Manila Ocean Park: Your All Season Holiday Destination

It's been quite a while that my only destination has just been office-house and house-office. This is not doing me any good. I have to go to other place despite the interchanging of super hot - super wet weather that Philippines is experiencing. The extreme hot weather condition and/or the strong rains really makes me lazy to plan on an out of town trip. So, I am looking for a spot inside the Metro and here's where Google takes place.

After searching on the net and several Tabs of Google Chrome, I finally picked the spot for my Metro Manila getaway and I chose The Manila Ocean Park.

How to get there?
Manila Ocean Park is facing the Quirino Grand Stand and behind the park will be Manila Bay. Having said that, this is one of those places which requires a taxi/cab to be able to reach if you are not a fan of walking. But for those whose having a long walk is not a problem, here's my suggestion: You can take an LRT 1 going to Taft. You may drop off at United Nations station since this is the nearest station to Manila Ocean Park. From UN station, walk towards TM Kalaw going to Manila Bay. You'll know you're in the right route if you passed by the National Library, the huge Lapu Lapu statue and Rizal Park. Facing Rizal Park is the Quirino Grandstand. Walk towards it. Behind it is where Manila Ocean Park. The key here is to ask people there for directions since this is a long walk.

Manila Ocean Park is the first Oceanarium in the country and it is the largest aquarium facility with a floor area of 8,000 sq. ft.. It is a marine life themed park in which visitors will witness a large varieties of marine creatures like fishes, sharks, rays, etc. The park is proud of its 25-meter long underwater tunnel full of creatures mentioned earlier. Aside from this, the place is very educational. Children and children-alike will surely learn and enjoy during a stay in this place.

The Manila Ocean Park has lots of attractions to offer to its visitors. There are customized packages to choose from to save time on picking which place to try and also to save money. I recommend to get packages instead of buying tickets individually.

Below are some of the list of attractions and packages that Manila Ocean Park offers:

There's more to this (Photo from MOP's website)

The package we took is worth 700 PhP which includes: Oceanarium, Trails to Antarctica, Jellies Exhibit, Fish Spa, Marine Life Show, and the Musical Fountain Show. It was half a day adventure and in which our time management skills were put into test. Haha... Ok! Lets have a tour inside the Manila Ocean Park!

Note: The following photos were taken using camera phone #sigh 

The Marine Life Show (Reg Price 150PhP)

These sea lions are adorable

Located next to the ticket counters, our adventure starts with the Marine Life Show where 2 sea lions are the main attraction along with their trainers. Everyone watching the show really adore watching these two sea lions as they dance, act and speak (dont take this literally). They know how to make people smile with their simple gestures and tricks. It was fun to watch and if I had a chance, I would like to volunteer to have an up-close and personal interaction with them in the stage.

Oceanarium (Reg Price 400PhP)

Next off is the Oceanarium. I believe it occupies the largest portion of Manila Ocean Park as this holds the largest marine aquarium in country. It is divided into 5 sections, namely: the Agos, the Bahura, the Laot, the Buhay na Karagatan, and the Ang Kalaliman. Five sections with 5 different environment.

Agos is rain forest themed with tanks of freshwater fishes like Giant Arapaima, Alligator Gar, Arowanas, Giant Gourami, Catfishes and more. The area is not air-conditioned but because of the hanging vines and the trees and plants around it, it made the place cooler.

Bahura showcases different colorful and unique types of fishes. This place is very fascinating because you've got to see in person fishes with different characteristics. For example is the tank where Reef Stonefishes are contained. They are labeled like that because of their abilities to hide/camouflaged as a rock. We also got to see Nemo's family which are the clown fishes in this area.

Laot also known as the fishing ground. Characterized by huge tanks, Laot is filled with large fishes like Largetooth Sawfish, Two-spot Red Snapper, and Giant Tuna.

Moment at the "Laot" 

Buhay na Karagatan is what I considered to be the highlight of the Oceanarium. It is a 25-meter long underwater walk way tunnel full of different types of fishes including sting rays and sharks. We also got to witness how they feed them by having one of their staff dive into the aquarium full of big creatures to feed and interact with them. This is the most crowded part of the section and I understands why.

This is not Hongkong Ocean Park :]

Ang Kalaliman is the last stop of Oceanarium. It holds creatures living in the deepest part of the sea.This where people got to clearly see how sharks behave when they're down there.

