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Pura Vida: A Taste of Costa Rica and Reggae Culture in Manila

Transport yourself to a place where it feels like summer forever and where living the good life is the only rule to live by. Welcome to Pura Vida Manila, a Costa Rican Reggae lounge that is the newest addition to the concept cafes and restaurants in Poblacion, Makati.

The very moment you open Pura Vida’s door, it feels like you’ve just left the city and instantly gone to the beach. The old house in this once quiet neighborhood, much of it retained and just slightly refurbished, feels just right the perfect home for what Pura Vida stands for. The wooden stairs and walls are splashed with the red, green, and yellow paint and plastered with everything Bob Marley; big wooden beach chairs in the balcony easily feel like lazy afternoons on the beach; and rope swings in the bar with a boat-shaped shelf make this lounge a sweet escape from city life.

Everything inside the lounge spells c-h-i-l-l. After all, Pura Vida means “Pure Life” and is a popular expression in Costa Rica already engrained in their day-to-day life. They greet each other “Pura Vida” and ask someone he or she is with “Pura Vida?” to which the other answers with “Pura Vida!” “It is an expression we use for people, places, things, feelings we like or consider good, or whenever we want to wish someone well,” shares Renato Robles, founder and owner of Pura Vida who hails from Costa Rica himself.

If reggae music is the soul of Pura Vida, Costa Rican food is at the heart of this lounge. The dishes are all inspired by Renato’s mom’s cooking. So that’s Costa Rican staples and favorites straight from their dinner tables making their way to Manileño’s tummies. Costa Rican food is a good balance of fullness and freshness, staple ingredients include rice and beans, plantains, meat, avocado, and fresh herbs.

Patacones is a great start, traditional Costa Rican snack of deep-fried plaintains with three appetizing sides of refried beans, cilantro sauce, and guacamole.

Pura Vida’s bestseller is the Chifrijo and it could definitely be a Filipino palate favorite: a bowl of rice, beans, chicharon-style pork, avocado, and tortilla chips all topped with “pico de gallo”, tomato salad with lime juice.

Loading up for a night of drinking? Casados is perfect for you. It is a Costa Rican main served with a plateful of rice, beans, plantains, picadillo, white cheese and any of the following options: Beef steak, Chicken in white cheese sauce, Chicken Fajitas, Beef Fajitas, Fajitas Mixas (beef & chicken), or Carne and Salsa.

Ready for the next part? It’s time to sip into the good life with Pura Vida’s refreshing cocktails! Specially crafted by Lucas Floyd, bartender who Renato flew all the way from Costa Rica, these signature drinks will definitely take you to a dreamy beach holiday. Prices can be a bit steep but you get your money’s worth — all cocktails are made with premium alcohol bases. Get a spicy start with Healthy Rasta, fresh watermelon and lime juice, gin, tonic water with fresh peppermint, basil, and rosemary.

Sip into sunny goodness with Summer Melted, rum-based drink with fresh passion fruit juice, ginger, soda water, with lemon grass syrup and lime juice.

Sweeten up your night with Guaro Sour, vodka with fresh lime juice, grenadine, and soda water. For a true tropical getaway, get Natural Mystic, a refreshing blend of vodka, fresh pineapple juice with ginger syrup, basil syrup, and soda water.

Imagine sitting on one of those wooden beach chairs in the balcony with a fresh cocktail in hand and Sister Nancy’s Bam Bam is playing in the background after a hard day at work. What a sweet interlude, right? And the feeling in Pura Vida is just unlike any other: it is relaxed yet fun, has a diverse crowd but with a sense of community, and is inspired by an unfamiliar culture yet still feels very much like home.

Best Backpacks for Different Trips and Travellers

Are you all booked and excited for your first trip abroad? Or are you a seasoned adventurer leveling up your travel gear? Yes, we read your mind. What is the perfect backpack or bag for your gap year tour around the world? Or the best buddy a digital nomad should have? We have rounded up the best backpacks and bags as suggested by travel gear experts, long-term travelers, and weekend warriors just for you!

