turista trails

R O O M F O R T W O

Romance doesn't come just because you 're ready for it. It just happens. And most of the time, it happens in resorts. Getaways suddenly become memorable destinations that people return to for anniversaries. For others, it's a constant pursuit of making new memories in new places.

There is no month more timely than February when romantic resorts are at their most attractive. For that matter, here's a round-up of some (alphabetized according to their respective provincial locations) that I've personally visited in the past three years as a solo traveler. Most of them I managed to experience with friends and relatives for revisits. Should your anniversary as a couple fall in another month, the following resorts have lean season rates to sparingly set you back. For those who are still single, any of these can be your best chance to impress a prospect. A partner can just be one resort away.

Zuzuni Boutique Hotel (Aklan)

Location: The edge of Boat Station 1 in Boracay where the party scene of Station 2 is within reach
Recommended Room: Premiere Beachfront Room with private balcony
Couple Factor: The hotel itself is small but it's at the beachfront which renders most of its rooms with a sensational view of the tropical vibe of the island. The bedside balcony of the Premiere Beachfront Room allows for an engaging gaze of the party scene where the sand is, but it's also private enough for you and your romantic other to cuddle.
Read more about Zuzuni Boutique Hotel

Zuzuni Boutique Hotel (Aklan)

Dorotea Resort & Spa (Albay)

Location: The pastoral Bicol town of Bacacay in Albay, less than an hour away from Legazpi City
Recommended Room: The couple-ready Standard Angeline can set you back for less than P2,000 per night
Couple Factor: The room rate also lets you access the resort's big swimming pool and jacuzzi. The resort's spa is a bonus.
Read more about Dorotea Resort & Spa

Dorotea Resort & Spa (Albay)

Costa Pacifica (Aurora)

Location: The provincial capital of Baler roughly 143 miles northeast of Manila via a mountain pass that's accessible by bus and private vehicle
Recommended Room: The Pacifica Premiere Room that's facing the swimming pool and the beach
Couple Factor: It's the perfect luxury resort for surfing enthusiasts as the resort has a couple of swimming pools where they can relax in after spending time at the beach.
Read more about Costa Pacifica

Costa Pacifica (Aurora)

Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park (Bataan)

Location: Barangay Tala in Orani
Recommended Room: The Duplex Room for an optional indoor jacuzzi
Couple Factor: The mountain resort offers couples various scenic views of the highly vegetated Orani from an elevated terrain which is suited for long conversations and epic embraces.
More about this resort on the blog soon!

Vivere Azure (Batangas)

Location: At the secluded cliff-side curve of the National Road in Mabini's village of Anilao
Recommended Room: The Cobalt Room with a private sea-view veranda
Couple Factor: Guests can view the romantic moonlit sea from the bed of the room at night. The room's private veranda can give them a more expansive view of the sea any time of the day.
Read more about Vivere Azure

Vivere Azure (Batangas)

Peredo's Lodging House (Benguet)

Location: Along C.M. Recto Street of Baguio City (a few minutes away from Session Road)
Recommended Room: The room located at the first floor for a great view of the garden and an easy access to the lodging's common bathroom
Couple Factor: The century-old heritage house itself is grounded on the love story of its original owners -- Roque and Rita Peredo -- who can easily inspire guests to imbibe the chill out ambiance in this side of Baguio City where it's cold every single day of the year.
Read more about Peredo's Lodging House

Peredo's Lodging House (Benguet)

San Rafael River Adventure (Bulacan)

Location: The semi-bucolic terrain of San Rafael, next to Angat River (less than 2 hours away from Metro Manila)
Recommended Room: The Glass House that's equipped with blinds for privacy at night
Couple Factor: The accommodation has its own front porch that looks out into a lush garden of various colors, away from other nearby Glass Houses for privacy. Indoors, keeping the blinds lifted lets the outdoor scenery in. It's just a stroll away from the river-view infinity pool of the resort.
Read more about San Rafael River Adventure

San Rafael River Adventure (Bulacan)

San Antonio Resort (Capiz)

Location: A few steps away from Baybay Beach in Roxas City
Recommended Room: Either the Lagoon Suite or the Garden Suite
Couple Factor: The resort has all the basic amenities of a Double A-classified resort which is perfect for couples who want privacy. Boating at the lagoon is a great chance for bonding moments.
Read more about San Antonio Resort

San Antonio Resort (Capiz)

Casa Alegria (Cavite)

Location: Along the winding Ligaya Drive of Tagaytay City
Recommended Room: The Veranda Room
Couple Factor: The room offers couples an expansive view of Taal Volcano and Taal Lake right from their bed thanks to the room's glass walls. It has a private veranda where they can take their breakfast in the morning with the same view or simply chill out in at night to gaze at the star-studded sky.
Read more about Casa Alegria

Casa Alegria (Cavite)

Playa Tropical (Ilocos Norte)

Location: The town of Currimao, just before Laoag City (if you're coming from Vigan)
Recommended Room: Any of its hotel rooms will do since they're all spacious and are inclusive of access to the infinity pool.
Couple Factor: The resort is a popular events place for weddings, so you can expect its well manicured garden to appeal to such a similar sensibility.
Read more about Playa Tropical

Playa Tropical (Ilocos Norte)

Thunderbird Poro Point (La Union)

Location: The Poro Point Freeport Zone of San Fernando City
Recommended Room: The Deluxe Room is the most affordable at this 5-star resort.
Couple Factor: The resort aesthetic is Santorini-inspired, so couples can fantasize about leaving the Philippines without actually doing so.
Read more about Thunderbird Poro Point

Thunderbird Poro Point (La Union)

Sitio De Amor (Laguna)

Location: At a scenic and breezy terrain of San Pablo City
Recommended Room: The Tree House which has a bathtub, its own kitchen, and balcony
Couple Factor: The Tree House is recommended for couples because of its location -- privately tucked away past the cliff and next to a stream. What's more, the resort has a sprawling garden and a charming infinity pool.
Read more about Sitio De Amor

Sitio De Amor (Laguna)

Marikit-Na Beach Resort (Marinduque)

Location: The shoreline of Sta. Cruz's Maniwaya Island where the vanishing Palad Sandbar is located
Recommended Room: The sea-view guestroom on the left wing of the villa
Couple Factor: The whole villa may be at the beachfront of Maniwaya Island but its hardwood interior evokes cabin-in-the-woods which is good for snuggling indoors. The beach is just a few steps away anyway. Bonus: the villa has an in-house cinema which is good for movie-viewing before bedtime.
Read more about Marikit-Na Beach Resort

Marikit-Na Beach Resort (Marinduque)

Jamont Hotel (Negros Occidental)

Location: The poblacion of Sipalay City, 3 hours from the provincial capital of Bacolod City
Recommended Room: The La Veranda Suite that has an expansive view of the beachfront
Couple Factor: The spacious room has a large indoor Jacuzzi for private soaks. The swimming pool and the beach are just a stroll away from the room.
Read more about Jamont Hotel

Jamont Hotel (Negros Occidental)

Widus Hotel & Casino (Pampanga)

Location: At the Clark Freeport Zone, 7 minutes away from Clark International Airport
Recommended Room: The One Bedroom Suite that has a bathtub
Couple Factor: It's classified as a Deluxe Class Hotel which gives it a reliable distinction for romantic guests in Pampanga.
Read more about Widus Hotel & Casino

Widus Hotel & Casino

Out of The Blue (Oriental Mindoro)

Location: In Little La Laguna of Sabang, Puerto Galera
Recommended Room: The spacious poolside Spa Suite that has an indoor Jacuzzi
Couple Factor: The resort is multi-tiered which makes for an interesting stroll for couples. It has a couple of swimming pools in different levels so semi-private soaks are possible.
Read more about Out of The Blue

Out of The Blue (Oriental Mindoro)

G Beach Resort (Pangasinan)

Location: At the beachfront of the less tourist-thronged shoreline of Patar Beach in Bolinao
Recommended Room: Any of the villa's available rooms
Couple Factor: The resort is not big so the exclusive charm is palpable especially if the guests are the only ones booked for the day. As much as the infinity pool is a great place to unwind for couples, the beach is equally spectacular to spend unforgettable unplugged moments.
Read more about G Beach Resort

G Beach Resort (Pangasinan)

Samkara Restaurant & Garden Resort (Quezon Province)

Location: At the border of Lubcan, next to the town of Majayjay (Laguna)
Recommended Room: The so-called Mayaw Room is awesome for couples for its modern interiors
Couple Factor: The resort has its own F&B facility which is good for couples who don't want to fuss about cooking their meals for an overnight stay. Plus, it has parking space. In the middle of the day, they can have a cool soak at the spring water pool of the resort that looks into views of lush rice fields.
Read more about Samkara Restaurant & Garden Resort

Samkara Restaurant & Garden Resort (Quezon Province)

Momarco Resort (Rizal)

Location: At the highly vegetated village of Aldea in Tanay
Recommended Room: The modern Casita that's tucked away from the resort hotel and lobby for privacy
Couple Factor: The area is chilly in the morning and always promises a view of a rainbow enough to make couples promise each other to be faithful.
Read more about Momarco Resort

Momarco Resort (Rizal)

Siama Hotel (Sorsogon)

Location: In the middle of a coconut plantation at the hamlet of San Lorenzo in Sorsogon City
Recommended Room: No room is similar at Siama so guests are bound to return with anticipation for each one per revisit
Couple Factor: There's no television or radio inside the guestrooms which makes for a perfect unplugged getaway for two. The food is sensational at its communal dining area and the lap pool is totally Instagram-worthy.
Read more about Siama Hotel

Siama Hotel (Sorsogon)

B O N D I N G G A L O R E

When I was a kid, the trend among Philippine households was owning a rest house in an out-of-town location. It was a pricey investment that only the rich could afford. As I grew up, local tourism became attainable for middle-class families like mine. More resorts and hotels opened in desirable towns which made weekend getaways affordable for more Filipinos. Finally, groups of people can enjoy urban escapes more often.

Unfortunately, not all establishments are kid-friendly. There are some destinations that require risks in traveling. It follows that an intrepid itinerary usually demands more maturity and tagging along minors can sometimes be a terrible burden. What you originally plan as an enjoyable vacation can easily become your worst nightmare.

To ensure that you bring your family to a reliable resort or hotel that definitely seals off bonding moments sans the headaches, I've rounded up 20 of them -- alphabetized according to their respective provincial locations -- that I've tested for your convenience:

Discovery Shores (Aklan)

Location: At the beachfront of the less tourist-thronged Boat Station 1 of Boracay's White Beach
Family Factor: Most adults can stand the unexpected delays in boat transfer between a 50-minute plane ride and a few minutes of commute at the island of Boracay to reach a booked resort. However, even adults have shown contempt online about the ridiculous journey to one's target destination. I have personally gone through something similar, but I managed to charge it to experience. As a result, my third visit of the island was handled by the exemplary staff of Discovery Shores from my arrival at the airport to the necessary check-in at the resort and back. My verdict? Simply flawless. I appreciated that my co-travelers' son enjoyed a cupcake-making class at the resort while they had a personal time for themselves. If I was a kid during the whole shebang, I'd be less cranky.
Read more about Discovery Shores

Discovery Shores Boracay (Aklan)

Microtel By Wyndham Boracay (Aklan)

Location: At the beachfront of Diniwid Beach, the laid-back shoreline of Boracay (away from the crowded Stations 1, 2, and 3)
Family Factor: The Microtel brand of hospitality is consistent in all of its branches worldwide. Staff members are always courteous and kids are treated as little people. This one in Boracay is no different. As I've noticed during my last visit of the hotel-resort, there were a few number of guests with children in tow which makes this side of the island truly family-friendly.
Read more about Microtel By Wyndham Boracay

Microtel By Wyndham Boracay (Aklan)

Casa Basilisa Resort (Albay)

Location: At a breezy enclave of the Bicol Peninsula in Albay’s town of Guinobatan
Family Factor: The resort looks like it was designed for honeymooners at first glance, but I determined during my overnight stay there that the place is also sensational for guests with kids. Its swimming pool alone is a treat for the young ones.
Read more about Casa Basilisa Resort

Casa Basilisa Resort (Albay)

Costa Pacifica (Aurora)

Location: The provincial capital of Baler, roughly 143 miles northeast of Manila via a mountain pass that's accessible by bus and private vehicle
Family Factor: Its location in Aurora may be an adventure spot for surfers, but the resort has swimming pools that are kid-friendly and lukewarm all year-round. The presence of tasty dishes at its reliable restaurant can also keep the little ones from having less hissy fits.
Read more about Costa Pacifica

Costa Pacifica (Aurora)

Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar (Bataan)

Location: In Bagac, past the Filipino-Japanese Friendship Shrine (a worthy side trip for kids)
Family Factor: Ancestral house purists frown upon the presence of this resort in Bataan because of various issues with heritage upkeep, but I've determined it to be a great amusement facility for children to learn about appreciation for the old Philippines in an interesting way. Who better to take them there than their parents, right? And with all of them there having a day tour of the premises, they can stay for the night at a cozy hotel room that's designed with the same vintage aesthetic. Plus, the place has a charming batis-inspired pool for children to frolic in. Adults who want the hardcore heritage education can visit Taal, Silay City, and Vigan.
Read more about Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar

Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar (Bataan)

Anilao Tanlak Beach Resort (Batangas)

Location: In Mabini's coastal village of Anilao, 73 miles south of Metro Manila, less than an hour away from the Batangas Port
Family Factor: You'd be surprised outside the resort because the eye-candy layout shown below is nowhere like the establishment's nondescript facade. The magic happens the moment you step inside the property. The resort makes up for design what it lacks in space. If my parents took me there decades ago, I'd be one cheerful kid! What's more, the place has its own F&B facility for memorable meals.
Read more about Anilao Tanlak Beach Resort

