Pinamungajan: Tauhai Garden Beach Resort & Spa

Check out:  https://travellingandbeyond.com/

LOCATION:

Tajao, Pinamungajan, Cebu (westcoast of Cebu)

FESTIVAL:

Pamuhuan Festival (May 4)

FEES: (as of April 2015)

Bus Fare from Cebu South Bus Terminal to Tajao (est. 80.00)

Van Fare from Cebu Citilink to Tajao (est. 120.00)

Tricycle Fare from Toledo Terminal to Terminal for Pinamungajan (8.00)

Jeepney or Tricycle Fare from Toledo to Tajao (est. 20.00)

Entrance and Room Rates, contact Tauhai Garden Beach Resort & Spa Facebook Page 

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT:

Campalabo Islet

Sinangkulan Falls

Udlom Falls

Looie Beach Resort

Kamangon Cave

Lamac Hidden Valley Mountain Resort

Park Place Beach Resort

Seaside Haven Beach Resort

Ulbohan Spring

Another summer day, another resort to visit, another travel experience!

After a pool visit at The Ranch Resort in Toledo City last April 09, 2015, we seem to have not had enough of swimming. The following day, April 10, we had mom accompany us and head to Pinamungajan (a neighboring municipality of Toledo). Our destination - Tauhai Garden Beach Resort and Spa. 

The resort was like no other resort in the area. It had a different ambiance. The entry was magical - an arched pathway that was surrounded with (i-don't-know-what-kind-of-plant) vines. The place was rather a warm escape from a city. The place brought back memories of my grandmother's old ancestral home - very quiet, very cozy, very warm, very homey.

The garden resort is great for people who love some peace and quiet. It has 4 family suites, 2 family rooms, 2 barkada rooms, and open beach cottages. It has 2 pools which are great for non-stop swimming. Since the resort is very homey, the area can be booked for exclusive events. It is very ideal for garden weddings and wedding receptions. The owner is very accommodating and will be a great help with planning events.

It was a relaxing and rejuvenating day! Everything was just amazing. There were no other guests around so we had the place to ourselves. Tauhai has great food choices for its guests as well. The resort is good for team-building activities too.

You may contact them via mobile phone 0999 881 6049 or 0917 858 9179 or through email tauhai.cebu@gmail.com. Visit Tauhai Beach Resort and experience the same homey experience we had.

 

 

Toledo City: The Ranch Resort

Check out: https://travellingandbeyond.com/

LOCATION:

Bato, Toledo City, Cebu (westcoast of Cebu)

FESTIVAL:

Hinulawan Festival (June 12)

FEES: (as of April 2015)

Bus Fare from Cebu South Bus Terminal to Toledo (70.00)

Van Fare from Cebu Citilink to Toledo City (100.00)

Tricycle Fare from Toledo Terminal to Tricycle Terminal for Bato (8.00)

Tricycle Fare from Tricycle Terminal to Bato (est 15.00)

The Ranch Entrance Fee (100.00)

Farm Tour (75.00)

Farm Tour with Golfcart (125.00)

Horseback Riding (100.00)

Zipline (150.00)

Cottages and Cabanas (300.00 to 500.00)

Standard Room good for 2 (est 2000.00)

Junior Suite Room for 2 (est 3000.00)

Extra Person (est 540.00)

     (for queries, contact (032)318 9599, 0917 3115 881, info@ranchresort.com.ph)

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT:

Manguyakuya Falls

Cambang-ug Spring

Cantabaco Cave

Bulongan Cave

Malubog Lake

San Juan de Sahagun Shrine

San Pedro Calungsod Shrine

Ilihan World War II Foxholes

DAS Mines View Park

Lebumfacil Ancestral House

Springpark Mountain Resort

It's summer once again!

In the west coast of Cebu lies the industrial city of Toledo. Toledo, once known to be a copper mining capital in Asia, has developed its industrial zone along its neighboring municipalities. In the midst of continued industrial growth, there are still parts of the city where a relaxing vibe is a "go-to". One of which is The Ranch Resort. Owned and operated by the Gaite Family, the resort started welcoming guests a few years ago. 

 

Summer will never be complete without a cool refreshing dip. In The Ranch, 5 different pools will cater to those needs. The pools are not more than 5 feet deep, suitable for non-swimmers (but boring to most pool lovers). Like most resorts, swimming attires are strictly implemented. Bringing of food from outside is not allowed since they have their own restaurant. Food prices range from 100.00 and up. 

Inside the vicinity, various activities are offered. They have the farm tour (which includes the visit to the aviary, bee farm and the whole ranch), horseback riding, a zip line, trampolines, and biking. The Ranch is suitable for team-building activities.

