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Tacloban Muli Nating Bisitahin

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Tacloban City Trisikads In The Philippines
The Trisikad is a versatile Philippine Motorbike Taxi. A fun an inexpensive way to travel in the Philippines.

Tacloban: Muli Nating Bisitahin (Tacloban: A Revisit)

Ang Tacloban ay isang mataas na urbanisadong lungsod at ang pinakamalaking siyudad sa Eastern Visayas. Ito ay tahanan ng tinatayang 242,089 na tao at itinuturing na sentro ng rehiyon.  Ayon sa Asian Institute of Management Policy Center noong 2010, ang Tacloban ay pang lima sa pinaka competitive na siyudad sa buong Pilipinas, at noong 2020 DTI Ranking ng mga Highly Urbanized Cities, pang anim ang Tacloban sa mga itinalang mas umunlad na lungsod sa buong Pilipinas. 

Kahit pa man nakaranas ng delubyo dulot ng napakalakas na bagyong Yolanda noong 2013 ang Tacloban, kung saan maraming buhay ang nawala at nasira ang halos lahat ng tahanan, gusali at mga makasaysayang istruktura sa lugar, naging malaki ang pagbabago ng siyudad pagkatapos ng napakalakas na bagyo. Ang lungsod ay muling bumangon, maraming mga bagong establisyemento kagaya ng mga hotel, restaurants at malls ang itinayo, naayos at mas pinaganda ang mga makasaysayang istruktura at pasyalan sa lugar, at ang mga tao naman ay naging mas matatag. 

Table of contents

Tacloban City FAQ questions

Has Tacloban City fully recovered from the typhoon damage?

Yes, the city is now fully functional with new businesses everywhere.

Paano Makakarating sa Tacloban?

(How to go to Tacloban)

Thru the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport

Ito ang pangunahin at mabilis na paraan upang makarating ng Tacloban mula Manila at Cebu.  Meron din naman direktang flight mula sa iba pang airport sa bansa kagaya ng mula sa Angeles City at Iloilo City.  Maari ding makapunta ng Tacloban mula sa iba pang airport na malapit dito kagaya ng sa Calbayog City at Catarman.  

Thru Bus

May mga bus kagaya ng DLTB at Philtranco ang mayroong araw-araw na biyahe galing Manila papuntang Tacloban. Maaaring bumili ng ticket sa bus terminal ng Cubao o Pasay sa Manila  o di naman kaya ay bumili ng ticket online.  Tinatayang mahigit 24 oras ang biyahe sa pamamagitan ng bus, kaya naman maghanda para sa mahabang biyaheng ito.

Exploring Ormoc City is fun and easy on Motorized Tricycles in the Philippines

Mode of Transportation within Tacloban City

(Insert picture of mode of transportation in Tacloban City)

            Ang mga pribadong sasakyan ay maaring makapasok sa pangunahing kalsada at mga kalye sa siyudad.  Ang mga pampublikong sasakyan naman gaya ng jeepney, multicab, at bus na mula sa karatig bayan o munisipyo ay hanggang sa mga pangunahing kalsada lamang. Upang mapuntahan ang mga kalye sa loob ng siyudad, mayroong mga traysikel na pweding masakyan sa halagang 10-50 pesos na pamasahe.  Noong 2018, pinalawak sa Tacloban ang GrabTaxi service na isang online transport booking service, ngunit dahil sa mas pabor parin ang mga lokal sa nakasanayang transportasyon sa siyudad, ang mga taxi dito ay hindi pa karamihan sa ngayon.  

Kung ito ay ang una mong pagbisita sa Tacloban at gusto mong mamasyal at maglibot sa siyudad, mas makikilala mo ang lugar, mga tao at kultura dito kung ikaw ay maglalakad sa siyudad, o pwede rin namang gumamit o mag arkila ng pribadong sasakyan.

Makasaysayang Lugar at Mga Pasyalan sa Tacloban 

(Historical Landmarks and Places to go to in Tacloban)

San Juanico Bridge

            Ang pamosong Tulay ng San Juanico ay ang pinakamahabang tulay sa Pilipinas na nagkokonekta sa isla ng Leyte at Samar.  Itinayo ito noong panahon ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos para sa kanyang asawang si Imelda Marcos na orihinal na taga Leyte. Ito ay may habang 2.16 kilometro na ginawa sa loob ng apat na taon at opisyal na binuksan noong July 2, 1973. Naging kontrobersyal ang pagpapagawa ng tulay na ito noon, pero sa paglipas ng panahon, naging pamosong atraksyon ito sa mga lokal at mga dayuhan at naging importanteng istruktura para sa ekonomiya ng siyudad ng Tacloban.

Kanhuraw Hill

            Ang Kanhuraw Hill ay isang maliit at mataas na parte ng siyudad kung saan itinayo at matatagpuan ang Tacloban City Hall at ang Kanhuraw Business Center. Pinapasyalan ito ng mga tao lalo na sa umaga at sa hapon dahil kahit ito ay nasa siyudad, malalanghap mula dito ang sariwang hangin at nakakarelaks ang maberde nitong kapaligiran. Mula sa itaas ng Kanhuraw Hill, makikita ang Cancabato Bay at Balyuan Park.

Cancabato Bay at Balyuan Park

          Makikita sa kahabaan ng Magsaysay Boulevard sa siyudad ang Balyuan Park at mahinahong Cancabato Bay.  Ang Balyuan Park ay isang makasaysayang lugar para sa mga taga Tacloban dahil dito naganap at ginugunita kada taon ang ritwal ng Balyuan. Ang ritwal na ito ay isinagawa noong nagpalitan ng imahe ng Sto. Nino ang Samar at Tacloban.  Nandito rin ang Balyuan Amphitheater kung saan ginaganap dito ang iba’t ibang aktibidades ng siyudad lalong lalo na sa panahon ng pyesta at mga selebrasyon. Ang lugar na ito ay malimit puntahan ng mga lokal upang mag jogging o ehersisyo o di kaya magpalipas oras o tumambay dahil sa magandang tanawin at sariwang hangin. Masasaksihan din dito ang magandang paglubog ng araw.

Madonna of Japan Memorial Park

            Ang Madonna of Japan Memorial Park ay isa rin sa makasaysayang lugar na matatagpuan sa isang dako ng Kanhuraw Hill. Ito ay nakaharap sa Cancabato Bay sa may Magsaysay Boulevard. Ang lugar na ito ay naging kampo ng mga hapon noong panahon ng Pangalawang Pandaigdigang digmaan. Ang memorial park ay itinayo bilang simbolo ng kapayapaan at pagkakaibigan ng mga hapon at pilipino.

Sto. Nino Parish

            Ang simbahan ng Sto. Nino sa Tacloban ay isa sa mga makasaysayang istruktura ng siyudad. Ito ay itinayo noong 1596 bilang isang maliit na simbahan ng mga Jesuit. Noong 1860 sa pamamahala ng mga Franciscans, ang maliit na simbahan ay pinalaki at binigyan ng bagong disenyo gawa sa adobe at batong koral.  Karamihan sa mga taga Tacloban ay mga Katoliko at debuto sa simbahang ito dahil nandito ang naghihimalang Sto. Nino. Noong 2013 ng rumagasa ang Bagyong Yolanda, nagkaroon ng malaking pinsala ang simbahan, ngunit sa tulong ng mga donasyon, ito ay naisaayos at mas pinaganda pa noong 2014.  

Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum

Ito ay itinayo ni Presidente Ferdinand Marcos at isa sa 29 rest house ng pamilya sa Pilipinas.  Pero ang lugar na ito ay higit na masasabing isang museo kaysa isang rest house o shrine.  Ito ay pinupuntahan lalo na sa mga educational tours dahil pinapakita dito ang iba’t ibang kulay ng kultura ng mga pilipino.  Makikita dito ang mga koleksyon ng pamilyang Marcos ng mga antique, mga pinta ng mga pamosong pintor, at iba’t ibang mamahalin at magagarang koleksyon ng pamilya mula sa iba’t ibang bansa.  Mayroon bayad ang pagpasok sa Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum at mayroong tour guide na itatalaga para sa paglilibot sa buong mansion.  Ang lugar ay bukas lunes hanggang biyernes mula alas otso ng umaga hanggang alas singko ng hapon.

People Center Library

Ang People Center Library ay importanteng istruktura hindi lamang para sa mga taga Tacloban kundi sa buong Leyte. Itinayo ito noong 1979 sa panahon ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos.  Ang gusali ay may malaking espasyo sa una at ibabang bahagi nito kung saan ito ay ginagamit na lugar ng mga selebrasyon at mga importanteng okasyon gaya ng pagtatapos ng pag-aaral, mga konsyerto, pag-iisang dibdib at iba pa. Sa ikalawang palapag naman matatagpuan ang malawak na aklatan na tinatayang may 55,000 na aklat at mga nobela ng mga pamosong manunulat gaya ni William Shakespeare, Mark Twain, James Joyce at marami pang iba.  Makikita at mababasa rin dito ang orihinal na kopya ng libro ni Dr. Jose Rizal na Noli Me Tangere. Pagkatapos ng Bagyong Yolanda hanggang sa ngayon, ang aklatan ay hindi na naayos dahil sa kakulangan ng pondo para dito, ngunit mayroong mga pribadong organisasyon sa leyte na nagsusulong at naghahangad na ito’y ma salba at maisaayos.

MV Eva Jocelyn

            Ito ang barkong sumadsad sa isang barangay sa Tacloban noong panahon ng bagyong Yolanda.  Ginawa itong memorial park para sa mga daan daang tao na nawalan ng buhay noong kasagsagan ng malakas na baygo.  Tuwing anibersaryo ng Yolanda, nag-aalay ng misa, bulaklak at kandila para sa mga nasawi ang gobyerno sa memorial park na ito.

Pintados at Kasadyaan Festival

Ang Pintados ay isang selebrasyon ng kultura at reliyon na inaalay sa Sto. Nino (Baby Jesus).  Pinag-isa ito sa Kasadyaan Festival na idinaraos tuwing June 29, ang pyesta sa lungsod. Ito ay linalahukan ng iba’t-ibang lungsod sa Leyte at Samar upang ipakita at ipagmalaki ang tradisyon, kasaysayan ng kani-kanilang lugar. Napakakulay at napakasaya ng tradisyon na ito para sa mga taga Tacloban, makasaysayan at importante ito kaya naman parati itong pinaghahandaan ng lungsod.

Hotels, Restaurant at Malls sa Tacloban 

Hotels

Hotel XYZ

Itinayo noong 2013, ang Hotel na ito ay may moderno at masayang awra na binabalik balikan ng mga manlalakbay at kliyente nito. Ang mga kwarto ay malaki ang espasyo at malinis. Ang hotel ay may mga pasilidad gaya ng swimming pool, fitness gym, spa, restaurant, at mga function halls. Ang akomodasyon dito ay nagkakahalaga mula 1,900-5,900 pesos. 

Ironwood Hotel

Isa sa mga magarang hotel sa Tacloban na malimit puntahan ng mga bakasyonista.  Ito ay matatagpuan sa sentro ng siyudad.  Ang pangalan ng hotel ay hango sa pangalan ng pinakamatibay na kahoy sa Pilipinas, ang Mangkono. Noong bagyong Yolanda ay napatunayan ang tibay nito, ito ay nanatiling nakatayo noong kasagsagan ng bagyo at kahit man may nasira na mga pasilidad dito, ang matibay pundasyon nito ay nanatili.  Ang akomodasyon dito ay nagkakahalaga mula  3,250-5,000 pesos. May restaurant, spa at bar sa hotel na ito.

ZPad Residences

Isa sa mga budget hotel na pamoso sa mga manlalakbay sa Tacloban. Malinis at maayos ang mga kwarto at may pasilidad kagaya ng TV, aircon, free wifi, breakfast, at free parking.  Malapit ito sa isang mall, hospital at pamosong fast food chain.  Ang akomodasyon dito ay nagkakahalaga mula 1350-3700 pesos. 

Marami pang ibang bago at magagandang hotel ngayon sa Tacloban na pweding pagpilian depende sa inyong kailangan. Nandiyan ang Go Hotels, Summit Hotel,  Reddoorz at iba pa.

Filipino cuisine

Restaurants

Ocho Seafood Grill

Sinasabing ito ang da best na seafood restaurant sa siyudad. Makasisigurong presko ang pagkain dahil ang mga bisita mismo ang pipili ng preskong seafood na ihahanda.  Ngunit hindi lamang mga seafood ang niluluto ng pamosong kainan na ito, naghahanda din dito ng mga lutong pinoy na binabalik balikan hindi lamang ng mga lokal kundi pati narin ng mga turista.   Ang presyo ay makatwiran naman dahil hindi mo pagsisihan ang pagkain dito.

Dream Cafe

Isa rin sa mga paboritong puntahan ng mga taga siyudad at mga turista ang restaurant na ito. Kung gusto mong makatikim ng mga de kalidad na lutong pinoy at iba pang asian food, worth a try ang Dream Cafe .  Maliban sa lutong pinoy, nagluluto din dito ng lutong australian. Marami ding iba’t ibang klase ng inumin mula sa mga cocktail, wine, whiskey at gin na pagpipilian.

Guiseppe’s 

Kung ikaw ay mahilig sa italian food, ang Giuseppe’s ay nangunguna sa lista ng magandang kainan.  Malinis at komportable ang kainan at kapanapanabik ang  pagkain sapagkat ito’y maamoy mula sa dining area habang niluluto.  Ang may-ari ng restaurant ay isang italian at ang mga pampalasa na ginagamit ang galing pa sa ibang bansa. 

Patio Victoria

            Kung gusto mo naman ng restaurant na malapit sa dagat, ang Patio Victoria ay isa sa pwede mong puntahan.  Ito ay malapit sa airport ng Tacloban, tahimik, nakakarelax at makikita mula dito ang maliit na isla ng Deo.  Mula sa simpleng salo-salo gaya ng breakfast, lunch at dinner, nagseserve din sila para sa malakihang pagtitipon o okasyon.  Pwede ring magligo sa dagat at swimming pool dito.