Anilao Tanlak Beach Resort (Batangas)

La Virginia Leisure Park and Amusement Resort (Batangas)

Location: At a cliff-side terrain of a town in Batangas called Mataas Na Kahoy
Family Factor: Senior citizens will have a challenging time tackling the multi-tiered premises of this resort, but children and teenagers will definitely find its eclectic aesthetic attractive. It has enough swimming pools for large group of guests and it has features like the Tree House where they can view the whole property. Exciting activities like riding the zip line or getting on the Segway can make young guests busy while their parents get soothing treatments at the resort's in-house spa.
Read more about La Virginia Leisure Park and Amusement Resort

La Virginia Leisure Park and Amusement Resort (Batangas)

Baguio GM Apartel (Benguet)

Location: At a quaint village of lower Scout Barrio (next to Camp John Hay) in Baguio City
Family Factor: The problem with big hotels in Baguio City is that once a family enters, each member goes on Wi-Fi mode. Worse, kids can end up venturing on their own at the lobby and other areas of the hotel unattended. With an apartel stay like at Baguio GM Apartel, the ambiance is cozy and everyone's presence is easy to spot. It's like home away from home. Its fully-furnished loft-type Family Room is highly recommended for being spacious. Dad can stock up on supplies from the market and mom can cook. Plus, it's located at the third floor of the structure, giving guests a private balcony view of the nearby Camp John Hay and the rest of the city.
Read more about Baguio GM Apartel

Baguio GM Apartel (Benguet)

San Rafael River Adventure (Bulacan)

Location: The semi-bucolic terrain of San Rafael, less than 2 hours away from Metro Manila
Family Factor: The resort is a fantastic place to instill the appreciation of nature in children because it is tree-filled and located next to Angat River. Family members can go boating, ride the Jet Ski or kayak, and even board the meal-equipped river cruise. For chilling out, it has a swimming pool that looks out into the river for a scenic view of more natural details.
Read more about San Rafael River Adventure

San Rafael River Adventure (Bulacan)

Talon Adventure Park (Capiz)

Location: At a cove in Roxas City's village of Talon, 15 minutes away from the city plaza
Family Factor: The beachfront of the 200-hectare resort is pleasant to relax in. However, adventurous young ones can always try its 160-meter dual cable zip line ride that offers great views of the resort's stretch.
Read more about Talon Adventure Park

Talon Adventure Park (Capiz)

88 Hot Spring (Laguna)

Location: In Calamba, less than two hours away from Metro Manila
Family Factor: This hot spring resort is a great way to introduce kids to Korean culture without leaving the Philippines because the place is owned by a Korean. Dishes and snacks at its restaurant are also Korean-inspired.
Read more about 88 Hot Spring

88 Hot Spring (Laguna)

Dona Jovita Garden Resort (Laguna)

Location: At a highly vegetated space of Calamba, less than two hours away from Metro Manila
Family Factor: Most resorts in Calamba don't have gardens of flowers and trees like this one has. There are several swimming pools to choose from and kids can have a great time running around at the soccer field fronting the property. The good news for guests with cars is that it has enough parking spaces.
Read more about Dona Jovita Garden Resort

Dona Jovita Garden Resort (Laguna)

Ace Hotel & Suites (Metro Manila)

Location: In Pasig City's district of Kapitolyo
Family Factor: With the congestion of people and activities, Metro Manila is only capable of having high-rise hotels that have swimming pools. In Pasig City though, there's Ace Hotel & Suites which allows guests access to its water spa, making the whole establishment somewhat like a resort in the city. It also has a great restaurant called Sky Garden.
Read more about Ace Hotel & Suites

Ace Hotel & Suites (Metro Manila)

Takatuka Lodge Beach and Dive Resort (Negros Occidental)

Location: At the beachfront of the laid-back Sugar Beach of Sipalay City
Family Factor: No eclectic room is the same in this beach resort. Each one is not just unique. The theme per room is also mind-boggling at first sight. For instance, there's a cave-themed room that's not fully terrestrial for having fixtures that still show modern sensibilities. What's common in all of the rooms is the use of recycled materials, making the place a great way to introduce the art of recycling to young people.
Read more about Takatuka Lodge Beach and Dive Resort

Takatuka Lodge Beach and Dive Resort (Negros Occidental)

Coco Beach (Oriental Mindoro)

Location: At a secluded shoreline of Puerto Galera
Family Factor: For guests' splendid convenience, the resort offers a travel package that includes a smooth air conditioned van pick-up from Metro Manila all the way to a private port in Batangas and a boat transfer to the beachfront of the resort. The package also includes a free ride of a charming jeepney cable car and free boat tour of the distant Agas Beach. Just take note that the resort frequently receives female European guests who sometimes sunbathe topless. In any case, keep dad blindfolded and the kids busy at the pool!
Read more about Coco Beach

Coco Beach (Oriental Mindoro)

Abe's Farm (Pampanga)

Location: At the foothills of Mt. Arayat in the town of Magalang
Family Factor: The resort has the complete charm of a swimming pool, a restaurant, access to spa services and a side trip to an art museum (ancestral house) that's a stroll away from the resort facilities within the property. It's ideal for newly-wed couples, but those with kids in tow can also find the place sensational for bonding moments and communing with nature.
Read more about Abe's Farm

Abe's Farm (Pampanga)

El Puerto Marina Beach Resort & Spa (Pangasinan)

Location: In the coastal village of Pangapisan, Lingayen
Family Factor: Apart from having an F&B facility that offers fantastic Filipino dishes, the resort is worth the visit for its swimming pool facilities. Lingayen Beach is just a stroll away for those who want something natural.
Read more about El Puerto Marina Beach Resort & Spa

El Puerto Marina Beach Resort & Spa (Pangasinan)

Graceland Estates and Country Club (Quezon Province)

Location: In breezy Tayabas City
Family Factor: The sprawling 22-hectare property boasts of well-rounded facilities for families from a lagoon for boating, lanes for biking, a golf course, a children's playground and an outdoor wall climbing terrain among others. It also has its own restaurant that offers inventive local dishes and more.
Read more about Graceland Estates and Country Club

Graceland Estates and Country Club (Quezon Province)

Momarco Resort (Rizal)

Location: At the highly vegetated village of Aldea in Tanay
Family Factor: The resort's charm goes beyond its obvious banner amenities. A close inspection via a stroll enabled me to see a tennis and basketball court, a mini-zoo and koi pond, an indoor sports hall for billiards, table tennis and darts, plus an events space. It’s ideal for recreational activities that any family member can appreciate. What's more, it has a set of newly-opened hotel rooms that you won't find anywhere else in pastoral Tanay.
Read more about Momarco Resort

Momarco Resort (Rizal)

Rama International Beach Resort (Zambales)

Location: At a beachfront of Botolan, three hours away from Metro Manila
Family Factor: The beach resort has a swimming pool and access to the beach of Zambales which offers stunning sunset views.
Read more about Rama International Beach Resort

Rama International Beach Resort (Zambales)

Stephen Zarate of The Coffee Library

Ca Phe Sua Chua

H I G H L A N D

H A N G O U T

Just when you thought that BaguioCityhas become predictable, a new coffee shop recently opened its doors at the city proper, just a stroll away from the busy Session Road. It offers Italian and local Kapangan coffee flavors, but its Vietnamese-style brewed options are the ones attracting attention. Called The Coffee Library, it’s run by Stephen Zarate whose passion for the beverage had already driven him to visit Vietnam just to get everything right. The sanctuary will soon include more options from other Asian countries to fully embody the shop’s name of a library of coffee flavors. With its mix of rustic and study hall details for interiors, the brand is rendered with a fitting head start.

Kapangan Coffee Advocacy

Since the home-roasted coffee beans used for the Kapangan coffee is something that the shop is in advocacy for with the farmers of the Benguet community where they’re sourced, its availability can only rely on its demand. Such was the case during my visit with a friend a few days after New Year’s Eve. It turned out that a lot of customers ordered the flavour both for its traditional taste and affordability, leaving an unexpected gap in the supply delivery. Although that’s not much of a caveat since the town of Kapangan is just less than three hours away from BaguioCity. I was assured by the staff that it would be available the next day.

Crispy Suman A La Mode

Ca Phe Sua

Easy-To-Spot Location Behind The Cathedral

I was actually there at the new coffee shop that’s located inside the Rex Residence Hall because a friend who resides in the city invited me to check out his new favorite hangout. I dragged my tour mate from Peredo’s Lodging House to the quaint corner of General Luna Road and Upper Bonifacio Street behind the city cathedral to see what he was raving about.

It was past dinner time and even the cupcakes that my friend segued to me via SMS as a must-taste were already out of stock. I can just imagine how best-selling they must be during the daytime.

Vietnamese-Style Coffee

For my order, I followed the staff’s suggestion of the Vietnamese-style Ca Phe Sua Chua which is iced coffee (with beans sourced from Hanoi) with regular yogurt. Served on a fancy wooden tray, it looked unassuming but a sip was a bittersweet buzz of the good kind. It was anything but forgettable. Those familiar with it enjoy it by stirring the drink to get a desired blend of coffee and yogurt with every sip. After a hefty meal of chicken in another dining destination, it was exactly what my palate needed. Since I randomly have a cuppa at least twice a day, it’s seldom that I’m actually aware that I’m having one. With this specific blend, I certainly had a mouthfeel.

To retreat to a less fancy blend, my friend also had me order the flavour called Ca Phe Sua which is another authentic traditional Vietnamese coffee. It’s simply one with milk instead of the yogurt this time. Traditionally served with a phin (coffee brewer) on top of the cup, it’s supposed to taste sweet and strong with notes of nutty flavors. The coffee is ritually filtered from its chamber and made to drip (not stream through) into the cup that has sweetened condensed milk the way it’s done in Vietnam. When one is ready to enjoy the cuppa, simply stir. Others leave the milk for the end.

To test how my coffee orders tasted with a snack, I paired them off with an order of a Crispy Suman à la mode. I certainly was not expecting to have a table decorated with such orders that night in BaguioCity, but such unpredictability paid off in taste. The city can still surprise a resident, a regular tourist, and a tag-along after all.

With Jherson Jaya and friends from Baguio City

The Coffee Library

Official Facebook fan page of The Coffee Library

Address: Rex Hall, Upper Bonifacio St., Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines 2600

Phone: 0917-503-7962

Check out my other Benguet-related posts:

+ My Hiking Reverie of Mount Ulap
+ Peredo's Lodging House
+ Affordable and Modern Baguio City Apartel
+ The Bahong Rose Farm of La Trinidad

+ Taking Benguet On A Budget Part 1

+ Dining Over Spanish Dishes at Te Quiero
+ The Two Faces of Baguio City
+ Visiting The Bell House and Amphitheater
+ Mine's View Park Then and Now
+ Snacking At Choco-Late De Batirol

More Photos Below:

The Mt. Ulap Eco-Trail of Itogon

The Easter Weaving Room

V A C A T I O N

O N T H E

C H E A P

Baguio City is a home away from home for regular visitors. Although it's part of the province of Benguet, it's a world of its own. For fear of missing out on new attractions to visit in the city, some tourists tend to scope it on foot. They ultimately suffer a stressful itinerary that's wasted on epic walks. Some, however, prefer to plot their destinations aboard a vehicle to experience them in a specific set of days. Although this technique may seem easy peasy, it can leave the tourist rather oblivious of appreciating people and places instead of achieving travel bliss.

Beyond the minor issues of congestion and traffic, the city of pines can still impress a traveler. Unlike other popular tourist spots in the country, it's highly urbanized. This makes having new discoveries quite attainable. Unfortunately, residential and commercial structures have obviously been rabidly swapped for the foliage in the past three decades. This is why venturing to nearby towns can be a great idea for viewing nature.

Is it still worth escaping your familiar terrain for a whiff of chilly Baguio City? Is it also possible to make it one's base for side trips to nearby attractions?

One can choose to linger in Baguio or make quick side trips to accessible towns. The escape doesn't have to be expensive as I've ascertained in part 1 of my "Taking Benguet On A Budget" tour in 2015 when I stayed in the city and enjoyed the strawberry and rose farms of La Trinidad.

Baguio-bound aboard Victory Liner with Jherson Jaya

This 2016, I'm encouraging the appreciation of highland houses, staying in a quaint community of the city, and hiking an eco-trail in the next town of Itogon, 45 minutes away from the city proper. Along the way, like I did the last time, I tried to eat cheap without sacrificing nutrition and taste. Check out how I did it and make it as your own:

Commute Via Victory Liner

Save yourself from the hassles of taking your own car or renting one just to experience this side of Benguet by taking a commute. For those coming from Metro Manila, a Baguio-bound Victory Liner bus leaves its Cubao station every hour on a daily basis. For less than P500 per person, the air conditioned ride is cheap but comfortable for six hours with a couple of necessary stopovers for bathroom breaks.

Santa Fe Ridge in Itogon

Mt. Cloud Bookshop

Peredo's Lodging House

Peredo's Lodging House; Photography by Jherson Jaya

Stay In A Highland House Or A Value Apartel

An iconic Baguio immersion is one that includes staying the night at an American-style highland home for a nostalgia of the old city. The perfect setting for this ideal is the century-old Peredo's Lodging House. The 6-room, two-storey ancestral home of the Peredos has been cited by the National Museum as a national heritage site, making the 1915-built structure an important cultural property and treasure of the province.

