RP’s 2nd most depressed region may soon be a world-class destination

As I have written in a previous column, the Bicol region, despite its many natural wonders and scenic spots, and rich cultural and historical treasures, lags so much behind in modernization and economic development, that it does not even have luxury chain hotels and mega malls to cater to world travelers. As one who is passionate and determined to sell Philippine destinations to world travelers, this concerns me a lot. I wonder what the government is doing to make this beautiful region a top tourist destination? Isn’t there any entrepreneur who sees this region’s potential?

Lo and behold, I found out that the government is indeed doing something and there is a group of entrepreneurs, which has actually started investing billions of pesos building the Misibis Beachfront SPA and Residential Resort in Bacacay, Albay.

We headed to the resort for our lunch. While waiting for our lunch I scoured the 40-hectare beachfront resort, which has a long stretch of fine white sand. The resort is just gorgeous and I knew then that with bold marketing and promotion campaign, it could easily beat resorts in Phuket, Thailand, Bali in Indonesia, Maldives in India, Waikiki in Hawaii, the Scandinavia, and Greece, in popularity.

Nestled at the south coast of the Pacific Ocean, the resort offers a panoramic view of the Mayon Volcano, Sula Channel, Pototan Cave in Batan Island known for its teeming terraces of waterfalls and its exotic underground rivers, the Bacon-Manito geothermal site and Nag-asu Lake, the burning lake of Albay. The resort is only 20 minutes away by boat from the town of Misibis.

Half of 40 hectares property has been set aside for residential houses, while the remaining 20 hectares are being developed and preserved as eco-tourist spots with a wildlife sanctuary that is in accordance with the local government’s principle of creating a balance between development and care for the environment. The wildlife sanctuary is for adventure tourists who would want to commune with nature and experience the exhilarating beauty of the island and the serenity of the environment.

Hopefully this year, the resort will formally operate a cable car that will provide a three-kilometer cable route from Sula Channel up to sitio Mosboron, barangay Misibis in Cagraray Island, Bacacay, Albay.

The residential homes are more like California style single-family homes with world-class amenities. There are two villas, six clusters of residential homes with tiled roof, red tiled floors, modern bathrooms and windy living and dinning area. There are beachfront cabanas, infinity pools, and lagoons that are in the process of completion. I met a family from San Bernardino, California, who purchased a property in the area and was quite happy over its decision.

Still in the development phase are the restaurant and poolside bar, function rooms, souvenir shop, sauna and spa, grand main lobby, chapel, business center, auto terrain vehicles, driving range, indoor games, tennis court, water sport activities, marina and horseback riding. All of these are projected to be fully completed by 2006. There is also a clubhouse that can accommodate more than 500 guests and a big hotel, which will be available to guests by early 2006.

Already, the development and construction of the Misibis Beachfront SPA and Residential Resort has contributed to the economic uplift of the rural folk. The developer of the project employs all Bicolanos and except for the toilet bowls, bathtubs, Jacuzzis, tiles and the roofing of the villas and clusters, all materials are sourced from local manufacturers.

With a booming tourism industry, other businesses in the area would likewise experience rapid economic growth and the rural folk will be assured of employment. I fully believe that a booming tourism industry is one way of solving the Philippines’ poverty problem. If only to help solve this chronic poverty problem in the Philippines, in my own small way, I unceasingly promote Philippines destinations.

Our lunch finally arrived and I was so excited over what native cuisine my gastronomic taste bud would have that time. To my great shock and disappointment, we were served corned beef and sardines. I found that amusing ‘though. I guess our host, aware that I was visiting from the U.S. did not quite know what American food to cook, and what Filipino dish to serve, and so the combination.

Fortunately, we stopped by the wet market on our way back and bought some bananas to compensate for my frustration. Philippine bananas are the best in the world. This is one fruit, next to mango that I never miss whenever I am in the Philippines.

For any comments or inquiry about the articles in this column, please email me Rick@travelinternational.net. I would like to hear from you. For all your travel needs, air, hotels, resorts, spa's in the Philippines call 310-327-5143, or visit us on the web at www.travelinternational.net.

For: Rick’s Travel Guide
Date: April 15-22, 2005

Sula Channel, the Philippines’ Suez Canal?

The Sula Channel, which connects Tabaco Bay and Albay Gulf is said to be comparable with the historic Suez Canal of Egypt. In which aspect and in what respect the Sula Channel is being compared to the Suez Canal has not been made clear to me. However, Sula Channel is one of the most beautiful natural wonders I have seen in my travel around the Philippines. While it has crystal clear waters, which dominate beaches in the Philippines, Sula Channel has distinct character not found in some other places. Before I continue with my account of my Sula Channel experience, let me give you a little backgrounder of the Suez Canal, in case you may have forgotten your history.

The ancient Suez Canal, which was dug in the 6th century BC, linked the Red Sea to the Nile that forced ships to sail along the river on their journey from Europe to India. The modern Suez Canal, which links the Mediterranean to the Red Sea is said to provide a shorter trade route between Europe and India. Over the centuries, the canal fell into disrepair and was completely abandoned upon the discovery of the trade route around Africa.

