kentisnowhere: Thoughts and Tips

Best Spots To See The Mayon Volcano's Picturesque Cone

Mayon Volcano, also known as Mayon or Mt. Mayon is an active volcano in Albay, Legaspi which is famous for its almost symmetrically conical shape. Consequently, a lot of tourists visit Legaspi which boost the province tourism industry.

View from Sumlang Lake

The first thing that travellers want to do when in Albay is to witness the fiery glory of the Mayon Volcano. But where's the best place to see the Mayon's beauty? Lucky for you, we have listed the best spots to see the Mayon Volcano.

Cagsawa Ruins

The Cagsawa Ruins are the remnants of Cagsawa church, a 16th-century Franciscan church. The church was destroyed, along with the town of Cagsawa, on February 1, 1814, during the eruption of the Mayon Volcano. Now, the tragedy left us with one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines.

Cagsawa Ruins

There are several food stalls and souvenir shops at Cagsawa Ruins. Therefore, you can stay the whole day whilst enjoying the Mayon's beautiful view. Also, there are a lot of ATV operators around the area that offers cheap ATV tours ranging from Php 500 to Php 2,000. Price is subject to distance of route.

Fees:

Entrance Fee: Php 20*

Ligñon Hill Nature Park

The 512 feet high Ligñon Hill is also a known spot in Legaspi. This used to be a PHIVOLCS observatory. But today, it has become one of the city’s prime destinations for tourists and locals. The new Ligñon Hill Nature Park offers sights and activities for all types of visitors.

View from Lignon Hill

This nature park offers several attractions such as zip lines, tunnels, hiking, sightseeing, and picnic areas. It boasts a 360 view of the province hence sunsets and sunrise is often a delightful sight here.

The site offers a motorcycle/habal-habal services that take you to the top in a few minutes. Otherwise, you are free to hike for about 30 - 45 minutes, depending on your pace. Also, food and souvenir are available atop.

Fees:

Entrance Fee: (As of March 2024, there is no update regarding the re-opening of Lignon Hill Nature Park)

Sumlang Lake

This place is relatively small compared to the other nature parks. However, seeing the majestic mayon with an added view of the lake is pure bliss. The park also offers pay per ride rafts adorned with beautiful ornaments that quite pleasing, especially for couples. But if you're on a budget, you may just sit on the parked rafts, whip out your cameras, and with the right angle and creativity, you'll definitely have that spot on instagrammable shot.

Sumlang Lake

Lastly, there is also an on-site restaurant called Soccoro's that is open from 11 am to 8 pm. They offer various local dishes such as Bicol Express and other known Albay dishes. Best to sit outdoors to maximize your dining experience with the elegant view of the Mayon Volcano.

Fees:

Entrance Fee: Php 100*

ATV to Helipad

Seeing Mayon Volcano in its full glory understates everything that I've learned in school about its beauty. As a Filipino, it should be in your list to see Mayon even once in your whole lifetime.

Breathtaking view on the Helipad

*Prices as of Mar 2024

Recommended Accommodation:

Hotel Sentro Legaspi

Click here to book

Abaca Suites

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FJ Manila Hotel

Click here to book

11:00 AM
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Enjoy Dinagat Islands for 2 days and 1 Night

Dinagat Island

Running out of holiday leaves but wanting to escape the city? Not a problem! You can take a quick break to Dinagat Islands on a weekend. Enjoy the province for 2 days and 1 night.

Dinagat Islands

Dinagat Islands province is located north of Surigao City. This low key province boasts several pristine beaches and a unique culture.

How to get there?

Dinagat Islands are physically separated from the mainland. Huge passenger outrigger canoes ply from Surigao City to Dinagat Island regularly.

Boat Fare: Php 100

Travel Time: 2 hours

Boats are available from the boulevard of Surigao City. The first trip departs around 5:00 - 5:30 AM. Trips are not available every hour. Please coordinate with the local boat operators as their schedule might change without prior notice.

