Camarines Norte Part 2: Bantayog Festival and More

Beautiful (untouched) beaches, warm people and mouthwatering food, these are the words that I can think of whenever I remember my first Camarines Norte visit. Going back to the place popularly known for the powdery sand and clear waters of Calaguas Island makes me very excited to discover more its beauty.

[caption id="attachment_5835" align="alignnone" width="800"] BANTAYOG FESTIVAL CAMARINES NORTE DAET[/caption]

We have 2 main agendas on this visit (and a lot of sub-agendas aka food haha).

To explore more islands we didn’t able to visit.

To experience the annual festivity called the Bantayog Festival.

The only thing I dread when going to Cam Norte is the almost 8-hour drive from Manila to Daet (the capital of the province). Long drives really isn’t my thing, especially with winding roads along the route. The only saving grace to this is that you know that you will be in paradise the moment you step out of the bus... or just book a flight to Naga, Camarines Sur. 

ISLAND HOPPING IN MERCEDES

The first time I visited the municipality of Mercedes, it was raining hard, the reason why our island hopping was very limited. This time around the weather was PERFECT!!!!!

Mercedes is well known as Camarines Norte’s biggest fishing port and along with it, are the famous 7 Islands. (Siete Pecados). For this trip we planned to visit as many islands possible!

Geared with an overnight bag (with mostly swimming wear….and charging ports haha) the moment our bus arrived in Daet, we went straight to the port in Mercedes.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bh8namsDWhp/?taken-by=kennethsurat

Fast forward, we ended up visiting 5 out of 7 islands and stayed overnight at one. Here are the islands we visited:

MALASUGUI

Our first stop is the island called Malasugi. It is the smallest island among the seven. They said it even looks like a big sand bar. On a perfect day it is a good place to lounge and soak in, but unfortunately our visit here was cut short due to some jelly fish spotted. So off to the next island!

[caption id="attachment_5801" align="alignnone" width="800"] We found 2 Jelly fish swimming..or should we say floating near the shore.[/caption]

CARINGO

After that jelly fish encounter, we were more careful and observant before rushing to take a plunge. Good thing our next island destination was clear of any threat (haha big word). Caringo is a village-island, I am not sure if this is a proper term for it, but, among all the islands we visited this one is a proper "barangay" (town), complete with a functioning school and a church.

[caption id="attachment_5811" align="alignnone" width="800"] Locals living in Caringo Island. Most of them are fishermen and also work as boatmen for tourists during non-fishing hours[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5802" align="alignnone" width="800"] Fresh catch lunch![/caption]

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bh-nlEMDe4o/?taken-by=kennethsurat

Things to do here aside from exploring the town proper, where you can find the oldest recorded house in Mercedes, you can also hire a small boat and go snorkeling. We also had our lunch here, which is a super spread of the fresh catch from the ocean with an easily voted favorite dish, sinantol.

CANIMOG

Third island in the list is actually the largest one. On our first trip in Mercedes, we originally planned docking here, but because of the strong waves, it wasn't possible, even if we use our puppy eyes to the boat captain. So to finally explore this island is such a treat.

The main thing to do in Canimog is to make a short trek to the lighthouse to enjoy one of the best views in Mercedes (this I guarantee). I wasn't really expecting a lot but when I saw the beautiful rolling hills and the untouched shore from the viewing area, I was in awe.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bh-bDtWjTk-/?taken-by=kennethsurat

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bh-bGieDjv8/?taken-by=kennethsurat

The only thing, I am not sure if there is a good spot here where you can swim. There should be? right? Also if you are planning to go for "the trek", don't be intimidated if it looks far, in reality you'll be there in 5 min (less than 10 min for sure) and the path is paved, easy breezy!

APUAO PEQUENA 

An island with a lush forest! This is how I can describe Apuao Pequena Island. Aside from the obvious perfectly laid out pine trees, there is a patch of large forest where you can trek and watch bats fly above you. WILD! I must admit that doing the trek was a bit scary, especially there are also wild boars roaming around.

