Mag-Aso Falls: When in Negros Occidental

Written By
Yvette Sol Pineda

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When in Manila, and in the province of Negros Occidental in particular, the summer  is like no other! Mine started with a surprise invitation from my elder sister and her family last March 31, 2012.  There is always a first time for all of us, as the saying goes. That is why, I am so grateful I had the chance to visit Mag-Aso Falls for the first time.

 Mag-Aso Falls is one of the tourist interests of the City of Kabankalan.  It is located at the southern part of Negros Occidental.  From the capital city , the City of Smiles (Bacolod City), you will spend a travel time of more than two hours on the road.  However, it is worth the while when you reached the resort because of  the unique ambiance it presented as soon as you arrive.   

The following are the features of how the resort look like, to wit:

The entrance

The guests’ area

The cottages

  

The swimming pool with its flowing water from the spring.

A hundred and more steps down to reach the water falls.

 

The refreshing turquoise water of Mag-Aso falls! 

The entire cool view of the area.

Up close with the local divers.

          

When in Manila, there are famous resorts that are world-reknown but this  Mag-Aso Falls on this side of our province is worth a visit, too, when you are looking for a place away from the noise and traffic of the city not to mention a not-so-congested resort to relax with.  You may contact the City Government of Kabankalan under its City Economic Enterprises Development & Management Office at telephone no. (034) 471-2441.

Wildlife tour India – an exciting journey through wildlife sanctuaries When In India

When In India, taking the glorious glimpses of the royal beasts in the jungle very closely and experiencing the pleasure of living those creatures in a natural habitat is such a rewarding moment. As an animal lover you must be enthusiastically thinking of some adventurous activities that may allow you such exciting experiences. India is the only land in the world that encompasses this wholesome experience of encountering the deadly variant creatures very closely. The India wildlife tour offers different safari experiences to the tourists to watch the deadly creatures at its amazing jungles and wild reserves.

These wild reserves have been particularly established for the welfare and preservation of the extinguishing wild species from earth. Additionally such attractive reserves are the perfect reasons for special wildlife holidays India that attracts thousands of national and international vacationers to the various parts of this unparalleled land of wild beings.

Let us find some of the incredible wildlife reserves that embellish and promote the wildlife tour India:

Corbett National Park

Considered as the first National Park in India, the Corbett Park is one of the most popular reserves in India that invades large varieties of flora and fauna at its soothing and attractive surroundings. Earlier known as Hailey National Park, this wild reserve came forward with a new name as Jim Corbett National Park in the honor of the legendary hunter turned conservationist in 1956. The Corbett reserve is located in the Himalayan foothills in Uttaranchal state and is elevated at an altitude of 365 m – 1100 m above the sea level.

Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park is one of the largest national parks in India situated in Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan. In 1955 it was being established as Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary by the Government of India and was declared as one of the Project Tiger Reserves in 1973. Tigers can be found in abundant in this area and one can find them even in day time freely roaming at the surroundings. An elephant and jeep safari can be the perfect mediums to watch these majestic predators in the Ranthambore jungle.

Kaziranga National Park

The eastern part of India proudly holds the large variety of carnivorous animals in the Kaziranga National Park in Assam. The Kaziranga National Park is famous for one horned rhinoceros, Hoolock Gibbons and wild buffalo in Golaghat and Nagaon district of Assam covering an area of 430 sq km. The landscape of Kaziranga is simply amazing and thus one can find a wide variety of animals in its vicinity. Along with that the tourists can enjoy various interesting activities including bird watching, elephant and jeep safari.

Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park is widely spread in Vindhya hills in Madhya Pradesh by covering the core area of 105 sq km and the buffer zone of 400 sq km. The topography of this reserve varies between steep ridges, undulating, forest and open meadows. Bandhavgarh is famous for the highest density of the Royal Bengal Tigers in India. Earlier the location was the hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Rewa but nowadays it is the famous hub for attractive white tigers. The tourists can enjoy the soothing environment, vast landscapes and close encounters of a variety of wild animals including royal Bengal tigers and white tigers.

When In India, a visit to such lovely wild reserves will really be a fascinating experience. Wildlife holidays India will definitely bring remembering and outstanding experiences for animal and nature lovers.

And when in Cebu City, Philippines, please visit gregmelep.com

Why should I go to Wellington? 7 Reasons why YOU should visit New Zealand’s Capital

I moved to Wellington about four months ago. To this day, I can’t actually think what drove me to come here. I’m originally from the UK, so it’s not like New Zealand was right on my doorstep. However, one day I got on a plane and, after a few months pottering around the rest of the country, Wellington is where I eventually settled. Not a day goes by when I’m not glad to be here.

