TRAVEL GUIDE : Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte

Important things you need to know about Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte: Where to Stay, Where to Eat, Things to Do and How to Get There.

Dapitan, the Shrine City of the Philippines is one of the most visited historical places in the Philippines. It is where Dr. Jose Rizal, the country's national hero spent four years of his life in exile. The city is home to the Rizal Shrine which is considered as a major historical landmark in the Philippines. 

Where to Stay in Dapitan

There are a number of places to stay while in Dapitan City. Depending on your budget, Dapitan City can offer you a comfortable accommodation while vacationing in the Shrine City.

Travelbee Heritage Inn

Travelbee Heritage Inn offers affordable and comfortable accommodations in the Shrine City of the Philippines. It is situated in a quiet neighborhood at Maria Clara St. corner Retiro St., Dapitan City. It once served as an ancestral house of the Sagario clan. Room rates start at P600 for two persons with breakfast.

Dakak Beach Resort

If money is not a constraint then Dakak Beach Resort is an ideal place for you to stay. It is situated about 20-30 minutes from the city proper. Room rate at Dakak Beach Resort starts at around P7,000 for a Deluxe room good for two persons with complimentary buffet breakfast.

Where to Eat in Dapitan?

The best places to eat in Dapitan are located inside Dakak Beach Resort and inside Gloria de Dapitan.

Bamboo Cafe at Dakak Beach Resort

Dine at the Bamboo Cafe Restaurant and enjoy an awesome view of the beach as it faces towards the sea. Open 24 hours daily.

Il Patio Ristorante Italiano at Dakak Beach Resort

It offers a wide array of Italian dishes. It is open from 11AM to 11PM and is located near the kiddie pool.

Barrack's Pizza and Burger

Barrack's serves burgers, pizzas, pasta and beverages. 

Things to Do in Dapitan City

The City of Dapitan has a number of both natural, historical and man-made attractions that visitors can surely enjoy. Here's a list of the Top 7 Things to Do in Dapitan City.

1. Visit Rizal Shrine

The Rizal Shrine is one of the most visited historical attractions in the Philippines. It is a major historical landmark of the country which became the home of Dr. Jose Rizal while in exile for four years.

2. Bike Around Dapitan City

Biking around Dapitan City is definitely fun. The city proper is rather small so you'll be able to bike around tourist spots easily. If you stay at TravelBee Heritage Hotel, you can rent their bike at only P50/day.

3. Have a Relaxig Beach Getaway at Dakak Beach Resort

Dakak Beach Resort is one of the city's main attractions. The resort is frequently visited by both local and foreign tourists. It is situated around 20-30 minutes away from the city proper and can be reached by either private or rented car or habal-habal if you're on a budget travel. Entrance to the resort is P1,000 for day tour between 8AM to 5PM (consumable) and P100 for night tour between 6PM to 1AM. 

4. Chase Sunset at Rizal Landing Shrine

One of my favorite things to do is chasing sunsets. Rizal Landing Shrine in Dapitan is a good spot to see the sun as it sets in the horizon. Unfortunately, the weather was unfavorable when I visited Dapitan so I was not able to witness the sunset on my second day.

5. Enjoy the Rides at Gloria's Fantasyland

The theme park is situated inside Gloria de Dapitan and offers a wide array of magical characters in the world of fantasy. It also has a horror house and a 5D cinema. Unlimited ride costs P1,000, Basic ride is pegged at P500 and sightseeing is at P300 which includes experiencing the 5D cinema or horror house.

6. Visit St. James Church

St. James Church was built by the Jesuits in 1971 in honor of St. James the Great, the patron saint of Dapitan. It is situated right at the heart of Dapitan City. The most amazing feature of the church is its colorful and vibrant ceiling.

 

7. Chill-out at Gloria de Dapitan and Dapitan Boulevard

The best place to chill-out at night in Dapitan City is at Gloria de Dapitan at located near the Dapitan Boulevard. A number of bars and restaurants operate in the area where guests can have fun. Beehive offers live music at night.

