Destination Diary: Subic

 The whole trip was planned out three months in advance for one purpose and one purpose only, and that’s to pull off a birthday surprise for a really unsuspecting celebrant. Lucky for us, the celebrant had no idea what’s in store despite some slip-ups, from innocent comments coming from family members, to last minute mentions of various destinations in an attempt to mislead said celebrant. It was a huge ploy that entailed the participation of all of the members in our family, but in the end, it really was a success to making the celebrant’s birthday such a pleasant surprise. 

We stayed in a budget hotel in Olongapo with very quick access to parts of Subic and within arm’s reach of establishments and shopping malls. Staying in town is a good choice for travelers as the center is very walkable, for quick meals and convenience stores too. But for some attractions, you will need to call a cab especially for the ones inside Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). So without further delays, here are some things to do in Subic: 

 Watch the Shows at Ocean Adventure 

Having been to Subic before, I was in charge of arranging the itinerary for our group. It was easy to call for a cab from our hotel, as the reception knew a lot of cabs willing to drive us for a group of nine people, and we didn’t take anything less than a nine-seater vehicle. 

The moment we arrived at Ocean Adventure (on a Sunday morning), we were in for a shock because there were at least ten tourist buses carrying school kids on a field trip! Luckily, a lady from the ticketing booth recommended a different schedule for our shows so that we were able to avoid the school kids during the shows. 

In Ocean Adventure, there are a total of four shows to watch. Wild World is a mix of jungle survival tips and encounters with rainforest animals such as a bearcat, fruit bat, python and scops owl. These are all rescued animals and the show educates visitors about preserving their natural habitats. 

The Sea Lion Marine Patrol show features sea lions and their mission to protect the environment and their population as they are still threatened by hunters all over the world.It’s an entertaining show for audiences of all ages, and there’s an underwater viewing window for those who want to have a closer look at the sea lions relaxing underwater. 

The Sentinels of the Sea show features bottlenose dolphins showing off their superb abilities and natural wit in keeping the ocean thriving. It’s a show in the Seaside stadium and the best seats can be occupied really fast especially if there’s a big crowd such as on weekends. 

Ocean Adventure also has a Koi Pond, Ocean Discovery Aquarium, Voyager Aquarium and a Souvenir Shop. 

Up Close and Personal at the Zoobic Safari

Pulling up at the parking lot in front of Zoobic Safari, we were surprised to find a pot-bellied pig roaming the corners of the parking lot. This we have to get used to, as the gates are wide, but the pigs are kind of low so it’s easy for them to just squeeze out of the fences to give visitors a shock.

We had lunch in the restaurant but not after having taken a group photo with the white tiger whose head is bigger than ours. It took a bottle of milk and a lot of courage to be able to come close with this gorgeous white tiger. 

Similar to Jurong Bird Park in Singapore, we took the tram to our tour stops. 

The Savannah is a quick tour showcasing ponies, wild boars, potbelly pigs, ostriches and guinea fowls. The lions in captivity can be visited and fed for a fee, as they can take raw chicken but doing so should be with caution. Even if there are cubs, they can be quite naughty when hungry. 

Croco Loco is not for those who have reptile phobia. This visit involves walking over a pit of 200 crocodiles and a chance to feed them by purchasing a quarter of raw chicken, dangling it via fishing pole and these crocs snapping at that snack. It’s enough to drive your imagination crazy. 

Finally, with a secure caged jeep, here’s the chance to come close with the tigers in their own space cooling off and becoming curious with visitors who dare go inside. With the scent of raw chicken attracting their senses, here’s the opportunity to come up close and personal with the tigers just inches away from your face! 

To end the tour, a tram will bring back visitors to the exit, coming full circle to the parking lot where refreshments are available after that tour. 

Charter a Yacht Cruise and Dive in Silanguin Cove 

Here’s the highlight of our travel, and that’s chartering a yacht for our birthday bash for one lovely birthday girl. 

