Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

The long weekend just ended. Currently, I am onboard the Oceanjet vessel to Cebufrom Tagbilaran City Bohol and I was thinking of the next blog to talk about, however, I thought I should instead talk about what commenced during the recently concluded long weekend.

A long weekend means one or more days in addition to the normal Saturday and Sunday. This long weekend was due to the All Saints' and Soul's Day which fell on a Thursday and Friday respectively.

Let me share with you below how busy I was that weekend. Sharing here a weekend full of photography and photo manipulation.

Sunrise View at Cadapdapan Rice Terraces

Image credits: Jean Beltran Figues via Facebook

My original plan was to stay at home and have a rest, a full eight to ten hours of sleep could have been a good amount of sleep to regain my energy but then, when we arrived at the Ubay Port at two in the morning, we decided we want to take sunrise shots at the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces in Candijay.

Arriving in Candijay, James and I were fetched by my brothers and we went our way to the rice terraces. We have been there before but since we were with family, most of our photographs were with everyone, this time, what we're after was sunrise while in the rice fields.

Sunrise started at 5:30 am but we arrived prior and were already positioned in a way that we were facing East. There's a mini island in the midst of the terraces, I asked my brothers to stay there while I take photos of them.

Image credits: Jean Beltran Figues via Facebook

It took us an hour of the photo shoot. I took lots of them to ensure that I have a good and sharp copy then stitched the photos into one through Adobe Lightroom to make it like a panorama photo. It was awesome watching the sunrise from there. It's amazing seeing the rays stroke through the foggy morning and we only heard nothing but our own aws and ohs as a sign of appreciation.

Cabagnow Cave Pool

After Candijay, I learned that my cousins from Cebu were in the house visiting and they wanted to go out to check some spots within the town. We brought them to Anda.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

First, we dropped by Cabagnow Cave Pool for lunch. We grilled fish and pork while the kids swim. The fun thing in this spot is, of course, the cave pool. This is all made by nature. An opening enough for jumping opens itself to the earth. It is a combination of salt water and the common tasteless water so the combo was great for swimming the 13 feet water pool.

There's a huge space inside underneath the land where we were having lunch. It's quite amazing how this formed into one. It was not a long time ago when I first came here, now there are improvements such as the stairs going up is already better and sturdier. There are floats in the pool too and the entire place is guarded and covered with some interlink walls.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

Jumping off to the water is still the best activity here although they also have set up tables and chairs for those who want to stay longer and eat. The management can also sell freshly picked Buko fruits for only Php 30!

Quinale Public Beach Resort

There's a very popular public beach in Anda, Bohol and there are hundreds if not thousands of people visiting every single day! After getting over the Cabagnow Cave Pool, we went straight to the town's public beach which was just around five minutes drive.

Image credits: Jean Beltran Figues via Facebook

This public beach is located just right in front of the school and church. There are tables and chairs for rent if you needed one while others prefer to just lay down in the sand underneath the bamboo made Teepee.

We had kids so they all enjoyed running around, playing with the waters and swimming. Unfortunately, it was low tide upon arrival but it didn't stop the kids to still enjoy the place.

Image credits: Jean Beltran Figues via Facebook

I, on the other hand, had also taken lots of photographs of my cousins and other relatives most especially teenagers.

Cake Smash Photoshoot

On the 2nd of November, our day was booked for a baby photo shoot! It's baby Amara who's turning one on December's time and her parents would really want to keep memories of her before she turns one.

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

With a Cake Smash theme at a public beach along our town, we started shooting at four when the sun was not too harsh anymore. The cake was a simple chiffon but with icing. I enjoyed the shoot, I didn't expect that editing it over on Adobe Lightroom was very enjoyable!

Baby Amara cried when she was dressed in this tutu but later on smiled and laughed while smashing the cakes! It was such as a cute moment of course for the parents too!

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

We had family portraits and I made a collage too of their many many photographs which I don't want to keep with me anymore, as much as possible, I wanted their photos to be given to the family because it will serve as their remembrance. Additionally, James and I will also take her dedication shots which will happen by December, on her first birthday too!

Portraits with Gecell

By Saturday, the next appointment was another photo shoot for my sister in law. We had been planning this for two weeks now and finally, we had it realized.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The theme was a pictorial with Wiggy, their car. The car was red so I asked her to wear something light like white so she did and we drove to the neighboring town where there were huge Acacia trees with branches and leaves covering the road for good lighting.

It was quite challenging for a pictorial next to the road because there are cars and buses going here and there but my brother, Gecell's husband was very supportive of it that he made sure that we were safe while the pictorial was ongoing.

That was just a fun shoot which we always do whenever we are back in Bohol. For sure in the next few weeks and months, we will be doing another fun shoot but of different concept.

Seth's Dedication

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

And yet another photo shoot on Sunday for my nephew's dedication. It was a tight one because it was held inside our local church which has a very limited space so taking photographs was very challenging because of not enough lighting.

But what I did was enhance the lighting in the post-processing part. Also, I had created a tarpaulin design for the Dedication event. It was a photo with Seth on the beach and I edited it in Adobe Photoshop. The tarpaulin design was made in just a few hours, perhaps two hours. The good thing is that there's already a tarpaulin printing company nearby so printing it on Saturday was easy and fast.

Image credits: Jean Beltran Figues uploaded via bitLanders

The entire weekend was really full pack, I guess I had spent numerous hours in front of the computer editing photos and doing some Adobe Photoshop works rather than blogging or interacting with other social media.

Still, it was worth it. I believe it helped me enhance my skills as a photographer as well as the editing process. I have to improve more to make it more efficient most especially in the editing part on Lightroom.

Thanks a lot for reading!

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About the author:
Jean Beltran-Figues is a photography enthusiast. 
A traveler who wants to promote her beloved country, the Philippines.

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

Photography session opportunities are always just some corners away. Everyone at some point wants to have their portraits taken, most especially for those who are having special events like birthdays, weddings, holiday events, and the list goes on. Even on those normal days, photography can be done but it is totally different if your photograph is taken professionally with a good camera and nice post-processed.

It is given that everyone would like their faces photographed as a remembrance of those certain good times in life. While it is easy to take portraits of adults, those who are getting married and those who are modeling for personal reason, it is quite a totally different case when it comes to baby photography. Let me tell you why.

Baby Photography

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

Babies who are under 12 months, although not fully aware of their environment can be at times picky with the things around them. They have unpredictable mood swings and full of emotions. It may change in just a few seconds and so it requires tender care.

Baby Photography is definitely cute and every parent would want their children's baby photograph taken as a remembrance of their happiness when they were still that small.

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

Note that I am not referring to New Born Photography, here is for those babies who are almost turning one. Those of who can already recognize faces and can be entertained with any toy or can be disappointed with just the texture of their dress.

What Are the Challenges of Baby Photography?

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

There's definitely nothing wrong with documenting your child's very first, his or her first step, first hard food, first straight walk, first word and first birthday. It would be wonderful if all parents, most especially first-time parents to really keep a book of all photographs of their child but that isn't the case at all. Only a few can do it on their own, the rest will need help from a photographer.

So last weekend, my husband and I went on for aBaby Photography with Amara as our model. She's turning one by December 8 and her parents want to keep a digital and tangible copy of her before turning one-year-old photos.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

Our theme was the very cute and sweet cake smash. The rule was just to let Amara smash, eat, push, kick and whatever she wants to do with the cake, it will all be hers and I will only be documenting her the entire time but before doing so, we have to take family portraits and also some solo shots of her at the beach shore.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

Now comes my expectation versus reality moments. I pictured it out that Amara's going to be all smiles and laughter but it didn't end up that way so I have to adjust. It was challenging but after the photo shoot, I guess I was okay.

Here is my own personal take on the challenges of Baby Photography:

Babies Can't Be Instructed

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

I had taken portraits before, engagement sessions with couples and family photographs with grown-up kids, there was no issue with giving them instructions on what to do, where to put their hands and how to position themselves while I am shooting.

However, when it comes to babies, this is not applicable. I can't tell Amara to turn this way or point her hands that way. All I can do was tell her parents to call her and make her laugh. But then again, babies have their own way of doing things. When they feel unsecured and alone, they cry and that's what happened during our attempt to take her portraits.

Obviously, she was not happy being alone in that shore while all of us were just in front with those big cameras pointing at her. She might have become scared of the camera too, what was in her thoughts, we all don't have an idea!

Babies' Moods Can Be Unpredictable

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

Even parents can't predict their babies' emotions and moods so as much as possible, we must give in to all of their wants and likes during this shoot to make it a success.

During the photo shoot, Amara was not so happy with her portraits taken. In fact, we only had one or two shots with her normal cute face, the rest, she was already crying with tears around her cheeks and eyes were sore and we don't want that to be in the photographs.

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

To make use of our time, I asked her mother, Jessa, to carry her and make her feel secure. She was already holding Amara, she stopped crying for a while but then started crying again in just a minute.

To keep her entertained, we gave all stuff that we have available to make her laugh, we asked her grandmother, the other kids to call her name and make her smile but it was a failure. We just have to wait for her to stop and I guess that was one of the really great challenges during these sessions.

Eventually, her father calmed her when they were just walking around the beach and so the photo session continued.

Surrounding Can Make or Break It

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

When photographingbabies, it is important to bring her favorite things, toys most especially but during our shoot, I guess we missed to bring them into the scene.

But because it was a cake smash, bringing out the cake in front of her changed everything. Her mood changed, her facial expressions uplifted and all she could do was just play with the colorful cake!

That was the great part of the shoot, when she was already having fun with the messing up the cake and killing it with her bare hands, the photographs turned out pretty good.

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

Since she was already having a good time, we thought it was a great opportunity for their family portraits taken too. They walked in the waters too and some sunset drama was also documented.

Overall, I can say that the Baby Photography Session with Amara was 75% a success. There were several other items in hand that was not used like the colorful beach balls, her other costumes, and her headbands because she dislikes them.

Image credits: StillsandMotion via Facebook

But then after working on her photos while post-processing the Raw images, I figured it was enough and that I had pretty decent shots of the family.

Truly, there were several lessons learned points that I have taken with that shoot. I am surely able to bring them home and be able to make use of them in the future as well.

Thanks a lot for reading!

----------------------------

About the author:
Jean Beltran-Figues is a photography enthusiast. 
A traveler who wants to promote her beloved country, the Philippines.

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

Cebu maybe popular because of its relatively rapid growth in terms of its economy as well as its tourism. But what comes into your mind when the word Cebu is talked about?

To some, it may be the festivity which occurs every January, I am referring to Sinulog or perhaps the natural resources that of which draws tourists from local and abroad into the island, Kawasan Falls in Badian or Oslob's Whalesharks and a lot more or to others, it might be the food.

Disclaimer: To all my Muslim, Vegan, Vegetarian, animal rights advocate friends and followers here in bitLanders, PLEASE Do NOT PROCEED with reading this blog, CLOSE this window or read another blog instead, believe me, you won't like it.

Speaking of food, one that Cebu is very famous about in terms of food is its Lechon. If it is your first time to hear about it then you might not have researched that much yet about the island. Today's blog article is about Cebubeing considered as the Lechon City of the country. Why is it so and how does the Cebu Lechon differs from the rest of the country?

History of Lechon

Image credits: pbase

Lechon is actually a Spanish word which means roasted pig. It is a whole roasted pig, grilled by charcoal fire slowly after seasoned and stuffed with fillings.

As the Spaniards colonized the country for more than 300 years, it is quite evident that most of the food, language and even culture of these Spaniards had been rooted into the lives of the Filipinos, even until this day. In fact, at least 80% of our language and dialect are based on Spanish words.

I had in mind that it is possible though that this recipe might be cooked by the ancient Filipinos but its the Spanish term Lechon which had been passed on. This is just my two cents, perhaps it is the other way around.

Image credits: dude4food

Going back, Lechon has now been considered as a national dish and had been widely recognized and acknowledged in the international cuisine.

But way back in the old times, Lechon is only prepared during special occasions like birthday, baptism, weddings and festivals. It is actually one of the things that visitors look forward to seeing at the center of the dining table when joining such celebrations.

Video credits: Kyle Jennermann via YouTube

Also, this was considered a royal food before. However, through time, the Filipinos were able to afford it. At one time, from being prepared and cooked on celebrations, it became available upon order until such time that it had become available anytime in restaurants. In fact, there are restaurants in the country which offers them all day long!

So, just imagine how accessible Lechon became to the Filipinos.

Cebu's Lechon

Image credits: insights.looloo

The famosity of Lechon had made it possible for it to be taken to different parts of the country and the world too!

One good example was when one of the well known local artist, Sharon Cuneta who's been widely referred as the Mega Star of the Philippines when was pregnant had asked her husband to buy her Lechon from Cebu one midnight. It was so hard to get but Senator Kiko Pangilinan was able to get the hand of one, his connections made it possible for the Lechon to be flown from Cebu to Manila.

Often times, when I travel on a plane, I would see traveling individuals who are carrying a box of which has Ayer's or CnT's Lechon printed on it. I am pretty sure someone had asked them to bring it back home.

Video credits: Mitch Young via YouTube

So, why is it that Cebu has been considered to have the best Lechon?

For me, as a Boholano who is now based in Cebu, I believe that the Lechon in Cebu is just the same as the rest of the country. The difference might boil down to the marketing and I guess I don't have to explain more about this!

The Best Lechon Restaurants in Cebu?

Image credits: foodinthebag

When I was still a pork-eating individual (I am not anymore eating any pork or beef now), my favorite part was the skin and the ribs where all the flavors are because of the stuffings and herbs inside. However, as I realized the negative effects of eating too much pork most especially Lechon so I had to give it up.

However, still, most Filipinos love their Lechon, my family still eats it even if I discourage them a lot. So, with that, I have laid out here the different restaurants in Cebu which offer "the best Lechon in the city".

