I have got to admit, I rarely ever check my blog email. Yes, the one I posted on my contact page so people can get in touch with me. I wouldn't know that I was getting a handful of emails until Kuya Andrew (Davao Bloggers Society's President) asked me if I got an email from Resorts World Manila (RWM). So I checked and behold!
I have been exclusively invited to the RWM Christmas Familiarization Tour.
As interesting and exciting as it sounds, I was quite apprehensive at first because I have never been invited to an event this big. And knowing RWM, the words world-class, prestigious, and elite are always attached to it. And buddy, I am none of those things.
I have been exclusively invited to the RWM Christmas Familiarization Tour.
As interesting and exciting as it sounds, I was quite apprehensive at first because I have never been invited to an event this big. And knowing RWM, the words world-class, prestigious, and elite are always attached to it. And buddy, I am none of those things.
This is something far-fetched and different for me. But then, different is something that I always love to try. It is definitely an experience I wouldn't want to miss. So even if it means working double time to make up for the two work days that I won't be around, I gave out a faint, sexy whisper: Resorts World Manilaaaah.
Here. I. Come.
DAY 1: Lunch with the Biggies, Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and Media Appreciation Night
We flew all the way from Davao City and arrived at RWM just in time for lunch. Five of the media people from Mindanao were invited, the two came from Davao Bloggers Society (DBS). It is such and honor that Julie of astoldbyjulz.com and I got to represent DBS. We had a sumptuous lunch and small talk with some people carrying the big names of RWM.
We even had the chance to take photos with director of Annie, Mr. Michael Williams!
After stuffing our tummies with Korean and Japanese food goodness, we checked-in at the premier room of Remington Hotel. And this was my lovely home for two days:
Nothing gets better than this after work has deprived me of sleep the night before the flight. So I threw myself to bed and took a little nap to prepare for the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony and Media Appreciation Night.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Since I am dressed to kill and it's not all the time I would give a damn about my hair (though I had a messy bun that time), a few vanity shots wouldn't hurt. Although I wish I knew how to put a makeup on, para level up sana ang ganda. Char! I even asked Julie to do the brows for me. But since we ran out of time, di na ako nakapagkilay. Di ko tuloy alam kung ano nga ba talaga ang ibig sabihin ng "Kilay is Life". Haha. Geez. Sarah, tigulang na ka.
To welcome the holiday season with its annual Grand Fiesta, a ceremonial tree-lighting ceremony at The Plaza in Newport Mall was held. And we're so glad to witness and be part of it.
Magic is indeed everywhere in Resorts World Manila's Grand Fiesta Manila 2016. Topnotch performances like Yugyugan Nation - featuring the classic dance hits of 70s Filipino icons, Air Supply, and hit children's TV show Hi-5 Fairy Tale of Australia, are just a few ones to watch out for.
Here are some snaps:
Media Appreciation Night
We proceeded to House Manila, Remington Hotel right after the ceremony. It was indeed a grand party for Media people from all over the Philippines. Prizes pa lang malulula ka na sa bongga (at maiinggit at magiging bitter lalo na kung di ka mananalo tulad ko). Mga international trips and cruises lang naman yun. Sigh. But anyway, just by getting invited to this event is more than enough that I would consider myself a winner. I am grateful to have experienced this. Really.
It was a night of music, entertainment, and drinking. But since mga manang kami ni Julie, behave lang po kami. Pati champagne, inichapwera namin. Boo! Walang mag-react please. Haha.
DAY 2: Marriott Grand Ballroom and Annie
We had a chance to tour Marriott Hotel's Ballroom. But before that, picture po muna. Pagbigyan nyo na ako. Everybody knows that I RARELY (almost do not) ever take selfies. Ngayon lang, pleath.
Here are some of Marriot Hotel's interesting interiors:
What followed was a lunch at Passion's in Maxims Hotel. Then I slept until we had dinner at Victoria Harbour Café. Then at night came what I was so excited about:
You see, I have been part of big and small plays in school and church. So it's no surprise that I get ecstatic about musical plays. And I've not seen a real one with grand production. Ever.
But first, since I kind-of prepared for this night (at pinahirapan ako ng buhok ko), let me take a selfie:
The play was about a story of an orphan named Annie who was adopted by a billionaire Oliver Warbucks and it changed their life forever. Yeah, that's pretty much everything.
