Baler, Aurora

Baler is the provincial capital of Aurora. It is known as a popular surfing spot and is also known for its historical sites.

Ditumabo Falls

Millennium Tree. A 600 year old tree that had a hollow cone, so visitors could pass right through the tree; they could even climb up the roots.

Inside the tree

Ermita Hill

Aniao Islet

13-14 April 2013

Malasimbo Festival 2013

Puerto Galera is an island in Oriental Mindoro. To get there, one must take a bus to Batangas Port, a couple of hours' ride, then another hour by boat to Puerto Galera.

According to their website, "the Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival is the first international music and arts festival of its calibre in the Asia-Pacific. It is set amidst the tropical gardens of Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines; truly one of the world's most enchanting backdrops for a festival." It is "produced annually by a group of individuals who are passionate about music, arts, nature, and the Filipino heritage. Adventure, environment, and eco-cultural tourism are its cornerstones."

Jimmy Cliff, reggae legend

2-3 March 2013

Mt. Pulag

According to Wikipedia, Mt. Pulag is the third highest peak in Luzon.

We failed to reach the peak because of terrible weather. We only got to Camp 1, an hour's trek, and set up our tents there. We slept at 7pm because we couldn't go out, but despite layers of clothing it was still freezing so we were all awake by 4am. We trekked down immediately after breakfast, not exactly the kind of experience you want on your first time to climb a mountain.

Until next time, Pulag.

23-24 February 2013

Ilocandia, Day 3 - Pagudpud

Pagudpud. It is a coastal resort town in Ilocos Norte. (Source: Wikipedia)

Saud Beach. It was unfortunate that I didn't get to swim in this gorgeous beach because we had a tour that day.

Kabigan Falls.

Patapat Viaduct. Mang Arnel, the tour guide, said that back in the day, this road only had one lane, so the vehicles coming from both sides had to take turns. Four vehicles were permitted to pass alternately from each side, so they said "apat, apat" thus the name Patapat. :)

Agua Grande. It features a mini-hydroelectric power plant.

Timmangtang Rock.

Bantay Abot Cave.

Blue Lagoon.

This is a popular windsurfing spot.

Pagudpud Marker. This was included in the tour itinerary. Visitors had to play patintero with passing vehicles if they wanted to take a photo under the marker, which they often did.

Bangui Windmills. My favorite part of the Pagudpud leg of the Ilocandia tour!

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. This was made of limestone.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. It is a cultural heritage structure established during the Spanish colonial times. It is the highest-elevated lighthouse in the Philippines. (Source: Wikipedia)

Like all other old lighthouses, the place is said to be haunted.

Pagudpud Tour Guide. Mang Arnel is the most sought-after tour guide in Pagudpud, thanks to a story told by travel blogger Chyng Reyes about Mang Arnel's kindness. Mang Arnel shared that he already had clients lined up for April as early as October. Kindness really doesn't go unrewarded. :)

22 October 2012

Ilocandia, Day 2 - Vigan City

Vigan City. It is the capital city of the province of Ilocos Sur. (Source: Wikipedia)

UNESCO Heritage Marker.

Pagburnayan Jar-Making

The art of jar-making is taught to teens for free, so that they will continue the tradition of their people. Sadly, not a lot of teenagers want to learn pottery.

Hidden Garden

Baluarte ni Chavit. 

This ostrich looks high.

Chavit even owns dinosaurs, wow

The main attraction - his tigers

Syquia Mansion. This mansion was owned by the family of the wife of Pres. Elpidio Quirino. She is a descendant of a certain Sy Kia, a Chinese businessman, and when the Spaniards came, the name was hispanized to Syquia. The mansion was later donated to the local government.

A replica of Juan Luna's Spoliarium greets visitors upon reaching the landing

A four-poster bed

A walkway for servants so they can go around the house unnoticed

Calle Crisologo. The most famous street in Vigan is lined by houses that capture the architecture of the Spanish colonial era. It's one long souvenir shop. Many of the houses have not been maintained.

Visitors may rent the calesa for around PHP 500 an hour, depending on your haggling skills

Romance and nostalgia, two of my favorite emotions.

21 October 2012