Sirang Lente is a travel-related website that showcases stunning photos, updated travel itineraries, backpacking ideas, and hiking guides.
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| A speed test result for GFiber Prepaid and Sky Broadband. |
As mentioned in my previous post, SKY Fiber Home Internet: You Need to Know, I am not really happy with Sky Broadband. Because of the inconsistent service I am getting, Plan 999 is not worth it for a single-dwelling apartment! With that experience, this is where Globe's GFiber Prepaid comes in. It started in the Facebook group, but when they offered a 1 Peso promo for the installation fee, I grabbed it and had it installed.
#WhatsOnSKY Sky is the cheapest postpaid Fiber Plan and Cable Service provider in the Philippines. There's a struggle for mobile reception in the area, so I have no choice but to connect to a Fiber line. I've signed up for Plan 999 and used their service since June 2021. In general, the broadband service in the country could be better. Like other internet providers, Sky had service interruptions due to system upgrades and maintenance. Although the speed or quality of service remains the same after those technical works, hhmm, probably, they are improving their service. The real problem started in June 2024, that's after Converge took over Sky. Update: On December 26, 2024, I began using Globe GFiber Prepaid Plan 699, and the result was very good. Read here: Speedtest Result
In Surigao del Norte, you can find the "surfing capital of the Philippines." This tear-shaped island is the top destination in the province of Surigao del Norte. It is indeed a surfer's paradise because of the gigantic waves but if you're not into surfing, like me, you can still enjoy the pristine beaches, explorable caves, fresh surroundings, and unique island lifestyle. With time pressure, from the province of Dinagat Islands, I traveled here to discover its beauty. Read: 3000 Pesos Solo-Backpacking in Siargao.
It was Day 7 when I visited the beautiful Province of Agusan del Sur. The province doesn't have coastal areas, so the only purpose of my visit was to discover the stunning Bega Falls. Its name is derived from a local word, "Bega", which literally translates to "flirt" in English. According to the local folk story, the area is the home of the mystical women. One that is sure, Bega Falls, is picture-perfect because of its majestic landscape. From the crystal clear waters free flowing from the towering limestone cliffs carpeted with ferns and mosses. The strong water pressure created a natural pool at the base that serves as a swimming pool.
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| Photo: Beautiful view of Isla Jardin del Mar. |
The Province of Sarangani became more popular because it's the hometown of Manny Pacquiao's wife, Jinkee. The boxer even represented the province in the Philippine Congress in 2010. But before being associated with the Pacquiao Family, the province is already known for its stunning tourist spots, must-visit attractions, and gorgeous destinations. Having said that, my solo backpacking in Sarangani focussed on one of its fine beaches in Glan, the Isla Jardin del Mar. Refer to Helpful Links below.
Creating an itinerary and traveling to Balut Island wasn’t easy because of its geographical location. Also known as Malulong, this volcanic island situated in Southern Mindanao is definitely the top tourist destination in Davao Occidental because of its fine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and gorgeous landscape. Not only that, the people here are friendly and approachable. There’s a bit of a language barrier, nonetheless, locals can understand English, Tagalog, Bisaya, and I’ve heard some locals that speak Indonesian.
Mt. Apo is a dormant stratovolcano in Davao Region, Mindanao and it measures 2,954 meters above sea level. It is dubbed as the "bubong ng Pilipinas" because it is the highest and the father of all the mountains in the Philippines. Its circumference stretches to two provinces in the southern Mindanao region, the provinces of North Cotabato and Davao del Sur. Though this mountain is considered active, trekking on its terrain is safe and can provide a package of remarkable experiences and photos to be shared. Read: Mount Apo
Mount Hamiguitan is one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines because it is the home of thousands of flora and fauna. Some are endemic or can only be found on the terrains of this mountain. Not just the richness of its bio-diversity, its mountain range showcases the spectacular and breathtaking natural beauty at its finest. Because of that, it was declared as a sanctuary by virtue of R.A. 9303. With its natural wonders, it was also included as one of the ASEAN Heritage Parks. In 2014, this mountain was added to UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites. Read: Mt. Hamiguitan
"The Latin City of Asia" was given to Zamboanga City because of their language called "chavacano," similar to Spanish. The city is situated on the Southern side of the Zamboanga Peninsula and on the Northern side of Basilan. Aside from their language, the city is also prominent with their "vinta," a colorful and stunning sailboat or watercraft that is usually used by the locals. Using Google Maps, had a walking tour to their top tourist spots and destinations.
The top tourist spot and destination in Southern Leyte is the cathedral, a catholic place of worship in the city. It was originally built in 1700 by the Jesuit priests; however, it was severely damaged because of the Moro’s rebels. The bricks and the mosses on the façade give an older and unique look which is perfect for modern selfies. This cathedral is definitely one of the historical pillars of the province. Since it is situated in front of the plaza and a few meters away from the City hall, it is one of the busiest areas in the city. You must include this historical place on your itinerary.
