It’s Fun in Caramoan Island

Destinations | 0 comments

I know: it’s already September, and as per the usual Filipino notion, this is not the perfect to go beaching. But hey, we could all go summer lovin’ all year round, right? Got a place in mind to visit? I do! Where else is the fun? It’s in Caramoan.

Found out about the place from a friend, a native from one of the happy islands, who toured me around their place. Since I loved the adventure, might as pay the joy forward. Below are what I’ve learned from the three-day trip I’ve had recently.

Getting there

Waze is my usual companion in my travels, but a real travel buddy was my tour guide in my latest trip. Since she was in Caramoan that time, she was constantly in communication with her to make sure I do not get “wanderlost” in wanderlust! Sharing how I exactly got there, and more!

  1. Manila to Naga City
  • Rode a bus from Pasay to Naga City. Travel time was around 10 hours— I took a night trip since I feel like that’s more convenient since I could sleep when it was dark, and arrive first thing in the morning. I highly recommend you do the same.
  • If you have enough time to book a flight in advance— since that’s less expensive, or if you have ample time to spend, but a bigger budget for your trip, it’s preferable to get to Naga City by air.
  • Eat a heavy meal! Next half of the trip is long, too!
  1. Naga City to Caramoan
  • At the drop off, which is at the terminal (Central Bus Terminal near SM City Naga), I looked for a bus heading to Caramoan. Was lucky to find one that was bound to leave an hour after I arrived so I had enough time to for breakfast. It was good that I ate because travel time to Caramoan took around 4-6 hours.
  • Pack some snacks! If you wouldn’t have enough time by then, bring some biscuits or buy a sandwich— whatever you prefer. Take note, there are just limited stop-over canteens where you can eat at.
  • Trivia: Caramoan was then only accessible via sea travel, but because of the construction of Fuentabella Highway, mainland Caramoan is already reachable by land. I personally preferred this means, since I was reserving my excitement for the nautical voyage for island hopping!

Where to Stay at

Immediately headed to my accommodations; I wanted to unload, because my things were quite heavy for the itinerary for the day 1. There are several options you could stay in Caramoan; below are few of the resorts and hotels available:

  1. Tugawe Cove Resort (Barangay Colongcogon, Colongcogong, Caramoan)
  2. West Peninsula Villas (San Andres, Malabog, Caramoan)
  3. La Casa Roa Hostel (Teoxon Street., Brgy. Tawog, Malabog, Caramoan)
  4. Daniel’s Place (Paniman, Caramoan)
  5. River View Vacation Inn (No. 6 Fernandez Street, Barangay Ili, Malabog, Caramoan)

Where to Go, What to See 

Stayed here for [almost] three days as I timed my travel on a long weekend, but if you’ve got just a shorter period for staying in Caramoan, might as well make the most out of it. I recommend you prioritize visiting these, and you surely would not regret:

  1. Matukad Island and Lagoon
  • Small, but one of the most popular islands in Caramoan! It is enamored with limestone cliffs, three beaches with white sand, and a lagoon; that’s Matukad! The lagoon is a home to giant milkfish, or bangus. As per the locals, these milkfish just magically appeared there.
  1. Pitogo Island
  • The perfect spot for kids! With shallow waters seemingly shy to reveal itself to people, it’s somewhere kids could just walk around and see the break of day.
  1. Lahos Island
  • “Lahos” meaning “to vanish.” From the name itself, this island proves that nothing really stays forever— it disappears during high tide, and says HI, just during daytime. Make sure you visit when it’s low tide, so that you could walk at the shore. Lahos island is located in the middle of two identical rock formations.
  1. Mount Caglago
  • This is a fun 20-minute trek to Our Lady of Holy Rosary, the Queen of Peace. Didn’t count, but my friend said it’s a 500-step journey. Quite tiring, but worth it. The view of Caramoan peninsula from here was amazing!

Simple Trip Tips

Safety and convenience must be on top your priority! Thinking about future possibilities, take note of below to ensure a worthwhile journey.

  1. Plan ahead of time, but watch weather updates often and ASAP.
  2. Bring a first-aid kit. Include medicines and vinegar (this one’s for jellyfish sting).
  3. Wear a life vest when travelling by boat.
  4. Secure and protect your stuff. (I suggest you ziplock you phone!)
  5. Take your trash home (may be your hotel room).
  6. Don’t bring home sand as souvenir.
  7. Don’t forget to bring enough food.