Read more about Peredo's Lodging House.

If you want a more modern accommodation that doesn't break the bank, an apartel may just do the job. To avoid the tourist trap of ending up in a dingy and theft-prone inn or lodging, choose to stay at an apartel owned by long-time residents themselves. The newly-built Baguio GM Apartel is highly recommended for its fully-furnished units that allow access to a kitchenette. Its third level unit that's loft-type has its own private balcony. And since it's located at a quaint community next to Camp John Hay, there's a fantastic pine tree-filled view of the city from the common balcony.

Read more about Baguio GM Apartel.

Baguio GM Apartel

Easter Weaving

Immerse In Ethnic Culture With A Visit of Easter Weaving

The city's public market may have all the cheap finds that the province of Benguet has to offer, but it's at Easter Weaving where its ethnic culture is most palpable and you don't have to leave Baguio for it. The facility is a modern structure that started as early as 1908. On the ground floor, visitors can shop around for fabrics of various ethnic designs from Sinanbituin to Kinen-ew-inspired. At the basement is the actual weaving room where ladies are assigned in their respective textile-equipped weaving stations.

Contact Easter Weaving here.

Mt. Cloud Bookshop

Chill Out At Mt. Cloud Bookshop and The Coffee Library

For book finds in the city, it's better to patronize the neighborhood bookstore called Mt. Cloud that's located next to Casa Vallejo along Upper Session Road. Bibliophile or not, any guest can consider a step into its charming space as a break from touring the streets of the city on foot. With a selection of about 80% Filipiniana, it's also a chance to shop for artisan books and contemporary reading materials about the Cordillera Region. Being just a little more than 5 years old, the independent bookshop is considered a thought sanctuary in the city for hosting book launches of local authors.

Contact Mt. Cloud Bookshop here.

As the fog descends on the city, you can make a detour to a coffee shop before heading back to your booked accommodation. The newest one in Baguio is called The Coffee Library and it's located behind the cathedral, inside the Rex Residence Hall at the corner of General Luna Road and Upper Bonifacio Street. What it offers is something different from the typical Western brew. Customers have been raving about its roster of Italian, Vietnamese, and the local Kapangan blends.

Read more about The Coffee Library.

The Coffee Library

The Mt. Ulap Eco-Trail

The iconic Gungal Rock of the Mt. Ulap Eco-Trail

Have A Day Hike of The Mt. Ulap Eco-Trail In Itogon

If La Trinidad's strawberry and flower farms are not your type of Benguet side trips from Baguio, the next town of Itogon has Santa Fe Ridge which offers tourists a more intrepid experience. A day hike of the Mt. Ulap Eco-Trail is possible because it's just a jeepney ride away from the city proper. Experienced hikers can tackle trail in as short as three hours. Beginners are expected to breeze through it in three hours more. This means that if you leave Baguio at 7:00am, there's a big chance you can still return at 5:00pm to have a late afternoon snack at Choco-late De Batirol in Camp John Hay or a delicious early dinner of Lechon Mami at Sab-atan Restaurant.

Read more about the Mt. Ulap Eco-Trail.

Late afternoon snack at Choco-late De Batirol

Lechon Mami at Sab-atan Restaurant

Dinner at 50s Diner

Have A Hefty Meal At 50s Diner

The city has a couple of 50s Diner branches and both serve the same quality of American-style treats. For a reasonable price, each order comes in a hefty serving like my order of the so-called Grandma's Fried Chicken which set me back for P140 only. With four pieces of deep fried chicken in a set, it could have easily satisfied two customers.

With so much to experience in Baguio City, you don't have to schedule a visit to coincide with the Panagbenga Festival. Any day in the city of pines can be a terrific vacation that you can set out for on your own pace and time.

More Photos Below:

The scene at 50s Diner

Visiting Mt. Cloud Bookshop

Chilling at the front porch of Peredo's Lodging House

Choco-late De Batirol

At the summit of Mt. Ulap

R E L A X A T T H E I S L A N D

Experience the height of relaxation at the Upperhouse Spa, The District Boracay’s newest facility which officially opened last December 15, 2015. Indulge in various treatments that are designed to promote luxurious island pampering and deep relaxation. Its invigorating signature Upperhouse massage features Hawaiian Lomi Lomi strokes.

A special introductory offer which is 40% off the regular rate may be availed from January to March for all services such as massage, scrubs, and spa indulgences. All guests with suite bookings are also entitled to a complimentary 30-minute massage sampler.

Aside from the spa, The District Boracay boasts of its contemporary-chic and minimalist design, 48 well-appointed rooms and suites, 15-sqm long lap pool with jacuzzi, a conference facility that can accommodate up to 80 persons, a bar and events roof deck overlooking the famous Boracay sunset, serviced beach loungers, prime beachfront location, and its own brand of unrivaled service.

The resort also operates 2 restaurants - Star Lounge that is made famous for serving the Best Brunch Buffet in Boracay, and Caruso Ristorante Italiano which raised the bar for Italian cuisine in the whole island.

Read more about The District Boracay here.

The District Boracay

Official website of The District Boracay

Address: Station 2, Barangay Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines 5608
Phone: (02) 2345917or (02) 2349058
Mobile: 0917-819-7546
Email: reservations@thedistrictboracay.com

Pasig City Museum

Plaza Rizal scenery

T R A V E L

R E W I N D

A river by its namesake runs through the city of Pasig. Like the body of water flowing between Laguna Lake and Manila Bay, it's caught in the grip of time -- the past and the future. At a glance in the present, it's no longer what it used to be. After decades of rapid commercialization, the scenery of rice paddies at the city proper has been replaced by man-made structures. With natural irrigation from the winding stream of the so-called Bitukang Manok gone, what was a significant witness to the assembly of a fleet of Kaitpuneros in May of 1896 is nothing but a faint creek now.What remains of days gone by are a few old houses that remind us how local life was like when the river was still pristine.

Cine Victoria and Concepcion Mansion

A stroll at the city proper will show any visitor the nostalgia of old Pasig when it was still a town. Scattered in separate streets are a few remnants of what can be considered heritage of the past. What used to be Cine Victoria that opened in 1927 ceased regular operation as a modern Victoria Theater in the '80s. The original structure of the theater is no longer there but almost across it is where the three-storey Concepcion Mansion stands in all its pre-war design glory. Now called Pasig City Museum, the Spanish-Baroque structure was once home to Don Fortunato Concepcion, a former mayor of the old town. It was designed by Architect Felizardo Dimanlig and completed in 1937.

Bitukang Manok

(left) Marker of Katipunan General Valentin Cruz; (right) Bitukang Manok

Plaza Rizal

Pasig City Museum

Library and Museum In One

For a kid growing up in the '80s as a kumbento boy of Pasig Catholic College (a parochial school that started exclusively for boys), I had a chance to visit the terra-cotta roofed mansion when it was still being run as both a library and museum. Every chance to do a research there was also a memorable museum visit because displayed on its walls were old paintings depicting what the town looked like before the Philippine Revolution. It was there where I saw one depicting a train railway at the spot where Dr. Sixto Antonio Avenue starts from the old Immaculate Conception Cathedral. My favorite spot there was the azotea where I once tested my dad's malfunctioning SLR camera.

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Officially A City

While enrolled at the University of Santo Tomas, I saw less of Pasig on a daily basis because attending college in Manila meant that I had to spend most of my days there. It was in the same period when the town officially became a city.

Changes In The Landscape

From that time on, more changes -- both good and bad -- happened in the area. Large commercial establishments started to open in different spots. The sprawling public market called Mutya Ng Pasig got renovated and became more appealing to residents than the distant Divisoria. The post office was transferred to another location, leaving the old structure it once occupied unattended for years.

The original location of Pasig City's postal office

An old house along Dr. Sixto Antonio Avenue

Bitukang Manok

An old house near Parancillo

The Most Significant Change

What I consider to be the most significant change is that of the Bitukang Manok. A portion of it that got covered for decades to become a road was dug up and transformed back as an open creek with charming pathways on both sides. A marker for a Katipunan general named Valentin Cruz was erected at the site nearby. Called the Asamblea Magna or mass meeting site, it was where the notable resident of Barangay San Nicolas welcomed Andres Bonifacio and his group of more than 300 Katipuneros one rainy night. The fateful meeting would soon lead to the Pasig resident's exile in the Marianas and the assassination of Bonifacio who, according to Sentro Sentenaryo Sa Pasig's head convenor was not only vilified in early high society but was also tortured to bleed to death atop Mount Buntis. It's a historical landmark for the night when the Philippine Revolution was first fully conceived in secret, giving the street where I used to do house-to-house Christmas caroling as a kid a meaningful significance.

Bahay Na Tisa

A Temporary Gloom For Old Houses

There were even whispers about making a major road that would start at Plaza Rizal (formerly called Plaza de la Paz) to connect to a new bridge over Pasig River. This was, of course, to the detriment of local residents because it would mean widening the narrow P. Gomez Street which spans a section of the city where a few old houses are located. The rumor persisted for several years until people finally got tired of hearing about it.

Bahay Na Tisa

The Future of The Bahay Na Tisa

At that time, it meant the end for Bahay Na Tisa, the city's oldest standing bahay na bato structure. Had the plan been pursued, the charming street would no longer show proof of memories that residents like me have of the area. It was at the 1850-built Bahay Na Tisa where I had constant choir practices as a kid under the musical tutelage of Dr. Tech whose relatives (seven generations of them from Don Cecilio Tech y Cabrera) happen to own the property. For whatever reason, the plan did not materialize and the whispers stopped. Soon, the Bagong Ilog-Sta. Rosa Bridge was constructed instead.

Raymundo Residence

The Raymundo Residence Behind The Plaza

Also located along the same street is what residents refer to as the Raymundo residence which used to house El Pasig, a bakery that rivaled Dimas-Alang for baked goods domination in the area for decades. The bakery is no longer there but the same ground floor has been renovated with the second floor being kept intact. A schoolmate used to stay upstairs and I remember having to tackle the ground floor when the bakery got closed for good. We would kill time after school surrounded by antique decors, an old grand piano, and the prevailing smell of unbleached muslin cloth. From the old structure's window, the view of the city museum, cathedral, and plaza can be seen all at the same time.

Raymundo Residence view from Plaza Rizal

Dimas-Alang

The Enduring Dimas-Alang

For its part in the whole changing scenery, Dimas-Alang endured in its location along the busy Mabini Street for being accessible to residents who continually depend on the reliable pandesal for breakfast and afternoon snack. Put up by Ambrosio Lozada in 1919, the bakery remained the same as it was before World War II. Unknown to many residents, though, the second floor was witness to the formative years of violin virtuoso Carmencita Lozada, Ambrosio's daughter. These days, Carmencita's younger brother, Manolo, is the one looking after the business and the house itself. Perhaps, there will come a time when the bakery will find it proper to have the music of the internationally known violinist played in the early hours of every morning for the young generation of Pasiguenos to discover her musical buoyancy that enthralled Europe from the '60s to the '90s.

Cine Victoria (Pasig City Museum)

Like any city undergoing transformation, Pasig can only go as far as its reach. Anywhere beyond it can spell ruin. Any attempt to step back and appreciate the past, however distracting, is essential. And whatever needs to be done to protect enduring treasures must be done today and not be put off for tomorrow.

Where To Eat Out In Pasig City?

Check out my compilation of interesting dining destinations in Pasig City here.

Plaza Rizal

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

(top) My uncles in the late '70s, taking a piss at the site where ULTRA is now is located;
(bottom) My grade school batch graduation -- Pasig Catholic College

Colayo Beach

A local fisherman at Colayo Beach

T R O P I C A L

E S C A P E

It takes endless months of drudgery in front of the computer to dull one's senses, but a simple ocean view can easily bring a person back to life. With the Philippines as target, one can't miss. It offers a lot of beach destinations for being an archipelago anyway. Like a showcase talent, it is its main draw. Then you meet locals at the shore and you discover the heart of the attraction. For others, it's just a side trip to get bronzed before another destination. Regardless of the intention, securing a spot of paradise is easy.

The chief hurdle to having a beach getaway is bad weather. This is why summer is always the preferred season to book one. As I've tested, though, there are destinations that look better on a good day even in the rainy season. There's always that gap between thunderstorms when the sky clears out and sunshine hits the beach in a very fascinating way. The sand has more character and the waves are more dramatic. Plus, there's a great chance that you'll end up strolling in your lonesome for a crowd-free selfie. Also, it's more likely that you'll book a resort room for an affordable rate.

Here are some beach destinations that I've tested to be sensational for sunbathing or those quick cerulean soaks even on a non-summer schedule:

A young local at play at Colayo Beach

A view of a passing banca from a rock formation at Colayo Beach

Colayo Beach
Location: Bani, Pangasinan
Getaway Factor: Not all beaches are sandy. Some are coral like this one that's found at the end of the Navalta-Oduca Road in the town of Bani. It's even accessible on foot from the shoreline of the next village of Patar where most beach-goers hie off to in Pangasinan. The only ones to be seen here are local fishermen and residents of Colayo who seem to enjoy the serene coral beach ambiance sans the throng of sunbathing tourists. Tip: For your own safety, it's essential that you wear a pair of aqua shoes or slippers when tackling this rock-studded coast.
Resort To Book: (see the next entry about Patar Beach)
What Aqua Shoes To Wear:Atunas

Patar Beach in front of G Beach Resort

The view of Patar Beach from atop a rock formation

Patar Beach
Location: Bolinao, Pangasinan
Getaway Factor: Scared of boat transfers but craving to have a whiff of sea breeze? Patar is a coastal village that has a good balance of coral and sandy shoreline which is accessible by land. It's a favorite beach getaway by local tourists in Benguet and other neighboring provinces as they prefer its laid-back character over the surfing scene of La Union beaches.
Resort To Book: G Beach Resort
Read more about Patar Beach.

