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A deadline to use my stored flight funds and flight vouchers, or else lose it, had me scampering to book flights for me and my family. We haven’t boarded a plane in two years so this was an exciting activity for me. There were a number of options to choose from but family vacations, when I plan it, needs to have a pinch of adventure. So, I booked us a flight to Cebu to enjoy our first family vacation since the start of the pandemic.  Family vacations should be fun, exciting, and memorable. Badian is a municipality on the southwest side of Cebu province that is popular for its canyoneering activity. The tourism icon of the area is the beautiful Kawasan Falls with its teal-colored spring water. Unfortunately, the province of Cebu was brought down to its knees by supertyphoon Odette, and that included Badian. Our visit was good start to re-introduce the place as it recovers from the pandemic and calamity. 5.17am. Touchdown Cebu. Our one-hour flight went very smoothly from Manila. As we landed in Cebu, I quickly fell in love with the new airport. It evoked a tropical upbeat vibe that excites you. It was early morning so we breezed through the arrival area of the airport. We worked our way from the airport to the city’s South Bus Terminal to catch a bus to Badian.  Touchdown in Cebu. The three-hour trip to Badian was uneventful. The trip treated us with urban and rural views of Cebu. I enjoyed the mix of urban and rural vibe of the cities and the relaxing rustic views of Cebu’s hills and coastal areas. It was a bit gloomy but the trip was relaxing and, since it was my first travel out of Luzon, I was in my element. Cuestas Beach Resort was our home in Badian. It was good that I decided to just stay in Badian for this family trip because Cuestas made our three day vacation a relaxing and memorable one. The resort is a peaceful sanctuary along the coast of Badian with its own beach strip. It has a pool, a jacuzzi, and a couple of huts where you can just chill down and enjoy the calm and peaceful surrounding. They have two kinds of accommodation - the aircon deluxe rooms and the nipa fan rooms. All rooms have a beautiful overlooking view of the resort and the beach.
One thing that we really loved and enjoyed at Cuesta’s was the food!!! Everything we ordered and, even, the breakfast that they served were all good. It was so good that we never tried any restaurant in the area. Highly recommended is their squash soup, sizzling bangus, gambas, burger, and their home-made bread that go with their continental breakfast. Everything that we tried was good and what made it better was the homey vibe of the place. It was our home in Badian. Sardines On The Run and An Unbothered Turtle The weather was still gloomy as we headed out for a full day of adventure on our second day. First on our list was a visit to nearby Moalboal to explore the beauty underneath its waters. Moalboal is a popular destination for divers because of its beautiful and diverse underwater scenes. It is a sanctuary for sea creatures which makes water activities more diverse and exciting.
Our first stop was Pescador Island where we got the chance to enjoy its underwater scene. Initially, the waters scared me a bit after seeing the drop on the side of the island. The initial scare subsided after we started enjoying the beautiful corals, teeming with different kind of fish. We got excited after our guide pulled out a puffer fish from underneath one of the corals. It was a perfect opener for our summer escape.
After about 45 minutes of relaxing and floating around, we then sailed off closer to shore to watch one of the most spectacular nature show underwater - the sardine run. I initially thought that we would be able to watch the spectacle in the middle of the sea and I was surprised that it was closer to the shores of Moalboal. Nevertheless, it was mesmerizing to watch the school of sardines swim in a rhythmic motion, shifting from one direction to another in one choreographed movement. The way I described it was hypnotic. It was a nature shown that I want to see again but I would like to learn to free dive first for a better viewing experience.
