By Jo Erlinda G. Nebres
Printed in Philippines Today, April 01, 2009
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Many think skydiving is a crazy thing to do especially for those who haven’t tried this kind of sport. It is the natural human reaction in inclination to take high risks. Every skydiver came to that process.
Skydiving isn’t about paying money for aircraft to fly way up in the sky and then jump out of an airplane or helicopter or balloon from about 14,000 feet. It is not even difficult to jump out of the aircraft to soar in the air. It’s not even a difficult extreme sport to experience. You just need commitment and a touch of insanity to accept the challenge, to face your fear and doubts.
The only difficult part is to make a decision whether to skydive or not. But when it’s over, you have something too great to brag about what you just did.
At first, you can’t describe the sensation of flying and floating in the air and what you just saw, only to elicit a wide-eyed grin like “I can’t believe I just did that!”
Embracing that thrilling experienced won’t die there. Recalling what you just saw and reminiscing the feeling makes you want to do it over and over again. A feeling of flying! The astonishing sense of freedom!
Skydiving or parachuting is all about the sensation of flying and freedom. That’s the very reason why skydiving became a sport when before skydiving is part of a job for rescuing or mission for paratroopers during war.
Do you watch a bird fly high? Are you curious what are up there? You can learn how or experience it once but there are health requirement to do this. After all, this is a sport. Every sport requires a reasonably good physical shape. In this kind of sport, you are required to wear about 35 lbs of equipment, endure opening shock, and maneuver the canopy, land, and possibly trudge great distances on foot. There is a weight limit. You will experience 30 degree swings in temperature, atmospheric pressure changes, 4-6 hours of lecture, and lots of beer!
Skydiving might be a grueling sport it seems but it is worth doing! There is not a plane that can give you an awesome sight to view 360 degrees around you, to see a great distance, horizon and its beauty with no obstructions. To feel you are a part of that sky, where you can freely move your body. Whether you want to fly forward, backing up, to move sideways, and how you’d like speed up your fall or to slow it down. Yes, you are definitely flying! You can maneuver your body to the limit that you cannot do on land like doing the flip and twist or standing on your head. No limit on how you want your body to move. Truly, the sky will be your playground!
To know why many are getting whacko over skydiving in the Philippines , email gagabytes@gmail.com.
Take off your fear and remember the first rule, “Enjoy the view!”
Happy flying!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
The Subic beach fun must go on
By Jo ERLINDA G. NEBRES
April 29, 2009
Recently, we went to Subic and stayed at Forest Hills. We had fun with the kids as my sisters from Doha, Qatar and Dubai, United Arab Emirates joined us on their annual vacation in the country together with some friends.
Everytime we go to Subic during the long Holy Week break, we enjoyed swimming and picnic at the beach. And this recent visit was a surprise because of the all-new Camayan Beach Resort, formerly the Miracle Beach. And there are other beautiful beaches developed in and around Subic. .
Year after year since 1993, our family makes a special visit to any of the Subic beach resorts. Unfortunately, this year, it was raining hard when we went to the beach, but to us the beach fun must go on…
As we settled down in our cottage, I noticed the crews and staff of Camayan Beach Resort busily trying to remove all the debris of the shore every now and then. There were many beachgoers already there amidst the weather condition that day. Children were on their position at the shoreline, some making sand castles and others playing with the waves.
The hardest part of enjoying the beach during a rainy day is to beat the cold wind. So, I started sitting down on the shoreline where waves meet their ends to wet my feet and legs to feel the temperature of the sea water to condition myself. Later, my youngest-four-year-old daughter dragged me to a deeper part of the sea where a long bench was planted by the management. She (wearing life vest) went up there all the time to dive. Minutes later, all her cousins were already there. Some wrestling on the bench and others snorkeling and skin diving.
Afterwards, in spite of the rain pouring hard, everybody wants to go further down to the deep to look for fishes and to any luck, corals. So they all went to a stage-board almost at the edge of the beach implanted by the establishment. The borders are surrounded by styroballs which were floating in line to indicate the secure area to swim.
I’ve been to a lot of beaches and this Camayan Beach Resort is a safe beach resort to see during this time of weather. I felt secure and so are my children and family. In spite of the rains, we enjoyed our beach activities there. Actually, we all enjoyed very much our snorkeling experience despite the fact that water is hazy during rain. The water is indeed clear even though there was no sun to give light under the sea and we were able to see different school of fishes. Batfishes, lovable clown fishes at large, blue tang, parrot fish, yellow tail damsels, angel fish, and other kinds of fish -- I saw many of them but I couldn’t name them all. My nephew had collected small crustacean crabs found with the styroballs.
At times, I had become so involved and was mesmerized seeing huge gatherings of color fishes and their beauty and started chasing a particular fish forgetting where I was when I know that some possible predators may be at large but thanks to the Camayan Beach Resort management and to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority or SBMA my under-the-sea adventure was not spoiled that day!
Afterward, when it was raining so hard again, many rented kayaks and began paddling and playing the small waves.
Later in the afternoon, the resort was alive with music coming from the restaurant. The sound of live beach music coming from Reef Restaurant and Bar lured people to stay longer to a more promising beach party at night.
Enjoying the night fun is hassle free at Camayan Beach Resort. They offer great accommodations with picturesque view of Subic Bay, wake up in the great catch of ocean breeze!
Thinking of other things to do? Camayan Beach Resort owns the Ocean Adventure which is situated next to it. Another sea adventure awaits you there!
For comments and more information, email gagabytes@gmail.com.
April 29, 2009
Recently, we went to Subic and stayed at Forest Hills. We had fun with the kids as my sisters from Doha, Qatar and Dubai, United Arab Emirates joined us on their annual vacation in the country together with some friends.
Everytime we go to Subic during the long Holy Week break, we enjoyed swimming and picnic at the beach. And this recent visit was a surprise because of the all-new Camayan Beach Resort, formerly the Miracle Beach. And there are other beautiful beaches developed in and around Subic. .
Year after year since 1993, our family makes a special visit to any of the Subic beach resorts. Unfortunately, this year, it was raining hard when we went to the beach, but to us the beach fun must go on…
As we settled down in our cottage, I noticed the crews and staff of Camayan Beach Resort busily trying to remove all the debris of the shore every now and then. There were many beachgoers already there amidst the weather condition that day. Children were on their position at the shoreline, some making sand castles and others playing with the waves.
The hardest part of enjoying the beach during a rainy day is to beat the cold wind. So, I started sitting down on the shoreline where waves meet their ends to wet my feet and legs to feel the temperature of the sea water to condition myself. Later, my youngest-four-year-old daughter dragged me to a deeper part of the sea where a long bench was planted by the management. She (wearing life vest) went up there all the time to dive. Minutes later, all her cousins were already there. Some wrestling on the bench and others snorkeling and skin diving.
Afterwards, in spite of the rain pouring hard, everybody wants to go further down to the deep to look for fishes and to any luck, corals. So they all went to a stage-board almost at the edge of the beach implanted by the establishment. The borders are surrounded by styroballs which were floating in line to indicate the secure area to swim.
I’ve been to a lot of beaches and this Camayan Beach Resort is a safe beach resort to see during this time of weather. I felt secure and so are my children and family. In spite of the rains, we enjoyed our beach activities there. Actually, we all enjoyed very much our snorkeling experience despite the fact that water is hazy during rain. The water is indeed clear even though there was no sun to give light under the sea and we were able to see different school of fishes. Batfishes, lovable clown fishes at large, blue tang, parrot fish, yellow tail damsels, angel fish, and other kinds of fish -- I saw many of them but I couldn’t name them all. My nephew had collected small crustacean crabs found with the styroballs.
At times, I had become so involved and was mesmerized seeing huge gatherings of color fishes and their beauty and started chasing a particular fish forgetting where I was when I know that some possible predators may be at large but thanks to the Camayan Beach Resort management and to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority or SBMA my under-the-sea adventure was not spoiled that day!
Afterward, when it was raining so hard again, many rented kayaks and began paddling and playing the small waves.
Later in the afternoon, the resort was alive with music coming from the restaurant. The sound of live beach music coming from Reef Restaurant and Bar lured people to stay longer to a more promising beach party at night.
