Travels – Page 5 – One-Armed Wanderer

Iloilo
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Cheapest Islas de Gigantes Tour Package

Posted on August 28, 2016February 22, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

If you are planning to visit the beautiful Gigantes islands in Iloilo, finding a cheap yet complete Islas de Gigantes tour package is quite hard. There are a number of tour agencies offering Islas de Gigantes tour packages. Sadly, these tours can be as expensive as 7,000 per person.

Gigantes Hideaway Tourist Inn Resort’s Tour Package

Being budget travelers, Jen and I were determined to find the cheapest Islas de Gigantes tour package, luckily, we have found Islandgirltraveler’s blog featuring Gigantes Hideaway Tourist Inn Resort, a cheap accommodation in Islas de Gigantes. A commenter mentioned that he booked for a solo traveller tour package at an affordable price. We immediately contacted Sir Joel Decano, Gigantes Hideaway Tourist Inn owner. We asked for a quote for two persons and were surprised by the 3 days and 2 nights Islas de Gigantes tour package price.

gigantes hideaway resort — Gigantes Hideaway Tourist Inn Resort

2 nights and 3 days full board all in expenses good for 2 PAX package rate is 2,970 Pesos per person. Well, rates can be cheaper than 2,970 Pesos for group tours. Good deal, right?

Islas de Gigantes tour package includes the following:

Round trip Passenger boat ride from Estancia to/from Islas de Gigantes
private boat for island hopping tour in 5-6 islands
islands entrance fees
3 day and 2 night accommodation at Gigantes Hifeaway Tourist Inn
local island guide
cave guide
5 meals (family service seafood meals/unlimited rice/unlimited coffee),
motorbike fare for 3 days time

Basically, once you get to Estancia port or Carles port, gateway to Islas de Gigantes, you will just spend 10 Pesos for the terminal fee. The rest is included in the tour package! See my post on How to Get to Islas de Gigantes From Manila.

Islas de Gigantes Tour Package Itinerary

Day 1:

3:00 PM – Arrival at Islas de Gigantes
7:00 PM – dinner (Meal 1)

Day 2:

6:00 AM – Islas de Gigantes lighthouse
7:00 AM – Breakfast (Meal 2)
8:00 AM – 12 PM – Island Hopping
12:00 PM – Lunch (Meal 3)
12:00 PM – 3 PM – Island hopping
3:00 PM – 5 PM – Caving
7:00 PM – Dinner (Meal 4)

Day 3:

7:00 AM – Breakfast (Meal 5)
8:00 PM – boat leaves Islas de Gigantes

Bakwitan cave isla de iantes — Bakwitan Cave

A photo posted by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on Aug 20, 2016 at 3:43am PDT

Antonia Island Isla de giantes — Our tour guide, Jed at Antonia’s Island

3 Reasons why choose Gigantes Hideaway’s Islas de Gigantes tour package

Cheapest Islas de Gigantes tour package – This Islas de Gigantes tour package is by far the cheapest we have seen online. There are numerous travel agencies offering tour packages, however we find them too expensive. Gigantes Hideaway’s tour package may not include airport transfers from Iloilo City or Roxas City to Estancia or Carles port. Nonetheless, it is definitely cheaper and more fun if you commute from the airport to the ports of Estancia or Carles. See my post on How to Get to Islas de Gigantes From Manila. Additionally, the tour package is inclusive of sumptuous and generous servings of scallops and other seafood! Rice and coffee are unlimited too!

A photo posted by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on Aug 14, 2016 at 5:38am PDT

Personal guides – Unlike other tours, Gigantes Hideaway’s tour package includes personal guides. The moment you reach the Estancia port or Carles port, someone from the resort will meet and guide you the passenger boat. Once you arrive in Islas de Gigantes, your local and personal tour guide is waiting for you and will serve as your guide throughout your stay in Islas de Gigantes.

cheap tour package islas de gigantes

Private tour – Whether you travel solo, with a special someone or with your friends, you need not to worry about your privacy. You will not be forced to join a group of strangers while touring the islands. You will get to have your private bout during island hopping. A private cave guide. A private habal-habal service throughout your stay in the Islas de Gigantes. What more can you ask for?

