Maldives on a Budget

Maldives on a budget? You got to be kidding me! It is a prime destination which is commonly associated with Hollywood celebrities and members of the royal families. Yet, believe it or not, it is possible now. Budget tourism in the Maldives has just been born and it is certainly the perfect time to go there. Although the word "budget" is a relative thing, there are definitely cheaper ways to visit this paradise without robbing the bank. Read on and we’ll blow all the misconceptions about one of the most expensive tropical places in the world.

Quick Facts

Time:	GMT+5hrs
Capital City:	Male’
Total islands:	1,190
Inhabited islands:	200
Resort islands:	105
Population:	Approx. 350,000
Lingua Franca:	Dhivehi
Major industries:	Tourism and Fishing
Currency:	Rufiyaa (USD 1 = MRF 15.50)
Electricity:	240 AC
Government Working hours:	8:00 am to 3:00 pm Sunday to Thursday
Bank hours:	9:00am to 03:00 pm Sunday to Thursdays
Official State Religion:	Islam

• 99% of the Maldives is water.
•  It has the lowest natural highest point in the world with 2.4 meters above sea level. By average of 1.5 meters, it is considered as the lowest country.
• Bikinis can only be worn in private island resorts. The country has a deeply rooted Islamic culture that calls for casual but modest clothing in public places – even in the beaches.
• The word atoll came from the Dhivehi word atholhu to refer to ring-like coral island surrounding a lagoon. It is the English word taken from the language.  
• It is the smallest country in Asia and the smallest Muslim country in the world.

Getting There

There are no direct flights from the Philippines to the Maldives. The next best thing to do is to book a flight to Singapore, Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur and buy another ticket heading to Male. The cheapest suggestion could be MNL-KUL for approximately PHP9,000.00 (or less) round trip through AirAsia and MYR2,600.00 (PHP35,000.00) for KUL-MLE through Malaysian Airlines. This is the regular fare and you can always check low-cost carriers for cheaper flights. Overseas Filipino Workers in the Maldives say that the usual airfare they allot for a round trip ticket averages from USD800-USD1000 all in. Yes, the hardest part is getting there but once you’re done with saving for this one, it is easier to make the budget for everything else. As for me, I was lucky enough to get a hint from co-travelers about the last AirAsiaX flights in February of 2014 so I didn’t spend this much.

Going Around

Dhoni – Remember this word and you’ll be a certified Maldivian traveler in no time. It is easy to commute there since you’ll probably be going to one of the very few inhabited islands of the archipelago. That is, if you are not checking in to the luxurious resorts and hotels from which the island nation is more famous for. Traveling by Dhoni is easy and cheap. Just make sure you get there on time since most trips are on schedule basis.

Seaplane – If you have the dough, this is the fastest and the perhaps the most exciting way of visiting the islands. The cheapest deals start from USD100 depending on the distance and stopovers.

Walk – All the islands in the Maldives have a walking distance area. We stayed in Maafushi which I was able to stroll in fifteen minutes. Male City can be explored in 30 minutes by foot.

Cab – When you’re in Male Island, you can get a cab going to anywhere the 5.8 kilometer square city. In the short travel, just pay MRF25.00 (PHP375.00 as of February 2014) to the driver and any amount beyond that is a rip off.

Accommodation

The rumors are true. Maldivian accommodation is no joke. Some hotels charge as much as $2,000.00 per night. $200.00 - $500.00 is pretty much a reasonable price for mid-range. Still a bit pricey for your pocket? Try the guest houses in Maafushi Island and you can get as low as $75 per night and even less than that if you are being referred by someone. Try Rehendhi Inn andRestaurant. It’s the most affordable hotel in the island. And affordable doesn’t mean compromised service. Read my separate blog about it.

Food

Continental or Maldivian breakfast? Choose one of these and you’ll be starting the day right. Though honestly, after the seafood, noodle or rice meal, there is nothing more to Maldivian cuisine. Or am I missing something? The fact of being a Filipino perhaps gave me some biases on other cultures when it comes to satisfying the palate. Price: 5 USD is the usual.

Nightlife

Before going to the Maldives, know first that it is an Islamic country with a very conservative government and tradition. If you want to socialize with other travelers, go to private resorts. Maldives is all about nature and relaxation. Its very laidback mood will give you a sense of peace. So if you are into loud music and partying, this is not the place to go.

More detailed posts soon...

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?


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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?



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Check out other places near Island Garden Resort!

Hagimit Falls

Where have I been in the last twelve months?

It has been a year of frenzied travels. Going out of my comfort zone has never been so fulfilling as how 2012 has been. Here’s a last look to my 12 months of travel and escapades.

