The Lesser Known travels: Puerto Galera (Port of Galleons)

It has been a long time since I had a chance to get away from it all. Since June of last year, I have been in an “all work and no play” situation. So when I got a chance to join on a resort immersion-tour, I did not let it pass.

The resort immersion-tour takes place at Puerto Galera, Mindoro Philippines. A destination I have never been to, which makes me a bit more excited. We left Manila at 7am and went on our way to Batangas (the link point to Mindoro). Contrary to majority of the tours going to the island, we had a stop at Berberabe Beach which is our jump off point going to Puerto Galera instead of accessing Batangas port. Berberabe Beach is used by tourists with private chartered boat arrangements. By that time, we already have our private motor boat awaiting us.

The Lesser Known at Berberabe Beach.
Intended for private boat chartered groups going to Puerto Galera.

At past 12pm, we arrived at Muelle Bay voted as one of the cleanest bays by a Vietnamese tourism organization. The bay is really clean and is populated by private yachts which I suppose are owned by foreigners who settled in the island. Arrived at Oceana Beach Resort, had a late lunch and inspected the entire property.

At Puerto Galera Tourist Information Center welcomed
by officers and the resort owner

We had a leisure time in the afternoon and went to White Beach which is the most famous and most crowded beach that Puerto Galera has. Not to mention that it is also poorly maintained. I strongly encourage the local government of Mindoro to do something about the deteriorating status of this very competitive and promising tourist destination before it’s too late. I explored the less than a kilometer stretch of sand at White Beach, observed the mix of local and foreign tourists, vendors and tattoo shops that proliferate within the area. Puerto Galera for me is less attractive than Boracay because there are no specific rules that govern the settlers and if there are any, they might not be strictly implemented.

The face of Puerto Galera White Beach full of benches and food outlets

The shore is cleaner and less populated on the right side of the beach.

Our residence for 5 days -- the serene Oceana Beach Resort
at Dulangan Beach

The Bayleaf Hotel: A charming boutique hotel in the heart of Manila

The Bayleaf Hotel Intramuros (photo courtesy of thebayleaf.com.ph)

Thursday morning. Accompanied my sister Jessilynn to school for enrollment which happened to also be the school where I graduated from college. It was in June that I last visited my alma mater, and on that day, I applied for my Alumni Identification Card. I was eager to do the accompanying coz aside from helping my sister enroll for the coming semester, I was also interested to visit the newly opened Bayleaf Hotel -- a botique hotel owned by the Laurels. It was to function as a fully operational hotel and at the same time, a training ground for the students of the Lyceum of the Philippines University under the College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management.

While waiting for my sister who was then queuing in a very long line of enrolling students, I managed to reacquaint with my college professors and visit The Bayleaf Hotel. I was with my aunt Flordeliza when we entered the lobby. We were just going to ask about the room rates. But after a short conversation, the front desk clerk offered us to visit and see the rooms and the restaurants. Josh, who is part of the concierge team led us. The rooms are neat, modern and very clean. Then we were escorted to the ninth floor where the main restaurant 9 Spoon is located. It has a refreshing ambiance with very wide windows, tastefully appointed dining tables and comfortable chairs. I immediately told myself that I wanted to dine here at the soonest time possible.

After a short tour of the hotel, we headed next to the LPU-CI (Lyceum of the Philippines Culinary Institute). We sought information regarding their culinary courses and again as a bonus, Chef Vince offered us to check out its facilities. The course fees are astronomical especially the Diploma courses fetching up to 200 grand. But with the facilities that it has, it's worth every peso.

Our last stop was at the Cioccolate Churros Cafe -- a small but chic churros and coffee house located at the ground floor of The Bayleaf Hotel. I ordered for the 5 pieces churros and an iced cafe mocha. The churros are crisp but it lacks the density that the churros from Dulcinea has. But I liked the Spanish chocolate dip which was for me, underportioned (coz I'm a chocoholic).

