SkimChix - island life

I've heard a lot about Osmena Peak and seen a lot of beautiful pictures of the place. And from then on, I started wishing that someday I can experience the beauty of Osmena Peak first hand. For someone who wants it that bad, nothing is impossible. So I spearheaded an event to climb Opeak with the help of course from my mountaineering friends, Bagtaks and Chupacabra. It was also joined by our guest who made the event more fun.

We arrived at our jump off point at around six in the evening so it turned out to be a night trek. It was an hour trek from the jump off point to the camp site. And after arriving tents were pitched and we started cooking our dinner. Socials follow though there's no need to really introduce the participants since we only have a few new faces. Both groups have always been together in most of their climbs and so the night was spend giggling, sharing stories and some boze. Or maybe for myself, got to much of it.

It was cold and the fog has surrounded us most of the time, glad I was wearing two layers of clothes and a really effective warmer. So there I was, spared from the cold.

Morning came and slowly the fog started to disappear and the beauty of the mountains was slowly revealed. It was spectacular! Can't explain how happy I was seeing the valleys and the seas below. I could have sit there in the cliff all day and still I couldn't get enough of it. Feels like I'm in heaven... (or is that a song?) But really, it gave me peace of mind, not that I am troubled but deep in my soul I felt the peacefulness of the place. Its like, all the worries has been wiped off, changed with a more enlighten spirit.

I felt the goodness of our creator seeing the beauty of the place. Can't say more but to bow down to his greatness.. It's not an exaggeration, because it really is very beautiful.. I wish to be back there again, and I won't be promising that it will be my last. The scenery is addictive, you'd wish for more and that's what's happening with me... I'd like to go back and I will be going back...

When traveling the west side going south, you can pass a Milk Station somewhere in Barili. It's a small park that has a store selling homemade products. These are ice cream, fresh milk, white cheese and other dairy products.

The main ingredient which is milk, came fresh from their farm. It taste good and is very affordable. The ice cream comes in different flavors such as strawberry, ube, chocolate and vanilla. And I love all the flavors.

There's also white cheese which is really tasty. It is rarely found in the city nowadays even in market place where we used to buy some. I haven't eaten white cheese for quite a long time and I don't know where to buy it until I discovered that in Barili. These are either from a cow's or carabao's milk. And yes I did ate the white cheese raw. Eating it with crackers is also a nice way of enjoying white cheese but there was no crackers available.

The best part of this milk heaven is the price and the ambiance. It doesn't cost much and it gives a quick break after traveling the south west national road of Cebu. There are tables and chairs under the shade of the trees that surround the area. So if you're on a road trip and on a milk food trip then this is the place to go.

photos from Raymond Lazaro

Enough for those adventures, either climbing peaks or exploring beaches because it's time to enjoy some food trip. Oyster or Talaba in the Cebuano language has been very abundant lately in Cebu. Though I guess that not everyone is a fan of this.

I don't like the taste and the slimy feel the very first time that I've tasted it. Then I got a chance to taste a baked talaba and that's how my addiction started. From baked talaba I began to love the raw or half cooked talaba with just a squeeze of lemon juice or kalamansi.

We flocked to Consolacion, a town north of Cebu. Its just after you crossed the bridge connecting Mandaue City and Consolacion. Its situated near a fish pond that doesn't only offer fresh talaba but also fresh milk fresh or bangus.

Both can be cook over charcoal, right from the fishnets. There was approximately 15 of us and we were able to consume 29 kilos of talaba. We actually bought our own home made spicy vinegar, butter and cheese to add flavors to our talaba, but eating it raw is just fine, because fresh talaba taste sweet with some salty feel.

The place may not be a class A destination but its enough to give you a feel that you are away from the city, its very relaxing and gives you a breath of fresh air, sea breeze that is. And the food doesn't cost that much, 35 pesos for every kilo of talaba consumed. Not bad, right?

Its been a long time since I have updated this blog, for the reason that I have bought my own domain and was planning to work on it. Unfortunately, I miss my skimchix blog. Just writing the things that interest me and not just the pictures (my plan for my own domain).

I love to capture beautiful pictures but I love to share tips and advises in going places, share my experience to all my adventures and inspire you to find your own adventure. So here I am again!
To all my coming adventures, bring it on, because I'm blogging it!

Casay Beach is not new to people in the south side of Cebu. But for me, it was my first time to enjoy the white sand beach in the boundary of Argao and Dalagute. It's a very nice place to spend a peaceful and relaxing time at the beach minus the crowd.

It is managed by the Local Government unit of Argao, so entrance and cottage rate are very affordable. You can just bring marinated pork, chicken or fish to broil in one of their broiling site or ready to eat foods for your meals.

Its also a good spot for skimboarding especially during high-tide because the sand is fine and has sufficient wave big enough for gliding the shores. Though during low tides when the corals or rocks will start to surface, skimboarding is not a good idea because the rocks are sharp and can cause some serious injuries.

Going to the resort is easy. You can ride the bus bound for Dalaguete and beyond route (that's the southeast side of Cebu) and ask the bus driver to stop you at Casay junction. From there you can either walk approximately one kilometer or ride a 3 wheeled bicycled(the trisikad) going to the place.