In 1800 AD, the French revived the idea of a shorter route to India via the Suez Canal. A French canal digger was commissioned to do the job, and was reportedly given a decree by the Egyptians to run the canal for 99 years after completion. With Egyptian workers working on the construction, the canal was completed and was inaugurated in a lavish and extravagant ceremony on November 17, 1859, with French, British, Russian and other Royalties gracing the occasion.

In 1956, the Egyptian President Nasser nationalized the canal at Mansheya Square in Alexandria. This triggered a swift reaction from Great Britain, France and Israel, and invaded Egypt. The international community condemned their action, and Nasser eventually claimed victory. During the 6-day war in 1967 when Israeli occupied the Sinai Peninsula, the canal was closed but used as a buffer zone between the fighting forces. The Egyptian reclaimed the canal in 1973 during the Arab-Israeli war. Since then the canal has been widened twice its 167 kilometers stretch across the Egyptian deserts. Today, approximately 50 ships reportedly cross the Canal daily, and the cities and beaches along the Bitter Lakes and the canal serve as a summer resort for tourists.

The Sula Channel on the other hand, was a sanctuary of Spanish galleons traveling the Albay Gulf in times of typhoons during the Spanish era. The Albay Gulf is a very treacherous place. Many small islands and submerged reefs have to be negotiated before a ship could make its way to Legaspi at the far end of the gulf. A major storm could easily spell disaster for any ship traveling the gulf or at anchor at Legaspi. The only safe place is the Port of Sula, which is about 10 miles north northeast of Legaspi.
After 15 minutes of cruising the channel, we landed in one of the many islets measuring around 5000 square feet and about 2-story high. There were some young adults swimming on the crystal clear water. As typical of Filipinos’ hospitality, the young adults greeted us warmly. After a brief stop, we continued with our cruise and saw around 10 islands on both side of the channel. The islands have lush vegetation and coconut trees, bananas and mango trees are in abundance. Some of the islands are inhabited with houses that vary in architectural design, from the native to modern. Being in the midst of the channel’s serenity, I could say, I wouldn’t mind staying in one of those islands for a month or two.

The channel island is also the way to Misibis where a beachfront spa and residential resort is built, and to Pototan cave, which will be the subject of my next column. During our cruise, we also chanced upon a score of small fishing boats. The fishermen waved at us bashfully and gave us a huge smile.

As we go out to the open sea, big waves welcomed us and the first thing that came to mind was that, the place would be ideal for surfing. I thought of my daughter Alicia, who loves to surf and her favorite place is the Hermosa Beach in California, which fails in comparison to the beauty of what I was witnessing.

Again, I am encouraging you to visit Legaspi, where you will see not only the world famous Mayon Volcano, but would get the opportunity to swim and interact with the gentle whale sharks of Donsol, plus enjoy many other attractions.

Call us at Travel International (310) 327-5143 for all your travel needs, or visit us on the web at www.travelinternational.net.
 

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For: Rick’s Travel Guide
Date: April 08 – 15, 2005

Rural Bicol evokes nostalgia

My tour of the Bicol region was a far cry from my previous tours of different Philippine destinations. Unlike in many provinces and cities of rural Philippines which have embraced modernization and are catching up with economic development, the Bicol region lags so much behind, that it does not even have luxury chain hotels and huge shopping malls to boast of, considering its multifarious natural wonders and historical, as well as cultural treasures that could attract tourists the world over.

But while it is devoid of the amenities of modern world, rural Bicol exudes beauty that is captivating, and there is serenity that one could never have in the jungle of urban life. The wide expanse of rice fields, the sight of farmers ploughing the fields, children playing kid games in front of their houses sans expensive toys, beautiful lasses leisurely walking along the streets, and older members of the community gathered in front of a small store for their afternoon chit-chat, are all reminiscent of days gone by in Laoag city, where I grew up.

My experience in Bicol brought back fond memories of my childhood and my growing up years, when life was simple and people were happy with their simple needs. Who could ever imagine that in one of my trips to a tourist spot in the province, I would be riding in a motorbike with my tour guide? But I did just that, as you must have read in a previous column.

This time, we were on our way to Bacacay Pier for a boat trip to the Sula Channel, which I missed a day prior, when we decided to stop by a public market that was along the way to buy some fruits for our picnic lunch.

The market scene evoked nostalgia, for when I was growing up, my grandmother used to take me with her in doing her shopping. I enjoyed going with her because I got to taste different fruits in season and other delicacies free of charge. Before, it was a common practice for the vendors in public markets to let buyers taste the fruits or food they were selling, to convince them that their goods were the best so that the buyers will no longer go to the competition.

Our ancestral home in Laoag City was just across the public market, which was huge -- around two city square blocks. I witnessed how the public market would turn into a happy meeting place of shoppers who would more often than not chance upon a relative or a friend and converse incessantly, as if to catch up on lost times.

The town of Bacacay in Albay is located on the eastern slope of the famous Mayon Volcano. It is primarily an agricultural community, and being a seaside town, Bacacay, abounds in fresh seafood. The town is composed islands, a sea, and vast mainland of lush vegetation and pollution free air.

Like most beaches in the Philippines, Bacacay has white sand, but uniquely, it has also a jet-black sand beach, which according to rural folk contains some medicinal value.

We saw a lot of foreigners as well as locals swimming in the beach, while some just enjoyed basking under the sun.
 
