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BoyP Lakwatsa

“Where oh where will my feet take me to today ?”

December 10, 2011 New Punta Fuego

Punta Fuego in Balaytigue, Nasugbu, Batangas is the Forbes Park of Philippine beaches, an unofficial title used to be attached to its older neighbor Tali Beach.It is a residential community and is open only to members of Club Punta Fuego , residents, and their guests. The neighborhood is so snooty the houses can not even be rented out to mere mortals wanting to spend a day in this exclusive resort.

the infinity pool at the Main Clubhouse

Its long name is Peninsula de Punta Fuego (point of fire). The property sits on 88 hectares, with a six kilometer coastline, and 12 secluded coves.

The weekend beach homes inside Punta Fuego are not one’s idea of a tropical getaway. They are not bamboo homes with thatched roofs around swaying coconut trees. Rather, they are huge homes, some may actually be called mansions. Imagine Wuthering Heights.

the beach near the Lower Clubhouse. Homes can be seen up the hill.

The Club has a marina, restaurants, an 18-hole golf course, and a mini-golf.

There are restaurant choices and several types of casitas and suites at Punta Fuego.

refresh, or dine at San Diego, Main Clubhouse

Stay overnight in one of the casitas, or pamper yourself in a sunset suite or a seaview loft.

there are 33 casitas at Peninsula de Punta Fuego

Casitas can be rented on weekdays for P3,400 per day (off peak rate)  among members, and P6,500 for their guests. Weekend rates are P5,900 and P8,800, respectively.

For a full appreciation of the beauty of Punta Fuego, visit their website. Rooms and suites can be viewed, as well as beauty shots of the property. Website : http://www.clubpuntafuego.com.ph/cpfi/

Punta Fuego may be reached at phone numbers (043) 7810385 and (632) 5844405.

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December 10, 2011 Tagaytay Picnic Grove

The Picnic Grove  is probably the most visited spot in Tagaytay, or maybe neck and neck with the other popular destination nearby, the Palace in the Sky which is now known as People’s Park.

This park is open to the public and tables, pavilions, picnic huts may be rented.

This pavilion rents out for P500 a day

The viewdeck is where visitors can take beautiful photos of the Taal Volcano and lake below, of the Palace in the Sky, and the zipline start point.

Viewdeck

Palace in the Sky, now called People's Park, as seen from the viewdeck

the zipline station, below the viewdeck

zipline thrill, as photographed from a poster inside Picnic Grove

if you don't feel like Superman, you can take the cable car ride instead

Or you can take a walk thru an eco-trail

walk down the eco-trail

There is a hostel with swimming pool inside the park.

Hostel

The park is huge, with ample parking, several picnic areas and family sheds.

Tagaytay Picnic Grove is managed by the city government. All fees are paid at the Payment Center inside the park, beside the Administration office.

Fees :

Entrance fee : P50.00 per head – - – 4 years old and above

Parking Fee :

Car P50.00, Van/coaster/jeep P50.00, bus P100.00

Cottage Rentals :

Table P100.00, Picnic Huts P150.00, Family Sheds P300.00, Pavilions P500.00.

The viewdeck can be rented for functions, P2,500.00

For more information, Tagaytay Picnic Grove can be contacted by telefax: (046) 4830346

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August 22, 2011 Hardin ng Postema

I was scouting for a venue for a reunion of family members since the earlier booked has become too small for the swelling number of excited attendees.  I first went to a beach resort I visited once before, checking their facilities, rooms, and rates. Villa Excellance Beach Resort in Tanza, Cavite, looked viable.  On my way out of the beach resort, I  decided to explore Hardin sa Postema, a resort I did not  then consider.  I liked what I saw.

Hardin ng Postema is beautiful and clean. The business model is simple – -  pay entrance fees per person and you can use any picnic table you want, use the bathroom and shower facilities, and any of the 5 swimming pools within the complex.  2 huge “landscaped” pools, 2 kiddie pools beside the big pools, and an Olympic-sized pool.

the deep end at 6 ft

one of many pavilions with lots of picnic

Olympics !

this area can even be booked for exclusive, catered functions

FOR THE KIDS :

There are playgrounds on two locations so that moms and nannies will not have trouble keeping kids busy and entertained.

one of two playgrounds

the second

ACCOMMODATIONS:  Guests wanting to stay overnight or longer can book themselves one of the many air-conditioned  rooms, basic and de luxe, all with clean bathrooms, TV, and ref.

one of the room clusters, at P1,600 for overnight (12 hours), good for up to 6 persons per room

spacious room with TV and ref, clean bathroom, aircon

all rooms have verandas

this regular room has a queen-sized bed and a trundle. Extra beds and mattresses can be arranged at minimal costs

in another building, a de luxe room for P2,000 (12 hours stay)

the veranda of the de luxe room

House Rules as photographed :

they also sell drinks at the store, by the way

videoke rental

FEES:

Entrance fee

Day Rate 7am-3pm

Adult – Php 100.00
Child – 50.00

Night Rate 3pm onwards

Adult – Php 150.00
Child – 80.00

CONTACT DETAILS :

(046)686-3129
suncell- 0923 2064022
0933 3880986
PLDT 046-6863129
PLDT Manila line: 5420186

FACEBOOK :

https://www.facebook.com/people/Hardin-Ng-Postema/100000310896541#!/people/Hardin-Ng-Postema/100000310896541?sk=wall

HOW TO GET THERE:

By private car: Take Coastal Road , onwards to the new tollway CAVITEX (P58 toll fee). Drive onwards to the direction of the Cavite Economoc Zone (when lost, ask for EPZA). Go past the intersection and this should bring you to Tanza. To your right will be several beach resorts. When you reach Barangay Sahud Ulan, turn right. Thsi corner is easy to spot, there are signages of both Villa Excellance and Hardin ng Postema.