Amandaraga Falls is the top tourist destination in Lawaan, Eastern Samar. This majestic waterfall has an artistic rock formation on the side; the cool and pressure of the falling crystal-clear water is perfect for body massage. Not only that, the sound of the rushing waters preserves tranquility with the help of the relaxing green surroundings - it is just breathtaking! READ: Solo-Backpacking in Region 8
Boracay is a gorgeous island in Malay, Philippines; it is unique because it is described as one of the world's most beautiful white sand beaches. It is famous for its fine white sand, crystal clear waters, spectacular golden sunset, and remarkable water activities. Recently, I received inquiries from foreign readers on how to get here, what activities can be tried, and asking for hotel recommendations.
"Batok" or traditional hand-tapped tattooing. She became prominent because she has been featured on some local TV shows, international documentaries, magazines and others. Photos below will show the beauty of Buscalan, Kalinga and their traditional "batok."
Mount Pulag is one of the highest peaks in the Philippines, measures 2,922 MASL. It is also one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines, therefore, you should include this on your list. On the other hand, on its summit, hikers can witness the famous “sea of clouds," a majestic phenomenon where visitors are literally above the clouds.
Lussok Cave is one of the prides of Apayao and the Cordillera region. This cave is composed of four chambers, with artistic limestone formations. Not only that, it offers a remarkable caving experience because of the spectacular sceneries that can only be seen in the small caverns. Also, did you know that the countless bats residing inside Lussok produce the most expensive fertilizer called "guano?" With our Lussok cave experience, I learned that motto: "kapag ang pumatak sayo malamig, that's Holy water, but if it's warm, that's holy sh_t."
Social media sites and travel blogs helped Kaparkan Falls become one of the top destinations in the North. It is situated in the Municipality of Tineg, Province of Abra, part of the Cordillera Administrative Region. Traveling from Manila to Bangued, the province's capital, is more than 8 hours. Plus, another 2 -3 hours off-road to Sitio Kaparkan - the jump-off of Kaparkan Falls. As I always say: "time is just a number," but the reward will be a breathtaking and stunning body of water - the majestic Kaparkan Falls!
Our arrival was around 11:30 AM. I was excited because, from afar, we easily recognized the long stretch of white sand shoreline with quaint cottages and tourists sunbathing. As we were getting nearer and nearer and nearer to the coastline, what we were seeing were boats parked by the beach. Children and other tourists were swimming between the boats - that scene was not so picture-perfect. Instead of mingling with the crowd, I and Tin proceeded to the area with fewer people.
Tinalisayan Island was our second destination from Alibijaban Island to Burias Islands. Traveling from Animasola Island to this island takes an hour, but this is irrevocably number one among the three islands we visited. When I jumped off the boat and landed on the shallow crystal clear water, I easily felt the relaxing feeling because the water was really cool, contrary to the heat and UV rays from the sun. Our boat was parked by the tip of the sandbar, so walking on the long stretch of a fine and powdery white sand, with the other visitors on their colorful swimming attire, was just awesome! This long sandbar always greets the visitors with breathtaking beauty.
Inasakan Beach is one of the paradises in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. Upon getting off the boat, I was stunned by the texture of the sand, and it’s definitely the top 1 or top 2 of the finest sand I’ve ever seen so far, competing with Bitaog Beach in Dinagat Islands. Maybe 200 to 300 meters long, this small stretch of fine white sand greets all visitors with its perfect panoramic view of the mountains, coconuts, quaint cottages, bamboo, and other greens that preserve the tranquility in the area. Of course, the beach cannot be complete without the calm crystal clear water. WATCH MY VIDEO
When Boracay island was closed, other comparable beaches were recognized - Maniwaya Island in Marinduque is one of those. The province is considered the heart of the Philippine archipelago and the neighbor of my hometown - Romblon. Gorgeous images of this island spread on social media which captured my interest. There are fine white sand beaches, amazing landscapes, crystal clear water, a vast diversity of underwater creatures, and many more; the photos below will explain more.
It is the newest hiking destination in Nueva Ecija. Mt. Kasahingan became popular because of its breathtaking beauty, relaxing ambiance, easy-to-moderate trails, and gorgeous waterfalls, and it is pretty much accessible from Manila and other points in Luzon. Hiking this mountain can give you a rewarding experience and Instagrammable views.
Now, I'll bring you to one of the unrated paradises in the entire Bicol region - the Apuao Island - one of the Mercedes Group of Islands small islands. This deserted island has a lot to offer, from the cool and crystal clear emerald waters, wealthy underwater, breathtaking landscape, tranquility and relaxing ambiance, and, of course, the good people. Travel time is about 7 to 8 hours from Manila to Mercedes via private van, but I was able to see and experience that remarkable beauty.
It is another top tourist attraction in Sagada. Inside Sumaguing Cave, you can find a sparkling work of art carved by nature. Although trekking is not easy because you need to hop on and off the slippery boulders, in the end, you will be rewarded with a world-class beauty with a big picture of stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Also, you will not stop using your imagination because the boulders and shadows create unique images, making its wall a natural grandeur.
The Hanging Coffins of Sagada is definitely the top tourist attractions in Mountain Province. It captured the world's attention because it is one of the unique burial sites. Also, the photo above says, "It's not easy, to send someone to the next life," so their way of sending their loved ones to the final resting place is phenomenal. Archeologists cannot identify the age of the coffins, but one thing for sure is that they are from centuries ago.