[caption id="attachment_5807" align="alignnone" width="800"] Our little trek inside Apuao Pequena Island[/caption]

Aside from "bat" watching, at the end of the trek is a cliff with a breathtaking view. Which is a perfect sunset spot.

 APUAO GRANDE

Last but not the least, we ended our day in Apuao Grande. It is a short walk from Apuao Pequena (connected by a sand bar--how cool is that?). We stayed here for the night. At first, I thought we will be camping here, I was happy to know that there are cabins in the island where we can take a shower, charge our gadgets and also a bed to sleep on. YEY!

[caption id="attachment_5808" align="alignnone" width="800"] Our little cabin in the island![/caption]

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiAxl2JjYT5/?taken-by=kennethsurat

It was a tiring day but with all the things we saw, it was worth it. I can't believe even, that seeing the beauty of Mercedes is just the beginning of our visit in Camarines Norte.

To book a tour around the 7 Islands of Mercedes visit and contact the Mercedes Municipal Tourism Development Operation Center

Address: Mercedes Fish Port Compound, Brgy. 7, Mercedes Camarines Norte

Contact No.: +6354444-1261

Email: discovermercedes@yahoo.com

 

REVISITING JOSE PANGANIBAN

With another day to explore the province before we head immersing at the month long festival happening in the capital, we thought of revisiting our steps in Jose Panganiban. After a meeting at the mayor’s office, with our limited time, we plotted things we missed during our first stay in the province.

TURAYOG PLACE

Again, this is one of those places that we originally planned to visit during our first Cam Norte blogger trip. However, during that time, it was closed due to the weather. Our supposed to be tour became a time to munch on freshly baked breads and coffee (talk about a good counter offer haha). But this time, we were back with the vengeance (not quite..but yeah you know what I mean).

It is a short hike from the small sari-sari store at the entrance of the compound. The view from the hill looks amazing! The best part is, you can actually book it overnight and have bonfire and camp. Hmmm smores with a view.

Check their FB page here

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiMIK2HjybY/?taken-by=kennethsurat

BULALACAO BEACH

Eventhough to be honest, it is not the best beach in the province, this is indeed one of the most accessible in town. Only a few minutes drive from Turayog Place and just on your way to Pulang Daga beach. This can be a good stopover to dip and catch the waves.

[caption id="attachment_5799" align="alignnone" width="800"] Just chilling at the Bulalacao Beach[/caption]

We had a short stop to get wet and to chill a bit. There is a small cluster of chalets where you can sit down and enjoy the view. If you are lucky you can even catch a mang babalut passing by.

THE BANTAYOG FESTIVAL

Finally, our visit in the province ended with a big celebration in Daet. We watched the annual street dance festival participated by some of the towns from Camarines Norte. This is part of the month long celebration called the Bantayog Festival (which also coincides with Cam Norte's 98th Founding Anniversary)

FYI: Bantayog Festival is unlike any other festivals in the country, where most of the fiestas are in honor of  the town's patron saint. Bantayog Festival celebrates the first "bantayog" (monument) in memory of the late Dr. Jose Rizal. 

[caption id="attachment_5383" align="alignnone" width="800"] The famous batayog of Dr. Jose Rizal in Daet Camarines Norte[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5800" align="alignnone" width="800"] The street dancers from San Lorenzo[/caption]

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiEcc0LD1nn/?taken-by=kennethsurat

I've been to several festivals around the Philippines and I love how the kids participating dance like their lives depend on it. With the energy of the performers and enthusiasm of the people watching (even on a hot, scorchy day) this street dance kicked off very promising.

Read also

Manggahan Festival, Guimaras Island Philippines

Baragatan Festival, Palawan Philippines

Aside from the street parade, there is also a main performance inside the town gymnasium. The crowd went crazy cheering for their municipalities (even us haha). Can’t wait to share with you guys my vlog during the festival (visit my youtube channel here).

