The Archives: Iloilo

I am republishing my post on our several trips to Iloilo starting last 2008, taken from my old blog. We were invited to go to Iloilo as my husband participated in an event for the Dinagyang Festival and a couple of other events. We are definitely looking forward to seeing more of the province and its neighboring provinces.

Some of the many faces at the Dinagyang Festival, honoring Sto. Niño

HOW WE GOT THERE

We got there by plane, landing at the Iloilo International Airport, which was very nice. Though one can take the bus from Cubao or Alabang, and the ro-ro from Batangas to Mindoro, then Caticlan, then road trip to Iloilo. Bus lines such as Philtranco, Alps, Ceres and Dimple Star regularly ply this route.

WHAT TO DO THERE

See and experience the Dinagyang Festival - Held on the fourth Sunday of January, various tribes dance and battle it out in a competition and parade around the city. We walked around the city while watching the parade. See genuine smiles! Photo op!

Schedule a side trip to Guimaras! - With the Island only 15 minutes away, who can resist?
                                         

The Miag-ao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

WHAT TO SEE:

Churches - There is a church/Cathedral for almost every district in Iloilo, most of them having their own remarkable history. Also, if you have the time and budget, take the road trip to town of Miag-ao to see the Miag-ao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The   Miag-ao Church is made of brick, put together with egg whites and limestones. Cool, huh? You'll also pass by a couple of nice churches and University of the Philippines Visayas campus en route to Miag-ao.

Jaro Belfry - the bell tower infront of the Jaro Cathedral. It is one of the few standalone bell towers in our country.

The Arroyo Fountain

J.M. Basa St. and "Old Downtown" - Very nice old buildings, reminiscent of the Spanish colonial era. We were told that the area used to be the commercial district, similar to what Escolta was in Manila. We were also told that the elite of Iloilo used to live in the area and first casino in Iloilo was there (not implying that's directly related information. Hehe!).

The Obelisk Marker and the Arroyo Fountain - Both are in the city, relatively walking distance from each other. The Obelisk Marker is situated in Plazoleta, which is where the Ilonggos stage rallies from the time of the People Power Revolution in 1986 until today. The Arroyo Fountain, named after Frmr. Sen. Jose Maria Arroyo, it serves as the zero marker for the city, like Manila's Rizal Park.

The Old Harbor - Just nice to see for its old-world feel.

WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT:

Deco's and Ted's for the La Paz Batchoy - There are plenty of outlets around the city, and I strongly suggest you try both Deco's and Ted's to compare an find out which suits your taste better. Make sure you grab puto Manapla, too. But if you really want the authentic batchoy, go to the La Paz market and get a serving there. Try all three if you can, just for the sake of comparison. We did! Haha!

La Paz Batchoy and Puto manapla! Yum!

Breakthrough – Get your seafood fix! You can choose what you like and have it cooked the way you want, matched with the very relaxing breeze and ambience music that is the ocean.

Tatoy’s Manukan – They serve good native chicken inasal (barbecued chicken) and served seafood as well, at very affordable prices.
Allan's - Located in Oton, en route to Miag-ao. We had hito (catfish), kinilaw (ceviche) and bangus (milkfish) and ended up with a very small price to pay for all we ate. With a food trip this cheap, we don't complain and just take advantage!
Doming's - A favorite of regular travellers to Miag-ao and students at the University of the Philippines (case in point our friend Ana), they serve oysters at an insanely affordable price of just PhP20.00 for a small basin. You can have yours either blanched or grilled.

Fresh oysters by the basin!

Bourbon Street, Smallville - Good ribs, tapa, etc. and they also have a DJ playing every night so it's also a good place to hang-out.

Toping's, Leganes - One of the two good places where you can get a sumptuous feast of seafood. Leganes is about 30 minutes from the city proper, accessible by jeep and/or taxi.

Roberto's - This is located in the "Chinatown" of Iloilo, near Iznart. If you're lucky, you must try their Queen siopao - bacon, chinese sausage, chicken pork adobo and egg all in one platito-sized siopao.

WHAT TO BRING HOME:

What else but goodies from Biscocho House (butterscotch, biscocho, toasted mamon, etc.)! They have branches all over so no need to worry.

