I could say my bargaining prowess is weak. I don't usually get the best bargains unlike my friend T. Maybe I'm just not the type who wants to argue, I'd rather keep mum than go over a lousy argument (with some exceptions).
With my bad experience with the lousy service of Cebu Pacific I know I have every right to sue them, I'll just put that on the shelf for the meantime. Yes, just for the meantime, wait til I get some connection inside, someone deserves to be booted out. tsk tsk tsk Anyway, i should learn how others bargain with Cebu Pacific...
1. Our family friend J. was bumped off on his flight to Manila, his father-in-law was a columnist, so he had his experience written in the national papers. They were offerred two roundtrip air tickets. I called him during my ordeal, apparently, he couldn't care less since he has swear not to ever deal with them again.
2. My friend A, together with her family was bound for Guangzhou, they were bumped off but after refusing to leave the counter, demanding that their hotel bills be settled as well, they were able to get seats! I think concessions were given to anyone who'd give up their seats.
3. My friend J, was bound for Bangkok, her mom was refused to take the flight for the reason she didn't have visa to enter since she's holding a Taiwan passport. There's no need for a visa, they insist yet she never get to fly nor got any concession. Yes, visa is not needed as confirmed by Thai immigration officials.
4. My cousin B, booked a connecting flight to Macau. Their local flight was cancelled so they cannot make it to the flight. He was asked to pay for rebooking fees, but after repeated calls, they were able to rebook for free.
5. My friend's cousin C, received a call and was offered if she could take an earlier flight and since she can make it earlier, she said yes and proceeded to the airport. When she got on the plane, the passengers applauded her. She learned from her seatmate, the flight was delayed for an hour and the announcement made was they were waiting for a passenger. Humiliating! Her story was published in the local papers, I'm not quite sure if she got concessions.
6. My cuz B along with the rest of the passengers were kept inside the plane for 3 hours before it was announced that the flight was cancelled.
7. Me, I've written my story. I filed a complain at the airport and sent email twice to complain but never got a reply. Keeping my cool, I worked out some documents, called every day to follow-up the cancellation confirmation, I got my tickets refunded three months later with the help of my credit card issuer.
8. Me, I booked again with the same airline last June for it's irresistible all-in rate. I got two calls while I was abroad that my flight was cancelled. (grr, I had to pay roaming rate for that) Luckily, I alreay decided to forego that ticket beforehand, I alreay booked another flight with PAL. With that, I'll get a refund for that cancelled flight that I no longer intend to take. *fingers crossed*
From these experiences, I've learned:
1. To always keep your cool.
2. Listen first to what they can offer, take a stand then bargain.
3. Never leave the desk until you get what you want.
4. Free tickets are no good, you still have to pay for the taxes and fuel surcharge.
5. To call their hotline, use local phone with speakers, you have to wait for as long as 30 minutes before your call gets picked up. It's best to call at midnight.
6. While on the phone, be patient, sometimes they'll have you wait for 10 minutes before they can give feedback.
7. On the phone, manage your anger, the call center agent now has on their manual to say, "sir/ma'am if you don't stop, I will hang up."
8. Check-in early but even with a boarding pass at hand, it doesn't guarantee you a seat.
9. Credit card companies entertain complaints only when a cancellation confirmation is issued by the airline.
10. Contact Arnulfo Alivio, director for Manila operations at (02)8536781.
11. Don't fly with Cebu Pacific ever again.
Their promo fare is irresistible so prepare to face your ordeal... yes, I have booked a flight home for Monday. I'm not in a rush, but I hope they'll redeem themselves this time. Wish me luck!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
What Happens in Boracay Stays in Boracay
No electricity, no night life, no fancy resort but simply a long stretch of fine white sands and sand bars and clear seawater, this was Boracay twenty years ago.
