kentisnowhere: Travel

How to get to Bantayan Island

Cebu

This humble island is located on the Northern tip of Cebu, Philippines.

Via Public Transport

Public buses and Public vans are available all day to take you to Bantayan Island. Plan your trip accordingly as the ferry trip to Bantayan island is not 24 hours.

Tip: take the earliest trip that you can so you can skip the traffic. First ferry trip to the island is 1 am and the last trip is 5:30 pm. If you arrive in Cebu in the afternoon, it's best to stay in the city and travel to Bantayan the next day.

Go to the terminal beside the MyBus Terminal at SM City Cebu
Take a bus or a premium van going to Hagnaya Wharf. The ride will take 3 hours - 4 hours, depending on traffic. Van fare would be around Php 300 while the bus fare is approximately Php 260 - 280

Tip: Vans (Black Taxi) are generally faster (they could cut the trip to 2 hours!) but has limited space. If you only have a carry - on then taking the van is the best option.

Upon arriving in Hagnaya Wharf, a ferry will take you to the island. The trip would take up to an hour. The fare is Php 325 which includes terminal fee*.
Hail a tricycle that will bring you to your preferred resort or better yet arrange for pickups with the resort. The fare is usually Php 30 per person.

Tip: If the tricycle drivers would ask you to pay for the whole trip which is around Php 150 - 200 per way, you may walk away and wait for another Tricycle outside the port. Also, if you have arranged a land tour, ask the driver if they could pick you up from the port.

Via Private Vehicles

The road going to Hagnaya is paved with concrete so any vehicle can take you there. You can leave your car in several paid parking spaces at Hagnaya wharf. Price is usually Php 150 per day - not 24 hours. Please confirm the timing with the owner to avoid conflict

You can also bring your car/motorcycle/bicycles to Bantayan Island via cargo vessels.

*Last update: March 2024

If you miss the last ferry trip, you may check out the accommodations below

Hagnaya Beach Resort

JJS Hotel and Resort

Mar Azul Travellers Inn and SPA

Accommodations near the Bus Terminal to Hagnaya Port

Radisson Blu Cebu

Bayfront Hotel Cebu - North Reclamation

Sugbutel Family Hotel

9:00 AM
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Discovering Davao

Davao

Of all the places in Mindanao, Davao has always been on top of my list. Due to some circumstances, Davao remained a dream. But thanks to AirAsia for cancelling their Cebu - Cagayan route, we ended up in this charming place. Yay!

Where to stay in Davao

We did not stay in a hotel, nor in a pension house. We stayed in an apartment at Camella Northpoint in Buhangin which is close to Abreeza Mall.

There are a lot of hotels, inns, and pension houses in Davao. I highly recommend staying in an area where public transport is easy to find (e.g. JP Laurel Ave.)

For discounted Davao City deals, please check the links below:
Agoda's Top Recommendation
Travelbook's Top Recommendation

Where to eat in Davao

Aside from the famous Durian and Mangosteen, there are a lot of food choices that you should try.

We had the famous Glamour Crab Buffet. Yes, you read it right! Mouthwatering crabs for under Php 500. Also, please try Pastil BBQ sa Ponce. This is Davao's take on a Pinoy favourite.

What to do in Davao

Tour! Yes, you need to explore the place. Davao is the largest city (by land area) in the world! It is approximately 7-8 times bigger than Cebu! Now, imagine the possibilities.

Due to time constraints, we have only visited a few attractions. That means that I have reasons to be back!

List of places that you may visit.

Philippine Eagle Center

Located in Malagos, Davao City. The eagle centre primarily operates for the preservation of eagles. The centre does not only showcase eagles; they also have other animals and birds. But the presence of the magnificent Philippine eagle is enough for you to include this in your list.

Malagos Garden

This place is like a mountain resort/ adventure place with accommodation. They offer extensive recreational activities. Great place to visit for only Php 200 on weekdays and Php 500 on weekends. Open everyday from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Eden Nature Park

All the rides, view, landscape are all worth it. Pay a visit if you want to commune with nature. We literally spend 3/4 of our day here. Highly recommended!

