Bus Just For You

Consider bus rentals.  I've had several experiences with those and here are some:


When I was little, my family and I joined family vacations.  In the Philippines, family would not just mean the basic family but the whole clan.  In our case, the family would mean my maternal grandfather, his partner, his children and his grandchildren.  That's us.  We are a huge family.  my grandfather has 11 children and back then, 7 of the 11 were already married and had an average of 3 children per family.  Anyway, there are a lot of good memories during those trips most of which were in the buses.  My older cousins brought with them some muscial instruments, while we mostly brought food and some board games.  I believe the bus rental we used then were of the companies of the buses that plied the EDSA.  

When we were in the US and were planning to go to the Yosemite Park, we opted for a bus rental instead of bringing my relatives' cars.  We saved on gas because we only had to spend for 1 vehicle.  We saved on toll fees.  We saved on food costs as we had brought lots of food and stopped at some park to eat.   There was enough space for the small children to take naps and we didn't have to clean up after the trip.  What's more is that it was a lot of fun having everyone in one bus.  We sang, told stories, shared jokes.  It was convenient since there were at least 2 people who could drive the vehicle.  You know what, I even felt safer that we were in a bigger transportation.

While planning for my daughter's debut, I thought of bringing all of the guests to an out of town resort on a mountain.  That resort is near the university Ikee goes to. I thought her friends and the other invitees would all be able to provide for their own transportation. It dawned on me that most of Ikee's friends wouldn/t be able to go as many of them are not even 18 yet and couldn't drive according to Philippine laws.  I only have one car and my dad has one too but those wouldn't suffice to transport everyone.  Then I thought of a bus rental.  The city government where I live rents out buses at a discounted rate to its constituents.  It would've been perfect if we didn't have a change of plan.  


There are too many advantages at using buses and vehicle rentals.  You just have to choose the right one.  Consider the following when choosing what to rent:


1. comfort - will it be able to accommodate the number of people and the stuff you will bring.  I believe there should be an allowance of 1 or 2 person-seats.  This means that if there are 10 persons riding, the vehicle should be able to accommodate at least 12. 


2.  price - do your research. there are a number of car, van and  bus rental  companies that are published on the internet.  Also, do check out the ones in sulit.com.ph and the ones on the yellow pages of a telephone directory.  


3.  inclusions - some rentals have their own drivers, some need you to gas up after the trip, etc.
4,  permits and licenses - some buses or jeeps are used for public transport but they can also be hired for private use.  See to it that the vehicle has the necessary permit in order for you to avoid hassles during your trip.

These are but some of the things that you need to remember when renting a vehicle.  Next you take a trip with the family, try a bus rental.  You'll have memories to store when you do so.

Mt. Makiling Hike

Ikee's going to Los Banos. It is time that we explore the place while she's there. First, since UPLB is at the foot of Mt. Makiling, we should start our discovery of the area there. Mt. Makiling is one of the most significant dormant volcanoes in Laguna, a province in the Southern part of Luzon island, Philippines. It is the reason why Los Banos has a number of hot spring resorts. Not just that, Makiling is a mystical and mythical mountain that is believed to be protected by a goddess named Maria Makiling. According to legend, she was a generous, kind-hearted yet possessive goddess.

I heard and read about the tourism in the area of the University and it seems like a good place to have a family trip. We may in fact join the Hike organized by NACCI this June 4, 2011. Of particular interest to me are the national forest reserve, the museum and the botanic garden. We'd probably book a room at the SEARCA Residence Hotel. It's currently priced at 1900 php for an overnight stay for two. I heard this is better than Trace College Hotel. Can't confirm that though because I only got to stay at SEARCA.

If you would like to take a tour of Makiling, you may get in touch with Nature Awareness and Conservation Club, Inc (NACCI) or the Pinoymountaineer. NACCI has an organized hike this June while Pinoymountaineer has a blog on do's and don'ts and what to expect in Makiling. I suggest you browse through it before you go.

Might you wanna join us?

Singapore on A Budget - Botanic Gardens

The park is a huge land home to some very colorful and interesting plants - from trees to flowering plants to ferns to medicinal herbs and a whole lot more. It even has its own rainforest and heritage trees that are really towering and have been there for ages. It is a beautiful, beautiful place. Don't bother about the price though because it's free. If you opt to go to the National Orchid Garden, you need to pay $5 per adult. children 12 years and below are free to enter. Seniors and students pay only $1 each.



