Joey Carlotta

Alabang
Muntinlupa, Philippines
The trip starts at home in BF Resort Village in Las Pinas. We leave at about 9:30 AM with hopes of being in Tagaytay by noon for lunch. I have previously made it to Tagaytay in 2 hours using this route but I plan to drive at slower speeds to keep it comfortable for mom. Anyway, 15 minutes and 10 kilometers later through the Las Pinas Friendship Route, Ayala Alabang and Filinvest, we enter the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). Traffic is relatively light for a long weekend and considering all the road repair going on. In another 30 minutes and 30 kilometers we are paying for toll and shortly thereafter exit towards Batangas.
SLEX Road
SLEX Exit
written by  Joey Carlotta on February 24, 2008 from Muntinlupa, Philippines
from the travel blog: Sunday Drive - Taal Lake Loop

Bulacan
Plaridel, Philippines
The trip begins at 6:45 AM having woken Nina at 5:30 as she wanted to get dropped off in her office in BF Paranaque. There was the usual rush hour traffic on Sucat Road to get onto the SLEX which was mercifully smooth. I picked up my first passenger in EDSA corner Buendia at around 7:45 and met up with the rest of the team at by 8:15 along EDSA near the GMA station. We stopped for breakfast along the NLEX and exited at Sta. Rita at about 10:30.
Ready To Roll
Home
Sucat Road
EDSA
The first town out of the NLEX Sta. Rita exit is Plaridel in the province of Bulacan and immediately we were met by slow moving traffic on a single lane road. And to think that this is the gateway to the Cagayan Valley! The area is densely populated and very commercial. A number of provincial buses stopping along the way to pick up passengers did not help. After Plaridel, you will go through the towns of Baliuag, San Ildefonso and San Miguel before entering the province of Nueva Ecija. The traffic gets progressively lighter and the countryside opens up more and more as to you travel further away from Plaridel.
SLEX
NLEX
Pampanga
written by  Joey Carlotta on March 6, 2008 from Plaridel, Philippines
from the travel blog: Baguio Via Cabanatuan & Alternatives

A new road to travel.
Subic, Philippines
Water Mirage
Touted to be world-class, the SCTEx is currently 93.77 kilometers long stretching from Mabalacat, Tarlac to just before the Tipo gate of the Subic Bay complex. There is an access ramp giving motorists the option to exit onto the National Road leading to Olongapo. Apparently, plans are already afoot to extend this north from Tarlac all the way to Rosario, La Union where the fork to Baguio and Ilocos is. I have also heard that the road will also extend east to Dingalan, Quezon which will be very welcomed as it will open up the northern Quezon and the Cagayan Valley area.
Awesome Countryside
The old route to Subic from the NLEX would take you through San Fernando, Bacolor, Guagua, Sta. Rita, Sasmoan and Lubao in Pampanga and Dinalupihan in Bataan. Travel time on this stretch would take up to 2 hours mostly dependent on traffic in Lubao. We made it in under an hour on the SCTEx running at the maximum prescribed 100 KPH speed limit. We could have made it much quicker if not for the ever present patrol cars on the road.
Carved Mountain
Getting on the SCTEx from the NLEX was simpler than the instructions we got from a newspaper clipping from the day before. This caused a bit of confusion with so many options coming from or going to Clark or Tarlac and involving the use of the National Highway. We drove down to the last main exit gate which is in Dau. We only started seeing signs to SCTEx at this point. After about a kilometer or so there was a sign to exit to apparently what is the Clark Logistics Gate. This will take you over the NLEX and over the National Highway and onto the interchange getting onto the SCTEx. In case you get disoriented specially for first-timers, watch out for the directional signs. If I am not mistaken this is the only time you actually see a sign directing you to Subic. Make a mistake and you end up heading for Tarlac City.
Green Fields
There was one word that came to mind when first driving the SCTEx and this was AWESOME! The road is magnificent and the countryside (still) pristine. It is amazing how the road cuts through some hills to keep it as level as possible. On some stretches you see it go on and on in a straight line as far as the eye can see. In the midday heat on the way back, the road in the distance shimmered like there was water on it. The pictures we took will not come near doing it justice.
Head For The Hills
For now it is a long and lonely stretch without any services areas nor the gas stations and commercial complexes that will surely sprout soon enough. There will be 4 interchanges between the Clark Logistics and Tipo Gates but you are committed either way until these are built. Toll for this span is P112 then there is the P19 on the Tipo gate if immediately entering Subic.
Lahar River
We headed for Angeles City before heading home the following day. On the way back you practically find yourself inside Clark but there is still no interchange to exit from the SCTEx. Frustratingly, you will need to exit again at the Clark Logistics Interchange and get off onto the National Highway. Again, should you get disoriented, watch out for the sign that will direct you to Angeles City and not Tarlac City. You are now on the National Highway and traffic will be heavier. It is not a long drive to the Clark gate and you will soon be crossing the Mabalacat – Angeles border. If you are in need for a meal or a snack, keep an eye out for A La Crème which will be on your right shortly after crossing the border and right before the Clark gate. The steaks and pastas are good and the cakes and pastries divine.
Misty Mountains
While we are on the topic of food, you might as well know that my passion for driving around is only second to food and to eating. In Subic, there are a growing number of food outlets including some Manila brands but 3 establishments standout. First there is the the MeatPlus Cafe where you get (what else but) good steaks and pure beef burgers. Located on Sampson Road, Meatplus is something of landmark being centrally located and surrounded by a number of duty free shops. Second is Seafood by the Sea which obviously specializes in seafood. Located along Waterfront Drive, you can opt to dine outdoors by the beach. It has a rather unique menu, one portion enumerating the different seafood they serve and the lower part the different ways they can be cooked. A bit pricey but kudos to the cooks. Finally there is the merienda of the of the Subic International Hotel - Delta. For P99 you get to eat all you can. I think the place is called the Terrace Cafe and is located along either Sta. Rita St. or Canal Road. I was assured that breakfast, lunch and dinner are just as good and equally fairly priced. The place is cool and cozy. Coffee is also good and served in full-sized mugs. Not a place for finicky non-smokers though but I smoke so what the heck.
Long Long Road
We traveled on a weekday so there weren’t too many cars on the road although there were more people than usual in Subic but this could be attributed to the Labor Day holiday. In any case, there is more development in Subic and the general feeling and mood is optimistic and upbeat. Thankfully this project has not been touched by controversy as most other projects in the country have but as in any new project there is contention and the farmers are moaning about being displaced from their plots and the businessmen complaining about livestock on the road. Well, if our problems could only be that simple.
Out For A Drive
Happy trails!
written by  Joey Carlotta on April 29, 2008 from Subic, Philippines
from the travel blog: Subic–Clark–Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx)

Queen City of the South
Cebu City, Philippines
We took the 9:30 AM PAL flight to Cebu on Wednesday, May 21, which left on time and we got out of the airport in Mactan at about 11 AM. Besides taking care of business there, we had the chance to meet up with Tito Harry and Tita Carmen Campbell, old family friends. We had dinner with them on our first night at the Beehive, a nice little restaurant owned by a relation of Tita Carmen. Beehive was established in the 1940’s and is owned by Mrs. Hazel Gonzales and is run with her son Bruno. We caught up again with Tito Harry and Tita Carmen the following day at the Ayala Mall where they have a stall aptly called Carmen’s Linens. They sell beautiful handcrafted linens of all sorts as well as fantastic fresh water pearl jewelry designed by Tita Carmen herself. She is one skilled lady with a lot of good taste. On our last evening we dined at the world-renowned Arano. You can read more about this experience in FOOD TRIP.
We did not get a chance to move around too much as I had to get to as many meetings that were set up for me in the short time the we were there. I have been to Cebu a few times in the past but all those trips were likewise for business. We really have to go back to spend some time exploring the place. In any case, you can see why the Cebuanos are very proud of their little island even in a short visit. For starters, there is much history. Also, it has the right mix of province and city life. And finally, it is so centrally located that you can take a boatride to just about anywhere else in the Visayas and Mindanao including our ultimate destination, the island of Negros.
There are several ways to get to Bacolod from Cebu and the most civilized manner is to fly. But civilized we always ain’t. Itching for a bit of adventure, we opted to take the ferry to Dumaguete. There are two ferries leaving daily from Cebu to Dumaguete and both leave between 6 and 7 AM. The ride was smooth as the seas were calm. Including a stopover at Tagbilaran, Bohol, the boat ride took under 5 hours. From Dumaguete, there are buses that go to Bacolod over the mountains via Mabinay in Kabankalan. This cuts across the island of Negros heading first north on the eastern side of Oriental to Bais. The trip to Kabankalan from Dumaguete via Mabinay would take about 3 hours. Since our first stop was Hinoba-an, we would have to take another 3 hour bus ride south from Kabankalan for a total of 6 hours. There are also buses going the western route crossing over from Oriental at Bayawan directly into Hinoba-an in the Occidental side taking only 5 hours. The latter seemed like the best way to go and go we did for the ride of our life.
Miren in Arano's
Angel Ibarlucea (aka Arano)
written by  Joey Carlotta on May 21, 2008 from Cebu City, Philippines
from the travel blog: Cebu to Bacolod via Dumaguete

Drats! Foiled Again!
Las Pinas, Philippines
Typhoon Fengshen has just passed Manila, serving us a direct hit, and is on its way north. The rainy season has finally caught up with us, rather abruptly, and has once again dashed our plans to head up the mountain hinterlands. Stay tuned as there will definitely be a Take 3.
written by  Joey Carlotta on June 21, 2008 from Las Pinas, Philippines
from the travel blog: Northern Luzon Loop (Take 2)

Off to Calapan
Las Pinas, Philippines
The trip started as I took off from the house at 7:30 AM. I was to pick up 2 of my staff in Alabang at 8:00 AM but was delayed by the early morning traffic on the Alabang-Zapote Road where I had to drop off my daughter to take the bus to school. Normally, I would take the by-pass Friendship Route and make Alabang in 30 to 45 minutes. Passing the main road cost me almost twice the amount of time and my travel mates where more than ready to get on the road by the time I got to them.
Alabang was quite busy for that time of the day and we were glad to be getting on the SLEX. Unfortunately, the pace was slow-going due to the road work going on all the way to the exit to Sto. Tomas, Batangas. This work has been going on for so long and there seems to be no improvement nor end in sight. It almost appears that they are dragging it out. I just dread to learn how much more they will charge for toll after they complete the improvements.
Rust-bucket Ro-Ro in Batangas
Batangas Pier
Oil Refineries on Batangas Coast
written by  Joey Carlotta on October 18, 2008 from Las Pinas, Philippines
from the travel blog: Mindoro Day Trip

Prologue
Manila, Philippines
NOTE: Due to the late end of the rainy season particularly in the central mountain regions of Luzon, we are canceling part of the Northern Luzon Loop. See instead 2007 Carlotta X'Mas Family Road Trip.
Welcome to another Carlotta Family Road Trip Adventure. This time, we are doing the Northern Luzon Loop starting in Manila, going thru the provinces of Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Pangasinan, La Union, Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Viscaya, Ifugao, Mountain Province, Benguet and back to Manila via Pangasinan, Tarlac, Pampanga and Bulacan. The trip will take 7 days and 6 nights away from home. We are planning to leave on Christmas Day and be back in time for a New Year's Eve celebration at home. Traveling with me (Joey Carlotta) are my wife (Miren) and our 3 children, Nina (21), Inaki (18) and Timmy (16), all seasoned road warriors. We will be traveling in a 2.5 liter 6 cylinder 4X4 Suzuki Grand Vitara. We intend to stop in San Juan, La Union (1st night), Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte (2nd and 3rd night), Sagada, Mountain Province (4th and 5th night) and Baguio City, Benguet (6th night). The primary objectives are family bonding and outdoor fun but, personally, I look forward to being able to drive over the top of Luzon (thru Claveria, Cagayan) and thru Halsema Highway (aka Mountain Trail) between Sagada and Baguio City in the Mountain Province. If the Halsema Highway proves to be bad or risky, our alternate route home from Sagada will be back down to Nueva Viscaya and thru the provinces of Nueva Ecija and Bulacan. This is a half-day drive so we will have to cut the trip short by a day and leave for Manila on the 30th to be able to get enough rest for New Years' Eve. This blog is intended to document the trip and show the photos taken along way.
T minus 39 days.
written by  Joey Carlotta on November 16, 2007 from Manila, Philippines
from the travel blog: Northern Luzon Loop (CANCELED)

