Tourists scattered about during the mid-day in Havana, Cuba. The temperature was not too hot as I expected it to be, the sun was able to peak through the clouds intermittently. This was their winter season and the rain trailed my entire trip. So much for getting some much needed tan coming from Canada.
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It was my first time in Havana and it was only a day trip from Veradero. I must say, I was not too impressed with the resort life here. Then again, I am in a communist country where certain things are just not a priority. I won't rant about it but just one suggestion, bring your own hot sauce. Perhaps food that aren't tampered with the way it is in North America with chemicals makes food bland?

Ok, not a food blog. Back to Havana. For those that love to explore, spend more time in Havana than the beaches. My senses were fulfilled just walking the streets of beautifully crafted buildings, atop original cobble stones, with historical events just permeating the air. Walking through buildings from the 18th century were moments of past time zones. What did the people of the past do everyday right where I'm standing?

The sounds of crowds bustling about, the foods, horse hooves clicking on the ground, the exhaust from the classic cars that are everywhere, it was interesting and fascinating. I must forewarn you of the black smoke that comes out of the car in front of you every time it accelerates. The layout of the city seemed to be mixed with wide roads that didn't seem like you were back in time yet there were also sidewalk type roads.

In one area, where many of the tourists hung out, buildings were in the middle of construction soon to be hotels. Surely it will be beautiful, I can imagine the nightlife. I did not stay over night in Havana although I wished I did. One street is known to come alive at night when the parties begin. I believe it is 23rd street. 

The soft latin music, the smell of chicken and baked cheese, the light blue and yellow interior colours...it’s all too much to simply ignore. The large bright yellow and red sign that read Happy Hour 2 pm - 7 pm is also too enticing. Located in the heart of White Beach, Boracay Island in the Philippines, Bolero restaurant exudes an inviting, casual atmosphere.
The staff being very friendly and warm-hearted, makes you feel right at home. The bar--fully stocked with every conceivable type of liquor--sits at the center of the restaurant, adorned with a bowl of fresh lemons and pineapples.

One side of the bar faces the interior of the restaurant area, while the other gazes outside onto a row of wooden bar stools as well as the walkway and beach area. Facing South China sea, Bolero welcomes the natural breeze coming in off the water. A row of swings sit in front of the exterior bar stools, adding to the playful design of the restaurant. Sitting atop the polished bamboo tables, table cloths depict bright yellow and blue circle patterns. The menu as well as the green, blue, and yellow walls give the restaurant its cheerful, fun-loving authentic Mexican ambience. The ceiling is lined with bamboo sticks that led my eyes to a string of fake red peppers hanging over the bar area. Historical portraits of Mexican figures adorn the interior, firmly establishing the cultural inspiration.

Mexican dishes on the menu include quesadillas and burritos, but Western favourites are also on offer, such as pancakes, pastas, and sandwiches, with items under 400 Php ($8.25 US). Main courses generally range between 300 - 380 Php. Try the Three Taco Platter for 350 Php, with its zesty seasonings and guacamole on the side that's to die for. The frozen margaritas are the drinks to remember here, as they are made with fresh fruit rimmed with salt and guaranteed to pucker your lips. Naturally you can't forget the shots of gold Tequila and the famous local Tanquay rum to see you off.

Sidebar:
Bolero restaurant is located in between boat station 3 and the tourist center.
The common route to get to Boracay, take a flight from Manila. There are a few airlines you can take. Most common, take Cebu Pacific or Philippines Airlines to either Kalibo or Caticlan airport. Flight is about an hour and costs on average 3000 Php (around 100 dollars US). From Kalibo airport, you take a 2 hour drive to Caticlan Jetty Port where you will then take a 20 min motorized outrigger boat ride to Boracay. From Caticlan airport, it is a 5 min drive to Caticlan Jetty Port and a 20 min boat ride.

The aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries hit my senses immediately as I enter Bakers Hill. Local bread, brownies, sweet sponge cake, hopiang (traditional filipino pastries with fillings), chocolate droplets cost between 14 PHP and 100 PHP ($0.29- $2.08 US). Pastry boxes can be beautifully wrapped for gift purposes as well. A few minutes of picking up bakery goods can easily turn out to be a couple hours of wandering the mini wonderland park that is adjacent to the property free of charge.
The major attraction on sight is the zen garden that exhibit various designs from tropical plants and stone formations. Food vendors and a restaurant called Bakers Kitchen are also on sight for visitors to enjoy. A simple trip to this bakery makes for the perfect outing for families and for local school field trips. In fact, Bakers Hill is part of the Puerto Princesa city tour and is located at Mitra’s Road, Brgy.Sta. Monica.

Past the bakery building towards the garden are statues of disney character cartoons such as Snow White, Bugs Bunny and Donald Duck. These presentations are great for picture taking and are attractive to children. Visitors then walk on stone pathways leading into the Japanese-style garden with carefully designed earth elements displaying circle patterns made of dark grey and white stones. Trimmed exotic plants align walkways, some in the shape of circles, others shaped as a winding, twisted cylinder. Pink, purple and white flowers hang from tree leaves and sprout from plants. Various types of plants sit atop dark brown clay pots, while others are held by rock boulders adding to their zen presentation. In one area of the garden, hand-picked flat rocks in shades of grey compose the ground foundation. Talking blue and yellow parrots perch on their wooden swing in a cage for visitors to view. Black and purple peacocks also strut confidently in their cages.

For entertainment, a cartoon-themed playground is within the park for children to enjoy. There are also wooden tables used for gaming. For those who want to feast on food, tables are also set up in the eating area. Throughout the garden are smooth carved benches, perfect for sitting and enjoying a conversation with someone or just sitting alone in tranquility. Towards the end of the garden is a small man-made pond made of cement with rocks embedded in it. Near the edge sits a golden statue of a Buddha cross legged on a rock with coins at his feet. Throwing coins in this pond is considered lucky.

Not too far from the pond is a bamboo circular walkway winding upwards, a perfect spot to catch a view of the distant landscape and horizon. A wooden bridge composed of small but sturdy intertwining cylinder tree trunks give an authentic feel to the garden. The small dinosaur area boast mini rolling hills completely covered with thick grass. A miniature Tyrannosaurus Rex are amongst the statues. To expand on the garden, landscapers are harvesting the ground to lay more flat stones before adding more animated statues.
Upon entering the grounds or before leaving, the owners house catches the attention of many onlookers. As part of the park’s presentation, the owner sure gives as much attention and maintenance. Four stories tall, the exterior show modern square beige finishings. Brick in light brown line the side of the house with large windows overlooking the entire park. A dark wooden ganaba sit on the front, a much larger double decker gabana in the back as well as another back porch as part of the second level. If that isn't enough of outdoor space, this house also has a rooftop! A visit to Bakers Hill is worth the trip even if its just for the brownies!

The sunlight dimmed behind the narrow canoe as the darkness upfront draws nearer. The smell of wet seaweed washed ashore from the ocean and the sounds of water dripping from amongst the cave ceiling surrounds us. The ambience fills with curiosity as our group submerge in the unknown environment of what dwells in the rocky tunnels within. The longest navigable underground river in the world runs 8.2 km, is part of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in the Philippines.
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It has also been nominated to be one of the World’s Seven Wonders. This river flows underneath a magnificent limestone mountain landscape that exits directly into the South China Sea. However, this cave system can only allow boat tours to go up to 4 km in before turning back due to low rock ceilings. According to the guide, it was in 1971 that Americans first explored this cave.

