🛌🏿 Come Home to “The Linden Suites” for Your Stay-cation.

RATING : ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Pure Bliss is how I would describe my experience staying in a 4 Star Hotel named “The Linden Suites”. I've stayed in several local hotels like Thunderbird Resorts but Linden Suites is one of the best. I stayed there for 24 hours free sponsored by Linden Suites : Ricjoseph Buenus Aires.
 

A favorite among local and international clients, The Linden Suites offers business travelers and families world-class accommodations away from home. With 168 well-furnished designer rooms and suites, the hotel presents options for guests to enjoy hotel living in a desired functional space. All rooms and suites are equipped with modern conveniences to serve your needs from day until night



Conveniently located in the vibrant city of Pasig, the hotel’s strategic location provides easy access to malls, shops, and other leisure and business spots in the neighborhood. La Nouvelle Image, an aesthetic center dedicated in providing its clientele excellent aesthetic medical services, is found on the 7th floor of the hotel.
 

The hotel's spacious rooms are very suitable for the whole family and friends. There friendly staffs for any additional requests especially if one intends to cook in its fully equipped kitchenette. . Suites with full dining and kitchen facilities are also made available for families and long-staying guests. “Wow sosyal ang kalan nila flat screen” as my friend jokingly said. This was the statement when my friend saw the Induction cooker.

Moreover, its convenient location accommodated my needs wherever possible, providing local information on shopping and dining. Three of the major shopping malls in the country are located within the hotels vicinity, i.e., SM Megamall, Robinsons Galleria, and Shangri-La Plaza. Hobby and recreational centers such as Wack Wack Golf and’ Country Club and City Golf are a few minutes away. For those who want to unwind and enjoy a night in town, entertainment and dining hubs like the Metrowalk and El Pueblo are just meters away. The hotel also presents guests with specialty shops and travel recommendations for a more convenient and satisfying stay.
 

There are bigger and comfortable room and a good value for money that you will exactly looking for that can accommodate a big family. Room is clean and orderly. I never saw a single cockroach or insect inside the room.

The fitness area is my top choice since I am a gym enthusiast. The gym is fully equipped of high tech cycling classes. There are wide arrays of cardio machine and extensive lines of weight equipment that will surely burn you fat and contour your body. Actually, the gym is open from 6AM until 10PM; indeed you need to wear appropriate gym attire.

Their indoor pool is one of my favorite amenities. I never had second thoughts to enjoy the pool because it’s indoor. They also have someone who would look after you and attend to your every need while you’re enjoying their lavish swimming pool. I also saw him get water samples from the pool, probably to test its cleanliness. Jacuzzi (to name a few) gives ultimate relaxation- where I spent longer due to the relaxing heat of the water which is perfect for me since I worked in a stressful environment.



However, you need to wear appropriate for swimming. In my case, I had my swimming trunk and I was ready to swim when the attendant stopped me because my trunk was made up of cotton. Honestly, I was embarrassed that time, since I was ready to swim and everyone were staring at me. So I have to go back to my room and buy another swimming trunk at St Francis Square – Specific cloth made up of polyester like board short or rush guard. I bought cycling for PHP50. So you have to bring that kind of swim wear.
 

Having been to so many hotels makes it a little difficult for me to find what unique quality to highlight in each. Well I especially appreciated the scent that resembles lavender essence. But what I don’t like about the hotel are the elevators – very congested when number of guests are simultaneously using because it is not that large enough especially at the building where I stay.

General

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• Health club
• Restaurant
• Room service (limited hours)
• Breakfast available (surcharge)
• Bar/lounge
• Valet parking
• Multiple large conference rooms
• Multiple small meeting rooms
• Business center
• 24-hour front desk
• Babysitting or childcare
• Elevator/lift
• Dry cleaning/laundry service
• Airport transportation (surcharge)
• Grocery/convenience store
• Wireless Internet access - surcharge
• Laundry facilities
• Total number of rooms - 168
• Luggage storage
• Limo or Town Car service available
• Number of floors - 27
• Free parking
• Number of meeting rooms - 4
• Swimming pool - indoor
• Use of nearby fitness center (complimentary)
• Complimentary newspapers in lobby
• Shopping center shuttle (surcharge)
• Designated smoking areas
• Porter/bellhop
• Area shuttle (surcharge)
• Number of buildings/towers - 2
• Television in lobby
• Internet

