Travels

Seaside Dampa Macapagal – Where to eat seafood in Manila

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer

Philippines is undoubtedly a must visit country for its countless beautiful islands with white sand beaches, waterfalls and welcoming and hospitable people. Being an archipelago, Philippines is also rich in marine life. Thus, backpacking the Philippines will not be complete if you will not try to eat delicious seafood. Roxas City in Capiz province is the country’s seafood capital. (Related: Where to eat in Roxas City, Seafood Capital of the Philippines) If you are travelling to Manila, the country’s capital city, You need not to visit Roxas City to enjoy delicious seafood. There is Seaside Dampa Macapagal, a seafood haven right in Manila to fulfill your seafood gastronomic adventures.

Where to eat seafood in Manila?

Seaside Dampa Macapagal is probably the largest seafood place in Manila. It is perfectly situated as it is near to various hotels, shopping malls and casinos. Seafood Dampa Macapagal is also few minute taxi or uber ride away from the Manila Airport (Ninoy Aquino International Airpbalatort).  If you are bringing your car, there is a spacious parking area.  Parking fee is 20 Pesos.

TIP: If you don’t have a car, it is easier to go to Seaside Dampa Macapagal if you will take uber from any point in Manila. I’m giving you 200 Php off on your first two rides.  Just use promo code ‘edp1000ue‘ when you sign up HERE.

Seaside Dampa Macapagal Location Map

 

Shop for fresh seafood

Market at Dampa Macapagal
Market at dampa macapagal

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Interestingly enough, dining in Seaside Dampa Macapagal is more exciting as you get to shop and choose among the fresh seafood in the palengke or wet market. There is a number of stalls in the market selling fresh sea foods from small shells, shrimps, crabs, lobsters and many more. Just make sure to use your haggling skills as prices may be quite expensive compared to a typical wet market in the country. Nonetheless, you can get discounts from the sellers if you practice your haggling skills.

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Jen and I visited the place for the second time. I let Jen do the haggling and we were able to buy a kilo of shrimps for 550 Pesos and a kilo of crabs for 650 Pesos. Note that the price ranges based from the price of the seafood. The bigger the seafood, the more expensive.

Find a restaurant

Once done shopping for fresh sea foods in the wet market, the next step would be finding the restaurant to cook the seafood. There is a number of restaurants in Seaside Dampa Macapagal, all of which basically offer almost the same prices for the ‘paluto’ of sea foods. Paluto means to ask someone to cook for you. Basically, you shop for seafood and you go to a restaurant and ask them to cook the seafood depending on the dish you like based on their menu.

List of restaurants in Seaside Dampa Macapagal

There are various restaurants in Seaside Dampa Macapagal. Some even have karaoke which are perfect for family gatherings or birthday celebrations.

  • Aling Marya
  • Claire dela fuente
  • Cyrill grilled restaurant
  • Huey ying
  • Super wok
  • Papa dann’s grill
  • Seazars seafood paluto
  • Kayming
  • Ocean bay
  • Youjie restaurant
  • Hongkong Mastercook
  • Cuzina

Since it was our second time in Seaside Dampa Macapagal, after buying sea foods, we knew which restaurant to go – Hongkong Mastercook restaurant. We enjoyed our first experience of ‘paluto’ and dining in the restaurant.

The restaurant is spacious and probably the biggest in Seaside Dampa Macapagal. The service is good too! Their staff from the security guard to waiters are very courteous. Food is served fast and the dishes on their menu are very delicious. Patrons are mostly Chinese.

Hongkong Mastercook seafood paluto restaurant
Hongkong Mastercook seafood paluto restaurant

We checked the menu and instructed the restaurant’s staff of the dish we wanted for the seafood. We fell in love with shrimp and crab in red egg sauce the first time we dined in the restaurant. Jen and I asked the staff to cook 1/2 kilo of buttered shrimps, 1/2 kilo of tempura and a kilo of crabs in red salted egg sauce.