As our paddle banca with outriggers crawl further in, the only light available is from one large flashlight that the person sitting in front holds. Tour boats resemble that of narrow canoes but the side edges are close to the water’s surface level. Our guide navigates from the back of the boat as other tour boats glide past going the opposite direction. The light from digital cameras are limited making photos difficult to capture. However, limited light sources prevent large mosquitos from hovering nearby. The brownish green waters’ depth lies between 10 feet to 29 feet deep depending on low or high tide periods. In fact, the lower portions of the river is subject to tidal influences. During high tide periods, parts of the cave is actually underwater. The highest point in the entire cave is a 65 ft tall domed amphitheater above ground level which is never underwater. It is not recommended to go swimming in the area as it is too dark and potentially hazardous.
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Above us parts of the rock ceilings boast hundreds of bats, too dark and too far up to see in detail. A few fly near the top but does not cause any harm to visitors. The bats also do not react to the sound of voices. Their glowing eyes can be seen if you watch carefully. It can be a mesmerizing yet anxious and eerie moment to see creatures not common in the city-life. As far as the guides are concerned, there are no crocodiles or sharks dwelling in the cave area. If there are other life forms living here, it probably would not be visible to visitors.

Our guide proceeds to accurately describe the major formations the boat passes. “Just ahead to the right is a whitish smooth rock that resembles a woman.” The flashlight holder must be quick at following the guides’ instructions of where to point in order for the shapes to be seen. Sharp rock pillars also hang from overhead. Aligning the cave walls are unique rock formations and boulders such as stalactites, stalagmites and large chambers. The cave wall where rock meets water also exhibit marble-like material while others display a smooth lumpy texture.
Smaller tunnel pathways and black hallow recesses ahead lead deeper into the cave where visitors would have to duck should they choose to continue. It is at this point where our tour guide slows the canoe to turn around due to low ceilings, sharp twists and turns. To further proceed to the inner depths of the niches and tunnels before flowing out into the sea may require more skilled scuba divers. Although curiosity of the mystical environment beyond our turning point irk many visitors, the point of sunlight upon return bring about some relief.

Visitors can be assured lifejackets and hard hats are provided. Professional tour guides are very knowledgeable of the cave area and know exactly what and where everything is without the need for flashlights. The general registration fee to enter the park is 30 PHP. Visitors will need to obtain entry permits from the Park Information and Booking Office or Visitors Center at the Park itself. Cave entrance fees are 200 PHP for individuals ages 21-60, 100 PHP for those ages 17-21, 75 PHP for 13-16 year olds, and 50 PHP for 6-12 year olds. For those that want commercial videos, 3000 PHP is the fee. Hours of operation begin at 8:30 am with 4:30 accommodating the last tour due to tide influences.
Sidebar:
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is one of the most unspoiled natural beauty of the Philippines. It boasts a significant habitat for biodiversity conservation as it contains some of the most important forests in Asia. Considered a National Geological Monument, the global significance of the park is also inscribed in the World Heritage list.
For more details, go to
puerto-undergroundriver.com
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park Office
No. 11 National Highway, Junction 1
Brgy. San Miguel, Puerto Princesa City 5300, Palawan, Philippines
Tel: (048) 433-2409
Email:
[email protected]
How To Get There:
Bahile is 81 KM (2 hours) from Puerto Princesa. Jeepneys or aircon shuttle vans can be taken. After registration, a 15 min pumpboat ride or 1 and a half hour hike then leads you to the underground river.

The sun’s midday heat beating down on my head, I look around and observe the primitive lifestyle of my relatives. The aunts busily cooking outside overtop a fire-pit for my deceased grandfather’s prayer gathering; uncles sitting around talking, laughing, drinking; children playing amongst each other; dogs wandering around the property; pigs sleeping in their pens, roosters and chicks strut around freely on the grounds while breeding females remain in a cage to avoid contamination. It is quite overwhelming to see such a different world than what I’m accustomed to in the city.
My first reaction to arriving at my father’s village where he grew up in the Philippines was, 'How long do I have to stay here?' But as the days pass, I warmed up to the way of life here. I became increasingly surprised at my elders' state of health and longevity with a few almost reaching 100 years old. How is it that my relatives here, with their standard of living, outlive my relatives in North America?

