How to go to Kalanggaman Island from Cebu

I have been eyeing to go to Kalanggaman Island for the past four years.

Most blogs suggest a route via Palompon, Leyte as your jumpoff point.  It takes 2-3days doing this route.  It is the same route suggested by the tourism office at Palompon when I gave them a call.

http://faq.ph/how-to-go-to-kalanggaman-island-palompon-leyte/

A few weeks ago, I heard that it is actually possible do a day trip from Cebu City to Kalanggaman Island by hiring a pumpboat from Hagnaya Port of Bogo, Cebu directly to Kalanggaman Island.  Kalanggaman Island is located between Cebu and (nearer) Leyte.  This information prompted me to schedule our trip this Chinese New Year long weekend since the next long weekend would be months away.

Kalanggaman Island is an island off Palompon, Leyte that has a sandbar like a shape of a bird. (Langgam is a Visayan word for bird).  There is no accomodation and fresh water in the island.  People bring tents to camp overnight.  There is a makeshift comfort room.  A few cottages for rent and a designated area to grill your food.

Since my peer isn't adventurous enough to rough it in sans fresh water and clean rest rooms, we opted to spend the night at Malapascua.

When I phoned Malapascua Legends, all rooms were taken except for its Budget Inn (airconditioned rooms but shared bathrooms) for 1,800 per night for two.  

We grabbed the last few slots.  I was referred by the receptionist to their co-worker, Mark, to arrange for the pumpboat.

After some negotiations, Mark and I agreed to P5,000 on pumpboat rental from Maya Port, Daanbantayan to Kalanggaman Island the Malapascua.  And an additional P1,000 for Malapascua to Maya Port, Daanbantayan the next day.  We were a group of 8 adults and 3 kids. He also offers 1,200 pesos per head including pumpboat rental, buffet lunch, snorkeling set and entrance fee to Kalanggaman Island.  Our itinerary went like this:

Day 1

430am assembly

5am left Cebu City center to northern most of Cebu: Daanbantayan.  Waze was particularly helpful in giving directions.

8am arrived New Port, Maya Daanbantayan. (do note that there are two ports in Maya, Daanbantayan which the boatman will alternately use depending on the tides and current. If you went on the wrong port, you may hire a motorbike for 20 pesos to take you to the other port)

830am we left the port for Kalanggaman Island

10am we arrived Kalanggaman Island, earlier than expected.  Mark heeded my request to a faster pumpboat that took an hour and half (instead of 2hours) on calm waters. (It can get rough most of the time)

10am-2pm lunch on the boat since all cottages were taken.  Enough time to swim and lounge on the sand bar.

2pm we paid for entrance fee of P150 pesos per adult.  We left Kalanggaman Island for Malapascua Island

(The white sands of Kalanggaman Island is not that fine because of the corals; look closer)

330pm we arrived in Malapascua Island after getting soaked in the splashes from rough seas.  We spent the night in Budget Inn (by Malapascua Legends).

Day 2

AM - at liesure, explored the island.

145pm left Malapascua on private pumpboat to New Port, Maya, Daanbantayan.

230pm arrived New Port, Maya, Daanbantayan and headed back to Cebu City

7pm arrived in Cebu City center.

For a day trip, you may opt to return to Maya Port, Daanbantayan immediately instead of going to Malapascua.

For more information on trips coming from Bogo, you may check this out. http://adrenalineromance.com/2015/10/10/kalanggaman-island-a-favorite-island-of-the-gods/

Contact information:

Mark, boat organizer: +63916 336 6259

Dondon, boatman of John Leroy: +63 936 824 5006

Package Boat Rate:

P1,200 per head inclusive of lunch buffet,  entrance fees, snorkling set (Maya Port to Kalanggaman Island to Malapascua Island)

P120 per head from Malapascua to Maya port

Boat only rate (10-15pax comfortably):

P6,000 per boat (we've negotiated the same price to include Kalanggaman to Malapascua Island on Day 1 then Malapascua Island to Maya Port on Day 2)

Canyoneering from Alegria to Kawasan Falls, Badian

Canyoning (known as canyoneering in the U.S.) is traveling in canyons using a variety of techniques that may include other outdoor activities such as walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling (rappelling), and swimming. 

