By Nathan Allen

I didn’t request it, but the staff even cleaned my room twice in one day! Each time, they left personalized notes and small treats. The restaurant staff showed the same level of dedication and professionalism. Special touches like this do not go unnoticed.

Plus, just take a look at that beachfront! Another award for best beach of any of my hotel stays.

The resort feels quite different that others I’ve visited in the Philippines. It’s situated on a wide open property covered with bermuda grass and perfectly-spaced coconut trees. I kind of felt like I was Magnum P.I. in Hawaii ( I used to watch the show as a kid:) 

I loved the giant, super-comfy hammocks and swings you can relax in (You can see me in one further down the page). 

Everything You Need – All In One Place

Bohol Beach Club is located on Panglao Island, but a few kms away from the hustle and bustle of Alona Beach. However, I felt there really is enough to offer here on the property…unlike some other places I’ve stayed, I never got anxious to explore outside of the resort.

It’s perfect for people with kids, but also large enough to provide space for the people who don’t always appreciate them. Haha.

If you make the effort to wake up for sunrise, you will not be disappointed! It’s directly in front of the beach, and it was one of the best I’ve ever seen.

Check Bohol Beach Club rates.

Diving With Bohol Beach Club

This was truly a memorable experience…if you want to learn, I recommend doing a Discovery Dive with Edgar, the local dive master. He does a great job explaining everything and helping you to feel comfortable. You will practice in the safety of the swimming pool before graduating to the beautiful, blue sea out front.

On my way to dive near Pamilacan Island, we spotted dolphins…and I don’t mean just a few. There must have been hundreds out there! It’s no wonder the dolphin watching tour is so popular. Unfortunately, like an idiot, I forgot to use my zoom lens to capture some nice photos.

There are also snorkeling / diving trips to Balicasag Island, which is known for incredible corals and sea turtle sightings.

Pictures From the Restaurant & Property – Bohol Beach Club Review

If you visit the Philippines, you have to try a mango shake! The country is famous for its mangoes. In general, I’d say the food at Bohol Beach Club was a solid 8.5/10. Pizza was pretty good, but the burger and calamares were excellent!

Philippine Cultural Performance

This was another highlight of my stay, and certainly something that sets Bohol Beach Club apart from other properties. Growing up, whenever somebody would go on vacation in Hawaii, they would bring home photos and videos of the native Luau (dinner and dance presentation).

As I’ve explored the Philippines, I’ve found that there is so much wonderful native culture and heritage as well, but it receives very little attention. Therefor, it was refreshing to see these dancers wowing the audience with their gracious smiles and traditional attire. The Filipinos in the audience seemed to be beaming with pride, and that made me smile.

I commend Bohol Beach Club for putting this together!

Overall, this was probably the best proper vacation I’ve ever had. If I were to nitpick, my only complaint would be too much pressure coming from the shower in my room. Haha, usually people complain about not enough pressure:) The bottom line is, no, Bohol Beach Club did not disappoint.

Allan, the General Manager, is truly a class act. I watched him personally check on his guests each and every day. He was a very attentive and accommodating host, but without being intrusive in the slightest. The mark of a true professional!

I’m thankful for the opportunity to share this experience with my readers. I was impressed, but you don’t have to take my word for it, read the reviews for yourself:)

Check Bohol Beach Club rates.

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– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share!

Related Blogs: Meet Bohol, the Philippines’ Sun-Kissed Island Paradise

Goodbye, Gopro…I Finally Review the TG-4 Underwater Camera in the Philippines

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By Nathan Allen

1st Stop in Southern Leyte – Peter’s Dive Resort

When Peter’s Dive Resort sent me an invite to come and experience the region for myself, I jumped at the chance. Fascinating corals and thousands of colorful fish lied in wait just below the surface…and that was just the snorkeling…

On a beautiful day, our boat “set sail” out on the open sea. Next stop, Napantao Dive sanctuary on Panaon Island – just across Sogod Bay from Peter’s Dive Resort.

Napantao Dive Sanctuary

We anchored the boat about 10 meters from a rugged, coconut tree lined beach. After the divemaster pointed me to the best corals, I put my life vest, mask and snorkel on and swam out.

Full disclosure: I joined a group of Peace Corps Volunteers who were all diving, but I just snorkeled on this trip.

Snorkeling over Surreal Coral Landscapes

Just off the beach where we docked, I found the coral garden above while snorkeling in about 2-3 meters of water. Pretty cool!  They kind of remind me of flowers. I wonder if anybody knows the name of this type of corals? I have had no luck in my research so far…

I have snorkeled all over the Philippines, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen this many fish. They were small, but neon blue…and shimmering beautifully in the sunlight above. I also took a photo of a unique brain coral tucked away in a coral “cubby hole”. Never seen anything like it.

I also stumbled upon a massive group of Clownfish. Must have been 30 + in one location! I’ve seen a lot of clownfish in the Philippines, but never more than 3 or 4 in one place. I wonder if this was a breeding site, or what?

Feeling the after affects of my strenuous rifr around Leyte, after about 40 minutes in the water I was tired, cold, and hungry. Luckily, back on the beach,  the team was preparing lunch with fresh caught fish grilling over a fire. The problem was that the wood was moist, and not so easy to burn.

Here’s comes good ol’ Filipino ingenuity to save the day….a dive instructor borrowed one of my fins to fan the flames!

Totally worked.

There was much more to the meal than just fish…we had a full spread with rice, veggies, and even chicken, I think. We definitely didn’t go hungry, I’ll tell you that much. This was a pretty good intro to to snorkeling and diving in southern Leyte, but the next day I was super excited to join a boat trip to Limasawa island, to the south.

Limasawa Island Dive Site

The weather on the first day was a bit cloudy, which put a damper on my photography – both above and below the water. The Limasawa trip was much better, though. Beautiful, sunny day out on the water!

I noticed in southern Leyte the local fishermen wear conical hats, similar to the ones worn in Vietnam. I know they do a good job keeping the sun of your head, but I didn’t see them worn anywhere else in the country, so it makes me wonder if there’s a story behind them.

These fishermen were pretty curious about me taking pictures. At one point they started waiving their paddle in the air to get my attention for a shot! Haha.