Two men who were our guide for the boat trip to the Sulu Channel, the Masibis beach and Pototan cave, met us at the pier. This would be the subject of my next column.

Haven’t been to rural Philippines and would like to experience one? Call us at Travel International (310) 327-5143, or visit us on the web, www.travelinternational.net. and we will help you plan your rural experience of a lifetime.

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For: Rick Enrique’s Travel Guide
Date: April 01 – 08, 2005

Majestic Mayon Volcano

The beautifully symmetrical Mayon volcano rises to 2,462 meters above the Albay Gulf, north of the coastal town of Legazpi. It is the most active volcano in the Philippines, having erupted 47 times since the year 1616, 12 of these eruptions have caused massive damage to property and resulted in the loss of many lives. But despite its massive and destructive eruptions, Mayon volcano has retained its near-perfect cone that leaves everyone looking at it up close and personal, awe struck.

After a lunch of tanguigue and snake at Solamante restaurant, we proceeded to the foothills of the volcano, situated near a city called Tabaco, where a natural spring flows out of the mountain. The cool, refreshing spring water has been tapped for the swimming pools of the spring resort, Dhio Endeka, which has built one for the adults, one for the children and for toddlers. The resort has facilities that cater to every traveler’s need, cottages for large group, and dormitories for budget travelers, and function rooms. All the rooms are air-conditioned.

Along the way to the foothills were small children waving at visitors -- a gesture of welcome, while others begged for money or loose change. In addition to tourists from all over the world, we chanced upon a medical team on a mission in Bicol, winding up its medical trip with a tour of the volcano.

Halfway the foothills were a picnic, rest area overlooking Tabaco Bay and the Sula Channel, which is said to be a galleon and ship sanctuary. I did not get the chance to cruise Sula Channel, but I was told the cruise gives one a good view of the different foregrounds of the volcano, peeping shyly from behind an island, then in a few minutes shows herself in all splendor.

From the picnic area I got a good view of Legazpi city and the huge Albay gulf. The scenery was truly breathtaking. After taking a good number of shots, we headed back to Legazpi city, where my guide took me to restaurant called Small Talk Café. I was told the café was an old house converted into a restaurant by the owner’s daughter, Didette Peralta, who happens to be the chef. The original floorings of the house and the walls were retained. On the walls of the restaurant were pictures of Legazpi city from 1920 to 1928.

A culinary expert, Ms. Peralta specializes in European cuisine, which she combines with the local cuisine. The café was actually closed that afternoon, but as rural folk know each other well, my guide brought me there nevertheless, and we were entertained. When we arrived in the place, the lady chef was busy preparing for a family’s birthday celebration and I was fortunate to have partaken of her delicious specialty – spaghetti in coconut base and for its sauce, the native dish laing made of taro leaves cooked in coconut milk. I may not be a good cook, but I know that while pasta could be prepared with either tomato or white sauce, the spaghetti form of pasta has always been prepared with tomato sauce. I must admit though that her version of spaghetti, which I called spaghetti de Bicolandia, was really delicious. It was incomparable with the Italian pasta I have been accustomed to while growing up in Chicago and having some Italian friends. I’ve always loved Italian food, especially pasta, and now I can honestly say that I love Spaghetti de Bicolandia, too.

Small Talk Café is really a fine, exquisite and unique dining place in Legazpi city. I recommend strongly not to miss it when you’re in the city. It is located at 51 Dona Aurora Street, Legazpi city, with telephone number 480-1393.

For your next trip to the Philippines, whether for just a visit, a tour, special interest tours like scuba diving, trekking, playing golf, adventure tours or just to sun bathe in the finest, whitest sand beaches in the Philippines’ crystal clear waters, call us at Travel International (310) 327-5143, or visit us on the web, www.travelinternational.net. It is better to do it here before you leave and save a lot of time money and efforts.

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Rick Enrique’s Travel Guide
Date: March 18 – 25, 2005

Fireflies watching in Donsol, Sorsogon

The sleepy town of Donsol in Sorsogon comes to life starting January of every year that last till April, when hordes of tourists speaking a babel of languages arrive to have a close encounter and to swim with the biggest fish in the world, the whale sharks, locally known as butanding.

Towards the end of May when the number of butanding in the waters of Donsol wanes and the local and international tourists gone, Donsol is back into slumber. So, what is there to do in this quaint little town when it is not whale shark season? One can embark on a relaxing and rewarding activity of fireflies watching.

And this was my next activity in Donsol. My guide from the Donsol Tourism Office, Jun Tonga picked me up from where I was billeted -- the Apuyan house at 5:30 in the afternoon for my fireflies watching.

I rode with him on his motorcycle and started our tour of Donsol, which I observed was very peaceful and according to my guide has zero crime rate. As we drove passed the town proper, I saw friendly faces of people with warm smiles, seemingly happy with the simple lives they have.

The sun was still up when we reached the edge of the river --- too early for the fireflies to appear. Jun, my guide suggested that we go into the long stretch of rich vegetation of mangroves, coconut and local shrubs which lined the calm river of Donsol, and which are said to be the perfect haven for Pyractomena borealis or commonly known as firefly.

