The Chocolate Hills of Bohol and ATV Tour

If you ask Filipinos what is the must see spot when visiting Bohol, there's not a chance that they will forget to say the Chocolate Hills. As It has been featured so many times in our textbooks when we are in grade school and high school and even tourism advertisements never forgets this place when promoting the Philippines. In short, this place has been an icon not only of Bohol but also the country as a whole.

How did we get there?
We met Kuya Bernie outside Tagbilaran Airport. He offers different tours in Bohol and one of the tour he has is Tagbilaran tour (I'll make another blog for it). He has a van for hire which can accommodate 5-7 persons. He also told us that he has another service which can hold up to 12 persons. What's nice about his tour is you can collaborate with him in terms of the places you want to visit. You can eliminate sites which you want to skip and replace it with another. As for our Tagbilaran City Tour, he only asks for 2,500 Pesos which includes a trip to our hotel in Panglao at the end of our tour. Note: entrance fees of each places are not included. Having said that, it is still pretty convenient and cheap than other tours I saw. You may contact Bernie at 0999-929-8445

Going back, the Chocolate Hills latest count already reached 1,776 and are widely spread in different barangay in Bohol merely in Tagbilaran and Carmen. Each cone-shape hill ranges from 30-50 meters in height. The hills are covered with grass which turns brown during dry season which makes the hills more look like chocolates. For viewing, one may visit a government-owned and operated resort called "Chocolate Hills Complex" which is located in Carmen, Bohol. It is no more than 1 1/2 hours away from the airport and has a 50 pesos per person entrance fee.

Just a portion of the hills you can see on top

Chocolate Hills Complex

The site is a converted two chocolate hills transformed into a complex. The complex has a restaurant, swimming pool, grotto of the Virgin Mary, a conference room and a view deck. In order to reach the view deck, one must climb up the 200+ steps. So, better prep up those sleeping thighs. Nevertheless, a 360 degrees scenic view of the hills awaits once you reach the top.

It was tiring but worth it!

View from the view deck

Good job guys!

Time for some groupfie!

(Side Trip) Chocolate Hills ATV Guided Tour

At the foot of Chocolate Hills Complex, there's a vicinity which offers ATV tour near the chocolate hills. A 30 minutes ride costs 450 Pesos which includes a helmet and a guide that will go along with you. Note: make sure you have extra clothes when trying this activity. The ride tends to be dusty when dry season and muddy when rainy season.

One of the stop over in the site

Photo op at 3 sisters hill :)

Breakdown of Expenses:
Tagbilaran Tour - 2,500 PhP (good for 5 pax)
Entrance fee to Chocolate Hills Complex - 50 PhP per pax
ATV for 30 mins - 450 PhP
Food - **.**

Flowboarding at Flow House Manila

Calling all thrill seekers out in there! A new water activity has set and waiting for you to be tested! Have you already tried wakeboarding? Surfing? Skimboarding? Yeah? Hmm... how about flowboarding? Not yet? Well, flowboarding is the new hype in town which gives waterboard sports a new kind of face. Flowboarding combines the look of surfing, the tricks of skateboarding, and the boards of wakeboarding yet instead of doing it outdoor, flowboarding are being manipulated/controlled by mechanics. The said sport has been evolving since the 80's but been an underdog since the market which offers this sport is just limited as they are only seen on some resorts, cruise ships, etc. But worry no more because Flow House Manila brought it to the metro and they are now operating!

How to get there?
Flow Hose Manila is located at Molino Boulevard corner Masaito Drive in Bacoor City. If you are going to commute, you may take a commercial van in MOA having a signboard of Paliparan-Molino. Just inform the driver to drop you off at Flow House Manila as it is just along the road. Just in case the driver do not know where Flow House Manila is (since it's just new in the area), just tell them to drop you at V-Central Mall along Molino Boulevard. V-Central Mall is just beside Flow House Manila. Travel time is maximum of an hour.

Option 2: Take a bus at Coastal Mall terminal having a signboard going to Dasmarinas. Then tell the bus conductor to drop you at St. Dominic College of Asia. From there, take a tricycle going to Flow House Manila.

