DIY Itinerary Guide to La Union – Baguio City, Philippines

Here’s our actual itinerary and expenses for this trip.

Trip Duration: 2 Days, 1 Night

Month: January 2016

Total Budget: Php3,324 ($67) each, group of 2, excludes souvenirs and incidental expenses. All amounts were estimated for some may not be accurately noted.

Day 1 (Saturday) – Part1: Tangadan Falls at San Juan, La Union

00:00 AM             Departure from Cubao via Partas Bus bound to Laoag

06:00 AM             Arrival at San Juan Town Plaza

06:30 AM             Departure from town plaza via jeep bound to San Gabriel

07:00 AM             Arrival at San Gabriel. Hire a tricycle and guide going to Tangadan Falls

07:30 AM             Start 45min-1hr trek to the falls

08:30 AM             Explore Tangadan Falls

10:00 AM             Trek back to jump-off point

12:00 NN              Lunch at Kahuna Restaurant (Sea Bay)

 

Tangadan Falls from the top

Total expenses for each person – Php1,024 ($21)

• Bus 1-way – Php425
• Jeep 2-way – Php32
• Trike – Php60
• Guide – Php200 (each, too pricey!)
• Balsa rental – Php50
• Lunch – Php257

refreshing!

Travel Tips

• Maximize time by leaving as early as 12mn from Cubao, QC. Cubao – La Union land travel time is at least 5-6 hours.
• San Juan beach is the surfing area in La Union, which the province is known for. Tangadan Falls is actually one of the side trips you can do here.
• Trekking to Tangadan Falls is an easy trek during summer. You can wear your daily slippers, but I always recommend to wear trekking sandals to protect your feet and also for better grip at slippery rocks. You can never tell what challenges awaits you. So it’s better to wear proper footwear. Our guide told us that during the wet season, the trekking will be more challenging.
• The falls have several cliff jumping spots with a variety of heights to choose from. This is actually one of the activity highlights of this place. The other will be swimming and showering under the cold waterfalls.

dive spot

• I’m not sure about this, but I don’t think that there is a fixed rate for tricycle and guide fees. I had this opinion because we chatted with the driver of the jeepney bound to San Gabriel, while we were heading to the town. He said that some tricycles drivers and guides charge too much for their services. Anyway, always try to haggle as much as you can. But keep in mind that tourism is one of the way locals can earn a living.

Day 1 (Saturday) – Part2: Bahay na Bato at Luna, La Union

01:00 PM Departure from Sea Bay to Balaoan via bus bound to Vigan, Candog or Laoag

02:00 PM ETA Balaoan, Luna. Hire a trike going to Bahay na Bato

02:30 PM Arrival at Bahay na Bato

04:00 PM Back at Balaoan crossing. Wait for bus bound to Baguio.

04:30 PM ETD to Baguio

08:00 PM Baguio City, Check-in at Mount Crest Hotel

Total expenses for each person – Php1,500 ($30)

• Bus 1-way – Php30
• Trike – Php100
• Entrance – Php20
• Bus 1-way – Php130
• Hotel – Php1,122
• Dinner – Php100

inside the house

Travel Tips

• Bahay na Bato is a collection of anything made of stones found on the beach. Yes the beach has stones, instead of sands. There’s nothing to do here, but taking of photos and appreciation of the scenery. For Php20 entrance fee, it’s worth it. But travelling from San Juan to Luna may be a much of effort just to see this. If you have more time, then you can also visit Occlaong Falls.
• Getting to Baguio City may take longer than expected. Be ready to sit on a bus for more than 3 hours because of several stops and slow driving.
• It is always better to have a reservation to a hotel or inn when arriving to Baguio late at night. It can be cold outside while looking for a room to stay at.

beach front

Day 2 (Sunday) – Baguio City

07:45 AM Buy ticket at Victory liner bound to Cubao

08:00 AM ETD to Ben Cab Museum via taxi

08:45 AM ETA Ben Cab Museum

10:00 AM ETD to hotel

11:30 AM Check out, lunch

02:30 PM ETD to Cubao

10:00 PM ETA Cubao

that poster photo

Total expenses for each person – Php800 ($16)

• Bus 1-way – Php455
• Taxi – Php60
• Entrance – Php100
• Jeep – Php30
• Lunch – Php150

Travel Tips

• January is actually a good time to visit Baguio City. But make sure to arrange your hotel beforehand. It’s peak season. If it’s your first time to visit the place, there are plenty of interesting sites to check out here. I’d been here a couple of times but never been to Ben Cab Museum so I took this chance to visit it.
• Taxi cars are the easiest and most convenient way to explore the city. And what’s amazing is that taxi drivers here charge as metered. When you’re living in Manila, you what this means. Anyway, there are alternatives like a jeepney ride going to Ben Cab Museum. Look for the one bound to Barangay Asin, from the town proper.

