#olongapo base restaurant

[tarasasubic]

Libot? Tara sa Subic!!

TARA SAMAHAN NIYO KAMI MAGLIBOT SA MAGAGANDANG PASYALAN SA SUBIC!

Ako si Miko Villena at pupunta kami sa Subic ng aking kaibigan na si Howell upang magkaroon ng oras para sa aming sarili at makahanap ng mapayapang destinasyon dito lamang sa Subic Bay.

 Pero una sa lahat saan nga ba matatagpuan ang Subic?

Ang Look ng Subic ay isang look sa kanlurang pampang ng pulo ng Luzon sa Pilipinas, mga 100 km hilaga-kanluran ng Look ng Maynila. Dating narito ang base ng Hukbong Dagat ng Estados Unidos, ito na ngayon ang industriyal at pangkalakalan (commercial) na lugar na mas kilala bilang Subic Bay Freeport Zone sa ilalim ng Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. Napapaligiran ang Look ng Subic ng Lungsod ng Olongapo, at ang bayan ng Subic, na parehong nasa lalawigan ng Zambales.

Tara samahan niyo kami maglakbay papunta sa Subic!

Kami ay nagkita sa Ministop Dinalupihan, sumakay kami sa aming service na van at nakaalis sa ganap na 6:00, ang biyahe naming papunta sa Subic ay isang oras lamang, nakarating kami roon sa ganap na 7:00.

Ocean Adventure

Ito ang pinaka-una naming napuntahan dahil ito ang nangunguna sa aming bucket list mayroon ditong mga amusement at iba’t ibang hayop na kayang mag perform sa harap ng mga tao kaya naman ito ay nakakamangha php 500 kada-tao ang bayad dito kaya naman sulit na sulit ito sa amin. Humigit kumulang 3 oras ang nailaan naming roon dahil sobrang daming aktibidad at sobrang saya dito kaya naman inirerekomenda ko na pumunta kayo dito.

Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/

Sinundo kami ng aming service sa ganap na 10:35 am upang makapamasyal naman sa Subic Safari

 Zoobic Safari

Nakarating kami sa Zoobic Safari sa ganap na 10:50 dahil hindi naman ito kalayuan sa Ocean Adventure at nagbayad kami ng php 350 para makapasok dito kaya naman tumuloy na kami upang makakita ng iba’t ibang mga hayop na hindi pamilyar sa aming mata. Ang umagaw sa aming pansin ni Howell ay ang Ostrich na napakahaba ng mga leeg at paa, mayroon pa dito na aktibidad ay ang pagsakay sa kanilang maliit na jeep upang makapasok sa lungga ng mga Tigre at dito ay nagkaroon kami ng pagkakataon upang magpakain ng isang buong manok sa mga Tigre at sobrang nagsaya kami dito kaya natapos kami ng 12:55.

Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/

Tara at kumain!

Seafood by The Bay

Dito sa restaurant na ito kami kumain at nakarating kami rito sa ganap na 1:20 dahil medyo malayo ito sa Zoobic Safari marami ditong mga seafoods at mayroon din sila iba’t-ibang karne at mga gulay. Gumastos naman kami rito ng humigit kumulang php 1500 kaya abot kaya ito sobrang sariwa ng mga seafoods nila. Kaya naman sa sobrang pagod ay nagutom kami at nagorder ng iba’t ibang seafoods at syempre napakasarap ng kanilang luto kaya naman ang bawat kagat ay nasulit lahat. Natapos namin ang mga pagkain sa ganap na 2:30 at handa na kami puntahan ang huli naming destinasyon.

Source: www.yelp.com

TREE TOP ADVENTURE

Bago pa man mag 3:00 ay nakarating na kami dito sa Tree Top Adventure at nakakalula lahat ng kanilang mga aktibidad. Dito naman sa pasyalan na ito ay hindi ka na gagastos sa kung ano man na entrance fees dahil libre na ito at magbabayad ka lang dito kung mayroon ka gusto subukan tulad ng:

·         CANOPY AND FUNICULAR RIDE = PHP350

·         SUPERMAN RIDE = PHP300

·         TREKKING AND SKYWALK = PHP100

·         SILVER SURFER RIDE = PHP200

·         ZIPLINE = PHP200/PERSON

Meron din sila dito mga package ng mga rides kung nais mo itong lahat masubukan kahit may takot kami sa mga matataas na lugar ay nasiyahan kami sa lahat ng mga aktibidad dito at naharap ko na din ang aking takot sa matataas na lugar.

