Solo Travels – Page 2 – One-Armed Wanderer

accommodation
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- Hotel
- hotel review
- Siquijor
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5 reasons to stay in Gold Sky Seaview in Siquijor Island

Posted on March 25, 2017March 26, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

When Jen and I embarked in Siquijor port, there were tourism accredited tricycle drivers offering cheap Siquijor island tour (Related: Cheapest Siquijor tour package). After touring the island, our tricycle driver/tour guide was kind enough to help and show our options for our accommodation during our stay in Siquijor. We visited a number resorts and accommodations and decided that Gold Sky Sea View Guest House is fairly priced for a beach front accommodation.

Gold Sky Seaview Guest House

1. Good location

Gold Sky Sea View Guest House is located in San Juan municipality. Compared to other municipalities, San Juan is the nearest to Siquijor Port. Gold Sky Seaview is also few meters away from popular restaurants in Siquijor – Baha Bar & Restaurant and Marco Polo Pizza & Pasta. It is also literally few steps away from Czar’s Place – a popular drink and party destination of locals and tourists in the island.

2. Beach front cottages

There are many resorts and accommodations in Siquijor Island. If you have budget, you may want to stay in White Villas or Coco Grove Beach resort. On the other hand, for budget travelers and backpackers, there are cheap accommodations. Tori’s Paradise has a 300 Php a night rate in a mixed dormitory. Das Tratum Guesthouse also has a 250 Php a night rate.

Sadly, only the pricey resorts like Coco Grove offer beach front accommodations. Rooms in cheaper accommodations don’t usually have beach front views. Gold Sky Seaview Guest House may not be as grand and high-end as the pricey resorts but all of its three cottages are beach front. So, if you love swimming, you need not to visit other areas in Siquijor as you get to enjoy the beach right outside your cottage.

3. Privacy

If you are the type who loves peaceful and quiet surroundings, you will definitely love Gold Skyview Guest House. The resort has only three cottages. Each of which has toilet & bath and refrigerator.

The cottage is spacious and very clean. Extra beds are also readily available if needed. There is no hot & cold shower, however, toiletries such as bath towels, soap, shampoo and toilet paper are provided. You also get free wifi!

Since there are only three cottages, you get to enjoy your privacy during your stay in Gold Sky Seaview. We learned from the caretaker that the two cottages were occupied for an extended time at a lower rate. Unlike in other resorts, it’s peaceful, quiet and you get your own privacy.

There is also a common area where guests can cook. There is also a cabana right in front of the beach where you can simply relax and enjoy some drinks or a book.

4. Cheaply priced

With its strategic location, beach front cottages, peaceful and quiet surroundings, I should say that for only 1,500 Pesos ($30) is practically cheap. There is indeed cheaper accommodations in Siquijor but you won’t get beach front, spacious and air-conditioned room.

Gold Seaview Guest House’s rate for non-conditioned cottage is 1,000 Pesos ($20).

5. Friendly and helpful staff

A post shared by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on Jan 1, 2017 at 12:34am PST

Me in Gold Skyview Guest House

Throughout our stay, we felt very special with Rose, the resort’s caretaker. She was very welcoming, accommodating and helpful. Rose gave us tips on where to eat in the area and even assisted us on our fastcraft ticket purchase to Dumaguete City. She was very friendly and shared tons of stories about her life in the island.

Overall, Jen and I super enjoyed our stay in Gold Sky Seaview Guest House. We were very lucky that our tour guide showed us the resort. It was perfect for us. I personally love the quiet and peaceful surroundings. Being in a good location, we also get to dine in Siquijor’s sought after restaurants and experienced the island’s night life.

Gold Sky Seaview Guest House
Contact Number: 09169236243
E-Mail: [email protected]

You may check other Siquijor resorts and accommodations HERE.

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Solo Travels
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- Tawi-Tawi
- Travels

Visit to the Oldest Mosque in the Philippines: Sheikh Karim-ul Makhdum Mosque in Tawi-Tawi

Posted on February 21, 2017September 25, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

One of the Tawi-Tawi tourist destination on my to visit list is the oldest Mosque in the Philippines. With the help of Philippine Marines in Tawi-Tawi, Dave and I were able to visit Simunul Island, home of Sheikh Karim-ul Makhdum Mosque which holds the title of the oldest mosque in the country.

A post shared by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on Oct 7, 2016 at 12:40am PDT

Located in Tubig Indangan, Simunul, Tawi-Tawi, Sheikh Karim-ul Makhdum Mosque is a National Historical Landmark by virtue of Republic Act 10573.

Quick History of the oldest mosque in the Philippines

Facade

Oldest mosque in the Philippines

Sheik Makhdum Mosque

In 1380, An Arabian missionary, judge and scholar Sheik Makdum reached the shores of Simunul Island in Tawi-Tawi and supervised the construction of Sheikh Karim-ul Makhdum Mosque. This monumental event marked the introduction of Islam faith in the Philippines.

We were lucky to have met Haji Omar Biste, a Simunul Island local. He was so kind to share the history of the mosque.

With Haji Omar Baste — Left to Right: Dave (silverbackpacker.com). Haji Omar Biste, me posing on one of the original pillars of the mosque

According to Haji Omar, Sheik Makdum is one among the seven brothers to come to Simunul Island in Tawi-Tawi via lumpang bassi, a vessel resembling a tub or basin. Among the seven brothers, Sheik Makhdum was the first one to come to the Philippines. He met Tawi-Tawi natives, preached Islam and established the religion. Haji added that Sheik Makhdum’s coming to the Philippines is different from Magellan. Sheik came to the Philippines without any armour. He came bringing the faith of Allah. He civilized the natives from Paganism and brought light, tranquility and morality. Sheik Makhdum built this National Landmark 200 years before Magellan set foot in the country.

