Quezon City: Hilera and Franco at 70's Bistro

A week before watching Parokya Ni Edgar gig, my officemates Ahmster and Marco, asked me if I want to watch Hilera and Franco's gig at 70's Bistro.  I didn't think twice of course.  Franco has been one of my favorite bands for quite sometime now and watching them perform live will be a great experience for me.

Quezon City: Experiencing the North Pole Christmas in SM North EDSA

December is already here, and in the Philippines, most Filipinos are looking forward with this month to enjoy Christmas.  Recently, I got a chance to visit SM North EDSA's The North Pole experience and explore their displays placed in Sky Garden.  Their idea was to bring Santa in here to make our malling experience a different one.  Photoshoots are free, so grab your camera, and pull out your family and friends to visit SM North EDSA.  It was a fun moment to see a lot of kids and kids at heart taking photos around.  This is where I say, you don't need to spend a lot to make your kids and loved ones smile. :)

Quezon City: Gloc 9 and Parokya Ni Edgar at 70's Bistro

It was one Monday night of October, when Gloc 9 and Parokya ni Edgar hit the stage of 70's Bistro. I'm one of the many Filipinos who grew up with a lot of Parokya ni Edgar songs.  Almost everybody's a fan, not only because of their great songs but they also manage to stay intact after all these years, where at this point, new bands come into the mainstream continously, and old band members tends to go on separate ways.

It took us almost a year, yes, almost a year, before I was able to watch their gig in 70's Bistro haha. Why?  I was kind of hesitant because of their usual Monday schedule at 70's Bistro, where I still need to get up early for the next day's work.  But upon watching Franco a week before their gig, I realized, whoa, I can manage the puyat pala (sleepless night). Hehe.

Caloocan City: My 30-minute Photography at La Loma Cemetery

As you know, Philippines celebrates All Soul's Day where Filipinos, mostly catholics visit their loved one's grave in remembering and showing how they care to those who passed away.  Because Nov. 1 is a regular holiday (All Saint's Day),  it follows Nov. 2 (All Soul's Day),  so this is the time they visit their deceased friend or family. 

2D/1N Trip to Quezon during Pahiyas Festival - Itinerary and Expenses

Part 3: Trip to Quezon Day 2 - Kamay ni Hesus & Colorful Pahiyas Festival in Lucban

The most awaited moment for me in Lucban has come.  Pahiyas festival has been one of the most favorite festivals been frequently visited held every 15th of May. 

Part2: Trip to Quezon Day 1 - Night Before Pahiyas Festival in Lucban

Pahiyas Festival is one of the famous festival in Quezon, to honor San Isidro Labrador.   It is the farmers' thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest with a grand display of colorful rice wafers, fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts adorning every house in the town. Check out WikiPilipinas for more info.  I was really curious and looking forward on what to see the night before the feast as they say that those who participated in house decorations for Pahiyas festival, are also putting lights for people to see.

Part1: Trip to Quezon Day 1 - Kwebang Lampas / Puting Buhangin aka Lukang Beach in Pagbilao

After getting high from the Panagbenga festival in Baguio (which is being held every February), I then tried to look out for another festival which fits my budget.  Wondering what's in Pahiyas festival, made me push this trip.  Unlike other festivals, Pahiyas in Lucban Quezon has a fixed date yearly - which is every 15th of May.  Luckily, May 15, 2011 is a Sunday so we didn't have problem on getting a vacation leave. 

Northern Luzon Lighthouse Tour on October 27-30, 2011 by Illuminati Tours

If you're looking for a unique heritage tour, why not join Illuminati Tours on their upcoming Northern Luzon Lighthouse Tour!

How To Apply Online For Philippine Passport - Powered by Teleserv

I've never been out of the country yet,  but I guess getting a passport is very important for anyone not just by going for a vacation, but also it serves as a valid identification card for most establishments.  So the question is how to apply for Philippine passport?   Here's how:

Camarines Norte: Pacific Kaos - Surfing and Skating Competition in October

This coming October, a grand surf  and skate competition is about to happen in Bicol Region.  For surf and skate addicts, here's your chance to show your talent now!  I've tried surfing and I totally love it so I highly support this one and hoping this to be a successful event.  Kudos to the people behind this for their love in their craft, an event that will gather great surfers and skaters around the country, and hopefully from other parts of the world.

NEWS ALERT!  I would like to inform everyone that this year's surfing and skating competition is cancelled.  This is too bad :(  I hope it will be a bigger event next year. 

