Camiguin : Adventure of a Lifetime

In life, there are times that things doesn't go as planned. Our getaway to Camiguin came in as an example of it. 

We were supposed to take the CDO - Camiguin route via the Paras SeaCat but we were informed  that the trip was cancelled due to engine failure. So we found ourselves taking the 2 hour landtrip to Balingoan port in Misamis Oriental. We had no recourse but to take this route. It's the second best option we had.

We arrived in Balingoan at around 11:00 AM just in time for the 11:30 AM trip to the port of Benoni in Camiguin.

The boat ride took about an hour before we reached our destination. Finally, we are in the island born out of fire - Camiguin.

We were then greeted by Kuya Dan - our guide/ driver. We booked an overnight stay at Paguia's Cottages located just infront of Paras beach resort. They also offer tours so we booked an Island tour and a countryside tour. It was midday when we arrived so Kuya asked where do we like to eat. We wanted to have a nice seafood place so he brought us to J&A Fishpen.

After lunch, our Camiguin tour started. First stop was Katibawasan Falls. One of the many waterfalls located in the island. It is about 250 feet high and it cascades 70 meters into a rock pool surrounded by trees and wild ferns. The place is also very ideal for swimming.

Next stop was the Ardent Hibok Hibok Hot spring. The water here can go as hot as 40 degrees celsius. It is considered as one of the favorite destinations in the island. The natural heated spring used to be a four tiered pool with varying depth and warmth. The water contains sulfur and is said to cure many skin infections. And because of its heat, it is advisable not to stay more than 15 minutes on the pool.

The Walkway to the Old Volcano and the stations of the cross is very popular among pilgrims especially during the holy week. Devotees may climb a series of steps and along the way are depictions of the stations of the cross painted in white.

Passing by the Guiob Church ruins which was destroyed by the volcanic eruption of Mt. Vulcan in May 13,1871.

Another cool destination was the Sto Nino Cold Springs in Catarman. Siquijor has been blessed with many springs both hot and cold. These are due to the volcanic activity in the island. We really did enjoy the refreshing cold water. A perfect destination to beat the afternoon heat.

It was getting late and we decided to leave so we can catch the sunset at one of the most popular spots in Camiguin - the Sunken Cemetery. One of the most interesting spots in the island. The history of the Sunken Cemetery is as fascinating as the site itself.

 Way back in 1971, the whole capital of Camiguin, with its cemetery, was submerged under the sea during the devastating eruption of Mt. Vulcan. It is said that during the years that followed, the gravestones were still visible when the tide was low. When Mt. Vulcan erupted again in 1978 however, the area sunk even deeper to an estimated 20ft.

The giant cross was erected on the waters of the site by the Provincial Government of Camiguin in 1982 to mark the sunken graves of the province’s ancestors. From that point onwards, it was called the Sunken Cemetery.

A tiring day deserves a delicious dinner at Luna Restorante Italiano.The only specialty restaurant in the island. We filled up our empty stomachs and finally went to Paguia's Place where we booked an overnight stay.

The next day we woke up at 6AM for an early morning trip to Camiguin's Sanctuary. The White Island is small sand bar found near the coast of Mambajao. Lucky for us, it is only a 10 minute boat  ride  from where we are staying. This is the best time to visit the island since  it gets completely submerged during the afternoon.

Truly a sight to behold.

Check this video we took at the island.

After the visit to the White Island, we went back to the hotel and packed up to leave CAMIGUIN. On the way to the port we dropped by the factory of Vjandep Pastel Buns where we bought boxes of this yummy filled delicacy. It was my first time to try the "pastel" and with that first bite I suddenly felt the love for it.

Good thing I bought 10 boxes but I guess only 7 boxes reached Bacolod for I cant stop myself from eating this yummy custard filled buns. A half dozen box cost 60 pesos, way cheaper than buying it in supermarkets which is sold at 98 pesos or maybe higher.

Picture courtesy of visitpinas.com and barkmywords.blogspot.com

And the excitement starts here....

Upon arriving at the port, we immediately bought tickets for the 12:00NN trip back to Balingoan Port via Supershuttle Ferry. We waited at the holding area where passengers of the different shipping companies are waiting to board. After a few minutes, I heard a man saying "Andyan na ang Barko". I then called Godo and Venus to go rush to the boat so we can choose the best seat and rest.

Unlike in our trip going to Camiguin, their was a checker near the boat entrance  to assist passengers. This time there is no one to ask. With the fear of getting left behind, we unhesitantly found ourselves getting in the boat. We sat down and in a few minutes the boat left the port.

We were all tired so I rested my head and didn't notice that I almost fell asleep. I was in the middle of my sleep when I heared a man in an annoying voice saying. " Sir, ticket nyo po"... I opened my eyes and saw the man was infront of me. " Sir asan ticket nyo?". I took my bag, got the ticket and gave it to him in a arrogant way. " Eto!".

