Basic HTML Version
152
{ }
AREA CODE
(62)
CURRENCY
Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TOUCHDOWN
Tricycles are the main means of
transport around the city. What’s more, Pagadian’s
tricycles are unique: they’re inclined at a 25˚ to
40˚ angle, which allows them to negotiate the
exceptionally hilly terrain.
BYDAY
Nature lovers will like the view of the city
and Yllana Bay at the top of Mt. Palpalan. Beach
lovers may want to swim at Puting Balas (white
sand beach) or the swimming pools at Springland
Resort. Try strolling around the city proper.
BYNIGHT
The new Dancing Fountain at Plaza
Luz is very entertaining, with its gleaming rush of
water, bright lights and soothing music. Find local
food stalls that serve grilled meats, or head to
Boss Café for caffeine, alcohol and videoke.
SLEEP
Mardale Hotel and Convention Center is
the newest place to stay in at the heart of the city.
Accommodations range from single occupancy to
family and suite.
www.mardalehotel.com
AREACODE
(65)
CURRENCY
Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TOUCHDOWN
There are tricycles as well as
single motorcycle services from the airport to
the city. The fare is negotiable, ranging from
PHP10–30. Once in the city, tricycles will be your
main means of transport.
BYDAY
Try sport-fishing in Dipolog City, which
is being promoted as Western Mindanao’s sport-
fishing destination. Have a fun-filled day at the
Cogon Tourism Complex, then taste Dipolog’s
local delicacies along Dipolog Boulevard.
BYNIGHT
Watch the sunset overlooking Dipolog
Boulevard at Cusina de Binoys. Or have a cup
of coffee or a slice of cake at Café Isabelle, and
then drop by their gift shop for a wide range of
pasalubong
items.
SLEEP
Top Plaza Hotel is ideal for travelers on the
go. It’s just a block away from the shopping areas
and only 10 minutes away from the airport.
Tel:
+63 (65) 212 5777 and 212 5536
PHILIPPINES
PAGADIAN
PHILIPPINES
DIPOLOG
PHILIPPINES
TAWI-TAWI
AREA CODE
(68)
CURRENCY
Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TOUCHDOWN
There are no cabs in Tawi-Tawi.
Tricycles are everywhere, though, especially in
Bongao, the capital. Drivers charge PHP15–20
per 5km. To visit nearby islands, rent a
lantsa
(small motorboat) for about PHP100.
BY DAY
Explore the uninhabited island of
Palanjal Kam Balobok Rock, which is perfect for
sunbathing and private picnic lunches. When you
finally decide to take a dip, you will find fantastic
coral reefs that are great for snorkeling.
BY NIGHT
There are very few
inihaw
(grill)
restaurants at night, so try to have dinner in one
and sample the local specialties. It would be
amazing if you can go to Turtle Island and be able
to witness the turtles hatching.
SLEEP
When in Bongao, stay in Hotel Juana; it
has its own grill restaurant. It has basic amenities
and is strategically located in Datu Halum St. in
the heart of the city.
Tel: +63 (68) 268 1018
SAMUEL DE LEON
EDGAR ALAN ZETA YAP
EDGAR ALAN ZETA YAP
BEST BREAKFAST
Eat freshly
baked wheat bread with espresso
or a Pinoy-style breakfast at Caffe
Antonina’s.
INSIDER TIP
Motorcabs are the
usual form of transport at only PHP7 for
any destination within the city.
BEST BUYS
Make sure to bring
home a box of Dipolog’s number one
delicacy — Spanish sardines!
BEST BUYS
The local
bulad
(dried
fish), peanut brittle and indigenous
handicrafts are worth looking into.
BEST DINNER
The pork
patatim
at Waling-Waling restaurant in Hotel
Alindahaw will fill you up, and is a
perfect way to end your day.
MUST-TRY
Ride the unique tricycles
of Pagadian, which are mounted at 25°
to 40° angles.
BESTFESTIVAL
Kamahardikaan
(which means “freedom”) Festival. It
has a range of interesting activities.
MUST-TRY
Snorkeling; feast your
eyes on the beauty of underwater life
and the magnificent corals.
BESTBREAKFAST
Coffee shops
serve mouthwatering delicacies such as
darar, palikambing, junai, panpan
and
pasong.
Paulina Uy
freelance
photographer
Dionel
Barrozo
Estabas
registered nurse
Ayunan
Grande
Gunting
travel journalist/
photographer
06CA Smile
Ser 4
129-152 Trip Journal - Domestic.indd 152
1/18