Hidden Panorama

Backpacking Adventures Southeast Asia

2011-04-08T02:37:00.000-07:00

Backpacking Adventures in Southeast Asia

My mountaineering group sometime planned for backpacking trip in three southeast asian countries. So aside from mountaineering this group of mine looking for another adventure, and this time its not mountain climbing.

After I got the news that backpacking activity will be pushed through, I made myself available for this activity because I knew for myself, this kind of opportunity will not be happened again or will happen again after so many years.

I knew for myself that this adventure will cost me some money because the plan is to travel in three different countries: Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand.

Below are the major cities that we had visited during this backpacking adventures.

1. Ho Chi Minh - Vietnam
2. Phnom Pehn - Cambodia
3. Siem Reap - Cambodia
4. Bangkok - Thailand

Total days we spent for this adventure were almost 9 days (from March 19 to 27) and for me, it's not enough, there are lots to see in these countries but I also believe, that you can't see everything in one day.

In my next blogs, I will feature in details all the stuff that my group and I did for this backpacking adventure and all the places that we visited.

Until then.

The Explorer

Alberta Aviation Museum - Edmonton (Part 9)

2010-11-05T20:39:00.000-07:00

When I arrived in Edmonton last April 2008, I used to pass Kingsway Avenue every time I travel from my place where I live in Downtown in Edmonton to anywhere, I used to see an airport beside this road. Before I thought it's the city's or town's commercial airport, but it seems it's kind of small for that purpose. And one thing that I noticed, few planes are landing to or flying from this airport.

Then, I asked some of my colleagues that time about the place until I understand that it's city's airport that I used to see is not the international airport that I was thinking of. And as far as I recall, I had a long trip from Edmonton International Airport to Downtown Edmonton, and the airport that I saw is just near in Kingsway Avenue which is just a few minutes from the place where I lived.

Edmonton City Centre Airport is also known as Blatchfold Field Airport where Alberta Aviation Museum which I visited is located. At the front of the museum, you can see some of plane displays as a sign that the place is an aviation museum.

I can't recall the name for the above plane

but the small one on its right bottom is

Boeing CIM-10B BOMARC (1958)

McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo (1957)

Most of the photos I got seems I am part of the photo, and because of that I tried to crop and modified (see some blurry part of the photo?) photo so that things that I saw inside or outside the museum are more visible.

Canadair CL-13 Sabre I

Beech D18S-3NM Expeditor (1952)

De Havilland Mosquito B.35 (representing FB.VI) (1943)

There are more planes that I saw but I haven't got of their pictures to show here. One of the unique things I experienced was when my buddy and I enter in Boeing 737-200 (1972), airplane, it is similar to the commercial plane we used to ride. And we were able to get inside the pilots area.

Inside Wester AirPlane (Boeing 737-200 (1972))

This plane above, I can't recall the name, so spare me for this one.

There are more planes to see in the aviation museum, and the great thing about it, it displays earlier airplanes that we may not be able to see flying anymore in our current time because they are now just part of aviation history.

After enjoying the tour inside the museum I bought some souvenirs as my remembrance from this museum.

I hope you enjoy this little story of mine about my tour in Aviation Museum in Edmonton Alberta, Canada which happened last June 7, 2008.

Remembering Gulugod-Baboy Mountain - My First Fun Climb

2010-06-09T01:36:00.000-07:00

This story was written to remember my first fun climb since I joined the mountaineering group. Like what I said from previous blog a year ago, after my first and major climb, the next thing is fun climb...(well most of you will think, that is weird, you climb the major climb first then fun climb next?). Well, I am just telling the truth and nothing but the truth.

My first fun climb held in Mabini, Batangas last Oct 25 to 26 2008. And the lucky mountain we climbed was Gulugod-Baboy Mountain. As far as I remembered, the group met at 7/11 in Pasay,Rotonda where the bus to Batangas is stationed. We traveled by bus from Pasay, Rotonda until we reached Batangas City, then we rode jeep until we reached the jump-off area in Mabini, Batangas near Anilao.

The great thing about the jump-off area are the wonderful view that it offers. I saw some beach from the ground and the beautiful sea that seems no end.

Here are some seaside snapshots I had while staying at jump-off area.

While waiting for other member in the group that will join the fun climb, we took our lunch near the jump-off area. While having lunch, rain fell. And since rain fell, this means, the trail will be muddy or slippery. But rain will not be the reason to stop mountaineers to go for the climb.

For this climb I met other members of the group and honestly to tell you, I have so much fun meeting them and its really great to know them.

As much as I remember, on this first fun climb, I experienced new things about climbing. Comparing my first and major climb to this climb, I realized that its not good to compare it, because each mountain have their own uniqueness, have their own features and challenges. My experiences when I climbed Mount Kinabalu were far way different when I climb Gulugod-Baboy Mountain.

For the photo above, I capture some part of the area where the rain already falling...

See the heavy clouds?

Here are the views that can be found while climbing Gulugod-Baboy Mountain.

These are also the photos that the sky seems to be unfriendly for the mountaineers

because it means one thing...its going to rain (we are lucky, the rain is in far from us)

Gulugod Baboy Mountain is just small mountain (has 500+ masl altitude) compared to Mount Kinabalu (with more than 4000+ masl). I cannot forget my experience while trekking this mountain. First we took the semi-steep small road which partially cemented that time, then we rested few minutes before taking the rough trail. For this climb, I will remember when the only thing I can hold on to were just grass leaves that I don't know if these leaves can handle my weight. There were many times that I slipped away because the track were muddy. Its just a good thing that my trekking pole was there to helped me. We passed grasses even taller than me.

When I reached the top, the feelings were wonderful and the amazing view from top was worth to see after such exhausted climb in few hours.

Here are the afternoon before sunset views I caught after reaching the camp

near the summit of the mountain

After reaching the top of the mountain near the summit, we also had a chance to witness the sunset view. With this kind of seeing sun is slowly hiding itself to people, the feeling so ecstatic. Sometimes you will think, how world is so fascinating with just having that moment.

Sunset Views

This first fun climb was also the first night having a great time with the group. I got a chance to get to know them for real. The group called it "Socials" where some secrets revealed, some information gave away either by just telling it through jokes or even in a serious way. There were lots of funs and laughters that made me feel that night will not be over. In that social activities with the group, I also had a chance to introduce myself to the group and my reasons why I like to climb.

This is the famous lonely tree branch - a significant mark used as a proof commonly

by mountaineers as evidence that they reached Gulugod-Baboy Mountain.

Here is the summit of the mountain - where my group made their important jump shots

Its getting dark ..

Even the group had so much fun over the night for social activities, everyone still able to wake up to witness the sunrise from the summit. And I am one of them who trek the trail to summit immediately to glimpse the sunrise for a moment.

The moment - Sunrise

After enjoying the rising sun from the summit,

here are the photos around the Gulgod-Baboy Mountain Summit

I truly treasure my experience in this climb, as second mountain to climb I knew for myself, that I still have a lots to learn in mountaineering.

Royal Alberta Museum - Edmonton (Part 8)

2010-03-10T23:13:00.000-08:00

Captured outside the museum

Captured inside the museum

I started to write my story about this place, it's almost a year that had been passed. But was not able to publish it in my blog immediately.

I visited Royal Alberta Museum same day when I went around Edmonton City, it was Saturday - June 7, 2008 . The tour I had that day started early in the morning, I also visited that day were Muttart Conservatory (just the vicinity area since it still under renovation), West Edmonton Mall, Alberta Aviation Museum, Government House and some historic places in Edmonton such as 24th Street. Well I considered that day as my Edmonton Day Tour.

For this article I will be focusing what I did and what I found in Royal Alberta Museum. Just additional information before I continue telling my story, after I visited two royal museums such as Alberta and British Columbia (in Vancouver), I quite understand that it seems that there might be another province in Canada that have their own royal museums. After checking in internet, I just found out that there is one in Saskatchewan and Ontario province. After I learned that, I felt good that at least I was able to visit two royal museums in Canada.

As far as I remember, it was more than an hour left when we went to Royal Alberta museum and it will be closed (the reason was, we visited other places and I never realized that museum's will be closing that so soon). Because of tight schedule, we were so aware about the time but honestly, while looking to each exhibit in that museum, how I wish I have more time.

There are two levels in Royal Alberta museum. First level has portion where you can see lots of wild animals that had been preserved in some ways, they call it "Wild Alberta". And for me, seeing those animals in up close and personal (although they are not moving anymore) was one of my amazing experience in that museum. There are lots of animals I saw in that gallery. I wish I can take pictures of all of them but that is impossible with short period of time that we had. The second level, composed of the gallery of Aboriginal Culture where you can see the earlier history of Canada. While in another room, you can view the Natural History Gallery for their beautiful stones and historic fossils.

Without further ado, lets begin my short journey in one of the beautiful museum I visited in Canada.

Wild Alberta

There are different kinds of zones in Wild Alberta.The following zones are: Borreal Forest Zone, Prairie Zone, Parkland Zone, Mountain Zone and Water Zone.

In Borreal Zone, I was quite exciting because I saw beaver that I felt like they were so real. I saw beaver while traveling in Banff but I am very far from it. Unlike in the exhibit I saw them closely and found how cute they are c",). I also found some caribou, wolf, moose, pelican and grouse. And even I have less time to see it, I still take my time to take pictures of some animals there.

Beaver

In Prairie Zone, I had fun enjoying the view of eagles. The museum exhibits different kinds of eagles. And eagles are the raptors that I really admire. The other animals I saw were: coyote, mule deer and prong horn. I also post with huge bison, the animal that I can't believe with an amazing size.

Coyote

Bison

Brown Bear

In Parkland Zone, I found birds and swans. This is the zone where the animals you can see in Borreal and Prairie were mixed. In this place, I enjoy the different sounds of birds tweeting in my ears. And most of the sounds soothes my ears. It's really different in a place like nature, the only difference of the museum to the nature, animals through dioramas are enclosed in glasses and not in motion.

In Mountain Zone, I found the mountain lion which similarly look like a tiger. Honestly without notes at the front of diorama there, I will really think they are tiger. Other animals that I saw were bighorn sheep, grizzly bear and mountain goat.

Lion

Bighorn Sheep

Mountain Goat Kid

And in Water Zone, I saw different fishes that was enjoyable to watch but since I have limited time, I was not able to capture some photos from this area.

