Firefly watching at Abatan River

Loboc is not the only river town in Bohol. The island province, home to the chocolate hills and the tiny primates, tarsiers, have four major rivers intersecting through the island. Up northwest is the Inabanga River, the largest on the island and Ipil River up north. Utilized for eco-tourism is Loboc River coming from the center of the island down to the southeastern coast and recently, the Abatan River flowing to the southwestern coast. Our adventure guide, Buzzy Budlong, found excellent paddling opportunities on the latter and set-up shop along with the town’s RiverLife tours to offer something different and new.

Paddling at Bacong River

The Abatan River

The Abatan River stretches 20km long and winds through the villages of Antequera, Balilihan, Catigbian, Cortes and Maribojoc. Before the roads where paved, the river became the means of transport between villages. It became the venue for trade and cultivation of culture along these riverside villages. Now, a Visitor Center stands along the banks of Abatan River, in the village of Cortes, 10km from the city of Tagbilaran. It is the jump-off for the RiverLife Tours showcasing the crafts and culture of the five towns. This also the start of our paddling expeditions.

Dense mangrove midway at Bacong River

Bacong River Butterflies

Coming from an exciting Sea Kayaking tour at Banacon Island, our paddles dug deep into the river waters this time on the second day of our off-beat Bohol adventure. Early morning we ventured at a narrow tributary of Abatan River, the Bacong River. The water was clean and green. Fringed by common palm mangroves. Our morning paddle was also to catch the small white butterflies playfully frolicking at the surface of the river every morning. The river widens midway and we found ourselves crossing under Bacong Bridge. Buzzy chose to use his Mango Float stand-up paddle board here again while the rest of us were on our kayaks. We reached a dam where we parked our kayaks, made a short river trek and climb over the wall. Buzzy made use of the water flowing mid-through the damn as a jacuzzi. There were also some interesting thorny shells in the area. We headed back from that point on. It took us at least a couple of hours to explore the river and back.

Going under the Bacong Bridge

Easy river trek to the dam

Enjoying the view from above

Buzzy enjoying the dam jacuzzi-like water flow

Maribojoc Firefly and essential info on the next page…

The post Bohol | Abatan River: Butterflies, Fireflies and Moonlit Nights appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

View of Aglicay Beach from a hill

My motorbike ride roared through the narrow ascending road hugging the side of the hills. It’s always exciting to step on a new island. In this case, my feet, finally grounded on Tablas Island, the largest of the three mjor islands in Romblon province. I flew into the island via PAL and landed in Tugdon airport. My motorbike is taking me to Aglicay Beach Resort in the neighboring town of Alcantara. My eyes were constantly peeled as I absorb the idyllic landscape of this island countryside. We got off the main road and saw a sign “4km to Aglicay Resort”. I’m glad where I’m staying is only less than half an hour from the airport. As the motorbike took its twist and turns entering the distant baranggay of Comod-on, my senses were captivated by the road side view. The ocean vista opening up its glorious view and the cove just ahead. Stunning white sand beach before us hugged by verdant hills. This is going to be an exciting escape, I thought. Aglicay Beach Resort, my home for a couple of nights in Tablas, Romblon.

Lovely stretch of beach and inviting waters

Aglicay Beach Resort

The sprawling 20-hectare Aglicay Beach Resort is owned by amiable couple Guillermo and Glenda Martinez. A property they purchased from their relative while they were working for 36 years in the USA. The lush and quiet cove with waters rich in marine life was originally planned as a retirement home. But after clearing the area, building access roads and adding facilities, they decided to share the place by initially opening it to friends. More resort facilities were built by 2004 and it quietly opened to the public by 2006. By 2007, it became a full service resort having been accredited by Department of Tourism (DOT).

Beachside accommodation

Home at the Serene Cove

Almost a decade since it opened to the public, Aglicay Beach Resort didn’t seem to have lost a bit of its charm. The whole area, already vast in itself, is clean and impeccably maintained. The beach area has little to no sign of litter, the manicured garden and bermuda grass areas were healthy green and flourishing. I was welcomed warmly by Jean, the person in charge at that time at their small open air restaurant which doubles as the reception and also a small store.

Aglicay Beach Resort has 10 rooms divided in two sections – the beachside rooms and the hillside rooms. I had a beach side room and boy was it big. It can fit at least 3–5 people inside. The rooms are concrete but airy. It is nothing fancy but comfortable and well-kept through the years. There may be room for upgrades but I had a good night’s sleep in my three day stay here which is important factor for me to any stay. Airconditioning was working fine and water pressure was quite strong. I like that I could already see the beach when I leave the room and conveniently a few steps away to the restaurant.

The restaurant and beach area

The open beach cottage for day trippers

Outdoor dining area

My beachside room

View of the beach from my room

Accommdations lit at night

More on nature getaway and essential info on the next page…

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Sunrise at Mt Fato Maligcong

A mountain is never the same. The looming form may remain but the trails, the ecosystem and the peak weather changes constantly. Call it moody but the micro-climate dictates whether the view from the top is cloudy or not. Such is the case when we climbed Mt Fato in Maligcong for the second time. The neighboring Mt Kupapey (Mt Kofafey) with its outstanding view of Maligcong Rice Terraces and nature trail may have grown popular to the visitors of the region but Mt Fato offers a different side of the terraces as well as the mountain peaks of Kalinga and Sagada. My first visit with Backpack Photography gave us a clear view, my return howevers was welcomed with a cold embrace from the clouds.

Climb to the Rocky Peak

“Let’s take a short cut”, says Tina, our reliable guide. Don’t be fooled by her small stature. Tina knows these woods like the back of her hand. Our climb was steady in the cold 4am morning. We could see the faint flickering lights of Bontoc town below. The darkness hiding the cliff drop only a few steps on our side. We stopped to take our breaths and wait for the rest of our companions. I look up to the sky and saw the stars peeking through the trees.

Mt Fato has a different trail from Mt Kupapey. With our Backpack Photography participants, we went back on the road leading to Bontoc and then took the road on the right when it forked. It was wide enough for vehicles but it wasn’t paved and our vehicle could only take us 1/4 of the way. The hike here was a lot easier than Mt Kupapey as major part of the trail is from the road. I also noticed there were trail markers on what seemed to be from a run event. Tina said trail running events are usually held here, organized by trail runners from Bontoc and Baguio.

Our young porters climbing the rocks and the trees

Mt Fato Summit

Much like Mt Kupapey, Mt Fato has trail winding through a pine forest. Bordered by nearby Guina-ang, part of the mountain is being disputed by the latter and Maligcong. As we got closer to the peak, was saw large limestone rocks jutting out towards the sky. We went through a narrow passage to the back and we’re finally at the summit.

It was a field of ferns surrounding the rocky outcrops. A picturesque tree stood watching on the side overlooking the rice terraces of Maligcong. From here we could see the summit of Mt Kupapey. Looking at another direction, the Sleeping Beauty of Kalinga can be sighted as well as portions of Sagada. There was no sea of clouds at that time but the purple sunrise was present and the cold. Our guides Tina and Terrance were passing hot cups of coffee to us and a cupcake. A warmth we certainly relished amidst the cold breeze at the summit. I hear a rustle of leaves above us. It was the kids, the porter guides we hired, playing up the trees. So carefree and effortless in their climb. They are at their element on these mountains.

On our way down, the boundless energies of these kids seem limitless. They were racing down the trail, now fully lit by the morning sun. For them this was a game. When we managed to catch-up with them on the trail, they were playing some native music, improvised, using gin bottles they found by the roadside. It was impromptu, unrehearsed and raw yet it sounded wonderful.