From the graceful movement of the sardines, we then moved closer to shore to relaxingly swim with an unbothered sea turtle. This was, by far, the closest and longest encounter that I have had with a sea turtle. My previous encounters had me huffing and puffing as we try to get catch up with this gentle sea creature. This was not the case for this unbothered turtle. It was gently munching on sea grass and, occasionally, go up for air like he doesn’t have a care in the world. It was unbothered by the attention and the excitement of the people around it. It was just doing its thing… well… unbothered.  A quick snap with our sea guides before we went to our next adventure. The quick glimpse of Moalboal was for the books. It was beautiful and enchanting that the place is worthy for a comeback. I will be ready the second time around. The Highs of Canyoneering It was the canyoneering that we came here for in Badian and we were lucky that we were able to do it despite the gloomy weather because of a weather system near the island of Cebu. Canyoneering along Canloab River is the main tourist draw in the area. This high adrenaline activity gets you trekking, clambering on rocks, jumping into the river, and floating in the cold river waters.  Getting ready to conquer the canyons of Badian.
Our adventure started with flying down the zipline over the mountain side and forest covers of Badian from the jump off point. The one minute flight saved us around 20-30 minutes of hike to the river trail. Asher initially wasn’t particularly happy about zip-lining but halfway through, she got the hang of it. The “in-flight” rustic views were amazing and it did give us our intial dose of adrenaline.
They say that it only takes one jump to take away the initial fear of jumping into a raging river. It does. We conquered the Canlaob River as we scrambled on its rocks, swam in its turquoise waters, and leaped alongside its raging cascades. It was an experience that gave us different doses of adrenaline high. Yes, one jump made everything a breeze after.
We saw how much damage Typhoon Odette brought upon Badian. Fallen and uprooted trees lie along the canyoneering trail. Our guide shared that the flooding changed the landscape of the riverbed. Some pre-typhoon canyoneering highlights were no longer in place because of the changed landscape. The damage on tourism facilities became more evident as we approached the famous three-tiered Kawasan Falls. The cliff jump area looked barren and the Badian Dam is missing its ethereal vibe, that I often see in pictures, because of the damaged forest covers around it. The ruins of tourist facilities greeted us as we walked down the trail to view its three cascade. It was disheartening to see the damage but the falls managed to keep the beauty of its turquoise waters that it was known for.  It was a tiring adventure but we were smiling the whole time. It took us more than 4 hours to traverse the “canyons” of Badian. It was already dark, with a little drizzle, when we finally made our way to the main highway. It was a tiring but fulfilling day for us enjoying both nature’s beauty and the aftermath of its wrath. It is slowly recovering and I do plan to go back when the place has fully recovered to again witness its old beauty. Despite the changes, canyoneering in Badian still offers the same thrill and rush amidst a changed landscape. POST TRAVEL NOTES Cebu will always be my happy place and I’m glad it was our first family trip, out of Luzon, after two years of limited mobility. I realized how much I missed riding planes, the thrill of experiencing a new adventure, and making a different kind of memory with the family. As parents, we should make sure that we get to do these kind of adventures with our kids while they are young and, most especially, while we can. The memories that we create, with these adventures, will last as our kids grow old.  Dang! We are definitely back! San tayo sunod? It was also good that we also get to share the adventure with you as Badian re-builds itself. The stories that I am sharing with you now is aimed at encouraging you to go out and explore beyond the usual. Encouraging you to visit destinations that are re-building help speed up the recovery process for the locals. It is a different kind of adventure that go a long way to the community. Go beyond the usual. It was also good that we also get to share the adventure with you as Badian re-builds itself. The stories that I am sharing with you now is aimed at encouraging you to go out and explore beyond the usual. Encouraging you to visit destinations that are re-building help speed up the recovery process for the locals. It is a different kind of adventure that go a long way to the community. Go beyond the usual. Check out our Badian travel adventure on my Youtube travel channel: #ByahengOffTheGrid Badian #StandTogetherPinoy #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: Cebu is a major hub in the country and one can take a flight, or take a ferry, to Cebu City. From the airport, you take a taxi to the Cebu City South Bus Terminal where you take a bus to Bato via Barili. You can ask the driver to drop you off at Badian where you can take a tricycle to your resort. If you are staying at Cuesta’s Beach Resort and Restaurant, you can ask the driver to drop you off at the resort. From the highway, it is just a short walk to the resort. You can book your accommodations through the Facebook page of Cuesta’s Beach Resort and Restaurant. You can arrange your Sardine Run and Chasing Turtles and Kawasan Canyoneering Adventures with Kawasan Canyoneering. You can reach them at (0905) 333 2623 or (0918) 654 4111.
