Cantabon Cave - Siquijor

One of the thrilling adventures for tourist that you would also love to try in Siquijor is caving. Let us have a crash course for caving first. They say that caving is a science of exploring the cave for fun. Caving sometimes called spelunking in USA and Canada. Yes, this may sounds fun and beautiful, right? However, a first timer like me felt excitement and fear in one when I had my chance to explore Cantabon Cave in Siquijor.

I think, if you are brave enough and with high stamina prepared then you will surely survive walking through inside the 1 kilometer Cantabon Cave. In my experience, I decided not to reach the endpoint of the cave. Why? Like I mentioned, I had mix emotions at that time. As far as I can remember, it was raining and my imagination of bad events was activated though we had 2 tour guides.  Imagine yourself getting inside a small hole which asks you to walk shrinking yourself then an earthquake hits that cave, what do you think will happen? It’s like burying you alive, right? Well, that was one of the weird imaginations I had. Good thing, it didn’t happen.

Inside, you can touch the rough and edgy stones and probably some of them are stalagmites I just didn’t notice it very well because I don’t have head lamp or flashlight on that adventure. This probably adds the fear I felt in going through to what they call tunnel before the exit point. Well, my stay inside the Cantabon Cave was memorable though. So, if you ask me I’d still recommend that you try caving in the future. In fact, I’d love to be with you when you do for I promised to myself that I won’t be afraid anymore as long as we got complete gears in hand.

Therefore, safety first is the key to feel real thrill and happiness in every travel and adventure that we will get involve with.

Sorry Folks, poor picture here. I am just only using my 2.0 MP phone camera.

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Igutan Cave - Talisay City Cebu

One of the progressive cities in Cebu is Talisay City. It is no wonder that a lot of beautiful places hidden inside the city’s bosom. One of those is Igutan Cave. Now, if you’re like me who never thought that there is a hidden beauty of Igutan Cave in Talisay then you’d love to visit it as soon as possible. Well, if you’re from Mactan you need to travel at least 30 to 40 minutes via Cebu South Coastal Road. At least, you can avoid the heavy traffic but if you like you can still take the regular route by riding public utility vehicles or jeepneys.

You just need to bring some common safety tools like headlamp or flashlight so you’ll haveclearer vision as you get through those cranny pathways inside the cave. Yes, you need toget through of those to reach the falls inside. I even had bad feelings during our walk insidebecause I remembered the recent earthquake hit in Cebu City at that time. However, I can’t deny that when we reached the falls I enjoyed the water falling just like a shower in our bathroom. In fact, I even act like swimming in a pool without water. Lol! Well, if we can fly like superman without even bothering going up in the sky then I think it is cool having that swimming act too. Ehehehehe.

This adventure doesn’t really need much money so everyone can go there and enjoy too. If you need more information regarding the expenses just hit me a message below in my comment box. I would be glad to answer those inquiries.

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Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor

They say, all “first time” is memorable like first kiss, first bf/gf and many other first encounter of anything in life. Hmmmp. That’s probably true because I can’t forget my first travel as spectator of other province in Philippines and first time to see real waterfalls. Ah! Yes, It was the Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor. I can still remember that it was holy week when I visited Siquijor. We tour around the province’s tourist spots by renting a multicab.

One of the reasons that I visited Siquijor is because I got curious of Siquijor’s mystery. We know that it is much known about witchcraft or mystery things that ordinary people can’t comprehend. Well, when I got there it looks like it was just rumors which are spread to many that leave negative impact to outsiders. Why? It is because the people in Siquijor are nice and kind. So, we really need to examine carefully of the things we believe before we judge.

The weather during my visit was not really good so I just took some beautiful pictures of the nature and pose a little with beautiful backgrounds behind me. I’d say it was not really long and adventurous trip but I felt satisfaction of that trip. That’s probably the time when my heart opened and passion of traveling started. Right after that, I already took several travel schedules. In fact, my friends in the office already tease me that I am “Doro” the male version of “Dora the explorer”.Lol! It makes me smile because I have the opportunity to see the real beauty of God’s creation in my country Philippines and share it with them and to everybody.