• House of Lechon

Image credits: eatsasmallworld

Formerly called Rico's Lechon. This is quite famous in the city. From their complimentary Monggo side dish to its main offering which is the Lechon Carcar. Carcar is a city in the province of Cebu which is pretty famous for its Chicharon or fried pork skin.

But an issue with its business permits in Cebu City had caused it to shut down its operation. Currently, they have branches outside Cebu City instead.

• Ayer's Lechon and CnT Lechon

Image credits: ayerlechon

These two are very much alike. Perhaps they were the first two to have become famous within Cebu City in terms of offering Lechon in malls.

However, as new establishments started offering more reinforced meals and innovative marketing strategies, they had somehow become less known.

Still, they got one of the best tasting Lechon in town based on reviews.

• Zubuchon

Image credits: thefoodinistaph

This establishment is gaining popularity now in Sugbu. Their branches started popping out of nowhere and in just a few years!

They take pride in their organic ingredients as well as the traditional cooking which they believe brings out the best flavor of the Lechon.

• Yobab Lechon de Cebu

Image credits: cebudailynews.inquirer

This is a newly established Filipino restaurant which is owned by a local artist Paul Jake Castillo who had decided to bring the taste of Cebu Lechon directly to Manila and Luzon.

He seemed to be successful with that and of course, he also has branches in Cebu. They have an innovative set of the menu to one of which is the Ginataang Lechon which is similar to Bicol Express but has been pumped up with their Lechon cutlets.

Final Note

Image credits: lloydandbehold

If you are not very conscious about your health and that you eat only once in a blue moon, then I would suggest that you check out these restaurants. However, as much as possible, please refuse to eat this type of food.

Anyway, it is all up to you and your health is right there in your hands. Featuring Lechon is a little bit of a hard time for me as I am not anymore eating this, nor am I craving to eat it, I simply had disciplined my mind to corporate it with diseases.

At the end of the day, it's your health. I hope this blog gave you an overview of the topic and some knowledge on this subject.

Enjoy the rest of your day! Please do not forget to participate in the Querlo chat below about Filipino food:

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This blog entry was written and published by Jean Beltran-Figues for bitlanders.com. 

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Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

Looking for the next getaway to Bohol, Philippines? Don't miss out on the simple rural town of Candijay! This is one emerging tourist attraction that offers no other than pure natural destinations!

Categorized as a fourth class municipality of the province, the population of this town was recorded at some 29 thousand from the 2015 census. It is also a home to a public university for education and fisheries of which most of the young adults within this area of the island are enrolled.

Image credits: boholtourismph

Candijay, although a sleepy town, simple, raw and is still developing had started getting recognized around two to three years ago when the Can-Umantad Falls was being shared over social media. Before, when searching for the town's name, it will return only Wikipedia and a few universities and local government unit news but today, the search engine provides a variety of blog contents talking about what, where and how to get here.

But the town has more to offer rather than the waterfalls. Today, let me share with you more about the town, here are the natural spots not to miss when visiting Candijay, Bohol, Philippines.

Canawa Cold Spring

Image credits: theintrovertsjourney

Perhaps the oldest destination amongst the rest within the town. This is only well known to locals before. A long time ago, the ones swimming here are just the children who live in the vicinity but now, more and more tourists are also getting interested in touring it.

Canawa is derived from the local term "cawa" which literally means pan for the reason that the spring had bloomed into a circular shaped container. None had actually measured its depth and so some locals believe that there are elements unlike the humans protecting or guarding it.

Image credits: radysetgo

Such belief is very common on the island and is true as well in the different parts of the country. But it is respected and being well protected by the surrounding ancestors which have been also passed on to their next generation.

Today, the deepness of the said spring is still unknown, no one had ever dared to do so after a few failed attempts in the past. Even the main source of the spring still remains a mystery until this day.

Cadapdapan Rice Terraces

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

Rice terraces aren't just a thing of the northern Philippines. In the Visayas, this is also very evident from what can be seen when traveling across the island. There are areas along the road which has been formed into elevated ricefields but the most interesting of them all is that of Candijay.

It is referred to as Cadapdapan from the barangay's name itself. This was taken from its root word "dap-dap" which means coral plants. The history wasn't really established in words but for me, I believe the mountains and hills here are full of plants and shrubs.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via YouTube

The ancestors, just like in Batad, Ifugao who made the famous Batad Rice Terraces, had also exerted efforts in creating these slopes by hand I suppose to create this wondrous beauty.

From the bird's eye view, the amphitheater looks stunning especially when it is planting season. The ambiance and beauty are equally glorious during the harvesting season too!

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

According to the locals, the green color during the months of June to August symbolizes hope and its golden yellow us a reminder of the treasures like this farmland that they had left for the new generation.

Lungsodaan Fascinating Fireflies

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

If there's an underrated spot in Candijay, that would be the firefly watching. This will surely "wow" your eyes and brighten up your senses!

The activity doesn't start until twilight when the blinking lights of these tiny creatures started to become visible. The unique river boating experience offered across the Lungsodaan River after or before a sumptuous dinner at their floating restaurant will let you appreciate the simplest things in life like the fireflies.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

For an hour, guests will be treated to an informative journey of the mangrove forest which provides the notion of a balanced ecosystem. Fireflies again remind locals here that someone or some other elements live around that is also the reason why they keep it as solemn and peaceful so as not to disturb these creatures.

Kawasihan Sandbar

Image credits: notey

Just like the neighboring major island of Bohol like Cebu and Negros, the province itself has its own sandbars. One of the many is Candijay's pride, the Kawasihan Sandbar. It flaunts a white sand shore which is a perfect spot for sunbathing, snorkeling as well through the diverse florals and faunas at the coastal spot of CogtongBay.

What made it quite popular among the neighboring towns is the fact that the seafood offered here are delectable and they can be ordered as well as prepared at the Municipal Tourism Port at a very low price.

Boat rental going to the sandbar costs only Php 600 which is very much affordable compared to the other sandbars.

Can-Umantad Waterfalls

Image credits: thebisdakexplorer

Of course, we won't end this blog without including Can-Umantad Waterfalls on this list. From the term "Can-uman" which means 60, the waterfalls was named as such because of its height which is 60 local fathoms or 261 ft.

Dubbed as the tallest waterfall in Bohol, the route going to the waterfalls can be a little challenging but it is manageable. From the main highway, tourists need to travel 14 to 15 kilometers to reach the destination. Visitors have the option to take the route from the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces or take the main road instead.

Image credits: interasiatravelandtours

The rushing sound of water falling at that high can already be heard from afar. In fact, when in Cadapdapan, one can already hear the water flow coming from the waterfalls. As soon as one reaches the spot, the high and splendid view of the white but sometimes murky water will meet you. When it is windy, the spills will reach a distance, so it is advisable to always bring waterproof containers to keep your stuff dry.

The best activity to do here is to enjoy the water, either swim at its base, feel cold by its captivating waters. The best thing? It's not touristy, so there are days when there are no other visitors around so you can definitely have your me time, perhaps a little meditation, rock balancing is also a good idea and just appreciate natural beauty and God's gift to humanity!

How to Get to Candijay, Bohol?

Driving from Tagbilaran City where the island's only airport is located, it would take around two hours to reach the main town while it would only take 40 minutes if one is coming from Ubay port for those who are coming from Cebu or Leyte.

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This blog entry was written and published by Jean Beltran-Figues for bitlanders.com. 

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"The perfect definition of detoxification from the internet and the city pollution."

- Jean Figues

Image credits: Stills and Motion (James and Jean Figues) via Facebook

Hello, bitLanders! I couldn't contain how glad I am to get no access from the internet for a whole 24 hours, it refreshed, say it recharged my mind, reset my priorities and definitely reconnect me with nature. But there's much more reason and pleasure for this getaway which I will share on a separate blog. For now, allow me to give you a taste of serenity at the mountains of Bonbon, Cebu.

En Route to Bonbon and Lava Mountain River Farm

A white van stopped right in front of us, it opened up with many unfamiliar smiling individuals who confirmed that we were in the correct vehicle and must hop in. The front seats were available, and I thought it is a perfect spot to take a hyperlapse video of our trip.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

It was 10:40 in the morning when our road trip towards the mountains started. It felt exciting to be in a group of individuals who are committed to Christ, it has been a while since I had joined one. So that familiar feeling of excitement and looking forward was in me most especially that it was an event with my husband James.

Concrete roads shifted into a semi one, most of the parts of the road had been destroyed, I assumed the earthquakes in the past caused this or perhaps due to heavy vehicles which had passed by this road.

Image credits: Stills and Motion (James and Jean Figues) via Facebook

It didn't take long before we reached the intersection which has the note that the farm's just 3 kilometers away. But it really felt like the three kilometers was a bit longer as we arrived at a very secluded area but then we spotted a barangay hall which I guess had the worst road going there. Anyway, after hundreds of inhales and exhales I have heard from Kuya Rolly, our driver, we finally saw the light as a maroon colored metal gate showed at the distance, it bears Lava Mountain River Farm.

Lava Mountain River Farm

Image credits: Stills and Motion (James and Jean Figues) via Facebook

I switched my mobile phone to airplane mode immediately as I couldn't spot any signal bar, it would be exciting not to receive any mobile notification this entire stay and I believe this is the perfect definition of detoxification from the internet and the city pollution as although it is just 45 minutes away from the city, it doesn't have any signs of being near. No signal, no internet connection, no social media, no digital beeping but all about nature.

Reconnecting or getting close to nature is easy peasy here, I will talk about that in a bit. Let me provide more details of the location first.

The Lava Mountain River Farm is a mango farm with a rest house, a flowing private infinity pool, Balinese style loft huts and cottages as well as a stone house. It has one of the most unique house designs James and I had stayed.

Image credits: Stills and Motion (James and Jean Figues) via Facebook

From its name, the farm itself sits beside a river named Mananga and there's a direct access towards this from the farm where guests can go trekking towards the waterfalls which is the source of the river.

Aside from that, there's a huge open land area that guests can roam around and try to discover its natural resources, there's also a fishing pond, a campfire space too which we used that night.

Huts, Rooms Plus Unique Toilet and Bath

Image credits: Stills and Motion (James and Jean Figues) via Facebook

For me, rooms and its amenities tell a lot about a resort. For me, this has a unique style, one of which reminded me of that cottage on a hill we rented for two days in Negros. Its dark painted interiors, as well as exteriors, gave me a historic feel but it also somehow has an added modern touch.

There were basically four sleeping quarters slash rooms. Three of them were hut designed and there's one which they refer to as the stone house which is literally made of those rocks from limestone rocks.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

An open lounge which also served as a dining place is right next to the pool and provides a Balinese touch to the resort. Concrete stairs with limestones too have to be used to get to the rest of the huts. One cool hut was that next to the lounge. Its an open space and the staffs arrange bed foams with pillows and blankets. This was where the boys stayed during the night.

As for the ladies, the upper hut was given. This looks beautiful from the lounge area, the flowers at the side of the rocky stairs added beauty to it plus the lush green trees at the back adds contrast. I found two huge pans below the hut, I wonder if they have this intended for cooking or just for props purposes?

Image credits: Jean Beltran via Cloudinary

Getting to the toilet was an experience I didn't expect that I have to mention that here too. First toilet and bath that I had discovered were that of our room. After being assigned where to sleep, I went to the hut right away, tucked my bag on a bed with white linens and proceeded to the bathroom.

Limestone rocks used as walls and soap dishes, a nicely positioned long mirror which allows you to see your entire body, spacious and the most exciting is it has plants inside! A crawling plant with its leaves invading the interior which even has reached the showers! Plus, its upper walls were open, the skies the trees are visible from the shower area which made me felt like I was taking a bath in the middle of the forest! I had to take a bath three times during the entire stay because I definitely love its concept! The same applies to the other bathrooms except that ours was the best of them all.

Natural Pool and River

Image credits: Stills and Motion (James and Jean Figues) via Facebook

Apart from the beauty of nature, checked in guests can also enjoy the free-flowing water of its pool, infinity with again, limestone rocks attached to its sides. The infinity style makes it even more interesting.

"True serenity, offers pure relaxation and nature appreciation!"

- Jean Figues

Kids can enjoy the shallow side of it while adults can swim through the deeper parts, jumping, diving was allowed at your own risk. It is quite cool to have a pool right in the middle of a forest or a mountain!

Another getting soaked option is to get to the river next to the farm. The river comes from a waterfall which has to trek for an hour. Although I didn't try to go to where the waterfalls were, I had an early morning internalization at the riverside, alone with only the relaxing music of the rushing waters and the breeze of cold air as it made the tree branches and leaves dance to its rhythm.

The Morning View

Image credits: Stills and Motion (James and Jean Figues) via Facebook

"Soul searchers will find solitude and enough time to find their life's meaning."

- Jean Figues

The best view of every mountain resort I have ever been happening during the breaking dawn, when the civil twilight occurs, when the fogs are sitting beneath the trees and the sun's rays start to appear, striking through the fogs eventually breaking them, evaporating out of nowhere. I love to witness this moment and I am glad I got up right on time!

Image credits: Stills and Motion (James and Jean Figues) via Facebook

I have to add that when we had our bonfire that evening, we found fireflies flying around the mango trees. It reminded us that this spot right here has a perfect ecosystem where such creatures still live and breath. Still, fireflies made me feel that this place is also magical.

I slept in the loft of our open-air hut, listening to the crickets, peeking through the open skies, with million stars.

Overall Review

Image credits: Stills and Motion (James and Jean Figues) via Facebook

Lava Mountain River Farm is highly recommendable, though some areas may require maintenance, its rusty feel, the broken areas, woods and dried leaves left in the lawns made it more natural and raw.

It is a perfect place for soul searchers, for a family who wants to reconnect and relax, workmates who are in for trekking and most especially to those individuals and groups who are seeking for spiritual healing.

Nature gives the best medicine! Lava Mountain River Farm provides this drop!

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This blog entry was written and published by Jean Beltran-Figues for bitlanders.com. 