Cousins from Catmon came to visit last April 09, 2015. The Ranch Resort was what they had in mind for their summer get-away. The whole day was hot - seriously, it was very hot! The heat of the sun was a pain on the skin. The air was humid. I advise you to bring your sunscreen lotions, face towels, and extra shirts. Drink plenty of water to avoid heat stroke. Most of them took a swim while the others kept under the shade. At 4 o 'clock in the afternoon, the sun's rays aren't as painful anymore.

 

We enjoyed our day at the Ranch except for the hot weather. It was a okay and we had a good bonding experience. It was a day worth spending with them. But since it was Kuya Keith's treat, the monetary spending was under his care. Haha.

kuya Keith :)

    

Enjoy your summer like we did!

Asturias: Policios Waterpark Resort & Spa

Check out: https://travellingandbeyond.com/

LOCATION:
Asturias, Cebu (northwestern coast of Cebu)

FESTIVAL:
St Roche (Aug 16)

FEES: (as of April 2015)
Bus from Cebu to Sta Lucia Asturias (est. 150.00)
Sta Lucia Drop-off to Policios (est. 20.00)
Rooms good for 4-6 pax non-aircon (1500.00 - 1800.00)
Rooms good for 9-10 pax aircon (2000.00 - 3000.00)
Pool Usage (150.00)
or visit their facebook page

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT:
Cabo San Miguel Resort
Malabago Beach Resort
Sta. Lucia Parish Church
Wakiki Beach Resort
Tubigagmanok (fresh water in the sea)
St. Francis Parish 
Buswang Lake

Under the heat of the sun and with summer's warmest welcome, nothing beats a dip in a pool. It was the annual Visita Iglesia, April 02, 2015. Last year, our route was bound south ending in Aloguinsan (a municipality). This year, our parents decided to head north. So from Toledo City, our target was to reach Tuburan (another municipality). From San Juan de Sahagun Shrine (in Toledo City), we managed to visit another 5 more parishes. Since there is a need to visit 7 parishes or churches, we still lacked one. After our sixth parish in Sta. Lucia, we decided to continue and head to Tuburan. Before we even reached a kilometer heading North, mom saw a newly renovated property. 

Entering the premises, we saw that it had a pool. A pretty sight, this resort has the coolest cottages within the area. Here's what we saw inside. 

 

 

They didn't have a brochure. You can find them on facebook and leave them a message for inquiries. You can also contact them thru 0927 563 8424. They are open 24 hours.

To arrive in Policios Waterpark, from Cebu, you will have to ride a bus (in Cebu South Bus Terminal) bound for Tuburan. There are vans for hire (in Ayala van parking) bound for Tuburan. Fares are not more than 200. You may inform the bus attendant or "konduktor" to drop you off near Sta. Lucia. From the bus drop-off, you may ride a "habal-habal" or a tricycle bound for Policios. The fare would not cost you more than 20 pesos.

If you are from Toledo (like me), you will still have to ride a bus bound for Tuburan. Less fare will be spent. The same drop-off and a "habal-habal" ride will bring you to Policios.

Note that it is very hot in there, but there are a lot of shade.

I have friends who have visited the place and had the worst reviews. First, the resort charges you for the entrance fees even when you avail of the rooms. The fees are 120.00 for adults and 100.00 for kids aged 3 and above. The room, which was claimed to cater 10 persons, only had a double bed (how can 10 persons sleep on a double-sized bed). Additional mattresses were charged 250.00 each, which is too much. The pools were not properly cleaned (it's murky). Also, take note that it is advisable to bring with you OFF Lotion because there are many (I mean, very very many) mosquitoes. 

Catmon: Bagalnga Shores

LOCATION:

Catmon, Cebu (northern part of Cebu)

FESTIVAL:

Budbod Kabog Festival (February 10)

FEES:  (as of January 2015)

Bus Fare from North Bus Terminal to Catmon (est. 80.00)

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT:
Esoy Hot Spring
Imelda Aroma Paradise Mountain Waterpark
Catmon Stone Church
Huna-huna Beach Resort
Las Flores Beach & Hotel Resort
Catmon Seaside Park Resort
Banzon Beach
Lumanoy Caves and Spring
Mt, Tabayag
Duyan Hot Spring
Binongkalan Beach Resort

If Boracay has white sand beaches, Bagalnga has these brown sand beaches. Well, comparing both isn't really something but if the purpose of visiting the beach is to unwind, these beaches are free for all.

We've stayed in this place for a number of summers and holy weeks. With our relatives around, Bagalnga has never been a boring residence. I have had a lot of first times in this place. Here, I first learned how to partially swim (I'm not a good swimmer, just a couple of breaststrokes and I'm already exhausted, lol). I had my first leg cramps after a long (seems like it) swim. I had my first campfire with my cousins (memorable campfires). I learned how to play mahjong and tong-its (lol we are known gamblers, just kidding) and so much more (more as in I could no longer recall hehe). We held a couple of reunions here as well, which most of the family members do not attend because of derby fights (like I said, our family members are known gamblers, I'm not proud, I just feel like saying it).

