Baguio Bliss: A Mother’s Day Treat

I love how mothers are truly appreciated and loved during the month of May. As I look back in the past when my mother was still alive we simply write letters of love, appreciation and how blessed we are of having her.  Give her well-deserved-genuine hugs and kisses. And now that I have my own family I also get to experience how to be truly valued by my loved ones and feel extra extra special this time of the year.

The hubs asked me what I want this time, on the spur of the moment I said full time out with them and as usual just a short drive away from home. For countless times I’d love to choose Baguio. Baguio has always something you will look forward to no matter how many times you’ve been to the place. This time we tried something different, visiting some places we haven’t been to. We had so much fun! You can treat your moms by visiting some of Baguio’s artistry, attraction, and charm.

Here’s our quick itinerary:

1. Café de Angelo
2. Bencab Museum
3. Café Sabel
4. Tam-Awan Village
5. Farmer’s Daughter
6. Tsokolate de Batirol

Café de Angelo

Our first stop is at café de angelo. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city take a breather to this secluded place at Chapis Village, Marcos Highway, Baguio. Great place to loosen up and its ambiance is just so homy and comfy. They also has another branch at South drive, but we prefer the one at Chapis more peaceful and calm. Tried their French vanilla latte, Java madness, and their so tasty chicken burger. And yes we enjoyed them. They also offer some healthy light meals, fresh salads, sandwiches, pastas, cakes, cupcakes and hooray to coffee addicts like me there are different flavors to choose from.

Bencab Museum

Bencab stands for Benedicto Cabrera, the master of Contemporary Philippine Art. It’s a four level beautiful museum that houses his works and showcases tribal Cordilleran art. You will be stunned as to how rich Cordillera’s culture is with its carvings, artifacts you could truly appreciate and understand their traditions and practices. They also have a garden with man-made duck pond with a gazebo where you can rest, relax, and savor baguio’s cool fresh air with the place photographic view surely you’ve got something to put in your memory bank.

Museum hours: 9am to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday. Last tickets sold at 5:30pm. Closed Mondays, Christmas day & New Year’s day.

Note:

1. Photography is still permitted.
2. Flash photography, video recording, drones, tripods and monopods ( or selfie sticks) are not allowed anywhere in the museum. Selfie sticks are allowed only in the farm and Gardens.
3. Touching of any artwork/artefact, leaning or resting on pedestals & Museum walls are strictly prohibited.
4. Keep a 12-inch safety zone between you & a work of art. This helps to avoid accidental touching or bumping.
5. Outside food and drinks are not permitted anywhere within the property.
6. Food & drinks are allowed only in Café Sabel & may not be carried into the galleries or other areas.
7. Pets are not permitted anywhere within the property.

BenCab Museum
91Km.6 Asin Road, Tadiangan,
Tuba, Benguet,Philippines
Tel:(+63 74) 442-7165
Mobile(+63) 920 5301954 Smart
(+63) 915 1286393 Globe

Tam- Awan Village

As what I have mentioned above Baguio has always something you will look forward to and one of these is this replica of traditional Cordillera village. The whole Village is imbued with Cordillera’s abounding culture with its art gallery, various collection of Kalinga and Ifugao huts, coffee shop and you can even purchase some of  the art work displayed in the place by some great artists. It is also a commendable place  for art exhibits, workshops and other creative ventures that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Cordillera people.

What is more exciting about the place is you could get to stay there overnight and experience to be homed in this whole Cordillera Village.

Lodging (per day):
Beddings and towels are included.
Guests must bring their own Toiletries.