Our Backpack Photography group in Maligcong

Back at the summit of Mt Fato

More of my return to Mt Fato and the trail on the next page…

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A group of teens enjoying Garing Falls

While I was searching for places to go in Tablas, Romblon, I noticed there were plenty of waterfalls for such a small island. I knew I had to allot time to visit a few of these waterfalls during my stay. My travels have fortunately been kind to me most of the time and this one is no exemption as I was able to easily find a motorbike hire to take me around the island. Mang Alex, who I hired from the Tugdin Airport to Aglicay Beach Resort would be my wheel for chasing waterfalls in Tablas, Romblon. Our first on the list is Garing Falls in Odiongan which would be the nearest from where we are. I have to blame Jean of Aglicay Beach Resort for showing me wonderful photos of the falls though warned me it may not look like that at this time. I still decided to go anyway. Jean talked to Mang Alex and made sure we get to where we were supposed to go for the day. Mang Alex may know the main thoroughfares but not all the inner roads of the island. Our engines roared and off we go for a day of searching for waterfalls.

There’s sign of development but the place still feels serene

Ride Deep Into Progreso Weste

I was excited to go for a motorbike ride to the other parts of Tablas, Romblon but never thought I’d go deep into one of the towns of the island. Garing Falls is found in the heart of Progreso Weste. Asking directions from the locals in the area, we had to leave the comfort of the paved road to ride the narrow inner roads leading to the falls. Mang Alex was adventurous enough to take his motorbike through dirt roads past fields and even crossing at least five streams. At times, I would get off the bike for treacherous descents. We did get a sigh of relief when we saw a small signage to the falls. About half an hour of riding we were at the entrance to the falls.

At the upper level of Garing Falls

Two-layered Garing Falls

A soiled tarp of the falls serves to welcome visitors before the descending stairway leading to the falls. The stairs is not that high but still can break a little sweat. The place has little development but remains lush. An elderly woman who was sweeping the grounds welcomed us and asked us to register and pay the Php 20.00 entrance fee per head. A group of teen boys were already enjoying the moderate cascades of the lower falls. One, dangling happily from a thick vine over the basin. It was wide and a bit stagnant that time since the water flow wasn’t that strong but it didn’t stop them from swimming. It was 15 meters wide and as deep as 18feet below. The boys told me that I could go up the upper basin too but its not as deep now.

It was far from the photo Jean had shown me, nor the photo from the welcome tarp. Water flows but conservatively. I could see the side of the rocks where the water may have flowed if it was stronger and just painted it in my mind. As with waterfalls its beauty is dependent on the season but the tranquility of the place remains. I went down again to the main basin and saw the guy up the rope-vine again.

When we were about to leave, a family just arrived and is ready for their picnic. I’m guessing not too many tourist go as far as this place so most of the visitors are locals. On our ride back, we found a different route which was much easier. The road isn’t as narrow and can fit a tricycle and passes through the main area of the town. We only passed by only two streams this time. Still we enjoyed the initial ride going there. Shortly we were back on the main road off to the next waterfalls.

Young locals enjoying Garing Falls

Going to Garing Falls

Garing Falls is deep inside Baranggay Progreso Weste in Odiongan, Tablas Romblon. It is best to hire a motorbike to bring you directly to the entrance of the falls. For assistance, best to call the Municipal Tourism Office at (042) 567.6300.

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Mablaran Falls in San Andres, Romblon

I asked the locals what their favorite waterfalls is on the island of Tablas, Romblon. Mablaran Falls in San Andres always seem to pop up so it got me curious. The group of teen boys I met at Garing Falls in Odiongan told me it’s much easier to go there from the main road. The way is paved like a highway and people can swim at night because there are now lights. Not that I’ll go there for a night swim, but I’m interested how it looks and why is it a local favorite. From Odiongan town proper, we rode our motorbike 23km to the northern region of the island for San Andres.

Locals enjoy jumping on the falls basin again and again

Jumpy at Mablaran Falls

It was interesting to pass by Odiongan town where trade and transit happens. It is the island capital where a lot of the accommodations are located and the main entry port of the island for incoming and outgoing sea vessel. It’s a typical provincial coastal town as I see it with low-rise buildings and essential facilities can be found. There were some interesting eateries too. We dropped by one of the airconditioned cafeterias for lunch before heading north.

The road to San Andres was smoothly paved. When we got to San Andres, we asked people there for directions and once I asked and elder guy for Mablaran Falls, I got a reply “Ah! Yung swimming pool!” Swimming pool? Then I had some unpleasant imagery of an overdeveloped and crowded falls in my head. But we went on. The inner road was wide but there were patches of dirt road as they try to complete the whole length of the road.

By 15 minutes, we reached Mablaran Falls and paid the entrance of Php 5.00 per person. The first thing I saw was a huge pool. No wonder they call it a swimming pool. The water comes naturally from the falls but they built structures to keep the water on hold. Yes, there were development but it wasn’t as crowded as I expected for a weekend. There were a group of friends having a picnic lunch across the river pool where I can walk across being only above the knee high. I finally got to see the falls. It was low and has strong flow. The water looks inviting and deep. And again there’s a swing. At first I wasn’t that impressed with the height but people love it because they can jump on the pool again and again. I guess locals love it because its a fun falls and easily accessible. The surrounding is also still lush and refreshing. There was even a tree opposite the river and falls where a snake sleeps deeply tightly coiled on a branch. People seem to know about the snake and leave them there undisturbed.

Water no longer flows at Pag-alad Falls

Pag-alad Falls Side Trip

As I was about to leave, I met this guy on dreadlocks with his young niece and cousin at Mablaran Falls. He works in Manila but was there for vacation. He grew up in San Andres and recommended I visit this Pag-alad falls he was highly fond of growing up. Since it was on the way back and nearby, we followed his lead and rode to his village. It was indeed a short ride from the main road but had a steep dirt path I had to walk up and leave the motorbike for Alex to ride up safely.

Pag-alad falls is inside a private land but is open to the locals. It was a very short hike that leads to a small dam. The dreadlocks guy hasn’t been to the falls for over a year working in the metro and was disappointed to see the water flows only in trickles now since most of the water were diverted to the town. It was disappointing to see. Despite having weak flow, the local kids continue to enjoy the falls as there’s still a basin to jump to. But this is one of the disappointing effects of development. The village had to sacrifice the falls to have a water source for the town.

Refreshing surroundings at Mablaran Falls

Essential Info

Mablaran Falls is located at Baranggay Linawan, San Andres, Romblon. There are jeeps to San Andres from Odiongan. Travel time is 30 minutes. Motorbikes may also be hired. Entrance fee is Php 5.00

Pag-alad Falls is also at San Andres in Baranggay Pag-Alad. I wouldn’t recommend a visit since there’s no longer water flowing. But probably this may change during the rainy season.

For assistance, best to call the Municipal Tourism Office at (042) 567.6300.

Resident snake in slumber

Inviting blue-green waters of Mablaran Falls

The post Romblon | San Andres Mablaran Falls and a Pag-alad Falls Side Trip appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

The upper layer of Tuburan Falls

It was mid-afternoon already and I was contemplating whether to visit another falls. One thing is for sure, my motorbike driver Alex is not familiar with all these places we’ve been visiting. For him, it was also an adventure but for me, it takes a bit more time stopping by, asking for directions and at times getting lost. I decided to gamble on the last fall on my way back. Tuburan Falls is already within the municipality of Odiongan so we left the main road again to find this falls on our way back from San Andres.

Inviting clear water of the upper pool

Follow the Stream

Like Garing Falls, Tuburan Falls is found deep into the village. The road is more accessible up to the stream where we found workers collecting some rocks by the bed. Despite many suggestions from the locals, Mang Alex didn’t want to leave his motorbike behind and would try to ride out the shallow stream until it could no longer pass on deeper water. We had no guide with us. Since he didn’t want to leave his bike, he was afraid some locals might puncture his tire I told him to wait for me instead.

