Singapore: The Road Less Traveled (Part 1)

As I have said before, I've been to Singapore four times and only on my last visit have I truly explored and tasted this island city-state. There's so much more to Singapore than just the Universal Studios or the Marina Bay or the Zoo. There are still places that needed to be discovered and what's even more amazing is they are so cheap or even free. 

So, follow me and let's go explore the Merlion City by the road less traveled.

Let's go hiking!

Unbeknownst to everyone, Singapore actually has a lot of places or spots where you can jog, run, picnic or hike. It has a few outdoor spots where you can read a book or just stroll. The last time I was in Singapore, one of our goals was to go somewhere we haven't been to and without spending much. Somewhere where we won't have to pay for entrance fees. So, I scoured the internet for places in the Merlion city we could explore. And walah, my search turned up a few hits. There were a few blogs that mentioned places we haven't been to and we need not break the bank. Here are some of the places we went to which are really good hiking and nature trails. Best of all, you won't have to go too far. It's within a bus or an MRT ride. You would only need to bring a bottle of water, a  change of shirt and wear your rubber shoes. You don't even have to be a hardcore hiker to finish the trail. It's like a walk in the park and you can take lots of selfies and pictures in between. So, lace up those trainers and let's start. 

Marang Trail 

The starting point of this leisure hike is the Marang Trail. You have to take a bus or an  MRT to Harbourpoint. It's the same stop if you want to go to Sentosa Island. Once  you have reached Harbourpoint, take Exit D to Marang Road. Just read the signs where Exit D is and you'll be sure to find it. You have to cross via the walkway and be on the opposite side of Harbourpoint.

You will know you've reached the beginning of the trail because you will see this sign post and lots of parked bicycles. Well, it's actually beside a parking lot.

The trail consists of stairs and a paved path. Mind you though, you will notice that the walk is going to be uphill. 

Along the way, you will see plants and trees. The trail is a bit shaded so you won't have to worry about being under too much heat. But it's best too wear sunscreen also or a hat or any other headgear. Best also to start early in the morning. For us, we arrived around 7am at the foot of the Marang Trail. 

As I have mentioned, the trail starts to incline, you will know this when you reach the part where you will have to climb stairs. Don't worry, the view is nice. You can start too see the opposite side which is Sentosa. 

It would be just stairs until you reach the end of the trail. At the top would be Mt. Faber, the second highest peak in Singapore. This is where you will see one of the Merlion statues. There's also a restaurant here, a park and you can actually ride a cable car to reach Mt. Faber. I didn't mention the cable car earlier because it's too easy. It's more fun hiking and it's a lot cheaper. 

Mt. Faber

From Mt. faber, you will see an amazing panoramic view of Sentosa, Harbourpoint and it's neighboring places. It's a different view of Singapore which you don't get to see everyday, unless you climb Mt. Faber everyday or work at Mt. Faber.

From Mt.  Faber to the next  part of this hike is a plain paved road. Be sure to stay on the sidewalk though as there are many vehicles passing this area. Along the way, you will have a lot of spots where you can take selfies. I mentioned a cable car earlier, right? You can take a selfie while inside a cable car here, only it's not moving.

You will also see this very colorful set of stairs. You can't climb it though as the access gate is locked. 

Henderson Waves

Next stop is the Henderson Waves. It's actually a bridge that has a very unique architectural design. Yes, like waves. Obviously! It's the highest pedestrian bridge that connects Mt. Faber to Telok Blangah Hill. It's about 276 meters long and 36 meters above Henderson Road or about 77 meters above sea level.

This is the start of the Henderson Waves Bridge. When we were there, there were a few people doing all sorts of things. Some, just like us, are tourists  exploring. There were also locals exercising. There were groups of teenagers just strolling. There was even a couple who was doing their pre-nup pictorial.

Down below, you will see a very good bird eye's view of Henderson Road.

Forest Walk

The next leg is the Forest walk. You have to pass through a parking lot and paved roads to get there. 

This is the Alkaff Mansion. We passed it on our way to the Treetop Walk. No, we didn't get inside.

McRitchie Nature Trail/Treetop Walk

The McRitchie Reservoir is the oldest water reservoir in Singapore. We didn't take this trail but the Treetop walk. As its name suggests, it's a suspended 250 meter walkway made of mesh steel. A good nature walk where you can see various plants, birds and flowers. We didn't get to see a lot of birds when we were there but the view was very refreshing. It's a totally different side of Singapore. It's a forest in the middle of the city. 

Traversing the suspended walkway wasn't scary at all. Yes, it was way up there and you can see below vegetation and trees. The bridge is very sturdy and I trust that the Singaporean engineers and architect who designed the bridge have taken into account the amount of stress, weight and pressure the bridge can withstand. So, I wasn't worried at all.