Cebuanos have always took pride how pretty Kawasan Falls is.  Unknown to many, there was an undiscovered river canyon that led to it that runs from Alegria to Badian.   According to our guide, some two years ago, a foreign tourist discovered this eco-tourism spot and introduced the canyoneering activity.   For the past year, it has gained much attention on social media, it has been flocked by more and more local and foreign tourists.  Hold on to your seats and watch the teaser of our adventure down the river canyon of Kanla-ob, Alegria to Matutinao, Badian, Cebu.

Does this video make you giddy and envious?

The Peaks of Osmeña Peak

Instead of hitting the beach, I'm climbing mountains.  This was suppose to be a practice climb for Mt Pulag. Since our schedules did not permit, it turned out to be a post Mt Pulag Climb.

It is always a challenge to pool a big group.  With short notice, we were surprised to pool a group of fifteen on a holiday that falls on a weekday.

Osmeña Peak is the highest peak in Cebu standing at 1,013 meters above sea level (MASL). It's 100km from the city center, about three hours drive including light traffic.

Cebu Food Trip Reviews: Larsian

Larsian has become an icon in Cebu for authentic local experience and turned into a popular tourist destination for the brave. When we were kids, our parents discourage us to eat at this place but its smell and taste just keeps us wanting for more. Sanitation and food handling has always been an issue for this iconic foodstreet.

I was curious to see that the place is renovated this time by Pepsi. From dirt roads, it's now surrounded with concrete walls, brick flooring, galvanized roofing, monoblock tables and chairs yet maintained that rugged feel. After all these years, someone has finally gave it a functional facelift, grilling is moved to the center of the square as opposed to grilling on each kiosk - smoke is definitely isolated now and viola, there's running water!

I no longer found my suki "mom's" but our companion led us to "Noli and Khit's BBQ". There were about 8 of us and ordered 50 pork BBQ sticks plus 30 pork belly sticks plus a handful of puso and liters of softdrinks. We all left past midnight with happy belly for just P75.

Ratings:
Food: 4 spoons
Ambience: 4 spoons
Sanitation: 2 spoons

Cebu Food Trip Reviews: Chosun Chicken

I bumped into a magazine enlisting the top 10 chicken in Cebu. Chosun Chicken landed on the first spot and I was just as clueless as my peers where this place is.

Chicken Charlie and Bonchon Chicken has recently invaded Cebu. Not until I've tried all these three, I was able to appreciate the Korean twice fried chicken of Chosun Chicken.

Over the long weekend, I was able to revisit the place in (Foodland) Banilad, right beside the flyover.

Upon your entry, you'd be distracted by how its interior is set up. Go see for yourself.

With no further ado, three of us finished one whole chicken cut into 16-18 pcs. Half spicy - half original for P550, paired with Kimchi Rice over some meaningful conversation.

Ah, I miss this bonding time with my BFFs, wish we can do it more often, but times can't make it possible.

Rating:
Food: 5 spoons
Service: 4 spoons
Location/ambiance: 2 spoons

Cebu Food Trip Reviews: Luy's Tea House

Luy's Tea House made its way on the social networking sites with common friends raving about it.

Today is Sunday and I dragged the rest of my family. We are a sucker of all things new and we have an equal share of good and bad experiences.

Our experience in Luy's Tea House was a mixed one. The dimsum was good but not superb contrary to what others rave about. I particularly liked the chicken feet. The siomai was juat an ordinary siomai. I was looking forward to try the xiaolongbao, it tasted good but the wrapper was rather on the thick side. Price was affordable.

Other than dimsum, we ordered a few other dishes and it took an hour to be served. After following it up not just once but ten times (no exaggeration), it turned out our order was taken but not punched for the kitchen to prepare. It was totally disappointing, it just proved that the numerous times I followed up my order, they didn't do it. In general, the staff were inexperienced and lacked training. Price for non dimsum dishes was pricey for its quality and size.

We left the place disappointed and left their business card on the table. You might just want to google more to get their contact number.

Rating:
Food: 3 spoons
Service: 1 spoon

What's New? Food Trip in Cebu

Out with the old, in with the new.  I'm happy to discover new places in Cebu!

Cebu's Original Lechon Belly

If you've not heard or tasted Cebu's latest craze, where have you been?  Cebu's Original Lechon Belly is such a hit.  It the usual tasty Cebu lechon, now boneless and served prime cut, that is, it's all belly with a choice of original or spicy. :)

They have opened a branch at Parkmall and I just kept coming back.  The al fresco dining set-up gives one the mood of eating to your heart's desire with your bare hands. (okay, they provide disposable gloves), paired with good quality hanging rice locally called as "puso", burp!

