Mergrande Ocean Resort


I usually don't like going back into places I've been to especially if there are new places around worthy to explore. But when our team decided to spend the weekend at Mergrande Ocean Resort, I instantly gave a nod. It's been a decade anyway since my last visit with my family. Its name then was Villa Victoria. Now I'm excited to see it again and bring back the fun I had when I was still a child.


I'm quite not sure but upon seeing it, I guess the place hasn't undergone a lot of changes. The pond, the swings at the park, the castles, the dwarfs and the giant shoe house---they're all fresh in my memory except maybe for the giant pool which I think is the new addition.

As expected, Vem and I didn't miss the chance of taking a lot of pictures at the playground, at the fishing village, and at the mini golf course.


Not too many people were there. Most of them were at the pool or at the beachside. Well, shortly after we ate our lunch, we joined the group of people and plunged into the pool.


A little later, we're off to face the waves of Davao Gulf!


What I liked most that day was the kayaking. Truly a great first time experience! Although I don't know how to swim but it's safe since there were coast guards on duty. We didn't go too far anyway.




When the sun was about to face the other side of the world, we also got ready and headed home.



Photo credits: Karen

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Kopiat Island

Image
I only know 2 islands in Compostela Valley province---one is Pindasan and the other is Kopiat . Although both are highly treasured and protected by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources , the former is less famous because it is a mangrove wilderness while the latter brags its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear water, thus making it more recognized by many. Kopiat is an inhabited island, as far as I know. That means no electricity, no daytime vendors. Considerably unspoiled, the island has been a favorite site for diving, picnic and relaxation. I had a chance to visit the island with my college friends two years after our graduation. Since there's no accommodation in the island, we stayed at the nearby resort,  Bern Berioso II . We reserved the island tour for the next day. That night, we spent our time catching up with each other. Early morning, we hired a boatman to ferry us around the island. While waiting for the boa
Continue reading »

Tagum City

Image
Not far from where I live is Tagum City , the capital of Davao del Norte . Aside from my hometown, this was the only place I'm familiar with during my school days. I studied here and took my IT diploma. As the commercial and cultural center, Tagum is one of the fastest growing cities in the region. The new City Hall is in its final phase of construction and when done, it'll be one of its kind in the country if we talk about architecture and design. As far as tourism, the city has a lot to offer. A number of shopping centers are sprouting and commerce has improved a lot. The city also observes several festivities. Among them, the Musikahan Festival is most celebrated making Tagum City the Music Capital of Mindanao . Happens every February, Musikahan showcases their excellence in arts and musical composition. Every night, several streets around the Trade Center are closed to public vehicles for it'll be filled with many chairs and tables,
Continue reading »

Bamboo

Image
Compostella is not only famous for its hot springs. Far from the volcanic vents of the province flows a freezing river of New Bataan . Several resorts were developed in the area offering great amenities for your delight. One of the top destinations is Bamboo Garden Resort . It has a large pool, activity area and an access to the nearby mountain stream. New Bataan can be traveled via bus from Davao City. There is a direct route coming from Ecoland Terminal . Travel time is about 4 hours or more. Upon arriving, you just need to have a short motorcycle ride to the resort. It's uphill but the road is cemented, so there's nothing to worry. I don't know how much the entrance fee was because my trip was sponsored by a good friend whose boyfriend is a local resident. I haven't stayed there for so long. It was just a short visit. Still, the trip was worth remembering. I can't forget how I shivered when I dip into the pool and dive into the river. It was ex
Continue reading »