Available in all rooms: Free Wi-Fi
Available in some public areas: Wireless Internet access - surcharge
Parking



Free parking, Valet parking

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Room Amenities

• Premium TV channels
• DVD player
• Air conditioning
• Complimentary newspaper
• Phone
• Minibar
• Coffee/tea maker
• Daily housekeeping
• Private bathroom
• Complimentary toiletries
• Hair dryer
• In-room massage available
• In-room childcare (surcharge)
• Iron/ironing board
• In-room safe
• Desk
• Rollaway/extra beds available
• Cribs/infant beds available
• Complimentary bottled water
• Cable TV service
• Free Wi-Fi
• Shower/tub combination
• HBO
• LCD TV
• LCD TV
• Dining

Breakfast is available for a surcharge and served each morning between 6 AM and 10 AM.
Mesclun Restaurant - This restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Room service (during limited hours) is available.
Spa
Facial treatments

The Linden Suites Manila Policies & Fees

Check-in

1. Minimum check-in age is 19
2. Check-in time starts at 2 PM
3. Special check-in instructions:
4. Check-in time for 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom suites is 3:00 PM.
5. Check-out

Check-out time is noon
Payment types

Accepted at this hotel: American Express, JCB International, MasterCard, Visa
General

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on hotel policy.
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.
Fees



The following fees and deposits are charged by the property at time of service, check-in, or check-out.
Breakfast fee: PHP 550 per person (approximately)
Airport shuttle fee: PHP 2350 per vehicle (one way)
Deposit: PHP 2000 per night
Rollaway bed fee: PHP 1500 per night
The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.
Additional Details


This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply). Guests must contact the property with arrival details 24 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation. No pets and no service animals are allowed at this property.

Notes from a Gay-lera virgin.

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

Curiosity is one motivation why people tend to do risky things. As for me, curiosity is one of the reasons why I travel. I always look forward to what exciting things might happen to me. Not too different from a one-year-old baby who is only starting to learn what the world can offer him.

During my first Puerto Galera visit, curiosity is also the reason why I visited the “landmarks”. After all, every time that I check blogs about the place, there are always two places associated with it – “Jurassic Park” and “Rockwell”. So I was very curious about these, definitely.

What about “Jurassic Park”?

“Jurassic Park” is a spot situated in White Beach in Puerto Galera.  It is, wihtout playing with words, where cruising happens. It is located at the extreme end of the beach, at your right side when you are facing the sea. The place is a remote area wherein silence exists.

“Jurassic Park” is actually a sea cliff that has three layers – the gays label it as the Ground floor, Second Level and the Third Level.

Ground Floor is the area at the beach.  In this area, majority of the gays stay since this is the safest part of the area. This is also the right place to find a prospective partner for the night and to maybe bring to the Second Level or Third Level.

Adjacent to the beach area is the Second Level, where only few trees survived.  These trees are the only cover that hide the “extraordinary happenings” in this area.  This is the favorite place of those who prefer quickies because there is a privacy as long as no one will attempt to climb to watch.

The top part of the cliff is where the Third Level is situated.  This is the place for those who really want extreme cruising because it is totally private. You need to be a somewhat good climber, hauling yourself up using the vines and rocks, just to watch what happens above.

Cruising 2012

 This picture became viral online . thanks to the owner

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Obviously, the name “Jurassic Park” is associated with the movie because you have to climb, crawl, et cetera just to reach and experience the safest part of the place, somewhat akin to a scene in the movie.

A veteran cruiser and a friend of mine said: “Sa ibaba, kaya madaming tao diyan, dahil iyan ang lugar kung saan , diyan naghahanap (At the Ground Floor, there are lots of people there because that’s where they try to find prospective partners).”

Due to scandals occurring way back in 2011, it became a widely-discussed place, resulting to the closing of the said spot. The local government assigned barangay police to secure the area so that cruising will not happen anymore.

“Grabe nga, minsan dati, may mga nag-flashlight na mga tanod at nanghuhuli diyan dati (It was bad in the past, when barangay officials arrested people there),” my friend added.

Not that this stopped cruising from happening.  Gays still found ways to do have adventures.

This place was eventually re-opened.

