..Coron: Bulog Dos, Banana and Malcapuya Island..

Day 3 in Coron is much exciting because this time we'll be going out to open sea.  Before leaving Coron town my mother called me to inform that a storm signal is raised to Palawan but the weather of Coron permits us to go. Due to our excitement we left our snorkels to the tric :( glad people there help us chase the tric and brought our snorkel back and because of that we are 1 hr behind our schedule. We requested Kuya Oliver to be our tour guide for this trip.

A two hour boat ride took us to our first destination, Bulog Dos Island it a small island with fine sand and clear water. There is a sandbar connected to the island nearby during low tide however its just before noon when arrive so the sandbar is covered with ankle deep water. We just stayed there for about half an hour walking on the shore and took some pictures because there are no shed to stay on the island.

..Welcome to Bulog Dos Island..

..Sandbar covered with ankle deep water..

Next stop is the Banana Island, located in Bulalacao Coron. We stayed there for our lunch, sieta and of course snorkeling. Island is very beautiful and very relaxing. I fell in love with the island right after I took my first step there. I can say this is my favorite island among the three though they have their own beauty.

Our delicious lunch is prepared by our boatman, Kuya Dennis. Right after the lunch Kuya Oliver showed us the best spot for snorkeling, though its noon time it will not stop us to see the beauty underneath Banana Island that not all tourist saw. After snorkeling, the hammocks are very encouraging for an afternoon siesta. We stayed there, relax and enjoy the beauty of the island has to offer.

Our last stop is Malcapuya Island, it has a long stretch virgin beach with powdery white sand and clear water. The temperature is very hot when we arrive at the island so we've decided to relax and explore the not so developed island. 

There are hammocks on island for relaxing below the coconut trees. We want to buy some coconut but there were no available that time.

We just relax there and watch the water flowing on the shore and after some time we just can't watch the water. Though its hot because its already afternoon, we just can't resists the beach encouraging us to try. So we dip, imagine us swimming at around 2 pm in the afternoon.  

During island exploration we found a cliff, its overlooking the other islands of Coron. A breathtaking view of the sea, islands and the sky.

As much as we wanted to stay longer on the island, we cannot because people from the Coron town are informing our boatman to return due storm sensed coming. So its better for us to return than to be trapped on the island.

Our travel to Coron is one of a kind and I together with my travel buddy will surely come back to this paradise someday ^__^. See you on our next trip... But don't forget to have some souvenir shirt.

My Travel Buddy and My Partner

Tour Package Contact:
Coron Wonders
Email: coronwonders@gmail.com
Cell #: +63-9095432824/+63-9178136159


Date: December 16, 2012

..Coron Islands in its own unique Beauty..

This is my most awaited trip in Coron, the Island Hopping simply because it's my first time to do an island hopping and my first snorkeling trip ^_^. Coron Palawan trips is typically an island hoping trip because Coron is a home to some world's gorgeous beaches and corals. Coron's beauty are found beneath the water's surface. Coron is a treat to traveler who are into snorkeling, diving and nature tripping.

Our tour started at 8:30 AM in the morning, they picked up at the hotel lobby and brought us to Coron pier where a pump boat is waiting for us. Our tour guide for the day is Kuya Oliver and Kuya Dennis. We bought some biscuits for fish feeding and don't forget to bring snorkels or rent one because you'll gonna miss a lot in this tour if don't have one.

Ready for the Island Hopping

Our first island to meet is the Siete Picados, it is a group of seven peaks and home to coral and coral fishes. Our boat dock at center of seven rock peaks, allowing us to do snorkel and explore the fishes and corals underneath. We don't stay long on that place due to fast current. 

Siete Picados

Coron View during Island Hoping

Next is the Kayangan Lake and Cave, it is said to be the cleanest lake in Asia and one of the several hidden lakes you'll find within the islands of Coron. A 10 minute hike via carved path on tropical trees will bring you to the cleanest lake in the Philippines. The water is very clear and calm, a perfect combination of warm seawater and cold mountain springs which reduces its salinity. But before going to the lake we go first to the cave and see the great view at the top of mountain. This view is the most photographed place in Coron Palawan.

