Anika Island Resort in Bantayan Island Cebu + Review, Room Rates

Posted on March 2, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Anika Island Resort is one among the best resorts in Bantayan Island Island, Cebu, Philippines. Located in Santa Fe, this Bantayan Island resort is very near to Sta.Fe Port Ferry – gateway of Bantayan island if you are coming from mainland Cebu.

Anika Island Resort Bantayan Island Cebu Philippines — Anika Island Resort, Bantayan Island, Cebu Philippines

Highly Rated Bantayan Island Resort

Annika Island Resort is a highly rated resort in Bantayan island. The average ratings of guests who have visited Anika Island Resort are higher compared to other resorts in the island. Below are the average ratings of Anika Island Resort as of March 1, 2018:

Tripadvisor – 4 out of 5 (Excellent)
Agoda – 8.4 out of 10 (Excellent)
Travelbook – 4.6 out of 5 (Excellent)

The rating and reviews made us decide to book Anika Island Resort for our first night in Bantayan Island. For a discounted room rate, we booked our Anika Island Resort cottage via Travelbook. Like us, you too can enjoy huge discounts by booking HERE or HERE.

Hassle Free Check-In

Upon arriving in Sta.Fe port, we hailed a tricycle to bring us to Anika Island Resort. Travel time from port to the resort is roughly 5 minutes. Fare is 20 Php ($0.40) per person.

The check-in process was a breeze. I just told them that I booked thru Travelbook. The Anika Island Resort reception asked me to fill-out a short guest information form. And that’s it! They did not bother to ask for the booking reference number.

Good Customer Service

Most online reviews indicate that Anika Island Resort has good customer service. The reception experience upon our check-in was okay but Jason, the staff who assisted us to our room, made us feel very special. He was very polite and helpful. Jason carried our bags while heading us to our cottage. He even shared useful information about the tourists attractions and some useful tips during our stay in the island. Apart from Jason, the staff especially the guards were very helpful. The check-out was also a breeze and the staff in the reception were very friendly.

Iconic Sun-Basking Area

Anika Bantayan Island Cebu Philippines — Anika Island Resort

Among all Bantayan Island Resorts, Anika Island Resort has the most beautiful and iconic beach bed area. They have this huge Anika signage which is guests and passers-by have their pictures taken.

Unique and Neatly Arranged Cottages

Anika Island Resort’s property is small in land area. However, they utilized its limited real estate and ensured that the swimming pool, cottages and other facilities are strategically situated. Also, this Bantayan resort has unique and beautiful cottages which walls are primarily made of container vans.

Well-Kept Surroundings and Beachfront

Common areas such as the beachfront, garden and restaurant are always clean. During our entire stay at Anika Island Resort, we often see resort’s staff cleaning around the resort. Since we visited on a season where there are seaweeds in the beachfront, there is a designated staff who makes sure to clean and remove the seaweeds on the shore.

Anika Island Resort’s Garden View Room

Garden View Cottages Anika Resort Bantayan

Since an Ocean View Room is too pricey for us, we opted to book a Garden View Room via Travelbook. We booked the room at 2,544 Php (approx. $50.88) instead of 2,700 Php (approx. $54).

Garden View Room Anika Bantayan

arden View Room Anika Bantayan

The room or should I say the cottage has a veranda with a dinette set. This is also the area in your cottage where smoking is allowed. The room comes with an LCD cable TV, air-conditioning unit, closet and safe deposit box. We personally loved the comfortable bed and 3 pillows. Our only rant is the Wifi which we weren’t able to use to slow internet connection.

The toilet and bath come with bath towels, soap and toothpaste. There is hot and cold shower and the toilet has a bidet. The water pressure was good too. Overall, the room and the toilet and bath are very clean.

View from our cottage's veranda — View from our cottage’s veranda

Anika Island Resort Room Rates

Anika Island Resort easily gets fully booked even lean-season. Book your Anika room in advance H ERE or HERE.

Ocean View Room

These are beachfront rooms in the resort. Nearest to the iconic beach bed area of Anika Island Resort. An Ocean View Room is good for 3 persons and costs 4,000 Php (approx. $80) a night.

Garden View Room

These rooms are situated right behind the Ocean View Rooms but still near the beach. Guests in these rooms will enjoy the garden view of the resort. If you have kids, these rooms are also the nearest to the resort’s playground. A Garden View Room is good for 2 persons at 2,700 Php (approx. $54) a night.