Gigantes Hideaway Tourist Inn Contact Number

Joel de Cano – +63 9184685006

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Iloilo
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- Travels

How to Get to Islas de Gigantes From Manila

Posted on August 21, 2016April 9, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Is posing in Cabugao Gamay, the most popular island in Islas de Gigantes in your bucket list? Here is the cheapest and fastest way on how to get to Islas de Gigantes from Manila:

Islas de Gigantes is one among the many tourist attractions that is becoming popular among beach lovers and adventure seekers.

1. Fly from Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Roxas City, Capiz Province

Islas de Gigantes is located in the Northern part of Iloilo, however, if you will fly from Manila to Iloilo City, the total travel time (air and land travel) to Islas de Gigantes could take up to 7 hours. Geographically, Iloilo City is farther to Islas de Gigantes compared to Roxas City. Thus, the fastest way to get to the beautiful Islas de Gigantes is via Roxas City in Capiz which could take up to 5 hrs and 30 mins (air and land travel).

Flight from Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Roxas City is 1 hr and 10 minutes. You may book your flight ahead of time thru Philippine Airlines or the low cost and budget local airline – Cebu Pacific .

Tip: Book the earliest flight from Manila to Roxas City to catch the 1 PM boat trip from Estancia, Iloilo to Islas de Gigantes.

2. From Roxas City airport, ride a tricycle going to Ceres bus terminal

Roxas City Airport Philippines — Roxas City Airport

There are no jeepneys or taxis around the Roxas City city airport as the primary mode of transportation in the city are tricycles. Once your arrive in the airport, look for the tricycle terminal and tell the driver that you are going to Ceres bus terminal. Note that there are no standard tricycle tariff rates in Roxas City. In our case, we paid 200 from Roxas City Airport to Ceres bus terminal. Travel time is approximately 20 minutes.

Tips: Roxas City is known as the seafood capital of the Philippines. You may want to spend a night in Roxas City and indulge yourself to a seafood treat in Baybay. To avoid pricey tricycle fares around the city, visit my separate post How to travel like a local in Roxas City – soon.

3. In Ceres bus terminal, take a bus or a van going to Estancia in Iloilo

Ceres Bus Terminal Roxas Capiz — Ceres Bus Terminal

Bus fare from Roxas City, Capiz to Estancia in Iloilo is 81 Pesos and travel time could take from an hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours. Note that there are no air-conditioned buses to Estancia. Alternatively, taking a van to Estancia is faster. Fare is 75 and travel time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Note that vans are non-air-conditioned too.

4. In Estancia Bus Terminal, ride a tricycle to Estancia Port

From Estancia bus terminal, take a tricycle going to Estancia port. Fare is 60 pesos for special trip. If you are on a budget, fare for a single person is 15 Pesos but you will have to wait for other passengers bound to Estancia port. Travel time is approximately 10 mins.

5. Ride a passenger boat from Estancia Port to Islas de Gigantes

Estancia Port Iloilo Islas de Gigantes — Port of Estancia in Iloilo

In Estancia Port, pay 10 pesos for the terminal fee. Inform the tourism officer that you are going to Islas de Gigantes. Fare is 60 Pesos and the total travel time is 2 hours. Note that there is only 1 trip a day from Estancia Port to Islas de Gigantes. The boat promptly leaves at 1:00 PM. If in case you miss the 1:00 PM trio, hiring a private boat to Islas de Gigantes costs 4,500 Pesos.

Tip: Gigantes Hideaway resort’s Islas de Gigantes tour package includes the passenger boat ride fare from Estancia port to Islas de Gigantes. A personnel of the resort will meet you in the Estancia Port and will guide you to the passenger boat. Blog entry about the tour package will be posted soon.

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Metro Manila
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Venice in Manila: Venice Grand Canal Mckinley Hill Taguig

Posted on July 17, 2016June 24, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Located in the 50-hectare Venice Piazza under the development of Megaworld Corporation, The Grand Canal Mall’s Venice Grand Canal is fast becoming tourist hotspot in Taguig City. Inspired by Italy’s Venice Canal and Macau’s Venetian Grand Canal, wandering around the mall will make you feel you are in Venice or in Venetian Macau.

The Venice Grand Canal is the center of attraction among the tourists in The Grand Canal Mall. Due to its uniqueness and picturesque views, you will see countless visitors taking selfies and groupies by the canal. For first time visitors like me, it was such a delight to see the beautiful architecture resembling that of Venice. Being a mall, there is no entrance fee to see and enjoy the beautiful Venice Grand Canal.