Limasawa Island (which means “5 Wives” in Filipino) is supposedly the site of the very first Catholic mass in the Philippines, undertaken by father Pedro de Valderrama, sailing with the fleet of the explorer Ferdinand Magellan.

Anyhow, the island itself is just stunning. We weren’t able to get off the boat and climb up to the marker cross on the hill (I read about it), but the turquoise sea and white sand beaches dotting the island were just beautiful.

(continued below, but I do hope you’ll consider following along with me…)

Coral Reef + Fish @ Limasawa Snorkeling Site

This was one of the more colorful and fascinating coral formations I came across. If you’re wondering, I took all these photos with my underwater camera, the Olympus TG-5 (That link is for Lazada, Asia). The Amazon link is HERE

(More photos)

I wish I knew more about the fish and coral species, so I could share the names with you. If you know, please leave a comment! I know I saw some nice table corals  + other hard corals…as well as some beautiful soft corals, and even a Banded Sea Krait (snake)!

They are highly venomous, but also highly harmless…haha. They pretty much ignore you. If you were unlucky enough to step on one you could *possibly* get bit. Even then, apparently they don’t always release their venom. Beautiful creatures, in any case.

These last 2 photos are my favorites from this snorkeling trip. Above is a male clownfish protecting his nest in a beautifully sunlit anemone.

Below…I have no idea what this leopard-patterned fish is called. I’m hoping somebody can tell me. It’s the first one I’ve ever seen…so striking! I think it’s some kind of a bottom feeder. * I just found out that this could be a Leopard Blenny…or some other type of blenny perhaps? I wonder if any of you have any ideas?

How To Get To Southern Leyte

You can take flights from Cebu or Manila to the smaller airports of Tacloban or Ormoc (that one’s further away). If you’re a bit flexible with schedule, you might find a great deal on a promo flight from Cebu Pacific Air. There are also fast ferries departing from Cebu (about a 3 hour trip) + a 45 minute bus transfer to the Resort.

If you’re adventurous, you could rent a car or motorbike from Haven’s transport in Tacloban and drive yourself!

Big thanks to Shelani and the Peter’s Dive Resort team! As a lot of dive resorts tend to be,  it’s pretty simple…but a good value with top notch food & service. Plus, the snorkeling and diving was fantastic. Definitely recommended.

Be sure to check out my other Leyte posts, too…

My Massive Motorbike Trip Around Leyte Province

Stunning Kalanggaman Island & Sandbar

A Tacloban City & Restaurant Tour – Leyte, Philippines

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share!

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The post Snorkeling & Diving in Padre Burgos – Leyte, Philippines appeared first on I Dreamed Of This.

By Nathan Allen

This is Marzio, an Italian who married a Filipina from Romblon. Together they operate JD&G Italian Restaurant in Romblon Town. Here, Marzio is making his way into the water so we can snorkel and explore the fascinating underwater world of Agpanabat Marine Sanctuary.

It took us a while to swim out to the corals, but we were handsomely rewarding once we did. Check out these intricate formations in about 2 meters of water…

This sanctuary was declared as a nesting site for endangered Hawksbill sea turtles, but we were not fortunate to see any. I hear that sightings are becoming rare.

Let’s hope that this is because they are nesting somewhere else, and not because they have been hunted or have died off. Anyhow, I quite enjoyed photographing the marine life around the sanctuary.

Below you’ll see…wait…is that a sea turtle? The funny thing is that I did not notice it until afterward when I was looking through my photos. I think it’s just an optical illusion, but it certainly does look like a turtle, right?

Anyhow, in this picture you’ll notice a very unique feature about this coral system – it has space underneath, kind of like a cave! It almost seems like the corals are floating just above the sea floor. I’ve really never seen anything quite like it.

Here are more detailed corals and underwater landscapes. Below I spotted a lone clownfish, guarding his young above its home in an anemone.

Perhaps along with Triggerfish, I call Clownfish the “Pitbulls of the sea”. They don’t care how big you are, they will swim right up to you and try to scare you away.

This one even bit my mask a few times. Good thing he’s only 25cm long, instead of 1 meter!

By the way, I took all these underwater photos with my Olympus TG-4. You can find the new model (in Asia) on Lazada HERE.

Perhaps due to overfishing or other environmental factors, there’s not a large number of fish here. However, I did see a pretty big school of the species above. I think they might be Butterfly fish, but I wonder if anybody has an idea? They seemed to be curious about me.

Snorkeling Tips

Sunscreen: If you’re going to wear sunscreen, please apply it at least 15 minutes before going in the sea. It’s best if you can apply it in a cool place, so that you don’t sweat it off right away. The chemical oxybenzone is found in many brands of sunscreen, and it can damage coral reefs. You can try “Safe Block”, which can be found in the Philippines. Also, some sunscreens made for kids seems to be OK. I use Banana Boat Kids SPF 50.

Life Vest: The best corals are in 2+ meters of water, so you need to be a strong swimmer, or wear  a life vest. I travel with an inflatable life vest – it helps me stay still at the top of the water for long periods while I photograph the corals.

WHO TO CONTACT:

It is advisable to bring your own gear for snorkeling and swimming here. However, there is a chance that Rose @ Reggae Vibes (see below) may have something for you to borrow. She can also provide you with more information about not only the sanctuary, but also Romblon island in general.

Reggae Vibes De Isla Romblon

Right next to Agpanabat Turtle Sanctuary, you’ll find this native-style / hippy homestay & Restaurant. Full disclosure: I did not stay here, but it looks really eclectic & cool! I did meet Rose, the owner. She was very kind, and seems to be involved with some good environmental advocacies. She also offers meals that are quite good.

She may have a snorkel and mask you can use for the sanctuary, but in remote places like this, it’s always best to be prepared with your own, just in case. Contact her with any questions HERE

(Reggae Vibes De Isla Romblon photos)

(Continued below, but I do hope you’ll consider following along with me…)

How To Get There

Check my general Romblon Island post for more info on how to get to this region of the Philippines. Once on the island of Romblon, you just need to find transportation to barangay (neighborhood) Agpanabat, on the southern tip of the island. It’s about 18kms from town (along the coast).

I’m really not sure if a trike will bring you all the way here, though I think anything is possible for the right price I would guess a trike ride should be 450-600 pesos, perhaps.

You can also rent a motorbike directly from Marzio at his restaurant, JD&G Italian Food in Romblon Town proper.

