2009 Aug: Angono, Rizal, Philippines: Art Appreciation Tour

Travel Date: August 15, 2009

Our team decided to have an art appreciation tour in Angono, Rizal. We took a bus going to SM Taytay from Ortigas, Pasig. From Taytay we already had a private van courtesy of our teammate.

Our first stop is the Blanco Family Museum. From parents to their kids - all of them are painting.


We had our lunch in Balaw-Balaw restaurant. I was really hoping I could try rose salad, too bad it was not available. Instead, we had adobong uok (larvae of a bettle) and fried frog legs.

Our next destination is Nemiranda Museum. Paintings were made by Neri Miranda (graduated from UST).
Then we had a chance to visit a church.

After a while, we had a long winding trip going to Petroglyphs. From the entrance, we had to walk inside a very long cave. No lights nor tourist guides. After few minutes, we reached the guard station, he is giving brief discussion on the do’s and don’ts on the viewing deck. Too bad they don’t allow SLRs. Hope they do remove this policy - how can we showcase what the place can offer if they don’t allow good cameras to capture the place.
We also had a quick view of the Thunderbird Resort, this is a casino of the East. The place is beautiful, the swimming pool is like an infinity pool over looking the metro.

We had our final stop in a Viewing Deck. It took us about 2 hours to go back to Ortigas, Pasig.


Thanks to Kuya Alfred, Ms. Susan and Kuya John for touring us in Angono.

2009 Feb: Sagada, Philippines: Day 3

2009 Feb: Sagada, Philippines: Day 3

On our 3rd day, we find a place were we can sip hot tea or coffee. I can still remember the song from one of the houses there - Michael Buble’s Coming Back Home. That day was our third and last day in Sagada. Yes, we are going back to Manila.

But before that, we still have a Walking Tour. We saw St. Mary’s Episcopal church.

We reached Calvary Hills, Echo Valley and saw Hanging Coffins.


By 12:00nn, we bid goodbye to Sagada and took an ordinary bus going to Baguio. We passed by La Trinidad Benguet, and took off at Victory Liner Terminal by 6pm.


We quickly visit Baguio Cathedral, bought our pasalubongs and had our dinner in Gecko Restaurant.

By 8pm we left Baguio, and by 2am, we’re here again in the busy streets of Manila.

Thanks to Ced, Reg and the rest of the TF’s for your patience. For the record we were the last pair to arrive both on first day going to Bontoc and last day on going back to Manila. Major Pasaway Tandem. Finally, thanks Kim for inviting me on this trip.

Enjoyed and Conquered Sagada!

2009 Feb: Sagada, Philippines: Day 2

2009 Feb: Sagada, Philippines: Day 2

By 5am, we already reached Kiltepan Viewpoint, to wait for the sunrise. It is still too dark, so we had our mini bonfire.


By around 6.30am, we go back to the guest house to take our breakfast and bath. By 8.30am, were ready to depart for our Cave Adventure. There are 2 caves to visit. One option is to choose the Cave Connection Adventure - which is you will start from Lumiang Cave take the difficult path and you’ll go out in the Sumaging Cave. Travelers normally take 5 hours to complete this.

The second option is to just see the Lumiang Cave Entrance - where the coffins are displayed. Then take a jeepney going to Sumaging Cave. This is an easier path and will take only 3 hours. I think we were too slow as it took us almost 4-5 hours just to complete the easy path.

Wear swimsuit inside as you will pass a chest deep water. Though it was just almost 2 meters walk in a very cold water. For non-swimmers no need to be frightened.

There are 3 stages for the easy path - slippery, rocky and I forgot the other one, hehe! The first is slippery because of the mud on the rocks. Next, is still slippery and rocky, but now with lime stones. There is also a part when you need to remove your slippers or shoes.

The guides have their own lamps, but if you have difficulty on seeing in the dark, you better get yourself a headlamp. I got mine around 300php on Toby’s. The more led light much better, also yellow light is better than white light.

The famous rock formations are located in Sumaging Cave, thus I chose the easy path than the difficult one.