Malls

Pagkatapos ng bagyong Yolanda noong 2013, maraming mga bagong malls ang itinayo sa Tacloban. Bago pa man, mayroon ng Robinsons Place bilang pinakamalaking mall at mayroong dalawang gusali sa siyudad. Mayroong SM Savemore, Metro, at Gaisano Malls din. Ang mga malls na ito ay nasa mga lokasyon sa siyudad na madaling ma-access ng mga manlalakbay.

Pamosong Pagkain at Kakanin sa Tacloban 

(Food and Delicacy in Tacloban)

            Dahil ang Tacloban ay itinuturing na sentro ng rehiyon, matatagpuan mo dito ang mga paboritong pagkain hindi lang ng mga taga siyudad kundi pati narin ng mga taga Samar at Leyte at iba pang parte ng Visayas.  Kung ikaw ay bibisita sa Tacloban, huwag mong palagpasin ang pagtikim sa mga pamosong pagkain dito.

Binagol

Ang paboritong kakanin na ito ay gawa mula sa kombinasyon ng taro, gatas, asukal, gata at itlog. Inilalagay ito sa kalahating bao ng niyog at binabalot ng dahon ng saging at niluluto. Ito ay matamis at malagkit at ang lasa ay kakaiba at talagang hahanap hanapin.

Suman

            Ang suman ay gawa sa malagkit na bigas na niluluto at binabalot ng dahon ng saging. Maraming klase at bersyon ng suman ang mayroon sa Visayas, ang iba ay matamis at linalagyan ng latik, at ang iba naman ay simpleng malagkit na binabalot ng dahon ng saging.  Ngunit kahit anu pa man ang bersyon ng suman basta galing at ginawa sa Visayas, patok na patok ito sa mga salo salo at mga dumadayo sa siyudad.

Muron o Tsokolateng Muron

            Ang Muron ay isa sa mga pangunahin at pamosong kakanin sa Leyte na pwedeng mabili sa downtown ng Tacloban. Kung ang suman ay gawa sa malagkit na bigas o kanin, ang Muron ay gawa rin sa bigas ngunit ito muna ay giniling.  Mas malambot din ang muron at  pinaghalong chocolate at vanilla flavor.  Ang special na Muron ay nilalagyan naman ng cheese at mani.  Sobrang nakakatakam at hindi dapat palampasin kung ikaw ay bibisita sa Tacloban.

Konklusyon:

            Ang Tacloban ay isa sa mga lugar sa Visayas na dapat puntahan ng mga manlalakbay.  Ang makulay na tradisyon at kultura ng mga Pilipino ay buhay na buhay sa siyudad na ito.  Maraming mga istruktura at lugar ang nandito na naging parte ng kasaysayan ng Pilipinas na hindi mo dapat palampasin na bisitahin.  Kahit paman dumanas ng pagsubok, at delubyo, naging mas matatag at naging progresibo ang siyudad. Kahit ngayon na may pandemya, patuloy na nagiging matatag ang komunidad kasabay ng striktong pag-iingat ang pinapapatupad sa lungsod, kaya kung ikaw ay may planong bumisita sa lungsod, alamin kung ito ba ay kasalukuyang pinahihintulutan at maging maingat.  Gayunpaman,  nakakapanabik at siguradong ang paglalakbay o pagbisita dito sa Tacloban ay isang karanasan na hindi kailanman makakalimutan. Visit the local government website.

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Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe

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Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup

The Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe

Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe is a famous dish within the rural and cities of Indonesia. This is one of those kinds of dishes that have become comfort food to locals and visitors alike. A must-have for the wearily traveling as they explore the nooks and crannies of their Indonesian adventure.

Bakso adalah makanan Indonesia yang terbuat dari campuran daging sapi dan tepung tapioka. Bakso adalah makanan yang berasal dari cina dan menurut sejarah bakso mulai ada di Indonesia sejak ribuan tahun yang lalu ketika pedagang pedagang dari Tiongkok masuk dan menetap di Indonesia.  

Bakso (Indonesian meat ball)  is Indonesian food made from beef and tapioca flour. Bakso is originally from china and historycally basko is popular in Indonesia since a thousand years ago when  Chinese merchants came and stay in Indonesia

Di Tiongkok sendiri bakso biasanya terbuat dari campuran daging babi tetapi karenamayoritas penduduk Indonesia adalah muslim kami menggantinya dengan daging sapi dan mie bakso sapi menjadi salah satu makanan khas Indonesia.

Catatan: jika anda menyukai bakso danging babi anda masih bisa menemuinya di Indonesia.

Selain bakso sapi masih banyak lagi variant bakso seperti bakso ikan, bakso ayam dll.

In China bakso usually made from pork but because most of the people in Indonesia are Muslims so we changed it with beef and mie bakso sapi (beef meatball soup with noodles) has become the typical food in Indonesia.

Note: if you like Bakso Babi (pork meatballs) you can still find it here in Indonesia.

beside bakso sapi there is a lot of variants of bakso like bakso ikan (fish ball), bakso ayam (chicken meatballs), etc.

Meskipun bakso berasal dari Tiongkok tetapi bakso dari Indonesia berbeda dengan dari  Tiongkong, bakso yang berasal dari Indonesia memiliki cita rasa tersendiri yang khas dari rempah rempah Indonesia dan itu yang menjadikan bakso populer di Indonesia.

Even though bakso is originally from China but Bakso (Indonesian meatballs) is different like in China,

we have our own special and unique taste from Indonesian special seasoning so that Bakso has become popular in Indonesia.

MIE BAKSO SAPI

        Mie bakso sapi memang benar benar terkenal di Indonesia dan hampir semua masyarakat Indonesia menyukainya jadi tidak heran jika mie basko ada di daerah manapun di Indonesia dan tidak heran juga jika bakso menjadi salah satu makan kaki lima populer di Indonesia.

Mie bakso sapi is really popular in Indonesia and almost everyone here loves it so, no wonder if mie bakso is everywhere in Indonesia and has become one of most popular street food in Indonesia.

Kebanyakan pedagang bakso berasal dari solo dan wonogiri karena bakso mereka terkenal sangat lezat,  kota solo dan wonogiri sendiri disebut dengan kota bakso, bakso dari solo dan wonogiri sangatlah terkenal dimanapun karena mungkin mereka sudah berjualan bakso sejak lama dan memiliki usaha bakso secara turun temurun dan pastinya juga rasa yang khas membuat bakso solo dan wonogiri itu sendiri menjadi sangat terkenal.

The most of bakso seller are from solo and wonogiri because their bakso has a great taste, Solo city and Wonogiri is called “The city of bakso” , bakso from solo and wonogiri is really popular everywhere in Indonesia its because maybe they has become bakso seller since a long time ago and have bakso bussines from generation to generation and ofcourse the unique taste and delicious has made bakso solo and wonogiri really popular.

Banyak orang orang solo merantau ke daerah daerah di Indonesia dari kota kecil hingga kota besar mereka merantau untuk membuka usaha bakso biasanya mereka menuliskan “Mie bakso solo” atau “mie bakso wonogiri” pada kedai dan gerobak bakso mereka untuk memberi tahu bahwa bakso tersebut asli solo atau wonogiri.

A lot of people in Solo and wonogiri left home to open bakso business in another place in Indonesia from big city to small town they usually put “mie bakso solo” or “mie bakso wonogiri” in their bakso shop or their gerobak (Indonesian traditional cart to sell street food) to let people know that the bakso is original from solo or wonogiri so they gonna come and try.

Selain bakso Solo dan wonogiri ada juga bakso malang yang juga cukup terkenal di Indonesia, sesuai namanya bakso ini berasal dari malang cara penyajian agak sedikit berbeda dengan bakso solo, pada bakso malang ditambahkan tahu putih yang di rebus dan kerupuk pangsit. pedagang bakso malang juga banyak tersebar di banyak wilayah in Indonesia tetapi tidak sebanyak pedagang bakso solo dan wonogiri, sama hal nya seperti pedagang bakso solo, pedagang bakso malang pun selalu menuliskan “bakso malang” pada kedai mereka atau gerobak mereka. 

Bagi saya bakso malang dan bakso solo memiliki cita rasa yang berbeda tetapi kedua nya sama sama memiliki rasa yang lezat dan juga kedua nya berasal dari jawa.

Beside Bakso solo and wonogiri there is Bakso malang that also popular in Indonesia just like the name “Bakso Malang” this kind of bakso is typical food from Malang they way they serve bakso malang is a little bit different like bakso solo, Bakso malang served with white tofu stew and pangsit crackers. Bakso malang seller is also spread in several places in Indonesia but but a lot like bakso solo and wonogiri seller.  Just like bakso solo and wonogiri seller they also like to put “Bakso Malang” in their shop and gerobak. 

For me bakso solo and bakso malang has a different taste but both of them are delicious and have their own unique taste and both are also from Java.

Di era yang modern ini banyak pedagang bakso yang memodifikasi bakso agar lebih menarik dan unik mulai dari bentuk, rasa, dan jenisnya. Di bantul ada bakso ada kedai bakso yang menjual bakso tumpeng mereka juga menawarkan beberapa ukuran dari mulai kecil sedang dan besar, cara penyajiannya sama yaitu dengan mie  hanya saja bentuk nya tidak bulat lagi melainkan segitiga seperti tumpeng, selain itu juga yang sangat populer saat ini adalah bakso beranak yaitu bakso yang berisi bakso kecil, sosis telur dan cabai dan ada juga bakso keju yaitu bakso yang di isi dengan keju meskipun bakso hasil modifikasi tersebut baru bagi masyarakat Indonesia tetapi sudah bisa mencuri perhatian masyarakat Indonesia dan cukup di terima oleh masyarakat indonesia karna rasa nya tidak kalah dengan bakso biasa

In this modern era theres a lot of bakso seller modified the bakso and make it more intersting and unique, from the shape, taste and kind of Bakso. In Bantul Yogyakarta there is a bakso shop that have bakso tumpeng (cone shaped Indonesian yellow rice) this bakso tumpeng have variant size from small, medium to big the way they serve is just the same like bakso solo only the shape that look different when bakso is always round this one is triangle. Beside that there is also Bakso beranak this big size bakso filled with sausage, egg and small bakso sometimes with chilli, there is also bakso keju a bakso filled with Cheese 

Even those Bakso is something new for Indonesian people are welcome with this modern bakso we love it, its delicious just like a traditional bakso

Resep mie bakso Solo

Untuk kuah kaldu sapi

Tulang sapi 

lemak sapi

bawang merah+putih (haluskan lalu tumis) 

1 liter air

1 sdt garam 

1 sdt kaldu bubuk

Masukan tulang sapi, lemak sapi dan tumis bawang merah dan putih ke dalam satu liter air masak hingga mendidih 

Bakso

400 gr Daging sapi cincang

100 gr Daging ayam cincang 

100 gr Tepung tapioka 

½ sdt baking powder

1 sdt garam

1 sdt merica bubuk

1 sdm bawang merah goreng

1 sdm bawang putih goreng 

1 butir telur 

es batu secukupnya

•Masukan semua bahan bahan di atas ke dalam food processor tunggu sekitar 1-2 menit hingga semuanya merata

•siapkan panci dan masukan air tunggu hingga mendidih 

•bentuk adonan bakso hingga berbentuk bulat, lalu masukan kedalam air mendidih jika bakso sudah mengambang bakso siap di tiriskan.

Cara menyajikan bakso

  • siapkan mangkuk
  • masukan mie kuning dan mie putih (bihun) 
  • masukan tauge 
  • seledri yang telah ti cincang
  • sawi 
  • tambahkan kecap
  • masukan bakso 
  • taburi bawang merah goreng
  • terakhir masukan kuah kaldu sapi yang masih panas
  • jika anda pecinta pedas anda bisa menambahkan saus dan sambal

How to Make Mie Bakso Solo

And your Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe is ready to serve 

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Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe

The Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe
Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe is a famous dish within the rural and cities of Indonesia. This is one of those kinds of dishes that have become comfort food to locals and visitors alike. A must-have for the wearily traveling as they explore the nooks and crannies of their Indonesian adventure.
Bakso adalah makanan Indonesia yang terbuat dari campuran daging sapi dan tepung tapioka. Bakso adalah makanan yang berasal dari cina dan menurut sejarah bakso mulai ada di Indonesia sejak ribuan tahun yang lalu ketika pedagang pedagang dari Tiongkok masuk dan menetap di Indonesia.  
Bakso (Indonesian meat ball)  is Indonesian food made from beef and tapioca flour. Bakso is originally from china and historycally basko is popular in Indonesia since a thousand years ago when  Chinese merchants came and stay in Indonesia
Di Tiongkok sendiri bakso biasanya terbuat dari campuran daging babi tetapi karenamayoritas penduduk Indonesia adalah muslim kami menggantinya dengan daging sapi dan mie bakso sapi menjadi salah satu makanan khas Indonesia.
Catatan: jika anda menyukai bakso danging babi anda masih bisa menemuinya di Indonesia.
Selain bakso sapi masih banyak lagi variant bakso seperti bakso ikan, bakso ayam dll.
In China bakso usually made from pork but because most of the people in Indonesia are Muslims so we changed it with beef and mie bakso sapi (beef meatball soup with noodles) has become the typical food in Indonesia.
Note: if you like Bakso Babi (pork meatballs) you can still find it here in Indonesia.
beside bakso sapi there is a lot of variants of bakso like bakso ikan (fish ball), bakso ayam (chicken meatballs), etc.
Meskipun bakso berasal dari Tiongkok tetapi bakso dari Indonesia berbeda dengan dari  Tiongkong, bakso yang berasal dari Indonesia memiliki cita rasa tersendiri yang khas dari rempah rempah Indonesia dan itu yang menjadikan bakso populer di Indonesia.
Even though bakso is originally from China but Bakso (Indonesian meatballs) is different like in China,
we have our own special and unique taste from Indonesian special seasoning so that Bakso has become popular in Indonesia.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indonesian
Keyword Bakso, meetball, soup
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 400kcal
Author Devina Noviyanti

Equipment

  • Heating pan
  • small frying wok

Ingredients

  • bow bones
  • cow fat
  • onion+garlic blend smooth and then stir-fry
  • 1 liter water
  • 1 tsp salt 
  • 1 tsp broth powder
  • 400 gram minced beef 
  • 100 gram minced chicken
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 1 tbs fried onion
  • 1 tbs fried garlic
  • 1 egg
  • 1 Ice Cube

Instructions

  • Place all the ingredients into food processor mix it together waits until 1-2 minutes until its smooth Cook clear water in a pot until it boilsscoop then meatball paste with your hand and shaped like a ball place into boiling water if the meatball is float already the meatball is ready to drain

Notes

How to serve bakso 
  • place yellow noodles and white noodles (vermicelli noodles) in a bowl
  • add bean sprouts
  • Mustard greens (chopped)
  • celery (minced)
  • add soy sauce 
  • placed the meatballs 
  • add a sprinkle of fried onion 
  • pour boiled beef broth soup 
  • if you like spicy you can add sauce and sambal
And your Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe is ready to serve 

You can learn more about Indonesia from it food, culture, and sights by following ExploreTraveler and our Indonesia articles here.