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share!

 Related Links

 Romblon Island by Motorbike – A Road Trip in the Heart of the Philippines

My Olympus TG-4 underwater camera review

Stunning Bonbon Beach, Romblon Island, Philippines

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By Nathan Allen

Antique Province – “Where The Mountains Meet The Sea”

(Scroll down if you want to go directly to Antique hotels and attractions)

About a year ago I was researching new places to explore in the Philippines.  I came across a photo of Filipino blogger Melo Villareal “cooking” in giant pot. It was in a little-known province called Antique, and from then on, I knew I had to see this place for myself!

Found south of Boracay on the western side of Panay Island, the sleepy province of Antique provides many opportunities for adventure and relaxation – and all off the beaten path. 

While the province has some pretty good beaches, that’s not where Antique really shines – it’s more about the lush mountains, rice fields, cascading waterfalls, and warm smiles from the people that call it home. 

Oh yeah, that, and the unique experience of being “cooked” in a hot KAWA bath!  In truth, it’s very relaxing after a good hike and chilly swim in Bugtong Bato Falls:)

 (Some of my favorite photos from Antique)

One of my favorite things about Antique is that it spans the the whole west coast of Panay island, so there are so many opportunities to photograph beautiful sunsets.  Walking barefoot in the mud with a stunning sunset over the rice paddies – that was was something I’ll never forget!  I also loved how affordable food and accommodations were, and the fact that for some reason, mosquitoes in Antique don’t find me very delicious!  Ohh how I loved that…anyhow, here is the story of Antique and I…

“Kkkruhayyyy!!!” my local guide Flord enthusiastically yells out upon my arrival.  The language here is called “Kinaray-a”, and kruhay means welcome. 

Then he handed me a packed schedule of activities for the next three days of filming.  Wait…filming? 

It turns out ABS CBN’s “Rated K” crew was covering Antique   on the same weekend, and they wanted to use footage of me exploring as well.  I was hesitant at first, but life is like a river, I say…so you just go with the flow. 

The next morning we began touring the province to meet and dine with many of the provincial mayors.  I want to thank all of them for their warmth and hospitality!  We were even treated to a musical performance in one of their homes.

Later we attended a lively singing performance called “Istorya-Kanta Kinaray-a”.  I was so happy that these two talented singers are working hard to promote and preserve the local Karay-a culture.  The colorful young dancers added a nice dimension to the experience as well. 

Kinaray-a is a fascinating language – and it’s quite descriptive!  One very interesting example is how they have 3 different names for male and female genitalia – depending on the age and development stage of the person in question!  Kinaray-a is also one of the only Filipino languages I know of that has uses a “schwa” vowel sound.  An example is the Cebuano word ‘hubog’, which in Kinaray-a would be pronounced “hubug” – except the “u” is pronounced like the English words “hug” or “bug”. 

Kayaking and Hiking To Bugtong Bato Falls

Tibiao is known for its exciting eco-adventure park.  The Tibiao River offers kayaking at all skill levels.  After a brief kayaking session, I took a swim in the river to cool off.  Then I explored the surrounding area a bit and met some very friendly locals.

After all the kayaking footage was finished, we began the beautiful, brief trek to Bugtong Bato Falls. 

The trail starts in the village of Tuno, where our presence cause many curious smiles.  The scenery on the way to the falls was just stunning. Shown here are some rice terraces we passed along the way. Note: There are some other beautiful rice terraces that I didn’t have a chance to explore. Ask the locals!

We arrived at the falls, but had lunch  waiting for us at Bugtong Bato Falls Inn (formerly Peter’s Lodge).  I was so happy to finally have good Filipino food after being away in the States for so long! 

Afterward, they filmed members of our group repelling down the falls, and I took a swim in the chilly water.  Then I was finally ready for a soak in the hot kawa!  What a day – and what a beautiful place!

Boat Trip To Malalison Island

Malalison (also known as Mararison) island is part of Culasi, and is just a short boat ride away. 

We boarded the boat before sunrise, and first made our way toward far away Seco Island (in the process of being rehabilitated). 

We hit some rain and rough water on the way.  I fell asleep, but when I woke up, the skies had cleared up and the perfectly calm water looked like glass! 

To add to the magic of the moment, flying fish began to shoot out of the water and soar through the sky – I’ve never seen them before!

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There are a few pretty good snorkeling sections with corals and fish.  I saw a very large puffer fish, some clownfish, and a few lionfish, which was a first for me.   Ask the locals where the best places to snorkel are.  You will need to bring your own snorkel, mask, and fins.

The children of Malalison island (Culasi) are just adorable.  They love to sing – and in fact prepared a special Karay-a (local language)  version of the Frozen song “Let It Go” for us!  A few of them took me on a hike over the of of the island. If you are familiar with Batanes island, Malalison has dry, grassy hills that are a bit similar.  It seems quite uncharacteristic for this region of the Philippines. 

On the hike, I also noticed “pitcher plants“, which are fascinating insect-eating plants!  Since I was a kid, I always wanted to see one in real life.  I really loved the experience of being on this humble little island.

Again, Malalison Island can be reached via a brief boat trip from Culasi.  Ask the boat men on the beach, or use the contact info mentioned later.

Lambaklad Fishing in Tibiao

I almost skipped Lambaklad fishing, but I’m so glad I didn’t…just look at what an incredible experience this was! 

The name Lambaklad come from the word for “net” (lambat) and “fish corral” (baklad). 

You can join the fisherman very early in the morning, or at 3pm in the afternoon. 

The tradition is to leave your tsinelas (flip flops) on the beach, wash your feet in the water, then board the giant bamboo raft.  e words lambat (net) and baklad (fish corral).

As the name suggests, there is a large corral and net under the water.  As far as I know, the fisherman slowly pull the net in, which brings the raft toward the fish, and pushes them into net. 

Afterward, the fisherman take their share, and the rest is bought after a negotiation.  I loved witnessing this!

Tibiao Fish Spa – Don’t forget to “feed” the fish at Tibiao Fish Spa afterward!  It is directly across the street from the beach entrance for Lambaklad fishing.  I have tried a few different fish spas now, but the experience here is much better.  The fish are not so timid, and they will really nibble away at your feet!  It tickles at first, but I got used to it very quickly.  If you are brave enough to dip your feet into the pool with the bigger fish, my advice is to not keep them in too long:) 

Trekking to Igpasungaw Falls in Sebaste

I am very independent, and when I was told that I would have guides accompanying me to Igpasungaw Falls in Sebaste, I was a bit frustrated.  