The park has a children's garden/playground which we didn't get to see either. But our host wanted to show us. I believe it would have been nice to go there too. and yes, it's also free.



One of the most relaxing and to me the most amazing thing in Singapore is its Botanic Gardens. It's about 15 minutes away from Orchard Road, but it is accessible by bus, by foot or by taxi.





I regret not having read about it ahead of time. I usually do so prior to our visits to other countries. However this year i thought we would have a slow paced vacation. It would have been interesting to take the rainforest trek which the park offers. Oh well, as we say, there's always a next time. Till then Singapore!

Singapore on A Budget -Irvin's Cze Char Seafood Restaurant

Here's another place that we liked in Singapore. Irvin's Seafood Restaurant is a stone's throw away from our hosts' home so naturally we tried to eat there. They have a live crab aquarium (or is it a terrarium) from where they harvest the crustacean they will serve you. Naturally, we ordered salted egg crab again as this has become my favorite dish in Singapore. Who wouldn't? It's served freshly harvested and cooked just after you order. Ooohlala!



The Fried Calamari aka squid rings is cooked the usual way but with some chilli in it.



Here are the others. Sorry I don't know what you call them but I assure you from the bottom of my belly that they are all yummy. hahaha!

This dishy has a nutty flavor.

Mantou bread (pronounced "mun taw")



By the way, because this is a blog on Singapore on a budget, did I say it's cheap there too?

Singapore on A Budget - Hawker Centers

When visiting a foreign land, we wanna try to get immersed in their culture. That's how we make our trip fun, exciting and cheap. During this trip to Singapore, we finally got the chance to go to a hawker center. A Hawker center is a cluster of food stalls that serve mostly local food at low prices.

One such is Newton Circus Hawker Centre at Clemenceau Singapore. It is about 10 minutes drive from Orchard Road and there is an abundance of cabs and buses. One can find a table in the al fresco part of the complex or by the food stalls. There's not much of an ambiance there. The prices at the stall we ordered from are so cheap that a meal that would have normally cost us more than 200 SGP only cost about 85 for 6 adults and a 4-year old kid. Amazingly cheap eh? not just that, the food was great! Cheap prices, good flavors - what more can you ask for?

We had Grilled Sting Ray with chilli sauce, Kangkong with Belachan, Cereal Prawn, Satay, and Honeyed chicken. I like the food but not as much as I loved those at Forture Seafood Steamboat. However, Newton is closer to the center of the city. Both are worth a try.

Address:
Newton Circus Hawker Centre
500 Clemenceau Avenue North 229492

A High-Tech Vacation? Why Not? - Things to bring

As a backpacker or a budget traveler, would you bring a laptop, an ipad, or a phone with an internet access during a vacation trip? I would include that in my own vacation list.

For several reasons. First, it has saved us some money during our trips. Of course it is true that I do my research before I leave. In fact I start months before our scheduled trip. But when we get to our destination, we always end up having to decide on whether to go with our plan or change it altogether. This is because when we get there, we normally find other places of interest that are rarely posted on the net. Usually, when we have gotten some information from the friendly locals, there are tips that are valuable and should not be missed.

Second, is that we find use for it when taking note of where else to go and how to go there. Yup, locals might be helpful but not all of them. Plus, there's the language barrier issue. Like when we arrived at the Hong Kong Ferry terminal from Macau at 3 am. We took a cab and the driver didn't understand where we were going. He didn't speak english either. They have a central office who he had called but the girl at the other line didn't understand me either. It took us a whole frustrating hour to get to our hostel.

Third, also from ads on the streets from locals too, we found our way to some place but couldn't go back to where we came from. It was good that my husband had his Thinkpad with him.

Fourth, it offers you several alternatives for you to get the most from your vacation. Also while in Hong Kong, we decided to extend one more day but we were being charged more if we didn't go through AsiaTravel where we originally got our booking. Sure, there were computer shops but we would have to locate one. Plus there's the hassle of going out and coming back a couple more times than necessary.

Believe me. We've done it a number of times on our international trips. There are several other reasons but these are the ones that are worth mentioning. It's so much more than just getting in touch with your family back home to bring an internet-0ready gadget. Besides, with the new technology that have recently been out in the market, the once 2 kilogram, shoulder-tearing, back-breaking and tongue-falling high-tech gadget is now even lighter than your shoulder bag.

50% for PAL's Mabuhay Mile's Awards Tickets

How I wish I could schedule my trip to the US soon. I'm going there next year because I have to go to Alberta for the SEC Assessment with CARNA. On my way to AB, I'll pass by LA to see my mom.

