Thousands of 'penis fish' exposed on California beach

LOS ANGELES, United States — Thousands of marine worms dubbed "penis fish" for their shape and color appeared this week on a California beach after a strong winter storm exposed them.

The creatures -- more commonly known as fat innkeeper worms -- covered Drakes Beach, 50 miles north of San Francisco.

Despite their eye-catching appearance, the pulsating worms which reach around 10 inches are adept at digging U-shaped burrows on beaches and marshes, using the tunnels to catch food.

Found almost exclusively in California, they are themselves considered a culinary delicacy in South Korea, with reputed aphrodisiac effects.

"Yes, the physical design of the fat innkeeper worm has some explaining to do," wrote biologist Ivan Parr. "But the fat innkeeper is perfectly shaped for a life spent underground."

Parr explained in a column on the Bay Nature website this week that fossil evidence of the animals dates back at least 300 million years.

"They are preyed on by otters, flounders, sharks, rays, gulls, and humans," the latter of whom eat them as sashimi, fried or grilled.

In this case the worms were caught out by heavy rain.

"We're seeing the risk of building your home out of sand," noted Parr.

"Strong storms... are perfectly capable of laying siege to the intertidal zone, breaking apart the sediments, and leaving their contents stranded on shore.

The beach is named after Francis Drake, who is believed to have landed here in 1579 during his circumnavigation of the globe.

source: philstar.com

Taiwanese woman fined for wearing string bikini in Boracay

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — For wearing a bikini that was described as “literally a string“ while strolling on a beach in Boracay, a Taiwanese tourist has been fined P2,500.

Personnel of the Malay police said they brought the woman and her boyfriend to the police station a day after photos of her and her boyfriend, also a Taiwanese, on Puka beach went viral on social media.

“What she did was more of a public indecency. We issued her a citation ticket,” Maj. Jess Baylon, Malay police chief, said.


Baylon said the woman violated Section 5 of Municipal Ordinance 203. However, what the provision prohibits is “taking lewd or excessively erotic pictures.”

The ordinance regulates the activities of photographers in Malay.


Baylon said the Taiwanese couple claimed they were models. “She said she was just expressing herself. She didn’t know she was violating something,” he said.

 “I’m confident about myself. It’s just normal for us,” Baylon quoted the woman as saying.

It was learned that the couple arrived in Boracay on Tuesday and left yesterday.

source: philstar.com

Zero-tolerance vs litterbugs in Boracay

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will adopt a zero-tolerance policy against litterbugs in Boracay after trash was found on the beaches during the first day of the dry run of the island’s reopening, an official said yesterday.

Photos of discarded trash along Boracay’s famous White Beach went viral on social media hours after the island was reopened to local tourists for a test run ahead of its scheduled reopening on Oct. 26.

DENR Undersecretary for solid waste management and local government unit Benny Antiporda said they would strictly enforce the guidelines against littering on the island.


Antiporda said they held a dialogue with the Compliant Association of Boracay (CAB) whose members include owners of hotels, resorts, retail shops and restaurants.

He said the DENR and other government agencies in charge of Boracay’s rehabilitation support the CAB’s proposal to designate its pollution officers as marshals to go after litterbugs.

He asked CAB members to use social media to remind Boracay visitors to dispose of their trash properly.

The DENR also recommended citizen’s arrest against litterbugs, Antiporda said.

The CAB earlier asked Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu to deputize its members as Boracay marshals to police public areas on the island.

As marshals, the CAB said their pollution officers would be on the lookout for litterbugs.

The DENR said littering is a criminal offense and violators may face a fine or be made to render community service from eight to 16 hours.

Under Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, establishments are required to designate a pollution control officer who would ensure compliance with the law, among others.

source: philstar.com

Beauty and the beach

The hashtag #LaBoracay2014 has gotten much attention on social media this week, with mixed reactions from all sectors — some are amused and excited, others are disgusted at the conspicuous display of bodies and bikinis this side of “thin-seltown.”

It’s  the peak of summer, if you haven’t noticed, ladies and gents, time to brighten up, get that Belo sunblock, take off your clothes (not all of them)) head over to our 7,107 beautiful islands and Instagram away. And don’t forget to hashtag.

Last week’s hottest beach shebang? #CenturySuperbods2014 drew a stellar mix of the country’s biggest stars, a standout selection of the best bodies and nonstop workouts to make sure we get to maintain that “transformation.” The T-word was the big buzz for the season, as everyone awaited the unveiling of a shirtless John Lloyd Cruz in Boracay.

