A nomad I will remain for life,
in love with distant and uncharted places.

~ Isabelle Eberhardt

After a hot midday tour at the Grand Palace, we moved on to few more temples. There are a lot of Wats nearby, and visiting all of them can be pretty mind blowing.

Outside the Grand Palace, we asked the security personnel on directions to Wat Pho. Sadly he can’t speak english so he called up this guy from the corner which in turn tricked us to a tuktuk ride. The ride was certainly cheap which will take us to the nearby temples and later on  to Wat Pho. He told us about a current national event held in Wat Pho so its best to go there in the afternoon when it’s less crowded.

Shortly after boarding the tuktuk, I realized that we were off to a scam deal. There has been a lot of writings about the tuktuk ride so I felt hesitant to continue since we were on a very tight schedule and we can’t tolerate and buy time to make a stop to a jewelry shop, a tailoring shop or any exorbitant souvenir shop, that aren’t part of our itinerary.

I immediately told the driver to just drop us to the first temple and then were off to Wat Pho. Oooops, too late.

He refused and beg us to just explore the jewelry shop so  he’ll get a  gas refund ticket. We felt sorry for him so we’ve been nice but it got really annoying when he dropped us to 2 more shops for his gas tickets and asked us to stay for about 10 minutes on each. That killed 2 hours of our precious time?@#$!!

Finally reached Wat Pho, one of the largest and oldest Wat in Bangkok. It is the house of a 46 meters long and 15 meters high gold plated reclining Buddha. The feet and eyes are engraved with mother of pearl and illustrates the passing of Buddha into Nirvana.

The Wat Pho complex consists of two walled compounds. It houses more than 1000 Buddha images in total, most from the ruins of the former capitals of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai.

We did a quick round and headed out. Since we swear off to use tuktuk for the rest of our Thailand journey, the mister and I decided to wander by foot and find our way to the Giant Swing in front of Wat Suthat. The 88 feet tall giant swing was formerly used for the swing ceremony, one of the 12 royal ceremonies during King Rama I regime. The ceremony was discontinued after several participants fell to their death. Today,  it is one of the famous tourist attraction in Bangkok.

Further ahead, we saw the Democracy Monument at the center of Bangkok. It was built in 1939 to commemorate the 1932 Siamese coup d’etat. It led to the end of a 150-year old absolute monarchy and Thailand’s constitutional government was born.

Of course we can’t missed Thailand’s Khao San Road, the backpackers and budget travelers haven where the cheapest accommodations and best travel deals are within reach. This is yet the most lively part of Bangkok where you can find everything, from places to stay, variety of dining options and souvenir shops, open 24 hours.

Soi Rambuttri is a bit laid back than Khao San Road but hosts a number of budget options as well.

We sampled the most popular thai dish, pad thai from one of the street stalls. A stir-fried noodles that tasted heavenly!

On to our next destination, Mahakan Fort, one of the two remaining fortresses in Bangkok. It is built to protect the eastern entry point to the island. Behind the fort is a recently converted small park where we rested and killed time for sunset.

A refreshing sight awaits us at the resting area overlooking the river and Rama VIII Bridge.

Just a few steps away is the terminal where we boarded Chao Phraya Express Boat back to the Central Station. We were supposed to wait for night time to catch Wat Arun lightings but we only  have 30 minutes left before the last trip and it’s not even close on getting dark.

Wat Arun or “Temple of the Dawn” is best viewed during sunset and evening where it makes an impressive silhouette against the skyline. Perhaps the most striking riverside landmark in Thailand.

Since we were out the whole day and we wanted some cold treats, we went mall hopping during the night. We window shopped at Siam Paragon and MBK. I’m quite disappointed since I can  buy the same items back home (particularly in Divisoria and Tutuban) at fairly cheaper price.

We discovered something though, street stalls offer better deals, for the same item.

And what better way to cap of the day than a sweet ice cold treats from  Swensen’s!

For him, strawberry stripes and for me, butterscotch brownie  sundae. It’s high time to indulge and were lost for words. Mmmmm.

2nd day of our Indonesia – Central Java leg.

We prepared ourselves early and decided to have breakfast at Mc Donalds in Malioboro Street. Seriously, we need to stop eating at this fast food chain. Although, I can’t risk my appetite to any food stalls that day, as I am foreseeing a very long journey ahead of us on the road.

Trishaw or Becaks are a popular transportation in Yogyakarta. Here they lined up along the street and wait for passengers to carry to the nearby destinations. We dropped by at Mulia Exchange to change our last bills for the trip. Oh gosh, you can call me Señora Valeria for the day. Mind you, tourists are one day millionaire here.

Can you tell from the look on my face how overwhelmed I was? That smug look vanished an hour later when we had to pay the balance for the tour. lol.