The whole length, from Mt. Faber to the end of the Treetop Walk is about 9 kilometers. I don't think it was that long. Maybe, we took a shortcut or something but it sure didn't feel like we walked that whole length. We finished the hike in about 3 hours that's because we took lots of pictures, stopped to take breaks and just enjoyed the views and people-watched. Just another great day at the park. It was a fun and a different way to experience Singapore. Especially, when at the end of it you will see a cute squirrel. It was a like a good reward for finishing the walk. And nothing beats a good lunch at the hawker stalls in Harbourpoint after. 


How about you? Have you been to any place in Singapore where only a few people know? Have you walked the path that's less travelled?

Up next...part 2. Let's go biking this time. Yes, still in Singapore, the road less travelled. 

Chasing Cherry Blossoms in South Korea

It's been one of my wishes to see the cherry blossoms. The original plan was to go to Japan in April since cherry blossoms are in full bloom during springtime. Unfortunately, flights are really expensive, like 35,000 pesos expensive. So, that's a bit of an issue since I don't have a lot to spend just on airfare. I'm a budget traveler so I'd prefer to spend on the experiences and food on the actual trip. 

So, with that bump to the plan, we opted to find another option. And voila, I found that it's cheaper to go to Seoul. Best of all, they have cherry blossoms too and they are in full bloom also in April. So, we started looking for the best priced flights and finally booked our tickets to Seoul via Incheon. We booked our tickets on two different airlines since we would be saving more. We also used our memberships discounts and points to pay for our luggage. We saved a few pesos which is already a big difference. Our two-way airfare was about 10,000 pesos and that's way too reasonable already. And take note, we booked our flights in November 2018 for our planned trip last April 6 to 11, 2019. That's about six months in advanced.

On Monday, April 8, 2019, we finally had our first glimpse of the famed and most sought after cherry blossoms. But here's a story first. We went to Nami Island the day before, a Sunday, hoping to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom. And surprise, surprise...not one bloom or flower can be seen. Nami Island is colorless except for the green pine trees. But all other trees and plants seemed to be still in Winter mood. It seemed like they're still hibernating, if plants do hibernate. The place felt so desolate in browns and grays. I was disappointed. But then again, we can't lose heart on our first day in Korea, right?

So, the next day, we head out to Yeouido Park. It's one of the popular places where cherry blossoms can be seen in Seoul. And surprise, surprise again...they're there all right but not in full bloom yet. But then, we can't be too gloomy. They are beautiful but not as many or as overwhelming as I saw them in the pictures. I wasn't amazed with my first sight of the cherry blossoms in Yeouido Park. But nevertheless, we took pictures after pictures fearing this might be our only chance of seeing the cherry blossoms. So, here are some of the pictures we took. 

Well, that's not too bad, right? It wasn't really, but I was hoping to be amazed. Sadly, I wasn't. It was not enough for me. I was expecting more. So, the next day, Tuesday, April 8, 2019, our itinerary was to go to Lotte World. We know that a lake surrounds the theme park and it's called Seokchon Lake. Apparently, they too have cherry blossoms there. So, the plan was to go there before Lotte World opens and take pictures. We weren't expecting so much because we didn't want our hearts broken again. 

Lo and behold! The whole lake is surrounded by cherry blossoms in full bloom. The pavement is peppered with white petals that have fallen off from the branches. Each side of the walkway is lined with cherry blossoms. I was speechless. This is the experience I have been looking for. This is what I wanted to see. A truly amazing experience and one I can truly check off my bucket list. Yes, from that moment, I was ready for all other things to happen, even if they're not going to be nice because I think I had my fill of the best experience. It's like I have more than enough anesthesia to store for the aches and disappointments to come. That was how I was feeling. It was surreal. Finally, I have touched and felt these ever praised cherry blossoms which only bloom in spring and they shed their flowers after a week. They don't last forever. The same could be said for some good things in life that never last. And I guess, that's why these tiny flowers are so sought after because they're so beautiful and they don't last for long. You have to savor the experience basking in their beauty. And that's what makes the experience unique because it's fleeting. It's not a daily occurrence. The same is true with everything in life. You cherish each moment because it may never happen again. You'll have to wait a whole year to see these flowers bloom again. And who knows where we will be in a year? 

Seeing the cherry blossoms in full bloom was an emotional experience for me. In fact, while writing this post, I got teary-eyed reliving the experience. It was truly one for the books. An experience that I would carry with me for the rest of my life. Why am I being emotional over some tiny pink and white flowers? And I don't even like pink. I actually hate pink but I didn't even think of that. It never came to mind. I just basked in the luxury of being under the canopy of these delicate flowers and imagined myself being blanketed in beauty and the wonder of nature. I felt invincible, if only for a moment. It was like nothing can hurt me now. Bring it on!