Enjoying the night fun is hassle free at Camayan Beach Resort. They offer great accommodations with picturesque view of Subic Bay, wake up in the great catch of ocean breeze!
Thinking of other things to do? Camayan Beach Resort owns the Ocean Adventure which is situated next to it. Another sea adventure awaits you there!
For comments and more information, email gagabytes@gmail.com.
Tour of paradise on board the 7107 Island cruise ship
By Jojie G. Nebres
Published in Philippines Today Us April 22, 2009
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Ever dream of cruising around the islands of the Philippines? Now this is your chance!
The 7107 Island Cruise Ship opened late last year as the first luxury ship that can accommodate 400 guests in great cruising experience around the country.
Through 7107 Island Cruise we will finally have a chance to tour around the greatest beach and island destinations, journey to these beautiful places like Boracay, Coron, Ditaytayan, Panlaitan, Calauit, Apo Reef, Subic and access to other private islands.
The ship provides a five-star luxury accommodation for every island hoppers and travelers on their journey to these beautiful places in the country.
No other travel package can beat this summer cruise expedition the 7107 Island Cruise is offering. A visit to these beautiful places on a journey while in the comfort of a five star cabin hotel!
Cruising in 7107 Island Cruise Ship could mean this itinerary.
On the first day, embark 7107 Island Cruise Ship at Batangas pier around 10 o’clock in the evening sailing towards Boracay. For first time sailors who can’t sleep at night, there are lots of activities onboard to tire you to sleep like live bands, bar, spa or have a quiet time sightseeing or stargazing at the deck.
The morning comes and long anticipated Boracay oh Boracay! known as the Party Island Escapade! Arriving around noon time the following day will give us a half day lazing around the immaculate white sand beach and a whole night of partying! Make sure you have enough energy to wake up early to enjoy a whole day of fun for water sports activities the following morning.
Following night, the ship will glide again heading to Coron. Let us relax for awhile in Sauna room and have a beauty sleep. We have a whole day unraveling the Coron Island of Calamianes, Palawan!
The Calamianes is rich with coral reefs, mangrove forests reserve, sandy beaches, protected bays and inlets, and majestic karsts and cliff formations which provide diverse array of marine and coastal habitats, making it one of the most bio diverse groups of islands in the Philippines. Coral reefs, sea grass and mangroves border every island that is why some of them are nesting grounds for sea turtles, inhabited by dugongs as well as two species of endangered marine crocodiles, making it a high potential area for marine tourism.
From Coron Island, the ship will transfer in a short distance island also located in Calamianes, to the Ditaytayan Island and Malcapuya Island. These are privately owned by 7107 Islands Cruise’s sister company. It is a special treat to 7107 Island Cruise ship guests. This is where powdery white sand beaches and flourishing coral gardens meet!
Guests can enjoy a picnic lunch in Malcapuya’s Cabanas and then island hop to neighboring islands of Cheron Island and Banana Island and have dinner on the sandbar of Ditaytayan Island which swirls towards the azure sea. Don’t forget to look for Dugong or Sea Cow, Monkey, Wild Ducks and Giant Clams while you are there.
You must be exhausted from Palawan’s island escapade, to bother you an early dawn sailing to Panlaitan. Sureness, you’ll be rushing your breakfast to go out and play volleyball on the beautiful long white stretch beach or start snorkeling to watch the coral gardens bloom beneath these clear waters.
As we sleep at night, we’ll be awake by the time the ship reached Calauit Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary and later a stop at the Apo Reef where the second largest contiguous coral reef in the world can be found!
Spend the rest of the day explore the world of Apo Reef and discover exotic marine life and fabulous coral walls and lagoons!
During dinner time, the 7107 Island Cruise ship will be leaving for the final travel destination – Subic!
Arrive at Subic the following day before noon time where you may await for another travel adventure! From aqua sports to paragliding, hiking and trekking and many more!
So what are you waiting for? Let’s cruise and have fun aboard the 7107 Island Cruise ship this summer! Email me at gagabytes@gmail.com.
Published in Philippines Today Us April 22, 2009
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Ever dream of cruising around the islands of the Philippines? Now this is your chance!
The 7107 Island Cruise Ship opened late last year as the first luxury ship that can accommodate 400 guests in great cruising experience around the country.
Through 7107 Island Cruise we will finally have a chance to tour around the greatest beach and island destinations, journey to these beautiful places like Boracay, Coron, Ditaytayan, Panlaitan, Calauit, Apo Reef, Subic and access to other private islands.
The ship provides a five-star luxury accommodation for every island hoppers and travelers on their journey to these beautiful places in the country.
No other travel package can beat this summer cruise expedition the 7107 Island Cruise is offering. A visit to these beautiful places on a journey while in the comfort of a five star cabin hotel!
Cruising in 7107 Island Cruise Ship could mean this itinerary.
On the first day, embark 7107 Island Cruise Ship at Batangas pier around 10 o’clock in the evening sailing towards Boracay. For first time sailors who can’t sleep at night, there are lots of activities onboard to tire you to sleep like live bands, bar, spa or have a quiet time sightseeing or stargazing at the deck.
The morning comes and long anticipated Boracay oh Boracay! known as the Party Island Escapade! Arriving around noon time the following day will give us a half day lazing around the immaculate white sand beach and a whole night of partying! Make sure you have enough energy to wake up early to enjoy a whole day of fun for water sports activities the following morning.
Following night, the ship will glide again heading to Coron. Let us relax for awhile in Sauna room and have a beauty sleep. We have a whole day unraveling the Coron Island of Calamianes, Palawan!
The Calamianes is rich with coral reefs, mangrove forests reserve, sandy beaches, protected bays and inlets, and majestic karsts and cliff formations which provide diverse array of marine and coastal habitats, making it one of the most bio diverse groups of islands in the Philippines. Coral reefs, sea grass and mangroves border every island that is why some of them are nesting grounds for sea turtles, inhabited by dugongs as well as two species of endangered marine crocodiles, making it a high potential area for marine tourism.
From Coron Island, the ship will transfer in a short distance island also located in Calamianes, to the Ditaytayan Island and Malcapuya Island. These are privately owned by 7107 Islands Cruise’s sister company. It is a special treat to 7107 Island Cruise ship guests. This is where powdery white sand beaches and flourishing coral gardens meet!
Guests can enjoy a picnic lunch in Malcapuya’s Cabanas and then island hop to neighboring islands of Cheron Island and Banana Island and have dinner on the sandbar of Ditaytayan Island which swirls towards the azure sea. Don’t forget to look for Dugong or Sea Cow, Monkey, Wild Ducks and Giant Clams while you are there.
You must be exhausted from Palawan’s island escapade, to bother you an early dawn sailing to Panlaitan. Sureness, you’ll be rushing your breakfast to go out and play volleyball on the beautiful long white stretch beach or start snorkeling to watch the coral gardens bloom beneath these clear waters.
As we sleep at night, we’ll be awake by the time the ship reached Calauit Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary and later a stop at the Apo Reef where the second largest contiguous coral reef in the world can be found!
Spend the rest of the day explore the world of Apo Reef and discover exotic marine life and fabulous coral walls and lagoons!
During dinner time, the 7107 Island Cruise ship will be leaving for the final travel destination – Subic!
Arrive at Subic the following day before noon time where you may await for another travel adventure! From aqua sports to paragliding, hiking and trekking and many more!
So what are you waiting for? Let’s cruise and have fun aboard the 7107 Island Cruise ship this summer! Email me at gagabytes@gmail.com.
Chilling your way out of the summer heat in Tagaytay City
By JO ERLINDA G. NEBRES
Published in Philippines Today April 14, 2009
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Summer is here. Everyone is looking for a place to quench the uncomfortably shift of the weather. Whether to plunge in a pool, looking for the best halo-halo nearby, or enjoying the stillness of the hot summer and having fun in the beaches not far from our places or doing anything to feel comfortable, you can chill your way out in Tagaytay City which is less than an hour drive away from Manila.
The cool climate and pristine air of Tagaytay City offer variety of activities for the whole family or barkada to enjoy. Kids would love to fly a kite, while everybody else enjoys cooking out or horseback riding at the Picnic Grove or simply enjoy the view of the famous Taal volcano and the lake.
