Sinulog Festival, Cebu City, Philippines

January 2011

The Sinulog is an annual festival held on the third Sunday of January in Cebu City, Philippines. The festival commemorates the vision of the child Jesus, known as the Sto. Nino (Holy Child),who used to be the patron Saint of the City of Cebu . It is a dance ritual that commemorates the Cebuano people's acceptance of Roman Catholic Faith. Cebu being the first to accept the Catholic faith in the Philippines. The festival features a street parade with participants in bright colored costumes dancing to the rhythm of drums and other native instruments.

Dancers in colorful costumes grace the streets swaying to the rhythm of drums and native instruments.

Let's not forget, that after all the fun and festivities. The Sinulog festival is about giving praise and thanks giving to our Lord and Savior. 

Magellans Cross, Cebu City

January 2011

Magellan's Cross is located inside a chapel just outside of the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, just in front of the City Hall of Cebu. Magellan's Cross is a Christian cross planted by Portuguese, and Spanish explorers as ordered by Ferdinand Magellan upon arriving in Cebu in the Philippines on April 8, 1521.

An inscription below the cross describes that the original cross is encased inside the wooden cross that is found in the center of the chapel. Magellan's Cross is a symbol of Cebu.It is also seen as the symbol of Roman Catholicism in the Philippines.

The chapel is normally open to the public for viewing during regular days. However, it was closed during our visit since this was during the Sinulog Festival to preserve the cleanliness and integrity of the Cross.

Kawasan Falls, Cebu Philippines

January 2011

Located in Brgy. Badian Cebu City, Kawasan Falls is a truly a wonder of nature famous among locals and frequented by tourists. Consisting of 3 water falls, Kawasan Falls is an ideal nature destination for family and friends. A variety of flora and fauna can be seen along the trail. For an entrance fee of Php 10 you can enjoy the wonders of nature.

Marvel at the wonders and beauty of nature.

The 1st waterfall, is the most frequently visited falls as it is the easiest to access as you would mostly be trekking on flat land. Take a dip on the cool and clear water.  Ride a bamboo raft and take a relaxing "waterfall" massage.

For Php 200 you could rent a picnic table beside the falls, where you and your friends could have a picnic and a good conversation while enjoying the view.  However, please be mindful of your trash and pick-up after your finished.  Cottages are also available for rent for people who would want to stay for the night.

The 2nd waterfall is as stunning as the 1st one.  However, a little effort is required in reaching it as you would need to climb over rocks.  I'd say the trip is worth it and a little more exercise is good for the body. Reaching the 3rd and last falls, would require a lot of effort and not recommended if your travelling with small children and carrying heavy loads as the trek is much more steeper and would require you to cross over bamboo bridges.  However, it's a recommended activity for those who desire to experience a bit more adventure.

Do something different and ride floaters made from the interior of truck wheels and go down the river.

Hotel Fortuna, Cebu City

January 2011

Hotel Fortuna, Located at #26 Borromeo St., Cebu City Phils. location wise, is an ideal place to stay
whenever you are in Cebu City. Found within the vicinity of downtown Cebu, Hotel Fortuna is just a few blocks away from The Basilica de Sto. Nino. Ideal to stay in during the Sinulog Festival as the parade usually passes in from of the Hotel. Better to book in December so you could choose a room with a view facing the streets and afford of cheaper rates as prices tend to increase during January.

Let's face it, You won't be going to Cebu just to stay in your room all day. The rooms should be enough if your just looking for a place to stay during your visit to Cebu. However, It could use a little

improvement. Be specific when booking a room and accommodation's as apparently Internet access (both wired and wireless) is limited to certain floors and rooms only. Food is okay, however, you could still go out and buy your food outside as there are a lot of establishments near the area. Water is (both hot and cold) is unlimited, You just have to get it from the dispenser at the end of the corridor.

Overall, Hotel Fortuna is still a recommended place to stay as the rates are affordable and the location

is very strategic. Whatever, Hotel Fortuna lacks in facility the staff are always willing to make for in

service.

Enchanted Kingdom

September 2010

Enchanted Kingdom a theme park located at RSBS Blvd., San Lorenzo South, Balibago,Santa Rosa City, Laguna, Philippines. Enchanted Kingdom is the countries own version of Disney Land, a mixture of rides, games, specialized theme zones, shows, entertainment and souvenir shops. Usually packed full during the holidays, families usually come in droves to enjoy the park and sit together to watch the fireworks display which is generally the highlight of the days activities. Enchanted Kingdom is a definite must see for families who want to bond together and enjoy the facilities and attractions of the theme park.

 
 
 
 

Blast-off aboard the Space Shuttle....



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Be like Schumie on the race track...

Go Speed Racer...Go Speed Racer... Go...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shoot the Rapids at Rio Grande Rapids...

Please bring an extra set of clothing as this ride is designed to water you down...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Or you could enjoy the kiddie play area...









From December 21 - January 2, 2011 (Weekend rate applies)


Regular Day Pass: Php 500.00

Descriptions: Enjoy unlimited use of all the Park’s rides: Space Shuttle, Jungle Log Jam, Swan Lake, Up, Up & Away, Roller Skater, Dodgem, Wheel of Fate, Anchors Away, Bump n’ Splash, Rialto, Rio Grande Rapids, Flying Fiesta, Grand Carousel, Bumbling Boulders, Boulderville Express, Air Petrodactyl, Stone Eggs, and Dinosoarus.


Junior Day Pass: Php 320.00

Descriptions: Applicable to children between 36” to 47” tall. Children 35” and under are FREE. Enjoy unlimited use of all the Park’s rides: Space Shuttle, Jungle Log Jam, Swan Lake, Up, Up & Away, Roller Skater, Dodgem, Wheel of Fate, Anchors Away, Bump n’ Splash, Rialto, Rio Grande Rapids, Flying Fiesta, Grand Carousel, Bumbling Boulders, Boulderville Express, Air Pterodactyl, Stone Eggs, and Dinosoarus.


Carousel Special Ticket: Php 150.00

Descriptions: Free admission to the park grounds and unlimited access to the Grand Carousel, Bumbling Boulders, and Boulderville Express.

Senior Day Pass: Php 400.00

Senior Carousel Special: Php 120.00


From January 3 - January 7, 2011

Weekday rate: Php 400.00
Weekend/Holiday Rate : Php 500.00