Mapawa Nature Park: An Adventure-filled Paradise in Cagayan de Oro City

Are you looking for an exciting outdoor adventure? Are you craving a break from the hustle and bustle of city life? Look no further than the Mapawa Nature Park in Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City. This beautiful forest park is teeming with waterfalls, swimming pools, ziplines, and other thrilling activities that will leave you exhilarated and rejuvenated.

In this beginner's guide to Mapawa Nature Park, we'll walk you through all the exciting activities and sights you can experience on your visit.

Getting to Mapawa Nature Park

First things first, let's talk about how to get to Mapawa Nature Park. From Cagayan de Oro City, take a 30-minute ride towards Malasag. Once you reach the Mapawa entrance, take a 4x4 vehicle or a motorcycle ride up the hill to the reception area of the park. Don't worry; the ride to the reception area is a thrilling adventure in itself.

The Adventure Begins: Rappelling and Horseback Riding

Upon arriving at the reception area, you will be greeted by the breathtaking view of the forest park. You can start your adventure by rappelling down a 65-meter cliff, the highest cliff drop in Southeast Asia. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, you can opt for a horseback ride instead.

Waterfalls Galore: Trekking and Cliff Jumping

One of the main attractions in Mapawa Nature Park is the waterfalls. The park boasts of six waterfalls, each with a unique beauty that is worth exploring. You can embark on a trek up to the falls to get up close and personal with the cascading waters. The trek can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours, depending on which falls you want to visit. Once you reach the falls, you can take a dip in the refreshing pools or try out cliff jumping if you're feeling brave.

Swimming Pools and Waterslide: Chill and Relax

If you want to take a break from all the adrenaline-pumping activities, you can head over to the swimming pools. Mapawa Nature Park has two swimming pools - the bamboo pool and the blue pool. You can just chill and soak in the natural beauty of the park or take the waterslide for a fun ride into the pool.

Zipline: High-Flying Adventure

For the ultimate high-flying adventure, you can try out the Mapawa zipline. The zipline is 450 meters long, and you'll experience a bird's-eye view of the park as you glide through the air.

Tips for Your Visit

Now that you're all set to explore Mapawa Nature Park, here are some tips to make your visit as enjoyable as possible:

- Wear comfortable and appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking and outdoor activities.

- Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan on taking a dip in the waterfalls or swimming pools.

- Pack a water bottle, snacks, and sunscreen as there are limited food and drink options in the park.

- Book in advance for activities like zip-lining and horseback riding to ensure availability.

- Follow the rules and regulations of the park for your safety and the preservation of the environment.

Mapawa Nature Park is a gem of a destination that is well worth the trip. With its waterfalls, swimming pools, zipline, and other thrilling activities, the park offers something for everyone. So, gather your friends or family, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure-filled escape to Cagayan de Oro City's best-kept secret.

Getaway to Paradise: Discovering the Luxurious Cebu R Resort

Welcome to Cebu R Resort

Have you been dreaming of a place where you can relax and unwind? Look no further than Cebu R Resort, your ultimate luxurious beachfront getaway. Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, the resort boasts modern amenities and stunning natural beauty.

Located in the beautiful town of Tabuelan, Cebu R Resort is a perfect destination for those who crave adventure or just want to relax by the beach. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or family, Cebu R Resort has something to offer everyone.

The Beautiful Ocean and Sands

One of the main attractions of Cebu R Resort is the beautiful ocean and sands that surround the resort. You are a stone’s throw away from the pristine waters of the ocean. Take a stroll on the soft, sandy beaches and feel the cool ocean breeze caressing your face while you watch the waves wash ashore. The beach stretches for miles, so you'll never run out of space to explore.

The resort also offers a range of activities to give you a unique experience of the ocean. From snorkeling and scuba diving to kayaking, the staff is eager to customize your stay and make the most of your time.

Luxurious Accommodations

Cebu R Resort offers luxurious accommodations with modern amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. The resort has a range of accommodations to suit everyone’s needs, from small families to large groups.

The rooms are spacious and well-lit, with large windows that offer breathtaking views of the ocean. The rooms come equipped with comfortable beds, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms even have private balconies, so you can enjoy the view in privacy.

On-Site Dining Experience

Cebu R Resort offers a range of dining options, from local Filipino cuisine to international dishes. The on-site restaurant offers a variety of dishes, made with fresh local ingredients and served by friendly staff.

The resort also has a bar, where you can grab a refreshing drink while enjoying the stunning ocean views. If you prefer a more intimate dining experience, the resort has in-room dining facilities that can be arranged at an additional cost.

Relaxation and Wellness

Cebu R Resort provides the perfect retreat for those who seek rest and relaxation. The resort has a spa, where you can indulge in a range of treatments, from massages to facials. The trained therapists at the spa use only the best products to soothe your skin and calm your nerves.

