Going out with the family or friends for some bonding time or just time to de-stress and unwind doesn’t necessarily mean going to far-off places like Boracay or Palawan for any long weekend. Cagayan de Oro has its share of awesome and competitive nature parks, beach resorts, and hotel pools that – believe it or not (you’re better off believing it) – many out-of-towners come to the city to experience. So, instead of booking a flight and lugging all that luggage around, you only need things for a day or weekend that are easily packed in a car or your backpack in case you want to take the bus or a jeepney to these awesome places.

Apple Tree Resort

Image Source | www.facebook.com/AppleTreeResortHotel

The Apple Tree Resort and Hotel is situated in Taboc, Opol, Misamis Oriental.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/AppleTreeResortHotel

Though technically already outside Cagayan de Oro City limits, it is only around 20 to 30 minutes commute from the city center. It’s a great getaway place with two swimming pools where family and friends can go swimming, or enjoy the private beach area for swimming and picnics.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/AppleTreeResortHotel

If you go early on Sunday morning they have “Zumba by the Beach” at 7:00 a.m. If you’re there for the food, the resort has an indoor and outdoor restaurant with complimentary Wi-Fi.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/AppleTreeResortHotel

Night dining will give you an awesome view of the Macajalar Bay. Should you decide to stay there overnight with the family, they have 39 guestrooms and suites with good room amenities.

Chali Beach Resort and Conference Center

Image Source | www.facebook.com/chali.beach.resort

One of the oldest beach resorts of the city, it is located in Cugman, just a 10 to 15 minute drive from the city center.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/chali.beach.resort

What started as a small picnic resort area in 1954 is now one of the most popular resorts, with families and groups spending weekends at the outdoor swimming pool and beach picnic area.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/chali.beach.resort

For night dining and a spectacular view of Macajalar Bay, the Tres Marias Restaurant serves the finest and best Filipino food and international cuisine.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/chali.beach.resort

They also have spa massage and Wi-Fi access. Should the family decide to stay overnight, they have family sized rooms among their 55 guest rooms with great room amenities.

Limketkai Luxe Hotel

Image Source | www.facebook.com/LimketkaiLuxeHotel

The Luxe Hotel features the very first rooftop outdoor infinity swimming pool in the city.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/LimketkaiLuxeHotel

It even has a wading pool for children.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/LimketkaiLuxeHotel

For a family swimming bonding day or night swimming with friends, the rooftop swimming pool offers a great view of the city, especially at night.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/LimketkaiLuxeHotel

The pool area contains a pool bar for quick drinks in between swims. For the health enthusiasts, they also have a gym, dance studio, and sauna.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/LimketkaiLuxeHotel

For night dining, their Kave Restaurant and Bar and Lounges serves the best local and international cuisines.

N Hotel

Image Source | www.facebook.com/NHotelCagayanDeOro

Situated along the C.M. Recto Highway in Kauswagan fronting the NHA Subdivision entrance and Jollibee, they have one of the most sought after swimming pools for family gatherings or just large group bonding for a day or the weekend.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/NHotelCagayanDeOro

N Hotel is only around 5-10 minutes out of the city center.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/NHotelCagayanDeOro

Aside from the large outdoor pool, children can enjoy the kiddie pool. They even have a gym and fitness center for the health conscious.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/NHotelCagayanDeOro

For lunch or dinner, their Bon Café serves local and international cuisine all day. Should the family decide to stay for the weekend while using the pool for free, the hotel has 63 guest rooms including 3 suites and a family room good for 11 persons.

Cabula Spring Resort

Image Source | www.facebook.com/pages/Cabula-River-Grill

If you want something different, like an outdoor spring pool in a picnic area where you can cook your own food, then this is the place for you.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/pages/Cabula-River-Grill

This resort is located in Cabula, Lumbia, around a 40-minute drive from the city center. It’s the boundary before entering Talakag, Bukidnon. There’s an entrance fee of PhP50.00 for adults and PhP30.00 for children. Tables can be rented for PhP50.00 while cottages can be rented for Php250.00, PhP150.00, or PhP100.00.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/pages/Cabula-River-Grill

The pool is very large with continuous free-flowing fresh spring water. The resort itself is right beside the Cagayan River, though there is a fence to ward off potential river swimmers since the current is very strong. Occasionally, river rafters can be seen going past at terrifying speeds. For the more adventurous swimmers, the pool has a side hanging bridge that leads up to a platform and a zip line.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/pages/Cabula-River-Grill

The line ends by plunging into the pool. You can bring your own food to cook, which is already half the fun with such picnics. It is advisable to bring a candle or two to light on the table to ward off the flies since it is an open picnic area. If you don’t have a vehicle, you can take a Lumbia jeepney at the Carmen Market and just tell the driver to drop you off at the resort.

Mapawa Nature Park

Image Source | www.facebook.com/MapawaPark

This is a surprising nature park located at the Malasag area, Cugman. Though technically only a 15-minute drive from the city center, the rough roads going up to the park may extend travel time to almost an hour.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/MapawaPark

Since the park is almost always fully booked, it is advisable to call ahead and to also confirm if the coming weekend weather is good.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/MapawaPark

You can also take advantage of their package tours and treks at around PhP1,200 per person. The resort is a 2,500 hectare eco-tourism park ideal for trekking, hiking, and zip lines.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/MapawaPark

The flora here, especially the trees, is said to be centuries old. They also have rappelling, cliff jumping, and a water slide. You can bring your own food there for cooking. They also have a restaurant and outdoor swimming pool.

Jatico Adventures

Image Source | www.facebook.com/jaticoadventures

One of the newest eco-tourism parks in the city, it is located just 15 minutes outside the city, though the rough roads can extend travel time up to nearly an hour.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/jaticoadventures

The park contains hiking trails, a playground, aviary, campgrounds, bamboo sway huts for picnickers, and different rides and jumps such as the zip lines, ATV rides, big swing, water zorb, and the only bungee jump in the city.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/jaticoadventures

Image Source | www.facebook.com/jaticoadventures

Image Source | www.facebook.com/jaticoadventures

There is an adult pool and a kiddie pool.

Malasag Eco-Tourism Village

Image Source | outoftownblog.com

Located in Malasag, Cugman, just 15 minutes away from the city center, the village is actually accessible only by private vehicles or riding a three-seat public utility motorcycle the locals call “habal-habal” and charges PhP20.00 per person.

Image Source | hitlist.tv5.com.ph

There is an entrance fee of PhP30.00 and a map is provided since navigating the rather large park can be confusing especially if you get carried away along the paths and stairs surrounded by luscious flora and some fauna sprinkled around like the Philippine deer (locally called “usa”), monkeys, birds, and a snake cage.

Image Source | www.jessicarulestheuniverse.com

The restaurant offers a breathtaking view overlooking the city, especially at night. There is a swimming pool at PhP50.00 per person and a camping and picnic grounds if you want to bring your own food to cook. There is a series of hanging monkey bridges among the towering centuries-old trees that can be fun to cross except for those with wobbly legs.

The post Recreation and Leisure in Cagayan de Oro – Top Hotel Pools, Beach Resorts, and Nature Parks Where You Can Unwind, De-stress, and Spend Quality Time with Family appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Photo Source: Kagayhaan Music Festival

Founded by Enzo Belen, Kagayhaan is the first music festival of its kind in the Visayas and Mindanao region that aims to introduce quality indie band and electronic dance music from all over the Philippines to the millenials of Cagayan de Oro as well as to neighboring cities. To take action on August 29, 2015 at the festival grounds of Mapawa Nature Park making the weekend of Higalaay Festival a day of love, dance and music.

Photo Source: Kagayhaan Music Festival (Mapawa Contract Signing with Enzo Belen on the right)

The mentioned founder was a volunteer stint of the recent Malasimbo Festival 2015 which caused him to put up a music festival in his hometown and meet the team he’s working with for Kagayhaan. Kagayhaan Music Festival team roots for uplifting the quality of music entertainment and creativity throughout the untapped regions in the Philippines, aiming to cultivate a venue for music.

Photo Source: Kagayhaan Music Festival

Kagayhaan is on to promoting a diverse range of music for the Northern Mindanao mass with indie bands and electronic dance music DJs. With its festival wishes which are to cultivate culture, entice tourism and reaffirm Cagayan de Oro as a city of adventure, nature and culture-rich activities. Another great way to endorse Cagayan de Oro and its status as a center of culture and entertainment in Northern Mindanao.

Photo Source: Kagayhaan Music Festival (Mindanaw Tribal School Inc)

The proceeds from the festival will be handed to the Mindanaw Tribal School, Inc to support the construction of their classrooms and aid their teachers.

Photo Source: Kagayhaan Music Festival

The expected artists who will perform for the said event are just some of the pride of Visayas and Mindanao. Nominated for Album of the Year and Female Vocalist of the Year at the Indie Rock Awards was Thea Pitogo, Loop Iligan. Named as one of the most promising bands of today by Status Magazine was She’s Only Sixteen, won Wanderband and placed 2nd for indie bands in a global competition was The Ransom Collective, to perform with Manila heavyweights. DJs will soon take over the event as the night gets deeper such as The Zombettes who are supermodels turned into full-time DJs, and No Class, a Producer/DJ duo from Norway. More acts will be revealed in the coming days so might as well stay tuned.

Photo Source: Kagayhaan Music Festival

The post Kagayhaan Music Festival: Uplifting the Musical Culture of Cagayan de Oro appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Image Source | jnitro519.wordpress.com

For those not familiar with skydiving or who have merely seen it on TV or movies, it’s not as hard as it seems. As young as 6-year olds and as old as 80 years have done skydiving jumps. If you’re an adrenaline junkie who wants to level up from all those zip lines and other bungee jumping gimmicks, skydiving is now available in Cagayan de Oro.

Skydiving was first known as parachuting, and first developed by the American and British military technicians to save aircrews from emergencies aboard flying aircraft and balloons in the 1930’s. By 1941 the large circular parachute was perfected for all aircraft crews as well as for delivering soldiers to the battlefield using what was then referred to as airborne troops.

Image Source | insights.looloo.com

Today, parachuting or skydiving is a free-falling action sport wherein skydivers ride in aircraft and jump anywhere between 1,000 feet to 13,000 feet, do some free fall, and then deploys the parachute never below 1,000 feet. After opening the parachute, the skydiver can control direction and speed descent using toggles at the ends of steering lines attached to the trailing edge of the parachute. This is usually used to aim for a landing site and to aid in having a relatively soft landing.

For safety reasons, the first two or three jumps must be made with experienced and trained instructors in the form of a tandem skydive. Two parachutes are always carried, the main parachute that is deployed, and the reserve or emergency parachute. Here in Cagayan de Oro, it seems that the Whitewater Rafting capital of the Philippines will be given some sort of run for its money.

Image Source | dig.do

For many years skydiving here in the city was only seen during special occasions especially during the city fiesta celebrations when Philippine Army and Air Force skydivers would do an exhibition and usually land at the Pelaez Sports Center or at the once-spacious Limketkai Center. SKYDIVE CDOC and Skydiving.com Cagayan de Oro now offer skydiving experiences with different packages for anyone and everyone who wants to learn or experience skydiving.

