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Day trip to Chocolate Hills in Carmen
The Pier in Baclayon
If you are in Bohol and never been to Chocolate Hills then you should go there. We went by hired motorcycle from Tagbilaran and our first stop was the pier in Baclayon. We admired the nice view and took some photos. We also asked around about the boats going to Pamilacan Island. It's funny coz we started ask one guy about this and that and soon there was a bunch of friendly people around us, all smiling and chatted with us. In Baclayon they have one of oldest churches in Bohol, well worth a visit if you are interested.
The pier in Baclayon
Man-made forest
At Loay we left the busy Tagbilaran East Road and turned left towards Loboc. The traffic is less here and the landscape is beautiful. At Loboc you can do lot's of stuff. Everything from cruise the Loboc River to be adventurous at Loboc Eco-Tourism Adventure Park. We did nothing of that, we just took a short break for lunch since someone was hungry despite breakfast. Kinilaw, lumpia and ampalaya with rice and suddenly someone become happy again. On our way to Carmen we passed the cool and beautiful man-made forest. Cool in the sense not hot. So for me it was a blessing to cool down here for a while in the shadow.
The man-made forest
Carmen and Chocolate Hills
We went on straight for Carmen and the Chocolate Hills. We passed the Tarsier and the Butterfly sanctuary on our way. But we didn't stop there. Finally we arrived at the hills, the entrance fee is 50 PHP per head. You can go with the motorcycle almost all the way up to the observation deck. But the last bit you need to walk. Be prepared for roughly 250 steps in a steep staircase, so load up with water and be handy with your camera. There is an astonishing view waiting for you at the top.
The entrance up to the observation deck... 250 steps to go
The hills
An explanation how the hills were formed
This is heaven for all selfie photographers
Also heaven for me...
Urduja and Vinta
The typhon Urduja which had hit Philippines a bit more than a week ago and also just the other day, it was the Severe Tropical Storm Vinta which struck in the Northern Mindanao. We here in Bohol were lucky, we had just a couple of days with rain. Today, the day after the storm Vinta, it was sunny, clear and very hot weather here in Bohol. Our thoughts are with those who suffered so hard from these disasters.
The butterfly sanctuary
On our way back to Tagbilaran we passed the Butterfly sanctuary again. This time we stopped and paid a visit, the entrance fee was 45 PHP per head. It included a guide who will teach you about the butterflies and will help you with your selfies. It was nice and interesting to get to know the butterflies a little bit more. There are 10-15 species of butterflies and moths there in the sanctuary. They also have a restaurant where you can refresh your self so you can load your batteries before the next stop which would be the Tarsier Sanctuary.
When we arrived at the Tarsiers, it was too crowded with people so we just sat outside and had some fresh and delicious buko juice. Just 30 PHP each. After finishing our drinks we went straight back to Tagbilaran.
When we arrived at the Tarsiers, it was too crowded with people so we just sat outside and had some fresh and delicious buko juice. Just 30 PHP each. After finishing our drinks we went straight back to Tagbilaran.
The biggest butterfly of them all
Our conclusion
We did this tour in a relaxed pace but expect to allow a whole day for doing this depending on how many of the attractions you like to experience.
A 60 s video clip showing the Chocolate Hills
Related links:
Where to eat in Tagbilaran?
Find a house for rent in Panglao
Review of the Food Court in Island City Mall (Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines)
Bohol and Panglao Islands, Philippines
Isola de Francesco or Virgin Island, Panglao, Philippines
Review of Swiss Zurigo Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bojol Grill Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of A's Chicken Nuggets & Grill Haus (Bohol, Philippines)
The giant Arogo and the smallest primate, what do they have in common?
Review of Panglao Island Nature Resort & Spa (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Henann Resort Alona Beach (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Shang Palace Seafood Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bo's Coffee (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of The Buzzz Café (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Golden Cowrie (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Staylite Park Bed and Breakfast (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Arabelle Suites (Bohol, Philippines)
Where to eat in Tagbilaran?
Find a house for rent in Panglao
Review of the Food Court in Island City Mall (Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines)
Bohol and Panglao Islands, Philippines
Isola de Francesco or Virgin Island, Panglao, Philippines
Review of Swiss Zurigo Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bojol Grill Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of A's Chicken Nuggets & Grill Haus (Bohol, Philippines)
The giant Arogo and the smallest primate, what do they have in common?
