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Here’s everything you need to know about this must-try delicacy from Ilocos, and where you can get one even if you're not in the region.
Also known locally as the Kiarong Mosque, the Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is the largest and most magnificent mosque in Brunei Darussalam. Built in 1992 to commemorate the 25th year of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s reign, this grand structure stands as a glowing symbol of faith, royalty, and architectural splendor.
If you're looking for a local restaurant in Brunei that serves delicious food, generous portions, and is budget-friendly — Kopi Bandar is the one. Nestled along the BSB Waterfront, this cozy spot became an instant favorite during our Brunei trip!
Have you ever been so excited to visit a place, only to get there and find out... it’s closed for renovation?
Well, that’s exactly what happened to me at the Brunei Museum — the National Museum and the largest museum in the country.
Mount Pinatubo is one of the most famous active stratovolcanoes in the Philippines, forever etched in history for its catastrophic eruption on June 15, 1991. It was the second largest terrestrial volcanic eruption of the 20th century, only surpassed by the 1912 Novarupta eruption in Alaska.
If you want to see how locals live, shop, and eat in Brunei, head over to Tamu Kianggeh, also known as Kampong Kianggeh Open Air Market. Situated right beside the Kianggeh River in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, this humble yet bustling market offers a genuine slice of everyday Bruneian life.
What was supposed to be a trek to Mt. Pinatubo quickly turned into a spontaneous sea-side experience at Ocean Adventure, Subic—and what a surprise adventure it turned out to be!
🌧️ A Rainy Change of Plans
Our group had already traveled for hours and reached the Mt. Pinatubo pit stop, only to find out the trek was canceled due to rain. We were already packed and ready, so instead of heading back, we decided to stay the night in Subic and visit Ocean Adventure.
🍳 Breakfast in the Barrio
We hadn’t eaten yet, so we asked a kind local family if we could cook breakfast at their house. They graciously let us use their kitchen, and we whipped up a simple but comforting meal of tuyo, sardines, and onions from a nearby sari-sari store.
(As a “thank you,” one of my friends started sweeping dried leaves in the yard—barter system, maybe? 😄)
🚗 Long Drive, Big Smiles
Since the visit wasn’t part of our package, we paid the driver Php3,000 to bring us to Ocean Adventure from Tarlac. The drive took more than 2 hours, but we managed to nap and recharge.
We arrived just in time—the park opens at 9:00 AM—and bought our entrance tickets.
🎟️ Entrance Fee (As of Latest Visit):
🦭 First Stop: Sea Lion Marine Patrol Show
We headed straight to the Sea Lion Point—just in time for the Sea Lion Marine Patrol Show! 🦭
It was my first time seeing an animal show, and while I felt a tinge of sadness for the animals, the trainers explained how these rescued animals are being cared for and rehabilitated. That gave me a bit of comfort.
📸 Photo Tip:
🐬 El Capitan Theater: Dolphin Delight
Next, we rushed to the Dolphin Show—and wow, it was so much more interactive and exciting! Though we didn’t get front-row seats, the show took place in an open ocean cove, which made it feel even more natural and lively.
The dolphins performed flips, spins, and splashes with their trainers. I would've loved a photo with them, but at Php500 for 2 pics, I settled with enjoying the moment and keeping it in my memory.
🐠 Underwater Fun: Ocean Discovery Aquarium
Before lunch, we strolled into the Ocean Discovery Aquarium—a beautifully curated exhibit featuring ecosystems like coral reefs, freshwater streams, mangroves, and even dark sea caves.
Perfect for people who want to admire marine life without
getting wet! 🌊
We giggled and explored like excited kids.
🍽️ Lunchtime Letdown
I was curious to see if the park served fresh seafood (since we were surrounded by it!). Sadly, it wasn’t as fresh as I hoped. Still, the meal filled us up for the rest of the day.
🎭 Eco-Theater Experience
Post-lunch, we caught the last show of the day at the Eco-Theater, which introduced us to the native Aetas’ way of life and featured some exotic animals.
It was informative, but honestly… I was sleepy from lunch, and the afternoon heat didn’t help. 😅 My friends, however, looked totally hooked.
🛍️ Souvenirs
We freshened up in the park’s clean shower area and passed by the souvenir shop before leaving. The items were lovely, but a bit pricey for my budget at the time.
Still, the day that almost got canceled turned into an unforgettable experience. I’ll definitely return someday—hopefully for a full weekend and a stay at the Camayan Beach Resort & Hotel, just next door.
📝 Travel Tips:
🌤️ Wear light and
breathable clothes
🚰
Bring lots of water
📷
Bring a camera with zoom to capture the dolphin show
🧴
Don't forget sunblock
🗺️
Grab a map of the park before exploring
📍 Ocean Adventure, Subic Bay, Philippines
🕘 Park Hours: 9:00
AM – 6:00 PM (Rain or Shine)
🎟️
Entrance Fee includes shows & aquarium access
🚗
How to Get There: Click here for directions
🏨
Nearby Attractions:
Plan a visit to Ocean Adventure in Subic and witness marine magic come alive—even under gray skies. 🐬
🎟️ Book your tickets early, and don’t forget a raincoat or umbrella just in case!
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