The villagers built a 6-foot high walkway made of bamboo in the middle of the mangroves, which we negotiated for hundreds of yards, zigzagging our way. Inside is a tower house made also of bamboo and painted in red.

I was introduced to my boatman named Rey, who obviously was a strong paddler. He was the 1st runner-up of the Donsol Boat paddling contest for the year 2004. His entire family from his paternal grandparent to nephews was boat-paddling champions.  

The river was about waist deep and there were a few men fishing in the middle of the river with lanterns on their heads. My boatman told me they were fishing for shrimps, which were of better quality and commands a price twice as high in the market. White shrimps taste sweeter than the dark gray shrimps. No wonder the so-called tiger shrimps, which are dark gray in color, are cheaper than the ones that are lighter.

As Rey the boatman paddled upstream, the quietness of the night and the stillness of the river was incredibly romantic. My guide was absolutely right in suggesting that I hire a boat with a human paddler, not one run by a motor. With the sound of a motor, there is no way you can enjoy the quietness of the night.

As we went on, a myriad of blinking lights gradually lit-up the pitch-black surroundings in a luminous but silent display, that was next to magical. Some fireflies, outlined the leaves of a huge tree, while in a nearby spot, one swarm formed ribbon-like patterns. In another tree, the fireflies looked like scattered Christmas lights blinking in random fashion. As I sat in the dark observing all this, there was no other way I could describe it but heavenly.

The quietness of the night was broken by the sound of incoming motorboats full of tourists that included the Europeans I met earlier on. The tourists trained on their flashlights to the direction of the fireflies, which scattered and disappeared, but were soon back when the flashlights stopped.

Entomologists say the fireflies, which are actually beetles from the family of lampyridae, are good indicators of the balance of nature and the ecosystem. Where trees thrive, the air clean, water systems such as ponds, streams, marshes or even depressions, ditches and river clean, fireflies also thrive. With their bioluminescent character or their capacity to emit flashing lights through their bodies, they are also called the “light bugs”.

Fireflies watching are a “must-see” attraction while in the province of Sorsogon. Boating tours have been organized along the Donsol River. Local fisher folks are tapped to take the lead in these tours. The earnings they get from the guided tours provide their families additional income. And the fireflies’ tours are year-round.

I paid our boatman 400 Philippine pesos for his services or about 8 dollars and gave him 200 pesos tip or about $3.57. Rey was so thankful and went home happy. Jun, my guide and I decided to look for a place to eat, but there was only a place that makes pizza. I ordered a medium size pizza and a beer and headed back to the Apuyan house and called it a night.

To go to Donsol by air, take the flight from Manila to Legazpi city then take a bus from the airport to Donsol that takes around 1 hour drive, call Travel International Group, Inc. 310-327-5143, and we will do the arrangement for you. You can also visit us on the web, www.travelinternational.net.

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The friendly whale sharks of Donsol, Sorsogon

Every year during the months of February to May, tourists from all over the world, flock to the sleepy seaside town of Donsol in the province of Sorsogon, some 544 kilometers south of Manila, to watch and swim with the gentle giants whale sharks, called butanding by the rural folk. The whale sharks, considered the biggest fish in the world, which make yearly appearance in big numbers in the plankton-rich waters of Donsol, are also attracting researchers from the international scientific community.

Ever since I have heard of these magnificent creatures years back --- that you can swim and interact with them, I dreamt of having that experience, which finally came true on February 11 this year. I took the morning flight from Manila to Legazpi city where a van I contracted was waiting at the airport to take me to Donsol, Sorsogon, which was an hour drive. As in much countryside in the Philippines, Sorsogon, has magnificent landscapes of rice fields, coconut plantations and green mountains.

My tour guide Ms. Edith Batalla who I met in Manila is from Legazpi City, a writer and journalist who also operates EB Tours. All the resorts in Donsol at the time were fully booked, so we considered an alternative to look for a place to spend the night. I got in touch with the local tourism office and I was recommended to stay at the Apuyan residence, a bed and breakfast inn.

The town officials and the rural folk of Donsol take their blessing seriously. They are overprotective of their whale sharks. Tourists have to register with the local tourism office and which I did. Per boat trip is 2,500 Philippine pesos or 44 U.S. dollars, which can be shared with up to 7 people. I was fortunate to have 2 local tourists from Makati, a German guy, two Danish women and another woman from Portland, Oregon to share the boat with bringing our total to 7. A Butanding Interaction Officer (BIO) was assigned per boat, a motorized outrigger canoe. Our BIO was Joel Briones, 36 years old who has been a local guide for 6 years. We were ushered in to a private room to view a film about the Whale Sharks as part of our orientation. The film shows and teaches how to interact with the whale sharks that are really docile animals and are at the site feeding on planktons that comes from the mouth of a river running into the ocean.

During the interaction and swim activity, scuba diving gears are not allowed. Participants can only use snorkeling outfit like mask, goggles and fins. Our BIO told us that we could only jump into the water and interact with the whale sharks on his command and permission. When he says jump, that is the only time when participants could jump from the boat to the water. When he says swim, that is the only time participants could swim.
Our boat captain, Carlito Andrade a 39-year-old local guy has also 6 years experience in the job. We were cruising for about 30 minutes when we had our first encounter with the gorgeous mammal. Our boat captain gave chase and went further ahead of the whale shark We waited for it to pass-by our boat and at about 50 feet away the command to jump and swim into the path of the whale shark was given. I was so excited and swam as fast as I could to catch up with the whale shark’s path, and made it. But all I could see was the whale shark’s huge body. I could not see the head or the tail. I floated and waited for the animal to pass in front of me and when it did, I saw the huge tail. The mammal was within my reach, but as we were warned, I did not touch it.

