The most prominent features of La Carlota City aside from the sugar cane fields, and antiquated sugar mills are its rainforest-covered mountains and the spectacular waterfalls. If you’re into chasing waterfalls, this is just the place to go. La Carlota is blessed with several, some of which can only be appreciated from afar because they are not that accessible, but there are many just near the main road although you may have to trek a bit to reach the other falls which include: Dalupya Falls, EZ Falls, Busay Kapid, Busay Mayor, Busay Abaga, Busay Oro.
It takes only about half an hour to get to Guintubdan from the city proper. Accommodation is available at Barangay Ara-al in Sitio Guintubdan where the Guintubdan Mountain Resort (Pavilion) is located. The place is very cold, the temperature somewhat like that in Baguio. it is recommended that you bring a warm jacket which you will need without doubt especially at night time. Entrance fees are very cheap (P20 for adults and P10 for children) and room rates are very affordable (P300-500/pax); Food is usually not available but may be pre-ordered/arranged, otherwise, you need to bring your own. Grills for ihaw-ihaw are available and the market is just half an hour to reach if you have your own vehicle.
Bring appropriate clothes for rainforest chilly weather and be careful with the wild vegetation along the way to and from the falls. Be ready for the ice-cold water when you take a dip in the pool where water cascades from the falls. Remember also never to leave trash to keep the pristine beauty of these places and let others enjoy this natural spectacle as well.
And what better way to spend the evening with travel buddies but to revel in each other’s stories over “home-cooked” dinner overlooking the rainforest. Afterwards, having a taste of their native organic coffee is definitely the perfect way of ending a day of chasing waterfalls.
Nowadays, the most popular family getaway in Negros is probably the Campuestuhan Highland Resort. It boasts of a vast themepark full of various attractions. Upon entry you can already guess how much children will enjoy the place; not only little children but also the teenagers and the young at heart. Even from a certain distance you can hear the call of “Kingkong”, that giant gorilla in the movie we have all probably seen before. You can also be part of an Indiana Jones sort of movie scene or act out a scene with a superhero.
Of course who can ignore the equally gigantic dinosaurs. Children just sooo love dinosaurs even if they are mean-looking with all the huge dagger-like sharp teeth, and very long tail! Actually there are also children who are afraid of dinosaurs so they better stay where the superheroes are because the dinos are all over the place!
If you come early there are several swimming pools where children will surely have a great time as long as the heat is not yet intense, otherwise they will surely get sunburned. Furthermore during holidays and peak season it could get really crowded by midday until afternoon. There’s also a huge pool where waves are generated to make guests feel like they’re swimming/bathing in the sea.
Campuestuhan may look like a playground for children with giant toys all over, but it’s also kind of a playground for the adventurous teens and adults alike who would dare to try the hang glider, zipline, cable hamster wheel, do the rope course, just cross the hanging bridge or skybike. I have tried the zipline in other places before so I was not excited about it. I pondered on doing the skybike, but I hesitated. Later when my friends said they will try it I was also convinced that I could do it. But I was really thinking, “will I survive?” At first we said can we just close our eyes when biking while crossing a wire suspended on air between two towers several stories high. I tried to calm down and forced myself to just look ahead and not down. But then I realized it’s not just what you see but more what you feel when the wind blows and the wire starts swinging; it’s like you don’t know if your heart is still beating or it’s beating so rapidly you can no longer feel it. It was definitely an adventure of a lifetime for me, i’m never gonna do it again! And by the way I got a certificate when I reached the other tower so I passed the test, I faced my fear head-on and I was sooo grateful I am still alive!
After the skybike ride, who would still want to do the other rides or skywalks? I know there are others who are more courageous than me, but I already reached my quota for adventure that day.
Accommodations are available so if you wanna do all the adventure courses, it’s better to stay at least overnight and also to be able to go swimming early while walk-in guests have not arrived yet. There is also a restaurant serving many different choices of food and there are kiosks scattered all over for refreshments/snacks. Their accommodations are in cute hobbit houses or Indian tepees and other unique structures, even the restroom looks like a giant shoe house.
If you ask children if they wanna go back and experience it differently when they are bigger, obviously the answer is yes. I wonder if I go back there will I be brave enough to try another heartbeat-stopping and hair-raising adventure? Or may I just take really nice photos of new attractions!
Negros is generally considered as the “sugarland” or “sugarbowl” of the country because much of the sugarcane production in the country comes from Negros. Vast areas of haciendas have been established way back during Spanish occupation. The sugar industry made many of the hacienderos very wealthy and the province in general. Hence there are 12 component cities and 1 independent or highly urbanized city, Bacolod City which is also the capital of the province. The city definitely has a lot to offer for those who are citygoers especially for those who are fond of shopping. However, I would rather visit other sites. It’s nice to see their government offices, plaza, and museums and embark on culture and heritage journey.