Syncrude Gallery of Aboriginal Culture

When I visited this part of the museum, I totally understand who were the first people lived in Canada. They call them "First People" or "First Nation". While in this gallery it reminds me that this huge country of Canada has similarities in my own country Philippines when it comes to the first people. The way they live their life, like hunting is amazing. And the way they survive in the winter season. I saw a lot of unique stuff of Canada history.

winter ski shoe

Wolf during winter season

I saw the old winter ski shoe and that was awesome. Then I saw the clothes that the "First Nation are wearing during winter. I was able to see the ancient tools they used for living like rocks. The life that first people did to survive during ancient times such as Bison hunting. Even the kind of shelter that they live in. I remember when I visited Fort Edmonton Park, and thinking the Fur Trading Era. It connects everything. Seeing a very old and unique stuff were wonderful. The gallery showcased the artifacts of history from Ice Age up to the modern times of Canada specially in Alberta. It's really worth to know the Alberta history and of Canada as a whole.

Natural History Gallery

Since we just have few minutes left before the museum close, we tried to visit this gallery as much as we can. But even I tried to view all those stuff displayed, I still amazed and I can't stop admiring the things I saw in this gallery. I took a lot of time, viewing the wonderful stones displayed. Every stones displayed there, struck me and I can't believe I am seeing it.

Photos above are snapshot of different stones from a video since
I don't have good photos of these magnificent rocks

Then, I saw the fossils display in the gallery where you can find the dinosaur bones located at the side of the room.

Dinosaurs bones and fossils

Photo snapshot from video
to see inside the gallery

For me everything I saw in the museums are made of artwork and passion for history. I hope you enjoy the little story I had when I visited Royal Alberta Museum last June 2008.

Amazing Anawangin

2009-10-31T23:46:00.000-07:00

Trekking Mount Anawangin (a.k.a. Mount Pundaquit)

March 27, Friday night at 11:00 pm, the mountaineering group (SMB - Samahan ng Mountaineering Barkadas or Society of Mountaineering Berks) where I belong gathered at Monumento, Caloocan bus station. From here we took a bus and left the station past 12 am. Travel time is more than three (3) hours. We arrived at the front of San Antonio municipality building. Next, we waited half hour for our next ride, a three wheeled vehicle named as "tricycle". Then, we traveled again for few minutes until we reached the jump-off area at around 4:30 am. Before we start our trek, we rested for another few minutes. Almost 5:00 a.m., we setup our head lamp, pulled out our trekking pole and started to walk on the trail to Mount Anawangin.

First part of the trail is sandy because the jump-off area or the base of Mount Anawangin is not far from beaches. Then, we passed the rocky and dried river. We are lucky because the season we visited the place was summer – the best season to climb the mountain and enjoy beautiful white sand beaches. It’s still dark when we passed the dried river and we considered it already as a challenge. Just making a note that during rainy season the river we crossed used to have a fast flowing current and it is dangerous to cross the river. It is not advisable to pass this trail during rainy season.

This was the first time I trekked a mountain at an early hour of the morning but darkness did not stop me to push myself to an exciting and challenging trip to the mountain. While following the track of our journey, I was excited because, aside from the footsteps that I heard during the trek, I also heard the sounds of the cricket crackling from the grass that we passed by. Half hour went by and we still have a smooth climb. After 5:30 a.m., the sun starts to rise and gives light to the place where we are. The paths we are following become visible to us. From time to time we pause for few minutes to take rest. During this time, I took opportunities to capture photos of the surrounding of the place. The beauty of Mount Anawangin becomes evident to my eyes.

Pictures I captured while trekking Mount Anawangin

While climbing the mountain, I can see a similar panorama - a mountain ranges look like view but it’s actually part of Mount Anawangin itself. This mountain is not the same as other mountains being covered by lots of trees; it is surfaced with mostly by grass. During the time we trekked the mountain, some part of it just underwent from recent fires which normally happens in mountains to recycle the nutrients it has.

Photos above are scenery in the middle of the mountain before descending

We continue to ascend Mount Anawangin. The mountain has almost 500 masl (meter above sea level) altitude. The group did not tried to go to its peak or summit except for two senior and most experienced members. The rest of the group decided to descend the mountain after taking a short break. While resting near the summit of the mountain, I grab all my chance to take pictures of the place. I was stunned by the beauty of the nature I saw at the top of the mountain. We saw Anawangin beach resort from a far, a small pyramid hill and the gulf like end part of Anawangin coast. The blue skies that surround the beautiful nature made the view even perfect. The exhaustion that we experienced during the climb seems to immediately wipe out because of the fascinating view we discovered. All of us who brought camera took our own pictures and to be honest, I got lot of shots of amazing view of Anawangin from the top of mountain.

Panoramic views near the summit of Mount Anawangin

Reaching the Wonderful Place

After we saw the attraction of Anawangin beach from a far, all of us in the group were excited to reach the coast. After resting of more than half hour near the summit, the group started to descend the mountain. Our journey while on our way to the coast become easier, maybe because of the excitement we felt. When we reached the ground, we crossed another sandy trail, dried river, a pond and a forest just to reach Anawangin coast.

Descending the mountain has same effect on me similar to ascending it. I experience the mountain itself. And this kind of moment, I appreciate the beauty of the mountain and it cannot be compared by just looking the mountain from far location. I did not take much pictures because my point and shoot digital camera was not with me. One of my co-mountaineers offered me to bring my stuff and my camera was on it. After few hours of descending the mountain, we rested beside the pyramid hill we saw while we are at the top of Mount Anawangin.

I just wanted to share the experience we had when we are passing the dried river. Since the group was quite big, we reached Anawangin beach by batch. I was accompanied by other three female co-mountaineers and there was a time that we thought we were at lost because the leading batch in front of us was gone, because of that we had to adventure the track on our own, which was not really a problem, it was just confusing. The principles of signs help us to get back on the right trail. The first batch arrived at the coast left signs near the trail by using two stones. But I knew it's not the perfect sign or symbol but it indeed helped us to get our way to the beach.

After dried river, we passed forest and pond. The color of the water in the pond is brown that makes the scenery different but it is nice to look at. We continue the walk until we saw the beach.

Enjoy the Beauty of Anawangin

At last we reached the beautiful and serene coast. The seawater I saw was very calm and I cannot stop myself to appreciate the beauty of nature in front of me. The different degree of color blue from the sea side and beyond made the beach view amazing. The sea water scenery made Anawangin beach so lovely.

Beautiful Anawangin Coast

Since the group were all tired, we immediately put down our backpacks our tables, then the group in-charged for lunch started their assigned tasks, fortunately I was part of that group. I do not have to tell the details about preparing our lunch stuff but one thing I can say, all of us were happy and had a wonderful time doing our chores because we were aware that we were at one of the best place to unwind and at the same time enjoy the nature.

After lunch, I rested and fall asleep for more than an hour. When I woke up, I decided to walk for while by myself at the beach to explore the place. By the way, all pictures that I got from the beach were captured during this time. I enjoyed the water at the seaside and it is very clear because I was able to see the sands underneath. Because I overwhelmed on its luminosity, I even walked with my barefoot at the sand of the coast and I let the water get into my feet. I enjoyed taking pictures while walking at the side of the beach.

More of Anawangin Beach

Next thing that I did was I went to the rocky part of the beach which located at the left part of the coast facing the sea. From this place I was able to sneak some shots with different angles of the coast including the mountain that we had climbed.

Fantastic sceneries while walking at the side of the beach

After spending some time from rocky part, I stopped at the side of the pond where the water color is brown. For me the pond views are still perfect for me. Looking beyond the other end of the pond looks like it is a river. The other side of the pond also shows forest like scenery because of trees that surrounds the area.

Some photographic scenery at the side of the pond in Anawangin near the beach

I went back to the camp where my group is staying. After few hours passed again, the group went to the side of the beach by playing the sand, swimming, snorkling and or just take pictures of the group. Before we ended the day, we watched the sunset while at the side of the beach, we enjoyed the silhouette that my group crafted. And the last but not the least, we enjoyed posing to every corner of the beach and along with the pond.

Amazing Sunset - Perfect for lovers ..c",)

During the night the next thing happened; we had our dinner and social activities in the evening as part of our recreational activities while at Anawangin.

Island Hopping

Next day was Sunday, we had our breakfast and we packed our backpacks for the next adventure. The group wore life jacket as our protection if something happened to us in the middle of the sea. Then, we hit the sea water to visit some islands near Anawangin. We started to travel with our rides called as "Bangka” (a small motor boat) at around 10:00 a.m... While seafaring and doing island sightseeing we experienced the heat of the sun, but we ignored it because we were more excited to the experience we were having at the time.

While on the sea, even I know that I should keep my camera inside my backpack, I could not help myself but to take it out and take pictures while on our way to the first island we are going to visit. I took pictures while leaving Anawangin coast. I took some pictures of unfamiliar islands and the sea itself.

Some photos when leaving Anawangin for ssland hopping

We first stopped at Kamara Island. This is the island where the old lighthouse can be found. After traveling for one hour we reached the island and we took time to enjoy the view from this place. We saw Anawangin in different viewpoint and the nearby views from the location of the old lighthouse. I really like the panoramic views that I witnessed from this place. We spent one hour of rest in the lighthouse.

Some of the captured photos while traveling in the middle of the sea with our ride called "Bangka"

The lighthouse still serves its purpose, but it is very old. The building structure is not in good shape anymore, its roof is totally ruined. The walls unpainted and it looks like no one is maintaining the building anymore. In short no one is using the building itself except the tower part where the lights located.

Inside and Outside of Kamara Island

After Kamara Island, we went to Capones Island for half hour. To our surprise, Capones Island offers a great beach. The sands are white and the place is just beautiful. And because of that, the group decided to spend another 30 minutes to just enjoy the little island. I did snorkling for a short period of time and I love what I found under the sea, coral reefs with colourful tiny fishes.

Short trip at Capones - great for swimming and snorkling

I have to admit, after few minutes in Capones Island, the end of our summer adventure ended but we treasured all the memories of the places and the experiences we had if not forever but for a very long time.

time. Some photos while on our way back to Anawangin at the other side of it. Best place to view Anawangin mountain.

West Edmonton Mall - Edmonton (Part 7)

2009-06-29T01:42:00.000-07:00

I do not have so much stories about West Edmonton Mall during my visit on this place. But one thing reminds me about this mall, I thought at first, that people living in Edmonton does not like going to the mall, because I have this impression in malls in Edmonton City. For intance, Bay Mall and City Centre which are both located in downtown but it seems like a ghost town mall for me. Why? One reason - I found few people visiting this place.