How to Get to Dapitan City

From Manila
The closest airport from Dapitan City is Dipolog Airport. Major airlines fly daily to Dipolog City. 

From Dipolog City
Take a non-air-conditioned Evergood Transit from Dipolog Bus Terminal. Fare is P20 and travel time is around 30 minutes.

From Ozamis City 
The second closest airport to Dapitan is Ozamis Airport so alternatively, you may take a flight here from Cebu or Manila. From Ozamis take a Dipolog-bound bus and alight in Pulo (Dapitan junction). Travel time is around 5 hours and fare for airconditioned bus is around P250.00 and non-air at around P190.00. 

From Cagayan de Oro City
From Cagayan de Oro, take a Rural Bus going to Dipolog City. Travel time is around 9 hours and fare is P475 for airconditioned bus.

From Davao City 
Take a Rural bus to Cagayan de Oro City. Travel time for a non-stop night bus is 7 hours and fare is P600.00.

From Zamboanga City
From Zamboanga City, take a Rural Bus to Dipolog. Travel time is around 8-9 hours and fare is almost P500. 

TRAVEL GUIDE : Baler, Aurora

Important things you need to know about Baler, Aurora : Where to Stay, Where to Eat, Things to Do and How to Get There.

The town of Baler in Aurora is an emerging tourist destination in the Philippines. It is is famous of its giant waves ideal for surfing. It is about 5-8 hours away from Manila and is accessible by public transport or private vehicle.

Where to Stay in Baler

Since there are already a lot of people visiting Baler, a number of accommodations have also opened recently. From high end hotel to backpacker hostels and homestays, Baler can offer you a comfortable place to stay depending on your preference and budget. 

Secret Spot Baler

Aliya Surf and Dive Resort Contact Person: Roy Angara Number: 0939-939-0844 Email: iracon@yahoo.com Amihan Aplaya Lodge 103 Brgy. Sabang, Balar, Aurora Contact Person: Lina Ferreras Contact #: 0918-693-5904 AMCO Beach Resort Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Caroline Amurao Contact #: 0939-901-6724 Bahia de Baler II Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Juliette Sayoc / Lanie Contact #: 0908-982-7064 Email: juliette@bahiadebaler.com Bahia de Baler Garden Resort  Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Juliette Sayoc Contact #: 0908-732-0672 Email: reservation@bahiadebaler.com Bay's Inn Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact #: 0908-982-3509 Email: baysinnbaler@gmail.com Carlito's Inn P.T. Ong St., Brgy Suklayin, Baler Contact Person: Myla / Gisselle Contact #: 0908-872-0816 Isla Virginia 2 Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Joel Regidor Contact #: 0908-814-2373 Kahea's Surf & Lodge Buton St. Brgy. Sabang, Baler Contact Person: Ma. Victoria Namoro Contact #: 0948-390-8873 Surfer Girl's Lodge Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Chona Cope Contact #: 0999-944-6734 MM Lodge Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Engr. Andres Mamol Contact #: 0919--537-9405 Moreno Lodge & Restaurant Brgy. Suklayin, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Myma Moreno Contact #: 0939-924-5836 Email: moreno.lodge@yahoo.com Costa Pacifica Raintree Hotel 80 Buton St., Brgy. Sabang, Baler Contact#: 0917857-4424 Landline: 853-3115 Email: inquiry@costapacificabaler.com Website: www.costapacificabaler.com Villa Juana's Angel Farm & Resort Pudok, Brgy. Buhangin, Baler Contact Person: Angel Gonong Contact #: 0919-855-5338 EL Teodoro Lodge Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Juan Cruz Contact #: 0928-796-7402