Review of Panglao Island Nature Resort & Spa (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Henann Resort Alona Beach (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Shang Palace Seafood Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bo's Coffee (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of The Buzzz Café (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Golden Cowrie (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Staylite Park Bed and Breakfast (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Arabelle Suites (Bohol, Philippines)
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Dr. Rico Absin, the master of Christmas decorations
We are all used to Christmas decorations before Christmas, right? But at this house in Dumaguete, they take the Christmas decorations to the extreme. I have never seen anything like it, except maybe on movies. This house is just 5-10 minutes walk from the Silliman University and the entrance fee is 25 PHP / person.
The house itself is outlined by many thousands of tiny bulbs giving it a fairytale-like quality.
The balcony was crowded with selfie photographers.
A passion for art and decoration
This is the Dr. Rico Absin’s house, a former anesthesiologist in his late 50s. He has created an institution out of a genuine passion for art and decoration. This is actually his private residence and it’s well known as the Christmas House in Dumaguete and Negros Oriental. In December his house will be the brightest and merriest, illuminating the quaint old house which he has dwelled in most of his life and in which he now occupies alone after inheriting it from his parents.
The fairy tale castle was popular for those who wanted to take pictures.
Dr. Rico Absin's Christmas house.
Even in the Philippines they have reindeers.
A little bit surreal
For me it’s a little bit surreal to see all this and it raises some questions. Who is Dr. Absin? And why is he doing this year after year. Inside the big house which of course was full of Christmas decorations in every room and corner, there were also many personal things which like proved that someone actually was living there. For example there were lot’s of old photos from different episodes of his life, from his younger days until now.
There were many personal photos from his past life.
Dr. Absin’s house was filled with things that he had collected over the years.
In every corner of the house there were Christmas decorations.
Even in the ceiling there were personal things as well as decorations.
For a good cause
It has become an annual custom for this Doctor to share his blessings during the season to some 300 less fortunate children in the city which he throws a party for their benefit. He never forgets to wrap up gifts to be given away and makes sure that not one child leaves without getting any. Also a member of the City Tourism Council, Dr. Absin holds benefits and fund raisers for this particular cause.
Bring joy to the children
Asked why he had pursued this hobby, Dr. Absin quickly answers that it “gives me great satisfaction to see all the happy people’s faces when they come and I also feel good knowing that I bring joy to the children and the people of Dumaguete”.
The garden outside the house was filled with visitors.
Related links:
Tarbush, a story of love
The boulevard in Dumaguete
Review of 2Story kitchen in Dumaguete, Negros
Review of Gabby's Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Fish 153 Korean Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Mooon Café Robinsons Place (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Café Mafioso (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Atong Kamalig Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of San Rival Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Sta Teresa Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Tierra Alta Residential Resort, Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines
Tarbush, a story of love
The boulevard in Dumaguete
Review of 2Story kitchen in Dumaguete, Negros
Review of Gabby's Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Fish 153 Korean Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Mooon Café Robinsons Place (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Café Mafioso (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Atong Kamalig Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of San Rival Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Sta Teresa Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Tierra Alta Residential Resort, Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines
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Review of Tarbush, a Lebanese restaurant
The Tarbush, located 10 min walking distance from the Silliman University
You could also sit outside if you like
Love for good food
The Tarbush story is a story of love: a love between man and wife, the love between a mother and her children, love for country and love for good food. All this according to their menu and that sounds promising so far. But the question remains, is that true?
This day it was quiet here
Since 1983? But according to the menu the story unfolded 2014...
The menu
The Tarbush is not a big place, it reminded me of a smaller fast-food place. It was only one other guest so it was quiet and relaxing. They offer a variety of Shawarma and sandwich in different combinations. There are also options with hummus with meat or chicken, salads and a veggies sandwich. Unfortunately they had run out of chicken so we ordered beef shawarma.
The Tarbush menu
The menu, where you can read about the love story
Mucho Gusto and Spicy Beef
We ordered a Mucho Gusto with beef shawarma, garlic sauce, grilled tomato, potato fries, Mexican pepper, fried onions, pickles and chili sauce. Then a Spicy Beef, with beef shawarma, garlic sauce, fresh tomatoes, potato fries, white onions, parsley, pickles and chili sauce. Fries and Coke were included.
