Quick Stop in Dipolog City

Dipolog City can be reached from Dapitan City in less than half an hour by taking a mini bus for only PHP25. This trip was just to enjoy few hours of my time while waiting for my boat ride back to Cebu scheduled at 7pm. 

**Mini buses from Dapitan to Dipolog runs along the main highway. 

After leaving Dapitan City get mesmerized with the vast greenery you can see along the way. Yup, it was my first time hence I had no idea where to drop off in Dipolog. Since I'm used in Bukidnon wherein most of its bus terminals are located in the public market, I waited 'till we entered a busy and crowded part of the city and sighed a sound of relief when I saw the terminal.

Undecided where to go, luckily there were several known food chains in the area such as Greenwich and Jollibee. I opted to go at the latter and took my lunch. Main transportation in the city are tricycles. I hailed one then asked for the attractions that I can visit in Dipolog. Manong driver recommended their public plaza and their famous boardwalk. 

I'm pretty sure that Dipolog is the manufacturer of the famous spanish sardines such as Zaragosa and Montanos. Unfortunately, the main store was closed since it's Sunday. I then went to a department store and bought 6 packs of sardines. Its price was at least PHP20 cheaper per bottle than in Cebu.

Here are some of my pictures taken around the public plaza and at the Our Lady of Most Holy Rosary Cathedral.

Dipolog's Public Plaza and National Road

Our Lady of Most Holy Rosary Cathedral

A Day in Dakak: "Daghang Kakahuyan"

The other day's activities in Dapitan did not stop us from exploring Dakak. The group woke up around 5am to catch the sunrise then off we go swimmin' on the cove. 

Dakak's Shoreline 

Others strolled its landscape and dipped on the pool. By the way, you have 3 swimming pools to choose from.

Choose where to dip

Each pool has its unique facilities to offer. One right beside their restaurant, perfect for kids since its not that deep nor with several levels of depth. The second pool has its slides, its the widest and I think with the deepest depth while the third pool has its perfect view of the ocean but you must wear proper swimming attire before dipping.

If you're into strolling Dakak's landscape is just right for you. You can find Chinese and Filipino inspired structures. I just love the chapel nestled on a mountain with an ocean view.

The group left Dakak around 11am. I then took a quick stop to Dipolog City (Quick Stop in Dipolog City). It was indeed a memorable weekend I had with my family before Beboy would leave the country. Thanks to Mama and Papa for this awesome treat!

Early Christmas Treat to the "Shrine City of the Phillipines"- Dapitan

It was a complicated itinerary we took last December 2012. Mama, Papa, Beboy and Queenie together with some KCES teachers needed to travel by land from Kalilangan to Dapitan for more than 9 hours while me on the other hand traveled overnight on board George Peter Lines from Cebu City. I was the earliest to arrive in Dapitan at around 6am. New to this city was such a challenge; no one fetched me at the pier hence I decided to disembark around 6:30am. I even thought of staying in the ship while I wait for them to arrive but I realized that it is not safe at all especially that I am travelling alone. By the way,they were scheduled to arrive at 10am so I have to wait for more than 3 hours.

Surprisingly, upon arrival I was greeted by friendly folks. I did not have any qualms of asking a vendor as to  where I can spend my time while waiting for my family. After having a quick breakfast I then rode a tricycle to visit Rizal Shrine which is less than 20 minutes ride from the pier.

Tip: Opt to ride a tricycle and pay PHP20 rather than a motorcyle.

I spent my entire morning in Rizal Shrine while waiting for my family and KNHS teachers. Kudos to the caretakers of this place for making me feel "at home". 

Rizal's Family Tree

The group arrived around 11am. We then quickly toured the place and took our lunch at Gloria de Dapitan theme park. Part of the package was a city tour which allowed us to see the historical landmarks of Dapitan.



@ Rizal Shrine

San Vicente Parish Church and Map of Mindanao created by Dr. Jose Rizal

San Vicente Ferrer Parish Church Interior

Streets of Dapitan City

Lunch at Gloria de Dapitan

After taking a quick rest at Dakak Beach Resort, the group conquered the rides at Gloria de Dapitan.

It was a tiresome but fun-filled day. Our pictures says it all :) To cap the night, we headed back to Dakak Beach Resort..stroll the area for few minutes then dozed off.