tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60324424651882225972024-03-29T11:29:24.683+08:00JOVIAL WANDERERHikes | Travels | FoodJovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comBlogger524125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-76196854896658446172024-03-20T09:46:00.002+08:002024-03-29T09:39:00.244+08:00A nice and easy hike up Mt. Matinik (San Miguel, Bulacan)<span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: start;">To welcome 2024, I reunited with good old friends, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@CelineAndDennisMurillo" target="_blank">Celine</a>, <a href="https://www.ourworldinwords.com/author/gretchen/page/43/" target="_blank">Gretchen</a>, <a href="https://ironwulf.net/" target="_blank">Ferdz</a> and <a href="https://www.traveling-up.com/" target="_blank">Kara</a> for a short hike in Bulacan. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhl__3u7T3R_cO1fUKTiQUik58yZ3v8OjBx3dnfKnwDsjKi6naNur34E-MzCI4QQYNmX3x_UHWJ4UPCv_4D7yhU9J0ffo9rptmiRhWzpLqWGaZ3GxPYxe9L4W2SobVoPObrdo8jfBq1aiS3PEMZvOmT01DpPy6h3xeghMqM_1__Qd0oNR4KLRmQh9402z4" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1772" data-original-width="1772" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhl__3u7T3R_cO1fUKTiQUik58yZ3v8OjBx3dnfKnwDsjKi6naNur34E-MzCI4QQYNmX3x_UHWJ4UPCv_4D7yhU9J0ffo9rptmiRhWzpLqWGaZ3GxPYxe9L4W2SobVoPObrdo8jfBq1aiS3PEMZvOmT01DpPy6h3xeghMqM_1__Qd0oNR4KLRmQh9402z4=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>First hike for 2024</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div>Mt. Matinik is a relatively new trail (opened 1-2 years ago) in Biak na Bato, sharing the same jump-off as the more popular mountain, Mt. Manalmon. Hiking enthusiasts can make the most of their trip by combining it with Mt. Manalmon and/or Mt. Gola.</span><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXq0hxV-9wHOKUBbk6iFjVZSmIUpG3pdeFEnR3dtUzGrLpG378BOwukGfExdy-V-NRoBJeWEzn6codwZLr66mfBt7MMhl050J3ZYclAFSH47EnGfpC01n1RSsKeTsbkWdFv9z0NvVYZy8a-5qi71_pL3QNuOR-6bNFwxfLnb_iicgXjvjhY3EWuWXNTfE" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXq0hxV-9wHOKUBbk6iFjVZSmIUpG3pdeFEnR3dtUzGrLpG378BOwukGfExdy-V-NRoBJeWEzn6codwZLr66mfBt7MMhl050J3ZYclAFSH47EnGfpC01n1RSsKeTsbkWdFv9z0NvVYZy8a-5qi71_pL3QNuOR-6bNFwxfLnb_iicgXjvjhY3EWuWXNTfE" width="640" /></a></div><br />Average Hiking Time is 1-2 hours to the summit. As most of the trail is passing open areas, bring protection from the heat. There's ample parking space and areas to change after your hike. You can also take a dip in the river. Community stores are at the jump-off, if you need to buy drinks or snacks. Expect to get your shoes wet when you cross shallow sections of the river.<br /><br />💸<b>Hiking Information & </b></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Expenses (as of January 2024)</b></span><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Getting to the jump-off</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>If bringing your own vehicle </b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Google map to </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/URffGdfLMr5KpPTh9" target="_blank">jump-Off of Mt.Manalmon And Mt.Gola</a> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Roads up until the jump-off are well-paved. Parking spots are plenty but mostly on dirt road.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b><br />Via Public Transpo</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">From Baliwag Bus terminal, (Link <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/a4R1xUjwe1tFEdTG9" target="_blank">here</a>), take a bus bound for Gapan and ask the driver to let you off at San Miguel, Bulacan near the Red Horse signage (as in the local beer brand). This is a massive landmark which will be on the left side of the road coming from Manila and pretty hard to miss. Lots of bikers take photos in front of this statue. There's a tricycle terminal near the intersection where the driver will let you off. Just tell the driver to bring you to "Madlum", </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Expenses</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Entry Fee - 50 Pesos (Barangay + Environmental Fee)</span><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Guide Fee for Mt. Matinik is 500 Pesos (it's usually a 1:5 ratio or 1 guide for 5 people)<br />Accepts walk-ins</span></div></div></div></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>For other easy hikes near Metro Manila, check out my posts on: </b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2024/03/pico-de-loro-day-hike-november-2023.html" target="_blank">Pico de Loro</a> (Ternate, Cavite)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2023/08/a-rainy-day-hike-at-mt-lantik.html" target="_blank">Mt. Lantik</a> (Nasugbu, Batangas)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2022/05/easy-day-hikes-mt-palo-mt-tinucan.html" target="_blank">Mt. Palo/Tinucan</a> (Antipolo, Rizal)</span></div>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-62410019426508024782024-03-18T06:44:00.022+08:002024-03-29T09:42:23.384+08:00Pico de Loro Day Hike (November 2023)<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Before it <a href="https://www.gmanetwork.com/lifestyle/travel/97102/mt-pico-de-loro-reopens-to-the-public-after-6-years-rehab/story#:~:text=The%20MPPMNGPL%20was%20closed%20to,was%20cleaned%2Dup%20and%20improved." style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">closed for rehabilitation in October 2016</a>, Pico de Loro </span>was one of the mountains I visited frequently. Back in the 90s, it was an affordable and convenient option for a college student like me. It was close enough as a day trip from south of Manila and had cheap entry fees. Guides were also not required then so we could easily go when time and budget permits. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thankfully, it reopened to the public in January 2023 and I had to visit this old favorite, at least one more time. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh98o1FFxp_dcZEVUoY0rCnNqT-phVUrcCueQgOqa46nuXydG9-u_GEI-HbBUnLwm2-oL5iqb4dVoICORIGIWipUH2h98hqx7U2USPwDZQ4qEomSGD5Vt5p7UV3V_ksjt88BzUkE5aytCgLc5NdTgBOAjuZqRMR7Ys8NGjqJCHSlMmuskovmKjCBmRtPgo" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh98o1FFxp_dcZEVUoY0rCnNqT-phVUrcCueQgOqa46nuXydG9-u_GEI-HbBUnLwm2-oL5iqb4dVoICORIGIWipUH2h98hqx7U2USPwDZQ4qEomSGD5Vt5p7UV3V_ksjt88BzUkE5aytCgLc5NdTgBOAjuZqRMR7Ys8NGjqJCHSlMmuskovmKjCBmRtPgo=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The return hike with my siblings felt like coming home but with couple of justifiable changes as part of the management efforts to preserve the mountain. Guides are now required, along with it, higher registration fees (see below for rates and other details) and limited days to hike. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The entrance to the trail head has also changed. You start at the side of the registration area, an easy stroll beside a nice, clean river, followed by a parade of huge native trees, then the challenging parts - a combination of gradual ascents and downhills leading to the campsite and summit. Though slightly more challenging than the old trail, it allowed us to encounter more of the mountains inhabitants including monkeys and birds! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg00KnthDbTvVf3zQ1_G5VGC3flfhaoCQSug21UGaLi4VlQ2VA6ohe5x5E6EnYw6e13qfQemPZQ_4OmQEMxE9YzJyWcSjhsgsgAYLueoaC8IINX0APUt4n5HcWa6nP7Ms_6f68LpUXP-ayaX82reAxyfhA2Wmpv_0wTLwfO6UKIv8vTNb3zT4P6ceLATQ0" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg00KnthDbTvVf3zQ1_G5VGC3flfhaoCQSug21UGaLi4VlQ2VA6ohe5x5E6EnYw6e13qfQemPZQ_4OmQEMxE9YzJyWcSjhsgsgAYLueoaC8IINX0APUt4n5HcWa6nP7Ms_6f68LpUXP-ayaX82reAxyfhA2Wmpv_0wTLwfO6UKIv8vTNb3zT4P6ceLATQ0=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">start of the hike. Look at that huge, beautiful tree!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">An average hike takes a total of 4 hours, out and back for an enjoyable pace. A sturdy flight of stairs leading to its summit was built to help prevent soil erosion and help hikers get down more safely, a needed development to save the mountain and allow more people to see its beauty. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Post hike, we dined at Seaview restaurants, one of the numerous restaurants that sprouted along the highway near the jump-off. Their tsokolate de batirol is worthy of a return hike to Pico de Loro! </span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pico de Loro Hiking Information</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>🗺 </b>Location - Mt. Palay-Palay National Park, Ternate, Cavite</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/YebCGc9Cju3X9YbVA" target="_blank">Link to Google map jump-off in Ternate, Cavite</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div>✅Age limit for hikers is 17 yrs old and above</div><div>✅Camping is no longer allowed </div><div>✅Hiking can only be scheduled on Fridays & Saturdays. You’ll need to register at <span style="font-family: inherit;">https://mppmngnp.com to book a slot.</span></div><div>✅After your hike, you can take a quick bath near the registration area. I saw 2 bathrooms, not sure if there are more. </div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">❗Commuting is possible but a little challenging. There are no buses that'll take you from Manila to the jump-off. You'd have to change modes of transpo a few times depending on where you're coming from. From Ternate, you'd have to take a tricycle to the jump-off and would need to arrange for a pick-up. The road conditions are good and there's ample parking space. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div></span></div><b>Expenses</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Guide (mandatory) - 500 Pesos, for 1-5 persons</li><li>Entrance fee = 200/head (300 for foreigners)</li><li>Parking fee = 50 for motorcycle; 100 for cars/SUV/van</li></ul><div><b>Related Post </b></div><div>Another option of a nice and easy hike is Mt. Lantik in Nasugbu, Batangas. For more details, you can refer to this post, <a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2023/08/a-rainy-day-hike-at-mt-lantik.html" target="_blank">A Rainy Day Hike at Mt. Lantik</a>.</div><p></p><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>For other easy hikes near Metro Manila, check out my posts on: </b></span></div><div><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2024/03/a-nice-and-easy-hike-up-mt-matinik-san.html" style="font-family: trebuchet;" target="_blank">Mt. Matinik</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">(San Miguel, Bulacan)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2022/05/easy-day-hikes-mt-palo-mt-tinucan.html" target="_blank">Mt. Palo/Tinucan</a> (Antipolo, Rizal)</span></div>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-68684307411542445122023-08-27T09:58:00.006+08:002024-03-29T09:41:07.793+08:00A Rainy Day Hike at Mt. Lantik<p>Mt. Lantik in Nasugbu, Batangas offers a short but refreshing mountain hike. The trail has mild ascents and nice views of nearby peaks, making it ideal for beginners or people like me who want to get back into hiking. On May 2023, I visited it for the first time with my friend, <a href="http://www.kirkanatomy.com/" target="_blank">Kirk</a>. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4RINZ6nCpQrn_80-BKVU_i3oyJOwGWW0VLcaIrEQ6D_5Osxyu1iHlONx22DbqClU7j0YWz6tHTMv532OQI018X1C1rNEE9Zx_Mi5vpPWpyEN7gEA8OVICFDdJtuEcF17CiszJOBdBv3gWZ3bP6wjxLDHYKZB8g-vfpCIC_kNxQJRry_TX_4R6Z0LKRTc/s3838/IMG_9433.heic" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2879" data-original-width="3838" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4RINZ6nCpQrn_80-BKVU_i3oyJOwGWW0VLcaIrEQ6D_5Osxyu1iHlONx22DbqClU7j0YWz6tHTMv532OQI018X1C1rNEE9Zx_Mi5vpPWpyEN7gEA8OVICFDdJtuEcF17CiszJOBdBv3gWZ3bP6wjxLDHYKZB8g-vfpCIC_kNxQJRry_TX_4R6Z0LKRTc/w640-h480/IMG_9433.heic" width="640" /></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Sharing the same jump-off as Mt. Talamitam in Brgy. Kayrilaw in Nasugbu, Batangas, it takes 2.5 hours of car travel from Manila. Hiking to the summit takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, in an enjoyable forest filled with fruit trees. Though the hike is short, guides are required. From the registration area (40 Pesos/head), you can secure a guide on the spot (500 Pesos). </span></div><p style="text-align: justify;">From the summit of Mt. Lantik, there are trails going to Mt. Talamitam then on to Apayang and is also a good option if you want to maximize your time while you're in the area. (Note : Guide fee is 500 Pesos/mountain so if hiking 3 mountains, expect to pay 1,500 Pesos.)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig99QnGbymDN8hyZVrNeIk0pC4FJa5gtOmnihW2FJ7edVStEu0h4bDFVlCeKdtodikhDYwCfK7WuuhfCZuE_UUaE-kg6mfpAAVBkJCfxy8ZywnSG5wQh3PUr8RQejHgi8vaKZObFojOzFz27a0PMx-Vqe9tduStBnOXA6Hdu8Fx5i6_8b2q-H6YqZhYME/s4032/IMG_9416.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig99QnGbymDN8hyZVrNeIk0pC4FJa5gtOmnihW2FJ7edVStEu0h4bDFVlCeKdtodikhDYwCfK7WuuhfCZuE_UUaE-kg6mfpAAVBkJCfxy8ZywnSG5wQh3PUr8RQejHgi8vaKZObFojOzFz27a0PMx-Vqe9tduStBnOXA6Hdu8Fx5i6_8b2q-H6YqZhYME/w640-h480/IMG_9416.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Summer had started last month and the heat was intolerable. At first, I was worried it'll get too hot but while making our way up, cool breeze circled us. Adding to my amusement was the deafening courtship calls of male cicadas. As we approached a clearing, I soon found out why the weather was chilly - dark clouds hovered, giving a gentle warning of the coming downpour. </span></p><p>Approaching the summit, small drops of rain began to fall. Soon, the gentle rain turned aggressive, followed by thunder and lightning. We took cover under a makeshift nipa hut while munching on ripe guavas we picked from the trees at the summit. The nipa hut didn't offer much of a cover against the strong downpour and soon, we were soaked! There wasn't much to do as lightning had prevented us from walking around. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf46XVpW4AAcZhwTj1qPcCxYsz4Tl7lg9tXlf-pPHiYUv5MsoQYw7dgRGqgDQYrAElORxFb0g14RZYJyAvw0Is7mTPYuq73A_iDKaUcREsZs4hMnZ9M7vb9ChixFXIhV6vfMiDaKJI8AIhYiQyg9Vgypu1ei42fp-O5whWvL8SL9gO1VBdMCDR8Q0zdIM/s4032/IMG_9458.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf46XVpW4AAcZhwTj1qPcCxYsz4Tl7lg9tXlf-pPHiYUv5MsoQYw7dgRGqgDQYrAElORxFb0g14RZYJyAvw0Is7mTPYuq73A_iDKaUcREsZs4hMnZ9M7vb9ChixFXIhV6vfMiDaKJI8AIhYiQyg9Vgypu1ei42fp-O5whWvL8SL9gO1VBdMCDR8Q0zdIM/w640-h480/IMG_9458.HEIC" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">our guide, Kuya Michael</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>When rain had stopped half hour later, the fog unraveled a savory scenery of misty mountains, as if to make up for the time we were stuck at the summit. After the rain, everything looked magical, even the plants look healthier and greener. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGG7Mt9oumUtcXB37DaFYnGxeqcF6I1qugtpJGRels-OMwL3tt6_lw60gQcd2qp-sVSB9-OQCIjMgh0X0SGQ1gRz-dKbkbG21n4NFcJZ-9jPPg3mdUY5uSD5saymuofqpvEOiS_1xCenHnvrR57YbdipDQMoNMNkyT6AMhvP5OZR0yP0oQRQ_0XN2pjDM/s4032/IMG_9453.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGG7Mt9oumUtcXB37DaFYnGxeqcF6I1qugtpJGRels-OMwL3tt6_lw60gQcd2qp-sVSB9-OQCIjMgh0X0SGQ1gRz-dKbkbG21n4NFcJZ-9jPPg3mdUY5uSD5saymuofqpvEOiS_1xCenHnvrR57YbdipDQMoNMNkyT6AMhvP5OZR0yP0oQRQ_0XN2pjDM/w640-h480/IMG_9453.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><p>Going down was quicker but we had to be careful as the trail became muddier. Thankfully, there are shower facilities at the registration area so we were able to wash off before going back to Manila. </p><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Hiking Info</b><br />Registration Fee - 40 Pesos/head<br />Guide Fee - 500 Pesos per mountain<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>How to get to Mt. Lantik jump-off </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>By car </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">In Google maps, search for “Mt. Talamitan Jump Off” . Link <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/4VZkj1MbdMCk2noTA" target="_blank">here</a>. Parking is available for a small fee. There are shower areas and restrooms at the jump-off. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>By public transportation</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">From Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (<a href="https://www.pitx.ph/" target="_blank">PITX</a>), take a bus going to Nasugbu and ask the conductor to let you off at Bayabasan Basketball Court in "Kanto ng Kayrilaw" (can be seen in Google Map) in Barangay Aga. From here, take a tricycle to Mt. Lantik/Talamitam jump-off, 2.9 KM away. DLTB (in LRT Gil Puyat Buendia) and Jam Liner (Taft Ave, Pasay) are the popular bus companies that ply the Nasugbu route from their terminals in Manila. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>For other easy hikes near Metro Manila, check out my posts on: </b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2024/03/pico-de-loro-day-hike-november-2023.html" target="_blank">Pico de Loro</a> (Ternate, Cavite)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2024/03/a-nice-and-easy-hike-up-mt-matinik-san.html" target="_blank">Mt. Matinik</a> </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px;">(San Miguel, Bulacan)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2022/05/easy-day-hikes-mt-palo-mt-tinucan.html" target="_blank">Mt. Palo/Tinucan</a> (Antipolo, Rizal)</span></div></div><br />Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-11017120654247889782023-08-18T21:39:00.004+08:002023-08-19T06:12:42.561+08:002.5 KM Open Water Swim in Lobo, Batangas | Swim Junkie Challenge<p>It's been 6 years since I joined an open water event (Swimjunkie Caramoan post <a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2016/10/surviving-my-first-swim-challenge-plus.html" target="_blank">here</a>) and though I haven't stopped swimming for fun since, I missed joining races that offer beautiful and challenging swim courses. Now on its 5th year, the Swimjunkie Challenge : VIP Lobo features a route passing the Verde Island Passage in Lobo, Batangas. Recognized as the <span>World's Center of Marine Shorefish Biodiversity, </span>it's known for its abundant marine life and interestingly for swimmers, strong currents! </p><p>I joined a shorter distance, a 2.5 KM and for the first time, swam alongside my younger sister. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQdbwSx67WidIIYvTlQXgjSGAiP61oMK9ugKbqlPDaZ7mNe7gvTP7Kn61S42OJwZMU0ZB2e2_2KSEbdZ-w8-hGVzndy2X6fSeLamOdAysl3JqSxhI8xICLLzk2PstO5waFjwxU2hDTIfaNUXmMbmocrW32ikKroi9z-IHR2nZACRD0ipIavvKTQsHRMU/s2048/IMG_9735.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQdbwSx67WidIIYvTlQXgjSGAiP61oMK9ugKbqlPDaZ7mNe7gvTP7Kn61S42OJwZMU0ZB2e2_2KSEbdZ-w8-hGVzndy2X6fSeLamOdAysl3JqSxhI8xICLLzk2PstO5waFjwxU2hDTIfaNUXmMbmocrW32ikKroi9z-IHR2nZACRD0ipIavvKTQsHRMU/w400-h266/IMG_9735.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>This swim, organized by Swimjunkie headed by Coach Betsy Medalla came with a worthwhile cause: </p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><i>"P</i></span><i><span style="color: #2b00fe;">erpetually under threat from overfishing, industrial operations, and pollution, the quiet beachside municipality of Lobo Batangas has shown the foresight to nurture more sustainable, environmentally responsible sources of income. Such as sports tourism. Because what happens in Lobo, happens to the Verde Island Passage."</span></i> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JgX7s1Q39uc3KEn4v2iQih_6xlZ4hjNxPkVemSsMaO34CASQSmH1uVLJ8MhSwXP7FNnWEcj8s-2F8s-cbmJOJvklvfVOwx5RJOXWfez5yAdaGZykIucXiRwdxAdnkRzwSmbYYC-YQpidCbvjVsTZ4lTiBp9ZBB1QYB9jQXuO2VHrYVK36XUi8KSpx20/s4032/IMG_9601.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JgX7s1Q39uc3KEn4v2iQih_6xlZ4hjNxPkVemSsMaO34CASQSmH1uVLJ8MhSwXP7FNnWEcj8s-2F8s-cbmJOJvklvfVOwx5RJOXWfez5yAdaGZykIucXiRwdxAdnkRzwSmbYYC-YQpidCbvjVsTZ4lTiBp9ZBB1QYB9jQXuO2VHrYVK36XUi8KSpx20/w400-h300/IMG_9601.HEIC" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Checking out the finish line</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>On the day of the race, we got up at 4:30 AM for a light breakfast of Pocari Sweat and bananas. After getting our bodies marked, we went into the water and finally - the actual swim! As the beach is filled with big rocks and pebbles, everyone had to start in the water to avoid injuries. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxdSAvmzzCJF9P3gGCzC2ogdtDHRtCf9JCkCHkGN0DcKe2VIiZrogfnHEWp_3kZjNY7h_EqROKiW9nQsne-SfPbV1tHcfr46NSSgNQJHFDGQvmfhsBo54i0KsgbBYCuA_6qzk0KvGWRVCj11fgJVyXnqPcalaXLPw6EIBYEIlIkupRGp5p5TZTcn6KKo/s4032/IMG_2505.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxdSAvmzzCJF9P3gGCzC2ogdtDHRtCf9JCkCHkGN0DcKe2VIiZrogfnHEWp_3kZjNY7h_EqROKiW9nQsne-SfPbV1tHcfr46NSSgNQJHFDGQvmfhsBo54i0KsgbBYCuA_6qzk0KvGWRVCj11fgJVyXnqPcalaXLPw6EIBYEIlIkupRGp5p5TZTcn6KKo/w400-h300/IMG_2505.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>final briefing before the race started</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Unexpectedly, the nerves came. I was caught off-guard and it felt like I was hit by huge waves that instantly swept me under - it was hard to breathe. My anxiety was so strong, I could't move my arms. I thought of backing out while the shore was just a few feet away. We had trained months prior, swimming 2-3x/week so it would have been a shame to just quit, but anxiety has this way of crippling you and making you think you're incapable of doing something you can actually do. </span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">Great thing my sister was there to calm me and urged me to push on. </span></div><p style="text-align: justify;"> I swam one stroke at a time, stopping frequently to breathe on an upright position. At this point, we were at the very tail of the bunch with the faster swimmers already 100 meters ahead. I started to pray. Thankfully, after about 10 minutes, I got over the anxiety and swam to my heart's delight. The view of mountains and the sun's rays hitting the shoreline on my right side was beautiful! As we passed a kilometer, the underwater life became more interesting. I reveled in the view of corals, fishes and even a big jellyfish! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzELA7VLQfG3P-QufdStPdTBrAN6ToQ5AmaaSJxWKWVcgTmQQSdIRpdXzk8GlIgyKMhEW7oGH9qXZ00-t19lQORZOlETX_oLWetj3o7kLwtSf1Mw4RiskfDISbuK3OAEunaTK-q4VsBz6zFI3njF_vXjhcPQHFP_R29mFHmetL1KzSaXA0gqibtxTtcCA/s977/Screen%20Shot%202023-08-19%20at%205.53.08%20AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="977" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzELA7VLQfG3P-QufdStPdTBrAN6ToQ5AmaaSJxWKWVcgTmQQSdIRpdXzk8GlIgyKMhEW7oGH9qXZ00-t19lQORZOlETX_oLWetj3o7kLwtSf1Mw4RiskfDISbuK3OAEunaTK-q4VsBz6zFI3njF_vXjhcPQHFP_R29mFHmetL1KzSaXA0gqibtxTtcCA/w400-h235/Screen%20Shot%202023-08-19%20at%205.53.08%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;">My sister and I planned to swim and cross the finish line together but since we were swimming slowly, we got caught up with the current. Soon, we found ourselves facing bigger waves, getting swept off course several times. We got separated about 200 meters from the finish line and it was hard to find each other in the water. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAK4sGB8HMn0-z0dBXStld3GZY5iLqtGD8VjGhDnUFg6HGOjpc5dznFHezlwgpI-MpTNaXNzcuAoCNiIxVx4Wmrnj2kvgNN1qSBu30POF0DfwntiHW4lw7TC0UOWvEVK8A3uIiBa59UUbxNQj2wWrA-LjxBdDN68JkjLJsZnd9CgKm-_UR0MCnWd0AE0/s3382/IMG_9606.heic" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><img border="0" data-original-height="2591" data-original-width="3382" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAK4sGB8HMn0-z0dBXStld3GZY5iLqtGD8VjGhDnUFg6HGOjpc5dznFHezlwgpI-MpTNaXNzcuAoCNiIxVx4Wmrnj2kvgNN1qSBu30POF0DfwntiHW4lw7TC0UOWvEVK8A3uIiBa59UUbxNQj2wWrA-LjxBdDN68JkjLJsZnd9CgKm-_UR0MCnWd0AE0/w400-h306/IMG_9606.heic" width="400" /></b></span></i></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>the race course. One length was 2.5 KM so 5 KM swimmers had to swim 2 loops.