Since Negros is surrounded by water, the only way to get there from other provinces is thru airplane or ferry. From Iloilo, there are several fast crafts daily that depart either from Iloilo City or Dumangas, Iloilo (Oceanjet, Weesam, Fastcat, Supercat, 2Go, etc.) and takes just over an hour to get to Bacolod so it is quite easy to go back home in the afternoon.
The two cities nearby, Silay and Talisay are sometimes mistakenly considered by many people as Bacolod City although they are distinct yet they are also within the metropolitan area. The new International Airport is actually located in Silay City. Silay used to be the home of the rich and famous, among the most well known during their time was National Artist for architecture Leandro Locsin and international singer Conchita Gaston. There are 30 heritage houses in Silay, one of which became the first museum in the Negros, now known as the Balay Negrense. It was the ancestral house of Victor Gaston but it was abandoned by his heirs for a long time that it was later acquired and managed by the Negros Cultural Foundation which restored the house and has since been part of historical/cultural tourism destination in Negros.
Another ancestral house in the midst of an hacienda in Talisay City (not so far from Bacolod City) got the attention of tourists when it was opened to the public by the descendants of the previous owner. What is now called “the Ruins” used to be the family mansion of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson. He built the Italian style mansion to honor his wife, Maria Braga. According to the guide “It was a tragic love story because Maria Braga died when she was pregnant with their 11th child.” The Ruins was the outcome when “the mansion was bombed by US forces and later set on fire by Filipino guerrillas to prevent the Japanese from using it during world war II.” Despite what happened, however, it has withstood all adversities just like the love of Don Mariano that remained even after his wife had died. Hence, the mansion is likened to the Taj mahal that’s why people visit the place not only because of the architecture but also because of the beautiful though tragic story of love that still fascinates guests to this day.
When we hear the word Davao, what comes to mind automatically are the most famous symbols of the city such as durian, orchids, eagle. As you exit Davao International Airport, there is a huge durian sculpture and I was able to take a photo of it a long time ago. Another thing that connotes Davao is the waling-waling orchid. The airport is decorated with these symbolic figures as passengers proceed to claim their baggage.
I just love durian even with its pungent odor. It has this exquisitely rich creamy sweet taste that lingers (including the smell) long after you’re done eating. I can actually finish one whole fruit just by myself. Too bad we have no Durian tree in our backyard. All of us in the family love durian (the real fruit not the candy). Durian is not the only fruit produced in Davao though. They produce a lot of bananas for export and also mangosteen, rambutan, marang and other tropical fruits. Durian, however is the favorite of Davaoenos.
Magsaysay Park is lined with durian fruit stalls from end to end and people just choose which fruit they want to eat then the vendor opens it for them, give the customers plastic gloves so their hands won’t get messy and smelly afterwards. But what’s peculiar is that they order a bottle of coke to drink while eating durian! I tried it but I would rather just eat durian and drink water after I’m done. There are several varieties of durian with their particular characteristics. I don’t remember which variety I preferred but it’s the one that is creamy but not too sweet, and with what they call somewhat “bitter taste”. Anyway the vendor can tell you exactly what to expect. I tasted several and there were indeed subtle differences; but for me all durian fruits taste great no matter what variety! Other stalls across the street also sell durian candies, durian tarts, cookies & other souvenirs.
If you have other transactions in Davao and have no time to visit tourist destinations, a quick stop at the People’s Park will give you an overview of what’s in Davao. At the park you will find the magnificent giant eagle sculpture seemingly swooping down on its prey. Sculptures that depict cultural traditions can also be found there and a botanical garden, as well as other modern attractions. Outside the park there are souvenir shops where you can buy shirts with Davao print and products made of their traditional cloth “tinalak” and/or “dagmay”.
If you want to see real eagles though, you have to visit the Philippine Eagle Conservation Center in Malagos, Davao. It is being run by the Philippine Eagle Foundation. Because the Eagle is considered as a national treasure and yet already endangered, there is a need for captive breeding to sustain their population. When captive breeding is successful, the birds can later be released in the wild. The center also doubles as a rescue center for other threatened animals and ecological park so they collect conservation fees that will help in the operation of the center. Some of the captive animals in their care have been adopted by corporate sponsors financially as part of their social responsibility. Many environmentalists and environmentally conscious groups and individuals also donate to the foundation. Although there are regular staff and several volunteers working in the center, there are many problems in sustainability and sometimes the animals die of disease or other factors.