As I am blogging this, Flow House Manila is still in its development period. The area hasn't fully furnished yet like the shopping mall and stuff but the flowboarding area as well as the bar are fully functional. As for their rates and fees, flowboarders will have to spend PhP 650 per hour per head which is inclusive of entrance fee, board rental, instructor, and pool use. For non riders there is an entrance fee of Php 300 which is also a consumable value in the bar/restaurant. Both flow riders and non flow riders can use the pool without time limit. Just kindly refer on the schedule below for the operating hours of Flow House Manila:

Monday � Friday: 10 AM to 12 MN
Saturday � Sunday: 8 AM to 12 MN

The pool side

The bar and restaurant

The flowboarding activity area

Then my family

There are three kinds of position you can do when trying out this activity. First is the laying down position, second is where you are sitting on top of the board and the most difficult one is the stand up position of course. Tip: Flowboarding is considered a sport so basically you will have to keep riding to improve. I fell so many times (surfers called it wipe out) before I was able to do the stand up position. Also always listen to the instructor's advice. They're expert and only wanted to help us to enjoy the experience fully. Do not afraid to get wipe out because the material used by Flow House Manila is similar to that used in trampolines. The ride surface is ready to absorb impacts and will have you bouncing back for more. Yeah I got hurt to some of my wipe out but its tolerable and nothing to worry about.

Lookin' cool right?

Picking some advice from my instructor

Then I let go of the rope and started surfing...

After a minute or less, I got swipe out. lol!

As per what to wear... hmmm there is no dress code in Flow House Manila, but I strongly recommend a boardshort and a rash guard or any comfortable beach clothes. Also bring your own towel and extra clothes. Just anything light and be prepare to get wet!

Flow House Manila also offers not only flowboarding but also a place where you and your friends can enjoy a great drinking experience as its bar has wide range of beverages - Alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Who wouldn't enjoy a glass of Jack Daniels after a nice flow ride huh?

This is me chillin'

So, what you waitin' for? Grab a friend now and experience flowboarding at Flow House Manila!

Flow House Manila
Molino Boulevard corner Masaito Drive, Bacoor, Cavite
Dial 09985545035 for reservations.
Monday � Friday: 10 AM to 12 MN
Saturday � Sunday: 8 AM to 12 MN

Breakdown of Expenses:
Transportation: Below 100 Pesos from Manila (one way)
Flowboarder: 650 Pesos per hour per head
Non rider: 300 Pesos

Travel Highlights Of The Year 2014

Before 2015 kicks in, join me as I take a look back on some of the destinations I've been to this 2014. It has been a great year for me and to my travel buddies as we've unlocked and explored new places -- specifically in the Philippines. Although I hadn't worn my travelling shoes 'til the end of the quarter (due to some circumstances), I am still thankful and grateful for the 9 months of non-stop expedition.

Travel Highlights...

The Island of Camiguin

My 2014 expedition started in the region of Mindanao. The province of Camiguin was the first stop in our itinerary. Our group stayed there for 2 days in which let us to visit the beautiful naked island of Camiguin called White Island, the famous Sunken Cemetery, Guiob Church Ruins and Katibawasan Falls. We also found time to relax in Ardent Spring Resort -- a known hot spring resort in Camiguin.

Related Blogposts:
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/01/white-island-of-camiguin.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/01/sunken-cemetery-and-guiob-church-ruins-of-camiguin.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/02/ardent-hibok-hibok-hot-spring-resort-camiguin.html

Water Rafting in Misamis Oriental

I considered myself as an adventurous type of traveler. Thrilling activities never fails to excite me. That's why I was very excited when I got to visit Cagayan de Oro of Misamis Oriental because the said province is widely known for water rafting activity. Despite the bad weather during the day of our actual water rafting, we're still blessed and lucky as the authorities didn't stopped us. The stormy weather gave an additional thrill to the experience and it was a day to remember.

Related Blogpost:
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/02/white-water-rafting-cagayan-de-oro-cdo.html

Island Hoping in Oriental Mindoro

Puerto Galera is not just about beach bumming and night life because it also showcases moving activities and amazing views. Along the shore of White Beach you'll find people or agents that offer island tours going to Tamaraw Island and Virgin Island, and cross island tours on the neighboring islands and islets. I've also experienced snorkeling while being dragged by a bangka (small boat). Sounds crazy huh?

Related Blogposts:
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/03/white-beach-of-puerto-galera-oriental-mindoro.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/03/tamaraw-falls-and-virgin-island-beach-oriental-mindoro.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/03/island-hopping-snorkeling-caving-in-puerto-galera-oriental-mindoro.html

Back to Basic Stay in Camarines Norte

Calaguas Group of Islands, Camarines Norte is notable for crystal clear beaches and stunning views. But just like what they've said... you can't have it all. Because in Calaguas, electricity still haven't reach the islands. Phone signals are even hard to find there either. But again, who needs all of those if you have a long, wide & bluish beach water and fine sand waiting for you, right?