Living conditions in Lloren Village remain primitive and primarily outdoors. As I explored the neighborhood, my immediate environment reminded me of the days when my family used to go camping. My eyes wander at the minimal house structures and design made of cement, wood, or bamboo. Generally, housing is kept very basic compared to North American housing. My relatives’ kitchen does not have appliances such as microwaves and stoves as I doubt other neighbors would. Cooking is usually done over a fire pit outside, but despite the lack of appliances, the food cooked was delicious. The bedroom in the house where my grandmother stayed is just big enough to fit a bed and dresser, with walls simply made of cement rather than drywall. I look around her room and see pictures of my grandfather and her when he was still alive. At that moment, I remember those times they babysat my brother and I back in Canada. I can't help but smile at how many generations their relationship has lasted.
I continue to look around for a washroom, also called CR, in the Philippines. This house does not have one so I walk a few steps outside to a relative's house (literally a few steps). The washrooms have no flushing toilets or shower heads, but rather buckets of cold water for use. Water pumps outside or faucets in the CR are the source for water supply. At first, it took getting used to taking a shower just with buckets. If I wanted warm water I would have to boil water and mix it with the cold water. However, on those lazy days I rough out the cold buckets of water. It's not so bad on extremely hot days. One of my observations in Lloren village are that people not only remain in contact with nature, they are in continual contact with neighbors and family. I started to understand that quality of life does not necessarily mean having everything that money can buy. Instead of complaining what I’m lacking here, I wanted to enjoy immersing myself in their culture. What better way to help keep the body and spirit healthy than living within the natural environment.

Perhaps it's the limited use of electronics that keep everyone outside. Although televisions are becoming more common in the households here, cable is not readily available. I also notice house phones are not as prevalent as the use of cellphones--all the adults seem to have cellphones. Computers and portable computer games are considered a luxury and are usually brought in by relatives abroad. This limited availability of electronics prevent my relatives and their neighbors from being exposed to forms of media and children have no choice but to better utilize their time on other social and education activities. For this reason, locals do not get exposed to harmful radioactive frequencies as city dwellers do.
Harmful chemicals such as food preservatives and pesticides are avoided here since they raise their own animals for eating. Of course, they are sold as well. My uncle takes good care of the big pigs as well as piglets. To sell a full grown pig would normally cost 20,000 Php (approx. $413 US) and piglets would sell for 2000 Php (approx. $42 US). Organic poultry is also frequently eaten in Lloren village but when I asked if they sell them, one of my relatives said they keep them for consumption. Given how they taste, I would keep them for myself too! By relying on growing your vegetation or raising animals for consumption, not only are unhealthy food choices uncommon, eating organic food keeps your overall health and energy levels high.
One night I was sitting outside with the adults and looking around in the darkness. I asked if safety is an issue here with no security around and limited lights. One of my uncles laugh and says everybody knows everybody here, if there ever was a burglar it would be a family member. Their dogs would also have a big dinner should there ever be an intruder. Despite dogs not being domesticated as compared to those in North America, I find the dogs around my families’ property are quite territorial. In terms of safety in Lloren village, crimes such as kidnapping, violence, and drug use do not happen in this small community. Crime rates are nowhere near what urban environments portray. No wonder I’m the only one with my eyebrows raised when the door is kept unlocked.
Another important factor to longevity is through the support of extended family. Unless some of my relatives have gone abroad, the segregation of families is almost unheard of in villages. My relatives here all live in close vicinity and maintain close-knit relationships. In fact, three houses of my relatives are within 10 steps of each other. Other relatives houses are within a 10 minute walk. Quarrels and animosity amongst friends, neighbors, and families seem to be non-existent because their elders settle any differences promptly before it sparks. Children especially keep close ties with siblings and cousins, and have great respect for their elders.