Prologue
Las Pinas, Philippines
In 3 days at this hour, we should finally be on the road for our 2007 Christmas Family Road Trip and vacation. These trips never fail to excite me. As a child, I could never sleep well on the eve of a trip. My late father, my namesake and from whom I got my love for road trips, liked to leave at 2 or 3 AM when going to Baguio or La Union. I am not so sure that it was because he wanted to skip traffic or save on time but instead I think it was because he was just as, if not more, excited than we were. On several occasions, my siblings and I would be bundled straight from bed into the car still in our pajamas for spur-of-the-moment trips to points unknown. It felt like we were sneaking out of Manila in the dark, speeding through the towns along Bulacan and Pampanga with their residents still fast asleep, and greeting the sun in Tarlac or Pangasinan where we would stop for breakfast in one of our favorite stopovers along the highway. We would arrive at our destination by the time we normally got up on weekends or holidays.
I have not been able to do this much since we got married because my wife hates traveling in the dark and getting up too early for that matter. The only time I prevailed was when we once took a straight 12 hour drive to Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. To get there by 7 AM, we had to leave by 6 PM the day before. The extra hour was spent getting out of Metro Manila alone. This eliminated the trip-eve sleeplessness and allowed me to take a good long nap before we hit the road. The rest of the evening and early morning was like a night out in the town without the drinking. I had a van at the time and the seats could be straightened out to form a big bed which was perfect for the kids, still young, who mostly slept throughout the trip. We had an early dinner in Luisita in Tarlac after the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and a break for coffee and leg-stretching at midnight in San Fernando, La Union halfway there. After San Fernando, the countryside starts to get really provincial and the towns further apart with very little in between. The fact that we were traveling in the wee hours of the morning did not help. Even in these modern days, filling up your gas tank is a necessity and not breaking down a constant prayer. In the 70’s, San Fernando, the capital of La Union, would start to shut down by 7 or 8 PM. In the next town of San Juan, even the dogs would get out of the streets the moment it got dark. In any case, this just added to the excitement of the trip and made me all the more cautious. We arrived as the hotel (Fort Ilocandia, our favorite) was coming awake. The kids were bright-eyed and bushy-tailed and ready for action and I was ripe for bed and sleep. Up for lunch and a dip after, then a nice nap and I was back to normal by late afternoon. On the way back, we cut the trip in half with a stay in San Juan (or was it Baguio?).
We have done this trip so often before but it is like the first time every time. Personally, I enjoy the trips more than the destinations but it is the really the time spent with the people you love and travel with that is important. We experience even the same things differently on each trip as the kids grow up and my wife and I grow older. Personalities change and the dynamics of the relationships evolve. Individually, we pass through events in our lives, whether good or bad or happy or sad, that affect us and rule our moods and sentiments during these trips. So it’s not really about the trip nor the destination after all. It’s about family. Locked up in a car and a resort or hotel room, our companies forced on each other, enjoyed or otherwise. The trip and destination merely an excuse and a means to a more important end. 3 more days and we start this new adventure in our lives as a family.
written by  Joey Carlotta on December 21, 2007 from Las Pinas, Philippines
from the travel blog: 2007 Carlotta X'Mas Family Road Trip

Boracay
Caticlan, Philippines
One of my favorites, as it is to many, is Boracay. Miren and I have been there twice but we haven't had the opportunity to bring the kids along yet. There is a good chance this will happen this summer when we intend to drive the car home from Bacolod via Panay and Mindoro using Ro-Ro ferries. I understand the ferry from Panay to Mindoro is in Caticlan which is that jump off point to Boracay. Both trips coincided with a visit of my uncle from Canada, Charlie Oloriz. We were a group of relatives and friends.
Landing Party
The good-looking and dashing fellow in the foreground is Tito Charlie. The gentleman immediately behind Tito Charlie and the first two people getting down the boat ramp are the Guidotes from Manila, good and long time friend of Tito Charlie. The guy in the yellow and stripped shirt is my cousin, Edmund Afzelius. The 2 guys infront and behind him are the Tirol brothers. They are also my cousins but I just met them through Edmund on our first trip there. They are all based in Iloilo. Miren and I had gotten off the boat first and I took this picture.
White Sand
Blue Water
Boracay was truly beautiful. I can only imagine what it was like before all the over-development took place. Unfortunately, it has gone the way that Baguio did. A recent article in the newspaper mentioned flooding and sewage spilling onto the beach. Still, it is an amazing site and experience for the first-time visitor and nonetheless enjoyable the next times you come. But this national treasure must be saved and protected.
TNT Entrance
TNT Cottage
The first time we went, we stayed at the TNT Resort right smack in the middle of Boat Station 2. It was a very pleasant place with lots of garden and trees. The construction of the cottages and eating areas were all of bamboo and nipa. The rooms were very comfortable and had all the amenities you could need including airconditioning, cable TV and clean bathrooms with hot showers. The resort even had a tennis court. I don't recall the menu being too extensive but you could buy food in the market nearby and have this cooked. More importantly, the beer was cold. The owners are friends of Edmund and we were well attended to. I dream of going back there.
Edmund Relaxing
Joey and Miren at Fairways and Bluewaters
Drink, Eat and Be Merry
All Aboard
Suffice it to say, we had a fantastic time in paradise. In the day time, there was the clear blue water to enjoy. Those who cared for it played tennis. I went scuba diving once but the sea life was not too impressive. There was also the talipapa where we bought souvenirs and fresh seafood. The restaurants up and down the boardwalk present quiet an wide and varied choice of food. We explored the island and even rented some dirt bikes to get around. At night, the whole strip turned into a party place. There was bar-hopping and disco-dancing and sitting around listening to live performances right on the beach. I look forward to taking the kids here soon. I hope it isn't too spoiled yet.
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 8, 2008 from Caticlan, Philippines
from the travel blog: Previous Trips - Visayas

Fort Ilocandia
Laoag, Philippines
As mentioned previously, Fort Ilocandia is a family favorite. It is so big that it is never crowded. The ambiance is so relaxing, the rooms large and the food great. There used to be duty-free shopping and I think the casino is still there. The expansive grounds are perfectly maintained and manicured.
Inaki and Timmy at night
Cool Nina in Fort Ilocandia room
The following photos were taken on a Holy Week vacation which coincided with the birthday of Timmy, April 15.
Timmy blowing birthday cake candles
Tiimmy birthday picture with Nina and Inaki
The kids liked it particularly because it has 3 swimming pools, one is Olympic-sized, another is deep and the third a smaller kiddie pool with a slide.
Joey taking a dip
Miren and Timmy night-swimming
Inaki and Timmy in deep pool
Timmy in kiddie pool
The beach is the widest I have seen and form part of the famous dunes although the sea is a bit rough and deepens quickly.
Kite is up
Kite is down
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 16, 2008 from Laoag, Philippines
from the travel blog: Previous Trips - Ilocos

Batangas
Nasugbu, Philippines
Nasugbu in Batangas used to be a very popular beach destination. Its close proximity to the city soon spelled its dooms with overcrowding and pollution. Others beaches in the neighboring towns have opened up since but Nasugbu remains to be a favorite among those who can’t afford ritzier resorts or more secluded locations where no public transport is available.
The following pictures were taken some years ago right after New Years when we found ourselves with a few more days before work and school started.
And who is going to pick up this mess?
Can I go to sleep now?
Wee!
Where are the dam dolfins?
On any trip passing to or through Batangas, specially on a hot day, it is nice to stop by a roadside stall to have some refreshing coconuts. The following pictures were taken on a different trip.
You're not going anywhere, kid.
Can we go now?
Are we there yet?
Yummy!
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 18, 2008 from Nasugbu, Philippines
from the travel blog: Previous Trips - Batangas and Mindoro

Panglao Island
Bohol, Philippines
Welcome!
The flight from Manila takes 1 hour to Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol. It takes another 30 minutes from the Tagbilaran Airport to Bohol Beach Club in the nearby island of Panglao.
Restaurant
Poolside Bar
Bohol Beach Club has every conceivable amenity including 3 restaurants and 3 pools. They also have a business center and several conference and function rooms. The staff are really friendly and very courteous. The food is a bit pricey but superb.
Standard Rooms
De Luxe Rooms
Our Room
Room View
Forest Path
Beach Path
Path to rooms.
Garden Path
The resort is spread out over 40 hectares of land along the longest beach I have ever seen. With so much space, there are numerous long paths which make walking a pleasure. Rooms vary from standard to de luxe to suites.
Just like Boracay.
White sand and blue surf.
Nearing Sunset
Beach view from water.
Beach Huts
Perfect for relaxation.
The beach rivals the famous and fabled Boracay without the crowd. The water is clean and crystal clear. There is always a spot with a hammock or beach chair where you can be alone even when the resort is fully booked.
Wish you were here!
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 26, 2008 from Bohol, Philippines
from the travel blog: Bohol Beach Club

Day 1
Bolinao, Philippines
I was told that the driving time to Bolinao using the Romulo Highway is 5 to 6 hours. Since my starting point is in Las Pinas, I added another hour to that. I had agreed to a meet-up time of 8:30 AM along EDSA with my team so I promptly left the house at 7:30. Traffic was relatively light on this departure for a change but I was still late for the appointed time by a few minutes. After a quick bite at Jolibee we were off by about 9 AM. After an hour or so we were exiting towards Luisita from NLEX where stopped for a cup of coffee and a smoke.
There is a further exit from NLEX coming out past Tarlac City but this will cause you to backtrack if you are going on the Romulo Highway. In any case, Luisita was an intended layover as it is such an agreeable place and a pity that they have not been able to make a real go of it. I enjoy the tree-lined streets and the expanses of sugar cane fields but you note a sense of abandonment and disuse. Robinson’s has taken over the mall and this will hopefully start to liven up the place. But in reality, a stop there is a must as it is the last Starbucks until Baguio and the end of civilization as some of us would prefer it.
It is a short distance from Luisita to the junction to Alaminos on the National Highway. It is actually a fork with a roundabout. The Grand Prix Hotel next to the Victory Liner station is a very visible landmark. Turning left on the fork and getting off the National Highway, you enter what I assume is the city proper of Tarlac. As you will often experience along this route, you will get to a one-way road with no signs to inform you what to do or where to go next. Turning right and then left on the first street, we crossed a major bridge after which we stopped to get directions. Fortunately it was a lucky guess and we were soon on the Romulo Highway and back in the countryside.
This road presents a pleasant change from the countryside we are familiar with passing through the National Highway going to Baguio or La Union. The landscape is very green and wooded if not flat and completely planted with rice. The road is asphalted with stretches of concrete and in very good condition. Gasoline stations quickly become few and far in between so I suggest you load up in Tarlac if you are low or particular about your fuel. We also discovered that there are no ATM’s until Alaminos so cash up too for incidentals. Despite the pesky tricycles slowing us down on the road, the towns flew by very quickly and we finally got a view of the sea somewhere between Labrador and Sual. Sual is big of fish with numerous stalls selling fresh catch along the road. Watermelon seemed to be in season too.
The drive from Tarlac to Alaminos is about another 2 hours. Alaminos is the last major town heading the opposite direction from Dagupan and Lingayen. It is really quite small but relatively busy. A mall has gone up since the last time I stopped there 3 or 4 years ago for lunch at McDonald’s on the way to Subic from Baguio. They now have Chowking and the ever present Jolibee as well. All the major banks also have branches there including BPI where we got some money. In the heart of Alaminos is a junction with one branch going to Zambales, another going to Bolinao and the third going to the wharves where you take a boat to Hundred Islands which is a place I must revisit soon. On our way to Subic from Bolinao we take a turn in Bani to Zambales that would meet up with the road starting at this fork.
Alaminos to Bolinao is another hour and a half. We missed the turn to the resorts and stopped at the town proper where we saw this magnificently old church. Getting directions to the resort area, we promised to return to explore the church on the way to Subic. It was another 10 kilometer drive on mostly unpaved road on the way to Puerto del Sol, our first stop. We passed a number of small resorts and I was starting to get worried about the quality of accommodations here specially with our business in mind. Puerto del Sol turned out to be quite a pleasant surprise and nothing near what we expected.
Puerto del Sol is a statement of class and quality. The beach is not that great but the golden brown sand is a great combination for the view of the breakers in the distance. The pool makes up for the swimming you miss in the ocean and the surrounding gardens, arranged and trimmed to perfection, almost obscure the Mediterranean style clusters of rooms made up in simplistic elegance. This theme flows into the dining area which has that old home feel with matching décor and furniture. Staying here comes with a price but worth every penny if you can afford it.
We visited other resorts which paled in comparison but had a treat at the Bolinao lighthouse which was along the way. The short climb rewards you with a sweeping view. The lighthouse and the adjoining building are very old but there was no information to be had as it was completely deserted although the lighthouse itself seems secured and self sustained with solar power and all.
written by  Joey Carlotta on November 18, 2008 from Bolinao, Philippines
from the travel blog: Bolinao – Subic – Mariveles