Sunset Pool Side

Sunset Pool Side Rooms are the nearest to the resort’s pool. These rooms remind me of Boracay’s Hennan Prime Beach Resort direct pool access rooms. With 2 single bed, veranda and view of the resort’s pool at 2,900 Php (approx. $58) a night.

Beach Villa

Choose from a single detached villa good for 3 persons for 4,200 Php (approx. $84) or duplex villa good for 3 persons at 3,700 Php (approx. $74) a night.

Courtyard Room

Situated at the back part of the resort. These are the rooms nearest to the entrance of Anika Island Resort. These are the cheapest rooms in the resort at 2,000 Php (approx. $40) a night.

Recommended Bantayan Beach Resort

Overall, I would recommend Anika Island Beach Resort to anyone who is visiting Bantayan Island in Cebu. The entire resort and the cottages are well-maintained. Customer service is good. And of course the beach is awesome!

Anika Island Resort

Address: F. Roska St., Brgy. Okoy
Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island 6047
Cebu, Philippines
Mobile: (+63) 917 328 4898 / (+63) 999 886 4465 / (+63) 922 843 9517
Telephone: (+63 32) 438-9073

Email: [email protected]

Discounted online booking HERE / HERE

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Food
...
- Metro Manila
- Travels

Look: Kape Brew – Local Coffee Shop in Taguig

Posted on February 3, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Kape Brew is one among the few promising local coffee shops in the Taguig City. Located along Levi B. Mariano avenue, Usuasan, Taguig City, Kape Brew is a few minute drive from The Nest Taguig, Taguig City Hall, All Home Taguig, Camella Grenville and Acacia Estates. This humble coffee shop is walking distance from Tres Palmas Condominium, Hafele, Panglao Oasis and Taguig Medical Center.

Kape Brew’s façade is truly eye-catching. The huge signage engraved in wood makes it stand out in the area. You wouldn’t miss Kape Brew when you’re passing by Levi Mariano. If you are bringing a car, note that there is only a limited parking space in front of Ministop.

Unlike the more popular and commercialized coffee shops, Kape Brew’s limited real estate makes it private and quiet. A perfect place to read, study or even work while enjoying coffee. Truly a haven to those who do not want crowded and noisy cafes.

Simple and Homey Interior

Being a local coffee shop, I was not really expecting fancy interiors when we entered Kape Brew. Surprisingly, it’s interior is well thought of. Chairs and tables are carefully arranged. The furniture and fixtures are consistent with the huge Café Brew signage on its facade. Given its small space, the entire coffee shop looks spacious. I personally love the wooden tables and chairs along with the wall writing quotes and art. Overall, the interior is simple, clean and homey.

Affordable Coffee Shop

We checked out the menu and were surprised that their coffee and food offerings are very affordable! Since we visited after lunch, we weren’t able to try their food. We ordered Wintermelon Milktea (90 Php) and Salted Caramel Frapuccino (135 Php) instead.

Kape Brew's milk tea and frap — Kape Brew’s Wintermelon Milk Tea and Salted Caramel frap

Kape Brew Menu

Cold Drinks
	Small (12 oz)	Big (16 oz)
Iced Latte	100	110
Iced Mocha	110	120
Iced Chocolate	110	120
Iced Matcha Latte	110	120
Iced Caramel Macchiato	110	120
Wintermelon Milk Tea	–	90

Frappuccino
Classic Mocha	120	130
Classic Chocolate Cream	120	130
Chocolate Java Chip	125	135
Cookies & Cream	125	135
Salted Caramel	125	135
Matcha Cream	125	135
Hot Drinks
Espresso	Single 25	Double 75

	Short (8 oz)	Tall (12 oz)
Americano	80	90
Latte	90	100
Cappuccino	90	100
Mocha	95	105
Caramel Macchiato	95	105
Classic Hot Chocolate	95	105
Matcha	90	100
Tea	70	–

All Day Breakfast

Beef Tapa with garlic rice & egg	150
Classic Adobo with garlic rice & egg	150
Pork Embutido with garlic rice	120
Spam with garlic rice & egg	120
Chicken Sausage with garlic rice & egg	100
Pasta (with 2 pcs. Garlic bread)
Beef Lasagna	150
Baked Macaroni	150
Pesto Pasta	150
Bread
Pandesal with homemade chicken spread and lettuce	90
Pandesal with smap, egg and lettuce	90

Kape Brew Loyalty Card

This must visit Taguig coffee shop also offers perks to their loyal customers. They now have a loyalty card where you can get 50% off on any beverage and even get free beverage and pastry. Just make sure you have your loyalty card signed every you visit Kape Brew.

