Captivating Capiz

Published on Sunday, 21 October 2012 21:17

Written by Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo / Special to the BusinessMirror

SEAFOOD capital of the Philippines. Aswang capital of the world. Now who can beat Capiz?

Okay, that bit about the aswang, a mythical Philippine ghoul, was a joke—I have never seen one, nor has anyone from the province I’ve spoken to. But if seafood and serious downtime are your game, then Capiz is for you.

While it offers the usual amenities of a progressive city (e.g., a mall, cable TV and Internet services, a fast-food chain and banks), it still remains laid-back. Life in Capiz, even in its capital Roxas City, is generally tranquil—it will fulfill any tourist’s wish of just kicking back and relax.

There are of course many things to do in Roxas City if one wishes a place of activity. There are new spots of excitement in terms of sports bars, discos and clubs with live bands. Visitors who are also curious about art, culture and history of the province now have museums to go to. Foodies will immensely enjoy the variety of seafood that the province has to offer, at prices so unbelievably low you will never probably get up from the dining table!

ENJOY GOOD LIFE + INVESTMENT, CLICK HERE     

MUST-SEE's

• The beginnings. Ang Panubli-on or the Roxas City Museum on Hughes Street, Roxas City (T#  036-621-2070 ), was initially built as a water reservoir. It has since been turned into a museum housing artifacts from Capiz’s ethnic groups. The museum also  displays photographs of outstanding Capizeños like the late Manuel A. Roxas (the country’s first President), and of various churches in Roxas City and the entire Capiz. It also showcases  antiques and heirloom pieces owned by locals.

TO-DO's

• Island hopping. Visit Olotayan Island, which styles itself as Capiz’s own Boracay, albeit with a coarser white sand. It’s about 45 minutes away by banca from the Barangay Banica wharf, and has been declared a marine sanctuary to preserve the island’s fragile marine resources. Swimming and snorkeling are definitely a must-do on this island, as well as languid picnic lunches with great conversation fueled with ice-cold beer. Day tours are advised although one can stay on the island as well in bare bones cottages (T#  036-621-1058  for inquiries). Magatalihan and Napti Islands are also ideal for diving.

• Spelunking. There are a number of caves all over Capiz worth exploring. The most popular among avid spelunkers are the Sohoton Cave in the municipality of Jamindan and Pilar Caves in Pilar.  Those who want an easier trek  can try Igang Cave in Maayon. The Suhot Cave in Dumalag is also another popular destination because of its cold springs. (Call the Capiz Provincial Tourism Office at T#  036-621-0042  to assist you in arranging spelunking trips.)

• River cruise. Take a cruise down the Cadimahan River and be serenaded as you take in the scenes of rural Capiz. Get a foot spa or whole body massage as well. Best of all, by taking this river cruise, you help support the rehabilitation of the river and give alternative jobs to local fishermen. (For inquiries, call T#  036-621-5918  or CP#  +63912-8516477 .)

Call Timeline Travel and Tours (T# 520-7036/ CP#  +63917-4974422 ) to arrange a sunset cruise down Panay River, fishing expeditions, island hopping, as well as other local tours.

WHERE TO STAY

• In the city proper, choose Roxas President’s Inn (T#  036-6210-208 ) on Rizal and Lopez Jaena Streets. It is an affordable boutique hotel and a consistent favorite among business executives and even TripAdvisor members. All suites have Wi-Fi connection.

• If you want to wake up to the sound of the surf every morning, check out Baia Norte Beach Club Hotel (Tabai Grande, Baybay/ T#  036-621-2165 ). Basic air-conditioned rooms, but with friendly staff. Its restaurant serves fresh seafood.

• San Antonio Resort (T#  036-621-6638 ) at Barangay Lawis Baybay  is just a five-minute walk across the road from the beach and has more upscale facilities like a large swimming pool and three restaurants. The rooms are clean and spacious while staff are certainly accommodating. It offers a number of tour/travel packages to fit the lifestyle of each guest.