But I wish I could just go this time instead. Up until October 5, 2009 Mabuhay Miles award tickets can be redeemed at 50% off. Thus, if I have to go to the US on an award ticket, I can actually use just half of the usual mileage and have the other half converted to asian trips for the three of us! what a real treat. But then again the prescribed Travel Period is only from 15 September - 10 December 2009. Couldn't they have extended it?

You may want to check out the deal at www.mabuhaymiles.com.

When Travelling, Take Pictures!

As a trying-hard-to-be a conservationist, I rant to my friends and family (to the almost utmost dismay of my unica hija) the lines "take only pictures... ". Ah, but don't let me repeat them again lest my daughter reads this and goes mad. hehehe

Anyway, I oh so love and admire people who try to make a difference even in their hobbies. Like, Kayak Philippines has recently come up with a race for novice and pros at the Hundred Islands in Pangasinan. To try to promote the sport and help the eco-tourism of the Philippines, the organizers have partnered with the Department of Tourism and Cebu Pacific, among others, to come up with a Race, Kayak Clinic, Tour of Alaminos, and a photography workshop with Master George Tapan all bundled up and costs Php 750.000. Yup, it even includes all meals, a tee shirt and fees to the race. If you want to know more about this, or would like to join the race, visit their website at http://www.kayakphilippines.ws/http%3A__kayakphilippines.ws/Kayakphilippines.ws.html.

Now, who says summer is an expensive break.

Notes on Sagada and Banaue

For this summer, the highlight of our vacation (and probably the only one) is our trip to Sagada. Here are some of the websites that have helped me with my research and planning for our Sagada and Banaue trip:

1. G-Strain my husband's friend, Gerry, and their other buddies' trip to Banawe. Details include a cost accounting for a budget tour.

2. Pictures of a Sagada trip - Calming the Giant

I love the pictures by this hobbyist taken during his trip to sagada. You just have to check this one out too.



Visitasagada.com and the sagadagenuineguides.blogspot.com are most helpful too. I'm still looking for other companions so we can share the expenses. It will bring down the costs for all of us. The more, the merrier or so they say.

I'm back! Discounted Packages and Tickets

It's been hectic lately. We have just finished the Season 1 swimming competition at ULTRA. Anyway, last Sunday, I found that there were 2 really cheap packages offered by Amkor and Golden Sky travel agencies for Manila-Hongkong-Manila. Amkor's price is only 87 USD while Golden Sky offers it at 57 USD. Of course, these are group tours and the accommodations may not be as you would like it. But, hey, when you're on budget, you just wanna go and be there, right? I suggest you check these out. They were on the Manila Bulletin Sept. 7 issue.

Worth checking out too are the rates of both Malaysia Air (for travel to Malaysia) and those of Cebu Pacific. Jetstar Asia also came up with half fare promos to "all destinations". Sale starts from 10 to 14 Sep 2008 for travel from 15 September to 15 October 2008. Check out their websites if you're interested.

Buses In the Philippines - For The Budget-concious Traveller

If you're looking to travel within the Philippines on a low budget, the best way for you to go between places is to take the bus. Here is a list which I got from my own research and from several sources on the internet, most of which are lifted from Philippines Travel Guide and others from several different sites. Here they are:

Aladdin Transit Corporation
Location: 1310 Espana Cnr. Galicia Streets, Sampaloc, Manila
Destinations: Cagayan Valley in Region in the extreme north of Luzon.
Telephone Number: + 63 2 743 8523; + 63 2 781 9168

ALPS The Bus, Inc.
Service Routes: Batangas to Alabang; Batangas to Lawton; Batangas to Pasay; Batangas to Cubao/Kamias; Cubao to Iloilo; Cubao to Estancia and vise versa.
Telephone: +6343-7239033
e-mail: info@alpsthebus.com
Website: www.alpsthebus.com

Autobus Transport Systems Incorporated
Location: Dimasalang Street Cnr. Laong Laan Street, Sampaloc, Manila
Destinations: Baguio, Laoag, Cagayan Valley, Dagupan, Ifugao, Kalinga & Isabela provinces.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 735 8098

Baliwag Transit Incorporated
Location: 199 Rizal Avenue Extension, Cnr 2nd Avenue, Caloocan City, Manila
Destinations: Baliwag, Cababatuan in Nueva Ecija Province, San Jose del Monte in Bulacan Province. All in the far north of Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: + 63 2 364 0860 + 63 2 363 4478, + 63 2 363 4431, + 63 2 364 0778, + 63 2 365 7886