Subic Beach

Subic Beach scenery

Subic Beach
Location: Matnog, Sorsogon (15-minute boat ride from the mainland)
Getaway Factor: For every default destination like Boracay, there's an alternative one. And it's considered to be alternative for a good reason -- it has less commercial gloss. What it lacks in accessible cafes and island eateries, it makes up for nature itself. What does it really look like on site? Imagine Boracay's White Beach and swap the swath of resorts with nothing but vegetation. It's almost the same length of stretch anyway. Fortunately, it has a lone beach resort that operates for rustic guest dwellings.
Resort To Book: Holy Trinity Beach Resort
Read more about Subic Beach

Guinanayan Island

The calm waters at the beach of Guinanayan Island

Guinanayan Island
Location: Rapu-Rapu, Albay (2-hour boat ride from Bacacay Port)
Getaway Factor: Part of the journey to this island paradise of Albay is the scenic boat ride. It will let you traverse an area called Nagtapis which is rumored to be inhabited by mermaids. An up close view of Monkey Island (an islet dwelling of monkeys) is also possible. Guinanayan Island is gifted with a calm shore in most pleasant days, making it kid-friendly for not having dramatic waves. Areas inland (close to the beachfront) are being zoned for a planned set of villas for overnight stays as the place is currently best experienced as part of an island tour.
Resort To Book: Official Facebook account
Read more about Guinanayan Island

Sugar Beach

The fine sugar-like sand of Sugar Beach

Sugar Beach
Location: Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
Getaway Factor: Formerly called Langub Beach (the term means cave in Hiligaynon), the long stretch of fine sugar-like sandy beach is separated by a stream from the rest of Sipalay City, so it's accessible via a short banca crossing or a chartered boat ride from the poblacion beach. It's a beach getaway that most foreigners coming from Bacolod and Dumaguete prefer over Boracay because of its laid-back scene.
Resort To Book: Takatuka Lodge Beach and Dive Resort
Read more about Sugar Beach

The fine brown sand of Sablang Beach

The scenery inland a few steps from the beachfront of Sablang Beach -- perfect for tent-pitching

Sablang Beach
Location: General Nakar, Quezon Province
Getaway Factor: This side of the province of Quezon is popular for two things -- NPA rebel-army misfires and a rumored aswang resident that attends Catholic mass. Both have deterred tourist arrivals and equipped existing beach resorts with barbwire for fence. What remains is an unspoiled stretch of fine brown sand that's exotic to behold against the mist produced from the powerful waves of the Pacific Ocean. There's plenty of space at the beachfront to pitch your tent for camping and you don't have to pay anyone for it.
Resort To Book: Astrera Beach Resort
Read more about Sablang Beach

Maniwaya Island

Arriving at the Palad Sandbar of Maniwaya Island

Maniwaya Island
Location: Sta. Cruz, Marinduque
Getaway Factor: Marinduque may be popular for its annual Moriones Festival, but it also has accessible natural attractions. When you're visiting the island province before or after the holy week, it's best to schedule an overnight stay at Maniwaya Island that's a 40-minute boat ride away from Sta. Cruz's Buyabod Port. The island has a lot of beach spots to cater to your sun-kissed moment. Highly recommended is a side trip to the vanishing Palad Sandbar.
Resort To Book: Marikit-Na Beach Resort
Read more about Maniwaya Island

Agas Beach

The clear waters of Agas Beach

Agas Beach
Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro
Getaway Factor: Agas Beach is actually a short stretch in Puerto Galera where chartered boats dock in between one's booked beach resort and the coral reef area. However, that fact did not prevent me from enjoying my quick break there because anything that's secluded strikes a good beach vibe for me.
Resort To Book: Coco Beach
Read more about Agas Beach

Local kids at play at the port at Cagbalete Island

A natural pool at the vanishing Bonsai Islet of Cagbalete Island

Cagbalete Island
Location: Mauban, Quezon Province
Getaway Factor: A lot of local tourists allude to the Boracay of the '80s when referring to this destination which means that it's less of a party-scene and more laid-back. It has enough beach resorts but their owners are related to each other because there's still a small community residing at the island. Its fine white sand is not just the attraction of the place. It also has a vanishing islet that offers natural pools in the middle of the day (during low tide), a mangrove, and a vanishing sandbar.
Resort To Book: Dona Choleng Camping Resort
Read more about Cagbelete Island

San Miguel Island

San Miguel Island
Location: Tabaco City, Albay (30-minute boat ride from the Tabaco City Port)
Getaway Factor: A rock-studded beach that's a stroll away from rolling hills? That's something that tourists can enjoy at San Miguel Island. In between are cliff-side views of the distant Mayon Volcano on a good day.
Resort To Book: Via Hotel Fina
Read more about San Miguel Island

Pancian Beach

Pancian Beach
Location: Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
Getaway Factor: The main attraction of this beach facing Pasaleng Bay is the spot of convergence of the sea and Barangay Pancian's river. This beach spot in Pagudpud is unlike Maira-ira Beach in the same shoreline of Ilocos Norte in that it's doesn't offer views of the fascinating blue lagoon, but it has a remote quality that lures backpackers who love to simply go unplugged.
Resort To Book: Pannzian Beach Resort
Read more about Pancian Beach

Sunset at Diniwid Beach

Diniwid Beach scenery

Dinidiwd Beach
Location: Boracay, Aklan
Getaway Factor: Boracay always has a little something for every beach lover. Should you have a predilection for laid-back beach getaways, White Beach won't work for you. Diniwid Beach, however, will. It's just a fancy stroll away from Boat Station 1 of the island where most foreigners prefer to escape when booked at a resort inland. The good thing is that there are a few beachfront resorts in the area that offer distinctive views -- sandy and cliff-side.
Resort To Book: Microtel By Wyndham-Boracay
Read more about Diniwid Beach

Olotayan Island

The beachfront of Olotayan Island where the guest cottages are

Olotayan Island
Location: Roxas City, Capiz
Getaway Factor: When visiting Roxas City for a chance at seafood degustation, it's also best to check out where the catch comes from. Apart from dining at Baybay Beach, you can visit the nearby Olotayan Island where villagers are known to fish for a living. The island village is also tranquil enough for an overnight stay as it has rustic cottages for guests.
Hotel To Book: ViaRoxas President's Inn
Read more about Olotayan Island

Resorts Recommended For Family Getaways:

Check out kid-friendly resorts here.

Planning to travel more in 2016? The Discovery Leisure Company, Inc. (TDLCI) can fulfill every getaway desire on your bucket list. With its 2016 theme “A World of Discovery,” the homegrown hospitality group aims to inspire your wanderlust with plush accommodations and creative cuisine in its celebrated hotels and resorts.

To help you decide, here’s a rundown of insider tips and limited-time promotions exclusively offered at the 23rd PTAA Travel Tour Expo from 5 to 7 February 2016 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Make the most of a long weekend and plan a visit to either the Ortigas or Makati business districts for some retail therapy, foodie adventures and relaxing stays.

Discovery Suites Ortigas

Discovery Suites Ortigas

At the heart of the Ortigas Business District, choose to stay at Discovery Suites, a favorite choice for vacationers looking for a stress-free respite in the city, replete with a gym, pool and a kids’ playroom. The hotel is within walking distance from SM Megamall, the third largest mall in the world, and is home to the multi-awarded steak restaurant 22 Prime. Special Suite Deal packages are on offer at the expo starting at PHP 4,000++ inclusive of High Speed Internet Access for unlimited devices, buffet breakfast for two at Restaurant 5, and cocktails at the Serendipity Lounge. Insider tip: Serendipity Lounge’s bacon-infused cocktail is a must try and truly Instagram-worthy.

Discovery Primea Makati

Discovery Primea Makati

Re-explore the Makati Central Business District with a stay at Discovery Primea. Moments away from the hotel are premium shopping malls, museums and the best parks in the city. Soak your stress away at Manila’s only Turkish Bath or lounge in the hotel’s 20-meter heated infinity pool. Special Suite Deals start at PHP 9,000++ inclusive of High Speed Internet Access for multiple devices, Gourmet Breakfast for two at Restaurant Tapenade and cocktails at the Gilarmi Lounge. Insider tip: Find the sweet spot in the poolside where the Makati Skyline is perfectly reflected on the water for a Facebook-worthy photo.

Discovery Country Suites Tagaytay

Discovery Country Suites Tagaytay

For a countryside escape, take a drive to Discovery Country Suites in Tagaytay and enjoy a relaxing view of the picturesque Taal Volcano from the outdoor Jacuzzi at the garden. Special Suite Deals start at PHP 5,100++ inclusive of Verbena Country Breakfast for two, exquisite wine and cheese at sundown, and a bedtime treat of warm milk and cookies. Insider tip: Download thousands of international magazines for free through PressReader, also available in Discovery Suites, Discovery Primea and Discovery Shores Boracay.

Discovery Shores Boracay

Discovery Shores Boracay

Enjoy the beach and re-discover the Boracay breakwater in style with a stay at Discovery Shores Boracay, a recent awardee of the 2015 World Luxury Hotel Awards. Special Suite Deals start at PHP 10,500++ inclusive of buffet breakfast for two at Sands restaurant and roundtrip Caticlan airport transfers. Insider tip: Keep the kids busy and happy with daily activities available at the Sandbox Kid’s Room. For adults, utmost relaxation and “me” time awaits at the Terra Wellness Spa.

Club Paradise Palawan

Club Paradise Palawan

For an ultimate island retreat, bask in Coron’s breathtaking sunsets in Club Paradise’s 19-hectare private island. Share your vacation time with the hatching sea turtles, island birds and sea cows. Special Suite Deals start at PHP 7,613++ inclusive of buffet breakfast for two at Ocean Restaurant. Insider tip: As the only hotel in Dimakya Island, Club Paradise likewise offers all-in packages inclusive of full meals—perfect for a stress-free island escape.

Know more about these great offershere.

About The Discovery Leisure Company, Inc.

The Discovery Leisure Company, Inc. (TDLCI) is a Filipino hospitality group that owns and manages a collection of hotels and resorts in exquisite locations around the Philippines. Its distinctive destinations inspire authentic experiences for every traveler, from Discovery Suites Ortigas, Discovery Country Suites Tagaytay, Discovery Shores Boracay, Club Paradise in Coron, Palawan, to the newly-opened Discovery Primea Makati.

The Discovery Leisure Company, Inc.’s portfolio of award-winning properties is known worldwide for its signature Filipino hospitality, marked by genuine and personalized “Service That’s All Heart”.

Official website of The Discovery Leisure Company, Inc.

S O M E T I M E S S I L L Y

Not all my travels turn out to be fantastic. Most of them are the way they are because I plan my trips before hitting the road. The few ones that turn out to be disasters don't even make it online. I charge them to experience. When a seemingly off-center review does make the light of day, it's because I rationalized what happened. I felt compelled to share a redeeming value out of the ordeal. Or I found humor in the hoopla.

An unusual adage states that humor is a reminder that no matter how high the throne one sits on, one sits on one's bottom. This is exactly why I make room for surprises in all of my getaways, brief or extended. Like regular travelers I know, I stick to an itinerary that has a breather for the unknown. When I mess up, I can learn from it or simply laugh about it.

I rarely travel on a whim -- which can be aptly called an escape -- because the last time I did, I encountered a ghostly apparition. That's been detailed in another blog post already and I've always been sensitive to my emotional state when on the road since then.

As for finding humor in a pitiful situation, it really boils down to perspective. Am I even in the right state of mind to be laughing at fatal accidents or at the sorry plight of other travelers? Of course not. What I do find funny are my moments of self-deprecation.

As I start my 2016 and three years into travel blogging, I've been able to round up at least three experiences that made me laugh at myself. Maybe you can share in my laughter as you read on.

Left Behind At The Bus Stopover

On my way to the sleepy town of Realone random weekday aboard a bus bound for Quezon Province, I decided to take advantage of the usual stopover. I normally don't get off the bus for snacks or bathroom breaks when traveling solo because I have trust issues. For whatever reason, I just did not care for my belongings and I left them on my seat to score a hotdog sandwich and a beverage at a nearby convenient store. My seatmate looked harmless enough. I figured that the bus was still visible from the store window anyway, so nothing could go wrong.

With loose change and beverage in tow, plus half a jumbo hotdog stuffed in my mouth, I ran after my bus...

Things went in the opposite direction, though, the moment I fell in line for payment. I was so hungry that I started to tear on the sandwich and sip on the drink while I made a few quick glances to where my bus was. It was still there. So far so good. Unfortunately for me, the cashier was painfully slow from receiving my payment to giving change. Next thing I knew, the bus was already leaving the parking area and making its turn back to the highway. I immediately scrambled for any loose change being counted on the counter and stormed out of that store as fast as I could. With loose change and beverage in tow, plus half a jumbo hotdog stuffed in my mouth, I ran after my bus which was like more than 20 feet away already from me. I couldn't scream because I foolishly didn't want to waste my snack, so I was groaning and grunting for an epic minute. Thankfully, a few onlookers who were on the way of the bus spotted me from the distant sidewalk and frantically hailed it for me. I turned around to see that I actually ran a good distance already before the bus stopped.

Once on board, I fell back my onto my seat and decided to give my seatmate (a stranger) the dagger stare. I was about to lose it when I realised that I still had to finish the hotdog which was still half-stuffed in my mouth. Then I had a good laugh at myself.