Menu of Hongkong Mastercook seafood paluto restaurant

Except for short order, note that the prices in the menu are only for the ‘paluto’ and are exclusive of seafood.

Crabs in salted egg sauce
Crabs in salted egg sauce

 

buttered shrimps
buttered shrimps

 

tempura, buttered shrimps, crabs in salted egg sauce
tempura, buttered shrimps, crabs in salted egg sauce

Basically, you will just order rice and drinks after giving instructions on the dishes you want for the seafood you bought in the wet market. We ordered a platter of rice, bottomless blue lemonade and mango juice. After few minutes, the drinks and the shrimps and crab in red egg sauce were served. The tempura was served 15 minutes later. We had no issue with the delay in tempura as the cooks had to remove the shell of the shrimps.

Budget?

Dining in Seaside Dampa Macapagal can be a bit pricey if you’re a couple or if you’re dining alone. We spent 2,321 for a sumptuous seafood meal. For the price, the servings were actually good for 4 to 6 persons. We actually had to take-out the leftovers as we barely consumed half of seafood we ordered. Here’s the breakdown of our expenses when we visited Seaside Dampa Macapagal:

seafood (wet market)

  • shrimps – 550 (1 kilo)
  • crabs – 650 (1 kilo)

Paluto (in Hongkong mastercook restaurant)

  • buttered shrimps – 175
  • crabs in salted egg sauce – 328
  • tempura – 198

Others (in Hongkong mastercook restaurant)

  • rice platter – 250
  • lemonade -75
  • mango juice – 95

Total: 2,321 Pesos ($46)

Related read: Where to eat cheap seafood in Boracay

Overall, if you are a seafood lover travelling to Manila, I would highly recommend Seaside Dampa Macapagal. Being a local, I could not think of any place to fulfill my seafood gastronomic needs aside from Seaside Dampa Macapagal. The experience of shopping for seafood and having them cooked on the dish you prefer is something unique and memorable!

Visiting Manila, Philippines? Book your affordable hotel HERE.

 

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

Posted on by 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.

 

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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

Oldest mosque in the Philippines
Facade
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

Inside Sheik Makhdum Mosque
Inside Sheik Makhdum Mosque
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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How to get to Siquijor from Manila, Dumaguete, Bacolod or Iloilo

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
Siquijor baywalk boulevard

Being an archipelago, The Philippines is composed of 1707 beautiful islands. One of which is the breathtaking island of Siquijor. If you are planning to travel to Siquijor, note that there are no direct plane flight to the island.  Here are the directions on how to get to to the  island if you are coming from Manila, Dumaguete, Bacolod or Iloilo:

Siquijor baywalk boulevard
Siquijor Boulevard

How to get to Siquijor Island from Manila or Dumaguete 

Manila to Dumaguete

Geographically, the nearest island to Siquijor is Dumaguete. Book a flight from NAIA (Manila Airport) to Dumaguete. Flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Dumaguete Airport to Dumaguete Port

From Dumaguete airport, ride a tricycle or a motorbike (habal-habal) going to Dumaguete Port. Note that there are no standard tariff rates for tricycles in Dumaguete. Make sure to ask the driver first how much would be the fare from the airport to the port. In our case, we paid 120 Pesos to the tricycle driver. Travel time from Dumaguete airport to port is approximately 20 minutes.

Dumaguete Port to Siquijor

In Dumaguete port, there are a number of ferries, fast crafts and outriggers going to Siquijor. Travel time is 45 minutes to 2 hours.  Oceanjet fast craft is the fastest ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor. If you love slow travel, ride large cargo ferries or boats.

Tip: If you have motion sickness, avoid smaller ferries or boats as the sea can be rough.

Dumaguete to Siquijor Ferries

Note that the below ferry schedules and fares are based on what we have gathered in Dumaguete port. In our case, we embarked in GL Express Ferry at 8:30 AM and arrived in Siquijor at 9:00 AM.

