Miraculous Shrine of Cebu, Simala

Cebu is a large island surrounded with different unique and beautiful tourist destination and natural attraction. In Philippines, it is known as the second biggest city. The place is became popular for its productive and fast growing city and known for its tourism history. You can find several tourist destination, historical places and the popular Miraculous Shrine known as "Simala". According to locals, this place is holy and sacred where prayers are granted and several miracles are happened.

People are gathered in this place to worship God, offer prayers and giving thanks for what blessing they had and giving thanks for the prayer granted. Simala is situated on top of the hilly portion of Sibonga, Cebu. People from different places spend time together to offer prayers, join the mass and kiss the image of virgin Mary.

Right side of the shrine, a two storey wall building of Simala

This place is made of large and big sizes buildings inspired from real castle shrine. It seems that you are in different country when you get there, the beautiful scenery and picturesque will really amaze you. This place really exist, nothing in Philippines to have something like this except in Cebu. This place is operated by the Monks, they are called as "Mga Monghe ni Maria (Monks of Mary).

Most of the time, people tend to visit the place to experience the presence of God and to have their prayers will be granted. However, the attraction seems to be the other options why people want to visit this place. Indeed, the facts cant tell this place is very unusual and it is amazing. From structure looks, the inner features where you can find different statue of Mary situated in one corner, different types of figures that came from different places.

You can find tons of letters from someone with their prayers being granted, letter from someone who just got cured from their illness, those who passed the board exams those who became successful in their career.

Front view of Shrine. The latest development

Truly Simala is the dwelling place for everyone who believe in Miracle. For those who are not, this place is the best place for them to learn the strong belief of christian people.

This place is situated kilometers away from the Highway and you need to take a ride Habal2x or motorcycle to get there. Few things to remember when you visit that place, you have nothing to pay except for buying a candles and other souvenirs.

Tips Travel:

- When you get there, habal2x fare ranges to 50 to 100 pesos only.
- The place is located to remote areas, you can bring your own foods or you can buy there.
- When you have your own vehicle, there is a parking lot before the entrance. You can pay 20 pesos to 30 pesos for the whole stay

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3 things to Enjoy at Tinagong Dagat Sipalay City

It’s been a while when Tinagong Dagat making its name in field of tourism, people who visited the place sharing their best experiences and moments in Tinagong Dagat. Tourist magazine and travel news website and channels featuring this place as one of a kind and amazing place to spend time while enjoying the summer vacation.

People flocking in this place just to experience how does this place looks like, how cool spending time during this days and enjoying the views of different sizes of islets riding in motorboat and taste their best foods.

I was there, together with my girlfriend and her family. We just had the best experiences with Tinagong Dagat and we enjoy the rest of the day for a limited time. Before we started our Journey, the plan was made successful by simply sharing thoughts and ideas and agreed to travel going there from a busy city of Dumaguete. It’s a little bit far from the place we lived; however the travel was smooth and enjoyable. Thanks to Manong Driver who take us there and waited for us to end the day and go back home.

Our experiences is indeed one of a kind, amazing and unforgettable moment. I was there with my girlfriend  for the first time to visit that place. Tinagong dagat was once in our travel list and finally we made it.

There are 3 things I can consider as the most enjoyable moment while we are in Tinagong Dagat.

1.       The views are amazing – When you get there, the first things you can see are the islets, the  bridge from a far that connects from one islet to another, It has many islets surrounded the place where the entrance is located. You can see the peaceful sea water and the people who loved doing their selfies and groupies pictures while others are enjoying their eating meals. The views are unusual and amazing, from the entrance you can enjoy the views, to the bridges that connects you to another islets. They have more than hundreds step in one islets that will reveal the beauty that surround this place. An over viewing scenery of Tingagong dagat is indeed amazing! Its just a wow!

2.       Island Hopping – Its one of the high light when you get there, island hopping is not just simply riding a motorboat and going around, it is how you will visualize the beauty of the entire place. Not just the place where the Tinagong Dagay is located but you can explore other places as well just near the place. We took our ride at motor boat, it was managed by The older guy with his little boy. They both certified driver of that motor boat, we request to stop over where we can do swimming and enjoying the sea side area of one islet out there. While riding the motor boat, we mesmerized with beautiful and stunning beauty of the place, we saw the Perth from a far, it’s a small resort that also known for its beautiful features and other resorts nearby.