Source: www.budgetbiyahera.com

  Nakauwi kami sa ganap na 6:00 at sobrang nagsaya kami at nakakabawas din ito ng mga problema kaya ano pa ang hinihintay niyo?

Tara na sa Subic Bay Freeport!

Hindi lamang iyan ang mga magagandang pasyalan sa subic kung hind mayroon pang-iba kaya’t umaano ka pa? Tara na at magpunta sa Subic Bay!

[melysummer]

TA Village Cafe and Restaurant This cafe and restaurant is the first Vietnamese Cuisine that is serving here in Olongapo City, Zambales. We ordered 4 foods based on their best sellers in town which are: Fried Pho with Beef, Beef Stew Noodle Soup, Mixed rice noodle with crispy fried chicken and Fresh spring rolls As for the Drinks: Vietnamese Latte, Lychee Milk Tea, Passion & Orange & Aloe Vera Jelly. The food tasted so good so as the drinks too and if you want to try Vietnamese cuisine, this is a must-go-to. Come and visit TA Village to explore those dishes that are mostly found in Vietnam. Bring your friends and family as you’ll explore the different flavors of Vietnam in TA Village.

[phgq]

Tagalog News: Alkalde sa mga taga Olongapo: Sundin ang minimum health standards

#PHinfo: Tagalog News: Alkalde sa mga taga Olongapo: Sundin ang minimum health standards

LUNGSOD NG OLONGAPO, Oktubre 15 (PIA) -- Muling pinaalalahanan ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Olongapo ang mga residente nito na parating sumunod sa itinakdang minimum health standards upang maiwasan ang pagkakaroon ng COVID-19.   Kabilang na riyan ang pag-sanitize ng kamay gamit ang sabon at tubig o alcohol-based sanitizer, pagsuot ng face mask at face shield nang maayos at pagdistansya ng di bababa sa isang metro.   Sa panayam ni Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar sa episode ng Network Briefing News ngayong Huwebes, sinabi ni Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr. na as of October 14 ay 528 sa kabuuang 720 na kumpirmadong kaso ng lungsod ay gumaling na.   Paliwanag niya na tumatalima ang lokal na pamahalaaan sa ipanatutupad na Prevent-Detect-Isolate-Treat-Reintegrate strategy ng National Task Force against COVID-19.   Sa prevent, sinabi ni Paulino na nagkaroon sila ng mga karagdagang barangay checkpoint upang matiyak na  yung mga lumalabas ng bahay ay yun lamang mga bibili ng essentials sa grocery, restaurant at botika at yung mga nagtatrabaho sa mga pinapayagang industriya.   Sa detect, sinusubukan aniya nila na marating ang standard ng lungsod ng Baguio pagdating sa contact tracing kung saan ang ratio ay 1 is to 36. Nagpapagawa na din sila ng sariling testing facility.   Sa isolate, kinonvert ng pamahalaang lungsod ang ilan sa mga pampublikong paaralan bilang isolation facility. Inilahad niya na aabot na sa 116 ang kanilang additional isolation room para sa mga kumpirmadong kaso.   Nagkaroon din sila ng tie-up sa isang hotel sa lungsod na nasa pangagasiwa ng isang pribadong paaralan. Ito ay may 30 bed capacity.   Sa treat, buong ipinagmamalaki ni Paulino ang kanilang mga doktor, nars at iba pang healthcare workers dahil natutugunan nila ang mga pangangailangan ng mga pasyente.   Tiniyak din niya na iniingatan at inaalagaan nila ang mga healthcare workers and iba pang frontliners. Kaya naman regular ang testing ng mga exposed sa posible at kumpirmadong may COVID-19.   Binibigyan din sila ng karampatang gamit tulad ng face mask, face shield at personal protective equipment.   Panghuli sa reintegrate, sinabi ni Paulino patuloy ang pagsusumikap nila na balansehin ang kalusugan ng mga mamamayan at ang ekonomiya. (CLJD-PIA 3)

***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "Tagalog News: Alkalde sa mga taga Olongapo: Sundin ang minimum health standards." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1056147 (accessed October 15, 2020 at 08:28PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "Tagalog News: Alkalde sa mga taga Olongapo: Sundin ang minimum health standards." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1056147 (archived).