Cebu Top na Atraksyon: Sa Panahon ng “New Normal”

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Cebu, Philippines

Cebu Top na Atraksyon

Cebu Top 8 na Atraksyon – Sa nakaraang taon, ang COVID-19 na pandemya ay tumama sa buong mundo pati narin sa Pilipinas at ang paglalakbay ay isa sa mga masyadong naapektuhan at linimitahan.  Para sa isang mahilig maglakbay, ang pandemyang ito ay marahil nakapag bigay ng pagkayamot dahil sa hindi natuloy na mga planong paglalakbay.  Pero yun ay sa nakaraang taon, ngayon ang mundo ay unti-unti nang bumabangon at umangkop sa bagong paraan na tinawag na “New Normal” o bagong normal.

Anu ba ang ibig sabihin ng New Normal? Ang terminolohiyang ito ay naging pamilyar at malawakang ginagamit sa mga social media, sa internet, telebisyon, mga establisiyemento, at halos lahat sa buong mundo noong nagsimula ang lahat na bumangon sa epekto ng COVID-19 na pandemya.  Ang terminong ito ay nangangahulugan lamang sa bagong pamumuhay, bagong paraan ng pagtatrabaho o pagpasok sa eskwela, bagong paraan sa paggawa ng ating pang araw-araw na gawain, at bagong paraan ng paglalakbay kung saan kinukonsidera ang mga pag-iingat upang maiwasan ang pagkalat ng COVID-19.

Sa Pilipinas, ang gobyerno ay muling binuksan ang turismo sa mga lokal at banyagang manlalakbay, pero importante na tiyakin muna na ang paglalakbay ay pinahihintulutan sa inyong destinasyon dahil mayroon paring mga lugar sa Pilipinas na posibleng hindi pa pinahihintulutan ang mga turista.  Dahil ang mga kailangang dokumento o requirements sa paglalakbay ay posibleng mag iba, alamin ang mga opisyal na pinakabagong patakaran o alituntunin sa mga restriksyon at mga kinakailangan na posibleng makaapekto sa inyong paglalakbay.

Pangkalahatang Alituntunin sa Paglalakbay sa Panahon ng New Normal

1. Alamin ang pinakabagong restriksyon sa mga manlalakbay sa lugar na inyong pupuntahan

Bumisita sa mga opisyal na web page at website katulad na lamang ng sa Department of Tourism, Department of Foreign Affairs, o ang mga local na website ng probinsya o munisipyong inyong pupuntahan para makakuha ng tama at opisyal na impormasyon.  Hindi mo gugustuhing mag book ng inyong ticket at sa bandang huli ay inyong kanselahin.

2. Kompletuhin ang lahat ng kinakailangang dokumento

Para sa mga turista, dokumento katulad ng travel o tourist pass, medical certificate o clearance, itinerary ng paglalakbay, round trip ticket, at kompirmasyon ng hotel na tutuluyan ay posibleng kailanganin.  Tiyaking dala at kompleto ang mga kailangang dokumento para sa inyong paglalakbay upang maiwasan ang komplikasyon sa paglalakbay.

3. Huwag kalimutang magdala ng sanitizer sa inyong backpack

Sa halos lahat ng pampublikong lugar ngayong may pandemya, ay may mga hand sanitizers na makikita dahil ito ay mandato ng gobyerno bilang pag-iwas sa pagkalat ng mga mikrobyo, pero tiyakin lamang na magdala upang magamit mo kung kinakailangan.  Ugaliing maghugas ng inyong kamay kapag ikaw ay nakakahawak ng bagay na posibleng hawakan din ng ibang tao gaya ng door knob at barandilya.

4. Parating magsuot ng prokteksyon laban sa COVID-19 at panatilihing dumistansya lalo na maraming tao

Ang pasusuot ng face shield at face mask sa mga pambublikong lugar ay kautusang batas sa Pilipinas, ang dalawang ito ay kinakailangan din sa pagpunta sa Cebu.  Posibleng hindi ka papasukin sa mga establisiyemento kung wala kang suot na face shield at mask.  Medical grade o cotton o telang mask ang pweding suotin maliban sa mask na may valve.

5. Huwag mag lakbay kung hindi maganda ang pakiramdam

Kung ikaw ay nakakaranas ng mga sintomas na parang trangkaso, huwag munang mag lakbay, kahit na book na ang inyong ticket.

Mactan Philippines

Mga Destinasyon sa Cebu sa Panahon ng New Normal

Ang Cebu ay grupo ng mga isla na matatagpuan sa gitnang bahagi ng Pilipinas.  Ito ay binubuo ng pangunahing isla at napapaligiran ng 167 na magaganda at natural na mga isla at maliliit na isla.  Ang Cebu City ay pangalawang metropolitan na lungsod sa Pilipinas, ang pinakamatanda at ang unang kabisera ng Pilipinas. 

Dahil sa heolohikal nitong lokasyon, ang Cebu ay isa sa mga lugar kung saan nagaganap ang mga pangangalakal bago pa dumating ang mga Espanyol.  Ito rin ang nagsisilbing gateway sa napakaraming tourist destination sa Pilipinas katulad ng Bohol kung saan makikita ang pamosong Chocolate Hills, Boracay Island, Puerto Princesa at marami pang iba.

Mayamang kultura, nakakaenganyong kasaysayan, maganda at kamangha-manghang dagat at scuba diving sites, mayamang kabundukan, natatanging mga luto, at mababait na mga tao ay ang “Cebu’s Best” para sa mga manlalakbay.

Must-Visit na mga Makasaysayang Destinasyon

Kung ikaw ay mahilig sa mga makasaysayan, kultural, o relihiyosong pamamasyal, and Cebu ay mayaman sa mga atraksiyong nag bibigay buhay sa kasaysayan nito, at nagpapakita sa malawak at makulay nitong kultura at relihiyon.

1. Mactan Shrine

Ang Mactan Shrine ay makikita sa Lapu-lapu City kung saan nandito rin ang Mactan Airport.  Ang shrine ay ang pinaniniwalaang lokasyon kung saan ang “Battle of Mactan” o “Kadaugan sa Mactan” ay naganap.  Sa makasaysayang digmaang ito, si Lapu-Lapu, kung saan ang lugar ipinangalan, isa sa mga lider sa lugar at tinatayang 1,500 na taga doon sa lugar ay nakipag digmaan laban sa mga sundalo na pinangungunahan ng isang Portuguese na manlalakbay na si Ferdinand Magellan, na pumunta sa Cebu at isla ng Mactan noong Abril 1521 para ipakilala at dalhin ang Katolisismo sa lugar.  Si Lapu-Lapu at ang kanyang mga kasama na hindi sumang-ayon dito ay nagwagi sa labananng ito at ang kolonisasyon ay napigilan sa loob ng 44 na taon.  Ang shrine ay may dalawang monumento, ang monumento ni Lapu-Lapu upang gunitain at bigyang parangal si Datu Lapu-Lapu sa kanyang katapangan na ipaglaban ang kanyang sinasakupan, at monumento ni Ferdinand Magellan sa pagdadala at pagpapakilala sa Katolisismo sa Pilipinas at ang Santo Nino (Batang Hesus) sa Cebu. 

2. Simala Shrine

Matatagpuan sa mataas na bahagi sa Lindongon, Simala, Sibonga,Cebu, ang Simala Shrine ay isa talagang simbahan at pamoso sa mga lokal at mga turista.  Ang simbahang ito ay binibisita ng maraming tao lalong lalo na sa Holy Week at mga aktibidad para ipagdiwang ang Birheng si Maria.  Katulad ng ibang simbahan at monasteryo sa Pilipinas, ang shrine ay isinara pansamantala sa publiko noong kasagsagan ng pandemya pero binuksan din noong Disyembre 2020.  Dahil sa karingalan at mala-kastilyong awra nito, kahit ang mga taong hindi masyadong relihiyoso ay hindi mapipigilang ito ay bisitahin.  Ang pambihira nitong istruktura, payapang atmospera, at nakakalulang tanawin ay ilan lamang sa mga rason kung bakit dapat itong ma-experience at mabisita ng mga manglalakbay. Kung ikaw ay pupunta sa shrine, bukod sa pagsusuot ng face shield at face mask at pagoobserba ng distansiya sa mga tao, ang mga bumibisita ay pinaaalalahanang panatilihin ang katahimikan sa sagradong lugar.

3. Taoist Temple

Ang Cebu Taoist Temple ay makikita sa subdibisyon ng Beverly Hills sa Lahug, Cebu City, at itinatyo noong 1972.  Ang lokasyon nito ay nasa mataas na bahagi ng siyudad na tinatayang na 360 talampakan at maaari lamang mapuntahan gamit ang mga pribadong sasakyan.  Ang lugar ay binuksan para sa mga mananampalataya at hindi mananampalataya.  Ang bukana papunta sa templo ay replika ng “Great Wall of china” at ito ay kamangha-mangha.  Kinakailangan umakyat sa tinatayang 120 na baiting upang maabot ang pangunahing templo kung saan makikita mula sa itaas ang lungsod at ang mayabong na kabundukan ng Cebu. Nakakarelaks at “worth it” ang pakiramdam habang nararanasan ang preskong hangin at pinagmamasdan ang kaayang-ayang arkitektural na desenyo ng lugar.

4. Sinulog Festival

Dinaraos tuwing ikatlong lingo sa buwan ng Enero upang ipagdiwang at sambahin ang Santo Nino (Baby Jesus), ang relehiyosong tradisyong ito ay isa sa mga kakaiba, makulay, buhay na buhay, at pinaka malaking piyesta sa Cebu.  Ang gawaing ito ay linalahukan ng mga tao mula sa iba’t-ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas. Sa piyestang ito makikita ang makukulay na sayaw sa kalye gamit ang tambol at trumpeta ng mga kalahok na nagmula pa sa iba’t-ibang rehiyon ng Pilipinas. Daang maliliit na tindahan para sa face tattoo at mga pasalubong at memorabilia ang makikita sa daan.

Ngunit nitong 2021 naantala ang Sinulog Festival dahil sa COVID-19 pandemic. Tayo ay umaasa at nananalangin na masaksihang muli ang pagdiriwang na ito sa susunod na taon.

Mga Dapat Bisitahin na Scuba Diving Sites

Ang Pilipinas ay naparangalan bilang Best Overseas Diving Area (overseas category) sa Marine Diving Awards 2020 na naganap sa Tokyo. Nakatanggap din ng nominasyon ang Pilipinas bilang Asia’s Leading Dive Destination at World’s Leading Dive Destination sa 27th World Travel Awards. Ang Cebu ay isa sa mga lugar sa Pilipinas na kilala dahil sa kamangha-mangha at yamang natural sa karagatan. Ang scuba diving sa Cebu ay magbibigay ng napakagandang karanasan sa mga ocean explorers at scuba diving fanatics.

Bagaman ang scuba diving ay isa sa mga aktibidad na pinaghigpitan sa kasagsagan ng COVID-19 pandemic, noong Oktobre 2020, kinilala itong non-contact sport o aktibidad at kalauna’y pinayagan ang scuba diving alinsunod sa mga bagong patakaran:

  1. Ang scuba diving sa mga lugar na naka GCQ (General Community Quarantine) at MGCQ (Modified General Community Quarantine) ay pinapayagang magbukas. Ngunit dahil maari itong magbago depende sa lugar, ugaliing suriin ang mga pinagbabawal ng lokal na pamahalaan kung nasaan ang diving site. 
  2. Magdala ng sariling diving gears at mga kagamitan. Bawal ang panghihiram ng gamit.
  3. Magdala at gumamit ng mga hand sanitizers o disinfectants kung kinakailangan.
  4. Bawal ang pag dura para ma defog ang inyong gears. Gumamit ng sabon at shampoo bilang defogger.
  5. Magsuot ng face shield at mask kung nakikipag-usap sa ibang tao.

Cebu Diving

1. Pescador Island

Ang “Pescador Experience” ay isa sa pinaguusapan ng maraming divers na naka pasyal sa Pescador. Ito ay nakapupukaw at nakakaakit na karanasan na karapat-dapat subukan sa Cebu. Ang isla na isang marine park ay makikita sa lalawigan ng Moalboal sa Cebu at kinikilala bilang hiyas ng Moalboal. Tanyag ang islang ito dahil sa sardine run kung saan libo-libong sardinas na parang buhawi ang nakakamanghang pagmasdan. Makikita din dito ang iba’t-ibang uri ng marine life tulad ng scorpionfish, stonefish, snappers, barracuda, frogfish, at iba pa. Pangkaraniwang makikita ang mga pagong sa islang ito. Sa kanlurang bahagi ng isla makikita ang “Pescador Cathedral”, isang yungib na nagsisimula sa 18 metro hangang 40+ metro. Nakakalito lang minsan ang agos ng dagat pero siguradong magkakaroon ka ng hindi makakalimutang karanasan sa inyong buhay.

