Villa Escudero

Villa Escudero, a coconut plantation village in San Pablo City, was developed by its owners into a tourist destination complete with swimming pools, picnic area, fishing grounds, and modern amenities. Special packages can be arranged to include overnight stay with food and accommodation.

The village offers a glimpse of plantation living. The whole area is surrounded by coconut trees and flowering plants. The estate also houses a museum whose collection ranges from fabulous antiquities to kitsch. Bamboo cottages grid a river that flows to a dam where picnickers gather around the tables set up on the water.

How to get to Villa Escudero?
1. Rent a van or car through Villa Escudero.
Villa Escudero does not own the car or van but will connect you with rental company. The rates are as follows:

day rate for car rental, with driver, good for 4 passengers: P3,500
day rate for van rental, with driver, good for 11 passengers: P4,700

The payment for the rental can be made at the end of the trip.

My tip: If you're renting a car or van, and the rates are the same with other companies, I suggest you rent the car or van thru Villa Escudero instead because:

You won't have to worry about giving directions. The driver will surely know the directions to Villa Escudero.

You are sure of the reliability of the rental company because it comes with the seal of approval of Villa Escudero.

2. Take the public bus to Villa Escudero
Go to Jac Liner bus terminal and take the bus going to Lucena, Quezon. Travel time is 2 1/2 hours. These are the 2 terminals with bus going to Lucena:

LRT - BUENDIA STATION
2052 Donada Street corner
Buendia Street, Pasay City
Metro Manila, Philippines
Tel. No: 4042073
Current bus schedule: 1st trip is 5am, last trip is at 10pm, every 30 minutes.

KAMIAS STATION
2 Mapagmahal Street
Baranggay Pinyahan, Kamias
Quezon City, Philippines
Tel. No.: 9276139
Current bus schedule: 1st trip is 2am, last trip is at 9pm, every 20 minutes.

FARE: P178.00, aircon bus from Kamias or Buendia to Lucena

Make sure to tell the driver or the conductor that you are going to Villa Escudero so they can stop right after the Quezon Arch and drop you off there. The gate of Villa Escudero is just after the Arch and at the left side of the Arch.

From the point where the bus drops you off, you cross the road to the other side to walk to the entrance. It's a very long walk. It's better to take a tricycle if you see one and ride it to the entrance of Villa Escudero.

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Pagsanjan Falls

A popular tourist destination, Pagsanjan Rapids and Falls is a series of 14 rapids punctuated by mini-waterfalls on the way to the main falls. Pagsanjan is a small Laguna town which served as the setting for Fracis Ford Coppola's film "Apocalypse Now."

The terrain towards the main falls offers a lot of exitement. As one negotiates the waterway, the trips becomes wilder, with the river flanked by towering cliffs lush with vegetation. Waters from the Cavinti and Luisiana dams cascade down Pagsanjan Falls and into a segregated part of the river which is about 150 feet deep. Here, one can rent a raft and enjoy riding under the falls.

How to get to Pagsanjan Falls:
How to Commute to Pagsanjan Falls: Board a HM Transport bus, with terminal on EDSA, Cubao near Victory Liner, going to Sta. Cruz/Calamba (fare: P148.50) or Green Star Express with terminal on Taft Avenue near corner Gil Puyat (Buendia) and LRT Gil Puyat station (fare: P140.20)
then drop off at the Jam terminal in Pagsanjan. Board a jeepney bound for Pagsanjan, Lumban, Paete or Siniloan then alight at your destination resort or inn (or ride a tricycle).

Driving Directions to Pagsanjan from Makati: from SLEX take Calamba exit then head straight to Calamba. turn right at Calamba junction and follow this road and highway until you reach Pagsanjan (after Los Banos, Bay, Victoria, Pila, Sta Cruz towns). There's parking inside the Pagsanjan patio or inside your resort/inn of choice.

Directions by car from Quezon City, it's faster to take the Rizal route by going to Marcos Highway, turn right at the junction Masinag Wet and Dry Market, on reaching Antipolo intersection turn left going to Baras (straight ahead leads to Antipolo Church while a right turn leads to Hinulugang Taktak) where you'll pass by Teresa, Morong, Baras, Tanay, and Pililla towns of Rizal province before reaching Laguna towns of Mabitac, Siniloan, Pangil, Pakil, Paete, Kalayaan, Lumban then finally Pagsanjan. Follow only the highway in getting there where you'll pass the zigzag road of Manila East Road with great views of the shimmering Laguna de Bay.

From Lucena and Lucban, Quezon: there are jeepneys plying the route Lucena to Sta. Cruz that pass by Pagsanjan, Cavinti and Luisina. Jumbo jeeps that go to Lucban, Quezon terminal at Pagsanjan town plaza.

Commuting from Cavite: board the Pagsanjan or Sta. Cruz vans at Pala-pala terminal in Dasmarinas, Cavite (near Robinsons Dasmarinas and SM). Board a jeep for Pagsanjan (or Lumban, Paete, Siniloan) or a tricycle to your destination resort.

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Intramuros

Among the popular attractions in Metro Manila are Intramuros, Rizal Park, Binondo, Malacañang, Malate, the CCP Complex, Nayong Pilipino, Ayala Avenue, the Fort, Ortigas Center, Quezon Memorial Circle, and countless bars and restaurants scattered around the metropolis.

Manila Metropolitan Cathedral or the Cathedral

Traces of the Spanish influence still loom in Intramuros. A tour of this landmark will provide the visitors a deeper understanding of Manila's rich heritage. Intramuros protects within its walls a number of national treasures like the Fort Santiago (once a prison for revolutionary Filipinos, now a peaceful park-cum-museum), San Agustin Church (the oldest structure in the country with its Baroque interiors and trompe l'oeil murals), Manila Cathedral (a magnificent architectural feat with its intricate stone carvings, stained glass mosaics, and rosette windows), Casa Manila (a former colonial house and now a museum of national relics), and San Juan de Letran school.

Intramuros has been restored for the tourists. Today, it houses a museum, art galleries, an open-air theatre, fine restaurants, craft shops and souvenir stalls. It also keeps a park lush with tropical flora and homing pigeons. The park, Puerto Real, is the venue of Saturday musical performances during dry months.


Outside the Walled City
Located outside the walled city of Intramuros are other sites and structures Manila is proud of. Among these sites is the Luneta Park or Rizal Park, which is one of the favorite destinations of many Filipino families. The park?s green areas provide perfect place to relax and have some picnic. Recently, many people are visiting the park to witness the newly installed dancing fountain. Other places to visit are the National Museum of the Philippines, Quirino Grandstand, Cultural Center of the Philippines and Manila Ocean Park.

Where to Stay
Manila, being one of the highly urbanized cities in the country, offers a lot of accommodation options for tourists and visitors. Some of the known hotels are Diamond Hotel, Manila Hotel, Baywatch Tower and Suites and Amanpulo Hotel. Apart from the luxurious hotels, budget travelers won?t also find it hard to find a place to stay in the city for there are also budget hotels and inns in the area.

Getting There and Going Around
Manila, being a big city, offers a lot of transportation options to its visitors. The primary means to get around the city is through the famous local transportation — the jeepney. At the present, air-conditioned Tamaraw FX and Toyota Kijang are also used as mode of transportation to some areas within Metro Manila along with jeepneys and buses. Other fast transportation options are taxis, which can be found in almost all the streets of Manila, LRT and MRT, which also transport people to other parts of the city. Water buses or Pasig River Ferry runs along the Pasig River and stopping at some major points of the city.

Other Places of Interest
Other than the remnants of the colorful and tragic past, Manila also boasts the quality of its nightlife. Funky bars and nightclubs can also be found in the city. Nightlife is great especially in Malate and Makati areas.

In Manila, it doesn?t matter who you are, what you are and where you came from, for you will definitely have fun in the city. All you need to do is take a deep breath and dive in.

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Enchanted Kingdom

Thousands of people head south of Manila to spend a day of fun-filled relaxation and adventurous excitement within the American-style walls of Enchanted Kingdom, a 17-hectare world class theme park conveniently located in the outskirts of Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

Enchanted Kingdom, a short five-minute ride from the Sta. Rosa Tollgate of South Luzon Expressway, brings the closest version of Disney-type leisure in the country. The theme park, managed and operated by Amtrust Leisure Corporation (ALC), offers educational entertainment tours to students and "gastronomic treats" to families.

The P1.2-billion park, which has been operating since July 28, 1995 was conceptualized by Landmark Entertainment Group and designed after the Knott's Berry Farm, America's first amusement theme park located in Buena Park, California. It is a member of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). As such, it provides visitors with thrilling rides, stunning sights, and wondrous experience.

In the words of the Enchanted Kingdom operators, "the place is an active mix of thrills, attractions, entertainment, food service, celebrations and shopping set amidst an enthralling place that presents the past and the future, the quaint and the sophisticated, the picturesque and the dazzling in one unique package."

