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Vigan City is among the 'New 7 Wonders' finalists

October 22, 2013, 9:23 pm
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Our very own Vigan City has been shortlisted as one of the 28 finalists in the campaign for the 'New 7 Wonders Cities' of the world.

Vigan, a vibrant city located in northern Philippines, is a prime tourist destination and home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Heritage Village. A gem of Ilocos Sur, Vigan showcases the rich Spanish heritage through its many well-preserved architectures and ancestral homes. It's also home to old museums, tasty local dishes, and a heritage church. A true world- class heritage city, indeed.




Bernard Weber, founder-president of New7Wonders, announced yesterday the official list of finalists. He said “This outstanding shortlist of 28 cities mirrors the diversity of urban society, especially when, for the first time in history, more than half of our planet’s population lives in cities. Going forward, the New7Wonders Cities campaign will encourage debate about how cities should respond to the challenges of the present and the future. By voting in this worldwide campaign, people everywhere can decide the 7 cities that best represent the achievements and aspirations of our global urban civilization.”

The finalists will have to go through three elimination phases through online voting which will end on December 7, 2014. 




                                  
Video courtesy: TVigan Ka-ivigan


Vote for Vigan here ---> www.world.new7wonders.com


The 28 finalistsare (in alphabetical order):

Athens, Greece
Bangkok, Thailand
Barcelona, Spain
Beirut, Lebanon
Casablanca, Morocco
Chicago, USA
Doha, Qatar
Durban, South Africa
Havana, Cuba
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Istanbul, Turkey
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kyoto, Japan
La Paz, Bolivia
London, United Kingdom
Mendoza, Argentina
Mexico City, Mexico
Mumbai, India
Perth, Australia
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Prague, Czech Republic
Quito, Ecuador
Reykjavik, Iceland
St. Petersburg, Russia
Seoul, South Korea
Shenzhen, China
Vancouver, Canada
Vigan, Philippines
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Ilocos Sur Heritage Tour: Vigan and Beyond

October 29, 2013, 8:16 pm
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A Mang Inasal in Calle Crisologo doesn't seem to fit right in. That was my first impression as I was strolling along this famous cobblestone street in Vigan during my visit last January. Don't get me wrong, I devour Mang Inasal's tasty chicken often too, but I would have wanted this modern fast food chain to have stepped back a bit from this site, or at least should have followed the existing old and vintage architectural theme rather than taking a pervasive modern look. In its stead, I would have wanted a local shop selling burnay jars or other native products in that spot. 

A UNESCO Heritage Site, Calle Crisologo is among my favorite spots in the country, but I'm a bit concerned seeing how this old-charm city seemed to have caught up with the modern time. 

The thing I have with visiting Vigan is that each time we meet, something new is added and something old is lost. As I look at the old photos I took back when I first visited it in high school, I can see how this historic city have changed -- the commercial establishments around and the number of visitors strolling by obviously increased. 

While I understand that nothing stands still and that change and development is inevitable, I feel that some of our cultural heritages are at risk of a slow demise, and Vigan, a so-called "living museum," should not succumb to this kind of fate. The key lies in the active pursuit to preservation and conservation. 



Vigan is one of the cities that inherited a beautiful heritage by default. In the 18th and 19th centuries,  Vigan or Ciudad Fernandina de Vigan is said to be the third most important city after Manila and Cebu. The sights we see there today -- the museums, cathedrals, plazas, and the food that are depicting Hispanic influences --  are the treasures left of the bygone days of Spanish colonial power in the north.

Although Vigan changed through time, I still feel that it's one of the places in the country that has retained much of its history and a place definitely worth visiting! I've noted here some of the places I recommend while in Vigan and other parts of Ilocos Sur.  

Calle Crisologo or Vigan Heritage Village draws in a steady stream of tourists each year because of the impressive row of grand houses. A magical night walk underneath the yellow lights lining this street could be a perfect romantic must-do especially for lovers, but for those avoiding the tourist crowd and wanting to get a piece of this significant street unobstructed, I'd definitely recommend waking up to a dream-like early morning walk there. :)


A popular must-do in Vigan is to ride a calesa. For a change, why not try driving it instead of riding on it?

