3 SUMMER SELRIE ENTRY, WON FROM SPORTS UNLIMITED'S "ADVENTURE MO, KWENTO MO."

Announcement of Winners. Loud and Proud of my Girly name. :)

They say the more entries you send the more chances of winning. This is actually true. That’s why a lot of people keen to bet more on sweepstakes to get a better chance of winning the lottery. However, some lotteries have far better chances of winning than others. Instead, sending your entries about your travel stories to Sports Unlimited is a way way higher chance of winning. So am I.

First and foremost, allow me to say “THANK YOU” for picking my entry. I just won a million of happiness.

This is the second time I send an entry for the show, the first one wasn’t really a fiasco but the second one was totally revenge. Hikhik. I was excited before Saturday night show on ABS-CBN for Sports Unlimited. It’s because I received too many praises from my Pico de Loro’s photo shots, I received plenty of FB likes from pictures posted here and there, and yeah I appreciate more hell likes! It feels like someone whispered my ears to travel more and get more. That's why somehow I know I'm gonna win because the one that I just sent was coming from Pico de Loro’s paramount, The Monolith!

The Entry. Ssssh quiet. We are just doing a Summer Selfie in 1-2-3.

The theme was so perfect, it's about Hiking/Climbing Summer story and the emergence of Selfie. Our fingers were quirk on its own without knowing it and just did it only to get a good pose. Indeed, Summer Selfie in 1-2-3.

So if you wish to join and win an exclusive Sports Unlimited shirt, just click this link and follow the rules. Every week has different themes, make sure to like their fan page so you will be updated. Send your entries and share your travel story and experience.

0 SUMMER GROOVE AT CANYON COVE IN NASUGBU

Summer Fiesta! Whew this year I’ve been in to different summer activities, really is a fiesta bonanza. It started from climbing the highest vantage point in Bataan, then grabbing the roads with fun run activities, and of course it will never be complete without visiting the beaches. And so, Batangas would be the perfect and the closest place to escape the summer heat. It started in Lemery Batangas, with my team but I never thought the entire department will go back there for another beachneering spree.

So this time, all plans and itineraries will not be posted here. All decisions were coming from the team leads. We were just waiting for their emails about the details. Then I learned that it will be Canyon Cove. I heard this place but I still asked Mr. Google about it.

Logistics is also provided by the company, they hired buses that will bring us up to the place. However since one of my colleagues brought his car, so I decided to hitch with them. We left at the same time but on a different route. What funny was the five us doesn’t know how to get there, but thanks to my Google Maps we were able to locate the place thru GPS.

The bus took Tagaytay route via South Luzon Expressway; but we decided to take Cavitex as it is much shorter than the bus route.

HOW TO GET THERE

So if you are using private vehicle, you can follow this route. Take Cavitex then exit via Centennial Road, and then you will be passing EPZA Diversion Road. Continue with your driving until your reach Antero Soriano Highway, it will be a long drive until you reach the Governor’s Drive which is also a lengthy highway. You will then arrive in Ternate Cavite. You know if you are in Ternate if you are seeing a mountain range. You will be passing uphill road traversing Mt. Palay-Palay, exit in Nasugbu, Batangas via Nasugbu-Ternate Higway, and continue driving until you reach the Canyon Cove. Please refer to map. Just check the blue line below near the, seaside route.

I suggest taking this route so you will have the chance the see the now becoming famous Kaybiang Tunnel. Most of the private cars passing this tunnel got time to stop and take picture as background. And if you continue with your road trip, reaching the Nasugbu-Ternate Highway, you will have also the chance to see the Batangas Best Coves and Islands nearby that can be seen up from the foot of the mountain. And once again it has panoramic view where most of the motorists got time to take picture of themselves.

Afterwards we just continue our journey as we near the Canyon Cove. Obviously we arrived early, so instead of coming inside we decided to stroll around while waiting for them and look for something to eat. We would like to taste some flavors in the province, we found a small eatery and decided to take brunch. And the taste is so perfect, we ordered some fish and beef, the ingredients, and the taste is so natural and fresh. It turned out that I consumed three cups of rice. I can’t help it.