So, I was being emotional because the past three years or so haven't been what I wanted. It was  actually very hard  and I think those were the darkest part  of my life. I'm not exaggerating. It truly was a very difficult and desolate time for me. I had very very dark  thoughts and I  came very very close to giving up on life and everything. 

To finally travel again, which is one of my passions, is a great blessing. I thought that I would never be able to afford to travel abroad again and experience the high of experiencing something new and learning about a country's culture and history first hand. Walking under the extended branches with the cherry blossoms in full glory was like a reminder to me that I can never give up. That I should always try to look at things differently or with a new perspective. Even how desperate a situation is, I should try to think that it's not always going to be my situation. It's not permanent. Everything will surely turn positive once it's gone worst. It had nowhere else to go but turn all right, right? 

With this surreal and unbelievable experience, I think fate or whoever has turned my world so dark has more than made up for it. I am just so thankful that I have experienced this in this lifetime. I am humbled and I will continue to be positive in spite of everything. As I recall, this is one of the fruits of my good thoughts. I remember there were government officials doing a survey around our barangay and the questions were about the prices, employment, inflation, etc. Some of the questions were if people see the situations changing for the worse or for the better. The government employee commented that my answers were always hopeful. That I was optimistic that things will be better. And I answered that they should be. We can't think that things will get worse because they probably will. Indeed, the mind is so powerful. I started with that thought and never let go. Things will get better and I worked hard to get them better. I prayed harder too. So, the cherry blossoms represent that for me. That it always pays to be positive. No matter how absolutely down or desperate the situation is, never lose hope. I know it's so cliche but it always works.

So, even when it was around six degrees Celsius while we were walking and feasting our senses with the beauty of the cherry blossoms and the sky was a bit gray, it didn't matter. Even if it felt like it was still winter in Seoul instead of spring, it didn't matter. What matters was in that moment, my insides were warm because my heart felt so huge it felt like bursting out of my chest because it was filled with overwhelming happiness and pure joy. And yes, all because of those tiny and delicate pink flowers whose lifespan is only a week. 

As I have said, I will forever treasure this moment. This trip to Seoul has been one of my best trips. 

So long Korea. I will be back. Thank your for the wonderful experiences. Kamsamhamnida!

How about you? Have you seen the cherry blossoms? Share your experiences too.

Coming up...more posts on our South Korea trip. Stay tuned.

Sipalay: A Hidden Gem

Welcome to Sipalay! The Jewel of the Sugar Island. 

Sipalay or officially known as the City of Sipalay is about 175 kilometers south from Bacolod City, over three hours by car or about 5 hours by bus. Once you reach Sipaly, you will be welcomed by this mosque-like structure which is their city hall. 

There are about ten beach resorts in Sipalay. We only went to three. Our first stop is the Perth Paradise Resort. It's situated on the side of a hill and it overlooks a very stunning and relaxing view of peanut kisses shaped islands. Yes, these islands look like floating peanut kisses. 

As you enter the gate of Perth, you will see this view on your left. A short boardwalk to a dock where guests can go ride a boat to go island-hopping or enjoy kayaking leisurely. It's safe to go kayaking because the water is very calm. No waves at all. 

Then, you would have to go up about two flight of stairs to get to the main part of the resort and where a stunning view awaits. 

They have an infinity pool with a view that is just so amazing. Whatever the pool lacked in size, it more than made up for its priceless and very very wonderful view. It's picture perfect and it's like looking at a postcard. You better take in this view and immortalize it for eternity. 

But that's not all, there's more. You can go up to their lookout point where you'll have a 360 degree view of the sea, the other islands and the hills surrounding Perth. So, brace yourself to be astounded once again.

You have permission to go all-gaga on taking loads of pictures and selfies. No one will ever fault you for it. 

One reminder though, going to Perth is probably the most difficult and arduous road we've ever took. And I mean this literally. The road going to the resort is a bit of challenge. You will need all your driving skills and calm. It's a very rough and narrow road with a very steep drop on your left and an unprepared swim in the sea to your right if you miscalculate steering the wheel. So, consider yourself warned. 

And one more thing, parking space is very limited. You will have no choice but park you car vertically or park in a bit of a slope. But no worries, the resort people knew the challenges going to their resort so they have people who will assist you in making sure you don't make an accidental plunge and also find you a parking space. But all these challenges, the sweat and the nerves going there will be forgotten once you see the view. It's all worth it. But I hope your heart can still take it taking the journey back down the rough road again.

After Perth, we went back our way to visit Tinagong Dagat. Actually, we were supposed to go to Tinagong Dagat first but we missed the turnoff. Must be the reason why it's called Tinagong Dagat. Many people have probably missed the turnoff also. Did you get the joke? 