Visiting Tagaytay City with no apparent aim of destination is no problem. Just stroll around and every leisure and activities will be available. Even a low budget visit will make your tour a sure-fire stay.
The lush, calming air cooling the city will easily chill down the temper while leisurely walking or little trekking in the park.
Little trekking your way up to People’s Park in the Sky or Imelda Marcos’ Palace in the Sky will give you a spectacular view of Manila Bay, Laguna Bay, Taal Lake and the Balayan Bay. The controversial Palace in the Sky, once owned by former President Ferdinand Marcos, is nestled at the highest point of Tagaytay.
Animal lovers can visit the Halfway Zoo which houses some wild animals. The zoo also has unique flora and fauna to enjoy and so with the rest of the city. Tagaytay is, indeed, a garden city by itself.
Tagaytay City is popular for couples who want a quick romance getaway or adventure. The cold environment of Tagaytay and the phenomenal views makes every point of Tagaytay a soulful and amorous place to enjoy. The weather provides you a natural expressive love or romance. The city is famous for wedding venues and these rites often are dubbed the “Wedding in the Sky” or “Wedding made in Heaven.”
Tagaytay is not only famous destination for families, lovers or couples, but to any barkadas too! The cool city has many bars, and restaurants and a casino too! Some bars and restaurants are owned by popular showbiz personalities like Richard Merk and Freddie Aguillar.
Golf wannabes loved to play here. Everyone who are going some place else like Batangas, will make sure they will pause a moment to experience bulalo and tawilis in the city. Tagaytay market sells cheap fresh beef and other vegetables. Barako coffee beans, buko tart and flowering plants is a must buy!
For comments, gagabytes@gmail.com.
Published in Philippines Today April 14, 2009
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Summer is here. Everyone is looking for a place to quench the uncomfortably shift of the weather. Whether to plunge in a pool, looking for the best halo-halo nearby, or enjoying the stillness of the hot summer and having fun in the beaches not far from our places or doing anything to feel comfortable, you can chill your way out in Tagaytay City which is less than an hour drive away from Manila.
The cool climate and pristine air of Tagaytay City offer variety of activities for the whole family or barkada to enjoy. Kids would love to fly a kite, while everybody else enjoys cooking out or horseback riding at the Picnic Grove or simply enjoy the view of the famous Taal volcano and the lake.
Visiting Tagaytay City with no apparent aim of destination is no problem. Just stroll around and every leisure and activities will be available. Even a low budget visit will make your tour a sure-fire stay.
The lush, calming air cooling the city will easily chill down the temper while leisurely walking or little trekking in the park.
Little trekking your way up to People’s Park in the Sky or Imelda Marcos’ Palace in the Sky will give you a spectacular view of Manila Bay, Laguna Bay, Taal Lake and the Balayan Bay. The controversial Palace in the Sky, once owned by former President Ferdinand Marcos, is nestled at the highest point of Tagaytay.
Animal lovers can visit the Halfway Zoo which houses some wild animals. The zoo also has unique flora and fauna to enjoy and so with the rest of the city. Tagaytay is, indeed, a garden city by itself.
Tagaytay City is popular for couples who want a quick romance getaway or adventure. The cold environment of Tagaytay and the phenomenal views makes every point of Tagaytay a soulful and amorous place to enjoy. The weather provides you a natural expressive love or romance. The city is famous for wedding venues and these rites often are dubbed the “Wedding in the Sky” or “Wedding made in Heaven.”
Tagaytay is not only famous destination for families, lovers or couples, but to any barkadas too! The cool city has many bars, and restaurants and a casino too! Some bars and restaurants are owned by popular showbiz personalities like Richard Merk and Freddie Aguillar.
Golf wannabes loved to play here. Everyone who are going some place else like Batangas, will make sure they will pause a moment to experience bulalo and tawilis in the city. Tagaytay market sells cheap fresh beef and other vegetables. Barako coffee beans, buko tart and flowering plants is a must buy!
For comments, gagabytes@gmail.com.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Luvverly Jubberly Week at Subic Bay
By Jo Erlinda Gabot- Nebres
Printed in Philippines Today, April 08, 2009
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Since I started college in 1993, myself and our big family spent Holy Week every y ear at Subic Bay. Year after year, I saw the growth of tourists visiting the former American Naval Base.
Now that it is Holy Week again, my older sister and her family who are based in Qatar will join our vacation this summer in Subic. And so, too, my other sister who is based in Dubai.
Why do we always Holy Week in Subic Bay?
We are four sisters and one brother. Each of us has our own family. We have different habits and likes. We have our own and wonderful children. We’ve grown into different sport activities and kids our kids also love to play, that’s why we love Subic. It’s one big playground for our big family!
Reminiscing all the years in Subic, they all went well. Always a luvverly jubberly’ week and each year is something new to look forward to. Always a great time lies ahead. A retreat, a home away from home. It’s pleasure traveling to Subic and resting in the pristine environment.
One early morning, during our first visit to the former Subic Naval Base Complex, we were introduced to the amenities of American soldiers in the virgin forest such as their bunkers and the hidden places where they stored their ammunitions.
As we drove to the area, we couldn’t help but say ‘oooh’, ‘ahh’ and ‘wow’ with the magnificence of nature that is our midst. Suddenly, in the roadside monkeys surface and watch us pass by. When there are plenty of monkeys around, we could not help but stop the car to look and see any possible moment to have our own picture with them.
I first noticed the virgin forest around us and wondered how the tall trees grew in the area seemingly undisturbed. I never thought after most of my mountainside travels, there is this untouched side of the mountain in front of me in spite of the fact that Subic Bay was formerly inhabited by foreign soldiers. The forest seemed to have been untouched for years what with its green foliage, wild flowers and ferns and what have you. It’s a spectacular sight.
Despite of the many people here for years, Subic is so clean! With the strict enforcement of the law here, you will be afraid to throw your cigarette butts or a small candy wrapper anywhere. Even driving around, you’ll have to be cautious and observe the traffic rules. Everywhere are the traffic men are there to capture you for a wrong turn.
We always had lunch in the Jungle Environmental and Survival Training or JEST Camp with the local delicacies offered by the native Aetas manning the camp. Here, we could see with different colors, sizes and kinds of birds. The camp also has a butterfly garden where you can frolic with the rainbow-colored butterflies. The spiders gallery in the camp has its own surprises - native and big spiders, many of them imported from the Amazon jungles of South America. It is so nice to capture a moment with a butterfly is on your hand or shoulder!
Don’t miss the life surviving demonstration at Jest Camp. You’ll be amazed how a person can survive with mere bamboo in the forest! I thought then that in order to endure the forest when you are thirsty, you will have to climb a coconut tree and drink coconut juice. But to the native Aetas, it is easier to drink with a young bamboo shoot. You can even start a fire and cook with bamboo. You’ll discover the essentials of bamboo in order to survive in a forest!
Hiking in the heart of the rainforest is a unique experience at the Jest Camp and the surroundings. An overnight stay in the jungle could also be arranged but you should bring your own tent, flash lights and other scouting gadgets.
Some 150 families of the natives called Aetas live inside the Subic Forest. The Pamulaklakin Forest Trails is a starting point of the Eco-life and cultural show from the Aeta community. Pamulaklakin, with its river and big stones, and the big trees surrounding, is a great picnic area!
If there’s an eco tour in Subic, there is a Zoobic Safari, the newest and most popular attraction to give us a chance to see various animals up close or pet them. A chance to hold a tiger cub or a huge python! Most of the animals found there are native of Philippines; others were imported from overseas such as the tigers, ostriches, sheeps, a moon bear and cassowary.
To complete your Zoobic visit, everybody should take the safari ride! You will ride on a jeepney to see the tigers lolling in pools and lazing under the sun.
The thrill of Zoobic Safari ride won’t be complete without tigers chasing your jeep! What a thrilling moment and thanks to the iron mesh of the jeep! Especially when the tour guide swayed live chicken through the jeepney’s window!
Then there are big ostriches also around!