From the people we passed by, they kept telling me to just follow the stream. I found a house and a local and he told me to just go straight. So I walked on the shallow rocky stream then going on the sides until I found what seems to be a trail. It crisscrossed the river which I was confident was the way. Then I found some fresh tracks of people’s foot steps ahead the soft soil. I was relieved when I crossed path with another local and told me its just a few minutes up ahead a turn. Finally I found the hut by the falls and the two foreigners with their guide. They were just about to leave when I arrived. “Wala ka pong guide? (Do you have a guide?)” their guide asked. I said none. But I was glad to finally reached the falls in less than half an hour.

Water flowing through the limestone rocks

Tuburan Falls

Tuburan Falls is a multi-layered falls. Again, it’s a low falls just like any other falls on the island of Tablas. What I liked about this one is the flow is strong and there are pools on different levels. I went up and found this clear water basin which leads to the bigger drop below. I went up a little and found I can navigate on the higher levels going up the white rocky boulders. I see a cave opening up ahead which I heard leads to “Cayatong”, an enchanted home of the faeries.

Being alone at the place and afternoon going deeper, I don’t think I’m adventurous enough to explore the land of the fairies. Instead I took the opportunity to take a dip at the clear pool for a few minutes. It was cool and refreshing as expected. I would have stayed longer but we still have a way to go back to Aglicay Beach Resort in Alcantara. Tuburan Falls may be the last I visited for the day but it certainly became one of my fave on the island.

It was hard to resist this clear waters

Essential Info

TUburan Falls is at Barangay Tuburan in Odiongan. Motorbikes can take you to the jump-off of the fall. The hike by the river/stream is less than 30 minutes. Wear comfortable footwear that is okay for river crossing. Bring enough water and snacks.

For assistance, contact the Municipal Tourism Office at (042) 567.6300

Water flowing to the lower level of the falls

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Approaching an unnamed beach in Port Barton

There’s an advantage and disadvantage of staying in San Vicente town proper as I have learned. Advantage is that I get to stay real close to San Vicente’s Long Beach, the longest white beach in Palawan which I have immensely enjoyed combing through. Disadvantage is that Island Hopping here is costly unlike if I stay in Port Barton. The Island hopping tours (A to D) only cost Php 700 per head for a minimum of four people in a group. But since I’m travelling alone, I would have to shell out Php 2,000 to get to Port Barton by boat. The people at tourism office said if there are any groups from here that would do the tours I could always join in but from the looks of the people coming and going through this town, chances are pretty slim. I was resigned to spend my last full day in San Vicente by the beach when Ate Flor, the owner of Ursula Long Beach Travaller’s Inn called me up while having breakfast that she’s at the tourism office and managed to get me a slot to join a group doing a Port Barton Island Hopping Tour. I immediately said yes, quickly packed my camera and gear and hopped on a motorbike to take me to the port.

Sea anemone and fishes at the Twin Reef

Port Barton Island Hopping Tour

Port Barton is a small village of San Vicente, Palawan separated by mountains and hills. It has a different access road coming from Puerto Princesa, though there are talks of road construction connecting Port Barton from San Vicente town. Port Barton Bay is where most of islands and reefs are located in San Vicente. From the Port Barton town, the closest tourist spot is only about 2.7 nautical miles. Since we’re coming from San Vicente port, we had to travel at least 7.5 nautical miles which is around an hour travel time.

Twin Reef teeming with fish and good set of corals

Snorkeling at Twin Reef

I was the only outsider from the group on the boat. I was with a friendly French family with a French guy married to a Filipina. Tagging along is their young daughter probably of 4 or 5 years old. The French guy’s parents were also there and as well as his brother and the bro’s girlfriend. They were touring Palawan coming from El Nido and Taytay making their way down to Palawan. They were a friendly bunch and I never felt left out during the Port Barton island hopping tour.

The Twin Reef was our first stop. I couldn’t see where the name came from if it was the characteristic of this reef it’s not that apparent. What I do know is that the water here is shallow but deep enough to swim around. It has good set of corals in very good condition and fish aplenty. I enjoyed this first part of the tour and it seems my French companions as well that went down to snorkel.

German Island panorama

German Island Hammock Time

It was already inviting from the approach. German Island, is how tropical paradise are often pictured – gleaming emerald waters, blinding white sand beach topped with coconut trees. Named as such because a German national rented this private island for 20 years. This was our lunch stop. A native gazebo in the middle of the island and toilet facilities near the low hill. It’s a beautiful small island with a nice beach and surrounding waters home to a few resident pawikans (sea turtle). It was mid-day with the sun at its highest so I wasn’t in the mood for a swim. The hammocks beckoned and I spent the rest of my time there after lunch.

Approaching German Island and hammocks by the beach

View of the nearby island from the German Island beach

View of the Exotic Island

The gazebo at the center of the island

Hammock time

Exotic Island, unnamed beach and essential info on the next page…

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The many cascades on the lower levels of Tigbi Falls

Our bleary eyes and drowsy heads from the six-hour red-eye road trip from Manila to San Andres, Quezon was suddenly shook awake. We knew we would take a motorbike to our first destination which is Tigbi Falls, but I guess we were not ready for the tough and rough road (which is an understatement) ahead. Suddenly, I was harkened back to those butt-beating rides to waterfalls like in Asik-asik Falls in Cotabato and Tulgao Palan-ah Falls in Kalinga. While it’s certainly not of the same level of difficulty, it is that close to a tough ride in at least half an hour for me to recall them. But all that was a rewarding transit. Aside from the scenic landscape of Banaba village on the way, Tigbi Falls is where stuff of enchantments and lore are born.

Scenic but rought ride of the Banaba Hills on the way to Barangay Mabunga

Road to Tigbi Falls

Where is Tigbi Falls exactly? Since this is a side-trip from a more popular destination, the Alibijaban Island in San Andres, Quezon, it seems common knowledge that the falls is under the same municipality. In fact, its common name for the locals is Banaba Falls which is a Barangay in San Andres. But the jump-off point goes through Baranggay Mabunga which is already on the next municipality of San Francisco. I asked several of our motorbike drivers where exactly the falls fall under, the closest answer I could accept is that it’s at the border of both San Andres and San Francisco. Going by GPS and the geotag of my photos which I know isn’t exactly accurate, the location from google indicates that the spot is under San Andres.

The green trail. My companions seen far behind the trail

Wondrous Levels

No matter where it’s at, we had to hike about 30 minutes to reach the falls. We had to pass through a couple of streams and walk through soft soil and evergreen trail along a river. I thought the hike was easy to moderate but can get really difficult if it rains as it gets really muddy and slippery.

The firs level we could see the the cascades already getting stronger. There’s a nice small cascade on the left as we enter the trail. Then we had to navigate the side of the falls to go down. I noticed that the locals have already carved some steps on the rocks to make it easier to descend amidst the gushing water. I thought this wide curtain of a falls was already the main falls but its not.

Finding this small cascade on our left on the first level of the falls

More photos and essential info on the next page…

The post San Andres | Follow the Flow to Tigbi Falls appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

Approaching Mt Pinatubo crater from the air

The beautiful blemish of the Earth, Mt Pinatubo, has constantly been an impressive sight to behold. It’s hard to imagine that the destructive power of this stratovolcano has transformed its surrounding area into a magnificent alien landscape that’s constantly changing and molding. I have been to Mt Pinatubo many times already on land and have appreciated its sandy trails and oscillating cliff walls. Recently I had the fortunate chance to take a helicopter tour of this famed volcano. The Mt Pinatubo Aerial Tour was offered by ArchipelagoPH as I accompany their photo contest three winners and document their winning flight. It was also my first time to ride a helicopter so it was an opportunity that’s too hard to pass.