Teamwork is obvious in this environment. I see everyone helping with cooking, cleaning, and helping the kids with homework. In fact, they are quite eager for me to teach them English during the evenings. When the majority of chores are completed, elders sit talking with each other, sharing stories and laughing. It is a heart-warming experience to witness. This close-knit family system can help avoid feelings of being overwhelmed. They don't seem to have the common stresses that cause many health problems in urban cities. It is actually common for elders to reach an age of almost 100 in Lloren Village. My grandmother is 94 and still insists on walking around. As it came time for my parents and I to leave the village and head back to the capital city of Manila, I felt deep appreciation for this visit. Not only was I able to meet relatives for the first time but I also acknowledge the way of life that the city forgets. Although the conveniences are missed here in a primitive environment, familial roots and, most importantly, well-being are enhanced.

The modern world may not be an option for those living a primitive lifestyle such as my relatives in a third world country, but the simplicity of that lifestyle carries a secret to longevity and health. Many cultures and societies abroad like Lloren Village in the Philippines are not developed like the west. They are still accustomed to certain ways of living that many developed countries have long left behind. It is easy to forget the natural elements of this environment that are advantageous. Healthy nutrition, close family relationships, limited use of technology, maximum time outdoors all contribute to lower levels of stress, thereby increasing longevity. It is not to say it does not exist in the developed, modern day lifestyle, however, it takes on a more secondary role behind hectic work schedules. The priority for family and social gatherings decrease as well as time for healthy eating and exercise. There are efficient tools available in the modern world such as the internet and solar power that can save time and energy. However, our basic human needs for well-being are still overlooked as more monetary demands are placed upon us. With the world further developing at such a rapid rate, can we remember to put our health and well-being first and the rat race last? Has the modern world eluded our memory of where our ancestors come from and where some still live?

The magnificent view underwater exhibit marine life such as gray, green and purple coral reefs, the fast moving school of green tropical fish, and the mysterious cloudiness of water further down. The various life forms below in the seaworld seem to speak to me in their own mystical language. Even the plants dancing from the ocean floor sway with a consciousness. The silence of hearing my own heartbeat and breathing as I witness this different world makes the rough boat ride out to sea that much more worth it.
Located at Honda Bay, Brgy. Sta Lourdes, Puerto Princesa, island hopping in Palawan, Philippines is ideal for those that love snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing. Of the 7107 islands in the Philippines, Honda Bay is known to be one of the best dive spots in the country.

At the Hondo Bay Tourist Information and Assistance Center, visitors pay a fee for each island. I find locals are more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Comprising of six little islands or islets mostly untouched by human development, tourists can choose which to explore. The farther and longer it takes for the boat to get there, the higher the fee which includes the pump boat and boatmen for the entire day. Snorkeling equipment can also be rented with flippers and goggles costing 100 PHP ($2.05 US) each. There are no formal lessons on snorkeling, however it is quite easy to learn how to use the breathing apparatus on your own.
Wooden pump boats resembling canoes are equipped with lifejackets, a couple benches, and a sitting area. An average of 8 people can fit on one boat. Two local handlers usually accompany each boat as one steers from the back and the other assists in anchoring and parking. Since the entire trip lasts at least a few hours, you can bring lunch and snacks onboard.

Once out on sea, it takes around 20 minutes before the handlers park the boat by a floating little hut shelter. Pambato Coral Reef is not an island but an area where coral reefs and fish are easily seen. Another floating shelter is about 20 meters away from the boat where visitors can put on gear. For those not comfortable swimming to the shelter from the boat, visitors can sit on a floating styrofoam turtle board and get pulled by a local helper. Once the gear is properly on, visitors can swim approximately 20 meters to reach the coral reef area.
Once reaching this area, some parts are not deep; in fact, if you wanted to stand on the reefs, your head would be above the water. Below the water surface I see different shapes of coral reefs; some look like purple brains, some spiky while others look like mushroom tops. It is not recommended to touch with your hands as it may be sharp. As the life jacket keeps you afloat, you can relish on the majestic view below and the faint sounds of the underworld. It is difficult to find fishes in this area as they hide under the reefs as soon as there are any sudden movements or noises.
Our second stop is Starfish island....a secluded island known for vast amounts of starfishes. The sandbar circles a small lagoon in the center. A few live starfishes lie in the clear shallow water where it can easily be picked up. Dont worry, they do not bite nor move. Not too many people were on this island at the time. However, several visitors were snorkeling in an area where mostly dead coral reefs can be seen. Fish are more tame here and come right up to the camera, possibly thinking they will be fed.