To my surprise, when I went to West Edmonton Mall for the very first time, there were lots of people inside it. When I realized that, I tried to find out why. Before I able to answer my own question, I need to stroll inside the mall.

First reason, West Edmonton Mall is really really huge, based on information that I got, this mall used to be the largest mall in the world, but China built two huge malls, West Edmonton Mall are now the third largest mall in the world and largest mall in North America. Can someone imagine how big this mall is? What will be your reaction if you will find out that there is a beach like resort inside this mall? When I heard this, I was shocked. I cannot imagine a beach inside the mall. I knew I need to visit West Edmonton Mall.

One of inside view of the mall (This photo was cropped,
there is a big fish sculpture and I was inside it)

I visited West Edmonton Mall twice. The first one was just to stroll around the place but I never able to take photos that time because I was not comfortable and there are lots of people walking around the place. After strolling around, I decided to watch one of the scheduled shows. I watched sea lions show. This show was the second sea lion show that I watched. The first one was the time I had a vacation in Singapore. I recorded a video of the the show as my souvenir, I was entertained while watching it. I was fascinated by the people who controlled the sea lions. For me, it takes a lot of effort on their side to have a show with special animals. And I can say that it is one of the distinct talent of human. The show can be found at Sea Lions Rock at Deep Sea Adventure inside West Edmonton Mall.

Sea Lion at Sea Life Cavern

Photos above is place to watch a sea lion show

Bridge at Sea Life Cavern

After sea lion show, I visit Sea Life Cavern, wherein I saw lot of underwater species. And I enjoyed watching creatures such as fish, sharks, sting rays, penguin and reptiles. During the time I visited the place, their was ongoing presentation done by one of the crew and she was explaining something about reptile bone.

The second time I visited this huge mall was happened last June 7, 2008 - Saturday, last Saturday I spent in Edmonton. I toured the mall together with my buddy at work. This buddy of mine likes a sister to me. She is also a Filipina who migrated in Canada together with her all family. Since she was with me, I got a lot of chance to take pictures of famous spot of the mall. Honestly, I tried to find photos inside this mall without myself and to my surprise all pictures that I have in this mall I was there.

All the pictures that I have are memories of this huge mall. Here are some of the famous place to be found inside West Edmonton Mall: Ice Palace, World Waterpark, Deep Sea Adventure and Professors Wem's Adventure Golf. I also found the Chinatown place, The Galaxyland Amusement Park and Bourbon Street.

Ice Palace is a place to watch hockey game. When I visited this part of the mall, there are young kids (both guys and gals) were playing.

Ice Palace

I never tried to get inside "The Galaxyland Amusement Park" since I am too old to play in this place.

World Waterpark is the indoor beach-like resort where you can swim and just enjoy water. I actually like the slides built beside the resort. This resort has man-made waves wherein you will feel like you are totally in a beach. Edmonton has no beach because it is surrounded by land areas and this is the right place if you want to enjoy the beach like atmosphere. The people who enjoy the place are also the same people who enjoy the beach outside. They just either stay beside the water and enjoy the sun rays passing the glass ceilings of water park.

Inside World Waterpark

Parking beside Waterpark

I also found a bungee jump beside the world water park. I had fun watching the kids enjoying the jump. Next, we found the Deep Sea Adventure wherein I saw Santa Maria - a see fleet with exact replica of Christoper Columbus Santa Maria. For me its a real classic boat. I also found some people who dine at the docking area of the fleet. Well, it is indeed quite cute for me as a place for a dating with someone.

Christpher Columbus Santa Maria fleet replica

My buddy and I continued strolling around the place until we found an awesome golf course place, Professors Wem's Adventure Golf. This golf course is a mini golf course with lot of small areas to allow different players to play golf.

Professors Wem's Adventure Golf

Chinatown is a place for Chinese restaurants and stores. While Bourbon Street is a place mostly for western restaurants and diners.

There were lots of things I saw in this mall and I did enjoy strolling around the place. But for someone who really wanted to explore the place, one day is not enough. Before I forgot, I also found the Fantasyland Hotel wherein I saw an architectural design which similar to Europe.

Fantasyland Hotel

That is all I have to say about West Edmonton Mall.

Davao - Adventure All In One

2009-05-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

I planned my vacation in Davao. I knew for myself that it will be a long time again before I will be able to come back in this place. After four days climbing of Mount Apo, I spent another three days touring around Davao. I wanted to see more and experience this place at the South.

On my 4Th day in Davao (Digos City to be exact), the day we just completed the climb, we went to the city from Digos City to Davao City and we looked for a cheap hotel. I had a hotel booking but I never showed up to that hotel because my mountaineering group made me realized to spend more with the adventure instead on hotel, they also told me that the hotel was just a place wherein I will just sleep at night and will be gone most of the day.

Day 4 - February 28 , 2009 (Saturday)

We are thirty mountaineers who successfully conquered Mount Apo. Five out of thirty had been left at the jump-off area (and I was one of them) to wait for another van that will bring us to the city. We were atDigos City that time and we are going to Davao City. We waited for an hour. And to our surprise, the vehicle that will bring us to the city that arrived was not a van but a huge track that used to transport vegetables. Since we do not like to wait longer, we never bothered even it is a truck because we were all eager to go down to Davao City. The travel time from Baruring (jump-off area) to Davao City took us more than two hours. Since this was my first time in Davao, I never slept during the travel time, I enjoyed lots of scenery (most of the scenery photos I saw during the travel time to Davao City were posted in my blog "Mount Apo And The Boulder Challenge"). But one thing that I really like in that travel, I experienced the fresh and cold air of Davao because the truck was open, two of us were sitting at the front beside the driver because we were the only females left at the jump-off area, the other three gentlemen were at the back of the truck enjoying the sun rays, but I knew they were luckier than us because they have a wide scenic view of all places that we pass by while we were on our way to Davao City.

We arrived at Davao almost 1PM that day. We went directly to the mall (SM Davao) to have our lunch. That was the first time we will be having a nice and good meal. Living in the mountain for almost four days were not that easy. We had our lunch at Mang Inasal restaurant. And this was also the last place where half of the group parting each other before flying back to Manila.

The hotel/dormitory where I stayed for 4 nights
Photos above are copyrighted by my co-mountaineer named Matt

After lunch, we went to the recommended hotel given to us by one of our Mount Apo guide. Well the hotel named is D'Counter. It is a fast food and executive dormitory. We were seven who stayed at D'Counter. The dormitory or hotel are located at the downtown of Davao City near at People's Park. I rested for a while because both of my feet were aching and I felt tired, I just wanted to lay in the bed that time. Before we ended that night, all of us who stayed in D'Counter went out for dinner and we had a great time talking about the experiences we had while climbing Mount Apo.

Day 5 - March 1, 2009 (Sunday)

I spent my day in the morning to a special event, then I went out to buy souvenirs for family and friends back in Manila.

At 2PM, one of the mountaineers who also stayed in Davao, called me if I wanted to join them for the zip line. When I got his message, I immediately agreed with him. I took a cab and went to Outland Adventure which located at Ma-a Davao City. I thought, I was the first to arrived at the place but I made mistake because my co-mountaineer and his friends were already at the location where zip line starts.

I never got a chance to take picture here...

The river that I need to cross before
I will be able to go to the zip line (above and below) ...

The stairs quite long that I need to take...
My co-mountaineer and his friends
Photos above are copyrighted by Carl Jovy

While on my way to the zip line, I discovered that I need to cross a river. Outland Adventure provided a small flat wood used to carry people to be able to cross the river. After crossing the river I have to trek a hill side and this somewhat surprised me because I haven't had enough time to rest from Mount Apo climb, but I was able to deal with the challenge. I arrived at the location. I saw my co-mountaineers and his friends. He introduced me to his friends and started to talk about zip line. While waiting for our turn, I was wondering that time, what it feels like when flying in zip line, I was excited though I was nervous. And the view of the river adds some spice to the nervousness that I have that time. We were five and I was second to the last in the group to fly in the zip line. The guide helped me to prepare my harness and my safety tools because my survival depends on these kind of stuff.

Some photo memories with zip lines

Time came and I ready myself. It was my first time and to be honest I was skeptical about flying in the zip line and because of that I chose the sitting position, it is not really sitting - it was called sitting because of the style of the gear that I will be wearing during the fly. I was actually in standing position. The guide loosen up holding of me and I started flying. The feelings I had that time were mixed. The apprehension was still with me. I was holding with the rope and I tried to focus in the surroundings. I saw the place in its 360 degree view. And after seeing the nature's beauty, I felt so relax and appreciate the beauty of Outland Adventure. I forgot few minutes that I was flying and I was being hold only by harness. I was flying so fast. The experience was so great. When I arrived at the end, that was the only time I reminded myself I was flying in zip line.

Some scenic views I found inside the Outland Adventure

After zip line adventure, we decided to go to Crocodile Park. We had great a time in this place. There are lots of animals that can be seen here aside from crocodiles itself. There were birds, snakes, tiger, monkeys and more. There are shows inside the park which displays special animals and we were able to watch a special presentation wherein a man walking and dancing in a rope. And the exciting part, at the ground, there are lots of crocodiles. Is that not amazing? One mistake of that performer could lead to a tragedy because he might harm by those crocodiles. And I had fun watching it. People who also watch the shows used to scream if they thought that the performer might fall.

Some photos of crocodiles

Few photos of parrot

Tiger

Some of the animals that I saw inside the Crocodile Park
(I forgot some of the names of the other animals)

One of the old crocodile which now displayed inside Crocodile Park

Myself with the special animals

Day 6 - March 2, 2009 (Monday)

I booked a one day tour in Davao. The itinerary are the following: Davao City Downtown, Philippine Eagle Center, Eden Nature Park, Jack's Ridge and Crocodile Park. Well, like I said Crocodile Park again.

For the Davao City downtown, I don't have so much photos because we never went out during the tour. The tourist guide just point each one of the place and explain the history inside the van. I was never really bothered because it is just around the corner of downtown. What I really wanted to see are Eden Nature Park, Philippine Eagle and Jack's Ridge.

These three places are quite far away from downtown of Davao City. First destination, Philippine Eagle Center which located in Malagos, Calinan Davao City. I was really excited to go to this place. Why? I wanted to see lots of Philippine Eagles. I have this great admiration to my country's own eagle. I used to see them only in TV and photos. But before we arrived in Philippine Eagle Center, I had a problem. My digital camera's battery were almost empty. Before the van picked me up that day, I tried to find a nearest store for the battery of my camera but I was not lucky. And because of that I have few photos I got inside the Philippine Eagle Center. Anyway, the photos were just bonus in my tour, the experience was the note worthy.