Sightseeing Manila from above

Mt Pinatubo Aerial Tour

I met up with the rest of the passengers at the AAOP Hangar 2 Manila Domestic Airport. The three talented photo contest winners, William Clemente, Rey Carinungan and Hannah Cepe arrived and were excited waited for our flight. The Mt Pinatubo Aerial Tour is operated by PhilJets. While waiting for our chopper to arrive, we lingered at their hangar and feasted on the handsome EC130 T2 chopper parked at the hangar. It is the same model we’ll fly into which got us more excited. Finally past lunchtime we were cleared to fly.

Flying over what I guess would be Dinalupihan area

Flying Low to the Crater

The thrill of flight elevated as we took off vertically from the ground. The city seemed like little blocks of lego from the air. We were flying low, somewhere between 400–500 meters high. My companions were shooting in frenzy on both directions – the view and themselves. Who could blame them, it’s not everyday we could ride a chopper. I marvelled at the patterns below, from roads and rivers winding through the city and patches of fields and concrete lands. I try to make out landmarks I could recognize just to figure out where we were exactly.

It was amazing to see the transitions from the patches of towns and cities to the rugged peaks and undulating hills coming towards Mt Pinatubo crater. From the barren landscape it once was after the eruption, nature has already found its way to turn itself back in its verdant state. The greens were abruptly interrupted by the fragile gray cliffs of rocks and ashes as we got close to the mouth of crater. We hovered over the crater, circling around maybe up to 4 times. I was to excited to count. Suddenly I knew how it felt like to be a drone. Flying low and close to the peaks, swooping down and making sharp turns around the bend. It was exhilarating. As much as we want to do more rounds we found ourselves on our way back. The clicking (still on both directions) didin’t stop (yes even as we had landed). The whole tour lasted over an hour but it was an exciting hour worth remembering.

Beautiful patterns of green seen below

Essential Info

Philjets offers Mt Pinatubo Helicopter Tours.

The Discovery Mt Pinatubo is Php 83,253 for 3 pax. Flight duration is 1 hour and 40 minutes in a R44 Helicopter. Includes 2 cycles over Mt Pinatubo in 10 minutes.

The Pinatubo Aerial Tour is Php 133,653 for 6pax. Flight duration is 1 hour and 25 minutes in a Brand New EC130 T2. Includes 2 cycles around Mt PInatubo. Includes onboard GoPro Camera and iPad. Bose® Noise-cancelation headsets.

Contact:

PhilJets Aero Services Inc
AAOP Hangar 2,
Manila Domestic Airport
Domestic Road Corner MIAA Road
Pasay City, 1300
Metro Manila, Philippines
Tel: (+632) 851 0639
Hotline: (+63) 998 974 0497 / 998 843 5956
Fax: (+632) 851 0248
Email: info@philjets.com, charter@philjets.com
Many thanks to Archipelago.com.ph/InFlight Mag for the flight.

Rugged landscape of Mt Pinatubo on our approach

Fragile cliffs

Finally the Mt Pinatubo Crater bird’s eye view

The author enjoying the view by the window

Flying close to the mountain peaks

Beautiful pattern of the green fields

Mt Arayat seen on the horizon

Inside the brand new EC130 T2 Helicopter

The three ArchipelagoPH photo contest winners Hana, William and Rey with the EC130 T2 Helicopter

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Approaching Alibijaban Island

We could see the long strip of the white sandy shores of Alibijaban Island from the port. We arrived just in time for the sunrise after a long six-hour drive from Manila. I was in the company of my fellow officemates from the university I currently work with and we’re on an outing trip. But it seems, we won’t be alone on the island as we were expecting. The newly built port already had a few vehicles parked, probably heading to the same island. Alibijaban Island has garnered quite a popularity in the past couple of years, and I had to blame my friends, Dong Ho and Allan of Lantaw for that somehow. I had some laughs when I recount Dong Ho’s story of being mistaken as an NPA when he first set foot on the island. He had to seek comfort and security under the baranggay captain since no tourist comes to their island. Now visitors here picked up especially on weekends. What drives people on this southern region of Quezon province?

The island on the horizon seen from the port

Road to San Andres

The small team in our office department narrated how much they have enjoyed Calaguas Island in their previous outing and it has set quite a standard when they go on trips. I threw the idea of going to Alibijaban Island in the air hoping for something similar  in character – white sand beaches, undeveloped infrastructure and crystal clear waters. While I haven’t been there before, my travel buddies speaks highly of it so I was confident it would deliver. I contacted my travel blogger friend Izah of Explore8 so she could arrange for us a good package for the tour since we had to make it official and they didn’t disappoint. We had to go through several dates until setting on one where we can accommodate more people. And so it was set.

It was a weekend night drive to San Andres via Lucena City. What would usually take 8–10 hours bus commute only took six hours with our van complete with all the bumpy ride parts of the road especially after Lucena. Our van driver has been here so it was easy to find the port. San Andres is a rural town with no major establishments. We settled on the small makeshift food stalls but had tasty lugaw (rice porridge), pancit and 5-peso pancakes. Coffee came from a local burger stand.

Arriving at the island

Alibijaban Island Allure

The wonderful Tigbi Falls was our first stop from San Andres. Coming back mid-day, we excitedly boarded a large outrigger for Alibijaban Island. It’s only a 20-minute ride and we we’re already mesmerized on how clear the waters were as we approach its shores. We could see flags flapping and also some tents of other visitors on the island. We were right to expect there were other visitors already but it is not as crowded as other places still. We stayed in a Pension House. Electricity is still a problem on the island and water too. For our group, there was only a drum supply ready but judging from our numbers it wasn’t enough. A Php 150 per drum of water supply is available. Water shortage is the biggest consideration here and the minimal facility for shower and toilet. Good thing our group rented the house with an ensuite toilet and bath and don’t have to line up with the hordes camping outside.

Arriving mid-day, we just settled on relaxing and catching up on lost sleep from the drive. Finding a comfortable shade where we could lay down, read a book, snooze or simply enjoy some tunes. When the heat was bearable enough we walked around the beach and find some area to take a dip. The water was warm and the tide was virtually none. I decided to walk further north of the island passing by a fishing village of lively locals midway until I reach the mangrove protected area of the island. I could have gone farther but forgot to bring some citronella oil to keep those sand mites I saw jumping around the beach. It was late afternoon already, the time they come alive. I just decided to shoot from where I am and walked back catching up with Tin who I found wandering as well. The walk back found us conversing with some locals and friendly dogs along the way.

Night finds the group gazing at the stars. It was more refreshing to stay outdoors by the beach with the cold breeze steadily simmering down the heat of the day. It was wonderful to look at the stars we can barely see in the city. I decided to sleep at the pension though seeing there would be noisy camps opening all the windows to let the air in. From my exhaustion I was in deep sleep in minutes.