Getting there: Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific fly from Manila to Roxas City daily. For more on Capiz, click http://www.capiz.gov.ph.

When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs.

Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City together with your own parking space at the low amount of only P12,000.00+ and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

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In Photo: The biggest bell in Asia can be found at the Santa Monica Church in Pan-ay, Capiz, just 20 minutes from Roxas City, the provincial capital. The tolling of the bell can be heard from many miles away. (Nikka A. Policarpio)

The Island-Hopper's Guide to El Nido, Palawan

By Clara A Buenconsejo

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Staying at a resort in Palawan and wondering where to go island hopping in El Nido? Here's a quick guide:

Cadlao Island

With a land area of 10.06 sq km, it is the biggest island in El Nido, and also the closest to the town proper. Cadlao Island is primarily known for its white-sand beaches, such as Bocal Point and Paradise Beach on the southern side, and Sabang Beach in the northeast. It is also where the highest peak in El Nido can be found, measuring 640 m high.

Pinasil Island

Previously the haunt of the busyador - or a gatherer of bird's nests - this island is known for a massive cavern that's only accessible by kayak.

Matinloc Island

Locals would often say that this island was the inspiration for Alex Garland's novel, "The Beach," and the movie of the same name. And it's easy to see why. On top of its breathtaking beauty, the only way to the appropriately named Secret Beach suggests as such. Inaccessible by boat, divers need to swim underwater through a small gap in the rock wall to access it.

Dilumacad Island

Also known as Helicopter Island because of the shape of its limestone cliffs, it has a 300-m long white sand beach. It is a popular stop for island-hopping trips.

Miniloc Island

Other than being the site of one of the first resorts in El Nido, Palawan, it is also popular as a diving spot and for its limestone lagoons. Believed to be caves that have collapsed millions of years ago, these lagoons - notably the Big and Small Lagoons - are home to various marine species.

Pangalusian Island

This island's claim to fame is its long stretch of powdery white sand, said to be one of the widest in El Nido. It is also popular for snorkeling and diving, as various coral reef clusters are located around the island. So when heading here, make sure to get equipment from a reputable dive rental in El Nido, Palawan, to fully explore its turquoise waters.

Vigan Island

It is also known as the "Snake Island" for the s-shaped sandbar off its shores that's only visible during low tide. Located near Pangalusian Island, this rock has various shallow swimming areas.

Lagen Island

This island is home to a trail of the same name, which is said to be one of the best sites for bird-watching in the area. Another attraction is the Leta-Leta Cave, where various ancient artifacts made of stone and shell were discovered. Hence, a stop on this island is a great choice for history buffs staying at a resort in Palawan who want more to just exploring its white-sand beaches.

Clara Buenconsejo is an avid traveler and freelance writer for different travel websites, creating city guides and how-to articles for commuting in different parts of the world. She graduated with a degree in creative writing just a few years ago. Her life mission is to set foot on at least 6 out of 7 continents.

When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs.

Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City together with your own parking space at the low amount of only P12,000.00+ and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Clara_A_Buenconsejo

Wind-swept, captivating Catanduanes

All around are greenery, cloud-draped mountains, a long coastline, rock formations, beach resorts, historical churches and caves

By Amadís Ma. Guerrero

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The tall tale is that the men of Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo were pursuing pirates operating in the Bicol Peninsula in 1573, whereupon they came to the dwelling place of a Datu and his family living in a place filled with flowers.

The flowers were called “burac,” subsequently changed to “birac.” And that is how the area became Virac, the capital town of Catanduanes.

Wind-swept, captivating Catanduanes, a big island province known for its frequent storms emanating from the Pacific Ocean and Puraran Beach, a byword among Filipino and foreign surfers, is easily among the most scenic provinces in Bicolandia, a region known for its natural beauty.

The province is a three-hour ride via Ro-Ro vessel from the Bicol mainland, entry point being the Port of Tabaco City, Albay.