Baliwag Transit Incorporated
Location: 33 Edsa, Cubao, Quezon City.
Destinations: Baliwag, San Jose del Monte in Bulacan Province and Aparri and Tuguegarao in Cagayan Province which is in the far north of Luzon Island.
Telephone Numbers: + 63 2 912 3343, + 63 2 912 3349, + 63 2 912 3361

BLTB – Batangas Laguna Tayabas Bus Company
Location: Edsa Pasay City
Destinations: Calamba in Laguna province, Nasugbu in Batangas province, Lucena in Quezon province, Legaspi in Albay province, Naga in Camarines Sur province and Sorsogon province. BLTB will also travel into, Leyte & Samar.
Telephone Numbers: + 63 2 833 5508, + 63 2 833 5501, + 63 2 913 1525

Dagupan Bus Lines
Location: New York Street, Cubao, Quezon City, Manila
Destinations: Dagupan, Alaminos, Lingayen in Pangasinan province and further north to Baguio City and Benguet province. Both these provinces are in central Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: + 63 2 727 2330, + 63 2 929 6123, + 63 2 928 5639, + 63 2 727 2330, + 63 2 727 2287

Dangwa Tranco Company Incorporated
Location: 1600 Dimasalang Street, Sampaloc, Manila.
Location: 832 Aurora Boulevard, Cubao.
Destinations: Both terminals have bus transport Philippines to Benguet province and Ifugao Province in the Cordillera Administrative Region in the northern central area of Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: + 63 2 731 2879, + 63 2 410 1991

Dominion Transit
Location: New York Street, Cubao, Quezon City
Destinations: The provinces of Abra, La Union and Ilocos Sur on the north west coast of Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: + 63 2 741 4146, + 63 2 731 4180

Eaglestar Transit
Location: Ali Mall 1, Cubao, Q.C.
Service Route: Samar, Leyte
Tel No: 63(2)913-1510

Farinas Transit Company
Location: Laong Laan cnr and M dela Fuente Streets, Sampaloc, Manila
Destinations: The city of Vigan in Ilocos Sur province and the city of Laoag in Ilocos Norte province on the north western Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: + 63 2 731 4507, + 63 2 731 4375, + 63 2 743 8580

Five Star Bus Company
Location: Aurora Boulevard, Pasay City, Manila
Destinations: Dagupan and Bolinao in Pangasinan province, Cabanatuan in Nueva Ecija province in the north of Luzon island.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 833 8339, +63 2 833 3009

Franco Frederico Lines
Location: Sampaloc Manila.
Destinations: The provinces of Ilocos Sur & Ilocos Norte in the north of Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 731 4473, +63 2 731 2584

Genesis Bus
Recto Station of LRT
Service Route: Bataan, Manila

Inland Trailways Incorporated
Location: Edsa, Pasay City, Manila.
Destinations: The city of Legaspi in Albay province, Lucena City in Quezon province, Naga City in Camarines Sur province and Sorsogon province all in the southern end of Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 833 6280.

JAM Transit
Location: Taft Avenue, Pasay City, Manila.
Location: New York Street, Cubao, Quezon City.
Destinations: Batangas, Quezon and Laguna provinces south of Manila.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 541 4409, +63 2 924 7712, +63 2 831 4390.

JAC Liner
Location: EDSA cor. Kamias St., Quezon City
Service Route: Laguna, Quezon
Tel No: 63(2)682-5750


JB Line Bicol Express
Location: Aurora Boulevard, Pasay City.
Destinations: The city of Legaspi in Albay province, Lucena City in Quezon province and Naga City in Camarines Sur province in southern Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 833 2949.

16. Maria de Leon Transit
Location: Corner Gelinos and Dapitan Streets, Sampaloc, Manila.
Destinations: City of San Fernando in La Union province, Vigan City in Ilocos Sur province and Laoag City in Ilocos Norte province all on the north western coast of Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 731 4907.

Partas Transportation Company Incorporated
Location: 816 Aurora Boulevard, Cubao, Quezon City.
Destinations: To the city of Baguio, Benguet province, Bangued in Abra province, Laoag City in Ilocos Norte province, San Fernando in La Union Province and the city of Vigan in Ilocos Sur province. All in the north west coast and Cordillera mountains of Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 725 7303, +63 2 724 9820.

