Sculpture and one of the dining area in Ili-likha

From the outside, it looks like a run down dilapidated structure with an overgrown tree intruding its space at the entrance. Once we got inside, it’s like going through a rabbit hole and we were transported into a surreal otherworld. Almost amorphous and continuing to evolve into who knows what, Ili-likha Artist Village is a patch of creative space in the heart of the highly urbanized Baguio City. They are just a few steps away from the infamous Session Road.

Real tree branches

Love for Trees

Ili-likha Artist Village came from same mind who conceptualized the vegetarian restaurant “Oh My Gulay” – the film director and writer, Eric de Guia, commonly known as Kidlat Tahimik. From the copy found at the entrance of the establishment, Ili-likha Artist Village is all about honoring the trees and keeping the “woody Baguio”.

With that advocacy in mind, the establishment is built around trees, like a tree house, though more sophisticated in design and artistry. In one wall there are TV screen frames, then there’s the rainbow staircase made with tiles, then there’s the restroom divider made with bottles. There are so many details in this multi-level establishment that one has to look closely to notice. Even the chairs have characters in one chamber, old bikes adorn a pathway to a garden where a native Ifugao house, complete with skulls and native items can be found. It’s a treat not only for artist but photographers alike who enjoy artsy stuff as well.

Artistic corners

Healthy Food Hub

Similar to Oh My Gulay, Ili-Likha Artist Village is an advocate for healthy eating. There are no soda beverage available inside the establishment. Unlike OMG though, there is a community of food establishments in this village which they call Kiwing na Kahoy Kommunity Food Hub (KKK) and each of them have their specialty offerings from pastas, crepes (try Cafe Cueva) and even the southern Philippine dish, balbacua (try Balbacua by Urban Kamote). Aside from being healthy, the food are priced affordably as well making it a popular lunch place for students too.

Friendly no smoking sign

Evolving Village

Ili-Likha Artist Village just opened early this year 2014 and is still a work in progress. So don’t be surprised if you see some workers installing new “art” pieces in the establishment while eating, for sure though they won’t be a bother. I’m excited to see what form it would take, but for now I’m glad that there are places like this that brings awareness to the importance of our environment and healthy well-being. Do visit this one of a kind village when in Baguio City.

The village seen from the street

Ili-likha Artist Village
32 Assumption Road
Barangay Kabayanihan, Baguio City
Philippines
Operating hours: 7:00am to 8:00pm

One of the food establishments at Ili-likha

Old tv frames still of used and a rainbow colored tiled stairs

Recycled bottles as dividers

Colorful stairs and happy chairs

Old bikes used as railings

Beautiful sculptures of ifugao art

The post Baguio City | Ili-likha Artist Village: A Creative Surreal Space and Hub for Healthy Dining appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

After school plunge at Balyuan pier

Plunge boldly into the thick of life, and seize it where you will, it is always interesting.

I spent almost a week in Tacloban City recently for one of my commissioned assignments. It was my first time in the area and I was able to see how the city is recovering from last year’s Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) devastation. I talked to people, explored the city and observed how many foreign nationals are there for volunteerism projects and aids. While I liked the idea, it has also spiked the prices of establishments as they catering to these foreigners. Some families displaced by the typhoon are still living along the “No Build” zones. Even after a year their promised houses aren’t built yet but they noticed some local officials already have 3 brand new cars post-Yolanda. It is interesting to actually see and hear what’s really happening in the city. While I applaud how the city is picking up and is looking more promising in developments with better choices for hotels and restaurants, its sad that recovery is still in a very slow pace. I get the same sentiments from most people I’ve talked to that help comes directly from foreign and local NGOs than where it should be, the local government. Yes they get help, but not enough, not as promised.

Now, Tacloban City, still healing its wounds from Yolanda is now facing the threats of Typhoon Ruby along with its neighbouring eastern provinces.  I’ve witnessed that the people are more prepared now learning from last year’s lesson’s. They won’t take these warnings for granted this time and have started their preparations. But still we are praying that the storm wouldn’t be as devastating as last year’s Yolanda. For this week’s Nikon Shot, I took this photos of kids enjoying the small pier at Balyuan to refresh themselves at the sea after school. It’s just shows that despite what happened to Tacloban City, people, especially young ones, can look past at what happened and still enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

EXIF Info

• Aperture: ƒ/4
• Camera: NIKON D750
• Taken: 1 December, 2014
• Focal length: 24mm
• ISO: 400
• Shutter speed: 1/250s

The post Nikon Shot | Afternoon Plunge in Tacloban City appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

View from the Sapang Dalaga Shrine

“San po tayo papunta? Wala na po tayo sa road sa GPS map ko? Kala ko lake tong nasa kaliwa natin. Dagat na pala! (Where are we going? We’re far off the road from my GPS map. I thought this water on our left side was a lake. It turns out we’re near the sea already!)” I excitedly asked Mam Fe, the tourism officer of Sapang Dalaga in Misamis Occidental. Prior to my trip in this province, I never really did any research on the places to see here and just concerned myself with the lecture I did for the 9th Culinary Congress held in La Salle University in Ozamiz City. Since the event was over, we had a few days free to explore the province. The provincial tourism led by Sir Gain and Mam Pretzel, took us around to discover the attractions of the province. I just kept my mind open to what hidden gems they have and one municipality that clearly made a mark for me in terms of natural wonders is Sapang Dalaga. They got wonderful coastal scenery, breathtaking hills view and a beautiful waterfall that would surely attract nature lovers and adventurers.