It was definitely a day to remember and to be proud of. Though I cannot get to use the new facilities of my alma mater, I'm still happy that it has grown and developed a lot since I graduated in 2006.

Churros con Chocolate and Iced Cafe Mocha for Mr. Jace

The Lesser Known enjoying his very much anticipated break
@ Cioccolata Churros Cafe, The Bayleaf Hotel Intramuros

A VISIT IN THE CITY

I do not quite remember the last time I had experienced the city living. Working in  San Fernando has been my way of life for three years now and I still consider it less stressful.


I am to participate in our scheduled tour yesterday but due to some circumstances, I was not made to join the group on departure. Instead, I was to remit the payments made by students to the cashier, get some updates, train Sir Marlon for the competition and then re-join my students at TGIF Malate.


It was 12:30 pm and I was about to leave San Fernando for Manila. Just when I was about to go, an emergency meeting came up. As the coach, I was required to attend. The meeting was not over until 4:30 pm and from that moment on, I was hurrying myself to come to Manila to join my students. It's about 5pm and from Pampanga, I found myself making my way to the bus station--city bound.


It was time to ride the MRT. That circumstance made me remember those times that I am battling the city crowd just to go to work everyday. Long lines for bag checking, ticket selling and uncertain time of waiting just to ride the train. Not to mention the very chaotic manner of people loading the train coaches. It was about 6:30pm. I was just thankful that I am south bound which is less populated than the north bound especially at that rush hour time. 


That moment, I appreciated the most. Extremely thankful that I was safe from the chaotic mass transportation system which I have experienced before. Alighted at Buendia Station, rode a jeepney and indulged in my favorite frappuccino at Starbucks Pacific Star Building before checking in at Makati Palace Hotel.


It was really a tiring and busy day. But instead of having an early retirement to bed, I spent the wee hours surfing the net, managed to greet some birthday celebrants and downloaded some songs. I realized I need more sleep.

THE RAINY DAYS ARE SO HERE

It's been raining for a couple of days. The long weekend has been spoiled by the rain pour. That could be the case for some but not ours. My family was able to celebrate Father's Day and also my mother's 56th birthday. After hearing mass at the St. Pio Chapel in Libis yesterday, we had a heavy luncheon at a nearby restaurant.


Raining continues, and I was stuck at home today. Being an outdoor guy that I was, I hate being stuck. I would always think of something to do other than being at home and doing nothing. One proof was during Good Friday where I have had a Holy Experience in Pampanga (the story to be posted soon). On a positive note, I was able to make the day productive despite being stuck. Sitting down with my laptop (the whole day), I was able to do my lectures, downloaded some music, facebooked and updated this blog.


After the typhoon left, there is another one coming according to the news. The rainy days are so here...what are you gonna do? OMG, I'd love to buy that yellow Nike jacket I saw last April. Jane Yagaya and Michael Nadurata! It's about time we buy this thing!

The Lesser Known loves BRAZIL

10 THINGS I LOVE AND MISS ABOUT THE LION CITY

It has been a month since I have had an ultra fabulous vacation in Singapore with my kin and I can’t help but remember the many happy and exciting moments I had with them. It was my first time to travel outside the country so it was like I cannot completely get over with it. The memories kept on flashing back every time I look at the pictures. My expectations were met and in some cases surpassed. Though we had a terrifying moment before departure, the whole trip was generally fulfilling and unforgettable. Speaking of being unforgettable, here are the 10 things I liked and miss about the trip and the Lion City:

10 - The city skyline

Much have been talked about Singapore (the city) than Singapore (the country). It is because of the major developments particularly to it's business districts occupied by towering buildings which could double in a couple of years. Although Singapore cannot compete in the highest buildings category (220 meters is the building code height limit) I still like the charm of the skyline which in my opinion, is best viewed at these places:

AT THE MARINA BAY AREA DURING THE NIGHT

AT THE SANDS SKYPOOL

AND OF COURSE, AT OUR HOTEL ROOM

9 - Changi International Airport

Efficient, huge and clean. We did not have trouble dealing with the immigration officer upon entering compared to what we experienced at the point of origin where some of us were held because of some pathetic reasons by some pathetic officers. Passing through Changi airport was a breeze. And the shuttle service was right there on time waiting for us --that's attention to detail.

