Happy Ripples Resort – San Fabian, Pangasinan

It may not be a very good time to be out and about to do team building (and do lotsa obstacle course challenges) in this kind of weather but its still a good timing to do a wellness retreat with co-employees.

After all the hard work and busyness in the office, the management have decided to do a wellness retreat at Happy Ripples Resort.

The main objective of this wellness retreat is to boost self awareness and self value with all different workshops and activities prepared. We were accompanied by a professional psychologist, Ms. Belai Gruenberg.

Yey! The girls are so ready for self-discovery activities!

The Happy Ripples Beach Resort is located in San Fabian, Pangasinan. This resort was built by a certain owner, Mr. Romeo Pinlac. This was erected as a private resort intended only for family and close friends of the family, said by one of the staffs in the resort. Thus, the resort was publicly opened three (3) years ago.

The resort has a one (1) pool 3ft-5.5ft which you may enjoy anytime of the day.

Despite of the not-so-good weather, the pool is still inviting.

The place is really a perfect place for the whole family or with a group of friends. But most especially, its really a good place for a retreat, with all the amenities and function areas needed, be it with outdoor or indoor activities.

Garden venue for outdoor activities and a covered entertainment area for indoor actvities.

It also has different rooms for overnight accommodation, be it for small or big groups.

Other areas where you may conduct some of the activities include the place in front of the beach where you may eat and do some of group activities such as enhancing your writing skills.

I can still feel the cool breeze coming from the beach. Such a sweet sound of waves!

We were able to maximize the afternoon by the beach.

The wellness retreat we’ve attended have given us so much self-realization and discovered more about ourselves which led us to understand more our own capabilities and embrace the strengths that we have, as well as known our weaknesses. We have discovered other things we can do that we did not realize before that we can do it.

Some of the activities done are more of self expression through writing, mission-vision and setting of self goals, and art as well! We have also enhanced building trust with our colleagues and friends.

And the main highlight of this getaway is more of indulging ourselves with food!

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My favorite part? The morning yoga session by the garden!

A very wonderful day, indeed to do this deep breathing session this morning — yoga!

Happy Ripples Beach Resort rates and other information:

For a relaxed getaway with family and friends, try this beach resort in San Fabian, Pangasinan and have a happy feet!

Maniwaya Island – Sta. Cruz, Marinduque

It has been roughly four months after we have had the Vitamin SEA, our nerves and skin have been that thirsty to the crystal-clear-and-salted water of the ocean. The month of June is the beginning of rainy season here in the Philippines, but it takes a lot of timing and preparedness as we planned to set sail on one of the beautiful islands of Marinduque, the Maniwaya Island.

Maniwaya Island is located in Sta. Cruz and one of the smaller islands in Marinduque. Other islands near the Maniwaya are the Mompong Island and Polo Island. 

The legend of the island of Marinduque is so interesting as it was formed as a consequence of a tragic love affair between Mariin and Gatduke.  Same as the old tale stories go that the parents of the female character, Mariin did not approve her love for Gatduke and planned to behead the male character. Before this would happen, Mariin and Gatduke eloped and sailed to the sea, which they drowned together forming the island which is now called Marinduque.

And so we went to Maniwaya Island via Grand Central Terminal in Lucena then rode a van going to Gen Luna where the port going to Maniwaya Island is located.

 

These gents are right on time!

We are so ready to do this!

The water colors from dark blue turned to sky blue to clear emerald green as we reached the beautiful island of Maniwaya. We met few flying fishes along the way; some part of the ocean with clear emerald green colored water is welcoming us with corals and starfishes under.

It is so easy to spot Marikit-Na Resort as it is located in front of the beach. You will be greeted by this beautiful and high-end looking façade of the resort with its huge name made of Bamboo with different paint colors, just enough to see that you arrived at your destination.

Know more about Marikit-Na and what it offers here.