The Mucho Gusto with less spicy sauce
The Spicy Beef with more spicy sauce
Conclusion
Honestly the appearance and the taste of the two dishes was almost identical. Basically the only difference we could make out was that the Mucho Gusto had a more red sauce with less spicy taste and the Spicy Beef had less red sauce but with more spicy taste. But the food was very fresh and the taste was good. The portions were enough for us and the service was good so we both felt satisfied when we walked from there.
Rating: 1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
4 Food
5 Service
5 Value
4 Atmosphere
4 Food
5 Service
5 Value
4 Atmosphere
The Tarbush
Corner E.J. Blanco Exit, Barangay Piapi, Dumaguete City, 6200 Negros Oriental
Philippines
Phone: +63 917 987 6524
Corner E.J. Blanco Exit, Barangay Piapi, Dumaguete City, 6200 Negros Oriental
Philippines
Phone: +63 917 987 6524
Related links:
The boulevard in Dumaguete
Review of 2Story kitchen in Dumaguete, Negros
Review of Gabby's Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Fish 153 Korean Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Mooon Café Robinsons Place (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Café Mafioso (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Atong Kamalig Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of San Rival Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Sta Teresa Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Tierra Alta Residential Resort, Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines
The boulevard in Dumaguete
Review of 2Story kitchen in Dumaguete, Negros
Review of Gabby's Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Fish 153 Korean Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Mooon Café Robinsons Place (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Café Mafioso (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Atong Kamalig Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of San Rival Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Sta Teresa Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Tierra Alta Residential Resort, Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines
- Published on
Look at those majestic trees...
Rizal Boulevard in Dumaguete City
Rizal Boulevard or more commonly known as just the Boulevard is the heart of Dumaguete. It's here everything happens. I love to stroll here specially in the evenings when the air is cooler and you can feel the ocean breeze. Many they are doing their exercises here as well, jogging and walking back and forth the boulevard. Some days of the week they arrange Zumba open for everybody brave enough to participate.
The port and in the distant you can see Cebu Island.
The boulevard a popular landmark
This is from where you enter to Dumaguete, the port.
The boulevard’s stretch is immediately visible when coming into the Dumaguete port via any sea vessel. From the white lamp posts lining up the stretch to the stately trees swaying with the sea breeze, Rizal Boulevard holds a big part in the city’s provincial charm and has become a very popular landmark.
My favorite coffee shop in Dumaguete, Bo's
The night market, where the brave can try balut
Plenty of restaurants
There are plenty of restaurants here to choose among and I usually end up here at the boulevard having my dinner. Included in the price is the ocean view and sea breeze. When I go budget I like to visit the little night market towards the port where I use enjoy tempura and balut. What is tempura and balut? >>>
Nice view from the veranda of Sans Rival
The sky, the sea and two men in a boat
Bethel Guest Hose
There are always nice sunsets over the boulevard
A lazy afternoon at the boulevard. (60 s video clip)
The majestic old trees steadily growing along the boulevard. So fantastic and beautiful.
Named after the great Philippine national hero
Rizal Boulevard in Dumaguete City was named after the great Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, marking it as one of the historical sites found in the city. It has been said that he had made a brief visit and took a stroll here before departing to the neighboring island of Dapitan, Dipolog City where he was exiled for four years.
The kids are enjoying themselves
A venue for leisure and recreation.
Rizal Boulevard is definitely one of the city’s best loved places. It has become a landmark as well as a venue for leisure and recreation.
Related links:
Tarbush, a story of love
Review of 2Story kitchen in Dumaguete, Negros
Review of Gabby's Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Fish 153 Korean Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Mooon Café Robinsons Place (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Café Mafioso (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Atong Kamalig Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of San Rival Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Sta Teresa Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Tierra Alta Residential Resort, Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines
Tarbush, a story of love
Review of 2Story kitchen in Dumaguete, Negros
Review of Gabby's Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Fish 153 Korean Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Mooon Café Robinsons Place (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Café Mafioso (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Atong Kamalig Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of San Rival Bistro (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Review of Sta Teresa Restaurant (Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines)
Tierra Alta Residential Resort, Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines
- Published on
Review of Fiery Style Restaurant
The staff was eager to promote the place
A new Eat in MOA
When I was wandering around in Mall of Asia, hungry and starving searching for something to eat, I suddenly discovered they were renovating a part of the North wing where Starbucks and TGI Fridays used to be located. Instead they have opened a new area which they call the New Eats, where you can find new exciting restaurants. The one which stood out most was the Fiery Style Restaurant.
