Surviving the Chocolate Hills Adventure Park challenge

The last stop of our whole-day countryside tour was a visit to the Chocolate Hills Adventure Park (CHAP). Since the original view deck has been damaged by the earthquake in October, tourists are instead brought to this new establishment in Carmen, Bohol.

Welcome to Chocolate Hills Adventure Park (CHAP).

To get a breathtaking view of the famous chocolates hills of the province, you need to climb 248 steps to get to the CHAP’s view point. But it’s worth the sweat when you get to see the sweeping panorama of grass-covered hills.

248 steps. Let's do this!

Easy!

The hills are alive.

You can also see the original view deck from the CHAP view deck. It's not as high as the original but the view is breathtaking nonetheless.

The original view deck (top, extreme left) as seen from the CHAP view deck.

This writer at the CHAP view deck.

It’s also up there that you can experience the CHAP Bike Zip. It’s basically riding a bicycle in the sky—suspended 100 ft from the ground! The Bike Zip is 275 meters per way so just imagine the thrill and chills you get when you’re up there. You get to bike from one chocolate hill to another.

Unfortunately, it was raining at the time of our visit so we were not given the green light to try the Bike Zip.

Are you game?
Photo courtesy of the park's Facebook page

But the Bike Zip is only the appetizer. Down the view deck is the 9-course adventure trail that four of us from the Bohol media team (Inquirer's Walter Villa, DZRH's Ruth Abao and boyfriend Jon) tried to conquer. The course became even more challenging because the rain would not stop pouring down. Hence, the slippery steps in all nine courses.

Thanks to Walter Villa’s GoPro camera, we have proof that, yes, we completed all nine courses to join the elite circle of only a few people who finished this adventure. 

And oh, I am proud to say that the staff told me I AM THE FIRST FILIPINA TO COMPLETE THE CHALLENGING NINE COURSES AT THE CHOCOLATE HILLS ADVENTURE PARK (CHAP)!!!

These are the nine courses that tested our strength, endurance, strategy and most of all, patience:

1. Hanging Bridge (2 stages)

2. Islands in the Sky

3. Burma Loops

4. Burma Planks

5. Earthquake

6. Vine Walk

7. Jacob’s Walk

8. Tyrolean

9. Zipline

The last two courses are actually a combination of zipline and tyrolean. You only get to zipline on half of the course and then you do the tyrolean traverse for the rest of the course. Leaving the course is as adventurous as you rappel your way down.

The park also features a restaurant, souvenir shop, events place (there was a wedding reception going on when we were there), pockets gardens, and serpentarium.

Pathway to the restaurant and souvenir shop (to the left) and events place (to the right).

Souvenirs, anyone?

Viewing deck, straight ahead. Serpentarium, turn left.

The place was not yet fully operational when we were there. But it has already been visited by tourists, including America’s Next Top Model winner Sophie Sumners (who wasn't able to finish the course because she's afraid of heights). I believe CHAP is now open to the public. Check out details here.

Bluewater Panglao Resort: Giving Bohol tourism a boost

Bohol, the 10th largest island in the country, has been a slice of heaven on earth for local and foreign tourists alike. In recent years, the province has been one of the most-visited destinations in the Philippines. With plenty of things to do and places to see, Bohol has continued to beckon travelers to experience its natural and man-made wonders.

However, it is not a secret to many that Bohol has been experiencing challenges in the last two years. According to Walter Sultan, vice chairman of the Bohol Provincial Tourism Council, the province was brought down to its knees when it experienced a double whammy of an earthquake and a super typhoon late last year. Sultan adds that the one-aircraft policy in the Tagbilaran airport implemented in 2012 has also decreased number of flights from 14 a day to just seven, which significantly reduced tourist arrivals by 15 to 20 percent.

Bring this home and show your support for Bohol. 

 Here’s the good news: a tourism recovery plan has already been mapped out. “One of the important activities of our tourism recovery plan is improving our airline access. An international airport in Panglao is already underway and will be operational by 2016. In the meantime, we plan to expand the Tagbilaran airport to accommodate more tourists,” says Sultan. “We also have the Bangon Tours and we’re looking at coming up with a geological and scientific tour that will involve the areas affected by the earthquake.”

Heeding to the call of the local provincial tourism council, Bluewater Panglao Resort has been offering the Bangon Tours (“Bangon” is the Filipino word for “to rise”) since last year to encourage more tourists to come to Bohol.

Bluewater Panglao Resort resident manager Edison Navasa.

