Discovering Matera: A Journey Through Time

A Brief History of Matera

Matera is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with settlements dating back to the Paleolithic era. The city’s most famous feature is the Sassi, a complex of cave dwellings carved into the limestone rock, which have been inhabited for thousands of years. Matera’s unique history has earned it a spot as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the title of European Capital of Culture in 2019.

Matera Travel Guide: Top Attractions

The Sassi di Matera

The Sassi di Matera is the heart and soul of the city. This ancient district is divided into two main areas: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. Wandering through the labyrinth of narrow alleys, steep staircases, and stone houses offers a glimpse into Matera’s past. The Sassi is home to numerous rock-cut churches, ancient cisterns, and traditional dwellings that have been transformed into museums, hotels, and restaurants.

Must-Visit Sites in the Sassi

Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: A reconstructed cave dwelling that offers insight into the daily life of Matera’s inhabitants.

Chiesa di Santa Maria di Idris: A stunning rock-hewn church with frescoes dating back to the 12th century.

Palombaro Lungo: An impressive underground cistern that once supplied the city with water.

Matera Travel Guide: Exploring the Rupestrian Churches

Matera is home to an extraordinary collection of rupestrian (rock-cut) churches, many of which are adorned with beautiful frescoes. These churches were carved into the soft limestone by monks and hermits during the Middle Ages.

Key Churches to Visit:

San Pietro Barisano: The largest rupestrian church in Matera, featuring a mix of Byzantine and Romanesque elements.

Santa Lucia alle Malve: A church known for its vibrant frescoes depicting scenes from the New Testament.

Madonna delle Virtù and San Nicola dei Greci: A complex of two interconnected churches with remarkable frescoes and panoramic views.

The Cathedral of Matera

Perched atop Civita Hill, the Cathedral of Matera (Duomo di Matera) is a magnificent example of Apulian Romanesque architecture. Built in the 13th century, the cathedral features a stunning rose window, an intricately decorated interior, and breathtaking views of the Sassi and surrounding countryside.

Matera Travel Guide: Museums and Cultural Experiences

Matera’s rich history and culture are preserved in its museums and cultural institutions. These museums provide a deeper understanding of the city’s past and present.

Museo Nazionale d’Arte Medievale e Moderna della Basilicata: Located in Palazzo Lanfranchi, this museum houses an impressive collection of medieval and modern art, including works by Carlo Levi, who famously wrote about Matera in his book “Christ Stopped at Eboli.”

Museo della Scultura Contemporanea Matera (MUSMA): This contemporary art museum is housed in a series of cave dwellings, creating a unique contrast between ancient and modern art.

Casa Noha: A multimedia museum that offers an immersive experience of Matera’s history, from the Neolithic period to the present day.

Matera Travel Guide: Walking Tours and Day Trips

Walking through Matera is the best way to explore its ancient streets and hidden corners. Several guided tours are available, offering insights into the city’s history, architecture, and culture.

Guided Walking Tours: Local guides offer a wealth of knowledge about Matera’s history and culture, leading you through the Sassi, rupestrian churches, and other notable sites.

Day Trips from Matera: Matera’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region of Basilicata and nearby Puglia. Consider a day trip to the nearby towns of Alberobello, known for its trulli houses, or Craco, an eerie ghost town perched on a hilltop.

Matera Travel Guide: Where to Eat and Stay

Matera’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional and modern flavors, with many restaurants offering dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Staying in Matera offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to charming bed and breakfasts.

Top Restaurants in Matera:

Trattoria del Caveoso: A popular restaurant located in the Sasso Caveoso, known for its traditional Lucanian dishes.

Ristorante Francesca: A fine dining experience in the heart of the Sassi, offering a creative take on local cuisine.

Osteria Al Casale: Located in a former farmhouse, this restaurant offers a rustic ambiance and delicious regional dishes.

Accommodation Options:

Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort: A luxurious hotel located in a historic cave dwelling, offering stunning views of the Sassi.

Le Grotte della Civita: An upscale hotel featuring beautifully restored cave rooms, blending modern comfort with ancient charm.

Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita: A unique hotel that offers an authentic experience of living in a cave dwelling, complete with modern amenities.

Practical Tips for Visiting Matera

Best Time to Visit Matera

Matera is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. Summer can be hot, and winter, though quieter, can be chilly.

Getting to Matera

Matera is accessible by train, bus, or car. The nearest airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, about an hour’s drive from Matera. From Bari, you can take a train or bus directly to Matera.