• Ben Cab Museum is quite pricey for me. I can’t help but compare to other museums I’d been to. I think the exhibits are few. I also read that there’s something like an eco-tour. But you will have to pay additional fee for this.
• It is always better to reserve a seat in a bus going back to Manila. Victory Liner is the most popular and maybe the most reliable bus company to take you back to Manila. But in case you didn’t get your preferred departure time, there are several other bus companies that goes back to Manila. Just ask around, you will surely find it!

 

Water Tubing in Siitan River

This was our text exchange, a few days before Quirino trip.

Friend:  We need to pay additional Php100 for water tubing.

Me: What is that?

Friend: It’s similar to white water rafting, except that we will ride tube instead.

Me: Okay.Do you want to do it?

Friend: Yes! 🙂

Me: Okay, if you’re up for it, I’m on it! (I replied without hesitation)

Water tubing is an exciting activity wherein you ride on top of a tube on flowing water.

I didn’t try to Google it. I didn’t even thought about it that night.  I set  my mind not to expect anything from this trip because it had been weird communicating with the Travel agency.They were not organized and were not consistent in giving instructions, but then we have to trust them.

Until that morning in the junction, when the people at the registration recommended doing the water tubing first instead of river cruising by boat, I had that big swallow inside my mouth (oh, okay). I pretended to be calm and excited as we walk our way down the riverbank. Water activities often give me that thump-thumping fast heartbeat because I can’t swim. Yet I repeatedly expose myself to this kind of thrill (how crazy is that?).

Everyone was excited! They picked up their gears (helmet and life vest) and the tube to take photos of themselves, and most likely update their status on Facebook and show how cool their day was at Nagtipunan, Quirino. I picked up mine, after most of them were done. I let them do everything first while silently studying what’s about to happen next.

Vest and tube selection [photo from Ronald‘s album]

One of the boatmen oriented us on how to do the water tubing activity. He only gave two instructions – First is to ride the tube in an inclined sitting position and then raise both feet as you reach the rapids to avoid hurting yourself from the rocks. It sounded simple, but I didn’t really realized that until I hopped on the tube. Surprisingly, I felt relaxed and my mind suddenly drifted away from all anxieties.

On my way to the rapids! [Photo from Cheryl’s camera]

I tried to paddle towards the rest of the group using my hands, but I’m not moving an inch so I asked one of the boatmen to tie up my tube to his and he led me to the rapids. I was behind the group at first, but my guide was fast, moving our tubes as if we were racing with the others. So I became ahead of everyone else and I missed being captured in photos. My guide must be on a high.

Moments later, I reached the exciting part of the river – rapids here I come! My guide reminded me to put my feet up as we pass through the rapids. I felt high and calm at the same time. I was surprised that I wasn’t too scared at all. It was like the water held me naked from my worries, while it softly moved me in a flash!

Siitan River is actually calm at the time I visited and experienced water tubing. The rapids were lightly intensive. Thrill-seekers may be left hanging on anticipation of an extreme adventure. But for me, this is already a stride of bravery.

The water tubing experience is a risk worth taking; a treasure awaits at the end of the rapids! You will never know what you’ll get until you give it a try. The result may be a disaster or a reward you’ve been waiting for. Either way, our ultimate goal is not to pass up on chances and regret!

So why wait? Get Out Dear and get a splash of excitement through water tubing!

A Journey to the Unknown: Quirino Province

Quirino – the sound of its name does not make any impression. Have you heard of it? Do you know someone who came from this place? Where is it in the Philippine map? What to see in Quirino?

These questions that can’t be answered in an instant ignited my curiosity and made me want to visit the place. I wanted to find out for myself.

The Bull Runner Dream Marathon: A Marathoner was Born

I had a dream 3 years ago – a dream to run 42 freaking kilometers and be called a “marathoner.”

Since I was getting addicted with running at that time, I was always checking Takbo.Ph and Pinoyfitness for running events – then I came across an event called The Bull Runner Dream Marathon (TBRDM). This is the first and only marathon in the world that caters to first- or second-time marathoners. TBRDM was founded by Jaymie Pizarro (The Bull Runner) and Coach Jim Lafferty. The vision for the Dream Marathon is “to create a venue for first-time marathoners to train for their first marathon and run it in the most idyllic, positive, and supportive environment.  The event is essentially a 22-week journey beginning on the first day of registration until the runner crosses the finish line on race day.”