When in Manila, some of you might be thinking, ‘Why the heck should I go to Wellington?’

Well, here’s my list of reasons to spend some time in New Zealand’s coolest little capital.


1. It’s pretty. No, scratch that. It’s Beautiful. Wellington is enclosed by rolling hills, and surrounded by crystal blue water. I’m not even exaggerating: look below.

 

Try: Braving the climb up Mount Victoria on a sunny day. Trust me; the views are worth it. You can even see the South Island on a clear day. Take a picnic and make an afternoon of it. it’s where I look the above photo.

2. It’s friendly. NZedders are renowned for being a chilled out bunch of dudes and dudettes, and the ones who reside in Wellington are no different. People smile at you over shop counters, and offer help willingly if you need it. They’re interested in you and where you came from, and are happy to share stories over a cold pint of lager.

Try: Pub Quiz at the Green Man, Corner of Willesden and Victoria Streets. A great way to make friends and have a yarn on a Monday night.

3. The nightlife is awesome. It’s true. Don’t let the size of this capital deceive you; Wellingtonians know how to party. Courtenay Place on a Friday and Saturday night is nothing short of rambunctious, with music blasting out of the many clubs and bars and a festival atmosphere on the street. If a quieter night is more your thing, there are plenty of other well-stocked bars on tamer streets, so you’ll never be short of somewhere to go.

Try: Matterhorn Bar, Cuba Street. Voted best bar in the country and a great vibe. Hashigo Zake on Taranaki Street is also a personal favourite of mine, and offers a mind-boggling selection of brews and amazing Umeshu (Japanese plum wine).

4. It’s artsy. This also. In the day time, if you’re not too hungover from a night spent on Coutenay Place, there is SO much to see and do in this city, and mostly at cheap prices. There’s a whole ton of art galleries you can mosey your around in, or you can just sit and listen to the vast array of buskers and street performers on Cuba Street. Also, why not take a trip to the theatre?  I recently went to see a production at Bats Theatre, and it really was impressive.

Try: The Medicine stand up comedy, at Meow on Te Aro Street. Fine comedians, 2 hours of comedy, and a great setting. What more could you ask for at 5 bucks a pop?

5. The shopping is great. High Street chains on Manners and Willis street. Funky independent stores on Cuba street. High End boutiques on Lambton Quay. Whatever your shopping style, Wellington definitely caters for it. You can pick up some awesome bargains, too.I got some nifty little ankle boots from High Street store Cotton On the other day, and they only cost NZ$15!

Try: JayJays for cheap fashion, and Typo for luscious stationery. Both have stores on Manners Street.

Typo goodies

6. The food is even better than the shopping. New Zealand is a melting pot of so many races and cultures, and this really shows up in the food that’s on offer. Japanese, Thai, Turkish, Indian… it’s all here, and there are some great authentic little restaurants.

Try: Pan De Muerto Mexican Restaurant on Kent Terrace. Authentic Mexican cuisine, great cocktails, and $5 tequila shots on Saturday nights. Perfection.

7. It’s relatively cheap to stay here. Maybe I’m just used to London, but I find that Wellington is surprisingly gentle on the purse-strings. I stayed at a number of backpacker hostels when I first arrived, all offering rooms at around NZ$27 a night. New World and Pac n’ Save supermarkets sell your staple foods at low prices, and watch out for countless cheap drinks deals at the student bars around town.

Try: Downtown Backpackers, Bunny Street. Conveniently close to the shops and train station, and a huge list of activities on offer. Dorms start at $25 per night.

So there we have it; I hope I’ve managed to convince you that Wellington really is worth a visit.

When in Manila, if you want to go to Wellington, all you need to do is apply for a visa!

Mount Pulag Mountain Travel Guide: Walk on the Clouds

When In Manila, more and more people are heading out into the mountains and beaches of our beautiful jewel of the Pacific.

Whether you just want to reinvigorate your senses in the cool air of Tagaytay or Baguio (not so much the latter as of late, thanks to SM and rampant, unregulated development), or unwind and soak up some rays on the white sands of Palawan or Boracay, or if you’re an adrenaline junkie and want to learn to ride some waves in La Union, Baler or Siargao, or wakeboard in CamSur or dive in Anilao, or challenge yourself in the caves of Sagada…there’s something for everyone.

