Hallerr Baler! Day 02

I woke up relatively early on the 2nd Day.  

We went back to Hungry Surfer for breakfast and I availed the buffet once again.  It turned out to be a good choice the a la carte items took longer to arrive. After 3 returns to the buffet, 9 Suman (Steamed Sweetened Glutinous Brown Rice Wrapped in Leaves) and 4 Bananas, we were off to our first destination of the Day.

Ermita Hills

Because of its altitude, Ermita Hills offers a spectacular view of Sabang Beach and the Pacific Ocean.  The best time to visit would be early morning to catch the rising sun.  Apart from the scenery, Ermita Hills earns a part of History as the resettlement of the people of Baler during the tidal waves of 1735. The forest surrounding the hills also served as an escape for the people avoiding pirates and colonizers during the war.

Diguisit Falls

The falls is sometimes called Baby Falls, because of its size in reference to the Mother Falls we visited during Day 01.  From the road, it's a short steep assault to the basin.  Although not as well maintained as its bigger counterpart, the cool water and sight was a refreshing relief from the hot midday sun.

Diguisit and Aniao Islets

It was almost lunchtime when we reached AMCO Diguisit Resort.  The tides are low when arrived making the islet accessible for picture taking.  I took refuge under the shade of coconut trees near the swimming pool.  The only thing I brought to protect me from the sun was my Malong, so I just enjoyed the scenery near the shore.

Dicasalarin Cove

After the Diguisit, we were made to choose, whether to go back to town for lunch or pay an additional 300 pesos to visit Dicasalarin Cove.  Armed with a heavy breakfast we pushed the tour further to this destination.  The road leading to the cove is winding steep climb.  Vehicles can only enter one at a time, and communicated near the entrance.  The view from the gate is spectacular, so I suggest that you get off your vehicle to capture this view.

Before heading to the beach, we first visited the Artist Village, that is just a few steps away from the parking area.

Artist Village

The artist village houses a collection of Photographs and Paintings by local artist.  The structure itself is a sight to behold.  The building blends with the surroundings with open and picture windows.  Nothing much was happening when we arrived, but it also serves a venue for performances and workshop on some days.

The place is also known for their wood fire oven pizza.  But during our visit, they have run out of stock.  It's also because of the number of visitors that day.  As a back up plan, our Tour Guides decided to go back to buy food in town as we explore what Dicasalarin has to offer.

We settled ourselves on one of the shaded tables near the beach.  It was still hot and humid, so we decided to rest a bit.  The two kids we are with doesn't seemed to mind the weather and at 2:30, I took take them for a swim.  The beach has white sand, as compared to the grey sands of Sabang.  The dip was just what I needed to cool down.  A few minutes later, Kuya Vanky arrived with the food.

Lunch was quick, probably because our breakfast seemed ages ago.  The Bulalo and Grilled Fish from Yolly's that we had were just so good.  It didn't take long for us to get on our feet again this time to trek the lighthouse on top of the hill.  Actually, I'm not really sure what it is, some would say it's a Sundial, and others refer to it as the Erection Tower because of its stance.

A short trek along the beach would take you to the first landing of the steps to the top.  The view going up is breathtaking and even more when you reach the lighthouse.

Dicasalarin Cave

Before going back to the beach, we decided to explore the cave underneath.  Yes, there is actually a cave that connects the two coves.  According Kuya Vanky, not many people knew of the cave.  You just need to be careful with the tides, since crossing can be difficult when it's high.

After the cave, we packed up, change our clothes and went on our way back to town.  We want to be able to leave before it gets dark.  We want our driver to have full visibility of the winding steep road.

When we reached Giucelle, we took turns on taking a shower in preparation for dinner.   Luckily, our ever-reliable restaurant, Yolly's extended their operations to 24 hours.  The other van ate at the buffet next door.

To celebrate our last night, we were supposed to drink Tumbanog.  I'm not sure whether our other companions chickened out on this version of the Lambanog because of the name, but 3 of us (Ms. A, Dennis and me) gave it a try.  Actually, I think JR and Dulz decided to sleep early so they can surf the next morning.

We were suppose to just sample the drink and continue with beer, but I guess we were engrossed with each others stories that we decided to quit when only 1/4 of the bottle was left and its already 5AM.

End of Day 02, that extended tip day 03!

Contact Roadtrip Travel for your own adventure!

FOR INQUIRIES, you may message us thru our FB page
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Related post:

Haller Baler! Day 01

5 things I Like About Travelling with Tour Groups

I love travelling.  So much, that I enjoy doing with or without companions.

Travelling solo has its advantages and disadvantages, but for now, I am writing about what I enjoy most in going on Group Tour Packages.

Previously, I was able to join Parana Tours for a trip to Mt. Pulag, and Travelfactor for the Pahiyas Trip, but my most memorable so far is with Roadtrip Travels as we spent a 3 day adventure in the town of Baler.