Sex Offer While Eating Chicken Inasal

My recent trip to Bacolod City was just a layover in Negros Occidental. I was actually more excited to visit the neighboring cities of Talisay and Silay. I was certain, though, that I'd have to eat the city's famous version of chicken inasal to really enjoy my overnight stay there.

I did not have to wait for dinner to commence with it. As early as lunch time, I was out at the Manokan Country to eat the way the locals do -- with bare hands. The dining destination was just a stroll away from the public market so there were a lot of peddlers around. I noticed that they are permitted to penetrate

I honestly felt awkward hearing the offer in the middle of the day and with chicken oil running down my fingers.

the dining areas of the strip of eateries as if they're part of the attraction. It was amusing in the beginning. I actually struck conversations with a couple of driftwood peddlers who were really rabid in reaching their quota for the day. With charm, I managed to drive them away as I enjoyed my delicious lunch.

As I was almost at the climax of my meal -- succulent pecho and all, an unassuming woman in her forties (or she looked like it) approached my table and offered sex for pay. I honestly felt awkward hearing the offer in the middle of the day and with chicken oil running down my fingers. Suddenly, my grease-smothered lips were shut tight. I just stared at the woman in disbelief until I gave her a negative nod. No one offers me sex while I'm having chicken inasal in the city of smiles!

Photography by Josua Chan

Overconfident Upon Touch Down

My first trip to Boracay in 2013 was a blog contest prize that I won from Gran Prix Hotel and Suites. It was also the second time that I was going to ride a plane to a destination. The first time was decades ago for a trip to Hong Kong. I was still a kid back then and I was unaware of the technical differences between riding one and riding the bus. For me, they were just the same. My plane ride to Boracay was my first one as an adult, so it's basically like flying for the first time.

There was nothing unusual about the whole plane ride. I was seated at the front row, facing a wall with the big, fancy logo of the airline. Like any anxious first timer, I finally got over my worries after seeing a mesmerizing view of a blanket of clouds outside my window. I was seated next to my host, a representative of the hotel and we were having a great time having small talk. When the plane started to descend, I swung back to my anxious self and feared for the worst. I was so careful not to show any sign of anxiety as not to invite criticism.

I reacted like any normal horror flick fan who just witnessed someone got slashed onscreen -- I yelped.

As soon as the plane made a touch down, I reverted to feeling alright so much so that I left my guard down which was a bad decision to do. Since the plane was an ATR 72-600 aircraft, it was bound to have a more bumpy touch down compared to other fleet variants. When our plane was finally slowing down at the runway, it made an abrupt stop and I reacted like any normal horror flick fan who just witnessed someone got slashed onscreen -- I yelped. Not only did I yelp. I also overreacted (another bad decision) by holding on to the bare wall in front of me like I was going to accidentally bump into it while strapped to my seat belt. If anything, I looked crazy and I had a good laugh out of it.

What about you? Have you had any self-deprecating travel experience that turned an irritating moment into a silly one?

Check out my other travel experiences:

+ Creepy Travel Tales
+ Why I Sketch Views In My Travels
+ Baguio City Has Two Faces

Hazelnut Benguet Coffee

H A N G O U T

I N M A K A T I

The offbeat side of Makati City -- along Makati Avenue and past Jupiter Street -- doesn't only offer red light district pleasures and cheap lodgings. Although it resembles a gilded cage of towering high-rise buildings that seem to hide this kooky enclave, the scene in the middle of it all can offer tourists an interesting neighborhood vibe. If anything, it's less intimidating. It's more upfront but off-center. Just like the newly-opened coffee shop called Art Circle Cafe (ACC) where I recently killed time one weekday for a sip of Benguet brew and a slice of delicious tart.

Beyond Gut Choice

I just stepped out of a hotel next door after a staycation and was needing something sweet to rid my lips of the taste of bacon (what I had for brunch). With a desire to stay awake, I also set out for coffee. Since Art Circle Cafe is accessible from the hotel, it was beyond gut choice. Colorful paintings greeted me from their nifty dividers where they're displayed at the center of the whole space. A few corners showed the presence of various art sculptures from different disciplines (from steel to paper).

Black & White Tart

The coffee shop interiors

Artsy Interiors

The coffee shop interiors are indicative of an art museum but the presence of chairs and tables spell out cafe. The resulting encounter of such sensibilities is an artsy sanctuary that's also a fantastic coffee and dessert hangout. Being surrounded by beautiful art makes a complementing sight for someone like me who simply wanted to chill out. For others, it can easily be a sensible meetup place for any urban rendezvous in this side of Makati.

Native Coffee Variants

Customers can order Philippine coffee variants of Sagada, Kalinga, and Benguet in just a cup for a little more than P50. I opted for an order of a Hazelnut-flavored Benguet a la French Press, a low tech brewing method for P100. A press pot can serve two full cups but I rationed mine for three like how I moderate gorging on a bag of chips.

After my recent Itogon day hike weeks ago, I was in the mood to recreate the feeling in every sip of the brew's bold and fruity flavor. There is a great reason why this native coffee has found its way to the heart of the National Capital Region and it's basically because of its fine quality that's known to be keeping the highland spirit alive for over two centuries now. Benguet's red mountain soil, combined with its cool air, is a perfect terrain for growing coffee.

Decadent Tart

I also ordered a slice of the Black & White Tart. Its attractive marbled appearance evoked decadence, but its intense chocolate flavor was what I truly loved about it. The crumby base tasted buttery. On its own, it was impressive. Paired with the Benguet Coffee, it tasted divine. I'll definitely return soon for the whole cake which costs no more than a thousand pesos.

Using My VIP Card

I learned from the staff that the first branch of Art Circle Cafe has been serving UP Diliman patrons at its Bahay Ng Alumni branch for the past few years. With a new outlet touted to open soon in Mandaluyong City, I'll be able to use my VIP card more often for discounts since it's just a 30-minute ride away from where I reside.

I've long lost interest for expensive coffee brands. After seeing where my country's native coffee is grown, I can't help but patronize our very own. And, with views of fancy art to boot at Art Circle Cafe, killing time becomes a passionate pursuit.

Art Circle Cafe

Official Facebook fan page of Art Circle Cafe

Address: G/F Y2 Hotel, Santiago Street corner Valdez and Singian Streets, Makati City, Philippines 1210
Phone: (02) 224-3000

Where else to dine out in Makati City?

+ The romantic Top of The Citi By Chef Jessie
+ The cosmopolitan Museum Cafe
+ Exquisite dishes at Restaurante Pia Y Damaso
+ City Garden Grand Hotel's Spice Cafe
+ The inventive Kabila
+ The upscale Terraz
+ Go Japanese at Saboten Philippines

More Photos Below:

The hotel roof deck, 21 floors up the Makati City skyline

Y2 Residence Hotel lobby

S T A Y I N

M A K A T I

I'm starting to fall in love with the offbeat side of Makati. It's that swath of the city that's at the fringe of the business district where foreign tourists cool down under pulsating lights. It's kooky and frenzied like my taste for life. Some refer to it as the area's entertainment district, but it has a more notorious reputation that makes it a bit complex. It achieves a touristic balance in the presence of numerous budget hotels at almost every block along Makati Avenue where unconventional dining hubs and artsy cafes thrive. One such lodging is Y2 Residence Hotel, a chic high-rise that also houses the newly-opened Art Circle Cafe and a Southeast Asian diner called Pink Panda.

Yin and Yang Concept

The area where the hotel is can initially be intimidating as it's impossible to spot a building when you're on foot or directing a clueless taxi driver along the busy Makati Avenue. This is probably why one side of Y2 Residence Hotel was designed to reflect the ancient Oriental concept of Yin and Yang (Y2) -- two opposing, but equal forces depicted in a tight embrace that exudes balance and harmony. Conceptualized by Tessa Prieto-Valdes and Tessa Alindogan, the design approach extends from the hotel lobby all the way to its rooms -- more than 160 in total -- that range from studios to three-bedroom suites.

Here are three great excuses to find your fab spot of staycation in this side of Makati:

Booked Studio Deluxe

View of the hotel from Makati Avenue

Studio Deluxe bathroom and kitchen

1. Studio Deluxe As Second Home

My booked Studio Deluxe is evident of the hotel's dramatic use of black and white tones from the bed runner, the hand-painted decorative pillows to the wall accents. To capture a colorful side of the Far East, a wall portion is accentuated with an evocative painting of a cherry blossom.

Unlike standard value hotels which normally resemble hospital wards, room types here are obviously designed to more than appeal to a weary traveler. They are meant to serve as second homes where a guest can find familiar details.

(left) The view of Makati City from the hotel; (right) Studio Deluxe

Gym at the Upper Penthouse

Gym view of the city outside

The roof deck swimming pool

2. Attractive and Functional Space

At less than 40 square meters, the room was not only attractive. I also found it to be functional for having a private balcony where I had the chance to take a gander at the Makati City skyline. The space is fully furnished with a dining area, kitchen with microwave and water heater, safety deposit box, refrigerator, cable LED television, iPod dock and IDD/NDD phone. The dark tiles in the bathroom make for memorable shower moments.

For fitness enthusiasts, the Gym at the Upper Penthouse is equipped with stationary bikes, treadmills, weight loss and muscle-toning machines. There's even enough space to do yoga!

Roof deck gazebo

Roof deck swimming pool

View from the gazebo

A charming view of the winding Pasig River from the hotel roof deck

3. Fall In Love At The Roof Deck Pool

I originally booked the overnight stay for a comfortable culmination to a complicated errand that I had in Makati City one weekday, but I ended up falling in love at the roof deck where the hotel swimming pool and gazebo are. It's there where I had the best views of the long and winding Pasig River which looked oddly magnificent 21 floors up. Up there, it's tranquil like you're in a hidden garden and not in the middle of the urban jungle that is Metro Manila.

All in all, my stay at Y2 Residence Hotel was more than pleasant. The interesting aesthetic, combined with its reliable facilities, made it pleasurable like my lust for life.

Y2 Residence Hotel

Official website of Y2 Residence Hotel

Address: 4687 Santiago Street corner Valdez and Singian Streets, Makati City, Philippines 2981
Phone: +632 224-3000
Email: reservations
@y2hotel.com

Where to dine out in Makati City?

+ Art Circle Cafe
+ Top of The Citi By Chef Jesse
+ Museum Cafe
+ Restaurante Pia Y Damaso
+ Spice Cafe
+ Kabila
+ Terraz
+ Saboten

B E H O L D

B A T A A N

After a three hour-long bus ride from Manila, I was back in historic Bataan. If previously I traced its past in its epic shrines, museums, and local dishes, this revisit consisted of the timelessness of nature. I was determined to see a different side of the province via Orani which has a quaint village called Tala. It's known to be a jump-off point for hikers and mountain climbers who want to scale Mount Natib. It's also the site of a newly-opened mountain resort called Vista Tala. The 9-hectare resort and recreational park has recently been developed to lure sybarites out of their gilded cage called urban life and make them relax in the elusive company of woodland views and whoever they tagged along for the escapade.

The Art of Being Idle

My three-day version of such a getaway included a 10-hour hike to and from Pasukulan Falls on my second day of stay, but I almost canceled it the moment I stepped inside the resort. The property is at the farthest point of the chilly community where coffee-growing is common among residents. And, since the area is on a high elevation, front yards of houses are dotted with strikingly beautiful flowers. The best part of being at Vista Tala, though, is simply experiencing the art of being idle. With stunning fog-draped mountain views to gaze at from the resort's expansive view deck or its cliff-side swimming pool, any guest can easily be disarmed of an exhaustive itinerary. Suddenly, there's no point to anticipate check-out. Almost immediately, the notion is to either extend one's blissful stay or revisit the soonest time possible.

The Tale of The Eagle

The site is also where bird-watching can be very rewarding. It's been said that a prominent eagle used to visit the place on certain weekdays before the construction of the resort was started. Back then, it was an unpaved road so no major trees were felled for the venture. When construction began, another road was put in place of the old one next to it. These days, guests can sometimes spot the visiting eagle from afar and I think at one point I actually saw it. To make a permanent reminder of that, the resort owner commissioned to have a sculpture done in its image out of marble. It's the attractive landmark that guests can now see at the entrance of the resort restaurant.

Room Types and Features

Booked at one of the decent row houses with my contributing photographer and friend, I was prepared to lose track of time. Mobile signal was intermittent and the resort currently doesn't have Wi-Fi access for guests, but I did not mind going semi-unplugged if I was surrounded by lush greenery. I found out from the resort staff that the presence of modern KTV rooms (tucked away from the guestrooms) and computer game stations somehow compensated for that. Named after different mountains in the Philippines, the row house we stayed in was called Mt. Masaraga. Its 18 square meter space of two beds is perfect for four guests who are entitled to a complimentary breakfast and access to the swimming pool. It has the basic room features that include a cable TV and bathroom with bathing essentials (soap, shampoo, lotion, etc.).

Standard Villa

Villa with Jacuzzi

The balcony of Villa with Jacuzzi

(top) Villa with Jacuzzi; (bottom) The balcony of Villa with Jacuzzi

There are other types of rooms to choose from. For couples, the rustic Nipa Hut (12 sq. meter) can work since it can accommodate a total of two guests although they can always tag along a third wheel (extra bed and complimentary breakfast). That's just going to set them back a little more than a thousand pesos in addition to the room rate. It costs less to stay there than in the row house but it has an immediate view of the distant mountainside directly from the room window.