Oceanjet

Oceanjet Dumaguete Siquijor

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Travel time 45 minutes

Oceanjet Schedule (Departure from Dumaguete)

  • 12:30 PM
  • 8:30 PM

Oceanject Fare

  • OpenAir/Tourist Class 210 Php
  • Business Class 360 Php

Montenegro Lines (Large Cargo Ferry)

Montenegro Lines Dumaguete - Siquijor trip
Montenegro Lines Dumaguete – Siquijor trip

Travel time 1 hr 30 mins

Montenegro Lines Schedule (Departure from Dumaguete)

  • 7:00 AM
  • 10:30 AM
  • 2:00 PM

Montenegro Lines Fare (Dumaguete to Siquijor, Siquijor)

  • Regular fare 130 Php
  • Student fare 111 Php
  • Senior Citizen fare 93 Php

Montenegro Lines Fare (Dumaguete to Larena, Siquijor)

  • Regular fare 170 php
  • Student fare 145 php
  • Senior citizen fate 121 Php

Aleson Shipping Lines  (Large Cargo Ferry)

Travel time 1 hour and 30 mins

Aleson Schedule (Departure from Dumaguete)

  • 8:30am
  • 10:30am
  • 3:30pm
  • 6:00pm

Aleson Shipping Lines Fare

  • Regular 120 Php
  • Student 120 Php
  • Seniot citizen 120 Php
  • Minor 60 Php

GL Express Ferry

Travel time 1 hr

GL Express Ferry Schedule (Departure from Dumaguete)

  • 8:00 AM
  • 4:00 PM

GL Express 2 Fast Ferry

Travel time 50 mins

GL Express Fast Ferry Schedule (Departure from Dumaguete)

  • 10:00 AM
  • 4:00 PM

Jay Lann (Open Air)

Travel time 1 hour and 15 mins.

Jay Lann Schedule (Departure from Dumaguete)

  • 5:45 AM
  • 12:00 PM

Jay Lann Boat

Trave time 1 hour and 45 mins.

Jay Lann Boat Schedule (Departure from Dumaguete)

  • 1:45 PM

 Jaziel (Outrigger)

Jaziel Schedule (Departure from Dumaguete)

  • 10:00 AM
  • 2:15 PM

How to get to Siguijor Island from Iloilo or Bacolod

If you are coming from Iloilo, you will have to pass Bacolod and Dumaguete to reach Siquijor.

Iloilo City to Iloilo port

Weesam Express Iloilo Bacolod route
Weesam Express Iloilo Bacolod route

From Iloilo City, take a taxi to Iloilo river wharf. From there, ride a ferry going to Bacolod. For ferry lines, schedules and fares from Iloilo to Bacolod, read How to get to Bacolod from Iloilo.

Bacolod port to Ceres Bus Terminal

In Bacolod port, ride a jeepney bound to Silay City. Just inform the driver to drop you off the Ceres Bus terminal. Note that there ate two Ceres terminals in Bacolod, Ceres North and South. The former is nearer to the Bacolod port.

From Ceres bus terminal, take a bus bound to Dumaguete. Travel time is 6 to 7 hours. Take the air-conditioned buses as these are faster compared to the ordinary ones.  

Once you reach Dumaguete City,  take a tricycle or habal-habal to Dumaguete port. Please see Dumaguete Port to Siquijor section in the first part of this article for the completed directions.

Related: Cheapest Siquijor tour package

Book an affordable Siquijor resort/accommodation HERE.


Cheapest Siquijor tour package

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
siquijor philippine falls

Siquijor Island is located in the Central Visayan region of the Philippines. Next to Camiguin and Batanes, Siquijor is the 3rd smallest province in the country. This must visit province is one among the underrated tourist destination among locals but is becoming popular among foreign tourists and travelers.

Tip: If you are visiting Siquijor island or any part of the Philippines, you may create or plan your very own customized trip. Find, discover and enjoy the best travel deals and services in the Philippines with the help and expertise of Philippine Travel Packages. This site offers a wide array pre-made and customizable Philippine travel packages! Discover more at http://www.philippinestravelpackage.com/siquijor.

