Wandering around museums

“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”

~ Pablo Picasso

If you find reading books to learn about a country’s history and culture too tedious, go to museums. That’s a more exciting way of learning given that there are visuals to aid it. And museums, being (mostly) quiet, offer a break from the daily nuisance of a bustling city.

BenCabMuseum

It seemed unlikely, but in spite of living in Baguio City for 9 months, I didn’t visit the BenCab Museum. When I went back to the place a year later in January, 2017, it was originally part of my itinerary. But curling up during chilly mornings in Baguio is irresistible, so instead of going out early, I heeded the bed’s call.

Being an item in my bucket list this year, it must be ticked off, so in May, when my friends and I went to Baguio (my second visit this year), we went to the distant museum despite the limited time we had.

BenCab Museum is located along Asin Road in Tadiangan, Tuba, Benguet, a 20- to 30-minute drive from the city proper. If you plan to go there via taxi cab, I suggest that you ask the driver to come back for you at a specified time, or ask him to wait for you, then pay him extra according to the accumulated distance, or time. Otherwise, you will have to wait for your turn, which takes a while, on the taxi line. There are public market-bound jeepneys passing by the area, but most of them are full.

The museum has four levels, starting from the Street Level (where you enter, register, and pay the P120 admission fee) all the way down to the Farm & Garden Level where Café Sabel is situated. Heads up: They don’t use paper cups, so don’t expect that you can take your coffee out. It’s a museum after all, food and beverage is not allowed in the galleries.

The Farm & Garden Level offers a picturesque landscape that serves as backdrop in photos taken by guests. You’ll love the fog obscuring the green mountains, the cottage in the middle of the pond, and the chilly breeze hugging the surroundings.

Out and about for adventure

Bahay ni Tuding is the place to go to if you’re traveling on a budget. Sure, there’s nothing spectacular about it. It’s like your old house-turned-boutique hotel, but it afforded me a quaint breakfast I enjoyed a lot.

The hearty meal was composed of toasted bread, jam, fruits and yogurt, and, of course, hot brewed coffee—something I couldn’t live without even when traveling. I was glad it was brewed coffee; not an instant 3-in-1 most budget hotels usually serve.

I had a nice sleep and since I got all the time in the world (well, for 3 days at least), I took the opportunity to wander around the place for a bit.

Except for the room bearing no windows, the hotel is nice overall. For only P1,000 a night, I enjoyed a nice bed, a bathroom with a water heater, hearty breakfast, and accommodating staff. You don’t get that much for a thousand bucks these days.

Oops, sorry for the quick review. Now, let me get down to business.

I allotted two days to go out and about for adventure in one of the cleanest cities I’ve been to so far. I did some research on the best spots to visit and the best places to eat at. My friend even found it hilarious that I got everything planned a few months back. She was laughing at me for being overly prepared for my Davao trip.

But, the thing about traveling is, not everything needs to go as planned. There’s always room for adjustment. I prepared a list of places I wanted to visit, but I ended up rehashing my itinerary.

Now, what follows is a list of the best spots and the best activities, and you don’t necessarily need to plan your trip according to it, but I bet you’ll have the best memories of your Davao trip if you tick everything off.

MUSEUMS

Museyo Dabawenyo

Never leave Davao City without paying Museyo Dabawenyo a visit. In fact, I suggest that you place this at the top of your itinerary, because this is one way of knowing and understanding Davao’s culture. Entrance is free. A guide will tell you stories about how Davao got its name, about the different tribes and ethnic groups in Davao, and many more. Take note though that you’re not allowed to take photos inside.

First night's mission: Experience downtown Davao

I took a deep breath as soon as I stepped out of the arrival area at the Francisco Bangoy International Airport (Davao City International Airport). It was both a feeling of relief that I made it to NAIA on time and of great satisfaction that I finally got the chance to travel again after a while. I’m blessed to be here.

Wasting no time, I hailed a cab to take me to the hotel where I was billeted at. I was in a dilemma at first though. I thought that if I took a cab at the airport, the driver might ask for a higher fare, just like what taxi drivers in Manila do most of the time. I thought of walking towards the gate leading outside the airport’s vicinity and hail a cab there instead, but I immediately dismissed the idea as soon as I realized that doing so would require much effort.