Secret Spot Baler Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Tita Rose Contact #: 0928-453-1777 Sea Breeze Lodge Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Lily Sanshez  Contact #: 0908-207-53-64 Yishing Lodge Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Jessie Esteves  Contact #: 0946-994-0928 Pacific Waves Inn Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Marvin John Lee Contact #: 0920-919-0153 Azbahaen Leisure & Farm Resort Tabing Ilog, Brgy. Reserva, Baler Contact Person: Shine Necesito Contact #: 0912-208-3588 Machiavelli Lodge Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Gigi Garcia Contact #: 0947-891-9217 Pasilyo Surf & Lodge Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Rose Tandas Contact #: 0908-251-5119 Desiree Lodge & Transient House Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Edith Buluag Contact #: 0921-751-8490 Bay-ler View Hotel Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Shiela Tablang Contact #: 0919-286-3105 Email: baylerviewhotel@yahoo.com Emerill Inn Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Alma Liceralde Contact #: 0920-946-7636 Pedervera Beach Resort Brgy. Buhangin, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Jon Dingle Contact #: 0915-762-7929 Email: jonpedersen@rocketmail.com Yellowfin Bar & Grill Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Shelly Contact #: 0999-843-6176 Twin's Inn Bitong Ext., Brgy 1, Baler Contact Person: Lilian Dizmo Contact #: 0999-392-0529 Casitas Bed & Breakfast Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact #: 0928-322-2218 Email: piasb_43@yahoo.com La Flor Lodge Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora Contact Person: Flordeliza Amazona Contact #: 0920-568-4191

Where to Eat in Baler

There are already quite a number of restaurants in Baler which serve both Filipino and international cuisines. Here's a list of places to eat while in Baler.

Nanay Pacing's Cafe
Have a bite of Baler's local delicacies at Nanay Pacing's Cafe. Nanay Pacing sells suman, espasol, rice cake in latik syrup, mango tarts peanut butter, coco jam and a lot more. 

Yellow Fin Bar & Grill
Yellow Fin Bar & Grill is located in Brgy. Sabang in between Costa Pacifica and Aliya Camp Surf which offers delectable grilled dishes. You can enjoy their grilled chicken, yellow fin, pusit, blue marlin and liempo while drinking you favorite beer by the beach.

Gerry Shan's Place
If you fancy buffet-style restaurants, Gerry Shan's Place is the right choice. For only P185 you can enjoy a variety of dishes to eat. They are located at Quezon St., Brgy. 2, Baler, Aurora.

Fermina's Snackhouse
Fermina's Snackhouse offer the best lomi and other noodle dishes in Baler. It is located at Zamora St. cor. Carrasco St., Brgy. 3 Baler, Aurora.

Ram's Tapsilog
If you want "silog" all day long, head straight to Ram's Tapsilog. They offer "silog" meals at very affordable prices starting at P45. They are located at Angara St., Corner Mabini St., Baler Aurora

Things to Do in Baler

Baler is more than just a surfing spot. There are a lot of interesting things to do in Baler aside from surfing. Visitors can enjoy both historical and natural attractions within the town of Baler, most of which are just walking distance to each other. Here's a list of the top 10 things to do in Baler:

1. Surf at Baler Bay
Baler is one of the most famous surfing spot in Luzon. Both local and foreign tourist come to Baler to enjoy its big waves.

2. Visit Dona Aurora House
The historical Dona Aurora house was re-built in honor of the wife of the late Commonwealth President Manuel L. Quezon. It is located at Rizal St., corner San Luis St., Baler, Aurora.

3. Visit Museo de Baler
The museum houses some photo exhibits of the late Pressident Quezon and his family and other leaders of the province of Aurora. It is located in Quezon Park.

4. Trek to Ermita Hills
Ermita Hill is a plateau which covers an ares of two hectares overlooking the Bay of Baler and the Pacific Ocean. It is situated at Brgy Zabali, Baler, Aurora.

5. Visit Baler Church
Baler Church was proclaimed as one of the historical landmarks of the Philippines by the National Historical Institute on February 29, 2000.

6. Experience sunrise at Baler Bay
Sunrise in Baler is spectacular. You'll enjoy viewing the sun while it rises in the horizon of the Pacific Ocean.

