How to Get to Burot Beach in Calatagan, Batangas

Going to Burot Beach in Calatagan, Batangas:

About 2 hours away from Metro Manila, you'll enjoy this hidden paradise of Burot Beach. From Southwest Terminal in Coastal Road, Paranaque City, take a air conditioned bus bound to Calatagan. Fare is Php. 290.00 per person or you may try the bus going to Lian, Batangas. From then take a jeepney to Calatagan Public Market (Fare is Php 25.00). As you reached the market, ride a tricyle going to the beach which is about 30 minutes away from the town proper. Haggle the price to Php 150.00 two way. You'll passing through a rough road going to the center of the beach. From the guard house, just ask permission and inform him that you want to swim or over night in Burot Beach which is a privately owned property of SM. Entrance Fee is Php. 60.00 for day tour and Php. 150.00 for overnight stay. Happy Trip Everyone.

A Charm of Burot Beach in Calatagan, Batangas

Burot Beach 2013 in Calatagan Batangas! One of those favorite summer destination in the country, about 2 hours away from Metro Manila. This is one of my bucket list for the year 2013. Discovering and experiencing the beauty of Burot White Beach in a hidden & unspoiled beach of Calatagan, Batangas. I planned my trip in a weekday to experience less crowd in the area. Truly amazing, wonderful getaway and beautiful hidden white beach in Calatagan, Batangas. You can do sun-bathing, snorkeling with fishes and corals, swimming with this pristine white sand and blue water, can also do island hopping in the nearby island of Calatagan. The beach has no electricity, so make sure all your gadgets and batteries were fully charged. No parking fees & no cottages or rooms available in area.  Here are some of the fees in the Burot Beach: Entrance fee for whole day - Php. 60.00 / Overnight stay - Php. 120.00 / Tent Rental: Day - Php. 150.00 & Night - Php. 300.00 ( good for 3-4 person).

Also bring your own foods and drinks during you trip. There is a store in the area but expect higher price.  They have about 4 restrooms in the resort and also have shower and wash area. Don't expect good rest room as  the ones in some hotel but overflowing water is available for free.

White Beach Resort in Calatagan Batangas

After a quick getaway from Matabungkay Beach in Lian, Batangas, I proceed to Calatagan Batangas to check out hidden beach of Burot. About 30 minutes away from Calatagan Town Proper. This white beach resort is actually a hidden gems of Calatagan because of it's white sand beach area, blue and clean water. Perfect for a summer trip with your barkada and family. The resort was well-maintained and looked to be a perfect camping destination. Just get yourself a quick place to relax and in the front of a white sand beach, beautiful sunset, rocky side of the resort and calm, blue and clean water. This place is not yet commercialized but this property was already been bought by SM and will be developed soon. The place is amazingly beautiful and surely you will enjoy. I hope SM Property will preserve the beauty of Burot Beach.

It was a solo traveling that time! Looking forward to be back to have wonderful getaway again. I will highly recommend this place to my friends and family. Rest, Relax, Chat, Sun Bathing & Dive!

How to Get to Matabungkay Beach in Batangas

Going to Matabungkay Beach Resort in Lian, Batangas:

About 2 hours away from Metro Manila, you can enjoy cheap beach water adventure in Batangas. To get there for a typical commuter and budget traveler, there are a lot of buses in Cubao, Buendia & Pasay bound to Batangas City. Just tell the conductor or driver to drop you off at Lian, Batangas. Travel time is 1 hour and 30 minutes which cost you about Php. 150-160 pesos. From Lian Public Market, jeepneys are available to take you directly to Matabungkay Beach Resort. There is no entrance fee in the resort and open to public. Happy Trip Everyone :-)

What to do & Activities in Matabungkay Beach Resort, Batangas

Nowadays, there are a lot of activities to choose in Matabungkay Beach Resort, Lian Batangas. The beachfront is look nice and cheap getaway near from Manila & other nearby provinces. Matabungkay has their own fun activity like pedal boat, kayaking, floating bamboo raft or balsa ride, banana boat ride and other activities in a cheaper price. Henna Tattoo and Videoke is available in the area. If you want to experience a good water sports adventure, try this shop - Matabungkay Aqua World, just beside from the beach front. Fees is ranging Php 100 and up. Great awesome water activities.

This activities I listed are just some of the must-try things to do if your going to Matabungkay Beach Resort in Lian, Batangas. Happy Trip Everyone.