[mabuhaytravel]

Clark freeport zone nigth life

Nightlife to Spice up Your Holiday at Clark and Angeles City

Tuklasin ang mga mainit na aktibidad at internasyonal na tatak sa Clark at Subic kasama ang mga bar, beach, at bargains!

Ilang mga dekada na ang nakalipas, naging sikat ang Subic para sa mga night bar  at hostess bar nito, na naging tanyag nang ang US Naval Base ay dito pa naka base  sa Pilipinas . Ngayon popular uli ito dahil sa mga de klasikong kainan and you can Dine out with family and friends.

“Want some calm moments with family and friends at night time? Come to….”

Texas Joes House of Steak

Mc Kinley St, Subic Bay Freeport Zone

                          ‘’The family that dine together stay forever’‘

Tanyag para sa masarap at ibat ibang klaseng luto ng steak at itoy dinarayo ng karamihan lalao na sa gabi para makapag relax habang kumakain kasama ang pamilya o mga barkada o mga kaibigan. Punuin ang iyong plato ngf mga malalaking serving nang ibat bang putahe ng Steak.

Walk by the beach.

‘’Ang paglalakad sa tabi ng dagat sa gabi ay mabisang pampakalma ng diwa.’’

Kung nais mo lamang na lumayo sa karamihan ng tao para makinig ng nakakarelaks na tunog ng mga alon, amoy ang simoy ng dagat, at maramdaman ang buhangin sa pagitan ng iyong mga daliri ng paa, ang isang paglalakad sa mga  beach ng Subic ay angkop sa iyo at  perpekto. Ang Subic ay may   mga pampubliko at pribadong beach resort sa loob at sa labas lamang ng Subic Freeport Zone. Ang ilan sa mga sikat ay ang Camayan Beach Resort, White Rock Beach Hotel at Waterpark, Halfmoon Bay Beach, at Driftwood Beach. Subic has an amazing view of the sunset so it is recommended to come just before then and watch in awe as the sun goes down the horizon.

Harbor Point

Rizal Hwy, Olongapo, Luzon, Philippines

Experience lifestyle malling in Harbor Point.

‘’ Night shopping? My way to release daytime stress.‘’

Sa pamimili, kainan, at libangan lahat sa isang bubong, nag-aalok ang Harbour Point ng isang kumpletong pamumuhay na karanasan sa malling para sa parehong mga lokal at turista. Matatagpuan ito sa kahabaan ng Rizal Highway sa loob ng Subic Freeport Zone. Ang pagmamay-ari at binuo ng Ayala Corporation, ang Harbour Point ang unang mall ng Ayala sa Subic, pangalawa sa Central Luzon, at ika-apat sa labas ng Metro Manila.

The mall has a number of retail outlets by local and international brands, as well as a cinema that features all the latest must-watch movies. The mall closes at 9:00 PM, but there are restaurants and coffee shops that extend operations up to 12 midnight.

Want to have some adrenaline to your body during night-time? Come to…

Mega  Dance Center

Fields Avenue, Angeles City, Luzon 2009, Philippines

‘‘ Hanging around with friends is my cup of tea.‘‘

Isa ito sa pinakamahusay na mga bagong club sa Angeles. Ang isang kahanga-hanga at dobleng malawak na hanay ng mga hagdan ay magdadala sa iyo sa  dalawang palapag ng club.  Ang club ay nagtatampok  ng mahuhusay na mga mix ng DJ at may mahusay na kapaligiran sa abot kayang  presyo. Ang nakakagulat ay ang laki ng loob at mataas na kisame na syang nagbibigay ng magandang  tunog ng musika  . Ang mga mananayaw sa entablado ay pinapanatili ang iyong enerhiya at nagpapa ikot ikot mula sa dalawang palapag ng club . May  isang high end laser at light setup. Mahusay at may magandang ambiance ang club kaya itoy dinarayo ng maraming parokyano. Halinak pasyalan ng masubukan.

Midnight Rodeo Bars

1-A Oak Street, Angeles City, Luzon 2009, Philippines

Isa sa pinakasikat na night club bar sa Angeles City  magandang palipasan ng oras ng mga magkakaibigan at makinig sa live band maganda ang lugar kaya dinarayo ng maraming custumer ito.

Ilan lamang ang mga ito sa napakaraming clubs and bars na puede mong pagkanlun gan sa gabi habang ikay nasa Clark, Pampanga.

Do you want to travel to the Philippines? Mabuhay Travel will find you the best offer to save money and time.