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Today's blog which I am posting as more of a diary entry is all about James and I's two days and one-night spiritual retreat experience at Lava resort last weekend. Read further So I can share this journey which was the first for the two of us to join together.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

A little history, a pastor on training had a burden in his heart to share the gospel with his colleagues in Arcanys, the same company where James works as well.

Upon introduction of the said colleague, his quote in life mentioned was from a Bible verse which made James think this person is a Christian. Not too long after, he was able to start a Bible study between him, the boss driver and another colleague. This didn't take long before they increased in number. More and more of their colleagues were invited and James also joined by himself.

After months of Bible study, the retreat was formed and James decided to also become a part of the committed ones who would be undergoing the water baptism.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

BPO Life

BPO Life stands for Biblical Purpose Of Life, you might ask why it was called as such, well this is because the focus is those who are working in the BPO industry.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The BPO Life was formed as the leaders of the Living Word Christian Church located in IT Park Cebu. Being based in the center of Cebu's IT hub, where BPO companies are rising every month and the numerous young ones who are working in the call center companies, as well as IT Development, are significantly increasing, the church had seen these young generation getting out of their offices, getting drunk at the 24/7 bars within the city, some of them are left at the corners of the street, sleeping and are unable to get up because of too much drinking.

Aside from that, there are so many stories circulating about female call center agents who are getting pregnant out of one night stands, others who have been heartbroken, keeping their problems within themselves and eventually committing suicide. They have seen enough and it is a challenge to reach out to these individuals.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The current generation is now corrupted by the evil things in this world. The young ones are already doing things like they don't care about their future as well as their eternity thus wasting their lives, their bodies, and their future just for their current pleasure.

It was through prayers that the BPO Life has started, it was God's work of hand that enabled the workers to be reached out by the church leaders, Daryl was one of them. He now has three Bible study groups from different companies, two of them from IT Park and another one in JYIT.

BPO Life Retreat

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

On the 18th of August, the first retreat was initiated and the best place to do this was at Lava Mountain River Farm. It is an isolated spot of Cebu but it doesn't require a long travel time to reach it thus, was the perfect spot.

At 10:30 AM, a van brought us to Brgy. Bonbon, Cebu City and reached the farm after 45 minutes of a challenging rough and rocky road. The event started with lunch and a little introduction. Fourteen individuals committed two days of their lives to have an intimate time with the Lord.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

It was 2:00 PM when the official worship started. Praise and worship is definitely my favorite part, it blesses me always and so thus this initial worship with just acoustic guitars and a beatbox but with a great worship leader, everything fell into place, after that a message was given by Tito Mark Cusi about the text in 2 Corinthians 5:17.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

After almost an hour of an inspirational and spiritual talk about his life and how he was changed to become a child of God, we eventually went straight to the Baptismal Testimony where four individuals offered their life testimonies and their decision to declare their faith of following Jesus.

Testimonials are always tear-jerking for me, I love listening to testimonies because, at some point in time, I can relate to them. The testimony portion took less than an hour and so the water baptism took place in the cold waters of the farm.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

I was personally happy and glorious to witness as James was baptized. This is not an assurance of salvation but this is a declaration of faith, that they have decided to become followers of Jesus.

Free time and dinner came afterward. There was a sumptuous meal and everyone was filled with nourishment! The next part of the event was another worship and word preaching at the bonfire area.

The fire in front of us was strong and very relaxing. The crackling of the wood fire was entertaining, at least for me and it somehow sounded like sweet rhythm as we sang our songs of worship. The message delivered by Pastor AJ Caparros was very strong, it talked about the current state of the heart of most people where most are seeking for success in life but at the end of the day, they are still unsatisfied and eventually would think that there's nothing more about this life. The likes of Anthony Bourdain and Kate Spade who had taken their lives by their hand, these are successful people but yet, they didn't seem to find meaning in their lives.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

It is true that in our life here on Earth, admit it or not, a person who doesn't have God in his or her heart would feel empty, would feel that there's nothing more to life than what he or she is currently having thus they'd feel it is best to die than to continue living. However, that void in one's person's heart can be fulfilled by no other than returning back to his Maker. That void can only be filled by His presence and that can be found in Jesus who died on the cross for the penalty of our sins and came back to life that we as well are reconciled with the Father. He conquered death for us and He continues to live.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The night ended with more praising, it was intimate because there were only less than twenty of us in the farm and the resonating sound of our voices echoed int he wilderness with the stars in the sky, we were proclaiming God's faithfulness in this part of the world.

On the next day, we had early devotion, had breakfast and Daryl expanded his personal ways of doing devotional. I believe that committing to this is essential in the life of a Christian because the world is so corrupted that most people don't know what is right from what is wrong, we have obviously forgotten our common senses. The Word of God is a very essential part of our lives and it is our lamp and light in living this world. The event was ended with a prayer and a personal commitment to read the Word and have a daily devotion.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

After this part, the free time was given for everyone to enjoy the farm. Some went to the river, some had enjoyed the pool, some went taking photographs of the location and some enjoyed the quietness of the environment, the chirping birds and the sound of the rushing river next to the farm.

It was almost noon time when we were out of the resort, everyone was blessed, I was definitely blessed and had recommitted my time for morning devotional. I prayed to God to sustain me and to help me in every decision I do in life.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

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This blog entry was written and published by Jean Beltran-Figues for bitlanders.com. 

Most of us here are looking for ways to earn, may it be online or offline. The majority if not all of us have our own full time or part time jobs like those type of jobs where we go to an office, or such but I am assuming that after that day work, we look into other ways or other baskets to fill.

Thus, today's blog is all about an app which allows us to earn from our expenses. This may sound ridiculous as to how we get something out of our purchases but it is real. Read more as to learn about how to do this and you too can take advantage of the Snapcart application.

Introducing Snapcart!

Image credits: tipsgeeks

Snapcartis a mobile application which gives cash back for scanning receipts from the phone. This as well is the first ever receipt snapping application in Indonesia, Brazil, Singapore and of course the Philippines. So if you are in any of these specific countries, then you know that you are in for another way of earning!

One might think how are they able to return a percentage back to the grocer? Well, the app is actually helping multibillion-dollar companies by sending them with data from all those that have been snapped and sent to their database. Tracking the consumer database and gathering plus analyzing this information is helping out the companies and clients of the said Snapcart app.

Image credits: dramafever

Imagine being able to understand the shopping habits of a certain range of consumers, the teenagers, the adults and even the young professionals. There's a huge potential for improving marketing strategies by simply using data mining results.

In fact, more and more multinational consumer goods brands are already subscribing to the service provided by Snapcart because these brands can easily understand the shopping practices of the shoppers plus this is in a real-time manner in terms of survey and analysis.

Image credits: revelstokemountaineer

As for the items that can be snapped, they are your daily grocery, medicine, and cosmetics receipts. How to start using the app? Read on!

How to Start Receiving Cashback with Snapcart?

Image credits: juanmanilaexpress

1. Download the application from your favorite app store.

2. Shop at your favorite grocery stores, beauty shops and Pharmacies, don't throw your receipts away!

3. Take a photo or snap a shot of your receipts through the Snapcart application.

4. Wait for within 24-48 hours for the feedback if the receipt was accepted or rejected.

5. Cash out your balance when it reaches a minimum amount.

6. Earn more by joining other activities within the application.

How to Earn More?

The increasing number of the Snapcart app users has a huge advantage to all client brands and is also a win-win situation for all the users as they are able to receive their cash back.

With this, I would like to deal with the ways on how to earn more.

1. Snap Consistently for Bigger Multipliers

Image credits: fastandclean

Inside the app, you'll see a multiplier and a status icon. Both of these provide an information on the current status of the account.

The multiplier allows the user to earn more by multiplying the amount of cashback depending on the current level.

My account shows Silver which means I can earn 1.2 times per cashback. Here's the cashback table:

• Regular gets 1.0x
• Bronze gets 1.1x
• Silver gets 1.2x
• Gold gets 1.5x
• Platinum gets 2.0x

The status signifies the current level for every week that passes by, it simply shows when are you getting an upgraded or downgraded depending on your activity.

If there are no snaps in a week, downgrade happens while it upgrades as one continues to be consistent with the snapping.

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Here's the meaning of the Status icons:

• You're here shows in which week you are in

• Constant means that you stayed in the same position at that particular week

• Pending means that your status for that particular week is still being reviewed. It could be due to your receipt was not yet validated. This icon will be changed once your receipt got accepted or rejected.

• Upgrade means that you were upgraded at that particular week. You are upgraded because you reached the minimum valid receipts needed to go to the next step.

• The downgrade means that you were downgraded because no valid receipt was found during that particular week.

2. Earn More By Learning About the Receipt Value Brackets

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Learn about the receipt value brackets to have an idea on how much are you getting back from that specific receipt value. There are certain purchases that we can increase in order to get a bigger cashback.

It is also important that the receipt is not more than three days old, those which are four days and above won't be accepted anymore.

Beware as well with splitting receipts just so you can get bigger cash backs. They ban those accounts which do this. Here's the cashback ranges per receipt value:

3. Always Snap Clear Receipts

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Be aware that when snapping, the Snapcart team will only accept those which are clear. If you snap those which are not clear enough, the receipt might go to waste.

If the receipt is long, just press the plus button to snap more. Ensure the environment is bright enough to capture a clear shot. No crumbles, readable and should be within the red box provided.

4. Participate in Bonus Games, Surveys, and Etc.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

There are several other ways to earn more, there's a game called Snaptastic where one can use the account coins to win various prizes such as cash back, coins or special surprises! Diamonds are also part of the prizes, note that it will cost you 500 coins to play.

Another way is to answer surveys which will reward you with coins. The number of coins depending on the specific survey that was answered. Some surveys talk about the events in the country, some about cars and comics.

Watching videos can also earn you points. It is not just a simple watch video and earns but you'll have to answer specific questions to get rewarded.

Image credits: investlibrary

Lastly, taking photos will soon become available too so watch out for that.

How to Cash Out on Snapcart?

Finally, after earning a certain amount, you are good to cash out and withdraw your accumulated earning. To do so, you can just click on the cash out option underneath the cashback balance, the minimum amount is Php 220. Click the cashout button to proceed.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

Before processing, the account has to be verified first both through email and phone. Then you can either cash out through bank account and phone credits.

Just add the bank account details such as the account number and name, processing will also cost Php 20 and will be deposited within seven banking days. 

Image credits: snapcart.global

I had cashed out 550 amount so far and more to come! So what are you waiting for? Let's all start snapping and earning those cashback!  

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This blog entry was written and published by Jean Beltran-Figues for bitlanders.com. 

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In the Philippines and even abroad, Mindanao has a negative vibe, some would already think that it's very dangerous and risky to get there. It is, therefore, one of the least places to visit when in the Philippines but I beg to disagree as my family and I went for a weekend getaway from General Santos to Koronadal City then to Lake Sebu as well as back to Polomolok City.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Today's blog is all about this recent weekend trip and how Mindanao has welcomed us with blessings and awesome landscapes. This blog is more of like a general overview of the travel and will be posting separate comprehensive blogs for each location.

Cebu to General Santos

My city house in Cebu was filled with several heads as my family from Bohol came to the city. Our trip base was in Mactan Cebu so they have to get themselves to Cebu a day before the flight.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

On Friday early morning, my parents were the first to wake up, then my alarm clock was stopped way before it started because I got woken up by my parents' preparation noise.

Every one of us got ready before 4:30 AM. I had arranged for some neighbor to send us to the airport before 5 AM. Unfortunately, it was already past five in the morning yet he has not messaged me at all so we booked two taxis instead. It was quarter to six when we arrived at the Mactan airport, enough for us to check in and prepare for the boarding area. 

I missed the feeling of flying, seeing the clouds at eye level, seeing cabin crews and pilots too! The pilot manning the flight had even shown me a heart hand sign while we were on the way into the aircraft.

The flight was only less than an hour long, I had to make the most out of it by taking photos, going to the comfort room, I enjoy those moments.

General Santos Fish Port Complex

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

At eight, our aircraft arrived in the city dabbed as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines. Its airport is small and simple but the thought of seeing huge tunas waken us up.

It takes only a few minutes to reach the port. They are strict in terms of dress code so every visitor has to get themselves a pair of boots. There's a specific room set for where to rent them and socks too!

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Unfortunately, it was already late at eight in the morning, all newly docked tunas were already shipped out for export or for canning. But we were still lucky to find a 34 kgs local tuna. Local in the sense that it can't be exported due to its meat quality.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Still, we enjoyed our time in its fish market. We found different types of fishes and sea creatures which they all send out for retail in different parts of the country.

It would have been nice to return back in the next day and really see the action at the port early morning. But we had no other chance and so we ended up missing all these things instead.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

General Santos to Tupi

Sister in law's city is in Koronadal but they had to fetch us from General Santos and on our way, we stopped by a town rich with fruits - Tupi.

A long stretch of fruit stands lined up a few meters away from the highway. And without knowing, we were welcomed and treated with royalty from the fruit stand sellers. There were actually trees around the area with ready to be picked fruits like Durian and Rambutan. It was mesmerizing to see them ripe and ready for harvest!

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

At the stand, the seller offered free pineapples, free taste on their Rambutan and Mangosteen. Of course, we also bought some items like a few kilos of Longcong Lansones, Mangosteen which James himself almost finished and rambotan which were really sweet and tasty!

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

We ate them along the way towards Koronadal City. It was not too long before we reached another destination - Mariano's Blooming Agri-Tourism Park.

I got really excited to get in but the dark skies started to cry and so we were limited to moving around the area. Bringing our umbrellas, we had to just move forward to the sunflower garden where they were definitely blooming in beauty!

It seems the location is still new, it was just a year old but it has lots of potential with a lot of flowers around growing and farmers still planting their way to cover the huge land.

Stop at Mariano's Blooming Eco-Tourism Park

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The rain didn't stop from pouring and so we headed to Marbel without really being able to enjoy the entire Mariano's Blooming Eco-Tourism Park.