The bar
It was quiet here today
Mexican fusion dining
It's a Mexican fusion dining restaurant that serves fiery Mexican cuisine and quick bites. Ideal for Mexican food lovers and others too of course. They offer a wide selection of Mexican dishes comprised of burritos, steaks, fajitas, and everything in between. Among all of their special dishes, the visitors are raving about their BBQ Pulled Pork Quesadilla, Southwest Platter and their Bottomless Cocktails Promo.
They offer a wide selection of Mexican dishes
Many exciting dishes which I would like to try out
Bursting Burritos
Since I wanted something fiery I ordered the Bursting Burritos with grilled jalapeños and lime chicken. It was a freshly rolled floured tortilla loaded with rice, beans, peppers and sweetcorn in a Louisiana-style sauce, mixed leaves, cheese and sour cream. It may not look that much and maybe they could have added more chicken inside the burritos. Nevertheless the taste was good and the portion was enough for me so my conclusion was, that it was a good eat! By the way, nice with those colored nachos, I never seen that before.
Bursting Burritos with grilled jalapeños and lime chicken
Thumbs up!
I will definitely come back. There are many things on their menu I would like to try. The staff was very nice and service minded and the ambience also nice. A plus is that vegetarians also can find something to eat here all though the variety is limited though. Anyway keep the good work rolling and thumbs up for the Fiery Style!
Rating: 1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
4 Food
5 Service
4 Value
5 Atmosphere
4 Food
5 Service
4 Value
5 Atmosphere
The Fiery Style Restaurant
North wing, Mall of asia, Pasay city
Manila, Philippines
Phone: + 63 920 896 5555
North wing, Mall of asia, Pasay city
Manila, Philippines
Phone: + 63 920 896 5555
Related links:
UCC Good Coffee Smile in Manila
Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?
Visit Intramuros in Manila
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park
UCC Good Coffee Smile in Manila
Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?
Visit Intramuros in Manila
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park
- Published on
Calayan Island, Philippines
This girl is collecting sea urchins on the beach in Calayan Island. The image to right is behind the scenes, when I took this shot of her. Read more about Calayan Island and the review of TPS Homestay.
Luang Prabang, Laos
Night market in Luang Prabang Laos
Such a cute girl in the car
This is really nice for swim, Luang Prabang Laos
A garden of Eden in Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang and the Mekong River
River cruise at Mekong River
- Published on
Chili ice cream, bagoong and sea urchins
When you travel around in the Philippines you will have the possibility to encounter food experiences unlike what you are used to from back home. So what can you expect? It's of course depending on your own curiosity and where and how you travel. Here I share just a few examples of my own experiences. But remember, be brave and stay curious... always!
Chili Ice Cream
Hot and spicy but still cold. How is that possible? This is really a perfect combo to enjoy the spiciness of the chili together with the mild taste and coolness of the ice cream. The scoop with two chili fruits is the most spicy one.
Chili pepper
This is filipino chili which is smaller but more spicy than thai chili. You often mix the chili with the juice from the calamansi and some vinegar.
Chili peppers have been a part of the human diet in the Americas since at least 7500 BC. The substances that give chili peppers their intensity when ingested or applied topically are capsaicin and several related chemicals, collectively called capsaicinoids. The thai chili pepper or the bird's eye chili is small, but is quite hot and spicy. It measures around 100,000–225,000 Scoville units, which is at the lower half of the range for the hotter habanero chili but still many times more spicy than a jalapeño.
Bagoong or shrimp paste
It's primarily made from finely crushed shrimp or krill mixed with salt, and then fermented for several weeks. Some versions are in its wet form and other versions are sun-dried and either cut into rectangular blocks or sold in bulk. It's an essential ingredient in many curries and sauces. Shrimp paste can be found in many meals in the Philippines for example in the Bicol Express. It's also often an ingredient in dip for fish or vegetables.
Bagoong with unripe mango, red onions and bell peppers. So delicious. Can be served together with grilled fish or meat.
