Hidden Beaches to Visit and Discover

1. Quinale Beach

Brgy. Poblacion, Anda, Bohol

Beach-loving travelers gravitate to the south-western coast when visiting Bohol, but little do most people know that the municipality of Anda, on the eastern side, harbors one of the province's best-kept secrets. Fronting the town church and plaza, Quinale Beach is a 3km stretch of bone-white powder that melts into shallow turquoise waters, delighting even the most discerning of beach afficionados. Plus, nearby coral reefs offer spectacular diving with marine turtles, multicolored nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses.

2. Caluwayan Beach

Brgy. Caluwayan, Marabut, Samar

Despite being the third-largest island in the country, Samar still remains off the radar for most travelers. The town of Marabut in Samar province has recovered its rugged beauty three years after the wrath of Typhoon Haiyan. While its sand may not be as white as the country's premier beaches, Caluwayan Beach still wows visitors with its karst landscape and jagged offshore islands that are reminiscent of northern Palawan.

3. Tayandak Beach

Brgy. Dumangas Nuevo, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat

Besides its geographical isolation, a history of ethnic unrest has prevented travelers from discovering the pristine coastline of Kalamansig in southern Mindanao. That's likely to change now that peace has recently been restored in the area. Of the series of mainland beach coves facing the Celebes Sea, Tayandak Beach is the most beautiful with its fine white sand and palm trees. This west-facing coast also has spectacular sunsets and serves as a jump-off point to even more stunning beaches and snorkeling sites on Balet Island.

4. Balinghai Beach

Brgy. Yapak, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan

A "secret beach" in Boracay? Located just south of Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa is the small turquoise cove of Balinghai Beach Resort, sheltered from the rest of this touristy island by limestone rocks. Accessed by a steep path down a limestone wall, this hidden corner has pockets of white sand that offer that sought-after privacy and tranquility away from the crowded shores of the island's more popular beaches.

5. Hermit's Cove (Kantabogon Cove)

Brgy. Kantabogon, Aloguinsan, Cebu

Flanked by limestone headlands, Hermit's Cove is a hidden crescent of coralline beach in the little-known town of Aloguinsan along the mid-western coast of Cebu island. The beach was named after a hermit who had lived on this once-isolated beach. Now Hermit's Cove can be reached via a wooden stairway built along the southern cliff. With the tranquil atmosphere of a sleepy fishing village, it's a perfect place for pitching a tent, and the tidal flats that stretch away to the depths of the Tanon Strait offer great snorkeling along its coral walls.

6. Nagtabon Beach

Brgy. Bacungan, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan

Veer away from the droves of tourists that flock to Honda Bay and take a motorbike instead to Nagtabon Beach along the western cost of Puerto Princesa City. Set against lush mountain ranges, this broad stretch of cream-colored sand offers dramatic sunsets over the West Philippine Sea, skim-boarding along its shallows, and even surfing on moderate swells between the months of October and February.

7. Dicotcotan Beach

Brgy. San Isidro, Palanan, Isabela

Sandwiched by the Sierra Madre mountain range and the rough fringes of the Pacific Ocean, coastal Isabela is cut off from the rest of Luzon, making it one of the last frontiers of the archipelago. The Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park contains not only the country's largest rainforest but extends to virgin shorelines like the 3km Dicotcotan Beach, which rewards the intrepid travelers who make the long and arduous journey to get there.

8. Anguib Beach

Brgy. San Vicente, Santa Ana, Cagayan

Carved along a thumb-shaped peninsula on the north-eastern corner of Luzon island, Anguib Beach is a deserted crescent white sand with pine-like casuarina trees and glorious sunsets over the Babuyan Channel. After the long drive from Tuguegarao City, it's a perfect spot for making like a willing castaway, setting up camp on soft sands and falling asleep under the sparkling night sky. Palaui Island is a protected nature reserve nearby that offers a lot of great hiking and birdwatching.

A Road Trip for the Discerning

On the morning of December 2nd, despite unresolved conflicts, I drove out 500km to the Ilocos province with a reconnected friend for a pre-planned birthday trip, my birthday trip. I was originally planning to take the bus alone to La Union and to meditate amidst the crashing waves and would-be surfers. But a random chat message wiped away all those plans and I'm more than thankful that it did.

She picked me up a little bit later than planned, hungry for anything to eat and flustered over her must-brings. We asked how each one was doing and very quickly found out that this was going to be no ordinary road trip but a road trip with a purpose -- a road trip for the discerning (and the romantically problematic). While she was discerning whether she is ready to chase after and to commit to a missed opportunity, I was discerning whether it's still worth it to keep holding on to something I cannot fully commit to. There was the question of commitment for both of us, albeit with different circumstances and implications. Although this was never the intention of the trip, it became the central theme, in between philosophical wanderings and natural wonders.

This car has been through a few close encounters, up and down in the mountains, and left and right on sharp turns, but never broke down on us, quite unlike our unsound relationships.

Our first stop was Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is a city born within a museum. I've walked along Calle Crisologo a couple of times before and was unfairly unenthusiastic to subscribe to anything touristy. But wifey* soon expressed her frustration so we agreed for a 1-hour tricycle tour. The driver took us to (1) Baluarte which is the unnatural home to some African animals and a yellow submarine; (2) Hidden Garden which is a private home surrounded by a well-maintained garden and opened to the public for dining and plants-seeing; (3) the Quirino Museum where I unearthed in me an interest for museum stories and displays; and, (4) the Crisologo Museum, which is wholly dedicated to Cong. Floro Crisologo and blatantly asks for donation to maintain an unimpressive collection.

The Bantay Bell Tower stands just outside the city of Vigan, in the municipality of Bantay, and offers a 360-degree view of the region, spanning from mountain to coast. It was our last stop in Vigan before driving onwards to Laoag and then Pagudpud

The sun has long set when we arrived at Pagudpud. We were within range of the windmills when I noticed how dark the sky was and how bright the stars were shining down on us. We decided to stop the car then and there, in the middle of an empty road and with only our car lights to indicate our presence, to marvel at the universe above us. The whole sky was littered with tiny spotlights and illuminated gas clouds while a soft, cold wind constantly blew on our faces. It felt magical and at the same time frightening -- not because I felt small and insignificant compared to those celestials, but because it was pitch black and I felt paranoid that someone or something would come out of nowhere and attack us. Nonetheless, nothing did and it will be one of those life experiences I'll forever dream of.

It was by this road where we stopped the previous night to gaze at the universe. I could hear the turbines spinning with the wind and see the red lights blinking from the turbine heads then but I didn't realize there were this many.

The next morning, we woke up to a failed attempt to catch the sunrise. The skies were already lit and the orange orb which is the sun was already above the horizon. We started the day early anyway, walking along the shore and watching the rest of the town wake up. We soon found a spot for breakfast where wifey introduced me to her initiative against sachets and where some local dogs patiently waited for our food scraps. All the while, thick dark clouds heavy with rain silently moved in and threatened to make the day colder than desired. Nevertheless, wifey took a dip, taunting the surging water to pull her in and discreetly swimming too close to an unknowing group of fellow vacationers. I preferred to hang back under what little shade I could find and enjoyed watching the wind make everything dance to its will.