Cheapest Siquijor tour package

If you are planning to visit Siquijor island, there are various tour packages available online. However, these Siquijor tour packages are quite expensive. Fortunately, there are cheaper ways to enjoy the breathtaking Siquijor. Instead of availing expensive tour packages, go directly to the island and arrange a tour package to the Siquijor tourism accredited tour guides/tricycle drivers.

In Siquijor port, there is a provincial tourism office reception area. Just ask the tourism officer for a copy of Siquijor map, list of accommodations and list of standard transportation tariff rates and tours. They provide these handouts for free. These will be helpful during your stay in Siquijor most especially if you decide to DIY tour the island.

There are tourism office accredited tricycle and van drivers waiting in the port. They usually approach visitors and offer the tour. Just make sure that you are dealing with the tourism accredited drivers. These guys are in Siquijor tourism uniform. If you are a solo traveler or a couple, a tricycle tour will do. For larger groups, touring Siquijor on a van is recommended.

Siquijor tour package rates

Here are the Siquijor Provincial Tourism Office Accredited tour package rates:

Tricycle

  • Island tour– 1,000 Php
  • Mountain tour – 1,200 Php

Van

  • Coastal Tour – 2500 Php
  • Mountain Tour – 3,000 Php
  • coastal/mountain tour – 3,500 Php

June, one of the tourism accredited tricycle drivers/tour guide approached us. He briefed us about the  1,000 Php tour package. The tour will bring us to popular Siquijor tourist spots and attractions. Note though that tricycle parking fees for each tourist spot are excluded from the tour package rate.

Tricycle island tour itinerary

The 1,000 Php Siquijor island tour via tricycle will bring you to the following Siquijor tourist attractions:

St. Francis of Assisi Church

This is the first stop of the tricycle island tour. St. Francis of Assisi church is actually few meters away from Siquijor port. This is probably the most popular landmark in Siquijor as it serves as a backdrop to the “Welcome to Siquijor” sign.

Hello Siquijor! ?? 

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Capilay Spring Park 

Next stop is the Capilay Spring Park. Located in San Juan, Siquijor, this natural spring fed swimming pool is popular among locals. Capilay Spring Park has no entrance free.

Capilay Spring Park
Capilay Spring Park

Century old balete tree and fish foot spa

Located in San Juan, Siquijor, the century old tree is said to be the oldest and the biggest tree in the island. Just in front of the tree is a cold spring. Interestingly enough, the cold spring also serves as a fish spa. Surprisingly, they have this huge fishes that will surely tickle and nibble your feet. Environmental fee is 5 Php.

San Isidro Labradaor Church

Located in Lazi, Siquijor, this century old church was built by the Augustinian recollects in the latter part of 19th century.

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Lazi Convent

Across the San Isidro Labrador church is the Lazi Convent. Completed and blessed in 1891, Lazi convent is one of the biggest and oldest convent in the Philippines. This convent was declared as one of the historical landmarks of the Philippines in 1970’s. Unfortunately, the convent is under renovation when we visited Lazi.

Cambugahay falls

 Cambugahay falls is a 3 tiered waterfalls in Lazi, Siquijor. There is no entrance fee to enjoy this breathtaking Siquijor attraction. Just make sure to pay 20 Php parking fee for your tricycle driver/guide.

Breathtaking Cambugahay falls

Salagdoong Molave man-made Forrest

On the way to Salagdoong beach, you will pass by a man-made forest with Molave trees.

Salagdoong beach

Located in Maria, Siquijor, Salagdoong beach is popular among locals. Entrance fee is 15 Php and environmental fee is 10 Php.

Salagdoong Beach, Siquijor 

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Overall, we enjoyed our tricycle Siquijor island tour. Given the distance of each tourist attraction and the honesty and kindness of June – our tricycle driver/tour guide,  1,000 Php is fairly priced and indeed the cheapest Siquijor tour package there is!

Book your affordable Siquijor resort/accommodation HERE!