We went around Malioboro to look for souvenirs as early as 8 in the morning.  But stores are close until 9 or 10. We haven’t bought anything except for the Raissa Batik the other day. =(

Went back and checked out from Rejeki Homestay at 9 in the morning and headed to Sosro Tours for the 9:15 pick-up. Here are some travelers going on a Bromo Tour as well.

We boarded the van with two couples from Germany, one couple from Austria and two girls from Poland. Everyone is raving about the latest football match, and I can’t relate.

Ten of us cramped on a roomy van but the aircon is an epic fail. Either it was too hot outside or it can’t cope up with 11 sweating people. Regardless, I had napped several times during the trip.

They are the usual motorists around Central and East Java. We enjoyed  a sight of Mount Merapi and a lot of rice paddies.

We even caught the train in East Java which got into an accident prior that day. Now, we were worried on how to commute going to Jakarta the next day or is it ever safe to travel this way? The night-sleeper train is our only option  and were hoping there is an alternative trails, than book an expensive flight to the city.

Our super long journey to nowhere finally stopped at a local restaurant.  We had lunch at 2 in the afternoon, I was dizzy and starving. We tried Nasi Goreng and Nasi Campur. It was tasteful and we love it! We ordered Mi Goreng, to-go for our dinner just in case.

We then continued the road trip and had another stop for bathroom break at half past 5 in the afternoon.

It was already 9 in the evening when we reached the town of Probolinggo. We had to go down to register and attend a short briefing for the schedule of Bromo Sunrise Tour and those who will continue their trip to Ijen. Everyone was given another ticket, I didn’t notice that they put the assigned accommodation on the ticket until we reached Cemoro Lawang. Contrary to what our agent told us, we were given a different hotel.

The good thing is that we already paid in for our whole trip which costs IDR 700,000 inclusive of One night stay at hotel, Jeep to Pananjakan  and Mt. Bromo Crater, Breakfast and Van transfer to Surabaya.

Some tourists were not able to book for the 4×4 jeep and paid a lot more at the registration area.

At the briefing, we were told about the pick up time the next day and what we should expect. We’ll go through a 15 minutes trek to the viewing deck or if we’ll choose to go on foot from the hotel, we must get up at least 2 o’clock in the morning to start the trek.

Probolinggo has a number of hotels and inns. If you plan to check in here, most hotels can arrange for Bromo and Ijen tours. It is one and a half hour away from the village of Cemoro Lawang, the closest point to Mt. Bromo.

At Last, we reached our accommodation after 14 hours on the road. The hotel was different from what we have been promised. It was Cemarah Indah Hotel that Ruly showed us if I remember correctly. But I was so dizzy at that moment, I didn’t realized we were dropped off to another hotel. Hotel Sion View.

It was okay, but to quote the other guests, it isn’t a hotel. It’s a backpackers area. The room is basic, with a not so clean toilet. It was good enough that hot water is available.

Here’s me and my memoirs of a lost million.

When we’re settled, we ate our packed dinner, Mi Goreng, then headed out to the Restaurant to have some coffee.

Lights off at half an hour past midnight.

Read our Indonesia Backpacking Itinerary here and how we scored the Bromo Package Tour.

Follow us in Facebook and see more photos.

The further your journey takes you, the more dangers you will encounter. The more you dare, the more you win.

When Cebu Pacific had a promotional seat sale in November 2009, popularly known as Piso Fare, everyone went crazy, and even at a wee hours in the morning, I was cramming to get a seat for 2 to anywhere in Asia. Well, too bad I wasn’t alone as everyone must’ve been awake too, shopping for the very same ticket I’m eyeing for.

The only seat left for us were for Jakarta, Indonesia. I don’t even know of any exciting venture there  or if June is quite bad time to be there, but heck, I still have 7 months to worry and  make do with our itinerary. The P544 (or slightly USD 12)  return-tickets for 2 is just too good to pass up.

Fast forward to March 2010, Mr. HavenHunter and I were already discussing about our gameplan for our Indonesia backpacking in June. We decided that we can’t stay and waste a good long holiday at Jakarta alone, and while in there why not immersed ourselves with the culture and heritage of the nearby provinces too. To save time, we booked for an Air Asia flight to Yogyakarta from Jakarta, to spare us the 8 hours train journey.

Ready, Set, Fly!

Finally, we get to road test our travel itinerary, and hoped for the best that we can keep up with the strenuous schedule. A big turn from what I first envisioned as a laid back adventure .

At NAIA Terminal 3 airport we had to pay:

P 1,620 x2 – Travel Tax
P 750.00 x2- Terminal Fee

Travelling alone isn’t much of a problem, but travelling with company and if  only one person (say your father) will pay the taxes and fees of everyone, it takes a really big chunk out of the travel budget. I hope so the government does make some necessary arrangements with this ballooning fees. Come on, we only paid USD 12 for airfare and I don’t think its fair to pay USD 104 for just over an hour stay at the airport with no wi-fi connection. Besides most of the neighboring countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong and the like are not charging for the use of their airports, let alone a travel tax.