3.       Swimming with the crystal clear water – Tinagong Dagay has its own build in swimming pool, salt and fresh water, you can choose one. However, its not the point where you can enjoy your swimming. When you having your island hopping you can find spot where you can stay and do your swimming activities, enjoy the clear water, colorful corals and swimming with the little fished around. Its indeed a true stress reliever.

How to get there?

The place is known by locals, when you get to Sipalay City people can easily can tell where it is located. From Bacolod City, you can Ride a Bus ( Ceres) Via Bayawan. It takes 4 hours to arrive at Sipalay. When you get there, you can ride a Motorycle to take you to Tinagong Dagat, it just few kilometers away from the Terminal.

From Dumaguete – You can ride Ceres Bus from terminal via Bayawan or Hinobaan. You can asks from the dispatcher if there’s any schedule of buses that will directly to Sipalay. If not, just choose either Bawayan, or Hinobaan. When you get to one of that place there will be another bus going to Bacolod. You have to ride and asks the conductor to drop you in Sipalay City Terminal. When you get to Sipalay, you can find Motorycle to 

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3 Reasons why you have to visit Underground River Palawan Philippines

If you are a traveler who loves to explore the world you should know what are the places that belongs to 7 wonders of the world. This destination are incredibly amazing, most visited and one of the top list tourist destination in the world. One of the the 7 wonders of the world that can be found in Philippines is "Under Ground River Palawan". It made the name Palawan in the forefront of tourism. The unique natural made structure, where the subterranean river that runs flows under solid caves that produces stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Source: Tripadvisor

If your wish to spend the rest of your vacation, never missed this place. People considered "Underground River" as the number one in their Bucket list, except to those who are been there already. Because of its popularity, you have to set aside budget for this one. Indeed, it helps the tourism grow and provide security and safety access to the destination.

Source: Tripadvisor

Why you have to visit Underground River Palawan?

Below are the top 5 reasons to consider why you need to visit this place and spent your summer vacation with your family and love one.

1. Its popular and one of the 7 wonders of the world - Magazine, Radio ads, Tv channels that is related to travel featuring this place. It is one of the 7 wonders of the world that the Filipino can be proud of. Because it is belong to 7 wonders of the world, visiting this place is another history of your life. Its a challenging adventure and experiencing the thrill while exploring the river under the caves.

2. It not just the Under Ground River - Palawan is a tropical place that most of the tourist from outside the country spend their time experiencing the best climate and best destination to relax. Its not just the Under Ground River that lure people to come, Palawan is place where you can find amazing and stunning beauty of nature, white beaches, beautiful structure of nature and a lot more to do for your summer vacation.

3. Longest Navigable underground river in the world - Its undeniably this place is amazing, it is created by God to for everyone. The only river in the world under the ground that you can explore riding in a boat. Not just an hour but its more than that, you can see the beauty lies within that cave. The underground river is coolest things in earth that you would experience.

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Tablas Island, Romblon Escapade - Sapatos Rock Formation

“Sapatos” Rock Formation is one of the famous tourist spot in Tablas Island, Romblon. The name “Sapatos” is derived from the physical shape of the rock that looks like a shoe. The rock formation can be seen from afar regardless if it is low tide or high tide. The difference is that, during high tides you can only see it but not totally experience it. While if it is low tide, you can climb on the rocks and see the vast ocean from the top, take pictures of the sunrise and see some little creatures living on the rock itself.

During high tides, you can rent a boat from the shore of Brgy. Tanagan and tell the boatman to bring you at Sapatos Rock Formation. You can go underneath the rock shoe while you’re on the boat. And I guess, that’s the only thing you can do during the high tide season.

source: panoramio

During low tides, you can just rent a motorcycle and tell the driver to drop you at the old Light House near the “Sapatos” Rock Formation. It may take you around 10 – 15 minutes ride from the main road. You will know if you’re almost there if you see the Light House. It is not functioning anymore but there’s still beauty in it. You can climb on top of it but be careful because the steps are already conical. From top of the Light House, you can see ocean and of course the beautiful “Sapatos” Rock Formation. Once done with the climb, you can ask the locals to guide you down the shore.

You can see a lot of rock formations and trees that grows on the shore as you walk. It may take you around 5 – 10 minutes of walk before you can reach the “Sapatos” Rock Formation. When you get there, you can climb from the heel to the top of the shoe. Be careful when climbing as the rocks might have some pointy edges. Make sure you were your shoes when climbing. You can have some picnic on top of the rock while watching the sun go down. Flying birds can also be part of your scenery.

Experience these treats by riding a jeepney bound to San Andres from the port of Odiongan and tell the driver to drop you at Bry. Tanagan. The place is small so there is no chance you’ll get lost.

