Puerto Del Sol- Bolinao

Since it's a long weekend, we decided to go on a road trip. Original plan was to go to Baguio then Vigan then Laoag, but we ended up in Bolinao, Pangasinan. We were never disappointed for we know that it's one of the unspoiled places in Luzon. 

We left Manila without any resort reservations, so I checked out some resort on my lappy while we were on the road. Thank goodness for whoever invented the internet! We stopped by a stall in Lingayen, Pangasinan for this treat. I forgot the name but it's like TUPIG- a native delicacy made with glutinous rice and grated coconut, only difference is, it's round and not wrapped in banana leaves.

It's sweet and has a smoky flavour

The oven :))

When we arrived at Bolinao, we went straight to Puerto Del Sol. Their website says "Who puts you closer to nature?"- that's why I chose it. 

The resort definitely exceeded my expectations. It offers privacy, peace and relaxation which is what we really wanted on this trip. It has high class facilities and above average service. They have billiards, darts, volleyball, badminton, board games, etc. An accommodation also comes with free use of Kayak and indoor facilities.

They also have a small jacuzzi open for all guests. There's nothing spectacular about it but we enjoyed it anyway.  

If you're a beach bum looking for a nice sand, sea and sky, it's not the place for you. You literally cannot swim in the sea water because it's so shallow. There's also a lot of seaweeds on the shore and in the water.  The sand is only so-so. The sky however is awesome, specially during sunset (I wasn't able to take pictures of it though ).

just to show you the depth of the sea

there goes the seaweed

                            

You can't bring any outside food in the resort. They have their own restaurant and everything is pricey! They have dampa wherein you'll buy raw food by the gram and they'll cook it for you. It is way too expensive for something grilled or just fried.  As far as I can remember, they sell tilapia for P58/ 100grams. Now that's expensive! We haven't tried their Ala Carte meals though. I'm pretty sure it's yummy! Well at least it should be, knowing how pricey it is. Since we only stayed there overnight, we managed to eat every meal at the resort. But I wouldn't do it if I'll be staying there for more than a night. I observed some guests go out to eat. There are decent carinderias outside the resort. You can save money and spend it on some other things or activities like island hopping.

inside the resto

Puerto Del Sol is best for romantic get away and intimate family gatherings. It is for those who are laid back and wanted to de-stress. Is it expensive? YES! Is it worth the price? YES! Will I go back to Puerto Del Sol? YES!

happy me!

Accommodation/Prices (got it from their site): 

Casitas (Family Suite)

US$315nett

A two bedroom detached units, which can accommodate up to four people with living and dining area. It has an all glass wall with sliding doors, giving you a view of the South China Sea.

Standard occupancy (4-7 pax)

Bahay Kubo (Premier Suite)

US$235nett

 A two-storey single detached unit inspired by and named after the homey Filipino native dwelling place. The ground level has spacious open-air living and dining area. Bedroom is on the second level with queen size bed and balcony facing the surf.

Standard Occupancy (3-5 pax)

Mansion Villa (Deluxe)

US$140nett

Spacious two-storey building done in the Mediterranean style.  Each unit has two twin beds with individual verandas.

Standard Occupancy (2-4 pax)

Family Room

 A dormitory style accommodation that has seven single bunk beds in each room. Perfect for family, students and company team buildings.

Standard Occupancy (10-14 pax)

Nipa Huts

US$70nett

Fourteen detached units which can accommodate up to maximum of four to five guests, an open air ambiance accented with curtains for guests to enjoy the luxury of relaxing serene surroundings of the resort.

How to get there

Website

The Parrot's Peak- Pico De Loro

I've decided to do my first post with my first love- Pico De Loro. It's considered the highest mountain in the Cavite province. I have first set my eyes on this enchanted mountain way back 2004, I was 15 back then. I could still remember my first reaction when I reached the summit- it was jaw dropping and all I said was "Wow!"

photo taken with a film camera (2004)

I considered it as an eye opener. I never really liked mountain climbing and travelling before, but climbing Pico De Loro was magical. In an instant I wanted to see every corner of this amazing planet. 

I couldn't find any courage to climb the peak on my first try, so I decided to go back the next year. 

2005 was a lot more memorable for me. It was more challenging cause we followed a different trail. We made our camp on a different site, I was addicted to the experience. I was naturally high that time. 

first camp site

a peak at the peak - view from the last camp site

We we're so excited and we went to the peak earlier than what's in the itinerary. It was intimidating at first, but my friends helped me conquer it! 

yey! look at how scared I was! hahaha!

I love Pico De Loro! Every climb is different from the former. I will never get tired of climbing. It gives me never ending happiness and adrenaline rush! 

Will post more details soon. :)

we were so puny :)

Happy Climbing!!!