Kids enjoying the waters despite the mid-day sun

Beach stretch near the camping area

Kids near the fishing village

Way to the mangroves

Boats passing and two mangroves

Camping under the stars

Sunrise, Sunbars and essential info on the next page…

The post San Andres | Allure of Alibijaban Island: Sandbars, Mangroves and Clear Waters appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

Sunset at the Oceanside Pier

The American Dream, as the Filipinos fondly call it. There was a time when a lot of Filipinos dream of a better life by migrating to the USA. I remember teens getting into college were coerced to enter nursing or get a course on caregiving just to have a better chance of getting into America. Our family was supposed to migrate to USA when I was still in grade school but the plan fell through due to an obstacle. I never bothered to think about it growing up, thinking it will still be a dream. The closest I got to USA was Guam. By a twist of fortunate events, August 2015, I found myself standing on of the longest wooden pier in America, the Oceanside Pier. Finally, I could feel the cool crisp air, see the surfing culture with my own eyes, walk the steps of the pier where some Hollywood movie actors walked (cue in Top Gun, Iwo Jima and American Sniper) and have a taste of the local eats. Yes, I’m in California and its just the beginning of my journey in the land of dollars. Fulfilling my own American Dream.

Surfing at Oceanside California

The Oceanside Pier

My getting into America was not solely of my own doing. Most of our clan are spread out in the country and I would attend the grand reunion as representative from the PH. My sister and her husband helped me get here. They hosted my stay in Southern California. My sister, Clarise, who’s active in her church frequents the coastal city of Oceanside during market day Thursdays. She volunteers in their church booth. My other sister from Canada, Elise, was also with us and accompanied me on exploring this lively Thursday market. There was so much to see and try.

While waiting for our other sister to finish her duties, my sister Elise and I spent more time by the Oceanside Pier, a dominating wooden pier 1,954 feet (569m) long, extending to the western US sea. It stood witness to the long history of this coastal city since it was built in 1888. I remember my aunt, who migrated in the US late 70s, tell me on how she remembered the seedy reputation of Oceanside after the world war II. Oceanside is also a military town south of Camp Pendelton. Those early decades, Oceanside was a tough town with high crime rate, home to rowdy bars, nude night clubs and sleazy beach front motels. But with the local community’s efforts to change the city image, things slowly turned around by year 2000 with implementation of the city’s redevelopment plans.

Now, I don’t see a shade of the town’s former shadow. What I see now is a thriving coastal town with chic beach side establishments, luxurious hotels and an active community. But that’s just on the coastal area where I had been. Who knows if i get deeper into the alleys of the city.

The Oceanside pier is one of the longest wooden piers in America

West Coast Sunset

Those slender and tall California palms trees with its amusing bud-shaped tips and somewhat fuzzy trunk fringe the stretch of the beach. Come sunset, they form lovely silhouettes, of towering beings that seems to watch the setting sun  with the crowd at the beach. Oceanside beach is lovely, wide with fine cream sands. But the beach here is cold and the water chilly. Now I understand why westerners love our warm sunny beaches. The waves is a haven for surfers with swells and barrels peaking until the fading light. I watch a variety of people, from loners to families enjoying the beach. It’s amazing how the coast is well developed. Playgrounds, eateries, shower areas and provisions for campfire without polluting the sands. The lights at the pier lit up adding a pulsating warm glow under the twilight pastel sky.

We went back to the Thursday Market. A country band was rocking some tunes as we busy ourselves ordering meals for dinner. I relish the large order of authentic Greek gyro which I shared with my sisters. And I got introduced to the wonders of Chamango, a Mexican Chili drink that has a crazy mix of flavors from sweet, spicy, and sour. It’s basically made of two ingredients — mango (plus other fruits) and chamoy (locally also knowns as champoy). Add a sauce of pickled fruits and powdered spices for a more intense flavor. I love it! How come we don’t have this in the Philippines?! It really goes well with the tasty gyros we ordered.

The Thursday Market didn’t stay late that evening. In fact, people were already packing up as early as 8pm. After that wonderful dinner, we headed to my sister’s home at Vista. I sat in the front seat of the car and see Oceanside at our night drive. I’m getting to know America little by little. Deeper than what the movies or books I’ve read have portrayed. Perhaps seeing and immersing in the life of each people I meet there.

At the Oceanside

Thursday market

Lots of Mexican treats in this market

The playground at the beach

A little crowded but still spacious

California palm and the pier at sunset

Kids enjoying the beach near the pier

Lights up at dusk

People watching

Everybody wants to see the sunset

Bustling night market

Witty signs on some of the Asian food stalls

Live band at the venue

Authentic Greek gyro and the life-changing chamango

The post California | At the Oceanside Pier: First Taste of America appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

Paloy Cagayat at his workshop in Paete

There’s a distinctive smell of wood amidst the mixture of paint and thinner lingering in the air. I could hear the constant pounding of multiple mallets on chisels carving away pieces of wood to make form to an otherwise large piece of wood. Occasional sawdust fills the air when sudden gust of wind blows through this open air wood carving workshop. Paete Woodcarving has been a thriving industry since the Spanish era until now. A walk at the town’s market road, it is hard not to notice the rows of shops, selling variety of wood work and paper mache. This crafty town of Paete, north-east of Laguna have earned its declaration as the Woodcarving Capital of the Philippines back in 2005. Thanks to proud Paetenians whose generations of wood carvers passed their skills and dedication for elevating the art. Here we meet some of the master woodcarvers that have etched their legacy in the town’s history.

A young woodcarver working meticulously

Paete Woodcarving

The Paete Woodcarving tradition runs deep in history, dating back in the pre-Spanish era. Even the town’s name, Paete, goes away from the Spanish colonizer’s norms of naming places after saints. It was a result of a misunderstanding between a native and a Franciscan priest. When asked what the place was, the native replied, Paete, referring to his chisel. He thought the priest was asking about the tool he was using. By 1580, Paetenians honed their craft by carving retablos and images used to ornate the churches in town and neighboring towns in Laguna.

Portraits of Paloy Cagayat a gem of Paete Woodcarving

Paloy Cagayat

Even at this time, families have continued the tradition Paete woodcarving. One noteable wood carver is Justino “Paloy” Cagayat, Jr. Already 3rd of his generation, his family owns one of the bigger open air  wood carving workshops in Paete. Some of his prominent works are: the image of San Pedro Calungsod, which was brought to Rome for the canonization of the Filipino’s 2nd saint; the paper mache image of Ninoy Aquino, a work commissioned by the former President Corazon Aquino for Ninoy’s 10th Death Anniversary; and Paloy also got commercial fame when he daringly carved the mythical figure “Machete” used in the movies that starred Cesar Montano in 1990 and Gardo Versoza in 1993.

I watch in awe as Paloy worked on one of the religious image he was commissioned fto do. He prefers to use batikuling wood – a soft wood abundant in the Sierra Mountain ranges whose scent naturally repels termites, ants and even wood worms. Occasionally by request, he also works on pricier woods like kamagong or narra. We watch how he manages the shop and his people. He has sharp eyes as minuscule details doesn’t escape him. His workers are his extension, making sure the quality remains.

It would seem Paloy’s influnce on woodcarving has brushed off to the next generation of his family. His son, Franco Cagayat, is making a name for himself in carving model cars and other vehicles. Assuring the Cagayat art will continue on.

For inquiries on Paloy Cagayat’s work contact (+6349) 557.0641

Luis Ac-ac and Angelo Baldemor on the next page…

Paloy is known for his bespoke religious wood works

Hand painting sculpture pieces

Making images of saints

Ornamental pieces

The post Laguna | Paete Woodcarving Capital and its Masters appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

The USS Midway Museum

If there’s one thing I noticed, America is really proud of their military. I don’t think it is mostly about patriotism on their part but giving respect and due to those who served for their country. America invested a lot on their military technology and it follows that it pours through their people. Those in the military, past and present, gets benefits like considerable discounts at establishments to family perks. In my visit to the USA, my brother-in-law, suggested I visit the USS Midway Museum in San Diego. I wasn’t surprised really. To know America is to know its military. Besides, it would be interesting to see the now decommissioned USS Midway (CV–41) aircraft carrier which used to be the largest ship in the world until 1955. It even made its way to the Philippines after its deployment.