</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">I finished the 2.5KM swim at 1:45:08 and ranked 153 of 186 finishers in the 2.5KM over-all category, a slow time but enough to make it to the cut-off. I'm happy and looking forward to joining more open water swims in the future. </span></div><p style="text-align: justify;">The Swimjunkie Challenge: VIP LOBO 2023 was held on May 28, 2023. If you're keen on joining open water events in the Philippines, follow these accounts on Social Media : </p><p><b>Facebook :</b> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SwimjunkieChallenge" target="_blank">Swimjunkie Challenge</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066594701372" target="_blank">Philippine Open Water Swimming - POWS</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/POSCAPhilippineOpenwaterSwimCrossings" target="_blank">Philippine Openwater Swim Crossings Association</a> (if you're keen on swimming 3.5KM of the Maricaban strait in Batangas)</p><p><b>Instagram :</b> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/swimjchallenge/" target="_blank">@swimjchallenge</a></p><p><b>Where to Stay in Lobo, Batangas</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The day before the event, we traveled with our support group - our friends and family. Due to room availability, we had to check-in 2 separate hotels. Since the starting line was at Punta Malabrigo beach resort, we stayed in nearby <a href="https://www.agoda.com/cerca-parola-beach-resort/hotel/puerto-galera-ph.html?finalPriceView=2&isShowMobileAppPrice=false&cid=1833981&numberOfBedrooms=&familyMode=false&adults=2&children=0&rooms=1&maxRooms=0&checkIn=2023-11-16&isCalendarCallout=false&childAges=&numberOfGuest=0&missingChildAges=false&travellerType=1&showReviewSubmissionEntry=false&currencyCode=PHP&isFreeOccSearch=false&isCityHaveAsq=false&tspTypes=4,-1&los=1&searchrequestid=4cdc2a0f-2249-4d3a-a8aa-99649473fb8e" target="_blank">Cerca Parola</a>, while the rest of the family checked-in at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TimeTravellersBeachResort" target="_blank">Time Travellers</a> resort, a 12-minute drive. Both offered simple but clean rooms with beach access, a pool and each own's salient features. Cerca Parola has a simple restaurant that offered affordable, delicious food and aromatic brewed barako coffee and is close to other dining establishments, while Time Traveller, located a little off the main road offered a quieter atmosphere and a nice sandy beachfront. We had booked both resorts online through the race organizers. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-67155357578355799402023-06-29T22:23:00.002+08:002023-06-30T14:16:23.547+08:00Activities to Enjoy During the Rainy Season<p>While the rainy season is often overlooked when it comes to seeking an adventure, this time of the year also offers plenty of other ways to have fun. Here are some suggestions on embracing heaven's downpour.</p><p><b>1. Travel</b></p><p>According to PAGASA, the Philippines' weather bureau, areas in Western Luzon, which includes Metro Manila and the Visayas will experience wet season (hello rainy days!) from May to October <i>(Source: <a href="https://www.rappler.com/nation/weather/pagasa-rainy-season-philippines-2023/" target="_blank">Rappler</a>). </i>As you know, the country has a 3rd major island, Mindanao which means other parts of the country still offer plenty of sunshine. If you've not yet traveled to this side, for a start, consider visiting Davao City, Siargao, Bukidnon (can be combined with a trip to Cagayan de Oro, where the closest airport is) and Camiguin. These places see plenty of local and foreign tourists, offer plenty of activities for food trip and wide range of accommodation to fit your budget. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MtJJS0plQc02zbAS2PeyQnxv8zBnjhiAbEn2IhyGXf0KTPanpeYRoJ0hWWBo_gQp_c73TV5uH-PeXuRGexojw-iddjw9oUoRLswtxnOaIfLV8w5r9HnOAGMMwTSN4hqPfKgFrgHLtm1m1rIhSoAS1yuFNV1nFXujz9-KOHVTLj0qJyiLcMbXihu2uKQ/s4032/IMG-4617.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MtJJS0plQc02zbAS2PeyQnxv8zBnjhiAbEn2IhyGXf0KTPanpeYRoJ0hWWBo_gQp_c73TV5uH-PeXuRGexojw-iddjw9oUoRLswtxnOaIfLV8w5r9HnOAGMMwTSN4hqPfKgFrgHLtm1m1rIhSoAS1yuFNV1nFXujz9-KOHVTLj0qJyiLcMbXihu2uKQ/w400-h300/IMG-4617.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>at Daluyan beach resort in Siargao</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Weather can be unpredictable so it's still best to check before proceeding with your trip. PAGASA expects 11-14 tropical cyclones to enter or form in the country from June to November. </p><p>If you enjoy the rain, activities like surfing is best during the rainy season. In Siargao, surfing season is October to May. </p><p><b>2. Play online games </b></p><p>If you prefer to relish the comfort of being indoors and enjoy online games, check out <a href="http://solitaire.org" target="_blank">solitaire.org</a> to indulge in their wide offering of ad-free online games. Experience nostalgia by playing Classic Solitaire, a card game, the first one I learned to play as a kid. It's configured with a shuffling card sound that sounds more like clucking but still nice to hear. Similar to the physical game, you can draw by 3 cards or a single card. While browsing the site, I noticed there are other variations of Solitaire too such as Klondike, Spider, Free cell and more!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1vVn_xRicyo5n3Q79Acu99NMXmDtPKhoMP77V8Lq_6cYY8c_Mg0ob4SP72hk21ydQBnWczxSB6M0kJFTv6UtH_Zm2gBhMIEy6Rv7iBdJlBeEMuf-x4rYqgdGcDA-KD-WJblXMfzXoyHW_O8-bAjC2btSP5T38WRlu5EZwIZJN15-ZkvmzrHofFdZZm-k/s2840/Screen%20Shot%202023-06-26%20at%208.50.46%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1148" data-original-width="2840" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1vVn_xRicyo5n3Q79Acu99NMXmDtPKhoMP77V8Lq_6cYY8c_Mg0ob4SP72hk21ydQBnWczxSB6M0kJFTv6UtH_Zm2gBhMIEy6Rv7iBdJlBeEMuf-x4rYqgdGcDA-KD-WJblXMfzXoyHW_O8-bAjC2btSP5T38WRlu5EZwIZJN15-ZkvmzrHofFdZZm-k/w640-h258/Screen%20Shot%202023-06-26%20at%208.50.46%20AM.png" width="640" /></a></div></div><p>Apart than Solitaire, there are plenty of others games to try. Just go to the header or scroll further down the main page. Other games I've tried and enjoyed playing is <a href="https://www.solitaire.org/the-palace-hotel/" target="_blank">The Palace Hotel</a>, an easy hidden objects game. The background music is relaxing and the difficulty is suited for someone who wants to unwind and not overthink. For an exciting vocabulary challenge, check <a href="https://www.solitaire.org/letter-scramble/" target="_blank">Online Letter Scramble</a>.</p><p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBkHq4robO-kjwWOGcbh3Zcvu6vgw0Uv4h9hf9A4fQnCQV30iUzIzfgtUjPLUKIXoK1HvCom96xxMShUJwlMu6AG-tAPuUHnWByQCtL394ARiexRu52G5GNMkgBGaxAPzhk3nZlg2-c11Y0ijdW3mgox5ZhXQPPuxa3VfztMoodQDX6K5RXcTcPsiXeug/s757/Screen%20Shot%202023-06-29%20at%206.44.57%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="757" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBkHq4robO-kjwWOGcbh3Zcvu6vgw0Uv4h9hf9A4fQnCQV30iUzIzfgtUjPLUKIXoK1HvCom96xxMShUJwlMu6AG-tAPuUHnWByQCtL394ARiexRu52G5GNMkgBGaxAPzhk3nZlg2-c11Y0ijdW3mgox5ZhXQPPuxa3VfztMoodQDX6K5RXcTcPsiXeug/w400-h160/Screen%20Shot%202023-06-29%20at%206.44.57%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></p><p><br /></p><p><b>3. Visit a Food Hub</b></p><p>Within Metro Manila, there are plenty of food hubs that offers indoor seating, making it convenient for those who want to savor comfort food on a rainy day. </p><p>Gyud Food is a recently opened food hub across the Fine Arts building in UP Diliman, Quezon City. The space both offer indoor and outdoor dining. The space is huge with tables set far apart. The food stalls have a wide variety of offerings from local to international, snacks to filling dishes. </p><p>Other options include The Alley by Vikings BGC and Greenfield District which has plenty of restaurants clustered together so it won't be hard to go around even when it's raining. </p><p><b>4. Go to a Museum</b></p><p>Located in Manila, you can find a cluster of government museums that houses important artifacts and works related to the arts and sciences. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NHwkfI9TsJz0hM0KpPO287sWJ4PRvwg8n2rHINkUbQCyh68bw_c8PJm6cYey8PfHlhx9VWaKtMDWfvLL5spO_ca_VFT1OQi1BlGccQbAH2KBAcsCuCkpZ5FX24DxtAj104xXF1DUg4FuUHzMS5mj50Ba31UsF2cnGEGHveqUz_9zIoq6IWSAoJfPmi0/s4032/IMG-3500.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NHwkfI9TsJz0hM0KpPO287sWJ4PRvwg8n2rHINkUbQCyh68bw_c8PJm6cYey8PfHlhx9VWaKtMDWfvLL5spO_ca_VFT1OQi1BlGccQbAH2KBAcsCuCkpZ5FX24DxtAj104xXF1DUg4FuUHzMS5mj50Ba31UsF2cnGEGHveqUz_9zIoq6IWSAoJfPmi0/w400-h300/IMG-3500.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Inside National Museum of Fine Arts</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>The National Museum of Fine Arts, National Museum of Anthropology, and National Museum of Natural History are open Tuesdays to Sundays (except religious holidays) from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 30 minutes before closing. Entrance is free for both local and foreign visitors. Do note that business hours can be cut short due to special events so I recommend getting in touch with them through inquiry@nationalmuseum.gov.ph/ (+632) 8298-1100 or follow them on Instagram, @natmuseumph where they put up their notice. </p><p>In case you want to spend the night, there are several accommodations nearby which you can book by getting in touch with the hotel directly or via booking sites. </p><p>Other museums include Yuchengco and Ayala Museum in Makati and Art in the Island in Cubao. </p><p><b>5. Read a Book</b></p><p>If you're a book hoarder, take this an opportunity to finish at least one from your pile. For those who are looking for recommendations, there are plenty of lists or online or you can ask for recos through your social media accounts. My recent favorite reads are Almond by Sohn Won-Pyung, The Battle of Marawi by Criselda Yabes and Gideon Lasco's, The Philippines is Not a Small Country. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-35724415200433448162023-05-16T20:07:00.002+08:002023-05-17T05:47:07.847+08:00A Quick Hike up Mt. Nabekanmuri (鍋冠山公園) and Day Tour in Nagasaki, Japan - April 2023<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfH-B2njcCjoUk3jvSh1DJv--Fa-KlnSxjXHO02MU-zVvCFTU0Sj5h5UvS-vpu-YqTX7qPh7mz8TRQhfqOCKTFrTZhWHSiHQecgSwBFmyeLKXtDz2MbOGDxY6AQ3TEdxUbqg3NMmzCKw6sDzuDU_K4YPhNAN_aApYAzeRR-DXhgQ6PERSqQT1LeX3/s3454/IMG_8586.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2591" data-original-width="3454" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfH-B2njcCjoUk3jvSh1DJv--Fa-KlnSxjXHO02MU-zVvCFTU0Sj5h5UvS-vpu-YqTX7qPh7mz8TRQhfqOCKTFrTZhWHSiHQecgSwBFmyeLKXtDz2MbOGDxY6AQ3TEdxUbqg3NMmzCKw6sDzuDU_K4YPhNAN_aApYAzeRR-DXhgQ6PERSqQT1LeX3/w400-h300/IMG_8586.HEIC" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>view from the top of Mt. Nabekanmuri</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>From Hotel Belleview Dejima, I headed out for a late morning hike up Mt. Nabekanmuri. With the route passing beautiful attractions such as Dejima Omotemon Footbridge and Nagasaki Seaside park, I stopped often to bask in the scenery of colorful flowers and the water. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0Q2E4tLymqfW_l_OfHjm5uH9nQxVYVVy3-mV4DrpZRdmrCy80xXqoDJ4LnuMqFdg3gn46_-quTXb0Gf11IE5H53e-jbDS4JLEYBZ-5ryFWG-a-M67sbRx86b1U3YJUbL74vRbwQQWNUWRhWlb3AkdrBIlzKOy7vld5TnGuVIUuRCiweOjnatRXUE/s4032/IMG_8524.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0Q2E4tLymqfW_l_OfHjm5uH9nQxVYVVy3-mV4DrpZRdmrCy80xXqoDJ4LnuMqFdg3gn46_-quTXb0Gf11IE5H53e-jbDS4JLEYBZ-5ryFWG-a-M67sbRx86b1U3YJUbL74vRbwQQWNUWRhWlb3AkdrBIlzKOy7vld5TnGuVIUuRCiweOjnatRXUE/w400-h300/IMG_8524.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><p>Following Google map (link <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/VfDeeyHDpsBnKsNm9" target="_blank">here</a>), the 2.2 KM route cut through neighborhoods and a small forested section. A challenging surprise awaits near the base of the mountain, a steep set of stairs! Though an elevator is available, I opted to walk all the way. I needed the workout anyway. From here, I took frequent breaks to catch my breath. Alternatively, one can take a car or taxi to the parking lot and walk 5 minutes to the top which makes this mountain accessible to everyone. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtMCidw7NQnZTPqxQMoYUU2_W3bdgdkQpIPXAW_blXZyFq8iNzIi1E73a187uZgTYy9M2WtF5HylMW6S-weCtVeAkjYMMa-83XIZdbM3xjR6gr7Rf9w5HINIyNe1fRGWdJChye6jOfiRIHVL6on0r1hq2UlIb1ejbrwcoA6iq9_XbW2FkjTJ1v38TV/s4032/IMG_8541.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtMCidw7NQnZTPqxQMoYUU2_W3bdgdkQpIPXAW_blXZyFq8iNzIi1E73a187uZgTYy9M2WtF5HylMW6S-weCtVeAkjYMMa-83XIZdbM3xjR6gr7Rf9w5HINIyNe1fRGWdJChye6jOfiRIHVL6on0r1hq2UlIb1ejbrwcoA6iq9_XbW2FkjTJ1v38TV/w400-h300/IMG_8541.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><p>It was past 11:00 AM when I reached the peak, quite late in the morning. Despite the heat, the wind was refreshing, one of the things I love about spring! From here, I could see an amazing view of the water, port and nearby mountains. I stayed for a long time until it got very hot. </p><p><span style="background-color: white;">With plenty of time, I headed to Glover Garden, entering from Gate 2 which is closer to Mt. Nabekanmuri. An outdoor museum featuring a beautiful garden, scenic views of the sea and Western-style houses of Nagasaki's early foreign residents, it's one of the city's main attractions. (<i>Entrance Fee : 620 Yen for adults. Visit <a href="https://glover-garden.jp/english" target="_blank">Glover Garden website</a> for more info on rates and opening hours)</i>. For snacks, I went to the tea house and tried their Castella cake and Dutch coffee. I stayed for a while here, enjoying the view from the window. </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ102uXlnwCVJ-d66G0tTDtNLmiYgzmn8qrDwM7Om0xQaqNXVOzzyuz6effptvRALrIZmlhXxEGPj8lwRSlu7pns0sOLDZe7STYvVzqe-ybABp0ZuWKXlu3Kw_zKEY3hfFx01W2nsa7cT2T11YwaYJaonkmkayOz5Y50spWs9OjWAwJjetfMy5MTio/s4032/IMG_8636.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ102uXlnwCVJ-d66G0tTDtNLmiYgzmn8qrDwM7Om0xQaqNXVOzzyuz6effptvRALrIZmlhXxEGPj8lwRSlu7pns0sOLDZe7STYvVzqe-ybABp0ZuWKXlu3Kw_zKEY3hfFx01W2nsa7cT2T11YwaYJaonkmkayOz5Y50spWs9OjWAwJjetfMy5MTio/w400-h300/IMG_8636.HEIC" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dutch iced coffee and Castella cake served at Glover Garden's tea house.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />From Glover Garden, I walked to Oura cathedral. There's entrance fee to be paid to get inside so I just skipped it. A few blocks out, I saw a more interesting stop for a foodie like me - Nagasaki Minami Yamate Pudding! It's a small shop selling puddings that come in different flavors. <div><br /><div><div> As I wandered the streets in Nagasaki, I found myself going up and down a lot! It's a hilly city which makes it ideal for someone like me who's trying to get fit again. </div><div><div><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;">The sun was still up so at Dejima station, I hopped on a tram to the Atomic Bomb Museum</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;">then walked to Peace Park to before ending my day to try the infamous Turkish rice at Tsuruchan</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;">(ツル茶ん 本店) restaurant. I love carbs so this easily became one of my trip's highlights - an unusual combination of tonkatsu, Japanese spaghetti, salad and rice in one plate. It's a notoriously filling dish that some are unable to finish a complete serving. As it was my first full meal of the day at 6 PM, I gobbled everything effortlessly. </span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijQo73NGGl98puZT85GvJ6kfkeccryy-yCsCwe_oOXrp7lwDf6iuUbHpFlEEdKsHNf2JCwufpFIiqmiBofcwndQxprffIPwv-w1_0GofSgwboWvFkb7b_LxRGfzjOqa1hmQXQU_6l7_SU5qnqJRmPLQc7wJN-VR1o5PqUWJPtvzsLuE-BvblLpMwRD/s4032/IMG_8720.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijQo73NGGl98puZT85GvJ6kfkeccryy-yCsCwe_oOXrp7lwDf6iuUbHpFlEEdKsHNf2JCwufpFIiqmiBofcwndQxprffIPwv-w1_0GofSgwboWvFkb7b_LxRGfzjOqa1hmQXQU_6l7_SU5qnqJRmPLQc7wJN-VR1o5PqUWJPtvzsLuE-BvblLpMwRD/w400-h300/IMG_8720.HEIC" width="400" /></span></i></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Turkish rice - one of Nagasaki's infamous dishes. <br />The origin of its name is not known and you can read up<br />several theories about it online. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>Hiking Information </b></p><p>Google map link to Mt. Nabekanmuri Park <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/VfDeeyHDpsBnKsNm9" target="_blank">here</a>. </p><p>There are no fees to be paid during your hike. </p><p>Nagasaki can be reached by train (Travel time : 1.5-2 hours) from Hakata station in Fukuoka. For train schedules, you can check with Google Maps. </p><p>Date of Hike : April 2023, Spring</p><p><b>Helpful Sites when Planning your Nagasaki trip</b></p><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://nerdnomads.com/nagasaki-itinerary#day_2_%e2%80%93_nagasaki_itinerary" target="_blank">Nerd Nomads | What To Do In Nagasaki – A 2-Day Nagasaki Itinerary</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2162.html" target="_blank">Japan Guide | Nagasaki</a></div><p></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Related Post<br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">Few days prior, I also hiked Mt. Yufu in Oita prefecture, check out my post - <a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2023/05/a-beautiful-spring-day-hike-in-mt-yufu.html" target="_blank">A Beautiful Spring Day hike in Mt. Yufu (Oita)</a> </span></h4><p></p></div></div></div></div>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-5092925616608190122023-05-13T20:06:00.003+08:002023-05-14T16:55:20.598+08:00A Beautiful Spring Day Hike in Mt. Yufu (由布岳), Japan - April 2023<div style="text-align: left;">Japan offers plenty of scenic trails for people of different fitness levels so hiking has been a must-do for me whenever I visit the country. On this return trip, I went to Mt. Yufu (由布岳), a prominent landmark in Oita prefecture and a worthwhile outdoor adventure from Fukuoka, where I had spent the night after flying in from Manila. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />From Hakata station, I took the 7:43AM Yufu 1 Limited express train to Yufuin station (Travel Time : 2 hr 20 minutes.) Then, a scenic 15-minute bus ride to the trailhead at "Yufu Tonzanguchi"bus stop. The view from the left window side of the bus offers sweeping views of Mt. Yufu as it zigzags along the highway. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif-1Fn7Q2ML2Lcqtm9YPTeTSKag-fJZYArsTbZAPfxGw_9cAG6pfcM8F6cMNCwl8RtZ27m3I_F5_nwgcuX8IpgjcnEg0yggraJ3aWpDA14l7RxrDjibGbOyDUA50cftD2lA5YWTNqvfoYMjZtRcrM8CXXS3VYUvyFVcm4LwtrFm0yvNHdh-LmrdJYz/s4032/IMG_8192.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif-1Fn7Q2ML2Lcqtm9YPTeTSKag-fJZYArsTbZAPfxGw_9cAG6pfcM8F6cMNCwl8RtZ27m3I_F5_nwgcuX8IpgjcnEg0yggraJ3aWpDA14l7RxrDjibGbOyDUA50cftD2lA5YWTNqvfoYMjZtRcrM8CXXS3VYUvyFVcm4LwtrFm0yvNHdh-LmrdJYz/w400-h300/IMG_8192.HEIC" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">beautiful clear day at the start of my hike.</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The bus stopped just a few feet from the entrance of the Main Trailhead trail, the most popular of the 3 routes going to the summit.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrg63CatPsNJkhBlyZRf5KYqPi5XCflnnL4kuNVlyYmHdIL4mAg2NmbInYZC4sInbDRvUH9tX6Unk9rd9NC090aMZiVjS55j9CM4YxaCDOzawW_3IMk4spO6OT6UfJ86Cnw4dH8HGz2WvtfWJgjKaZVtnrgzf5jIkN-110SEn3qYoOK29J_ZOqOiy/s3723/IMG_8250.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2792" data-original-width="3723" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrg63CatPsNJkhBlyZRf5KYqPi5XCflnnL4kuNVlyYmHdIL4mAg2NmbInYZC4sInbDRvUH9tX6Unk9rd9NC090aMZiVjS55j9CM4YxaCDOzawW_3IMk4spO6OT6UfJ86Cnw4dH8HGz2WvtfWJgjKaZVtnrgzf5jIkN-110SEn3qYoOK29J_ZOqOiy/w400-h300/IMG_8250.HEIC" width="400" /></span></b></i></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">One hour (maybe less for some) into the hike and you're already offered <br />these nice views! pwede na bumaba. LOL.</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The hike started on an easy, mild ascent - a wide open trail where you could see the mountain in front of you. Though it was a little past 11:00 AM, it was cool and very windy, some of my baby hair flapped wildly on my forehead! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Soon, I'm inside a shady woodland surrounded by leafless trees. Most of the trail signs are in Japanese so I had to use an offline version of Google Translate to figure out what was written. Still, the route was easy to follow. In less than an hour, I reached a junction which offers two approaches to the summit - via the West Trailhead and my pick, Main Trailhead. The trail started getting steeper and my rest stops became more frequent. I was exerting a lot more energy than I thought. At one point, I had to take a break along the bushes for a quick onigiri break and orange juice so I can continue walking.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjABCyHTTFFqff0fmniff0l2WctOQCXiMK1wncfJLxhyCfK1SNlnoInw6Svilgaku_CuNf_0dv0cDavdPM0MvkfzdZCs5TfG9k11P5hJ0iUAqe4eqvL3X-BqiHDCraZky7n1IV53GSBK6h__pAbfxOIEAEUDwOuI9NeRh9_F9zx376amJZSrjz8EenJ/s3625/IMG_8259.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2719" data-original-width="3625" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjABCyHTTFFqff0fmniff0l2WctOQCXiMK1wncfJLxhyCfK1SNlnoInw6Svilgaku_CuNf_0dv0cDavdPM0MvkfzdZCs5TfG9k11P5hJ0iUAqe4eqvL3X-BqiHDCraZky7n1IV53GSBK6h__pAbfxOIEAEUDwOuI9NeRh9_F9zx376amJZSrjz8EenJ/w400-h300/IMG_8259.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The views started becoming more scenic. Along the trails are vantage points where you can enjoy a view of the nearby towns and mountains. Being a weekend, I ran into a handful of fellow hikers. I was happy to see people, albeit my limited Japanese that devoid me of substantial conversations. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNANagIKI-5vJSeNC36AoCctsqal-UfTM1Qg5AuDlZtwnU-Vl_w0xVsmA9cuvgIDoJyYWzwa5bc6soPcfHcpEk1PWksSlsQGJwn8UHvSsPHOUlMg5ErOUsh4atCxmMf8bVuGcytbZgWESq4_nPdqA8QCTo0IJJgTirG9_AdORz8Nj0dDrWb9rUb86H/s4032/IMG_8264.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNANagIKI-5vJSeNC36AoCctsqal-UfTM1Qg5AuDlZtwnU-Vl_w0xVsmA9cuvgIDoJyYWzwa5bc6soPcfHcpEk1PWksSlsQGJwn8UHvSsPHOUlMg5ErOUsh4atCxmMf8bVuGcytbZgWESq4_nPdqA8QCTo0IJJgTirG9_AdORz8Nj0dDrWb9rUb86H/w400-h300/IMG_8264.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">At 1:40 PM, I reached the saddle. Here, you can go to East or West peak - about 10-20 minutes away. Seeing the steep, rocky sections, I chose neither, letting my acrophobia win this time. The sun's heat was blazing but weather was still chilly so I picked a spot beside a rock for some shade and enjoyed a late lunch while quietly enjoying the view. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hpVMVedqVGwOrs4VmczsC8VkAVkbeATgaGh4KlDSV9Y_RznFrkAi3VZYRnjvQYGaFu3OMRrSy0ZXPMChaDr9MJ_0U4ZY3NBfJRQzXzNet3G2Vwef8Afjk6z2EJ415mJ4SN2aFRN55SF-dFDe0OT4RTQSgwer3iX6nS1M-BTV-EyaWIrPavaagwt3/s4032/IMG_8270.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hpVMVedqVGwOrs4VmczsC8VkAVkbeATgaGh4KlDSV9Y_RznFrkAi3VZYRnjvQYGaFu3OMRrSy0ZXPMChaDr9MJ_0U4ZY3NBfJRQzXzNet3G2Vwef8Afjk6z2EJ415mJ4SN2aFRN55SF-dFDe0OT4RTQSgwer3iX6nS1M-BTV-EyaWIrPavaagwt3/w400-h300/IMG_8270.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I got back to the trailhead past 3:00 PM which gave me plenty of time to change clothes and get back to Yufuin station for the 5:11 PM train back to Hakata. I was looking forward to the sweet finale of my day trip - riding the infamous Yufuin no Mori train while eating a bento box and citrus ice cream!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcOHrJ6ear2CSKgUsTqxGl1iRqVt87B8o29tD3OyYKj3Xcm4n-cdgXsFsC4gE0RaqQK62261jrVUkf0AH6DOpS-qPbR6Rp01galj_GXDbRcIXU_hwnWUyrlNnkMa9LBVk6Dp5iDS3jmS9ZBEYZW1YCmLeXteCp5stE5hWBQ6MDhfMxRRJ3r03AwSKP/s4032/IMG_8282.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcOHrJ6ear2CSKgUsTqxGl1iRqVt87B8o29tD3OyYKj3Xcm4n-cdgXsFsC4gE0RaqQK62261jrVUkf0AH6DOpS-qPbR6Rp01galj_GXDbRcIXU_hwnWUyrlNnkMa9LBVk6Dp5iDS3jmS9ZBEYZW1YCmLeXteCp5stE5hWBQ6MDhfMxRRJ3r03AwSKP/w400-h300/IMG_8282.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Hiking Information :</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p><b><i>How to get to Mt. Yufu from Hakata Station, Fukuoka</i></b></p><p>From Hakata station, take a train going to Beppu and alight at Yufuin station (Travel Time is 2 hr+). For this train ride, I used a North Kyushu JR Pass (bought from Klook) and booked a reserved seat at the JR Kyushu ticket office in Hakata station. For train schedules, I relied on Google maps. You can also check the <a href="https://kyushurailpass.jrkyushu.co.jp/" target="_blank">JR Kyushu Site.</a> From Yufuin station, walk towards the bus terminal and get off at Yufu Tozanguchi bus stop. Travel time is 15 minutes. The terminal is small and only 1 bus departs at a given time. To make sure you're getting on the right bus, ask one of the English-speaking staff. </p><p>The bus will stop just a few feet from the Main Trailhead entrance. You'll pay for the fare when you get off. You can also use an IC card like Suica or Sugoca (I used Suica). There are no registration fees or permits to be paid. <span>There's a resting area and restrooms across the trailhead. There are no stores and I didn't notice a vendo machine here so you'll need to get your supplies in Hakata or Yufuin station. </span></p><p>I used the English hiking map of Mt. Yufu that I downloaded<a href="https://www.city.yufu.oita.jp/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/mtyufumapeng.pdf" target="_blank"> here.</a> Average hiking time, in and out of the trail is 4-5 hours depending on which peak you visit. </p><p>Google Map Link to Mt. Yufu Main Trailhead <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/fMjYW1CGwXbrSvgL9" target="_blank">here.