All around are greenery, cloud-draped mountains, a long coastline, rock formations, beach resorts (check out TwinRock), two historical churches (the Virac Cathedral and the enchanting St. John the Baptizer Church in Báto, near Virac, circa 1883); and caves, including Luyang Cave in San Andres, “where natives were choked to death by Moro pirates in the 17th century.”

Places to stay in Virac include Rakdell Inn, Marem Pension House, Midtown Inn and Rhaj Inn Apartelle.

The provincial Governor is Joseph C. Cua, and Vice-Governor is Jose Teves Jr.

Representing the lone district of Catanduanes is Rep. Cesar Sarmiento.

ROCK formations

Catanduanes recently put its best foot forward with the month-long Catandungan Festival 2012, its 67th Foundation Anniversary. The slogan was “Sulong Catandungan sa Matanos ng Dalan,” a takeoff on President Aquino’s “daang tuwid” (Forward Catandungan on the Straight Path).

Highlights were a Kundiman Fiesta, streetdancing by schoolteachers and students capped by a “Festival of Festivals/Showdown.”

To the strains of a traditional Bicolano song, the men and women teachers from the different towns of the province danced the Pantomina, a traditional marriage and courtship dance. There was graceful movement of the hands, the women demure, and the men forceful when the choreography demanded it. There were chants, elaborate bows and mock chases.

In a real wedding reception, the guests were expected to shower money on the happy, dancing couple.

The street dancing of the students was understandably more energetic- frenzied at times—and served as an appetizer for the “showdown.”

With giant props, full costume regalia, drums and bugles, and icons of Mother Mary and the patron saints, the seven contingents showcased their dancing skills as well as the produce of their town (as in abaca, rice or crabs).

They performed key and lively segments from their respective town festivals.

Two contingents—from Viga, the defending champion, and Gigmoto—were nothing short of spectacular. As a judge, I gave slightly more points to the contingent from Gigmoto, if only because of the skill of their dancers and gymnasts.

The other jurors, however, gave the nod to the team from Viga.

My first-ever trip to the off-the-beaten track province of Catanduanes was arranged by the Provincial Tourism Office headed by Carmel Bonifacio-Garcia (0929-3998437). Email tourism_catanduanes@yahoo.com. Bicol Isarog (call Robert, 0917-5939811) has daily trips from Metro Manila (Cubao and Alabang) direct to Virac. Cebu Pacific flies three times a week to Virac.

When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs. Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City together with your own parking space at the low amount of only P12,000.00+ and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

Siquijor: The Island of Fire

By BRAHMA FOZ

The guardian of Siquijor town

Legend has it that Siquijor rose from the sea amid thunder and lightning. As if giving credence to this folk tale, fossils of clams and other sea creatures have been found on the hillsides and interior highlands.

The island's native name was Katugasan derived from “tugas” — molave trees that covered the hills. Siquijor was earlier known to the Spaniards as “Isla del Fuego” (Island of Fire) because of the swarm of fireflies that lit the dark nights.

While some claim that Siquijor’s name came from its legendary ruler of old, Sultan Kihod, the popularly accepted version says that Siquijor came from the native term “Siquipjod”, meaning “the tide is ebbing”. Spanish euphony later dropped the “d” for “r”.

From 1683 to the end of the Spanish occupation, Siquijor was under the ecclesiastical authorities in Cebu, and for some time, was administered politically by Bohol. In 1901, the island became a sub-province of Negros Oriental and remained as such until September 17, 1971 when it became a separate province.

Larena, the ecclesiastical and trading center, was the capital of the island until 1972, when a national proclamation transferred the capital to the town of Siquijor.

I arrived on the island a little after 7 A.M. via Dumaguete City, about 45 minutes away by fast craft. Once my feet were dry, my first order of business was to find transportation, but I was distracted at once by the beauty and the tranquility of the island. Struggling with my three-day pack, I fished out my camera and started snapping photos.