Our flight is 10 minutes to 9 in the evening. We had to bare with the 30 minutes delay due to the bad weather. Manila to Jakarta is 3 hours by plane, and Jakarta’s time is behind by 1 hour.

We had a smooth flight all the way and reached Jakarta Soekarno–Hatta International Airport at half hour past 1 in the morning. We were in Terminal 2 and had to transfer at Terminal 3 for our Air Asia Domestic Flight at 7 in the morning. There is only one money changer still open by then, so we were left with no other choice but to change some dollars to Indonesian rupiahs.

Airport shuttles are not available after midnight so we have to take a blue bird taxi (words from lonely planet) if we just know where they parked, else we’ll bargain off with touts to take us to the other terminal. After haggling for the lowest price 70000 Rp ,we were dropped off at Terminal 2 where we settled to sleep under the cold night, until the gate opens for our early flight.

Naturally, we can’t sleep from the benches. MR. HH realized we lost the tripod from the baggage conveyor. that explains the 3rd ticket on our hand. He jumped in to a taxi going back to Terminal 3  but it was too late. No one is available to accommodate him and the guard said that he can return in the morning instead.

But we still have to catch a flight at 6:00 at a different terminal, So there’s no way we can get hold of the lost tripod.

After hours of waiting, the gate finally opened at 4 in the morning. Check in at the counter was a breeze, except that I forgot that when I booked online, we’re not supposed to have a check-in luggage, instead we will have to carry our backpacks on board. Good thing we don’t have sharp objects or liquids with us.

Terminal 3 is a newer part of the airport, much like the one in Hong Kong and Singapore. Travel time is 1 hour from Jakarta to Yogyakarta.

Rise and shine in Yogyakarta

Lack of sleep or I was too dazed to realize that its our only chance to take skyline pictures of Central Java. We missed an opportunity to take photos of Gunung Merapi? or some other mountains and volcanoes from a bird’s eye view. Too late.

Jogja Airport takes us back to time. It’s a quaint airport that’s almost near to civilization unlike the international airport in Jakarta. Here we can take taxi or  train going to Malioboro.

Yogyakarta City,(also Jogja, Yogya, Jogjakarta) is the smallest province of Indonesia. It is located in the island of South – Central Java known for its Javanese fine art, batiks, archeological structures, rich culture and the center for Indonesian Higher Education. This is the also the jump off to see the two World Famous Unesco World Heritage Sites.

We could feel our dilemma building up way back from the time we set foot in Jakarta. We look Indonesians, right? So everyone speaks Bahasa at us.

We went to the taxi line and ask the drivers that can speak english that we wanted to go to Malioboro in Jalan Sosrowijayan.

From our research the backpackers area is somehow located at that street and where we could find reasonable and cheap accommodations. I’m quite positive that at 7 in the morning, we can easily get a budget room.

After around 30 minutes, we were dropped off at Jalan Sosrowijayan (Jalan is Street in English). We’ve seen the infamous small arcs of the narrow alley. Gang II. Okay, I assure you this is safe. Everyone’s friendly, but only a few can communicate in English.

We wander on the narrow street and to the next, taking mental notes of homestays and asking some if they have available rooms. We were warned by the taxi driver that it is holiday and that most hotels might be full. True enough, there weren’t available standard rooms. I wouldn’t want to spend on suites or above our budget though, since we are only going to stay with it for only a few hours to sleep. Finally we made our way to Gang I where I find Bedhots and Setia Kawan Losmen… It was an ideal budget place I saw on the net but too bad they were full at the moment. And then there’s Rejeki. This was a last moment find from my researches. I took the address and even filled it on our Immigration card.  The signboard hanging from its door says its full but I still went in and ask the owner if he will have any room available at 12 noon. Thinking that maybe we can just leave our bags and he can fix it at our room later on. So we can start our day tour.

Fortunately, there’s room available and check in time is 7. Great. Room is beyond basic with fan and TV, but clean. Toilet isn’t as good though, but can do. I have to warn you that most home and establishments here uses traditional toilets that you have to practice a go by squatting position.  We settled in and paid for one night stay, 125,000Rp. (USD 13.5).

After freshening up, we went outside to look for restaurant to have breakfast. Then there’s Superman Restaurant. We found couple of foreigners having breakfast, so they might serve good breakfast here and we don’t have to worry about spoiling our appetite this early.  Indonesian Breakfast for him and American Breakfast for me.

When we were filled, we then hunt for best deals on Bromo Tour for the following day and found Sosro Tours. There we meet Ruly. Their package seemed reasonable enough among the 4 agents we asked. We learned that there are about 16 people who signed up for Bromo the next day and they are targeting 30.  We have arranged our itinerary and should be dropping by at Sosro by 8:15 AM the next day.