Highly Recommended Coffee Shop in Taguig

If you are visiting Taguig city, I would highly recommend Kape Brew. The place is nice, calm and peaceful. As for the service, the owner along with the baristas are very welcoming and accommodating. Coffee and food on their menu are very affordable! So, forget the mainstream coffee shops in the area and give Kape Brew a try!

Kape Brew

Tres Palmas Commercial Arcade, Levi Mariano Ave., Ususan, Taguig
Contact Numbers: 8744172 / 09052347929 / 09957227880

Travels

Philippine Holidays 2018 – Regular, Special Non Working & Additional Special Non Working Holidays

Posted on January 14, 2018January 14, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

2018 is indeed a Happy New Year due to numerous public holidays and long weekends. There are 10 regular holidays and 5 of which fall on either Monday or Friday. For special non-working and additional non-working holidays, there are 9 and 4 of which fall on Monday and Friday.

Complete list of Philippine Holidays 2018

Regular Holidays

January
- January 1, 2018 (Monday) – New Year’s Day

February
- No regular holiday
March
- March 29, 2018 (Thursday) – Maundy Thursday
- March 30, 2018 (Friday) – Good Friday

April
- April 9, 2018 (Monday) – Araw ng Kagitingan
May
- May 1, 2018 (Tuesday) – Labor Day
June
- June 12, 2018 (Tuesday) – Independence Day
July
- No regular holiday
August
- August 27, 2018 (Monday) – National Heroes Day
September
- No regular holiday
October
- No regular holiday
November
- November 30, 2018 (Friday) – Bonifacio Day
December
- December 25, 2018 (Tuesday) – Christmas Day
- December 30, 2018 (Sunday) – Rizal Day

Special Non-Working Days

January
- No special non-working day
February
- February 16, 2018 (Friday) – Chinese New Year
- February 25, 2018 (Sunday) – EDSA Revolution Anniversary
March
- March 31, 2018 (Saturday) – Black Saturday
April
- No special non-working day
May
- No special non-working day
June
- No special non-working day
July
- No special non-working day
August
- August 21, 2018 (Tuesday) – Ninoy Aquino Day
September
- No special non-working day
October
- No special non-working day
November
- November 1, 2018 (Thursday) – All Saints’ Day
December
- December 31, 2018 (Monday) – Last day of the year

Additional Special Non-Working Days

November 2, 2018 (Friday) – All Souls’ Day
December 24, 2018 (Monday) – Christmas Eve

With all these holidays and long weekends, you better plan your travels this early. Buy your plane tickets, book your hotels and cross out items in your 2018 travel bucket list!

Note that above list of 2018 Philippine Holidays is in line with Republic Act (RA) Number 9492 dated July 24, 2007 amended Section 26, Chapter 7, Book I of Executive Order (EO) Number 292, also known as the Administrative Code of 1987. For reference please visit 2018 Philippine Holidays Official Gazette.

Travels

NLEX Toll Rates 2018

Posted on January 1, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

If you are traveling to central or northern part of the Philippines by land, please be guided of the following NLEX and SCTEX toll rates as of November 6, 2017.

Disclaimer: Note that I do not own the below tables. These are owned by Toll Regulatory Board (TRB). This blog post is for informational purposes only.

Below are the NLEX, Tipo, SCTEX toll gates:

Mindanao Avenue
Valenzuela
Meycauayan
Marilao
Bocaue
Balagtas
Tabang
Sta. Rita
Pulilan
San Simon
San Fernando
Mexico
Angeles
Dau
Sta. Ines
Dinalupihan
Floridablanca
Parac
Clark South
Mabalacat
Clark North
Dolores
Concepcion
San Miguel
Tarlac

Class 1

Vehicles under this type are the following:

cars
jeepneys
pick-ups
taxis
vans
vehicles with 2-axles and 7 ft. in height

NLEX Toll rates 2018 class 1 — NLEX Toll Rates 2018 class 1 – *Please click image to enlarge*

Class 2

Under this vehicle type are the following:

buses
trucks with 2-axles and above 7 ft. in height
light vehicles with more than 2 axles and 7 ft. in height

NLEX Toll Rates 2018 class 2 – *Please click image to enlarge*

Class 3

Class 3 vehicles are trucks with 3 or more axles and are 7 ft. above in height.

Note that these information are from Toll Regulatory Board’s website. For further information, visit their website at http://www.trb.gov.ph/.