I've heard so much how Bora has turned into a commercialized touristy area since, seemingly nice and sad reality. I arrived in Bora greeted by no less than it's lovely sunset, i could not help but lift my flipflops and stroll on it's fine white sands barefoot. Yes, 20 years later, I am happy to see the sand remained white and fine, thank God!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Sunset at Boracay
After 20 years, I've finally set foot on the fine white sands of Boracay again. 'Twas indeed an exciting vacation greeted by no less than it's lovely sunset...
three days later, it never fails to leave a lasting impression...
(raw pix by sony t-100)
three days later, it never fails to leave a lasting impression...
(raw pix by sony t-100)
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Unbelievable Donsol Trip
Just as I thought I have something to brag about today in my quest to swim with the butandings (whale sharks) in Donsol, Sorsogon, my experience is unbelievable!
Last February 23-25, 2008 out of 20 boats out in Donsol Bay, we were one of the few who didn't get to see any. Visibility was very bad due to the two-week heavy rainfall that hit the Bicol Region right before the trip. We were warned by the locals to cancel our trip but we didn't listen. We accepted defeat after spending 6 hours at sea.
We were so eager to go back for a vengeance in April. I've booked our flights, checked out the weather, booked the best Butanding Interaction Officer (guide) in town and made land arrangements.
The day has come for Donsol-2, April 16, 2008 my sis and I took the flight on Cebu Pacific, for Cebu to Legaspi via Manila. Our flight to Manila was delayed so I approached the check-in counter if we could still make it to our connecting flight and after an hour's wait, we got confirmation from Manila that we can since the flight to Legaspi will also be delayed and our luggages are checked through and we had our boarding pass already. When we reached Manila at 1pm, we were denied transfers. I spoke to my cousins who were on the plane, (they can see us from the plane!), they have not left and the doors are still open. They were trying to lure with ex-deals for 6 passengers to deplane. So the ground crew confessed we were bumped off since the flight was overbooked and our seats were taken! On record, they made it appear that we missed the connecting flight since our flight was delayed. That was the last flight for the day. They denied booking us on the next day, we didnt get any offers of concessions, they refused to provide a status report, they denied for me to speak to the supervisor, not until 3 hours later when I caught him speaking to another complaining passenger. After another hour, I took a pic of him, that's when he offered to let me fill up a customer feedback form and signed a certificate of delay, but that's about it. So we were left with no choice but to fly back to Cebu with no assurance that tickets will be refunded.
The lies doesn't end there, the supervisor on duty insisted that when we arrived, the plane already left. Com'on I have 13 relatives who can testify otherwise. The certificate of delay contained incorrect information as to flight numbers saying we were accommodated on the next flight. duh!
This has ruined not just our day but the whole well-planned vacation. I'm furious, I need a lawyer!
Last February 23-25, 2008 out of 20 boats out in Donsol Bay, we were one of the few who didn't get to see any. Visibility was very bad due to the two-week heavy rainfall that hit the Bicol Region right before the trip. We were warned by the locals to cancel our trip but we didn't listen. We accepted defeat after spending 6 hours at sea.
We were so eager to go back for a vengeance in April. I've booked our flights, checked out the weather, booked the best Butanding Interaction Officer (guide) in town and made land arrangements.
The day has come for Donsol-2, April 16, 2008 my sis and I took the flight on Cebu Pacific, for Cebu to Legaspi via Manila. Our flight to Manila was delayed so I approached the check-in counter if we could still make it to our connecting flight and after an hour's wait, we got confirmation from Manila that we can since the flight to Legaspi will also be delayed and our luggages are checked through and we had our boarding pass already. When we reached Manila at 1pm, we were denied transfers. I spoke to my cousins who were on the plane, (they can see us from the plane!), they have not left and the doors are still open. They were trying to lure with ex-deals for 6 passengers to deplane. So the ground crew confessed we were bumped off since the flight was overbooked and our seats were taken! On record, they made it appear that we missed the connecting flight since our flight was delayed. That was the last flight for the day. They denied booking us on the next day, we didnt get any offers of concessions, they refused to provide a status report, they denied for me to speak to the supervisor, not until 3 hours later when I caught him speaking to another complaining passenger. After another hour, I took a pic of him, that's when he offered to let me fill up a customer feedback form and signed a certificate of delay, but that's about it. So we were left with no choice but to fly back to Cebu with no assurance that tickets will be refunded.