Our seafood lunch prepared by the guy himself

Lunch on a Floating Cottage

It took us more than two hours (with a few stops along the way) to reach Sapang Dalaga from Ozamiz City. The municipality is located east of Misamis Occidental already near the border of Zamboanga del Norte. I kept tabs with my GPS on our location as we go on a winding uphill road until we reached the town proper of Sapang Dalaga where we met up with Mayor Manuel Animas and local tourism Mam Fe who would join us for lunch.

From the town center, our L300 vehicle got off the paved road and navigated a dirt road. I thought our elevation was getting higher but got surprised to see a body of water on our left side. From south, we were heading north of Sapang Dalaga and getting close to Casul Bay at Barangay Caluya. We headed straight to the pier and immediately boarded an outrigger for a short ride to one of the 3 floating cottages in the middle of the bay. I was amazed how clear the waters here are I could distinctly see the corals underwater. I wish we had more time here as I just wanted to jump in and snorkel.

Our lunch was a feast of seafoods from crabs, shrimps and spider shells they locally call Saang and some tasty fish catch they locally call kitong and sunghan. I asked the aged but nimble Mayor Manuel why the place is called “Sapang Dalaga” which in English means “Maiden by the creek”. He said that in the old times, even back in the Spanish era, the place has many maidens washing their clothes by the creek.

Lunch on the floating cottage was a great experience worthy of our long ride. I was told that rental of the cottage is Php500 for 24 hours and food like we had for lunch can be prepared for Php 500 which is good for 3 persons.

On an outrigger to and fro the floating cottage

On the outrigger with Mayor Manuel

Getting on the floating cottage

Our lunch Saang shells, kitong and sunghan fish, crabs and shrimps

The post Misamis Occidental | Wonders of Sapang Dalaga: From Scenic Hills to Alluring Waterfalls appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Night at the Sandbar

“Oooh! I got my own water dispenser in the room. That’s something new and unexpected for a place like this.” That was my first reaction when I saw my room at Sandbar Lepa Beach Hotel and Restaurant. Back in 2008, when I first visited Tawi-tawi, there were no cottages in this Sandbar Lepa beach. Only the lepa-styled (a house boat by the native Sama people) restaurant stood there since year 2000. Almost six years after, they now have a hotel and a huge convention hall.

At the Sandbar Lepa Beach

More than Comfortable Rooms

Sandbar Lepa Beach Hotel and Restaurant is far off from town, about 15-20 minutes tricycle ride to Baranggay Pasiagan. It’s quite popular among the locals since the place is quite scenic and has a nice beach. They do have gates now for security. The ground is large but not all is manicured yet. They got mushroom cottages for chilling out in the open and to enjoy the view of Bud Bongao at the background.

What was indeed a pleasant surprise were the rooms they have. They have detached cottages a few meters from the beach. Each cottage has amply spaced rooms with twin beds, large bathroom, own balcony, refrigerator, cable TV and water dispenser. They don’t have WiFi yet which is understandable since internet signal is quite weak for all telecoms when outside of town. But for Php 1,500/night for all this, it’s quite a good value.

The hotel cottages

Standard twin bed room

I got my own water dispenser and balcony

View from my room balcony

The post Tawi-tawi Stay | Sandbar Lepa Beach Hotel and Restaurant appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

A dilapidated house in Pasiagan

“Edit your life frequently and ruthlessly. It’s your masterpiece after all.”

This was one of the first few images I shot with the Nikon D7100. I liked it so much because of the simplicity behind it hence the title “Beauty in Simplicity”. I found this dilapidated house while walking the road stretch of Pasiagan, Tawi-tawi coming from Sandbar Lepa Beach Hotel to Beach Side Inn where I was billeted that time. I had to stop and try to compose something given that the afternoon sky is starting to show it’s color. Simply one of my personal favorites.

EXIF Info

• Aperture: ƒ/6.3
• Camera: NIKON D7100
• Taken: 25 September, 2014
• Focal length: 18mm
• ISO: 200
• Shutter speed: 1/250s

The post Nikon Shot | Beauty in Simplicity appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Landingan View Point Quirino

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”

This week’s Nikon Shot was taken just last week when I was in a tour with fellow travel bloggers to explore the province of Quirino. One of the striking scenery during our tour was this Landingan Viewpoint in Nagtipunan, Quirino. Beautiful ridge and a commanding view of Cagayan River cutting through the valley. This one was taken with a Nikon D7100. I used the HDR feature of the camera since I forgot to bring my GND filter during the trip. I thought the in-camera HDR did well in keeping things natural. OF course this one already went to my preferred post processing. Thank you very much to Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), DOT, Guys from Binary Digital, and the LGU of Quirino Province for that adventurous weekend. May thanks to my fellow travel bloggers Mica, Christian, Atty Julius, Eric, Edgar, Marky, Sinjin and the one on the photo Kara for being a willing model for this shot. Watch out for the Quirino post to follow early next year.