Wildlife that were confiscated and even dead animals are donated to be preserved for educational purposes. Thor was one of the preserved (stuffed) eagles being displayed in the center. She was turned over to the center when she was younger but she failed to reproduce probably because of her traumatic experience before she was turned over to the center according to the guide. Each bird in the center has its own name. The staff try very hard to care for these animals but the space is simply not big enough. The only sustainable way really is to have a vast forested area untouched by people where animals can roam freely and forage or hunt for their own food in the wild.
Malagos, Davao is home to one of the best chocolates in the world. Malagos chocolates have garnered several awards in the international market for its high quality products. Most Filipinos however, do not really prefer dark chocolates as we are used to sweet chocolates with more sugar. Although Malagos chocolates are not very popular among the Filipino masses also because these are relatively expensive, are more favored by foreigners especially the health conscious. What is popular among local tourists in Malagos garden resort is the beautiful landscape and the bird show as well as the buffet lunch.
Another tourist destination in Davao is Jack’s Ridge. The Jack’s Ridge Restaurant & Resort is located in Shrine Hills in Matina, Davao City. They serve the best durian shake! Actually it was only there where I tasted the durian fruit shake. The restaurant is also famous for its Dabawenyo food but it is more popular for its strategic location. Being situated on the slope of a hill gives it the advantage of having an unobstructed view of the whole city. This vantage point also served an important role during World War II when the Japanese used the area as part of their headquarters. Now, Jack’s Ridge Restaurant and Resort offers a great view of the Central Business District of Davao with its glittering lights. Outside the restaurant, shells of giant clams and other fossils are being displayed as proof that the ridge was submerged in the sea in the distant past.
One more thing I remember about Davao is the environmental singer/songwriter José Íñigo Homer Lacambra Ayala otherwise known as Joey Ayala. He sang the “Karaniwang Tao” and “Agila” which are commonly used to accompany students’ interpretative environmental dance presentations. Although he hailed from Bukidnon, he has a studio in Davao and had been performing there with his Bagong Lumad Band using a fusion of ethnic/traditional and contemporary musical instruments which made them stand out. He is unforgettable not only for his melodious rich voice but he is also an outstanding musician playing multiple instruments; most of all he cares deeply for the environment and promotes his cause through music.
For Catholics, a visit in one place should always include the church. The St. Peter’s Metropolitan Cathedral in Davao was designed as an ark which gave it a unique appearance among catholic cathedrals. Like all metropolitan cities though, the cathedral cannot accommodate all the faithfuls in the city, hence, schedule of mass is not only once but several times.
Bohol was our next stop. It is accessible by ferry/fast craft from Cebu City. There is also a seaport in Argao where we took the Light Ferry to go to Tagbilaran, Bohol. There were several carinderias at the pier and food is affordable. It is always better to eat first before boarding because food in the ship are usually expensive and choices are very limited.
Passengers in the ferry were not too many so we got to choose where to sit either facing the tv if you want to watch a movie or a window seat with a good view of the seascape. For a while we preferred the window seat but when the scenery got monotonous we moved closer to the tv to enjoy the show and later moved closer to the exit to easily get off upon arrival at the next port.
It was a bit late when we arrived. We awaited a bit for the taxi that was contacted beforehand and went straight to the accommodation we have pre-booked. Although the room was cheap, they did not serve food so we looked for a place to have dinner and wandered around until we got to The Bee Farm. Food in the place was very expensive because it was a touristy place. We just tried their ice cream with unusual flavors added with honey. Luckily we discovered a carinderia just outside the facility which offers really sumptuous “lutong bahay” meals at affordable prices. We learned that employees of the Bee Farm resort were dining there.
The following day we had to leave early but there was no one at the front desk so we just checked ourselves out leaving the key by the table and just got ready for the day’s adventure. we hired a taxi to get us around Bohol. Our itinerary included the site of the Blood Compact (between Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna) where a commemorative monument of the event was erected. It was a historical event dubbed as the “First International Peace Treaty” that’s why it was given importance in our history books.
Another must visit in Bohol is the Tarsier Conservation Area, where the tiny primates may be observed closely. I remember ET (of the Steven Spielberg Film), an alien that really looked like a tarsier. Of course we got some tarsier stuffed toy/body bags as pasalubong for the pamangkins.
Also a ‘must do’ in Bohol is the Loboc River Cruise. It must be scheduled about lunch time as the tour includes an all you can eat buffet of delectable main courses as well as desserts and drinks. It was definitely a relaxing but stomach-filling activity and at the same time sort of cultural immersion because the tour includes viewing cultural performances by the community. This tour is highly recommended by local tourists because it also recreates childhood experiences with children bathing in the river and swinging and diving from tree branches into the water.
