A Day in Siquijor: Exploring the Mystical Island of the Philippines

Have you ever been fascinated by something mystical?

They say that Siquijor Island is one of the most mystical islands in the Philippines — a place filled with legends of healers, enchanted trees, and magical tales. But despite (or maybe because of) its mysterious reputation, this island has become a must-visit destination for curious travelers and adventure seekers like me.

The Beach welcomes you to Siquijor

How to Get to Siquijor

The nearest airport to Siquijor is Dumaguete Domestic Airport, which is approximately 1.5 hours away from Manila by plane.

From the airport:

1. Take a tricycle to Dumaguete Port.

2. Purchase a ferry ticket to Siquijor — the ride takes about 1 hour.

First Impressions

As soon as I stepped onto Siquijor Island, I was mesmerized by the white sand beach that greeted me at the port. The water was crystal clear, and the view was simply breathtaking.

🌊 "The beach welcomes you to Siquijor with open arms — soft white sands and turquoise waters right at the port."

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Things to Do in Siquijor (Day Trip Itinerary)

Although we only had a day to explore, my friends and I made the most of our time on the island. We hired a tricycle for 1,000 PHP, which included a day tour of up to five destinations. Due to time constraints, we were able to visit four — and each one was worth it.

1. The Century-Old Balete Tree

Old Balete Tree

Our first stop was the Century-Old Balete Tree in Lazi, one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island.

Beneath the giant tree is a fish spa pond where you can soak your feet. Tiny fish nibble at your skin — a ticklish, relaxing experience perfect after a long walk.

2. Lazi Church

An old church in Lazi.

Next, we visited the old church in Lazi, known officially as the San Isidro Labrador Parish Church.

This century-old church is a stunning piece of architecture and has withstood the test of time. It’s a peaceful spot that also reflects the island’s deep-rooted spirituality.

3. Cambugahay Falls

The highlight of the trip for me was Cambugahay Falls.

This stunning waterfall is known for its bright blue waters and multi-tiered pools. It truly felt like a hidden paradise. Swinging into the water from a rope was so much fun — and refreshing!

💦 "Cambugahay Falls looks straight out of a fantasy movie — it made me believe even more in the magic of Siquijor."

 

4. Coastal Views and Local Life

As we drove from one destination to another, we passed by coastal roads, local markets, and charming villages that made us fall more in love with the island. Siquijor may be small, but it’s packed with wonders at every turn.

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Final Thoughts: One Day Is Not Enough

A day in Siquijor simply isn’t enough for an explorer like me. There’s still so much I want to experience — from more waterfalls to hidden coves, local healers, and mystical stories.

I left the island with a full heart and a promise to return.

Pro Tip: Stay More Than a Day

If you plan to visit Siquijor, I highly recommend staying for at least 2–3 days to fully immerse yourself in its magic.

🛏️ Check out the best hotels and travel deals in Siquijor here:
👉 TravelBook.ph - Siquijor Hotels and Deals

Discovering Dumaguete: Why It's Called the Best Place to Retire in the Philippines

I’ve always been curious about why Dumaguete City is often hailed as the best place to retire in the Philippines. After my colorful adventure at MassKara Festival in Bacolod, I decided to make a detour to Dumaguete — and to my surprise, it was Buglasan Festival week!

City Capitol during Buglasan Festival

Buglasan Festival: Festival of Festivals

Buglasan Festival is known as the “Festival of Festivals” in Negros Oriental, and it's celebrated every October, this time from October 17–26, 2014. It showcases the best of each town and city in the province — a grand celebration of culture, dance, and community.

Dumaguete City Capitol During the Festival

Dumaguete's City pride

The city comes alive with a parade of colors, cultural displays, and street dancing competitions. Each municipality proudly presents its unique identity through costumes, music, and performances. Many of the dances have strong Spanish influences, with traditional Filipino attire like barong and baro't saya on full display.

Dance of the harvest

How to Get to Dumaguete

Dumaguete is accessible via multiple routes:

• By Air: Fly to Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport from Manila or Cebu via local airlines.

• By Land & Sea: From Cebu, it’s around 5 hours via bus and ferry. From Bacolod, it takes approximately 7 hours by land.

Buglasan Highlights

• 🎭 Street Dancing Parade: A major attraction that features the festivals of various towns across Negros Oriental.

• 🛍️ Capitol Grounds Bazaar: The Provincial Capitol transforms into a bustling bazaar filled with local food, crafts, souvenirs, and art.

• 🥘 Food Trip Heaven: Dumaguete is known for cheap, delicious food — and Buglasan Festival is the perfect time to indulge.

