Showing posts with label adventures. Show all posts
Showing posts with label adventures. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

catching up series: sandbox adventure

Here we go! This one I'm excited to write about. This was (still) back in July 2016. Yes friends, July pa din tayo in this catching up series. Pasensya na po, mahina ang kalaban. :)

As you all know, July is my birth month, so this was like my birthday adventure. This was extra special to me because prior to this, my last travel was way back 2013. That was when I went to Ilocos with Foursome. Wait, let's make it rain with links just as I usually do. Just in case, you wanna read some more? Hehe!


So anyway, for my birthday adventure, we went to Sandbox in Pampanga. Can't exactly remember whose idea it was but most likely, mine. Hehe! I went there with my college friends and work friends combined. So baka nga ako ang nag-aya ng trip na 'to. Oo, ako nga siguro. :P

Also, I can't remember if we booked in advance or what. Medyo matagal na rin po kasi, ano po? Haha! But I remember that we all met up at a coffee shop in Cubao, and Dwin was the last to arrive. He was the one driving for us so hindi namin sya maiwan. Hahaha! Kidding! Of course, we wouldn't. 



We got there a little late for lunch, so we started our Sandbox adventure with food. And again, I couldn't recall what we had for lunch. The thing is, the photos I took were saved in an old laptop that refuses to turn on already. I only stole photos from Jov's Facebook uploads, and some more that I posted on Instagram. Good enough photos to back-up this kwento.




So after lunch, first stop was the Aerial Walk Challenge. According to their website, it is an adventure course of nets and rope walkways that will test your agility, balance and flexibility. True enough it tested mine, most especially my balance. That's actually my weakness! I can't ride a bike, remember? Who you callin' loser? Haha! 

For this challenge, you'd have to give your camera to the guides if you want photos. Non-joiners can't come near the rope course so even if Jhov didn't join, she was only able to take photos from the first part of the challenge. Sheena went first, and then me, Den, Jun and lastly Dwin. And as much as I'd like to describe each part of the challenge in detail, mahirap eh! Hahaha! But I'd let the photos do the talking..


Believe it or not, this was easy for me despite my short legs. :P


The next photo shows the most difficult part of the Aerial Challenge, at least for me. It was too high and you literally have to walk on the rope, with only hanging ones to help you out. My legs were shaking because duhhh, wala talaga kong balance, and to make it worse, it was hard for me to reach the rope guides. This was four years ago but writing about it makes me remember how I felt at that moment. Feeling ko wala ng katapusan yung challenge na yun. Hahaha!



Aside from Aerial Walk Challenge, other activities were Avatar One, Adventure Tower and the Giant Swing. Avatar One is the Philippines' first roller coaster zip line. Their website says, "You don’t just zip down the 180-meter course. You zigzag along starting from 12 meters high." Although, I wasn't able to find photos from this activity (there might be in the old laptop!), I'd borrow photos from the net just so I can you show. The Avatar one was such a fun twist on your rather usual zipline experience.

via 

Next was the Adventure Tower. It's 15 meters of wall climbing, rappelling and free falling. We actually have a short video of this on Facebook but I can't download it. Also, the guide told my friend that taking videos wasn't allowed so he stopped recording. Weird if you think about it. Why would you prevent your patrons to record such thrilling moments? Hmm. But anyway.

I did all three activities of the adventure tower but I was disappointed with myself that I did not get to finish the wall climbing part. I was heavy at this point of my life kasi. Haha! But the first time I did this in Eco Park, I got to finish it. Must try again for the third time when I'm more physically ready aka thinner. Haha!


via

And then lastly the Giant Swing. Well, almost! Hehe! Unfortunately, we weren't able to do this because it started raining. Some visitors opted to still do it when the rain turned into light drizzles and honestly, I was inggit. No one from our group wanted to continue na kasi and the swing was made for two people. I'd look dumb if I do it alone. Haha! 

via

Aside from the activities I've mentioned, they also have ATV, Go-Kart and Splash Tub. I think the latter was a new addition. I don't think they already have it when we visited. They also have a kiddie playground with picnic areas, mini golf, airsoft and paintball. 