January: Palaui Island and Tuguegarao City Trip

Nothing beats the first time. Trying to travel with other Couchsurfers for the first time was indeed something to remember for life. I had a great time meeting new friends and sharing with them some food, stories, games and thoughts ranging from the trivial to the profound ones. Also, I discovered how beautiful Cagayan Valley is. Adorned with hundreds of amazing caves, the Cave Capital of the Philippines is indeed gifted with natural wonders the world has to see.

February: First Solo Backpacking: The Cebu, Davao and Cagayan De Oro Route

This could be the most exhilarating of all my trips this year. Being alone for 10 days, exploring the places I have never been to before, and meeting a lot of generous people who accommodated me, helped me in going around the provinces and gave me food, lots of laughs and memories was priceless. Cebu has been my dream destination ever since in grade school when Philippine History was a favorite subject of mine. Nonetheless, Davao City has made my Ash Wednesday birthday an introspective one. And I enjoyed every single thing about the city so I returned for Kadayawan. Cagayan De Oro gave me my first zipline experience and had me reunited with my best choir friends who are now staying in the city for good. As usual, we enjoyed lots and lots and lots of food! I also learned how to make a maki. LoL.


March: Pilgrimage in Lipa, San Jose, Alitagtag, Taal and Tagaytay

My original plan for this month did not push through. Nevertheless, the last minute invitation from my friends in Canlubang was just perfect as the end of the Lenten Season drew near. I joined the annual pilgrimage of the San Jose Parish in Canlubang. More and more pilgrims have been joining each year and I am lucky enough to be with these really cool guys, young and old who were eager to see new churches every year. I have never participated such a long trip to the some of the most significant worship places in history. Not including the mother parish church of Saint Joseph in Canlubang, we have visited 7 churches. The highlight could be climbing the top of the belfry of the largest church in Asia (Yes it's in the Philippines!) built in Taal and also walking along the heritage town of Taal which is in fact teeming with the same Spanish era elegance as Vigan. The other churches were The Archdiocese of Lipa Cathedral, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Shrine, Invencion Dela Sta Cruz Parish Church, the old San Jose Parish Church, The Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay and the SVD Church.

April: Churches, Churches and More Churches!

To continue the pilgrimage in a more personal way, I picked my backpack on Holy Wednesday. Along with some friends from Canlubang, I headed off to other towns in Laguna and visited more churches. We have visited Inmaculada Concepcion Parish in Sta Cruz, Our Lady of Guadalupe in Pagsanjan, Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary in Luisiana where we were lucky to witness the Pandan Festival and St. James the Apostle Church in Paete, which boasts itself as the Wood Carving Capital of the Philippines. The highlight of this trip would be the Holy Wednesday Procession of the Holy Images, carved over the years in Paete. My favorite image is the crucified Jesus with its very realistic contour of the human body. During our traditional Visita Iglesia in MRA Parish, I have also visited many churches in Metro Manila. Altogether, they could be summed up to 25 just within the Holy Week including the pilgrimage in March, the Saturday before Palm Sunday.

May: This month was dedicated to Hangad's 20th Anniversary Concert so I did not go out of Manila.

June: One Good Deed for Daraitan

Meeting new friends is always a wonderful experience. But meeting new friends for a good cause is uniquely unforgettable. The good thing about this is that this event is a product of personal endeavor of a group of friends. No, this is not under any NGO or any humanitarian movement. This is an initiative of some mountaineer friends who happened to pass by the town and decided to help. I joined them in looking for sponsors and donations for the kids of Daraitan, as they start the school year. More than being happy to be a part of the cool guys and gals, I am blessed to have the opportunity to share myself to the kids through songs and gift-giving. This kind of event is done once or twice a year. This January, we will have another one. If you want to give donations, feel free to comment and message me here.


July: Palawan and Boracay Baby!

Hitting two places in one month has never been this good. Palawan, a place I always thought of visiting for years has finally become an instant favorite of mine. From the orderly and clean city of Puerto Princesa, to the natural wonders of Honda Bay islands and Puerto Princesa Underground River, you can never go wrong in putting it on the top spot of your bucket list. Boracay? Not on my plan this year but having the chance to fly and stay at a very low cost sounded good. So after four days of arriving from Palawan, I headed to Boracay. One of my favorite spots now is Puka Beach. Don't ask me how I spent 3D3N in the island for only 3,000. Thanks to Couchsurfing and Google! :)

August: Kadayawan!