The mall itself is yet to be completed. As of this writing, there are still many shops and stalls that are yet to open. Nonetheless, there is already a good number of restaurants in the mall, most of which are high-end and a bit pricey for budget travelers.

Restaurants, fastfoods and shops at The Grand Canal Mall

7 Soles
Alab
Almon Marina
Barenaked
Bench
Bose london
Boulangerrie22
Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
Buddy’s
Burger king
Cafe Mary Grace
Cafe Seolhwa
Caramia
Chiara’s Gelateria
Churreria La Lola
Coffee Bean Tea and Leaf
Comfort Tuesday
Cotton candy
Cuesina
Deli cieux
Easysoft
Elements
Empire bar
Erb and chet
Foresight
Galo
Gran caffè
Grand Cafe Lavena
Hearts arrows
Hokkaido Takoyaki
Jollibbee
KFC
Kusè
Little Manila
Man hann (opening soon)
Mati’s Meat and Bread
Milk Cow
Mitsuyado sei-men
Mu thai
Mumuso
Munch roasts and salads
My Thai Kitchen
Nacho Bimby
New Bombay Royal (opening soon)
Office warehouse
Oppo
Pepper Luch Express
Pho hoa
Pie Face
Ponte Rialto restorabte italiano
Ramen Kuroda
Rice and Dough
Rice Paper
S & R Pizza
Sbarro
Serenetea
Holland Tulips
Shakey’s
Shoe salon
Skin station
Sky castle
Starbucks Coffee
Sunglass Haven to
Sweet bites
TGI Fridays
Tgi fridays
The Meatball Revolution
The Travel Club
Toni & Sergio
Toy town
UCC
Watsons to o
Wok2go
World balance
Yellow Cab Pizza

Gondolas at The Venice Grand Canal

Just like that of Venice in Italy and Venetian in Macau, the Venice Grand Canal offers gondola ride that will cruise the entire stretch of the canal. The gondola ride costs 500 Php per person. This may be a bit pricey but seeing the mall’s architecture from the canal’s perspective must be a different experience. Gondola ride only operates during weekends from noon time until the mall closes at 10:00 PM.

Interestingly enough, to make your Venice Grand Canal gondola ride experience memorable, boat paddlers wear the traditional “gondolier clothing”. While watching gondolas cruising the canal, we have also witnessed one boat paddler singing a classical Italian song to his passengers.

How to get to Venice Grand Canal

Getting to McKinley Hill particularly the Venice Grand Canal by commute may be a bit difficult. Visit this link for the complete instructions on how to get to McKinley Hill.

Tip: Visit the Venice Grand Canal without any hassles. Enjoy 100 Pesos off on your first 2 Uber rides! Just use the promo code edp1000ue to avail the discount when you sign up here.

Hotels Near Venice Grand Canal

There are a couple of hotels nearby Venice Grand Canal. You may stay choose from Seda Hotel, Ascott or F1 Hotel Manila. (Read my full review of F1 Hotel Manila).

Overall, we enjoyed our quick visit to The Venice Grand Canal in McKinley. The place is unique and is new to Filipinos who have never visited Venice or Macau. Kudos to Megaworld Corporation for bringing a taste of Venice in Manila.

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Food
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Little Beijing Restaurant Karuhatan Valenzuela City

Posted on July 17, 2016July 17, 2016by One Armed Wanderer

Little Beijing is one among the few restaurants in Valenzuela City that is not located in malls or food centers. Located along McArthur highway in Barangay Karuhatan, Little Beijing Restaurant is literally a few steps away from Meaco Hotel and SM Center Valenzuela.

Little Beijing Restaurant Valenzuela City — Facade of Little Beijing Restaurant in Valenzuela City, Parking area is in front of the restaurant

From the name of the restaurant itself, Little Beijing serves Chinese cuisine. On their menu are the typical Cantonese dishes ranging from dimsums, seafoods, century eggs to noodles.

Little Beijing Restaurant Menu

Since we were staying at the nearby Meaco Hotel, we did not hesitate to check Little Beijing Restaurant for our late lunch. As we approach the entrance of the restaurant, we were greeted by the courteous security guard. As we entered, we were immediately assisted by one of the restaurant’s staff.

Staff

Interior

Interior

Little Beijing Restaurant’s interior is at par with that of famous Chinese Restaurants in the Metro. Fixtures look new and the entire place is clean. The cozy atmosphere sets Little Beijing apart from other Chinese restaurants in Valenzuela.