Now, if you're gonna ask me how was the Sandbox experience, I'd say it was fun and definitely challenging but kind of bitin. The rain was a party pooper kasi. But definitely, it was one for the books. Every new adventure naman is worth looking back to. 

Would I want to go back? Yes! For the Giant Swing! Hahaha! Good night, folks! :)


ELSEWHERE

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

rivercreek farm

Last month's highlight was our impromptu mini vacay at Rivercreek Farm. It's a farm in Guiguinto, Bulacan that's being managed by my cousin's hubby. They moved there way back and we've been wanting to visit ever since. Obviously, life happened again and it was only mid last month that we were able to visit. Biglaan pa!

It was Saturday morning when we were contemplating a visit the next day. My sister then told Teigs {our cousin} and that's when we found out that kuya Marvin {her hubby} will be running errands later that day. Instead of bargaining for a Sunday visit, my sister agreed to meet them after lunch of Saturday. FAIL! Only mom, me and my two sisters were available that afternoon. Papi was tired from the long week of work and my brother just woke up from a Friday gimmick.

Anit {my sister} was rushing us the whole morning 'cause according to her, kuya Marvin will pick us up at 1pm. We were at the meeting place at around 1:30 if my estimate is right. Que Horror! We've finished our dessert already, incidentally saw half of Foursome, and still haven't heard from our sundo.  Apparently, kuya Marvin didn't receive Anit's text message. I sent another one despite of her annoyance and that's the only time we got a reply. I was already pissed when they arrived at around 3pm. For the record, I'm blaming my sister for her inefficient organizing skills. Hahaha! And yes, maiksi talaga ang pasensya ko. Sorry na! :P


We got there at around 5:30. They began taking photos as soon we got down our ride. They also started roaming around after we have settled. Tapos ako, ayun nagmumukmok sa isang sulok. Hehehe. Don't get me wrong though, I rarely do that. Medyo masama lang talaga ang tama ng sumpong 'cause it was the time of the month. Girls, I know you understand. :) Anyway, they fetched me up for dinner and I had no choice but to go with them, else I'd die of hunger. After that, I felt a little lighter and I slowly let go of my ugly monster side.

What was supposed to be a day visit turned into an impromptu overnight stay. Teigs was more than willing to rummage their closet to look for nighties that we can borrow. When we were finally ready for bed, we squeezed in a short kulitan with our nephew, Marcus. Yep, he's the little warrior I blogged about before. He's still fighting Neuroblastoma and is undergoing treatments so your prayers are very much needed and appreciated. :)



I woke up before sunrise the next day 'cause it was super cold. Teigs was up early too so she served me breakfast while waiting for the others to wake up. Also, Dana brought her lappy and it kept me entertained until the crack of dawn. Then I made the most out of the morning by taking selfies and photos of the place. Sarap ng walang kaagaw sa limelight. Hehehe.

good morning, Bulacan ❤


Of course when my bitches woke up, I got demoted from model to photographer. Our favorite prop was the tractor. We'd ride it and do different haciendera poses. Mga feeling, when in reality kahit bike wala kami. Hahaha! Mom joined the riot too. Kunwari pa naiinis sa instructions ko, tapos nakapagpalit agad ng profile picture. Parents nowadays. 