There you go, friends! Hope this helps.

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Sorsogon Whale Shark Watching

Destinations | 0 comments

Ever seen a giant before? You might never believe me, but I have— I really did. They were in the ocean, but I was neither King Tritan or Princess Ariel. I was in the boat when I saw three gentle giants— whale sharks or butanding as we more commonly call them. Wanna see some yourselves? C’mon. Let’s go to Donsol!

Whale Sharks

Before anything else, I think it’s just imperative to give a li’l background about these good guys of the waters!

Whale sharks or Rhincodon typus has a size relative to a bus that it has a size of 18 to 32.8 ft. and weighs 20.6 tons. Its average lifespan is 70 years, although sadly, it’s current population trend is already decreasing. Favorite food of these gentle giants is plankton. With their colossal gaping mouths, they also scoop other tiny plants and animals, plus small fish that are just around. For humongous fellas, their meals are far too “cute.” And that got me to thinking, with all that they eat, are those enough? What if they eat us humans? How scary it is especially that their mouths can get up to five feet long!

“Oh no! Is it even safe to interact with whale sharks?”

That was my initial reaction, too, but I’ve learned that the esophagus of a whale is just inches, and that even if one accidentally swallows anything foreign to their diet, the creature would feed that out immediately, so, YES! It is safe to be around whale sharks. We’re not part of their menu. With that said, I’m pretty much guessing you’re excited to go swimming with them in Donsol.

Donsol: Home of the Gentle Giants

In 1998, Donsol of Sorsogon became a popular spot for tourists upon the discovery of the whale sharks somewhere off coast. I think it’s cause, it is indeed fascinating getting in touch with the world; that includes these sea mammals and the rest of life under the sea.

Now let’s go there, but how?

  1. Legazpi to Donsol – Just ride a van at Legazpi Grand Terminal (in front of SM City Legazpi, near Ibalong Centrum for Recreation)
  2. Manila to Donsol – That seems farther! Well, it is. If you’re from Manila, it’s either you ride a bus that goes directly to Sorsogon City, and be dropped off at Donsol; you may prefer to book a Manila-Legazpi trip, then follow instructions in option A (above) right after.

What to Do when you Reach Donsol

Now that you’re in their kingdom, here’s what you should do:

  1. Go to Donsol Tourism Center.
  2. Fill-out necessary forms.
  3. Pay fees (inclusive of boat and gear rental).
  4. Attend a mini orientation.
  5. Watch a video presentation about proper whale shark interaction.

Swimming with Butanding

To be in-touch with the world, the marine world specifically, is something a lot dream about. Might’ve started with kids’ childhood fantasy when they first watched The Little Mermaid. Whale sharks aren’t any character in that Disney movie, but I think to be with them has been part of the bucket list of most of us as we grow up. Good thing we have them in the Philippines.

A lot of these friendly water-loving creatures are in Donsol, Sorsogon. Unlike in other locations in the country, tourists are allowed to swim with these gentle giants in Sorsogon— of course guided as to what the ethical approach in how it is when dealing with them. Also, what’s good about this is it is supported by World Wide Fund for Nature (WWFN).

This is the most exciting adventure I’ve had so far. You would definitely love it, too, so c’mon! Let’s take a dive into an ocean of thrill and happiness!

Interaction with these whale sharks is purely a snorkeling activity; tourists are not allowed to go scuba diving. Butanding Interaction Officers (BIO) will assist you there. They only allow just at max three from the boat into the water, and I consider that a good thing. As per these folks, it’s necessary that it would not be too crowded down there. This protocol is also to ensure everybody maximizes the moment, and that everyone is safe.

Not a swimmer? It’s okay. There would be floaters or buoys that would be provided you, and you could just stay at the surface while waiting for a whale shark to swim by. Then just completely submerge into the water once the safety officers spot some of ‘em.

Now that you know all these, check your calendar, and mark a date sometime within November to June; that’s when there are more sightings of Butanding in Sorsogon.

Hope to see you there!