After the sumptuous breakfast, we are so ready to explore Maniwaya Island. First stop is the other side of Maniwaya Island where Palo Maria Resort is situated. We are so lucky to have the sun up despite the weather forecast of thunderstorm. And that we are the only human beings having fun in this amazing island!

We fell inlove right then and there!

More fun under!

Crystal clear! It’s like a mirror!

Quality water in this island!

All of us just can’t get enough!

More under water shots please!

We can’t resist the water, oh yes!

Next stop is the Mompong Island where you can find the amazing Ungab Rock Formation. It’s so fascinating and everyone was left in awe with this view!

Jaw-dropping view of Ungab Rock Formation.

Just WOW!

Groufie with this beautiful scenery!

Ungab Rock Formation is such an exceptional beauty of art! A bridge-like rock formed with an opening that shaped like a witch hat, added by the crystal emerald green water, it is so beautiful. 

We surely are having so much fun under the sun!

You can clearly see in our skin how we enjoyed the water and sun. But the most awaited place is yet to be revealed this afternoon! Before we lose all our energy, we decided to head back to Marikit-na Resort to recharge our energy for the next adventure – the Palad Sandbar!

After eating lunch and resting a bit, charging phones and securing photos captured awhile ago, we are all set to be amazed in the middle of the ocean!

With the 15-minute boat ride from the Marikit-na Resort, we were greeted by one of the most amazing creations in the middle of the ocean!

Palad Sandbar at its finest!

You can only see the Palad Sandbar in a very limited time, as the water is low tide about 3:00PM-4:00PM, there you’ll see the amazing Palad Sandbar in the middle of the ocean. The waves a little strong as they meet at the center of the Sandbar; be careful as you swim at the sides of the sandbar it may be deceiving but some parts are deep so better not risk.

This is just so amazing!

Sun-kissed!

I won’t mind playing horseback riding or do the signature tumbling!

Yoga-ing at the Palad Sandbar! Amazing!

We call ourselves so blessed as today is a perfect day with the sun beaming at us as we enjoy ourselves with the waves. Oh the clear blue-green ocean plus, the Palad Sandbar let us enjoy its magnificent!

How romantic this place is?! For friends and for lovers! 

Now I understand why Miss Earth 2015 Candidates chose to stay at Marikit-Na and explore Maniwaya Island!

Again, this place is so AMAZING!

Itinerary:

June 19, 2015

1:25AM – Jac Liner Bus Terminal at Buendia (Gil Puyat LRT Station)

3:45AM – Grand Terminal Lucena

5:00AM – Van Terminal going to the Port of Gen Luna

8:00AM – Boat ride from Gen Luna Port to Marikit-Na resort

9:30AM – Breakfast at Marikit-Na resort

10:00AM – Island hopping (Mompong Island and side of Palo Maria Resort Shore)

1:00PM – Go back to Marikit-Na resort for lunch

2:10PM – Lunch at Marikit-Na resort

3:30PM – Going to Palad Sandbar

5:50PM – Go back to Marikit-Na

June 20, 2015

6:30AM – Breakfast

7:30AM – Island hopping and swimming time

10:30AM – Back to Marikit-Na for snacks and preparation to go back to Manila

12:00NN – Set sail to Gen Luna Port

1:30PM – Van from Gen Luna going to Grand Central Terminal Lucena

3:00PM – Bus going to Buendia (drop off at Dela Rosa)

9:00PM – Arrival at Dela Rosa, Makati

Total cost/pax: P2, 588.00

P209 – Bus Fare to Lucena Grand Terminal

P160 – Van from Grand Terminal to Gen Luna Port

P1000 – Boat Fare (P6000/boat and can hold about 8 pax)

P150 – Budget per meal

P700 – Accommodation overnight

Marikit-Na Resort – Maniwaya Island, Sta. Cruz, Marinduque

Marikit-Na Resort is our first choice as soon as we have plotted the plan of our getaway. It is not only because of the aesthetic that you will see from all the blogs across the internet but most especially the positive write-ups we read about it with their excellent service. As we are all into excellent service and good food, we surely hit the phone to make reservations. No down payment needed (no hassle indeed).