Couples who are more elaborate with their romantic needs can settle for either the Standard Villa or Villa with Jacuzzi. Although both room types are ideal for romantic couples, they can accommodate a group of four guests (family or barkada). For privacy, both have a splendid balcony to walk out on barefoot from the bedroom past its sliding glass doors.

The view of Vista Tala from the Pasukulan Falls hike trail

(top left) Smoothies; (top right) Sinigang; (bottom) Seafood Pancit

Stunning Mountainside Views

Getting around the sloping terrain was easy because the ground has been well paved all around the resort. I noticed that there's no shortage of fancy trash bins anywhere which is indicative of the management's active effort in waste segregation. Even pockets of the resort's cliff-side have been creatively designed for leisurely strolls that allow a variety of views of the Bataan Natural Park. Its function rooms were also designed to showcase that same mountainside view which is a perfect accent to any event whether it's for celebrating a milestone or holding a typical seminar.

The Convenience of A Store and Restaurant

Since the resort's location is a good 15-minute drive from the Roman Superhighway, the presence of an in-house convenience store and restaurant is a great advantage to guests. Freshly cooked meals are available at the resort's own F&B facility and various supplies like snacks, slippers and souvenirs are accessible at a store that's a short distance away from it. As a result, the management adheres to a strict policy of not allowing guests to bring in their own food.

The swimming pool at night

Vista Tala Restaurant

The swimming pool for adults

A view of the restaurant and villas

I actually appreciated the convenience of a fully operational restaurant since the resort is on top of a high terrain. For memorable meals, my friend and I had a big bowl of Sinigang Na Liempo the first night and then a hefty basket of fried chicken with fries the following night. For snacks, I highly recommend the restaurant's delectable Seafood Pancit which I paired with a refreshing glass of mango shake.

Vista Body Spa

Guests who love to be pampered with a soothing massage can take comfort in knowing that the resort has Vista Body Spa which offers traditional room service massage for an affordable rate of P500 per hour (P250/hour for succeeding hours). This is a good deal compared to other resorts I've visited in the past that charge a thousand pesos for the same service.

The swimming pool for the kids

The restaurant and al fresco dining area

Day Tour

For residents of Bataan or those who are just passing by the province en route to another destination, a day tour is possible between 9:00am and 5:00pm. A portion of the day tour rate is consumable.

I've been to other parts of Bataan in the past but it was my first time to see a Baguio or Tagaytay-like scenery in the province where I found it pleasurable to wear my hooded sweater in the middle of the day. The village of Tala may have reminded me of such destinations but I'm certain that it has its own unique charm. Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park can very well be that remarkable distinction.

Photography by Josua Chan and Karl Ace

Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park

Official Facebook fan page of Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park

Address: Brgy. Tala, Orani, Bataan, Philippines 2112
Phone: +63 917-569-9479 or +63 999-990-4680
Email: inquiry@vistatalaresort.com

More Photos Below:

A function room

(top left) Gym; (top right) KTV; (bottom left) Game stations; (bottom right) Convenience Store

(top) Villa with Jacuzzi; (bottom) Villa balcony

Outdoor Jacuzzi

Vista Tala Restaurant

A function room

The friendly Vista Tala Restaurant staff

The row of Nipa Huts

Vista Tala Restaurant

(top) Mt. Masaraga Row House; (bottom left) View deck; (bottom right) Bathroom

The view from the function room

The Narra Pavilion where the game stations for kids are

The resort bar

Another swimming pool at the resort

The woodland view from the resort

Pasukulan Falls at almost 200 feet

A B U C A Y

A T T R A C T I O N

Bataan is historic even in its remote spaces. It's the site of one natural attraction that bears the name of a defender's grit and an invader's foolish resolve known as Pasukulan Falls in the hamlet of the same name. The new generation of Filipinos may not consider it to be significant beyond the beauty that it holds in West Abucay, but it is a fitting remnant of a paradise that was once a witness to the surrender of an imperial army. The yield continues to reverberate from the mid-'40s and I was compelled to follow the sound that it makes in the forested valley of Mt. Natib one pleasant weekend.

The Wilderness Beckoned

Booked at Orani's newly-opened Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park for two nights, I decided to explore the idyllic woodland view from my sybaritic spot at its cliff-side swimming pool. More than mesmerized to comfortably gaze at it, I was lured to put on my pair of Columbia Ventrailia hiking shoes to stand where they stand. I was also ready to get dirty. My travel buddy deemed it rather foolish to step out of our bespoke getaway, but the seduction of the outdoors prevailed. I really didn't care for horse dung and hunger pangs as long as the wilderness was teeming with stories.

View of Morong, Bataan from the Pinagbutasan Trail

Pinagbutasan Trail

The hiking trail called Pinagbutasan that's roughly an hour away from the resort gave me enough reason to get up and walk. The dirt road trek starts from the DENR outpost of Barangay Tala (next to the resort) where I registered myself and my contributing photographer for P70 each. We hired a guide for P800 to lead us on the 12-hour day hike that we commenced at 7:00am after a delicious breakfast of chicharon-topped lomi. From the breezy viewing deck where the trail officially begins at the Bataan Natural Park, fog blanketed scenic views providing a surge of mystery to our adventure. The trail would bend in different directions as the terrain showed a steady ascent. I especially enjoyed the opened grasslands as surprising breaks from the gloomy woodlands.

(left) Tibig Tree; (top right) The trail to the viewing deck; (bottom right) Aetas in Orani

Flowers, Aetas, Raspberries and More

The hike itself was a treat because it led us to view various flowers, see aetas on board a motorcycle (which is a departure from their known lifestyle of long walks), and gormandize on saccharine raspberries called Sampinit. Although it was apparent that the trail had no water source, it has tibig trees that indicate the presence of water that may be close to the surface. To my delight, some spots of the trail was accentuated with the dangling fern of a pakong buwaya which is known to thrive in high altitude terrain and is good for rheumatic problems. We were advised by our guide to stay away from the usual hiking caveat -- the lipa plant that causes skin irritation and the kalmot pusa that's thorn-studded on its stem.

(left) With Aguiluz the dog; (top right) View of Morong, Bataan; (bottom right) Grassland

Pinagbutasan Trail

The detour to Pasukulan Falls from the base camp of Mt. Natib

Our Guide and His Dog Aguiluz

Our guide himself was a cause for interest. He started being one at the young age of 14 under the tutelage of his late father who was also a guide in the area. He has a young aspin tag-along named Aguiluz and has a twin brother who's also a guide. We had the chance to meet the latter at the viewing deck of the trail on his way back to Barangay Tala with his own group of hikers from Manila.

Two More Hours From The Bifurcation

The base camp of Mt. Natib is indication for those tackling the summit that the upward assault is close by. In our case, it meant that we had to make the necessary detour to our target destination which is Pasukulan Falls. From there, it was a couple of hours more of walking in sloping terrain, most of which almost didn't appear to have an obvious trail because of the lush vegetation in the area. A glance at an open cliff offered me a distant view of my booked resort which looked so small from how I originally saw it the first time during check-in.

The more we advanced in the trail, the less the midday sun hit our faces because of old trees. Their spooky appearance did not only cover the space above in an immense blanket of age-old leaves and branches. It also extended on the ground with their roots that resemble tentacles which made it a must to exaggerate our gait most of the time.

Steep Descent Before The Falls

By the time we crossed a few shallow rivers (the same one that crisscrosses in the forest and leads to the waterfalls), we were already parched and not excited to reach the culmination of our hike. For inspiration, I fixed my gaze during the entire time at Aguiluz which did not show any sign of exhaustion. And when I thought that the worst was over, the challenging 10-minute descent came. It was a steep ridge that had to be tackled to eventually reach the site of the waterfalls and something that we had to finish. With just enough energy to spare, I dragged myself down that descent and made the most awful grunts that reminded me of cheap porn.

Wild raspberries called Sampinit

Behold the waterfalls

Hello, Pasukulan!

As soon as the descent was over, Pasukulan Falls magnificently showed herself in the distance partially shrouded by trees. A few more steps and the pool was fully visible. Looking up, I finally saw the natural attraction in all its almost-200 feet glory. With lush green accentuating its vertical walls, it gracefully released its narrow cascading water that plunged into a catch basin creating a deep pool. It was a signal for me to take a much needed nap as my head was throbbing from the combination of hunger and weariness. With my body reclined on a rock, I closed my eyes to feel the mist on my eyelids from the pouring hustle.

The Snake-Interrupted Hike Back To Tala

The hike back to the base camp and Barangay Tala seemed unremarkable already as my body was prepared to shut down. It was the presence of a black snake that slithered past our hike row which jolted me back to the reality that I should still keep my eyes wide open. Because we were already exhausted after 11 hours of walking (with a few random stopovers), nighttime caught up with us and we had to tackle the last dirt road back to the resort in a dark environment. Thankfully, we were armed with a flashlight. In retrospect, I never walked so desperate for dinner in my entire life until that night.

As the fog descended that evening on the sloping terrain of Orani where my booked resort is located, I knew that I had it coming -- that moment when one mulls about one's decision.

My time of contemplation might have climaxed in bliss with the sight of Pasukulan Falls and culminated in regret over exhaustion, but both stages of the experience made me appreciate more the mesmerizing woodland view of Bataan that I had at the comfort of my booked resort. I finally stood where they stand which is something worth surrendering to.

Photography by Josua Chan and Karl Ace

Special Thanks To Bataan Tourism

Pasukulan Falls

Trail: Pinagbutasan of Orani, Bataan
DENR Contact for Guides: Darwin (Mobile # 0998-862-3106)
Where To Stay:Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park

Check out my Bataan-related blog posts:

+ Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park
+ Attractions To See In Blissful Bataan
+ Where To Eat In Blissful Bataan
+ The Plaza Hotel Balanga
+ The Bagac Friendship Tower
+ Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar
+ Vista Venice Resort

More Photos Below:

With my hike guide

The Discovery Leisure Company’s award winning Discovery Shores Boracay is once again nominated at the prestigious TRAVEL + LEISURE 2016 World's Best Awards! Go to this website to first participate in a short survey. After completing the survey, you may proceed in casting your votes.

Check out the simple steps below:

Voting period is until February 29, 2016 only.

Discovery Shores Boracay is a luxury resort hotel situated at the premier spot in the world-renowned White Beach of Boracay Island in Station 1. This upscale resort accommodation features 87 stylish suites equipped with the finest amenities and an unparalleled view of the Boracay sunset. Discovery Shores Boracay holds the distinction of being the first Philippine resort included in the exclusive Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection. Thus, a favorite of the most discriminating local and international travelers.

Check out Discovery Shores’ other awardshere.

Check out my own experience of Discovery Shores Boracayhere.

My booked room

W O W

B A G G A O

"Why Baggao?"

It's the reaction that I received one too many times weeks before my planned Cagayan Valley tour from Manila. I was determined to have a layover in Tuguegarao City after a 12-hour grueling bus ride and eventually end my northern Philippine adventure in Sta. Ana. It's the usual tourist route in the province anyway. Between such destinations, I was set to spend at least a night in Baggao, a town next to Gattaran, Peñablanca, Amulung and Alcala. It's considered to be semi-remote by local travelers that I talked to because getting there meant making a detour from the Baybayog-Alcala junction and tackling a long and winding road that have patches alternating in dirt and cement.

A resident of the province contended that there was nothing to see there. Even Google was brutally clear in warning me of the town's history of being a communist rebel base. However, all these didn't faze me because I spotted online a cozy looking lodging called Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant. For starters, I was able to book a room over the phone without any hassle. I figured that if there's something that's as inviting in pictures as that establishment, a natural attraction is definitely close by.

Picturesque cornfields

(left) Clubhouse Sandwich and Fries; (right) Ilokanong Pakbet and Grilled Liempo

Spring Chicken In Mushroom Sauce

Two Hours From Tuguegarao

It's safe to reveal that my travel instinct didn't fail me. Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant is where it is in the quaint village of San Jose because, as it turned out, there's a couple of waterfalls and caves, plus a hot spring nearby. I only managed to learn about this right before I had my dinner of Ilokanong Pakbet and Grilled Liempo at the hotel's restaurant. As a result, thinking about my next day itinerary left me convinced that the additional two hours of travel that I endured from Tuguegarao aboard a van was worth it. Heck, the Club Sandwich and Cheese Fries that I had after check-in was appetizing enough to make me remain unfazed against the previous contentions of my peers. Its accompanying glass of lemonade was also so refreshing that it relaxed my nerves.

The clubhouse

Quirky and Countryside

I comfortably settled into my booked room at the two-storey hotel after spending a few minutes checking out the garden where it's located. It appeared that the space outside also serves as an open-air garage for cars of guests whether on overnight stay or as part of a special event at its clubhouse. It's pleasantly tucked away from the main road where the restaurant is, so it's understandable for someone new arriving from any neighboring town to always mistake the latter to be the actual hotel. An interior pathway connects the two although there are also guestrooms at the second floor of the restaurant.

My booked room was exactly how I saw it online, only better on site. I was a bit astonished to see that something fancy like it would exist in the rural setting of the town, especially after coming from the highly urbanized city of Tuguegarao where most establishments were next to nondescript.

Frozen Cookies 'N' Cream

The irrigation across Duba Cave

The inn was neither modern nor dated. It was simply teeming in countryside feel that's normally palpable in Tagaytay and Baguio. If anything, it's a home away from home.