The cruise started promptly at noon, as we had to carry our food to our yacht, MV Princess Regina, for the afternoon. For a party of nine people, the yacht is spacious enough as we spent all of our time aboard the top deck with salt water air, making our way via open ocean to Silanguin Cove which took approximately two hours. 

The tour comes with the captain and his first officer. Here’s where we knew what motion sickness meant, but seeing Silanguin Cove and its beauty affirmed that our trip was definitely worth it. We did all that we could to avoid feeling dizzy because we were faring through deep, open ocean but jumping into the cool water melted all our cares away. 

We spent a few hours diving here and there, and we found out that even the yacht crew couldn’t resist jumping overboard because the water was just so inviting. Not to worry, we were anchored safely. And as for someone like me who was afraid of drifting away, I tied the rope around my left leg as I was wearing a life jacket while admiring the shores of the cove. Getting any telecom signal in Silanguin Cove is next to impossible, so it was easier to focus on giving the place some undivided attention. If you’re someone obsessed with staying online, this might drive you crazy for a few hours. 

We headed back before sunset and the beautiful view of the lighthouse and surrounding islands made for an adventure one for the books. We had dinner at the Yacht Club Hotel after stepping back on dry land, but even after going back in our hotel rooms, I still couldn’t shake off the feeling of motion sickness as I stood in the bathroom ready to brush my teeth. 

Duty Free and Outlet Store Shopping 

Subic is known for many outlet stores and duty free stores. A handful of favorites are Harbor Point, Puregold, Royal Duty Free and some outlet stores such as Nike, Adidas and many more. Coming over in January still lent an air of leftover Christmas bazaars so we were able to score a few deals on footwear and some other items. 

Unwind in Binictican Suburbs 

B’s aunt is a resident of Binictican, a private neighborhood in Subic where we spent the time enjoying lunch and unwinding, talking about the possibility of monkeys coming up the backyard from the rainforest, and the usual horror stories among cousins as well as funny travel stories from our own personal experiences. 

With the rest of the natural light spilling in from the wide windows, I spent the afternoon reading books piled up high and had a good nap on one of the mattresses positioned on the floor. Here’s where I had one of the most restful naps because of the humidifier spewing relaxing essential oils throughout the whole home. 

There are other stuff we wanted to do in Subic, but with limited time we were able to at least spend some time unwinding, plus pull off a surprise for our birthday girl. 

Where to Stay: Save- New Kong’s Hotel

Rates start at Php 1,440 for Standard Rooms

Where to Stay: Splurge- Yacht Club Hotel 

Rates Start at Php 11,000 for Upper Deck Room

Reminders

·  When visiting other nations, we are responsible for our own behavior and should observe proper customs as the locals do, as we are only guests in their country.

·  Be responsible travelers by disposing of trash properly and being courteous to those you meet, especially the elderly and locals. 

Note: All input are based on my personal experiences in Subic, Zambales. Our group made arrangements prior to our travel dates. This is in no way, a sponsored post.

*Photos taken with the Samsung Galaxy A50.

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Destination Diary: Zamboanga del Sur

If you’re looking for a quick escape that’s still close to Zamboanga City for the year-end, Zamboanga del Sur is the best choice. Only about six hours away from the city, this itinerary is a two-day, one-night escape that’s very accessible and enjoyable for a family on a quick road trip.

Eriberta Spring Resort, Mahayag, Zamboanga del Sur

1. Stop By Eriberta Spring Resort in Mahayag 

Now this is an understated jewel in the region. Located in Mahayag, Eriberta is owned by a family friend. Only an hour away from Pagadian, it’s set to be a go-to destination for people who want to unplug from city life. Because there’s weak signal for most telecoms in the area, it’s a great place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Mini Falls in Eriberta Spring Resort

Accommodations are very affordable at only Php 800 for a cottage that can be occupied by 2-4 persons. Entrance fees are at only Php 50 per person. There’s a restaurant that can take orders which is very convenient for breakfast with a basic selection and instant coffee.

On February 14, the Infinity Pool and newer cottages shall start accepting guests that can accommodate up to 100 persons. However, reservations should be made two weeks in advance especially during the summer.

