Apo Whang Od

Apo Whang Od

Apo Whang Od is an indigenous tattoo artist from Kalinga province who uses an old style of tattooing called "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."

Bakun Trio (Hiking Guides, Mountains, Things you need to know)

This event was an urgent decision. We met at Victory Liner Bus Terminal in Cubao and rode in a bus bound for Baguio. From Baguio City, we chartered a jeep to Bakun, Benguet. Travel time was within 4-5 hours. But before reaching our destination, we passed by different landmarks of the North, one of which was the Highest Point (photo above). The entire travel period was an adjustment period for our group and other participants.

Kaparkan Falls

Kaparkan Falls

Social media sites and travel blogs helped Kaparkan Falls to be 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 capital of Abra, 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 a stunning body of water - the majestic Kaparkan Falls! CLICK TO WATCH MY KAPARKAN FALLS VLOG 

Pink Beach, Sorsogon

Pink Beach, Sorsogon

We finally arrived at the Pink Beach in SorsogonDay 2: Backpacking in Albay, Sorsogon and Catanduanes. There is no direct route from Legaspi City to Matnog. So, from Daraga Shell gas station, we rode in a bus with “Bulan” signboard and alighted in Trece. The travel time was about 3-4 hours, passing by Sorsogon City and the nearby municipalities. In Trece, we chartered a tricycle, alighted in front of the municipal hall and met Christian, our boatman.

Apuao Grande Island, Camarines Norte

Apuao Island
For beach lovers, if we're talking about the beauty in Camarines Norte,  Calaguas is on top, correct? Now, I'll bring you to one of the unrated paradise in the entire Bicol region - the Apuao Island - it is one of the small island in Mercedes Group of Islands. This deserted island has a lot to offer, from the cool and crystal clear and emerald waters, wealthy underwater, breathtaking landscape, has tranquility and relaxing ambiance, and of course, the good people. Well, travel time is about 7 to 8 hours from Manila to Mercedes via private van but I was able to see and experience those.

Albay Tourist Spots

Albay Tourist Spots

The provinces of Albay, Sorsogon and Catanduanes are part of my solo-backpacking list, however, the reality started when I planned my Bicol itinerary two months ago - to complete Region 5. Legaspi City in Albay is the center of the Bicol region that showcases a lot of tourist spots and destinations; from historical sites, beaches, gorgeous landscapes, and to the remarkable activities and sumptuous delicacies. Here are the top tourist spots and destinations in Albay.

Palawan Tourist Spots

Palawan Tourist Spots

Palawan is gifted with top tourist spots, must-visit tourist attractions, amazing tourist destinations, mouth water delicacies and great people. The province is the longest and one of the biggest provinces in the Philippines in terms of land area and this land area has a combination of white beaches with calm crystal clear water, gorgeous islands (Palawan is the best island in the world), world-class dive sites, caves, mountains and many more.

Oriental Mindoro Tourist Spots

Oriental Mindoro Tourist Spots

Mindoro Island is divided into two provinces, Oriental and Occidental. Its main products are mostly agricultural but they also have beautiful and stunning tourist destinations that they can be proud of. From the historical sites to the beautiful white beaches, underwater richness, rain-forest from the mountains, and the people. I have tried solo backpacking to Mindoro several times and I can say that the people here are one of the most hospitable and friendly in the country. Here are some of the top tourist spots and destinations in Oriental Mindoro.

Quezon Province Tourist Spot

Quezon Province Tourist Spot

1. Dampalitan Island

Dampalitan is one of the top destinations in Quezon Province. This stunning island (photo above) is located in Padre Burgos, an hour travel from Lucena City. It became famous to travellers because it has an untouched beauty. The island has fine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, a gorgeous landscape, the atmosphere is cool, and has no huge concrete structures just camping by the beach. READ: DAMPALITAN ISLAND

Laguna Tourist Spots

Laguna Tourist Spots

1. Mt. Romelo

Mt. Romelo and the Buruwisan falls are one of the top tourist spots in Laguna. Hiking to Romelo's campsite, river and waterfalls is always challenging because the trail is usually covered with mud since it is being used by the locals, with their horses and carabaos to transport goods to the low-lying areas. The trail is covered with hardwood trees, coconuts and fruit-bearing trees that create a cool ambiance. The water on the river and waterfalls is crystal clear and totally refreshing. If you're looking for extreme, some organizers set up ropes for wall climbing and canyoneering. READ: MOUNT ROMELO