Inland Tour at Gigantes North: The Lighthouse and Bakwitan Cave

If you happen to read my blog post about our island hopping at Islas de Gigantes, I mentioned on it that we had an inland tour at Gigantes North (Norte). And as promised, here's my detailed entry about it. The inland tour isn't that grand compared to the island hopping but it was a good trip incase you still have some spare time to spent. The whole tour took us 4 hours including photo op which covers a visit to Gigantes North Island Lighthouse and Bakwitan Cave.

How did I got there?
Well Gigantes North is usually part of the island hopping tour at Islas de Gigantes. This is where most of the resorts are located so basically locals are familiar to the island. Kindly refer to this [link] to know more on how we got to Gigantes North. So to cut the story short, the resort we stayed-in was located at Gigantes North and we discovered about the inland tour of Norte from Kuya Kim which happens to be our island hopping tour guide. His brother, Kuya Glenn, offers tourists inland tour which costs 200 Pesos per head which in includes transportation by means of riding a habal-habal (motorcycle).

North Gigantes Island Lighthouse

We started our inland tour at six in the morning. Kuya Glenn picked us up at the resort along with his habal habal drivers. We got ecstatic when we saw them because each one of us had our own habal-habal and a driver. We were 9 in the group therefore we also have 9 motorcycles for this trip. How cool was that?

Off to the lighthouse

Our first destination was the lighthouse. Gigantes North is still not that civilized so the road going to the lighthouse is pretty rough and bumpy. It also rained the day before our inland tour so most part of the road was still muddy. Although it was like a roller coaster ride, I was able to enjoy our way to the lighthouse. I was able to witness how simple the villagers lived here and how much this island is blessed with natural resources.

Entrance of the lighthouse

The place is ideal for sun rise viewing. Unfortunately, we reached the area around 6:30 am and the sun has already set itself high. Based on our guide, if we really want to witness the sunrise we should have been there around 5-5:30 in the morning. Despite missing the scene, our group still enjoyed exploring the site. The area isn't that big but I find it visually attractive specially the ruins part of the lighthouse. I simply love its old structure and how picturesque it is.

Love the rustic vibe of this place

Aim and pose!

Just a random shot

The gate of the lighthouse was locked during our visit so we weren't able to climb up. Nonetheless, you can still able to see the breathtaking view from the foot of the lighthouse and that was enough for us.

The view at the foot of the lighthouse

Bakwitan Cave

From the lighthouse, it took us almost half an hour before we reached the jump off point of Bakwitan Cave. Have those feet ready and stretched out as you need to trek in order to make it on the mouth of Bakwitan Cave. It was a challenging trek to some of us as not all of my buddies are used to trekking and the trail is so muddy because it rained the day before we went there. The trail was so steep and muddy that it requires us to use our hands and sometimes slide-in in order to pushed through. As we reach the entrance of the cave, we are pretty much pumped up and just a bit covered with mud. Haha.

Our habal habal drivers are also the one who assisted us on our to Bakwitan Cave

Before we get inside of Bakwitan Cave, Kuya Glenn orient us the DOs and DON'Ts while inside of it. The photo below summarized the orientation and I suggest to everyone who will visit the cave to follow these rules to maintain orderliness:

Obey these simple rules

Just like any other cave, Bakwitan has stalagmites and stalactites formations scattered on different parts of the cave. We were also able to see how those things started as we saw small ones which about 5 inches tall. As per our guide, it will take hundreds of years to actually form so locals surround the small stalagmites with stones so visitors will not step and crash on it. That simple act is really admirable as I really saw how these people protect their own natural resources. Another highlight of the tour inside Bakwitan cave are the images formed in its walls and ceiling. All you have to do is use your imagination.

What makes Bakwitan Cave special are the stories which formed during the years. Bakwitan derived from the word "evacuate" to "refuge". This cave serves as a hiding place for Filipinos during the Japanese colony to escape from slavery. And up until now, this place acts as an evacuation site for the residents of Gigantes North every time a strong typhoon hits the area.