Interestingly, the place is not just for gays, but self-described straight men too.  Actually, straight men visit this place not just to watch, but sometimes to join.  And so, you will not be able to distinguish who is gay, straight or bi.

What about “Rockwell”?

MASUNDAN NGA :Look at
these two men. I smell something fishy. 

“Rockwell” is located at the extreme left side of the White Beach when you are facing the sea. It is another spot for cruising.

“Rockwell” is actually based from the word “batuhan” (rocky place). The spot has huge rock formations that provide the cruisers more private places. Its like owning a cubicle once you find a perfect area. But the place is full of danger because it is too dark and the rocks are slippery due to algae. So I won’t advise you to go there if you are drunk, or even just a bit tipsy.

Incidentally, the “batuhan” area is the entry point going to Tamaraw Beach Resort, where some of the socialites (and social climbing) gays stay.

“Kaunti lang ang tao sa batuhan pero quality ang mga nandoon kaysa sa (There aren’t that many men in Rockwell, but at times they are better than those you find at) ‘Jurassic Park’,” my friend said.

What he recommends doing is hopping from one place to the other.

“Palakad-lakad lang ako sa magkabilang dulo.  Sa sobrang layo ng nilalakad ko, tanggal ang kalasingan ko (I just walk from one end of the beach to the other. Due to the distance, I become sober from walking too long),” he jokingly said.

And yes, police patrolling the area also have a hard time to catch the cruisers due to the large and slippery rocks, so gays can hide here better.

Having shared my firsthand, and first-time exposure to the two famous landmarks of Puerto Gay-lera, please remember to be safe always when there. Be responsible enough. There are NGOs that distribute condoms for free at the beach during peak seasons (aside from giving free HIV antibody test).

So enjoy… with caution.

HIV free Test in Puerto Galera

My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 1
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 2
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 3
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 4
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 5
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 6
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 7
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 8

RAK OF AEGIS - The Re-run - As Everyone’s Tale.

RATING : ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

When your friend invites you to watch a play entitled “Rak of Aegis” (without the awareness of the spelling), you are sure to get excited because you are expecting a local version of the “Rock of Ages”, a 2012 American romantic musical comedy film directed by Adam Shankman. Don’t worry, I know where you’re coming from, I felt the same way. And then you learn the correct spelling of the local show, and so – like me – it is understandable for you to ask: “What about ‘Rak of Aegis’?”

The title in itself is very intriguing (considering its playing with the internationally known musical). And according to Maribel Legarda, the show’s director said, that “Rak of Aegis” began as a jest almost two years ago when Myke Salomon, the musical director, jokingly said to her: “Kung mayroong ‘Rock of Ages’, dapat tayo ‘Rak of Aegis’ (If they have ‘Rock of Ages’, we should have ‘Rak of Aegis’).”

Here are the highlights

“It didn’t take a second before I realized that it was a brilliant idea. Yes indeed, why not create musical around the iconic 90s band whose music cuts across all ages and social status?” Legarda stressed. ‘Twas a great idea because the title is easy to remember – in itself a very effective marketing strategy.

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Rak of Aegis Stressing challenges faced by Filipinos is the main thought of comedy musical “Rak of Aegis”. Particularly, it showcases the resiliency of the inhabitants of a flooded area from a catastrophic typhoon. The story revolves around a talented promodizer named Aileen (Aicelle Santos alternating with Joan Bugcat), who dreams of becoming a YouTube sensation; her family and the other residents who live in a flooded Barangay Venizia (far from being a city of Venice). And then there’s the flood that troubles everyone.

The plot of “Rak of Aegis” is very simple; its message very clear: Love exists even in times of calamities. And yet, at least for me, it managed to be heartbreaking because it reflects the reality of Philippine society. Because of this simplicity, it can easily penetrate the mindset of the audience.

Watch the documentary below courtesy of I-Witness.

“People always hail Pinoys as being resilient like its the sole golden virtue that our people can use to survive; as though we can take any beating with a smile. Call its exasperation, but sometimes I feel corrupt officials tend to use it as an excuse, hailing the Pinoy’s resilience and not to do (anything substantial) after. While it’s true we are resilient, I’d like to go beyond resilience. How about accountability? How about support for local endeavors? How about true public service?” the writer Liza Magtoto said.

