We had a chance for a staycation at Kandaya Resort. It was when travel restrictions were lifted and we completed our vaccination. Located at the northern part of Cebu, this place is ideal for anyone looking  for a short escape from the bustle of the city. It also suit to our liking since each room or villa has its own private pool. Being safe is a priority when dealing with COVID-19, and having your own pool for your family to enjoy provides that assurance.

The resort is family friendly. Every room is set far enough apart to provide privacy. 

Our room is clean and big enough for 4 people with 2 extra bed already prepared. The room has a soft neutral color palette that gives off a soothing aura.

What we enjoyed:

• Personalized welcome note from the resort;
  
  
• Private pool;
  
  
• The bathroom that appears to be straight out of a magazine is my favorite;
  
  
• The spacious game room - we were able to play billiard and table tennis;
  
  
  
• The beautiful sunset;
  
  
  
• And a restful day.
  
  
  
  
  

Thanks Kandaya Resort for a comfortable stay.

Garin Farm Pilgrimage Resort

Captured photos during our visit at Garin Farm Pilgrimage Resort last 1Q of 2019. Enjoy :)

Check details of our trip here :D

4 Kid-Friendly Theme Parks when in Manila

1. Manila Ocean Park
Recommended place to explore and get up-close and personal with freshwater and seawater creatures. They have promo packages wherein different attractions are combined at a certain price. I just hope the management will take extra care of the animals. I know that its better to explore these marine life outside the aquarium, yet, seeing crocodiles, sharks, sting rays, corals and those rare fishes in one-time setting is probably unlikely nowadays especially with today's threat to our environment, I would still bring my kids and visit again this park to explore and learn. Read here for our Manila Ocean Park experience.

2. Enchanted Kingdom
Located down south of Manila, experience thrills and excitement through fun and mind-blowing rides for kids and kids at heart. One time payment and avail ride-all-you-can. Visit during weekdays to avoid big crowds and long queues on per rides. We have so much fun.

3. SkyRanch Tagaytay
Still down south, experience another amusement center having the largest ferris wheel in the country with nice view like Taal Volcano and Taal Lake at the background. Lots of children rides too but unlike Enchanted Kingdom, you have to pay per ride..and oh entrance fee is also a separate payment too :) We went to try the Sky Eye.

4. DreamPlay by DreamWorks
An interactive play inspired by DreamWorks movies like Shrek, How to Train Your Dragon and KungFu Panda. Rather pricey yet it allow kids to play, create and learn. It is indoor activity center so you don't have to worry from the country's bipolar weather. My kids had a chance to experience DreamPlay by DreamWorks.

Have Fun! :)

Places to visit in Cebu for a day

I mean Cebu City...

A very dear friend, Ms A, made a layover here in Cebu before heading home and because it has been months not seeing her kids, she thought it would also be a good idea for Cebu to be their rendezvous. 
I selfishly loved her idea for it would also be an opportunity for our family to bond. My eldest and her youngest are of same age and the last time they saw each other was when they were 1-year old, that was 9 years ago. Though we (me and A) saw each other and chatted for 2 hours last year, I find it so bitin compared to 3 days and 2 nights of stay - that surely is enough to reconnect and bond right?
Forgive my excitement, its just that I seldom or don't have "friends night-out" or "ladies/mommies night", thus a friend's visit sort of take my loneliness away. Don't take me wrong, I date with the husband and the kiddos...its just that sometimes I feel the need of girlfriends and boyfriends. Diba Joy? Jim? :D

Anyways, enough of the drama. So A, decides to stroll Cebu with her kids, though with limited time, might as well make the most of it.

Sto. Nino Basilica Church & Magellan's Cross
A must visit place for Catholics. A visit for thanksgiving...for the blessings receive, for this opportunity, for the safe trip, for everything. 
One of Cebu's oldest church, believe to be the place where the image of Sto. Nino (Child Jesus) was found when the Portuguese gave this image as a gift to early settlers of Cebu, thus the growth of Christianity. 
Magellan's Cross, located beside the church, is the small chapel that housed the cross erected by the Portuguese colonizers. The ceiling has paintings that depicts the beginning of Christianity in Cebu as introduced by Portuguese and Spaniards.

Taoist Temple
Located inside Beverly Hills Subdivision in Cebu City, this towering temple was built by the local Chinese in the community. It has temples, pagodas and  statues that depicts chinese cultures and beliefs. This is open for public viewing. You can enjoy taking pictures of the place except their altars and their saints.

Busay's Lantaw Restaurant 
If you want to dine at the same time have the best seat as you view the breathtaking beauty of the city, then this place is for you. This resto offers native cuisines at a very affordable price.  