Owl

Some of the Philippine Eagles

The tourist guide I have in this tour knew someone inside the Philippine Eagle Center. He requested if one of the eagle can be take out from the cage so that I can see it up close and personal. At first, I was hesitant to be near with the eagle but few minutes I enjoyed it since there was a guide who knows how to handle an eagle. I like the eagle the most when they are flying and their wings are spread wide open. They are so huge and I can not stop myself to admire them. For me, they are the most beautiful raptor in the world. For what I know they are one of the largest eagle in the world too. Before I totally leave the center, I bought shirt and cup as my souvenir from this place.

Souvenir with Durian Tree

After Philippine Eagle Center, we went to Eden Nature Park at Toril, Davao City. Eden Nature Park is located at the foot of Mount Talomo, the mountain beside Mount Apo. Before we ended up to Eden Nature Park, we stopped by in one of the house because we saw "Durian" tree, the Davao fruit (with unpleasant smell but with great taste). Due to my curiousity, I tried to taste Durian and for me it taste good while I was in Philippine Eagle Center.

After taking a couple of pictures with Durian tree, we continue our travel to Eden Nature Park. Since I really like nature. I did enjoy my short visit in this park. I was able to see the beauty inside this nature park. Before I started my tour inside the nature park, myself and the tourist guide had our lunch at Vista Restaurant. After lunch, while waiting for the shuttle, we visit the Aviary wherein you can find some specifies of birds.

Birds I found at Aviary inside Eden Nature Park

We waited for the shuttle tour at Day Tour Center and the tour will start at 1PM. The shuttle tour came and I rode at the front of the shuttle beside the driver. The following places we saw inside the Eden Nature Park are: Fishing Village, Hydrophonic Vegetable Garden, Mangosteen Orchard, Flower Garden, Amphitheater Garden, Matinlo Pond, Tree Nursery, Ornamental Nursery, Organic Vegetable and Herb Garden, Lola's Garden, Fruit Collection, Pinoy Games center, Swimming Pool and the logde, rooms, villas where the visitors can stay if they want to spend few days in the park. During the tour, I wish I just trek the place so that I can appreciate it more. But I knew I don't have enough time to do that. And because of the situation I was contended to see the places from a far especially the places where the shuttle did not stop.

Souvenir Shop inside Eden Nature Park

Day Tour Center

Eden Nature Park Map

Lettuce Vegetable Gardeen

Mangosteen Farm

Amphitheater Garden

Lookout view from Amphitheater Garden

The Garden near Amphitheter Garden

Nipat Hut (small house I saw while touring Eden Nature Park)

Flowers found at Lola's (grandmother's) Garden

Mayumi's (means beautiful) Well

The Carabao (sculpture) - Philippine National Animal

Organic Vegetable and Herb Garden
(medicinal farming)

Scenic Views from Eden Nature Park zip line

Next destination after Eden Nature Park, we went directly to Jack's Ridge which located at Shrine Hill in Matina, Davao City. Jack's Ridge was the last stand of Japanese in Davao during their invasion time in Philippines and American soldier successfully won over Japanese and retreat on this place after they lost the fight.

Myself with Japanese Soldier Structure

Lumad means group of indigenous peoples of the southern Philippines

Text on the walls are Jack's Ridge history

I like the place because there are lots of restaurants around it and the place is great for Davao Gulf lookout view. While looking around, I saw a pool which called as Kool's Kat Pool. One interesting thing that caught my attention is an old Japanese crashed plane at the top hill side of the pool. And based from my tourist guide, it was a real Japanese plane during Japanese regime. The locals made it permanent on its place as a historical signature of Jack's Ridge.

Kool Kat's Pool inside Jack's Ridge

Crashed Japanes Plane during World War II
(or during Japanese Invasion)

Day 7 - March 3, 2009 (Tuesday)

My last day in Davao came. Before I left the dormitory, I packed all my stuff so that I will just pick it up at night for my flight to Manila. My co-mountaineers and I with his group planned to go for water tubing and snorkling in Sta.Cruz, Davao Del Sur. The adventure had been arranged together with one of our Mount Apo guide. Early in the morning, we started rolling the wheels to Sta.Cruz. We went to Sibuyan River for water tubing. Water tubing is similar to water rafting, but instead of using raft and paddle to enjoy the river, water tubing used inflated tires.

Some Sibuyan River views

We started from the basic, a short distance tubing. The distance like 10 to 15 meters. We played one by one. Since this was my first time to do this, there was part of me being scared but I was also excited. Well that kind of feeling sometimes unexplainable. After the first round, we did it again twice. I enjoyed the tubing, the feeling playing with the fast flowing of water was different, especially in the part of the river where I was going to fall along the flow of the water.

Preparing our gear....

The White Water Tubing Adventure moments
Photos copyrighted by Sir Gabo (our Mount Apo Climb Guide)

After the basics, we took another round. This time, we tried the longer part of tubing. This means that we experienced a long distance of the river estimating 30 to 40 meters long. We experience the different levels of water flowing because of the unique leveling of beds of the river. After the first round, we tried the group tubing wherein we are look like of a caterpillar while enjoying the river. The group had so much fun on this adventure.

More White Water Tubing Adventure moments
Photos copyrighted by Sir Gabo (our Mount Apo Climb Guide)

The last adventure that I had after water tubing was snorkling. We went to the beach which is also located in Sta.Cruz in Davao Del Sur. The life vest we used in tubing were also brought in snorkling activity. When I saw the beach and the color of the sea I felt good. Well nature makes me happy whether its mountains, rivers and seas just to name a few. We rented two small boats and we headed at the middle of the sea.

The Snorkling Adventure moments
Photos copyrighted by Sir Gabo (our Mount Apo Climb Guide)

When we arrived at the middle, I saw mountains from a far in Sta.Cruz and the scenery was amazing. After the short time viewing of scenery around Sta. Cruz we started getting out of the boat and started swimming. This was the first time I experienced swimming very far from the beach. It seems like we are in the middle of nowhere. Then, I wore gagles and started enjoying the under water view. But I was not really a good swimmer but I did enjoy the snorkling adventure. We were at the middle of the sea under the sun for within two hours, but I did not care about sun rays, I wanted to enjoy every minute at the middle of the sea. This kind of adventure does not always happened everyday. At the last part, all of us did enjoy this snorkling thing and I myself had a great time.

More Snorkling Adventure moments
Photos copyrighted by Sir Gabo (our Mount Apo Climb Guide)

I went back to the D'Counter hotel where I stayed my few nights vacation in Davao City downtown to pick my luggage. Then I arranged the taxi cab that will drive me to the airport because that night I went back to Manila that ends my vacation and let myself back to the real world again of my life.

Fort Edmonton Park - Back To The Past Tour - Edmonton (Part 6)

2009-04-17T16:29:00.000-07:00

Fort Edmonton Photo mixed

Almost one year passed but my visit in Canada still memorable with me, maybe because I loved the places that I saw in this country. For the last weeks that I stayed in Edmonton, I considered visiting a famous park during spring and summer season. I remembered that I planned to go to Fort Edmonton Park last May 24 2008, Saturday but what happened that day was I took a bus going to the park and the bus stopped at the park bus stop but suddenly I changed my plan and I went home.

The actual tour at Fort Edmonton Park did materialized last May 31 2008, Saturday. That time, I was firm in my decision to see the park or else I will not be able to visit it anymore. I went at the park in the afternoon. But before going to the park, there was incident that I waited for an hour for the bus going directly to the park. I was in Alberta University bus stop station that time because I got a pamphlet of bus saying that it goes to the park every weekend, but my mistake was that, the bus schedule was only Sunday and not Saturday. After waiting for an hour, I decided to take a bus going to West Edmonton Mall since it will stop either in Whitemud or Fox Drive bus stop which near in the park.

Almost near at the entrance gate? Not yet..c",)

After arriving at the bus stop, I thought the entrance gate was near, but I walked for a while until I reached it. My curiosity to visit this historical park started when someone from the office mentioned to me that what I can see at the parkland are the old days of Edmonton, 18Th to early 19Th century period of the city. And another one told me that I will see people wherein they will reenact the old century time and for me that was amazing.

First thing that greets me after I bought my entrance ticket to the park was the old train and they call it steam train. Honestly, I only saw this kind of train from the classic movies that I watched and I was kind of thrilled after I saw it. And I told to myself, "I think I am going to enjoy this tour."

The People and the Streetcar

Inside the Streetcar

Egge's Barn and Bunkhouse at 1920 Street

Blatchford Field Air Hangar at 1920 Street

Hotel Selkirk at 1920 Street

Fire Hall & Town Hall & Police Station at 1905 Street

Ernest Brown Studio at 1905 Street

Fire Hall & Town Hall & Police Station at 1905 Street

Reeds Bazaar & Tea Shop with Ernest Brown Studio at 1905 Street

At 1905 Street

Next, I went to the streetcar station near the steam train station. And I waited for the approaching streetcar. I saw a lot of people inside it. And I knew they enjoyed the trip. I checked my park map and found the trail of the street car. I decided to take a ride because I knew I do not have enough time to stroll around the parkland. While riding with the streetcar, I saw 1920's and 1905's street together with the houses and building structures during those time. And I felt like I was living in the past for a moment. Since it was a short ride, I grabbed all my chance to take pictures. Based on the pamphlets that I was holding, 1905 is called as Municipal Era wherein I found few churches, post office, Bank of Montreal, Fire Hall and Police Station.

On my way to steam train station

Steam train

Hotel Selkirk and Blachford Air Field Hangar

1920's Midway and Exhibition

Inside the steam train

After the streetcar rides, I went back to the steam train station to experience the classic train. What do I expect in the steam train? One was the whistle sound of the train which the same of what I heard in the movies. Before I hopped in to the train, I approached one woman dressed in 18Th century and I requested if I can take picture with her and she agreed. There were lots of people inside the train. Mostly were families, parents and their kids. The last stop of the train was near at "The Fort" (Fur Trading Area), I walked for few minutes until I reached "The Fort" gate. "The Fort" was a place for fur trading and what I saw was a place in its earlier time from late 17Th to 18Th century. "The Fort" showcased what the community looks like during the old centuries. The place also shows the architectural design of home which made of woods and houses with small windows. Most of the houses has its brick fireplace and chimney. Not only the walls shows its era, but also the flooring, the tables, chairs and beds. While looking inside the houses I felt like I was living in the past again. While wandering the other part of "The Fort", I am wondering the purpose of fur and I realized that Edmonton is located near North wherein the weather is winter more than a half year round. I can imagine that people living in this place needs fur for the winter season. And Canada has its native people which they call it "First Nation" which are Indians and their life used to hunt animals and the skin animals are being used as a fur. After "The Fort" area, I continued the exploration of this historical park. I found Native Camp wherein I saw an Indian lady (which represents first nation of Canada). I had my photo with her as my souvenir. I found an open store and I bought a boat display to remember Fort Edmonton Park.