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In the midst of a hot day in March, I decided to make a quick city exploration in the metro. I haven’t really done any urban hike recently and the heat of the dry season wasn’t exactly giving me the eagerness to explore. This time I had to push myself to explore the city dubbed as the “Gateway to Metro Manila”.  We are off to enjoy the sun on this side of the metro - Pasay City! Pasay City was once part of a confederation known as Namayan. Its name “Pasay” was believed to be from the name of the child to whom the former ruler bequeathed the territory. The territory was renamed twice - the first was “Pineda” during the Spanish period and the second was in 1947 where it was renamed as “Rizal City”. In both cases, locals moved to revert it back to its old name. The city blossomed from being a rustic beachside barangay to a progressive city in the metro. It is the city that welcomes you if you are arriving Manila by air. It is also home to one of the biggest malls and the biggest cultural venue in the country. It is a destination that has fused history, culture, and urban vibe in one progressive city. Join me as we go out and explore Pasay! Sta. Clara de Montefalco de Pasay Church Founded in 1864, the Sta. Clara de Montefalco de Pasay Church is the oldest church in Pasay City. It was dedicated to the St. Clare of Montefalco, a saint under the Augustinian order. The city’s dedication to St. Clare started as early as 1611 when Pasay was still under the jurisdiction of the parish of Malate. It was only in 1863 that the parish of Pasay became independent from Malate.  The Sta. Clara de Montefalco de Pasay Church is the oldest church in Pasay City. The church stands majestically sandwiched by the urban architecture of Pasay. Its facade stands out with its stained-glass windows and its three arched doors. The belfry stands adjacent on the left side of the church bearing six bells. Its interesting how the church perfectly blends with the structures around it. The impressive doors of the church opens up to the elegant interior of the church. Its high-ceilings gives the church a fresh and peaceful vibe like a sanctuary. A crucified Christ stands as the altar’s main centerpiece and adjacent are the two saint honored by the parish. The church strictly follow health protocols. It only allows a limited number of church attendees inside the church so make sure that you come early when you plan to hear mass. Pasay City Sports Complex / Derham Park The Pasay City Sports Complex is a sports facility located along the FB Harrison St. The rundown facility has a swimming pool and basketball courts that locals can access. It is also home to some of the local government offices. During the pandemic, it was converted into an isolation facility for COVID patients.
At the front of the facility is the Derham Park. A monument, complete with a historical marker, honoring Manuel Colayco. He was born in Pasay, served the country during World War 2. He died after being fatally wounded during the liberation operations at UST. The monument gives honor to Pasay’s local hero. Bulwagan ng Lungsod ng Pasay The Bulwagan ng Lungsod ng Pasay is the center of local governance of the city. This is where the local officials hold office. The city is governed by a Mayor, with a Vice Mayor who heads the legislative council. The council is composed of 12 councilors and barangay and youth representatives. The city hall stands along the busy FB Harrison Street and most local government offices are within the same area. The modern design of the city hall complements the urban landscape of the city. Although, do not be fooled because the city has a number of historical sites under its wing. School for the Deaf Tucked along the Harrison Street, the School for the Deaf is the only government institution for the deaf in the country. The idea to establish a school to cater to our visual and hearing impaired Filipinos started in 1907 by Dr. Barrows and a deaf teacher Miss Rice. It would become the pioneer in handicap education in the country and in Asia.  The Philippine School for the Deaf is the first educational institution for the deaf and blind in the country and in Asia. The present location of the school was a lot donated to the program. The school was later re-aligned as a separate school for the deaf and was renamed as the School for the Deaf. The school later evolved as a resource and research institution for the deaf. The Henry Hotel Manila Amidst the buzz of the city, there is a unique and serene hotel that was once a post-war mansion. The vintage hotel is popular for its vintage style houses with a touch of art-deco. The sprawling compound is a relaxing sanctuary right smack in the middle of a busy city network.