Crocodile Park

This place is heaven for crocodiles. They preserve and protect our local crocs. The facility also holds other reptiles and mammals. Admission fee is Php 150 for adults.

Monfort Bat Cave

A must visit place! Literally took my breath away. It's a cave full of fruit bats. It's so interesting to see all bats hanging. This is located in the beautiful Samal Island

Island Garden of Samal

The go-to beach for most people in Davao. The island offers a variety. From bat caves, waterfalls, cliff resorts to the pristine white beach, everything is here. Furthermore, it's accessibility from the Davao Integrated Port makes it more alluring. Barge fare is only Php 10. I highly recommend visiting Maxima resort for awesome slides and other adrenaline-pumping activities.

For discounted Davao City deals, please check the links below:

Agoda's Top Recommendation
Travelbook's Top Recommendation

11:03 AM
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How to survive Boracay on a budget

Boracay

Yes, everything in Boracay comes with a price - waayyyy higher price. But if you're part of Forbes' richest. This post is not for you.

We all love to travel. But it's not that easy to show up in an airport and choose a random destination (how I wish I can do that). We have to carefully lay out a plan and that includes a travel budget.

Boracay - one of the most visited beach in the Philippines. With its clear waters, powdery sand, various food hubs, and fun-filled activities, you'll easily break your bank in a matter of hours.

Luckily, I've found a few ways to survive without draining my funds.

1.) Book an accommodation ahead of time - This way, you'll have the luxury to choose the best accommodation that is easy on the wallet. There are heaps of inns that offer an air-conditioned room for as low as Php 900 a night.

When I was there, We booked with Tan's Guest House located in station 2. They have great rooms! Most rooms come with a fridge. And, it is literally 30 seconds away from the beach. Price starts at Php 1000.

For other discounted Boracay accommodations, click this link

2.) When exploring the island, be on the lookout for cheap eats - Boracay is packed with different food places. And watch out for fancy looking restos because you'll definitely shell out more notes for a pasta meal.

Take advantage of local promotions. For instance, Tilapia 'n Chips' local treat - fish fillet paired with rice plus a glass of iced tea for only Php 99. Or you can also have your obligatory meal with Andok's. Gobble up their fried chicken and/or breaded pork chop. And thou shall not forget Mang Inasal! They'll be your life saver when the ultimate hunger kicks in. For under Php 150, you can enjoy their unlimited rice.

And of course, how can we forget the all-time favourite turo turo / carenderia for only Php 40 per viand.

3.) Do not spend all your money on expensive concoctions/cocktails - Walk a few minutes to Budget Mart. Buy your favourite bottle and enjoy whilst viewing the sunset. But, if there's really an urge to buy that expensive booze to experience the ambience of the bar, go ahead!

Also, most drinking hubs offer a happy hour that will satisfy your inner alcoholic self on a budget.

4.) Do not rush in paying Boracay water activities - you'll never know if the next person you'll bump into would offer a lower price. Be patient and learn to haggle. For sure, you'll get a better price.

5.) Plan your activities - yes, this is the ultimate money-saving technique. Have a budget and stick to it!

For cheap and discounted Boracay deals, check out this link

Well, that's an easy list! Good luck on your next Boracay Adventure!

2:02 PM
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The Great Apo Island Experience

Dumaguete

On the southern tip of Negros Island, a hidden paradise is awaiting its discovery. From majestic rock formations to rich marine life. Everyone should include this in their lists!

The island boasts several marine treasures. This marine reserve is quite popular to scuba enthusiast and snorkeling fans.

How to Get There?