Philippine Rabbit Business Lines Incorporated
Location: Edsa, Quezon City.
Destinations: The city of Bangued in Abra province, Laoag City in Ilocos Norte province, City of San Fernando in La Union Province, Tarlac province and Vigan City in Ilocos Sur province all provinces are on the north western coast of Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 734 9836, +63 2 734 9838

Philtranco
Location: Edsa, Pasay City.
Destinations: south to Daet in Camarines Norte province, Legaspi City in Albay province, Lucena in Quezon province, Naga in Camarines Sur province and Sorsogon province all to the south of Manila on the southern end of Luzon.
Also travels via ferry across to Samar Island and through Leyte and onto Davao City on Mindanao Island.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 832 2456, +63 2 833 1369, +63 2 833 5061

RCJ Transit
Destination : La Union, Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte (and all provinces on the way)
Terminal : España St. cor. Gov. Forbes Ave., Sampaloc, Manila; Tel No: 63(2)731-4907;
For Schedule Information Only: Libis, Quezon City; Tel No.: 63(2)912-9378, 911-3978

Saulog Transit, Inc.
Address: 1377 Quirino Ave.Parañaque
Service Routes: Manila, Cavite, Olongapo City, Baguio City
Telephone Numbers: 825-2972 or 825-2930

Times Transit
Service Routes: San Fernando La Union, Vigan, Laoag
Telephone Number: 741-4146

Tritran Transit Incorporated
Location: Edsa, Quezon City, Manila
Service Routes: Batangas and Quezon provinces to the south of Manila on Luzon Island.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 925 1758, +63 2 925 1759

Victory Liner Incorporated
Location: Edsa, Pasay City, Manila
Location 713 Rizal Avenue Extension, Caloocan City
Location: Edsa, Cubao
Destinations: Olongapo and Iba Cities in Zambales province, Tarlac province, San Fernando in La Union province, Baguio City, Benguet province, Alaminos, Bolinao and Dagupan cities in Pangasinan province and Tuguegarao and Aparri towns in Cagayan province. All in the north of Manila on Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: +63 2 833 0293, +63 2 833 5019, +63 2 361 4665, +63 2 741 1439, +63 2 361 1506, +63 2 361 1510

Viron Transportation Company Incorporated
Location: Corner 1209 Blumentritt and Dapitan Streets, Sampaloc, Manila.
Destinations: The city of Tarlac, Dagupan City in Pangasinan province, San Fernando in La Union province and Vigan City in Ilocos Sur province all in the north of Luzon.
Telephone Numbers: +632 741 6588

Latest Travel Deals Asia (In the Philippines in Particular)

I've been really, really busy these days. My hands have been full (literally) with things to do for my daughter's first week of school and my attendance to the Red Cross Standard First Aid Training this week. Anyway, here are the newest travel deals I've found:

In Asia:

Free Fares
1. from Siem Reap to Pnom Penh via Jetstar Asia.
$20 on - Oneway Special Promotion to Phnom Penh.

2. To Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur from Manila
To Kotakinabalu from Cebu
both are from Malaysia Airlines. booking period is from June to 22, 2008 and travel period is from July 15 to December 14, 2008.

3. To Kota Kinabalu from Manila for 280 Php via AirAsia
to Singapore from KL for 1 RM via Air Asia.com
purchase period is from June 10 - 22 2008 and the Travel Period is from 1 Jul 2008 - 25 Sep 2008.


Within the Philippines
Affordable airfares for Naga and Tuguegarao via Airphilippines.

Manila to Naga for as low as Php88++

Manila to Tuguegarao for only Php288++ per way.

MANILA-NAGA
Departure 0645H Arrival 0730H DAILY

NAGA-MANILA
Departure 0800H Arrival 0845H DAILY

MANILA-TUGUEGARAO
Departure 1350H Arrival 1440H MON-WED-FRI

TUGUEGARAO-MANILA
Departure 1510H Arrival 1600H MON-WED-FRI

Tickets for this sale can be purchased from 16 June 2008 onwards. As always, fare is exclusive of taxes and surcharges.

You may reach the Airphilippines Reservations at (02) 855 9000 or check out their website:www.airphils.com for more details. I think you can also book with travel agents.


Also from Airphilippines, fare from Manila to Boracay is being offered for as low as P88/oneway on specific flights:


MANILA-CATICLAN (BORACAY)


Flight number Departure Arrival Frequency
2P 071 1510H 1620H Daily

2P 077 1545H 1655H Daily


CATICLAN (BORACAY) -MANILA

Flight number Departure Arrival Frequency

2P 036 0725H 0835H Daily

2P 038 0805H 0915H Daily


As always, taxes and surcharges are excluded.