7. Visit Cemento Beach
Cemento Beach is suitable for tourists who loves snorkeling. It is also a good spot for professional surfers. It is also a popular haven for marine species like lobsters.

8. Explore Digisit Falls
A small but enchanting waterfalls located in Barangay Zabali, Baler, Aurora.

9. Visit Dicasalarin Bay
Dicasalarin Bay is a good place to relax. It has beaches, hills, coves, caves and reefs which will surely impress you. 

10. Explore Anyao Islets
These are two small but imposing islands which lie south of the islet of Dimadimalangat in Baler.

Things to do in Other Towns of Aurora

There are also other attractions in the province of Aurora that are waiting to be explored. Here's a list of tourist spots in the other towns of Aurora.

1. Visit the Balete Park and Millennium Tree
The park is located in the town of Maria Aurora about few minutes away from Baler. It is home to the 600 years old Balete tree.

2. Explore Bulawan and Ditumabo Falls
Ditumabo Falls is located in the town of San Luis, Aurora. It is situated within the 4,587.5 hectares of Ditumabo-Diteki Watershed Reservation are and is approximately 140 ft. high. Bulawan Falls on the other hand is located in the town of Dinalungan, Aurora. It is acclaimed as the cleanest inland body of water in teh region. 

3. Swim at Casapsapan Beach
Located in the town of Casiguran, Casapsapan Beach is another tourist spot in the province of Aurora.

How to Get to Baler

Baler is about 5-8 hours from Manila depending on the mode of transportation you take. Here's brief guide on the travel time from different points in Luzon.

From Cubao, Quezon City
JoyBus (Executive Class) - 5 hours
Genesis Transport - 8 hours

From Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Genesis Transport - 4 hours
D Liner Bus Company - 4 hours
Aurora Bus Line - 4 hours
Ma. Aurora Express - 4 hours
Private Van - 4 hours

From Baguio City
Lizardo Trans - 8 hours
D Liner Bus Company - 8 hours

For more information, you may contact the Office of the Municipal Tourism
Address: Second Floor, Executive Building, Municipal Hall, Baler, Aurora
Mobile #: 0998-989-8390
Email: delrosario_riza@yahoo.com

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TRAVEL Guide : Cagayan de Oro City

Important things you need to know about Cagayan de Oro City : Where to Stay, Where to Eat, Things to Do and How to Get There.

Cagayan De Oro City is populary dubbed as the City of Golden Friendship and is one of the Adventure Destinations in the Philippines. It is located along the central coast of Northern Mindanao and is bordered with the province of Bukidnon and Lanao del Norte. It is famous for its white water rafting which is being widely promoted by the City Tourism Office.

Where to Stay In Cagayan de Oro City

There are a number of hotels and inns in CDO which caters to both budget and leisure travelers. Some of the recommended hotels are:

Tune Hotels Cagayan de Oro City

Tune Hotel CDO is strategically located at the heart of Cagayan de Oro City. It is located at CM Recto Avenue just about 5 minutes walk from Centrio Ayala Mall and about 10 minutes walk from LimKetKai Mall. It offers affordable and comfortable accommodation ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Tune Hotel - Cagayan De Oro
Address: C.M. Recto Avenue, Cagayan De Oro City Cagayan De Oro
Website: www.tunehotels.com
Facebook Page: Tune Hotels Philippines
Twitter: @tunehotelsPH
Instagram: @tunehotels

DDD Habitat Pension House
DDH Habitat Pension house is situated at corner of Ysalina bridge in the Carmen side. They have comfortable rooms with tribal motifs at very affordable prices.

Address: J. Serina Street Corner Vamenta Boulevard
Carmen, Cagayan de Oro 9000 
Phone Number: (088) 858 5101

Mallberry Suites Business Hotel
Mallberry Suites Business Hotel provides chic accommodation and mdern amenities at affordable rates ideal for business and leisure travelers. It is located at the heart of Cagayan de Oro City right next to major shopping malls. 