Since we are already behind schedule we asked Ruly if he can assist us with finding a car service for our city tour- Borobudur – Prambanan and Ramayana Ballet.

Then he contacted Toto. We got a little stiff price of  400000Rp, I think its quite reasonable since the package is for 10am to 10 PM. This doesn’t include the entrances.

Next stop in Borobudur Temple near Magelang, Central Java.

I have to give a shout out and thanks to Pinaytraveljunkie for accommodating every questions I have regarding their Adventure in Jakarta.

Exploring strange new lands with just a backpack and a map in hand is beyond exciting and fun.  Here you’ll find the fundamental part of our adventure and what kept us busy for the last few weeks. Expect a lot of road trip stories and budget travel tips coming up.

Indonesia isn’t the world’s most popular route for independent travelers and backpackers, but surprise, we cannot underestimate the beauty of the road less traveled. And who can resist a $12 roundtrip air tickets for 2? Thanks to Cebu Pacific’s Piso fare, we got the most coveted airfare, that’s P544 in peso.

28-June { Monday }

18:00 NAIA Terminal 3 Check In at Cebu Pacific
21:25 ETD Flight Mla – Jakarta (delayed flight by 30mins.)
00:15 ETA Jakarta Soekarno Hatta International Airport Terminal 2
Take taxi to Terminal 3 Airport for Domestic Flight (airport shuttle is not available after midnight)

29-June { Tuesday }

04:00 Check in at Terminal 2
06:00 ETD Flight Jakarta to Yogyakarta by Air Asia
07:00 Arrival Yogyakarta
Take taxi from airport to Malioboro/ Jalan Sosrowijayan
07:45 Hunt for Accommodation along Gang I and Gang II backpackers area in Jalan Sosrowijayan
08:15 Check in at Rejeki Homestay
08:30 Breakfast at Superman Restaurant
09:00 Hunt for Bromo Tour and Package tour for Borobudur – Prambanan – City Tour – Ramayana Ballet
Bargain and Settled in with Sosro Tours
10:00 Start of Borobudur Tour
14:00 Drop by at Batik Shop
16:00 Start of Prambanan Tour
18:30 Dinner at Prambanan Garden Restaurant
19:30 Ramayana Ballet Show
21:30 End of Show
22:00 Back in Yogyakarta
Went around Malioboro to scout for souvenirs but stores are closing already and food stalls are being set up.

30-June { Wednesday }

07:00 Breakfast at Mc Donalds
07:30 Scour the market for souvenirs but its still too early and all shops are still closed.
08:10 Check out from Rejeki Homestay
08:15 Pick up at Sosro Tours office for Bromo Package
08:30 Leave for Cemoro Lawang in private van (10 pax including us with Austrians, Germans and Polish)
14:00 Lunch at local restaurant
14:30 Continue long trip to Probolinggo
21:30 Briefing and Registration at Probolinggo
23:00 Arrival Cemoro Lawang. Check In at Hotel Sion View

1-July { Thursday }

04:30 ETD Mt. Penanjakan – Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park
05:00 ETA Park. Start trek to Viewing deck.
05:15 Viewing Deck. Wait for Sunrise.
06:00 ETD to Mt. Bromo Crater
06:30 Start trek to the active volcano
08:00 ETD Hotel for Breakfast
08:30 Arrival at Hotel. Free Breakfast
10:00 ETD for Surabaya
15:30 Arrival at Surabaya Bus Station. Take taxi to Pasar Turi Train Station.
16:00 Pasar Turi Train Station. Purchase Tickets for Night trip to Jakarta
18:30 Leave for Jakarta via Sembrani Train

2-July { Friday }

08:30 ETA Jakarta – Gambir Station
Freshen up. Leave luggages at Locker center.
Explore Jakarta
Monas
Mangga Dua
Jalan Surabaya
17:00 Back at Gambir Station to pick up luggages and transfer via Damri Bus to Airport Terminal 2

3-July { Saturday }

00:30 Flight to Manila via Cebu Pacific
05:30 ETA Manila

Don’t missed out on my next posts for our adventures and misadventures in Indonesia and the rest of Java!

Terima Kasih,

Boracay is a tropical island South of the Philippines. A popular tourist destination especially during long holidays like Christmas and Summer.

Location:

Boracay is part of Panay province. It is located off to the Northwest corner or the island of Panay, Western Visayas region.

Best Time to Go:

While it is a cliche to hear, I’d still say Anytime of the year!

If you are looking for a party atmosphere, where tourists and locals flock the island, a sight of water sports everywhere, go during the summer months of March – May, especially during Holy Week. Christmas and New Year celebrations are big events too.

