Road Trip 2016 – (Tinuy-an Falls to Lianga, Surigao)

From Bislig City, Tinuy-an Falls , is a mere 10 minutes trip. It only takes longer because the road to this water falls from the highway is not paved. I think the right phrase is “not maintained”.

The place is so beautiful , it is a pity that the Local Government seemed to have forgotten the road leading to this very famous  tourist spot in Mindanao. As per conversation with the staff at Tinuy-an, I was told “ma’am, we already requested for maintenance long before the Holy Week and nothing happened until now”.  I find that so sad.  Hopefully, the state of disrepair will be acted upon before Holy Week of 2017. 🙂 We have Filipino time, after all.

Kidding aside, this part of Mindanao has a very gorgeous landscape.

Look at Lake 77. You will find this beside the road on the way to Tinuy-an Falls. The first time we went there years ago, there was a nipa hut there where we had our lunch. But like everything else in our country, no one maintained it. So now it’s gone. That would have been a nice spot to  rest for a few minutes and enjoy the lake.

IMG_5852

IMG_5901 IMG_5898

Very beautiful right? 🙂

IMG_5897 IMG_5895

IMG_5891 IMG_5884

IMG_5855

Finally, we have arrived. 🙂

Madayaw na Pagkani is the Surigaonon way of welcoming us, the tourists.  Couldn’t help but smile at that. Thank you.

IMG_5877

So here are the 2016 Fees. We were there just March of this year. So this should still be the same to date.

We rented the big cottage since there were 23 of us, including our staff.

IMG_5858

My model below did not cooperate. ha ha ha

IMG_5867

Thanks to the hubby for this picture. 🙂

IMG_5868

And of course, we came prepared. Yes there are carenderias in the area. But we preferred to have our own food. We just bought softdrinks from the stores there.

Our baon included Ribs Rebusado, Beef Steak, Pancit, Shrimps and Fried Chicken. Thanks to my sister for being the chef. 🙂 She also prepared mango float. If not for her, we will all get hungry. haha

My aunt , Nanay Ligaya brought bread and Puto Maya (my favorite and yes I am spoiled.. haha) . My secretary, Emelie , brought Biko. Solve na ang lunch! 🙂

After saying grace, lunch was served.

IMG_5859 IMG_5861 IMG_5860

 

The beauty that is called.. Tinuy-an Falls. It is tagged as the Niagara Falls of the Philippines. Of course, this is the smaller version. A lot smaller. 🙂 If you’ve been to Niagara Falls, you will understand what I am talking about.

Still, its untouched beauty is what I love about this place. Void of too much or too many developments, one can see how stunning it is,  in its natural state.

IMG_5862

During rainy season, this waterfalls have a stronger volume of water. As it was summer time when I took this picture, there wasn’t much then.

IMG_5870

IMG_5863

Funny story:

We hired the raft that will take us under the waterfalls. It’s a short ride and the raft was tied in thick rope. So it wasn’t really scary. It’s just me and my paranoia.

The conversation: ( a few minutes later – under the falls)

Me         : Dong, how deep is the water here.

Raftboy:  More or less, 30 meters ma’am.

Me         : Oi, that’s deep.  (If you know how to swim, that is nothing. But if you don’t, you’ll get scared. )

So I told everyone in our group, we should head back. And then I talked to the raft boy again – “Dong, balik na ta. (Dong let’s go back). ”  He did not listen to me. So I repeated what I said. And after the 3rd time, he looked at my secretary. That’s when we all realized what was happening. Let me explain. Emelie holds the money. She was the finance manager for the whole trip. So you see, If I was the raft boy, I would have done the same too. hahaha… Bright kid!  Oh Lea, what were you thinking! ha ha

The one behind me in red shirt is Emelie. 🙂

12900038_596364267186311_354793977_n

This dragon fly kept on going back to me… Cute!

12910469_596364697186268_807420618_n

After the short raft trip , our staff decided to check out the nature trail. It goes up to the highest portion of the water falls.

With pretty lady, Analyn crossing the metal bridge.

944939_1065103883555806_7082441918359331528_n[1]

The boys with Emelie. 🙂

10377_594733937349344_5287267122384529856_n[1]

Taken on top. Credits to Rey Velarde for this picture.

12376665_1065103836889144_3423247258211972365_n[1]

Back down below:

Analyn with my nephew, Marco. 🙂

12718382_1065095693556625_5432735941183710925_n[1]

11992_10208268480417226_573937843822016084_n[1]

Jener, Analyn, Blaire, Me, Tadz and Third , Marco in blue, Rey , my sister (Pearlie) and Wemce.  1689160_10208268482337274_494296429480182254_n[1]

My sister and family.  10274328_10208268489577455_2569599347626056899_n[1]

Cheesy. haha   Hubby and I. 🙂 Thank you Rey for this picture.

tinuy-an with John

We left Tinuy-an Falls around 3:00pm. The GPS said that it’s only 96kms to Lianga Bay, where Kansilad Beach Resort ( our home for a few nights) is located.

On our way to Lianga, we found this Bislig signage along the highway. 🙂 So once again, we posed for record purposes. ha ha

IMG_5905

Regardless of the heat, we had to do our Duterte sign. Seriously! 🙂

IMG_5911

Okay , what I’m going to say below is very important. So PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

PLEASE USE THE COASTAL ROAD. (The one highlighted in blue).