Centuries-old Pillars

The original pillars which served as the foundation of Sheikh Karim-ul Makhdum Mosque are well-preserved. The 638 year old Ipil hardwood pillars showcase intricate designs and strength as it survived being exposed to sun and rain. Villagers believe that the entire Simunul Island will sink once these pillars are destroyed.

According to Haji Omar, there were instances in the past that locals get small pieces from the pillars. They put these small wood pieces on their drinking water as these are believed to have healing powers. Since the community is trying to protect and preserve the pillars, they decided to completely cover the two pillars with white cloth.

Sheik Makhdum’s Tomb

Burial site

Sheik Makhdum’s tomb

Few meters behind the mosque is a burial site where Sheik Makhdum’s tomb is located. An old man was kind enough to let us go inside site. We were told that the sands on Sheik Makhdum’s tomb remain intact regardless of the weather.

Seeing the oldest mosque in the Philippines and learning more about our Islam brothers was fascinating and meaningful at the same time. Locals from kids to Hajis were very welcoming and friendly. After almost an hour in the area, we had to immediately leave for our Travel with a Purpose Project that afternoon.

Special thanks to Dave of silverbackpacker.com. Ms.Ritz of HOPE and especially to Tawi-Tawi Philippine Marines for making this Tawi-Tawi trip possible.

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Bacolod
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- Iloilo
- Solo Travels

How to get to Bacolod from Iloilo – Weesam Express, SuperCat 2GO, Oceanjet (ferry schedule, fare, travel time)

Posted on January 4, 2017September 25, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

There are no direct flights from Iloilo City to Bacolod City. The only means to get to Bacolod City from Iloilo City is by sea. The fastest, most convenient and most practical option is by a fastcraft ferry. Geographically, both cities are just 43.78 kilometers apart. Distance is equal to 23.63 nautical miles. With a fastcraft ferry, travel time is only 1 hour to 2 hours.

From Iloilo City, hail a taxi going to Iloilo River Wharf. Note that there are three seaports in Iloilo. The Dumangas Port, Iloilo port and the Iloilo River Wharf. The latter is where fastcrafts to Bacolod are docked. Just inform the taxi driver to bring you to the port.

There are three fastcraft ferry companies serving passengers from Iloilo going to Bacolod (vice versa). Weesam Express, SuperCat by 2GO and OceanJet. Here are their trip schedules, travel time, fares and contact numbers:

Note that the below information are based on what I have gathered during my recent trip from Iloilo to Bacolod. These may be subject to change. I highly advise to at least contact the ferry operators before going to the port.

SuperCat 2GO

SuperCat 2GO Iloilo to Bacolod Departure Schedule

7:30 AM
10:30 AM
2:00 PM
5:00 PM

SuperCat 2GO Iloilo to Bacolod Fare

Tourist – 260 Php
Deluxe – 230 Php
Economy – 190 Php

SuperCat contact number: +63 9423909945

OceanJet

OceanJet Iloilo to Bacolod Departure Schedule

6:05 AM
7:35 AM
9:05 AM
10:35 AM
12:30 PM
2:15 PM
3:45 PM
5:15 PM

OceanJet Iloilo to Bacolod travel time: 1 hour

OceanJet Iloilo to Bacolod Fare

Opern Air/Tourist class – 230 Php
Business class – 365 Php

OceanJet Iloilo contact number: +63 33 3353255
OceanJet Bacolod contact number: +63 34 4335359

Weesam Express

Weesam Express Iloilo to Bacolod Departure Schedule

6:30 AM
8:30 AM
9:50 AM
11:30 AM
1:10 PM
2:50 PM
4:35 PM

Weesam Express Iloilo to Bacolod travel time: 2 hours

Weesam Express Iloilo to Bacolod Fare

First Class – 300 Php
First Class (student) – 255 Php
First Class (senior citizen) – 240 Php

Tourist – 230 Php
Tourist (students) – 200 Php
Tourist (senior citizen) – 185 Php

Economy non-aircon – 200 Php
Economy non-aircon (students) – 170 Php
Economy non-aircon (senior citizen) – 160 Php

Weesam Express Contact Number: +63 3373282 / +63 9253496250

My Weesam Express Experience

Oceanjet has the earliest daily trip, for some reason, they do not have the 6:05 AM trip going to Bacolod that day. I had a chance to book the earliest trip (6:30 AM) to Bacolod via Weesam Express. Terminal fee is 30 Php but I only paid 24 Php, PWD discounted rate.

There is a security check in the terminal. Unlike in Batangas port where there is a baggage x-ray machine, guards manually check the bags in Iloilo Wharf port.

I wanted to seat in a non-air-conditioned area, unfortunately the 6:30 AM fastcraft ferry bound to Bacolod did not have the economy non-aircon seats. I bought a first class ticket instead (at a PWD discounted rate).

The first class seats are located on the first level of the ferry. There are 3 LCD flat screen TVs, a mini store selling snacks and drinks, and a comfort room. The seat is comfortable for a 2 hour cruise from Iloilo to Bacolod.

Tourist class seats Weesam Express — Tourist class seats

Since I do not have a first class seat ticket, I am not allowed to enter the first class seats at the second level. I still managed to take a photo of the area. Well, it appears that first class seats are more comfortable.

First Class seats Weesam Express — First Class seats

The entire Weesum Express trip from Iloilo to Bacolod was a breeze. I felt safe throughout the trip. I just did not realize that among the three fastcraft ferries, at 2 hours, Weesum Express has the longest travel time from Iloilo to Bacolod. Nonetheless, it has the cheapest rate and is ideal for slow budget travelling.