Wow, that sounds awesome and perfect for me! So in September 2012, I signed up for the February 2013 race (4th batch). The registration wasn’t easy and the slots were filled-up in an instant.

Looking back, joining TBRDM was one of the best crazy decisions I’ve ever made. It was life-changing; no exaggerations. On the day I received the confirmation that I got in, I became more disciplined in the things that I do and in the foods that I eat. My routine had changed and my daily activities revolved around my training schedule. I became more efficient at work because I need to finish all my tasks at 5 pm so I can go to the gym or the track. I don’t go out on Saturday nights anymore because on Sunday mornings, my fellow dreamers and I are going to have our long slow distance run, the cornerstone of any long distance runner’s training program. I’ve became friends with my training buddies along the way. It was also during training for TBRDM that I met one of my favorite friends, travel buddy, future business partner, and fellow author of this blog. I have proven that runners are a great group of people – they are admirable, passionate, determined, and disciplined.

With fellow TBRDM dreamers

The coaches told us to “Just enjoy the run,” so we did.

February 24, 2013, race day, I stood at the starting line anxious and excited. All I wanted was to cross the finish line within cut-off time. I heard the gun start, and my journey began. My training buddies and I were running all together and doing jump shots in the early part of the course, until one by one, we got tired. Others ran ahead while a few were left behind.

I can vividly remember, at 35 km, I experienced a severe knee pain. I couldn’t bend my right knee, so I had to walk more frequently. I was alone in the road. It was during those times that I began to question my motivation for finishing the race. “Why the heck am I here? For whom? What will I get out of this?” Whatever. While others were sound asleep in the comforts of their bed, there I was voluntarily subjecting myself to exhaustion. I wanted to cry, but I didn’t. Quitting was never an option for me. I can walk all the way if needed, but I mustn’t stop.

For 7 more kilometers, I pushed through the pain. I used all possible motivation I can think of. I had to gather all strength I have left to make another step. When I reached the 38-km mark, the pain got worse! What kept me going were the cheers and high fives from my fellow dreamers and my personal goal of becoming a marathoner.

When I saw the finish line, I was overwhelmed – more like in shock. I thought I was going to burst into tears, but I didn’t. I was smiling when I crossed the line. I wasn’t thinking anymore. I shifted to autopilot. I even forgot to get my medal! I couldn’t recognize a single face in the crowd for about a minute. I felt a kind of “high” I’ve never experienced before. The voice in my head just kept repeating, “You did it. You did it.” Finally, I can stop. It’s over. I just can’t believe that I finished 42 km in 5 hours and 46 minutes. I am officially a marathoner.

Finally, the finish line!

We are marathoners

They say the moment you decide to run a marathon, your life will change. True. But it’s also true that the finish line is an end and a beginning in itself. My life did turn into another direction after the marathon. I became more confident in facing challenges and in my ability to endure pain. I transformed into the best version of myself. This experience is a simple proof that YOU can change. Just believe that YOU can make things happen. If you want to finish a marathon, imagine yourself crossing the finish line every single day. That’s what I did. But you can’t just wish and wait for things to happen; you have to work hard for it, too.

Get dressed. Tie your shoe laces. Show up. You don’t have to run fast and you don’t need to run a full marathon now.

You just have to get out, dear! ^_^

*If you have a dream to become a marathoner or would want to read more about The Bull Runner Dream Marathon, visit their site at http://tbrdream.com/.

The Mini Solo Trip to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

I, n.

Me without anyone else.

– The Lover’s Dictionary, David Levithan

I often read about people who have been broken-hearted and took a solo trip. They were thinking and hoping that traveling solo will mend their broken heart. I have crossed this familiar street several times, but I have never thought about going for an adventure on my own. It was when I met thrill seekers a few years back that this idea came to me. I once included a solo climb on my bucket list. It did not turn out well; I lacked courage and time to research (just procrastinating). The dream of going on a solo trip has been haunting me for quite some time now. But why go for a solo trip? I have my logical and non-logical reasons. For the moment, I’d also like to know if going solo is for me.

So I decided to test the waters by going alone in Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan. I’m not quite sure though if this can be considered as a solo trip. I prepared the itinerary with the help of a friend and searched for other information on Google. I originally planned for an overnight stay, but my sanity told me that the room is too expensive for one person, so I opted for a day tour instead.

