Travels Baler On A Budget 2:44 AM Baler On A Budget Want to explore Baler, but on a budget? That's possible. Baler has become a popular vacation destination in the Philippines. It is famous for its waves which attract experienced surfers and those who want to learn how to surf, largest Balete tree in Asia, ice-cold fresh clear waterfalls, and other postcard worthy and historical places. Here's how we explored Baler on a budget: How To Get There: Travel time from Manila to Baler is about six to seven hours. We took the Genesis Bus from Cubao Terminal at around 2:30 am. We were told that that was the last direct trip (Manila to Baler) for the day. No reservation required, so I advise you to come early if you want to arrive early in Baler without the hassle. (Click on individual photos to view in full size) we passed this breathtaking view along the road Tour Package: We were lucky that the trike driver we hired from the terminal to Secret Spot Sabang Beach was an accredited tourist guide as well. He's ardent and he knows where to go and what to do best when in Baler. He took care of our itinerary. His name is Kuya Christian and you may contact him at 09066820356. We paid 800Php for the whole day trip visiting different places. Accomodation: We stayed at the Secret Spot in Sabang Beach. We pitched tents and paid 200Php each for a night. For reservations, you may contact them at +63 928 453 1777. Secret Spot Food: We had our lunch at the Rolling Store; plenty of viands to choose from at affordable prices. It's one trike ride from Sabang Beach and just beside Baler Museum. Tour: 1. Baler Museum Our first stop after lunch was in Baler Museum. No entrance fee, only donation. You also need to register at the entrance. most of the displays at the museum are props from the award winning movie Baler Team Baler at the Museum 2. Ermita Hill and White Cross We climbed 275 steps at the Ermita Hill to get to the White Cross at the top. It was tiring, and almost noon time so we had to endure the scorching heat of the sun. The view at the left side of the hill was breath taking though and seeing the big cross up close was rewarding (at least for Catholics like us). On December 27, 1735, Baler was hit by a tidal wave and the Ermita Hill is where the locals escaped for safety 3. Diguisit Falls One of the four falls in Baler that's worth visiting is the Diguisit Falls. It is located along the highway facing the beautiful Diguisit Beach. The water was cool and fresh. A few people were bathing at the topmost falls when we arrived. It is a small falls, and the way up is steep, rocky and muddy. Lucky we have a tour guide and boys in the group that helped us get to the top and back down without falling. Diguisit Falls is at Barangay Zabali, Baler. The way to the top is rocky, muddy, slippery, but worth the short trek. 4. Diguisit Beach Facing Diguisit Falls is the Diguisit Beach. There is an entrance fee of 20Php. The cottages were full when we arrived, which was fine because we only went there for pictures and to see the place. There were rock formations. Since it was low tide when we went there, we were able to take pictures on the rocks. We even got the chance to stand on corals and see a variety of fish swimming nearby. happy kids a jump shot is required here ^_^ 5. Doña Aurora Quezon’s House Doña Aurora Quezon is the wife of the first president of the Republic of the Philippines. We loved her native and simple yet elegant house. I especially loved her library/study. It was a little humid outside but because her house is made of wood, bamboo and Nipa, it was cool inside. Doña Aurora Quezon's house is just across Baler Church. the 1st Presidential Car 4. Balete Tree The huge Balete tree in Baler is not your ordinary Balete tree. It is the largest Balete tree in Asia and the second largest Balete tree in the world. The enchanting Balete tree is in Barangay Quirino. this is inside the tree 5. Mother Falls Ditumabo Falls or Mother Falls is a must see when in Baler. True to its name, Mother Falls is around 140 feet high amidst After about 40 minutes of trekking, walking on and climbing slippery rocks, passing through rivers, seeing the Mother Falls even from afar is rewarding. You wont mind your sore muscles and fatigue anymore. The water was literally ice cold! Since it is around 4pm when we started the trek, a looooot of people were already at the site when we arrived. Still, we got to enjoy our time there. So worth it! this is what you'll see just before the Mother Falls the glorious Mother Falls left us in awe the first time we saw it 7. Surf! Surf! Surf! On our second day, we went surfing in Sabang Beach! I was hesitant at first. I'm not sporty, and I don't like trying new things. Watching surfers and beginners riding the waves though, I thought it's now or never. Plus, the waves weren't that intimidating that day. Perfect for beginners like us! The best time to go surfing according to the locals is from September to February. The waves are much bigger then. One on one surfing lesson is 350Php for one hour. Since we were three, they gave us a discount so we paid 300Php each. We were lucky to have eager, knowledgeable, enthusiastic and patient instructors. Ian was my instructor and he was beaming