For fitness enthusiasts, the resort has a fully-equipped gym that is perfect for workouts. Guests can also take a dip in the resort's swimming pool or kick back and relax in the sauna.

Activities to Explore

Apart from the beachfront activities, there are several other activities for guests to enjoy at the Cebu R Resort. Take a boat ride to explore and discover the nearby islands. If you're feeling more adventurous, the staff can arrange for you to go hiking or zip-lining in the mountains. The Cebu R Resort also offers fishing trips, which are perfect for those who love being out at sea.

Events and Weddings

Cebu R Resort is also an ideal venue for hosting special events such as weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and anniversaries. The resort provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable event with stunning views of the ocean and natural surroundings. The staff can assist with planning and organizing the event to make it a success.

In conclusion, Cebu R Resort is a luxurious beachfront getaway that offers modern amenities and natural beauty. From the beautiful ocean and sandy beaches to the well-lit and spacious rooms, the resort provides a perfect retreat for families, couples, and solo travelers. With a range of activities and facilities, the resort has something for everyone. Book your stay today and experience the ultimate luxurious getaway in Cebu.

Unveiling the Hidden Treasures of Sangat Island, Coron: A Guide to the Best Beaches and Dive Sites.

Sangat Island in the province of Coron is a hidden gem that's waiting to be discovered by adventurers and sea enthusiasts alike. From the sunken ships of the WWII to the rich underwater wildlife, this island is a must-visit for deep water scuba divers and snorkeling enthusiasts.

In this blog post, we'll explore the wonders of Sangat Island, Coron, and what makes this small island a top tourist destination in the Philippines. 

Getting to Sangat Island

Located in the northwest part of Coron, Sangat Island can be reached by airplane or ferry from Manila or Puerto Princesa. You can take an internal flight to Busuanga Airport, then transfer via shuttle or private car to the Coron port. From there, you can ride a ferry to Sangat Island.

Pro tip: It's best to schedule your trip during the low season (June to November) to avoid the crowd and have a better chance at lower rates for accommodations.

Shipwreck Diving

Sangat Island is famous for its shipwreck diving sites. During the WWII, the Imperial Japanese Navy sank several ships in the waters around Coron. These ships are now home to a diverse marine life and have become favorite diving spots for adventurers and deep-water scuba divers.

The Akitsushima Maru warship, Irako Maru, and the Kyokuzan Maru are just a few of the sunken ships around Sangat Island that you can explore. You can witness how these ships slowly turned into amazing coral reefs, providing shelter to rare and vibrant marine creatures.

Snorkeling

If you're not a fan of deep water diving, snorkeling is the next best option. You can marvel at the amazing coral formations and underwater wildlife that varies from small schools of fish to barracudas, reef sharks, and more.

Sangat Island has several snorkeling spots where you can observe the colorful aquatic life. Banana Island, Malpagalen Island, and Pass Island are some of the popular islands that offer these activities.

Lodging and accommodation

Sangat Island provides travelers with excellent accommodations that cater to all types of budgets. From cottages to luxurious villas, you can choose your lodging option that suits your taste.

The Sangat Island Resort offers guests spacious rooms with sea-facing views, outdoor activities, guided tours, and an on-site dive center. The resort offers an all-inclusive package that includes meals, drinks, and airport transfers.

Underwater wildlife

Sangat Island is home to an array of underwater wildlife that will fascinate marine life enthusiasts. Alongside the shipwrecks, you can witness a variety of fish, corals and other sea life.

Shark Diving

If you're looking for a more extreme underwater experience, shark diving at Sangat Island is the adventure for you. This activity is for advanced divers who are prepared for the thrill that comes with diving with the reef sharks that live here.

With the guidance of professional dive instructors and a full set of diving equipment, you're sure to enjoy a memorable experience.

In conclusion, visiting Sangat Island in Coron is a great way to explore the underwater beauty that the Philippines’ untouched oceans offer. Whether you're a deep-water scuba diver or a snorkeler, Sangat Island offers an array of underwater wildlife, shipwrecks and adventures that will make your heart beat faster.

Exploring the Charm of Paco Park

A Historic Recreational Garden in Manila

Are you looking for a peaceful escape in the middle of Manila's bustling city life? Look no further than Paco Park, a historic recreational garden with rich Spanish colonial roots. In this beginner's guide, we'll take a closer look at the fascinating history and highlights of Paco Park.

History of Paco Park

Paco Park was originally known as the Cementerio General de Dilao during the Spanish colonial period. It served as Manila's municipal cemetery for Spanish officials, aristocrats and members of religious orders, including the Dominicans. Much later, it was converted into a public park under the National Parks Development Committee.

Today, the park is a popular spot for weddings, outdoor concerts and weekend picnics. You can find it along General Luna Street and Padre Faura Street in Paco, Manila.

Architecture and Design

The park's most notable feature is its circular, mortared brick walls, which were designed to surround the cemetery's graves and mausoleums. In the center of the park, visitors can find a small Roman Catholic chapel, St. Pancratius, which has been closed to the public in recent years.

In more recent history, the park has undergone a transformation led by landscape architect Ildefonso P. Santos Jr. He transformed Paco Park into a charming and peaceful garden, while still maintaining its historical importance.

Scenic Beauty

Paco Park's serene gardens offer a picturesque escape from the busy streets outside. Filled with lush greenery, stone walkways and elegant fountains, the park is a beautiful example of the Philippines' Spanish colonial past.

On a sunny day, visitors can relax on the grassy knolls, rent a boat on the park’s inner pond or take a more peaceful stroll. This makes it a perfect spot for a picnic with friends and family, or just simply to book up on some quite time.

Activities in Paco Park

Aside from its scenic beauty, Paco Park offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities. Visitors can take part in a relaxing yoga class or even join in on ballroom dancing every weekend.

The park is also home to a number of interesting events throughout the year, including concerts and cultural festivals. These events are a chance to experience the best of Philippine culture and enjoy local food and music.

Paco Park's Role In Philippine History

Paco Park is not just a pretty garden, however. It has played an important role in Philippine history. It served as a hideout for Philippine National Hero, Jose Rizal's remains, after his execution at Bagumbayan (now known as Luneta Park) in 1896.

Today, visitors can pay homage to Rizal and many other historical Filipino figures with the addition of an impressive muralist piece that surround the park's walls.

Visiting Paco Park

Looking for a quaint and peaceful escape in Manila? Paco Park might be the perfect solution. There's no entrance fee, making it accessible for everyone. It's open from the morning until the late evening, seven days a week. As a beginner, it's advised to visit during the weekdays in order to avoid the crowds and ensure you experience the peace the park is all about.

Hence, if you're planning to visit Manila or you’re a local, Paco Park should be on your list of places to visit. Don't miss out on the opportunity to appreciate its historical significance and scenic beauty.

Cuatro Islas: Island Hopping Adventures in the Untouched Paradise of Leyte.

Cuatro Islas is a group of islands located off the coast of the municipalities of Inopacan and Hindang in the province of Leyte, Philippines. Composed of four islands, Apid, Digyo, Mahaba, and Himokilan, this place offers a pristine and picturesque escape to those who seek to unwind, relax and connect with nature.

If you're planning to visit this paradise, here's a beginner's guide on what to expect.

Getting There

To reach Cuatro Islas, the best way is to take a flight to Tacloban City in Leyte. From there, you can ride a bus or a van going to Inopacan or Hindang. Once you reach any of these municipalities, you can hire a boat that will take you to the islands. The boat ride is around 15 to 20 minutes, with a fee of Php 2,500 for a round trip good for a group of up to 5.

Island Hopping

Once you've reached Cuatro Islas, the best thing to do is to go island hopping. You can start with the most popular island, Digyo. It's a small island surrounded by crystal clear waters, palm trees, and white sands. You can have a picnic, swim, snorkel or simply relax on its pristine beach.

From Digyo, you can move on to another island called Apid. Unlike Digyo, Apid is rocky with fewer palm trees. But what it lacks in vegetation, it makes up for in marine ecosystems. The island is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, where you can explore its rich coral reefs.

Mahaba and Himokilan are the two other islands part of Cuatro Islas. Mahaba boasts of a long stretch of white sand beach, while Himokilan is known for its rugged terrain. Because it's less popular, you can have the whole beach to yourself in Mahaba or explore the hinterlands in Himokilan.

Things to Bring

Before going to Cuatro Islas, make sure to bring your essentials. Some things that you should bring are:

1. Sunblock - to protect your skin from the sun.

2. Sunglasses and a hat - to protect your eyes and head from the sun rays.

3. A towel - to wipe off the saltwater or to sunbathe.

4. Swimwear - don't forget to bring your swimsuit or trunks.

5. Snorkeling gear - if you want to explore its diverse marine life.

Where to Stay

If you're planning to stay overnight, you can look for accommodations in Inopacan or Hindang. A popular place for tourists near Cuatro Islas is the Cocogrove Resort in Hindang. They offer basic rooms with airconditioning and hot and cold showers. They also have a restaurant where you can enjoy your meals while looking at the view of Cuatro Islas.

Another option is to camp on any of the four islands. You can bring your camping gear or rent from the locals. Just make sure to ask permission from the barangay or island caretakers before camping.

Respect the Environment

Lastly, always remember to respect the environment. Cuatro Islas is a protected area, and its beauty relies heavily on the preservation of its natural resources. Avoid littering and picking up anything that can harm the environment. You can also ask for eco-tips from the locals, who are mostly fishermen, to learn more about the marine conservation efforts in the area.

In conclusion, Cuatro Islas is an excellent destination to escape the city's hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature. Its pristine beaches, rich marine life, and laidback ambiance make it a picture-perfect getaway for everyone. Go ahead, book your trip to this paradise, and enjoy your island adventure!