Sunset in Liw-Liwa, San Felipe, Zambales (May 2016)
It has been a tradition for us, my college buddies from Pangasinan, to meet from time to time despite our work schedules. We see to it that at least one or twice a year, mostly during summertime, to go some place we've never been to. Since we're on a tight budget, we're on search of a beach where we can have a sweet escape from the city. Let's go to The Cicle Hostel, Zambales, which I heard from my friend, Kyra, who've been here weeks ago.
How to get here?
From Manila, you have two options: (1) Take a Victory Liner Bus bound to Iba, Zambales and tell the driver to drop you off to San Felipe. From there, you can take a tricycle and tell the driver to take you to The Circle.
Where to Stay?
It is best to book your accommodation here ahead of time especially on weekends that The Circle is fully booked. In our case, they referred us to the nearby resort so that we can have a place to stay overnight plus we can still chill at The Circle for free. There are no sari-sari stores and only a few cottages available by the beach, so you better bring your tents with you and pitch here for free. Don't forget your beach essentials (sun protection, snacks, and drinks) before heading to the beach to maximize your time at the beach.
Playing with waves.
Lovers in Liw-Liwa.
No filters needed.
The beach in Liw-Liwa had been an apple of the eye for surfers, but it is also perfect for beach goers who would want to just lay down at its fine gray sand. You can chase the waves with your friends, watch the sunrise and sunset, set up a bonfire, and appreciate every little you see around you.
My First Zoo Experience
Early morning, I and my friends took a quick dip into the beach to chase the sunrise. After feeding our hungry tummies, we then packed up and immediately asked a tricycle to bring us back to the town proper. From San Felipe, we took a bus going to SM Olongapo. We took a walk going to VCDA gate and rode a mega taxi going to Zoobic Safari (P100.00/head). The UV Express can accommodate at least four passengers and be minded to have the driver's contact number because he will also be the one to pick you up after the tour since there are no other means of transportation here. Among all of us, I'm the only one who haven't been in a zoo for my 27 years of existence, beat that? For P600.00 (day tour), we have the chance to meet the animals up close. This guided tour may took up to 3 hours to go through the 11 attractions walk thru and by riding the Tram. This may be a fun family bonding especially before the kids go back to school plus the fact that its just a few hours from Manila.
Feels of a grade school?
Croco Loco
Tram Ride
Zoobic Cave
Tiger Safari
Essentials:
- Sun protection (sunblock, cap, sunglasses, malong)
- Toiletries
- Tent/Sleeping Bag (optional)
- Camera/Powerbank
Expenses:
- Cubao to San Felipe = P295.00 (First Trip via San Fernando 5:00 a.m.; via SCTEX 3:20 a.m.)
- San Felipe Town to The Circle (back and forth) = P50.00
- San Felipe Town to SM Olonggapo = P20.00
- VCDA Gate to Zoobic Safari (back and forth) = P200.00/head
- Olonggapo Victory Terminal to Manila - P207.00