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Hotel in Bonifacio Global City: F1 Hotel Manila

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
F1 Hotel Manila

F1 Hotel Manila is the very first premier hotel in Bonifacio Global City or popularly known as BGC – a Philippine leisure, lifestyle and business hub situated in Taguig City.  F1 Hotel Manila is located along the 32nd Street of Bonifacio Global City and is just a walking distance from various corporate offices, shopping malls, banks and a world-class hospital.

F1 Hotel Manila Facade
F1 Hotel Manila Facade

Since I will not be able to travel on Christmas, Jen and I decided to book a hotel for a holiday staycation instead. Since we did not want to go farther for our staycation, we considered hotels in BGC which is just a 10 minute drive from home. After comparing prices, we decided to book a room at F1 Hotel Manila.

Lobby

We arrived at F1 Hotel Manila at around 3:00 PM. The hotel’s parking was full, perhaps due to the holiday season where many guests visit F1 Hotel for their sumptuous lunch and dinner buffets.  We had to temporarily park at Parkade 3 and soon transferred to the hotel’s parking later that day.

I should say that F1 Hotel Manila’s entrance is not like any other expensive hotels in Bonifacio Global City. It was simple yet modern.  We approached the concierge at the hotel’s ground floor and we were courteously informed that the hotel lobby is on the 5th level.

Concierge at the ground level
Elevator area at the ground level
Lobby at the 5th level

The lobby in the 5th level was simple and modern. The check-in process was a breeze. Special thanks to F1 Hotel Manila’s front desk officer Joanne! Unlike in other hotels, I was surprised that we were given 2 key cards for our room.  Joanne also provided a personalized WiFi password for our internet needs throughout out stay. Just make sure to prepare your credit card or 3,000 Php cash for the hotel’s security deposit. Don’t worry as this is refundable after check-out.

F1 Hotel Manila Deluxe Room

We stayed at room 702 which is at the end of the hallway and appears to be corner unit. As we entered the room, there was an element of surprise as there is a mini hallway leading to the main room area. I should say that I was really surprised with the interiors! The room is stylish and has this executive and businessman vibe. The grays, reds and browns perfectly complement each other resulting to a modern and classy appeal of the room.

mini living room area
F1 Hotel Manila

The king size bed and pillows were very comfortable. Pillow cases, linens and comforter were of high quality and at par with that of 5-star hotels in the metro. I personally love the soft gray headboard.

Executive feel

There is a life-size gray wooden dresser that come with safety box, bathrobe, iron and even fire extinguisher. Beside the dresser are the complimentary tea, coffee and creamer sachets along with complimentary water bottles. Beneath is a personal refrigerator.  Across the dresser is a mini living area with a high-end sofa and table.

work area
toilet & bath

The Deluxe room also comes with a 32 inch flat screen cable TV placed in a long desk paired with a comfortable stylish chair. The desk also serves as a work area in the room. On the other end of the desk is a stylish lamp, a welcome letter from F1 Hotel Manila, F1 Hotel Manila notepad and a booklet containing hotel’s menu and offerings.

The toilet and bath were also a surprise! The sink and the toilet are adjacent to one another. F1 Hotel Manila branded toiletries such as soaps, shampoo, conditioner, cotton buds, toothbrush, toothpaste and even a comb are provided. Just above the sink is a long mirror that covers the entire length of the bathroom. The shower area is separated by a glass door. The rainfall shower is my favorite!

Aside from the cozy and upscale ambiance, the floor to ceiling glass window sets this F1 Hotel Room apart from other upscale hotels I have been to. Despite of this, the room does not get hot during daytime due to the floor to ceiling curtains and not to mention the strategic location of its air-conditioning unit.

F1 Hotel Manila Published Room Rates

  • Deluxe Room – 10,000 Php a night

1 King-Size Bed
36-38.89 Sqm

  • City Suite – 11, 200 Php a night

2 Double-Size Bed
39-40 Sqm

  • Fort Suite – 13,600 Php a night

1 King-Size Bed
42.15-43.82 sqm

Tip: We booked a Deluxe Room and only paid 4,200 Php instead of the 10,000 Php published rate. Get huge discounts if you book your F1 Hotel Manila room HERE.