I miss Mama Pet (my grandma). I miss everyone. Now that all my playmates have become grown-ups, it is harder to get everyone together. Mishaps and misunderstandings within family members are inevitable, but we believe we are one heart, one blood, one family - Baylon-Jorquia Family.

Dalaguete: Dakong Bato Beach & Leisure Resort

Check out: https://travellingandbeyond.com/

LOCATION:
Dalaguete, Cebu (southern part of Cebu)

FESTIVAL:
Utanon Festival (February 9 - 10)

FEES: (as of October 2014)
Bus Fare from South Bus Terminal to Dalaguete (est. 110.00)
Room Rates (1600.00 - 4900.00)
     Standard Room non-aircon 2pax (1600.00)
     Double Seaview Room A 2 pax (2200.00)
     Double Seaview Room B with balcony 2 pax (2700.00)
     Double Seaview Room C with balcony 2 pax (3000.00)
     Double Room 2 pax (2700.00)
     Triple Room with veranda 3 pax (3000.00)
     Triple Seaview Room with veranda 3 pax (4700.00)
     Quad Room 4 pax (3000.00)
     Quad Seaview Room A with balcony 4 pax (3000.00)
     Quad Seaview Room B (4400.00)
     Family Seaview Room A with balcony 6 pax (3500.00)
     Family Seaview Room B with balcony 6 pax (4900.00)
     Family Seaview Room C with loft and balcony 8 pax (4900.00)
     Family Mountainview Room with loft 8 pax (4400.00)
     Barkada Seaview Room with long veranda 8 pax (4900.00)
      http://www.dakongbato.com/rates.html

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT:

Obong Spring

Osmena Peak

Mercado's Peak

Bandera Peak

Kulabyaw Cave

Kampakas Cave

Lagnason Creek

Lugsangan Rock Formations

Gakub Spring
Dingayop Waterfalls
Mantalongon Highlands
San Guillermo de Aquitania Church, Rectory, and Belfry
Casa Real (municipal hall)
Poblacion Watchtower
Obong Watchtower
Archbishop Manuel Salvador Museum
Crispin Almagro Ancestral House
Cristo Rey de Mantalongon (10-meter monument)
Sta. Monica Parish Church

A few months back, my ex-beau gave me a treat - a weekend trip. It was a rejuvenation trip after all the hassle and stressful activities I have had for the past few months. We decided to visit Dakong Bato Beach and Leisure Resort. He has never traveled south before and that was our first time to travel together outside Toledo or Cebu City. 

Dakong Bato which means "big rock" was associated with a famous Visayan folklore - the story of Maria Cacao. She was said to be half immortal who made the "big rock" the docking place of her golden ship. Her ship carried the cacao she brings to different islands. Her being immortal made the rock increase in its size. And after centuries, the stone has been known to have been continually growing (as legend tells it). The huge rock has been identified as a landmark in your entry to the municipality.

The resort is located in Barangay Coro. From Cebu South Bus Terminal, you will need to ride a bus bound south. Buses bound for Alcoy or Oslob pass through Dalaguete. You may ask the Bus Terminal Operators for information. While on board the bus, inform the attendant "bus konduktor" that you are to be dropped at Dakong Bato Beach and Leisure Resort. You may also contact the resort for details. (032) 484-4003 or info@dakongbato.com, you may also visit their website for further info www.dakongbato.com.

 

Double Seaview Room with balcony

From the room's balcony is a wondrous sight. The sea water glistens as the sun touches its surface. The serenity of the crystal waters gives you a moment of awe. The room is well-lit and tidy, with a lamp on one side of the bed and a coffee table in one corner of the room. The bathroom has a hot and cold shower. It had the needed toiletries. The air-conditioning system is functioning fine. The pool is well maintained. Like most resorts, one is allowed to use the pool only in a swimming attire. Cotton made clothes and garments are not allowed. The pool, I believe, closes at 9 or 10 in the evening.

The resort has a restaurant. The walls are painted with yellow and orange - the colors (including red) known to induce hunger for these colors appear more among many foods. The ambiance is amazing. Its location, at the top portion of the cliff, lets you enjoy the view of the magnificent sea. The majestic waves and the clear blue sky de-stresses your mind. They have a variety of food and I suggest that you order their "beef tapa", the meat is tender which somehow melts in your mouth and it has an authentic flavor (couldn't compare its flavor with anywhere else). It opens at 7.30 in the morning (I think) but it surely closes at 8 or 9 in the evening. 

 at the resort's restaurant

Beef tapa

 

 

We were able to visit their parish church before we headed home. From Dakong Bato Resort, you have to ride a tricycle (fare 10.00) going to the church.