However, this hike was MUCH more challenging and confusing than I thought, so the guides were actually very much appreciated!  Go to the municipal hall in Sebaste to inquire about guides to this incredible place. 

I learned that Antique got its name from “hantik“, which is the word for the black ants which can be found on Panay. Island  Here at the falls, I put my hand down and was bitten by one! I always knew red ants bite, but I’ve never heard of black ants that do as well!  You learn something every day, they say:)

Brick & Pottery Making in Barangay Bandoja

Later I was fortunate to visit a brick making facility, and not only did I see where the clay was excavated from, but also the giant kiln which bakes the handmade bricks.   Nearby I attended a pottery demonstration as well.  You could see the fascination in her grandson’s eyes as she showed us the age-old tradition of this barangay. 

The Colorful Binirayan Festival – Dec 28th through the 30th

On a last-minute trip to Nogas island in southern Antique, I was sidetracked by bad weather and instead ended up at the colorful Binirayan Festival.  What an experience!  This was a perfect reminder that “when one door closes, another opens”.

All the cities in the province came together to compete in the capital, San Jose.  While I was quite impressed with all of the performances (I only witnessed 6, to be fair), two really caught my attention.  Caluya and Sibalom. 

Wow, they really went all out!  I was thankful to have a great view to take photos from the stage.  I was seated next to the governor, and they announced that “I Dreamed Of This” was visiting.  What an honor to be there.  This festival is technically 29 days long, because you know, it really is more fun in the Philippines!

Exploring and Snorkeling Nogas Island – Anini-y, Antique

After the festival, I finally had a chance to visit Nogas island in southern Antique.  Thanks to the local tourism officer, Mrs. Karen, I explored the famous “Kalachuchi”  flower walkway and lighthouse at the end.  The island has kubos (beach huts) you can rent, but no place to eat, sleep, or buy snacks. 

We hiked to the opposite end of the island, and on the way, experienced a fascinating rubber tree, along with unique mangrove forests along the shore. 

The snorkeling and diving here is quite underrated if you ask me!  I recommend taking a trip with The Divehouse – you can depart from the mainland in Anini-y.  There is more info about this below in the “Where To Stay” section. 

San Jose’s “Purple House” & Hanging With The Locals

What a unique “I Dreamed Of This” experience!  To say that Mrs. Violetta loves the color purple is an understatement.   She has decorated her entire house (and family) in the color purple! 

She is a very sweet lady, and once filming was finished, we were again treated to a nice meal (with purple snacks!)  Even the bedrooms, furniture, and kitchen utensils were purple! I felt like I was Alice In Wonderland. 

While here, I also had a chance to explore the surrounding barangay (neighborhood)  People were so curious to see me taking photos on the side of the road!  It was truly an unforgettable experience  to be immersed in the day-to-day life of Antiqueños! 

Where To Stay – Antique Hotels and Inns

Phaidon Beach Resort

If you are looking for a beach resort in Antique, Phaidon in Pandan is the #1 recommendation online.  Great for couples, divers, or just those looking for a peaceful alternative to the crowds of Boracay.  Staff is gracious, wifi is good, and breakfast is included.  Your money goes further in Antique. 

Book Phaidon Beach Resort HERE (Agoda) or for Booking.com, click HERE

Kayak Inn

This cheaper and more “native” alternative is located directly on the Tibiao River, and has a view of the rice fields as well.  It is the original location of the “kawa” bath, and is great for a photo op. 

Book Kayak Inn HERE

Kasa Raya Traveller’s Inn & Resto

Kasa Raya is a great budget option in Tibiao, and they recently even added aircon rooms.  Conveniently located on the main road where the junction to Tuno and Bugtong Bato Falls is.  There is a Petron station attached to the inn.  The falls are just 5km away from here.

I have to be honest, I am friends with the nice little family that runs it, but you can feel better knowing that I became friends with them by staying here:)

I like the feel that the bamboo construction gives the place.  The restaurant has a modest but solid menu with some great value options, and the budget rooms even come with breakfast! 

I was particularly impressed by the lechon manok and fried chicken.  They also serve a good brewed coffee.  The best part is that you can enjoy your meal overlooking the rice fields out back.

You can contact the owner Alex by phone here: 09175247875  I believe Kasa Raya is also listed on airbnb.com. Please say hi for me, and tell him I sent you…Alex also gives incredible personalized tours around Antique & Panay!

Zipline Inn and Bugtong Bato Falls Inn

The first photo is from Zipline Inn, which offers native-style rooms in a beautiful setting.  Zipline Inn is located on the road before you get to Tuno.  Yes, there is an actual zipline, but I’m not sure if it’s currently operating.  The rest of the photos are from Bugtong Bato Falls Inn – which is a bit more adventurous, as you have to hike in a bit to get there.  Don’t worry, it’s a mild 20 minute trek:)  Nearby the falls, they have a beautiful setting for a meal or hot kawa bath – and they have budget options as well!

The rest of the photos are from Bugtong Bato Falls Inn – which is a bit more adventurous, as you have to hike in a bit to get there.  Don’t worry, it’s a mild 20 minute trek:)  Nearby the falls, they have a beautiful setting for a meal or hot kawa bath – and they have budget options as well!

Dalaag Resort and Campsite, Dao

Dalaag Resort and Campsite is a complex under development, but the 800 square meter pool (yes, you read that correctly) and 3-story water slide is open now.  You can also rent the kubos (huts) for the day or evening.  There are many more exciting plans for this property, including the possibility of an obstacle course, zip line, and even fishing facilities!

The Divehouse – Anini-y

The Divehouse is rustic resort on the beach has been constructed in large part from reclaimed wood from old ships and sailing vessels.  I really got a sense of history from all the bits and pieces that comprise the beams and railings of the property.  I quite enjoyed taking photos of everything. 