From the port of Gen Luna, the people who will fetch us at 8:00AM are surely on time with a big smile as they (Philip and Francis) greet us good morning!

For about one (1) hour and twenty (20) minutes boat ride, we were welcomed by this lovely façade of Marikit-Na Resort. White sand and emerald green-crystal water, I can say that this will definitely be a good stay!

I can live here forever!

Upon arrival, we were greeted by these hospitable people of Marikit-Na with a welcome drink, cheers! You have to register your name and contact number for security purposes.

Cheers with this thirst quenching lemonade!

As we are about to see our room and where we could store our backpacks, we are so amazed how wonderful and organized the place is! No wonder Ms. Earth 2015 candidates chose to stay here last month and enjoyed their summer vacation!

Such a mansion with style.

And hello to this spacious area! We occupied the 1^st floor with two (2) small rooms, one (1) huge room with 3 beds and a bathroom with bathtub! How cool is that? Vacation it is!

Hello very organic-theme house.

Bathroom, anyone?

 

Bathtub – like a boss!

   

Melodramatic area

Food is excellent! Breakfast is served and before going out and do the island hopping, you just have to give your orders for lunch and before you know you’re hungry, meal is already served!

 

Tocino paborito!

Yummy!

 

They have their own bar area and a movie theater room! You may watch one free movie of your choice, but will need to pay for the succeeding movies you want to watch. Though, it is not yet fully operational, so opted not to.

Marikit-Na is the only resort in the island that has a solar panel and so you don’t need to worry with the electricity, it is 24hrs! Though some of the rooms still don’t have AC units, but they have electric fans. Overnight stay is not really so comfortable as it’s really hot since we chose to stay in one huge room and there is actually no wind coming inside. 

There are other resorts around the island so you still have other options. But we are all recommending Marikit-Na resort, not only on its affordability but more importantly, the people who are giving excellent service and are hospitable enough to accommodate all our needs.

Hello from me and twinny! 

 

What a wonderful area to relax.

P.S. There’s a corkage fee for any liquor that you will bring and drink in the resort which is same price of the liquor you bought. However, should you wish to drink, they have beers and other hard liquors to offer. They also offer other junk foods and toiletries, just in case.

Experience Marikit-Na Resort. Contact Sir Ron at 0927-878-9782

Diguisit Falls | Ermita Hill | PAG-ASA | Ditumabo Mother Falls — Baler,Province of Aurora, Quezon

Baler is really something, we don’t know it yet but today is the day to learn more about it.

We woke up with a not-so-good weather but who cares? Today is our chance to do the highlights — we will be on our way to see the Mother Falls and today as the surfing day!

And we are all set to this adventure!

First stop: Ermita Hill. It is said that this hill saved lives during a tsunami way back 1975 where there are only six (6) families who have survived.

Due to the moderate-to-heavy rain that day, we did not clearly see the view of the ocean from the hill and so we have decided to go on..

View from Ermita Hill, first attempt.

Since we are just ten (10) minutes away from the humble office of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), and a once in a blue moon to get there so we grab the opportunity to see what it offers, and to literally ask what would be the weather later (we’re planning to have our surfing 101!) and tomorrow as we get off the road to go back to the city.

Unfortunately, it’s Sunday and no office, though the office is open and a caretaker is present, we had the chance to go to the rooftop of their humble office.

Now this feels like somewhere so grand!

Well this will always be a groufie signature! 

Up we went to Ermita Hill then another higher ground to see PAGASA, now off we go to the intriguing Diguisit Falls and Aniao Islets.

Diguisit Falls is literally a baby falls, it is actually along the road that you may just stop and feel the coldness of the water as it flows up from the mountain.

We arrived at Aniao Islets area just as the rain pours and it adds up to the melodramatic view and feel.

AMAZING!

