Our two-day sun and sand getaway at Nagsasa Cove in Zambales was indeed so refreshing. As we headed along Gapan Road in Pampanga, we searched for dining options somewhere in the city which is known for its sophisticated culinary work and exotic dish. By a stroke of luck, we stumbled upon this humble restaurant Apag Marangle which was beside the main highway in Sta. Barbara, Bacolor, Pampanga.
the big nipa hut that warmly greeted us
This is our first time to watch the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival, the longest-running sports event in Asia which is now in its 21st year. I’ve heard this is the last festival, so I enjoined my family my niece, and nephews to witness this exciting activity at OMNI Aviation in Clark, Pampanga which will happen from February 9 to 12, 2017.
the balloons ready for take off
For my daughter’s 10th birthday celebration, we opted to go back to Katungkulan Beach Resort (formerly known as Cavite de Boracay) in Ternate, Cavite for another water fun adventure. Unfortunately, it was closed due to the week-long training of the marines. Our Plan B was in Ternate Beach Resort, the nearest resort known for its budget rate and accessibility.
another water fun for Shen’s 10th birthday
The view of the grassy hill and the start of cool temperature served as an appetizer for a fresh meal of amazing scenery ahead of us as we were approaching Baguio City. But as we moved on I was surprised to see that it was now highly urbanized with houses made of modern architecture and with fewer pine trees. And there was heavy traffic along the way.
Benguet after the rain
Our wonderful Baler trip is about to end, but the excitement is still soaring high as we sped on the road going to the last two scenic spots: the Hanging Bridge and the Balete Millennium Tree.
In celebration of Mother’s Day today, we will spend the night with a boodle feast at Blackbeard’s Seafood Island North Shore or simply Seafood Island at SM Bay the Bay, Mall of Asia. And another reason to hype up the evening is the birthday celebration of my youngest brother Choy who is on a two-week vacation (he is based in Singapore). This is his treat. Thanks, bro!
the menu
Our vacation in Ilocos Province was indeed refreshing. As we were on our way to Manila, the group still craves its famous delicacies. It was nearing twelve high noon and while we were along Diversion Road in San Fernando we stumbled upon this cute restaurant Nipa Resto Grill with ”Bahay Kubo” style structure. And everyone was excited to hop out from the van and eat!
Nipa Resto Grill along Diversion Road
We couldn’t get enough of our swimming escapade in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte and wanted to stay for one more day at Casa Victoria Resort. But we have to move on to our next exciting activity this Lenten season. We will ride the waves of San Juan in La Union, the Surfing Capital of the North.
friendly waves early morning
After a two-hour nap in Mojica Residencia Hotel, everyone is ready to take a walk in the cobbled Calle Crisologo, the main attraction in Vigan. We are so excited to see the famous Spanish colonial architecture of the city and its famous tourist spots.
We were mesmerized by the beauty of Calle Crisologo last night and before we bid goodbye to Vigan, we went back today to see this prime tourist attraction in broad daylight. It was another surreal feeling to see the cobbled pathway with less crowd compared to the other night. As the continuation of our Ilocos escapade, we will visit today Paoay Church, Plaza del Norte, and the Malacañang of the North.
the imposing Paoay Church with the massive buttresses
