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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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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.
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| A walkable replica of the Cascada Monumenta |
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| The replica is made of Capiz Shells |
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| 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.
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| 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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