We took the middle road at first,  that comes out to Tagbina , following the GPS. Since it was supposedly a shorter route. What we didn’t know was that,  the road was so bad we had to go back after 30 minutes of driving there. I got worried too because the road was blocked by a gate. So weird. Why would a government  road be blocked by a bamboo gate?  This route was so eerie. Imagine being in a bad road, no houses and no people in the vicinity after 3kms or so. It seemed like a perfect setting for a robbery movie gone bad.

So take heed of this notice. Do not leave the concrete highway.

tinuy-an to kansilad

 

Our two hour trip to Lianga Bay turned out to be 3 hours. Because of that supposedly short cut road. I am just glad that we came out fine. Thank you Lord.

We arrived at Kansilad Beach Resort around 6:00 in the evening. There was still daylight when we checked in. That gave us a little time to rest before dinner. 🙂

The photo below was taken at the Restaurant of Kansilad Beach Resort.

IMG_5925

This has been an adventurous day. We had so much fun, I can’t tell you how happy that made me.

Thank you for the protection Lord. And for this blessing.

 

 

Lea C. Walker

http://www.davaoproperties.com

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Road Trip Tips – Manila to Davao City

With the 16th President of the Philippines , Rodrigo R. Duterte, hailing from Davao City, I noticed that this blog has gotten a lot of hits on our road trips from Manila to Davao.  Since my previous articles were written based on our daily trip, I decided to compress such stories and come up with a practical tip based on our experiences.

Those who are new to this blog, please note that my travel buddies are my direct family. Sometimes, it’s just me and my husband. Sometimes, with my parents , siblings and their families. And sometimes, all of them with our staff. We are all boring people who take joy in traveling and enjoying places together in a clean, fun way. 🙂

In 2014, my family and I , flew to Manila to pick up the 2 vehicles we bought there.  After picking them up from Mitsubishi and Nissan respectively, we visited some places for a couple of days before heading back to Davao.  I was told that this trip can be done in 2 nights. But since it was summer and the nephews are off from school, we made a one week trip out of it. So I guess, this is for those who want to enjoy the Philippines by road tripping. 🙂

Our Itinerary included the following:

Day 1 – Arrival in Manila, pick up vehicles.

Day 2 – Manila Ocean Park

Day 3 – Day Tour in Tagaytay. Sleep in Lucena City.

Day 4 – Visit Mt. Mayon. Sleep in Legazpi City.

Day 5 – Travel to Samar , Leyte. Sleep in Calbayog City.

Day 6 – Travel. Sleep in Leyte.

Day 7 – Back in Mindanao. Sleep in Butuan City.

Day 8 – Home.

Okay so I am an O-C traveler. I have a print out of all our schedules, prepaid hotel vouchers, etc. They are neatly filed in an orange clear book. I have been road tripping    here and the US/Canada for years now that I can plan one even when I’m asleep.  🙂

So here are the excerpt of that trip:

DAY 1 & 2 – If you’re from Manila, I think you will not need tips on these days anymore. But if you’re from somewhere else and you’re buying vehicles in Manila, this is for you. We took Cebu Pacific from Davao. And stayed in Prince Plaza II Condotel in Makati the first night. I chose that hotel because its entrance is just across Greenbelt. I love that Mall. Plus there are so many restaurants to choose from, so you won’t get hungry. On our 2nd day, I booked several rooms at Rothman Hotel since it is nearer to Manila Ocean Park, where we will be spending the day. You will find the details through these links:

Road Trip Day 1 – Manila

Roadtrip Day 2 – Manila Ocean Park

 

DAY 3 –  From the hotel, we took the Manila-Cavite Expressway and Emilio Aguinaldo Highway via Roxas Boulevard on our way to Tagaytay. It took us 2 hours or so only to reach Tagaytay using that route.  We had a stop over at Dencio’s Restaurant for lunch. It was my parent’s first time in Tagaytay. And I was glad that they loved the place. The view of Taal Volcano and the lake is very pretty even on a cloudy day. From there, we proceeded to Nuvali so the nephews can feed the fishes.  After buying some take away goodies from Conti’s , off we went to our hotel in Lucena City – the Queen Margarette.  This is a long trip so be prepared.

More details can be found here –

Road Trip Day 3 – Tagaytay

 

DAY 4 –  I am reiterating this againthe Queen Margarette Hotel – http://www.queenmargarettehotel.com/main/index.php?property=main   is a really good option, specially when you’ve had a long day.  The free breakfast that came with our booking was convenient because it saved us time in looking for food before proceeding to Albay.  The trip from Lucena City to Legazpi City is about 7 hours. The view is fantastic, specially the coastal areas of Quezon Province. The mountains and the rice fields in between look beautiful too. Be prepared to be impressed. 🙂 Unlike in America though, we don’t have rest areas in the Philippines. So when you buy fuel, use their bathroom if it’s clean. If not, then you’re out of luck. Sorry. Another thing to consider, the restaurants are few and far between. Hence, make sure that you have snacks and drinks in the car. If you have space, bring a cooler.

For more details of this trip, you may check –

Road Trip Day 4 – Lucena City

 

lucena to albay

 

DAY 5 – The highlight of this day is our visit to Mt. Mayon.  This is the 2nd time for the whole family except my youngest nephew, Wemce, who wasn’t born yet the first time we visited the place. The thing with family travel is that everyone has the same memory. And that bond will never be broken. I am glad that my nephews love nature as much as I do. So they are great travel buddies, as far as I am concerned. 🙂 More photos can be found here –

Road Trip Day 5 – (Albay to Calbayog, Samar)

Again, this is a long travel. It took us at least 6 hours including the ferry trip of about 2 hours. The fare for each vehicle was about P2,000.00 including one passenger. The rest were charged about P120 per head. I remember paying about P20,000.00 for both the Montero and the Nissan van. That included the ferry fare (vehicle and passengers) and fuel from Manila to Davao.

