Why You Should Explore the Secret Paradise of Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines

Coming to Caramoan is like discovering a hidden treasure. Caramoan is composed of numerous small islands that used to be unheard of until a popular reality TV series, the Survivor, chose the islands to be its setting. Understandably so, the islands are a picture of serenity amidst the chaos in the city. They are a welcome respite to the everyday stresses of urban dwellers. Hidden for such a long time are the varying hues of blue-and-green seas, corals, lush mountain vegetation, the fishes and the sands. The sands in the islands are, for me, their biggest treasures. Come and visit some of these islands and see for yourself why tourists are tantalized by these hidden treasures.

               The trip from Sabang Port, Camarines Sur, starts with a ferry ride to Guijalo Port, Caramoan. This takes a little more than an hour. The best time is to leave from 6 am and arrive at around 7:15 am.

               The tour of the islands is the best part of any Caramoan adventure. However, one can also enjoy other amazing tourist destinations like the Caramoan National Park, the Centro, and the beaches where one can indulge in swimming, diving, snorkeling and spelunking, among other water sports activities. The best part for me in my journey to Caramoan was island hopping, swimming and just drinking in the view of the different islands where nature was at its best.  

Minalahos Island (above).

               The first stop for us, AGM family and friends, was Minalahos Island. The small beach enclosed with imposing rock formations was the perfect place to take lunch. Having visited more famous white sand beaches in the Philippines, I was not impressed with the grayish and compact sand in this island. We had this souvenir picture (below) taken before partaking of our packed lunch.

AGM family and friends.

Lunch was the Philippines’ famous adobo and freshly caught steamed crabs (below)  provided by our tour operator c/o Joseph Valencia.

Steamed crabs for lunch.

Next stop was Matukad Island. A mystical island, the attraction of Matukad Island was the lagoon situated on top of the rugged cliff. My brother-in-law, Vidal was brave enough to climb the cliff and take this picture (below). The myth goes that whoever takes a picture of the fish in the lake dies, as the family who ate one of the two fishes caught in the lake died. Of course, some tourists were able to take a picture of the remaining fish and remain alive as of today.

Matukad Island.

              Not only was the mysticism of this island irresistible, the white sand impressed me. It was fine as powder, comparable to the white sand in Boracay, another famous tourist attraction in the Philippines. A tour of Caramoan will not be complete if you’re not able to take a shot of this view (below) from atop the cliff. This picture below pretty much sums up the alluring essence of Caramoan: the blue-green water, white powdery sand, limestone rock formation, and the lush mountain vegetation. 

Top View of Matukad Island.

For a perfect walk on the beach, one should not miss taking a souvenir photo in this island. I just noticed the sand turning pink here (below).

Matukad Island Beach.

The shallow clean water beckoned as the sun was searing hot. So I took the opportunity to bathe in the sea to cool myself. The water looked so clean with the white sand underneath. I could have stayed on, except that there were a few more islands to conquer.

Swimming in the clear waters off Matukad Island.

Next stop, Lahos Island. I’d rather remember this as ‘lagusan’, Pilipino term for tunnel or passage way. Two big limestone rock formations separate the yellow-white, fine sand. One side of the island faces the Caramoan mainland; while the other side of the island is the Pacific Ocean, facing Marinduque, another gateway to Caramoan. 

Lahos Island (above).

Taking deep breaths of the cool, fresh air, drinking in the view, and walking barefoot on the soft as silk yellow-white-almost-pinkish sand of this island were a perfect breather from all of life’s hustles. Notice that I was not sure of the sand’s color (yellow, white or pink?). Maybe you could decide for yourself when you visit Caramoan.

Lahos Island Beach.

We took time swimming on the Pacific Ocean side. The large coral stones provided shade from the dangerous glare of the sun. At the same time, non-adventurous swimmers, like us, enjoyed wallowing in the knee-deep water (below).

After swimming, a souvenir shot was in order (below).

And a jump shot by the boys (below).

 Further along, we made a stop to fully appreciate the hidden treasures of the sea. Snorkeling must be taken advantage of. But my husband, Leo, ‘born-and-raised-on-the-sea’, dove without snorkels. As you can see from the picture below, the water was shallow, so it’s not scary at all, even for neophyte divers.

