5 Reasons to Choose BISUMI Tour & Services for Your Batanes Trip + Blog Review 2018

Posted on August 19, 2018September 7, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

You are probably reading this blog post as you are looking for the best and cheapest Batanes tour. I just want to clear that this is not a paid blog post by BISUMI Tour & Services. I’m writing this post because we enjoyed our Batanes trip and that was made possible by the tour we picked from BISUMI Tour & Services.

Here are my 5 reasons why you should choose this travel agency for your Batanes adventure:

1. Cheaper Batanes Tour Rates

Among various reliable travel agencies we have checked, BISUMI Tour & Services offer the cheapest rates.

2. Wide Array of Batanes Tour Packages to Choose From

If you are a solo traveller, with your special someone or with a group, you need not worry as BISIMU Tours has various Batanes tour options depending on PAX, choice of transportation, number of days and even choice of Batanes tourist destinations.

Since we were on a budget, we chose the cheapest Batanes exclusive tour rate – Tricycle tour for 5,000 Php per person.

Joining a group tour would be fun but I didn’t want the restrictions and time pressure touring Batanes with a group in a van. In most of my travels, I prefer tricycle tours as I get to experience fresh air and see breathtaking views. So, I was excited that we get to tour Batanes on a tricycle!

Here are the rest of Batanes tour options being offered by BISUMI Travel & Tours:

Took this photo in BISUMI office, Basco, Batanes

BISUMI - Batanes Tour Rates 2018 — BISUMI – Batanes Tour Rates 2018

The below rates are as of August 2018 and are based from BISUMI website:

4 Days & 3 Nights Tour (North Batan, South Batan & Sabtang) w/ Accommodation

Note: rates indicated are per person

Inclusions:

Basco Airport Transfers
3 nights accommodation
3 days join tour of North Batan, South Batan and Sabtang Island
full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
tour guide

All Government Fees & Permits
Van for tours and transfers
Tax Inclusive

3 Days & 2 Nights Tour (North Batan, South Batan & Sabtang) w/ Accommodation

Note: rates indicated are per person

Inclusions:

Basco Airport Transfers
2 nights accommodation
3 days join tour of North Batan, South Batan and Sabtang Island
full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
tour guide

All Government Fees & Permits
Van for tours and transfers
Tax Inclusive

3 Days Tour (North Batan, South Batan & Sabtang) – Exclusive/Private Tours

Note: rates indicated are per person

Inclusions:

Basco Airport Transfers
3 days join tour of North Batan, South Batan and Sabtang Island
all lunch during tours
tour guide

All Government Fees & Permits
Land transportation for tours and transfers
Tax Inclusive

Exclusions:

Ecotourism fee of 350 Php/person
Beverages (drinks) during meals
personal expenses or optional tours requested by guests

Rates:

2 PAX – 7999 Php/person
3 PAX – 5999 Php/Person
4 PAX – 5200 Php/Person
5 PAX – 4999 Php/Person
6 PAX or more – 4500 Php/Person

Affordable Join Tours

Inclusions:

Basco Airport Transfers
3 days join tour of North Batan, South Batan and Sabtang Island
all lunch during tours
tour guide

All Government Fees & Permits
Land transportation for tours and transfers
Tax Inclusive

Exclusions:

Ecotourism fee of 350 Php/person
Beverages (drinks) during meals
personal expenses or optional tours requested by guests

Rates:

North Batan Tour – 999 Php/person
South Batan Tour – 2000 Php/person
Sabtang Island Tour – 2000 Php/person

Affordable Batanes Tricycle Tours –

3 Days Tour (North Batan, South Batan & Sabtang)

Inclusions:

Basco Airport Transfers
3 days join tour of North Batan, South Batan and Sabtang Island
all lunch during tours
tour guide

All Government Fees & Permits
Land transportation for tours and transfers
Tax Inclusive

Exclusions:

Ecotourism fee of 350 Php/person
Beverages (drinks) during meals
personal expenses or optional tours requested by guests

Rates:

1 PAX – 6000 Php
2 PAX – 5000 Php/Person
4 PAX – 4500 Php/Person

Affordable Batanes Tricycle Tours – 2 Days Tour (North Batan & South Batan)

Rates:

1 PAX – 4500 Php
2 PAX – 4000 Php/Person
4 PAX – 3500 Php/Person

3. Friendly, Knowledgeable and Professional Local Tour Guides

Edwin was our tricycle driver for our North & South Batan tour. He was also our tour guide and photographer at the same time. Jen and I easily felt comfortable with Edwin as he was very friendly, polite and cheerful. We had fun touring and learning about different Batanes tourist spots as he is very knowledgeable. During our second day in Batanes, our Sabtang Island tour was cancelled due to bad weather. Edwin took the effort of personally informing us in our hotel ahead of time.

Related Blog Post: Amboy Hometel Batanes

Edwin also helped us searching for a restaurant with stock of lobsters. Sadly, lobsters were scarce as it was raining days before we arrived in Batanes.

Like Edwin, our Sabtang island tour guide/tricycle driver/photographer was very polite and professional. Jimmy even helped us carry a heavy backpack in Sabtang Island full of toys for my Travel with a Purpose Project.

4. Safe & Hassle-Free Tour

With Bisumi Travel & Tour Services, you don’t need to worry about anything. All the planning and ticketing will be taken cared of. When we availed for the 3-day Tricycle tour, we directly paid the ecotourism fee at their office instead of going to Batanes municipal hall. That saved us time and effort. Upon arrival in each and every tourist destination, we need not to worry about having our ecotourism booklet stamped. Our guide guide took in charge of it.

Since we visited Batanes on a rainy season, our tour guide prepared raincoats and umbrellas. It rained several times during our tour but the rain did not stop us with our itinerary. We felt grateful for choosing Bisumi when we encountered several tourists in a non-Bisumi tricycle tour not having raincoats.

Before embarking the boat to Sabtang Island, we were surprised that our guide was handing us high-quality life vests with BISUMI prints on it. Other non-Bisumi tourists got the usual cheap life vests.