The roads were wide, vehicles were moving swiftly and fast along the high way but I also spotted a couple of checkpoints with real armies and policemen visible around the high way. The Mindanao is under Martial Law but I didn't feel scared at all. In fact, seeing these men made me feel secure and safe. I recall those days when I was still working in Dubai, there were many policemen everywhere.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

I can totally say that this is a place I would like to see in any part of the country. The military is active, the trees and bushes at the roadside are healthy and were full in green, houses aren't standing next to each other, they got their own backyards to tend. Every now and then, I could spot homeowners selling fruits at their front yard facing the road. There were Marang, Durian, Mangosteen, Rambutan, and Lansones. Some had Guavas and Bananas too! It was actually a season for these tropical fruits and so the prices here are very affordable compared to that in Cebu City or Bohol.

Imagine buying a Durian there would only cost Php 30 per kilo while in Cebu, it would cost hundreds of pesos. I was even attempted to buy more than five kilos of Durian just to eat by myself because it was so cheap and very delicious. One fruit stall had given us a free one to try and it was super good!

Lunch at KCC Mall in Marbel City

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

A late lunch took place in KCC Mall. It was my first time, in fact, all of us have not reached this part of the country until that day and we were so glad to find that this city is actually blooming too!

There were multiple structures being constructed but still, it has a taste of being rural. It was only in Marbel City that buildings and malls are available, outside of it, the location still looks very plain and rural.

KCC Mall is just like any other shopping mall in the country. They got fast food restaurants but we opted to eat at their food court where there were many soup options and the food is just ready to be ordered and served.

Check in at Greenstate Suites

At three, we got our room ready at Greenstate Suites. Affordable and good for the family. For just Php 1760, we got a combo room good for eight persons. Each room can accommodate four guests and the rooms had been separated by a door which can then be used to join the two rooms together if your a big family just like us.

WIFI connection was good and the staffs were all accommodating and polite.

Dinner at Sister in Law's Place

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The entire family was treated with a dinner hosted by sister in law's family in Koronadal City. There was local rice served, it was sticky like that of the Japanese rice, there was also local corn which was also sticky when cooked. Chicken Adobo ala Koronadal City as for how we refer their own served dish.

After all of us were filled and full, the rain started pouring heavily, it was as if there was a typhoon in the city. We got desserts too while waiting for the rain to stop.

It was an hour of waiting and realized that the rain got no plans of stopping that we decided to brave out and fight the rain to get to our hotel. We arrived safe and sound.

Our night ended early, we got to get ready for our second day in Mindanao, the next day, we were on our way to Lake Sebu! That ends our first day trip in Mindanao, Philippines!

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This blog entry was written and published by Jean Beltran-Figues for bitlanders.com. 

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Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The night's strong rain halted as the early morning's sun appeared. However, it was diffused by the dark skies which were again warning us of another rainy day. We couldn't do anything about it because of the fact that its nature, but while I was contemplating if we could really pursue what we had planned, the locals here are actually happy that it rained for a reason that the rain visits them not so often.

Here I am once more for another travel blog, telling you of the wonderful Lake Sebu in South Cotabato and it's many tourist destinations which a day won't be enough to cover them. So, let's start moving from the starting point down to the last destination.

Koronadal to Lake Sebu

Got an early check out from Greenstates Suites, sleep was undisturbed but even more relaxed with the sound of the strong rain above our roof. The coldness of its air conditioning was beyond expectation too and as much as I want to wake up early, I couldn't, my body was attached to the bed as well as James' who was just right there next to me.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Eventually, the rest of the family had prepared themselves for our next adventure and we doubled our preparation time as our service vehicle arrived.

It was eight so we headed down to McDonald's for a drive through but it took a lot of time since we ordered meals good for 11 heads. Still, we decided to eat on the road on the way to Lake Sebu instead. Everyone was filled with caffeine and protein and so off we go.

I could see evident its peaceful and bountiful side, the roadside lands had been used for farming, there were cabbages, corn plants and other greeneries along the way. The wide road was also very helpful, there was no traffic at all compared to that in Cebu when traveling towards its Southern and Northern parts. The difference is quite evident and at some point, I thought it would be really nice to live in this kind of community.

Lake Seloton's Sunrise Garden Lake Resort

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Our head point destination was the Sunrise Garden Lake Resort, this is the sole resort which offers accommodation at the edge of Lake Seloton, the second of the three lake sets of Lake Sebu municipality.

It is important to note that Lake Sebu is a municipality name which was derived from its biggest lake, Lake Sebu while it also has two other lakes in it, Lake Seloton and Lake Lahit. Don't worry if that confuses you, I was also confused before really reaching there and was told by our skylab driver.

We reached the resort at an early hour, at quarter to ten and we requested for early check in which they allowed since there was no guest in the said reserved room. It was great that the rain was not too harsh as we had kids along with us.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

As we were already perfectly situated, I went for a swim at their pool together with the three kids, the rest of the adults were chicken of the coldness of the pool water, only the kids and I braved the bad weather.

However, the sun started to shine, we then thought of pursuing Lake Sebu's 7 Waterfalls which was just a few minutes away from the resort. The staffs arranged Skylab drivers to fetch us and show us the tourist spots along the municipality. It was at that time that I realized there are so many other spots that can be explored within this town.

Unlike other tourist spots which we had been to, this town is just cool, not many people around but there are still visitors along the way.

Lunch at Punta Isla

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Our first destination was at Punta Isla where we had lunch at their floating restaurant. I will create a separate blog about this because it requires a lot of talking and detailing but what I couldn't forget was the special number showcasing the native instruments and local dances performed by pure T'boli individuals while we wait for our orders.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The view of Lake Sebu was also great, it is wide and full of Tilapia fishes, even birds had a feast here. They got in place floating restaurant as well as one which takes guests around the entire lake. But while this is the biggest lake, it isn't that deep compared to that of Seloton.

T'boli Museum

When we were asked which places we'd like to visit, we decided to combine a Lake Sebu experience, T'boli culture and nature treat at the 7 Waterfalls. It's already almost two in the afternoon when we were done with lunch so we headed directly to the T'boli Museum.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

I was expecting a huge area but this was actually just a small hut with artifacts and instrumental items used by the first few T'boli locals. They have accessories, antiques, gongs, T'boli costumes, artifacts and some of their industrial machinery.

Its a simple place with some local T'boli kids surrounding the building, I missed taking a photo of these kids as we were already running out of time going towards the 7 Waterfalls and they have a time limit.

Seven Waterfalls

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

One of the places to really look forward to when visiting Lake Sebu is the seven waterfalls. Its a spot with seven waterfalls in it and since only two of these can be accessed, they made a zip line which allows the individual to see the waterfalls from above while moving from point A to point B of the waterfalls.

There are two zip lines from the first waterfalls and then another one going to the second waterfalls and they charge at a very affordable price. They also offer a photo shoot while on the zip line with the waterfalls in the background plus they got action cameras for rent too!

Video credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

It was an exhilarating experience and I want to go take the zip line again after that less than a minute ride. The waterfalls were beautiful from above, I wish they can be accessed too in the future but I was already okay with seeing them from a distance. The only issue was that it started pouring while we were waiting for our turn on the way to the second waterfalls.

Anyway, it was a great experience, it was my second zip line, first was in the Lava front of Mount Mayon. Zip lines can be liberating in fact! I love the feeling of being able to see things from above.

Boodle Fight Dinner at Sunrise Garden Lake Resort

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Prior to this trip, I had already arranged that the resort prepares a boodle fight dinner for the family. They have one which is good for 8-10 heads. I originally planned on having it next to the lake but because of the rain, we ended up at the at their resto bar instead.

The viands available were mostly made of Tilapia fishes, but there was soup and drinks included! Of course, the first thing to ran out was rice, but the service was fast enough to add extra rice to the table.

Here's a video of our boodle fight moments, don't be judgemental guys!

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

The night ended with a live band singing session hosted by the resort. There were several guests who came out of their rooms and joined the fun! The one-man band with his own acoustic guitar was very entertaining and cool, he sang a lot of songs and even made rapport with the audience!

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

While my brothers stayed up to listen to the songs played by the lone singer, I, on the other hand, had spent the rest of my night taking long exposure shots of the resort and the Lake Seloton. That ended our second day tripin Mindanao.

______________________________________________________________________________________________

This blog entry was written and published by Jean Beltran-Figues for bitlanders.com. 

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The mobile screen blinks for notification, the comfort room lights were on, the tripod's gone as well as the camera gears, this means James woke up earlier than I did so I got to stand on my feet and hurry up before I miss the sunrise.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Here's another travel blog stating about the sheer splendid beauty of Sunrise Garden Lake Resort in Lake Sebu as well as our family trip back to Koronadal City down to Polomolok. Read on as I treat you with Mindanao Philippines' seldom explored destinations.

Chasing Sunrise at Sunrise Garden Lake Resort

At last, after two days, the rain has stopped, I could literally see the light as I walked down the stairs from the second floor where our room named Aurora is located. It was a little dark, I couldn't see anyone but I am pretty sure James' somewhere in the dimmed resort.

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Shouted for his attention and he came out from behind one of the resort's cottages. Yes, he had set up his gears already, the camera tripod legs were all spread out, keeping the balance with the weight of the Panasonic Lumix GH85 on top of it while the Canon M50 was still inside his side bag, I was assuming he was waiting for me so to man the gear.

James had already found a spot for the sunrise but it was too cold that I had to embrace myself before really having the courage to pick up the camera and find a spot for myself to capture photographs. Sunrise and sunset are both two times of the day which taking photographs and being amazed by the beauty of nature shouldn't be missed most especially that we were in the southern part of the Philippines.

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Whilst waiting, more and more guests, as well as my family members, started showing up. They were also waiting for the rise of the mighty sun just like us! In fact, we also spotted three or more guests with professional cameras on hand, they said they were there to take shots for a book which they couldn't spill the name just yet. James and I were drolling over their long-range camera lenses!

Almost Sunrise

I couldn't help but sing a positive song while the clock ticks its way to sunrise. The yellow ambient light of the sun peaking through the mountains of South Cotabato tells that it has 50-50 chances, we still held onto the hope but unfortunately, it was just almost sunrise as the light was diffused by the thick dark skies.

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No more sunrise to look forward, we both stopped the camera from taking multiple time-lapse shots and just looked for another spot to take photos and motion pictures of the local fishermen sailing their way into the lake. They look pretty appreciate as they maneuver into the fish ponds with fences made out of nets.

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Family Portrait Pictorial

As breakfast ended with the last drop of local native coffee from my cool cup, I personally asked every one of the family to gather at the lakeside where there were floating blooming lotus flowers. The pink flowers of these aquatic plants are just a joy to see, they are also photogenic that's why I opted to get to that part where they were visible when sitting next to the lakeside.

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It also helped that there were paddle boats docked and we used it to our advantage to take shots within it and even standing in it which my sister in law did!

The photos turned out pretty nice, I love to see family members having good photos to be used as either their social media cover and profile photos or else James and I can just add them to our portfolio. We had set up a blog and paid for its hosting and domain for three years which I believe will help us improve with our photography and blogging skills.

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Of course, the entire family also had our own family portraits taken but it was just challenging that the sun was already up and the skies were super bright at that point. Even so, we still managed to take certain shots and pretty much content with how it ended.

Drone shots as well are very essential in travel photography and videography so James flew his own DJI Spark to capture such angles and bird's eye view footage.

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The resort offers other water activities such as biking, stand up paddle and fishing. There's a pool too both for kids and adults which was just right next to our room so the adults were all watching over the kids as they were swimming and enjoying the waters. I personally also had a dip and was surprised by the coldness of the water even though it was already sunny.

Indeed, the rain had swept away and the sun was all out that day.

Check Out and En Route to Koronadal City

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Sunrise Garden Lake Resort was very nice by hosting us until 12 noon although we had checked in early the previous day. Unfortunately, we couldn't be fetched by my sister in law's brother so we ended up inquiring if the resort can send us to the bus terminal.

Fortunately, they were able to contact someone who can pick us up from the resort and even send us over to Koronadal City! I truly appreciate that the resort staffs were very accommodating in answering all my questions and requests, they are the best! They envy us being able to come and visit their town while they have not been able to travel to Bohol or Cebu just yet.

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It was just amazing that the travel time from Lake Sebu to Koronadal was just an hour or so, comparing to travel time in Cebu to its Southern parts, this is way better with roads that are wide enough and traffic free, it is evident that no time will be wasted while on the road. I even took a hyperlapse video to show you how smooth our trip was since I was seated at the front next to the driver.

We reached Koronadal City, stopped by KCC Mall for another set of lunch at their food court and even bought certain containers for our Durian souvenirs.

Koronadal City to Polomolok

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Our third day was all about land trips. From Lake Sebu, we went to Koronadal City via a van for hire. Then we had to go to Polomolok City this time to stay for the rest of the night at our sister in law's sister's house which has an interesting backyard, this I will share in a separate blog.

But before that, we had to buy our "Pasalubongs". The Durian was very affordable here for Php 30 a kilo. One small piece of Durian fruit was a kilo and so we ended up buying more than 15 kilos altogether. The kind vendor who said those were from her sole Durian tree was very thankful to us that she gave us more than 5 kilos of free Durian.

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On the way, we stopped by several stalls to buy Mangosteen and Rambutan. Of course, we have to also get some Durian candies from Tupi. It was fun getting up and down the car just to buy those items.

Before the night started, we were already at Polomolok City. We were so tired of the land trip that we ended up sleeping very early! The next day was a goodbye to Mindanao but prior to leaving, we had a treat from the local workers of DOLE Philippines.

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This blog entry was written and published by Jean Beltran-Figues for bitlanders.com. 

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And just like that, August had drifted too fast away! It's already September once this blog is reviewed but it is 31st of August while I was writing this so it's a great feeling to be saying goodbye to a month which has given me relief and enjoyment. Relief in a sense that it has been two months after my operation anniversary and enjoyment because I was able to travel together with the family and everything went well.