EXIF Info

• Aperture: ƒ/8
• Camera: NIKON D7100
• Taken: 14 December, 2014
• Copyright: www.ironwulf.net
• Focal length: 18mm
• ISO: 800
• Shutter speed: 1/250s

The post Nikon Shot | Landingan Viewpoint Quirino Province appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Paragliding in Carmona Cavite

It’s amazing how these pilots can figure the knot speed of the wind, the direction and the incoming weather disturbance on the horizon just by looking at this simple flying device flapping in the wind and hooked on the pole. “The conditions are ideal for flying” I heard one of the pilots say that morning. “Window is open. We’re ready to launch!” I heard a voice from a handheld transceiver radio. Soon I saw a wing spread up to the sky from a ridge and soon I saw some guy soaring in the sky. He was paragliding! We were at the Carmona Paragliding site to witness and experience the joys of flight just an hour away from Manila.

Me up in the air for a Tandem Paraglide (Photo by Kara of Travel Up)

Paragliding

It is one of those adventure sports in my bucket-list that I would like to try out at least once in my life. Paragliding isn’t as simple as opening a wing/chute, getting strapped into a harness and jumping aimlessly to catch a wind. As I’ve learned from, Buko Pie (As people fondly call him since he loves buko), the only certified paragliding instructor and a gold-medalist from the sport, paragliding entails discipline. To Buko, it is one of the safest adventure sport to try as long as the pilot is well disciplined. They have to undergo trainings and each flight is logged. The more the pilot knows the more they put safety in what they do.

Carmona flysite

Launching from the ridge

Look at the wing

Marky of NomadicExperiences on his tandem flight

Sir Rolly Magpayo carrying his equipment after landing

Actor Ian Veneracion joins in on the paragliding fun

The post Carmona Paragliding: Flying High near Manila appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Quirino Capitol Christmas Tree

There’s a certain sense of nostalgia finding a carnival behind our hotel in Quirino province. It’s like a throwback to my early years at home. When I was a kid, I revel at the sight of a small carnival being set up just in front of our building on a vacant lot. Oh we look forward to those tsubibo (small ferris wheel) rides, horror train and table games where we doesn’t seem to win. That vacant lot in the neighborhood is long gone and has been overtaken by buildings. A walk through the Paskohan sa Quirino in Cabarroguis town awakened that good old-feeling of Christmas. Simple pleasures of being with friends and family enjoying the bazaar, the rides and the company during the holiday season.

A church facade display for photo ops

Paskohan sa Quirino

Aside from the attractive Christmas lights and decors, the Paskohan sa Quirino, found at the track oval grounds of Cabarroguis, the Quirino Capital, brings together the different municipalities and showcases their delicacies and products. Of course there were rides and games at the carnival where people can enjoy but I was also amused with the different parols (Christmas lanterns) on display made with recycled materials. I was just impressed how they creatively thought and materialized these works using old plastic bottles and even used hospital materials.

I was just amused observing people in this part of the world. It doesn’t take a grand escape or monumental playground to put smile on their faces. I think Christmas should be simple. As cliche as it sounds, people this days get enwrapped with petty problems on which new gadget to spend their 13th months on, what presents to buy, or what grand feast to prepare. I don’t know but I’d rather spend a simple Christmas stripped off consumerist pleasures. Okay I would be a hypocrite not to say I enjoy gifts as well but I do enjoy company and laughter more. So to you my dear readers! Have a Blessed and Merry Christmas!!!

Christmas lantern display

A Santa Parol made from used medical items

More christmas lanterns made from recycled materials

The post Paskohan sa Quirino | A Good Old Christmas in Small Town Cabarroguis appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

On a small damaged pier in Tacloban

“A day is not always bright, and nights are not always dark. All that matters is what’s inside, because day and night are a reflection of you.” -Avantika

Tacloban was my last work assignment and it was a time when Typhoon Ruby was coming. Glad there were no major damages though this time. This was shot a few days before that storm. A small pier by Balyuan where people hang out in the afternoon. The breeze was pleasant, the waters still. Some students enjoy having a splash while the others take time to be still waiting for a fish to bite. Yes there are still edible fish there. Me, I just enjoyed people watching. Just sitting by the locals even if I don’t understand most of their conversations. This was shot with a Nikon D750.

EXIF Info

• Aperture: ƒ/4
• Camera: NIKON D750
• Taken: 1 December, 2014
• Focal length: 24mm
• ISO: 125
• Shutter speed: 1/25s

The post Nikon Shot | Waiting for the Bite appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

At the Z Pad Residences Mini

There used to be a time when GoHotels in Tacloban was the best looking hotel in the city. Now a quick search in hotel booking sites like Agoda would wound up at least 8 establishments with different types and price range. I was looking for a budget to mid-range priced accommodation and Z Pad Residences kept popping up. So why not stay for a couple of days there and see what the place is like after a year Typhoon Yolanda struck.