Instagram-Worthy Restaurant Treats

As for the restaurant, its quirky interiors belie uncompromising attention to dishes and featured treats. Outside, the sight of sad-looking eateries seems to be the norm. At Country Inn, though, a wall can't just be a wall. It needs to have a splash of colors and a display of bric-a-brac for enhancement. Even the food is plated with fondness and served in inventive ways that are truly Instagram-worthy. Most of all, they are not lacking in attractive taste. My orders of Spring Chicken In Mushroom Sauce, pork bits-topped Chopsuey, and Baby Back Ribs for lunch were quite memorable for being delicious. For dessert, I highly recommend the Frozen Cookies 'N' Cream for solo indulgence.

Chopsuey

Special Event Venue and Catering

I noticed that the restaurant seems to be the only decent dining destination in the town that can serve a panoply of dishes which makes it sought-after by locals three times a day (morning, noon, and night) and in between main meals. As a result, its Clubhouse and KTV Room are also the favorite venues for the residents' special events as the restaurant also offers catering services for formal and informal parties.

The clubhouse

Lyka Herrero of Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant

Hotel grounds

Young Innkeepers Maiyo and Lyka

The young couple of Maiyo and Lyka Herrero are the innkeepers of the hotel and restaurant and they seem to be breathing new life into the 2003-built establishment. As a matter of fact, it's Maiyo's doting mother, Audrey, who started the brand that can now also be seen via Country Inn By The Sea at a beachfront of Sta. Ana, three hours away from Baggao.

Should you visit the place soon and find that everything seems to be a bit different, it's because a renovation plan is on the way this year to make it before its anniversary.

Breakfast of Ilokanong Longganisa

Attraction Side Trips

After a tasty breakfast of Ilokanong Longganisa, I took advantage of the whole morning exploring the rest of the town where Duba Cave and River is. And, since Peñablanca's Laglagto River and Rock Formation is just a 30-minute hike away from its border, I also made the easy side trip giving me the chance to cross an old hanging bridge in the province. It was just unfortunate that I had to cancel a visit of an attraction called Bluewater Falls and a hot spring as I had to make a necessary check-out for my next two-hour journey to Sta. Ana.

Cornfields in Baggao

The facade of St. Joseph Parish in Baggao

I took my last glimpse of Baggao's picturesque cornfields that cover epic plains and hills aboard a van bound back for Tuguegarao as there are no direct commutes to Sta. Ana. They were what a visitor would see last when leaving the town. I got off at the Baybayog-Alcala junction to hail a van for my next destination and realised that, like the Ibanag word "abbaggaoan" from where it was derived, the place is truly a hunter's paradise where one can revel in his own mud hole to wash a catch before setting out for another endeavor. With the presence of Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant in the town, I can certainly dispute the apprehensions of other travelers and locals of Cagayan. Instead of similarly asking why, I'm compelled to quip, "Wow, Baggao!"

Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant

Official Facebook fan page of Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant

Address: San Jose, Baggao, Cagayan, Philippines 3506
Mobile: 0917-685-2837 and 0915-397-2300

More to come of my Cagayan tour soon!

More Photos Below:

On my way to Pasukulan Falls wearing a pair of Columbia Ventrailia

Columbia Ventrailia hiking shoes

H I K I N G

G E A R

I recently came from a day hike of Mt. Ulap in Benguet wearing a pair of sneakers. The foolish thing didn't dawn on me until I reached the middle of the trail. I might not have slipped more than once during the adventure, but I certainly had a very difficult time tackling the steep descent because my knees and legs bore the brunt of the reliability that my shoes lacked. The result was an expected body pain that lasted for almost a week.

To make sure that I really enjoyed my next hike, I opted to wear the relatively new Ventrailia hiking shoes from Columbia. Its color (blue) made a great first impression on me, but its quality was what I looked forward to for my 12 hour-long day hike of Pasukulan Falls in Bataan.

Testing the Columbia Ventrailia in Palaui Island, Cagayan

One of Columbia Ventrailia's best features is its OutDry technology

Testing the Columbia Ventrailia in the forested valley of Mt. Natib

At the rocky terrain of the Pinagbutasan Trail in Bataan

Lightweight and Breathable

Wearing the nifty pair on my way to the peninsula from Manila, I found it to be quite lightweight and breathable. For starters, it fit snugly. It was comfortable to walk around in even in hot weather. Thanks to its cushioning technology which uses perforated sockliner that contours to the foot, while keeping it cool. Living up to its name, the shoes' vent-ability is superior from any other brand that I've worn in the past. And, this is coming from a guy who sweats an awful lot of time.

Anti-Waterlog In Streams

On the way to Pasukulan Falls, I found it less challenging to cross streams regardless of the depth of the water and the presence of rock paths. What I adored about the shoes' super ventilated upper was not getting waterlogged every time I had to face the caveat of having no rock to step on.

The steep 10-minute descent to Pasukulan Falls wearing my Columbia Ventrailia

Reliable Outsole Grip On Various Surfaces

Slipping was less of a thing for my clumsy gait as well on wet or dry surfaces because its outsole is made of a traction rubber called Omni-Grip that kept my steps quite steady. I was also able to observe this brilliant feature when tackling the steep 10-minute descent to the waterfalls.

Responsive Midsole

It also tested well on the long hike for having a cushioning midsole that uses Techlite which is durable and impact-absorbing, making it quite responsive. The steady ascent of the trail that has uneven surfaces and the grueling way back were no match to the excellent support. I honestly didn't feel every rock and twig along the way giving my feet the stability that it needed for the rest of the day.

Hopping steadily on a descent was easy on a pair of Columbia Ventrailia

Tested Elsewhere

As of this writing, I've also tested the shoes in other destinations like the extremely wet environment of Duba Cave and the sloping terrain of the Lagunzad Trail in Palaui Island where I enjoyed its rocky descent on a trail run.

Overall Verdict

All in all, my experience wearing the Columbia Ventrailia hiking shoes was excellent each time. It made me hike with ease without compromising the aesthetics that's why I'm recommending it to fellow intrepid travelers who want the best out of life.

What's your own Columbia story? Feel free to share on the comments section of this post.

Shoe Care Tip: When drying out a pair of these, refrain from having it exposed to direct sunlight.

Photography by Josua Chan and Karl Ace

Columbia Sportswear

Official website of Columbia

Branch: SM Megamall A, Mandaluyong City, Philippines

Check out my review of the Atunas Aqua Shoes.

View of Morong from Orani

A souvenir shirt from Bataan Tourism Center

B E H O L D

B A T A A N

Most travelers reckon that Bataan is better off the way it is -- dangling away from the touristic route of Metro Manila to the rest of mainland Luzon. Like that single house in your neighborhood that resembles a mausoleum, it's located at a detour where life seems dreary. You try to avoid it on your way from school or work as much as you can until rumors of a mystical event there tickles your interest.

The reality is that the province is more than any hype. It shines where it's most random... like a friend's house where you crash for impromptu snacks. It's where you kill time and end up with precious memories.

Pasukulan Falls of Abucay

To appreciate a visit of the peninsula, one needs to take one attraction at a time. Set a pace that lets your immersion become relevant to your sensibilities. Are you fond of beaches? It has lots of it. Giddy for remote attractions? It has secluded waterfalls and intrepid hike trails. Craving for local treats? There's no shortage of such delights in Balanga and the rest of its 11 towns. As a matter of fact, there's more than one reliable lodging in the area to serve as your base for a tour.

For someone who's visited the province more than once, I can ascertain that an overnight stay there is worth repeating again and again. And, here are just a few reasons why:

La Salle Beach

1. Soak-worthy Beaches

Bataan can rival Batangas for near-Manila beach attractions. As a matter of fact, it has more than one such destination that locals flock to every summer. Westnuk Beach of Morong is the most popular for exuding a private cove vibe. The good news is that the province also has the vast stretches of the La Salle Beach and Stella Mariz Beach. Even the public beach in Bagac looks decent enough to get your bronze on.

Read more about Bataan's beaches here.

The woodland view in Orani

2. Attractive Woodlands and Waterfalls

The farming plains of the peninsula are not much to look at, but that doesn't have to deter you from venturing into its remote woodlands where the terrain can get chilly and sloping in many spots. The town of Orani has a village called Tala where hikers hie off to for day hikes and more. It can serve as a great alternative to a vacation in Tagaytay. One secluded waterfalls to discover there is Pasukulan in Abucay.

Read more about Bataan's woodlands and waterfalls here.

The Colonnade of Mount Samat

3. Life-changing Historical Landmarks and Museums

You can't go wrong in including visits to historical landmarks and museums in your itinerary when you're in Bataan. It's a must to gaze at the majestic Memorial Cross and Colonnade that dominate Pilar's Mount Samat. Apart from its citadel-like aesthetic, the attraction is beloved by Filipinos for its significance to the country's World War II past. There's even a museum in the same site where cameras are not allowed. For a similar experience in another location where gadgets with cameras are allowed, the Bataan WWII Museum can be a memorable side trip. Right outside it is where the Surrender Memorial can be found.

Read more about Bataan's landmarks and museums.

Souvenirs from the Bataan Tourism Center

4. Sought-after Local Delights

Local tourists go as far as Baguio to buy a soft broom or walis tambo when most of it are actually produced in this side of the country. Some of it are even displayed at the Bataan Tourism Center. And with Capiz getting most of the attention for quality seafood, Filipinos are missing out on the presence of Amanda's Marine Products, a leading Bataan-based company that manufactures and exports sauteed shrimp paste, fish sauce, salted anchovies, dried and smoked fish.

The place also has a homegrown coffee shop (The Beanery) and ice cream store (Geno's) that can give Metro Manila establishments a run for their money. As for local cuisine, the dining destination of Joyous Tangway is one restaurant to visit in Balanga.

Read more about Bataan's local delightshere.

Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park in Orani

5. World-class Accommodations

Now that you have a list of attractions to enjoy in the province, a tour base is the next one to settle. Whether it's a luxury hotel or a bespoke resort, an accommodation in the area is not hard to find. In Balanga, The Plaza Hotel is the newest one to consider with its old world facade and exciting location next to the Plaza Mayor de Ciudad de Balanga. For a mountainside escapade with a swimming pool to boot, Orani's Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park is the establishment of choice. Should you prefer the mountain views of Morong, Vista Venice Resort is a great alternative.

The Plaza Hotel-Balanga

Read more about The Plaza Hotel-Balanga.

Read more about Vista Tala Resort and Recreational Park.

Read more about Vista Venice Resort.

Rain or shine, Bataan is worth your time. Visit it today and create new memories of soak-worthy beaches, attractive woodlands and waterfalls, life-changing historical landmarks and museums, sought-after local delights, plus world-class lodgings!

Special thanks to Bataan Tourism Center

The sump at the opening of Duba Cave

The opening of Duba Cave and Underground River

B A G G A O

A T T R A C T I O N

Across the Philippines, the tourism cancer that is communism is still perpetuated by the New People's Army after being formed in the dark by Bernabe Buscayno in 1969. Traditionally torching establishments for extortion, the local rebels have been holding the country hostage for decades regardless of who the elected president in Malacanan is. Where they are, resorts are forced to swap rustic fences for barbwire. Where they operate, travelers are pawns for misfires with local authorities. And, this has never been more real when I recently visited Cagayan for a week.

Past Tuguegarao, the coastal town of Sta. Ana is always the next destination of most tourists. Locals will even discourage travelers from venturing into remote places in between lest they know someone who lives there or there's an official business to be done. In my case, my business was finding the less explored attractions where most don't dare of going because of insurrections or rumors of such.

The scenery across Duba Cave

Young residents of Sitio San Miguel in Baggao

At the sump near the opening of Duba Cave

The narrow sump leading to Duba Cave

Detour For Duba

I made a detour from the Baybayog-Alcala Junction to explore the sleepy town of Baggao. As soon as the well-paved road turned into patches of dirt, I found myself surrounded by endless fields of corn. They seem to be everywhere like how Negros Occidental has lots of sugarcane plantations. They're on vast plains and hilltops. Some are even in residents' backyards. Interestingly, what I set out for that weekday of February was not the town's main crop but its cave that locals call Duba.

San Jose Hotel Booked

I was booked at the cozy Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant of San Jose for the night and found it proper to hire a tricycle driver to take me to the attraction the next day. Since a female hotel staff recommended her relative, I no longer wasted time asking around outside. I might have been on intrepid travel mode -- and solo at that -- but when it gets dark in a place that has an unfortunate reputation, I hit the hotel bed which was exactly what I did. I guess my folks raised me that way.

Where we began crossing the river to reach Duba Cave

River-crossing in San Miguel, Baggao

Hired Tricycle and Visitor Registration

When I arrived at the hamlet of San Miguel with George, my hired tricycle driver and a village councilor of a neighboring sitio, I spotted a shallow stream which reminded me of my rural vacations in Quezon Province. We made a necessary stop at a small convenience store to register ourselves as visitors for a fee of P5 per person.

It was there where I learned that the cave is also an underground river and would need to be tackled soaked wet more than half of the time inside. More than just wading in cold water, one is required to swim or float as there are passages that have walls without handholds. As a result, I no longer hired a guide (prevailing fee is P500) and settled to just check out the opening of the cave because I can't swim nor float.

The irrigation intake where brave tourists and residents take the plunge for a swim

A local of San Miguel on a regular weekday routine (behind is my chartered tricycle ride)

The rock wall rising from the sump

Rock formation at the irrigation intake

Cave Details

I still pressed on and decided to miss out on seeing a wonderful skylight and a so-called Skyline Falls, plus the cave's icicle-formed stalactites and dripping stalagmites. And, since my visit was on an early morning, I was not on schedule to witness the circadian flight of bats that the place is famous for. These, however, didn't dampen my excitement to visit the attraction -- or at least part of it -- because I tend to dismiss as fantasy what my body can't deal with. My workaround was settling for what's outside the cave as I was told that there's an interesting river to cross and an irrigation intake structure with tranquil views of surrounding rock formations.