Speaking of the family travel, I am here again to continue with what commenced during our three nights four days trip to Mindanao specifically in General Santos, South Cotabato and Koronadal City, oh, and Polomolok too! Oh, am so pumped right now to talk about our first destination - General Santos City Fish Port Complex!

Welcome to General Santos City Fish Port Complex

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Filled with vehicles both for land and sea, the numerous people chants and vehicle noise made me felt like I was at our local wet market back in Bohol. The familiar smell which reminded me of my late grandfather who was a fisherman himself came flashing into my mind as I hopped out of the taxi which sent us to General Santos City Fish Port Complex.

We came from the General Santos City Airport which was around 15 minutes drive away from the port complex via a cab because my brother in law was late in fetching us up. That, however, didn't stop us from moving on to our main agenda, to see huge tunas!

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General Santos City Fish Port Complex is quite a long name but its name just suits well with what this complex is all about. General Santos City is dubbed as the Philippines' Tuna Capital, but more likely to be referred as Gensan, and Manny Pacquiao's home province. Yes, if someone talks about General Santos City, somehow at some point, I can see Manny Pacquaio in his boxing gloves with a sweaty and serious face ready to give a job to his opponent in a boxing ring. Indeed this man had given so much pride to this city and province overall that I also thought of availing his Manny Pacquiao  or PacmanTour but since we only got a short time in the city, we better thought of going somewhere more wallet-friendly.

What to See at General Santos City Fish Port Complex?

With our two hours stay within the port complex, I have seen quite enough action. There were so many things going on here and there but we missed our ultimate goal, however, it wasn't that unlucky after all as we found a 34 kilos local tuna!

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But before I expand on that one, let me remind you that anyone who wants to come here has to wear boots, its definitely required and short pants are not allowed unless you got something underneath it like leggings. I had researched about it and was able to advise my family members to bring their own socks just to be sure not to get any contamination from wearing the boots.

There are also boots for rent inside the complex for Php 35, it can be used for the entire day. All of their boots are also properly sanitized so it was great to know that, in fact, we also saw their sanitizing elements outside the room where we rented them.

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Going back, here are the things in action that we saw while in the port complex. Note that this is a huge area thus we only roamed around a few sections but these are just the common sighting.

1. Friendly Workers

This huge complex employs about 8,000 workers! Most if not all of them are super friendly, they wear that genuine smile and utmost welcoming spirit to every visitor, especially to co-Filipinos which is why I am putting this on my number one list.

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It was almost nine in the morning when we arrived, obviously, as per the person whom we rented the boots, there's a huge chance that we won't be able to see any gigantic tuna but still, we kept being positive that we will see one.

Right before we reached the sea vessel boats, a group of workers accommodated us telling that most tunas had been either packed for export or sent out to some tuna canning plantations within the city. They were a little sad to tell us that we should have come earlier. With a heavy heart, we thanked them but before leaving that part to move on to the wet marketplace, another worker who was pushing on a wooden cart called our attention, he had a tuna on his cart, it was a joy to see one that big.

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All of us were totally thankful that these workers did their best to accommodate us and it was already fine with us to see a 34-kilogram tuna!

2. Different Types of Tuna

If you aren't aware just yet, General Santos City is one of the biggest export provider of tuna to Japan, the United States and the rest of Asia. Tuna are saltwater fish which has 15 species, here in this part of the country, Yellowfin, Longtail, Bullet and Skipjacktunas are the most common.

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Every morning, as fishermen start docking into the port, they also begin unloading heavy box containers of tuna. Most of them have been freshly caught while some are already iced to keep its freshness while fishermen stay in their boats for days, some would even stay for a month.

Life of a tuna fisherman isn't easy, most especially these days when the number of tuna catch start to become scarce due to several reasons. It is indeed a blessing when they catch one. Once they reach the port, the meat of the fish is tested right away to identify if this is for export or for the local market. A stevedore or longshoreman carries each fish on his shoulder, most of the time these fishes are bigger than the carrier, then being weighed.

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To test the quality of the fish, a Sashibo or a long steel instrument is plunged into the fish, just right above its pectoral fin. The extracted meat will then be used to judge if this is for export or if it stays within the local market. Value price will obviously matter.

General Santos City Fish Port Complex also had been recognized by the Guinness World Records for the largest fish display consisting of 25,594.49 kilograms of Yellowfintuna on September 11, 2014.

3. Vessels, Boats, Ships, and Marketing of Marine Products

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Because this is a fish port, it is evident that you'll also find numerous fishing vessels, of different sizes and colors. Being in the port, everywhere you look, the fishing boats are all over the place. Some of them are just docking, some may perhaps be waiting for fishermen to board while some are just chilling.

But the action can be found at those boats which are just starting to unload their caught fishes other than tuna. These are also being sent to the wet market where these will be sent out to different parts of the country.

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Other marine products we found inside were squids, octopus, shells, different types of fishes, they were all in buckets and huge basins. Others are also dried ones like tuna meat and tuna jaw which are really popular in the province and even in the other parts of the country.

4. Souvenirs for Sale

The General Santos City Fish Port Complex also had brought thousands if not millions of visitors from different parts of the country and the world into the city just so they can witness this great catch of local fishermen.

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So it is obvious that there's a huge market for souvenirs too! Within the port, souvenir items such as keychains, refrigerator magnets and shirts with prints. These items are just sold at a very affordable price so any visitor can surely get one for themselves. I had bought three sets of keychains, a few magnets which are in addition to our collection and a shirt for my brother.

I was also very thankful to the personnel who had let us stay in their air-conditioned office prior to leaving the complex. It really helped us rest while waiting for our vehicle.

Overall, even if we had missed some great tuna catch, we were still happy and quite contented with the learnings we earned at General Santos City Fish Port Complex.

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With a full stomach and a chewing mouth, the entire family went forward from Tupi, a town in South Cotabato which has an abundant supply of fruits. It got an array of fruit stands ranging from Durian to Mangosteen and a lot more, those which usually are priced at a high value in Cebu. Of course, we had to stuff ourselves with these because we rarely get to eat these type of fruits.

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On the way, my sister in law asked if I would like to go to a sunflower farm which we will be passing by on our way to Koronadal City. At first, I thought it would be the same sunflower garden offered in Cebu but since I am open to anything, I nodded. Next thing I knew, our driver had made a right turn towards the Mariano's Blooming Agri-tourism Park.

Today's blog is all about our side trip to a sunflower garden along Tupi, South Cotabato named Mariano's Blooming Agri-tourism Park and what are the things that can be done while visiting this garden?

Welcome to Mariano's Blooming Agri-tourism Park

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My favorite Guyabano fruit trees stood tall as the vehicle gets into a huge area, I personally couldn't find where the entrance area was but as soon as the vehicle came to a stop, I got out and found myself some photographs subjects right away. Flowers, succulents, and cacti - these made me excited and somehow I thought of the succulent display at Tagbilaran's Lite Port Building.

Stopped shooting as the security halted my family members for almost going inside without a ticket. James and I were both at the succulent area so I hurriedly went to look for where the cashier was.

A young man called my attention, there were three other staffs, all female at the hut where the young cashier asked me how many are we. I paid the right amount with the excitement of going inside but we still had to wear their wristbands which signify that we had paid and are allowed to get in.

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On my right was a greenhouse area, several garden soil beds with young juvenile plants lay, the workers were as well spotted planting or perhaps getting rid of weeds, I was not hundred percent sure what they were up to. But I noticed them and was also entertained by the patterns of the floor tiles, for me, they look like doodles and I seriously want to doodle at that moment.

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After passing by several doodle tiles, plant shrubs and some gardening materials, we stopped by their aisle landscape but the skies started pouring and we had no other choice but to look for a shelter and here begins what I want to share as the things that can be done while inside the Mariano's Blooming Agri-tourism Park.

Pictorial at the Sunflower Fields

"Take photos or it didn't happen."

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One reason why I would always take photographs during travel is for remembrance and so at this beautiful blooming farm park, it is very mandatory that any visitor would walk down towards their sunflower garden and do pictorials, we did!

It was raining and because we are sure the rain isn't going to stop, we braced ourselves and went walking into the wetland. The park provides free umbrellas too which was good.

So then upon arrival at their sunflower garden which was really nice and beautiful with plenty of these are wonderfully landscaped and cultured by their workers, it is evident why it has the name blooming for itself.

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My brother even had a product photography right after their own too! Sunflowers are indeed pretty and very photogenic! Don't miss to do your own photoshoot when in the area!

Feed Sun Conure Parrot Birds

Loud, playful, active, spunky, feisty, intelligent, rowdy, fun, curious, comical, acrobatic, cuddly, nippy. These were just some of the characteristics of Sun Conure Parrots or also known as Sun Parakeets. Small in size but lovely in color. They live for 25 to 3- years and can be very sociable at times.

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My niece Aiesha was asking if she can get inside the cage where these birds were located, there were numerous of them inside and how can I refuse my niece? So, of course, both of us went inside, the fee was at Php 50 per person.

And as soon as we entered in, these cuties started asking for our attention. They went flying next to us, even landing on our heads especially my niece's who was really brave enough to hold feed seeds on her hand and so all of the parrots feasted on her palm. She, however, screamed a bit when she thought one of the birds bit her but it was just actually their feet.

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According to the caretaker, they are very trainable and can be very good at tricks. They were still young but are already used to seeing humans and interacting with them. Surprisingly, these birds have a good feel at kids so they just flock altogether near to my niece and started hopping around her, flying above and below as well as landing on her head. It was actually fun and to think that it only costs Php 50 is a good deal!

Dine in at their in-house Native Mirasol Café

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Aside from seeing flowers here and there, although some areas are still under development, one good reason why visitors can stay here for a full day is that they have their own restaurant cafe!

Mirasol Cafe offers different options such as TM Angus Steak to LGM's Fried Chicken and some Poqui Poqui which I am really curious what that's all about but aside from those mentioned, they also have garden salads which I believe all ingredients come from their own farm!

I was looking at their Facebook page and found a couple of photos posted which showed their food orders and I was definitely hungry while browsing. They also got seafood and pasta on their menu. Plus they are proud of their blue rice!

I regret that we didn't eat here, it would have been a good experience for sure especially that their interior design was also interesting. The photo posted here was just a preview from the outside which I took while I was looking for a shade when it started raining.

Join the Fruits Eat All You Can

Another thing that can be done here in Mariano's Blooming Agri-Tourism Park is joining their fruits eat all you can activity happening within this month!

Image credits: Mariano's Blooming Agri-Tourism Park Social Media 

Their first Fruits eat all you can was a hit and so they had arranged another event that caters all fruit lovers and even those who aren't but are willing to try their fruits!

I would love to join the said event because it is very affordable! Imagine paying only Php 170 for all the fruits! It would have been a cool adventure to try each and every single one displayed at the table!

Things to note:

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• Entrance fee is priced at Php 50 while kids are half the price and senior citizens are also given discounts as long as they show their ID.
• During weekends, the pricing increase to Php 70 for adults and Php 50 for kids. Note the difference!
• It is important not to litter inside, there are trash cans around the farm.
• Strictly no cutting, picking, removal, and destruction of any plant.
• Eating is not allowed in the garden or plantation area, one can eat at their Mirasol Cafe
• Stay on designated pathways and do not step on the crops!
• Picnicking is only allowed in pavilions and designated areas.
• No smoking, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes or similar devices permitted in the area!

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This blog entry was written and published by Jean Beltran-Figues for bitlanders.com. 

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The tone of the final shutter echoed in our rented empty room of Greenstates Suites in Koronadal City or sectionally referred to as Marbel. Room rates here are quite affordable. The seven members of the family were able to occupy two attached rooms for less than Php 1700.

It was seven in the morning but we have to check out pretty advanced as we were on our way to the my most anticipated place while in South Cotabato - Lake Sebu.

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Today's blog, I would like to bestow with you the many ways on how you can appreciate as well as savor the great beauty of this blessed municipality of South Cotabato.

How to Enjoy Lake Sebu, South Cotabato?

It was all about rain in the first two days of being in Mindanao or rather in South Cotabato. We rested under a thundering Koronadal City yet we didn't let rain hinder us from pursuing what we had originally planned. It was a miracle that during the trip, the rain had halted and started again only when we were already in our room at the Sunrise Garden Lake Resort.

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Whilst the rain paused before lunchtime, all of us managed to head to some of the tourist spots that can be visited. The resort staffs were all accommodating and had called a group of Skylab drivers to lead us to our destinations. But I was all amazed by how these drivers who are local T'boli ones welcomed us to their land.

James and I were entertained by Kuya Mark Meyen, he is the current head of the Skylab drivers' association in Lake Sebu and who had directed us to their Tourist Destinations Information Bulletin located at their local terminal. Every tourist has to log their names for proper guest monitoring.

To fully enjoy Lake Sebu, there are three ways to do this as follows:

Emerge in their Magnificent Culture

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The T'bolis are very creative and artistic, they have several items that anyone can unquestionably be interested in. Also, these items reflect their lives and culture.

Bead Making which is becoming part of their income-generating activities most especially to the housewives and even the elder women in the municipality is one of these talked about creative works. These beads are then sold at the tourist spots such as the Seven Waterfalls and displayed, showcased or exhibited at museums!

I personally bought some beads for myself and my niece too because they are very affordable compared to those that are sold here in Cebu. I bought mine for only Php 35 per piece!

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Brass Casting, on the other hand, is the act of which local men and even women would make bronze into brass belts, bells, and bracelets as well as anklets.

Wood Carving, I suppose most Filipinos are really into art because even in Mindanao, wood carving is also widely done. The T'bolis use indigenous materials that produce Hegelung which is a wooden two-stringed lute which T'bolis used as their principal musical instrument and other wooden pieces with specific indigenous designs.

