Road Trip to Captivating Claveria

On another road trip with C, this time we are headed to Claveria. To be honest, I am simply the guest of a guest of the host, a total passenger. But this experience is definitely unforgettable, the view of the Balatukan Mountain Range alone is gorgeous.

Stops:

• Bibingka, Kumalarang

• GoHotels.ph

• Private Guesthouse, Claveria

• Unnamed Waterfalls, Claveria

• Don Narciso, Claveria

#roadtrip #philippines #claveria #balatukanmountainrange #mindanao

Travel Review 2019

2019.

It was a weird year for me, overall.

Weird because there were many surprising things that happened but were nonetheless pleasant; some twists and turns in 2019 served me right for my career growth.

But sticking to the niche of this blog, I’m surprised that 2019 has actually been a jam-packed year of traveling for me. It’s just that some of my travel stories didn’t make it to the blog because:

1. We’re valuing privacy and security and have opted to be shush about our whereabouts and,

2. If you’ve noticed, we’re choosing more tame itineraries that don’t involve whaleshark diving and cliff racing anymore because we’ve somehow become titos and titas of Zamboanga already. Our travel themes have somehow shifted from extreme to leisure. You can hear us talking about unplugging and detoxing already.

So here are the quick stats for 2019.

8- I left home eight times in 2019 for those personal travels. Including the official travel counts will undoubtedly increase and I can’t be bothered to count that too.

5- Of these are road trips. I’m surprised that people can withstand road trips that include crossing oceans just to get to island resorts.

In January, I spent New Year’s Day in Lakawon Island staring at the sunset wondering what’s to become of me and a huge task assigned to me in the workplace. Luckily, it all pulled off thanks to responsible people I can count on.

In April, C wanted to go to Samal Island so we made our way to Davao and Bukidnon and visited relatives in Balingasag and Jasaan. 

June was another out-of-town road trip to Cebu and Bohol with a special mission that involved taking my grandmother to Cebu in order for her to get home to Leyte. C drove us safely across with a crazy route, from Zamboanga to Dapitan to Cebu and we went as far as Bohol and vice-versa. Again full of stories but I didn't curate anything for the blog. (I'm still thinking about it though.)

In October I accompanied C to Manila and we (covertly) spent a few days immersing ourselves in the mountain city named Baguio. Our goal: detox. My goal: hoard succulents.

August is the highlight of my travel year though. It took us six flights, three cities, two countries and sooo many temples that I can’t again be bothered to count all of them in both Bangkok and Siem Reap. 

To end the year, my family went to Molave as an excuse to end the year and see the cold springs for ourselves-and we weren't disappointed. 

2020 has got to be another year of promise.

2020 plans for travel have yet to be cemented until after May, I’ve already planned out my vacations for the next six months, and for impromptu invitations, I always have to check with C and my family though- for reason number 1 and 2. And it’s always good to have company when traveling just in case something happens.

In summary, 2019 was about learning to slow down and unplug. I’m pretty grateful with the experiences this year, but I do know that there will be more to come in 2020. It’s a new decade after all and I trust the next chapter because I am the author.

Thank you for sticking with my travel stories. It’s going to be an exciting year ahead! 

If you liked this post, please like my

                       

Facebook Page

Instagram

Bloglovin

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.

If you liked this post, please like my

                       

Facebook Page

Instagram

Bloglovin

You can check out my YouTube video here

The Anatomy Of A Road Trip

The evening of our office audit, I left Zamboanga as the vehicle sped towards Dapitan. With my cousin B taking up the driver’s wheel, C by my side and friends, I experienced a twenty-hour trip from one island to the next, and making it through a mountain range finally arriving in Bacolod.

In general I was just really grateful to experience Bacolod and see what it’s like to ply the route that my cousin frequently takes and got to note the stories of the sugarcane plantations that can be seen at the side of the road. It has a sinister tone to it but I’d like to write a short story about it someday.

 As for what makes a memorable road trip in my opinion, here’s the breakdown of one for the books. 

We took B's Nissan Terra for a drive

A comfortable and spacious vehicle

It was a perfect time to go for a test drive. My cousin B went on this route many times and with different vehicles, but I think it’s the first time for the Nissan Terra. It was absolutely a breeze to be cruising along the beauty of the island of Negros and with a spacious and smooth drive like the Terra, there was a lot of space for our bags and for six people all in all. The back had foldable seats for reclining to make space for our luggage, because C and I both agreed ahead of time to bring luggage, and I always bring an extra backpack, then our friends also brought their respective duffel bags.