F1 Hotel Manila Facilities, Amenities and Services

  • F All Day Dining Restaurant – Located on the hotel’s 3rd level, F All Day Dining Restaurant serves contemporary Filipino and international lunch and dinner buffet.
F All Day Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Yummy breads at F All Day restaurant

Since our booking includes breakfast, we had our breakfast buffet at F1 All Day Dining Restaurant. Breakfast buffet is only served from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

  • Swimming pools – Located in the 3rd level, F1 Hotel Manila has three pools – a kiddie pool, family pool and a lap pool. These pools are open daily from 7:00 AM until 8:00 PM.
One of the 3 pools in F1 Hotel
Jen enjoying the cabana
  • Fitness Center – If you are a regular gym goer, do need to worry about missing your daily gym regimen. F1 Hotel Manila has a fitness center fully equipped with treadmills, weights and many other gym equipment.  The gym is located in 3rd level mezzanine and is open 24/7.
  • Spa and Wellness – To those who want to simply relax, F1 Hotel Manila offers a selection of signature and traditional massage services. The Spa and Wellness is located in 3rd level mezzanine and open from 1 PM to 5 AM during weekdays and 10 PM to 5 PM on weekends.

Other Facilities and Services

  • Complimentary Shuttle Service – Shuttle service going around Bonifacio Global City is available for in-house guests. Prior reservation is needed and maximum of 10 passengers per trip.
  • Airport transfers – Available upon request. Minimum rate of 1,500 for a sedan car and 2,200 Php for a van per way.
  • Make-Up Room – F1 Hotel Manila offers 1 complimentary make-up room service per day. To avail the service, simply tap to activate the make-up room icon near your room’s door. High-tech!
  • Concierge Services
  • Meetings and Events Facilities
  • 4 level car park
  • Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas
  • 24-hour Guest Services
  • 24 hour security
  • In-Room Dining
  • Laundry & Valet Service
  • Babysitting Services

Overall, we enjoyed our F1 Hotel Manila staycation. The hotel did not disappoint. The hotel staff, from the security guards to front desks are very welcoming and accommodating. The room was very stylish, classy and cozy. The breakfast buffet was good. I would highly recommend this hotel not just for a staycation but also for business and corporate travelers who are visiting Bonifacio Global City.

Discounted F1 Hotel Manila Rooms  HERE

F1 Hotel Manila
Address: 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City
Contact Number: 908.7888 / 928.9888
Email us at: [email protected]

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How my Tawi Tawi Trip was Made Possible

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
Tawi Tawi Philippine Marine Escorts

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

 

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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
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

Tawi Tawi Philippine Marine Escorts
With our security during our 2 days and 2 nights stay in Tawi-Tawi. Thank you Philippine Marines!

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.

 

 

 

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

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
iloilo convention center

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.

Miagao church

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

pancit-molo-iloilo

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.

 

Cheap Hotels in Roxas City: Wallabies Hotel and Novotel

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
facade of Wallabies hotel Capiz

Since we planned to take the Roxas City route to Islas de Gigantes, one of our concerns was to find the cheapest hotel there is in Roxas City where we will stay overnight before heading to Gigantes Islands in Iloilo. During my first visit in Roxas City, I stayed in relatively cheap accommodations. I stayed at Roxas President’s Inn Hotel at 2,217.00 Php for two nights and Premierre Inn motel at 700 Php a night. Since it was already my second time to visit Roxas, I wanted to try other cheap hotels or accommodations. We made a quick research while we were on the Roxas City airport. We found the rates of Wallabies Hotel and Novotel in Roxas City a good deal for budget travelers and backpackers.