Clerk's Quarter

Inside Rowhand House

Clerk's Quarter

Time? (maybe)

Chess? (not sure)

One of the room at Indian Trader Store

Inside the Indian Traders Store

One of the room at Indian Traders Store

Blacksmith Shop

Native Camp

Next destination was the 1885 street. The street called as Settlement Era. From this place I found school, carpentry shop, jewelry, Methodist church, drug store and bakery. I checked almost all building structure in this avenue. I was amazed for all the things that I saw. A truly 1885 street. The avenue, shows that during this time, the people lived that time showed that their lives improved compared with fur trading time.

1885 Street

Raymer's Jewellery

Inside Jasper Hotel

1885 Street

Lauder's Bakeshop & Residence at 1885 Street

Inside the Methodist Church at 1885 Street

1885 Street

Jasper House Hotel

Daily Drug Store & Dr. Wilsons Office at 1885 Street

Kelly's Sallon at 1885 Street

Henderson Round Barn

After 1885 street, I continue strolling up to 1905 street, I found a barn and farm house. Then, some of the stores which already closed because its past 6PM. It made me sad but I can not do anything about. There was no train anymore and because of that I have to walk from 1905 to the exit gate. I passed again the 1920 lane. And what I did was capture scenery as many as I can.

At the entrance / exit - Steam Train Station

Edmonton Park Entrance

Fort Edmonton Park

The trip was great and I titled it as "Back To The Past Tour".

Mount Apo and the Boulder Challenge

2009-03-26T01:20:00.000-07:00

Mount Apo is the the highest mountain in the Philippines. It has an altitude of 10,311 ft and ranked as 98Th prominent mountain in the world. It is located in Davao in Mindanao. This mountain is called as "master" or "Grandfather of Philippine Mountains"

The plan to climb Mount Apo was made last year. After the group found out that there was promotional flight to Davao (which cost less), the group grabbed the opportunity and we booked our flight five months earlier. After Mount Kinabalu climb wherein I was also part of the team, the group targeted Mount Apo. But, the plan to climb Mount Apo had a lot of preparations compared with Mount Kinabalu.

October 2008, training plan had been laid out. The plan were long distance walking, two mountain training climb (different mountain) and wall climbs. After the plan had been announced to us, I did understand that the group really made a big deal with Mount Apo. And because of that I realized that I should not take the climb so lightly.

The whole group took it seriously and because of that, we took all the trainings that had been planned. We all knew that if we will not force ourselves to attend these trainings, we will be the one who will suffer in the end because it will be very difficult to someone to climb Mount Apo without enough preparation.

November 15, 2008 Saturday was scheduled for fun walk and the fun walk last more than six hours for more than 30 kilometers walk. Then, November 22 2008 and January 13 2009 both were Saturdays were scheduled for wall climbs. And January 24-25 and February 7-8 both Saturday and Sunday for mountain training climbs. With that training plan in placed, we kept in our mind that Mount Apo climb will not be an easy task.

Since I am a rookie mountaineer (Mount Apo was my fourth climb), I prepared all my stuff. Like what I learned in mountaineering, I have to be self sustain and self equip. I created my personal checklist. I bought trekking pole because most of my previous climbs I used to borrow trekking pole with other mountaineers. I bought my personal first aid kit (just in case I need it or if someone from the group need it), first aid kit was required to all Mount Apo team, this also includes a mask because there is a sulfur pillars part in the mountain near the trail that we are going to pass. More than a week, I gathered all my things that I am going to bring during the climb. I bought another small backpack since I settled my own personal porter. I had many days of packing and unpacking my things. To be honest, at first I have a short checklist, then I keep on updating it because I do not want to miss anything that will jeopardize my climb. Mount Apo climb is not a fun climb, it is a major and difficult climb.

I think my introduction is enough.

Day 1 - Wednesday - Feb 25, 2009

NAIA Terminal 3

1AM meeting at NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) Terminal 3. Cebu Pacific flight is now stationed in Terminal 3. Terminal 3 is one of the elegant airport in the Philippines. Maybe because the terminal was still new. The terminal was exclusive on Philippine Airlines before, but
now, Cebu Pacific is currently stationed here. We met at early hours even though our flight to Davao is around 4AM. At 3 AM, we checked-in our backpacks and around 3:30 AM we were started getting on board. Before 4AM, we were all inside the plane. We arrived at Davao International Airport around 5:30 AM, flight was ahead on its schedule.

Davao City from the top (shot from the plane)

Davao International Airport and its premises

We have a contact group (which included tourism officer and mountaineering group) in Davao that will lead us to our Mount Apo climb adventure. This group picked us at the airport and led us to the jump off area. But before we left the airport, the group discussed the itinerary plan of the climb. Then, we hit the road. All of us are in the group are first time in Davao. After we found out that travel time will take some hours, each one of us took our own opportunity to sleep and rest before the climb start.

Some Views we saw while on our way to Baruring

(photos above with border are copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

It took us 2.5 to 3 hours from the airport to jump-off area at Baruring. After arriving at Baruring we started to trek to see the Tudaya Falls before we start the formal climb. We descent 1.5 hours to Tudaya Falls and ascent same hour from the falls to Baruring.

Some of the views captured while on our way to Tudaya Falls

Pathway to Tudaya Falls (photo with border is copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

Before we descent to Tudaya Falls, we were advised to just bring water and our lunch. But what happened in my case I still brought my backpack with all essentials such as food, first aid kit, hydration system, raincoat and other important things during the climb and the backpack is a little bit heavy. I was not able to transfer my other stuff to my bigger backpack because my porter already left and will trek directly to Tumpis where we will spent our first night. Because of my situation, I had some difficulty to descend the trail to Tudaya Falls and ascend from it. But it helps me to condition my self for the continuation of the climb. After we reached Tudaya Falls, my exhaustion seems to be gone immediately because Tudaya Falls is wonderful and amazing falls. We took our lunch at the ground near the falls. We had a great time in that place.

Tudaya Falls (photos above with border are copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

Tudaya Falls

After we arrived at the top from Tudaya Falls, we waited for "Habal habal" as our transportation. "Habal habal" is a single motorcycle that will bring us back to Baruring. I already experienced riding a motorcycle, but the experienced I had for "Habal habal" was different this time and I knew that it was the same thing to the whole group. Imagine a single motorcycle that will able to ride four passengers including the driver. Well, one thing that I noticed, the motorcycle tires used seems to be intended for rough roads because the tires are bigger. The rides were both quite exciting and scary because there were part of roads that was incline and we were either going up or going down. One mistake of our driver will result of our own accident. But the great thing about it, the whole group rides the "Habal habal" and all were able to get back to Baruring safely.

Next, we rested for a while at Baruring and the proper climb had been started. We trek the first part of the trail from Baruring to Tumpis. Before we started the trek, rain already started. If there is a rain, that means we expected that the trail will be muddy and slippery. The trail from Baruring to Tumpis were still easy because we pass the farm land area. We saw different kinds of vegetables along the way. To be honest, I still appreciated the scenery that I saw, well green place is beautiful to me such as farm. From Baruring, the trek lasted from 3 to 4 hours. After we arrived at Tumpis, we pitched our tent and spent our first night at Tumpis. We never worried for water source since there is small housing community in that place.

viewable area of Mount Apo (peak covered by fog)

Day 2 - Thursday - Feb 26, 2009

a morning view that greets me before we start the second day trek

We woke up around 5AM, prepared ourselves and started the second day trek at past 6AM. The plan to accomplish that day is to reach Camp 1 and Camp 2 inside the Mount Apo. From Tumpis to Camp 1, it took us 4 to 5 hours, from Camp 1 to Camp 2, 1 hour. We had our lunch at Camp 2. After Camp 2, the Boulder wherein the climb will last within 4 hours.

Base of the Mountain (photos above copyrighted by Sir Vincent)

From Tumpis to Camp 1, we passed grassland area until we reached the base of Mount Apo. Then the ascent started. Few minutes ascending the Mount Apo, we found ourselves in a narrow pathway. At first I never used my gloves, but after the incident that I was wounded because of some thorns in the plants beside the trail, I forced to used it. Since it rained, the path had water and some path are muddy. I was never surprised anymore since its really raining in the mountain. And muddy trail is not astonishing anymore. We continue the journey in the mountain. Mount Apo does not have a well built strong groove to hike. This means that, the pathway is just simply the footprints of the earlier mountaineer. No stairs unlike in Mount Kinabalu wherein the trail had already built to be friendly trail. Mount Apo does not have that case. And since it rained the day before the trek and also rained during the climb, expected that the hike will be worst because the ground will be filthy and unsafe and because of that, I had been very careful. I remember that because of sloppy ground, I already expected that my shoes will be covered by water and mud. There were times, that even I do not want to glide, but I had to glide because its safer to glide and sometime because I have no choice. It was a relief that we had reached Camp 1. then we rested for 15 to 20 minutes, then we continue the exploration of the mountain until we reached Camp 2. The rain poured us while we were having our lunch. I thought we can rest there and probably build our tent, but the plan changed. The climb continued from Camp 2 to Boulder. After lunch, we continue the trek.

Inside the mountain (photos above copyrighted by Sir Vincent)

Boulder is the most difficult part of the mountain (aside from the muddy part trail). Boulder is rocky part that we need to pass. From Camp 2, we passed the dried river of the mountain, the river has lots of irregular rocks, which for me the start of the boulder challenge. Different kinds of skills to be able to pass small and big rocks. Sometimes, I have to cross one rock from another rock. Then, I have to walk to small pathway area to be able to continue the climb. This was just the river part. When, I found out that the river is not the boulder yet, there was part of me that thinking "if this is not the boulder part, then I must be expecting worst".

The river pathway had been ended but the boulder part start off. And we saw from there the sulfur pillars. Sulfur pillars is near at the trail that we are going to stroll. And the issue will be the smell of the sulfur, that is really stinky and will cause us to vomit or difficult to breath. That was the time, I took out my mask to help me to survive trekking the path near the sulfur pillars.