Another addition to the itinerary was the canopy walk in Bilar man-made mahogany forest which covers 2km stretch between Loboc and Bilar and we’re fortunate that there were not too many photobombers that time.
Obviously a visit in Bohol would not be complete without dropping by the world famous Chocolate Hills. Our tour in Bohol culminated in this geologic wonder shaped by nature. What we have seen in Osmena Peak and Chocolate Hills are only few of nature’s astonishing forms. We should never cease appreciating these magnificent structures that abound in nature. We only have to look around and marvel at the goodness and abundance that we have been blessed with in our country.
The only places we really wanna visit in Cebu are the Osmena Peak and the hometown of one of our colleagues in Linut-od, Argao. Fortunately my colleagues were like-minded people who also preferred to take a vacation in a laid-back place where you get to breath fresh air in verdant surroundings. I had wanted to go to Osmena Peak even then I just wasn’t able to find time before, until recently when we booked our tickets early. When the day came, we took a bus from Roxas City to Iloilo and boarded the plane to Cebu. It was already evening when we arrived in Cebu City.
Traffic congestion was really bad as the taxi we boarded ferried us to the South Bus Terminal. The driver of the taxi was trying to convince us that he can actually take us straight to Argao faster so we don’t have to take a bus anymore. We were not convinced as taxi drivers in Cebu usually take advantage of passengers. After a while we got to the terminal and had dinner before proceeding to where the passengers were. There was a very long queue and we were told that there was only 1 queue for all trips no matter which bus we will be boarding so we just took our seat and waited ever so patiently. It felt like waiting in queue took longer than the trip itself. Then it was our turn to board the bus en route to Argao which leaves at 12:00 midnight. The trip to Argao took approximately 2 hours. Our friend’s cousin was also in the same bus and headed to the same town we were headed so we did not get lost at that unholy hour.
we slept for just 2 hours because we had to leave at 4:00AM to get to Osmena Peak before sunrise. Although it was really tiring we got up when the alarm sounded and headed to the mountains. It was cold at early morning because the elevation was increasing and it was really windy at the peak. It was a very easy climb but for my friends it was kind of challenging because it was their first time hiking on a mountain.
By midday we visited a university in town to meet former colleagues of our friend and we got to see their facilities. We then proceeded to the mountainous barangay of Linut-od, the 2nd farthest barangay 23km away from the town. It is where the Coal Mountain Resort is located. It offers a very refreshing retreat in a remote area of Cebu, far from the noise and smog of the city. It took almost an hour of bumpy ride through narrow, rough and dusty dirt road. Houses were few and far between and both sides of the road were typically covered with wild vegetation. There were also cultivated areas where there were houses.
The mountain resort is owned by the family of the Vice-mayor of Argao, originally just a family vacation home. Later, they accommodated tourists who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Indeed it was a very quiet and relaxing place overlooking verdant mountains but with comfortable hotel standard rooms and amenities like swimming pool, internet connection and they also serve reasonably-priced although limited choices of food.
Cebu is known for its historical significance, old catholic churches, shrines, religious festivities, busy streets, guitar, mango chips and otap. There are actually remote areas in Cebu that are really worth exploring, and we discovered many more wonderful things about Cebu during this trip.
We have scheduled a trip to Alaminos, Pangasinan from Baguio City. It is only more than 2hours by van and there are many accommodations available. There are beach resorts in the coastal area but Alaminos City is really famous for the Hundred Islands. There are literally hundred (123) islands that comprise the National Park. Tourists flock to the area on summer vacation since it is less than 3 hours from Baguio and only about 5 hours travel from Manila to Alaminos City.
Obviously, the locals are used to having many guests coming and leaving after a quick tour of the islands. For those who are staying overnight though, the city government provides entertainment (live bands) and the food courts offer different food choices but mostly grilled seafoods. Toilets are numerous and clean, and policemen and tourist assistance staff are on duty in the evening. There are also bikes for rent and a lot of souvenir shops near the wharf and there are also numerous boats that ferry tourists to their island destinations.
The hundred island island-hopping tour package includes Pilgrimage island where the faithful can follow the way of the cross which culminates at the peak where there is the gigantic image of Jesus Christ and mass can be held.
Marcos island is more preferred by adventurous guests especially the youngsters as it has a nice swimming/bathing area as well as cliff jumping inside a cave which makes the experience more memorable.