Not the highlight of Maira-ira beach, this area of dead reefs and dried up seaweeds was where I watched the sunrise from almost two years ago on a Chinese New Year rush to a trip up north. It was the first of my solo backpacking travels and it was filled with too many doubts and fears.

It was again night time when we arrived at La Union, our final destination. The hostel was empty and we were starving so we took off to look for dinner. Under a strict budget, we had to make two rounds of the restaurant options before settling for the popular Greek restaurant which was adorned with male and female attendants in Greek-inspired outfits. We shared one yogurt shake, a serving of Tzatziki, and a chicken souvlaki to indulge on our only expensive meal for the trip. With still no potential new friends back at the hostel, we attempted to camp out at the beach but eventually retreated due to unseen insects snacking on us. A little past midnight, I woke her up from her hammock and awkwardly whispered, "ui batiin mo ako :D", to which she responded with a warm hug.

On the way back south, wifey spotted a ruin by the beach and despite my many objections, she stopped the car and hastily went down. We entered the abandoned skeletal building and stopped at this boulder fence to watch the waves crash and some goats graze.

The following day was much more social. The morning brought us Ivy, a solo traveller who frequently and impulsively goes on weekend trips, typically with strangers or with friends made during her trips. Mid-day brought us "Kuya-Girl", a local surfer who looks, speaks,and moves like a female but persistently claims to be a male. Post-lunch brought us Jane and Carlos, an ex-couple whose relationships are ending or have recently ended and who are currently discerning whether they want to get back together or not. Jane is a self-confessed bum who still depends on parental support while trying to learn Japanese and Carlos is a freelance architect with the typical boy-next-door look and a good-guy vibe. Coffee time brought us Rennel, a freelance photographer who has been conistently going back to La Union and is open to residing in the area but cannot yet find a suitable residence. And lastly, the evening brought us Emma, a British backpacker who just came from the Mountain Province and is planning to pursue post-grad studies for a certain philanthropic specialization I cannot remember after her travels.

We got up early the next morning for a guided tour to Tangadan Falls with the hostel people. It was an unfairly discounted deal that was still too expensive for our daily budget but it was our last day and a last chance to get to know other people. Unfortunately, we were bundled up with (1) a cliquish group of weekend warriors who kept complaining how challenging it was to walk on a mostly flat trail; (2) a duo of female cousins who also complained but only intermittently and could have been potential acquaintances but were more comfortable talking between them; and (3) Ivy who never complained and whom we've already met but didn't seem interested to converse with us. While wifey ended up with an intensive bonding session with kuya tour guide, I enjoyed being back on the trail, swinging from tree trunks and spotting the best footholds. After the tour, we were craving for food and invited Ivy and the cousins to have lunch at a carinderia to which they disappointingly declined.

It was drizzling and the water was cold but all of us swam in and went under the curtain of falling water. Wifey and I found goggles among our group and did freediving, which I found difficult because I was shivering and a bit terrifying because I am scared of fresh water pools.

Shortly before sunset, we were back on the road -- back to Manila and with Ivy in tow. We offered her to rideshare the morning we met her to save on expenses and for an extended bonding session. Unfortunately, she seemed more interested with her news feed than with conversation with us. I won't blame her. She wasn't aboard the road-trip-for-the-discerning train.

Throughout the whole trip, whether we be driving, eating, preparing for bed, preparing to leave, strolling, watching something, or doing nothing, wifey and I talked about love and relationships. It was mostly philosophical and theoretical. Like "relationships have a 100% probability for failure because individuals will always have differing wants and conflicting interests. So for it to have the slightest probability for success, you should give your 100%." But these aside, we also talked about random stuff like cat-calls, tourists versus travellers, Chinese history, waving competitions, etc.

I learned a lot during that trip. We weren't able to end it with concrete answers to our discernings. But maybe we came out better equipped to find those answers ourselves.

Batanes Travel Guide

This guide covers only Batan Island and Sabtang Island as I have yet to visit Itbayat Island, the third and least accessible inhabited island in the Batanes Group of Islands.

The Batanes Group of Islands

What to Know

Physical Location
The Batanes Group of Islands is made up of 10 islands scattered throughout the Luzon strait. It is at the northernmost tip of the Philippine archipelago and is actually nearer to Taiwan than to mainland Luzon. 

Orientation
Batanes is the smallest province in the Philippines in terms of land area and population. Among its 10 islands, only 3 are inhabited, namely Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat.

Batan has 4 municipalities namely Basco, Mahatao, Ivana, and Uyugan. Basco, the capital, serves as the gateway to the rest of the region. Its town center is lined with numerous grocery stores, talipapa's (temporary wet markets), bicycles/motorcycles, and ukay-ukay's (thrift shops) in no predictable order. Most of the roads look the same and the locals rely on the number of intersections instead of on street names when giving directions (i.e. turn left at the 5th intersection vs. turn left at Amboy St.) Abad St. is the main road traversing the whole length of the town and could be used as an anchor point when navigating.

Sabtang and Itbayat are both island-municipalities. Sabtang has 6 barangays namely Sinakan, Savidug, Chavayan, and the less-visited Sumnaga, Nakanmuan, and Malakdang. The island gives a better preview of traditional Ivatan living with its preserved stone houses and villages.

The people of Batanes are mostly of Ivatan ethnicity. There are, however, migrants, especially from the Cagayan and Ilocos, who have learned to speak the local language and have identified themselves as Ivatan too.

Communication
Cellphone signals for Smart and Globe are available in all municipalities except in barangays Itbud and Imnajbu in Batan and Nakanmuan, Sumnaga, and Chavayan in Sabtang. Wifi is available in some hotels and homestays although no more new internet applications are allowed for technical limitations. Thus, new establishments may most likely not be able to provide internet.

Transportation
The main mode of transportation in the region is by bicycle or motorcycle. Four-wheeled vehicles, except for tour vans, are uncommon which is just because of the narrow roads and high fuel prices. Public transport is rare since most of the locals have their own two-wheels. However, there is still the BATODA (Basco Tricyle Operators and Drivers' Association) and the MATODA (Mahatao Tricyle Operators and Drivers' Association) when necessary. But unlike in other regions, they don't roam the roads in search of passengers but park themselves at the terminal and wait for a text or call.

Weather
Because Batanes is basically out at the open sea, weather conditions can be unpredictable -- a sunny day today does not mean there won't be a storm tomorrow. Strong winds and rainshowers, however, should always be expected.

Electricity
When winds get too strong, power disruptions may occur. At other nights, the power station stages a rotating brown-out in order to accommodate the whole island. But disregarding this, most of the streets are lighted, albeit dimly. Nevertheless, a flashlight would be handy and more comfortable.