Since this trip was not planned. We didn't have much time to prepare our itinerary. Hence, we availed the tour service of J malls, a local tour agency in Dinagat Islands. We paid Php 1,500 each for 2 days and a 1-night trip.

Inclusions of the Php 1,500 trip

Airconditioned Room Accommodation within Poblacion, San Jose
Port Pick up/drop off
Free Plated Breakfast with coffee
Island Hopping tour without meals
Dinagat Land Tour

We had a hassle-free Dinagat tour for only Php 1,500.

J malls contact details:

mobile number: 0917 163 1907 or 0939 922 2449

There are other inns and accommodations in the mainland. Just coordinate with the local tourism of Dinagat. Boat rental for a whole day island hopping costs around Php 3,500 for 10-15 persons.

Also, if you want to stay for a night in Surigao City, click this link to see some of the cheapest accommodations in the city.

LOOK: Siargao Adventure

Island Hopping Day (J Malls Itinerary)

We started around 9 AM. Since the tour does not include food. We availed of J malls lunch pack at Php 150 per person: 1 rice, 1 side dish, 1 main dish, and 1 bottle of soft drinks or water.

Jelmar's Islet Resort

This is the farthest amongst the places included in our tour. We spent more than an hour slicing through the big waves of Dinagat just to reach the crystal clear waters of Jelmar's Island Resort.

This resort is pretty straightforward. It's a beach place on stilts. There's nothing fancy in this resort except for the clear and turquoise water that is at par to the likes of El Nido and Boracay. Well, if you've been to several beach destinations in the Philippines, we tend to loosely use the word 'resort' as a description of our basic beach place.

If you're planning to spend a night here, they offer air-conditioned rooms for a hefty price tag of Php 2,000 per night.

Pangabangan Tidal Pool

This place is close to Jelmer's. It has a blue lagoon that is best viewed from above a nearby rocky hill.

Lake Bababu

This lake is a 30-minute trek from the beach. The area is a private property owned by the Langit Family. Someone must accompany you to Lake Bababu as it is believed that non-human elements protect the area.

Due to time constraints and extreme weather conditions, we weren't able to visit the other beautiful beaches (Duyos Island, Bitaog Beach)

You can also explore Dinagat Province without the aid of any travel agency. This is better since you'll have control over your time and places to visit. There are other places that you should also visit in Dinagat.

Kamangon Cave
Cab-ilan Island
Sundayo Beach
Dako Falls
Mt. Palhi (Bonsai Forest)
Hinabyan Island

Dinagat Land Tour

This is part of the package. But, there are a lot of motorcycle drivers that may tour you around for a reasonable fee. Furthermore, you can ask them for boat contacts.

San Jose Municipal Beach
This is a government-maintained beach. It's perfect for families and friends

Entrance fee: Php 10

We had a hassle-free Dinagat tour for only Php 1,500.

Castle (Residence of the Ecleos, founding family of PBMA and political family in Dinagat)

I have no words to best describe what I felt when I saw their house/castle. The castle just shows how influential the Ecleos are in Dinagat. We were just at the gate since the castle no longers admits tourist right after the election.

Aside from those two locations, we just stopped at the random elevated points that had great overlooking views.

We weren't able to drop by PBMA Shrine because we weren't wearing white shirts/attire.

Where to eat?

If you're staying in Poblacion, then food is not a problem. There are shops that sell roasted chicken, BBQs, burger, bread, etc. Also, the market always has the freshest catch of the day.

Mobile Signal and Electricity

There's mobile signal for both Globe and Smart. Hence, calls and text are good. Data connectivity is not that strong in some areas, though.

There is an adequate supply of electricity in the mainland.

Tips for a pleasant Dinagat Adventure

Smoking and Alcoholic beverages are prohibited within the Poblacion area of San Jose, Dinagat Islands. PBMA members predominantly reside in the area and they've decided to ban the sale of such goods. You can purchase alcoholic beverages and cigarettes in the next town.
Please respect their religion and culture.
Bring enough cash since ATM's are limited.
Know the boat schedule
Bring an all-white outfit if you wish to visit the PBMA Shrine.
Best to bring a dry bag as waves tend to become stronger in the afternoon.
Lastly, chat with the locals. Learn a thing or two about their place.

