[DIY] A Ride to the Crater of Mt Pinatubo

Mt. Pinatubo is situated in the section of Luzon called Cabusilan Mountain Range also known as the Zambales Mountains. It became a mainstream right after its major eruption back in 1991. That eruption was labeled as the second largest terrestrial eruption of the 20th century next to Novarupta where its effects were devastating and felt worldwide. Now, although Mt. Pinatubo and areas surrounding it is still covered by lahar deposits, it has also become a tourist attraction of the country because of the wonderful landscape it has become. Adventure seekers, nature lovers and landscape photographers will surely enjoy exploring the site most specially its crater part.

How to get there?
Me and my friends goal was to ride our mountain bikes from the jump off point of Mt. Pinatubo up to its crater. But do not worry as this blog will still show you on how to get there by commute/public transportation. Our journey starts as we arrive at the bus terminal of Victory Liner in Pasay. We chose Victory Liner because they do not charge carrying cargo such as bikes. You can take any bus that will pass by Capas Junction. Buses going to Baguio, Dagupan, Pangasinan and Tarlac are some of the bus route that will take you there. We took the bus going to Dagupan and just told the bus conductor to drop us at Capas (near the Capas Municipal Hall). We then paid 180 pesos each which was a 3-hour bus ride. As we alight at Capas, we then started pedaling our bikes in search of a hotel to stay in. The next day, we started pedaling again going to the Tourism office of Mt Pinatubo for registration. As for you, take a tricycle in Capas to take you directly to Santa Juliana tourism office. It will be a long ride as well so fare will be most likely 300 pesos, one way.

On our way to the tourism Office

The registration area

Satellite Municipal Tourism Office
Tourists who wanted to see Mt. Pinatubo must register first at the tourism office and settle the fees below. By the way, these are mandatory fees and you'll not be able to pass through the security of Mt Pinatubo without the approval of this office. Note: The office is open as early as 6am and closes by 10am. Meaning to say, visitors must settle a ride going to Mt Pinatubo before the office closes. Visitors who'll not be able to book a ride before that time will have to try their luck the next day. Aw.

4x4 Jeepney Ride - 3,000 pesos (good for 5 pax)
Local Guide Fee - 500 pesos
Registration/Conservation fee - 450 pesos/pax

For Reservation:
SATELLITE MUNICIPAL TOURISM OFFICE
Ms Mai - 0947-3912134
capastourism.com

Signing to a waiver...

Even we have our bikes and intend to ride it all through out from the tourism office, we were still obligated to rent the 4x4 jeepney. It is a policy that visitors should be accompanied by a jeep when visiting the crater. So basically the 4x4 jeepney serves as our convoy.

Approximately, it was a 1 1/2 hour jeepney ride packed with breathtaking views. I didn't mind the striking heat of the sun because of what my eyes saw during the trip. I never thought that the destruction of 1991 eruption will result to an art-like landscape now. You can even instruct the driver to stop anywhere along the road if you intend to take photos of the views as well as the locals and aetas that lives there. The aetas who lives there are really friendly, you'll see them smiling and waving their hands as you passed by them. Tip: Smile back, ok?

Can you feel the heat? hehe

More visitors that day

This way will lead you to the village of aetas

Reached the point where we have to lift and roll our bikes

After the bumpy with river crossing ride, you'll reach the point where will lead you to the crater of the mountain. In this case, you'll have to walk. I saw a sign that says, it will be just a 1km trek to reach the top. More or less it will be just a 20 minutes trek. In our case, it took us 30-40 mins as we have to lift our bikes up to the crater. Haha. I felt sorry for my bike because it was a hard one for her. I bumped her so many times and even scratched some of its part. Huhu. But nonetheless, as we've reached the top, it was all paid off. The fresh air, the crater, the view... it was a site to see! Time for more photo op! Note: There are comfort rooms in the area. Tip: Packed your own food and water. Yes, there are stalls on your way up however they sold it like 3-4 times of its original price.

Finally! Our goal!

So calm... so relaxing...

Thanks "Kerida" for not letting me down :)

Time for some groupfie...

...and selfies as well :)

We stayed in the crater for an hour  and it was already 3pm when we decided to go down again. We were excited on our way down because it will be an epic ride for our mountain bikes. We were like jets with our speed. The 4x4 jeep who convoyed us even had a hard time keeping with our pace. We reach the tourism office by 5:30pm and went all the way back to the terminal with our bikes.

Travelling and biking... this is life!!!

Yup, there are streams along the way

And rivers too!

More 4x4 jeepneys

Thank you Mt Pinatubo for this epic ride!

It was indeed a memorable bike ride for each of us. Mt. Pinatubo surely left a mark on our lives which we will never forget.

