Caramoan of Camarines Sur in the Bicol Region is now becoming famous for two reasons. First, it is blessed with islands with pristine white sand, caves, lagoons, islets, and limestone karts formations. Second, it has been the site of the global reality game show Survivor by several countries, including the USA in 2012.
the awesome limestone cliffs in Sabitang Laya
I stepped out of bed early to savor the cool breeze and the fresh morning scent of Caramoan. There was no sunshine photo because the sky was gloomy. A bit dismayed, I took a quiet walk on the peaceful road, amused to see early riser locals and pleased to smell the sweet wafting fragrance of flowers. Oh I just can’t sustain my excitement and happiness looking at the pleasing sights.
Good morning lovely Caramoan!
the long stretch of creamy white sand of Sabitang Laya
Part of our Caramoan tour with my former office mates is to visit Albay’s primary tourist attractions with Cagsawa Ruins topping the list. This sojourn is for Sir Alex and Alma who will capture memories as they will set foot in my beloved hometown for the first time. I was a tour guide on this exciting getaway.
seize the moment
Potipot Island is a small 8-hectare island located near the shore of Barangay Uacon in Candelaria, Zambales. What attracts travelers here are its calm clear water, soft creamy sand, solitude, the sunset, and proximity from the mainland.
The Enchanted Kingdom or EK is the last place to visit in my little girl’s field trip this year. I volunteered myself a chaperon for I was excited to enter again the magical world of EK to see their newest attractions EKstreme Drop Tower and Disc-o-Magic. High school level had their field trip here yesterday and my teenage son Pao told us he enjoyed riding in these two heart-stopping rides.
the new EKstreme Drop Tower
Fort Santiago or Moog ng Santiago (Fuerza de Santiago in Spanish) is the most important historical site in Manila which served as a defense fortress during Spanish Colonial Period and World War II. This is part of Intramuros (within the walls) which was referred to as the walled city of Manila.
entrance to the fort
My hubby and I enjoyed so much in our one-day Guimaras tour, with Flor, Vic, and Mat-mat. The minute the boat moved swiftly away from the island, I can’t help to look back and be thankful that we explored another beautiful place.
I can’t wait to explore more of Iloilo. My excitement on my second day in the city was still soaring high. While walking away from the wharf along Ortiz Street, Flor halted her steps when we were in front of a well-preserved and beautiful mansion. She told us it was owned by the Ledesma’s. The structure’s design and color were compelling. The white eagles on every post looked like guards protecting the entire house. There were other mansions in the province owned by the Lopezes, Jalandonis, Coseteng, and Montinolas. It’s good that we unexpectedly saw one.
the Ledesma Mansion – one of the popular mansions in Iloilo
In going to Guimaras, what is commonly asked for a pasalubong is their sweet mangoes which are being exported worldwide. I’ve discovered that this island has something more to offer. Their stunning beaches, caves, yummy fresh sea-foods, and verdant landscape made me say, “this is a holiday!”
sweet mangoes of Guimaras
You’ll be surprised not seeing anymore the signage Boracay de Cavite Beach Resort because it is now Katungkulan Beach Resort. It is located in General Lim Marine Base in Calumpang, Sapang 1, Ternate, Cavite. A three-hour drive from Manila passing Cavitex (Cavite Express).
the signage
I was told by my former office mate Art Decena, a fellow Bicolano about their wonderful adventure in Vera Falls in my hometown in Malinao, Albay. They traversed across terrains, hills, forest trails in three hours coming from the main highway. They clung through vines and stepped into the slippery walkways getting down the main falls. He described Vera Falls as a “hidden paradise”, a sanctuary of nature’s finest gift. From then on, I’ve been dreaming of getting there, to experience that amazing trek, and see how stunning the waterfalls really are.
Beautiful and serene view of Vera Falls