Cebu: Old School Meets New School Photowalk by 1up2down Photography

If you're on Cebu this coming August 13, 2011, and looking for something to do, why not join an open photowalk brought to you by 1up2down Photography.  I am not affiliated with them but I highly think this is worth sharing. This is open to anyone, with any kind of camera you have.  

Manila Bay Cruise via Sun Cruises

It was one sunny afternoon that we were given a chance to try the cruise, of course thanks again to Sir Ivan Henares for the opportunity.   After our Corregidor trip, we took a rest for a while then were up for the first sailing!

My 7 Links: The Happy Path

It's time for me to do the My 7 Links. Chic magnet Marky Ramone Go of Nomadic Experiences, chinese hottie Josh Uy of Intsik Boy, and mister-lucky-guy Chinchan of Juanderful Pinoy nominated me to do the 7 links of my most memorable posts. My 7 Links Project is initiated by the Tripbase to unite travel bloggers around the world  in a joint endeavor to share lessons learned and create a bank of long but not forgotten blog posts that deserve to see the light of day again.

I took a stop to post some backlogs and give way to reminisce some of my interesting posts.  I admit that I'm not a writer, but this blog started due to my motivation to help future travellers, as I felt I owe it during my early days of travelling, hence, it's payback time.

What's in my list?!

Where to Stay in Laoag - Hotels and Inns

Here are my list of Laoag accomodations for your preference
Prices may change without prior notice.

Where To Stay in Vigan City - Hotels and Inns

I've made a list of  Vigan Hotels and Inns that might be of help.  You may opt to choose a heritage hotel to feel the ambiance of old houses while staying on it.  Most of it are just few blocks away from Heritage Village/Calle Crisologo, therefore it is just walking distance and would lessen the transpo on visiting other spots in Vigan, but expect that the convenience on staying here means expensive. Some hotels/lodge/inns are outside Heritage Village/Vigan proper and would need a tricycle ride to reach Calle Crisologo, and probably these are not heritage hotels but rates are definitely cheaper.

3D/2N Complete Itinerary of Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Tour

Here's our itinerary and expenses in our Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Tour.

 from gel's cam

Part10: Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Day3 - Bangui Windmills on our way to Laoaog Airport

Its time for us to bid goodbye to this beautiful land.  Before checking out, we took this chance to take some pictures with the place, and with Ate Cathy & Kuya Arnel. 

Saud Beach, the view few meters away from Cathy's Homestay

Part9: Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Day3 - The Best of Pagudpud North Tour!

Bangui windmills from Saud Beach

"Tatak Rizal" - Celebrating Jose Rizal at 150th Birth Anniversary

Because of his great contribution and genuine concern to the Filipinos, Jose Rizal became the Philippines' national hero, known even outside the country.

Part8: Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Day2 - Kapurpurawan Rock Formation and Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte

From Laoag, we head our way to Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.  Before heading to Saud Beach where we planned to stay, we still have time to check some famous destination in Ilocos Norte.

Part7: Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Day2 - Revisiting Pagudpud

Pagudpud has a special place in my heart.  This is considered as one of my very first trip, my very first blog in my multiply account way back in 2008.  My blog there is already inactive so I'll just share a quick pagudpud experience 2 years ago which turned out a blessing in disguise.

Part6: Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Day2 - Places to See in Laoag

Our second day in Ilocos is just about to start.  After our pasalubong stop over in Marsha's we're on our way to Laoag!

Part5: Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Day2 - Off to Laoag

Planning a trip with group was never easy.  As an addict traveller, I wanted to make sure that most of the tourist spots will be visited, since we only have a limited time.  Our second day will be a trip to Laoag City, the capital city of Ilocos Norte then an overnight stay at Pagudpud.

Corregidor Island: The AdvenTour Challenge

Corregidor Island also known as "The Rock" is a tadpole-shaped island that used to be a military headquarters of Philippine and American forces.  Although Corregidor is near Bataan Province, there's always a misconception that the island is part of it, when in fact it is within the province of Cavite City. It's a must-see place indeed especially to people who would love to go back to old times without going too far, and witness the ruins that once became our defense.

Part4: Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Day1 - Heritage Village at Night and Dinner at Cafe Leona

Heritage Village at night shouldn't be missed as well.  From Casa Teofila Lodge, we took a tricycle to Calle Crisologo again, to witness the beauty of night lights of Heritage Village. (Fare: Php40/tricycle)

Part3: Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Day1 - The Ultimate Vigan City Tour

We have the list of places to visit,  but somehow we were clueless on which to go next.  Asking one vendor from the calle crisologo, she suggested to continue walking to reach the Crisologo Museum.