There are others but I've got to go elsewhere. I'll write about the other flights later. Ciao!

Exploring the Outdoors at Anawangin (Part 2)

continued from part 1


It was a good thing we took the package from Voyager Adventures Club. They had prepared practically everything. Food, van to and from Pundaquit, boat from Pundaquit to Anawangin to Capones Island and back to Pundaquit, and the tents. There were a few things that were missed during the orientation like we were not told that we needed to bring our own plates, cups and utensils. Thus, we ended up borrowing the wares from the organizers (it's a good thing they had some), and had to eat with our hands too. Another thing they missed telling us was that we should have brought something to make our sleeping area softer. It wasn't our first time to camp but it was a first time for us to join an outdoor adventure group. But those are minor things which didn't affect how much we had enjoyed the trip.



So, as I was telling you guys earlier (last night actually), we went for a swim at the river. Some say it is a lake but when you get to the end of it, you'll find out that it actually drains to the sea, unlike lakes that do not connect to any other body of water. Both sides of the river had pine tree or fir trees if you prefer to call it that. This particular river has varying depths because the water level is affected by the tide - high tide equals deep water, low tide means no water.



We ate lunch at 2 pm. Everyone was just so excited to get as much of the place as possible. I noticed that the later in the day it got, the more people came in. In the afternoon, what seemed to be an almost deserted forest was filled with tents of different sizes and colors. There must have been a hundred or so of those dome type ones. It was a good thing we got there ahead of the crowd and got to pick a nice spot for ourselves. There was even a large spot in the middle of our group's camp to hold a bonfire. But of course, our organizers, being mountaineers and nature conservationists, did not really want one. Noone wanted any anyway. I guess most of us were tired.

The following day we got up at 5:30 am. The call time was at 5 but I didn't hear anyone call me. hehehe... anyway, we packed all our things and rode our boat to Capones island without breakfast. The schedule was that we'd go there for a short 1- hour trip and would proceed to Pundaquit where we would have breakfast and lunch. But our boatman, old man Amando, didn't want to bring us to a part of the island close to the lighthouse. Naturally, we walked without any idea that it would take more than an hour to get there. I didn't get to the lighthouse because my daughter tripped on some rock and I stayed with her instead.

It was already 10 am by the time my husband got back to the drop off place. He and the others were picked up by a boat from the lighthouse. I was all fumed up when I learned that it was really possible to be brought to the foot of the hill where the lighthouse was. It was even worse when we couldn't find our boatman when we wanted to leave so we contracted some other guy.




Right in the middle of the sea between Pundaquit and Capones, our boat stopped and wouldn't start. It was the curse of the abandoned boatman! hahaha Almost at the same time, we were met by Mang Amando who was trying to explain why he was late and why he had left. He was urging us to transfer but we didn't want to. In the first place, we didn't want to risk having anyone or anything fall into the water. Sensing our hesitation and stubbornness, he offered to tow us to shore instead to which our new boatman agreed since it was the only way we could get back to the mainland.

When we got to the Pundaquit beach, we paid the boatman 200 pesos just for the effort of trying to do us some favor. He was happy and we were... uhhh... happier of course that we got to land dry and in one piece. Lunch was served as soon as we got there. obviously, they were just waiting for us to arrive to start the feast. It consisted of smoked fish, ensalada of radish and apples, pork menudo, some steamed veggies but to my family, it was the best meal ever... we were soooo hungry!

Cebu Pacific's Zero fare

Yup! Now Cebu Pacific has a zero fare for both their domestic and international routes. Booking period is from May 15 to 18 and availment is from June 9 to Dec. 31, 2008.

So, unlike Air Asia where you only go to KL or Kota Kinabalu from Clark Airport, Cebu Pac has the advantage of getting you to HK, Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam), Bangkok, Singapore, Hanoi (vietnam), Kaoshiung (Taiwan), Macau, Jakarta, Shanghai, Taipei, and Xiamen. It also flies from the NAIA 1 (unfortunately) so you don't have to travel all the way to Clark.

Let's go!

Want Free Airline Tickets? Check These Out!

I've received notice that both AirAsia and Jetstar Asia are promoting their sale.

Air Asia will give out free tickets to any of their international Routes. If you're coming from Clark, the places you can go to are Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur, both in Malaysia. However, you have to book the tickets from May 14 to 16, and avail of it next year between Jan. 12 and April 30, 2009. Well, if we can get those tickets free, then why won't we take it huh?