We then received message from the team that they’re already inside so we packed up and followed them. I’m so amazed with the place; they have large pools with stunning landscapes. And the beach is just few meters away from the pool so you’ll have an option to either go on the pools or party in the beach.  

The beach is not as fine as other beaches and not as white as Boracay, there are parts that are rock-strewn and few types of seaweed that’s why we were wearing flip-flops that is also perfect for summer style when we get to beach. But it still tolerable, they have also activities like kayaking, banana boat, pedal boats, etc.

Since this is a company outing, we don’t have problem with the food, Canyon Cove serves us with buffet style. I’m not sure and I don’t have the nerve to ask how much the catering and even the entire expenses so I can’t give you that details. I heard that they have corkage but guards are not strict so you know how to use your charm. I don't have pictures to post about their rooms because we were only on day tour. But you can check their site below for the amenities and rates.

Overall, Canyon Cove is one of the best places for some beach loving. It’s just two hours away from congested Manila. You can also drop-by at Tagaytay for some Bulalo and pasalubong before going home, or they usually say back to normal life.

*Thanks to my Concur Family! And the entire Client Support Team.

CANYON COVE RESORT

Far East Road, Piloto Wawa, Nasugbu, Batangas, PH

Website: http://www.canyoncove.com.ph/

43 MOTHER'S DAY CLIMB AT MT. PALAY-PALAY (PICO DE LORO)

Souvenir Items from Subi-neer Store at Base Camp 1.

Mt. Palay-Palay, popularly known as Pico de Loro or the Parrot’s Beak is located in Ternate, Cavite which lies near boundary of Nasugbu, Batangas. This mountain has two major jump-off points – in Ternate and in Nasugbu, Batangas that is both open for traverse. This said to be the highest point in the province of Cavite, soaring 664 meters above sea level. At the summit, Metro Manila and nearby provinces such as Bataan, Mindoro and Islands like Lubang and Corregidor can be seen from afar. It is also surrounded mountains like Mts. Mataas ng Gulod, Marami, Talamitam, Batulao and even Mts. Mariveles and Maculot are still visible.

Hike for Mother’s Day and for the Mother Earth. Pinoy Mountaineer conducted National Mountain Cleanup Day and we would like to support this environmental activity. It is scheduled on May 10, 2014. Unfortunately it will not work for us because everyone working night shift going Saturday. Therefore I opt to schedule it the next day which happen coincided to Mother’s Day Celebration. So I was kind of concerned if I’ll get people to confirm for this day hike climb. By the way, I asked everyone to bring at least one trash bag.

Goup Selfie? Haha.

There were only six people who confirmed for the scheduled hike so I just grabbed some itineraries rather than hiring jeep. Thanks to Mike of ww.mikelaagan.com for sharing your itinery. Surprisingly, I received phone messages coming from friends who just decided joining the event, and since it is open for everyone with no limitation, then it would be great. It turned out that the number raised to eleven plus a four-year old kiddo.

Bay 14 bound for Naic, Coastal Mall Bus Terminal

We met up 4 AM at the Coastal Mall bus terminal, and should go straight to Bay 14 bound to Naic, Cavite. Then you can tell driver that you will be climbing to Pico de Loro and asked to drop you off at Maragondon (Ariel’s Bus Terminal), and by the way that would be the end point so have nothing to worry if you take public transportation, fare is Php 81. Then there will be tricycle terminal piling on the side of the road when you get off and let them know that you will be hiking. And they absolutely know where to take you – to DENR. Trike fare is Php 225/trike and load up to strictly three persons only, therefore Php 75/head.

Arriving at the DENR, everyone is required to register and pay Php 25, and yep there is an increased in registration fee but no worry it will just be 5 pesos. Then you can prepare your hike there, photo ops and get up to protect yourself from sunburn. You can also buy trail food as there is small store where you can register.