SKYDIVE CDOC operates at the former Lumbia Airport at Lumbia, Cagayan de Oro. All their available packages include the ground training plane and pilot, special rental and permits fees, parachute equipment and jump gears, jumpmasters and riggers (all USPA certified and members), and assisted deployment jump.

Instructor Assisted Deployment (IAD) – P14,500.

Second jump – P3,500.

Licensed and certified jumpers with their own gear – P3,000.

20 students minimum are needed to constitute a jump session.

Image Source | triptheislands.com

Skydiving.com Cagayan de Oro is actually part of Skydiving.com Philippines in which you need to get in touch with them through their main website contact form or calling them through their US number. They offer tandem skydiving, a skydiving learning school, and skydiving as teambuilding event. For a small additional fee, they offer an action video recording of your jump which you can then upload on YouTube, Facebook, or any social media site you desire.

For SKYDIVE CDOC, visit MCEUBHUNZ Guns and Ammo, 6th Division, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City or contact 09173233122 or 855-0174. For Skydiving.com Cagayan de Oro, visit http://philippines.skydiving.com/skydiving-in-philippines/ph/b2/cagayan-de-oro/tandem-skydiving-cagayan-de-oro-city-1834523.html , call 1-855-445-8969, or use their contact form at http://philippines.skydiving.com/contact.php

The post For Adrenaline Junkies Who Love Jumping from 1,000 Feet and More, Skydiving is Now Here in Cagayan de Oro! appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Cagayan de Oro City’s nightlife is a balanced mix that suits everyone’s specific tastes. A mixture of nightclub bars, music bar lounges, dance club bars, bingo and gaming halls, evening sports, restaurants, and videoke bars dot the different areas in and around the city. These night spots are normally open at the break of dusk until past midnight, depending on the crowd intensity. There is always something in CDO’s nightlife to suit all within legal age and preferences. This only goes to show how vibrant and cosmopolitan a city CDO has become.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/SomewhereElseCDO

Though still a far cry from the insomniac nightlife of Manila and Cebu, Cagayan de Oro can now boast of its share of nightlife bars that are at par with the best that other cities can show off. There are bars that allow everyone to let loose and have all the awesome fun, dancing, and drinking with friends or family while there are bars that simply have piped in music and drinking for a conversational evening. Whatever your rave or crowd, the City of Golden Friendship has got you covered, so all you have to do is to pick out from these newly opened bars around town, if you’re planning to paint the town red tonight, on any night, or during the weekend. Red paint not included when choosing your bar of choice.

Somewhere Else in CDO

Image Source | www.facebook.com/SomewhereElseCDO

If you need to be somewhere else tonight or during the weekend, then the place to be somewhere else is at Somewhere Else. This newest bar in CDO’s night scene is fast becoming a favorite watering hole and hangout for millennials and baby boomers alike.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/SomewhereElseCDO

Having only opened last August 8, the crowd here is always on point and fresh, but never rowdy. It is located on the 1^st and 2^nd floors of the Consortium Building along Corrales Avenue Extension (just after the Gaisano City Mall parking area).

Image Source | www.facebook.com/SomewhereElseCDO

They have blaring dance tunes from local DJ’s like DJ Red,  and Miss J. On special events they get to invite popular DJ’s such as their recent Fiesta Madness last August 28 and 29 featuring Cebu City’s GIO V of Liv Superclub and NIX DAMN P, an international DJ who played really slick and bouncy tunes during the two-day event.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/SomewhereElseCDO

They also guested a flak-kicking girl duo named The Zombettes. Somewhere Else is open starting at 5:00 p.m.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/SomewhereElseCDO

The DJ music mixing starts at around 9:00 or 9:30 p.m. They usually stay open until 1:00 a.m. on Sunday to Thursday while on Fridays and Saturdays they close at 3:00 a.m., tops. They serve a wide selection of local and foreign beers and liquor, though the foreign beers seem to be catching on with the crowd especially on weekends. Jack Daniels and tequila also seems to be a hard favorite for some groups. On one night, the owners, Marian Rivera and Mikoy Yap even spotted former Senator Migz Zubiri for a boy’s night out.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/SomewhereElseCDO

And if in case you can’t finish the large liquor bottle that you ordered, you can write your name on it they’ll keep it in their shelves for the next time you come and visit. You can call ahead especially before weekends because their tables tend to get sold out before the week ends.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/SomewhereElseCDO

And while you’re there, try their best seller Animal Fries; twice fried fresh and thick sliced potatoes topped with ground beef and creamy cheese sauce. If you are looking for the best lounge to hang out, then Somewhere Else is the place to be!

Club XS

Image Source | www.facebook.com/Clubxscdo

Another new dance lounge club with amplified DJ tunes that opened only last February 18. It is located at the western tip of the Rosario Arcade on Florentino Street at the back of the Limketkai Center, right across the Robinson’s Center car park. For those familiar with the restaurant scene, this was the former Aqua Seafood Restaurant beside Kenny Rogers.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/Clubxscdo

During the dance club bar’s grand VIP launch party opening, no less than FHM model and DJ Khai Lim and 99.5 Play FM DJ Therese Garcia were their guests for their amplified DJ music and beats.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/Clubxscdo

The grand launching was well timed for the Chinese New Year last February 19, with the entrance being free. They are open from Mondays to Saturdays from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. August was a busy month for Club XS because of the numerous events timed for the fiesta celebrations.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/Clubxscdo

The 2^nd Liceo de Cagayan High School Grand Reunion was held last August 29; August 28 was Merry White Fiesta Night wherein everyone had to come in any white attire; and Lourdes College High School Class ’92 held a major fundraiser last August 21.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/Clubxscdo

They even had a Throwback 80’s Dance Party called “Keep Calm, Pretend It’s the 80’s last August 14. Club XS was one of the major sponsors as well of the just concluded Higalaay Street Festival held last August 29, providing the club’s regular DJ’s to the event such as the Banaag Brothers, DJ Cocoy Banaag, Jack Fryday, DJ Jeff Baja, and DJ Nino Belza. Other awesome events held previously was an Electric Blue Rock Acoustic Night featuring Juan Enrico Live.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/Clubxscdo

Wednesdays to Saturdays from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. is their “Happy Hour” with their bucket of beer at discounted price plus free peanuts. They even now feature Ballroom and Fitness Nights every Thursday and Saturday from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. wherein you can either dance ballroom style or simply dance to stay fit using zumba and other dance moves. Thursday night is Ladies Night with cocktails and drinks all you can for an affordable price. During the fiesta celebrations, no less than Epi Quizon visited Club XS.

Conclusion

Many often say that the end of amplified DJ dance lounges may be just over the horizon as live band music and live dance band music is slowly making a comeback in the whole country, Cagayan de Oro notwithstanding. However, enter any of the bars mentioned above and you’ll feel that amplified music bars and lounges still have a long way to go, especially in this city in which one day, it will finally garner a name as one of those cities that never sleeps with its nightlife scene.

The post Awesome Party Atmosphere Awaits When You Visit These Newly Opened Bars in Cagayan de Oro appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Once in a while About Cagayan de Oro and All About Cagayan de Oro (on Facebook) feature establishments outside of Cagayan de Oro that somehow contributes to the economy or tourism of the city. Cagayan de Oro is, after all, the capital of Misamis Oriental and on occasion the province contributes profusely to the city’s tourism, and vice versa. So in this case we feature the Blu Sands Beach Resort in Tubigan, Initao, Misamis Oriental.

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

Geographically, Cagayan de Oro is located inside Macajalar Bay, and while this makes for good waters for ship ports and facilities, it doesn’t give access to good beaches.

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

Instead, the almost straight access to open waters of the eastern and western coastline of Misamis Oriental creates some of the best beach resorts in the province such as Ajis, Midway, Hapitanan, Duka Bay, and now, Blu Sands Beach Resort.

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

Blu Sands has just opened this month, providing Cagayanons, Misamisnons, and other tourists a resort for those brief “stress release” vacations or weekend bonding getaways that won’t take you far from the city since Initao is only about one hour from Cagayan de Oro.

First time visitors won’t get lost because Blu Sands is located between Midway and Hapitanan. This is a prime location for beach resorts famous for its dazzling sunsets especially during clear weather conditions and on the summer months. The large part of the resort is given to the hotel itself, with screened and roofed beach side cottages on the beach front.

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

This is something different compared to the more common open cottages in other beach resorts so that food is not exposed to the elements and flies.

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

The beach cottages are good for families and other groups who want to enjoy beach swimming while at night guests can enjoy the large swimming pool for night swimming, though the pool is also open during the daytime for guests who prefer fresh water to salt water. There is even a children’s swimming pool for the small kids to traipse in.

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

The resort’s rooms are all non-smoking rooms and rates are quite affordable as shown below:

• Deluxe Room – P1,800.00
• Deluxe Room with Veranda – P1,800.00
• Twin Room – P2,200.00
• Family Room – P2,500.00
• Suite Room with Kitchen – P3,800.00
• Barkadahan Rooms good for up to 12 persons – P5,000.00

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

All resort rooms are air-conditioned. There is a free breakfast good for 2 persons for all rooms except for the Barkadahan rooms. The resort has an indoor restaurant for guests to enjoy their good food and dishes.

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

There is a swimming pool fee of P150.00 from Monday – Friday and P200.00 on Saturday and Sunday. Cottage rentals good for 15 persons is P1,800; beyond 5:00 p.m. you need to add P2,500. Cottages for 30 persons are at P2,800; beyond 5:00 p.m. you need to add P2,500. There are also table rentals at the beach front available at P800.00.

Conclusion

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

Obviously, and in line with the December holidays, Blu Sands offers a unique venue for those small to medium company Christmas parties or generally to celebrate any occasion or event. There is even the choice of having it indoors or outdoors. If you’re on the hunt for a really good resort outside of the city, now is your chance to take a look at the newly opened Blu Sands Beach Resort.

The post Have a Weekend Getaway at the New Blu Sands Beach Resort for a Unique Beachfront Experience appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

The December holiday season means a long vacation for all students and around a one-week respite for professionals. For some, this means going to the movies at the mall cinemas, or if they don’t feel like leaving the house, they can enjoy online streaming movies on the internet or cable or get movies from a video rental store. It’s a great time to spend some vacation bonding time for the family, friends, or for couples.

For the mall cinemas here are the foreign movies that will be showing until December 25, after which all movies will be replaced by entries from the Metro Manila Film Festival.

In the Heart of the Sea

Image Source | www.flickeringmyth.com

Starring ‘Thor’ heartthrob Chris Hemsworth, this film is based on the true story of a whaling ship in 1820 that was sunk by a sperm whale, stranding the surviving crew at sea for 90 days. To survive they had to resort to all sorts of extreme measures, including cannibalism.

Watch the Trailer Below Courtesy of YouTube:

Creed

Image Source | www.getmovieposter.com

If you have been following the Rocky movies of Sylvester Stallone or at least saw the last one, Rocky Balboa, this film will star Stallone again but this time as a boxing trainer. The boy he needs to train is Adonis Johnson (portrayed by Michael B. Jordan), the son of his former opponent and close friend, Apollo Creed. What follows is a lot of drama and punches that made this the number one film in the U.S.

