10:22 am - Wednesday June 19, 2013

FINDING SOLITUDE ON AN ISLAND OF MALAPASCUA, CEBU


Finding Solitude On An Island  of Malapascua

Many believe that Malapascua Island in Cebu is like Boracay twenty years ago. Free from commercial structures and other establishments. Malapascua has a long shorelines close to some other islands and some unexplored reefs.

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A group of travel bloggers planned this trip . And I thought, it was really exciting and fun. Malapascua is accessible via Yellow Ceres Buses from Cebu City to Maya Port . Maya port is at the north tip of Cebu. A ceres bus from Cebu city costs Php100 plus and could take approximately three to four hours depending on the traffic. And From Maya port to Malapascua Island takes approximately an hour and costs Php100.

Just a tip , Buses going to Maya port run every 30 minutes and its 24 hours however From Maya Port to Cebu buses are only available from 1am to 6pm. There are also private vans that can take you to Maya Port for Php190 per head.

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Anyway,According to Cebuanos, Malapascua means “Bad Christmas” . Along time ago , Spaniards landed on a stormy christmas day in year 1500′s. Mal means bad and Pasco means Christmas . Interesting.

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At the end of the most exhausting but exciting boat ride. We finally reached Malapascua late in the afternoon. I should never miss this moment. When i was watching the sunset , somehow  i  really felt different. I felt all emotions actually including my childhood memories. I was reminded of a nice walk with my family when i was a child. There is really nothing in this world that you can see that is so blissful and beautiful. Sunset generally changes its colors every second until it disappears. Watching sunset at the beach will always be a special moment for me everytime I am on a trip. And For some reasons , Taking sunset shots enhance my creativity . Believe me, taking sunset shots fascinates almost everyone. Its colors and dimensions are absolute breath-taking.

I was so excited when our boat slowed down. We’re now approaching Malapascua Island. What else can I say? Malapascua, Did you cast a spell on me? I was like a child plunged into the water . And it was really cool. The sand felt so good to my feet.

And on the shore, I saw a couple of tourists, generally foreigners enjoying the beach under the heat of the sun.

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Spoil yourselves with amazing sceneries , stunning and magnificent views showcasing beautiful tourist spots surrounded with vast expanses of unexplored beaches waiting to be discovered . Tourists are to awe-inspiring spectacular views. I was really delighted to witness an incredible subject when i was in Malapascua. There are great and captivating views which include some photo opportunities.

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It was almost after lunch when we arrived at the Maya port . We soon found ourselves on board with a pump boat ready to take us to Malapascua. The scorching heat of the sun was so high and we were a little blinded by its light. Our boat can carry approximately ten people. I took a seat closest to the boat man because somehow I was scared of the waves. I wanted to position myself near the bow so at least I can get the best angle to take a photo of everything I think is beautiful. But  I was scared of the waves.

Ang taray ng place. Yun lang ang masasabi ko. Clear and blue waters, blue skies vividly emblazoned with spectacular views.

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We also spent a very romantic dinner date with the rest of the bagets near the shore. I must say that the restaurant was a perfect spot too. It was such a relaxing time in which we just have to sit back and enjoy the peaceful night. We really wanted to chillax the whole night but realized we also have to consider our time. So we headed to another restaurant which is situated just right on the beach. We had a great dining experience. We ordered Malapascua pizza and fruit juices.

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6587910563 59b60ab7f5 FINDING SOLITUDE ON AN ISLAND OF MALAPASCUA, CEBU

Finally, the next morning was full of excitement. We hired a local boatmen for our next activity, Island hopping. We wanted to be more productive that day so we kept ourselves busy maximizing everything for the whole day. We had a great snorkeling experience and also reached the coral garden. We took a turn at the light house and the ship wreck . I ultimately enjoyed the fish feeding too. I wish we could stay there longer.

6588104367 8a4bb76a5b FINDING SOLITUDE ON AN ISLAND OF MALAPASCUA, CEBU

It really took me about approximately more than 5 looks over the edge when I realized this was where Andrew’s going to cliff dive.Jumping off the 50 feet death cliff. I asked myself , Is he really going to jump out there? Are you kidding me? Cliff diving can really be dangerous and should only be done by experienced or if you are confident with your cliff diving skills. Andrew is really extreme.