Shooting the Rapids
Pagsanjan, Philippines
From Manila, the halfway point is Pagsanjan where lunch can be had in one of the various Riverside resorts that cater to people shooting the world-famous rapids. This is something that every Filipino should do at least once in their lives. I did it when I was still very young and have never considered doing it again. Neither the kids nor Miren have done it so maybe I should. The waterfalls is actually located in Cavinti upriver from the rapids.
Timmy in Pagsanjan resort pool
Joey in Pagsanjan resort hut
Joey beside Pagsanjan river
Inaki beside Pagsanjan river
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 18, 2008 from Pagsanjan, Philippines
from the travel blog: Previous Trips - Laguna Lake Loop

Lake Caliraya
Cavinti, Philippines
Another option is to pack lunch and have a picnic at nearby picturesque Lake Caliraya. There are a number of resorts along the shores of the lake offering various types of accommodations and facilities for water sports. I have long wanted to kayak and fish this lake. Lake Caliraya is actually man-made and used to generate hydropower.
Miren, Inaki and Timmy on Lake Caliraya pier
Mom, Miren, Inaki and Timmy along Caliraya Lake shore
Joey and kids with Laguna view
Joey, Inaki and Timmy on Caliraya Lake shore
There is also the Exotik Restaurant further down the road, ideal for the gastronomically adventurous. Even if its for a snack or just something to drink, Exotik is worth a stop. Make sure to check out the menu and ask to be introduced to Samantha.
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 19, 2008 from Cavinti, Philippines
from the travel blog: Previous Trips - Laguna Lake Loop

Day 2
Subic, Philippines
After making all our calls it was time to head to Subic but a visit to the old church was in order. The Bolinao church was built in honor of St. James who has been attributed for protecting the town while the surrounding areas would get devastated by typhoons. Outside the church there is a monument commemorating St. Ordonico, an Italian priest who supposedly said the first mass in the 1300’s there in Bolinao debunking history books claiming the same in Cebu in the 1500’s. The church will be celebrating its 400th year anniversary next year and a fete is in the planning. I hope that the sons and daughters of Bolinao come to the aid of their church as the interior is in a bad state. It is such a shame for something so historic and worth being really proud of.
We left Bolinao at about 10 AM and were informed that the drive would take about 4 to 5 hours. As earlier mentioned we turned southward in the town of Bani instead of going all the way back to Alaminos. The interior roads in this part of Pangasinan are narrow but well paved making for a pleasant drive. The countryside is resplendently green and beautiful as we move inland again before returning by the shore in Zambales. We stopped in Iba for a leg stretch and a smoke midway of the leg and arrived in Subic at about 6 PM. Please note that there is a town before Olongapo named Subic and not to be confused with SBMA which is in Olongapo. It is still half an hour to an hour from the town to Subic to SBMA depending on the traffic which can build up as you get closer to Olongapo proper.
The beaches along this stretch are really great and it is a wonder why no big resorts have been established. There are a number of islands off the coast that make for good day trips and even overnight stays. Past Iba you will notice the profusion of pine trees on the dunes by the shore. Nearer to Olongapo there is Crystal Beach in San Narciso which is a surfing destination but definitely not a place to swim specially for children. There are rooms and cottages for rent right on the beach. Surfing lessons and boards are likewise available.
The problem with the tricycles in the Alaminos to Olongapo road is just as bad if not worse than the Romulo Highway since traffic is denser. I don’t know if these guys talk to each other but they all have same modus operandi of slowing to a crawl when cars behind them are waiting to pass. Better to keep a safe distance from these pests.
written by  Joey Carlotta on November 19, 2008 from Subic, Philippines
from the travel blog: Bolinao – Subic – Mariveles

Mindoro
Puerto Galera, Philippines
Getting to PG is a short drive or bus ride from Manila to Batangas and a nice boat ride from there. The boat ride from Batangas leaves the protective coastline of the main landmass of Luzon and crosses the Verde Island Passage before entering a channel on the island of Mindoro. The approach to PG is quite beautiful, bordered by fine beaches and rock cliffs. Once on the main dock in PG, you can take public transport, by land or by water, to your favorite beach.
The following pictures were taken on a trip where stayed at the Sand Bar Resort area.
Easy does it!
A sailing we will go.
Why do we need to use these tubes?
Row, row, row your boat.
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 18, 2008 from Puerto Galera, Philippines
from the travel blog: Previous Trips - Batangas and Mindoro

Marcos Country
Paoay, Philippines
Miren and I hardly get a chance to take off on our own. We just can't bring ourselves to leave the kids behind. On this trip, Miren had to go to Vigan for work so I offered to be the driver. It was over a couple of weekdays so the kids couldn't come or they would miss school. Finally!
The next photos are of Miren and myself in Paoay.
Joey on steps of Paoay Church
Joey exploring Paoay Church
Paoay Church
Miren at garden of old house
Joey in the Malacanang of the North
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 16, 2008 from Paoay, Philippines
from the travel blog: Previous Trips - Ilocos

Lakawon Island
Cadiz, Philippines
Another favorite excursion spot is Lakawon Island in Cadiz, Negros Occidental. Only 30 to 45 minutes away from Bacolod, it is frequented by the locals and a must for the first time visitor. The island is small, a large sandbar really, but the pure white sand beach rivals that of Boracay. The beaches around Bacolod and the neighboring towns and cities are not very good, mostly muddy or rocky. To the south, there are better beaches in Sipalay and Hino-baan, 4 to 5 hours drive from Bacolod. To the north, I haven't seen any good beaches on the mainland coast but there are also similar islands and sandbars in Sagay and Escalante, 1 to 2 hours drive from Bacolod.
The following pictures were taken when my brother-in-law got married in Bacolod about 7 or 8 year ago. My sister-in-law, Amaya Bilbao Del Castillo, came with her daughter, Sarah, for the occasion and we did a side trip to Lakawon.
The Bride and the Groom
Amaya and Sarah
Miren, Inaki and the flower girl, Timmy
Joey in barong
From the national road in Cadiz, you will be directed to enter a dirt road which will lead you to the shore after a distance. There is a secured parking lot where you can leave your car and arrange for a banca to take you to the island. The is no wharf and the beach there is shallow so you will have to wade to the boat and carry you bags and packages.
Nina and Sarah walking to boat
Wading to boat
Sarah,Amaya and her friend from Canada
Timmy and Inaki walking to boat
You can see the island in the distance and the boat ride in not very far. The water is usually calm in the morning when one would normally go there but it tends to get choppy and rough in the afternoon on the way back.
Boatride for Amaya and Sarah
Boatride for Nina
The island was not very developed at the time. There was a fishing village on one side of the island with the resort occupying the rest. There were sevaral beach huts for rent and there were a few cottages for overnight stays. There also was a dining area and a restaurant. I believe there is a fully operational resort now. Thank God because there was scant little shade on the island and it could get really hot by noon.
Miren, Inaki and Timmy
The troop
Timmy in the shade
Amaya in the shade
The best part is the clear blue water that everyone enjoyed.
Nina in water
Kids swimming
Miren on Lakawon beach
Swimming in clear water
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 8, 2008 from Cadiz, Philippines
from the travel blog: Previous Trips - Visayas

Planning the Trip - References
Manila, Philippines
NOTE: Due to the late end of the rainy season particularly in the central mountain regions of Luzon, we are canceling part of the Northern Luzon Loop. See instead 2007 Carlotta X'Mas Family Road Trip.
Worthy to note are the references I use in planning trips. First and foremost, I would like to mention the Luzon edition of the Philippine Road Atlas and Stopover Guide published by E-Z Map. It has been an invaluable tool and source of entertainment at the same time. Even armchair travelers wishing to virtually tour the country are well-advised to purchase a copy. It is packed with tips, details and local color. Comments and observations can be humorous too coming from non-Filipino authors. My deep respect stems from the fact that they have apparently driven all those roads and visited (or at least researched) all those places. I bought my copy back in 2001 and it is getting a bit dated. I will check for a newer version next time I am at the bookstore. Too bad they don't have an on-line publication. I might also add that I am a great fan of the magazine called Cruising, a monthly publication of Manila Bulletin. It is in fact the only publication I buy on a regular basis.
I also use maps. In fact I like maps and collect them. I am never without a map in the car or when traveling with someone else. My all-time favorites are the Roadmap of the Philippines published by National Bookstore and the localized maps by E-Z Map. The first thing I do when I arrive in a foreign country is to look for a map in the airport. This came in handy when I visited Shanghai, China where asking and giving directions proved difficult since I didn't speak the language. I quickly found that pointing to my desired destination on a map to a taxi driver always did the trick. On the other hand, maps do not work very well as visual aids when asking for directions from the locals in the Philippines. In fact, I have become wary about asking Filipino locals for directions. Rather than admit ignorance, I have in more than one occasion been led on wild goose chases. I have also found that the local police are most helpful and reliable.
Finally, there is the Internet that I use extensively. But finding proper information there is as chancy as coming across an occasional TV feature while surfing the tube or printed article in your favorite daily or Sunday magazine. With the increasing use of blogs, a web search would come up with a profusion of personal accounts that are at best incomplete and at worse completely inaccurate. One good thing about them are the rants or raves about restaurants and resorts or hotels which are difficult to discern from the commercial websites of these establishments. Still, the Internet presents the handiest and most varied source for information. It has also inspired me to write this blog in the hope that other families or individuals find the information useful in planning their own trips.
T minus 38 days.
written by  Joey Carlotta on November 17, 2007 from Manila, Philippines
from the travel blog: Northern Luzon Loop (CANCELED)