The Quezon Island is another favorite with its hanging bridge and the picturesque view. It has also unique rock formations and crevices where you can take shelter from the heat of the sun. We just passed by the Bat island and saw colonies of the nocturnal organisms having their rest. Because there were many of us though, some bats got disturbed although we did not get so near. I would have liked to linger a bit in other islands because some islands are considered as bird haven, the Wild Bird Club members have identified more than 50 bird species in the Hundred Islands National Park. Anyway, I still had a great time exploring a few of the hundred islands with our ‘Itchy Feet’ family.
We also dropped by the Enchanted Cave in Patar, Bolinao, Pangasinan. It’s definitely a tourist destination with modern swimming pools aside from the natural cold spring hidden in a small cave believed to be enchanted, hence the name. Limestone formations dot the landscape, a telltale sign of their origin indicating that the area used to be submerged in the sea. The enchanted cave offers a different feel of Patar, Bolinao which is pretty well-known for its numerous white sand beaches.
Baguio City is considered as the Summer Capital of the Philippines or City of the Pines as vast areas had been planted with pine trees since it was governed by the Americans in the past. It has a cold climate because it is located at almost 5,000 ft. above sea level. Many people from Manila and even far flung provinces troop to Baguio to escape the heat and enjoy the cool air on this famous summer destination. It takes about 6 hours by bus (Victory Liner, JoyBus, Genesis, etc.) from Manila to Baguio.
Aside from pine trees, Baguio is also famous for strawberries, agricultural crops such as cabbage, carrots, sayote and fresh cut flowers which are being being grown abundantly in surrounding terraced farms in Benguet and the Mountain Province.
I’ve been to Baguio several times and there have been a lot of changes in the commercial areas including the sites frequented by tourists. Among the popular sites are the public parks such as the Burnham Park, Wright Park, Mines View Park, Peoples’ Park and Sunshine Park as well as the Mansion, which is the summer home of the President of the Republic of the Philippines.
Burnham Park
Burnham Park
Burnham Park
Wright Park
Wright Park
People’s Park
Sunshine Park
Sunshine Park
The Mansion
The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has also become a tourist attraction, however, there are times when tourists are not allowed in their premises. We were lucky that there was a time when we were able to have a tour around the PMA facilities.
One of my favorite places in Baguio is the BenCab Museum owned by National Artist BenCab situated on a hill. The artist has his own organic farm and fishpond in the valley behind the museum. There is also a cafe/resto in the first floor overlooking the valley. It is accessible from the city proper via passenger jeep or taxi although not very many tourists probably know its location.
BenCab Museum
BenCab Museum
BenCab Museum
BenCab Museum
BenCab Museum
BenCab Museum
BenCab Museum
behind BenCab Museum
inside BenCab Museum
inside BenCab Museum
at the receiving area
Cafe Isabel at BenCab Museum
The organic Farm of BenCab
The fishpond behind the museum
Another favorite hang out is the Oh my Gulay restaurant, a charming rustic place owned by another National Artist Kidlat Tahimik just among the old structures in the city center. It is probably known only among artists that even during Panagbenga, you can dine quietly and linger for a bit and even take photos in every nook because it’s like you have the place all to yourself since there are not too many people hanging out. Food and drinks in the the menu have unique patriotic names and are served arranged in a very artistic manner as well.
Oh My Gulay resto/Artists’ Hub
Another attraction in Baguio is the “ukay-ukay” or night market wherein whole stretch of Harrison street (in front of flower stalls) and several streets around Burnham Park and the wet market are being closed to traffic at exactly 9:00P.M. Ukay-ukay vendors readily sell their goods (clothes, bags, shoes) at really bargain prices and if you’re really good at haggling prices, you might get them even cheaper! The Night market opens until 2:00AM but it could get really cold so better wear something warm and comfy. After ukay-ukay, we just had to find hot choco or coffee.
The most anticipated event in Baguio though which generates a lot of guests/tourists and income for the local businesses is the annual Panagbenga (Flower) Festival. People eagerly line the streets to view the floats decorated all over with flowers, and street dancers performing on the streets in colorful flowery costumes or traditional clothes.
It is a 3-day event with several activities including merry-making, art exhibitions, talks, workshops and also competitions and presentations of various government, NGO, private, academic and other institutions in Baguio City and the Caraga Region whose office is also situated in the Chartered City of Baguio. And for those who missed the parade, the floats can be viewed in the parade ground of their city stadium.
Sometimes it is also participated in by famous tv/media personalities such as Benjie Paras and his son. Speaking of famous personalities, we also ran into Ms. Venus Raj, (Ms. Universe 2010 4th Runner-up, famous for her “pilapil walk”) at the airport when we left Baguio.