Packing Essentials

When visiting Matera, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the city’s steep and uneven streets can be challenging to navigate. Pack lightweight clothing for the summer, and bring layers for cooler months. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle for those hot days exploring the Sassi.

Safety and Etiquette

Matera is a safe city, but it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas. Respect the local culture by dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and interacting with locals in a polite and friendly manner.

Matera Travel Guide: Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

While the Sassi and other main attractions are must-sees, Matera also has several hidden gems that offer a more intimate experience of the city.

Murgia Timone: A plateau just outside Matera that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. It’s a great spot for hiking and photography.

Crypt of the Original Sin: A rock-cut church located outside of Matera, known for its well-preserved frescoes that date back to the 9th century. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into the early Christian history of the region.

For those interested in exploring other unique natural wonders, you might find inspiration in the Anislag Spring article, which highlights a serene and lesser-known destination in the Philippines.

Conclusion

Matera is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. This Matera Travel Guide has provided you with the essential information needed to plan your visit to this extraordinary destination. Whether you’re exploring the ancient Sassi, marveling at the rupestrian churches, or enjoying the local cuisine, Matera offers an unforgettable travel experience. As you plan your trip, consider diving deeper into Matera’s fascinating history by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for more detailed information on its significance.

Matera is not just a place to visit; it’s a journey through time, offering a rare opportunity to step back into history while enjoying the comforts of the present. This hidden gem in southern Italy is a must-visit for any traveler seeking to explore one of the most unique and awe-inspiring destinations in the world.

Singapore Travel Guide & Cost

So, let me start. We are 6 adults & a 7yo kid. We rode the 9:20 Oceanjet trip to Cebu. Adult fare is P500 while the kid is P400. Pay the terminal fee that costs P20 per ticket. Terminal fee for kids is free when there is a school ID presented.

When we arrived at Terminal 1 Cebu Port, we rented a van for P600. It was divided by 6 since we are 6 in a group. Each of us paid P100.

It was 12 noon when we arrived at Mactan Cebu International Airport at International Departure. We found out that there were no fast food chains there so we decided to go to Terminal 1 domestic to have our lunch. Jollibee & Shakeys can be found inside Terminal 1. Just look for the black bus or the airport bus for you to be able to transfer to Terminal 1 for free. After eating our lunch at Shakeys (more or less their meal cost P230), we went to Jollibee to take orders for our dinner since our flight is 7:45 in the evening. Better to bring food to save inside the International departure because available foods inside are very expensive.

Present your ticket & passport when entering the International Departure building. Check in at the airline counter. Pay the travel tax if you haven’t paid yet, it is worth P2600. Go back to the airline counter for your boarding pass.

By the way, you are only allowed for a 7kgs hand carry luggage but it depends on the airline. Some allow 9kgs. Just please take note that flammable belongings are not allowed like lighter, water and other liquid substances that exceed 100ml, and also umbrellas are not allowed.

After receiving the boarding pass, pay the terminal fee P850 for adult & kid (no exemption). Then proceed to the table in front of the Terminal fee counter to fill out the departure card.

Departure Card needs the following data:

• Complete Name
• Passport Number ( can be used also as ID No.)
• Flight Number
• Address of the county of destination
• Occupation
• Signature
• Date of Departure

After filling out everything, proceed to the immigration counter. There is a counter for all passports & a counter for OFW/Crew. Just fall in line at the All Passport Counter.

The immigration officer will ask for your passport, boarding pass & departure card. In case you are a government employee you are required to present Approved Leave & Authority to Travel Abroad. If you are self employed they will ask for a business permit or anything proof that you have income and you can finance your travel.

In the case of my husband we went to separate counters. He was with my daughter. But the immigration officer I was assigned to told me that when you travel as a family you can go together in one counter. Then if you are bringing your niece/nephew without her/his parents, you are required to present a DSWD Clearance approved by the DWSD Regional Office.

If everything is okay, proceed to the boarding gate. Boarding gate number can be seen on your boarding pass. Then wait for an announcement of boarding. You can also check the status of your flight on the TV screens.

Since you cannot bring water inside you will be forced to buy bottled water costing P125 for 1 liter if ever you are very thirsty. However, you can refill it for free, just look for a fountain. Refill it with cold water.

Also, their comfort room is very clean & automatic.

Arriving at Changi Airport you will be amazed at how their airport looks. Very clean, spacious, high-tech and their floor is carpeted.

Before proceeding to the immigration counter, fill out first the embarkation/disembarkation form.