Reminder – Samar has repair works all the time. So be prepared. Give an allowance for such to ensure that you will be at your hotel before the sun sets. In our case, we stayed at Ciriaco Hotel and Spa Resort.  For more details of this trip , read :

Road Trip Day 5 – (Albay to Calbayog, Samar)

 

Albay to Calbayog

 

DAY 6 –  Was a gloomy looking day. But despite that, it wasn’t able to dampen our spirit. The Philippines is a very beautiful country. Samar and Leyte, are testaments to that. We stayed at Ciriaco Hotel and Spa Resort. I am glad that we did because we loved it.

The travel time from Calbayog, Samar to Sogod, Leyte took at least 6 hours.

Read more of this day’s account here –

Road Trip Day 6 – (Calbayog, Samar to Sogod, Leyte)

 

calbayog to sogod

 

DAY 7 – Ahh.. this was a beautiful  day.  I loved the sceneries from Sogod, Leyte up to our arrival in Butuan City. Sunset in Lake Mainit ,  Surigao was very pretty too. You know, I really hope that you get to experience this trip as well. Yes, it is tiring. But it is worth it. I have been telling everyone for the longest time, seeing the Philippines’ country side is one of the best experiences you could ever have.

Total Land Travel was 5 hours plus sea travel of an hour. Check the details here –

Road Trip Day 7 – (Sogod, Leyte to Butuan City)

 

DAY 8 – is when we go home. There’s a bittersweet feeling within me. The fun is over. And time for a reality check, so to speak. 🙂 It has been an awesome adventure for the family. Specially for my nephews. All thanksgiving to God for this blessing and for his protection.

Butuan City to Davao City is a mere 6 hour trip. And it is safe if you know the road. If not, then I suggest that you travel during day time. There’s a winding road before reaching Tagum City and the ridges there are pretty deep. So you need to drive carefully. And of course, be attentive to crazy drivers on the road. 🙂

Check this link for the final story of this road trip here –

Road Trip Day 8 – Butuan To Davao

 

To enjoy your trip better, I suggest that you book everything in advance. Make sure that all your hotel vouchers are intact. Most importantly, take the trip with people who love to see new things as much as you do. And if at all possible, do it with your family. Specially with the children. If you expose them to nature, they will grow up appreciating the things around them better.

Ciao everyone! I hope that you enjoyed this blog. Thank you for traveling with us. 🙂

 

 

 

 

Lea C. Walker

http://www.davaoproperties.com

 

 

 

 

Posted in Uncategorized | 6 Comments

Davao City – Life is Here….

I was in high school the first time I heard Mayor Rody Duterte  give a speech. He made such an impact in my young mind that I promised myself, I would vote for him when I am already allowed to do s…

Source: Davao City – Life is Here….

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Road Trip 2016 – Enroute to Tinuy-an Falls

It’s that time of the year once again. Our yearly road trip that is… 🙂 This time our itinerary concentrated on Surigao Del Sur and Agusan Provinces.

We left Davao City around 6:00 in the morning. Our first destination – Tinuy-an Falls. My family and I have been there three times already. But most of our staff haven’t. Hence, the reason for this visit.

As per google map, going through Barobo is a longer route. So the hubby and I opted for the Trento-Cuevas road, which would shorten the distance by about 1.5 hours. Honestly, we have no idea what awaits us in this road as we have never been there yet. My sister hated me for about an hour because she heard that this road was dangerous and that we shouldn’t be trying it. At all.  lol

But well, one travels to experience places right? And this is one of those days.

The verdict? See for yourselves. 🙂

I took this photo in Tibungco. I noticed that Davao is really clean even early in the morning. Makes me proud to be a Davaoena!

IMG_5775

Tagum City is also very nice and clean. 🙂

IMG_5779

Okay , the photos below were taken at the Trento-Cuevas road. It is at least 2 hours from Tagum City.

When I saw these two young girls walking beside the road, I realized that it must be safe. Because they wouldn’t be there if it isn’t,  right?

IMG_5797 IMG_5809 IMG_5808 IMG_5802 IMG_5800

We would have missed the above panoramic vistas, if we took the other route. I tell you, this is far better than fighting the traffic along the main highway. This road isn’t crowded at all. It is mostly concrete , except for the portions that are being repaired.

IMG_5827

IMG_5847

Moving on… 🙂

The river below looked so clean.

IMG_5816

IMG_5822

In one of the overlooks. Beautiful right?

IMG_5831

Sorry for the reflection on the windshield.  I just loved the trees in this part of the trip. 🙂

IMG_5840

Common transportation in Agusan.

IMG_5848

This one is so full , it must have been difficult for the passengers.

IMG_5850

Found a small town in the middle of nowhere.

The road may be small but it’s paved…

IMG_5849

We came out of this mountain road in Bislig City, one of the biggest cities in Surigao Del Sur. The google map below will show you where it is.

Tinuy-an Falls Map

To those who plan on driving to Tinuy-an Falls this summer, you now have an idea of the Trento-Cuevas road. I thought of writing about it because I didn’t find much information about this short cut road during my research, that’s why. Hopefully, it will help you in your travels.

One thing I learned about this trip is the fact that not everything we hear is true. I am glad that we did not let our fear of the unknown hinder us in trying this route because we loved this part of our road trip.

