Philippines Travel

Backpacking : Sebaste Antique

2010-01-21T16:05:00.000+08:00

The Place

Sebaste Antique... Honestly I did'nt know why I went there in the first place. It might be the call of adventure, the willingness to travel, or just the urge to explore places. Whatever it was I found myself once again backpacking and walking through an unfamiliar mountain.

Full of lush vegetations and wild animals ( I did't have the stamina to go in deeper to see one), this is not a place for the weak of heart. Yeah it might not be a tourist attraction, but it is an adventurers spirit that drove me to walk up and down this mountain for a continous 7.5 hours hike ( I know it's mideocre hours ). I tried my hardest and emerged triumphant.

( The photo was taken going down from the mountain where we have been. The shot was taken atop another small mountain. )

( This is the front view from the above photo. We are supposed to go back to where the sea begins. I had no idea it was that far - and yes I made it back alive - )

Things I discovered

Here are a few list of things I discovered along the way. To and from my journey, these are my mental notes.

*30 mins walk.

-I can walk that long no sweat.

*1 hour through the walk
-Farmlands are really full of mud and I'm really glad I had worn shorts. But next time find a good pair of footwear to wear for the feet.

*2 hours have passed ( still walking )
-We really should've really brought some water.
-hmmm... maybe not bringing water is not a bad idea after all. I cant seem to carry even my clothes anymore.

*3 hours suffering in thirst
- Mountain streams are clean after all. Yey!!!
- I hope we will pass another stream soon.
- Powdery bamboo looking plants are not ideal for holding. ( they have thousands of mini spines that hurt - and its hard to remove, loss of use of arms for balance is bad )

*4 hours
- What the hell am I doing?
- I never knew Mountain rocks are sharp.
- finally going back... Sweet!!!

*5 hours
- I thought we're going back? how come we're still climbing?
- Oh crap! where's my shirt?

*6 Hours
- Downward is slippery after a few drops of rain.
- Oh S**t! was that a snake that passed in front of me?!
- Falling down is fun...
- Cool View

*7 hours
- Keep walking Feet!!!
- Fast Food will certainly taste better every time after this.
- Almost there!!!
- Concrete floor or wood is very comfy for rest after. :-)

Overall

Overall I learned that Hiking through a steep and dense forest is pretty hard but it is something that can change a persons perspective. To push oneself to the limits, discover new things, appreciate life more and live!

Cultural Differences of the Philippines

2009-12-03T22:30:00.002+08:00

Cultural Differences of the Philippines from Other Parts of Asia that Travelers Should Know

Because the Philippines isn’t widely known as a tourist destination yet, finding information about cultural differences and general etiquette may not be as easy as finding information about more popular places in Asia. For instance, in China and Japan the China River Cruise and the attractions of Tokyo are more popular than ever. Whether you are familiar with the etiquette and differences of Asia or not, knowing the specific differences of the Philippines can help make your trip be a much more pleasant and less stressful experience.

Meetings and Greetings

Although some other Asian countries prefer to avoid shaking hands and bow their heads instead, Filipinos usually shake hands with a warm smile. Handshakes shouldn’t be too firm but more friendly. Like other Asian countries, much respect should be paid to elders so you should greet the elderly first. Instead of first names, you should always use academic or professional titles before their surname and you may be granted permission to use the person’s first name afterward. Hugs and kisses are usually only exchanged by female friends who know each other well. Handshakes should be given again when saying goodbye.

Dining

Instead of the popular chopsticks that are often associated with Asian countries, a fork and spoon are used during meals. But you may have to use the fork and spoon in a way that you may not be used to. Instead of piercing the food with your fork and bringing it to your mouth, you should hold the fork in your left hand and use it to transfer food into your spoon on the other hand. Although knives are sometimes used, it’s not uncommon to use your fork and spoon to help cut up or break apart food. Also, don’t be surprised if many meals are self-serve or buffet style, especially in someone’s home. And although you might be used to cleaning your plate in western cultures, it’s better to leave a little food behind on your plate at the end of your meal, especially if you are eating at someone’s house since it’s a tells others that you’ve had enough food to eat. Also at the end of the meal, it’s normal to make conversation and really take your time socializing with the other guests instead of wanting to leave right after you finish the meal. It would be a good idea to thank the host before you leave and send a thank you card afterwards for the meal. At many restaurants, it’s normal for Filipino waiters to only refill drinks and bring the bill after taking and bringing orders. Many may not come back to ask if you need anything else but you can get their attention and they would be happy to help you then.

If traveling with a significant other, it might be wise to keep the public affection more restrained since it might be considered rude and in bad taste to kiss and hug in front of others. Also, shouting and aggressive behavior is not accepted like other busy cities in Asia so it’s better for exchanges in the Philippines to be more private and quiet.