The ubiquitous tricycle is the main mode of conveyance in Siquijor. I had no idea what the protocol was over here when hiring a ride, so I approached the one with a ready and welcoming smile.

Joam, he said his name was, and for PhP900, he can tour me around the island for the day. Not waiting for a response, Joam started prattling away — enumerating the various points of interest on the island. I learned from him that there are two tour packages offered in Siquijor: the coastal tour and the mountain tour. Although geared for a long trek, I decided against the mountain tour — weather was a bit iffy since I left the Port of Dumaguete, and shivering in the cold rain on a mountain camp was not my idea of fun. Not that day, anyway.

Closing the deal, I hopped on his tricycle, but before we drove off to our first destination, he took me to a quaint shop and told me that I need to buy a “pangontra”, reiterating that whether I believe in witchcraft or not, it was still “better safe, than sorry”. No harm in following local beliefs; as they say, when in Rome, do as the Romans do… and for PhP30 a bottle (of what looked like coconut oil with a variety of herbs and sticks inside), not bad. He told me to just keep it in my pocket. Good.

Thus began my journey, an exploration of an island famous (or notorious) for its mysticism — a land of witchery, of spells and chants.

When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs. Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City together with your own parking space at the low amount of only P12,000.00+ and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687
.

A Cebu weekend getaway with something for everyone

If it’s peace and tranquility you are looking for, just take a nice stroll or bike ride at sunset at Plantation Bay

By PJ Enriquez
Philippine Daily Inquirer

4:55 am | Saturday, November 10th, 2012

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WHILE Plantation Bay has a very small beachfront, its 2.3-hectare main lagoon area, which consists of several lagoons
more than makes up for it.

Rain, rain, rain.  I guess the rainy season is definitely not over, since my Columbia raincoat is still getting a good workout. Fortunately, I was able to get away for a few days to the one place which appears to be not generally affected, at least for one weekend.

Another lagoon

I recently escaped the foul weather and headed for the Plantation Bay Resort and Spa on the island of Mactan in the “Queen City” of Cebu.  I was a little hesitant at first, since there was a big event in Cebu, and most if not all the hotels were at full capacity.  I really was just looking for a quiet place to put my feet up.

Fortunately, my fears were laid to rest the minute I got off the hotel car that picked me up.  Located on the opposite end of Mactan Island, Plantation Bay is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, even for Cebuanos.

Spread over 11 hectares, the resort is divided into a series of lagoons,  all interconnected by bridges and pathways.  Accommodations are tucked in nicely between the lagoons to allow you both privacy and easy access to the main facilities of the resort.  It’s kind of like being inside a huge plantation.

Walkways and bridge ways give guests easy access to various parts of the pool making walking around enjoyable

But don’t let that impression fool you; while the French-colonial design of the buildings and layout of the resort give guests the feeling of being thrown back to 17th or 18th century America, guests still enjoy all the luxury and benefits of a modern first class resort.

Family getaway

On the second day I found myself sitting around one of the lagoons, asking myself if this is a place my family could enjoy, especially the kids. I realize that if you are planning a short trip with the family, you will be hard pressed to find a place that can claim to have something for everybody.

Wherever you are in the resort, you will have easy access to water, including four freshwater pools that complement the lagoons

For starters, the different lagoons offer a vast array of activities, from kayaking to snorkeling.  There is even an area with a couple of water slides for the kids.  Naturally, floating around in one of the lagoons on an inflatable with a nice cocktail in your hand is also an option.

Looking for something indoors? Then the game room is a good escape from the hot sun, where you can enjoy playing a couple of games of table tennis, billiards or darts.  For the younger guests, several arcade games are available, as well as a host of board games for a little family fun.

The resort also has a tennis court, archery range and climbing wall for those looking for a little more action on their vacation.

But if it’s peace and tranquility you are looking for,  just take a nice stroll or bike ride at sunset, and you won’t regret it.