What I love on this challenge, I jump into the water holding a rope with no idea on how deep the water is. Plus, there is a short rappelling without any harness on the travelers. Note, you just need to believe in your guides and totally trust them.

It is expected that you’ll be a total mess, too dirty after caving - but don’t worry, there is a store outside the Sumaging Cave where you can wash your hands and feet for just 10-20php. For some, it is advisable to bring wet tissue for quick clean-up.


We took our late lunch and bath back in the guest house. Then we finally bought our pasalubongs and got to see the stores in Sagada. And for those addicted to net, yes, there are internet shops in Sagada for only 25-30php/hour.

We tried banana yoghurt in Yoghurt House. This is the place when me kuya, I asked for a service water in Tagalog. Then he replied in English - I think it is not safe to drink water from the faucet. My friend and I were stunned with how fluent they speak in English. Yes, English is their second language next to their local dialect. Some of them can’t even speak Filipino, but can converse with you in English.

By 5.30 we left town proper to see Sunset in Lake Danum, too bad were late. So instead, we watched sunset above the jeepney. Then we went to Lake Danum for our late dinner , bonfire and social discussion.

Before 10pm we went back to the guest house, just in time for the Sagada curfew.

2009 Feb: Sagada, Philippines: Day 1

2009 Feb: Sagada, Philippines: Day 1

Around 9pm, Friday, we took Cable Tours bus (Cable Tour Terminal, E. Rodriguez Avenue in front of Trinity College and Burger King) and left Manila. Don’t expect much on this bus, some of the seats were broken, air conditioner is not working well, plus the space is too small. It is like a baby bus, which will easily pass the small roads up north.

By 7am, we reached the Mountain Province. We stop for a while and see the site from Banaue Viewing Deck.

After passing the mountains from 3 hours, we reached Bontoc, where we took our brunch. By around 12nn, we finally reached Sagada.

Our group is divided into 2, we stayed in Alabama Inn and the other group stayed in George Guest House. After taking a rest for a while and having our lunch, that was also our chance to take a bath after the very long trip.

Then by around 2pm, we started our trek on Banga-an Rice Terraces. Based on Kuya Elmer (President of the Sagada Guides), the entrance fee we pay goes to the cemented pathways along the terraces.

At the end of the trek, we reached Bomod-ok Big Falls. Here, travelers were allowed to take a bath. Just be careful on the jumping/diving into the water.

By 5.30pm, we find our way back because it is difficult to walk in the terraces when it is dark.

After dinner and bath, we already sleep cause we need to wake-up by 4am the next day.

2009 Feb: Clark, Subic, Philippines: Hot Air Balloon '09

2009 Feb: Clark, Subic, Philippines: Hot Air Balloon '09

Travel Date: Feb 14, 2009
Destination: Clark, Subic
I joined a guided tour that meet up at 4.30am in Makati. We had a quick stop somewhere in NLEX, then continue travelling until we reached Clark at 6.30am. The sun is already up but the balloons are having difficulties in flying, it maybe because of the shapes they selected that year. Aside from watching the flying objects (kite show), there are also an exhibit on the different planes.

By 8am, we had a 2 hour ride going to Subic. We had a very tiring activity at Tree Top Adventure. We tried Canopy Walk and passed by around 9-11 zip lines. There are other facilities like Superman and Free Fall.

Tree Top Adventure SubicJEST Area, Cubi
Point, SBMAhttp://www.treetopadventuresubic.com/index.html

By 4pm, we headed back to Clark for the Night Lighting of the balloons. We also watched fireworks!

Due to the event and the Valentine's Day celebration, there is a total heavy traffic while going back to Manila - we arrived at 12mn in Ayala, Makati.

2009 Feb: Hong Kong: Day 5: Last Day in HK

Saturday, was our last day in Hong Kong. We already check-out at around 9am, left our luggage in the Hostel, then made the final walk in Time Square and Lane Crawford. By 2pm, we return to the hostel to get our things, waited for the Airport Bus just right outside Marco Polo Mansion.

Upon arrival at the Airport, we had a chance to roam around the area, buy few things, take late afternoon snack, send out postcards to friends, check-in baggage and take some rest.