Aniao Islets is my favorite. There is something about it that makes me feel so excited and recharged. There is something that I couldn’t explain further, but the happiness that filled my heart and soul is suddenly overflowing like the water around it. It is just so beautiful!

The next time we come back here, we would definitely not miss the chance to see Aniao Islets again.

All the excitement and joy that we felt consumed all our energy and that we decided to eat first before we jump out to see the Mother Falls.

From the entrance, locals have already gathered with their tricycles and are all geared up for the adventure. Only then I can really feel that there is something about the place that makes it really so challenging.

We hired 3 tricycles (7 people) to go back and forth the mountain, fare at P100 per person. I even volunteered to walk from the entrance to the mountain but luckily it was not pursued as it will take you an hour or two before you reach the main entrance of the forest.

Welcome to the Ditumabo Mother Falls!

There are stations where local tourism officers are collecting donations as part of their fund in maintaining the beauty and cleanliness of the forest. (Entrance Fee already part of the package)

And off we go to our little and surprising adventure!

Ready for a little trekking, yes!

Too many challenges but we surely enjoyed and passed all obstacles.

Breathtaking view. It literally captured my breath a million times!

It’s not easy but you’ll surely enjoy it! Don’t forget to wear your extra energy to overcome this current.

For about an hour or two, we arrived at one of the most amazing creations we have ever seen!

The Mother Falls!

The water is soooo cold that it feels like it’s coming from a big fridge from the other side.

This is so amazing!!! (in Anna’s tone in Frozen)

All the obstacles and the trekking and the rain, all worth it! So BEAUTIFUL! It’s not yet too late guys, don’t miss the chance to see this beautifully God-crafted mother falls of Baler when you got the chance.

Museo de Baler | Doña Aurora’s Mansion — Baler, Province of Aurora

Baler is historically known as the birth place and hometown of the second President of the Philippines, Manuel L. Quezon. The province of Aurora was named after the first lady and love of President Manuel named Maria Aurora which is situated in Central Luzon of the Philippines.

Baler is popular amongst yuppies and other adventurous, and sporty individuals due to the place’s beautiful and amazing tourist spots which would give you a little challenge to see and try. Baler is very known with its Baler Bay which is in the northeastern part of Luzon Island and is now prominent with its nickname as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines.

My friends and I have decided to explore Baler over the weekend so as to release all the negative energies and replenish positivity in our system as we bond with nature.

We started our journey at 12:30am from Fort Bonifacio going straight to Baler with a private vehicle from Dreams and Destinations Travel Agency. The trip went on for about five (5) hours and the moment I opened my eyes, we are already in the simple town of Baler.

We went straight to our hotel which is located in Sabangan, the Akkaw Beach Resort to deposit our bags and get ready for a beautiful day of exploration and surprises.

After boosting our energies, we are all ready to roam around the city. First stop, Museo de Baler.

Like any other museums, Museo de Baler has a great collection of different artsy bitsy which includes paintings of different famous people in the history. Need I say more of all the paintings of the second President of the Philippines, Mr. Manuel L. Quezon? Oh and all other historical paraphernalia that the movie Baler of Anne Curtis and Jericho Rosales have made use.

A good chance to make selfie with Pres. Quezon

More groufie photos!

Pictures of Filipino artists.

Can’t get enough with these paintings.

Children’s artworks.

Entrance fee is P30.00 each, this is already for both the Museo de Baler and Doña Aurora’s Mansion. Make sure to keep the stub as you will need to hand over it in Doña Aurora’s Mansion tourism officers.

Doña Aurora’s Mansion is just a walking distance from the museum but due to the rain, we need to ride our van and delay the walkathon in the town.

Veranda of Dona Aurora’s Mansion

The house was already restored, but the materials used were same as the original materials–bamboo and nipa hut.

Pres. Manuel’s library

Paintings in every corner of the house.

Now here’s the part of the vicinity where you can see and touch the second President’s car.