Related Blogposts:
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/04/maculabo-island-of-calaguas-camarines-norte.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/04/tinaga-island-of-calaguas-camarines-norte.html

Vigan ala Metro Vigan Inn

A free tour in Vigan along with other bloggers was another experience to remember. Thank you again to Metro Vigan Inn for an all expense paid tour in the historic place of Vigan. I've got to crossed out another item on my bucket list when I finally saw and walked on the marvelous street of Calle Crisologo. Roaming around Vigan riding a calesa also made my visit a special one.

Related Blogposts:
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/06/metro-vigan-inn-vigan.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/06/metro-vigan-cafe-of-vigan-ilocos-sur.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/06/metro-vigan-inn-calesa-tour-in-vigan-tourist-spots.html

Ilocandia Tour with Friends

A month after my visit in Vigan through Metro Vigan Inn, I came back again along with my friends. That time, we went to tour all possible spots in Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte and not just Vigan. We did church hopping, museum tours, sand boarding, nature tripping, beach bumming and a whole lot more!

Related Blogposts:

http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/07/paoay-church-ilocos-norte.html

http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/07/sand-dunes-ilocos-norte.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/08/malacanang-of-north-paoay-ilocos-norte.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/08/kapurpurawan-rock-formation-burgos-ilocos-norte.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/08/bangui-windmills-bangui-ilocos-norte.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/08/tourist-destinations-in-ilocos-norte.html

Kayaking in the Islands of El Nido

El Nido of Palawan is a world renowned tourist destination. It has been featured to different travel magazines, travel channels, movies and blogs. And I felt very blessed because this year, I was able to visit and explored the islands and islets of El Nido. No wonder why tourists of this place fall in love with it because I, myself, fall for its beauty and grand.

Related Blogposts:
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/07/island-hopping-and-tours-in-el-nido-palawan.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/07/el-nido-island-hopping-combination-tour-c-and-d.html
http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/07/el-nido-palawan-island-hopping-combination-tour-a-and-b.html

Final Thoughts...

2014 has been a pretty and amazing year for me. It was filled with memorable moments where I met new people. People whom some of them turned into friends.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your support on what I do. Thank you for reading and sharing my blog posts (even if it is full of wrong grammar hahaha). Thank you also for commenting on and sharing your own experience, stories and tips. I really appreciate them all.

By the way, I've already booked flights for 2015 so expect another year of exploration on Geejay Travel Log.

Cheers!
Geejay of Geejay Travel Log

Bangui Windmills of Bangui Ilocos Norte

Windmill is a machine which uses wind energy to generate electricity or extract groundwater. Here in the Philippines, we also have our own windmill farm and it can be found in the municipality of Bangui in Ilocos Norte. It is also said to be the first power generating windmill farm in Southeast Asia. The project was named NorthWind Bangui Bay Project (oftenly called as the Bangui Windmills).

How did we get there?
The hotel we stayed-in offers a complete Ilocandia tour (Ilocos Norte and Sur). As for our group of 5, we paid 2,990 pesos/pax (price varies depends on the head count) which includes a private aircon van transportation to Laoag-Vigan-Pagudpud, a hotel accommodation for 2 days and 2 nights, a daily set of breakfast, entrance fees, toll fees, driver's meal, and as well as airport transfers. Airfare is not included. Oops, before I forgot, the name of the hotel is UKL Ever Hotel and it is located in Laoag City. It is also 15 minutes away from the airport.

Sun down but the beauty of this site still not fading

Going back, there are different stations of windmills in Bangui, Ilocos Norte. There are Phase 1 and Phase 2 which are spread along and facing the coastal line of South China Sea. Bangui Windmills was said to be providing 40% of source power in the province of Ilocos Norte. That is why the government is now on their feet constructing Phase 3 that will add more windmills and will generate of course more power.

As always... group shot!

I envy this local...

So lucky to visit this place!!!

Its getting dark now

Though the main purpose of this project is to practice and utilize renewable energy sources such as the wind, the site itself has become a tourist attraction as well. It is mainly one of the reason why tourism in Ilocos has boomed. Who wouldn't be amaze to see those towering electric-fan-like structures? Seeing 20 windmills in Phase 1 lined up and having a size of 70-metre (230 ft) high each is such a stunning scene to witness. Standing in front of these windmills makes me feel like an ant. Plus, not to mention that it is situated on a beach front. Imagine walking on the shore while waves and wind splashes on your body. Refreshing!

There is no entrance fee when visiting the area. Everyone is invited and go near to the windmills. However, going inside it is restricted. There are also stalls in the area where you can buy souvenirs such as keychains, mini-replica of the windmill and t-shirts.

naahhhh...