I had the chance to ride calesa, a horse-drawn vehicle, for P150. Aside from Calle Crisologo, other stops of the calesa ride include Plaza Salcedo or the town plaza; St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral; The Arzopispado; Saint Paul’s College; the Provincial Capitol Building; Burgos Museum and Residence; Plaza Burgos and some significant grand houses in Vigan. 


St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral

After quenching your thirst for history, dig in on some popular Vigan foods at Plaza Burgos,  a must-try is the Vigan empanada and okoy; have a hearty and cozy dinner at Cafe Leona and feast on classic Ilocano dishes like bagnet, longganisa and pakbet. 


Dine in at Cafe Leona


About 10 minutes away from the city proper of Vigan, another treasure worth-visiting is the historic Bantay Belfry. Built in 1591, it's unlike many other bell towers in the country which are attached to the church building. Bantay Belfry stands on a hill a few meters away from Saint Augustine Church because it is said to have served as a watch tower alerting the town people of the invading forces. 


Bantay Belfry and St. Augustine Church

It was almost noontime when I arrived at Santa Maria Church and I felt lucky to have been allowed to enter and see the interior of this important national landmark and UNESCO Heritage Site (one of the four baroque churches in the country). I was alone inside the church, and the chirping birds offered some sort of company! :)

Situated atop a hill, overlooking the town of Santa Maria, I was easily impressed by the beautiful facade, the massive buttresses, and huge bell tower of this red-bricked church. The interior, especially the altar and retablo have evidently undergone renovations, but I have the overall excited feeling all throughout my stay knowing that this church have withstood the tests of earthquakes and storms.


Santa Maria Church


Without a doubt, I'm inlove with Ilocos Sur! It's one of the places that I'll never get tired of visiting again and again. I just hope that the government will be able to safeguard the many heritage sites it offers. And with the inclusion of Vigan as a finalist to the New 7 Wonders Cities of the world, I hope that there will also be an increased awareness to preserve the many historical treasures of the city. This is for the benefit of my future children, and my children's future children. 
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#LUVisayas: How to help the victims of Typhoon Yolanda

November 11, 2013, 6:03 pm
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I'll keep this short. Please read: URGENT! 

Our kababayans in many parts of Visayas are in desperate need of our help, and in response to this grave extraordinary situation, my friends from BookSail and I are collecting donations of  food and supplies. 

Since children and women are the most vulnerable in situations like this, we would like to prioritize their needs. 


Children's special needs
clothes
 diapers
biscuits (not too sweet)
vitamin C (generics also accepted)

Women's special needs 
clothes
napkin
disposable panties
soap
vitamin C

Food: 
Rice
canned goods
noodles
bottles water

Supplies:
clothes
blanket
towels

Hygiene kits:
shampoo
soap
toothpaste 
toothbrush

For cash donations, please forward the money to Philippine Red Cross. Once deposited, please let me know so I can document and acknowledge your donation here in my blog. Thanks!


A boy survived the wrath of Yolanda in Tacloban, Leyte. Photo credit: www.ibtimes.co.uk


How to help:

Please contact us so we can arrange meet ups to collect your donations:

Che Gurrobat (Pasig) 0917-745-4538
Eph Aguilar (Quezon City) 0929-785-9633
Jha Bobis (Makati/Muntinlupa) 0919-982-7908


All donations that will be gathered from this relief effort will be forwarded on Sunday, November 17, to GMA Kapuso Foundation for distribution to the affected areas. 

How to Support:

Follow our Facebook page #LUVisayas, and your post UNSELFISH SELFIE with the sign #LUVisayaswhich will be our statement of love and support for everyone affected by this massive devastation. 


They need us now, not tomorrow, now. Please help!



Thank you very much,

Che Gurrobat
blogger l www.backpackingpilipinas.com


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UPDATES: 

Donations thru #LUVisayas as of today, November 15, 2013.