Enchanted Kingdom is an aggregate of seven theme zones: Victoria Park, Portabello, Brooklyn Place, Spaceport, Jungle Outpost, Midway Boardwalk, and Boulderville. These zones serve as enclaves to 21 thrilling rides and attractions meant to provide daring visitors with a sense of flight, twist, twirl, and other acrobatic stunts.

The rides include the Grand Carousel, Flying Fiesta, Rialto, Space Shuttle, Log Jam, Wheel of Fate, Condor, Up Up and Away, Roller Coaster, Anchors Away, Dodgem, Stone Eggs, Air Pterodactyl, Swan boats, and Bump n Splash. In the near future, the park is set to introduce other exciting rides such as the Kiddie Train Ride and the Rio Loco River Rapid Ride.

Aside from the rides, Enchanted Kingdom also charms its visitors with various treats such as the fireworks show every weekend, dance presentation by the park's in-house talents, theater shows, seasonal shows, well-manicured gardens, classic American brownstone facades and establishments, and a variety of characters and mascots led by the Wizard.

How to get to Enchanted Kingdom?
This guide will help you get to Enchanted Kingdom by Commuting or via the Public Transport. This is your Travel Guide to the Enchanted Kingdom.

If you are coming from Manila, there is a Bus Terminal located at the corner of Taft Avenue and Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue (Formerly Buendia Ave). Take a Bus bound for Balibago.

If you are coming from EDSA, go to the south bound lane... Look for a Bus Stop (Loading / UnLoading Area). Take a Bus bound for Balibago.

Take a Bus bound to Balibago. Just to be sure, check this out with the Driver or the Bus Conductor. Ask if this is the correct bus going to Enchanted Kingdom.

If you are keen on monitoring landmarks to help you estimate how far you have gone, please take note of the following South Expressway exits. Counting from Mantrade: (1) Merville Exit (2) Bicutan Exit (3) Sucat Exit
(4) Alabang Exit (5) Susana Heights Exit (6) San Pedro Exit (7) SouthWoods Exit (8) Carmona Exit (9) Mamplasan Exit (11) Sta. Rosa Exit.

After the Sta. Rosa Toll Exit, the bus will turn left going to the Sta. Rosa town proper.

Get off at the WalterMart. This is more or less around 5 mins travel.

You will then see a queue of trikes or tricycles. Ask the driver to bring you Enchanted Kingdom. This will take less than 10 mins ride.

Enjoy the rides!

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Banahaw

Another popular destination, specially during the Lent period, is Mount Banahaw, an extinct volcano which rises 2,100 meters above sea level.

Banahaw towers over the southeastern towns of Laguna and Quezon. Revered as a mystical mountain, Banahaw has become a sanctuary for different religious cults. Up on Banahaw's leafy slopes live members of various religious sects who adhere to what seems to be a mixture of Catholicism, Buddhism, the cabala, animism and other forms of pagan worship. Down below, in the foothill towns, dwell amulet-makers, soothsayers, faith healers, diviners and dedicated UFO watchers.

Banahaw comes alive during the Lent when various religious sects re-enact the passion of Jesus Christ. People ascend to Mount Banahaw to experience its cool weather, bathe in its hot springs or simply stand amazed at the sight of nature's beauty.

Mount Banahaw can be reached from both east and west. From the east, the ascent starts in Lucban, Quezon, while from the west, in Dolores, Laguna. For both climbs, it is advisable to have a guide to ensure a safe trip.

Where to stay?
Whether Lucban is just a daytrip for most people coming from Manila because of the lack of accommodation, it is probably best to contact the Pahiyas Festival website for referrals for places to stay in Lucban. Lucban, like Kalibo in Aklan has a similar boomtown character (although Kalibo does have more places to stay).

The Patio Rizal Hotel (+63.42.5402107) on the main street of Quezon Avenue has 18 rooms with 1 VIP suite and is amongst the most recommended places to stay in Lucban. As a tip, book your room possibly a year in advance if you plan to stay overnight during the festival. It is basically a stone’s throw away from the church where the procession basically starts and ends.

How to get to Banahaw?
Take a bus from Kamuning JAM Bus Terminal “LUCENA BOUND” if you are in Quezon City or near the area.
Cost is P158.50 to TIAONG MARKET (new)

From LRT-BUENDIA JAM BUS TERMINAL “LUCENA BOUND” if you are in Makati or near the area.
Cost is: P150. to TIAONG MARKET (new)

GET OFF IN TIAONG MARKET (new)

Walk across towards the road that leads to the public market & go to the jeepney terminal at the back of the market (left side) that goes to Dolores.
Cost: P13

Tell the jeepney driver to drop you off in the area of Electra Crushing plant near kilometer 99. You will see the sign PARKS OF STUDY AND REFLECTION, BANAHAW in Barangay Dagatan, Quezon Provincial road.

Your landmark before approaching the Park would be kilometer 99 so watch out for this & remind the jeepney driver to drop you off in Barangay Dagatan.

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Sagada

Bomod-ok Falls

This Mountain Province town, situated west of Bontoc, boasts of its cool weather and spectacular sceneries. A pastoral upland valley, Sagada provides an endless expanse of mountain ranges which are clothed by fogs in the early morning.

Sagada Sumaging Cave

Sagada Hanging Coffins

Among its attractions are towering limestone cliffs, subterranean caves and unexplored forests. Some of Sagada's caves remain unconquered. Because of their length and depth, Sagada's natives believe that these caves lead to the center of the Earth.

Other sites to visit in Sagada are the Kitongan bottomless pit and underground river, Calvary Hill, Bukong Falls and Alipine Lake Banao. Sagada has accommodation facilities and can be reached by public buses from Banaue in Ifugao province or from Baguio City.

Where to stay?
This is a list of Lodgings in Sagada, Mountain Province.To help you in the location, a map is located at the bottom of the list.

ALAPO’S INN
Location: Ato, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0921-327-9055

ALFREDO’S INN
Location: Poblacion, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0918-588-3535, 0919-302-7122

ALIBAMA INN
Location: Dagdag, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0920-813-5797

A-7 HOUSE
Location: Nangonogan, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0921-287-6093

BILLY’S HOUSE
Location: Nangonogan, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0921-603-2745

CANAWAY
Location: Dagdag, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0910-709-2631

CHURYA-A
Location: Mabbay, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0906-430-0853

GANDUYAN INN
Location: Poblacion, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0906-430-0853, 0921-273-8097

GECKO INN
Location: Mabbay, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0920-289-5471

GEORGE GUESTHOUSE
Location: Dagdag, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0918-548-0406

GREEN HOUSE
Location: Poblacion, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0910-565-031, 0918-403-6571

HOMESTAY TRANSIENT
Location: Poblacion, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0919-702-8380

IGOROT INN
Location: Poblacion, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0928-630-5479

KANIP-AW
Location: Kanip-Aw, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0921-647-0037

LIGAYA
Location: Kapinitan, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0918-343-8415

MAPIA-AW PENSION
Location: Mapia-aw, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0905-216-4055, 0912-316-7941

OLAHBINAN
Location: Poblacion, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0928-406-7647

RESIDENTIAL LODGE
Location: Dagdag, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0919-672-8744

ROCKY VALLEY INN
Location: Nangonogan, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0918-403-6018

ROCK INN
Location: Batalao, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0920-909-5899

SAGADA GUEST HOUSE
Location: Poblacion, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0919-357-4377

SAINT JOSEPH
Location: Poblacion, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0918-559-5934

TRAVELLERS INN
Location: Dagdag, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0920-799-2960

YABAMI LODGE
Location: Mabbay, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0920-411-9976

YELLOWHOUSE
Location: Dagdag, Sagada, Mountain Province
Contact Number: 0999-514-8820

How to get to Sagada?
There are two major routes to Sagada – one on the western and more developed side via Baguio City and the other along the east via Banaue. Among which are as follows:

The Highly Recommended Manila-Baguio-Sagada Route
Victory Liner is the bus line of choice to Baguio City. The company offers almost eighty trips a day from its five bus stations in Metro Manila. The two biggest stations are the ones in Pasay (convenient for those in the Pasay-Manila-Makati area) and Cubao (convenient for those from Quezon City). A bus leaves every hour on the hour. Unless its peak season (April – May), it’s very likely that you won’t need a reservation. You may simply go to the station and buy the tickets there for the next bus.

Price: Php460.00 one way  Schedule: Every hour

Duration: 6-8 hours. If you leave Manila late at night (around 10 PM, you can arrive in Baguio before 5 AM). Traffic jams in Manila and other cities along the way can dramatically change your time of arrival.

Stops: The bus stops twice at provincial stations for restroom breaks. The stations also have concessionaire stands for light snacks and drinks.