Travels

SLEX Toll Rates 2018

Posted on January 1, 2018January 1, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

If you are traveling to southern Luzon part of the Philippines by land, please be guided of the following SLEX toll rates:

Disclaimer: I do not own the below tables. These are owned by Toll Regulatory Board (TRB). This blog post is for informational purposes only.

SLEX toll gates:

Merville
Bicutan
Sucat
Alabang
Filinvest
Muntinlupa-Cavite
Susana Heights
San Pedro
Southwoods
Carmona
Mamplasan
Sta. Rosa
ABI/Greenfiels
Cabuyao
Calamba
Sto. Tomas

Class 1

Class 1 vehicles are cars, jeepneys, pick-ups, taxis, vans and other vehicles with 2-axles and 7 ft. in height.

Class 2

Class 2 vehicles include buses, trucks with 2-axles and above 7 ft. in height and light vehicles with more than 2 axles and 7 ft. in height.

Class 3

Class 3 vehicles are trucks with 3 or more axles and are 7 ft. above in height.

Again, the above SLEX Toll Rates 2018 tables are owned by Toll Regulatory Board or TRB. For further information, please visit their website http://www.trb.gov.ph/.

Places to visit in Southern Luzon:

Tagaytay (Cavite)
Laguna

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Davao
...

4 Must Visit Affordable Restaurants in Davao City Philippines

Posted on December 28, 2017December 29, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Davao City is becoming a popular tourist destination among Filipinos and foreign travelers. The most visited tourist destinations in the city are Philippine Eagle Center, Davao Crocodile Park and the beautiful Samal Island. Apart from these must visit tourist spots, your Davao City experience will not be complete without trying these 4 local Davao City restaurants:

Fighter in Philippine Eagle Center Davao

Related blog posts:

1. Yurushi Restaurant

If you are on a budget, Yurushi restaurant is one among the affordable food destinations in the city. A local favorite, Yurushi restaurant offers authentic Japanese food that will not empty your pocket.

On their menu are various Japanese food such as Pork Katsudon (80 Php), Beef Gyudon (90 Php), Chicken Oyakudon (75 Php), Tonkatsu with rice (80 Php), Chaahan (50 Php), Miso Ramen (60 Php), Gyuza with rice (70 Php), Chicken/Pork Karaage with rice (60 Php) and Miso soup (50 Php). These cheap Davao City restaurant also offers non-Japanese food on their menu.

We ordered Pork Tonkatsu (80 Php) and my all-time favorite Japanese dish – Chicken Oyakodon (75 Php).

Being an affordable food place, you don’t get high-end and cozy ambiance in Yurusi. The place is simple and a bit old. Nonetheless, with its affordable dishes, you get the value for your money. Yurushi is well-known among locals as the Japanese owner himself used to prepare the food in the restaurant. Unfortunately, the owner was not around when we visited Yurushi. It appears that the owner has already taught his staff to cook the restaurant’s Japanese food offerings.

Yurushi Restaurant Schedule: opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM
Contact Number: +63 82 225 5052
Location: Uyanguren Street, Davao City

2. Penong’s

Another budget-friendly and local favorite Davao City restaurant is Penong’s. This restaurant is undoubtedly the most popular among locals as they offer delicious food at an affordable price. Penong’s can be seen all over Davao City. It has 15 branches and is also present in other municipalities and cities in Mindanao.

Penong’s has earned its reputation for having the best chicken barbeque in Davao City. Apart from the barbeques, Penong’s also serves various Filipino dishes such as seafood, meat and vegetables. This Davao City restaurant is also the first one in the Philippines to offer unlimited rice to its diners.

I ordered 2 pcs. porkchop with unlimited rice (110 Php) and Pork Pinakbet (140 Php). I have to say that the pork chop is delicious! Its taste is unique and something you can only have at Penong’s. The unlimited rice is also a plus!

Penong’s Restaurant Schedule: opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM
Contact Number: +63 82 225 5052
Locations:

Ponciano
Matina (NCCC)
Sta-ana
Matina (Gallera)
Quirino
Buhangin
Toril
Lanang
Calinan
G-Mall Davao
Bajada
Sasa
Malvar
Ecoland
Abreeza
Mintal

3. Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp.

If you want fine dining at an affordable price, visit Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp. Another local favorite, Lachi’s started as a bakery turned into a restaurant. Lachi’s is known for their yummy cakes and pastries. On their menu are various sandwiches, sausages, pastas and rice meals.