And as I was about to start dozing off again, the man said  "Sir,iba man tong ticket nyo?".

 I was startled by what the he had  just told me. I asked " Anong ibig mong sabihin kuya?"

"Sir, ang ticket nyo ay pink ang sa amin po ay puti" the man said in reply.

I thought he was just joking around and I was about to answer " Kuya baka naubusan lng ng puti na papel at sa pink na print ang ticket =)" But looking at his serious face I began to think twice.


"Ang ticket nyo po ay Super Shuttle, hindi po ito yon. Royal Princess po eto. Mali yung sinakyan nyong barko!"  I was alarmed. I didn't know what to do. Godo and Venus still didn't know whats happening for they were seated away from me.

I was thinking "If mali ang nasakyan naming barko, saan kaya papunta to? " I looked at the man and he was wearing this " I LOVE BOHOL" shirt. Does it mean we are going to Bohol?

To end my confusion I just asked him " Ahh ganun po Kuya. Saan po ba papunta ang barkong to?


" Sa Baligoan din po Sir. Dun din ang punta nito. Pero kailangan nyo po magbayad dito kasi iba ang ticket nyo. Ipa refund nyo nlng tong ticket nyo pagdating sa pier. " he replied.

Thank God. This was the time that I truly  believed in guardian angels. So I paid 500 each for us 3. I went to Venus and told him of our misadventure. We thought of making fun out it as we relay the news to Godo. We made him believe that we got the wrong boat ( which is true) and it is off to Bohol not Baligoan Port in Misamis Oriental.

 Instead of being fed up , he was happy to know the news for it would be his chance to visit Bohol the first time. He was so excited that he even posted on his wall in Facebook.

"Took the wrong boat. Now going to Bohol. Yehey!!!!"

We didn't tell him the truth until we reached Balingoan. Sorry Do! =)

It was only when we are about to reach Balingoan Port when he realized that the place seems familiar to his eyes. He asked " Dali lang gd, daw pareho lang ni sang gin halinan ta kagapon aw. Gina into nyo gd ko ay ? (Wait, isn't it that this is where we left yesterday? Are you guys mocking me? )"


And this is where our misadventure in Camiguin ended.

For your Camiguin Tours and Accomodations:
Contact Kuya Ruby Paguia at  09106329728Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/paguias.cottages

Cagayan De Oro : I'll Be Back Soon

Straight from Davao City, I took the 45 minute flight via Air Phil Express to City of Golden Friendship - Cagayan De Oro.  CDO as some may call it, is the capital city of the province of Misamis Oriental. It lies along the northern coastline in the province of Mindanao. My friend who now works in CDO arranged the airport pick up for me. Thanks to Clementine Ibanez for the ride. 

My friends Godo and Venus will  also be arriving later in the afternoon. They will be coming from Bacolod to Cebu then a connecting flight to CDO. I have instructed them that we will meet at the hotel for I will be arriving ahead of them.

Anyway, upon arriving at the Lumbia Airport, I was greeted by smiling faces and cheerful people. I saw my name in a board that is held by a young man. I approached him and introduced myself. He got my stuff and asked me where will I be staying. 

D' Budgetel is one of the newest budget hotels in CDO. It is located near Gaisano and is very accesible by public transport. I have booked a private room good for 3 pax and it cost only Php 1,090. Not bad for a fully airconditioned room with hot and cold shower plus Cable TV and Wifi access. It also includes breakfast which I must say is really a good deal.

So while waiting for the them, I rested and freshened up. I even took a nap. Hours later they texted me that they just have just landed and are on now the way to the hotel.  I was excited to meet them so I waited for the two at the hotel lobby. After a few minutes they arrived by a cab. I assisted them going to the room. They just dropped their bags and said " Okay, Lets Go! Lets explore CDO!"

We took the jeepney and head straight Limketkai Mall. We strolled by the different shops and decided to take some snacks at a lovely pastry shop by the name of MISSY BONBON. I love everything about this shop. Its interiors, the cozy ambiance and the food. Im a self confessed sucker for sweets especially the gelato ice cream. I tell you that their ice cream is the best! If you have a chance to visit CDO, never miss the chance to drop by Missy Bon Bon.

Dinner time at Cafe Macumba 

After the sumptuous dinner, we went back to the hotel for we have rest for the next day's trip to the captivating island of CAMIGUIN - our main destination. We only did pass by CDO for it is the gateway to the province.

So the next day we woke up early and had breakfast - free breakfast I mean. We took the cab and instructed the taxi driver to bring us to the port going to Camiguin. 

Upon arriving, I immediately asked the port staff which way to the the Paras Sea Cat Ferry terminal going to Camiguin. He told us that the trip was cancelled due to engine failure. We were shocked to hear that but I wasnt woried at all. Months before the trip I already did an intensive research of the various options how to reach Camiguin from CDO. Via CDO was Plan A since it much convenient and fast.