</a></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgGExGBd8N8V60Pch8PcmI--upuCHZKbAqN8TcUyv2apjbJqWiCHE5mtHQ0PMN2lo32XDGEQ4aEy93A-3f4zlj-LS-UkWfrWIscr5vi64tYCXNeCLVNZjBm3trGJdkZJbhF3FJ7Bqi6ZCBie7kUUpqAvzevu9yPv1CohfZ7DQiPYXoft5Hs9eVGq2/s3667/IMG_8177.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2768" data-original-width="3667" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgGExGBd8N8V60Pch8PcmI--upuCHZKbAqN8TcUyv2apjbJqWiCHE5mtHQ0PMN2lo32XDGEQ4aEy93A-3f4zlj-LS-UkWfrWIscr5vi64tYCXNeCLVNZjBm3trGJdkZJbhF3FJ7Bqi6ZCBie7kUUpqAvzevu9yPv1CohfZ7DQiPYXoft5Hs9eVGq2/w400-h303/IMG_8177.HEIC" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Entrance to Main trailhead trail</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Train Pass (JR Pass) </b>- Since my itinerary involved traveling around North Kyushu, I purchased a 5-day North Kyushu JR Pass from Klook to save on costs (PHP 5,695.40). This allows you to take unlimited JR train rides in the North Kyushu area including the special train, Yufuin no Mori (some exclusions may apply so check the terms before booking). After booking, you'll receive a voucher via email, along with redemption instructions that I found easy to follow. To purchase via Klook, go <a href="https://www.klook.com/en-PH/activity/2371-jr-kyushu-jr-pass/?spm=SearchResult.SearchResult_LIST&clickId=130baae6b1" target="_blank">here</a>. </p><p>If taking the ever popular Yufuin no Mori train, you will need to reserve a seat. Here's a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14kXCtGuOLw&t=92s" target="_blank">video guide on how to book reserved seat ticket at a Reserved Seat Ticket Vending Machine</a> . </p><p>In case you encounter issues getting a ticket from the vending machine, helpful and friendly English speaking staff are on standby. </p></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Taking the Yufuin no Mori Train </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">After receiving my JR pass voucher from Klook, I reserved Yufuin no Mori train seats through <a href="https://kyushurailpass.jrkyushu.co.jp/reserve/" target="_blank">JR Kyushu Rail Pass Online Booking. </a> I also pre-booked my meal through one of the links in the site. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Where I stayed in Fukuoka </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.booking.com/Share-etMy7V" target="_blank">TKP Sunlife</a> - this hotel is right across Hakata Station, ideal if you're catching an early morning train. I booked my stay through Booking.com and didn't have any issues. The bed was a little hard though and there was just one pillow in my room. I recommend checking the room size if you're bringing luggages. I stayed in a 11 SQM single room and it was just right for me and my 25L backpack. Nevertheless, I love its cleanliness and proximity to Hakata station. It was easy to spot coming out of the local subway so I'll probably stay here again. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Previous hikes in Japan <a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2017/07/hiking-in-kyushu-japan-plus-travel-tips.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-2258920192735680752023-05-01T17:47:00.002+08:002023-05-14T17:00:24.837+08:00Mt. Manabu - My Year-end Hike<p>To cap off 2022, I went for a hike in Mt. Manabu, a 760+ meter peak in Sto. Tomas, Batangas. Easy to reach by private or public transportation, with plenty of nice food stops on and off the trail, it has become of my favorite hikes near Manila. </p><p>It was a holiday. Thankfully, traffic was pretty light. By 9:20 AM, I was making my way up the mountain. Although you're required to register at Barangay Sta. Cruz, guides are not mandatory which is also one of the reasons why I enjoy going to Manabu. </p><p></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Note : If you're going for the first time, hiring a guide is recommended. The first 15 minutes of the trail can get confusing. Near the base of the mountain, there are several houses and farms so you'll find paths that lead somewhere else. To save time and help bring more business to the locals, secure a guide. Plenty of them are waiting at the registration area.</span></i></h4><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-TUDqqMgppkResGxu00uUnRbe5CwHBYE68Ew-H5OGZSbDWW6NLZIlcOksld8vTpTZ4oKaU6APZeVaR1LJfsJ6v2VkxMOyf2tWL56-FHLXcfNE98j3o5u5j3f7JE4k5b3bW3jhyjkODNcGCjBq2uDU4fefEM-0dKhKf3oIZcflR8GKIhDYberRtBC/s1800/BFDC03DE-5AC5-4709-9CE3-64F20DB7A1C8.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-TUDqqMgppkResGxu00uUnRbe5CwHBYE68Ew-H5OGZSbDWW6NLZIlcOksld8vTpTZ4oKaU6APZeVaR1LJfsJ6v2VkxMOyf2tWL56-FHLXcfNE98j3o5u5j3f7JE4k5b3bW3jhyjkODNcGCjBq2uDU4fefEM-0dKhKf3oIZcflR8GKIhDYberRtBC/w320-h400/BFDC03DE-5AC5-4709-9CE3-64F20DB7A1C8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Tibig tree indicates a nearby water source. <br />True enough, along the trail, you'll pass by a river.</b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyOeC40TMri_thsPsGFA_cv0TFBI6Ivjmz5Wcpdx7CIjdVbXiLDXY8SdXvEJz9lnuE941Gf8ejrkiEIJ61x0sVBRNEF94gKkCgkLJ_5ELZdjKjRuC6qe70J4eH__lZ887K8aLg0wGyusqhPFB2Qehe8FoM6c-H0ZbAiNh_Yju1QvhMVFRWkpcSplR/s1800/52597BF2-544B-4D78-8A4D-C6BCE2AD34DF.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyOeC40TMri_thsPsGFA_cv0TFBI6Ivjmz5Wcpdx7CIjdVbXiLDXY8SdXvEJz9lnuE941Gf8ejrkiEIJ61x0sVBRNEF94gKkCgkLJ_5ELZdjKjRuC6qe70J4eH__lZ887K8aLg0wGyusqhPFB2Qehe8FoM6c-H0ZbAiNh_Yju1QvhMVFRWkpcSplR/w320-h400/52597BF2-544B-4D78-8A4D-C6BCE2AD34DF.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Looks like the tree is sporting a tattoo :) <br />Always fascinating to see.</i></b></td></tr></tbody></table></div></div><p>The weather was cold and gloomy - dark clouds everywhere, my kind of weather. But, when hiking in Mt. Manabu, it's not exactly a good thing. Rain made the trail very slippery and muddy. Normally, I wouldn't mind, but I had forgotten to bring a trekking pole and my overused shoes had lost its traction. I got so annoyed navigating through the muddy sections, I decided to head back after 1.5 hours of hiking, about 30 minutes from the summit. I'll visit the peak some other time. </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib6go3qddKCC_0Vbe-x5NgO4oN5U1nHsIgswpFPJRX3dTCl_CyaB0ddAltOxqzvt7DAGvDVcoTb5KV-vk1Phz7EYNtZMpXXExgRiDlUjGdimM_0Hpfe4xGa-9ufoWB4gwo6a6IX1hADohA2RTOJ3yqozjUAU-Epa_kr_L5K-GmYobULATnUgdxVUEZ/s1795/D4062F62-8748-4C5F-BA6C-CDBAE6880B40.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1795" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib6go3qddKCC_0Vbe-x5NgO4oN5U1nHsIgswpFPJRX3dTCl_CyaB0ddAltOxqzvt7DAGvDVcoTb5KV-vk1Phz7EYNtZMpXXExgRiDlUjGdimM_0Hpfe4xGa-9ufoWB4gwo6a6IX1hADohA2RTOJ3yqozjUAU-Epa_kr_L5K-GmYobULATnUgdxVUEZ/s320/D4062F62-8748-4C5F-BA6C-CDBAE6880B40.jpg" width="257" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>My shoes made squishy sounds as I hiked <br />which was entertaining.</b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />On my way down, I made my usual stop to relish the brewed coffee offered by Tata Tino for free. While he usually stays at his hut in Station 5, about 15-20 minutes from the summit, today he was at his relative's who owns a store, close to the jump-off. Here, I met a family of 3 and they treated me to fried lumpia. Yum! I also bought passion fruit so I can juice it. It was so cheap at 50 Pesos/kilo (less than 1 USD!). <p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUd7h6iMN4JkiFKH4qR4wl8T1ha0ZAkkGlU-HSpFBCmKxpipRTMIH4luUqfgP-frLOCXenBsiIDdUS0oIYUAA8ihdUxMqdFA3sk-AHipQr9an_1tGUYEJf_rG4bqfMv93ed6AfWcvnfVXGhar_VDbGw2Ch8A--5boVANeBRBSbF9jCru37Id1bTibk/s4032/IMG_5795.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUd7h6iMN4JkiFKH4qR4wl8T1ha0ZAkkGlU-HSpFBCmKxpipRTMIH4luUqfgP-frLOCXenBsiIDdUS0oIYUAA8ihdUxMqdFA3sk-AHipQr9an_1tGUYEJf_rG4bqfMv93ed6AfWcvnfVXGhar_VDbGw2Ch8A--5boVANeBRBSbF9jCru37Id1bTibk/w400-h300/IMG_5795.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>One of the resting areas along the trail where you can get snacks <br />or buy fresh produce.</b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>After washing up at the jump-off, I hurried home, taking a bus from SM Lipa so I can help prepare for our family's New Year's celebration. Thankfully, traffic was just as smooth as going here! </p><p><b>Hiking Information </b></p><i><b>How to get to Mt. Manabu </b></i><div>By Car:<br /><div>Link to Mt. Manabu Jump-off <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/aGhCp5Whx7KgQTPR7">here.</a> If driving, you can pin it to this location.<br /><br /></div><div>By Public Transportation:</div><div>From Manila, take a bus going to Lipa, Batangas</div><div>One of the bus companies that ply this route is Jam Liner. They have several terminals in PITX in Paranaque, SM Mega Mall and Buendia. </div><div>For schedules, check <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jamliner" target="_blank">Jam Liner Facebook Page</a>. Fare is less than 200 Pesos (sorry, I forgot the exact amount)</div><div><p>When you arrive in Lipa, ask the bus conductor to let you off near Fiesta Mall. There's a tricycle stand nearby. Just inform them you're heading to Mt. Manabu and they'll bring you to the registration area where you'll pay (30 Pesos). It's a popular destination so most tricycles would know how to get the jump-off in the area called "Sulok" in Barangay Sta. Cruz. You can refer to the jump-off's Google link above. From here, you can secure a guide. I don't know the exact rate but 500 Pesos for a group of 5 hikers is a reasonable rate when doing a short hike. The entire hike will take an average of 4 hours to complete (2 hours to the summit and roughly 1.5-2 hours down) .</p><p><b>Note </b>: Fees may change depending on local guidelines. </p><p><b>Where to Eat After Your Hike</b></p><p>Ijo Bakery is a popular shop offering delicious croissants, Danish and other pastries. It's in Big Ben Complex, along the highway in Lipa. There's no option to dine in as of December 2022. </p><p>You can also go to SM or Outlets in Lipa and check the food court or one of the restaurants. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Related Posts:</b></h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2012/02/for-love-of-hiking-2-days-6-peaks-in.html" target="_blank">2 Days 6 Peaks</a> (<span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mt. Malipunyo, Biak na Bundok and Mt. Manabu, </span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pico De Loro Traverse to Nasugbu, Mt. Talamitam and Mt. Batulao</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;">)<br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2015/07/mt-malipunyo-manabu-day-hike.html" target="_blank">Mt. Malipunyo-Manabu Day Hike Traverse<br /></a></span><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2008/02/mt-manabu-gulugod-baboy-climb-and-its.html" target="_blank">First Hike in Mt. Manabu (2008)</a></span></h4><br /><p></p></div></div>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-56186993617882630102023-03-10T21:30:00.767+08:002023-06-05T08:02:08.130+08:00A Solo Quiet Weekend in Dapitan (Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines)<p>Dapitan has always intrigued me. Apart from being the place of exile of our national hero, Jose Rizal, I don't really know much about this small city in Zamboanga del Norte. So when I found some free time, I flew to Dipolog from Manila, the closest airport to Dapitan, followed by a 45-minute bus ride. I walked the rest of the way to Travelbee Heritage Inn (booked via Agoda), where I stayed for 2 nights. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCV1QiSWk8UfA2JvaSxc5M1FUHbqLTMjXIlWFqiNh9eyoOFuuWxGUD_fcBbZybEUTld7FQ6uvke5stnyqOj7-z8NgmIxPNnk-xSvKfJWm36VaidEQa_MWcyXI8PjyH5cazgOeGF6-xuLmiG5eZLxCVGaEZ7o8jocHMBtwW_K2CEZCKODozz1u_N6bt/s4032/IMG_7527.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCV1QiSWk8UfA2JvaSxc5M1FUHbqLTMjXIlWFqiNh9eyoOFuuWxGUD_fcBbZybEUTld7FQ6uvke5stnyqOj7-z8NgmIxPNnk-xSvKfJWm36VaidEQa_MWcyXI8PjyH5cazgOeGF6-xuLmiG5eZLxCVGaEZ7o8jocHMBtwW_K2CEZCKODozz1u_N6bt/w400-h300/IMG_7527.heic" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">at Dakak Park and Beach Resort in Dapitan</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Since I was being spontaneous, I rented a bike at the inn (50 Pesos for 8 hours). It was the first time I'll get on one again after my accident in 2010 (I was biking downhill and crashed on a tree!) I was nervous and thrilled at the same time! For someone getting back in biking, Dapitan is an ideal place to do it. It's a small, quiet town with tourist spots close to each other. The roads are smooth and though there are plenty of vehicles, most of them drivers I encountered were careful so I found it easy to go around. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEQMwOnm0RxP0N1aAlV0FKFzxXxwLpCuvwlKjGG_wUZZmFndaz8Efkv3UiZvxlKEgDwwdvSAmEc-mjkh8IWTUYJi2OH6C4_BDQdXY5sNciENgIM7RgnOzzIYmWTaOUdJ2dWQ92q6ImzcfQWdnTleRPXHESYUbEy3mv35M-96fvZN4XTqsAuxAfR7H/s4032/IMG_7318.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEQMwOnm0RxP0N1aAlV0FKFzxXxwLpCuvwlKjGG_wUZZmFndaz8Efkv3UiZvxlKEgDwwdvSAmEc-mjkh8IWTUYJi2OH6C4_BDQdXY5sNciENgIM7RgnOzzIYmWTaOUdJ2dWQ92q6ImzcfQWdnTleRPXHESYUbEy3mv35M-96fvZN4XTqsAuxAfR7H/w400-h300/IMG_7318.HEIC" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table>My first stop was Localhost (Google map link <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/s1Uqf4a9WZdrbFn99" target="_blank">here</a>), a small cafe serving great coffee, with an adjoining co-working space. I enjoyed their coffee very much that I went back 2 more times over the weekend. </p><p><span style="text-align: justify;">From the cafe, I went to Sunset Boulevard and stopped at Punto de Dissembarco de Rizel en Dapitan, a historical monument depicting Jose Rizal's arrival in the city in 1892 after being exiled by the Spanish government, the colonizing regime at the time. </span><i style="text-align: justify;">"Rizal was exiled in Dapitan because like nearby Dipolog it was a Jesuit mission. It was hoped that the Jesuits could convince this Ateneo alumnus to turn away from his subversive and separatist ideas as well as his “shipwreck of Faith.” (From historian, Ambeth Ocampo's column, <a href="https://opinion.inquirer.net/105560/murmur-brook-dapitan#ixzz83cCltYcT" target="_blank">The murmur of a brook in Dapitan</a>)</i></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdz1qzo5itODYdkLdTYjQk6Y8xR4d4K5ovA9vTVg2xWuVONwDMMDGqbSv6h4qC0y0VyvqVnmZs3Ga9eQlj1JDfQKx2rphazP22HhMlkDf-tbJF36iExGMIM0rj8Md4-KRMOHdZWaY707rFRTD5Vq20Sp_XSvHm__z8-jVwYczWlq-ah1tnUBo6papQ/s4032/IMG_7353.heic" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdz1qzo5itODYdkLdTYjQk6Y8xR4d4K5ovA9vTVg2xWuVONwDMMDGqbSv6h4qC0y0VyvqVnmZs3Ga9eQlj1JDfQKx2rphazP22HhMlkDf-tbJF36iExGMIM0rj8Md4-KRMOHdZWaY707rFRTD5Vq20Sp_XSvHm__z8-jVwYczWlq-ah1tnUBo6papQ/w400-h300/IMG_7353.heic" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>at Sunset Boulevard, Dipolog</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p>After lunch in one of the eateries along the highway, I headed to Rizal Park and Shrine. More than just a park, it used to be owned by Jose Rizal, a purchase from winning the lottery, along with Carnicero and Francisco Equilior. </p><p>Entrance is free. I recommend going around with a government-accredited guide so you can appreciate the place more as they provide interesting trivia about Jose Rizal's life in Dapitan. My guide, sir Gary Oros was very enthusiastic and even toured me around the special, old trees in the park, some of which were already there during our hero's time! </p><p>It was mid afternoon, I'm dripped in sweat but the forest park is surrounded by thick foliage, that it was comfortable walking around. There's even a short hiking trail nearby which I'm reserving for a return trip when the weather is cooler. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIO0FO_ul46dNlEDTff2vUpQcNiiAWtTuqgqORmEluZ83aTzEYVpK2eob9f4LTsj377ZqvbpzOS0RJVlF-CKzoPxRYkyL2A7TVMWbcM8C9y-zgaq4QDwRW7cIBYoJ4EDzB4dKRhpE7x_fG0bELGvfP1aOf4kKKYloX16uxWev9pmCCkFll2Uw8K9P/s4032/IMG_7427.heic" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIO0FO_ul46dNlEDTff2vUpQcNiiAWtTuqgqORmEluZ83aTzEYVpK2eob9f4LTsj377ZqvbpzOS0RJVlF-CKzoPxRYkyL2A7TVMWbcM8C9y-zgaq4QDwRW7cIBYoJ4EDzB4dKRhpE7x_fG0bELGvfP1aOf4kKKYloX16uxWev9pmCCkFll2Uw8K9P/w400-h300/IMG_7427.heic" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>at Mi Retiro, a heart-shaped rock formation named after the poem <br />that Jose Rizal had written on the same spot. </b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>The next day, I headed to Dakak, the infamous beach resort of my youth - its commercial was relentlessly played whenever Eat Bulaga, the country's top variety show then, was on. To this day, I can hear the male voiceover at the back of my head! </p><p>There are no public transpo going to Dakak. To get here, I hired Kuya Gary who also drives a motorbike, same guide from Rizal Park. Just a note that there's limited cellphone signal at the reception of Dakak, at least for my network provider, Smart so it's best to agree with a pick-up time beforehand. He charged 250 Pesos for the ride going in and out of Dakak which is quite reasonable for the 30 minute travel. </p><p>Dakak's day tour rate is 1000 Pesos as of March 2023 (300 Pesos, consumable. Reservations, not required). This gave me access to pools, beach and its 5 restaurants. </p><p>The beach is impressive! At 7:30 AM, water was still, like a pool. The sand was clean, soft and powdery. The type you can roll-over on without any worries. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSmGBa8Ai-qLscueRTSgVACMizXRyjYalti5PRg4e2uOpzLo3SlX7T_6OvPK3RiwPsfFF0XTxZr8BHHl7X7KK2-DYWNkkG0I9BAqLVe5074ocQ8Dl42rigsRAH7uMuzgJnhEIHMDo4xfapEPsM5Lz9WJzVTgjI29hcQE5R7paCFIXyykXZpB2WmNyV/s4032/IMG_7518.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSmGBa8Ai-qLscueRTSgVACMizXRyjYalti5PRg4e2uOpzLo3SlX7T_6OvPK3RiwPsfFF0XTxZr8BHHl7X7KK2-DYWNkkG0I9BAqLVe5074ocQ8Dl42rigsRAH7uMuzgJnhEIHMDo4xfapEPsM5Lz9WJzVTgjI29hcQE5R7paCFIXyykXZpB2WmNyV/w400-h300/IMG_7518.HEIC" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dakak beach</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfbXqQmJwM6LjWHWUb0oDsB6RTFRP1w1i0a7Z3LjT4FoaYgEO_wAqcGFShvSyz0NxKPwuLBqCHz2uTqS4XlNCF4hd9GckU5zSVbFLBsD7oIFJKF3IiUcJeJ-fl-kqQR_HxVr-EAflrB3ihXczrEOKpo_AL7IVS04-kVFY1y4jWmD0-o-qK8elOx0Z/s4032/IMG_7548.heic" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfbXqQmJwM6LjWHWUb0oDsB6RTFRP1w1i0a7Z3LjT4FoaYgEO_wAqcGFShvSyz0NxKPwuLBqCHz2uTqS4XlNCF4hd9GckU5zSVbFLBsD7oIFJKF3IiUcJeJ-fl-kqQR_HxVr-EAflrB3ihXczrEOKpo_AL7IVS04-kVFY1y4jWmD0-o-qK8elOx0Z/w400-h300/IMG_7548.heic" width="400" /></b></span></i></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>snacking on coffee and kamote fries while looking at the water</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />There are a lot of activities you can try, jet ski, golf tours, horse riding and more. Still feeling sore from falling off the bike the previous day, I really just wanted to enjoy a quiet time and try the restaurants, while making a silent promise to return for a long swim. <div><br /></div><div>Before leaving Dapitan the following morning, I walked around town, passing by St. James the Greater Parish, another historical landmark in the city, where Jose Rizal heard mass during his time in Dapitan. A marker has been placed near the back of the church where he used to stand. It's located right across the plaza where one can find another one of Jose Rizal's coolest contributions, a relief map of Mindanao that allowed ordinary people to have a geographic reference. </div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDw-D1SvULPhOM-aT9SbBC9M43vwWjcbR1ooDKKTuRZSuroHuIyd4MxjazLs2ilF9tBwdoP4NBay11uLh-d64Xa0KOYVeMQCYGFZa5FhOywAtd4LIskkJhAVNfn5pQ7tUB6CMsqQQbpEAhZ6-o50yTOFPrLr0OiuiTEVoVeYUF7xCtr1qHKhpEAtbl/s4032/IMG_7589.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDw-D1SvULPhOM-aT9SbBC9M43vwWjcbR1ooDKKTuRZSuroHuIyd4MxjazLs2ilF9tBwdoP4NBay11uLh-d64Xa0KOYVeMQCYGFZa5FhOywAtd4LIskkJhAVNfn5pQ7tUB6CMsqQQbpEAhZ6-o50yTOFPrLr0OiuiTEVoVeYUF7xCtr1qHKhpEAtbl/w400-h300/IMG_7589.HEIC" width="400" /></b></span></i></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>a shot of St. James the Greater Parish and a section of the Relief Map <br />of Mindanao that Jose Rizal has created. </b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div><p><b>How to get to Dapitan </b></p><p>From Manila, I flew via Philippine Airlines to Dipolog City (book <a href="https://www.philippineairlines.com/" target="_blank">here</a>. Note : Be patient, the website is slow!). From Dipolog, I took a mini bus from the city terminal (Link to Google map <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/toVb3EzK6jQjj8LE8" target="_blank">here</a>). Travel time is 45+/- minutes. Going back to Dipolog was equally easy. Just take a Dipolog bound bus from <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/vf68wnV82LTxpzeR8" target="_blank">Dapitan City Bus Terminal</a> across the public market. </p><p><b>Where to Stay in Dapitan</b></p><p>Travelbee Heritage Inn </p><p><b>Where to Eat in Dapitan</b></p><p>I tried Tita Norma Butcher Cafe and enjoyed their chicken inasal. </p><p><b>Helpful Travel Blog </b></p><p>For more tips on traveling to Dapitan, check out this post by Tracking Treasure | <a href="https://www.trackingtreasure.net/2023/05/15/dapitan-zamboanga-del-nortes-stunner/" target="_blank">DAPITAN: ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE’S STUNNER</a></p><p><br /></p></div></div>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-40892089322448171362022-09-30T05:08:00.609+08:002023-08-24T08:05:39.841+08:00Hiking in Kol'tor Lake, Kyrgyzstan<div class="separator">I wanted to do at least one hike in our 2-week trip in Central Asia, so when we reached Kyrgyzstan, our second stop, I joined my friend, Gid (his blog <a href="http://www.pinoymountaineer.com/2022/09/hiking-matters-710-trekking-up-kol-tor-lake-in-kyrgyzstan.html" target="_blank">here</a>) on a day hike to Kol'tor (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/tgeTb4f9DcwWWdQ5A" target="_blank">Link to Google map</a>). </div><p>In winter, its lake freezes which makes for an interesting sight, but I've always had a penchant for nature's vibrant colors. As we did the hike in mid-September, autumn time, we were able to witness Kol'Tor's beautiful, turquoise lake! </p><p>Considered a medium-level difficulty hike, this popular day hike from the Kyrgyz capital takes 3-4 hours going up and another 2 hours going down, which is doable for someone like me who is trying to getting back in shape. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmvrbMza7DRJPfuScx6-4bEG8N9hgtHk8r_a6L6rFR9nQJtAcaqTGH0o3LXDVfrKnrSY2VEM8YXjWIVaNkCKC-NV8sCN-AT0TGYSbm2F-gaxpufwZjdzIu_YkD72LDZEPULd9oJPefzwO4e1zv9uCZj7A28ktEitNGWmnaTLHG6gBjWTLdm4IF7BEGi8/s3704/IMG_2736.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2778" data-original-width="3704" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmvrbMza7DRJPfuScx6-4bEG8N9hgtHk8r_a6L6rFR9nQJtAcaqTGH0o3LXDVfrKnrSY2VEM8YXjWIVaNkCKC-NV8sCN-AT0TGYSbm2F-gaxpufwZjdzIu_YkD72LDZEPULd9oJPefzwO4e1zv9uCZj7A28ktEitNGWmnaTLHG6gBjWTLdm4IF7BEGi8/w640-h480/IMG_2736.heic" width="640" /></a></div><p>From Navat Hotel in Bishkek, we were picked up by a private car (booked thru email via <a href="https://applehostel.kg/contact-apple-hostel/" target="_blank">Apple Hostel</a>). For a 2-hour ride to a remote countryside and back we were charged a reasonable rate of 4500 Som/2,866 PHP, gas included. </p><p>We started hiking at around 10 AM. Though late in the morning, the weather was still too cold for us that we had our jackets on the entire time (I wore a windbreaker and a dri fit shirt). From here, Gid took charge of navigating. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbU9qav35TMOn12XfNsEsHfgmmP4-OzxbKGDHq0dGN52TfHJP9jnoz1lWWVbkozdDUeyNsKTLfa2Nd7LpdLolvAedwd9cJYEja-EX28XyHdVZVyYLLSBF2ouQeDYCDZ4ukgp0i4oZob6YdmeI1GvUqAz2VZH0dhCOvYtkFzljBhhcUmf_thzqKnqthuo/s2876/IMG_2684.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2157" data-original-width="2876" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbU9qav35TMOn12XfNsEsHfgmmP4-OzxbKGDHq0dGN52TfHJP9jnoz1lWWVbkozdDUeyNsKTLfa2Nd7LpdLolvAedwd9cJYEja-EX28XyHdVZVyYLLSBF2ouQeDYCDZ4ukgp0i4oZob6YdmeI1GvUqAz2VZH0dhCOvYtkFzljBhhcUmf_thzqKnqthuo/w640-h480/IMG_2684.heic" width="640" /></a></div><p>The hike started easy on a flat terrain with a scenic view of mountains and yurt camps. Despite the lack of signs, the trail was easy to spot. From where the car dropped us off, we followed the route to the river. Here, we met a local family having their morning picnic. As we did not have a common language, they used a translator app to converse with us in English. They were very friendly and even shared their bread and grilled chicken. As we parted ways, they gave us these beautiful, plump apples grown from their garden. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdpPlOmg0exFNOMGvKTHceKEKj6vC5Rf7bhH5HPlsy6V77O3fV2pzLjOayMiH1JbnT8f5jAtX5hKcsSnOBzywSiTIlZcxE5WD4u1cDIEuLgDi_UPNU-XNGs44D4YTr4YoB4F6AuD6DTdXcll2m1tfE7q6GG0h8v6HBksb9-xocBcHulrt0rv9hW83bA4/s2978/IMG_2692.