CEBU-tiful!

May 25-26, 2013

Friday evening, my bag is packed. I am ready for my 3am flight to Cebu City. I have been to Cebu several times but never had the chance to leisurely roam. Dex picked me up at the airport then we met with his officemate, Jay and their Malaysian guest, CK.

It was already 7am when we took-off for Oslob via Ceres bus at Cebu South Terminal. Sleepless, I took advantage of the not so long ride.

Whale Shark Watching Experience

Three hours away from Cebu City is the town of Oslob (pronounced as Oslo). It is home to the gentle giants of the sea - the whale sharks (rhincodon typus).

Outriggers

We reached Brgy. Tan-awan, Oslob, Cebu at around 10am. First in the activity was the orientation/ briefing.  Tourists were advised to stay at least 4 meters away from the whale sharks to avoid unexpected responses and to protect it as well. Each whale shark has tags by its fins that serves as a tracker. We were also asked to rinse any applied sunblock lotion as it may contaminate the water. We were made to understand that the whale sharks pose no significant danger to humans. They are considered as filter-feeding fish. They only eat plankton and small shrimps/ fish.

After paying the appropriate fees (details below), we paddled towards the interaction area. We already caught sight of the whale sharks as we approach. I repeatedly ask our bangkero whether they are harmless and I always get an assurance.

A school of small fish swim beneath the whale sharks

We cannot contain our admiration as we draw nearer. When we reached the interaction area, we wowed loud and jumped to the water as one whale shark approached. Our 30-minute happiness with the wild began.

Thirty (30) meters below us are divers and a variety of fish. The clear and clean water gave us a great sight of the gentle giant's haven at day.

By lunchtime, the whale sharks went back to the deep.

WHICH is WHICH?: Swimming? It's more fun with the butandings! :)
L-R: Dexter, Kinsy, Jay, CK

Unexpected Meeting

The National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) has its regional branch in Cebu City. I went there without notice. Surprisingly, we were on the same place enjoying the same activity on the same day! They shared us their baon for lunch! Thank you, Boss Edmund and staff for the mangoes, lechon and tinolang isda :)

With NCMB-RB VII Staff at Brgy. Tan-awan, Oslob, Cebu

Tumalog Falls

After lunch, we went to Tumalog Falls. It is just a short uphill ride from Brgy. Tan-awan. At the parking area, there are motorbikes offering a ride down to Tumalog Falls for P50. We were told that the falls is about 400 meters away so we decided to just walk.

We walked on a steep concrete road.

Tumalog falls is different from those that I have seen in Camiguin, Pagudpod and Baler. It is like a live wall paper: aesthetic and appealing. Cold waters caress the mossy rocks. The water drops from different points as if filling a basin then spilling to the other.

lower portion of Tumalog Falls. Photo by: Dexter

We soaked ourselves in the cold waters of Tumalog. It was very refreshing!

Boljoon Church
Patrocinio de Maria Church

While doing some research prior to this Cebu trip, I have read about Boljoon Church (in wikipedia).  It was declared in 1999 by the National Museum as a National Cultural Treasure for being the oldest original stone church in Cebu. This enticed me to visit the place.

Boljoon is about 30 minutes away from Oslob. I am a bit frustrated of what I actually saw. I find it far different from what I have read. The church's facade is painted and no one can ever tell that it is indeed the oldest original stone church. I think it could have been better if the structure was enhanced but not painted. Well, I am expecting its structure to be like the ruins of Cagsawa or Paoay Church. Raw. It is a serene place though. It has a wide lawn and is facing Bohol Strait.

Boljoon Church at Sunset. Photo by: Dexter

We were back in Cebu City by 8pm. With tummies rumbling, we invaded Larsian. I feel that it is the place to dine when in Cebu. I enjoyed their puso rice and grilled viands.

I also learned from CK that they have the same in Malaysia.



The following day, Sunday, Dex and I roam around the city. First, we visited the Taoist Temple at Beverly Hills, Lahug, Cebu City. It is located uphill so we had a view of Cebu at sunset. Picture taking by the altar is prohibited so we only had the exteriors. It is colorful and the architecture is beautiful.

There is no admission fee. The Taoist temple is open everyday from 7am-5pm.

Taoist Temple

Taoist Temple

Basilica del Sto. Niño

Outside the Basilica. Photo by: Dexter

We attended the 5:30pm mass at the Basilica. We were surprised by the bulk of people inside the premises of the church. We thought there was an event but we learned that it was just an ordinary Sunday.

In the morning, the priest celebrates the mass inside the church while in the afternoon, it is celebrated outside.

Interior of Basilica del Sto. Niño. Photo by: Dexter

Magellan's Cross. Photo by: Dexter

On the same Sunday night, NCMB RB-VII is playing for the TIPC Blowling Tournament at SM Cebu. We dropped by and stayed for a while.