CEBU'S ORIGINAL LECHON BELLY
Main Office
Gochan Compound
Mabolo, Cebu City
Contact number:
Phone: (63)(32)232-1155
Fax. (63)(32) 232-1155
E-mail: marlon@cebuslechonbelly.com
http://www.cebuslechonbelly.com

Ralfe's Gourmet Chocolate Boutique

If you're a dark chocolate lover like me, this is definitely a treat.  I found this post on facebook as recommended by a friend.  Who would not fall for an all dark chocolate buffet for only P195?

These chocolates are made locally in Cebu by Mrs Raquel (photo above).  My personal favorite were the tablea ganache truffles and tablea rice crispies.  The chocolates are quite filling compared to commercial chocolates since these are made of good quality cocoa with Although the ad says it's a snack buffet, we had them for dinner, and for 70 pesos more, we had eat all you can pizza and pasta as well.  The thin crust pizza was extraordinarily good, impressively baked by a 15 year old son of the owner.  As of press time, the snack buffet I attended to was their last.  They will be coming up with a different chocolate appreciation night soon.  Follow them in facebook.

Located at 3349 Topaz St., Casal's Village, Mabolo, Cebu City, they can be reached by 09176287661 or ralfegourmet@yahoo.com  They serve food strictly by appointment.

Traffic Advisory for Ironman 70.3 Cebu, Philippines Triathlon Race

traffic advisory

Ironman 70.3 Philippines will be hosted by Cebu this August 5, 2012.  The race route is quite extensive covering from the tip of Mactan Island, crossing the Marcelo Fernan Bridge, to Mandaue City via CICC and Parkmall leading to SRP and back.

Traffic Advisory on this date will be:

1. The race route will be closed starting at 5 in the morning.
2. Right lane of the Marcelo Fernan (new) Bridge will be open to two way traffic while the old bridge will be closed from 5am to 12nn.
3. The run route (in dark blue) from Shangrila Mactan upto the tip of Punta Engano will be closed from 5 am to 330pm.  Once the route is close, Shangri-la is only accessible through Portofino.
4. The bike route (in green) from Shangrila Mactan through Marcelo Fernan Bridge to Mandaue Highway, to Ouano Avenue passing through CICC and Parkmall leading to SRP will be closed from 5am to 12nn.
5.  Alternate route to and from the airport is specified above in light blue.

If you're not keen on taking chances of getting stuck with traffic around Mactan, next best spot to watch the race should be where the bikes are expected to slow down and pass twice is at the CICC turnaround point (at the intersection of CICC and Parkmall along Ouano Avenue).  Strong swimmers are expected to start their bike by 7am and end up in this junction fifteen to thirty minutes later.

bike turnaround route at CICC

If  you wish to witness the swim and run route, it's best to drive to Mactan at 4am, just before the roads are closed and expect to get stuck there the rest of the day.  I got this advisory from the organizers for those who wish to witness the event at Shangrila Mactan Resort:

UPDATES AS OF JULY 30, 2012

ONSITE IRONMAN and IRONKIDS REGISTRATION

Date	Venue	Time
Thursday, August 2	The Marquee	2:00pm – 5:30pm
Friday, August 3	The Marquee	9:00am – 12:00nn / 2:00pm – 5:30pm
Saturday, August 4	The Marquee	9:00am – 3:30pm

RESORT ACCESS PASS DISTRIBUTION

All registered Ironman and Ironkids athletes will be issued one (1) set of complimentary companion wristband.

All wristbands are color coded daily and are valid only on the day specified.

Ironman Wristband Set

Date	Wristband Color
Friday, August 3	Orange
Saturday, August 4	Green
Sunday, August 5	Red

Ironkids Wristband Set

Date	Wristband Color
Friday, August 3	Orange
Saturday, August 4	Green
Sunday, August 5	Red

*Please ensure your companion wears the proper color wristband per day.

WRISTBAND SELLING

As your and our guest safety and security is our primary concern, we are limiting the number of non in–house quest who may access the resort during this period. We are implementing a number of security measures which include the limited sale and issuance of wristbands (color–coded per day).

Who can buy the wristband?

