I have a heart that yearns to travel. Always dreaming of travelling the world one place at a time. As a pinoy saying says, “Wag maging dayuhan sa sariling bayan.” So, what better place to start with but here in the Philippines. One of the most renowned places in our country is Palawan. The island is like a national gem already. Pristine waters, clean environment, welcoming people, and one of the most scenic views I’ve seen to date.

When I got invited via a text message from a former colleague I was hesitant because it was addressed to another person but she then said that it was a group message sent to most of us who were form the intensive care unit that I’ve worked for. Everyone was so excited and a lot of us signed up. In the end, only a few were able to join but still quite a group.

There were a lot of struggles before the trip actually happened. Like credit card payments, tours, reservation, unavailability and conflict of schedules. It was all stressful but I think we should give credit to Rej who made most of the effort to make the trip happen and resolving issues quickly.

With all that said, we made it to Palawan.

We flew from Davao to Cebu. Spent one night at the city and flew the next day to Puerto Pricesa. Upon arrival at PPS we were welcomed by our chosen tour package – Kara Travel and Tours. They had variation on their tour packages but we went for tour A. We were rode a van, had a quick lunch at McDonald’s, and after a few minutes we were on the road travelling to El Nido. It was a LONG ride. Even my prepared playlist wasn’t enough to keep me occupied the whole trip. You better pack those neck pillows used for travelling because it will surely serve you well.

As we arrived at El Nido at around 11 PM? I forgot but I’m guessing around that time. We checked in to our hotel and we were instructed to rest well since we were leaving early in the morning for our island hopping. So, we weren’t able to sleep early because first of all… It was already late when we arrived. LOL!

Morning came and we were all set for the tour. It took quite some time for it to get started. We went around islands/lagoons and they were all amazing. I was expecting to like the secret lagoon the best, but I’d say it was the big and small lagoon. I can’t remember where we went kayaking but that was my favorite. We spent a lot time there and  I guess my paddling skills were of use again. But my arms were so sore when we went back to the hotel.

After resting a bit, we decided to go out for dinner searching along the shore line for some good food! There were a lot of restos to choose from. We wanted to try the famous Art Cafe but it was already full and seats were not available anymore unless we were willing to wait long. We ended up transferring. Since we were at the beach, we expected and planned to eat seafoods but it was too expensive. Hahaha! So, guess what? Most of us ended up eating grilled pork and chicken. But some ordered some fish and squid. Everything was tasty, or we were just hungry.

After eating dinner, we strolled a bit and bought souvenir items. Cornballs and I ended up getting lost but we weren’t that worried because there were a lot of people strolling down the streets and most of them were foreigners. I guess the ratio between locals and foreigners were like 1:5. There were more foreigners than locals! Not statistically, just based on observation. As we figured our way back to the hotel, others were already leaving again since they were craving for crepes and ice cream. Would have loved to join them but I was too tired. I had to rest well for the next day.

We were already bound for PPS for the underground river tour which lasted a few minutes. But to get there it was another LONG drive and a short boat ride. The underground river tour was amazing but kinda eerie. It was just so dark inside the cave and so silent since we were discouraged to open our mouths because droppings may be harmful to health. Tip! Bring your flashlight if you don’t want to depend on the tour guides light. It was kinda scary since the water and the boat’s sides were almost on the same level but the water was calm so… Hahaha! I tried not to mind it since we had life vests on. The boatmen were very skillful and jolly. They made the experience more fun! Whenever a group leaves the cave, they were called survivors.

Upon going back to the main dock, we had a buffet lunch just somewhere near. Then we were off again to another souvenir shop to buy more goodies. The rest of the day were free. We decided to eat halo halo at Noki Nocs Savory House. They are very popular for their halo halo. The tricycle driver told us, "Masarap ang halo-halo diyan ma'am! Ice pa lang papapakin mo na!" Then, went walking again. Then went to Kalui? But unfortunately it was reserved for some students so there were no available seats again. The we decided to eat at a bbq place at the baywalk. Rode bikes and just chatted and went home.

Upon resting well that night, we arranged for a city tour at PPS before our flight. My favorite one was Baker’s Hill. It was just a wonderful place to be in. We ate pizza and bought some pastries too. Tons of photos too. It was a good thing that our tour guide was also a nurse so she actually had a lot things to say. Hehe!

When we were home bound we spent another night in cebu. Then flew back to Davao and back to Kidapawan again.

It was a tiring but very fulfilling experience for me. Especially that it was my first time to travel with Cornballs that entails riding a plane and with my workmates as well. I’m really looking forward for more adventures! To see the world and to appreciate how wonderful it could be. It’s a pleasant experience and I guess I will never get tired off travelling and learning! It’s an investment for the soul.