The lies doesn't end there, the supervisor on duty insisted that when we arrived, the plane already left. Com'on I have 13 relatives who can testify otherwise. The certificate of delay contained incorrect information as to flight numbers saying we were accommodated on the next flight. duh!
This has ruined not just our day but the whole well-planned vacation. I'm furious, I need a lawyer!
Friday, April 11, 2008
Extreme Adventure Weekend - EAT Danao, Bohol
A visit to Bohol with no Tarsiers, no Chocolate Hills, no loboc river cruise...
We got news about this place from RCTV (local TV lifestyle channel) and Cebu Pacific's Oct-Nov 2007 issue of Smile Magazine. I wasn't so eager about the trip unlike my friend H since I've already had an awesome exhausting experience trekking in Batad Rice Terraces and spelunking at Sagada in Northern Luzon in 2006. But I can't allow myself to miss the fun while my friends are enjoying it... so I went along.
-0-
We left Cebu for a 2 hour boat ride to Tubigon, Bohol on JadeStar. From there, was another hour land trip up hill before we reached the Visitors' Center of Magtangtang, Danao. Out of nowhere was a newly built spacious Visitors' Center. That was such a pleasant surprise, all along, I thought we're in for a rough night out in the mountains.
Since we were not that excited about the trip because of our previous "experience", the guide decided to bring our group for an evening spelunking. I freaked out when I first learned about it (that was a few days before the trip). Isn't that crazy? We may have experienced spelunking but doesn't make us a pro. During the briefing, our guide tells us, we were the 2nd group to ever do this activity at night. I freaked out even more, makes me think am I this adventurous? And yes, I did it anyway!
The evening trek down the mountain with limited light was difficult, not counting the bees and ants around that left us screaming every now and then. The entry to Kamira cave was challenging I should say, the hole was small, we have to climb up then down just to get in, our sweat was dripping and it was just the beginning. 
Once inside, it was pretty easy for someone who has previous "experience" in spelunking like me. hehehe Except for that part where we have to do the duck walk since the ceiling was really low, that was painful on the legs! It took us more than an hour to explore the cave, and more than half of the time was spent posing for pictures not minding the bat dung that was on us! After spelunking, our group decided to skip the sunrise tour as we were so sure that we can't wake up early the next day. This is what we missed!
On day 2, we started the day hearing mass with a 45-minute homily! Proceeded with a (30ft)rappel by the falls late in the morning. 
Twas not as difficult as I've expected! You just have to have that go for it attitude and conquer your fear of heights, next thing you know, you've done it! So we continued the riverside activities... trekking by Wahig River, across boulders of rock with occasional drizzle... I had a hard time doing the trek with slippery wet sandals! Oh by the way, this activity is called bouldering! In between we had a dip in the river, with natural jacuzzi. 
To end the trek, we have to climb up the hill. We were actually not climbing but crawling up the slope! Since there was no trail, we had to grasp on whatever sturdy roots, branches or rocks we can find. With rocks falling from the footstep of the person ahead of me, the helmet served its purpose. We reached back to the visitors' center past 4pm for lunch... thanks to the camote (sweet potato) cue served before the activity it filled me up and the lemongrass juice was definitely refreshing.
Take a look at this last picture, imagine we trek from the top where this shot was taken, down to (Wahig) that river below and back up through that hill across. Whew, it's unbelievable. It was an adventure filled weekend and we look forward to their plan of setting up a series of Tyrolean Traverse (zipline). That should be worth going back.
It's a promising destination for eco/edu/extreme adventure tour for the Visayas or as they call it EAT Danao, Bohol. I hope they get the support of the Department of Tourism.
The EAT Danao tour costs P3,500/pax, all inclusive of transportation from Cebu to Danao, Bohol via Tubigon, full board and lodging (served all organic meals including snacks!) and choice of two activities, for more info check out their site.