THE VERY SPACIOUS ARRIVAL TERMINALS

THE SHUTTLE BUS TO THE HOTEL

8 - THE SHOPPES at Marina Bay Sands
Located just in front of the hotel, THE SHOPPES are a shopper's paradise--at least for those who have something to spend. It is infested with luxurious designer brand outlets, houses fine dining celebrity chef restaurants, a skating rink, specialty and convenience stores, theaters and so much more. Checked in at the hotel at 1pm, explored THE SHOPPES and it ate up the whole afternoon.

ONE OF THE MANY CELEBRITY CHEF OWNED RESTAURANTS.
THIS ONE IS CUT BY THE OSCAR AWARDS CATERER, WOLFGANG PUCK

AND THIS IS MOZZA OSTERIA AND PIZZERIA BY ITALIAN MARIO BATALI

THE SHOPPES HAS 800,000 SQUARE FEET OF RETAIL AND RESTAURANT SPACE
WHICH HOUSES ESTABLISHED AND EMERGING CLOTHING BRANDS

STROLLING AT THE EYE-CATCHING, CONTEMPORARY AND MODERN
SHOPPING MECCA OF THE LION CITY--THE SHOPPES

7 - The "Bread & Breakfast" at the Rise
The place is so alive with people having their morning rituals. And with 6 food stations to choose what to eat from, I had my stomach near to aching at the Rise restaurant. 

HOTEL GUESTS START THEIR DAY AT THE RISE

I HAD A VEGETABLE AND HAM OMELET, BACON, SAUSAGE
AND LOTS OF BREAD

TAKING TIME TO EAT. THOUGH I GOT MYSELF A BOWL OF MUESLI
AND A GLASS OF FRESH ORANGE JUICE AFTERWARDS

THE RISE IS TRULY A PLACE TO BE IN

6 - The $1 ice cream at Orchard Road

Good things come in small and simple packages as they say. And this was true when I saw an old man with a food cart selling an ice cream for one dollar. What's surprising is that the ice cream are in bars packed in a box, equally portioned for a single serving. The ice cream bar sliced, then wrapped in either bread or wafer and you'll be on your way enjoying a delightful dessert treat that's good on the budget!

THE Lesser Known AND THE $1 ICE CREAM

THIS COULD BE SINGAPORE'S VERSION OF THE PHILIPPINES' DIRTY ICE CREAM.
BUT PREPARED AND SOLD IN A MORE HYGIENIC WAY I GUESS

5 - The city's transport system

Singapore has one of the most efficient transport system in Asia. All train stations are connected or linked which means that tourists can roam around the city by just using trains. Do not worry because there are enough directions to show you where to go and they are written in English. The stations are clean, the trains arrive on time and surprisingly there is no person or official that drives it in front. 

NO PUSHING AND BUMPING (and groping) HERE

SINGAPOREANS RELY MOST ON THEIR TRAIN SYSTEM IN GOING
TO WORK AND ELSEWHERE. WHO WOULDN'T IF IT'S
VERY MUCH RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT.

EVEN BUSES ARE CLEAN AND ALSO USES THE SAME CARD
BEING USED IN TRAINS. YOU CAN PAY IN CASH ALSO.

4 - WONDER FULL (a lights and water spectacle)
It literally is wonderful and you get to experience it at no expense. Wonder Full is Marina Bay Sands Hotel's gift to Singapore. It is being shown every night at 8 and 9:30 pm and showcases an interplay of laser lights, LEDs, video projectors and huge water screens to create stunning visual effects. Awesome and WONDER FULL. I was speechless when I got to see it first.