However, if you prefer a serene surrounding where you can lounge at the long stretch of the powdery white sand beach without challenge, go on the lean months of June – September, or almost any weekdays of the year except during Christmas and Summer Season.

Like any other tourist traps, there are issues beyond this lost haven, remember algae formation from the shore which scares few tourists away, waste disposal and rising cost of everything.

Boracay Wanderlust

Day 1

I scored our tickets at Cebu Pacific‘s Zero Fare Promo last May 2008. I was able to get hold of a huge discount on two-way airfare tickets for two and just paid P7, 566 excluding terminal fees. This is in time for a holiday vacation in the Philippines and thought it would be a great anniversary gift for my fiance then. I’m also checking about possibilities to get a pre-wedding shoot on this paradise island.

I also think that a weekday at Boracay on 2nd week of December is amongst the best time to explore due to the absence of algae or green moss on this time of the year. Plus the fact that there will only be a few tourists around. People will probably be still at work before Christmas.

So, off we go to Boracay last  Dec. 10-12, 2008. Aside from minor changes like moving our flight at 6:30 am instead of 5:10 am, all went smoothly as planned.

We set foot at Caticlan Airport at around 7:30 AM. I admit as organized as I am during my trips, it was the first time I’m armed with no itineraries on hand. Our wedding preparation got in the way that I neglected to do one. I just thought it will be nice to let go of a program this time and just unwind and de-stress before the big day.

We were surprised how business has been going on in Boracay. I think the local government should review the fees table because we felt totally ripped off. I think the normal thing to do is set higher fees to foreign tourists and provide minimal cost to Filipino residents, so every Juan can enjoy and travel to this beautiful island.

Extra Expenses going to Boracay

Since we fly via Cebu Pacific, we headed to the new NAIA terminal 3 and paid P200 terminal fee per person. I always wonder where all these collections are going through and why other countries do not rob people of terminal fees. A 3rd world country where everything should be paid for.

• An environmental fee of P50 per person
• Ferry Port Terminal Fee of P50 per person
• Caticlan Terminal Fee of  P20 per person

Anyways reaching Caticlan Airport, we filled out the tourist information sheets required for each visitors. We then went outside to look for ways to get to  the jetty port and found the tricycle terminal. It costs us P50, to my dismay, the distance is just a mere 5 minutes walk going to the port.

We purchased our boat tickets at P25 each and paid additional fees I mentioned earlier. Landing to Boracay, we hopped on a tricycle to take us to White Beach. Now, we have not decided where to stay and where to get off. I wasn’t worried since its a weekday and sure enough there aren’t a lot of guests coming in these days. We can easily find a decent place to stay near the beach.

We paid P20 each for the tricycle ride, sharing with other tourists and locals. We have no idea where we were. I just knew that the beach is somewhere at the left side of the road and if we will walk straight, we’ll be seeing the crystal sands and the sea soon. So, off we walk to where the we hear the soft sound of the waves, while constantly checking in for a place to dine for breakfast and affordable accommodations for 3 days too.

After asking someone, we learned that we’re in Station 2. If we walk to the left, we’ll be heading to Station 3 and to the right is Station 1. Good thing, I did made some research about Boracay long time ago and realized that Station 1 offers high-end hotels and restaurants. While Station 2 is for mid-class, and in Station 3 we have a big chance of getting cheap accommodations.

Ferdie and I were hungry by these time. We realized that indeed, Boracay has a long, long, long white beach stretch. We were each holding on to our backpacks then. Oh, did I mention, packing for this trip is my biggest success in all my travels?  I did fit in necessary stuff on my backpack, and a shoulder bag. Ferdie has his backpack too. Yay, can I call myself a light traveler now? =)

We found our way at D*Mall and since its too early to pick choices, we sampled the breakfast feast at Andok’s. Oh, let me warn you to not even try to use the public restroom nearby. It was nasty!

After breakfast, we head off to find a place to stay and luckily chanced on this promo by Alice in Wonderland between Station 2 & 3. Its a newly acquired resort with amenities such as huge garden and swimming pool, double detached rooms and a porch with rattan swing. We got an air-con room with its own t&b & television. Plus we can access through wi-fi. All for P1,000 a night.

Alice in Wonderland

http://www.aliceboracay.com

dmatsuo@aliceboracay.com
+639202499177

Much as we want to explore Boracay on a sunny day, our body was craving for some sleep. We never had enough sleep for weeks, so we doze off after choosing our room.

We explored the place a little past noon. I know a perfect place to beat the summer heat and indulge in a sumptuous lunch. We headed off to Jonah’s at Station 1. There’s no place elsewhere which offers the best banana peanut shake in town but in Jonah’s!

We had calamares and sinigang for lunch. Yum!

From Station 1 we stroll towards Station 3 direction. The beach is calm with few tourists wandering around and a lot of locals offering variety of products.