Must-Try Food: Silvanas and Sans Rival

Silvanas and Sans Rival

No trip to Dumaguete is complete without a stop at Sans Rival Bistro, located on the scenic Rizal Boulevard. They offer two irresistible delicacies:

• Silvanas – Buttery, sweet, frozen cookies at only ₱15/piece

• Sans Rival – Rich, creamy dessert cake for just ₱28/slice

Both are perfect for take-home treats — if you can resist eating them all first!

Take a Walk Along Rizal Boulevard

Talk a walk!

After a sweet treat, take a relaxing stroll along the Baywalk (Rizal Boulevard). The cool sea breeze, friendly locals, and ocean view make it one of Dumaguete’s most peaceful spots. It's also the ideal place to reflect on your travels — or plan your next meal.

Where to Stay: Budget-Friendly Accommodation

My room for the night!

Dumaguete offers a range of accommodations. I stayed at Gabby’s Bed and Breakfast in Claytown for only ₱600/night. It included:

• A single bed

• Air conditioning

• Cable TV

• Private bathroom with shower

• Complimentary breakfast

Affordable and comfortable — just what a traveler needs.

Why Dumaguete is Perfect for Retirees

Dumaguete is a laid-back university town known as the “City of Gentle People.” Its charm lies in its simplicity and accessibility:

• Everything is just minutes away — schools, shops, markets, hospitals, and the sea.

• The cost of living is low compared to major cities.

• The community is warm and safe — with many expats and retirees calling it home.

This town has a peaceful vibe, rich culture, delicious food, and natural beauty. After just a few days here, I completely understand why Dumaguete is considered one of the top retirement destinations in the Philippines.

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Final Thoughts

My visit to Dumaguete City was both spontaneous and rewarding. I came for curiosity, stayed for the festival, and left with a new perspective. Whether you're a tourist, a foodie, or a future retiree, Dumaguete has something for you.

A Million Smiles: Experiencing MassKara Festival 2014 in Bacolod

A million smiles, and one that lasts a lifetime.

MassKara Festival 2014 was an unforgettable experience — full of color, energy, and joy that only Bacolod City can offer.

Mascara

My First Time in Bacolod

I first visited Bacolod in January 2010, just for a day trip. My dad took me to meet relatives, and of course, we couldn’t leave without trying the famous Chicken Inasal. That short visit left a lasting impression and sparked my desire to return.

Fast forward to 2014 — I finally got the chance to fly back, this time to experience the vibrant MassKara Festival, a perfect opportunity to make new memories and rediscover the joy Bacolod brings.

How to Get to Bacolod

Bacolod City is accessible through several routes:

• By Air: The New Bacolod-Silay Airport is about 15 kilometers from the city center and offers direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and Davao.

• Via Iloilo: Another option is flying into Iloilo International Airport, traveling to the Port of Iloilo, and taking a ferry or fast craft to Bacolod. It’s a scenic route that adds a little adventure to your trip.

What is the MassKara Festival?

MassKara Street Dancing Participants

The term MassKara is a blend of the word mass (many people) and kara (face). It also closely resembles the Filipino word mascara, meaning “mask.” The festival is held annually on the weekend closest to October 19, which is Bacolod’s Charter Day.

MassKara is a Mardi Gras-style celebration, often called the Festival of Smiles — a nod to the warmth and cheer of the Negrenses despite past hardships.

Highlights of MassKara Festival 2014

Street Dancing Competition

The heart of MassKara is its street dancing competition, where schools and barangays compete in dazzling displays of colorful masks, costumes, and choreography. Streets are closed off to make way for performers who dance with electric energy to the beat of the city’s spirit.

Giant Puppet Parade

This year featured a giant puppet parade, with oversized versions of beloved characters like SpongeBob SquarePants, delighting both kids and the young at heart.

Look! It's SpongeBob!

Electric MassKara

The Electric MassKara parade lit up the night with vibrant neon lights, illuminated masks, and live performances. Held on the festival’s final night, it’s a must-see spectacle.

Nightlife During the Festival

Lacson Street Turns Into a Giant Street Party

Dance with them!

Every night, Lacson Street — the city’s main thoroughfare — becomes a pedestrian-only party strip. Food stalls, live bands, and local favorites like Chicken Inasal line the streets, serving thousands of locals and tourists.

Sweet Treats at Calea

A visit to Bacolod isn't complete without indulging in desserts from Calea, located along Lacson Street. Their cheesecakes and wide variety of cakes are the perfect treat after a day of festivities.

