A Trip to the Happiest Place on Earth: Disneyland!

"No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dreams that you wish will come true."
— Walt Disney

To set foot in Disneyland is a dream come true.  Who could forget: Meeting Mickey Mouse and other Disney Characters, trying the breath-taking rides, joining the Water Parade, shopping in Disney Stores, dancing like a little girl, the non-stop fun and fireworks!

The Disneyland trip is rekindling the inner child in me and experiencing the Walt Disney magic!

They say Disneyland is the "Happiest Place On Earth"...Obviously they've never been in your arms ♥ The happiest place on earth will always be with you.

My Ultimate Destination for 2011

Aside from Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia trips scheduled this 2011, I am definitely eyeing  on one  dream Asian destination: the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bagan, Myanmar.

I truly have deep fascination with incredible sunrise and sunset whether it's in highlands or in the beach. With my well-versed Mom knowing this enthrallment, she reminded me of a place that I once read and watched on travel documentaries where I could catch a beautiful glimpse and take an interesting photo of  magical dawn and dusk. I know I have to see the place with my very own eyes. I look forward to watching the sky change its colors over the tips of more than 7,000 ancient temples and pagodas that dot the horizon, which is considered as one of the most majestic scenes in the world.

Imagining the cold breeze on my face as we bicycle toward the ruins, climbing up a temple at dawn to get a perfect scenery of the rising sun, the sight of endless array of light reflecting on the thousands temples carpeting the ancient land– how can one resist with this kind of breathtaking experience?   I would love every second of it,  and the fact of simply being there with someone special would undeniably stay with me the most--- more than going home with a postcard of mesmerizing sunrise in  Myanmar.

*Photo courtesy of YYzdez

Fire Dancing in Boracay

Fire Dancing: A spectacular show in Boracay you should not miss!

A riot of light illuminates the night in the Island. Simply enchanting.

-Photo by Barbie Armie

Bohol's Treasure: Balicasag Island

Spending an early morning in Balicasag Island during a trip with my bestfriends in Bohol to catch a glimpse and take a photo of dolphins in their natural habitat . What a lovely view!

“Man has always assumed that he was more intelligent than dolphins because he had achieved so much…the wheel, New York, wars and so on…while all the dolphins had ever done was muck about in the water having a good time. But conversely, the dolphins had always believed that they were far more intelligent than man…for precisely the same reason.”
-Douglas Adams




Photo by Barbie Armie
Balicasag Island, Bohol

CDO Whitewater Rafting: Cagayan de Oro's Pride and The Next Level of Adrenaline-Packed Adventure

   With barely 3 hours of sleep subsequent to amazing CDO nightlife and to complete the CDO trip, we needed to jump off the bed with energy and sporty vibes at around 7:00 A.M. since KAGAY, the group scheduled to offer the Whitewater Rafting, was about to pick us up at 8:00 A.M. To my surprise, a jeepney with rafts at its top fetched us in the hotel. Their guides, with all smile, welcomed us aboard.  By all guts, we took the challenge: CDO Whitewater Rafting Adventure at its finest!

   First, we had a stopover at Divisoria to pick up some of the rafters. The guide was kind enough and allowed us to buy some breakfast in the nearby McDo. We needed to fill in our empty stomach for this exciting venture. When we hopped in the jeepney, with all astonishment, the two folks looked familiar and it seemed we already met them during our Camiguin trip. And we were right, the couple, Jay-Ar and Nhice were one of the lovely pairs we saw in White Island. Great!

  

   Kagay is one of Cagayan de Oro’s supreme whitewater rafting outfitters. It offers trips ranging from beginner’s course to advanced and expert courses throughout the year. With high hopes and exhilaration, we were about to experience the basic: Beginner’s Course that is comprised of 14 rapids and shall be completed in 3 hours. This course (Class 1-2) costs around Php 700 per head. This was definitely our first time to try this kind of water adventure. These two ladies never felt outnumbered as fellow adventurers were picked up at their locations since everybody offered golden friendship. The cheery group headed by Ruffa and the guys from Xavier/Searsolin lead by Sir Luther were all nice and warm! The trip to the disembarkation point of Cagayan River took about less than an hour from the city proper.

  

   Gazing at the Cagayan River, which separates CDO and Bukidnon, bestowed us pure adrenaline at a different level. After registration, personal belongings were turned over to the staff where everybody can get them in the finish point. Before proceeding to quest, we were given short briefing on paddling directions and correct positions, rafting basics, do’s and don’ts and capsizing. After demonstrating Forward Paddle, Stop, Back Paddle with our gear, floating vest and helmet.. off we go!

   Experiencing the first rapid made me lose my breath and my heart continuously pounding! I felt the rush of whitewater for the first time in the spectacular Cagayan de Oro River! At the same time, it was a moment to discover and unleash the thrill of nature at its wildest.

   Ahoo, Ahoo, Ahoo! HIGH FIVE!!!  Raise paddles! We survived! Finishing all the rapids was an accomplishment. The guide and the team did a marvelous job on making the rafting not only enjoyable but most significantly, safe and secured as we can be.