(c) Francis Balgos of pala-lagaw.com

The Orientation with the LNT team.

We started our hike around 7 AM. The trail is pretty easy going to Base Camp 1. You will then pass a huge log blocking the trail and it’s perfect for photo opportunist. Hehe. Kidding. When you reach that dead tree, you’re near the Base Camp 1. It’s like about 30 minutes away starting from DENR. Registration is once again required, they are the local authority who maintains the security and cleanliness of the mountain, fee is Php 25.

There is a small store where you can buy souvenirs, food, and cold soft drinks. You can also refill your water bottles for free. In line to Pinoy Mountaineer Cleanup Drive, we were welcome with quick orientation how to help and maintain the beauty of our treasured mountains. Though I'm quite familiar with Leave No Trace practice, yet I encourage everyone to practice these training, not just for us but for the next generation. This orientation is conducted by LNT (Leave No Trace), a worldwide organization that teaches people how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly. Please visit their website for more information, www.lnt.org.

After the said orientation, we then quickly proceed with our climb. Like I mentioned the trail is quite easy, very gradual except in the boulders part which is normal. Every mountain has base camps and there will be assault afterwards that will test your physical strength. Though this mountain is beginners-friendly it will still test your endurance for those experienced mountaineers. But overall, it’s a relaxed climb.

Our Spidey Boy, wearing Superman. :)

Look at our kiddo; he loves to climb assault trail than the gradual track. He loves to use his hands holding on the huge rocks and small trees. Although he is wearing superman, yet he said everyone should call him, Super-Spideyman. Look at his hand and fingers, gesturing like Spiderman throwing his solid webby.

The trail does not need guide, it is straightforward. Just keep on the trail and you will never get lost. And have nothing to worry also because each turn has signage with some arrows that will guide you up to the summit. When you get to the boulder’s and bamboo section of the trail, you will then catching some breath, heavy breathing and sweaty faces will surely attained. And for beginners I know you will be asking how long this climb will last? Haha. I know everyone will ask for it, especially for first-timers, even experienced ones. That happen, its normal, just keep on climbing and you surely get a sweet prize from heaven.

With Sir Francis Balgos, after these trees, please turn right.

Though the trail is straightforward, but when you see these trees right after the boulders section; that is the right for you to turn right, yes turn right! But when you go straight you will see the other side of the mountain which has also a scenic view. And we lost the right turn part; we keep on moving without turning so we reached the other side. The trail is not that clear and but you can see that there is a path, and it’s quite shorter than following the exact trail to get to the camp site. However I advised to just turn right and follow the exact one so you won’t get lost.

This is the other side of the mountain, you'll get here if you didn't right.

We just carry on the trail and follow the uncertain path under the wild bamboo trees; we just use our instinct using signals like clapping our hands. And we also followed the voices coming from other mountaineers, and then we reached the campsite in just a couple of minutes. We take rest for a while and ready for lunch, I suggest for day hikers, bring carpet. The campsite is sandy! There is also a small store there where you can buy 5 gallons of water and cold soda in can in dollar price.

The Monolith, or the Parrot's Beak.

Inner Peace. Hehehe, Kung Fu Panda way!

After our lunch, we are ready again for another challenging getting on the summit, its full assault that would surely test your strength. We left our bags and just bring our valuable items. And then the prize of heaven is right in front of us when we get to summit. One big attraction; a paradise in heaven that you can’t find down the mountains. It’s all worth it; you can see how other provinces looks like from afar, together with Batangas’ best coves and the islands around it.

Our shot before heading to the monolith's top. (c) FrancisBalgos

Getting to summit is challenging, but getting to the Monolith is the most challenging. I know I have all the guts though I won’t deny that there’s always a second thought. However claiming Pico de Loro will never be complete without seizing the Parrot’s Beak. We were divided into two groups so someone would take a picture from the summit and vice versa. I belong to the first group and loud and proud to say that I am the first from the group who snatched the top. Now I appreciate how important the science of counting because one big mistake would surely end your life and always trust the rope. When I reached the top, the feeling is awesome, it’s breathtaking, it’s awe-inspiring, so proud of myself, feels like I am the King of the Kings! And I’m sure everyone feels the same.