• Registered Ironman and Ironkids athletes who want to bring in more than one companion to the resort.
• Non in–house Ironman and Ironkids participants.
• To allow equal opportunity for all, a maximum of two (2) wristbands may be sold per person until August 4, 20:00nn. Remaining wristbands after this time may already be sold to anyone, without limitation on quantity.

What benefits do we enjoy with the purchase of a wristband?

• Access to all Ironman-related venues within the resort.
• Savings of 35% on regular treatments at CHI, The Spa at Shangri–La.
• Savings of 15% in Tides and Tea of Spring restaurants (valid August 2–4 only)

Where can we buy?

Date	Venue	Time
Thursday, August 2 Friday, August 3 Saturday, August 4	Counter outside of The Marquee	8:00am – 8:00pm
Friday, August 3	Ironman Carbo–loading dinner at the CICC (Cebu International Convention Center)	9:00am – 12:00nn / 2:00pm – 5:30pm
Sunday, August 5	Ocean Pavilion	4:00am – 12:00nn

How much?

Access Date	Wristband Color	Cost per Wristband(nett)
Thursday, August 2	Red	Php 500.00
Friday, August 3	Red	Php 500.00
Saturday, August 4	Red	Php 500.00
Sunday, August 5	Red	Php 1,000.00

• Children 11 years old and below will enjoy 50% savings.
• Only cash payments will be accepted.
• All wristbands are color coded daily and we are valid only on the day specified.
• A limited number of wristbands will be sold daily on a first come, first served basis.

Other Reminders:

• Parking of vehicles inside the Resort will not be allowed from August 2–5 as parking areas will be utilized for the bicycle and run transition. The Resort and Ironman organizers have identified temporary parking areas nearby for this period.
• Only car drop-offs will be allowed from August 2–4 while strictly "no vehicle access" policy will be implemented on Sunday, August 5.
• The Resort main entrance will be accessible by foot for athletes and guests with proper wristbands on Sunday, August 5 until 5:00am only. Once the roads are closed, access to the Resort will be through Portofino.

For any queries, please call (6332)231-8159 or email specialevents.mac@shangri-la.com

Thank you.

Best regards,

Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines

For more information, check out:
http://www.ironman703phil.com/cebu/

South of Cebu Dive Log: Whaleshark Interaction in Oslob

If you are one of the many following Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited, you should know about Finding Fifi.  Fifi is an remote controlled nemo that has been missing from big brother's house.   While everyone else is curious about Finding Fifi, I was preoccupied finding butanding.

I have a never ending affair with whalesharks. I don't know what's up with these gentle giants, but they just simply amaze me.

A few weeks ago, I spent four days out at sea, in Leyte in search of whaleshark, seen none but instead saw pilot whales, dolphins, seahorses, turtlessss....  (read my Leyte Dive Log).  Sometime last year, we also ventured in Pescador Island, Moalboal, Cebu to see thresher sharks feasting on sardines, some divers in the group were too lucky to also chance upon a whaleshark and caught it on video.  A few years ago, I had an awesome experience snorkling with whalesharks (butanding) in Donsol, Sorsogon.  Took me three attempts to see eight, and I was able to compile an extensive guide to whaleshark interaction in Donsol, Sorsogon.

This time, news broke amongst the diver community that there have been whaleshark sightings in the south of Cebu.   My dive peers went ahead immediately after our Leyte trip, while I was recuperating from an ear infection.  The following weekend, I had to gather my family and some friends to join me on an early morning two and half hour drive down south of the city.

We left at 4:30 in the morning, passed along General Maxilom Avenue and found party people still up and about while we are awake for a new day.  Two hours later we arrived at our jump off point, just in time for the seven o' clock feeding time.  The owner gave us a short briefing.  We were told that these whalesharks are actually resident whalesharks and the local fishermen have been feeding them for the past two years.  (But the fishermen says it's just for the past 6 months.)  These spotters (local fishermen) look for it and pour food (as bait) so it follows them nearer to the shore.

paddle boats

While us divers, swam out from the shore, non-divers were escorted to take the small banka (paddle boats).  These banka are small and could hardly carry one passenger, no safetly facility like life vest is available.  In a separate occasion, my friend's paddle boat sank.

snorkling with whalesharks

It took longer for me to gear up with shore entry than finding myself in the midst of a baby whaleshark.  Just two minutes into the dive, the whaleshark was just there, unmidful of the banka and people around.  On the surface, the fishermen were feeding it with some shrimps and krill - that kept it on the surface for a long time. 