The owner “Boy” and his cast of characters here are entertaining as well.  They are very welcoming, and a lot of fun.  The place is definitely more on the rustic side, and if you ask me, that’s what’s so charming about it – don’t come expecting an updated resort with a modern design.  You can stay overnight with all meals and 3-4 dives included.  In my opinion, Anini-y is an underrated snorkeling and diving destination!  Ask the staff where the most beautiful corals are.

There is a nice veranda with a hammock and reliable wifi if you want to stay in and relax.  Great company and freshly prepared meals cooked over an open flame – this is what it’s all about.  Also make sure to witness the locals pulling the giant nets in right from the shore – it’s called “sahid” fishing!

How To Get To Antique – Contact Info & Tours

Antique province can be reached by bus or van from Kalibo or Caticlan airports, and also by bus or van from Iloilo city.  Depending on where you are going, it can be anywhere from a 2 hour to 5 hour trip.

If you have time and are very adventurous, the region can be explored independently, and you can contact Karmila Dimamay if you need any assistance.  I recommend connecting with Alex @ Kasa Raya Traveller’s Inn for tours. He is focused on providing excellent environmentally conscious tours, and he is a great guy. Alex can be reached at phone # 09175247875

Where To Eat in Antique

• Kasa Raya Traveller’s Inn and Resto (Tibiao) – Please see the listing above.  They have some delicious and affordable options here.

• The Green Mug Coffee shop (Tibiao) – I love this place, because they have great coffee – and it’s very reasonably priced!   I never understood why “real” coffee is so expensive in the Philippines – a coffee growing country!  Haha.  Anyhow, they have Americanos for 30 pesos, and lattes for just 50.  Some very affordable food options as well!  Hidden away location, so you may have to ask the local trike drivers. 

• Tibiao Bakery – I’ve seen these around the island of Panay, but of course, the first one can be found here in Tibiao.  Worth stopping by for pastries and snacks!

• Mamma Mia Pizzeria (Tibiao) – One of the owners is Italian I hear, so the ingredients are legit.  The pizza is pretty good, but it’s a bit pricey for the region.  The pasta was very good!

• Island Choice (Culasi) – I had a very affordable pizza here, and for the money, I was quite impressed!  Also tried a buko shake, and that was good as well.  Great prices and friendly service.  Located in the city center. 

(Tip:  I think there is an international ATM in San Jose (BPI, I believe), but as far as I know, there are no others around Antique. You might want to get cash in Iloilo, Caticlan, or Boracay if you are a foreigner)

Goodbye, Antique – My Home Away From Home

I felt so comfortable there, and I have a feeling I’ll be returning over the years.  I’d like to thank Flord + Katahum, Karmila Dimamay, and Alex de Moscoso+family for all the hospitality and help during my stay.  Like I mentioned at the start, while there are a few decent resorts here, this province is really great for the off-the-beaten-path adventures – the ones who want to roll up their sleeves and get dirty trekking to a stunning waterfall, or be invited to an impromptu dinner with a rice farmer and his family.  

Antique may have been over-hyped a bit in the past, but as long you’re realistic about what to expect, I think you’ll love it.  If you go and experience some of my recommendations, please give me your feedback! I will update info in my listing if needed. 

Thank you for an incredible, unforgettable experience, Antique.

Hope to see you again soon!

 Like the “I Dreamed Of This” page below to follow along.

– Nathan Allen

The post Explore Antique, Philippines – The Land of Cool Waterfalls and Hot Kawa Baths appeared first on I Dreamed Of This.

By Nathan Allen

It Felt Like Christmas When This Camera Arrived in the Mail!

I did a lot of research on underwater cameras before purchasing the TG-3. People had great things to say about it, but I wasn’t prepared for just how much fun it would be to play with!

From the second I pulled it out of the box, I started experimenting with shallow depth-of-field shots (it has a 2.0 aperture lens), and taking microscopic photos of water drops on flowers in my backyard.

I initially bought it for extreme macro and underwater photography, but I must admit, in general, I probably use the camera much more often than I should. With the addition of the wide angle lens I purchased, my Sony DSLR (with a much higher quality sensor) now sits on the shelf gathering dust.

TG-3 Sample Images – Right Out Of The Box

I do love using Adobe Lightroom for post-processing, but all the photos on this page are untouched. I wanted you to see what the camera is capable of on its own…of course, the JPGs are compressed for Internet use, so the originals are even better.

For those that think a 2.8 lens is good in low-light situations, wait until you play with a 2.0 lens! You can easily shoot in dimly-lit bars, clubs, or sunset environments…with no flash.

As you can see, the camera was perfect to take with me on vacation in the Philippines. I attached the strap to a carabiner, so that the camera could lock onto my belt loop. Then I would go kayaking or shooting with my DSLR, and the TG-3 was always within reach!

Honestly, I love the piece of mind that comes with having this camera. There is almost nothing you can do to harm it! Haha. I have really punished it as well. Still powers up and shoots flawlessly.

So Why Did I Choose an Olympus Underwater Camera?

Yes, there are a lot of options out there….but for me it was all about the versatility. The camera isn’t tiny, but it will fit in a loose jean pocket, and that means I can have a great macro camera with me at all times. The lens and processing time are quite fast, and there are so many features that are a blast to play with. I planned on doing a lot of underwater photography on my vacation, so the large LCD screen was a big plus for me. I’m not big on video (though the video capabilities are not bad, I must admit).

Get INSANELY Close – Focus is Never a Problem

I got hooked on the idea of having a small macro-enabled camera years back when I had a Canon Powershot. That model wasn’t even particularly expensive, but I LOVED how close I could get to my subjects with it. That was just a 3MP camera I believe…the TG-3 is a 16MP, and the minimum focusing distance is downright unbelievable. I thought a reviewer was joking when he said to keep the lens clean, because the camera with actually focus on the dirt on the lens (perfectly), and not your subject. I was shocked to learn this is true!

As you can see, the possibilities are endless with the TG-3!

Beautiful Underwater Filters

Personally, I got very used to shooting with an LCD screen, so having an underwater camera that wouldn’t let me compose my shots just wasn’t an option.

The combination of the screen + the fast lens is perfect below the surface. You don’t always have the best lighting down there.  I especially like that I can keep the wide angle lens in my pocket and put it on underwater when I need to capture landscape shots!

Honestly, at first I felt like the red TG-3 option was kind of ugly, but the black model was sold out, and I needed to leave for my trip…so red it was. Now I love the red one, and can’t imagine it being black! Go figure. Haha.