This is just the beginning. 🙂 I will be writing soon about Tinuy-an Falls in my next blog entry.

Thank you for visiting and Happy Easter everyone! 🙂

 

 

Lea C. Walker

http://www.davaoproperties.com

Posted in My Travels | Tagged , , | 4 Comments

Valentine’s Day

I have been seeing a lot of Valentine’s Day posts everywhere about places to go, of people who have no date, of people who are looking for dates and suggestions on where to dine, what to give, etc.

Some postings make me smile and some made me think.

Hence, this article. Note, this is on the serious side. So I might bore you. 🙂

I would like to address our youth and our young professionals.

Most often than not, peer pressure gets tough. Specially when one doesn’t have a date on Valentine’s Day. The question that keeps popping up is – why? As if it’s the worst thing that can happen to a person if you have no date or boyfriend/ girlfriend during this day.

If you are in this dilemma, then I feel you. It used to irritate me when people asked me why I didn’t have a boyfriend at the age of 24. And remember I got married when I was 33 years old. So imagine the years in between where I felt like I had to justify why I was not in a relationship. What irritated me the most was when people started telling me that I am becoming an old maid. And that I should not be choosy. Or that it’s difficult to be intelligent because we tend to think too much. ha ha ha… I think that’s the worst I heard when I was still single.

It was kinda hard for me to explain that a) I was waiting for the person that would complement me, b) I was not willing to settle for less , c) I had other priorities.

Let me elaborate. My priorities were different when I was younger. Being the eldest sibling, I felt the need to ensure that my younger sisters are okay. And since I was also helping my father, I felt like I too was the breadwinner of the family. When one is faced with that situation, having a love life  wasn’t that too important. Well, to me at least.

I was 31 years old when I told God in one of my prayers that I was ready to get married. I specified everything I wanted in a man and my ending was ” don’t forget Lord, gwapo ha.” Well, prayer shouldn’t be boring right? 🙂  And I have always prayed like I am talking to my father…

I was busy with work. This time, I started investing a little. I was able to buy a house. Received a van as an award from my previous boss. Traveled with my family. Spent time with friends.  I wasn’t bored, in other words.  Infact, I had fun even if I was single. It’s not the status in life that makes one happy. It is the acceptance of where you are in your life. And your decision on what to do with it.

I was given the chance to enjoy earning well through my work so I made sure that my parents are okay and happy.  Eversince I received the van, my family and I went everywhere.  I bonded with my nephews too . And to me, that’s one of the best things in my life back then. Small boys calling me Mommy Inday, as if I was really their mom. And seeing them enjoy life with the rest of the family as they grew up, was one of my best memories.

And you know, I am glad I waited. Because God in his goodness, gifted me with my husband whom I met 2 years  after I said my prayer. We became friends in February 2005. He came to visit me in June of the same year. And we got married November of the same year as well. 🙂 Sounded like a whirlwind romance, but if it’s god’s will, everything will just fall into place.

I am saying that a) Do not let other people stress you about your lack of romantic relationship.  b) Enjoy being single!  Spend time with family and friends.  c) Develop yourself into a better human being. That way, you have more to offer to your husband one day. d) Pray. You can’t go wrong with that. I promise you.

I hope that this video will show you that prayer works. I was happy when I got married. And I am still happy now, a decade later. Thank God. 🙂

Oh, John didn’t know I could sing. So it came as a shock to him when I sang during our wedding reception. haha.. He got teary eyed and looked so cute. Sounds cheesy , I know. 🙂 But love is that and more…

Believe me, it pays to wait… 🙂

Happy Valentine’s everyone!

 

 

 

Lea C. Walker

http://www.davaoproperties.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

10 Things I Love About Eden

Eden Nature Park is my “go to place” in Davao City, when I am tired. Let me tell you why….

  1. Weather – being at the foot of Mt. Talomo and with Mt. Apo National Park at its backdoor, this resort is at least 10 degrees cooler compared to downtown Davao. Adding to the lower temperature are the surrounding pine trees , bamboos and the forest inside the resort.  January started hot. Very hot, actually. Our normal temperature the past weeks was 34’c (93.2’f)  with a high of about 39’c (102.2’f). That used to be 30-32’c . So yes, climate change is affecting us. With the El Nino phenomenon as well, summer started early this year. So I consider it a blessing that Davao City has Eden , where we can retreat to , when the city gets too much.

    eden nature park

    Sometimes, one gets lucky and experience a foggy Eden. 🙂

  2. Food –  Ahh… I would go up to Eden just for their buffet. Period. haha But my most favorite is their salad. Their hydroponic garden produces their own organic vegetables. That being said, their salad is made of freshly picked lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, etc. With their honey mustard sauce, it is heaven on earth. Okay, maybe not for those who do not eat vegetables. 🙂 But I would like to say this, I regret those years that I have been going there and never tried their salad because I don’t eat that much of a vegetable. I have started patronizing their salad about 2 years ago only. They look so good that I thought, what could go wrong?! Tsk..tsk. Honestly, biggest regret of my life is that I started too late.
    Fresh Salad. A must while at Eden Nature Park's Restaurant.

    Fresh Salad. A must while at Eden Nature Park’s Restaurant.