To illustrate, our route was to leave from Zamboanga by 8:00 in the evening then arrive by 3:00 AM in Dapitan to catch the boat that will cross all the way to Dumaguete, arriving at around 8:00 AM for breakfast and then resume, passing by Mabinay, Bago City and then arrive in Bacolod by 5:00 PM. Do take note that there are security checks before boarding the barge and that passengers are required to submit their baggage through x-rays and also wait at the terminal before boarding.

With a continuous playlist of acoustic tracks, we made it, with occasional stops for food, especially for breakfast and lunch of course. 

Enjoying the scenery on the way: Church at the Municipality of Hinigaran

A capable driver and a spare driver

We were quite confident with our company in case B couldn’t continue driving because the trip alone was about 20 hours long. But at least we had two more spare drivers who were experienced on highway drives and long-haul trips. C knows the route to Dapitan by heart and R also knew Negros because of countless times visiting. Thankfully nothing happened that required us to switch drivers during our journey on the road.

Another plus with this arrangement is that our designated, capable driver also had a few stories to share about the sugarcane plantations (read: blood sacrifice for a bountiful harvest) but that’s just some eerie bedtime story, (or so at least I think).

Snacks and water

Nobody gets hungry in Negros especially if there are a lot of street side vendors selling fruits and all sorts of snacks on the way. Of course, I brought water and snacks on hand to endure the trip. Dried fruit and mixed trail with nuts sometimes does the job.

Necessary pitstops

Here’s where breakfast, lunch and dinner come in, as well as bathroom breaks. Luckily we had no issues with any of these. Dumaguete alone has a handful of places offering affordable meals and to freshen up before resuming the trip.

On the way to Bacolod as we were nearing, we had a taste of the famous KBL, a spicy stew that’s best paired with white rice. It’s also known as Kansi, Baboy at Langka, and is a good comfort food during rainy days. 

A destination that makes it all worthwhile

There’s supposed to be a storm coming in, but we made it all in perfect timing. I received a call from my father shortly after we arrived in Bacolod where we were staying in P’s home, asking where we were because my parents were worried about the storm coming in, which would mean that we were going to be stranded if we didn’t get to cross Dapitan to Dumaguete.

However, we made it in good time and it was a good experience for us to be able to make that trip and to end 2018 in  P’s hometown. The plan was to immerse ourselves in Bacolod as we took a break from work and greeted 2019 energized and full of hope.

The next day would be another day in Sugarlandia with plans to visit its attractions. It was one of the long but rewarding road trips that will be catalogued in my memory and taught me that the best that a road trip can be is spontaneous and made with good company.

Disclaimer: This post is in no way sponsored by Nissan Philippines, Inc. or its affiliates. All inputs are based on my experiences during the travel described. 

Cagayan-Bukidnon Travel Mood Board

Cagayan de Oro will always be close to my heart.

It’s my grandparents’ hometown, it’s where most of my relatives are from my mother’s side, I’ve had memorable summers there as a child, not to mention, I got a taste of grown-up life there. Plus, the nightlife has something to offer the locality.

What I love about Cagayan de Oro is the good food that goes with the pride of the City of Golden Friendship. For me, it’s cowboy country because it’s where I first got to experience gastronomic delights in the urban landscape, and also well-loved, savoury flavors like steak in Del Monte Clubhouse in Bukidnon. As for the city proper, I’ve drooled about Baby Back Ribs and whatever side dishes that goes with it. I admit, Baby Back Ribs is a rarity back here in Zamboanga, more so if it has to be done right.

I have yet to encounter a good place that serves delectable baby back ribs in Zamboanga City, but I already know where to go when I’m in Cagayan de Oro.

Now that I’ve gotten ahead of myself already, here’s my mood board for an upcoming travel with C. I’ll be pleased to show him around, and also make more memories for the Holy Week this year. 

1. Divine Mercy Shrine, El Salvador 

It only makes sense to visit the Divine Mercy Shrine in El Salvador before actually entering the city itself. EL Salvador is a coastal town in Misamis Oriental. Devotees travel to offer devotion in this quiet place. What makes the shrine stand out is the 50-foot image of Jesus Christ overlooking the area. I’ve been here even before the site was completed, as our relative was the former mayor of the town. She shared with us the many stories and miracles that devotees witnessed through the Divine Mercy. I’d also like C to see the place for himself. 