Kayangan Lake

Barracuda Lake is next, it is surrounded by tall walls of limestone formation. Its the best place to dive and snorkel to see the rock formation below. Kuya Oliver brought us in a small cave and watch him dive and explore the cave underwater. As per Kuya Oliver, Barracuda Lake water is composed of three layer, bottom layer is sea water, middle layer is geothermal heated brackish water and the top layer is freshwater.

Barracuda Lake

We took our lunch at a small private beach, Smith Beach. Its very small and I can say that the shore is approximately 15 to 20 meters long. We swim on the shore and took some rest after eating grilled parrot fish(a fish with a rainbow color on its body). Its my first time to eat that fish but its very delicious ^_^.

Smith Beach

A delicious Parrot fish(below one)

After lunch our next stop is Twin Lagoon, it is a two lagoon separated by a wall of limestone. To be able to see the inner lagoon you must swim or float on a small hole opening during low-tide or one must be a good diver to see it during high-tide. Since its low tide kuya Oliver told us to float on the small opening though I'm a bit scared and not a swimmer but I tried because I want to see the beauty of the inner lagoon :P. The temperature of outter lagoon is cooler than the inner lagoon. Upon entering the inner lagoon I was amazed, the water is calm and blue, its like your on a different world surrounded by limestone and trees. Its a relaxing place though I don't have a camera to capture the beauty of inner lagoon.

Twin Lagoon: A view from the outer lagoon

Final Island is the Skeleton Wreck, is a snorkeling and diving spot where you can see a sunken ship and around it are several corals but kuya Oliver warns us of the sea urchins. Our boat dock right above the sunken ship we stared to do snorkeling and feed the fish. We also took our snack on that area.

Skeleton Wreck

Its a very tiring but worth it to see the beauty of Coron.One thing I regret in this trip is that we don't have an underwater camera to capture the beautiful scenes underwater. But the scene I see and my experience is beyond my expectations ^_^. The next time I visit Coron I promise to bring an underwater camera.


Tour Package Contact:
Coron Wonders
Email: coronwonders@gmail.com
Cell #: +63-9095432824/+63-9178136159


Date: December 15, 2012

..Coron Town Tour..

Coron Island Palawan is a limestone island and known for its cleanest lake in the Philippines, the Kayangan Lake. Its crystal clear water is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and diving. Those are some of the reason why we decided for our next trip is Coron ^_^. This time we get a tour package from Coron Wonders since most of our activities are island hoping. Upon arriving at Coron we headed straight to our hotel, Island View Inn located at middle of the town and just a walk away from the church, plaza, market, banks and other establishments. Also they have a roof deck restaurant overlooking the Coron Bay.

Our tour started with Town Proper Familiarization with Kuya Edward our tricycle driver and tour guide, he showed us the the municipal hall, the church, plaza, market and Coron bay. We had our snack at the Coron Bay and ate some dirty ice cream ^^. There we took a some picture of the place.
  

Coron Municipal Hall

Next stop is Mt. Tapyas, Kuya Edward dropped us there to conquer the popular and the second highest place in Coron. We have to climb 720++ steps to reach the top and don't forget to bring water, lots of water. Way to Mt. Tapyas is well developed its has a concrete steps and rails, it also have several benches to take some rest when going up or down. At the top you will see a huge steel white cross and a panoramic view of whole Coron town. We started our trekking before 5PM and I can say its the best time to go there because we were able to see the breathtaking and stunning view of the sunset at Coron. Its really worth it going up so I suggest to include it to your Coron visit.

Cross at the top of Mt. Tapyas

After the trekking at Mt. Tapyas, it best to close and pamper the day at Maquinit Hot Spring. It is about 30 minutes away from the town proper, the pool is very hot at the first dip and the water is salty. But its very relaxing when you have dip your whole body. The sun is already set when we arrive at the hot spring so we are not able to see the view of Mangroves surrounding the place. We took our dinner prepared by the Coron Wonders and spend an hour of the night dipping our body at the hot spring. Its so very relaxing ^_^ after that we went to our hotel to take some rest and prepare for our Island Hopping tomorrow. 