For the meantime here are some snaps I got from the 14th Bantayog Festival Street Dance Parade.

[caption id="attachment_5806" align="alignnone" width="800"] The deligates from the municipality of Capalonga[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5805" align="alignnone" width="800"] Deligates from the municipality of Daet[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5814" align="alignnone" width="800"] The muse of Daet[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5815" align="alignnone" width="800"] The delegates from the municipality of Paracale[/caption]

It was indeed fun to be back in Camarines Norte. I experienced the same hospitality and warm welcome with even more food haha.

Now looking forward for my 4th visit!

To know more about Camarines Norte, you can read also

Travelogue: Camarines Norte

Parola Island: Camarines Norte's Pink Beach

 

OFFICIAL PROVINCIAL CONTACT INFORMATION

Provincial Tourism Office:

Come2camnote@yahoo.com

(054) 440-0034

Tourism Office of Jose Panganiban:

Ruth Marie P. Forteza- ruthmarieforteza@outlook.com

Tourism Office of Mercedes:

Nanette N. Ibasco- discovermercedes@yahoo.com

(054) 444-1261

Mercedestourism.com

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This post was in partnership with the Camarines Norte Provincial Tourism Office and Katooga.ph .Check out all social media posts at #KatoogaCam and #ComeToCamNorte #LovekosiMercedes #TripleTheFunInJosePanganiban

Where I stayed in Boracay: Ferra Hotel Boracay

I have been in Boracay numerous times but whenever I thought that I had enough of the Philippines most famous island getaway, I always find myself back in its arms and lounging under the sun and working on that tan.

As I needed to be in Boracay for a wedding, going out partying (with the backpacker crowd) wasn’t really on top of my priority list, let’s say I was a tito (uncle) of Boracay on this particular trip .

I stayed in a backpacker hostel (more of like a party hostel) on my first day, though, I am a hostel enthusiast whenever I go outside the country backpacking, I wasn’t that eager on staying a few more nights sharing a room with strangers on a supposed to be an R&R trip.

[caption id="attachment_5506" align="alignnone" width="800"] A sweet room welcome[/caption]

Good thing, Ferra Hotel is just around the corner from the hostel I initially stayed in. I moved to Ferra Hotel and was really glad I did. Located at a walking distance from Bulabog Beach and the crowded touristy D’Mall, it is in good proximity away to mask the busy and chaotic party beach scene but also close enough to enjoy the White Beach without paying a transport (tricycle).

The design of the hotel is geared towards modern minimalism. A perfect Instagram backdrop I must say. It gives a vibe of a boutique hotel which is bordering on intimacy. If you spend a few days in the hotel, you will know all the staff by name already (even some of your neighbors. )

[caption id="attachment_5512" align="alignnone" width="800"] Hotel's reception area[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5501" align="alignnone" width="800"] Modern Asia Restaurant[/caption]

ROOMS

I got the superior room which is good enough to fit 2 people. An ideal room for someone who’s going solo and want a retreat from the busy island or for a couple looking for a cozy place to relax (or express their passion—oops TMI).

I found the room just enough to cater my needs. Complete with a cable tv, dvd player, mini fridge, mini bar and a wifi (YES). In total, the hotel has 37 guest rooms including a loft type room perfect for group parties (note: this room has its own kitchen). Check out my friend Gael’s post about this room.



[caption id="attachment_5514" align="alignnone" width="800"] Ferra Hotel's Superior Room[/caption]

DINING

My room included a buffet breakfast at the Modern Asia Restaurant located at the ground floor. There are selections of a typical Filipino breakfast, longanisa, tapa and at one point even a danggit (dried fish). The interior fits the whole feel of the hotel. Modern-Minimalist! It also has an access to the hotel’s cute pool, which I didn’t pass dipping in.







