PESCADOR ISLAND

   Cebu has been one of the most visited places in the Philippines in terms of tourism. Sites like magnificent beaches, alluring waterfalls, historical places, and fascinating islands with splendid and rich marine life attract tourists all over the globe. One of which is the Pescador Island at the south of Cebu in the municipality of Moalboal. It is an island located in the Tañon Strait, a few kilometers from the western coast of the Cebu Island.

What To See In Pescador Island

1. On a boat ride going to the island, a group of dolphins swimming with the boats is a possible sight.

2.A chance to see sea turtles is a probability, depending on the weather condition.

3. An awesome adventure swimming or diving with the famous sardine run.

4.A great experience diving or snorkeling in the beautiful marine sanctuary.

   Pescador Island is a protected marine life sanctuary. Fees going to the island is collected to help finance various conservation programs in the Municipality of Moalboal in cooperation with Moalboal Dive Center Association. Some of the programs are the patrols and enforcement to abolish destructive fishing, village improvement programs, collection and disposal of plastic and other wastes that enter the local waters, marine conservation education of village children and adults, and reef and mangrove rehabilitation.


How  to Get to Moalboal

From Cebu City

From the capital of the province, Moalboal is three hours drive by public bus. Librando and Ceres buses going to Moalboal are located in the South Bus Terminal of the city capital. Fare for non-aircon bus starts at P90.00 and P110.00 for aircon bus.

Meanwhile, vans that ply Cebu City to Moalboal are stationed in One Citilink Terminal, a few meters away from the South Bus Terminal. Travel time is considerably shorter at two hours, fare is P100.00.

To go to Panagsama Beach or White Beach, hire a trike or habal-habal to get you there, fare cost around P80.00 per trip.

 When visiting the island, it is best to respect nature, follow the rules. If natural conservation is being implemented, then better be a part of it to continue enjoying the beauty that the nature is giving.


-SHANIA-

             SUMILON ISLAND 

   The Island of Sumilon is located at the southeastern tip of the Municipality of Oslob in the province of Cebu. The island has an area of 24 hectares and has clear waters with varying aquamarine hues and white sand beaches in different areas of the island.

   The island is famous throughout the country and internationally for the exceptional beauty of its dive sites.The island’s diving sites are famous for their superb visibility, stunning reefs and abundance of varied tropical marine species that provide an ideal and memorable dive. There are occasional sightings of black tip sharks during dives.

There are four major dive sites on Sumilon Island:

Garden Eel Plaza
Nikk’s Wall
Coral Landscape
Julie’s Rock

   These diving sites are internationally known for their perfect visibility and a wide variety of tropical fish and marine species. If you are lucky you might spot a black tip reef shark or maybe even a whale shark cruising past.

Enjoying Sumilon Island
 1.Go snorkeling to see protected marine species. Sumilon Island is a marine protected area and fish sanctuary that features varied marine species.

2.Enjoy nature with a day trip package. The Oslob Whale Sharks day trip package includes use of boats to and from the mainland, use of swimming facilities at the white sand bar and infinity pool, kayaking, nature hiking, snorkeling, and a lunch.

The cost of this day trip package is Php 1500.00 per person on weekdays, and Php 2000.00 on weekends and holidays.
3.Do  a cave tour or climb the lighthouse if you're feeling adventurous. Sumilon Island also has caves that are available for touring, and a lighthouse that you can climb to get a view of the whole island.

How to get there:

1.Drive a car or take a taxi for more flexibility. The drive from Cebu City to where you catch the ferry to Sumilon Island takes about 3.5 hours. It’s a scenic drive through various southern coastal towns on the mainland Cebu.

2. Take a bus for a more direct route. If you don’t feel comfortable driving yourself or taking a cab, you can ride a Ceres bus going to Bato Oslob. The bus ride takes about 4 hours. Ask the driver to take you to the Sumilon Island port at Bancogon Oslob.

3. Take the ferry from Oslob to Sumilon Island. The ferry to Sumilon Island runs every hour and a half starting at 8:00 a.m. and the last one to the island is at 4:30 p.m. The ferry ride is about 10 minutes.


-JAE-

                                                     The Taoist Temple 

   The Taoist Temple, a place for meditation, is located in Beverly Hills Subdivision, Lahug, Cebu. The Taoist which is built on a hillside has a towering multi-tiered attraction because the temple is open to both worshippers and non-worshippers,it is now become a tourist attraction in Cebu perched high in the northern hills overlooking the city. The hill where it stands it's own excellent views. A water spring flows underneath the temple. An excellent view of the city, a must see tourist spot in cebu, feels like China, a great vintage point to view the skyline.

Rules of the Temple
Remember that you’re a visitor and you’re expected to abide by the rules of this place. You may not share their faith but you must bear in mind that this place is sacred to the worshippers and that it is a place of prayer, meditation, and communication with God.

No photography inside the temples and prayer rooms. While you are allowed to take photos of every other part of the complex, please do not take pictures of the interior of the buildings and anything inside.
Observe silence. Again, it is a place of prayer so zip it and explore the place quietly.