Maquinit Hot Spring

 

Next post is the different Islands of Coron.

Tour Package Contact:
Coron Wonders
Email: coronwonders@gmail.com
Cell #: +63-9095432824/+63-9178136159

Date: December 14, 2012

..Camiguin: White Island and Katibawasan Falls..

Time really fly so fast it's the last day for our 2011 summer vacation in Northern Mindanao. But like I always said "save the best for last", this is the main reason why went to Camiguin to see the White Island. Yesterday when we arrived in Camiguin we are very eager to go to white island, but Rhea insisted to see it early in the morning. Our night were spend at Pabua's Cottage, just a few steps away from the boat going to White Island.

White Island is a small sand bar near the coast of Mambajao. The island is a letter "C" shape from above and sometimes "I" depending on the tide condition. There are no trees or any other shades on the island. We are very excited to say Good Morning to the Island but we were a bit late since there were already some tourist waiting for the sunrise. We stayed there for an hour or two, relax on the sand, swim on the clear water and took some pictures. We headed back to our cottage when we feel the heat of the sun.

Next stop is Katibawasan Falls, it is one of the nature gifts in Camiguin. The falls is ideal for swimming especially during summer because of the ice cold water that tumble downs into the green pool. The area is surrounded by huge trees, plants and flower. We don't try to swim because of cold water, we just enjoy the scenic view that Katibawasan falls has to offer.

Before leaving the Camiguin Island, we dropped by to see the Giant Clam Sanctuary. The sanctuary breeds giant clams and other clams to avoid its extinctions. Also you are going to see different shells. Upon arriving at the sanctuary we are ask to log at the guest book. They also offer swimming and snorkeling but since we arrived at noon time we just enjoy watching the movements of the clams :)   

Trip to Camiguin is a two thumbs up ^_^

Date: April 30, 2011

..Camiguin: A Relaxing Nature Trip..

A day of adventure in Dahilayan and CDO river is over, now its time to pamper ourselves to Camguin. We woke 2am in the morning to catch up the first ferry to Camiguin, we rode a Motorela going to van terminal that will bring us to Balingoan Wharf and transfer to ferrty going to Camiguin. Camuguin is known as the "Island Born of Fire".

..Motorela..

..having fun at the ferry..

Upon reaching Camiguin Island I notice a billboard saying "Smoke Free Island", all I can say is wow. We hired a mini jeep that will serve as our service to our island tour. Thank God we have rhea on our trip coz she's the one who communicate with the people there ^_^. First we went to Rhea's house to leave our things. Right after we went to our first stop, Sto. Nino Cold Spring. Its a crytal clear and fresh water coming from the mountain going down the pool. And when I say Cold Spring, its really cold and you will at the entrance some coconuts are soak in the water. Entrance fee is Php 40.00.

..Sto. Nino Cold Spring..

Before lunch time we headed back to Rhea's house, her aunt cooked adobong pusit and prepare fresh coconut from their coconut farm. What shocked us is when Rhea said we'll be eating our lunch at the backyard, OMG they have their own beach ^_^.

..Rhea's Backyard Beach ^_^

Our next stop is Soda Water Swimming Pool, some of my friends take a swim but not me cause its cold again :) It is named such because according to folks, it used to taste like soda. All you need to do is to add sweeteners such as caramel and sugar to taste like Coke. We go there to swim not to taste the water :)

..Soda Water Swimming Pool..

Next is the Old Church Ruins, this is the oldest and unique structure in the island built in 16th century from coral stones.This was turned to ruin in 1871 by Mt. Vulcan Eruption(which they called patay na bulkan).

..Old Church Ruins..

Few minutes away the ruins is the Sunken Cemetery of Camiguin Island that marks the swept remains of the island local. Sunken Cemetery is also a result from 1871 Mt. Vulcan Eruption, that turn a tourist spot. There is a large white cross located at the ocean and you need to rent a boat 20 pesos per person that will bring you to the cross. While crossing the sea you will see below the water are some of the ruins of cemetery. According to the folks the best time to go there is around 2pm in the afternoon.

..Sunken Cemetery..