Breakdown of expenses:
Bus (Pasay Terminal - Capas Junction) - 180 pesos
Tricycle (Capas - Tourism Office) - **.**
4x4 Jeepney ride - 3,000 pesos
Local guide - 500 pesos
Registration/Conservation fee - 450 pesos
Tricycle (Tourism Office - Capas) - **.**

Bus (Tarlac Bus Terminal - Pasay) - 211 pesos

Food - *.**

European Tour in Vikings of SM Jazz

Vikings is a well known buffet restaurant in the Philippines for great tasting food as well as luxurious design of interiors. It does not only targets the diners taste buds but also delight their eyes using elegant art pieces and fixtures. That's why I feel so honored and privileged when they invited me AGAIN to dine on one of their new branches which is located in SM Jazz, Makati.

Welcome to Vikings - SM Jazz

Vikings has already established their name in terms of serving quality, fresh and well-replenished food. So for this visit, one of the things I am looking forward to see was what will be the theme of this new branch of theirs. And again, Vikings live up with their reputation. Vikings of SM Jazz is well presented, classy, elegant and cozy with its European theme and designs. My girlfriend and I felt like we were transported to Italy and France when we stepped inside Vikings. It's like we're being toured in Europe with delighting food surrounding us.

Trip to Europe!

Look how clean this place is!

One of the hardest and exciting part of dining in Vikings is how will you be able to taste if not all, most, of the cuisines they serve? Well, I do not know either. Having 50++ or even more dishes they serve, I have no idea how an individual can taste all of it. A great problem to solve huh?

As usual SM Jazz Vikings serves international cuisines ranging from Japanes, Korean, Chinese, Italian, Indian and even Filipino cuisine. Yes, our very own dishes. They serve here bibingka, puto bumbong and a whole lot more. It's a guarantee that you'll be able to satisfied your taste buds with their huge variety of food. 

Our very own desserts

Now enough the reading part and scroll down to see the real deal. :]

Who's up for some pasta?

Dishes here are all well presented

My favorite section in Vikings

Who like to eat some Korean food?

Nice huh?

Some good vibe words from Vikings

They also have DIY corners

Look at the gigantic piece of art

Medium rare please!

What are you looking in there Baby?

Vikings Buffet Rates/Prices

Weekday Lunch

Kids between 3ft to 4ft || P188

Kids between 4ft to 4.5ft || P388

Adults || P688

Weekday Dinner

Kids between 3ft to 4ft || P288

Kids between 4ft to 4.5ft || P588

Adults || P888

Weekend & Holiday Lunch and Dinner

Kids between 3ft to 4ft || P388

Kids between 4ft to 4.5ft || P688

Adults || P888

** Kids below 3 feet are FREE of charge

Once again, thank you Vikings for inviting me!

And if you think that 888 for a dinner or lunch is quite expensive then think again. With Vikings food variety which includes exquisite dishes such as lamb, steak & more and not to mention amazing service & ambiance well, I would say you're not over paying your dining experience and it is still "sulit".

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

The Bike Room of Catimar, Pasay

It has already been 3 months since the last time I went out of Manila and travel. Reason why is because I venture into a new hobby/sport which is kind of money-draining. I am now hook to biking... MTB to be exact. Well, it is my father who has been pushing me for quite some time now to try this activity as he himself is into this hobby (even at his age of 60). So I give in and gave it a try. Then one day, I find myself not travelling anymore because I am always out of money upgrading/purchasing bike parts and stuff.

So why am I telling this? As for this blog post, I am going to feature a shop for those who wanted to build their dream bikes. I want to help my readers who also wanted to try this activity. I think it is somehow relevant to the purpose of this blog... discovering places in PH (this time, helping folks who are bike enthusiasts). The name of the shop where I bought my built bike is "The Bike Room" in Cartimar, Pasay City.

Cartimar is a popular place if you're looking for class A and authentic shoes, clothing and pets (like dogs, cats, fishes, etc). But now it is also becoming a known place for cyclist and bike enthusiasts as bike shops starting to establish along the area. "The Bike Room" is one of those many bike shops in Cartimar and it is located at 2190 Leveriza St., Pasay City. What makes this shop differ from the other shop is, they only sell authentic bike and bike parts. So you'll not going to worry spending tons of your well-earned money guessing whether you're buying authentic items or not.

Another reason why I chose to feature this shop is because I owe this shop a lot. Why? How? Well, this is where I found my dream bike frame. Hahahaha. Yeah, I am assembling my dream bike during my visit coz I'm not fond of buying a whole bike. I want a customized one and frame is the most important part for me because it will state the whole look of my bike. That day, I've been looking to all of the bike shops in Cartimar finding the right frame for me and I found that frame at the Bike Room. I bought here my Merida Matts TFS XC 800 (Matted Version) frame for 13,000 PhP. I know it is quite expensive just for a frame but please don't judge me. Its original dre and it fits me well!