Leading to that grand unveil was a Zumba-thon in the morning, with participants doing nonstop workouts. The BNO Boys hosted while everyone got possessed with the heat and sweat of the morning sun. I must compliment the transformation of the BNO Boys, who underwent the Century challenge and really showed great results! Credit for all the transformation goes to fitness coach Jim Saret and nutritionist Nadine Tengco, who I promise, will be my new best friends. Hello, Century!

I had promised everyone I was going to Zumba with them as soon as I woke up from the past night’s festivities, but I preferred to Zumba in bed — in my dreams. Must remind myself to be more disciplined, to think like a Superbod!

The best Superbods batch 

The White Party the night before was equally eventful. The #CenturySuperbods contestants were formally introduced by host Gelli Victor to the sizable media delegation present. It was not easy to have favorites since almost everyone looked like a winner — a truly spectacular and very international Superbods batch — half Italian, Dutch, Spanish, Chinese, American and pure Pinoy, too! From the point of view of someone who’s been judging this competition for a few years now, this is, indeed, the best #CenturySuperbods batch ever.

Joey Mead King, that rock star of a supermodel mentor and Asia’s top, top model herself, started the ball rolling as soon as she rocked that ramp and grabbed that mic. I am amazed each time she does her runway-slash-hosting duties — how she commands the floor and makes you sit up and take notice. She also coached the contestants with their walk and how to carry themselves best. The smooth styling of the show, directed by Robby Carmona, another stalwart in his field, was more than evident in how fast-paced it was. Never a dull moment, each segment was a highlight! Standouts in the audience were Nanette Medved-Po, forever a vision in pristine style, and Marielle Santos-Po, wearing Rajo Laurel’s Palawan summer collection.



Then came Anne Curtis, and the world stopped. She put one leg out in her flowing Charina Sarte lapis lazuli beach dress and owned the stage like no one else can. This was the perfect lead-up to the night’s transformatory unveil. A cleanly unshaven John Lloyd Cruz walked onto the center of the stage. Everyone went wild. He then took his floral buttoned shirt off, waved it to the crowd, to reveal him wearing a sando — a leaner, meaner John Lloyd Cruz, “macho” dancing in front of the audience. “From Superbad, I’m now a Superbod!” Even in these “heated” circumstances, JLC’s sense of humor shines through.

“Why didn’t John Lloyd take his shirt off?” ranted some of my followers on social media. Because he didn’t have to. Transformation doesn’t mean abs. It means a change in mindset and lifestyle. It is both internal and external. He went on a strict diet, lost close to 20 lbs. and looks happier and healthier. In the end, that should be the goal — to be happy and healthy. Abs optional.

Postscript to the announcement of winners after a few months of intense training and grueling challenges — Mario Lumba and Sara Polverini emerged as this year’s #CenturySuperbods. The runners-up and the special awards went to the other early favorites, who, I must say, made judging this year extra difficult but extra pleasurable.

And then fun times at the after party at The District with DJ Mars Miranda. Time to take a dip in this Labor Day weekend sun. But I won’t take my shirt off.

source: philstar.com

A Palawan getaway at Two Seasons

MANILA, Philippines - There’s a new resort in beautiful Palawan that has been making waves with its world-class facilities and amenities that make it one of the best vacation destinations in the Philippines —Two Seasons Island Resort and Spa.




Two Seasons has two beaches — one on the west and another on the east — that are dotted by tropical gardens, lush mangroves, a house reef and a scenic sandbar that connects to an islet.

The tropical-inspired bungalow accommodations offer privacy and serenity as well as easy access to the beach. Choose from 42 bungalows with views all around and some even equipped with their own Jacuzzi on the veranda. Accommodations are luxurious, well-appointed and  filled with all the amenities you need for an indulgent stay.

A visit to Two Seasons will not be complete without experiencing the soulful bliss that the Narra Spa offers. From its inviting interiors filled with gorgeous narra furniture and indigenous artisan decor to relaxing massages, it can rival popular exclusive spa centers in the world. Highly trained massage therapists provide soothing treatments such as Asian, Polynesian and Contemporary Cosmopolitan while lying on Earthlite spa beds. There are also yoga and meditation classes for a holistic body, mind and soul rejuvenation.

The resort is home to the Pawikan Aqua Sports Center, which provides equipment rental and dive master services for certified divers while non-divers can have the same underwater thrill with the guided Hydrobob Submersible Scooter that allows 180 degrees of clear water views. For those who want to learn how to dive, the facility offers PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) Beginner Courses and PADI Advanced Courses.