Accommodation
Most accommodation options are homestays although hotels are also in business. Traditionally, homestays are rooms of local homes that have been made available for guests. These options are thus more homey, basic and inexpensive. The homeowers themselves cater to the needs of the guests which may or may not be an advantage. In Batanes though, almost everyone in the tourism business were required to attend a hospitality seminar.

Security
Crime rate in the region is basically zero. No one touches things they don't own and there have been stories of wallets and possessions being lost and found exactly where they were left.


Where to Go

Batan Island
Batan Island is the largest among the islands and is best enjoyed in two days. It is usually divided into North Batan and South Batan, although North Batan really just covers Basco.

Naidi Hills
The Naidi Hills is a mere 15 mins away from Basco town. Here, you will find the Basco Lighthouse and the Bunker's Cafe, as well as a number of grazing cows and "cow compost". In the morning, climb up the lighthouse for a view of Basco town, its rolling hills, and of towering Mt. Iraya and then come back by 6pm just in time to marvel at the sunset and to eat at Bunker's Cafe. The Cafe opens from 6pm onwards since the owner works until 5pm at the local health center(?) and attends to her cafe only after.

Bunker's Cafe at Naidi Hills

Valugan Boulder Beach
While waiting for the sunset, kill time at Valugan Boulder Beach which is east of Basco town. Aptly named, the whole length of the shore is made up of varying sizes of boulders. Have fun skipping across the boulders, attempting rock balancing, or challenging the waves.

Valugan Boulder Beach

Racuh a Payaman aka Marlboro Country
This might be what most people are excited about Batanes for -- the New Zealand-esque landscape with its rolling hills and grazing cattle that make you forget you're still in the Philippines. Getting to the site is mostly uphill and could be a thrilling (or nauseous) ride.

During our visit, there was a looming storm and the wind was blowing like crazy. It blew from all directions, mixing with rain, and threatened to blow us and our cameras away. With the sun peaking from behind dark clouds, making a divide between light and dark, the experience could even be considered spiritual by some. It was literally mind-blowing.

Facing a looming storm at Marlboro Country

Alapad Hill
Referring more to a rock formation than to a hill, Alapad Hill itself doesn't really offer much to a non-rock-enthusiast. With its sharp curves, rigid lines, whitish stone, and concealed caves, the rock is indeed pretty. But what lies behind that large formation is what's really marvelous. It stands at a corner with a 270-degree view of two varying shores, one with rock-smashing towering waves and the other with gentler come-hither waters.

As with our "Marlboro Country" experience, our Alapad Hill experience was also extreme. We were blown away by the same raging wind except that we were on a cliff and riding on a bike.

Other Batan destinations include:

• Diura Fishing Village
• Itbud Village
• Songsong Ruins
• Chana'tuan Fields in Uyugan
• The house of Dakay and the Honesty Coffee Shop in Ivana
• Mahatao Boat Shelter
• Chawa View Deck halfway going to Mahatao
• Dipnaysupuan Japanese Tunnel near the PAGASA Radar Station

Sabtang Island

Because public transportation is basically inexistent in this island, visits would be part of a chartered tricycle tour. This would normally include only half of the island because of the fixed boat schedule; although the full-island tour would still be doable but with minimal "awe" time.

To get to Sabtang, you can either charter a van, a tricycle, or a motorcycle (rare) to San Vicente Port in Ivana. If not, you can catch the single-trip 6am jeep for a cheap P27 fare. Ask at Amboy's along Amboy St. to confirm jeep schedule and jeep route although waiting at Abad St. would be a good bet. The jeep would most likely stop at San Vicente Port to drop off goods to be ferried to Sabtang Island. If there is time to kill before the boat departs, take advantage of the public restroom just in front of San Vicente Church or, even better, walk to Honesty Coffee Shop just beside the port. Take note that boat trips to Sabtang are few and scheduled. The first boat leaves at 7am from Ivana and returns by 2pm from Sinakan. Be sure to catch these times.

Popular destinations at Sabtang include the ones listed below. These are the towns nearest Sinakan where the port is, although the tour can also be modified to include the farther towns on request (there is supposedly a "seahorse" rock formation in Malakdang). This is more recommended for an overnight trip though so as not to sacrifice "awe" time.

• Savidug Vernacular Houses
• Chavayan Traditional Ivatan Village
• Sabtang Weaver's Association
• Nakabuang Beach

A row of Vernacular Houses in Savidug

Entrance to Chavayan Traditional Ivatan Village

Lady from the Sabtang Weaver's Association

Creamy sand at Nakabuang Beach

What to Do

Do like the locals and pedal your way around town

As already mentioned, bikes and motorbikes are the most popular methods of transportation. But since renting a motorbike is more expensive and (ideally) requires a license, why not sweat it out on a bike instead? This was what we did and although pushing your bike up steep hills was lame, the ride down was definitely exhilirating, especially if you're riding cliff-side. Plus, this mode allowed more freedom and contact with the surroundings than sitting in an AC van.

Go to Amboy's along Amboy St. for a wide selection of bikes or to Crisan's along Dita St. for newer bikes. (~P250/day)

Watch the sun set from Naidi Hills while munching

The hills directly face west offering a sunset view framed by hills, cattle and open water. Be there by 6pm the latest and witness the sun slowly disappear on the horizon as it emits varying shades of orange until darkness overtakes. Bring snacks and picnic while watching the show but don't forget to be wary of jealous/excited cows that "sing" a capella to the spectacle.

Pick a hill and run your heart out

Tired of running along paved roads and tiled floors? Do it through grasslands for a change. I promise, you'll love the difference.

What to Eat
Finding a place to dine out at is a bit challenging. Restaurants are few and scattered while canteens are difficult to spot. Some budget options include the following:

Chili's
Abad St. cor Cantor St.
Chili's is a small corner canteen which supposedly serves "chilified" meals. There's a tiny talipapa outside almost camouflages the canteen But look for the Chili's signage and don't be afraid to peek inside that screen door to inquire what is being served.

SDC Canteen
National Rd., in front of Basco Municipal Hall, behind St. Dominic College
Asking a local for a canteen nearby, they would always point you to SDC Canteen which is actually a bit outside the town center. It is a real canteen though -- spacious, equipped with a TV, and manned by cafeteria ladies.

Dietician's Cafe
National Rd., near the Rural Health Unit
Owned by a dietician, this tiny cafe sits around 6 people, serves dietician-approved meals, and keeps utensils and plates sanitized. They open early, around 8am, and their food offerings vary throughout the day.

Hiro's Cafe
Abad St. cor. Abuyo St.
Their original store was closed out because of the recent typhoon damage and they were using a mixed-use home-office as base. Although they didn't have signage for the canteen, they still accommodate food orders on request, albeit only for take-out. They serve inexpensive and great Ivatan food.

6 to 8 Panciteria
National Rd., near Ivatan Lodge
Serving more than just pancit, 6 to 8 is likely only open from 6am to 8pm. Order a heaping size of Pancit Batil Patong for a quick merienda fix.