Meals reservation is required

	• 1 PERSON	P 500.00
	• 2 PERSONS	P 1,000.00
	• EXTRA PERSON (ADDITIONAL FEE)	P 300.00 each
	• GROUP (from 10 PERSONS OR MORE)	P 350.00 each

 

	• PICNIC FEE (9 am to 6 pm)	P 200.00 / group of 10 (Entrance not included)
	• ADDITIONAL PAX	P 20.00
	• BONFIRE FEE (6 pm to 11 pm)	P 120.00 each (Entrance not included)
	• USE OF HUT w/o BEDDINGS	P 500.00  per day (Entrance not included)
	• FUNCTION FEE	P 8,000.00 per day (maximum of 40 people)
	• CULTURAL SHOW	P 5,000.00 (prior booking is required)

Address: Long Long Benguet Rd, Baguio, Benguet

Phone: (074) 446 2949

 

Before we headed back to Baguio, we tried to have lunch at “The Farmer’s daughter”. Have heard some reviews about the place and gotta try ourselves to this rustic little nook. We had pinikpikan which is actually my favorite and boiled beef with Chinese cabbage and it didn’t fail us too. The only thing I would suggest to the owner would be their faster accommodation. We were at the place and waited for about 20minutes or more before they could actually accommodate and ask our order. Since the place is full house most of the time we understand and hopefully they could work on it. Regardless of this, I still recommend this place and I’d love to try their other menu.

 

Tsokolate De Batirol

Finally reached our last stop at Tsokolate de batirol. I would never get tired of stopping to this romantic place. And as usual we tried their Baguio classic and added lemon grass I felt a little bit bloated was so full then, and tried their Turon with langka.

• 

It was an amazing-fun-filled day and always grateful for times like this that I get to spend quality time with my family out of our home once in a while.

Address: Igorot Park, Camp John Hay, Baguio, 2600 Benguet

Phone: 0916 375 6510

 

Mt. Yangbew

It was 3:30 in the morning of April 10,2017 when we left San Fabian headed to Baguio to catch the beautiful sunrise at Mt.Yangbew, La Trinidad, Benguet. As what I’ve read from other blogs, it is best to be there at Sunrise or Sunset. And since we planned to hike two mountains in one day we decided to travel at dawn.

You might be confused with the different names this mountain is called; Mt.Jambo, Mt. Jumbo, Mt.Yangbaw, Mt.Yangbo. “Jambo”or “Jumbo”used to be a place for Scout Jamborees during the American regime in Benguet, wherefore people in and around the area enunciated it as Yangbaw or Yangbo. But, now it is officially called as Mt. Yangbew. It is located at Brgy. Tawang , La Trinidad Benguet.

We had a ride that time and we used Waze to help us reach our destination. Yes, waze is an excellent app finder buddy especially when you are not so familiar with the place. From Baguio, it took us around 20min.to finally be at Brgy, Tawang. There was no parking area in the place intended for hikers so you have to find a place where you can park your car and make sure it doesn’t block ways.

At the entrance starting the trail there is a big signage of the said mountain and welcomes tourists and visitors with some reminders to consider. The rates and fees are also posted. You could either have a day hike or overnight. There were two locals who welcomed us upon entering the place. One who is in charge of the registration and the other is at the store who sells some souvenirs. We were 9 in the group and we only paid 270.00, just 30.00 each.

Mt. Yangbew has a friendly trail. A bit muddy that time because of the rain the other day, but still a way easy to trek. Along the trail are some friendly reminders to keep in mind. It took us 30min. to finally reach the summit. Well, that includes some idling and picture taking.

I admit, while we were trekking I thought of it as so plain and ordinary and nothing so exciting about the place, but my disappointment turned into contentment when I finally reached the top!

 

It is massive, open grassland. There are also some rock formations where you can take selfies, groufies name it all. There’s rent-a- horse as I call it where you can have your picture –postcard shot at the top of the mountain for only 20.00 and that’s unlimited shots. It doesn’t cost a pretty penny for such a wonderful view. You can even ride on it too, but that’s another charge.

After our eyes were full, wandered the place freely, we decided to have our breakfast. We had rice, tocino, hotdogs, eggs, and bread for our meal. (There are some garbage bins in the place where you can throw your trash) And because we are the stewards of God’s creation let’s Love and respect our nature. We enjoyed everything and thank God for another opportunity to see His amazing work.

Don’t leave the place without having a picture perfect solo shot on this amazing mountain!