We all hopped in back to the boat and excitedly exchanged our experiences with one another, when the captain told us there was another one coming and told us to get ready to jump and swim. But at that time I was already exhausted. I gave my underwater camera to our guide and asked him to take pictures for me, which he did but the water visibility was very poor. My companions did not miss a jump and swim commands. All of them were strong swimmers, a must to fully enjoy the encounter. We saw 8 whale sharks for that boat trip, but the boat before us reported seeing 22 whale sharks. The whale sharks measure from 12 to 14 meters but I was told that they could be as long as 18 meters and weight around 15 tons.

After our whale sharks encounter, the German guy Eberhard Fink, and the two Danish women, Ruere Joergensen and Dorte Gaarde joined me for a Filipino lunch of fried fish, laing, (a spicy native dish of taro leaves cooked in coconut milk), grilled pork, garlic rice, bananas and mangoes. The German guy and I had coconuts for our drinks while the two Danish ladies had colas. Surprisingly the tourist loved the laing and the fish. After lunch the German headed for his cottage and planned to depart for Cebu the next day. He was on the 30th day of his 59 days of Philippine sojourn. The two Danish ladies headed back to Legazpi city, where they spent the night before heading for Bohol via Manila the next day. They were on their 50th day of their 60-day trip to the Philippines. They told me they had been to Intramuros, Manila, Pagsanjan falls, Puerto Galera, and Bicol.

On this Donsol journey, I met 3 tourists from Portland, Oregon traveling separately, 1 German, 2 Danish, 1 Hollander, 2 Swiss and 2 locals from Makati. I asked the Europeans what they most like about the Philippines and in unison they told me the Philippines as a whole, because it is such a beautiful country. But they were also saddened by the extreme poverty they have observed.

The Apuyan house where I stayed for the night was a huge house, with a huge living room, dinning room and a kitchen, a front veranda, an air conditioned bedroom and tiled bathroom. With only myself staying in the place at the time, I had a maid and a cook. The owners live in Manila and they visit Donsol only twice a year.
 
I have said this several times before, and I will say it again --- the Philippines is such a beautiful country, as the European tourists attested! I challenge everyone to go home and be tourists in your own country. Spend your dollars in the Philippines and help alleviate poverty. Visit the Philippines’ many wonders like you would visit Paris or Rome --- armed with enthusiasm and curiosity. If you see our country more, you can appreciate it more and perhaps you can be proud to have descended from the Philippines, if you have already embraced American citizenship. Call us at Travel International (310) 327-5143 or visit us on the web, www.travelinternational.net.
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Bicolandia’s many treasures

Bicol region may not be as popular as the other tourists’ destinations in the Philippines, but it is attracting a lot of foreign tourists because of its rich natural resources, cultural and historical treasures.

As I have written in my previous columns, among these attractions are the chance of interacting and swimming with the giant, gentle whale sharks in the waters of Donsol, Sorsogon, and watching myriad of fireflies forming gorgeous lights around trees, both of which I personally experienced.

My next wonderful experience in Bicol was admiring in person the magnificent Mayon Volcano with its perfect cone, despite several major eruptions the last was in 1993. Every now and then the volcano indicates moderate unrest that prompted authorities to declare a six-kilometer radius from the top of the volcano, as a permanent danger zone.

My Mayon Volcano experience will be the subject of my next column, but for now I would like to give a bird’s eye view of the Bicol peninsula.

The Bicol region, comprising of 8 provinces, is situated on the southern end of Luzon, the biggest among the three major islands, in a country that has over a thousand islands. Splendid mountains --- Mt, Isarog and Mt. Asog in the province of Camarines Sur, Mayon Volcano in the province of Albay, and Mt. Bulusan in the province of Sorsogon -- dominate the region’s landscape.

Both Mayon Volcano and Mt. Bulusan are active and because of their volcanic origin, these two giant earth mounds produce thousands of megawatts of geothermal power. A geothermal plant in the town of Tiwi, Albay and one in the town of Bacon, Sorsogon supply the bulk of the energy requirements of Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon. These are among the many attractions of the region.

Considered as top tourists’ destination in the Bicol region is the province of Albay, primarily because it is the site of the famous Mayon Volcano. But there are plenty of interesting sites and places to visit that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage, as well as offer opportunities to swim at beautiful beaches, scuba-dive to wrecked galleons, explore caves, climb volcanoes, admire waterfalls, lush vegetation, and Baroque architecture, among many other things tourists could engage in.

Legazpi city is the capital of Albay and the gateway and regional center of the entire Bicol region. The city was named after Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, the Spanish explorer who came to the Philippines in the 15th century.
In Legazpi city, I stayed at the Pepperland Hotel, a 2-star hotel, which is a far cry from the Apuyan house where I stayed in Donsol, Sorsogon. The hotel has a bar lounge with live entertainment. The room assigned to me was directly above the entertainment lounge, with the loud music lasting till 1:00 A.M. that kept me awake till the music stopped.