Aside from lobster, Ivatans no longer consume traditional food fare on a normal basis. Most places, canteens especially, offer the usual Filipino selections. For Ivatan delicacies, head over to Ivatan Pension House and be ready to splurge on Coconut Crabs, Uvud Balls, Lobster, Uve Chips, and Lumpiang Dibang.

Note: Coconut crabs are illegal to eat outside of Batanes because of their decreasing population. They are said to taste just like the normal crabs except for a slight hint of coconut due to their diet. I personally don't think that the slight hint of difference in taste -- which you may not even notice -- is worth further endangering an endangered specie. Plus, they look freaky and hairy.

The Hardworking Traveller is a collection of travel guides and travel accounts that aim to help the DIY tourist with travel planning. The author is a generation-y kid struggling between her reality of needing a corporate job and her dream of becoming a hermit.

For questions, reactions and itinerary requests, please contact her here. She will also gladly customize a trip for you in exchange for coffee (or milk tea).

Helpless at Alapad Hill

It had been 20kms of sloping roads since we first started our biking trip. Our breakfast of soft rice with chicken bits had long come and gone. And although there were a number of detours and rest stops along the way, fatigue has already started creeping in.

We just came down from Racuh a Payaman and were making our way to Songsong. I was eyeing a sharp mountain curve and was strongly pedaling my way to it through a manageable gust. No problem. But as I came closer and closer, I found it harder and harder to keep my bike under control. And as soon as I could see to the other side, I was forced to dismount and cling to a wall of rock for dear life.

The mountain wind mixing with the sea wind was creating a strong breeze that was pushing my bike cliff-ward. I knew I was still a safe distance away but biking was a new skill and the wind felt determined. My courage eventually broke and I got off almost as soon as it did. Overlyanxiousthoughcapablebritpino must have felt the same because she almost jumped from her bike and similarly stuck to the wall beside me. (Or maybe she sensed my broken courage and ran to my comfort).

It was an overwhelming experience. I couldn't move. I couldn't think. I felt helpless against the roaring wind. It was one strong gust after another. And although our rocky sanctuary provided little to no protection at all, we kept clinging to it for lack of alternatives and for fear of being blown off cliff.

Upon regaining some composure,I started looking around for a better shelter and realized how magnificently beautiful our unmoved salvation was. It was a sculptured rock marking the corner of a hill and overlooking a sea of crashing waves and fortified rock formations. It appeared to be made of sedimentary layers which slanted to the sea at a 45-degree angle and glowed with the morning sun. There were small crevices and a narrow ledge leading to them that I would have wanted to explore if not for our current dilemma.

As we clung to our rock, weighing our courage against the strong wind, three motorcycles breezily drove thru our challenge spot. They glanced at us while we lookingly implored for help. But I guess, even with our knees almost to the ground and bodies bent over forward in attempt to resist the wind, we weren't convincing enough. (Or maybe they also couldn't afford to stop and lose their momentum against it.)

Realizing that we need to get through our dilemma on our own, we hung on until the gust became manageable enough. I'm not sure whether it indeed mellowed down or we became more determined but we mounted our bikes and pedaled through without injury.

It only took two pedals to go around the curve and away from the relentless wind. But those two pedals definitely demanded a lot of courage and physical strength.

Later on down at Ivana, we learned that the glorious rock we desperately clung to was the Alapad Hill Rock Formation that was in our itinerary. I thought we missed it but it turned out we shared a very intimate moment with it.

For obvious reasons,  we didn't have a picture at the spot so I grabbed this from Pinasmuna.com. The road definitely looks harmless and I'm sure it is on a clear day. The wind was crazy during our visit, hence the struggle, which was also a lucky incident for me.

Alapad Hill Formation. Sharp corner ahead.

Visayas Traverse: Sugar Beach, Sipalay

Day3: Sugar Beach, Sipalay

Date of Travel: 15 October 2013

People using woodeng planks and boulders to get to the boat

From Guimaras, we headed straight to Negros Occidental via the Cabano-Bago route. When the boat arrived, the water was low and the existing docking bridge wasn't usable. The boatmen tried to improvise by laying down wooden planks across boulders and by using themselves as human hand rails so that the passengers won't get wet. It was getting late so the people ended up crossing the water to the boat without a proper system yet. And even thought the task was quite challenging -- waves rolling under your feet, no proper footing for balance, hand-carried luggage -- I didn't see anyone fall into the water. Some didn't even get their feet wet.

A view of endless rice paddies on the way

Going to Sugar Beach, we took the Montilla route and rode a tricycle from the high way to the small river. The road went through rice paddies backed up by small mountains and over a river lined with Mangroves. It was a refreshing scenery.

Sugar beach's western orientation makes for perfect sunsets

Sugar beach directly faces West giving it unobstructed views of the sunset every day. I think this is the best sunset I've seen so far. Head to http://halfwhiteboy.blogspot.com/2012/04/sunsets-at-sugar-beach.html for better pictures.

Where We Stayed

Driftwood Village Resort

This was a long walk from the small river on the other side. I think this was the 5th resort you'll pass by and if you're really tired and hungry from a long trip (like us), you might regret making a reservation here. In which case, make a reservation in the pricier Takatuka Lodge instead, the first resort along the beach.

Anyway, true to its name, the place really looks like a village. Several nipa huts are strategically positioned throughout the property and serve different purposes. There are nipa huts for dining, for entertainment, for accommodations, for the bathroom, for the receiving area, etc. It felt like walking around in a traditional Filipino village.

What I like most about this resort are their hammocks. They have one outside every room and a few more on the beach. Their beach hammocks are not the net-type ones and so don't leave criss-cross marks on you after a good nap. We took a nap in one under the stars and the moon.

Room: P450

Inclusions: Fan room, shared bath, hammock

Tip: Bring an off! lotion to protect from the mosquitoes

How We Did It

Guimaras Island to Negros Occidental:

There are two ways to get from Guimaras to Negros. The first one, the more popular one, is via Iloilo wherein you ride the short boat-ride back to Iloilo city from Jordan and then get on a bigger boat to Bacolod City. To me, this takes more time, effort and money and so we went for the less popular one wherein we went to the other side of the island, Cabano, and got on a 45-min boat ride to Bago City (a few kilometers south of Bacolod City). Aside from this route being non-touristy, it also allowed us to see more of the island.

From the town center of Jordan, there is a shuttle van that goes to Cabano. However, waiting time and travel time is longer because they have to fill the van. Fortunately, we were able to deal with a tricycle driver to take us to Cabano for P200 (this would normally be P300-P400).

At Bago City, follow the crowd and get on one of the tricycles headed for the highway. If you're heading back to Bacolod City, cross the road. Otherwise, stay on your side of the road.

Tricycle to Cabano (1hr): P200/trip

Boat to Bago (45min): P60/person

*earliest trip at 10:00

Tricycle to Highway(20min): P20/person

Bago City to Sugar Beach:

From Bago City, wait for a Hinoba-an bus along the national highway. Tell the driver that you're getting off at Montilla, around 3kms before you arrive at Sipalay town proper. Prepare for a long and uncomfortable bus ride as a lot of people are usually headed to Sipalay.

