We went to Baler, Aurora some time last May 2013 so we won't be able to provide our detailed itinerary and expenses. We'll try our best to remember everything we did there.
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| Parang freezer sa lamig - Joy Bus on the way to Baler |
It takes around 5-6 hours to reach Baler from Manila. To commute going to Baler, you have two options: (1) take the Genesis Transport Bus (Php450) or (2) take the Joy Bus (Php700). The difference between the two option is Joy Bus does not have any stop over, has on-board comfort room, free snacks, free WiFi, and provides blanket to use during the trip. However, Joy Bus rides only have two schedules per day so make your reservations in advance in their
Genesis Transport Cubao branch. Contact Genesis Transport directly to inquire for their updated bus schedules.
We took midnight Joy Bus and it was really cozy BUT it was also too cold. Good thing they provided blankets for the trip.
We arrived Baler around 6AM and rode a tricycle going to
Rolling Stores to eat breakfast. (Sorry we were not able to take a picture of the place).
After breakfast, we rode a tricycle going to our
Aliya Surf Camp, which was located along Sabang Beach. Their room rates starts at Php 2,100 for three person. Check-in time is strictly 2PM, so we just left our bags with them then hired a tricycle to tour around the area. I don't remember how much we paid the driver, but I think it was more or less than Php 1,000.
Here are the places we went to in no particular order since I don't remember the ordering also.
1. The Old Balete Tree
See the 500+ years old Balete tree in Barangay Quirino, Aurora. It is believed to be the largest Banyan tree in Asia. For a quick adrenaline rush, try climbing up the tree
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| The Old Balete Tree |
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| On top of the Balete Tree |
2. Baler Church and Plaza
Discover the history and culture of Baler during the American, Spanish and Japanese period. Items used in the
"Baler" movie can also be found in the museum.
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| Inside Baler Museum |
5. Ermita Hill
The Diguisit Falls is located just along the highway of Baler.
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| Diguisit Falls |
7. Ditumabo Falls / Mother Falls
You will have to trek for 20 minutes or so to reach the falls but it is well-worth it. Enjoy dipping yourself into its really cold water when you get there.
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| Trek going to the Mother Falls |
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| The Mother Falls with its super cold water |
We ended our tour at
Gerry Shan's Place to have our lunch. At an unbelievable price of Php 185 you can already eat all you can here. They have a variety of Filipino and Chinese dishes in their buffet.
The next day, we spent the morning learning to surf! Oh yeah! Sabang Beach is perfect for beginners and non-swimmers because the tide is not high and the waves are not too big. Surfing lessons range from Php300-350 per hour, inclusive of surf board rental and instructor.
It was really hard to balance at first I believe it took me more than 30 minutes before I finally was able to stand on my board. But once you're able to achieve it, it's quite addicting.
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| Mahdox Surf School |
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| Riding the Wave |
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| Pa-cute cute lang |
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| Chilax! |
We recommend Baler if you are looking for a laid-back impromptu weekend adventure. Would love to come back to do more surfing. =)
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