L-R: Riza, Kinsy, Ms. Edan, Ms. Ellen, Rey

with the staff of NCMB-RB VII during their TIPC Bowling Tournament

Ms. Rose took us to dinner and drove us back to the hotel.

 with Ms. Rose, Earvin and Ivan

The following day is Monday. I flew and reported back to reality!

Experience Cost:
P155/head Cebu City-Oslob
500/head whale shark watching registration fee for Filipinos
      *inclusions: 30min boat rental, goggles for snorkeling, life vest
1000/head whale shark watching registration fee for our Malaysian friend
      *inclusions: 30min boat rental, goggles for snorkeling, life vest
500 rental of underwater camera
120/head round trip multicab to Tumalog Falls
20/head entrance to Tumalog Falls
25/head Oslob-Boljoon
125/head Boljoon-Cebu City

Baler: Surfing 101

May 12, 2013 - Baler ain't complete without riding the waves! 


I got up early. We had breakfast at Bay's Inn. They offer a weekend buffet breakfast at P170/person. What I like in the places we eat is they give us an enticing view of the sea and the surfers.

Dex changed his mind. He volunteered to take pictures of me instead while I surf. I agreed and got even more excited! The thought of having lots of pictures during my first surfing rev up the excitement! Lalalalaaa... My inner self is dancing, getting ready for the i-do-not-know-what-is-going-to-happen! I am not a swimmer and when the waters go over me, I pinch my nose. Oh! I breathe underwater! Swear! Haha!

Excited and scared and ... :D

It is my first time and i do not know how to swim. I don't care! I want the experience! We went to the surf shop and inquired. They charge P350/hour/person. The rate is inclusive of a brief lecture,
trainer and surf board.

Surfing 101 lecture :)

While the boys orient me with the activity, someone changed his mind!

The self-proclaimed Pro  ♥  the forever Beginner 

THE SURF BOARD. It consists of the following: nose (upper), rail (the sides of the board), tail that part buried on the sand), fins (at the bottom of the board near the tail), deck (where surfers stand), bottom (very self explanatory :D). There is also a leash. It is worn at the ankle so that when the surfer drops, the surf board won't go far. It doesn't hurt. You'll barely feel it. :)

SURFING POSITIONS. We lie face down (head by the nose and feet by the tail) balancing the board over the water with hands on the rail.

When the trainer shouts "READY", palms by the chest, against the surf board (as if you're gonna do a push-up) and right foot (or whichever you prefer) steps forward beside the left knee (imagine your legs forming number 4).

Then once pushed into the waves, trainer cheers "Up! Up! Up!" this time, the arms and folded knees push the body up as the left foot steps forward just below the chest, hands off the board, feet apart, bend and balance.

Easy, isn't it? It is! I was just too scared. I was able to stand thrice (in one hour!), one of which is a long ride (until the shore) *wink* ;) I just knelt during the rest of the attempts! Fulfilling on my part and a bit frustrating for my trainer. I promised to do better next time ;)

While I struggle riding the waves, Dex, the man who's scared to surf, is having his long rides. He even requested for an extension! A request that was denied due to lack of time.

A repeat is sure to happen, soon :)

A Day in Baler

May 11, 2013

Friday nights are often spent outside with friends and drinks. Dex and I spent it on the road.

The passengers have started to alight at every corner when we woke up. My blurry vision caught the signage and I knew that we have arrived. From the bus terminal, we rode a tricycle and went around the nearby hotels but to no avail. All were fully-booked! 

Dex was very insistent to bring the tent when we were still packing. It is his intuition that saved and sheltered us. By the shore is Tent City. They offer cottages with papag for P500.00 overnight. To those who opt to pitch their tents, they charge P100.00/head. Very affordable! :) They also have wash rooms and comfort rooms. Excellent for budget travelers!

Our humble haven :)

Breakfast is a few meters away. While walking to Bay-ler Hotel to eat, I had my first sight of Sabang Beach: wide stretch of sand, billowing waves, surfers floating and disappearing like needles (or seahorse?) from afar! WOW!

With stuffed tummies and rushing adrenalines, we rented a tricycle and started our Baler Day Tour! :)

First stop: Museo de Baler

Inside Museo de Baler

Second stop: The vacation home of Pres. Manuel L. Quezon

President Manuel L. Quezon's Presidential car displayed at his residence
photo by: Dexter

Beneath the 600-year old Balete Tree
taken by: Jerwin

After checking on Baler's history and culture, we embraced nature! Upon getting-off from the tricycle, we were welcomed by the local guides: Jerwin and Erwin. We registered and took photos of the huge tree. Dex told me we can get inside. Hesitant, I just smiled and asked whether it is possible and if it is okay. I was surprised by the enthusiasm of Jerwin and Erwin in orienting us with the tree. They showed us the interiors and the other way out. While inside, Jerwin and Erwin asked if we wanted to climb. Scared, I smiled. Then they led us up!