Mini clear pools in Eriberta Spring Resort

Most guests were Chavacano, because it’s really nearby and a good choice for a stopover on the way to Cagayan de Oro, especially during the year-end.

Mini Waterfalls in Eriberta Spring Resort, Mahayag, Zamboanga del Sur

If you’re someone who wants to unplug, go to Eriberta and experience the cold water spring to rejuvenate your tired body and soul from all the year’s activities. The trip will be worth it.

Eriberta has some fun stories for us, ranging from scary to the plain crazy. As for us, we’ve found another stopover and maybe we will be back before you know it. 

2. Dine at the Vine Cafe in Molave

After all the swimming and soaking, we decided to explore the rest of the area and get in touch with civilization (areas within cellular coverage), and came across Vine Café and Bed and Breakfast.

It has eleven fully furnished rooms and a café and bar on the ground floor, which is also an events place for the young. The establishment was also popularized by travel vlogger Kulas of Becoming Filipino. The interiors reflect a cozy bed and breakfast, and there’s a wide menu for meals and snacks too.  We ordered mostly comfort food and heavy meals, so that wound us up for our next stop. 

3. Experience the Christmas Icons Lights Display in Tangub Plaza

Maybe it was curiosity that led us to Tangub, but it was still a worthwhile stop during the evening. The city plaza has become an attraction for families who want to look at the Christmas Icons Lights Display. It is an annual display where replicas of popular monuments around the globe are arranged, decked with lights making beautiful showcases at night.

A walkable replica of the Cascada Monumenta

The replica is made of Capiz Shells

Capiz shells were used in the walk-in replica of Cascada Monumenta 

Each display charges an entrance fee, ranging from Php 10 to Php 20 depending on the size of the display. We spent a lot of time in the tulip garden display which mimicked the thousand roses display in Cebu.

Replica of a Holland flower garden with lit flowers

After walking around and admiring the displays, there are vendors selling cotton candy and peanuts and a corner offering meals and barbecue. 

All in all, it was a good time spent with my family and a road trip where memories were made. Plus, more stories to tell. I’m leaving you with a few reminders and observations too and greeting you all a Happy New Year! Here’s to more adventures in 2020! Thank you for your continued support!

Reminders:

• When taking photos inside the displays, be mindful of taking turns and respect elders. Don’t destroy the display just for the ‘gram.

• Be responsible travelers by disposing of trash properly and being courteous to those who you meet.

• Bring cash with you, not all establishments and vendors accept cards. Small denominations are convenient. 

Note: All input is based on my personal experiences in Zamboanga del Sur. This is in no way, a sponsored post.

*Photos taken with the Samsung Galaxy A50.

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Destination Diary: Bangkok, Thailand

With five other people in our traveling party, you can say that I'm the one constantly brainstorming, organizing and tying up the details for this trip-plus this is where my mandatory leave days went to. The plan was first to enjoy Bangkok. But later on, it expanded to Siem Reap. The new route consisted of Zamboanga-Manila-Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang)-Siem Reap and vice versa. Now that was a mouthful, and not for the faint-hearted. 

But we were able to maximize our time in Bangkok, and if you plan to visit this city anytime soon, allow me to give you a few ideas:

The Standing Buddha

Temple Run: Standing Buddha, Sleeping Buddha, Sitting Buddha, and Walking Buddha 

We were fortunate to be able to book a tour right from the airport for our first day in Bangkok. Of course, our tour included a driver, van, itinerary and English speaking guide, plus free bottled water in our vehicle. Not only that, we had exclusive use of our vehicle. We were a small party of six people, and even were allowed side-trips to anywhere else in the city such as gem shops and the best tailors in Bangkok.

The Sleeping Buddha (Wat Pho) 

So we started with the temple run from our hotel on our first day, with hotel pickup. We headed straight to the Temple of the Standing Buddha. Just a short distance from the gate we already got a sample of the small, crispy pancakes that were being sold inside for a quick snack. Devotees of the temple were already used to foreign visitors visiting and taking photos that they didn’t mind us there.