I know I suck at giving summaries that's why I always get a B on my book reports. Haha. But anyway, it was a heartwarming, wonderful pre-Christmas treat that will inspire you and teach you hope and will definitely make you look onto the bright side of that hard-knock life. It took three hours of my life but it was definitely worth it.
And of course, we also had the chance to have pictures with the cute little darlings of Annie. :)
To cap off the night, would be another selfie. Promise, last na to. I was all smiles for having experienced such prestigious event. Thank you, Resorts World Manila! And everybody from the RWM team, especially Mae and Cristina for spoiling us and taking good care of us. We definitely had an awesome time. No amount of words can express how grateful I am. Again, thank you so much! 'Til then. ♥
Here. I. Come.
DAY 1: Lunch with the Biggies, Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and Media Appreciation Night
We flew all the way from Davao City and arrived at RWM just in time for lunch. Five of the media people from Mindanao were invited, the two came from Davao Bloggers Society (DBS). It is such and honor that Julie of astoldbyjulz.com and I got to represent DBS. We had a sumptuous lunch and small talk with some people carrying the big names of RWM.
We even had the chance to take photos with director of Annie, Mr. Michael Williams!
After stuffing our tummies with Korean and Japanese food goodness, we checked-in at the premier room of Remington Hotel. And this was my lovely home for two days:
I got this large and cozy room all for myself. |
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Since I am dressed to kill and it's not all the time I would give a damn about my hair (though I had a messy bun that time), a few vanity shots wouldn't hurt. Although I wish I knew how to put a makeup on, para level up sana ang ganda. Char! I even asked Julie to do the brows for me. But since we ran out of time, di na ako nakapagkilay. Di ko tuloy alam kung ano nga ba talaga ang ibig sabihin ng "Kilay is Life". Haha. Geez. Sarah, tigulang na ka.
To welcome the holiday season with its annual Grand Fiesta, a ceremonial tree-lighting ceremony at The Plaza in Newport Mall was held. And we're so glad to witness and be part of it.
Magic is indeed everywhere in Resorts World Manila's Grand Fiesta Manila 2016. Topnotch performances like Yugyugan Nation - featuring the classic dance hits of 70s Filipino icons, Air Supply, and hit children's TV show Hi-5 Fairy Tale of Australia, are just a few ones to watch out for.
Here are some snaps:
The cast of Annie surprised us with a Christmas song |
Christmas tree lighting was led by the RWM executives and the cast of Annie. |
I can feel the spirit of Christmas! |
And of course, photo ops and selfie just because. |
We proceeded to House Manila, Remington Hotel right after the ceremony. It was indeed a grand party for Media people from all over the Philippines. Prizes pa lang malulula ka na sa bongga (at maiinggit at magiging bitter lalo na kung di ka mananalo tulad ko). Mga international trips and cruises lang naman yun. Sigh. But anyway, just by getting invited to this event is more than enough that I would consider myself a winner. I am grateful to have experienced this. Really.
It was a night of music, entertainment, and drinking. But since mga manang kami ni Julie, behave lang po kami. Pati champagne, inichapwera namin. Boo! Walang mag-react please. Haha.
DAY 2: Marriott Grand Ballroom and Annie
We had a chance to tour Marriott Hotel's Ballroom. But before that, picture po muna. Pagbigyan nyo na ako. Everybody knows that I RARELY (almost do not) ever take selfies. Ngayon lang, pleath.
Barefaced. But damn, I love Ecoskinlove's baby pink lip balm. And the lighting's good too (hindi po ako maputi ha. haha) :) |
VisMin represent! With friends from Cebu Bloggers Society and Mindanation. Photo by Julie via Davao Bloggers Society |
Here are some of Marriot Hotel's interesting interiors:
This house is edible. |
Annie! |
But first, since I kind-of prepared for this night (at pinahirapan ako ng buhok ko), let me take a selfie:
Excited! |
This is it! :) |
I know I suck at giving summaries that's why I always get a B on my book reports. Haha. But anyway, it was a heartwarming, wonderful pre-Christmas treat that will inspire you and teach you hope and will definitely make you look onto the bright side of that hard-knock life. It took three hours of my life but it was definitely worth it.