Fresh sea urchins
Fresh sea urchins
Sea urchins are small, spiny, globular animals that inhabit all oceans from the intertidal to 5,000 metres. The shell of sea urchins is round and spiny, typically from 3 to 10 cm (1.2 to 3.9 in) across. Sea urchins move slowly, feeding primarily on algae. The name "urchin" is an old word for hedgehog, which sea urchins resemble. They are a delicacy for your taste buds to eat fresh with a little bit of calamansi juice and vinegar. You can also eat it as sea urchin sushi or uni sushi.
Raw sea urchin, how does it taste?
Sea urchin, also known as Uni, is loved by chefs and features heavily on tasting menus around the world. The delicacy of the ocean has a strong flavour and a strange texture if you're not used to eating it. Raw uni has a fresh ocean taste, briny and slightly minerally but not salty or "fishy". The flavor is mildly nutty with a slight sweetness similar to raw scallops. The texture is smooth, wet and custard-like. While the flavor of uni isn't particularly strong or sharp, the combination of the briny ocean taste and creamy texture is definitely not for everyone.
Preparing it is simple. Just scrape out the content, add some calamansi and vinegar to taste.
Now it's ready to eat!
- Published on
Visit Intramuros in Manila
Puerta del Parian, one of the gates to Intramuros
Intramuros, the original Manila
In 1571 to the end of Spanish rule in 1898, Intramuros was Manila. It's also known as the Ciudad Murada (Walled City) because of its most famous feature: a nearly three-mile-long circuit of massive stone walls and fortifications that almost completely surrounds the entire district.
The 18-hole, par-66 Club Intramuros Golf Course
Intramuros Golf Course
Just outside the walls of Intramuros in a uniquely urban environment, on what used to be the moat surrounding the city, you can play golf at the 18-hole, par-66 Club Intramuros Golf Course. The club was established already in 1907. Caddies cost P300. Almost every hole includes either water hazards, out-of-bounds, or both. The golf course can be played in just over two hours.
On top of the old wall fortified with guns
Ancient walls vs modern houses
The wall of Intramuros
History and mystery are built into the two and three-quarter miles (around 4,4 km) of walls that surround the old capital of the Philippines. The first wall, built in 1570 was made of logs. Today the construction bears evidences of many builders and widely differing plans of defence.
Getting around Intramuros
Once inside the Intramuros you will not get lost, coz you are surrounded by the walls. A nice, old-fashioned way to get around the area is by calesa. These horse-drawn carriages can usually be found waiting for passengers near Fort Santiago. Since Intramuros is a limited and relatively small area, walking from one attraction to another is also a popular way to get around. For me walking was the perfect alternative, then I could discover all the attractions in my own pace.
Calesa, a horse-drawn carriage
The beautiful fountain in the Plaza Moriones
This girl is trying to ease up her quiet friend
Pain and sacrifices
When wandering around in this area and reading about all those important historical events which took place here you get a feeling of humbleness. There have been so much pain and sacrifices inside and around these walls of Intramuros. For example, Jose Rizal the national freedom hero of the Philippines was imprisoned here. He was later executed in Bagumbayan (now known as Rizal Park) just outside the walls of Intramuros on December 30, 1896. Or in 1945, during the fierce Battle of Manila between American, Filipino and Japanese forces, where so many soldiers paid the ultimate price and Intramuros was almost completely destroyed.
The main gate of Fort Santiago
Fort Santiago was first built by the Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi
The model in question obviously suffers from the heat this day
Fort Santiago and the Rizal Shrine
Fort Santiago, the former military headquarters of the Spanish colonial government. Although the fort sustained very heavy damage during the 1945 Battle of Manila, several key portions of the compound were subsequently restored. It's now considered a major landmark and one of Manila's most popular tourist attractions, partly because José Rizal - the national hero of the Philippines - was imprisoned here prior to his execution on 30 Dec 1896. The Rizal Shrine, a small museum dedicated to his life and work, is housed in a restored section of one of the fort's former barracks.
Rizal Shrine, José Rizal was imprisoned here
The beautiful Plaza De Armas
I get a suspicious glance from this cat
Pasig River marks the border in the north of Intramuros
In memory of those 600 hundreds who died in the dungeons the very last days of WWII
The Dungeons
During World War II, Fort Santiago was captured by the Japanese Imperial Army. They used the dungeons as prison cells for captured Filipino and American soldiers. Around 600 bodies were found inside these dungeons and they probably died of starvation and suffocation on the very last days of the Battle of Manila.