By bus : Take any bus or mini bus to Tanza or Naic, from Baclaran or Zapote. When you get off at the corner with the Hardin ng Postema signages, it is an easy walk to the resort.

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June 26, 2011 Aguinaldo Shrine, Kawit Cavite

I have viewed this house in awe many times, especially when I make my customary evening drive during the Christmas season, checking out the Christmas lights competition among the many barangays within the whole province of Cavite. I remember seeing hundreds of Capiz shells glittering in the night, spread on a huge tree within the grounds of the shrine. Beautiful.

The house is like no other old house I have visited. Not for its grandeur, but for its intriguing design. It is obvious that a military tactician lived there. So many escape routes, so many concealed doors. The general can go in and out of his bedroom unnoticed by guests he would not want to entertain, or even hide behind a space inside a faux clothes cabinet. A tower on the seventh level allows his men to see any advancing enemies. A trap door under a dining table leads to a tunnel that goes all the way to the church compound. There is also an escape route to the river and on to the sea. Marvelous.

The guide, Mr. Bolivar, peppered my tour with interesting details, and trivia, allowing me to “live those years”.

Here now are photos taken within this majestic mansion. They say a picture paints a thousand words, so here’s a million for you.

This is a photo of how the house looked before

the mansion's grand staircase

Now. The grand staircase.

old beds and furnitur

The rooms are properly labeled, and the guide, Mr Bolivar, provides color to the stories.

 

Mr Bolivar says Gen Aguinaldo was most likely the first victim of medical malpractice

a daughter's bedroom

The balcony where "sins" were committed

the balcony

original furniture

imported lavatory, a rarity in those days

bed and friar's chair

Manila on the horizon

the stairs leading to the tower

the famous "Independence Day" balconyand when was independence proclaimed?

the living room, from the foyer leading to the library

the huge reception hall

the general's bedroom

faux cabinet doors

a grand bathroom in those days

his bed

 

false cabinet door

his safe

details

details

a house for many guests

state functions

the Philippine flag on a post

the family dining room, with an escape route from under the table to the church

the oven

back door

Veterans Hall

the hall

a small swimming pool

the "washing machine"

the general's car

his tomb at the back of the mansion

How to get there:

The Aguinaldo Shrine is in Kawit, Cavite. From Manila, take the CAVITEX from Coastal Road. The Shrine is a few meters before reaching the church in Kawit.

By public transportation, take a jeepney or bus bound for Cavite, Rosario, or Noveleta, making sure it passes thru the town of Kawit (and not via SM Bacoor).

Our guide: Mr. Bolivar

Many thanks to you!

 

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May 9, 2011 Marinduque : more than Moriones

Ask anyone about travel plans to Marinduque, if at all, and the likely answer is to see the famous Moriones festival. But this happens only during the Holy Week.

My two recent explorations of the whole province convinced me that the province is so under-rated, and has so many things to offer to tourists, both local and foreign.

Traveling to an island is always exciting. And Marinduque will more than excite you with its so many islands, white sand beaches, waterfalls,  caves, and historical sites. And access is actually easy – - – it lies at the very center of the Philippine archipelago. You can call it the heart of the Philippines.

I made two one-week visits recently, with only 5 days of stay in Manila in between. And I think I will be coming back for more. Here’s why.

Marinduque has zero crime rate. The only other province that has zero crime rate is my other favorite, Batanes. You can walk around Marinduque and not fear for your life or your belongings.

Marinduque is beautiful. Not your five-star resort destination, but perfect for a getaway on an idyllic town. I toured all six towns (Boac, Gasan, Buenavista, Torrijos, Sta. Cruz and Mogpog) in one day on a hired van (P3,500) on my first day to case the joint, and planned the rest of my stay based on what I saw on my island tour. For this post, I will only write about the capital town. I shall be covering the other towns in separate blog posts. Else this blog entry will be very long and there may not be enough chance to appreciate the beauty of the other towns in one long reading.

BOAC is the capital town and the seat of the provincial government.

Boac Town Hall, being improved on my visit
Provincial Capitol

The streets are paved with old houses made of wood, giving the town a period look. It is easy to walk around Boac, the streets are parallel to each other and finding your way back is not a problem. For culture vultures, a visit to the old library and the cathedral would be mandatory.

Boac Museum and Library

Boac Church, high on a hill

EATING OUT

Restaurants and cafes dot the streets surrounding the town plaza.

Kusina sa Plaza offers inexpensive Pinoy meals, turo-turo style, in airconditioned comfort
fastfood-style roadside cafe
Just opened Holy Week 2011
Casa de Don Emilio overlooks the plaza
feels like Cafe Adriatico in Malate, Manila – - serving P150 buffet dinners !

Boac is the nerve center of the province. Banks and ATMs are available nearby. The airport is 11 kms away from the town center. The busiest port, Cawit, is near the airport. It is also in Boac where visitors take off for the other towns, on the jeepney terminal just off one of the main roads, close to the public market.

the province is serviced only by ZestAir at the moment
Cawit in Boac is the busiest port of entry

WHERE TO STAY IN BOAC

Boac Hotel is The Address in Boac. It is a beautiful old hotel in the quiet end of town, right next to the Boac Church. I like the way the interiors were done, evoking a 60s – 70′s feel. The cafeteria is lined with old vinyl records of Victor Wood and other singers of his era. Old photographs line the walls, as well as ladies bags that were in fashion during those years.

old photos, old ladies bags, vinyl records on the cafeteria wall
arrow root “uraro” from the BOAC Hotel store is a popular pasalubong

There are regular rooms, airconditioned or fanned.

Room 202 for a family, beautiful but there is not a single cabinet. Luggages and clothes stay on the floor, or whatever is left of the cramped space.

The best rooms are on the third floor, reached via narrow stairs. These are the suites – - slightly bigger rooms and the only difference from the de luxe rooms are that these rooms have hot and cold showers.

Suite B at the 3rd floor. P1,800 a night.

Rates start at P1,000 for fan rooms, P1,200 for de luxe airconditioned rooms, P1,800 for suites (they are not big rooms !), and P2,000 for family rooms.

BOAC HOTEL may be contacted at 0915 486 7337. Room rates include fetch from the airport or pier, and breakfast for 2.

EASTPOINT HOTEL is a beach hotel at the far end of Boac. No, you wouldn’t stay here if you have business to attend to within the town center. It is more like a beach holiday hotel.

a twin room at Eastpoint Beach Hotel
a raft on the Eastpoint beach

Eastpoint rates start at P750.00 for a standard double bed. . There are family rooms for 4 persons at P1,600, and cottages for 5 persons at P1,800.00. Contact them at telephone number (042) 332 2229, 0920 900 6892, 0916 744 9529, and 0920 271 8681. Email them at eastpointhotel@gmail.com.  Website is www.eastpointhotle.com

ABBY’s PLACE  is right in front of the wet market.

hotel fronting the wet market
not an ideal location, but rather decent rooms

Rooms start at P700.00. Contact them at telephone number (042) 3322643 xxx

If you are looking for budget accommodations, there are several pension houses in Boac. One such is HAPPY BUNNY, where room rates start at P300, without television, and no airconditioning. A room with a queen size bed for 2, with TV goes for a mere P650. . Electric fans cool the un-screened rooms. A portable airconditioner can be brought into your room at an additional cost.

the pension house that is also the home of the best litson manok in town
a room at Happy Bunny

Contact the owner, Mrs. Cristy del Mundo at telephone number (042)3322040 or mobile number 09195248440


A preview of the other towns, to be covered separately in my blog:

GASAN  is the next town. This town is lined with beach resorts. Clean even while the sand is black, and with some pebbles. The resorts become better as you go further and nearer the next town of Buenavista.

BUENAVISTA is famous for the Bellaroca Resort on Elephant Island. It is too pricey though, and I had to content myself with viewing it from a distance.

TORRIJOS  is my favorite in all of Marinduque. This town is most blessed with the province’s whitest white sand beach. In fact I was told that the white sand in Bellaroca came from the shores of Torrijos, barged to Bellaroca.

STA CRUZ is the largest town, and the jump off point to the small island of Maniwaya. This small island has white sand, a rustic feel, and looks like Boracay before the throng of tourists came in. 

Completing the island tour, just before returning to Boac, is the town of MOGPOG.


HOW TO GET TO MARINDUQUE.

Take a bus to Lucena City. Most buses go all the way to the Dalahican Port. Otherwise, take a tricycle to take you to Dalahican.

By private vehicle, take SLEX and drive on to Lucena. After Tayabas, take the diversion road to skip the city traffic, following the SM Lucena signages. When you hit SM, the side road takes you to Dalahican.

Marinduque is serviced by at least three shipping companies, taking passengers to 3 differetnt ports within Marinduque. The most popular is Montenegro Shipping that leaves Lucena early morning, at midday, and at 4pm. Travel time to Cawit, a barangay in Boac, is 3 hours. Fare is P340. You can load your car on a ro-ro at P1,300 per light vehicle.

On my second trip, I took the 2:30 pm ro-ro from Lucena to Balanacan, in the town of Mogpog, via StarHorse Shipping. This is my recommended route for first timers to Marinduque. Approaching the port, one will be amazed at the several islands passed on the way to the sheltered pier. The other port is Buyabod,  in the town of Sta Cruz, but I have not traveled this route yet.