This is prolly the biggest festival I have attended so far. From graceful street dancers to colorful floats, my first Kadayawan experience had been a blast. Together with 40 plus Couchsurfers, I basked on the fine sand of Samal Island once again, this time, with a guitar and a bunch of jammers around. I have fallen in love with Davao the first time in February. And honestly, I can always come back anytime.

September: Sawasdee Krub!

For my trip abroad this year, it's in the Land of Smiles! And what made it different is the fact that I did not travel alone. My sister and mom enjoyed Bangkok City as much as I do. They liked the food though. I don't. LOL. Nonetheless, shopping, temples, malls and the crowd of all races made up our stay a very unforgettable one. It was indeed a wonderful experience to cross timezone with my family.

October: My Gradeschool Bestfriend's Wedding

This reminds me that I am not getting any younger. Anyway, the wedding was in Rosario, a small yet vibrant town in Batangas. For the first time in many years, I had a night chat with my grade school buddy. The last time I remember staying up late with him was in Boy Scout Camping when we went to ghost hunt instead of sleeping. LOL. I also had the chance to get lost in Lipa City proper the night I traveled alone from Manila. Haha. As always, getting lost makes the experience more enjoyable.

November: Hello Bicolandia!

Naga and Legaspi it was! When Hangad had a show in Naga, I took the chance to stay longer and see Mount Mayon. So I was with my backpack again, roaming Legaspi City alone. To my surprise, Legaspi is a progressive city where urban life and beauty of nature meet. The highlight of this backpacking? Of course a closer look at the famous perfect cone volcano.

December: It's Naga again!

So I realized I liked Naga but never get to walk around that much. For the Christmas vacation, I chose to be alone and did a pilgrimage in the major churches in the city which are amazingly just walking distance from each other. Reflecting on how I want to live my 2013, I found myself resting on the Uragon spirituality. My devotion to the Virgin Mary have actually renewed on that sunny day. The funny thing about this trip is that I am supposed to be with my best bud in Naga or in Daet. He went to Daet a day ahead and it had been raining all week. No one dared to go to the other town so we ended up not seeing each other in Bicol. Nonetheless, my stay in Naga was a refreshing one.

Things To Do in Puerto Princesa City Proper

Having the cleanest city, the locals of Puerto Princesa are indeed more good-natured. So never attempt to throw your trash anywhere nor smoke in public places. Follow traffic rules and be polite and friendly just as them. Here are some of the things you can do in the city proper of the cleanest and greenest city.

Hear Mass at the Cathedral

If you’re a Catholic, you’ll appreciate hearing mass at this big church serving as the home of the Apostolic Vicariate of Palawan. I happened to attend a Sunday mass with a really good homilist. If you’re not a Catholic, you can still say a little prayer in this peaceful worship place. Anyone can also appreciate its beautiful interior.

Remember the war heroes in Plaza Cuartel

Having been told of so many war stories passed on by our grandparents, we might have been used to hearing tales of people being tortured and killed during the Japanese occupation. But this places might break your heart though. This former military base is where 150 American soldiers were burned alive during the Second World War. A historically significant place, Plaza Cuartel is now a landscaped park where you can walk around and see the beautiful view of the bay.

Eat Chow Long at the Public Market

After a long walk, you can take a tricycle going to the public market for P10. Pamper yourself with a hot Chow Long. Add some spice until it perfectly matches your taste. The public market recipe is just enough though for the authentic Palawan Chow Long experience. Pair it with a meat-stuffed French Bread for a heavy merienda. You may also grab some seafood in this market and have it cooked in the hotel.

Bike by the Bay

Just near the public market is a wide and long stretch of the Baywalk facing the beautiful bay. Have your picture taken with the ferries and boats at the background. The time to go here is during sunset and also sunrise. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll see the dolphins prancing on the clean waters. Bike rental is available at good deals.

Walk along Rizal Avenue at Midnight

For me, Puerto Princesa is not only the cleanest and the greenest city in the Philippines but also one of the safest places in the country. Walking along the highway at midnight is such a wonderful thing to do. Pass by all the bars and clubs that are still alive at this time of the night and also drop by Mendoza Park. During daytime, the Palawan Museum located in this park is also a good destination. You will also notice how the public market is very organized without any garbage visible in any corner. This may be a hard thing to say but the night here is the irony of all our Metro Manila phobias. Having been a victim of mugging, I do hope that someday Manila could be this safe. Many food stalls are still open at night so you can grab some more Chow Long again (Sorry it’s my favourite). I suggest you do it during your last night in the city. It’s going to be very memorable. We stayed until almost 2:00 AM and that was the best Puerto Princesa night I had during the whole duration of my stay.