And of course, we also had the chance to have pictures with the cute little darlings of Annie. :)
To cap off the night, would be another selfie. Promise, last na to. I was all smiles for having experienced such prestigious event. Thank you, Resorts World Manila! And everybody from the RWM team, especially Mae and Cristina for spoiling us and taking good care of us. We definitely had an awesome time. No amount of words can express how grateful I am. Again, thank you so much! 'Til then. ♥
Our trip to Bacolod has long been planned when Jan and I were invited last February by our Tito Juju to his birthday climb at Kampo Hiyang-hiyang in Talisay, Negros Occidental. Prior to the trip, a Bacolodnon friend tipped us about the places to go and food to eat. He said that Bacolod's specialty are sweets because the people in Bacolod are naturally sweet. And true to his words, I can say everything in Bacolod is indeed sweet... especially the beer.
The beer brewed in Bacolod definitely tastes better than any beer brewed anywhere in the country. But I won't talk about beer here because Bacolod offers more than that.
DAY 1: CALEA PASTRIES AND CAKE, NENA'S ROSE CHICKEN INASAL
The beer brewed in Bacolod definitely tastes better than any beer brewed anywhere in the country. But I won't talk about beer here because Bacolod offers more than that.
DAY 1: CALEA PASTRIES AND CAKE, NENA'S ROSE CHICKEN INASAL
Hence, here's another beach escapade. And this time, it's the famous Boracay baby! :)
"Sabi ninyo, minor climb lang?! Umuwi akong lumpo. Minor ha." - A remark I've heard from a few people I met during our recent climb.
How exactly would you define a minor climb?
Even though I started hiking way back 2006, I don't consider myself a seasoned hiker. I've had years of hiatus so it's no surprise that up until now, I do not know how to distinguish a major from a minor climb. I get a lot of answers from different mountaineers. But I usually take into consideration height and trail difficulty. And I know most people think that way. Kaya kapag sinabing "minor climb", ibig sabihin madali lang. Pabebe. Ideal for beginners.
But I think I got it all wrong.
How exactly would you define a minor climb?
Even though I started hiking way back 2006, I don't consider myself a seasoned hiker. I've had years of hiatus so it's no surprise that up until now, I do not know how to distinguish a major from a minor climb. I get a lot of answers from different mountaineers. But I usually take into consideration height and trail difficulty. And I know most people think that way. Kaya kapag sinabing "minor climb", ibig sabihin madali lang. Pabebe. Ideal for beginners.
But I think I got it all wrong.
Ugis Peak, located in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat is not known to many mountaineers. So when I was invited for a fun, minor climb at Ugis Peak, I googled for information but much to my dismay the results didn't give me the answers that I needed except that it rises 930 ft above sea level (I couldn't even verify the source because it seems higher than that). I was empty-handed on what to expect and how difficult the trail would be. In short, the mountain was unknown, unspoiled, and underestimated.
Ugis Peak as seen from the deck where I'm standing on |
I have been warned a thousand times that it's not easy to get there. But what they don't realize is that they are talking to Sarah. What would not be easy for me? *smirks*
Balut Island can be crossed with 50 to 70-seater cargo vessels from the port of General Santos City, which usually only sail at night and most often fully booked. And depending on the vessel, the journey takes about 6-8 hours. Since we only have the weekend to explore the southernmost point of the Philippines, taking the alternative route - the fastest, shortest albeit thrilling ride - would be our best option to make the most out of our trip,
We went to Brgy. Margus, Glan - a two-hour drive away from GenSan - where we hired a small fishing vessel just enough to charter the six of us to the Port of Mabila. After deliberate negotiations, we agreed to pay Php 6,000 for the boat to take us to Balut Island, some neighboring islands, and back the next day.
We hopped aboard only to realize that we'll all be basking under the 10-AM-til-high-noon sun since the boat didn't have any shade at all. Great. Sunugan ng balat na ito. Well, sunog na dati ang balat ko kaya lubos-lubusin na lang natin. Although I was secretly hoping the heavens would weep because it was that hot.
We went to Brgy. Margus, Glan - a two-hour drive away from GenSan - where we hired a small fishing vessel just enough to charter the six of us to the Port of Mabila. After deliberate negotiations, we agreed to pay Php 6,000 for the boat to take us to Balut Island, some neighboring islands, and back the next day.