Tranquil Views of Nature

After parking his tricycle at the foot of a riverside pathway, George led me to take the short hike to reach the platform which visitors jump off from onto the turquoise waters of the irrigation intake structure. Since I was told that it's deep, I opted to just use it as a viewing deck. He added that every summertime, the area would be filled with residents and tourists. During my visit, though, everything looked undisturbed. It was just us there and a couple of kids nearby who were hanging out at one of the riverside open cottages.

Crossing The River

Soon, we were walking back to where we parked our ride and scaled down the side of the shallow river to cross it. He pointed towards the bank on the other side to inform me that past it was our target destination. What seemed an easy river crossing in the beginning turned out to be a dreadful 15-minute activity for me. George was tiptoeing on his bare feet like the ground was ridiculously flat. He could have breezed through it in 5 minutes, but he was kind enough to slow down to make sure I didn't slip and hit my head on a Cagayan Valley rock. It was not because I did not have callous feet, but it was because I'm just not really agile as I used to be in my 20s. I tried it barefoot and on slippers but I preferred the latter because some rocks were just stubbornly rough!

A closer look at the opening of a small cave at the sump

One of a few riverside open cottages for visitors who prefer going on a picnic from a safe spot

The Scenery At The Sump

The opening of the cave is preceded by a narrow lagoon that looks like a sump but is opined by experts to have an underground connection to the river somewhere. On one side where we emerged from the shallow river, large trees were standing like pillars to a citadel. Across was a long stretch of rock wall where a small cave opening can be found. The sump was deceptively shallow because a closer look revealed the water to be more intense in color as it touches the rock wall which means that a part of it is quite deep. For all we know, it can be where the underground connection is.

Finally, Duba Cave

George pointed towards a prominent opening at the far end of the sump that indicates where the cave begins and where my visit ends. I took my time there as a result. With a few minutes left to kill for a soak, I braved the cold waters. Just like a summer fling, I lingered near my target, just close enough to be teased. The scenery there was not bad at all. It was awfully quiet to my delight. If I were alone, I might have even skinny-dipped.

After a few minutes of wading in the water, I finally decided to return to my booked hotel. Past the river-crossing, George segued to me about another attraction nearby called Laglagto River that he could take me to. This was perhaps because he felt I needed to get past the anti-climax of not being able to enter the cave. To this, I willingly obliged and proceeded to leave the place for the next attraction.

A lone farmer in the field of a neighboring sitio leading to San Miguel

The cornfields of Baggao

The view of the narrow sump from the opening of the cave

A Bite of Reality

Fast-forward to dinnertime back at the hotel, a series of sirens wailed past my table at the restaurant. I assumed the commotion outside to be a minor incident only. However, I was wrong because I learned from locals the next day that communist rebels ambushed six cops and seriously injured eight more in an encounter.

Looking back at my intrepid visit of Baggao and the unfortunate incident that happened right after it, I mulled on the strength of a town's beauty and the risks involved in seeing it. My epiphany lies in my happy memory of visiting Duba Cave and seeing the picturesque cornfields leading to it. I refuse to be held hostage to the thought that the risks are the only reality of the town. Its natural attractions and friendly residents far outweigh the manic ideals of a few wandering dissidents which makes it pointless to fear such places. What makes more sense is Filipinos seeing the Philippines one attraction at a time. And, I proved it to be possible in this side of Cagayan.

Travel Tips:

• San Jose, Baggao is two hours away from Tuguegarao City and less than four hours away from Sta. Ana.
• There's a Baggao-bound van that leaves Tuguegarao City. Van terminal is along Balzain Highway near the University of Cagayan Valley.
• The hotel to book for a visit of Duba Cave is Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant in San Jose.
• Duba Cave is located in Sitio San Miguel, 20 minutes away from the hotel.
• Contact Village Councilor George at 0906-848-2142 for a chartered tricycle ride.

More Photos Below:

The scenery on the way to Sitio San Miguel

George, my hired tricycle driver (also a Village Councilor)

Laglagto River view from the old hanging bridge

The old hanging bridge with platform made of yakal

R E M O T E

B E A U T Y

When traveling, I sometimes make one detour after another until I ultimately find myself lost. I can recall my recent Cagayan Valley immersion to be true of this. I was supposed to head for Sta. Ana after my Tuguegarao layover, but the lure of Baggao's picturesque cornfields was just too enticing to ignore. I had to schedule it as a detour between main stops. For a while, exploring the town was a blur. I was at a point of culminating my visit with nothing at hand until I made a last minute side trip to the town's Duba Cave. To the prodding of my hired tricycle driver named George, I took another turn on a dirt road instead of returning for my booked lodging at the cozy Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant in the village of San Jose. According to him, the additional side trip would be worth it.

Treading On Rocks

George said he knows of a secluded attraction that's a river with rock formations. He was so excited because he hasn't seen it with his own eyes despite residing nearby for decades. It turned out that he has only learned stories from residents who have been traversing an old hanging bridge that connects the terrain over what he referred to as Laglagto (the term is Ilokano for treading on rocks). He even alluded to Baggao regarding its location, but we both learned from locals on our way there that the river is found past the border of the town, making it part of Peñablanca.

Boulders to behold

Locals of San Miguel, Baggao at the hike trail to Laglagto River

The picturesque cornfields of Baggao

Taking a restful break from hiking

Attraction of Baggao Or Peñablanca?

Farmers residing at the foot of the mountain where it's located feel otherwise. They're all from Baggao and tending to various errands at the banks of the river from bathing livestock and washing clothes where no one from Peñablanca could be seen for miles. Even the same registration area for Duba Cave visitors -- a small convenience store in San Miguel -- currently adopts the P5-registration process for Laglagto River. On maps, though, it's politically the next town's tourist attraction.

Twenty-Minute Hike To The River

After the necessary visitor registration in Sitio San Miguel, we hit the road for a few minutes until we reached a signage indicating the detour. My tricycle driver soon parked our ride at the entrance of a narrower dirt road where the short 20-minute hike was supposed to start. According to him, trekking the area used to be a lot harder because the pathway was mostly rock-studded. It appeared that a private firm (commissioned by a cornfield owner) was currently doing construction on the road these past few weeks. As it was during our visit, it was already a bit challenging to tackle because the ascent was steep. After 10 minutes, though, the terrain would steadily be sloping and flat in most parts. It helped to see the pristine water of the river next to the trail as it eased me of any exhaustion that I was feeling.

Crossing The River

There was no signage anymore past the jump-off point. We just kept on going until we reached the site of the hanging bridge which indicated that we had arrived. Instead of crossing the yakal-made platform of the old bridge, we decided to wade through the knee-deep waters below to reach the other side. Surprisingly, the current was a bit strong even if it appeared tranquil at the surface. To my dismay, my pair of Tribu sandals was no match to the force of the current that it split in two in the midsole! We were following a pair of local males who were also having a hard time advancing with a motorcycle in tow. Behind us was a kid who was half my size and he didn't look annoyed at all which sort of encouraged me to trudge on.

Scenery and More

After 10 minutes in the water, we reached the continuation of the trail. I decided to take a quick break for a cool soak next to a boulder and recklessly rested on top of it for a sunbathing session like it was my party. I didn't care if it wasn't the beach. It's moments like that which makes getting lost in a new place memorable, especially if the scenery were views of a massive rock wall, rock formations, age-old trees and pristine waters.

The massive rock wall rising next to the river

A young local crossing Laglagto River

The old hanging bridge

We continued on the trail and found at the cliff-side a more narrow pathway accentuated by vines, ferns, and other wild plants that seemed to lead down to the river below where huge rocks and limestone could be found. Down there, the rock walls and boulders looked more massive. Although most rocks appeared intimidating to crawl onto, they were not quite slippery. Rising from both sides of the river, the fortifying rock walls seemed to drown out any noise coming from nearby places that the attraction felt like a refuge of solitude for anyone who craves peace and quiet. The turquoise waters were so clear that we spotted snails, freshwater shrimp, and other little crawlers enjoying the remoteness of the area.

Leaving Via The Hanging Bridge

I decided to seal my visit by crossing the river via the old hanging bridge which gave me splendid views of Laglagto from a high point. As with all similar attractions I've been to, it was difficult leaving it behind. The remote beauty of the place made me wish I owned a rustic cottage nearby for an overnight stay.

Most tourists know Peñablanca as the site of the 7-chamber Callao Cave and nothing more. With the presence of Laglagto River and its old hanging bridge at its border, travelers suddenly has the option to be more intrepid and venture getting lost in this remote part of Cagayan.

Travel Tips:

• Laglagto River is a 20 to 30-minute hike from Sitio San Miguel of Baggao. It's a kilometer away from Duba Cave.
• It's 20 minutes away from the nearest lodging in San Jose called Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant. The hotel is 2 hours away from Tuguegarao City and less than four hours away from Sta. Ana.
• There's a Baggao-bound van that leaves Tuguegarao City daily. Van terminal is along Balzain Highway near the University of Cagayan Valley.
• Contact Village Councilor George at 0906-848-2142 for a chartered tricycle ride from San Jose.

More Photos Below:

The romantic moonlit ocean view at a dining deck of Country Inn By The Sea

C A G A Y A N

R E S O R T

Sta. Ana is easy to get to if you're deplaning at the Tuguegarao Airport. It's just less than three hours away anyway from the capital of Cagayan where the airport is. For intrepid travelers who prefer reaching the coastal town from any spot outside of the province, the intrepid lure of a bus ride is always the challenge to tackle. One can't brush off travel coma with a ride that practically jolts one into a similar experience, but if the booked accommodation is at a relaxing beachfront resort such as Country Inn By The Sea, all the numbing anticipation of reaching one's destination can be worth it.

In my case, it was the ideal way to end a 14-hour road trip that commenced in Manila. I couldn't have had it any other way in this northern part of the Philippines where I barely know anyone. The warm hospitality of a Filipino-owned resort was exactly what I needed and Country Inn By The Sea made sure that I imbibed that at the onset, from my pleasant check-in to my first sumptuous meal in the town.

Lunch setup at the beachfront dining deck

Sea-View Dining Decks

Served at its sea-view dining decks, my order of Lemon Pepper Chicken instantly made me feel at home. The rustic charm of dining semi-al fresco at the beachfront seemed natural. I didn't mind that the sky was overcast that uneventful weekday of February and I was alone in the same week that revelers across the world celebrated Valentine's Day. My spot atop the stilts of Sta. Ana's sought-after dining deck offered me a mesmerizing view of the sea and it was more than enough to soothe my melancholy. The waves at the beach were particularly evocative. They would appear to be daunting at the trough but would lose mettle at their crest, crashing delicately onto the gray-colored sand down below as I mindlessly tore into my viand.

Crazy Cravings Fulfilled

My local guide advised me that although it's the typical windswept scenery in this side of the province, there are days when it would suddenly be sunny. My dreary mood, though, complemented the damp weather. It was just a blessing that the food at the resort's restaurant was a stark contrast. The other meals I enjoyed there definitely helped to revive my genial countenance. The restaurant's wide variety of specialties didn't fail me at all! When I wanted fresh pizza for dinner and desperately craved to pair it off with flavored coffee, the menu had them available that night. For my first breakfast, I had Ilokanong Longganisa which was interesting to have where seafood is considered to be more accessible. I had pancake the next morning which was surprising for being quite hefty so much so that I wished there were more strips of bacon to go along with the treat. It was also encouraging to see the fruit display at the restaurant entrance as it's indicative of the available flavors that a guest could order for his or her fruit shake.

Lemon Pepper Chicken for lunch

Country Inn By The Sea Pizza

Resort Details and More

I was booked at the resort's Honeymoon-dubbed Standard Room which has a window facing the beach. At night, it was impossible to miss the soothing sound of crashing waves even if the room's located next to the property's main gate. It was complete with the basic room features from a television set to a comfy bed. Although it's air-conditioned, I only used it for a short time as it got chilly in the wee hours.

Guests in large number can opt for any of the two units of dormitory-type room that has 18 to 20 beds. It's a beachfront accommodation and even has a private balcony to boot. There are also units for families or groups of 7 guests.

I found the resort's well-manicured garden admirable at a space that's close to the beach because the unpredictable weather can be unforgiving to certain types of plants. At the resort, its presence enhanced the home-away-from-home ambiance by rendering as much green to an otherwise windswept location.

Function Hall and Parking Space

The resort isn't that sprawling but everything seems to be in its rightful place. Its function hall looks spacious enough for any local event that can cater to at least 80 guests. Residents of the town as well as travelers in between destinations such as Palaui Island can always walk in at the restaurant and dine anytime for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The parking space is wide enough for travelers with cars and the lodgings are all facing the ocean except for the accommodations at the resort extension.

My breakfast of Ilokanong Longganisa at the resort restaurant

All in all, my two-night stay at the Country Inn By The Sea was ideal in most aspects of a pleasurable getaway. The resort lived up to its name of being a relaxing beachfront lodging. Also, it fulfilled my crazy cravings in a town where I thought it would serve me nothing but the traditional pancit specialty. Lastly, everyone at the property was always smiling even when I was having a difficult time to be the first to give one. I was initially scared of being so far away from where I reside. Sta. Ana may be one of the farthest towns in mainland Luzon from Manila, but it definitely did not feel like it as a result of a pleasurable stay.

Country Inn By The Sea

Official website of Country Inn By The Sea

Address: Centro, Santa Ana, Cagayan, Philippines
Mobile: 0917-809-4236
Email: info@countryinnstaana.com

More Photos Below: