Patar Beach in Bolinao

Bolinao is located in the western portion of Pangasinan on the northernmost part of Luzon. Bolinao Beach, particularly on the coast of Patar boast of with it's white cream sand, clear water and huge tidal waves suitable for complete summer getaway ideal for surfing, snorkeling and swimming.

Bolinao is not only limited to great beach, there are also there different places of interest that you can visit among which are: caves, falls, rock formation and of course the icon of Bolinao - the Patar Light House that stood more than a century of existence.

How to Get There:

1.) Take a bus bound to Bolinao (FiveStar), they have terminals in Cubao and Pasay.

2.) Once in Bolinao, you can then ride a trike bound to Patar Beach.

Matabungkay Beach

Located in the municipality of Lian, Batangas 120 kms. from Manila (2-3 hours depending on the traffic) facing South China Sea or what we call The Philippine Sea, Matabungkay Beach is known for white sand, pristine clear water- teaming up with various marine and aquatic life e.g. sea urchin, starfish, coral reef, sea weeds to name a few. Making it one of the most popular and accessible destination from Manila during summer.

How to Get There:

1.) Take a bus bound to Nasugbu, Batangas (DLTB), their terminal is in LRT Buendia.
2.) Tell the conductor to drop you off in Lian Poblacion.
3.) You can then ride a Jeepney bound to Matabungkay

Tagaytay Scenic View

One of the most popular summer destination in the Philippines, perhaps second to Baguio City. Tagaytay has an altitude of 2000ft above sea level. The scenic view overlooks Taal Lake and Taal Volcano Island which is viewable from several vantage points in the city.

Due to it's close proximity to Manila, it has become a popular vacation getaway not only during summer but all year round. Among the most popular attractions are: Picnic Grove (which includes: zip line, cable car, Taal Lake view, souvenir shops), Palace in the Sky, Mushroom Burger and the newly added Sky Ranch (there is an entry fee so I opted to just take pictures from afar).

Although Bulalo is originally from Batangas, you can still enjoy the world renowned Bulalo soup in Tagaytay with many restos to choose from.

How to Get There:

1.) Ride a bus bound to Tagaytay, tell the conductor to drop you off in Olivares Terminal (that's where the terminal of public tranport bound for Picnic Grove and People's Park are located).

2.) If you are planning to go to Sky Ranch tell the conductor to drop you off in Sky Ranch.

Rizal Park (Luneta) Walk In The Park

Rizal Park, also known as Luneta plays a pivotal part in Philippine history. A historical landmark that witnessed the execution of notable patriots e.g. GOMBURZA (Gomez, Burgos and Zamora) and of course Dr. Jose Rizal to which  the park was named.

It offers a serene and a relaxing place to unwind in the metro, Rizal Park will always be included in the top ten parks in the country. Inside the park you'll also find some places of interests like the Chinese Garden, The Orchidarium, Artists Haven, Heroes Biography, Statue of Lapu Lapu and of course the famous Rizal Monument, guarded by two Marines 24/7. Rizal Monument is also known as Kilometer Zero (the zero mark or the starting point of every kilometer post in Luzon). There are available Kalesa (horse drawn chariots) to give a tour inside the park.

How to Get There:

1.) From LRT Buendia ride a jeepney bound to Quiapo (w/ Luneta) on the signboard

2.) Tell the driver to drop you off in in Luneta

Bumbungan Falls and Eco Park

After revisiting Pagsanjan Falls, the Pinoy Solo Hiker decided for a sidetrip in Bumbungan Eco Park right after Cavinti Poblacion.

It is a spillway of a Bumbungan River, the road is literally covered with the overflowing water thus creating a dramatic cascade of a man made falls known as the Bumbungan Falls. Picnic huts were built beside the river ideal for picnics and outing.

How to Get There:

1.) Take a bus bound to Sta. Cruz (DLTB), they have terminals in Cubao and LRT Buendia 

2.) Tell the conductor to drop you off in Pagsawitan.

3.) Once in Pagsawitan, you can then ride a jeep bound to Cavinti. From Cavinti Junction you can then ride a trike to Bumbungan Eco Park (ideal only for sidetrip, not the main trip)

Manila Auto Show

Deep in the metro, a special event was held last April for car and automobile enthusiasts "The Manila Autoshow" held in World Trade Center. Thousands were in attendance to witness the grandest display of cars and all sorts of automobiles. The Pinoy Solo Traveler together with his friends paid a visit to the said event and we were fascinated with the show. The fiercest looking, toughest, customized and retro cars was enough to complete your day,  the exhibit also displayed even trucks, jeepney - that was customized to look like a "Transformer" - customized to suit the owner's automobile preferences.

Cruise The Manila Bay

Manila Bay is a harbour that serves the port of Manila which is located in the capital city of the Philippines. History textbooks during my grade school years always points to Manila Bay as one of the best place to view the sunset wherein it highlights the artistic and picturesque view.

For only 150 pesos you can cruise the Manila Bay for 15 minutes. It is 150 pesos per head which I believe is quite expensive.

It is a good thing that there are also Fireworks display held during Saturdays at MOA seaside.

Special Notes:

Fireworks display are held every Saturday between 6:45 to 7:00pm