At Montilla, get on a tricycle that will take you to the river near Sugar Beach in Bgy. Nauhang. Just tell them that you're headed to sugar beach. Our tricycle driver then was Sonny SMART 09214966158. He speaks good Tagalog and knows the area well. He was also honest enough to give me back my P100 when I was giving him P200.

At the river, get on a small paddle boat that will take you across. It is really just a small river but it's too deep to wade through or even swim through.

After the river, you will find yourself in a small village. Walk to your right and take the rightmost fork into the forest. You're basically going around a big boulder and you can exit to the beach through the leftmost fork.

Bus to Montilla (4.5hrs): P157/person

Tricycle to river (30mins): P100/trip

Boat to get across (5mins): P10-20/person

Bago City to Sugar Beach via Sipalay:

If the above route sounds too much of an effort, and the view of rice paddies is not inspiring enough, you can go via the port in Sipalay for a much easier, albeit less scenic, route.

Instead of getting of at Montilla, get off at Sipalay city and head to Driftwood Village Restaurant. The resort has their own outrigger boat which you can rent to get to Sugar Beach. This has to be pre-arranged though. Other resorts also have their own boats and you can contact them to arrange for a pick up at Sipalay.

The Hardworking Traveller is a collection of travel guides and travel accounts that aim to help the DIY tourist with travel planning. The author is a generation-y kid struggling between her reality of needing a corporate job and her dream of becoming a hermit.

For questions, reactions and itinerary requests, please contact her here. She will also gladly customize a trip for you in exchange for coffee (or milk tea).

Visayas Traverse: Guimaras Island

Day2: Guimaras Island

Date of Travel: 14 October 2013

All geared up!

For a different kind of Guimaras experience, we decided to do a mountain bike tour. We would be visiting a lot of other beaches so I'm not really keen on seeing Guimaras ones plus, I heard that Guimaras is a great destination for mountain biking. We actually have no experience in the sport and were very unfit on the day but, oh well.

Road lined with endless Mango trees

Oro Verde owns the largest mango plantation in the island. This road was in front of their main gate. Because it wasn't mango season, we didn't see a lot of mangoes but the ones we had in the island were still top quality.
According to our guide, only Guimaras mangoes are allowed for export. And those from other places are consumed and traded locally.

A wild caterpillar appears!

While resting after a "challenging" bike trail, I saw a big caterpillar hanging just beside us. It was as green as grass and as large as a swollen finger. That was one of the few times I actually saw a wildlife along the trail.

Sadsad Falls

After powering through 10kms of uphill and downhill biking, our guide led us to a final trail to Sadsad falls. It was steep so we only rode our bikes half of the way and trekked the other half. The trail reminded me of Tarak and Maculot and I was happily hopping through the stones and steps.

The falls itself was worth the long trip. We took a refreshing dip in the pool and sat beneath the falls for a free water massage. I am usually afraid to swim in natural pools because I am afraid of what's underneath and of not being able to float. But I guess I was able to lighten up after the first swim.

How We Did It

I contacted the Guimaras Tourism Office to ask for someone who offers mountain bike tours. They only had one contact, Sir Tommy Martir. I gave him a call and we settled on an arrangement. A few days before our trip, I contacted him again to confirm our deal. He agreed to meet us at the Hoskyn Port and also offered food and accommodations.

Guimaras Tourism Office: PHONE (033) 581 2021

Tommy Martir: GLOBE 0927 553 7575

Bike Rental: P500

Guide Fee: P500

Room: P500

Food: P100

Promotion 

Mr. Martir is a passionate bicycle enthusiast. He has been featured in various articles and write-ups including Lonely Planet. He is an excellent tour guide who definitely knows what he's doing. He knows how to keep his guests entertained and how to make the best out of their visit.

As he is now becoming more renowned as a biking tour guide, he is looking for fellow bicycle enthusiasts who are as passionate as him to help in his business. Benefits include meeting and hanging out with male and female tourists from all over the world, travelling with pay, and living out your passion.

Bonus Story

We were in Guimaras when the recent Bohol earthquake happened. I was packing up my things while he was brushing his teeth when I felt the ground moving. I stayed still to make sure what it was and then rushed to his side and held his hand just because. We stood still and waited around 5 seconds until the movements stopped.

That was the first among many of our earthquake encounters in Visayas. It wasn't that strong and it didn't feel frightening. My brain said I should be scared because an earthquake is supposed to be dangerous but I didn't feel any imminent danger at all. It was amusing, actually -- an extraordinary experience.

The Hardworking Traveller is a collection of travel guides and travel accounts that aim to help the DIY tourist with travel planning. The author is a generation-y kid struggling between her reality of needing a corporate job and her dream of becoming a hermit.

For questions, reactions and itinerary requests, please contact her here. She will also gladly customize a trip for you in exchange for coffee (or milk tea).

Visayas Traverse: Iloilo City

Day1: Iloilo City

Date of Travel: 13 October 2013

Super Special Batchoy from Ted's Old Timer

 We started our trip with a batchoy feast by heading to the La Paz Public Market. I was looking to sample three brands but we didn't find Netong's so we just had Ted's and Deco's. Both offered slightly different tastes -- Ted's with better prepared noodles and Deco's with a more flavorful soup. The toppings differ whether you choose "special", "super special", or "extra super".

A "KEEP LEFT" sign at the Iloilo Coliseum

 In Jaro, we headed to the Iloilo Coliseum to try to watch a live cockfight. Unfortunately, tickets were at P400/person -- a hefty price for something we're not fond of. We did get to watch local blade-less cockfight in Guimaras the next day though.

St. Anne Parish in Molo District

 After dropping our bags at Lola Corazon Pension House, we headed to Molo to see the feminist church and get some Pancit Molo.

Sunset from Fort San Pedro

An hour before sunset, we rode the wrong jeep and found ourselves heading back to the Town Proper. We were supposed to go to Baybay before dark for some talaba but rerouted instead to Fort San Pedro for the sunset. A lot of locals were hanging out by the area and the orange sky coupled with the crashing of the waves was really pretty.

Where we Stayed

Lola Corazon Pension House

This is the best value accommodation I have experienced so far. For P550 we got a spacious room with a spacious bathroom, cable TV, AC, closet, tables, and chairs. The pension house also has a spacious receiving and dining area. The only cons I can think of (which are not much of a big deal) are the 11pm curfew and the location -- only one multicab route passes by the area which is a short walking distance from General Luna St.
SMART 0999 880 1229
PHONE (033) 300 6466

How We Did It

Iloilo Airport to La Paz Public Market:

From the Iloilo International Airport, we rode a shuttle to SM City Iloilo (P50). We followed the crowd to the main public entrance of the mall where we took a multicab to Iloilo Town Proper. Almost all routes go through the town proper but just ask to be sure. At the town proper, we transferred to a La Paz multicab and enjoyed the ride until we got to the La Paz Public Market. The market is very easy to spot.