Book your holidays sa Mabuhay Travel at sinisiguro namin na ikaw ay aming paglilingkuran ng higit sa iyong inasahan. Tawag lang po sa 02035159034, hanapin din kami sa WhatsApp, Facebook.

Maraming salamat

Read More:- https://blog.mabuhaytravel.uk/2019/10/04/clark-freeport-zone-nigth-life/

This Article, Information & Images Source (copyright) :- https://blog.mabuhaytravel.uk/

[alettertotheuniverse-blog1]

Crystal Beach Resort, Zambales: Is it Still Worth All That Hype?

Hi. I’m back!

Everything’s been going really well lately which I think, has a lot to do with getting used to just letting a lot of shit go and making decisions based on what would bring me more peace, if you get what I mean. 

This is probably my healthiest mental and emotional state (hahaha!) – considering that some issues (old and new) are still asking for my attention at the moment, but I think I’ve learned to just let things run their own course.

So there’s not much drama and reflection going on in this article, unlike the past ones. Which I’m not complaining about, to be honest, ‘cause that’s obviously how we want life to be. :) 

Anyway, sidenote, I feel kind of bad for not getting through all the messages from the Facebook page. I created that without a solid plan or system and I didn’t expect for me to actually be talking to people outside the blog so, I’ll work through that. I’ll try to be as detailed on every article to save everyone’s time.

Plus, I still can’t construct a decent article regarding the whole of my Thailand trip, so… I’m dodging that - yet again - by telling you about my recent beach trip to Crystal Beach Resort, San Narciso, Zambales.

It’s a place I’ve been wanting to go to since last year. There were a lot of almosts but the plans never materialized. And I was okay with them not pushing through because last year, there was such hype about the place that I kept expecting for it to be overcrowded or worse, overrated.

But I was fortunately wrong, you guys! The hype is still real! *woot woot*

We went on a weekend and opted for an overnight stay. We tried to call in earlier that week to reserve a room but their whole month was fully-booked. Still, the whole place is so spacious that it doesn’t feel cramped at all.

I’m a bit disappointed that I didn’t get a glimpse of their rooms/huts though as I heard you can experience glamping here which I haven’t tried yet, but you can check out their website for photos and accommodation rates.

So here are the deets:

How to get there:

Make your way over to Victory Liner’s bus station in Cubao and get on the bus bound for Iba Zambales (via SCTEX). Our ticket was for the 11am trip but got chance passenger seats for 9:00am, so it’s nice to be early. (P280)

It may be best to tell the ticketing person that you’ll get off at San Narciso as I think the fare is more expensive if they charge you for Iba.

Get off San Sebastian Church, San Narciso, Zambales.

Ride a tricycle straight to Crystal Beach Resort. (P15/person. Up to 4 pax.)

Total: P295.00 from Cubao.

Time it took: around 4-5 hours. Easy-peasy.

Going back to MNL:

There may be an easier way I don’t know about but here’s how we did it:

Get on a trike going back to San Sebastian Church (P15/person still)

Take a bus going back to Olongapo bus station. (P70)

From there, take a bus bound for Victory Liner’s Cubao Station. (P250? **I may update this once my travel buddy replies to correct me ‘cause I can’t – fortheloveofme- remember how much it was exactly but I think it’s around P250, so there.)

Total: Around P335

Time it took: around 5-6 hour I’d say. The route taken by the bus was longer… plus, traffic.

Roundtrip fare total: Around P630.

Rates and Whatnot:

As per the resort’s site, the day tour fee costs P195.

For an overnight stay like ours, we paid P750 at the reception. This includes being allowed to pitch your own tent, buffet-style breakfast meal stub, and toiletries (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and shampoo).

They’ve ran out of tents for us to rent but no worries, because the locals around the resort (a lot of them, you don’t even have to look far) offer tent rentals for P600 a night/good for 4 pax. There were 3 of us, so we split that to P200 each.

With the tent we borrowed, we were told to just leave it at the resort after use and the owner will retrieve it himself. No need to look for him to return the tent before leaving, so that was easy.

Overall, for an overnight stay for 3 people, we paid a total of P950 each.

By the way, there’s a corkage fee of P50/bottle for alcoholic drinks.

I’m not sure if there’s a parking fee, sorry. But I don’t think so. There are loads of areas where you can park your car too. There were even cars parked at the campsite and still, the place doesn’t feel cramped.