2. Mactan Island

Ang islang ito ay isa sa mga pamosong diving spots hindi lamang sa Cebu kundi sa buong Pilipinas.  Maraming diving centers dito ang pinahintulutan nang magbukas sa kasagsagan ng pandemya, pero mas magandang mag book muna bago pumunta dito.  Ang islang ito ay madaling puntahan dahil nandito rin ang internasyunal na airport ng Cebu, kaya naman kung mayroon ka lamang limitadong oras sa inyong pag bisita sa cebu pero gusto mong maranasan at makita ang yamang dagat dito, ang islang ito ay hindi ka bibiguin.

Ang isla ng Mactan at ang mga nakapalibot ditong maliliit na isla ay mayroong iba’t iba, makukulay, at mayamang likas ng dagat.  Makakakita dito ng sea snakes, frogfish, barracuda, leaf fish, mandarin fish, groupers, scorpion fish, blue-ribbon eels, nudibranchs, rainbow runners, pufferfish, clownfish, sweet lips, moray eels, drummers, harlequin fish, butterfly fish, pipefish at marami pang iba.  Sa mas malaking sanktuaryo, marami ang mackerel at jacks, turtles, stingrays, at minsan big eye trevallies.  Ang ibang dive spots ay tahanan ng mga thresher sharks at hammerhead sharks.

Ang mga diving sites gaya ng sa Tambuli, Agus, Marigondon Cave, Talima Marine Sanctuary ay mapupunahan din mula sa Mactan Island.

Island

Ang Malapascua ay maliit na isla na may habang 2.5 kilometro at lawak na isang kilometro.  Meron itong white sand at tahanan ng maliit na komunidad.  Matatagpuan sa pinakadulo ng hilagang bahagi ng Cebu, kelangang bumiyahe ng apat na oras papuntang Daanbantayan at sumakay ng bangka ng mahigit kumulang limang minuto papunta sa isla.

Ang islang ito ay napaka popular na diving spot sa Cebu at maganda para sa mga baguhang divers.  Magbibigay ito ng malawak at nakakapukaw na karansan para sa mga baguhan dahil ang dive dito ay madaling gawin pero magbibigay inspirasyon para muling sumusid.  Ang Malapascua ay pamoso sa mga thresher shark dives sa Monad Shoal, dito ay pweding lumangoy kasama ang mga thresher sharks hanggang kelan mo gusto at marami pang diving experience kung saan makikita ang hindi pa nagagalaw na mga coral gardens, mga bahura, pagdidive sa gabi, wall dives at maraming pang iba.

Ang Cebu ay tunay ngang mayaman ang karagatan at maraming dving spots. Pwede ring bisitahin ang Olango group of islands na malapit lang sa Mactan Island, Nalusuan Island at ang Hilutungan Islang na hindi dapat palampasin sa island hopping at pag iisnorkel. Ang Catancillo Island kung saan makikita ang kakaibang spot na tinatawag na Rendez-Vous, ay isang napakagandang pader papuntang ilalim na may 180 feet patungo sa ibat-ibang uri ng likas na yaman sa ilalim ng dagat.

3. Lumangoy kasama ang mga Whale Shark sa Oslob

Ang whale watching sa oslob ay sinuspende ng apat na buwan sa kasagsagan ng pandemya pero ito’y muling binuksan noong Agosto 2020.

Itong nakakamangha at exciting na paglangoy kasama ang mga whale shark ay mararanasan sa Oslob.  Dito, meron kang oportunidad na pumili kung ikaw ay magiisnorkel at makita ng malapitan ang mga whale shark o sila’y panourin mula sa bangka habang sila ay lumalangoy at pinapakain ng mga bangkero.

Talaga namang nakakaexcite na lumangoy kasama ang mga dambuhalang hayop na ito pero importante na sumunod sa mga alituntunin upang siguraduhin na ligtas ka at ang mga whale sharks.

4. Kawasan Falls

Ang talon ng Kawasan ay matatagpuan sa Badian at malapit lamang sa Moalboal.  Ang natural na talong ito ay may tatlong bahagi ng klaro at kulay turkesang tubig mula sa bukal sa kabundukan ng Mantalongon. Ang unang bahagi ng talon ang pinakamalaki at ang bahagi na mas marami ang bumibisita, kelangang umakyat ng humigit kumulang 15 minuto upang mapuntahan ang pangalawang bahagi at umakyat pa upang mapuntahan naman ang ikatlong bahagi.  Ang pagcacanyoneering ay ang pinakapopular sa lugar na ito.  Nagsisimula ito sa ilog ng Canlaob papuntang ibaba sa talon ng Kawasan.

Mga atraksyon sa Cebu Transcentral Highway (Mountain Tour)

Ang Trancentral Highway ng Cebu ay isa sa pinaka magandang ginawa o binago sa isla na may relasyon sa transportasyon. Ang 33 kilometrong highway na ito ay parang ahas sa gitna ng mayabong, maberding kabundukan na nagsisimula sa silangang bahagi ng lalawigan ng Cebu patungo sa kanluran sa Balamban.  Ang daang ito ay pamoso sa mga nagbibike o motorcycle riders dahil sa parang walang katapusang paliko-likong daan, malamig na temperature, at ang natural na berding kapaligiran.  Ang lugar na ito ay maikokompara sa famosong Kennon Road sa Baguio.

Camping sites, strawberry garden, flower gardens gaya ng Sirao Flower Garden, malawak na taniman ng gulay, any makikita dito at bukas sa publiko.  Mountain adventures gaya ng pag zizipline, sky biking, trekking o paghihike, at pagsakay ng kabayo ay mararanasan din dito.

1. Temple of Leah

Isa sa mga bagong atraksyon sa may Cebu Trancentral Highway na unti-unting nagiging pamoso sa mga local at dayuhang bisita ay ang Temple of Leah an tinaguriang “Taj Mahal” ng Cebu.  Ang estrukturang ito wa ginawa noong 2021 sa mataas na bahagi ng Busay bilang ekresyon ng pagmamahal ng isang mayamang businessman sa Cebu sa kanyang yumaong asawa na nagngangalang Leah. Makikita ang buong lalawigan ng Cebu mula sa Greco-Roman style na estrakturang ito.

 

Konklusyon

Ang turismo kahit ito ay biglang hindi pinahintulutan sa Cebu dahil sa Covid-19 na pandemya, ang magagandang tanawin at nakakamanghang tourist spots dito ay muling binuksan para sa mga manlalakbay upang makita at maranasan.  Siguraduhin lamang na icheck ang mga pinakabagong alituntunin at mga kinakailangan sa paglalakbay ng inyong pupuntahang lugar bago kayo maglakbay.

Ang Cebu ay tunay ngang isa sa mga lugar sa Pilipinas na hindi dapat palampasin ng isang manlalakbay dahil siguradong ito ay inyong pagsisihan .  Ang Cebu ay mayaman, buhay na buhay at kakaibang isla.  Mula sa nakakainteres at pamosong historical sites, sikat sa buong mundong karagatan, scuba diving experience, hanggang sa nakaka excite na adventure sa natural nitong kabundukan at marami pang iba.

Romance in the tropical paradise of Canigao Island in the Philippines

Cebu Top na Atraksyon

Additional Information on traveling to Cebu, Philippines Wikipedia Cebu

Tuklasin ang Misteryo ng Chocolate Hills sa Bohol, Philippines

Cebu Top Tourist Attractions : In the New Normal

Pangingisda Sa Pilipinas

Cebu Top na Atraksyon

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Cebu Top Tourist Attractions : In the New Normal

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Cebu, Philippines

Cebu Top Tourist Attractions: In the New Normal 

A year ago, COVID-19 pandemic hit the world and the Philippines and travel has been one of the activities which have been placed with most restrictions. For someone who is fond of traveling, this pandemic must have given you the frustrations due to postponed or canceled travel plans. But that was a year ago, now the world had started to move on and adapt to the new way called New Normal. 

What does “New Normal” mean?  This term had been very familiar and widely used over social media, the internet, television, establishments, and everywhere else around the world when we started to recover from the effects of COVID-19. This term basically means a new lifestyle, a new way at work or school, a new way to do our everyday activities, and a new way to travel with consideration of the precautionary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

In the Philippines, the government has reopened tourist visits for both local and foreign travelers, but then it is important to make sure that travel is allowed to your specific destination since some areas in the Philippines may still be under some tourist restrictions. Because the requirements to travel may change from time to time, always check the official local guidelines for the latest updates on restrictions and necessary requirements that may affect your travel plans.

General Rule in Travelling in the New Normal

1. Check for the latest travel restrictions in your place of destination:

Visit official web pages and other websites such as the Department of Tourism, the Department of Foreign Affairs, or the local website of the province that you would like to travel to for you to get accurate and official information.  You don’t want to book your ticket and end up canceling or rebooking it just because you did not check first.

2. Complete all needed documents:

For tourists, documents such as travel or tourist pass, medical certificate or clearance, travel itinerary, round trip ticket, and hotel accommodation may be needed.  Just make sure to bring and complete all needed documents for your travel to avoid travel hassles. Again check out the latest requirements as this may change from time to time.

3. Don’t forget to include sanitizers in your backpack:

In most public areas nowadays during the pandemic, hand sanitizers are everywhere as this is mandated by law in establishments, but just make sure to bring some for you to use whenever needed.  Always sanitize your hand whenever it touches something that other people also touches such as doorknobs and rails.

4. Always wear protective gear and maintain social distancing:

Wearing a face shield and face mask in public areas is mandatory in the Philippines, these two are essential when you travel as well to Cebu.  You may not be allowed to enter an establishment without the shield and the mask.  Medical grade or cloth masks can be used, masks with valves are not allowed. The social distancing of 1-2 meters has also been mandated, although most forget to abide by this, this is important as some locals may not be wearing masks and face shields.

5. Do not travel when you are feeling off:

If you have flu-like symptoms, don’t travel, no matter if you have booked your tickets already or not.

Travel Destinations in Cebu in the New Normal

Cebu is a group of islands that are located in the central part of the Philippines. It consists of the main island and 167 surrounding beautiful and natural islands and islets. Cebu City which is the second metropolitan area in the Philippines is the oldest city and the first capital of the country. 

Because of its geographic location, Cebu has been one of the major places for trading even before the historic arrival of the Spaniards.  It also serves as a gateway to a lot of tourist destinations in the Philippines including Bohol, where the famous Chocolate Hills can be found, Boracay island, Puerto Princesa, and a lot more.

Rich cultural heritage, exotic history, beautiful and mesmerizing beaches, scuba diving sites, rich mountain areas, unique cuisine, and warm people are Cebu’s best for travelers. 

 

  • Must-Visit Historical Tourist Destinations

If you are a lover of historical and cultural and religious adventures, Cebu is rich with attractions depicting the interesting history of its past and broad and colorful cultural heritage and religious attractions.

1. Mactan Shrine:

Mactan Shrine is located in Lapu-Lapu City where the Mactan Airport is also located.  The shrine is believed to be the approximate location of the Battle of Mactan. In this historical battle, Lapu Lapu, whom the city has been named, one of the chieftains, and an estimated 1500 natives fought against soldiers led by the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan who came to Mactan Island in April 1521 to bring catholicism.  Lapu Lapu and his men who were resistant to accept Ferdinand Magellan and his cause won against this battle and colonization were delayed for about 44 years. The shrine hosts two monuments, the monument of Lapu-Lapu as he was honored for his bravery to protect his village and for Ferdinand Magellan for bringing Catholicism to the Philippines and the Santo Nino (Baby Jesus) to Cebu.

2. Simala Shrine:

Situated in an uphill of Lindongon, Simala, Sibonga, Cebu, Simala Shrine is actually a church and is famous among the locals and tourists alike. This place is most visited and is packed with people especially during Holy Week and other Catholic activities celebrating the Virgin Mary. Just like other churches and monasteries in the Philippines, the Shrine was closed to the public during the height of the pandemic but was reopened in December 2020.  Because of its magnificent and “castle-like” aura, people who are not even religious could not resist exploring the place.  Its unique structure, serene atmosphere, and the majestic view is a must experience for tourists.  When you get here, aside from wearing a face mask and face shield, and observing social distancing, visitors are reminded to keep silent and avoid making unnecessary noise.

3. Taoist Temple:

By JuanPiso – Own work

“The Cebu Taoist Temple is located in the Beverly Hills subdivision in Lahug, Cebu City, and was built in 1972.  Its location is elevated about 360 ft above sea level and could be reached through private vehicles only.  The place has been opened to worshippers and non-worshippers alike.  The entrance to the temple is a replica of the great wall of China and is a breathtaking view. Not only that, you will have to walk up to an estimated 120 steps of stairs to reach the main of the temple which will give you a dual view of the city and the green lush mountain area of Cebu.  One can get a relaxing and “worth it” feeling as one feel the fresh breeze of air and the mesmerizing architectural design of the temple.”

4. Sinulog Festival:

Celebrated every 3rd Sunday in January in honor of Santo Nino (Baby Jesus), this religious tradition is one of the unique, colorful, vibrant, and biggest festivals in Cebu. This activity is being participated not just by the locals of Cebu but all over the Philippines.  People from different areas in the country book their flights and reserve ahead for this wondrous day.  The festivity showcases colorful street dancing with drums and bugles from different groups of all ages all over the Philippines sponsored by their respective region.  Religious and non-religious visitors wouldn’t want to miss witnessing this fantabulous sight.  Hundreds of small stalls for face tattoos and souvenirs lined up on the street as well so you can shop and get memorabilia of the festival.

However, the 2021 Sinulog Festival physical and virtual celebrations were postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.  One can only hope and pray to see the vibrant and fun-filled celebration again next year as this festival is being held annually.