A Glimpse of Matabungkay Beach Resort in Batangas

After almost 5 years, I had a chance to visit this place again. Matabungkay Beach is one of the famous beach bumming area in Batangas, about 2-3 hours drive away from Manila. This place is open to the public at very cheap price compare to other nearby resort, you can also bring your own foods and liquor drinks. There has been a lot of changes in the area. The beach is no longer the same, a lot of building, restaurant and balsa all over the place but there are two good resorts in the area like Coral Beach & Matabungkay Beach Club with a good service and facilities. Actually, the beach is pretty if there wasn't too much cottages, floating balsa and permanent houses that makes the beach looks crowded, dirty and loose its natural and bountifulness as the nature. I like the weather that day, with blue water and nice to swim all day. Some of the restaurants offers wide variety of seafood which is provided by local. I will recommend for those people who are in tight budget but wish to enjoy summer getaway. 

San Miguel Beer Oktoberfest 2013 Photos

Here are some of the latest pictures of last SMB Oktoberfest 2013 Kick Off at The Gate Cluster, Taytay Rizal, Philippines, dated September 14, 2013.  Entrance is free! There has a lot of live entertainment band and genre like reggae, classical, rock, pop and acoustic as well. Another successful beer day which brings people a one night event full of entertainment, overflowing beer, great foods, games and prices. This event is organized by Rastamanila Latageros (Glowing Basket Productions) & San Miguel Beer Sales featuring El Kombo, Hailajuana, Irie-I, Jeck Pilpil, Katribu Kolektib, Lion and the Scouts, Reggae Mistress, Superkendi, The Blanc, Shurevibe and many more.  Check out more incoming schedules this month. Oktoberfest 2013 Na! Happy Beer Day Everyone.

How to Get to Taal Basilica Church in Batangas

Going to Taal Basilica Church in Batangas:

There are some of easiest way to go to Taal in Batangas. But I prefer Baclaran-Cavite-Tagaytay routes and other option is Alabang-SLEX-Tagaytay. About 2-3 hours away from Metro Manila. Passing through Tagaytay City in Cavite is one of the best way going to the Municipality of Taal in Batangas. Now, take a bus or van bound for Lemery, Batangas which is buses located at Southwest Terminal in Coastal Road, Paranaque City or van at Pasay City near MRT or LRT Station. Ask the driver whether it will pass through Taal Town Proper. Happy Trip Everyone :-)

Asia's Biggest Church is the Taal Basilica in Batangas

A must-stop ever in Batangas! This was part of my itinerary during my solo trip in Taal, Batangas. These is known to be the Largest and Biggest Catholic Church in Asia located at the heart of the Province of Batangas. My first impression is yes, it is really big in the outside. Before going inside the church, I take a photo at the Taal signage. At the inside looked beautiful, nice architecture design, well maintained facilities and colonial inspired ceiling but I noticed that the drawing on the ceiling is wallpaper and it is not smoothly paste on the wall.  This church can easily reached by bus or private car and the best attraction in Batangas. I like old churches in the Philippines and Taal Basilica Catholic Church is one of the most beautiful picturistic church back ground.

I hope it will maintain it's old structure and design of the church. Visit this Basilica and be transported back to the Spanish colonial era. Check out my next blog post on How To Get to Taal Basilica Catholic Church in Batangas. 

Touring Around the Heritage Town of Taal in Batangas

It was a sunny morning when I arrived in Taal town proper. They have a lot of ancestral houses around the area and really a fun solo tour. The municipal hall is in front of Taal Basilica which is known to be the Asia's Biggest Church. Amazingly, different to some areas in the Philippines because several of those century-old ancestral homes and mansion have been preserved and many of which were the homes to National Heroes like Marcela Agoncillo, maker of the Philippine Flag.

It become one of my favorite heritage site next to Vigan in Ilocos Sur and you should visit Taal Heritage Town.

Swimming Pool Area of Aplaya Beach Resort in Batangas

I had an excellent experience in Aplaya Beach Resort in Batangas. I don't like the beach front area but the pool area gave me a nice view and cozy atmosphere.  The resort had a 2 swimming pool area, water is clean and had a cover blue net. It was a good thing I was there on a weekday and no guest that time. It is a great place if you want to relax near the town proper of Taal in Batangas. The pool landscape is great and has big parking area for their guest. I like the Asian inspire architecture of their lobby and main gate. About the food in the resort, it is a little bit expensive with both local and international dishes is available. The location is really nice, not far from Manila which is passing through Tagaytay for an extra sightseeing. The resort is not too big and not so overcrowded .

Day Tour at Aplaya Beach Resort in Batangas

From the Taal Church, I took a tricyle going to Aplaya Beach Resort and about 15-20 minutes away from the town proper. This is the only beach resort offers a good service and amenities. Great exclusive getaway for your families and big group. The resort fixtures and design is beautiful, well maintained and quite place to relax. They have a great view of Batangas coastline and nearby island across the resort. The beach area is not perfect for snorkeling or outdoor activity rather to stay on their pool area. About 2-3 hours drive from Manila, it was recently renovated to improve their services and rooms. Food is good and friendly staff. The staff were really accommodating and smiling all the time.  For a budget traveler like me, I prefer to book during peak season. The rooms rate is quite expensive.