5. Lunch and Freebies!

The tricycle tour we availed from BISUMI Tour & Services included lunch during our 3 days tour. We super enjoyed the food and the places our tour guides brought us for the free lunch.

Day 1: Lunch at Vonong — Lunch at Vonong

Okay, the exciting part was when the receptionist at BISUMI office informed us that there are freebies. We got postcards and bags in their office. Our guide brought us to BISUMI souvenir shop and we were given keychains, coin purse and bag tags as souvenirs!

Bisumi Tour & Services

For inquiries & reservations, contact 0919 2795963 or 0915 8034582
E-Mail: [email protected]

Food
...
- Metro Manila

Bench Clothing’s Restaurant? Bench Cafe BGC – Blog Review + Menu

Posted on June 1, 2018June 2, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

If you love fashion and are into 100% Filipino brand, you probably own a piece of clothing from the Philippine’s largest clothing brand – Bench. In 2018, the brand opened its flagship store in Bonifacio Global City. Apart from the huge retail store, the building is also home to its first ever restaurant – Bench Cafe.

Bonifacio High Street’s Newest Cafe

Bench Cafe, BGC, Taguig — Bench Cafe BGC

Bench Cafe is situated on second level of Bench Boutique BGC flagship store in 9th Street Lane O. It is along Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig. If you are walking along Bonifacio High Street, you can easily spot the Bench Boutique Store for its signature red and white store branding.

We were surprised and intrigued the moment we discovered about Bench Cafe. I must admit that I was a bit sceptic about Bench’s very first cafe/restaurant. The brand is undoubtedly the most popular in the Philippine’s fashion and clothing industry. But wasn’t really sure about their food. So Jen and I decided to try Bench Cafe.

Simple, Classy and Homey Interiors

Bench Cafe

bar

Bench Cafe’s interiors was not something I expected. Since it’s a cafe, I initially thought that the interiors would be like that of a typical coffee shop around Metro Manila. I was wrong. The interiors of this BGC cafe is simple, classy and homey. I personally love the golden hanging lamp ceiling lights. They give a classy vibe to the restaurant. The wall canvass art around the cafe provides a homey feel to its diners. The entire restaurant is very clean.

Glamorized Filipino Food

Just like the Bench clothing line which is 100% Filipino, Bench Cafe BGC serves 100% Filipino food with a twist. This BGC restaurant elevated and glamorized local favorite dishes.

On their menu are salads such as Pinoy Caprese (149 Php) and Shrimp Suha salad (239 Php), soups such as Tinola (119 Php) ang Monggo (119 Php), all-time favorite Filipino desserts like Classic Halo-Halo (13 Php) and Mais Con Yelo (89 Php).

Bench/To meals are the most popular on their menu. The Bench/To took inspiration to Japanese cuisine’s Bento meals. If you order a Bench/To meal, you will get 2 viands, Bench salsa, atsara and steamed Ifugao rice. You can choose among 10 Bench/To meals on their menu. If you are on a budget, the cheapest is meal number 2. At 299 Php, you get to enjoy their Lechon Kawali and Pinakbet. At 439 Php, Bench/To meal #10 is the most expensive. This meal consists of US Angus Short Ribs Bistek plus inihaw na pusit and gising-gising.

Since it was our first time in Bench Cafe BGC, I made sure to try my favorite kare-kare. I ordered Bench/To number 6, Bagnet kare-kare with bagoong and tortang talong that come with Bench salsa, atsara and steamed Ifugao rice. Bench Cafe’s kare-kare uses Bagnet instead of ox tail or pork hock. For my drinks, I ordered one of their special beverages – Pandan Latik Latte.

I should say that Bench Cafe’s kare-kare is very delicious! The bagnet is very crunchy and the kare-kare sauce is extraordinary! The Pandan Latik Latte was good.

Jen ordered her favorite beef tapa. Interestingly enough, the tapa is topped with vinegar bubbles. Bench Cafe’s food presentation made me feel we were in a fine dining restaurant.

Great Customer Service

I’m very particular with customer service. I expect to much especially to restaurants where food are not cheap. Fortunately, Bench Cafe did not disappoint. We were warmly welcomed by the staff the moment we arrived in the cafe. Most of the servers were pleasing and friendly.

Recommended Restaurant in BGC

If you are looking for Bench Cafe branches, unfortunately, you will only find Bench Cafe in BGC. So, if you happen to visit BGC, give Bench Cafe a try! This BGC restaurant serving local favorite dishes is truly promising!

Bench Cafe BGC Menu

Bench Cafe

Address: 2nd Floor Bench Boutique BGC Flagship Store, Bonifacio High Street
9th St. Lane O, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Philippines
Contact Number: 0917 702 1133

Cebu
...
- Food
- Travels

Where to eat in Bantayan Island Cebu? MJ Square, HR Native Restaurant, Tristan’s Pizza

Posted on May 12, 2018November 5, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Bantayan Island in Cebu is undoubtedly one of the must visit island in the Philippines. Like Boracay in Aklan and El Nido in Palawan, Bantayan Island is a popular tourist destination among locals and foreign tourists alike.

Where to Eat in Bantayan Island Cebu?

Bantayan Island is tourist ready. Just like Boracay, there is a number of restaurants, bars and café in the island.

Bantayan beach resorts such as Anika Island Resort, Hoyohoy Villas Resort and Beach Placid have their own restaurant. However, food their menu may be limited or more expensive. If you are a food adventurer, there are other food places and restaurants in the island. Below are my top 3 recommended places to satisfy your gastronomic adventures in Bantayan Island:

1. MJ Square

MJ Square is the most popular food place in Bantayan Island. Located in Santa Fe Poblacion, MJ Square is near to various beach resorts in the island. It is a few minute tricycle ride away from Anika Island Resort, Beach Placid Resort and Hoyohoy Villas. MJ Square is just a few minute walk from beach resorts such as Amihan Beach Cabanas, Ritzy’s White Beach Resort, Marlins Beach Resort and Yoonek Beach Resort and Kota Beach Resort.

MJ Square Bantayan Island Map
A food complex with various restaurants and cafes, MJ Square is definitely a go to place for food lovers and adventurers. This Bantayan Island food place offers a wide array of food choices.

