreams is to travel the world; I would perfectly like to get lost in a small town like this and discover on my own. It’s perfectly safe, and everyone is surely willing to help you locate your destination.

Maasin is a place with lots of corners plus some traditional houses; a refashion of the Spanish colony way years ago.

It was Christmas time when I got there and the festive is not extravagant as of the one in Cebu; yet you can still see the glimpse of Christmas lights on each house and in their plaza that has a big Christmas tree with a sleigh ride going round in circles for children and adults alike.

My partner took me to places in Maasin at night, specifically in the plaza of their provincial seat that has a humongous field with uncanny trees plus a glance of the clear night sky above. All in a pedicab ride.

The pedicab ride gives you also a straight fact of how provincial Maasin is, and how far the place is from advancement; but that’s a good thing to start with, because, of all the places in the Philippines that’s growing; we also need some places that should remain as what it is. It may have a little upgrading; but I prefer culture over it in this Southern treasure.

Pedicab Ride

By the day, his mother and niece took me above one of the highest peaks in Maasin which was the Monte Cueva Shrine. Its location is atop the mountainous part, and has a thousand steps before you reach the very solemn cave church.

You can see how religiously inclined these people are; and so I can relate. The cave is a dome shaped treasure in Maasin that has a light coming from a trap above the cave ceiling that allows light to enter and illuminate the statue of Jesus praying at the altar depicting the Holy Father talking to him.

I love staying even just a little while in this place, even when I’m catching my breath from the tiring thousand steps we took.

Then we get to see the shrine that has a Mother Mary statue right above the highest peak facing the entire beauty of Maasin.

Maasin on broad daylight

Also, I got the chance to pray in their old church that offers Latin masses for people who understands the language.

I never got the chance to visit the other shrine in Maasin which was more famous due to time constraint.

You can sense the true rural form that culminates calm and peaceful. You can also feel the growing need for advancement, but still grab a hold to the most important thing which is the Culture.

I wished I had more time exploring the growing wonders of the place, but maybe next time I visit, then it has plenty more for me.

Sunrise upon going home to Cebu

MORE PHOTOS

Inside Maasin’s Church

The Cave Church’s entrance

THE BEST OF 2013

2013 was a great year for new restaurants since the knowledge and the need of some people in Cebu or the lovely visitors are wide and they now wanted variety of experiences.

It is also a great year for coffee houses, specifically Korean owned ones, because of the calm and warm ambiance they have that’s what Filipino’s wanted from the very beginning.

Also, junctions for friends or socialite groups have also started to sprout in the queen city like of some cupcake houses or in La Vie Parisienne.

Well, summing it all up to the best of the best in 2013 from all the restaurants, coffee houses, cupcake houses and everything in my blog that we’ve been.

So here’s the roundup.

BEST RESTAURANT: KUYA J

 

Having variety of flavorful offers, my favorite is their baked scallops; Kuya J doesn’t offer you only good food but also good service and ambiance. With stylish contemporary façade; you could never go wrong in this place.

READ MORE FROM KUYA J HERE

BEST COFFEE/TEA HOUSE: CAFÉ NORITER

 

Undoubtedly, the most talked about Café this year was Café Noriter. With the warm and cozy ambiance and a fun ‘no-chair-just-sit-on-the-floor’ theme; Café Noriter will surely make you feel comfortable in all sides of the café.

READ MORE FROM CAFÉ NORITER HERE

BEST CUPCAKE HOUSE: CAFÉ CAW

 

A cupcake house which is also in the category of a coffee house; Café Caw is the best cupcake house there is in town. With variety of delish offers, from cupcakes to coffee/tea; Café Caw is the best there is to offer when we talk about the spot itself.

READ MORE FROM CAFÉ CAW

SPECIAL – HOT BOITE: LANTAW SA BUSAY

 

According to Carrie in The Carrie Diaries; Hot Boite means ‘cool restaurant’, and I couldn’t think of anything but Lantaw sa Busay. With lots of good dinner offers; the mountain top location that has a beautiful, beautiful city view; Lantaw sa Busay is the best there is when it comes to having a cozy pigging experience.

READ MORE HERE FROM LANTAW SA BUSAY

SPECIAL – THE JUNCTION: LA VIE PARISIENNE

 

A Parisian delight; La Vie Parisienne is now done with their renovations and now has a splendid, splendid theme. With colorful faux cherry blossom all around the spot; La Vie Parisienne is the best there is to meet with friends and experience an alta sociedad mood.

READ MORE HERE FROM LA VIE PARISIENNE

SPECIAL – FUN PLACE: TRICK ART CEBU

 

With more than 50+ designs; you could have fun in their still paintings that sure to make you feel be a part of.

READ MORE HERE FROM TRICK ART CEBU

…

So that’s the list of the best of 2013. I hope you tried all of these places! Happy New Year!

NOT YOUR ANOTHER KOREAN COFFEE HOUSE | CAFÉ MARU [PHOTOS]

 

Cafe Maru

–          ★★★★

I love coffee houses because of the calm ambiance and the ultimate chill-out experience you’ll have, except for those who are over popular and over populated ones like Starbucks and Café Noriter.

But Café Maru at Gov. M. Cuenco Avenue, Talamban, just across the entrance of Sto. Nino village; is a serene Café, not known much to the public which I liked about and for me their best asset.

Cafe Maru

With offers that ranges from P120.00-P300.00 that doesn’t really differ from other Korean coffee houses, and free charging, either laptop or phone; you will enjoy the serenity in this café.

You can also have fun in putting up post-it notes on the walls, or hang your pictures just like Cafe Noriter’s or Sunday 2PM Cafe’s.

SCHEDULE

Opens at 2:00PM

Closes at 12:00MN

RATINGS

4

Cafe Maru Panorama

 

CAFÉ HOUSE DELIGHT | CAFÉ CAW | CUPCAKE EXPERIENCE [PHOTOS]

 

–          ★★★★½

Korean coffee houses have been a trend nowadays in the Queen City due to its popularity of cute themed setting like Café Noriter that delights customers with delish offers and cozy ambiance.

Maybe it’s the way they offer it in their mainland, Korea, and that’s how we Filipinos wanted to experience that coincides in every angle.

Café Caw branched in two here in Cebu; one at Lahug and one in Banilad; offers a variety of goodies from cappuccino to frap and cakes to cupcakes.

BANILAD BRANCH

Cafe Caw Banilad

Located at Gov. M Cuenco Ave., Banilad, across BRIGHT Academy; the Banilad branch is a small café limited only for small amount of people but still with refreshing and welcoming ambiance good enough for you to chill and have a good time. Decorated with plentiful of cute stuffs; this branch is good for a short stop by chill-out.

Red Velvet at Cafe Caw

LAHUG BRANCH

Cafe Caw in Lahug

At Salinas Dr., Lahug, across J.Y. Square Mall; the Lahug branch is bigger than of the one in Banilad, also having 2 storey; this branch is more cozy and more welcoming. With lots of fancy toys and decors plus cutely painted walls, you can never go wrong in this café.

Cafe Caw in Lahug

Perfect for chill-out and longtime stay; Café Caw at Lahug is one place for you and your friends to catch up with each other or read books or surf the internet as well.

Green Tea Cupcake at Cafe Caw

CONTACT

Facebook Page

RATINGS

Offers – 4.5

Banilad – 4

Lahug – 5

Overall – 4.5

PHOTOS

Cafe Caw in Banilad

Cafe Caw in Banilad

Chocolate Cloud

Cafe Caw

Cafe Caw

Cafe Caw