La Paz Public Market to Jaro Cathedral:

From outside the market, we hailed a multicab to Jaro. There are a lot of multicabs passing by so be careful.

Jaro Cathedral to Iloilo Coliseum:

The road encircling the Graciano Lopez Jaena Park is a one-way road so we were not sure which one is headed back to the town proper and which one isn't. We tried asking but people kept giving us different directions. We've been crossing the park a number of times already so we just decided to walk a few blocks until the end of the one-way road. We went to the direction of Biscocho House, which can be seen from the park, and walked a few meters until we could get on a Jaro-CPU multicab to the Iloilo Coliseum.

Iloilo Coliseum to Calle Real:

We hailed a multicab outside the Iloilo Coliseum and got off when we saw the SOCORRO bldg on our right. This is Calle Real. You can also choose to wait for Roberto's Siopao on the right side of the road before getting off.

Iloilo Town Proper to Fort San Pedro:

Ride a Jaro-CPU multicab. Get off when you see a clear view of the sunset.

Iloilo Town Proper to Breakthrough:

At the Iloilo Town Proper, look for the multicabs that go to Arevalo(P10). They have a terminal near one of the department stores. Just ask around. You might pass by Merci which sells just-cooked Piaya along the streets.

Iloilo Town Proper to Port(Parola):

Get on a Jaro-CPU multicab until you see the outrigger boats loading passengers along Muelle Loney St. If there is not a lot of passengers, the multicab might drop you off just after Fort San Pedro. Don't be annoyed or discouraged and enjoy the short walk. You'll pass by the Port Terminal of the big Superferry ships and the terminal for multicabs.

The Hardworking Traveller is a collection of travel guides and travel accounts that aim to help the DIY tourist with travel planning. The author is a generation-y kid struggling between her reality of needing a corporate job and her dream of becoming a hermit.

For questions, reactions and itinerary requests, please contact her here. She will also gladly customize a trip for you in exchange for coffee (or milk tea).

Visayas Traverse: Itinerary

Above is the original itinerary map that we will follow. This post will be about the places that we will visit and the activities that we intend to do there.

Iloilo City: Food Trip

Since Iloilo City is the birthplace of a lot of Filipino comfort food, this day is solely going to be about food.

We will begin our day with a "battle of La Paz Batchoy" for breakfast at the La Paz Public Market where we will be hopping from one Batchoy stall to another. Target Batchoy stalls are Ted's Old Timer, Deco's Original, and Netong's. Afterwards, we will head to Jaro district to munch on biscocho while looking at century-old ancestral houses. Come lunch time, we will head to Molo district to hunt for Chicken Molo Soup, or maybe another batchoy. For merienda, we will head downtown along Calle Real in search of Roberto's Queen Siopao before heading to Fort San Pedro for a sunset watch and a quick break from eating. Lastly, we will go to Oton district, near the sea, for some much-craved Talaba (Oysters) in preparation for the night.

Guimaras Island: Mountain Bike Tour

Guimaras is a mere 15-minute boat ride from Iloilo. Because it is so near, locals don't see it as a separate island but as a normal commute destination. There are a lot who reside in Guimaras and go to Iloilo everyday for school or work. I think that's similar to commuting to Makati everyday, except easier and less a hassle.

Although Guimaras is most famous for its world-class mangoes and virgin beaches, I also read that it is a mountain biker's haven for its scenic roads, hilly slopes, and lush routes . And since October isn't exactly Mango season and I know there are better beaches in Cebu or Bohol, and because I am a non-biker and a scaredy-cat, I decided that we have a biking tour instead of the usual tricycle tour and/or boat tour. The last statement may not make sense but I like challenging myself, as well as believing that I can actually conquer these challenges. I'm sure this one's going to be emotionally exciting and physically demanding. Stocking up on comfort food in Iloilo actually has a purpose.

Sipalay Beach: Sunset Beach

Sipalay is a small seaside town at the south-western tip of Negros Island. There really isn't much going on in this town and very few people know about it. However, those who do and who bother to cross rice paddies and a raging river are said to be rewarded with glorious and spectacular sunsets every dusk.

The sunset from Sugar Beach is that first-prize reward. I'm not a fan of sunsets and I can't see how it's romantic (yet) but I intend to explore that idea during this trip. Moreover, I am on a quest for the perfect, off-the-beaten-path, sunset beach and from what I heard, Sugar Beach should be a potential candidate.

Dumaguete City: Discover Scuba Diving

Dumaguete, where the famed Siliman University resides, is a University town teeming with laid-back college students, cheap student meals, and wide-ranging hang-out spots. Aside from this, it is also a good jump-off point for more adventurous trips either up in the mountain or down in the sea.

That being said, we didn't really have plans of trying out scuba diving here until I saw the diving rates from our hostel. It was P3,800 for 3 dives including all equipment and transportation and although this is way above our daily budget, I couldn't find any better package. Plus, it would include a dive at one of the most beautiful reefs in the Philippines. I rationalized that we could off-set the expense to other days instead of missing the opportunity.

Siquijor Island: Jumps and Fireflies

Siquijor is the infamous Philippine capital of witchcraft and mysticism. Every time I hear about it, there is always a Philippine mythical creature/monster attached such as an aswang or a kapre that I sometimes think the place is mythical itself. Although there is some truth to this -- there really is a gathering of witch doctors and healers deep in the province -- the strong proliferation of such stories also made the island a secret paradise for skeptics and nature lovers.

For starters, the island is encircled by virgin white sand beaches (a becoming standard for Philippine islands). Further inward are lush forests and waterfalls deep enough to jump in. And at night, it lights up with fireflies that would have been chased away by tourists and commercialization.

Bais City: Dolphin Watch

Bais City, located a little bit north of Dumaguete City, has been starting to gain popularity as a destination for dolphin and whale watching. It lies along Tanon Strait which is the natural migration path of whales and dolphins.

Because chartering a boat for just the two of us is both expensive and unexciting, we will make the detour to Bais City hoping we could hitch a ride with a bigger tour group for a dolphin and whale watching tour. If unlucky, we'll just have to try and spot one from the wharf or be content with mangroves and birds.

Moalboal Beach: Beach Party

According to Lonely Planet, when people say "Moalboal", they are actually referring to Panagsama Beach at the edge of Moalboal Municipality. Although its beach has been long gone and blown away by a typhoon, it remains a popular diving jump-off and beach destination, maybe because one can drink before/after a dip.

Because Panagsama Beach isn't exactly beach-bumming material (but it's sister White Beach is), we would go for the beach party scene and take a slight break from being an stingy and actually pay for something we don't need.

Carcar City: Lechon Lunch

The first time we went to Cebu, we were unprepared and ended up with two cold lechon meals, one at a random carinderia and one at an SM Foodcourt. Although these were still far better than a Manila one, it wasn't the lechon experience Adventurebuddy was expecting. It wasn't the Cebu Lechon Legend he heard about and it felt disatsifying.