Purely history and the cold breeze makes us more hungry than ever, and so we decided to go out now to Aurora’s Mansion and off we go to one of the best Bulalo Eateries in town.

Yolly’s Ihaw-ihaw and Seafood Resto is known for their Bulalo and other yummy seafood at an affordable rate!

Surely enjoying the sumptuous meal!

Full, yes and sleepy as the weather (the rain is getting stronger by then) suggests to tuck in ourselves with the warmth of the rooms of the hotel and so we decided to call it a day (though it’s still afternoon), pave our way back and rest.

First day, rainy and windy it is but we had a happy feet!

Patar White Beach – Bolinao, Pangasinan

It was indeed a very good sleep in El Pescador Resort and Hotel. And we won’t let the chance of stepping here in the island of Bolinao without visiting some of the hidden treasures of the town.

The sun is up and scorchingly hot but who cares if we are about to see the amazing white sand and clear water of Patar White Beach!

From Bolinao market, there is no direct jeepney or bus going to Patar white beach, as it is located at Brgy. Patar which is about 45minutes from the town proper. We hired a tricycle that will drive us to Patar white beach for P400 back and fourth (we are with a local friend and so we had a good fare rates).

Lucky us (especially me who is a first timer) to be riding the tryk with cemented pavement. There are only short rough roads as the local government is still on its way of smoothing these parts of the road.

And.. Here we are!

Sure, there are lotsa coconut trees and greens everywhere, and A LOT of beach resorts too!

Though we’re still miles away from Patar white beach, the sea is already caressing us, as you will definitely feel and smell the scent of the ocean.

Patar White Beach is said to be known to many as the Boracay of Pangasinan.

I am struck with amazement, indeed.

The fine white sand that connects me instantly through my bare feet. It’s as if calling me to stay and play under the beautiful sun.

My friend have mentioned that the white sand (as you will notice from the picture) was moved a little higher due to the typhoon and after-shock effect of the tsunami in Japan way back. Never did it get back from its original shoreline ever again.

Before we scanned the whole area, we need to power up with yummy local cooked food!

We made sure of stopping by Adora’s eatery to buy these home-cooked food. Adora’s situated in Bolinao Market near the Church.

This view left me in awe.

It’s really soo beautiful.

To couples who are in the middle of looking for spots to where you can have your pre-nup shots, you may wanna consider this island. 😉

Well here are some of the sample shots (photos are captured via iPhone only and it would be more beautiful via pro cameras for photoshoot).

Those were some of the rock formations by the beach.

Who cares about the sun? It’s indeed so fun under the sun!

Double peace! I really love it here!

More of the rock formations by the beach.

Rest and capture moments in this shady part with these rocks.

More of the rocks situated in the beach front.

We’re not really so afraid of the heat.

The place is also good for walking and talking about decisions in life, yes. Minus the sun, its better when you do it during twilight.

Do not worry about not able to bring your food, there’s a canteen that sells snacks. Take note of the price though, it’s surely higher than the supermarket of course.

Patar white beach has several cottages to rent. During our visit, cottage is about P300.

Upon payment (you may pay during or after your stay) the locals who are tasked to collect (from the Baranggay office) will give you an official receipt.

And the place also have several souvenir shops for tourists who would want to buy something to remember from their journey to the island.

We opted not to swim that day but we had fun roaming around the beach.

We packed our things and before we called it a day we are so ready to venture to our next destination!

Nonetheless, we are really having a happy feet!

El Pescador Resort and Hotel – Bolinao, Pangasinan

It’s amazing to start this wonderful 2015 with a happy feet!

One of the things written in our bucket list is to travel and explore one of the most amazing provinces in the country, Pangasinan and we have started it in the hidden paradise of Bolinao.

I’ve always dreamed of going to this place all my life! Though it’s within the province where I grew, it seems so impossible to go due to sandwich schedules and all the alibis I can think of. But hey! The mindset and my dreams have already pulled it to the next level!