You would be surprised with how big the property is when you enter its gates. A driveway leads to the main receiving area and the first thing that caught my attention were the plants and trees that surrounded the area. The greens complemented the wooden structures and it gave that homey and peaceful vibe. The Henry Hotel has a restaurant, a pool, and a sprawling garden that its guests can enjoy. It does not give off that hotel vibe but it seems more like a home where you can enjoy a quiet afternoon reading a book or taking a dip in the pool. I think that it is a good place to take a break and detach without living the city. Cartimar Shopping Center The Cartimar Shopping Center is popular among pet lovers because of its pet shop alleys. I have heard about Cartimar but it was only when I heard about a coffee shop that I got interested with checking it out. From FB Harrison, I took a trike to this old-time shopping center in Pasay.
Long before the emergence of big malls, Cartimar was the place to go in the 70’s and 80’s for PX goods and clothes. It was the go-to place of Makati residents for fresh produce. It was once home to 1000 stall tenants with some of these shops getting the lift on their start-up businesses here. The shopping center has lost its vibe after having to compete with the emergence bigger malls in the metro. It still remains to be the preferred area to shop for pets and supplies if one is willing to travel all the way to Pasay. The stalls are still lined with different merchants offering clothes, shoes, and other merchandise. The pet stores, though, have a lot more activity. Some would probably feel nostalgic walking along its alleys but a lot needs to be done to keep Cartimar within the radar of consumers. Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex Initially conceived in 1966, the CCP Complex is one of the legacies left by the former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos. It is an 88-hectare reclaimed land along Roxas Boulevard that was developed as a tourism and cultural hub in Metro Manila. Post-Marcos development saw its expansion linking it to the Bay City project, a 1500-hectare reclaimed land in Manila Bay.  The Cultural Center of the Philippines is the center of arts in the country.
The complex has a collection of 60’s and 70’s structures designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin. At the forefront is the Tanghalang Pambansa that houses the main offices of the CCP and three performing arts theaters - the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino, and the Tanghalang Huseng Batute. This is the most iconic among all the structures as it serves as the “face” of the CCP Complex. At the far end of the CCP Complex is the Tanghalang Francisco Balagtas or more popularly known as the Folk Arts Theater. The theater is a covered amphitheater that can accommodate 8500 spectators. Again, it was designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin and was built in only 77 days just in time to host the Miss Universe pageant in 1974. The concert venue, since then, has hosted various events and concerts of Menudo, Janet Jackson, and local artists.
The Philippine International Convention Center or PICC is another Leandro Locsin-designed building in the complex. It was the first international convention center in Asia to be inaugurated in 1976. It has hosted both national and international business conferences, meetings, and social events. Other pertinent structures in the area is the Manila Film Center, the Sofitel Manila, the Coconut Palace, and the metro’s amusement park Star City. The plan for the area would see the development of 6 areas/clusters that was supposed to be built by phases in 10 years. As of this writing, the project has still to be started or completed. Mall of Asia A trip to Pasay City is not complete without visiting the Mall of Asia. The mall is the largest in the Philippines and the third largest in the world. Located along Bay City, it is home to a total 663 tenants. It also has a sunset promenade, an amusement park, and the MOA Arena.