Watch the Trailer Below Courtesy of YouTube:

Point Break

Image Source | www.heyuguys.com

This surprisingly good B-movie starring ‘no one we really know’ features a young FBI agent investigating a team of unique extreme sports athletes who might be behind a string of unprecedented and sophisticated robbery heists. What follows is awesome extreme sports action.

Watch the Trailer Below Courtesy of YouTube:

The 33

Image Source | movie.mthai.com

Starring a versatile star cast of Antonio Banderas, Juliette Binoche, and James Brolin, the film is based on the recent news and true story of the 33 miners in Chile who became trapped underground for 69 days after their gold and copper mine collapses.

Watch the Trailer Below Courtesy of YouTube:

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Image Source | www.thewrap.com

The long wait for fans of Star Wars is over as Star Wars Episode VII kicks off with a new cast starring Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, and Adam Driver while bringing back the old cast of Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and countless others. 30 years after the Sith Empire was overthrown by rebel forces, the new Republic faces a new villain and imperial forces who now become the new rebels.

Watch the Trailer Below Courtesy of YouTube:

For online streaming movies or DVD rentals, here are a few of the best all time Christmas movies. For purposes of clarity, we omitted films that showed extreme violence, horror, and slapstick drama; after all, Christmas is supposed to be a season for happiness, right?

A Christmas Carol (2009)

Image Source | cinefantastiqueonline.com

This is Walt Disney’s animated retelling of the Charles Dickens’ classic novel, with Jim Carrey portraying the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. It also stars Gary Oldman and Colin Firth. The original Walt Disney film, A Christmas Carol / Scrooge that came out in 1951 is also worth watching. The values and moral lessons from its story are still timeless for any generation.

Jingle All the Way (1996)

Image Source | www.imdb.com

A classic Arnold Schwarzenegger film about a workaholic father who wants to make up for lost time for his son by getting him the hottest toy of the season, Turbo Man. But in the process there’s more to getting this toy, and more adventure and father-son bonding as well. A very timely story about family values.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Image Source | en.wikipedia.org

Here’s an animated wonder that mixes Halloween, Christmas, singing, romance, and just a little bit of dark horror, but filled with values and moral lessons that will leave you thinking at the end of the film.

Annie (1999)

Image Source | www.amazon.com

A made-for-TV-movie screen adaptation of the original Broadway show that casted real Broadway legends like Victor Garber and Kathy Bates. It is definitely way, way, way better than the 2014 version. This one truly captures the Christmas spirit and values of the original play.

About a Boy (2002)

Image Source | www.youtube.com

It’s not really a Christmas movie but the season plays a large part in this British comedy starring Hugh Grant who hates Christmas because of a song his father wrote and made famous. Eventually he finds true family values and friendship with a boy and his mother with whom he goes out of his way to help out.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Image Source | www.buzzfeed.com

Critics still consider this the best Muppet movie ever made, with the whole cast retelling the story of Charles Dickens’ Scrooge in their own comedy and Muppet manner. The musical sequences are great and filled with lessons, even up to the climactic end with Miss Piggy continuing to harass Kermit the Frog. It still makes for big guffaws and laughter.

Conclusion

And there you have it, more reasons to enjoy the holidays whether you choose to stay at home or go to the cinemas. As a sort of postscript, we would have included The Peanuts Movie, the comedy Christmas Eve, and The Revenant for your holiday viewing except these movies won’t be shown to make way for the Metro Manila Film Festival starting December 25. Still, you have enough above to enjoy watching. Happy Holidays!

The post Planning a Movie Marathon this Holiday Season? We Got You Covered! Here are Some Fun & Inspiring Movies to Watch this December appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Image Source | Facebook: Pigeon Hole

There’s something about weekend getaways that just draws in Cagayanons by the thousands. Perhaps it’s just the penchant to unwind, to somehow de-stress, or to bond with family or friends, and the farther from the city, the better, so as to see more “greens” and mountains rather than the familiar street and building jungles we all see daily.

Image Source | Facebook: Pigeon Hole

Pigeon Hole is that weekend getaway that will definitely give you plenty of “greens” and mountain views that can be breathtaking. Located at the Magic Farms in Mambatangan, Alae, Manolo Fortich, just a 45-minute drive from the city, they will be holding a soft opening this coming January 23, 2016.

Image Source | Facebook: Pigeon Hole

Owned by one of CDO’s oldest families, the Sarraga family, the Pigeon Hole is aptly named because since 2013 the property served as the family’s private gun range for clay pigeon shooting. Sometimes called clay target shooting, round clay orange targets called “clay pigeons” are launched into the air by spring-loaded traps and shooters with single-shot shotguns have to shoot down the clay pigeons while still in the air. Pigeon hole is also the name for the birdhouse used for pigeons.

Image Source | Facebook: Pigeon Hole

Once just a family getaway with some metal plates propped up on tires and a plywood-boxed structure, the Sarraga family soon saw its potential as a weekend getaway business. Construction began last year and slowly the family began layouts and decorating using materials they had collected over the years from their trips abroad. For now, the site features a casual dining restaurant and open spaces suitable for selective parties and events. Even before the planned soft opening the Sarraga’s brought in selected guests for reviews and critiques. The whole family is now involved in running all aspects of the venue, from the cooking to the restaurant to the construction and maintenance of the place.

Image Source | Facebook: Pigeon Hole

The January 23 soft opening will actually be a dinner buffet so reservations will be needed since tickets are limited. The dinner buffet is at P250 per person with free complimentary drinks. No walk-ins will be entertained so it is important to book and reserve for the tickets, especially if you’re planning to bring the whole family. The buffet starts at 6:00 p.m. but people are encouraged to come early to take pictures and to see the lay of the land.

After the soft opening, Pigeon Hole will open only on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There are plans to eventually open from Fridays to Sundays, and then on a daily basis. They also plan to eventually serve for lunch, dinner, and snacks. The place can be reserved and opened for special occasions and events on any day using either the restaurant or the open space venues. For those especially interested, the pigeon hole shooting range will be open for a special fee, but for now, only for those with experience in handling firearms. Eventually, instructors will be made available for beginners.

For the soft opening buffet reservations, you can call 0927-1381518.

The post Pigeon Hole: Another Great Weekend Getaway to be Opening Soon appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

It’s the holiday season again and that means your company or institution might be looking for a fairly large venue site for your annual Christmas Party.

Image Source | www.3wisebears.co.uk

Naturally, your company needs to consider space and sitting capacity based on how many employees there are, the different food menus and packages, sound system and stage area (since there’s the possibility of a program of some sort), and the venue location for easy accessibility for everyone. Additional amenities may also be considered like venue decorations, pricing for additional drinks, and even DJ music (if necessary).

With all this in mind, here is a partial list of some of the more popular party and event venues around Cagayan de Oro. Please do note that this is only a suggestive article since there are literally hundreds of venues around the city even with small restaurants, hotels, and resorts, and we cannot cover each one of them.

Limketkai Luxe Hotel

From the Cagayan de Oro’s first locally owned 5-star hotel the Luxe provides an impressive lineup of ballrooms, function rooms, and boardrooms. The main Ballroom is capable of sitting 700 – 800 persons for banquets or any other large party. It can maximize to 1,200 persons in theater style. Their other function rooms include the Emerald 1, capable for 250 – 300 persons or 500 persons in theater style; Emerald 3, capable for 150 – 200 persons or 350 persons in theater style.

Emerald Ballroom
Image Source | limketkailuxe.com

Amethyst is capable for 50 – 60 persons or 80 persons in theater style; Ruby, capable for 20 – 40 persons or 60 persons in theater style; Sapphire is capable for 20 – 40 persons or 60 persons in theater style; Topaz, capable for 25 – 35 persons or 40 persons in theater style.

All function room and ballroom packages include full technical support, convention and technical equipment such as internet connection, LED monitor, LCD projector, LCD screen, DVD player, P/A sound system, lapel and wireless microphones, basic or special spotlight and lighting system, rostrum, and white boards. The hotel is located at the Limketkai Center in Lapasan.

Seda Centrio Hotel

The Seda is Cagayan de Oro’s first 4-star hotel from an international name. It has two meeting rooms capable of accommodating up to 14 persons, while its two “Sinamay” function rooms can accommodate between 70-100 persons. When both Sinamay rooms are opened, a total of 170 persons can be accommodated. Their current function rooms are classified into the following; the Board-room set-up, Classroom Set-up, Theater and Banquet Set-up.

Seda Centrio – Meeting Room
Image Source | http://www.sedahotels.com/centrio/meetings.php

The function rooms can be converted into a reception hall, banquet hall, theatre, or classroom. The “Al Fresco” area can also be opened and connected to the function rooms to accommodate up to 200 persons for really big functions. The hotel is located on Corrales Avenue right beside Ayala Centrio Mall.

Pacifico Boutique Hotel

Crema Café and Restaurant at the ground floor of the hotel and its second floor extension was formally launched last November. Both floors can hold more than 50 persons simultaneously. The menu is a fusion of Italian, French, American, and Filipino dishes.

The second floor function room also features a keyboard accompaniment and projector for singing accompaniment rather than the typical videoke machines. The hotel is located at the corner of A. Velez and Fernandez Streets.

Grand Caprice Restaurant

The Grand Caprice is one of the oldest and popular event venue sites in the city. It has 4 functions rooms that can accommodate between 150 up to 300 persons. When all four function rooms are opened to form a ballroom, it can accommodate up to 1,500 persons. It is located at the Limketkai Center in Lapasan.

Marco Hotel

Image Source | http://www.alwana.com/marco-hotel

This hotel has a ballroom and one other function room that can accommodate up to 250 persons. They even provide an overhead projector with screen and an audio-visual system.

Marco Hotel Ballroom
Image Source | http://www.alwana.com/marco-hotel

The hotel is unique as being located in the middle of a preserved forest area park. Marco is at the Alwana Business Park in Cugman.

Pearlmont Inn

Image Source | http://www.pearlmontinn.com/

Another of the city’s oldest and popular event venues, the hotel has a Bayanihan Ballroom as well as 3 other function rooms and a rooftop veranda with a maximum capacity of up to 450 persons for each.

Image Source | http://www.pearlmontinn.com/

They also provide modern sound system equipment, lightings, smoke machine, and even laser lights. The hotel is located at the Limketkai Drive, in front of the Sto. Niño area.

N Hotel

This hotel’s main Lambago Function Room can accommodate from 150 – 300 persons.

Image Source | http://www.nhotelcdo.com/facilities/

Their other function rooms include the Cattleya with up to 80 – 120 persons, the Anthurium with up to 60 persons, the Alfresco with up to 50 persons, and the Heliconia with up to 40 persons.

Image Source | http://www.nhotelcdo.com/facilities/

Image Source | http://www.nhotelcdo.com/facilities/

The Bon Café Restaurant can be extended in order to serve as an open function area capable of seating up to 40 persons.

Xavier Sports and Country Club / Ridgeview Chalets

Image Source | http://www.xavierclub.com.ph/

Though more known for its swimming pool and sports facilities, their Grand Convention Hall became well known after hosting several popular national beauty pageants in the past, with a capacity for 1,200 persons. Another convention hall can accommodate up to 120 persons, while their Gallery, Bar Lounge, and Sky Bar can also accommodate up to 120 persons.