There were amazing sand castles built everywhere, we even saw one that says “Will You Marry Me?” Awww, a sweet proposal by the beach.

After posing for our tripod and catching up with the sunset, we then search for a henna tattoo artist.

My fiance’s first and my… hmmm, nth time? I got a Sun and Moon Princess tattoo while he settles for a dragon.

We checked out some shell charms for pasalubong. Cute trinkets for everyone.

Our main goal for the evening is to find a good island hopping package tour for the next day. On our way back to Station 2, we came across Allan B. Fun Tour booth, they offer Island Hopping tours where we can join in group for P600 per person. The price includes a boat trip to nearby islands: Crystal Cove and Puka Beach from 10 AM – 4 PM. Snorkeling gears are provided for different snorkeling locations, as well as buffet lunch and drinks. Excluded are the entrance fees, environmental fees and such. We’re settled then. =) They made an arrangement to pick us up at our accommodation the next day.

We made our way to D*Mall for dinner. As budget travelers, we pick on items, food, and whatever worthy to spendin for. We were unsuccessful on finding a cheap alternative to the expensive Boracay restaurants.

We had dinner at Island Chicken Inasal. Bacolod chicken and sisig at its best. Bon Appetit!

On our way back to the room, we passed by several bars. We were not really up for a drink, but I wonder how crowded and loud this area could get during summer? We’ve seen these fire dancers putting of an amazing show for the audience. Makes me want to learn those moves too.

Its full moon, Ferdie and I decided to take a dip at the private pool. All tenants must’ve been enjoying the night away, we have the pool all by ourselves.

Tired and exhausted, we call it a night.

Day 2

Rise and shine!

Woke up early for breakfast. We headed to Big Mouth at D*Mall. They have this mouthwatering big combo meal selection. Yay, gotta watch my diet.

Went back to Alice in Wonderland to prepare and get ready for island hopping. Ferdie dropped by at a barber shop for an impromptu haircut.

Our boat is big and has around 20 capacity. We were joined by about 15 people more including foreign visitors.

Our first stop was snorkeling. I have to admit I stayed out of the sun as much as I can since tan lines can ruin my perfect wedding gown.There’s not much to see at the snorkeling area, compared to what we have seen in Bohol. But I did enjoyed my encounter with a puffer fish.

Next is Crystal Cove Island. Did I just smell a photoshoot session? lol.

There are a lot of interesting areas to shoot. If you are like us, who takes hundreds of photos home, you might like to consider who you are with in this trip. We were the last one in the group to get out of Crystal Cove, its not like we were behind the group big time, but the guide was teasing us how we get to shoot to every corner and that we got the best value off our fees. Haha. We can’t explain further that the shoot is for our wedding program.

Off to the next island for a buffet lunch, then for a snorkeling stop again. There is a boatman selling ice cream in the middle of the sea, can you believe that? Priceless.

The waves were scary this time, but we were able to drop by at Puka Beach. Had a swim and pictorials here and there before going back to white beach.

We were exhausted by the time we got back and took some time to rest.

At 6 PM, we decided to have a light meal at Jonah’s. On the way, we realized its high tide. Our usual sand route was underwater now. I didn’t mind dipping my feet in and feeling the waves against me, except Ferdie is really worried about the camera getting wet.

By the time we’re finished with our sandwiches, waves are splashing hard up the walls near Jonah’s. We figured out that its a bit dangerous to cross the same path back again and decided to just take the road on the other side.

We call it an early night.

Day 3

Last day in paradise.

We started the day early and went to stroll the beach and do some more shoot. The water is yet in its pristine, calm self again. The white sand is lovely!

We headed to the grotto to take some photos. At past 10, we went back to our room and prepared to leave. Our flight is scheduled at 4:30 PM.

Checked-out at Alice in Wonderland at 11:30 AM. We still have plenty of time to eat brunch, and search the nearest market for some local delicacies and pasalubongs.

We discovered about talipapa, and the local eateries located there. They serve affordable dining experience. Argghh… too late. They also accepts “paluto” (where one can buy seafood at the wet market and have the restaurant cook it for whatever dish you like). The food is much cheaper compared to the  restaurants near the beach.

Boarded the plane at 4:15 PM.

Back to the hectic wedding planning.

I loooove Boracay!

Day 3 Kissing goodbye to the beautiful island of Panglao

See our Bohol Itinerary here.

It was our last day to frolic under the sun and enjoy the white sand of Panglao Island. So we get up early, taking advantage of the perfectly manicured beach just in front of our cottage. Walking further, starfishes brightened up my morning. I couldn’t help but collect seashells for a little souvenir.

Alona Beach is nostalgically attractive and the landscape of azure coast made us felt so blessed. Colorful dreamboats on a picturesque ocean frame, or was I dreaming?