WHERE TO STAY:

We've stayed at The Summerhouse (Iloilo Midtown Hotel), Days Hotel, and Century 21 Hotel. All have pretty good rooms and rates. And all are walking distance from SM Delgado.

Taken at Leganes, Iloilo using Vivitar UWS plastic camera

Iloilo is a very interesting place for the mind, the heart and most of all for the tummy. Anyone who's a foodie must go to Iloilo and eat to his/her heart's content.

Cebu R&R - Plantation Bay Version

I am writing about our Plantation Bay escape in a separate entry to give justice to the experience. Besides, I obviously have a lot to say and it would be terrible to cramp it all up in one entry.

With just an hour of sleep and only airport noodle soup for breakfast, imagine our relief when the accommodating staff of Plantation Bay attended to us and escorted us to the van in less than 5 minutes from when he saw us. Upon arrival, we went to the room, dropped off our bags, and headed straight to one of the restaurants.

Photos taken at Fiji and a photo of part of Plantation Bay's shoreline.

We ended up at Fiji, the Asian food outlet of Plantation Bay. The ambience is very relaxed, still with a tropical touch with the help of the seat covers, and the paintings that have been there since the resort opened. The paintings remind me of the works of Fernando Amorsolo – very beautiful. We ordered and were very satisfied with the grilled platter, which had clams, prawns, salmon, and lobster. They also make their own ice cream, so do try this out. I tried the peanut butter chocolate ice cream and I must say that it’s one of the best ones I’ve had so far. It has the right kick of peanut butter yet it doesn’t overpower the flavor of the chocolate.

Too bad we weren’t able to go for a swim as the weather wasn’t cooperating for most of our trip (Typhoon Gener was in the country at the time). We were also only able to walk around the ‘community’ just a little bit as it was drizzling most of the time. I’m sure it would be lovely to take leisurely strolls around the resort.

What amazed me at Plantation Bay was that they had all of the items we asked for on their menu. We had dinner at Palermo, the Italina/Spanish/Meditteranean outlet. We ordered a serving of Jamon Serrano and their cheese platter to start, plus their bread and some olives. We also ordered the puttanesca, which was recommended by the waiter. Yes, it’s a bit “safe”, but some hotels and restaurants still don’t do it well – and for your information, they do. I was also impressed by how they actually have on stock the selection of wines they have on their menu. We got a bottle of sparkling wine to celebrate.

Our bottle of Brut, Kilimanjaro Kafé, their thick hot chocolate, and the goodies that fill the welcome basket.

The accommodation rates do not include breakfast, which can be a bit of a hassle to some people like us, but very practical also. Kilimanjaro Kafe is the go-to outlet for any meal of the day. We aren’t breakfast eaters, so the buffet breakfast was too much for us. There was of course the option to order ala carte. We had the usual native sausage and hot chocolate set. Theirs is by far the thickest hot chocolate I’ve had my entire life. The server said they dip churros in their hot chocolate as they cook it, resulting in the thick texture and the atypical, interesting taste. The ambience and look of the café is very pleasant as well, exuding a calm, old-world vibe.

Get a massage, too at the Mogambo Springs Spa. The spa has a zen feel to it, with the massage “huts” a good distance apart form each other and the grounds of the spa having Japanese-inspired architecture and a very serene look and feel. The massage was heavenly.

The lovely space that is the Mogambo Springs Spa at Plantation Bay, and the couple's massage room.

We also felt weird not being able to leave tips. It’s odd when the staff actually deserve to be given tips, yet you’re not allowed to. We tried to leave change twice, and on both occasions, the waiter ran after us and gave us our change. But don’t fret, according to their Don’t Panic Booklet (which you get upon check-in), the employees and staff at Plantation Bay are compensated above standard wage and have benefits that most resorts and hotels do not give their workforce. Really good to know.

I could have taken more and even better photos if only the weather would permit. We also weren’t able to do much in Plantation Bay, which is why we definitely intend to go back!

The view from our balcony: Kilimanjaro Kafe and one of the lagoons at Plantation Bay.

For those who’d like to read more, check their website which is refreshingly straight to the point and devoid of the usually videos and photo slideshows and other website frou-frou.

More on our Cebu July 2012 trip here.

Cebu Round Four – Diet? What diet?

I am writing about my fourth trip to Cebu. Why just now?

