Thank You, 2013

I wrote this because I can’t sleep. God knows how I tried every single way to make myself comfortable tonight. Today is the last day of the year 2013, 3:45AM.

They say 13 is a not so lucky number. Time is fleeting. And as I flip the pages of my personal journal, I can say that this year passed by leaving an indelible mark in my life. Nope. Not all of them are unlucky. In fact, I didn't believe in luck at all. At least before this year came. If I could sum up my 2013, it was a roller-coaster ride with a two second pause at the hundred eightieth degree of the loop.

No, this is not a recap of any travel escapades I had from January to December. Yes, I still had a lot of those. But for this year, since my life stumbled upon many significant challenges, I would rather muse over the things I learned the most. I had a lot of should-have’s and could-have-been’s I never thought I will think of. Nonetheless, it was a heck of a blissful ride.

One Facebook status says it all, “Hindi Ka nagkulang, Lord.” I knew then that my life would not be the same again. I knew it was not the job I wanted to keep. I knew too that I will eventually be living the life I am destined to have. Little did I now that in the middle of chaos, there was an organized scheme where God wanted me to go.

2013 was difficult. For some reason, I didn't see it that way until now that I remember how things unfolded. I only felt the hard part on the earlier months. Later on, all I can sense was a different kind of peace, something I have never felt before. I can compare it to the dreamlike serenity I encountered in Pangubatan, Samal Island in August. And right now, as I write in this small apartment, I feel that everything is back to normal, only this time, less lethargic.

It was more than the outdoor gear business which I have longed to launched. It was more than that beach conversation with my best buddy in March. It was more than knowing my capacity to stretch out my heart to the point of discovering the formerly unknown areas. It was more than being health conscious and staying fit. It was more than a new pet. This time, every travel of the heart is noteworthy. Every single word is well-thought. Every single action is carefully decided.

True enough, hindi Ka nagkulang, Lord. In fact, you added some more that my cup is brimming with blessings. You turned my weeping into dancing and filled me with great joy. After all the things I have been through, I cannot thank You enough for keeping me safe in your arms. I cannot think of any place, any darkness here on Earth where I can turn away from that kind of love. Now, as I change my calendar, I will remember 2013 with all humility and gratefulness.

The Relaxing Cascades of Hagimit Falls

Looking for a natural hydrotherapy to revel in? Give Hagimit Falls a try and you'll surely come back for several visits. This hidden water paradise is one of the must see places when you travel Samal Island. Hagimit Falls is nestled in Peñaplata, the island garden's center. 

The cascades of waterfalls is surely a relaxing view to behold. Not only that, you can actually choose where to swim among the natural swimming pools. The unblemished rock formations serve as elegant fences to the river. Towering trees and varieties of vegetation beside the stream add up to the forest ambiance, making you feel like you have entered an entirely different place from those bedtime stories. Before taking a dip, I suggest you walk the stream for you to see the other smaller falls.

What to expect?

Cold and refreshing bath
As I mentioned, you can choose among the different natural pools. And if you're not planning to get drenched and just visit, you're missing the biggest thing here. Yes, the water is cold but you'll surely get the hang of it once you have overcome the first dipping.

Big rocks
Yes there are deep parts but since the rocks are big enough, you don't have to worry about getting drowned. Swimming is not a requirement for you to enjoy the cold water. Just don't dive. They do not allow it there. You might know how to flutter across the pools but you must also consider the big rocks you might bump into. Either you use them for your safety or the other way around.

Tips!

History
Hagimit Falls has a very rich history. Just before you get to finish descending the stairway leading to this small paradise (right after entering the gate), look to your right. There is an account retelling a beautiful story about this place.

Quick Visit
If you're not planning to stay long and you just want to have a real quick bath, you may leave your bag anywhere near the pool and they will not charge you for anything - except the entrance fee of course. People here are very nice. If you're traveling solo, you don't have to worry about asking anyone to take your picture nor someone stealing your stuff.


How to get to Hagimit Falls:

From Davao City, take the Island City Express at Magsaysay Park (Route 6 jeep from the Davao city proper) going to Samal Island. Get off to Peñaplata and ride a motorcycle (habal-habal) to Hagimit Falls for P20.00. It is just around two kilometers away from the capital district.

You can also bring a private car. They have a parking space outside the gate. 

Rates:
(As of September 2013)

Environmental Fee
P5.00

Entrance Fee
P40.00

Tables with Chairs
P150.00 - P300.00

Open Cottage
P500.00

Close Cottage
P1,000.00


Where on Earth is Hagimit Falls?


View Larger Map

Check out other places near Hagimit Falls!

Island Garden Resort

Island Garden Resort: The Sweetest Escape

It is my third time in Davao City and also my third time in IGaCoS. For some reason, this paradise island never fails to surprise me with each visit. Unexpected sceneries in every part of this island garden city always leave awe in my face and memories of wonder to remember forever.

You might have felt the fine sands of Boracay under your feet or seen the tearjerker beauty of Palawan but you are nonetheless left with perfect amazement after you visit this part of southern Philippines.