Aside from admiring the beautiful landscape in the parks and attending the festival, other things people do in Baguio include horse-back riding or just having a photo with the beautiful horses, just walking along parks at night to feel the distinct cold climate in Baguio, and/or going to the Cathedral. Before going home, of course the last stop would be the souvenir shop/pasalubong center wherever there are tourists, but the cheaper same quality goods are still found inside the public market. Strawberry jam and Ube jam used to be the standard pasalubong, but now there are so many other products to bring home as pasalubong.
We hired a van from Manila to Sagada. We left Bonifacio Global City (BGC) after dinner at about 9:00P.M. so that it will be daytime when we reach our destination. It took us about 9 hours to get to Nueva Vizcaya where we had our breakfast at Jollibee at about 6:00AM.
Then we went on with our trip until we reached the border of Banaue where we took some photos and also in the area where we can get a really good view of the rice terraces. Funny though when you ask a non-photographer to take your group souvenir photo and later you find out that he just didn’t get it that there has to be some proof that you were in that place.
As we proceed to our destination we almost cannot feel our legs, getting numb from sitting in the van all day. Some of us were sleeping, others were just listening to music and texting or playing games with their cellphones. I was looking out the window and taking photos but most were not good because my camera is just good for taking still pictures.
By the time we got to Bontoc we were all wide awake and some colleagues were complaining that they were already getting nauseated with the seemingly unending circular road which later became not only winding but going upward on a steep climb. We were holding our breath at each blind curve praying that the driver can maneuver the van safely. Finally the driver announced that we were almost near but the road was getting steeper so we must brace ourselves. Then it happened! The engine overheated and there was a lot of smoke. We all had to get off and we sat beside the road while the driver was inspecting the vehicle. Luckily the other van was behind us so the other driver helped and we all had to donate our drinking water so our vehicle will be able to function again. Obviously there were no repair shops nor refueling stations anywhere in sight, and no stores for refreshment so our spirits were really down. But we stuck together taking groupfies and others were trying their funny antics to calm the nerves of everyone. We were somewhat afraid because there were areas that had landslides so we were all just praying that we will all be safe.
Finally we reached Sagada, a quaint town where shops were in the first floor of houses and there were no names on the stores. Their public market’s name looked like it was just scribbled by someone. The houses though were being built higher and higher to accommodate tourists that have been steadily increasing putting a lot of pressure on the community and their resources.
We were already very hungry by the time we checked in our accommodation. After we’ve settled in our rooms we decided to look for a place to have our lunch but since we had different preferences everyone was free to go where each wanted to eat. We chose the famous Sagada Lemon Pie House. The pie was great and deserved to be promoted, however they don’t serve anything else besides pie and a few choices of drinks. So we decided to have dinner later in a small restaurant also owned by the owner of the inn where we were staying.
After lunch, we went caving in Sumaging caves. it was somewhat challenging because nobody brought a flashlight and the guides were using “petromax”. Although it can illuminate the place, it also limited the movement of the guides. It was also very slippery inside and since there were many guests going inside the cave, the guides cannot assist each one. We were just very careful with each step and held on tightly on rock surfaces. There were areas with flowing water but the guides also put ropes for the safety of their guests. That was a somewhat exhilirating experience because we had to climb up and down steeply inclined rocks and there was this really narrow passage, we had to go one at a time. We did not proceed anymore to the more challenging part because it has started raining and the guides said it could get dangerous inside when it is raining. Outside the cave, across the street there was a souvenir shop where tourists can buy mementos to take home.
Early the next morning we went to Kiltepan peak to witness the sun rise over the “Sea of Clouds”. We went there in a jeepney and the vehicle can park not so far from the viewing area so it was really accessible that’s why there were so many people also waiting for the sun to rise. There were just too many photobombers we had to move a little further from the crowd that were starting to gather. It’s very cold out there so it is best to have a jacket, and cap on. We had hot porridge and coffee for breakfast at Kiltepan. Afterwards we went back to the inn by jeep. Some went on the top of the jeep because they want to feel the really cold air of Sagada on their faces as the jeep speeds through the narrow winding road back to town. I did not (I only had a photo while on topload) because I have a friend who had an accident while on top of the jeep I never forgot how dangerous it could be. Although there is always risk in travelling, there are ways to lessen the danger. When going somewhere, be ready and think of safety first.
The trip to Sagada would not be complete without visiting Bomod-ok Falls located in Barangay Fidelisan. There are community guides at the jump-off point who took us to the site.