Here is a short video of MJ Square in Santa Fe, Bantayan Island.

Complete list of restaurants in MJ Square:

Chef Panyang – This restaurant has the biggest area and has widest food options. Chef Panyang serves mostly Filipino dishes. If you are on a budget, Chef Panyang offers 59 Php (approx. $1.14) meal. It’s probably the cheapest meal you can have in the island. If you love seafood, they also have seafood all you can at only 299 Php (approx. $5.75).

Cupcake Island Cakery – If you love sweets, visit MJ Square’s Cupcake Island Cakery. This mini bakeshop offers various cakes that will truly satisfy your cravings.

Bantayan Burrito Company – This MJ Square restaurant serves Mexican cuisine and is Vegan friendly.
Shake Me – This small and colorful place in MJ Square is perfect if you are craving for ice cream or shakes in the island.

Channa’s Café & Wine – This mini cafe is a perfect place to hang-out with your Bantayan travel buddies. Channa’s Cafe serves hot & cold coffee and coffee based drinks. They also serve flavored beer. Their drinks are priced from 50 Php (approx $1.00) to 90 Php (approx. $1.80).

Tapa Master – This Bantayan Island restaurant’s speciality is gourmet and exotic Tapas ranging from 89 Php (approx. $1.72) to 269 Php (approx. $5.17). They also offer sisig and various types of sausages.

Hallas Taverna
Stix Smoke House
Paradiso Snack Bar
Sarapoi
Liquido – If you love to drink, Liquido serves various alcoholic drinks.
Hello Spank
All Time Fry

During our 4 days and 4 night stay in Bantayan Island, we had most of our meals at MJ Square. I highly recommend Tapa Master as they serve great breakfast!

Overall, you will love MJ Square’s wide array of food choices. This is the go to place if you are on a budget. The idea of food complex is good as you get to befriend other tourists in the area. The only downside are the flies in the complex.

2. HR Music Bar & Native Restaurant

Located in A. Batobalonos St., HR Native Restaurant is just a few meters away from MJ Square. This restaurant has a wide array of offerings on their menu. They serve seafood, pork, beef, vegetables, pizzas, sandwiches, cold drinks and cocktails.

HR Native Restaurant Map

HR Native Restaurant was the very first restaurant we visited in Bantayan island as it was recommended by our tricycle driver. We later did not regret to dine at HR as their baked scallops in Mozarella cheese (225 Php – approx. $4.50) was very delicious! I should say that it’s the best tasting baked scallops I’ve tried so far.

HR Native Restaurant Menu

Overall, HR Native Restaurant is a good food place in the island. The native ambiance makes the dining experience special. Their baked scallops is a must try!

3. Tristan’s Pizza Hauz and Restaurant

Tristan’s Pizza Hauz & Restaurant is another must visit restaurant in Bantayan Island. Located in F. Roska street and is near to various beach resorts in Santa Fe. Jen and I were very lucky to have met the owner of Tristan’s Pizza Hauz. We learned from her that the place used to be a resort and restaurant. After the typhoon Yolanda, she had to give up the resort and only retained its restaurant.

We ordered their best seller mixed seafood pizza for 450 Php (approx. $8.82). It was a surprise that the pizza is generously topped with mozzarella cheese and seafood (especially shrimps). We super loved the pizza! I should say that it’s one of the best seafood pizza I had!

Apart from pizzas, this underrated food place in Bantayan Island also serves breakfast meals, salads, pastas, rice meals, snacks and beers.

Overall, Tristan’s Pizza Hauz is a must visit for pizza lovers! The place may not be as popular as MJ Square and other restaurants in Bantayan Island, but is definitely one of the islan’s best food place!

Cebu
...
- Travels

How to get to Bantayan Island from Manila or Cebu City + Travel Tips, Bus and Ferry Schedule

Posted on April 9, 2018April 9, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Bantayan Island is one among the countless beautiful islands in the Philippines. This must visit Philippine tourist destination is situated in the Visayan sea and is in the West part of the Northern end of Cebu. Just like Boracay, Bantayan island boasts its fine white sand beaches.

How to get to Bantayan Island From Manila

Here’s a short video on how to get to Bantayan Island:

1. Manila Airport to Cebu Airport

Fly from Manila to Cebu. Take a flight from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Cebu’s Mactan International Airport. Travel time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

2. Cebu Airport to Cebu North Bus Terminal

In Mactan International Airport, hail a taxi cab going to Cebu North Bus Terminal. Travel time is approximately 1 hour and fare is approximately 150 Php.

3. Cebu North Bus Terminal to Hagnaya Port

In Cebu North Bus Terminal, take a RORO bus direct to Bantayan Island. These buses will bring you to Bantayan Island via Hagnaya Port. Travel time from Cebu North Bus Terminal to Hagnaya Port is approximately 3 hours. Fare is 225 Php.

Bus trip schedule from Cebu North Bus Terminal to Hagnaya Port

Ceres Liner cater Bantayan direct trips. For the bus trip schedule please refer to “Bus trip to Hagnaya Port” section of the table below.

Bus trip to Hagnaya Port		Ferry Departure (Hagnaya Port to Bantayan Island)
1st Trip	11:45 PM	4:00 AM
2nd Trip	12:15 AM	4:00 AM
3rd Trip	3:00 AM	7:30 AM
4th Trip	6:00 AM	10:30 AM
5th Trip	8:00 AM	12:30 PM
6th Trip	10:00 AM	2:30 PM
Last Trip	12:00 PM	4:30 PM

4. Hagnaya Port to Santa Fe Port, Bantayan Island

In Hagnaya Port, bus passengers are asked to get off the bus, buy ferry ticket and pay for the terminal me. You may leave your luggage or backpack in the bus while buying your ferry ticket and paying for the terminal fee.

The bus will onboard the ferry first. Once the bus has onboarded, passengers are asked to onboard the ferry.