From Dagupan City, we traveled for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, and reached the town proper of Bolinao.

If you are already in Dagupan City, there are available buses and vans going to Bolinao. We rode a van for us to make it in the afternoon, just before the sunset.

Yay! Ready to go, yes.

Bus going to Bolinao.

Beside is the Bolinao van terminal. 

Fare from Dagupan City to Bolinao town proper is P110 per pax (no student fare for van transportation).

Upon arriving at Bolinao market, we rode a tricycle bound to El Pescador Resort and Hotel where we chose to stay for the night. Fare is at P10 per pax.

And, voila! Welcome to El Pescador!

You will not get lost as people are all aware where El Pescador is situated. 

Now here’s a little background about the resort. This is owned by Jesus Salvador F. Celeste and the name El Pescador means The Fishermen as the area’s main living is fishing. 

The scent of the sea welcomes us as we enter the place.. 

El Pescador has a service van that may be used for its guests, especially those who will be coming from other countries. There’s a package deal for the service from the airport to the resort. You may check out agoda.com and tripadvisor.com.ph for online reservations.

Same as the other hotels, they offer rooms with different styles and ambiance.

Whether you are a couple, a group of friends or an extended vacationer family, you certainly have a place here.

*Kubo Cottage Double Bed: P1,550
*Legacy Double Bed: P1,650
*Legacy Queen Bed: P1,750
*Legacy 2 Single Bed: P1,850
*Twin Building Double Bed: P2,350
*Legacy 2 Double Bed: P2,550
*Twin Building King Bed: P2,650
*Kubo 2 Double Bed: P3,350
*Legacy 3 Double Bed A: P3,450
*Twin Building 2 Bed: P3,550
*Grand Hotel Double Bed Room: P4,000
*Grand Hotel 2 Double Bed Room: P4,500
*Twin Building Family: P5,650
*Power House: P5,950
*Beach House: P6,950
*Twin Building Attic A: P11,550
*Twin Building Attic B: P12,550

And we opted to stay here!

The beautiful Kubo Cottage. Stay and feel its nature-rich-in-culture room for P1,550 (good for 2).

Now here’s the inside of the Kubo Cottage:

Relaxing, indeed.

It has its own balcony, an air conditioned unit, a television unit with cable, toiletries (but no dental set) and a wired phone but is not yet working.

It doesn’t have its own comfort room, but  the common comfort room is just beside the Kubo Cottage so its not really so hassle.

Now let’s see what the resort offers..

It has two swimming pools with slides, this one is for adults. From 3 feet to 5 feet deep.

And here’s the kiddie pool with this kiddie frog slides. Isn’t it cute? I know right.

The swimming pool is not limited to guests of El Pescador, it is also open to visitors who don’t want to check in the hotel but want to swim.

Visitor’s rate at P100 for adults and P300 for the shed where you can have your picnic.

Take note of the reminders, okay? They have lifeguards of course.

And someone is having fun with the sun and water, alright.

If you are not in the mood of playing around the pool, you may also bond with the waves in front of the hotel. But during our visit, the sea is low tide and calm.

It also have well-styled gazebos just in case you want to have your breakfast by the beach front.

There you go..

Isn’t it relaxing, yeah?

El Pescador has function rooms and conference areas. They also have several cafeteria..

And here’s another cafeteria with souvenir shops.

The whole place is not yet in full operation as they are having expansions and renovations going on. The beach front hotel is about to finish and soon to operate to accommodate more guests.

The place is good for couples, family and friends who are looking for adventure within the area. You may also do a reservation to make it a hassle-free trip.

El Pescador is near the town proper and about 45 minutes from the boracay of Pangasinan, the Patar White Beach. 

El Pescador Resort and Hotel
San Andres, Bolinao, Pangasinan, Philippines

Contact number: 075-554-2559 / +63999992618

Website: http://www.elpescadorbolinao.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elpescadorhotel

Have a happy feet!