We also had a time to use the free internet service at the airport before going to the actual Departure Gate.

Good thing that at this trip, our Cebu Pacific flight was not delayed.

Thanks to my sister for getting me as her personal tourist guide on her first visit to Macau and HK. This makes my 3rd visit on both countries, all within 18 months.

2009 Feb: Hong Kong: Day 4: Ocean Park and The Peak

Travel Date: February 2009

Were going to Ocean Park!

We took Bus 629 from Admiralty Station Exit B. Entrance is roughly 210 HKD. Most of the areas are under renovation. Still, we got to see the Dolphin Show, Atoll Reef, Panda and Acrobatic Show. Here, I got to scare my sister for the cable car.

Before 3pm, we decided to go back to the city. From the bus terminal in Drake Street, we pass by the Pacific Place, HK Park and finally reached the Tram Station.

Of course we could not miss Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum. You can get the cheapest tram fare and Museum combo fee on the Peak Tram Ticket counter.

We had dinner at the Peak. Remember that Chinese Traditional Shops close at 6pm, so you need to buy your stuff early.
Going back to our hostel, we had to follow a long line of passengers waiting for the Peak Tram.

2009 Feb: Hong Kong: Day 3: Disneyland Day

Travel Date: February 2009

Our Lantau Adventure!

My sister is really afraid on taking cable car rides. Even though I’ve been dreaming on taking the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Ride, she decided to wake up so late for us skip that entry in our itinerary. Instead we just had a quick shop in Citygate mall, this is like a mall of factory outlets where you can buy stuff at a lower price.

Before noon time, we moved to Disneyland Resort. I advise you to visit the website before going there. Always check the show, character meet and greet opportunity and parade schedule - for you not to miss any of the fun offered. For first timers you should not miss Mickey’s Philharmagic Show, this is a 4-d show of Disney and Mickey adventures.

During Summer time, they have 2 parades, normal parade @ 12nn and Summer Wet Parade @ 3pm. During our visit, which is still covered by the Chinese New Year celebration, we got to see the Chinese Parade @ 12nn and normal parade by 3pm.

Since this is my second visit in HK Disneyland, I already skipped Tarzan/Pirate Adventure and Philharmagic. I had a repeat on Lion King Show.
It’s a Small World and Golden Mickey were something new for me. And this time, I finally got to see the Fireworks display!


How to get to Tian Tan Buddha if Ngong Ping 360 is out of service?  Take Bus #23 from Tung Chung station.

2009 Feb: Hong Kong: Day 2: Museum and Snoopy World

Travel Date: February 2009

I think, my sister is a little bit tired during this day, thus we did not follow our set itinerary for the day.

In the morning, we went back to Tsim Sha Tsui area. We were able to see the skyline with the actual buildings and without lights.

We had a chance to enter the Museum of Art for free, since it is a Wednesday. So try to set your itinerary to visit Museums during Wednesday. We were not able to enter Space Museum since it will open still on a later time.

Then, we decided to take the KRC Train to reach Shatin Station. Here we visited the Snoppy’s World which is located on Level 3 of Shatin New Town Plaza Mall. This is the place which will be more appreciated by kids. Even though the mall is too big for the adults to enjoy, the area is just too far from the Metro.

Then, my sister wanted again to visit Mongkok district. I finally convinced her to have dinner in Modern Toilet. (Hopefully, I can try the original Modern Toilet in Taipei.)

After doing some shopping on Mongkok, we still had the energy to roam around Time Square mall.

Hong Kong: Tsim Sha Tsui: Symphony of Lights

Travel Date: February 2009

After we took our breakfast, we had the final arrangement with the Hotel for our check-out. We went to Almeida Rebeiro Avenue, stayed on the San Ma Lo side to get into Bus #3 with “JetFoil” signage. Upon drop-off, you might need to take the underpass to reach the entrance gate.