Jetstar Asia, on the other hand, has a buy 2 take 1 promo. You'd have to book and buy your tickets between 13 - 19 May and avail of it between 1 - 30 Jun 2008. Of course, there should be a minimum of 3 persons travelling at the same time.

Well, gotta go! I've got to get hold of some of those too.

Heard of Anawangin?

Have you heard of Anawangin? I have. Its a campsite in Zambales on a beach with a campsite. From the pictures in the internet, it looks like a really nice place. Anwyay, we're going there to stay on May 24 to 25. here's our IT:

Day 1 (May 24)
12:00mn Assembly @ mcdo eastwood
1:00am ETD San Antonio, Zambales
4:00am ETA Brgy. Pundakit
5:00am ETD Anawangin Beach
6:00am ETA Anawangin Beach
Free time
12:00nn Lunch
1-5pm Free time
6:00pm Dinner
8:00pm Socials

Day 2 (May 25)
5:00am Wake-up Call
5:30am ETD Capones Island
6:00am ETA Capones Island
7:00am ETD Anawangin Beach
7:30am ETA Anawangin Beach, Breakfast
9:00am ETD Brgy. Pundakit
10:00am ETA Brgy. Pundakit
Shower
12:00nn Lunch
3:00pm ETD Manila
7:00pm ETA Manila
8:00pm Home Sweet Home

Cost:
Min. 15 person Php2,000
Inclusive of: All Transportation (VICE-VERSA), 5 meal
(Sat breakfast - Sun Lunch), Camping Fee, Capones
Trip, Tent.

For those of you who'd like to join, let me know. I'll refer you to our organizer. I'll post pictures here after the trip.

PAL Express Air

Cebu Pacific's new competitor in the Budget Airline industry is PAL Express Air. It's maiden flight was last May 5, to Caticlan, Aklan - the gateway to Boracay. Why do you suppose they have chosen to fly to Caticlan? To me, it is probably to tell Cebu Pacific (which happens to be their neck and neck competitor) that they intend to regain the throne in the industry. Well, it's about time you guys!

I'm pretty excited about it. In fact today, we're planning to go to Busuanga using this airline. Earlier on, we were planning to go to Montemar but opted to go to the Anawangin Camp in Zambales. But, since I got this email from Mabuhay Miles about the new airline, we're considering to change our plans. Well, I'll let you in on the developments. It's getting closer to the opening of class and we need to have 1 more trip to celebrate Ikee's birthday.

Off To The Island! - Hilton Head SC

I and my family love to travel. Why? Because it makes spending time together more special. What are some ways to having a great family vacation? Here are some tips:

1. Consider what each one wants. Some of the worst vacations we've ever had in the past happened when not everyone's interest was catered to. Like, someone in our family likes going to the beach but hates the sun. Gee! That's tough isn't it? Oh, don't laugh now because that person would be me. Yup, I hate the sunlight because it makes my head ache unbearably. My mother-in-law doesn't like to swim but loves to bask, my daughter is a fish - she swims like one at least. My husband likes to play badminton and basketball. When you have a family like mine, it would be best to consider Hilton Head in South Carolina. Their activities are so varied that everyone will have something to do there.

2. Cost. Unless you are one of those people whose money is more than there is in a bank's vault at any given day, chances are that you're like me. I love going to places but don't like spending too much. You'd have to scout around for promotional sales in the airline companies (here the budget airline is Cebu Pacific and others), hotel, or seek destinations that don't cost too much. For instance, when we were in Hong Kong, we opted to go to museums which, aside from the fact that my daughter and I love those, they cost so cheap. If you're in the US, consider the Hilton Head S.C. and check their website. Hilton Head is a property managment service. They have promotional sales every now and then. What's more, even without the sale, their properties for rent can go as low 1,000 USD for a whole month not to mention that because you're renting a home, that would mean you can cook and be able to save more.

The first time we rented a home in Baguio was in 2003. I didn't quite like the idea at first but it turned out very well and very cheap that I had suggested to rent one every year. I believe it's the cheaper alternative to a hotel. On top of that, a rented property would be cozy unlike a hotel room that so impersonal.

3. Family Activities. While it is a must to have individual preferences served, it is equally important to have activities where everyone can enjoy in. For us, when we were in Batangas, we rented a boat and went to a place where there were lots of fish. We went for a snorkel, while my mother in law threw pieces of bread to attract the creatures to go near us. It was really great. At Hilton Head, people can go dolphin watching or play a round of golf. It doesn't really matter what you do just as long as you're together.