So this time, I made preparations and did my research. I especially fixed our IT so that we could have lechon lunch at Carcar, where lechon was supposedly invented(?) and where they use a special lechon sauce that would put Mang Tomas to shame.

Malapascua Island: Island Walking Tour

Malapascua Island, located at the northern tip of Cebu Island, is a 4-hour bus ride from the capital. It is usually compared to its neighbor Bantayan Island for its diving spots and pristine beaches.

According to Lonely Planet, the island is small enough to be toured on foot in 3 hours. So aside from beach bumming, we plan to do just that. Public transportation is also not big so a walking tour instead of a tricycle tour might be more worth it.

Kalanggaman Island: Beach Camping

I once read about Kalanggaman Island in PinoyBoyJournals. He described what a struggle it was to get to the island and how all that was totally worth the serenity and solidarity. His pictures and tale simply amazed me and I bookmarked his page even though I had no idea what part of the Philippines he was talking about.

Planning our Visayas Itinerary, I kept reading about a nearby Kalanggaman Island that could be a side trip from Malapascua. I repeatedly ignored this information thinking that a side trip is out of our budget until I realized that THAT was the Kalanggaman Island I was amazed about. Unfortunately, when I revisited his blog, it was temporarily down, no one else retold the story of Kalanggaman Island like he did.

Anyway, Kalanggaman Island is just an island in between the islands of Cebu and Leyte. It has no accommodations nor electricity to offer but instead promises a powdery white-sand beach, two sandbars, perfect sunset and sunrise views, and most of all, an escape to life. We will return to basics and set-up camp beneath the palm trees while watching the waves and the sun go by.

Tacloban City: San Juanico Bridge

Before this trip, the only thing I knew about Leyte was the San Juanico Bridge. I didn't even know that Tacloban was its capital. And although I now know a little bit more, I decided to leave this one trip to adventure. I researched just about the bridge and will figure out the rest when we get there. Besides, we might have a local tour us around.

Bohol: Touristy Chocolate Hills and Panglao Island

I've been to Bohol before and although I'm absolutely game to do another adventure with the island's transportation, we figured it would be better to spend our last few days for an actual vacation. I didn't do much planning here either because our destinations are quite customary. We can easily rub elbows with other visitors at the Chocolate Hills and at Panglao Island.

Woooh! I can't wait to update my Lakbayan Map below after this trip.
4 days to go as of this writing!

Visayas Traverse: Overview

screenshot from Google Maps

Mission: Travel from West Visayas to East Visayas in a span of 2 weeks with a P1,000/day budget.

Date of Travel: 13-26 October 2013
Limitations: Backpacking style of travel (no private tours, no fancy hotels, only public transportation, only hand-carried luggage)

This October, Adventurebuddy and I are going on our most epic trip yet - a 2-week Visayas Traverse!. This trip marks a lot of firsts for both of us.

For starters, this is our first long-term travel (i.e. more than one weekend). It was originally just a weekend Iloilo trip but because I unexpectedly got out of regular employment, we decided to max out his semestral break and do a traverse to several destinations. Leyte and Samar wasn't on our original list but going all the way there seemed to be more convenient.

Second, this is the first time we are going to set a travel budget. Because the plan is to be out for at least 14 consecutive days, I figured we also needed to plan for the total cost of the trip. I set the budget at P1,000 per day per person which meant we had to be comfortable with the most basic accommodations to give way to food, transportation and activities. Surprisingly, I found rooms worth P400 for two persons with a double bed and fan. Whether these are decent enough, we have yet to find out.

Lastly, most of the places we're going to and the activities we're planning to do are definite firsts. Some examples would be Scuba Diving, looking out for dolphins, and knowing about Leyte and Samar. Basically every day of the trip is a first.

Here are the highlights of our trip for a better idea. I'm sure I'm going to conquer a lot of fears on this trip.

Travel Highlights:

- Food trip @ Iloilo City

- Mountain Bike Tour @ Guimaras Island

- Beach Sunset @ Sipalay

- Discover Scuba Diving @ Dumaguete City

- Firefly Watch @ Siquijor

- Dolphin Watch @ Bais City

- Beach Party @ Moalboal

- Lechon Lunch @ Carcar

- Island Walk Tour @ Malapascua

- Beach Camp @ Calanggaman Island

- San Juanico Bridge @ Tacloban City

- Chocolate Hills @ Carmen

- Beach Bumming @ Panglao Island

This is going to be my first post about this 2-week trip. Aside from being really excited for the trip, I also want to immortalize my thoughts and my experience.

What to do in Marikina

Date of Travel: 31 August 2013

I basically spend half of my weeks in Marikina and although I rarely go around, I have been to a lot of places that even real residents have never heard of. I've been wanting to make a food map about it but until then, I'll just write it all down here.

1. Interact with science for less at the Philippine Science Centrum.

This place is the "original Mind Museum", as I want to call it. It has similar exhibits as its BGC version but located in a smaller and simple space. As all museums, it is great for school field trips although adults could also definitely enjoy themselves here.

Location: E-com Bldg., Riverbanks Center

Admission Fee*:  Adult                               P120

                          Student

                                Private School           P120

                                Public School            P95

                          Children below 2y/o        FREE

                          Teacher with ID              FREE

                          Senior Citizen with ID     50% off on regular

Exhibit Hours: Mon - Sat 8am to 5pm

* Maximum of 1.5 hours per visit. Additional P60 for every hour thereafter. Reservation is required for group of 30 persons or more.

Check out their solar system mock-up

2. Visit the World's Largest Pair of Shoes*

Being the shoe capital of a country where anything is made super-sized just for heck of it, Marikina houses the world's largest pair of shoes, size 753 to be exact. I don't know how many feet could fit into that thing but it's amazing that the pair is still and intact and well-maintained (it was made in 2002).

Unfortunately, its record has recently been snatched by Hong Kong 

"There was an old woman who lived in a shoe"
This must be that shoe

Location: Riverbanks Mall
Admission Fee: Free
Exhibit Hours: Mall hours
* Unfortunately, as of 12 April 2013, the record was transferred to Hong Kong for making a 6.40m shoe, according to http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records-1000/largest-shoe/.

3. Pass time at the Marikina Riverbanks

Although the Marikina River is known to overflow at least once every year, its banks is still one of the best places in Marikina to hang out and see some greens. On one side of the riverbanks  is a big amphitheater where people either sit on the grass or at the steps.

The amphitheater

What to do in Bacolod

Date of Travel: 23-24 February 2013

For me, Bacolod is one of those hidden gems that you need to spend more time with for you to appreciate. It is an underrated destination that better appeals to the more adventurous type for lack of the usual and established tourist spots. I've only been here once and it was one of my most appreciated trips (great food, few tourists, no traffic, lots of space, everything cheap). I don't know much about Bacolod yet but I'll update this entry as I discover more about this laidback city.

PS: This post would include nearby areas such as Talisay City and Silay City.