You may visit their municipal hall, Casa Real. If you will visit Dalaguete, you will have to check this beautiful architecture. But one thing I hated about the whole travel experience is that it was very, very hot.

Cebu City: Moonleaf Tea Shop

July 13, 2014
(with Roel and Dan)
photo source: www.google.com

 

Roel likes milk teas. He adores this drink. Dan, on the other hand, is not a fan of it but we made him into one. LOL.

It was one of those school days when we have nothing else to do. Studying is something to do but we opt not to think about it (haha). Both guys share the same love I have - my love for food. Moonleaf was a discovery I wanted to share with both guys.

Although not as popular as coffee, the milk tea craze is continually growing over the years. With the increasing number of different milk tea stores that cater a variety of milk tea flavors, this surely proves milk teas are being patronized by many. Most people nowadays try to consume food that is more "healthy", thus the boom of the milk tea industry.

Moonleaf Tea Shop was opened in October of 2010 by businessman, Adrian Adriano, in Quezon City. What started as a small establishment now has 42 branches all over the Philippines with an additional upcoming franchise openings in Indonesia. The brand was easily recognized due to its unique taste and quality. Everyone with the cravings for tea will fall in love with Moonleaf.

One of their milk tea stores is located at Pelaez St., Cebu City, near the University of San Carlos. I live nearby and I get to visit it as often as I want to. You see, it tastes really good. I recommend it.

The price ranges from 70 to 100 pesos - an inexpensive refreshing drink.

It was early in 2015 when the store closed and transferred to a different location.

Catmon: Esoy Hot Spring

LOCATION:
Catmon, Cebu (northern part of Cebu)

FESTIVAL:
Budbod Kabog Festival (February 10)

FEES: (as of February 2014)
Bus Fare from North Bus Terminal to Catmon (est. 80.00)
Entrance (150.00)
Vest (25.00)
Cottage (250.00 - 350.00)
Motorcycle Fare from Hi-way to Esoy Hot Spring (30.00)

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT:
Imelda Aroma Paradise Mountain Waterpark
Catmon Stone Church
Huna-huna Beach Resort
Las Flores Beach Hotel & Resort
Catmon Seaside Park Resort
Banzon Beach
Lumanoy Caves and Spring
Mt. Tabayag 
Duyan Hot Spring
Binongkalan Beach Resort

A few of months ago, my cousins and I decided to go out for a trip. It was our first bonding experience since I finished college. Too bad our other cousins were busy and nowhere near the site.

My mom grew up in Catmon. It's a municipality situated in the Northern part of Cebu next to Carmen. From Cebu City, you'll pass by a few municipalities before reaching the center town of Catmon. Next to Cebu City comes Mandaue City, heading north you'll pass by Consolacion, Lilo-an, Compostela, Danao City, and Carmen. If you are from Toledo City (like me), you may travel via different route. Going North, you will pass the municipalities of Balamban, Asturias, and Tuburan. In Tabuelan, there is an intersection, going North and going East. You should head east which is bound for Sogod, once you reach the national high way, travel south, the next municipality is Catmon. 

Last February 16, 2014, we decided to visit ESOY HOT SPRING in Catmon, Cebu - my birth place. One of my cousins had introduced the idea of visiting the hot spring located in a mountainous barangay of the municipality.

Esoy Hot Spring not only has the "hot spring", but also has the river and the falls. The scenery was marvelous. The hanging bridge was what scared me the most (because I weigh heavier than most people and because I'm afraid to fall off of it). You would really think twice about the bridge (I did). You'd wonder if it is sturdy. However, the fun started when I was able to cross the bridge (whew, I was still alive). 

Once you cross it, your adventure begins. 

Along the huge rocks by the river, you need to either move around it or climb it just so you can reach the falls. But even so, I don't recommend you to bring anything else other than yourself. I brought with me my phones for picture-taking purposes (stupid idea), but because I had a hard time climbing over the rocks (I'm pretty short), I had to cross the river and got my phones real wet, as in soaking wet (luckily both still work).

To reach the falls, a 7-minute trek is all you have to endure. Here are some of the photos I took before my phones took a dip.

 

cousins

From Cebu, you may ride a bus going north with a fare ranging from 60.00 to 100.00 pesos. Once you arrive in Catmon, you could ask for directions. The Hot Spring is a couple of kilometers going up the mountains. Although you may reach it by foot, I advice you to ride the motorcycles. The fare ranges from 25.00 to 35.00 pesos. Once you get there, an entrance fee of 130.00 to 150.00 will have to be paid, which is inclusive of the vest. They sell drinks and chips.