Food:

You won’t go hungry at all as they sell food and drinks inside and outside the resort.

Dishes ranging from sandwiches to full meals cost around P50 – P400 inside the resort.

We tried out the pizza (P300) and fries (P50) while chilling by the beach and it was worth the price.

A bottle of San Mig Flavored beer and a can of San Mig Light costs P70 each. If I remember correctly, a bottle of Smirnoff costs P90.

Always watch the sunset by the beach with beer and food. Always. Or else, what are you even doing with your life?

There are carinderias outside the resort as well which are less expensive if you want rice meals and if you want to bond with the locals.

I recommend you try the chicken and pork siomai (P10/3 pieces), plus gulaman (P10), sold just outside the gate. Help ate out. Also, it’s delish.

There are sari-sari stores outside the resort, if you ever need to buy anything. You can buy also souvenirs easily.

What is there to do here?

The waves are meant for surfing. If you are looking to float around the waters calmly (this person is me), this is not the place to do it as the waves are raging. You also may want to keep a close eye on your kids if you’re bringing them, as the waves can easily swallow them whole. But no worries, there’s a lifeguard on duty and they only allow everyone to swim in safe areas or else they’ll call you out, using their megaphones, for your own safety.

Anyway, back to surfing. It costs P200 to rent out a board and learn how to surf with a one-on-one tutor. Yes, the tutor comes with the package. You can’t opt to do it alone.

There’s also a place that offers henna tattoos and massages (you have to book one at the reception area). I’m not sure how much these costs.

At night, there’s bonfire and acoustic music near the beach, so it’s the perfect ambiance to relax and reflect, and get your feels on, if you’d like.

There are also obstacle courses and playgrounds around the site, in case you get bored and want to run around. A volleyball tent also is readily available for those who want to play.

As I said, I came here to just chill and I’m not the sporty type so I’m not sure if renting a volleyball costs something. And I was so busy chillin’, I forgot to ask - sorry (but also not that sorry, ‘cause I was happy being lazy on the sand.)

What Else:

You don’t have to worry about bathrooms and shower rooms. It’s not crowded and it’s clean and there are several of them near the beach and camp sites, so wherever you are perched, there’s a nearby restroom/shower area for sure. No, you don’t have to pay to use it.

You may also charge inside the restaurant, but if you don’t want to stay there just to look after your gadgets, you may head over to reception and they’ll charge and look after it for you for P20 so that you can freely do your own thing. Don’t forget to keep the receipt, of course.

There’s WiFi, but only in the reception area. Cell reception around the beach isn’t so bad though.

Pet friendly? Yes. But I read somewhere, while doing research that pets aren’t allowed inside the rooms.

I think that’s about it!

Overall, if you want a relaxing-but-not-boring kind of getaway, the kind that we all want, Crystal Beach has that for you. They’ve got everything covered. It’s hassle-free and comfortable so that you won’t have to stress over anything. Hence, a chill, worry-free, fun-under-the-sun kind of stay.

Kudos to the great staff keeping this place awesome!

Chillin’ like a villain,

N

***

Links:

Crystal Beach Resort’s website (for rates and reservations): http://www.crystalbeach.com.ph/

Crystal Beach Resort’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/crystalbeachresort/

This blog’s Facebook page (over 8k now, huhu I cri. Thanks, ya guys!): https://www.facebook.com/alettertotheuniverse/

Personal IG: https://www.instagram.com/niksm_/

Let me know where it’s best to go next! Always looking out for suggestions. 

[lrigop]

I cannot attest whether the stomach is the best way to a man’s heart. I believe that food is not only a basic human need, it nourishes, eases the discomfort caused by hunger – and stress (that is unhealthy though) – and brings people together.

Food in the Philippines is a fusion of different flavors and influences. I have foreign friends and acquaintances who find Filipino cuisine unique in some ways and how ingenious we are in preparing meals and snacks. We use vinegar in cooking, which is not common in other countries. We eat cashew leaves, bamboo shoots, balut, among others. Nevertheless, similar to other cultures in the world, we have food meant only to be eaten in certain occasions, we prepare food based on tradition and belief, and we have techniques that are passed on from one generation to the next.

Food is good. I love eating, and food is best enjoyed free of charge. I rarely eat outside and when I do, it is more likely because it is free, cheap or it really is that good, or when I am really, really hungry – I am used to my mother’s cooking and somehow, the taste of home food is a standard measure. I dine out with friends and family. I eat street food, so I am not that fastidious in what I eat; unless, of course, if you will let me eat something icky or what they call exotic. I am not a fan.