We didn't attempt to visit the walkway were Mt. Vulcan is located cause we are tired to go up the Old Vulcan. Instead we buy some souvenirs and check in to Pabua's cottage. We headed to our last spot for the day is Ardent Hot Spring. It is heated by the activity of Mt. Hibok-Hibok with lots of pool that have a different temperature. Entrance is Php 30.00, the best time to be there is during night and they are open until 10pm.

This is our first day trip at Camiguin and I can say is I really love the whole island, its quiet and peaceful environment plus best tourists spots. ^_


Date: April 29, 2011
 

..White Water Rafting at CDO..

After conquering the Asia's longest zipline, we head back to Cagayan de Oro to experience the rush of white water rafting in the beautiful Cagayan de Oro river. We got our rafting package with KAGAY. Kagay is the CDO's premiere white water rafting outfitter. They guaranteed the tourists to be safe and they have an experienced river guides that had been trained both by the prestigious International Rafting Federation (IRF) in rafting techniques and safety, and by the Philippine National Red Cross in first-aid and CPR, they assured us that our experience will be so safe and enjoyable.

Since it's our first time and a bit nervous we've decided to take the basic course however people from Kagay said we cannot take the basic or advance course in the afternoon because the actual river run may take up to approx 3 hrs for basic and 4 hrs for advance (baka daw lubugan na kami ng araw sa river..hehehe). Instead they offer us the expert course that will last for approx 2 hrs with 14 extreme rapids. Though nervous we get that package because we don't want to missed this experience. ^_^

A jeepney took us to the start of the course, travel time is roughly 1 to 1.5 hours. Upon reaching the start point our guides started to prepare our rafts, they gave us the vest and paddles. The guy we called Tisoy(a foreigner, forgot his name) is the one who do the briefing and gave instructions to us and what to do if we fall out of the rafts O.O He divided us into two groups(4 in each raft) with two guides at the back. 

Once we are set we started the our fun-filled adventure at the Cagayan de Oro River. Below are the moments we had during our first rafting experience. ^_^

..Briefing and Preparing..

..start of the course small extreme rapids..

..awesome experience with extreme rapids.. ^^,

..we disappear O.O really fun..

..we made it ^_^

 
All I can say is from the moment we cast off to the river, to our first rapid and up to the end of rafting expedition is a two thumbs up adventure experience.  ^_^ I will surely come back to CDO.


Date: April 28, 2011

..Dahilayan Adventure Park at Bukidnon..

Our first out of Luzon trip is to the City of Golden Friendship, Cagayan de Oro to experience white water rafting(see my next post), but before doing that we need some warm up :) Since we are here for some adventure we started our trip to Bukidnon to try the Asia's Longest Dual Zipline at Dahilayan Adventure Park.  

Are you craving for Zipline? Then don't miss the fun and adventure at Dahilayan. It offers a greatest adventure experience for your life. Fly like Superman from a launch point at 4,500 feet above sea level. With speeds of up to 90 kph, zoom through lush greenery and breathtaking views only found in the mountains of Dahilayan.

Going to Bukidnon is 2 hours travel from CDO. We hire a van that will pick up us at the airport and bring us to Dahilayan. You know you are near the park if you see a big pineapple from Del Monte Philippines also you will pass by large pineapple plantation.

Upon arriving at the park, we don't waste our time and headed to counter to start our zipline adventure. We are all excited to conquer the Asia's Longest Dual Zipline ^_^

We started with the warm up ziplines to equip ourselves before the doing the longest one. They called it as the 320m + 150m Dual Zipline.

After the warm up we are transported via 4WD to a launch tower at 4500 feet above sea level of Mt.Kitanglad. From there we are ask to wear the ziprider's gear and wait for our turn. Asia's Longest Dual Zipline is two 840m zipride through the green mountain of Dahilayan.

Rates:

Date: April 28, 2011

..Close Encounter at Zoobic Safari..

Zoobic Safari is a 25 hectare amusement park presenting a once in a lifetime experience of the exotic animals of Asia. It is located at Group 1 Ilanin Forest, Forest Adventure Park, Subic Bay Freeport Zone.Zoobic gives you a chance to meet the animals closely and a close encounter with the biggest member of the cat family.