We rented a taxi for 1300php to bring us to these places and I thought it is convenient considering we kids with us. Our last stop is Ayala Center Cebu.
Their 2nd day was spent at Bohol.
Their 3rd day was well spent our friend's house for a house warming. Just in time!
It was a short stay and here's to hoping they enjoy Cebu visiting shrines and dining at the top of the mountain. Hoping for more laag with family in the near future by His Grace. Happy Birthday my dear friend. 
I love you more! Mwaah :D
Photos from A's FB.

Staycation at Mövenpick Hotel Cebu

Last month, we had a chance to stay for a day at Mövenpick Hotel at Mactan Island Cebu. July is one of our favorite month as it is the month we tied the knot. And even if wedding anniversaries are supposed to be celebrated by couples we thought it would be merrier if it is to be celebrated with our kiddos.

We were greeted with this reception area of emerald blue and white theme. As we waited for our room to be available, we were offered with welcome goodies (a soft moist brownies), however for the welcome drinks, it seems like they are selective in whom to offer.

They only have one pool. It has different depth levels that can cater both children and adults. And those chairs are comfortable to sit in as you watch your kiddos play with water.

The room is clean and big enough for 2 adults and 2 young kids. The bed and pillows are soft to sleep in. They only have one chair. Nevertheless, I like the light blue theme, it makes the room cool and vibrant (or its just me being biased coz I love blue!)

A 32" TV is available, a phone, a Wifi, a cute lamp and a corner's space for additional furniture maybe :)

The view from our room's terrace. It was cloudy that day but that didn't stop us from enjoying our stay.

They have restaurant (Ibiza Beach Club) at the beach that offers a lot from food, wine and entertainment perfect for party people. The fun starts at night time.

The beachline is small and clean and serene, perfect for those who don't like chaos :)

Overall, it was a good experience:
- the kids enjoy their swimming adventure (though they like the pool most);
- the pillows and the bed is so comfy and soft that we had a good night sleep;
- and ohh! by the way...we love their breakfast buffet. It has a typical breakfast buffet menu, simple yet taste good (I haven't had a chance to take a photo though).
Indeed, it was a comfortable stay.

#roadtrip to Cebu South: Moalboal (Part 3)

Third Stop: Snorkeling at Moalboal, Cebu

We depart from Kawasan Falls at ~ 4pm and make our way to -> Moalboal, our last stop for this #roadtrip. :)
It was a long day and we needed a nice comfortable place for a good night sleep, so off to Hale Manna Beach Resort & Coastal Garden. Previous post about the resort here and here.
Tip: Call in advance for reservation since this resort is always fully-booked

Had a stopover at the Moalboal's market and bought some fish, chicken and spices as we planned to request the resort to cook for us (we are way too tired to prepare our dinner). As soon as we arrived at the resort and settled with our respective room, had to freshen up and bathe the kids. Then, a bit of relaxing moment at the living room while listening to Ross play his digital bagpipe. Too bad I haven't been able to take a picture of us even at the place where we chat and drink (men only) the ever famous Red Horse beer before we call it a night.

The following day, after breakfast, we were set to go swimming with the sardines and turtles. We rented a boat to guide us to the sardines and turtles at P2500. The wonders of Moalboal is underneath the sea so, yep, better bring with you your snorkeling gear and camera. Sea corals are everywhere, some gently sways to where the current may bring them flexible like a bamboo trees with the winds and those huge school of sardines, never get bored looking at them, amazed at how simply synchronize they are as they change direction. Plus I get to see "Dory" and her family and little Nemos too. There are turtles too but just too elusive.
Captivated by the beauty of Moalboal's underwater scene that we lost track of time. Went back to the resort for lunch (we avail their P395.00 buffet lunch and its so sulit (worth it)!

It was a tiring 2-day adventure but one of the best thing this weekend was that you get to spend it with these lovely people. So little time, yet so worthwhile. I hope everyone had a great time. And yes I would love to do this again.

Van Rental for 2 days = P7000.00 (Plus tip)
from Cebu City -> Oslob -> Badian -> Moalboal -> Cebu City
Contact Number: 0917-321-1470 / (032)254-0763

You may want to read our Oslob and Badian adventure here:
#roadtrip to Cebu South: Oslob (Part 1)
#roadtrip to Cebu South: Badian (Part 2)

#roadtrip to Cebu South: Badian (Part 2)

Second Stop: Kawasan Falls at Badian, Cebu

From Oslob, we continue our #roadtrip and headed to our next destination -> Kawasan Falls, Badian.
Oslob to Badian via Samboan is around 2-3 hrs ride. Don't worry, you'll never get bored since the scenery is nice. We made a short stop at Samboan's little roundabout, which is beside the town's municipal hall. Made a short stop and some took pictures of the town's old church and lighthouse and see the view Dumaguete Island.