We ended the trip with a 2-hour land trip from Danao, Bohol to Tagbilaran, Bohol on a Pajero with a Mayor's plate, a rockstar treatment don't you think?! We had a hearty buffet dinner at Bohol Bee Farm perfect to nourish our weary bones. We all managed to stay up late for a game of "catch phrase" before we snooze off in those cozy rooms of Bohol Bee Farm. We cancelled our early morning dolphin watching trip as we opt to bum around at the resort the next day before we take the fastcraft back to Cebu. :D
Updated rates per activity as of January 2010 from http://www.eatdanao.com:
Entrance Fee
* Adult - P25.00
* Children three (3) yrs. old below - free entrance
Parking Fee
* Motorcycle - P 5.00
* 4-Wheeler Vehicle - P 10.00
* 6-Wheeler & above - P 20.00
* Towing Equipment - P 50.00
* Heavy Equipment - P 50.00
* Bicycle - P 5.00
* Landing fee for aircraft - P 2,000.00
Charges for Recreational Equipments/Facilities and Activities
* Plunge - P700 per person
* Sky Ride - P250 per person
cable ride with a gorgeous view of the river and gorge.
The small open air cabin is suspended 200 meters above the ground, a 15 minute ride back and forth. The cable car has a maximum capacity of 6pax. It has a working load of 8 tons.
* Caving - P350.00/person (minimum of 5 persons)
* River Tubing - P200.00/person
* Kayaking - P200.00/person
* River/Mountain Trekking/Hiking - P200.00/person
* Wall Climbing - P100.00/person
* Rappel (60m) - P600.00/person (Minimum of 5 pax)
* Rappel w/ root climbing - P400.00/person
* Suislide - P350.00/person
* Suislide - P150.00/person same day ride
* Suislide & Rappel (60m) - P850.00/person (Minimum of 5 pax)
* Camping - P25 per camper
* Village Tour - P200.00/person
Rental Charges
* Rental of Water Proof Camera - P100.00/activity
* Dry Bag Rental - P20.00/activity
Transport Services:
5:00 am, 6:00am, 8:00am
Afternoon:
12:00 noon, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm, 4:30 pm, and 6:30 pm last trip
We got news about this place from RCTV (local TV lifestyle channel) and Cebu Pacific's Oct-Nov 2007 issue of Smile Magazine. I wasn't so eager about the trip unlike my friend H since I've already had an awesome exhausting experience trekking in Batad Rice Terraces and spelunking at Sagada in Northern Luzon in 2006. But I can't allow myself to miss the fun while my friends are enjoying it... so I went along.
-0-
We left Cebu for a 2 hour boat ride to Tubigon, Bohol on JadeStar. From there, was another hour land trip up hill before we reached the Visitors' Center of Magtangtang, Danao. Out of nowhere was a newly built spacious Visitors' Center. That was such a pleasant surprise, all along, I thought we're in for a rough night out in the mountains.
Since we were not that excited about the trip because of our previous "experience", the guide decided to bring our group for an evening spelunking. I freaked out when I first learned about it (that was a few days before the trip). Isn't that crazy? We may have experienced spelunking but doesn't make us a pro. During the briefing, our guide tells us, we were the 2nd group to ever do this activity at night. I freaked out even more, makes me think am I this adventurous? And yes, I did it anyway!
The evening trek down the mountain with limited light was difficult, not counting the bees and ants around that left us screaming every now and then. The entry to Kamira cave was challenging I should say, the hole was small, we have to climb up then down just to get in, our sweat was dripping and it was just the beginning. 
Once inside, it was pretty easy for someone who has previous "experience" in spelunking like me. hehehe Except for that part where we have to do the duck walk since the ceiling was really low, that was painful on the legs! It took us more than an hour to explore the cave, and more than half of the time was spent posing for pictures not minding the bat dung that was on us! After spelunking, our group decided to skip the sunrise tour as we were so sure that we can't wake up early the next day. This is what we missed!
On day 2, we started the day hearing mass with a 45-minute homily! Proceeded with a (30ft)rappel by the falls late in the morning. 