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February 10, 2011 Bolinao Revisited

Bolinao has become a favorite destination, and Punta Riviera Resort remains my first choice of place to stay. In my previous blog on Bolinao, a reader asked about other accommodations and that made me realize that, unlike my other blog posts, I focused on Punta Rivera. Pardon me for that – - – I couldn’t then find a better place.

the gazebo by the infinity pool of Punta Riviera

the only resort in Bolinao where you can go kayaking by the river beside it

the only resort with a sandbar, for lazing, and venue for beach weddings

jsut added: a spa with sauna and jacuzzi, and this bar by the river

and a brand-new pool table

If you want to know more about this great resort : http://boyplakwatsa.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/bolinao-pangasinan/

But I hear you – - so I went around to see other decent but cheaper places. And I found a gem. Solomon’s Paradise on Patar beach. Nothing like my favorite Punta Riviera. But it has a charm that travelers may not be able to resist.

Solomon’s Paradise is on the far end of the stretch of white sand beach. Almost close to the famous lighthouse.

your private cove

It is a backpackers’ haven. Only 5 rooms made of native materials. Makes one feel like he is staying with a relative in a barrio. The floor is made of bamboo  you can actually see the ground in between the slats. The bed is also made of bamboo, but a mattress stands ready for those who would want a softer bed.

5 rooms all in a row

an almost see-thru floor, just like provincial bamboo houses

The resort is owned by a Brett Solomon, a rather young Australian married to a Filipina. The couple stays in the only concrete Greek-inspired structure that also serves as the kitchen and the bar that opens to a magnificent, and probably unique, view of the ocean.

kitchen - bar

The beach at Solomon’s Paradise is so private it is bounded by rocks on both ends, forming a cove that is exclusive to guests of the resort.

I promised to look for inexpensive accommodations, and here it is. P1,500 per night for 2 persons, P2,400 for 4 persons. The rate goes up by P500 per day during the peak season, but they throw in breakfast with the increased rates. Not bad at all. Now I have a decent place to recommend to friends looking for low-budget but great accommodations.

You may contact Solomon’s Paradise at (+63905) 398 1470 or (+63928) 4748845. Or email them at solomonsparadise@yahoo.com. Visit their website http://solomonsparadise.multiply.com

OTHER ACCOMMODATIONS:


ILOG MALINO

Ilog Malino is a huge property that seemed empty when I visited. Well, it was off-peak. The resort has a swimming pool, huts near the shore, air-conditioned rooms, and a bar that I am told operates when there are a good number of guests.

They didn’t have a tariff sheet ready, but their rates can be viewed from their website www.ilogmalinobeachresort.com.

Or you may call their amiable Resort Manager, Jennyfer Pedroso at mobile numbers (+63939) 6073001, (+63927) 5745866

COCOS BEACH

probably the longest beachfront

After Punta Riviera and Solomon’s Paradise, Cocos Beach is my next choice. Nothing fancy. Just cheap, clean cottages. Aircon or non-aircon. The big plus is that they have family rooms with cooking facilities. They do not operate a restaurant but have an arrangement with a popular restaurant closer to the town center for deliveries.

entry to Cocos

big family room (aircon) with kitchen

family room

smaller, cheaper cottages

a P1,500 per day nipa room

The caretaker showed me the rates as booked by a group coming in March : Family Room, aircon : P4,000, Room for 4, aircon : P3,000, Aircon for 2 persons : P2,000, Bamboo Rooms P2,000. All of these rooms have verandas.

Nipa rooms (fan only) P1,500.

call the numbers above for reservations on peak season

COCOS BEACH contact : Nida at (+63916)6750367 or the numbers listed on the signage as photographed.

SUNDOWNERS

This is a bistro with accommodations on the hill overlooking Silaki Island. Sundowners is NOT within the beach area. Rather, it is at the far end of the town proper, past the municipal wharf. Go past the wharf until a structure ahead blocks your way. To your left is the entrance to Sundowners.

I chanced upon the bistro/hotel while looking for a place for lunch. Fantastic view, but the food was so- so. The warm welcome and the attentive staff kinda made up for the unremarkable meal.

nice watching the busy wharf going to Silaki

the island just across

I was shown the accommodations after going thru 2 flights of stairs. I figured I am not staying here if I am going to have a drink. I might make a wrong step and not make it to my room. The room is clean and bright, though. And the rate is inexpensive at P1,000 per day ( king size bed, aircon, TV). Further up is the villa, also available for guests. The villa, with 3 rooms, accommodates 12 persons at P12,000 per day.

two flights of stairs to this room

don't get drunk nor tipsy before bedtime

You may reserve rooms or the villa thru their Resident Manager, Ms Carmen Chiong at telephone (+6375) 5544203 ot via mobile (+63916)4554496. Or email them at sundownersbistrorestaurantbolinao@yahoo.com

RESTAURANTS

My favorite eatery in Bolinao is Adora’s, a 24-hour eatery serving home-cooked meals. This I call cheap but great. Find Adora;s at the left side of the church, beside ukay-ukay stalls. Visitors are allowed to park inside the church compound.

the beautiful church

turo-turo style, good food, and cheap !