Unforgettable pork ribs — Unforgettable Grilled Pork Ribs

We ordered the mouthwatering Unforgettable Grilled Pork Ribs (180 Php). For desert, we ordered a slice of Carrot Walnut cake (60 Php), Davao Durian cheesecake (72 Php). The cake slices are very affordable!

The entire restaurant is very clean. The ambiance is something you get when dining in at popular restaurants in Manila. Lachi’s personally reminds me of Conti’s chain of restaurants. The only difference is the price.

Lachi's restaurangt in Davao — Lachi’s restaurangt in Davao

I will not write further about Lachi’s as I’ve written a separate blog post about this must visit Davao City restaurant. Please visit Affordable Restaurant in Davao City – Lachi’s.

Lachi’s Sans Rival atbp. Schedule: opens at 11:00 AM and closes at 8:00 PM
Contact Number: +63 82 224 5552
Location: Door 1-H Values School Building, Ruby Street, Marfori Heights Subdivision

4. Davao Dencia’s Restaurant

Davao Dencia’s Restaurant is the oldest restaurant in this list. In 1950s, this Davao City restaurant opened its doors and started serving Filipino, Chinese and Spanish dishes.

From outside, you can tell that Dencia’s restaurant used to be one of the grandest restaurant in the city. Up to this day, Dencia’s is a favorite reception for weddings, baptismal and parties . Well, this is an indication that Dencia’s restaurant offers the finest dishes in Davao.

The restaurant has this rustic feel. Perhaps due to to the Filipiniana furnitures and fixtures. Nonetheless, the entire restaurant is very clean. The service is superb too!

Dencia’s restaurant bestsellers are Lugaw Goto, Arroz Caldo, Tokwa’t Baboy, Lechon Kawali, Lumpisang Shanghai and Pancit Canton. Since we visited Davao Dencia’s Restaurant for a snack, we ordered their Special Halo-halo (110 Php), Fresh Fruit Salad (110 Php) and Shrimps Sandwich (110 Php).

We personally love the Shrimps Sandwich. It was our first time to have a sandwich filled with yummy shrimps!

Davao’s Dencia’s Restaurant Schedule: opens daily from 7:00 AM to 9 PM
Contact Number: +63 82 226 4336
Location: General Luna Street, Davao City

Davao
...
- Travels

Davao Crocodile Park Visit + Review, Entrance Fees, Show Schedule

Posted on December 27, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Davao Crocodile Park is one among the many tourist destinations in Davao city. Established in 1995, Davao Crocodile Park promotes conservation of crocodiles along with other wild animals. It is said that the park showcases a state of the art crocodile farming system not only in Davao but in the entire country.

Various sections in Davao Crocodile Park

Located in Riverfront, Diversion Road, Ma-a, Davao City, Davao Crocodile Park is accessible at any point in the city via taxi.
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Davao Crocodile Park Location Map

After our overnight stay in Paradise Island Beach Park and Beach Resort in Samal Island, we headed to Crocodile Park.

Just outside the park are several food stalls and souvenir shops. If you are a food adventurer, one of the food stalls sells exotic ice cream flavors such as crocodile coffee, crocodile durian, crocodile crollo and ostrich vanilla. We tried crocodile durian for only 95 Php.

After enjoying the yummy crocodile ice cream, we immediately paid for the entrance fee and entered the park. If you have backpack with you, need not to worry as they have a baggage counter right in the entrance of the park.

Crocodiles of all Sizes

As expected, Davao Crocodile Park showcases crocodiles of all sizes. The park is the home of the Philippine’s largest crocodile in captivity – Pangil.

Pangil is an 18-feet saltwater crocodile and currently holds the title of the largest Philippine crocodile in captivity. Apart from Pangil, the park showcases its self-nurtured crocodiles varying in age and sizes.

Witnessed these crocodiles being fed by one of the guests.

Koi and Ostrich Feeding

Apart from the countless crocodiles, Davao Crocodile Park visitors also get to experience close encounters with Koi fishes and ostriches. Food for these animals are available in the area for only 20 Php per pack.

The Koi fishes feeding is fun! These Koi fishes will tickle your hands!

I was first scared by the strong and hard beak of this Ostrich. Surprisingly, they are gentle and don’t hurt your hands.

Davao Crocodile Park is also home to various animals including bird species, alligators, snakes and orangutans. I felt happy to see my favorite and good smelling creature – binturong (bearcat).

