Travel: El Nido, Philippines

El Nidois a coastal town inPalawan. El Nido is comprised of 45 islands and islets; limestone cliffs are also found here, which form a Karst backdrop similar to those found inHa Long Bay, Krabi and Guilin. El Nido is a popular destination for locals during the long holidays of the Holy week, but until recently has been relatively unknown to foreign tourists. El Nido is more than just a stereotypical tropical paradise. Beaches, clear waters, jungle, steep limestone cliffs and stunning inlets make for one of the world’s most beautiful seascapes.

Before El Nido became a popular tourist destination, fishing and harvesting swift nests “Nido” were the main source of income. Nowadays tourism has become the municipality’s main source of revenue; however, the authorities are trying to keep it sustainable and hotel chains are refreshingly absent. Huge tour groups are nowhere to be seen. El Nido is also known for water sports such as diving, snorkeling and kayaking.

Get in

By plane

El Nido Map

By Air, El Nido Airport(IATA: ENI) Island Transvoyager Inc. (ITI) has several flights a day to and from Manila and is the charter airline for El Nido Resorts. Non El Nido Resorts guest may book with ITI only 5 days in advance, while the El Nido – Manila flight is bookable ahead of time through their General Sales Agent El Nido Boutique & Artcafe. Note that the airport can accommodate only small aircraft, so the prices tend to be higher than to Puerto Princesa.

Puerto Princesa International Airport(IATA: PPS) is Palawan’s premier gateway, Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, PAL Express, Air Philippines and Zest Air connects the whole of Palawan to Manila, Busuanga, Cebu andClark. You can catch a bus, private of public van from Puerto Princesa to El Nido on arrival.

By van

Three Van companies are doing regular shuttle trips to El Nido, departing from San Jose bus terminal in Puerto Princesa. Fares are P600 per person and P700 for Hotel or airport pick ups (minimum 2 people) and the travel time is 5 hours.

FORTWALLY SHUTTLE SERVICE You can book directly at Cell: 09172762875 or 09213118755 or email: fortwallytransport@yahoo.com (www.fortwallytravelandtour.com http://www.fortwallytravelandtour.com). Departure times PUERTO PRINCESA-EL NIDO 7:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM,and 6:30pm,wherein from EL-NIDO to PUERTO PRINCESA 5:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 1:00.and 6:00pm(but depend on the volume of the passenger).As part of Lean season,Fortwally ,offer php600,one way fare including pick up in airport or hotel.We also offer van sharing from Puerto Princesa to sabang for only php 300/person.For more detail contact us.

EULEN JOY SHUTTLE VAN PPS-EL NIDO-PPS have daily trips from Puerto to El Nido at 7:30, 10:00 and from El Nido to Puerto at 7:30, 9:00, 13:00h. Phone: PPS +639494498858, El Nido +639494498858. Tickets are available at Artcafe Travel Center and other outlets.

LEXUS COMPANY goes from Sabang to El Nido daily at 8:00AM, 10:00AM and 2:00PM. Fare is P900 but will only run if they have enough passengers. Tel. 09121002652. From El Nido to Sabang at 5:00 AM and 10:00 AM. To & from Puerto Princesa P600. Tickets are available from most guest houses and tour booking offices

By bus

Air-conditioned RORO buses departs San Jose Bus terminal, Puerto Princesa and El Nido Market every 2 hours during the day and at 10pm and 4am during the night. Fare P483.

Non-aircon buses operate regular trips between Puerto Princessa and El Nido, stopping in Roxas and Taytay. Departures are daily at 5AM, 6AM, 7AM, 8AM both from El Nido and Puerto Princesa. Travel time is 6-7 hours, fare 350 pesos. Departure in Puerto Princesa from San Jose Bus terminal and from El Nido Bus terminal

These buses are usually packed to the roof, they break down sometimes (which can mean delay of 20 minutes but also 3 hours), the seats are very narrow and the road is not paved all the way. You may book a seat the day before and try to get a seat next to the driver or in the front part of the bus.

 

source link: http://wikitravel.org/en/El_Nido

Travel: Sagada, Philippines

Arriving in Sagada

The thing that struck me on my very first entry into Sagada in 1999 was how pretty it is – the abundance of flowers, pleasant architecture, lots of trees, dramatic limestone outcrops and beautiful views down the valley. It stands at 1500 meters above sea level, so enjoys a climate influenced by altitude and freshness. The pines that blanket the surrounding mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for this unique community.

Sagada is a prosperous town comprised of mostly farming families and others associated with agriculture. There are no tricycles here, which is a silent blessing. The quality of education that has been available here has been high, especially with the older generation. Intelligence displays itself as a community trait and the peacefulness and stability of the community is obvious at once. Very good English is widely spoken as the second language, rather than Tagalog. The Episcopal Church (Church of England) was the first to arrive here in 1901and be accepted, which has resulted in a unique spiritual partnership between the traditional ritual observances and the Christian. The community today is predominantly Episcopalian which adds an interesting slant in a country which is about 85% Roman Catholic.

There are many things to do in and around Sagada. If you’re like me, you’ll love the peace and quiet of the place, its beauty and freshness, the friendliness of the people and the ease with which one can move around. I know that one thing you can do here is rest, read and sleep. You can also walk, trek, go caving, camping, eating etc. One thing you will not find here is a jumping nightlife, unless you bring it with you. If you have your mind set on adventure and packing as much into as short a time as possible, by all means go to the caves and waterfalls, all within a couple of days, but if you have plenty of time, Sagada is one of those exceptional places in the Philippines where you should consider spending some extra time. The accommodation and food can be cheap and there are many beautiful walks to go on.

Until very recently, most of the tourists were adventurous foreign backpackers; today they are predominantly Filipinos coming up from Manila. The Halsema Road, the once tortuous track that links Baguio and Sagada, is almost completely concreted now, making it possible for “city” vehicles to make the journey. As a consequence of increasing Filipino tourist numbers, there has been an upsurge of new accommodation and souvenir shops. Sagada though is a resilient and strong community and it has been able to maintain most of its character in spite of its increased visitor numbers.

I have noticed a few negative effects on Sagada from the increased local tourism. The once good range of t-shirts have been replaced with kitsch “I Survived Sagada” t-shirts. Litter around the area has increased, especially around the caves and in echo valley.

Unfortunately, the center of Sagada is becoming rather ugly. This is because of the recently built local government buildings and the new commercial center. Fortunately, the three or four eyesores only affect a very small area in the town center. I hope these buildings will get a makeover soon and also that future town planners consider aesthetics, lest this beautiful place ends up looking like Baguio.