Souvenirs they sell in the area

Calaguas Islands of Camarines Norte [featuring Tinaga Island]

Situated in the northern most part of the Bicol Region, lies the picturesque paradise of Calaguas. If Camarines Sur is known for Wakeboarding and Surfing, Camarines Norte is known for its unspoiled, turquoise water and white sand beaches. Calaguas is a term used to define a group of islands in the province of Camarines Norte which includes Guintinua Island, Maculabo Island, the famous Tinaga Island and other minor islands and islets.

As for this blog post, I'll be featuring the Tinaga Island also known as the "Mahabang Buhangin" which translates as long sand.

How to get there?
One way to go there is by bus. There are several bus lines which serves transport route going to Paracale. Superlines in Cubao, Quezon City is one of those bus lines. They have a direct route to Paracale but the last bus trip is only until 7:45 PM. If you miss the trip to Paracale (which happened to us), do not worry because you may take a bus going to Daet. Last trip of air conditioned bus is until 10:45 PM. The fare is 515 pesos per head and travel time is about 8 to 9 hours. Just inform the bus conductor to drop you at Talobatib at the town of Labo.  Alight at Talobatib, there are buses passing through it with a signboard of Paracale. Ride one of those buses. Fare is 25 pesos and it will take another 1 hour of bus ride.  As you reach Paracale, you need to hire a tricycle to take you at Paracale Port. It is only 10-15 minutes ride. Fare is 15 pesos per head. There's a wet market near Paracale Port so if you need to buy something like meat or fish as your food on the island, you may ask your tricycle driver if you can passed by the market first before going to the Port. From the port, boatmen of Paracale awaits that can take you to islands of Calaguas.

If you are not fond of super long travel by bus, another way is you can book a flight to Naga City and then take a bus going to Daet. It is approximately 2 hours of travel. Then from Daet take another bus going to Paracale and then follow the instructions above.

Boat ride going to Tinaga Island of Calaguas!

As we landed on Paracale Port, we were stopped by locals to go to the island of Calaguas. I believe they were officials of Paracale. It is because they established an association for the boatmen wherein rules are being implemented.The said association is just a week old and they facilitate the ratings of boat rental in the area:

Paracale Tourist Boat Operator Assn (PTBOA) Overnight Rating:

• 4 Persons below > 3,000 PhP
• 5-7 Persons > 4,000 PhP
• 8-10 Persons > 6,000 PhP
• 11-15 Persons > 8,000 PhP
• 16-20 Persons > 12,000 PhP
• 21 Persons > 15,000 PhP

We already contracted/hired a local boatman 3 weeks before our said trip and agreed to get his service at the price of 4,000 PhP for our group of 9 persons. The reason why they stopped us is because for a group of 9 persons we did got a boat in a low-ball (based on the new ratings stated above). But they can't blame us, we had an agreement before even before they've established their association. So in the end, they let us passed through and sail to Calaguas! Our contact person is Kuya Nelson (0909 525 9821) and the name of the boatman who toured us was Kuya Rolly. Well, I am not really in favor of the new established association. The price is too high compared to the old ratings but what else can I do? Good thing we had booked a boat earlier.

If you think that the long ride ends at the bus, well sorry to say but its not. In order to reach the Tinaga Island (Calaguas Islands most popular destination) you'll be spending 2 hours of boat ride. Hep Hep Hep... but you'll be entertained by the islands and islets along the way. Splash of water will also wake you up if ever you'll fall asleep. Yes, the boat ride tends to be bumpy and wavy so be ready to get wet along the way and wear a life vest for safety precaution.

An island along the way

HEAVEN on earth!

Every body were exhausted due to the lack of sleep and long travel but all of it were paid off and gone instantly as we come near Calaguas' Tinaga Island. We were all smiling and just stunned on its beauty. Now I know why it is called "Mahabang Buhangin" or long sand. It is because Tinaga Island's beach shore is a long stretch of fine white sand. It is actually a powdery white sand (they say, it is comparable to the sand of Boracay). I find the place perfect for beach bumming and camping.

Presenting, the Mahabang Buhangin Beach of Tinaga Island - Calaguas

After we've unloaded our things off the boat, we looked for the person who's in-charge in the nipa huts in the beach front. Then we met Tatay Bert of Bert's Calaguas Island Resort. He is the owner of one of the resort in the island, he owns nipa huts and provides tent rentals. There is also a Comfort room and a small convenient store in his area. There is no hotel yet in the islands of Calaguas. Visitors can either rent a hut (open-type or closed-type nipa hut),stay in tent, or just beach bum under the sun and moon!