Cheap hotels in Roxas City Capiz

Wallabies Hotel Roxas City

Wallabies Hotel is one among the budget friendly and cheap hotels in the seafood Capital of the Philippines. Located along Washington St. Corner Zamora St., Wallabies hotel is just few minute tricycle ride from Roxas City airport and is roughly 5 minute walk from the Roxas City center where restaurants and plaza are located.

 

Facade
Reception
Lobby/Dining Area

 

Wallabies Hotel Rates

Regular Room (Queen Sized Bed) – 699.00 Php
Premier Room – (2 single bed) – 799.00 Php
Deluxe Room (3 single bed) – 899.00 Php
Extra Bed/Person – 150.00 Php

 

 

Our room was a Regular Room at only 699.00 Pesos. Surprisingly, the room was very clean and looks relatively new. The room comes with a very small LCD TV, small dresser, 2 chairs and a mini table mounted beneath the TV.  I felt like the 2 pillows were too small for the queen sized bed. Nonetheless, the bed was very comfortable considering the affordable price of this hotel.  This budget friendly hotel also offers 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi, 24-hour security, daily housekeeping and is also PWD friendly as the hotel is wheelchair accessible.

Wallabies Hotel Online Booking HERE

Wallabies Hotel
Washington St. Corner Zamora St., Roxas City, Capiz
Contact number: (036) 6211489 / 09107512772

Novotel Hotel Roxas City

After our 3 day Gigantes Islands visit, we headed back to Roxas City where we will be staying overnight before our flight back to Manila. We decided to check-in at Novotel hotel Roxas City.

Novotel hotel Roxas City is located along Arnaldo Boulevard and is few minutes tricycle ride from Roxas City Airport, Roxas City center and the famous food destination Baybay. Being along the main road, Novotel is just few steps away from Gaisano mall, Roxas Provincial Hospital and various restaurants and bars. The hotel’s facade is barely noticeable as it shares the same building with its sister company NOVO department store.

Since we were no longer new to Novotel hotel, as expected, the room was decent. The queen-sized bed and the pillows were very comfortable. There is an LCD cable TV. The room was very clean and well maintained. I just noticed that the doors used to be powered by keycard locks but for some reasons were converted to the traditional door knobs. Nonetheless, security will not be an issue in the hotel.

Novotel Roxas City Room Rates

VIP Room- 1,050 Php
Family Room- 1,050  Php
Deluxe Room- 800 Php

Novotel Roxas City is under the hotel chains of Asia Novotel which is also has hotel chains in Caloocan City, Kalibo, Dumaguete, Sorsogon and General Santos City.

Unfortunately, Novotel hotel does not have an online booking facility. You may book other Roxas City hotels HERE. 

Asia Novotel Roxas City
Tanque, Inzo Arnaldo Village, Roxas City, Capiz
Contact Number: (036) 6320869

3 myths about solo travelers and solo traveling

Posted on by 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. 🙂

Bongao Peak, Tawi-Tawi
Bongao Peak, Tawi-Tawi

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!

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

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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6 Things You Should Know Before Going to Islas de Gigantes Iloilo

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
scallops shucking

Excited to visit Islas de Gigantes in Iloilo? Here are some tips and things you should know before going to Islas de Gigantes:

disclaimer: most of the below tips are based on what we have experienced during our visit in the islands last August 2016.

1. Islas de Gigantes is a group of islands

Islas de Gigantes is a group of islands located in the Western Visayas archipelago within the Visayan sea. This must visit Philippine destination is part of the municipality of Carles, the northernmost part of Iloilo province.

Islas de Gigantes is composed of 10 islands. The two largest islands are the Gigantes Norte and Gigantes Sur. In the southeast of Gigantes Norte are the islets Bulubadiang, Gigantillo and Gigantuna. On the south of Gigantes Sur are the islands and islets Antonia, Bantigui, Cabugao, Tanguingui, and Turnina.