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A Pilgrim Tour around Bicol Churches

Destinations | 0 comments

Faith and fascination— those are the two biggest factors that lead me to going treasures we call churches! Each time I visit a new vicinity, I make sure I look for a church or chapel, and stopover or stay even just for a couple of minutes if time does not permit me to attend mass.

Through this blog, I hope to influence you with one of my hobbies— church hopping! I’ve included one church per region. Do enjoy reading!

Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Peñafrancia (Camarines Sur)

Naga City is known to be the Pilgrim City of the Bicol region. It’s actually one of the largest Marian sites of devotion in the entire Asia. Amazing, right? Yearly, thousands of devotees and pilgrims flock the city to join in celebrating the festival of our most loved Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia. This image of the Virgin Mary is housed in Basilica Minore.

The church took years in the making: 1960 was for conceptualization made by the late Archbishop Pedro Paulo Santos y Songco; 1976, start of construction; 1981, completion; 1985, concession as Basilica Minores (from Church of Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia) by a decree from Sacred Congregation of Worship. Its history is as vibrant as its stained glass images and, rich as oil paintings that tell stories of faith.

Parroquia Nuestra Señora dela Porteria (Albay)

The name translates to Our Lady of the Gate Parish in English. You might be wondering why it is called such— “gate.” The name traces its roots from a Franciscan lay brother who was saved by the image of the Holy Mother, which he eventually placed at the lobby of the convent he worked at. Reception of the convent is called a “Spanish porteria,” and the friars has adopted the name as the for this holy home in Daraga, Albay.

The church is located on top of Sta. Maria hill, which makes it quite a challenge reaching especially for tourists who are first-time goers. However, I personally think every climb is worth it. After a few minutes of walk, you’d feel unequalled joy with the beautiful view you would see.

St. John the Baptist Church (Catanduanes)

Common to the locals as Bato Church, St. John the Baptist Church, is the oldest church in the province. It’s one of those that has been built upon introduction of Catholicism by the Spaniards to the natives. That dates back latter part of the 16th century! Made with coral and mortar, it stands strong till present. It was really built to last— to withstand storms, earthquakes and other natural calamities.

Do visit this church and be in touch with the heritage, not just of Catanduanes, but the Philippines, too!

Barcelona Church of Sorsogon

Wow! Sounds like it’s somewhere in España, right? But this one’s in the Bicol region. Cool enough learning about, the place and the church really did get their names from Barcelona, Spain. Friars then longed for their original home, and then seeing similarity of the place to theirs, named it after that.

Barcelona Church, or St. Joseph Parish, is a haven of rich history. Having been built in 1874, it is also one of the oldest and most well-preserved churches in the Bicol region. It has undergone several restorations, but at present still has the bell tower and original walls intact.

Masbate Cathedral

This church has a very interesting history as it’s been placed under the patronage of the Archdiocese of España; and became of part of the Diocese of Manila, of Nueva Caceres, and of Sorsogon, until finally, Masbate became an independent province on March 23, 1968; Parish of Saint Anthony of Padua then became the cathedral.

Fall in love with Masbate Cathedral along Quezon Street in Masbate City! It had undergone major repair including expansions, but you’d still be walking on the original center floor and be looking up to see the vestiges on the ceiling if you go there.

Parroquia de San Pedro Apostol (Camarines Norte)

Four hundred seven (407) years— wow! Just wow! Established in 1611, Parroquia de San Pedro Apostol, or St. Peter the Apostle Church is the oldest church in the province. With such significant role in the history CamNorte, it was given the “Provincial Cultural Treasure Award” in 1997.

Make sure you don’t miss dropping by and lighting a candle the next time you visit. It’s just at Vinzons, Camarines Norte. You’d easily spot it at the town’s poblacion as a “Porta Petri” was built in front of the parish last 2011.

Those are just six of the churches I know. There are definitely more to go to. Make sure you have them as part of your trips!

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The Ultimate Wakeboarding Experience in CWC

Destinations | 0 comments

Do you love adventure? If the answer to that is a YES, then join me in my next trip to Camsur Watersports Complex in Camarines Sur! Read on to learn all you need to know about the world’s best wakepark!