Restoration
At the end of World War II, virtually all of the structures in Intramuros were destroyed, with only the damaged Church of San Agustin still standing. Since 1979, the Intramuros Administration has been slowly restoring the walls, the sub-features of the fortification, and the city within. The remaining five original gates have been restored or rebuilt.
How to get to Intramuros
Nearest train station: LRT1-Central Terminal
Or my personal recommendation, get off at United Nations Avenue and then take a 10 minutes nice walk. You will pass the Rizal Park and among others the National Museum of Fine Arts, which both are well worth visits.
Or my personal recommendation, get off at United Nations Avenue and then take a 10 minutes nice walk. You will pass the Rizal Park and among others the National Museum of Fine Arts, which both are well worth visits.
Related links:
UCC Good Coffee Smile in Manila
Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?
Visit Intramuros in Manila
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park
UCC Good Coffee Smile in Manila
Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?
Visit Intramuros in Manila
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park
- Published on
Visit the American Cemetery in Taguig City
The Tablets of Missing, with 36,286 names of soldiers missing in action
There are 3660 headstones here
The American cemetery is beautifully located
The cemetery is beautifully located with impressive views over the lowlands to Laguna de Bay and towards the distant mountains. The area is so quiet and you can wander around and contemplate over the soldiers who lost their lives in the World War II. When you see all the headstones and the names it really calls for reflection over the madness of war.
Overview
The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in the Philippines occupies 152 acres on a prominent plateau, visible at a distance from the east, south and west. It contains the largest number of graves of the US military dead of World War II, a total of 17,191, most of whom lost their lives in operations in New Guinea and the Philippines. Among them are 570 Philippine Nationals who were serving alongside with the US Forces.
The chapel
The chapel, a white masonry building enriched with sculpture and mosaic, stands near the center of the cemetery. In front of it on a wide terrace are two large hemicycles. Twenty-five mosaic maps recall the achievements of the American armed forces in the Pacific, China, India and Burma. On rectangular Trani limestone piers within the hemicycles, are inscribed the Tablets of the Missing containing 36,286 names.
The chapel
View over the entrance head north
The remains of about 61 percent have been returned to the US at the request of the next of kin
The American cemetery is organized and minimalistic
Compared to the Manila Chinese Cemetery which was like a maze of different styles and colors this cemetery is strictly organized and minimalistic with the headstones in perfect order. They are aligned in 11 plots forming a generally circular pattern, set among masses of a wide variety of tropical trees and shrubbery.
When you are overlooking 3660 headstones it really calls for reflection over the madness of war...
Behind me, it's one of these two massive hemicycles with the Tablets of Missing
Among these 36,286 names, there were two seamen with the name Henry Lord, same family name as me. And let's not forget the 3762 Philippine Nationals whose remains were never recovered are also inscribed on the Walls of the Missing.
The maintenance of the cemetery is meticulous
In the background you see a residential complex at McKinley Pkwy towards Makati
Related links:
Visit Intramuros in Manila
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park
Visit Intramuros in Manila
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park
Manila American Cemetery
McKinley Road, Fort Bonifacio,
1634 Taguig City, Philippines
Phone: 011-632-844-0212
McKinley Road, Fort Bonifacio,
1634 Taguig City, Philippines
Phone: 011-632-844-0212
- Published on
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery!
The Millionaire's Row
The south entrance
The Manila Chinese Cemetery, popularly known as “Millionaire's Row” and ”The Beverly Hills of the dead”. The Manila Chinese Cemetery was built in the late 19:th century and was designated as the resting place for the Chinese citizens who were denied burial in Catholic cemeteries during the Spanish colonial period. A plot in the Manila Chinese Cemetery can easily cost up to 50 million PHP for a 25 year lease, after which another leasing fee must be paid or the body will have to be moved to another place.
I was overwhelmed!
When it comes to cemeteries I had never seen something like this before! In Sweden, a cemetery is basically a designated area for the dead, where you put up a headstone with some flowers or other plants to honor the dead. But here! The Manila Chinese Cemetery is like a community of spectacular mansion-like tombs that are equipped with everything from kitchens to air-conditioning and bedrooms to running water! The reason is so relatives can be near to their deceased at all times. They would often visit the dead in their homes during weekends, and offer food and light incense sticks.
Yeah that's me with an umbrella
Many of these tombs are as large as a regular house - some even bigger!