Mt.Ulap: My first at 1,846 masl

Having a body that is genuinely baffled when it comes to ability, coordination, and strength, it would be a struggle to do something that is extremely adventureful.  But when the idea of clambering one of the enthralling mountains that people are fussing over these days “Mount Ulap” I never had second thoughts and I took the challenge. My very first, at 1846 meters above sea level.

Mt. Ulap is located at Itogon, Benguet. It scenic features include marvelous pine ridges and extensive grasslands. The entry point starts at Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon and the exit point is at Brgy. Santa Fe, Itogon.

Still in awe of her beauty. The smell of sweet pine trees, I could never forget.

We were six(6) in the team and planned a day hike. I was with my husband, my best friend, and husband’s friends- his Petiks photography team. Before our hike, we already made our reservation so it would be easier to accommodate us. If you are not familiar with the place, I suggest you take the jeepney. Terminal is at the side of Baguio Center Mall. From Baguio, it took us 40min. to arrive in Brgy. Ampucao. We paid php31.00 each. And since the trail ends at Brgy. Santa Fe, going back to Baguio by Jeepney will cost you php50.00 per head.  For the registration fee prepare php100.00 each and php600 maximum of 10 pax for the tour guide.

• If you have your own ride/car you can park at their parking area reserved for Mt.Ulap trekkers.

We arrived at Brgy. Ampucao around 6:10. As you can see in the picture, as early as that, there were already flock of people geared up for trekking. According to Israel, more or less 300 people climb up during weekends and lesser on the weekdays. We started hiking at 6:30 A.M.

• FYI their cut-off is at 12noon so would be convenient to start trekking early. We were all packed and ready with Israel, our tour guide.

Make sure you have stamp before the hike. A proof that payment has been done. You will also be oriented by your tour guide of the do’s and don’ts during the trek.

Here are the most important things you need to bring and some reminders to consider:

1. Water for hydration.

2. Biscuits, candies, chocolates or any snacks that’s easy and light to bring. For sure you will be hungry. You will consume a lot of energy.

3. Towel and extra shirt. You might need these, especially when it is too hot and you sweat a lot.

4. Trekking poles if necessary. You might bring your own or you can buy wooden ones in the registration area. How I wished I had one being a first timer this sure is a help.

5. Sunscreen. In my case I forgot to put sunblock, so got sunburn after.

6. You could wear gloves (for hiking), hat, and sweater/jacket.

7. Wear rubber shoes (most desirable for hiking). I used a running shoes and it is a little bit slippery. I suggest wear the right kind of shoes especially if the trails are steep.

8. Better to hike in group or with company. When unnecessary circumstances happened, it is easier to ask for help.

9. Bring your cellphones and cameras and make sure they are fully charged. You don’t want to miss the majestic and breathtaking view of the place. And yes, from start to finish everything is visually amazing!

• If you are a first timer like me, better to bring less with you. This is to avoid any fall or accidents. This is also for your convenience especially during the trek.

Surviving the Climb!

The climb to Mt.Ulap is a hasty decision, but a fulfilled one. I honestly don’t know what awaits me along the way.

At first everything was feasible, but as our journey continues, the trail becomes challenging especially on my part. I never had any preparations or even warm up before hitting the trail.

• I advise you do warm up exercise before the climb this helps your muscles be prepared for strenuous activities or you will end up having sore muscles and body pain just what happened to me. Lesson learned as the old adage says. Ok lang super nag enjoy naman ako.haha.

Upon entering the trail, you have to show your stamp. My best friend thought manong was asking for the receipt and so she was looking inside her bag, only to find out it was the stamp. Lol!

Start your souvenir photos here! You can even wear their ethnic native costume. You can give voluntarily in their donation box too.

Here’s our obligatory couple twofie. We were thrilled and always wanted to take pictures.

Going up you could see splendiferous grasslands. I was attracted to these greeny grasses with white flowers. They are so rich and lovely!

It is justifiable to stop and take snappy shots which we did.

Here’s a closer look!