Osprey Farpoint 55

Ideal for: Long weekends and week-long trips

The Osprey Farpoint 55 looks so sleek yet can surprisingly load up to 50 pounds worth of things! The best part of this bag is that it is 2-in-1: it has a 15L daypack and a 40L main backpack which can be zipped up as one bag or used separately and can be done very quickly. It also has a front-loading feature which means you don’t have to dig deep into your things (when using a top-loading bag). Just lay your bag down flat, zip it open, and have full access to your things! The dual front compression straps also keep all of your gears stable especially if you’re on a crazy adventure.

 

Deuter Traveller 60+10 SL Rucksack

Ideal for: Outdoor adventures and multi-day hiking

If you’re off to roughing it on a trekking adventure, then this bag is perfect for you. Its winning feature is that it can take heavy loads easily and comfortably for you. It is designed smartly with internal luggage stabilisers, compression straps, and an anatomically shaped hip belt to make the heavy load bearable. Zipped pockets inside provide maximum organization. It also has a separate bottom compartment and a detachable daypack to round up the versatility of this rucksack.

 

Gelert Shadow Rucksack 85+10

Ideal for: Long-term travel

“I needed a big one for my long-term travel across and relocation in Southeast Asia and this one has really good reviews. I’ve been using it for 4 years now and it is still in good quality despite the harsh conditions and intense traveling I have done in such time. One specific feature I really like about it is its adjustable hood which gives extra storage when I need to stuff in more things for my longer trips yet the bag remains in good shape. Lastly, it’s under lifetime warranty!” – Winney, Germany

 

Tom Bihn Brain Bag

Ideal for: Digital nomads, travelers with a lot of gadgets

“I am a software developer often traveling the US and the Philippines and many trips in between. This bag’s design is definitely perfect to safely store my gadgets even on my outdoor adventures. They have a laptop sleeve that you can purchase which protects your laptop in case you drop it. It is very mobile — it’s not that big but I still have lots of room for my clothes. I have been using it for 10 years now so I can really say it is very sturdy and durable. It has great compartments and pockets for other accessories I need.” – Joshua Primero, U.S.A.

 

Cabin Zero 44L

Ideal for: Short to mid-long travel, no check-in

“As its name suggests, what sets this backpack apart is that it is mainly designed to meet the carry on size requirements of any airline or airport. This means, you don’t have to worry about checking-in your bags or surprise excess baggage fees. The Military model looks very durable and tough but the bag is surprisingly lightweight!  It is really perfect for a 3- to 6-month travel and for someone who wants to be always on the go.” – Trisha Velarmino, Philippines/Israel

 

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack

Ideal for: Day trips, trips to the grocery or laundry

Weighing only 2.4 ounces and can be compressed to the size of a baseball, this featherlight day pack is a weekend warrior’s dream buddy. It can fit any pocket but once opened, it has about 20 liters of space inside — more than enough area for supplies to last a day of wandering around. This water-resistant pack can function as a stuff bag for a day hike, a pillow, a dirty laundry bag, or even a bag for carrying your groceries.

Ready to go?

Beach Escape Near Manila: Crystal Beach, Zambales

There is no better way to escape the city heat than to head to the beach. After all, it’s better to bake yourself under the sun by the sound of the waves than with the honks of cars and jeepneys. So if you are itching to hit the ocean without having to go too far from Manila, Crystal Beach in Zambales is one of the nearest and sweetest beach escapes you can have!

Tucked in the town of San Narciso, Zambales just about 4 hours away from Manila, Crystal Beach has become a favorite weekend getaway place for people living in the metro. And it’s not surprising why. The beach property is so expansive with many accommodation options to choose from yet it does not feel crowded and cramped. There is definitely a lot of breathing space a tired city soul is just looking for. Interestingly, instead of palm trees standing tall, pine trees dot the area giving a breezy, calming feel.

Crystal Beach features several bungalows, huts, stilt cottages perfect for group of friends and even families. But if your squad likes to rough it and be a little adventurous, they also have several campsites near the beach where you can pitch a tent and sleep under the stars. Although frequented by a lot of guests especially during the weekend, the entire property is clean and well-maintained, definitely a plus when all you want to do is get away from the clutter and relax all day.

The beach is wide and clean that comes in a mixture of sand and volcanic ash. The property has also amped up the shore with stylish huts and Instagrammable fixtures without being tacky and still maintaining the rustic, laidback vibe of the entire place. There is no shortage of wash stations and shower areas.

There are restaurants inside the property selling refreshing shakes and delectable meals. They even have a common grilling area if you want to cook your own food!