Since we visited for lunch, it was surprising that only a few tables were occupied. Compared to Golden Crown, another Chinese restaurant in Valenzuela, Little Beijing is less busy and more quiet. Perhaps due to the fact that Little Beijing Restaurant is more upscale than the former.

Food

We ordered Chicken with Cashew Nuts (220 Php) and Yangchao fried rice (220 Php) and Siomai (48 Php). While waiting for our orders, tea was served.

Little Beijing restaurant has a dimsum promo everyday from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM where dimsums are discounted. This promo is valid for orders placed between the said time. So we only paid 48 Php for the siomai instead of 70 Php.

Chicken with Cashew Nuts

Yang Chao

Siomai

We learned from the waiter that the Chicken with Cashew Nuts is a new addition to their menu. Given that I’m not really a fan of dishes with nuts, the dish was good. I loved the mixed vegetables and the cashew nuts complement to the overall taste of the dish. The Yangchao fried rice was also good and the serving was generous. What I loved the most is Little Beijing’s freshly steamed Siomai. It was tasty and by far one of the best siomai I’ve tasted!

Overall, we enjoyed our Little Beijing Restaurant dining experience. The staff, from security guard to the waiters are friendly. Food are good (especially the siomai). We are definitely coming back to try their other dishes!

Little Beijing Restaurant Valenzuela City

Contact Number / Delivery hotline: 63-2-4321352 / +63-2-7823924
e-mail: [email protected]
Address: 196 MacArthur Highway, Karuhatan
Operating Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM

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Food
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2 Hidden Budget Food Places in Poblacion Makati, Gabs & Tsabs

Posted on July 8, 2016July 16, 2016by One Armed Wanderer

During our budget staycation in Makati, Jen and I were determined to find cheap eats in the area. We left BRBlock Boutique and Residences for dinner and started driving in search for cheap food places in the country’s most expensive city.

Here are the 2 hidden eateries we discovered in Poblacion Makati that will surely satisfy your taste buds while not emptying your pocket:

Gabs Good Grabs

Located along Mabini street and is just few meters away from Makati Museum, Gabs Good Grabs is truly a hidden gem for budget conscious food lovers. This 24 hour diner offers a wide array of delicious and affordable food on their menu, from starters (starts at 30 Php), all day heavy breakfast (starts at 60 Php), rice meals (starts at 70 Php) to burgers and pastas (starts at 75 Php).

With its limited real estate, Gabs Good Grubs can accommodate approximately 20 diners at a time. We visited this hidden gem in Poblacion at around 10 PM and we had to wait several minutes as the place was fully occupied. As we entered the open air dining area of Gabs Good Grubs, we were greeted by the courteous waitress while handling us their menu.

Gabs Good Grub Menu

We ordered Seafood Ysabella, Supreme Salpicao and their signature Iced tea slush.

Seafood Yssabella (85 Php), mixed seafood in creamy sauce topped with Parmesan cheese served with rice and sides.

If you love seafoods and white sauce, you would never go wrong with Seafood Ysabela. The chopped fresh squids, shrimps and fish in creamy sauce is truly a must try! We super loved Seafood Ysabella! We even ordered a second plate of this yummy Gabs Good Grubs dish.

Supreme Salpicao (85 Php), combination of beef, shrimp and squid sauteed in soy garlic concoction served with rice and sides.

Given the affordability of Gabs Good Grubs rice meals, their generous serving (especially the rice) and plating/food presentation will make you think that you are not dining in an affordable food place in Makati.

Iced Tea slush (35 Php)

Location: 3273 A. Mabini St. cor. Doña Epifania St., Poblacion
Delivery contact Number: +63 2 6684340
Operating Hours: open 24 hours

Tsabs Sandwich Bar

This must visit food place is Poblacion is also located in A. Mabini street and is also few meters away from Makati museum.

Tsabs Poblacion Makati — Tsabs Sandwich Bar

If you are a burger lover, Tsabs Sandwich Bar has a pretty good selection of burgers. Choose among the 8 burgers on their menu, from the cheapest sulit Burger (50 Php) to their signature Tsabi Tsabs burger (145 Php).

Tsabs Sandwich Bar Menu

Unlike Gabs, Tsabs only has 2 small tables set-up in the street that can roughly accommodate 8 guests at a time.