Subic, with its perfect environment, has different recreational facilities, luxurious hotels, marina, beaches, golf greens, eco-tourism, watersports, car and go-kart racing, skating, bowling, cycling, motocross, duty-free shopping, casinos, restaurants, videoke bars and other amusement facilities.
If there’s Zoobic Safari for land animal lesson tour, there’s another attraction in Subic to introduce you to the water habitats, the Ocean Adventure.
Subic Bay offers different kinds of nightlife from floating bar to beach shore restaurants. Different recreation sports also available. Go karting, golf, horse riding at El Kabayo, tennis, basketball, swimming pools available everywhere!
I like the Tree Top Adventure where I can soar from tree to tree while securely suspended face down and feet up, or I may able to quench my adrenaline in this thrilling trail while rappelling down the side of a 60-foot tree or to ride in a motorized cable 100 feet above the ground or even trek in the jungle!
Small beaches can be found inside Subic Bay. Many water sports and adventures are available. Jet Ski, kayaking, aqua cycles, platoon ride are available for those who want to tour and discover Subic.
For scuba divers, Subic oceans will give you an ultimate experience of discovering wrecks. Subic’s World War II (WWII) wrecks covered almost the entire war period. No less than 25 Japanese ships were reported sunk during the war years. Some of these may have been removed in the late fifties as salvage operations were done to open up the bay for shipping. Nineteen of these fabulous war wrecks have been discovered. Additional ships were sunk after the war either as targets or victims of mother nature. The area is not limited to WWII wrecks, at the entrance to the bay alongside Grande Island, is the Spanish American war wreck San Quintin. Outside the bay in deep water lies what remains of a Spanish Galleon as well as a 16th century Chinese Junk and they are beyond diving range.
There are lots of activities available for the entire family at Subic Bay. Things to do there won’t pose a problem to any individual. So see you this Holy Week at Subic!
For comments, email gagabytes@gmail.com
Printed in Philippines Today, April 08, 2009
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Since I started college in 1993, myself and our big family spent Holy Week every y ear at Subic Bay. Year after year, I saw the growth of tourists visiting the former American Naval Base.
Now that it is Holy Week again, my older sister and her family who are based in Qatar will join our vacation this summer in Subic. And so, too, my other sister who is based in Dubai.
Why do we always Holy Week in Subic Bay?
We are four sisters and one brother. Each of us has our own family. We have different habits and likes. We have our own and wonderful children. We’ve grown into different sport activities and kids our kids also love to play, that’s why we love Subic. It’s one big playground for our big family!
Reminiscing all the years in Subic, they all went well. Always a luvverly jubberly’ week and each year is something new to look forward to. Always a great time lies ahead. A retreat, a home away from home. It’s pleasure traveling to Subic and resting in the pristine environment.
One early morning, during our first visit to the former Subic Naval Base Complex, we were introduced to the amenities of American soldiers in the virgin forest such as their bunkers and the hidden places where they stored their ammunitions.
As we drove to the area, we couldn’t help but say ‘oooh’, ‘ahh’ and ‘wow’ with the magnificence of nature that is our midst. Suddenly, in the roadside monkeys surface and watch us pass by. When there are plenty of monkeys around, we could not help but stop the car to look and see any possible moment to have our own picture with them.
I first noticed the virgin forest around us and wondered how the tall trees grew in the area seemingly undisturbed. I never thought after most of my mountainside travels, there is this untouched side of the mountain in front of me in spite of the fact that Subic Bay was formerly inhabited by foreign soldiers. The forest seemed to have been untouched for years what with its green foliage, wild flowers and ferns and what have you. It’s a spectacular sight.
Despite of the many people here for years, Subic is so clean! With the strict enforcement of the law here, you will be afraid to throw your cigarette butts or a small candy wrapper anywhere. Even driving around, you’ll have to be cautious and observe the traffic rules. Everywhere are the traffic men are there to capture you for a wrong turn.
We always had lunch in the Jungle Environmental and Survival Training or JEST Camp with the local delicacies offered by the native Aetas manning the camp. Here, we could see with different colors, sizes and kinds of birds. The camp also has a butterfly garden where you can frolic with the rainbow-colored butterflies. The spiders gallery in the camp has its own surprises - native and big spiders, many of them imported from the Amazon jungles of South America. It is so nice to capture a moment with a butterfly is on your hand or shoulder!
Don’t miss the life surviving demonstration at Jest Camp. You’ll be amazed how a person can survive with mere bamboo in the forest! I thought then that in order to endure the forest when you are thirsty, you will have to climb a coconut tree and drink coconut juice. But to the native Aetas, it is easier to drink with a young bamboo shoot. You can even start a fire and cook with bamboo. You’ll discover the essentials of bamboo in order to survive in a forest!
Hiking in the heart of the rainforest is a unique experience at the Jest Camp and the surroundings. An overnight stay in the jungle could also be arranged but you should bring your own tent, flash lights and other scouting gadgets.
Some 150 families of the natives called Aetas live inside the Subic Forest. The Pamulaklakin Forest Trails is a starting point of the Eco-life and cultural show from the Aeta community. Pamulaklakin, with its river and big stones, and the big trees surrounding, is a great picnic area!
If there’s an eco tour in Subic, there is a Zoobic Safari, the newest and most popular attraction to give us a chance to see various animals up close or pet them. A chance to hold a tiger cub or a huge python! Most of the animals found there are native of Philippines; others were imported from overseas such as the tigers, ostriches, sheeps, a moon bear and cassowary.
To complete your Zoobic visit, everybody should take the safari ride! You will ride on a jeepney to see the tigers lolling in pools and lazing under the sun.
The thrill of Zoobic Safari ride won’t be complete without tigers chasing your jeep! What a thrilling moment and thanks to the iron mesh of the jeep! Especially when the tour guide swayed live chicken through the jeepney’s window!
Then there are big ostriches also around!
Subic, with its perfect environment, has different recreational facilities, luxurious hotels, marina, beaches, golf greens, eco-tourism, watersports, car and go-kart racing, skating, bowling, cycling, motocross, duty-free shopping, casinos, restaurants, videoke bars and other amusement facilities.
If there’s Zoobic Safari for land animal lesson tour, there’s another attraction in Subic to introduce you to the water habitats, the Ocean Adventure.
Subic Bay offers different kinds of nightlife from floating bar to beach shore restaurants. Different recreation sports also available. Go karting, golf, horse riding at El Kabayo, tennis, basketball, swimming pools available everywhere!
I like the Tree Top Adventure where I can soar from tree to tree while securely suspended face down and feet up, or I may able to quench my adrenaline in this thrilling trail while rappelling down the side of a 60-foot tree or to ride in a motorized cable 100 feet above the ground or even trek in the jungle!
Small beaches can be found inside Subic Bay. Many water sports and adventures are available. Jet Ski, kayaking, aqua cycles, platoon ride are available for those who want to tour and discover Subic.
For scuba divers, Subic oceans will give you an ultimate experience of discovering wrecks. Subic’s World War II (WWII) wrecks covered almost the entire war period. No less than 25 Japanese ships were reported sunk during the war years. Some of these may have been removed in the late fifties as salvage operations were done to open up the bay for shipping. Nineteen of these fabulous war wrecks have been discovered. Additional ships were sunk after the war either as targets or victims of mother nature. The area is not limited to WWII wrecks, at the entrance to the bay alongside Grande Island, is the Spanish American war wreck San Quintin. Outside the bay in deep water lies what remains of a Spanish Galleon as well as a 16th century Chinese Junk and they are beyond diving range.
There are lots of activities available for the entire family at Subic Bay. Things to do there won’t pose a problem to any individual. So see you this Holy Week at Subic!
For comments, email gagabytes@gmail.com
A veritable rest break away from the city
By JO ERLINDA G. NEBRES
Printed March 10, 2009
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Therapeutic breath in a warm tranquil place, lying in a finely white sand
Arriving at La Luz Resort, one could not possibly believe a jewel resort existed in Batangas. A cozy, beauteous and picturesque beach with pleasing accommodations is hard to miss! Nevertheless, one cannot forget a utopian beach…
La Luz Beach Resort is an aspiring place to an impeccable escape from fussy life of busy city. Resting under a white umbrella, lying lazily in a foam beach wooden chaise lounge, star gazing at night, enjoying the sultry air, or behind the elegantly lacy white curtains of a four post wooden outdoor cottage with nipa roof of cabana.