Sagada Attractions

Two Guides’ Associations – There used to be one only but due to differences in opinion, they have split into two. The original guides’ association is at the municipal hall in the center of town and the newer one is just down the road past the Yogurt House. Their prices are about the same and all have only certified and registered guides. Part of their training involves rescue and first aid training. The original association is made up of the more experienced and older guides, where the new association has younger guides. If customer satisfaction is the measure of which is the better association, I have heard that there is no difference. I have been camping with some of the older guides though, and being older, they have many more interesting stories to tell. So take your pick. The guides work on a rotation system that assures all of them equal work.
It is easy to lose your way, so if your schedule is tight, best take a guide. They are not expensive.

Limestone caves – Many people come to Sagada to visit the caves. You cannot go to the limestone caves without a guide. All the guides are equipped with hurricane lamps, so that the cave is well lit while you are underground. The prices are fixed, as are the number of tourists per guide.

The Burial Cave – is accessible to most people and can be visited without a guide during off-peak times. The climb down is steep towards the end and probably difficult for the elderly or very young children. This is a fascinating place, eerie and dramatic. Please keep in mind that this place is sacred to the locals, so leave no garbage, cigarette butts etc and do not touch the coffins or try to open them. The cave is marked on the local tourist map (available in guest houses and souvenir shops in town). The walk down the hill is gorgeous. Don’t hesitate to ask directions from the locals if you are unsure of the way.

Small Falls – Not far from town, this attraction is a disappointment to many as it is small. Leaping from the top of the falls is a favorite pastime for many of the local children. Not difficult to find, just ask for directions.

The Big waterfall – Bomod-ok – Unfortunately you need to pay for a guide to go down to the waterfall and that will cost an exorbitant P500. This idea was introduced late in 2011. For a single tourist this is just too much. You certainly don’t need a guide to find the waterfall. I think it’s poorly thought out opportunism on the part of the community. I have received some angry correspondence from people about this and it’s their sentiment that I am expressing here. What if every place in the Philippines that had a waterfall did this?

To get there, take the morning jeepney to Banga-an (pronounced Bunga –un) and ask to be let off at the big falls. The jeep leaves from the center of Sagada and the guides association can tell you the times. Find out about the times for return trips too as you will not want to be walking back to Sagada. The walk down the endless stairs is fabulous, the scenery divine. The falls themselves, once you reach them (1 – 1 ½ hours) are predictably thunderous and dramatic. Swim in the freezing waters if you like that sort of thing, but get advice about the conditions from a guide first. Note that a 17 year old girl from Manila drowned there in 2008. Although there were family and other people around, some who jumped in to rescue her, they were not able to save her in time. We have been given two accounts of the story, one that she got her foot wedged between rocks, and the other was that she was caught in a whirlpool.
The climb back to the road is strenuous. The steps seem to never end. Allow a couple of hours – if unfit, add another hour.

Getting to Sagada

There are no airports anywhere near Sagada so bus and private vehicle are the only transport options. There are two routes from Manila, one through Baguio and another through Banaue. Most foreign tourists will take one route to Sagada and the other route back. The traveling time from Manila to Sagada is roughly 12 hours, whichever way you go. For the Baguio route, The first 6 hours will get you to Baguio, and there are luxury coaches that also ply this route – Victory Liner is the best choice. The second part of the journey will take you along the Halsema Highway with stunning vistas almost all of the way to Sagada as the road winds over a mountain range reaching a maximum of 7,000ft. For the Banaue route, the traveling time to Banaue is about 9 hours and it is another 3 hours on to Sagada.

Hire Van – Unquestionably, the best way to get to Sagada is by hire van, especially for those who would or could not go by public transport – e.g. a little frail, traveling with a baby, the public transport is out of your comfort zone, etc. There are so many beautiful places where you would want to stop and go “wow”, which you can’t do by bus. Going by van leaves two options, one is to get picked up at the airport and go all the way to Sagada by van. The other is to go by bus to Baguio or Banaue and take the van from there. If hereto get the costs and more details.

From Manila to Baguio and onto Sagada by Bus – When going to Sagada, I always catch a Victory Liner bus in Manila at about 11pm, which gets me into Baguio at about 4am. I prefer the deluxe coach which has onboard toilet and does not stop along the way. This way I get some sleep. They have buses going every half hour from a number of locations in Manila, but only several are deluxe. The closest Victory Liner bus terminal to the airport is at Pasay. Regular bus is P450, deluxe is P700.

From the Victory Liner terminal in Baguio catch a taxi to the GL Liner terminal – just tell the taxi driver you are going to Sagada, they all know which terminal to take you to. Taxi is about P50. You can get some coffee and breakfast at the GL liner terminal while you wait for the first bus to Sagada.

The first GL liner bus leaves at 6:15am and the last at 1pm. Here is a picture of the schedule, which includes  buses to Bontoc. The trip typically takes 6 hours and the best views are on the right hand side of the bus (left hand side going back to Baguio). There are two toilet stops on the way and the stop closest to Baguio is also an eating stop. Going back to Baguio, the first bus leaves Sagada at 5am then 7am and several more usually, with the last being at 1pm. The Bus has neither aircon nor luxury. See picture view from the Halsema Highway.

Bontoc to Sagada – Regular jeepneys to Sagada leave from a side street just off the main road in Bontoc. Anyone you asked could tell you where. The first jeep leaves at 8.30 am, then on a regular basis after that until 5.00 pm. It leaves when it is full. The trip takes 45 minutes. If you are very lucky you may find the front seat unoccupied (indicated by no bag or jacket on the seat). Leave a bag of some kind if you want to wait elsewhere, as this will reserve the two best seats for enjoying the fabulous views between Bontoc and Sagada. In the back section, of course, you have lots of company and sleeping children, but the views are obscured by small windows and fellow passengers. The other alternative is the roof. This is a popular and sometimes necessary mode of travel and I would guess the best way to get the full impact of the terrain and its beauty. Beware the hot dry weather! You will most definitely eat a lot of dust on the way up the hill if you sit on the roof in summer. Parts of the road are still a very rough ride.
Jeepneys leave regularly for Bontoc, where you can take other transport on to Banaue or Manila. Last jeep leaves at 1.00 PM. If you have the time, spend a few days in Tinglayan (via Bontoc).

source: Travel Philippines

 

Asiana Is Asia’s Best Airline

 

Asiana Airlines (OZ) has been selected as the “Best Airline in Asia” at the 2012 Skytrax World Airline Awards held recently in Farnborough, England. Asiana placed second in the overall ranking for the Airline of the Year award, but was also awarded Best Economy Airline Seat.

Asiana was recognized for high quality services such as onboard crew chef and sommelier service, inflight magic show and makeup event, as well as cutting-edge cabin facilities exemplified by its next-generation business class ‘OZ Quadra Smartium’. The spacious seating facility allows the business class passenger to lie fully flat, and provides direct access to the aisle.