Leo, diving without snorkels.

On the picture below are what one sees in the water, live corals, where ‘Nemo’ feeds and breeds.

Corals with 'Nemo'.

The others rested on the boat while we slowly inched our way up (below).

The last stop was a hidden cove (below), wherein, we waited for the low tide to see its full splendor, or else miss the beach entirely.

The cove had this cave (below), where, it was easy to imagine hiding from the ferocious tropical typhoons that visit the Philippines often. Since it was summer, hiding from the hot glare of the sun was a more acceptable reason. Once again, I was amazed by the different texture and color of the sand in this island, yellowish and coarse. I wonder why these islands were made different from each other: maybe showing off the Philippines’ beauty in diversity?

On the way back, a picture of a lone fisherman (below) plying the Caramoan waters, greeted us; maybe, going home after a bountiful catch for the day.

We stayed overnight at the River View Inn courtesy of a package tour prepared and handled by their guide, Joseph Valencia, who has become a friend to us. We went back home to Donsol, Sorsogon the way we came. From River View Inn we were brought to the pier by the resort van; then we rode the boat to Sabang pier. Then, we rode our private vehicles which we parked near the port in Sabang. After about four hours, we reached Donsol, Sorsogon.

How to go there:

From Manila: Ride a bus or plane going to Naga City. The best time is to leave Manila around 9 pm (by bus). Around 6 am, ride a van going to Sabang Port. Then take a ferry going to Caramoan Guijalo Port. If you made a reservation, staff of your resort will fetch you and take you to your resort. A few minutes of rest and you should be ready to embark on your amazing Caramoan adventure.

For inquiries regarding your package tour you may contact AGM Beachfront Resort; email: agmresort@gmail.com; tel.no.: +63-9212660180; URL: www.agmresort.com

Best Philippine’s Giant Secret Revealed: Swimming With Whalesharks, Donsol, Sorsogon

     Since its revelation in 1998 to the media, tourists have been continuously going to the quaint town of Donsol for the amazing experience of swimming with whale sharks. Thus, previously unknown to many, the secret of the existence of these gentle giants has been revealed for the world to enjoy.

     Swimming with whale sharks is just like walking with dinosaurs. This is because the whale shark (Rhicondon typus) is the world’s largest fish, which, according to Wikipedia, grows up to 12.65 m or 41.50 ft or more, and weighs 21.5 mt or 47,000 lb. These giants of the sea visit Philippine waters, specifically, Donsol, Sorsogon from November up to June. Nomads of the sea, these migratory fish not only visit Philippine waters, what is more fantastic is the report by the WWF that whale sharks also breed in Donsol waters. See video here : https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=180493475819. 

Whalesharks are gentle giants of the sea. 

(Picture courtesy of http://worldwildlife.org/species/whale-shark)

This only means that we may see a lot more of this fish if we take care of them.  Whale sharks have big mouths that feed on planktons that are abundant in Donsol. According to my husband, who is a native of Brgy. Dancalan, whale sharks have been sighted as far back as he could remember. Since its revelation in 1998 to the media, tourists have been continuously flocking to the quaint town of Donsol for the amazing experience of swimming with the gentle giants. Thus, previously unknown to many, the secret of the existence of these gentle giants has been revealed for the world to enjoy.

Listed as one of the endangered species, an interaction with the ‘butanding’, as locals call it, should be part of your bucket list. Whale sharks are seriously jeopardized by commercial and accidental fishermen who sell the fish for its meat, fins and oil. So why don’t you swim with whale sharks until the supply lasts?

 In Dancalan, Donsol, Sorsogon, guests are required to register at the Whaleshark Interaction Center before embarking on their adventures (island hopping, diving, interacting with whalesharks, fireflies, manta rays, flying fish, etc.). My daughter, Tisa and his son, Kiel (below), registered as local tourists and paid P100 each. Foreign tourists are required to pay P300 each as registration fee.

Tisa and Kiel  at the Tourism Center (background).

Our family stayed at the AGM Beachfront Resort, 1 km away from the Whaleshark Interaction Center (WIC). The gate of AGM cannot be missed, left side of the road from Donsol town proper going to the Tourism Center.