Part2: Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Day1 - Breakfast at Cafe Uno and Exploring Calle Crisologo in Vigan City

Everybody's hungry so we took a tricycle to Cafe Uno. 

Part1: Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud Day1 - Sleeper Bus Experience and Arrival in Vigan City

After few weeks of planning day and night, seeing the beauty and heritage of Ilocos Region was a blast!

Trip to Calatagan, Batangas: 2D/1N Complete Itinerary

Our Itinerary and expenses during our trip to Calatagan, Batangas

Trip to Calatagan, Batangas Day2: Exploring Coral Shores Beach, Foodtrip at Kainan sa Dalampasigan and Empanada Royale

Day 2. Everyone slept late. I was fortunate to wake up around my normal body clock (7:30am) as  I really to wanted to explore the beach more to take some pictures. I go out and  noticed a far spot with lots of people so I decided to go that way.

 

Trip to Calatagan, Batangas Day1: Blue Waters Calatagan Beach House and Coral Shores Beach

Batangas has been one of the most accessible summer beach getaway from the busy streets of Manila. My friends from work were loving to get out and have fun swimming at a beach so in one week's time we were eagerly looking for a place to stay. Considering some of my officemates will be bringing their family with them, Batangas is one of the best options which is only three hours drive from Metro Manila.

Sandari Forest Trekking Adventure for May 7, 14 and 21 at Mount Batulao in Nasugbu, Batangas

If you're still thinking where to go next month, why don't you try Forest Trekking Adventure c/o Sandari Batulao with family and friends.  Sandari Batulao is a 800-hectare promising housing develeopment at the foot of Mount Batulao in Nasugbu Batangas. What's good about them is they tend to promote the different plants species, shrubs, and gigantic trees.  A forest guide will be on hand to facilitate the trek, provide information about the plant life within the habitat and help maintain the safety of the participants.   The event is free, no registration fee for joining so take this opportunity to embrace the lush & green picturesque view of Mount Batulao.

 

Philippine International 2nd Pyromusical Competition in SM Mall of Asia March 12, 2011 - Australia and Philippines

My friends from QCPC asked if anybody wanted to go to the 2nd Pyromusical Competition at SM Mall of Asia last March 12, 2011.  There are lots of participating countries but I think most of them wanted to support Philippines (Hep hep hooray! Support our own!)  which is scheduled on that day back to back with Australia.  I couldn't resist the chance of watching fireworks so I jumped in.  First plan was to buy tickets for the VIP area, but sir Jonathan suggested to try a different spot. 

Complete 2D/1N Itinerary During Baguio's Flower Festival Panagbenga 2011

Here's my itinerary during the festival

 

Part2: Baguio Flower Festival 2011 Day2 - Panagbenga's Grand Float Parade

It was 5am in the morning when we woke up to prepare for the Grand Float Parade on our 2nd and last day in Baguio. we're still sleepy but we need to get up to have a good spot in session road.  We decided to check out from North Pine in this ungodly hour because we knew it's hard to take a cab those days if we plan to go back.

Part1: Baguio Flower Festival 2011 Day1 - The Panagbenga Experience

It was end of last year when we decided to visit the yearly festival in Baguio for February 2011.  We knew that there will be lot of locals and tourists who are going to watch the grand street parade and grand float parade, so as early as December, I've been getting information about it.

Zambales: Mount Pinatubo Trekking via Capas Tarlac

Mount Pinatubo is an active volcano in Luzon strategically located in the borders of Zambales, Tarlac, and Pampanga. Its volcanic eruption in 1991 made a big impact in the Philippines' history with regards to natural calamity. I remember that earthquake was felt to some Luzon provinces and most of our Aeta people were vastly affected.  Afterwhich this occurence at Mount Pinatubo created a very very beautiful crater lake booming their tourism industry. 

18th Travel Tour Expo 2011 at Mall of Asia

To all travellers out there, don't miss the chance to visit the 18th Travel Tour Expo for this year starting tomorrow!  Lots of surprising sale and promo on hotel accomodations, tours, airline seatsale and a lot more! 

Entrance Fee:
Php 50.00 - General Admission
Php 20.00 - Senior Citizen

Date:
18 to 20 February 2011

Venue:
SMX Convention Center Halls 1, 2, 3 & 4,
Seashell Drive, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

Opening Hours:
18 February - Friday
10 AM - 9 PM

19 February - Saturday
10 AM - 9 PM

20 February - Sunday
10 AM - 7 PM

Ticket booths close 30 minutes before end of show hours

Accompanying Events:
Daily Raffle Draws, Entertainment & Games and Exhibitors' Presentations & more surprises

Check PTTA's (Philippine Travel Agencies Association) website for more info.
http://tte.ptaa.org.ph/abouttte.php

Check this out and happy travels!!