Image Source | http://www.xavierclub.com.ph/

They also have 4 small function rooms that can be opened into one large function area that is capable of seating up to 72 persons. They are located inside the Xavier Estates along Fr. Masterson Avenue in Upper Balulang.

Pryce Plaza Hotel

Image Source | https://www.tripadvisor.com/

The city’s first 3-star hotel located on top of the Carmen Hill overlooking the city. It is the only hotel that can be seen from the city’s center. It has a Grand Mindanao Ballroom that can accommodate up to 1,200 persons. This ballroom hosted local and national beauty pageants in the past.

Image Source | www.tripadvisor.com

The ballroom can be subdivided into 3 smaller ballrooms. They also have two other function rooms – Kamagong Room and Molave Room – capable of seating up to 700 persons. They also have a ballroom lobby that can be opened for a buffet party for up to 400 persons.

Grand City Hotel

Image Source | http://grandcityhotelscdo.com/

This hotel has two function rooms that can accommodate up to 200 to 300 persons.

Image Source | http://grandcityhotelscdo.com/

The hotel is located at the corner of A. Velez and R.N. Abejuela Streets. They have party and event menu packages for any occasion.

Loreto’s Bar and Grill

Image Source | beerbuds.cdeo.ph

This is one of the oldest business establishments in the city located at the corner of Tomas Saco and 6^th Streets in Nazareth. Their popular KTV rooms can accommodate up 50 persons with a few of their rooms with both KTV and a billiards table. Their main function room can accommodate up to 80 persons in buffet style.

Country Village Hotel

Image Source | bh.cleartrip.com

Located along Villarin Street in Carmen, this hotel has 2 function rooms that can accommodate up to 100 persons for each.

Image Source | tripwow.tripadvisor.com

The swimming pool can also be converted into an open function area for swimming pool or children’s parties.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this partial list of party and event venues can help companies and other institutions out there in their search for a large to medium venue location for their Christmas party, or for future occasions and events in the future such as boardroom meetings, seminars, and conferences.

The post Popular Party and Event Venues in Cagayan de Oro for Your Upcoming Celebrations in the Holiday Season appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

The Infinity Swimming Pool at the Ultra Winds Mountain Resort in Baungon, Bukidnon, is now open. The swimming pool is called as such because it is inside the mountaintop resort with a view overlooking the Cagayan River and most of Cagayan de Oro.

Image Source | cdodev.com

The Infinity Pool gives a feeling of swimming at the edge of a precipice because the water is flowing over the edge to be recycled underneath where it flows back into the pool. Infinity pools are quite safe and the edges are very safe even for children.

Image Source | cdodev.com

The resort pool is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day while the resort is open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Although they are located in Baungon, Bukidnon, the resort is on the Cagayan de Oro-Bukidnon boundary and is accessible through the Taguanao barangay access road just after the CDO Convention Center. From the city center it is only a 20-30 minute trip by motor vehicle. The pool has an introductory rate of P250.00 per person inclusive of snack. Children 10 years old and below are P200.00 including snack.

Image Source | cdodev.com

Ultra Winds Mountain Resort is a family-friendly resort with a dining restaurant whose main attraction – aside from its good food and menu lineup – is the panoramic view at night overlooking the river and the city. It also has hotel rooms, accommodations, and amenities as well as a downhill zipline. Functions can be at the restaurant or on the open grounds, a novelty way to celebrate an event, occasion, birthday, wedding, or office team building beyond those boring four-walled function rooms. Or you can have a simple romantic dinner or have a marriage proposal with a romantic panorama below.

Image Source | cdodev.com

Ultra’s hotel rooms are the usual standard to superior types from single occupancy up to families or groups of 4 persons. For large occupancies of 15 persons they have a Villa with 2 bathrooms, a kitchenette, and a large private veranda. Up to 7 Villa guests can use the Infinity Pool for free. All their rooms have a panoramic view of the river and the city, especially at night. For a different adventure experience, they have Safari Tent accommodations for outdoor camping. 15 shower rooms are available for camping guests.

Image Source | cdodev.com

Guests at the mountain resort can enjoy their 800-meter downhill Zipline. For the children and adults alike the resort has Horseback Riding ponies. Golf enthusiasts can practice their swing at the Golf Driving Range while those who want to rant all day or evening can do so with Karaoke singing.

At present, aside from the Infinity Swimming Pool introductory promo, Ultra Winds Mountain Resort also has special rate packages for Moonlit Dinner, Grand Romance Dinner, Zipline Day, Zipline Barkada, Overnight Family Fun, Overnight Premiere Group, and its Pay Three, Stay Four and Pay Four, Stay Five packages as well. Aside from taking a private motor vehicle or a taxi cab, Infinity Pool users can book the Ultra Winds shuttle with a maximum capacity of 22 persons with a fixed rate for a round trip.

The post Take a Dip in the Water While Enjoying the View at Ultra Winds Mountain Resort’s Newly Opened Lush Infinity Swimming Pool appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Don’t fret because you’re still part of millions of Filipinos with no idea what their spiritual, reflective, restless, drained, or even inspired mood is and so with no idea where to go or what to do during the Holy Week. And you’re not alone with the unsure mind of what to do even if you have more than enough in your wallets to make a trip.

The Holy Week isn’t exactly mandatory as to whether to take a long vacation off from the daily grind, take a reflective time off for prayer, or simply get yourself crucified for the sake of penitence. So for those unsure of what to do or where to go for the Holy Week, here are some last-minute suggestions of some fun or contemplative things you can do for the next four days of vacation.

Do workouts at home

Image Source | www.popsugar.com

If you’re a member of a gym and its closed during the holidays, why not do your daily routine at home. Since the internet isn’t on holiday, you can pop some YouTube videos of exercise routines, play them, and voila, your whole family can join in the fun. And it’s free, and the family can all pitch in to cook up a healthy meal after each session. Great bonding fun.

Listen to your music

Image Source | www.dissolve.com

If you’re kind of a loner, you can chill out and listen to your brand of music while outside, sitting at the terrace or veranda, or just in your living room. There’s no rule for Holy Week that says you need to listen to religious music because not everyone’s a fan of Don Moen. However, we do caution that if your music is more on the rocky and metal side, you might want to put on those headphones.

Stay at a hotel

Image Source | www.fourseasons.com

With many people going out of town or joining religious treks, you can easily find a nice hotel for you and the family in the city just to relax from seeing the same old house each day. Try finding a hotel with a nice view, especially at night, or one with a swimming pool so your family can enjoy some swim bonding in the late afternoon and evenings because no one will be using the pool during Holy Week.

TV or movie marathons

Image Source | www.thebrunettediaries.com

With your family, other like-minded families, or just with friends, you can organize a TV series or movie marathon and list down what everyone wants to watch. In between, you can organize what to cook during mealtimes and snacks.

Go camping at the beach

Image Source | www.visitnc.com

Unless it’s Easter Sunday, the beach resorts and generally, the beaches, are almost deserted for the next 3 days. Instead of checking in the resort rooms or hotel, inquire if you can book a camping trip and bring your own tents. Inquire as well if you’re allowed to do your own cooking, or if the resort can do the cooking for you. If you don’t own a tent, inquire about tent rentals. It’s another great bonding fun for the family.

Trek to the mountains

Image Source | www.hausaltemuehle.it

You’ll be surprised that the city has nearby mountain trails that are open for trekking, and once you reach the top after the mountain climbing, the view can be spectacularly breathtaking. Just be sure to wear the right attire, wear the right non-slip shoes, and bring lots of water and food for the whole day affair. You can do this with your family or by your lonesome, or perhaps with close friends.

Go on a thorough general cleaning

Image Source | www.mycleanersputney.co.uk

If you really decide to stay home, perhaps now is the time for that long-delayed general cleaning to get rid of the junk and useless clutter that’s just lying around your home and free up much needed space. You’ll really feel accomplished for getting rid of the unnecessary mess in your house. You can even take ‘before’ and ‘after’ pictures to show off later on social media.

Go out and visit churches around the city

Image Source | manilacathedral.ph

Even if you’re not feeling prayerful and reflective for the Holy Week, you can get rid of the boredom just staying at home by going to the different churches around the city and be amazed at the unique architecture of each. You’ll be amazed that no one church is the same and you can even just sit inside for a few minutes to contemplate the quiet atmosphere and interior designs. A few of the really nice architectural church wonders around the city we can suggest is the St. Augustine Cathedral, the Xavier University Chapel, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church (Carmen), Jesus Nazareno Church (in front of Ayala Centrio), San Isidro Labrador Eco-Church (Kauswagan), and Our Lady of Fatima Church (Macajalar Hill, Camaman-an).

Have a picnic at the park

Image Source | www.newyork.com

Now here’s an old-school activity that you’ve probably haven’t done for ages. The city has a lot of empty parks since people are going elsewhere. And to put nice touch to the picnic, leave all your gadgets and phones at home and just eat, drink, and generally talk and be happy with the family. Be sure to bring enough food and drink, especially food that won’t easily spoil. You can add more to the fun by bringing a Frisbee or ball to throw around, or fly a kite. However, before flying the kite make sure the park is far from electrical wires and cables.

Pick up on new books

Image Source | www.onlinebooksearch.com

If you’re used to a certain genre of books, why not try another one? And while you’re at it, instead of those drab e-books that you simply flick through your tablets, why not hold a good old book in your hand and experience turning the pages with both hands. Some of the great authors we recommend for fiction are Rick Yancey, Tom Clancy, Dan Brown, James Patterson, Michael Crichton, Stephen King, and Larry Bond. If you like Sci-Fi, try out Orson Scott Card, William C. Dietz, and William Brinkley. For non-fiction we recommend James Bradley, Hampton Sides, Jeff Shaara, and Chris Kyle.

So there you have it, and who ever said that Holy Week was only limited to resorts and religious treks. But of course, when all else fails and you just want to recharge your batteries for the coming daily grinds after the holidays, you can just SLEEP, SLEEP, SLEEP throughout the next four days.

The post No Plans for the Holy Week? There Are a Lot of Last-Minute Things You Can Do Over the Next Four Days appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Image Source | Facebook: Cris John Tagupa

Speed Master Go Kart in SM City Cagayan de Oro, the first Go Kart Race Track in Mindanao, was opened to the public last December 15, 2015 where Kagay-anons and tourists can enjoy the thrill and excitement of kart racing. The race track which was formerly located at the 4th level of Car Park Building now has been moved to the SM City CDO Parking Roof Deck.

Image Source | Facebook: Speed Master Go Kart Racing page

To make the experience more unforgettable and fun, the race track is now longer and wider with more turns. Show off your racing skills at Speed Master Go Kart CDO!

The post Speed Master’s Go Kart Race Track Now Moved To SM City CDO Parking Roof Deck appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Summer: The word synonymous for sun, heat, and heatstroke (just kidding), and fun, of course. The word synonymous for weekend getaways, vacations, swimming, and even more fun. Cagayan de Oro will never run dry and certainly can hold its own when it comes to summer getaways. Aside from those within the city limits, most of the resorts and other getaways in nearby Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon are also favorite go-to’s by Kagay-anons as well as out-of-towners. So, instead of going far and wide by plane or boat to get some sun and fun, grab your summer outfits, suntans, sandals, and head on down to the nearest fun place that’s just a ride away.