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Bulata Pier: The Abandoned Port Facing Danjugan Island

History does not always survive in museums. Sometimes, it remains beside the sea—in rusted structures, weathered concrete, and a shoreline that once carried the sound of industry.

In Barangay Bulata, Cauayan, Negros Occidental, an old port stands as a reminder of a different era. Known locally as Bulata Pier or the Abandoned Port, the site was once part of the operations of the now-defunct Maricalum Mining Corporation. It served as a shipping point for copper exports and as an entry point for fuel needed by the mining operation. Copper was transported overseas, including to Japan and China.

At its busiest, this area was closely connected to the life of the mining community. Workers and families depended on the company, while vessels and cargo gave the coast a purpose beyond fishing and tourism. The old port was not simply a structure by the water—it was part of the economic heartbeat of the surrounding area.

But mining activity eventually declined. Maricalum Mining stopped its mining and milling operations in 2001 amid continuing losses, and its properties later changed hands through foreclosure proceedings.

With the industry gone, the port slowly fell silent.

Years of saltwater, wind, rain, and strong waves changed the place. Rust began to cover the remaining structures. Concrete surfaces became rough and worn. What was once a working industrial port gradually became a quiet coastal landmark, shaped by nature and time.

Today, Bulata Pier has found a different identity. It is a free public spot where local residents and visitors come to swim, take photos, hold family picnics, celebrate birthdays, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. The water is often clear, the coastline is framed by large rocks, and the view opens toward the famous Danjugan Island Marine Reserve—a protected island sanctuary located around three kilometers off the Bulata coast.

Bulata Pier is not a luxury resort, and that is part of its appeal. It is raw, open, and full of character. The contrast between its industrial past and its natural surroundings makes it one of the more unusual places to visit in Cauayan.

How to Get to Bulata Pier or Old Port

From Bacolod City

Go to the Ceres South Terminal and take a southbound bus heading to Hinoba-an or Sipalay via Cauayan. Tell the conductor you will get off at Remulyos, Barangay Bulata, Cauayan. The trip usually takes about four to five hours, depending on the bus route and stops.

From Remulyos, hire a tricycle or habal-habal motorcycle and tell the driver you are going to Bulata Pier or the old port. Local drivers commonly know the location. The pier is a few kilometers from the national highway.

From Dumaguete City

From the Dumaguete Ceres Bus Terminal, take a bus bound for Hinoba-an or Sipalay via Bayawan. Ask to be dropped at Remulyos, Bulata, then take a local tricycle or habal-habal to Bulata Pier. Travel time may take around four hours or more, depending on connections and road conditions.

For an affordable stay near Bulata Pier, Danjugan Island, and other Elihan attractions, visitors may consider Yena’s Inn, Elihan, Cauayan. For inquiries, contact 0945 479 4633.

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Romblon Island Escapade - Mabalaran Falls

Have you ever tried to go on an island tour, wherein you go to a certain island and visit the remote places? Places that are beautiful but still only the locals know. Here comes Romblon Island. Located in the heart of the Philippines, Romblon Island has a lot of beautiful places that must be seen and experienced by tourist. Let’s start with Mablaran Falls.

Mablaran falls is located at Linawan, San Andres, Romblon. Being away from the main road, tourists have to ride a motorcycle or any road vehicle you prefer to bathe in this cold fresh flowing falls. Depending on the weather, you might cross some small rivers as you travel to this place. Houses of locals can also be see along the road so there’s no fear you might get lost in this Indiana Jones like adventure. As you reach the place, you have to 15 php entrance fee per person. Cottages and wash rooms can also be seen in the area to provide comfort for the tourist.

 

Source: Visit Romblon

Mablaran falls has three sections of mini pools you can choose from. One little pool on top of the falls, the other one beneath the falls and the last near the entrance gate. To reach the first little pool, you need to hike for around 10 to 15 minutes from the main area of Mabalaran falls. Be careful when hiking since the soil can get slippery during rainy days or when you yourself is when during the climb. There you can also find a “little falls” you can shower on for head and back massage. Beneath this is the second pool with a back ground of fast and vast flowing cold white water from the top. You can jump from the top to this second pool using a natural rope they usually call “baging” – root of a huge tree. The third pool is designed for kids who would want to swim and experience the natural swimming pool. This area is less deeper compared to the other mini pools.