Those who crave water sports action will enjoy stand-up paddle boarding, wake boarding, kite boarding, water skiing, sport fishing, banana boat ride, snorkeling and wind surfing.  Kayaking gets an extra kick with the Molokini transparent kayak that allows for visibility of coral reef and underwater sea life.


Day trips to some of the scenic landmarks of Coron that include two lakes and two snorkeling sites are must-do for guests.

Out-of-water activities include board games, computer stations, game rooms, a gymnasium, karaoke room, a pool table and adult and kiddie pools. There’s also a library, a souvenir shop and a gym for health buffs. A well-equipped conference room is available for company or business clients.


Two Seasons can also be the perfect place to have that dream wedding, in the grade or the beachfront or the chapel.

Two Seasons offers are complimentary buffet breakfast, Internet access in select areas, free use of non-motorized water sports equipment and roundtrip land and boat transfers, room service, and flight bookings and island transfer assistance among others

Two Seasons Island Resort and Spa also boasts of being the first eco-friendly island resort in Coron. For information, call 410-2075 to 80; fax  732-1747/ 411-8209, e-mail bliss@twoseasonsresorts.com, visit www.twoseasonsresorts.com or drop by the office at Nena Building, 132-A Bayani Street, corner Araneta Avenue, Quezon City, 1113.

source: philstar.com

Palawan, Boracay top World’s Best Islands list

MANILA, Philippines - Palawan has dislodged Boracay as the best island for international travelers, based on a recent survey conducted by New York-based Travel+Leisure magazine.

This is the first time that Palawan became part of the international travel magazine’s list, even pushing Boracay, which previously ruled the rankings, to second place.

In the survey dubbed “2013 World’s Best” conducted from December 2012 to April 2013, Travel+Leisure magazine readers gave Palawan a score of 95.04 points as against Boracay’s 93.58.




The respondents selected for the survey rated the islands based on their natural attractions and beaches as well as their activities, food and people.

Palawan and Boracay beat other world-famous islands in the list, even those that are in Travel+Leisure’s hall of fame.

The island of Maui in Hawaii ranked third this year, followed by Santorini in Greece and Prince Edward Island in Canada.



Other islands in the top 10 list were Bali in Indonesia, Kauai in Hawaii, Sicily in Italy, Koh Samui in Thailand and the Galapagos in Ecuador.

Last year, Palawan hogged the limelight after its famous tourist attraction, the Puerto Princesa Underground River, was named one of the new seven wonders of nature.


source: philstar.com

Nun takes pictures of a girl in a bikini before Pope Francis' arrival in Rio de Janeiro

RIO DE JANEIRO—A nun takes pictures of bathers before the arrival of Pope Francis on Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro on July 26.

It was reported that Pope Francis, Latin America’s first pope, received a warm welcome in Brazil even though violent protests have marred his visit.

source: interaksyon.com

The age of Discovery

MANILA, Philippines - How do you top paradise?

How do you make “the best” even better?

That’s the challenge for any beach resort on the Philippines’ most famous beach island of Boracay. But only Discovery Shores has a winning formula that’s been singled out by Travel + Leisure magazine, which named it the “Top Hotel Spa in Asia” in its 2012 survey, and included it on its World’s Best Hotels list for three years running.

We were there for a special media event during Earth Hour — Discovery Shores was awarding its annual “Top Producers,” those travel agencies that had generated the most bookings for the resort paradise. Awardees were flown in to the island (by sponsor Seair) and pampered with a two-night stay. As Discovery Shores sales and marketing director Joy Anne C. Denoga told us, it was a night to showcase “the best of the best.” Toward that end, we enjoyed an excellent beachside menu of Alaskan gindara and grilled Palawan lobster prepared by a two-Michelin star chef, Anthony Raymond. We watched, during the lights-out Earth Hour, as the Manila Boys and Girls Black Light Theater lit up the shoreline with a fluorescent spectacle (set to Katy Perry’s Fireworks, Black Eyed Peas’ Time of My Life, et al) that trumpeted the resort’s special place in the pantheon of Bora beach getaways.

Again, how does Discovery Shores excel at something that’s practically perfect already? Boracay is regarded as one of the top beach destinations in the world. Not to take anything away from the proud awardees (Hana Tours, which does a brisk business in selling Korean honeymoon and wedding packages to Discovery Shores, won the top honors), but how hard can it be to sell tickets to paradise? Well, it turns out it’s this extra effort that makes the resort such a memorable experience. While agreeing that write-ups in Travel + Leisure, The New York Times and even the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World guide are “a great help, a boost in our popularity,” Denoga said that maintaining Discovery Shore’s excellence becomes even more important: “We need to make sure that we do deliver, because people have high expectations. We want to deliver because, honestly, it’s good for the Philippines. It’s really about local pride.”