Posters and Ads

Singing along with the casts during the show is not allowed, however I couldn’t avoid humming while listening to the lineup of songs mashed-up and used to narrate segments of the show. After all, who doesn’t know the rock band Aegis? The backdrop of the said musical are the songs of Aegis – Halik, Luha, Basang-basa sa Ulan, Christmas Bunos, Munting Pangarap... This play, thus, lifts up the Original Pilipino Music (OPM).

“Appreciation leads to patronage. Patronage leads to progress. And progress creates sustainability. ‘Rak of Aegis’ is an embodiment of what we have to do as Filipinos,” noted Ogie Alcasid, president of Organisasyong Pilipino Mang-aawit.

Pinipilahan sa labas

The collaboration of the artistic staff worked, too, to produce a good production. The lights were visually pleasant, adding drama to the set designed by Mio Infante. To make things more “realistic”, real water is being used and the front row audiences will get slightly drenched. Costumes were simple, effectively showing the existing poverty that plague the once thriving barangay as it’s ravaged by a typhoon and immersed in the flood. Worth noting, during the final part of the play, are the exquisite designs of Carlo Villafuerte Pagunaling, shoe designs by Maco Custodio, and accessory designs by Joann Pamintuan. Choreography is quite good, too, thanks to Gio Gahol.

You can also avail t-shirts at the lobby

“Rak of Aegis” may well be a story of everyone – that each one of us dreams to be successful despite various predicaments. After all, the focus of the play is the ability to become strong, healthy, or be successful again after something bad happens.

The PETA Theater Center Audience

But worth highlighting is the lesson of the play (as stated by Magtoto above), wherein simply stressing the resilience of the Filipino is not always good. Teaching Filipinos to get used to systemic failures should alarm us all. Just as a dreamer always said: “Huwag mo hayaang masanay ka sa nakalakhan (Don’t be comfortable with what you’re used to).” Now, if Filipinos can somehow learn this through a musical like “Rak of Aegis”, then we truly have a sure winner here.

Meet and greet of the cast at the lobby 

The show will run again on July 5,2014 8PM Saturday and August 26 ,2014  8pm Saturday l March 9 at The PETA Theater Center.

Tickets are now available via www.ticketworld.com.ph (+632 8919999). For more information, contact PETA at (+632) 7256244 or (+63) 917-5765400, email petatheater@gmail.com, or visit www.petatheater.com.

This Article of mine is also published at
Outrage Magazine - and Fringe Magazine which is the official media of the said event.

Watch : Puerto Princesa Escapade at Mangroves Forest

It was really fun , when my friend decided to trek the Mangrooves Forest which is near Pristine Beach . But the Funny Scene happened.

Watch the Video Below 
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Pros and Cons: Virgin Beach or Commercialized Beach

As part of month-long celebration for my First Year Anniversary of Travel Blogging, I will be featuring these two kinds of beaches – Virgin and Commercialized Beach. I will be posting the real image and true meaning of “DEVELOPMENT”. I will be sharing my thoughts on how change affect in our nature by comparing the beach of Puerto Galera versus Calaguas Island.

 

Virgin Beach

April 10, 2014 was my Calaguas Island escapade. The coast is very astounding. It is like a paradise that hides in the middle of the ocean (since you need to surpass those large waves from Pacific Ocean just to reach the Island). It is totally virgin and clean.

 Advantages:

SOUL SEARCHING. In Virgin Beach you can easily evaluate your feelings and purposes - related to an internal search for deep meaning in your life. Many solo-travelers chose a place wherein they can easily meditate and Virgin Beach is perfect for that. Just like in Calaguas Island, you can go ahead and sit all day long at the beach without any disturbances- noise and pollution. It is only between you and the nature.

FRESH and STRESS-FREE. In beaches like in Calaguas Island; since it is not that accessible, there are only few visitors in a day. So you can really experience the Island in Authenticity just like a Castaway- no establishments and facilities. With that kind of surrounding, you can easily feel the tranquility. All the foods are fresh and the environment itself –New experience and you will learn to value the meaning of life because of the Rapid change of your ambiance (esp. if you are escaping urban living)

SOLO and LOVERS’ TOP CHOICE. Virgin Beach is advisable for solo traveler who wants to escape from heartache esp if you are heart-broken. Visiting this placid place is one way for you to reflect and express deep consideration to yourself. It fits also to those who want to write a poem, blogs, and etc because you can easily create your thoughts accordingly due to the amazing ambiance. Moreover, it is also suitable for couples who want to spend their time to each other.