For our Casay escapade, it was a fun filled day with good food and some boze. Or maybe not some, because the boze was overflowing that even on our way home, they were still consuming the drink in the bus. But never the less it was a very fun day with my mountaineering friends. Spending the weekend together but not on any peak, just under the sun and the sand.

It was a long weekend in the island and I was expected to join my hubby in their team outing at Bas Dako, Moalboal. They have been there since early afternoon, while I was still at work. So I was left to travel alone going south. I'm not really new to traveling alone and I have always enjoy the liberty of doing it. So I left work and waited for my bus going to the south west part of Cebu.

This time it was at a different resort, contrary to my previous visits at Moalboal where I only stayed at Delgado's Resort . It was at Magic Place Resort. The place was nice, just in front the sea shore and the accommodation was affordable. Though I brought my own tent to spend the night.

It was windy and it was my first time to experience the big waves of Moalboal. The big waves did not hinder me from enjoying the white sand and the sunny weather. I was playing with the waves all day, and I ended up, feeling the waves even I was already out of the water.

For trips to Moalboal, it is recommended to bring ready to cook food, or if you're bringing a vehicle you can always buy at their local market and enjoy their fresh seafood, vegetables and fruits.

And just in-case you're planning for a backpacking trip to Moalboal minus your private vehicle, bus fare would range from 80-100 pesos. And another 40-50 pesos for the tricycle. For beach bummers, this is another place worth wasting our time.

I was busy during the weekend for a friend's engagement shot. They have been dating for more than seven years, if I remember that right. And they just got engage last month. She is my closest childhood friend and yes we grew up together. So I was thrill to hear the news and knowing that an opportunity to take this shoot and hopefully their wedding is on its way. And that means declining the matron of honor role for me.


It was a whole day activity that started so early in the morning to catch the rising sun. Our first location was at their private resort in Carmen with me and my angel as the official photographer. This is officially our first engagement shoot. So before heading back to the next destination, we have a quick dip in the sea that has been very calm and welcoming.

Next stop was at St Agustin Church in Danao, at the new Paknaan Bridge and at North Reclamation Area. After our lunch at Parkmall, we headed to the mountainous side of Cebu. They want to have an overview of the city but instead of taking them to Mountain View Resort, which has an entrance fee for all person coming in, I took them at Chalet. One of the camping site near Mountain View, with no entrance fee. And it does offer a very nice view for our photo shoot. And to end the day, we have our rest at Governor Leyson's peak and ate some sweet corn while savor the scenery.

It was a very tiring day but we really had fun. I'd be sharing some of my photos here but please check the rest of our photos for this shoot at our photosite, www.rayenshub.com. The site is still a work in process but I'll try my best to upload all those photos soon.

Every couple would dream of owning a house to raise their own family. And I am not exempted from this. I too would love to see myself in the future in my own house with the kids playing in the lawn and a husband who would be sitting in the coffee table early morning reading the newspaper while I prepare breakfast for a Sunday morning meal.

Each dream can be realized if steps are made to fulfill it. And as a couple we already planned for this. The Mazari Cove of Paramount Property Ventures has just opened its doors to new couples or those planning to retire in the near future. It is a beach resort like community that offers affordable house that can cater to middle class. We were lucky to have been invited in there ground breaking ceremony to at least check the site of our future home. And indeed the place was something to look forward to. It has the view of Cebu straight on the east and the mountains in the west and the buzzing life of the city seems so far away. Such a nice place to relax after a days work. Its not that far from the highway too, so transportation is convenient for those who don't have cars yet. And it is a fence community so you're secured 24/7. Something you can really call home that can give you some peace of mind.

I just saw this project in one of the facebook account and was really interested. So I guess if you too are interested with the place then feel free to contact me or leave a message so I can recommend you to the real estate agent who also caters us.

I'm sure they'll be able to give you a good idea about the place. And who knows, I'll be your next door neighbor! :D

It was a two day event that started late in the afternoon hiking to Campensa Peak at Camp 6, Manipis, Toledo. But I opted not to join the group since I have to wait for my Angel to come home from work. I will be bringing him to the camp out and hopefully negotiate to go caving the following day.

So it was only us, riding the motorcycle for almost 30 minutes, to the drop off point in Camp 6 Barangay Hall. It was refreshing to watch the view of the opposite mountain and all the greenery surrounding it. We were traveling the infamous Manipis road, know for narrow streets with cliffs on the side. It was so scary seeing the deep trenches along the way.

In the drop off point we were met by some locals who personally knew our guide and we were instructed to follow the foot path. We started climbing and hiking. It was all footpath, too easy right? Well think again, because the steps are more than a hundred steps and I think it could reach a thousand. We have to rest from time to time because everything seems like a direct assault. Angel trusted me that I will be able to lead him to the campsite before dark. Whew! It was tough because it was also my first time in the area. I don't have any idea if we really can reach the camp site in time.