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Guimaras Island and The Natural Wonders

The government officials of Guimaras invited tourists to discover Guimaras Island and the natural wonders that surround the province. So,United Backpackers did not miss the chance.  We went there and docked to Guimaras land at 8 oclock in the morning. Our visit in Guimaras was limited but we still manage to see the beauty of Guimarasnon nest. Well, the place didn’t meet the standard beauty that I was expecting instead it exceeded to my expectation. 

At the pier, you will automatically ushered by many dispatchers. Of course, we always want safety first so we decided to get information from their official tourist assistance center. Once we had the information, we then hired a tricycle to bring us to their beautiful places that every Filipino should see when they are in Guimaras Island. We got a tour and along the way, I enjoyed and amazed by the extraordinary number of mangoes I saw. They look so delicious to me. They also have an amazing fish cage where helps anyone to have a peaceful mind just by seeing those healthy fishes.  Actually, this is one of their local government programs that help protects marine species and educate people about their importance including visitors.

Those trips were quite good in making our stomach empty so I had 3 Cups of rice at their clean and affordable restaurant. It is definitely one of the memorable things in my Guimaras Island expedition.  We didn’t stay longer for we need to go back to Bacolod for a new destination of our series of trips in Visayas region.

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The Ruins – Talisay City Negros Occidental

Bacolod is being known as the city of smile. This label makes me think that it's probably the reason why tourists keep coming back and gets pleasure even to those called "The Ruins" in Talisay City, Negros Occidental. Yes, it's called ruins but it's not totally ruined for there are still remnants after it was burnt. The mansion of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson stands still after the fire consumed the structure. In fact, if you don't know about “The ruins” and seen it only in pictures; you might think they just started building it. 

Well, when I visited there, I’ve witnessed how the present generation of Lacson maintains the old structure to make it stay beautiful. We visited the place at night after a long trip from other neighboring provinces. In fact, it’s little scary to be there at night. Well, I just got so imaginative mind at that time. This is the result of keep thinking about spirits. I didn’t mean to but it’s our normal speculation to places like that. Let me remind you guys, this is not a horror story. Lol! In fact, we can consider this a love story if you hear the tourist guide telling their visitors that it was built for the first wife of Don Mariano. It is probably his way of showing his great love for Maria Braga –his first wife. 

Now, how to get there? Well, there are at least 3 options to reach “The Ruins”. The United Backpackers chose to hire a tricycle to reach the place as soon as possible for it was too late when we reached Talisay City. Also, it’s a way too cool to pay for cheaper fare, right? 

Drop me a message below to get details on visiting comfortably the Ruins in Talisay City, Negros Occidental.

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Bugtong Bato Falls – Tibiao Antique

“Let it falls!” Lol! I’m just kidding. Today, we’ll bring you to the top and fall in love to the Bugtong Bato Falls in Tibiao Antique. No panting as you read through. Ehehehe. You will probably love this side trip at Bugtong Bato Falls. Take note, that if there is Seven Wonders of the World, Bugtong Bato Falls has seven falls (7 levels) also. We can be proud of this too for it can be only in the Philippines. Lol! The water from this falls is actually going to Tibiao River, if you remember it’s the river where I had my first encounter of white water kayaking. 

So, if you like to witness and experience the thrill, you can just tell the drivers in Tibiao Antique that you want to go to Bugtong Bato Falls which kalye Importante is definitely your stop over. The drivers are familiar to this place so there is no reason to worry of getting lost. If you’re able to reach the seventh level of the falls, you are definitely one of the strongest visitors of the place. Unlike our group which only survived till 3^rd level of the falls. Yes, we weren’t maybe wearing our “fighting spirit” at that time to go till 7^th level but we believe it was the best decision for our travel objective is to enjoy and never compromise safety during our adventure ;). 