We hopped aboard only to realize that we'll all be basking under the 10-AM-til-high-noon sun since the boat didn't have any shade at all. Great. Sunugan ng balat na ito. Well, sunog na dati ang balat ko kaya lubos-lubusin na lang natin. Although I was secretly hoping the heavens would weep because it was that hot.
To More Adventures and Beyond (An Anniversary Trip in Iligan)
By Sarah Aterrado - May 04, 2016
"You have found a keeper", a friend once told me.
"Why do you say so? You don't even know him."
"I don't. But not all couples are cut to travel together."
I flashed a silly grin.
"Why do you say so? You don't even know him."
"I don't. But not all couples are cut to travel together."
I flashed a silly grin.
I won't make this long. In fact, I am just going to copy what I have said on Facebook. I don't really feel like writing anything as I am going through something quite devastating. But I owe this blog a lot of posts already. So if my thoughts do not come out nice (or do not come out at all), please pardon me. The fire that is devouring more than 300 hectares of Mt. Apo National Park feels like a stake being driven into my heart. And the bigger and further the fire goes, the deeper the wound gets. I might sound a little too overreacting but this is how I truly feel.
Today is the sixth day Mt. Apo is engulfed in fire. It pains me to know a place I've always considered home turn into ashes. And what hurts more is when I have seen it with my very eyes. I hate a lot of things this moment. I hate the irresponsibility that caused the damage. I hate how inept, inutile, and insensitive our national government is when it comes to matters like this. And I hate being weak and frail for I cannot do anything but watch helplessly from the sidelines and pray to the Almighty for a heavy downpour. If only I can do something more, other than just disseminating information and offering monetary help, then I might feel a little better.
A few days ago, I came home from a bittersweet climb. Unfortunate things do happen, I just didn't expect it to be this horrible and depressing.
I am posting this because I want to share with you Mt. Apo in its full magnificence and glory - which I never thought would be the last we'll ever see.
Today is the sixth day Mt. Apo is engulfed in fire. It pains me to know a place I've always considered home turn into ashes. And what hurts more is when I have seen it with my very eyes. I hate a lot of things this moment. I hate the irresponsibility that caused the damage. I hate how inept, inutile, and insensitive our national government is when it comes to matters like this. And I hate being weak and frail for I cannot do anything but watch helplessly from the sidelines and pray to the Almighty for a heavy downpour. If only I can do something more, other than just disseminating information and offering monetary help, then I might feel a little better.
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I am posting this because I want to share with you Mt. Apo in its full magnificence and glory - which I never thought would be the last we'll ever see.
Brrr.
We were about 2,800 meters above sea level - that's just a hundred meters more to summit, maybe a few miles left to trek. I was clearly unfazed by the terrain. I was already told it was an easy trek. But still, for weeks, Jan and I conditioned our bodies for this. And it did pay off for it was definitely a walk in the park with a few uphills and steep climbs that did not seem to bother me. I never found myself catching my breath. And I could go on without taking little breaks. BUT I had to will myself to endure the cold that's never in Davao nor in any place that I've been to. Not even in Mount Apo. I have never shivered like this in Mount Apo. I had on me three layers of jacket and I can still feel the cold pierce my bones.
But the thought of those photos of every blogger who posted a perfect photo of Mount Pulag's summit was enough to propel me to go on. I know that's not what climbing is all about. But you see, we traveled more than a thousand miles from Davao and had to file a 2-day leave (without pay) for this. Judging from our time and financial resources, this is a climb that I might only do once. So a foggy view at the peak is the last thing I would want. Whatever we see up there, I sincerely hoped it was worth it.
We were about 2,800 meters above sea level - that's just a hundred meters more to summit, maybe a few miles left to trek. I was clearly unfazed by the terrain. I was already told it was an easy trek. But still, for weeks, Jan and I conditioned our bodies for this. And it did pay off for it was definitely a walk in the park with a few uphills and steep climbs that did not seem to bother me. I never found myself catching my breath. And I could go on without taking little breaks. BUT I had to will myself to endure the cold that's never in Davao nor in any place that I've been to. Not even in Mount Apo. I have never shivered like this in Mount Apo. I had on me three layers of jacket and I can still feel the cold pierce my bones.