And as per instruction we followed the footpath even if we are traveling away from the said peak. We were lost and it was already dark. With my not so bright headlamp, we manage to find a shorter route to the peak passing on the side of the hills. And because it was dark, we hardly can't see the path. Then a carabao was on our way, but all I can see was the carabao's eyes glittering from my light. I could still remember Angel's eyes when he saw the animal. He was scared, he can't see well in the dark and he doesn't have a headlamp. But I have to stop myself from giggling since I don't want him to get irritated, not on his first climb.

Thankfully we arrived at the camp site, unscratched and very tired and hungry. We just bought a packed meal to get rid of cooking and preparing for dinner and just have to wait for others to finish preparing their meal. And later the socials started by introducing everyone. And the alcoholic beverages, stories to share started pouring. Unfortunately, I had an early lights off. Though I was just listening to everyone talking outside the tent, since it was hard for me to sleep because of the cold.

I woke up early morning with the fog surrounding the campsite. Later the sun emerge together with a beautiful view of the city from a far. Ate a little to have energy to sustain the downhill climb going back to our jump off point. The rest of the gang have to wait for their ride going to the drop off point to the cave while we are on our way home. Too bad,wasn't able to convince Angel to join in the caving. But at least it was his first camp out. Maybe someday..

A lot of people ask me why I enjoy climbing peaks when the inconvenience of hiking for hours, tiring assaults to peak, carrying heavy bags with everything in it for ones survival and the scorching heat of the sun is exhausting. The answer is simple. You can't simply experience these beautiful scenery first hand in your comfort zone, be it in your home, in front of your laptops or even in luxurious resorts. And mind you the scenery you see in pictures are more beautiful when seen by your own eyes.

I have come to admire mother nature at these remote places way back when I was a kid. I used to go with my cousin to their lands in one of the mountainous municipality of Cebu. I could not remember a time that I would hurry in going back to the City. Because I like staying in the mountains. I just love the laid back life, the fresh air and the view of the plains. I would wander alone and I never felt lonely. My stay in the mountains always rejuvenates my spirit.

My connection with nature was lost when I got busy with my studies during my college days. I thought I'm over with my love for nature, like some puppy love that will be forgotten through time. But I was wrong. Because now I'm back and looking for more adventures that allows me to explore the mountains and peaks of Cebu. Now I'm back to what I love most and rekindling the memories that has long been embedded in my heart way back when I was a kid. And I'm up for more adventures in the mountains...

To those who are up with me, don't hesitate to email or message me your inquiries. I can help you find your own adventure..

I was at the funeral of Mr. Manuel Ting, the hotelier that was shot a few weeks ago by some gun for hire, who happens to be one of the owner of the company I was working at. I won't be discussing anything about the case since I don't know anything about it and I don't have any idea why it happened. Rather I'd like to share some insights on what I saw during the funeral.

The Ting Family did not just own one business but rather a good few. That would explain why at least 8 buses was used and vehicles has crowded the city traffic. A lot of people are earning, sending there kids to school and building better lives because of the opportunity they offer to the community. And most of there employees look at them as good person with good heart. One of his son is my direct boss and I do see the reflection of Mr Manuel Ting in him. Very vibrant when it comes to there out look with life and always willing to extend some hand. No wonder that even at the age of 72, he was still very energetic and would never hesitate to return a smile or some greetings. As a father I know that he did a good job raising such good kids. And I can see the love flowing between a father and a son. Mr. Manuel was a good owner and person to us.

So it aches to really hear about the news and I know, none of my questions will be answered until this time. So instead, I'd like to make this as a tribute to the person who has in one way shared there resources and cascaded it to us, there employees. To the Ting Family, my condolences and to Mr Manuel Ting, may you rest in peace and may justice prevail.


P.S. I did not take any pictures in the event to give privacy to the grieving family and to ensure their security.

To commemorate the 112th Independence Day of the Philippines, Filipino Mountaineers joined forces in having a simultaneous flag raising ceremony at different mountain peaks last June 13, 2010 at exactly 8 o'clock in the morning. For Cebu Mountaineers, it was spear-headed by Ewit mountaineers and joined by almost 12 groups of mountaineering groups, and more than a hundred participants. All climbs leading to Babag Ridges (Chalet) using different routes to minimize the impact on the trail.

Its was our way of honoring and feeling the brave soldiers who fought for our freedom. It was at these mountains that they have hidden and meet for plans of there attacks. It may not be the best memory that I can recall on my history class but something close to that.

Everyone gathered at Guadalupe church and separated ways when everyone was ready. For Bagtak Mountaineers we were trekking the ______ trail. And it gave us some challenging obstacle like a kiss the wall trail in between the flower plots, with long assault to the peak, some slippery grass and walking in the not so well lighted path. We get a glimpse of the city from our trail and it was breath taking. It was a very tiring climb to the peak. The camp site was already dark when we arrived. But all these contributed to a wonderful experience of trekking to the peak.

The socials during the night was even a blast! The drinks, the laughter, new found friends and a lot of sharing. So I would say it was a two thumbs up for the organizers of the event for gathering such number of people to join the freedom climb. Hopefully this will be an annual event for local mountain lovers. So till next year mountaineers!