The local fishermen allowed people to touch it.  Kids aged 5, 7 and 8 were able to pet it from the banka without having to get wet.  I dove around it for an hour, without needing to chase it.  The waters are crystal clear, one can actually admire it from a distance.  In previous days, there are have been sightings of up to three whalesharks, but this time, seas were kinda rough and makes it harder for the spotter to look for them.

feeding them shrimps

There is no existing ordinance to protect these gentle giants in the area.  The locals are neither educated how to protect these.  The fishermen themselves allow tourists to touch them.  The locals are definitely not ready to accept the influx of tourists.  I fear that doing this commercially at this time might harm these gentle giants.  Nevertheless, it's a joy to know that they are here.

sideview

HOW TO GET THERE:

• Leave the city by 4am to get there before 7am.

1. Take the public bus going to Oslob at the South Bus Terminal.  Advise the driver to drop you off at the Barangay Hall in Tan-awan. It's about a 3-hour ride from the city.
2. By private car, drive down south of Cebu, passing through South Reclamation Project,  the towns of San Fernando, Carcar, Argao, Alcoy, Boljoon  until you find yourself 125 kms from city center, 2 and half hours later.  There is a marker by the road side.

•  Look for a blue gate with the 'Whale Shark Watching' sign just beside the road.  Since it has become popular, there are quite a number of people on the road inviting you entry to their respective resorts, thus you won't miss the area.

• You can contact Jr at +639235688401  to reserve a boat.

Do interact responsibly.  Keep a safe distance and don't touch these gentle giants.  I hope government officials will seriously take part in the preservation of these gentle giants.  http://www.cebu.gov.ph/article/oslob-bantay-dagat-helps-whale-shark/



from bottom up

Post Trip Accounting:

P100/pax Spotter fee
P100/pax Boat rental
P75/pax Resort fee
  
or

P2000/2dives Diving fee, all inclusive of guide and tank

As there are no decent place we can purchase food in the area, we brought our own food.

P3800 whole Cang's lechon

Note:  new rates as of April 2012:
Snorkeling: Local- P500/ Foreigner- P1000 (inclusive of boat and guide)
Scuba Diving (per dive): Local P600/ Foreigner-P1500 (shore entry, exclusive of dive master, gears and tank)

Mactan Cebu: Gilutongan Fish and Olango Bird Sanctuary

It's not so bad after being grounded in Cebu.  Nine of us was determined to get stoked one Sunday, the wanderlass was determined to go somewhere, anywhere! 

With last minute arrangements the night before, we hired an outrigger boat through Aquadive Inc. since their own boat wasn't available, the owner helped us find another one, "Super Lucy", it was big enough to comfortably fit like 30 people.  It was a good deal for P6,500 in comparison to other smaller boats.  I could feel the monsoon wind that day, true enough, the sea was rough but Super Lucy was big enough to brave it and keep us safe.

aboard Super Luci with fashion blogger thirstythought

Gilutongan Fish Sanctuary

Our first stop was Gilutongan Island.  Gilutongan is a fish sanctuary.  Entrance fees is pegged at P100 per person for snorklers and non snorklers.

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary

This trip was meant to see the bird sanctuary in Olango Island.  It has been years since I last went there but didn't see anything.  So we thought of revisiting it.  November is said to best time to visit Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary, and it must be timed at least two hours before high tide.  The bird sanctuary doesn't appear like what I imagined, where birds fly in flocks.  When they get there, the birds are scattered around the vast sanctuary, feeding themselves, making their stop over from the winter months on the other side of the globe.  You would need binoculars to see most of them.

How to get there:

With an outrigger boat, depart the mainland of Mactan Island to Sta. Rosa Port Terminal, Olango Island.  P1 per person terminal fee plus P64 docking fee is charged by the Cebu Port Authority.  From the terminal, take a tricycle to Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary.  After haggling with opportunist tricycle drivers, we paid P250 for 4 pax, roundtrip.  We know we can haggle it much less than that but my bargaining skills wasn't that good.  The tricycle waited for us, for our return trip.
 
Fees: 

P20 Olango Wildlife Sanctuary Entrance Fee
P10 Birdwatching Guide Fee
P10 Non Professional Camera

telescope is provided by the guide

spot the bird from afar

zoomed in!  check out these endanged chinese egret

fees, fees, fees... i don't mind paying as long as they issue receipts!