Ferry to Mindoro
Batangas, Philippines
It was short easy leg from the SLEX exit to the Star Toll entrance. The Star Toll was light and the drive was smooth all the way past the usual Lipa exit and onto the Batangas terminus. The stretch past Lipa is considerable and seems to go on forever is unaccustomed. After paying the toll you get to the roundabout, turning right towards Lipa and back to Manila, left to Batagas City proper, and straight directly onto the Batangas port which we took. You will come upon an overpass that you should take to the pier but of note is a sign directing motorist under the overpass onto Mabini where Anilao is.
The port area of Batangas is quite impressive. It is modern and very clean. With a bit of asking for directions, we found the secured parking lot beside the ferry terminal. The SuperCat ferry was just leaving as we entered the terminal but there was a 10:00 AM ferry with another company. The people there swore it was faster but it sure looked older and did not exactly inspire confidence. In any case, we had no choice because the next SuperCat was leaving much later.
We were actually planning to bring the car over by Ro-Ro (Roll On – Roll Off) but decided against it as the hotel was picking us up from the Calapan pier and there was really nowhere else to go. This was a good thing because the Ro-Ro ship we saw was literally a rust-bucket if you ever saw one. It also took the Ro-Ro boats 2 hours to get to Calapan as compared to the 1 hour of fast-craft ferries.
The ferry ride was uneventful and quite pleasant. The remaining coastline of Batangas is dotted with a number of oil refineries. They are quite a site at night as they are all lit up and there is usually flame coming out of some smoke stacks or vents. The seas were very calm and there was very little motion except between tip of Batangas and Verde Island and between Verde Island and Mindoro. The body of water between Batangas and Mindoro is called Verde Island Passage and connects the China Sea with the Pacific Ocean. Acting as a funnel of sorts, the currents can be brutal. I have seen both sharks and dolphins on previous crossings. On one particular night crossing we were treated to phosphorescence all the way.
Tip of Batangas
Passing Ships
Verde Island
written by  Joey Carlotta on October 18, 2008 from Batangas, Philippines
from the travel blog: Mindoro Day Trip

Doomsville
Dumaguete, Philippines
The Ceres bus network is like the lifeline in the island of Negros. It provides more than a primary means of transport, connecting all the towns and cities and the lives of the people who live in those places. Buses come and go following strict schedules and it is a cause of major concern for all when one is late in arriving. Arriving in Dumaguete close to lunch, we were sorely tempted to stop in one of the many restaurants along their famous boulevard. But not knowing the bus schedules and loaded down with four full suitcases courtesy of my dear wife, we decided to head straight to the Ceres terminal, get our tickets, secure our baggage and head back into town for some food and bit of relaxation before hitting the road again. But this was not to be. Once in the terminal we were informed that the last bus going to Hinoba-an was leaving at noon. We only had enough time to buy some snacks and drinks and load our bags before the bus started to roll that we didn’t even get a chance to give the bus a once over. Ceres has all sorts of buses - big, small, air-conditioned and not. They appear to be adding new buses to their fleet all the time and I have often wondered what they did with their older buses. We were soon about to find out.
The road network throughout the island of Negros is pretty extensive and well maintained except probably in the hinterlands and 25 kilometer stretch in the Oriental-Occidental border that we were about to traverse. This last of the last frontiers took one hour to negotiate alone. The good news was that they were starting on it already and in good time. The bad news was that all the trucks and construction equipment were making it worse in some places and they tarried making any more repairs since they were going to get to it soon but not soon enough for those who traveled the road frequently and the poor sap who did it once and would swear never to pass there ever again. With such detestably and horridly bad roads, Ceres fielded only their oldest and worst rickety units on this route and for good reason. It would have been more comfortable to walk barefoot!
Before all this moaning and groaning started, we were oblivious of our fate and still excited about the ride ahead. It started pleasantly enough as the countryside in this neck of the woods still very rural and still unmarred by developments. Inescapably, new houses and some mansion-like structures of the nouveau middle class and elite dot the roadside as they do in the rest of the country. Past Bacong, the first town after Dumaguete, there is Dauin, site to numerous dive resorts and jump off point to Apo Island. Further are Zamboanguita and Siaton, the southern most tip of the province of Oriental and of the entire island of Negros. From here the countryside starts to get wilder with Bayawan as the last outpost. Basay is the next and last town of Negros Oriental and here starts the agony until the town proper of Hinoba-an on the Occidental side.
By the way, I have heard some locals and in particular some acquaintances from Bais refer to Dumaguete as Doomsville. I can't recall the reason for this but the name stuck. I really do not know the place that well to make a judgement but the people I have met from there I have liked including an old buddy Marichelle Teves-Magalona who is based there. I hope to get a chance to know the place better some day.
On the ferry to Dumaguete
Stopover in Tagbilaran
Port of Dumaguete
Oriental countryside
Hidden valley
Mountain roads
written by  Joey Carlotta on May 23, 2008 from Dumaguete, Philippines
from the travel blog: Cebu to Bacolod via Dumaguete

Nueva Ecija
Gapan, Philippines
The first town in Nueva Ecija is Gapan which is a major population center but not as heavy as Plaridel. Between Gapan and Cabanatuan are San Leonardo and Sta. Rosa. I noted several places selling cheap tilapia as well as fingerlings. Care must be taken driving this stretch as the asphalt on the road is uneven making steering difficult. Volume of traffic was still on the heavy side but overtaking was easy as there was very little southbound traffic.
Bulacan
While there is one notable major road, the route is poorly posted. We came across some forks and there were no signs indicating which led where. On the other hand, I made my first discovery in Gapan where I spied a sign with a left arrow indicating 45 kilometers to San Fernando, Pampanga. Referring to my map, I saw that we could have exited NLEX at San Fernando and gotten to Gapan through the towns of Mexico, Sta. Ana and Arayat in Pampanga and Cabiao and San Isidro in Nueva Ecija bypassing Plaridel, Baliuag, San Ildefonso and San Miguel in Bulacan. In fact you can even skip Mexico, Pamganga by exiting before San Fernando at San Simon.
written by  Joey Carlotta on March 6, 2008 from Gapan, Philippines
from the travel blog: Baguio Via Cabanatuan & Alternatives

Santo Tomas
Batangas, Philippines
The traffic on the road between the SLEX exit and the entrance to the Star Toll was likewise light. The stretch is about 5 kilometers. I always have to keep an eye out for the sign to turn right onto the Star Toll. The signs are posted immediately before the turnoff and easy to miss if you are going at a fast clip. There are a number of industrial estates along this stretch that can cause some buildup during weekdays. On this particular trip, the police had an inspection roadblock for Manila-bound vehicles which caused the traffic to backup considerably. I wonder who or what they were looking for?
Star Toll Turnoff
Star Toll Entry
The first exit on the Star Toll is the Sambat Exit that takes you to the lakeside town of Talisay where there is a turnoff that leads to Tagaytay up a well paved but steep and curvy road. This is a good alternative when traffic is extra heavy on the traditional routes. After the climb you will find yourself close to the Tagaytay Picnic Grove. Talisay, by the way, is where you can hire boats to go to the Taal Volcano island. There are several resorts along the lakeside road including the Taal Yatch Club. You will emerge in Lemery if you follow this road to the end. I make reference to this route later approaching from the opposite end of the road.
Sambat Exit
Star Toll Road
The star toll is a pleasure to drive. It is well paved and traffic is always light. The road climbs and dips making driving interesting. The countryside also opens up in all its green glory. There are a number of exits to places unknown that are so tempting to explore but keep an eye out for the exit before the end of the toll way. You will want to take the Batangas exit and not the Lipa exit which will bring you to Lipa proper with its city-style traffic. There is a break in the road where you will have to make a short U-turn crossing the opposite lane onto the exit toll plaza bringing you back to the national highway on which you turn right going towards Batangas City.
Star Toll Exit
Lipa Road
written by  Joey Carlotta on February 24, 2008 from Batangas, Philippines
from the travel blog: Sunday Drive - Taal Lake Loop

Cuenca
Batangas, Philippines
You will now be in the outskirts of Lipa but the traffic will still be heavy as the area is very populated and primarily commercial. You will pass the Basa Air Force base on your right. Keep an eye out again for a right turn going to Cuenca. Again, the sign post is immediately before the turn and easy to miss. On this trip, there was a sign on the road about a bridge that was closed. I disregarded this sign and almost paid for it dearly. On the stretch between the Star Toll Exit and the Cuenca turnoff there are numerous stalls selling what appears to be aluminum cookware of all sorts. Makes you wonder where all the aluminum came from.
Cuenca Turnoff
Cuenca Road
Cuenca is a pleasant place to drive through. The terrain is hilly with denser forest cover. The view is dominated by Mount Maculot. About halfway through Cuenca, we found out what the sign at the turnoff was trying to tell us. The bridge on the main road was out. Fortunately, a local offered to ride with us and show us an alternate route through interior roads. He mentioned that there was a bit of rough road but assured us that our 4X4 could take it. Mom sat straighter in her seat and appeared to be making a silent novena. From experience, these locals have a tendency of understating road conditions and distances so I took this with a chuckle and a grain of salt. There is a related story when we get past Lemery later.
Mt. Maculot In Clouds
Leaving Cuenca
written by  Joey Carlotta on February 24, 2008 from Batangas, Philippines
from the travel blog: Sunday Drive - Taal Lake Loop

Nueva Ecija
Cabanatuan, Philippines
We got to Cabanatuan around 12:00 PM. Cabanatuan is quite progressive. There are numerous car dealerships along the highway as well as high end subdivisions. There are plenty of small malls along the way and SM will soon make its presence in the area. After visiting the hotel, we had lunch at Rustica which is highly recommended. They have a branch in Tarlac City. The fare is Filipino. A must-try is the fish head soup.
There are quite a number of roads between Cabanatuan and Tarlac to its west. Without backtracking to Gapan, you can end up in any major town in Tarlac and Northern Pampanga. The roads are all well paved and the views very scenic. Unfortunately, road signs are very poor to almost nonexistent.
written by  Joey Carlotta on March 6, 2008 from Cabanatuan, Philippines
from the travel blog: Baguio Via Cabanatuan & Alternatives

The Last Frontier
Hinoba-an, Philippines
Why this road has been left unpaved for so long is a mystery to all. Mind you, most of it is on the Hinoba-an side of the border. The seascape and mountain sceneries are fantastic but the ride was so horrendous that I was able to take only one reasonable picture while holding on for dear life. We were able to manage front row seats beside the driver and the experience was like riding a mechanical bull, going through ruts and potholes that would have swallowed whole a normal car. The fact that we were on a giant rattle trap did not help. Current efforts at concreting the road became more evident as we got closer to the town proper but these were only half the lanes and still too fresh therefore still unusable. Complete disregard has been given to the remaining unpaved road which made it all the worse. It was with more than a sigh of relief that we entered the bus terminal at last and not a minute later.
A short tricycle ride brought us to the home of my mother-in-law and we must have looked a sight as she could not suppress her laughter upon seeing us but was very apologetic for being the cause of our travails. We had endless glasses of cold water to clear the dust from our throats but it took several showers before I felt properly cleansed and fit. It took two days for me to recover any sense of feel in my rear and for the pain from the bumps and bruises to go away. We did not venture far from the house for the rest of our stay except to go for a swim in Happy Valley and to visit with some family of the wife. Being one of our regular vacation spots, I have written several other entries about Hinoba-an so I will skip further narative on the place.
Approaching Hinoba-an
Sipalay view
Path
House
Trees
Garden
written by  Joey Carlotta on May 25, 2008 from Hinoba-an, Philippines
from the travel blog: Cebu to Bacolod via Dumaguete

Mission Accomplished
Mindoro, Philippines
We arrived in Calapan 11:00 AM on the dot. The port area is much smaller than Batangas but just as modern and clean. The hotel shuttle was waiting for us and it was a short drive by-passing Calapan proper which we unfortunately did not get to see at all. The Filipiniana Hotel is the only hotel of note in Calapan if not the entire Mindoro. It was formerly a Microtel hotel and the first one in Asia for that matter. The owners have since taken over management of the hotel headed by Arnold Valencia.
We got to know our host and prospective business partner over a nice lunch and got down to business right after. After a bit of negotiating and a lot of banter, we were done by 2:30 PM, signed contract and all. By 3:00 PM we were on a SuperCat headed back to Batangas. How I wish I had more meetings like this. I hope to be able to visit again to see more of Calapan and possibly have a drink with Arnold who is a real nice guy.
The SuperCat is newer than the ferry we took in the morning. The only downside is that they stuffed too many seats in the cabin making for a tight and rather uncomfortable ride. In any case, we slept most of the way back and were in Batangas by 4:00 PM. We wanted to have a snack before hitting the road but that would have meant going into Batangas City which did not appeal to any of us. We decided to just push on and have an early dinner in Rose and Grace or in Leslies in Sto. Tomas.
The Star Toll was just a light as the morning drive and we were in Sto. Tomas by about 5:30PM. Unfortunately, this is the hour when most factories along the road let their employees off so the traffic was heavy and the drive very slow. The restaurants we planned on eating in were on the wrong side of the road and it was going to be a real hassle crossing the traffic on the national highway so we decided to push on a have dinner in Alabang instead. Even more unfortunate was the even heavier traffic on SLEX. We each had a cup of coffee in one of the gasoline stations about halfway to Alabang and finally rolled into Festival Mall by about 8:00 PM. We had a bit of a feast at Serye to reward ourselves and I was home before 10:00 PM, tired but satisfied from the otherwise pleasant jaunt and a mission accomplished.
Calapan Ro-RO
Our Fast Craft Ferry to Calapan
Homeward on Star Toll
written by  Joey Carlotta on October 18, 2008 from Mindoro, Philippines
from the travel blog: Mindoro Day Trip