The Proud mehh, or feeling mehhh. Hehe. (c)FrancisBalgos

And then everyone had these jump shots of our life. It feels like once in a lifetime over on top of the highest monolith. Thanks to Sir Francis for his power zoom lens.  We stayed there for couple of hours bare from the sun, we were all burnt so I suggest as well bringing umbrella. Then we rested for a couple of minutes after summit, and then proceed to descent.

You can wash up at the DENR for free; don’t worry for the trike that will bring you down to the bus terminal. The drivers are all waiting outside to fetch mountaineers. Also please be reminded that the bust last trip (according to locals) is 7 PM.

ITINERARY AND BUDGET (PICO DE LORO MAY 11/2014)

4:00AM :       Meet up at Coastal Mall Bus Terminal bound to Maragondon Cavite, hopefully we can leave by 5AM. 

7:00AM:        ETA Ternate, take tricycle to jump-off at Magnetic (Php225/3pax = P75/head)

7:45AM:        ETA DENR for Registration. Registration Fee (Php25).

8:00AM:        Start Trek

8:30AM:        ETA Rene Medina Place, another registration for Php25. 

10:00AM:      ETA Base Camp 1

11:45AM:      ETA Summit, Lunch, Photo Ops

1:00PM:        Start descent to Magnetic Hill

3:30PM:        ETA Jump-off point, proceed to DENR and wash up.

4:30PM:        Take tricycle back to Ternate then take bus back to Manila (Trike Php75/head + Bus Php81 = P152)

8:00PM:        ETA Manila.

                        Total Expenses: Php 362.00 per person.

2 CHURCHES: VISITING THE MANILA METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL - BASILICA

The Manila Cathedral is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary as Our Lady of Immaculate Conception located inside the Walled City – Intramuros, Manila. This church with a complete name of The Manila Metropolitan Cathedral – Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is the official seat of the present Manila Archbishop – Luis Antonio Tagle. I’ve been wandering inside Intramuros and visited places like Casa Manila and San Agustin Church for a reason that requirement for school projects but never came in my mind to stop over at the Manila Cathedral. And this made me realized that it should be part in my seven churches visitation.

This is the fourth church after Muntinlupa, Las Piñas, and Parañaque. I was already thinking to take cab from Baclaran Church all the way to Manila Cathedral. Luckily one of the vendors told me that there are FX’s and vans traveling all the way to Intramuros. Then after a couple of minutes waiting on the side of the road under the fiery sun, I saw UV Express van approaching going to Intramuros. I paid Php 25 and thanks to the driver because he brought me right in front of the cathedral.

When I get at the façade of the cathedral, I was surprised by the countless people visiting the church. I was just expecting of local devotees but there were also a huge number of foreign tourists taking pictures and observing holy week in the country. People were coming in and out, there were vendors outside hawking different dollies for the youngsters and photographers with huge cameras hanging on their necks. Getting near the entrance I’m quite amazed with the architecture especially the inscription of the tympanum on the main door.

The cathedral reopened to the general public on April 9, 2014 after two years of renovation, the mass then led by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle attended by President Ninoy Aquino. Upon entering the basilica, the architecture is pretty amazing, the structural design still in line with the original pattern but added with interior LED lightings. These lightings enhance the exquisiteness of the basilica with yellow lights on the pillars. I am also captivated and focus most of my attention by the stained glass windows pinned all over the ceilings and on the sides. It is made of different colors and when the sun focuses its sunlight into these glasses it will surely made some astonishing lights that will envelop the whole church. There are also flat screen monitors that will cover the mass so people at the back can still the ministers in front. 