I am sharing some pictures of the food I have eaten so far, from Zambales and beyond, where I ate (or eat them) and some recommendations. I am not a critic, and my taste buds are not [yet] at par with anyone who has professional discriminating taste.

Feast your eyes. These photos were taken using my Asus Zenfone Max.

Ben there, ate that. Eating at Ben’s Kitchen (Harbor Point, SBMA) is almost close to the feel of eating at a Yellow Cab. The restaurant offers a variety of pizzas, pastas, coffee and rice meals (not that Yellow Cab at all). Their nacho is really good, paired with their coffee selection.

Say cheese. The meaty and cheesy nachos at Ben’s Kitchen are tempting starters to a hearty two-thumbs-up meal.

Pasta la vista, baby. Ben’s Kitchen offers a variety of pasta entrees.

Pizzarap. Need I say more?

Bulalo that sizzles. Yeah, you read it right. Bulalo World has sizzling bulalo, a fatty (you read that right again), spiced stew of beef with marrow, corn and bok choi . Yum.

Tukso, layuan mo ako (Temptation, go away). The sizzling bulalo up close.

Sweetness overload. This cooler is a very good recommendation this summer. Caleigh’s (Iba and Masinloc) is a place for Hello Kitty fans and a haven for those looking for sweet food and snacks. This one in this photo is the Chocolate Overload, which is worth every cent.

Chocolate is love. Cream, pretzels, choco sticks and cream plus a chocolaty shake.

Hello, Food. This is a breakfast fit for a king. Start the day with this breakfast from Crimson Hotel Manila (Mandaluyong). The hotel offers sumptuous feast of Eastern and Western flavors. Here, you will see mami (noodles in beef broth, mixed with sliced carrots and cabbage, eggs and beef), slices of ham and salad, fruits and sandwiches. The variety of food that you can taste and the rich aroma plus the really warm ambience and hospitable staff makes the stay and dining experience worth the price.

Burp. One serving of an Inihaw Express (look for one at an SM food court) combo meal – combined food of two ulams (yeah, the ‘s’ is necessary) or more plus rice – means a full tummy. Here I have meat (pancit miki (I think)) + meat (nilagang baka) + grilled squid + rice + puto (a rice cake). The combination is a feast of Pinoy flavors in one serving.

Stop, in the name of chow. Riders can now have a short stop at Sto. Nino, Cabangan to dine. LC’s Stop and Chow is a restaurant for hungry travelers. Here, I have pancit (a typical Filipino food of sautéed noodles, vegetables and meat), lumpia (fried Chinese rolls), and halo-halo (a sweet and creamy summer cooler).

Baby, it’s NOT cold outside. It really isn’t. The summer heat is already here and what better way to ease the discomfort but to enjoy these cool summer favorites (Halo-halo and Crema de Leche) at Mang Inasal.

PM mo… PM ko… PM is the code used in the meals served at Mang Inasal. Chicken Inasal (grilled chicken) is a juicy fare and its goodness should be enjoyed in a dip of mixture of soy sauce, calamansi and chilies. Remember to wash your hands and dig in.

Kuya, pengeng sabaw (Kuya, soup please). Not your typical “sabaw” (broth), Mang Inasal’s sinigang is not your average free soup. The sour soup (sinigang) has that flavorful tamarind taste that goes well with the inasal (grilled chicken). If you plan to eat at Mang Inasal (Iba Town Center, Subic and many in Olongapo), do not just ask for extra rice, ask for sabaw.

Ready? Check. Placemat? Check. Utensils? Check… while waiting for the tasty chicken at Max’s Restaurant (Olongapo City). Their fried chicken is a killer (in my opinion) and their baked goodies are really delectable.

Yum, yum, yum, yum. Let’s eat.

Extra rice. You probably know what these are for.

Street food up a notch. These aren’t your typical street food; these are PotDog (Iba Town Center and other malls) treats that will surely make you define street food to a whole new level. They also have rice, so if you are that hungry (I mean that), you can opt for rice.

Saucy not sosy. PotDog is not sosy (sosyal in Tagalog, which can mean expensive). You can share it with your friends to cut the cost and the food is really worth the money. By the way, their sauce is also good: just the right blend of sweet, sour and spicy.