Stride to pose with my bestfriend, Aileen!

Along the way, there are few wooden fences that you need to crossover. Be extra careful when passing through.

The plight has become intense as we went further the trail. But when I look at everyone they seemed untroubled. Well, that is somehow very helpful to me. It suppresses my fears. I tried to focus and all I had that time was trust and confidence that I could finish what I have started.

I never imagined I would go this far! Those pebbles and stones were my greatest foes. I tried to stumble and fall a few times. I even had to take off my shoes and walked barefooted just to make sure my skin would have hold the ground. Glad I made it!

• It is totally alright to take some rest. Do not get ahead of others to be the first to reach the summit. You will get there too. Do the Deep breathing exercise-inhale-exhale trust me this is a great help. Most importantly, Relax and yes I even ask My Jesus to guide me and us during the trek.

We consumed much of our energy and we decided to recharge, had some rest, and embraced the pulchritude of God’s magnificent gift.

Aside from the marvelous pine ridges and lustrous grasslands, another photographic view you can’t leave without taking some photos are the striking pieces of rocks.

Such a beauty! I know you want to preserve this mountain as much as I do. Just a reminder, don’t litter. Bring all your trash with you and dispose them properly.

I can’t contain my happiness. All smiles!

After almost 5 hours of trekking, finally one of the highlights of this adventure is a souvenir photo on top of Gungal rock. When we got there, we had to wait for our names to be called. We weren’t the only team at that time. We waited for almost an hour, but it was all worth it.

This one is my favorite. When I look at the people having themselves pictured on top of this magnifico rock I told myself I want to experience that too. At first I was hesitant, I admit I felt apprehended. Thanks to my best friend who always encourages me to embrace my fear and more so to my husband who not even once left me all throughout our adventure.

Finally after another two (2) hours of hard knocks, still and all one of the best experiences I have was being on top of Mt.Ulap.

We made it! The feeling of content and fulfilled had become our chant going down the trail.

• For some, especially the mountaineers, the trek to Mt. Ulap is normally 4-5 hours, however in our case it took us 8 hours to finish the trail. That includes taking photos, rest time, and I admit I had the slow-moving pace in the team.

Happy, gratified, and accomplished!

Vitalis Villas: Your Santorini-like in Ilocos

For the last 3 years the husband’s calendar on 22^nd of December had been blocked with commitments. Could either be wedding, birthdays, and other special occasions. On our 4^th year nothing had changed, yet we wanted to try out something different, away from the mundane so planned to have it advance. It was more special, because we had our little one with us this time. Nothing would be more interesting and lovely than that! What’s more lovelier is to having our 4^th in the snuggest picturesque Vitalis Villas in Santiago, Ilocos Sur. Villas are perched on a mountain cliff, overlooking the beautiful sea and Santiago cove.

Prior to booking and all, we had read impressive reviews about the place. What’s more attractive is its greek theme. The whole structure is ponderous in cozy and romantic way.

The Villas are mostly coated in white and spice of blue. A Santorini- like in Greece!

The resort has three (3) types of Villas which are massively spacious.

One- Bedroom villa  good for 2 persons with full board meals. The 1-Bedroom Vitalis Villa (Published Rates: Php 11,450; Super Peak Rates: Php 12,950).

Two-Bedroom Villa good for 4 persons including full board meals (Published Rates: Php 18,900; Super Peak Rates: Php 21,400).

Two-Bedroom Villa with private pool access good for 4 persons including full board meals (Published Rates: Php 20,900; Super Peak Rates: Php 23,400).

Additional occupants are charged Php 1,975 with full board meals and resort activities, and Php 2,750 with full board meals, resort activities, and Vigan Day Tour.

Children 12 years old and below are free of charge.

Each villa has a kitchen equipped electric stove, microwave oven, refrigerator, tea, and coffee station. It also has comfortable beds, clean linens and towels. It has a shower area and comfort rooms with modern features and what I like most about it, is their one-of-a-kind-not-the-usual-state-of-the-art toilet. You’ll surely love it too. Could stuck in there plainly watching my fave show or instagramming and facebooking. Haha!