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Andrew Mamangun as a cliff diving dare devil.

I asked him , how was the feeling . All he said was great! I can imagine falling through the air would be scary . When you hit the water it should feel like falling in to a concrete wall. Watching Andrew as he climbed made me realized it was challenging yet very exciting. I bet Andrew would not jump not only once . I should give him a citation for cliff diving. Ikaw na!

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Malapascua offers a surreal outdoor experience. I often think that I will come back and sail my own boat. I only wish that Malapascua will remain beautiful forever. I am sure its natural beauty will never escape from any resort developers eye.

If you are in the quest of finding solitude , this place is for you. It’s 15 minutes passed the hour of 12 in the afternoon. Our friends at Bantayan Island was expecting us there. I am  now totally spellbound by Malapascua Island.  I seriously intend to treat myself with more trips next year. I will see you soon Malapascua.

Now whether you are on a business trip or simply want to get away from the busy and overwhelming streets of the metropolis, you have to make sure you book cheap airfare for the holidays and enjoy your vacation in the Queen City of the South.



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  • Drew

    Asan na ang citation ko? Haha!

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com/about-2/ JUANDERFULPINOY

      Meron kang isang citation sa magazine hihihihi….

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  • Niña Kristina Llaneta

    Hi, Would like to ask where did you stay in Malapascua? :)

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com/about-2/ ©juanderfulpinoy.com|Chino

      Hello Nina, K9 cottages. It has very simple, native rooms good for 2 pax for 500 PhP and may additional pag more than 2.

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  • mae

    Hi Juanderfulpinoy! :)

    I’m planning a Cebu trip for my parents this coming April..

    My dad really loves snorkeling and my mom is just the “I’m-chill-up-here-in-the-boat” type.. But I would like to believe they both enjoy island hoppings and some town tours. :)
    I want them to experience the best white beaches of Cebu that’s why I can’t choose from Bantayan, Camotes and Malapascua Island..

    Could you recommend just one island with a good resort since they’re the typical tourist who just wants to relax.. :) (I don’t want them to get stressed with island/resort transfers. :) )

    Thank you so much!!@05cd2adad4a5a4835f15c9c705143a50:disqus (I!!!!! :)

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com/ ©juanderfulpinoy.com|Chino

      Hello mae, based on your comment generally you just want to relax and bum around then I strongly suggest you go for Bantayan , Bantayan Island would be a paradise for you.  There are numerous resorts in the area but I encourage you to try  sugar beach resort. -If you are a diving enthusiast, then Malapascua Island is the perfect island for you and your family. Get yourself acquainted with sharks in Malapascua.  There are problems with the electricity in Malapascua though, but I dont think it would bother you ,maganda rin kasi sa Malapascua. Take my word for it.=) Thanks for the time. Enjoy your summer and Have a blessed holy week.

      • mae

        Awesome reply is awesome! :)

        Thanks you so much, Juanderfulpinoy for the insights. :)
        Keep on doing these great adventures!! :)

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  • http://thepinaysolobackpacker.com/ Thepinaysolobackpacker

    ayan, binabasa ko mga Malapascua entries mu. hehe thanks for sharing! i’m excited! :)

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com/ ©juanderfulpinoy.com|Chino

      wow ate gael , kala ko nakapunta ka na dito.. Bitin nga ang malapascua ng bagets haha. Gusto ko ulit bumalik .  Enjoy…

  • Mustachio

    I love Malapascua. I make it a point to visit at least once a year! Where did you stay in Malapascua?

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com/ ©juanderfulpinoy.com|Chino

      We stayed at K1 hotel , I think that was the cheapest hotel in the area. I will come back and that is for sure.

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  • http://www.perthelectricalservices.com.au/ kellyana11

    Lovable shared. Its feel great whenever you diving daredevil. Truly Its look that all of were enjoying every moment in Island of Malapascua. Now I have made a decision that I will suggest my friend to go Island of Malapascua with me. Anyway thanks for sharing wonderful moment.

