'Come again' to Camiguin...
by imho
'Come again' to Camiguin Island, off Misamis Oriental. Seven years ago, I happened upon paradise...an island blessed with seven volcanoes, an abundance of hot and cold springs, numerous waterfalls, idyllic scenery, and the most laid-back atmosphere on earth.
Four years later, I returned, true to the island’s promise that I would indeed 'come again.' This time I had a lot more money and a lot less time, but it was still paradise on earth. I skipped the 'been-there, done-that' attractions and luxuriated instead in the isolation of it all. Home was several light years away, but I couldn’t care less.
I have always associated Camiguin island with healing, for it has never failed to revitalize my battered mind and spirit. Its very remoteness alone is a fantasy fulfilled for a person like myself who enjoys frequent detachment from the madness of the modern world. The island has always welcomed me with open arms, embracing me with its wondrous restorative powers, hesitantly but eventually setting me loose, fully mended and in good running condition, ready to face life in the maniacal metropolis again.
Last week, I found myself once again in the Eden of my dreams. I arrived not as a weary traveler seeking rejuvenation, but as a lawyer with a job to be done. This journey would not be one filled with long days basking on the pristine sands of White Island or steaming for hours on end in the waters of Ardent Springs. This time there was work to do in my island of healing – but little did I know that paradise itself was in desperate need for healing. (Continued)
Open Market
by Iluv2surf2
I describe this location as an open market. It's where usually "fresh" beef, chicken, fish, sea food, fruits and vegetables are sold. You can also but lechon there. We got a roasted pig we took with us to Paradise Island.
This is not far from the Bogobo House Hotel. It's maybe a 5-7 minute cab ride.
This place was complete organized chaos. It was a lot of fun. The smell was pretty bad because of all the raw meat hanging and fish there, but if you can get past the smell, you might actually enjoy yourself and find a good deal or two.
Considering the size of Davao, I'm sure there are more than one of these markets in the city, but this is the only one I'm familiar with. They are full of people and energy. Kids asking for money, and a chance to negotiate and haggle with every merchant. These markets are cash only so keep it secured and have a good time!
Tailor Made
by Iluv2surf2
From my teen years to the present I have always had challenges buying and wearing clothes off the rack. I have somewhat short legs and as I have matured and changed waist size, not inseam, it has become increasingly difficult. When buying pants either jeans, work or for suits, alterations are ALWAYS needed. I am impressed with the work of one tailor who has done some of my most detailed and intricate work.
I bought a high quality $1500 suit in the USA in 1998 or 1999, that needed significant alterations. Again, being only 5'7" this suit was cut for someone much taller than I am. The crotch of the suit fell to mid thigh. I really liked this suit, but to get it altered in the USA in a way that not only fit me correctly, but look like it was tailor made was going to cost a small fortune.
My wife knew of a tailor in Davao at Adams Square. He does exquisite work. These pants that would have cost me $100 or more to alter here, cost only $10 there. He also was responsible for making my barong that I wore for our wedding and for Merasol & Jay's wedding since I was best man there. (no suprise on that one ;-) hahaha!!!)
On our 2004 trip my mother-in-law took us to her favorite store NCCC and we bought some high quality material to use and my tailor made my a custom barong for our wedding. Total cost for material and tailoring was well under $50 for a custom barong.
He also made Jay's barong. Jay is a big guy. When they saw him they commented that they had never made a barong that big before! Jay is wearing it for his wedding.
AHFAT Seafood Restaurant
by Mayonie
AHFAT Seafood Restaurant
simple Hong Kong style ambience, delicious food, swift service and affordable price..best value! seafood roll(deep fried prawn/fish/crab meat coated in flour and bread crumbs, other seafood dishes, sweet and sour pork, etc
Paradise Island Beach Trip 2
by Iluv2surf2
Often from Paradise Island beach you can see these big boats and even cargo ships traveling to or from their port a few hundred yards from the beach and swimming area. The land under the water must really drop off very significantly in order to be deep enough for these ships to pass through.