For the seaholics, oceanholics this could be a great destination for you. The view is perfect. Just the calmness, tranquility, and serenity of the place makes you fall in love with it over and over. Dipping in to their infinity pools is so refreshing especially if you had a long drive. It is so relaxing and the ocean view is just mesmerizing.

You want your own pool? No problemo! There are 2 Villas that have access to the private pool. You can leisurely chill  and dip in with your loved one/s comfortably and conveniently.

Wait until evening comes, the most romantic for me! By the time we went there, Christmas was just around the corner,so the place was Christmassy! There were different and colorful lights around the place and every step has lights on every corner to guide you in roaming around with your loved one. The place is so peaceful at night. You could only hear the calming waves thrusting the shore. Complete way to zen. Each villa has its cozy and open veranda. You can talk something fanciful over a cup of your favorite tea and coffee and reminisce the good memories or any of your sweet nothings.

Aside from its faultless view, the resort offers delectable food too which you can’t resist! They serve in buffet style. Make sure you’re stomach empty so you could taste all. We were famished and excited to eat that’s why we only had one pic, but really food taste good!

The resort has its own mini zoo! Perfect both for your little ones and well, to not so little anymore. They will let you feed the animals too with their zoo keeper’s assistance. And because we were after the healthy rays we decided to go in the morning the next day.That will be your choice anyway.

The visit to the zoo is free for all check-in guests of the said resort.

*To zipline seekers you can enjoy the ride from Vitalis Villas to Vitalis Whitesands for 350 per person. The baby is with the mommy and daddy so there was no chance to try.

In addition to staying at the resort as a check-in guest,you have the access to their Vitalis Whitesands just across Vitalis Villas. You can also enjoy their water sports activities like Jet Ski, paddle boats, kayak, banana boat, and beach volleyball. We chose Kayak! It was a fun funny experience. Was my first time and I kept laughing while trying my best to paddle. And was stunned as to how my husband so well at paddling and helped me to it.

*To get there, they have their own shuttle ride for free. They could drop you by at the resort and they’re just a call away if they will bring you back to the Villas.

It’s time to say goodbye to this lovely place for now. Sure will visit here again.By the way, before leaving this beautiful place check out their mini stalls. They sell different local and unique products. You can buy some of them as souvenirs.I bought a cover up the one I used in the picture above and still using it until now.

Everything is really to be thankful for and cherish! We enjoyed and savored each minute we had in Vitalis Villas. It was one great and wonderful experience. Above everything, thank you to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the protection and provision. We Love you!

Vitalis Villas
Sabangan, Santiago, Ilocos Sur
Facebook: VitalisVillas
Website: http://www.vitalisresort.com
Telephone: +63 2 3733333

Hazel Lyka S. Diaz

Fearfully and wonderfully made.

Highly favored child of God!

Blessed with two beautiful souls, an amazing husband and lovely daughter.

A quick Valentine getaway in La Union

A quick Valentine getaway in La Union

My husband and I were planning where to go next for a short jaunt this Valentine’s day. Since our daughter is only a year old and 3 months and only have a day for some “babe time” we’ve decided to go somewhere near our place and we came up choosing La Union. We’ve been to the place a few times, but normally on a work basis and now our itinerary is quite an adventure. We planned to have a date at Flotsam Jetsam since we like the mood and inviting ambiance of the place, but we failed to check their schedule and only to find out when we got there that they’re close every Tuesdays. So for you guys, who wanted to visit the place keep that in mind. Good thing, we are quite familiar with the place and another we had our data on so we could check places we could spend time into.

Started my day with lotsa smile and adrenaline high for Vday FunVenture

Here are the places we squeezed in to visit for a day tour:

 

1. Since we arrived at the place a little late we had our brunch at Kahuna Hotel café and restaurant located at National Hwy, Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union, Philippines. As what I have mentioned above, we were supposed to go to FJ’s and apparently they were closed and kahuna is just meters away from there so we tried Kahuna and it didn’t fail us. The view was so perfect and cool. You could hear the sounding waves with random people surfing, same with those learning. Their food taste good as well. Had their sisig, baby back ribs, and their refreshing strawberry shake. There are many food to choose from though, depends on your likes. For their other services and offers here’s the website http://www.kahunaresort.com/.