Disadvantages:

But no matter how impeccable the Virgin Beach is, there are also disadvantages and Cons why travelers don’t want to include it in their bucket list.

EASE OF ACCESS. Going to a remote island is not easy. You also have to consider the transportation and the time you need to travel. Why Virgin Beach remain clean and immaculate visually? -Because not everybody is capable to visit that place that result to slow pacing of developing tourism.  Most of virgin beaches of the Philippines are situated in isolated places. So it is not convenience for anybody.

ACCOMMODITIONS and FACILITIES. Imagine sleeping in a hammock or tent is exciting part of going in a remote virgin beach. This is because no establishments will offer you a room for your entire stay. But, what if the “Call of Nature Happened”? Well, that will be the time that you need to be more tactful. But what if “My Camera needs to be recharge”, Well, that will be the time in which you need to prepare power banks or use solar energy gadgets. But what if “I need to check my Facebook or Check my phone”? Well, that will be the time wherein you need to separate yourself outside world because remote places usually had low signal or NO- WIFI at all.

Commercialized Beach

April 18, 2014 was my Puerto Galera Adventure. The beach is also remarkable due to the number of the tourists. It is like a nirvana of innumerable sexy bodies in the stretch of the white beach. The place is very well-developed and it is very saturated with various establishments

Advantages:

NO MAN IS AN ISLAND. Undeniably, man is a social being that cannot exist without his fellows. No one is self-sufficient and everyone relies on another for survival. And in Commercialized Beaches; it is very impossible to experience loneliness. Just like in Puerto Galera or even in Boracay, regardless if you are travelling alone, you can easily meet random people at that place - People that when you meet as acquaintances would end as a friend.

INSTANT. Instant foods are available in many restaurants that suit your taste. You can book your accommodation once you arrived. Bars are open 24 hours that cater the innumerable tourist. There are stores that sell goodies. There are developed amenities. Barangay police roved around to secure the vicinity.

EASY TO VISIT. Most of the families who are planning for summer getaway opted to go the accessible beaches –And majority of commercialized resorts are situated near metro. Indeed, beaches which are located near metro offer 24 hours transportation. So the number of tourist increases that leads into an abundant tourism.

Disadvantages

IGNORING THE BEAUTY. If the place is too commercialized and you are an itinerant, you will no longer appreciate the beauty of the nature because your attention is centering now on the amenities, accommodation, and facilities. It’s like you are now indulging the urban living yet in a beach set up.

OVERPOPULATED. Overpopulation may also results into a saturated place. You can no longer experience the relaxation yet noise will imbued thoroughly. In accordance to the number of visitors, the number of crime rate may also increases – robbery. Moreover, every time that you will saunter, you will not experience privacy.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNIST. Prices can be luxurious, especially peak season, when the business owners there become opportunists. They will increase the price since the demand of the place is also growing.

WANNA PLAY DIRTY. Aside from Dirty activities happened (Rave Culture) .Try to look at those various tarpaulins posted around the area; it is visually unpleasant; its looks like you are in the middle of the junkyard. Imagine those innumerable advertisements using different media. Notice those garbage scattered and empty bottles after the night long party. Isn’t it disappointing?

 

Not surprisingly, each one of us has a preference in choosing our summer destination. We have our own reason why we handpick that place and include it in our bucket list.

When we say development, it has something to do with change – total transformation. But let me ask you, is “Development” gives us  benefits, in what way and how?  It is not an easy road for me to compare these two beaches; because each beach has its own gems (weakness and strength) why tourists visit and why others don’t.

It doesn’t matter to me, either virgin or commercialized beach, as long as the place is worth traveling for and there is FUN waiting ahead.

My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 8: Tips , Tricks and Words of Warning

Bye Galera ! Im going home.

Hello Guys and Gals! Huge thanks to all who follow and read my Puerto Galera Escapade. I certainly appreciate on your response via email. I received bulk of emails with various reactions. Honestly, it was a strong decision I made when I disclosed my story online. I received feedbacks from my relatives, workmates, and close friends and to my online acquaintances – but no need for me to explain. Some were asking and some were giving suggestions.

As I completed my Puerto Galera Adventure, Let me leave you this blog post that tackles about - Tips, Tricks and Word of Warning. These are things that you might just ignore but these are point of view that you may use for your future reference.

