Luzon – Page 8 – Travel Up

Pasig River Ferry Route Map & Schedule for 2024

As a way to combat the traffic in the metro, the Pasig River Ferry System continues to offer FREE rides for the whole year starting January 2023. This is currently the only water-based transportation in Metro Manila that cruises along the Pasig River from Pinagbuhatan in Pasig to Escolta in Manila. The route passes through several cities including Pasig, Mandaluyong, Makati, and Manila.

One of the best things about this route is that bicycles, both folding and full-size versions, are permitted on the Pasig River Ferry, making it easier for bike commuters as well as leisure bikers who want to combine their trips with a river ferry ride to get to the Escolta or Intramuros area from other parts of the metro.

Travel Guide: Biking from Laiya to Malabrigo Lighthouse, Batangas

Laiya Beach, located in Laiya-Aplaya in San Juan, Batangas, is one of the most popular beaches within driving distance of Manila. The whole stretch here is a favorite weekend destination for families. You can enjoy water-based activities here like banana boats, kayaking, and island-hopping, or just chill out by the beach at one of the many resorts.

Since we’ve traveled to Laiya several times before, last May 2022 we decided to take our bicycles and spend a day just biking to experience a different side of the area.

New al fresco cafes with stunning views in Tanay, Rizal

Marilaque, the highway that spans Marikina-Rizal-Laguna-Quezon, has always been our go-to destination for weekend rides. For those based in cities in the North and East of Metro Manila (like Quezon City, Pasig, Marikina, etc.), this highway leading to Infanta through the Sierra Madre Mountains is the favored destination for road trips, much like Tagaytay for Southerners.

Travel Guide: Caliraya Lake-Pagsanjan Bike Loop

Caliraya Lake is a favorite destination among motorcycle riders and bikers based in Metro Manila for weekend rides. Located in the mountainous area of Lumban, Cavinti, and Kalayaan in Laguna, the area surrounding Caliraya Lake has also known as a top destination for outdoor recreation, water sports, retreats, and fishing.

Since travel has eased again after the pandemic, the area seems to be becoming more popular among families for car camping, glamping, and other outdoor nature activities. There are a lot more family-friendly resorts, glamping destinations, and new al fresco restaurants serving wider food options that have popped up in the area in the past two years.

Where to eat in Naga City: New al fresco cafes and outdoor dining spots

I recently revisited my hometown Naga City in the Bicol Region for the first time since the pandemic started. Like other places impacted by the lack of tourism the past two years, there have been a lot of changes to the food scene.

Food Trip: Naga City (updated 2022)

NOTE: As of June 2022, many restaurants in Naga City have closed because of the pandemic. I’ve rearranged this list to highlight those that are still currently operating for reference, but have retained the list of old restos in case they still reopen in the future. Most of the restaurants below are those within the main Naga City proper. Post-pandemic “Uptown Naga,” the area of Pacol and Carolina has also become popular for al fresco dining.

In recent years, my hometown Naga City in the Bicol Region has become a rising foodie destination. Every visit means that there are new restaurants waiting to be sampled, as well as old favorites that just have to be revisited.

Bikol cuisine is known as being spicy and sweet. Sili (chili peppers) and coconut milk (gata) are used in a lot of dishes, as well as pili nut products for desserts and a unique relish. Here’s a look at some of the best places where you can savor the flavors of Bikol (compiled from numerous visits to Naga to visit my folks), as well as some of the new restaurants worth checking out.

Where to stay in Laiya, Batangas: Sabangan Beach Resort

After biking through coastal areas and up steep mountain roads, it’s always great to just head back to a comfy base to have beer by the beach, enjoy meals, and chill out without having to drive back far to the city the same day.

Travel Guide: Biking from Baler to Dinadiawan and back

Baler is a laid-back coastal town in the province of Aurora that’s known mostly as a surfing destination. But it’s also an amazing base for riders and bikers to explore. In 2019, we took a road trip from Manila to Dingalan, Baler, Dipaculao and back by motorcycles and loved the vibe, so we decided to return and ride at a slower pace on bicycles in April 2022 as soon as travel restrictions eased.

Al fresco dining spots in Bonifacio High Street

Al fresco dining has been the pandemic’s saving grace. Providing safe yet enjoyable ways to delight in a good meal, and rediscover the joy of the great outdoors.

Most of the time, though, al fresco dining is only available in out-of-town restaurants which isn’t really practical when you’re not up for a long drive. The good news is that you no longer need to drive out of the city to find must try al fresco dining options.

At Bonifacio High Street (BHS), you can find all-time crowd favorites and date spots offering outdoor dining, allowing you to savor all sorts of cuisines to suit your taste without having to go very far.

Road Trip Guide: New al fresco cafes + things to do in Tagaytay

For those coming from Metro Manila, Tagaytay in Cavite is one of the most popular choices for a road trip or quick weekend getaway. You can enjoy the cooler climate with a refreshing view in this mountain town overlooking Taal Lake without having to drive too far.

We’ve all been cooped up for the past 2 years since the pandemic hit, and it’s great that we can finally rediscover and revisit our favorite spots again.

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