  

   The Beginner’s course was effortless! (Ahem! Now, talking like a pro.)  In contrast to common belief, it was really not necessary to put forth extra effort when paddling although one had to do so for teamwork and with respect to the other rafters. We were lucky we got the coolest rafting guide in the boat! We never had a dull moment with such a witty and humorous guy. Picture taking also was a good diversion.

   Almost all 14 rapids only lasted in mere seconds, giving extra time for calm waters in between where one can jump off the raft, take a dip, float and swim while enjoying the beautiful view. Passing by the caves, the stone formations, snake nest with real snakes resting on it had somehow added more enthusiasm to the journey.

   After the last rapid, the group had to get off the finish point wherein delectable set meals in nearby restaurant were served and the jeepney with all the stuff was waiting.

   It was fun-filled and must-try adventure that even non-sporty type of individuals like me could enjoy. The delightful thrill of crossing the rapids somehow  pushed me to the decision of trying Advanced Course the next time I set my foot to CDO with my friends and experience again the unbeatable water overdrive!

   I myself couldn’t believe I was fearless enough to do it. From hesitant to brave, from restless to excited. Joining the perfectly entertaining teams, the adventure was engaging, a really unforgettable part of my life!  ♥

Tips:

1. Cover most of your body against the sun’s harmful rays. Wear long sleeves and leggings for girls. Do not wear stripes (where I got my Madagascar tan lines! LOL) Apply sun block generously!

2. You may not bring your DSLR cameras. For safety of your gadgets, you can bring waterproof or point and shoot cameras. You can avail of Kagay photo service and one can pay and share the copy with everybody.

3. Kagay provides waterproof bags to be brought along the adventure where you can put your gadgets inside.

4. Shower rooms are provided. One can bring extra clothes, towel and toiletries.

5. Bring bottled mineral water. Or if somebody from the other boat can give you for free, why not? LOL

Kagay

021 Pres. Aguinaldo Street

Cagayan de Oro City

63 88 3104402; +639177122323

dankaamino@yahoo.com

Conquering My Fear in Bangkok

13th Day of June 2010: Mark this day. I conquered my fear of heights as I climbed up the soaring 260ft for Wat Arun. It is challenging to ascend a limited way up the very steep stairs of the main prang, which presents a magnificent view of the Chao Phraya River.

Temple of the Dawn, which stands at the west bank of the river and originally known as Wat Makok ("Olive Temple") was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital Ayutthaya. Amidst its name (from Aruna, the Hindu god of the dawn), the greatest picturesque scenery of Wat Arun come at sunset with the sun setting behind it. This makes one of the best landmarks for the City of Angels: Bangkok. Dropping by coffee shops and food restaurants across the river before the spectacular sunset can make fine-looking shots from these viewpoints. Sunset is from 6pm - 7pm all year round in Bangkok. Wat Arun is open every day to public from 8.30am to 5.30pm. Entrance to the Wat is THB 50 and the ferry crossing goes as low as THB 2.

See you soon again, Wat Arun!

Asia's Sin City

Dear Macau Tower,

I will skywalk the next time I will see you..

Sincerly,

Me

   "Macau Tower is a remarkable landmark of Macau and one of the most advanced towers in the world. Not for anyone who has a fear of heights, this 338 meter-sky tower, can be the best place  for a breathtaking birds-eye view over the Macau Sin City."

For a day, I was a Paparazzi

Officially Missing Boracay... ♥

For a day, I was a Paparazzi

-Photo by Barbie Armie

CDO: The Nightlife: Must See + Do

After the mysterious yet fun Camiguin odyssey, we reached Cagayan de Oro in high spirits for just a span of 2 hours. Thanks to the convenience of Paras Seacat, which costs about P400 per person per way but cuts the travel time by half! This ferry travels daily from Bohol to Camiguin and finally to CDO.

We arrived in CDO at 6:30 P.M.  and immediately took the taxicab to Hotel Conchita. The hotel is just 3 minutes away from Macabalan Pier and just walking distance to market, surrounded by retail shops and food restaurants.

 Although accessible to Divisoria, I suggest it would be nicer if you stay in Limketkai Center like Mallberry or Pearlmont for convenience and safety since these latter are just near hangout places and only have to cross the streets to catch the scene.

It was Saturday night, the perfect time to try CDO Nightlife. Cagayan de Oro has a night panorama to compete with the Live band & Acoustic Bars, Clubs and KTV bars in metro areas of Manila. With that, we were bound to choose between Night Café and Limketkai. We asked the hotel staff what could be the best place for us to hang out and they gave us unanimous answer: Limketkai Center since it would be safer for dressed up damsels like us minus the royal guards.

Night Café is preeminent every Friday's and Saturday's from 6:00 P.M. to 2:00 AM where  stalls are built for shopping, dining and some music performances. If you’re not used meeting variety of crowds, then it may not be the best place to go. And there is what you call “The Site" in Limketkai Center, the Pride of Cagayan de Oro City, which is a superb spot to hangout, have a cozy dinner and coffee after. It's more like The Fort or Libis but Kagay-anon style.