It was 7:45 pm and my stomach was starting to grumble, so I swallowed all bits of hesitation. The taxi driver was courteous enough to admit that he didn’t know where my hotel was located, so I just pulled out my phone and fired away Google Maps. I found the exact location and told the driver where to take me to. He obliged.

I initiated a conversation with him by asking a few questions, starting with, “Are you going to ask for an additional amount on top of the metered fare?” I almost sounded suspicious rather than inquisitive, but the driver willingly answered my query.

“Ay, bawal po dito ‘yan, Sir. Bawal pong mangontrata dito,” he said.

(“That’s not tolerated here, Sir. Demanding a fixed amount is not allowed here.”)

That’s great! My first impression: Dabawenyos are honest, obedient and disciplined.

We talked a bit more about the traits of Dabawenyos, the tourist spots, the food, the surroundings, and the bombing that shocked the nation, among others. That’s one way of getting to know the place—asking questions and seeing from the perspective of a local.

About 20 minutes later, we arrived at Bahay ni Tuding where I settled down for a few minutes before heading out for a night stroll. My mission: Wander around and experience downtown Davao at night. Oh, yes, Bahay ni Tuding is in the downtown area where you can find almost everything.

Since the hotel’s restaurant was already closed by the time I arrived, I opted to dine out. The receptionist advised me to try Kusina Dabaw. I obliged.

I found in the menu a dish that was new to my ears. Balbacua. I asked the waitress what it was, but since my stomach was already complaining, I placed my order upon hearing “beef.” Several minutes later, my order was served and, well, it was something I never expected. Apparently, balbacua is a thick soup dish with cow’s skin, seasoned with chives. I learned later on that it is a specialty dish in Davao and there’s a place in the public market called Balbacuahan, a strip of eateries serving the dish.

I didn’t like it though. Not that it wasn’t delicious at all; it just wasn’t my type of food.

As it turned out, I didn’t have a satisfying dinner, so I strolled around, looking for some redemption.

I stumbled upon a brightly lit old house that had been turned into a café and bar. Letting my curiosity take over, I entered Claude's Le Caféde Ville.

Davao adventure—my first shot at solo traveling

Part 1: Sprinting to the airport

All the seats by the window were taken, so I had no choice but to settle for a middle seat.

I thought I wouldn’t make it to the airport on time. At 3:45 PM, I was still on the MRT, wishing that it was a bullet train I was riding on. This is bad. My flight is at 6 pm!

At 4 pm, I was still at the station, trying to hail a cab to NAIA Terminal 3, but getting refused every time.

Damn Manila traffic.

I had to use my last resort: Grab Car. With a bit of hesitation, I pulled out my phone, clutched it tight in my hand—lest someone would snatch it—and ran a booking. At that point, I didn’t mind paying a higher amount, which was brought about by the price surge, just to catch my flight. While in the car, crazy thoughts were running in my head.

What if I don’t make it on time? Shall I book another flight? Shall I just stay in Manila and feel sorry for myself for a flopped trip? Shall I go somewhere else and just forget about all the plans I laid out, the paid reservation at the hotel, and all the crazy stuff I should be doing in Davao City?

Then my optimistic side toppled the pessimism. I will make it.

I arrived at the departure area a few minutes before 5. After getting through the X-ray machine and having my bags checked, I went straight to the self service check-in machine, half-walking, half-running and panting the whole time.

A beautiful Cebu Pacific personnel assisted me along the check-in process and in less than a minute, I got my boarding pass. I was then told to go straight to Gate 116, as boarding time was 5:15 pm.

Whew, thank God I made it. Now, I wait.

Bucket list in blissful Boracay

“Wow!”

That exactly was the first word I interjected when I saw Boracay’s enticing blue water. The island is such a beauty no one can ever resist and a destination no one can ever ignore. It boasts of pristine water and powdery white sand—it’s no wonder why people keep going back to this paradise.