1.  Hassle Free

Itinerary for group tours are usually designed to maximise your stay at your destination.   With group tours, you don't have to worry about getting to your destination and transfers.  Especially in provinces where attractions are far apart and transportation a problem.  You just need to read carefully the inclusions, and prepare extra for your personal incidentals.  Advance reading and research is also an advantage.  You can compare rates and check on the value of the inclusions whether you're getting the best value or not.

2.  Shared Expenses

Group tours are usually cheaper because expenses are shared among the participants.  There are expenses that charges per group, like tricycle and boat rides.  Also, accommodations are priced lower especially if you're willing to share.  The more participant, the lesser your contribution.

3.  Freebies

Tour providers have different gimmicks to attract tourist.  My Mt. Pulag climb with Parana comes with a certificate.  My trip to Pahiyas with Travelfactor comes with a shirt and I.D., and my Baler adventure comes with and I.D. and a Bag Tag.  This way, you save up on souvenir for your trip.

4.  Flexible

Since you have the transport service to yourself, it has the flexibility to stop for road side discoveries and breaks.

5.  Meet New Friends

Its ok to be shy at first, but you need to warm up and eventually mingle with other participants.  Somehow, this makes the trip meaningful.  Apart from the destination, lasting memories are created with the relationships you build on the trip.  It widens your network and the learnings are valuable.  Also, group shots are more fun and creative!

Shots made better with a group!  My new found friends L-R Dulz, JR, Sara, Me, Ms. A

Hallerr Baler! Day 01

Thank God for long weekends.  This August, we have Ninoy Aquino day falling on a Thursday and National Heroes day on a Monday giving employees the option to take a 5-day travel weekend.

Originally, we planned on going to Sagada via Baguio, but a recent emergency with one of our travel companion left us going on individual trips.  2 friends went to Hong Kong, my partner has to run errands for his relative visiting from Cebu and I opted to go to Baler.  I’m probably the only travel blogger who hasn’t visited the province. 

Roadtrip Travel & Tours

(02) 470 9956
Dennis - 0908 8814208
Vanky - 0921 6512065

Fortunately I have a friend who organizes group tours.  His company is Roadtrip Travel, and their more consistent destination is Baler and Ilocos.  When I contacted him, he has a 3D/2N trip leaving Friday night, but was already full.  I persisted and offered to commute my way and just re-group when I arrive at the town.  His 2D/1N tour only costs 2.8k while the 3D/2N is 3.2K.  They even have a promo of 2.2k per head for a group of 10 people.  He told me that he has a second group but will confirm Thursday morning.  Luckily, they did and I was scheduled for pick up at Jollibee fronting Robinsos Galleria along Ortigas at 11 PM.

The tour inclusion are as follows:
Roundtrip Van Transfers (Toyota Grandia 11 seater)
2 Nights stay at Baler Aurora 
3 Breakfasts (Hungry Surfer or similar)
Tour Guide / Photographer
Driver Meals and Accomodation
Souvenirs and Id's

*Ditumabo "Mother Falls" (inclusive of accredited Tour guide and Trike transfers)
*Diguisit and Aniao Islets (Inclusive of entrance fees)
*Sabang Beach
*Town Tour - Baler Musuem, Dona Aurora House, Pasalubong Center
*Balete Tree Park (Inclusive of entrance fees)
*Ermita Hills

Optional
Dicasalarin Cove - P300 entrance fee
Surf with Instructor - P350 per hour
Surf Board Rentals

The Van arrived around 11:30, because the traffic was bad coming from Pasig.  Already inside were Ms. A (Ate Ana), Sara, Kuya Vanky our Driver/Guide, Dennis our Tour Organizer and the two kids Joey and Benedict.  We then travelled to Trinoma to meet the other Van and our two other travel companions Jay R and Dulce.  It wasn’t hard to warm up with the group.  They were the friendliest and most accommodating set of tour mates I have ever met.

We left the meeting place a few minutes past 12MN and was on our way to Baler stopping along NLEX and arriving in Cabanatuan at 3:00 AM.  We tried to catch up on sleep the entire ride since our itinerary is packed for the 3-Day adventure. 

Sunrise at Sang Beach, Baler, Aurora

Hungry Surfer

Hungry Surfer, the Famous Breakfast Place with an
Eat All You Can Buffet for only 180 pesos

We arrived in Baler 3.5 hours later just in time for Breakfast.  Our gracious host Dennis, took us to Hungry Surfer.  Here, you may opt to try their Eat All You Can buffet for only 180 pesos inclusive of Drinks or, order from their Menu.  Roadtrips package comes with a free meal, but an additional 80 pesos entitles you the buffet.  The restaurant is conveniently located beside Costa Pacifica.

Buffet at Hungry Surfer

Guicelle Baler Transient House

After breakfast, we then settled our things at Guicelle Baler Transient House near the TESDA Center.  We all shared a room with large mattresses and a Huge Toilet reminiscent of what we have in Victoria Court complete with a bidet hose and rain-shower.