Upon arriving at Baguio, you may take a cab to the Dangwa Bus Station. The cab fare will cost about Php40-50 Locate the Lizardo Transit station – facing the station, it’s on the LEFT side. They have a small ticket booth where you could buy tickets minutes before the bus leaves. The first trip

Price: Php220.00  Schedule: First bus leaves at 630AM. The last bus leaves at 1 PM.

Trip Duration: 6-7 hours (The roads are pretty rough.)

Stops: The bus makes two stops. There are restrooms and food stalls in the vicinity as well.

For the way back going to Baguio, the first bus leaves at 5am, last bus leaves at 1pm. Between 5am-1pm, the bus leaves every hour.

2.   The Manila-Banaue-Bontoc-Sagada Route

Another option for Manila based tourist bound to Sagada is to take the Manila-Banaue-Bontoc-Sagada route. The entire trip takes more or less twelve (12) hours. Manila to Banaue is a nine (9) hour bus ride that passes through Central Luzon provinces of Bulacan, Nueva Ecija and Nueva Vizcaya all the way to this town in the province of Ifugao . From Banaue bus terminal, a short tricycle ride will lead you to the town proper where the buses to Bontoc pass. Banaue to Bontoc is a two hour ride along Halsema highway, and Bontoc to Sagada is 45 minutes on a jeepney. Here is the summary of the entire travel:

Manila – Banaue (9 hours)
Bus: Autobus Line (Espana cor Cataluna, Sampaloc, Manila) ETD: 10pm Daily
Fare: Php462.00
Bus: Florida Bus Line (Sampaloc, Manila) ETD: 10:45pm Daily
Fare: Php450.00

Autobus Terminal – Banaue Town Proper Tricycle Fare: P20.00

Banaue – Bontoc (2 hours) Bus: Immanuel Bus Fare: P100.00

Bontoc – Sagada (45 minutes) Jeepney Fare: P35.00

3.  Manila-Bontoc-Sagada Route

Bontoc is the capital of Mountain Province. It is about 12 hours from Manila and a mere 45 minutes from Sagada. Compared to Baguio, there are definitely less buses going to Bontoc. Here’s the summary of the entire travel:

Manila-Bontoc (12 hours)
Bus: Cable Tours
E. Rodriguez, QC near Trinity College
Fare: Php650.00 << this is recent update
Schedules 8:00pm Manila- Bontoc  3:00pm Bontoc – Manila

Bus: Kasilen Transport
Fare: Php500.00 Schedules: 9:00 pm Manila – Bontoc  4:00 pm Bontoc – Manila

Bontoc – Sagada (45 minutes ride)
Fare: Php35.00 @ 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM – One jeep on the hour every hour.

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Tagaytay

Tagaytay picnic grove

With an altitude of 2,250 feet above sea level, Tagaytay City enjoys a cool climate all year round. This city perched on a ridge is located in the province of Cavite, some 56 kilometers south of Manila. It overlooks Manila Bay on the north, Taal Lake and Taal Volcano on the south, Laguna Bay on the east and the China Sea on the west. The city is linked to the Metropolitan Manila and the province of Batangas by the Aguinaldo Highway.

Tagaytay viewing Taal lake and volcano

Among its attractions is the Tagaytay Picnic Grove where one can get an unobstructed view of Taal Volcano, which lies within a lake. Taal Volcano, which rises 406 meters from the lake, is reputedly the world's smallest volcano.

Taal Lake itself is an immense body of water formed when the old crater collapsed and the walls of the larger volcano caved in and sank.

A visit to the Volcano Island can be arranged through the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology in Quezon City which maintains a monitoring station on the island.

Tagaytay Highlands cable car

For visiting tourists, support facilities are readily available in this idyllic city. Tagaytay is the "sister" city of Las Vegas and Nevada, U.S.A; Tainan City, Taiwan; and Bankstown City, New South Wales, Australia.


Where to stay?
Here's our list of Hotel, Inns and Apartelle's in Tagaytay. This is by no means all of them.

The Royal Taal Inn [ The recommended place to stay in Tagaytay, overlooking rooms from just Php 2,750.]
Calamba Road, Tagaytay City
on way towards Palace in the Sky
Telephone: 046 483 1066
E-mail: info@royaltaal.com
Click here for map

Club Estancia Resort
Zone II, Brgy. San Jose, Tagaytay City
Tel Nos. (046) 483-11-33 to 35 ,
Fax No. (046) 483-10-47 Tagaytay City

Hotel Royal Parc Hotel and Restaurant
Silang Crossing North
Tagaytay City
Tel Nos. (046) 483-10-32;
413-12-63 to 64

Mahogany Hotel
J.P. Rizal Avenue,
South, Tag. City
Tel. No. (046) 860-06-97
Cell No. (0918) 250-51-03
Fax No. (046) 860-04-09

Royal Parc Hotel and Restaurant
Kaybagal Silang Crossing North, Tagaytay City
Tel Nos. (046) 483-10-32; 483-12-63 to 64

Days Hotel
Silang Crossing East, Tagaytay City
Tel. Nos. (046) 483-50-50; 483-23-23

S.N. David Sonrisa
J.P. Rizal Ave., Kaybagal South
Tel. No. (046) 483-15-37

Residence Inn
Tagaytay-Batangas Highway
Neogan, Tagaytay City
Tel. No. (046) 483-13-76

Viewpoint Inn and Restaurant
Tagaytay-Batangas Highway
Neogan, Tagaytay City
Tel. No. (046) 483-13-64

Rancho Freva Lodge and Steak House
Tagaytay-Batangas Highway
Mendez Crossing West, Tag. City
Tel. Nos. (046) 483-14-99 & 860-01-41

Aroma Apartelle
Tagaytay-Calamba Road
San Jose, Tagaytay City
Tel. No. (046) 483-00-44

Country Inn
Olivares Plaza
San Jose, Tagaytay City
Tel. No. (046) 483-03-11

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

Option 1: via SLEX Sta. Rosa Exit, the most popular and easiest, is a straight drive all the way to Tagaytay Public Market (and right smack into Tagaytay Econo Inn) where you turn right going to Tagaytay city proper and Nasugbu/Balayan/Lemery Batangas or left going to People's Park in the Sky. Usual travel time from Makati CBD is 1.5 hours.

Option 2: SLEX Greenfields Exit, an alternate route to Tagaytay that pass by Pramana, Nuvali, Eton City and Paseo de Sta. Rosa, ideal to avoid traffic buildup on Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay National Road on Saturday mornings thus making it the fastest route to Tagaytay on weekends.

Option 3: SLEX Southwoods exit then Governor's Drive in Carmona going to Dasmarinas. Turn left on Maguyam Road just before the Shell Station to your left.

Option 4: Roxas Boulevard, Baclaran, Coastal Road, Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas via Aguinaldo Highway. Not recommended due to presence of heavy traffic made worse by SM Dasmarinas and Robinsons Palapala. At the end of Aguinaldo Highway is the Tagaytay Rotonda (roundabout) where a statue of Ninoy Aquino, a BPI with ATM, Days Inn, Max's Restaurant and 7-11 store as landmarks.

Option 5: Another route for the adventurous to Tagaytay is via Daang Hari that passes by Molino, Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas and Silang. It bypasses the traffic chokepoint of Bacoor rotonda but not SM Dasma and Robinsons.

Option 6: From Sto. Tomas, Batangas via StarToll in going to Lipa City, take Sambat exit and follow the national road to Talisay then go up Ligaya Drive, the zigzag road to Tagaytay (sometimes called Bitukang Manok, not for the faint of heart and newbie drivers)

Note: If you're a foreigner, you can hire vans to get there or an airport taxi. Some taxi drivers charge a fixed rate or double the meter fare plus toll fees.

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

If you're going to Tagaytay via public transportation, request the driver to drop you off at your destination if along the way or at Tagaytay Rotonda (landmarks: Ninoy Aquino monument, BPI, Max's, 7-11) where you can ride jeepneys or tricycle to your target place.

From Manila Airport to Tagaytay City: the cheapest way is to ride the shuttle service from all terminals that pass by MRT Taft Avenue Station and ride BLTB or Crow Transit Buses to Tagaytay. Alternatively, hire a taxi to take you directly to Tagaytay (no idea on current fares) or just to the bus stations.

From Mandaluyong to Tagaytay: Ride vans (V-Hires) bound for Batangas and Tagaytay in front of Starmall at the corner of EDSA and Shaw Boulevard (walking distance from MRT Shaw Boulevard station). Fare as of posting time is PhP150.00 (this is the best option for those living in Rizal province)

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

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

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

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

From Cubao, Quezon City: ride buses going to Nasugbu, Lemery or Calatagan at Cubao Bus Terminal in front of Ali Mall.

Shuttle service (vans, FX, V-Hires) in front of EGI Mall (Jollibee) at the corner of Taft Avenue and Sen. Gil Puyat Ave (Buendia) going to Nasugbu, Balayan and Lemery, Batangas that all pass by Tagaytay.