I am really not a fam of malls but one thing that I love about the SM MOA is its sunset promenade where you get to enjoy the breeze and the views of the famous Manila Bay sunset. The promenade is perfect to catch the sunset after a full day of going around the mall or before catching up with friends over dinner. One thing that I would like to try though is watching the sunset while aboard the MOA eye. Anyone willing to join me? POST TRAVEL NOTES From a seaside barangay to a progressive city, Pasay City has grown leaps and bounds through the centuries. I guess it is one of those cities who have lost its old town charm as it embraced development and progress. Don’t get me wrong, the city still has pockets of history but the vibe that managed to get fused with its development is from the 70’s and 80’s. One thing that is distinct though was how Pasay has managed to fuse history, artistry, and urban vibe in one city.  We are getting a complete summer thrill this 2022! #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Exploring the metro has given me a glimpse of how cities embraced progress. While some managed to keep the old town charm, there are those that managed to completely embrace development that it gave the city a different personality. It’s these changes and fusion that make each destination unique and it is that unique trait that attracts more travelers to visit. What makes your place different? #StandTogetherPinoy #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: You can take the LRT 1 and go down at the Libertad Station in Pasay City.
PAGASA already declared the start of the dry season so we are now expecting hotter days ahead. This is the time when most of us have started planning out our beach trips or has probably been to the beach to enjoy a nice cool down. I mean… with 7641 islands (not 1700), hitting the beach is the first thing that comes to mind when we start feeling the heat, literally and figuratively. Every corner of the country, with our long coast line, has a beach spot for every kind of traveler.  Thinking of where to go to beat the heat other than the beach? BUT… the Philippines is not just about beaches. There are destinations in the country where you can find a nice and cozy spot to cool down. Here are 5 “summer” destinations near the metro to help you beat the metro heat! 13 Waterfalls, Dona Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan Head up to the rustic side of Bulacan and enjoy the cold spring waters of Dona Remedios Trinidad. This part of the province remains largely unexplored and, thanks to the pandemic, its natural attractions are starting to get the attention of local travelers. DRT is the largest municipality of Bulacan and lies along the Sierra Madre mountain range. Its rugged terrain is a treasure trove of natural wonders that is waiting to be explored.  Finding my own jacuzzi spot at DRT's 13 Falls. 13 Waterfalls is just one of the many waterfalls that you can find in DRT. It also happens to be my favorite because it gives you a complete adventure of having to clamber through rocks and hike on trails to get to see the 13 “waterfalls”. The “waterfalls” are actually a series of water cascades that flow along Sapang Adarna. The falls located higher up the trail are more noticeable compared to those found downstream. The great thing about trekking through 13 Waterfalls is that you can always take a quick dip in its cold waters to cool you down along the trail.
The adventure is tiring but totally fun. Be forewarned though that the trek can be a bit of a challenge. Don’t expect to see grand cascades because only certain waterfalls will give you that amazing view. Some of it go unnoticed and that makes the whole experience exciting because you all end up counting less or more than 13 Falls. Check out the full blog here: Dona Remedios Na Yan! You can also checkout my travel video blog of 13 Waterfalls here: #ByahengOffTheGrid Done Remedios Trinidad Tinipak River, Tanay, Rizal Here is another adventure that will have you huffing and puffing before you get to enjoy the cold waters of one of the cleanest rivers in the country. Just two hours east of the metro, Tanay has become a favorite day and weekend destination with its diverse tourism activities.  The white limestone formations of Tinipak River was the first to attract travelers to this part of Tanay.
Tinipak River was the first to catch travelers’ interest on this side of Rizal. The white limestone formations of Tinipak was a natural wonder that got everyone amazed. The view and a dip in its cold waters was a perfect way to cool down after the hour trek from the jump off point or after climbing up the adjacent Mount Daraitan. There is also a cave that you can explore where its spring waters flow into Tinipak River.