Stay in the temple for only 30 minutes to 1 hour

How to get to Taoist Temple?
In Lahug, just near to JY Square, you will see a small road and a bridge in the right. From there you have three options:

 

Take a taxi

Ride a motorcycle – If you ride a motorcylce, the payment is 10 pesos. However, motorcycles are not allowed to enter Beverly Hills. So from the entrance, you will need to walk to taoist temple. But that’s not a problem because the temple is not that far from the entrance. Also, you will get a nice view when you walk there. The air is cool, the place is quiet and calm, and the houses are beautiful.

Walk – If you’re a person who is used to walking, then this is a good option for you. But if you’re a person who gets tired easily, this may not be the best option for you. In the temple, there are many stairs that you will have to climb in order to see the other views so you might want to save some energy.

-JAE-

Osmeña Peak: A Beautiful Sunrise Hike
   

   If you are unfamiliar with this area, it’s a spot that you really will want to visit. With an incredible green plant life and jagged hills, this peak offers you the incredible combination of both beauty and challenge.



   The view from the peak is truly rewarding; it's an eye candy mountains, endless greenery, seas, and other islands of this beautiful archipelago.

  The Osmeña Peak is located in Barangay Mantalungon, in the Municipality of Dalaguete, Cebu. The peak is part of the Mantalungon mountain range.
 Picture

Handy Travel Tips in Osmea Peak
Make sure to wear comfortable clothing during the hike for ventilation.
Protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun by applying sunscreen.
Keep yourself hydrated by bringing water-filled reusable bottles to prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Observe cleanliness and be a responsible traveler at all times.
Bring only necessary items during the hike (cell phones, wallets) and place them in a smaller bag.
Don’t forget to bring your camera. The place is truly amazing.


When to visit Osmeña Peak

   If you are only visiting the peak to see what its beauty, it is highly suggested to visit there very early in the morning or some time late in the afternoon, before sunset.
   If you are planning to camp overnight, time your travel so you arrive there when the sun is no longer hot as there are no trees at the peak to keep you shaded.
   If you  may get a little difficult to visit Osmeña Peak during the rainy season as the trail may become slippery and wet. It is also recommended to visit during the weekdays when it is less crowded.


Fees
Php 30.00 for environmental fee upon registration
Php 150-200 of you want guide services. They serve as  your photographers as well.

How to get there

Getting to Osmeña Peak takes around 3-4 hours from Cebu City.

First, you need to make your way to the South Bus Terminal and hop aboard a bus bound for Bato or Oslob but tell the driver to drop you off at the Mantalungon-Dalaguete junction. The ride costs around PHP 100 per person and you can take your brunch, lunch or other last minute purchases at the Dalaguete Public Market.

Even before you get off the bus, there will already be a lot of habal-habal drivers waiting to take you to your destination. Get on one and ask to be taken to the foot of Osmeña Peak. This ride will cost PHP 100 per person, one way.

Some more experienced hikers will start at  Mantalungon Public Market and start hiking from there, saving PHP 50 in the process. Last minute purchases may also be done from here.

Always remember,
"Leave no Trace"
No matter where you go, you should always remember to leave no trace to help preserve the beauty of the place. Don’t pick the flowers nor leave trash behind. Follow the trail and don’t make a new one. Visit the place and only take pictures — as if you have never been there at all.


-SHANIA-

           TEMPLE OF LEAH 

     A tourist attraction in Cebu City is capturing the hearts of many visitors from near and far: it is the Temple of Leah.

    The Temple of Leah is located in Barangay Busay in Cebu City. It is built as a symbol of undying love and never ending devotion of Teodorico Adarna to his wife Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. This Roman inspired edifice showcases not only a labyrinthine and sophisticated architecture but also an astounding view of the whole city.

  
    The temple has an art gallery, museum, and a library where all of the favorite things her wife owned are placed. At the top, there’s a spectacular view of the city and more exceptional scenery as you walk through the temple. You can see a grand staircase with angels made up of brass and the Queen of the Temple in a 10-ft statue with crown and flower.

    This new attraction is perfect for those who would want to appreciate the structure while checking out their art gallery and museum. This is also perfect for photoshoots of any kind which is gladly for free as of the time of this writing. As you approach the temple, you will be in awe of the gigantic gold lions at each side of the stairs leading to the entrance. As you enter the doors of the building, the grand staircase will leave your mouth hanging.
 

  
   How to get there;
Exact location; Landon Heights Roosevelt, Busay, Cebu City
Few meters away from the temple of Leah and mountain view nature park and 15 - 20 minutes away from JV square or city proper. 

By Habal - Habal; Ride a motorbike (max of 2 persons per bike), near or surrounding from JY Square Mall in Lahug. It would cost only ₱100 per head per way – ₱150 for 2 people. You may need to pay more and schedule ahead if you want a ride back from the city.
By a Taxi/Grab; T\Max of 4 persons only per car. Some drivers might be okay with it, some are not. Some might ask for more, so be understanding and negotiate well since the road is a bit steep. Estimated cost is ₱200-250 per way from the city (Ayala Center).
By a Car; This is the best option, if you want to have peace of mind and not worry about your way back home. The road is concrete and well-maintained, but a bit steep so it’s safe to bring your own car. Parking space is also available.  