Calea Cakes

Rave Parties and Music Festivals

The MassKara Invasion by Spectrum and MassKara Love Dance turned Bacolod into a party capital. Held at Café Bobs Open Grounds and the Central District Football Field, these events drew massive crowds who danced and raved from noon until sunrise.

Why You Should Visit MassKara Festival

MassKara isn’t just a festival; it’s a feeling. It’s the energy, the music, the people — and the smiles. Bacolodnons have every reason to smile, and as a tourist, even without a mask, you’ll find yourself smiling too.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s your first time or a return trip, the MassKara Festival is a must-see event in the Philippines. Come for the fun, stay for the smiles — and leave with memories to last a lifetime.

First Time in Glan, Saranggani

Glan's beaches intrigued me. This secluded beach became a summer party hot spot in Mindanao. 

The beach of Glan

My friends always invite me to Sarangani BayFest every May. I ended up missing it.

Glan is a municipality in the province of Sarangani. To access this municipality, the nearest airport is General Santos International Airport. From General Santos City, you need to go KCC Mall. It is an hour van-ride going to Glan, Sarangani.   

[Travel] Kadayawan Festival 2014 - Davao City

I'm from Davao City and I've never posted something that introduces Davao as a tourist destination in this blog (only food reviews XD).

When I was in my teenage years, I always witness the highlights of Kadayawan Festival in televisions and read its updates on the internet and newspapers. I go out only at night to party, to grab some booze because of the big crowd that explodes. It was only last year that I've started to witness Kadayawan Festival on the streets because I need to cover it as a requirement of my TV class. This year I am witnessing it once again. It is truly an amazing experience that brings culture up to its finest!

Sangguniang Panglungsod in Davao City

Honestly, I've never been to any major festivities around the country. Festivals like Kadayawan makes me feel proud of the culture that we have as Filipinos.

Surf, Skim, and Fun in Dahican, Mati City

Waves, baby~! Waves, baby~! That’s the rhythm of Dahican Beach in Mati City, Davao Oriental. If you’re a lover of surfing, skimming, white sand, and pure beach vibes, then Dahican should definitely be on your bucket list.

The nearest airport is Davao International Airport. Right outside the terminal, you can hop on a bus bound for Mati — a 3-hour scenic ride from Davao City, plus an additional 20-minute tricycle ride from Mati city center to Dahican Beach. Easy and worth every second.

Once you arrive, inhale the salty sea breeze, listen to the crash of waves, and prepare yourself for two different Dahican experiences.

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The Developing Side of Dahican

If you want a more private and quiet stay, head about 2 kilometers away from the main beach strip to the developing area of Dahican.

Kubo sa Dahican Resort

This resort offers an infinity pool, affordable rooms, and a more relaxed atmosphere. While the beach here isn’t as pristine as Dahican’s main surfing strip — with some rocky patches and sea urchins — it's still a lovely spot for those who want a peaceful beach experience.

Infinity pool view at Kubo sa Dahican Resort

However, take note:

• The beach here is rockier compared to the main surfing area.

• There’s limited access to stores, so it’s a good idea to bring your essentials or take a quick ride back to the city center if needed.
  
  

Still, the calm and isolation offer a great break from the city buzz.

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The Pristine Surfing Side of Dahican

Now let’s talk about the main event — the Dahican Surf Resort side.

This stretch of beach is where all the action happens:

• Powdery white sand

• Clear, blue waters

• Strong, surfable waves

• A community of local surfers and skimmers

• A laid-back tent city vibe

See how blue the waters here?

Whether you’re a beginner surfer or a wave junkie, this side of Dahican is perfect for water adventures. The beachfront is wide and clean, with no rocks or sea urchins, making it ideal for long hours of play in the sea.

🏕️ Pro Tip: Bring your tent! Many locals and tourists camp by the beach, adding to the authentic surf-town atmosphere.

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Final Thoughts

Dahican is more than just a beach — it’s a lifestyle and a vibe. Whether you're chilling by the infinity pool at a quiet resort or catching big waves on the surf strip, this place has something for everyone.

I’ll definitely return to Dahican. I miss the waves, the community, and the unforgettable beach energy.

Until next time, Dahican 🌊
Surf. Skim. Fun. Repeat.

Bantayan Island Paradise: A Weekend Getaway from Cebu City

Island paradise!

That’s how I describe Bantayan Island, a stunning escape just off the coast of Cebu. This peaceful destination is perfect for a weekend getaway from the bustling streets of Cebu City. What makes it unforgettable? The fresh air, white sand beaches, delicious seafood, and the warm smiles of the locals.