But the thought of those photos of every blogger who posted a perfect photo of Mount Pulag's summit was enough to propel me to go on. I know that's not what climbing is all about. But you see, we traveled more than a thousand miles from Davao and had to file a 2-day leave (without pay) for this. Judging from our time and financial resources, this is a climb that I might only do once. So a foggy view at the peak is the last thing I would want. Whatever we see up there, I sincerely hoped it was worth it.
It was still dark when when we reached the summit. The sky was illuminated by stars but it wasn't enough for me to see whatever's below us. It was just a vast and limitless horizon colored in pitch black. It didn't rain that night and the weather was perfect - which I thought was a good thing. But I was told it's not a guarantee we will see what we were here for. The weather in the mountains are an unpredictable lot - they can go from the most picture perfect sunny weather to the most unforgiving terrible conditions in a matter of seconds. If you're lucky, you'll marvel at the wondrous view of the playground of the gods. If not, well, let's just say it's the journey that really matters.
I kept my hopes up while setting my expectations low. I don't even know how's that possible. But I was in between feeling okay lang kung foggy and okay na okay kung cloudy moment. Unsure of what's stored for us, all I can do was collapse onto the shrubs, sleep, and wait.
Then streaks of yellow light started coming out from afar. The sun's rays were peeking and I can already see the endless and breathtaking view of the sea of clouds. Perfect! It was even more beautiful than I have imagined.
I was still shivering. I started to feel my thigh muscles becoming sore. Air was definitely thin and I was already drawing deep breaths. But whatever it was that I felt that moment, EVERYTHING WAS ALL WORTH IT.
I kept my hopes up while setting my expectations low. I don't even know how's that possible. But I was in between feeling okay lang kung foggy and okay na okay kung cloudy moment. Unsure of what's stored for us, all I can do was collapse onto the shrubs, sleep, and wait.
Then streaks of yellow light started coming out from afar. The sun's rays were peeking and I can already see the endless and breathtaking view of the sea of clouds. Perfect! It was even more beautiful than I have imagined.
I was still shivering. I started to feel my thigh muscles becoming sore. Air was definitely thin and I was already drawing deep breaths. But whatever it was that I felt that moment, EVERYTHING WAS ALL WORTH IT.
How do I even begin this post? I have already spent 10 minutes just staring at the blinking cursor of this blank page and the rest of 50 minutes were spent just looking at all our pictures in Mt. Pulag (for the nth time).
I'm still lost for words.
With this beauty, who wouldn't?
Well, first of all, I would like to thank Jan. Just a few months ago, he surprised me with a flight itinerary from Davao to Manila. Plus pogi points agad. Siyempre, I would finally be able to conquer Luzon's highest peak, not to mention, on a Valentine's Day. How's that for a gift? Better than all your bouquets, chocolates, teddy bears, and cheesy cards combined. Haha. ♥
I'm still lost for words.
With this beauty, who wouldn't?
Well, first of all, I would like to thank Jan. Just a few months ago, he surprised me with a flight itinerary from Davao to Manila. Plus pogi points agad. Siyempre, I would finally be able to conquer Luzon's highest peak, not to mention, on a Valentine's Day. How's that for a gift? Better than all your bouquets, chocolates, teddy bears, and cheesy cards combined. Haha. ♥
Baguio is by far my favorite city next to Davao.
There are actually lot of things to do and places to go to in Baguio. But I'll be honest, the very reason why I was excited to visit Baguio would be the strawberries. I can ditch just any other tourist spots in Baguio, but not the experience of picking strawberries.
Jan and I only had a day in Baguio, so I have to make sure we get to pick strawberries and have a lot of rest afterwards because we'll be having an exhausting adventure the next day.
We arrived in Baguio at around 5 o'clock in the morning and the first thing that greeted me was the cold breeze. I was already having chills inside the bus and it even got colder the moment I stepped out of it. I would rather board back into the bus, and even with the aircon turned into full blast, I would still feel much better.
There are actually lot of things to do and places to go to in Baguio. But I'll be honest, the very reason why I was excited to visit Baguio would be the strawberries. I can ditch just any other tourist spots in Baguio, but not the experience of picking strawberries.
