april-2012

trip journal
PHILIPPINES
SURIGAO
AREA CODE (86)
CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TOUCHDOWN Upon arrival, you can hire
a jeepney or tricycle to get around the city.
Although there are no taxis, most hotels offer a
complimentary van pick-up from the airport as
well as for departure.
BY DAY If you’re adventurous, try spelunking at
Silop Cave, which is only 15 minutes away from the
city proper. Also visit the Day-asan fl oating village,
which is known as the best community-based ecotourism
destination.
BY NIGHT Go bar hopping; start at the Jannex
Resto Bar, then proceed to Power Play Resto Bar
and Dominic’s Bar — where the party never stops.
Also try Mario’s Grille and Restaurant, which hosts
live bands daily except Sunday.
SLEEP Stay at the Philippine Gateway Hotel in
Km. 3 Brgy. Luna. This hotel is one of the fi nest in
Surigao City, known for its elegance and style and
affordable rates. Tel: +63 (922) 441 8508
Benzene Jay
R. Saratorio
service assistant
LOCAL SPEAK Say "Marajao
na pagpanaw” to departing guests; it
means “Have a safe trip.”
INSIDER TIP The beach is only
30 minutes by land westward from
Surigao City.
MUST-TRY Go swimming,
windsurfi ng or simply wait languidly for
the sun to set in dramatic splendor at
Mabua Pebble Beach.
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EDGAR ALAN ZETA YAP
PHILIPPINES
SIARGAO
AREA CODE (86)
CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TOUCHDOWN Taxis are available both at the
airport and at Dapa Pier. You can also ride a habalhabal
or an extended-seat motorbike to get to your
lodgings. There are mini and jeepney buses on the
island itself.
BY DAY Enjoy the many natural wonders: visit the
breathtaking TakTak Falls, or go swimming and
diving in the Magpopongko Pools. If exploring virgin
caves is your thing, there is a seemingly unlimited
supply in Siargao.
BY NIGHT Just relax or stroll along the beach
after dinner. It makes for good bonding time
with family and friends amidst a relaxed and
quiet atmosphere. Night owls can check out the
nightlife in the Gen. Luna area.
SLEEP Jafe Surf and Sail Camp Resort is a good
choice. You can choose between air-conditioned
and non air-conditioned rooms. Tel: +63 (917) 321
5622, (939) 850 7701, www.jafesurfandsail.com
Jack
McCormack
resort owner
MUST-TRY If you have time, try
to collect your own bee honey while
trekking up the hills.
INSIDER TIP Rent a motorcycle for
around PHP500 a day or hire a van for
PHP3,000 a day.
BEST EVENTS Watch out for the
International Fishing Tournament in
May and the Surfi ng Tournament in
October.