Our morning walk somehow reminded me of Fort Ilocandia beachfront. It brings serenity and peace within me. Or maybe it was just because I was walking with the same person all along. We have differences but we love doing the same things. We argue, but we’re ready to compromise. We’re loving the perfectly imperfect in our relationship. Who would have thought that two years after, we’ll tie the knot?

Alright, getting melodramatic for a moment there and snapping back to reality, the sun gently warms up our day. We prepared breakfast and sit by the porch, contemplating on leaving. It was a scene I wouldn’t want to end yet. But all good things, come to an end as they say. So we finished off our coffee and pack for our next destination.

I’m lovi’n our accommodation at Bohol Divers Resort. The beach front cottage, green lawn, swimming pool and the friendly crew. These made up for a great vacation. I wish we could stay longer.

For a rough ride to Tagbilaran where we will spend the night, we rented a tricycle for a transport. Our driver was clever to ask if we had gone to Bohol Bee Farm already. It was on the way and we might as well drop in and see what everyone’s raving about. A good suggestion, kudos to our driver. We were given a tour of this lush green and hidden sanctuary from the interesting organic farm to beekeeping to sampling the delicious organic spreads… yum.

Off we go to Tagbilaran City. We settled at NISA Travellers Inn after comparing hotel rates. We got the room really cheap, sans the comfortable and cozy linens. It was a perfect choice for budget travelers. Although, the interior needs a little fixing. The hotel seems old and gloomy, which kind of make it creepy specially at the shared bathroom. Thankfully it was just a night.

After dropping of our things to our assigned room, we wander around town and gone to the church, market, mall and plaza. We bought our peanut kisses for pasalubong and shop for some souvenir shirts. One thing that amazes me during our visit is that, at 3:00 PM, everyone at the mall stopped and listened to the 3′o clock prayer habit.

It was a pleasant afternoon and we whiled away the time at the plaza. The local park has crazy doves and pigeons ready to play. We feed them with popcorns and they love it. Oh, we’re crazier, right?

Back to our room early to repack and prepare for an early flight.

We hailed a tricycle to take us to Tagbilaran Airport for our 6 AM flight to Manila. Home sweet home.

Our journey to Bohol is one for the books. It made me proud that I live in this country and that Bohol is something to be proud of. From the starfishes to Philippine Tarsiers to the beautiful beaches and the rich natural treasures, Chocolate Hills and old churches. We haven’t seen everything yet.  We were travelers and on tourist foot. This town has more to offer and it is worthy to keep coming back and discover more.  See you again…

Cheers!

Bohol is a paradise Island in Visayas Region, a Philippine destination famous for Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, pristine beaches and more.

When Cebu Pacific published a seat sale to Tagbilaran in 2006, it was a chance we don’t want to missed. I scoured the net to research for places to see beyond the rustic charm of Bohol and came up with our customized itinerary.

Itinerary

24-Aug    Arrival to Tagbilaran
0430   Domestic Airport. Check In.
0620   ETD Mla to Tagbilaran   |  Terminal Fee: 200
0740   ETA Tagbilaran
0800   Tagbilaran Adventure
*** hire car/multicab for the tagbilaran trip
*** Explore Sandugo/Blood Compact, Baclayon Church, Largest snake in captivity
*** Chocolate Hills, Man-made forest
*** Lunch at Loboc River Cruise, Hanging Bridge
*** Dauis Church, Hinagdanan Cave
1700   Check in at  Bohol Diver Resort
*** Arrange for Whale & Dolphin Watching/Island hopping for next day

25-Aug    Whale Watching/Island Hopping/Snorkeling
0500    Balicasag/Pamilacan Island / Puntod Island

26-Aug    Hotel Check out
0600    Swimming in Alona Beach
0800    Breakfast
1100    Check-out from hotel
*** Hire tricycle to Tagbilaran
*** Drop by Bohol Bee Farm
1200    Check-in Tagbilaran
1400    Wander around Tagbilaran and Pasalubong Shopping

27-Aug    Fly back to Manila
0600    ETD  Tagbilaran  to Manila
0810    ETA Manila

Day 1 - Welcome to Tagbilaran City

Our first flight with Cebu Pacific turned out fun and on time. We were served with light snacks and were entertained with games. We arrived in Bohol at half past 6 in a sunny morning. Just outside Tagbilaran Airport were a line up of private and public transport offering a ride to the city.

We canvassed among the vehicle owners about their packages for city tour. We have a long list of places to see the whole day before settling in at Panglao beach at noon. They were friendly and earnest in entertaining our queries. We came in agreement with Mang Allan and we have the whole multicab all by ourselves. A private cab is almost of the same rate but we find it more exciting to tour the countryside with the little red shuttle.

Our first stop was Sandugo (Blood Compact) Shrine, a monument built to commemorate the first treaty made by Spanish explorer, Miguel Lopez De Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna to seal their friendship through tribal tradition.