when I was able to stand (on my 3rd attempt) and when I was able to do the "walling", which at first I had no idea I was already doing. He also taught me how to paddle, how to surf without an instructor pushing you (although I didn't try doing it on my own yet), and he even explained to me every part of the surf board and it's functions before we started. It was an amazing experience. And addicting, too! You'd want to do it again and again. I don't have a sense of balance, honestly speaking. I never learned how to ride a bicycle. So, this is an accomplishment for me. Another item in my "New things to try" to-do list this year added. our instructor showing us the how-to's trying not to lose my new found balance posing proudly. feeling pros! haha 8. Baler Church We had to go back to Baler Church the following day. We were late for the mass, so we just spent some quiet moment there. Baler Church is just across Doña Aurora Quezon’s House. It is actually walking distance from the Baler Museum. It is historical and famous for the Siege of Baler. After Spain sold the Philippines to America, a group of Spanish soldiers still continued with their battle and occupied Baler Church for almost a year before they surrendered. Eats!!! 1. Gerry Shan's Place Aside from the Rolling Store which we frequent for its affordable lutong bahay food, I recommend Gerry Shan's eat all you can. For 185Php only, you get to enjoy a variety of viands, fruits, and soups and drinks. 2. Alfonso's Pizza Just across Gerry Shan's is Alfonso's Pizza. Tastes like homemade pizza at a reasonable price. 3. Surfer's Grill Located in Sabang Beach, facing the sea, the cute red Beetle outside where they grill the food is an attraction. People who pass by stop for a picture. Nothing special with the food, but it's palatable enough and it's reasonably priced. 4. Hungry Surfer The Hungry Surfer is just a few steps away from Surfer's Grill. Although I will not recommend the place for the service (very lousy!) and onion rings (too thick flour coating), I'd recommend their mojos. It rivals that of Shakey's. If you want to travel, see not just one tourist attraction and experience something new, e.g. surfing, Baler is the place to go to. If you are a budget traveler, Baler is the perfect destination. See more Baler photos on Baler Adventures. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Travels Exploring Fortune Island 11:15 PM We went to Fortune Island (read more about the island here); an hour and a half away from Nasugbu, Batangas by boat. There were 16 of us. When we came to the island, I never regretted my decision of going. The scenery was stunning; bluish-green clear water, white sand, and the ruins, which added to the appeal of the place. Above the cliff at the far side of the island are columns, which resemble that in Parthenon Greece and some ruined statues. There were foreigners who were cliff-diving at the other end. Amazing what nature can make you feel. I felt totally alive just being there, I felt so relaxed lying by the shore. It was an even unreal experience just sitting there with the moon illuminating the night, witnessing it rise above, quietly sitting on the sand with a bunch of people talking/laughing behind me, and some discussing about photography. It’s like basking in God’s inexplicable love. The first on my agenda was to take pictures (of course!), and so I took lots and lots of it. Or at least before my phone died on me. (Click individual image to view in full size) we arrived around noon, but the scorching heat of the sun never bothered us my friend who invited me replica of the Spanish warship inside the shipwreck the water was so inviting we didn't bother changing and went straight for a swim...and pictures of course #morethingstotry and #moreplacestosee for 2014...checked! Photos from my phone. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Music Music: Beautiful (Abby Asistio) 3:03 AM The song Beautiful by Abby Asistio is heart-warming and encouraging. Abby Asistio is a singer, songwriter and tv host who has been suffering from alopecia since she was four. Her battle is an inspiration to those who have very low self-esteem and are losing hope. Listen and remember how valuable and beautiful you are. #TheBeautifulProject Beautiful Abby Asistio La la la la la la la la La la la la la la la la Smile little girl, you're beautiful. Smile little girl, you are loved. When you're in doubt, afraid, downcast All you gotta do is look up to The One Who's up above He's saying you are Beautiful, you are beautiful You're beautiful just as you are Beautiful, you are beautiful Show the world who you are Shine your light You're a star La la la la la la la la la Believe in your heart you are meant for greater things Believe in your heart you can go far Yes, you will go far When darkness creeps in Release the courage deep within We're made much stronger by our scars Remember you are Beautiful, you are beautiful You're beautiful just as you are You're Beautiful, you are beautiful Show the world who you are Shine your light Awaken your soul Let the light shine through Because true beauty lies inside of you Beautiful, you are beautiful You're beautiful just as you are Beautiful, you are, you're beautiful