    019

  3.  Swimming Pool. Most people visit Eden Nature Park for the view and to spend time with family. Since the place is so big, there are so many things to do. Hence, the swimming pool isn’t crowded. And I find it cleaner than most public pools in the city. The water comes from a spring, so it is cold. But if you dip in the pool on a sunny day, it is perfect! 🙂 The picture below was taken on an ordinary weekend. Like I said, their pool isn’t crowded.  I’ve been there so many times and it is always like that. Except during holidays. 11427244_990296354336890_531583367680323218_n[1]IMG_9806

4. Elysia.      They added this massage place about a year ago. I am so glad that they did because that means a perfect get away for me. Can you imagine getting a massage before going to sleep at night? Awesome right? Now it is made possible there.

Eden massage

I took this selfie after getting a massage, in one of our family day tours there. It’s so relaxing , it felt so good afterwards.

20150606_142239_1

5. Cottages. The hubby and I love their vista cottage.  The bedroom opens up to a wide porch covered with screen so insects can’t disturb your rest. This allows cool fresh air to get inside the room as well.  The porch overlooks the forest and the sound of the running water on the creek below is music to my ears. 🙂5686_1098956540137537_5467034407730360757_n[1]

Above – Vista Cottage porch.

Below: The bedroom. It has a sliding glass door going to the porch. The bathroom is big and comes with hot/cold water both in the shower and in the sink. IMG_6557

For family use: Camella Cottage is perfect. It can accommodate 4 people , each room. It is also convenient because it’s near the restaurant and the playground. I like that because my parents are senior citizens. While my mother is okay, my father isn’t. He walks slowly  due to his previous high blood stroke. So going to the restaurant is easy for them. And they can easily watch the “apos”  (grand kids) while they’re having fun in the nearby playground.

Camella Cottages.

Camella Cottages come with a large bathroom.  There are several adjacent cottages so it’s great for big families who do not want to be away from each other.

20160101_150433

6. Forest Tour. This is a beautiful way to bond with the family and the staff.  I find it cheap at P80.00 per head if you’re a guest of the resort. Seeing our vacation/get-away photos make me happy. So it’s so worth it,  to see everyone having fun. 🙂

IMG_0162 IMG_0172 IMG_0195 IMG_0203

7.  Fun Activities:  My nephews love playing Frisbee in their wide open park.

IMG_9839.JPG

But aside from that Eden offers more – horseback riding, indiana jones ride, sky rider, sky cycle, sky swing among other things. So children and adults alike will not get bored. 🙂

This photo of Matt was taken on 2011. 🙂

002

Even at their younger age, my nephews love Eden already. 🙂 Matt with Marco here…

041

Franco, riding the Indiana Jones.  Look at the grin on his face! haha

IMG_7465

My youngest nephew Wemce, with his mom.  It’s endearing to see them laughing. haha

IMG_7463

If you want more adventure, here are the cost. 🙂

IMG_7523

8. Fishing. Of course, my all time favorite. No explanation needed. 🙂 I don’t eat Tilapia, which is what you will get in Eden. But it is fun to fish. So there we go! ha ha

IMG_4173

This signage refers to the people who throw their garbage in the pond. But of course, the hubby took it differently. hahahaIMG_6749

IMG_4151

9.  Aviary , Butterfly and Flower Garden. Question – what’s not to like about those? None right? 🙂

42 045 (2)

IMG_6630

046

036 040

069

008

10. The feeling of contentment when I am there.  I do not own the place. Wish ko lang. haha.. I’m not even paid for this write up. But that’s the truth. Eden is a part of my life. And the people I love. We all love the place as if we are a part of it too. It may sound weird but that’s just how it is. It’s not just a place to visit but a place for us to unwind. Enjoy each other’s company and be at peace with nature. 🙂 I just realized that my nephews grew up with Eden Nature Park as  part of their young lives. I believe I will grow old/older (ha ha) with this park on the background as well. In one of our conversations, I told the hubby, that we should buy a place in the area. His reply was – if we don’t want to cook, we will still go to Eden to eat. So it is cheaper to just stay in one of their cottages. No maintenance.  I get his point! lol 20160101_191106 IMG_6669 20150606_142423 20151130_112349

For more details about Eden Nature Park, please visit their website. –  edennaturepark.com.ph/

Tip  – visit their facebook page or their website. They have 50% to 70% discount on room rates from time to time. The booking comes with free entrance to the pool and the fishing village. So book ahead of time and enjoy the discounted rates. Buffet costs P380.00 only per head when you are an overnight guest as well.

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Davao, davao city, Eden Nature Park, My Travels | Tagged , , , , , , | 6 Comments

Road Trip 2015 – Moraine Lake, Alberta, Canada

 

Moraine Lake is a glacially fed lake in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. It is at the foothills of Valley of the Ten Peaks, a series of Rocky Mountain Peaks that stand regally and majestically, making it one of the most visited places at the park.

Credits to Wikipedia for the mountain names. Thank you.

# Peak metres feet Original Native name
1 Mount Fay 3,235 10,613 Heejee
2 Mount Little 3,088 1,131 Num
3 Mount Bowlen 3,072 10,079 Yamnee
4 Mount Tonsa 3,057 10,030 Tonsa
5 Mount Perren 3,051 10,010 Sapta
6 Mount Allen 3,310 10,860 Shappee
7 Mount Tuzo 3,246 10,650 Shagowa
8 Deltaform Mountain 3,424 11,234 Shakhnowa
9 Neptuak Mountain 3,233 10,607 Neptuak
10 Wenkchemna Peak 3,170 10,401 Wenkchemna

The Lake is so clear and clean that everything around it is reflected on it. Due to the rock flour that settled at the bottom also, its water has  shades of blue.

Beautiful is an understatement. 🙂

This place is magnificent in any weather. But I love its winter wonderland look more.