  • http://www.ruthilicious.blogspot.com ruthilicious

    We were considering of visiting Malapascua when we booked our flight to Cebu. So many beautiful beaches to explore in the country, so little time. :)  

  • http://www.ruthilicious.blogspot.com ruthilicious

    We were considering of visiting Malapascua when we booked our flight to Cebu. So many beautiful beaches to explore in the country, so little time. :)  

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  • http://www.justanotherpixel.net blankPixels

    I lived for over a year in Cebu, but I never got to visit this place among the other beautiful islands there. *sigh* Well, Long story. *LOL*

    Added this to my bucket list. I wish we could visit Malapascua this year or next year at the latest. I want to go back and experience Cebu as a tourist, not a resident (I think I’ve said this a lot whenever people tell me about the breath-taking places they’ve visited in Cebu).

  • http://www.justanotherpixel.net blankPixels

    I lived for over a year in Cebu, but I never got to visit this place among the other beautiful islands there. *sigh* Well, Long story. *LOL*

    Added this to my bucket list. I wish we could visit Malapascua this year or next year at the latest. I want to go back and experience Cebu as a tourist, not a resident (I think I’ve said this a lot whenever people tell me about the breath-taking places they’ve visited in Cebu).

  • http://twitter.com/TalesfromtheTum Richard Co

    The place looks pristine, hope to be able to visit there in the future.

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      Yes it’s pristine. Words are not enough to describe malapascua. Maganda

  • http://twitter.com/TalesfromtheTum Richard Co

    The place looks pristine, hope to be able to visit there in the future.

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      Yes it’s pristine. Words are not enough to describe malapascua. Maganda

  • http://twitter.com/ionGonzaga Ion Gonzaga

    my kind of getaway… one of the places added on my wishlist again. so sad, as OFWs, we only get to have a month-long vacation back home and that 1 month is too short to roam around beautiful places on my wishlist 

    great pics bro!

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      Hi Ion, maximize your one month vacation. Believe me , I spent only four days just to see these beautiful places ;Cebu City , Malapascua and Bantayan , Moalboal etc. It was a very short trip and I have more reasons to comeback. =)

  • http://twitter.com/ionGonzaga Ion Gonzaga

    my kind of getaway… one of the places added on my wishlist again. so sad, as OFWs, we only get to have a month-long vacation back home and that 1 month is too short to roam around beautiful places on my wishlist 

    great pics bro!

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      Hi Ion, maximize your one month vacation. Believe me , I spent only four days just to see these beautiful places ;Cebu City , Malapascua and Bantayan , Moalboal etc. It was a very short trip and I have more reasons to comeback. =)

  • http://thepurpledoll.net Sumi Go

    Love the photos. I’ll definitely visit Malapascua mid this year.. :)

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      Thanks Sumi. You still have 12 more months this year.=)

  • http://thepurpledoll.net Sumi Go

    Love the photos. I’ll definitely visit Malapascua mid this year.. :)

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      Thanks Sumi. You still have 12 more months this year.=)

  • Galwin

    I saw a Malapascua deal at MetroDeal and invited my friends to buy but we didn’t. When I saw your beautiful pictures, I felt a little bad, and at the same time, excited to go to Malapascua.

    Thanks for sharing!

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      you still have eleven more months haha. Malapascua is spectacular .Promise

  • Galwin

    I saw a Malapascua deal at MetroDeal and invited my friends to buy but we didn’t. When I saw your beautiful pictures, I felt a little bad, and at the same time, excited to go to Malapascua.

    Thanks for sharing!

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      you still have eleven more months haha. Malapascua is spectacular .Promise

  • http://www.solitarywanderer.com/ Aleah | SolitaryWanderer.com

    Ganda naman dito. I wish I could go there. Unfortunately, when I go to Cebu week after the Sinulog, I’ll go south to Oslob and Moalboal. Maybe next time!

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      I also want to go to Oslob to see the Butandings . Sana bumalik ulit ang mga bagets=)

  • http://www.solitarywanderer.com/ Aleah | SolitaryWanderer.com

    Ganda naman dito. I wish I could go there. Unfortunately, when I go to Cebu week after the Sinulog, I’ll go south to Oslob and Moalboal. Maybe next time!

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      I also want to go to Oslob to see the Butandings . Sana bumalik ulit ang mga bagets=)

  • http://www.pinkmagaline.com/ Pink MagaLine

    I think I like Bantayan better than this. Um, based on your story and photos huh! :)

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      I’m a sucker for the beach! And apparently it doesn’t matter what season it is!!!  I will definitely go for bantayan if i simply want to relax. However if you want to explore the islands , if you love diving and snorkelling then Malapascua is better .