AGM Beachfront Resort, Dancalan, Sorsogon, Philippines.

The AGM Beachfront Resort (below) is one, if not the most awarded resort by Trip Advisor. Located in Brgy. Dancalan, Donsol, Sorsogon, it has been consistently recognized for its excellent service to customers (http://www.agmresort.com/). 

 

Inside the AGM Beachfront Resort.

From time-to-time, boats are seen a few yards from the property because whale shark interaction with tourists is ongoing. Specifically, one Christmas day, boats with tourists on board were seen in front of AGM Beachfront resort on their whale shark interaction adventure (below). One boat can accommodate 6 persons and may be rented for P3,500/ boat.

Whale shark interaction in front of AGM Resort.

 Tisa and family are shown below during their whale-shark-watching-experience (below).

The latest addition to AGM resort is this infinity pool with a dazzling view of the sunset (below).

The pool has a Jacuzzi where guests can relax and enjoy their vacation (below).

     My family and I are enjoying the fresh crabs, shrimps and barbecue served at the AGM restaurant (below). The restaurant offers native, Mediterranean and Western fares at very reasonable prices.

Visit Donsol, Sorsogon, swim with whalesharks and stay at AGM Beachfront Resort, one of the most awarded resorts by Trip Advisor. Its rooms are air-conditioned, with toilet and bath and cable/TV in each room. Wifi is available in the restaurant. The rates of the rooms at AGM Beachfront Resort are as follows:

Standard Room: queen bed good for a couple (2 persons), Php 2,200/N

•        Additional person in a roll out bed: Php 300/N

Twin Room: 2 single beds for 2 persons, Php 2,400/N, tax included

•        Additional person on a roll out bed: Php 300/N 

Premium Twin Room: queen bed and a single bed good for 3 persons, Php 2,600, tax included  

•        Additional person on a roll out bed: Php 300/N

Family Room: 2 queen beds good for 4 persons, Php 3,000/N, tax included       

•        Additional person on a roll out bed: Php 300/N

               How to go there:

              

By plane: From Manila Domestic Airport to Legazpi  Airport takes 1 hour. From Legazpi, an AGM van can be rented and pick you up and bring you straight to AGM Beachfront Resort for a little over an hour.

               By bus: Take the bus plying the Manila-Legazpi route. This may take 10-12 hours. From Legazpi terminal, ride a van going to Donsol (about 1 hour). From Donsol town proper, ride a tricycle going to Brgy. Dancalan, 5  minutes away.

               By private car: Manila to AGM Beachfront Resort, Brgy.Dancalan, Donsol takes about 12-13 hours.     

Where Is The Beautiful Lady And The Snakes In The Philippines? Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa Ruins

    Mayon Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. Recently, Mayon Volcano was observed for signs of an imminent eruption. Local residents within the 6-km radius were evacuated to safety. Government and private agencies worked round-the-clock to monitor and provide relief to affected Bicolanos in the area. Mayon Volcano has since quietened down and residents sent back to their homes. When not in its active state, a view of Mount Mayon is a delight to tourists. Aside from the view of the volcano, visitors enjoy taking ‘selfies’ and ‘groufies’ near Cagsawa Ruins, shopping, food tripping and riding the All-Terrain-Vehicle (ATV).

Mt. Mayon, Legaspi, Albay, Philippines.

     Legend.  Mayon comes from the local term, ‘magayon’ meaning beautiful from a legend pertaining to an ancient princess, thus, the endearment, ‘beautiful lady’. This beautiful princess met a tragic end when his lover tried to rescue her from an atrocious suitor. From the princess’ grave grew a mound, Mount Mayon, rising to its present height of 2462 meters (picture below). Mount Mayon,  known for its perfect cone, has erupted 50 times. Thus, its perfect cone is not that perfect anymore.

     Wherever you go in Bicol, you will see the many faces of Mt. Mayon. This is because Mt. Mayon is geographically shared by eight cities and municipalities of Legazpi, Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan, Ligao, Tabaco, Malilipot and Santo Domingo, which divide the cone like slices of a pie when viewed from above. I took the pictures of Mt. Mayon (below) at different times and different places in Bicol.