We stayed at their studio, but the other group stayed
at the apartment with dining area, a living room, porch, bedrooms and kitchen!

Ditumabo Mother Falls

Ditumabo Mother Falls

Our first activity for the day was to visit the Mother Falls.  From the jump off, we need to ride a tricycle for a short bumpy ride on a dirt road before the trek. The less than an hour climb was relatively easy with a few slippery rocks and bamboo bridge crossing on some parts.  At the end of the trail is the huge falls dropping into a small lagoon gently sloping to the drop making it conducive to swimming.  The cool water was just what we needed after sweating it out in the climb.  After swimming and picture taking, we headed back to the jump off and proceeded back to town for lunch.

After that bumpy ride, now comes the trek!

Yolly’s Ihaw Ihaw and Restaurant

You know a restaurant is good,
buy the number of visitors who frequents the place!
Yolly's Ihaw Ihaw & Restaurant

This is fast becoming a landmark in Baler.  The place was full when we arrive, and people continuously arrive the entire lunch afternoon.  What draws people to the place is their wide selection of seafood and local dishes, not to mention the fact that it’s affordable and really tasty.  I sampled their Lechon Kawali but the stand filled with Lobster and Crab was so tempting.

After that filling lunch, we went back to our Transient House to freshen up and rest a bit.  Dennis made reservations for our surfing lessons 5PM that afternoon.

Some of us used our resting time to drink.  It’s the best way to socialize.  We had so much fun that we almost missed our schedule.  By 4:30, we were on our way back to the beach for our lessons.

Michael Surf Shop and Surfing Lesson

I would have to admit I was hesitant at first, but would not let this trip pass without having to try what this province is known for.   Local instructors were assigned to us individually.  After the introduction on the parts of the board and the basic moves, we were then taken to the water.  Our timing was perfect since the waves are gently rolling ideal for beginners.  After a few try, I somehow managed to stand and ride the waves longer and longer as I get the hang of it.  The experience was so addicting, especially when you sensed that you’re improving.  My mistake was taking my shirt off.  I got scrapes on my chest and thigh from the constant rubbing with the board.

The 1 hr lesson seemed like minutes.  After surfing we walked our way back to our Transient House to wash up and prepare for dinner.

The Rolling Store

Since we're a big group, the wash up time took 3 hours.  When we left for dinner, there only a few restaurants open.  We decided to try the Rolling Store Complex beside the Museo de Baler.  Our driver guide, Kuya Vanky mentioned, that a trip to Baler would not be complete without having to eat at the Rolling Store.

This is your typical Turo-Turo eatery, selling an assortment of viands as low as 30 pesos.  I decided to try the dinuguan and rice (50 pesos) but was still hungry after that I ordered myself an additional Pork Adobo with Rice (another 50 pesos).

The lack of sleep and the tiring physical activity drained our energy and it did not take long for us to sleep the moment we got back at Guiselle.

Linear Dining

Juan Luna St. in Divisoria is my favourite place to look for upholstery materials.  Sometimes I would use leatherette intended for bags for an unconventional look to furniture.  

Every time I'm in the area, I would always eat at a small food house along the rows of the many canvass stores that lined the street.  

During lunch hour, the place gets full and sometimes I will just eat at the counter fronting the glass showcase with an 8 inch depth.

My plates of orders occupied the length of the showcase but my bill was less than a hundred pesos.

My Kiampong, Lechon Kawali, Free Soup, Meatballs, Adobo Egg, and Sofdrink all for less than 100php.

Volcanic Grill, My Recent Palanan Discovery

Baranggay Palanan in Makati is a typical residential area until the expansion of Cash and Carry that gave way to business opportunities from once a sleepy neighbourhood.

Residents have become creative in converting unused areas and extension of their home converting it into stores, laundry shops, and in this case a restaurant specialising on grilled items.  It took us 3 years before discovering Volcanic Grill along Faraday St., considering that we live a few blocks away.

Its in the area where motorists don't normally pass.  From the street, you will see an open gate where wooden tables are arranged underneath a tent lighted with huge organic woven drop lights.

Their menu is a collection of Filipino and Asian favourites.  Apart from the grilled items, they also have curries and other asian dishes.  They have monthly specials in case you get bored with their usual offerings.

On this visit we tried the Yellow Curry Chicken and the Katsu Curry, with the Clams in Broth and an order of the Gising Gising.

The place is also conducive to drinking with the sound just loud enough so you can still talk with your companions.  The price is very reasonable, although it takes them a long time to prepare and serve the meals.

Designing the Studio for Mayad Studios

Mayad's Entrance Before

The Brick Room Before

The Black Room Before

The Blue Room Before

The Green Room Before

The Conference Room Before

Photos grabbed form Mayad Studios Facebook page.