The Unconditional Surrender through the trees at the Tuna Harbor Park

First Time in San Diego

I enjoy the drive from Vista to San Diego being new in the state. The traffic scheme here is organized, quite a contrast from chaotic Manila. I’m sure US drivers would be culture shocked when they take on our streets. But nonetheless, the cities aren’t spared from traffic especially at peak hours. We walked at the boulevard along North Harbor drive. It was interesting to see a lot of Americans running mid-day, under the heat of the sun. Probably for them, the tan would be appealing or it makes productive time try to squeeze in some activity during lunch break. I also like how they made efforts to make public utilities more presentable like the restrooms in the boulevard. I did notice that most of the public restrooms doesn’t have mirrors. I was told some thugs would break them so they just don’t put mirrors on those places anymore.

I’m glad to have seen San Diego with my own eyes now. An all too familiar city I kept hearing about simply because there’s a large community of Filipinos living here aside from the Mexicans and Vietnamese. Fact, a lot of my relatives are here too.

The USS Midway Museum ticket counters

Unconditional Surrender

We decided to have a little fun and rented a tandem bike with roof shade to pedal around the street harbor. Our route was to the Tuna Harbor Park. Named after San Diego’s commercial fishing industry, the park has excellent vantage point to view the San Diego Port activities. One landmark that stood out in the park among the many sculptures in the area was the installation called Unconditional Surrender, a 25-foot sculpture made of styrofoam by Seward Johnson. The sculpture was based on a photograph by Victor Jorgensen of two strangers kissing on V-J Day in Times Square (Victory over Japan Day). It definitely was amusing to feel so small beside this gigantic statue. Its location is so appropriate being near another behemoth of a vessel, the USS Midway.

Headset and audio player and a glass floor view

Exploring the USS Midway Museum

If one is fond of warships, jet planes, helicopters and all things military, the USS Midway Museum is like an adult disneyland. Boarding the USS Midway Museum can be overwhelming as there is so much to see. USS Midway was considered a City at Sea where it has its own ecosystem. A living community. It was the longest-serving aircraft in America (1945–1992). Upon entering, a headset with audio player with a self-guided tour would be provided. This would help visitors find their way around the area. And I must say, if you go through the audio tour thoroughly, it would take a whole day. There are 60 exhibit locations within the ship. Through its networks of complex corridors and multi-platforms, we were led to hundreds of cabins showing the living conditions of the people who lived in the USS Midway. For a newcomer like me inside a vessel like this, the details just sparks imagination on the day-to-day goings of the crew here. But for the veterans who visit, there may be a tinge of nostalgia as they relive their lives on board the USS Midway or a similar military sea vessel.

My favorite part of the tour here is seeing the aircrafts on board. From the different jet planes and helicopters. There are even opportunity to sit in the plane cockpit and get inside the huge carriers that I only got to see in the movies. It was a fun and educational tour that lasted up to 3 hours for us. I don’t think we have seen everything there is to see but I certainly saw the immensity and the power of the US military through the USS Midway Museum.

The ship also had strong historical connections with the Philippines as half of its air combat fleet were offloaded temporarily at Subic Bay and Cubi point in 1975 during their operations in Vietnam. The ship made several connections even plying the seas of Palawan. It was in 1991 when the USS Midway had its final deployment and it was in the Philippines when around 20,000 military personnel were rescued from Clark Air Base after Mt Pinatubo erupted. That Philippine connection made USS Midway more significant for a Filipino, after all, it was their last mission before the Midway was decommisioned.

The USS Midway Musuem
910 N. Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92101
Visit: www.midway.org

The Unconditional Surrender and the USS Midway at the background

Getting to know the milestones of the USS Midway

Vintage fighter planes on display

The cool looking F-8 Crusader fighter

Jet cockpit

Training room console

A soldier’s locker

A cafeteria in the ship

The ironing room

Complex pipes and levers

The unconditional surrender seen from the ship restaurant

The post California | First time in San Diego and the USS Midway Museum appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

The highest waterfalls in Bontoc, the Hamuyyo Falls

Bontoc is such an underrated destination in the Mountain Province region. I must admit that I was guilty of dismissing Bontoc as simply a gateway to other destinations like Sagada, Banaue or Kalinga. Discovering the beauty of Maligcong three years ago changed my notion of Bontoc. I realized, the town is just the tip of the iceberg. My recent visit found me in Talubin, the neighboring village 6km from Bontoc Town proper, known as the Land of Clear Waters in the province. One look into the village, it’s easy to see the abundance of water flowing through the village. Talubin village is settled comfortably at the slopes of the Cordillera Mountain Ranges where streams from the mossy forest continuously flow and a clean river runs through. We were also there to visit one of the main source of water in Bontoc, the Humuyyo Falls, located 3,700 feet above sea level.

Start of hike in Talubin

Hike to Humuyyo Falls

I was accompanied by friends from Maligcong Suzzete of the Maligcong Homestay, Tina, the ever reliable guide and travel buddy Lagalog. Jerome, Suzzete’s husband dropped us of by the bridge near the jump-off trail. I was looking for something new to explore in Bontoc and I thought this would be good to explore. Seeing the photos at the Bontoc Tourism Office and getting assurance from the tourism officer, Elli, that water flows through this falls all year long sure was enticing.

The first 15 minutes of the hike is along the paved water canals supplying the rice terraces. The elevation gets higher and we could see the bridge below were we started. Then, the first water crossing begins. The water was indeed clear and very cold. Tempting to stay a bit but we were just starting our trek. The trail then goes on the side of the mountains. The trail was narrow and often had some soft grounds but surrounded lush vegetation. We crossed several streams and cascades. By my count if I’m not mistaken, around five, as we made our way up following the path of the cascades.

Vegetation getting denser

The first stream crossing

Continue our way up

Continue story and essential info on the next page…

The post Bontoc | Humuyyo Falls in Talubin, The Land of Clear Waters appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

At the Abanao Poaoy of the Mt Ulap Eco-Trail

Clouds have always been a thing of fascination. People climb mountains often to see the play of clouds billow across mountain peaks like waves. Dissipating in a dance from nebulous to nothingness. When I heard about the Mt Ulap Eco-Trail which recently opened last October 2015, I was intrigued. The Eco-trail is also known as the Philex Ridge, named after the huge mining company operating in the area. The highest peak, was named Mt Ulap by an engineer named “Lagman” who marked the summit in February 1, 1939. He described that the mountain is perennially a magnet for clouds (which is “ulap” in tagalog). The trail has long been a playground for trail runners from Baguio and Benguet. Now the local government, particularly the Ampucao Tourism Council opened the trail to the public.

Morning hues at Abanao Paoay

The Mt Ulap Eco-Trail

I wanted to catch the sunrise at the peak and taking the public transpo wouldn’t do. We hired a taxi from Baguio and took the 45-minute ride to Ampucao Baranggay Hall which is the registration area. Even at 2:00am there were already people to attend to us there. One by one, guides were coming in to list their names on their log book. There are about 100 registered guides here and about 50 active ones on duty throughout the week. For the guides, the earlier they list their names, the sooner they get to do guide duty. First come first serve. And possibly do another guiding duty for the day to double their income. I’m actually impressed on how organized the Ampucao Tourism Council is. The place is well-kept and documents accounted for. There’s a Php 100 registration fee for each visitor and Php 400 for a guide fee for a group of up to 7 pax.