San Miguel Beer Oktoberfest Schedules 2013: Isang Bansa, Isang Inumin

Updated: San Miguel Oktoberfest 2013 Schedules on September 13 and 14, 2013. San Miguel Beer Corporation is the number one and largest producer of different beer in the country.  Are you ready for this year's event of SMB Oktoberfest 2013 here in the Philippines. This is the annual celebration and much-awaited event every year so please check out below. There will be more upcoming schedules nationwide all over the country. So please bookmark this page and update you a soon as possible time. Isang Bansa - Isang Inumin. Oktoberfest Na! Tara Na!

What I Expect During 24th Philippines Travel Mart 2013

My friend and I decided to have a quick meet up at SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City to witness the yearly event of PHILTOA ( Philippine Tour Operators Association) which features a lot of tourist destination in the country.  This is what I expected a lot of ticket sales, interesting place, hotel promo, food bazaar and dance competition as well. Entrance fee is Php. 50.00 last September 6, 2013(Friday). Venue: SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.

24th Philippine Travel Mart 2013 Photos

Here are the photos of 24th Philippine Travel Mart held at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, September 6 - 8, 2013. For the best travel deals for you next vacation, this is the place to be! A lot of travel agencies, airline company and affiliate with Department of Tourism gathered in one event for a purpose of engaging travel best deals and promo. There are a lot of delegate on the first day. This year's event tagline " Travel More, Live More" It's more fun in the Philippines which promote country best travel destination and supported by Philtoa.

Batangas City: Basilica of the Immaculate Concepcion Church

This church is near from the City Hall of Batangas and nearby establishment as well. I like the architecture design of the church with a modern details. A fresh look of the altar and unique architecture is one of the most popular view of this church. Batangas City is known to be the first class city in the province. Did you know that this church of Immaculate Concepcion in Batangas is one of the oldest church in the Province.

How to Get to Sky Ranch in Tagaytay from Southwest Terminal, Coastal Road

Going to Sky Ranch in Tagatay or Sky Eye: Thrills in the Hills

How to Get There: For commuting by bus, from Southwest Terminal, located at  Coastal Road, Paranaque City take a bus bound to Tagaytay or Nasugbu, then passing through CAVITEX. Ask the driver to drop you off at the national highway going to Sky Ranch near Taal Vista Hotel. Bus fare from Coastal Road to Tagaytay is Php. 77 per person. Travel Time is about 1 hour and a half. Note: It was a quite hard to wait buses going to Tagaytay. You may also try bus from Buendia and Pasay because there are alot of public buses within those area. Happy Trip - Bisayang Manlalakbay Around the Philippines.

Tagaytay's Sky Ranch with Overlooking View of Taal Volcano

Sky Ranch in Tagaytay has a great view of Taal Volcano & Lake. It was a great view on the top. Seeing the magnificent view of the volcano, makes me stress-free day during my solo trip. I always want to have a great photo and my main goal was to try the Sky Eye or Tagaytay Eye. It was a fun experience and relaxing day. The location is crowded and need to have more space for other activities. The park has more rides to offer like Super & Mini Viking, Nessi Coaster,  Red Baron, Wonder Flight, Express Train, Carousel & Horse Back Riding. They open during Monday-Thursday from 3:00pm to 12:00mn & Friday-Sunday from 12nn to 12mn. .Gazevo ranging Php. 750 to 1,000.

Sky Eye: is now the Tallest Ferris Wheel in The Philippines

Yes, beating the tallest ferris wheel of MOA Eye in SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City. Now this is the newest attraction in Tagaytay City which is located along the highway of Tagaytay-Nasugbu Road and beside Taal Vista Hotel, one of the best hotel in Tagaytay. This area is been developed by SM Land, sister company of SM Group of Companies and definitely one of the awesome adventure for all locals & tourist. I like the colorful light show during the evening and the height is about 63 meters tall with 32 white gondolas and can fit for 3-4 person only. I had an amazing time at Sky Ranch, they have a lot of restaurant and different rides. Well, during my trip no much expectation and just a tallest ferris wheel in the area but they also have horse back riding or try the train ride within the park. There are more available rides now. It was a reasonable entrance fee of Php 50.00 per person and rides ranging from Php 100 to 180 pesos. Best time to go during weekend and they have a small parking area that's the problem with you go during weekend ( Saturday or Sunday).