We ordered cheeseburger (60 Php) and Bacon Mushroom Melt (120 Php).

Location 3259 A. Mabini Street, Poblacion, Makati City
Tsabs Contact Number: +63 9077725732
Operating Hours: 4 PM to 12 AM

Tip: I highly recommend to visit these places late night at there is only limited parking space in the area. Parking is at the front of Makati Museum.

Overall, we enjoyed the budget dining experience in Gabs Good Grub and Tsabs Sandwich Bar. If you are visiting Poblacion in Makati, forget Makati’s expensive restaurants and give these two budget-friendly food places a try!

Visiting Makati City? Book your hotel HERE.

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Cavite
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Do Not Visit Tagaytay People’s Park in the Sky Until You Read This

Posted on June 26, 2016February 25, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Old structure tagaytay people's park in the sky

Tagaytay People’s Park in the Sky is located in the summit of Mt.Gozales in Tagaytay City, Cavite. The park was originally an unfinished mansion known as the Palace In the sky which was built during the Marcos era. What’s left today is the unfinished and rusting structure of the supposedly mansion.

During our second day in Tagaytay, Jen and I left Crisanta’s Bed and Breakfast early to catch the sunrise at Tagaytay People’s Park in the Sky. We arrived at the park at around 6:30 AM and soon found out that it opens at 7:30 AM. As we waited, tourists started pouring in. We ended up falling in line as the park opens.

Schedule: opens everday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM

People's park tagaytay entrance — Park Entrance

Tagaytay People’s Park in the Sky Entrance Fee

I was surprised that the park has a 30 Php entrance fee. Aren’t public park supposed to be free? Among all the Philippine public parks I’ve visited, it was only Tagaytay People’s Park in the Sky chargers entrance fee, I told my company Jen. We proceeded anyway thinking that the entrance fee might be for the maintenance of the park.

Just behind the park’s gate are jeepneys that bring visitors to the highest point of People’s Park in the Sky. Fee is 5 Php each and 40 Php for special trip. Alternatively, you can walk on your way up to the peak.

Since the park just opened and the jeepney that brings guests to the peak was fully occupied, Jen and I decided to walk. While walking uphill, I noticed a number guests taking groupies and selfies with the plain view as their background. At that point, I was just focused on reaching the highest peak. I did not stop to take any photos as there was no Instagram worthy view.

People's park tagaytay city — Shrine of Our Lady, Mother of Fair Love

We reached the Shrine of Our Lady, Mother of Fair Love. Built in 1974 and was formally inaugurated by Bishop Luis Tagle in 2003, the shrine is one among the most photographed spot in the park.

Cottages at People's Park in the — Cottages

If you get tired and hungry, there are a number of stores selling drinks and snacks.

I was dismayed that the use of cottages are charged 100 Php given that this is a people’s park.

Jen and I continued walking uphill until we reached this rustic old structure which is supposedly the unfinished “Palace in the Sky”. Well, the structure looks old and abandoned but it I actually liked it. It looks hunted but can be a good location for professional photo shoots.

The Views From Tagaytay People’s Park in the Sky

As we entered the structure, we were welcomed by the beautiful panoramic view of Tagaytay.

The breathtaking panoramic view compensated my earlier disappointments with Tagaytay People’s Park in the Sky.

View of the open threatre

View from the side side of the old structure

If you are looking for activities, there is nothing much to do in People’s Park in the Sky. Well, except for sightseeing and having your photo taken while riding a horse for 20 Php.

How to get to Tagaytay People’s Park the Sky?
commute: From Tagaytay circle, take jeepneys bound to the park. Fare is 17 Php.
by car: From Tagaytay circle, head to northeast of Tagaytay via Tagaytay-Calamba road.

People’s Park in the Sky Map

Well, I should say that expected too much before visiting Tagaytay People’s Park in the Sky. There are fees everywhere. From the parking to the entrance and even the use of their cottages were a bit off. The park could have been better if there is a proper maintenance and efforts to improve the place. The only highlight of our Tagaytay People’s Park in the Sky tour were the beautiful views.

Visiting Tagaytay? Online hotel booking here.

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Bulacan
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Look: Beautiful Bakas River in Norzagaray Bulacan

Posted on March 23, 2016September 25, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

Located in Baranggay Matictic in the municipality of Norzagaray, Bakas river is one among Bulacan’s underrated tourist attraction. Bakas is a Filipino word which literally means a trace or a mark.