2 bags of used clothes 
1 box of groceries
1 box of groceries 
1 big package of clothes 
2 medium-sized boxes of mineral water 
1 big box of canned goods 
2 boxes of zesto packs 
cash donation sent to Philippine RED CROSS 
15 boxes mineral water (600 pcs)
20 boxes Zesto (200pcs)
10 packs Nissin Wafer (100pcs)
1 shopping bag of toiletries
4 bags of used clothes, blanket and towels. 
Grocery items and medicines (cupcakes, noodles, diapers, vitamins, paracetamol)
1 box of ready to eat canned food - assorted 
1 box of mineral water
1 box of Ligo Sardines (100pcs)
4 sacks of mineral water (200pcs)
5 sacks and 5 bags of used clothes, jacket, towel and blankets. 

P4,000 cash 
P2,000 cash thru LBC
P3,000 cash
USD 374.72 (P16,349.00) *Deposited to the Philippine RED CROSS*
another cash donation sent to Philippine RED CROSS 

Donors: 

Ito Tsuneo with family, friends, and office mates
Marissa Pajudpod with Glorene Lopez-De Leon and Kuya Pare Eric, Eds Miranda and family; Renato Pajudpod and family; family of Elaine Suzie and Francis Frederick and Jigs Warde and housemates! Orly, LA, Celso, Diony and Kenneth; Monica Halcon - Coast Guard Reserve members and friends from Teleperformance 
Noel and Aileen (SITEL)
Kaye Estanislao Jalos
Mary Joy Balbin 
Rica Bells, Kyla Japos and friends (TELEPERFORMANCE)
Jennylee Villarosa
Charm and Vicky (SITEL)
Anonymous
France Sunglao and El Ey Sunglao
Mary Joy Balbin

Half of the donations are now delivered to GMA Kapuso Foundation for repacking and distribution. 


Thanks to Angel Pascual for transporting the relief goods to GMA


We appreciate everyone who helped us. To the donors who responded immediately to this relief drive, thank you so much.

There's still much to be done, many people in the disaster zone still waiting for help. Please help in anyway you can. This relief drive continues... Thank you.


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A lot to be grateful for

November 27, 2013, 7:34 pm
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A "Religion of Gratitude," as what my friend calls it, is what we probably need nowadays in this totally imperfect world. Our mantra would bear no more than two powerful words recited in the most precise and passionate patterns... thank you, thank you, thank you. And if words are not enough, allow yourself to send a warm and sincere smile to whoever needs it.

Yes, despite of life unfolding in some ways that we sometimes find less amusing, we can still have more and more reasons to be thankful for. And I am grateful, too. For a lot of reasons.

Sending out a big thank you from the top of Bud Bongao in Tawi Tawi!

Just recently, I have completed what I consider a big milestone in my life, that of having seen 80 of the 81 provinces of the Philippines before I turn 30 years old. It is a three-year challenge that I've pursued and that has ended last weekend, November 23. A month before my 30th birthday, I set foot on to my 80th province, in the southernmost province of the country, Tawi Tawi. It was one of the most thrilling and fulfilling adventures I had, which I'll blog the full details very soon.

I know I wouldn't have accomplished this goal if not for the many people who had been with me throughout this crazy journey.

To my parents, who despite not being totally permissive of my notorious escapes, still supports me and constantly texts me "ingat ka " and to my sisters and brother who have been my default cheerers and "supporters"... thank you!

To old friends and the new ones I've made while on the road, who had continuously inspired me to search for new and challenging paths... thank you!

To Anchi, who have been my sole partner in exploring more than 30 beautiful destinations around the country, for the massive love, support and understanding, beyond words... thank you.

To the hardworking tour guides, boatmen, bus/cab/jeepney drivers, souvenir vendors, and the many people I met while traveling... and to the kind universe... thank you. To God... for the blessed opportunity you had given to be able to experience the many wonders of our country... thank you.

For everything, to everyone, I am grateful. Always.



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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): Rolling Hills, Batanes

November 28, 2013, 11:10 pm
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Thirty days before my 30th birthday, I'm going to let myself down the memory lane and recount my top 30 favorite spots around our country. I'm sharing photos of places I've visited while I was completing my 80 Before 30 challenge. These are places that still brings me waves of bliss and joy; sights that shocked and awed me; scenes that are so achingly beautiful that made me feel extremely fortunate to have been in that specific spot at that specific moment; and places that brings nostalgic memories, and the burning desire to revisit it again and again.  