On the day of the trip, I went to Five Star Bus Station in Cubao, and rode Bataan Transit bus bound to Balanga. I felt excited that I could have the window seat for myself and that nobody sat beside me. I enjoyed watching the scenic view of the green grass while munching cashew nuts and listening to Jason Wade. The travel took almost 3 hours to reach the jeep terminal in Balanga.

In Balanga terminal, I rode the jeep bound to Bagac. While traveling, my friend advised me via text to ask the driver to show me where the tricycle terminal is. The advice was too late; I was already sitting far from the driver because I thought that I knew the directions already. So I asked the old woman beside me where I should get off. Luckily, a couple sitting in front of me was also headed to Las Casas. “Sumabay ka na lang sa’min”, the man said. I was relieved and was able to close my eyes for the first time in this ride. I was then able to fully appreciate the smell of the grass, trees, leaves, and the earth that were surrounding the road to Bagac. I have felt and breathed the cold fresh air (amuy probinsya), and it calmed my spirit. I joyfully watched the markers of Bataan Death March and a few bikers on the side of the road (a runner must appreciate).

Finally, at Bagac, I rode the tricycle together with the couple, who I found out to be working there. The woman asked me why I visited the place by myself and I gave her a lame answer to satisfy her curiosity (oops! sorry). They had been nice to me and I am thankful. They even paid for the tricycle fare (yey!).

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is a resort where heritage houses from different places in the country are kept and preserved. Some of the old houses are still original. They used the same materials and reconstructed the inside of the resort using the original design. Some are only replicas. The original was either destroyed during the war or has not been approved to be transferred there (Alberto House). These houses are rented like modern hotels today. That is basically the attraction the resort offers.

I registered for a day tour only, which includes a heritage tour and workshop tour. There are several packages offered. It may include food and other amenities. The staff members were warm and accommodating. They gave an accurate information about the place and they can attend well to my needs.

Upon entering, I started to look around while waiting for the next heritage tour. The beautiful architectural designs made me took a lot of pictures. That’s also why the place must be a favorite spot for prenuptial photos. It has a romantic appeal brought about by its heritage themed background.

Replica of Paseo De Escolta

Replica Hotel de Oriente. The original was destroyed during the war. It was the first building in Manila to have electricity.

A warning though, food and other amenities inside are pricey. I ate lunch at an Italian food serving restaurant in Alberto House. They are the only restaurant to serve a smaller size meal (good for 1 person). I ordered fettuccine pasta with homemade tomato sauce, served with a complimentary bread. Though expensive, it’s a five-star rating in taste and quality for me.

The Royal Lunch

I joined the tour after lunch. Our tour guide was Dexter Manansala. He was well-prepared and obviously a fan of heritage houses and vintage collections. He’s lucky that our group was small and the guests were not asking too many questions. The guests were allowed to enter few houses while the guide  narrated its history. I got engaged in the beginning of the tour, but eventually got bored and sleepy in the middle until the end. I guess I’m not that much of a fan of heritage things, though I have respect for some old traditions.

The Heritage Tour with Casa Binondo as background

The heaviest Milk Canister

Flat Iron, believe it or not

Function room – Casa Quiapo

Hogwarts

I left the group immediately after the storytelling. I did not join the workshop tour anymore because it was already late in the afternoon and I was hoping to visit Mt Samat Shrine, but I still failed to visit the shrine because the receptionist at Las Casas was doubtful that I could make it on time at the junction, which is still 1 hour away.

Solo Trip for Me

I had two major failures in this trip – late and unfinished itinerary. But generally, I enjoyed it. I loved the feeling of freedom being on my own. I’ve made all the decisions on how I wanted the trip to turn out. I had to admit though that I was scared on several occasions during this trip, yet it taught me to think and decide quickly, and that I had to trust that decision no matter what so I could keep moving. My stood by mantra –  “Just stay calm in order to think straight and just enjoy the view outside the bus window.”

Have you had that wanderlust too? If yes, then go for it!

Get out, dear!

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A Quick Guide to Las Casas

0700     ETD Five Star Bus Station, Cubao, QC (fare php200)

1000     ETA Balanga Transport Terminal. Take jeepney bound to Bagac (fare php47).

1130     ETA Las Casas. Register (entrance fee Php685).

1230     Lunch (Php295)

0130     Heritage Tour

0300    Go back to Manila (same route)

0800    ETA Manila

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Polen currently works as a professional accountant for a top wellness company in the country. She is known by her colleagues to be a quiet girl. At these moments, she must be thinking either about her next destination or a subject to write on her blog.