Planning the Trip - The Route
Manila, Philippines
NOTE: Due to the late end of the rainy season particularly in the central mountain regions of Luzon, we are canceling part of the Northern Luzon Loop. See instead 2007 Carlotta X'Mas Family Road Trip.
A primary consideration in planning a trip is the route to be taken. Of course there is the financial consideration but you won’t know how much you will spend if you don’t know where you are going, where you will be staying and what you will be doing. You can always scale down later. On this trip, it really wasn’t very difficult to decide because I have been wanting to do 2 things for the longest time and these are a) to drive over the top of the main island of Luzon and b) to drive thru the fabled and supposedly picturesque Halsema Highway locally known as Mountain Trail. Driving thru the top of Luzon is a much easier objective with sufficient stops in between and relatively good roads ensuring safe passage. Driving the Halsema Highway is different story altogether. They don’t call it Mountain Trail for nothing.
Until recently, the road has remained mostly in a state of disrepair with attempts at paving washed away by landslides that occur yearly during the Monsoon season (June to October) when many accidents and deaths occur and the road is often closed to vehicular traffic. It is still represented in most maps as a dotted line which does not bode well. Recent efforts by the government have apparently resulted in some success between Baguio and Mt. Data (about halfway) with the remainder projected to be completed sometime next year. Still, passage is advised only for the sturdiest of buses and public utility vehicles that regularly ply the route or capable high-clearance and/or 4-wheel drive vehicles. It goes without saying that driving skill and a penchant for self-punishment is required. Despite all this, the route promises great vistas and an experience that can only be had in about the last patch of pristine mountain countryside traversed by a major road. Having put this off for so long, I want to do it now before the road is finally fully paved and the stretch goes the way that Baguio did. Nonetheless, the final decision to proceed with this leg of the trip will depend on the actual road condition to be inquired from the nearest Department of Public Works and Highways office and/or from a bus driver who had just recently passed the route. I do not intend to risk life, limb or property for a thrill that may prove costly.
Another parameter in planning the route was driving time between stops. While my wife will act as back-up driver, I wanted to limit each leg to not more than 6 hours. On this basis, I wish to avoid the alternate 12-hour route home passing thru Nueva Ecija that does not present anything remarkable to see much less worth spending the night for.
The final decision made on the route for this trip was whether to start by way of the western coastal road or start with Baguio and (try) to do the mountains first. The deciding factor again became the Halsema Highway. Getting detoured so early in the trip could put a serious dent on the whole thing. Reservations for resorts and hotels already made this early will be missed and we could certainly find ourselves without a room in the inns on Christmas week. The only place we would skip starting thru the western coastal route would be Baguio in the event that we got detoured in Sagada. Fortunately, the hotel in Baguio did not require a deposit.
The final route is as follows:
Leg 1
Route : Manila – Bulacan – Pampanga – Tarlac – Pangasinan – La Union
Travel Date : Dec. 25, 2007
Estimated Distance – 270 Kilometers to San Juan
Approximate Driving Time: 6 Hours
Leg 2
Route : La Union – Ilocos Sur – Ilocos Norte
Travel Date : Dec. 26, 2007
Estimated Distance – 290 Kilometers to Pagudpud
Approximate Driving Time : 4 Hours
Leg 3
Route : Ilocos Norte – Cagayan – Isabela – Nueva Viscaya – Ifugao – Mt. Province
Travel Date : Dec. 28, 2007
Estimated Distance – 490 Kilometers to Sagada
Approximate Driving Time : 6 Hours
Route : Mt. Province – Benguet
Estimated Distance: 130 Kilometers to Baguio
Route : Benguet – Pangasinan – Tarlac –Pampanga – Bulacan – Manila
Travel Date : Dec.31, 2007
Estimated Distance – 240 Kilometer to Las Pinas
Approximate Driving Time – 6 Hours
Total Distance Traveled – 1,420 Kilometers
Leg 4 Alternate
Route : Mt. Province – Nueva Viscaya – Nueva Ecija – Bulacan – Manila
Estimated Distance – 410 Kilometers to Las Pinas
Approximate Driving Time – 12 Hours
Total Distance Traveled – 1,460 Kilometers
T minus 37 days.
written by  Joey Carlotta on November 18, 2007 from Manila, Philippines
from the travel blog: Northern Luzon Loop (CANCELED)

Sugar Beach
Sipalay, Philippines
Another popular beach destination is Sugar Beach in Sipalay, Negros Occidental. Sipalay is about 4 hours drive from Bacolod on the way to Hinoba-an, the last town of Negros Occidental before crossing over to Oriental. As with Lakawon, there is a dirt road access to a parking lot where you get a banca ride to the beach. Unlike Lakawon, Sugar Beach is on the main coast of Negros. It is a short banca ride to this secluded cove of near-white sugary sand. Coral heads fringe both ends of the cove and span the beach. The entire rear of the beach is bordered by coral hills making the place inaccessible to cars. There are a number of resorts, mostly owned by foreigners, and we stayed in the Takatuka Dive Resort. Takatuka is owned and managed by Swiss brothers and their wives. The resort is very colorful and fancifully decorated. The isolation and seclusion of Sugar Beach makes it ideal for real rest and relaxation. I am just sorry that I did not take more pictures.
Welcome to Takatuka
Takatuka Resort
Takatuka Dive Boat
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 13, 2008 from Sipalay, Philippines
from the travel blog: Previous Trips - Visayas

Day 3
Mariveles, Philippines
With business taken care of early and no other meetings scheduled until later in the day and early the next, the team and I decided to take a side trip to Mariveles in Bataan. We gathered that the drive would be 2 hours to get there. We left Subic at 10 AM exiting the Tipo Gate and entering the SCTEX for a short hop to the Dinalupihan exit.
This is one heck of drive. There road is highly elevated allowing magnificent views of the ocean on your left and ahead while on your right you see the majestic peaks that make up most of the backbone of the Bataan Peninsula. The road was not particularly great and this was obviously due to the many fuel tankers coming to and from the refineries. The Death March markers guide you all the way. In an hour and a half we were on a zigzag road heading down to the Bataan Export Processing Zone (BEPZA).
After looking around and deciding that there were no promising hotels or resorts in the area, we spotted a trade fair in the office grounds of the BEPZA. Being with two women, we just had to stop. What promised to be export overruns of the factories in the facility there turned out to be junk from China available in Divisoria and most tianges in Manila. Still, the girls came out of there with bags of supposedly Christmas shopping. We had lunch in a seaside restaurant and were on our way back by 2 PM.
The seaward view is dominated by Coregidor Island and the distant shore and mountains are actually Cavite. Coregidor Island is so close that you can hire a banca to get there. There are several spots along the road that advertise this facility. Heading back, the road level climbs again past the zigzag and there is a place to stop to take in a fantastic and unobstructed view of the island. The milestone for our stop was kilometer 7 of the Death March trail. There is a good concrete road heading down to the shore along which we parked. Behind you will be the equally fantastic sights of the mountain range of Bataan.
written by  Joey Carlotta on November 20, 2008 from Mariveles, Philippines
from the travel blog: Bolinao – Subic – Mariveles

Quezon Province
Real, Philippines
After Paete, there is a turnoff in Famy to the east that leads to Real and Infanta in the province of Quezon. There is another route from Antipolo going through the Marcos Highway which I hear is just as great. I am planning to drive this route the next chance I get. Mind you, this is a trip all on its own.
The drive over the Sierra Madre mountains was fantastic with a lot of twisties. The roads were relatively good with a few eroded patches. The first sight of the Pacific Ocean is awesome. We drove as far as Infanta were the road ended and backtracked to Real for a picnic lunch by the sea.
The are a number of resorts but the beaches are not that great. This does not detract from the ambiance of the place however. There was plenty fresh seafood for sale in Real as this is a major fishing area. On a sad note, this area was devastated during a storm not too long ago and I would like to see how the place has recovered since.
Joey and Mom in picnic hut
Joey and Miren hamming it up.
Dig in, folks!
Timmy and Yaya
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 19, 2008 from Real, Philippines
from the travel blog: Previous Trips - Laguna Lake Loop

Happy Valley
Hinoba-an, Philippines
And finally there is Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental. Among other reasons, this place is special to us because it is the home town of the family of my wife, the Bilbao’s. Hinoba-an is the last town of Negros Occidental to the south of Bacolod. Suffice it to say, it is very, very laid back.
Power and the paved national highway only got to Hinoba-an in the last decade. There is very little industry except for fishing and agriculture. There was a big lumber concession that basically denuded the mountains where there was also large scale mining which likewise stopped some time ago. Most of the town was made up of large haciendas owned by a few families and these were mostly broken up by land reform programs. My mother-in-law maintains her home there and most of their family retains landholdings which includes most of Happy Valley, the best beach area.
There are a few resorts with modest accommodations. The more popular one is called Happy Valley Resort which is owned by relatives of Miren. Hinoba-an is very popular with the Bacolod crowd but the distance will require at least an overnight stay. Since our last trip there, I heard that more resorts and vacation houses were being built. On one hand, this should be welcomed developments to the town. On another, there goes another paradise.
View south from Sipalay lighthouse
Inaki, Timmy and Nina
Before Hinoba-an is Sipalay. On a hill by the sea there is lighthouse offering a stunning view.
Happy Valley Brick House
Happy Valley Sea Wind Cottage
Happy Valley Wind Blown Cottage
Happy Valley Garden Huts
Happy Valley Resort had about 5 structures with quite a number of airconditioned rooms. There are a number of Dream TV dishes around but I am not sure if all the rooms have televisions. Some of the cottages have cooking facilities and there is a grill that can be used. Meals and refreshments can be arranged with the resort staff but there is no formal restaurant.
Beach view south
Beach view north
The sand in Happy Valley is golden brown. There are no corals fronting the resort and the sea floor slopes down gradually making it ideal for kids.
Neska Bilbao
Chabeli Bilbao
The Bilbao-Carlotta and Alba-Bilbao Cousins
We often vacation with my brother-in-law Jimmy Bilbao, his wife Joana, and their 2 beautiful, charming and very intelligent girls Neska and Chabeli.
Dinner
Roasting Marshmallows
Nina and I are flying to Bacolod for Holy Week to spend the holidays with rest of the family and a trip to Hinoba-an is included. We are staying on after Holy Week for the graduation rites of Timmy.
Miren and I hope to retire here someday.
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 14, 2008 from Hinoba-an, Philippines