La Luz Beach Resort is a privately owned beach resort which was recently opened to the public but its owners have maintained its orderliness and cleanliness. There’s no loud music, no crowd or vendors to pester you during your stay. You can enjoy your break at the wooden chaise lounge while drinking their lush shake of mango fruits - an idyllic place to relax!
If you are seeking for water adventure, La Luz is not a diving spot but there are two dive spots available near the resort. A motorized banca is available for rent for those who wish to do an island hopping or snorkeling at shore. You would be surprised with what you would find during your underwater exploration.
La Luz is located in Barangay Laiya in
I will never forget a perfect serene place like La Luz Beach Resort. The romantically-elegantly dressed cabana, the white sand, the
A solitary retreat is hard to find. La Luz Beach Resort is an ideal rest oasis for everybody! It's the ultimate haven for honeymoon or romantic gateway for its simplicity and tranquility -- a lavish atmosphere of adventure for amatory affairs!
There is not a single television available at La Luz Beach Resort. One either has to enjoy its veritable luxury in harmony of mini-break, rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life or work to enjoy the nature.
While you’re there, you might want to try hiking at
If you are looking for nightlife, this place is not for you. The place is best suited for people who are up for a revitalizing and peaceful beach experience.
Don’t forget to buy tuba or lambanog (coco wine or coco vodka) and palayok (clay potteries) on your way home.
For comments, email gagabytes@gmail.com.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
A Dreamy Haven
A Dreamy Haven By JO ERLINDA G. NEBRES Printed in Fil-Am Megascene Chicago February 25, 2009
Basking under the cerulean sky, lying lazily at the immaculate white sandy beach beside the calm waves of the azure seawater makes a getaway perfect for intimate moment at Caramoan Peninsula !
There is no paradise like Caramoan Peninsula, the hidden treasure of the Philippines located in the province of Camarines Sur!
Getting there, you will readily fall in love with the beautiful place. Its beauty never stops to entice each visitor who comes to this place. The pristine white sand and the crystal indigo sea found in the cape of Caramoan are very alluring to the eyes of many. You’ll never stop wondering what’s beyond this dazzling azure water when riding in a boat. What promises lies ahead?
Seashore that can match a beach in Miami, Florida and privacy, a quiet, serene Caramoan Peninsula can be a wonderful retreat, a seventh heaven to be part and enjoy the nature. The place has its own beauty and pride of its own uniqueness. An undeniably charming paradise!
Caramoan Peninsula’s beaches are truly magnificent with its immaculate powdery white sand surrounded by sparkling cerulean water, unexploited by commercial tourism. Each beach has its own uniqueness.
Touring around the place gives island hopping a new significance to witness its enthralling beauty in many ways. A great ocean adventures for kayakers, snorkel and scuba dive to experience the diverse marine life, trek and search for the unfathomable lagoon, rock climb the limestone cliffs, explore the caves or star gazing at night!
There are many islands and caves clustered in Caramoan to hop around, each boasting its own beauty and individuality.
Here are some exciting islands to see.
The Lahos Island, the most popular, has its name which means "overflow" where the sea can wash over a part of this narrow island from one side to the other.
Matukad Island exemplifies the portrait of a perfect tropical island.
Honongan Island is the first resort in Caramoan to open. This hundred-room development is set off the cliff facing the beach. Its beachfront has beautiful views of immaculate islands right across the calm sea.
Island hopping won’t be complete without seeing the mysteriously majestic caves. Omang Cave is part of the Caramoan National Park located in Barangay Paniman and Barangay Ilawod. Its entrance is about 30 feet above sea level and the interior is like architecturally designed. The air is very cool inside. It is dark and, if lighted, shows extravagant beauty. It is like entering a new dimension of a limestone world.
The most intriguing Manipis Cave is located at Barangay Pandanan. It is believed that General Yamashita hid his treasure in this cave but you don’t need to look any further for the cave is a treasure in itself!
This cave has rich guano reserve.
Calapnitan Cave in Libmanan contains countless stalactites and pillars ranging from massive to extremely delicate. Thousands of bats make this cave their home. The site of the hundreds of bats also is a very extraordinary spectacle. Their presence provides a very good source of guano supply and phosphate.
The fresh cool water from the underground stream of Taisan is simply irresistible in Bulang-Bugang Cave. Explore the deep underground river of the cave.
Don’t miss the twin waterfalls of Itbog Falls in Sta. Cruz Buhi and the Malacsay Falls in Mt. Isarog in Panicuason. The cascading water measures about 40 feet from the top to a wide pond below.
Malacsay Falls could compare with famous waterfalls in the Philippines like the Pagasanjan Falls in Laguna.
There are many activities to do and places to see in this dreamy haven of Caramoan Peninsula and there 's a lot of natural wonders to discover. Island hopping, swimming, skin diving, limestone cliff expeditions, snorkeling, scuba diving, caving or spelunking, rock climbing , hiking, beach camping, kayaking, inland and island lagoon exploration, sea and marine cave adventures, subterranean river adventures and gold panning!
Whew! Aren’t these adventures enough for you to entice you to come in one paradise called Caramoan Peninsula? Think of getting thrilled in wakeboarding on your way home?
Let’s have fun basking under the sun and explore the many islands of Caramoan Peninsula together! Email me at gagabytes@yahoo.com.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Experience the very unique Bohol
By JO ERLINDA G. NEBRES
Printed in Philippines Today US
February 18, 2009
Did you know that the tarsier was the inspiration of the famous movie E.T. of Stephen Spielberg? Yes, it’s true. Stephen Spielberg used the tarsier-look for the lead character ET of the movie E.T
. Tarsiers can be found in
There are many tourist spots to visit there and fine dining restaurants and great accommodations,too.
. Swimming or diving is a must for every diving enthusiast in Bohol's
Many fine dining restaurants available in the area offers different specialties. Seafoods, native delicacies, Westerners dishes and many choices to choose from when in comes to dining in the province. Try the Pyramid in Aloha Kew to experience the dampa type of restaurant wherein you will need to buy in the wet market for food and render in the restaurant their cooking services. Whether you like it grilled, in soup or you might want it spicy, sour or anything, just give the restaurant your instructions.
When it comes to dining, Loboc River Cruise Lunch is a must visit cruise-restaurant in
Bohol Bee farm has a unique food to offer. They serve natural organic food freshly picked from the farm that actually not seen in the market.
Your travel won’t be complete without trying the local sweet delicacies – Peanut Kisses, Calamay and Broas. Don’t forget to bring ‘Bagol ng
So, come to
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
A Magical Night in Donsol River
A magical night in Donsol River
By JO ERLINDA G. NEBRES
February 10, 2009
Published in Philippines Today US
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Fairy tale stories will come alive in river boating in the long Donsol River in Sorsogon. It’s an extraordinary experience and a different kind of river boating. Night rowing might seem eerie to you, but in Donsol, magic reveals when the sun sets in.
An imaginable experience starts around 5:30 in the afternoon. River cruising in a small boat while waiting for darkness to envelop the place is worthy doing. You’ll be awestruck by the beautiful view of the sunset and feel yourself melt as the color of the sky changes to a deep orange and the sun falls into the calm Donsol river waters.
As the sky blackens, the mystery unfolds as few tiny lights start to emerge around you. While observing them, you can’t imagine the thousands to millions of little lights already there surrounding you.
The unfathomable fireflies swimming in the air, glow-dancing and forming like a giant Christmas tree around the lined-up mangrove trees beside the river. You could even see its lights reflecting on the river water.
The river is like an enchanted place which comes alive from the fairy tale story. The site of thousands to millions of little fire balls with wings swimming around you, the moon and the billions of stars twinkling above you makes you young at heart. It’s delightful to watch the entire place. The only light would be the stars and the moon and the immeasurable numbers of fireflies that brighten the area. At times, you cannot even tell the stars from the fireflies!
When the boat river tour is over, one can't help but shed tears. How beautiful the world really is!
The picture of glowing lights from the water up to the skies above will continue to dance in your mind!