1. Get drunk on Chicken Inasal at Manukan Country.

Located in front of SM Bacolod, Manukan Country looks like a wet market ("palengke") for Chicken Inasal. Eateries sit side by side, occupying a long strip of open air stalls with varying decorations and customer traffic. Because all of them basically sell the same thing and a first-timer won't know the taste difference, you may base your preferences on the number of electric fans blowing inside or the amount of noise created by the customers. Once you've chosen an eatery and claimed a table, you may opt to eat with your hands not only to achieve the real experience of eating an Chicken Inasal but also because it's easier. Don't worry, sinks are usually available.

Budget: P100 per stick

How to get there: Ride a jeep to SM (P7) and get off just before you get there. You can stroll to SM after to burn out the Inasal).

Note: "Inasal" is actually synonymous to "barbeque".

2. Learn about the Sugar Capital at the Negros Museum.

Aside from portraits of past Governors and accounts of the Sugar Industry, the museum also houses non-Negros related collections such as Japanese dolls and artifacts and architectural displays. It also has an old train car at the back which was used to transport sugar cane harvests.

Budget: P60

How to get there: Ride a jeep to the Bacolod North Terminal and get off by the Provincial Hall. The museum is at the street behind it. If you don't mind walking, you can take a leisure walk from SM/Manukan Country.

3. Have a gourmet snack at the Negros Museum Cafe.

This little posh cafe is right beside the Negros Museum. There was no one when we visited and it looked like they were arranging an area for an event. The Cafe served gourmet pieces at close-to-Manila prices. Being the budget travellers that we are, we just took a quick look and left.

Budget: P150+

How to get there: From the museum exit, walk to your right and you'll quickly spot the cafe.

4. Pass time at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon.

If you want to see the locals in action, then you definitely have to be where the locals are. This park/lagoon which is just in front of the Provincial Capitol building is home to skateboarders and high school students. Some bring their picnic baskets, some their skateboards while some practice their dance routines or just watch other people do their thing. The place is grassy and benches are present.

5. Visit The Ruins.

Located in Talisay City, this destination is probably the most (or only) touristy destination around the city. Well-versed and well-practiced tour guides gleefully recite the history of the mansion to awed and amused guests. There were 3-5 guides around who take turns entertaining visitors and who say exactly the same things, including jokes. The area around the mansion is well-developed and well-maintained. It sits inside a manicured garden beside a small cafe-slash-souvenir shop. For added entertainment, you can play mini-golf at the back.

Budget: P60

How to get there: From the Bacolod North Terminal, walk back south to the Pepsi bottling plant, just under the fly-over. It's a short walk but be careful because it's at the side of the hi-way. In front of the bottling plant is a tricylce terminal. Ask for one that goes to The Ruins (P40). The site is inside several subdivisions so you might share the ride with a resident.

Note: They say that it's best to visit the mansion at sunset when the structure turns golden from the reflection of the sun.

6. Visit the Art District and have some more Chicken Inasal (or maybe a taste of art).

The Art District is where night life meets art. It is a developing area populated by restaurants (local and modern), bars, and art exhibits. If you want a more established and commercial Chicken Inasal taste, there's a Chicken House branch here you can go to. Otherwise, look for an artsy place and actually let the place live up to its name.

Budget: P100 (Chicken House)

How to get there: The site is just along Lacson St. so you can basically ride any jeep from the North Terminal. The closest district though would be Mandalagan. Watch out for Shell and Convergys when you get off.

7. Eat Dessert at Calea.

Calea is very popular in Bacolod and it already has several branches. The one we went to was the smaller one along Lacson St. It was inside a building, beside a hotel, and it is the one I recommend you to visit. There's a surprise to that place ;). 

Budget: P150+

How to get there: It's along Lacson St. and you can easily spot it from any jeep.

8. Get into a spa and a sauna for less at Bacolod Spa.

It was a long day and I wanted a massage so we went to Bacolod Spa which was the nearest to our hotel. It was housed in a boutique, well-designed hotel but it was unbelievably cheap. For P350, I get to steam off in a small sauna, take a hotel-level shower, and get a full-service massage. Although the massage wasn't great and it was done in a big room with 5 other beds (all women I assume), the price was more than worth it. I was just happy I got to take a hot shower and have oil spread all over my body.

Budget: P350

How to get there: The spa is along Lacson St.

9. Eat the freshest of oysters in Barangay. Balaring, Silay City.

We recognize the scarcity and pretentiousness of "oysters" in the Metro and so we were very excited to find fresh ones in the province. We weren't disappointed and what we experienced was even better.

We finished two buckets of oysters, one order of shrimp and one cup of rice each in a bahay kubo

on stilts. The oysters were the freshest I've tasted and the most authentic I've seen. Before this, all I know were buttered oysters that tasted nothing more than toasted butter.

Aside from the fresh seafood, you can also get a taste of wildlife.

Behind us is a lagoon where a number of birds were hunting. They repeatedly swooped down the water, trying to scoop up some fish. Nearby, you can see crabs coming out of their holes or walking along the bank. Add to that the fresh sea wind blowing our faces and filling us to another level.

Budget: Didn't take note. It was cheap and it was worth it.

How to get there: From Bacolod City, take a jeep to the Bacolod North Terminal (P7), transfer to a Ceres bus going to Silay (P15) and get off at the town proper. Look for a tricycle driver who could take you to Brgy. Balaring (P60/ride). To go back, walk along the road until you spot a tricycle (P10 shared) going to the town proper (I don't think they have a terminal here so locals usually walk until a tricycle passes by).

Note: Ask your driver to take you to Edgewater Restaurant at the far-end of the Barangay.

10. Get coffee at the local "Starbucks".

Kapehan sang Silay, as the worn-out sign still desperately indicates, is a very popular place among the locals who usually pops in for a few minutes for a hot cup of native Kape. The coffee (may be heard as 'ne-tib') is a curious mix of black coffee, sugar, and evaporated milk. The taste of the coffee was super strong so sugar and milk was inevitable and fortunately, since we were in sugar country, it wasn't weird to dump in a ton of sugar to our cup. Aside from the "netib" coffee, we also ordered Butong, a rice cake paired with brown sugar.

Budget: P30 would go a long way

How to get there: From the airport, ask to get off at Silay City and walk a block to your right to the Church. From Bacolod City,  take a jeep to the Bacolod North Terminal (P7), transfer to a Ceres bus going to Silay (P15) and get off in front of the Church. The site is across the Church.

Note: Don't expect too much from the place aside from culture and simplicity. If you're on an early flight, you can go here to get you're caffeine fix.

11. Eat meryenda and buy pasalubong at El Ideal Bakery.

Just across the Kapehan is El Ideal Bakery, a popular pasalubong stop for locals and residents alike. It sells the most wonderful meringue I have ever tasted and some other pastries that are to die for. They have a wide variety of baked goods and packaged pasalubongs for you to try.

12. Eat Piaya right off the grill.

On mornings, in Silay, one restaurant sells and cooks ube piaya just along the street. I've only seen piaya as a packaged pasalubong and I never knew it could be eaten like this.