Ferry Ticket – 180 Php
Terminal Fee – 20 Php

Super Shuttle Ferry Schedule (Departure time in Hagnaya Port)

For the ferry schedule, refer to “Ferry Departure (Hagnaya Port to Bantayan Island)” section of the table below:

Bus trip to Hagnaya Port		Ferry Departure (Hagnaya Port to Bantayan Island)
1st Trip	11:45 PM	4:00 AM
2nd Trip	12:15 AM	4:00 AM
3rd Trip	3:00 AM	7:30 AM
4th Trip	6:00 AM	10:30 AM
5th Trip	8:00 AM	12:30 PM
6th Trip	10:00 AM	2:30 PM
Last Trip	12:00 PM	4:30 PM

Ferry travel time from Hagnaya Port to Santa Fe Port in Bantayan island is approximately 1 hour.

The ferry will dock to Santa Fe Port. The bus will offboard the ferry first. After the bus has offboarded, passengers are asked to ride the bus.

Just inform the bus driver and fare collector to drop you at Bantayan Tourism office which is few meters away from the port. From there, go inside the tourism office and pay 30 Php for the environmental fee.

Travel Tips:

Carefully plan your trip going to Bantayan Island. The total travel time from Cebu’s Mactan International Airport to Hagnaya Port is approximately 4 hours. Last trip from Hagnaya Port to Bantayan Island is at 4:30 PM. Thus, you should be in Mactan International Airport earlier than 12:00 PM to catch the last Ferry trip to Bantayan Island.

If you are coming from Manila, the total travel time to Bantayan Island could take up to 8 hours. That includes the waiting time in airport and terminals. If you are not pressed of time, you can spend your first day in Cebu City instead and travel to Bantayan Island the next day.

There are two types of taxis in Mactan International Airport. The yellow ones are airport taxis and the white ones are public taxis. Yellow taxis are more expensive.

In Cebu North Bus terminal, they charge 10 Pesos for person upon entry in terminal. We assumed that these are terminal fee.

The 3-hour bus ride from Cebu North Bus Terminal to Hagnaya port has 2 stopovers where passengers can take quick meals or have a toilet break. If you are a smoker, the stopovers have smoking area.

Where to Stay in Bantayan Island

Budget Beach Resort

Midrange to High-End Beach Resort

View from the beachfront villa — Hoyohoy Villas Resort

accommodation
...

Cheap Beach Resort in Bantayan Island Cebu – Beach Placid Resort Review

Posted on March 24, 2018June 8, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Beach Placid Resort in Bantayan Island Cebu is the perfect beach resort for backpackers and budget travelers. Located along the stretch of Sta. Fe beach, Beach Placid Resort share the same shore with other more expensive and pricey resorts such as Anika Island Resort and Hoyohoy Villas. Meaning, you get to enjoy the fine white sands and pristine waters of Santa Fe Bantayan Island without emptying your pocket.

Here is a short video of Beach Placid Resort:

Beach Placid Bantayan Island Cebu Philippines

Open Cottages, Beach Beds and Cabanas

Being a budget-friendly Bantayan resort, staying in Beach Placid will not limit you to enjoy and relax by the beach. There are open cottages, beach beds and cabanas in this affordable Bantayan beach resort. During our stay, we made use of their cottages and cabana by the beach without any charges.

Beachfront Surprise!

Jen enjoying the beachfront view on our room's veranda. — Jen enjoying the beachfront view on our room’s veranda.

Unlike other Bantayan beach resorts where beachfront rooms are quite expensive, Beach Pacid’s are affordable. We did not expect too much on the room we booked via Agoda as the fine print says it’s a Beach View Cottage. With the price, we assumed that we are getting a non-beachfront room. However, we were surprised that the room was on a beachfront!

We checked-in at 3 beach resorts during our 4-day visit in Bantayan Island. We stayed at non-beachfront rooms of Anika Island Resort and Hoyohoy Villas Resort. But the cheapest accommodation we had was a beachfront room at Beach Placid.

Beach Placid’s Beach View Cottage (Beachfront Room)

Since we experienced Anika Island Resort’s accommodation prior to Beach Placid. I should say that our room at Anika Island Resort was better than what we had at Beach Placid. Nonetheless, the room was good and are truly for backpackers and budget-travelers.

room

toilet and bath

The Beach View Cottage we booked has a small veranda and a bench. If you are a smoker, the resort allows smoking in the veranda. The room comes with an air-conditioning unit, queen size bed, a small refrigerator and a dresser. The toilet and bath is quite spacious. Toilet has no bidet but there is a hot and cold shower. Only bath towels and tissue roll are provided so make sure to bring toiletries when you are checking-in at the resort.

I personally love the view once you open the door of the room. It is relaxing as you directly see the breathtaking beach and enjoy the relaxing sea winds right on your door. This what makes Beach Placid stand out from Anika or Hoyohoy, you get to experience a beachfront room at an affordable price!

Beach Placid Bantayan Island Room Rates

Below are the published room rates of Beach Placid Resort:

Note: We booked our discounted Beach Placid beachfront room online. I am giving you a discounted room rate by booking HERE.

Room Type	PAX	Price	Price (during holy week)
Quadruple Room #19	4 to 5 persons	3,000 Php	6,000 Php
Quadruple Room #20	3 to 5 persons	2,500 Php	5,000 Php
Quadruple Room #21 and #22	2 to 3 persons	1,700 Php	3,400 Php
Native Sea View Cottage	2 persons	1,800 Php	3,600 Php
Non-beachfront Aircon Cottage	4 persons	3,000 Php	6,000 Php
Non-beachfront Triplex	4 persons	3,000 Php	6,000 Php
Beachfront Duplex Rooms	4 persons	3,500 Php	7,000 Php
Beachfront Native Aircon Cottage	2 persons	2,300 Php	4,600 Php
Beachfront – Triplex Room	2 persons	2,300 Php	4,600 Php
Non-Beachfront Aircon Cottage	2 persons	1,700 Php	3,400 Php

Well Maintained Bantayan Island Beach Resort

Beach Placid Resort is well-maintained. During our entire stay, there are always someone who is around the resort. Since we visited on a season where winds push seaweeds on the shore, the staff ensures to always clean the beachfront.