Legazpi reminds me of Honolulu. It rained at least three times a week, but the rain lasted only for a few minutes. The frequency of rains in short occurrence is due to the condensation of the atmosphere created by the volcanoes. White clouds that looked like snow covered the top of the volcano, when I was there.

After taking few pictures of the volcano, my guide Edith Battala and I stopped at a restaurant that served exotic food like birds and forest animals in season. The restaurant, named, Solamente is owned by Boy Regalado, a former secret service for the son of King Faisal. He briefly resided in Temecula, California and is married to a medical doctor.

Regalado who I was told is an avid hunter took up culinary before heading back to the Philippines and started his own restaurant business. Part of the excitement of tour is being adventurous in food, as well --- thus, I ordered part of my fare a grilled snake, which tasted like the white meat of a chicken, although a little bit tough. His sinigang, a famous Filipino dish with sour broth, was something I have never tasted before. When I asked him how he made it, he told me he used the Filipino version of lemon called calamansi.

After our delicious, sumptuous lunch, my guide suggested that we go to the foot of Mayon Volcano, which I will cover in my next issue.

I encourage you to come and visit Legazpi City or any place in the Bicol region, and discover another interesting side of the island Philippines. Call us at Travel International Group, Inc. (310) 327-5143 or visit us on the web, www.travelinternational.net.

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Cebu Pacific flies to Los Angeles soon

I found this out from officials of Cebu Pacific Air, which flew us to Dumaguete City in continuation of our familiarization tour of the Philippines. The airline, which is now the second largest in the Philippines, recently ordered additional 12 150 seater A319’s to augment its domestic flights and is leasing 2 168-seater A320’s for its U.S. routes.

Cebu Pacific Air Chief Operating Officer Mr. Bong Mojica, who supported our familiarization tour, said the new 150-seat A319 is among the quietest and the most fuel-efficient in its class. Fuel represents the airline’s single biggest operational expense item. The A319 will replace the airline’s DC9’s.

The two 168-seater A320s will be delivered in the second quarter of 2005 and eventually replace the airline’s current fleet of B757’s, its current workhorse for its regional flights.

At present the airline enjoys 38 percent of the market after only eight years of service and has the momentum to gain more market share and eventually the leader of the industry.

Mr. Mojica said the airline will complete its re-fleeting efforts by early 2007, by which time, the airline will have the youngest fleet in Asia, making it even more efficient and competitive.

He said the airline’s huge investment would make travel and tourism a more vibrant industry. It would also help push trade since it will have a bigger capacity to move cargoes.

The Southeast Travel representative picked us up at our hotel, the Richmonde for our transfer to the airport to catch our Cebu Pacific flight to Dumaguete City. Our flight, which was an hour and 15 minutes, was at 12:35 noon.

It was a pleasant and relaxing flight because of the warmth and hospitality of the flight attendants who belong to dedicated team members with a compelling passion to treat all customers with a sincere heart and soul for service.

Unlike any other airlines, the Cebu Pacific Air flight attendants engaged the passengers with games and the winners got a prize.

Cebu Pacific reminds me of one of the most profitable airline in the United States, the Southwest Airline, which remain profitable while many airlines experienced bankruptcy.

Southwest is making profit yearly, because it offers no frills. Cebu Pacific Airline offers no frills for its domestic flights, as well.

Cebu Pacific Air flies to most destinations in the Philippines. It is currently the biggest carrier from the Cebu hub, flying within Visayas and Mindanao in a loop service for regional passengers and tourists.

The Manila and Cebu hubs will see increased activity as the airline adds more local and foreign destinations. Next year the airline will start flights to Los Angeles. This is good news for Balikbayans and for us travel agents, who always find ourselves with no flights to offer during peak season.

Next week, I’ll talk about Dumaguete City, the capital of Negros Oriental and the home of one of the country's finest Universities, Siliman.
Call us for your travel need (310) 327-5143 for all your travel needs or visit us at the worldwide web, WWW.travelinternational.net.
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Laoag City International Circle inducts officers

Geared among others to help the poor and underprivileged in the Philippines particularly in the province of Ilocos Norte, the Laoag City International Circle, Inc. (LCIC) was organize to carry out projects for that purpose. City Mayor Jim Dear will induct the newly elected officers headed by its President Rose Bonoan on Nov. 20 at the Reef in Long Beach.

The other elected officers are Rudy Maluyo, Vice President, Administration/Operation, Rick Enrique, Vice-President Community Affairs, Jean Aurelio, Vice President Program Activities, Naty Bueno Reyes, Recording Secretary, Owen Aurelio, Corresponding Secretary, Josie Lazo-Carlson, Treasurer, Monet Pascua Nagui, Assistant Treasurer, Tito Rene Barba, Auditor, Marilen F. Maluyo, Assistant Auditor, Edmund Baldonado, Sgt at Arms and Macqueline Palalay, PRO.
 
The Board of Directors includes Oscar Aurelio, James S. Bonoan, Michelle B. Hong, Marites Lo, Leticia Ong, Cesar Reyes, Corrie Swetich, Vic de Vera, and Normando Tiamzon. Isabelo Bonoan and Monica Lazaro were elected advisers.
 