Manila Cathedral is just one of the places to check inside the rich history of the walled city. Intramuros has monuments and shrines that were witness in the past and yet still standing in the present-day telling the young generation how the people fought to attain the freedom. And so will have to start in the churches of San Agustin and Manila Cathedral. I should visit one of these days to attend mass.

THE MANILA METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL - BASILICA

Cathedral - Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

Address: Cabildo cor., Beaterio St., Intramuros, Manila, Philippines

Telephone: +63.2.527.1796 / +63.2.527.3093 / +63.2.528.3876

Email: mlacathedral@yahoo.com / mlacathedral@gmail.com

Website: www.manilacathedral.org

8 REVISITING JARDIN DE DASMARIÑAS FOR SWEET SUMMER ESCAPADE

Summer is not yet over! I was again invited friends from Deltek to be part of their sweet summer escapade. I think this has become yearly so thank you Contacts People. I don’t feel like drenched from the season’s heat in Metro Manila so I should join. This is not the first time I visited the place so I’m quite familiar already but every stay is absolutely different story. Jardin de Dasmariñas is the perfect place for quick summer escapade, just an hour away from congested Manila. You can spend day or overnight stay for your swimming cravings with family and friends in affordable rates.

Jardin de Dasmarinas Resort and Restaurant is located in Barangay Sabang, Dasmarinas, Cavite. It is seated along Sabang Highway near Parklane and just few minutes away from Dasmarinas Bayan. Since the team brought car so we didn’t have any problem getting there. But for those taking public transportation – if you are coming from Manila, you can ride bus going to DASMA Bayan.  Jasper Jean Bus Lines passing Ayala in Makati and in EDSA fare is Php 55. Another option is UV Express, there are terminals in Pasay Rotonda and MOA fare is Php 60. Alight at Dasma Bayan (which is the end point) then ride jeep with “Imus” signboard, or best option is to take trike for Php40 and it will bring you straight to the resort.

The resort opens at 8 AM, and we arrived an hour earlier. While waiting for the gate to open, we walked outside the resort looking for some breakfast. If you have car, you can bring it inside the resort compound and park it for free in spaces intended for the guests. But I would recommend during summer days better to commute unless you want to pay your parking.

Though we arrived early, there were plenty of people already piling outside the entrance and waiting for the gate to open. It's just a sign that everybody needs refreshments against the sizzling summer heat. You can get the tickets at the small window near the entrance. And in our case, we had no problem because the team is already reserved month before.

Swimming Rates:

Day Tour Swimming (8AM - 5PM)/ Adult - Php150 / Child 3ft. below - Php120.

Overnight Swimming (6PM - 6AM) / Adult - Php250 / Child 3ft. below - Php200. 

Cottage Rates:

Day Swimming - Php400 / Night Swimming - Php500.

Like I mentioned, this is not the first time I visited here. Nothing's changed and the place is still charming as it is, cleaned, and well-maintained. The resort houses 5 pools, 1 is for private. There is Olympic-size pool for the adults with 6ft. the deepest, three pools for the kids with slides in waist line deep and dinosaur miniature that would let the kids experience extreme and memorable summer adventure.

The landscape is well planned, really utmost strategic. You will surely experience the resort and a garden like, there were plenty of plants and trees around the area. It makes the place really beautiful and attractive as the area covered with green and blue pigments. 

Guest can also bring their own food, and grill if they want to..there are spaces anywhere in the resort for grill. Although they're quite strict when it comes to alcoholic beverages, there is a corkage. But you can sneak it as they do not check your backpacks, beer inside is fairly expensive. It's just a matter of diskarte, use your best charm. You can also bring your music box, huge speakers or anything if you wish to have some party like escapade, they're not too strict.  

We maximized our stay and I guess we are the only group stayed for 24 hours. The resort is still alive up until 4 AM. The guests are quite decent compared to any public resorts. And I would recommend this place if you wish to experience perfect summer getaway as it is near from a crowded Manila cities. Summer is not yet over and come check the place. For more inquiries you can call (046) 416 0037 / 0917 - 5028614,  or you can visit the Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/jardindedasma