One important similarity to keep in mind is that like many other Asian cultures, Filipinos value a large family unit and it is present in their daily lives.

Concepcion Sand Bar

2009-06-02T16:35:00.003+08:00

Back Packing Philippines - Concepcion Sand Bar

It has been quite a long time since I have posted anything here. Being Busy with life and backpacking Philippines travel did not leave me enough time to post here anymore. But luckily the busy bee has gone of somewhere else.

This is one of the sandbars I've visited so far. I never thought we would have one near home.

(a view to behold in sunshine)

Place

It is located 30 min. offshore of mainland Concepcion, Iloilo, Philippines. It is a private Island, so it is a very quiet place. I suggest the company of friends and a bonfire gathering at night would make it more fun ( alcohol helps... plenty... lol ).

A white long stretch of sand and a calming air, mixed with clear sea water makes it a perfect adventure get away. And I will really stress on the "adventure" part.

Getting there

A piece of advice first. before planning any trip to the Island having a contact for their tourism department would be best. Since there are some strict issues and policies now being implemented by their local government.

After Asking ( nicely of course ) that you would like to travel to the sandbar island. These nice people would point you in the right direction to where the small boat going to the island is. And then wala, you are where you want to go.

I'll be sharing with you more backpacking tales since I've accumulated quite a few during the time I've been idle.

Backpacking : Dalutan Island

2008-10-31T15:00:00.007+08:00

Island Visit

This is yet again another island in the island Province of Biliran (and I did not even get to visit all of the islands yet). Not speaking ill of the island but this is just one of the more ordinary islands that I've visited. It doesn't have the magnificent view the other islands offer but it is still worth the adventure (you'll know why soon enough starting with the first picture).

(yes it is as it seems that the boat below us can't be seen. Its a small boat to journey more than a kilometer at sea. - great isn't it?)

The Prelude

Well this day started like any other day -boring-. Imagine a Life without television, cable, or satellite (scary i know), and the best part of all is that its a none working day. Imagine 18 hours with nothing to do and nobody in the mood to talk. So whats the best solution? DO SOMETHING! :-) Being stuck in an island is a fun way of discovering nature or you could just visit a friends house and chomp away at any food you can find. Which in this case what I did.

We went to Almeria. A small town next to where we stayed. It just took a couple of miles and about 30 minutes of travel to get there. Also in this place you can find natural hot springs and a view of a small scale rice terraces. It would be a beautiful view in a summers sunset since it would all go brown with the setting sun and the cool breeze of fresh mountain air . But alas this is another undocumented episode of my journey.

The Get Away

( small cottage on a small island but hey it has fresh food )

After a few chats on the roadside and after being given quite a few freshly caught squids and fishes. My mates decided to go to a nearby island. Just a few miles offshore with a boat they own. Nothing fancy but it really seemed small for me ( but hey, I'm alive after ).

We enjoyed scenic route close to the ocean ( literally ). You could get wet by the splashes made by he boat against the ocean. It is advisable to wrap anything electronic on a plastic bag to protect it. The Island itself is a great place to relax in although its nothing really special. But it sure beats a walk in the park after a heart racing boat experience.

Philippine Travel - Higatangan Island

2008-08-29T08:31:00.004+08:00

Higatangan Island of Biliran - Philippine Destinations

whats on the island?

Higatangan is an island of Biliran Leyte in the Philippines. Much like Sambawan island in the previous post. But what exactly makes them different?. Well Higatangan is an inhabited island because primarily it is a bigger island than sambawan and people where living there for a long time even during the time of the Spanish colonization of the Philippines as evidenced by the old houses you will see around there. I know we are not really interested in houses, and why go there?.

Because Higatangan is famous for its shifting sandbar and rock formations. Yes folks it is shifting! How cool is that?! It is a pretty much white sand stretch with an "L" slight angle to the left most of the months of the year except when the tides change and the sandbar shifts to the right. It's a perfect place for backpacking, just light up a fire on the stretch and put up camp. Tell stories through the night. The stars are so vibrant at night (no city lights to block the shine), plus its a really romantic walk along the stretch as many luminescent fish would light up the waters and waves. A really romantic experience with nature. ( no picture can describe this experience)

(the path to the rock formations)

Travel tips

Riding a boat to the island is of course the most obvious way to get there but beware because the boat only goes to the island once a day. If you plan to go there you should be on time ( unless of course you know someone who has a boat). Before arriving at the shifting sandbar port I suggest you enjoy the view of the pristine clear waters and the vibrant sea life that can easily be spotted as you travel across the waters.

After arriving is usually the time to rest right?... wrong! in this island I suggest you go to where you can leave your things and start exploring. Because there will be so many places to go and so little time to do it. I also suggest that you travel on foot, take in the view, have a few swim, and relax and enjoy the nature trail. There are a lot of wild plants, flowering ones and the more important fruit bearing ones that is just free for the picking. And more importantly the view of nature grown gardens is such amazing.