According to its president elect Rose Bonoan, the organization hopes to organize the natives of Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, Philippines into a solid, cohesive and unified organization that will promote fellowship, foster goodwill and strengthen the spirit of unity and cooperation among the members over and above their self-interest.

The organization will encourage other natives of Laoag City to form LCIC chapters in their respective communities around the world with the similar aims and objectives as spelled out by the LCIC.
 
According to Bonoan, the LCIC will also be active in various community development activities in the City Carson in particular and eventually in other parts of the U.S. where LCIC Chapters will be organized.  

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One last look at Siquijor

After visiting Siquijor’s many wonderful attractions and talking to its beautiful and hospitable people, I could not fully comprehend how this exotic island province acquired the reputation of being “an island of sorcerers.” People I talked to deny that the practice of witchcraft and sorcery exist in the province. We have never heard or met anyone who engages in it, during our entire stay in the province. But whether or not there is any truth in what many believe or hear, I will always remember the island for its beautiful beaches, peaceful and friendly people, virginal forests and low crime rate.

After our Cambugahay Falls experience, we continued our tour of Siquijor and headed for the next town to see more centuries-old churches. I noticed that the mode of transportation of the ruralfolk is motorcycle, which carries up to 4 people or even a whole family.

The Isidore Farmer Parish, which is at least over a hundred years old, was the last church we visited. There was a group of senior high school students on a field trip. One can’t help but be mesmerized by their beauty and captivating smile, which I captured in my camera.

On our way back to the resort, our driver told me about a huge balete tree, which is popular for its scientific name, benjaminficus. Filipinos of old believed that the balete tree is a dwelling place of evil spirits. I had no idea how big the tree was until we reached the place. It was really so huge that it dwarfed two women sitting by the trunk of the tree.
 
The following day, after breakfast hosted by the Coco Grove Resort we headed for a transfer to the pier to catch the 10:30 ferry to Dumaguete City. It was a bright sunny day and the pier as usual was crowded with travelers and send off parties to visiting friends, relatives and hotel guests. It was time for us to say goodbye to our host and I know in my heart that some day, I will be back in this enchanting island.

We arrived Dumaguete city and had enough time for lunch before our Cebu Pacific flight to Manila, which was departing at 2.30pm. Our tour guide took us to Coco Amigos for lunch. Over lunch, we reflected and evaluated our entire trip to Dumaguete, Bais and Siquijor. . There is a lot to see in these places. If you're planning to visit the southern tip of Negros Oriental, Dumaguete-Bais and Siquijor are a wonderful combination. I highly recommend it to those who have never been in the Philippines. You will see the best of both worlds, the old and the new, on top of its many natural wonders.

Arriving in Manila, our guide transferred us to Holiday-Inn Galleria in Mandaluyong the former Manila Galleria Suites, for an overnight stay. The hotel management hosted dinner and cocktails for us, after which, we inspected the hotel and its facilities.

For all your travel needs, call Travel International (310) 327-5143 or visit us on the web, www.travelinternational.net.
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Overseas Filipinos contribution to RP economy

Instead of our regular series on different exotic destinations in the Philippines, I am providing this space for this week, to an article by Becky Cabral who has just returned from a month long vacation in the Philippines. She wrote;

“For a country where poverty remains a serious problem, it is quite amazing to see massive real estates development taking place all over the Metropolitan Manila areas. If over 30 percent of Filipinos were poor, who would buy those multi-million pesos condominium units? The rich and famous have their palatial homes and may even have their condominium units in various parts of the region.

Gerard Jude Vito, the marketing officer of Megaworld, one of the Philippines largest property developers gave me an answer. The overseas Filipinos and their families are among their major buyers. Filipinos living and working abroad have infused a large amount of foreign exchange into the country through remittances, investments, and other transfers. Most of them are now investing in real estates in the Philippines, either for their retirement or for a vacation house.

Megaworld is into international marketing, targeting Filipinos overseas and even foreign nationals looking for retirement or vacation homes. Together with agents from Australia, Pastor Bob Cabrera and his wife Ester, I was given a tour of some of Megaworld’s project in Metro Manila, among these is the 17 kilometer strip of office towers, residential condominiums, recreation centers, leisure and shopping centers, restaurant and bars on Eastwood, a mini city by itself in Quezon City.

With towering and large-scale residential and commercial buildings all over Metro Manila, Megaworld is transforming the landscape of the region. On Eastwood, there is the 38-story Grand Eastwood Palazzo, which has the grandeur of a European palace with modern day comforts like Palladian style swimming pool, gazebo spa and a fitness center among others. In the same area, the 40-story Eastwood Parkview twin towers sit on top of a 4-story mall overlooking a park.

Megaworld is also developing luxurious yet affordable villages for middle-income families. In the Pasig-Cainta area, Megaworld is developing Cambridge Village that features single and twin level condominium homes, with modern amenities. The commercial districts of Makati and Ortigas and top-notch schools like the University of the Philippines and Ateneo de Manila, are within easy reach from the village.