Tips :

Tent or Room? – This is one question that I also asked to myself before going to Puerto Galera. I have my own tent idle so why not use it. Is it permitted to install?

Bahay Bahayan : couple at their mansion (este tent)

I ended up in a Puerto Galera’s website and it was stated there that Tent is not allowed. But here’s the thing during my stay, Tent is allowed in Puerto Galera, however you need to pay PHP500 / 24 hrs in a specific area (Tent City) so that you can install your tent. Or if you don’t have tent, you can rent one tent for PHP500 /24 hrs. Plus another PHP500 / 24 hrs. for the place. So imagine, Php 1000.00 for one day.

But as far as I noticed, there were few tourists who installed their tent at the beach – located far from the crowd (maybe because they are avoiding the Tanod’s confrontation.) But believe me; it’s working for the others.

Meanwhile, Room which is not air-conditioned is amounting to php 4000 - 5000 up (peak season). The advantage of choosing room is the security of your personal belongings- laptop, phone, camera and etc. But truly, Mabigat sa Bulsa. So might as well, share it with your friends. Moreover, I never recommend an air-conditioned (if you are resilient or traveling w/o baby) because you will spend most of your time outside rather than staying inside (e.g. night party, beach bumming and etc.) or else LUGI KA.

Be friendly - be friendly to anybody especially if you go to the party alone. Surely, you will have a drink for free as long as you know how to smile.  Just stare any of the guys dancing; do some flirting and smile.

But you have to be careful and cautious on accepting a drink or else you will wake up next day naked in other room. ( or worst, your video scandal will become viral LOL).

Tricks:

Single or Round Trip Ticket? When I arrived at Batangas Port I have to buy my ticket. At the ticket both I noticed the prices accdg to its destination. Prices also vary in different Ferry Companies. I bought one way ticket since I don’t know when we will go home. One way ticket is PHP 275 and two-way is mounting to PHP500. So you can save PHP 50 as a result.

Therefore, it would be better if you purchase your two way ticket right at Batangas Port. Don’t worry if you don’t have specific date  and time going back to Batangas because; here is the thing, Once you arrived at Puerto Galera, you will be asked to go to your corresponding ferry company to confirm your trip. So it’s almost the same process if you will buy your ticket there. The advantage is that you saved PHP50 because you already bought it for PHP500 unlike if you will buy it there for another PHP275.

Lesson learned...

 Solo or Group Vacation? –Mike stated to his website: Prices can be luxurious, especially during the Holy Week, when the businesses there become opportunists. How expensive, exactly? Well, during off-peak season, accommodation prices can be as low as P500 per night for an air-conditioned room – that inflates to well over P4, 000 during peak season. Solution: when visiting, go with friends so you share the expenses. Many resorts offer group packages for a minimum of 10 persons worth around 1800 pesos per person per day inclusive of ferry, meals and accommodation. Other resorts offer tour packages to Puerto Galera’s numerous tourist spots, like Bayanan Beach, Haligi Beach, Bulabod Beach, Tamaraw Falls and Tukuran Hidden Paradise.

There are many resorts in White Beach which offer rooms with aircon, cable TV and hot/cold shower. The room rates vary according to the season: when it’s normal season (June to October), a room will range from 1000 to 1500 (good for 2 persons), when it’s high season (November to May), the same room will range from 1500 to 400. – Outrage Magazine

 Cheaper Foods?

It is very impossible for you guys to find least expensive foods in Puerto Galera especially at the beach front wherein restaurants are located. Imagine just a Tapsilog amounting to PHP120 -180 per order- that’s too expensive right? But you just need to be adventurous; behind the establishments you will find eateries that offer 50 pesos per meal including one rice and one dish (free soup and water). So it’s a huge saving for you who travels the cheapest way possible.

As for the expenses (e.g. food, drinks), don’t frequent the seaside restos – instead, leave that for the evenings (when you have to see and be seen) and discover the venues inland at other times of the day.

In addition, bottled water is pretty expensive. Be tactful – you can bring your own and never buy even at the port of Batangas coz it’s also expensive.

Word of Warning:

Hoy Kuya ! Dont leave your camera.