(amidst the clear water, rock bed coral and bonsai plants overhead)

Conclusion

Well actually in truth this is just half of the story once you get there aside from fresh meals and the occasional scary local ghost stories and the romantic night mentioned earlier. The clear attraction is the adventure and mystery that this place offers. You'll never be sure what adventure to expect from such untouched and natural place.

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Philippine Travel - Sambawan Island

2008-07-27T10:42:00.006+08:00

SAMBAWAN ISLAND - Philippines Destinations

Sorry for the little delays in the post. I've been busy lately. Anyway I just want to share this old adventure I had back in the province of Biliran where I stayed for a couple of months. Expect more stories to come from this little island and the little islands it has and the islands of their little islands. Yes I know that seems plenty but that is what makes this place amazing. :)

I have to apologize for the poor quality of the pictures though. I wasn't really the type to take pictures nor did I know I would be one day sharing it with you.

The First is SAMBAWAN ISLAND. It is a small island of Maripipi which ironically is also an island of Biliran island. ( its long i know )

( view from the hill on sambawan overloking maripipi )

THE ISLAND

Its a very small island but has crystal clear waters and a small white sand stretch of beach. The water is just full of life so be careful not to get in too deep because of the sea urchins ( always wondered how they would taste ) from this view you could see that its mainly consist of grass so be sure to bring a shade. The Other side is a rocky cliff overlooking a vast coral reef which I wished to have at least seen. ( we didn't have funds for a scuba gear nor did we know how to operate one LOL)

It was a perfect place to have fun like we did or if you just wish to have some peace and quiet. (Personally being on an island is too quiet) Relaxing and adventurous is the theme of the island for me. And aside from the experience the view is just breathtaking. I got acquainted with nemo (clown fish) near the shore where I bathed. As such an evidence that there are more to see around the island as well.

(we won!!! - picture taken from the beach side)

The ADVENTURE and the TRAVEL

Whilst on the island we did a lot of things cooking food is one of them (they did all the work) which was fresh fish bought earlier from the market and pork and a whole lot of natural tasty treats cooked local style - YUMMY!- which I'm proud to say vary from region to region in the Philippines. Meaning there are a lot of exotic local foods to try and the only exchange is a small amount of money and a whole lot of good personality so they'll make them for you. Kind of like playing sims castaway and you yourself is the sim.

The gallon we are holding on the picture is actually bahalina a form of coconut wine kinda like the ones captain jack sparrow used when he was stuck on the island. Yes we also had some booties like captain jack did. Whats the point on being in an island anyway without them? :) But it is sort of special in the regions in the Philippines where the people speak the native language called "bisaya". This is a brief tutorial why.

BAHALINA - an aged Tuba (coconut wine) older than the usual found in most parts in the country, fermented for about 6 months to years. I'm not familiar with the process itself but the usual outcome is that tuba, if fermented will become natural vinegar. But they found a way to keep it as wine. The tastiest bahalina I've ever tried was found in bohol.
TUBA - raw coconut wine and if aged turns to natural vinegar. Just an FYI - in iloilo you can find the best natural mix of vinegar perfect for a whole lot of things especially oysters.

So theres the little explanation.

Early in the morning we set out on that trip, from the town of Naval to the town of Kawayan. the road isn't quite as pleasant but it is an adventure in itself. the preferred mode of transport would have to be either a bus (not recommended) or a motorcycle which is the adventure part of the journey. But if you are a tourist and don't know anyone then I suggest you hire a boat from Naval directly to the island. Then from their we traveled on a small boat to the island. Note that the open sea has waves and the front part of the boat was actually going through the waves pointing towards the sea floor at times (only about 30 degrees down) and the waves may be higher than the part you are sitting at. Oh yeah! that was fun! feeling the water splash -side note put all electronics on a plastic and seal - feeling the breeze and open sea and sunlight. well there you have it. luckily I got to know some great people which took me on all of this adventures (which I will post soon)

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Philippines Travel : Carles

2008-06-14T20:51:00.006+08:00

(view from the place we rested and spent the night)

(the sunset, viewed from a cottage)

Carles is a province located in the north eastern part of Iloilo. Quite far from the city, a truly remarkable yet undeveloped place which shows so much potential. The trip takes about three and a half hours from the city to where I was heading. I went to a small resort there owned by a friend. And the trip itself would prove interesting since it would be my first time to take that route. The trip goes through a coastal view and a chance to see the islands that I didn't even know where their see able from the mainland. Curiosity and interest stirs as i hear stories of the legends & myths of the locals about how the islands came to be and how they were named.