Elegant common area in a unit

Stylish Serviced Apartment

Z Pad Residences is unlike a usual hotel accommodation. Their “Home-type” style is liked a shared apartment or condo unit. There are 34 rooms of 7-type accommodations. So unless one gets the whole unit of 2–3 beds with common room via their Deluxe Suite or Z Suite the other accommodations like the Z Pad Mini, Single, Twin and Queen shares a unit with other guest.

I must say the idea of sharing a “unit” with strangers feels like a hostel but an upscale one. Each room have their own private bathroom, aircon and widescreen Cable TV. The doors are securely locked with a keycard so no once can enter the rooms. The common living room area and kitchen is quite elegant and classy in design and interior. Guest for the unit can hangout in this area if they want to socialize with other guests. During my stay though I didn’t get to meet any of my condo-mates even if I used the common area when I work. Oh, the free internet/WiFi here is extremely fast.

Passage to the rooms

Z Pad Mini Room

I was traveling on a limited budget so I tried their cheapest room which is the Z Pad Mini. And oh boy it was a shoe box. At 10sqm its just amazing how they try to fit everything there. I must give props to Z Pad Residences though on how they made this shoe box look presentable. But this really is for solo travelers. My bags barely fits the space and the bathroom was clearly just a glass division which is just hilarious for me.

I did see the other rooms like the Z Pad Queen which is a lot bigger but yes you have to pay higher. The Z Pad Single is only 1sqm larger so there was no sense of upgrading for me.

Look how they fitted the bathroom in my Z Pad Mini

Z Pad Residences Experience

The Z Pad Residences is one of the good looking accommodation in Tacloban City. It’s location is out of town about 5km away from the city center. The design is modern and upscale. The place is also secured with gates. Personally for a solo traveller on a budget, I find my money’s worth staying in town is much better. There are better (bigger and cheaper) rooms in town than their cheapest Z Pad Mini. In town, I can easily just walk my way to numerous eateries unlike here where I just have a fast food chain nearby. I had to ride into town if I want variety. However, if you’re in a group, the Z Pad Suites are of much better value as the whole unit is occupied by familiar people.

Z Pad Residences
Dadison St (Former Pericohon St) Beside Bethany Hospital
Contact: (053) 520.8888

Check Rates and Book Online

The 3-story residences building

The small reception area

Branded toiletries

Small bedside desk

The post Tacloban Stay | In a Z Pad Residences Mini appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Primrose Hotel and Etsu Hotel in Tacloban City

More than a year after Typhoon Yolanda struck Tacloban City, the city looks like it is still going back on its feet. Standing up is a slow process though as until now many establishments are still undergoing renovations. I wasn’t expecting much on some of the old established hotels here but the disaster could also mean a fresh start for them. I stayed at two more Tacloban stay within the city Primrose Hotel and Etsu Hotel aside from the one in the fringes Z Pad Residences. Here’s my take on these two city hotels.

My bed at Primrose Hotel

Primrose Hotel

I didn’t have any reservations when I came in Tacloban City. While I have my list of preferred lodgings I found out that most of them are booked already when I came. I also came in a time when there was a scheduled power outage. Lugging in my bags in the street of Tacloban city, my tired feet brought me to doorsteps of Primrose Hotel. I checked their rates which were acceptable at Php 1100 for a single room with aircon or Php 800 for a fan room. They have electricity from a generator which was a good sign since most of the lodging I checked didn’t have one. I took the aircon one after checking out the room.

Nice working desk

The Single Bed

As expected, renovations are undergoing within the building especially on the lower floor where flooding may have gone through. I was at the 4th floor and there are no elevators so this could be a downside to some. For me I didn’t mind the stairs though. The room has a good size with ample space to move around. I like that there’s a closer and a desk again. Bathroom is large with hot water. Bed is also big but linens and towels are on the thin side. The whole room is quite clean and there was running electricity as well. Cable TV works fine and aircondition is cooling properly.

There is no Wifi in the room, only at the lobby. Good thing mobile internet signal from my room is quite strong. But what I do like is that they have water dispenser on every floor. It’s always a plus for me if there are water stations available on a hotel.

Water dispenser on each floor and a couch. Probably when you get tired with the stairs

Stay Impressions

Primrose Hotel was an okay stay. My rooms was clean and comfortable but I do have to do quite a stair climb to get there. Staff were okay but a little impersonal but they do assist on the luggage. Many hotels in Tacloban has this pay-per-day-stay policy and Primrose Hotel is one of them. I do have to give big points on the location. It is at the heart of the city where most of the important location are just a walk away – the banks, market, transport terminal and eateries. Would I stay here again? Probably.

Primrose Hotel
Corner Salazar and Zamora Streets, Tacloban City
Contact: (053) 321.2248, 0915.341.3890

The hotel lobby

The post Tacloban Stay | Budget Stays at Primrose Hotel and Etsu Hotel appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

The village of Fang-arao and the Maligcong Rice Terraces

I remember spending my first sunrise of the year 2014 on top of Mt Kofafey. Basking in the view of a sea of clouds unraveling before my eyes to reveal the Maligcong Rice Terraces below was just a magical moment that opened up the year. I knew someday I promise to be back. A few months later I kept my promise. This time I brought along my friends with me see this destination in Cordilleras I have been raving about. And also to see the Maligcong Rice Terraces in its evergreen state.