Along the way, we passed by the village and we noticed how closely the houses were built which also signified the closely-knit relationship among them. They have communal grain storage areas and people do most of the things through bayanihan. When we passed by the village they happened to be preparing for a wedding the following day and they butchered 3 carabaos. Everyone was busy helping prepare food for everyone. It was like a fiesta wherein the whole community was involved and they said the celebration lasts for several days to even a week. Aside from the storage areas, they have a common source of free water and they have improvised a “cable cart” to easily haul up heavy materials and their harvest from the valley. We also passed by the terraced rice fields and it took about an hour of walking under the heat of the sun to our destination. It actually took longer because we had to stop every now and then to take photos or just admire the scenery and smile at the people in the fields or at the stops. The trek was not that challenging because there is a well-established if narrow trail with cemented steps near the village and eventually leading to the rice field and to the falls.
By the time we were almost near the falls it was almost high noon and the heat was so intense that many of us already felt so tired. Upon seeing the falls, however, everyone seemed to have been magically reinvigorated. Before proceeding to the falls, we stopped by a small hut where little children were picking cherry tomatoes and we bought some to take back for dinner later.
Some of our friends went into the pool to experience the ice-cold water from the falls but others just took great photos with the falls in the background. Bomod-ok Falls is also known as the Big Falls with its majestic 200m high cascade of very cold water.
We took a different path on the way back which was probably less tiring than the path we passed when we came to the falls. But because the path back was mostly going up, we were slower. The 8,000 steps (3-4hours) journey was so worth it when you finally make it back. We were not really in a hurry; we just wanted to look around once more, enjoy the surroundings and etch these moments in our memory.
The jeepney ride back to town was also an adventure in itself even if we were not on top of the jeep. It kind of elicits the same feeling you get when you ride the roller coaster but with less assurance of safety because the jeep is not held on track and there are no seatbelts. Looking out the window was like watching a suspense thriller! Jeepney drivers in Sagada are just so mighty good at maneuvering on these winding narrow dirt roads by the cliff they so deserve my gratitude for bringing us safely back to town.
In the afternoon we still had time to have a bit of cultural education among the dead of the Igorot tribe in the Echo Valley just beside the public cemetery. It is actually a sacred site but it has also become a tourism site which has given locals a source of income. Aside from the hanging coffins, the area also has camping, hiking, and wall climbing as its attractions.
The community guides were there to orient the guests and answer their questions about the tradition of hanging the coffins on a cliff. The guide explained that hanging coffins has been their tradition to secure the corpse from animals and headhunters in the past but only the authentic (“genuine” – 100%) Igorots have the right to be buried hanging up there. The coffins were rather small because they practice tying the dead with rattan and shaped like a ball and they also break the bones to fit in the small coffin. But first the dead was made to sit on a burial chair then tied and wrapped in a blanket in a fetal position (like when the fetus was inside the womb). During burial procession the relatives pass around the dead and believe that it can bring good luck when they get smeared with the fluids from the dead. It was not a hygienic practice and also some members are already afraid to break the bones of their dearly departed member so tribe members who were already influenced by Christianity opted to have the modern way of getting buried. It’s also easy for them to visit and clean the burial area in the public cemetery. Moreover, many people are now of mixed ancestry that only very few qualify as pure-blooded. Those who were ‘privileged’ to get buried up there nearer their ancestors actually got to choose their place when they were still alive and the tribe leaders granted their wish when they finally bade goodbye.
From Sagada, we took a different route because our colleagues wanted to drop by Baguio City. Although many of us have been to Baguio we know that it will be a different experience to be in Baguio again after several years. On our way, we passed by the highest point in the Philippine highway system located in Atok Benguet at an elevation of 7,400ft above sea level. It was somewhat foggy despite the sun being up and shining brightly we had to keep our coat and cap on against the cold. We quickly took souvenir photos, had breakfast and bought some pasalubong to bring back home to our family. When we get home, we have more stories to tell, not only about how beautiful were the places we visited but also about the culture, traditions and many other things we have observed and learned that were not written in books.
This Islamic state although small in size is very rich economically because of its oil and gas reserves and a small population to support. It is an absolute monarchy with the sultan as the head of state and it has its advantages too. Looking at the aerial view, it seems that infrastructures are neatly arranged and forests which covers approximately 70% of the land area are tucked in between and/or around communities. Cultivated areas are small since Brunei doesn’t depend on farming for their income. Although the Brunei International airport is not that large it is very modern. Many people in Brunei have their own cars so there isn’t any taxi in the airport but for tourists and migrant workers there are APVs, vans and mini buses. And because Brunei is an Islamic State, citizens are predominantly muslims and there is even a mosque right beside the airport.
The most ubiquitous structures in the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan exhibiting impressive islamic architecture are the various mosques visited not only by the faithful but also by tourists. One of the most stunning mosques is the National Mosque, Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah. It is the Largest mosque in Brunei with a pair of magnificent fountains outside and has 29 golden domes in honor of the 29th Sultan HM Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah.