This is just in the city proper. You'll definitely enjoy more of the city itself when you check out other districts where the exciting adventures and enthralling views await. More posts about Puerto Princesa coming shortly.

The Puerto Princesa Nightlife

I was only able to try Gypsy’s and Tiki. Have I stayed longer, I might be trying some more bars along Rizal Avenue. Although as far as the locals say, these two nightlife destinations are the bests in town. True enough, hanging out even on weekdays did not seem less exciting – at least to the perception of visitors like me.

If you’re looking for a cozy place to spend the night after that long day of island hopping in Honda Bay, Gypsy’s Lair Art Café is the right venue to grab some bottles and chill out with the peer. It’s relaxing acoustic live music will never fail to make you comfortable as you share stories with your friends. The bar is actually an art gallery with a very artsy fancy interior. Make good memories during your stay in the city by jamming with the band.

The most well-known bar is of course located at KM 0. Tiki Bar it is. Tourists, Filipinos and foreigners alike, make up the perky crowd. The pumpy bass sounds and the hyperactive drumbeats will surely give you a blast. Should the live band excite you with their Top 40 repertoire, feel free to hit the dance floor. Hitting a bucket of beers and requesting your favourite song to be played can also be the simple way of enjoying the place.

What does Tiki mean by the way? Check out the picture.

How To Get To and Away From Puerto Princesa International Airport

You just need ten pesos (P10.00). Yes you read that right! Once you alight the plane, just walk straight to Rizal Avenue. Don’t mind the tricycles within the airport premises. They charge around P30 to P50. Just walk around 20-30 meters towards the gate and get a tricycle on the road. You’ll know you’re in Rizal Avenue when you see the Rotary Club symbol at the Exit Gate. The tricycle fare is just P10 from the airport to any point in the city proper. By the way, don’t look for taxis. They don’t have any. They actually don’t need it. You’ll find out why when you go around the city.

In Puerto Princesa city proper, Rizal Avenue is the only major road you have to remember. All other major roads are going towards the direction of other districts. Here’s the map for your reference:

Hence, from any point in the city going back to the airport, it will cost you only P10 too!

The Province of Cebu - A Quick Glance of my Three Day Tour

It's Ash Wednesday and my Lent has not started yet. For a quick glimpse on my first three days of backpacking, here are the places I went to. How much have I spent so far? Let me see.

First Day: Cebu City. The highlight? Search for a map. It was like an amazing race when I realized during the 1130AM Sunday mass at the Basilica, that I was making so much haste out of the airport and I forgot to get a map. I almost memorized Colon Street walking to and fro. It was Sunday so the city hall was closed as well as the other shops. I finally got one when I decided to go to a National Bookstore in Ayala Terraces, which is a great place by the way. I also visited The Taoist Temple, ate at Sunburst and went back to downtown to check in. One funny moment was when the jeepney stopped and all the guy passengers had to push it to start again. And what to say when they speak to you in Bisaya? "Tagalog please" And they'll say sorry. :-p

Amount spent for the day: P1441 (including food, cab and jeepney fares, a really nice tourist inn)

More details on this soon.

Second Day: Moalboal. Beer and chips by the beach. This was not originally on my itinerary but someone said it would be great to spend the night there. And it was one of the most wonderful night of my life. So after having my lunch at Larsian in midtown Cebu, I headed south of the province. As some of you know, I love to be alone. I should have come there earlier and rented a snorkeling set for the whole day. But I still had a great time being on the shoreline just before sunset. Through my goggles, I was able to watch really cool marine life since it was low tide and float on the water facing the sky with the seagrasses beneath my body. After the dinner and chatter with the lodge owner and other backpackers who checked in (who are all foreigners by the way), I bought a bottle of pale pilsen and a pack of chips, jumped on a ramp connected to someone else's room facing the beach and enjoyed the high tide a meter just below my feet. Ooh life. Then the room guest arrived after more than an hour or two so I went back to the dorm to take a cozy sleep inside the mosquito net.

Amount spent for the day: P525 (including the bus fare, food, and beer of course)

More details on this soon.

Day Three: Badian. Swimming at Kawasan Falls. While everyone else was still asleep, I left my locker keys at the reception area and headed to Badian, a 30 minute ride from Moalboal. I took the bus because motor guides was charging me P600 and I don't want to ride the motorcycle for 45 minutes in the highway. I went to Kawasan Falls on my own with the help prior googling and hints from other travelers at the lodge. And voila! the magnificent view of nature was in front me! I dared myself to swim at the falls with the help of life vest of course. I had a fantastic experience. That noon, I went back to Cebu City for some pasalubong and ukulele just before my flight to Davao. Another thing I enjoyed that day was my meal before heading to the airport.