  • http://www.pinkmagaline.com/ Pink MagaLine

    I think I like Bantayan better than this. Um, based on your story and photos huh! :)

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      I’m a sucker for the beach! And apparently it doesn’t matter what season it is!!!  I will definitely go for bantayan if i simply want to relax. However if you want to explore the islands , if you love diving and snorkelling then Malapascua is better .

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  • http://www.micamyx.com Micamyx

    Hindi pa ako nakakapag-Malapascua huhu. Bantayan na dali! haha :P

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      haha nagmamadali…

  • http://www.micamyx.com Micamyx

    Hindi pa ako nakakapag-Malapascua huhu. Bantayan na dali! haha :P

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      haha nagmamadali…

  • I Dongho

    ganda talaga ng malapascua lalo nat kalmado ang dagat. it’s good that despite it being copared with boracay years back, it retains its feature of a nice beach and simple living still abound.

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com/ ©juanderfulpinoy.com|Chino

      Kuya dong , namiss ko nga ang Malapascua. too bad one day lang ang mga bagets dito . tsk tsk .

  • I Dongho

    ganda talaga ng malapascua lalo nat kalmado ang dagat. it’s good that despite it being copared with boracay years back, it retains its feature of a nice beach and simple living still abound.

  • http://twitter.com/byahengbarok byaheng barok

    nakakaloka ang jumping shot! great photos of malapascua :)

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      kahit ako nawindang sa jumpshots hahaaha

  • http://twitter.com/byahengbarok byaheng barok

    nakakaloka ang jumping shot! great photos of malapascua :)

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      kahit ako nawindang sa jumpshots hahaaha

  • http://soloflightEd.com soloflightEd

    ganda talaga ng Malapascua, Chin. kulang syempre ang isang araw. so next time, take your time kasi sayang ang byahe! :D buti nalang nag enjoy kayo! ;D

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      kulang na kulang ang oras.

  • http://trippingsbydrew.com Drew

    Forever etched na sa memory ko ang Malapascua. Lahat ng trip ko sa buhay nagawa ko ata dito hehe! Balik tayo!

    • http://juanderfulpinoy.com chin

      ako din , ang extreme ng ginawa natin . parang amazing race lang talaga

  • http://philippine-made.blogspot.com Philippine Made

    Truly, the Philippines is a wonderful paradise. We are lucky enough to have this kind of nature.

  • http://ohfishiee.blogspot.com FiSH

    wow a trip with the fellow bloggers sound exciting! :) plus the place is like heaven!

    Latest: Featured on Magazine!

  • http://www.vankaizer.com Henry

    Nainggit ako dun sa 50 feet jump. Hello! Checking my blogroll friends. Merry Merry Christmas!!!

  • http://lakbaydiva.com/ lakbay philippines

    stay for a week next time! hahaha

  • http://juanderfulpinoy.com CHINCHAN LAKWATSERO (@juanderfulpinoy)

    true. mas malinis . kasing linis ng beach ng malapascua. Aliw nga talaga ang mga captions ko hahaha. just imagine ang nagnanarrate yung old lady na nakita natin sa beach…Friendly kaya siya

  • http://www.thetravelingnomad.com Renz Bulseco

    Chino! Hahaha hanggang ngayon di pa rin ako makaget-over sa Cebu Trip natin! Grabe I really enjoyed it talaga.

    And oh, love your new theme! Mas malinis na! Weee.

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      I miss Malapascua more than you ever know.

    • http://www.juanderfulpinoy.com Juanderfulpinoy.com| Chinchan

      I miss Malapascua more than you ever know.

  • http://thetravellingdork.com Robbie

    Natatawa ako sa mga captions mo Chin! In my head I keep hearing the accent of the old lady from the beach. =))

    Pa-grab nung last pic ha!!!! :D

    Everytime naaalala ko ang Malapascua nabibitin talaga ako!

    • http://juanderfulpinoy.com CHINCHAN LAKWATSERO (@juanderfulpinoy)

      hahaha natawa nga rin ako eh. Napakamemorable talaga nung old lady na yun. Ang ganda ng accent eh . Ipapakilala ko nga siya sa inyo . Natakot naman kayo nung nagtopless si Madamme! cge lang Grab ang pwedeng igrab