Brief history of Bakas river: According to locals, the story behind Bakas river is that the legendary Bernardio Carpio set foot in Matictic leaving a huge foot print/trace on one of the limestone rock formation. The other footprint is said to be in Biak na Bato in San Miguel, Bulacan.

Bakas River norzagaray bulacan

Bakas river has giant limestone rock formations with 3 huge statues of Jesus Christ and a statue of Holy Trinity-Virgin Mary. This makes Bakas river a unique and perfect getaway for travelers, adventurers and religious pilgrims.

rock formation river philippines

Spotted several kids rock jumping in the clear and fast flowing waters of Bakas. Apart from these kids, also spotted are the vandals in the rocks. I hope visitors and locals alike should stop scribbling on these naturally beautiful rocks.

When I visited Bakas river, I noticed the strong current of water nearby the rock formations. Alternatively, on the other side of the river, water is more calm and is safe for swimming. For visitors’ safety, warning signs can been in the area about the unpredictability of the river’s current and water levels.

I was really fascinated by the clean waters of the river. And not to mention the fresh air and its lush green scenery.

Since the place is not developed for tourism, there is no entrance fee to get in the riverside. However, cottages can be rented for only 200 Php a day. I learned from a local that these cottages don’t usually last for a year. Every time a strong typhoon hits Bulacan, these cottages are destroyed and washed along by the river.

There are only a few sari-sari stores in Bakas and these are all located on the farther area of the riverside. I would highly suggest to bring your own food as stores only have limited items for sale.

Related Blog Post: Enchanted River in Surigao del Sur

When to Visit Bakas River

According to locals, the best time to visit the river is during summer. Just avoid visiting the place during the Lenten season. Besides the fact that there is a huge number of visitors during holy week, there are also stories about the river being too dangerous during the season. It is also not advisable to visit Bakas river during bad weather as water in the river easily rises.

How to Get to Bakas River

From EDSA northbound, take a Del Carmen bus bound to Garden. From there, take a jeepney to Garay and tell the driver to drop you off at St.Andrew church. Hail a tricycle and tell that you are going to Bakas river. Tricycle fare is 300 pesos for a two-way ride.

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Cavite
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Zoo in Tagaytay: Residence Inn

Posted on January 12, 2016March 14, 2016by One Armed Wanderer

Tagaytay is undeniably a popular weekend destination due to its accessibility from various cities in Manila. Apart from the cold breeze, posh hotels and mouthwatering foods, Tagaytay also has the Residence Inn zoo that anyone who is going to Tagaytay should visit.

Residence Inn zoo or Zoo at Residence Inn (ZooRI) is Located along Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway, this zoo in Tagaytay is 33.2 Kilometer away from Sta. Rosa exit.

Residence Inn Zoo Tagaytay Map

The fun and adventure in Residence Inn zoo actually starts right outside the zoo itself! Just few steps away from the parking area, activities such as horseback riding, biking and a mini playground welcome visitors.

Horeseback riding – 150.00 Php

Biking – 30 minutes 70.00 Php – 1 hour 100.00 Php

Horseback riding, playground and biking outside the Residence Inn Zoo

Zoovenir shops outsize the zoo

Horseback riding outside the Residence Inn Zoo

Residence Inn Zoo Tagaytay Entrace Fees

Adult – 249.00 Php
Kid 3 ft. to 4 ft. – 199.00 Php
Kid below 3 ft. – Free

First stop in this Tagaytay zoo is the aquarium area. In this room showcases various species of fishes, turtles, snakes, cockroaches, spiders and scorpions.

Aquariums residence inn

Albino Python

Madagascar cockroaches at residence inn zoo

Huge fish!

After visiting the room filled with aquariums, guests are greeted with a huge Phython. Those who dare to have a close encounter with the Phython can have their photo taken with it for only 50 Php.

Python

photo ops with python

Guests can have their photo taken with this python for 50 Php

There is also a mini open air theater which showcases an animal show. Unfortunately, we were unable to catch the show as we arrived in the zoo late in the afternoon.

There is also an area where visitors can have their photo taken with an Owl, a parrot and a huge Iguana. I was amazed how beautiful the owl is!

