A Flashpacker

I learned something new as I browse the internet searching for our next travel destination; Flashpacking a new version of backpacking.

Flashpacking is a new word used to refer to an affluent backpacker. flashpacking has an association of more disposable income while traveling and has been defined simply as backpacking with a bigger budget. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backpacking)

Well, they say flashpackers are travelers ages in the  range of mid 20's to early 30's finding adventure but still travel like a backpacker. They have a bigger budget compared to a backpacker; comfort travel is a must.

Though they have a bigger budget than a backpacker, flashpackers still prefer to stay on a hostel or guesthouses rather than in a fancy expensive hotels. They still use public transport such as bus, trains, etc.. Flashpackers still has a backpackers mentality.

Flashpackers usually don't go on tour packages, rather they make their own itinerary and go to places by themselves. The more adventurous the better. ㋡

Flashpackers usually have these gadgets/items on them during their travels;
✓ Laptop
✓ Digital Camera
✓ MP3 player
✓ Mobile Phone
✓ Body essential products (travel kit)


.... If that's being a flashpacker, then maybe I'm one of them. Budget trips, comfort, adventure, new experiences. ♥

 A flashpacker or a backpacker as you are, it doesn't matter, as long as you enjoyed the adventures and misadventures of your travel.
Memories and Experience is still the best thing you can have.  ♡ ♡ ♡

Intramuros: A glimpse of the old Philippines

I've worked and lived in Metro Manila but i haven't visited this place. So this time, I really made a point that i should visit this street.

Together with my Cousin, we explored Intramuros.

We ate first our lunch at a fine restaurant, run by nuns in front of the St. Augustine Church. Yes! They have cool menus named after the Bishops and the food is great.

Our tummy is full, then its walking time in the streets of Intramuros.

kalesa

The architectural design is really well preserved. though there were lots of establishment around the area they didn't alter anything.

Security guards of the establishment in the area are in "guardia civil" outfit just like in the spanish times.

The road is paved with bricks and as if your walking in the old Philippines that we've seen in the old movies and pictures in our books of Philippine History.

You will also pass by old churches, such as St. Augustine Church, and Manila cathedral. Not far from there is the CBCP and the Governor's Bldg (this is where the Comelec is now situated).

The Manila Cathedral

Just go straight, and you will find Fort Santiago. (see my next post)

I'm really fascinated with what i have seen it's like remembering our Philippine history lectures back in grade school and high school years.♥ ♥ ♥

Island Hopping in Enchanted River

Aside from the blue waters of the  Enchanted River, Hinatuan also offers some island hopping.

waiting for our boat

We rented a boat not that big though, for a per hour basis. Each boat will just carry 5 passengers and 2 boat men.

Our first stop, is the island of Pangasinan, which is just few minutes away from the river, but going there is just so thrilling since we saw big waves from afar. 【ツ】 We just made some picture taking in the island, then were off the next destination; which is the cave.

At the cave, you will see a big statue of Mama Mary.

From the cave, we went for some river cruise and pass-by some fish cages.

It took us almost 2 hours for that island hopping. ✰ ✰ ✰

☞ Boat Rental: Php 150/ hour (good for 5 persons)

Enchanted River, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur

Our third and last stop on our Surigao del sur Trip: Enchanted River of Hinatuan.

After we had our breakfast in Bislig City, we headed to Hinatuan which is almost two-hours away. The time that we went there, there are lots of road constructions and road to enchanted river is not yet developed so make sure that your car is in good condition. (^_^)

Hinatuan Enchanted River is one of the tourist destination in Surigao del sur. As we arrived there, there were already lots of tourist. Cottages are almost occupied and thankfully, we already had a reserved cottages. Upon the gate, entrance fee is already collected and the cottage fee.

Just Outside the gate is a stretch of food stores. You'll just order fresh seafoods and they will cook it for you. Crabs are just the best there.

Enchanted River is really is enchanting; with its deep blue waters you really be tempted to get wet. on the deepest part of the river the water is so blue and alongside its greenish blue color.

The water its so cold and the current of the river is so fast, but it didn't bother us. Instead, the coldness of the water relaxed our tiresome body.  ☆ ☆

People are flocking when its feeding time for the beautiful fishes. They say, no one had ever caught a fish in the river that's maybe why its called enchanted.  ㋡

Enchanted River also offers island hopping. You'll get to visit the nearby islands, cave and fish cages. ---(see on my next post)

☞ Entrance Fee: Php 20.00
☞ Parking Fee: Php 10.00
☞ Cottage Fee: Depends on the size

Tinuy-an Falls, Surigao del Sur

Tinuy-an Falls, the cascading waterfalls.








From the Island Hopping in Barobo, we went straight to Bislig City which is almost an hour travel. Second stop on our Eastern Mindanao Roadtrip; Tinuy-an Falls.

welcoming view from the entrance

☼ With the sun up so high, reflecting sun rays on the flowing water with rainbows... wholla!!! its a great picturesque.

Tinuy-an Falls, as they say its "the little Niagara of the Philippines" is one of the tourist destination in Bislig City.

The Falls is surrounded with a vast rainforest with big green trees around. There's a stairs going up the falls for a greater view of the falls.

view on the way up

From above there's another 3 levels of waterfall, where we have the chance to soak in our salty body.  ☀ ☁

view above the falls

 ... a magnificent haven in Bislig City despite the long journey its worth traveling. ❧❧❧