I'm not sure which town of Badian we stopped, however I'm definitely assured it's the entry point towards Kawasan Falls as indicated in the signage :). The entry point's landmark is Badian's Church were lots of vehicles and motorcycles parked. 
There are two options in getting to the falls;
     - take a ride on the motorcycle at P50.00 per person;
     - walk;
We chose the second option. Walking in group gives a chance for small talks and since the trail is beside the river, you get to see the river's beauty, its crystal clear waters, freshwater fishes, some abandoned bridges and trees. Be careful from falling since there are no safety fences along the riverside. You get to pass a short bridge with no railings too. Also, motorcycles passed from time to time so better stay at the safer side of the trail especially if you have kids with you.

Entrance fee:
     - P20.00 for local tourists
     - P40.00 for foreign tourists
The last time I'm here, I remembered not paying any entrance fee, however we came from the mountains of Mantalungon, from our Osmena Peak trek.

Kawasan Falls consist of 3 layers waterfalls. We just stayed at the first falls. Climbing to the second and third falls is a bit challenging especially if you bringing younger kids. The spring's water is so cold, even with just a dip of my feet already gives me shivers, while Ange like it so much she thought its refreshing, much better than the seawater or swimming pool's water. Some of the group went to look the next waterfalls. It still has its beautiful cold aquamarine blue spring water yet lesser crowd. 

The waterfalls and its water is already a treat yet everything else is sooo expensive.
     - P300.00 for tables and cottages rentals
     - P300.00 if you want to get to the falls through the raft
     - P150.00 for life jackets rentals
     - Even a P6.00 Sakto Coke is priced at P40.00!

So in case you want to Kawasan Falls, remember:

• Swimming is free.
• Bring food and water with you.
• Come in weekdays to avoid the crowd.

You may want to read our Oslob adventure here:
#roadtrip to Cebu South: Oslob (Part 1)

#roadtrip to Cebu South: Oslob (Part 1)

We had a chance to have a #roadtrip down south of Cebu, a chance to have fun and enjoy each other's company, a chance to meet new friends.

First Stop: Whale Shark Watching at Oslob, Cebu

Locally known as Butanding, these whale sharks are located in the town of Tanawan, Oslob. It was told that they found this place due to the abundance of krill, their food. And when fishermen noticed that these gentle giants does not harm them while fishing and vice versa, thus the rest is history. Thankfully, the government regulated this "up-close encounter" session by letting the sightseer look or swim with them until 12:00NN only. Just like us, they need beauty rest, you know :)

We departed from the city around 6:00 AM. The ride took us 3 hours and when we arrived, the crowd is already huge. We chose the resort recommended by our van's driver and made necessary payments:
     Expenses:

• Whale Watching
       - Local Tourist: P300.00
       - Foreign Tourist: P500.00
• Swimming with Whales
       - Local Tourist: P500.00
       - Foreign Tourist: P1000.00
• Underwater Camera Rental: P575.00
• Inclusive use of life jacket, snorkeling gear, boat and boatman to bring you to the whale shark's location and free use of resort's tables and huts in case tourists like to take their snacks or lunch.

Hmmnn, wondered why the rate is different when both locals and foreigners used same boat or same life jacket. Anyways, the assigned boatman will take your underwater photos in case you pay for the camera rental.

Once we sealed the deal, we were brought to the tourist's drop-off place for the orientation. Of all reminders, these are the ones I remembered:
     - That we have to rinse off the sun-block we put on our skin as the chemicals may harm the shark whales; 
     - And that we are not allowed to touch them. 
Once done with the orientation, we were told to wait for our turn. 
I was bit confused by how it was organized for the drop-off area looks in chaos, all waiting for their turn not knowing when or maybe because its weekend and there were just too many interested to watch the whale sharks or maybe because I did not listen to the instruction that I don't know what to do next.
Anyways, got pretty excited again when it was our turn to ride on the boat. All in all it was fun but I felt sorry for these huge fishes, fact is, it cannot be avoided that they will be hit by the swimmers or from the paddle or from the boat. I just hope that local officers will strictly implement their rules. 

Not to spoil the fun, here are our photos :D Special thanks to our boatman who took the pictures.
The ladies & kiddos stayed in the boat while the men and Honey who were braver swam with the whales.
Enjoy!