At the mouth of Bakwitan Cave

The cave was so dark and I don't have the right tools with me that day. So I have no decent photos inside the cave. :| Shame...

Entrance of Bakwitan Cave

The two sites were pretty simple compared to the other sites surrounding Islas de Gigantes. Yet, I still recommend these to everyone to include them on your itinerary when visiting Gigantes. This tour thought me (even just a little information) about Gigantes and its people. It is also nice to know that it is not just about island hopping but they also have inland tours at Gigantes.

If you also want to avail Kuya Glenn's service, you may reach him at 09124567959. I don't know if he can still remember me/us but if you can, please say hi for me!

Breakdown of Expenses: 
Inland tour - 200 Pesos per head
Donation at Bakwitan Cave - **.**

Accommodation in Gigantes Island: Rosewood Place Resort

If you have read my blog post about our island hopping tour at Islas de Gigantes (also called as Gigantes Islands) then you're probably wondering where did we stayed during our tour. Well, the title says it all. Our group stayed at Rosewood Place Resort found at Gigantes North.

Note: If you are looking for a grand resort with generator, hot and cold shower, or cable-installed television on your room then I would say that this is not the resort for you.

I would describe Rosewood Place as a plain and simple resort. Our stay here will gaves me peace of mind and somehow feels like living to basics again. I added the term "somehow" because although the rooms are air-conditioned and has faucet with unlimited water supply, Rosewood Place has limited access in terms of mobile and internet signals. There is no television on rooms. And lastly, it does not have generator which means there is no electricity from 6am to 6pm (which is implemented in the entire island).

Wait! Please don't be discourage because of the simple things I mentioned above. The resort may not have the luxury of signal but it is located in the beach front. You're there to relax so maximize it and let go of your gadgets. It may not have electricity during day time but who cares? Go out there and explore Gigantes! And instead of contemplating on your room because it has no television, why not take it as an opportunity to bond with your travel buddies? But above all, Rosewood Place serves GREAT FOOD and my friends can attest to that!

The Rooms

I find the rooms at Rosewood Place Resort affordable. Their non air-conditioned room ranges from 600 Pesos (good for 2 pax) to 1,750 Pesos (good for 7 pax). As for the air-conditioned rooms they have 1500 Pesos room which can accommodate 4 persons and 2,500 Pesos room for 7 persons.

Non Air-condition room for 4 pax 

Air Conditioned rooms for 4 pax

We were 9 in the group and wanted to stayed in one room so we asked if we could all stay on their 7 pax air-conditioned room and just add extra beds. They agreed to our request and charged us 3,000 Pesos per night. Although we were 9 and occupying their 7-pax room, I still find it big as if it can still hold up to 11 persons. We didn't have a problem with the ventilation and air conditioning.

Typical room vibe at Rosewood Place Resort

They can also provide electric fan for air condition rooms 

Simple yet clean bathroom

** Note: Room rates vary depending on the season

Amenities 

Well there's nothing much I can say under this section. Like what I stated above, the resort is simple. It has an average comfort rooms, a small dining place where the only television in this resort is located, and a couple of nipa huts where you can hangout with your travel buddies. But the thing you'll love the most about the resort is, it is a beach front hotel. Meaning, you have an unlimited access to the beach to enjoy it.

It is just a few roll away from the beach! 

Staying here

And oh! Before I forgot, you can also rent a videoke machine. Just take note that you can only use it until 10pm. Remember, you're not the only guest in the resort and they might be resting by that time.

Others 

Rosewood offers a lot in terms of packages that can ease up your trip to Gigantes Islands. We got our island hopping tour to them at the price of 7,500 Pesos which includes: 2-way transfer on Estancia Port to Gigantes North (where the resort is located) plus 1-day island hopping tour. Incase we decided to only avail their island hopping tour it would have only costs us 2,500 Pesos. The tour packages I mentioned here are for 15 pax and below. They have tour packages up to 30 pax.