Cebu Philippines Scuba

  • Must-Visit Scuba Diving Sites

The Philippines was awarded as the Best Overseas Diving Area (overseas category) at the Marine Diving Awards 2020 in Tokyo, and the Philippines also received nominations as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination and World’s Leading Dive Destination at the 27th World Travel Awards. Cebu is among those places in the Philippines known for its spectacular, rich, and natural under the ocean flora and fauna. Scuba diving in the Cebu oceans is an experience ocean explorers and scuba diving fanatics shouldn’t miss when you visit Cebu.  

Although scuba diving is one of the activities that was restricted during the COVID-19 pandemic, in October 2020, diving was tagged as a non-contact sport or activity and was again allowed during the pandemic in the Philippines.  But before going on a dive, one needs to be reminded of the new normal rules in scuba diving:

  1. Scuba Diving in areas placed on GCQ (General Community Quarantine) and MGCQ (Modified General Community Quarantine) are allowed to operate.  Since this may change from time to time, check the latest update on restrictions of the scuba dive site you want to visit.
  2. Bring your own diving gear and equipment box. Strictly no borrowing.
  3. Bring and apply liberally hand disinfectants throughout the day whenever necessary.
  4. Spitting to defog your gear is prohibited. Soap and shampoo are advised to be used as a defogger and is mandatory to be available in diving centers.
  5. Wear face shield and mask when not on actual dive and when interacting with other people.

1. Pescador Island:

A lot of divers who have visited Pescador talk about the “Pescador Experience.”  This is an exciting and mesmerizing experience you shouldn’t miss when you visit Cebu.  The Island which has been turned into a marine park is located in the municipality of Moalboal in Cebu and is considered Moalboal’s Jewel. The island is known for the sardine run which seems like thousands of them forming like a tornado is breathtaking to witness.  You can find a variety of ocean life here like scorpionfish, stonefish, snappers, school of barracuda, frogfish, and a lot more. Turtles are common on this island too. On the west side of the island, you will find the “Pescador Cathedral”, a cavern or funnel starting at 18 meters dropping to 40+ meters, with pockets, bridges, and swim-throughs. Currents can be a bit tricky sometimes but you will surely have one of the most unforgettable diving experiences in your life.

2. Mactan Island:

This island is one of the famous diving spots not only in Cebu but in the Philippines.  Many diving centers are open here since diving was allowed during the pandemic, but it is best to book  This island is very accessible since this is also where the international airport is located, so if you have limited time in Cebu but you want to experience and witness its rich marine life, then the island will not disappoint you.

Mactan island and its surrounding island has diverse, colorful, and rich marine life. You will see snakes, frogfish, barracudas, leaf fish, mandarin fish, groupers, scorpionfish, blue-ribbon eels, nudibranchs, rainbow runners, pufferfish, clownfish, sweet lips, moray eels, drummers, harlequin fish, butterflyfish, pipefish, and many others. In the bigger marine sanctuaries, there are schooling mackerel and jacks, turtles, stingrays, and occasionally bigeye trevallies. Some dive spots are home to thresher sharks and hammerhead sharks.

Dive sites such as Tambuli, Agus, Marigondon Cave, Talima Marine Sanctuary can be accessed through Mactan Island. 

3. Malapascua Island:

Malapascua is a small island of 2.5 kilometers in length and 1-kilometer width. It has a long stretch of white sand beach and is home to a small community.  Located at the tip in the north part of Cebu, one will have to travel about four hours to Daanbantayan and take a 5 minutes boat ride to the island.

The island is a very popular diving spot in Cebu and is ideal for diving beginners. It offers a great and exciting experience for newbie divers as the dives here are easy to do but would inspire and thrill newbie divers to do more dives.  Malapascua is famous for the thresher shark dives in Monad Shoal, here you can swim with the thresher sharks as much as you want and a lot of dive experience from unspoiled coral gardens, reefs and wrecks, night dives, wall dives, and a lot more.

Cebu indeed has rich marine life and a lot of diving spots, you can also visit the Olango group of islands which are adjacent to Mactan Island, Nalusuan Island, and Hilutungan Island which can’t be missed out during island hopping and notable for great snorkeling experience, and Capitancillo Island wherein a unique spot called the Rendez-Vous is located, is a deep gorgeous wall down to 180 feet to the different sloped walls a unique underwater fauna and flora.

4. Swimming with Whale Shark in Oslob:

The whale watching was suspended for about 4 months during the height of the pandemic but it has already resumed starting August 2020.  

This thrilling and breathtaking swim with the whale shark can be experienced in Oslob. You will have the opportunity to decide to see them from the boat or you can snorkel or dive to see the whale shark closely.  About 5-10 whale sharks are noted to visit the site every day as fishermen feed them.

It is truly exciting to swim with these majestic animals but it is important to follow instructions and make sure you and whale sharks are safe.

5. Kawasan Falls:

Kawasan Falls is located in Badian and is near Moalboal.  This natural waterfall is a three-stage cascade of clear turquoise water from the mountain springs of the Mantalongon mountain range. The waterfall in the first stage is the largest and is the one which tourists mostly visit, you must climb to about 15 minutes to reach the second one, and must climb higher to reach the 3rd one.  Canyoneering adventure is a popular activity in this area. It starts at Canlaob river downstream going to Kawasan falls. 

  • Attractions at Cebu Transcentral Highway (Mountain Tour)

The trans central highway of Cebu is considered as one of the best innovations on the island in terms of transportation. The 33-kilometer highway is snake-like resting in the lush green mountains as it stretches from the east coast of Cebu City to the west coast in Balamban. This road is famous for bikers because of its notable winding road and relaxing cold temperature and natural green environment. This area here can be compared to the famous Kennon Road in Baguio.

Camping sites, strawberry garden, flower gardens such as Sirao Flower Garden, wide vegetable gardens, can be found here and is open to the public. Mountain adventures such as Ziplining, Sky biking, trekking, horseback riding can be experienced as well. 

1. Temple of Leah:

One of the recent attractions along the Cebu Transcentral Highway which is gaining local and foreign interest is the Temple of Leah which is dubbed as the “Taj Mahal” of Cebu.  This structure was built in 2012 on a mountain top in Busay as an expression of the love of a wealthy businessman in Cebu to his late wife named Leah.  This Greco-Roman like big structure overlooks the city of Cebu.

Conclusion:

Although tourism was suddenly halted in Cebu due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the beautiful, scenic and breathtaking tourist spots here have been reopened for travelers to see and experience.  Just make sure to check updates on travel requirements to your specific destination before you plan your travel. 

Cebu is indeed one of the places in the Philippines a traveler must not miss or you will surely miss a travel experience you might regret in your life.  Cebu is a very rich, vibrant, and diverse island. From interesting and world noted historical sites, world-famous beaches, and scuba diving experience, to exciting nature and mountain eco-adventures and a lot more.  

Some of our other travel videos from our many trips to the Philippines.

Copyright @2021 Cebu Top Tourist Attractions: In the New Normal

 

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Tuklasin ang Misteryo ng Chocolate Hills sa Bohol, Philippines

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Tuklasin ang Misteryo ng Chocolate Hills sa Bohol, Philippines

Chocolate Hills Bohol Philippines

 

Tuklasin ang Misteryo ng Chocolate Hills sa Bohol, Philippines – Halos lahat tayo nangangarap na makapag bakasyon o bumisita sa iba’t ibang parte ng mundo kahit sa isang pagkakataon lang sa ating buhay, pero ilan lang sa atin ang naabot ang pangarap na ito, sa nakararami, ito ay hanggang pangarap lang.

Ang Pilipinas ay hindi kasama sa mga tinatawag na “top tourist destinations” sa buong mundo, pero ito ay dahil lamang sa ito’y nadiskubre pagkatapos madiskubre ang ibang tourist destinations. Puno sa mga natural na kagandahan at likas na yaman, ang Pilipinas ay isang lugar na dapat niyong puntahan sa maraming kadahilanan.

Ang Pilipinas Bilang Isang Holiday Spot

 

Kilala sa magagandang dagat at malinamnam na mga prutas, ang Pilipinas ay pinangalanan batay sa pangalan ni Haring Philip II ng Espanya.  Ang pulo ng Pilipinas ay matatagpuan sa Timog-Silangang Asya, ito ay tahanan ng iba’t ibang uri ng halaman at hayop na sa pilipinas lang makikita, kaya naman ang pag lalakbay sa Pilipinas ay isa sa pinakamagandang karanasan sa isang manlalakbay.  Ang preskong kapaligiran, natatanging kultura, at magalang na mga tao, ang inyong kelangan kung gusto niyong magpahinga at magliwaliw saglit sa nakakapagod niyong buhay.

Hindi mabibilang ang mga magagandang lugar na pwedeng bisitahin sa Pilipinas, kagaya na lamang sa pamosong isla ng Boracay, na isa sa mga kabisera sa Pilipinas. Ang isla ng Boracay ay merong higit labin dalawang dalampasigan na perpekto para sa mga taong gustong magpahinga at mag enjoy ng mga water activities. At dahil ang Pilipinas ay mayroong 7,000 na pulo o isla, ang magiging pinaka mahirap na desisyon para sa isang manlalakbay ay kung saan ang unang lugar na pupuntahan.

 

Ang Banaue, isa rin sa mga lugar na magandang puntahan, ay may nakakaakit na Rice Terraces na hindi mo mapapalagpas na bisitahin kung ikaw ay pupunta dun.  Kung ikaw naman ay mahilig sa kasaysayan o pumunta sa mga makasaysayang lugar, ang Vigan na kung saan buhay na buhay ang mga makasaysayang tanawin, ay dapat kasama sa listahan ng mga dapat mong puntahan.  Meron ding mga nakakamangha na mga lungsod at isla gaya ng Maynila at Davao na parehong kakaiba at nakakaaliw na bisitahin. Ang Maynila o Manila, na parating buhay na buhay, ay puno ng mga aktibidad.  Maaari kang sumakay ng jeep, na siyang pangunahing sasakyan sa paglilibot sa lungsod.  Ang Davao naman, na isang pangulong lungsod, ay may halong urbano at natural na elemento.  Sa madaling salita, hindi lamang mga gusali at maraming tao ang iyong makikita sa Davao, makikita mo rin dito ang mga natural na likas na gaya ng Eden Nature Park, Philippine Eagle Center at ang Davao Baywalk sa lungsod na ito.

Ang Chocolate Hills sa Bohol Bilang Isang Destinasyon

 

Subalit, sa lahat ng ito, ang isla ng Bohol sa Pilipinas, ay marahil ang ang pinaka magandang destinasyon para mag bakasyon kahit naman lang isang beses sa iyong buhay.  Ang lugar na ito ay tahanan sa pinaka pamosong Chocolate Hills na nasa Carmen, Bohol, kung saan daang mala-tsokolateng burol ang nagbibigay ng maganda at kahangagangang tanawin, ito ay maihahalintulad sa maraming maliliit na bundok ng tsokolate, na nagkalat sa 50 kilometro kwadradong lupain. Ang likas na yamang ito ay dapat talagang pasyalan dahil ito’y kakatwa at ang tanawin ay talagang kahangahanga. Ito ay kilalang dinarayo ng mga turista sa Bohol na may layong 1-2 oras na biyahe mula Alona Beach.

Tungkol sa Chocolate Hills

 

Ang Chocolate Mountains ng Pilipinas ay isang pagbubuong heolohikal sa probinsya ng Bohol sa Pilipinas, at kahit sa ngayon, sa mga nagbabasa nito, ay marami ang nagtataka kung bakit ito ay popular at kung bakit ito’y pinangalanang “Chocolate Hills”.  Ang hindi pangkaraniwan at kakaiba sa mahiwagang maliliit na mga burol na ito ay kadalasang nababalot ng berdeng damo at nagiging mala tsokolate kapag tag-tuyo. Itong mala tsokolate at napakaraming burol ay mahigit isang libo ang bilang at nagkalat sa may lawak na 50 kilometro kwadrado sa lungsod ng Carmen, Batuan, at Sagbayan. Ang kakaibang burol na ito, kahit iba iba ang laki ay pare-pareho parin ang itsura.

 

Chocolate Hills Bilang Perpektong Shooting Site

 

Ang Chocolate Hills ay kilala bilang pinaka magandang lugar para sa hindi mabilang na mga dayuhan at mga lokal na pelikula at tele-serye. Dahil sa kilala at nakaka intrigang kasaysayan nito, magandang tanawin, at mala fairy-tale na senaryo, ang Chocolate Hills tour sa Bohol, ay ilang beses nang naipalabas sa telebisyon. Ang mga mahilig sa sine lalo na yung mga gawa ng mga dayuhan gaya sa mga South-East Asians, ay matutuwa na malaman na ang pelikulang Aguila, Puri, Loveboat, Esteban, Muro-Ami, at ang internasyunal na pelikulang Tigershark ay ginawa dito. Ang kagandahan ng lugar ang umaakit sa mga tao sa buong mundo maging sa eksplorasyon man o pag tampok sa yaman ng kalikasan sa kanilang documentaryo o pelikula.

 

Ang mga Lutuing Popular sa Chocolate Hills

 

Noong ika-20 siglo, ang mga lutong Pilipino o lutong pinoy ay nagsimulang makilala sa buong mundo. Puno ng mga natural na pampalasa, maipagmamayabang ang lasa ng lutong pinoy. Ngayon, ang pinaka uso at mabilis ang pag usbong ay ang pagkain naluluto sa bangketa o street food, ay matatagpuan din sa bansang ito kung saan ang mga putahe ay parehong masarap at masustansya. Ang mahilig sa pagkaing ganito ay dapat puntahan ang lugar na ito para masaksihan at maranasan ang kakaibang luto ng Adobo, Sinigang, Kare-kare at Letson.

