Travel Archives - Page 6 of 16 - Mindanaoan - Multi awarded CDO and New York Lifestyle Blog

Mar162015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Enchanted River Surigao del Sur travel guide

Caraga, Features, Leisure, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Resorts, Surigao, Surigao del Sur, Tourism, Travel

Yes, the rumors are true. The Enchanted River is truly a breathtaking sight. The Enchanted River, also called the Hinatuan River, is testament to Mother Nature's awesome glory. You can't help but be at a loss for words when you see this majestic river that has crystal clear water and a riverbed that seems to be an abyss. The truly enchanting Hinatuan River is located in Barangay Cambatong, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, Mindanao, Philippines. It flows through Hinatuan Bay, which is about half a kilometer away. Interestingly, though, it's not clear if the water at the Enchanted River comes from the sea or if it emanates from a spring. I wonder if there really is a definite answer. Enchanted River is THIS gorgeous. No photo editing needed! Due to the increasing number of Enchanted R...

Mar122015 by Mindanaoan Irene14 Comments

Dahilayan Adventure Park opens highest base jump tower in Bukidnon

Bukidnon, Entertainment, Features, Leisure, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao, Society, Tourism, Travel

Dahilayan Adventure Park in Bukidnon is at it again! After introducing Asia's longest dual cable zipline, Dahilayan has now opened the Skytower Base Jump, the Philippines' tallest parajump platform. How high is the base jump tower? Oh, just 8 storeys high! Basejumpers will be fitted with safety harnesses and a helmet and will need to walk along a see-thru plank. Then, the moment of truth. Once you jump, you will experience free fall (pretty quick, don't worry), then gradual descent and finally slow landing. All these in less than 10 seconds. Check out these photos taken by Engr. Elpie Paras, the owner of Dahilayan and PARASAT Cable TV: I've tried all of the rides at Dahilayan Adventure Park so I can really say that they're all safe. All of the personnel are also courteous ...

Feb222015 by Mindanaoan Irene4 Comments

I Am Again A Newspaper Columnist

Announcements, Beauty, BIMP-EAGA, Bisaya, Blogging, Entertainment, Events, Features, Headline, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Society, Style, Tourism, Travel

Very, very thrilled to share that I am (again) a newspaper columnist! Starting February 20, 2015, I will be one of the columnists at Gold Star Daily, Mindanao's largest newspaper. I have named my column "Mindanaoan Meets World" as I plan to write about lifestyle, music, a little bit of politics and showbiz and travel not only within the Philippines but around the world, too! My first stint as newspaper correspondent, columnist and part-time editor started way, way back. Like eons of light years ago haha! But life happened, I took a career detour and eventually, was already happy and contented to just work with the traditional media practitioners instead :) With this new development, though, I guess this is not only trying my hand again at writing for a daily newspaper but also my way of...

Feb82015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Insadong Seoul

Culture, Features, Food, Korea, Mindanaoan Update, Seoul, Tourism, Travel

Insadong was one of my favorite places during our Seoul, South Korea trip. Also known as Seoul's culture street, Insadong has so many shops selling traditional Korean goods, teas, candies, street food, wooden cooking utensils, crafts, staple food like bottled kimchi and roasted nori sheets (yum!) and souvenirs such as hanbok and hanji. Although there's a main street in Insadong (no vehicles allowed here), don't hesitate to explore the inner streets. There are small but nice tea houses and restaurants that have "English OK" signs (meaning their servers can speak English :) ) along alleyways. Insadong is a safe place to "get lost in." Just go back to the main street and you'll be fine ;) How to get to Insadong: My brother and I took the subway. We rode Seoul Subway Line 3 then took ...

