0 PANGASINAN 2014: BOLINAO FALLS OF PANGASINAN

First, I would like to thank my company for making this trip possible. You really guys understand the need of your employees, to get some refreshment from a nerve-wracking workload.

Straight from night shift, we have to leave early to get there as early as possible. We all know Pangasinan is located in northwest part of the country along Lingayen Gulf facing South China Sea. And it’s quite far from Metro Manila. It would require you to travel for about 4 – 6 hours (private vehicle) to get to this place.

Bolinao Falls is situated in Brgy Samang Norte and it would require you to travel for another 30 minutes in rough road condition from Bolinao town proper. If you are coming here renting a van, make sure the driver and his car is capable running in unpaved-rocky road. I would suggest contacting Mr. Dean Transport Service. This transport service been here and knows how to deal with it.

When we get to this discreet Barangay, people facilitating the parking area welcome us with a huge smile. And to get to the falls, it would require you for another five-minute walk. The fizzy sound of the falls would already give a bit of excitement en route to the falls. And the moment you will see the bluish color of water, the forest like panoramic view, and the people would surely eliminate the weary feeling. 

I hope the pictures would already tell you how beautiful it is.

I learned that there are two or three Bolinao Falls, named after the town. The one we visited is Bolinao Falls 2. There's a registration fee of 30 PHP regardless if you go on swimming or not. I told the collector that we would only stay for an hour but still they require us to pay. Anyway, the small amount of money would help the community to maintain the beauty of the falls.

  

Of course, I love the outdoor activities. Therefore I make it a point that I should be the first person within our group to jump and dive in unknown deep falls. I saw small kids jumping without hesitation so I followed them immediately. I always have the guts when someone did it first.

The feeling is intense, the time is almost noon yet the water is cold as hell. And I love it, really! I think I jumped three times, and glad that some of them within my group dared to jump as well. Like they say, face your fears.

The other groups that we are joined in were coming from Bagiuo and La Union. That was surprising, or I’m just expecting that most of the tour groups should be coming from hustle and bustle City of Metro Manila.  

Just so you know, if you wish to have lunch here, it’s possible. There are nipa huts set up that you can use but I’m not sure if it’s for free. I saw a family prepared for grilled fish and liempo. So I guess this place is so perfect for family vacation.

If you are planning to visit Pangasinan for Hundred Islands, one day is not enough. Make sure to spend two days as Bolinao Tour is also a must. Bolinao Falls is part of this Bolinao Tour package.

Let me hear your thoughts, please comment below.

0 PANGASIAN 2014: EXPERIENCE ZIPLINE AT THE HUNDRED ISLANDS, AN ISLAND TO ISLAND ZIP LINE ADVENTURE

Hundred Islands National Park (HINP) installed its first zip line located in Quezon Island beachfront in 120-meter long that was launched on June of 2014. Now they have opened the newest 546-meter long zip line connecting from one island to another. It’s like flying high like a superman starting from Governor’s Island going to Virgin Island. 

The newest added zip line was launched on September of 2014 that is perfect for thrill seekers.

With the existing water activities at the Hundred Islands, this thrill flying - gravity fueled adventure must also a try . Governors Island has the highest elevation among other islands that’s why it will require climbing in 250-step stairs to get to the view deck. While on the peak of Governors you will have to walk to other side to get to the zip line.

Along the zip line area you will also notice a 15ft statue of St. Joseph the Carpenter that is standing at the edge of Governor’s island. It is an added attraction with a symbol of gratitude by the city. 

At first I was undecided to try but when I confirmed and certain that it is made of high quality systems with the supervision of the experts, then it’s a go go. Besides this is not the first time I have tried doing ziplining that's why I have the guts plus I am loving the heights.

I’m just glad that all of us tried this activity. Though most of them are first timers yet they showed perseverance. They just threw all the fears and experience living the life to the fullest by facing the fears.  

   

It’s really safe because you will be harnessed by two suspension lines, however it’s your choice to zip either solo or by partner. While in the middle of the sea, you will be experiencing turning left and right but nothing to worry it’s just part of the adventure and I guess the law of Physics as well.

Unfortunately it was only a couple of seconds fun-filled adventure and if you got plenty of money, I’m sure you would want to try again. 

  

HOW MUCH IS THE RATE:

As of this writing (November 2014), the rate is 250 PHP per person but according to the staff that I spoke to, when they opened this activity the initial rate was 350 PHP. But due to the demand, and directions of the LGU’s they have lowered and less by 100 pesos. However the rate is not fixed, it would vary depends on the season. Most probably during summertime it will again rise to 350 PHP.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT:

The LGU’s have plans to add additional zip line in the near future. They have planned to make it more exhilarating that passing not just the seawater but the island. They want to build connecting three islands. I’m not sure how it will happen but we will see. If it will benefit to further boost the tourism in the province then I would suggest to provide such interesting activities.   

Let me hear your thoughts, please comment below and feel free to share this fun-filled activity.