Jan and I only had a day in Baguio, so I have to make sure we get to pick strawberries and have a lot of rest afterwards because we'll be having an exhausting adventure the next day.
We arrived in Baguio at around 5 o'clock in the morning and the first thing that greeted me was the cold breeze. I was already having chills inside the bus and it even got colder the moment I stepped out of it. I would rather board back into the bus, and even with the aircon turned into full blast, I would still feel much better.
I was never built for the cold. I lack those natural thermal insulators a.k.a fats that could have given a little resistance. I knew Baguio is cold but I never expected it to be freezing that my fingers numbed and my body shivered at the gentle blow of the wind that then and there I wished for a glass of warm milk. And I don't even like milk. But I swear, I'd be willing to chug one down in exchange of heat. I don't really remember what cold is anymore. The heatwave in Davao has spread to my brain, toasted it, and erased every memory I have of what it feels like to be cold.
Then out of the corner of my eye, I saw a taho vendor. A strawberry taho definitely sounds better than milk. So I bought one to save my cold butt from freezing. The warm soy pudding treat made me feel better that I gobbled it up in no time. It was so good, Iwasn't able to didn't leave any for Jan. Haha.
And now that I'm blogging about it, I realize that I should have taken photos of the food we ate or places we went to. If I wasn't such a lazy person, that strawberry taho would have been instagram or blog post worthy, and then I would have tons of pictures to share, too. The Session Road in Baguio alone has a lot of tiny wonders and I don't have a single photo of it. Sigh.
Then out of the corner of my eye, I saw a taho vendor. A strawberry taho definitely sounds better than milk. So I bought one to save my cold butt from freezing. The warm soy pudding treat made me feel better that I gobbled it up in no time. It was so good, I
And now that I'm blogging about it, I realize that I should have taken photos of the food we ate or places we went to. If I wasn't such a lazy person, that strawberry taho would have been instagram or blog post worthy, and then I would have tons of pictures to share, too. The Session Road in Baguio alone has a lot of tiny wonders and I don't have a single photo of it. Sigh.
I know, I know. I fail as a blogger. But I won't apologize for my lack of effort in trying to fit in into the world of social media where everybody just knew stuff about you. Like what you did, where you went, what you wore, or what you ate.
Anyway, I still took a few photos. Here's how we spent our day in this charming little city. We definitely love it here. We had a blast.
And oh, the strawberry ice cream was good too. :)
Anyway, I still took a few photos. Here's how we spent our day in this charming little city. We definitely love it here. We had a blast.
First time to ride on a tandem bike. |
And it was fun. |
Tried rowing the boat but I had difficulty handling it. Haha. |
Let me take you down to the strawberry fields. |
Yummy! Patikim-tikim pag di nakatingin ang bantay. Haha |
Strawberry fields forever! |
And oh, the strawberry ice cream was good too. :)
(My allergies have subsided a little. The itch become tolerable and now I can blog about the third and last part of our Bucas Grande escapade. Although, this no longer took place in Bucas Grande.)
If you have read my previous posts: Part 1 and Part 2, you would know the sole reason why we had to stop by Surigao del Sur, when we could have just went straight home to Davao City instead.
Food. SEAFOOD.
If you have read my previous posts: Part 1 and Part 2, you would know the sole reason why we had to stop by Surigao del Sur, when we could have just went straight home to Davao City instead.
Food. SEAFOOD.
After a series of unfortunate hunger games event on our first day, it's about time for real adventure at the bewitching wonders of the Sohoton Cove.
But since Sohoton Cove is only accessible during low tide, we went spelunking to the deep wonders of Bucas Grande, the Crystal Cave and Bolitas Cave, to pass time.
Before you proceed, I'd like to say that I am no travel blogger. There is no way I can be as detailed as other Pinoy travel bloggers about my trips. But I try. I really do. The thing is, we never had an itinerary when it comes to our getaways. And this trip is no different. So I really cannot help you if you want to have a well-planned and convenient trip. We always do everything spontaneously and I believe that's what makes things exciting as it leaves a lot of room for adventure and off-beat experiences. But if you want to know about our misadventures and how we dealt with it, read on. You might learn a thing or two. ;)
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Our Bucas Grande escapade was just one of our come-what-may trips. We only had a day left before the said trip and we were still not able to decide whether to go chasing waterfalls in Iligan or go island hopping in Bucas Grande. But just when we finally decided to go for the latter, all for one reason: FOOD (seafood to be exact), Bretch injured his ankle - making our chances of pushing this trip slim.But with a little convincing and lies telling him he would no longer feel the pain when we get there, we went on equipped with only the knowledge on how to get to Hayanggabon Port, Claver, Surigao del Norte. And after that, once we embark the boat, everything is in blank slate - uncertain of what's stored for us. But only one thing I know is certain, this is going to be one hell of an adventure.