Meantime, economy class passengers also enjoy spacious comfort and amenities like the AVOD (audio-video on demand) system, a personal monitor with a wide range of entertainment choices. Also available for economy class are in-seat power, satellite phone and SMS and email services, infant care facilities and facilities for differently abled passengers.

Skytrax, the globally recognized airline and airport service quality research firm, has been awarding the top performing airlines in a number of categories since its establishment in 1989. The London-based company conducts audit and research into airline and airport service quality worldwide. The Skytrax World Airline Awards is a much anticipated industry event being based on airline passenger surveys Skytrax conducts around the globe.

Asiana Airlines has been a consistent top ranker over the years. Since its first ‘5-star’ rating from Skytrax in April 2007, Asiana has continued to maintain this rating for 6 consecutive years.

Currently, Skytrax has awarded 5-stars to only Asiana Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Hainan Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines.

Asiana Airlines flies out of Manila, Clark and Cebu in the Philippines. From its multi-awarded hub in Incheon International Airport, Asiana flies to Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Seattle and Hawaii in the States, and other destinations across Europe and Asia.

source: yahoo news

Travel: Tagaytay, Philippines

Tagaytay [1] is part of the island of Luzon, Philippines.

Caldera lake

Understand

A popular destination, especially for residents of Manila and Metro Manila, Tagaytay has a mild climate and dramatic scenery.

The weather in Tagaytay is mild & average temperature is from 22 deg Celsius (71 F) to 25 deg Celsius (77 F). There are only two ‘seasons’, wet and dry.

Get in

By plane

The closest major airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila).

By Car

Driving directions to Tagaytay for those with private cars, vans or taxi cabs:

[The following tips are taken from Backpacking Philippines website c/o “Tutubi”)

Option 1: via SLEX Sta. Rosa Exit, the most popular and easiest, is a straight drive all the way to Tagaytay Public Market (and right smack into Tagaytay Econo Inn) where you turn right going to Tagaytay city proper and Nasugbu/Balayan/Lemery Batangas or left going to People’s Park in the Sky. Usual travel time from Makati CBD is 1.5 hours.

Option 2: SLEX Greenfields Exit, an alternate route to Tagaytay that pass by Pramana, Nuvali, Eton City and Paseo de Sta. Rosa, ideal to avoid traffic buildup on Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay National Road on Saturday mornings thus making it the fastest route to Tagaytay on weekends.

Option 3: SLEX Southwoods exit then Governor’s Drive in Carmona going to Dasmarinas. Turn left on Maguyam Road just before the Shell Station to your left.

Option 4: Roxas Boulevard, Baclaran, Coastal Road, Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas via Aguinaldo Highway. Not recommended due to presence of heavy traffic made worse by SM Dasmarinas and Robinsons Palapala. At the end of Aguinaldo Highway is the Tagaytay Rotonda (roundabout) where a statue of Ninoy Aquino, a BPI with ATM, Days Inn, Max’s Restaurant and 7-11 store as landmarks.

Option 5: Another route for the adventurous to Tagaytay is via Daang Hari that passes by Molino, Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas and Silang. It bypasses the traffic chokepoint of Bacoor rotonda but not SM Dasma and Robinsons.

Option 6: From SLEX Toll Road 3/Sto. Tomas, Batangas via STAR Tollway in going to Lipa City, take Sambat exit and follow the national road to Talisay then go up Ligaya Drive, the zigzag road to Tagaytay (sometimes called Bitukang Manok, not for the faint of heart and newbie drivers)

If you’re a foreigner, you can hire vans to get there or an airport taxi. Some taxi drivers charge a fixed rate or double the meter fare plus toll fees.

By bus

Coming from Manila by bus

Information taken from “Tagaytay blog” – More details can be found here .

Take one of the following buses from the Cubao bus terminus (in order of priority and frequency) – 1) San Agustin 2) Erjohn & Almark 3) Golden dragon

The buses go to Nusugbu (final destination), but have “via Tagaytay” written on the signboard next to the driver. Frequency = one bus every about 30 minutes.

Travel time = 2 hours

Disembark at a crossroad called Olivarez square (now shown on google maps). Easily spottable due to the large KFC restaurant / Andok’s / Jollybee (if you are on the right side of the bus) and “Pure Gold” and Mc Donalds” signs if you are on the left side of the bus. After this stop lies the Rotunda (with a statue in the center and colourful lights at night) – this forms the center of the town of Tagaytay.

Tagaytay does not have a dedicated bus terminus – buses just stop at this part of the road. Ask the bus conductor to tell you when the stop for “Tagaytay” or “Olivarez plaza” comes.

Avoid taking buses going to Batangas or Balibago. Avoid JAM transit.

From Manila Airport to Tagaytay City: the cheapest way is to ride the shuttle service from all terminals that pass by MRT Taft Avenue Station and ride BLTB or Crow Transit Buses to Tagaytay. Alternatively, hire a taxi to take you directly to Tagaytay.

From Mandaluyong to Tagaytay: Ride vans (V-Hires) bound for Batangas and Tagaytay in front of Starmall at the corner of EDSA and Shaw Boulevard (walking distance from MRT Shaw Boulevard station). Fare as of posting time is PhP150.00 (this is the best option for those living in Rizal province)

From Laguna to Tagaytay: In Pagsanjan Public Market, there are vans/fx/V-Hires going to Palapala in Dasmarinas Cavite. On reaching Pala-pala transport terminal (near Robinsons Dasmarinas and SM Dasma), transfer to a bus going to Tagaytay where it’s less than an hour away.

Calamba to Tagaytay: ride shuttle service at the public market beside Waltermart Calamba or at the Calamba Central Terminal. Cheaper alternative, ride a jeepney going to Balibago complex in Sta. Rosa then transfer to Tagaytay-bound jeepneys.

Balibago to Tagaytay Public Market: Regular jeepneys plying the route to/from Balibago Transport terminal in Sta. Rosa Laguna to Tagaytay Public Market route.

From Alabang: ride the van/fx at the terminal at the corner of SLEX and Alabang-Zapote Road, Filinvest Festival Mall, or still another at Starmall (formerly Metropolis Mall Alabang)

From Cubao, Quezon City: ride buses going to Nasugbu, Lemery or Calatagan at Cubao Bus Terminal in front of Ali Mall.

Shuttle service (vans, FX, V-Hires) in front of EGI Mall (Jollibee) at the corner of Taft Avenue and Sen. Gil Puyat Ave (Buendia) going to Nasugbu, Balayan and Lemery, Batangas that all pass by Tagaytay.