How much is the entrance fee;

 -50.00 pesos per head
 -2,500.00 pesos for pictorial purposes
   Some of these who have already visited the place described that they feel like they're in ancient Rome. With its intricate sculptures, wondrous floor design and high pillars, this place will leave your eyes wandering and give you an urge to snap a million of photographs. What's more it offers outstanding overlooking views of the city.


-JAE-

                                                "Simala Shrine"

    The Cebu's Castle Church, the Simala Shrine is a favorite tourist spot for many. The church is also known for its Miraculous events
     Time to visit - one hour
     Opening hours - 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
     Should visit at - 9:00 AM
     Should leave before - 10:00 AM
      

     The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, popularly known as the Simala Shrine or Simala Church is located in Marian Hills, Lindogon, Simala, Sibonga, Cebu.
     For devotees, visiting the church is a spiritual experience. Others come with hopes that they're prayers/request will be granted.
     Being a place that attracts a lot of people daily, there are several commercial structures in the area. This includes souvenir stalls, restaurants and cottages where you can eat and generally just chill in. You can even buy religious items like rosaries and prayer books inside.
      

   "What to expect at the Simala Shrine"
          Simala Church is a house of worship, so expect a set of rules for visitors/pilgrims. This includes dress code and behavior among others.
          Here are the dress code that everyone should follow;
          For men - You must wear a long pants and a decent shirt.
          For women - The hem of your skirt or dress should be lower than the knee. Wearing of sleeveless is not allowed. But, if you are comfortable wearing one, bring a cardigan or a scarf to cover your shoulders. Wearing tube blouses, transparent and fitting pants, miniskirts, spaghetti dresses, and shorts are strongly prohibited.
 
     Here are things that are not supposed to be done inside the shrine;
          1. Taking pictures with flash.
          2. Wearing revealing shorts.
          3. Smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages.
          4. Shouting and making loud noise.
          5. Wearing of footwear inside the prayer room.
     For Catholic Devotees, here is the mass schedule in Simala Shrine;
          Sunday - 12:00 noon and 3:30 PM
          Monday to Friday - 12:00 noon
          Saturday - 10:30 AM
     

"Exploring the Miraculous Church"
          Once you are inside the Simala Shrine, you will see the how fascinating it is. Make the most of your time and try to visit every part of the church.  

     

   "The Testimonial Hall"
          There's a hall in the church where messages and testimonials of firm believers of the Virgin Mary are posted. They believe that it was through the intercession of Mary that they were cured.
     

  "The Dagkutanan Area"
          Dagkutanan means a place for candle lightning. A trademark of Cebu Churches is the candle lightning area. In this church, the color of the candles have a unique meaning;
         

         White - Purity
          Yellow - Peace
          Violet - Achievements
          Red - Love
          Pink - Thanksgiving
          Orange - Reconciliation
          Gray - Deliverance
          Green - Prosperity and Success
          Gold - Conversion and Faith
          Brown -  Vocation
          Blue - Perseverance
          Black - Souls
     

   "The Main Altar"
          You have to fall in line first before you can take a glimpse of the statue of the Miraculous Virgin Mary.

     

   "How to Reach the Simala Church"
         
        

          From the airport, ride a cab going to the South Bus terminal.
         Board a bus going to Sibonga. The bus ride will take more or less 2 hours and 30 minutes. Another option is to ride a van which is more expensive than the bus. Renting a cab can be another option but it will cost around Php 2,000.00 to Php 3,000.00 for a round trip.
         From the drop off in Lindogon, ride a tricycle or motorcycle going to the shrine. The ride will take about 5 to 10 minutes.Since the Simala Shrine was built for religious purposes, it is best to pay respect when visiting the area. Whether Catholic or non-Catholic, it is still best to give and offer an utmost respect for the belief of others. For some, the shrine may just be a place for photography and adventure but keep in mind that for the believers, the place is sacred.

-SHANIA-

       The Earth is a wellspring of amazing places and fascinating cultures.It is such a shame that we only have one life to explore everything that's out there.There is a bundle of new experiences,feelings and human behaviors.Waiting just behind the door.Traveling is the kind og activity which almost all the people love. For someone it is an opportunity to relax and abstract from everyday busy life.Thus,traveling has tremendous educative,informative and social value.It widens relaxation to life,dispels boredom and helps promoting national integration.There is nothing quite like traveling,like seeing a new place for the fisrt time or returning to a favorite place.People of all ages,from all countries,travel to foreign places for many different reasons namely work,family and leisure.Whether by plain,train or automobile.
        Travel is generally a pleasurable experiance at least for the people who can financially afford comfortable and safe methods ot travel.In this process,people tend to forget,who they are and what they are.There is no time to ponder and wonder.They tend ti forget the values of life.It is a time when people relax,reflect and ponder.Most people,after a pleasant travel,return home with a fresh outlook,new zeal and a better determination.
       To sum up, traveling is great due to the fact that each and every person can find something interesting and exciting for him or herself.The main thing here is to be open-minded and positive in your aspiration and world's perception.

Shania & Jae