Tummy Teasers is a popular restaurant, and does deliveries to guests in the resorts in Bolinao. They are also the partner-restaurant of Cocos Beach. Find them right aftar CarMak, the turn-off to the beach resorts, coming from the poblacion.

COOK YOUR FOOD!

Near the resorts, just before the bridge, are several stalls selling dorado, yellow fin tuna and other fish varieties caught just a while ago. The stalls also sell vegetables and all the ingredients you might need for your sinigang, pinangat, or whatever.

JUST PHOTOGRAPHED

You may want to also check out the following:

probably the cheapest accommodations along the beach

I knocked but no one answered - - worth a call

I pushed open the gate and called out, no one answered. So I just took this photo from the gate.

this is PROBABLY the rest house for rent mentioned in the poster outside the gate

GOING TO BOLINAO

By private car, the beach resorts are about 5 hours away from the balintawak entry of the NLEX. Take NLEX – SCTEX and exit at Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac. Past SM Tarlac, turn left going to CAMILING. First town you will hit after Tarlac City is San Jose, followed by Sta. Ignacia. And then Camiling, and San Clemente. After San Clemente, you will pass thru the Pangasinan towns of Mangatarem, Aguilar, Bugallon, Labrador, Sual, and Alaminos. The Bolinao beach resorts are an hour away from Alaminos City, passing thru Bani.

You can take buses, and the bus company that travels most to this part is 5-Star, with terminals in Cubao and Pasay City.

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January 30, 2011 Palaisdaan at Kamayan sa Ilog, San Pablo

I actually visited this small resort last year when I was invited by friends to be a resource speaker in a workshop, I have been to San Pablo countless times in the past, when I was not blogging yet. Thus, I do not have photos of my favorite tilapya eateries around Sampaloc Lake. Nor a photo of the magnificent cathedral at the city center. I will confine this post to that recent trip.

Palaisdaan is a small lovely resort perfect for a picnic. Huts and cottages may be rented, and guests can spend the day around the pool. Lodging is available if you plan to stay overnight.

It has a rainforest setting. Vines on trelisses. Cascading waters from ponds and lagoons. Fruit bearing trees like lanzones, rambutan, mango, santol, banana, jackfruit, avocado, and coffee.

 

There is also a mini-mini zoo with an eagle, owls, doves, a peacock, and iguana.

Food can be ordered from the kitchen. The crispy tilapya is a winner.

Visitors who want to spend the day in the resort pay entrance fees of P70 per head, while children are charged P50 per pax. The fees are higher for overnight visits. Huts can be rented at between P500 to p800 depending on size and time of use.

Lodging rates are P1,500 for 12 hours, and only P700 for 4 hours.The rooms are clean, but not great. There are also just 5 0r 6 rooms within the resort.

few rooms

 

 

HOW TO GET THERE

Palaisdaan is at Barangay San Ignacio, San Pablo City, at Km 83 of the Maharlika Hi-way.  To get there, take the diversion road, skipping the city center. It is in the direction of Villa Escudero/Quezon Province, but well within San Pablo City itself. Look to your right. It is near MERALCO.Travel time from manila is approximately 2 1/2 hours.

Contact them at telephone (+6349) 5613164 or mobile number (+63927)5253796, +(63917) 5009282. Email them at cbuncayo@yahoo.com. Visit their website : www.palaisdaan-spc.com

 

ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATIONS

If you want to spend the day at Palaisdaan but wish to stay in a proper hotel, The Coco Palace Hotel is just 5 minutes away, northbound, on the same road.

tel +(6349) 5612271, email: info@cocopalacehotel.com.ph

my 'de luxe" room, P1,456 overnight (P1,975 rate per day)

 

I also checked out the nearby Sanctuario de San Pablo Resort Spa. I failed to bring my camera from the car and so I was unable to take photos. Visit their website to see the lovely sight that I saw in my visit.  I think this is the best possible accommodation in this area, and I could be wrong, too.. It is primarily a spa, but you can book a one-bedroom villa overnight for a P4,500 package that includes complementary breakfast for 2, one hour massage each for 2, plus 10% discount on other spa services and on food and drinks. Visit their website for contact details: www.sanctuariodesanpablo.com

 

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January 29, 2011 Pagudpud, the Boracay of the North

At the northernmost tip of Luzon, 560 kms from Manila,  lies the Ivory Coast of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. My first visit to to the then undeveloped Pagudpud was in the mid 80s, when there were yet no resorts. One had to make arrangements with then Mayor Benemerito to be accommodated at the family’s beach house, and when they did allow, the accommodation was for free.

Pagudpud in the 80s

not so many knew this paradise

Many years later, I went back in the company of officemates on an outing. I couldn’t then recall exactly where the old mayor’s beach house stood.

My last two visits, October 2010 and January 2011 allowed me to piece those memories together.