Embarkation/ Disembarkation needs the following data:

• Full Name
• Passport Number
• Place of Residence (City, State, Country)
• Flight Number
• Address in Singapore
• Postal Code
• Contact Number
• Country of Birth
• Date of Birth
• Length of Stay
• Nationality
• Last City/Port of Embarkation Before Singapore
• Next City/Port of Disembarkation After Singapore
• Signature

This will be given inside the plane or if ever you didn’t receive one you can get at the tables before the immigration counters.

Changi Airport has a 24-hour money changer. You can change your Peso to SG $. More or less 1 SG $= P40.

Since we will be staying at Pasir Ris, we will ride a Taxi going there that costs $16.

Summary of Cost Per Person:

Oceanjet (Bohol-Cebu) -P500

Taxi (Pier to Airport)- P100

Travel Tax- P2600

Terminal Fee – P850

Taxi (Singapore) – it depends on where you will be staying.

Note: This Singapore Travel Guide and Cost are just based on our experience.

“It is always nice to be with nature.”

Anislag Sod or Sudlon is one of the sitios in the barangay, derived from the spring where Anislag trees are abundant; Sod was derived from the word “sodlon” to the forest.

How do you get to Anislag Spring?

If you want to go there, the distance from the Town Proper to Anislag Spring is 22 km. So if you are from Tagbilaran City, you must travel 40km (Tagbilaran to Valencia) plus 22km (Valencia Proper to Omjon). Don’t worry because the journey to get there is exciting, as you are on your way to the spring, and you can witness sceneries that will catch your attention. Though it has a short road that still needs to pave, it won’t hassle your travel and is part of the adventure. 

The place is perfect for outing. It is ideal for people who want to recharge from a busy life in the city. 

Eating after soaking yourself in the freezing water won’t be a problem because there is a cottage where you can indulge in your favorite foods. It also has two dressing rooms where you can change your wet clothes.

Cleaning your dishes is not a problem because there is an intended faucet. 

This place is an excellent place to relax to the nth level from the overloaded work.

Question: Is there a cottage fee?

Answer: Yes, the cottage fee is P150.00

Just be sure you would bring enough food because the hunger level rises when you swim in that freezing spring. Don’t worry because the level of coldness is just enough that it can even encourage you to swim over and over again.

The water from the cave is also clean and ready for drinking; it has many minerals—pure mineral water.

Question: Is there an entrance fee?

Answer: It has an entrance fee of five (5) pesos for each person.

So, what are you waiting for? Go there and experience the beauty of nature GOD has given to us.

READ: Singapore Itinerary In A Low Budget

Ilocos Norte is a beautiful province in the Northern Philippines particularly in Ilocos Region. This place offers tourist destinations highlighting nature & historical sites.

10 Interesting Places In Ilocos Norte:

1.The Burgos Lighthouse.

Popularly known as Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. This is a cultural heritage structure in Burgos,Ilocos Norte. After more than 100 years since it was constructed, it became a famous tourist destination, yet, it still functions as a welcoming beacon to the International ships that enter Philippine Archipelago.

2.Pasuquin Salt Making.

A few kilometers north of Pasuquin, there are roadside stalls selling bags of salt that is claimed to be one of the finest salt in the Philippines. Pasuquin is a farming and fishing area and during the off season, people resort to salt making to alleviate their income.

3.Bangue Wind Mills.

It is truly a unique must-see in the region. There are 20 turbines set up along the coast, stretch to a nine-kilometer shoreline of Bangui Bay facing the West Philippine Sea.

4.Malacañang of the North.

The former residence of the Marcos family during his presidency, their old home has been transformed into a museum. It is built on a high point of land projecting int the sea right above the coastline of the legendary Paoay Lake. Paoay Lake is commonly referred in Ilocano as “ big water”. It is the largest lake in the province of Ilocos Norte and one of the largest natural lakes in the Northen Luzon Region. It was declared as national park in 1969.

5.Paoay Church.

It is one of the oldest and beautiful churches in the country. It is also known as San Agustin Church.

6.Paraiso Ni Anton.

This is one of the few stops of the Pagudpud Tour. They say that the water from the falls can heal.

7.Patapat Viaduct.

One of the most beautiful spots in Ilocos Noorte and the 4th longest bridge in the Philippines. The 1.3 km concrete coastal bridge highway going from Pagudpud to Cagayan Valley is elevated 31 meters above sea level.

8.Bantay Abot Cave.

The interesting geological information is not really a cave but a rocky hill resulted from an earthquake that happened so many years ago. Bantay Abot means “a mountain with a hole.”It is an exceptional formation embracing the clear blue sea.