This is my 30Before30 Project.

The first of this 30-day series will be from one of my favorite provinces in the country -- Batanes, an amazing province located in the northernmost part of the Philippines. There's quite a lot to love about Batanes, but the one that stood out for me was the experience I had when I saw the gentle rolling hills that this province is famous for. It was a dreamy sight on a beautiful April afternoon, something that stayed with me for a long time. One crazy thing I did while I was there was...hmmm... well... roll down the hill. Yes, literally!haha :)

Check out more of my Batanes stories here.





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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): Kayangan Lake, Coron, Palawan

November 30, 2013, 2:35 am
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Known for its lovely limestone cliffs, clear and tranquil lake waters, pristine white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling spots, green mountains, and great seafood, enough said... Coron, Palawan is a must-visit destination.

But among the many wonderful spots I have visited in Coron, Kayangan Lake stands out for me. I fell enchantingly inlove to this lake, also dubbed as the "cleanest lake in the country," all for the peace and quiet I found in that perfect spot under the sky.

To get there, we had to take a motorized boat from Coron proper going to the jump-off point before we hiked enroute to the lake.  We passed by the stunning view from the mountain (near a cave),  which is also one of the most photographed spots in Palawan. From that point, we took a downhill path before finally seeing the beautiful and hidden Kayangan Lake. The difficulty going to the area will wane as soon as you plunge into the refreshing blue waters of the lake.

When in Coron, make sure to include Kayangan Lake in your itinerary! To know more about Coron, visit my post here. :)

*30Before30: 30 days before my 30th birthday, a recap of my favorite spots in the Philippines*





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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 3.Siquijor Island

December 1, 2013, 7:24 am
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I was thinking of a particular spot in Siquijor that stood out for me, and I couldn't think of any. It's just that I simply love this tiny island province.

Also known as the Island of Fire, Siquijor is often associated with mystical traditions like "barang" and love potions. It is not usually in the tourist trail because of its "reputation." But after spending a beautiful weekend there last year, I must say that Siquijor was love at first sight... literally! I knew the moment I stepped into the port and gazed into the view of the beach... then and there, I fell in love. I've seen a lot of ports around the country, but nothing compares to the panoramic view of Siquijor Port. Just adjacent to it is a wide stretch of white and fine sand beach with clear blue water which is a perfect visual treat to visitors coming in to the island.

I also loved the beaches at San Juan, the waterfalls, the churches, the people and of course the sunsets!!!  My Siquijor adventure is one for the books... enough said... it is my absolute favorite!

Visit my stories about Siquijor here.





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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 4.Mt. Pinatubo Crater Lake

December 2, 2013, 7:20 am
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Twenty two years after the climactic eruption that shocked the world, it is still unimaginable and surreal to see a magnificent view right where the disaster happened -- the now famous turquoise-colored crater lake of  Mt. Pinatubo.

I visited it back in 2009 and found the trip "magical." I still recall that clear February morning, my friends and I jumped to a rugged 4x4 ride before we took the "relatively easy" trail leading to the crater. It was a day well-spent as we enjoyed the beauty around while in the company of great friends. To cap our delightful experience, we stopped by to say hello to an Aeta community on our way back to the base camp.  

I was wowed by the sight and the experience that I promised myself to bring more people to see this wonderful spot. In 2011, along with my sister and two friends, I revisited Mt. Pinatubo. And although the weather was not on our side that day, my legs were wobbly after hours and hours of trek, and some apparent changes like the infrastructures (the newly built concrete viewing deck and recreational buildings were not there when I first visited the area) that now stands near the lake, I still found the trip as enjoyable as the first time Pinatubo and I met.  