Well, my first trip to Cebu was when we were actually headed to Bohol, thus it was really just a stopover. My second trip to Cebu was when I attended the Advertising Congress way back when I was in college (2004). I went with my dad who brought me to Tabo-an to buy dried danggit and other fish and seafood like squid, etc. It was also the first (and hopefully not the last) time I had AA Barbecue’s Lechon Baka. On that trip, I remember having a photo taken with my then celebrity crush Matteo Guidicelli, whom at that time was know not as an actor, but as a kart driver. That just about summed up my trip.

My third trip to Cebu was for a wedding we did in Shangri-La Mactan. Though I wasn’t able to leisurely explore sights, we had ample time to look around and eat out.

This fourth trip was scheduled in time for our second wedding anniversary. We got a groupon for a 3D/2N package for two to Bantayan Island. So my plan was for us to spend a night in Mactan or in the city, then head to Bantayan Island for the rest of the trip.

I will write only about what we did during this trip, which doesn't include Bantayan Island as all ferry trips were cancelled due to the storm warning. I'll also post our pleasurable experience at Plantation Bay in another entry to keep this form being too long. 

This, in my opinion, is one of the nicest tributes to Dolphy by someone whose life he touched.
Filipino artists are just amazing!

HOW WE GOT THERE:

There are a number of airlines flying to Cebu from various major cities in the Philippines. We took Zest Air, which operates from the Old Domestic Terminal. We arrived in Mactan an hour late, probably due to Manila runway congestion or the strong winds brought about by typhoon Gener.

WHAT WE DID AND WHAT WE SAW:

Magellan’s Cross – Quite possibly the most popular tourist destination in Cebu, it’s the exact location where explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted the cross when they arrived in 1521, which sparked the beginning of Christianity in the Philippines. The saying “it’s what’s on the inside that matters” applies to this particular instance, as the tindalo cross you see encases the original cross Magellan planted himself.

The Basilica de Sto. Niño,
possibly the most famous landmark in Cebu

Basilica de Sto. Niño – The Church and convent was built in 1565, but was destroyed a couple of times. The Church we see today was built in 1737. The image of the Sto. Niño that is venerated in the Church is also the same figure that was brought by the Spaniards when they arrived in the 1500s, led by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi. You can line-up to be able to say a short prayer to the Sto. Niño at the left side of the Church, at the hallway between the courtyard and the main area of the Church. There is a multitude of candle vendors selling candles for you to offer (and not light as this is prohibited) for thanksgiving to Sto. Niño or to the patron saint of your liking.

Lapu-Lapu Shrine – Remember that guy Magellan, who planted the cross? Well, this guy killed him in a bloody battle between the first inhabitants and the colonizers. Lapu-Lapu was a Datu, a native leader, similar to a king. He led the natives in the Battle of Mactan wherein they revolted against the Portugese explorer and his men. The bronze statue gives honor to the first man who fought for our country and can aptly be called the Philippines’ first hero.

WHERE AND WHAT WE ATE:

The husband/boyfriends of these ladies must be afraid of them. She chopped the lechon in half in just one swing!

CnT Lechon – Basic: lechon, lumpia, puso. If you want a bit more, try adding pansit. Best to come for lunch as they only cook a certain number per day. Should you decide to eat lunch at their main restaurant in Guadalupe (1377 Rama Ave.) or their branch at the Reclamation area (across SM) for lunch, be sure to make a reservation ([032] 254-4249, [032] 254-6641), or arrive really early (like 10:30am) or late (like 1:30pm) to avoid the long queue.

When you get there, grab a number and wait for your number to be called. If you are already called and the part you desire is no longer available, you can opt to have the others “overtake” you, then you’ll just be given priority in choosing your part of choice when they open the next one. Choosing of a particular part makes the process longer actually. When we went for the wedding in May, we had to wait an hour (!) for our number to be called. Luckily, they had just opened one when our turn came. So naturally, I chose the mid, bottom/under portion of the belly. Worth every minute and every calorie! As the saying goes, “good things come to those who wait.”

Or, you may just head to the food court of SM or Ayala Center. But should you wish to bring back home some lechon, the main branch or the Reclamation are your options. They pack the lechon very well anyway, so it saves you some hassle.