Crystal Beach is also known as a good surfing spot especially for beginners. For only P400 per hour, you can already rent out a surf board and it comes with a rash guard and a Quicksilver Surf School instructor. The waters in Crystal Beach have a rip current but what is laudable about the management is they made sure to place many warning signs, flags to indicate the swimming area, and hardworking lifeguards on the lookout every second you are there.

If surfing does not catch your fancy, then you have come to the right place, too. Crystal Beach is pretty much designed for chill mornings and lazy afternoons. And that’s the beauty of the place: it strikes just the right balance between serenity and activity and comfort and adventure.

If you’re looking for white-sand, palm-fringed beaches you see in Philippine postcards then this is not the place for you. But a sparkling gray shoreline dotted with pine trees and blessed with swells for surfing does not sound too bad at all either. Now you know where to go when you want to escape the city for awhile!

Tips:

  • Check their website crystalbeach.com.ph for a full list of all their accommodation types, amenities, and facilities
  • They charge a corkage fee drinks to be brought inside
  • There are many available parking slots in case you want to bring a car

How to get there (commute):

  1. Take a Victory Liner bus bound for Iba or Sta. Cruz, Zambales. Their stations are in Cubao, Pasay, Caloocan, and Sampaloc. The ride takes about 3-4 hours.
  2. Tell the driver to drop you off at San Narciso. Landmark is the San Sebastian Catholic Church.
  3. Ride a tricycle and tell the driver to take you to Crystal Beach Resort. Trip takes about 10 minutes.

Be a Responsible Traveler with these Eco-friendly Travel Essentials and Tips

Wanderlust: a fascination to see breathtaking landscapes and experience the world’s awesome beauty with fresh eyes. But if we open our eyes wider and take a closer look at our world right now, it is in great danger. Mostly because of our actions. As you embark on your journey of a lifetime, take these earth-friendly products and reminders with you and be a responsible traveler: 

Save the sand: beach-friendly blanket

Image source: www.lagu.com.au

Did you know, on an average, we take away almost three handfuls of sand every time? We rinse them, they go down the drain, and they’re never gonna find their way back to our gorgeous shores. Thanks to Lagu, the world’s first beach-friendly mat that uses a unique linen blend that repels sand, you can now enjoy the beach without taking away sand with you.

For the sun-worshippers: ocean-friendly sunscreen and organic tanning oil 

Image source: www.humanheartnature.com

Save your skin from damage while saving the beautiful but fragile coral reefs, too! Certain ingredients from commercial sunscreens like parabens, benzophenone, oxybenzone, and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor have been confirmed to cause coral bleaching. Opt to use reef-friendly sunscreens like Human Nature SafeProtect SPF30 Sunscreen which is made will an all-natural formulation.

While you’re at it, use organic products in the beach. Stuff by Serena has a coconut-based, coffee-infused tanning oil that is 100% natural and biodegradable and locally produced.

Reusable everything: Bamboo/Metal Straws, Shopping Bags, and Water Bottles

Image source: Bryan Madera

We might not notice it but the little things we buy and use while on the road can greatly affect the environment and the community when combined. You’ve seen that hurtful video of a plastic straw plucked out of a turtle’s blooded nostril. And honestly, your rum-coke will still taste the same. Ditch the plastic straw entirely or carry with you a reusable metal or bamboo straw (check out Yugto Eco Solutions). A lightweight eco-bag won’t exceed your baggage limit — make sure to have one in your backpack and use it when you buy food items, shop for souvenirs, or place your clothes for laundry.

Image source: www.lightingleica.com

Most hostels, hotels, and restaurants offer free, clean water. Skip the plastic bottles and carry a reusable water bottle and just refill every time. Saves you money, saves the environment!

Burn calories, not fossil fuels

Walk to the food market nearby, bike through the rice fields, and climb your way to the temples. As much as you can, use fuel transportation sparingly and move your body! If you can opt to use ferry instead of a plane to go to your next destination, that would be a better choice, too!

Support those who support the environment

A lot of hotels and establishments have started to go green: they use natural light and energy, recycle waste, and treat and reuse water. Stay with them, support their in-house or community-based initiatives, and recommend to friends!