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To further see the T'boli culture in flesh, certain cultural performances are being performed on certain spots within the land. One was in the restaurants of Punta Isla Lake Resort while floating at the waters of Lake Sebu, some young performers go around each area to manifest their local instruments, dance their cultural choreography and even allow guests to take photos with them.

We personally encounter this and it was a very nice performance! I rarely see those types of dances but it brings me back to my grade school years. Indeed those dances aren't just a creation out of the imagination by our teachers but are really real ones danced by local T'bolis.

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T'boli Museum showcases more of the ancient remnants of those which were used in the ancient times of the T'boli tribe such as their instrumental equipment, their dresses, their house plans, the jewelry and accessories and even their house decorations! In this part of the tour, we have seen with our own eyes those of which had been centuries old. Included in the many items are also the weaved materials like clothing and household furnishing with those T'boli patterns.

Make note that the T'bolis are also referred to as the Dream Weavers!

Try Out the Exciting Adventure Activities

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After discovering about their culture and immersing with their ancient items, let's move on to the exciting adventures that can be arranged whilst within Lake Sebu.

Ziplines can never be last in the list. At the seven waterfalls, the ziplines will allow the visitors to see the other five bodies of water because currently, only the first and second waterfalls are accessible.

There's no better way indeed to see them but through sliding through a line from the first waterfalls down to the second. The rush of air on your face and the view of the magnificent water rapids of each waterfall is surely worth all the fees!

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And because Lake Sebu takes repletion in their bodies of water like the falls and of course the lakes, anywhere in the municipality, there are so many water activity opportunities such as Kayaking and Water Biking. They are also offered in certain resorts while in Lake Sebu, lake cruise is available.

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SkylabRide is another matter that the locals here are gratified of. As most tourist destinations are hard to be traversed by foot, it is recommendable to either rent a vehicle. A van is the most comfortable but it is also great to experience a Skylab ride which literally means riding on a motorcycle with more than one back riders.

Other exciting activities are Bird Watching and Trekking!

Be Amazed at their Wonderful Nature

But the best thing about Lake Sebu is the fact that it got three beautiful lakes: Lake Sebu, Lake Seloton, and Lake Lahit. Each of which offers equal beauty!

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At each lake, there are diverse Lotus plants floating in the waters of each lake which coincidentally bloom every single morning, regardless if the sun rises or just hiding behind thick clouds. The best spot to go to witness them most especially in the morning is to check in at Sunrise Garden Lake Resort.

More wonderful nature that can be explored in their Seven Waterfalls, their springs, and rivers, cave and activities suggested like Spelunking.

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Deciding from these list of options may become overwhelming and most of the time, only a few pursuits can be performed in a day which is why staying in Lake Sebu requires more than a day or so so that a tourist or local visitor can definitely see and experience most if not all of their tourist destinations.

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With a very limited time of two days and one night, our plans for the first entire family trip was still fulfilled and I am more than happy about that. I would have minded the rain but it was something that we can't really avoid. It's inevitable most especially during these months where rain and storm would normally or better yet commonly visit the country. It's the rainy season after all!

The previous blogs had been a topic about Mindanao, its great tourist destinations most especially that of Lake Sebubut those previous blogs deal about the general things to do. Today, what I am going to talk about are the individual things or activities which we had done as a family and more details about it.

As a Family, What We Did at Lake Sebu?

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It is way better if I would state these activities in order, from the time we arrived up to the end of our Lake Sebu adventure. It is true that traveling with a group of family is not easy, most especially if you have senior citizens and toddler with you. However, it seemed that we were able to manage to enjoy Lake Sebu as a whole family instead of being wary about expenses, travel time and more. True enough, if it was just the two of us, things would have been different, more tourist spots might have been visited but I didn't regret anything.

The family that travels together, stays together!

And just like how travel had made our relationship (James and I) stronger, this was also a good way for everyone in the family to become closer as well.

Here below are fun activities which can be done with the entire family. Whilst there are some which require strength, the elderly and younger ones, as well as the faint hearted, were not able to do such.

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1. Played Billiards and Other Games at Sunrise Garden Lake Resort

Sunrise Garden Lake Resort was the resort which we stayed during our two days and one night Lake Sebu exploration. The resort has a lot of amenities to try on and one which was very friendly to everyone was billiards. It was unfortunate that I forgot to take photographs, perhaps that was because I was enjoying the bonding that I forgot about it.

The rain was a decoy for us to also explore other things within the resort and it brought laughter most especially to my brothers and father. It has been a while since they had played the sport so it was a breath of fresh air to hold the cue stick and pretend to be a master of the game!

2. Skylab Riding

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Habal-habal as how we refer to these motorcycle ride back in Bohol and Cebu. This is when a motorcycle is used for hire with two or more passengers in it.

The need to go to different spots within Lake Sebu forced us to take the Skylab ride because there was no other vehicle which could accommodate every one of us.

I was first concerned for my parents and the young ones but it looked like everyone had even enjoyed the ride! It even rained on our way back to the resort but nobody had complained about it.

3. Watch T'boli Danced at Punta Isla

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Punta Isla means the last island and there's a resort at Lake Sebu's last island called Punta Isla Lake Resort. It has an overlooking view of Lake Sebu and since the lake is the biggest and widest amongst the three in the municipality, it is the lake which gets a lot of attention for tourists.

They offer a lake cruise too but the best thing that we as a family found here was the T'boli Music and Dance presentation.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

We were waiting for our lunch to be served. It took some time for our orders to arrive but our boredom was taken away when four individuals hopped in the floating restaurant and began playing musical instruments and danced T'boli original steps.

Truly, I was entertained by the upbeat music with just bamboo instruments used and the dances which imitated certain bird or animal actions. I must mention the dancers' belts which added sound effects during their presentation!

4. Dined in and Ate Tilapia Local Dishes at Punta Isla in Lake Sebu's Floating Restaurant

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Perhaps the very best way to experience the culture of a certain place is through food and that is also applicable there in Lake Sebu. Since the common livelihood is fishing in the lake, it is just understandable that their menu involves Tilapia fishes.

Pinausukang Tilapia, Kinilaw na Tilapia, Linagpang na Tilapia, Sinanglay na Tilapia just to name a few. But there are still a lot on the list, we only tried the ones mentioned. However, they are also not limited to that, they got chicken and other options.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

Dining at a floating restaurant isn't that much exciting compared to that of a cruise, however, we all enjoyed the manual boat ride from the mainland going to the floating restaurant.

Prices are a little high but still acceptable. I recommend trying out their Pinausukang Tilapia. Although they taste just like any other fish out there, it is still good to be able to taste something new to the palette.

5. Learned More About the T'boli Culture at the Local Museum

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

I have talked about the things that can be seen within the local T'boli Museum and although it isn't that of a big house to accommodate a family of big members, I mean the flooring was made of bamboo and some wood which looked sturdy, there were areas where we almost got stuck in between those braces.

But the interesting part was really the rich culture stored inside this four-cornered room. The family had a very short time here but it was still memorable most especially when we tried some of their musical instruments. It would have been nice if we wore traditional costumes and try to dance at the banging sound of the gongs.

6. Felt the Zipline Rush at Lake Sebu's 7 Waterfalls

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Although not every one of the family was able to do this, it was still a great place to go to with the group. The first and second waterfalls were just accessible and so it is recommended for the family to have a photo opportunity at any of these falls.

But the highlight here was the zip line which was why four of the family members tried it and were all satisfied with the excitement and fun we all experience as we slid through the zip line overlooking the beautiful five waterfalls of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.

The white waters dropping sent a visual illusion as if we were also about to drop but it was more of a fun experience that fear was immediately taken away as soon as the body weight and gravity pulled us to move.

7. Buy Souvenirs at 2nd Falls

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Of course, souvenirs will never be exempted when visiting a new spot such as Lake Sebu so it was a good bonding time to be looking at T'boli tribe items like native bags, but most were made of cloth. They also have shirts with prints about Lake Sebu plus the accessories like the bracelets made of beads and necklaces.

There were also keychains and refrigerator magnets available for a souvenir. Again, I took that opportunity to get myself a magnet with Lake Sebu printed on it. My mother, on the other hand, was able to get herself a new bag!

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

I am hundred percent sure that if we had more time, we could have gone to more tourist spots in Lake Sebu, not to also mention that the rain was another hindrance to our happy trip.

Anyway, it was still nice and we all enjoyed it!

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Thanks for reading!

About the author:
Jean Beltran-Figues is a photography enthusiast. 
A traveler who wants to promote her beloved country, the Philippines. 

Guitars.

Image credits: Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter

Those who play one plucks the strings or strums them, turns the keys and pegs to correct the guitar's tuning, the string vibrations are picked up by the electric pickups or perhaps if acoustic, the strums can possibly go into the soundhole and produces that beautiful sound of strings.

All over the world, guitars had been used widely for several reasons but the main purpose of this fretted musical instrument is for music. It produces music that can either be acoustic or electric. It got several variations among which any music and instrument lover can select to play from.

But not all guitars are good ones. There are really badly made ones and yet there are those which we can refer to as real quality ones. Today's blog is all about how a good guitar is made and this comes straight from someone who's family business is through guitar making.

Qualities of a Good Guitar

Image credits: Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter

First and foremost, let me set a proper disclaimer here that I am not a guitar player, I know a few chords but won't pass to be referred to as a PRO in strumming the strings with my finger or a pick. But my husband James is a music lover, he learned to play the instrument as early as elementary days but still not going to be considered as another PRO. It takes a lot of practice and time to become one.

Anyway, that topic is not actually related to what we are going to learn today, I just stated that to set an expectation. All information here is provided by a colleague friend of James.

Image credits: Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter

First, let's define how can we determine if a guitar is of good quality?

1. Type of wood used and body construction

2. The Hardware materials

3. Workmanship

Image credits: Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter

How Are Handcrafted Good Quality Guitars Made?

When was the last time you held a guitar? Or perhaps a Ukulele? Do you have an idea how much that instrument was? Did you ask the owner or the seller in case you were in a music shop or something?

Do you think that was around a hundred dollar? Or perhaps two hundred or three hundred dollars?

What if I tell you that there are far more expensive than that. See the images below:

Image credits: Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter

Yep, those are real price tags and I know your eyes are now widely opened to the point where your eyeballs' gonna fall out but these are real prices and here are the reasons why they are priced that high.

1. Wood
2. Luthier
3. Hardware

Below further, we'll deal with each of these factors. Note that we are going to look at an acoustic guitar for this blog and this type of guitar has around six major parts, mainly: the Pickguard, the Soundhole, the Bridge, the Saddle, the Bridge Pins and lastly the Strap Buttons. Electric guitars have more parts than the acoustic ones.

Without further ado, let's deal with each factor starting with the Wood!

The Wood

Image credits: Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter

This is the primary ingredient in making a guitar. The type of wood used matters a lot and will affect the sound of each acoustic sound. Some of the tonewoods used commonly: Mahogany, Maple, Sitka Spruce, Red Spruce, Brazilian Rosewood and Indian Rosewood then Koa. The list is based from the fender website.

In the Philippines specifically in Cebu's world-class guitar handcrafter, Ferangeli, they use Cocobolo, Acacia, Philippine Ebony, Philippine Mango wood, and a lot more.

Image credits: Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter

But any type of wood has water in it, water, however, occupies space and has a mass, more importantly, water evaporates. So each single wood material has to be dried up enough for the wood to become solid. Drying up a wood takes time of course and care too which means days or weeks or even months. Imagine having to dry up the wood during the rainy season?

In order to note the moisture of the specific guitar wood used, the guitar handcrafter or maker has to use a wood moisture meter. When the meter states it has 10% or less water in it, then a wood is ready!

The Luthier

Image credits: Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter

Cebu specifically in Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan has been widely known as the home of world-class guitars. It has a flourishing guitar industry and that this craftsmanship has been passed on by Spanish friars who trained the Cebuano villagers during the Spanish era.

Making a guitar takes time, it takes also effort, love, and craftsmanship. It is not an easy task thus it matters a lot who's your guitar's luthier. This word basically means someone who makes the guitar or lute. And when you want the best, it means also handing down the task to the best luthier, one who had spent years or better yet their entire lives in perfecting their craft.

Image credits: Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter

In Cebu, Ferangeli is one of the best players in terms of the guitar market in Cebu. The company is an active exporter of guitars, to different parts of the world such as California, Hawaii, Mexico and many more. Most of their guitars also are customized and are made for months to perfection!

Video credits: Aris Mape via YouTube

Bearing its original name as La Filipina Guitars in the 1900s, the family's third generation branched out to become Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter. With top-notched experience and research plus development, the head luthier, Fernando “Andoy” Dagoc trained their local ukulele and guitar makers.

Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter now focuses on making export quality instruments and aim to produce instruments with the best sound possible the wood can offer.

The Hardware

Lastly, a guitar can't be used with just the wood, the other parts have to be assembled and glued together to become a finished product.

Image credits: Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter

The process includes book matching, strutting or the gluing part, side construction, neck, fingerboard, bridge and saddle attachment to the body then the finishing starts after which comes inserting the tuning machine and lastly the strings. All of these requires tender care and only a mere seasoned luthier can perfect the process which usually takes two to three months per guitar.

Video credits: CrankyZombie Productionsvia YouTube

On top of that, most if not all guitars have been laid out with capiz shells or abalone types as well as some Mother of Pearls.

With all those work done with finishing one guitar, you might think how much would that cost? Well, for Ferangeli, their entry-level acoustic guitar starts at Php 14,000. Customized ones start from Php 18,000. But they also offer a personal guitar or ukulele making workshops!

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Thanks for reading!

About the author:
Jean Beltran-Figues is a photography enthusiast.
A traveler who wants to promote her beloved country, the Philippines.

It's almost Christmas season! After September comes October, then just two months to go, the season for canned fruit cocktails, sweetened kinds of milk, spaghetti sauce packs, and pasta will start again. Most grocery stores will fill up their aisle with hundreds of tall stacks of different Christmas food essential items!