“The Panglao property of Bluewater Resorts is very active in helping boost tourism in Bohol,” says Edison Navasa, resident manager of Bluewater Panglao Resort. “The Bangon Tours package features discounted room rates, more or less 40 percent off of published rates. These are special rates to lure more people to choose Bohol for their next trip. And the response was overwhelming!”

Bluewater Panglao Resort features local materials in its design. 

Navasa says that guest profile at the resort is still dominated by Koreans, followed by Japanese, Filipinos and other nationalities. “It’s a good mix. About 30 to 35 percent of our guests are Koreans. Based on feedback, our guests love that there are a lot of activities that they can do in the resort,” says Navasa. “That’s our goal: to add more activities in our 5.5-hectare property so that our guests will truly enjoy their stay here and make the most of their vacation. We have two swimming pools and a beach front where our guests can enjoy water activities like snorkeling, glass bottom boat, kayaking, diving, hobbie cat sailing and stand up paddle boarding."

The signature ube dessert, featuring Panglao's proud product.

The resort also arranges for countryside and island hopping tours to allow guests to experience the sights and sceneries of Bohol. Although most of the churches are still under construction, one can still see past through the cracks the charm of these century-old churches. Most roads have already been repaired, proving that Bohol has slowly gotten back to its good shape.

A myriad of activities at the resort. 

Bluewater Panglao Resort invites tourists to rediscover the province because “Bohol is still beautiful” despite the disasters last year. For one, the resort offers a luxurious escape that honors the island’s natural beauty. Its Filipino architecture and design complement Bohol’s culture, inherent warm hospitality, and eco-focused initiatives. The Panglao resort, the youngest of the Bluewater Resorts siblings (that include Bluewater Maribago and Bluewater Sumilon, both in Cebu) aims to showcase local beauty through its structure, rooms, food, and services.

Despite the disasters last year, the resort never lost its charm. Its elegant, innovative and functional designs remain to be one of Panglao’s best.

Baclayon Church post-earthquake.

Loboc River Cruise. 

The media fam tour group poses for a photo before saying goodbye to the resort.

“Although there were some cancellations and rebooking, we are positive that the growth we have experienced since December will continue, especially that it’s already the peak season,” says Navasa. “It’s not difficult to sell Bohol because the place has already established itself as one of the Philippines’ most beautiful. And when you’re in Bohol, stay at Bluewater Panglao and we promise to show you the beauty of the province.”

(Published March 24, 2014, The Philippine Star)

Alegre Beach Resort: Haven of happiness

This article was published on February 21, 2006 in The Philippine Star. It was this writer's first time in Cebu. Our media group stayed in the beautiful Alegre Beach Resort in Sogod, Cebu. Alegre, which means "happiness" in Spanish, provided us with nothing but bliss during our stay there. The cabaña alone was enough to make your vacation a memorable one. Featuring Filipino-Spanish designs, it boasts of oversized bathroom that women travelers like myself would surely delight in. One of the highlights of this trip was my first time to ride a jet ski and kayak. I was too excited that I ignored the threat of huge waves during that time. Can you imagine a little girl trying to make her way against the gigantic waves? Okay, not a good one. But well, I did survive to tell my story of Alegre Beach Resort. Enjoy!

Haven of happiness

If Ferdinand Magellan landed in the northeastern coast of Cebu in 1521 and not on the island where Lapu-Lapu reigned supreme, he could have survived an untimely death. Much more, he could have enjoyed the convivial setting of sun, sea and sand in the charming town of Sogod.

Sogod is famous for Alegre Beach Resort, a five-star, multi-awarded (including Department of Tourism's 1996 Kalakbay Best Resort of the Year) island resort in Cebu, the Queen City of the South. The 14-year-old resort, though secluded from the rest of the town, is easily accessible to those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. A 90-minute coaster ride from the Mactan International Airport offers a view of the interesting history of the bustling city through its stone houses and old Spanish churches. (Our media group was also given the chance to hear Mass at the recently built Church of Our Lady of Manaoag and marvel at the Rosary Center and Catmon's San Guillermo Church). A panoramic scenery of hills, fields and trees stages a stunning welcome. All these and more create a surreal atmosphere for visitors of Alegre Beach Resort.

Alegre Beach Resort in Sogod, Cebu
All photos courtesy of www.alegrebeachresort.com

Committed to make guests' stay as grand as possible, Alegre boasts of a lovely spot — an intimate getaway replete with coconut groves, bougainvillea and hibiscus clusters and commendable private beach coves. The white, powdery sand complements the inviting blue and mirror-calm water. The breathtaking view of the sea captivates the discerning traveler. Alegre combines the comfort of modern amenities with the irresistible charm of nature detailed in the resort's lush tropical gardens.

