Have been a number of times to Chosen Cafe. It's a nice bike ride, view and I guess a passable cup of coffee. Are you saying that is not recommended for foreigners?
Been up there often as well, and went further through the mountains until I reach Pamplona occasionally. Never had any issues. I also don't think that's actually a police checkpoint but private security related to the power plant? Got stopped there exactly once asking where I'm going, but let through to Chosen's cafe without further discussion. Generally I believe NPA is not out to catch foreigners for ransom and/or religious reasons (correct me if I'm wrong but I never heard of any case where that happens). Their beef is with the government, the one risk I see is to get caught in the crossfire when they have an encounter with police or army.
That is what I read - unlike the Islamists who want a foreign head (literally). But, as you point out, best to stay clear of where they operate.
Hmmmm. I am an ape and a GREAT ape at that! Monkey indeed! It is about time I posted a real pic here so you guys stop thinking I am part of that very successful 1960s pop group starring Circus Boy (that'll show your age!).
But all your avatar shows is your face. How do I know you don't have a tail? Scratch that, forget I asked