The City of Smiles
Bacolod, Philippines
We were off to Bacolod after 5 glorious days of doing nothing and getting properly rested. The recent availability of wireless Internet access in the area made it just perfect giving me email and contact with the office. The trip to Bacolod took 5 hours on another Ceres bus. I never tire of the sights in Sipalay. The bus also entered the old mining town of Maricalum to pick up passengers there. Travelling this route, one must remember of sit on the left side of the bus in the morning and the right side of the bus in the afternoon to avoid the sun. Countryside soon gave way to commercial buildings and ox carts to tricycles the closer we got to Bacolod City.
It was pleasant being back in Bacolod after some time. To enjoy Bacolod one must learn to let go of the need to always be on the move and to do something common among city folks. This is the only way to go with the flow and the flow is slow, very slow. And to appreciate Bacolod one must like to eat. There is really little else to. The highlights of each day are the meals that one takes and it not uncommon to be discussing where the next meal will be had even before the current is finished. Definitely a place after my own heart. On this trip we had the chance to catch up with some old friends Toto and Leilah and we had dinner in a new place called Louise. I made an entry in FOOD TRIP about Louise as well as the L'Fisher lobby restaurant, Ripples.
I might also add that Bacolod is my favorite place to shop. They have all the regular shops in the malls but there are still the boutiques of old that I always check out. I got all my overrun Nautica shirts in a shop called Mix and on this trip got a pair of the lastest style of Sperry Topsiders which I have not seen in Manila in another called Pelts, both in the Robinsons Mall or Rob as the locals call it. With all the old houses and affluence of the past, Bacolod is also a good place to get antiques. For sure, these people have taste and style in a class of their own.
The trip soon came to end and it did not feel like we were gone for 10 days. It did not feel like we had done much but that was the whole point of the trip. Still, we had fun including the trip from Dumaguete to Hinoba-an. Getting back to Manila on a Saturday gave me a chance to regain my bearings before getting back to work. The trip was also intended as a break after the worries and emotional upheavals related to the illness and death of my mother so she was never far from my mind. Since my wife is primarily responsible for the care and welfare of the kids, I found myself with nothing and no one to worry about for a change. This left a big empty feeling within. A consoling thought is that she has gone ahead to a different kind of trip and adventure which we will all follow at some point in time. It was time to let go.
Happy trails!
Guimaras afar
Bulata afar
Dining in Louise with Friends
Louise Dining Room
written by  Joey Carlotta on May 28, 2008 from Bacolod, Philippines

Nueva Ecija
Guimba, Philippines
After Cabanatuan heading north you will pass the town of Talavera and then you come to the fork leading either to San Jose and further north on to the Cagayan Valley or west to Guimba where we were heading. Guimba is a nice rural town and sort of a crossroad. On the map it is on a major road that ends up in Paniqui in Tarlac via Pura and Ramos, which was our intended destination to proceed to Baguio. Unfortunately or fortunately, it was the town fiesta and the main roads of the town were closed and we got confused after a detour and ended up taking the road going to Talugtog immediately to the north of Guimba. Again, the few signs that were available were confusing. We backtracked to Guimba where we asked for directions but we once again took a wrong turn and ended up on a road practically adjacent to the road to Talugtog. There was some discussion going on between myself and my passengers and it was nearing 5 PM and I was getting tired so I made a command decision to push on the route we were on which showed on the map as ending up in Rosales and Carmen in Pangasinan bypassing not just the whole of Tarlac but a major busy portion of Pangasinan as well. The state of the roads was a major concern which turned out to be unfounded. Surprisingly the road was well posted with signs to Baguio which was very reassuring. Note that the road to Talugtog was not entirely a mistake. Upon reaching Talugtog, you turn left and end up on the road going to Cuyapo and onto Rosales. Turning right on Talugtog brings you back east to Munoz past the fork after Talavera.
After Carmen you just have Urdanta to contend with and then you are home free. There is an alternate route from Villasis that ends up as far as Pozorrubio but we did not want to get caught in unfamiliar roads in the dark. We stopped in Sison at around 5:30 PM for a leg-stretch and arrived in Baguio at 7 PM.
written by  Joey Carlotta on March 6, 2008 from Guimba, Philippines

Taal
The road turned out to be relatively good with only a short span unpaved. It passed numerous chicken farms and orchards. Fortunately it was not raining because there was a river crossing. The road was very narrow specially the stretches deeply carved out of the adobe hills. It was with a sigh of relief when we returned to the main road where our guide got off P100 richer for his service. We wouldn’t have made it without him. The detour made us skip the town proper of Cuenca where freshly roasted Barako coffee beans can be bought. From there it was a short drive through the towns of Alitagtag and Sta. Teresita before entering the town proper of Taal. Caution must be taken not to follow the signs to Manila via Lemery as this will skip Taal. If you are into knives or want to buy a souvenir, stop at one of the many roadside stores selling fan knives (balisong) and other bladed items.
Taal Road
Taal is historical with many preserved old houses. The massive Basilica sits up on a hill dominating the town and overlooking the Balayan Bay. Taal is also known for cloth embroidery. There are several museums and heritage homes that can be visited. We arrived in Taal shortly before noon but we wanted to stick to our lunch objective in Tagaytay so we were off again after a short prayer in the Basilica. There are several relatively good restaurants in Taal. Their speciality is the soupy and beefy bulalo and tawilis, a small fish which apparently only grows in Taal Lake.
Taal Basilica Doorway
San Martin
From Taal you enter Lemery and you will have the Balayan Bay immediately to your left. This road ends up in Nasugbu. There are 3 turnoffs after entering Lemery, the first backtracking to Alitagtag and Sta. Teresita bypassing Taal, the next going to Agoncillo and onto Talisay and the third in Calaca going to Tagaytay. The last turnoff is the one you wish to take. On a previous trip also with mom, we decided to take the Agoncillo road that hugs the coast of Taal Lake and ends up in Talisay below Tagaytay. This route is quite isolated but the close up views of the volcano island are spectacular. The road was very rough to non-existent and put my 4X4 to good use. Suffice it to say that mom, who was in good health then, almost had a heart attack. The drive took twice the amount of time as compared to using the regular route. It was awesome.
Taal Basilica Interior
Taal Basilica Facade
written by  Joey Carlotta on February 24, 2008 from Batangas, Philippines

Tagaytay
Cavite, Philippines
You start a gradual climb immediately after the turnoff in Calaca towards Tagaytay. This stretch is about 40 kilometers without gasoline stations so make sure you load up in Lemery if you need to. The road is well paved and very scenic. Watch out for the theme park with a fairytale castle halfway up. The road ends near the boundary of Batangas and Cavite with a left turn leading to Nasugbu. Traffic on the Tagaytay road was quite heavy with many cars parked on either side. We had a 1 PM lunch in Diners which is always pleasant. We wanted to have some coffee before heading home but all the regular places were full to brimming. The rest of the way was light and fast and we got back home by 3:30 PM.
Tagaytay Countryside
Road to Tagaytay
written by  Joey Carlotta on February 24, 2008 from Cavite, Philippines

Mountain Province
Baguio, Philippines
Reviewing our trip, I would suggest the following route going either to Baguio or La Union from Manila:
At the end of NLEX turn right (not left going to Dau) going to Concepcion. This is a well posted alternate route going through La Paz and Victoria. After Victoria is Pura where you have a choice to turn left ending up in Panigui or right going towards Guimba. Shortly before Guimba you turn left towards Cuyapo and Rosales. At this point you have bypassed the roads of Tarlac. In Rosales you can turn left to Carmen or right through Sta. Maria, Asingan and San Manuel to bypass Urdaneta. In San Manuel, you turn left going to Binalonan. There is another turn that takes you all the way to Pozzorubio but my map does not show details of that area.
Rodel Andaya, Liezel Javellana & Kathy Sulit
Hotel in Baguio
After taking care of business in Baguio, we left the following day for Manila departing shortly before 10 AM. We drove straight through to Tarlac and arrived in Luisita at 12:30 PM without taking any detours as the traffic was light. We left Tarlac at about 2:00 PM and had lunch in a stop along the NLEX. I was home by about 5:30 PM grateful for missing the traffic on EDSA.
It's funny how everything seem to get smaller as you get older and (hopefully) wiser. You wonder how your family fit in a small house that seemed so large when you lived in it as a child. Or a recollection of your grandfather as a tall and imposing figure when your mother tells you he was barely over five and a half feet in height. As a young boy traveling north, I used to get the impression that the plains of Central Luzon went on forever to the distant mountains far away in the horizon. This last trip has made me realize that the Philippines is not very big at all. More importantly, it has brought home the point that we must take care and make proper use of the land because there isn't too much of it. I wonder what my grandchildren will see of this land when their time comes to visit it.
Happy Trails!
written by  Joey Carlotta on March 6, 2008 from Baguio, Philippines