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Solo Travels
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- Tawi-Tawi
- Travels

How my Tawi Tawi Trip was Made Possible

Posted on November 27, 2016September 25, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Tawi-Tawi is one among the provinces in my to visit list this year. Visiting the southernmost frontier of the Philippines; enjoying its unspoiled white sand beaches; visiting the country’s very first and oldest mosque and seeing the indigenous Badjao tribe on their houses in stilts would be an ultimate travel experience. I started googling about the province and discovered that Tawi Tawi celebrates its annual Kamahardikaan Festival during the last week of September. I then decided that the last week of September is the right time to visit Tawi Tawi.

Getting to Tawi-Tawi

A photo posted by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on Oct 7, 2016 at 3:06am PDT

Unknown to many, Tawi Tawi is very accessible if you are coming from Manila or Zamboanga. However, there are no longer direct flights to Tawi-Tawi from Manila via the budget airline Cebu Pacific Air. Being a budget traveler, I could not afford to book flights to Tawi-Tawi. Getting there requires two flights (Manila to Zamboanga flight then Zamboanga to Tawi-Tawi). And another two flights back to Manila (Tawi-Tawi to Zamboanga and Zamboanga to Tawi-Tawi). Come Cebu Pacific seat sale, I immediately booked flights that will get me to Tawi-Tawi just right for the Kamahardikaan Festival. I only spent 2,800 Pesos for four flights (Manila to Zamboanga, Zamboanga to Tawi-Tawi and vice versa). I saved a lot compared to booking on regular rates which could cost around 10,000 Pesos.

Travel with A Purpose Project in Tawi Tawi

Travel with a Purpose in Tawi Tawi. Thank you to Dave, Hope Inc. and the Philippine Marines of Tawi-Tawi.

A month before my Tawi-Tawi trip, I travelled with my girlfriend to Islas de Gigantes in Iloilo. It was Islas when I started my Travel with a Purpose Project. My sole mission is to randomly give gifts to the locals. I started putting up fundraising accounts via various fundraising sites like gogetfunding and fundmytravel. Despite of not getting any donations, we pushed with the plan and just bought 2,000 Peso worth of toys and goodies in Roxas City before visiting Islas de Gigantes.

After our trip to the beautiful Gigantes Islas and after the successful gift giving, I published some photos on my social media accounts. It was on one of my Instagram post where a fellow Travel Blogger, Dave of Silverbackpacker.com asked me when will be my Travel with a Pupose Project in Tawi Tawi. I said I’ll be visiting Tawi Tawi during the Kamahardikaan festival. He did not hesitate to join. He immediately booked his tickets and helped me raise funds for the gift giving in Tawi-Tawi. Dave also introduced me to the founder of HOPE Incorporated, a non-profit organization whose tag is Helping Others Passionately Everywhere. I partnered with Silverbackpacker and HOPE Incorporated to make the Travel with a Purpose in Tawi-Tawi possible.

Festival No More

A week before our trip, I tried to get in touch with Ms.Marikit, Tawi Tawi tourism officer to ask for their suggested itinerary. I received a sad news that the Kamahardikaan festival. It will be held in Mapun, an island which is a 16 hour ferry ride away from the Tawi Tawi center- Bongao. She also advised that everyone from the tourism will be in Mapun for the festival. I started to lose hope as I really wanted to take part of the festival. Me and Dave will only be in Tawi-Tawi for 2 days and 2 nights. We are pressed of time and going to Mapun will not be possible.

I decided that I’ll go with the plan and will still visit Tawi-Tawi. Witnessing and taking part of the festival would be plus but not necessary. And besides Tawi Tawi is my 2016 ultimate travel destination.

Safety and Security

When I booked my flight in March, I was aware of the situation in the ARMM specifically the Sulu. The province is known as the battleground between the Philippine military and the terror group Abu Sayaff. Tawi Tawi being near to Sulu did not bother me as there have been a couple of travel bloggers who stepped on the province. All of them were able to tour the province safely and securely. Though there are only a few information about travelling and touring Tawi Tawi, I still did my research. With all the available articles and videos about touring Tawi Tawi, I concluded that it is safe to visit the province.

I also prepared for my Tawi Tawi tour by growing my beard and mustache and tried to be under the sun as much as possible to get my skin tan. I know that I’ll blend in with the locals and will not look of high value.

Come September, encounters of the military with the Abu Sayaff were all over the news. Since we do not have contacts from the Tawi Tawi tourism office as the entire team will be in Mapun. I have to admit that I started to feel worried because I’ll be traveling with Dave, a foreigner who is likely a target of the terror group. Not until Ritz, the founder of HOPE Incorporated informed me that she will be coordinating with the Philippine Marines for our security during our visit in Zamboanga and Tawi-Tawi.

accommodation
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1 Day in the Philippines’ City of Love – Iloilo City

Posted on November 20, 2016November 24, 2016by One Armed Wanderer

Pegged as the Philippines’ City of Love, Iloilo City is the capital city of Iloilo province in Panay Island situated in Western Visayas. Iloilo City is one of Visayas’ major tourist destination due to its rich heritage and not to mention being the home of the warm and romantic Ilonggos. The city is also highly urbanized and serves as a center of trade and commerce in Western Visayas region. Thus, apart from its delicious cuisines, old churches and historical buildings, Iloilo City has a wide array of hotels and accommodations for business travelers and backpackers alike. If you’re planning to visit the city, check out booking sites like Traveloka that allow you to choose the best deals and check out reviews.

View of Iloilo from Horizon Cafe — View of Iloilo city from Injap Tower Hotel

During my first visit in Western Visayas, I took a 2GO ferry trip from Batangas to Caticlan. My initial plan was to visit Aklan first before Roxas City and Iloilo City. When the ferry docked in Caticlan port, there was a passenger van route to Iloilo City. I hopped in the van and took that 4 hour trip from Caticlan Jetty port to Iloilo City. Having no concrete plans, I did not have any itinerary or even hotel or accommodation to stay once I arrive in Iloilo City.