Plantation Bay kiddie pool with its water slides provides a safe and fun environment to spend time with your family

A weekend getaway is not complete without treating yourself to a good massage, I always say. The Mogambo Springs, Plantation Bay’s Spa Village, is the perfect way to soothe those aching muscles, or at the very least to  treat your body to a little pampering. Just walk on over from where you are lodged or hop on one of the golf carts that go around the resort for a spa experience you won’t likely forget.

The spa facilities actually take you on a completely different journey.  The entrance resembles that of a cave with an opening at the back where the main spa facilities are located.  Looking through, you can pretend to be an explorer who just found the entrance to the famous Tibetan Utopia, except that it resembles an 18th century Japanese village.

To start with, guests are encouraged to take a dip in their hot spring pool to soothe and loosen the muscles and open up the pores in preparation for your treatment.  You are then guided through the spa village into your own private treatment room, where trained therapist will take care of your every need.

I recommend either the Sports or Thai massages, but whatever you choose, you can be assured of rejuvenation not only for your body, but your spirit, as well.

Themed dinners

Food is not something hard to find at Plantation Bay, as the resort boasts four main dining areas, not to mention the beach where theme dinners are held in the evenings.  For those looking for a light meal or a place to start the evening, Palermo offers tapas and pastas in a rustic Spanish atmosphere.

Kilimanjaro Kafe, which also doubles as the main breakfast area, serves international cuisine as well as local favorites like Cebuano Pochero, Adobo and grilled boneless bangus.

Then for seafood lovers, there is the Fiji Restaurant that claims to serve the flavors of the Pacific Rim.  Here, you will find the freshest seafood served just the way you like it.  But my favorite by far is Café Havanah, where you can find the simplest of comfort food served to perfection.  The charbroiled burger prepared to you liking topped with your choice of toppings, is one of the best I’ve tasted.

For hotdog connoisseurs, you will not be disappointed as Café Havanah only serves the best, giving you a choice of either Hebrew National or Armor kielbasa.  Finally, if you like chili, you cannot leave Plantation Bay without trying out their Tex Mex Chili.  The dish is thick and spicy using large chunks of meat to give it that authentic Texas chili taste.

Of course, given the laid back atmosphere of the place, service can be a little slow at times, even when it is not full, but I think they like it that way.

Getting to the resort is not complicated, as there are flights to Cebu daily from Manila.  Once in Cebu, Plantation Bay is a short 20 minute ride from the airport.

When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs.

Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City together with your own parking space at the low amount of only P12,000.00+. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

Visit www.plantationbay.com.

GLAMPING a.k.a Glamorous Camping at Nurture Spa Village Tagaytay: A Great Weekend Family/Barkada Activity!

GLAMPING a.k.a Glamorous Camping at Nurture Spa Village Tagaytay: A Great Weekend Family/Barkada Activity!

Written By
Frank Ruaya & Mae Ilagan

 Nurture Spa Village Tagaytay introduces GLAMPING aka Glamorous Camping!

When in Manila and looking for a new fun hassle-free outdoor activity for your family and friends, we highly recommend you try Nurture Spa Village‘s GLAMPING a.k.a. Glamorous Camping!  

 Glamorous Camping was initiated by the people behind Nurture Spa Village to offer an entirely new experience for people seeking to spend quality time with their loved ones. It’s also an ideal team-building activity for your company. We know for a fact that camping is really fun, but most of the time, we opt not to do it because of all the hassles of cooking from scratch and cleaning afterwards… instead of spending more quality bonding time together, you end up stressed out in doing all chores!

This is the very reason why Nurture Spa Village thought about Glamping! Here, you can still enjoy the great outdoors minus all the hassles! When you go Glamping here at Nurture Spa Village, they will take care of everything from the tent, firewood and even your bonfire dinner! How cool is that?

During our first vacation at Nurture Spa Village, it was our 1st time to know about whatGlamping was all about so Frank and I looked forward to experiencing this on our next visit! We also thought it would be great to recommend this to our readers as well! Thankfully, we got to invite Badeth and Bea to join us in this wonderful experience! It is actually Bea’s first ever time to camp out so we’re all very excited for her!