From Robinsons Dumaguete City:

Ride a Jeepney bound for Zamboanguita at Bread Camp across the old Caltex Gas Station. Fare is Php 20
Remind the driver to drop you off at the corner of Zamboanguita port
You can either walk to the port or hail a tricycle going to the port. Tricycle fare is Php 8
Upon reaching the port, you need to fill out a few documents before you can hop into your wavy adventure. A tourism officer will assist you with all those stuff.
You need to pay the boat fee (standard fee) which starts from Php 2,500. But, I highly recommend that you get the bigger boats because the waves are challenging.

Standard Boat Rental Fee

1 - 4 capacity - Php 2500

5 - 6 capacity - Php 3000

7 - 8 capacity - Php 3500

9 - 10 capacity - Php 4000

11 - 12 capacity - Php 4500

13 - 14 capacity - Php 5000

15 - 16 capacity - Php 7000

17 - 21 capacity - Php 8000

Where to Stay?

There are a lot of homestays across the island. We stayed at Roners behind the school. We paid Php 150 each for the night. They usually put signages with prices. But if you have great haggling skills you can get a cheaper price.

I really can't recommend our homestay for the reason that it's located behind a school - not beach front. You can get a beachfront location at Liberty Lodge for Php 250 a night.

For Cheap Dumaguete City Accommodations, check out the link below
Agoda's Top Recommendation
Travelbook's Top Recommendation

Where to eat?

If you're into cooking your own food, you can bring your own portable stove and cook. You can also ask the in-charge of your homestay to do the cooking. The usual charge is Php 50 - 100 depending on complexity. Just remember to bring your own ingredients because items are a little bit costly on the island.

Alternatively, you can avail of Liberty Lodge's accommodation with full board meals for Php 800 a night.

How much will I spend?

If you're from Cebu, for a group of 5+, you can bring around Php 1700 - 2500 each all in and that's good for 2 days and 1 night. I've also noticed that they have several fees. Below are some fees

Dock Fee - Php 300 per boat

Island Entrance Fee - Php 100

Guide Fee - Php 300 per guide

Snorkel gear Rental Fee - Php 100

Life Vest Rental Fee - Php 100

What to do?

Obviously, you need to dive, snorkel, swim, and repeat. Aside from that, you can also trek for about 20 mins to the lighthouse. From there, you'll see a glimpse of the island.

You can also immerse yourself in the community. Observe their activities. Talk to a local. Ask questions. Explore.

And oh, one thing you need to remember. The island runs on a generator so electricity is only available for 3-4 hours a day; from 6 pm to 9-10 pm.

So gather all your friends and explore this hidden gem.

For Cheap Dumaguete City Accommodations, check out the link below
Agoda's Top Recommendation
Travelbook's Top Recommendation

2:36 PM
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Manila for 24 hours

Luzon

Thank God for low-cost airlines! Now, you don't have to break your bank for a travel budget. Just look out for promo fares and your good. We got a cheap ticket for CEB-MNL / MNL-CEB and we're just so excited that we realized that we only have a Sunday to spare.

But nothing is stopping us from enjoying. Here are some of the things we enjoyed.

Legaspi Sunday Market - We're from Cebu but we've been eyeing on this flea market since. We've been exploring the hashtags on Instagram and made a promise to ourselves that one day, we'll be there.

I don't know if it's just me but there's a certain effect every time I see a flea market. It's just so alluring that I cannot simply resist it. It's probably due to the fact that you'll see a lot of random stuff (that you don't normally see in a mall) or maybe due to some really cheap finds? I don't know! All I know is I'm enjoying it.

Star City - Have I mentioned that we don't have an amusement park as big as this in Cebu? That's why this was the best part of our trip. Normally, you get to pay Php 420 for a Ride-All-You-Can pass but thanks to Metrodeal we got ours at Php 280.

SM MOA by the Bay Amusement Park - I know! we just can't get enough of these awesome rides. This park stands out due to the fact that it's by the bay so you literally get sea breeze on your face - which is refreshing! And oh, this amusement park also has a tall Ferris wheel which boasts a breath-taking view.