So how do they go the extra mile? Well, it’s worth noting that, in Discovery Shores, your enjoyment is meant to be seamless: from the moment you enter the wooden platform and check in until you check out. Your initial view of the beachfront is mesmerizing. “It’s like entering a dream,” Therese remarked, gazing at the serene blue waters, the perfect sky, the paddle boarders lazily drifting by, the trademark white globes and cocktail tables dotting the sand. And from the moment you arrive, your experience is meant to be effortless. Yet, as with most effortless things, it’s not surprising to learn that lots of people are working behind the scenes to make yours a memorable stay. We noticed first, upon entering our room, a banner welcoming us for our stay; then we spotted a dessert dish with chocolates and a cupcake topped by the Philippine STAR logo. Other little touches — the iPod dock, the wooden tic-tac-toe game, the bedside rack of classic Western novels (The Great Gatsby, Sense and Sensibility, etc.) — remind you this is a place that’s always seeking to win you over.


Well, they had us at the incredible junior suite (one of 88 available rooms), with its raised bed and personal foot-bathing area; the balcony that’s perfect for gazing out across the Boracay treeline and swimming  pool below; they continued to raise the bar as we sauntered past the lobby desk (with its glass jar of Easter cookies for guests to nibble), its billiards table and children’s recreation room and library with computers for Internet use; then it was a stroll down to the (still) perfect white-powder sand to a couple of sprawling beach chairs, where we were quickly attended to by Discovery Shores’ staff (beachfront butlers) who presented beach towels and a cool carafe of pandan water. Later, if you need a ride to D’Mall or other Bora locations, just ask: Discovery Shores provides free shuttle service.



 Then there was the jar of Choconut candies discreetly placed at our table as we waited for our al fresco lunch to arrive. Not a moment passed when our needs went unattended.



So: just imagine you’ve arrived at the Pearly Gates, and you see Saint Peter standing there. And you sheepishly ask, “Do you have anything up here that’s… just a little bit more special?”

That’s Discovery Shores.

Located at Station 1’s White Beach, set back comfortably from its commanding beachfront, this resort still offers the bluest waters, the nicest sand to squash between your toes, and that extra bit of seclusion that’s getting harder to come by in Station 2’s summer party zone. Yet you’re still a barefooted beach walk away from the action, if that’s what you crave.

Food is something else that sets Discovery Shores apart. With chef Raymond as the executive chef of Discovery properties (previously he was with Peninsula Hotel Beverly Hills, preparing for a flurry of very particular Hollywood stars), the food at Indigo is awesome enough to earn it two features in Philippine Tatler’s Best Restaurants List, as well as being shortlisted in the 2010/2011 Miele Guide to Asia’s Best Restaurants.

Resident manager Leeds Trompeta pointed out that Discovery Shores has a loyal following of repeat guests, people who book their next three or four stays in advance, sometimes even the same rooms. And let’s not forget weddings: Discovery Shores arranges about 15-20 a year, from elaborate to simple, all of them memorable — like the American/Filipina couple who held a full-scale nuptial on the beachfront just a day before our arrival, complete with a seven-foot wedding cake. The staff works with wedding planners and guests to get every detail right. The wedding and honeymoon market is particularly strong among Korean guests, notes Trompeta.

Another highlight was a visit to Discovery Shore’s award-winning Terra Spa. The 90-minute Terra’s Touch signature treatment is thoroughly relaxing: choose from four oil blends — Alaga with rosemary and ginger (soothing), Sigla with lemongrass and peppermint (energizing), Gayuma with ylang ylang and palmarosa essential oils (for romance) or Hulay with ylang ylang and lavender oils (for relaxing). Let Scott describe his experience: “Being a Gemini, I’m attuned to a certain symmetry in most things: my left and right side should be equally balanced, especially during a massage. At Terra, I was pleased to find that the series of signature strokes was delivered with exactly the same pressure and in the same sequence to both my right and left sides.” (Yes, that’s a little OCD, but Geminis do notice such things.)

Therese, always on the lookout for the best ways to take the hurting from her flamenco-abused feet, also tried the one-hour Dagdagay, a native treatment in which two sticks are used to massage the feet to stimulate blood circulation. “Though the therapist scratching your feet with the sticks takes some getting used to (I was trying not to laugh, actually), the rolling motions were really soothing. I can’t wait to do this again in Manila!”