Plan B was another story. We asked the cab driver to bring us instead to the Agora Terminal. From there we took a 2 hour van ride going to Balingoan Port in Misamis Oriental.  We arrived at the port  at 11:00 AM, just in time for the 11:30 trip to Benoni Port in Camiguin.

Check my Camiguin Getaway entry.

From Camiguin, we arrived in CDO late in the afternoon. We were supposed to do white water rafting but we were so tired that we wanted to rest. Later that evening, we had a yummy dinner at Cafe Laguna and I had a meet up with my friend Clementine at Missy Bon Bon.

As much as we would like to have more time in CDO, we were only limited to passing by in transit.

I have so much plans If we were given extra time. 

With that I say - CDO, I'll definitely gonna be back!

Next Day : Camiguin

Davao : Life is here

A long overdue blog about my visit to the biggest city in the Philippines. Davao.

My trip to Davao was also my first time in Mindanao. I have heard so much about this city and how beautiful the place is. Since there is no direct flight from Bacolod to Davao. I had to fly to Cebu first and book a connecting flight to Davao City.( which is much nearer compared flying to Manila).

Davao City is the largest city in the island of Mindanao. It boast its year round tropical weather and its rich flora and fauna. It is also home to the highest peak in the entire Philippines that is Mt. Apo.

From the Davao International Airport, the city proper is only about a 15-minute drive. You may consider taking a cab if you're in a hurry. It is very safe to take public transport in Davao since the people are very much disciplined and doesn't take advantage of tourist like us.

We arrived late in the afternoon and checked in at Oroderm Beauty Hotel located along Magallanes Street. We managed to get a room good for 3 pax at only 1,500. The room was pretty decent. It has the basics. The only thing I can remember of is that the bathroom has no " shower curtain" - ( Maam Yen has been telling me all along about this, that's why it is unforgettable to me).

We asked for the nearest mall and they said the Gaisano was just one ride from the hotel. So we took the jeepney and headed for the said mall. We had dinner at Pancake House and went back to the hotel to rest.

Palawan : The Underground River + Microtel Puerto Princesa

A trip to Puerto Princesa wouldn't be complete if you failed to visit  the " Underground River". The declaration of it as one of the New 7 Wonders of the world has resulted to the sharp influx of tourist in Palawan.


And to conserve it in its natural state, a carrying capacity of Nine Hundred (900) Visitors a day is currently in effect and a NO PERMIT, NO ENTRY POLICY is strictly enforced. 


Management highly advises that a Visitor Entry Permit (VEP) be secured in advance before proceeding to the Park. Lucky for us, we were visit  such place hassle free.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is located about 50 km north of the city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. It features a limestone karst mountain landscape with an 8.2 km. navigable underground river. A distinguishing feature of the river is that it winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea. 

It includes major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and several large chambers. The underground river is reputed to be the world's longest. At the mouth of the cave, a clear lagoon is framed by ancient trees growing right to the water's edge. Some monkeys find their niche on the beach near the cave.

After the underground river tour, we went back to Sabang to have lunch. Most restaurants offer an "Eat All You Can" lunch buffet for visitors. For only 200 pesos a wide selection of menus awaits your hungry tummy. 


Sabang also houses a number of high class resorts, mostly beachfront. Some tourist, especially those who wanted the beach life travel all the way here for it's white sand beach and crystal waters. 

Here are some of the them:

But nothing compares to our official residence while we are in Puerto Princesa. It is the only beach front accommodation in the city. It lies along the white sands of the emerald beach in La Playa, just 15 minutes away from the city. I've always been a fan of this hotel chain since the first time I stayed in their Baguio branch and that is  - Microtel Inn and Suites.

Being 15 minutes away from the city. The hotel offers free scheduled car service to and from the city. This way you can enjoy the sights and have the option to dine out. Puerto Princesa has different restaurants that you will surely like.

Here are some of the restos and spots we visited during our entire trip:

Kalui Restaurant - be sure to make  prior reservations. It was fully booked when we came. They are open daily except Sundays.

Bilao at Palayok - where we ended up after knowing that Kalui's fully booked. It was such an appetizing night here. Dinner courtesy of Venus as her late birthday celebration. Boodle lets go!!!

Tiki Restobar / Sari's Baryo / The Lotus Garden -  Try to visit Tiki Bar if you want to experiece the nightlife in Palawan. Great crowd and great music awaits everyone. If you want to have fine dining, go to the Lotus Restaurant or if you maybe wanted Filipino Cuisine, Sari's Baryo is just a few steps away.

Itoy's Coffee Haus - for your sweet tooth. They have great tasting cakes.

 Puerto Princesa Baywalk - This is Puerto Princesa's counterpart of the Baywalk in Manila. The perfect time to visit is at nightime so you can see the colorful streetlights and other iconic spots like the colorful fishes and the city's symbol that is the peacock.

They also offer bicycle rentals so you can stroll the place while riding the bike.