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2107" data-original-width="2978" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdpPlOmg0exFNOMGvKTHceKEKj6vC5Rf7bhH5HPlsy6V77O3fV2pzLjOayMiH1JbnT8f5jAtX5hKcsSnOBzywSiTIlZcxE5WD4u1cDIEuLgDi_UPNU-XNGs44D4YTr4YoB4F6AuD6DTdXcll2m1tfE7q6GG0h8v6HBksb9-xocBcHulrt0rv9hW83bA4/w640-h452/IMG_2692.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div><p>We finally reached the forest where we faced several short, steep sections and loose rocks. As we walked further up up to our destination at 2733 MASL, I stopped frequently to catch my breath. The trail was challenging for someone who hasn't exercised much plus the altitude, I had a tough time carrying myself up, whereas my friend could have easily breezed through it in 2 hours. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiun6v391wA6EOuxDStT3EPmOsCOmjrfhPCzkCPBXDIWUb6MPsIK5ZKteN30uaWRggG9YfYX31oZpBUK_xJck6Bz4hVXbWwwvTlD6TIafEBrsdk4rmAm2pUcXesz2WmqG52VYSyp7lsAigAdDVgI686io5VRdxGDPMzGs55UhYPsHjYHongM_-Hnv8e8uE/s3291/IMG_2756.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2806" data-original-width="3291" height="546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiun6v391wA6EOuxDStT3EPmOsCOmjrfhPCzkCPBXDIWUb6MPsIK5ZKteN30uaWRggG9YfYX31oZpBUK_xJck6Bz4hVXbWwwvTlD6TIafEBrsdk4rmAm2pUcXesz2WmqG52VYSyp7lsAigAdDVgI686io5VRdxGDPMzGs55UhYPsHjYHongM_-Hnv8e8uE/w640-h546/IMG_2756.heic" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">After 4 hours, including the half hour we spent by the river with the Kyrgyz family, we arrived at the lake. Breathlessly agonized and tired as I was, the moment I saw the milky blue hues of the water, I quickly dropped by backpack and wowed at the view. After snacks and a little rest, we headed down, a much easier task for me, though it can be grueling to the knees as most of the way is going downhill this time. </span></div><p>We were back in Bishkek in time for dinner where we enjoyed a celebratory meal at <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/KqXn9H14go1j4ii86" target="_blank">Torro Grill & Bar</a>, in the city center. </p><p><b>Helpful blog to plan your hiking trip to Kol-Tor Lake :</b> </p><p><a href="https://www.zoegoesplaces.com/kol-tor-lake/" target="_blank">Zoe Goes Places | Kol-Tor Lake</a></p><p><b>Visa Info :</b></p><p>We are Philippine passport holders so we secured an e-visa prior to coming to Kyrgyzstan by going to <a href="https://evisa.e-gov.kg/" target="_blank">evisa.e-gov.kg</a> (Go to Services tab). If you're a passport holder from another country, you can check if you need a visa by going to the same website, then click on Information (visa application requirements can also be found here). For a Single entry Tourist visa valid for one month, I paid around 51.50 USD. (Payment modes are also on the Information tab). I applied for a visa, one month before our trip and received it within 10 days, weekends included. </p><p><br /></p>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-77213557634926551202022-08-25T08:51:00.019+08:002022-08-25T11:03:21.569+08:007 Fun Things to Do While Waiting for Your Flight<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Hanging out in airports can be fun when it has amenities like beautiful gardens, lounges and nap areas. (Consider flying from one of the World's Top 10 Airports. View list <a href="https://www.worldairportawards.com/the-worlds-top-10-airports-of-2022/" target="_blank">here</a>). But, not all airports have a lot to offer. If you have a long layover and couldn't get out of the airport, take it as part of the adventure.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2173" data-original-width="3732" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOlndikDDkDE0A5W9FEuYcXix3jmaXGZbtLmvwK6KqqIZuhC5O1bfNKtdyBqU-xIbo9rPaSMeSZnfWaZs0VcknkpAP-zShOm6DFtBERn6hVPtxYZ54PVimXDBO5yL4tfmYdgIhV8w1bNbiGVgHMEImHghgz8HotLgk3buPvfXH1QANjggBYhTfDoj9/w640-h372/IMG_7218.jpeg" width="640" /></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here are some ideas on how you can enjoy your time while waiting for your plane <i>(or when you're on at home awaiting your next trip).</i></span></b></span></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">1. Read </span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">There's a huge genre of reading materials for everyone to indulge. Essay collections, poetry, comics, novels, e-books, webtoons, etc. If you find yourself dosing after a few pages on a book, it may not the right one for you. Go pick up a different one. When traveling, I like to pack books that are light and easy to read. Some of my favorites are books by Sophie Kinsella, Haruki Murakami, The Philippines is Not a Small Country by Gideon Lasco and essays by Jessica Zafra. For webtoons, I have Webtoon:Comics app on my phone. You can also browse online for book recommendations or ask on social media. <a href="http://GoodReads.com">GoodReads.com</a> has a simple and clean interface and I find it easy to scout for next reads here. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9H45pnTEtGUibVTXxE8zCwlkpkNitROj5IxJG6TRUK1Pe060wjpZ_RZfsP9gaTgO1he5WGow0ygZP33XPhI_EW1EBJmKh2KVMPccqprECT89TRtkZvIeuRGLxDNiTyeZSIIejPV-YQbi4kKxh3kRyyZuPRbM3WgoIfszhOtM5r0YQovLcSUc1TBU9/w640-h480/IMG_9102.jpeg" width="640" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2. Play Online Games</span></b></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">If you're looking for simple and fun games for kids or yourself, check out <a href="http://Plays.org" target="_blank">Plays.org</a>. This easy to navigate site offers thousands of free games that can be played on your browser like Apple Safari, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Opera and other modern web browsers. There's no need to download a new app or other software. It has no annoying ads getting in the way. and can be enjoyed on your tablet, laptop or mobile phone. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjEsbi9stYfjufCN9XJmx2SwG8Q057MCb1a8RaRxkqHJygVS4Ai1CpncA1BVWRmvGWd29uzNuB6Nm1ARZXfJR8ui5Ipw6abNbPBOqOws0djaTxECjxYmiI0GnKm-a9I6PoA_FumpHa3Gjx8k_ythFXw0OpXHxAJAnBYcLliQlJX08ylrItgnsq6rGH/s1300/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-17%20at%206.53.41%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1300" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjEsbi9stYfjufCN9XJmx2SwG8Q057MCb1a8RaRxkqHJygVS4Ai1CpncA1BVWRmvGWd29uzNuB6Nm1ARZXfJR8ui5Ipw6abNbPBOqOws0djaTxECjxYmiI0GnKm-a9I6PoA_FumpHa3Gjx8k_ythFXw0OpXHxAJAnBYcLliQlJX08ylrItgnsq6rGH/w640-h366/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-17%20at%206.53.41%20AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div style="text-align: justify;">There are games that made me feel nostalgic as it has the characters like the themed ones, <i>Bugs Bunny Dare Diver: High Diving Carrot Collecting Game </i> and <i>Garfield Coloring Book: Paint & Color Game</i>. Both games are recommended for kids and though I'm only a kid at heart now, I found these games entertaining and relaxing. Perfect if you want to get your mind off things. Hello adulthood! </div></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">There's also the good, old Classic Solitaire, the very first card game I learned to play. 2048 which became popular years ago is also available. I find moving the tiles, relaxing! There are also quiz games, like Geography Quiz. While it's meant for kids, I didn't breeze through all the questions and had to play it about 10x to get to the last question. Check out their wide range of <a href="https://plays.org/games/#thenav" target="_blank">categories</a> section to find a game that suits your taste. New games are added regularly and you can even contact them to suggest the ones you want to see on their site. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">3. Curate Your Music Playlist</span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_9tk1OJfbo1Oh2jeGAFp9Stl0Zl9rkzxqYeqHIOxkNtSQe5tJFK194udRShMgoH1bzO7k7BCeT4ML_vkHaCX5s9MI-ogFrzrSxLA5r3pXqMC53nNyFXor9_lds08eZq-jDWN31dGipienFzmR6Ahv7K3vF2_yZVqDciJ93WSvJdnF8Md-NzO2PHY/s1120/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-17%20at%207.12.43%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="1120" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_9tk1OJfbo1Oh2jeGAFp9Stl0Zl9rkzxqYeqHIOxkNtSQe5tJFK194udRShMgoH1bzO7k7BCeT4ML_vkHaCX5s9MI-ogFrzrSxLA5r3pXqMC53nNyFXor9_lds08eZq-jDWN31dGipienFzmR6Ahv7K3vF2_yZVqDciJ93WSvJdnF8Md-NzO2PHY/w640-h326/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-17%20at%207.12.43%20AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia; text-align: left;">Create a new playlist or manage existing ones. Good music is inspiring and an excellent mood booster. I'm subscribed to several music apps as part of a family plan that I share with my siblings. I use YouTube Music (comes free with YouTube Premium subscription), AppleMusic and Spotify. Leave some memory space for downloaded playlists so you can listen to it even when offline. </span></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">4. Stretch</span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">If you're feeling sore from all that waiting, try stretching. It helps improve flexibility which in turn lowers your risk of injuries and allows muscles to work effectively. To do it safely, warm your muscles up by walking around or if you can, jog in place. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here's a helpful exercise to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9WC_eLmP30&t=142s" target="_blank">relieve you of stress or tight muscles.</a> This exercise doesn't require a lot of space and was designed for people in the workplace wearing business attire.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">5. Watch Videos</span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Use the downtime to enjoy a movie, documentary or catch up on your favorite series. If you're looking for a site with legally uploaded free movies or documentaries, you can run a search on YouTube with key words like "free movies". Some film companies have shared movies they've produced like ABS-CBN Star Cinema, TBA Studios, Sunworld Pictures, Regal Entertainment, Inc. and more. To make sure you're viewing from the film company's official site, look for a check sign on the username, an indicator of a verified account. For documentaries/informative channels, there's BBC Reel, VOX, Real Stories, Great Art Explained and a whole lot more. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <b>Note :</b> I'm not affiliated with YT, just a happy user! Do consider subscribing to YouTube Premium so you can watch and download ad-free videos. They offer a free trial or you can opt for a family plan to lessen the cost. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">6. Write </span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Have you been wanting to write a book, blog or turn your travel into a journal? Turn the waiting time into an opportunity to get started. While you're writing, be mindful of the time and your surroundings. You don't want to miss important announcements about your flight. To help you write, you may want to take advantage of free online editing tools, like Grammarly and Hemmingway App. Accessing its full features requires subscription but the free version is pretty useful too. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OjHzy7pt8PEdY9yg78hSTRXTnd3REcvIqN1dHE1o5-OBKiNYGrSRdXzDMyz53WxUkfIdMTofRz2IO8v62GzmVYsONGMd4GlWBedQ0JNdGX9aSF6Flaw1bhR7QcuQyrfQjBJ0jnrWgBW5Sp4JyAKKh7chjvjvr6ze5_YZBU8K8yhkuE7KifjKJ0S0/s940/yellow%20black%20simple%20online%20webinar%20template.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OjHzy7pt8PEdY9yg78hSTRXTnd3REcvIqN1dHE1o5-OBKiNYGrSRdXzDMyz53WxUkfIdMTofRz2IO8v62GzmVYsONGMd4GlWBedQ0JNdGX9aSF6Flaw1bhR7QcuQyrfQjBJ0jnrWgBW5Sp4JyAKKh7chjvjvr6ze5_YZBU8K8yhkuE7KifjKJ0S0/w640-h536/yellow%20black%20simple%20online%20webinar%20template.png" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">7. Plan for your Next Adventure</span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">A good itinerary helps save time and money. Though you don't need to plan down to the smallest detail, knowing the places you can visit in one go helps maximize your itinerary. For example, flying to a country that has a long layover to another city or country you've been wanting to visit, </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Why not start planning for your next trip? Check for flights, places of interest or things to do. Skyscanner, Google flights, and Kayak are among the popular sites to search for flights. It also gives you an idea if you can squeeze in a short trip during your layover. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-36736932768872969742022-06-14T07:19:00.001+08:002022-06-14T07:20:04.015+08:00Practical Money Tips so I can Travel More<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;">I used to be an irresponsible spender in my early professional days, buying things without much thought whenever something sparked my interest. Soon, I felt enslaved to my paycheck because of bills I had to pay. But, having been exposed to different experiences and meeting other people through traveling and work, my perspective on handling money has changed. Though I still have a lot to learn, I've become more efficient with my spending, reframing my mindset to choose what will give me long time benefits, instead of instant gratification. In return, I'm able to enjoy my travels more without feeling suffocated with bills or debts. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinOi5W4C1FfEtXrhVB3AV_x5wEAbsTIxQp9yWD6cvXz5VzrEyGncr1neY3nPwFVntsVKVxf3svTjDmDK9f_CamZGehiPlLQLpbsroGTZmB22EGYeVHVA2DfuKBKtxTfDqwn4cMvyre1LdlSlhOXrYQyL3z70s0v5BA4Etz69_7mUFTRWGobsR1IZwK/s4032/IMG_8500.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinOi5W4C1FfEtXrhVB3AV_x5wEAbsTIxQp9yWD6cvXz5VzrEyGncr1neY3nPwFVntsVKVxf3svTjDmDK9f_CamZGehiPlLQLpbsroGTZmB22EGYeVHVA2DfuKBKtxTfDqwn4cMvyre1LdlSlhOXrYQyL3z70s0v5BA4Etz69_7mUFTRWGobsR1IZwK/w640-h480/IMG_8500.jpeg" width="640" /></a></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;"><b>Here are some practical money tips that has been working well for a spender like me. I've excluded those related to savings and investment as there are already plenty of those online. </b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;"><b><i>1. Choose who you spend your time with</i>. </b> In my career in IT, most of my colleagues, no matter how much they earn are always concerned with saving money. They aren't the type to buy the latest gadgets or to overspend on food. Most are cheapskates who act like they don't have money to spare. Being surrounded with people who choose investments over spending on the latest trend is quite influential. Even listening passively, you'd realize you'd pick up a knowledge or two. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;">I don't buy the latest mobile phone model (haven't in 10 years or so). Since I'm a postpaid subscriber, I have a plan that comes with a free phone. Though it's 1-2 models behind the latest iPhone, I never felt like I was missing out. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;"><b><i>2. Create a payment plan for debts.</i> </b>Financial gurus advice against buying with your credit card if you don't have available cash to pay for it in full. However, there are spending scenarios where just don't have enough cash, like a laptop for your child's online class/work or to be even more realistic, a limited edition item that will run out quickly. In scenarios similar to this, I make a plan on paying it in full as quickly as possible then limit spending to basic necessities like utility bills or food, until I've finished paying for it. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;">If you need help with managing your payables, consider reaching out to professionals who can give you information, tools and solutions needed to get out, and stay out, of debt. Click <a href="https://www.debtconsolidation.com/how-to-get-out-of-debt/" target="_blank">here</a> for more information. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;"><b><i>3. When online shopping, just add to cart but don't check-out yet</i>.</b> I can get impulsive about spending so, to curb those impulses, I just add it to my cart. Once I've saved enough, then I buy it or wait for a holiday where there are chances of getting a discount. At times - and this is the ideal scenario, I realized I don't really need it after all. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;"><i><b>4. Set aside a shopping budget and </b>avoid falling into sale traps.</i> Sometimes, the interest rate charged by your credit card won't cover the discount so it's like paying for the item in full plus the emotional baggage of unsettled credit card bills. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;"><b><i>5. Be mindful of ordering too much in restaurants.</i></b><b> </b>After a long hike, I feel like I want to eat everything I find interesting on the menu so I end up ordering more than I can consume. Sometimes, takeout isn't an option which leads to food waste and a bigger bill to settle. These days, I stick to 1-2 main dishes, maybe an appetizer or two, then stop at that. More often than not, eating a slow meal makes me full in 30 minutes. Thus, all those extra servings aren't necessary. I also carry mints or snack so I don't end up too hungry that I impulsively order. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;"><b>6. If you love coffee, learn to prepare it at home</b>. I drink coffee everyday so brewing coffee at home has significantly reduced my coffee expenses. Tools like Aeropress Go plus excellent coffee beans, makes it easy to prepare a satisfying brew. If you're lazy, there's Nespresso too (you can turnover used and cleaned coffee pods so it gets recycled). </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;">P.S. I still drop by cafes from time to time. Discovering great coffee will forever be a thrilling activity for me. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;"><b><i>7. Exercise more. </i></b>I find my spending impulses easier to manage when I exercise. It's also healthier and helpful in times like this. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;">Need more information on how to save money? Check out this helpful article, <a href="https://www.moneymax.ph/personal-finance/articles/tips-on-saving-money" target="_blank">40 Money-Saving Tips for Everyone</a>. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua;">Tips like living below your means is great but it can be very challenging for people who enjoy spending. Instead, take baby steps and follow spending tips that best suits your personality and lifestyle. It's your money anyway. </span></p>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-92037856446956343692022-05-08T16:05:00.003+08:002024-03-29T09:44:44.645+08:00Easy Day Hikes | Mt. Palo / Mt. Tinucan (Antipolo, Rizal) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">It was still quite early when we started making our way up Mt. Palo. The mountain tops are still blanketed by fog and the air was refreshingly chilly. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWaQdQAevBAzsYWiijFGTe_HsQC5HvxefEjiQ40HmaYb5UqKspuxTMGPjyFTxuPo5iiCa5O12ImV0yOL6-jhcSQUTp7-vd-0yBoKMBiLIiC23eRPfR-mQ0nb8kNxvb8Ifc40Z6E8rIOd7o9Xcp-Otupo_5Rxa6UHeXnpFZxSTBJksZ1grx8a3GX79q/s4032/IMG_4125.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWaQdQAevBAzsYWiijFGTe_HsQC5HvxefEjiQ40HmaYb5UqKspuxTMGPjyFTxuPo5iiCa5O12ImV0yOL6-jhcSQUTp7-vd-0yBoKMBiLIiC23eRPfR-mQ0nb8kNxvb8Ifc40Z6E8rIOd7o9Xcp-Otupo_5Rxa6UHeXnpFZxSTBJksZ1grx8a3GX79q/w640-h480/IMG_4125.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;">With me are very good friends, </span><a href="https://www.celineism.com/" style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Celine</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;">, </span><a href="https://www.traveling-up.com/" style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Kara</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;">, </span><a href="https://www.ourworldinwords.com/" style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Gretchen</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;"> and her daughter Lia. (We missed you, </span><a href="https://ironwulf.net/" style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Ferdz</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;">!) .</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">As most of us had just resumed physical activities after two years, we wanted an easy outdoor adventure. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Mt. Palo in Antipolo is a beginner-friendly hike with mild ascents, long flat sections and dramatic views of nearby mountains and rice fields. From the jump-off, it takes 2 hours on a slow pace to get to its peak, ideal for who just want to hike on a relaxed pace. </span></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpccTRWKXIBoBN7VrKG6uOchZg12iukaMbZmfW4ZOpxgTShV1IjjYSjwuKikjBzlYLx351vnJ0vIviiOfjw2zmmUntHYr37HzDe-NmM2nJaRY-ZpclpfcNrfwb70rbpXdFE4ijEV_hpz0G7SbFXGDtbjnRMHXXZeN8XKJFvu5hfhTTaRBwKo4dMshn/s2626/IMG_4462.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2101" data-original-width="2626" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpccTRWKXIBoBN7VrKG6uOchZg12iukaMbZmfW4ZOpxgTShV1IjjYSjwuKikjBzlYLx351vnJ0vIviiOfjw2zmmUntHYr37HzDe-NmM2nJaRY-ZpclpfcNrfwb70rbpXdFE4ijEV_hpz0G7SbFXGDtbjnRMHXXZeN8XKJFvu5hfhTTaRBwKo4dMshn/w640-h512/IMG_4462.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>reunited with Celine, Kara, Gretchen and her daughter Lia</b></span></i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br />We reached this section of the trail in 2 hours. </b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The trail starts nice and easy. From the side of Canumay Elementary school where we met up with our guide, it's a gradual ascend on a dirt road but it's enough to make the unfit like me feel out of breath. Thankfully, there's no need to rush here. You can take your time and still be back at day time. That is, if you don't fall asleep somewhere along the trail. With plenty of flatlands and picturesque spots of rice terraces, mountains and a flower garden, short naps are very inviting. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioodTxS9tp63x85XryqMB3GJn13GcZ9ewbR7-hG3K9h2U9RAcRaXUK8_eXAJ8sIXb6z_qNMMThquhuFaLJgStg9mn0Aag42QM6wNQxagx_TbQH2L2lS0ZFGTX9Rk3p-hdivF5lFKRI6_3M7MP6zGFffe8tixXKOKV4EGttV5VmUCqvunctei-j5WAj/s4032/IMG_4160.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioodTxS9tp63x85XryqMB3GJn13GcZ9ewbR7-hG3K9h2U9RAcRaXUK8_eXAJ8sIXb6z_qNMMThquhuFaLJgStg9mn0Aag42QM6wNQxagx_TbQH2L2lS0ZFGTX9Rk3p-hdivF5lFKRI6_3M7MP6zGFffe8tixXKOKV4EGttV5VmUCqvunctei-j5WAj/w640-h480/IMG_4160.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div><div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Our guide's mother lives 30 minutes away from the summit so we decided to stopover to say hi. Lola welcomed us like old relatives with her excited greeting, followed by an invitation for coffee. </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We initially refused as we didn't want to bother her but she wouldn't take no for an answer. Being a coffee lover, I happily accepted despite the hot weather. </span> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">She then brought us to her colorful flower garden. With mountains as its backdrop, it looks like a scenery in a fantasy flick. </span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbj-UPhWW0EiNKXd7Zu-fbayD5MV-2kdtaq6ji5TIafsRwYe_ONsbK38ZbKSKrtyAJPyQSWKWBJeBMC8Mr8UGA0zMoiM1hAQJ-6Rna4fVP6CwERWbSlaQrQi9RVGEzxo47oOn12WPgCIj9HRXER3Y9y6r9oJMaNJvyUBSQRat280WX3CvT8Ru07Ss-/s4032/IMG_4426.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbj-UPhWW0EiNKXd7Zu-fbayD5MV-2kdtaq6ji5TIafsRwYe_ONsbK38ZbKSKrtyAJPyQSWKWBJeBMC8Mr8UGA0zMoiM1hAQJ-6Rna4fVP6CwERWbSlaQrQi9RVGEzxo47oOn12WPgCIj9HRXER3Y9y6r9oJMaNJvyUBSQRat280WX3CvT8Ru07Ss-/w640-h360/IMG_4426.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Bright flowers of cosmos everywhere! Photo from Kara</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Over the course of chatting and sipping coffee, dark clouds began appearing in the sky and following quickly, rain. Its drops, big enough to soak anyone under it in seconds. </span></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoapCj6iA2s7EO35xl8nqZqsk5AYMPKnSyMdacDgi0Hswf171hTae-11NHtvDbTWKtSu69cysxD6khUyYO8iPWiCIhCSVqR6eRXXXQ1Cwd88jN1A09AQ-f80rADzQ5RnWJVB3IeIxjaJJeNuboEcumT59pk3-qAA2iGh_8HB6CV9iUcxAAkd__Om9/s4032/IMG_4264.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoapCj6iA2s7EO35xl8nqZqsk5AYMPKnSyMdacDgi0Hswf171hTae-11NHtvDbTWKtSu69cysxD6khUyYO8iPWiCIhCSVqR6eRXXXQ1Cwd88jN1A09AQ-f80rADzQ5RnWJVB3IeIxjaJJeNuboEcumT59pk3-qAA2iGh_8HB6CV9iUcxAAkd__Om9/w640-h480/IMG_4264.