Fish Spa (Reg Price 120PhP)

My "Happy" feet

This is my favorite Manila Ocean Park experience (Well, my girlfriend couldn't say the same. Lol). It is a foot spa with a twist. One will need to dip his/her feet into a water full of small fishes. After a matter of seconds, fishes will start kissing your toes. It was tickling at first but as it come along, it became manageable (still not applicable on my girlfriend). The spa lasts for 10 minutes.

Trails to Antarctica (Reg Price 300PhP)

This section brings visitors to the coldest part area of the Earth. It is a walk through exhibit to learn more about the frozen continent. Trails to Antarctica is divided into 3 parts. It has the Slide O'Fun, Penguin Exhibit and Snow Village. We didn't try the ice slide called Slide O'Fun but we've got to see the penguins at Penguin Exhibit. We have also experience to feed these "Happy Feet" which costs us extra 500 peso because the feeding activity is not included in the package. It is an inclusive of photo op with the penguins and a take home CD of our photos. 

Feeding Time!

Snow village is a small room with a very low temperature which makes you feels like you're actually in Antarctica and it has a winter Christmas theme. Jackets will be distributed before entering the said room. Just be careful inside because the floor is slippery ice. It got me sliding several times.

Jellies Exhibit (Reg Price 150PhP)

Their like glowing in the dark! (Photo from MOP's website)

This area is filled with tanks full of different species of jelly fish. It is dark inside and the only light you'll see are the one that is lighting the tanks. Tanks lighting are changing and it feels like those jellies we're glowing. It was very relaxing watching them like their dancing. I never thought I would be hook into this creature of the sea. 

Musical Fountain Show (Reg Price 300 PhP)

Very entertaining (Photo from MOP's website)

As to end our Manila Ocean Park experience that day, we watched the Musical Fountain Show. It is an animated water fountain entertainment, a laser light with music choreography, and a live performance combined into one show!

At the end of this adventure... me and my girlfriend were both tired and happy. It was indeed a great tour. Also, an educating one. What I mentioned above are just some of the attractions that can be experienced at Manila Ocean Park (I missed 1 adventure, the Aquanaut but there will always be a next time). Come and visit them at Manila Ocean Park, Luneta, Manila (behind Quirino Grandstand).

Dry Encounter (Reg Price 300 PhP)

By the way, I also avail their Dry Encounter experience wherein I've got to see and touch a rays. It was also educational because facilitators tried to explain to me the different types of rays they have and how to identify them. At the end of this experience. 1 printed copy of my photo during my Dry Encounter was given.

Breakdown of Expenses: 

Ultimate Adventure Package - 700 PhP x 2 = 1,400 PhP

• Attractions: Oceanarium, Trails to Antarctica, Jellies Exhibit, Fish Spa, Marine Life Show, and the Musical Fountain Show

Dry Encounter - 300 PhP

Penguin Feeding - 500 PhP

Transportation - **.**

Food - **.**

Isdaan Floating Restaurant of Calauan, Laguna

A place that took the definition of restaurant to a whole new level. A floating restaurant that take customers into a different world. That's how I define Isdaan Floating Restaurant of Calauan, Laguna. Though Isdaan Floating Restaurant is a Thailand inspired place, with all those larger than life statues of Buddhas, little monks and mermaids, they still managed to incorporate a touch of Filipino culture through their food. Yup, they serve appetizing Filipino food here. By the way, another site of Isdaan is located in the northern part of Luzon - Gerona, Tarlac. They have the same vibe so it will be just a matter of how close you are on these two sites in terms of deciding on which branch you're going to pick and visit.

How to get there?
Take a bus located at Buendia LRT Station with a signage of "Sta. Cruz", Laguna. It is approximately 2-hour drive away from Manila.Going to Isdaan is easy. The place is just along the highway and it's hard to miss because of the towering statues of Mermaid Buddhas located in the entrance/parking area of Isdaan Floating Restaurant.. But just to be sure, inform the bus conductor to drop you at Isdaan. Fare is 85 pesos.

Entrance to Isdaan Floating Restaurant

Yup, this is their parking area

Isdaan is owned and operated by the Barrio Fiesta group of restaurants. Therefore, never doubt the taste of the food being served here. And so I decided that this blog entry will be more on the side of travelling rather than a food blog...

As we reach Isdaan Floating Restaurant, my initial reaction was astounded. I can't help myself as my eyes went wide because of amusement on the beauty of this restaurant. I have already saw this place in the internet and photos but still, I was blown away of its architectural design as well as how artistic this place was built and constructed. Kudos to the owner!