Whitewater Rafting

Naturally, we need to start with Cagayan de Oro’s prime/main/premier tourist attraction, thanks to nature’s bounty, and this is the Cagayan River. Whether a Cagayanon or not, you need to experience what has made CDO famous and officially placed the city on the tourism map. Literally everyone from the edge of Luzon to the outer rims of Tawi-Tawi who have experienced the whitewater rafting on the Cagayan River has given very positive reviews about it.

From the city proper it is only around a 45 minute drive to the launching point at Mambuaya. There are package tours available for every conceivable grouping. Participants in the past have commented on the highly safety-conscious nature of the rafting guides. Courses may last up to 2 hours depending on the river’s condition. One rafting option is the “short course” in which you need to pass through 14 rapids, costing around P900 for each person. The “long course” passes through 21 rapids and costs P1,000 per person. Each package is allowed a minimum of five persons per group. Even international rafting experts now consider Cagayan de Oro as the whitewater rafting capital of the Philippines.

Makahambus Adventure Park

Image Source | blauearth.com

Still not a very popular getaway, it deserves more from the local populace in terms of tourism. This is a 40 minute drive outside the city just beyond the city’s Lumbia HHnP air station. The best thing to try in this park is the sky bridge for a really great adventure. Be sure to ask your guide about the Battle of Makahambus that took place within the area.

Image Source | www.mytravel-asia.com

The park is actually a series of underground caves with a 150-foot circular gorge. The sky bridge is actually three hanging bridges that are tied to three very tall trees. There is also a zip line and rappelling. The only part of Makahambus cave allowed to be explored starts at the cave’s large opening; you will need flashlights to navigate the cave path until it terminates out onto a promontory with a great view of the Cagayan River.

Apple Tree Resort

Image Source | www.agoda.com

This resort is situated in Taboc, Opol, Misamis Oriental. It is only around 20 to 30 minutes from the city center. It’s a great getaway place with two swimming pools where family and friends can go swimming, or enjoy the private beach area for swimming and picnics. If you’re there for the food, the resort has an indoor and outdoor restaurant with complimentary Wi-Fi. Night dining will give you an awesome view of the Macajalar Bay. Should you decide to stay there overnight with the family, they have 39 guestrooms and suites with good amenities.

Ultra Winds Mountain Resort

Image Source | southernsoul2015.wordpress.com

The infinity swimming pool at this mountain resort in Baungon, Bukidnon, is now considered to be the biggest in the area. The swimming pool is called as such because it is inside the mountaintop resort with a view overlooking the Cagayan River and most of Cagayan de Oro. The view at dawn or dusk can be very breathtaking. The resort pool is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day while the resort is open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Image Source | www.theweekendwarriorph.com

The resort is actually on the Cagayan de Oro-Bukidnon boundary and is accessible through the Taguanao access road just after the CDO Convention Center. From the city center it is only a 30 minute trip. It is a family-friendly resort with a dining restaurant whose main attraction – aside from its good food and menu lineup – is the panoramic view at night overlooking the river and the city. It also has hotel rooms, accommodations, and amenities as well as a downhill zipline.

Dahilayan Forest Park

This world-class adventure park is located in Dahilayan, Bukidnon, at least an hour and a half from Cagayan de Oro City. It is a family destination in a foggy park with a dream-like sprawling playground on a mountain, picnic grounds amidst pine trees in the cool breeze, and animal sculptures all over. The resort now boasts 40 hotel rooms. The park has gained popularity in the tourism industry and from the influx of people from all over the Philippines. The adventures and rides include ATV (All-terrain Vehicle) and Buggy trail adventure ride, Luge Sled Downhill Ride from New Zealand, Zorbit Ball, Bumper Boats (instead of bump cars), Barrel Train, Bungee Bounce and Net Trampoline, Hanging Bridge, Forest Putt Mini Golf, Tree Top Adventure, and Horse-back Riding.

Mapawa Nature Park

Image Source | jniceparadise.blogspot.com

This is the other of only two adventure parks within Cagayan de Oro, located at the Malasag area in Cugman. Reaching the park is at least a 30-minute drive. You can take advantage of their package tours and treks at around PhP1,200 per person. The resort is a 2,500 hectare eco-tourism park ideal for trekking, hiking, and zip lines. The flora here, especially the trees, is said to be centuries old. They also have rappelling, cliff jumping, and a water slide. You can bring your own food there for cooking. They also have a restaurant and outdoor swimming pool.

ARJE Resort

Image Source | host.javanielsen.dk

This is a free-flowing cold water resort located in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental. It is only a 40-minute drive from Cagayan de Oro. The cold water pool is just that, so naturally cold coming down from the mountains, and the spacious pools and space makes it ideal for the family or large groups looking for bonding time. They have cottages, tables, and room accommodations for those looking to stay a bit longer. There are separate pools for adults and children. Cooked or uncooked foods can be brought in.

Kahulugan Spring Resort

This natural flowing cold water spring resort in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, is considered the biggest and best in Jasaan. It boasts two adult pools and a children’s pool.

Image Source | www.panoramio.com

The cold water pool is brought on by the natural springs from the nearby forests. The resort has tables, cottages, and room accommodations. The pools are guarded by life guards. Cooked or uncooked foods can be brought in, and there are spaces suitable for cooking.

Mantianak Wildlife Park

Image Source | www.theweekendwarriorph.com

This is a wildlife and nature park in Sugbongcogon, Misamis Oriental, complete with natural forests and wild animals. That’s right, and it’s only an hour’s drive from Cagayan de Oro. The park’s main attraction is its male and female Siberian Tigers (yes, they’re a couple).

Image Source | www.tripadvisor.com

There are pathways that lead around the forest and to the picnic area where cooked food can be brought in for gatherings.

Image Source | neoticviews.blogspot.com

Other exotic animals there include rare bird species and rare ponies.

Image Source | jauntyjude.blogspot.com

There are cottages available for overnight stays. There is even a playground for the kids and a wonderful mini-falls and fishpond filled with exotic fish. The park is operated by the local municipal government of Sugbongcogon.

The post Best Summer Getaways in Cagayan de Oro City and Nearby Areas appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Summer isn’t over yet! Before it ends, make sure to plan your getaway with friends or family so you won’t miss the fun of the warm season. If you want to enjoy lush beaches with white sand but don’t have the budget to go to Boracay or Palawan, these stunning beaches near Cagayan de Oro can still give you what you’re looking for! What makes these beaches more interesting is that they’re not very popular and haven’t been discovered by many. Take time to visit them and explore the beauties of nature near our beloved city!

Agutayan White Island, Jasaan

From Cagayan de Oro, go east towards Jasaan and look for the Jasaan Port. If you’re a small group you can negotiate with the local fishermen to take you to the island and back from P700 to P1,000.

Image Source | Facebook: Agutayan White Island, Jasaan, Misor.

If you’re a large group, go to Barangay Jampason and hire a motorized boat for around P1,200. Agutayan is a crescent-shaped and naked island uninhabited off the coast of Jasaan, Misamis Oriental.

Image Source | Facebook: Agutayan White Island, Jasaan, Misor.

Shallow scuba divers and amateur divers love this island because of its constant sightings of eagle ray, surgeon fish, starfish, and other aquatic biologicals that live in and around the beautiful coral reefs. It is also a marine sanctuary as the breeding ground for endangered giant clams.

Image Source | Facebook: Agutayan White Island, Jasaan, Misor.

The sand isn’t as white and fine when compared to White Island in Camiguin, but it’s still fun to go there especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

Image Source | Facebook: Agutayan White Island, Jasaan, Misor.

It can get stinging hot during midday since the island has no cover; like White Island, it’s just a sandbar. If you plan to stay almost the whole day, make sure to bring enough food, water, cooking, and eating utensils and equipment.

Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort, Balingoan

Before you reach Camiguin Island (not province), you only need to be pointed in the direction of Balingoan.

Image Source | Facebook: Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort Inc.

Image Source | Facebook: Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort Inc.

The name of the resort is also the town’s name, Mantangale, and Alibuag in the local dialect means “freshwater springs.”

Image Source | Facebook: Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort Inc.

Image Source | Facebook: Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort Inc.

Image Source | Facebook: Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort Inc.

The resort is a large 5.5 hectares with duplex cottages, private veranda, and 4 executive suites, landscaped gardens, lanzones, and coconut trees.

Image Source | Facebook: Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort Inc.

Image Source | Facebook: Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort Inc.

The resort also offers services and facilities for corporate seminars, team building, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving (PADI accredited divers and instructors), kayaking, and even fishing.

Calamcam, White Beach, Talisayan

Calamcam, White Beach, in Talisayan, Misamis Oriental, is the generic beach area that anyone can go to, bring a picnic basket, some blankets, and find a nice shady tree to sit under.

Image Source | Facebook: Lav Ortega-Calonia

Image Source | Facebook: Calamcam, White Beach, Talisayan

Image Source | Facebook: Calamcam, White Beach, Talisayan

Image Source | Facebook: Calamcam, White Beach, Talisayan

Or you can select from the few resorts that dot the Calamcam beach area, such as Villa Arcadia Resort.

Image Source | Facebook: Villa Arcadia Beach Resort

Image Source | Facebook: Villa Arcadia Beach Resort

Image Source | Facebook: Villa Arcadia Beach Resort

Image Source | Facebook: Villa Arcadia Beach Resort

Image Source | Facebook: Villa Arcadia Beach Resort

These resorts are open to the beach and also have their own swimming pools. The resorts usually charge fees for the entrance, a picnic hut, and to use the swimming pool. It’s around 2 hours’ drive from Cagayan de Oro to Talisayan itself.

Del Carmen Beach and Swimming Pool, Lagonglong

It’s actually a beach, swimming pool, and aqua park all rolled into one.

Image Source | Facebook: Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool

Image Source | Facebook: Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool

It’s an hours’ drive from Cagayan de Oro to Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental. Be forewarned, if you plan to avail of the aqua park and pool slides, they won’t allow you to wear any type of jeans and cottonette shorts.

Image Source | Facebook: Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool

Image Source | Facebook: Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool

The slides are inflatables and are vulnerable to sharp objects like buttons and zippers. The aqua park, banana boat, stand up paddle, tandem kayak, wooden Bangka, and jet ski, all have separate fees and charges.

Image Source | Facebook: Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool

Image Source | Facebook: Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool

Image Source | Facebook: Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool

Image Source | Facebook: Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool

Image Source | Facebook: Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool

They also have rooms good for 2 persons. You have a choice of either enjoying at the swimming pool or enjoying along the beach since there are picnic huts available.

Blu Sands Beach Resort, Initao

This fairly new resort is at Tubigan, Initao, Misamis Oriental, only about an hour’s drive from Cagayan de Oro.

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

The major part of the resort is given to the hotel itself, with screened and roofed beach side cottages on the beach front.

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

This is something different compared to the more common open cottages in other beach resorts; thus, food is not exposed to the elements and flies.

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

The beach cottages are good for families and groups who want to enjoy beach swimming while at night guests can enjoy the large swimming pool for night swimming, though the pool is also open during the daytime for guests who prefer fresh water to salt water. There is even a children’s swimming pool for the small kids. All their hotel rooms are air-conditioned and can accommodate from 2 up to 12 persons.