You can also arrange your meals at Rosewood Place. Food here are ordered and priced by kilos. During our visit, all seafood dishes are at 250 Pesos per kilo while meats are at 350 Pesos per kilo. The said price includes cooking fee. They will also suggest what they can do to your order. But if you have something else on your mind, you can request it to them but bare in mind that they might not be able to do it due to limited access on ingredients.

These are just some of the food we had during our stay at Rosewood Place Resort: Steamed crab, buttered scallops, grilled fish (yellow fin), adobong pusit, tinolang manok and grilled liempo. And we really had a blast every time we finished our meals!

Verdict

I really had a nice stay at Rosewood Place Resort. It was relaxing and and I felt the province-vibe I am looking for every time I travel to a place like this. Facilities are something that can be worked on but its not of a big deal (for me). Specially when 70-80% of our time is, we're out exploring its neighbouring islands. They also offer low-cost accommodations and tours which are perfect for groups who are budget conscious.

We also don't have any problem with the staff of the resort as well as with the tour guides they provided. Socializing with them was never an issue. Everyone was friendly, honest and warm. Lastly, we felt secured the whole time we were there -- from the time they fetched us at Estancia Port until they accompanied us back to the port. And again, they serve great food!

Photo Op with Nanay :)

For inquiries and reservations, you may contact Rosewood Place Resort at: 0907 955 1099 and 0910 710 1595

Breakdown of Expenses:
Estancia port to North Gigantes (two-way) and Island Hopping - 7,500 Pesos (good for 9 pax)
Food - **.**
Accommodation - 3,000 Pesos (good for 9 pax)
Videoke - 150 Peos per hour
Environmental fee at Estancia Port - 5 Pesos per pax
Environmental fee at Gigantes North 150 Pesos per pax

Island Hopping at Islas de Gigantes (Gigantes Islands) of Iloilo

Islas de Gigantes (popularly known as Gigantes Islands) is one of my dream destination among the provinces of my country. It is located in the northernmost part of Iloilo province in the municipality of Carles. Gigantes Islands are known for its beautiful islands and islets packed with crystalline-like beaches and panoramic views. And just recently, I was able to crossed this place out on my bucket list and explored the province of Iloilo... specifically, Gigantes Islands.

How did I got there?

I strongly recommend that you book a flight going to Roxas as it is closer to Gigantes Islands. Unlike us, we booked our flights to Iloilo for which its airport is situated far away from Gigantes. Once you alight either of the airports, take any ride routing to Estancia Port. It is 2.5-3hrs away from Iloilo city. Since we went there as a big group, we hired a private van which we met in the airport. The Iloilo airport to Estancia port trip costs us 2,500 Pesos. Estancia port serves as the jump-off point for Gigantes Islands go-ers. You can avail public boats or you can also rent a private one to take you to any part of Gigantes.  We already had a contact that would take us to Gigantes Islands prior to our visit. We found a resort that is located on one of the islands that offered us a package which includes: 2-way transfer on Estancia Port to Gigantes North (where the resort is located) plus a 1-day island hopping tour at the price of 7,500 Pesos. This is a good price knowing that we're (9) nine on the group who will split up the said value. By the way, there is also a 5 pesos environmental fee per person at the port of Estancia.

Update: Here's my blogpost about the resort where we stay-in during our visit at Islas de Gigantes [click this link]

The Estancia Port

Random island during our tour

Moving on, the island hopping offered to us includes a visit to: 1) Gigantes North 2) Cabugao Island 3) Bantigue Sand Bar and lastly, 4) Antonia Beach. Usually, a visit to Tangke Lagoon is included on the tour, however, the lagoon is restricted to visitors until October due to rehabilitation activities.