I recommend to hire a guide when visiting the cemetery.
Who needs a guide?
Normally I used to deny the services of a guide. Who needs a guide when you have a smartphone and Google? But sometimes however, I have to admit that hiring a guide can be really useful. The Manila Chinese Cemetery is roughly 5.4 hectare. So it's a big area and it's like a maze in there so in order to find the highlights you might need some help. I was lucky to meet a guide who was nice and knowledgable and told me many good anecdotes about the cemetery. He charged me 600 PHP for one-hour walking tour. As an option you can also hire a bicycle (per hour P100) to get around the area.
You might think you are visiting a residential suburb but these are actually mausoleums with tombs inside. That's not all, they are fully functional homes fitted with modern conveniences.
Not all buried here can afford grand houses. The cemetery has a poorer section with regular-sized tombs and mausoleums.
Notice the bible on top of the tomb.
A tomb in the form of a turtle shell.
Here is everything made of stainless steel.
The creator of mami and siopa
Ma Mon Luk, the creator of mami and siopao!
Ma Mon Luk, was a Chinese immigrant best known in the Philippines for his eponymous restaurant and the creator of mami (a noodle soup) and siopao (a steamed bun based on the cha siu bao). Arriving penniless in Binondo, Manila, Ma decided to peddle his own version of chicken noodle soup. He would soon open his first restaurant with the name “Ma Mon Luk Mami King”. He would promote his restaurant by giving away free samples of siopao. After Ma’s death, his children would continue the restaurant expanding to as many as six branches during the 1980s. Today two restaurants remain and are operated under the family owned Ma Mon Luk International Corporation.
The kids tombs
According to my guide the kids were always buried separately from their parents
The vegetation slowly takes over here
The squatters climbed the fences...
Before the squatters climbed the fences to get in. Until the 1960:s, many families employed grave watchmen to stay at the mausoleums around the clock. But when the guards started bringing their families to live on the grounds, the practice was banned. Although the squatters no longer spend the nights at the cemetery, the caretakers and their families find it a nice place for a picnic, and even a nap. They stretch out on the cool marble floors or even on top of the crypts.
My guide is patiently waiting for me.
Someone did not renew the lease of the tombs...
Yeah the umbrella was to protect myself from the heat...
Ruby Tower Memorial
At the end of the street you see the Ruby Tower Memorial. This memorial is dedicated to Chinese-Filipinos who were among the 260 people who perished in the collapse of the six-storey Ruby Tower building in the Manila suburb of Binondo during the deadly "Casiguran" earthquake that hit the capital city on 2 August 1968. The memorial is located just in the rear of the famous Lee See Tong Martyr's Hall.
Weird anecdotes
According to my guide, if the children died before their parents, they were not going to be buried together with the parents but separately at another place in the cemetery. But there were some cases of married men who happened to have had a mistress who was buried together with him and his wife in the same mausoleum! My guide showed me an even weirder example, where a married man and his mistress were dead and consequently they had been buried together. But the husband's wife was still alive and the wife had already got her designated resting place set up beside her husband and his mistress when the time was ready for her!
There are also ultra modern mausoleums as this one built by the Lim Family.
The Manila Chinese Cemetery
Santa Cruz, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Phone: +63 2 253 4202
Santa Cruz, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Phone: +63 2 253 4202
How to get there
Take the metro LRT to Abad Santos then walk or take a tricycle (P25) to the south entrance.
Take the metro LRT to Abad Santos then walk or take a tricycle (P25) to the south entrance.
Related links:
UCC Good Coffee Smile in Manila
Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?
Visit Intramuros in Manila
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park
UCC Good Coffee Smile in Manila
Where to eat the fiery style in Manila?
Visit Intramuros in Manila
Manila American Cemetery & Memorial
Visit the Manila Chinese Cemetery
Review of Jatujak Thai Restaurant, Manila
Review of hotel Isabelle Royale in Makati, Manila
Review of Kyochon restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Arya Persian Restaurant in Pasay
Hiking trip to Mt Pinatubo
Review of Casa Verde Boutique Hotel and Gardens, Imus, Manila
Review of Chili's Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Burgoo, American Bar and Restaurant in Mall of Asia
Review of Pinoy Pamilya Hotel in Pasay
Review of 88 Courtyard Hotel in Pasay
Video clips Manila Ocean Park