Experience a luxurious and comfortable life + affordable rates and plans.

Allow us to show you the happenings during our Glamping activity!

 night time came and it was time for us to start the bonfire! 

 The Glamping includes a set menu for the BBQ by the campfire consisting of sausages, fish, chicken and veggies!

I really had fun with the BBQ dinner! We cooked our own food!

 we all had an unforgettable dinner in front of the campfire! We also roasted some marshmallows while doing our endless chats!

We truly enjoyed quality time together!

 Frank with a beer in his hand! The night was really perfect!

 we also ordered a bottle of wine to celebrate Bea and Badeth’s Birthday!

 I’m really glad that Bea fulfilled her dream on sleeping outdoors!

 as you can see, the tent is complete with cozy mattresses, pillows, blankets, a night lamp and even toiletries…. no wonder nobody wanted to wake up! hihihihi

 I remember waking up hearing the loud sound of the insects and birds… yeah they were loud but felt very very relaxing! I’ve never felt soooo close to nature before! I loved the cool temperature as well! It was like being out in the wild yet feeling so cozy with all the comfy sheets enfolding you, making you feel very safe!

 Of course, every glorious morning deserves a glorious breakfast!

 Beef Tapa for Badeth

 Bacon and Eggs for Me!

 Sausage and Eggs for Bea

 and a Continental Breakfast set for Frank!

 Frank and I have learned to love butter and jams! We always look forward to it each time we travel!

each breakfast set also comes with a bowl of fruit! 

 you may also have fresh buko juice!

Right after that fabulous breakfast, it was time once again for some pampering! EachNurture Spa Experience is never complete without having a treatment!

lounging a bit… 

 it’s also a must to conquer the Reflexology walk! No cheating!

 I think I may have found my niche! lols

 time for a head and back massage

Another thing we love about Nurture Spa Village is that here, you get to loosen up and be a kid again! They got a huge garden and playground where you can play traditional games! 

 it’s also a MUST to enjoy jumping on the Trampoline!

 weeeeeee!!!

 Frank on the swing

 Aside from having fun, you also get to learn so much stuff here at Nurture Spa Village! You’ll learn a lot about nutrition and organic stuff — things that are good for you!

Just right before going home, we had an awesome lunch of course…..

 Pork Binagoongan

 Eggplant Lasagna

 they used eggplant instead of lasagna to make it more nutritious. Reminds me a lot about Moussaka!

 And of course the star of the show…. Every Tagaytay trip MUST have a BULALOExperience!

Here’s Nurture Spa Village‘s very own Bulalo!

We are very thankful for this wonderful experience once again! Happy that we were also able to share it with friends! Nurture Spa Village is truly a place for making great memories especially when you’re in Tagaytay. We definitely made the prefect choice in choosing Nurture Spa Village as our venue to spend quality time together! The Glamping experience was a blast, the food was superb, the treatments were so relaxing….everything was just perfect! Personally, I will never tire of blogging about them because each experience comes with a new surprise… it just gets better and better! Truly a place of goodness and wellness! Definitely one of a kind! 

So when in Manila, we highly recommend you  experience their Glamping activity atNurture Spa Village! I swear you’ll love it!

 Cheers to good health and to a fabulous life!

When in Cebu City, please visit http://gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs. Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City for only P12,000.00/month with your own parking lot. Hurry while the supply of units last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown below.

Tel. No. (053)555-8464/09164422611/09173373687.

NURTURE SPA VILLAGE

Pulong Sagingan, Barangay Maitim II West
Tagaytay City, Cavite, 4120
Philippines

Phone: (02) 584-4228, (02) 584-4221, (046) 483-0804 to 05

Join them on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nurture.spa.village

To know more about our adventures and misadventures, visit us on EATS A DATE!

To read more of our WHEN IN MANILA adventures, click HERE