 

Mga Alamat na Bumabalot sa Chocolate Hills

 

Ang Bohol Chocolate Hills ng Pilipinas ay minsa’y napabilang sa “8 Wonders of the World” dahil sa hindi matukoy na pinagmulan o pagkabuo ng mga burol. Maraming alamat ang nauugnay sa Chocolate Hills, na kinukwento ng mga Pilipino tungkol  sa pagkabuo ng burol. Ayon sa alamat, nabuo ang burol dahil sa pagtatalo ng dalawang higante na nagbatuhan ng malalaking bato at buhangin. Ang natira sa pagtatalo nila ay sa ngayong tinawag na Chocolate Hills. Isa pang alamat ang tungkol sa malungkot na higante na ang luha ang dahilan ng pagkabuo ng sikat na burol. Isa ring alamat ang nagsasabing ang burol ay galing sa mga tuyong dumi ng kalabaw.

 

Batay sa Siyentipikong Pagsasaliksik

 

Mahalaga parin ang aktwal na siyentipikong paliwanag sa pagkakabuo ng burol. Ang heolohikal na teorya sa pagkakabuo ng mahiwagang Chocolate hills ay resulta ng pagbabago ng panahon at pagkasira ng dagat apog o marine limestone. Ayon sa plaka na makikita sa viewing deck sa bayan ng Carmen, ang Chocolate Hills ay resulta ng pagkaagnas ng limestones o apog na umangat sa ibabaw ng lebel ng dagat at nabuo sa pamamagitan ng tectonic na mga proseso at napaibabaw sa tumigas na putik. Isa pang teorya ang nagsasabing ang burol ay coral reefs na nabuo mula sa pagsabog pagkatapos ng heolohical na pagkilos sa ilalim ng dagat. Kahit ano pa man ang dahilan ng pagkakabuo ng burol, ang kagandahan ng mga ito ay kaakit-akit at hindi dapat palampasin habang nagbabakasyon sa Pilipinas. 

 

Pinakamagandang panahon para bumisita sa Chocolate Hills

 

Karamihan sa atin ay kinikilala ang Chocolate Hills na magandang pasyalang lugar. Ang pinaka mainam na panahon para bisitahin ito ay tuwing tagtuyot. Ito ang panahon ng pagkatuyo ng mga damo at ang mga burol ay nagiging mala-tsokolate ang kulay. Ang panahong ito ay nagsisimula sa katapusan ng Nobyembre hanggang Mayo. Isa sa nagbibigay ganda sa bansang Pilipinas ay ang hindi mahulaang takbo ng panahon, mas mainam parin ang sumangguni sa payo ng ekperto tungkol sa ulat panahon bago maglakbay. Kapag nakarating na, merong dalawang lugar na pweding pagpilian para makita ang tunay na kagandahan ng Chocolate Hills.

 

  • Viewing Deck ng Chocolate Hills Complex

Ang Chocolate Hills komplex ay isa sa mga pangunahing destinasyon para makita ang tunay na kagandahan ng Chocolate Hills. Ito ay matatagpuan sa Barangay Buenos Aires, Carmen, Bohol. Ang Chocolate Hills komplex ay binubuo ng dalawang chocolate hills na isinaayos ilang taon na ang nakalilipas. Binago ito at ginawang complex na mayroong sementong daanan papunta sa taas na may activity area, na kung saan makikita ang swimming pools at mga restawran na mayroong nakasisilaw at matataas na pine trees para magbigay lilim sa daanan. Mayroon din itong mga paupahang kwarto na abot kaya ang presyo sa mga gustong mag overnight sa sentro ng burol. Dahil sa mataas na altitude, maeenjoy ninyo ang kagandahan ng paglubog ng araw at mga burol sa observation decks.

 

  • Sagbayan Peak

Ang Sagbayan Peak ay isa sa mga lugar kung saan makikita ang kagandahan ng mga burol. Ito ay isang mountain resort at recreational center na matatagpuan sa bayan ng Sagbayan na hindi lang makikita ang kamangha-manghang 360-degree na tanawin ng mga burol kundi maging ang kakaibang bughaw na dagat na nag hihiwalay sa isla ng Bohol at Cebu.

 

Mga Dapat Gawin sa may Chocolate Hills

 

  • Galugarin ang Chocolate Hills Adventure Park

 

Kung gusto mong dalhin sa mas nakakaaliw na lebel ang pagbisita sa Chocolate Hills, bisitahin ang Chocolate Hills Adventure Park.  Ito ay isang eco-tourism park, na matatagpuan sa Barangay ng Buenos Aires sa Carmen.  Pag ika’y pumunta dito, huwag mong palalagpasin ang maka pag bike at surf sa zipline. Itong Chocolate Hills adventure na ito ay tiyak na makapgbibigay sayo ng bugso ng adrenaline.  Mayroon namang iba pang mga pasilidad at mga pweding gawin dito gaya ng mga rope courses o pakikipagsapalaran gamit ang lubid, wave runner, na kung saan makakapaglakad ka sa umaagyog na nakabiting kahoy o lubid, at makakakita din kayo dito ng iba’t ibang klase ng paru-paru at mayamang uri ng halaman at hayop na matatagpuan sa “Ang Paru Paro” na isang hardin.


  • Sumakay sa maaksiyong Chocolate Hills ATV

 

Ang mga nature lovers ay tiyak na mageenjoy sa Chocolate Hills dahil maaring mag libot at pumasyal habang nakasakay sa isang ATV.  Habang patungo sa Chocolate Hills sa Carmen, madadaanan ng mga manlalakbay ang kaakit-akit na Bilar manmade forest o gawang-taong gubat, na mas nakapadagdag sa kakaiba at nakakamanghang paglalakbay na ito.  Ito ay popular na hinihintuan ng manlalakbay para mag photoshoot dahil makikita dito ang matataas, puti at pulang mga puno ng mahogany.  Ang gubat na ito ay matatagpuan sa hangganan na napapagitnaan ng Loboc at Bilar.

 

Ang mga manlalakbay na dumaraan sa gubat na ito ay mararanasan ang pag bugso ng masarap na temperatura at malamig na simoy ng hangin, ito ay dahil ang matataas na puno ay humaharang sa sikat ng araw.

 

Maliban sa Chocolate Hills, ang Bohol ay kilala dahil sa kanilang hayop na may malalaking mata, ang mga Tarsiers. Ang mga tarsiers ay mga hayop na aktibo sa gabi, ito ay kasinlaki ng kamay ng tao at napaka sensitibo sa tunog. Hindi magiging kompleto ang bakasyon o paglalakbay mo sa Bohol kung hindi mo makikita ang maliit na hayop na ito.  Kaya habang nasa Chocolate Hills ka, bisitahin ang sanktuaryo ng mga tarsier at gawing sulit ang iyong pamamasyal.

 

Ang Chocolate Hills ay Isang “must-visit” ng mga-

Mahilig mamasyal

 

Para sa mga mahilig sa paglalakbay, kung saan nasa dugo at kaluluwa na nila ang kagustuhang maranasan at masaksihan ang ganda ng mga natural na likas sa yaman sa mundo, ay dapat talagang bisitahin ang Chocolate Hills.  Ang nakakamanghang lugar na ito ay tiyak na uukit sa iyong puso magpakailan man.

 

Manunulat

Para sa mga mahilig sumulat at kumuha ng inspirasyon sa kalikasan, ang lugar na ito ay hindi lamang magbibigay sayo ng sandaling makakapagsabi ka ng “Aha!”, ngunit dahil din sa mga misteryosong alamat, nakakamanghang kwento, at komplikadong heolohikal na pagkakabuo, ay maka pagbibigay ng nakakaenganyong kwento, o maari ding maka pagbigay ng mga ideya at pundasyon para sa iyong mga sulatin.

 

Para sa mahilig sa mga adventurous trekking

Ang Chocolate Hills ay isa sa mga pinakamagandang lokasyon sa pag tetreking at iba pang mga adventures sa Pilipinas.  Ang lugar na ito  ay puno ng mga likas na halaman at mga hayop pati na rin mga talon, na talaga namang kaakit-akit. Ngunit walang grupo ng mga nagtitrekk ang regular dito kaya siguraduhing munang magpalista kasama sila.

Ang Chocolate Hills – Isang Natatanging Lugar para sa Honeymoon

Sa mga magsing-irog na gusto ng kakaibang honeymoon, ito ang perpektong lugar para dito. Ang Chocolate Hills, maliban sa pagiging kamangha-mangha ay mayroon ding mga kweba at batis sa patag nito na mahohook ka sa kagandahan nito.  Ang parteng ito ng burol, ay ang pinaka magandang lokasyon kung saan mabubuo ang mga magagandang alaala at kahanga-hangang karanasan

 

Mga Kailangang dalhin bago bumisita sa Chocolate Hills:

  • Komportable at cotton na damit
  • Magaang bag o luggage
  • Insect-repellent 
  • Magaan na sidlanan
  • Kamera na maganda ang kondisyon para makakuha ng litrato ng kaaya-ayang tanawin

 

Kaya naman, ang Chocolate Hills na isa sa pinagmamalaki ng Pilipinas, ay hindi lamang nakapagbibigay ng adventure, kundi ito rin ay magandang lugar para sa mahilig sa natural na likas na yaman at mga mag sing-irog.

Konklusyon

Kahit marami ang agam-agam, mga alamat at hindi maipaliwanag na pagkakabuo o pinagmulan ng mahiwagang Chocolate hills, hindi maikukubli ang katotohanan na hindi lang ito mala-himalang kababalaghan kundi isang magandang tanawin at napaka sulit na bisitahin kahit isang beses lang sa ating buhay. Ang karanasan dito ay hindi mapapantayan. Bukod sa tanawin, marami pang mga aktibidad ang pwede mong gawin. Sa pamamagitan ng pag-bisita sa mga lugar tulad ng Chocolate Hills ay matutuklasan mo ang kagandahan at kababalaghan sa natural nitong anyo. 

Welcome to Bohol, Philippines

 


Tuklasin ang Misteryo ng Chocolate Hills sa Bohol, Philippines @ Copyright 2021 ExploreTraveler 2021  

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Unraveling The Mystery Behind The Famed Chocolate Hills In Bohol, Philippines

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Vacationing at different places of the world has been everybody’s dream at least once in a lifetime and only some of us are able to fulfill and live up to this dream. Although the Philippines is not among the top tourist destinations, it is only because it got its recognition later compared to the rest of the world. Replete with natural beauty and sightseeing areas, the Philippines is an exceptional experience and must be on your Bucket List for various reasons.

The Philippines As An Ideal Holiday Spot

Known for its beautiful beaches and delicious fruits, the Philippines was named after King Philip II of Spain. These collective islands are located in South East Asia and are home to various kinds of flora and fauna. Traveling to a place like the Philippines can be one of the best experiences one could get. A refreshing atmosphere, unique culture, and polite people might just be what you need if you are looking to get away from your tedious life for a while.

There are countless places to spend your time in the Philippines such as the famous Boracay, which is also considered as the capital of the Philippines. This particular place has more than 12 beaches and is perfect for someone who wants to just relax and experience water activities. Since the Philippines has more than 7000 islands, the most difficult decision a traveler has to make is to figure out which island to visit first.

Banaue, for instance, has strikingly beautiful rice terraces which just cannot go amiss once you are there. If history pleases you or you don’t mind spending time at a historic place, then the historical city of Vigan should be on your checklist. There are other stupendous cities and islands in the Philippines that are equally exotic and exhilarating such as Manila or Davao city. Manila, which is a vibrant city is always full of activities. You can roam around the city in jeepneys, which are the main form of public transport there. Davao, a metropolitan city, is a pleasant blend of urban as well as natural elements. In short, the city not only features malls and a large population, but is also home to nature reserves like the Eden Nature Park, Philippine Eagle Center, and the Davao Baywalk along the sea.

Chocolate Hills in Bohol As Your Destination

However, of all these, the island of Bohol in the Philippines, is perhaps, the best holiday destination that one should visit at least once in a lifetime. The place is home to one of the most famous Chocolate Hills in Carmen where hundreds of brown hills create an interesting scenic view, looking like little mountains of chocolates scattered within 50 kilometers square area. These natural wonders are worth paying a visit and seem surreal; their landscape being very impressive. It is the popular tourist spot of Bohol and is a 1-2 hour drive from Alona Beach. If you are from another country and planning a drive in the Philippines then you need to get an International Driver’s Permit. 

About Chocolate Hills

To begin with, the Chocolate Mountains in the Philippines are a geological formation in the Bohol province of the Philippines and by now, most people reading this are probably wondering what makes these hills so popular and what is with the name. So the unusually peculiar thing about these majestic hills is that the hills which are usually covered in green grass turn chocolaty in color during dry seasons. These chocolaty and magnanimous hills are more than a thousand in number and are spread over an area of 50 square kilometers in the towns of Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan. The strange thing about these hills is despite the difference in their sizes when looked from afar, these hills look symmetrical nevertheless.

Chocolate Hills as a perfect shooting site

Chocolate Hills are reputed for being the best location for innumerable foreign and national films and television series. Due to its well-known and intriguing history, picturesque views, and fairytale like backdrop, the Chocolate Hills tour, Bohol, has been on television quite a few times. Cinephiles who revel in foreign films, especially South-East Asian ones, would be happy to know that films such as Aguila, Puri, Loveboat, Esteban, Muro-Ami, and international film Tigershark have been shot here. It’s the beauty of this spot that attracts people from across the world either for exploration or to feature this natural wonder in their documentaries or films.

Cuisines popular around the Chocolate Hills

By the end of the 20th century, the cuisine of the Filipinos started getting known all around the world. Filled with authentic spices, it boasts of unique flavors. Today, one of the fastest booming street food markets is found in this country, and the diet includes dishes that are both palatable and healthy. Foodies must travel to this country at least once to experience the authentic cuisine which includes dishes such as Adobo, Sinigig, Kare-Kare, and Lechon.

Myths surrounding the Chocolate Hills

The Bohol Chocolate Hills, Philippines, is also sometimes considered as the eighth wonder of the world, obviously because of the unknown origin of these hills. So there are many myths associated with Chocolate Hills, Filipinos commonly speak of, which revolves around the formation of these hills. As per legends, these glorious hills have formed due to two feuding giants who pitched rocks, boulders, and sand at each other. All that was left after this feud was what we call Chocolate Hills today. Another legend talks about a heartbroken giant, whose tears led to the formation of these famous hills. Another myth says the hills are the dried feces of carabaos.