Getting to Bantayan Island

The nearest airport is Mactan-Cebu International Airport. From Cebu City, you’ll need around 4 hours of travel time:

• Take a 3-hour bus ride from Cebu North Bus Terminal to Hagnaya Port in San Remigio.

• From there, it’s about an hour by ferry to Santa Fe Port, the main gateway to Bantayan Island.

Once you arrive, you're immediately greeted by the island’s pristine white sand beaches and calm turquoise waters — a welcome escape from city life.

Where to Stay and Swim in Bantayan

Alice Beach – Tranquil & Classy

Alice Beach, located on the eastern side of Santa Fe, offers clean, wide white sand shores. It’s home to some of the island’s mid-range to upscale resorts, such as:

• Anika Island Resort

• Santa Fe Beach Club

This is a great place to unwind in comfort, swim in calm waters, and catch the sunrise.

Sugar Beach – Romantic & Affordable

Facing south, Sugar Beach is known for its picturesque views and a natural sandbar that curves along the shoreline. It's especially famous for its sunrise and sunset scenes — truly Instagram-worthy and romantic!

Recommended stays include:

• Kota Beach Resort (famous for its appearance in the movie Camp Sawi)

• Mayet’s Resort (affordable and homey)

Getting Around Bantayan Island

Local transport is simple and charming:

• Pedicabs are readily available.

• Bike and motorbike rentals are common and cost-effective (ideal for exploring at your own pace).

It’s safe, scenic, and fun to travel like a local — even on foot or by bicycle.

More Than Beaches: Culture and History

Visit Saints Peter and Paul Church

Located in the town proper of Bantayan, just a short ride from Santa Fe, is the Saints Peter and Paul Parish, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, dating back to the 1500s. It stands next to an equally historic town plaza, considered among the oldest in the country.

Food Finds: Cheap and Fresh Seafood

One of my favorite parts of the trip? The food!

Fresh seafood is abundant and very affordable. You can feast on grilled scallops, crabs, and shellfish at incredibly low prices. It’s a seafood lover’s dream — and it tastes even better by the beach.

Tip: Try the local barbecue stalls and seafood grills around Santa Fe for authentic island flavors.

Nightlife & Local Vibe

Santa Fe also has a lively yet laid-back nightlife scene. There are:

• Live music bars

• Beachfront restaurants

• Shops and small grocery stores

Despite being a small island, it has everything you need while keeping its cozy, small-town charm.

Final Thoughts: I’ll Be Back!

A weekend is definitely not enough to see all of Bantayan. I still have more to explore: island hopping, scuba diving, and nearby town adventures.

Whether you're looking to relax, reconnect with nature, or just eat amazing seafood, Bantayan Island should be on your Philippines travel bucket list. I’m already planning my return!

[Travel] Bongao, Tawi-Tawi

Note: I went to Tawi-Tawi last April 2014. I wasn't able to publish this article right away.

Seeking for great adventure? Want to see clear water beaches? Or you want to eat seafood fresh from its environment?

It might be the time for you to explore the wonders of the Province of Tawi-Tawi. Found in the farthest south west of the Philippines, Tawi-Tawi is a gateway to a neighbouring country, Malaysia.

I had a chance to go to Tawi-Tawi last April. Tawi-Tawi can be access through airplane. Cebu Pacific offers airline seat to Sanga-Sanga Airport in the Municipality of Bongao, Tawi-Tawi from Zamboanga Airport.

At first, there is a great doubt in going there because of the news stories of kidnapping and war in this side of the country.

Tawi-Tawi, as part of Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao is not a warzone. The province maintains it peace and order situation.

Bongao's Sunset


Crabs Served for Breakfast

As we arrived in Sanga-Sanga Airport, we took a tricycle ride to Sandbar Lepa Beach Resort. The transportation cost from the airport to Sandbar Lepa Beach Resort is 150php. Considering the distance is quite near, locals consider that as cheap because the price of diesel fuel in the province cost around 70php per liter.


Sandbar Lepa Restauant


Tawi-Tawi Beach

The Sandbar Lepa Beach Resort has nice, quiet ambiance. The resort features their amazing landscape. They’ve a restaurant building situated on the beach waters. They got an events hall and cottages that are architect to its Muslim culture. Accommodation here costs 1,500 per night that includes air-conditioned rooms, a double bed, cable TV, mini refrigerator, water and water dispenser. A local also said that the cast of Thy Womb, a Filipino indie film which includes Nora Aunor, Lovi Poe and etc., stayed here during their shoot.