Anyhow, the red color may have saved me, because I actually left the camera and selfie stick on the seabed once while I put my fins on (in only 1.5 meters of water). I swam about 12 away before I realized what I had done! I went back in a straight line, and was lucky to see the shiny red camera off in the distance….whew! I’m not sure I could have found it if I ordered the black version. I was about 20 meters from the shore.

Purchasing a TG-3

*Update, the TG-4 has now come out, and it’s basically identical to the TG-3. One important difference is that you have the option to shoot in a more professional quality RAW format. There are a few other new processing features as well.

Ordering the TG-4 from Amazon (Red or Black Color versions) : Olympus TG-4 16 MP Waterproof Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD (Red)

If you want the attachable Wide Angle Lens, you must order it through Amazon in the US: Olympus Fisheye Tough Lens Pack (lens and adapter) for TG-1, TG-2, and TG-3 Cameras (Black with Red Adapter)

I haven’t tried it, but the reviews are pretty good…the Telephoto Lens option increases the reach 7X, and must be purchased through Amazon in the U.S: Olympus Telephoto Tough Lens Pack (lens and adapter) for TG-1, TG-2, and TG-3 Cameras (Black with Red Adapter)

Thanks for reading!

*Visiting links on this page will help me create more content like this. I am not connected to this company and I paid for this gear myself.

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By Nathan Allen

Welcome To Moalboal!

When traveling all over the Philippines in 2013, I stayed on the island of Cebu for 2 months…but had NO idea such an incredible place was just a short bus ride away.
 
Over the course of that year, I heard a few travelers rave about the town of Moalboal…but words alone could never do this place justice!  Once I saw it with my own eyes, I finally understood.   It’s magical – This photo was actually taken snorkeling just meters from the beach!

No matter what your skill level is as a diver or snorkeler, Moalboal makes stunning undersea life accessible to all. I used my Olympus TG-3 point-and-shoot camera to capture the following images in January, 2015. Enjoy!

(Snorkeling Photos)

Swimming With the Famous”Sardine Run”

Again, words could not prepare me for the experience of being in the water with a school of over a MILLION fish…dancing and darting together  in what appears to be shimmering choreography (VIDEO).
 
It’s fascinating how similar their movements are to massive flocks of birds, such as starlings.

The sardines used to be found off the coast of nearby Pescadero Island, but at the time of writing, they can be seen just meters from the shore  – right in “downtown” Moalboal!
 
Some people find it intimidating to be in the water with so many fish…not me.  I was completely in awe.  This ranks as one of my TOP 5 mind-blowing experiences ever!

They are completely harmless, just enjoy – you’ll never forget it!

Boat Trip to Dive and Snorkel at Pescador Island

Just a quick boat trip from the shore is Pescador island, and here you will find incredible corals and plenty of small, colorful fish. 

Both of these locations are unique to me, because you can snorkel over plenty of sea life in the shallow water, but at a certain point there is a steep drop-off into the deep blue abyss.  Only divers can appreciate the beautiful reef wall at that point.  The snorkeling here was just fantastic, so I can only imagine how great the diving must be. 

(Snorkeling Photos)

Even though I was just snorkeling, as you can see, I saw a wide variety of sea life…including turtles, sea snakes, starfish and eels. 

Below is the reef wall I was talking about.  Even from the surface, it’s clear how much there is to see if you’re able to dive further down.  There are no sharks or real dangers in the water, but one thing to watch out for are the tiny jellyfish that float near the surface. 

Their stings are only mildly irritating, but still worth avoiding if possible.  Jellyfish are mostly transparent, so it’s not always so easy to see them!

Preserving Species – But Also a Way of Life

Really, I was quite impressed with Moalboal.  All I could think the whole time I was there was “we have to protect this“.  You see, I have explored corals and reefs in other parts of the Philippines, and the damage from overfishing and (even more tragically) dynamite fishing was heartbreaking.

This method of fishing destroys everything in its path, and prevents fishermen from being able to feed their families and the communities into the future.

A great solution is to try and help these fishermen make the transition to environmentally responsible tourism, so that the marine life can be preserved and appreciated for generations to come. 

On top of that, the fish populations will return over time, and as long as these waters are harvested responsibly, local communities will be able to sustain themselves well into the future.  I hope some Filipinos reading this might be inspired to help bring these changes about!

Myself, I was inspired by Sam (pictured snorkeling in the album above), a very passionate and concerned British dive instructor at Quo Vadis Resort.  He helped educate me about some of these illegal fishing practices, as well as gave me hope when he explained how the reefs can be rehabilitated if given the chance. 

TIP: Anywhere you swim, snorkel, or dive, please be careful to not touch or step on any corals (aqua shoes are recommended, because there are sea urchins as well).  If you keep your fins up as you swim, you’ll also avoid doing any accidental damage.

Quo Vadis Dive Resort – My Home Above The Water

I want to thank the good people at Quo Vadis Dive Resort, not only for a great stay while I was there in Moalboal, but also for helping to care for these reefs – they truly are one of the world’s treasures. 

Quo Vadis (located on Panagsama Beach), is run by a Swedish man, his Filipina wife (she owned the place when they married), and their extended family.  They are very warm and gracious people, and do a great job taking care of their guests. 

The resort is quite reasonably priced, and is tucked away from the noise and activity of the bars and restaurants further down the beach.  They will happily meet all of your diving, snorkeling, and swimming needs.  By the way, you can snorkel directly in front of the place! 

I’m a big Beatles fan, and they got me right in the heart when I heard one of my favorite songs playing in the restaurant.  It turns out that Sam is a big fan as well!  Here are some pictures below…

 (Quo Vadis Photos)

You can review your options or book a room HERE

Tell them I said hi!

How To Get To Moalboal

It’s simple, really.  Just take a 2 hour bus to Moalboal from Cebu City, Cebu.  The locals will be very helpful – everybody speaks English!  Enjoy your stay in this unforgettable place. 

I said it before and I’ll say it again…you don’t just go to the Philippines for a holiday, you go for the ADVENTURE of a lifetime!

– Nathan Allen

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By Nathan Allen

I knew the Philippines was a popular diving destination, but what I didn’t knowwas that you can take an adventure cruise there as well.