Next top, Snake Island is a 2 km long winding beach that wraps around in an S shape. There are little shops, an eating area with hut picnic tables and a beach volleyball court for visitors. The heat, especially around lunch time, is scorching and makes it hard to be exposed in the sun for too long without shade. Despite that, more people occupy this island as compared to others. Various activities such as swimming, snorkeling, eating, vendor shopping makes this island more lively.

Luli Island, derived from the Tagalog word ‘lulubog’ means ‘sinking’ is known to be submersed underwater during high tide periods. As our boat passes the island, wooden cottages can be seen sitting on stilts for that reason. White, yellow and blue flags stick out from the sand as reference points during high tide. At this time, only few people were on the island.

On our way back to Hondo Bay from Snake Island, waves lightly splashes into the boat with winds starting to pick up and clouds rolling in. One of the best aspects of being out in the sea are the impressive landscapes of picturesque hills, shores and islets. Being an expert at snorkelling or diving is not necessary to fully experience island hopping. The boat ride and visits to virgin beach little islands makes for a memorable heartfelt experience for families as well as lone travellers.
Price List:
Cowrie and Pandan Island: 25 PHP per person ($0.51 US)
Starfish, Luli Island, Pmabato Coral Reef: 50 PHP per person ($1.02 US)
Snake Island: free
Dos Palmas: 500 PHP ($10.20 US) per person
How to get there:
25 minutes ride from Puerto Princesa proper, either go with an organized tour (cost average 1200 PHP ($24.50 US), that includes pickup, lunch, entrance fees) or go by yourself which may be more worth it if your with someone else as it gives you more flexibility in choosing the islands to visit and when to leave
For more information visit:
http://www.filipinotravel.com.ph/tours/palawan.php
http://www.palawantrips.com/
Sidebar: Only few of Palawans 1770 islands can be explored. Some accommodate overnight stay.

The modern-day supermarket may be taken for granted while appreciation for farmers remain elusive.
My father, uncle, and I stand atop the gravel road looking down at the farming village, on which my uncle has a share of the property. I wondered to myself,  'Do people really enjoy the farming lifestyle?' One of the rural areas of the Philippines in a community of Lloren, farming is the way of life for many locals.
​My father was explaining how he and his brother used to play down there as kids, and would swim in the river. Unlike those numerous occasions of shrugging off my father's stories of the Philippines, this time I was intrigued: I could see it for myself and experience his footsteps from decades ago. We started to walk down the gravel pathway, sweat trickling down my face from the afternoon sun that lacks a breeze. The breath-taking view--and being able to see the farming locals in their fields--make up for the sacrifice. Surrounding the tiny farming village down below are hills with trees spread throughout the land. A little stream cuts through the area where it is used by locals and animals. Little huts stand nearby with wire fencing protecting garden areas from animals. Water buffaloes roam freely nearby awaiting their next duty.

As we drew closer, locals look with curiosity at my father and I taking pictures. Fortunately, we are led by the head farmer my uncle knows, Tito. He is quite friendly and reassuringly comfortable showing us around. I was amazed at his positivity and spirit. For living such a simple life, Tito and his family look extremely healthy and content with their way of life. Tito explains their living is very basic, with their main source of income from planting rice either out of their own land (usually about 2 to 5 hectares), or someone else’s land.
They sell their harvest at about P 1,200 ($28 US) per 50 pound sack. This particular village does not sell meat so farm animals are not raised here.