Hopefully the future visitors will take care of the lake and avoid littering within its premises. For itinerary going to Mt. Pinatubo, pls check my blog here. :)




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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 5.APO Reef Natural Park

December 2, 2013, 10:38 pm
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A 45 ft scuba dive (my first ^_^), swimming with a shark (oh yeah!), green sea turtles (eeeee!! the best!) , barracuda (yeahaha!) and diverse bright-colored fish and corals in God's beautiful underwater garden (rrawwwr!), an overnight "accommodation" in a hammock, great company of friends (kaladkarins!!!) letting off colorful sky lanterns on a clear starry night, splendid sunset atop a lighthouse, and waking up to a magnificent sunrise with the sound of the waves humming melodies into my ears -- these memories spark happy thoughts whenever I think of APO Reef.  Considered as the largest atoll like reef in the Philippines and nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, APO Reef Natural Park (Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro) deserves to be included in your list of top places to visit in the country. 

For more details about my super weekend in Apo Reef, please check out my stories here. 






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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 6.Calaguas Island

December 3, 2013, 11:29 pm
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This is Calaguas Island for me: it has the fine sand of Panglao Island, the gorgeous sunset of Boracay Island, the remoteness of Caramoan and Palaui Island, the rawness of Palumbanes Island, the vast shoreline of Pagudpud, the  blue waters of White Island in Camiguin and the idyllic setting of Nagsasa Cove. Enough said, Calaguas is a beauty which rightfully deserves all the accolades it's been getting lately. A must-visit destination for everyone. 

Calaguas is not only a great beach for camping and swimming, close to it is a site for bird watching and hiking, a lure for adventurers. If you're up for a good break from your mobile phone, Facebook (yes, that too) and TV, and if you're gunning for a relaxing weekend by the beach (and commune with nature), head to this happy island in Camarines Norte. You'll in for a treat! Reminder though, be prepared for a primitive tent accommodation. :)

With the growing flux of tourists visiting the island, I fervently hope that Calaguas will keep its slow pace sans the pervasive clout and threat of excessive commercialism. 

Here's my blog about my amazing weekend in Calaguas. :)





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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 7.Batad Rice Terraces

December 4, 2013, 11:27 pm
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Batad Rice Terraces are part of the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These 2,000 year-old impressive terraces carved into the mountains of Ifugao are priceless contributions of our ancestors to the world.  Each year, it welcomes local and foreign travelers who are eager to get a piece of the quiet mountain life. 

Although there are threats posed by nature (landslides) and modernity (structures and houses built near the terraces and the new generation choosing to find greener pastures in the lowland instead of cultivating the rice fields), Batad, as I saw it, still stands proud of its incredible heritage. It was truly a humbling experience to be in the same spot where our ancestors once stood to carve this masterful and cultural treasure. 

It's not everyday that I get to sleep in an authentic Ifugao hut and wake up to the awesome view of dramatic contoured mountains and verdant rice terraces. The picture-perfect background, mist-covered rice fields basking in the morning sunlight, and the sight of the local people going about their early routines made the waking up part very special. It was a tough call for me to get there since we had to hike for hours under the biting midday sun, but the experience was every bit rewarding. Batad roads are less traveled, but definitely worth-taking.  

Taking into consideration the preserved culture and traditions, breathtaking sites, and the unforgettable trek on the rice paddies, Batad Rice Terraces rank high among my favorite spots in the Philippines.

Follow my Batad stories here.








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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 8.Mayon Volcano

December 5, 2013, 10:37 pm
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Whenever I think about it now, I feel privileged to have once lived in place close to a world wonder -- the majestic Mayon Volcano. I had the best vantage point back then to see Mayon right outside my window every single day! Very often, she'd flaunt her naked beauty with a flair of smoke billowing from her crater. It's her visual treat to her regular audience -- the people of Albay and some frequent travelers to the province. But sometimes, she hides in the comfort of the clouds tightly hugging her symmetrical conical shape. For unlucky tourists, it's an automatic bad Mayon day. 

Make no mistake despite her irresistible charm, Mayon is considered one of the most active volcanoes in the country. Every now and then, she'd show her might which could be extremely dangerous, but some "tourists" still take it as yet another magical display of power of this famous natural landmark in Bicol. 

Mayon is one of those destinations many get to see in books or online, but nothing beats the joy of actually seeing her for the very first time from the misty window of a speeding bus or while aboard a plane that hovers close to it. She's a real Magayon! 