The post Top 5 Gorgeous Undiscovered Beaches to Visit Near Cagayan de Oro appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Image Source | Facebook: Elpie Paras

Cagayan de Oro City is proud of having its own kind of parks providing Kagay-anons venues where they can stroll around, breathe in some air, or simply just to enjoy a time of their own or with their families. To mention some of the parks where people of Cagayan de Oro usually visit are Gaston Park which is just beside St. Augustine Cathedral and the City Museum of Cagayan de Oro, Vicente de Lara Park which is fronting the Misamis Oriental Provincial Capitol Building, Golden Friendship Park in Divisoria, Tree Park inside Ayala Centrio Mall and among others. But there is this one park which have been existing since 1987 but wasn’t maintained, until its recent re-launching on February this year 2016.

Relaunching

Image Source | Facebook: Tom Udasco Photography

Duaw Kagay-an Park, one of the city’s to-go-to parks was re-launched on February 27, 2016 with the collaboration of the Cagayan de Oro Government, Kagay-anon International and Cagayan de Oro City Tourism Council, City Tourism Office and City Historical and Cultural Commission.

Led by City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno and Kagay-anon International representatives Gerlou D. Gaane, City Tourism Council Chair Dorothy Jean B. Pabayo and City Tourism Officer Elmer N. Wabe was the unveiling of the new marker which recognizes the sponsors and supporters responsible for the restoration of Duaw Kagay-an Park. The park also features a replica of the Birhen sa Kota sa Cagayan de Oro (Our Blessed Lady of the Holy Rosary) that was placed approximately the same at where an apparition of the Virgin of the Holy Rosary originally appeared, saving the early settlement from the attacking forces of slave raiders.

Image Source | www.himantayoncdo.info

Aside of the replica of the Birhen sa Kota, what visitors can also see inside the Duaw Kagay-an Park are landscaped gardens, a memorial marker near the entrance which is dedicated to the late Roy Chaloner Gaane who is the founder of Kagay-anon International and prime mover of Tapok and Duaw Park, a tall tarpaulin with the names of the sponsors who made the project possible and a stage with a large tarpaulin at the background. Plus, the view of the Cagayan de Oro river and the Ysalina bridge is rewarding.

Image Source | www.politiko.com

History

Image Source | Facebook: RollyJames Esling

February of 1986 when the Philippine Martial Law was dismantled, inviting back 120 Kagay-anons from the US and Canada to come back home to Cagayan de Oro in August 1987. This said homecoming event was called DUAW sa KAGAY-AN and since then, it is observed every two years alternating with the gatherings in the US or Canada celebrating the group of Kagay-anons’ city and origins.

Image Source | www.kagay-an.com

Then, Pablo “Ambing” P. Magtajas, that time’s city mayor, proposed to create the DUAW KAGAY-AN PARK at the side of the old tennis court by the river bank across the City Hall. And after it was built, the late Roy Gaane were there and even did the honor of cutting the ribbon for the opening ceremony. Within a year, the whole park has turned into a garden with the paved walkways and benches.

Until Magtajas was no longer the mayor, Duaw Park was then abandoned. 9 years later, it was Mayor Constantino Jaraula’s reign when he promised to restore the park. Shown below is the perspective design for the Duaw Kagay-an Park that was supposed to be started developing last year 2010 at the site near the City Tennis Court. It was part of his Golden Mile flagship project featuring a landscaped garden with a fountain beside the river and a coffee shop. An amount of at least P100,000 that was allocated for the said project, but the design wasn’t pushed through.

Image Source | www.cdodev.com

And during Vicente Emano’s last term as mayor, the city of Cagayan de Oro experienced an unfortunate event where it was flooded brought by the Tropical Storm Sendong, with the whole park destroyed and its monument washed away.

Then Mayor Oscar Moreno was inaugurated in June 30, 2013 with his first lady who prioritized the restoration of the park. On the same year, the park was then used as a venue of the garden show Florikultura Garden Show during the city fiesta. The following years up until the present, the park is being used as a venue of some events annually.

Image Souce | www.politiko.com

The post How Well Do You Know Cagayan de Oro’s Duaw Kagay-an Park? appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Screenshot from Project LUPAD video

Seven Seas Water Park and Resort, the 5-hectare themed water park facility which is currently under construction at the site located in Barra, Opol, Misamis Oriental have already made progress.

The whirlwind slide has already been installed and is almost complete. And the slide tubes are being readied for installation.

Screenshot from Project LUPAD video

Screenshot from Project LUPAD video

There’s an ongoing development with the Wave Pool. Also, the foundation of Slide Tower was already erected.

Screenshot from Project LUPAD video

See the Events Tent below.

There will be more slides, more attractions and more infrastructures in Seven Seas Water Park and Resort. Are you looking forward to its opening? YES! We’re also excited!

Check the full video by Project LUPAD below.

The post Seven Seas Water Park and Resort June 2016 Update appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

It’s that day of the year when we are able to celebrate our appreciation and love for all the hardworking fathers around the globe. And here in the Philippines, such event has always been celebrated by most Filipinos. May it be through giving greeting cards, gifts, treating them at a restaurant, and whatever ways you can think of.

Our fathers serve as the foundation of the home, and being the one doing the hard works such as fixing broken furniture, malfunctioning electrical appliances and other stuff, they provide a role that every home really needs.

How important is your father to you? What do you call him? You should always show him how much you love him. If not everyday, then grab this opportunity to thank him for his sacrifices, understanding, love and care. And as you are reading this, greet him “Happy Father’s Day!”

Do you have something to give to him this Father’s Day? Know that it shouldn’t be that expensive, yet make sure that it’s worth keeping and remembering. But rest assured that whatever that is, your father will treasure that. How about treating him somewhere where there is good food?

We have a list of awesome promos and activities provided by some of the restaurants and businesses in Cagayan de Oro where you can take part with your father. Might as well avail them just right for Father’s Day.

FREE Yoga at One Yoga Wellness Studio

Aye for healthy living! Bring with you your father this coming June 18, 2016, that’s Saturday, at One Yoga Wellness Studio to avail FREE Yoga, Taichi and Dance Classes to commence at 3:00 PM. Get to meet teachers Andrei and Ron.

FREE “Tagay” at Boy Zugba

Celebrate Father’s Day at Boy Zugba where you can avail their FREE Tagay of (1) Pitcher of Iced Tea when you purchase a minimum of P1000. Dad will really enjoy this “tagay”, valid on June 19, Sunday only.

Father’s Day Special Buffet at Restaurant Damaso

How about a special buffet from Restaurant Damaso? Your dad will surely love the ambiance and the food. Treat him on Father’s Day! For only P395 (adults) and P200 (kids), you and your dad will enjoy an eat-all-you-can for their 8 course meal. FREE for those who are 3ft below in terms of height. The special buffet will start from 11:00AM until 10:00PM on June 19, Sunday.

Free Pizza for Dad at Pirates Seafood Restaurant

FREE pizza and use of KTV. Yes, you’ve read it right. Only at Pirates Seafood Restaurant! For a minimum of P300 that is already consumable, you and your dad can already enjoy FREE Pirates Pizza and 2 hours use of KTV. That’s June 19!

Father’s Day Treats at SEDA Centrio

Make your dad feel special on Father’s Day by celebrating it at SEDA Centrio. For P699 per person, or with a group of five paying persons (Dad will enjoy the buffet for FREE), enjoy SEDA’s Luncheon and Dinner Buffets on June 19 that’ll start at 11:00AM to 2:00PM (lunch) and 6:00PM to 10:00PM (dinner).

OR, treat him the SEDA’s Father’s Day Room Package that will run from July 15 to July 3. For P4000, your dad can already enjoy an overnight accommodation for two in a Deluxe Room with breakfast buffet, FREE use of the Wi-Fi, pool and gym, In-room body massage, and complementary activity pass to Centrio Mall’s Father’s Day celebration from June 15-19.

Father’s Day Cake from Missy Bon Bon

Don’t have something special to give to your Dad this coming Father’s Day just yet? How about this Missy Bon Bon’s limited edition Father’s Day cake? Let him know how special he is to you!

Free Drinks for Dad at Roadhouse Cafe

When you avail Roadhouse Cafe’s Father’s Day promo, an order of Roast Beef Set already comes with a FREE mug of beer or iced tea.

FREE Chicken McDo at McDonald’s SM City Cagayan de Oro

On Father’s Day, you can share with your dad FREE 1pc Chicken McDo when you buy a Happy Meal on June 19 starting from 3:00PM until 5:00PM. This promo is available at all McDonald’s stores in SM branches only. Mark the date and head to SM City Cagayan de Oro this Sunday!

Love ‘Em Super Dads at Centrio Mall

Bring with you your dad and celebrate Father’s Day at Centrio Mall’s Love ‘Em Super Dads. Make him feel special by giving him that VIP treatment and present to the world how you really love him by taking a photo with him while at Centrio Mall (and post it on Instagram to get a chance of winning prizes).

Roll A Dice Promo at Gaisano City Mall

Bring your dad at Gaisano City Mall starting from June 17 to 19 and make the shopping more enjoyable! For a minimum purchase of P700.00 in Supermarket, P300 in Department Store and P200 in Gaisano Fast Food, Food Gallery or Steven’s Gourmet, let him roll the dice for a chance to win prizes. Know that PRIZES depend on the promo you get.

Father’s Day Gift from Cham’s Convenience Store

Win a Phantom Mountain Bike or P2000 worth of Gift Certificates this Father’s Day brought to you by Cham’s Convenience Store! All you have to do is purchase any items from Cham’s and upload a photo of you and your Dad. Then you just have to answer why your Dad is the “Best Dad”. And lastly, post it on Cham’s Facebook page. This contest will run from June 9 to 30, with the cutoff deadline on June 30 at 11:59PM. The winners will be determined through the number of likes, to be declared on July 4, 2016 at Cham’s Luna, 5:30PM.

50% OFF on Selected Items from San-Yang Furniture

Which has already started since June 12, 2016, San-Yang Furniture’s 50% OFF Sale is still up. Enjoy 50% off on selected items from San-Yang. Head on to their branch at Limketkai Mall today! Until June 19, 2016 only.

The Kaldi Bundle from Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf

Nothing’s more special for a father than getting perfect cups of espresso, coffee or tea every morning from a son or daughter. And you can only achieve this by having the Kaldi Bundle from Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. Visit their place today at Gateway Park, Limketkai Mall.

20% OFF on Regular-Priced Sunglasses at Sunglass Haven

Avail Sunglass Haven’s simple treat for your dad this father’s Day! Enjoy 20% OFF on their regular-priced sunglasses (except Oakley). Head on to their store at Ayala Centrio Mall this June 14 to June 19.

30% OFF on Men’s 501, 505 and 511 at Levi’s

The SM Store’s Levi’s has a special treat this Father’s Day. Enjoy 30% off on selected regular-priced items of Men’s 501, 505 and 511 available only from June 17 to 19 in all SM Original Levi’s Stores and SM Department Stores a nationwide.