How to Get to Nuvali in Sta. Rosa Laguna

Going to Nuvali in Santa Rosa, Laguna:

From Alabang in Muntinlupa. Here's the quick guide, ride a jeep at South Station Terminal near Alabang Market. Ask the security where you can ride a jeep bound to Balibago, Laguna via South Luzon Express Way then passing through Binan, Cabuyao then Santa Rosa. Fare is about Php. 25 per person and travel time is 1 hour and a half. Ask the driver to drop you off at the crossing going to Tagaytay & Paseo De Santa Rosa then ride a tricycle will cost you Php 20 per person. Thanks and Happy Trip :-)

Nuvali Koi Fish in Santa Rosa, Laguna

I'm a fan of koi fish, that's why I choose to dropped by here to see this fish in person. I got so excited, since I already saw some Facebook post of my friends.  In a Japanese believe that this creator is a sign of Love and Friendship. This area is a 4-hectare man made lake which is develop by Ayala Land and known for the best outdoor activities in Laguna. They have a lot of restaurant in the area and unique facilities all over the place. If you have never been to Nuvali, I recommend to schedule you trip on a weekday and about 1 hour away from Alabang in Muntinlupa and to Tagaytay City.

Seeing and Feeding Koi Fish in Nuvali Sta. Rosa Laguna

Activities in Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna! Feeding of Fish, Boating at the Lake, Wake Boarding, Eating and Walking Around the Park.

I had planned my itinerary well, just to visit this koi fish in Nuvali, Sta. Rosa Laguna. I love seeing those hundred of koi fish at one time and I think more than thousand of fish are there that turned the water orange. There are different varities of koi in the pond: colors mostly orange, red, gold, yellow, pink, black and white. A very nice place to visit and unwind during off weekend.These is my first stop before going to Tagaytay and Batangas on a weekend. They are operating from 8:00am to 6:00pm daily. Here's the rate of some of their activities: Fish Feeds - Php 15/pack, Taxi Boat Rental - Php 30/head (minimum of 6 person) & Bike Rental ( you can tour around the whole area) just for Php 60/hour. There are a lot of building is now being constructed and facilities is on going. Just enjoy the wind, feeding the koi fish, taking photos and fun fun fun for the whole day. How to Get to Nuvali in Sta Rosa is up next?

Weekend at Nuvali Lake in Sta Rosa Laguna

Just take a boat ride, fish feeding, overlooking view of the lake, mountain biking and walking around the area is the best idea in my mind before heading to Nuvali in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. This is the place to be, if your're looking for a relax place during the weekend and outside the busy life of Metro Manila. Nuvali is an hour away from Tagaytay City and the first large scale eco-friendly community of Ayala Land. I like this green-themed park with the view of Nuvali Lake and surrounded with tall trees and flowers.

How to Get to Sumaguing Cave in Sagada from the Town Proper

Going to Sumaguing Cave in Sagada, Mountain Province:

This cave has the largest cave connection in the Mountain Province! I love doing unusual activities in my life. Traveling around Sagada is so cheap and an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips and guide before going to Sumaguing Cave. Ask for a tourist guide during your trip and make sure to register at Municipal Hall of Sagada. From the town proper, you will take about 30-40 minutes walk towards suyo road and passing the Hanging Coffins of Sagada and Kapay-aw Rice Terraces. The road is accessible to all types of vehicle. Your tour guide is one who know the place and really take care of you, just make sure to listen and follow with the instruction. I recommend to bring your own flash light. 

Challenging Spelunking Experience in Sagada, Mountain Province

I survived Sumaguing Cave! Deep, Dark, Slippery and There's no turning back! This is the  words I actually in my mind before going down to the cave of Sumaguing! Yes, this is a must-do adventure activities in Mountain Province! Normally, it will takes about 3-4 hours inside the cave but I suggest to be early during your trip to avoid many crowds inside the cave. One of the popular indoor activity in Sagada, Mountain Province and most of the people spending their last activities during the trip. I've seen many old and new stalagmite and rock formation inside the cave. Ones inside the cave you will be amazed, challenging obstacle or passages, slippery walkway, rappelling, crawling, climbing and exciting view inside. You'll appreciate this beauty of the nature and this is one true adventure you don't want to miss it. The water is so very cold and clear. Our two guides are excellent that made us felt we will safely survive the adventure inside the cave. Note: bring waterproof camera if possible and bring water during your spelunking adventure. For me, trekking and spelunking is one of the new interest during my trip and quite a challenge for me and I like that you can actually saw stalagmite and touch them. Just perfect for a new beginner like me. 

