Our first day in Banaue Rice Terraces took us to Travellers Inn in the remote, under construction dangerous roads by the cliff. Breath taking place, but there is the very real risk of being stranded in case of landslides. We conversed with a jeep driver who turned out to be a top notch tourist guide by himself, the name is Lambert, call 0935-2185607.
The following day we called up Lambert to fetch us and guide us through the very dangerous 1 lane cliff hanging muddy road as it was raining. We succeeded in coming back to Banaue town proper and we then proceeded to tour Banaue through the different terraces view points. We also got to the museum. We then checked in at Banaue Hotel. The only “real” hotel in Banaue.
Lambert took us to his favorite restaurant, Las Vegas, we had dinner there. Lunch we wanted chicken pinikpikan, but it was unavailable so we went to a turo-turo which had it.
Banaue is such a small town of few people, everyone knew everyone. Lambert even helped us ship stuff we bought via Bus. Lambert is also an expert packer. We packed in a big box one sack of their sacred mountain red rice and some
furniture souvenirs. He knew the bus conductor and my driver in Manila successfully picked up our package.
Having Lambert along was such a joy, he also chews and spits Nga nga, Moma. He is an authentic Ifugao, Born from a father that was an expert wood carver. Their yellow family residence is on a cliff just like everyone else. His wife is Ifugao and his children are Ifugao.
Lambert used to study as a mechanic in Manila so he knows the difference between Manila life and Banaue life. Hey, you have to pay for chlorinated water in Manila! But water in Banaue rice terraces is totally free! All you can drink and bathe in.
Lambert is a professional tour driver and has toured the mountains in kalinga, baguio, sagada and has gone around central and northern luzon.
What I like about Lambert is he is a genuine person all his own. Not some factory trained tour guide.
So if you are thinking about going to Banaue Rice Terraces soon, call up Lambert at 0935-2185607.