I arrived at 2:00 AM. The van driver was kind enough to drop me in front of the hotel across SM Iloilo. Since it was already past 2:00 AM, after realizing that the check-out time was at 12:00 noon, I opted to look for cheaper accommodations in the area. Well, I love spontaneous travelling but I do not fully advise it. It’s fun but it’s still better to plan your travel ahead of time.

Church Hopping

After a long land-sea-land travel from Manila to Iloilo, I woke up late that day. Come noon time, I was excited to visit Miag-Ao church. I have only seen photos of the church on a gallery in National museum and Vigan Museum. I was amazed by its intricate and beautiful architecture.

Molo Church

Molo Mansion

I immediately left the hotel see Miag-Ao. I then realized that it was an hour away from the city center. I proceeded anyway and took a jeepney from the hotel to the municipality of Molo where jeepneys bound to Miag-Ao. I walked in the Molo park and checked-out the Spanish-colonial and heritage site – Molo church. This national landmark features Gothic architecture is also known as the Feminist Church due to the all women statues of saints situated on the aisle pillars. Across the street is the popular Molo Mansion. Built in 1920, this mansion was believed to have hosted Presidents Quezon and Osmeña during their visit in Iloilo city. This once abandoned mansion has now turned into a Philippine souvenir shop.

I then proceeded with my journey to Miag-Ao church. After taking 2 jeepneys from Molo district. I arrived in Miag-Ao church. The church’s Baroque Romanesque architecture and its intricately designed facade make it one of the most beautiful church in the Philippines. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993, Miag-Ao church has become one of Iloilo’s tourist destination.

Tigbauan Church

Guimbal Church

On my way back to Molo district, I couldn’t help myself but to alight the passenger jeepney every time I see a church in the area.

Molo Soup in Molo District

It was already afternoon when I arrived back in Molo district. I asked several locals where I could eat the authentic Pancit Molo. One local informed me to eat at Tita Paz House of Pancit Molo.

Iloilo City Night Tour

I was lucky enough that I have relatives living in Iloilo. Come evening, they invited me for a dinner at Ayala’s Atria Park District, Iloilo’s relatively new lifestyle hub. Atria looks like a typical Ayala lifestyle center in Manila.

Iloilo Convention Center

Dinner at Atria

The old Iloilo Provincial Capitol

After our dinner, they toured me around the city. We visited the modern and state of the art Iloilo Convention center. Located in Mandurriao, this modern architecture was built-in September 2015. Just in time for the Philippine’s APEC 2015 hosting. Next stop was the old Iloilo Provincial Capitol. This Spanish colonial architecture was declared as a National Historical Site by the National Historical Commission in 2010.

Esplanade

Calle Real

We then visited Calle Real which means “Royal Street” in Spanish. Located In the old downtown district, this street is home to the art-deco and luxury American neoclassical era architectures. It is said that the street used to be the area of high-end shopping outlets during the early period of American occupancy in the Philippines. We also visited what locals call as Esplanade. This Iloilo river esplanade is a popular destination among Ilonggos and tourists alike.

Solo Travels
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- Travels

3 myths about solo travelers and solo traveling

Posted on October 12, 2016October 18, 2016by One Armed Wanderer

Do you know someone who travels solo? Now is the time to debunk the three most common myths about solo travelers and solo traveling:

1. Solo travelers travel for soul searching

I am placing this on top of my list as people think that solo travelers are lost souls that need to find themselves by traveling alone. This may be true for first time solo travelers, but not for people who have traveled alone a couple times. In fact, solo travelers have already found their passion – to travel and explore.

If you know someone who often travel solo, please stop asking them if they will go on a soul searching on their next trip. 🙂

2. Solo travelers are rich and solo traveling is expensive

People often think that traveling is a luxury that only those who are financially blessed can afford. Perhaps, this is due to us being exposed to the media promoting luxury travels. Unfortunately, budget travel destinations are not featured in TV adverts, magazines and billboards. This leave people clueless about the idea “budget travelling”.

People usually think that solo travelers are rich. Traveling solo is expensive is definitely a myth! Traveling definitely require money but solo travelers know how to budget and save as much as they can before and during traveling.

People always ask me where I get the money for travel. Except for the financially free, like you, I also work for money. I have a 9 to 5 file and rank job and is only free during weekends. Since I started solo traveling in 2015, I learned to be more frugal. I rarely buy clothes and promised myself not to buy expensive perfumes and gadgets (these were my guilty pleasures way back). I was able to change my mindset and little by little get used to a simpler and frugal lifestyle. Every time I feel discomfort, I always think of my next solo trip as my motivation. Compared to material possessions, the new travel experiences and their memories last anyways.

If you can’t afford staying in a 5 star beach resort, there will always be an alternative. During my Davao trip, since an overnight stay at Pearl Farm beach resort is way out of my budget. I chose to visit Gumasa in Sarangani instead. It was a long travel from Davao but visiting Gumasa which is dubbed as the little Boracay of Mindanao was worth it!

Booked this Tawi-Tawi flight for only 499 Pesos! ✈️ Thank you @cebupacificair! The southern frontier of the Philippines is such a beautiful and extraordinary place!

A photo posted by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on Oct 7, 2016 at 3:06am PDT

3. Solo travelers and Solo traveling is sad and boring

People think that solo travelers are sad people and solo traveling is boring. Traveling with your family or friends is fun but there are always restrictions when you go on a trip with a group. Solo travelers enjoy the freedom of decision making. When traveling alone, you are your own guide, you travel at your own pace and you decide on your itinerary. These things make traveling more fun and exciting!