It was my first time on the island last month. Before, I could only see it in photos and read about the place over the internet, and it took really long before I got to visit the island, so when I was there, all I did was focus on my precious vacation.

I want your Boracay getaway to be perfect just as mine was, so I prepared this Boracay bucket list for you.

Scenic Sagada

My 2015 planner has this list called “101 Things to do in 2015.” First thing on the list reads, “Enjoy the view in Sagada alone.” When I read that part after I bought the planner in November last year, I thought to myself that it was perfect, because first, I really needed some time alone and was planning to spend it someplace that offers peace of mind, and second, Sagada was my dream destination in the first quarter of the year.

Going to Sagada and appreciating its picturesque views while reconnecting with myself and pondering on things that really matter was the perfect idea to jumpstart the year. The thing is I accomplished neither within the time frame I set.

The amount I was setting aside for my planned Sagada trip was spent on a much higher priority, which was also related to my life as a traveller. Then this relocation thing got in the way and hindered me as well from pushing for the trip due to the load of tasks at hand.

Good thing, a few days before the second quarter ended, an opportunity to finally visit the place knocked on my door, so I grabbed it even without too much of a preparation. I just packed my bags with the essentials and off I went to Sagada—but not alone. That was when I realized that the idea I had in mind wasn’t the perfect idea after all. Travelling with a group was. Enjoying the views of Sagada without the “That Thing Called Tadhana” feeling in my heart was the best experience.

This is the view on the side of the road with the "Welcome to Mountain Province" arc.

C Boutique Hotel: Where your dream staycation comes true

If you're looking for the pefect hotel in Baguio City, read this and be captivated by the beauty and coziness of C Boutique Hotel

At about 5,000 feet above sea level, you can find a jewel that promises an indulgent staycation treat, providing you with the modern comforts of home sans the boring feeling of staying at your own address. C Boutique Hotel in Baguio City is the perfect location for this kind of adventure.

Situated on Arellano St., cor. Moran near Mines View Park, C is not just another hotel; it is the epitome of a rewarding coziness that you’ve always been searching for which is way too evident in their room choices. Once you enter the place, you’ll feel the successful fusion of a modern home’s ambiance and an old Baguio house’s rural tranquility—something that you don’t usually see in the places you visit.

Sungyan Grill: Happiness on a river

A calm river is an irresistible place to many. In its enchanting serenity, one finds peace of mind and a sanctuary to regain inner strength.

Hal Boyle once said, “What makes a river so restful to people is it doesn’t have any doubt—it is sure to get where it is going, and it doesn’t want to go anywhere else.”

But aside from all the metaphors related to a river that feed the soul and replenish lost energy, one can also indulge in an abundant feast that makes the tummy happy. Eating on a scenic river is an idea which sparked the business of Sungayan Grill Floating Restaurant. Opened in 2013, the restaurant embarked on its maiden cruise along the Balingasay River and has become the go-to seafood diner in Bolinao, Pangasinan since then.

How to get there

Once you are in Bolinao, never forget to give this place a try. Before reaching the town proper, turn left on the street located before Carmak. Stay alert and read the signage on either side of the road, which also leads to Patar White Sand Beach, the most frequented spot in the small town.

Entrance to the restaurant is situated a few meters before the bridge over the river.

The pathway made of bamboo will make you appreciate the picturesque view bordering the water.

Tracing back history in Fort Santiago

Every travel starts with an aim. And ours was to wander around and get lost in history.

History classes told me stories of the past. Tales during the Colonial time, the American invasion, the Japanese occupation. Through history, I learned that the Philippines was under Spanish rule for 333 years, that Filipinos cowered in their own country, that men who fought for liberty were punished and executed.
 
Through history, I learned about Dr. Jose Rizal and Fort Santiago--the national hero's final days in the fortress.

Fort Santiago has always been part of my lifetime traveler's itinerary. And recently, I ticked the destination off my list, as I officially set foot on the historical site with an equally adventurous and always curious friend.