Bert's Calaguas Island Resort Rating:

• Open type nipa hut > 500 PhP
• Closed type nipa hut (with 1 elevated room like) > 500 PhP
• Tent (2-3 persons) > 300 PhP
• Tent (4-5 persons) > 400 PhP
• Tent Corkage > 100 PhP per tent
• Comfort Room > 10 PhP per basin
• Ihawan > 50 PhP
• Entrance fee > 100 PhP per pax

Since we only have 1 tent, we planned to rent 2 more tents when we reach the island. But since the price of a Closed-type nipa hut is close enough if we rent a 4 persons tent, we decided to get the Closed-type nipa hut instead. It is more spacious and can accommodate our group very well. We also rented an "ihawan" as we bought raw liempo and hotdogs.

The Open-type and Closed-type nipa huts at Bert's Calaguas Resort

So after we changed on our beach attire (whut?), we started to cooked our food, prepared our lunch, we ate together, then rest just a little. What's next? Well of course, get ourselves wet and enjoyed this whole island experience!

Kulitan moment in the island :)

Trying to do something out of that sand :)

If I were to to describe the place, it is plain yet captivating. Plain in a way that you can only see nipa huts, few cottages, no electricity, trees, plants, mountains on both ends of the island, white sand and clear water. Captivating at the same time because of the same reasons. Who wouldn't fall in love with this place where one can enjoy splashing into the turquoise beach water, walk on that long stretch of fine white sand, and sit back while watching the sunset? Now tell me!!!

Time to relax

The long and white parking lot of Tinaga Island

Calm water and a great weather

Beachfront of Tinaga

By the way, there were no signal in the island (well, for Globe users like us. Smart? I don't know) but who needs signal? Why do I spend my time on my phone and surfing the net with all the view in front me, right? I'm in paradise! By having said that, with all the good stuff around me, of course I also took this chance to have a photoshoot with my modelesque friends :)

Survivor campaign ad Jing

Pola and her perfectly sun kissed skin

Still looking sharp here Anna :)

We've enjoyed too much swimming on the beach and taking group photos and selfies when we realized it's already getting dark. So some of us decided to get-off of the water to prepare our dinner. We had "Adobong Manok" and cooked another batch of liempo for dinner. Swimming makes us all tired and hungry so it was a chaos. Most of us ate using our hands to feel the back-to-basic vibes of this island vacation.

Sunset at Calaguas is priceless

After the war dinner, we had some chat while others took a shower. Then all went to sleep as we need to charge up. It has been a long, tiring yet super fun day. Plus, we still had another day at Calaguas ahead of us.

I set my alarm clock at 6 AM because I want to explore the other side of the island before we leave. Along with Mae and Edward, we went on one of the hill at the end part of the island. There is a 25 pesos fee if you want to trek up to the hill. The trek is pretty easy and would only take 5-10 minutes in order to reach its top. On top of it, you'll see the Mahabang Buhangin in bird's eye view. You'll surely appreciate more the beauty of this island. This is definitely a must try activity.

Other resort in the Island

He only used spoon to do this...

Mahabang Buhangin Beach on Bird's eye view

Neighboring island of Tinaga

When we went back to our hut, breakfast is already being served. So we jump along with the others and took our breakfast. It was already 8am when we bid farewell to the beautiful Tinaga Island of Calaguas as we will be heading next to Maculabo Island - another major island of Calaguas. But before that, we had a photo op with Tatay Bert and his family. They were so nice and hospitable, and treats all their guest with respect.

Just before we leave the island

Breakdown of Expenses (For this whole trip. Tinaga Island + Maculabo Island):
Bus (Superline: Manila to Daet) - 515.00 Pesos per pax
Bus (Talobatib to Paracale) - 25.00 Pesos per pax
Tricycle (Paracale to Paracale Port) - 15.00 Pesos per pax
Environmental Fee - 10.00 Pesos per pax
Boat (Paracale Port to Calaguas - Tinaga Island, 2 way) - 4,000.00 Pesos / 9 pax = 445.00 Pesos
Sidetrip (Tinaga Island to Maculabo Island) - 500.00 Pesos / 9 pax = 56.00 Pesos
Closed type Nipa Hut - 500.00 Pesos / 9 pax = 56.00 Pesos
Tent Corkage - 100.00 Pesos / 9 pax = 12.00 Pesos
Entrance Fee (Bert's Calaguas Resort - 150.00 Pesos per pax
Ihawan - 50.00 Pesos / 9 pax = 6.00 Pesos
Trek on the other side of Calaguas - 25.00 Pesons per pax
CR - **.**
Food - **.**

Click here to read the 2nd part of my Calaguas Adventure featuring Maculabo Island