The famous Hundred Islands in the town of Alaminos, Pangasinan is one of the places I have long wanted to visit but couldn’t, primarily because of the boat rides. I don’t know how to swim and the thought of capsizing boats scare me to death, but I know this is one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines. So I bravely faced my fears when I started planning for this trip. This was also my gift for myself since I recently celebrated my 27th birthday. 
Easy Transpo:
We boarded Victory Liner Bus going to Alaminos at 5am on Saturday. Six hours, a bumpy ride, and occasional heavy traffic later, we reached Villa Antolin Hotel. Our plan is to relax the whole day and explore Hundred Islands the following day (if the weather permits).
Sulit Stay:
After doing exhaustive research of the hotels in the area, we decided to book a room in Villa Antolin. We don’t have photos of our room nor the hotel but I highly recommend the place if you opt to stay in Lucap. (Lucap is the jump off point of boats going to the islands. Since the weather was very unpredictable the past few weeks prior to the trip, we decided to just book a hotel room here so that we won’t encounter difficulties in case it rains). The rooms are small and basic, but it has its own TV, aircon, and CR. When we arrived, the place is packed of students from UP Baguio (field trip).
I suggest, though, that you call Philip beforehand to get a reservation (075 551 3604), as the place runs out of space especially during peak season, including long weekends and holidays.
Fun Food Tripping:
Maxine at night
There are very few restaurants in Lucap. Good thing, there’s Maxine by the Sea, and it’s so good we had our three meals here! Because I love Maxine’s so much, I wrote a special blog entry.
You may read it here.
Tours and Treats:
This is a no-brainer. You came to Alaminos to see the world famous Hundred Islands. Rent a boat and explore the islands. Start the tour preferably in the morning for a more forgiving weather. If you won’t linger much in the islands, it should last for about five hours tops.
Note: We were lucky because the following weekend, Ondoy hit the Metro and then Pepeng followed suit.
Follow our trail in the islands here.
Inclusive of transportation, accommdation and tours, we spent more or less Php 3,500 per pax.
Note: I guess we were lucky because the following weekend, the super typhoon Ondoy hit the Metro. The following week, Pepeng followed suit. These two typhoons caused great damages in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
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