december-2011

JERRY LIM LEE
PHILIPPINES
NAGA
AREA CODE (54)
CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TOUCHDOWN Naga City Airport is about 12km
from the city center, accessible by many forms
of transportation including bus, van, jeepney and
tricycle. You may also hire an eight-seat kalesa to
tour the city.
BY DAY The city has its own eco-trail and nature
park on Mt Isarog. One could take a hike, bike or
run on the trail, which starts in Panicuason village
to the peaks of Mt. Isarog. Or just stroll through the
city to shop or dine.
BY NIGHT Night-time is alive in the city of
Naga. The Magsaysay commercial district hosts
a long line of bars, clubs and restaurants. You
can also choose from high-end restaurants and
international cafés.
SLEEP There are many places to stay in Naga
City, but the most famous of all is the Avenue
Plaza Hotel, the only four-star hotel. www.
theavenueplazahotel.com/aph/hotel.html
Shiena Marino
Barrameda
freelance newspaper
journalist and
broadcaster
BEST BREAKFAST Kinalas
(beef noodle soup) and toasted
siopao at Dayangdang.
BEST DINNER Get your fi ll of
native Filipino dishes at Bigg’s and
Geewan restaurants.
BEST SOUVENIRS The
prettiest souvenirs are handwoven
bags and items made out of water
hyacinth.
KARA SANTOS
trip journal
PHILIPPINES
VIRAC
AREA CODE (86)
CURRENCY Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TOUCHDOWN Jeepneys and buses ply the
main thoroughfares of Catanduanes. Tricycles are
also a popular means of transport. On the other
hand, most hotels in the area can arrange for your
pick-up from the airport.
BY DAY Set out to Baras where Puraran Beach
Resort is and surf on its great waves. You can also
visit Twin Rock Beach Resort for other activities
like zip lining, wall climbing and kayaking. There
are a lot of activities to keep you on the go.
BY NIGHT Unwind and have a light beer at
Seabreeze Resto with your friends. The place
is known for its great, relaxing and romantic
ambience. It’s actually even perfect for a night out
with your loved one.
SLEEP Kemji Resort in San Isidro village has
a swimming pool and Wi-Fi access for those
who want to keep in touch. Even better, it is just
walking distance from the airport.
BEST DINNER Try kaldereta —
one of the all-time favorite dishes of
Pinoys — from Sandy’s Blossoms.
BEST SOUVENIRS Pili nuts
and abaca-made products like bags
and slippers.
LOCAL SPEAK Always
fi nish your phrases with “tabi.” It
shows that you’re a respectful and
considerate person.
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Priscilla
Milagrosa
former customer
service agent