25 December 2007, Day 1
San Juan, Philippines
Merry Christmas to all!
We finally pushed off at 3 AM. This came about when my mother who lives with me opted to stay over with an aunt who she was going with to a Christmas lunch in a cousins house. The original plan was to spend Christmas eve with her and drop her off at my aunts place on our way out of town which would have been around 6 AM. She has been operated on twice this year and had been found to have cancer so long trips are out for her atleast for the moment. Besides, the Suzuki is too small to fit the whole family plus her. She is under medication and she seems to be recuperating well but you never know with cancer. For this reason alone, we decided to spend Christmas and New Year in Manila rather than in our home in Bacolod. I hope to get a bigger car, a Ford Everest, next year so she can come along on trips when she is feeling much better and can stand the long drives. Anyway, KM 1 on my trip odometer was in the Shell gas station outside of BF Resort in Las Pinas where I filled up. The streets were empty considering the hour plus the fact that it was Christmas morning. I drove up towards Zapote, then down Coastal Road and Roxas Boulevard and turned into EDSA. In 15 minutes we were crossing Ayala. It was showering and streets were slick. After passing SM North somewhere in front of the big Iglesia ni Cristo church, a taxi comes out of u-turn slot and runs directly in front of a Fortuner we were following. Before I realized what had happened, the Fortuner hit the taxi by the rear right door and the taxi was spinning around in front of us. I jumped on my brakes and started sliding and managed barely to miss the Fortuner as I passed it on the left. We passed this surreal accident as the taxi was coming out of its spin. Freaky! I hope nobody was hurt seriously. Inaki swears that the airbags of the Fortuner did not deploy. Not a very good start for a trip. We were all pretty shaken by the incident so we took a pee-stop in the first gas station inside NLEX and I had a badly needed cigarette to calm my nerves. We exited NLEX by about 4:30 AM. The odometer read 35 KM upon entering NLEX and registered 115 upon exit.
We took the Dau exit and passed thru Bamban and entered Tarlac. I wanted to have some coffee in Starbucks but Luisita was still completely closed down at that hour. The rest of Tarlac went smoothly until about 5:30 AM when I noticed what appeared to be smoke drifting in the air outside. We had just entered Pangasinan when I noticed that visibility was getting worse and I realized that there was heavy fog all over. High beam would just make the light bounce all over the place so I put on my blinkers. There was also heavy condensation on the windshield. My windshield washer run out so we stopped in a gas station somewhere in Villasis and I bought a bottle of filtered water to fill my windshield washer. This went on for some time and we crossed the long bridge in Urdaneta with 2 to 3 meters of visibility. It was about 5:30 AM and the sun was still nowhere to be seen. It was really quite disconcerting and disorienting. We were passing Pozzorubio before we knew it and stopped for breakfast at about 6 AM in Sison before the fork to Baguio and La Union. The sun had finally started to rise and it burned the rest of the fog away. That was really eerie to say the least. I have never experienced anything like it in all my years of driving up and down that road. We pushed off after about an hour and made San Juan at around 8 AM.
Surf's Up in San Juan!
The San Juan Surf Resort was just starting to stir when we arrived. There were some locals still asleep on the tables and a number of foreigners having coffee and staring at the waves. As indicated by its name, the purpose of the resort was evident from all the surf boards neatly stacked around the beachfront of the resort. And the waves were what this place was all about. They varied from 1 meter to a good 3 meters depending on where they were cresting. I also noticed that they came in very close to each other. The resort is located at the far left end of a long and shallow cove. There are corals on the beach extending to the water in the immediate left of the resort. It was too early and rather cold so there were no surfers in the water yet but a number of people clad in designer Roxy and Rip Curl outfits were getting ready, limbering up or otherwise transfixed by the breakers as if hypnotized or otherwise contemplating which part of the beach to enter the water. I consider myself to be a beach person comfortable with the ocean and surfing, swimming and even scuba diving in it. This was definitely no place for a swim. I remember this stretch of beach when we lived in San Fernando in the 70’s and you wouldn’t find even the locals in the water. I don’t even remember seeing a banca then or in this trip. Anyway, the stop in San Juan was suggested by Nina who has been down here several times with her friends for surfing. We were hoping that the other 2 kids get into it as well.
Danger! No Swimming in San Juan.
Having arrived too early, we availed of a spare room and the girls went promptly to sleep. The room was located in the 2nd floor of 1 of the 5 or 6 structures of the resort. The room was small enough to fit 2 beds and a toilet. The room we had reserved was in the ground floor and had additional kitchen space, not that my wife intended to do any cooking. The resort seems to have grown in spurts with the other structures as afterthoughts to maximize the space. The original structures must have been on the beachfront where there is a restaurant cum front desk with an adjoining area with tables and chairs. There is an open-air loft with gym equipment. Beside this is a 2 storey structure with a surf shop on the ground and what would appear to be the owners residence on top. Immediately behind these and away from the beachfront are 3 or 4 cottages including a dormitory-type building. I discerned these to be the original structures because they all had the same architecture and design as well as nipa roofs. The remaining 3 structure are all concrete and 2 of these appeared to be condo units probably for long-term use. If I were to rate the resort, I would give it a 2 out of 5. I can’t speak for the food because we never ate there but it did not look too promising.
Beach view at San Juan, La Union
I must have had residual adrenaline from the drive because I was wide awake and all keyed up. Inaki was likewise awake so we decided to walk the beach towards Lingsat where our first house was when we lived there in the 70’s. I was well aware that Lingsat was inside the bay while San Juan was outside but I imagined that we would have to walk 4 to 6 coves for about 30 minutes one way to find the house. Unfortunately, this was shy by no less than 100%. About halfway and on the tip of the bay, we saw a large barge stuck on the reef not far from the beach. It was loaded with some sort of black colored ore. The waves were crashing onto its exposed side and sending cascades of water over it. The waves had obviously washed some of the ore away as it littered the beach and the shallow water and there were scores of people collecting them most likely to sell back to the owner. There was a makeshift Coast Guard detachment on the beach closest to the barge probably assigned there to guard it against looters.
Off to catch some waves in San Juan.
So after an hours walk, we found the house. It looked pretty much the same except for the sea wall which covered most of the ground floor. We saw a lot of wave action when we lived here. The sea wall used to be level to the ground floor and this was elevated already by about 2 meters above the beach. The problem was that the owner of the house built too close to the waterline with about 2 to 3 meters of actual beach left depending on the tide. During good weather, the water was as calm as a pond with hardly a ripple coming to shore. This was completely different during the monsoon when we would see wave tops looking out of our 2nd floor living room. In fact we had to evacuate on several occasions to the Lepanto guesthouse in Poro Point where we utlimately transferred to. Despite this, there were a lot of good memories from living here. The beach was very rocky but this made for excellent snorkeling and we spent a lot of hours exploring the surrounding reefs and seafloor. I was like living in a playground. I remember vividly one summer when I had some cousins visiting, as usually is the case when you have a beach home, and we decided to walk to Poro Point in the other side of the bay which was quite a distance past the town of San Fernando. After swimming and diving off the pier most of the afternoon, it was time head back home and the walk looked so far away. Applying the logic that a straight line is the shortest distance between 2 points, I came up with the grand plan to swim across the bay straight home. Now you have to realize that the bay of San Fernando is no small cove. Large ocean-going vessels come to dock here. You can imagine how it felt when we started to tire right in the middle of that body of water with the sun getting lower in the horizon. I was the eldest at 15 of the 6 or 7 kids in our small band merry boys and the realization of what I had gotten myself and these children into started to register in my care-free brain. I made light of the situation and kept on joking to keep everyone in good spirits. I saw a big ship coming in and remembered that sharks followed them in as they dumped their garbage before entering the bay to keep from paying to get this hauled in port. So swim we did until we got home and I proceeded to kick myself for being so stupid. Thank God nothing happened. During dinner that night the kids were talking about the adventure and my dad looked out the window towards Poro Point and then turned to look at me with an expression that spoke volumes. Anyway, this present stunt of walking from San Juan to Lingsat had to be repeated in the reverse and it was getting close to noon. I called for several stops to rest and cool off in the water but I was practically on all fours by the time we got back to the resort. I seem to still get myself into the same kind of predicaments at this age. When will I ever learn?
Joey and Miren in San Juan
Everyone was up and hungry so we decided to head into San Fernando for lunch. While waiting for the girls to get ready, Inaki and I were waiting by the beach. A sudden flurry of action caught our attention and 2 local surfers rushed to the water with their boards. We looked over and saw that 2 small girls had gone a bit too far in the water and were in trouble with the waves. The waves were not particularly that high but they came one after the other and this was overwhelming the children. The smaller of the 2 was also getting carried farther and farther away. The children were saved by the mercy of the Lord and the quick reaction of the 2 surfers and a sign was promptly posted on the beach declaring the danger and prohibiting swimmers. Any thoughts of swimming on our part were quickly dispelled. We had lunch at McDonalds, got some cash, loaded gas and bought some supplies for the trip to Pagudpud the following day. The day had caught up with me by the time we got back to the resort and I slept most of the afternoon. We drove to Poro Point after my nap to complete my nostalgic trip and had dinner in the resort next door and then it was TV and an early night for all of us.
Carlotta Family ready for dinner
Upon loading of gas in San Fernando in preparation for trip to Pagudpud, odometer reading was 355.4 kilometers which included Manila to San Juan plus 1.5 roundtrips from San Juan to San Fernando and 1 roundtrip from San Juan to Poro Point. Total gas reloaded was 37.2 liters. Mileage was 9.5 kilometers per liter. Not bad for a 5 and half year old, 2.5 liter, 6 cylinder, 4X4 SUV. Total expenses so far was P7,059 including actual gas consumption, resort, meals and some snacks, groceries and supplies.
Nina for Ray Ban
Apt reading for Timmy
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 1, 2008 from San Juan, Philippines
from the travel blog: 2007 Carlotta X'Mas Family Road Trip

27 December 2007, Day 3
Pagudpud, Philippines
I am an early riser and this day was no exception. I was looking forward to a dip and spending a relaxing day by the beach, maybe catch some rays. I got into trunks and a t-shirt and made my way quietly out the room trying not to wake everyone else. Before I had the door completely open, a cold and wet gust of air hit me full in the face. I couldn’t believe it! There was a storm raging outside! It was completely overcast and the rain was even blowing horizontally! So much for the dip and the rays. I went back in to put on my sweat suit and carried out the coffee maker and breakfast basket for a quick cup and a bite on the cottage porch that was has drenched. The rest of the troop woke up soon enough and it was a sight looking at their stunned faces peeking out of the room. This is the first time anything like it ever happened to us on the beach. It happened once on a trip to Baguio but never to the beach.
This must have been 5 or 6 years ago when Miren had to go to Baguio for work and we decided to make a family weekend of it. After checking in, we proceeded to Burnham Park for some bicycle riding for the kids who were much younger and smaller then. It started to rain and did not stop until we left. We went down to Asin on an errand for Miren and the fog was so thick you saw oncoming cars when they were practically infront of you. The Spice Girls were all the rage then and had them on all the time so much so that we failed to listen to any news. It turned out that most of Manila was flooded and we ended up sleeping in the car in the parking lot of McDonalds in Greenbelt in Makati. We got back home after being in the car for about 24 hours. We even had the car broken into, a side window smashed in, while parked along Session Road in Baguio so that trip is fondly referred to as The Vacation from Hell.
Anyway, it was actually colder outside than it was in the room so everyone escaped back to the warmth of the beds and blankets and some TV for entertainment until the power went out. With the power went the water as well. The beach was no place to be so Inaki and I played some more pool. Lunch time came along soon and we ate in the restaurant of the Apo Idon which turned out to be better than the outlet we ate in the night before. There was still no power nor any water after lunch so we were starting to consider if it was better to just leave. The problem was that we would have to take our chances with room availability anywhere we went. Amazingly, there were more and more people arriving. So we decided to stick it out and take our chances where we were.
The resort was short-handed due to the holidays and those who were around were very apologetic and even offered to fetch some water for our baths. With nothing much else to do, it was a nap after cleaning up as best as we could. More pool after the nap and the power came back on by later afternoon. Dinner was had again in the Apo Idon restaurant and then more pool and TV and another early night for all again.
Total expense for the day was P4,939.
Timmy in Pagudpud
Nina and Timmy in Pagudpud
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 4, 2008 from Pagudpud, Philippines
from the travel blog: 2007 Carlotta X'Mas Family Road Trip

By noon on our last day we had finished with business and it was time to head home. We could have stayed on a bit more but I wanted to avoid the rush hour traffic on EDSA. These last few kilometers always takes a toll on me specially after a long trip and several days away from the comfort and familiarity of home. There was a slow down near the exit of NLEX because of an overturned truck but EDSA, Coastal Road and Zapote-Alabang proved light and I was relaxing on my LA-Z Boy by 4 PM.
I start to feel the aches and sores from the drive coming on as the adrenaline from the drive recedes but it is with a sense of satisfaction as I review the details of the trips. We achieved our intended objectives plus a good time was had to boot. Personally, I traveled a new road, visited a new place and saw the changes or lack thereof in the places I had been to before. All in all a very satisfying and productive trip.
Getting back to those tricycles, please heed this word of caution. It was not bad enough that they were going about 5 kph on a national road, I noticed that they would intentionally put on their brakes to further slow you down. When waiting for oncoming traffic to pass before overtaking these menaces, your tendency is to tailgate the pests. Don’t! They will time it to slow down further right when you are about ready to pass them. You will be fortunate if you have quick eyes and reflexes and these will only work with the tricycles that have working tail lights. I noted that in most stretches there are narrow outer lanes which would appear to be intended for the use of these tricycles but they insist on staying in the very center of the road. This is a very dangerous problem which I think demands the attention of the concerned authorities. These are accidents waiting to happen if they haven’t happened already. SOMETHING MUST BE DONE ABOUT THIS! BAN TRICYCLES FROM NATIONAL ROADS!