While climbing the boulder part, I realized to myself, how will I able to pass this rocky part of the mountain. There was a part of me that asking myself, "Will I survive on this mountain?" And then, I just saw my self struggling to climb the rocks. I thought at first that I will never able to pass the boulder, but the wall climb training that we had in the group and my gloves really helped me to be able to pass the boulder. Boulder part has more rocks, some rocks are bigger and taller than me and will question myself "How will I be able to climb this one?", then I have to be clever and think a way to do that. There was part of boulder wherein there was slant area, then, while climbing that part, I realized that I was near top, and I do not want to look down. I have to be really careful because the area of footprint is just enough for one step at a time and I moved myself in side way position because if not, I might fall. After passing this part, I was ecstatic because I made it to the end part of the boulder and I passed the boulder challenge.

end of dried river and boulder start off

Boulder Photos (photos with border are copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

After reaching the area before 87 Degree (87 Degree is the trail that the team will take to be able to reach Mount Apo Summit), the group built the camp and we spent our night there.
The night was so cold. And I cannot stay outside the tent during that time, my buddy and I spent most of the time inside the tent during that night. We just let ourselves out to have our dinner. Before I sleep, I had my complete gear for the cold condition of the mountain such as thermal wear, gloves, sleeping bag and socks. I did survive that night in the mountain.

Day 3 - Friday - Feb 27, 2009

The group planned to wake-up at 5AM so that we will be able to witness the sunrise at the Summit of Mount Apo. I woke-up before 5AM. Then I prepared myself. That time, it still a little bit dark and we started the trek with our headlamp. The group had a short walked from the camp to 87 degree. I saw 87 degree and the trail is a rock face. It was called 87 degree because of the measurement of the slope. Then, I started to climb the 87 degree. While climbing, I can hear the beat of my heart. I had mixed emotions, I felt scared, nervous, but determined to complete my climb. My pace was a little bit slower compared with other mountaineers in the group. I remember, there was a part of the 87 degree wherein I was almost at the top near in the crater lake of the mountain, I was trying to avoid to look down because I might feel something and I might fall. I tried to step forward many times but I was scared. Then, I told to myself, "you're almost there, why are you going to stop now ?". I looked around while I was struggling with myself. Then, I found the beautiful view of the ground, at that point I was inspired and told myself "you can do it". Then, I was able to step forward to that difficult part of 87 degree and I reached the end of it.

Pathway to 87 degree

87 degree - trail to Summit

Crater Lake

Crater Lake photos (photos with border are copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

View from 87 degree (this is another version of the view from the ground of Mount Apo)

(photos with border are copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

(photo above copyrighted by Sir Vincent)
this is the scenic view that made me inspire to continue to climb 87 degree

After reaching the end of the 87 degree, I saw the crater lake. I was amazed. For me the small crater lake was incredible, the water was so clear. At the middle of the crater lake, there was a pressure part because there are some bubbles on it. Well Mount Apo is known as one of the stratovolacano but the last eruption was unknown.

Then, after the crater lake, I continued the climb up to the summit wherein the trail was easier compared with 87 degree.

Finally, I reached the Summit of Mount Apo at past 6AM, most of my team when I reached it, were already taking their photos. Well I did the same thing, because it is a moment in our life, reaching the Summit of the Highest Mountain in the Philippines. It so cold at the top. When I reached the top, all I can see are clouds and white sky. We waited to have some clearing. And I saw the other peak of the mountain from the other side. I saw crater lake from the summit. We saw the rising sun which still covered by the clouds. We saw sea of clouds.

Sunrise covered by clouds at the Mount Apo Summit

It felt so great that I achieved another thing in my life, I was able to reach the summit of Mount Apo. I thought this was just a dream but it became a reality. We stayed at the summit for a few minutes but then we decided to descend because of the strong and cold wind.

If ascending in 87 degree was challenging, the same thing of descending it. All I was thinking is to be careful while doing it, because I want to go back alive. After less than an hour, we reached the ground. I was relieved and thankful that I made it, I passed 87 degree.

Some of the team went to the other peak, but some decided to go back to the camp and I am one of the person who went back to the camp. Next, we had our breakfast. Then, I prepared all my stuff for the next thing, which is to descend the mountain. Descending mountain started at around 9:30 AM.

Same experience I had while climbing the boulder part of the mountain. But this time, its more difficult because the wind direction is against us and I can smell the sulfur from the bottom part of the boulder. I can also feel the heat of the sulfur excretes from the ground. My pace was slower. And that time, I totally able to see the whole boulder part of the mountain which surprised me and even myself cannot believe that I was able to pass it. After reaching the end of the boulder I was thankful again. Because I did survived in boulder. The trek lasted almost 4 hours.

Sulfur Pillar

Sulfur Pillars

Boulder photos captured during descent

Then, we trekked the dried river again. Our trek was traditional and not a traverse. This means that, the trail we took to reached the summit was the same trail to reach the ground. After reaching the Camp 2, the thing that I deal with were muddy trail and slippery pathway. Another hour passed, I reached Camp 1. After Camp 1, next was Tumpis. The group spent our night again at Tumpis. I reached Tumpis at almost 6PM that day.

While on my way and probably at the half of the trail from Camp 1 to Tumpis, rain started. This adds up to the difficulty to go down to the ground. It was so muddy, my shoes took shower with the rain, dip into the mud, covered my whole feet. Then, I have to control myself not to drift away but there were situation that I cannot helped myself. I really have to skate into the mud. There are trails that I have to crawl because there were huge trees that fall into the trail. Sometimes, I have to depend on trees, on its trunks, or other parts of the plants that I can hold on for a while to have a safe slides. From Camp 1 to Tumpis, I took it almost 4 hours, unlike with my other co-mountaineers, they just let their selves go with the flow and do not matter anymore if how many times they will fall, glide, slide into the mud. I was thankful again because I reached Tumpis and I was safe.

When I reached Tumpis, I was really really tired. All my clothes that I was wearing while descending the mountain were wet. And I felt so cold. I know that from Tumpis to Baruring, the trail will be easier. But the problem was my feet. My toe nails were aching. And this was the reason why my pace from Camp 1 to Tumpis was so slow. After the whole team reached Tumpis and all were safe, the whole group were happy and enjoying. The group accomplished Mount Apo with safety. That night, most of the men in the group had fun, they celebrated and drink wine. The ambiance and the spirit that night was full of joy, joy of accomplishment. Each of us were proud to ourselves. I felt the same thing in my heart.

Day 4 - Saturday - Feb 28, 2009

We woke up around 6 AM and went down from Tumpis at 7AM. We arrived at Baruring at past 10 AM. From Baruring we saw Mount Apo, but this time the sky was clear and no clouds covering the peak of the mountain. We spent our time at Baruring for couple of picture taking. And all of us were excited to see Davao City and have some fun after completing our Mount Apo adventure.

Mount Apo from Baruring (at last we saw the peak due to clearing)

After reaching Baruring and after I saw Mount Apo from a far, I questioned myself like this "Did I really climbed that mountain? I can't believed that I did. I can't believed that the climb was over". During that time, I thought that all experiences that I had to climb that mountain were just a dream and not for real. Well, I think, Mount Apo climb is the most dangerous climb that I had so far. For me, the climb was harder than Mount Kinabalu. It is somewhat extreme for me. And I am glad that I was back on my feet and I was safe.

I was safe and I was able to write this experience here.

Mount Cristobal and the averse climb

2009-02-16T04:07:00.000-08:00

Mount Cristobal is one of the mountain that commonly climb by mountaineers. Every serious mountaineer in the Philippines climb this mountain and this will not be excluded in their list as one of the challenging mountain. You cannot called yourself as mountaineer if you have not climb Mount Cristobal (this is what I used to hear from other mountaineers in my group and what I used to read from internet from other mountaineers in my country).

After I confirmed that Mount Cristobal will be one of the mountain for our training climb before Mount Apo (the highest mountain in the Philippines), I was kind of hesitant because everything I heard about this mountain were not good, most of my team members in the mountaineering group where I belong told me their last experienced in this mountain was unpleasant.

Based from the last and worst thing I heard about this mountain, I become afraid to try to climb this one. But I realized that I have to face it if I wanted to climb Mount Apo.

The big day come and I told myself to focus on the beauty of the nature that I been wanting to see on this mountain.

Mount Cristobal is located at Dolores, Quezon Philippines. It is located near in Mount Banahaw (one of the famous mountain in the Philippines and used to climb by mountaineers too).

The group assembled at 4AM at 7/11 store in Buendia near in bus station where we will ride a bus that will carry us to San Pablo, Quezon.

While on our way to jump off site (from San Pablo to Dolores Quezon)

After we arrived in San Pablo around 6:45 AM, we rented a jeep that will drive us to Dolores, Quezon (to our jump off location) where we will start the climb.

We finally arrived in the jump off place. And we observed that it will rain soon because there are raindrops falling already.

jump off site

First part we passed the cemented trail with moss on it. To visualize it, you can imagine that if you walked on the cemented area with moss you will probably be very careful because the trail is slippery and one mistake leads to fall and accident. That was what I felt, because of that, I passed this trail with slow pace for safety. And I observed the other team member did the same thing what I did.

Mount Cristobal view from jump off area

side view of Mount Cristobal

view captured while starting to trek the trail to Mount Cristobal

Mount Cristobal trail

After an hour climb, our lead decided to stop and picked the place where we can build our camp to spend our night. We rested for an hour for building our tent and for our lunch. At 11 AM, we climb again. During the climb, my heart rate go faster and faster due to the fact that I am very near to the part of the mountain that will challenge myself physically and mentally. I set to myself the most difficult part of the climb in this mountain. I remember what I heard, there is a rocky part of the mountain that I will pass wherein I will walk on the roots and I need to hug the huge rock with plants on it with thorns. And if I will not do it, I will fall in the cliff. This is the description I stuck on my mind that I am hoping that I will be able to pass.

The climb goes on, I enjoyed the trail while trekking the mountain. It is covered by trees. One thing that I observed, the stairs are made of soil and roots. If roots gone, I am not sure if the stair trail will stay for long and I think no one will able to stand on it and able to reach the top of the mountain. I am very thankful to those big roots.