Shuttle service (vans, FX, V-Hires) going to Nasugbu, Balayan and Lemery at Metropoint mall basement at the corner of EDSA and Taft Avenue (accessible from LRT EDSA Station or MRT Taft Avenue station, this is also the so-called EDSA Rotonda though there's really no rotunda there). Current fare is PhP160.00 (regardless of where you're going since it's a derecho trip...information provided by Tutubi's officemate who lives in Balayan, Batangas)

Buses to Tagaytay:
Bus Fare to Tagaytay Rotonda from EDSA Rotonda (EDSA corner Taft Avenue, near LRT and MRT): PhP83.00 (as of March 2011)

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

Crow Transit (Crow bus terminal at the corner Taft Ave & EDSA right below MRT Taft Avenue station and walking distance from LRT EDSA station, same terminal as Erjohn & Almark and Genesis behind Sogo Hotel and MacDonalds) has buses to Nasugbu/Calatagan/Balayan in regular schedules.

BLTB (EDSA, Malibay, Pasay City) has buses every 15 minutes to Nasugbu, Balayan or Calatagan Batangas that pass by Tagaytay

Kirby Bus to Tagaytay from Lawton

San Agustin bus with signboard "Mendez-Tagaytay" from Harrison Plaza on Vito Cruz (Pablo Ocampo) or Baclaran via Coastal Road, Aguinaldo Highway to the towns of Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas and Silang before reaching Tagaytay. (note this is a slow route due to lots of chokepoints in Cavite)

Saulog Bus Lines with signboard "Mendez-Tagaytay" from Harrison Plaza in Manila or Baclaran via Coastal Road, Aguinaldo Highway to the towns of Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas and Silang before reaching Tagaytay (note this is a slow route due to lots of chokepoints in Cavite)

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

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

Jeepneys going to People's Park in the Sky (indicated on the jeepney signage or emblazoned on the sides) at Olivarez Plaza near Tagaytay Rotonda will take you to People's Park in the Sky, Picnic Grove, Tagaytay Public Market (where you can catch jeepneys going to Balibago, Sta. Rosa, striking distance from Enchanted Kingdom), Rowena's Cafe (after a jeepney ride to Balibago), Good Shepherd Convent (Bahay Pastulan pasalubong, near Mary Ridge), Tagaytay Econo Inn, Royal Taal Inn, Keni Po Rooms, Aroma Apartelle, Amora Rooms, 5R Rooms for Rent, T House, Development Academy of the Philippines, Japanese Garden, Tagaytay Gymnasium.

Jeepneys with signboards Nasugbu or Mendez will take you to Mendez Junction, Pamana Restaurant, Antonio's Restaurant, Bag of Beans, Caleruega Church (after a tricycle ride), Evercrest Hotel, RSM Lutong Bahay Restaurant, Mijo Hotel, Magallanes Square (Starbucks, Figaro, Leslie's Restaurant, Max's, Cafe Lupe, Kitaro, LZM Lutong Bahay, Magallanes Square Hotel), Josephine's Restaurant, Royale Parc Hotel and Restaurant, The Summit Ridge Hotel, Tagaytay International Convention Center, Mushroom Burger, Rancho Ferva Lodge, Taal Vista Hotel, Bali Village Hotel, The Roberts Inn, Hotel Dolores, Residence Inn (with a mini-zoo), Tagaytay City Hall, Mahogany Market, 41st Division USAFFE site (beside Metro Tagaytay College of Business and Arts in Kaybagal South), Splendido Taal Golf and Country Club, Sonya's Garden et al.

Jeepneys to Talisay, for those wanting for a boat ride in Taal Lake, are available at the corner of the highway and Ligaya drive (landmark: Tagaytay Elementary School)

Going back to Manila, you may need to ride a jeepney to People's Park in the Sky, then transfer to a jeepney going back to Olivarez Plaza where you wait for buses to take you back to Manila. Recommend buses via Sta. Rosa (SLEX), and not via Silang/Dasma/Imus/Bacoor (Aguinaldo Highway) for lesser travel time.

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

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Camiguin Island

Camiguin Island the place has been known to be one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines because it still seems like a paradise. Some people even consider the place the “Garden of Eden” in the country. Camiguin has a great topography that includes waterfalls, and the hot and cold springs. The place will be mesmerizing and will definitely tempt you to go back.


Where to stay?
Jasmin by The Beach:
Only small resort with only 2 bungalows and 1 room in the main house, all with fan, no aircon. Room rate about 500,- Peso per night. Very good (swiss) food in the restaurant. Tel.: (088) 387-9015, ask for "Melinda".

Caves Resort:
Bungalow resort on Agoho Beach with about 10 bungalows, some with aircon and some with fan only. Restaurant & Dive Center. Room rates start at: 1300.

Paras Beach Resort:
One of the more luxurious resorts on Camiguin. More than 30 rooms either in the main building or in a separate cottage. Swimmingpool, Restaurant & Dive Center. Room rates start at 1950.

Secret Cove:
Small Beach Resort under Canadian/Filipino Management. Very good food and the best stocked bar on the island. 6 aircon and 1 fan room. Rates start at 850,- for the fan room and at 1200.

Camiguin Beach Club
Small Beach Resort at the end of Yumbing Beach. Only six rooms with A/C, restaurant & swimming pool. Rates start at 1600.

Bahay Bakasyunan sa Camiguin
Luxurious Resort east of Mambajo and next to the pier in Balbagon, where the weekly Super Shuttle Ferry from Cebu arrives. Restaurant & Swimming Pool, Rates from 2350.

Camiguin Action Geckos Dive & Adventures Resort
Small bungalow resort in the center of Agoh Beach under Swiss/German management. There are four beach- cottages and 3 simple traveller rooms, close to the beach. Restarurant & Dive Center. Rates: from US$ 15 for Traveller room and US$ 40 for a Beach Cottage.

Camiguin Highland Resort
Luxurious Hotel Resort, located in the mountains of Camiguin. Restaurant with function rooms, swimming pool, jacuzzi. All set up for business meetings and seminars but also for the traveller who likes to stay in a luxurious ambience. Room rates start at 2200.

How to get to Camiguin Island?
To get to Camiguin, one has to travel one and a half hours from Cagayan de Oro City to Balingoan, Misamis Oriental, and take any of the hourly scheduled ferries across the channels of Mindanao Sea, which dock in either ports of Guinsiliban or Benoni. There is a regular sea and air transportation from Cebu to  Camiguin  and vice versa. Once in  Camiguin , one can go around the 64-kilometer circumferential road in just one hour and a half time through public or private transportation.

The people of  Camiguin  are friendly, fun-loving, and very hospitable. It’s capital, Mambajao, has a friendly small community of mostly Visayan and Chinese origin. Camiguingnons are also hardworking. The main occupation of the people is fishing and farming. Coconut is the major production as far as sources of income is concerned. Other plantations are abaca, rice, mangoes, lanzones and other fruit trees. Small cottage industries are increasing in number to accommodate the influx of visitors. Cebuano is the main language while a few speak Kinamiguin, an ancient dialect. Nearly everyone speaks English fairly.

Their source of livelihood comes from the produce of their land and the surrounding ocean. Every October, Lanzones Festival transform the island into an explicit sight of townsfolk dressed up in their traditional costumes to celebrate the harvest of this small, sweet tasting, light-yellow fruit that grows in bunches at the foot of Mt. Hibok-hibok. The festival is remarkably good-natured, filled with colors and properly organized. Camiguin Lanzones Fruit Aside from these natural landforms huddling in the island, Camiguin is an area of forested mountains mixed with coconut trees along its coasts.

Camiguin beckons you to come, savor and discover the many ways anyone can unwind and joyfully dwell on the island's offerings.

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Malapascua Island Beach

Malapascua Beach is not yet very well known to the public. Though, its popularity to the tourists is accelerating now. It is situated in the farthest end of Cebu. Malapascua in English is “Unfortunate Christmas”. But, there is no unfortunate thing in Malapascua. It has the best sunset view in Cebu. This beach has many attractions to offer, too.

Where to stay?
Hippocampus Beach Resort
Daan Bantayan, Cebu, Philippines

Bounty Beach Cocobana Resort
Bounty Beach, Philippines

Bantigue Cove Malapascua Beach Resort & Dive Shop
Malapascua, Philippines

Dano Beach Resort
Bounty Beach, Malapascua Island

How to get to Malapascua Island Beach?
Boat
There are regular ferries to Cebu pier from almost all the islands of the Philippines.

Air connections
The main gateway for Malapascua is Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu City.
Four international airlines have direct Cebu connections: Cathay Pacific, Malaysian Airlines, Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines (Silk Air). Mactan/Cebu International Airport is a small, relaxed airport on Mactan Island, about 15 km from the city centre.Three airlines are also flying to Cebu daily - Air Philippines, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines.

