A SWEET ESCAPE: CARAMOAN PENINSULA

Caramoan, Camarines Sur (Dec. 2009)

How we get there: We took an Isarog Bus boarding to Naga City at Araneta Center Terminal. Reserving a seat 2-3 days before the trip is a must due to the number of travelers going to Bicol during December and other peak seasons.

The travel time from Manila-Naga is almost 8 hours. We arrived at around 5AM there and immediately ride an air-conditioned vans bound to Sabang Port. It took us 2 hours to arrive at  Pier where we need to ride a motorized banca bound to Guijalo Port. Another 2 hours of travel before we reach the port. Be sure to bring lots of water and food! :)


There's a tricycle waiting for us.

Where We Stayed: We stayed at Rex Tourist Inn, actually I made an early reservation with them. It's not a 5-star accommodation but the place is clean and affordable enough for backpackers like us. We paid 500 pesos per night  for an air-conditioned room big enough for the two of us( not bad!). They have a very friendly and accommodating staffs. Good thing about The Inn is that it's near to everything because it's located at the Centro where you can buy everything  you need on your whole stay. I do recommend this place for tourist who wants to explore the beauty of Caramoan!




The Islands Of Caramoan:

Matukad Island

Matukad Island is one of the beautiful islands found in Caramoan. It is surrounded by glassy waters and limestone rock formations. This Island is unspoiled by commercialism that make a spectacular scenery. It has milky fine white sands and sea creatures are abundant in this area. A hidden lake is concealed by a tropical forest in this island that everyone can explore.

Lahos Island

Lahos Island looks like a flat white sheet of blanket from afar. The name “Lahos” was taken from the word “Laho” that means “vanish” because this island  disappears during high tide. It’s sand is not as fine as the other beaches but what makes Lahos appealing is the two identical rock formation on both sides.

Sabitang Laya

Sabitang Laya  is considered to be one of  Survivor Bulgaria’s favorite location  in filming their production. This island has a very long white beach with awesome rock formation. There’s a small cove in it.

POTIPOT ISLAND GETAWAY EXPERIENCE

Potipot Island, Candelaria Zambales ( Nov. 2009)

How we get there: We took a Victory Liner Bus bound to Sta. Cruz, Zambales at Caloocan terminal. We asked the conductor to drop us at Dawal Beach Resort in Brgy. Uacon, Candelaria. It’s easy and accessible if you commute or drive a private vehicle. During that time, we spent about 900 each head for the fare back and forth.

Where we stayed:  Dawal Beach Resort was our first choice since it's the only resort there that has a swimming pool and restaurant during that time. At the reception area, we were told that a boatride to Potipot will cost us Php 400 roundtrip. We decided to get a Double Poolside Room. We took our lunch first before we go on to Potipot Island. By the way, the staffs of the resort are very accommodating until the time we left.

On The Island:  As we approached to Potipot Island by a boat, gentle breeze and warm calm water welcomed us!  The peaceful tropical island has an abundant range of mango, coconut,  kamachile and talisay trees. Coral shells, starfishes and the most amazing sunsets can also be found in the Island of Potipot.

The Island is really small. You can tour the entire island for about 20 minutes where every inch of the coast is covered by the off white cream-sand beach. They have some cottages, kubos and tables available for minimal rate.

Visitors bring their own food, drinking water, towels and other beach item because there is no establishment on Potipot. This natural island makes an ideal camping and picnic spot for those who want to experience a peaceful and enjoyable vacation.

It's a great place to be in touch with the nature and with yourself as well! It's the perfect place to enjoy with your loved ones! :)

BUDGET AND CONTACTS (updated September 2012):

Victory Liner Bus 
Caloocan Terminal 
Tel. 361-1506/ 361-4665
Schedules going to Sta. Cruz