Shuttle service (vans, FX, V-Hires) going to Nasugbu, Balayan and Lemery at Metropoint mall basement at the corner of EDSA and Taft Avenue (accessible from LRT EDSA Station or MRT Taft Avenue station, this is also the so-called EDSA Rotonda though there’s really no rotunda there). Current fare is PhP160.00 (regardless of where you’re going since it’s a derecho trip…information provided by Tutubi’s officemate who lives in Balayan, Batangas)

Buses to Tagaytay:

JAM Transit has trips to Tagaytay, Balayan, Batangas, Lemery. Jam Transit terminal is at Taft Avenue corner Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue accessible from LRT Buendia station.

Crow Transit (Crow bus terminal at the corner Taft Ave & EDSA right below MRT Taft Avenue station and walking distance from LRT EDSA station, same terminal as Erjohn & Almark and Genesis behind Sogo Hotel and MacDonalds) has buses to Nasugbu/Calatagan/Balayan in regular schedules.

Kirby Bus to Tagaytay from Lawton

San Agustin bus with signboard “Mendez-Tagaytay” from Harrison Plaza on Vito Cruz (Pablo Ocampo) or Baclaran via Coastal Road, Aguinaldo Highway to the towns of Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas and Silang before reaching Tagaytay. (note this is a slow route due to lots of chokepoints in Cavite)

Celyrosa Bus Lines, in Pasay City (note this is a slow route due to lots of checkpoints in Cavite)

Just put in mind that traveling via Coastal Road and Aguinaldo/Tirona highways requires a lot of patience since grave traffic problems takes place along this roads which can waste your time for 1 to 4 hours.

Travel: Baguio City, Philippines

 

Baguio  is a city on the Cordillera Administrative Region in the middle of the island of Luzon, in thePhilippines. Due to its cool mountain weather, Baguio is considered the summer capital of the Philippines. Because of its many pine trees it is also called the City of Pines.

Get in

To get to Baguio from outside of Luzon, one would still need to pass through Manila or Clark airport and from there get to Baguio by either of the following ways:

By bus

From Manila

This is the most common and economical way to get to Baguio from Metro Manila. Several bus lines ply the Metro Manila to Baguio route with terminals scattered across the metro. It generally takes about 5-7 hr to get to Baguio by bus. An hour longer than it would by car due to stopovers along the way.

• Victory Liner, ☎ +63 2 727 4534, +63 2 833 5019 to 20, . has hourly bus service to Baguio from its Monumento Main terminal in Caloocan City, Cubao and Pasay terminals. Buses are generally modern and air-conditioned but seats are sized generally for Filipinos and tall people would need to take advantage of the various stopovers to stretch their legs. Cost is just 450 Pesos per person one way (Most expensive among Aircon buses going to Baguio). A non-stop deluxe bus service is also available for 715 Pesos per person one way, water and snack are served during the trip. Semi-Deluxe buses are now included with one stop at Tarlac Shell station , costs around 650 pesos, no toilet inside the Bus.  
  

• Dagupan Bus, New York St., Cubao, Quezon City, ☎ +63 2 929 6123. Also serves the Manila to Baguio route via its Cubao Terminal. Buses leave on an hourly basis.  
  

From Clark airport

• Partas Bus operates a bus service that stops at Clark airport and heads north from there, departing the airport at 5PM. Get off at Sison (arrival there around 8PM) and cross the road to the restaurant stop opposite and get on a Victory Liner bus that does a dinner stop there. The fare from Clark airport to Sison on Partas Bus is 193 pesos, then from there by Victory Liner to Baguio is an additional 90 pesos. Travel time is 3 hours Clark to Sison, then 1 1/2 hours Sison to Baguio, plus some waiting time at Sison.

From Angeles City

• Philippine Rabbit operates from Dau Terminal. 250 pesos. Journey takes about 4-5 hr.

By plane

Sky Pasada no longer lists Baguio as a destination. It seems that only private planes land at Baguio now. Sky Pasada stopped the flights on November 2011, but have not yet updated their website which states that they do fly to Baguio.

By car

From Manila to Baguio by car, take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) from Quezon City until Clark and then hop on to the new Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) all the way north to Tarlac City, Tarlac. From there, it’s back to the old McArthur Highway until Rosario Junction, La Union. Motorists drive through the provinces of Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac and Pangasinan and La Union (if via Marcos Highway) or Benguet (if via Kennon Road). Of the three main routes leading up to Baguio, scenic Kennon Road is the shortest taking only three-quarters to one hour from the foot of the mountains in Rosario, Pangasinan. Marcos Highway starts in Pugo, La Union (a little further to the northwest from Rosario) and takes about one hour but is a wider, less winding road with a more gradual uphill incline and is safer in the rainy season. It has spectacular vistas of the South China Sea on a clear day. Naguillan Road is usually taken by travellers from the north and will take longer. All three roads can get blocked by landslides and Kennon Road with its long winding stretches is both scenic and dangerous. If you are intent on driving to Baguio, it would be best to hire a Filipino driver for this purpose. Most rental car companies in the Philippines offer chauffeur driven rentals in addition to the usual self-driven rentals. Visitors need to keep in mind that while it takes at average 6-7 hr to get to Baguio by car, it takes much longer during holiday weekends like Holy Week.

See

• Camp John Hay – the former R&R facility for American military personnel during the American occupation. Was turned over to the Philippine Government in 1991. Now under the auspices of the Bases Conversion & Development Authority (BCDA), Camp John Hay is now a sort of country club complete with an 18-hole golf course, horseback riding, camping and many more. A condotel has also been in operation since 2001.

• Session Road – the main thoroughfare of Baguio, where most of the city activity is centered.

• Mines View Park – enjoy the view of the beautiful mountain scenery and get photographed with DOGLAS(yeah, that’s the right spelling) the St.Bernard.

• Philippine Military Academy

• Burnham Park – go for a walk or go rowing on the small lake (100 pesos per hour).

• Strawberry Fields – go strawberry picking which is a jeepney ride out of the main city.

• Riverside Hotel – Enjoy Hot Spring Swimming Pools in a Valley surrounded by Lush Green Vegetation and stay the night (just 19 km from City Center), near the two Asin Tunnels drilled into the mountain facade by the Spanish colonizers using prisoners of war during the second part of the 19th century, one 158 feet and the other 95 feet long (starting at 1,300 pesos per night).

Thriving Tacloban, Philippines: What to do, where to go

Tacloban is not just another city in Eastern Visayas. It is the Visayas Island’s gateway to Luzon and Mindanao and is therefore a vital link between two prime destinations.

Travel time by plane from Manila is one hour, 10 minutes.