Discovery Shores is the kind of place where people like to nestle and feel at home. Seeing those colored globes and tables lighting up the beach at night, wandering its tranquil wooden walkways, curling up with a book or a drink on its shaded lounge chairs and sofas — surrounded by the pacifying sound of waves crashing into the shore — you feel something akin to being home. This is the experience that Discovery Shores has raised to a level as fine as the white sands.


 To book your stay at Discovery Shores this summer, contact 719-8888 in Manila, e-mail inquiry@discovery.com.ph  or dsbrsvn@discovery.com.ph, or visit their website (www.discoveryshoresboracay.com).

source: philstar.com

The 8th Manila Surfers Cup: ‘Baywatch’ with a tide of philanthropy

On the first day of the 8th Manila Surfers Cup held last February 23 to 24 in San Juan, La Union, a commotion on the edge of the beach diverted the spectators’ attention from the rivalry at sea.

A surfer’s leash had caught in the rocks, and she was struggling to get it off her ankle or risk getting towed by the waves. Another surfer immediately came to her rescue, bringing her back to the shore and pulling her wayward surfboard along.

It was a Baywatch moment if there ever was one. And when one hangs out with the Manila Surfers Association, the organizers and participants of the event, such incidents can become everyday concerns. Or in the case of these city-bred swell-seekers who head straight for the beach as soon as work ends on Fridays, every weekend.






There is another story of a novice surfer who had paddled out too far, getting caught in the river-mouth where the currents can be brutal. He tries to make his way back to safety, but the water is too powerful. He waves his arms in the air, hoping his companions at the beach spot him. They wave back, thinking he is just saying hello.

He tries again, his arms knifing through the water, though they feel like jelly by now. He prays that he can make it. And as he struggles, another surfer arrives. He tries to warn him to stop in his tracks. Except the newcomer doesn’t understand what he’s saying and swims forward anyway.

The beginner is rescued by this stranger, who paddles against the strong current for both of them.

It’s not all about the drama with the Manila Surfers Association, though. Just like any other community, they make fun of each other, whether it be about their form in the water, a botched attempt at riding a wave, or the latest girl or guy they have their eye on. They tease the competitors for their ripped abs, cheer them on for conquering the whitewater, and despair at an otherwise spectacular ride suddenly spoiled by the elements.

And because surfing competitions are filled with endless commentary from the emcees holding court at the sand, microphone in hand, these jibes are for all on the stretch of beach to hear.



Aside from having fun, though, these surfers also give back to the community regularly. During the 8^th Manila Surfers Cup, they presented school materials and previously used computers to the pupils and teachers of Quirino Elementary School, Urbiztondo Elementary School, and Lingsat Elementary School.

Anyone who wants to make an impact in these beachside communities can feel free to send their donations to the Manila Surfers Association during their next competition. They can join or help out the MSA by logging on to www.facebook.com/manilasurf.


Meanwhile, here are the results of the 8th Manila Surfers Cup.

Men’s Longboard Novice Competition:
Champion: Vinni Sanchez
1st Runner Up: Jay Sueno
2nd Runner Up: Mike Eijansantos

Wahine Longboard Novice Competition:
Champion: Coco Brite
1st Runner Up: Toni Jazmin
2nd Runner Up: Ana Abad Santos

Men’s Longboard Open Competition:
Champion: Philip Santiago
1st Runner Up: Jeremy Ramilo
2nd Runner Up: Kiddo Cosio
3rd Runner Up: Ely Cresencio

Wahine Longboard Open Competition:
Champion: Mia Sebastian
1st Runner Up: Bea Vega
2nd Runner Up: Tin Terible
3rd Runner Up: Jam Choa

Men’s Shortboard Open Competition:
Champion: Seth Tan
1st Runner Up: Rafu Nepumuceno
2nd Runner Up: Vic Gamboa
3rd Runner Up: Pete Domingo

Invitational Division Champions:
Men’s Longboard: Buji Libarnes
Wahine Longboard: Lorraine Lapus
Men’s Shortboard: Lui Tortuya
Wahine Shortboard: Nikki dela Paz

source: interaksyon.com

Boracay, Puerto Galera resort projects bag tax perks from BOI

MANILA - Two projects in two of the country's most popular tourist destinations bagged tax and other perks from the Board of Investments (BOI).

In a statement, the BOI on Monday said it approved fiscal incentives for a P2-billion five-star resort hotel that Boracay Seascapes Resort Inc will put up in the world-class island resort. Called the Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay, the project qualified for incentives under the 2012 Investment Priorities Plan (IPP).