Cebu to Maya by bus
From the airport take a taxi for about 150 pesos to the Cebu North bus station and get on one of the frequent buses to Maya (e.g. Ceres, the aircon buses are brand-new). These will take you for 95 pesos in 3 ½ - 4 hours on mostly good roads directly to Maya pier at the northernmost tip of Cebu Island.

Cebu to Maya by taxi
Hiring an air-conditioned taxi from the airport to Maya will cost about 2, 200 pesos. This is a very comfortable option, saves about one hour travel time and makes the scenic road, which mostly follows the shoreline, quite pleasant.

Maya to Malapascua
At Maya pier porters are waiting to carry your baggage for a few pesos on one of the outrigger boats servicing Malapascua. At low tide these pump boats cannot come in, so small crafts will ferry you to the boat. Be prepared to get wet feet walking through some shallow water! Regular boats leave for Malapascua until 5 p.m. about every 30 to 60 minutes (fare 40 pesos), as soon as enough passengers are on board. An instant special ride is available for 800 PHP. After 5 p.m. it may be hard to find a boat, so rather plan an overnight stay in Cebu City, when you are late. The boat ride to Malapascua’s Bounty beach will take 30 to 40 minutes. Hippocampus is located at the eastern end of the beach about two minutes walking from the boating point; our boys will give you a hand with your luggage.

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Pagudpud Beach

Pagudpud Beach is the most popular beach in Ilocos Norte. It is about 60 kilometers north of Laoag, capital city of Ilocos Norte. Pagudpud Beach is quickly gaining its popularity as one of the top beaches in the Philippines. As time goes by, lots and lots of people are unearthing the land’s jewels. Pagudpud Beach is popular due to its, crystal clear sea, smooth sands and the exotic marine life. This is really a perfect beach for the tourists. Available activities include trekking and other ecological adventures.

Where to stay?
Tartaruga's Hotel and Pagudpud Yacht Club Restaurant
 Pagudpud B&B and Inns
Apo Idon Beach Hotel
 Punta Garvida Beach Resort
Arinaya White Beach Resort
Villa Del Mar Ivory Beach Resort
Pagudpud Rinnovati
Cathys Homestay
Romaville Beach Resort
Tartaruga's Hotel
Pagudpud Hotels (3)
Saud Beach Resort & Hotel
Terra Rika Dive Resort
Pannzian Beach and Mountain Resort

How to get to Pagudpud Beach?
There are some choices, some more convenient than others.

To get to Pagudpud, first get yourself to the Philippines. You'll arrive in Manila, one of the world's biggest cities. It's an awesome place that is choked with traffic, people and life. There are skyscrapers, malls, parks and attractions in large numbers. Accomodations in Manila run the range, from the deluxe to the seedy. The Makati district has some of the city's finest hotels. Many, including the most high-class, offer excessive discounts to balikbayans and the cheapest rates to local residents.

By Air
Flight schedules to and from Laoag, the provincial capital of Ilocos Norte, are difficult to come by. Things keep changing. Philippine Airlines used to have connecting flights to and from Manila. Air Philippines used to fly there, too. Laoag International Airlines has or used to have operations there. There are some carriers that fly directly from Taiwan. The province has long talked about upgrading its airport to increase tourism, but so far it's just that.

Land transportation (Bus)
Take a long-distance bus and ride 8 hours to the Northern part of Luzon, known as Ilocos Norte. Ilocos is home of historic Vigan that offers the oldest stone-built houses in the country and Laoag City that holds the so-called "Malacañang of the North". But those are just sites you'll be passing through when you go to Pagudpud beach which is located 110 kilometers from Vigan.

The welcome scene: What does Pagudpud have in store for you? Dig this, the beach has crystal blue waters, white sand and Ilocos' native version of lechon kawali, bagnet (deep fried pork belly). Pagudpud beach is considered the Boracay of the North for its close resemblance to the beach island. The wonderful landscape will hold you in charm while you scan the town’s streams, falls, and mountain ranges.

Some bus companies will take you straight to Pagudpud from Manila. Be cautious because the trip is long and you'll be traveling about 350 miles, approximately the distance between San Francisco and Los Angeles. The bus (ordinary fare buses) often stops to unload passengers or pick up new ones. If you leave Manila at 7:30 p.m., expect to arrive in Pagudpud anywhere between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m. getting a Deluxe, air-conditioned bus makes things a lot more manageable -- and a lot speedier because of fewer stops. A night trip isn't that bad; just fall asleep, and when you wake up, you're there.

If you must get down in Laoag, you can continue the trip to Pagudpud by taking a mini-bus, renting a car or hiring a private vehicle. Commuter buses depart from Laoag every half hour, sometimes more or less frequently, depending on how quickly they fill up. The fare is reasonable, and the trip takes about an hour.

If using this route, just take a tricycle to the Pagudpud bus station. TIP: The tricycle fare should be no more than 10 pesos, although it doesn't hurt to double it as a bonus -- say no if they ask for something extreme, unless you don't mind spreading your wealth to complete strangers.

Here's a list of some of the bus companies that originate from Manila.

The benefit of taking a bus, particularly during the day, is that it allows you a more thorough sight of the country, even if from the national highway. Another plus is that a bus ticket from Manila is affordable, from $7 US (ordinary fare) to $10 (deluxe), depending on the exchange rate and the class of service.

Rent a car. Check with the major rental companies for rates. Driving in Manila will make you crazy. There's tons of traffic. Worse, lanes and traffic laws are seemingly optional. If you're prone to road temper, leave the driving to others.

Taxis are reasonably priced, though taxi drivers will try to snooker - heck, cheat and lie. Keep your eye on the meter; make sure it's working and is ticking correctly. Fares to and from the airport is more expensive.

Hire a driver. Some taxi drivers will offer to take you around. You can strike a deal for hourly or full-day service. Taxi service to outlying areas is pricier than bus service, but has its conveniences. Taxi drivers will sometimes offer their services to take you anywhere - I mean anywhere -- for a flat hourly or daily fee, though you pay for fuel, meals and any other minor expense. Driving allows you to go anywhere a car can go. You can stop anywhere, anytime, to get a closer look.

Whatever you choose, you'll find Pagudpud a wonderful place to escape. Once in Pagudpud, a tricycle -- it's not what you're thinking; it's an enclosed sidecar hitched to a motorcycle -- can take you to your destination. You can also arrange with the driver for transportation during the length of your visit.

From Manila, bus travel usually takes eight to nine hours, sometimes longer. If you've got time, the bus is a good deal. It's always a good idea to make sure the bus is air-conditioned. You'll be glad, especially during days of harsh heat. A deluxe bus, with reclining seats, is the best bet.

Verify with each bus company for schedules, fares and accurate destinations. Some of the companies listed below travel only as far as Laoag, the provincial capital of Ilocos Norte. From there, hop on a mini-bus to Pagudpud. Not sure where to get off, where to go? The bus conductor will be glad to help. Or just ask the person sitting next to you.

Auto Bus
Dimasalang cor. Laong Laan St., Sampaloc, Manila

Fariñas Transit
Laong-Laan St., cor. M. dela Fuente, Sampaloc, Manila

Maria De Leon Transit
Dapitan St., Sampaloc, Manila

Partas Transit
Aurora Blvd., cor. Bernardo St., Cubao, QC

Philippine Rabbit
Rizal Ave., Sta. Cruz, Manila

RCJ Transit
1558 España, Sampaloc Manila

Viron Transit
1209 Dapitan cor. Blumentritt St., Sampaloc, Manila

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Honda Bay

Honda Bay is located on the eastern coast of Palawan, a province in the southwestern part of the Philippines. Honda Bay is not just good for walking along the shore because of its soft, fine sands. It is also good for diving and snorkeling. Doing these activities will surely expose you its superb corals and fishes. There are also islets in Honda Bay that tourists can explore. These are Bat Island, Arceffi Island and Canon Island.

Where to stay?
Hotels near Honda Bay
Dos Palmas Island Resort and Spa
Hotel Area: Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa
Nitivos Beach Resort
Liberty Park Lodge
Hotel Area: Puerto Princesa Town Proper
Hotel Aloha Ranch and Organic Farm
Microtel Hotels & Resorts Puerto Princesa Palawan
Nikos Cabanas Resort
Angela's Pool Resort
People's Guesthouse
Villa Manuel Resort
Puerto Bed & Breakfast
Puerto Apartments
Bulwagang Princesa Tourist Inn & Restaurant
LS Villa Palawan
Villa Leonora Beach Resort
Palo Alto Bed & Breakfast
Asturias Hotel
Hotel Centro Palawan
DZR Guest House
Dolce Vita Hotel

How to get to Honda Bay?
The bay is situated in Sta. Lourdes Tagbanua, Puerto Princesa City. About 12 kilometers east of Puerto Princesa City is Sta. Lourdes wharf where pump boats could be hired to take tourists to the island of their choice. Some islands require an entrance fee; others are privately owned, thus, authorization from the owners is required. Sta. Lourdes wharf is 25 minutes away by hired tricycle or jeepney. A pump boat ride from the wharf to the different islands is from 15 to 50 minutes.