Walk on the road to Maligcong

Back at Suzzete’s Homestay

I spent almost a week in Bontoc after my first half-marathon trail run in Batad a few days before. I decided to wait here for my friend’s arrival from Manila instead of riding back. When they came, we boarded the jeep to Maligcong. The road at that time was being paved so we had to alight halfway, walk some distance and ride again to Suzette’s place. But we didn’t mind the walk as the view was already a glimpse, a tease for that matter, of things to come.

It was wonderful to be at Suzette’s Homestay again. To see her adorable kids and uber friendly mixed-breed pet dog, Kunig. Kunig got so much attention from the dog-lovers in us. There were also some new lounge chairs by the balcony overlooking the mountains. Everyone took their places at the balcony and enjoyed the nippy weather and some native brewed coffee.

Kunig the dog enjoying the view at Mt Kofafey

Climbing Mt Kofafey with Kunig

Much like my first climb, we were already up at 4am. My previous guide Ezra have school duties so we were guided by husband and wife, Mang Clemens and Ate Tina. And to our unexpected delight, Kunig came along with us all throughout. He was just amusing on the trail as if he was keeping watch over us, stopping at the front waiting for us to keep up. At times he would be at the back like a sweeper and the surprise the people at the middle of the pack by abruptly appearing behind the woods. Even at the summit, Kunig seemed to marvel at the sight as well. Who wouldn’t? Maligcong Rice Terraces in its shifting greens is different altogether. The vivid greens from the farthest Favuyan and the recently harvested Fang-arao. They have different planting and harvesting seasons here.

Mang Clemens and Ate Tina prepared our coffee while we went shutter crazy every rise and fall of the clouds. It was nature’s cinema at its finest. Maybe we also gave them some “Me” time as we wandered off nearby hills. We stayed probably three hours before we headed back.

The village of Favuyan with clouds

Our guides, husband and wife, Clemens and Tina

Kunig, named from the place, Makunig, our trail guide dog

Distant hills, trees and passing clouds

On our way down

The post Bontoc | Return to Mt Kofafey and Maligcong Rice Terraces in Shifting Greens appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Seda Nuvali at night

It’s familiar earth colors of brown, black and white on the modern-themed building is a distinctive character of a Seda Hotel. Easily recognizable from afar as we drove in from a distance as it mirrors the one at the heart Bonifacio Global City. This lifestyle chain-hotel is standing in the midst of the burgeoning development of the eco-city, Nuvali. I’ve often passed by this place en route to Tagaytay and Batangas and I was just in awe of the fast-paced development since last I went through here. I couldn’t almost recognize the place. Nuvali, in Sta Rosa, Laguna is now a destination itself, not just a transit stop and Seda Nuvali is ready to cater to guest, weather business or leisure, to experience living in this eco-city.

One of the EvoLakes in Nuvali viewed from my room window

Nuvali Evoliving

It’s hard not to talk about Nuvali when we talk about Seda Hotel Nuvali as it is integrated in this massive 66-hectare land development from AyalaLand. There were actually many terms thrown at us during our brief tour of at the Evoliving Center which houses the office. There’s the Evozone and there’s the Evotech as well as I understand is the business district. Just to keep it simple Nuvali is a cohesive development between community and nature. As we do a cursory tour, I’m actually impressed by the wide open spaces, density of trees, organized roads with bike lanes,  recreational centers like the wakeboarding, lots of trails for bikes and runners and also the commercial centers which includes their very on Solenad 1 and 2. Personally everything is well-planned and we could see this city shaping up well as intended.

Seda Nuvali’s hotel building

Seda Nuvali

Nuvali is really an ideal place to live-in I may say, but for us outsiders who just want to experience just experience eco-city living and enjoy part of their facilities, there’s Seda Nuvali. This 150-bedroom hotel was recently opened March 2014. Expect the trademark quality from its other branches like Bonifacio Global City, Davao Abreeza and CdeO Centrio. Modern and hip, Seda Hotels stylish interiors are accentuated by contemporary artworks like the multi-functional works by Ann Pamintuan like the helixes warped into a chair at the lobby and the wonderful cocoon chairs facing the lake. At the corridors are large monochrome prints of Paco Guerrero. I like these creative touches.

Hotel lobby with that Ann Pamintuan chair

Corridors adorned with Paco Guerrero’s large monochrome photos

Beautiful wall with Ann Pamintuan sculpture by the stairs

Appreciating the fine details

These cocoon chairs also by Ann Paminutan are surprisingly comfy. Nina, Kara, Mica and Christian can attest

The post Laguna Stay | Seda Nuvali: The Eco-city Lifestyle Hotel appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Mornight at Lingayen Pangasinan

There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars.