Feb32015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Breathtaking Gyeongbukgung Palace Seoul

Arts, Culture, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Seoul, Tourism, Travel

Built in 1395, the Gyeongbukgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea used to be the seat of power. Also known as Gyeongbok Palace, this palace was made during the Joseon Dynasty and is perhaps the most popular among the 5 palaces in Seoul. Just like what happened when we visited Changdeokgung Palace, we didn't have to pay for the entrance fee. It was Chuseok Festival time (autumn harvest holiday, Seoul's biggest holiday) and all entrance fees to palaces were waived. Spotted these little girls in their hanboks. This is the Keunjeong-jeon. This used to be the royal throne hall and as such, top officials then conducted state affairs here. This is Korea’s largest surviving wooden structure. Inside the Keunjeong-jeon We also caught the changing of the...

Feb32015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Changdeokgung Palace

Arts, Culture, Features, Festivals, Fiesta, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Photos, Seoul, Tourism, Travel

Changdeokgung Palace, a 600-year old UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the very first palace we visited in Seoul, South Korea. Changdeokgung Palace is one of the "Five Grand Palaces" built by the Joseon Dynasty kings. Located at Jongno-gu district, this is a beautiful palace complex to roam around in and take photos of. We picked a good day to visit this Seoul palace. It was Chuseok Festival, Seoul's biggest festival, and entrance fees to all palaces were waived. This is the Injeongjeon (Main Hall) These seemingly stone markers were placed so that officials knew where to stand. The premises are very well-kept and well-maintained, as you can see in the photos. I can already imagine how pretty this area would be during fall or...

Feb22015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Scenes in vibrant Hongdae Seoul

Fashion, Features, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Photos, Seoul, Tourism, Travel

Hongdae is a busy and very vibrant area in Seoul, South Korea. Known for its numerous cafes, clubs and shops, Hongdae is undoubtedly one of Seoul's must-visit areas especially if you like to immerse yourself in Korean urban culture, music, fashion and arts. Hongdae is actually the Korean abbreviation of Hongik University (Hong-ik Dae-hak-kyo), which is best known for its Fine Arts and Design programs. When in Hongdae, you can't miss the Hongik University rectangular arch. I consider Hongdae as one of those places that you simply can't stop taking photographs of. There's just so much to get inspiration from, so much to see, so much to hear and so many things you want to try! And, if you're curious or interested about anything Korea, you will enjoy Hongdae. Th...

Feb22015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Hello Kitty Cafe and Cats Living Cat Cafe Hongdae

Features, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Society, Tourism, Travel

The first shopping district we went to in Seoul, Korea was Hongdae. It's the area where Hongik University is (best known for their Fine Arts and Design programs) and where lots and lots of shops, cafes and clubs are (presumably because it's near a popular university). Click this for more of our Hongdae exploration. One of our discoveries in Hongdae was the infamous Hello Kitty Cafe. (UPDATE: as of November 2014, they're now in a new location, see below) I placed the Hello Kitty Cafe as one of the tourist attractions in Hongdae on my kodigo (cheat sheet) i.e. our TripCase travel app. It wasn't easy to spot, though. It was located in one of the inner streets. New location of Hello Kitty Cafe: (map nicked from their official website) Anyway, a stone's throw away from the ...

Feb12015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Seoul City Hall

Government, Korea, Leisure, Seoul, Tourism, Travel

The Seoul Korea City Hall is one of the world's eco and energy efficient buildings. It's also a pretty cool building to look at! Just check out the photos I took of the Seoul City Hall. Located at Taepyeongno, Jung-gu, which is basically the heart of Seoul, the City Hall is right across the Deoksugung Palace and just a few minutes away on foot from the Cheonggyecheon Stream. How to get to Seoul City Hall: Take Seoul Subway Line 1, 2 to reach City Hall Station. Take Exit 2. Found this cute little thing on the right side of the City Hall :) Want to follow more of my Korea trip? Click on Mindanaoan In Korea How to apply for a Korean tourist visa Very helpful Seoul, Korea Travel Tips Cheonggyecheon Stream Deoksugung Palace Changing Of Guards More Korea post...