If you feel tired going around the island’s gazillion restaurants, you can get a little down time on it’s rooftop bar, The Ruf Resto Bar. I had a privilege to try out their mouthwatering menu. Note that I was practicing a Ketogenic diet/lifestyle during this visit, but I think it was worth the additional sugar and carb consumption for the day.





 

All in all this hotel is a refreshing addition to the ever growing hospitality experience in Boracay. A perfect place for young professionals who want to experience the island in style, yet don’t want to miss out on all the action that the island can offer.

Will I got back? Definitely!!

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This post is in collaboration with Ferra Hotel Boracay. All opinions, editorials and photographs are my own. 

BOOK A STAY AT FERRA HOTEL BORACAY

Sitio Bulabog, Balabag, Bulabog Beach, Boracay Island

(+63)(36)2881177 to 79

Official Website

 

Where I stayed in Boracay: Mad Monkey Hostel

Boracay! One of the world's most beautiful islands (#1 according to Conde Nast Traveller). There are so many thing said about Boracay already, whether good or bad, but one thing remains the same, it is still one of the Philippine’s sought after paradise destination.

[caption id="attachment_5435" align="alignnone" width="800"] Amazing Boracay sunset. I didn't put any filter on this photo.[/caption]

As most tourist(y) locations around the world, accommodations can easily be available to those who dream of visiting these places. Boracay offers several accommodation options, from apartments, party hostels, boutique hotels and even top notch luxury hotels.

I was in Boracay to attend a friend’s wedding and during my stay I opted to try 2 of these accommodations. I thought of trying a party hostel to see the backapacker/party scene-hello millennial and a quieter boutique hotels where I can just relax and enjoy my weekend stay in the island (tita levels).

For a party hostel, I have chosen Mad Monkey Hostel while I booked a room at Ferra Boutique Hotel on the later part of my trip (review on the blog soon).



[caption id="attachment_5442" align="alignnone" width="800"] Definitely a happening place[/caption]

Mad Monkey Hostel is the biggest “party hostel” chain throughout South East Asia. With chains in countries such as Cambodia, Thailand and of course in the Philippines.

I got few of my friends who tried this hostel in Phnom Penh and also Boracay and they gave a stunning review about it.

Read one here: Mad Monkey Review by  my friend Rona 

LOCATION

The location of the hostel is a bit strategic. At first glance, this seemed to be a no no, because it is a bit far away from all the happening places in the island. The transfer from the ferry then the tricycle ride felt like it took me forever to reach the hostel ( I opted to DIY and look for the cheapest way possible—more on this in the VLOG soon).

When I finally located the hostel, I realized that it is situated in between two famous beaches in the island. Both within a god walking distance from each other. The White Beach on the left while the Bulabog Beach on the right.

[caption id="attachment_5440" align="alignnone" width="800"] The flood situation in front of the hostel[/caption]

The only hiccup on the way is what seems to be a little flood along the street in front of the hostel. I spoke with the locals and they said that it isn’t a unique case, as everyday it is like that (sometimes higher when it rains). --- I can see some effort by the hostel to pump-out the water every now and then. –so just be warned that if your balance ain’t good, you’ll be better of wearing flip flops than your sneakers.

DESIGN

As an architect/interior stylist, I always get fascinated on how hostels are being designed nowadays. Infusing FUN-TRAVEL in the design is a must. I think this was achieved by Mad Monkey Hostel Boracay. I love the mix of whites,blues and also native/local materials – creating that clean island resort feel.

[caption id="attachment_5439" align="alignnone" width="800"] Open layout facing the pool. YES!!![/caption]

The open corridor also makes the space feel larger (and fresh). You can just sit down in front of your room and you can easily fall a sleep, relaxed and livin’ the island life.