Activities in Beach Placid

Beach Placid also offers island hopping tour at an affordable price. For only 900 Php, you get to enjoy Hilantagaan and Virgin Island. The boatman will pick you up right in the shore of Beach Placid. Note that rates outside the resort can go as low as 800 Php. We decided to take Beach Placid’s island hopping tour to ensure our safety.

If you get hungry, Beach Placid Resort has an open-air restaurant with affordable menu. They also have a bar and offers free karaoke (videoke) if you purchase sodas, shakes or any alcoholic beverages. If you want to relax, Beach Placid also offers in-room or by the beach massage service for only 350 Php.

Affordable Bantayan Resort with Great Customer Service

Being a budget beach resort, I did not expect anything grand about Beach Placid. I was not impressed by the reception when we checked-in at Anika but Beach Placid’s reception was different. The receptionists were very friendly and welcoming. They even allowed us to leave our bags in the reception as we were too early for the check-in.

Highly Recommended Resort in Bantayan for Budget Travellers and Backpackers

I highly recommend Beach Placid Resort if you are a backpacker or on a budget. Their rooms may not be as grand as Anika Island Resort and Hoyohoy Villas Resort, but are decent enough for the price. The entire beach resort is clean. Customer service is great. And of course, their rooms are very affordable. Truly the best Bantayan beach resort for budget travellers!

Jen and I spotted these kids in the resort’s vicinity. We were happy to have distributed the toys we brought to the island. – Travel with a Purpose

Beach Placid Resort
Adress: F. Roska Street, Santa Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu, Philippines
Contact Numbers:
(63)32-406-5686
(63)32-438-9070
(63)917-722-2993
Email Address:
[email protected]
[email protected]

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accommodation
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- Cebu
- Hotel
- hotel review

Hoyohoy Villas – Boutique Beach Resort in Bantayan Island Cebu, Philippines + Blog Review, Room Rates

Posted on March 4, 2018June 8, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Hoyohoy Villas is one among the many resorts in the beautiful Bantayan Island in Cebu, Philippines. The only boutique resort in Bantayan Island, Hoyohoy Villas showcases unique villas, beautiful landscapes and peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Here’s a short video of Hoyohoy Villas Bantayan Island:

Strategic Location

Located in F. Roska St., Talisay, Hoyohoy Villas is very near Santa Fe port – the gateway of Bantayan Island. Hoyohoy Villas is just 5-minute tricycle or motorcycle ride away from the port. Meaning, you will not have to endure long travel to the resort once you arrive in Bantayan Island.

This Bantayan resort is also near to Sante Fe Poblacion where the public market, souvenir shops, church and most of the bars and restaurants are located.

Perfect Bantayan Resort for Relaxation

If you are looking for a resort to relax, Hoyohoy Villas is the best resort in Bantayan Island. With only 6 villas and 2 casitas rooms, Hoyohoy Villas is definitely less crowded compared to more popular resorts in the island. The peaceful ambiance makes Hoyohoy Villas stand out among the rest of Bantayan beach resorts.

The resort’s beachfront has 2 stylish beach beads, 2 cabanas with pillows and mattresses and a wooden swing chair. There are also beach beds with leather mattresses around the resort’s vicinity.

Our favorite spot in Hoyohoy Villas!q — Our favorite spot in Hoyohoy Villas!

During our stay in Hoyohoy Villas, we felt like we rented the entire resort. There are only few guests and we rarely see them hanging out in the beachfront.

Unique Architecture and Beautiful Landscape

Being a boutique resort, Hoyohoy Villas will not disappoint you. It may be limited in real estate but it’s Instagram worthy surroundings compensates. Its villas are unique and the entire resort’s landscape is truly promising. The six villas in stilts are carefully arranged providing a good view of the stylish swimming pool right in the heart of the resort.

The Villas

Hoyohoy Villas has a total of 6 rice granary inspired villas. 5 of which have single rooms and the other villa has 2 rooms. The villas are named after various kinds of winds:

Habagat (Southwest wind) – beachfront villa
Amihan (Cool Northeast Monsoon) – beachfront villa
Timog (Southwind)
Kanaway (Northwestern wind) – has 2 rooms
Syatan (Southwestern wind)
Kadulhoan (Southeastern wind)

Interestingly enough, villas invoke elegance of the past combined with comfort of the present. This creates a truly relaxing atmosphere during your stay in the resort. Each villa has a unique concept and are all simple and elegant. Rooms come with air-conditioning unit, cable TV, minibar, telephone for the reception. Toilet and batch comes with hot tub.

High-End Resort with Budget-Friendly Room Options

Hoyohoy Villas is one of the few high-end resorts in Bantayan Island. There is undoubtedly a price to pay for the resort’s beautiful landscapes, unique villas, breathtaking beachfront, peaceful ambiance and great customer service. A villa is priced from 5,000 Php (approx. $100) to 6,000 Php (approx. $120). However, if you are on a budget and want to stay at Hoyohoy Villas, they offer 2 affordable and budget-friendly “Casitas Frangipani” rooms at only 3,000 Php a night.

Hoyohoy Villas Room Rates

Beachfront Villas (good for 2 persons)– 6,000 Php
Regular Villas(good for 2 persons) – 5,000 Php
Casitas Frangipani (good for 2 persons) – 3,000 Php

Tip: Instead of paying the publish room rate, you can enjoy huge discounts by booking your Hoyohoy villa/room HERE.

Hoyohoy Villas’ Casitas Room

The 2 Casitas rooms are located near the entrance and right before the reception of the resort. It is technically the farthest from the beachfront but near the reception and restaurant. Being farthest to the beachfront is not an issue since you get to pass by and enjoy the beautiful landscape and architecture of the resort when you’re going to the beachfront.

Unlike the villas which scream elegance, Casitas rooms are simple and modern. The matching finish of doors and ceiling adds up to the modern feel. The white walls compliment to the floor of the entire room.

Casitas

A Casitas room comes with an air-conditioning unit with remote, bed side glass tables, night lamps and stylish sofa. The bed and the 2 ordinary and 2 goose down pillows are very comfortable. There is also an interesting art piece above the bed headboard.