“We have three daily flights to Cebu (Manila to Tacloban flights, via three airlines, occur 12 times  a day),” Tacloban City mayor Alfred Romualdez explains.

He adds,“ You can cross just one ferry and be in Mindanao the same day.”

So what’s in for a Leyte tourist? Read on.

This testament to the Marcoses’ glory days still leaves visitors in awe.

Just be ready to remove your footwear and exchange them for rubber slippers once you step inside. The Marcoses’ former  vacation house, which has a floor area of 5,000 sq.m.  has 21 bedrooms,  some of which represent regions of the country.

The Palawan room, for instance, features a collection of mother of pearls. The Bicol room carries an abaca motif, abaca being the prime produce in Bicolandia.

The second floor ballroom has a wall-to-wall carving of Malakas at Maganda. Elsewhere, huge porcelain Ming jars, Imelda’s antique religious collections, Russian icons, chandeliers from Vienna, Australia, Malang paintings and other signs of wealth abound.

The bedrooms of the Marcos couple and their children, Imee, BongBong, Irene and Aimee, have brass beds from England. Bongbong’s bedroom has a divider with his collection of paper bills displayed on them.  Imelda has the biggest bathroom and little Aimee’s room has two beds – one for her, another for her nanny.

The S-shaped bridge, the longest in the Philippines, is an engineering marvel. Spanning 2.16 kilometers, the bridge connects Samar and Leyte and offers a breathtaking view of islands sparkling under the sun and a carpet of deep blue sea below.

The bridge’s contribution to Tacloban’s progress was one of the highlights of the Parade of Lights that capped the city’s recent celebration of the Sangyaw Festival.

The Leyte Landing Memorial

Travel back in time to  WWII, when American liberation forces led by Gen. Douglas  MacArthur landed in Red Beach, in the town of Palo.  Pose beside giant figures of MacArthur and his men and wade in the ankle-deep waters that symbolize the beach where he made the famous promise, “I shall return!”

Cristina’s Women’s Shelter 

This  two-story residence city councilor Criistina Gonzales-Romualdez put up for abused and exploited girls, is a halfway house for  troubled souls aged two months to 17 years old. A 15-year-old special child whose seventy something `guardian’ raped her managed to smile as Robbie Pangilinan, our friend, gave her and her friends stuffed toys from Manila.

Grade school pupils study at the nearby Remedios Trinidad Elementary School while older ones go through an alternative learning system, where they are taught the basics.

Delicacies

No trip to Tacloban is complete if you don’t try the succulent lechon, binagol (sweetened taro  pudding), moron (suman made of ground rice cooked in coconut milk) and sagmani (suman made of cassava, gabi or sweet potatoes).

The new fiesta

There is also something new to look forward to in Tacloban: the Sangwayan festival.

Late June, Magsaysay Boulevard housed the first Sangyaw Festival Parade of Lights.  Twenty floats carrying symbols of Tacloban’s past and present – a galleon with the image of the city’s patron saint, the miraculous Sto. Nino, a WWII military tank, the San Juanico Bridge, flowers, the butanding and a big white swan that stood for the place’s transformation, filed past cheering crowds.

The couple is reaching out to young people by swapping sweltering noontime parades with cool evening processions of floats with brightly-lit fleets that make you take a second look.

“We are doing something for the younger generation, for them to be involved,” says  Alfred.  “Previous parades depicted cultures of 100, 200 and 300 years ago.  But they do not touch on what it is today.  So we are showing things the more modern way.”

The more modern way means seeing a float that trumpets Tacloban’s progress in big, multi-colored bulbs shaped to form the letters  HUC (for Highly-Urbanized City). Tacloban reached this stage in 2008, when it broke free from Leyte’s political jurisdiction and won financial autonomy.

 

 

Travel guide releases 100 best street eats from around the world

It’s the kind of travel guide that won’t appeal to sensitive stomachs averse to dirt, grease and questionable hygiene. Because in Lonely Planet’s new list of the world’s best street food, there is no foam, architecturally plated dishes — or plates at all for that matter.

Instead, the first edition of The World’s Best Street Food provides gastronomically intrepid travelers with 100 authentic recipes for street food delicacies that will transport readers back to taco carts in Mexico that served the best tacos al pastor, noodle stalls in South East Asia, and octopus balls from Tokyo.

“Street food is the most democratic grub in the world, a place where politician eats alongside peasant, and flavors are unashamedly bold,” says food writer Tom Parker Bowles in a forward for the book. “…Lack of native language is unimportant. Communication of pleasure and delight is universal. A smile, or vigorous rubbing of the gut…The only phrase your really need is ‘thank you.'”

Each recipe is accompanied by a brief history and explanation of the food’s history, and the best bazaar, hawker or market in the world where the dish can be found.

In addition to the usual suspects — jerked pork in the Caribbean, tamales from Mexico, or pad thai from Thailand — the book also includes lesser known, more exotic street foods from countries like Vietnam, Turkey, Egypt, Myanmar, El Salvador and Tunisia.

Recipes include dishes like Masala Dosa from India, Bún Cha from Vietnam, Sabih from Israel and Hungarian Chimney Cake.

In a market research survey released last week, analysts at Mintel found that two-thirds of US respondents named authenticity as the single most important factor when buying or eating international foods.

As consumers become more globalized, well-traveled and food savvy, taste buds are also becoming more sophisticated and are able to make out the difference between Westernized ethnic foods — softened or diluted for foreign palates — and the real thing, the report pointed out.

In the US, street eats used to be confined to hot dogs and pretzels but in recent years have experienced a phenomenal transformation with the proliferation of mobile food trucks selling everything from authentic tacos to Korean barbecue at intersections in major urban centers.

British chef and food consultant Tom Kime — a former Jamie Oliver colleague — also penned a cookbook that helps travelers relive their experiences abroad with recipes like Chilean seafood empanadas and Moroccan hira bean soup in Street Food: Recreating the World’s Most Authentic Tastes.

Carla Diamanti’s Street Food: A Culinary Journey Through the Streets of the World also presents photos and recipes of favorite street eats from around the world, from the all-American hot dog to Sicilian arancini, Japanese yakitori and Brazilian Bahia acarajés.

Surprising Samar: Rock formations that will leave you in awe

Biri Island‘s claim to fame is the magnificent Biri Rock Formations. Located in the province of Northern Samar, this rugged island is a photographer’s paradise.  Untamed Pacific Ocean waves lapping on its eastern side, verdant mountains and mammoth rocks heavily eroded over time, etched with swirls and ridges, are the usual scenes in Biri.

 

The accommodating habal-habal (motorcycle) driver who drove me to Biri Rock Formations offered to guide me for my security but I politely declined. I preferred to commune alone with this splendid masterpiece of Mother Nature.