Until the next adventure.

Xoxo

P.S. If you want to see my travel vlog on my Palawan adventure please do visit my YouTube Channel

Links to VLOGs:
Palawanderes Part 1
Palawanderes Part 2
Palawanderes Underground River
Palawanderes City Tour

The first weekend of the year was spent food trippin’ allt the way to Digos City. We weren’t sure if they were open on weekends so we had to message them on Facebook and gladly their response was quick. It was our first time to visit the place so we relied on Google Maps to locate it and thankfully we arrived safely to the destination. We were the first ones there or at least at that moment but soon enough a lot of people started to flock the place as well. Mostly the people dining there came from different cities. I guess they're quite famous now.

Their place was refreshing and the interiors were on point. It really had the farm house feels with a twist of modernity. Even their plates were cohesive with the whole concept of the resto.

We wanted to try their beef meals but only one of us had the chance to do so. Apparently they ran out of it. So, the whole lot of us ended up ordering pork ilustre which was like a fillet pork wrapped with a piece of bacon. “Tatay” went for Elephant ribs (not elephant meat – just so you know).
Overall the food was okay. The meal came with a sauce and a side dish of your choice. It wasn’t really a lucky day because the power went out and instead of getting shoestring fries and potato chips we diverted to mashed potato and some salad for our side dish.

Service was also good. The server was knowledgeable with the menu and were giving suggestions for us, knowing it was our first time.

I plan on going back to try their burgers because instagrammers (if there is such a word) are raving about it. Not sure when though… but definitely soon before the place gets crowded.

 

I heard a lot of good reviews of this place and I thought I must definitely try it for myself. And when I did, they did not disappoint. The place had a rustic feel to it that made it warm and cozy. I loved how it had a concept unlike other restaurants in the city. Service was fast and we didn't have to wait long for our food. Everything's good, although I suggest they put something to make place more enclosed. Since it's an open space and located along the road, many vehicles pass through and the dust and smoke comes inside easily. The parking space is also limited. I guess they didn't expect the flooding customers since the place is somewhat small considering the number of people who want to dine there. The second time we went there we had to wait for a vacant table. I guess its worth the wait. Good food.

We only tried out their best sellers (the gambas, buffalo wings and the ribs - not in photo) and I have yet to try different meals on their menu. But so far... so good. Two thumbs up for them!

Nothing extremely out of  the ordinary but overall I can say its one of my new favorite dining places now here in Kidapawan.

P.S.:

Not sure about their store hours but I'm guessing 10 am to 10 pm.

Located at Labastida Street Kidapawan City.

Just like me, you should try it and judge it for yourself :)

My weekends are usually spent at Davao. I always wanted to try new places to eat. Usually, I had to wait until 10 or 11 am before establishments open. So, I'm always having brunch whenever I'm here. This time around my sister introduced me to a new place - Cafetiere. Residencia del Marina Business Center at Jacinto Street, near Ateneo de Davao. It wasn't our first choice because I wanted to eat Gyudon from a Japanese resto that was just a few blocks away too.

Since we were already at Jacinto street doing some of my sister's errands we decided to eat at Cafetiere. The place seemed nice from the outside. When I got inside it was very pleasant. I loved the ambiance. They accommodates us even if we were a few minutes early from the opening hours of the store. They made us comfortable and took our orders so that it would be served once they were ready to open.

As for wifi... Nope, there's none. But one of the posts on their walls said (If I remembered correctly), "We don't have wifi but we're sure you'll make a good connection." Something like that. There were only a few people in. I like it that way though. My sister said it would be different if we went there during lunch time. So, I guess if you ask me when's the best time to visit the place it would be the first of hour upon opening of the store. Just to avoid a huge crowd.

Their food is affordable and delicious too. I have yet to try other recipes on their menu. Surely, I'd come back but for now. It's a double thumbs up for a first timer like me! :D

P.S.

Store hours:

Monday to Saturday

10:00 AM to 9:30 PM

 

 

CHEW LOVE

A cafe serving snacks, desserts, and lots of good food.

Located at P.Gomez street, Tacloban City - Downtown.

It's the prettiest cafe I've seen in Tacloban. Victorian inspired interior with pastel touches. I just melted with joy. Couldn't stop taking pictures and couldn't care less since no one really knew me there.

My aunt and uncle said they loved their halo-halo named gold digger. So, I initially ordered one and a bowl of sour cream fries and I was good. We went back for a second round after a day or two. The next time I'll be back I definitely try different dishes! :D

But for the halo halo alone, it was worth it!

Until the next foodventure.

XO