Rarely do we see fireflies in nowadays. In fact, firefly-watching tours are not available in all countries but only in three countries in Asia and Philippines is one of them.
Visual feast of fireflies won’t end during your visit to Donsol. Donsol is rich with locally known Butanding or whale shark. You might want to have an interaction with giant whale shark while you are there. A once in a lifetime experience to see fireflies and whale sharks!
Let the magic unfold before your very eyes. Witness the enchanting place like Donsol River at night. Let the magical experience starts by emailing gagabytes@yahoo.com.
By JO ERLINDA G. NEBRES
February 10, 2009
Published in Philippines Today US
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Fairy tale stories will come alive in river boating in the long Donsol River in Sorsogon. It’s an extraordinary experience and a different kind of river boating. Night rowing might seem eerie to you, but in Donsol, magic reveals when the sun sets in.
An imaginable experience starts around 5:30 in the afternoon. River cruising in a small boat while waiting for darkness to envelop the place is worthy doing. You’ll be awestruck by the beautiful view of the sunset and feel yourself melt as the color of the sky changes to a deep orange and the sun falls into the calm Donsol river waters.
As the sky blackens, the mystery unfolds as few tiny lights start to emerge around you. While observing them, you can’t imagine the thousands to millions of little lights already there surrounding you.
The unfathomable fireflies swimming in the air, glow-dancing and forming like a giant Christmas tree around the lined-up mangrove trees beside the river. You could even see its lights reflecting on the river water.
The river is like an enchanted place which comes alive from the fairy tale story. The site of thousands to millions of little fire balls with wings swimming around you, the moon and the billions of stars twinkling above you makes you young at heart. It’s delightful to watch the entire place. The only light would be the stars and the moon and the immeasurable numbers of fireflies that brighten the area. At times, you cannot even tell the stars from the fireflies!
When the boat river tour is over, one can't help but shed tears. How beautiful the world really is!
The picture of glowing lights from the water up to the skies above will continue to dance in your mind!
Rarely do we see fireflies in nowadays. In fact, firefly-watching tours are not available in all countries but only in three countries in Asia and Philippines is one of them.
Visual feast of fireflies won’t end during your visit to Donsol. Donsol is rich with locally known Butanding or whale shark. You might want to have an interaction with giant whale shark while you are there. A once in a lifetime experience to see fireflies and whale sharks!
Let the magic unfold before your very eyes. Witness the enchanting place like Donsol River at night. Let the magical experience starts by emailing gagabytes@yahoo.com.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Palawan's enchanting underground river
TRAVEL TIME
Jo Erlinda G. Nebres
Published in Philippines Today
http://www.philippinestodayus.com
Marvelous! Enchanting! Extraordinairy! Wow!
These are a few words to describe this-must-see
This simply unique underground river has been known as the world's largest underground river and is found in Puerto Princesa,
The mystical eight-kilometer St.
Outside this cave, you can lie down sunbathing on a pristine, powdery white sand beach or begin snorkeling on the emerald blue waters on the coast! Nothing beats the excitement of cruising in a mystical underground river!
From Puerto Princesa it will take you two hours drive to the pier where a boat ride takes you to the underground river. Going to the underground river is an adventure itself. Upon reaching the island, there is a little bit of trekking on a forest trails leading off into the jungle. One of these leads to a boat lan
ding point where you charter your boat and boatman to take you into the caves. While hiking, there are monkeys and large monitor lizards roaming freely. You can hear and watch many beautiful birds there! The entrance to the underground river is a sight to see with its calm deep blue green water encased by sharp, pointed rocks!
Now, going inside the underground river is another totally different experience. More mystery unfolds. If you’re afraid of the dark and deep water, then this adventure could pose a problem for you. Each boat carries one light only that primarily points to fantastic stalagmites. The boat ride is quite long, more than 30 minutes and if I remember correctly, covers at least four kilometers of the distance but when riding on kayaks it will push farther.
On your way back, when you see the opening of the river, you kind of heave a sigh of relief because the ride is almost over. Then again, you’ll see breathtaking sceneries that make you want to stay a bit longer.
Marveling at this one of the
Puerto Princesa, capital of Palawan, prides itself as the cleanest city in the
So come to the
For comments, email gagabytes@yahoo.com.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Blogging - My New Best Friend
Blogging - My New Best Friend
By Jo Erlinda Gabot
January 22, 2009
I’ve been writing for many years now for a Filipino community newspaper in America. I first started as a freelance media relations officer at the Office of the Mayor of Manila. Along the way, I sidelined as a media relations consultant to some officials and friends as I grabbed the opportunity to earn more, taking advantage of my connections with the print, radio and television media editors because my father is one of them.
Last October 2007, I met a tragic car accident in Nasugbu, Batangas. The car I was driving hit a parked gasoline truck which I did not notice because it was dark. Due to the great impact of the collision, my car hood smashed my windshield hitting me in head and face. I woke up in the hospital three days after coma and learned that my nose broke, there were holes in my face and you can even see my skull during my heartbreakingly incident. If it wasn’t by God’s grace, I would not be live again. If you see my totally wrecked car, you would not believe that I would survive that mishap. It was a miracle. A miracle of God.
After operations on my face and broken legs and bones and almost a month of recuperation at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, the doctors finally allowed me to go home. My recovery continued in the house. After several months, I went down to the pit of depression. I could not accept the damages on my face.
My friend advised me to start writing my thoughts down. I went home that night, inspired to write my thoughts. After several write ups, I noticed the word blog on my friendster profile. I began to type blog on the query box of the search engine of Google to get more information about blogging. To my amazement, my query returned huge number of results. I read some of them.
Even when I want to go places to while away time, forget all my troubles, especially my tragic accident, I just go to my blog and find beautiful places, far or near, which you can enjoy and you will be at peace with yourself. The Philippines, my country, has plenty of good and beautiful sites which you can even call paradise. El Nido, Puerto Princesa underground river, Tubatahha Reef, Hundred Islands, Boracay, Coron, Panglao, Siargao -- all gems for tourists, local and foreign. Indeed, blogging has become one of the most effective marketing tool nowadays. You blog and while away time and earn at the same time. Why not?
At that thought, I began using my friendster’s blog. I began putting my masterpiece on the site doing my best to make my blog’s lay-out friendly to my readers.
It’s amazing what blog can do for online marketers. Most especially to the online entrepreneurs and writers like me. Blog today is the most powerful tool for ranking a website in Google search engine. Most Search Engine Optimizers or SEO use blog to drive links to a specified website they wanted to promote for Google love to read texts on the net!
Every writer wants to be read on the net. They want to share their thoughts to the world. The writers' challenge is to encourage readers to agree on what’s written on their blog. They want to be seen on the world of W3’s. They want to gain popularity as a blogger and to gain avid readers and friends thru their site.
As a blogger, I am happy to know that someone read my articles or someone commented on it. I was surprised at first when lots of readers commented on my articles although I don’t even know them. I never invited them. Wow! Next thing I knew I began researching on how search engine works and learned the importance of quality content of the articles to the ranking of Google’s search engine.
It’s really fun to write. It’s really engaging to blog. It is every writer’s new best friend. Most especially, it is free to blog. It’s free to share your thoughts. Make one now. You might never know what writing and blogging your thoughts can do to your life.
Blogging has played a significant role in my road to full recovery, physically, spiritually and emotionally. Now, I am so confident and optimistic about the world we live in. Sharing one's thoughts verbally to your friends, acquaintances or even to not so friendly folk isn't that easy. But through blog, this best friend of mine, I can now share everything to the world!
A Very Unique Bohol
Experience the Very Unique Bohol
By Jojie Gabot
January 29, 2008
Did you know that the tarsier has been the inspiration of the famous movie E.T. of Stephen Spielberg? Yes, it’s true. Stephen Spielberg used the tarsier-look for the lead character ET of the movie ET. This tarsier can be found in Bohol, Philippines.
Bohol is the home of unique tarsier, the smallest mammal in the world. This cannot be found in other country except in Borneo and Indonesia.
Bohol is famous for the matchless chocolate hills, world’s smallest primate tarsiers, pristine white sand beaches, dive spots, and old stone churches.
There are many tourist spots to visit there and fine dining restaurants and great accommodations can be found.