AA Barbecue – AA Barbecue is quite possibly one of the most popular sugba (grill) joints in Cebu. I first tried AA’s when we went to Cebu for the Ad Congress. My dad and I had the lechon baka. I recall the baka being very tender and full of flavor. Which is why this time, I insited that we go to Lahug where their main branch is, to make sure there’s lechon baka. Unfortunately, upon arrival, I discovered that they no longer serve the lechon baka and only do so very rarely. This broke my heart. But of course, we can’t let a setback rain on our parade. So we still got a few things we liked: tender-to-the-bone pork ribs, flavorful fish, chicken fillet and my favorite, their grilled squid squares. What I like most about their grilled squid is that it’s so tender and tasty that you know for sure it’s fresh and cooked right. For first-timers, upon arrival, go to the counter, get a tray and choose your goodies. When done, hand them over to the counter and they will cook it for you. You must also try their tropical twister cooler, which is similar to four seasons but has slices of about 5 different fruits. Truly refreshing!

The Boneless Lechon Belly, Bangus Tinapa,
Lomboy and Iba Shake, and the dipping sauce of
vinegar, chili oil and soy sauce. 

Zubuchon – In tribute to foodies, I just had to try Zubuchon – the restaurant that rose from the exposé of Anthony Bourdain on the Cebu Lechon. Zubuchon takes pride in not using MSG, buying native pigs from independent growers, using olive oil, and doing lechon the old fashioned way (think pigs slowly roasting on bamboo poles over a bed of charcoal). They also puncture the lechon which gives it a distinct character and gives the skin the Zubuchon crisp and texture. I’ve tried the boneless pork belly and the pritchon style. I must say I like the belly better. We also tried their kalabasa soup, pickled vegetables, and the tinapang bangus belly with onions, tomatoes and salted egg (definite winner!). Cool down with their iba (kamias) or lomboy (duhat) shake and finish off with the budbud kabug – suman made with millet seeds, cooked with coconut milk in banana leaves. The budbud is best consumed hot.

Spice Fusion – If you want a break from all the walking around and lechon munching, try Spice Fusion in SM Reclamation. The restaurant serves Asian food and I must say they are quite good at it. We had sweet and sour fish, salt and pepper pork, and steamed garlic kaylan, which we all loved.

The Husband and my Churros con Chocolate

Tablea Chocolate Cafe – We looked for Tablea mainly because a foodie friend requested us to get her packs of instant chocolate from here. Knowing she has good taste in food, I knew I had to grab a cup for myself. So I ordered the Chocolate con Churros, while husband ordered a cup of their basic hot chocolate. We weren’t disappointed. In fact, I finished the churros, and even asked the servers for some milk to add to the dipping chocolate so I can drink it (as it was too thick to drink). In the end, we didn’t just buy for my friend -  we bought a few packs for ourselves, too!

WHAT WE BROUGHT HOME:

Dried Mangoes – One of the things Cebu is famous for. The Philippines is probably the biggest, if not the lone exporter of dried mangoes to the U.S.A. and the world. There are several good brands to choose from, depending on each person’s taste. I strongly suggest you try several brands so you’ll find the one to your liking.

Lechon – Once family or friends in Manila (or wherever it is you’re from) find out you’re headed to Cebu, it’s usually lechon they ask you to bring home. After all, Cebu lechon is indeed the most popular of  provincial lechon in the Philippines. As to what brand, well, to each his own really. We are still trying to explore the differences in taste specifically for the take-home lechon.

WHERE WE STAYED:

Lowaii Recreation Area

Lowaii Cebu Marine Resort (Suba Basbas, Mactan; near Pacific Cebu resort and same road as Plantation Bay)

It’s far, and by that I mean FAR. Don’t get me wrong, there’s a lot to love about this place. The resort is designed in such a way that there are a few “common” native huts, with a Balinese-inspired look, casual and cozy vibe. They have modern furniture also in some areas, which adds spunk to the place. Couldn’t say I love the room, but I don’t get queasy thinking about it either. Can’t say I love the food, but it ain’t bad. What I’m most impressed with is that despite the resort’s being far out and the weather situation while we were there (strong winds and terrible rain), the employees were more than willing to respond to requests and remained courteous all throughout our stay. The kitchen staff even exerted extra effort when we asked for a box to put our excess baggage (they gave us the box of their osterizer, A+ for effort!).