I hope you enjoy the video as much as I did… 🙂

 

 

 

Lea C. Walker

http://www.davaoproperties.com

 

Posted in My Travels, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada

Merry Christmas everyone! 🙂

Enjoy this beautiful video of our road trip to  Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Alberta , Canada.

Posted in My Travels, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

US 2015 – Seattle Day 2 (Mt. Rainier National Park)

We woke up about 5′ in the morning. Too early to do anything, we thought. Breakfast at the hotel doesn’t even start until  2 hours later. 🙂 It would have been nice if we could go back to sleep, but we couldn’t. So after a short discussion, we changed our plan for the day.

Instead of doing the sight seeing trip in downtown Seattle, we decided to check out Mt. Rainier National Park.

Armed with the Atlas Map and the GPS, we left the hotel an hour later.

We found this light traffic on the way to Carbon River .

IMG_9539

Breakfast before reaching Carbon River.

20150904_070326

The view of  Mt. Rainier from the town.

IMG_9542

Going up the mountain.

We were just going by the Jeep’s GPS.  At this point, we noticed that there were no signs going to Mt. Rainier. So we wondered if we were lost. But the view was beautiful. And we thought, this is America. Even if we’re lost, we’re still safe. 🙂 So we just kept on …

IMG_9568

The river looked small from the top. 🙂 Think how high we were. he he

IMG_9572

I don’t like switchbacks. But if you’re going up the mountain, then this is part of it. 🙂

IMG_9575

Found a deer. When she saw us, she immediately went back. I wasn’t fast enough.

IMG_9578

After awhile, we found the Carbon River Ranger Station.

Funny story coming up. 🙂 Just continue reading….

 

IMG_9582

The park rangers were busy entertaining questions of the other tourists. So we waited. And took photo of the station’s interior. I love the fireplace. 🙂

IMG_9583

When it was our turn, I asked the older ranger – sir do you have a map like this? Pointing to the map on their counter. He said – “yes, it’s by the window’. So I went there as instructed. Took a map. And then I saw a ref magnet. I took one for my mother and paid for it. We said thank you and left.

I took this photo on our way back to the Jeep. Isn’t that beautiful? And so peaceful?

IMG_9585

About 5 minutes later, we saw this sign. 🙂

Then we noticed, there’s no one there. Weird for a very famous park. Where did the other tourists go, we wondered…

IMG_9588

So we didn’t get out of the vehicle. Just made a turn at the boundary. Turned  right at the bridge.

IMG_9590

This bridge. So beautiful right? Specially with the fog on top.

The State of Washington is known for their evergreens. So pretty…

IMG_9591

The river view.

IMG_9595 IMG_9593

When we reached the other side of the bridge, there was nothing there. We found some trails though. So we went back to the ranger station to make some clarifications.

On our way back to Carbon River station, I was able to get another drive by photo of the river.

IMG_9603

With the map I got at the station earlier, we went inside to talk to the park ranger. This time, the younger ranger entertained us. Then he explained, we were holding on to a trail map (which we obviously didn’t read). ha ha… Okay,  makes sense. No wonder we didn’t see anyone there. The other tourists took the trail going up Mt. Rainier.

Then, the ranger said – “where did you get this?” Referring to the map.

I said  “by the window”.  Remember that’s what the other ranger told me earlier.

He said – “this costs money…” Looking for the price at the back at the map. Gee, true enough there was a tag of $16 dollars something at the back.

I looked flabbergasted. And John burst out laughing.  It’s so embarrassing right? I just realized that since I did not pay any attention, I technically stole a walking trail map of Mt. Rainier at the ranger station.  Tsk.. tsk…

I must have looked so red that the park ranger asked “do you want it?” I said no. But I would pay for it . He said, no I will just put it back there. I apologized for the mistake. And said thank you.

If I wasn’t so embarrassed, I would have laughed about it. John couldn’t help and kept on chuckling though. 🙂

I have been to so many parks in the past and maps are just freebies. So I was so surprised that said map was for sale. But the lesson of this story is – pay attention. 🙂

Moving on, we followed the ranger’s instruction and went back to where we first started. If you do this trip on your own with only GPS as your guide, take the White River station. It will take you to the top.

IMG_9607 IMG_9610

Up and up and up, we go….

IMG_9614 IMG_9621 IMG_9616

And then we found the fog on top. 🙂 Beautiful right?

IMG_9627 IMG_9626

Here’s the view of Mt. Rainier .  Or a part of it. The mountains were covered with fog that time.

IMG_9631

My first close up glimpse of a glacier.

IMG_9633

The road with a view . Sunrise road was completed in 1929. Its master plan was designed by a National Park Service Architect, this road runs along a canyon rim to avoid cutting through fragile meadows. The road was also designed with the Emmons Glacier and the surrounding views, in mind.

I commend the US National Park Service for everything that they do to protect the environment and its landscape. They really make the parks so beautiful without ruining its eco system.

IMG_9640 IMG_9639

The Palisades Lake, as viewed from the Sunrise Road.

IMG_9641

One would think that this is where it ends. Right? But no, the sun road doesn’t end here.

The road continues. And the view of the snow-capped mountains got bigger, beautifully looming above us.

IMG_9660

And then we found more fog… And snow!!! 🙂

IMG_9661

IMG_9665

Finally, we reached the utmost top. We were greeted with the view of Sunrise Visitor Center and Sunrise Day Lodge. Both establishments are open until September only. The sunrise road is closed during winter.

The view on top.