Nothing beats the excitement and adventure of traveling solo in an unfamiliar place where no one knows you. You get to discover the place you are visiting, learn their culture and more importantly you get to know the locals and gain new friends. There is one common thing in all places I’ve traveled solo, locals usually get surprised and upon realizing that I was traveling alone. Being a solo traveler, people get curious at you and you end up having a good conversation with a stranger and a possible lifelong friend.

During my Vigan trip, I was walking alone in the famous Calle Crisologo when a stranger suddenly approached me. He along with his friends invited me for a lunch. While inside the van to Lake Sebu in South Cotabato, I befriended locals right before setting my foot in Lake Sebu. While on the bus to Ifugao, I befriended a Spanish solo traveler and became my Ifugao travel buddy. When I travelled to Tawi-Tawi, I gained friends from the military which also served as our security escort while touring the province.

Spent the entire day hiking and exploring #banaue with this beautiful and very nice lady from Spain.

A photo posted by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on Apr 4, 2015 at 3:47am PDT

To conclude, solo traveling is not for everyone but I would highly recommend it. The next time you see a solo traveler, be happy for that person as he is for sure enjoying and having a time of his life.

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Metro Manila
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- Solo Travels
- Travels

Venice in Manila: Venice Grand Canal Mckinley Hill Taguig

Posted on July 17, 2016June 24, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Located in the 50-hectare Venice Piazza under the development of Megaworld Corporation, The Grand Canal Mall’s Venice Grand Canal is fast becoming tourist hotspot in Taguig City. Inspired by Italy’s Venice Canal and Macau’s Venetian Grand Canal, wandering around the mall will make you feel you are in Venice or in Venetian Macau.

The Venice Grand Canal is the center of attraction among the tourists in The Grand Canal Mall. Due to its uniqueness and picturesque views, you will see countless visitors taking selfies and groupies by the canal. For first time visitors like me, it was such a delight to see the beautiful architecture resembling that of Venice. Being a mall, there is no entrance fee to see and enjoy the beautiful Venice Grand Canal.

The mall itself is yet to be completed. As of this writing, there are still many shops and stalls that are yet to open. Nonetheless, there is already a good number of restaurants in the mall, most of which are high-end and a bit pricey for budget travelers.

Restaurants, fastfoods and shops at The Grand Canal Mall

7 Soles
Alab
Almon Marina
Barenaked
Bench
Bose london
Boulangerrie22
Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
Buddy’s
Burger king
Cafe Mary Grace
Cafe Seolhwa
Caramia
Chiara’s Gelateria
Churreria La Lola
Coffee Bean Tea and Leaf
Comfort Tuesday
Cotton candy
Cuesina
Deli cieux
Easysoft
Elements
Empire bar
Erb and chet
Foresight
Galo
Gran caffè
Grand Cafe Lavena
Hearts arrows
Hokkaido Takoyaki
Jollibbee
KFC
Kusè
Little Manila
Man hann (opening soon)
Mati’s Meat and Bread
Milk Cow
Mitsuyado sei-men
Mu thai
Mumuso
Munch roasts and salads
My Thai Kitchen
Nacho Bimby
New Bombay Royal (opening soon)
Office warehouse
Oppo
Pepper Luch Express
Pho hoa
Pie Face
Ponte Rialto restorabte italiano
Ramen Kuroda
Rice and Dough
Rice Paper
S & R Pizza
Sbarro
Serenetea
Holland Tulips
Shakey’s
Shoe salon
Skin station
Sky castle
Starbucks Coffee
Sunglass Haven to
Sweet bites
TGI Fridays
Tgi fridays
The Meatball Revolution
The Travel Club
Toni & Sergio
Toy town
UCC
Watsons to o
Wok2go
World balance
Yellow Cab Pizza

Gondolas at The Venice Grand Canal

Just like that of Venice in Italy and Venetian in Macau, the Venice Grand Canal offers gondola ride that will cruise the entire stretch of the canal. The gondola ride costs 500 Php per person. This may be a bit pricey but seeing the mall’s architecture from the canal’s perspective must be a different experience. Gondola ride only operates during weekends from noon time until the mall closes at 10:00 PM.

Interestingly enough, to make your Venice Grand Canal gondola ride experience memorable, boat paddlers wear the traditional “gondolier clothing”. While watching gondolas cruising the canal, we have also witnessed one boat paddler singing a classical Italian song to his passengers.

How to get to Venice Grand Canal

Getting to McKinley Hill particularly the Venice Grand Canal by commute may be a bit difficult. Visit this link for the complete instructions on how to get to McKinley Hill.

Tip: Visit the Venice Grand Canal without any hassles. Enjoy 100 Pesos off on your first 2 Uber rides! Just use the promo code edp1000ue to avail the discount when you sign up here.

Hotels Near Venice Grand Canal

There are a couple of hotels nearby Venice Grand Canal. You may stay choose from Seda Hotel, Ascott or F1 Hotel Manila. (Read my full review of F1 Hotel Manila).

Overall, we enjoyed our quick visit to The Venice Grand Canal in McKinley. The place is unique and is new to Filipinos who have never visited Venice or Macau. Kudos to Megaworld Corporation for bringing a taste of Venice in Manila.

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Davao
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- Solo Travels

Philippine Eagle Center in Davao City

Posted on June 19, 2016December 26, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Apart from being the 4th safest city in the world, Davao is also known as the home the Philippine Eagle Center. The center is the conservation breeding facility of the Philippine Eagle foundation. It is home to a total 35 Philippine Eagles, 18 of which are bred in captivity.