Twas not as difficult as I've expected! You just have to have that go for it attitude and conquer your fear of heights, next thing you know, you've done it! So we continued the riverside activities... trekking by Wahig River, across boulders of rock with occasional drizzle... I had a hard time doing the trek with slippery wet sandals! Oh by the way, this activity is called bouldering! In between we had a dip in the river, with natural jacuzzi. 
To end the trek, we have to climb up the hill. We were actually not climbing but crawling up the slope! Since there was no trail, we had to grasp on whatever sturdy roots, branches or rocks we can find. With rocks falling from the footstep of the person ahead of me, the helmet served its purpose. We reached back to the visitors' center past 4pm for lunch... thanks to the camote (sweet potato) cue served before the activity it filled me up and the lemongrass juice was definitely refreshing.Take a look at this last picture, imagine we trek from the top where this shot was taken, down to (Wahig) that river below and back up through that hill across. Whew, it's unbelievable. It was an adventure filled weekend and we look forward to their plan of setting up a series of Tyrolean Traverse (zipline). That should be worth going back.
It's a promising destination for eco/edu/extreme adventure tour for the Visayas or as they call it EAT Danao, Bohol. I hope they get the support of the Department of Tourism.
The EAT Danao tour costs P3,500/pax, all inclusive of transportation from Cebu to Danao, Bohol via Tubigon, full board and lodging (served all organic meals including snacks!) and choice of two activities, for more info check out their site.
We ended the trip with a 2-hour land trip from Danao, Bohol to Tagbilaran, Bohol on a Pajero with a Mayor's plate, a rockstar treatment don't you think?! We had a hearty buffet dinner at Bohol Bee Farm perfect to nourish our weary bones. We all managed to stay up late for a game of "catch phrase" before we snooze off in those cozy rooms of Bohol Bee Farm. We cancelled our early morning dolphin watching trip as we opt to bum around at the resort the next day before we take the fastcraft back to Cebu. :D
Updated rates per activity as of January 2010 from http://www.eatdanao.com:
Entrance Fee
* Adult - P25.00
* Children three (3) yrs. old below - free entrance
Parking Fee
* Motorcycle - P 5.00
* 4-Wheeler Vehicle - P 10.00
* 6-Wheeler & above - P 20.00
* Towing Equipment - P 50.00
* Heavy Equipment - P 50.00
* Bicycle - P 5.00
* Landing fee for aircraft - P 2,000.00
Charges for Recreational Equipments/Facilities and Activities
* Plunge - P700 per person
* Sky Ride - P250 per person
The small open air cabin is suspended 200 meters above the ground, a 15 minute ride back and forth. The cable car has a maximum capacity of 6pax. It has a working load of 8 tons.
* Caving - P350.00/person (minimum of 5 persons)
* River Tubing - P200.00/person
* Kayaking - P200.00/person
* River/Mountain Trekking/Hiking - P200.00/person
* Wall Climbing - P100.00/person
* Rappel (60m) - P600.00/person (Minimum of 5 pax)
* Rappel w/ root climbing - P400.00/person
* Suislide - P350.00/person
* Suislide - P150.00/person same day ride
* Suislide & Rappel (60m) - P850.00/person (Minimum of 5 pax)
* Camping - P25 per camper
* Village Tour - P200.00/person
Rental Charges
* Rental of Water Proof Camera - P100.00/activity
* Dry Bag Rental - P20.00/activity
Transport Services:
- Public Transportation:
- Trips per day from Tagbilaran to Danao:
5:00 am, 6:00am, 8:00am
Afternoon:
12:00 noon, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm, 4:30 pm, and 6:30 pm last trip
- Trips per day from Danao to Tagbilaran:
Morning:
4:00 a.m., 5:30 am, 6:00 am, 7:00 am, 8:00 am, 9:00 am, 11:30a.m.,
Afternoon:
1:30p.m., 4:00p.m., 5:00 p.m last trip
- Bus fare is P75.00
- Buses are at Integrated Bus Terminal – Dao – Dampas, Tagbilaran City
- Bus will only be at Poblacion, Danao. Motor for hire (habal-habal) are available to transport guests going to the Adventure Park at P30.00/person. We encourage guests to look for drivers wearing patch with Danao Adventure Park logo
Contact EAT Danao:
Local Government Unit -Danao
- 507-3106 local 187
– eatdanao@ymail.com