My first snow during this trip. 🙂

IMG_9667 IMG_9678

Sunrise Day Lodge, behind the hubby.

IMG_9672 IMG_9668

Sunrise Visitor Center.

IMG_9690 IMG_9704 IMG_9701 IMG_9699 IMG_9698 IMG_9697 IMG_9696 IMG_9694 IMG_9691

At the meadow. It felt like Christmas. ha ha

IMG_9686 IMG_9689

Me, having fun!!! 🙂

IMG_7849 IMG_7861 IMG_7850

This is just a small part of Mt. Rainier. If you like nature and walking on trails, then this is for you.

Ours was just a day trip. And yet, we had fun…..   🙂

 

 

 

 

 

Lea C. Walker

http://www.davaoproperties.com

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Davao City – Life is Here….

I was in high school the first time I heard Mayor Rody Duterte  give a speech. He made such an impact in my young mind that I promised myself, I would vote for him when I am already allowed to do so. I don’t remember everything he said but one thing that stuck was his promise to clean up the city literally and figuratively speaking.

Back then, where my family and I used to live was called “Nicaragdao”, short for Nicarag and Agdao. Nicarag is derived from the root word “karag” which is translated into the following: shake, vibrate, quiver, throb.  Yes, true to its nickname, Agdao was really shaken at that time. Infact one of the barangays was called Barrio Patay because it seemed like people get killed on a daily basis. Scary? Oh yes! Very…

There was a time when people , I do not remember who they belong to, would knock on everyone’s door and count the men living in each residence.  I remember getting scared for my father. I always had this  fear –  what if someday, he would be picked up too like the other men in the neighborhood and get killed?

To all of you who grew up in a nice neighborhood where such experiences are as alien as living in planet Mars, you will never understand how most of us in Davao felt at that time. You should be thankful for such blessing.

Peace and order seemed like  an elusive dream for all Davaoenos, specially for those who lived in the poor side of the city.

And then he became the Mayor. Slowly but surely, Davao City indeed got cleaned up.  The birth of the firecracker ban was clearly explained to all of us. The city , having had insurgency problems and terrorist attacks , needed to ban the use of firecrackers during Christmas and the New Year because most of the big ones sound like gun shots. That said, it will be difficult for the police to know if the sound came from gun shots or firecrackers. Plus of course, it’s to ensure that no one goes to the hospital during those times due to firecracker accidents as well.  Its implementation of course was met with complaints. But everyone cooperated in the end because it was for the good of all constituents. All it took was an iron fist. And the need to discipline the people.

Other Ordinances, such as the following , were born  as well:

No Smoking in Public Places – if you are new to the City, please be advised of this ordinance. This is strictly implemented.

Liquor Restrictions from 1am to 8am

Speed Limit – this is strictly being implemented too. We have long lens cameras that can focus on your plate numbers. So mga kaskasero, you’ll have trouble in Davao.

Anti Descrimination Law – An ordinance declaring unlawful acts and conducts of discrimination based on sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, race, color, descent, national or ethnic origin, and religios affiliation, or beliefs and penalizing the same.

Women Development Code of Davao City –  the policy of the Local Government of Davao City to uphold the rights of women and the belief in their worth and dignity as human beings. Women shall be recognized as full and equal partners of men in development and nation building and men shall share equally with all forms of productive and reproductive activities.

Anti Nuisance Ordinance. In our City, we can call 911 to complain if a neighbor decides to have videoke or karaoke until the wee hours of the morning. And yes, minutes later the police would actually come knocking on your door. There is a limit of 10:00 in the evening for such kind of noise. Loud music on vehicles that disturb others are not allowed as well.

And of course, the war on drugs is strictly implemented. So if your business is selling drugs, do not come here. Period.

I am sure Davaoenos would still remember the days when we were so afraid of snatchers, akyat bahay gang, etc.  Now, we can walk freely on the street anytime of the day, or night for that matter. No one would mug you. No one would snatch your purse or cellphones or jewelries here. I wonder if you can talk about your cities the same way?

Is Davao perfect? Of course not. There are days when bad elements try to enter the city. But they get caught. If not today, then soon.

Another thing that I am so proud of are our taxi drivers. They return your change. 🙂 And they do not overcharge. If you encounter any problem with your taxi driver, get the plate number and name of the driver. Then go to the nearest police station and report such act. That gets acted on immediately. Mayor Duterte would sometimes take the necessary action personally. That’s how disciplined our taxi drivers are here. There are hard headed newbies that try to practice what they’re used to from wherever they came from, but I believe now they know that they cannot do that in Davao. ha ha

And then there’s 911. We just dial these 3 numbers when we have emergencies. And their response time is fast. Oh yeah, Davaoenos are smug because we are pretty proud of our city. 🙂

 

Let me share with you the Awards that Davao City has gathered over the years:

 

MOST CULTURE-FRIENDLY CITY IN THE PHILIPPINES

  • 2009

ONE OF THE 20 MOST LIVABLE CITIES IN ASIA

  • In the annual survey made by Asiaweek on the 40 Best cities in Asia, Davao City has unfailingly made it to the top for four consecutive years (1996-1999).

THE PHILIPPINES’ MOST LIVABLE CITY

  • One of the Only Three Areas in the World to have the Integrated emergency Response System 911 as Top 25 Best Practices in the Philippines
  • Davao City is one of only three areas in world, after the United States and Canada to have the Integrated Emergency Response System 911, a fully computerized response system linking the people of the city to the emergency resources of the government.
  • Davao City received an award for its Project 911 from the League of Cities in the Philippines in 2003, as one of the Top 25 Best Practices in the Philippines.