Me with the beautiful owl

If you get hungry, there is the “Gazeebo”- the one and only restaurant inside the zoo and is famous for their Bulalo, Tawilis, and Chili cheese rolls. If you are dining here, make sure to dine in the open air area as you get a good view of mountains and of course the Taal lake and Taal volcano.

Gazeebo

Open air restaurant at the Gazeebo

View from the open air restaurant

Beautiful view of the Taal volcano from the restaurant

If you are up for an adventure, Residence Inn Zoo also has a zipline and cable car for only 150 Php. Having these activities in a zoo really makes Residence Inn unique!

Zipline

If you do not want an outdoor adventure, alternatively, Residence Inn Zoo has a Mega 5D Rider. For only 95 Php you can enjoy a 5 to 6 minute ride of the film of your choice. I was wondering why the ride is called 5D, nonetheless, the ride was fun!

The main attraction of the zoo are the wild animals such as the Lions and Tigers. I was surprised that there is a number of Tigers in the zoo. Unlike the typical zoo, visitors can actually get close to the cages. It was a mixed emotion to see these beautiful creatures. I felt happy to see how huge and beautiful they are but felt sad to see them in cages. Well, I just feel grateful that they all look healthy and well taken care off. I’ve been to Manila zoo and I should say that animals in Residence Inn Zoo are way healthier that of Manila Zoo.

tiger and lions cages

Lioness

Sleeping Tiger

Lion

Other animals in this Tagaytay zoo are camel, horses, monkeys, ostrich and sheeps.

Arabian Camel

Horse

Monkey

Ostrich

Another fun activity in the Residence Inn zoo is the birds feeding (for only 10.00 Php). You can also have your picture taken with a tiger for 50 Php.

Photo with tiger

Overall, Residence Inn zoo is a must visit attraction in Tagaytay. It is not your typical zoo as it offers various activities including up close encounters with the animals. And not to mention, all the staffs and zoo keepers are very accommodating and friendly too. At 249.00 Php, the entrance fee is quite pricey but seeing how clean the entire zoo is and how healthy the animals are, the price is definitely worth it. This zoo in Tagaytay is so far the best zoo I’ve been in the Philippines.

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Cavite
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Food Destination: Twin Lakes Tagaytay

Posted on January 11, 2016March 14, 2016by One Armed Wanderer

Twin Lakes Tagaytay is the Philippines’ first and only vineyard community. Developed by Megaworld, Twin Lakes Tagaytay is a 1,300 hectare mixed use resort community that will future European inspired residences. The first residential cluster to rise in Twin Lakes is the Vineyard Residences.

Apart from the refreshing views of Taal volcano and Taal Lake, Twin Lakes is becoming a popular destination in Tagaytay city as it is also a home of 10 must visit cafes and restaurants.

La Creperie Twin Lakes

Open area at Buon Giorno Twin Lakes

Twin Lakes parking space

Buon Giorno Twin Lakes

Greg’s Fruitcakery Twin Lakes

Visitors checking out restaurants

Twin Lakes Tagaytay Restaurants

Starbucks
Silver Bucket Seafood Dining
Amira’s Buco Tart Haus
Greg’s Fruitcakery
Santis Delicatessen
La Creperie
Bag of Beans, coffee Shop and Bakery
Bagoong Club Resto
Buon Giorno Caffe and Bistro
The Farm Organics

Starbucks Twin Lakes

Starbucks in Twin Lakes Tagaytay is pegged as the most beautiful Starbucks store in the Philippines.

twin lakes

Visitors checking out the modern architecture of Twin Lakes restaurants.

How to Get There

Located along Tagaytay-Nasugbu Hiway in Alfonso, Cavite, Twin Lakes Tagaytay is 30 minute away drive from Tagaytay’s People Park in the Sky and an hour and a half drive if you are coming from Sta. Rosa exit.

Twin Lakes Tagaytay Location Map

If you are visiting the south, I would highly recommend Twin Lakes! The place is relatively new and not as populated as other food destinations in Tagaytay. The views of Taal Lake, Taal Volcano and not to mention Tagaytay’s cool breeze is definitely a plus!

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Where to Eat in Roxas City, Seafood Capital of The Philippines

Posted on January 1, 2016August 5, 2017by One Armed Wanderer

I was very excited to visit Roxas City, Capiz as it pegged as the seafood capital of Philippines. Having one normal arm, it’s really challenging for me to eat any shellfishes. Nonetheless, I was really looking forward to discover Roxas City top food finds.