- 507-3106 local 187
– eatdanao@ymail.com
Ana Loinda Saluan
Mun. Tourism Officer
- 0917-3021701
Mun. Tourism Officer
- 0917-3021701
Ma. Weina Saguid
Booking Officer
0921-7594403 / 0917-3021700
Booking Officer
0921-7594403 / 0917-3021700
Saturday, March 22, 2008
The Last Supper
During the Good Friday Triduum yesterday, the painting of Leonardo Da Vinci came into mind. I had the chance to take a look at his masterpiece "Il Cenacolo" in the refectory of the Dominican convent adjoining the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie*, Milan, Italy in 2006. We took the train from Venice to Milan just to see this. With the growing popularity of the painting after the release of Da Vinci Code** (the movie), it requires several weeks of advance booking. So I booked a city tour of Milan including a visit of Cenacolo for $54 (now the tour is selling at $74 in viator.com!) to get a guaranteed entry to the refectory. Ticket price is only 6.5Euros, so much for the service fee! But it was worth it, this was my fave stop (and we found several tourists begging to enter that day).
We've always had a jigsaw of it framed and hanged by the staircase but little do I know about the painting's history. All along I thought it was a framed painting like what I see everyday with the carpet and vase in front (notice it?).
Leonardo abandoning the traditional method of fresco painting, depicted the scene on the wall of the refectory. It was designed such that when they ate at the refectory, it was as if Jesus was having his meal in front of them. In awe, I can say it looked so real! Extensive measures have been implemented to protect the fresco from further deterioration. Visitor intake has been restricted to a group of 25 every 15 minutes passing through several security clear glass doors to maintain a certain room temperature and limit exposure to light.**If you've seen Da Vinci Code they argued that John isn't John but was a girl in the person of Mary Magdalene. Our guide (who is a historical art major) during our visit at the Vatican Museum explained that young men were often depicted with long hair.
*Il Cenacolo Vinciano of Santa Maria delle Grazie is located in Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie nr. 2, in Corso Magenta. Opens from Tuesdays to Sundays. For more info, visit cenacolovinciano.org.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
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! ;)
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! ;)
Monday, March 10, 2008
God the painter
These are photos of God's artwork taken from butterfly wings that took at least fifteen years to compile, the so called Butterfly Alphabet. Amazing!
In a recent tour around Cebu, we visited the Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary and Art Gallery*. This is the home of the late Prof. Julian Jumalon, an artist having the country's oldest butterfly collection. The place isn't fancy and only a few live species are found in the sanctuary (should I say in the garden), but the glass encased collection are beautiful enough to be appreciated.
Apart from his collection, he was known as an artist for his lepido mosaic art work; he used pieces of butterfly wings as its medium.
For a P50 guided tour fee, we were met by a man in a wheelchair - paralyzed waist down; he happens to be the son the late artist. He started out saying "Take a stool for an examination." so I blurted "Now?" I thought, why in the world do they need my stool to see their butterfly collection?! and besides I'm not ready to do my thing! Only to find out he was pointing to those monoblock stool on the side implying that he was about to start his lecture... duh, I can't stop laughing at myself, wahahaha!!!
*located at 20-D Macopa St., Basak, Pardo, Cebu City, Philippines
Jumalon Residence, Tel. No. (63-32) 2616884
In a recent tour around Cebu, we visited the Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary and Art Gallery*. This is the home of the late Prof. Julian Jumalon, an artist having the country's oldest butterfly collection. The place isn't fancy and only a few live species are found in the sanctuary (should I say in the garden), but the glass encased collection are beautiful enough to be appreciated.