Sto. Niño de Cebu as sold in the streets outside the Church

I’m very aware there is more to Cebu than just this, so I will write more entries whenever I go back to Cebu and explore more. Will keep you posted!:-)

Remembering Boracay

"Indian Man" with His Dog and the Boracay Sunset

The island never fails to take over me as soon as I even lay my eyes on it. I become this girl who is somewhat owned by the island, and I feel that I owe it to the island to give-in to it - be a free soul, living life to the fullest, no qualms, no worries and hopefully, no hangover. So how do I even write about a place that's constantly changing and evolving? I write about what I remember from all my trips there, as a sort of homage. 

HOW WE GET THERE:

There are several options to get to the island. Fastest and most convenient of course is through the Caticlan airport, with several airline companies plying the Manila - Caticlan route. From there, you can take a tricycle to the jetty port. The alternative for those who don't like taking small planes is via Kalibo, accommodating bigger planes.

Another option would be taking the bus from either Cubao, Manila, Alabang or Pasay stations of bus lines that have trips to Iloilo. Some of the popular bus companies that ply this route are Ceres, Dimple Star, Gasat and Alps.

The more adventurous alternative and could be the cheapest is to bring your own car or van and take the Nautical Highway. Quickly, here's the rough low-down on the route: Drive to the Batangas City Port, take the ferry to Calapan, Mindoro which will take about 2 hours. From Calapan, it's a 130-kilometer drive to the Roxas Port, which will take about 2 hours depending on how fats you drive. Though best to take your time as the scenery in Mindoro is very relaxing and gives a glimpse into the simple lives of people there. From there, it's another ferry ride which will take about 3.5 to 6 hours, depending on the ferry you'll chance upon. (Note: Ferry = Roll On - Roll Off ferries that load vehicles, cargo and passengers)

Diamond Watersports Parasail

WHAT TO DO THERE:

The Basics: swim, sunbathe, do water activities like the banana boat, flying fish, jetski, parasailing, etc.

Paraw's Sail, view from below

Ride the Paraw - best done in the afternoon, before the sun sets. Not as popular as the others mentioned above, but riding the paraw can be very exhilarating if the wind is strong and the waves are big. It can be very relaxing, too! (Believe me, I've fallen asleep while on it.)

Dive! - Boracay isn't as popular as a diving destination compared to Tubbataha, the Verde Passage or Bohol, but those who has seen the beauty of Boracay above the water should also be able to appreciate what's under the sea. There have been sightings of baby sharks, rays, octopus and other notable marine life. Go to New Wave Divers in Station 1 (very near Guilly's) for a quick fix!


Explore the Nightlife - With the abundance of establishments in the island, I'm pretty sure you'll find a place you'll have the knack for. Currently, it's Epic and Summer Place that tickles our thirst for liquor and dancing. At Summer Place, do yourself a favor and try the Shark Attack!

White Beach and the Grotto

WHAT TO SEE:

White Beach - where most of the action is! Enough is posted about this part of the island on other sites, so I'll keep it to a minimum. Worth mentioning is the grotto or Willy's Rock, where a statue of the Virgin Mary is erected.
Bulabog Beach - Parallel to White Beach, this is where a relatively opposite lifestyle thrives. The area is laid-back, quiet and there is less human traffic most of the time. It's home to Banana Saging, the first establishment in the area, and the "last native guesthouse" in the island.  It is also where kiteboarding thrives, so if you want to learn, scout for shacks offering lessons in this side of the island. It is also on this side that you can watch the sunrise.

Other Beaches in the Island - Diniwid, Puka, Punta Bunga, Balinghai, Cagban, Manoc-Manoc, Tambisaan, Lapuz-Lapuz and others. These beaches aren't as popular as White Beach and Bulabog, but these are worth mentioning as each has its own character and charm.

Sand Sculptures - The kids (and adults) are constantly improving their skills in this craft, making it another source of income for them. Take photos, but please make a kind donation.

Mt. Luho - This is the highest point in the island. Plenty of activities are available on the way up, and the views are also plentiful. Nuff said.