Along the way, you will pass through the “all bamboo bridge”, rice terraces and those huge live rocks. Of course, we enjoyed also taking bath with the soothing water falling from above, hehehe. To be in that place is like I traveled to my childhood days and enjoyed climbing while having fun with the waters like a kid. However, the tiredness going up reminds me of the reality that I am no longer young and no longer own those strong bones. Lol! 

So guys, enjoy Bugtong Bato Falls and be safe. Also, I’m available for inquiries. 

jalda nyeoo sip sio! (Korean’s Bon Voyage )

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Puka Beach - Boracay Island

I know for sure a lot of people like to visit Boracay Island of the Philippines - the island which sometimes labeled as paradise. Probably, the main reasons are their white sand and the beautiful faces they see roaming around the Island. Yes, of course those sexy celebrities. Lol! Well, I was one of them who dream to visit Boracay because of those reasons. I’m just being real, here. Lol!

As part of United Backpackers series of trips, I got the chance to visit and experience the white sand beaches of Boracay. Right straight from Antique, we were brought by the plane to Caticlan Airport. From the airport, we traveled by boat to Boracay Island. We roam around the vicinity of Boracay’s 3 stations. However, we chose to stop by for relaxation at Puka beach. This is because we’ve heard that only few know the place. So, we reached it by tricycle and stayed at Puka beach like we own the place. Hehehe. Puka beach is in the northern part of Boracay Island of Aklan province. I am not sure why they call it Puka beach but I think it’s probably because of the Puka shells you can find in the place –just being logical.

The United Backpackers really had fun at that time. Our short stay on that place was like a day or 2 worth of memories. As a proof, try to see the pictures below of how we enjoy our stay in the beautiful and peaceful Puka beach in Bora. 

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Silliman University - Dumaguete City

Hey pals, I’m on my way of posting a new blog post today. Last time, I brought you to Dumaguete’s Boulevard and the beautiful residential resort Tierra Alta. So, what’s next? Do you have any idea?

Come on! I won’t end my journey in Dumaguete without paying a visit to Silliman University. According to university’s official website http://su.edu.ph/, Silliman University is the oldest American institution in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. Seeing it in live is already an achievement so the United Backpackers didn’t miss the chance. We tour around the whole vicinity of one of the famous school in the Philippines.

It is so good that we had the chance to drop by at their library building. Most probably, their top students or wiz students usually hang out there. Since, we aren’t really up to hanging out with their wiz students. We moved to their freedom wall. We checked out their messages on it and pose also with the freedom wall as our background. Well, we’ve got freedom! We’ve seen also their ground with curve-shape chairs.It reminds me of a small movie theatre. It’s really unique and beautiful. Honestly, I don’t know how they call it. So, if you know let me know.

In fact, Dumaguete is not just known as the capital of Negros Oriental but also known for the refined, clever ambience represented by its most famous institution, Silliman University. Now, if you’re interested to visit the place make sure also to witness their amazing marine world. Dumaguete is also a gateway to nearby dive sites at Apo, Sumilon and Siquijor islands. That means non-stop fun all the way!

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Tierra Alta Dumaguete City

A visit in Region VI is incomplete without a closer look of the residential resort Tierra Alta which is said to be not just your home but a lifestyle. To be exact it’s in Palinpinon Valencia, Negros Oriental which takes 12 minute drive from city proper to reach it. According to its developer it is called Tierra Alta because of its high terrain. You’ll have the chance to see the view from the top –the oceans sea breeze and see the nearby islands. 

They have best amenities, Greek inspired club house and pavilion, Mediterranean cuisine at Tierra Café, light house view deck, cliff side Boulevard, picnic and Bon fire areas, lagoon type swimming pool, sports facilities and zip line adventure at the rush zip line. 

United Backpackers had the chance to take a picture at their rush zip line. It would have been a great experience if we tried it but the price isn’t that affordable so we decided to try it next visit. In case, you like to try it in your visit, the pictures below might be helpful. I hope you’ll share the thrill experience at their rush zip line. 

Visiting Tierra Alta is like visiting a dream place that only exists in books. For me, it’s like a paradise and for city people it is really an escape from busy streets in the city. I won’t be surprise if we hear soon that there are celebrities spotted in Tierra Alta for we know that it is their lifestyle.