A Scientific Glance

What matters, although is the actual scientific explanation behind the formation of these hills. So the geological theory behind the formation of these phenomenal Chocolate Hills is that these hills were the result of the weathering of marine limestone. Further, according to a plaque exhibited at a viewing deck in the town of Carmen, these Chocolate Hills were a result of erosion of limestones which were uplifted above the sea level and were fractured due to tectonic processes and rests atop the hardened clay. Another theory suggests that the hills were coral reefs that erupted after a geological shift beneath the waters. So, irrespective of how these hills were formed, the fact is that the picturesque beauty of these hills is a major attraction and shouldn’t be missed while vacationing in the Philippines. 

Best time to visit the Chocolate Hills

Most of us by now have at least acknowledged the Chocolate Hills as a spot for vacationing. So, the ideal time to visit the hills is during the dry season. It is when the grass begins to dry up making the hills look chocolaty in color. The season, therefore, begins in late November and lasts until May. But since the beauty of the Philippines lies in the unpredictability of its weather, it is better to get the weather updates before you begin your journey. Once you get there, there are two significant spots that should be considered to get the best view of Chocolate Hills.

  • Viewing deck of the Chocolate Hills complex

    The Chocolate Hills complex is the main destination to get the best view of the Chocolate Hills. Located in Barangay, Buenos Aires, Carmen, Bohol, the Chocolate Hills complex is comprised of two chocolate hills which were developed years ago and were transformed into a complex with a cemented road that goes upward towards an activity area that includes swimming pools and restaurants with dazzling tall pine trees to shade the pathway. There are further rooms available at affordable prices for those who wish to stay overnight at the center of the Chocolate Hills. Given its high altitude, one can enjoy beautiful sunsets from the observation decks at the Chocolate Hills.

  • Sagbayan Peak


    The Sagbayan Peak is another spot for the best view of these hills. It is a mountain resort and recreation center located in the town of Sagbayan that not only offers an astounding 360-degree view of the famed Chocolate Hills but also the distinct blue sea that separates the island of Bohol from the island of Cebu.

Things to do at the Chocolate Hills

 

  • Explore Chocolate Hills Adventure Park

You can take this exhilarating Chocolate Hills experience to the next level by visiting the adventure park. This is an eco-tourism park, located at Barangay Buenos Aires, Carmen.  Once you are here, the biking midair or bike zip or the surf zipline is something you just cannot miss. This Chocolate Hills adventure is sure to give you an adrenaline rush. There are also several other facilities and activities available here such as the rope courses, wave runner and one can even spot several kinds of butterflies here and the rich flora and fauna in the “Ang Paru Paro”, butterfly garden.

  • Ride The Action-packed Chocolate Hills ATV rentals

Nature lovers are in for a treat at the Chocolate Hills because one can hit the trails by riding an ATV and get the best out of this trip. On their way to the Chocolate Hills, Carmen, travelers are bound to pass the captivating Bilar manmade forest, which adds a completely unique and mesmerizing touch to the whole adventure. It is a popular pit stop where one finds tall, white and red, Mahogany trees and people usually stop here for photoshoots. The manmade forest is situated on the borders of Loboc and Bilar.

Travelers passing through this forest will experience a sudden and pleasant change in the temperature where they are greeted with a cool breeze as the tall and dense trees here block the sun entirely.

Apart from Chocolate Hills, Bohol is also known for its big-eyed mammals, the Tarsiers. These are nocturnal creatures about the size of a human hand and are extremely sensitive to sound. No adventure in Bohol is complete without seeing these small creatures. So while you are around Chocolate Hills, you might as well visit a tarsier sanctuary and make the most out of your adventure.

The Chocolate Hills are a must-visit for-

 

The Wanderlust

For the ones who love traveling and it is in their blood and soul to experience every natural marvel on earth; they must visit the Chocolate Hills. The breathtaking site will blow your mind away and will be forever inscribed in your hearts.

The Writers

For those who love to play with the words and love to take inspiration from nature, this place will not only gift you the Aha! Moment, but its mysterious legends, fascinating stories, and its perplexing geological existence can provide interesting plots to your stories, or can also give you ideas and foundations for your writings.

For the Adventurous Trekkers

Chocolate Hills is one of the best locations for trekking and other such adventures in Philippines. The place is replete with flora and fauna with the backdrop of small waterfalls, which are a treat for the eyes. There is no dearth of good trekking groups that conduct regular treks here so make sure you pre-register with them.

The Chocolate Hills- A Unique Place for Honeymoon

For couples who want an offbeat destination for their honeymoon; this is the perfect place to be at. The Chocolate Hills apart from being magnificent also have many caves and springs on its plains that will keep you hooked to this beauty. These spots are the best locations for capturing a lot of memories and impressive experiences.

 Things to prepare for, before going to the Chocolate Hills:

  • Comfortable, cotton clothing
  • Light luggage
  • Insect-repellent
  • Light-weight bottles
  • A good conditioned camera to catch the picturesque landscapes.

So Chocolate Hills, the pride of the Philippines, not only features unlimited adventurous activities but is also a great spot for nature lovers and couples alike.

Conclusion

Therefore, despite the unknown origin and several myths and legends about the majestic Chocolate Hills, one needs to admit the simple fact that these hills are not just miraculously phenomenal, but are as scenic and worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. The experience can be exemplary and truly awesome. Besides, there are several other fun activities one can indulge in once here. So traveling to places like the Chocolate Hills will let you explore the natural wonders in their best forms.

Pangingisda Sa Pilipinas

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Pangingisda Sa Pilipinas

Tingnan Ang Iyong Bawat Hakbang Sa Daungang Gawa Sa Lumang Kawayan

Pangingisda Sa Taas ng Dagat

Ang pangingisda sa Pilipinas, ay katulad sa walang katapusang paghahabulan ng pusa at daga, ay isa sa paraan ng pamumuhay sa Pilipinas. Sa mainit at maalinsangan hapon, ang mga mangingisda ay naghahanda sa kanilang mga bangka para sa gabing pangingisda. Ang tahimik na nayon ay nabubuhay na ka kagaya ng mga bloke ng yelo isinasakay sa kahoy na bangka. Minsan ay mas lalong nahihirapan ang mga mangingisda , na maaring tumaob ang Bangka sa dulo ng pinaka lumang daungan ng bangkang gawa sa kawayan. Ang mga daungang ito ay ginagamit pa rin ng mga bhasang mangingisda na ginagamit ito n g may pag-aalaga. Walang lugar dito ang pag-kakamali! Ang pangingisda ay ang pangunahing ikinabubuhay dito kaya ang ganitong daungan ay simpleng problema lamang sa kanila. Sa pag dating ng gabi ang mga bangkang gawa sa kahoy ay ilalagay na sa karagatan….patungo sa gawi na kung nasaan ang maraming mga isda.

Ang bangka ay may kawayan na batangan upang mabigyan sila ng matatag na sasakyan sa magaspang na tubig ng dagat. Ang bangka na ginagamit sa pangingisda ay karaniwang hindi hihigit sa 30 talampakan ang haba. Ang mga maliliit na bangkang pangisda ay  gumana sa bahurang panahon ng mainit na gabi. Ang mga mangingisdang ito ay pa tungo sa mayamang bahura sa China Sea. Dito ay umaasa silang makahuli ng blue marlin, red grouper, yello-fin na tuna,at mga ulang ilan lamang itong uri ng pagkaing dagat ang maari nilang mahuli sa lugar. Maraming uri ng isda ang naninirahan sa bahurang ito. Ang pangingisda sa bahurang ito ay ang ikinabubuhay ng mga mangingusda sa Pilipinas. Ang ganitng bahura ay isang mala langit na lugar para sa mga tao na ang pinagkakakitaan ay ang dagat.

Sa panahon kung saan madalas na may mga Internasyunal na alitan at internasyonal na pagaagawan sa bahura, ang mga mangingisda ay laging nasa harap ng linya. Maraming mga araw na ang kanilang nadadalang isda sa kanilang daongan ay pa unti ng pa unti. Ang pangingisda ay isang paraan ng kanilang pinamumuhay at ang isda ay ang pangunahing pinagkukunan ng protinang kinakain sa Pilipinas. Kaya henerasyon pagkatapos ng henerasyon ng mangingisda ang gumawa ng kanilang mga paraan ng pangingisda sa dagat sa bawat gabi. Ang kanilang pag-asa ……. ang maka hatak ng maraming isda hangga’t kaya nila.

Pangingisda ay ang pangunahing pinagkukunan ng kita para sa marami sa mga maliliit na nayon. Pagsasaka ng palay din ay isa sa mga pangunahing napagkukunan kada segundo. Wala silang iba pang mga industriya upang asahan. Ikaw ay kung hindi man magbubukid tiyak na isang mangingsida. Kung ikaw ay anak ng isang mangingisda …… tiyak na ikaw ay mangingisda. Kung ang iyong ama naman ay isang magsasaka … .ikaw ay isang magsasaka. Kaya sa baba ng baybayin ng dagat may komunidad na naghihintay sa bawat umaga, upang makita ang bangkang pangisda na bumalik sa daungan. Sila ay nangisda buong magdamag kaya umaasang meron silang huling maraming mackerel o di kaya ay pugita.

Pababa sa daungan sa maliit na nayon ng mga mangingisda ay mga asawa ng mga mangingisda na naghintay buong magdamag at ngayon ay naghahanap kung nasaan na ang kanilang mga asawa at umuwi na sa kanilang mga tahanan. Ito marahil ay tahimik na nayon, ngunit ang mga ito ay mga gising kapag sila ay tinatawag na…… ang bangkang pangisda ay dumadating na! Ang mga pamilya ng mangingisda ay isang kaponan, na kung saan ang mga kababaihang asawa ng ga angingisda ay tinatahi ang kanilang mga lambat na nasira ng nagdaang pangingisda sa gabi. Ang mga bangka ay isang beses muling dadaong sa mga maliit na daungang kawayan, ang mga isda ay inilalagak at binibenta. Ang restawrant at palengke ang higit na nananabik na makuha ang kanilang parte, sa huli kada araw. Ang isda ay kinakain ng karamihan ng mga lokal na populasyon. Magandang at sariwang isda ay nararapat, kung nais mong upang manatili sa negosyo.

Ang mga anak na lalaki ang naglilinis ng bangka para sa susunod na gabi at ang mangingisda ay umuuwi na sa kanilang tahanan upang matulog. Di lang magtatagal ay mangingisda uli ang mga mangingisda. Ito ang buhay ng isang nayon ng mga mangingisda sa Pilipinas.

Ang ExploreTraveler ay naglilikha ng mga artikulo sa paglalakbay, mga libro, mga video, at mga podcast para sa ilang taon na ngayon. Ito ay ang aming layunin upang dalhin ang aming mas lumang mga materyales para sa iba upang tamasahin ditto, at upang lumikha ng mga bagong materyal dito pati na rin. Inaanyayahan ka naming i-click ang aming mga link sa mga orihinal na nilalaman, at upang sundan din kami doon.

Ang post na ito ay orihinal nai-publish sa Marso 23, 2015 sa:

Fishing in the Philippines

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Exploring Mount Nebo

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View from Mt Nebo Israel

                  Mount Nebo Adventure

“The Promised Land” as Seen by ‪Moses on the top of Mount ‪Nebo in‪ Jordan is breathtaking. Mount Nebo is over 3,000 feet high and is just NW of Madaba across from the Northernmost part of the Dead Sea. According to ancient tradition, it was from Mount Nebo that Moses looked out over “The Promised Land” before he died. We have the account of this experience recorded for us in the 34th chapter of the Book of Deuteronomy in the Hebrew Scriptures.

“Then Moses climbed Mount Nebo from the plains of Moab to the top of Pisgah, across from Jericho. There the Lord showed him the whole land… Then the Lord said to him, “This is the land I promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob when I said, ‘I will give it to your descendants.’ I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it.”

“And Moses the servant of the Lord died there in Moab, as the Lord had said. He buried him in Moab, in the valley opposite Beth Peor, but to this day no one knows where his grave is.” Deuteronomy 34:1-6

Mount Nebo is an important site for Jews, Arabs, and Christians. Many visitors and pilgrims come to Jordan to visit this famous mountain in the land of Moab. Many Christians include this area in their pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

The site is owned and cared for by the Franciscan Order of the Roman Catholic Church. They have discovered many treasures from an earlier church on the site. They have found, not only significant remains of the early Byzantine Church itself but many magnificent Byzantine mosaics. At the current time, a small simple structure has been built over these remains to protect them. The site is dedicated to Moses.

              As Far As The Eye Can See

As for as, the eye can see is the Holy Land as seen from Mount Nebo. It is amazing! Think about looking out over the side of Mount Nebo and seeing across the Holy Land and beyond. You literally see all of the Holy Land and even beyond its borders. Looking toward the north is the valley of the River Jordan. The West Bank and the city of Jericho can usually be seen from the summit. Also on a clear day, you can see the City of Jerusalem. What a magnificent view! What is the History of this astonishing view? Why is Mount Nebo so special? Come along with us as we explore the history of Jordan’s Mount Nebo.

In exploring the writings of the Fourth Century, we meet a Pilgrim Nun named Egeria. In her writings, she shares about a Sanctuary built on Mount Nebo to honor Moses. It is thought that this church was built on the site of an earlier sanctuary. This church was completed in the year 394. This large church had three apses or semicircles on the Eastside. The altar was located in the apses with arches and a domed roof. Two funeral chapels completed the building. One was on the Northside and the other on the South side. What a magnificent building it must have been!

During the Sixth Century, we see even more change and excitement for this small church. The church was enlarged and then made into a Basilica. The Basilica was completed with a sacristy and new baptistery. There are many surviving floor mosaics that date from c.530 AD. The mosaics are beautiful! Soon after, a large monastery was built and a pilgrimage center. This was a thriving Basilica and Monastery for over six centuries. The Pilgrimage Center was constantly in use. Many Muslims visit the Memorial Church of Moses each year. Moses is considered a prophet to Christians, Muslims, and Jews alike. Many pilgrimages continue to this day.