Gigantes North

Gigantes North (Norte) is one of the mainlands of Gigantes Islands. Most of the resorts are located here which offer basic accommodation to travelers and explorers. A community is starting to grow in the island. Establishments such as schools, courts and halls are can be seen in the area. As for island activities, you have a choice whether you want to enjoy the beach while watching the sunset, enjoy the simple things on your resort, or do an in-land tour. In-land tour covers a trip to the lighthouse and Bakwitan cave. Again, another blog will be posted for our detailed in-land tour at Gigantes North.

Update: Here's my blogpost about our inland tour at Gigantes North [click this link]

A little sandbar at Gigantes North

As you enter the island, you need to pay 150 pesos per head for the purpose of environmental fee. This is good for your whole stay in Gigantes North. The main transportation in North is the habal-habal (motorbike). A ride can carry 2-3 heads at the expense of 20 Pesos each.

Cabugao Gamay Island

I would say that Cabugao Gamay Island is the most popular and an Instagram-famous among the different islands of Gigantes. I haven't seen anyone who visited Gigantes Islands that did not post a photo (selfie or non-selfie photo) like the one below:

Group shot at the view deck

Yes! That is taken at Cabugao Gamay of Iloilo! It is characterized by two islands connected by a sandbar. Gamay is a local term for small. This island has two white sand beaches lined up with coconuts trees so visitors will not run out of shades when the sun strikes up. Both sides of the island is swimmable. Therefore, visitors have a wide area to do their swim.

Just landed at Cabugao Gamay

Yes, it has creamy white sand beach!

Cabugao Gamay has a viewing deck where tourist can climb to have a bird�s eye view of the whole island. The deck is too small and can only occupy a couple of persons (an estimate of 15 persons at a time). As per our tour guide, this island has the tendency to be overly crowded during lean season due to its popularity. So please be very patient waiting for your turn while others are taking their photos. In our case, we went here during off-season (August) and I can say that we�re lucky because we had the chance to explore the island freely and took as many shots as we could at the top of the island without the hassle as there were only few people touring that day.

Lastly, please take note that there is a 50 Pesos per person fee upon visiting Cabugao Gamay. 

Bantigue Island (Sandbar)

Bantigue Sandbar (some spelled as Bantigui) is the third stop of our tour. Before we got there, I have no any expectations considering it is just a sandbar. However, as we reach Bantigue, I was surprise of its size. It is enormously big and long compared to other sandbars I've been to. As soon as our boat landed, everyone jumped out of the boat and started taking pictures! Our photo op were hold off when the rain started to pour hard.

Rain already started falling during this shot. Haha

While raining, we rested in a nipa hut to grasp some rest. Locals of Bantigue just ask for some donations for the use of nipa huts. In parallel, our boatmen started to prepare our lunch. We ordered our lunch on the resort where we checked in and just ask them if we could have it while having the tour.

Thea (author of The Prettea Traveler) and Kris also documenting our trip

Claire and Donna having their own photoshoot at Bantigui

Finally! A clear shot of the island

The rain didn't stop even after we have took our lunch. So if we can't beat it, we just went with it! We swim and explore the area while raining. It was indeed a fun experience! It brought out my childhood memories back. We stayed in the island longer than I expected. Every one enjoyed the stay and just played around and swim our hearts out. As soon as we're off the island, the rain also stopped. What a freezing welcome we had at Bantigue Island!

My Iloilo travel buddies

Antonia Beach

If Cabugao Gamay has that breathtaking view and Bantigue Island boasts its long and enormous sandbar, well, Antonia beach has is its gigantic rock formations. Those rock formations are found on different parts of the beach that compliments the island and makes it a picturesque site. If you have a hammock, I suggest that you bring it here. There are bunch of sprawling coconut trees in the area where you can set it up.

This area looks more beautiful in person

We were already tired when we got here so it was nice that there were benches near the beach. We just sit down, relaxed under the coconut tree, had a few drinks, and enjoyed everything our eyes can reached. By the way, there are tents available in the area in case you want to spend a night at Antonia beach. You can also find a small (sari sari) store and a working toilet room in the area.