Spelunking or Caving in Sumaguing Cave, Sagada Mountain Province

It takes about 30-40 minutes walk from the town proper of Sagada, heading to Suyo road where the Sumaguing Cave is located. Our Sagada experience continue, while walking around the cave I noticed some of big stalagmite and rock formation but first pay for their environmental fee cost you about Php 60 per head.  From the main entrance of the cave, you'll step from a man-made stairs going down then start with slippery and muddy walkway going down. It was so tiring but really worth it, our guide is so supportive and helpful about us on do 's and dont's inside the cave. This is our first time to do spelunking in the cave. You'll see some of rock formation images such as the turtle, the elephant, the pregnant queen and the king cause of the pregnant! hehehe! It will take 3-5 hours to finish caving, but nothing to be worried. Time passed so fast and you will notice that you almost stayed inside of the cave for such hours. 

Spelunking in Sagada is an experience that you will never forget and I certainly go back again, for sure Sagada memories will stay in my mind forever. Thanks for the people I met in Sagada.

Wandering the Hanging Coffins of Sagada in Mountain Province

After touring around the town center of Sagada. We decide to book our day tour package at SAGGAS one of my preferred tourist guide facilities & association. It was so great to see those old aged-coffins! Seeing the hanging coffins and doing the cave spelunking is a must-do experience and these was our priority activities that day. We dropped from the hanging coffins on our way to Sumaguing Cave and take photos of the coffins over mountain.The first question you will have is " How did they manage to put those coffins on the side of the mountain?" my answer is amazing & unique indeed.  It was a worth visiting the area with a stunning limestone formation at the cliff of mountain. I always look around, trees swaying to soft winds, echoes from birds, cold weather & great nature ambiance all over the place. 

I hope this thing from the past will be take care & preserve for the next generation of backpacker around the world. It was a good experience. Note: Good to visit during Summer time mid of March to April and all I can say is perfectly beautifully amazing place to be free for stress! :-) Happy Trip - Bisayang Manlalakbay around the Philippines. 

Walking Tour Around Sagada Town Proper

Yes, Sagada is a great backpacker place in the country! I love traveling the Philippines, I'm so excited to do this 3 days-trip around Banaue-Sagada-Baguio routes. Doing this top loading in the Sagada is more challenging & adventure trip because I meet some friends & try their special delicacies - lemon pie with a bit tangy, sweet and rough texture. This is a quiet little town in the north part of Mountain Province so don't expect a lot of amenities in accommodation around the area.  About 12 hours bus ride from Manila, you will capture this unique and nature's best attraction in Mountain Province but I find the food more quite expensive but the food is okay and fresh. By the way, the town center is where everything is like restaurants, bars, tourist center, municipal hall, souvenir shops or even internet shops along the roads of Sagada. I like the place and I'am planning of going back to Sagada with my family next year then stay here for 4 days :-) For your information: SAGGAS - Sagada Genuine Guide's Association Inc. is one of the most trusted tour guide in Sagada with a friendly staff and accommodating tour guide. They charged us with a minimal fee & package for six person in a group. Check out my next blog post about the Hanging Coffins & Sumaguing Cave Connection of Sagada in Mountain Province. 

How to Get to Sagada's Kapay-Aw Rice Terraces

Going to Sagada Rice Terraces or locally known Kapay-Aw Rice Terraces:

We took about 20-30 minutes travel from the town proper of Sagada. Just register to the Municipal Hall before going to the tourist attractions of Sagada, just pay for the environmental fee of Php 50.00 per person. Just take a habal-habal or walk around the rice terraces toward the Hanging Coffins & Sumaging Cave which is one of the famous attraction in Sagada. You'll passing through the famous Lemon Pie House & some souvenir shops within the road. Take a left turn towards the Hanging Coffins & I suggest to get a tourist guide during your trip about Php 100 per guide / person. The best month to travel Sagada in Mountain Province is from February to April. Trekking is the best adventure experience in Sagada.

Kapay-Aw Rice Terraces in Sagada, Mountain Province

I love Rice Terraces in Sagada in Mountain Province! I was amazed with this overlooking view of the rice terraces in Sagada.Yes, this is a dream come true to all backpacker and blogger like me and Sagada is place to be. A backpacker haven to explore, unwind, relax, appreciate the nature's beauty, learn their culture, experience adventure & love for nature. You can see this amazing view on the right side of the road when going to Sumaging Cave which is one of the best tourist spot in Sagada, Mountain Province. We meet this Australian solo backpacker - tourist along the way  and he asked me took photo with him. It was a foggy afternoon day hike & about 20-30 minutes walk from the town proper. The place is so relaxing, greenery atmosphere & cold weather. We continue our walking tour to the main entrance of Sumaging Cave, a lot of tourist & local that time so we decided to take a quick rest before going to the main cave. Thanks Sagada! Till We met again :-)

Iloilo's Dinagyang Festival 2014 Schedules: Visayas Festival

Yes! Book your flight ahead of time! Dinagyang 2014 Schedules in Iloilo City is the most colorful and loudest event for next year in honor of Sto. Nino same as with Cebu's Sinulog Festival 2014 & Kalibo's Ati-atihan Festival 2014. The event will be on January 24-26, 2014 which showcase different talent and creativity of ilonggos. Here's the schedule of Activities & Highlight.