Visit Mayon whenever you can. For more photos and stories about Mayon, check out my posts here.



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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 9.Lake Sebu

December 6, 2013, 7:07 pm
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Tucked in the mountains of South Cotabato, the town of  Lake Sebu has all that it takes to be called the ultimate travel destination -- cold breeze, fresh foods, majestic waterfalls, glassy lake water, warm people, and well-preserved traditions . It is a one-stop place for those in search for a relaxing, cultural, and an adventure-filled travel.

I immensely enjoyed my stay and profoundly learned to appreciate the quiet and laid-back life of the people there. The trip was highlighted by our lunch overlooking the placid lake, meeting Lang Dulay (a National Living Treasure and dreamweaver of T'boli's famous cloth T'nalak), and the thrilling zip line ride to the Seven Waterfalls (saved us an arduous trek without missing the breathtaking view).

About two hours away from General Santos City, Lake Sebu is a destination worth-visiting. You may brush off your fears regarding security issues as this is one of the most peaceful places in Mindanao that I've been to. The local people are friendly and accustomed to visitors, thus going around is not a problem.

Visit my posts about Lake Sebu here.



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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 10.Palaui Island

December 7, 2013, 6:09 pm
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CNN's 10th on its list of World 100 Best Beaches is also my personal 10th favorite spot in the Philippines, the sensational Palaui Island.

Nothing quite matches up to the solo adventure I had to this tiny island located in the northernmost part of Cagayan Valley. I had to brave a difficult terrain (cross three hills, pass by a long beach,  thick forest, streams, a mangrove park and a rice field) so I could get to Faro de Cabo Engano or Cape Engano Lighthouse, a centuries-old lighthouse standing atop a hill covered with verdant grass. A spectacular sight awaited me to my final destination which is worth the pain of actually getting there. 

Ok, so don't think that this place is that remote and unreachable. There are boats that directly docks to the beach near the lighthouse, saving you a good 5-hour painful hike. But here's the thing, the hike isn't bad at all! The terrain is full of interesting local flora and fauna you'd actually enjoy! It is also declared a National Marine Reserve and home to a vast variety of fishes and undisturbed corals, a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming. 

There are no commercial establishments (just one or two sari-sari stores, as far as I can remember) in the entire island so be prepared for a rural island life. But, I'm telling you, more than the wonderful site, one of the things that stands out to my Palaui adventure was the genuine kindness of the people I met there. 

To get there and other stories about Palaui Island, please check my blog here.
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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 11. Enchanted River

December 9, 2013, 7:29 am
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Another reason to visit Mindanao is this river that looks a lot like a sea in the middle of a forest. Hinatuan Enchanted River has the stunning blue hues and clear water enough to gaze fishes even from above the water.

After an agonizing (and depressing) travel along the bumpy roads of Surigao del Sur (the logging in this province is of large scale leaving a vast area denuded), seeing this hidden treasure at the end was definitely a treat.  The place was packed with tourists when I went there, but the river hasn't lost its charm on me.  I was awed by the sight of it, just the way I've imagined before actually getting there.

I hope that cleanliness is maintained  in the area despite the heavy influx of tourists recently eager to get a share of the enchanted river experience.

For more details. here's my blog about Enchanted River.




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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 12. UP Diliman Campus

December 10, 2013, 8:37 am
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University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD), the main campus of the country's premier university, is definitely my most favorite spot within Manila. Not only it is called the cradle to many of the country's great minds and thinkers, it is also home to many cultural icons like the Oblation and the ikot jeepneys. 

Called a "microcosm of the Philippines" because of the many things going on around there, UP is not just your regular university campus. I personally visit it for a myriad of reasons: to eat (and have coffee), to attend mass, to meet friends, to walk (or jog or bike), and to sit still (and breath). And a true Diliman experience for me is never without spending a good deal of time people-watching at the Sunken Garden, digging on Mang Larry's famous isaw, and a hearty tapsilog meal at Rodic's. 

Especially during sunsets, the green canopy of the acacia trees providing shades to the joggers and students along the Academic Oval is quite a beautiful sight. It is like a refuge, a step away from the hustle and bustle of the city crowd that surrounds it.  