It was just last weekend when I got invited to stay for a night in Lingayen, Pangasinan. It was an invitation hard to pass as the last time I was in this area was during a Lakbay Norte tour. It was an easy, sort of laid back escape spending most of our time at this wonderful resort called El Puerto Marina Resort and got to see the preparation for the 70th Anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Allied Force Landing. The weather was just wonderful that time, cold, sky was clear amidst the partial full moon brightening up the landscape. I missed the milky way that I wanted to shoot so I just waited for the sunrise. I really like the beach in Lingayen. It may be gray but it was really wide and the sand was really fine. It was really pleasant to walk around barefoot. With time in my hands, I had some crazy idea popped into my head and shot this one. This Nikon Shot was to document the surreal morning experience I had with this wonderful morning landscape while I Spotify at the “Smooth Morning” playlist. Shot with the Nikon D7100, check out the settings below.

EXIF Info

• Aperture: ƒ/4
• Camera: NIKON D7100
• Taken: 9 January, 2015
• Copyright: www.ironwulf.net
• Focal length: 10mm
• ISO: 800
• Shutter speed: 30s

The post Nikon Shot | Waiting Under the Stars appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

The pool at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Cabarroguis

Quirino, a land-locked province in Cagayan Valley is partly a mystery to me. I haven’t been in that area so I was excited to join a familiarization tour to “Discover the Undiscovered”. A fitting slogan really as there is little written about this province. Underrated perhaps? A flight to Cauayan, Isabela then a 1.5 hours road-trip took us to Cabarroguis, the capital of Quirino Province. There, the Capitol Plaza Hotel and Restaurant, was our home for three nights.

Simple hotel lobby

Government Run Hotel

For a place like Quirino, which sees little tourist at this time, one must not expect much in terms of luxurious accommodations. Capitol Plaza Hotel and Restaurant, a 2-star type hotel in my standards may be the best already in the area. It has 3 floors, 17 rooms of different type (twin beds, queen beds and family type rooms), conference area, a restaurant and a pool. Quite popular with the locals I guess for events and occasions. There’s also WiFi at the lobby so its ice to hang out at the restaurant.

The hotel has been around for a while built around late 2000 but renovated just three years ago. It has an interesting government-building type design with doric columns at the facade and rear and white-washed walls. At the stairs, there are photos of the different attractions found in Quirino, makes a good excuse to rest and stop to appreciate the display. Each level also has a common living area.

The 2 queen size bed room

The Room

Since I was with a group, we had a huge family room at the 3rd floor with two queen sized bed and an extra mattress. We also had a nice balcony overlooking the pool, the plaza grounds and the Capitol. It was Christmas time when we visited so we got to see the colorful Paskohan from the 3rd floor. Aircon works well in cooling up the room. There’s a nice round table inside where fellow bloggers work on and some cabinets in the room. There was cable TV but none of us were interested that much to watch.

The view from our balcony

Summary

We had a nice stay at Capitol Plaza Hotel and Restaurant. Nothing fancy but all is well-kept clean and basic for a comfortable stay and good night’s sleep. We also enjoyed the pool which they have in luxury for guest. Locations is also good as it is near a bank, the capitol and some eateries. It’s a good choice to stay in Quirino.

Hotel facade

Capitol Plaza Hotel and Restaurant
Capitol Compound, San Marcos,
Cabarroguis, Quirino Province 3400
Contact: 0915.352.3963, 0915.267.79.81
email: cphr_capitol@yahoo.com, cphrcapitol@gmail.com

Rates (with breakfast included):

• 2 queensize bed (4pax) – Php 1,900
• 2 single beds (2pax) – Php 1,200
• 1 queen size bed (2pax) – Php 1,200
• Double deck (dorms 8/10pax) -Php 400/night

Restaurant interior

The post Quirino Stay | Capitol Plaza Hotel and Restaurant in Cabarroguis appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Beautiful Dahican Beach in Mati

I like places that surprise me. At times I would go to a destination not knowing what to expect. Yes I would have an idea or two but finding out there’s more when I get there is always exciting. Mati City in Davao Oriental is one of those places that has a surprising development. Typhoon Pablo battered, it has recovered quite well. Aside from the purple bannered buildings that rose from the rubble, its Dahican Beach has been the top draw in the province.

Pristine and tropical

Dahican Beach

I heard it was good, but in actuality Dahican Beach in Mati is just gorgeous! Extensive creamy white sand so fine that its a pleasure to walk bare feet. Its 17-km stretch is so picturesque, very tropical with coconut trees on the fringe still a plenty. Yes there are resorts but they are widely spaced apart that they are not, at the moment an eyesore. And oh that wonderful ocean hues, a gentle contrast that’s soothing to the eyes.

“Mga five years ago, kami kami lang ang andito (About five years ago, we were the only ones here)” Says Pedro, an avid skim boarder already a little over quarter of his life. He admits that he has taken in the sport a little late but has not regretted getting into skim boarding. Dahican Beach is the home for the Amihan Boys (and girls), a group of spirited young individuals who have the common passion for skim boarding and the free and easy way of life by the beach. Their Amihan sa Dahican is an ideal place to learn how to skim board (and in good season, to surf) as they have able instructors and who knows you might get inspired by the international skim board sensation Sonny Boy “Bayogyog” Aporbo who skim boards here every morning as his daily ritual.