Leave no trash behind

Image source: Bryan Madera

Don’t flick your cigarette butt on the beach, pick up bag of chips, beer cans, and whatever plastic trash you see and dispose them properly. These are really, really simple ways to help but could definitely go a long way. As the saying goes, “take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints.” Happy responsible traveling!

Amazing music, bright lights, and tequila shots: Z Street’s Cinco De Mayo Beach Party

The heartbeat of Makati that is Poblacion just became brighter and more colorful last May 5, 2017 as Z Hostel gathered its neighbors for Cinco De Mayo Beach Party in the now hotspot Z Street!

From vibrant banderitas and street lights to amazing performances by local and international acts, the party quickly turned first Friday into a night of music, food, and revelry. Travelers and locals alike were treated to pumping beats and soulful tunes by The Hernandez Bros and Mia Fernandez while basking in the city skyline up in the Z Roof Deck. The Z team and staff definitely came in style — beach hats, garlands, and floral shirts.

The building that houses the concept restaurants Wild Poppy, Alamat, Smokeyard, and Bucky’s were overflowing with guests enjoying great food, popping booze, and amazing music by Saxybeast.

Just right across Z Hostel, a building garage was opened and became Merkanto St. for a night where food stalls kept everyone’s tummies happy for a long night of celebration.

And a few steps away, Z Hostel staff and friends feasted over crispy and juicy lechon at the beautifully nostalgic Ruins.

At the other side of Z is Costa Rican reggae lounge Pura Vida where everything spelled B-E-A-C-H.

Beers were popping left and right. The place was jampacked and very much alive, especially when Reggae Mistress and Takashi started playing reggae favorites and dancehall classics.

It was indeed a long but fun night filled with good food, great friends, and amazing music. If Cinco De Mayo was telling of the many more amazing events at Z Street, then we’re more than excited. Bring in the tequila mi amigos!

Exploring Mindanao: What to do in Cagayan de Oro and Camiguin Island?

Guest blog by: Hanna Sobczuk

Cagayan de Oro (CDO) is a city located on the north central coast of Mindanao, the second largest island of the Philippines. When I said I’m going to Mindanao all my Filipino friends where worried about my safety. But when I mentioned that I’m going to CDO they breathed a sigh of relief as Cagayan de Oro is a safe place to visit.

‘Cagayan de Oro’ literally means River of Gold in Spanish. The name during Spanish period was only Cagayan or Cagayan de Misamis to tell the difference from other cities or towns called ‘Cagayan’ in the Philippines. ‘De Oro’ was added in 20th century because it was known for gold deposits. Today however it relates to golden friendship and lovely people who live in Cagayan and makes it one of the nicest places in Mindanao.

Mindanao is the best place for real adventurers, those professional as well as beginners, because of the number of activities to do in the island. But if you don’t have enough time, you can focus only on CDO area and still have lots of fun!

So, what you can do around Cagayan de Oro?

  1. Eat, eat, eat! Sea food and local food

As everywhere in the Philippines, you should try some sea food, like for example pusit (squid), crabs, shrimps, fish and other.

Let’s not forget about local food and snacks like chicken sarol – chicken soup with coconut milk and vegetables. And if you like some sweet snack to your cup of coffee, try pastel – a sweet soft bun with sweet filling. Delicious!

And when you come to Mindanao around October look up earlier when exactly is the Lanzones Festival! Lanzones are common fruits from southern Philippines. Delicious and very sweet but also very healthy. During the season they cost only as much as 20 pesos per kilo! Do you know how to tell that someone just had a lot of lanzones? Shake hands. His fingers will be very sticky!

  1. Visit Camiguin and the White Island

Camiguin is a volcanic island just north from Cagayan de Oro. Not far from Camiguin’s north shore there is a unhabited White Island. It’s a horseshoe shaped bar of white sand, with no trees, bushes or even grass. To get there you have to hire a local boat!

It’s a lovely place to spend the morning – turquoise water surround the islet and a Hibok-Hibok volcano just across the bay makes the scenery even more astonishing.

When you are in the White Island look for local sellers with baskets – they sell sea urchin, that you can eat. Watch out at the stings – they are poisonous. But urchin with vinegar is interesting to taste!