4. Take plenty of candid pictures. It's all about memories. But that would be in the future. However, when you take pictures and view them on tv or on a laptop the same day, you can't really avoid having fun. Great views would make for a perfect background. Hilton Head S.C. has beautiful, beautiful spots that should make your pictures more interesting. One thing about pictures is that it should tell a story to the viewer so take it to make your viewers feel they are there.

5. Consider the weather. Whether going to the beach or to the mountainside, the weather forecasts have to be checked. Too cold or too hot weather can ruin your trip. The advantage of Hilton Head is that the weather is neither too hot nor too cold to have a vacation.

Really, considering all these tips, Hilton Head would be a perfect place to go. Their website has these information and more. You can reach them through their email, fax or phone which are found in the site. It is easy to check whether a property is available for you on your desired dates and if not, it will show which dates are free. They even have a map for you to use to go there and when you get there.

When we go to the US in December, I'll probably want to spend a few days there.

Holiday on a Budget

So, you want to go on a holiday but you think you haven't saved enough? Here're some tips to help you have that trip at a low cost:

1. Plan out a realistic budget.
Perhaps you've saved some money just for a holiday or if you're getting it from a bonus, identify how much it is. Whatever amount you can spare or can afford to use for your trip is your budget.

2. Identify the place you would like to visit and how long you'd like to stay there. This should be done way ahead of time.

3. Depending on the place you would like to visit, make the details of your budget. Your major costs are transportation, hotel/lodging, food. Will you have to ride the plane, boat or bus? If you're taking your own vehicle,find out how far the place is from where you are and make an estimate of your gasoline expense based on how many kilometers (or miles) per liter your car is able to run. Your formula should be km/liter / distance in kilometers x price per liter.

set a budget for lodging. A hostel or budget hotel would be your best bet. Or, you might know someone who you can stay with. Just be sure to contribute to the expenses in the home where you are staying. That way your hosts will not be burdened by your presence.

Make a budget for food. Count in all meals including snacks that you need to take.

4. Visit forums such as virtualtourist.com or travelblog.org and ask questions about the place you want to go to. I have been a member of virtualtourist for more than 2 years now and I must say that it has been very useful in planning for our vacations. Use the power of the internet and you'll find that you can actually get useful tips from bloggers and members of organizations such as those I have mentioned earlier.

5. Check out vacation packages, fares, hotels, and other things from websits such as expedia.com, hotels.com asiarooms.com or asiatravel.com. These so far are the best places to get more information on expenses you might incur for the trip. Hostels are the best places for budget travellers. I've tried Hostelworld.com and they've done a wonderful job in recommending hostels.

6. Walk your way around. Try walking instead of using a cab. Get hold of a map to identify and cluster the places that interest you. When you do need to ride, try the train or bus.

7. Get into culture. This could be the cheapest way to learn about a place and not spend so much. Experiment on local things such as restaurants that serve local cuisine or visit villages, etc.

8. Stick to your budget. The most common pitfall of a budget traveller is being an impulsive buyer. Set aside money for all costs and try to work around that budget.

9. Go with a group. When you are with other people, you are able to split the bill with them. Some people on virtualtourist get other people to join them in their trips.

Well, this is it for now. I'll edit this page as soon as I can. Goodnight all!

Travel Promotions Within the Philippines (Domestic)

For those budget travellers who are looking for low fares, the following airlines have promotional sales for this period:

Cebu Pacific Airlines
P1 seats for Cebu-Bacolod, Cebu-Butuan, Cebu-Iloilo, and Cebu-Cagayan. The promotion will run from April 26, 2008 to June 30, 2008 with both sale period and travel period on the said dates.

The airline is also offering P888 seats for its Cebu-Macau and Cebu-Taipei routes. The seat sale is from April 26 to 30, 2008 travel may be availed from May 1, 2008 until June 30, 2008.

Fare is non-refundable and exclusive of surcharges and government taxes.

Asian Spirit
9 Php for Manila-Busuanga, Busuanga-Manila, Manila-Boracay, Boracay-Manila, Cebu-Boracay or Boracay-Cebu. Get as low as PHP1,199 for Manila-Busuanga or PHP699 for Manila-Caticlan. Busuanga is your gateway to the Coron island in Palawan while Caticlan is your gateway to Boracay Island.

Sale Period is from April 20 to May 31, 2008 and travel period is from May 5 to Oct. 15 2008. For those who are new at travelling, this means that you can buy your tickets only during the sale period and use these tickets during the travel period only.