Yes, going on a cruise, scuba diving, andseeing the iconic limestone cliffs of Coron are 3 things I’ve always dreamed of doing. I never thought I could do it all in just 3 days, though!

I took most of these photos on a trip with Discovery Palawan. Get ready to change your diapers, kiddos…it’s time to fall in love with the Philippines.

To be honest, the thought of being on a “liveaboard” cruise ship for many days made me a bit nervous. Would I get seasick? All the equipment and diving procedures were intimidating as well. Our bodies have this natural desire to…you know…stay alive, so when you start actually breathing underwater, it takes some work to convince your brain that everything’s going to be OK. Haha.

1st Stop – Diving at Apo Reef Natural Park

Well I was determined to live these dreams. Our cruise departed from Batangas, which is about 2.5 hours south of Manila. On the way to Palawan, we were going to stop at Apo Reef Natural Park, Mindoro. This place has some of the best dive sites in the Philippines, and I was excited that I would have my very first dive there!

I’m happy to report that I had zero problems with seasickness…and learning to dive was both easy and fun! Our instructors did a great job making all the technical stuff easy to understand…plus reassuring us that proper diving is an incredibly safe and rewarding experience.

Honestly, I felt comfortable very quickly…and I was amazed by Apo Reef’s stunning underwater world. Divers, there is an incredible Tubbataha Reef cruise as well!  Now, onward to Coron…

Apo Island’s beautiful beach and lighthouse (photos)

Coron, Palawan – The Stuff DREAMS Are Made Of

Can you believe this place!!? They had to pinch me so I knew it was real. The best part was that our cruise ship arrived before the crowds of tourists – so we had it all to ourselves!

I made a joke about hiding behind the rocks here…so the boat would leave and I could stay forever!

Swimming in Kayangan Lake, Coron

From this lagoon, you can hike over to the brackish waters of Kayangan Lake. At first I thought there wouldn’t be much to see underwater here, so I didn’t bother snorkeling. Big mistake…

When I noticed all the fascinating rock “cathedrals” below the surface, I went back for my mask and snorkel. Cool, huh? There also some friendly “needle” fish – they are harmless, and don’t seem to mind people much. If you’re a diver, you can choose to explore Barracuda Lake instead.

Underwater Photos From Coron

On my very first dive at Apo Reef, I saw a wide variety of colorful corals and fish. Sea turtles often make appearances, and I even saw a few (harmless) sharks! Haha…I was so excited. I really wished I had my camera, but at least I got to take these shots in Coron…

This school of Jack Fish was swimming right near the beach at Club Paradise.

Snorkeling @ Siete Pecados, and a Shipwreck!

I’ll never forget seeing my first shipwreck…it was submerged in about 12 meters of water, so I could still see it while I took pictures from the surface. Coron is famous for WWII wreck diving. Next time I hope to be fully certified to dive, so I can really take advantage of all this cruise has to offer!

As always, I used my Olympus TG-4 underwater camera for these pictures:) If you snorkel here, please remember to keep your fins up, and avoid any contact with corals. Touching them is not only harmful to you, but the corals as well. Hopefully these incredible places will be preserved for many more generations.

Discovery Dive #2 @ Club Paradise

Our final stop was Club Paradise Resort. It really is the quintessential “island getaway”! I felt like I was in a movie when I was there. By the time I did my second Discovery dive, I never wanted to leave. Aside from being the perfect place to relax, dive, or even play the piano (seriously), the island also has some fascinating wildlife if you hike around a bit!

Explorers might see giant bats called “flying foxes” roosting in the trees, and monitor lizards that are only slightly smaller than their relatives – Komodo Dragons! Don’t worry though, if you don’t want to find them, they won’t find you

Our (Small But Mighty) Cruise Ship

Just like some of the colorful staff on board, our ship itself had quite a story to tell. It was built in Holland, and was previously named “The Hans Christian Andersen”, after the famous Danish fairy tale author. How fitting, because I myself have Danish ancestry, and there is a Hans Christian Andersen quote that sums up my experience on this cruise perfectly:

“Life itself is the most wonderful fairy tale.”

Yes, sometimes, life really seems too good to be true. 

The service, food, and accommodations on this ship were truly top-notch. I hear this is the most comfortable and stable liveaboard ship in the Philippines, and I don’t doubt that for a minute. Also, can you imagine sitting down for dinner – with a sunset view like the one below? Just one of many reasons why I will never forget this experience.

FYI, some of the guests brought their children on this cruise. There are plenty of things to do, for divers and non-divers alike. Options include kayaking, island hopping, and various other beach activities. Again, this is an adventure cruise…on a more intimate ship than the giant vacation cruises.

Contact Info For Discovery Fleet Palawan

I’d like to thank Discovery Fleet for the opportunity to share this experience with my readers. Also Melo Villareal, Yvette, Chester, Colin…and the new friends I made along the way:) 3 bucket list achievements unlocked!

For inquiries, please call Yvette Lee: (+632) 519 5674-76 loc. 328

Pricing and more information: www.discoveryfleet.com

For convenience, consider a stay at Discovery Suites in Metro Manila. That’s where the van to Batangas picks you up, and it’s quite nice.

Oh, and check out this EPIC drone footage my friend Inggo took of our trip!

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/UKP2LP2O0Z8?wmode=transparent&vq=hd1080

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share the island love!

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By Nathan Allen

“Nathan, what kind of camera do you use?”  I receive this question from I Dreamed Of This readers all of the time.  Well here you go…

When I read about the Olympus TG-4 and saw some test shots (both above and below the water), I forgot all about the GoPro and ordered one immediately. 

I’m a full-time travel blogger, and was heading out on a backpacking trip to document the beaches and marine life in the Philippines. 

I was looking for a waterproof, relatively compact, travel-friendly camera with equal photo and video capabilities, a large LCD screen, great image quality, low-light capabilities, and plenty of durability.  Oh, and a great price! Haha, I know…it’s a lot to ask.

Amazingly, when the camera arrived from Amazon.com, I realized I got so much more.  For those of you that are familiar with the TG-2 “tough” series, you should know that the latest series is a HUGE step up.  The TG-3 was already great, but the TG-4 improved on it even more.  A rugged, underwater camera that shoots RAW?  Yup.  Battery life is great, too – you can shoot all day before needing to charge.  I could go on and on, but I will let the sample photos speak for themselves. 