Davao Crocodile Park Show

It was my second time to visit Davao Crocodile Park. This time, I was very excited to witness the park’s animal shows as I missed them during my fist visit to the park. Right after strolling around the park. We were on time for the park’s show.

Tip: To fully enjoy the park and witness various shows, visit on a weekend. Make sure to be at the park before 4:00 PM.

The ‘Animal got talent’ show started at exactly 4:00 PM. This 20 minute awesome animal show showcases various bird species and monkeys doing their tricks.

Right after the ‘Animal got talent’ is the ‘Pangil encounter’ show located in Pagil’s pen. Here, one of the staff tries to wake up Pangil so that he’ll react aggressively. It was entertaining but I’m not sure if this part of the show is healthy for a crocodile like Pangil.

Below is a short video of the ‘Pangil encounter’ show:

At 4:35 PM, visitors transferred to Tiger’s den for the ‘Tiger climb’ show. One of the staff lures this big cat to climb in a post. For some reason, we waited for like 10 minutes but the Bengal tiger ignored the staff and did not climb to the post.

After the supposedly ‘Tiger climb’, guests moved to the crocodile feeding area. Here, a staff will go inside and will make rounds in the cage feeding medium-sized crocodiles. It was very scary and entertaining at the same time!

Below is a short video of the crocodile feeding:

After the crocodile feeding show, guests transferred to breeder pen A for the ‘crocodile dancing show’. Here, a couple of park staff try to feed the crocodile from a bridge. They hang ropes with food on the other end. Crocodiles chase food and they visually appear to be dancing.

Davao Crocodile Park Show Schedule

Monday

10:00 AM – Animal Got Talent
4:00 PM – Crocodile Feeding
4:15 PM – Animal Petting

Tuesday

10:00 AM – Animal Got Talent
4:00 PM – Tiger Climb
4:15 PM – Animal Petting

Wednesday

10:00 AM – Animal Got Talent
4:00 PM – Crocodile Feeding
4:15 PM – Giant Crocodile Feeding
4:25 PM – Animal Petting

Thursday

10:00 AM – Animal Got Talent
4:00 PM – Tiger Climb
4:15 PM – Animal Petting

Friday, Saturday and Sunday

10:00 AM – Animal Got Talent
4:00 PM -Animal Got Talent
4:20 PM – Crocodile Feeding
4:25 PM – Pangil Encounter
4:35 PM – Tiger Climb
4:40 PM – Crocodile Feeding
4:45 PM – Crocodile Dancing
4:50 PM – Tightrope Walking
5:15 PM – Animal Petting
5:45 PM – Spectacular Fire Show

Davao Crocodile Park Schedule

Opens at 8:00 AM
Closes at 6:00 PM

Davao Crocodile Park Entrance Fees

Davao Crocodile Park offers cheap and budget-friendly entrance fees. The published entrance fees include tour to Davao Crocodile Park, Tribu K’Mindanawan and Butterfly House:

Adults – 250 Php
kids – 150 Php
Senior Citizen / PwD – 150 Php
children below 2 years old – FREE

Overall, I enjoyed our Davao Crocodile Park visit. The entire park is clean and well-maintained. The entrance fee is fairly-priced if you witness the shows. Just make sure to plan your park visit on a weekend afternoon.

Related Blog Post: Philippine Eagle Center in Davao City

Davao Crocodile Park

Address: Riverfront, Corporate City, Diversion Highway
Ma-a, Davao City, Philippines
Contact Numbers: (082) 286 8883 or (082) 221 7749
E-Mail: [email protected]
Website: http://crocodilepark.ph/

Visiting Davao City? Book your hotel HERE or HERE.

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Food
...

Where to Eat in Cagayan De Oro City? Boy Zugba

Posted on October 29, 2017October 30, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Boy Zugba Kusina Bisaya or simply Boy Zugba is one among the few local restaurants in Cagayan de Oro City. This restaurant offers an array of grilled food and various Filipino dishes. If you are a foodie adventurer visiting Cagayan de Oro, Boy Zugba should be on the top of your to visit food places in the city.

“Zugba” comes from the Visayan word “Sugba” which means grilled.

Boy Zugba CDO Location

Boy Zugba is situated along Corrales Avenue where most of the local restaurants in the city is located. It is also few meters away from budget accommodations such as Rich Manor Pension House, LRD Pension, CDO Hotel Cento and hotels such as Southwinds hotel and Seda CDO. Boy Zugba can easily be reached from any point in the city via taxi.