And after the funny questions and stories, At last we've reached our destination the Alvarez resort. Although intended for a boring and simple Rest & Relaxation turned out to be fun. Starting with a Quick visit to the market. I thought the sting rays and sharks ( none endangered specie of course) were pretty interesting things to buy, unfortunately none of us knows how to cook them :(. So we ended up with the sea weeds ( edible ones ), shrimps, and squids. Destined for a side dish for the brandy which was later to come.

(Looking for treasures before we left (day break))

After resting, lunch, and a few bottles of brandy we decided to take a swim. It was really interesting since their were swarms of jellyfishes all over. It was kinda fun playing tag with them. Although they were not the usual dangerous kinds. Too bad I can't bring the camera close enough for a picture of them. Hope we could've had a short snorkeling trip but unfortunately we didn't know were to rent a boat nor do we have a gear. But all in all it was the release from the hectic city life i wanted. Tomorrows yet an energized day to face new challenges.

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Philippines Travel : Antique II

2008-04-27T12:06:00.003+08:00

Philippines Travel : Antique II

The 3rd Day of the Vacation was indeed invigorating and refreshing. Nothing beats a good view of Nature and being a top a mountain is one way of doing that. ( although we only climb a few hundred feet high mountain). Finally the Third day of the journey, well a Philippines Vacation is one surely to remember but a local like me getting to discover places not even heard of is thrill and not to mention the opportunity to see beautiful places and things and definitely interesting people.

The First leg of the journey of course was to get to the foot of the mountain. Since I'm staying quite far from one it was a relief to have a ride available. We drove off miles away into places where I didn't even think possible that a road having steep angles could be driven through. But personally and thankfully I have faith in my friends driving skills. After a few hours we've reached our destination ( well almost ). we have to walk about half a mile to get to the bottom of the mountain first. Going there was really quite tiring. But discovering the determination in ones self was worth the hardship. feeling the grass, the wind and being one with nature is just as fulfilling in the end. ( here's a video i took )

After climbing Up it was time to start the journey. We we're there to hunt for wild animals of course to experience living in the wild. But really we just want something to eat after a long walk through thick vegetation.( But unfortunately we didn't find any wild boars or that sort). We followed the streams to lead us. Scientifically where there is water there is life and the best chance for a person to find wild animals is near a stream. life revolves around water so i guess its a safe bet. We took a bath there to freshen up and i saw beautiful little insects and trees bearing fruits and flowers I've never even seen before!!! even though personally I was barely breathing from walking, climbing, and from flexing my muscles, it was worth it.

(mini falls along the stream)

But I have a chance to reconsider after climbing back up, just when I thought we we're already on top we just kept climbing. It was just so tiring that I didn't even feel hunger and it was already way past lunch. fortunately there where wild fruits along the way. Fresh guavas, bananas and a papaya would ultimately quench the hunger. But after we made it and as I look back through what we've done I realized it was definitely what I was looking for. ( Aside from the Rum and the Tuba (coconut wine) that followed after).

Philippines Travel - Antique

2008-04-20T14:18:00.004+08:00

Intentions:

Hi There to everyone :) first of all thanks for visiting this blog. This blog was created to impart to you some of the sights and amazing views of some of the uncharted parts of the Philippines unknown to most people. And I hope to discover many more other places but... with 7,107 islands and a life to live i guess its a feat I can only hope to achieve. This was also created to give credit to the friends I've made along the way, the people who accompanied me on my journey which is now much a part of my life than just memories for i learned a lot with every person, and lastly for the places I've visited that gave me inspiration, a new view of the world, and old fashioned good time. And besides this is a great way to practice my communication skills and SEO skills :)

Philippines Travel - Antique

After gaining an opportunity for a vacation ( which was after a very long time ) I went to the countryside for a good R & R at an old friends new home to keep my promise to visit them there. Antique was the name of the place in a little town called Bugasong. It was a new view which I welcomed quite enthusiastically after being cramped up for so long. And The first order of business shortly after arriving there was going for a swim, at first I thought it was the beach or something but they took me to a mountain resort (unfortunately i only took pictures along the way and can't show you the pool) which the waters used are of course directly from mountain springs. The water was cool and clean even drinkable and quite refreshing after a long summers day travel. We went together with some of his wife's family member and had a rather funny time with jokes. I was acquainted with the local flora, either rare type of wild orchid or bush.

But what i really enjoyed aside from the company was the beautiful view of nature ( this picture on the left was taken on our way to the mountains and the one on the right was taken on our way home ). The skyline was crisp blue and the shades was a refreshing retreat from the summers sun. After the bath and the Quick tour of the surroundings ( I didn't get to see the monkeys though) It was time to go home and alas an end to my days vacation. But fortunately not an end to my vacation. A 3 day vacation which hopefully I can get it up on the post soon.

( Yes all of this are Photographed by ME and I've really been there)