Eat your veggies. Beef broccoli is one of the favorites at Regz Noodle House. However, if you are more into the typical Filipino fare, you will not be disappointed.

Sinful sisig. The crispy and sizzling (and fat-rich) at Regz Noodle House (Iba, Zambales) is typically a pulutan (dish served with alcoholic drinks) and not a side dish. That is not the only food you have to try there though. They have lomi that is not only cheap – that’s right – but is also awesomely delectable.

Daing to eat a hearty Pinoy almusal. This is a typical Pinoy breakfast less the kamatis (tomato) – daing na bangus (dried milkfish; garlic rice; sunny side up; and atsara (pickled papaya). This was the breakfast that I had at Robbinsdale Hotel (Manila) for two days. One may opt for sausage though. The food is served with vinegar with spices (but I really prefer kamatis and bagoong) and coffee.

Tea time. If you prefer, you may opt for tea instead of coffee.

Spice up your life. Pasta with a zest of chili and meaty and flavorful sauce may be all the comfort food you need. This spaghetti from Roberto’s (Iba) could be the one for you. Best served with steak and chicken, this really is an appetizing treat to light you up.

What do you call this? The mouthwatering spaghetti from Roberto’s up close.

Oishi. We feasted on the fish and fries while waiting for our steak.

Show me siomai. Best served hot, siomai (a steamed dumpling with meat or fish filling), is an instant snack to ease one’s hunger for something spicy, salty and with citrusy, sour taste. Siomai House (Iba Town Center) is one of the options. If you are not picky, you can go for the ones sold at rolling stores, which are not only cheap but are also delish.

Summer’s in; bring out the ice cream. TCT Emily’s (Cabangan, Zambales) sell ice creams and other summer coolers but that is not the only ones you should order. The eatery offers other Pinoy favorites, including pinapaitan, dinuguan, puto, pansit (which, I can say, is really savory) and maja blanca.

A little Japanese-y. The shrimp teriyaki with calamares (squid) I ate at a mall in Manila.

Sandwiched. A tuna sandwich and cinnamon roll from Via Mare (Manila) is a sure winner. The smooth, rich blend of the tuna spread goes well with the roll.

Which should I eat first? These sweets from Via Mare are irresistibly good.

Random Photos 2017 – Food from Zambales and Beyond I cannot attest whether the stomach is the best way to a man’s heart. I believe that food is not only a basic human need, it nourishes, eases the discomfort caused by hunger – and stress (that is unhealthy though) – and brings people together.

[touristguidebuzz]

5 Things to do and see in Zambales, Philippines

Out of Town Blog 5 Things to do and see in Zambales, Philippines

Five things to do and see in Zambales, Philippines

Zambales is a Philippine province known for, well, lots of things! It’s blessed with brilliant beaches, parks, hiking trails, mountain ranges, seafood restaurants, seaside hotels… and the list goes on. Its short three to four-hour travel time from Manila further makes Zambales a favorite tourist destination.

Surfing in Liwliwa, San Felipe Zambales photo by hectorhannibal via Flickr

There’s so much to do and see here in Zambales that one might be at a loss with making an itinerary for a vacation in this province.  But worry no more, for I’ve created a list of 5 simple things to do and see in Zambales, that will pretty much give you a glimpse of the province’s real beauty.

1. Plunge underwater to see shipwrecks, or get on a yacht

Zambales, being a province directly facing the sea, is blessed with plentiful dive spots. Subic Bay, for one, is one of the most known diving spots in the province for its picturesque views of the open sea and the most unique diving sites.

Diving in Subic Bay photo by Boardwalkdivecentre.com

Subic is a first class municipality with an active military history during the American Period in the country. It was a functional military base even after the end of the Second World War. The accumulation of shipwrecks in Subic Bay have now turned into hot diving spots, and, a favorite hangout place for various schools of fish! There are plenty of diving resorts along Subic Bay. Arizona Dive Shop in Olongapo City is one of the most well-known. SCUBA Tech Philippines in the same city also offers diving lessons for beginners.

Dolphins in Subic Bay photo by Edward Musiak

Subic Bay is also known for hosting national regattas. Subic Sailing, the “home” of the Saturday Afternoon Gentlemen Sailors (SAGS), holds races annually and also hosts sailing lessons as well. Watch others set sail, or learn to do it on your own.