Feb12015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Lotte Mart Seoul

Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Shopping, Tourism, Travel

Lotte Mart in Seoul, Korea sits on a pretty huge complex. Considered as a hypermarket, Lotte Mart is where you can buy groceries, toys, clothes, electronics and lots of other goods. My brother and I weren't there to shop, though. We went to Lotte Mart to EAT! (and take photos, of course!) The Lotte Outlets is in a building right beside Lotte Mart Should you decide to shop, by the way, and your purchase has reached at least 30,000 KRW (Korean won - roughly US $30.00), you are entitled to Lotte Mart's tax refund service. Before you leave, bring all of your receipts to the tax refund counter at Level 1. We went to the supermarket area. Found this food court. Yum! Lotte Mart Seoul Station 122, 2-ka Bongrae-dong, Seoul, South Korea Store hours: 10 AM to 12 m...

Jan312015 by Mindanaoan Irene2 Comments

Behold the majestic Mangima Canyon in Bukidnon

Bukidnon, Mindanaoan Update, Tourism, Travel

Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon may be usually known for Dahilayan Adventure Park and Del Monte Golf and Country Club (home of really good steaks and bottomless Del Monte juice!) but this Bukidnon town is actually also home to something truly GRAND - the Mangima Canyon. Took the photos of below from the Sitio Angeles view deck. This is in between Barangay Dalirig and Maluko. If you have extra time, you can stay here for a bit, relax and enjoy the scenery. There are a couple of huts with benches made out of steel road barriers. UPDATE: These photos show the Maluko Canyon. The Mangima Canyon can be viewed only in part. Thanks Miss Gina for the info. This is truly a breathtaking view. The Mangima Canyon is incredibly beautiful. You must visit Bukidnon soon :) Want to rent a van t...

Jan292015 by Mindanaoan Irene7 Comments

Lovely Lake Mainit in Mindanao Philippines – Why You Need To Visit

Agusan del Norte, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Photos, Resorts, Surigao, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Tourism, Travel

Lake Mainit is great proof why Mindanao, Philippines is the land of promise. To say that Lake Mainit is breathtaking is actually an understatement. The beauty of Lake Mainit is arresting. It takes you aback. This lovely lake makes you remember just how beautiful life is. It makes you feel grateful. Lake Mainit, which is actually the deepest lake in the Philippines, is "shared" by the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte. It plays a vital role in commerce, trade and eco-tourism ventures for both provinces. There are a total of 31 lakeshore barangays around this body of water and you can have good views of the lake from the municipalities of Mainit, Alegria, Jabonga and Kitcharao. Took these photos of Lake Mainit from Mainit town. Pardon the quality - only used my phone ...

Jan282015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Review: Park Inn Radisson Davao hotel

Davao City, Davao del Sur, Features, Hotels, Mindanaoan Update, Reviews, Tourism, Travel

Perhaps two of the advantages of staying at Park Inn by Radisson Davao are the facts that this Davao hotel is right behind SM Lanang Premiere Mall (which houses the SMX Convention Center) and that it's roughly 15 minutes away from Davao International Airport. Hence, if you want extra minutes of sleep before heading to the airport or if you want to catch a movie or shop, then Park Inn Davao is the ideal hotel for you. I stayed at this business hotel in Davao when I was invited to cover the BIMP-EAGA International Business Leaders Conference. Although I was there for work, I truly had restful nights. I mean, really, who wouldn't have comfortable sleep when you get a bed like this? Comfortable bed - check. Clean sheets - check. Soft pillows - check! My room came with a lo...

Jan232015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

PHOTOS: Giant Philippine Eagle along BuDa (Bukidnon-Davao border)

Arts, Bukidnon, Culture, Davao City, Mindanaoan Update, Tourism, Travel

Traversing the Bukidnon - Davao (BuDa) highway? If you're entering or leaving Davao City via Bukidnon, you might want to watch out for really cool sculptures at Barangay Baganihan, Marilog District, Davao. This huge Philippine Eagle sculpture, crafted by Cotabato-born, fellow Mindanaoan Kublai Millan, is a sight to behold. Just a few steps away from the Philippine Eagle sculpture, there are also sculptures of Mindanao tribesmen and children. The sculptures are reminiscent of the yearly Kadayawan Festival. There's also a "Welcome to Davao" sign :) There is no entrance fee and there are no other fees here. There may be locals who will sell you native handicrafts, though :) I bought some bracelets (Php 10.00 each only!). Nice way to help support the local community. ...