The fastest way to reach Honda Bay is via Barrio Tagburos is a mercury slag heap; one should not eat fish there. A dozen small islets with wonderful beaches and good sites for diving lie along the bay. Boats to the islands can be rented in Tagburos.

Just thirty minutes north of the City proper, hop into a boat and Go Island hopping at Honda Bay. Take your pick from dozens of white sands beaches. Pull on your mask and snorkel and glance into the rich marine life underwater. Dive sites abound here, as the entire area is studded with patches of coral and sand. Submerged reefs may be found close to the surface down to 24 meters, small reef fish and aquarium fish are found here. The area may soon be transformed into a marine life park and dive camp.

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Bantayan Island

Bantayan Island is located in Cebu. It is 15 kilometers north of Cebu City. It is home of isolated and awesome beaches. Foreign and local tourists are most bewitched with its  white sands in the southwest portion of the island. This island has also the clearest and purest water of all.

Where to stay?
Halles Tourist Inn, Ticad
*Note: Halle's Inn/Sacred Heart Apartelle/Island Pension are all located north of Santa Fe on the highway, as you come into Bantayan Town - all 3 are on the right side of the road.
* Aircon room #1: P600 per day, 2 beds (1 double/1single) private CR & cold water shower.
* Aircon room #2: P500 per day, 2 single beds, private CR & cold water shower.
Halles also has 4 Fan rooms at P300 per night (2 rooms w/single bed, 1 room w/double bed and 1 room w/2 single beds)
Contact Halles: +63-32-352-5182 landline
Mobile: +63-921-537-3348

Sacred Heart Apartelle: Ticad, Bantayan Town
SHA has 8 rooms in all for budget accommodation, both aircon & fan.
* Aircon rooms: P450 per day, double bed and CR/shower.
* Fan rooms: P150 per day per person; 2 single beds, common CR/shower in hallway.
There's a small guest lounge upstairs, to relax & watch Cable TV.
Contact Sacred Heart Apartelle: +63-32-352-3729 landline

 Island Pension House & Fast Foods: Ticad, Bantayan Town
IPH has 24 rooms in all for budget accommodation: 4 aircon rooms & 22 fan rooms.
* Aircon rooms: P450 per day, double bed, CR/shower.
* Fan rooms: P150 per day, per person - common CR/shower in hallway.
There's a fast food restaurant on the property, serving Filipino dishes from P5 to P20.
There's a small guest lounge upstairs, to relax & watch Cable TV.
Contact Island Pension House: +63-32-460-5730 landline.
Mobile: +63-920-845-7989

Montemar Pension House, Bantayan Town
* Aircon rooms: P400 per day (1 person) P600 per day (2 persons) Queen bed, CR/shower.
* Fan rooms: P350 per day.
Spacious aircon rooms with views of Bantayan Town, located in Bantayan Town in the northwest corner of the Plaza, above the Allied Bank building on Bantayan Island.
Contact Montemar at +63 (32) 460-5722 landline and mobile +63-910-466-8413

How To Get To Bantayan Island?
If you’re coming from Manila or somewhere else besides mainland Cebu, try to get the first flight to the province (or a 9 am flight at the latest) so you have enough time to make it to the last ferry to Bantayan.

1. From the Mactan International Airport you can take a taxi to the Cebu City North Bus Terminal. We didn’t see the line for the regular white cabs (flagdown of PHP30, PHP2.50 per additional), so we ended up lining in the yellow airport cabs (flagdown of PHP70, PHP4.00 per additional). The fare reached almost PHP200 from the airport to the bus terminal.

2. At the North Bus Terminal, there are no ticket booths. You pay the bus conductor the fare once the bus hits the road. We took a Ceres bus with a Hagnaya signboard, but just to be sure, we asked the drivers and conductors waiting by the bus stop if it was the one heading to the Hagnaya port, where we could catch a ferry to the Sta. Fe Pier in Bantayan. It was. It’s a non-air conditioned bus so be prepared for the heat when you get on the road around noon. The fare ranges from PHP50 to PHP70. On the way to Hagnaya, we paid PHP50. On the way back to North Bus Terminal, we got charged PHP70. My theory is it depends on the condition of the bus you’re riding–old, dinky Ceres bus for PHP50, relatively better and bigger Ceres bus for PHP70. My theory is probably wrong, but just prepare for that amount of fare.

It’s more than a three-hour bus ride, mostly along the national highway of Cebu, where you’ll see typical rural landscapes…

This definitely made bleary-eyed me, sit up and take notice. What was Astro Boy doing in a highway in Cebu? (On the way back, I saw that the statue was in front of an office building/factory called Cebu Mitsumi. A quick Google search shows that it’s a manufacturer of electronics, computers, and mobiles. Not sure if it was Japanese-owned though.) Anyway, after the Asto-Boy sighting, there remained around two more hours on the road.

3. When you get to Hagnaya Port, head over to the Island Shipping Corporation ticket booth. The fare is PHP70 per person. Supposedly, the Aznar Fastcraft gets there faster but the booth was closed. We hadn’t had anything substantial to eat (unless you call Ding-Dong and wheat crackers substantial) since we left the airport, so with only 10 minutes to spare before the 1:30 pm ferry left, we wolfed down these sticks of pork barbecue, grilled hotdogs and two bundles of puso (Cebu’s hanging rice) for our late lunch. It wasn’t the most delicious lunch, but for PHP47 for everything including a small bottle of Coke, who was I to complain. (Schedule of the ferry from Hagnaya to Sta. Fe: 5:00 am, 6:30 am, 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 3 pm every day, 5 pm on certain days; schedule from Sta. Fe pier to Hagnaya Port: 5:00 am, 7:30 am, 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 3:30 pm every day, and 5 pm every Wed, Fri, and Sun)

4. After almost an hour and a half on the ferry, it docks at Sta. Fe port. Porters and pedicab drivers would be approaching you to help you with your bags or take you to your resort (or in some cases the resort where they think you should stay because they get a commission); you can just ignore them if you want. We were thinking of just riding one of the pedicabs (God bless Bantayan, there seemed to be more pedicabs and bicycles than motorcycles and tricycles), but since it looked like it was going to rain pretty hard, we thought it best to ride a tricycle. It’s typically PHP25 per person if we waited for four more people to ride with us, but the driver asked for PHP100 if we wanted to rent the entire thing and leave. We were on a hurry so we agreed. And within a few seconds, the rain poured in thick sheets. The kind that even if you have an umbrella or the roof of a tricycle over your head, you’ll still get wet. When we got to our resort and I saw the beach, I thought, “I’m already soaked, I can swim right now.”

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Siargao Island

Siargao Island is known as the surfing capital of the Philippines. It is an island shaped like a tear drop in Surigao del Norte, about 800 km southeast of Manila. Siargao is best known for the surfers because of its huge, powerful waves. That’s why, it is tagged as the surfers’ dream. Best surfers are always spotted in this island. Big waves are not the only present in this island. You can also find a calm beaches here. Is not it a great contrast?

Where to stay?
Romantic Beach Villas
Beach resort Siargao Island,
swimming pool - comfortable rooms
www.islandsiargao.com/

Siargao Inn Beach Resort
Pangpang, Sta. Ines, Siargao Island, General Luna 8419
0999 889 9988 (Mobile) ‎

Borgs Lodging House
Sitio Matangkan, Pilar, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte

Isla Tour Vista
Camaligan, Barangay 12, Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
0915 298 7650 (Mobile) ‎

Cares Subayno Residence (Homestay)
Barangay Union, Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
0918 734 5673 (Mobile) ‎

M&B Tourist Inn
Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte

Marimar Lodging House
Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
0918 444 5627 (Mobile) ‎

MNRB Pensionne House
Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte

Siargao Pacific View Lodge (Homestay)
General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte

Kawayan Resort
Cloud 9, Siargao
kawayansiargaoresort.com

Buddha's Surf Resort
Catangnan, General Luna, Siargao Island
0919 945 6789 ‎ · siargaosurf.com

How to get to Siargao Island?
Getting to Siargao isn’t easy, but if it was we’re sure our Island wouldn’t be as magical – don’t worry it’s worth the journey!