Inside the mountain

After more than an hour of climbing we are passing a trail wherein it so incapacious for walking because the side of it are cliff but the bottom of it are not viewable due to plants at the side is covering it. Then, I just found myself, walking to the limited space and holding the roots. Next are the big rocks that I have to hold tight because if I will not do it I may fall on the cliff. After passing that part, I heard that it was the rocks that I been thinking about except there are no thorns on it. I prepare my gloves for that rock, but I haven't used it because I never saw thorns on it. But one thing that I remembered, my heart rate was really fast and I took it slowly and my focus are on it. I said to myself, I should not take a chance to make mistake. I am very thankful for the roots that I able to hold and while writing this, I am wondering, how long does those roots will be able to stand on its strength if mountaineers used to get hold on it just to be able to pass that difficult trail part of that mountain.

Mount Cristobal was the 3rd mountain that I climbed (as real mountaineer). And this is the mountain that let me experienced the combination of simple walking on the trail up to climbing a rock (with moss most of the time) and I have to depend on the trees beside the trail because I may fall because of wet and slippery rocks. Then, we reached the place where they call it crater 1 (someone just mentioned to me that there is crater 2). After reaching the crater 1, the group stopped and talked for a while. The group decided to continue the climb up to the ridge or the summit of the mountain. One thing that the group was not sure, if there are other group who climb up to the summit that had created the trail, because if none, that means we have to create a trail to be able to reached the summit. But the good thing, the trail does still exist.

While ascending the mountain, I am thankful I bought a hat that protects me from towering grass. The trail is narrow and the grass leaves are slapping our face if we are not able to hold it. After we reached the summit of the mountain I can feel the blow of the wind and it was forceful (which expected because we are at the top of the mountain). At first, we cannot see the view below because of the clouds, but after clouds got cleared, we were able to see views that for me are awesome to glimpse.

View from the summit

In total experienced, I love Mount Cristobal, not because of the view I found at the top, but the different experience I had while climbing this mountain. I can say the climb was not easy for me, but I won against myself because I never let my fear win over me.

Views while in Mount Cristobal - at the camp site

Mount Kinabalu - A Wonderful Challenge

2009-01-04T04:04:00.000-08:00

I just like to share my first and formal experience of being mountaineer. I remember when I was in college, there was a mountaineering club in the university that I wanted to join in, but when I tried to talk to my college friends and classmates, they were not into it and not interested in hiking a mountain. Because of the situation, I thought I am the only one who likes it, because of that I never tried it out. Time passed, I graduated in college, now I am working and after six years, I met a good friend who is an active mountaineer.

He mentioned to me the plan that he and his group will be going to Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia on September 2008. After I heard it, I told him, "Can I join the hike?" And he said "Sure, but Mount Kinabalu has an altitude of more than 4000 meters above sea level. Do you think you can do it?" And I said, "I can try and I will prepare for it". That was the start for me to go for the things that I really wanted to do from the first place. Maybe before I was not pushed enough to go for what I like to do and now that I have a chance, I am grabbing my opportunity to do it.

Before this major climb, I reminisced my last climb during my last year in college. We hiked Mount Santo Tomas in Baguio and I knew in my heart that I enjoyed the hike. I remember that the trail we used to reach the peak of the mountain was pretty straight forward and there were not so much hurdles to hike the mountain. All I remembered and I cannot forget was before we were able to reach the peak, there were raindrops falling and the wind gets stronger that I almost think wind can blown us away. But I knew in myself that I like hiking and the experience was a good adventure for me.

Now I am going to tell my climb experiences in Mount Kinabalu and I am telling you, it is not been easy for me.

Mount Kinabalu is the 20th world famous mountain based on height and its beauty. Is it the highest mountain in South East AsiIt is located in Sabah, North Borneo Malaysia and the climb was held last Sept 21 to 24 2008.

Day 1 - September 21 (Saturday)

The schedule flight to Kota Kinabalu from Clark (or Macapagal) International Airport is 4:45 PM. The group met at 8AM in Jollibee at St. Francis Square near in SM Mega Mall in Pasig since the bus going to Clark Airport is stationed here. From there, we traveled from Pasig to Clark from 9AM to 11 AM. Since our flight will be later in the afternoon, we used our waiting time inside the mall and we had our lunch there. While looking around the mall, I remembered that I have to buy a raincoat. While looking for a raincoat I remembered that I forgot to bring my head lamp that I will be needed for night trek.

Around 2PM, we went back to the airport. While waiting in the line to enter at the airport entrance, I prepared my passport and e-ticket, to my surprise I printed a wrong e-ticket (this made me nervous). When its my turn to present my passport and e-ticket to the entrance officer, I told him that I printed the wrong e-ticket and I asked him, "where I can request to print my e-ticket?", the officer led me to the right direction. During this time, I thought I will not be able to travel and not able to go to Malaysia. I am glad that the office where I had my flight booking is open and they were able to print it. After I got my e-ticket, that's the only time I was relieved. My mountaineering group inside the airport is waiting for me and they are all smiling at me after they saw me (I felt that they also relieved that I had my e-ticket and I will be able to go with them with this challenging adventure).

While writing this blog I would like to note that two things I learned on that day. First, list down all the items that I have to bring on the climb and second counter check many times the backpack if all my stuff are already on it.

Clark or Macapagal International Airport

View from my window after I woke up from a nap during the travel
from Clark Pampanga to Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu from the plane

Kota Kinabalu International Airport

Around 3PM in the afternoon we were inside the waiting area of the airport. Around 4 PM, our plane arrived. Almost 5PM, plane took off and we landed in Kota Kinabalu at past 6PM.

After we arrived in Kota Kinabalu, the group discussed the lodging or hotel that we can sleep in for the night before the climb on Sunday morning. Lodge was not really a big issue because after we found a cab that will drive us to the city center of Kota Kinabalu, its fairly easy to find lodging for backpackers. After we found the lodging, the group just had dinner and all were setup to sleep for the next big day.

Day 2 - September 22 (Sunday)

We woke up at 5AM. The group prepared, then headed to the cab station that will drive us to the jump off area of Mount Kinabalu. We rented two taxi cab for the whole group and we started to travel at 7AM. While on our way to our destination, we had a chance to see the beauty of Kota ("Kota" means city) Kinabalu, we also stop in Mount Kinabalu lookout viewpoint where we experienced to see the beauty of the mountain from a far. All of us are amazed on what we saw. And I myself realized and asked myself, "Is this the mountain that I am going to climb? Can I really climb that mountain?" I cannot believe myself either and along the way, I am fighting and convincing myself that I can do it.

Mount Kinabalu from a far (photo copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

Mount Kinabalu View while we are on the road

Mount Kinabalu from lookout view point (photo copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

Mount Kinabalu peak from lookout view point (photo copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

Mount Kinabalu from lookout view point

Next, we pickup our three guides for our trek. Then, we drove to the jump off station. Before we start our climb proper, one of our guide made an orientation and explained the trail path that our group will take. Mount Kinabalu has two trail; Misilau and Timpohon trail. The group plan is to ascend the mountain by Misilau trail and descend it through Timpohon trail. During the orientation, our guide gave us our packed lunch which was part of our reservation paid in Laban Rata, a hotel near at the peak of the mountain where we are going to stay for the night before trekking the final trail to the summit of Mount Kinabalu.

Views while on our way to jump off area

Mount Kinabalu (photo copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

Entrance to Kinabalu Park (photo copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

Misilau Trail jump off site

Trails to Mount Kinabalu Peak

We started our climb at almost 11 AM. The journey had begin. While climbing the mountain, I had a lot of experiences. The great thing about it was seeing the beauty inside and outside the mountain. Mount Kinabalu is a protected mountain, and most of our trails were covered with towering trees that was why we were not bothered by the sun rays.

Some trail pictures (photos above copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

View while trekking the mountain (photo copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

Trail View (photo copyrighted by Susan Reyes)

During the trail, we experienced rain from some point of the mountain. And I cannot forget the part wherein its raining and the trail was some kind of muddy, then there were lots of irregular stairs that we need to take. At that point, I hated stairs (but I have to deal with the stairs whether I like it or not). During that time, wind was powerful and I felt the cold because my jacket was wet due to rain even I used my raincoat. After climbing of more than seven to eight hours, I had some difficulty to climb the mountain. But I know I can still climb. But I brought a lot of water which adds to the weight of my backpack. Our team lead in the climb, asked me. "Can you still carry your backpack?" And I said, "Its ok, I think I can", but what he did was asked one of the guide to get my backpack and port it from there to hotel. I did not object maybe because I am tired too. And I can see that its also the same thing felt of my group about me. Another three hours passed before we reached the hotel. To be honest, I am the last person to arrived the hotel. All of my group member were asking me if I was ok and I said to them that I was fine. For me that was both wonderful and difficult climb that I had.

some of the views to see while climbing the mountain

one of the view that we found while trekking the mountain

amazing views that we passed while on the small bridge

The hanging bridge

View from the hanging bridge
(photos above copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

Laban Rata hotel for what I know is located between 3200 to 3300 meter above sea level (masl). I never realized that I was able to climb more than 3000 masl. When I arrived at hotel, that was almost 10PM. And the next climb proper to the peak of the mountain will start around 2:30 AM (I am thinking, how many hours of rest before that time).

Laban Rata Hotel

Laban Rata Hotel - where we stayed before trekking the final summit of Mount Kinabalu

(photos above copyrighted by Jimmar Lagazo)

During the dinner, the group discussed that we were all surprised of long hours of trek and all of us chanted that was really tiring and difficult climb. I can see in my team, that all of us had a great deal with Mount Kinabalu. We were thirteen in the group and only three people decided to climb up to the peak of the mountain that night. I myself, decided not to force to go to the peak. I am really tired and I know I can if I had enough time to rest, but four hours was not enough for me to have another climb. After the dinner, the group went to the room then went to bed with a decision that most of us are not going to climb up to the summit.

Day 3 - September 23 (Monday)

Around 1:30 AM, I just felt the team lead of the group woke up and tried to ask the sleeping group, who will be the other to join him to go for the summit. And then, one by one were starting to moved around and woke up. And I heard them that they were decided to go. Out of 13, 10 decided to go. And I am not one of them. Then, there was a part of me telling me to try. I can go back to the hotel if I can't really make it.