2. White Water Rafting, Macahambus Adventure Park

Ahhhh, white water rafting. I’ve done it before in Macahambus. I did promise C to take him there. But I’m just going to take him there and wait for him at the pickup point lol. I did say it’s an experience that should not be missed, but I’m the kind of person who’s not going to do it again lol. Once is enough I guess, lol. Also in Macahambus is the gorge where a jungle walk is possible, as well as zip line. And for the braver visitors, spelunking in the cave.

3. Steak in Del Monte Clubhouse, Bukidnon

Driving along long stretches of pineapple plantation can make one hungry, especially if it feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere. This is where a perfect lunch of medium rare steak comes in. Most visitors visit the clubhouse not to tee off at the golf course, but to enjoy steak at this iconic landmark. 

4. Dahilayan Adventure Park

Dahilayan is a great place to unwind, and there are a lot of things to do for families and friends. An overnight stay at Pinegrove is a beautiful experience, waking up in the morning to a sprawl of pine trees. There’s also the zip line, ATV and python walk to try out. Of course, if exercise is what one needs, there’s more to do all around the place as well as chilling in the café too. 

5. Seven Seas Waterpark, Opol, 

Seven Seas is sort of a new feature for travelers headed to Cagayan de Oro. It’s in C’s itinerary and of course, I’m curious as to what’s to see there as well. Perhaps it’s a fulfilment of a childhood dream. Time to pack those rash guards and tons of SPF! 

I can’t wait to unwind and experience new adventures with C next month! 

Sundays Are Blessings + Time Off

I guess I have a knack for dragging my friends with me to go on road trips during the weekend. I just think that Sundays are blessings and great for time off. I spent Saturday morning coaching Sophomores and Juniors in debate and we had mocks. It was a productive morning but kind of exhausting. So when Sunday rolled in, I went on a two-hour ride to meet a really special person close to me for a really special time together just catching up.

 

I travelled quite the distance just to be there for this special lady and I am so glad that for once in my life, I went out of my comfort zone to get to Vitali. It was all so worth it.  I miss spending time with her and the trip was one of a kind.

 

And this is what I wore for our trip. I had a gut feeling that the scarf would be helpful to cover myself from dust and heat and I was right. Also, it helped me keep warm because on our way home we rode an open jeep and it was raining like crazy!

 

V Neck Tees in Gray by Giordano

Teal Bead and Purple Wooden Pendant Necklace by Christine's Books and Baubles

Teal Pashmina Scarf from Davao

Polka Dot Tote Blogger's Own

Blue Jeans by Penshoppe

 

Femme Pink Leather Watch by Avon

Pink BFF Beads Bracelet by Runway Shop

Silver Hair Tie Blogger's Own

When I arrived home I immediately had a warm shower and ended the day with a couple of butter cookies and chocolate milk.

 

How about you? What did you do during the weekend?

 

The ZaNorte Road Trip

Here are some shots taken from the Zamboanga del Norte Road Trip last month. We went up north for a few days and toured the area. The locals have shortened Zamboanga del Norte to ZaNorte for its monicker to help promote the area for tourism. 

On the way, our van broke down in the Panubigan area so we were sitting it out until things got back to normal and resume the drive. 

We had a seaside lunch, here we are all standing up by the beach, longing for a quick nap just after the meal. 

This is the tempting view of the beach in Zamboanga del Norte, before reaching the municipality of Leon Postigo. 

This is the view from Leon Postigo's Municipal Hall. It is overlooking the park with the sea as its background. 

And we hit the road again, sticking to the highway meandering against the sea. Our next location is Poblacion, a coastal village where some Subanens live. 

The Subanens performed a dance for us to express their gratitude. 

The colorful costumes and gestures are so native and cultural. 

Some Subanens came to join the community to greet us in our visit. 

One way to get around is by tricycle, a local mode of transportation. School children take a ride in numbers. 

This guy is a regular at the Alvenda Mountain Resort in the Municipality of Mutia. 

He was curious with new faces in his property. 

Alvenda is a mountain resort which offers facilities like a swimming pool, a cottage for overnight, zipline and trekking in a quiet place with fresh mountain air.