I Love Cebu: Things to do

It is such a shame to be a stranger to your own hometown, right? It was a pleasure being a host to visiting friends from Manila and Bacolod, because I got the chance to explore and tour Cebu City and its neighboring towns. So I thought I'd compile the interesting places in my hometown that I myself have set foot on.

WHAT TO SEE:

1. SINULOG! Every third Sunday of January, Cebuanos celebrate the feast of Sr. Sto. Nino with a mardi gras. The street party is flocked by locals and tourists and it's the most feastive season in the island.

Diving in Cebu: Moalboal Sardine Run and Thresher Shark

It has been three years since my first and last dive in Moalboal.  It wasn't such a pleasant experience, we didn't see much at that time and it turned out to be 3 of my dive buddies' last dive.

A few weeks ago, it was the talk of the town. There have been consistent sightings of thresher sharks, whale shark and overwhelming school of sardines. Since then there was a renewed interest to visit the place by many including me.

Getting there:

Zipline in Cebu and around the Philippines

There has been much hullabaloo about the hostage crisis, I wasn't around to see the live stream, so it might not have struck me as much as it did to others, I was off to some place more peaceful. Nevertheless, it was shameful and it definitely put a slump on Philippines' tourism.


Anyway, what's up Philippines? Aside from the soaring index of the stock market (I have yet to sell my stocks, is it time?) I'm getting feeds from facebook and here on google, about the ziplines hanging up around the Philippines. Is this a craze? If it is, I am so out! I haven't tried one in my entire life, and that's so sad. My cousins are coming over two weeks from now and they are bugging me to go on one, why not!?

Talima Adventure Water Park, Mactan Cebu

Warning: the park is temporarily close due to non compliance of necessary permit to operate. (reopened: June 19, 2010)

The Talima Adventure Water Park, a water park at Talima, an island off Mactan, Cebu, opened last May 22, 2010.  It's a waterpark with life size inflatables much like the ones set up in Lago del Rey, Camarines Sur but at a smaller scale.  

Cebuano's really has the knack (including me) for trying new places.  So I pooled by friends and family one Sunday.  Aboard a rented outrigger boat, we left Queensland Wharf and got to Talima 30 minutes later.  Unfortunately, we (along with so many other boats) were denied entry since they were too full.  We ended up island hopping in the waters of Mactan.

After having been to many other places, it makes me appreciate the waters of Mactan.  I'm lucky to have access to white sandy beach 30 minutes from where I live.  The rest of the day was spent jet skiing!  Oh boy, it has been many years since the last one.  When we were younger, we would beg to rent it for just 30 minutes, and share the time among us siblings.  Jet skiing is an expensive sport, renting one costs about P3500/hour.  Thanks to my friend JJ and her brother, who lent us the unlimited use of the jet ski!  We went skiing circling the islands of Mactan together with the kids.  It excited them as well, fortunately, the sea was calm in the morning.  

Later in the afternoon, we went jet skiing again, near the shores of Mactan Island from Punta Engano to Imperial Water Park Resort.  The water was rough! I was sharing the jetski with my friend A.  We were soaked right from the start with big splashes while our seasoned friends were swiftly skiing with the waves.  As we went along, I was curious about a newly built  resort with a row of villas and a bridgeway hanging on an infinity pool.  It's the Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, the resort component of Seascape Resort Town by Filinvest Development Corporation.  I ought to check this place out next! :)

-o-

How to get here:

Option 1:  Rent a private boat from any resort/outrigger boatman in the shores of Mactan, Island,  a medium sized boat with capacity of 15 pax costs about P2500-3000, while bigger ones with capacity of 30 pax costs P3000-4500; this can be used the whole day.

Option 2: Take a common boat by Islands Banca Cruises at the Hilton Wharf (after Hilton Hotel) for P50/pax one way.  Daily trip schedule (except Wednesdays) is as follows:  8:30 am, 10 am, and 12 noon.  The last returning boat from the park to the  Hilton wharf is at 4 pm.

Option 3:  Take a public outrigger boat for P16 to Sta. Rosa, Olango Wharf at the Hilton Port.  Upon reaching the Olango Wharf, you may need to ride a trike going to Talima Adventure Water Park.