As you’ll see below, the Philippines is the perfect place to conduct a product review!  I have done my best to include plenty of unedited (as shot) examples of what the TG-4 is capable of.

TG-4 Test Shots – No Flash

On beautiful Boracay island, the TG-4 did great on sunny days, but the fast 2.0 aperture lens also allows you to take nice nighttime shots without a flash!  All of the photos on this page were taken handheld with no tripod. 

The camera has a very solid build and quality feel, and that makes it a bit heavier than its competitors.  It’s certainly bigger and heavier than the Gopro, but for me, the large LCD screen and excellent photo capabilities (including stunning macro) sold me on it. It’s still pocket-sized with no lens attached.

You can also purchase both a wide and telephoto option for this camera.  I have a wide lens on my APS-C sensor DSLR camera, and as far as I can tell, the wide angle Olympus fish eye would be the equivalent of about 11mm on an APS-C.

I don’t think it’s quite as wide as a Gopro, but as you can see, it gets the job done nicely!  Attach it to a selfie-stick and it’s perfect for solo travelers or group shots! A word of advice, though: Make sure you keep the lens cap on when not is use, and avoid getting fingerprints on the attached lens. It gets dirty very easily, and it can affect the pictures.

Waterproof, Kidproof, and a Super Fast 2.0 Lens

Who is this camera good for?  In my opinion, everybody!  Water sports enthusiasts or those with restless kids / pets will love the high aperture lens and durable, waterproof technology.  Jewelry and macro photographers will have an absolute blast playing with it (see below).   Those who are accident-prone will love how “tough” it really is.

Speaking of durability, when they say it’s “tough”, they mean it!  I have used it repeatedly in fresh and saltwater, I have dropped it on pavement (from a motorbike…at 40 MPH!), and I have crushed it.  It still functions perfectly.  It has no moving parts for beach sand to get stuck in and ruin. Let’s just say if I lost this camera, I would be devastated, and I would buy another one in a heartbeat.

Unreal Macro and Micro Modes (a 1cm Focus Distance!)

I was so amazed to learn that the TG-4 has a 1 centimeter minimum focus distance…that means you can basically get as close as you want to a tiny object, and still be able to focus. 

To top that, there are 2 and 4 X magnification modes that actual make the lens microscopic.  People even photograph snowflakes with this camera.

It also has focus bracketing built in, and that gives you the ability to shoot in macro modes with much more of your subject in focus.  You can take stunning macro video as well.

Oh, I forgot to mention that it has a 4 X optical zoom, too. From 25mm-100mm.

Raw, Manual, & Low Light…in a Cheap, Durable Point and Shoot?

It may not have the largest sensor out there, but in my opinion, when you consider the LCD screen, the ability to shoot RAW, and the price, these options blow the competition out of the water. There are plenty of manual settings available as well: Exposure comp, ISO, and white balance, to name a few.   Throw in art filters, photo collage features, panoramic and HDR options, and things really get interesting.  Wait, did I mention wifi and GPS?  Yup. 

 Yes, the technology packed into this little camera is incredible!

The green photo below is a leaf backlit with sunlight.  It was a handheld shot, and really shows how impressive the macro / micro features are.

Underwater Photography Samples

 The first time I got a glimpse of the underwater world in El Nido, Philippines, I knew I had to come back with a nice underwater camera!

The underwater modes are quite impressive – in fact, a dive master who borrowed it told me that it performed better than the Gopro in deep water. 

It shoots video up to 1080p, and while it’s not quite on par with the Gopro in terms of video, I think it makes up for it with a faster lens and (in my opinion) nicer underwater photos. 

You can use the wide angle lens underwater as well, but one drawback to this is the cheap plastic adapter that comes with it.  You need to be very careful when putting the lens on the camera, so that you don’t damage the adapter.  If damaged, while it’s doesn’t hurt the camera, the photos can be ruined by water leaking in between the external lens and the camera.

My solution to this was to let the water fill the space completely, so that I can shoot with no air bubbles in the way. I call it a “water filter”. Haha. As you can see, it still works beautifully!

Snorkeling and Diving Tests

The camera can be submerged up to 50 feet with no housing. I believe the housing you can buy (it’s quite pricey) can take it down to 150 feet. You can buy floater accessories and straps…sometimes the camera comes with them. It’s nice to use the strap when you’re snorkeling in deep water, trust me!

Underwater Video Sample

Here is some sample video footage I put together from snorkeling and diving in Moalboal, Philippines.  What an unforgettable experience!  The video is unedited, with the exception of the added music and transitions to join clips.  I also used youtube’s “anti-shake” feature when uploading it, because I started shivering after being in the water for a while! 

I definitely recommend watching it in HD if possible…

 There are also excellent time-lapse video options, and many more features that are better for you to discover on your own!  It is now my favorite all-purpose camera for traveling in the Philippines, because it takes stunning photos and I never have to worry about it getting damaged.  The lens options are nice and affordable, and are also waterproof. 

Where To Buy the Olympus TG-4

Understandably, this camera is highly reviewed and sold out very quickly. I had to backorder mine. Now it’s restocked in the US (Amazon.com), and also just became available in the Philippines.

As of now, the separate lenses must be purchased from Amazon in the US…check the links below.

“Fish Eye” Wide Angle Lens:
Olympus FCON-T01 Fisheye Converter for Olympus TG-1 & TG-2 (Black)

Telephoto Lens Option:
Olympus Telephoto Tough Lens Pack (lens and adapter) for TG-1, TG-2, and TG-3 Cameras (Black with Red Adapter)

Full disclaimer: I am not endorsed or sponsored by Olympus at all, and this is the first product I have ever recommended to my readers. I feel good knowing that I absolutely love this camera, and use it daily.   I bought it because of all the features mentioned earlier, but also because it was actually one-third cheaper than the Gopro!  Even the wide angle lens was quite affordable.

I will say that if you purchase yours through the links above, while it costs you nothing extra, a small percentage of the sale will go towards helping me continue documenting and promoting The Philippines and Filipino culture.  It’s a win-win for both of us!  For more information about my travel mission, click HERE

Do let me know if you have any questions about the camera, or need any help using it!

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Related blog: The beautiful, unexplored corals of Palumbanes, Catanduanes

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