Amount spent for the day: P1409.25 (including the food, bus fares, P300 groceries and P625 ukulele with bag)
More details on this soon.


Yes this is not really shoestring yet as some of you may see. But hey! The amount is still practical for a traveler. By the way, I did not include the P200 terminal fee in the airport. I will post all the details after this ten day trip. :)

Few Hours Before My First Solo Backpacking Trip

This is it! My first major solo backpacking adventure starts in a few hours. This will be for ten days and I am very excited to see things expected and unexpected. I will be going to Cebu, Davao, Digos and Cagayan De Oro - all of these were just a part of my dream destinations locally. I think this is the most exciting travel adventure I am doing so far as a solo backpacker.

And yes, I promised myself to travel a lot this year, specially to the local destinations I have not been to. For February, this is the only travel I am doing outside Manila and I'm sure it is going to be amazing. This is also a part of my annual personal soul searching activity during my birthday. This time, it will not only be for a day but for a week and a half. It's that long because that's the load of issues I have to muse over. Just kidding.

But honestly, it is just this year when I realize that I loved traveling alone since I was a child. I remember commuting at the age of eight and going to Olongapo City alone when I was twelve. And until now, that passion for discovering places on my own is still running in my veins.

In the next few days, I will be posting my activities and my expenses. I hope the next blog entries will help you in one of your travels since I am travelling in a shoestring and just like those many Pinoy backpacker bloggers, I also aim to convince and encourage fellow Filipinos to travel the Philippines even with small budget.

This blog is inspired by some of the respected travelers in the Philippines like JourneyingJames.com. Just keep posted on this side for the next entries about this 10-Day Backpacking in CEB-DVO-CDO!

Peñablanca and the Chambers of Callao Caves

Aside from the postcards I frequently see on local bookstores and that one episode in Maalaala Mo Kaya, there is nothing more that I know about Callao Caves. Never have I known that that side-trip from Palaui Island which I suddenly decided to join just on the way back to Sta. Ana was going to be an awe-inspiring one.

Callao Caves is the only well known cave I have gone since the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur. And with all unbiased opinion, I do not understand how other countries can feature such destination when our own country has more breathtaking natural wonders to wow over.

According to the tour guides, Cagayan has over 380 caves with around 70 with registered names. The province has been dubbed by the Department of Tourism as the Caving Capital of the Philippines.

Callao Caves, which got its name from the Kalaw bird or the hornbill, is situated in Peñablanca, Cagayan, around 30 minute travel from Tuguegarao City. It boasts seven unique chambers with impressive features.

The first chamber welcomes you to the magnificent work of nature. Recently on this chamber, they found bones of a man from the early era, much older than the Tabon Man. The second chamber, since it has the most beautiful skylight during daybreak, was converted into a chapel during the time of President Marcos. The third chamber is the darkest but if you try to light the walls with your torch, you are bound to see the marvelous formations of rocks.

The fourth chamber brings you another skylights with more stalactites, stalagmites and columns are visible. The fifth has the biggest chamber hole that it allowed growth of some lichens that made some stalactites green. There's even this formation that resembles three scoops of ice cream in different flavors!

The sixth chamber was a bit slippery. Here, you will see Mufasa's head.

The seventh chamber is where you can see the last skylight by the wall. Good thing the whole cave is well-lighted on some dark parts like the third and seventh chambers.

After the seven chamber tour, we were also very lucky to have a glimpse of the Derek Cave which is about 45 minute hike atop the Callao Cave. They refer to this as a technical cave. A French companion said perhaps it's because you need to have technique to get there. The path was grassy and some parts are stiff. There was a time that we had to hold on to tree roots to climb a two to three meter high rock. Nonetheless, the long journey was worth it. We were able to see a true scientific cave being studied by speleologists. The crystalline walls and the shiny stalactites and stalagmites are proofs of centuries in its making. We were not even allowed to touch the walls and columns to avoid tainting the minerals in the elegant formations. Unlike the Callao Cave, there was no light inside Derek Cave so you need to have a head torch. Here, I have tasted the purest water nature can make, gathered from the stalagmite droplets.

 It was indeed an awe-inspiring moment to see the beauty of nature as we go home. As I told myself over again, I shall be back to Cagayan in the future to do more spelunking. Next time, I hope I will have Andoy or any other kids to guide me. A piece of advice, they are more enjoyable to talk with. I loved listening to the stories of younger tourist guides.