Here's my Merida Bike Frame I bought at the Bike Room

The area of Bike Room is a bit small but it is full of bike stuff so don't give up on looking for the item you're searching for as I found my frame still inside a sealed box. Also, the store is well ventilated with air-conditioner so you'll find it in no sweat! Most of the items here are in their fixed price but I still suggest that you ask the store owner for its last price. And I wish you a big goodluck on that part... coz she didn't gave me a discount despite my total purchase. Aw. But there's no hurt on trying. Who knows... she might give-in to your asking price.

Moreover, here's a quick tour at The Bike Room:

I saw a lot of top brand helmets on this shop

If you know what you want... just directly ask the store owner :)

They also sell biking outfits

For mountain bikers...

and for road bikers

Planning to build your dream bike?

Outside view of the shop

That's it! This will be the end point of my blog feature for The Bike Room. I suggest to visit the place for yourself if you're interested as well on bike stuff. Guaranteed, you'll find a whole lot of interesting and authentic items in this store.

Visit them now!

The Bike Room
2190 Leveriza St., Cartimar, Pasay City
For inquiries: (02) 551 2453 / (02) 551 6228 / 09178989021
If you come by, please tell the owner that you find the shop because of this blog. Please? Thank you!!

Cafe Mezzanine of Binondo, Manila

Chinatown in Binondo, Manila is renowned as the oldest china town in the world but aside from that, it is also known as one of the best spot if you're looking for some gastronomic adventure. The place is very ideal if you're into food tripping because Binondo, specifically Chinatown, has lots of restaurants in which one will surely delight his or her appetite. One of the restaurant I am referring to is the Cafe Mezzanine.

Located in the heart of Chinatown and on the busy street of Ongpin, Cafe Mezzanine is referred as a Volunteer Fireman's Coffee Shop. The place is a fireman's life inspired restaurant in which you'll see firemen's helmets decorated on the place and images of firefighting actions. But having said that, the place still has the cool and homey vibes that ensures customers' dinning satisfaction. Also, it is said to be that all revenues of Cafe Mezzanine is donated to Binondo Paco Fire Search and Rescue Brigade (as per CNN news). Gee, that's noble!

How to get there? 
There are so many ways going to Chinatown of Binondo but if you're going straight to Cafe Mezzanine, I suggest you take the MRT going to Central Station. Then from Central, take a jeep going to Quiapo. Just inform the jeepney driver to drop you at Binondo Church. Alight at Binondo Church, walk/take the road on its right side (right side if you are facing the church). Just keep walking until you see the Eng Bee Tin sign as Cafe Mezzanine is located on its 2nd floor.

It wasn't my first time in Binondo but this is my first time to eat at Cafe Mezzanine. I am excited with this visit because I heard a lot of great feedback regarding this restaurant. Not to mention that it has been featured in CNN as one of the best food spot in town. I am not familiar with Chinese dishes so we let Ate Kat decide on what we should eat (plus, it was her treat). Yes! Thanks Bes! :)

Fire awareness campaign mat. Nice!

The interior

I remember the Mcdo TVC when I saw them

Thanks Ate Kat! :)

In the end, it turned out to be a fiesta for the three of us because she ordered a lot! Here are some of the dishes we end up eating with...

Xiao Long Bao (10 pcs.) - 160 PhP

These are pretty delicious

Lo-mi - 115 PhP

Comfort food this rainy season

Soup No. 5 - 250 PhP
I didn't know if there are soup #1 - #4 but wht I know is, Soup #5 is not your ordinary soup. Why? Because it is made of bull's testes and/or penis. This is an exotic food in the country and said to be have an aphrodisiac properties.

Anyone?

Camaron Rebosado - 200 PhP

Lechon Kawali - 115 PhP
I don't know if they serve the dish just like what we've got but it was cold when they serve it in our table. However, it still does tastes great. Also, the pork's skin were crispy despite its coldness which is kind of interesting.

Not for people with high cholesterol :)

Forgot the name of this dish...

Kiampong - 48 PhP
This dish caught my attention. Nuts in a rice? Yes, it is unusual. That's also what I thought when I first ate it but it was actually great. It goes along well with the dishes above and even just by eating it alone. I enjoyed my Kianpong a lot.

Me and my officemates really had a blast and had an amazing time. Our first plan was to really have a food hopping in Binondo but Cafe Mezzanine mess it up. We ended up with bulky tummies. Cafe Mezzanine is another must visit place when in Binondo.