Getting to Bohol province is accessible by land transportation. When in province the unique shape of thousand of hills called Chocolate hills are the first destinations of most people who visit there. It is matchless. You cannot find anywhere like it but in Bohol. It is a pride of every Boholanos living there.
Few springs can be found there. Caves exploration can be done for a few caves can be found in different towns of Bohol. Swimming or diving is a must for every diving enthusiast to explore in Panglao Island. Whale and dolphins everywhere!
Panglao Island is well-known destination for divers who love to discover marine life. Hotel and resorts in the Island offers scuba lessons for scuba aspirants. If not interested in scuba, there are lots of activities you can do. Swimming, dolphin watching, jet skiing, kayaking, snorkeling and more water sports and activities available in the hotel and resorts of Panglao Island. You might try boating and fishing there.
Many fine dining restaurants available in the area offers different specialties. Seafoods, native delicacies, Westerners dishes and many choices to choose from when in comes to dining in the province. Try the Pyramid in Aloha Kew to experience the dampa type of restaurant wherein you will need to buy in the wet market for food and render in the restaurant their cooking services. Whether you like it grilled, in soup or you might want in spicy, sour or anything, just give the restaurant your instructions.
When it comes to dining, Loboc River Cruise Lunch is a must visit cruise-restaurant in Bohol. The food and service is superb! A man will serenade you some 80’s songs and some Spanish songs while eating and cruising the Loboc River. Curiosity behind the jungle scenarios might want you to try hiking amid the jungles. What a spectacular dining experience!
Bohol Bee farm has a unique food to offer. They serve natural organic food freshly pick from the farm that actually not seen in the market.
Your travel won’t be complete without trying the local sweet delicacies – Peanut Kisses, Calamay and Broas. Don’t forget to bring ‘Bagol ng Bohol’, a sweet dessert from coconut milk, grind glutinous rice, brown sugar, and peanut.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
IT'S PARADISE!
It's Paradise!
Jo Erlinda Gabot
March 27, 2008
A fun way to start snorkeling begins
at Long Beach, Puerto Galera
Many of my friends would ask me, why do I always want to go to the beaches?
I’ve never been addicted to the beach, though I was trained to swim during college. I hate beaches for their salty water and it irritates my skin and eyes! I didn’t enjoy swimming there for my fear that something would actually attack me. I usually spend my time at the shores making sand castle or enjoy grilled food at the cottages there.
My first experience in Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro last summer 2006 changed everything. My badminton peers went there for three days and spent time at the San Antonio Island. The first time I saw the water, it was really inviting for its clearness. The sooner I put down my traveling bag, I immediately spent practicing snorkeling. There, I saw colorful and unique sea creatures that I’ve never seen in my whole life that close.
The following day, we rented a motorized banca and went island hopping. Our first stop was Puerto Galera’s famous Giant Clam Shells.
As my first time snorkeling experience in deep water, I made sure that there was someone beside me or there was a person I see not far from me.
From the Giant Clam Shell, we took our stop in an island where there is cave for our picnic lunch.
Our next stop, the most important place a first-timer should be in, was Long Beach . On the Long Beach shore, you mustn’t forget to rent a banca to take you to see the bountiful rainbow-colored coral garden! You wouldn’t ride in that small motorized banca. Youʼll grab a piece of handle beside it, and it will pull you to the destination while snorkeling and feeding the fishes.
A very exhilarating experienced that surely no one can ever forget. A first close encounter by hundreds and hundreds of different species of fish eagerly and waiting for their turn to take a piece of food in your hand! You can even hold and feel the fish as you feed them. What a spectacular sight and a mind-blowing experience! It’s like being inside a gigantic aquarium. To add to the momentum, you’ll see the coral gardens and reefs multi-colored in all shades of the rainbow deep below. There are shallow coral gardens, interesting rock formations, and colorful species to watch, like crabs, shrimps, sea anemones, moray, and trumpet fishes.
When it was time to leave, all of us didn’t want to reach the shore. We continued snorkeling and there I begun my own venture alone. After gaining my confidence in snorkeling, I wandered around and looked for something more interesting.
Before going back to our cottage, we stopped at Coco Beach Resort Hotel and had a few drinks and rented kayaks.
As our second and last night, we went to White beach for a party! I was amazed that there were many people there. It was jam-packed and full. You can’t even find a table immediately. Every adult looking for a drink should try their Mindoro Sling!
After that unforgettable experience in Puerto Galera, I had wanted to go snorkelling there again and again. And maybe find another place as beautiful as the waters of this famous place and its denizens in its pristine waters.
Yes, Puerto Galera. My tropical paradise.
Send comments to gagabytes@yahoo.com
The blue waters of Anilao beckon
The blue waters of Anilao beckon
This Batangas adventure zone is only 4 hours away from Manila
By Jo Erlinda Gabot
Printed in Philippines Today
Anilao in Batangas is world renowned for diving and snorkeling wannabes. The waters are teeming with marine life, bountiful and colorful corals, and amazing diversity of fishes.
It seems hard to imagine that this beautiful place is only 3 to 4 hours away from Manila .
In the amazing blue waters of Anilao, many diving spots can be found. You can arrange and rent a motor banca for island hopping to discover them.
Never mind the sunburn; it will disappear. Never mind the jellyfish that irritates the skin; it is but transient. What will certainly remain after your trip here would be great memories of swimming and snorkelling, and the beautiful pictures of sea and sun of Anilao.
This marine playground is just 140 kilometers away from Manila , and access is now made easy with cemented roads. More importantly, it literally faces the haven of marine biodiversity in the world, sharing the same waters as Isla Verde and the islands of Sulu Sea such as Apo Reef and the farther but world famous Tubbataha Reef.
There are over 300 species of corals in Anilao, and one dive site alone – the Cathedral Rock – is said to have more coral species than the entire Carribean!
Yet, you do not have to be a scuba diver to appreciate Anilao or its marine wonders: the reefs are just steps away from the shore – just be careful lest you step upon the razor-sharp corals!
A whole day of fun in the shore with lots of water sports adventures available for rent. Enjoy swimming and before the very end of the day you will find damselfish, clownfish, sea anemones, nudibranches and, of course, the coral clusters in a rich array of colors and textures!
At the end of the day, you can celebrate the phenomenon of the sunset sitting at the beach as fleeting as other wonders of nature- yet more poignantly so!
Surely, Anilao is hard to miss!
This Batangas adventure zone is only 4 hours away from Manila
By Jo Erlinda Gabot
Printed in Philippines Today
Anilao in Batangas is world renowned for diving and snorkeling wannabes. The waters are teeming with marine life, bountiful and colorful corals, and amazing diversity of fishes.
It seems hard to imagine that this beautiful place is only 3 to 4 hours away from Manila .
In the amazing blue waters of Anilao, many diving spots can be found. You can arrange and rent a motor banca for island hopping to discover them.
Never mind the sunburn; it will disappear. Never mind the jellyfish that irritates the skin; it is but transient. What will certainly remain after your trip here would be great memories of swimming and snorkelling, and the beautiful pictures of sea and sun of Anilao.
This marine playground is just 140 kilometers away from Manila , and access is now made easy with cemented roads. More importantly, it literally faces the haven of marine biodiversity in the world, sharing the same waters as Isla Verde and the islands of Sulu Sea such as Apo Reef and the farther but world famous Tubbataha Reef.
There are over 300 species of corals in Anilao, and one dive site alone – the Cathedral Rock – is said to have more coral species than the entire Carribean!
Yet, you do not have to be a scuba diver to appreciate Anilao or its marine wonders: the reefs are just steps away from the shore – just be careful lest you step upon the razor-sharp corals!
A whole day of fun in the shore with lots of water sports adventures available for rent. Enjoy swimming and before the very end of the day you will find damselfish, clownfish, sea anemones, nudibranches and, of course, the coral clusters in a rich array of colors and textures!
At the end of the day, you can celebrate the phenomenon of the sunset sitting at the beach as fleeting as other wonders of nature- yet more poignantly so!
Surely, Anilao is hard to miss!