The Amihan sa Dahican have also shown concern for the environment. Just beside their hut is a turtle nest sanctuary. Securely fenced for poachers. Dahican Beach is favorite nesting ground for turtles.

Thriving skim boarding scene

I Love Mati signage

Turtle nest sanctuary

Photo op with the Amihan sa Dahican boys and girls

Sprinting for the drop

More skim board action

The post Davao Oriental | Dazzling Dahican Beach and Mati City appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

The Standard Room at Heritage Mansion Hotel

It was a case of an unfortunate event that led me to stay in this old family mansion now called the Heritage Mansion Hotel in Baguio City. I had a booking in another hotel but they overbooked the rooms so I was moved here without extra cost in my part. A sort of an upgrade since it the rooms there were a lot more expensive than the one I booked and its much closer to the city center which I liked.

The hotel lobby with the grand staircase

Heritage Mansion Hotel

The recently refurbished mansion was converted into a hotel a few years back but it was also recently that the management has changed (if I wasn’t mistaken). This old Colonial Revival Style mansion of the 1920s was built in the 1930 by the Muller Family (Pioneers John and Laney Muller). It survived the carpet bombings of World War II and the major earthquake that struck in 1990. It is one of the well-preserved mansions in Baguio.

My bed and lamp

Old Charm with Modern Amenities

From the facade, the hotel looks elegant. The lobby is spacious and warmly inviting. The staircase which is the centrepiece of the mansion is just wonderful and does harken to the opulence of Old Baguio. I was booked on one of the Standard Rooms located at the 3rd floor. It’s like an attic converted to a room. It only has a shared bathroom but since there weren’t many people booked there I didn’t mind since it’s also just outside my room door.

My room room looks fancy. I like the stack-of-books-style lamps, the large 32-inch LED TV and cleanliness of the room. The wifi in my room is a bit inconsistent though and that creaky flooring is bothersome I try to walk silently in the corridors. The shared bathroom is big and clean with running hot water as well.

The shared bathroom

Summary

My 2-night unexpected stay at Heritage Mansion Hotel was a welcome surprise during my trip to Baguio. For those who want to experience living in a well preserved Heritage house, this would be a great option. It’s at the center of town near Burnham Park, lots of eating options nearby including their concessionaire, Solibao Restaurant in the mansion. I had a good night’s sleep here and definitely enjoyed inspecting the wonderful details of the house.

At the second floor overlooking the lobby

Heritage Mansion Hotel
Kisad Road thru Abanao Extension
Baguio City
Contact: (074) 445.2046

Check Rates and Book Online

Hotel facade at night

The post Baguio Stay | Heritage Mansion Hotel: Old Charm with Modern Comfort appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

One of the chambers of Aglipay Cave with impressive stalactites

If this is how it feels to crawl out of a womb, I can clearly understand why babies cry out once their out in the open – its a cry of relief after squirming through a hole that can barely fit a person of average size there. We were at the second chamber of Aglipay Caves in Quirino Province, about half-way through our adventure in a network of chambers that let us squeeze through crack entrances, do duck-walks on low ceiling passages and negotiate slick and muddy trails in pitch black environs. But hey we’re not complaining, aren’t we here for the thrill?

Huge area at the first chamber

Aglipay Cave Network

Aglipay Cave is found 10km from the captial of Quirino, Cabarroguis. It was in 1983 when  was discovered. Since then, 37 cave chambers were documented, eight of them were thoroughly explored and about four are open for public exploration. The 101-hectare area were the cave was found was developed as the Aglipay Cave and Campsite with facilities for camping, trekking and nature walks including birding. There were 27 species of birds found in the area including the endemic kalaw (a species of hornbill). At that time, the facilities needs some overhaul but with the province’s active tourism promotion, we were assured improvements are on their way.

The low-passage duck-walk area

Chambers of Fun Challenges

How can I describe Aglipay Cave? It’s one of those caves that you should expect to get real dirty. and ready for some challenging physical activity. Aglipay Cave has such a large variety of chambers. While it’s not as as pristine as other caves I’ve been to, there are sections of brilliance in terms of rock formations. The fun in this cave really is going through different passages that will challenge visitors. From huge open chambers, there were really low passages that require people either duck-walk and crawl through a few meters. There were even a couple of small openings that requires proper technique to go through despite one’s size. And hey, challenging how tough one’s nerves on climbing a steel ladder a few meter’s high with unfathomable drop on one side to exit the cave takes crazy guts. Every one emerged from the cave a couple of hours later all with a sigh of relief and smiles. Yes we survived and most with the sentiments “Hey that was fun!” Dare say you try?