Hot and cold shower

toilet

The toilet and bath was a surprise! Once you open the sliding door, the shower area with a natural light ceiling will greet you. The Zen like look and feel of the shower area is truly surprising! On the right of the shower area is the vanity area with huge mirror and basic Hoyohoy Villas toiletries. On the left is the toilet area accentuated by the wall art and a cool ladder-like towel rack.

Jen and I originally wanted a villa because of the outdoor shower. Since a villa is too expensive for us, we booked a Casistas room instead. Well, the Casitas room did not disappoint! We felt like we were staying in a hotel.

As of March 2018, there are only 2 available Casitas rooms and another 2 are under construction.

Tip: We paid 2,700+ Pesos (approx. $54) instead of 3,000 Php (approx. $60)for the Casitas Frangipani Room. You too can enjoy a discounted villa/room by booking HERE.

Hoyohoy Villas’ Beachfront Villa (Amihan)

Beachfront Villa Habagat (rightmost villa) — Beachfront Villa Amihan (rightmost villa)

One of the two beachfront villas in Hoyohoy Villas is “Amihan”. The Villa Amihan’s ground level comes with a Spanish colonial era inspired furnitures and fixtures such as dining set, cabinet and a treasure chest and a single bed.

best room in bantayan island cebu philippines

The second level is an elegant room with an air-conditioning unit, cable TV, mini refrigerator, bench, bed side table with a stylish lamp, human size mirror, dinette set, wooden speaker and a stylish sofa. I personally love the flat screen cable TV placed in an easel. Just like its ground level, the room’s Filipino-Spanish colonial inspired design is truly elegant. Something that art and history lovers will love!

Just like the Casitas room, the villa’s toilet and bath is also a surprise! It comes with the basic Hoyohoy Villas toiletries, bath tub and an outdoor garden shower!

Superb Customer Service

We checked-in at 3 beach resorts during our 4-day Bantayan Island visit – Anika Island Resort, Beach Placid and Hoyohoy Villas. Among these 3 Bantayan beach resorts, I should say that Hoyohoy Villas has the best customer service!

Welcome drinks — Leah, one of the staff, serves the welcome drinks

We were warmly and greeted upon our arrival in the resort. After the fast check-in, Leah, one of the resort’s staff, surprised us by serving welcome drinks. We also borrowed a knife, pate and forks for the mangoes we bought outside. They did not hesitate and immediately provided our request.

All the staff are accommodating and polite. Throughout our stay, given that we booked their cheapest room, we felt special and valued just like other guests who were staying in the more expensive villas.

I even asked Leah if I can take photos and videos of one of their villas. After waiting for a couple of minutes, they granted my request! I was able to check-out their most expensive beachfront villa!

Lastly, we were a bit beyond the 12 PM check-out as we were still packing our things. They allowed us to stay a little longer without extra cost. They even proactively arranged a tricycle that will bring us to the Santa Fe port right after our check-out.

Highly Recommended Bantayan Beach Resort

I would definitely recommend Hoyohoy Villas if you are visiting Bantayan Island in Cebu. Location is strategic. The resort’s atmosphere is serene and peaceful. The villas are beautiful and elegant and the Casitas rooms are neat and stylish. And of course, customer service is great! I would definitely check-in here on my next Bantayan Island visit!

Hoyohoy Villas Bantayan Island

Address: F Roska St. Bgy. Talisay, Santa Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu
Contact Numbers: (032) 3240208 / (032) 4389018
E-mail: [email protected]
Online booking with discounted room rates HERE

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Anika Island Resort in Bantayan Island Cebu + Review, Room Rates

Posted on March 2, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Anika Island Resort is one among the best resorts in Bantayan Island Island, Cebu, Philippines. Located in Santa Fe, this Bantayan Island resort is very near to Sta.Fe Port Ferry – gateway of Bantayan island if you are coming from mainland Cebu.

Anika Island Resort Bantayan Island Cebu Philippines — Anika Island Resort, Bantayan Island, Cebu Philippines

Highly Rated Bantayan Island Resort

Annika Island Resort is a highly rated resort in Bantayan island. The average ratings of guests who have visited Anika Island Resort are higher compared to other resorts in the island. Below are the average ratings of Anika Island Resort as of March 1, 2018:

Tripadvisor – 4 out of 5 (Excellent)
Agoda – 8.4 out of 10 (Excellent)
Travelbook – 4.6 out of 5 (Excellent)

The rating and reviews made us decide to book Anika Island Resort for our first night in Bantayan Island. For a discounted room rate, we booked our Anika Island Resort cottage via Travelbook. Like us, you too can enjoy huge discounts by booking HERE or HERE.

Hassle Free Check-In

Upon arriving in Sta.Fe port, we hailed a tricycle to bring us to Anika Island Resort. Travel time from port to the resort is roughly 5 minutes. Fare is 20 Php ($0.40) per person.

The check-in process was a breeze. I just told them that I booked thru Travelbook. The Anika Island Resort reception asked me to fill-out a short guest information form. And that’s it! They did not bother to ask for the booking reference number.

Good Customer Service

Most online reviews indicate that Anika Island Resort has good customer service. The reception experience upon our check-in was okay but Jason, the staff who assisted us to our room, made us feel very special. He was very polite and helpful. Jason carried our bags while heading us to our cottage. He even shared useful information about the tourists attractions and some useful tips during our stay in the island. Apart from Jason, the staff especially the guards were very helpful. The check-out was also a breeze and the staff in the reception were very friendly.

Iconic Sun-Basking Area

Anika Bantayan Island Cebu Philippines — Anika Island Resort

Among all Bantayan Island Resorts, Anika Island Resort has the most beautiful and iconic beach bed area. They have this huge Anika signage which is guests and passers-by have their pictures taken.

Unique and Neatly Arranged Cottages

Anika Island Resort’s property is small in land area. However, they utilized its limited real estate and ensured that the swimming pool, cottages and other facilities are strategically situated. Also, this Bantayan resort has unique and beautiful cottages which walls are primarily made of container vans.

Well-Kept Surroundings and Beachfront

Common areas such as the beachfront, garden and restaurant are always clean. During our entire stay at Anika Island Resort, we often see resort’s staff cleaning around the resort. Since we visited on a season where there are seaweeds in the beachfront, there is a designated staff who makes sure to clean and remove the seaweeds on the shore.