WHERE WE EAT:

Aria Cucina Italiana & Café del Sol - These two are just across each other in D'Mall. Aria serves good, reliable Italian fare every time. Café del Sol is its coffee shop, offering a selection of coffee, tea, coolers and some pastries. Must try their tiramisu. If you were lucky enough, you could have also experienced having the best bibingka in the island. They don't sell this anymore as the owners no longers produce the bibingka. Behind Aria is their gelato bar which serves good gelato, too.  

Ti Braz - What used to be Cafe Breizh, this is the home of french crepes in the island and is the "mother" of the more-known Café Breton in Manila. The same recipe used by Cafe Breizh was passed-on to the owner of Cafe Breton, same with the crepe pairings. 

Real Coffee - A place where feel-good breakfast food and shout-outs of "Good Morning!" is served all day. The Marc's Melt is hands-down a winner, while their Calamansi Muffins and their brownies are good enough to take home.

Jonah's Papaya Lemon

Cyma Greek Restaurant - Another island original. The Cyma chain of restaurants actually had their first branch in the island, which opened during the one of the December holiday seasons a few years back. This place was packed several days after its opening. Several years after, it's still patronized by foodies. Cyma Boracay is a must for our every visit to the island.

Jonah’s Fruitshake - A trip to the island will not be complete without getting a glass or two at Jonah's. My favorites in rotation are Banana Mocha Peanut, Mango Melon and Papaya Lemon. Their vegetable omelet is also perfect for early mornings, paired with the shake of choice and the beautiful view. During peak season, one must be patient as orders can take up to 30-45 minutes to prepare.

Jammers - Open 24 hours, Jammers is one of our go-to places after a night of drinking and dancing. They have good burgers and the like. My favorite is the Sloppy Joe.
Smoke Resto - What used to be just a small restaurant at the D'Mall talipapa now has a branch inside D'Mall. They serve a variety of dishes, from Kao Pad to Sinigang, Chili Omelets to Sizzling Bulalo. With food this affordable and yummy, you couldn't go wrong.
Jasper’s Tapsilog - We've been patrons of Jasper's from the time it was still a bungalow of light materials, serving 3 dishes aside from their staple tapsilog. Today, it's a two-storey building serving everyone from hotel staff to tourists. Try the Jasper's fried rice which is an entire meal in itself.
Also try Truefood Indian Cuisine. Haven't treid it yet as my companions are usually wary of trying out Indian food. But I keep it on my To Do List.

WHERE WE STAY:

Boracay Plaza - The only place we stay in the island. No frills, no fancy rooms, just basic accommodations. So why do we choose to stay here? So far, it has been a safe place for us to stay, not to mention its wonderful location. The rates here are more affordable compared to the neighboring hotels in Station 1.

Other places we've stayed at that are worth mentioning include Hey Jude! Hotel in D'Mall, Sienna's in Station 2, Lion's Den, etc. These mentioned either have good locations, cheap rooms, or nice, accommodation owners.

Remembering.. the places and things we once loved, now gone (or sort of)...

Cocomangas Beachfront and Vendors

Palomaria - Palomaria is that kind of place you love but want to keep a secret - relaxed vibe, nice set-up, good food. I believe it is now a B&B with a different name.

Hey Jude! - If only walls and tables could talk, I cannot imagine how long Hey Jude! would be telling stories. It was the venue of events and parties with foreign & local guests, and music from foreign and local DJs. It is now where Epic is.
Longgaburger & Ihaw Vendors - Ahh.. Foodtrips while drinking the night away.. The longgaburger and isaw fest - booze in one hand, ihaw on the other. How I miss those days. In efforts to keep the beach clean, the municipality now prohibits vendors at the beach. You can still catch some verndors along the road, though the experience ain't the same.
Cocomangas Beach Front - Cocomangas still exists to this day, however the beach front "branch" was where numerous stories were made - stories of drinking before the sun sets 'til drinking before dawn, barely standing due to their shakers and shooters, aching legs and feet from all the dancing in the sand. The beachfront location is now where Guilly's stands.
Gasthof - I miss their Baby Back Ribs. However, do not fret as I believe they have a branch at A Venue Mall along Makati Ave., Makati City.

Bulabog Beach Sunrise

I'll be publishing additional entries about Boracay from time to time, as it changes in every visit. Will keep you posted!:-)