This outstanding site was mostly abandoned by 1564. It remained highly neglected for many centuries. It was purchased by the Franciscan Order in 1993. The site was then excavated and restored. The modern additions to the excavated church have been very simple. They are little more than a basic shelter that protects the excavations and ancient mosaic floors.

On March 19, 2000, Pope John Paul II was its first distinguished visitor. He came to the chapel during his pilgrimage to the Holy Land. While he was there he planted an Olive Tree next to the Benzidine Chapel For Peace.

Today, Mount Nebo is an active Franciscan Monastery. The Franciscan Archaeological Institute also has its headquarters within the Monastery. This is a special stop for both visitors and pilgrims. Many come every year to walk in the steps of Moses.

       The Great Rock On Mount Nebo

The Great Stone on Mount ‪Nebo is believed to be from the Tomb of Jesus. It stands today‬ as a memorial to ‪Moses. During recent years, the rock has been measured and found to fit the tomb exactly. The tomb also has the original stop for the rock when moved into place. Today it stands on the very spot that it is thought that Moses stood to look at the “Promised Land.” What a spectacular view!

           Brazen  Serpent Monument

A serpentine cross sculpture stands at the top of the Mountain. This was the creation of Italian artist Giovanni Fantoni.  This monument is symbolic of the bronze serpent that was created by Moses in the wilderness. The words of Jesus in John 3:14 appear on the Monument.

“As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up.”

The story of the bronze serpent is found in the Hebrew Bible in Numbers 21:4-9. The cross symbolizes the Cross on which Jesus was crucified. The words are recorded in the New Testament Scriptures in John 3:14.

               The Ancient Baptistery

As you enter the Memorial Church of Moses on Mount Nebo, keep to the left for a magnificent surprise. You will see the excavated Baptistery complete with the most spectacular mosaics ever excavated. These magnificent mosaics can be skillfully dated to August 531, thanks to an inscription in Greek. It also lists the three workers on this project and the Bishop at the time it was built. The Bishop listed was Bishop Elias.

These amazing pristine mosaics were preserved in part, due to a second Baptistery that was laid over the top of the ancient Baptistery in 597. These spectacular mosaics remained undiscovered for over 1400 years. It was not until the excavation in 1976 that the first mosaic was found. It was restored and hangs on a wall.

These mosaics were very large squares that were divided into 4 real-life strips. These strips contained scenes of men and animals depicting a way of life. Each had a nice border. The top two sections depict extreme hunting scenes. The first scene shows a humble shepherd fighting a lion and the second a soldier in a fierce fight with a lioness. The other scene shows two horseback hunters engaged in a fight with a bear and a wild boar. All four of these mosaics show the precise detail of the artist.

The bottom scenes are very pastoral and calming. The first shows a shepherd watching after his sheep and goats while under the cover of a tree. The second depicts a darker-skinned man leading an Ostrich on a leash. Another scene shows a young boy with a Zebra on a leash. The final scene shows a large spotted animal that looks much like a camel, though it could also be a zebra.

There are many more mosaics hanging in the central section of the church and on the side aisles. There are many pieces of the almost 600 tiles that made up the magnificent mosaic pavement. One of the most outstanding and oldest mosaics is a braided cross that is displayed on the south wall. There are also many mosaics taken from the Church of George in Mukhiya. These mosaics have a very old Arabic script, though it is not yet clear which one or how old.

To one side of the Baptistry hangs an extraordinary mosaic cross. The cross was excavated from the original Fourth Century Church and now hangs on the new modern altar. Next to the altar is a photograph of the Pope praying at this modern altar. The cross is shown in the background.

                  Theotokos Chapel

As you prepare to exit the Memorial Church of Moses there is a simple chapel over three of the rooms of the old Monastery. In the semi-circles on the East side of the church is a mosaic of a square object that may be a vessel used for the Eucharist or maybe an altar canopy. The mosaic also features many bulls and gazelles. The floor of the chapel is laid with many original mosaics of plants and animals of the time period. All these shed light on what life was like during the fourth to the seventh centuries.

             The Ancient Monastery

On the highest section of Mount Nebo, Syagha were found the complete remains of an ancient Byzantine church and the original monastery. These were found in the excavation of 1933. The walls of this ancient monastery can be seen as you exit and go outside.

Today the work of excavation continues as visitors and monks work and pray hand in hand. Morning and evening there is prayer in the monastery and all workers who desire are welcome to join. There are simple accommodations for a few workers at a time. During the day the many workers continue to locate the new treasure and categorize the previous treasure found. The work is exacting but many hands make the labor easier. There is an atmosphere of prayer and meditation as they work. Today’s life on Mount Nebo is guided by a principle of simplicity and hard work.

               Caves on Mount Nebo

The Mount Nebo Mountain Range is home to many caves. Some of these caves are shallow and open and others are deep and closed off. One of the deepest mysteries of Mount Nebo is the whereabouts of the Ark of the Covenant. According to the ancient Hebrew writings of the Maccabees, it was hidden in a cave on Mount Pisgah, the highest peak in the Mount Nebo Mountain Range. According to Second Maccabees, Jeremiah carried the tent, the ark, and the incense altar into a cave on Mount Pisgah and then sealed the opening. The account in Second Maccabees reads as follows:

 2 Maccabees 2:4-8

4″ These same records also tell us that Jeremiah, acting under divine guidance, commanded the Tent of the Lord’s Presence and the Covenant Box to follow him to the mountain where Moses had looked down on the land which God had promised our people. 5 When Jeremiah got to the mountain, he found a huge cave, and there he hid the Tent of the Lord’s Presence, the Covenant Box, and the altar of incense. Then he sealed up the entrance.

6 Some of Jeremiah’s friends tried to follow him and mark the way, but they could not find the cave. 7 When Jeremiah learned what they had done, he reprimanded them, saying,

No one must know about this place until God gathers his people together again and shows them mercy. 8 At that time he will reveal where these things are hidden, and the dazzling light of his presence will be seen in the cloud, as it was in the time of Moses and on the occasion when Solomon prayed that the Temple might be dedicated in holy splendor.”

Whatever your belief about the Ark of the Covenant, one thing is for certain, it is one of the possible mysteries of the Mount Nebo Mountain Range. Archaeologist Crotser, in the fall of 1981, is said to have found the ark and took pictures. No one has dared to touch it. They all remember what happened in the days of old when someone dared to touch this unique golden box. So for now, it still remains one of the mysteries of Mount Nebo in Jordan.

If you are looking for adventure, then consider Mount Nebo. Go beyond the Memorial Church of Moses and climb the beautiful mountain range. Explore all the ruins and treasures. Find the answer to many questions by spending time exploring the wonderful mosaics of the original baptistry. Grab your passport and pack your backpack. Get the necessary permissions if you want to hike the mountain range. A Jordan adventure is waiting in the Mount Nebo Mountain Range.

ExploreTraveler.com

Mount Nebo

Mt Nebo

Mt Nebo Israel

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The Tepe Sialk Ziggurat In Iran

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The Tepe Sialk Ziggurat Of The 

Siyalk Culture

Tepe Sialk Ziggurat

Image from nl.wikipedia.org

There are times when I begin to plan our travels based on my interests and the type of history I might find. My writings and research and normally centered around ancient sites and the Tepe Sialk Ziggurat is one of those lesser-known sites due to its location being in Iran. Now one may or may not have difficulty getting there depending on where they are from and the passport they carry. We may not be able to get there today but wanted to shed some light on this location so others may be able to visit even if we cannot today. I recently looked at this site up again and found there to be much more available, and the current anthropologists in Iran to be continuing to write papers on their findings there. I’m going to be adding some additional information here along with photographs of some of the pottery they have found.

The Tepe Sialk ziggurat is found today in present-day Iran, but the area is known to be the earliest culture in Iran, and the Siyalk culture found in the north-central part of that land at Tepe Siyalk near Kashan and Chashmah Ali near Teheran. The Siyalk culture is the earliest known culture of the pre-Halaf cultures of northern Mesopotamia and Syria. It must be mentioned that to the south you had the Sumerians of southern Mesopotamia. With these cultures so close together and possibly connected since there are similar construction methods between the two cultures. (Ghirshman 1935)

The area around this site has been dated back to 7500 BC and the temple base structure has been preliminarily dated to around 3000 BC. However, the dating of this structure is not fully accepted due to the additional need for additional data and dating using different methods. The structure of the Tepe Sialk structure or (ziggurat) is very similar to the more recent structures built in southern Mesopotamia. The main difference is that this structure does not use steps and instead uses a ramp that one walks to the top where the temple structure would be for religious ceremonies. (Potts 2009)

The monument’s purpose of the structure is to one serve as a central structure which the people use as a central place of religious activities, and assuming the similarities to other cultures of the region would have also stored excess grain from the area’s surplus. A religious class of people would have taken care of the temple, and there would have been a form of centralized government. We don’t have enough information to assume a king or royal class ruled this early city but there were different types of skilled workers. Evidence of highly developed pottery and the use of mud brick technologies is visible from the earliest excavations.

Archaeological work conducted here is limited but two researchers stand out. Roman Ghirshman excavated the site in the 1930s with a commission from France. His work is currently available in French and I believe some of the most detailed available information on the site before it began to be pillaged. Iranian researcher S. M. Shahmirzadi been studying the site and has proposed to consider this site a ziggurat dating to the Proto-Elamite Layer IV. This date is based on pottery uncovered in the debris around the monument. His work has begun to develop an Iranian team of anthropologists who might also be able to continue work on the site. (Ghirshman 1935; Potts 2009)

The reason I have chosen this site has to do with the following. Anthropology and archaeology are fields for the acquisition of our human past, and I am an individual who picks up on discrepancies quickly and enjoys looking for the additional pieces of the puzzle to better understand areas where there is a lack of understanding our hypothesis that is outdated and needs to be re-looked at. This particular site throws several changes into the timelines of the ziggurat builders and gives us at a minimum across a cultural exchange of ideas almost one thousand years earlier. Unfortunately, the site is also not fully excavated and honestly needs an international team to develop and to help the Iranians fully categorize the tremendous amounts of material and artifacts that would be found if done. I suspect that these peoples were connected to the Sumerians of southern Mesopotamia and they may have to join ancestors or directly connected by lineage. With western civilization a tremendous amount of connections to this area I am hopeful the area will be fully studied one day.

 

 

References Cited

 

 

Ghirshman, R.

1935  Rapport Préliminaire, Sur Les Fouilles De Tépé Sialk, Près De Kashan (Iran). Syria, vol. 16, no. 3, 1935, pp. 229–246.

McCown, Donald E.

1942 The Material Culture of Early Iran. Journal of Near Eastern Studies, vol. 1, no. 4, pp. 424–449.

 

Potts, Daniel.

2009  Bevel-Rim Bowls and Bakeries: Evidence and Explanations from Iran and the Indo-Iranian Borderlands. Journal of Cuneiform Studies, vol. 61,  pp. 1–23.

Nipa Huts in Philippines: Traditional Filipino Rural Living

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Traditional Nipa Huts in the Philippines

Nipa Huts are a living symbol of rural life in the Philippines.  It is the home of yesterday that has changed and survived even until today. Nipa Huts or Bahay Kubos are an icon of Philippine rural living. They are built differently in different areas, according to the conditions and circumstances of the area. Nipa Huts are a living Pilipino icon.

There is no real definition of how a Nipa Hut is made, but there are several things that most have in common. The conditions in the Philippine lowlands have led to some basic similarities. Most of these huts are built-in three layers. Depending on whether they are in or near water. Most Nipa huts are built on stilts. Since most of the island has water to deal with, usually the bottom part of the hut allows the water to freely go under the hut.  This is true especially near the coast and in boggy areas. There are a few exceptions to this rule in modern times, but it is followed even today in most areas. Only some of the materials have changed. Today, often the stilts are simple concrete cinder blocks rather than the traditional hardwood. Regardless of the materials used, the benefit to this style is protection from floods, and also it keeps small animals out of the living area, such as rats.

Above the stilts is the living area or the tagalong. This area is accessed by a ladder. It is built open and is well ventilated to help keep the home cooler and to allow natural light to penetrate the home. They often have bamboo slats for floors, which allow the cool air to come up from the silong. The Philippines is very hot and humid, so the traditional Nipa hut allows for cooling. There may or may not be a ceiling. Often times the ceiling is not built to allow the hot air to rise and leave through the roof.

The roof is usually tall and steeply pitched, creating a space above the living area for the hot air to go. They are built with thatch, a material that is readily available. This gives the hut a cooling effect in the long hot humid summers.  These roofs also were the reason many of these small huts survived the ash fall from the Mt. Pinatubo eruption. Many more modern homes succumbed to the weight of the ash and collapsed.

While modern Nipa huts have changed, the design has stayed basically the same. The walls are often built with bamboo rods or mats to allow the house to be cool in the hot summers and warm in the rainy season. They are still built-in a square shape and are left open for light and coolness.  The windows are large to help give light and often are held open with a long bamboo rod, to allow for airflow. This is the modern Nipa hut—an icon that has survived and adapted over time.

On your next trip to Southern Leyte, Philippines, take a trip to the rural areas and see living Filipino history. History is alive in the Philippines, so pack your bag and grab your passport. Make this the year you explore the Southern Leyte, Philippines.

How to build your own Nipa Hut

These days many of us are getting closer to nature or deciding to go back to our roots. Sometimes spending less money is best, and a simple Filipino-style Nipa Hut can really help you be comfortable while keeping costs low. This video shows you in great detail how to build your own.

Bahay Kubo: Tradisyonal na pamumuhay ng Filipino sa Bukid

Wet Market In Batangas Philippines

This is also an authorized post on steemit under @exploretraveler at:

https://steemit.com/travel/@exploretraveler/nipa-huts-traditional-filipino-rural-living