Boracay Seascapes Resport is a unit of FDC Hotel Corp, which in turn is a subsidiary of Filinvest Development Corp.

Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay will rise on a 2.9-hectare tract of land in Barangay Yapak. The resort hotel will have up to 200 guest rooms as well as banquet facilities, a chapel, food and beverage outlets, a game room, a gym, a kid’s club, a salon, a spa, a swimming pool and water sports facilities.

Groundbreaking for the resort hotel is scheduled within the first quarter of this year while commercial operations would start in December 2017. The project will generate 285 jobs.

The second project costing P419.3-million is called the Talipanan Infinity Paradise Resort, which the company of the same name will build in Talipanan, Poblacion, Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro.

The resort will have 70 rooms. Operations will begin in December, and 88 workers will be hired.

The BOI said these projects would help hit the government’s targets of over seven million tourism jobs and 10 million tourist arrivals by 2016 under the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP).

Launched last year, NTDP calls for tourism investments worth P265 billion and the construction of more than 50,000 hotel and resort rooms between 2012 and 2016.

source: interaksyon.com

Attention, ladies! In time for summer, learn to surf at the Billabong all-girls camp

The waves are calling, but not everyone is brave enough to answer.

This is why Billabong, the world’s go-to brand of boardshorts and bikinis for beach lovers and surf enthusiasts, is hosting its second all-girls surf camp in San Juan, La Union, from March 15 to 17.

Professional surfer and Billabong Asia athlete Luke Landrigan will show the ladies the ropes, just like he did for an intimate group of 20 last year, which included teenagers and mothers alike.

This is the ideal place to be for those who have always wanted to surf, but were too intimidated to do so. At the all-girls camp, everyone is on the same page, and at the same skill level. They won’t have to feel pressured to immediately coast the waves like they had already been doing so for years.

Aside from learning how to make their way through the breaks safely, participants will also get to know the man who emerged the first runner-up in the longboard division of last year’s Quiksilver Open West Java in Indonesia, and 2009 champ at the Aurora Surf Cup Challenge in Baler and the Nike 6.0 and Global Surf Industries Longboard Pro Invitationals in La Union.

But it’s not only riding the waves and doing some hard work during your stay. By sunset, sweet beats will be provided by DJs Joey Santos and Niki Rojas, who are regulars at party scene and music fests such as last year’s Aloha Boardsports Surf and Music Festival in La Union, Manila Music Festival, and Tagaytay Electronica Festival. Last year they obliged a participant who was into spinning and taught her how to DJ.

Ladies can look forward to Franco as well, who will be making music at the camp.

Fifty participants will be accommodated this year at the Billabong All-Girls Camp. Sign up at www.alohaboardsports.com, e-mail billabongsurfcampgirls@gmail.com, or call 0917-928-4583 for more information.

source: interaksyon.com

Hotel of the Week: Waimea Luxury Houses in Puerto Galera

Waimea Luxury Houses is located on Sabang Beach in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro. The easiest way to get there from Manila is by bus or private vehicle via Batangas pier. From there, several boat transfer options bound for Sabang are made available. In Puerto Galera, tricycles are the easiest way to get to the Waimea Luxury Houses.

















Website
http://www.agoda.com/asia/philippines/puerto_galera/waimea_luxury_houses_el_galleon_dive_resort_annex.html

Price specials
Regular discounts available year-round on Agoda.com





What makes this hotel a stand out?
Unlike anything else in Puerto Galera, Waimea’s three luxury private villas are a five- minute walk to El Galleon beach resort but offer the privacy of one’s own home. Set in a lush tropical garden, the private villas are built around a gorgeous pool. Each villa has been tastefully decorated, complete with essential amenities. The villas are divided into two sections: downstairs is a self-contained studio flat that is separate from the main house, and the top floor of the villa has two en-suite bedrooms, a mezzanine with balcony, spacious living and dining areas, and kitchen.

What Agoda guests are saying
“A great compound back on the hillside with its own pool and nice landscape. Great view of palms trees out to the ocean.”
—Edwin T, Couple from the US, October 2012

“Conveniently located from the next door Asia Divers, with a bit more modern flair and clean environment compared to the nearby original hotel.”
—Riwa S, family with older children from the UK, September 2012

“Perfect place. The staff members were great; the place is spotlessly clean; we really loved the place and would stay there again.”
—David K, couple from Australia, August 2012

source: interaksyon.com

Australian surfer in bloody shark attack

SYDNEY - A surfer has been savaged by a shark off a remote west Australian beach in the sixth serious incident in the state in less than a year, with witnesses Wednesday telling of water "full of blood."