Main Attractions:

Animal Show
Enjoy a show put-on by park rangers as they show you some exotic animals and engage the audience in holding and feeding the tigers, snakes, large iguana lizards and other animals. This show is evolving and will feature new animals as these are brought out of training. On the day of our visit its a dog show :)

Zoobic Park
A special petting zoo and animal observation area set in a tropical jungle environment. Meander through and interact with, pet and enjoy displays of a diverse array of animals from many regions of the world. Many of these animals have become acclimated and friendly to human beings and are free and roaming amidst the visitors. You are free to reach-out and pet many of these animals. Here you will find deer, ostriches, albino caribou, a bear, monkeys, an eagle, miniature houses, ducks bearcats, guinea pigs, ferrets, and much more.

Tiger Safari
See the amazingly-long and sharp tiger-canine teeth so close to you that you actually feel the fear and excitement of these ferocious hunters. Thrill as a 400 pound tiger easily jumps on top of your safari vehicle while he eats a whole chicken. A once in a lifetime adventure experience riding in a safari jeep were you will enter in a c close fence structure and be fascinated to see the live tigers roaming around as they thrilled you with their vibrating growl.

Aetas Trail
You can see a realistic Aeta village featuring their homes and cooking areas. These native Filipino people will also treat you to a very entertaining tribal show including the butterfly and war dance. Marvel at the amazing athletic gymnastic ability of these dancers as they perform the monkey dance and catapult up a tree.

Croco Loco
Here you will find a pit of over 200 crocodiles. Walk over the steel grated walkway with the snapping monster directly below you. Here you can purchase a quarter chicken, dangle it on a fishing pole for the Crocs to snap away from your line. Then walk down to the Crocodile Café where you can view the quick-snappers from a water-level glass observation area while you snack on some goodies.

Day Tour Entrance Rate
Php 495    -     Adult
Php 395    -     Kids 4 ft. and below
Free         -     Kids 3 ft. and below

How to get there  from Manila:

1. Take Victory Liner bus from Cubao going to Olongapo.

2. Get off at the Subic bus stop(SMBA) the conductors refer it as SM. Landmarks are ministop, jollibee and whimpy restaurant.

3. Walk to the taxi ternimal. The taxis are white SUV with SMBA logos.

4. Fare to Ocean Adventure is 400 per one way. 

Dont forget to get the number of the driver and tell him to pick you up once done. ^^,

Date: April 2, 2011

..Ocean Adventure Trip..

Trip to Subic? Then don't forget to drop at Ocean Adventure. Ocean Adventure is located at Camayan Whraft, West Ilanin Forest Area, Subic Bay Freeport Zone.It is the Southeast Asia's only open-water marine theme park.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS:

Ocean Discovery Aquarium
It is a small air-conditioned room compared to Manila Ocean Park's Oceanarium. You can explore the different kinds of marine life habitats. If you are too early for the shows you can take a look at this area in Ocean Adventure

Sea Lion Marine Patrol Show
It is a small theater for Sea Lion's exhibition and acrobats. You will surely have fun, enjoy and be amazed while watching them.

Dolphin Friends Show
Enjoy being thrilled by the grace, agility, power and intelligence of the dolphins. The show is packed with actions, smiles, interesting information and conservation message

Walk on the Wild Side Show
It is composed of wild animals show and emphasized that even wild animals can be trained.

Park Hours:
9am to 6 pm everyday

Admission Prices : 

Adult - Php 550

Children 12 years old and below - Php 440

Senior Citizen - Php 440

How to go to Ocean Adventure from Manila:

1. Take Victory Liner bus from Cubao going to Olongapo.

2. Get off at the Subic bus stop(SMBA) the conductors refer it as SM. Landmarks are ministop, jollibee and whimpy restaurant.

3. Walk to the taxi ternimal. The taxis are white SUV with SMBA logos.

4. Fare to Ocean Adventure is 400 per one way. 

Dont forget to get the number of the driver and tell him to pick you up once done. ^^,

Date: April 2, 2011