A photo posted by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on

Antonia Island, Islas de Gigantes

A photo posted by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on

Cabugao Gamay Island, Islas de Gigantes

2. Best time to visit Islas de Gigantes is from December to May

If you want to fully enjoy the Islas de Gigantes experience, the best time to visit is during the months of December to May.  Avoid the habagat season from June to November due to the strong sea waves. To preserve the natural beauty of Islas de Gigante’s lagoon which is also known as “Tanke”, guests are also restricted to visit it during the habagat season.  Sadly, we visited the beautiful Islas de Gigantes during the season and the famous tanke was closed for tourists.

3. Electricity is from 5 PM to 6 AM

Being a remote island in the northeast part of Iloilo, there is limited electricity in Islas de Gigantes’ mainland- Gigantes Sur. Electricity is only available from 5 PM to 6 AM. During our stay in the island, we experienced blackouts even during the 5 PM to 6 AM window. Good thing is that Gigantes Hideway Tourist Inn has generators to back-up in case of power shortage.

The limited electricity will not be an issue during your stay in Islas de Gigantes. You will be touring around Islas de Gigantes during daytime and will be back in the resort before evening. During your idle time, the experience of not having electricity during daytime will make you feel how it’s like living in a remote island with no electricity and cellphone signal (read number 5).

4. Main Industry is Scallops Harvesting and Shucking

Since there is no electricity during daytime, during our first afternoon in Gigantes Sur, we decided to stroll outside the Gigantes Hideway Tourist Inn resort. We noticed that scallops shells are all over the place. We talked to locals and discovered that the primary industry in the island is scalloping. In fact, Islas de Gigantes’ Gigantes Norte is the scallops capital of the municipality of Carles. As we walked farther, we noticed a group of locals shucking scallops. Their leader was kind enough to tell us more about the scallops industry in the island. Most of the shucked scallops are placed on bottles, frozen and exported to Cebu, Manila and even outside the Philippines. Sadly, they only earn a little from scalloping and shucking. That expensive baked scallops you order in fancy restaurants might be a product of these people’s hard work.

We then decided that we will give most of the goodies we bought for my very first Travel with a Purpose Project to these friendly and hardworking Islas de Gigantes locals.

Scallops shucking
Scallops shucking
Travel with a Purpose in Islas de Gigantes

Tip: Stroll around the area during daytime and discover more of Islas de Gigantes.

4. No cellphone signal except from Gigantes Sur’s “call center”, Bulubadiang and Cabugao Gamay

There is no cellphone signal in Gigantes Sur except for a spot they call as call center.  It is where locals visit if they want to use their mobile phones. As for the other islands in Islas de Gigantes, there is also signal in the islands Bulubadiang and the famous Cabugao Gamay. So, while in Islas de Gigantes, do not expect that you will be able to post photos in your Facebook and Instagram real-time.

Tip: Disconnect and simply enjoy Islas de Gigantes. Remember, you are there for the experience. Enjoy first and share your photos later.

5. Limited passenger boat trip going to and out of Islas de Gigantes

Islas de Gigantes can be reached via Iloilo City or Roxas City. Booking a flight is easy but catching the  boat trip a day to Islas de Gigantes requires careful time planning as missing the passenger boat ride from the port to Islas de Gigantes could ruin your itinerary. There are only two daily trips going to Islas de Gigantes. One is from Carles port which promptly leaves at 10 AM and the other one is from Estancia port which leaves at 1 PM.

Same goes if you are leaving Islas de Gigantes, there is also a limited number of trips from the Islas de Gigantes Sur to Estancia or Carles port.

Tip:  If you don’t want to ride a passenger boat, special and private trip from Estancia port to Islas de Gigantes will cost you 4,500 Pesos.

Boat scedule from/to Islas de Gigantes
Boat to the island

6. Cheapest tour package is Islas Hideaway Tourist Inn’s

If you are on a tight budget and wants a complete and memorable Islas de Gigantes experience, I would highly recommend availing a tour package offered by Islas de Gigantes Hideaway resort. Unlike other tour agencies, The Gigantes Hideaway’s rates are by far the cheapest we have seen. And I should say that Gigantes Hideaway did not disappoint us. [Related: Cheapest Islas de Gigantes Tour Package].