Anyway, the road going to Tinagong Dagat and parking is not as hard as Perth. It's an improvement but this time, you'll have to walk a few meters uphill. Yes, the resort is also situated on a hill and you'll have to cross three connected bridges made of bamboo and there's one hanging bridge. It's actually just one long bridge but then I noticed that there were three different portions of the bridge and the materials used were not all the same. Not all bamboo. It's sort of a hodgepodge of a bamboo bridge, a hanging bridge and there are also cemented areas where you can rest between each bridge. So, it's one of the reasons why to me it seemed like three connected bridges. 

 

Anyway, once you've crossed the bridge, you will see a building with a sign that says Latasan Island Resort. It's still part of Tinagong Dagat. 

I just can't resist benches and flowers, so I had to make sure I have a picture here. You do agree, the flowers are beautiful, right?

They also have a pool with a view but not as stunning as the one in Perth. You will still see the peanut-kisses like islands also but the view is a bit different. 

Then, you'll have to climb steps here also to get to their vantage point. Don't worry, the climb will also be so worth it. If you think you have seen everything when you saw the floating peanut kisses, believe me, it's not all there is. In here, you will see an island shaped like a turtle. Isn't it amazing? Only in the Philippines.

And we have to thank our very creative  guide for some  of the very  impressive pictures here, especially the panoramas. Our  guide, a boy who's about 10 to 12 years  old, has  become  very adept  in taking  pictures  and  knew  exactly  the spots where to take them. Unfortunately, we were not able to get  his name but we did reward him for his  skills with  extra tip  and  a large  back  of Pica  chips to  share with his two  other  friends. I think, the other boy thought he won  the lottery  when  we  handed  him  the  bag of chips. It  was  like  Christmas  came early and it melted our  hearts  because  for  us, a  bag  of  chips is  just  a bag of chips. But  to them, it  seemed like  it was  the highlight  of their day and we were so glad that in some way, we made them happy. 

We just took picture after picture in Tinagang Dagat also. We didn't do any water activities. 

I have something to confess though...

Something happened when were leaving Tinagong Dagat. We blame it all on the avocado ice candy we were eating. We were all distracted. We didn't cause any damage but I think it was the closest thing we did to feel like we were criminals.

We backed into a parked SUV. Good thing, we hit his large tires and the back of the car, our car, just bounced on it. Thank the rubber gods for those giant tires. No dents on the enormous SUV and no additional dent to our already dented backside. I mean, the back of the car. And note, there was an eye witness. One of the bystanders saw us and he also went to check if we did any damage to the SUV. He was actually the one who said that there was nothing (So, we were on the clear. No harm, no foul. No case, so we don't need a lawyer.) and he also pointed out that our car was dented. Well, it was an old dent when my friend and her brother also had a similar experience. We were actually talking about that experience when we were leaving Perth. As fate would have it, a similar thing happened only an hour or two after. This is definitely one of those trips that we will never forget and I have one more thing to add to "My Funny Friend and Me" compilation part 2.

So, it was lunchtime when we got off Tinagong Dagat and we drove back to the main part of the city to eat lunch. Our friend said we would eat by the Poblacion beach. This is their public beach with a shoreline. Perth and Tinagong Dagat didn't have shorelines. There are restaurants fronting the shoreline so it would be fun. But when we got there, not one restaurant was open. Guess, they only open for dinner or late afternoon. 

So, we just drove back to Bacolod. We thought we would just stop by Kabancalan and find some place to eat there. We didn't stop for any other places except for Mila's in Hinigaran. This is a very famous pastry shop and restaurant for their buko pies, bibingka and bitchikoy. We bought one whole buko pie, potato cake, fruit pies and chicken pies. Sadly, we didn't get to try their bibingka and bitchikoy because we didn't know that those were their specialties. Our friend who was from Bacolod stayed in the car and she only told us to try the buko pie. But I was really curious about the bitchikoy. It's their version of a donut with cheese inside. Well, at least, I know what to buy when I go there next time. The buko pie is really good. It's very smooth and it has yema or custard which is what makes their buko pie different. The chicken pie is good but not that impressive. I wasn't a fan of the potato cake either. My friends like it though. But I was really hooked on their fruit pie. I can taste the fruit on my first bite and it's not the canned fruit type but the real fresh fruit. More fruits than pie crust. I should have bought more than three pieces if I knew they were that really good. I will definitely go panic-buying on Mila's fruit pies next time.

So, the next time you're in the Bacolod City area or anywhere in Negros Occidental, try to visit Sipalay. Or if you've been to Sipalay, share your experiences also.

Up next is the third part of our Bacolod trip...Lakawon Island. Watch for it on my next post. Thanks for dropping by.

Thanks to our guide in Tinagong Dagat and to Rhona and Merly for some of the pictures here in which I was in it. Pictures were taken with a Samsung S7 phone, iphone 4s and a Sony Cybershot. Edits done in pixlr.com.