About CWC

Camsur Watersports Complex made Camarines Sur the wakeboarding capital of the country. In 2009, it hosted Ultimate Wakeboard Championships, and from then on, has been inviting both local and foreign tourists to the province. Spectators are welcome, too, as there isn’t any entrance fee if you just want to roam around the area. There is a bar and restaurants plus other exciting amenities in the area, too, like pool, spa and skate park. Decide to stay the night, and be delighted to know there are accommodations where you could stay at. Trivia: the cabins are really cozy!

How to Get There?

No waze, no worries. From CBD Terminal in Naga City, just ride a bus preferably to Albay, and pull-over in Pili. To be sure, you can tell the driver that you’ll be going to CWC upon riding the bus. They’d drop you off at 7-Eleven. From there, just take a 5 to 10-minute ride via motorcycle (commonly known as habal-habal) going to CWC at Provincial Capitol Complex, Cadlan, Pili, Camarines Sur.

What is Wakeboarding?

Did a little reading before I tried this out! Says wakeboarding might have been out of the surfer’s frustration when there weren’t waves. There had to be this challenging sports even when the sea is calm. What serendipity it was then! It was originally skurfing, a mix of skiing and surfing wherein the adventure enthusiast was being pulled by a boat. It later evolved from boat boards to park boards— what are used in CWC!

Beginners

So what if you’re just new to this. Everybody starts somewhere. As for me, during my first time, I stayed at the beginner’s area. It was really hard at first, but there were instructors who guided me till I was able to stand on the board. Honestly, I fell several times, but after countless tries, I was finally able to cross to the other end. It was really fun, especially that I met new friends; we stumbled together, but eventually learned together as well.

Oh yes! After several minutes to an hour, I felt like I was ready to rock it on the big lake! I kind’a thought like I was a pro prior to trying it at the experts’ area, but when I was finally there, my knees shook a bit. Funny enough, I wanted to back out. Luckily, my new friends helped me gain enough confidence and I gave it a go.

Felt like I dwindled to my not-so-sporty self so I started with the basic, kneeboarding. It didn’t require a lot of balance so I was able to make a single round without falling. It was quite tough though, ‘cause it required a lot of upper body strength. It stretched my biceps and triceps a whole lot, too. I relaxed a bit and watched the others before I tried out the most challenging part.

Woah! It was finally it— wakeboarding. As expected, I did not turn out victorious the first few rounds. It required lesser effort, but tons of balance. Again, as I had anticipated to happen, I fell off over and over. Had to walk some distance as I was far from the take-off area. It was hot and I perspired a lot, but at least, I released sweat and not tears. Didn’t cry, since was a really fun experience.

Of course I didn’t leave a sore loser. Okay, I wasn’t able to complete an entire loop while standing all the way, but having gone halfway already seemed like a miracle! I never thought I would be able to do that, but kuya who was operating the main cable was really enthusiastic enough to give me and the others some tips! 

The Aftermath

My gosh! My biceps and triceps ached for about a week. But honestly, I regret nothing. More than muscle pain, I’ve gained a lot of happy memories and new friends. You wouldn’t guess, but I’ve learned that I’d fall a couple times, but that isn’t any reason for me to give up. Life is an adventure; all I have to do is enjoy it. You, too!

I would definitely be coming back. Join me on my next?

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Top 10 Beaches in Bicol

Destinations | 0 comments

The Christmas season has officially begun. So what? Oh what fun it still is to stay under the roasty sun! Summer hasn’t ended yet; I think it wouldn’t even really end! And ‘cause of that, let’s hit the beaches in one of the top destinations of the Philippines— the Bicol region!

Bicol (Region V) rests in the southern part of Luzon. It is composed of six provinces; four of which lies in the mainland: Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, and Sorosogon. The two other, Masbate and Catanduanes, are offshore. While the region has captivated tourists because of majestic Mayon, Camsur Watersports Complex, and whale sharks (butanding), Bicol has continued the inviting to travelers because of the lovely beaches it has. I’ve included my #TopTen below:

Subic Beach (Matnog, Sorsogon)

The island is a mini Boracay in the making! An hour boat ride away from the city, you are sure to marvel at the lovely view on the way to this virgin paradise. Yep! You heard it right! Western style resorts wouldn’t welcome you here, but think the best part with nature. You to appreciate nature more: fine pinkish white sand, clear waters, clean refreshing air to breathe!