Since it was my flight back to Manila in the evening, I left Iron Inn Lodge early to see the Philippine Eagles up close. I was too excited as seeing the national bird of our country is one among my Philippine travel bucket list. On my way to the center, I suddenly remembered the owl in Residence Inn Zoo Tagaytay as it looked so surreal to me. That owl in fact made me decide that my next trip will be in Davao to see the Philippine Eagles.

Philippine Eagle Center Location

The center is located situated in the foothills of Mt.Apo in the municipality Malagos, Baguio District, Davao City. Please see my separate post on how to get to Philippine Eagle Center.

Philippine Eagle center philippines — Top: Malagos Watershed Reservation, Bottom: Entrance to the Philippine Eagle Conservation Center

After an hour commute from Davao city proper to Malagos, I arrived in the Malagos Watershed Reservation. I paid 5 Pesos to enter the park which I later learned that the proceeds is for the Davao City Water District, a local government unit of Davao responsible for conserving the Malagos Watershed.

As I entered the park, it seemed that I was the only tourist in the area. A number of souvenir shops on the left side near the entrance were just starting to open. I continued walking wondering where the Philippine Eagles were. I soon realized that I was not in the actual Philippine Eagle Center, I was in the Malagos Watershed Reservation where the Philippine Eagle Center is situated.

Tip: The habal-habal will drop you off at the Malagos Watershed Reservation. Pay the 5 Php entrance fee and proceed to the right side of the park where the Philippine Eagle Center is located.

Since I was too early for the 8 AM opening of the center, I waited for about 10 minutes before the clerk opens the ticketing booth. I paid the entrance fee and was officially the first visitor of the mighty Philippine Eagles that day!

Philippine Eagle Center Entrance Fee

Adult – 150 Php
Youth – 4 to 18 yrs. old – 100 Php

Philippine Eagle Center Operating Hours

Opens daily from 8 AM to 5 PM

I started exploring the Philippine Eagle Conservation Center. Few meters from the entrance is a small board that reads the DO’s and DON’Ts inside the Center.

Guidelines Inside The Philippine Eagle Center

Keep noise level down so as not to disturb or startle the animals
Throw your garbage properly
Wildlife rule: Don’t touch, don’t catch, just watch
Don’t pick flowers or plants
Do not tease the animals – ex. throwing stones, coins and other objects; calling or shouting at them; tapping and rattling their enclosures
Do not feed the animals – They have a special diet. feeding them can lead to poisoning or death.

I was amazed by the rain forest-like environment of the Philippine Eagle Center. There are various species in the center but the stars are undoubtedly the Philippine Eagles.

Philippine Eagle Fighter — Fighter, Philippine Eagle

Quick facts about the Philippine Eagle

also known as the monkey eating eagle with a scientific name of Pithecopaga Jeferyi
local names are Agila, Haring ibon, Kalumbata
average height: 1 meter (3 feet)
weight: 4 to 7 kilograms
wingspan of 2 meters 7 feet
distinct features: massive arch beak, long crown feathers
considered as one of the largest and most powerful eagles in the world
only blue eyed raptor in the world, eyes can see 8 times distant than that of humans
courtship and breeding behavior: breeding season from July to February
monogamous, only has one partner throughout its lifetime
a female eagle lays only one egg every other year
male and female eagles parental responsibility, alternating sitting the egg during incubation and watching the chick while it hatches

Fighter and Mindanao, Philippine Eagle Ambassadors

Interestingly enough, the center has Philippine Eagle Ambassadors namely Fighter and Mindanao. Unlike the other Philippine Eagles in the facility, they are out in the open for visitors to see them up-close. There is a perimeter fence to protect both Fighter and Mindanao so make sure to bring your Camera with zoom lens!

fighter philippine eagle davao — Close up photos of **Fighter**. The staff of the center noticed that I was tirelessly taking photos of Fighter from the perimeter fence. He was so kind that he borrowed my camera to take these wonderful close-up shots of Fighter.

My favorite in the center is Fighter, a Philippine Eagle originally from Davao Oriental. He was rescued, adopted and rehabilitated by the Philippine Eagle Center in 2011 when a ruthless hunter shot him leaving his left-wing amputated. Sadly, he is now incapable of flying and will never be released in the wild again. Fighter’s story is really heartbreaking but despite of his inability to soar, Fighter shows how confident, mighty and strong a Philippine Eagle is.

Philippine Eagle Mindanao — Mindanao, Philippine Eagle

Mindanao is a 15-year-old male Philippine Eagle. He was hatched and bred in the Philippine Eagle Center.

Other Philippine Eagles in the Center are Kalayaan (24-year-old male) and Pag-Asa (29-year-old female) who are currently being matched. There is also Kaibigan (27-year-old female eagle), Maginoo (16-year-old male eagle) and Dakila (11-year-old female eagle). Except for Pag-Asa, all these Philippine Eagles were hatched in the Center.

Apart from the Philippine Eagles, there are various species in the center. I personally liked the cute and innocent looking grass owls.

Bird species philippines — Top Left: Grass Owl; Top Right: Philippine Scops owl; Bottom Left: Brahminy Kite; Bottom Right: Philippine Serpent Eagle

Critically Endangered Philippine Eagle

I must say that I left the Philippine Eagle conservation Center with mixed emotions. I was very happy to see the Philippine Eagles up-close, they were so surreal. It also feels great that there is such an non-profit organization like Philippine Eagle Foundation promoting the welfare of our very own Philippine Eagles. At the same time, I learned that there are only less than 400 pairs of Philippine Eagles left in world, I felt sad that these majestic creatures are now critically endangered. Hunting and deforestation are the threats to their survival. Despite of the laws to protect them, up to this day, Philippine Eagles are still being hunted. With continuous deforestation, the home of the great Philippine Eagle is becoming smaller. Forests are their only home. It is where they live, find food, reproduce and nurture the next generation of Philippine Eagles.