Located in Pangubatan, Samal Island, the travel from Davao City was indeed a long and bumpy ride to take. But let me tell you this: It is all worth it. After all, it was an unforgettable adventure when you ride the motorcycle (Habal-habal). Nonetheless, you can also opt  for the easier way. Check the details below for more details.


What to expect?

Pristine waters
No, the sand is not consistently as fine as what you might have seen from other parts of the country but since this resort is lone in the district, expect no blot of any impurities on its waters. Swim towards the floating cottage few meters away from the beach. No, don't take the boat! Just wear the available gears for rent and see the corals and sea rocks beneath as the school of fishes keep you in good company as you flutter your feet.

Best Staff
Filipinos may be known for the warmest hospitality they offer to guests. But here, you are not just a visitor. You will definitely feel that you are a part of the family during your stay. More than the sweet smiles that will welcome you at the gate, it is the sincere friendliness which compliments the peaceful place that will make you want to stay forever.

Peacefulness
If you're looking for a party venue, sorry folks, they don't allow it here. Yes they sell liquor but they won't allow you to turn the radio on and dance the night away. They maintain the noiselessness in the area which makes it even more attractive for those who really want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city life. So for the most serene getaway you will ever experience, let the cadence of the waves sing you a lullaby as you watch the burning bonfire in front of the beach or simply stare at the clear skies at night.

Tips!

Turtle Hatchlings
Contact the resort or visit their Facebook Page to know when the turtle eggs will hatch. It was such an incredible event to witness which happens once in a blue moon.

Lemon Chicken
Try this and make sure you have 1-3 people with you to share it with. It's the best food to comfort you after the long ride in the mountains.

Vanishing Lagoon
Walk towards the 'Mushroom Island' and check out a lagoon which you can only see when the tide is low.

How to get to Island Garden Resort:

Rough Ride Adventure
From Davao City, take the Island City Express at Magsaysay Park (Route 6 jeep from the Davao city proper) going to Samal Island. Get off to Kaputian proper and ride a motorcycle (habal-habal) to the resort for P50.00 each.

Alternately, if you want to explore the island city center (Hagimit Falls, Maxima Aqua, Fernandez Resort, etc.), you can get off in Peñaplata proper and take the habal-habal for P200-P250 per motorcycle. You can also get off to Babak proper if you want to visit the Monfort Bat Cave and take the habal-habal. Just negotiate with the rider. It is not supposed to be more than P300.

I highly suggest you choose a heavy duty motorcycle because the way to Pangubatan is steep and when you're lucky, slippery.

Other public transport options:
You can have a shuttle service arranged at P3,000 per 24 hours from Davao to the resort and vice versa. The rate includes the rental of the car with the fuel and the driver free. However, the guest will have to pay for the barge fee and the passenger's fees to and from the resort.

A motor launch is also available from Sta. Ana Wharf to Kaputian wharf. This is around P60.00 and travel time of about an hour or so. Just take note that the boat will have to wait for more passengers before it takes off.

Davao Watertaxi
If you have the budget, you can ask for a quotation from Davao Watertaxi. You can have them pick you up from Davao City and drop you to any point of Samal shores.













Rates:
(As of September 2013)

Dormitory
P350.00

Tree House
P950.00

Cottage
P1,181.60

Airconditioned Room with Bathroom
P3,042.00

Table with umbrella
P150.00

Snorkeling Gear Rental
P100.00

Life Vest Rental
P25.00

Boat Rental
P200.00

Food
P100-P300

These rates are subject to change without prior notice. You may call their booking office at Tel. No. (082) 284-0168 or Globe Mobile No. 0906-2206448. You can also make your online booking through Agoda.



Where on Earth is Island Garden Resort?



View Larger Map

Check out other places near Island Garden Resort!

Hagimit Falls

When does Christmas Season officially end?

No not yet! Don't take down your Christmas tree and parols just yet. Not even on the Solemnity of the Epiphany or traditionally called Three Kings which we are celebrating today.

Photo credits to Cypress Dublin

Christmas Season starts on Misa de Gallo or the Evening Mass before Christmas and ends on the Sunday of the Lord's Baptism. On Monday after the Solemnity of Baptism, we go back to the Ordinary Time. In some special cases though, the Solemnity of Baptism falls on a Monday. Hence, we end Christmas season on a Monday as well. But of course, this is based on the Christian Liturgical Calendar.

This post is just to inform servants and fellow Catholics that singing Christmas songs and using your church's fancy siryales and thurible sets are encouraged until Sunday. The Nativity sets are still supposed to be seen after today.

In a secular point of view tough, we may take down our Christmas decorations as the tradition suggests. Here in the Philippines, we traditionally keep the decors after Epiphany Sunday. In some countries, they do it on the Sunday of the Lord's Presentation, the 40th day of Christmas as they call it. Whichever day we prefer, it is not a bad thing to conform with the  commercialized celebrations. But it is always a good thing to follow the correct one and consider its meaning and significance in the story of our salvation.