Gota Beach (Caramoan, Camarines Sur)

If you’re going on island-hopping in Caramoan, you must include this in your itinerary! Interesting to know, the 26th season of the American reality show Survivor was filmed here. The place is still not as commercialized as compared to other beaches in the region, but you can enjoy a lot of fun adventures here like snorkeling, boating and rock climbing.

Palani White Beach (Masbate)

Looking for a cool, relaxing place to spend your mini “summer” vacation at? Here’s one I’d recommend. Palani White Beach is quite serene. The sand is not rocky— ideal for walking barefoot. The water is usually shallow, and there aren’t much waves here either.

Bagasbas Beach (Daet, Camarines Norte)

Neither blue waters nor white sand like what tourists find ideal, but with its boardwalk, this beach is perfect for a morning stroll! It prides itself with big waves, and are therefore best choices for surfers. If you’re not adventure-loving, you can also food tripping are many restos and around the area! Finally, cap the day with peaceful view of sunset!

Rizal Beach (Sorsogon)

This is beach of Sorsoganons. Its fine beige sand and the clear waters are together splendid view on seemingly average day. Rizal Beach is commonly flocked by locals, but has now become the surfers’ destination. Don’t worry if you’re still a beginner. The waves here are both for newbies and pros.

Rawis Black Beach (Legazpi, Albay)

Now here’s something you don’t spot often— rare black sand! Now don’t expect much as there aren’t cafes or restos at the exact vicinity. But hey! You can cavort under the sun worry free! No entrance fee, no rents. Just a beautiful sight and sweet serenity!

Daruanak Island (Pasacao, Camarines Sur)

A 10-15-minute ride away from Pasacao Beach, this is definitely a go-to place! What’s in it for you? Well, there are clear waters and some rocky hills to climb so it’s a spice of peace and adventure. Marine life is also amazing here, so you better pack up some goggles! Just beware of jellyfish.

Tolong-Gapo Beach (Bacon, Sorsogon)

“Tolong Gapo” translates to three stones in English. Fascinating to know, during low tide, three big stones enamors the panoramic sea view. This one’s a perfect destination for families who want to go on picnics and excursions! With cottages available around, you can get a cozy spot if you prefer to relax on a lazy afternoon. Water is shallow enough to have kids play around the beach and enjoy.

Dancalan Beach (Bulusan, Sorsogon)

Wanna see whale sharks? If it’s a yes, going boat-riding at Dancalan Beach is the adventure you shouldn’t miss. Marvel seeing butanding (local term) early morning when there are more surfacing, as compared to that in the afternoon when it’s typically hotter. After this escapade, you may choose to rest at the long shore of Bulusan. The beach is operated by the local government, so it is well-maintained.

Paguriran Island (Sorsogon)

Wanna lie in a hammock while enjoying a spectacular view? Imagine a clear turquoise lagoon with Mayon in the background! There are also rock formations and a cliff diving area for adventure enthusiasts. Plus the cool breeze and fine sand, this is definitely a haven to visit!

Amazing right? These are just a few. I personally couldn’t wait for my next long weekend, so I could discover and enjoy more fascinating destinations in Bicol!

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I know: it’s already September, and as per the usual Filipino notion, this is not the perfect to go beaching. But hey, we could all go summer lovin’ all year round, right? Got a place in mind to visit? I do! Where else is the fun? It’s in Caramoan. Found out about the...

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Ever seen a giant before? You might never believe me, but I have— I really did. They were in the ocean, but I was neither King Tritan or Princess Ariel. I was in the boat when I saw three gentle giants— whale sharks or butanding as we more commonly call them. Wanna...

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Faith and fascination— those are the two biggest factors that lead me to going treasures we call churches! Each time I visit a new vicinity, I make sure I look for a church or chapel, and stopover or stay even just for a couple of minutes if time does not permit me to...

read more

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Top 10 Beaches in Bicol

The Christmas season has officially begun. So what? Oh what fun it still is to stay under the roasty sun! Summer hasn’t ended yet; I think it wouldn’t even really end! And ‘cause of that, let’s hit the beaches in one of the top destinations of the Philippines— the...

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