We're still in the Philippines :]

Actually, me and my girlfriend felt like we were foreign tourists in land of Thailand during our stay in Isdaan. Mermaid Buddhas were everywhere in Isdaan and they're more than life-sized statues. In addition to this are the bamboo pathways and cottages which adds flavor and makes Isdaan more to be like ancient Thailand.

This place is remarkable

Happy couple! Cheers!

We were then directed to our cottage. We've given a small but cute nipa hut that can accommodate up to 4 persons but since we were only 2 on this trip it was more than enough for us. Then the waiter hand over us their menu... a long list of menu. It was as long as 3 sheets of long bond paper and it is written back to back containing their list of foods. We had a hard time picking what food to eat because there were a bunch to choose from. I also noticed that their target clients are family and groupies because their servings come in bundles or in kilos.

Heading to our cottage... It looks like the one in the background

Sinigang na Hipon and Iced tea with Gumamela flower on the side

We ordered 1 kilo of Sinigang na Hipon (Sugpo, actually), 1/2 kilo of Inihaw na Tilapia, 1 kaldero of kanin (good for 2-3 persons), and 1 pitcher of iced tea. Imagine how full we are after we ate all of it. *laugh

They serve the rice here along with the "kaldero"

After that blockbuster lunch, we started to explore the whole vicinity of Isdaan Floating Restaurant. It is pretty big and has a total land area of 56.6 square kilometers. We were blessed because it was a shady afternoon when we visited Isdaan. The weather is just fine for taking photos, not too sunny neither dark.

Very detailed...

One of the highlight of this place is the entrance as you come inside the place. You will be walking in between tall statues. This give visitors a feel like they're not in the Philippines anymore. Under your feet is a pond because you are also walking above a bamboo trail since this is a floating restaurant. The whole place is a large fish pond. One can do fishing in which they can ask the staff of Isdaan to cook their catches.

It is still expanding so we can expect more on this place in the following years

Aside from the very South East Asian vibe of the place, it has an impressive Fiesta atmosphere which is very Filipino in a sense. There are bands that serenade each nipa hut, performers and actors that performs acrobatic stunts and other extra ordinary talents. It is a happy place. Everyone will definitely have a good time when they visit Isdaan Floating Restaurant.

Bring the whole family...

... Also the one you love.

Isdaan didn't forget the interest of the kids. Bikes and trolleys for children are available which can be rented. They also installed statues of cartoon characters, animals and other personalities that will surely loved by kids and kids alike (like me and my girlfriend). These include angry birds, Batman, Pres. Barack and a lot more.

Wazzup Kiddo?!

Slave by your love Baby ko! Lol 

Aside from the photo above, simply refer on the photos below to see how playful and crazy we are in this trip. We're like children in this themed park/restaurant.

May this love be blessed... 

Evolution of man.. 

What are you looking at bro?

I'm happy when she's happy (but I envy that lil monk!)

Just having a good time!

Just like the water... I wish time freezes when I'm with her (baduy ko na!)

Cheated by your boyfriend/girlfriend? Have you been a victim of rubbery? Stressed out with your bosses? Discovered a dark secret? Been fooled by a scam? If your answer is yes then there is a place for you in Isdaan that can lessen your anger and stress. There's a famous wall in Isdaan that is called Tacsiyapo. It is an open area and at the end point lies a wall with written words. Words that refer to someone we found annoying in one's life. The key here is to buy a ceramic cup, plates, wall clocks and even a working television at the station then throw or smash them into the wall while targeting the words you are angry with. An ideal place for people who are walking timebombs. Time to release all those pains and anger! Price of items that you can throw into the wall ranges from 20 pesos (cups) up to 2,000 pesos (television).

Target Locked!

I want to throw that television that day. Too bad I don't have enough money!

There are also gigantic Buddhas and a gorilla in this area. This is a place where people will be amazed how great Filipinos are in creating this kind of sculptures. Even I, I couldn't imagine that there is an existing place like this and can be found in Laguna. This is one spot that people should not miss when visiting Laguna. It will not only satisfy your tummy with their food but also your eyes with all those larger than life statues.

I think this is the biggest display in Isdaan...