Baguio City Panagbenga Flower Festival Schedule 2011

Panagbenga Flower Festival is on!  I've been wanting to visit Baguio for the Panagbenga Flower Festival and this year's festival is my chance!  The highlight of the parade is on feb26 -27, 2011 for the grand street and float parade.

photo source: http://www.squidoo.com/panagbenga

Baguio City's Panagbenga Flower Festival schedule for 2011

February 1, 2011 - Grand Opening Parade
February 1 - Mar 6, 2011 - Market Encounter
February 12, 2011- Let A Thousand Flowers Bloom
February 13, 2011 - Pre-Valentine Event & Fluvial Float Parade
February 26, 2011 - Grand Panagbenga Street Parade
February 27, 2011 - Grand Float Parade
February 28 - March 6, 2011 - Session Road in Bloom
March 2, 2011 - Pony Boys Day
March 3, 2011 - Central North Luzon Tourism Fair
March 6, 2011 - Grand Closing Ceremony & Grand Fireworks Display (Flowers in the Sky)

Things to remember:
Buy your bus tickets to Baguio now!
Book your hotel/inn accomodation!
Grand street & float parade is usually at early morning so you can always have sidetrip to other tourist spots in Baguio!

I'll blog my experience soon!

Part10: Bukidnon-CDO-Iligan-Camiguin Trip Day4 - White Island, and other tours in Camiguin

My Bukidnon-CDO-Iligan-Camiguin series is about to end. Yey! On our last day, our plan is to visit White Island in the morning then take a peek at Katibawasan falls, and Giant Clams Sanctuary after.

Part9: Bukidnon-CDO-Iligan-Camiguin Trip Day3 - Pabua Cottages and Half Day Camiguin Tour

Hello Camiguin! Kuya Chris dropped us at Pabua Cottages which is almost 30-45 minutes from the port so we could leave our bags before we start our tour.

Part8: Bukidnon-CDO-Iligan-Camiguin Trip Day3 - Camiguin Transportation and Ferry Schedules

Camiguin Island is known as the "Island Born of Fire", because of its seven volcanoes that eventually creates a lot of natural areas to discover and explore.  It is said to be the home of lanzones (lansones) too,  a small grape-sized tropical fruit grown all over the island, in which Lanzones Festival occurs every October. Truly this island has a lot to offer, that's why we alot our 2nd and 3rd day here. :)

Part7: Bukidnon-CDO-Iligan-Camiguin Trip Day2 - Timoga Spring Pools in Iligan

Around 3:30-4pm, we decided to finish our Tinago Falls adventure and proceed to Timoga Spring Pools. Again, we texted our habal-habal/motorycle driver to pick us up and in just a few minutes, viola! He's there! Upon reaching the Timoga Spring Pools, we paid Kuya Jun around Php300.00 for our ride for two but I think you'll save a lot if you take jeepneys and just take habal-habal ride to Tinago and Mimbalut Falls (see my previous post for transportation details: http://adventurousfeet.blogspot.com/2011/01/part5-bukidnon-cdo-iligan-camiguin-trip.html).

Part6: Bukidnon-CDO-Iligan-Camiguin Trip Day2 - Lechon, Macaraeg-Macapagal Ancestral House and Tinago Fallls in Iligan City

After enjoying the great Maria Cristina Falls, it's time for lunch! We were very hungry so we decided to proceed around Timoga spring pools. Just ride a jeep from Ma. Cristina Falls, ask the driver to drop you off  at Timoga spring pools. It's roughly around 2-4 minutes away from it.  We hired a habal-habal driver which is your other transportation option too,  we texted him to pick us up from Ma. Cristina falls.

16th Hot Air Balloon Festival in Clark Subic 2011

Rise up from your seats and plan your trip to this event! Take note that next month will be the much-awaited hot air balloon fiesta/festival in Clarkfield Pampanga.

Photo by JC Francisco
http://happyredeye.blogspot.com/

Here are the schedule of events for your convenience:

Part5: Bukidnon-CDO-Iligan-Camiguin Trip Day2 - Maria Cristina Falls and NPC Nature's Park in Iligan

It's our 2nd day and we're planning to go falls hopping in Iligan! Falls lovers as we are, we're really excited for this backpacking daytrip!