Jan152015 by Mindanaoan Irene135 Comments

How to apply and renew your Philippine passport at DFA Centrio CDO

Cagayan de Oro City, Government, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao, Tourism, Travel

A couple of things have changed since I last renewed my Philippine passport at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Cagayan de Oro or DFA CDO. Apart from the fact that DFA CDO has now transferred from Limketkai Center to Ayala Centrio Mall, there isn't any need to call their office for an appointment (IT IS NOW REQUIRED TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT...scroll down to find out how) there are now lesser requirements and lesser wait time. Allow me to share with you my experience on how to renew your passport at DFA Centrio CDO. Centrio Mall is located at Corrales Avenue corner CM Recto Avenue. Please scroll down for a MAP and helpful travel instructions. DFA Centrio Ayala is located at the 3rd Floor. DFA Centrio Office hours: Monday to Friday - 10 AM to 7 PM and Saturday - 10 AM to 6 ...

Jan42015 by Mindanaoan Irene6 Comments

Php 250 Million Seven Seas Waterpark in Opol, Misamis Oriental

Announcements, Business, Consumer, Entertainment, Features, Leisure, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao, Tourism, Travel

Mindanao is again setting the bar in terms of tourism. A world-class waterpark will soon open in this Southern part of the Philippines! When finished, the Php 250 Million Seven Seas Waterpark will, undoubtedly, be Mindanao's biggest tourism attraction in recent years. Seven Seas Waterpark and Resort, located at Barangay Barra, Opol, Misamis Oriental, is owned by businessman Elpidio Paras of Dahilayan Adventure Park and PARASAT Cable TV fame. In an aerial shot shared by Sir Elpie himself, you can see that the water park facility will be set on a 5 hectare piece of land. Construction of the buildings and pool infrastructure will start on the first quarter of 2015. Seven Seas Water Park and Resort is seen to be completed by the second quarter of 2016. * Photo courtesy of Sir Elpie P...

Dec32014 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

G Rafting CDO offers FREE photos and GoPro video

Cagayan de Oro City, Features, Leisure, Mindanao, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao, Society, Tourism, Travel

Now there's more reason for you to visit Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon! G Rafting, also known as Golden Friendship Rafting, has just released their unbeatable adventure packages! These G Rafting CDO packages allow you to experience the thrill of conquering the CDO white water river rapids and all the rides (including the famous Asia's longest dual cable zipline) at Dahilayan Adventure Park, Bukidnon. Golden Friendship Rafting Cagayan de Oro offers two value for money packages: Package A - Basic river rafting (14 rapids) with FREE photos and video taken with a GoPro - Ride all ziplines at Dahilayan Adventure Park, Luge Ride, Forest Putt and Hanging Bridge at Dahilayan Forest Park - Php 1,899.00 per person (minimum of 10) Package B - Basic river rafting with FREE photos and ...

Oct212014 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea travel series: Cheonggyecheon Stream

Blogging, Features, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Musings, Personal, Travel

After visiting Deoksugung Palace and witnessing the changing of the royal guards ceremony, my brother and I then proceeded to Cheonggyecheong Stream, an 8.4 kilometer long stream that flows west to east through downtown Seoul. What used to be a neglected overpass in the 70's was restored as a massive urban renewal project worth $900 Million in 2005 and is now one of the popular tourist destinations in Seoul, South Korea. Actually, even locals love hanging out here as well. From Deoksugung Palace, we walked for about 250 meters to Cheonggyecheong Stream. If you're at Deoksugung Palace facing the Seoul City Hall, Cheonggyecheong Stream is on your left. Just go straight and look for Chongye Plaza or this cone/shell sculpture. This signifies that you're at the mouth of the stream :) ...

