That question was what I’ve been debating with myself after googling so many reviews. There is so much high praise for this lens and that made me wonder if it’s still accurate considering there are plenty of IS L lenses now.
Canon 70-200mm f4L usm, beside two lens mugs
This is my upgrade from a Canon 50mm 1.8 and I am extremely pleased with the results so I’m going to write a short review of it here with lots of test shots. Here is yet another non-pro observations:
During the unboxing I couldn’t help but notice they included the elegant black casing with tough paddings inside. It really makes you feel special unlike all the other lens purchases where all I get is some styrofoam padding… my 70-200mm f4L however has it’s own pouch but the box of sigma is a lot cooler.
Two thumbs up for Mr. Sun
This was my first hike and first climb up a mountain, the 2nd highest mountain in the Philippines (2922 meters above sea level) and was so excited, maybe too excited. I brought all the necessary (and unnecessary) gears for the trip. A set of thermals (2x), two sets of gloves, 3 socks, portable towels, medicines, raingear, tent, earth pads, balaclava mask, sleeping bag, etc. Maybe too many, I feel that I could’ve been able to crunch up that size to something smaller … my bag was nearly popping out. I’d love to travel light next time. Continue reading
I really enjoyed my stay here in Coron, the added days due to a full plane was a blessing in disguise. I was able to work a bit in my lodge. For the last two days I found myself just relaxing and taking photos of whatever I could find. Continue reading
Typical Coron town street
Today I had some nice tapsilog meal care of L&MP (I forgot to mention the free breakfast they serve). I had no plans to do anymore tours so I thought of climbing Tapyas again the 2nd time.
Off we go so early in the morning
Up next was the 2nd best place for me to visit in Coron. The white sands of Banana island and Malcapuya plus a short round near Malaroyroy island.
The trip is worth 1100php at Malou’s, not a bad rate considering I’m joining another group. I got into some local group who are from Taguig, a group of teachers … who seems to be shy of their work =/ , and 3 fun, giggly bikini girls. Continue reading
Explored town to find new lodging
I extended my stay due to Cebu Pacific not having further flights so I get to stick around an additional 5 days. So today I ended my lodging in Rudy’s place, bid farewell to my group and opted to find a new place to stay. Malou (our agent) helped me find a few places for one, there are a few bad ones that smells like cockroach – although cheap at 200php only. A few more expensive in a residential part of town (1500php) but seaside. I decided to turn down the offers and found several better ones. Continue reading
This last tour is mostly about snorkeling, which I didn’t get to enjoy much due to my nearsightedness.
Calubuyan beach isn’t much to look at, there are some fine sand in some areas and clear waters. We waited here most of the time for our lunch to be cooked. There are begging dogs and some jellyfish. Continue reading
Nice clear waters
Our lagoon trips are lined up for this day so I prepared my cameras and added in some protection from the salt waters. The first stop is Siete Pecados, otherwise known as the Seven deadly sins … an odd name for the seven small limestone rocks that surrounds the snorkeling areas. We took a dip and found several sea urchins, it’s best to watch out as some urchins are not that deep and can poke your feet. I took a dip and swam to one of the sins, well it has flags and everything but I don’t see much sea creatures or points of interest. Some parts are darker in the waters so I didn’t bother going in there, not only is it creepy but I’m near sighted so snorkeling really isn’t ideal for me. Continue reading
This is what’s included in the town tour. The mini mountain Mt. Tapyas and the hot springs as the highlight.
The sidetrips are the cashew place, Lualhati park, nearby Church and the municipal office. Continue reading