Ah, this spot.

"We pride ourselves with the fact that nothing's artificial here in Alegre. Whatever you see here is definitely natural," said general manager Fritz Kahler during our sit-down dinner at The Pavilion Restaurant. The main dining area is adjacent to the five-foot-deep swimming pool and two kiddie pools.

Though La Niña messed up with our outdoor adventures, executive chef Martin Przewodnik provided us with a delectable feast. "He does good with whatever resources are available," exclaimed Aissa dela Cruz, Alegre Resort PR consultant, as the German chef sliced his unique gastronomic surprise — a big fish called molmol (parrotfish) wrapped in banana leaf sheath and baked in a clay oven. "Cebuanos cook what is easy and available," dela Cruz further explained.

There was never a time when we did not enjoy the resort's sumptuous fares.

Throughout our stay, chef Martin provided us with comfort food which he served either inside the air-conditioned restaurant or in al fresco balcony overseeing the turquoise blue waters of the island. Also, his original Alegre special halo-halo truly whetted our appetite.

Alegre is also one haven for relaxation. "The resort is best for honeymooners. Nonetheless, it is also a family destination," describes Andrew Delgado, the resort's guest services manager. Dining can also be as romantic as the honeymoon ambiance in the resort. Couples can share heartwarming gazes and an absolutely gastronomic experience at the Gazebo, a little corner that gives a picturesque view of Cebu sunset. This jewel of a resort gives you a taste of romantic solitude and open company with nature.

***

When mercury rises, Alegre's three wide-stretched beach coves present endless opportunities for adventure, nature appreciation and even just simple pleasures.

Enhance the dynamism of your Cebu holiday by choosing from a wide range of aqua sports. For guests with a knack for adventure, Alegre offers excellent opportunities for divers to experience the rich marine reserve that thrives in the waters of Sogod. Feel the adrenaline rush as you ride the jet ski or kayak as you brave the waves (or in our case, the gigantic waves). Snorkeling is also an option. If the weather permits, go island hopping to Calanggaman. If you're lucky enough, you might just spot a school of elusive dolphins along the way.

Jet ski, anyone?

As your energy fades down with the setting sun, what better way to ease those exhausted muscles than to pamper yourself. Guests can choose whether to lull themselves to sleep in a hammock while the sea is tranquil or take a trip to dreamland while relishing their spa treatment — either by the pristine setting of the beach or at the quiet interiors of the Alegre Spa, where they can choose from an array of rejuvenating services. The resort's signature massage — a combination of shiatsu, Thai, Javanese and the Pinoy hilot — helps to ease tired muscles and improves blood circulation. You can also pamper yourself with a revitalizing combination of a full Eastern massage, a cleansing facial and a manicure and pedicure for that perfect Alegre sampler.

The scenic landscape, crystal clear waters and relative isolation capture the hearts of most visitors to Alegre. The 40 Filipino-Spanish designed cabañas come complete with the spectacular sea view. With all the first class amenities and an elegant oversized bathroom, staying inside the cabaña makes for an excuse to snuzzle once more on your cozy comforter. All the more, clocks can hardly be found in the resort, as if to remind every guest that his or her main goal in the island is to relax and unwind.

Deluxe Ocean View with Garden.

Paul Theroux once said that a grand tour is just the inspired man's way of heading home. Well, in this trip, I just did enjoy being home (away from home). The homebody in me equates home with sheer bliss. After all, Alegre is Spanish for happiness.

***

As for Magellan, it was still fortunate he was not able to discover the marvels of Sogod, Cebu. If he did, maybe Alegre Beach Resort would be nowhere to be found today. Then, I would have not experienced another pride of Pinoy hospitality, the Cebuano way.

Club Noah Isabelle: A first in the last frontier

This article was published on October 13, 2005. Club Noah Isabelle was my very first travel assignment for The Philippine Star. It is located in Taytay in Palawan, the Philippines' last frontier. It was my first time in Palawan and my first time to board a plane in a very long time. This was a truly memorable trip because I was in total awe of the natural beauty of the resort and its surrounding islands. Talk about paradise.

Update: Club Noah Isabelle is now called El Nido Resort Apulit Island.

A first in the last frontier

Ooops. I'm no Lindsay Lohan who made her confessions on the big screen as the teen drama queen (although I sometimes tend to be). Forgive me for I have sinned (in indulging too much in this leisure). This is my first time in Palawan, the Philippines' "last frontier." My destination: Club Noah Isabelle.