Joyce aka Anit

Dana





#OOTD


We stayed down the bar for a while then kuya Marvin accompanied us to see the sheep and goats. It was fun giving them grass to eat. Although the big ones, and those with horns are kind of scary.  Lalo't di ko naman pinangarap ang masungay ng kambing. :P




Quick snack then we headed to the ponds to fish. Can I just say that it was SOOO FRUSTRATING?? I'm a frustrated many things but If I have to choose the worst one.. that would be this, FISHING. Next would be biking, then wakeboarding, then sandboarding. See? Told you there's a lot. Going back to fishing, it's been my frustration since Boracay 2012 happened. We went fishing and only one among seven actually caught a fish. So that's easier to accept. But this one??!! Anit caught four while Dana caught two.. AND.I.GOT.NOTHING. Bilad na bilad na 'ko, wala pa rin! The conclusion? I was too loud and maligalig for this hobby. But I'm not giving up just yet.. you'll see.



on the way to the fish pond




Lunch came next. While we had sinigang for dinner, we had adobo for lunch. Teigs cooking never fails. I'm a fan of my father's cooking and only Teigs can put up a fight. Above all, almost everything is organic in their farm - from their food, to their drinks, to their lotions and topical creams, down to their meds. Full-fledged quack doctor na ang pinsan ko. Hehe. She's also very willing to share her knowledge to the point that mom was almost convinced to switch to everything organic.

We then prepped to head home. And because Teigs is the awesomest of all awesome hosts, may mga baon pa kami - organic rice, epsom salt, clothes.. pati halaman gusto pang ipadala. Hahaha! Kuya Marvin was equally awesome too, sending us again all the way to TriNoma. Whewww!!




Thanks a bunch again Teigs and kuya Marvin! May God continue to bless your beautiful family especially our little warrior. We shall see you again soon. And oh, can't wait for Xana! ❤


ELSEWHERE

Thursday, December 26, 2013

ilocos sur-ilocos norte: itinerary, expenses and some link loving ♥

Whattup guyz? As promised, here are more details on our public tour package from Parana Tours and the usual itinerary, expenses and blog post links.

Parana Tour Public Tour Package (P3750/pax, 10-12pax/van)
  • Inclusions
    • 3 Days &  2 Nights Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte Tour
    • Van Transfers, Manila-Ilocos-Manila (Brand New Toyota HiAce Commuter 15 Seaters)
    • Standard Resort Accommodations (Maria Exaltacion Lodge, Cathy's Beach Resort or Klasik Beach Resort
    • Entrance Fees & Local Guide Fees
    • Gas, Toll Fees & Driver's Meals & Accommodation
    • Taxes & Surcharges, with Official Receipt & Itinerary of the Tour
    • Freebies (side note: can't exactly remember if we had any. meeh.)
  • Reservation & Payment Details
    • Reservation fee of 1000 php per pax must be deposited at least earlier than or 2 weeks before the scheduled tour dates.
    • Send the scanned copy of deposit slip on the given email address (rson68@yahoo.com) attached with information chart. (side note: they'll be sending the chart as soon as you inquire.)
    • Please keep your deposit slip for it will serve as your receipt for your down payment.
    • Please settle your balance before departure on the chosen pickup point of participants (always ask for the official receipt).
    • Reservation fees are non refundable but transferable to a replacement/proxy participant.
    • In-case of a last minute back-out or no show, the participant's group will be responsible for the payment of his/her balance.
    • Reservation fees are only refundable if we cancel due to target slots were not filled (participants will be advised 3 days before the trip).
    • In-case of weather issues Parana Tours will reschedule the trip at least a week after the client’s target date.
    • Children (3-7 years old) are entitled to a 50% discount of the package price.
    • Different rate applies for foreign nationals.
    • Account Details:  7570028772 Parana Tours BDO San Pedro Rosario Branch
  • Other Reminders
    • Meals are not included for personal preferences.
    • Always remember to pack light, only 5 kilos of baggage is allowed per participant. (side note: they didn't check our baggage. :P)
    • Driver/tour coordinator's contact details will be sent 3 days before the trip thru SMS or email.
    • Print and sign the tour voucher/contract and present it to the assigned driver/tour coordinator before full payment (ask for official receipt).
    • Group tour van seating arrangement is on first come first served basis, please come early to your assigned pickup point.
  • Contact Details
    • Parana Tours
    • Blk 2 Lot 8 Phase 2-C Pacita Complex 2 San Pedro, Laguna
    • (02) 847-4415  
    • 0917-8242223 
    • 0949-1244654
    • rson68@yahoo.com  
itinerary from Parana Tours