It was a sleepless, butt-numbing 14-hour trip from Davao City to Surigao del Norte (Davao-Butuan-Bad-as-Hayanggabon Port). But I really don't mind such long trips knowing that I'm with this guy:
It was a sleepless, butt-numbing 14-hour trip from Davao City to Surigao del Norte (Davao-Butuan-Bad-as-Hayanggabon Port). But I really don't mind such long trips knowing that I'm with this guy:
We may have quiet moments, but it's never boring with him around. |
There is something about waterfalls that draws me to it. Perhaps it's the sound the raging waters create as water drops from above, releasing "feel good" mists when you're close to it. Or simply because waterfalls - no matter how small or big they are - are powerful, majestic, and beautiful. I have the same reaction to the sea as well - the sound of the waves resonates positive vibes. Nature indeed has wonderful ways of removing negative energies from within. And this is why despite the conveniences and comforts the city life brings, my body will always seek refuge in communing with nature no matter how inconvenient or uncomfortable it can become.
This is the beautiful Aliwagwag Falls, located in Cateel, Davao Oriental. Deemed as the highest waterfalls in the Philippines, this photo has not even shown its full glory. I took this photo right after I had a little accident. I was walking up the bridge to get a better view and angle. I was so mesmerized by the cascading beauty that without a warning my foot slipped into a water drainage and I fell over. I got up immediately, took this shot like nothing happened before I realized I was bleeding. That small mishap left me with a nasty scraped shin about four inches big - not as big as the memories I have of this place though. Charaught! Haha. But really, I ought to be extra careful next time.
Kadayawan Festival was a blast. And I'm sure of that even though I wasn't actually there to witness it. I grew up celebrating Kadayawan Festival in Davao City and it has always been great. Not that I'm not proud of it, but for a change, Jan and I decided to escape the crowd and took a 5-hour ride to Mati, Davao Oriental instead.
After all the stress from work last week, I believe we deserve this much needed break. Well, what can I say? I think I left my heart in Mati - home of the famous Dahican Beach. It is by far the best beach I've ever been. I love how it remains underdeveloped, unspoiled, and untamed. And despite the number of tourists, skimboarders and surfers around, there was a sense of tranquility.
I couldn't count the number of times I've told Jan how the beach took my breath away. The turquoise waters, white sand, the big and playful waves, plus the sunny weather just made everything perfect. When we decided (out of impulse) to go to Mati, I didn't know we were in for a treat!
After all the stress from work last week, I believe we deserve this much needed break. Well, what can I say? I think I left my heart in Mati - home of the famous Dahican Beach. It is by far the best beach I've ever been. I love how it remains underdeveloped, unspoiled, and untamed. And despite the number of tourists, skimboarders and surfers around, there was a sense of tranquility.
I couldn't count the number of times I've told Jan how the beach took my breath away. The turquoise waters, white sand, the big and playful waves, plus the sunny weather just made everything perfect. When we decided (out of impulse) to go to Mati, I didn't know we were in for a treat!
Exploring Panglao: Dolphin Watching - Balicasag Snorkeling - Virgin Island
By Sarah Aterrado - July 30, 2015
Sun, sand, and the sea. What else can make me more excited?
Dolphins.
Yes, dolphins.
I've always wanted to go swimming with the dolphins *points at the bucket list at the bottom right side of this blog*. No, I haven't swam with one. Not yet. But dolphin watching is the closest it can get. :)
Virgin Island. Where the water meets the heavens. |
Dolphins.
Yes, dolphins.
I've always wanted to go swimming with the dolphins *points at the bucket list at the bottom right side of this blog*. No, I haven't swam with one. Not yet. But dolphin watching is the closest it can get. :)