During my 3-day visit in Roxas City, below are my top 3 places and restaurants that are worth visiting in the seafood capital of the Philippines:

1. Baybay

Baybay is a Visayan word which means seashore.
Located within the Roxas City People’s park, Baybay is undoubtedly the most popular food place for both locals and tourists. Baybay has an array of restaurants and stalls offering the fresh seafood.

seafood court at roxas city people's park

On the right side of the park is Baybay’s seafood Court is an open area where diners can enjoy the sea breeze while having the freshest seafoods Roxas City offers.

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I immediately visited Baybay during my first day in Roxas City. I was surprised that at 8:30 AM, most of the restaurants/food stalls in the Baybay sea food court are still closed. I was lucky though that the staff of Rhiane’s Grill & Resto have already started displaying fresh sea foods in front of their stall.

I ordered for a grilled fish, 2pc. Pork barbeque, talaba (oysters), buko juice and a soda. I was surprised that I just paid (190 Php/$3.80) for a generous amount of food. Apart from the cheaply priced fresh and mouth-watering sea foods, the staff of Rhiane’s Grill and Resto were very friendly and accommodating too.

With Rhiane’s Grill & Resto staff, Baybay, Roxas City

On my second day at Roxas, I tried the a restaurant situated on the left side of Baybay. This time I ordered my favorite calamares and this fish that they call “Kilo-kilo”.

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Seafood

Calamares (190 Php/$3.80) Grilled Kilo-kilo fish (120 Php/$2.4), 1 Rice (12 Php/$0.24), 1 soda (12Php/$0.24) = Total 334 Php/$6.68

The best time to visit Baybay really depends on your preference. If you love quiet and peaceful athmosphere, visit Baybay for your breakfast. If you love to witness some sort of seafood festival/bazaar, Baybay is the perfect for dinner.

I have to say that Roxas City People’s Park/Baybay is my favorite place in Capiz. Apart from the relaxing atmosphere, fresh sea breeze and friendly locals, you will surely have a satisfying gastronomic adventure in Baybay.

Operating hours: Some stalls open as early as 8:30 AM, most stalls close at 12:00 AM
Budget: Starts at 150 Php

2. Raffy’s Bistro – Buckets-Sizzlers-Coffee

Unlike Baybay, this is one among the few high-end restaurants in Roxas City. Located in Halaran Plaza, Raffy’s Bistro is just a few walks away from Immaculate Concepcion Metropolitan Cathedral and the Capiz Provincial Capitol. It is also within an arms reach from Roxas President’s Inn.

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The restaurant itself is very clean and the staff are very friendly. The interior was a fusion between old and modern American Bistro. Raffy’s Bistro serves American-Mediterranean cuisine. They offer salads, handcrafted burgers, pastas, artisan flatbread pizzas etc.

I ordered Seafood Pesto Pasta, Scallops Rockefeller and a bottomless iced cold house tea.

Seafood Pesto Pasta (175 Php/$3.5) – Shrimp, fish, squid in creamy pesto sauce

Scallops Rockefeller (210 Php/$4.20) – Fresh Capiz scallops topped with Bechamel , bacon bits and lots of cheese baked to perfection

Please check out my separate post for the complete Raffy’s Bistro Menu.

Operating Hours: 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM
Contact number: 036-6213976
Budget: starts at 250 Php

3. Spanggo Cafe & Pasalubong

From a failed Pres.Manuel Roxas ancestral house tour, I was heading back to the hotel when I saw the attention grabbing name and architecture of this restaurant. Related: 5 Things to to do in Roxas City aside from eating seafood

Spanggo or Spanish-Ilongo is located along Rizal St. and is also few meters away from Raffy’s Bistro.

I did not think twice and hurriedly checked out the Spanggo Cafe. From the name itself, Spanggo serves Spanish-Ilongo foods. Aside from this, they are also popular for their “pasalubong” items and their delicious homemade pies.

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I ordered “The Big Meal” (195 Php/$3.90)- Pinoy arroz la Cubana: danggit, 2 sunny side up eggs, banana fries and chorizo rice

Please check out my separate post for the complete Spanggo Cafe & Pasalubong Menu.

Operating Hours: 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM
Contact number: 036-522 8848
Budget: starts at 200 Php

Visiting Roxas City? Hotel online booking here.

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