Here's the catch: There were differences between our actual itinerary and the one provided by Parana. For one, we didn't get to visit the Sinking Bell Tower in Laoag. Also, we visited Bangui Windmills on the third day instead of visiting it on the first. Then the time slots. Soo.. this is where my precious stories come in. Hehehe. ✌ Check out the links below to find out what actually transpired during our 3-day Ilocos Tour. Enjoyy!!





Friday, December 13, 2013

day1: ilocos norte - batac and paoay tour


It was a quick drive from Ilocos Sur to Ilocos Norte. At around 12:30pm we're in Batac already specifically in Sikat-Tuna Inihaw Restaurant. Ughh!! That restaurant! It took us more than an hour waiting for our food. If you know me that well, you might have guessed that I complained. Ha! I did! The owner ended up explaining to me what's causing the delay. Turned out, some of their employees didn't report for work that day. She apologized and it seemed sincere kaya nakalma naman ang lola nyo. Don't get me wrong though, I know I'm not the nicest person one could ever meet, but I'd like to believe I'm pretty rational. I show appreciation when it's needed but I voice it out too when I'm not getting what I deserve. Should be that simple!

welcome to Ilocos..
NORTE

Past 2pm, we were in our first destination {I mean in Ilocos Norte} - Marcos Museum and Mausoleum. Taking photos inside the mausoleum is prohibited. Common sense, the departed ones deserve to be treated with our utmost respect. And the late president is getting just that. Inside the mausoleum are the presidential seal, Philippine flag, floodlights {it's dim inside}, tons of flowers, red carpet walkway and uhhm strict security. Guests should line up as they enter on one side and must keep walking towards the exit on the other side. Really quick viewing. We didn't visit the museum though.

Googled facts: (1) It's in the barangay of Lacub, city of Batac, province of Ilocos Norte. (2) The embalmed body of former president Marcos is laid out in a mattress, air-sealed in a glass coffin and lit by floodlights. (3) The odyssey of his remains began when the government of former President Corazon Aquino denied Marcos' return to the Philippines. Thus Marcos' remains was interred in a private air conditioned mausoleum at Byodo-In, a Japanese Buddhist temple, on the island of Oahu. (4) In September 1993, Marcos' remains were finally taken to the Philippines. The newly elected president Fidel Ramos, second cousin of the late president, allowed Imelda Marcos to bring her husband's body home but refused her demand for a hero’s burial.
 
Marcos Museum and Mausoleum

From Batac, we then headed to Paoay. We were in Paoay Church at around 2:30pm. I started with a short prayer inside then I joined them in the never ending picturan. It was even drizzling then but as the famous line goes - nothing can stop us!

Googled facts: (1) It's in the municipality of Paoay {well, obviously} and in the province of Ilocos Norte. (2) It's also known as the Church of Saint Augustine. (3) Its construction began in 1604 and was completed in 1710. (4) It's a prime example of Earthquake Baroque architecture. (5) In 1993, the church was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one best example of the Baroque Churches in the Philippines.

Paoay Church

Next stop: Malacañang of the North. We were there 3ish. As soon as we got inside I started roaming around alone. As much as I enjoy the company of my friends, I need to be alone from time to time too. Abaa, ang laki na nga ng naimprove ko from being the socially challenged ugly little girl. Hehehe. I bumped into them accidentally in the second floor and it was the death of my me time. After the tour, we stayed a little longer around the vicinity for an empanada session, we left quarter to four.