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Boulevard in Dumaguete City

This time I’ll give you a hint of our next stop over. Have you heard Dan Byrd’s song that goes like, “Never knew that it would go so far, when you left me on that boulevard?” Aha, it’s Boulevard. However, it was not same Boulevard for we reached at the Boulevard where the “fun begins.” This is quoted from Blue Monkey Grill that situated at Boulevard in Dumaguete City.  

If you are looking for fresh air and a place for a walk with your lover then consider Boulevard. You can imagine that you’re the lead stars in a romantic movie wherein you two can walk along with lights like we saw in every plaza. Yay! I’m getting cheesy. Well, that’s kind of cheesy but it’s true when you walk under the bright lights of their lamp posts. 

Don’t you worry friends, Boulevard is for everybody. In fact, we went there as a group and we really had fun so you too will enjoy. It was a night experience of Boulevard so it may be a different view if you go there in the morning. One of the most unforgettable experience of Dumagute’s Boulevard are those business minded people who offers services like manicure/pedicure, massage and many others. This gives the tourist a chance to mingle with the locals. You can also taste their tasty grilled meat especially if you are into food trip. In fact, they do also have mini hotel near their Boulevard which allows the tourists to access the beauty of Dumaguete’s Boulevard easily. 

So, huwag maging banyaga sa sariling bansa. Packed up now!

 Blue Monkey Grill where you can taste their tasty grilled meat.

 Have a good time with people who offers services like manicure/pedicure, massage and many others.

 If you are craving for food then this area is for you.

The boulevard and the rows of restaurants, hostels and hotels.

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Kayaking in Antique - Tibiao-Brgy. Importante, Tuno

Hey pals, here I am again and this time I’m going to bring you in a bit extreme natured place in Philippines at Antique Tibiao-Brgy. Importante, Tuno. Oops, if this sounds too dangerous to you; you are wrong! Instead, this is much fun! Well, just like the Department of tourism slogan’s says, “It’s more fun in the Philippines”.

Together with the other members of United Backpackers I found myself astonished with the beauty of Antique. Also, we can’t leave the place without having fun with their much known “Kayaking”. Woohu! It was really an injection of adrenaline rush. Especially, if you see the fast movement of the water in the river and the rocks –you’ll feel your heart pumping. If you felt the feelings of trying something new for the first time before, then I am sure it was same feeling. You need to try this too!

Before you get carried away with my feelings at that time, let’s have Kayaking 101 first. Kayaking is for all who wants to have fun the outdoors. A boat called kayak is involve in this leisure sport which can be brought to ocean, up rivers, in surf zones, and along white water courses. It is actually in different forms that depend on its function. What we had in Antique is like in the pictures below. It’s like a banana boat in terms of color (lol!). The boat is paired with paddle and life jacket (of course, for safety purposes).

The guide there trained us how to paddle and control the boat since it was totally new to us. In plain and calm water we learn to control the kayak in our own. Afterwards, the fun and excitement began.

My Expenses

Habal-Habal (Motorcycle from the main road)-Kayak INN (Back and forth)        Php 140.00

Kayak                                                                                                                          Php 500.00

Room- Cottage/Nipa Hut (Bahay Kubo) (Overnight Stay)                                     Php 500.00

Food and Drinks                                                                                                        Php 500.00

Total Expenses                                                                                                          Php 1,640.00

For reservations, you may text or call Ate Sheila or Kuya Edwin at 0921-570-1947.

Getting excited for kayaking!

Learning the basics how to use a kayak, paddling and safety techniques with Manong our instructor.

And now the thrill begins...Hehehe. Good paddling there Gino...

Glenn is struggling with a kayak that is just too much for him to handle...You can do it Glenn. Hahaha

While Neal had a rough time in maneuvering/paddling the kayak. Hahaha.

I am in trouble, HELP! HELP! HELP... It's really difficult to maneuver...

We finally reached our destination. Lol. We survived the long series of rapids. Kodus to us! we made it with scared...Hahaha.

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