At Lloren, locals also grow various vegetables such as eggplants, beans, peas, sweet potatoes, and ocra. Vegetables are usually for their own consumption but if they have extra, they bring it to the public market to sell and get extra cash to buy their meat, fish, and other household needs. Out of the three planting seasons, the first two are during the rainy season (May to August) which are mainly used to plant rice, and the third is used to plant tobacco or peanuts. While tobacco and peanuts are cheaper commodities, Tito firmly believes that if they vary their crops from season to season, they can maintain and prolong the fertility of the soil without using fertilizers. This is in stark contrast to the farms in the west where fertilizers are commonly used to enhance the productivity of the land. I didn't realize how complex farming is and how much appreciation farmers deserve for their work.
​The four of us walk to where soil is being prepared for further planting. To prepare the ground, Tito uses water buffaloes to flow the soil. Small portable tractors can also be used, however, unless farmers are well-off, rototellers are not a commodity here at Lloren. For the size of the land, it is not worth it to buy and use heavy equipment as we know in North America.
“Would you like to ride the carabow?” Tito asks me, gesturing towards the water buffalo.

I didn't hesitate. Tito puts a banig (rug) on the buffalo’s back as he helps me climb on. It is actually similar to getting on a horse, but without the saddle gear. The backs of water buffaloes require a bit of balancing as it is not as flat as a horse’s back. My father explains when he was younger, these water buffaloes helped him cross the streams and rivers he wasn't able to do on his own. These animals deserve as much praise as Tito and other farmers: they work hand in hand growing foods we eat on daily basis. If it wasn't for water buffaloes, farmers would have difficulty preparing soils.
For shelter, small huts--barely standing--are used as homes. My heart ached for Tito and his family: appliances such as microwaves, dishwashers, and even sinks with faucets do not exist here. Buckets of water are the main vessel used for all chores. Electronics such as televisions and computers are not available unlike some villages uphill. There are also no personal vehicles for use, rather, locals walk uphill and catch tricycle taxis or jeepneys for transportation.

The entire time we walked and chatted, I noticed distinct assigned duties within the village. Unlike the western way of living, roles between men and women remain primarily separate. One young girl is hand-washing cloths by the small riverside, another woman is rinsing some vegetables in a big pot. Off in the distance, a girl and boy can be seen picking long beans from their leaves. The men, like Tito, usually do physical work such as carrying bolo (like bamboo but softer and lighter in texture) uphill for pickup, caring for the farm animals, and assisting water buffaloes harvesting the soil. Children usually play with other children but it is very common they help with adult chores, especially the girls.
I left with great appreciation for the conveniences we have in North America; while realizing that the concrete jungle is not necessarily the better route all the time. 

Shaking hands with Puerto Princesa’s city mayor drew many customers’ heads to turn. The popular seafood restaurant is a regular place to dine for Mayor Edward S. Hagedorn who advocates the preservation of Palawan’s beautiful natural environment. In fact, Puerto Princesa is a city with a track record in environmental management, where nature is carefully reserved and modern development is kept in moderation. Badjao Seafront restaurant is located at Abueg Road, and sits right on top of water supported by cement stilts.
The entry way has a tropical and authentic design with wooden face sculptures hanging, two carved totem poles and a water fountain to welcome you in. To get to the front lobby area, visitors walk on a wooden bridge walkway surrounded by trees and atop shallow water. In the lobby area, multi-coloured yellow, blue, red curtains drape the Badjeo Seafront restaurant sign. Intricately carved wooden totem poles are also on both sides of this set of doors. On the walls are framed credentials of the restaurant such as “the only place in Puerto Princesa visited by HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York.”
When you enter the main dining area, all tables have a panoramic view of the ocean, hills and trees. It seems so surreal. The breeze naturally flows in as there are no windows but rather roll down bamboo shades. All throughout the restaurant as well as the washrooms are tropical zen displays resembling a spa clinic. Weave baskets, dark wood vases and hanging interior lamp shades are common in this restaurant. The bar boasts a glassware rack holding martini, beer and cocktail glasses. Interweaving straw and soft wood material is also part of the bar design. Just to the right, stairs lead to the second floor enclosed private room that can overlook the dining area. Private functions are usually held here. Waiters busily do their tasks wearing white loose shirts, casual black pants and sandals to represent Badjao’s authenticity.
The menu primarily consists of seafood items with appetizers averaging 140 PHP ($2.89 US). Entrees range between 135 to 200 PHP ($2.79 - 4.15 US) and drinks range between 45-60 PHP ($0.93 -1.25 US). Red and white wine by the glass is 125 PHP ($2.58 US) which goes quite well with whole grilled fish blanketed in sweet and sour sauce topped with vegetables. A side order of large tomatoes are presented as a flower to decorate the dish. Seafood items such as shrimps, lobster, squid and crabs can be cooked in different ways according to the guest’s preference. Steamed, butter garlic, fried, grilled, tempura or spicy are few of the chef’s favourites.
This Filipino-style seafood restaurant is ideal for family casual outings during the day with a more romantic ambience at night. Badjao Seafront is not in the main strip but off the beaten track so it best to expect a longer traveling time. For lunch or dinner reservations, the contact number is (048) 433-9912. Bon appetit!

