Nagsasa Cove

               When we decided to hit the beach again, bask in the sun and enjoy the sand - we chose to go to Nagsasa Cove this time.  This place may sound familiar for some but most of us have not been in this cove yet.  I am guessing one of the reason its because it is farther compared to Anawangin Cove or Capones Island.

                Our trip started from Victory Liner Cubao.  We're not able to get the direct trip (Cubao-Sta. Cruz/Iba) for only P270/pax (drop-off San Antonio), so we took the Cubao-Olongapo trip which cost us P212/pax and another bus ride from Olongapo City to San Antonio, Zambales fro an additional of P44/pax.

             Hence, this is a "let's-go-now-na!" trip, we have not prepared food nor overnight stuff that we must bring other than clothes and jackets.  So we dropped by San Antonio public market located at the back of the plaza and municipal building to grab some lunch and purchase all the things we needed (food, water, candle, lighter/match, sunblock, etc) for an overnight stay in the island without an electricity.  The price is not bad for the quantity of things we are able to buy but if you are particular with the quality and brands of your products, you may also buy the items from the nearby 7/11 store.

                 More or less 30 minutes travel time by tricycle to reach Brgy. Pundaquit from the main highway of San Antonio.  To help you get a "bangka" right away and get better deal - you may contact manong Mike Bactad thru thsi mobile number:.  Normally, bangka rate to Nagsasa is around P1,000 - 1,500 that can accommodate 4 persons but if the weather is not cooperating, they'll only allow 2 persons in a trip together with their 'bangkero' and an assistance for your safety.  Unlike Anawangin Cove, not much open tables and cottages are available here (nor stores). Less people too.  So, bring your own food and tent otherwise, you'll spend some of your cash in buying essentials from one or two stores available (they sell similar items double the price).  It's understandable though - the place is far.

             The cove is perfect for water activities such as snorkeling, swimming, skim boarding and even surfing.  Both kids and adults are warned to stay near the shore because the waves are too big to take a risk (even if you are a good swimmer).  You have an option though to dip into a cool and clear water from a falls. Uh-uh, there's a waterfalls in Nagsasa.  You may ask a local to guide your around for P100/pax.  It's 45 minutes to an hour trek and hike against the scorching hot of the Mr. Sunshine, no big trees to hide from him - only tall grasses and fine sand along the way.  So, slather your self with those SPF 30 sun cream and bring those fabulous sun glasses to protect your eyes and skin.  hat if you have one and water too.

           The trek and hike to the waterfalls is quiet a treat.  The lush landscape, green and brown mountain of Mt. Balingkilat and streams along the way are perfect picture for a country-side Facebook profile.  Our tired feet, wrinkled forehead and thirsty look was compensated with beautiful scenery.

                Like most beach bummers, I always look forward for sunset by the shore.  I dunno, sunset makes me sad (knowing i need to sleep and its the end of an unforgettable day) and makes me happy too (knowing I need to rest to get ready for a better next day).  Though we did not make a bonfire during our stay but anyone may.  The shore line is too long, too wide to be ignored, you can take a walk at night, night swimming and enjoy the stars and the beautiful sky. Be warned though, since there's no electricity in the area - it's already dark by 6pm.

                 Morning in the beach is always amazing no matter where you are.  Upon waking up, we did not waste time and grab our camera while running to the shore - with our pajama and night shorts on. Hahaha!  Roaming around Nagsasa is definitely fun despite the chill of the morning breeze.  I enjoyed the sight of the creek kissing the sea. yes, the creek we saw yesterday while on our way the the waterfall flows to the sea - what a sight to behold!  It made me smile.

        Amidst the sweats, sunburned and tired feet - this place is worth the trek!

For those who wants to reserve a banca for their future trips, you may call Manong Mike (my 'suking-bankero') thru this contact number: 09283405136 (Smart) and 09277801312 (Globe).

Benguet: Banaue Rice Terraces

            It all started when I first laid my eyes on the un-glossy and black and white picture of my history book.  This was in primary school.  I was amazed how the terraces was created and maintained and how beautiful it became year after year.

            Backpackers being drown to Baguio City forget to move forward to the North.  Don't take it against me, I don't have against Baguio City.  It is one of my favorite place, during summer, that is. He-he!  Seldom knows the capital of Benguet is not Baguio but La Trinidad and seldom risk to travel up North where La Trinidad and the main province of Benguet is located at, Banaue - the home of Ifugao Rice Terraces. 

              Banaue Rice Terraces is also known as the "Eighth Wonders of the World".  It was also named UNESCO World Heritage Site.  This magnificent site was built more than 2,000 years ago.

          Travelling to the northern part of Benguet may seem risky for some because of the underdeveloped infrastructure that has been shown in web pictures, TV's and magazines but without taking this risk,  I'll miss to see the awesome Ifugao terraces and experience the hospitality of Ifugaonons.

             Banaue offers an opposite picture of the busy atmosphere of the city life.  In this place, you'll definitely lost track of time.  You'll see how magnificent God is for creating such lovely view.  How wonderful Mother Nature is for producing this amazing scenery.