From the boundless hills, green valleys, jugged cliffs, lighthouse, century-old stones houses, Sabtang Island serves up half-day tour of breathtaking scenery, heart-warming road adventure, and surreal feeling of getting back to the glorious olden times.
the stunning green and verdant terrain of Chamantad-Tinan View Point
We were in high spirits as we started exploring the North Batan, the prelude in our Batanes tour. Prior to this trip, I just could not contain the excitement that I had several sleepless nights imagining our close encounter with the rolling hills, the well-manicured grasses, the vast expansive view of the sea, and the lighthouses. I prayed that our three-day stay in the island province will promise a very memorable escapade considering our month of visit is January, a month where rain frequents Batanes.
As I turned 46, we diverted the usual family beach getaway by being a kid again at Gingerbread House in Alfonso, Cavite. But my brother wanted to swim and so I recommended Masasa Beach in Tingloy Island, Batangas. Just last summer of this year, there has been much bustle about this beach and I was curious to find out for myself what this raving is all about.
the unique and beautiful Tawil Rock Formation as we passed by during our island hopping
The location of Gingerbread House in Alfonso, Cavite was conceptualized on the story of the siblings Hansel and Gretel who got lost in the woods and later discovered the large cottage made of gingerbread, cakes, and candy owned by a cannibalistic witch.
it was a huge, colorful and beautiful Gingerbread House
This is my 6th visit to Baguio City. I was tasked by my brother-in-law who is now based in California for some important errand in his hometown. I was so excited for I will be trekking Mt. Ulap with Mang Daniel, my contact trail guide after this is done. Unfortunately, during the night of my trip, he informed me that Mt. Ulap is closed due to approaching typhoon. It was just fine because when I arrived at the bus terminal by 5:00 am, there was a downpour and it was so cold, not perfect for my first solo female hike.
Her name is Star, a gentle and tame St. Bernard dog
Manacota Cave and Underground River is located in Barangay Marag in the town of Luna, another teaser for the real jewels of Apayao. This is the final leg and the third exciting activity in our Apayao road trip. We set all again towards another fun-filled adventure which will bring us to the river crossing, cave sight-seeing, and rewarding water fun to a clean and clear river.
the stunning opening of Manacota Cave where sunlight was streaming into the blue-green river
“During the crucial times in our lives, we are forced not to rely on others to overcome our struggles and fears. This is where we must seek the strength of our inner power. You just need to believe it.”
Our rock climbing in Dupag Rock Formation is one of the most exhilarating experiences I did as a casual trekker and a middle-aged mom. The challenges I did in Masungi Georeserve in Tanay and previous hikes lessened my fear of heights and eventually, I gained more strength and courage to do any kind of activities now. To which I owe it all to God.
the happy Mama upon reaching the pinnacle of our trek
It is summer, time to beat the summer heat! But instead of going to the beach, Lhen Pelenio, my favorite trek buddy, and yours truly are up for another exciting adventure. We will go spelunking in Lussok Cave, rock climbing in Dupag Rock Formation, and sightseeing in Manacota and Underground Cave. All this is through the organizer Mayee Cavas which Lhen found on Facebook. Again, we are joiners and we will be mingling with another set of friends.
Let’s start our Apayao adventure!
the enchanting entrance of Lussok Cave
For this Lenten season, we skipped the out-of-town getaway for we opted to stay indoors. But we are a family who loves to swim, so we can’t stop ourselves from escaping the scorching heat of summer. We were given a complimentary ticket to the Water Park of Antel Grand Village Clubhouse by my brother who purchased property there. So on Black Saturday, we went there to enjoy a whole day water fun.
the Beach Pool has its island tropical feel
Bearing its name as “City of Smiles,” Bacolod City, the capital of Negros Occidental is one of the nicest places to visit in the province of Negros. The notable Masskara Festival which is held during the third week of October draws an influx of tourists to witness its colorful and lively festival. But aside from that, the city is also known for its original “chicken inasal” and the sweet delicacy piaya.
Never leave Bacolod City without visiting The Ruins, the most photographed spot in the city