People behind the beautification of Isdaan

Breakdown of Expenses:
Bus (Pasay Terminal - Isdaan Floating Restaurant) - 85.00 PhP
Bus (Isdaan Floating Restaurant - Magallanes | Mantrade) - 107.00 PhP
Sinigang na Hipon (1 kilo) - 483.00 PhP
Inihaw na Tilapia (1/2 kilo) - 176.00 PhP
Bagong Saing (rice) - 110.00 PhP
Pitcher of Iced Tea - 204.00 PhP

Republic Wake Park: Wakeboarding in Nuvali, Laguna

Finally! I got to see and experienced wakeboarding at Republic Wake Park in Nuvali. It's been two months since I first heard this thrilling sport is happening in Nuvali and since then I've been wanting to try it myself. Good thing that my rest day from work was matched with my friends' rest days also. So there's no stopping for this trip to happen.

How to get there?
Nuvali is just a 2-hour drive from Manila. You can take South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and turn right as you reach Sta. Rosa Exit. Turn right again after the toll gate and just follow the main road.You'll know your're in the right direction if you passed by Paseo de Sta. Rosa (found in the left side of the road). Just a few kilometers away, you'll see a big sign of Nuvali and Solenad. This is the time you'll turn left (from the traffic light). Just go straight ahead until you see a guardhouse which is half kilometers away from Solenad. Just tell the guard that you are going to the Wake Park and they'll give you an instruction on how to get there. It's easy but you have to listen carefully. Tada! Welcome to Republic Wake Park!

Be attentive on this sign... we almost missed it (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

By the way, food and drinks of your own are not allowed to bring-in at the Wake Park. So don't plan on packing your own food. They serve food inside. An open view restaurant is available so you don't have to worry in case you're hungry. Going back... as you reach the Wake Park, go directly to the information area to have your registration. You'll need to fill up a sheet with your information and in the same sheet you'll also see the rates:

Cable Rate 
1 hour pass – P250
2 hour pass – P475
4 hour pass – P595
8 hour pass – P995
Day & Night pass – P1,500
Night riding pass – P595
Private cable rent – P800/hour
VIP pass – FREE!

Unlimited riding package
1 week unlimited – P5,000
1 month unlimited – P15,000
3 months unlimited – P24,000
6 months unlimited – P35, 000
1 year unlimited (cash) – P55,000
1 year unlimited (monthly) – P60,000

Aside from the ratings above, we have also deposited 800 pesos each (Wristband – P200 plus Life vest & helmet – P600). This deposit is refundable. It was returned to us after we had brought back the gears at the counter (beside the registration area) at the end of our play. This deposit will become a fee in case the user damage or didn't return the gears.

feel free to choose your board (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

After gearing up, we proceed in the activity. The activity area has two parts, one is for the Pro wakeboarders (the course has ramps and obstacles) and the other one is for beginners (a plain course). Of course, we belong in the beginners area. There is also a deck near the activity area where people can put their belongings as you play.

I dream myself, wakeboarding here... The Pro area (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

Area for beginners (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

Viewing deck in the activity area (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

I suggest to arrive in the area as early as you could to maximize your time unlike us who came late in the vicinity. We only got to try gliding twice due to the long wait since there were so many people who wanted to experience this sport as well.

Photo op while waiting for our turn (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

We're almost there... still waiting (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

Before you do your turn, there is an instructor to teach you the basic and also the right positioning on riding the board. Listen to him because he knows what he is saying (which i didn't do). For non swimmers, you should also inform the instructor that you cannot swim so they will be more attentive once you get in to the water (which Aizel didn't do).

Byron listens and I don't... I have my own world. Naaaa! (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

The park opens at 8:30am and closes at 9:00pm, Monday to Sunday. However, beginners area is only open until 5:30pm. Tip: If you're going in big group, Wake park offers a private cable rental. This is a full exclusive use of the wakeboard area which costs 8,000 pesos and can accommodate a maximum of 30 people.

Aizel in her full wakeboarding gear (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

Baron, author of Baron the Explorer (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

and of course, me :] (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)

In the end, I didn't made a stand in the board which makes me a loser. Hahaha. It was tougher than surfing and I didn't anticipate that one. Nevertheless, it was a fun adventure and a good alternative destination. A must try for thrill seekers and adventurous type of person. That was definitely not my last time. I'll visit the place time after time until I start wakeboarding at the Pro area. Now, that's a promise!

Contact Information:
Republ1c Wakepark - West Diversity Boulevard, Nuvali, 4027 Calamba, Laguna
Email: info@republ1cwakepark.com

A shop for wakeboarding apparels is also available in Republic Wake Park (Photo from Baron Cantonjos)