Also Read: Spoiler Alert to Subic Bay’s Ocean Adventure

2. Beach hop and hike a trail… at the same time!

Having the perfect diving spots isn’t the only thing that Zambales is proud of. Having beautiful seas also mean having beautiful beaches. Potipot Island and Anawangin Cove is just some of the most visited beaches in Zambales. The white-sand Potipot Island and its peaceful atmosphere of open skies and driftwood make it a famous island getaway. Meanwhile, Anawangin Cove’s hills and cream-sand beaches are perfect for relaxation. Generally, people visit Zambales’s beaches because most of them allow beachside camping, and some, cooking as well.

Potipot Island (photo by Potipot Island FB Page)

If that’s not enough, you’ll be surprised to know that some of Zambales’ beaches aren’t just seaside, tanning, swimming, paradises. Some beaches, like Capones Island, has a rocky trail that is visited more often than its small pocket of cream-sand beach. This is because at the end of the trail, at the highest peak of the small island, is an abandoned Spanish Lighthouse that looks like it’s taken from a vintage postcard. If you don’t fancy taking pictures of antique buildings, then you’ll definitely appreciate the view of the open skies and deep blue waters.

Also Read: 7 Fantastic Beaches in San Antonio Zambales (with Tips and Directions!)

3. Hike to Mt. Pinatubo, and see nature’s wrath and love

Considered as one of the most destructive natural calamities in Philippine history, the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991 has took kilometers of houses, farmlands, and even lives. Today, Mt. Pinatubo in Botolan, Zambales, has turned into a hiking destination.

Mount Pinatubo Crater

There are plenty of tour packages being offered, but you may also organize your own tour. The roads are suitable for heavy-duty four-wheeled trekking vehicles, so hiking time can be reduced. The trail that needs to be trekked on foot is just half an hour’s hike at most.

Mount Pinatubo Adventure

The aftermath of the 1991 eruption is still visible in some parts of the trail, such as the gloomy, grey-colored lahar deposits that you’ll most likely encounter in your trek. However, above the trail is the Crater Lake, an oddly beautiful lake that was formed after the volcano’s eruption. The Crater Lake, sometimes called Mt. Pinatubo Lake, stands proudly in the center of the grey environment, an oasis in the grey dessert. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the lake at the end of your tiring trek, and witnessing nature’s ability not only to destroy, but also to create.

(Tip: For beach or island hopping adventures, hiking, and seaside relaxing, make sure to visit Zambales during the dry season, which generally occurs from October to June. Avoid the wet season as hiking may get difficult or impossible.)

4. Get away from the crowds, and closer to nature

If you plan to have a quieter vacation in Zambales, there are some tranquil destinations that you can go to.

Anghalo Falls in San Felipe is a less visited place, and is the ultimate, pot of gold for trekkers. The trail to Anghalo Falls starts out with mostly flat grassland before turning rockier and steeper. Nevertheless, the 15 to 20-minute trek to this wonderful water world shouldn’t be a hindrance for anyone who wants to chill out in Anghalo Falls’ cool water.

If you plan to be more hands on with the wild, Wildlife In Need (WIN) in Subic Bay can be another destination. WIN is a California-based non-profit organization that expanded in the Philippines. The staff would be more than happy to accommodate guests who want to see rescued monkeys or birds, or learn a thing or two about Philippine biodiversity.

Also Read: When the summit and the sea kissed – Mt. Bira-bira and Nagsasa Cove

5. Buy a kilo of mangoes after partying

Did you know that Zambales’s mangoes were once listed by the Guinness Book of World Records as one of the sweetest mangoes in the world in 1995? And, in 2013, the country’s Department of Agriculture declared Zambales’s mangoes as the sweetest of its kind in the country?

Zambales Mango – Worlds Sweetest Mango

Mangoes are one of Zambales’s primary produce. That is why in 1999, the locals decided to spearhead the Dinamulag Festival, or the Zambales Mango Festival, to celebrate the province’s yellowest and sweetest produce. The festival is usually held during the first week of April. The schedule varies.

There are plenty of things to do in the Zambales Mango Festival. There are plenty of food stalls, colorful dancers, souvenir shops, and, well, mangoes. A kilo of sweet mangoes can be bought for less than Php 100 (approximately 2 US dollars).

Also Read:

A Heavenly Weekend at Crystal Beach Resort

5 Out of Manila Road Trip Destinations

Travel Guide: Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos Pangasinan

5 Things to do and see in Zambales, Philippines Melo Villareal