Diet won't be remembered during those times and even though most Filipinos would say that they don't have money, even the simplest household will surely have something on their table.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Speaking of food and desserts on the table, one of the most common in the Philippines is the fruit salad. Most would use canned ones for this and one popular brand is DOLE.

Welcome to DOLE Philippines Plantation!

Known for its different canned pineapple products such as the crushed, sliced, chunked and tidbits as well as their tropical fruit cocktail and a lot more! When we think of DOLE, we directly think of pineapple.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

But they are not actually limited to just pineapple, they still have other products in the market too which don't have pineapples in them. All of their products are being distributed in the entire world market.

The company has given hundreds or thousands of jobs to the locals and even the neighboring citizens of Barangay Cannery Site, Polomolok, South Cotabato. It owns the largest pineapple plantation in the entire world with their 18,000 hectares of fields. This results in having the municipality of Polomolok as one of the richest municipalities in Mindanao because DOLE is their biggest taxpayer.

DOLE Pineapples from Farm to Grocery

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

During our visit to this wide plantation which has the beautiful Mount Matutum as a background, I had the chance to speak with the workers, those who were harvesting and also collecting the crowns which will be replanted.

I learned that there are stages in ensuring these pineapples are export quality.

1. At the Plantation Grounds

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

It starts with good specimens of pineapples, split for propagation. The variety of these pineapples were studied and even experimented inside laboratories to ensure big produce and quality.

However, once they are transferred to the plantation, grown and harvested, these existing plants' crowns will be reuse and reexamined for planting again. They go back to the nursery and are prepared for planting again.

A planted pineapple shrub will bear fruit thrice a year, after that, they'll be taken out and be ground for compost which is also used for the plantation grounds.

2. Harvesting

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

During the harvest, the hand picker workers stand in lines with a machine where they either manually put the fruits in an automatic conveyor belt, this is to ensure that they had harvested high quality produce.

Some fruits are left in the grounds because either they are too ripe or their sizes didn't pass the quality control.

The fruits will then be carried by trucks into the nearest packing shield. In the case of DOLE Philippines, the packing shield isn't too far from the plantation. In fact, we passed by it on our way to my sister in law's family house.

3. Packing

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

As soon as the pineapples reach the establishment, they are washed to take out any bugs or insects in it. Another set of washing is required to take out any residue.

Then the hand grading workers will then select the correct fruit for each market. There are also classes in terms of the size, shape, presentation, and color of the fruit. The workers will also attach the labels and place them in boxes.

4. Transportation

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

After getting packed, the fruits will then be refrigerated and transported to a port where the DOLE refrigerated ships, this is to ensure that the fruits arrive at the clients in great shape and condition.

From there, the pineapples will then be distributed and placed in different marketplaces all over the world.

There's a lot of workloads just to provide pineapples in the entire world. It is very nice to know that they come from a local municipality here in the country.

A Sweet Pineapple Treat at DOLE Philippines Plantation

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

On our last day in Mindanao, the family's flight was still at quarter to one in the afternoon and so we still had time to check out the plantation which was just behind the house of my sister in law's family.

Without hesitation, the group went and walked to a concrete road with side fields full of pineapple plants! It was a great time to take drone shots indeed!

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Of course, we had to be polite and asked the workers if it is fine for us to take photos and roam around, they positively agree and even allowed us to take photographs of them!

But the best thing was that they gave us pineapple fruits which were part of their harvest, which means they are quality ones and was a candidate to be shipped abroad! In short, those fruits are not in the Philippine market at all.

One of the thing that I have noticed with this variety was the fact that my tongue didn't hurt after eating a few slices. The plant's sword-like leaves aren't spiky too so when the workers were walking by them, they were very safe.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

After eating two fruits, the workers were so accommodating that they even allowed us to bring some overripe ones which were left in the grounds. These fruits will be left to decompose so it was a blessing to have them for breakfast as dessert! Sweet and very rich in texture!

Almost all of the workers were very friendly, they were very polite in answering all my questions. The company also provided them with housing and there's even a specific area in Polomolok where the neighborhood all works for DOLE.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

The best treat, however, was that we learned something new, we had taken lots of photographs with Mt. Matutum at the background, even posed for several shots with pineapples in our hands like we were pineapple models.

After several overhead videos and after getting full from all the pineapples we have eaten, it was time to go back and prepare for our flight.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The short yet educational tour to the DOLE pineapple plantation was very cool. I actually thought we will see pineapples in Bukidnon by October but thankfully, we had seen by our own eyes and even interacted with the plantation farmers and workers. It was a good day!

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About the author:
Jean Beltran-Figues is a photography enthusiast. 
A traveler who wants to promote her beloved country, the Philippines.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Cloudy, windy with a combination of rain plus a bumpy ride. The four-wheel vehicle came into a stop as the road ahead of us was filled with water and mud dirt. The driver estimated the distance he had to allow for the vehicle not to get into the filth.

After a successful pass, we felt relieved to finally see a sign of the resort we had been looking forward to staying at Although a little hard to get to the sole resort in Lake Seloton, we finally made it to Sunrise Garden Lake Resort.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

I would like to talk about my own and personal experience at this resort during our stay in Lake Sebu municipality. This review will cover the following:

Overall Resort Ambiance
The Family Room
Staff and Service
Amenities Available
The Reservation Process and Pricing

Lake Seloton's Sole Resort

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The municipality of Lake Sebu takes pride of their unique natural resources, three to mention are their three lakes, Lake Seloton, Lake Lahit and Lake Sebu which is the biggest and where the name of the municipality was derived. However, I have learned from a local T'boli that Lake Sebu is actually referred by the locals as El S'bu but since the outsiders call it as Lake Sebu, it was adopted instead of its original name.

But among the three lakes, its Lake Seloton which is the deepest which also means, it is the most abundant in terms of aquatic animals like Tilapia. It is the lake which has the most number of fish ponds too!

Within Lake Seloton, is a sole resort which has a pretty name. A name of which I like to witness, the Sunrise Garden Lake Resort. Allow me to share my own review about this resort.

Overall Resort Ambiance

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

If there's something which I love about the resort, it would be the lake view. The resort offers a great spot for taking photos at the lakeside where there were blooming lotus during the early morning. These pink lotus start to reveal their beauty as soon as the dawning light strikes.

Another thing that added beauty to it is the huge mountains which were a perfect background for the portraits. The water reflection was a plus as well as the local T'bolis who were in their paddle boats, they all added simple but very pretty view.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

But that would be the best area in the resort, after which the other corners were just so-so, just like how those common resorts look, with concrete buildings facing the pool and the lake.

The Sunrise Garden Lake Resort had already built their second building for their other rooms. Aside from that, they also have their own resto bar and other huts for those who are just day users.

The Family Room

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

A group of nine adults and three kids were assigned to a room named Aurora, this was the resort's air-conditioned family room. It was spacious enough, there were seven single beds and I requested to get an extra double bed so everyone can sleep comfortably.

It was air-conditioned and so it helped because we had kids with us. There's a personal comfort room too inside. The only issue was that it really smelled that I had to put a ripe pineapple just so it can help out with the bad smell which it did.

There was also a CRT television inside which was connected to a cable connection. I was glad that I was able to watch the women's volleyball game between the Philippines and Indonesia that Saturday night that we stayed there.

It was also facing the pool, however, we were on the second floor so it was giving us an overlooking view of the lake and the pool as well. It was also a good spot to have an early morning coffee while watching the sunrise.

Staffs and Service

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Although the comfort room's smell really turned me off when we arrived at our room, I was a totally happy camper because the staffs in the resort were helpful and accommodating. There were different times that they had shown that to us and let me enumerate them.

First was that we arrived really early on Saturday. We were like five hours ahead of our check-in time and when I asked them if we can have an early check in, they allowed it since there was no one inside the room.

The second time was that when we were looking for some vehicles which could take us to the Seven Waterfalls. They called the Skylab team and fetched us from the resort.

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

The third time was when we were on our way out of the resort. They again called some van for hire to fetch us from the resort to Koronadal City, our destination.

Aside from that, the resort staffs were also very friendly, they found ways to really build rapport. They even hoped that they can also come to Bohol or Cebu in the future.

Activities and Amenities

Video credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

At Sunrise Garden Lake Resort, there are many different things to do to entertain the guests. There are lake water activities, there are also billiards, live band every Saturday night and they got a pool too for kids and adults.

One of the interesting activity was the lake water bike. A guest can rent one unit and enjoy getting close to the lake since it doesn't require fuel, it is also environment-friendly plus its a good exercise too!

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Another activity is their Tilapia fishing! Guests can go fishing and buy their catch at a lower rate then request it to either take home or have it cooked in the resort's own restaurant.

The live acoustic band every Saturday night was also interesting. Since we stayed on Saturday night, we watched him perform. He doesn't only have a good voice but was also a total performer, he could speak fine English with a good accent, he also can talk in Ilonggo, Bisaya, and Tagalog so he was able to communicate to his audience pretty well.

On top of that, they offer a boodle fight which was super affordable. It was also prepared at our own preferred time and spot within the resort, adjusted as per our request too because of the rain.

The Reservation Process and Pricing

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Finally, my favorite part of the review was the reservation and pricing. Out of all the resorts and hotels that I had been in contact to during the last few years, this was the easiest, most convenient reservation I had ever experienced.

From contacting the resort through Facebook, the response rate was fast and straight to the point. The reservation didn't really require any down payment at all! The family room which has seven single beds was good for Php 2000 but they allowed all nine of us to stay in the room with additional double extra beds!

Then the same was the case with our boodle fight. After I found out that they offer boodle fight, I requested that they arrange one for us. It was as well confirmed within Facebook Messenger, no down payment asked and just trusted our conversation. The family meal which was good for 8-10 pax was only Php 1699!

Image credits: Jean Beltran uploaded via bitLanders

Aside from the bad weather on the first day and the smelly comfort room, I had no other issue with the resort. I had fun and enjoyed the location too most especially the lake where the lotus flowers were blooming. Although sunrise didn't happen on the second day, it still shone upon us giving us good lighting for our family photo shoot. I highly recommend visiting here for those who are coming over to Lake Sebu, South Cotabato soon.

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Join the Querlo chat below about travel:

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Thanks for reading!

About the author:
Jean Beltran-Figues is a photography enthusiast. 
A traveler who wants to promote her beloved country, the Philippines.

Video credits: vagabrothers via YouTube

Have you noticed that this generation has a lot of goals, financial goals, before reaching age 30 goals, there are even some fashion goals but the most common is the travel and relationship goals.

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via Facebook

True enough, traveling is now a popular thing, may it be domestically or internationally, everyone talks about the new spot to check on and travel blogs or vlogs are both on top of the "in" thing these years. Also, travel fares are cheaper because of seat sales and other promos provided by several airlines, at least in the Philippines.

This blog, however, is a list of the positive effects of what travel can do to nourish your relationship with your partner, I am promoting this given that you are married to your partner because although it is still good to travel or go out together with their boyfriends or girlfriends, it is also subject to temptation, it is better to go out with a group if you are still not married to your loved one.

1. Better Decision Making

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via Facebook

When my husband and I started traveling together, one of the things that we had to deal with was our decision making. It was tough and there were several times where we have to argue because of the results of our choices.

In traveling, decision making is one of the things that happens often. Every single side of the way, you'll meet something that you have to decide on, where to go next? Where to eat? What stuffs should we bring? Who's going to bring this and that? What specific area to take photos and so on.

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via Facebook

It is fine to argue, it is normal and it is definitely a common reaction to such but when traveling, it is important to be reminded that you are only with your partner, no other person you know of lives in this place so it is better to just cut off the argument and decide between yourselves and just feel good with whatever the outcome might be.

2. Better Money Handling

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via Facebook

The sad truth about traveling is that you need to shell out cash. True enough, every part of it needs cash, from the ticket to the hotel, even to the food and to get into several spots, there are entrance fees involve. When you go to the beach, there are boat rides and beach resorts that require charges, when you go to the mountain, money is still required.

Basically, money handling is important and it is one thing that as partners, you'll learn to improve on. Who should keep the allowance? Who should pay for the fare? Who should take note of every penny that was spent?

Video credits: Kristen & Siya via YouTube

Unless you are millionaires, then it is okay to spend and go out of your budget but if your funds are limited, then it is best to stick to your plans and spending budget. Eventually, if more travels permit in the future, it will help you as a couple to be good money spender and even budgeting becomes easy and efficient.

3. Perfect Time to Learn Each Other's Attitude

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via Facebook

When you are just alone together, it is the perfect time to learn about each other's attitudes, that specific attitude which only emerges when rough things happen during travel such as delayed flights, issues with travel agencies and even running out of cash.

Surely, the not so good things will bring out some not so good behaviors from your partner or perhaps it might be you personally who would break out and would show those bad characters. No one's perfect so it is definitely human to reveal the tough characters but it is important to compose yourself, keep your cool and try to be extra patient.

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via Facebook

It doesn't just end at learning each other's attitude, else, it should be about learning as well on how to train yourself not to give in to the bad mood. Sure there are bad days but it is just one bad day and the most important thing at the end of the day is your relationship.

If there's one thing that I have learned from my husband is that relationship is the most important thing, materials, and money, he can afford to lose but not the relationship.

4. Grow and Become Adults Together

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via Facebook

One thing is very certain in life when you got older, you'll realize that you don't need a lot of friends, only a few but real ones. However, in certain cases where the real friends are not there when traveling, it is your partner who's supposed to be your best friend.

On the road, you will talk a lot, you'll learn from each other's stories and you'll find comfort in finding similarities and common denominators in each other. The things that you share together will make your relationship stronger, it will nourish the bond and definitely, you'll always look forward to traveling together.

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via Facebook

Perhaps that's the reason why when we were starting with traveling, it became a thing that makes us look forward to the next. I would be a hypocrite if I'd say we had no more arguments, we still have some pity ones, but never had major issues anymore, we learned from all those arguments we had in the past and we definitely had learned to embrace each other's differences, making sure not to anymore do what we had done wrong in the past.