Visit UP Diliman whenever you can, and just take time to commune with trees and nature (without leaving the city). 

At UP Diliman during my interview with GMA7's 24 Oras. Check the story here.

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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 13. Biri Island

December 11, 2013, 6:43 am
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Biri Island was once the best-kept secret of Northern Samar, a place out of the tourist trail because of its remote location. But apparently now, it is fast becoming the face of tourism in this province and is attracting many local and foreign visitors.

Along with my adventurous friends, we road-tripped Eastern Visayas last year and had Biri Island included in our itinerary. From Tacloban City, we stopped at Catbalogan City, passed by Calbayog City, and slept overnight in Catarman. The following day, we took a long drive to the small town of Lavazares which is the jump-off point to Biri, and after a rough banca ride, we reached our final destination.

The challenge of getting there paid off when I saw the magnificent Magasang Rock Formations. I was left in awe with these incredible gift from nature, many thanks to the ferocious waves of the Pacific Ocean. I can only imagine how many million years it took to be formed to how we see it today!

If you want to deviate from the usual tourist destinations and opt for more off-the-beaten paths, Biri Island in Northern Samar is definitely a perfect choice. Just make sure to bring comfortable footwear and sunnies, and be there in time for the sunset or sunrise for postcard-perfect photos!

My full story about Biri Island here.


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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 14. Catanduanes

December 13, 2013, 6:37 am
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There's a lot to love about Catanduanes -- time grinds slow, friends are everywhere, Sundays are about family and churches, mornings are crisp and cold, and beaches are within close radius. Growing up in this island was about things that matter most and make me look forward to going back again and again and again - like family, friends and nature. 

Our province has not been in the radar of many seasoned travelers I know, which I find both fortunate and unfortunate. Fortunate because many of our beaches remain unspoiled and a strong sense of provincial life is retained. But unfortunately because I see a lot of potential for it to be the next BIG adventure destination. 

So what's in Catanduanes, really? Well, for one we have one of the country's best surfing spots, the majestic Puraran (the mighty swell!!); we have  pretty beaches with pretty sunsets and sunrises; we have old and historic churches, we have beautiful cascades; we have rugged and contoured mountains (if you're up for adventure climbs); and yes, of course, the people, the warm and gentle Catandunganons. 

See it for yourself. Visit Catanduanes! :)

Check my posts about Catanduanes here. 




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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 15. Boracay Island

December 18, 2013, 6:07 am
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Named as one of the best island getaways in the world, Boracay Island is arguably the tourism capital of the Philippines. It draws in a year-round flux of visitors from around the world -- tourists out to bask in the glorious sun and sand of this famous island. 

What to look forward to in Boracay? Don't miss the spectacular sunset, gastronomic adventures (best food trip), morning walks and people-watching along the beach, and well, of course, swimming. 

Despite the dangers of massive developments, Boracay is still one of my personal favorites (I visited it six times and still hopes to go back). I really believe that Boracay deserves all the accolades and recognition it's been getting. I only hope that the local government will have more authority to contain over-development so as to stop the gradual demise of our own beautiful paradise Boracay. NOTE: tIf you can, take back home your trash next time you visit Boracay. 

More of my Boracay Island stories here. 


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30Before30 (Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines): 16. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

December 18, 2013, 9:53 pm
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As our boat was wading through the dark and chilly Underground River, I remember the cranky bat sounds and the hilarious jokes of our tour guide, Kuya Roger. He kept us entertained with his snappy comments about the major formations of stalactites and stalagmites inside the chambers of this world wonder. It was a quick tour, but definitely a fun and wonderful experience for me. 

Besides visiting the Underground River, some of the things I recommend doing in Puerto Princesa City are:  foodtrip (Badjao Seafront, Ka Lui, Bilao at Palayok, try  the local dish tamilok); city tour -  Butterfly Garden, Crocodile Farm, Mitra’s Ranch, Baker’s Hill, Tiange, Tiange (buy goodies like cashew nuts and some souvenirs), Baywalk, Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Plaza Cuartel; Ugong Rock adventure; and Honda Bay Tour. 

More stories about my Puerto Princesa adventures here.



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