Talima Adventure Water Park Fees:

Don't be deceived by the P100 entrance fees.  On top of the entrance fee, you need to pay the following:

P250 unlimited use of inflatables including life vest
P100 unlimited use of zip n splash
P300 30 mins atv rental

Warning: Timing of the tide is crucial since the inflatables are a few meters from the shore, thus it will be closed during  low tide.  Zip n splash is likewise not allowed during low tide.

Bringing of food is not allowed.  There are a few restaurants and food kiosks like Cheaverz inside the park.  The prices are similar to that in the city (or so they say), but lechon is sold at a hefty price of P600/kilogram.

Off The Beaten Path: What's New in Cebu? Parkmall, Edge Coaster, Imperial Palace Resort Waterpark

In my previous post, I highlighted the usual tourist spot in Cebu.

You must know by now, Cebu's two major malls just recently expanded, SM's new wing boast high end shops and Ayala's Terraces highlight's a range of Manila's best restaurants. But what else is new?

Experience something different in PARKMALL.

Located along Ouano Avenue, Mandaue City, (across Convention Center of Cebu - CICC), Parkmall's charming al fresco dining experience in zen garden offers a wide range of restaurants featuring Cebu and Manila's finest restaurants. Mooon Cafe, Chika-an, Pier One, Manila Foodshope, Joven's Grill, KFC, Out of Africa, You Bar, Tandoori, Da Vinci's Pizza, Shabu Way, Mang Inasal, Bo's Coffee, Postrio, Ice Castle, Fine Cuisine, Kk Fine Dining, Saigon Quan, Tsiboom and more.



Indoor, the kids village is Parkmall's pride. Playmaze Fun Hub is any child's dreamland.



My personal haven are the outlets and the micro-retail shops on the second floor, having the best bargain ever for clothes and accessories with exhibitors from Greenhills, St. Francis, export overruns and local entrepreneurs. I was also excited with the opening of Pixel Pro, (by Henry's Camera from Hidalgo, Quiapo), I shall get my new toy soon. Finally, Visayans now have access to good bargains.

For more info, check out
http://parkmallph.blogspot.com/ or http://parkmallph.com

Go over the edge with Sky Experience Adventure at Crown Regency Hotel.

Located right in the heart of uptown Cebu, view the city and conquer your fear of heights on the 38th floor, with a thrilling ride on the Edge Coaster or do the sky walk. Check their website for details.

Get wet and scream at the Imperial Palace Resort Waterpark & Spa.

It's located along the coast of Mactan, Cebu (right beside Hadsan Beach Resort). This is Korean owned and aimed to cater Korean tourists. Rack rate starts with a whooping $250, but it's best to contact them for promo rates. Currently, promo rates start at P8,000++/night, day use is pegged at P1,500 with lunch buffet valid until end of September. We spent a night and I had a blast and service was great! The photos speak for itself, isn't it so inviting?

For inquiries and reservations, contact:
http://www.imperialcebu.com/eng/main.htm
call: 63-32)494-5241 to 44
email: rsvn@ip-cebu.com

Now, you have even more reason to come visit and revisit Cebu! See ya around! :D

Hanging Rice

Puso or hanging rice or rice pouch is rice wrapped in shaped coconut leaves. Making it "portable", not to mention, biodegradable. If you're interested to learn how to make puso, check this out. It comes in different shapes and sizes.

I grew up in a household that eats puso when we go for a picnic at the beach in Mactan, Cebu. Everyday, on my way to work, I pass by a neighborhood that cooks puso in Barangay Day-as, along P. del Rosario Extension, Cebu City. It's best paired with lechon (roast pig) and street food like grilled chicken, pork or seafood and ngohiong (five-spiced fried lumpia). Many argue that it is not uniquely Cebuano. I didn't realize that it's not readily available in other parts of the country, not until a few years back, when my relatives have to order from here and have it shipped to Manila.

Puso sells between P2 to P5, depending on its size and the kind (quality) of rice used. The price hasn't gone up significantly. A restaurateur once commented that it's more viable to serve (simply) rice rather than puso. A cup of cooked rice can be priced P10 to P30 but never with puso.

During my frequent diving trips in Mactan, Cebu last year, I've been in search for the best tasting puso but I can't find any. During my trip to Kawasan Falls, I proudly introduced the puso to my friends from Manila which we bought at Carcar Market, unfortunately, it was too dry and hard, I'm sure my guests weren't happy about it. In my occasional indulgence of lechon at the mall's food court, I was disappointed with CNT Lechon's puso. 'twas dry, it can choke (an exaggeration maybe).