PARTY HOSTEL

It is coined as a party hostel and the hostel boast with it’s happening pool bar. It isn’t a fancy pool bar ok, but a casual bar in an island. Just enough to kick off that party atmosphere. There are free shots every hour ---so talk about setting the mood right.

[caption id="attachment_5444" align="alignnone" width="800"] Early morning scene..or let's say the after party scene?[/caption]



It mainly caters to foreign backpackers, I feel like Filipino backpackers will tend to spend their evening along the food stall in White Beach. I do feel the charm of the hostel’s bar. I love hostels and being with like minded people (whom you just met) and share a drink can certainly fuel your wanderlust (cheers to the citizens of the world).

ROOM

I stayed in a 4-bed dorm room. I like the layout of the room as the bunk beds isn’t placed side by side to each other. There is a wall in between the 2 bunk beds (this a luxury for those who are used to staying in a hostel dorm I tell you). The bed size is also very generous, it is close to a double/twin size bed, can easily fit 2 –but why share right? Take it all for your self (I told you, luxury).

[caption id="attachment_5448" align="alignnone" width="800"] My bed with your own wall fan (though the room is fully air conditioned)[/caption]



The room is fully air-conditioned, lockers and an en-suite toilet and bath. The only thing I can see in improving the hostel is to have their T&B refitted. The shower looks old and a bit damp, my standard for a good shower room is, if I can step in the shower floor without my flip flops --- this one, I kept them on.

RECOMMENDATION

Will I recommend Mad Monkey Hostel Boracay? It is indeed a value for money. With a dorm room for less than 10 usd, this place is a steal. If you are traveling solo, this is a perfect place to meet like minded people and enjoy Boracay without breaking the bank.

Will I go back? I actually can’t wait!

MORE DETAILS

Zone 5, Bulabog Beach Road, Bulabog Road,

Boracay, Aklan, Philippines

Phone: +639052479898

Email: boracay@madmonkeyhostels.com

website

facebook

Philippines: Parola Island, Camarines Norte's Pink Beach

With our quest to discover the province of Camarines Norte one of the places we went to is an island called Parola Island

check out my travelogue here

Visiting a province known for its amazing beaches and islands, it was (a bit) shame that we end up being on a trip during a storm signal no. 1. Good thing, after a day of roaming around municipalities under an umbrella, the following day we were given one of the clearest skies of the week.

[caption id="attachment_5410" align="alignnone" width="800"] Drone shot of Parola Island courtesy of CamNorte Tourism Office[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5411" align="alignnone" width="800"] Another drone shot of the island courtesy of Camarines Norte Tourism Office[/caption]

When I heard about this ‘PINK BEACH’ located in the town of Jose Panganiban, I knew already that we shouldn’t miss visiting it. Some of the locals even said that it can compete with the now very famous Calaguas Island which also can be found in Camarines Norte.

When we had a go signal from the coast guard (remember, there was a storm the day before, that is why we needed to wait for the coast guard’s advice) we immediately packed dry bags and we set to go.

GOING TO THE ISLAND

From the town of Daet, we drove to the municipality of Jose Panganiban and hop on a boat going to Parola Island (see where to book at the end of the blog). Our journey was very smooth, surprisingly, the water was very calm.

[caption id="attachment_5376" align="alignnone" width="800"] The boat ride going to Parola Island[/caption]

Package trips going to Parola Island

Php 2,200.00/head pick up Jose Panganiban (min. of 12pax)
Php 2,500.00/head pick up Daet (min. of 12pax)

Inclusions:
– Port Fee
– Environmental Fee
– Boat Transfer
– 3 camp meals (buffet)
– 1 plated meal at Turayog Resort
– Resort Entrance fees
– Life Jacket
– Unli Cocktail drinks (Mobile Bar)
– Land Transfers from port to Turayog and Bulalacao Beach

I was so excited to know that this island isn’t as famous that Boracay and Calaguas Island (yet), and not everyone knows that there is actually a “pink beach" located just a drive away (also a few minutes boat ride) from Manila.