  1. Sunken Cemetery

The volcano of Hibok-Hibok erupted in 1871 causing huge damages in the surrounding area. One of the places destroyed by volcano was an old cemetery. The eruption moved the ground and the cemetery was flooded by ocean, that’s why it’s called Sunken Cemetery.

Over 140 years coral reef has grown in the cemetery and it’s a nice spot for snorkeling novadays. You can’t see any tombstones there, as that time they were made out of wood and didn’t survive until our times. However, if you look closely in some places you can see parts of sunken sculptures. Creepy and fascinating!

  1. Whitewater rafting on Cagayan de Oro river

If you are an adventure lover you must try whitewater rafting on Cagayan de Oro River – one of the best places in the Philippines to do rafting! The CDO river is just amazing for that – during 3 hours of rafting you pass about 14 rapids, you can swim in calmer parts of the river and admire beautiful scenery with green bushes and high cliffs.

The river is not difficult as it’s scored on level 3+ so you don’t have to be advanced in rafting to take part. However, as every extreme sport, it may be dangerous so make sure you always listen to your guide!

But Mindanao is not only Cagayan de Oro and Camiguin. It’s Davao, white beaches, canyoning, kayaking, swimming in the waterfalls and the island of Siargao, the paradise for surfers! That’s why Mindanao is called the land of promise. It just promises a lot to every visitor and you cannot be disappointed!

How to get to Mindanao from Manila?

Take a flight from Manila to Laguindingan Internation Airport (CGY) with Cebu Pacific. The transfer to Cagayan de Oro city from the airport takes about 1 hour.

To get to Camiguin you have to take a ferry from Bayan ng Balingoan (around 2 hours from Cagayan de Oro).

Check out more of Hanna’s travel experiences at http://hannatravels.com

Filipino Traditions during All Saints’ Day

Guest blog by: Hanna Sobczuk

I believe that taking part in local holidays is one of the best ways to learn about other cultures. On the 1st November, which is All Saints’ Day in Catholic Church I was in the Philippines, in Manila. As a traveller I couldn’t skip the opportunity and simply had to visit one of the cemeteries, the Manila North Cemetery, to see how Filipinos celebrate this holiday. And after I did I believe it was one of the best experiences I had here in Manila!

All Saints’ Day is a Christian holiday celebrated in honour of all the saints, known and unknown. However, for most people it is a holiday to commemorate all the family members and friends who passed away. As it is a public holiday, there is no school or work this day.

However, in the Philippines this holiday is not only to remember the deceased but also to gather with living members of the family, sometimes even the whole clan.

Many people come to the cemetery even one day before All Saints’ Day. Sometimes they spend the night there. Many people bring the tent and camp by the tombs of their relatives. First they clean graves and afterwards they eat, drink and festive to remember, as Jesus used to feast with his desciples and followers. Some Filipinos believe that the souls of the relatives feast alongside with alive family members. They also pray for the deceased and recite the Rosary.

In the past people used to gamble by the graves, too, mostly by playing cards, but the government banned it few years ago.

During All Saints’ Day everybody leaves the flowers and lits up candles on the graves – flowers to remember that deceased also used to enjoy the colors of life once and candles as a symbol of love and hope for peacful salvation of those who passed away.

When the candles burn out, children shape the wax into balls for fun.

After coming back home from cemetery families leave burning candles by the front door. It is an old superstition. Filipinos believe that the soul may follow them into the house so by burning the candle they show that they still remember the late members of the family and it’s no need for the soul to enter the house.

How did I feel as a foreigner to observe so different celebration of the holiday that I know from my own culture?

I have to admit that it was a cultural shock for me.

First of all, because I have never been to a cemetery in the Philippines. The graves here are in mausoleums, sometimes really big! Some of them are colorful and beautiful, other are small and modest. There are even mausoleums with second floor on the top because some cemeteries in Manila are already overfilled with tombs,

What is more, when I enter the cemetery I am overwhelmed with the number of people and… street vendors who want to sell almost everything. Food, drinks or sweets – I have seen a Dunkin’ Donuts stall! But also toys for children, balloons and of course candles and flowers. Of course there are no rubbish bins so all the garbage is lying everywhere in the ground…

But for me the most interesting in the cemetery are the people. People who visit graves and gather around them but also people who live in the cemetery. Like the children who buy used wax from visitors for as little as 12 pesos per kilo. It’s somehow shocking to witness this kind of poverty and also difficult to understand – why they want to live in the creepy cemetery? But those people say that it is more peaceful to stay among the dead than live on the street.

