When I was asked to provide a half-body 2x2 photo, it honestly stressed me out. Not only because I couldn’t find anyone willing to take a “half-body photo that fits in 2x2”—but also because I got teased: “How can a half-body shot fit into such a tiny square?”
✨ Visiting Puerto Galera has always been one of my favorite trips from Manila—it’s close, affordable, and offers a perfect mix of beaches, waterfalls, and mountain views. But if you’re a first-timer, figuring out how to get there can feel a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry, I’ve been through the whole process (tricycles, ferries, and even water taxis!)—so here’s a comprehensive, updated guide to help you plan your trip.
✨ The first time I walked into the Calapan City Museum, I didn’t expect much—it’s tucked away inside the New City Hall complex in Brgy. Guinobatan. But what I found was a treasure trove of stories: photographs of leaders who shaped the city, coins and stamps that survived wars, and even a life-sized ossified statue of the tamaraw 🐃—Mindoro’s most iconic creature.
🌟 Must-See Attractions in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro
Every city has a heartbeat—and in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, you’ll feel it through its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From heritage museums to nature parks, from a quiet trek to Lamesang Bato 🌄 to the colorful underwater world at Harka Piloto Fish Sanctuary 🐠, Calapan is a place that invites you to pause and explore.
✨ Whether you’re in Calapan City for a quick getaway, a family visit, or as a stopover to other Mindoro destinations, finding the right place to stay is key. What I love most about Calapan is that accommodations here may not all be grand, but they’re full of warmth, local hospitality, and that Mindoreño charm.
Puerto Galera, a gem in Oriental Mindoro, is one of the Philippines’ most loved island getaways. With its white sand beaches, world-class diving spots, and laid-back coastal vibes, it’s no wonder why both local and foreign travelers keep coming back.
✨ Welcome to the Other Side of Ocean Park: Where the Little Things Make a Big Impact
Sure, Ocean Park is known for its adrenaline-pumping rides and wildlife wonders—but the “in-between” moments? They’re often just as memorable.
From cuddly panda encounters (or at least the hope of them!) to quirky food, fun merch, and festive events, these hidden corners added surprise and delight to our visit.
🧭 Welcome to Garden of Joy: A Gentle Pause in the Adventure
After conquering coasters and splash zones, Garden of Joy was a breath of fresh air—literally. Tucked away in a quieter part of Ocean Park, this Zen-inspired garden offered calm paths, traditional architecture, and nature’s gentle touch. 🌿
🌿 Where Wild Meets Wonderful
Tucked between Rainforest and Marine World, Animal Encounters 2.0 is Ocean Park’s newest animal walkthrough experience—redesigned in 2025 with immersive zones, open habitats, and more interaction than ever before.
This isn’t just a zoo exhibit. It feels like walking through a peaceful nature reserve, where animals roam comfortably and guests move quietly and curiously.
🧭 Welcome to the Summit & Transport Zones: Ride with a View, Travel with a Twist!
Sometimes, the ride to the ride is half the fun. That’s exactly what we found at Ocean Park’s Summit and Transport Zones—a collection of unique transportation experiences that turned even the transitions into unforgettable adventures.
While the Waterfront has the pandas and the Summit has the penguins… Thrill Mountain is where the screams echo, hearts race, and gravity-defying rides make you rethink your lunch choices. 😂 If you're an adrenaline junkie—or traveling with one—this is where you brace, scream, and grin like a maniac.
🐼 Amazing Asian Animals – Ocean Park’s Celebration of Asia’s Wildlife & Culture
If you love animals, cultural experiences, and a little bit of nature walk charm, Amazing Asian Animals at Ocean Park Hong Kong is your spot. Located in the Waterfront area, this zone feels like a beautiful mix of mini-zoo, botanical garden, and cultural village.
If you’re looking for a mix of nature, excitement, and immersive wildlife encounters, the Rainforest zone is the hidden gem of Ocean Park. Nestled between Thrill Mountain and Polar Adventure, it’s like stepping into a lush jungle—complete with animal exhibits, dense foliage, and the park’s only river rapids ride. 🌳🌧️🐒
🐳 Marine World – Thrills, Waves & Ocean Wonders at Ocean Park Hong Kong 🌊
Visiting Marine World was like stepping into the heart of Ocean Park’s ocean magic. 🎢🐬 From gliding above the sea on the Cable Car to staring into the mysterious eyes of a hammerhead shark, this zone is where the excitement is as vast as the South China Sea. Whether you’re here for marine life encounters, sky-high rides, or just soaking in the salty breeze, Marine World will keep you busy for hours.
🐠 Welcome to Aqua City: Where the Ocean Comes to Life
If the Summit is where the screams are, then the Waterfront is where the smiles live. 🧒👵 Compared to the thrill rides up top, Ocean Park’s Waterfront is perfect for families with kids, gentle souls, and—let’s be honest—people like me who’d rather skip the terrifying drops and just enjoy cute animals, scenic rides, and playful moments.
Personal Picks & Travel Tips from My Own Adventure
If you’re planning a quick trip to Hong Kong, don’t worry—you can still experience a lot in less than four days. This list covers 17 major attractions, including must-see sights, relaxing escapes, and a little time for pasalubong shopping. If you're lucky enough to have more than four days, even better! But if time is tight, these highlights are well worth squeezing into your itinerary.
If you're visiting Hong Kong and find The Peak Tower a little too crowded for your taste (like we did!), consider walking just a few steps further to The Peak Galleria. Nestled on the same scenic Victoria Peak, this lesser-known gem offers a more relaxed experience — without sacrificing the stunning views.
✨ 1881 Heritage: The Elegant Place I Almost Visited
🚶♀️While walking along Kowloon to get to the harbour for the Symphony of Lights, my friend and I passed by this glowing building wrapped in Christmas lights. It looked grand and elegant — and at that point in the evening, all I really wanted was to sit in a warm restaurant, eat something nice, and take it all in.
When we visited Hong Kong, I made sure that the Clock Tower was on our must-see list—especially after learning that it’s been a declared monument since 1990. It may seem like a small stop compared to the bustling skyline or theme parks, but to me, it symbolized a deeper connection to the city's colonial past.