January 24, 2014 (Friday)
- Fluvial Procession & mass
- Dinagyang Street Party
- Event  Street Party during the night

January 25, 2014 (Saturday)
- Mass for Kasadyahan
- Regional Cultural Compepition
- Dinagyang Sadsad

January 26, 2014 (Sunday) - Main Event
- Dinagyang Festival Mass 
- 2014 Iloilo Dinagyang Ati Contest
- Awarding Ceremonies & Fireworks Display

20th Cebu's Sinulog Festival 2014 Schedules: Visayas Festival

Pit Senyor or Viva Sr. Santo Nino!  Event will be started from January 13 until January 20. Sinulog 2014 Street Dance Competition Schedule will be on January 19, 2014 which one of the main highlight because of their grand float parade, dancers all over the streets of Cebu and unique costumes as they dance to the beat of the drums, trumpets, unique and native musical instrument. Sinulog 2014 in Cebu is a religious festival to the honor of Santo Nino, an image of child Jesus. This competition is usually held in the Cebu City Sports Complex, located at R.R Landon Street, Osmena Blvd. Sambag 1 Cebu City. The main grand parade started from 7:00am while some people are busy going to the Cebu Cathedral Church. Daghang Salamat Cebu. See you all next year's event of 20th Sinulog Festival 2014.

Bacolod's Masskara Festival 2013 Schedules: Visayas Festival

Join the 33rd Masskara 2013 Festival in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental on October 19 to 20, 2013 which is one of the main highlight of this festival because of the two-day street dancing competition at Bacolod City Plaza infront of . But the grand opening will be started on October 1, there will be 20 days of non-stop fun in the whole city, which only happening in the " City of Smiles".  This year's event of Masskara Festival 2013 is now under the new foundation - "Kasadya Bacolod Foundation, Inc." 

GenSan Tuna Festival 2013 Schedules: Mindanao Festival

Tuna Festival 2013 in General Santos City is one of the most-awaited festival in Mindanao because of their colorful float parade, street dancers and festive environment all over the city from September 5 to 9, 2013. This was the 15th Tuna Festival in the celebration of General Santos City's 45th Chapter Anniversary and tagged to be the "Tuna Capital of the Philippines" but also known to be the " Home of the Champions" like Manny Pacquiao, Nonito Donaire, Shamcey Supsup, Gerald Anderson, Melai Contiveros, Philip Nadela. XB Gensan, True Colors, Experience Kids and who's next to be the champion? Here's the Schedules & Activities for Tuna Festival 2013:

September 5, 2013

Flag Raising Ceremony - General Santos City Hall

Almusal Alay Sa Kapwa - Oval Gymnasium

Tuna Float Parade - Oval Grandstand

Grand Opening - Oval Grandstand

September 6, 2013

Brigada Teen Guwang - Oval Gymnasium

Globe Event - Oval Grandstand

September 7, 2013

Tunafest Duathlon 2013 - Queen Tuna Park

1st SJSA Tunafest Jetski Invitational Challenge - Queen Tuna Park

1st Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera Cup - Ngilay Shooting Range

Smart Concert - Oval Grandstand

September 8, 2013

Bombo Radyo Bancarera - Queen Tuna Park

Talent Showcase of the Generals - Oval Grand Stand

September 9, 2013

Tuna Pasiklaban Street Dancing  Competition - Oval Grandstand

Closing Ceremony - Oval Grandstand

Queen Tuna Park is located at Beach Area

Restaurants in Solaire Resort & Casino, Paranaque City

Inside this hotel-casino, you have many various of food to choose from Asian, Japanese, Chinese, American, Korean everything is here! They offer fresh and tasty cuisine, which is located at the ground floor of the hotel. We took a quick tour around the hotel lobby, restaurant and ballroom area of Solaire Resort and Casino. Did you know that they offers free shuttles around major malls in Metro like SM Moa, Megamall, Glorietta, SM Aura, Trinoma and many more listings to their website which was nice to get for their services. The staff and lobby guard is so nice and the place has offers a unique interior design, fresh flowers at the center of the restaurant. Here's the list of restaurants in Solaire Resort & Casino: Strip Steakhouse, Finestra, Red Lantern, Yakumi, Lucky Noddles, Fresh and also have food court for a budget conscious. We forgot to get our Solaire membership cards which offer free and no extra charges. Thanks to Ms Nina :-)

I See Solaire Resort & Casino: Adjacent to the SM MOA

I like the location of this newest hotel-resort & casino in Parañaque City. As per Ms Nina of the marketing department, this is owned by a businessman from Singapore who had a several hotel in different part of Asia. Since a lot of Filipinos likes to gamble, this is a way to make thing legal. This hotel-casino will boost and become the biggest entertainment city in the country. They have a nice interior and unique architectural design all over the area, I saw the Belle Grande Casino stairway going to their VIP Lounge area. They also have the casino boutique, food court and entertainment area for those who love to enjoy music. I can't wait for it to be done like their pool and garden, so I can come again and experience everything.