The man, reported to be in his 30s, was bitten on the abdomen and suffered severe injuries to his right arm while trying to fend off the shark at far-flung Red Bluff -- a popular surf spot about 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) north of Perth.

A fellow surfer dragged the man onto his board and brought him ashore after Tuesday afternoon's attack, with witnesses recounting gruesome scenes.

"The water was full of blood," said local woman Rebecca Caldwell.

The man was wrapped in towels to stem blood loss and driven almost two hours down unsealed roads to a waiting ambulance, according to Caldwell's husband Jim, the local campground manager.

"We were keeping him talking, that was the main thing, to keep him coherent," Caldwell told The West Australian newspaper, describing the victim as "tough as nails."

"It was all about keeping the pressure on, the blood loss was our biggest concern."

It is the sixth serious attack off Australia's west coast in less than a year, with a fatality north of Perth last month -- the fifth in less than 12 months -- renewing debate about whether great whites should remain protected.

Most fatal attacks in the region involve great whites, among the largest shark species in the world and made famous by the horror movie "Jaws."

Western Australia Fisheries spokesman Tony Cappelluti told ABC radio it was "very difficult to speculate" what kind of shark it was in the latest attack, with tiger sharks "fairly prevalent" in the area but great whites also present.

Cappelluti said the beach was closed but due to its remoteness authorities were not likely to hunt the shark in question, with "resources a bit thin up there."

source: interaksyon.com

Boracay’s Famed White Sands Protected

KALIBO, Aklan (PIA) --- Persons caught carting off Boracay Island’s powdery white sand will be imposed stricter penalties with the recent amendment of a Malay, Aklan ordinance banning extraction and collection of white sand and pebbles from the country’s premier holiday destination’s beach.

The Malay Sangguniang Bayan implemented amendments in Municipal Ordinance 310 recently run in a local newspaper with an aim to stop the blatant extraction of white sand from the island.

“Boracay Island, a masterpiece of nature endowed by the Almighty with powdery white sand, is being gradually dissipated by man’s selfish interests without due regard to consequences,” the ordinance stated.

The imposition of stricter penalties provided in the ordinance was also anchored on the provision of the Constitution to protect and advance the people’s right to a balanced and healthy ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature and on the Local Government Code’s mandate for the protection of the environment and the imposition of appropriate penalties for acts endangering the environment.

With said amendments in place, first offenders caught extracting Boracay Island’s white sand will be fined P2,500 or imprisoned for a month or not more than three month, or both, at the court’s discretion.

For subsequent offenses, the ordinance imposes imprisonment of not less than three months or not more than six months.

The amended ordinance also said juridical persons, hotels, resorts, or business establishments violating the ordinance will be fined P2,500, imprisonment of not less than one month but not more than six months or both, to be imposed on the establishment’s president, manager, administrator, owner or proprietor.

If warranted, the offending establishments’ business permit may also be revoked.

Aside from the imposition of said stricter penalties, the offenders will also have to return to the beach the white sand and pebbles they extracted and collected.

source: mb.com.ph

No. 1 island prepares for Boracay Newcoast

MANILA, Philippines - It was only a matter of time. From No. 4 last year, Boracay Island has surged to No. 1 island in the world, according to British magazine Travel + Leisure.





With an aggregate score of 93.10, Boracay bested runner-up Bali and the previous year’s champion, Santorini, which was relegated to sixth place. Boracay was also named Asia’s Best Island, topping perennial favorites Bali and Phuket. The 2012 poll was conducted among the magazine’s jet-setting subscribers and the awards were held last July 19 at the Conrad Flagship Hotel in New York City.

It is likely that majority of the 700,000 foreign tourists who visited Boracay in the first half of the year — a 41 percent rise over the same period in 2011 — thoroughly enjoyed their stay and had a lasting impression of the island, that is why Boracay achieved such lofty status.

Such acclaim and the continued influx of tourists will only mean two things. First, Boracay will become a more popular destination worldwide with all the goodwill from top publications like Travel + Leisure plus good word-of-mouth from millions of past visitors. Second, more hotels must be built over the next few years to accommodate the rising number of tourists and delight them with the best of Filipino hospitality.

One expansive project within Boracay will help the island reach its true tourism potential. Boracay Newcoast on the island’s eastern side will rise as its first fully master-planned tourist hub. Covering 140 hectares and an estimated 14 percent of the island’s total area, Boracay Newcoast boasts its own private beach coves with a one-km. white sand beachfront.