Oct212014 by Mindanaoan Irene2 Comments

Mindanaoan In Korea travel series: Deoksugung Palace changing of guards

Blogging, Features, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Personal, Seoul, Travel

Since we arrived late in the evening in Seoul, Korea, my brother and I decided to start the first day of our Korea escapade a little late as well. First order of the day was go to the nearest subway station and buy a T-Money card. As I mentioned in my earlier Seoul, Korea travel tips post, T-Money is a "reloadable" card that you can use to buy subway tickets, bus fares or even to buy stuff at convenience stores. After buying our T-Money card, we took the train to go to Deoksugung Palace, one of the "5 Grand Palaces" built by the kings of Joseon Dynasty. How to get to Deoksugung Palace: Take Seoul Subway Line 1, 2 to reach City Hall Station. Take Exit 2. You will see scenes like these: Walk for about 100 meters to your left. A good landmark is a Dunkin' Donuts store (th...

Oct122014 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Camiguin Lanzones Festival 2014 schedule of activities

Announcements, Camiguin, Entertainment, Events, Festivals, Fiesta, Leisure, Tourism, Travel

October is the BEST time for you to visit Camiguin Island a.k.a. the island of your imagination, the Island Born Of Fire here in Mindanao, Philippines! Camiguin Island celebrates its annual Lanzones Festival every October - it's a festival that celebrates the bountiful harvest of sweet, fleshly lanzones fruits that the island is best known for. Mark your calendars from October 18 to 26, 2014. The Camiguin Lanzones Festival 2014 schedule of activities can be found below. Highlights of the 2014 Camiguin Lanzones Festival include: October 18 - Walk For A Cause, 4:30 AM, San Nicholas de Tolentino Parish Church October 19 - Grand Opening Ceremonies (Exhibits), 2 PM, PPR Tourism and Sports Complex 7:30 PM, opening night and Mutya ng Buahanan evening gown competition 10 PM Oktob...

Oct92014 by Mindanaoan Irene3 Comments

Mindanaoan In Korea travel series: Seoul travel tips

Blogging, Entertainment, Features, Flights, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Musings, Seoul, Shopping, Society, Tourism, Travel

So before I really get down to business with my Mindanaoan in Korea travel series, please allow me to share a few travel tips and tricks that you may find helpful when you travel to Seoul, Korea. I like to be well-prepared whenever I travel and hopefully, these Seoul travel tips can help you, too. 1. Do you already have a valid visa for travel to Korea? Here's how I applied for a Korean tourist visa 2. Check the weather in Korea at the time of your trip. This way, you can bring proper clothes. 3. I suggest that you bring U.S. Dollars (instead of Philippine pesos) and have those changed to Korean won. The exchange rates at the Incheon International Airport are fair but I got the best exchange rates in Myeongdong, the famed shopping district in Seoul. Here's a handy tip: 1,000 KRW i...

Oct62014 by Mindanaoan Irene10 Comments

How to apply for a Korean visa – requirements for Filipino tourists

Features, Flights, Government, Headline, Korea, Leisure, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Musings, Society, Tourism, Travel

When my friends and relatives first learned that I was set to visit Korea, all of them got really excited. Can't blame them as Korea is one of the favorite travel destinations of many Filipinos these days, thanks to the ever growing popularity of K-Pop, Koreanovelas and continuous visits to the Philippines by popular Korean celebrities. As of this writing, Filipinos still need a visa to enter Korea. Filipino tourists who intend to stay for 59 days or less can apply for a Korean tourist visa FOR FREE. The thing is, though, you must apply at the Korean embassy in Manila for you to avail of the FREE South Korea tourist visa. For people outside Metro Manila (like me and my brother!), the cheaper option is to have an accredited travel agency fix our applications. In our case, since our fligh...