SAUD BEACH RESORT & HOTEL


Saud is considered by many as the premier destination in Pagudpud. Unlike the other Ivory Coast resorts, coconut trees shield the cottages from the glare of the white sandy beach, giving the property a real, honest-to-goodness tropical setting. Of the beach restaurants in Pagudpud, Saud has the best view of the ocean, making dining an experience to look forward to. Hammocks hung from coconut trees, inviting guests to a nap.

lazing at Saud Beach Resort

no one knew where the ducks originated, and now there are thousands of them

pristine waters - the Boracay of the North

breakfast with a view of the ocean

don't miss the bagnet, with bagoong and kamatis

a beautiful restaurant on the Ivory Coast

The rooms at Saud Beach resort are the best in Pagudpud. They are also the most expensive.Room rates start at P3,619 with family rooms renting out for P6,534. All rooms have TV and refrigerators. Suites have bath tubs.

Contact Saud Beach Resort at (+632) 9289953, (+632) 9212856, +(63918) 9208826, and (+63920) 2706075. Visit their website at http://www.saudbeachresort.com

VILLA DEL MAR

Villa del Mar picnic huts

On my visit two weeks ago, I found out that Villa del Mar was where the old mayor’s cottage stood. This I learned from an old lady who owns the resort, and is  a relative of the former mayor. I actually checked out this facility last year but stayed in Saud. This time we decided to stay at least overnight.

A rather unique attraction at Villa del Mar are two monkeys, Moymoy and Mamay. I nsaw some staff playing with them. Mustering enough courage, I played with Moymoy, too. I didn’t know what he was trying to do but he was reaching inside my pockets. As it turns out, Moymoy always “steals” hankies, mobile phone, or wallets and plays with them. To make it worth his while, I then put some candies in my pocket. It was fun watching him unwrap the candies.

Moymoy

Vista del Mar shares the same sandy shore as Saud’s with only one big resort in between. The choice of where to stay, therefore, is dependent on one’s budget. Vista del Mar has clean, decent rooms at rates lower than Saud’s.

best spot: family room at absolute beachfront

This resort has a huge restaurant with a billiard table at the far end. They also have a swimming pool, even if no one will probably prefer to stay in the pool when you have a beautiful stretch of white sand before you.

restaurant

Room rates start at P1,200, with fan, good for 3. A standard aircon room costs P1,500. Family cottages that can accommodate 6 persons cost P3,500.00

our family cottage, good for 6

Contact Villa del Mar at phone (+63921) 2958196 and (+63919) 8995673

ARINAYA

between Saud Beach Resort and Villa del mar


This resort sits right in the middle of Saud and Villa del Mar. I will probably stay in this resort the next time. For this visit, I inquired about accommodations and rates, and was pleasantly surprised that they are actually cheaper than Villa del Mar. While standard rooms cost pretty much the same as Villa del Mar’s, their family rooms are cheaper, and are on absolute waterfront.

The room settings are also perfect. Two storey cottages directly facing the beach, an al fresco bar/restaurant, and beach huts dotting the sandy shore. Arinaya could just be a favorite.

the patio for drinks al fresco

long stretch of white sand beach

Rates start at P1,500 for aircon rooms. Family rooms cost P3,000 for a maximum of 8 persons.

family cottage on the beach for P3,000

Contact Arinaya at (+63921) 5581366, (+63916) 3931082, (+63915) 3159899 or email them at arinaya_pagudpud@hotmail.com

LUCKY SEA: Budget Accommodation on the beach

Tucked in between Arinaya and Villa del Mar is Lucky Sea, a homestay facility. Do not expect a restaurant or any other facility. Oh yes, you can get a tattoo courtesy of its resident tattoo artists.

Henna, anyone?

cheap rooms on the same glorious stretch on the Ivory Coast

Lucky Sea beach huts

Lucky Sea is more of a backpackers’ place. Contact Mrs Gloria Galera at (+63928) 5393086

OTHER HOMESTAY FACILITIES ON IVORY COAST

homestay, right at the back of Lucky Sea

Other resorts / accommodations:

this resort has a loyal following

THE OTHER PAGUDPUD : the cluster of resorts in Malingay

While visitors to Pagudpud typically know only of Barangay Saud (now known as Ivory Coast) and choose only among the resorts there, there is another cluster of resorts in Pagudpud, in the direction of the Patapat Cliff.

HANNAH’S

the most advertised - - there is a signage every 200 meters

Hannah’s has the most complete facilities on this side of Pagudpud – -  restaurant, billiards and darts, karaoke, surf boards, banana boat, kayak, speed boats, gym, massage, etc. Contact (+63920) 9834659, (+63920) 6057121, (+63910) 4966525 or email info@hannahsbeachresort.com

a friend has stayed here, and the place is beautiful yet very inexpensive

PATAPAT  VIADUCT

On all my trips to Pagudpud, I always  drive through the Patapat Cliff. I’d say it is the most scenic coastal drive there is in the Philippines, driving through a one and a half kilometer road  jutting out of the mountain edges 31 meters above the sea level. Always a lovely sight.

WINDMILLS OF BANGUI

The famous windmills of Bangui can be seen from Saud Beach on a clear day, which is almost everyday in this bright and sunny place.