The restaurant’s eye-catching facade is modern yet with a Pinoy feel. From outside, you can say that the restaurant looks cool inside. The photo I took does not give justice to the Boy Zugba’s facade.

Note: I was literally the last guest to leave the place. And they have already turned-off the lights in the restaurant’s signage.

Cool Interiors and Atmosphere

This homegrown Cagayan de Oro City restaurant probably has the coolest interiors and atmosphere among other local restaurants in the city.

I personally love this window full of hugot lines in Visayan language. Although I hardly understand Bisaya, I’m sure these lines are funny!

They also have a “kumusta imong love life?” (How’s your love life) corner. Guests may pick their fortune from a bowl full of hugot lines which I’m sure anyone could relate to.

Creative and Witty Menu

Boy Zugba also captured my heart with its creative and witty menu. Food on their menu are humorously classified such as Ang Fried of CDO, Do it… Pancit!, Sizzle Bebeh!, Bagetz Meal and Wow Sabaw!

Here is the complete Boy Zugba Menu:

Food

Since I visited the restaurant during dinner, I ordered Oppa Gambas Style (299 Php). It is basically Boy Zugba’s version of the Filipino dish Gambas.

It was a surprise that the sizzling Oppa Gambas Style is served with button mushrooms (which are my favorite) and bell peppers. Shrimps are bigger than the usual Gambas which are good. The sauce is just perfect for the generous amount of shrimps.The serving of this yummy dish is actually good for 2 persons.

For my dessert, I ordered “What’s your plan, Leche flan?” (49 Php). The presentation of this typical Filipino dessert was unexpected and cool!

Highly Recommended Restaurant in CDO

If you are travelling to Cagayan de Oro City in Misamis Oriental, make sure to visit Boy Zugba. The ambiance is cool, service is good and food is great! If you are a backpacker or a budget traveller, need not to worry as they have budget meals too!

Boy Zugba Operating Hours: Open from 11 AM to 11 PM on weekdays and 11 AM to 12 AM on weekends.

Boy Zugba Contact Numbers (They also have a branch at Centrio Mall CDO.)

Corrales (088) 880-5555 / 0917-7722450
Centrio (088) 859-0115 / 0917-7721834

accommodation
...
- Camiguin
- review
- Solo Travels
- Travels

Affordable Resort in Camiguin Island – Marianita’s Cottages

Posted on October 24, 2017October 24, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Marianita's Cottages Camiguin Philippines

If you are planning to visit the beautiful Camiguin province, there is a number of resorts and accommodations in the island. For luxury travelers, there are high-end but expensive resorts such as Balai sa Baibai and Guerrera Rice Paddy Villas. On the other hand, for budget travelers, you may stay at GV Hotel Camiguin or The Yellow House in Camiguin. There are also mid-range resorts if you want comfort and convenience, one of which is my highly recommended resort – Marianita’s Cottages.

beachfront rooms at Marianita's Cottages — beachfront rooms at Marianita’s Cottages

Peaceful and Quiet Location

Marianita’s Cottages is situated along Camiguin Circumferential Road, Mambajao, Camiguin. It is ideally located in the center of Yumbing bay ad just across Camiguin’s white island. The resort is 7 kilometers away from Mambajao proper which makes its surroundings more peaceful and quiet.

The resort’s proximity to various Camiguin island tourist spots is also an advantage. The port going to Camiguin’s famous white island is just 2 minute multicab/tricycle away from Marianita’s cottages. Marianita’s Cottages is also close to many restaurants and food places in Mambajo. It is also 10 minutes away from Camiguin airport.

Very Clean and Well-Maintained Resort

Surprisingly, Marianita’s Cottages is very clean. The resort’s real estate may be limited but the location of rooms, reception and the beachfront area were artistically and carefully planned. Each room has its own balcony with a dinette set. Cool signages can be seen pointing to the cottages and the beach. The beach front cottages are just few steps away from the mini bar and beach beds.

Superior Room at Marianita’s Cottages

simple and homey room

The spacious rooms are very clean, simple yet stylish. I personally loved the bed and pillows. The lines and pillow cases are very clean and are of high quality. They’re very comfortable and can be at par with that of high-end resorts. The flooring is also something unique and special. The air-conditioned rooms also comes with a cable LCD TV, free WiFi, mini sofa, dresser, basic toiletries and personal refrigerator. If you want some snacks or drinks, the refrigerator is packed with snacks, bottled water, juices and beers. The stylish toilet and bath is also very clean and comes with a hot and cold shower.