How to get to Philippine Eagle Center

From Davao City proper, take a cab going to Bankerohan Terminal. In my case, cab fare from Ironn Inn Lodge in Ecoland to Bankerohan Terminal is 70 Php.
In Bankerohan Terminal, ride a van going to Calinan. Fare is 40 Php and travel time is around 40 minutes depending on traffic. Just tell the van driver that you are going to Philippine Eagle Center and ask to drop you off to a habal-habal terminal in Calinan.
From Calinan, take a habal-habal to Philippine Eagle Center. Fare is 80 Pesos and travel time is around 15 minutes. I highly suggest to arrange with the habal-habal driver for your return trip to Calinan.

Philippine Eagle Center contact Number: +63 82 3241860

You can help in the conservation of the Philippine Eagle by donating, adopting or volunteering via the Philippine Eagle Foundation.

Visiting Davao City? Book your hotel HERE or HERE.

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Ilocos Sur
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- Solo Travels

13 Things To Do In Vigan Aside From Walking Along Calle Crisologo

Posted on June 18, 2016June 19, 2016by One Armed Wanderer

Vigan City is the capital city of Ilocos Sur and is one among the new 7 wonder cities

of the world. This historic city is also listed as one of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites making it as a must see tourist destination in the Philippines.

Calle Crisologo, also known as Mena Crisologo, is undoubtedly the most popular travel destination in Vigan City. Walking along the street brings you back in the period of Philippine Spanish colonial era. I was amazed that the local government of Vigan was able to maintain and preserve the old houses/structure along this famous street.

If you are travelling to Vigan, aside from walking along the Instagram worthy Crisologo street, here are 13 things you can do in the city:

1. Visit Crisologo Museum

This century old structure is the ancestral home of the Crisologos, a prominent political family inVigan. This home was turned into museum after the assassination of a then congressman Floro Crisologo in 1970.

I was lucky to meet Ms.Remy, daughter of Mr.Floro Crisologo. She welcomes tourists visiting the
museum.

There is no entrance fee but they accept donations for the maintenance of the museum.

2. Explore the city in Kalesa (Karitela)

You will definitely miss half of your Vigan adventure if you will not ride a Kalesa (Karitela). Kalesa is a horse-drawn carriage used during the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines. Up to this day, Kalesas can be seen anywhere in Vigan City.

There is a Kalesa bay/parking area right in front of the capitol. The At 150 Pesos per hour, You can basically tour the entire city in a Kalesa. Coach drivers will bring you to one tourist destination to another.

3 Visit Bantay Bell Tower

Built in 1951, Bantay Bell Tower and the Bantay Church (St. Augustine Church) is actually 10 minutes away from the city proper. One can see the panoramic view of Vigan in this historical tower. I learned from the local that this tower saved Vigan against possible enemies as it used to be the people’s tower during the Spanish and Japanese era.

4. Visit Pagburnayan and Learn How Burnays are Made

Jars made in Vigan are called “Burnay” and visiting the “Pagburnayan” (a place where these jars are made) makes the Vigan trip more interesting. Pagburnayan started during the Spanish precolonial period when Chinese immigrants came to Vigan. Due to the high quality of Burnays, these are also being exported abroad.

I was very lucky to be assisted by one of the potter and had a chance to take a look how Burnays are made, from mixing the clay, molding and cooking the pots.

5. Learn History in Syquia Mansion

According to the tour guide, this mansion was originally the ancestral of home of President Elpidio Quirino’s wife, Dona Alicia Quirino. This well-preserved ancestral home used to be the venue of some of President Elpidio Quirino’s functions during his administration.

The very accommodating and knowledgeable tour guide will let you travel in time when visiting the mansion. When I visited Syquian Mansion, I joined a group of students touring the mansion.

Entrance Fee: 20 Pesos

6. Visit Baluarte ni Chavit Singson

Thank you to the former Ilocos Governor and Baluarte owner Mr.Chavit Singson for opening is property to the public. This must visit place in the city is the home of various animal species from other countries and from the Philippines. Unlike other zoos, there is an area in Baluarte where animals can freely roam around.

An interactive animal show is held every afternoon. There is also a an animal museum which is the newest addition in the 20-hectare property of Mr.Chavit Singson.

Entrance Fee: Free

7. Experience Heritage River Cruise along Mestizo River

This is another Vigan tourist destination that I just discovered during my 2nd day in the city. This 45 minute heritage river cruise will bring tourists to the historical timeline of Vigan. The entire cruise is along the historical Mestizo river where 5 stations are situated. It was very interesting that there is a recorded narrator and music playing during the cruise.

Cruise Fee: 150 Php

My Youtube video of heritage river cruise – Click here

8. Watch the Beautiful Dancing Fountain at Plaza Salcedo

Unknown to many, Vigan’s Plaza Salcedo showcases its dancing fountain every night which usually starts around 7:30 PM and lasts for about 30 minutes. I must admit that I haven’t really witnessed any dancing fountain show, but I was really amazed seeing the extravagant dancing fountain of Plaza Salcedo.

My Youtube video of Plaza Salcedo’s dancing fountain – Click here

9. Watch Vigan’s Traditional Loomweavers

Ilocos region’s traditional woven product is known as abel. These are beautifully handcrafted colorful cloth made of cotton or what they call in Ilocos Sur as “sagut”. The abel industry started during the early Spanish occupation in Ilocos and is still being practiced up to this day. One of the popular abel weaving factories in Vigan is Rowilda’s loomweaving.

10. Visit the old Ilocos Sur Provincial Jail Turned Museum

This centuries old Ilocos Sur provincial jail was also the birthplace of President Elpidio Quirinio. This is probably the newest tourist attraction in Vigan City as it was just opened to the public earlier in 2015. The museum showcases the rich history of Ilocandia.