9.Blue Lagoon.

If you want a beach spot that is not flocked by many people like that of Boracay, the Blue Lagoon also known as Maira-Ira Point of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte is the perfect spot for you.

10.Paoay San Dunes.

Paoay in Ilocos Norte has a place where sands are visible throughout the hills. Amazing place because it is not near the sea or beach to have a deposit of sands. Here, you can try riding a 4×4 vehicle in a roller coaster ride down the bumpy trails.

A very nice experience so far in my entire life.

READ: Hidden Anislag Spring in Omjon

Everybody knows that Singapore has been declared as one of the World’s most expensive city that is why some people are scared to travel in this world known city. Well, it depends on the person who travels, if you want a luxurious tour then it would be very expensive. But if you are a budgetarian, you can explore the top tourist attractions for as low as SG $ 175 or 7000 pesos (exclusive of pasalubong) only.

Singapore has many attractions that are for free especially the main attraction in which the Singapore is known for. That is why a SG $ 175 budget for a 6-day tour is possible.

In this blog, I’m gonna share the how the SG $175 spent.

Here are the attractions and the corresponding entrance fee:

MERLION PARK

Entrance Fee: FREE

Merlion Park is the most popular attraction in Singapore. This is the structure that made the Singapore known to the world.

Merlion is the official mascot of Singapore, depicted as a mythical creature with a lion’s head and the body of a fish.

MARINA BAY SANDS

Entrance Fee: FREE

Marina Bay Sands is an integrated resort fronting the Marina Bay. The complex is topped by a 340-metre-long (1,120 ft) Sypark with a capacity of 3,900 people and a 150 m (490 ft) infinity swimming pool, set on top of the world’s largest public cantilevered platform, which overhangs the north tower by 67 m (220 ft).

Marina Bay Sands has 3 towers as you can see in the picture. You can go inside the resort for free. It is in front of Merlion Park also and you can go there by just walking.

GARDENS BY THE BAY

Entrance Fee: FREE

Gardens By The Bay. This is just behind the Marina Bay Sands.

It is a nature park spanning 101 hectares (250 acres) of reclaimed land in the Central Region of Singapore, adjacent to the Marina Reservior.

Gardens by the Bay is part of the nation’s plans to transform its “Garden City” to a “City in a Garden”, with the aim of raising the quality of life by enhancing greenery and flora in the city.

SENTOSA BOARDWALK

Entrance Fee: FREE

Sentosa Boardwalk is 670 meters. It links Vivo City to Resorts World Singapore where you can find the Universal Studio. Don’t worry its sheltered, no fear of rain. It is also wheel-chair accessible so anyone can get to experience crossing the boardwalk.

SILOSO BEACH

Entrance Fee: FREE

Siloso Beach is a clean, sandy cove on Sentosa Island.

The beach is popular with families throughout the day and takes on a partying vibe at night. It is one of the best places in Singapore to relax and take in the scenic coastline.

Much like other elements of Singapore, Siloso Beach is not a natural landmark. The sand on the beach was imported from Australia and is kept exceedingly clean. It was man-made to give locals and visitors a nice coastal stretch to relax on. Siloso has more amenities than nearby Palawan Beach.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE

Entrance: SG $79 or P3160 more or less

Universal Studios Singapore. This is located in Sentosa Island. Its entrance is in front of Universal Studio Globe..

Singapore’s only movie-theme park features 24 rides and attractions, including a pair of dueling coasters that brush past one another in several near misses in their aerial combat.  Dinosaurs, lemurs, ogres and Egyptian mummies add to the thrills and adventures. Laughter and screams are heard around every corner, and lasting memories are made every day. Themed dining and shops are also available. Different shows like Sesame Street, Minions, and others are worth it to wait and watch.

OTHER EXPENSES:

SMRT Card Load- SG $20 or P800.00 for the whole 6 days already and for the whole tour.

Food Budget-SG $63 or P2,500.00 for 6 days already. Read this blog Practical Tips To Do When Travelling To An Expensive Country to know why. Tip: We bring packed meal when we go out.

House Budget- SG $10 or P400.00 for 6 days already. We stayed at my sister’s house. We give a share for electricity, water & gas.

TIPS for PASALUBONG.

Shop at Value$/ABC Cheapest Store. You can find it mostly in every mall where MRT station is located. Bugis also is a good choice.

Major Tips:

• Always wear comfortable shoes and clothes
• Bring extra shirt
• Choose an accommodation that is near MRT.

READ: 10 Interesting Places In Ilocos Norte