To get here from the harbor of Odiongan port, look for jeepney’s going to San Andres, San Agustin or Calatrava and tell the driver to drop you at Barangay Linawan where the Mabalaran Falls can be found (every locals know this famous place). The fare usually cost you 25 php per person. Landmark of the drop-off point is a bridge with a road signage “This way to Mabalaran Falls”. As mentioned above, you need to ride a vehicle going to the area since is far from the main road. You can ask the locals near the drop-off point. They can help you get there. Renting of motorcycles are one of the options. Don’t forget to bring some extra dry clothes and lot of food. Enjoy your Indiana Jones adventure and experience of the cold river water!

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Laguna Twin Lakes- Lake Pandin and Yambo

Being one of the seven famous lakes in San Pablo, Laguna, Lake Pandin and Yambo is famous for its history story. It was told that these two lake were named after two lovers. According to the legend that locals tell, a beautiful woman named Pandin was cursed not to step on the earth, otherwise, something terrible would befall her. Yambo, on the other hand is her ardent lover. He did not know about the curse and made her step on the earth. Telling Pandin that if she really loves Yambo she will do what he wants. After stepping on the earth, a terrible noise is heard followed by cracking grumble of the earth and a heavy downpour eventually turn the area into twin lakes separated from each other by a bare strip of land.

http://xplorerboyz.blogspot.com

Lake Pandin being the most pristine among the seven lakes found in Laguna offers tourist a memorable experience of having lunch in its floating restaurant and swimming on its cold deep green water. Once arrived in the area, you can feel the fresh cool air from the lake and see a beautiful scenery of mountains, small houses and colorful bamboo raft design by the locals.

Lake Yambo on the other hand can only be seen by tourist and totally experience it. From Lake Pandin, our tour guide led us on a trek to the mountain that separates it from Lake Yambo. From the top you can witness it clean waters which is used by locals for their seafood livelihood.

To get here, ride a bus bound to Lucena and tell the driver or conductor to drop you at SM San Pablo then ride a jeepney to San Pablo proper. Walk from the final stop inside the public market to 7/11 located near the church and ride a jeepney going to Ilog. Drop by at Bry. Sto. Angel, just in front of the entrance to Pandin Lake. You would easily notice this because it bears a sign PANDIN LAKE in bold huge letters. You can choose to have a local guide or not. The guides are usually kids, so if you want to help them save some for their “baon” in school you can let them assist you. Enjoy your history and swimming experience in this beautiful place near the metro!

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Romblon Escapade - Paksi Cove Calatrava

This is what the locals call mini Palawan of the Tablas, Romblon. Located at Calatrava, Romblon, Paksi Cove has features like that of Coron, Palawan. Tourist go here for swimming, camping, snorkeling, kayaking, island hoping and some even stay here for long as the island offers also hotel accommodation. This place has three coves that offers different experience to tourists.

The first cove is the drop off point and the main entrance of the island. This is where the boats are being parked by. You can also swim on his part but this is little compare to the other two coves. Entrance fee costs 20 php per head for adults and half of it for children.  Bringing of food and drinks are allowed just make sure to keep your garbage with you as you leave.

http://bagwisoutdoors.weebly.com

The second cove is where most of the swimming happens since it is near to the cottages and accessible to food stalls. It is located on the right side of the entrance to the island facing a big rock. You can find some big rocks on the shallow part of the sea. This is safe for kids as it don’t have sharp edges. Some locals climb the big rock in front of this cove and then jumps off the water. If you like to do this, make sure that you have talked to locals so they can assist you when climbing and guide you which part of the rock to climb and jump. Water in this area is quite warm on the shallow part and getting colder as the water grow deeper.

The third cove is located at the left side of the entrance. To get here, you have to trek on the rocky slopes around 10-15 minutes from the entrance. Make sure to wear your shoes or slippers as the rocks have some pointy edges. From the top, you can see the little islands form in front of the cove. It looks like Coron, Palawan. This place is perfect for those who wants tranquility and silence. Fine sand and green cold water can be found here. You can assemble your tent or swing here so you can relax. Snorkeling is also perfect on this area as the water is clearer than the other coves and you can see little fish on the shallow part of the sea. You can also do kayaking here!

To get here from the port of Odiongan, ride a jeepney bound to Calatrava and tell the driver to drop you at the port of Calatrava. From there you can ride or rent a boat going to Paksi Cove. Usually one boat cost you 300 php which could accommodate up to 25 passengers. The boatmen will direct you to Paksi Cove. Make sure to let the boatmen know that you will avail a roundtrip ride of the boat. You can also talk to them if you want to go some island hopping. This place is open 24 hours. Enjoy your experience in this mini Coron like island!

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