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>a classic Filipino lunch served by our host</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>B<span style="font-family: trebuchet;">efore we realized what was happening, lola had finished preparing lunch. A huge steel pot was filled to the brim with fragrant red rice mixed with white. My rice lover heart! Following a traditional Filipino meal, rice was accompanied with salted fried fish and some greens. She apologized for the simple food but we were more than happy to partake. With the wet weather, hot coffee and wonderful friends, it was one of the most unforgettable meals I've ever had. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> The rain finally stopped and soon enough, sun and its punishing heat were back. At this point, we had lost interest to go to the summit.We felt very contented to just stay at lola's place to savor the view and the company. Most of us haven't seen each other in months! </span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDl64vo0MmY_xp_9SKpAA-Hx1MCYxWOeu5dNxNMcu2WpmvX2wko2BaSASCbvpWBNhpzLdIbGHfxeXcgWtgXCgj8WwD32G6JTr7EVjyQVRbJkKm5MMq9s0D7dDv79kfBR_Hce06E2ceR-C2dYazcJ5z_hn5K0gcvmH245AAfa7dD7tgbS1j5ErCOCo/s4032/IMG_4235.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDl64vo0MmY_xp_9SKpAA-Hx1MCYxWOeu5dNxNMcu2WpmvX2wko2BaSASCbvpWBNhpzLdIbGHfxeXcgWtgXCgj8WwD32G6JTr7EVjyQVRbJkKm5MMq9s0D7dDv79kfBR_Hce06E2ceR-C2dYazcJ5z_hn5K0gcvmH245AAfa7dD7tgbS1j5ErCOCo/w640-h480/IMG_4235.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>bright flowers of cosmos at lola's garden</i></span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">It was lola who insisted we hike to its peak. She assured us, the trail was mildly steep. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Had she met the old me - younger and fitter, I would have agreed that it was indeed easy. But 2021 me had become a couch potato. Sporting an add-on of 10 kilos, soon, I was grasping for air. I almost vomited. It was so hot too!]</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">I slumped on the ground after reaching the summit of Mts. Palo and Tinucan. At 597 MASL, it's a small mountain but after being inactive for almost two years, the feat felt momentous, similar to when I had reached the Philippines' highest peak, Mt Apo in 2019. </span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZf3iu7KDeHqCI4RfKBngOin-UTRJm0mldIKl6uq77Quy2IUxlchcALXqG5jPW6zCXp-keDQy68GDo-w68ZFagKiBpC6LvKKON26_qRjZfWMOaR84qVdHgNOpZO8egHfblDecQOdXAVJCq2fPABrhPBoOIWaqM_cKf659CLllQ5hQGh07bIwVlopqF/s1916/Screenshot_20211222-190026_Gallery.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1916" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZf3iu7KDeHqCI4RfKBngOin-UTRJm0mldIKl6uq77Quy2IUxlchcALXqG5jPW6zCXp-keDQy68GDo-w68ZFagKiBpC6LvKKON26_qRjZfWMOaR84qVdHgNOpZO8egHfblDecQOdXAVJCq2fPABrhPBoOIWaqM_cKf659CLllQ5hQGh07bIwVlopqF/w640-h360/Screenshot_20211222-190026_Gallery.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>At the summit. Lia stayed behind to play with our guide's daughter. Photo from Kara.</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We stayed for a few minutes to chat and shared some more laughs like the good, old days I missed. Finally, it was time to head back to the city. By 5:00 PM, we were back in Marikina. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Itinerary and Expenses </b><br /><br />Mt. Palo Day Hike<br />Location : Purok Canumay Sitio San Ysidro, Brgy. San Jose Antipolo<br />Jump-off : Canumay Elementary School (Link to Google map <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/WNJnNhaxs5Tp3Tti7" target="_blank">here</a>)<br /><br />4:00 AM Meet at Jollibee Farmer’s Market<br />4:15 AM Depart from Jollibee Farmer’s Market via Private van<br />5:45 AM Arrive at jump-off, register, meet guide<br />6:00 AM Start Hike<br />8:00 AM Summit<br />10:00 AM back at jump-off<br /><br /><b>Trail Description : </b>Easy hike, open trail so best to start early. Our guide had recommends starting at 5:00 AM.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Transportation : </b>We rode a Toyota Innova to the jump-off . The road was paved 99% of the way, with just a very short stretch of dirt road (less than 50 meters) going to the parking lot/registration area. <br /><br /><b>Guide :</b> Sir Richard - As the area has limited network coverage, he recommends getting in touch thru their FB page -<a href=" https://www.facebook.com/Mt-Palo-101181419053442" target="_blank">Mt. Palo</a><br /><br /><b>Expenses</b><br />Registration Fee - 60 Pesos/each<br />Guide Fee - 600 Pesos/5 pax; 6 or more persons need additional guide<br />Private Van - 600/each for a group of 5.<br /></span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><div style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>For other easy hikes near Metro Manila, check out my posts on: </b></span></div><div style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2024/03/pico-de-loro-day-hike-november-2023.html" target="_blank">Pico de Loro</a> (Ternate, Cavite)</span></div><div style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2023/08/a-rainy-day-hike-at-mt-lantik.html" target="_blank">Mt. Lantik</a> (Nasugbu, Batangas)</span></div><div><a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2024/03/a-nice-and-easy-hike-up-mt-matinik-san.html" target="_blank">Mt. Matinik</a> (San Miguel, Bulacan)</div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><br />Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-45575415409329572352021-09-04T22:39:00.001+08:002021-09-07T08:52:16.703+08:00Canada | A Winter Walk in Sulphur Mountain, Banff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Is is too early to talk about Winter? 😁</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Living in the tropics, this season has always been a wonder for me. Because I’m not always exposed to snow, I don’t think about the mess it makes, how annoyingly cold it gets or the hard tasks associated with it. I always think of it from a magical perspective, like how children associate Christmas with Santa Claus and gifts. </div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIowxb9d8cWq0wO0ru4XeHl4JVeWa5F45bGenQBCnDIQNQTh80TG7ltIK0sqQJ_cMPNm1T0AKyk6Ug6w8sRmgErQG6dBgAg5ib_TmHZM0NvO80Q-Hs0Wn9kzUFtLtKuKGFqY_2jyRzQHE/s2048/IMG_1904.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIowxb9d8cWq0wO0ru4XeHl4JVeWa5F45bGenQBCnDIQNQTh80TG7ltIK0sqQJ_cMPNm1T0AKyk6Ug6w8sRmgErQG6dBgAg5ib_TmHZM0NvO80Q-Hs0Wn9kzUFtLtKuKGFqY_2jyRzQHE/w640-h480/IMG_1904.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>A visit to Banff, Canada in 2017</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">In 2017, I walk up a snowy peak for the first time and what an awesome first time it was, visiting one of Canada's best national parks, Banff! Though I’ve done short winter hikes around the parks in Toronto and Montreal a few weeks prior, standing on top of a mountain, looking at surrounding mountains , immaculately covered in snow felt even more surreal. From my vantage, giant white frosted cakes appeared before me, but instead of feeling hungry at the sight, I was filled with awe. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="font-size: small; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #45818e;"><b><br /></b></span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #45818e; font-size: x-small;"><b>Related Post : <a href="https://www.jovialwanderer.com/2018/04/canada-rattray-marsh-trail.html" target="_blank">Hiking Rattray Marsh Trail in Ontario</a></b></span></i></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV41ydBoewWUOZIhSYxJIQNaXO0HgiSAQI1vSem9oTt_ySfpqq_8VqDp5evpFAN07SEGdKZSRlQiR41OfFrhSXKv8XoU1qq4joqc-YjTwgEYJjFf_nyRH5vECMx2XsiTkCvZ49EMmgIEc/s2048/IMG_1970.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV41ydBoewWUOZIhSYxJIQNaXO0HgiSAQI1vSem9oTt_ySfpqq_8VqDp5evpFAN07SEGdKZSRlQiR41OfFrhSXKv8XoU1qq4joqc-YjTwgEYJjFf_nyRH5vECMx2XsiTkCvZ49EMmgIEc/w640-h480/IMG_1970.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>with Jan on Sulphur mountain</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div><div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />What made it even more memorable was I got to do it with one of my best friends and her family who I haven't seen in about 10 years (maybe more!).</div><div><span style="color: #45818e; font-size: small; font-style: italic; font-weight: 700; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #45818e; font-size: small; font-style: italic; font-weight: 700; text-align: justify;">Today's Tip : Have you purchased a timeshare and no longer using it? Consult with a </span><a href="https://canceltimesharereviews.com/timeshare-specialists-review/" style="font-size: small; font-style: italic; font-weight: 700; text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Timeshare specialist that can help</a><span style="color: #45818e; font-size: small;"><b><i> you process your exit, hassle-free.</i></b></span></div></div><div><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: small;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj63wHizkNoOc_pG-tqO5mAJJZOCx2oCBxe2zSlRaBciPxB9HtvQBbikB9smQ76p_ycmE2y-15a5IRadDhZw5eiyeLRMwIjqNpzyr_AvNHHkIfZemTJJPwf0uMMJQNRpDBv4n0krwppJ2Y/s2048/IMG_1867.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj63wHizkNoOc_pG-tqO5mAJJZOCx2oCBxe2zSlRaBciPxB9HtvQBbikB9smQ76p_ycmE2y-15a5IRadDhZw5eiyeLRMwIjqNpzyr_AvNHHkIfZemTJJPwf0uMMJQNRpDBv4n0krwppJ2Y/w640-h480/IMG_1867.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>This is where we walked to get to Cosmic Ray station.</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div>There are two options of getting to the top of Sulphur mountain, one or both can make you sweaty, if you're afraid of heights. Traveling with two active little ones, we opted to ride a cable car. While it's a convenient option, having acrophobia doesn't make it easier, I had to keep my focus on the views so as not to get daunted by the heights! My mom's friend had it worse and kept her eyes closed the entire way. </div><div><br /></div><div>From the cable car station, we walked another 500-meter on a boardwalk to Cosmic Ray Station, a historical landmark on Sanson Peak.While riding the cable car, we saw people taking the hiking trail. It looked really fun (needless to say, challenging) to walk closer to the trees. I'd have to reserve that for a return trip. </div><div><br /></div><div>Along the way, I read an information signage about the white bark pines in Sulphur mountain, a species of pine trees that grow at a high elevation. Due to disease, and climate change, its numbers are rapidly declining. In 2012, it was listed as an endangered species. While Banff is a family-friendly, touristy destination, I appreciate that there were signages like these, making visitors aware of these type of issues. </div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rH_bpUETR42TcgClpTU-AUKQTcHxqdxZChqAdFqQYlwwhzi_XW39WJKFCxl8K883R8xH76Gng4Bx3sF57tOskO5-BnvMi-yZrNXAhlAF6ZGJ5MK31i8yN2o-eZuOavlaPItD_1GRdcA/s2048/IMG_1941.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rH_bpUETR42TcgClpTU-AUKQTcHxqdxZChqAdFqQYlwwhzi_XW39WJKFCxl8K883R8xH76Gng4Bx3sF57tOskO5-BnvMi-yZrNXAhlAF6ZGJ5MK31i8yN2o-eZuOavlaPItD_1GRdcA/w640-h480/IMG_1941.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Say hello to the Canadian Rockies!</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div>There was a building near the cable car station which had the restrooms, restaurant and souvenir shop. My friend's kids joined an activity and made Christmas cookies while we adults went around to take more photos like this beautiful bear. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPHXG-I_TnhRWPYx_PO_pg5wtxM15S4J79XNq1-txOu0wxVAs0zPcmo8-x6XAvAuXLZFnpDjwxgT4vL899mWVV4qCvqRgGyVAbQyCoW50su87SotIa6-K8Lsi0UdJ5zS1xnTjQFJMKq8/s2048/IMG_1865.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPHXG-I_TnhRWPYx_PO_pg5wtxM15S4J79XNq1-txOu0wxVAs0zPcmo8-x6XAvAuXLZFnpDjwxgT4vL899mWVV4qCvqRgGyVAbQyCoW50su87SotIa6-K8Lsi0UdJ5zS1xnTjQFJMKq8/w640-h480/IMG_1865.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgu22xNHDrgSsqyXTDVRMuvFXtRryvBTFLhVBAl1_BAwzYsga8g-yn5NI5A2WdURY1soXZywGS0vhyMNYnijgWWLPeis-nf8lHiCVIk-4fX_5oMWzCWi9T6yTEVtYNhqZXVR7f1eZs0sk/s2048/IMG_1862.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgu22xNHDrgSsqyXTDVRMuvFXtRryvBTFLhVBAl1_BAwzYsga8g-yn5NI5A2WdURY1soXZywGS0vhyMNYnijgWWLPeis-nf8lHiCVIk-4fX_5oMWzCWi9T6yTEVtYNhqZXVR7f1eZs0sk/w640-h480/IMG_1862.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>the kids making Christmas themed cookies. :) </b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>Other than sightseeing and hiking, there are tons of other activities and places to visit in Banff National Park. Do visit <a href="https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/banff/activ" target="_blank">Parks Canada website</a> for a more comprehensive list of things to do and updated travel information. </div><div><br /></div><div>One of the things that kept me sane in this long quarantine was revisiting old travel photos. This day trip from Calgary to Banff was one of my favorites. As I wait for travel to be more safer, I shall look back to past trip with fondness, enjoy the mundane and move forward with hope. </div>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-50742468244907427972021-06-09T13:06:00.003+08:002021-06-22T21:34:04.904+08:00Looking Back and Moving Forward<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">It's been more than a year since the pandemic hit and like many who have been in a lengthy quarantine, I've learned to adapt, accepting that all my travel plans will be delayed, indefinitely. </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">To </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">avoid falling into that dark pit with no ladder, I took some time off from my corporate job (after a lot of thinking and saving up) and </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">turned to other things I've put off doing because I was always out and about. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53oFirVmgsE0bK4KxSHR5WqDVrjdP82RCHcS1DQCaDkMeIuYZIP1Zd1svvhAfqt_m9kIsp-OPm2Iw0Oe9rhksrBiZngF1V8C-O8qEtlnyrtbeNczv5oJBtXm1-2pp8koHo1uEK_Ec2HY/s2048/IMG_3196.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53oFirVmgsE0bK4KxSHR5WqDVrjdP82RCHcS1DQCaDkMeIuYZIP1Zd1svvhAfqt_m9kIsp-OPm2Iw0Oe9rhksrBiZngF1V8C-O8qEtlnyrtbeNczv5oJBtXm1-2pp8koHo1uEK_Ec2HY/w640-h480/IMG_3196.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div></div><h1 style="text-align: justify;"><b>Looking Back </b></h1><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span>I started blogging in 2009 to have on online keepsake of my travels but it wasn't until a few years after that companies and government agencies started collaborating with bloggers. Later on, with the emergence of other online media platforms, new jobs emerged and the term "influencer"is considered a viable profession. I don't call myself as such but watching friends in the industry, I've seen the huge effort they put in crafting a single post. It's admirable! <a href="https://intellifluence.com/blog/amy-west-influencer-spotlight" target="_blank">These hardworking influencers</a> are so much more than the glam or the output you see online. With a lot of people posting content online, bloggers and influencers use</span> <a href="https://www.latimes.com/business/technology/story/2021-06-01/hashtags-influencers-use-them" target="_blank">techniques to become more visible</a>. There's so much thought behind each video or social media post. To me, its relatable and inspiring, whichever field you're in. We all want to do well. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span>Staying in one place felt like I've received a gift of time. Though it felt like a life sentence at the start, having plenty of time to pause, gave me the opportunity to revisit old photos and enjoy plenty of quiet times reminiscing, while listening to music. In doing so,</span><span> I felt more grateful</span><span> of the opportunities I've received as a blogger. Sure, the gifts, events and memorable media trips were nice but the things that I hold like beautiful fragrant flowers were all the</span> interesting people and good friends I've met along the way. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">First Media Trip</span></i></b></h3><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">In 2014, I joined a media tour where I met people from traditional print media and other fellow bloggers to feature a province. Since then, I started receiving invites for other events. Writing isn't easy for me, plus I had another full time job so I only </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">accepted assignments that connected to me - those that are useful, fun or will help fellow travelers or hikers. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5sPos4uBwYb9uTBTPlh0myU5taTthLralz0pto3AiFisr_SWbE4xhG3qqN4vn5HH6VIFU_Wngbpamhpkx1ZcO1uJhRsjRyZphCdB5b8bNrCLg9TnBJgHLNfbLOW9CudCUKvtzjjq_520/s2048/P5120677.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1504" data-original-width="2048" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5sPos4uBwYb9uTBTPlh0myU5taTthLralz0pto3AiFisr_SWbE4xhG3qqN4vn5HH6VIFU_Wngbpamhpkx1ZcO1uJhRsjRyZphCdB5b8bNrCLg9TnBJgHLNfbLOW9CudCUKvtzjjq_520/w640-h470/P5120677.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>At the pier on our way to Puerto Galera, Mindoro</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-family: trebuchet;"><i>Tawi-Tawi</i></b></h3><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">This week long trip to cover the Kamahardikaan Festival in the southernmost tip of the Philippines was very memorable as I've been wanting to visit this province. We were a huge group, a mix of bloggers and traditional media from Manila and Mindanao area, more than 20 in all but we formed a bond while visiting beautiful places like Panampangan island and Bud Bongao where below photo was taken. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqNY_QMGj-fjuUIHO3xtapw5Rt15b9j_xEOmGVPf3w0WvF5FkRSQ5lqX25DVzV1_yNG7JOhKUQ2KTbJLmlipOGhyci890HaULCdc2iRyTwsAUZ5W9AJrLXlsrJQ_1sYsUuNDOXkxjY5M/s2048/from+AlDam.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqNY_QMGj-fjuUIHO3xtapw5Rt15b9j_xEOmGVPf3w0WvF5FkRSQ5lqX25DVzV1_yNG7JOhKUQ2KTbJLmlipOGhyci890HaULCdc2iRyTwsAUZ5W9AJrLXlsrJQ_1sYsUuNDOXkxjY5M/w640-h426/from+AlDam.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Our group at the peak of Bud Bongao, Tawi-Tawi's highest peak. Photo from Aldam. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Indonesia </i></b></h3><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">It's not very often that I get invited to overseas media trips so this was a rare opportunity. It's also my first time to visit Indonesia which is known for its good food, beaches, temples and volcanoes.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiczDIIhqNgoLeGISXYP_VYAAIqyfpr2yvuJg3oRy6F9FTTMJLl1V6XaWqXGxul7-ApZyoJrIfEjLarT-8M0nhMxD7hl4qSbvUDIHvOz9QbpWigTLroibGCh2KowDUJX_yJLdg403hl_4o/s2048/IMG_8303.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiczDIIhqNgoLeGISXYP_VYAAIqyfpr2yvuJg3oRy6F9FTTMJLl1V6XaWqXGxul7-ApZyoJrIfEjLarT-8M0nhMxD7hl4qSbvUDIHvOz9QbpWigTLroibGCh2KowDUJX_yJLdg403hl_4o/w640-h480/IMG_8303.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Waiting for sunrise at Borobudur Temple in Yogyakarta, Indonesia</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h1 style="text-align: justify;"><b>Living in the Now </b></h1><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">These days, I'm more thankful and relaxed. Though I'm optimistic by nature, these are very tough times that calls for mindful measures to stay sane. In days when I find it hard to be thankful, I focus on the fact that I still exist and breathing through my lungs. I'm </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">no longer hard on myself because who knows how much time we have left? </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">I learned to cut my hair in layers, made cold brew coffee and tea, Turkish coffee too, my new fave! The food I prepare has become more edible. There's so much resources online that teaches you these things. </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Another life-changing is discovering the music of the world’s biggest boy band. ;) They're my happy pill. </span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvz_FQxJvH86loU2CvjMyqOuQbmhhooheYJGJWkKt7kA3yW6FElQup1x2_jM3cV04gfi5Hg3BGBSeCjsdm4UT9vG0wDyYpj8MzaczN_yhwxvjB4pzwf_th5ajFNZE0rQMpQT8ybmbU_SA/s2048/Turkish+Coffee.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvz_FQxJvH86loU2CvjMyqOuQbmhhooheYJGJWkKt7kA3yW6FElQup1x2_jM3cV04gfi5Hg3BGBSeCjsdm4UT9vG0wDyYpj8MzaczN_yhwxvjB4pzwf_th5ajFNZE0rQMpQT8ybmbU_SA/w640-h480/Turkish+Coffee.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Practicing how to make Turkish coffee</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">While I've shared my ways on how I faced the pandemic, these are NOT the only ways to adapt. Please do what’s best to care for yourself. The way I thrive is by creating, learning and having plenty of quiet time. Some people enjoy </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">sleeping long hours or playing vide games. If that’s your thing - that’s perfectly okay too. The beauty of humanity is that we’re all different and if there's respect and acceptance, it all works out well. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">By God's grace, I've come to embrace this season of life we're in. I'm thankful and looking towards the future with hope and lots of patience. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b><i> "Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope. (Romans 5:3-4)</i></b></span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div></span></div>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-5777406904058209062021-06-04T14:15:00.004+08:002021-06-04T14:21:06.478+08:00Outdoor Attractions to See in Vancouver<div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwiugh70ihBI536QB06BWUlYQO2sdmzstP4pxFwfvZ9GM8UosQnzV_alXRRw_f9cCypjEoDLvJws-LE6UTPp3os9bcZsPOZJ1jQ1-tqqwsRvDAF5K88QSB_A4PPc53vKzzl-dWBYq3wCo/s940/Vancouver+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwiugh70ihBI536QB06BWUlYQO2sdmzstP4pxFwfvZ9GM8UosQnzV_alXRRw_f9cCypjEoDLvJws-LE6UTPp3os9bcZsPOZJ1jQ1-tqqwsRvDAF5K88QSB_A4PPc53vKzzl-dWBYq3wCo/w640-h536/Vancouver+%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you love being around nature like me, one thing to always look for when traveling to a new place is the outdoor activities it has to offer. Breathing in fresh air and immersing in sunshine does wonders to both physical and mental health. </span></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you're based in a country with travel restrictions, consider these as recommendations for your future travels. </span></div></span></div></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One city in Canada that has some great outdoor attractions is Vancouver. If you’re in the market for a new home, check out some </span><a href="https://www.redfin.ca/bc/vancouver" style="font-family: trebuchet; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">homes for sale in Vancouver</span></a><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></div><span><div style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></div></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now let’s get into some of those outdoor activities that travelers in varying fitness levels can enjoy!. </span></div><span><div style="font-family: trebuchet; font-weight: 700; text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></div></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Stanley Park</b></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Surrounded by water, Stanley Park has some of the most breathtaking views in all of Canada. Offering 400 hectares of rainforest, hiking trails, beaches, natural and cultural landmarks, it makes for great memories and photos. </span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40VVfjEv54FHNxsZJ3Pv9PVTPlDZ7lndOXFd2sv-jTHWNCxuhT9NMrGDTdfCnxHsscVjc9v_bdnX3v2DsyEwnszAD8tDE1ZY88Qv0780O2MnyNzFQkZwtLJJcaMQ_EVcfGemRj5X4wbQ/s3648/Stanley_Park_Miniature_Train_October_23%252C_2011.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40VVfjEv54FHNxsZJ3Pv9PVTPlDZ7lndOXFd2sv-jTHWNCxuhT9NMrGDTdfCnxHsscVjc9v_bdnX3v2DsyEwnszAD8tDE1ZY88Qv0780O2MnyNzFQkZwtLJJcaMQ_EVcfGemRj5X4wbQ/w640-h480/Stanley_Park_Miniature_Train_October_23%252C_2011.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Miniature Railway. Photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/marcinchady/6301525258/" target="_blank">Marcin Chady </a>, under license <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC by 2.0</a></span></i></td><td class="tr-caption"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;">Within the park are great places for dining and the Vancouver Aquarium. Walk the park, visit these places, or do both. There is also a hidden gem within the park, the Seawall. We’ll get into that in a bit. </span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kitsilano Beach</b></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There are many great beaches throughout Vancouver, but none quite like Kitsilano Beach. The locals fondly call this beach Kits Beach. Keep that in mind in case you need to ask for directions. There is plenty of space here for sunbathers and many volleyball courts for some of the more active beachgoers. Kits Beach is also home to Vancouver’s only saltwater swimming pool.