Read more about the windmills of Bangui :

http://boyplakwatsa.wordpress.com/2010/12/01/the-windmills-of-bangui/

HOW TO GO TO PAGUDPUD:

Provincial buses ply the Manila-Ilocos Norte route, with some going directly to Pagudpud. You may also want to stop in Laoag, the provincial capital, before another ride of about an hour and a half to Pagudpud. From the town center, tricycles can take you to the resort of your choice.

By car, take NLEX-SCTEX, exit in Tarlac, and drive all the way north passing thru Pangasinan, La Union, Ilocos Sur, and finally Ilocos Norte. Drive time to pagudpud from manila is approximately 13 hours.

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January 28, 2011 Hundred Islands

The Hundred Islands is easily the most popular tourist destination in the province of Pangasinan. Well, other than the beaches of San Fabian, the Bolinao Peninsula, and the Manaoag Church.

 

watching over the islands?

the boat ride starts here

It is easy to understand why one would want to go the the Hundred Islands. A visit there will mean you are now only looking at 7, 006 islands to visit from our 7,107 islands (101 islands including Luzon mainland where the visitor is presumably coming from). Guess what? There are fewer islands to go to after, because Hundred Islands is actually a total of 123 islands, but it is of course easier to just say Hundred.

a few of the 123 islands

 

The Tourism Office, I must say, is doing a good job in managing visits to the islands. It is well organized. Banca hires and other fees are regulated, and visitors know exactly what to pay for.

 

Picnic tables P200, overnight P300

rent the PBB house for P10,000, 30 liters of water P100

motorboats at p800 for a daytour for 1-5pax, a large motorboat rented as "service' for P2,000

Tourism Office

well staffed

and visitors are well-informed

 

 

a preview of the islands ahead

 

 

A short day tour will typically take guests to three islands: the Governor’s Island, Quezon island, and the Children’s Island.

Governor’s Island

This is the most developed of the islands, and is where the Governor’s House, renamed PBB (Pinoy Big Brother) house is located.

landing at Governor's Island

from the highest point of Governor's Island

the Pinoy Big Brother house

the other end

Quezon Island

Quezon Island is the most popular, and is where day-tourists most often stay for the day, renting picnic tables and spending the day on the beach.

boat landing on Quezon island

Children’s Island

Accommodations in Hundred Islands

Within the islands, the most decent accommodation is the PBB house that rents out for P10,000 overnight. Most visitors prefer to pitch tents, charged at P200 overnight pitching fee. Still, there are private nipa huts in some islands that can be rented out at P2,000 overnight. Arrangements for these can be made with the Hundred Islands national Park office, at telephone numbers (+6375) 5512505/5527406

Those who do not want to spend the night in the islands, especially those who can not not have electricity, can book themselves in the many inns across from the Tourism Office. I checked out a few:

Villa Milagros


Room rates are PP1,400 for 2, P1,600 for 3, and P1,800 for 4. Generous discounts, as much as 30%, are offered during off peak. Rooms have air-conditioning, and cold showers (no hot showers). Contact Milagros Santiago at (+6375) 5513040 or mobile numbers 0920 8502082, 0922 2436624, and 0915 2187220.

 

Island Tropic

This looks like a modern structure, with a restaurant and bar on the second floor, overlooking the islands. Room rates:

Penthouse                             2 pax with breakfast    P2,500

Barkadahan Room             4 pax                                 P2,000

Matrimonial                         2 pax with breakfast    P1,600

Contact Jerry Noel Mateo, Operations Manager, tel (+63917) 554 0800, (+6375) 6969405

 

HELDEN RESTHOUSE

one of two bedrooms

This is a privately owned house rented out to visitors. Overnight rate is P2,000, negotiable, and is good for a group that wants a place all its own. Contact Lerence Naniaga at mobile number 0918 731 2151

There are  other options available, with contact details visible from the photos

NAJERAS

 

I did not have the time to visit this place

but it does look decent and may be considered

 

MAXINE BY THE SEA

 

I have dined in this place a year ago, and remember that the food was great. They have accommodations, too.

viewed from the wharf

SOUVENIR SHOPPING

 

There are tens of stores selling T-shirts, bags, and other souvenirs, in one section of the complex between the Tourism Office and the wharf. Pay toilets are also available.

 

t-shirts, shorts, hats, bags, etc

 

 

MY FAVORITE EATERY

 

Lando and Yolly are a nice couple

This eatery is the first you will see, coming from the Tourism office. I sat down and asked if they had sinigang, and Aling Yolly said she was still going to cook. I went inside to see what fish she was cooking.

I had freshly cooked sinigang na kitang, and it was so cheap !

choices, would you care for pinakbet?

 

 

or crabs perhaps

in a no-frills outdoor setting

 

HOW TO GO TO HUNDRED ISLANDS

Take the North Luzon Expressway and then the SCTEX all the way to the Tarlac/Luisita exit. In Tarlac, turn left to Camiling. Follow that road, passing thru the towns of Mangatarem and Lingayen. From Lingayer, you will pass by the beautiful coastal towns of Labrador and Sual before you hit Alaminos. In Alaminos, go to the cathedral where the road to the Hundred Islands is just fronting the church itself.