Today, when we are on the road, in a ship, in the air or even on the bus, we would cherish every issue we have, we try hard to learn from each other's mistakes, also to be extra careful with the choice of words when we get into some arguments or if ever we fight, we should always choose kindness and respect.

Conclusion

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via Facebook

After all these years, I would still give credits to our travel experiences, our fights over the tickets, over restaurant choices, arguments over money matters, the small things, the big issues, and even the tiniest stuff, our relationship is strong because of all that had happened before as well as that which will happen in the future, in our future travels.

So to those couples who want to grow together, reach those travel and relationship goals, start saving, start planning and realize your dreams together, support each other and always choose love over arguments.

Image edited in Canva credits: Jean Beltran via Facebook

I am also sure that traveling is not applicable to all, there are couples who are not into this and that is fine as well. Find what's best for your relationship. The bottom line is that you should look for the best option to nourish your relationship, give time to each other, invest in blossoming your relationship with your life partner.

----------------------------
Join the Querlo chat below about traveling:

----------------------------

Thanks for reading!

About the author:
Jean Beltran-Figues is a photography enthusiast. 
A traveler who wants to promote her beloved country, the Philippines.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via Bitlanders Society Facebook

There's a funny statement that says, "Calories don't count on the weekend." and so other states, "Don't mess up with someone who's hungry and angry."

Why am I stating this? Well, because we visited Punta Isla Lake Resortour of hunger. When our Skylab driver (habal-habal driver) asked us of where we would like to go for our Lake Sebu tour, we opted to go somewhere there's food for our lunch because all of us were already starving, like literally looking for food!

Fortunately, there are lots of restaurants around Lake Sebu however, the best place that the tour guide slash Skylab driver could refer us to was none other than Punta Isla Lake Resort.

Welcome to Punta Isla Lake Resort

Image credits: Jean Beltran via Bitlanders Society Facebook

At first, I thought this was just a restaurant, an eatery but I was already told by my sister in law that this has a floating restaurant available. The truth was that I was not anymore thinking of what the place could offer, as long as they have food, I thought I would be okay.

For T'bolis, Punta Isla means the far end island or basically the last island. As per our guide, the resort faces the biggest lake in Lake Sebu and is the last accessible part of the land which has direct access to the lake.

Because it is the sole resort facing the lake, it is also very popular with the locals and even those who are visiting the municipality. Most foreigners have taken this as one of their bucket list of places to go when in Lake Sebu and so we also did.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders Society Facebook

Obviously, Punta Isla Lake Resort isn't just an eatery which offers river cruise, it is far more than that. It offers a lot of amenities and activities and just like Lake Seloton's Sunrise Garden Lake Resort, it also has an almost unlimited supply of Tilapia fishes given that it is the biggest lake in all the entire municipality.

What to Do at Punta Isla Lake Resort?

The entire family came here to dine in, but after getting our stomach filled with good Tilapia dishes, we explored the location and found out some of their offered amenities.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via Bitlanders Society Facebook

I have here a list of things to do to entertain you and of which had entertained us in a way while within the resort. It is evident though that most of these activities are also available in the other Lake Sebu resorts and that is primarily because they belong to one specific area.

1. River Cruise, Floating Restaurant and Open Cottages

Our number one mission was to eat at Punta Isla Lake Resort. Upon entering, our hungry spirits went directly to where the staff pointed us, the floating restaurants!

Since the resort is overlooking the lake, I got a little distracted seeing the view from above, it looks really peaceful, although the waters were a little busy because of the river cruise and floating restaurant giving ripples of water and disturbing its peaceful presence, it was evident that this water part is calm and has its own beauty.

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Upon learning that a river cruise would cost us more than the floating one, we thought we were fine with the latter. Although we could only see a glimpse of the wide lake, all we had in mind was the food that we will partake in a few.

But we saw numerous rounds of river cruise coming in and out of its docking port, we had river cruise experience beforehand also in Bohol so it was a reason that we could keep ourselves within that steady floating eatery. It wasn't bad at all because they have this self-service pull floating mini-boat which the kids love to take while waiting for our orders.

Aside from the floating restaurant and the river cruise, the resort also got several open cottages where guests can prefer to eat their lunch or dinner as well as brunch if that is applicable to the visitors here.

2. Watch and Learn From the T'boli Cultural Shows

Image credits: Jean Beltran via Bitlanders Society Facebook

A special cultural show is showcased too while inside those floating restaurants and open cottages. It is, in fact, a great experience to see in flesh the cultural music instruments, the dances, music, and songs as well as their traditional dresses.

Right before we were eating, I already heard some tribal or traditional music playing randomly at several instances in some part of the resort, I didn't mind it at first thinking it might be some standard music for the T'bolis and I was not wrong at all. That was indeed their traditional music which then was presented by four local T'bolis before our food was served.

I was already entertained by the traditional costume and their patterns, the sound of the brass metal castings in their belts and their headresses.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via Bitlanders Society Facebook

I personally learned about their musical instruments such as the Kubing, a Philippine Jew's harp of bamboo, the Sloli which is a flute made of again Bamboo and there's a unique bamboo one which produces bird-like sounds.

The cultural dances presented has those moves imitating animals but some of these dances were done only on rituals. We were lucky that they had given us a glimpse of this in a normal day. What really stuck in my head was the courtship dance where a woman would show her affection for the opposite gender. Watch the video below to know more of what I am pertaining here.

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

3. Taste Tilapia Specialty Dishes

Right as the food was served, the best activity to do here was to eat and treat the hungry stomachs with some pretty Tilapia specialty dishes. It was our first Tilapia treat and so tasting them was a little bit fun most especially those dishes which are not really familiar in Cebu or Bohol.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via Bitlanders Society Facebook

What I liked was their Chicharon Tilapia, the Lagpang na Tilapia, and even their Pinaputok na Tilapia. While they have a wide range of Tilapia dishes, they got other options too like chicken, pork and beef menu.

Prices here range from 200-250 per dish which is good for around 2-3 persons.

4. Souvenir Shopping

Image credits: Jean Beltran via Bitlanders Society Facebook

A few uphill walks were necessary for us to get back to the main resort after lunch, it was time to explore the resort. It was cool that we didn't have to pay any entrance fees though.

At their lounge area, there were several spots to get a good view of Lake Sebu. Included there were several souvenir items. Their traditional dresses are part of them, as well as the brass castings which T'bolis are known for. They also have items made of beads such as necklaces, wristbands, and bracelets as well as headdresses.

5. Owong Ride and Other Water Activities

Image credits: Jean Beltran via Bitlanders Society Facebook

An interesting thing to do in the waters of Lake Sebu was their water activities like learning to ride their traditional boats named Owong which doesn't have any outrigger. It looked very challenging, almost like kayaking except that their boat paddles are only a single one.

Aside from Owong, the got single kayak rides too as well as that one where more than two can maneuver.

Unfortunately, it was already late and raining when we were at the resort, it would also take us more time if we avail of those activities. Nonetheless, if any of you would be interested, make sure to inform their front desk about it.

6. Spend a Night at Their Accommodations

Image credits: Jean Beltran via Bitlanders Society Facebook

I know we went at Punta Isla Lake Resort with a very limited amount of time because of the weather but nonetheless, it was still great to see Lake Sebu's majestic beauty.

To those who would like to really explore the resort up to its tip, Punta Isla Lake Resort offers several accommodation options. They got fan rooms as well as air-conditioned ones. Rates range from Php 950 up to Php 3000 depending on the type of room and the number of heads staying.

As we were on our way out of the resort, I heard some of the local T'boli staffs said "Bud ye semfulek! Tey bong s'lamat!", which means visit us again! Thank you!

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Thanks for reading!

About the author:
Jean Beltran-Figues is a photography enthusiast. 
A traveler who wants to promote her beloved country, the Philippines.

Video credits: Justin Bryant via YouTube

Working as a part-time for my company as well as working from home gave me the balance of life, I can still earn a living while being able to do whatever I wanted. I work only for three hours a day, so I have an ample amount of time to really watch online videos, entertain myself, enhance my writing skills, read a lot and even write more on my journal.

However, lately, I have been very busy because of my brother's arrival from the United Arab Emirates. Together with our family trip to Mindanao, I had been unable to do those personal activities plus I have somehow lost track of my daily routine, I kept on being lazy with writing and perhaps, my body was just readjusting back to the old routine. I am slowly coping up on that especially that I won't be able to travel this weekend due to the typhoon, all ships are not allowed to move out of the ports. It is a good move though although Cebu is a little far from the affected area. It is still good that they have preferred prevention.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders Society Facebook

So as for today's blog, I have thought about sharing my experience with hunting out a cafe in Tagbilaran City Bohol during one of my solo trips back home. I will soon create a separate blog listing some of the cafes that are good for those who are online workers like myself who need a place with a great internet connection while within Tagbilaran City. For now, let me share my own tiresome but a little funny experience with looking for the best cafe spot for online work.

Limited Time at Bo's Coffee

I didn't book a ticket on my way to Bohol. I knew within me that I might not be able to reach the port before seven in the morning, it was Friday and I thought there won't be many travelers at this hour. Due to traffic, I indeed missed the seven AM trip schedule, instead booked the next trip which was set to leave an hour after.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders Society Facebook

It was funny that I only missed the boat for five minutes. Anyway, it was all fine as I was able to slow down my pace, relaxed and very comfortable as I sat at the boarding area.

The entire trip was cool, I read a book by Vaneetha Rendall Risner entitled "The Scars That Have Shaped Me", a PDF file on my phone. I slept after crying a bit and without knowing, I was already in Tagbilaran City.

My mom and brother who were supposed to fetch me at the port had gone to their errands within the city and won't be able to fetch me anymore. And so I gladly went out and sought an internet cafe. Bo's Coffee was my number one option because of course, I had been there, I had tried their connection which was all fast and steady.

Image credits: travelblogonline

However, as I ordered my blended coffee and sat at my favorite spot but after an hour with an empty plastic cup (they didn't serve it in a cup), I was asked by some staff if I would like to extend my stay. I was like "what? You got some limit time?" and he nodded saying for the electricity use you can top up a few pesos!

It was a signal for me to leave. I know I didn't do any work yet and it was my first time to be told as such while in the past, I was there for more than three hours without paying additional cash. Anyway, I decided to leave.

Zero Internet Connection at Tablea de Maria Clara

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders Society Facebook

As I opened the Bo's Coffee's glass door, I also used their internet connection to find out some other interesting cafes around Tagbilaran City. Tablea de Maria Clara sounded interesting thus I checked its social media pages as well as blog reviews about it.

Being content with the reviews, I turned my Google Maps direction assistant and called out a tricycle to get me there. It took around ten minutes from my location to arrive in Tablea de Maria Clara. It was just in front of the University of Bohol but located on the upper floor of the building. Slowly but surely, I stepped on each platform reaching the glass doors.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders Society Facebook

Airconditioning was off, I was a little sweaty as it was fifteen minutes after eleven. I was already hungry too but the ambiance looked really good. There were zero customers and I loved it. I thought I can have the entire place all to myself.

I went over the front desk, looked at their menu, ordered their best sellers and a full teapot to help me digest whatever I will be munching in a few minutes. I returned to my preferred seat, already anticipating to take photos of the area, they use wooden crates for their interiors though.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders Society Facebook

As I was done with paying my bill, I asked the staff for the WIFI password and things turned different afterward. She told me their router is damaged and is still being fixed so they don't have any internet connection at that moment. There I realized why they didn't have any customers around. I politely withdraw my order because I won't be able to work there and the staff was very courteous enough to return my money as well as allow me to take a couple of photos of the cafe.

I admit I was a little disappointed that they don't have any internet connection. I wish the next time that I visit them, they'll have perfect internet access by then.

Slow WIFI at Sweet Home Cafe

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders Society Facebook

I checked my calendar, it wasn't Friday the 13th, I was just making sure these two instances aren't just because of the unlucky day. I had a data connection on my phone though so I was able to check my Google Maps again for any nearby cafe.

I found two, Fred's Book Cafe and Sweet Home Cafe. I preferred the latter because it sounded homier. I didn't bother checking out any reviews anymore. It was just seven minutes away but it was scorching hot, it was almost 12 noon and I had to walk, brave the hot sun, inside I told myself seven minutes is just a very near distance, I don't need to arrange a tricycle to bring me there.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders Society Facebook

Sweat was all over my back, it was already blotting on my shirt. The airconditioning inside Sweet Home Cafe was such a relief. I put my backpack which was already becoming heavy, it only had my laptop inside and the charger.

I, of course, asked the front staff if they got internet access prior to ordering anything. She gladly gave me their WIFI code and I then ordered their Crunchy Chicken Sesame, a huge slice of their New York Chocolate Cake and a pot of tea to compliment the cake. The sweet slice was for my brother and mother though who were not able to finish the entire slice.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders Society Facebook

As I was waiting for my meal, I realized that the WIFI connection wasn't that stable. I was really disappointed again, I was about to return back to the staff at the cashier area when I found a free WIFI network and was able to get connected!

Free and Fast Internet with Mang Inasal

Video credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders

It was surprising that I found the fast, reliable and very stable connection with Mang Inasal which was just next to Sweet Home Cafe. It was unexpected but it was all good for me to continue with my work.

Three hours after, the network was still fine, I finished my work, satisfied with it and I had to internally thank Mang Inasal for their fast free WIFI.

Image credits: Jean Beltran via bitLanders Society Facebook

It's funny that I was able to settle down with this fast food chain instead rather than the more expensive cafes. Next time I go to Tagbilaran City and work online, I will go back to Mang Inasal instead, just kidding. Surely, I will check out the rest of the cafes around to find the best spot for online freelancers who might be visiting the city.

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Join the Querlo chat below about work:

----------------------------

Thanks for reading!

About the author:
Jean Beltran-Figues is a photography enthusiast. 
A traveler who wants to promote her beloved country, the Philippines.