Dampot Gang.- there are many cases of robbery reported in Barangay. So be careful of your belongings especially if you are going to swim and due to excitement you will leave your important things at one spot of the beach – phone, camera and wallet. According to a local resident whom I had a short conversation that mostly of “Kawatan” are tourists also. “ Walang magnanakaw na local dito, kasi kung pagala-gala ang mga local sa beach , kilala na agad ng mga barangay police”.

Even your pair of flip-flops, it will vanish in just a wink of an eye if you are going to leave it. So be cautious..

Pink Money – My friend Mike told me about the flesh selling of the beach. “Beware of the sex workers (or self-identified “straights,” both locals and those visiting) who are into “fun” for money (this started only around 2004).” He said. “Particularly, when visiting the landmarks (Jurrasic Park or Rockwell), they tend to compete with other gay guys for your attention – except that, when something is about to happen, they demand some form of payment. So beware…” he stressed.

PUSH MO YAN : "My tanned skin will fade away but my memories in Puerto Galera will last for a lifetime."

So Itchy – There are lot of creatures that bite in the water, causing breakouts or whatever that can ruin the look when it’s time to party - (e.g. jelly sting, sand bugs, et cetera).

 Spread Love not the Virus - And lastly, bring condoms for protection (people tend to forget, especially when they’re drunk, that it is always NEEDED). Why I say so? Well that’s the thing that you need to find out next summer.

I knew now my status : As I underwent a free HIV test at Puerto Galera. It took 15mins to wait for he result and you will also get free condom afterwards. 

Puerto Galera may have its attraction, but it isn’t perfect. However, those imperfections make the place more interesting. So I hope you guys are open-minded and try a new adventure at Puerto Gay-lera. By that, you will learn to understand diversity.

My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 1
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 2
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 3
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 4
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 5
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 6
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 7
My Puerto Galera Chronicle Part 8

A Beam of Breakthrough: I Love Tansyong’s One Year Anniversary.

It was just a vision, a dream to live a life that I want. June 2013, when I started to browse my Facebook pictures and I noticed that most of them -were travel. I started to write it (on my diary), and it leads me to come up with my online journal entitled “I Love Tansyong”.

I work …I Travel…, I become…..

I work

Others told me that my hobby is too expensive; I should work and save for my future, I must prepare ahead of time for my life instead of traveling. I answered “It is not a hobby, it is my life. That is why I worked hard so that I can Travel more.” In fact, I don’t even have any other source of income since the day I started to travel except my job as a Call Center Agent which I considered as my bread and butter – paying my monthly electric bill, water bill, house rent, cable and internet connection .

But as a full time employee, it is really hard to do it simultaneously. Weekends, vacation leaves, sick leaves, and holidays are only my best friends. And the challenges are how to manage my time scarce resources and how to maintain my health just to work and wander at the same time. But after one year of those fracases, the important is “I still made it”.

I Travel

Looking back at the past one year, I am very thankful that in the middle of my trip I witnessed and experienced a lot of things -things that I can surely be proud of - because not anybody had given a chance to do it. Who would expect that I did three days travel for only PHP500 and Puerto Princesa City for six days amounting to PHP 4500 all-in.]

During my travels, I learned lessons that I can never get inside in a four-corner classroom. Who would expect that in Boracay was my first recreational drug experience and who would thought that I did something exciting last summer in Puerto Galera.-Things that I can never forget in my entire life. I also had a chance to do Yoga, Frisbee, Poi Dancing, Biking , Surfing and Etc...- Adventures and electrifying activities that gave me the meaning true of “CALCULATED RISK TAKING”.

I also had a chance to meet random people- in the bus, ship or airport or even in the destination. (e.g. locals, travel bloggers, globe trotters, businessmen , Magazine Editor in chief and etc). Those people that will change your perception and bring you out the reality of the “outside world” – people that are willing to share their life stories so that you can use it on your future travel.

I Become

After one year of wanderlust, honestly upon checking my bank account, I just realized that I don’t have any more savings for my emergency fund. But when I looked back on the happenings within the past year, I also realized the enjoyment which is very priceless no matter how much the remaining balance of my saving is. I become a better person- the fulfillment is an indescribable feeling. I was able to witness the reality of the outside world on my own- without media feeds, news or tales from other travelers, however, I, myself, and I  was able to see it with my naked eye.