Some travellers will fly to tourist-dense destinations for relaxation but what about finding solitude in remote nature?
Our jeep rumbled over the bumpy road amidst the tropical trees and plants. “Where are we heading?” I wearily asked my father, my lack of sleep catching up with me. He answers, “To Tapuakan river where your aunt, uncle, and I used to go to when we were kids.” Since I arrived here in the Philippines, everyday has been on the go with no time for rest or sleeping in, but this place was our last stop before heading back to the village of Lloren.
Tucked behind the lush green hills of LaUnion, we finally came to a stop in front of a rundown hut with a wooden sign that read, 'Tapuakan River, 5 PHP Entrance Fee'. Stone steps leading downwards are off to one side, on the other were beautiful green rice fields that gleamed from the sun’s rays. Now I was getting my energy back. An exploration that seemed to be interesting. Since no one was in the hut, we just headed down.
My father, aunt, and uncle behind me, I started the descent towards what looked like a ravine. The winding stone steps are not evenly leveled as grass and weeds grew alongside it and in the cracks. After a few minutes of hopping from stone to stone, I saw the river--or at least what was left of it. The short hike down is worthwhile and rejuvenating as each step reveals more of the river that was once rapid and deep. Who would have known this hidden place even existed amongst the deep forests? When we reached the bottom, my aunt and uncle started taking pictures of boulders twice my height. My father pulls out his cigarette and looks around. I slowly put one leg in the fresh, cool water that graciously came from the mountains. Seeming safe, I waded knee-deep into water. With the sun blazing directly overhead, the water felt perfect.
I wanted to take in all my physical senses at this moment. The sounds of lapping water around me and the trees bustling from the breeze provide a calming, tranquil effect. Natural erosion has left stone flooring that line the bottom of the stream smooth and curvy--not to mention slightly slippery. Lumps of rock formations protrude throughout the stream that can also be used for sitting or tanning. In between are pockets of water that can serve as knee-deep dipping pools. Evaporation also has left the water calmer and softer as it eases away any anxiety in therapeutic waves. Should this river completely disappear, it would have a rippling effect on many life forms that rely on it. It saddens me to think that is the likely outcome of one of Earth’s beautiful spots.
On our way back up, I see a cascade area elevated on a rock slope where water has completely dried up. What was once a waterfall now only leaves a black trail of erosion on the rock escarpment. How pretty that would have been if it had not evaporated. Bamboo tables with tropical hut overheads are propped alongside the stream on rocks. To get a more aerial view of the river, they are also atop boulder formations. These eatery setups can serve for picnic purposes and even napping that anyone can enjoy. This truly is a place where visitors can embellish tranquility.
If it wasn’t for the sun’s descent, I would have stayed longer in the still consciousness that nature provides. The spiritual force of Tapuakan river is an ideal environment for a solitary retreat where serenity and solitude can engulf your entire being. This sanctuary where earth elements come together instantly comforts and subdues any feelings of unease. It is also where I can truly appreciate Earth’s existence and hope that humanity is not too late in saving our planet’s treasures.
10 minutes from Lloren Tubao, La Union