Exit from chamber one

Essential Info

To arrange a tour of Aglipay Cave it is best to coordinate with the Tourism Office of Quirino province. Contact Ms Aurea Martinez (0917.416.5945). Before going to Aglipay Cave, there are things you must know:

• Always get a local guide. Aglipay Cave is a large network of chambers and one can get easily lost. There is no standard fee for a guide yet but Php 250 would be reasonable unless you add your own tip.
• There’s an Environmental Fee of Php 25 upon entrance.
• Bring spare clothes. It can get real dirty when exploring the cave but visitors can rinse with clean water and change.
• Bring a torch. While the guides have powerful torches to use, it always helps to have your own light.
• Bring minimal gear and waterproof them. Aside from the mud it can get wet as well from drips and puddles in the cave. If you are bringing a camera, it is best to bring only the lens you need and a padded case. Also, bringing less gear would be easier when squeezing through small holes.

Climbing the steel ladder to exit the final chamber

Mica inside the nostril chambers

Impressive natural long cave hallway

Group hug inside Aglipay Cave

The post Quirino | Aglipay Cave: Where Getting Down and Dirty is Part of the Fun appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

The Junior Suite Room at Fersal Hotel Palawan

The independent city of Puerto Princesa has developed quite well to cater to the booming tourist magnet that is Palawan. After a number of international publications have thrown high praises to the island’s many stunning natural wonders, Palawan has gotten a steady growth of tourist coming in. Major hotels now stand to cater to different segments. And one easy access just coming out of the Puerto Princesa International Airport is Fersal Hotel Puerto Princesa branch. It’s so close I just walked to the exit with my baggage and crossed the street to get there. How convenient.

The hotel lobby

We Mean Business

Fersal Hotel Puerto Princesa is one of its many chain branches in the country. One common key aspect from all their hotels is their location which is conveniently located to business districts and establishments. Fersal Hotel Puerto Princesa is no different. It’s just outside the airport along Rizal Avenue extension, the most happening area in the city with most of the businesses and popular eating establishments are found.

The hotel is a five-story building. The hotel restaurant, Inn Cafe is at the ground floor along with offices for a travel agent and a small spa. I really like the native decorations at their lobby. Second floor has a conference room, a small patio, and a basic gym. The main rooms are at the third floor up. I like that there’s a secured door at the second floor stairway leading to the third floor that only room key holders can access. The common area each floor also has a hot water dispenser which is a nice touch. I could also see a lot of routers strategically placed within the building to enable WiFi access to most areas of the hotel. I did find their WiFi reliably fast which is a must to any hotels leaned towards business travelers.

The Inn Cafe

Inn Cafe

The Inn Cafe is the hotel restaurant. They have good local and international offerings throughout the day. I ordered grilled tuna and fries for lunch and it was good. Buffet breakfast is also in this area. Breakfast has decent offering. I like that they have their local danggit (salted and dried rabbitfish) served that days I stayed.

Grilled fish with vegetables and fries for lunch

The hotel along Rizal Avenue extension

The lobby lifts common area

Second floor patio

Stairs to the second floor

The mini-gym in the hotel

The hotel corridor

More at the next page…

The post Palawan Stay | Fersal Hotel Puerto Princesa: Smart and Convenient appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.

Facade of the Jimenez Church

It took us two trips to fully inspect and really appreciate this marvellous Jimenez Church particularly named San Juan Bautista Church. The day before, we passed by this church in haste after a tour of Oroquieta City. It was late afternoon and the church was closed. I wasn’t satisfied seeing just the faced. My fellow travel blogger, Apple of Sole Searching Sole had the same sentiments that we should get back here the next morning. It was a good decision lest we’ll miss one of the most beautiful and well preserved in the island of Mindanao.

One of the best preserved Spanish Churches in Mindanao

A Cultural Treasure

It’s hard to let the opportunity of seeing the Jimenez Church pass by knowing it was declared a National Cultural Treasure in July 31,2001 by the National Museum and one of the 26 Spanish Colonial Era churches under the conservation program of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). This baroque church was constructed on an upper hill of the town in 1862, initiated by the Augustinian Recollect, Father Roque Azcona. Construction was believed to have been finished sometime in the late 1880s.

Wonderful church interior from the floor tiles, wooden columns and ceiling paintings

Protected and Conserved

We had to ask permission from the caretaker to have the church opened when we went there the next day. The caretaker said there were already important items looted and stolen from the church already so they have to keep it locked most of the times. I’m not fully knowledgeable on church heritage but I know aesthetics when I see one. The ceiling paintings where I didn’t hesitate to lie on the floor to take pictures and appreciate were painted on canvas sometime 1898 and pasted on the wooden roof. The dome paintings were particularly impressive.

The caretaker also took us to the second floor to view the steel pipe organ installed by Father Constancio Asencio after the church completion around 1891. Up on the roof, the caretaker also showed us the original tile roofings covered by the steel roofing for protection.

We were glad we decided to visit the Jimenez Church again and able to see its features that made it an important heritage to the country. One of the attractions and gems of Misamis Occidental.

Beautiful ceiling paintings

Original steel pipe organ installed in 1891

Closer look at the ceiling and higher view of the church

The bell tower and one of the old cracked bell

Original wooden stairs to the bell tower

Another view of the Jimenez Church on the bell tower side

The post Misamis Occidental | The Astonishing Jimenez Church appeared first on Ironwulf En Route - The Philippines Travel and Photography Blog.