In my most recent island hopping trip in Mactan, my grand aunt brought puso. I haven't had that good tasting puso for a long time. She got it from Willer's Store. I can't help but ask for directions. Willer's Store is a small eatery that sells bar-b-cue, in one side street along Gorordo Avenue, Lahug (between JY Square & Sinangag Express). Puso is sold at P5, with generous serving size, they use ganador rice which explains why their puso tastes good and soft. They can be reached at +639163334779 or (032)4147145. They are open only at night, so you need to call if you need it during the day. I gladly volunteered to bring puso in our recent potluck dinner, I was sure a good puso was the perfect match for our tasty lechon and ngohiong. :D

(credits to the owner of these pics.)

Wow Cebu - There's no place like home.

It is such a shame to be a stranger to your own hometown, right? It was a pleasure being a host to visiting friends from Manila and Bacolod, because I got the chance to explore and tour Cebu City and its neighboring towns. So I thought I'd compile the interesting places in my hometown that I myself have set foot on.

SINULOG! Every third Sunday of January, Cebuanos celebrate the feast of Sr. Sto. Nino with a mardi gras. The street party is flocked by locals and tourists and it's the most feastive season in the island.


BASILICA MINORE DEL SANTO NIñO is the country's oldest church and the only basilica in the Far East. It contains the image of the Holy Child given by Magellan to Rajah Humabon's wife. Look up and you'll find fine artwork on the ceiling. (A block away is Cathedral Church.) Don't forget to say your prayers, miracles do happen!

Right next to the Basilica is MAGELLAN'S CROSS, an octagonal shrine with a red-tiled roof that have paintings depicting the events of Magellan's visit on the ceiling. The original cross in encased with a wooden cross to preserve it.


In the middle of downtown Cebu, next to the Pari-an Fire Station, stands a bronze sculpture showcasing the "HERITAGE OF CEBU", commemorating the historic events that unfolded since the arrival of Spanish conquistadors and the battle that ensued between Ferdinand Magellan and Lapu-Lapu. I finally came up close to this masterpiece, I pass by it everyday on my way to work.

FORT SAN PEDRO, the smallest and oldest Spanish fort in the country that served as core of the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines. (Feel free to request the guard on duty to take your pics, he'll gladly take your photos and direct your pose!) Adjacent to the fort is a public park, Plaza Independencia (Freedom Square).

JUMALON BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY AND ART GALLERY the home of the late Prof. Julian Jumalon has the country's oldest butterfly collection from around the world and a display of his lepido mosaic art collection, so called because it utilizes butterfly wings as its medium.



TOP, high on top of cool Busay hills offering breathtaking view of Metro Cebu and the islands of Mactan and Olango. Best to visit on a clear night when the fog won't block the view. Entrance fee is pegged at P100, or find a local who has a discount card and pay half the price (they give that out for free on your first visit, but you have to ask for it)!


MACTAN ISLAND, where the airport is located, is a coral island famous for scuba diving where beach resorts of international standards are located. Go island hopping in pump boats and take along Cebu's specialty -lechon baboy (roast pig) and puso (hanging rice) for a hearty lunch at sea.





Two and a half hour drive from the city via the South Reclamation Project and detour at Carcar Market, takes you to MOALBOAL. Panagsama Beach, Moalboal has a strip of dive shops and restaurants, the tip off point to diver's haven like Pescador Island. A long stretch of white sand and live corals at White Beach is an option for non-divers.


Further drive along the coastline takes you to the next town, BADIAN. Visit Kawasan Falls, Badian for a refreshing bath in this ice cold three tiered cascade of crystal clear mountain springs. Rent a raft for P300 and go under the falls for a HARD massage. U can also take a plunge off the cliff next to the falls as high as 50 feet or trek up the mountain to the source.


Then there's also Taoist Temple, Bantayan Island, Balamban, Tuburan, Pinamungahan and wherever you go around the island, there's always good food, food and food!

I've been to more places than I thought! I'm a stranger no more to my own hometown Cebu. :D the adventure continues... I'm proud to be a Cebuano, there's no place like home.

PS. am lovin' my sony t-100 with underwater casing! ;)