Dad’s Day at The SM Store

Looking for a gift to give for dad this coming Father’s Day? Look no further for at The SM Store, SMAC shoppers can get a FREE P100 Shell voucher when purchasing a minimum of P3000 on June 17 to 19. Spend your weekend at SM City Cagayan de Oro!

Love Ko Si Pap! Online Promo by Camella

This Father’s Day, you can get to win as much as P4000 worth of gift certificates! Interseted enough? Here’s how to join Camella’s Love Ko Si Pap! Online Promo.

Choose a childhood photo you had with your Papa and recreate it by portraying that photo again. Then, like Camella Northmin FB page https://www.facebook.com/Camella-Northmin-855634927914706/ and register online. You can then submit your entries by uploading your recreated photo (old and new) with the hashtag #camellalovekosipap. Only the entries with complete data on registration will be accepted, with the deadline on June 15, 2016. Entries that were qualified will be posted at camella Northmin FB page on June 14. And in order to qualify, a minimum of 300 likes is needed, with the top 3 highest in likes to be declared the winners and will win a prize. Voting will start on June 14 up to June 29, 2016 at 5:00PM. The winning entry will be posted on June 30, 2016.

50% OFF on Selected Items at Boardwalk

This Father’s Day, enjoy 50% OFF on Boardwalk’s selected items from June 16 to 19. Note that all products are non-rebatable and non-returnable.

These mentioned promos and activities are just a few made available by some of the establishments and businesses here in Cagayan de Oro. Only on Father’s Day so might as well avail them, or wait until next year. But know that whatever you are going to give or wherever you’ll be bringing your dad, he will always appreciate your effort. He appreciates it more when you are with him. Show him how much you really love him this Father’s Day! Happy Father’s Day to all fathers in the world!

The post CDO Father’s Day Promos and Activities: What To Give and Where To Bring Dad This Father’s Day appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

The Bigby’s Quality Food Corporation treated invited guests to the soft opening of Cagayan de Oro’s newest dining experience, The Nest, inside of which is nestled two restaurants with completely different food experiences: Maison de Bon Bon Café and Restaurant is French inspired as well as focusing on sweets and its Gelato ice cream, while Giuseppe Pizzeria and Sicilian Roasts focuses more on cuisine from Italian and Sicilian inspired cooking.

The Nest is located along Corrales Avenue fronting the junction of Ramon Chaves Street, almost beside Boy Zugba.

What Happened at The Event

The soft opening officially started around 11am with the usual ribbon cutting by the proprietors of the Bigby’s Quality Food Corporation, Mr. Henrik Yu, Ms. Joanna Lim-Yu, and Ms. Catherine Genabe.

This was followed by the customary blessing of the whole building by a Catholic priest.

As is customary with the Chinese, the practice of throwing coins and candies into the crowd is to bring good fortune to the business in the years to come as well as a way to appease the long-dead ancestors of the Chinese owners so that they may watch over the business and ward off evil spirits.

The Guests

The Nest soft opening was fully packed with the proprietor’s business associates as well as family members, relatives, close friends, guests, and members from Cagayan de Oro’s print media such as Business Week Mindanao, Urban Life by Gold Star Daily, as well as the city’s top bloggers and freelance news writers.

Maison de Bon Bon on the second floor feels like an enlarged and very feminine version of the old Missy Bon Bon, with its menu of Notre specialties, Crepe Savoureux, Crepe Doux, salads, entrees, sandwiches, and Gelato ice cream echoing the fusion cuisines of the ‘Ol Missy.

On the other hand, Giuseppe Pizzeria and Sicilian Roasts on the first floor is more masculine and into pizzas and pasta, Italian rice meals, Sicilian main courses, appetizers, salads, and a few desserts. Giuseppe is actually a franchise with four other Giuseppe restaurants located in Cebu, Mactan, Bohol, and Dumaguete.

Experiencing the Nest First Hand

Following the blessing, a lunch buffet was set out to showcase the delicious foods that Maison de Bon Bon and Giuseppe would be serving to its customers.

Highlights of the buffet were the Arugula Pizza, Chicken Fingers, Sliders, Bolognese Pasta, Herbed Chicken and some French Breads.

For dessert, Carrot Cupcake, Red Velvet Cupcake, Lemon Cupcake, and Blueberry Cheesecake were served just to mention a few.

In the spirit of the Bigby’s tradition, everyone in the soft opening was treated to free and unlimited Gelato ice cream courtesy of Maison de Bon Bon and Missy Bon Bon.

One noteworthy guest that needs to be mentioned was the presence of Ms. Nelia Lee, president of COHARA or Cagayan de Oro Hotel and Restaurant Association. All establishments under the Bigby’s Quality Food Corporation are members of COHARA and have played a huge role in all of COHARA’s activities, most notably the aiding of HRM schools for on-the-job and apprenticeship placements as well as in the annual participation during Cagayan de Oro’s KUMBIRA.

Stay Tuned

Mr. Henrik Yu mentioned that there will actually be a grand opening that will be set sometime in July or August.

The post The Nest: The Newest French-Italian Restaurant Hub in Cagayan de Oro is Now Open! appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Image Source | Facebook: Jamela Jamela

Started operating in 1996, with only some 18 ostriches that came from Africa and Australia, Philippine Ostrich and Crocodile Farm, Inc. now houses more than 600 of the largest flightless bird, 50 crocodiles, Chinese chicken, a herd of sheep, peacock and Hyacinth Macaw.

The said farm is located in barangay Malanang, Opol, Misamis Oriental owned by the Limketkai family in Cagayan de Oro who also owns the Limketkai Mall and Limketkai Luxe Hotel.

Image Source | Facebook: Jamela Jamela

Since its opening in 2000, the farm has been a favorite spot for field trips and group getaways. Schools host educational tour, while families come for a weekend leisure walk. Also, the local government included ostrich tourism as part of their annual festival, organizing Ostrich Festival for the past several years.

Image Source | Facebook: Raquel Pamisa

And in September last year, 2015, the 2nd Ostrich Festival Culinary Competition was held with participating chefs and cooks from hotel and resorts, kitchenettes and restaurants across the municipality to compete for their best Ostrich meat dish.

Farm manager Julius Mugot said that the farm is a 13-hectare property exclusively allocated for breeding and growing ostrich and become the center of ostrich meat supply in the country. Currently, the farm supplies nearly all big restaurants nationwide that serve ostrich delicacies.

Image Source | Facebook: Emil Sumigcay

The ostrich meat doesn’t taste like that of chicken, but of beef, and are low in cholesterol, fat and calories. Red meat is being sold for P1400 per kilo.

According to Mugot, when compared to chickens, ostriches are easier to maintain and are not susceptible to diseases, like hot weather and can live up to 50-70 years. Ostriches aging 10 months to one year can already be slaughtered for its meat, and can lay eggs every other day with an average of 80 eggs per year which can be sold at P500 per piece. Also, the ostrich skin can also be sold used in bag manufacturing, etc.

Image Source | Facebook: Raquel Pamisa

Philippine Ostrich and Crocodile Farm, Inc. has become one of Opol’s tourist spots, which has been contributing to the economy and colorful culture of the municipality and its neighboring city. Open on weekdays and weekends starting at 8:00AM until 5:00PM.

news source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2611466504723/feature-it-s-an-ostrich-feast-in-opol-misamis-oriental

The post Philippine Ostrich and Crocodile Farm in Opol: Home of More Than 600 Ostriches appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

This coming July 10, 2016,  Ichini Yusoph, a registered nurse, crafter, makeup artist and a calligraphy enthusiast from Manila, is going to conduct Modern Calligraphy Workshops in Cagayan de Oro, to be held specifically at ChingkeeTea Main Branch, Pabayo Hayes St. here in the city.

The said workshops will feature two sessions, one for Pointed Pen Calligraphy and the other for Brush and Watercolor.

1. Pointed Pen Calligraphy Workshop
Time: 10AM – 1PM
Description: A workshop designed for those who are interested to learn and explore the art of beautiful writing using a pointed nib. This beginner’s class will teach you everything you need to know on how to get started on your calligraphy journey. It will cover the fundamentals of calligraphy: understanding what modern and pointed pen calligraphy is, learning the basic calligraphy tools and how to care for them, pressure-release exercises, thick & thin strokes, basic strokes to create letter forms and write words in pointed pen calligraphy.

Workshop Fee: P1,500
Early Bird Rate: P1,200 (until June 30)
Includes: All workshop materials (calligraphy guide, worksheets, 2 pointed nibs, pen holder, 1 jar of ink, pencil) and snacks

2. Brush & Watercolor Calligraphy Workshop
Time: 2PM – 5PM
Description: A beginner’s workshop designed to those who want to learn and explore the wonderful world of modern brush calligraphy. Students will learn about the different tools used in brush & watercolor calligraphy, pen exercises & drills and basic strokes to create letterforms. This class will train you to be comfortable in using brush pens, water brushes or simple round brush to achieve the beautiful thick and thin strokes in calligraphy. You will also learn different watercolor techniques you can incorporate in your lettering and calligraphy artworks.

Workshop Fee: P1,800
Early Bird Rate: P1,400 (until June 30)
Includes: All workshop materials (calligraphy guide, worksheets, 2 brush pens, 1 roundbrush, 1 waterbrush, Simbalion 36-color watercolor palette, 1 pack Canson watercolor paper) and snacks

Slots are limited so might as well reserve yours! In order to join and be able to reserve a slot for the workshops, fill up this form.

More about Ichini Yusoph

It was in August of 2014 when Ichini started learning calligraphy. She took it as a hobby at first which eventually grew on her. Ichini was inspired by her fellow Filipino calligraphers namely Gail Madalag, Katia Naval, Alessa Lanot, Anina Rubio and internationally-known calligrapher Dao Huy Hoang. And aside from hosting calligraphy workshops, she also organize other arts and crafts classes, from paper cutting, rubber stamping, dreamcatcher making, leather crafting, to beauty & makeup class.

For more inquiries, call or text 09275546979 or send an email to ichiniyu@gmail.com. To get a glimpse of her works, visit her account on Instagram @ichiniyu.

The post Ichini Yusoph to Host Modern Calligraphy Workshops in Cagayan de Oro appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.

Undeniably, this year’s summer is hotter compared last year. Let us blame the worsening climate change and the El Niño phenomenon. But still, we must not let ourselves get so stressed about it. But instead let’s find a way to beat the heat!

There are definitely million ways to keep yourself busy while having fun with friends and loved ones, or just by yourself during this summer season. May the activities be indoors or outdoors. Be achieved by groups, tandems or individually. But one thing’s for sure, we need them to distract ourselves from the troubling heat. Phew!

You are lucky enough for we at About Cagayan de Oro, will be providing you ways on how to beat the heat this summer season, specifically here in the City of Golden Friendship, CDO. Brace yourselves for these are our suggestions on “What to Do in CDO this Summer”

1. Get Refreshed! Go to the Beach or Resorts

Getting drenched in a cool river, in the shallow part of a wide sea or in a pool (may it be the inflated version) or enjoying an ice cold beverage must be the most common ideas we all think about this summer. Definitely some of the ways we can count on to enjoy the heat, or shall we say, at least.

Thought about swimming? Of course, the summer vacation won’t be complete without going to the beach or resorts to have swimming sessions either with friends or with the whole family. Possibly, these swimming venues will be swarmed with groups having their annual reunions or team building activities. But the question is, what are these swimming venues in Cagayan de Oro and where can we locate them?

