Blog, Domestic, Travel

The City of Gentle People

Posted by Heidi Uy

Last October 28, my Aunt Chat, Sister Phae and cousin Kei whom I also considered girlfriends got a special birthday gift for me. Initially, we planned to go to Bali, Indonesia for a relaxing birthday getaway. But because of the haze pollution there right now, we deemed it healthier to take a whiff of our own provincial breeze. We ended taking a  different adventure….. and we weren’t wrong, for it really was more fun in the Philippines.

Come have a look and discover the hidden gems of our country.

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And that unique rock formation…
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Exploring the treasures of Apo Island

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I am so amazed, I finally swam with one of the earth’s most ancient creatures – sea turtle.

We stayed in Acqua Dive Resort. Kei was in charge of booking our accommodation. Good job! As she mentioned,  (and we completely agree), the entire place was serene, fresh and clean and looked after by pampering staff to ensure a truly relaxing and stress-free getaway for everyone. A very comfortable and spacious accommodation. She booked an average-sized room but got upgraded to the best room in the resort (the one with balcony facing the pool and beachfront, FOR FREE!) It is a piece of paradise we super enjoyed staying at. Acqua Dive meals meticulously prepared by the resort’s in-house cook were just heaven – quality worthy of fancy restaurants in the comfort and tranquility of a provincial beachfront and priced reasonably!

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acqua dive food

Of course, no vacation is complete without city tour and food trips.

Starting with Siliman University, the first ever American University in the Philippines and in the entire Asian Continent.

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Jawbones found in Siliman University Marine Laboratory

A visit to cultural sites

Monument of the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres
Monument of the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres
The Temple and Bell Church
The Temple and Bell Church

The famous San Rival Restaurant

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A fresh and satisfying seafood meal at Lab-as Hayahay. Thank you to my thoughtful brother in law Noel for treating us to this feast despite his busy schedule.

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To complete the vacation, a church visit is a must.

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Cathedral of St. Catherine of Alexandria

Unique travel adventure is worthwhile. Truly, more fun in the Philippines. Thank you so much girlfriends, this gift really touched me. Vacation is the perfect way to relax and giving it is a memorable one, definitely the way to go!

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Hugs,

Heidi

 

 

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