</span></div><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></div></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are three beaches in Stanley Park as well, but you don’t want to spend your time all in one place. </span></div><b style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></b></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;">Vancouver Seawall</b></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=591859" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eoDCYXEeyleMH_mUMPRJ4IB58pias6jNwuPcVnXj_hlSZsn2VVAaMYTksJO5RCj64E0f_Qvvkl00Qg9DFMEqtytCC0Bo8AgLcPAUVSnSExkzcTMhO7pD-t7PZXEm8VlCBDcGdPfOKoM/w640-h480/Seawall_Vancouver.jpg" title="Seawall at Stanley Park. Photo : CC BY-SA 2.0" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>West end of Vancouver Seawell. Photo by : <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/awraun/100010260/" target="_blank">Andrew Raun</a>, under </i><i>license <a class="mw-mmv-license" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #0645ad; font-family: sans-serif; text-align: right; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></i><i><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/awraun/100010260/" target="_blank"><br /></a></i></span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Vancouver Seawall is part of Stanley Park, but being a popular landmark, it deserves its own feature. </span></div><span><div style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></div></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Seawall is a stretch of 17 miles. It’s perfect for walking, running or biking, and the views will leave you awestruck.</span></div><span><div style="font-family: trebuchet; font-weight: 700; text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></div></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Grouse Grind</b><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The Grouse Grind is a one of a kind hiking trail in Vancouver. Tens of thousands of hikers take to this trail annually. It’s been coined mother nature’s stairmaster, and that is why it will give you one heck of a workout. The trail climbs 2,800 feet in less than 2 miles. Crazy!</div></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></div></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you make it to the summit, the views will be worth the buckets of sweat it took to get there.</span></div><span><div style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: justify; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></div></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;">Queen Elizabeth Park</b></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Queen Elizabeth Park sits at the peak of Vancouver. It comes in at 499 feet above sea level. It’s in South Vancouver which allows you to see the skyline of Vancouver backed by the mountain ranges nestled in Northern Vancouver.</span></div></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Queen Elizabeth Park is a great park for a nice, relaxing walk and a delicious picnic after so don't forget to bring food!</span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></span></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-caa82286-7fff-edaa-a5ae-920510119d76"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-3257376951886375222021-01-02T09:49:00.001+08:002021-01-02T09:49:10.834+08:00Staycation in the New Normal | Taal Vista, Tagaytay<div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: left;">After 8 months of staying indoors due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it was time for a breather! There are several destinations that have opened up around the Philippines, all with safety protocols in place. If you're coming from Manila, one of the most accessible and refreshing places to visit is Tagaytay. A city in the mountains, it offers a cooler temperature (range of 18-27C). There are no medical tests required but SOME establishments only allow guests between the age of 15-65 (as of Dec 2020). </div><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="color: #2b00fe;"><b><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="color: #2b00fe;"><b><span style="background-color: white;">Travel Tip : </span></b><span style="background-color: white;">For a list of domestic destinations that are open for tourism, entry requirements, government-accredited lab testing sites, check out the Department of Tourism site, <a href="https://philippines.travel/safetrip" target="_blank">Philippines.travel/safetrip</a>. I also recommend checking the respective local government sites on Facebook or through their website. </span></i></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-NVnKW94eMrNM7yfJ95jH8ykaNVbmz8EqOW7Q09I5E6nTSc24oPe2TnrioNEzL2U8PgoRW4UUo9B2uuCyqZDybWnNhe6P3odPuvB2B5SXmhhTVrFZzPGrjRxSkLGUBhvq-UiljKGyyo/s2048/IMG_4097.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-NVnKW94eMrNM7yfJ95jH8ykaNVbmz8EqOW7Q09I5E6nTSc24oPe2TnrioNEzL2U8PgoRW4UUo9B2uuCyqZDybWnNhe6P3odPuvB2B5SXmhhTVrFZzPGrjRxSkLGUBhvq-UiljKGyyo/w640-h480/IMG_4097.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Of all the government-accredited hotels in Tagaytay online, Taal Vista seemed the most promising with its reasonable room rates, excellent customer reviews and safety protocols. Other exciting features of this hotel is its backyard which offers a full view of Taal Volcano and since I have not swam in months, I looked forward to using their outdoor pool!</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>I booked directly through their website, <a href="https://www.taalvistahotel.com/" target="_blank">Taal Vista Hotel</a> and was able to get a room at 30% off. As of December 2020, only guests from age 15-65 are allowed in the hotel. </div><div><br /></div><div>We left Manila past 7:00 AM on a Saturday. By the time we reached EDSA, traffic had built up until South Luzon Expressway. Going up to Tagaytay, traffic was tolerable. The one-way traffic schemes seemed to be working. Since check-in was at 2:00 PM, we stopped by <a href="https://sonyasgarden.com/" target="_blank">Sonya's Garden</a> for a nice brunch and then to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PuzzleMansion/" target="_blank">Puzzle Mansion</a>, two of the places which I've been wanting to visit for the longest time! </div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnGNYdM0pOHsrv0pxpdTfyLjCy0UzzC3R3Fe-56K8eCPZMvfLd03uWhB75Ubj7k6qOEeVfyGrIkYeqxEcD7a9zXEOkbC5QIXnWiGX1Me779UU0v14H8FfORQGO4B4v2QIcFt7dBgbRHQ/s2048/IMG_1611.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnGNYdM0pOHsrv0pxpdTfyLjCy0UzzC3R3Fe-56K8eCPZMvfLd03uWhB75Ubj7k6qOEeVfyGrIkYeqxEcD7a9zXEOkbC5QIXnWiGX1Me779UU0v14H8FfORQGO4B4v2QIcFt7dBgbRHQ/w640-h480/IMG_1611.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>at Sonya's Garden</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">After our side trips, we headed to Taal Vista. Check-in was relatively quick, even with the additional steps we had to take. Our temperatures were checked twice, before entering the hotel premises and the hotel lobby. We also filled up a health declaration form and maintained social distance as we waited to get checked in. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5qodJLy4YANQ8bUix7MIWCtjY3aXN32zdMMNIRLWaUTkgeubj4yWtElToqO8mu3qOCD4fRPSm4jR83m2t4HKoz135qLgyNFm58Yz1PcJkyIGoHRUclKG5CGEd_hkUM44FyPpjDWcWzrc/s2048/IMG_1831.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5qodJLy4YANQ8bUix7MIWCtjY3aXN32zdMMNIRLWaUTkgeubj4yWtElToqO8mu3qOCD4fRPSm4jR83m2t4HKoz135qLgyNFm58Yz1PcJkyIGoHRUclKG5CGEd_hkUM44FyPpjDWcWzrc/w640-h480/IMG_1831.jpeg" title="at the Lobby Lounge, one of the 3 dining options in Taal Vista Hotel" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Lobby Lounge, one of the 3 dining options in Taal Vista Hotel</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>We're staying at a Ridge room in the Mountain Wing, which offers a nice view of Taal Lake. From the lobby, we had to go down an escalator and walked in a long tunnel to get to our room. This reminded me of the ones used by planes, you know, the ones that connect from the airport doors to the plane's entrance. I love walking and enjoyed the tunnel but it's something you need to consider if you're having difficulty moving with your legs. </div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWjJW9OxLkfmrBPZ7hIJBaio7Uk1PDrbW0sVOvgMMBtvxAd66KEMdWLnz0iwlWh0ZPZtHmalIzlUZlEjD34JePOX38qOVlCgAAAZrh5AM4h2Ld2b2WUofOCylZr_P076LPJk-H76vkjI/s2048/IMG_1724.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWjJW9OxLkfmrBPZ7hIJBaio7Uk1PDrbW0sVOvgMMBtvxAd66KEMdWLnz0iwlWh0ZPZtHmalIzlUZlEjD34JePOX38qOVlCgAAAZrh5AM4h2Ld2b2WUofOCylZr_P076LPJk-H76vkjI/w640-h480/IMG_1724.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ridge room</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />The 38 sqm. room has a private balcony, where we indulged on a tranquil scenery of Taal volcano and its lake. Sharing a room with my brother and sister, we were quite comfortable and had plenty of room to move around. The beds were also perfect for us, one single bed and a King size bed. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWEEz7KdxvLk6QEEinQc58ORlvg7VFGu5yuuI0-zpTHstipG2K17j6RGXy3JupnZeVVSdW0U4dj0Jsq-y3qCjAcWCj5VefSqhlX_iD3RHNx2QkYz_Gmr3hYtc3XQxyRBcIRkCTX3hXq_k/s2048/IMG_1740.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWEEz7KdxvLk6QEEinQc58ORlvg7VFGu5yuuI0-zpTHstipG2K17j6RGXy3JupnZeVVSdW0U4dj0Jsq-y3qCjAcWCj5VefSqhlX_iD3RHNx2QkYz_Gmr3hYtc3XQxyRBcIRkCTX3hXq_k/w640-h480/IMG_1740.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">complimentary sanitation kits for guests checking-in</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;">We took all our meals from the in-house restaurants; There are 3 to choose from Taza, TheVeranda & The Lobby Lounge). Of the three, we were able to try The Lobby Lounge and The Veranda. Both offered satisfying meals and the prices aren't bad for a nice hotel (expect to pay around 500+ each). </div><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5r3DD81TTDxHAurcttqduQx2SYqQdn1QI13qjbOdBCT7bB7CnIKiF3jtGvlcb29_2QZFGH51bYq7_t-T7QEvOmRsTOftL6T50ExTQ2bgGd7le5Ma3rONRmXbIB1uexDSl5b5TW3UKfG0/s2048/IMG_1726.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5r3DD81TTDxHAurcttqduQx2SYqQdn1QI13qjbOdBCT7bB7CnIKiF3jtGvlcb29_2QZFGH51bYq7_t-T7QEvOmRsTOftL6T50ExTQ2bgGd7le5Ma3rONRmXbIB1uexDSl5b5TW3UKfG0/w640-h480/IMG_1726.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">view from our balcony :) </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The next morning, I went for a swim. At 7:00 AM, I had the pool to myself. It's not a heated pool so I had to bear the chilly water. The pool is big enough for me to enjoy laps and I swam for nearly an hour. The water was so clear! :) </div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><b>Note :</b> To use the pool, you need to reserve a slot by calling the reception. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUGFZcy1_BeWEO0tcK1QWO0-iRVtgfqDGhySwu0TU6LqUAgDgOQk9i6Iu_T9pW_nv8FwP6-Ely5acL-NDaK2rSFntC-ZCOKtYdDRyQVBTXYEaczrt5guwy9EVrQ8dd6p87-ZJme8KQzE8/s2048/IMG_1795+2.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUGFZcy1_BeWEO0tcK1QWO0-iRVtgfqDGhySwu0TU6LqUAgDgOQk9i6Iu_T9pW_nv8FwP6-Ely5acL-NDaK2rSFntC-ZCOKtYdDRyQVBTXYEaczrt5guwy9EVrQ8dd6p87-ZJme8KQzE8/w640-h480/IMG_1795+2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Taal Vista swimming pool</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">After a nice, hot shower, we headed to The Veranda for breakfast. This in-house restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating. The tables outside offers a nice view of the volcano and the lake but I wanted to seat closer to the food, a nice and simple buffet spread! I missed buffets!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibg9TdULW_eQSY1eD5pF6mXe6OvK-XEFe0nywLhmLXNOgGQ7j6nZXvAz3FszzSqoP95eR1LhFd067R9hPqL_8NwJG_UUnHSwOjCpHC4ssNTCxQ5-mVNa9aeqEMTR23ttpdYA_3kFkas_s/s2048/IMG_1811.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1537" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibg9TdULW_eQSY1eD5pF6mXe6OvK-XEFe0nywLhmLXNOgGQ7j6nZXvAz3FszzSqoP95eR1LhFd067R9hPqL_8NwJG_UUnHSwOjCpHC4ssNTCxQ5-mVNa9aeqEMTR23ttpdYA_3kFkas_s/w480-h640/IMG_1811.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">buffet line. The yellow signs on the floor are distance markers. <br />I'm happy that most guests were respectful and <br />maintained distance from others. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Most of the food were behind glass counters, with the staff putting food on your plate. All the dishes were tasty, mostly Filipino staples of fried rice, eggs, fried fish, corned beef, longganisa, beans and bacon. There's also a pastry corner with danishes and croissants. I noticed there isn't much options for vegans other than fruits and salad. Of all the food I tried from the buffet, the most remarkable for me was the croissant. It's nice and flaky. Though a bit too buttery, it went well with sunny side-up eggs. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The breakfast buffet was over-all, a happy experience. I felt safe dining in with the new safety measures in place, plus we always made sure we wore our masks and face shield when walking around. More importantly, we always sanitized our hands & mindful of others. There are markers on the floor to remind guests to maintain physical distance. You start lining up to get a plate. Eating utensils are sealed and placed inside paper envelopes that can be repurposed for masks. Instead of the usual create your own salad where all ingredients are exposed, basic salad have been placed in jars. Various dressings and yogurt are also in separate containers. Coffee and hot choco were on a separate area, away from the food. Unfortunately, some guests still gathered around the coffee area, instead of waiting for the person ahead to finish filling their cup. Sigh. Establishments can only do so much. We all need to do our part to make it safe for everyone. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU_f57XOnSmqHzwXdTZngc7yzhoIzEhos3-lFmw9FmvoXPzdKB-6sXBia1QppxdDWeBY74Zdl7T1Zp41f7AzYs2gOYWsAMzxQyxa_nr-nmtfIZSZn6IbjPYoRX-MWQn37eaBM_eeiBfgQ/s2048/IMG_1818.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU_f57XOnSmqHzwXdTZngc7yzhoIzEhos3-lFmw9FmvoXPzdKB-6sXBia1QppxdDWeBY74Zdl7T1Zp41f7AzYs2gOYWsAMzxQyxa_nr-nmtfIZSZn6IbjPYoRX-MWQn37eaBM_eeiBfgQ/w640-h480/IMG_1818.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Checking out of the hotel was quick and super easy. We settled our bills before packing our stuff and once we're ready to get out of the hotel, we called the reception and left the access cards in the room. Then, off we go. I love their hassle-free process!</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMVCtePBCYHBznHym2LgCdFVFfj09cQAdwVAw3qSkM_Lm8jal6ce2XhptUUfkGRXyTTRfpD_P7IaEkS3VAYIN_gG026c47JX3XHbT44L-XSnVq5IJistVcSrIRqCRCTyDYHL35_-Ya9Fw/s2048/IMG_1840.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMVCtePBCYHBznHym2LgCdFVFfj09cQAdwVAw3qSkM_Lm8jal6ce2XhptUUfkGRXyTTRfpD_P7IaEkS3VAYIN_gG026c47JX3XHbT44L-XSnVq5IJistVcSrIRqCRCTyDYHL35_-Ya9Fw/w640-h480/IMG_1840.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>beautiful Christmas tree near the reception</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Tagaytay's cooler temperature, nice restaurants and nature views makes it one of the best places to visit from Manila. The view of Taal Lake and Binintiang Malaki, the most popular of all the 47 craters of Taal volcano is always breathtaking! If I need to spend a night or two in Tagaytay, staying at Taal Vista would be at the top of the list. We had such a nice experience here. :) </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVdfEjUyoV-G-UpHI0AJbHMLxIxl5ErzIP44aKeKb7pCkrk9OhMo0ynOG0LgeUFjYZPTQ1m-o61zvGKasyeDtp3ScPpHgJ6wgg-U_I3BO2-ZgGxvfM3h1NMIvraA-BWc85kydhwU7310/s2048/IMG_1856.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVdfEjUyoV-G-UpHI0AJbHMLxIxl5ErzIP44aKeKb7pCkrk9OhMo0ynOG0LgeUFjYZPTQ1m-o61zvGKasyeDtp3ScPpHgJ6wgg-U_I3BO2-ZgGxvfM3h1NMIvraA-BWc85kydhwU7310/w640-h480/IMG_1856.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Taking one last photo before heading home. Happy holidays, everyone!</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Places to Visit in Tagaytay </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Sonya's Garden</b> - a popular bed and breakfast serving good breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet (750 PHP/head). The staff will bring the food to your table and you can always request for additional serving size which they bring over to you quickly. The dining area is huge and airy so even if there were many people dining in, it did not feel crowded. Service was friendly and fast. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Facebook Page :</b> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sonyasgardentagaytay" target="_blank">Sonya's Garden</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Website :</b> <a href="http://www.sonyasgarden.com" target="_blank">www.sonyasgarden.com</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Puzzle Mansion - </b>this museum showcases two floors of the impressive jigsaw puzzle collection of Georgina Gil-Lacuna. With 1,028 sets, she was the former <a href="https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/largest-collection-of-jigsaw-puzzles" target="_blank">Guinness World record holder of the largest collection of jigsaw puzzles</a>. The current record is now back to Luiza Figueiredo of Brazil who presented 1,047 sets on July 2017. Luiza achieved her first world record in 2010 with 238 puzzles, then surpassed her own record on 2012 with 502 sets.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Facebook Page : </b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/PuzzleMansion" target="_blank">Puzzle Mansion Tagaytay</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Museo Orlina - </b>this art gallery with a features the works of renowned Filipino glass sculptor, Ramon Orlina. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Facebook Page : </b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/museoorlina" target="_blank">Museo Orlina</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Website : </b><a href="http://www.museo-orlina.org">www.museo-orlina.org</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For more information on other places, things to do in Tagayaty, check out these Tagaytay Itineraries:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.pinoyadventurista.com/2018/09/top-best-things-to-do-in-tagaytay-city-cavite.html" target="_blank">Pinoy Adventurista | 2020 Tagaytay Travel Guide</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2019/04/tagaytay-travel-guide-itinerary/" target="_blank">Poor Traveler | Tagaytay on a Budget</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-32344163668185133912020-11-17T18:30:00.001+08:002020-11-17T19:15:04.090+08:00Celebrating Chinese New Year in the World's Oldest Chinatown<div style="text-align: justify;">Established in 1594, Binondo is the world's oldest Chinatown, drawing visitors not just for its historical significance but also its food scene. (Read : <a href="https://www.esquiremag.ph/long-reads/features/binondo-history-oldest-chinatown-a2212-20190204-lfrm" target="_blank">Esquire | How Binondo became the World's Oldest Chinatown</a>). In 2020, Chinese New Year fell on the 25th of January. Incidentally, I was in the area!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">
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Even for someone like me who's averse to crowds, the lively vibe of Binondo at this time felt so welcoming, I couldn't help but feel festive. There were a lot of people in the streets wearing something red, huge billboards are advertising new year activities, streets are decorated with red lanterns, even some roads are closed to give way to events. The energy is electric, it makes me feel as though I'm part of the celebration, even if I'm not of Chinese descent.</div>
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We met up with <a href="https://eazytraveler.net/" target="_blank">Ed's</a> friends for a quick snack at Tasty Dumplings. Though the interiors are far from chic, service is fast and we got to eat some satisfying steamed dumplings which I paired with wintermelon juice. If you want to dine for a heavy meal, try the restaurant's specialties, porkchop rice and hongma (braised pork chop in soy sauce). <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">dimsum snack at Tasty Dumplings with Anthony, Ed and Bridget</td></tr>
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Since we had something planned for Sunday, we decided to attend the anticipated mass at Binondo church. Right across the street is Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz, where a big crowd gathered near the stage, waiting for a dance contest to start. (Note : If you're looking for place to live close to Binondo, consider <a href="https://www.lamudi.com.ph/projects/celadon-park/" target="_blank">Celadon Park</a>, a project by Alveo Land, just3.5 KM away from Binondo church via Abad Santos Ave.)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz or simply called as Binondo church</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: start;">The church location is strategic and can be your starting point when food tripping in Binondo. </span><i style="text-align: start;">(Check out, <a href="https://outoftownblog.com/binondo-food-crawl-best-places-to-eat-in-manilas-chinatown-2018-edition/" target="_blank">Binondo Food Trip Guide (2020)</a> by Out of Town Blog.)</i><br />
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After the mass, we tried to look for a good restaurant for dinner. Unfortunately, with the holiday, most restaurants in Binondo are packed! While walking around, the lively sound of drumbeats suddenly filled up the streets. We made a dash towards it, navigating our way around the crowd to catch the dragon dance. </div>
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Walking further along, we saw children doing their own version of the dragon dance. With their DIY masks, makeshift drums - an empty 5 gallon water bottle, they caught a lot of attention from passers by. I felt sorry that they were in the streets, but a huge part of me also felt admiration for their grit and creativity. They caught a lot of attention too other people. I noticed many stopped to take videos, give money, some even gave them food. I feel that it wasn't purely out of pity, but because they genuinely appreciated their raw performance. </div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Continuing our walk, we saw a lot of street vendors selling figurines of the metal rat and other animals from the zodiac, bracelets and fruits. </span><span style="text-align: justify;"> I stopped to buy kiat-kiat, those sweet, citrusy mini oranges. Easy to peel and quite refreshing, I could imagine it to be an excellent trail food for a quick day hike. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">We made a short stop to another historical attraction in the area, Jones Bridge. </span><span style="text-align: justify;">Around the last stretch of 2019, </span><span style="text-align: justify;">pictures of the Jones bridge circulated around social media, when its rehabilitation was completed, so we wanted to see it for ourselves. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">N</span><span style="text-align: justify;">amed after William A. Jones, it served as memorial to the House Sponsor of the Jones Act </span><span style="text-align: justify;">which promised the independence of the Philippines from America, once a stable government was established.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">The bridge was completed in 1920, two years prior to Jones' death, but was destroyed in 1945 during WWII. In 1950, it was <a href="https://www.esquiremag.ph/long-reads/features/meaning-of-la-madre-statues-a00293-20191125-lfrm" target="_blank">rebuilt by the US-Philippine War Damage Commission</a>. </span><br />
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To cap off our evening, we had dinner at 1919 Grand Cafe, an old repurposed building of HSBC built in 1922. There was line to get inside the restaurant. Fortunately, we were seated in less than 20 minutes. The menu is a mix of Western and Chinese dishes. To give way to our cravings, we ordered dimsum and rice, which were worth the wait. I also ordered iced black coffee and it was good! Adding to the nice dining experience were the staff, all were all-smiles and efficient. It was definitely a nice way to end the first day of the lunar new year.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nicely plated dimsum at Grand Cafe 1919</td></tr>
