February 2019 - Isla Story

Isla Story

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Wednesday, February 27, 2019


Getting around the Philippines means you'll get to experience all sorts of transportation. From cabs, jeepneys, buses, and trains to renting your own private vehicle, neither you chose, the main goal is to have a smooth and worry-free trip. 


Currently, Subic Bay has been one of the emerging destinations in Central Luzon, Philippines. Well, we wouldn't even be surprised if it got a place on your bucket list right now. This place has so much more to offer than its deep protected waters and rich history. In here, a kaleidoscope of adventure and fun awaits for you!

However, roaming around Subic Bay might be a bit tricky for some especially if you don't have a private vehicle with you. That's why below is our fair guide of the things you should know about Subic Bay's Taxi Service:

Is there any public transportation in Subic Bay Freeport Zone?
No, jeepneys and tricycles are not allowed inside the Freeport Zone, that’s why you'll be left with having to choose between your hotel's shuttle services or booking a taxi. Well, you can also opt for the GrabTaxi since they are also now operating in Subic Bay.

What's the best way to get around?
Having your own private vehicle is really much better but for those who prefer commuting, a taxi ride is the best option for you. Hotel shuttle services have a specific schedule to follow unlike with taxis where you can book or hail a ride anytime you want. Taxis are also faster and kind of give you more privacy.

How to book Subic Bay taxis?
There are three ways to book for Subic Bay taxis. First one, you may call directly to the taxi booking service. Second, some have a website where you can book online. This way you can book your trips ahead of time and have the liberty to prepare for a better itinerary.  And lastly, if you are in a hurry, some taxis can be simply flagged from the road.

How does the Subic Bay Taxi Fare works?
Many people find Subic Bay Taxi rates a bit confusing. They don’t have a meter service making it a bit complex than those from the other areas in the Philippines that's why it's important to know how their system works.

For example, a phone booked trip from Central Business District going to Royal Duty Free will cost Php150. Here’s the breakdown: Php30 for the pickup charge from Central Business District, Php50 for the distance the taxi traveled from the Park N’ Shop/ Golden Dragon, and another Php70 for the distance the vehicle must travel to return to Park N’ Shop/ Golden Dragon (Royal Duty Free Charge fee). But if it's flagged from the roadside, the rate should only be Php120: Php50 for the Central Business District Charge Fee and Php 70 for the Royal Duty Free Charge Fee.

Make sure to take note also that when picked up from the roadside, you'll be charged for the distance the driver has traveled from the terminal and when dropped off the roadside, you'll be charged for the distance the driver must return to the terminal.

You may ask for routes and rates by calling the taxi booking service or you may find below rate sheet inside the vehicle:

Taxi Fare Rates


FROM / TO
PARK N’ SHOP / GOLDEN DRAGON
PICK-UP CHARGE
(Phone Booking Fee)
KALAKLAN GATE
CHARGE FEE
(Ride Fee)
CHARGE FEE
(Ride Fee)
Central Business District
PhP50.00
PhP30.00
PhP50.00
SBYC
PhP50.00
PhP30.00
PhP70.00
Royal Duty Free
PhP70.00
PhP30.00
PhP100.00
Hitachi
PhP70.00
PhP30.00
PhP120.00
Golf Course
PhP100.00
PhP50.00
PhP120.00
Asia Int’l Auctioneer
PhP100.00
PhP50.00
PhP140.00
Boton
PhP100.00
PhP50.00
PhP140.00
Binictican
PhP120.00
PhP80.00
PhP150.00
Kalayaan
PhP120.00
PhP80.00
PhP150.00
Jest Camp
PhP120.00
PhP80.00
PhP150.00
Crown Peak
PhP120.00
PhP80.00
PhP150.00
George Dewey Medical & Wellness Center
PhP200.00
PhP100.00
PhP200.00
Airport
PhP120.00
PhP80.00
PhP150.00
Beaches
PhP200.00
PhP100.00
PhP200.00
Fisherman’s Wharf
PhP250.00
PhP100.00
PhP250.00
Zoobic Safari
PhP400.00
PhP100.00
PhP450.00
Ocean Adventure
PhP400.00
PhP100.00
PhP450.00
  

For complaints please call 0917-552-0071 or 252-4249/4663/4315/4036
NO. OF PASSENGERS: 5 (FIVE) INCLUDING DRIVER

This Fare Matrix should be posted in a NOTICEABLE place inside the TAXI for the information of the riding public.
NON DISPLAY of the TAXI FARE RATES has a corresponding PENALTY.
This tariff rates are non-transferable, and must be used ONLY by the authorized registered driver whose pictures appear above, bearing their names, plate number and decal number.    