I’m trying not to be rude and not to point my camera on them. It’s already dark too and shaded alleys between graves are not invating to stroll there so soon I decide to leave the cemetery.

Visiting the burial ground during All Saints’ Day was an interesting experience and a chance to at least try to understand a bit of Filipino culture. What I liked the most is a contrast between Western cultures, in which death and All Saints’ Day is calm and focused on contemplation, and Filipino culture, in which people celebrate this holiday in happier way. I think it is amazing that instead of being sad and miss those who passed away, Filipinos are light and grateful to remember all the good things about their late relatives.

If you ever have a chance to be in the Philippines during All Saints’ Day I highly recommend to visit the cemetery and witness the celebration. Or even visit the cemetery without any special reason or holiday. Z Hostel’s staff is always helpful to give you some tips about it. 🙂

Check out more of Hanna’s travel experiences at http://hannatravels.com

Christmas in the Philippines: Ayala Triangle Lights and Sounds Show

Forget about Makati City being just a concrete jungle, dull and boring. It’s Christmas time! And this central business district might just be the most shining and shimmering in the entire Manila. Ayala Triangle Gardens, right at the heart of Makati, is once again showcasing its highly anticipated Christmas Lights and Sound show!

Photo by Aliana Juson

It is seriously one of this season’s highlights that a lot of people look forward to every year during Christmas (which by the way starts as early as September in the Philippines). It’s a visual and auditory feast: Bright and blinking lights, LED meteors, and lasers gracefully dance to the tunes of Christmas carols and all-time popular songs in the middle of the busy Makati.

And this year’s “Festival of Lights” is a showstopper as it features 3 medleys: a rapid and vibrant one inspired by Rio de Janeiro, a second part with a musical score from enchanting and magica period films, and lastly, a dreamy concluding act with millions of blinking lights moving along our beloved Disney songs.

The Festival of Lights opened November 15 and lasts until January 8, 2017! You’ve definitely got time to bask in this holiday spectacle! The show starts every 6PM and runs on 30-minute intervals until 10 in the evening. In between, stroll around the gardens and feast on food in several restaurants inside and around the park.

Photo by Aliana Juson

The show is for free and hey, the gardens are just a good 15-20 walk from Z Hostel! So take your GoPro or whatever camera you use, head to Ayala Triangle, and give that travel video a colorful and dazzling spin!

Top Things To Do in Palawan

Guest blog by: Hanna Sobczuk

Palawan, one of the beautiful islands in the tropical paradise in Philippines, is situated in the South of Manila. It is also called as the world’s natural heritage and reserve place filled with rainforests, cliffs, caves, beaches, and mountains. Palawan is the paradise for divers giving world’s best waters for swimming, diving, and island hopping. A summary of the list of activities and attractions to do and see in Palawan is here to guide you.

Hiking

A bird’s eye view of Bacuit Bay is visible from the Taraw Cliff in El Nido. The effort of 2.5 hours going up s worth it. Cleopatra’s Needle is one of the challenging hiking spots for climbers requiring 3 to 4 days to reach the top. There are numerous enchanting river crossings along the way.

Cruising in the Underground River

The Underground River National Park is one of the top attractions of Palawan enlisted as UNESCO Site and was chosen as one of New7Wonders of Nature. The river goes through the large cave under the mountain range. The National Park is a home for many animal species, like birds and bats. The whole ecosystem here is considered as one of the most important forests in Asia. No surprise then why it is so popular among tourists!

Island hopping

Some rare species of marine animals live in the small islands of El Nido and Coron. A tour guide will take you to islands where you can see a variety of fish and other animals living in the coral reefs. Snorkel and try to discover the underwater paradise. You will also see amazing turquoise lagoons of El Nido and Coron, the island north of Palawan. Beside that you will also be able to see waterfalls, explore caves, and climb the cliffs. Don’t forget about camping on remote island!

Scuba diving

If you prefer more adventurous way of spending time and you are a fan of exploring underwater world, you should stay longer in El Nido and Coron for scuba diving. El Nido offers huge variety of diving spots with underwater natural paradise full of coral reefs, while around Coron you can find ship wrecks from World War II.