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Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-79435071034451798002020-04-11T22:26:00.004+08:002021-04-24T15:57:42.487+08:00A Day Hike at Mt. Talinis (Apolong to Bediao Trail)<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Rain poured heavily as we began our hike in Apolong, Valencia. It was 7:00 AM, an hour later than we had intended to start. A mix-up with our transportation caused the delay but nevertheless, we welcomed the early morning shower. </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"> </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">As we approached the first hour of our hike, I'm drenched from head to foot, a mix of perspiration, rain and mud. It sounds icky but I can't complain. We were in a mountain, breathing fresh air</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">. As we walked on mud, a s</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">quishy sound followed us and I </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">joyfully squealed inside. It's my favorite sound! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxFEIQxVokQQeh3NsxL7oIOxjx9tYgBfV0tKm5Y38yBeUy7lTgWa_Z_fCGSKNxAuGpBTqz4zis2AoFlvVB95EOps-QWoW7Z4GrlNid27ZbBUVW091rSyiv89t-PgEmboOQwnvIXEenoQ/s2048/IMG_7109.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxFEIQxVokQQeh3NsxL7oIOxjx9tYgBfV0tKm5Y38yBeUy7lTgWa_Z_fCGSKNxAuGpBTqz4zis2AoFlvVB95EOps-QWoW7Z4GrlNid27ZbBUVW091rSyiv89t-PgEmboOQwnvIXEenoQ/w640-h480/IMG_7109.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;">After three hours, we arrived at the junction leading to the Twin Falls. The falls are 15 minutes off the trail and though the cascades were not yet visible to to us, we could hear the roar of the water, its strong current flowing into the river we were walking on. </span></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">What a marvellous reveal it was when we finally arrived at its base - two towering waterfalls, surrounded by thick vegetation. The </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">sound of water hitting the pool and rocks was deafening, it commanded our full attention. </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">We spent half an hour taking photos and admiring the view that we had to ourselves. The hike could have ended there and it would have been worth it.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: cente r;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">with Nylor and PJ at the twin falls</span></i></td></tr>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">As we </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">went on </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">our hike, the trail became more steeper. </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">Soon, we found ourselves entangled in nature's obstacle course. As though we haven't had enough challenges, several traps were set along the way, in the form of thorny bushes, growing surreptitiously low in the forest floor. If your legs get caught up, it sends a sharp pain on your skin, like someone had pricked you with a pin and drew a line with it. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnI9aEgqID1tRGrz_V9Hk8FBcrvfFxoht6T9AyoALq4qCBVtKstQC8WSiBOfbrx_dthKJMuXL7aFCpbYwCzjmGBy2DyYtQFvtouKAjD4ptkG2RLx_IFxS6lnaEsbDtQrHY3s0ekmv2sw/s1600/IMG_7071.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnI9aEgqID1tRGrz_V9Hk8FBcrvfFxoht6T9AyoALq4qCBVtKstQC8WSiBOfbrx_dthKJMuXL7aFCpbYwCzjmGBy2DyYtQFvtouKAjD4ptkG2RLx_IFxS6lnaEsbDtQrHY3s0ekmv2sw/s640/IMG_7071.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ed of <a href="https://eazytraveler.net/" target="_blank">EAZYtraveler.net</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">After passing the painful traps, we arrived </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"> to a huge grassland with a hut, table and bench and water source, an ideal spot to take our lunch. </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">Continuing our hike, the trail got steeper and more challenging</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"> but seeing interesting plants and flowers around was quite invigorating. Since we were all plant enthusiasts, we stopped numerous times to admire what we saw and took photos so we could get its name after.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPuIFo1g2E9J72TJxZszBCf569D7GIRqUDbS8V9zXIULghpG4Rhsl7WjEjxfBAdsUDuTwnRSvO5ZoPClzRLK4tMHN1ViP0AHedmci23D28YSPhxG96tpJj6ySvuyrUXF6EQkK3-3jHm6Q/s1600/IMG_7086.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPuIFo1g2E9J72TJxZszBCf569D7GIRqUDbS8V9zXIULghpG4Rhsl7WjEjxfBAdsUDuTwnRSvO5ZoPClzRLK4tMHN1ViP0AHedmci23D28YSPhxG96tpJj6ySvuyrUXF6EQkK3-3jHm6Q/s640/IMG_7086.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">Soon, we arrived at the sulfuric vents. With the sight of dead trees and mist coveri</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">ng the tree tops, the environment reminded me of a winter hike in </span><a href="http://www.jovialwanderer.com/2018/04/canada-rattray-marsh-trail.html" target="_blank">Rattray Marsh in Canada</a>, minus the stench of rotten eggs, characteristic of the smell of sulfur. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>sulfuric vents area. (Photo by Ed)</i></span></td></tr>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">Our last stop was at Lake Yagumyum, a small lake with a mountain serving as its backdrop. With mist on its peaks and tall grasses everywhere, it felt like we were in a lost world with a pterodactyl about to appear from the sky, any second</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">. </span> </span><br />
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">3.5 hours away is a</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"> bigger lake,</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"> </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Nailig. It serves as </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">the primary campsite for those who are spending a night at Mt. Talinis. From there, the summit is 2 hours away. </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Much as I wanted to see Lake Nailig and the summit, it was too late to press on.</span><br />
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">From Lake Yagumyum, we hiked down Bediao Trail in Dauin. By 4:40 PM, we were back at the trail head, where a hired tricycle was waiting to bring us back to Dumaguete. There are no amenities here but it's near to beach resorts. Our group however, opted to travel back to the city on wet clothes so we could have a good dinner and catch the movie, Onward (it's a good one!). :P </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7QnP8K4QFWfCtoOnnbNpOzThZxVXJzLPOoAy9l03B-kTSsvtcxbHSzLU2N6HPXAanOCb18O2WCveI9UMxFpuSpPKm0JoLy3glVLBNmqct_jkukn_v_MwY4RMnnJFvSUWtV_sdo3rkqoI/s1600/IMG_3838.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7QnP8K4QFWfCtoOnnbNpOzThZxVXJzLPOoAy9l03B-kTSsvtcxbHSzLU2N6HPXAanOCb18O2WCveI9UMxFpuSpPKm0JoLy3glVLBNmqct_jkukn_v_MwY4RMnnJFvSUWtV_sdo3rkqoI/s640/IMG_3838.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>all smiles as we reached the end of the trail. </i></span></td></tr>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Though we weren't fated to see the summit on this hike, seeing the Twin Falls, the sulfur vents and having a quiet time at Lake Nailig made up for a wonderful day hike. </span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"><b><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">ITINERARY </span></b></span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">6:00 AM - pick-up from hotel in Dumaguete city</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">6:30 AM - arrival at registration area at Apolong. Fill up forms.</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">7:00 AM - Start hike via Apolong, Valencia-Casaroro jump-off</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">10:00 AM - arrival at Twin Falls</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">10:30 AM - depart from Twin Falls</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">11:15 AM - lunch</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">12:00 PM - resume hike</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">12:30 PM - arrival at Sulfur vents</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">1:00 PM - resume hike</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">2:30 PM - arrival at Lake Nailig</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">3:00 PM - resume hike</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">4:40 PM - ETA, Bediao exit point. Take tricycle back to Dumaguete</span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">5:15 PM - ETA, Dumaguete City</span><br />
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"><i><b>For other helpful information sources, check out the traveler reviews at </b></i><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/Attraction_Review-g616032-d1569739-Reviews-Mount_Talinis-Dumaguete_City_Negros_Oriental_Negros_Island_Visayas.html" target="_blank"><i><b>Trip Adviso</b></i>r.</a></span></div>
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"><b>EXPENSES FOR 4 PAX</b></span><br />
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Guide:1500/group (Contact:</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Jerald Quitoy Tilos: +63 9561974734)</span></span><br />
<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Transpo: 600/pax(from hotel to jump off vv. Contact : </span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Joker +63 965-802-7495</span><span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">)</span></span><br />
<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Climb permit: 50/pax</span><br />
<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif">Total= 1025/pax</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">ACCOMMODATION IN DUMAGUETE</b><br />
<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"><a href="https://www.agoda.com/hotel-nicanor/hotel/dumaguete-ph.html?cid=1844104" target="_blank">Hotel Nicanor</a> (booked through Agoda) - clean rooms, friendly staff, near to ATMs, restaurants. Highly recommended if you're looking and fast internet. </span><br />
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<span face=""trebuchet ms" , sans-serif"><i><span style="color: blue;"><b>Thanks to PJ for organizing this hike! </b></span></i></span></div>
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Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-30307665319508718452020-04-04T12:54:00.004+08:002020-04-04T12:54:34.785+08:00Weekend at Montebello (Cebu)<div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One of my best friends from high school now lives overseas. Last year, she returned for a short vacation with her family to their province, Cebu. Taking this as the perfect time</span> for an overdue reunion, I flew in from Manila with our other good friends. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtUkhAx0M6nqj3-S-gxbbXq_LYITzhe-OzmvVQ0mE19qGdf_sPZzNvMsoruvKhvglLychnn_jr5Ip3R5dkCw20MfW2zCZTgjIJtpDkx0ZUVDuTSyVgz6N7NbmaEL9n2magMBvRWP9Dao/s1600/8e036cf8-6377-4290-94f1-acda7c0805ef.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtUkhAx0M6nqj3-S-gxbbXq_LYITzhe-OzmvVQ0mE19qGdf_sPZzNvMsoruvKhvglLychnn_jr5Ip3R5dkCw20MfW2zCZTgjIJtpDkx0ZUVDuTSyVgz6N7NbmaEL9n2magMBvRWP9Dao/s400/8e036cf8-6377-4290-94f1-acda7c0805ef.jpeg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We stayed at <a href="https://montebellovillahotel.com/" target="_blank">Montebello Villa</a>, a garden hotel in Banilad. It's off the main road, but still conveniently located near Gaisano Country Mall, 11 KM from the domestic airport. It has been open since 1972 and a popular venue for special occasions. With its classy interiors, well-maintained facilities, efficient service and friendly atmosphere, it's easy to see why it's a favorite. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>The view from our room's balcony</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">There are friends you haven't seen in the flesh for years but the moment you're within spitting distance, you just pick up where you left off, laughing and talking the same way you</span>'ve been doing since you were teenagers. It's a golden connection, one worth preserving and traveling for. I'm very thankful that it's the same for us. The moment we got inside our room, we just talked and laughed as though we often spend time together. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJNqsvL1FAWnouwOskcc1Sazx1gHloB7gjHF-7zAO4xO6h4IAmkn05KRu1z4DM0qiwBAc-S6W5xupldIN64LZHhKfGgIWr68Hl6QDjSDm8Z2is_ICALXY7szSpS3KihHwpefuFRV_0cQ/s1600/IMG_0749.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJNqsvL1FAWnouwOskcc1Sazx1gHloB7gjHF-7zAO4xO6h4IAmkn05KRu1z4DM0qiwBAc-S6W5xupldIN64LZHhKfGgIWr68Hl6QDjSDm8Z2is_ICALXY7szSpS3KihHwpefuFRV_0cQ/s400/IMG_0749.jpeg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Hotel lobby. Those chairs are beautiful!</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> We spent our entire time in the hotel, hopping from its restaurant, cafe, garden and our rooms. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9p6o-MwBj41so-eMIKroBOCHTiqqC3EmKGNh7dV-5HePQAhzI36eg7li6yvANfRKHgv6ygRYo6eT-7bbdy5a2scZpDOajwqYUJke4t3S19idh2CYXkDGT-AP35iRxPh5E5VQHJJu5NuM/s400/d6f7b907-5112-458c-936a-3b1c3c950534.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Us :) Missing Rea and Joy!</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Montebello carries an old world charm and looks like someone's home, making it a great place to enjoy a quiet time, solo or with loved ones. Though it's not close to the beach, it has facilities like gym, </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">swimming pools and a game room to keep you entertained. The famed beaches in Mactan, </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">are about 40 minutes away and you can just take a cab or rental to get there. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We had so much fun reminiscing about the good, old days. Playing in the varsity, we struggled together, trying to maintain a balance between school and football (two other friends were in the basketball team). It was really challenging, having to go to practice after classes, going to games on weekends, football camps in the summer. With all that time we spent together, we became like an extended family and though it was hard to be a student athlete, I remember it as mostly being fun because of them and the rest of our team.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXMeQV19GfnbMQlyskLb_td7lEnPbLT87WBoSFYsRWiZHBTXkTXsoAbEuFLnxRMo8iAXN-IZGR5w2Pg8Hgm-FNNEQTSZ5KshSbN79ZQe_26I2WOIaj5noddsWuJOZQvqGd3iSKV7EIK9o/s1600/IMG_0715.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXMeQV19GfnbMQlyskLb_td7lEnPbLT87WBoSFYsRWiZHBTXkTXsoAbEuFLnxRMo8iAXN-IZGR5w2Pg8Hgm-FNNEQTSZ5KshSbN79ZQe_26I2WOIaj5noddsWuJOZQvqGd3iSKV7EIK9o/s400/IMG_0715.jpeg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Afternoon tea</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The afternoon tea took nearly an hour before it arrived. The staff were apologetic, mentioning that everything was freshly made. It looks dainty and beautiful but we all attacked it as though we were trying to make a goal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For dinner, the restaurant had a nice Spanish buffet. The tables were beautifully set-up and decorated with rose vases. A band was also going around playing requests from each table. The vibe was as upbeat as our appetites. The croquettes were so good! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9MDLBGerxsGUnj_pfXtOL4-b33U92gOUVONO4ygzxarkgaGhty0TMRMnfvKOIZRXqMTZVSKyskTDoCE4UItBrl2nIGsXc40NsC_Js6i5V9mwJXjY82ofj9o7aRxP8UjEkDtxiwYT8Fg/s1600/IMG_0720.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9MDLBGerxsGUnj_pfXtOL4-b33U92gOUVONO4ygzxarkgaGhty0TMRMnfvKOIZRXqMTZVSKyskTDoCE4UItBrl2nIGsXc40NsC_Js6i5V9mwJXjY82ofj9o7aRxP8UjEkDtxiwYT8Fg/s320/IMG_0720.jpeg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Buffet breakfast was fun, as with all our meals. There's adequate spread of Western and Filipino dishes. Dining area was packed but service was efficient. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbVQT0c5YTf4Qf1cW3f3nwhhyphenhyphenrIJ8q1QbWDb52N8Bd42L9YgxSjVpLT4h8i-ITG1Lo7SjK-WGpinD0HUlg5wjCDsvrvvQmuqUtdnp8bSKLp_vgoJDAJZJGT6B7Dv0w8AKe2Ny9kuqDxQ/s1600/IMG_0729.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbVQT0c5YTf4Qf1cW3f3nwhhyphenhyphenrIJ8q1QbWDb52N8Bd42L9YgxSjVpLT4h8i-ITG1Lo7SjK-WGpinD0HUlg5wjCDsvrvvQmuqUtdnp8bSKLp_vgoJDAJZJGT6B7Dv0w8AKe2Ny9kuqDxQ/s400/IMG_0729.jpeg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>t</i></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>he pool looks even more inviting at night</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A weekend of catching up certainly wasn't enough time but we made the most of it. Nats and I were able to make a stop at Cebu's Original Lechon Belly at Maxwell Hotel before our flight home. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Being a frequent traveler to Cebu, it feels like a second home to me because of convenient flight schedules going here</span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">. Flights from NAIA are plenty and not as expensive, as long as you don't book your flight days before (prices could go up to 5x). There's also an option to fly from Clark if you're coming from northern Luzon. Looking for a place to stay is easy and there's a good variety of </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">things to do from nature to city adventures. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here are some links to Cebu travel information for your reference.</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://www.traveling-up.com/10-things-to-do-in-cebu/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Travel Up | Cebu Travel Guide</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.detourista.com/guide/cebu/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Detourtist | Cebu Trip Guide for First-timers</span></a></div>
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Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-65393266654736883162020-01-12T18:11:00.003+08:002020-01-12T18:11:35.824+08:00A Beautiful Afternoon Hike at Jinmianshan (Taipei)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx0BQ4qofdI0aJhd9ovweycgVmAK-JfXpAOP0AtkHenouA-xFksIbPHFZeI6AJB9V9WkoR7ampghMoA1ShFaFT8YkIXMLYt_QC3BIqsFAkwkUYXMEB_G6s_36bvkaJ57KhgOtpTUcn1pY/s1600/fullsizeoutput_2858.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx0BQ4qofdI0aJhd9ovweycgVmAK-JfXpAOP0AtkHenouA-xFksIbPHFZeI6AJB9V9WkoR7ampghMoA1ShFaFT8YkIXMLYt_QC3BIqsFAkwkUYXMEB_G6s_36bvkaJ57KhgOtpTUcn1pY/s640/fullsizeoutput_2858.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at the peak of Jinmianshan</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It had been raining for the past 3 days since we arrived in Taipei but on our last day, we were granted a short window of dry skies. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I took advantage of the good weather by going to the Jinmianshan Trail in Neihu District. As I was staying near Taipei Main station, it was easy to reach by subway (I strongly recommend downloading Google maps and following directions from there).</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvwqTxuzWoK0PFBSB9mhFBuq-0p2KzP5HWiEhK8XN3pWYgz4O3XnfvfbAeMYh0uF43yBnEVBetoY5rl15BnUCWiFg5UL72IzURftMv_XLS7Cf9jj4bGviTkTA05rWWIPIPqCKWF1AbDg/s1600/fullsizeoutput_1edb.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvwqTxuzWoK0PFBSB9mhFBuq-0p2KzP5HWiEhK8XN3pWYgz4O3XnfvfbAeMYh0uF43yBnEVBetoY5rl15BnUCWiFg5UL72IzURftMv_XLS7Cf9jj4bGviTkTA05rWWIPIPqCKWF1AbDg/s640/fullsizeoutput_1edb.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There are three ways up its peak (</span><a href="https://www.goteamjosh.com/blog/jinmian" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;" target="_blank">this blog </a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">served as my primary guide). One takes you to the back of the mountain by car, one is a short, steep ascent, 900 meter long and my preferred option - a long, easy hike on a forest covered trail, the longest of the route at 4.1KM. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I wasn't after mileage really, I just enjoy long, easy walks. Unfortunately, </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">my navigation skills had failed me and so I ended up walking by the road and entering the trail from a small parking lot.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCudE6nn1P4uQMIQtIGT0jRpC1TLZa8E540nik8jHvkFGLxT6ryjeuXgoTeR-WLekKfieVtKdoLCbNgv77I5PFQKsbDfsH6gk-Hq3V3xHo5I_fIgA0gC7YLuZweOMox6xI_j6m8bfm-M/s1600/fullsizeoutput_1f8e.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCudE6nn1P4uQMIQtIGT0jRpC1TLZa8E540nik8jHvkFGLxT6ryjeuXgoTeR-WLekKfieVtKdoLCbNgv77I5PFQKsbDfsH6gk-Hq3V3xHo5I_fIgA0gC7YLuZweOMox6xI_j6m8bfm-M/s640/fullsizeoutput_1f8e.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rope section. A bit daunting but just look at that view!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There are no fees to be paid and guides required, which is a nice change from hiking in the Philippines where you need to pay for entry fees and guides most of the time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">From here, I begun my stairs ascent. It was already past 2:00 PM and the humidity was quite high. Thankfully, the trees offered shade. Just when I felt like melting from the heat, breeze came. I looked up and saw heavy clouds loomed above. It looked like heavy rain was coming my way so I tried to walk as quickly as I can, but I stopped frequently as there were several beautiful distractions along the way, offering views of the city as early as 10 minutes into the hike.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Another interesting feature of the trail worth stopping for is the Neihu Qing Dynasty Quarry, a municipal heritage site. Qing Dynasty is the last imperial dynasty of China which ruled in the coastal parts of Taiwan from 1683-1895 (Source : <a href="https://www.taiwan.gov.tw/content_3.php" target="_blank">Taiwan.gov.tw</a>).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It took me about 20 minutes to get to the rope section which wasn't as scary as I imagined it would be. You just have to be careful with your steps as there are sharp rocks along the way and you'll be passing the edge of the mountain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">From here, it's another 15-20 minutes to the boulder peak which offers a 360-view of nearby mountains and the city. I wanted to go to the Scissor rock, a notable rock formation with a flat surface, making it an ideal place to sit. There were only a handful of people when I got there so I picked out a spot to sit and relish the view. It was just a short hike, just as easy as going up the more popular Elephant mountain but in terms of the trail and the view, this has easily won me over. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">What a rewarding afternoon hike!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here's the very helpful resource I used for this hike, complete with maps to the trailhead (thank you!) : </span><a href="https://www.goteamjosh.com/blog/jinmian" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;" target="_blank">Go Team Josh | Jinmianshan</a><br />
<br />Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-70825778833280840962019-11-14T21:15:00.001+08:002019-11-14T21:15:09.998+08:00How to Celebrate Thanksgiving on your Travels<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/5088/5216035101_f4f2ac8a90_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="640" height="424" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/5088/5216035101_f4f2ac8a90_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Celebrate by hosting a friendsgiving, you cook the turkey and everyone else can bring the sides!<br />(<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/kimberlykv/5216035101/in/photolist-8WVxvF-8WYy8b-7h5rbE-7h1wcn-5Sfp5D-4gVC7H-7wMTHo-49bD95-7jrkcd-Bwqb8-vBe2a-5tecF-7vxo7q-N6pZ78-7iBFpu-tCobC-aLgf7e-drTKK-7isc7x-8WF5ah-pgMCCt-aLp8ka-48EwSk-5t7TwV-6THCz-5Mb4HG-e6pZzm-t4mAW-2hbHA9t-7h3WZx-2heefsN-8TNJX6-4fHvZM-psLMaN-89KXRa-7oyP6A-287QFxW-7jrShh-7g1AVS-aKffmp-7vtyKF-vUHjB-3i3SXN-xoJhT5-8oUizs-bmKCU-76LgbJ-BmqWsm-wrTaMX-CvD8mK" target="_blank">Photo</a> by Kimberly Vardeman / <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC by 2.0</a>)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">For Americans, Thanksgiving is a really important time of the year. It's a chance to reflect on the year that has passed, all the reasons to be cheerful and to be grateful for our good luck. It's a time to come together and celebrate. Perhaps most importantly, it's a time to eat loads of delicious food.