Apart from his collection, he was known as an artist for his lepido mosaic art work; he used pieces of butterfly wings as its medium.
For a P50 guided tour fee, we were met by a man in a wheelchair - paralyzed waist down; he happens to be the son the late artist. He started out saying "Take a stool for an examination." so I blurted "Now?" I thought, why in the world do they need my stool to see their butterfly collection?! and besides I'm not ready to do my thing! Only to find out he was pointing to those monoblock stool on the side implying that he was about to start his lecture... duh, I can't stop laughing at myself, wahahaha!!!
*located at 20-D Macopa St., Basak, Pardo, Cebu City, Philippines
Jumalon Residence, Tel. No. (63-32) 2616884
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Surfing in Siargao
"Habal-habal (motorbike that sits 5 or more!) takes one from Dapa pier to Cloud 9 - the most well-known surf break in the island of Siargao, Philippines.
I'm no surfer and I don't think I have the power abs & legs and balance to match with to stand on a surfboard and conquer the waves. Butofcourse, my adventurous self won't let this opportunity pass. I've tried diving, whitewater rafting, trekking, spelunking, free-fall... i'm sure surfing would be equally fun & challenging. Here I come, ready in a purple rashguard.
Daku island has more mellow breaks, great for us beginners to learn. After a physically stressful day, laid on a hammock with the best view of the sunset.
Not to be missed is the whole day island trip to Bucas Grande (a striking resemblance to the Rock Islands of Palau in Micronesia, they say). On a kayak, paddle through Sohoton Cave, the sole entrance that leads to a labyrinth of a lagoon where the pool with stingless jellyfish is.
Too little time, so much to explore..."
What an adventure weekend that happened to be Siargao DAW*!
*a reporting particle that expresses that the information in the sentence is second-hand; they say, he said, reportedly, supposedly, etc.
I'm no surfer and I don't think I have the power abs & legs and balance to match with to stand on a surfboard and conquer the waves. Butofcourse, my adventurous self won't let this opportunity pass. I've tried diving, whitewater rafting, trekking, spelunking, free-fall... i'm sure surfing would be equally fun & challenging. Here I come, ready in a purple rashguard.
Daku island has more mellow breaks, great for us beginners to learn. After a physically stressful day, laid on a hammock with the best view of the sunset.
Not to be missed is the whole day island trip to Bucas Grande (a striking resemblance to the Rock Islands of Palau in Micronesia, they say). On a kayak, paddle through Sohoton Cave, the sole entrance that leads to a labyrinth of a lagoon where the pool with stingless jellyfish is.
Too little time, so much to explore..."
What an adventure weekend that happened to be Siargao DAW*!
*a reporting particle that expresses that the information in the sentence is second-hand; they say, he said, reportedly, supposedly, etc.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Dumaguete dive log
Last weekend, we went on a 4-hour landtrip-barge via the Southern tip of Cebu, Santander for a diving trip to Dumaguete. I was excited to use my newly purchased Aladin Prime dive computer.
Day 1, dive 1 & 2: Dive Dauin [74ft, 66mins] and Masaplod [57ft, 66mins]
Unlike the dive spots I've been to, Dauin is primarily composed of brown sandy bottom. One has to have the spotter's eye to see those small creatures and critters found at the bottom. Masaplod on the other hand, is a small fish sanctuary, where corals grew in the middle of this sandy bottom. There we found this 1 meter-sea turtle, that didn't mind our presence.