San Miguel Beer Oktoberfest 2013 Schedules

This is it! Happy Beer Day! SMB Oktoberfest 2013 Schedule is finally here! The event will be on September 14, 2013 at Circuit Makati, Old Sta. Ana Race Track, J. P Rizal Street, Makati City. Gate Opens at 5:00pm.   San Miguel Beer Oktoberfest Beer Festival 2013 is the most famous event of the year and great beer festival in the country. This year's event is most the loudest, biggest, newest gimmicks and largest gathering of Filipino talent which is most awaited event over the year and there will more surprises coming up. So, just bookmark this page and update you as soon as possible time with a special performance of your favorite bands, athlete, singers and beer endorser as well. SMB Oktoberfest 2013 Ticket Price: All Access - Php 150.00 & General Admission - Php 50.00, there will be a Php 12.00 beer/cup.

Guest Band & Performances by: Pepe Smith, Apl De Ap, Ely Buendia, Slapshock, Wilabaliw, Rocksteddy, Brownman Revival, Mayonaise, Even, Light of Luna,  Efren Bata Reyes, Django Bustamante, Sam Pinto & many more.

For ticket & reservation contact: Ms. Rona D. Beano - 853-7258 or 0916-6446778 or Myla Paulino - 0916-2532241. See you guys :-) Please check out event map on How to Get to SMB Oktoberfest Beer Festival 2013. See below! 

 

The Newest & Luxury Mall of SM Aura Premier in Taguig City

SM Aura Premier is one of the best & luxury mall in the country today because of high class interior design & architecture which targeting the upper class and first SM Mall in Taguig City. During my visit to this mall, I noticed that they have a high ceiling, good ambiance and a modernized shop all around the mall. From the outside of this mall, I like the curve shape architecture and luxury window glass building. As per mall administrator, this supermall which will be part of the Bonifacio Civic Center, where some big events, parties and concerts will happen. This is definitely be a talk of the town. 

Sky Park Garden at SM Aura Premier, The Fort in Taguig

It was a Sunday Afternoon day off with my friend "Sally" at SM Aura Premier, located in front of Market Market which is one of the newest and luxury mall in the country. We proceed to the Sky Park Garden, rooftop located at the 4th floor. The Sky Park Garden is similar from the Sky Garden in SM North Edsa, Quezon City. The interior design and garden landscape is more classy, modern & better than Serendra, Bonifacio High Street & Market Market both in Global City, Taguig. As part of the opening of this mall, traffic jams greeted consumers, mall goers & employees everyday & really hard road access in both side of the mall but the area is more accessible to everyone. They offers a wide landscaped open gardens, unique water fountains, over looking condominiums, buildings & modern architecture design at the side. 

At this area of the Sky Park, they will features their own Convention Center named The Aura Pavillion which cater big events, parties & concerts. Well, SM Aura Premier have a great view from the top. 

My Travel Map From Banaue - Bontoc - Sagada

Bench Body Fashion Show 2013 - Philippine Fashion Week Holiday Collection

Bench Body Fashion Show 2013 for Philippine Fashion Week Holiday Collection 2013. Paolo Roldan walked together with other models and celebrities like Jennylyn Mercado, Borgy Manotoc, Philippine Volcanoes, the twins Anthony and David and other local and foreign models. The highlight of the night was the international model Paolo Roldan, a Filipino-Canadian which his billboards at the Guadalupe-Makati Bridge.They occupy function hall 3 & 4 of SMX Convention Center, Pasay City is one of the venue for Philippine Fashion Week 2013. I like the technical effects, graphics and sound technology of the fashion show plus the video projected on the screen make the show more dramatic, fancy and cool. The opening act was so cool - featuring dancers swinging and bending their bodies to the beat of music and patterns projected on screen. The event was too fun and creative, which been off around 10:00pm. We all enjoyed watching the show and until next time for Bench Fashion Show at Araneta Coliseum which big star is gathering every year. 