 

Not wearing the typical high heels to match our party outfits did not lessen the poise. We headed to Rosario Arcade still in glam and strut our stuff to Candy's and Cafe Macumba in startling way, which were excellent venues to chill and chat with friends. However, we picked the one with best façade: Kyla’s Bistro!  The foods served were superior, which cuisines were tempting and served with cheese; and the prices of cocktails like Margarita were reasonable. The majority of the crowd was young and vibrant, which we belong.

 Kyla’s Bistro gave us the greatest ambiance: we proudly stayed in one of the artistic spheres outside the Bistro which can accommodate 12 to 15 people. This fine-looking spherical structure not only gave us a retro feel; but above all, the picturesque view was perfect for these two Manileñas to be the apple of the eyes for that night. Without exaggerating, the Kagay-anons  were one of the nicest folks we ever met. They offered not only their golden smiles, but also their friendship and approached us with their helping hands. The rest was a beautiful history. ♥

Camiguin Island Upclose

Camiguin-CDO was a trip like no other. Maybe because it was relentlessly pursued despite the overwhelming hitches: my original partner-in-crime not coming with me when everything was all set and paid, the hassle of last minute tagging of travel buddy and Mom’s refusal to permit me to go South. I felt it was the right moment for me to escape the reality, take a break, contemplate, search for answers, and discover a new favorite place. The getaway brought back the smile and blissful mood I was searching for. Like what I expected for, it did not only gave me answers, but it also presented the paradise, the beautiful sands, the amazing sun, the unforgettable river and the wonderful people. These were priceless.

After our touchdown to CDO around 10:00 AM, the cab directly brought us to Agora Terminal where we took an aircon bus bound to Butuan. The fare costs around Php 115-140 (We asked for Student’s fare with our IDs and probably still look like one. ) It was a 2-hour drive to Balingoan Pier. It was so funny when we nearly missed dropping off to Balingoan while we were in awe eating Lanzones in its cheapest price. Good thing, the conductor recognized us and dropped us just 60 meters away from the pier. Then, just in time, we hurriedly got our tickets just when a watercraft/ferry bound to Camiguin Island was about to leave. The trip to Camiguin Island-Benoni Port took one and half hours. From the port, we rode the multicab to Paras Beach Resort. It took us one hour rocky drive to Paras Beach Resort where I frequently asked myself and the driver, “Are we there, yet?” I was just excited.

It was almost 4:00 PM when we arrived in Paras Resort so we decided to stay in place, freshen up, take some pictures and eat a lot! We did not want to waste our precious time so we headed to the pool side camwhoring and ordered Lechon Kawali, Sizzling Bulalo and extra, extra rice! Although I was expecting a beachfront resort, and to my surprise it has only a picturesque swimming pool, we did not let the chance pass to enjoy the view on our own. The resort was not congested when we had our stay. Just perfect for two ladies to go night swimming, girl talk, get a little tipsy and happy with island cocktails. The cool night breeze, the peaceful ambiance and the relaxing swimming made lounging to beauty rest indeed great.

Waking up at 6:00 AM was a challenge after a good night sleep but we needed to get up for the much awaited tour of Camiguin’s famous white sand bar: White Island. We were all dressed up in our swimwear and hats as if we were heading to a photoshoot. The 15-minute boat ride was worth it. The White Island was a paradise. Its shape differs according to the tide. The sea water was calm and suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The view of Mt. Hibok-Hibok was magnificently beautiful.

It was magical in its simplest form: just a bar of immaculately white sands, enclosed by serene sea. It was drizzling when we set our foot in the radiantly white sands and the strong winds somehow straightened my curls. The weather was not perfect for photoshoot but it was friendly to bask freely while  indulging in the scenery of Camiguin situated effortlessly across the Island.

After heading back to Paras Beach Resort to dress up and and pack our stuff for CDO, we immediately proceeded our Countryside Tour. Our first stop was Katibawasan Falls where it was an ideal place to cool off during summer. The entrance fee costs around Php 30 for maintenance of Camiguin’s treasured gift. The green ferns and dropping vines complements the backdrop of the falls. “Katibawasan" means: "To have overcome".







Our next stop was Ardent Hot Springs where we did not intend to have a dip but to fill in our stomach. Then we became nostalgic as we continued the last parts of the tour: the church ruins, where only the outer walls were left from this 17th century Spanish church and the famous Sunken Cemetery, the remains of the 1871 eruption of Mount Vulcan. This famous landmark is a giant white cross in the sea. We had a glimpse of the view not during sunset since we need to be in Benoni Port before 4:00 PM to catch Paras Seacat bound to CDO.







Camiguin is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the wonders of nature without superficial distractions. Their locals are simple, warm and hospitable. It is true when they say that one cannot help but to fall in love with the island and would feel that the hardest thing when the day comes to leave island.

It is like my favorite Boracay without parties, establishments and the crowd of island lovers. It is like Palawan in its virginity, free from exploitation, urbanization and development.

I am glad with such simple beauty can bring so much joy and peace. Truly an enchanting island born of fire.