D'Morvie Suites
D'Morvie Suites is ideal for backpackers who's looking for a place to stay at night nad leave the next morning. The rooms are small but it has its own restroom, a single/double bed and a flat screen TV. The rate usually starts at P250 for 12 hours stay. There's nothing fancy in this inn.

Where to Eat in Cagayan de Oro City

There are a lot of restaurants and food stalls in Cagayan de Oro City where you can satisfy your gastronomic cravings. Here are some recommended restaurants to eat in CDO.

Chub's Diner
Chubs Diner is known for its giant, juicy and tasty burgers. The place is relatively small and it is usually packed with people. This only goes to show that people life their food especially their burgers and cheesy fries.

Photo grabbed from Chub's Diner Official FB Page

Address: Corrales Avenue (across Xavier University Gym), 9000 Cagayan de Oro City
Telephone Number: (088) 310 2039
Facebook Page: Chub's Diner

Ababu Persian Kitchen
Ababu Persian Kitchen serves Persian cuisine and is the first Mindanao franchise of the restaurant. I recommend this restaurant if you like kebab and other Persian dishes. Food is affordable and good. 

Photo grabbed from Ababu Persion Kitchen FB Account

Address: Ground Floor, One Montecarlo Building 
Corrales Avenue 9000 Cagayan de Oro, Philippines
Telephone Number: 0932 743 1333
Facebook Page: Ababu Persian Kitchen

Dessert Strip
Dessert strip offers freshly baked cakes and pastries. They are 100% homemade baked by Chef Maribel. They are located at the 3rd floor of Centrio Mall and 2nd Level of Robinsons Cagayan de Oro City. You may call them at 09228245933 or email at dessert_strip_bistro@yahoo.com. 

Things to Do in Cagayan de Oro City

Experience Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking

Cagayan de Oro is considered as the Whitewater Rafting Capital in the Philippines. It is the only city in the country that offers rafting all year-round. Its river depth, incline and rock formations make rafting at the Cagayan River a fun and exciting experience. Rafting enthusiasts can connect with any of the several whitewater rafting operators and choose the level of thrill they can handle from 'beginner' to 'advance' to 'extreme'. KAGAY offers affordable packages for whitewater rafting and other activities. 

Visit Macahambus Cave

Macahambus Cave was the site of the memorable Battle of Macahambus on June 4, 1900. A marker from the Natonal Historical Institute is displayed at teh entrance to commemorate the first victoory of the Filipinos agains the Americans during the Philippine-American war. 

Explore the Mapawa Nature Park

Mapawa nature park is know for its enchanting waterfalls, magnificent views and fun-filled activities located in the forest park in Cugman. It offers a soothing environment ideal for those who wants to relax or have fun in the park's activities.

Celebrate Higalaay Festival

Higalaay Festival is Cagayan De Oro's annual fiesta celebration which is a week long festivity full of colorful and culturally-rich and fun-filled activities. It's major highlight is on the 28th of August which is also the feat of the city's patron, St. Augustine.

How to Get to Cagayan De Oro City

By Air: Cebu Pacific Air and Philippine Airlines have daily flights to Cagayan de Oro City from major cities in the Philippines : Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo and Bacolod. 

Basic Phrases to Get you Started

Philippine Airlines : (088) 857-1124 

Cebu Pacific : (08822) 72-66-98

By Sea: Shipping companies have daily schedule of boats departing from CDO to Cebu, Bohol, Bacolod, Iloilo and Manila.

2GO Travel : (088) 231-4176 

Trans Asia : (088) 856-9371 

Sulpicio Lines : (088) 856-8781

By Land: Buses from Davao, Butuan, Surigao, Iligan and Tacloban have daily trips to and from Cagayan de Oro City.

Getting Around: Jeepneys and motorela or rela (tricycle) are the most common mode of transportation in the city. Taxis are also available. 

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