Simple things available at Antonia's Beach

I had a good walk here

The other end of the island

Aside from camping, other activities available are: Banana boat, jet-skiing, beach volleyball, spelunking and snorkeling. Snorkeling gears are available for rent at 50 pesos. Also, There is a 40 Pesos per head fee upon entering Antonia Beach.

Equipment rentals at Antonia's Beach

My overall experience at Islas de Gigantes was exceptional. It was fulfilling that I was able to visit one of the top places on my (travel) bucket list. Each island we gone through has its special characteristics which makes it more interesting. Although it was off season and raining (on some part of our tour) during our visit, it didn't bother me much because the positive side is, there were only few tourists doing the island hopping. There were times where we felt like we rented the whole island because no other tourists were on it. Taking selfies and pictures of the views were easy. We seldom experience being photobombed. Lastly, I got the chance to have a selfie on top of Cabugao Gamay Island which is my ultimate goal for this tour!

Breakdown of Expenses:
Van transfer from Iloilo city/airport to Estancia port - 2,500 Pesos (good for 10 pax)
Estancia port to North Gigantes (two-way) and Island Hopping - 7,500 Pesos (good for 9 pax)
Estancia port environmental fee - 5 Pesos per head
Gigantes North environmental fee  - 150 Pesos per head
Cabugao Gamay entrance fee - 50 Pesos per head
Donation for nipa rental at Bantigue Sandbar - **.**
Food - **.**
Antonia Beach entrance fee - 40 Pesos per head

A Product Review: Huawei P9 as a Traveling Tool

Being a travel junkie in this modern world, owning the latest gadgets and devices gives me advancement in terms of documenting my trips. Today�s modernization offers a lot when it comes to entertainment, capturing moments and sceneries, giving directions, and most specially connecting people. These features are really essentials to backpackers slash office guys (like me) since we are out there exploring different realms.

Mobile phone is considered to be the most important gadget one must have when wandering. With all the features that are coming out in the market, phones can ease the stress incorporated when traveling. That�s why I am blessed and lucky enough to be contacted by a PR representative to do a review on one of the newest releases of Huawei�s mobile phone --- the Huawei P9.

I received my Huawei P9 two weeks ago and from that day on, I got ecstatic to try out the different things this phone can make. Huawei has been there in the market for quite some time now and already proved its name on producing quality phones. But what I targeted to discover is how P9 can make a difference and how it can help me on my journeys.

Design (display and sound)

I didn�t check the Internet to see what this phone does look like because I want to surprise myself. So during my unboxing moment, I must say that this phone didn�t fail me to amaze. Huawei really step up their game with Huawei P9. The phone has a full aluminum body which projects rock-solid and sturdy feels in all the right ways. I can visualize it with me on a rough travel without the worry of breaking it.

Huawei P9

When it comes to display, it stands stunningly at 5.2� with 1080p Full HD display. Its screens stretched out until almost to its edge so you�ll experience mostly of that 5.2 inches while viewing stuff to this phone.  Plus, I find it not that big so you�ll have a good grip on it.

Bottom part of P9

Under the phone, you�ll notice the small grille where sound is projected. Despite being small, it was a surprise because of the quality audio that comes out of it. The quality I mentioned doesn�t mean it can be used for striking up a party.  But its perfect for some crisp and clear hands-free call incase you forgot your headset.

Camera

As a blogger, taking photos is a must! I used it on my blog (of course) as well as on posting to different SNS sites. So I am very anxious on the tools I used for shooting.  That�s why I am very thrilled to test the camera of Huawei P9.  Co-engineered with Leica, Huawei promises to �reinvent smartphone photography� with its ground breaking dual-lens.

Imagine this: Huawei and Leica combined to build stunning dual-lens camera in a smartphone. It only means one thing -- having more light and better clarity for a more amazing photos and videos.