ONE OF THE 3 WATER PROJECTORS AT WONDER FULL

DIFFERENT COLORS OF LIGHTS ARE USED TO ILLUMINATE THE FOUNTAINS.

WE HAD A BLAST

3 - The city's state of order
If there is something that I want my country to have is ORDER and being CLEAN. Singapore is so clean that even if you walk your feet for the whole day, it wouldn't get black contrary to what is likely to happen when you walk it in Manila. No pile of garbage, no traffic, no smoke belchers and nothing but ORDER.

GOOD JOB FOR THE STREET SWEEPERS

ROADS ARE WELL MAINTAINED AND ALWAYS CLEAN

2 - Universal Studios Singapore

Thanks to the money that I have collected from my aunt and my 2 uncles who won decent amount of dollars at the casino--I had extra money and won't have to shell out some which was alloted to buy some souvenirs...et voila I was on my way to the Universal Studios. It was the closest thing to Disneyland so I was really happy to have gone in. Though it was the most tiring day, it was also the most exciting and the most exhilarating. The park was tastefully designed and structured to present different themes and eras. I particularly like the New York Broadway theme and the Ancient Egypt where I rode a high speed indoor roller coaster that left me breathless and gasping for my breath. It was indeed a thrilling ride! Not to be forgotten was the purchase of theme park souvenirs and mementos. But most especially being happy to have spent the day with my cousins and relatives.

WITH THE GANG AT THE UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

The Lesser Known AT A BROADWAY THEATER REPLICA

WE HAD A THRILLING RIDE AT THE MUMMY

BEFORE LEAVING TO BUY SOME MERCHANDISE

GOOF SHOT

1 - The Marina Bay Sands Hotel and Casino

Yes, it was her! Just seeing her looks is magnificent.The thing that I have the most amazement with. Here's why:

THE HOSPITALITY

THE BREATHTAKING SKYPOOL AT THE SKYPARK

THE FOOD

THE CASINO OVERFLOWING WITH SLOT MACHINES, COFFEE, SODAS
AND HOT CHOCOLATE (though I did not win a single dollar at the casino)

THE ROOM....

WITH THE MOST SPECTACULAR VIEW

THE IMPECCABLE INSIDE

THE ALLURING OUTSIDE

Need I say more? 2,500 rooms, SG $8 billion, a one of a kind integrated resort. It's just magnificent, an architectural gem, a marvelous establishment for the most discriminating tourists. The hotel is living up to the expectation, the premier destination in the Lion City.

THIS PICTURE PRETTY MUCH SAYS IT

Till my next post...

The Lesser Known

I JUST BOUGHT MY OWN WEB DOMAIN

Being an obsessive human that I am in having my own web space, I have thought of buying my own web domain. This came about when I was trying to change my blog address (from ashtoncuatro to thelesserknown).


I have found out that there is already a Blogger account which is thelesserknown.blogspot.com which was poorly maintained by the person who created it. It was then that I came across to the web domain registration of google and that is where I purchased and registered my own domain for a modest price.

And now I have www.thelesserknown.com completely mine! Posting resumes after a very long hiatus.

THE THING THAT MADE ME SMILE TODAY!

Here is an article from Shaun Powell (at nba.com), a veteran NBA writer and columnist. After reading this article of his, I immediately liked him! Who wouldn’t? Especially if you are fan of the BLACK MAMBA!

Blessing # 1 rocked!

For NBA fans, there's much to be thankful for

We're all thankful for something. We just don't recognize it as much. Some things, we take for granted. Others, we express gratitude for only sporadically. Mainly on a specific day of the year.

So, in the spirit of what's coming on Thursday, here are 25 blessings the NBA should count:

25: Conseco Fieldhouse

All of the traditional arenas (Boston Garden, Fab Forum, Chicago Stadium) are gone. The best of the new is located in Indiana, hoops heaven, and has all of the nostalgic throwback touches that separate the building from all the rest.

