Travel: Cebu and the Philippines

A new place I call Haven...

There are places here in Cebu that claims to be the best. Well, guess what? Most of them are not. I just discovered a place in Pinamungahan Cebu. The resort's name is Hidden Valley. It offers privacy. A serene surrounding that gives you the chance to be attune with nature. 

"The place is called Hidden Valley. Well, you really have to have that intention to go there because it is hidden. Let's just say the road going there is not that admirable. It is a country side. However, once you reach the resort every inconvenience would melt away. The staff is very friendly (especially the front desk staff Ate Nin). The place being on top of the mountain gives you an unlimited view of green scenery. The air is so fresh. It is so amazing. I did not have to wait for instruction nor a guide. I immediately went to the pool and tried the water. Guess what? It's spring water - fresh and very cold. Ahhh... Heaven! At night you can only hear the sound of nature. The nasty sound of the city cannot reach this place. You would really feel privacy within the bosom of Mother Nature herself."

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ARE YOU READY FOR SINULOG???

picture source: http://www.sinjin.ph/

Sinulog is one of the biggest festival here in Philippines. This is done in Cebu City, Philippines.  Imagine three million people on the street. Dancing and just partying. The event is both religious and WILD. Got nothing more to say than just go out and have some CERTIFIED FUN!!! so are you READY?

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this my country: Philippines

Our Group

The Cottage in the middle of the ocean!

Welcome to Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary. I never imagined that such a place exist in Philippines. I have to admit that if not for my Korean and Japanese friends, I could have never reached this PARADISE. The sight and the wildlife is AMAZING or as my trainer before would put it FANTABOLOUS (a combination of fantastic and fabulous)!!! It is breathtaking. 

We went as a part of an itinerary set for our island hopping trip. At first I thought that the sanctuary would be the regular zoo. So I did not expect too much from it.Having less knowledge about the place, I made some research. Here's what wikipedia would say. 

"Olango Island, situated off Mactan Island in Cebu, is one of the seven best-known flyways in the world for migrating birds. Its main attraction is its 920-hectare Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary,a haven for migratory birds from Siberia, Northern China, and Japan. These birds flock to the island seeking refuge from the winter climate of other countries The sanctuary supports the largest concentration of migratory birds found so far in the Philippines. There are 97 species of birds in Olango, 48 of which are migratory species, while the rest are resident birds of the island."

What you can do there is stand, stare at the greenest Mangrove plantation that I have ever seen. You can also swim if the tide is right. This place would give us a reason why we need to protect Mother Earth. I would love for my child to see this place formed by nature or God!

The price is so cheap if you would consider the knowledge and experience that you will have! Trust me, I did!

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Something amazing yet affordable: BADIAN Beach Cebu

If I am asked as to what is the best beach that I have been to, here in Cebu. I would immediately say, Badian! It is and it has been for me the one that can take ones breath away. Badian is located at the southern tip of Cebu Province. The place is out shined by famous locations like Moalboal, Mactan, and Bantayan Island. Well there are many places that would compete as the best here in Cebu Province. To add to that, if you ask what is the must go to place in Badian most people would say it is their falls (Kawasan). Not being rude, but falls does not appeal to me. I may not be part of TripAdvisor.com or Expedia.com but I know a good beach when I see one. The thing that makes me like Badian beach is the fact that it is undermined. People would stay in Moalboal which is just a couple of kilometers away. Yeah, that place has a lot of good resort - period! The beach is overrated. I have been to Moalboal and have been satisfied. But in Badian, I had an amazing experience. There is another advantage to places that are "undermined", it is not that populated and therefore there is a sense of privacy. It offers solace and very affordable.

The first time that I was in Badian my mouth opened up. I have seen beautiful beaches. I thought that the ones in my province - Eastern Samar were the best! Sad to say I have fallen in love with Badian's white sand and pristine clear blue water.

So if you ever want a beach that is affordable and would offer a bit of privacy then this is the place... Another must see in Cebu...

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THE FIESTA

YUMMMY!

Capitol Employees on Lunch

Patience is indeed a virtue!

on the Menu, delicious!

the food stalls

for the Health conscious, here's another option 

the legendary HANGING RICE!!!

This is a must for anyone who is up for a sense of discovery. The AGRO trade fair exhibit features products from the flung areas of Cebu. This fair allows agro lovers to see, check and buy the product that they want without the long hours on the road spent for travelling. This is a sight to behold since it gives us a chance to connect with nature for a bit - I would say! The fair includes root crops, pottery, fruits, vegetables, house decorations, etc. Basically everything that can be made is here! The good thing about this, is that prices are affordable. Last but not least is the FOOD! Cheap treats for an AMAZING palate experience...

Make this part of your list of things to visit this week. Last day by the way is on Sunday, December 18 2011. 

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THE TREE OF HOPE

A symbol of hope. That is what this flickering tree stands for. I was heading for work when I noticed this today. I mean it has been there. Some news agency even covered its lighting ceremony. But because I was not rushing, I had a good glance at it. It gave me a feeling of joy. That amidst this dark era there are trees that would lighten up our lives. 

The Christmas tree is located in Fuente Osmeña circle. It is really at the center of Cebu! The place was fondly called by locals as "tambayan ng mga yaya" (place where maids and nanny gather). However, today I noticed that there are many people there with their own families. It is such a great sight. A big one I would say. The type that would let your mouth open and be filled with awe. It made a child again. How I wish that my own child was there to share the amazement with me. 

Well, if you happen to visit Cebu in these coming days make the tree a part of your must see. Enjoy!

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