Clouds rolling over the ridges

Climb to Abanao Paoay

We started our hike at 3:00am and Alex was our lucky guide. The first guide on their list. From the Municipal Hall we had a 1km walk to the jump-off Tomtombek. Alex calls the walk a warm-up but the steep first paved road ascend was the real warm up. There’s a signage before the dirt trail to give an idea of the major points of the Mt Ulap Eco-trail. From them on, it was a 45-minute assault into the dark pine forest trail. The Baguio and Benguet city lights behind us. Alex is quite knowledgeable of the area and would point us to where Lingayen Gulf of Pangasinan could be seen.

We reached Abanao Paoay by 4:30am. The darkness was enveloped in mist. Our headlamps could only illuminate up to 5 feet in front of us. We decided to wait there for the sunrise. The thick clouds quelled our expectations of a dramatic sunrise. Though the sliver opening through the clouds let us peak through the sun shyly hiding behind it. The light was subtle but soon we were able to see the landscape before us, a wide grassland with picturesque hills. The name aptly describes the place as Abanao means “vast” and Paoay means “grass”. There’s a wide ground for a camp site and also an area they call the rock balancing hill.

Afternoon rains make the plants more vibrant

Descending the hill

Looking back at the peaks of Abanao Paoay

Narrow ridge trail to Gungal

Gungal Rocks and Mt Ulap Summit on the next page…

The post Benguet | Mt Ulap Eco-Trail: A Trek Through the Clouds appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

The biggest Storybook Castle in all Disney parks is in Shanghai

It’s the happiest place on Earth! Who wouldn’t want to go there? And now it just got a lot bigger. Shanghai Disney Resort, to date the largest foreign investment Walt Disney Company has made, opened recently in Pudong Shanghai. The sprawling 11-acre is where one’s Disney fantasy gets real. Just in time, AirAsia Philippines just relaunched their direct, Manila to Shanghai flights three times a week. And to celebrate this momentous occasion as mainland China ventures into a whole new world of Disney, we’re giving one reader and his/her companion a trip to Shanghai with free passed to Shanghai Disney Resort.

AirAsia Philippines Reconnects to Shanghai

AirAsia, the World’s Best Low Cost Carrier for seven consecutive years, is offering direct flights from Manila to Shanghai started June 10 with all-in promotional fares starting from as low as P2,888 only.

Flights between Manila and Shanghai will be operated by Philippines AirAsia with the following schedule:

Z2 19 Shanghai Manila

Shanghai Disneyland Resort

The $5.5-billion ShanghaiDisney Resort is the company’s third theme park resort in Asia, following properties in Tokyo and Hong Kong. It is also the third-largest property, slightly smaller than Disneyland Paris Resort but nearly twice the size of the original Disneyland Resort in California and is strategically located in Shanghai’s bustling Pudong district, home to some of Shanghai’s most recognizable skyscrapers and a number of luxury hotels, and just 12.5 miles from the Shanghai Pudong International Airport.

The Bund

Other Attractions in Shanghai

The most influential city in China, Shanghai pulsates with life amongst the bright lights from towering skyscrapers, fashionable folks strolling along the scenic banks of The Bund, and old temples with rich culture and history. Here at the heart of the huge metropolis, you can find the perfect blend of cultures – old and new, western and oriental – exemplifying what contemporary China is all about.

• The Bund. A symbol of Shanghai’s colourful past and thriving future, this 1.5km-long waterfront on the banks of Huangpu River is lined up with avant-garde buildings that are Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Neo-Classical-inspired. Across the river is an astounding skyline of Shanghai’s skyscrapers, including the famous Oriental Pearl Tower.
• Yuyuan Gardens. One does not think of tranquillity when you come to the Yuyuan Gardens. A souvenir paradise, there are countless vendors surrounding the lively square amongst impressive classical Chinese architecture. Shop for jade, jewellery or handicrafts, or even splurge at the more popular brands within the gardens.
• Xintiandi. Located in the French Concessions Area is Xintiandi, the ultimate car-free shopping, dining and entertainment area. Traditional Shikumen (stone gate) buildings have been turned into cafés and restaurants, bars and chic boutique stores. Translated as “new heaven and earth”, Xintiandi is a great place to soak in the historical and cultural elements of the city set amidst modernity.
• Shanghai Art Museum. From the outside, the building strikes an opulent modern pose but once inside, it is a sanctuary for ancient art appreciation. Take a look at the intricate beauty of thousand-year-old Chinese bronzes, sculptures, ceramics, jades, seals, calligraphies, coins and currencies, paintings, furniture as well as crafts of China’s ethnic minorities.
• Nanjing Road. A true shopping paradise! Nanjing Road is one of the world’s longest and most vibrant shopping districts, and a must-see for fashion shoppers and tourists! This 6km-long street is constantly buzzing with excitement all day, and when night falls, the vibrant lights from the stores and restaurants illuminate the street brilliantly.

Contest Mechanics

We are giving away one winner two tickets to Shanghai and two passes for the Shanghai. Please see details below.

• Travel must be done by the end of August
• AirAsia Philippines will only cover roundtrip tickets Manila-Shanghai. Winner will be responsible for the cost of securing Chinese Visa, accommodations and other travel expenses during the trip.
• To join the contest, you MUST follow the instagram accounts @ironwulf and @airasiaph
• Look for the AirAsia Philippines and Shanghai Disney Resort post and follow the instructions on what to comment.
• Contest runs from June 17 to midnight of June 19, 2016
• The winner will be contacted first to confirm if they can travel and will be announced on June 20, 2016
• The winner will be determing via Random.org

Essential Info for Chinese VISA

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Inside the Deluxe Suite room at Jupiter Suites

Makati is a prime location in Metro Manila. If you’re travelling and looking for a place to stay within this city, initial impression would be that it would be expensive. A bed alone at one of the hostels can cost Php 500–700 alone. But if you have a little more budget and yearning for more space than the four corners of a bed, it is worth checking out Jupiter Suites in Bel-air Makati. More than a decade of experience is its charm and ridiculously huge rooms as one of its key appeal.

Hotel lobby

Jupiter Suites Hotel

The facade may look outdated standing opposite the Petron gas station along Jupiter Street in Makati. Flanked by a number of fast food eateries including the Papa Johns Pizza on its street level, it may be even easy to miss. But finding and entering its unpretentious lobby, it is easy feel the warmth from the greetings of the staff at the reception. Jupiter Suites has been in the business for 15 years as I’ve learned. The core of its staff have even served since 10–11 years. Talk about dedication. But I guess this is a testimony of how the owners have taken their staff as well. And it does translate to how these people treat us customers – naturally friendly and accommodating.

My working table in the suite

Big Rooms

I was given room 203 and boy was it spacious. It is a 42sqm Deluxe Suite. So much space that I can place 3 additional mattresses and it would still have space to move around. The design is old school, a little on the vintage side but charming still. Not much view from my room since I was facing the opposite side of the building though. Much of the 25 rooms at Jupiter Suites is like this, roomy starting at 33sqm up to 42sqm. I like that I have a working table and desk, LCD TV with Cable TV, personal ref and decent WiFi access. Bathroom even has its own tub though toiletry isn’t complete. Bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste.

Jupiter Suites doesn’t have a full-service restaurant but has an informal dining cafe on the second floor to serve the complimentary breakfast. Though there are already a lot of dining options nearby, having breakfast offered in-house is quite convenient especially if one is still in PJs and is not in the mood to go out. They offer bacon and corned beef as options. And I’m o so glad they gave me brewed coffee, not that instant 3-in–1 that often upsets my tummy. If you are really lazy, breakfast can be served in-room too.

Jupiter Suites hotel facade

Value for Money

For a tried-and-tested hotel with years of experience, Jupiter Suites deliver on the bare essentials – great service, homey rooms with extra generous space and location that’s hard to beat. Checking their prices at Agoda, they are quite affordable too with rates around Php 1,500 to 2,500. Considering the location and size of the room, that offers great value. It’s ideal for business travelers and people in transit.