Amusement parks and wildlife

Puerto Princesa City is wrapped up with amusement parks, cathedrals, and food courts. The amusement parks have many endangered wildlife species that make it worth visiting. Butterfly Garden and Wildlife Rescue and Conservation center in Puerto Princesa has crocodiles having the biggest crocodile. Baker’s Hill is just a few miles away from the town to get delicious pastries at such a low price. Stroll along the Bay walk of Puerto Princesa to have an amazing view of sunset.

Paraw Sailing

The traditional sailboat of Filipino is called Paraw. It is one of the best ways to explore the beaches of Palawan. Tourists find it relaxing and free their minds from stress with sailing along with enjoying healthy and yummy seafood.

Dolphin watching

The site where the dolphins are spotted can be visited with boats. Tourists enjoy the view of hundreds of dolphins swimming and jumping alongside their boats. They swim so close to the boats that tourists experience breathtaking view of wonderful creations of sea.

Bird watching

It is fascinating view to watch birds, their nests and chirping of more than 50 species. The Emerald Playa Beach and Nature Park provide binoculars to visitors to enjoy watching birds.

Fishing

Palawan has some great seafood. Almost 60% of the fish comes from Palawan for different markets across the country. Freshly cooked or grilled fish for lunch or dinner can be obtained at any local restaurant. Fishing boat can be arranged at Puerto Princesa to grill your catch right away.

Hopefully you must have gotten the answer to what to do in Palawan. When you are planning for island hopping or visiting other attractions in Palawan, you can always head towards Z Hostel in Makati, Manila where friendly staff is ready to help you in organizing your trip.

Check out more of Hanna’s travel experiences at http://hannatravels.com

Bucky’s in Poblacion, Makati: Comfort food gone indulgent

You won’t miss it, especially when the waiters leave the table with your orders. “Not a brownie” boldly says the back of their shirts. “So what the fudge is a bucky?”

A cake? Nope. A cookie! Nope. Oh a brownie-cookie = bucky! Nice try. Well, think of it as a flourless chocolate cake married with fudge brownie. But whatever its real anatomy is, this heavenly slice of goodness is definitely worth a bite at Bucky’s in Poblacion, Makati.

You might have actually tasted some buckies at Toby’s Estate coffee shops or in Rockwell’s dessert bazaar but it has finally found a home in their first ever “shack”, which rightfully fits in the same space housing new gastronomic hotspots such as Wild Poppy, Alamat Pub and Deli, and Smokeyard Barbecue. Just a few steps away from Z Hostel, Bucky’s is also a perfect prelude for a long night of tipples at the popular hostel roofdeck.

Before we dive deep into Bucky’s sea of sweets, let’s take a first bite into their savory treats: comfort food taken to a new level. You might start off with something healthy to make way for the, sorry for the lack of a better term, sinful desserts after. Get the Beet Salad, beets in a bed of arugula garnished with pickled onions and homemade ricotta cheese.

Waste no time and order Fried Chicken with Mashed Potatoes. No wonder it’s a bestseller, double-fried tender juicy boneless thighs with extra crispy skin and a really tasty gravy on the side. The mashed potatoes is a win-win, one of the best you can find around Manila.

Craving for more? Fill up with their sumptuous Baked Ziti. Make sure to amp it up and add on Ragu (why is it even an option?) and you are in pasta paradise!

For those who want to fill up but resolved to “eating healthy” this new year, their Badi Bowl is perfect for you. It is a huge serving of homemade fruity yogurt parfait topped with fresh banana slices, chia seeds, granola, grains, and coconut shavings. Who said healthy looks and tastes yucky!

Now for the main acts! It’s time to indulge in their heavenly Bucky bars which come in different variants.

If the sweet tooth in you is looking for more, you won’t regret having the Original Parfait. It is wickedly good and sweet: a big cup of homemade creamy softserve ice cream (made from carabao’s milk!) with salted caramel syrup, chocolate chips, marshmallows, and brown butter polvoron on a bed of original Bucky chunks. If it doesn’t take you to sugar paradise, we don’t know what will.

Once you’ve tried it here, you’ll wish the place was bigger. Because you’d definitely want to take all your buddies for a comfort food and indulgent dessert feast here at Bucky’s.

Bucky’s

5666 Don Pedro Street, Poblacion, Makati City

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