Anika Island Resort’s Garden View Room

Garden View Cottages Anika Resort Bantayan

Since an Ocean View Room is too pricey for us, we opted to book a Garden View Room via Travelbook. We booked the room at 2,544 Php (approx. $50.88) instead of 2,700 Php (approx. $54).

Garden View Room Anika Bantayan

arden View Room Anika Bantayan

The room or should I say the cottage has a veranda with a dinette set. This is also the area in your cottage where smoking is allowed. The room comes with an LCD cable TV, air-conditioning unit, closet and safe deposit box. We personally loved the comfortable bed and 3 pillows. Our only rant is the Wifi which we weren’t able to use to slow internet connection.

The toilet and bath come with bath towels, soap and toothpaste. There is hot and cold shower and the toilet has a bidet. The water pressure was good too. Overall, the room and the toilet and bath are very clean.

View from our cottage's veranda — View from our cottage’s veranda

Anika Island Resort Room Rates

Anika Island Resort easily gets fully booked even lean-season. Book your Anika room in advance H ERE or HERE.

Ocean View Room

These are beachfront rooms in the resort. Nearest to the iconic beach bed area of Anika Island Resort. An Ocean View Room is good for 3 persons and costs 4,000 Php (approx. $80) a night.

Garden View Room

These rooms are situated right behind the Ocean View Rooms but still near the beach. Guests in these rooms will enjoy the garden view of the resort. If you have kids, these rooms are also the nearest to the resort’s playground. A Garden View Room is good for 2 persons at 2,700 Php (approx. $54) a night.

Sunset Pool Side

Sunset Pool Side Rooms are the nearest to the resort’s pool. These rooms remind me of Boracay’s Hennan Prime Beach Resort direct pool access rooms. With 2 single bed, veranda and view of the resort’s pool at 2,900 Php (approx. $58) a night.

Beach Villa

Choose from a single detached villa good for 3 persons for 4,200 Php (approx. $84) or duplex villa good for 3 persons at 3,700 Php (approx. $74) a night.

Courtyard Room

Situated at the back part of the resort. These are the rooms nearest to the entrance of Anika Island Resort. These are the cheapest rooms in the resort at 2,000 Php (approx. $40) a night.

Recommended Bantayan Beach Resort

Overall, I would recommend Anika Island Beach Resort to anyone who is visiting Bantayan Island in Cebu. The entire resort and the cottages are well-maintained. Customer service is good. And of course the beach is awesome!

Anika Island Resort

Address: F. Roska St., Brgy. Okoy
Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island 6047
Cebu, Philippines
Mobile: (+63) 917 328 4898 / (+63) 999 886 4465 / (+63) 922 843 9517
Telephone: (+63 32) 438-9073

Email: [email protected]

Discounted online booking HERE / HERE

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Pensionne La Florentina – Cheap Accommodation in Cebu City near Ayala Mall

Posted on February 23, 2018February 23, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Pensionne La Florentina is one among the cheapest and best pension houses in Cebu City. This 4 storey pension house with 15 rooms is a popular accommodation among budget travelers and backpackers visiting Cebu City, Philippines.

Good Location

Situated along the quiet street of Acacia corner Escario, Pensionne La Florentina is a perfect accommodation to those who want peaceful and quiet surroundings. This Cebu City pension house also provides easy access to various tourist destinations in the city.

Ayala Mall is just a few minute walk from Pensionne La Florentina.

Pensionne La Florentina Location Map
Homey Feel

Pensionne La Florentina’s facade screams hostel instead of a pension house. I personally love the wooden veranda-like design on each room’s facade. The fusion of old and modern design makes its facade truly eye-catching.

The property has a small wooden gate where the security guard is usually manning. Upon entrance, on the right is the reception area and on the left is a mini open hang-out place with wooden furnitures. In between is a glass door that serves as the main entrance of the building.

I should say that I did not expect much as Pensionne La Florentina’s rates are cheaply priced. Surprisingly, its lobby or should I say common area gives its guests a homey vibe. Most of the furnishings and fixtures are wooden. The antique fixtures and wooden furnitures will make you feel you’re traveling back Spanish-colonial era.

Clean, Simple and Homey Room

As expected from a budget accommodation, there is nothing fancy in the room. The twin bedroom we booked via Agoda is very clean and well-maintained. There is a small old school TV with clear cable channels. The air-conditioning unit looks old but works perfectly. The beds and pillows are not first class but are definitely comfortable enough for a good night sleep. We personally loved the soft linens and pillow cases.

Just like the facade and common areas, the room has a homey vibe. I felt like I was just staying at a friend’s room. I love the lightning as it gives more homey atmosphere in the room. As for the comfort room, it is very clean as well. Shower towels, toilet papers and soap are also provided.

Pensionne La Florentina Room Rates

An overnight stay in this Cebu city pension house is very affordable. At only 1,050 Pesos (approximately $21), you can choose from their Twin Bedroom or Double Bedroom.

Tip: Get discounts when you book your Pensionne La Florentina room HERE.

Facilities

24 hour front desk
24 hour security
WiFi in common areas
parking space
cleaning, laundry and ironing services (from 8 AM to 8PM only)
smoking areas in balcony

Tips

Book in advance and get discounted room rates HERE.
Upon check-in, ask the receptionist for a room situated on the second floor. Note that the pension house has 4 levels and there is no elevator.
Pensionne La Florentina are for budget travelers and backpackers. Do not check-in here if you are expecting fancy and high-end rooms and amenities.

Recommended Pension House in Cebu City

Pensionne La Florentina is definitely not the typical expensive hotel around Cebu City.The entire place is clean, well-maintained and has its own charm. With its room affordability, location and security I should say that this pension house if value for your money!