Show the world who you are Shine your light You're a star (La la la la la la la la) Just as you are (La la la la la la la la) Shining bright (La la la la la la la la) You're beautiful (La la la la la la la la) Yes you are (La la la la la la la la) You're beautiful (La la la la la la la la) Beautiful Beautiful Beautiful Beautiful Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Travels Fortune Island, Batangas: The Columns, Parthenon Greece Of The Philippines 1:28 AM Fortune Island, Batangas: The Columns, Parthenon Greece Of The Philippines About Fortune Island, Batangas Fortune Island is an hour and a half boat ride from Nasugbu, Batangas. Fortune Island used to be a luxury resort owned by former governor of Batangas José Antonio Leviste. It’s been abandoned, and although it is still private property, the place is not maintained nor developed. There's a spot for cliff-diving The unique view of the ruins against the beautiful beach is a great spot for photo shoots. Aside from the clear water, rich marine life, white sand, scattered with corals and shells, the columns which pretty much resembles that in Parthenon Greece is a must-see. Our Fortune Island Experience: Travelers who wish to stay overnight in Fortune Island camp out; they pitch tents or stay in what’s left of the ruined buildings. We stayed in the farthest one which is large enough for our group (16 pax). I was informed that it was former Mayor Leviste and Sen. Loren Legarda’s vacation house. In front of our “shelter” is a ruined replica of a Spanish warship that sank off the island. (Photo on the right: My friend reading the brief history of the island.) Traveling by group (our experience - 2 days/1 night) For a group of 16, we spent Php 1,661/pax. That covered: Van from Manila to Batangas and vice versa (2 hours travel time) Boat ride from Nasugbu to Fortune Island and vice versa (I was told renting a boat costs Php 9,000.00, so going in large groups is advisable) Food for 2days/1night trip Clean water for drinking and washing Entrance to the island (350 Php/pax for day trip, 400 Php/pax for overnight) I was lucky to be part of a group of experienced travelers/backpackers. They knew what to bring, what to do, and they’re pretty organized. You can find groups of backpackers on Facebook. There's no electricity nor running and potable water available in the island, so you need to bring those too. Must bring in Fortune Island, Batangas: 1. tent, sleeping bags 2. flashlight or emergency light and extra batteries 3. mosquito/bug repellent 4. swim wear, number clothes depending on your length of stay 5. water for drinking 6. water for washing or rinsing 7. lots and lots of food (there are no convenient stores in the island) 8. sunblock 9. goggles/snorkeling gears 10. toiletries 11. towel 12. first aid kit 13. cooking and eating utensils (you have to bring all the things you need for your cooking. i.e. charcoal for grilling, portable stove, butane, etc) 14. powerbank for your gadgets 15. cameras (you would want to document your stay there) Fortune Island, Batangas on camera (even more breathtaking when you're actually there): I've posted more Fortune Island photos here. All photos are from my phone. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Life Lessons Cliché Life Lessons You Already Know, But Will Re-Learn In the Corporate World 1:01 AM Posted on Thought Catalog: Life is a jungle. The corporate world is a jungle. You’ll find all kinds of species here (people from different places, from different age groups, different sexual orientation, different religion and culture, different background, etc.). You’ll sometimes feel lost in the middle of nowhere, and don’t know which direction to go (too many things to do in a short period of time, too many opportunities and choices, or maybe too little?). You sometimes lose track of time (day isn’t so much different from night, is it?). Sometimes it's really quiet and calm, most of the time it's chaotic. You’ll never know what’s waiting for you or what's going to happen next. It’s not how much you earn, it’s how much you save. You will encounter this line in almost every financial book there is. Financial mentors, investors, and people who made it big in the business world believe that no matter how much you earn, if you don’t have financial literacy, if you’ve got the wrong mentality, and if you spend more than you earn, you will always end up broke and in debt. If you can't be responsible with a small amount, how can you be entrusted with larger ones? Life is not always fair. An enigma that has always baffled me. No matter how much you try to be kind, considerate, patient, understanding, and respectful, there will always be someone who will treat you the opposite way. You did nothing to deserve such treatment, but you receive it anyway. When you’re in this situation, it is best to remember that “hurt people hurt people”. It’s not your battle, but their battle with themselves. Be the better person, and however tempting it is to give them a dose of their own medicine, it is always wise to walk out and walk away. Reminds me of this quote I saw: “Be kind for everyone’s fighting a hard battle. Be kinder still, for not everyone is winning”. Read the complete list here.