Sharp quality photos with advanced shooting functions

With all honesty, I had a blast using the camera of Huawei P9. Its ad about reinventing smartphone photography really lives it up. Its two 12-megapixel sensors take solid and great shots as if it was not taken by a mobile phone. I also love how I can shoot manually to get the mood of my photo based on my desired. It�s like I am using my DSLR camera playing on exposures and shutter speed but on a lightweight and handy device in the form of Huawei P9. In addition, its low light performance is impressive and has accurate auto focusing system. You can even easily shoot on a subject with little light available.

Actual shots from Huawei P9. These are resized but unedited photos from the unit:

In terms of its front camera, Huawei P9 is packed with 8-megapixel lenses, which assures to capture fair and sharp shots. Sending selfies having a beautiful beach as a background and taking video calls will not be an afterthought on using this phone.  

For ladies, you�ll be happy on its �beauty-slider� that can smooth away those blemishes during bad-skin day.

System and Performance

I got the device installed with the latest Android OS, which is Android 6.0 Marshmallow. A Kirin 955 Octa-Core having 32 GB storage and 3GB of ram is running P9. Everything runs smoothly from downloading applications, to playing games, to streaming videos. I even installed it with latest craze app, Pokemon Go, and I had no issue on its GPS capabilities as well as connecting over the web. I must say that this is a blazingly fast phone. I was able to kill time watching clips and videos without experiencing clashing of apps during my trips.

My P9 with the latest mobile application

Note: storage is still expandable up to 128 GB. (but other says up to 256 GB) so rest assured that this phone can hold more files.  

When it comes to battery life, P9 is in stored with a 3,000-mAh-battery pack. Although it has a higher battery size compared to other phones, I discovered it to consume a lot of power whenever connected to LTE. In an intensive day of use, I found myself needing to charge my P9 by the afternoon. Especially whenever I am out and using Waze app for directions. For me it was not a big of a deal since I am a self-confess extremist when it comes to using my phone and Internet over the day and even at night. So I understand the need of charging devices after hours of use. Plus, I have my power banks with me all the time.

I also make use of the power saving battery mode whenever I want to squeeze the potential usage of my P9. The said feature switches the screen resolution to 720p and displaying a simpler layout which evidently saves the battery of Huawei P9.

Others

What I also like to highlight about P9 is its fingerprint sensor. Security is important when traveling because you don�t want things to slip off your way during exploration.

Sensor is located at the back of the unit

P9 sensor is located at the back of the phone and it is unfailingly accurate and fast. It easily detects the registered prints and same goes with blocking those unrecognized prints. I love how easy to unlock my phone in an instant whenever I need to text someone or opening an application. I would say that its response time is much quicker compared to my IPhone 6 sensor. Moreover, I also use the sensor to activate functions such as taking a photos, answering calls and turning off an alarm, which is very convenient. It also recognizes swipes that can be used on browsing photos and web pages.

The Verdict

P9 is perfectly a great smartphone and nice of a deal. I strongly recommend it to travelers and non-travelers. I would say Huawei took a huge leap forward with this latest release. The design is so sleek and ridiculously thin and light but packed with great specs and capabilities.  It is incredibly fast and has the latest security innovation. I can say that Huawei P9 can be a seamless buddy when traveling.

Also, let�s not forget the amazing camera this phone is installed with. Huawei�s partnership with Leica is undeniably a huge factor of P9�s success in terms of its photography side. I enjoyed the bunch of shooting modes this phone has and how I can dig to manual settings to dictate the outcome of my photos. It is a very handy photography tool in a form of mobile device which is a great advantage when you�re traveling. Huawei shows that smartphone photography can be pushed extremely instead on taking small steps.

To wrap this up, if you�re a photo fanatic that is looking for a stable performing device then Huawei P9 deserves a serious consideration. It is now available on local malls and stores. Visit Huawei and experience P9 for yourself.