BF Resort Village
6 hours including stops in Taal and Tagaytay, 190 kilometers and about P1,000 for food and gas was time, effort and money well spent. Making mom happy and spending quality time together was pricless. I don’t know how she will be in the time to come and how many more road trips she will be able to go on as she is appears to be getting frailer by the day but I cherish the all times we have been able to go out of town specially those with just the two of us. I will miss this road trip buddy of mine but will always have her in my heart where ever I go. To those thinking about it, I urge you not to hesitate. Life is too short so heed the road that beckons and take a loved one along. And remember, when in doubt, stop and ask. It's better than going around in circles.
Happy trails!
My Road Trip Buddy
written by  Joey Carlotta on February 24, 2008 from Las Pinas, Philippines

29 December 2007, Day 5
Baguio, Philippines
Everyone, including me, woke up late for a change. All that walking and climbing steps has taken a toll on all. We had breakfast in the lobby restaurant of the hotel and I had the car vacuumed and washed while the gang got ready. It smelled like something had died in the car and there was sand and litter all over. All were ready by the time I was done and we were off to do the tourist thing. First stop – Mines View Park for pictures with Douglas, the Saint Bernard, and the pink pony. Unfortunately, the place was packed and the only parking options would require more walking so that was out. Down the road towards Wright Park was the Good Shepherd but we couldn’t even get in the gate with so many cars parked inside already. Best bet was John Hay for some proper coffee in Starbucks and shopping and lunch in Mile Hi as it was getting late in the morning already. John Hay was just as congested but it was much easier to park.
Joey, Timmy and Miren on Session Road
I dropped the troop near the market after lunch and I headed back to the hotel for some shut eye. Having lived in Baguio, I maintain that the 2 best things to do there are eat and sleep. We first took up residence in Baguio when my father took a job with Lepanto in San Fernando, La Union in the 70’s. Already, the elders were moaning about the dwindling pine trees, over-development, traffic and influx of lowlanders. They must be rolling in their graves. Still, I miss those times.
Inaki on Session Road
They got back by late afternoon with vegetables and fruits, souvenirs and ukay-ukay finds. There was just enough time to get ready for dinner with the Kathy Sulit, who I work with, and her family. Her husband, Caloy, works for the SEC and he had his turn with their cooperatives’ vacation condo which is located in a subdivision along Kennon Road. We bought some dessert along the way and found the house within half an hour. Caloy and Kathy have 3 beautiful children, Trisha, Zoe and Fiona. Fiona, or Pipay as she is fondly called, provided most of the entertainment. We had barbecue and chopsuey and Caloy and I put a dent on a fifth of scotch. It was quite late by the time we called it a night but the company was enjoyed and welcomed and a good time was had by all.
Nina on Session Road
Total expense for the day including shopping was P6,940.
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 6, 2008 from Baguio, Philippines

Pagudpud, Philippines
Nina had arranged the night before to go surfing with Inaki in the morning. Timmy opted to stay in bed. They were going to Bacnotan, the town next to San Juan, where the waves were tamer and more suited for beginners. The surf spot in Bacnotan is beside the Holcim cement plan which is several coves from where the resort is located and barely visible from San Juan. I took Miren to San Fernando for some business with the bank and we were back in the resort by 11 PM as the surfers were heading back from Bacnotan. After settling our bill and loading the car, we were off for Pagudpud by 12:30 PM. We had leftover Christmas ham and cheese for breakfast so it was going to be a late lunch in Vigan.
Pagudpud at night
As mentioned in the early part of this blog, the towns start to get more provincial and further apart after San Fernando. Driving in these parts has always been pleasant with less traffic and congested population centers. Considering that our last trip here was a good seven years ago, things have definitely changed. First off, the tricycle menace has reached further north. I remember the time when tricycles were completely banned from national highways. They are a pure pest to driving. It specially infuriates me to high heavens when they putter along at about 5 kilometers per hour as if by intention. The towns have also started to expand and have become much busier. We noticed that all of them up to Pagudpud had new town halls and freshly painted churches usually close by. A sure sign of progress or a ploy for “pogi” points by the local politicos. And most of the larger towns now have malls with popular stores and food outlets! Where has my paradise gone?
Timmy, Inaki, Nina and Joey in Pagudpud resort
We reached Vigan at about 3 PM with appetites stoked. The place was hot as usual and much more crowded than I remember or care for. Our favorite restaurant was packed and the waiter told us that it was going to take a while before we got our food so we took this as a cue to walk around and look for a fast food outlet, the operative word being “fast”. We entered this rather large 2 storey complex and were amazed by the number of shops and shoppers. We finally settled for Chowking. The complex is right across the stalls selling ukoy and empanadas but it was so hot and dusty and the girls did not seem to be in the mood for anything so touristy. It certainly lost its appeal with all the surrounding modernity. Lunch was over quickly and we were off in an hour or so. We didn’t even bother to check out the old streets and houses.
Miren, Timmy, Inaki and Joey in Pagudpud resort
I wanted to get to Pagudpud before it got dark but it looked like we were not going to make it. We loaded gas in the town of Santa right before Laoag as the sun was going over the horizon. It was completely dark by the time we drove into Laoag and had a bit of difficulty finding the road out and onto Pagudpud. The rest of the drive was done in compete darkness and total isolation save for a few cars and dimly lit small towns and barangays. It was so dark we could not make out anything to our left or right and mostly had only our headlights to see where we were going. There were a few souls around when we got to the small town center of Pagudpud and it had started to shower. Luckily, directions to the resorts are well posted and we finally got to the Evangeline cottages at about 7:30 PM.
Pagudpud beach
The Evangeline cottages are part of a larger complex that includes the Terrarika and Apo Idon resorts, all owned by the same family. The cottages are in the back of the resort and near the entrance while the multi-storied structures of the other resorts are in the middle and front of the compound. All have their dining areas by the beach where we had dinner on the first night. The cottages were not bad and I really preferred being detached from the rest of the resort. It has an added advantage of an adjoining recreation center which mainly consisted of 2 billiard tables and the unavoidable karaoke machine. Luckily, the cottage was insulated and far enough that we didn’t have to suffer the diva wannabees. As it had started to rain in earnest and the wind picked up as well, the billiard table came in quite handy and we put to good use the Minnesota Fats cue stick I bought Inaki for Christmas. The girls went to stroll in the beach while Inaki and I played some pool but they came back almost immediately declaring that it was to cold and wet. We assumed that it was just a passing weather condition and we couldn’t have been more mistaken.
Total distance traveled to Pagudpud was 659.5 kilometers. Total expenses up to the end of the day was approx P6,799.
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 3, 2008 from Pagudpud, Philippines

Epilogue
This vacation was certainly far from ideal with the freaky accident on EDSA right on the onset of the trip, the eerie and unexpected fog in Tarlac and Pangasinan, the near-drowning in San Juan and the inexplicable stormy weather in Pagudpud. It definitely rivals the “Vacation From Hell” recalled earlier. But even that was enjoyed as this one was. The kids are much older but their personalities are mostly the same if not more pronounced. The same number of near-flare-ups between the kids occurred from differences of opinion and assertions of character. I tended to be more patient, hoping for amicable resolutions, before putting a stop to things unless they got out of hand. But there were more lighthearted moments with joking and laughing as well as serious discussions and considerations.
With their current ages come greater concerns and prospects. Nina is already working after graduating from DLSU and agreed on this trip to go to Canada with Mirens sister after she visits on July this year. Inaki is struggling with some challenges in his life at the moment that can affect his life in the future which I hope will be in Canada as well. And Timmy is about to graduate from high school in a couple of months and is preoccupied with what to take and where to go for college.
Miren and I are getting older as well. I can’t tell you how old Miren is under threat of bodily harm and the gentleman that I am but I am turning 50 in a couple of months. Definitely, trips like this last one are getting too tiring for me. Miren, shame on her, didn’t even make it up the tower of the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. We both also have our own sets of worries and dreams but are excited and looking forward to what life has to throw at us. We will be 25 years married in another year.
So, was the trip worth driving 1,332 kilometers and spending nearly P37,000 in 6 days while withstanding the discomforts associated with being away from home? Definitely! And I would do it again in a heartbeat. No amount of money can buy the memories you make so such trips. The images that you take with your minds eye and store in your heart will outlive any photo you take on film or using a digital camera. And it has become a tradition, a trademark if you will, of our family which I hope the kids will carry on with their own families some day as both Miren and I have.
So, as the late, great Dale Rogers wrote and sang,
Some trails are happy ones,
Others are blue.
It's the way you ride the trail that counts,
Here's a happy one for you.
Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Happy trails to you, keep smilin' until then.
Who cares about the clouds when we're together?
Just sing a song and bring the sunny weather.
Happy trails to you 'till we meet again.
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 8, 2008 from Las Pinas, Philippines

Baguio, Philippines
It was still wet and windy the next day but the weather was definitely improving. We made breakfast of what was left of the Christmas ham and cheese and started to pack. The kids went to the beach in the hope of a swim but came back with souvenirs and some pictures. We left at 9:20 AM. This time we would get to see the sights between Laoag and Pagudpud which we passed 2 days ago in the dark and we weren’t disappointed.
Nina, Inaki and Timmy with Bangui Windmill background
Joey and Miren on Bangui Windmill Farm view deck
The first stop was the windmill farm in Bangui about 30 minutes after leaving Pagudpud. You can get a close up view of some of the windmills from the road but the best is from a view deck a bit further down the road. There are 7 or 8 windmills which, together with the countryside scenery, present a good background for photos. The view deck is also a store where souvenirs are also sold.
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse marker.
Not much further down the road there is the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos. Coming from Pagudpud you must keep an eye out for it. The lighthouse is high up the hill to the left of the road and the sign is facing the wrong way. It’s a short drive up the hill and you can park at the base of a stairway leading up the lighthouse complex. After 42 steps you enter the lighthouse property where you are met with what else but more steps. You will come across a small museum upon entering the main building and then there are even more steps up to the base of the tower itself. We had to wait our turn up the tower but we had the good fortune of meeting the amiable lighthouse keeper who regaled us with some stories. When our turn came it was still more steps up the spiral staircase to the top. Considering that this was built during the Spanish era, I have to wonder at the engineering and technology employed. Don’t forget the contribution box on your way out of the tower. All the steps down were equally murderous to a different set of muscles. Including the long walk in San Juan of 2 day ago, the pain would stay with me for a good week.
Steps,
more steps,
and even more steps
to the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse Lantern.
We skipped Laoag and stopped at about noon for lunch in the town of San Nicolas although we would have all loved to visit Fort Ilocandia which is a family favorite. Lunch was Shakey’s Pizza in a very modern mall ala Greenbelt 3. The complimentary newspaper in the restaurant, the first we read in 3days, mentioned something about President Arroyo visiting the town fiesta of Santa probably landing and coming from Laoag. This was evident from all the people waiting in the roadsides heading south. This did not help the drive which was slow and I turned over the wheel to Miren nearing La Union. We passed the San Juan Surf Resort at around 5 PM and the odometer was at 955 kilometers. We used the bypass in San Fernando to avoid the city proper traffic but it still took another hour to get to Bauang from San Juan where we loaded gas before turning left onto Naguilian Road. The drive up to Baguio went relatively well with the exception to a military convoy, most likely related to the Arroyo visit there, that we had to pass. The convoy was led by something that looked like a tank but with large tires. It took another hour to get to Baguio from Bauang and we arrived promptly at 7 PM.
Joey and Miren at doorway to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse
Joey and Miren in Cape Bojeador Lighthouse
Nina in the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse grounds
Timmy, Joey and Inaki finally make it to the top
We checked in at our usual Price Plaza Hotel along Legarda Road. After a bath and a bit of rest, we had dinner in a Korean restaurant across the hotel. After dinner, I was able to convince everybody to go an a stroll and we walked down to Burnham and halfway up Session to a McDonalds outlet for dessert. I wanted to walk back to the hotel but we made it as far as the bottom of Session and took a taxi the rest of the way back to the hotel. Another night of TV and early sleep but this is one time I was looking forward to it.
Northern view from Cape Bojeador Lighthouse
Southern view from Cape Bojeador Lighthouse
Total distance traveled so far is 1,019.8 kilometers. Total expense for the day was P6,514.
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 5, 2008 from Baguio, Philippines

I think it was safe to say that all were eager to get back home after 5 days of wanderings. We had breakfast again at the lobby restaurant of the hotel and were on the road by about 10:30 AM. I nixed a suggestion to visit SM Baguio hoping to be in Luisita in Tarlac by lunch and home by mid to later afternoon. There was the expected traffic in the major towns in Pangasinan and we reached Luisita by about 1:30 PM and were back on the road at almost 3 PM after coffee at Starbucks. It was 4:30 PM when we paid the toll in the NLEX and were home after another hour or so before 6 PM.
Before this trip even came to end, we were planning our next ones. There is the trip this summer driving our other car back to Manila after we close the house in Bacolod. We are also planning to take Mirens sister to the north when she visits on June. There is also the missed legs to Banaue and Sagada via Halsema. I would also like to be able to drive further south past Sariaya in Quezon and visit other eastern provinces such as Aurora. I have traveled abroad on several occasions but Miren hasn't and I would like to take her even to Hong Kong or Singapore this year. Our dream is to backpack through Europe someday. More than anything else, these are the stuff that keeps us going and looking forward to the next break or vacation.
But for now, home beckons.
Total expense for the day was P4,519. Final odometer reading was 1,332 kilometers.
Trusty Steed
written by  Joey Carlotta on January 7, 2008 from Las Pinas, Philippines

Garden

Trees

House

Path

Nina for Ray Ban

Southern view from Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

Nina, Inaki and Timmy with Bangui Windmill background