According to Global-Estate Resorts Inc. (GERI) vice president for marketing and project head Abraham Mercado, “Boracay Newcoast has been master planned to raise the bar of tourist experience.” GERI is the developer behind Boracay Newcoast and is the tourism arm of Filipino tycoon Andrew Tan.

Five international and local hotels are set to be built within Boracay Newcoast and add 1,500 hotel suites to Boracay’s room inventory. More rooms will be added once investors start to operate their lodging offerings at Boracay Newcoast’s Boutique Hotel district. Their guests will also enjoy access to a private beach cove.

One of Boracay Newcoast’s hotels is set to transform Boracay into the Ibiza of Asia. Home to Boracay’s first and only pool concert arena, Savoy Hotel will host various electronic dance music festivals and concerts. Overlooking the pool and bar area is a 400-square-meter dance roof deck capping a row of commercial establishments.

Oceanway Residences, the first residential condominium cluster in Boracay, enjoys a prime location tucked between two greens of Fairways & Bluewater — the only championship golf course on the island — with resplendent views of the private white beach coves and Sibuyan Sea.

Over at the Shophouse District, tourists can stock up on Boracay souvenirs, dine on the freshest seafood, or schedule a dive to check out the island’s marine treasures, among others.

Guests who fall in love with the Boracay experience may opt for a permanent home at Newcoast Village, Boracay Newcoast’s first and only exclusive gated village. Mercado recommended that lot buyers take inspiration from the ocean villas in Bali, Phuket and Santorini to design their homes.

He added that with a capital-intensive and highly marketable project like Boracay Newcoast, Boracay’s long-term viability and tourism appeal are ensured for the long term.

And just as Boracay’s standing has surged within the global tourism industry, so does GERI, as the company reported an increase in reservation sales to P3 billion for the first five months of the year during its annual stockholders meeting last June 28. This means that investors have warmed up to the potential of integrated tourism projects like Boracay Newcoast, Mercado concluded.

source: philstar.com

American beaches laden with sewage, bacteria: study

WASHINGTON - US beaches can be dirty places, making about 3.5 million people sick each year from sewage in the water, said an annual study Wednesday that rates American beaches by how dirty they are.

The Natural Resources Defense Council report included 3,000 beaches nationwide and listed 15 "repeat offenders" that have turned up again and again in the pollution rankings.

Those included four beaches in Louisiana, Avalon and Doheny State Beaches in southern California, and select waterfront beaches in Ohio, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and Wisconsin.

Overall, the total number of beach closures and water quality advisories nationwide last year was the third highest in 22 years of monitoring, said the study.

"America's beaches are plagued by a sobering legacy of water pollution, including bacteria-laden human and animal waste," said NRDC Water Program Director Steve Fleischli.

"So when people dive into the ocean, it can make them sick with a range of waterborne illnesses including stomach flu, skin rashes, pink eye, ear nose and throat problems, dysentery, hepatitis, respiratory ailments, neurological disorders and other serious health problems."

Louisiana tallied the highest number of dirty samples (29 percent) that exceeded national standards for designated beach areas in 2011.

The southern state famed for its seafood and music and whose shoreline was among those sullied by the BP oil spill in 2010 ranked last out of 30 states measured for beachwater quality.

However, since the ranking was based on bacteria sampling in the waters, the problem was not solely attributable to the devastating oil spill, the NRDC said.

Instead, the main problem across most of America's beaches is polluted storm water runoff -- with more than 10 trillion gallons of untreated storm water making its way into surface waters each year, according to US Environmental Protection Agency estimates.

"The biggest known cause of beach closings and swimming advisories is polluted storm water runoff," said Fleischli.

"When it rains, the water carries trash, chemicals, oil, animal waste -- you name it -- off the paved streets of our communities into sewers and ultimately to our beach."

The environmental group appealed for tougher EPA standards on beach water quality and improved measures to halt runoff pollution and sewer overflows.

"EPA believes it is acceptable for one in 28 swimmers to become ill with gastroenteritis from swimming in water that just meets its proposed water quality criteria," said NRDC.

"This risk is unacceptably high and is not protective of public health."

As many as 3.5 million people get sick from coming in contact with raw sewage from sanitary sewer overflows every year, the EPA says.

The NRDC also listed the best beaches for water quality. The top beaches were in the northeastern states of Delaware (Dewey Beach) and New Hampshire (Hampton Beach State Park and Wallis Sands Beach).

Other five-star ratings went to Newport Beach in California, Ocean City Beach 6 in Maryland, and Gulf Shores Public Beach in Alabama.

No Florida beaches made the top 12 that received the five-star rating.

source: interaksyon.com