 

2. After having our brunch we leisurely walked along the beach. It was inviting! Make sure to put your sunblock on by the way. You could also try surfing which I believe would be so fun. We didn’t get the chance though, forgot to bring extra clothes for that matter. Oh and don’t worry there are surfing instructors who could help you too even if you don’t know how to swim. Simply strolling around is already enjoyable. Remember if you will be having a day tour in La union bring extra clothes with you. There are many adventures that might await you, you just don’t know.

 

3. Who won’t love coffee? El Union Coffee offer some of your faves hot or cold with the place instagrammable, surely you’ll love it more. Tried their iced mocha to beat the heat and peppermint iced tea for the hubs. El Union coffee is situated along Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union, Philippines.

 

 

 

4. For those history devotee like me include Ma cho temple in your list. It is a temple to the Chinese sea-goddess Mazu located on Quezon Avenue in Barangay II, San Fernando, La Union. It is open to all, for worshipers and non-worshipers alike. You can roam around the place and take some photos with your partner or friends. The place is so solemn and clean so better keep its cleanliness and solemnity.

 

5. Our time hit 3 and only means one thing, to taste La union’s best halo halo de iloko as requested by my date at  #12 Zandueta St, San Fernando, La Union. His first time here and was overwhelmingly happy. I was tummy full so I ordered their regular one and the hubs their special buko halo halo. It’s really perfect especially with its delightful atmosphere. Aside from their famous halo halo they offer other delectable meals too.

 

6. We finally decided to go back to San Fabian since it’s getting late, but the hubs asked me to have a look of Thunderbird Resort at Poro Point Freeport Zone, San Fernando, La Union. Upon entering the place the guard will ask you about your purpose and they required us to surrender one id for their reference since we do not have any reservation from the said resort. We were only there for sightseeing, to dine in, and for some inquiries. It’s a 65-hectare Mediterranean-inspired dream destination in North Luzon. The place is so magnificent and indeed deserves its tagging as the Santorini of the North. You can check their website for your personal inquiries at http://www.thunderbirdresortsporopoint.com/

 

7. As we headed way back home “The Lomboy farms” caught my attention. It is situated right beside the highway of Bauang, La Union with a comfortable receiving area. If in La Trinidad they have strawberry picking, in Bauang they have grape picking. They didn’t ask for any entrance fee and you can freely check the farm and take some photos just be careful with the vines and all. Be sure though it’s its season or else just like us you could only see the vines. The best time to visit is in late March or April according to “manong” who works in the farm. I’m sorry wasn’t able to get his name. You can buy and choose your grapes with their assistance, how fun is that?! And Oh! Aside from grapes there are also guava-apples in the farm and they look so appealing. There are different kinds of wines they sell too. You can ask for free taste if you’re interested. Best are their dragon fruit and wild blackberry wine. Since they were very accommodating and friendly we bought some of it.

 

For a quick getaway in La Union you can try and check some of the places I have mentioned above. If you are adventurous and high spirited kind of soul you can visit Tangadan Falls in San Gabriel La Union. We didn’t have much time to trek and witness the beauty of the place, but surely be back there soon.  It was a day full of love, laughter, and best memories to cherish. Yes, as they always say Valentine ’s Day should be every day. Couldn’t agree more,yet spending quality time out of your comfort zone once in a while is not bad, not at all. You can share your love in so many ways, in different ways. It’s up to you how, when, and where. And remember Valentine is not just for couples, but for everybody. Have a day and days ahead filled with love.

 

 

 

Hazel Lyka S. Diaz

 

Fearfully and wonderfully made.

Highly favored child of God!

Blessed with two beautiful souls, an amazing husband and lovely daughter.