Mayon Volcano is seen in many towns in Bicol.

     Cagsawa Ruins. One of the best views of Mayon Volcano is in Cagsawa Church Ruins. This baroque church built in 1724 by Franciscan friars suffered from Mayon’s most tragic eruption in 1814. It claimed almost 12,000 lives some were buried inside the church. Today, only the belfry remains standing after the onslaught of various earthquakes and tremors. The name Cagsawa came from 'kag' meaning “owner” and 'sawa' which pertains to a “phyton”, a type of snake. Legend has it that the church once kept snakes before it was destroyed by volcanic eruptions. (http://www.filipiknow.net/mayon-volcano-shocking-facts/). My daughter, Trina (left) and I (right) are shown below on our trip to Cagsawa Ruins. Unfortunately, Mt. Mayon did not show her splendor, as its almost perfect cone was covered with clouds. 

Cagsawa Ruins, Albay.

     Souvenir Shops. Near Cagsawa Ruins are souvenir shops with native handicrafts that Bicol is world famous for. On the way to visit me in Donsol, Sorsogon, in 2013, my friends posted this on face book.

Shopping for native handicrafts at the Cagsawa Ruins.

     Food Kiosks. Also, becoming popular and found near the ruins are food kiosks that offer new twists to old favorites like the ‘sili’ (chili) shake below. This refreshingly cold and ‘hot’ shake is made up of crushed ice, milk, sugar, mixed with ‘siling labuyo’, the smallest but the hottest pepper in the country. On the picture below is my nephew, Jolo, about to try this local dessert.

Chili shake to cool a hot day. 

     ATV Ride. An adventure worth trying on your visit to Mt. Mayon is the all-terrain-vehicle (ATV) ride. Local and international tourists have been trying this sport of driving the ATV from Cagsawa ruins. Other take-off points are Ligñon Hill and Barangay Pawa. From Cagsawa ruins, options are whether to take the short trail, the green lava or the black lava trails. The following are the rates offered by an ATV tour operator (known to us, his friends, as Boraw):

Trail	Engine cc	No. of persons	Rate (pesos)
-Short trail – 45 minutes -Black lava – 3 hours -Green lava- 3 hours	150 150 350 500 Rancher-type ATV 150 350 500	1 adult 1 adult 2 adults 2 adults, 1 kid 4 adults 1 adult 2 adults 2 adults, 1 kid	699 1850 3500 4000 4500 1500 3000 3500

     Tour operators are proud of the visit of Hollywood celebrity, Zac Efron, to Mt. Mayon. Shown here (below) is his ATV adventure. Photo courtesy http://www.mayonatvtour.com/.

Zac Efron tries out the ATV ride.

In some of our trips going to Bicol, we ride the airconditioned buses from Cubao terminal. Our usual schedule is 6-7pm leaving Cubao and arriving at around 6-7am the following day in Legazpi City, Albay. The buses are comfortable with designated stops for meals and comfort room breaks. We usually sleep on the way, making sure we bring our jackets and head covers because the ‘aircon’ could become uncomfortably cold.

Riding a bus to go to Bicol Region.

Don’t miss the ‘beautiful lady’, Mayon Volcano, and the ‘snakes’, Cagsawa ruins, on your visit to Bicol. Be enthralled by the splendor of this active volcano that may be seen from eight Bicol cities and towns. Enjoy the adventures in-and-around the place to satisfy the travel species in you.

 

How to go to Mt. Mayon:

-        By plane: Flights from Manila to Legazpi are available everyday. From Legazpi Airport, you can ride a taxi to Mt. Mayon in Daraga, Albay. Or you can ride a tricycle going to the city proper and ride a jeep going to Camalig.

-        By land: Buses plying the Manila-Legazpi route may be found in Cubao or Pasay terminal. You may go down at the entry way going to the Cagsawa ruins in Daraga. If you are coming from the town of Daraga, Albay, take a jeep (from Albay Cathedral) going to Camalig town.

              

-     Get off at the entry way to the Cagsawa ruins. Ride a tricycle all the way to the ruins, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. On the way back from Cagsawa, walk the 500m to the National Highway. Catch a jeep going to Daraga town. Entrance fee to the park is P10 each.