Meet & Greet with Paolo Roldan during Bench Fashion Show 2013

Paolo Roldan in Manila, Philippines. We got a chance to meet and greet personally with Paolo Roldan , a Filipino-Canadian model as a newest brand ambassador of Bench Body. Did you know that this model posed naked for Givenchy on the cover of Vogue Paris (June 2010). He is very kind man, fluent in English and always smile to his fans. This was our first time to meet this guy, so we decided to take more photos including some of the models and guest like Champ Pio of Hale, BB Gandang Hari, Lauren Uy, Philippine Volcanoes Team, Semerald Twins (Anthony & David), and many more. I know that Bench Body would all proud of it and confidently compete with other international or imported brands nowadays. So seeing Bench Body models during the Philippine Fashion Week 2013 was truly amazing and awesome.

Philippine Fashion Week Holiday 2013 - SM Mall of Asia

As part of our get together during the Phlippine Fashion Week last May 26, 2013 with Aiza, Sally & Eds. The venue for this year's fashion event held at SMX Convention Center, Pasay City beside SM MOA Arena It's become world class experience seeing different design & fabric made by our local designer, fashion and brand collection which provide to have alternative for comfy clothes and footwear as well. It was the last day of the event which started last May 22, 2013, we just had a fun and memorable experience that night. We saw a lot of fashionista, trend maker and artist during that time. That time we had a bench invites for Paolo Roldan in bench body collection. For this year's event of Philippine Fashion Week Holiday Collection 2013 is giving us some tips and showcase filipino talents, walk and a passion dynamic both local and international models. Hopefully that this won't be the last fashion show I attend, looking forward for more exciting events and activities this year. 

Sagada Lemon Pie House in Mountain Province

Jane and I, decided to try out some restaurant in the area. We checked our map and list of tourist attraction in Sagada which I printed before the day of our trip from Banaue -Bontoc - Sagada. So, I listed down this restaurant and cafe as part of our itinerary. Where to eat in Sagada? Well I was confident enough to recommend you this restaurant & cafe which is known to be the best lemon pie in Sagada. I was previously reading about the good comments and reviews of Sagada Lemon Pie House. We ordered three slices of lemon pie and two brewed coffee. It is a wonderful place to dine, relax, eat and enjoy your wooden furniture over a cup of coffee with you. As per our guide, the abundance of lemons in Sagada pushed through to create a perfect dessert during a trip in Sagada. Over the years of experimenting the perfect taste of lemon pie until the perfect blend of tangy and sweet are made. I admit that Sagada is a top tourist destination in the north and is flocked both local and foreign tourist. 

The Famous Echo Valley in Sagada Mountain Province

We took about 20-30 minutes walking time at the center of town proper. You will find yourself here a very nice scenery on a ledge fronting many trees, wild flowers, mountains and limestone formation. Why is that they named Echo Valley? Because echoes can be heard in the valley if you shout loud enough to hear in other part of the mountain. As first time traveler in Sagada, you must know and make a research about the top tourist attraction of the place you want to visit. There are a lot of bloggers, travelers and foreign tourist wanted to go to Sagada in Mountain Province because of a relaxing ambiance over the big trees and mountains but the hospitality and caring of people in Sagada. Did you know that Sagada has a zero crime rates. A Sagada experience getaway will not be complete without going to the Echo Valley and seeing the famous Hanging Coffins which is even only in the Philippines. Next part of our itinerary was a trip to Kapay-aw Rice Terraces ,Sumaguing Cave and Touring Around the Town.

Heading to Echo Valley of Sagada in Mountain Province

Helloooo Echo Valley of Sagada. It's my first time here and I am so glad to step my foot in the middle of the mountains and huge pine trees. This area is the most popular tourist destination in Sagada and it become one of my favorite spot. Upon arrival to Echo Valley or " Ecological Valley of Sagada", I tried to shoot loud and to see if the area will create an echo of my voice. So, oo nga pwede narin kahit hindi masayadong nag-babounch back ang echo. Moving forward to our trip, you will find here the Hanging Coffins of Sagada which you shouldn't miss because it will take only a few steps down hill. We meet this students from Dubai, United Arab Emirates which I guess this was part of their ecological tour in the country. I saw many limestone rock formation, wild blooming flowers and birds. It was a cold afternoon and you must try out their new attraction, the rock-climbing because it looks a lot of fun and adrenaline rush. A lot of scenery around are here, the sound of birds and other endangered wild animals like butterflies, eagle and parrot. Please be take care in walking around the stiff parts of the mountain and rock formation limestone. The trail going down can get slippery when its rain, good thing because we are luckily during the  weather is in good condition. Always be careful with this trail down to Hanging Coffins. Tip: Better to have a guide to take you in case of emergency. Cost you about Php 200-400 pesos per group.