From Manila
Option 1.
Cebu Pacific have flights from Manila to Siargao Island via Cebu twice per week, they fly on a Monday and Friday. Prices range from 900Php to 5,000Php one way – book early and look out for promos: https://cebupacificair.com/

Option 2.
Air Phil fly daily to Surigao City, departing at 11.20am and arriving at 1.00pm. From Surigao City airport you will take a car or tricycle to the boat port. From the port take a boat to Dapa, Siargao Island. Prices range from 900Php to 5,000Php one way – book early and look out for promos: http://www.airphilexpress.com/

From Cebu
Option 1.
Cebu Pacific have flights from Cebu to Siargao Island twice per week, on a Monday and Friday. Flights depart at 10.40am and arrive at 11.30am. Prices range from 900Php to 5,000Php one way – book early and look out for promos: https://cebupacificair.com/

Option 2.
Cebu Pacific and Air Phils fly to Surigao regularly. From Surigao take the

Option 3.
Not for the faint hearted! Cockaliong shipping lines run a boat daily from Cebu Pier 1 to Surigao City. Departing at 7.oopm and arriving at 5.40am, dependent on weather.

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Panglao Beaches

Panglao Beaches are found in Bohol, a province in the Central Visayas region. Though small island, Bohol is so much blessed with white sand beaches. The most beautiful beaches in Bohol can be seen in Panglao Island. Beach resorts line up in the shore of Panglao Island. Beaches in Panglao not only offer the tranquility of the sea but a walk along the shore allows you appreciate more the beauty of the whole island.

Where to stay?
Harmony Hotel
Danao, Panglao 6340
(038) 502 8289 ‎ · harmonyhotelsite.com

Bohol Sunside Resort
Tawala/Panglao
(038) 502 4001 (Fax) ‎ · bohol-sunside-resort.com

L'Elephant Bleu Restaurant & Inn
Alona Beach, Tawala, Panglao Island, Panglao 6340
0917 505 0971 ‎ · lelephantbleu.com

Ananyana Beach Resort & Spa Bohol
Lot 2C Doljo Beach 2C, Provincial Highway, Panglao 6340
(038) 502 8101 ‎ · gold-hotel.com

Flushing Meadows Hotel Bohol
Brgy. Dao Dauis, Panglao Island, Bohol Panglao Island Bohol

Cherrys @ Home
Tawala Panglao 6340
(038) 502 4049 ‎ · cherryshome.com

Alona Kew White Beach Resort
Tawala, Alona Beach, Panglao Island
(038) 502 9042 ‎ · alona-kew.com

Isola Bella Beach Resort
Lagitan, Poblacion, Panglao 6340
(038) 416 0781 ‎ · isolabellaresort.com

Chiisai Natsu Resort Panglao Bohol
Barangay Tawala
(038) 502 4115 ‎ · chiisainatsuresort.com

Paragayo Resort
Rona's Corner, Panglao, 6340
(038) 502 4043 ‎ · paragayoresort.com

How to get to Panglao?
Bohol is located in the middle of the Philippines, and can be conveniently reached by air and boat.

Coming from abroad, you have two options:
you can fly to Manila or Cebu. Cebu is the most convenient, but only a limited number of international flights will arrive there. Coming from Europe, you’ll need to have a stop-over in either Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Hong Kong, however, it will save you the hassle of going through Manila. Among others, the following airlines fly international routes to Cebu: Silk Air, Malaysia Airlines, and Cathay Pacific.

If you come via Manila, you’ll probably want to take a connecting flight to Tagbilaran, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It is also possible to take a boat to Bohol, but will take 25 hours, and is only advisable if you have plenty of time and enjoy a trip on sea, or have to travel on a rock-bottom budget. If you come from Manila, you can also go to Cebu by air, and then continue by boat. There are numerous daily flights from Manila to Cebu. The flying time is about 50 minutes. The transfer by taxi from the airport to the pier takes about 30 minutes in normal traffic conditions, and should cost 165 pesos. The following airlines fly on the from Manila to Cebu: PAL, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines, Asian Spirit, Astro Air, and Grand Air.

It is always worthwhile to look for a promotional fare if you fly.
You can save a considerable amount of money by asking around a little.

If you come via Cebu, you can also take a short 25 minute flight, but you’ll probably want to take the one and a half hour trip with a fast boat to Tagbilaran.

The regular boat to Tagbilaran will take about four hours. It is also possible to take a boat to Tubigon and Talibon, which may be more convenient if you want to be on the west or north coast of the island.

The most economical way to get from Cebu to Tagbilaran by boat is to catch a ferry to Tubigon, and continue by bus from Tubigon to Tagbilaran. This is sometimes both faster and cheaper than taking a boat directly to Tagbilaran.

Note: that security regulations on domestic flights in the Philippines no longer allow bringing liquids (such as perfumes and bottles of wine) as carry-on items into the cabin.

Even if you had those liquids sealed by duty-free shops on the airport of origin, you may be forced to throw them away if you are not able to place them in your checked-in luggage.

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Mayon Volcano

Mayon Volcano has a worldwide reputation as the most perfectly formed volcano in the world because of its near-perfect conical shape and form. Mayon Volcano is the champion among the best competitors for the world's most perfectly coned volcanoes like Osorno Volcano of Chile, Mount Fuji of Japan, Mount Taranaki of New Zealand, Mount Cotopaxi of Ecuador, Volcan Arenal of Costa Rica and Shishaldin Volcano of Alaska, USA.

Because of its natural elegance and beauty, it is listed on the World's Top 10 Wonders of Nature. Visitors traveling to Mayon Volcano from Manila would take an hour by plane getting to Legazpi City then 10 miles north of Legazpi city is the magnificent Mayon Volcano, the most popular landmark of the province of Albay, Philippines.

Where to stay?
Spring Zone Resort
Villa Angelina Resort and Convention Center
Shell Inn
Mayon Spring Resort
Balay De La Rama Hotel
Avia Inn
Capt. Mike's Beach Resort
Carlo's Hometel Bed and Breakfast
Mayon View Apartelle and Restaurant Sa Bukid
Costa Palmera Resort
Neuhaus Inn
Legazpi Airport Hotel
HCG Residence Mansion
Alicia Hotel & Restaurant
Villa Amada Hotel
Pepperland Hotel
Hotel Venezia
Salvador Manor de Legazpi
La Roca Veranda Suites & Restaurant
Vista Al Mayon Pensionne


How to get to Mayon Volcano?
Traveling by bus from Manila to Legazpi City, Albay takes about nine to 12 hours. Major bus companies such as Philtranco, Peñafrancia and RSL Transit in Cubao and Manila have daily trips to Legazpi.

Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and ZestAir have regular flight schedules to Legazpi which is almost one hour from Manila.

Traveling by sea is not recommended since the main port is out of the way. It is primarily used for traveling to nearby towns.

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Bohol - Chocolate Hills

Bohol is ranked as the number one tourist destination in the Philippines, and for good reason. This island city will give you hundreds of reasons to come, and hundreds more to stay. Firstly, this is the home of the tarsier, the smallest living mammal in the world, a true curiosity of Mother Nature. Right beside the city is the Luboc river River, where you’ll get to dine inside a slow moving boat and enjoy all the hidden beauty of the city from this new perspective.

There is also the Panglao Island, whose fine white sand beaches will help you work on your tan and forget about the office. Bohol is known for its chocolate hills – limestone formations in the area – these are one one of the most visited place in Bohol and absolutely one of the best places to go in the Philippines. Try and get to taste the local delicacy Kalamay or their new baked polvoron, both will make your mouth water and will surely ask for more and have you throwing out clothes to make room in your luggage to buy more.

The Chocolate Hills are probably Bohol's most famous tourist attraction. They look like giant mole hills, or as some say, women's breasts, and remind us of the hills in a small child's drawing. Most people who first see pictures of this landscape can hardly believe that these hills are not a man-made artifact. However, this idea is quickly abandoned, as the effort would surely surpass the construction of the pyramids in Egypt. The chocolate hills consist of are no less than 1268 hills (some claim this to be the exact number). They are very uniform in shape and mostly between 30 and 50 meters high. They are covered with grass, which, at the end of the dry season, turns chocolate brown. From this color, the hills derive their name. At other times, the hills are green, and the association may be a bit difficult to make.

How to get to Bohol?
By plane-At the moment, Bohol’s city airport in Tagbilaran services daily Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airline flights from Manila. It is undergoing renovation to accommodate the B-737s of Philippine Airlines. Ramp area improvement and the construction of a modernized airport building will soon ensure bigger aircraft will allow direct flight into Bohol. Most guests to Bohol enter the island either by land or sea via its island neighbor, Cebu.

By boat-The Tagbilaran City Tourist Pier handles more than 4,000 travelers on a daily basis. Nine daily ship calls from Cebu are processed efficiently, with other ships from Manila, Cagayan de Oro City, Dumaguete, Dipolog, Iligan City, Larena, Plaridel and Ozamiz City also welcomed on a regular basis. Another four port terminals cater specifically to Cebu and northern Mindanao routes. Additional berthing space for fastcraft ferries is currently under construction.

However these boats have scheduled timings and are run by more than one operator – hence tourists would be well advised to check timings before planning the trip. The first Cebu – Tagbilaran ferry leaves Cebu at 9 am (journey time 2 hours) and the last ferry departs Tagbilaran at 7 pm. It is easy to get a taxi or a trike at the ferry station.