Pensionne La Florentina

Address: Acacia Street corner Escario Street, Gororodo Avenue, Cebu City
Contact Numbers: 2313381 / 2326738
Online Booking HERE

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Look: Kape Brew – Local Coffee Shop in Taguig

Posted on February 3, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

Kape Brew is one among the few promising local coffee shops in the Taguig City. Located along Levi B. Mariano avenue, Usuasan, Taguig City, Kape Brew is a few minute drive from The Nest Taguig, Taguig City Hall, All Home Taguig, Camella Grenville and Acacia Estates. This humble coffee shop is walking distance from Tres Palmas Condominium, Hafele, Panglao Oasis and Taguig Medical Center.

Kape Brew’s façade is truly eye-catching. The huge signage engraved in wood makes it stand out in the area. You wouldn’t miss Kape Brew when you’re passing by Levi Mariano. If you are bringing a car, note that there is only a limited parking space in front of Ministop.

Unlike the more popular and commercialized coffee shops, Kape Brew’s limited real estate makes it private and quiet. A perfect place to read, study or even work while enjoying coffee. Truly a haven to those who do not want crowded and noisy cafes.

Simple and Homey Interior

Being a local coffee shop, I was not really expecting fancy interiors when we entered Kape Brew. Surprisingly, it’s interior is well thought of. Chairs and tables are carefully arranged. The furniture and fixtures are consistent with the huge Café Brew signage on its facade. Given its small space, the entire coffee shop looks spacious. I personally love the wooden tables and chairs along with the wall writing quotes and art. Overall, the interior is simple, clean and homey.

Affordable Coffee Shop

We checked out the menu and were surprised that their coffee and food offerings are very affordable! Since we visited after lunch, we weren’t able to try their food. We ordered Wintermelon Milktea (90 Php) and Salted Caramel Frapuccino (135 Php) instead.

Kape Brew's milk tea and frap — Kape Brew’s Wintermelon Milk Tea and Salted Caramel frap

Kape Brew Menu

Cold Drinks
	Small (12 oz)	Big (16 oz)
Iced Latte	100	110
Iced Mocha	110	120
Iced Chocolate	110	120
Iced Matcha Latte	110	120
Iced Caramel Macchiato	110	120
Wintermelon Milk Tea	–	90

Frappuccino
Classic Mocha	120	130
Classic Chocolate Cream	120	130
Chocolate Java Chip	125	135
Cookies & Cream	125	135
Salted Caramel	125	135
Matcha Cream	125	135
Hot Drinks
Espresso	Single 25	Double 75

	Short (8 oz)	Tall (12 oz)
Americano	80	90
Latte	90	100
Cappuccino	90	100
Mocha	95	105
Caramel Macchiato	95	105
Classic Hot Chocolate	95	105
Matcha	90	100
Tea	70	–

All Day Breakfast

Beef Tapa with garlic rice & egg	150
Classic Adobo with garlic rice & egg	150
Pork Embutido with garlic rice	120
Spam with garlic rice & egg	120
Chicken Sausage with garlic rice & egg	100
Pasta (with 2 pcs. Garlic bread)
Beef Lasagna	150
Baked Macaroni	150
Pesto Pasta	150
Bread
Pandesal with homemade chicken spread and lettuce	90
Pandesal with smap, egg and lettuce	90

Kape Brew Loyalty Card

This must visit Taguig coffee shop also offers perks to their loyal customers. They now have a loyalty card where you can get 50% off on any beverage and even get free beverage and pastry. Just make sure you have your loyalty card signed every you visit Kape Brew.

Highly Recommended Coffee Shop in Taguig

If you are visiting Taguig city, I would highly recommend Kape Brew. The place is nice, calm and peaceful. As for the service, the owner along with the baristas are very welcoming and accommodating. Coffee and food on their menu are very affordable! So, forget the mainstream coffee shops in the area and give Kape Brew a try!

Kape Brew

Tres Palmas Commercial Arcade, Levi Mariano Ave., Ususan, Taguig
Contact Numbers: 8744172 / 09052347929 / 09957227880

Travels

Philippine Holidays 2018 – Regular, Special Non Working & Additional Special Non Working Holidays

Posted on January 14, 2018January 14, 2018by One Armed Wanderer

2018 is indeed a Happy New Year due to numerous public holidays and long weekends. There are 10 regular holidays and 5 of which fall on either Monday or Friday. For special non-working and additional non-working holidays, there are 9 and 4 of which fall on Monday and Friday.

Complete list of Philippine Holidays 2018

Regular Holidays

January
- January 1, 2018 (Monday) – New Year’s Day

February
- No regular holiday
March
- March 29, 2018 (Thursday) – Maundy Thursday
- March 30, 2018 (Friday) – Good Friday

April
- April 9, 2018 (Monday) – Araw ng Kagitingan
May
- May 1, 2018 (Tuesday) – Labor Day
June
- June 12, 2018 (Tuesday) – Independence Day
July
- No regular holiday
August
- August 27, 2018 (Monday) – National Heroes Day
September
- No regular holiday
October
- No regular holiday
November
- November 30, 2018 (Friday) – Bonifacio Day
December
- December 25, 2018 (Tuesday) – Christmas Day
- December 30, 2018 (Sunday) – Rizal Day

Special Non-Working Days

January
- No special non-working day
February
- February 16, 2018 (Friday) – Chinese New Year
- February 25, 2018 (Sunday) – EDSA Revolution Anniversary
March
- March 31, 2018 (Saturday) – Black Saturday
April
- No special non-working day
May
- No special non-working day
June
- No special non-working day
July
- No special non-working day
August
- August 21, 2018 (Tuesday) – Ninoy Aquino Day
September
- No special non-working day
October
- No special non-working day
November
- November 1, 2018 (Thursday) – All Saints’ Day
December
- December 31, 2018 (Monday) – Last day of the year

Additional Special Non-Working Days

November 2, 2018 (Friday) – All Souls’ Day
December 24, 2018 (Monday) – Christmas Eve

With all these holidays and long weekends, you better plan your travels this early. Buy your plane tickets, book your hotels and cross out items in your 2018 travel bucket list!

Note that above list of 2018 Philippine Holidays is in line with Republic Act (RA) Number 9492 dated July 24, 2007 amended Section 26, Chapter 7, Book I of Executive Order (EO) Number 292, also known as the Administrative Code of 1987. For reference please visit 2018 Philippine Holidays Official Gazette.