The group that will go for final ascent left the hotel around 2:30 to 3AM in the morning. Then, I decided to follow, after that, when I got out I felt the cold wind in my body and in my face. And tried to follow the trail together with other two co-mountaineers in the group. Then, I brought my oxygen canister, because I know that air in the summit will be thinner and will be difficult for me to breathe. Then, I started to climb again, but few meters from the hotel, my oxygen canister fell and I had to look for it. Then, I become skeptical if I will go further or not. I think twice and got confused. After I saw my oxygen canister from the ground I tried to continue the climb, few minutes I felt difficulty in breathing and I realized that I have to stop. I have to stop trying and go with others. I thought that I am so much tired and I have more than 6 kilometers to descend (I need to reserved that energy). I went back to the hotel and on my way back, I told the couple mountaineers (they decided to go to the summit too) but when they saw me, they went back to the hotel with me and decided not to go further too.

At the room, there was a part of me that I wish I can go to the summit. But, I know my self limit. And be realistic that when I got outside, I felt that its hard to breathe. We slept few hours and woke up after hearing that the group arrived from the summit. 5 out of 10 (decided to go to the summit) were able to reached the summit. Some reached the other peak of the mountain. I congratulated all of them, because I know that at least some of the group were able to finish up to the summit of the mountain. We had our breakfast and started to descend the mountain.

Inside the mountain while descending it (there was fog)

Carson Falls in Timpohon trail

We were able to catch up the lunch (which serves as our lunch/dinner) that day. And then rest for a while before going back to the city. Our guides gave us our climb certificate. My certificate indicated that I was completed the 3500 masl climb and for me that was really awesome. I know that Mount Kinabalu highest peak is 4095 masl. I am still proud of myself that I able to climb a mountain with that altitude. For me it was an achievement.

Mount Kinabalu is a beautiful mountain for me. It has a very very friendly trail especially the Timpohon trail. While we were on our way descending the mountain, we saw a lot of tourist taking that trail to climb the mountain. Unlike Misilau trail, we just saw two which tried to descend the mountain.

Mount Kinabalu has amazing peak and the shape of the peak is really fantastic. One of the mountaineers in our group able to capture lots of pictures at the summit after reaching it. And after I saw them, the view were really panoramic. How I wish I was able to reach the summit too. But I can try to climb the mountain again next time if there will be another opportunity.

For a beginner like me my team recognized and told me that I was pretty good during the climb.

Because of all experiences I had in this mountain, I will never forget "Mount Kinabalu".

Remembering Banff - Part 2

2009-01-02T20:49:00.000-08:00

If you read my second blog about Banff, now I am going to cite the story about my third and last day tour in Banff. I had been so excited for the past two days of my tour in Banff, but the excitement that I have still not perished in my last day tour. The main reason why I am still excited, I am going to Columbia Icefields in Jasper.

Ice and snow are the things that are not familiar to me because I am living in a tropical country. And I have been dreaming to experience snow or walk in ice.

Before we went to Columbia Icefields, there were other interesting places we visit. While traveling along Icefield Parkway (or Highway 93) - a highway road that you can see both Banff and Jasper National Park, I am stunned because of the rocky mountains in each side of the road. Because of the scenic view I saw, I became a rocky mountain lover. While inside the tourist bus, I took a lot of pictures of rocky mountains and I can say that I shot my digital camera to all mountains that my eyes can see. I cannot stop myself to admire those rocky mountains.

rocky mountains from Icefield Parkway

While on the road, we saw Crowfoot Glacier and I had been lucky because I captured a picture of it while inside the bus. Then, we stop over in Jimmy's place. Before, I thought that was the real name of the lodge until I found out that it is the famous Num-Ti-Jah Lodge. in Icedfield Parkway. The lodge was founded by Jimmy Simpson and it is located near in beautiful Bow Lake where you can see both Bow Glacier and Crowfoot Mountain. We had our hot chocolate inside the Num-Ti-Jah lodge and because of it we had a chance to view some of the arts and crafts created by Jimmy Simpson. We were also informed that the lodge was built by Jimmy with his own bare hands (based on history - he has no knowledge about building house and architecture) and that was really amazing. I also found out that the lodge will be probably become part of Canadian National Historic Site.

Crowfoot Glacier

Icy Bow Lake

Crowfoot Mountain

Bow Glacier

One of the rocky mountain

Num-Ti-Jah Lodge

Inside the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge

After Num-Ti-Jah lodge, we traveled again. We stop at the side of the road and after I got myself out in the bus I was surprised because of panoramic view of Mount Chepren and Waterfowl Lake. Mount Chepren has its own distinct shapes compared to other rocky mountains and the Waterfowl Lake adds beauty to the mountain. Waterfowl lake is amazing too, I saw most part of it as icy water (same like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake).

Mount Chepren and Waterfowl Lake from Icefield Parkway

Waterfowl Lake (with rocky mountains)

The next place we stop was where we had our lunch - the place was near in Saskatchewan River Crossing. We had our table where we were freely enjoyed the great view of North Saskatchewan River. I am wondering why it was called Saskatchewan River Crossing and I just found out from our guide that this great Canadian Heritage River is crossing other river such as Howse River and Mistaya River (but I never got a chance to see the other two rivers). While writing this blog, I remembered North Saskatchewan River is also the same river that I had chance to cruise in Edmonton (what a great surprise!!!).

North Saskatchewan River

After lunch we went back to the bus and started to travel again. And the moment I have been waiting for had arrived, we were in Columbia Icefields Centre. After the bus came into halt, I picked my winter jacket, my gloves and my bonnet hat, then I went outside the bus and of course I looked around and I took pictures as much as I can. We waited for our tourist guide to park our minibus. Then, he led us to the bus driver that will send us to the area where we can transfer and ride an ice explorer. Ice explorer is big wheel vehicle that was made for ice exploration at the top of the glacier. When I saw the ice explorer or the snow coach vehicle, I am suprised because it is so huge, I remember that the wheel is almost the same of my height. And another surprise is that the vehicle can carry a lot of people. After I got myself onboard in the ice explorer, I got my digital cam on and I both took videos and pictures while on our way to the top of Athabasca Glacier. Ice exploration was one of the great memories I had in Jasper and Banff National Park. I am not fully aware how is the feeling while walking at the top of the glacier. Speaking of Athabasca Glacier, I have information that this is the friendliest glacier that people can take to be able to go to the Columbia Icefield. Some glaciers are meant for the adventure extremist but Athabasca Glacier are meant for all type of people. Few minutes passed, we arrived in the top of Athabasca Glacier. The feeling was so great after I got out the ice explorer. There are lots of people at the top of the glacier . I saw different kind of people such as children, young, adult and old ones, all were enjoying the scenery. And my dream came into reality, I was able to walk in the ice that really thrilled me. And I am so glad because of the thought that I was near in the middle of the Columbia Icefields through Althasbasca Glacier. Walking in the icefields was exciting, fun and scary but I had a great time. Some people got fall in the icefields ground because some part of it is slippery due to solid ice, but even that was the case, people were all enjoying. I chose the part of the icefields with snow, then I tried to picked some snow and I made snow ball. After I did that I felt that my hands got numb (because of it, now I understand the feeling in a cold place like glacier). The experience was worthy and I enjoyed Columbia Icefields ice exploration.

Athabasca Glacier in Columbia Icefield

ice explorer or snow coach

Views in the glacier icefield

old snow mobile

North Saskatchewan River - Edmonton (Part 5)

2008-12-16T00:45:00.000-08:00

I booked an Edmonton Queen Riverboat cruise. My main reason for doing it was to experience North Saskatchewan river. From the time I arrived in Edmonton, I was fascinated already by this river.

I took a cab from Legislature Building to Edmonton Queen Riverboat center at 98Th avenue. I gave my reservation booking to one of the crew and they gave me my entrance and dinner ticket. But on my way to the rafters landing area where I am going to ride the boat, I lost my ticket somewhere. So, I have to go back and look for my ticket or else, I will not be admitted to the entrance and I will not have my dinner (this situation made me felt bad). I went back to the center where I get my ticket. On my way, to the center, other tourist that coming approached me and asked if I lost my ticket, and I told them that I was. After saying that, they showed my ticket and gave it to me. Then, I felt lucky and thanked them. Next, I went back to the boat and showed my ticket. I was relieved when I got myself inside the boat.

I walked to the front deck of the boat and approached one of the table then grab a chair for me. Then, I saw a couple sitting to the table next to mine. Then, I stood up and approached the couple and asked them if they mind if I can join them in their table. I told them I was alone and I added that it was better to give my table to the other group of people. They agreed and I joined them in their table.

Shaw Conference Centre (with flags)
and Canada Place (pink building)
from Queen Riverboat at North Saskatchewan River

Fairmont Hotel MacDonald (Castle like building) and
TELUS (former highest building in Edmonton)
from Queen Riverboat at North Saskatchewan River

Downtown Skyline from Queen Riverboat at North Saskatchewan River

The couple started a conversation with me. They introduce their selves and I did the same thing. Right now, I cannot remember their name. I was informed that the reason why they were cruising and having dinner in Edmonton Queen Riverboat was to celebrate their 10Th anniversary. For me that was really wonderful. And the idea of dating or cruising in a river is kind of a sweet thing. Then I told them where I came from, why I was in Edmonton and until when I am staying in the city. I had a great time with them. They were very friendly. And when the boat crew announced that we can go inside the boat for our dinner, we went down and shared the dinner table. I never felt alone in my cruise in Edmonton Queen Riverboat since I was accompanied by the couple I met.

After dinner, that was the only time the cruise started. I requested a permission to the couple to leave the table to enjoy the scenery outside. I told them that I have to take my chances to take pictures of the river. While cruising the river, I were able to view the downtown skyline. Even though I used to the see downtown, what I saw from the river still amazed me. I loved what I saw. And I loved to feel the air in the river which was quite cold.

Different photos with North Saskatchewan River

Another angle for Downtown skyline

Downtown skyline

Mixed photos of Downtown
from Queen Riverboat at North Saskatchewan River

The sail started from the Rafter's landing area then cruised before the high level bridge. Then, the boat turned around and sailed up to area before Dawson Bridge. The cruise was enjoyable and I had a great night.

Wonderful North Saskatchewan River

Before leaving the boat, I approached the couple and thanked them again for letting me joined them to celebrate their anniversary. Next, the couple asked me how I will be able to get home and I told them that I am going to take a cab since I am not sure which bus will take me to downtown and if there were still bus around that time. To my surprise, the couple offered me that they will drive me home. And I cannot reject their offer that was why I accepted it. Before they dropped me home, they drove me around around downtown and nearby places so that I can see more about Edmonton. We even stopped at Starbucks and they bought me an iced coffee that was really thoughtful of both of them. I really enjoyed their company, they were so kind to me to think they just met me.

Edmonton Queen River Boat

I really enjoyed my Sunday.