Over the years, Biri Rock Formations were naturally carved by the wind, storms, and the monstrous waves. There are 5 formations, namely: Puhunan, Magasang, Bel-at, Caranas, Macadlaw and Magsapad.  The most famous rock formation is Magasang but the geological formations at Bel-at are more diverse.

 

I stood on the edge of the craggy cliff and watched how the waves crashed into the gnarled rocks, a process that continues to reshape the island.  I saw white feathered-birds that look like egrets frolicking near the edge of the sea.  From time to time they dart through the water to catch fish. Suddenly, laughter filled the air.  My lens caught a group of locals having picnic on the other side of the rock formations. Righfully so, Biri is a famous destination for family getaways. A few meters away, on the natural pool, a fisherman and his child, topless and wearing obsolete goggles, were patiently looking for shells.

 

If you plan to explore Biri Rock Formations, pack your bags with food since there is no store nearby. The heat of the sun is unforgiving so make sure you bring water to stay hydrated.  Go there during low tide because you have to walk a few meters to the rock formations.  I walked through the knee-deep water with baby mangroves planted everywhere.  Some slippery rocks underwater are covered with moss so take extra care to avoid tripping.  There is a bridge currently under construction that will easily take tourists to Magasang Rock Formations in a few months’ time.  I just hope they don’t overdevelop the place to preserve its natural charm.

I used to just look at the images of Biri Rock Formations online, but standing there, dwarfed by these gigantic formations and seeing its splendor up close is a totally different experience.

 

Travel: Puerto Princesa Underground River, Philippines – 7 Wonders of Nature

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is one of the most significant protected areas of the Philippines. It is located in the Midwest coast of Palawan, some 76 km northwest of Puerto Princesa City. It was designated as a National Park on March 26, 1971 at 3,901 has by virtue of Proclamation No.835. To ensure long term viability, the Park was expanded to 22,202 has that includes the entire catchment of the Underground River and important forested areas by virtue of Proclamation No. 212 signed on November 16, 1999.

The Site features a spectacular limestone or karst mountain landscape with one of the most impressive cave systems in the world. It contains an 8.2 km long underground river that flows directly to the sea. The lower half of the river is brackish and subject to the oceans tide. A subterranean river flowing directly into the sea and the associated tidal influence makes it the most unique natural phenomenon of its type to exist. The discovery of 11 minerals, scientifically and aesthetically unique speleothems, and a 20 million year old Serenia fossil justifies the declaration of the Puerto Princesa Underground River as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

The Site also contains a full mountain to sea ecosystems and protects forests that are important for biodiversity conservation. It is a representative of Palawan Moist Forests, which are among the most significant in Asia, and is noted for high levels of regional and local endemism. The Site serves as habitat to numerous endangered, rare and endemic wildlife species. In the coastal area, mangroves, sea grass beds and coral reefs are found.

In recognition of its outstanding universal value, it was inscribed to the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s World Heritage List on December 4, 1999. Inscription to this prestigious list confirms the outstanding universal value of the Park and its well-integrated state of conservation.

Thru the efforts of Mayor Edward S. Hagedorn, management of the Park was transferred to the City Government of Puerto Princesa on December 16, 1992. It has the distinction of being the first national park devolved and successfully managed by a local government unit. It is managed by the City thru a multi-sector Protected Area Management Board (PAMB). It is a model for effective protected area management and sustainable tourism in the Philippines.

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a source of pride and a key element in the identity of the people of Puerto Princesa in particular and of the Philippines as a whole. It is a symbol of commitment by the Filipino people in the global efforts to conserve our natural heritage.

How to get there:

By plane

Puerto Princesa is slightly more than an hour away by plane from Manila. Philippine Airlines [1], Cebu Pacific [2] and Air Philippines [3], Zest Air [4] all have daily flights from Manila to Puerto Princesa. Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific also operates flights to and from Puerto Princesa to other major cities such as Davao and Cebu City. SEAIR [5] offers flights from Busuanga Tu/F/Su and El Nido on Tu/F. Starting from this year 2012, there are now daily connecting/return budget flights by Philippines AirAsia from Clark/Angeles City in Luzon direct to Puerto Princesa.

The airport is practically in the city centre so you can ignore the overpriced tricycles waiting in front of the arrival and catch a tricycle on the main road for a fare of 7-10 pesos per passenger.

The airport is small and can be closed at certain points in the day (e.g. between 2pm and 3pm) and there are only 2 cafes and some local eateries outside the airport, therefore don’t plan to kill any time here.

By ferry

SuperFerry and Negros Navigation  both have a weekly ferry to Puerto Princesa from Manila. The ferry trip is about 22 hours long.

Milagrosa Shipping has a weekly ferry that sails between Puerto Princesa – Cuyo Islands – Iloilo. It departs Iloilo at 7pm on Thursday, arrives at the Cuyo Islands at 8am Friday, departs Cuyo Islands 3pm Friday and arrives in Puerto Princesa at 8am on Saturday.

Travel: Boracay Island, Philippines

Boracay is a tropical island about an hour’s flight from Manila in the Philippines. Its long white sand beaches rival the best beaches of more popular destinations such as the Caribbean, the South Pacific as well as neighbouring Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Facilities are available to suit different levels of activity. For those wanting to just lounge around and take in some rays, beach-front hotels usually have lounge chairs set up just a few steps away from the hotel entrances. Facilities for the usual water sports activities such as sailing, wind surfing, snorkeling, diving and jet skiing are also widely available for those in search of more active pursuits. The fun in Boracay also doesn’t end when the sun sets. Boracay nightlife is pulsating with many bars and restaurants serving food, drink and fun until the very late evening.

[edit] Understand

Map of Boracay

 

Areas

White Beach is divided into five areas from

• Area 1— Boracay Terraces (north) to Willy’s Rock
• Area 2— From Willy’s Rock to Red Coconut Resort
• Area 3— From Red Coconut to Boat Station 2
• Area 4— From Boat Station 2 to Station 3
• Area 5 — From Boat Station 3 to Angol Point

In every station, there are two lifeguards on foot patrolling equipped with whistle, life buoy and hand-held radio. The boat station 2 is the lifeguard and rescue command center.

Climate

During the dry season (Nov-Apr), also known as Amihan, White Beach is calm and very suitable for swimming, etc. The other side of the island has large winds and waves making it suitable for wind surfing, wave running, etc. During the rainy season (Jun-Oct), also known as Habagat, this is reversed, with a risk of typhoons. White Beach often gets large winds and waves which sometimes makes it unsuitable for swimming. Current weather conditions can be found at boracayweatherstation.com

Boracay Beach Live Cameras

Boracay Island visualization can only go so far through pictures. See an array of Boracay Beach Cameras to actually see what Boracay looks like and to actually see the weather, what to expect and more. Live Boracay cameras boost tourism and promotes Filipino pride. See the beauty that is Boracay[2], Philippines in your own eyes.