We were lucky to approach someone from the tourism office of Tawi-Tawi. I’ve asked Ms. Evelyn for some tourist spots in Tawi-Tawi. She suggested that to treck Bud Bungao, the highest peak of the island where you can find the oldest mosque.


Bud Bungao's View from the Resort

Bud Bungao is a two-hour slow trek from its foot to peak. Along the way, you can encounter monkeys. It’s better bring bananas to feed these monkeys and to avoid these monkeys from stealing your things. It is also convenient to water to avoid dehydration. At the peak you’ll witness the beautiful view overlooking the island of Tawi-Tawi.

The greatest experience you will encounter is the uniquely Tawi-Tawi’s hospitable approach to tourist.

[Travel] Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

Lake Sebu, a municipality found in South Cotabato, offers you the rustic scenery of nature. It’s finest landscapes vows breathing-taking appeal to travellers. The municipality is occupied by T’boli people. They welcome you with their warm smiles and hospitality.

The five-hour ride from Davao City to Lake Sebu is way too long for the impatient ones. If you are a non-drowsy traveller, you’ll enjoy the sights and scenery along the way. You’ll pass by three cities that you would truly appreciate. These cities preserve their modern urban living with nature. The one thing that is dominant in these cities is their turn around monuments in their cities. It shows the culture and heritage in the city.

But when you arrived in Lake Sebu, you will experience nature at its finest. The green trees welcome you with fresh air. The first stop you should visit is their tourism office. You will be introduced to what in stores for you in Region 12 – Culture and Tradition, Nature and Adventure.



Lake Sebu is home of the T’boli tribe. Their rich culture showcases in the municipality. Their culture like in the way they dress to their accessories can be found in the area. One of the highlight in their culture is the T’boli Museum.  The artifacts are well-preserved and you can appreciate that even with our modern time the T’boli knows how to preserve their ancestry.



Indulge with the food in Lake Sebu, Tilapia is famous here. Tilapia is well cultivated here. There are a lot of fish pens of Tiplapia here. They serve the best tasting Tilapia delicacies in Lake Sebu. Restaurants sprouting in Lake Sebu offer Tilapia dishes like Grilled, Chicharon and Fried Tilapia.



But the most sought after in Lake Sebu is the Nature Adventure. You can found seven falls in Lake Sebu. The best way to see these falls is taking the zip line. You can see the falls about 700 feet above the air. It feels like you are like Superman!

The Lake Sebu experience definitely one of the best  natureadventure you can get in the Philippines.

 

 

 

[Travel] Baguio City, Benguet

It's a summer destination for all Filipinos. There's a lot what's in store for you in Baguio City.

From Manila, it will take you 6-hours drive to reach Baguio City. Once you get out from your vehicle, you will grab your jackets. If you're a first timer in here, you can tell that the whole city is in air conditioned.

My first stop is breakfast. Leaving Manila at 1am and a 6 hours long travel time, who doesn't want breakfast?  Me and my friends went to Pizza Volante at Session Road, Baguio City.

We sip with some hot coffee and hot baterol (hot cocoa). People here know this restaurant for they serve great tasting pizzas and pasta. Their specialty is Corsican rice is absolutely a must-try!

What I have ordered is Vegetable Omelette with Corsican rice. I admit that I like what they have served me. It satisfies my hunger for a day start.

Having our breakfast done. We went to check-in at Pine Breeze. They have plenty of room accommodation. We rented an efficiency room, the one with a kitchenette. To be honest, their facilities are kinda bit old like the faucet and hot and cold shower is kinda old. Probably it's because of the weather that why it looks like it's been used for a long time. A room good for 8 people at 1750 per night, it's fair enough.

 

After we checked-in we began our Day Tour. A lot of inviting attractions you can explore in Baguio. First stop, Shopping! You can go to SM City Baguio at Luneta Hill Dr., Baguio City. This is the only SM Mall in the Philippines that doesn't have air-conditioner in the vicinity. There are some locale native shop can be found here. I bought a beanie here. You can grab some coffee at Starbucks here. In my case, I grab Hot White Chocolate Mocha.

If you love to see the beauty of nature, you can go to Botanical Garden at Leonard Wood Dr., for nature tripping, Burnham Park at Chuntug Rd., for lake boat riding and Mines View Park at Outlook Dr. for  breath taking scenery. For late night out, you can go to Nevada Square at Loakan Rd., to grab some beer.

Travelling to Baguio City is one experience that I couldn't forget. The city is commercialize. BPO hubs are sprouting in the city. You can still experience city and nature merge in a cool climate. I can tolerate this kind of weather that Baguio offers. A very nice place to live.