Googled facts: (1) It's in the barangay of Suba, municipality of Paoay, province of Ilocos Norte. (2) Malacañang of the North was the residence of late president Ferdinand Marcos and his family when they are in the north. (3) After Marcos was deposed in 1986 and died a few years later, the palace was transformed into a museum of the late president’s memorabilia. (4) It is now managed by the Department of Tourism.

#annoyingselfie
ang dumi ng salamin. bow

Malacañang of the North


Our last, and my favorite destination.. Sand Dunes! Yeeyyy!! Sabi naman sa inyo adventurous ako eh. Kayo lang kasi, ayaw nyo maniwala. I swear it was my favorite among the eleven places that we visited, restaurants included. I remember how I felt exactly; I can't contain my excitement. Then, in a snap of a finger, I was pissed. We were assigned an ugly 4x4 ride, and I don't mean the bulok kind of ugly, it was ugly in a way that it doesn't look like the usual 4x4. While the boys were okay with it, Monique and I sneakily turned into little monsters and insisted on what we want. Sorry, boys! A girl's got to do what a girl's got to do. ;)

Googled facts: (1) 4x4 ride is more correctly called as off-roading. (2) Off-roading is the activity of driving or riding a vehicle on unsurfaced roads or tracks, made of materials such as sand, gravel, riverbeds, mud, snow, rocks, and other natural terrain. (3) Dune Bashing is a form of off-roading on sand dunes.

How was my dune bashing experience like? It was a thrill of a lifetime!! Yes, I've done other risky activities in the past, but this one.. this one?? Parang kasalanan ko kung mamamatay ako. Haha! All manong driver had to do was to drive {and make it exciting} while us, his passengers, kinailangan naming magkapit tuko para manitilang buhay. Hahaha! Ang hirap nun ha! Kidding aside, it didn't scare me at all, it's just that.. ang hirap talaga kumapit. Hehehe.



Paoay Sand Dunes

Our next activity was sandboarding. It wasn't originally included in the package that we paid for pero nagmakaawa kame kay manong driver. Bukod sa sadyang busilak ang puso nya, nangako na rin kame ng pordaboys. Hehehe. We agreed to lessen the time of our 4x4 adventure in exchange of a quick sandboarding experience - two tries each exactly.

Having said we only had two tries each, syempre hindi successful ang sandboarding stint ko. I'm a self-confessed slow learner when it comes to physical activities but I make up for it through perseverance. Unfortunately, hindi ako nakapagpersevere this time bilang limited ang bonding moment namin ni manong. Nakooo, nadagdagan na naman ang frustrations ko sa buhay. I suggest you watch the videos below to understand how much of a failure I am. Hahaha!

first try

second try


'cause you have to be able to laugh at yourself ❤

After almost an hour and a half of messing with the sand, we headed to Saud, Pagudpud to check-in. We bought food on the way 'cause apparently there's nowhere we can buy food from in Saud that late. We had roasted chicken and rice. We borrowed utensils from our accommodation and ate in the front porch. Comfiest meal of the day - oh well, I was in pajamas.

Speaking of our accommodation, it wasn't bad at all. I knew it was going to a budget one as it's included in the package but it was surprisingly good enough. We were only four in the group but the room we got can squeeze in up to six people, seven even. Monique and I shared the bigger bed while Job and Mark shared the double deck.

Here's a funny story: Supposedly, Job will use the upper bunk and Mark, the lower bunk. Then we heard Job ask for a blanket from Mark. The latter gave the blanket obviously annoyed. Turned out, there was only one blanket in their bed. Job found out and felt guilty so ang ending? Tabi rin sila natulog. Haha! I swear I'll never forget how they exchanged lines. I was so amused with the two as usual. Hehe. ✌

We chitchatted our way to sleep and that was the end of our first day in Ilocos. Ang sarap lang matulog ng hindi nagsisiksikan, see previous post. :P

*vids & photos from Tiny except for those in the first & second collage; and my selfie too