After that, we went to Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Sleeping Buddha. This one is popular among tourists (with an entrance fee of 40 Thai Baht), and that I’ve observed more tourists here than in the other first and third temples we visited that day. Shoes are not allowed inside so they have bins that have reusable plastic bags for visitors outside, just dump your footwear in them, go around the temple and then wear your shoes outside, leave the plastic bags in the receiving bins once you’re out.

The Sitting Budha

The Walking Buddha

We ended our temple run with the Temple of the Sitting Buddha and Walking Buddha, there are two figures under one roof. 

After our temple run, we asked our guide and driver to drop us off so that we can…

Entrance to Chatuchak Weekend Market

 Shop and Bargain Hard in Chatuchak Weekend Market 

We scheduled our visit to Bangkok on the weekend to take advantage of the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Although it is open on weekdays, it is not in full swing unlike during the weekends where all the stalls are open. During our visit, I don’t think we were able to circle the whole place. A lot can be bought in Chatuchak, from food, clothes, shoes, crafts, even cacti, gardening supplies and decors.

Figurines and houseware for sale in Chatuchak Weekend Market

I think this is one reason why my parents intentionally didn’t bring much clothes (so that they can shop) and brought a large luggage with them (so that they can shop) and exchange a lot of Thai Baht (so that they can shop). I know I’ll get a scolding after this post lol.

Note that Chatuchak is open during weekdays, but only around forty percent of the stalls are open, the market is in full swing during weekends. 

Muai Thai Shorts Stall in Chatuchak Weekend Market

Cacti For Sale in Chatuchak Weekend Market

Visit The Grand Palace Complex

You haven't been to Bangkok if you haven't explored the Grand Palace. Once past the main gates, the feeling of looking at all the buildings inside the complex is enough to be overwhelmed. It’s like a different place on earth altogether.

The Grand Palace Complex, Right: Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Inside, I felt like every angle is layered with gold, that there’s always something new to look at. There’s a beautiful temple inside the palace complex and visitors are expected to remove their footwear before stepping in. Visitors are expected to cover up and dress modestly as well. Entrance fee is at 500 Thai Baht per person.

The Grand Palace

Outside the Grand Palace gates there are shops and vendors showing off their artwork, I bought an elephant gilded painting for a bargain after the man selling it says he admired our Philippine leaders. If you’re hungry or thirsty, there are convenience stores and cafes along the avenue after the stroll in the Grand Palace grounds.

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) Along Chao Praya River

Watch Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn) Light Up From A Rooftop Bar Along Chao Praya River on Sunset 

Because most attractions are within only walking distance of Chao Praya River, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience the lighting up of Wat Arun or The Temple of Dawn at sunset at a rooftop bar. There are only a handful of rooftop bars facing Wat Arun, and it’s advisable to be able to reserve a table ahead of time in order to enjoy the sunset and the cool breeze from the river. It’s also a tourist magnet, so you will be met with so many other people fighting for those Instagrammable spots against Wat Arun as the backdrop. Sitting by the riverside with a drink in your hand may just be the right way to end the day of exploration.

Taking the Tuk-Tuk to Khaosan Road

Experience A Tuk-Tuk Ride

No visit to Bangkok is complete without a tuk-tuk ride. These transportations are a fast way to get around the city, if you’re one who is into a little excitement at night in the city streets. We only went once though because we always take the cab to and from the hotel because our hotel is far from the city center but near Don Mueang Airport for our Cambodia trip.

A few notes though, negotiate before hopping in, ask the driver to drop you in the designated location (Bangkok Library in Khaosan Road for instance) and hold on to dear life. They go fast and can insert in the narrowest of streets, but it’s absolutely a fun ride.

Scorpions on A Stick at Khaosan Road

Experience Night Life in Khaosan Road (Take A Photo With Exotic Food Such As Scorpions And Crickets While You're There) 

Khaosan Road is like the place to be in Bangkok for the nightlife. There are a lot of things to do, like eat in the many restos, shop from street vendors, and even go for a massage or enjoy karaoke with friends. It’s also the place to find exotic fried food such as scorpions, crickets, and worms. All it takes is some Thai Baht and courage to find your fancy.