LOOK: Siargao Adventure

7:15 PM
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Malamawi Island Basilan: A Trip To Remember

Basilan

"Is it really safe there? What if we'll get kidnapped? Should we really go?" These were some of the things that were troubling my thoughts before our planned trip to Malamawi Island, Basilan. The ignorance, misconception, and dismissive attitude towards Basilan is the direct result of traditional media sensationalism. Still, we couldn't really deny the fact that the series of uprisings and terrorism weakened Basilan's tourism further.

Getting There

There are a lot of boats from Zamboanga City Port that may take you to Isabela City, Basilan. There are fast crafts and ferries/RORO that are available daily from 6:00 AM to 4:45 PM.

Weesam Express

Fare: Php 170

Travel Time: 45 minutes

Zamboanga to Isabela Daily Schedule (as of May 2018)

6:00 AM (only for Monday & Saturday)
6:45 AM
9:30 AM
12:45 PM
3:30 PM

Isabela to Zamboanga Daily Schedule (as of May 2018)

7:00 AM
8:15 AM
10:45 AM
2:00 PM
4:45 PM

Aleson Shipping Lines Daily Schedule (as of May 2018)

Fare: starts at Php 145

Travel Time: depends on the vessel but definitely slower than most fast crafts

Contact number: 0917 821 8823

Zamboanga to Isabela Daily Schedule (as of May 2018)

6:30 AM
6:45
9:45 AM
12:00 PM
12:30 PM
3:45 PM

Isabela to Zamboanga Daily Schedule (as of May 2018)

6:45 AM
9:00 AM
9:30 AM
12:00 PM
12:45 PM
3:30 PM

Basilan is home to diverse ethnic groups including the Badjaos, who live by the coastal areas in the province. Upon reaching Isabela Port, you'll be greeted by communities on stilts.

We only went to Isabela City where Malamawi Island is near. Upon reaching Isabela Port, we went to the other side of the port where motorised outriggers will willingly take you to Malamawi Island. It's just a short 5-minute ride for only Php 10 each.

The residents of Malamawi Island are accustomed to tourists. In fact, transportation from the port to Malamawi White Beach is not an issue. There are a lot of motorcycle drivers who'll take you to the beach for only Php 30 per way, per person.

Malamawi Beach

The beach is secured since there are several military personnel assigned to guard the area. We were shocked when we arrived at the beach. We were expecting a beautiful barren beach. Instead, the beach was full of excited beach-goers, families, and friends! It didn't feel like we were in Basilan. All our doubts and apprehension were erased in an instant. We couldn't even find an empty cottage!

Rates

Entrance Fee: Php 35
Regular Cottage: Php 350
Big Cottage: Php 1,200
Bali Hall (upper): Php 3,000
Bali Hall (lower): Php 3,000

For reservations, please contact them directly at 0945 062 8568

Food

We highly advise bringing your own food since their store has limited supplies.

Overall, the island is generally safe. Just always remember to respect their local culture and you'll be fine.

LOOK: WE ALMOST DIDN'T MAKE IT TO THE PINK SAND BEACH OF STA CRUZ ISLAND ZAMBOANGA

1:03 PM
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We Almost Didn't Make it to the Pink Sand Beach of Sta Cruz Island Zamboanga

Mindanao

Sta Cruz Island is located off the coast of Zamboanga City. The island boasts pinkish sand and clear waters. The pinkish hue came from pulverized organ pipe red coral. Hence, the pink sand beach of Sta Cruz made its mark.

We Almost Didn't Make it to the Pink Sand Beach of Sta Cruz Island Zamboanga

The Great Sta Cruz and the Little Sta Cruz Islands are both declared as protected areas. The LGU of Zamboanga is gearing towards preservation, protection, conservation and rehabilitation of the island's ecosystem.

