This summer, most people spend their time on the beach, island tour, snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities which they enjoy doing under the sun. Some would go out of town together with their families and/or friends to spend their summer vacation in different tourist destinations.
As for me, since I don't have much time for summer vacation, I decided to go on a road trip together with my boyfriend on the mountains of Balamban, Cebu. We visited some of the famous places here in Cebu, the "Buwakan ni Alejandra" and "Balwarte ni Alfredo".
BUWAKAN NI ALEJANDRA
It is known for its beautiful vibrant flower garden which consists of different kinds of ornamental flowers and plants that were beautifully arranged in its wide and spacious area.
Before we arrived, we travelled using a motorcycle for almost an hour from Lapu-Lapu City. Since we are not very familiar on how to get there, we used the google map as our guide on our way to the destination. As we go along the way up through the mountains, I can feel the cool breeze all around as we go higher and higher.
Even if the sky was very clear and the sun was shining bright that day, I can still feel the chill on my skin which makes me raise my hands and waive it above my head and feel the cool air on my palms. It was very relaxing and calming that you can forget all about your problems, frustrations, and worries, just enjoy and feel the moment. I was getting more excited as we get closer to our destination because I already felt the positive and relaxing vibe while we were still on our way.
Finally, as we got there, we go to the ticket booth before we enter. The entrance fee is very affordable.
Entrance Fees:
Adult: PHP 75
Ages (6-10): PHP 50
Senior and PWD: PHP 50
5 years old below: FreeNote: Present your senior citizen and Pwd ID
Finally, when we entered the garden, the staffs greet us with a warm welcome and they gave us a brief instruction as where to start and where to exit. They told us to start at the heart entrance and follow the way.
The staffs working there are very generous, they are always ready to assist and guide you. They also offer to take pictures of you, so you don't have to worry if you don't have anyone to take pictures for you. Also, not to mention, they were really good on taking pictures (which I really like). Its really nice to know that there are actually places like this which has that kind of service. It gives convenience for the visitors, and allow them enjoy the beauty of the place and gives them more time to wander.
As we go along the way, we were truly amazed by the beauty of this garden. We've seen different kinds of ornamental flowers which we just saw for the first time. The flowers are very colorful and delightful. They have also very refreshing smell, which perfectly suits the coolness of the atmosphere. I felt very calm and comfortable being surrounded by these flowers. It gives me the peace of mind. This place is very perfect if you want take a break from the city.
The flowers were arranged and organized well. This place is great if you want to have a memorable and sweet moments together with your love one. You can also bring your own foods or snacks inside (no corkage fee) just as what we did. We brought some snacks inside, we have a mini picnic as we took break and sat on the grass.
They also allow wedding prenups and photoshoots, debut photoshoots here at very affordable rate. Perfect indeed, coz you don't have to pay for the decorations, the garden is ready for you.
There is also a restaurant inside, where they offer delicious foods and drinks for the visitors. But we don't get the chance to taste their foods. It's past 4 o'clock PM when we finished wandering around the awesome flower garden. Since the sun is about to set, we have decided to go the another place nearby, where there is a perfect view during sunset, at "Balwarte ni Alfredo".
BALWARTE NI ALFREDO
Balwarte ni Alfredo is just a few meters away from the "Buwakan ni Alejandra".
They offer here delicious foods like Batchoy, Siomai sa Tisa, Takoyaki, Burgers, and many more in their menu. Their foods are also very affordable but tastes really good. Balwarte ni Alfredo is also a well-known tambayan place in Balamban, Cebu.
Most riders come here, aside for its delicious foods it has also a peaceful and calm ambiance. This place is a perfect spot to view the sunset. It has an overlooking view from the ocean which makes it even more attracting and magical as we watch the sun sets on the horizon.
After the sunset, we decided to finally drive home.
When we were driving home, it was already night and we suddenly stopped at the side road as we saw the beautiful lights in the City. It seems like they were a sea of stars as they shine brightly in the dark of the night. We paused for a moment and watch the beauty of the City Lights.
Then we continue to drive home safely as we brought with us memorable moments from these places.
If you are planning to have a short break from the frustrations, hassles, and stress, I really recommend this place. Considering its very affordable rates (budget friendly), you will have a wonderful experience. There are a lot of restaurants, spots, hotels, and camping site in Balamban, Cebu which you can visit anytime.
See you on my next Trip!