BlueView Resort Inc.

Image Source | Facebook: Lorenz Tan II

Can only be found in Barangay Sapong, El Salvador is the BlueView Resort Inc. This classy resort lets you enjoy swimming while surrounded with a great view. For sure is a peaceful venue where you can temporarily forget the stress from work and noise from the city proper.

For ages 3 and above, there is an entrance fee of P250 per head, otherwise it’s free. But for senior citizens, P200 per head is a necessary fee, just have to present a Senior Citizen ID. The entrance fee gives you access to the swimming pool area and tent area. If you are going to ask if bringing food is allowed, yes, but there are corkage fees. Alcoholic drinks, deadly weapons, pets, breakable items, cooking and grilling aren’t allowed to be brought inside the premise. Don’t worry, they have an inside restaurant where you can dine in while being at the resort. For queries, contact them at 09258762491 or 09173022658.

Country Village Hotel CDO

Image Source | Facebook: Country Village Hotel CDO page

For only P150 per head, you can get to enjoy the stunning pools of Country Village Hotel which is located at Villarin St., Carmen in Cagayan de Oro. To mention their facilities, they have 5 indoor function halls which can accommodate 500pax, 4 outdoor function areas for 200pax and 4 swimming pools for adults, children, infant and jacuzzi. For car owners, they have special parking area. Note that they provide corkage fees. You can reach out to them at (088) 858 3004 for inquiries and bookings.

Blu Sands Beach Resort

Image Source | Facebook: Blu Sands Beach Resort, Inc

May be quite far from the city proper but still being visited among Kagay-anons. Situated at Tubigan, Initao, Misamis Oriental is Blu Sands Beach Resort. With their pools and fronting beach, visitors can make the most out of their summer.

More information about Blu Sands Beach Resort.

Stargate Dream Vacation Resort

Stargate Dream Vacation Resort, “a paradise within the city” as what they call it, is located at Box 1 Upper Macasandig, South Diversion Road here in Cagayan de Oro.

It offers an overlooking view of the Cagayan River and some leisure activities such as horseback riding, hiking and trekking. There are also other facilities such as their resto bar and gym. Contact them through (088) 855-0002, 09328788196 or 09175826946 for more details about reservations.

Timoga Swimming Pool Complex

Image Source | bisdaktotheboondocks.wordpress.com

Consisted of 5 spring pools is Barangay Buruun’s Timoga Swimming Pool Complex in Iligan City. It has been a favorite to-go-to place among groups for reunions, special gatherings but most specially, during the summer season.

The spring pools lined up in Timoga Swimming Pool Complex are the El Lauriento (Holiday) Swimming Pool, Timoga Spring Pool, Dela Mar Resort, Mimar’s Springway Resort, and Marvilla’s Swimming Pool. These 5 resorts are mostly full during holidays, especially during summer. Usually, from the city proper, it will take you 2-3 hours to get here. But know that it’s worth the travel.

Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool

Image Source | Facebook: Nicole Meier

At Barangay Kauswagan, Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental is Del Carmen Beach & Swimming Pool. Just an hour-ride from the city proper. You can consider this as one of your summer getaway options with a lot of activities being offered.

Kayak, banana boat, bangka, bubble walk, and their pride aqua park are just some of the water activities you can get to enjoy at the venue. When with the whole family or friends, they offer accommodations at reasonable prices. For only P50 entrance fee, you can already make use of their swimming pool. Have your questions entertained via contacting them at 0905 150 0395.

Apple Tree Resort & Hotel

Image Source | www.facebook.com/AppleTreeResortHotel

You can spend your summer getaway at Apple Tree Resort & Hotel, one of the premier resort and hotel establishments in the city. Located at Opol, Misamis Oriental, this 7000 sqm property boasts its facilities and services, may they be for business or leisure.

Image Source | Apple Tree Resort & Hotel (ATRH) page

They have indoor and outdoor function spaces for social and corporate events, 39 luxurious guestrooms and suites, indoor and outdoor dining outlets, 2 swimming pools and a private beach, plus you can get to enjoy the view of the Macajalar Bay and Camiguin Island.

2. Get that Adrenaline Pumping!

Aside of the beaches and resorts in and near Cagayan de Oro, you can also try the city’s pride, White Water Rafting. Mostly enjoyed during summer, rafting lets you bring out the brave person in you. The view of the nature, the cool river and meeting new people are just some of what you’ll be expecting in the whole duration of this unforgettable experience.

3. Get your Daily Dose of Water and Coolers

Image Source | Instagram: @jexxhinggo

And with this summer weather’s cruel heat, definitely we need to always keep refreshed and hydrated. It’s our way to avoid heat-related illnesses. Water consumption should always be considered the top priority. But, know that there are also other ways to keep ourselves cool even when the weather’s angrily hot in the city. May it be indulging gelatos from Missy Bon Bon’s Frozen Factory located at the 3rd Floor Ayala Centrio Mall near the cinemas, La Favorita’s homemade ice cream with flavors such as avocado, macapuno, cheese, melon and among others that are best against this troubling heat, sipping refreshing milk teas and fruit teas from Chingkeetea – the home of authentic taiwanese tea drinks in the city, or get mango-fied at Mango Mania where you can enjoy different mango desserts.

Image Source | www.facebook.com/MangoManiaCDO

Sounds refreshing right?

4. Dare for Adventure!

Summer can also mean to discover. Specifically to discover new adventures. Adventures that we can’t always get to experience and are hard to forget. Talk about canyoneering, skydiving, trekking, surfing and the likes. But within and near Cagayan de Oro, there are places where you can enjoy, possibly, the greatest adventures of your life.

Dahilayan Adventure Park and Forest Park

Zipline at Dahilayan Adventure Park

The very place where you can enjoy nature and adventure at the same time, Dahilayan Adventure Park and Forest Park is a huge playground for adventure seekers. Located at Dahilayan, Bukidnon, it has become a popular tourist destination among Kagay-anons and other locals. It is a perfect venue for families who would love to have picnics, or for groups who would like to have their team building activity.

Bumper Boats at Dahilayan Forest Park

They have a wide variety of basic rides and extreme rides. From ziplines, hanging bridge, luge ride, bumpboats, and among other rides and courses where kids and adults can share excitement with each other. In just an hour and 30-minute ride, you can already get there.

Luge Ride at Dahilayan Forest Park

Interested of winning a free trip to Dahilayan? Join Cham’s Convenience Store raffle promo. Or you can check out packages that fit with your budget.

Ultra Winds Mountain Resort

With its Infinity Pool, Ultra Winds Mountain Resort is gaining popularity. It hails at Baungon, Bukidnon.

Aside of the resort’s good food being offered from its dining restaurant’s menu, accommodating hotel rooms and amenities, and downhill zipline, it prides its panoramic view at night overlooking the river and most of the city. Definitely the perfect place to spend summer with family and friends.

Mapawa Nature Park

Image Source | www.facebook.com/MapawaPark

If Dahilayan and Baungon of Bukidnon are too far for you, well, there’s a nearer venue where you can still experience adventure but still with nature. I’m referring to Mapawa Nature Park.

Image Source | www.sportales.com

The park is located at Malasag, Cugman, Cagayan de Oro where you can have a taste of excitement and extreme adventure with nature. Cable cart, horse-back riding, mentioning camping grounds, are just some of what you can do at the park.

5. Learn Something New!

Maybe it’s time to learn a new hobby. Time to keep yourself busy during the summer, and at the same time, to have fun doing a thing you haven’t done before? Well, it would be a more meaningful summer when you are able to continue learning. Here are activities you can take part of within the city.

Sports

Are you a sports enthusiast? Or the other way around? It’s not too late to learn sports. Aside that it can make you physically and mentally fit, it also makes your summer more enjoyable. Here are available sports classes within the city.

Profluid Swim Aquatic Training

Image SOurce | Facebook: Profluid Swim Aquatic Training page

Available among Kagay-anons who want to learn how to swim is Profluid Swim Aquatic Training which is the only swimming school in Mindanao that is affiliated with United States Swimming School Association.

Their services include swimming stroke assessment, short-term training programs such as learning how to swim, water safety and survival, and self-rescue swimming, and long-term programs with the likes of fitness swimming, open-water swimming and competitive swimming. So, if you want not only to become a mere swimmer, but an efficient swimmer, they can help you.

Dancing

Do you know how to dance? No? Well, that’s unnecessary as long as you can keep up with the beat. And I am talking about Zumba.

Popular in the past few years is this Zumba which is a dance fitness program. It’s actually hitting two birds in one stone. Not that you become physically fit, but after some time, you’ll be able to learn dancing. I mean, efficient and impressive dancing skills. Notice the Zumba sessions around the city, like that of Ayala Centrio Mall and Vicente de Lara Park? Usually, zumba sessions at the said venues commence during late afternoon. Here are other locations where Zumba sessions are being held.

Baking

Image Source | Facebook: Monster Kitchen Academy page

Did you know that baking is fun? You will realize how enjoyable it is when you enroll any baking classes as hosted by either of Monster Kitchen Academy or Sweet House Pastry School. Both are effective schools that have already produced promising bakers in the city and of the Philippines.

Image Source | Facebook: Sweet House Pastry School page

6. Feast your Eyes!

Lazy enough to participate such sports sessions or baking classes this summer? The hot weather must have drained all your energy. Unless, you really prefer to just stay at home or somewhere else that gives you comfort.. Well, there are things which you can do at any of these venues. How about watching movies?

Image Source | jobsforeveryjuan.com

When at home, you can just set up your movie players, may it be through your computer or mobile phones. Or you can go to movie houses that lets you watch movies but with hourly rate. Since there are an unlimited choices of movies nowadays where you can just download them or stream via internet, it’s definitely one of everyone’s past time.

7. Pamper your Body and Feel Relaxed!

Is the summer heat making you feel uncomfortable and stressed out? Maybe your body needs caring. It would be the best time to have a massage therapy session.

This summer, Bambu Springs has a lot to offer. Check their poster below and see what we meant.

Image Source | Bambu Springs page

Enjoy Summer Promos!

The weather may be so harsh towards us but really, summer gives us the opportunities to enjoy some of the promos only in the said season can be offered.

Image Source | Facebook: Primavera Cdo

To mention some of the promos, anyone can enjoy Summer Skin Care from Primavera Cdo, Havaianas Getaway Bag in Centrio, “Summer is more fun at Ystilo Salon” Promo by Ystilo Salon in Limketkai Mall, Summer Sale by Petworld in Limketkai and more.

See! There are definitely a lot of ways on how to enjoy summer in order to forget about the troubling and discomforting hot weather conditions. It just depends on what you prefer, but most especially, it would always be better to spend the summer vacation with the whole family. May it be going to the beach or pool resorts, discovering new adventures, learning new hobbies, movie marathon, or any other ways you can think of. Just a reminder, don’t get overexposed under the heat of the sun so as to avoid dehydration and worse, heat stroke. Always apply suncream before heading outside! May you have a super fun and meaningful summer!

The post 7 Ways to BEAT THE HEAT: What to Do in Cagayan de Oro this Summer appeared first on About Cagayan de Oro.