Although there were already a bunch of people when we arrived in the island, I didn’t mind it. I still felt the remoteness and (at some level) untouched paradise the moment my feet touched the sand. Some of them were tourists who camped overnight while the others were locals from the province.

[caption id="attachment_5408" align="alignnone" width="800"] The only cottage in the island. Our home for the day.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5401" align="alignnone" width="800"] Can't wait to run down the beach and swim.[/caption]

There's only one cottage in the whole island, good thing, it was reserved for us (YEY—PERKS). To make sure that you’ll be able to use the cottage and have a smooth stay in the island, contact the local tourism office of Jose Panganiban before you plan your trip (details at the end of the blog).

PINK BEACH

Let’s talk about the pink sand that the locals were raving about….ermmmmm…how can say this, well, it was a very shy pink to be honest. I don’t know if we were in a wrong season or it will be the same all year round. Also just a disclaimer, it was the first time that I visited a pink sanded beach, so I don't have any reference.

[caption id="attachment_5405" align="alignnone" width="800"] The Pink Sand[/caption]



The longer we stay, the more the sand looks pink. It’s either my eyes worked really hard for my expectations to be met, or the sun’s position (and angle of sight) really helps to show the pink pigment in the sand. This rare sand color happens when a red coral dries up and washed to the shore.

….. ok ok ok… In their defense, as the sun sets, the pink shade started to show

Without focusing on the pinkness of the sand, THIS ISLAND IS STILL B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L !!!

[caption id="attachment_5409" align="alignnone" width="800"] During low-tide, a sand bar will let you access this island on foot[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5375" align="alignnone" width="800"] Can you see the pink now?[/caption]

Crystal clear water surrounds the island and if you’ll visit on a low tide, you’ll experience walking on a sand bar connecting 2 islands.

No inhabitants (as the island is too small to create a community), No electricity, No bars, No restaurants just a simple island as your play ground (with data coverage ^^). Just the way I like my island!

[caption id="attachment_5407" align="alignnone" width="800"] Look who's happy being in Parola?[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5406" align="alignnone" width="800"] Traveling with my new Cabin Zero Urban Carry On. This bag is water resistant (link on my Cabin Zero review here).[/caption]

Read also: Packing tips from the Pros: Kenneth Surat

PAROLA

The island is called Parola because of its light house (parola means lighthouse in Filipino). I love how the pathway going to the lighthouse seems like you are on your way to Survivor’s Tribal Council Area (oops, favorite reality show reference). Located at the head (and probably the highest point of the island), doing a side trip from your island getaway to visit the lighthouse is highly recommended.

[caption id="attachment_5365" align="alignnone" width="800"] The mysterious pathway going to the lighthouse[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_5402" align="alignnone" width="800"] The parola[/caption]

I really don't have any historical notes about the lighthouse and I can't find it in google as well, if you somehow know, please share it at the comment section below.

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Parola Island was surprising. Aside from the pink sand beach, I wasn’t really expecting a lot. But I think that is its charm, there weren’t a lot happening in the island. It gives you an opportunity to enjoy the island for being…well…an island. I love every moment we were there.

As the island is gearing up to be the next Calaguas Island of Cam Norte, the hope is for the local tourism office to provide a clear regulation in protecting the beauty of Parola Island, at the same time, for tourists to become partners in its preservation.

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TO GET MORE INFORMATION ON ITINERARIES AND RATES

Provincial Tourism Office:

Come2camnote@yahoo.com

(054) 440-0034

Tourism Office of Jose Panganiban:

Ruth Marie P. Forteza

ruthmarieforteza@outlook.com

Van For Hire

Northlink Events and Travel Services

Darius Mirasol.

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This post was in partnership with the Camarines Norte Provincial Tourism Office and Katooga.ph .Check out all social media posts at #KatoogaCam and #ComeToCamNorte