Marianita’s Cottages Room Rates

Marianita’s Cottages room rates are very affordable. Below are the published room rates of this Camiguin resort:

Standard Room (fan) for 2 PAX- 1,200 Php (24 USD)
Superior Room (Air Conditioned) for 2 PAX – 1,500 Php (30 USD)
Beach Front Room (Air Conditioned) for 2 PAX – 1,800 Php (36 USD)
Front Beach Suite (Air Conditioned) for up to 4 PAX – 2,100 Php (42 USD)

Tip: Rates are cheaper if you book online HERE. I was able to book the Superior Room (non-beachfront room) few hours before checking-in at 1,400 Php instead of 1,500 Php. Rates are cheaper if you book ahead of your Camiguin visit.

Highly Recommended Camiguin Resort

I would highly recommend Marianita’s Cottages to anyone who is visiting Camiguin island. The rooms and the entire resort are very clean and well-maintained. The receptionists Bem-bem and Jen along with the owner are very friendly and accommodating. I had my Camiguin island tour during my second day in the island. I had to check-out before 12 PM, left my backpack in the resort and continued with my tour. When I returned to Marianita’s, they were so kind to even offer me free use of their shower. They truly know what customer service is!

Marianita’s Cottages

Contact Number: +639171045304

Address: Purok 2- Yumbing, National Highway 9100 Mambajao, Camiguin

Online Booking HERE

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Cheap Accommodation in Butuan City – Gloreto Guest House

Posted on September 30, 2017November 19, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

If you are visiting the Philippine’s Caraga region and will be staying in Butuan, there is a number of hotels and accommodations in the city. You may stay in a classy but expensive Butuan Grand Palace Hotel, Hotel Oazis or Almont City Hotel. If you are a backpacker or budget traveler, choose Gloreto Guest House as it has the cheapest rates for an overnight stay in Butuan City.

Gloreto Guest House Location

Gloretyo Guest House is located in Ilang-Ilang st., Ochoa Ave., Butuan City. This cheap Butuan city accommodation is just a few minute multicab ride away from Butuan bus terminal, Butuan National Museum and Gaisano mall. If you are coming from Butuan’s Bancasi airport, Gloreto Guest House can also be reached via multicab.

Gloreto Guest House Butuan Published Room Rates

Matrimonial Bed (Queen Size) 1099.00 P
Single Bed 799.00 Php
Twin Bed 999.00 Php

Tip: Book your discounted Gloreto Guest House room HERE. I only paid 642.50 Php instead of 799 Php for a Single Bed room.

Warm Welcome

After a long bus-ride from Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur, I arrived in Butuan bus terminal at 4:50 PM. I took a special multicab trip (50 Php) to Gloreto Guest House and arrived at exactly 5:00 PM. I immediately headed to the reception area and was warmly welcomed by the receptionists.

Single Bed Room

The receptionist assigned me to a single bed room on the second level of the hotel. The room smells good and is generally clean. It comes with an air-conditioning unit, an old-fashioned cable TV and a mini table that can serve as a work area. The bed and one pillow are just okay. Basic toiletries such as shampoo, soap and bath towel are provided.

I was good with the room but the toilet and bath surprised me. There is an issue with the toilet flush and the faucet needs to be replaced. Good thing is that there is a hot and cold shower with an okay-ish water pressure. I could not complain and reminded myself that I was in a budget hotel.

Related Blog Post: Budget Hotel in Iloilo City: 88 Plaza Hotel

Overall, I was fine it with it. The room is clean and I had a good night sleep.

Missed Complimentary Breakfast

Gloreto Guest House Butuan offers complimentary breakfast from 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM. Since I was too tired from my Hinatuan trip, I woke up past 9:00 AM the next day. Well, I missed the complimentary breakfast!

Surprisingly, one of the staff knocked on my door and asked if I want the breakfast. It made my morning since I will not have to spend for breakfast outside.

I was very thankful to the staff for the room-serviced complimentary breakfast.

Recommended Budget Hotel in Butuan City

Gloreto Guest House is definitely not the best hotel in Butuan City but it is the cheapest and most affordable. The room is clean and customer service is superb. You will not need to worry about your security as there is a guard manning in the hotel. If you are a backpacker or a budget traveller, I would definitely recommend Gloreto Guest House.

Gloreto Guest House Butuan City
Online booking (discounted rates) HERE
Address: Ilang-Ilang st. Ochoa Ave. Butuan City
Contact Number: (085) 816-0701