If you happen to be travelling around New York during Thanksgiving, then it might be a good idea to get yourself a slice of the action, here's how! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Watch the Macy's Day Thanksgiving Parade </b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Macy's Day Parade is a Joy to Watch (<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/euthman/11116167163/in/photolist-hWigdx-8WwZsx-SteX37-GwayZP-ZnACfu-21q1p1J-21sKb4T-ZnDrpA-Dk48F3-ZnAuqS-21q1fsb-Dk5Akd-GwaS7e-CoeQKB-T47T1V-RP8x5k-hVGXwt-8WynZF-DTQhxQ-2e8hW5q-21sAaD2-dudYwe-dvTLfU-RLyMVG-DjV38q-8WzXZW-T4aaxP-8WZUyc-Gw8wUk-RNgkiK-Dk3Ur7-21sK5FP-Dk3ugd-21q1ACm-SQRSVn-StcGnE-21q1iJw-2fed296-RNgo1i-Dk5vt9-Dk4t41-21q3PxW-RMSqR4-8WZPVx-hWhXTn-hVKoCC-hVoh6c-hVSMv7-prUtCR-Stczpw" target="_blank">Photo</a> by Ed Uthman / <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC by 2.0)</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The Macy's Day Parade is quite a New York institution. This spectacular kicks off at 9am sharp and carries on for a staggering three hours! Expect to see famous faces performing, dance troops, no less than thirty four floats and a plethora of gigantic balloons!
Ones to watch out for this year include the Giant Snoopy Astronaut, which honours the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. This balloon behemoth is as tall as a four-storey building and will be the 40th time Snoopy has been in the parade. Cartoon enthusiasts should also look out for Spongebob Squarepants and Dr Seuss' Sam, from Green Eggs and Ham. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Organise a Friendsgiving </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If you're lucky enough to be travelling in a group, or you know some people who live locally then why not organise a Friendsgiving? The term has only popped up in recent years, but <a href="https://www.pokerstars.com/en/blog/lee_jones_journal/2018/pokergiving-food-flops-and-friends-177636.shtml" target="_blank">Friendsgivings have been proving a hit</a> across the states!
Get together at one person's house (or perhaps hostel in this case!) and each bring a side dish. That way there's plenty of food for everyone and nobody is left with the mammoth task of cooking everything. After the meal, why not play some board games together or even organise a poker tournament? It's a lovely way of bringing friends together and celebrating when you're unable to be with your relations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Take Part in a Turkey Trot </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Many New Yorkers won't hesitate to tell you that Thanksgiving is mainly about eating until you can't move - and they'd be absolutely right!
However, why not burn off a few off those calories in the morning to offset some of the guilt. There are a ton of 'Turkey Trots' across the city, so you're bound to find one close to you. Simply sign up, arrive at the starting line on time and either run, jog, skip, hop or walk your way around the course.
The biggest is the New York City Turkey Trot, which takes place on Roosevelt Island. You can either run 15k or walk 5k and its brilliant location means that you'll have breathtaking views of Manhattan the whole way around. The best bit? There are freshly baked cinnamon rolls for everyone that finishes, so you can start that Thanksgiving binge early!
Some Turkey Trots can sell out of spaces quite quickly, so if you do happen to be unlucky and can't get yourself a space then don't panic. Thanksgiving is a blessedly quiet day for most of the hiking trails around the outskirts of the city, so why not capitalise on it? Either set off by yourself or get a group of friends together and <a href="http://www.jovialwanderer.com/2017/07/12-useful-things-to-bring-on-your-first.html" target="_blank">organise a hike</a>. It's a healthy way to start the day and you'll be able to get in touch with nature a little more quietly than normal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Go Out to Eat</b> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This is the bit that we're all really here for, if you haven't been organised enough to sort out a Friendsgiving, then going out to eat is your best bet.
Thankfully, there are <a href="https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/dining/g13438943/nyc-restaurants-open-on-thanksgiving/" target="_blank">plenty of restaurants that open for Thanksgiving</a>, but a particularly friendly one is Houseman in the West Village. This restaurant encourages homestyle dining all year round, but particularly for this holiday. The chefs source only the best ingredients, which they used to create simple dishes that pack a real punch of flavour.
Expect old favourites to be elevated to new heights, be it mac and cheese, or burger and fries, everything is cooked to perfection. It's lip-smackingly good and even when your stomach is groaning, you'll be reaching for another spoonful - exactly what you want from holiday food!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><b>Note : The above article was written by one of the site's contributors. If you have any concerns about this post, please send an email to tine.fernandez@gmail.com. </b></i></span></span></h4>
Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-47291929195420919352019-10-30T06:54:00.000+08:002019-11-14T21:15:24.065+08:00How to Spend a Weekend in Siargao<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If you just have a weekend in Siargao, well, you're indeed not doing justice with yourself or the trip! :) After all, it's simply impossible to enjoy the natural beauty and splendor of this beautiful island of the Philippines in two days. Given unlimited time, one can easily spend a whole month here and still not get tired of the vacation. If you were able to <a href="https://www.traveloka.com/en-ph/flight/to/Siargao.IAO/1" target="_blank">book flights to Siargao online</a> and only have a weekend to spare, what you can do is plan your itinerary well to make the most of your trip. The right time to come to Siargao will depend on what you're looking for. While many go during the peak season, others prefer it when it's less crowded. July to November is the best time for surfing in Siargao but outside the peak season, there are also plenty of things to do out here.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLC-jRrkjk0Rkl0blGa2hKoY3y_jX0SOrS64guZsdESxpu2e8p7eCK7a0myFdSMw898k8iP68FzT5LD_kru6VZBzQoi0l_UY0XASeRiPvPEFLiIe2M2BUSBvWacgm_6BJqLumgPtmfzO4/s1600/15639170611_b32ea3e7f9_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="929" data-original-width="1600" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLC-jRrkjk0Rkl0blGa2hKoY3y_jX0SOrS64guZsdESxpu2e8p7eCK7a0myFdSMw898k8iP68FzT5LD_kru6VZBzQoi0l_UY0XASeRiPvPEFLiIe2M2BUSBvWacgm_6BJqLumgPtmfzO4/s640/15639170611_b32ea3e7f9_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sugba Lagoon (Photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/h20tubig/15639170611/in/photolist-Uaqqte-V84oGU-YmbFeU-YXiitF-DiG7kW-LTH4Pv-2dX7wFE-pN9wLj-Sx6DsE-Rz26az-pN9EXj-NQupfU-Wg9Zr8-pPYQyB-fkqPcC-STFgoA-YtQTPQ-WgahD4-TpWPHw-QyCfvU-UsDPXo-K1xTHe-K1xSTi-K1xV2M-H8Lbth-2dQuhRq-2dQuhHj-Nw1bM3-NNicqQ-NYB5Ex-H57ZdJ-TJA2vt-Et9V1P-MADUkq" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Haya Benitez</a>. License <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CC BY-NC-SA 2.0</a>)</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>SIARGAO WEEKEND ITINERARY</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here's how to cover the most on those two days you have in Siargao.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>SATURDAY </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Start the day with a trip to Sugba Lagoon, and the busty of it sure to make your jaw drop. Spend some great time here and jump off into the lagoon or paddle in the aquamarine water. After all, there’s nothing more relaxing than going to the beach and just lying down, gazing at the blue skies. Why not take out some time to learn how to surf as Siargao is the surf capital of the Philippines. Locate an uncrowded surf area and get trained by an expert. Some of the most popular spots for surfing include G1, Cloud 9, Pansukian Reef, Daku Reef, and Pacifico. These spots are well known for beginner classes and are popular as surf spots. Once you’ve tried surfing, why not check out the Taktak Falls. This is indeed an off-the-beaten-path for the tourists that’s worth a visit. You are in the most amazing countryside of Siargao and will find yourself surrounded by the lush green vegetation, and the views - priceless!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.jovialwanderer.com/2016/12/hiking-in-samal-island-davao-del-norte.html" target="_blank"><i>If you love beach and short hikes, you may also want to check out, Samal Island in Davao</i></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>SUNDAY</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Spend the Sunday on an island-hopping excursion and explore the nearby islands like Naked, Daku, and Guyam Islands. Discover the white sandy beaches with gorgeous turquoise waters. You can relax on the beaches or swim in the gorgeous clear waters or explore the charming fishing villages. Once you are done with island tours, take out time to enjoy the Magpupungko Rock Pools. All you need to do is rent a motorbike and explore the town on your own and head towards the north where the rock pools are located. You can rent out a motorbike or hire a habal-habal , based on your preferences and budget. There are lovely beaches, and you can locate an uncrowded spot to explore beyond the main pool. The natural rock formations look very impressive, and tourists love to swim deep down in those natural pools that are bounded by a large reef. And if you still have time, why not go to the Coconut Palm Forest, which is a short drive away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>SOME USEFUL TIPS FOR TRAVELERS </b></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As flights to Siargao can be expensive, book ahead and take advantage of </span><a href="https://www.traveloka.com/en-ph/jetstar" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;" target="_blank">cheap Jetstar flights </a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">for lower fares. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As there are not plenty of ATMs on the islands, it is best to carry ample cash with you when you arrive here. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Refill your water bottle and apply loads of sunscreen as you will need them both. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Enjoy the Seafood, which is pretty inexpensive here, and you can gorge on the fresh catch of fishermen just out of the sea. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Where to stay in Siargao - the majority of tourists prefer to stay somewhere near General Luna as the area is close to restaurants, tours, bars, and hotels.</span></li>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Note : The above article was written by one of the site's contributors. If you have any concerns about this post, please send an email to tine.fernandez@gmail.com. </b></i></span>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-19676541301017369412019-08-25T19:08:00.003+08:002019-08-25T19:21:47.614+08:00Food Trip : Pacing's House of Barbeque (Navotas)<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I rarely venture far from home because of the traffic - unless it’s for a travel or hiking trip, but JZ, an old friend, outdoorsman turned entrepreneur had started a food business in Navotas, roughly 25 KM away from my comfort zone and I wanted to show my support.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Opened in May 2016, Pacing's House of Barbeque features an heirloom recipe from JZ's late grandma, wine-marinated barbeque that she used to serve during family gatherings.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFY29YiLDhXEOV3wvnaU5F3_cj97tm0940hmIfmCmrSVcRBYC3U3vM8XiiAmHQWI5p2cKpvDfaHb_PjAv9eQAmwMxrk0tCn72gJs6tIVMuJMHg91q3lbz_n4ihFcYQY51pjYi_q1CwTAo/s1600/29744357_10210826902620084_7688639009343145112_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFY29YiLDhXEOV3wvnaU5F3_cj97tm0940hmIfmCmrSVcRBYC3U3vM8XiiAmHQWI5p2cKpvDfaHb_PjAv9eQAmwMxrk0tCn72gJs6tIVMuJMHg91q3lbz_n4ihFcYQY51pjYi_q1CwTAo/s640/29744357_10210826902620084_7688639009343145112_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lola Pacing's wine-marinated barbeque. (Photo from Anne)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Its interiors are simple, giving it an atmosphere that's pretty chill</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">, a place where you can bring your family and friends for good food without having to bother about what you're going to wear. It's a go to place when you want to skip cooking or if you're craving for something tasty after a tough day. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">interiors of Pacing's House of Barbeque</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Aside from the savory chunks of pork barbeque, it also offers a variety of sizzling dishes - pork, seafood (shrimp, fish) and tofu; other Filipino favorites, calamares, SILOG (Sinangag and Itlog) paired with meat like barbeque, tapa (marinated beef). There's also an offering for a growing segment of foodies, vegan chopsuey. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Keeping up to its mission of serving affordable and delicious food to the regular Pinoy, meals have a starting price of 49 Pesos and the pork barbeque at 20 Pesos/stick.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJO0JGzJzcHFqEwpzJy8UU61FsxSzDBxOkI4wC3Xlk0u9ubWBmCI2o2YEKxEK8BQ0ywhgZg26UdW3K6HG7DUFq7i0QhyGQg1mXXyY6bL-MKrd-w1DrEvusbpyArBZSXgpm4lLdYWrtqHA/s1600/29744739_10210826902260075_5111447726249546944_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJO0JGzJzcHFqEwpzJy8UU61FsxSzDBxOkI4wC3Xlk0u9ubWBmCI2o2YEKxEK8BQ0ywhgZg26UdW3K6HG7DUFq7i0QhyGQg1mXXyY6bL-MKrd-w1DrEvusbpyArBZSXgpm4lLdYWrtqHA/s640/29744739_10210826902260075_5111447726249546944_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wine-marinated pork belly (Photo fr Anne)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Though I'm more into seafood and vegetables, I enjoyed the enhanced flavor of the wine-marinated dishes. The pork belly has a rich sauce that went so well with rice. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And because I love tofu, my favorite would be the sizzling tofu. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Complimenting its rich flavors is San Mig Cola which is something I rarely see around. It's worth a try! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For desserts, they have gourmet style ice cream from Arce Dairy, a classic!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75hXKRkmMWN1vdg_kEQ74vQ8EJXHh5o7esM9L6JZ-qJKY74B0gTBI_8XNIxHtNfH9j0xso9LXcCKskzArND8c60F1FWYeuZvss_AGHvhyAzgZBoIthT8lB6WcPONeL3JVVmR59tSd5bc/s1600/29694741_1802024869850508_4880343021725417472_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1199" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75hXKRkmMWN1vdg_kEQ74vQ8EJXHh5o7esM9L6JZ-qJKY74B0gTBI_8XNIxHtNfH9j0xso9LXcCKskzArND8c60F1FWYeuZvss_AGHvhyAzgZBoIthT8lB6WcPONeL3JVVmR59tSd5bc/s640/29694741_1802024869850508_4880343021725417472_o.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Mig cola</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Leaving a stable corporate job takes guts and a lot of hard work, things I've always find admirable among my freelancer/entrepreneur friends. Congrats to you JZ and Carla! :)</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7c4WcYozYiLcHsbOJcTJD6AuFF1KhO0kz-2HOW-rwO_vwtUc7nUoG0CRdblgKUbpwAVGKQni-2w2BheSW1WzfWIXRg6pJDgYNEp64INJUIcQdpbtPQfgYcU_0Xi2FhTYZpazWbMd7ReE/s1600/29749612_10210826901980068_7355217443791699867_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7c4WcYozYiLcHsbOJcTJD6AuFF1KhO0kz-2HOW-rwO_vwtUc7nUoG0CRdblgKUbpwAVGKQni-2w2BheSW1WzfWIXRg6pJDgYNEp64INJUIcQdpbtPQfgYcU_0Xi2FhTYZpazWbMd7ReE/s640/29749612_10210826901980068_7355217443791699867_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With JZ and another good friend of ours, Anne (Photo fr Anne).<br />
Excuse the paper bag, brought him pasalubong from Max's and tarts from Kumori. Hehe! </td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br />Pacing's House of Barbeque</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Facebook Page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pacingsHOB/" target="_blank">here</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Business Hours : 5pm to 12am (Tuesday-Sunday)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Address : 5 Judge A. Roldan St. Cor. De Asis St. San Roque, Navotas City</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Contact Number : +63 (02) 402 6011</span>Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6032442465188222597.post-63525450709730178562019-05-19T16:57:00.001+08:002019-05-24T21:04:07.502+08:00SOCCSKSARGEN Region : A Morning at GenSan's Fish Port Complex <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Initially, I wasn't keen on joining my friends for an early morning trip to the fish port, a popular attraction in the country's tuna capital, GenSan. Due to lack of information, I had misjudged the place to be a big tourist trap, chaotic, wet and smelly. Admittedly, I was wrong and </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I'm thankful I was swayed to join them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">General Santos Fish Port in Barangay Tambler covers </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">32 hectares and is the Philippines' second largest fish port, next to the one in Navotas.</span><i> </i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>(See traveller reviews on </i></span><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Trip Advisor </span><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/Attraction_Review-g317125-d2666035-Reviews-General_Santos_City_Fish_Port_Complex-General_Santos_South_Cotabato_Province_Mind.html" target="_blank">here.</a>)</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP22fKl7mRCcB2BQ2zHvmzZTNNE8p1vGhSlbfM5rvjbq1NZcl5809W-7Xl4JKAITUErm2BdpC3LztzgpRI1rSzq7F2SHVh5Wnr1nZkC3O_OXTqTflG0U9w_hCRJDqBSTL8BF22vnt8Flc/s1600/fullsizeoutput_1974.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP22fKl7mRCcB2BQ2zHvmzZTNNE8p1vGhSlbfM5rvjbq1NZcl5809W-7Xl4JKAITUErm2BdpC3LztzgpRI1rSzq7F2SHVh5Wnr1nZkC3O_OXTqTflG0U9w_hCRJDqBSTL8BF22vnt8Flc/s640/fullsizeoutput_1974.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">That morning, we were up before the sun lit up the sky. Fortunately, our hotel, Square Suites, was willing to serve breakfast earlier than usual (</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Book </span><a href="https://www.agoda.com/square-suites/hotel/general-santos-ph.html?checkin=2019-05-29&los=2&adults=2&rooms=1&cid=1740538&searchrequestid=4d10e685-955a-4665-a700-4b9acef22a60&travellerType=1&tabbed=true" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">). </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">By 5:00 AM, we were out trying to hail a tricycle to the fish port complex (if I remember correctly, we paid around 200 Pesos for 4 people). It's about 25 KM away from the hotel and by 6:00 AM, we were at the gate. We</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> registered and left one ID for the entire group. Then we hitched a ride to the office to rent boots and jogging pants since I didn't have any clean ones left after our hike up Mt Apo. (Tip: Bring your own socks to wear inside the boots. If you forgot, there are socks on sale for 20 Pesos.). </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Adela and Zul at the Gen San Fish Port. Photo by Edgar | <a href="http://eazytraveler.net/" target="_blank">eazytraveler.net</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The port was a short walk from the office. At the sight of water, I was immediately drawn to the seaside. Though it was crowded with fishing boats, its water was attractive and clear, an enlivening view. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Just across the boats is the area where the main action was - batches of tuna displayed on tables, </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">people walking around carrying fish on their backs, half the size of their bodies. I noticed some carrying a long, thin metal rod which I later learned is called a sashibo, </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">a tool used by tuna graders to determine the value of a fish. It's plunged into the core of the tuna to extract a portion of its flesh. Its color, fat and texture determines its price.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The most exciting thing was </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">witnessing the bidding where people shouted maniacally to get the best ones. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The energy was as electrifying as watching the finals of a football game.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As quickly as the mania began, the bidding ended. People plastered stickers on the fishes, names of the businesses that won the bid.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We took a few more photos around the port. We were careful and made sure to stay out of the way of the people who were actually working. In less than an hour, we were ready to go and we stopped by the office to return the boots and pants and buy souvenirs (they sell unmarked canned tuna, shirts and magnets at reasonable prices).</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyhGP0x412PvOlt6LC-Zw9JbSTnylvmHLrUL58vvLboVc-lfqI8ckBCbgAEBo3JwX3WOQFCZVH1p2r3SxiuHoM7MUajryqtm5jliW7rNHCZUBiyO6hOt4cBke92UdKCZWl1oB9v-aktg/s1600/IMG_1647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="750" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyhGP0x412PvOlt6LC-Zw9JbSTnylvmHLrUL58vvLboVc-lfqI8ckBCbgAEBo3JwX3WOQFCZVH1p2r3SxiuHoM7MUajryqtm5jliW7rNHCZUBiyO6hOt4cBke92UdKCZWl1oB9v-aktg/s640/IMG_1647.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Ed of <a href="http://eazytraveler.net/">EAZYTRAVELER.net</a>, newfound friends from Malaysia - Adela of <a href="https://www.gayatravel.com.my/" target="_blank">Gaya Travel</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iamzulhilmi" target="_blank">Zul</a> in<br />
our mandatory ensemble of pants and white boots. :P (Photo fr Ed)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Much as this was a fun and exciting experience, it brings to mind, a conversation I had with a vegan friend who shared with me the issue of depleting tuna population as a result of exploitative fishing practices. If we can't avoid tuna, </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">we can help by being mindful of supporting brands that adopt sustainable fishing methods. For awareness, here are some articles on this issues : </span><a href="https://www.jamieoliver.com/features/is-eating-tuna-sustainable/" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;" target="_blank">Jamie Oliver.com : Is Eating Tuna Sustainable</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> and *</span><a href="https://www.msc.org/what-you-can-do/eat-sustainable-seafood/fish-to-eat/tuna" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;" target="_blank">MSC : Buy Sustainable Seafood</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">. *MSC or Marine Stewardhip Council is a non-profit organization that believes that "everyone </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">can play a part in protecting the future of our oceans and fish stocks, while enjoying seafood, not avoiding it."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Travel Notes:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Be respectful and keep out of the workers' way. Be mindful when taking pictures as you might accidentally get hit by workers carrying large fishes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/saranganihighlands/" target="_blank">Saranggani Highlands</a> is a good stop to have a snack or breakfast after. You can take a tricycle to the main highway and get off at the junction and hire a motorbike. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Other places of interest :</b> You can drop by GenSan after your hike at Mt. Matutum, a volcano with a beautiful forest in Tupi, South Cotabato. Blog post h<a href="http://www.jovialwanderer.com/2017/12/birthday-day-hike-at-mt-matutum-tupi.html" target="_blank">ere.</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Where to Stay in GenSan:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">We spent two nights at Square Suites which is right along the highway. Rooms are clean and beds are comfy. The bathroom could be improved as the tiles are getting yellowish. Overall, with its friendly staff, cold aircon and good beds, I'd stay here again. (Rate : Triple Room at 1500++.) More details </span><a href="https://www.agoda.com/square-suites/hotel/general-santos-ph.html?checkin=2019-05-29&los=2&adults=2&rooms=1&cid=1740538&searchrequestid=4d10e685-955a-4665-a700-4b9acef22a60&travellerType=1&tabbed=true" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>This post is part of a series about our travel around SOCKSARGEN region, an acronym of the provinces and city that comprises Region XII. It stands for South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos (Gen San) city. We have collaborated with the local tourism unit to </b></span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">help share the beauty of this region and encourage fellow travellers to visit SOX next. </b><br />
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<br />Jovial Wandererhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12300015795890662890noreply@blogger.com