Undeniably, a beam of my lips is the sign of the breakthrough of my one-year travel blogging. A smile… laughter.. Learnings...are the prizes of those hardships. It’s not all about the place, destination, and adventures but discovering “me, myself” in the middle of the voyage is the important thing I acquired. I Work... I Travel... I become a NOMAD

Thank you so much for supporting my blog. To all my friends and readers; you guys inspired me to continue this milestone. Who would expect that I conquered ONE YEAR..- ONE YEAR of SMILE.

A Call Center Girl Shouts Vacation at Last!

Edna De Lara , A call center girl rediscovers the Lubang Island after she escapes from her stressful  work. She shouts " VACATION AT LAST" 

When you are exposed to work for a long time and you feel like being exhausted all that you’ll be longing for is a vacation, a little break or even just a bit of relaxation you’ll consider it a golden time, and when the opportunity comes all that you can say is “vacation at last “- all you going to feel is relief .This is how my vacation goes.

My shift starts at 9pm to 6am but I have to be on the bus before 6am. So what I did is I requested to have an early out and luckily may boss allowed me to do so

Coastal Bus Terminal is just a few minutes away from my office. I jaunt a taxi going there, taxi fare would be 80 pesos since there is no heavy traffic - it was early in the morning and the Bus terminal is just a few meters away from SM moa. From Coastal Mall I galloped on a CELYROSA BUS going to Calatagan which takes 3 hours travel time , I opted an ordinary bus because Airconditioned buses trip are scheduled  to depart at 7am  and If I’m going to wait for it, there is a possibility that I won’t be able to catch up the ferry boat going to Lubang Island .

                 Calatagan is one of the towns in the province of Batangas, It has its own port since it’s a town is near the seashore or should I say it’s a place surrounded by sea -no wonder there are  lot of beautiful  beaches situated in this place such as Ronco Beach Resort ,Blue Waters Beach  &  Lago de Oro to mention few. From Calatagan bus Terminal, I need to ride a tricycle going to Calatagan port, accordingly the fare is 15pesos. The simple design of the port is intended to accommodate small vessels like fishing vessel which locally known as (BASNIG) which used to catch fish-it has its own crews. It is also intended and/or considered as an entry point for all the Ferry boats (“Bangka”) bound to various places in Mindoro.

            From Calatagan Port I just have to wait for the Ferry boat that is bound to Lubang Island -fare is 500 pesos but lately they decreased it to 400 pesos with terminal fee amounting to 15 pesos... Boats  bound to Lubang Island depart at exactly 11am meaning if you arrived too early , I can suggest that you rove around  like you can buy goodies at the market because it is just a tricycle ride-away from the pier( fare is 20 pesos which will cost you 40 pesos back in fort). There are available tropical fruits to buy which is least expensive compared in Metro Manila indeed it is more convenient. You can proceed inside the boat even if it’s not yet boarding time and stay there until the departure.

               Travelling via ferry is more relaxing to me .In fact I always choose to sit adjacent to the window; aside from comfortability, I can appreciate the panoramic view and breathe fresh air.


Lubang Island was a natural entrepôt and was situated at the crossroads of sea routes of several major early historical polities in the Philippines.The trip between Calatagan and the Port of Lubang at Tilik takes approximately two hours. M/B God's Grace II & III Lubang Island Group has two public sea ports – one in the town of Lubang (Tilik) Location, one in Cabra Island, Lubang, Mindoro Occidental, Philippines the archipelago through Verde Island Passage, one of busiest sea routes of the Philippines.


            Undeniably this place is full of beautiful beaches and scenecal views aside from historical stories that this place has to share is the last japanese gerilla was captured in this island by the name of Hiroo Onoda, who has died at 91, He was a Japanese soldier who surrendered in the Philippines 29 years after World War II in the place called onoda cave in Lubang Island.
In Lubang Island is the place where my son is currently studying, and that is my reason why I kept on visiting this place. I was able to rove the entire proximity and embrace the astonishing nature. Far from the nature of my nerve-racking work- fast pacing lifestyle and stressful environment. “ VACATION AT LAST”!

Edna De Lara is a 35 year old strong woman and a mom of 12 years old boy, who believes that travelling, is a way for you to escape the stressful work. She works in a BPO company every weekdays and she still allocates her weekend to travel (sans laundry and house cleaning). She finished Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Management at New Era University QC. “I travel for soulsearching” she said.