Go to the second floor, this is the departure area. We choose to take the Turbo Jet (http://www.turbojet.com.hk/eng/home/index.html) since we are staying in HK Island. This is faster by almost 30 minutes compared to First Ferry. But if you are staying in Kowloon area, then it is advisable to take First Ferry which has also a cheaper fare compared to Turbo Jet.

Turbo Jet Terminal in HK Island is connected to the Sheung Wan MTR Station through Mall pathways. From here, you can now buy the Octopus card which will help you travel around the city.

From Sheung Wan Station, we stayed on the Blue Lane to reach Causeway Bay Station.
Months ago, I already settled the reservation fee with Marlboro Hostel via Western Union. Upon check-in we need to pay the remaining fee on our booking. From Causeway Bay, take exit E. Walk through Paterson Street and look for Paterson Building C. The door access code will be given to you via email.

After we have settled our things on the hostel, we took the MTR going to Mongkok. After roaming around the shopping district, we moved to Kowloon. We had our dinner, go to the Esprit Outlet (along Hankow Road) and finally watched the Symphony of Lights.

We had a chance to still walk along the Clock Tower and Avenue of Stars even though it is so windy and cold in the area. By 9pm, we took the MTR going back to Causeway Bay.


2017 June update:
Apart from the red traditional boat floating on the harbor front, there is an additional traditional boat with white flags carrying tourists and locals.

2009 Feb: Macau: Day 3: Visiting Coloane and Taipa

Travel Date: February 2009

Another breakfast at McDo, Senado Square. Find our way to buy some postcards and finally see the Cathedral (as we missed it yesterday). Had a long walk until we reached the terminal station for the bus going to Macau Tower.

Had our lunch at the Tower, and roam around 2 top floors which are open to the public.

2009 Feb: Macau: Day 2: Macau by Day and Night

We normally take our breakfast from McDonalds along Alm. Ribiero and the one in front of Starbucks, Senado Square. We never tried taking our breakfast from local small shops (due to personal choice).

2009 Feb: Macau: Day 1: The Arrival

Few days right after 2009 Chinese New Year is the planned date for our trip to Macau-HK. Thanks to my sisbro for insisting on this trip - which would be her first and my third visit on both places. This time I’ll be her tour guide, and we’re following a DIY trip! Adventure isn’t it!


Currently (1st Quarter 2009), there is only one Cebu Pacific flight from Manila to Macau which is on 7:30-9:30pm. This would be my first flight from NAIA Terminal 3 (after it opened last August 2008).

Our plane will land on Taipa Island in Macau which is just near the sea waters and which is nearby the famous Venetian. On the airport, there is no direct connection from the plane going to the building proper, thus, we need to walk on the runway grounds to reach the building. It’s like the airports here in the provinces which passengers should walk on the runway grounds to reach the building.

Not sure why, but they really have slow services on the Immigration, even if it is in ferry or in the airport - they have same long lines which are slowly moving. After we got our luggage, we exchange a few bucks for HKD money. I think it is better to exchange for HKD, because you can use it in both Macau and HK. But Pataccas can only be used in Macau and is not accepted in HK.


We booked in a hostel which is near San Ma Lo (Senado Square), from the airport you have the option to take a cab (74HKD to San Ma Lo) or take a bus. For buses, this will take a while, there is no bus from Airport going to San Ma Lo directly, you can take a free bus from Airport to Ferry Terminal, then transfer to Bus 3 (other bus number are available) going to San Ma Lo - fee is almost 4.20ish HKD each person and each luggage. We choose to take a cab because we lost almost an hour waiting for a bus.

We have a booking with San Va Hostel (http://www.sanvahotel.com/rooms.html) for only around 1000Php per night. The owner already send a notice that the Hostel is a cheap type of hostel, simple and should not expect of something extravagant from them. I even got to see the negative reviews from the internet - but still decided to go with this one. If you are looking for cheap hotels or budget hostels in Macau, that will be affordable for backpackers, make sure to read reviews in agoda.com or tripadvisor.com.  We were able to find it, but when I saw the room, check on the ceiling - I’m sure there is a better place I could stay in the area. We decided to move out (thanks to the Chinese girl who helped me talking to the Hostel owner) and found Hotel Man Va.