We rode on the Pasig River ferry on our way to Intramuros, an experience we quite enjoyed, not only because it was our first time, but also it was indeed exciting. But what awaited us in Intramuros was far more exhilarating.

More than just a paradise

Why you should visit Bolinao and visit it NOW

People have talked and written about Bolinao countless times. In the Internet alone, numerous bloggers have shared their experiences and unforgettable moments in this dazzling town in the province of Pangasinan.

Getting bombarded with stories about the place, perhaps it is time that you finally pack your bags and visit the town.

Taking public transport, you will reach Bolinao in approximately five hours and a half from Manila. Bus trips from terminals in Pasay City and Cubao, Quezon City are available daily. Just remember to check the schedules while planning your trip.

Surely, though, your trip will be shorter if you are to use a private vehicle. Just make it sure to thoroughly check your car or SUV before hitting the road as a precaution against inconveniences.

What to expect

You will not be staying forever in Bolinao, so, just like what we always say when travelling, “make the most out of it!” Explore every corner and discover more adventures than what others have unearthed.

Upon arrival on the town proper, do not forget to visit St. James the Great Parish, a church built by the Augustinians in 1609. Some parts of the building had been restored like the belfry, but the walls have been left untouched.

The facade of St. James the Great Parish

Don't let your vacation get screwed up

Tips for a great getaway

You're excited about your trip to some faraway place with tourist attractions that will surely get your eyes feasting and your heart jumping with glee. But, are you sure you're well prepared? Check out this infographic which will provide you with some tips before finally picking your bag up and getting your ass out to the road.

I dearly hope that helps you. Plan your trip well, so you'll have a great time rolling around. Bon voyage!

Blissful night and day on Cabalitian

Experience paradise on this island

I didn’t experience rest right after graduation. In fact, a few days before the last of my college life, I began working and practicing my craft.

And since my schedule at my job was hectic as that was the campaign period for the 2013 midterm elections when we had to do a series of coverage, I needed a stress buster.

I was really hopeful I could get that perfect relief from the hustle and bustle the election season ensued. So, when it came, I didn’t have second thoughts even though it meant spending a part of my first salary. (Well, I’ve been known to be a stingy person.)

Cabalitian getaway

Over a year ago, my friends went to a beautiful island in Sual. The trip was a few days after the end of my third year in college. I failed to join them because my budget was scarce that time. When we met with one another again in a get together, they euphorically shared the experience on the marvellous island and how much they enjoyed their getaway. I felt envious and wished that one day, I would get the chance to be captured in wonder and be amazed with the place.

LEAVING THE ISLAND Boats line up the shore, waiting for guests leaving the island. You will, however, find yourself hesitant to leave because of Cabalitian’s natural beauty.

Exploring Anda by island hopping

Out of all the beaches I’ve been to in Pangasinan, Tondol White Sand Beach is so far the most fascinating. Its shallow water is a feature hard to miss. 

Delivering my spiel on the shore.

Collaboration starts with GBG Pangasinan inaugural meet up

Map and hop with us!

Connect. Inform. Inspire.

These are the three guiding principles on which Google Business Groups (GBG) all over the world are founded. This is a living proof that even in the age of digital technology where everything seems to be impersonal and fast paced, many aim to use the web to connect with others to achieve a unified success.

Exploring Anda

Last week was another chance for me to travel and explore another place, this time, a beach in Anda, an island town in the western most part of Pangasinan.

Tondol White Sand Beach exudes beauty invigorating to the eyes and inviting to the soul which searches for a refreshing kind of adventure. We also did island hopping, visiting three islands away from Tondol beach. This and a lot more adventures will be featured on Talk TV Global's Traveldotcom this month, so watch for its next episode.

Pannacalan Island, one of the three islands we visited, boasts of this hut which changes location depending on the height of the tides.

More of my adventures on my next blog post and Traveldotcom's episode.

Shop, save and relieve stress

Three Day Sale, Three Way Save

What do you usually do to relieve yourself from stress caused by school work or your job? Do you spend the whole day at home, snuggle in bed and do a movie marathon? Or, you just relax and sleep to gain energy for another week of stress?