Another most-frequented mosque, the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is considered as Brunei’s Star. It was named after the 28th Sultan of Brunei and probably the most famous landmark of the city. It has a lagoon with a 16th century royal barge. Brunei Darussalam Heritage Trail includes a tour of the mosque, museums and garden in the vicinity of this magnificent structure; it has marble minarets, all white facade, and a golden dome reflected on the water of the lagoon when viewed from the waterfront. A pedicab may be rented to go around the heritage area.
On the other side across the street towards the river is the water village, Kampung Ayer very much like the Badjao settlement because people live in stilt houses in the Brunei River. They have formed a community with their own mosque, school, police station, fire station and restaurants. It has become one of the attractions of the city. There are water taxis (speed boats) to move around.
Other attractions in the city are the museums, particularly the Royal Regalia Museum where everything that were used when the sultan was enthroned are being kept. It includes gifts from leaders all over the world. Unfortunately, no picture-taking is allowed. When guests enter the exhibition area, bags, cameras and cellphones are surrendered to the staff who are very, very strict.
The magnificence of the gifts are beyond my vocabulary to describe. Some are in the form of precious stones, jewelries, gold and silver symbolic weapons, wood, stone and metal sculptures, something very precious that best represents the country where the gift is from. The president of the Philippines gave a sculpted figure encrusted with mother-of-pearl.
We also visited the home of the sultan of Brunei or his official residence known as Istana Nurul Iman but only up to the closed gate actually. The palace is said to be spectacular and costs more than 1B$. It is surrounded by a steel fence, its black steel adorned with golden painted accents. The gates are also adorned with the Map of Brunei, the Royal Emblem as well as the personal emblem of the Ruling Sultan.
They say that gold in Brunei is cheap, but I don’t really know because I’m not very fond of gold jewelries although I keep some gifts and hand-me-downs but I’m not keen on buying. Some of our colleagues though have prepared to buy ‘for investment’ so we visited one of the well-known jewelry stores in the city. I don’t know anything about jewelries but I also bought a pair of ear rings, a bracelet, necklace and a casio watch as souvenir. Since it was almost Ramadan and we were accompanied by the staff of our country’s military attache, we were given a considerable discount. I chose the most affordable set, which was probably not such a good choice ‘investment-wise’ because the price of gold tends to increase. Anyway I’m not really a business person so it’s ok but our colleagues were really happy with their gold investments.
We were lucky that our coordinator’s friend is our country’s Defense Attache at the time, so we were met by his staff at the airport and we were able to visit the embassy. The ambassador was not there that time so we were not able to meet him, but the staff were certainly happy to see fellow Filipinos visiting.
We were treated to a sumptuous lunch in a nice restaurant. In the evening, we enjoyed a superb dinner, eating Filipino food, singing and dancing at the house of the dignitary.
We also visited one of the attractions in the City of Bandar Seri Begawan, the Empire Hotel which exhibits Brunei opulence from its gold-gilded marble columns, glittering chandeliers, having its own cinema and golf course and royalties can be counted among its guests. At the time we visited, one of the princes of Brunei (cousin of the crown prince) was having a good time with friends and their Filipina nanny was in the lobby waiting until her ward decides it’s time to go home. The nanny related that she has taken cared of the prince since he was born and she goes wherever the prince goes that’s why she was able to live in different countries in Europe to take care of the prince. But they also travel with many escorts who were also with her stationed in different areas of the hotel to guard the prince. The Hotel is certainly palatial with the vast area it covers unlike other hotel structures, it was designed with a lot of open spaces, huge and long staircases, and facing the ocean making it a prime destination of the those who can afford. Although we can’t afford to stay in a hotel like this, the staff didn’t mind us taking photos as long as we don’t cause any trouble.
We stayed in a capsule hotel not so far from the airport situated in a compound with numerous but diverse businesses. Luckily there is a tiny Chinese restaurant just in front of the building where we were staying. They serve delicious but very affordable food because many employees nearby usually have their breakfast and lunch there.
The city is clean and orderly and the people are disciplined. Condominiums are common in Brunei. The structures are not so modern but not so old as well. The more modern homes are located in more private subdivisions but the structures also have uniform designs. Other structures in the city have modest sizes including some hotels, shopping malls and the university.
Other notable observations of Brunei is the importance they give to nature. They have forest parks all over and although fuel is very cheap and people don’t pay taxes, traffic jam is non-existent. It’s also very evident how they value tradition, religion, discipline and education.
Finally it’s time to leave and be grateful for another experience with a different place and culture. It’s time to say: “terima kasih” (thank you) and bid Brunei “selamat tinggal” (goodbye).
Images: Other Journeys 