So if you’re a first time visitor or commuter in Subic Bay, make sure to take note the above mentioned to avoid being overcharged by cab drivers, maximize your stay, and never miss out anything in Subic Bay!

Doesn’t have any idea what’s your itinerary should be? Fret no more we got you cover, check our blog:  SUBIC-TACULAR GUIDE FOR YOUR FAMILY GETAWAY
If you're on hunt for adventure and Instagram worthy spots, then click right away on these links: 4 MUST-DO WATER ACTIVITIES IN SUBIC BAY and COLOR-FUN SUMMMER AT INFLATABLE ISLAND
Looking for a good dining place, check out this link for our recommended restaurants: SUBIC MUST TRY FOODS


Blog reference: SBMA Motor Vehicle Registration Office

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Did we miss something? Let us know by commenting below or send us an email at tours.ph@raksotravel.comIf you'd rather talk to one of our travel representatives call us at +63 (2) 651-9003.

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Tuesday, February 26, 2019


As you enter the famous Walled City of Intramuros, feel like you’ve traveled back to the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines. From its cobbled streets to the giant stone fortress, it was the center of government, education, commerce, and religion back then!

Intramuros was built 300 years ago by the Spaniards making it the oldest district of Manila. Just one visit in this historical site will surely make you learn more about the Philippines. Take it from us, wherever you lay your eyes on this place, you’ll never run out of sights to appreciate and take snaps too.

While some of its landscape has evolved through the years, still, its charm hasn’t changed and its undying history continues to live on. Planning to spend a day exploring Intramuros? Here are the places worth checking out and activities to try to get a taste of history inside The Walled City:

The Walls

Known to be “The Walled City”, Intramuros is surrounded by thick stone walls where you can stroll around all day. Standing at about 22 feet tall and 8 feet wide, it truly is amazing to think that these fortifications are so sturdy that it resisted the past wars. You can also actually climb these walls giving you a different perspective of the streets within Intramuros and the golf course beyond it.

Fort Santiago

Take a walk down in memory lane in the oldest Hispanic stone fortress in the Philippines! Fort Santiago was used to be a military headquarters of the Spaniards. It was also used as storage for gun powders and jail for prisoners. Though heavily damaged during the Battle of Manila last 1945, most parts of the fortress were restored and so its iconic gate. This is also where Jose Rizal (Philippine's National Hero) was imprisoned before he was executed on December 30, 1896.

Manila Cathedral

The Manila Cathedral, also known as Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is a premier church, the first cathedral, and one of the most important churches in the Philippines. Though it has gone through several major reconstructions after suffering from different natural disasters and being a victim of war, this church still stands remarkably inside The Walled City. But aside from its religious value, marvel at its architectural features, marble floors, tall columns, and intricate high ceilings showcasing art and sanctity of Catholicism all at once!

Kalesa

There are two ways for you to enjoy Intramuros, a walking tour or a sweet Kalesa ride! It is a horse-driven carriage used during the time of the Spanish occupation but were mostly reserved for high officials during that era. Today, these kalesas now serves as a leisure ride for both locals and tourist. So, sit back and admire the walled city the same way the Spaniards did centuries ago!

San Agustin Church

Who would have thought that inside the walls of Intramuros lies a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Take a glimpse inside San Agustin, the oldest stone church in the Philippines and the only church in Intramuros that withstood World War II and natural disasters. Get stunned with its facade with a unique Spanish Baroque architecture, high altar, and splendid ceilings. For the past years, its walls have stood as a mute witness to Philippine history.

Falsabraga de Media Naranja

When you’re already inside the Fort Santiago, don’t miss the chance to go to Falsabraga de Media Naranja. Formerly a dungeon, it was used as storage vaults and powder magazines. Its location was also a prime reason why the Spaniards built it on top of the Baluarte in 1718. This part of Intramuros offers a great view of the Pasig River and some of Manila’s skyline.

Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant

To complete your historical day trip, eat your heart out at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant! Not only that they serve authentic Filipino foods, but you'll also get entertained by various cultural dance performances from all around the country. Make sure to come hungry so you can try all of the dishes from their grand buffet!

For hundreds of years, Intramuros was Manila itself. Its walls did not only serve as a defense, but also as witness to the city’s stormy years. With all those memories that lie within its walls, there’s no doubt that the beauty and history of the Walled City of Intramuros is a timeless one.

Plus, other historical sites such as the Luneta Park and National Museum are just around the corner so if you’re looking for a place that’ll treat you with a grand history lesson, then better put Intramuros on top of your “Must-visit places in Manila”!

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Did we miss something? Let us know by commenting below or send us an email at tours.ph@raksotravel.comIf you'd rather talk to one of our travel representatives call us at +63 (2) 651-9003.

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