How to Get to the Island?

If you're planning to visit the island with a large group, it's better to call days before your date of visit to secure a reservation. Personally, we called on a Friday hoping to book for the weekend. Unfortunately, they were fully booked and the next available slot was after a week. We were saddened by this information but we looked for other ways to get in. Since we called for a D.I.Y. trip and boats are fully booked, we sought help from travel agencies that are recognised by the tourism office. Sadly, their tours also depend on the slots given by the tourism office. They were also fully booked. We were getting frustrated and blamed the system.

I paused, thought for a moment, and started rationalising. They are limiting the number of tourists in the area since they want to protect it. The priority is the welfare of the whole island not the earnings from tourism. Instantly, I realised how great their cause is. And, I commend the whole LGU for their efforts. It's nice to know that a local government is religiously preserving the island.

Luckily, the tourism office notified us that we can go to Paseo del Mar and sign up as "chance passengers" on the day of our travel. Our dying spirits quickly regained its strength and we were so ready for Sta Cruz Island. It really pays to coordinate with the tourism office.

We arrived in Paseo del Mar around 7 AM. It was packed with excited tourists. Hurriedly, we went straight to the information booth and asked for the wait list. We wrote our names and prayed for a slot.

Around 9 AM, we got a slot and was scheduled to depart in 30 minutes. It was a moment of triumph!

Fees

Boat - Php 1000 ( Good for 10 persons; Roundtrip) In our case, we paid Php 100 each for the boat since we shared the cost with the other smaller groups.
Island Entrance Fee - Php 20
Terminal Fee - Php 5
Cottage Rental Fee - Depends on availability

Small - Php 100 (4-6 pax)
Large - Php 200 (8-12 pax)
Pavilion - Php 500 (20-40 pax)

Things to remember

Bring all your trash/ rubbish. Do not leave anything on the island.
Collection of corals, shells, sand, and other living and non-living components are strictly prohibited.
Vandalism is not allowed.
Pets are not allowed
Strict ban on alcoholic drinks
Fishing is highly prohibited
Loudspeakers, karaoke, etc shall need approval from the office
Overnight stay is not allowed
Washing the dishes are not allowed in the swimming area
Only grill on designated areas
Only licensed vessels shall be permitted to transport guest to/from the island

Please call the Sta Cruz Island in-charge at 0977 708 3194 for bookings and reservations.

If you simply have lots of dough to spare and want to have a hassle-free trip, please coordinate with their tourism office for packaged tours. Below is the tour agency that they have recommended:

Zamboanga Day Tours

Landline: (062) 991-1174

Globe: 0917 722 6410, 0917 392 9474, 0995 699 3274

Smart: 0939 445 6290

Great Sta Cruz Island

It's so amazing to see the crystal clear waters of Sta Cruz Island considering that it's just a few minutes away from the mainland. The sand is not that pink as seen in some heavily edited photos online. Instead, the fine sand is powdery white with a pinkish blush.

Never miss the smaller counterpart -- Little Sta Cruz Island. The sandbar is surrounded with Gatorade-like waters. It is so beautiful that our photos don't do justice at all. Just inform your boatman to take you to the other island. You'll just need to pay Php 200 for a quick 10-minute island exploration.

Where to Eat on the island?

Since you'll just be staying for 4 - 5 hours, it's better to bring your own food and drinks. But if you hate bringing all those stuff, vendors on the island offer a seafood variety. We bought 4-5 pieces fresh squid in medium size and a kilo of cooked rice for Php 700 pesos. It was grilled immediately and served with the traditional soy and vinegar concoction. Also, we purchased a big bag of crabs for Php 500. They also sell a 1.5-liter bottle of soft drinks for Php 95.

Where to stay for the night?

Unfortunately, no one is allowed to stay overnight on the island. It's against the rules of the local government. Everyone should be back to the mainland before 2 PM.