Mag-Alawa Island Getaway

Summer time is BEACH TIME and when we say BEACH, Zambales boast a lot. Zambales is not only famous with there sweet mangoes but is one of the places where people go to, to escape the busy place of MANILA. Known for its multiple white sand Islands, Zambales is a place to be. 

Have you heard of MAG-ALAWA island? If not yet, read this entry and you might wanna consider this island on your next beach get away. From my post I think a year ago, I already showed you Anawangin Cove and this time, a newly discovered island by beach goers is making its mark on the list of must-see-island in the province.

 

Photo courtesy: pinasmuna.com

My bestfriend, Lorena, invited me to this island since she and her relatives are planning to take a trip on the island. Since two of my other friends, Louie and Cresielda are invited as well, I decided to take part on the trip.I never been to the island before, yes I hear it was beautiful but I didn't had the time to see it for my self. 

Mag-Alawa island is located at Palauig, Zambales, approximately 6-7 bus ride from the busy district of Manila. Mag-Alawa island offers white sand beach and an exquisite view of its blue ocean. There are two resorts at the island where you can rent a cabin or you can also have a camping site at the island depends on what type of traveler you are.

 

Camp site at the island

 Cabins for rent

Before you get to the island, you will have to take a boat ride approximately 5-10 minutes from Luan Port. The boat ride was calm and it was great compared to the boat ride I experience going to Anawangin Cove. As the boat approaches the island, all I can say was WOW!

 

My friends on a boat ride

 

The clear water makes it more appealing

 

I can just sit here and relax

As soon as I set my foot at the Island, I completely fell in love with the place. It was indeed very relaxing and a perfect place to have a day off from work or school. The clear blue ocean and perfect weather made it better. I decided to ask my friends to go around the island. I was not disappointed of how great the place is.

 

Mandatory solo photo!

Cresielda and Louie looks really happy

It's time to explore the island.

 Why don't we take a group post?

 Groufie showing the beautiful waters of the island

Taking a break and groufie?

The Island also boast it's coral reefs.  One of the activities they offer is snorkeling. You can bring your own goggles and you could also rent. Unfortunately for me, I cant swim and I have a bad eyesight which makes me unable to snorkel with my friends and enjoy underwater. Even if I can't enjoy the corals the view and the sunset is just perfectly fine for me.

 

They are definitely enjoying the waters!

  

After a tiring day of taking pictures and swimming, we decided to just sit at the sand and enjoy the sunset. I can't believe I can just sit there for more than 20 minutes and look at the sky. No talking, no taking selfies, just sitting there and enjoying the view.

 WOW <3

After we ate, we decided to set a bonfire but the weather didn't cooperate and the rain poured. We originally decided to use the tent for the night but because of the rain, we were forced to rent a cabin. 

 

 

Collecting woods to use on bonfire

Since it rained, we decided to play card games on our cabin and of course the one who lose will have to take a straight shot of liquor. That was one hell of a night for my me and my friends. When the rain stopped, the others started the camp fire.

 Me and my friends goofing around.

   

  Late night camp fire

All in all, the experience was terrific and would definitely come back here if time permits. This place is most recommended. If you want to have a break from work and go nature tripping, Mag-Alawa Island is the place to be. Till the next island get away!

Photo courtesy of Lorena Morales

Singaporean Hawker in Makati City

Chicken rice is one of the famous Singaporean dishes I have tried when I stayed at Singapore before. During my stay, this dish is the one I’ve been eating over and over because of its unique taste and cheap price. It’s been a year since I last ate this dish so I was very happy to see a restaurant that serves authentic Singaporean foods just right across the street of the building where I live. 

I was just finished going to the bank when I craved for something I don’t know. Alam niyo yung feeling na may gusto kang kainin pero hindi mo alam kung ano? Nakakafrustrate hindi ba? So I started walking the opposite direction kung saan ako nakatira. I wanted to eat something na hindi nabibili sa Mcdonalds, KFC, Chowking or Jolibee. I want something different from the usual food that I eat. As I walk feeling hopeless to see a restaurant na magsasatify sa craving ko, I saw this restaurant named Authentic Masters TTK Singapore Foods and suddenly, nalaman ko kung ano ang gusto ko. I want CHICKEN RICE. 

Savana Commercial Center, Metropolitan Avenue, Corner Pasong Tamo Extension, Santa Cruz, Makati City

I went in and nagulat ako to see na walang tao, maybe it’s too early for dinner so I decided to take a sit and check there menu. This waiter approached me and asked if I have already decided kung ano ang oorderin ko. I ordered chicken rice or Hianesse Chicken na set meal for dine in and one chicken rice and garlic broccoli for take-out. I wanted to share the food to my housemates.

As I wait for my order, I was surprised how earnest the waiters attend to me. I mean, not all restaurants have staff like them. If it was a fine dining restaurant I won’t be surprised but this restaurant is different, a VERY GOOD different. As I wait for my order, nagulat ako ng biglang naglagay yung waiter ng glass of ice tea sa table ko. I told him I did not ordered for an Ice Tea but he said that it was on the house since the order would take long and since iisa ko lang naman daw sa restaurant nila, I was shocked and thanked him for the ice tea. 

Signature Chicken Rice

After 10 minute my order arrived. When I tasted the chicken rice, it was not the best tasting chicken rice I have ever tried but it did satisfied my craving. For 150 peso set meal, I can surely say that this food is satisfying and if ever crave for Singaporean Food I would know where to go.

I will surely go back here and tag my friends along. I admired how well trained there staff is and for that I commend this restaurant for good customer service.

My "take away" order