• Boracay Beach Live – Boracay Camera located at Red Coconut Beach Front Resort with a 12 Mega Pixel, High Definition, Wide Angle Lens Camera which live streams – no delays 24 hours A day.

• Ariel’s House Boracay Beach Camera – Boracay camera is located at Ariel’s Bar which is beach front boat station 1 with a 30 second camera refresh rate.

• Nigi Nigi Too Boracay Beach Camera. Boracay Camera located at Nigi Nigi Too Beach Front Resort beach front boat station 1 with a refresh rate of approximately every 5 seconds.

Get in

Whether you go by plane or by boat, the port of entry for Boracay Island is the small town of Caticlan on the mainland. Outrigger boats or “bancas” leave every few minutes from Caticlan’s jetty port. The short boat trip to Boracay’s jetty port at Cagban costs 20 Pesos. Tourists have to pay a terminal fee of 50 Pesos and an environmental fee of 75 pesos. Tricycles are available at Cagban to bring passengers to their hotels. Tricycle fare is from P20 per pax up to P150 per trip depending where your resort is.

From Cagban Port to Station 1, the most that you should pay is P25 per head. That is, if you don’t mind sharing the tricycle with other tourists. If you don’t want to rent the tricycle and allow the driver to pick up other passengers along the way, say you just want the “Individual” price and not “Special”

By plane

There are two airports located near to the island of Boracay.

• Caticlan or Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (IATA: MPH) (ICAO: RPVE) – Only small body aircrafts could land in this airport. Airlines with flights to and from Caticlan are South East Asian Airlines(SEAIR)[3], Cebu Pacific Air[4] and Air Philippines[5] from Manila, Cebu and Clark. From the Caticlan airport, you can either take a tricycle (PhP 40.00) or walk (10 minutes) to Caticlan Jetty Port. You can’t take more than 15 kg luggage, when flying here.

• Kalibo International Airport (IATA: KLO) (ICAO: RPVK) – Compared to Caticlan’s airport, the runway is able to hold aircrafts such as Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 however it is farther from Caticlan’s jetty port which is 90 minutes away. Cebu Pacific Air, China Airlines[6], Philippine Airlines[7], and Zest Airways[8] connects Kalibo to Manila, Taipei, Shanghai and Seoul. Now budget carrier Philippines AirAsia connects from Clark/Angeles City in central Luzon to Kalibo with daily return flights. There are minivans, vans, coasters and buses that serve travellers between Kalibo International Aiport and Caticlan Jetty Port. Be sure to ask if your ticket includes a ferry to Boracay (₱200 for a van and ferry, ₱300 for more comfortable bus), and how much the additional environmental taxes will be (a total of ₱125 on top of your tickets).

Note that if your flight connects in Manila, you will be charged an airport tax of ₱200 in cash between flights. When you leave Manila on an international flight (upon departure) you will be charged ₱750.

By road and ferry (RoRo)

The “Nautical Highway” is a combination of overland highways and roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) vessels that allow you to bring your vehicle up to Panay Island [9] and visit key cities like Kalibo. Taking your car all the way to Boracay, though, is not possible. Public transport also operates on the same route, and is the most cost-effective way of traveling between Manila and Boracay. Assuming good connections, the total journey time is around 12 hours.

The easiest way of arranging this is to book a van in Manila by contacting private operators such as Angel Star (02 783-0886 c/o Abner) and Gope (02 732-6891 c/o Cesar). This will enable you to book a straight trip from Manila to Caticlan at the cost of P1200, more or less. Their group operates several passenger vans which can load 10-14 or 15-18 persons. You book the trip exclusively or share with fellow travellers. The Van leaves at 9PM daily from Manila, travelling through Batangas-Calapan-Roxas (arrives Roxas at 5AM or 6AM) to catch the 8AM or 10AM ferry/boat to Caticlan, where you are expected to arrive between noon to 2PM. Before proceeding to Boracay Island though, be sure to get your return ticket (Roxas-Manila) at the Caticlan Ferry Terminal (inquire about the updated schedule from the staff of the van operators). Take an early dinner before boarding the van and bring water and something to eat while on travel. Riding a van gives you a more relaxed pace to Caticlan because you wouldn’t have to stop in many sub-destinations which lengthen your trip and therefore can be truly tiresome.

The more challenging (but slightly cheaper) do-it-yourself version goes as follows:

The easiest way would be to book a straight trip that allows you to purchase just one ticket from Cubao terminal to Caticlan Port. The cost is between 1000-1200 pesos.

But if you really want to save money, you can also commute from Cubao bus terminal station (near Alimall). There is really no difference except for the fact that you need to purchase ticket/s in every stop.

Cubao-Batangas Best leave between 7pm-8pm so you arrive in Batangas Port before 10pm.

Batangas-Calapan the trip takes 2 hours via cargo ship or an hour to one hour and a half via supercat. Do not purchase tickets for the Calapan to Roxas Van as this can either be a scam or you end up squeezed in one van along with several other passengers with tickets.

Calapan-Roxas Takes about 4 hours. Make sure you leave early so you arrive before 4am. In the morning, the ship to Caticlan usually leaves at 2am and 4am and the next trip wont be until 10am. The 10am trip usually leaves late.

This is the best time to leave travel via Cubao to Roxas. You arrive in Caticlan at 8am and you are left to enjoy the rest of your day in Boracay.

You can also start your journey with Philtranco, Alps, Dimple, Ceres, Rodastco coaches which leave at regular intervals throughout the day from Cubao, serving the Manila-Caticlan route for P1,200.00. Rodastco also offers a door-to-door service with pick ups anywhere in Metro Manila. The contact numbers for trip booking are +63 2-7326891 or +63 917-3820426, or +63 919-3820426.

Get around

Boracay sandcastle

• Most visitors opt for motorized tricycles, which act as the island’s taxis and make up most of its traffic. Rides are inexpensive, usually no more than PhP 100 for individual (per tricycle, not shared with other people) ride to any point on the island, and can be found almost anywhere along the main road. As the tricycle seats are (in)conveniently located right above the vehicle exhausts, there can be a little pollution however – bring a handkerchief if you tend to be easily bothered by this sort of thing.