Minor Basilica of The Black Nazarene - Commonly known as, Quiapo Church. This church is famous for having the largest procession in the Philippines. Every 9th of January, devotees will gather with the hopes of touching the holy image of The Black Nazarene. It is believed that touching the image will bring miracles to the life of the devotee.

MRT/LRT ride - Call me whatever you want but this one is getting on my list. This is a common mass transport in Luzon. Yes, only in Luzon! we don't have trains in Cebu, yet.

Also, we went to a couple of malls for refreshments.

*photos were taken by Raevin Pelayo

12:17 PM
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Just another to-do-list in Cebu

Cebu

Hey there, traveler! If you want to see Cebu from a new perspective then you've come to the right page! Experience the daily hustle and bustle of the city.

1.) Eat at a "pungko-pungko" spot - this infamous hole-in-the-wall dining experience is a must do in your Cebu trip. However, this is not for the picky eater. You won't be eating with silverware but with plastic gloves. You won't have a well-trained wait person but a funny little cashier/server/vendor/entertainer. And lastly, you won't be eating restaurant-quality food but tasty fried dishes. And yes, I'm talking about fried pork intestines, fried pig brain, fried pork fat, fried sausages, fried pork tongue, Fried pig tripe, fried spring rolls (but not the fancy stuff), and everything that can be fried. It may sound fatty but it's a sure hit for the Cebuano palate. And believe me, this sinful delight wouldn't even cause you a fortune!

Popular "pungko-pungko" places:

Across Apple Tree Suites

Across Cebu Doctors' University

Near Redemptorist church

2.) People-watch at Cebu IT Park - This is really a great time-killer and you'll get to observe the hardworking professionals of Cebu's BPO industry. I recommend you find a spot along i2 - i3 building. This is a great spot since this is near the big BPOs. Best time to go is at night. And if you get bored of people-watching then you can just dine at any resto in the area.

3.) Explore Sugbo Mercado - This is part of Cebu IT park but I think it deserves a spot in our list. Sugbo Mercado is the first successful food market in Cebu. It boasts different cuisines that are enjoyed by cebuanos.

4.) Visit Cebu Museums - There are a lot of museums around the city. From Museo Sugbo to Casa Gorordo to Cathedral Museum of Cebu, these sites boast the city's rich heritage.

5.) Run a few laps at Abellana Cebu City Sports Center - Need to shed some pounds? Well, you gotta visit here and work those easy-going muscles. This is where most Cebuanos spend their afternoon/early morning jog. Aside from the oval track, there are also other amenities like gym, lap pool, volleyball court, etc.

6.) Eat Lechon - Need I say more? One does not simply skip this sumptuous Cebu offering.

Popular Lechon spots:
CNT Lechon
Talisay Lechon
Carcar Lechon

7.) Enjoy Cebu's streetfood - We've got barbecue spots almost everywhere! Plus several food carts that offer good ol' fried goodness. You may also visit the Barracks of Carbon Market.

8.) Try a Tuslob - buwa meal - This originally came from Pasil, Cebu. People here are the grandmaster chefs of this treat. Recently, a lot of restaurants have commercialised this treat making it more available to the public. What's remarkable about this meal is you get to cook it on your own. So if Yakiniku is for Japanese, Samgyeopsal is for Korean then Tuslo-buwa is definitely for the Cebuanos. This tabletop treat is best served while it's hot.

Popular Tuslo-buwa spots:
Azul
Papart's

9.) Gobble a few Siomai from Tisa - This piece of heaven is a popular Dimsum treat. But since Cebuanos are very creative, we've decided to create our own version. Luckily, this famous Siomai / Siumai sa Tisa can be availed almost anywhere! Just look for a banner that says, "Siomai sa Tisa available here".

10.) Swim, swim, and swim - Whether it's from the lush Mactan resorts or from the backpackers inn in Moalboal, this is a must thing to do when you're on this beautiful island.

And yes, those are some things that you can try while you're in Cebu. A little bit of new experience won't hurt ay?