It took us four transfers to get to the island resort — a 90-minute Asian Spirit flight to the Cesar Lim Rodriguez Airport (which is one unique airport where you get a view of the mountains), a short jeepney ride to bring us to the Tamisan River, a jetty ride along the Tamisan River (formerly Rio Verde) and the ferry boat ride (the 45-minute jungle river cruise where we saw virgin mangroves and were amazed with the many islands and pristine beaches along Taytay Bay).

It was almost a four-hour journey getting there. Nevertheless, it was an adventure in itself.

The resort offers many an activity — from snorkeling to diving, from island hopping to cave exploration, from kayaking to pedal boating, from fishing to wind surfing. So, it wouldn't come as a surprise that Club Noah Isabelle has been one of the top picks of couples and families who look for the best place to relax and unwind from stress, get away for a romantic weekend or experience the adventures that they've always dreamed of.

Club Noah Isabelle is a paradise in Palawan.
Photo courtesy of www.skyscrapercity.com

In this paradise, guests get a feel of going back to the essentials, which the fast-paced modern life has left behind — beauty, adventure, sustenance, harmony and romance. Staying at this paradisiacal resort is like enjoying the luxury of leisure while getting close to nature. The resort strictly implements an environment-friendly policy — true to its claim as an eco-tourism spot. The one-mile radius that the resort keeps and safeguards is teeming with dazzling denizens of the deep. We even got to swim with these underwater creatures when we had our water activities.

"We (people) claim we're the smartest, but we don't realize how much we harm nature," said Ito Tuason, the resort's public relations and planning officer.

The accommodation was simply fantabulous. Guests wouldn't miss their homes in the city once they step into one of the 30 cabañas situated over the water and connected to land by a short walkway. The veranda overlooking the Taytay Bay is an additional treat.

Accommodations in Club Noah Isabelle.

Guests who come in large numbers need not worry as family cabañas are also available. These are duplex-style split levels you need for excited children climbing up and down the stairs or for the whole barkada. There is also a stair that leads directly to the sea so you can go snorkeling whenever you feel the desire to.

In Club Noah, you never run out of activities to enjoy and delight yourself with. I tried snorkeling and scuba diving although I must admit I'm not good at these water activities. Still, the 15-ft.-depth thrilled and satisfied a diving neophyte like me. Fishing is also one relaxing activity.

I was also delighted to explore the stories of the caves. Rock formations are everywhere in the St. Joseph's Cave. The best of it is situated in front of the cave — a boulder in the form of a bearded man with a cane, which locals believe as St. Joseph. The Pabellon Cave offers an ice-cold swim in its 20-ft. "indoor pool."

St. Joseph's Cave.

Island hopping is also an option. We visited Isla Blanca (or Isla Walang Tao) and spent the rest of our snorkeling graduation there. The white sand and the clear waters were a picturesque sight to behold.

The fun never stops even when the sun already bids goodbye. To ensure that our stay will be well-remembered, the staff exerted a little more effort to surprise us with candle-lit cocktails at the open-air North Cave. It was truly a romantic experience ("This cave has already witnessed a lot of proposals," said Tuason.) when you look up and see the stars and moon above.

I climbed the 109 steps (or more) to get to the Rock Bar. At the top, you'll get to see the island on a better view and recall constellations as you gaze at the stars.

A delectable feast awaits every guest at the island resort. For shrimp addicts like me, Club Noah Isabelle gave me a delightful treat. I also enjoyed crabs and the appetizing squids. The resort also took advantage of the fresh fruits islands are known for. It took me a trip to Palawan to love the fresh watermelon shake. I must say that sumptuous food were served every meal of the day that I found it hard to decide on which one to try first.

And these food treats can be as exciting as the water activities because they can be served in different spots and many restaurants in the resort — by the beach, at the main dining area or even inside the caves!

It was a unanimous comment from the group that the resort staffers were multi-talented. Their smiles were so welcoming and to some extent contagious. I felt close to the people who were then strangers to me. We were even teary-eyed when they rendered us a song while we boarded the boat which would take us back to the airport.

Guests will surely feel so attached to the warmth and sincerity that is so Palaweño. And one more thing, no tipping policy is implemented at Club Noah Isabelle. Anyway, no need to when you deal with the sincerest people on earth.

I have always been afraid to leave home especially if I am alone. On our way back to the airport, I realized that I actually did not leave home. My stay at Club Noah Isabelle on Apulit Island, Northeastern Palawan was actually like home — the place, the people and the cuisine. Needless to say, I really enjoyed and had so much fun. As the island gradually disappeared from my sight, I felt so thankful to have spent a first in Club Noah Isabelle and hoped to be back there again.