My friend in Bicol has been inviting me since December of last year (2010) to visit him but due to busy schedule during the year end I was not able to go there. I scheduled my trip 2nd week of February so I can prolong my stay until the Valentines Day. Unluckily, he was not free on my posted dates so I suddenly changed my schedule. I had to reset my vacation a week ahead.
Right after my Monday lunch break, I suddenly decided to have my 4-day vacation to Bicol so I filed a vacation leave dated February 2-4, 2011. After filing my leave, I went home directly so I can pack my things for the 4-day vacation. I was in a rush to pack up my things after all, I do not have any plans to go there yet that day. I packed my things as easy as 1, 2, 3 then I headed to Cubao Terminal at the back of Ali Mall. I got my ticket which costs 400 pesos, a cheaper price through Alps Bus bound for Legazpi City, Albay. It was cheaper compared to other bus maybe because it is 3x2 seater without restroom. But the air con is working good and also with television. The bus departed around 19:00.
I arrived in Naga City around 04:00. The city still quiet. Cool breeze of fresh air welcomed me. It made me feel I will enjoy my first time vacation in the region. Sadly, I was dropped off by the conductor at the wrong place, in front of the municipal hall of Pili City, which way too far from the landmark point I should get off from the bus. Bit nervous that time after all it is my first time to visit the place. Good thing there are already tricycle drivers waiting for passengers, I then asked one of the tricycle driver to dropped me at the landmark which I was supposed to be at. After couple of minutes, I arrived safely and walked a block away towards my friend's house. We had a coffee and chat with my friend. Good enough to make myself bit warm. After that, I took a sleep enable me to recharge myself from the long trip and to be ready for vacation.
I woke up around 10:00. After taking shower, my friend asked me then to visit the city. We headed first in SM City Naga, so we can have our lunch before going to visit the shrine. SM City Naga, is just a few blocks away from Naga City Central bus terminal and the Naga Coliseum. I ate Pinangat and the popular Bicol express though I am not a fan of spicy foods, I only made a try. It was mouth-watering lunch.
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| "our lunch" |
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| Finally in SM City Naga! |
The shrine is wonderful and I love the place. It is solemn. My eyes already proved that it can really draws hundreds of devotees on the month of September where the feast is being celebrated. I say a prayer and also I was able to touch the statue at the back. I made a wish as well, it is also a belief that when you make a wish inside a church on the first time you entered to it, possible it may come true.
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| Penafrancia Shrine Altar |
We as well stroll outside the shrine and visit the souvenir shop. Took time to take pictures. The surrounding is lush green.
After an hour of staying at the shrine, we went directly to the wet market. Stroll and I bought some souvenir "pasalubong" to my office mates. We ended up buying foods for the 4-day vacation. First day was awesome.
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