Hungry? You can order here 

Experience (And Shop Some More) in Damnoen Saduak Floating Market 

Damnoen Saduak is the first and biggest floating market in Bangkok and is often considered the most famous. There are other floating markets in Bangkok, but this has more shops and is described as a maze of narrow canals, and the best place to visit is in the morning. It’s about an hour and a half ride from our hotel and in the outskirts of Bangkok, already in Ban Yai Paeng district. Thankfully we had an English-speaking guide, a van and driver to take us there.

Your lunch can be bought here

Guests will have to use a longboat called sampans, wear a lifejacket and bring some cash when it comes to shopping from the vendors in boats and wide-brimmed hats selling souvenirs and fresh produce. Hungry or thirsty? Just call out to the vendors selling coconut ice cream or pork satay and fresh juices and they will paddle over, or your boat handler will maneuver your way to that vendor. Neat huh? This has got to be one of the highlights of my family trip in Bangkok.

If you've had enough of shopping, all you have to do is just sit and chat and watch the activities in Damnoen Saduak

I have to confess that I had fun here even if I didn’t buy much for myself. I’m aware of the overpricing of some wares here, but if there’s something to buy in the floating market, it’s the hand-carved décor and paintings of artisans from all over Thailand, and woven skirts for the ladies. My kuripot-self regrets not buying these here. 

Palm Sugar for Sale in the Palm Farm

Visit A Palm Farm and See How Coconut Sugar Is Made

If you’re someone who enjoys visiting cottage industries and see how local products are made and produced, the palm farm is one place to be. Producers show how palm sugar is extracted, and there are goods for sale after the mini-tour. Of course, fresh coconut to drink is also available. What to buy here are organic body care products that are coconut-oil based. Even if it’s far from the city, there are still foreign visitors who come here with a guide and transportation because it’s just cozy to be with nature for a change.  

Coconut-based beauty and wellness products derived from palm from the farm

Visit and Feed The Elephants in the Elephant Park 

Also far from the city is the Elephant Park. It’s popular with tourists with young children, (because it’s a good opportunity, so don’t miss it). There are many other activities to do here such as watching the Monkey Show and crocodiles, but the highlights are the pachyderms. Even if we were asked to go on elephant rides, we outright refused and just opted for feeding them and taking photos and videos of these creatures.

No elephant rides please,  but you can feed them instead

To explain, elephant rides are a form of abuse, because their spines are sensitive and prolonged burdening them will lead to long-term damages. To add, we don’t really know how these beautiful creatures are being handled by the park. Of course, I’ll leave this for another more in-depth post. I’m sure my animal-loving friends will agree. 

Icon Siam, The Mother of Malls

Shop Local and Branded in Icon Siam

And lastly, just a cab ride away, is Icon Siam. It’s a shopping mall that houses so many different brands, and the ground floor is just a beautiful array of local products- the display imitates a floating market with endless choices of food and goods featuring the One Town, One Product concept. Spending three hours is not enough in Icon Siam, also called The Mother of Malls, which is why we decided to go back and make the most of our last day in Bangkok here, before we caught our flight back to Manila via Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Brands and boutiques are upstairs

Food stalls in the ground floor imitating a floating market experience

Ground floor Icon Siam featuring One Town, One Product (OTOP) exhibits

We stayed for less than a week in Bangkok, as we had to fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia but it was always a full schedule every day. Of course, this is another experience for the books because of time spent with people I love, and in our subconscious, we keep thinking about coming back someday. 

Reminders:

• When visiting other nations, we are responsible for our own behavior and should observe proper customs as the locals do, as we are only guests in their country.

•  Be responsible travelers by disposing of trash properly and being courteous to those you meet, especially the elderly and locals. 

Note: All input are based on my personal experiences in Bangkok, Thailand. Our group made arrangements prior to our travel dates. This is in no way, a sponsored post.

*Photos taken with the Samsung Galaxy A50.

Previous Post: 6 Things That Surprised Me About Bangkok  

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