Negotiating through the tangled Balete roots :)taken by: Jerwin

I never knew climbing Balete tree could be that fun! The way up was easy! Grip-step-push then the process went over and over again until we were rewarded with a nest-like branch on top. We sat and chat for a while before we took the split trail down. Dex went down through the roots outside while I patiently and carefully slid myself into the narrow spaces inside. I literally and truly had fun! 

Then it's time to wash the sweat away! We drove to San Luis for almost an hour. What's in San Luis? The Ditumabo Falls! or commonly known as the Mother Falls. It was a rough ride. We had to walk and ride and walk and ride in getting to the entrance. The road from the highway to the jump-off is literally rocky. I got so excited when we reached the entrance. We had to cross a river before we reach the registration area. I rolled-up my jogging pants and quickly dipped into the waters. Oh it was freeeezing cold!!! I felt my muscles contract and I wade through waters slowly.

Half-way to the Mother Falls

There was a 20-minute trek before the grand reward. We passed through rivers and boulders and a few plains. 

Ditumabo Falls (Mother Falls) Approximately 140 meters high

I thought I could dip but the water is colder than the river we first crossed! As an asthmatic, dipping is a major decision. I took photos instead as Dex swam through the freezing water.

It was past 12 noon. We have to go back and continue the tour. However, as we approach the registration area, it started to rain. Unfortunately for Manong Driver, he left his trike roof at home and unfortunately also for us, our backs were only protected by a very thin jersey! Enough protection for the sun but NOT for the heavy rain. Sabi nga ni Manong driver when I asked him kung pano sya't wala syang bubong eh: "Damay damay na yan"  That was it. We all got wet!

The rain got really bad. We advised the driver to park by a waiting shed. Then there was lightning and thunder and rumbling stomachs.

Our wet ride!

It was already 2 o'clock when the rain stopped. We headed back to tent city to rinse change clothes. Manong driver went home to change too. We met at Bay-ler for lunch at 3PM and waited until the heavens cleared.

We went first to Ermita Hill. It is where the people of Baler ran to during the tsunami in 1735.

Ermita Hill

Diguisit Falls

Dusk is dramatic at Lukso-lukso Islets. It has a camping site, cottages and scattered  rocks that made the place picturesque!  

Hut on the rocks!

This quaint sight concluded our day tour in Baler. Tired and satisfied, we relaxed ourselves inside the tricycle as we negotiate the long road back to Tent City.

I am sure you want to know the expenses :)

455/head/way Cubao-Baler (Genesis Bus)

*Joy bus leaves at 12MN. 700/head/way on a reservation basis

100 trike (terminal-tent city, we hopped from hotel to hotel that's why we gave premium)

500 overnight cottage at tent city (tent charge, waived)

1000 trike day tour (regular rate is P800. we gave additional amount for the extra rough day due to heavy rain)

There are no entrance fee in all destinations. Only donations :)

Manila And The Tummies That Had So Much FUN

May 4-5, 2013. Supposedly, our parents' anniversary date.

Family out of town is in my 28 Things at 28 list! Papa, however, was not able to make it for some official reasons. So, it's an advance mother's day date!

Cebu pacific might have spoiled our itinerary but I made sure the girls won't miss the fun! :) From the Domestic Airport, we headed straight to Wensha Spa-Macapagal for some pampering. We had buffet merrienda, jacuzzi, sauna, whole body massage and buffet dinner!

I was not satisfied with the massage though. I would still recommend Wensha-Timog.

At the dining area. :) Photo by: Rose

We got up early the following day and attended the 7:00am mass at Malate Church. Then we loitered around baywalk, took advantage of the stop light and snapped a few shots in the middle of the street! A fun run has just ended so the other lane was still closed.

Traffic police wannabes!

What else should be done on an early Sunday morning? Breakfast of course! We had our buffet breakfast at Makan-Makan - H20.

Breads for breaky! :)

We are supposed to see the Jellies but Manila Ocean Park does not sell tickets per attraction. They came up with a package inclusive of activities from morning til evening. Of course that is not favorable to us who have already seen the other attractions before. So we headed back to the hotel instead and prepared ourselves for our afternoon tour!

Still filled by the breakfast earlier, we grabbed a pizza and spaghetti for (late) lunch :)

It was a hot afternoon. We explored Fort Santiago in lieu of a Corregidor historical tour.

The kalesa that brought us to the gate of Fort Santiago! ...from Aduana St. Haha! Long ride, eh?! :))

Tickets for four!

Jose Rizal's Footprint on his way to Luneta for his execution

Jose Rizal's "Mi Ultimo Adios" in braille

My Guests! ♥

Wan is Legazpi bound by 7:00pm. We cooled down in one of the best restaurants that offer delectable halo-halo and home fries! - Ranzon's.

I am super looking forward to more family trips! Such a happy thing! ♥