24. Mikhail Prokhorov

The Russian billionaire is bringing deep pockets and a deeper love for basketball, exactly what the Nets need from an owner to survive. There's hope for the franchise after all.

23. Good guys

LeBron James and Dwyane Wade aren't prima donnas, even though they could be. You see it in so many other sports, where a superstar pulls rank and takes advantage of his fawning public. Sure, it sounds strange, giving someone credit for being a professional and a decent human being -- isn't that what we're all supposed to be? Nobody's perfect, but these two ambassadors try awfully hard to be.

22. Brandon Jennings in Milwaukee

High-profile rookie plays in a small market, which helps spread the wealth, and the word about the Bucks. For a while there, people forgot about Milwaukee. Now you can find a Bucks jersey in Kalamazoo without searching too hard.

21. Christmas Day monopoly

Celtics vs. Magic. LeBron vs. Kobe. Nuggets vs. Blazers. Wade plays, Nash plays. While the sports calendar takes a breather, the NBA has the date all to itself. After the NBA Finals and the All-Star Game, this is the most visible day of the season.

20. Oklahoma City

Nobody wanted them to leave Seattle, a great basketball town saddled by too much political mumbo-jumbo. But at least the Team Formerly Known As The Sonics found a place with a porch light on.

19. Ailing but able

Kareem, Maurice Lucas, Brian Grant, Paul Allen. Hanging tough in tough physical times.

18. Jerry Buss

Has there ever been a better owner in the NBA? He spends and rarely meddles. He always seems to make the right decisions involving players, coaches and management. He kept Kobe back when half of L.A. wanted Kobe gone.

17. Loyalty and stability

You don't see it many places. San Antonio's different. Greg Popovich, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker have been together for what, 20 years? Wasn't too long ago when Duncan could've left town. Instead, he trusted his heart, and the Spurs are still winning.

16. Mark Cuban

Say what you will about the man and his emotions, the good outweighs the bad.

15. Arvydas Sabonis

He opened the door for what we see now: Talent pouring in from all over the globe. It made sense that he played for Portland. He was truly a trail blazer.

14. Marv Albert, Jeff Van Gundy

Best play by play, best analyst. Candid, informative and refreshing. Contrary to what TV executives think, not many announcers add much to a telecast. They're the few that do.

13. Winning teams in L.A. and Boston

No, no one's saying this is the mid-1980s all over again. But with basketball struggling in New York, it's good for the league to have great players and winning teams in important markets with rich tradition.

12. Jerry Colangelo

He knows how to put together an international team that's capable of both winning and representing the country with dignity.

11. Steve Nash

Along with Molson's, Celine Dion and Wayne Gretzky, the best thing to come here from North of the border in decades. Not only is he good (two-time MVP), he's also entertaining. That combo is always worth the price of admission, either down here or up there.

10. No widespread scandal

As it turned out, only one referee was on the take. The NBA, or any other professional sports league, couldn't survive a gambling network among the officials.

9. Superman

First came Shaq, unstoppable center and playful man-child. Now the nickname belongs to Dwight Howard, nearly-unstoppable center and playful man-child. Who knew the cape would stretch for years?

8. Phil Jackson

Gotta love his style. It's different. The most accomplished coach in NBA history doesn't try to control every possession, or block the view of courtsiders for 48 minutes, or scream during timeouts. He wins championships.

7. The shot clock

Still the most important innovation the league has ever known.

6. Charles Barkley and the Smiths (Kenny and Steve)

Sir Charles is in a class by himself as an NBA entertainer. Kenny plays a good straight man. And in an era of ex-players and coaches making basketball seem like a calculus test, Steve makes the game simple and easy to understand on NBA TV.

5. David Stern

The commish hasn't lost his touch. Good thing, too. He'll need it at the negotiation table in a few years.

4. NCAA Tournament

This is still the prime talent showcase for the NBA, giving us a chance to see Who's Next.

3. Dwyane Wade

Great.

2. LeBron James

Greater.

1. Kobe Bryant

Greatest.