TOP DESTINATION OF THE YEAR

  • Kalakbay Awards (1997)

CLEANEST AND GREENEST HIGHLY-URBANIZED CITY IN THE PHILIPPINES

  • Davao City received an award of excellence from the Office of the President as the 1st Runner-up in the Cleanest and Greenest Highly-Urbanized City in the Philippines-Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran Awards 2004, and the second runner up for three consecutive years in 2001-2003.

CLEANEST AND GREENEST CITY IN 1999

  • Davao City was awarded the Cleanest and Greenest City in 1999 for its clean and green program that focus on environmental rehabilitation, protection and conservation, intensification of solid waste management program, pollution control, re-greening of the urban areas, forest and watershed management.

MOST CHILD-FRIENDLY CITY IN THE PHILIPPINES

  • Davao City came out the runaway choice for the coveted spot in the first-ever selection of the Most Child-Friendly City in the Philippines in 1988 and 1999 due to its local government’s programs and initiatives directly benefiting the children.
  • It has also won nods for the initiative to pass a landmark legislation- the Davao City Children’s Welfare Code of 1994, the first of its kind in the country, specifically geared towards addressing the rights, services and protection of children, therefore upholding their welfare and interests in high regard.

MOST COMPETITIVE CITY TO DO BUSINESS IN THE PHILIPPINES

  • In 2002, Davao City was recognized as the Most Competitive City to do Business in the Philippines by the Asian Institute of Management  (AIM) Policy Center and the Department of Trade and Industry in their assessment of Philippine Cities Competitiveness. In 2003, Davao was also chosen 3rd Most Competitive Metro City in the Philippine Cities Competitiveness ranking.

MOST GENDER RESPONSIVE LGU IN THE PHILIPPINES

  • Gawad Galing Pook 2004 Awardee
  • National Commission on the Rights for Women (NCRFW) Award for
    Gender Responsive Local Governance 2005

HALL OF FAME, BEST PEACE AND ORDER COUNCIL IN THE PHILIPPINES

  • The National Peace and Order Council of the National Police Commission placed Davao City in the Hall of Fame in 2004 for winning Best Peace and Order Council in Region XI  for three consecutive years (1999-2002). It is recognition of Davao City’s sustained and exemplary accomplishments in implementing programs and projects of the Peace and Order Councils (POC’S) at various levels.

MOST OUTSTANDING LGU: Regional Literacy Awards and 2nd Place in the 2005 National Literacy Awards

  • The Department of  Education hailed Davao City as the “Most Outstanding Local Government Unit” in the 2005 National Literacy Awards”, all under the Highly Urbanized City Category.

REGIONAL GREEN BANNER AWARDEE

  • The National Nutrition Council of the Department of Agriculture awarded Davao City the “2004 Regional Green Banner” in recognition of the City Nutrition Committee’s exemplary performance in managing the nutrition program of the city, thereby contributing to the improvement of the nutritional status of its constituents.

TOP GOVERNMENT WITHOLDING AGENT

  • The Department of Finance, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Revenue Region 19, Revenue District No. 113, Davao City recognized the City Government for its invaluable  support and contribution to RDO 113 as the “Top Government Withholding Agent” by making substantial tax payment-an act of patriotism worthy of recognition and commendation.

TOP TOURIST DESTINATION IN THE PHILIPPINES

  • Davao City was chosen “Destination of the Year” by the Kalakbay Awards in 1997.

MOST OUTSTANDING CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN THE PHILIPPINES AND IN ASIA PACIFIC REGION

  • The Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCII) was bestowed the “ Most Outstanding Chamber Award for 2005” . DCCII was likewise recognized as the “Best Chamber in the Asia-Pacific Region” during a selection held in New Delhi in 2005.

MOST OUTSTANDING KBP CHAPTER IN THE PHILIPPINES

  • The Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas acknowledged its Davao City local chapter as the “Best KBP Chapter for 2004.” It was once again given recognition for winning “2nd Place for the Best Local Chapter Report.”

CLEANEST AIR IN THE WORLD-MEMBER OF THE CLEAN CITIES COALITION

  • In 2005, Davao City was launched as the second pilot area of the Clean Cities Program (CCP) implemented by the Sustainable Energy Development Program (SEDP), in partnership with the US Department of Energy (USDOE) and the US Agency for International Development (USAID)

 

We may have more awards that what I’ve gathered above. So feel free to write them down on the comment box below. 🙂

More than the awards though, I am thankful to the Local Government of Davao , specially to Mayor Rody Duterte for cleaning up Davao City. From a very scary place to one of the safest cities in the world, that’s not an easy task. And you did it Mayor.

You have declined citations , saying that you were just doing your job. Therefore a personal award is not needed. So I will just say, thank you for everything that you do to keep our city safe.

To those who have called Davaoenos , who believe in Mayor Duterte,  “Dutertards” or “fantards”, sorry but it does not bother me at all. One, because I know I am not a retard. Two, I live in one of the safest cities in the world and enjoying it. So I pity those who are not experiencing that. Three, I have a special child nephew who have more respect for others than those that resort to name callings. 🙂 And four, I have more class than you, regardless of how high you think of yourselves. So I forgive you for belittling and berating us. After all , I am a Davaoena. And so proud of it.

Before I end, my question is this – can you say the same for your city or your Mayor? If yes, then I am happy for you.

If not, then I rest my case. 🙂

 

 

 

 

Lea C. Walker

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Uncategorized | 3 Comments