Sunday ferries from Tagbilaran to Cebu are often fully booked, so book ahead or use the port in Tubigon if travelling on a Sunday.

Roros from Maasin leave every night at 7:30 to northern area of Bohol to the port town of Ubay.

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Hundred Islands National Park

Why not visit one of the best places in the Philippines which has its own legend? The Hundred Islands National Park (Pangasinan: Kapulo-puloan or Taytay-Bakes) is in the province of Pangasinan in northern Philippines. It is located in Alaminos City, Pangasinan. The islands (124 at low tide and 123 at high tide) are scattered along Lingayen Gulf and cover an area of 18.44 square kilometres (4,557 acres).

They are believed to be about two million years old.They say that each of the hundred islands has come from the noble soldiers who fought for the country. Although there are several different islands, only three of them have been developed and are enjoyable from a tourist’s perspective: Governor Island, Quezon Island, and Children’s Island. It’s easy to get around, though – just take a bus ride to Anda Alaminos and rent a ferry bound to the island you want to stay. Children’s Island is named such because it is really perfect for youngsters – it is surrounded by shallow water, which is suitable and safe for children to play.

The islands are actually ancient corals that extend well inland, in an area previously comprising the seabed of an ancient sea. Lowering sea levels have exposed them to the surface and the peculiar “mushroom”-like shapes of some of the islands have been caused by the eroding action of the ocean waves.

Where to stay?
The Big Brother House In Hundred Islands National Park

Location: Lucap Wharf, Alaminos City Pangasinan
Phone: (075) (075) 551-2505
E-mail: blue15_a@yahoo.com
Facilities/Amenities/Services: Rooms accommodation, open cottages & sheds

The Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos City, Pangsinan is comprised of 124 islands and islets at low tide and 123 at high tide and are scattered along Lingayen Gulf. Among these islands, only three are developed and commercialized for tourist attractions – Governor Island, Quezon Island, and Children Island. Aside from the three commercialized islands for tourist attractions you can also stay in The Big Brother house where the season 2 PBB grand final 4 stayed.

It costs Php10,000/night, but u can also stay there for Php1,500 on regular huts, or stay in tents for 40 pesos/night.

How to get to Hundred Islands National Park?
Alaminos City is the gateway to the Hundred Islands National Park. It is five hours by public bus from Manila. Victory Liner, Dagupan Bus, Five Star Bus and Philippine Rabbit have daily trips to Alaminos City. Aircon bus fare as of June 2010 is at approximately P350.00 one-way Manila to Alaminos, while ordinary (non-aircon) bus fare is around P250.

Barangay Lucap lighthouse
From Alaminos City proper, ride a tricycle going to Barangay Lucap, this is where the Tourism Information Center is located and the jump-off point to the Hundred Isles. Tricycle rate is at P60-P80 per ride that can fit three people.

The tourism office set standard boat rates to the park from Barangay Lucap (as of April 2012):

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The City of Baguio

Baguio is known as the “Summer capital of the Philippines” – located some 1,500 meters above sea level. The city is known for its mild climate, and since this is a tropical country and unbearably humid during summer, people visit this place for a cool down, just to get away from the city life and enjoy some simple recreation.

If you like nature and the smell of pine trees, you surely will enjoy staying in Baguio. Although the city is located on a mountain, it that doesn’t mean that you are deprived from nightlife. People here know what party means and they have wide array of bars and clubs for you to choose from. Session Road and Harrison Road are just two note worthy example of places in the heart of the city where you will keep plenty busy when you’re not relaxing. As well, there are several parks in the city which are perfect for a romantic stroll: Burnham Park, Wright Park and the famous Mines View Park where people spend their times with loved ones, are my recommendations.

Where to stay?
The Albergo Hotel
Pine Breeze Apartel
Venus Parkview Hotel
City Travel Hotel
Hotel Elizabeth
Golden Pine Hotel
Diamond Inn Baguio City
Baguio Holiday Villa Court
Baguio Country Club
Ridgewood Residence
Europa Condominium Villas
Hotel Veniz
Inn Rocio
Concorde Hotel
EL CIELITO INN
Microtel Inn and Suites

How to get to Baguio City?
By Airplane-There used to be one (1) daily 45- minute flight via Asian Spirit that leaves Manila at 9:15 a.m., and which will head back to Manila at 10:15 a.m.

But since this mode of transportation is unreliable during the rainy season as flights would be cancelled due to low visibility, and since the weather itseld has been unpredictable in recent years, Asian Spirit no longer flies to Baguio City.

However, since airplane rides are still preferred by a lot of visitors, especially businessmen, who do not have the time or patience for land travel, as can be gleaned from fully-booked Baguio flights, the city is currently negotiating with other carriers for regular flight service.

The Baguio airport is at Loakan Road, about 5km from the city center. It is called the Loakan Airport of course! Taxi cabs are waiting to pick up passengers right outside the terminal, so getting out should not be a problem.

By Bus-From Manila & Provinces South of Baguio:
Airconditioned bus trips to Baguio leave Metro Manila every hour, seven (7) days a week. The popular buslines are Victory Liner, Dagupan Bus Line and Philippine Rabbit. One-way bus tickets to Baguio cost about Php350-450.

A De Luxe service is being offered by Victory Liner that non-stop 4 to 5-hour trip, not the usual 7 that costs Php700 one-way. But you will have to buy your tickets ahead of time -- and in person -- in order to secure a seat.

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About the Philippines

The Republic of the Philippines is an archipelago consisting of some 7,100 islands and islets lying about 800 km off the southeast coast of Asia and stretching 1850 km from north to south. It is bounded by the Philippine Sea to the east, the Celebes Sea to the south, and the South China Sea to the west and north.

The Philippines takes its name from Philip II, who was king of Spain during the Spanish colonization of the islands in the 16th century. Manila is the biggest city and the national capital. It is located on Luzon, the largest island. Only about two-fifths of the islands and islets have names, and only 350 are larger than one square mile.

The Philippines is home to about 77 million people. Filipinos comprise 111 cultural and linguistic groups of Malayo-Polynesian origin, with varying degrees of Chinese, Spanish and American influences. About 90 per cent of Filipinos are Roman Catholic, with smaller numbers of Protestants and Moslems. The national language is Pilipino, although English is the language of commerce and politics.

Because it was ruled by Spain for 333 years and the United States for a further 48 years, the Philippines has many cultural affinities with the West. It is the fourth most populous country in which English is an official language and the only Christian country in Asia. Educationally, it is among the most advanced of Asian countries.

Filipino food reflects the country's varied history. Over the centuries, Chinese traders brought their culinary culture, Spanish colonizers added healthy touches of Castillan cooking, and U.S. colonization contributed convenience and fast food. Eating in the Philippines can therefore be an outstanding experience regardless of the traveler's budget. In recent years, a profusion of restaurants has emerged, many catering to continental European or exotic Asian tastes. There are some good Japanese restaurants, plus a smattering of Korean, Thai, Vietnamese and other establishments.

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Philippine Festivals - December

Marian Procession
Date: December 8 Location: Intramuros, Manila
A revival of religious tradition with more than 60 images of the Blessed Virgin Mary from various parishes and provinces paraded.

Pagdidiwata
Date: December 8 Location: Puerto Princessa, Palawan
A thanks giving celebration by the Tagbanua natives of Palawan in ritual dances and food offerings to their deities and souls of departed kin

Feast of the Immaculate Concepcion
Date: December 8 Location: Intramuros, Manila
An Eucharistic celebrabration of the Feast Day of the La Immaculada, patroness of Intramuros, capped by a grand procession of more than 50 Marian images from all over the country and participated in by thousands of devotees.

Bikol Pastores
Date: December 18 Location: Legazpi City, Albay
A unique Christmas celebration believed to have originated in the province where "pastores" - young men and women dressed in colorful shepherd costumes - joyfully dance and sing "Pastores a Belen" through the city streets.

San Fernando Giant Lantern Festival
Date: December Location: Ermita, Manila
A fiesta in honor of one of the oldest Marian images in the country (it was found by Legazpi's soldiers amidst the foliage of a pandan shrub on the shores of Ermita in 1571) - the La Nuestra Señora de Guia, patroness of seafarers and also known as Our Lady of Expectations. The main event of the fiesta is the Bota de Flores, a reenactment of a select group of young ladies and their escorts in sailor costumes of the procession returning the La Nuestra Señora de Guia to its reconstructed shrine in 1918.

Binirayan Festival
Date: December 28-30 Location: San Jose, Antique
A festive commemoration of an episode in the history of the Filipino race through colorful pageants acted on the beaches of Maybato in San Jose and Malandog in Hamtik. Particularly interesting is the drama of the first Malay settlement at malandog which runs for several days and nights. Binirayan is also an occasion of reunion with families, relatives and friends of homecoming Antiqueno expatriates.

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