Buses bound for Alaminos and Lingayen originate daily from EDSA and Buendia (Pasay City) terminals. Tricycles can take passengers from Alaminos town to Hundred Islands.

 

 

 

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January 20, 2011 Fort Ilocandia, jewel of Laoag

the grandeur of an era

I first went to Fort Ilocandia a few months after it opened, nearly 30 years ago. I was in a a big group of advertising agency people who were invited by a major TV network for rest-and-recreation in this much talked about hotel – - a typical PR activity by media companies wooing advertisers’ budgets.

I have been coming to Fort Ilocandia since then.

Today, I am told the hotel is being run by foreign investors, the same group running the casino at the second level of the hotel. I have played a few games on the black jack table. I just make sure I leave my ATM cards in my rooms, so I don’t  lose more than I the little that I had budgetted for an hour or so of fun.

the grand staircase to the casino

The hotel has kept its grandeur and, in my book, is still the best hotel in Laoag. For many reasons.

Its architecture is unique. Two-storey buildings sprawling the magnificent garden facing the ocean. Bougainvillas creeping through the brick walls on the verandas, accentuating the lovely balconies of each room.

A fountain that will make you feel like you are in a European plaza.

Guests will not feel idle. They can ride horses along the shore, drive all-terrain-vehicles thru the property, practice their swing on the driving range, or do hole-in-ones in the putting green. There is an Olympic-size pool, beside another one with a cascading waterfall. Drinks can be enjoyed at the bar beside the reception, at the Sunset bar, or at the Lagoon bar, my favorite spot in the resort hotel. There are also beach huts where guests can picnic on the beach. Not to mention the slot machines and the gaming tables at the casino.

The hotel also offers package tours for groups of at least 5 persons. A half-day tour around Ilocos Norte, visitng Paoay Church and the Marcos Museum, among others, costs P750 per person. There are two whole day options. One goes south to the Vigan Heritage Village, and another goes north to Pagudpud, with stops at the beautiful Cape Bojeador lighthouse and the Bangui windmills. The whole day tours cost P900 per head.

Saud Beach, Ivory Coast, Pagudpud

Cape Bojeador lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte

Bangui windmills

WHY FORT ILOCANDIA?

I stay at Fort Ilocandia because the rooms are nice and comfortable, and all rooms have verandas.

Room rates start at P5,600 for a standard twin, to the P50,000 a day Ambassador Suite.There are also several types of suites, the Sunset Suite having been booked by me once or twice.

standard twin

huge veranda facing the ocean on the 2nd-floor Sunset Suite

Sunset Suites cost P15,400. Rooms rates are generally discounted at 30% during off peak. I have also tried, and got, the same discount rate even during peak season – - – these dates are set by the hotels. But when I notice  that occupancy rate is low, like in early January (which they classify as” peak”) I usually get the off-peak rate. Try bargaining, but be prepared to pay the full rate if they happen to be hosting a convention and only few rooms are available.

If you are not taking the tours offered by the hotel, you can do these on your own. I usually drive from the hotel to Sarrat where the biggest attraction is the Sta Monica Church where Irene Marcos and Greggy Araneta were wed.

Locals say that the whole route from Fort Ilocandia to Sarrat was planted with bougainvillas, sourced from landscape contractors throughout the country. It has been said that there were not enough flowering bougainvillas, and teachers started making paper flowers so that those without flowers also looked like they were in full bloom.

From Sarrat, you can drive to Batac to visit the Marcos Mausoleum. Observe silence while inside the air-conditioned mausoleum, viewing the preserved body of the late president.

From Batac you can drive to Paoay Church and drive on to Paoay Lake.

the belltower is an interesting and rather easy climb

After marveling at the church and having climbed the tower, have some snacks at Herencia Cafe. Try their pinakbet pizza, the only one of its kind in the world.

pinakbet pizza, anyone?

just across from the church

Hopefully, the Malacanang ti Amianan would have been open again to the public ( I have visited this beautiful mansion several times, but was told last January 5 that it was closed to the public on orders of the provincial government).

Fort Ilocandia can be booked via +(6377) 6709001, fax (+6377) 6709101, email sales@fortilocandia.com

ALTERNATIVES

I spotted some resorts for low-budget travelers right beside Fort Ilocandia, sharing the same beach. Access is thru the Fort Ilocandia compound, where a driveway to the left, if you are facing the hotel, goes straight to a cluster of huts selling cheap beer, cheap meals, and inexpensive overnight accommodations.

sharing the same beach

HOW TO GO TO ILOCOS NORTE

From Manila, take the North Luzon Expressway and exit in Tarlac. Drive north passing thru Pangasinan, la Union, and Ilocos Sur. Laoag is about an hour’s drive from Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

Several bus companies ply the Manila-Laoag route. PARTAS and Farinas, are the most popular. Farinas Trans is  located in Lacson Blvd. (between Dapitan and Laon Laan Sts.) in Sampaloc, Manila.. Partas Trans has a terminal in Laon Laan, Sampaloc, Manila and in Cubao, Quezon City. (thanks to a reader for providing these details)

Travel time from Manila to Laoag is around 11-12 hours.

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