12. Spend The Night in a Spanish-Filipiniana Themed Hotel

There are numerous hotels in Vigan City most of which are Spanish-Filipiniana themed. During my 4 day and 3 night stay in Vigan, I spent my 2 nights in the beautiful Hotel Felicidad. The hotel is just a block away from Calle Crisologo.

If you are visiting Vigan, especially during weekends, I highly suggest to reserve/book ahead of time as hotels easily gets fully booked. You can book your Vigan hotel here.

13. Experience Vigan locals’ Hospitality and Honesty

Along with Davao City and Iloilo city, I’m definitely placing Vigan on my top 3 friendliest places I’ve been to.

During my first day in Vigan, I was walking along Calle Crisologo when a local suddenly invites me for a merienda. I was really surprised that I was not really expecting that a stranger would invite me to join him and his friends for a merienda. I latter found out that the kind-hearted man owns various businesses along Calle Crisologo.

Later that day, unconsciously dropped my phone and realized that I lost it when I was already riding a Karitela on my way to Bell Tower Church. JR, the Karitela driver, was kind enough to help me call my number and talked to the person who found my phone. Few minutes later, it was returned to me. The guy who found my phone did not ask anything in return.

Davao
...
- Solo Travels

5 Reasons Why Davao City Is a Tourist Friendly Destination

Posted on May 7, 2016May 7, 2016by One Armed Wanderer

With 81 provinces and 7,107 islands, the Philippines is indeed blessed with countless amazing tourist destinations. Davao City is one among the long list of must see places in the Philippines. Located in Mindanao, Davao City is the center of trade and commerce of Davao region and is one of the most progressive cities in the Philippines.

During my short yet memorable DIY tour in Davao City, I could not help but compare Davao City to other tourist destinations in the Philippines. Here are my top 5 reasons why I find Davao city a tourist friendly destination:

1. Davao City Airport is the 6th Most Efficient Airport in The World

In 2015, Francisco Bangoy International Airport or popularly known as Davao City Airport was awarded by Airport Council International (ACI) as the 6th most efficient airport in the world.

ACI is an organization that acts as the voice of the world’s airports and the communities they serve, and promotes professional excellence in airport management and operations.

2. Davao City is the 9th Safest City in the World

In 2015, Davao City was ranked 9th safest city in the world. Being the largest city in the Philippines in terms of land area, with its good governance, Davao has managed become the safest city in the Philippines and eventually the 9th safest city in the world. The peace and order in Davao city is credited to Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

I stayed in a relatively cheap motel with no security guards. The only person manning the front desk is an old lady who owns the place. I was a bit hesitant to check-in until I realized that I was actually in the safest city in the Philippines!

There is no “you always have to look at your back” factor when walking alone in the city, be it during daytime or late at night. Davaoenos and tourists alike can freely walk in the streets without worrying about their security. At night, police mobiles patrol the Davao streets to ensure the city’s peace and order is maintained. I experienced walking alone late at night and felt very secured. Besides the roving police mobiles, the entire city is also equipped with hundreds of CCTV cameras. It is the one and only city in the Philippines that has a command center dedicated for the people’s safety and security (Public Safety and Security Command Center).

3. Davao City Cab Drivers Give Exact Change!

If you are living in Manila, you have surely experienced choosy cab drivers or experienced being charged on top of the metered fare. These kind of disappointing cab drivers are nowhere to be found in Davao City!

If you pay more than the metered fare, a Davao City cab driver will surely hand you the exact change. It is not surprising why Davaoeños still prefer cabs over Uber or Grab as their very own cab drivers also provide superb customer service.

4. Davao City Values Senior Citizens and PWDs

Being a Person with disability (PWD) myself, I rarely use my PWD discount card during my out of town trips. This is to at least help small local businesses in the province that I am visiting.

It was only in Davao I was given a PWD discount without me asking for one. On my way to the Philippine Eagle Conservation Center, I was surprised that the van driver asked me transfer in the front seat – a reserved seat for PWDs and Senior Citizens in jeepneys, vans and buses in Davao City. He also discounted my fare to Malagos, a baranggay where Philippine Eagle Conservation Center is located. During my second day, I made a quick visit at Davao Crocodile Park and was automatically given a PWD discount by the front desk personnel.

5. Davaoeños are Friendly and Disciplined

Along with Iloilo City and Ilocos Sur’s Vigan City, I am putting Davao City on my top 3 list of friendliest places I’ve visited. Everyone in the city was friendly and was willing to help any traveler DIY-ing Davao City. I was able to visit several tourist destinations by merely asking locals for tips and directions. I survived my DIY Davao tour without using google maps!

What is more amazing is the discipline Davaoeños show. In public transportation terminals, people fall in line properly. You will not see a single Davaoeño littering or spitting in the city streets. There are no jaywalkers in Davao as people cross the streets on pedestrian lanes. I have not seen any vehicle beating the red light. Drivers strictly abide the 30 KM/hour speed limit in the Davao City downtown area. At bars, last order of alcoholic drinks is at 1 AM and all convenience stores do not sell alcoholic drinks beyond 2 AM. You will not see any tambays drinking or minors loitering around past 12 AM. Being a no-smoking city, people do not smoke in public places.

Being a solo traveler, I always look forward in seeing beautiful places, befriending locals, and learning different cultures. But traveling alone entails danger. Most of the time, you will just have to use common sense to secure yourself. Like you, I had a share of not so good experiences in some places I visited (overpriced fares for tourists, security concerns). Just like my previous trips, I flew to Davao city thinking that it was like any other cities I’ve visited. I was wrong. I went back to Manila realizing that it is possible to live in a safe and progressive city with law-abiding citizens secured by an exemplary leadership.

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