• Short rides on busy routes, say from D’Mall to Station 3 or from Station 1 to Station 3, are a standard rate of 20 pesos per passenger, but expect the tricycle driver to ask for 40 pesos or more if you look like a foreigner. Long rides, like Puka beach to D’Mall, should cost around P40. Drivers waiting near beaches, hotels, etc. generally ask higher price like P150-200, even if you’re alone. May worth bargaining if there are a few people with you and you want an individual ride – otherwise, batter catch a passing-by tricycle on the main road.

• Scooters provide the best flexibility at a reasonable price. The downside is having to deal with island traffic which can be unnerving for visitors unused to the aggressive tricycle drivers.

• Mountain bikes are also available for rent at several locations along White Beach, which is off limits to motorized vehicles.

• To explore around the island, rent a native sailboat (paraw) or motorized outrigger (banca) and visit the many beaches of Boracay.

See

Willy’s Rock, White Beach, Boracay

Puka Beach

• White Beach – This is what most people are here for. Not only is it a lovely stretch of powdery white sand against azure water, it’s also the commercial center of the island. The long beach is divided into three sections, Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. Station 1 is the northernmost and has the widest beachfront, where prime hotels and resorts are located. Accommodations are pricier, but quality is generally the best as well. Station 2 is the commercial and geographical center of white beach. This is the center of it all for for shopping, eating, partying, and etc. That said, the beach here is also the most crowded, and the area the nosiest. Station 3 is the southernmost section; quieter than station 2, it is the least developed, and also the lowest priced. All of White Beach from the northernmost tip of Station 1 to the southernmost of Station 3 (~4km) is open to the public, so one can relax and/or swim wherever they like, regardless of hotel location.

• Puka Beach – A quiet stretch of white sand along the northern tip of the island, Puka Beach is an image of what most people expect on a tropical island: white sand, azure water, and relatively empty. This is where locals gather the small puka shells for some of the jewelry that is sold on the island so expect the sand to be more coarse than on White Beach. The water tends to be a little rougher on this side of the island but it is much quieter. Similarly, there are fewer services — there are only a couple of restaurants, but you likely won’t have a problem getting a cold drink or an ice cream as there are a few vendors that patrol the beach. The main road in Boracay terminates at Puka Beach therefore you’ll be able to hire a tricycle to get there in less than 10-15 minutes from central White Beach. Make sure you arrange a pickup if it is a quiet day and no tricycles are hanging around the beach. Most people experience Puka as one of their sailboat or banca stops during a day trip. This is a good spot for a picnic, but be sure to bring your trash home with you.

• Baling Hai Beach – This is a quiet little cove just north of Diniwid Beach, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling and dining in a relaxed, peaceful environment. There are some fantastic views from the clifftop restaurant. Baling Hai is often included as a stop-off on an island boat tour.

• Bulabog Beach – Come there on a windy days to see kiteboarders doing high jumps and crazy tricks.

• The Bat Cave. One will see in several tour guides and maps of Boracay something called the Bat Cave, which houses many small insectivorous bats (the larger fruit bats roost in the trees on the hillside above Punta Bunga Beach), and locals will be more than happy to accompany you there for a fee, or “tip”. The cave is on the western-end of the island and down several dirt roads. The guide will then take you on a short hike through the forest to the mouth of a cave, which drops down at a very steep angle. The mouth of the cave is littered with large boulders, and is extremely difficult to enter and walk down. There is no visible path, no handrail, and the stones are extremely slippery with slime and bat guano, as well as extremely dangerous, since the cave is at such an extreme angle. Also, the air inside the cave is very warm and humid, and in addition to the amount of guano, is very difficult to breathe. Additionally, several snakes live inside the cave. Caution should be taken by those visiting and entering the cave. There are bats in the cave, but down at the bottom of it in the dark, and unless you have a flashlight or are there at dusk, you won’t see them. The ceiling of the cave is interesting, however, with multiple, small stalactites. Just nearby, you can find another cave, called “crystal” cave which has a lot of stalactites and a hole on the opposite site of the entrance, from which you can watch out to the sea if you dare to climb up to it. You will have to pay 50P entry-fee to visit both caves on behalf of the family that owns the land, in addition to paying your guide. Visiting both caves can cost up to 2500P for the guide, but this is the “rich tourist price”, so try to bargain if you like.

Do

Cliff Diving at Ariel’s Point

Fire Dancing

Scuba diving

For those interested in Scuba Diving and Diving Packages, there are literally dozens of Dive Centres along the White Beach; it is a good place to learn or to improve your skills. Cost is typically $33 per dive which includes hire of all equipment.The dive centres operate a cartel and have agreed standard prices amongst themselves so prices will be the same at all centres. There are 25-30 dive sites within 10-15 minutes speed boat ride from the beach, suitable for beginners up to advanced level. Dives range from ‘Angol Point’ (10m), through ‘Crocodile Island’ (22-25m), a straightforward wall dive, up to ‘Yapak’- a deep wall dive suitable for only the most experienced divers due to strong currents, although there is the possibility of seeing sharks and stingrays.

Boat tours

Boat trip on a sunset

The best way to see the beauty of Boracay and its various beaches is by Paraw (native outrigger sailboat). You will be constantly asked if you want to take a boat trip, as there are literally dozens of companies offering this service. It is better to go with a reputable and established group such as Allen Fun Tours (motorized banca boat tours) or Red Pirates (paraw sailing) to ensure your safety and avoid being overcharged.

Kiteboarding

Kites on Bulabog beach

Boracay’s Bulabog beach is known as the best kitesurf destination in Asia. The season runs from November through to April with onshore winds varying between 12-30 knots. Small lagoon (2km wide) is protected from waves with coral reef. Water becomes almost flat on a low tide, making it easy to start learning kitesurfing and continue with freestyle tricks. Because of its nice conditions, spot becomes overcrowded with riders in high season. Serious disadvantage is sewage pollution of lagoon, so smell from water and infections from even small injuries are common.

• Freestyle Academy Kitesurfing School, Bulabog Beach, ☎ 09155593080 (info@freestyle-boracay.com), [10]. Kitesurfing School owned by local hero Ken Nacor, offers lessons from beginner to advanced. All instructors are IKO-certified.  
• Isla Kiteboarding school, Bulabog Beach, ☎ +63362885352 (info@islakitesurfing.com), [11]. Offers courses from beginners to advanced level. All instructors are IKO-certified  
• Pinas Kite Boarding, Bulabog Beach, ☎ 09182574658, [12]. Locally owned kite-boarding shop, offers courses from level 1 to 3. All instructors are IKO-certified.  

Skimboarding

Skimboarding in Boracay has been a new fun sport for kids and entertainment for older for people for several years. It is a welcome new attraction and a pleasure to watch. Skimboards are available for rent at several places along White Beach. But be sure to hire an expert to teach you to do the skills, 1-hour lesson from a local rider is usually around 300 peso.