Calatagan, a perfect getaway for whole family
Calatagan, a perfect getaway for whole family
By Jo Erlinda Gabot
Posted in Philippine News Today US, September 18, 2008
As a mother of four - my youngest is three and my eldest is 12 - I always scout for a nice and affordable vacation place during summer. In 2006, I discovered Calatagan, Batangas and my family and I have been going there since.
The first time I arrived at Ivory Beach Resort in Calatagan, I immediately was awed by its beauty. For only 50 pesos per person, the beach is yours for a memorable ocean adventure.
Add a few more pesos and you can stay for a day plus free table and chairs! If you want to stay overnight, just pay double and rent a room.
But I don’t prefer renting room. I suggest you bring your own tent for the whole family to make and enjoy bonfire at night. You don’t need a picnic hut to rent. It’s full of trees to give you a very nice shed even during summer.
Bring your ipod with speakers if you want music while having barbecue during the stay.
For only a few know the still and clear water white sand beaches there. The place is quiet and not crowded and thus is good for a whole family, like you are renting a private resort.
The whole family will get to enjoy a nice swim on Calatagan’s shallow clear water even a small kid could manage. Give them snorkeling gadgets, they will enjoy a whole day of fun at the sea or give them a big bucket, it will return to you full of starfishes and shells!
Calatagan shore is a fun way to explore the marine life living between South China Sea and Balayan Bay .
The coast is full of sea grass. Different color of shells, starfishes, crabs and colorful fishes can be found at the clear stumpy water which are a good starting place to introduce snorkeling for children.
You have to walk long before you get into an inter-tidal zone, a very interesting place for people who are interested in marine life and biology.
You’ll get the chance to enjoy the view of sunset. Sunsets in Calatagan are very beautiful and enchanting because it’s right on the west coast of Batangas.
If you want to see a coral reef garden, try to visit the Elizalde Beach resort. There you’ll find a big sign ‘Danger Zone’! Yes it’s a very dangerous zone, yet you’ll find the amazing coral reef garden in a sheer drop! Next to it is real deep water. You can’t even see the seabed and what lies ahead. So beware for those who are just starting into snorkel. I suggest even for the expert swimmer and snorkelers to put on their life vest.
Don’t forget to ride a motorized banca in early morning during low tide to take you to the islet of white sand! Surely, you’ll love to walk and swim on very shallow sugary white sand. Beside it, it’s for a snorkel wannabe exploration!
Calatagan in Batangas is only about two hours away from Manila via the South Luzon Expressway, into the Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Highway and on to Batangas.
So, see you there!
My Ever Beautiful Story
My Ever Beautiful Story
Jojie Gabot
Hi! I have a beautiful story to tell -- as beautiful as my name suggests. I am Jo Erlinda Maufit Gabot, born in Makati City on September 15, 1975. I am 33 years old now and the second child of Maria Josefina Saballa Maufit Gabot of Malalam, Ilagan, Isabela, Philippines and Alfredo G. Gabot of Binalonan, Pangasinan both scholars of the city government of Manila at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM).
I have a unique and beautiful name. My father who is a writer and journalist says he gave me my name Jo for sweetheart and Erlinda which is Spanish for ever beautiful. My name, therefore, means "Ever Beautiful Sweetheart."
I studied at the Colegio de San Agustin, Saint Scholastica's College and later at the Colegio de San Juan de Letran in the historic Spanish walled city of Intramuros.
I am married to Brian Ramos Nebres of Cavite City and we have two handsome boys and two beautiful girls now – Ian-jo Nicholas who was born at the UCLA Harbor Medical Center at Torrance City in Los Angeles, California on November 5, 1995; Jiean Carlo (March 16, 1997), Ysabelle Denise, (November 10, 1999) and Amelia Zoe (July 8,2004).
For several years, I worked at the office of my Godfather, Mayor Lito Atienza Jr. of Manila who is making great as Mayor of Manila. Now, I am following the steps of my father as a writer and your blogger. I have not completed my college studies and have no high-paying-job or career, but by bringing my happy, healthy children into the world, has been the most rewarding job of all -- being a caring and loving mother...
Being a mother or parent is a big responsibility but its one you would not trade for anything else. In fact, it's the best thing that ever happened to me. God has given me the most awesome, wonderful, and special chance to care for other souls -- to fully nurture and love without question. As a mother, you witness in your midst a miracle -- how your beautiful babies grow into handsome and gorgeous kids and grow into adorable little person with unique personality and charm. That, I think, is the greatest gift of motherhood!
When that little baby gives you a toothless grin in a dimly lit room in the middle of the night, while changing his diaper -- everything melts away. You forget your headaches, all the aches and pains vanish and without noticing it, you suddenly feel good and strong. Seeing your baby grow, you will discover the world around you all over again through your child's eyes. Seeing butterflies, hearing the sound of an airplane, helicopter, even the sound of a leaf falling to the ground, etc. The simplest things make children happy, and those are the things that I have often taken for granted or forget about.
Tsinoys' New Year in Manila
Tsinoys' New Year in
By JO ERLINDA GABOT
The Chinese Filipinos or tsinoys have always been one of largest ethnic Filipino groups in the country with Chinese immigrants comprising the largest group of immigrant settlers in the
They are mostly business owners and their life centers mostly in the family business. These mostly small and medium enterprises play a significant role in the Philippine economy. A handful of these entrepreneurs run large companies and are respected as some of the most prominent business tycoons in the
Aside from their family businesses, Chinese Filipinos are active in civic organizations related to education, health care, public safety, social welfare and public charity. As most Chinese Filipinos are reluctant to participate in politics and government, they have instead turned to civic organizations as their primary means of contributing to the general welfare of the Chinese-Filipino community and to the betterment of Philippine society.
Chinese New Year or Spring Festival is a major festivity of Tsinoys here in the country. It is the first day of the Chinese calendar, which follows the lunar year cycle. The celebration may fall on any day from January 21 to February 21 depending on when the first new moon of the lunar year comes. Each year is named for one of twelve animals in turn: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, or Pig.
One Chinese new year when I was still working at
I was in awed seeing Binondo jampacked with Chinese during that time as they usually do. There were tsinoys and pinoys who merrily went out to the road mostly wearing red garments, the same color of lanterns and decorations piled outside many business establishments of the streets. I learned red is the favorite color for Chinese New Year clothing and decorations, as it is said to bring good luck. It symbolizes fire. They believed fire drive away evil and to frighten away a legendary monster that terrorizes people on New Year’s Eve.
There were lots of enormous dragon heads with long body of colorful fabric performing in a vibrant and energetic dance maneuvered by skilled operators roaming on streets of firecrackers!
Residents or business owners who want the dragons/lions to cleanse their homes and bring good fortune hang "ang pao" containing cash, with the words hi (happiness), sin (long life), and kiong hi huat tsai (congratulations and prosperity) printed on it at the top of their gates or doors. The lion dancers demonstrate their strength and skill as they climb to reach the red envelopes. After getting an envelope, the dragon/lion does a short victory dance, bows three times in thanks, and moves on to look for the next one.
I never forget when this Chinese friend and I went to the Estero, famous for Chinese carenderia, where I ate an enormous meal my whole life! Pancit Bihon, uncut noodles, lots of dumplings, duck, sticky rice, shrimps, different fish menu, oyster cake, different kinds green vegetables! I kept complaining while eating. I couldn’t indulge them all. It was just the two of us to eat a real enormous meal! I never forget until now how it felt forcing yourself to eat and swallow food when you are full. It’s like you need to go to restroom and vomit to take another swallow! He kept telling me that I should eat all of them and explaining each food its significance on welcoming the New Year.
Long noodles are said to signify a long and prosperous life. You should eat fish to ensure abundance and a good beginning and end to the New Year. Shrimp to attract happiness, dumplings is to pack luck on your life. You eat veggies not because they are nutritious, I remember him saying, it is because you need to build family ties closer. Duck or chicken represents good marriage and family. You have to eat the rice to have your family stay in unity.
After a mind-blowing experience of the enormous feast, I panicked as he dropped the three red boxes on the table. Seems he noticed my reaction, he immediately told me, “It’s for you to eat. Not here but before the festival ends for you to have a full prosperous year! It will make the kitchen god's jaw glued shut, to prevent him from making an unfavorable report on your journey this coming new year.”
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