Right next to the ultra-rich Forbes Park Village is the Bonifacio Global city where Megaworld is developing the luxury garden residences Forbeswood Heights and the Bellagio golf view residences. The Forbeswood Heights offer executive studio or one-bedroom home in six towers with modern amenities and overlooking a central park. The village marks a new age of carefree and indulgent living.

Nestled at the edge of the majestic Manila Golf Course, the Bellagio has an endless stretch of green and has stylish units of up to 4-bedroom executive suites. All the perks and privileges of a business-centered lifestyle are at the residents’ command. Makati’s modern workplaces can be reached in a flash, as well as the Ninoy Aquino International airport, as well as other important destinations.

Perhaps the biggest at around 50 kilometers tract of land, the Mckinley Hill Village near the vicinity of the Global city, is called the eden in the Metropolis. Offering a lifestyle of utmost refinement, Mckinley Hill is developing homes of international architectural design, like a Florida-style waterfront residence, a Southern California-style estate house, a Lisbon-inspired contemporary mansion, a Seville-style patrician casa, a Tuscany plantation villa, a Paris-style neo-classic chateau and the list goes on and on.

All these real estate developments going on, which are complemented by the on-going road improvement and road widening projects, will attract even foreign nationals looking for comfortable and luxurious, yet affordable retirement homes.”

If you are interested in any of the Megaworld’s projects, you can call Prime Funding and Realty at (310) 366-3310.

Call Travel International at (310) 327-5143 or visit us on the web www.travelinternational.net

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Metro Manila’s Nightlife Nothing Compares

If Paris is to France the City that does not sleep, Metro Manila is to the Philippines, the region that parties all night. At the end of any working day, as the sun goes down and the lights go up in Metro-Manila’s nightspots, the fun loving Filipinos head for their favorite hang-outs; a gourmet restaurant, where they dine with friends or business associates, a cozy jazz bar or a music lounge, where they enjoy a good conversation over a good wine or specialty cocktails, a karaoke sing-along joint, where they sing their heart out, or a trendy discos with flashing lights and pulsating music where they dance the night away.

Gourmet restaurants in Glorietta, Greenbelt, The Fort and Rockwell center in the upscale business district of Makati City offer cosmopolitan range of cuisine that attract the upscale Filipinos and tourists. These are considered among the most fashionable places for entertainment, dining as well as shopping.

Ortigas center in Mandaluyong is also a lively place at night, with coffee shops, ands bars filled to the brim, especially on weekends.

In Quezon City, Tomas Morato Avenue is considered the tourist hub, as the street is literally line with familiar international franchises, as well as stylish local bars and restaurants. Nearby West and Timog avenues are also known for their restaurants and bars.

The newest addition to Quezon City’s nightspot is Eastwood, a city within a city where several offices and residential skyscrapers now stand and at the center are many open-air restaurants and coffee shops reminiscent of Paris Boulevard, but with modern architecture. Mostly the young, sophisticated, and college set frequents the bars and clubs in the area.

In the City of Manila, the Remedios circle on Adriatico Street remains the center of the city’s nightlife through the years. New bars and cafes in the area have mushroomed along its side streets. Café Adriatico is right at the Circle and is an institution to Manila’s nocturnal survivors who usually nightcap or breakfast there.

On weekends, the circle is practically closed to vehicular traffic because of the huge crowd that turns out in the area. Restaurant owners set up the sidewalks to accommodate the big crowd. People come in droves, strolling on the street, looking for a less crowded spot to eat or have a drink or two.

Some streets in the area are converted into a public dancing hall on weekends for an endless evening of dancing, complete with flashing lights and pulsating music. Patrons are properly dressed, and despite the big crowd the street party remains peaceful and orderly.

If you have a limited vacation time, a stay in Metro-Manila would be more than worth your limited time. There are a lot that visitors can do and see in Metro-Manila and its environs. Call us at Travel International, Inc. (310) 327-5143 or e-mail us at info@travelinternational.net and we will help you plan your trip.

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For: Ang Peryodiko
For Rick’s Travel Guide
Date: November 12-19, 2004

RP Tourism head supports
Fil-Am Travel Agents

From Subic, right after lunch hosted by Days Hotel International, we headed back to Manila for an appointment with the Secretary of Tourism Joseph "Ace" Durano. Ms. Baby Raymundo, President of Southeast Travel Corporation, famous ground handler in the Philippines joined us in our meeting.

Secretary Durano, who is U.S. educated talked fondly of Carson during his university years in California.

Secretary Durano listened intently as we told him of the travel agents’ struggle in selling Philippine destinations due to persistent negative news about the Philippines. We discussed with him our long-term goals and projects among them a television travel program produced by Miss Becky Cabral, aimed at improving the negative perception of Americans about the Philippines.

He pledged his support of the project and expressed a desire to get his office involved in its development. On the part of the Tourism Department, Secretary Durano said he will continue the on-going projects initiated by his predecessors, former Secretaries Richard Gordon, now Senator elect and Obet Pagdanganan.

Gordon started "WOW Philippines,” and Pagdanganan the "Galing Pinoy", "Gandang Pilipinas."

Over all our meeting with Secretary Durano has been very fruitful, both parties agreeing to help each other in each respective efforts to promote Philippine Tourism in the United States.

After the meeting, we were transported to our hotel in Ortigas, the Richmonde Hotel along San Miguel Road. In the evening, the group was free of a