Tanay’s tourism has developed from off-beat spots to a destination that offers diverse activities that cater to any kind of traveler. It has become an all-year round destination that will surely quench your thirst for adventure. But nothing really beats enjoying the summer views and the cold spring waters of Tinipak River. Check out the full blog here: Wow Tinipak! Buruwisan Falls, Siniloan, Laguna Situated along the Sierra Madre mountain range , Siniloan is another destination that will cool you down from the summer heat. Its waterfalls and green covers cools you down, the natural way. Of course, part of the process is getting you all muddied up first.  Buruwisan Falls is a perfect spot to cool down this hot season. The Buruwisan Falls experience allows you to enjoy walking through the forest covers of Siniloan and giving you that refreshing dip in its cold waters. There are, at least, three waterfalls that you will get to enjoy along the trail. The most majestic is Buruwisan Falls that cascades at a height of 180 feet. The view of its drop while getting refreshed by its cold water is the perfect way to end the hike before heading back to its muddy trail.
The eastern side of Laguna is perfect for chasing waterfalls. It is tiring but exciting because it gets you all muddied up first before enjoying a cool wash down. If you are the type who loves the gentle flow of cold water on your skin, Buruwisan Falls is a perfect spot for you. It warms you up before cooling you down. Check out the full blog here: Mount Romelo: A Peak and Chasing Waterfalls You can also checkout my travel video blog of Siniloan here: #ByahengOffTheGrid Siniloan Isla Maria, Cavinti, Laguna Isla Maria re-defines the phrase “stranded on an island”. Located along the waters of Lumot Lake, Isla Maria is a private island that you can enjoy for the weekend. It is just one of the many island lakes in the area where you can enjoy the rustic vibe.
Isla Maria gives you that unique experience of getting marooned on an island. You get to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature throughout your stay - from the morning sounds of the gentle slushing of lake waters to the rustling sounds of leaves in the afternoon to the cricket sounds at night. You also get front seats as you watch the sun setting down the horizon. You can also enjoy a cool dip in the lake or enjoy canoeing down its still waters.
Lake Lumot is a perfect spot to unwind. You get to enjoy cooling down while enjoying the sun. You get to experience the rural vibe by boating around and/or fishing out tilapias for your next meal. It is great place to beat the heat while it slows you down. It is simply perfect. Check out the full blog here: Isla Maria: Re-defining Island Living Pandin Lake, San Pablo, Laguna The City of San Pablo in Laguna is a destination where you can cool down during the summer. Apart from its cooler weather, the city is also blessed with 7 lakes. Pandin Lake was developed into a tourist attraction where you can enjoy a day adventure enjoying the views and its waters.  The relaxing and rustic beauty of Lake Pandin in San Pablo City.
The whole adventure starts with lunch aboard a balsa as local women maneuvers it across the lake. You get to enjoy a hearty meal as you enjoy the bucolic scene and the fresh air. The balsa is then anchored onto the side of the lake where you can choose to just relax on the balsa or jump into its cool waters. The still waters of the lake provides a good escape from the heat. A perfect way to end a roadtrip in Laguna before heading back to the metro.
San Pablo is a perfect getaway to escape the heat. Its location, along the foothills of Mount Banahaw give it a cooler weather. You can choose to explore the 7 lakes of the city or to simply enjoy a slow and laidback vibe that the city has to offer. Check out the full blog here: Road Tripping Majayjay-Liliw-San Pablo POST TRAVEL NOTES The dry season spells out beach plans for most Filipinos especially for those in Metro Manila. This is the time when most people would complain about the metro heat but would not mind the heat while on the beach. But beyond our coastlines, we also have inland destinations, like these 5 destinations, that can help us beat the heat and it ain’t the beach.  San tayo dadalhin ng init? Abangan. Philippine tourism is starting to pick up after the lowering down of the alert level across the country. People are now itching to travel and it was nice to see that we are seeing the influx in popular destinations. But let us also remember that there are also other lesser known destinations that is worth exploring and discovering. Let us explore beyond the usual, byaheroes! #StandTogetherPinoy
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Marc del Rosario
I believe in education, entrepreneurship, and caring for the environment. 
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