Jupiter Suites
102 Jupiter Street, Bel-Air, Village, Makati City, Philippines 1209
Tel. (632) 890.5044 to 50
Fax (632) 890.5019
Visit: www.jupitersuites.com.ph
Check Rates and Book Online

The large comfy bed

So much room I can do my yoga practice here

That’s a nice looking staircase

2nd floor breakfast dining area

Breakfast with brewed coffee

The post Stay | Jupiter Suites: Spacious Rooms at Affordable Prices in the Heart of Makati appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

Mt Mayon at the Albay Gulf

Albay has a special place in my childhood. I have fun memories of many summers spent in Albay. My mom hails in Daraga and we would visit her home often. No matter how long the drive, it’s always the majestic Mayon, the imposing Daraga Church and enjoyable time with cousins and siblings. My last visit though was drenched in tears like the heavy rain that poured upon us the day we said goodbye to my dearest lola (grandma). I was close to her. Relatives always say I’m her favorite apo (grandson). That was more than a decade ago. When an photo assignment from InFlight came recently, I thought I guess it’s time to come back. Not only to retrace the steps of my youth but to re-discover Albay.

At the moment. Finally heading back to my mother’s home town after more than a decade. #mtmayon on the horizon #travel #atm #enrouteph #bicol #albay #daraga #ontheroad #video

A video posted by Ferdz Decena (@ironwulf) on Aug 3, 2015 at 3:32am PDT

Drive to Albay

We took a 12-hour drive from Manila using the convenience of our vehicle. Stopping whenever we want wether for some interesting sights, hunger pangs or simple restroom breaks. The drive to Bicol was less cumbersome this time than I remembered. Most of the road now are paved making the travel a lot more comfortable and faster. Of course we passed by places I usually look forward to whenever I travel to Bicol, like the treacherous twisting turns of the Bitukang Manok (chicken intestine) road in Quezon, the breezy roadside eateries in Atimonan Quezon and the first glimpse of Mt Mayon’s conical grandeur in Polangui.

Albay is such a large province consisting of 18 municipalities. It is home to the iconic Mt Mayon and where concoction of fiery coconut infused dishes were born. Meals exploding with spiciness and aroma akin to how regular Mt Mayon has erupted to let out steam. Recently, Albay was included in UNESCO’s list of World Network of Biosphere Reserves last March 2016, citing the province as an example of sustainable development and biodiversity.

Morning at the Legazpi Boulevard

Legazpi Boulevard Mornings

First order in our first day of our work itinerary was to visit the Legazpi Boulevard. The 4.095km seawall and coastal road was inaugurated last 2009, quite a long time ago but it was new to my eyes. With the view of Mt Mayon and the sleeping lion hill they call Kapuntukan Hill along the cerulean waters of Albay Gulf, Legazpi Boulevard is undoubtedly one of the scenic boulevards in the country.

The early morning vibe was active and energetic. There were people jogging, biking or simply walking. We came a few days before a major triathlete event and encountered some of the participants training for the event. I’m impressed how lucid the waters along the port was. My amazement to both the athletes and how clean and pristine the surrounding was.

Kapuntukan Hill front of Mt Mayon

Triathletes young and old in training

Other triathlete ready to swim

Kids off to school

Daraga on the next page…

The post Bicol | Albay: A Ride to Reminisce appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.

One of the workers at an abaca furniture factory in Camalig Albay

If you’ve ever visited the furniture shop Crate and Barrel, chances are, you may have seen these finely crafted placemats, carpets, rugs or even some exquisite living room furniture pieces made from abaca (Manila hemp), rattan or nito. The prices here is a premium and it’s easy to conclude that most of them may be imported. Interestingly, when I visited Camalig, Albay’s Natural Carpet Industries,  I was surprised to see Crate and Barrel tags on the newly woven circular abaca placemats inside their 7,300 sq. m. factory. Those US$10 placemats at the shop can be bought here directly for only US$ 3. It just shows that the abaca industry is back in the limelight as one of the main export products of the country and can compete with international brands.

NCI’s showroom in Camalig

Natural Carpet Industries

I enjoy visiting factories such as the ones at Natural Carpet Industries in Camalig, Albay. Work places fascinate me as I have always been intrigued on how product pieces are put together. Their 100+ workforce may be busy but the workers seem to be at ease with what they are doing. Once in a while, chatting and joking with each other. Each person has a specialized task. From weaving the abaca fibers, to lightly burning the fabric for excess strands, painting some pieces and putting tags on each one of them. The value of these products are high as they are meticulously hand-crafted.

Removing the loose strands of fiber

Humble Beginnings

Abaca and rattan handicraft is a backyard industry in Bicol. It was in 1995 when Felipe Napa Jr started his small handicraft business named as Napa’s Handicraft using capital money by mortgaging his family’s properties. His perseverance rose through the local competition and eventually got his products to international stores like The Pottery Barn, The Gap and Muji in Japan. In 2014, Felipe Napa received the Outstanding Albayano Award for Decorative Arts.

I went back to the showroom and took a second look at the products inside the room with deeper appreciation. They look exquisite by themselves but seeing the work behind them makes them more valuable.

The growth of the company means more jobs to the community

Natural Carpet Industries

Zone 5, Brgy. Sumlang, Camalig, 4502, Albay
Contact: (02) 738–9963
Mobile: 0917.570.1830, 0932.811.1704
E-mail: napa_felipenoejr@yahoo.com

Basket weaving

Putting the basket handles

Crate and Barrel mats

Working on the huge carpets

Paying attention to the details and patterns

Finished products on display

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Breakfast at Sumlang Lake

The imposing Mt Mayon, from any angle in Albay looks picturesque but there are places that’s more conducive for gawking at its glory. Still in Camalig near the Natural Carpets Industries (NCI) workshop is Sumlang Lake. This 14-hectare lake used to be a carpet of lilies until the village residents decided to clean it up three years ago and uncovered its placid beauty. They saw the potential of its unobstructed view of Mt Mayon as the backdrop for this scenic lake. To this date, it is a rising destination in Albay, enjoying 300–500 visits on weekends.

Placid lake with parked balsa (bamboo rafts)

Sumlang Lake Reborn

Felipe Napa of NCI is also the village chief of Camalig, Albay. He helped adorn the lake with some of his outdoor rattan products and placed them on bamboo rafts. Some old metal barrels were also recycled to chairs for the free cottages. Truly a stylish and comfortable way to enjoy the view. But it was the bamboo raft race event in 2014 where Sumlang Lake got some buzz when it hosted the event. To date aside from the rattan outdoor furnitures, guest can rent the rafts to explore the lake. Prices differ on the size. The small ones for Php 25/hour and the larger ones can cost Php 200/hour that is good for 8–10pax. Kayaks and pedal-boats are also available to rent.

There are no entrance fees for Sumlang Lake but registration is required and optional donations are welcome. People are free to bring their own food for picnics like what we did during our shoot there for a prospective cover.

Rafts can be rented to explore the lake

Getting to Sumlang Lake

Sumlang Lake is only 300 meters from the National Highway and can be reached in 5 minutes from the town proper. Tricycles can take visitors to the lake from Camalig Church.

Coming from Legazpi or Daraga vans and jeeps pass by the area. Tell the driver to drop you off Albay Agri Ethno Eco Village ( Agri-Village ) in Cabangan, Camalig. From there you can walk the 300meters or ride a tricycle.

If you have your own vehicle, parking is available but limited.

Cooking on the raft

The post Albay | Scenic Stillness of Sumlang Lake in Camalig appeared first on Ironwulf En Route Travel Blog Philippines and Beyond.