L-R: leaffish, mating crabs, frogfish, clownfish, blue-spotted stingray, pufferfish, sea turtle, pipefish, scorpionfish
Day 1, dive 1 & 2: Dive Dauin [74ft, 66mins] and Masaplod [57ft, 66mins]
Unlike the dive spots I've been to, Dauin is primarily composed of brown sandy bottom. One has to have the spotter's eye to see those small creatures and critters found at the bottom. Masaplod on the other hand, is a small fish sanctuary, where corals grew in the middle of this sandy bottom. There we found this 1 meter-sea turtle, that didn't mind our presence.L-R: leaffish, mating crabs, frogfish, clownfish, blue-spotted stingray, pufferfish, sea turtle, pipefish, scorpionfish
Day 2, dive 3, 4 & 5: Dive Apo Island [86ft, 71mins; 80ft 60mins] and Ducomi [76ft, 67mins]
Coconut Groove in Apo Island was the experience to beat. The waves on the surface was fierce, thus, we have to descend fast. Luckily, the decongestant worked well this time, I made it down fast. At the bottom, the current was even stronger swishing here and there, thus, we have to hold on to our dear life line (a rope). We almost aborted the dive when there was nothing to hold on to. Thanks to the school of huge mating jacks that appeared below us, we were enticed to descend again. Thanks too to our Dive Masters, who made us feel safe amidst the strong current. The reefs of Apo Island is a vast area filled with corals and schools of fish.
With slightly strong currents and ships docking on the surface, we need our dive light in Ducomi Pier. The pillars of this pier are filled with corals and different interesting creatures. You can actually hear the fishes flap their fins! Lionfishes dominate the area as well.
L-R: commensal shrimp, nudi, us, jacks, black seahorse, me with dive light, lionfish, octopus, eel
Day 3, dive 6: Bahura Resort House Reef [92ft, 63mins]
I skipped the morning dive in Ducomi as I opted to take a good rest and lounge around the resort with a hearty buffet breakfast.
As rain started to pour, waves started to pick-up, we were about to start our dive at the house reef. This reef is deep and with limited visibility, there goes my ears
again, it took me some 10 minutes to reach the bottom (entry down 80 feet). As I slowly worked my way down, I got stung around my philtrum (for the 2nd time)! 'Twas worth it though. My first to see spiny lobster, mantis shrimp, boxer shrimps, jaw fish... i can go on and on :D
L-R: jawfish, boxer shrimps, mantis shrimp, spiny lobster, ghost shrimp, bahura resort
Can't wait to dive in Philippine's prime dive spot -Tubbataha, Palawan next year.
Coconut Groove in Apo Island was the experience to beat. The waves on the surface was fierce, thus, we have to descend fast. Luckily, the decongestant worked well this time, I made it down fast. At the bottom, the current was even stronger swishing here and there, thus, we have to hold on to our dear life line (a rope). We almost aborted the dive when there was nothing to hold on to. Thanks to the school of huge mating jacks that appeared below us, we were enticed to descend again. Thanks too to our Dive Masters, who made us feel safe amidst the strong current. The reefs of Apo Island is a vast area filled with corals and schools of fish.
With slightly strong currents and ships docking on the surface, we need our dive light in Ducomi Pier. The pillars of this pier are filled with corals and different interesting creatures. You can actually hear the fishes flap their fins! Lionfishes dominate the area as well.
L-R: commensal shrimp, nudi, us, jacks, black seahorse, me with dive light, lionfish, octopus, eel
Day 3, dive 6: Bahura Resort House Reef [92ft, 63mins]
I skipped the morning dive in Ducomi as I opted to take a good rest and lounge around the resort with a hearty buffet breakfast.
As rain started to pour, waves started to pick-up, we were about to start our dive at the house reef. This reef is deep and with limited visibility, there goes my ears
again, it took me some 10 minutes to reach the bottom (entry down 80 feet). As I slowly worked my way down, I got stung around my philtrum (for the 2nd time)! 'Twas worth it though. My first to see spiny lobster, mantis shrimp, boxer shrimps, jaw fish... i can go on and on :DL-R: jawfish, boxer shrimps, mantis shrimp, spiny lobster, ghost shrimp, bahura resort
Can't wait to dive in Philippine's prime dive spot -Tubbataha, Palawan next year.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
blogging
opening myself up to the blog world is a phenomenon. never in my wildest thoughts did i ever consider writing a blog for everyone to read. i consider myself as someone who is very private. i even seem aloof around strangers, but very candid around friends. a friend of mine is challenging me to come up with one, and here i am today, freezing my thoughts for the rest of the blogsphere.
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