We didn’t stay long, and headed forward to Baclayon Church, one of the oldest church in the Philippines. Next to it is a small museum which houses old artifacts and religious collections.

Just a few minutes away, between rough road and off to the woods, we were welcomed  with the biggest surprise of the day, Bohol’s largest snake in captivity at a mini-zoo in Alburquerque. The living python, Prony, weighs 300 kg and measures 23 feet. We were too late to witness its feeding time, where I heard a piglet was served lunch a la carte.

We don’t want to meddle with Prony’s siesta though,  so we just visited it’s friends, owls, eagles and more. The animal sanctuary houses other rescued and rehabilitated animals and different bird species.

Our hot day was just beginning, so we took off to see the hanging bridge and the famous tarsier. On the way, we reserved our lunch at Loboc River Cruise. We also made a stop at  a small store where the owner showed us his captive endangered tarsiers.   This smallest primate is endemic to the Philippines. In there, we were able to get up close and really close to these species. I know these tiny friends being nocturnal bordering to suicidal are really sensitive to camera flashes and human interaction. So when the owner put it on our shoulders for photo ops, we felt guilty.

Not far behind, we get to cross a hanging bridge made of woven bamboos, we didn’t get to the other side though, just halfway to indulge in the scenic view of loboc river.

We get on board the shuttle again and continued our journey to a long and winding road. We passed through the beautiful  Loboc – Bilar man-made forest. It’s a 2 km. stretch of asphalt road set in between towering mahogany trees. The temperature suddenly drops inside this rain forest.

Over the hilly town of Carmen in Bgy. Buenos Aires is where we found one of world’s famous tourist attraction and truly nature’s wonder, Chocolate Hills of Bohol. Named as such, because the 1,776 rolling hills covered with green grass turn brown during summer.

The view deck can be reached by foot through the long stairs up.  The Chocolate Hills complex provide a panoramic view of 50 square km. expanse of  the breathtaking chocolate kisses, errr… hills. There’s one for every sweet tooth.

With the temperature rising and a stomach screaming out for food, we didn’t stay long at the view deck. We’re back on the road to indulge in an authentic  buffet lunch feast.

We were just in time for the next floating restaurant to go on cruise. Later on, we were busy clamoring for buffet with other tourists on board. For P 250 per person, we get to enjoy fresh coconut juice, grilled sea foods, fried chicken and more. Nothing fancy though, but cruising on the still waters of Loboc river, satisfy one’s craving. Live music performance by native boholanos. Some added attractions are playing kids, swinging from tree branches, jumping and swimming through the sides of the restaurant’s raft.

Nearing the cruise end were a display of Busay’s cascading waterfalls. Some tourists can’t help but plunged into the deep green waters.

Going back on land, we marvel with the caged tarsiers for a moment before hitting the road again. We passed through a century-old balete tree, which at night, will probably give a creepy feel to any passer-by.

Nearby  we saw a blood compact monument. This is where the actual Sandugo was performed between Legazpi & Sikatuna.

Further ahead, we crossed the long  floating bridge that connects Bohol to Panglao Island. The bridge look as if it spreads out into the deep blue sea and unto some secret hideaway.

We dropped by Dauis Church and admire its  Spanish architecture. The intricate painting on the ceiling is just one of the amazing features of this old church. The other one is the miraculous well at the foot of the altar which is said to possess healing power. We noticed a short line of people waiting for their turn to hold at least a bottle of water from the mysterious well.We offered a short prayer of thanks before leaving the place.

The shortest and easiest spelunking I’ve  the chance to explore was at Hinagdanan Cave. A convenient stair was built going down the karst cave that lead to a mystical lagoon. Various formation of stalactites and stalagmites glisten to a glaring sunlight from the cave’s opening. Some dare to dip into the cold waters.

Our next stop was the octagonal structure, Panglao Watch Tower, one of the tallest of its kind in the country. The ground was transformed into a small park where the dilapidated tower embraces an ocean view. Our driver was supposed to arranged  for us a boat for the next day but we weren’t decided yet, so we only took the boatman’s number.

Prior to leaving Manila, we have arranged our accommodation at Bohol Diver’s Resort. Our superior room was splendid with a beach front view.  We were trapped for awhile when heavy rain started falling.

Just in time for sunset, we stroll along Alona Beach. some boatmen bid us their rate on whale watching / dolphin watching and island hopping for the next day. We decided for the best deal of course.

To summarize, we were both captivated with Bohol’s charm and an excellent display of visual thrills. It’s something we Filipinos can truly be proud of. The warmth of boholanos let us feel at home. Nice tropical weather plays perfectly for the beach lovers.

Follow me at our 2nd day adventure in Bohol: Dolphin Watching and Balicasag Island Tour!