Well, this week, we might not do any of those things because something else will surely be a stress buster and a welcome break for our tired mind.

According to an article posted on Business News Daily in June 2012, a research had concluded that “retail therapy” was a mechanism for people to cope with stress, a reliever similar to stress eating. Retail therapy is done by going out and heading to a mall or your favorite store to buy things for yourself. In other words, shop to relieve stress.

It is, however, more grueling if our budget is scarce. But, worry not because the biggest mall chain in the country has made an effort to help us with that.

On Oct. 18, 19 and 20, SM City Baguio will conduct a “Three-Day Sale, Three-Way Save” promo where in 50 percent will be cut off the price of great selections. But, the excitement and stress relief does not stop there.

On the first day of the three-day sale, an additional 10 percent off the price of the chosen item will be offered on top of the existing discount from 9 am to 11 am. This promo, however, is exclusive to SM Advantage Card holders only.

Moreover, a 5 percent rebate will be offered for every P5,000 single receipt purchase using a BDO Credit Card.

Lastly, we can get a P100-coupon for every P2,000 single receipt purchase on Oct. 19 and 20.

But wait, there’s more! Every customer will also be entitled to an entry to a raffle draw where we can win an Internet TV!

What is more exciting is that after shopping, you can also take a tour around the city and go sightseeing amidst its cool temperature and enjoy everything it has to offer.

So, let’s mark our calendars and avail of this special offer from SM City Baguio where we can savor the fun and enjoy the excitement. Have a happy leisure time, guys!

A day on the sea

As part of the modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the government acquired two warships for the Philippine Navy from the US Coast Guard--BRP Gregorio del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz.

During this year's celebration of Pistay Dayat, PF15 or BRP Gregorio del Pilar docked on Lingayen Gulf with the Philippine Navy opening the ship to Pangasinenses from April 28 to May 2. Their curiosity and excitement could be felt as they waited for their turn on the motorboat that will take them to the ship's location anchored at 3 nautical miles from the shore.

BRP Gregorio del Pilar (PF15)

And being a broadcast journalist, doing a report on this special event required hopping into the ship and having a tour inside. My adventurous side entered the scene and I found myself feeling excited about this first time experience.

Coming from the heart

Being the capital town of Pangasinan, Lingayen is tagged as the heart of the province. It boasts of the best architectural structure in the Philippines—the Capitol Building—and its significant part in the country’s history.

On the upcoming episode of Talk TV Global’s Traveldotcom, I will feature this town, exploring every corner of the capitol compound and other attractions as well as the ever famous bagoong (fish sauce) which I previously discussed.

While editing is ongoing, delve into this sneak peek.

Posing at the back of the Capitol Bldg.

Something fishy

Pangasinan, particularly Lingayen, is very famous for its trademark product--bagoong (fish sauce). For health conscious individuals (and those who despise its smell), bagoong should never be on their table, but for Pangasinenses, this is a staple in every meal that can be a perfect match for its salty taste.

So, how is this very famous sauce that every Pangasinense is craving for being produced? That's what I intended to discover as I featured the product on Talk TV Global's Traveldotcom.

Bringing a cameraman (Kuya Rom) and our brand manager (Reg Agsalon) with me, I visited JB Bernal Bagoong's plant and asked the owner and manager, Daniel Jun Bernal, to discuss with me and my team the process of bagoong making.

This is what greets us as we enter the factory. It's clean and doesn't exhibit any sign of grossness. The smell? The bagoong scent is present of course, but it's not a stench that you will surely hate. As Sir Jun puts it, you can smell the fish sauce's "aroma."

Preparing for the taping. That's Reg Agsalon, Talk TV Global's brand manager, on the laptop and Kuya Rom, our videographer/editor

Experiencing Albay

Upon stepping down from the plane, we grabbed the opportunity to have our pictures taken with the Mayon Volcano in the background.

We weren’t able to take many pictures, though, when the guard shooed us away already. We then proceeded to the arrival area and looked for our service. A van from The Oriental Hotel Legazpi, the venue of the conference, stood waiting for us. We hopped in and off we went to the hotel.