It truly is more fun in the Philippines!

For this post, I’ll be providing you with the first mountain travel guide here on WhenInManila.com. I joined a group of first-timers to conquer the second highest peak in the Philippines: Mount Pulag. To start off, it’s time to get prepared like a proper boy scout.


What You’ll Need:

Watherproof clothes: A jacket that will protect you from the cold, as well as a raincoat. Weather is unpredictable so you have to be prepared. Gloves, extra socks, leggings/thermal underwear, a scarf/beanie (unless you have a high tolerance for cold, you need these).

Packs: North Face’s Flight series comes with a pull out rain cover which is essential for keeping your pack dry. Columbia also has good day packs. If you’re on a budget, just borrow, or get Tribu, Sandugo or Conqueror which are cost effective and of good quality.

The Gear 

A good pair of trekking/hiking shoes. Again, North Face, Columbia, Timberland have good selections. Sandugo and Tribu are also good if you’re on a budget but still want quality and durability.

Energy bars: Something to keep you going during the hours and hours of hiking.

Water: Nothing like good old H20. Don’t need to bring more than a 1 or 2L thermos or platypus as there are fresh mountain springs to refill with along the way. Nalgene and Columbia thermoses are shatterproof.

Headlamp: For the dawn hike to the summit. You’ll need your hands, but a flashlight will also do.

Food: Bring it packed (you can buy packed lunches on the way up to the Ranger’s Station) or ready to eat/cook. Of course, to cook you’ll need to bring a portable stove, utensils, etc. Bring for dinner and breakfast.

A tent and a sleeping bag: Good tents and sleeping bags by Coleman, although I’m sure there are a lot of other good ones there, these are just the ones I used. An earthbed is also recommended (although I didn’t have one) because the cold really seeps in from the ground.

Money: About Php3000 for transport, food, porters (optional), park fees.

Where You’re Going:

To reach the summit, you have a choice of two routes: the Ambangeg or Akiki trail. For beginners, the Ambangeg trail is recommended. It’s this trail that our wussy group took.

Ambangeg/Babadac Trail

This is the well established and considered the main or “celebrity” trail going to Mt. Pulag. Vehicles can negotiate the trail all the way to the Ranger Station which is the entire Ambangeg Trail. Still others can choose to hike the entire trail.

The DENR office and the Ranger station are located along the trail, a few meters from the park entrance. From there, the Mt. Pulag base camp is a 4-km hike along the well-paved trails with a convenient rest stop waiting shed. From the base camp, the summit is just a 45-90 minute hike away. source

 Pulag Mountain Travel Guide: 5a breakfast stop at Jollibee Session Road

Akiki Trail

The Akiki trail is a more challenging route to Mt. Pulag, dubbed as the “Killer Trail” by mountaineers because of its steep slopes. It requires 10-11 hours to reach the summit from this trail, whose up-and-down paths pass by Eddet River (2 hours) where one can camp, rest, and bathe, and continuing across steep, scenic pine-covered slopes to what is dubbed as Marlboro Country (4-hours), so-called because its brown, wide landscapes evoke those seen in the cigarette commercials. Just like the other trails to Pulag, this trail would then pass by the montane forest (3 hours) until reach the grassland area. After the challenging trek, the summit views are rewarding, and the saddle campsite affords a closer access to the summit, being just 15 minutes away. source

 Pulag Mountain Travel Guide: Orientation at the Pulag National Park DENR Station

 Getting There:

2100: Meet up at Victory Liner station at EDSA Cubao

Day 1

0400: Arrive at Baguio City. Have breakfast then hire a jeepney. You can see a group of them waiting outside the Victory Liner terminal. Round trip is about P700 per head.

 Pulag Mountain Travel Guide: Other mountaineering groups commemorate their ascent of Pulag by leaving their IDs and team banners at the DENR Station on the way down.

0800: En route to Kabayan, Benguet. Stop over at Ambuklao Dam for sightseeing. There’s also a food stop where you can take an early lunch or have a pack lunch to take with you.

0900: Orientation at the Mount Pulag National Park DENR station.

1400: Arrive at the Ranger’s Station. This is the jump-off point for the hike for poser mountaineers like myself. Before there were jeepneys running these trails, people would hike from the DENR station! We had a late lunch here, and as it had started to rain, you can also buy some trash bags for less than Php20 since some in our group didn’t have raincoats.

 Pulag Mountain Travel Guide: My pack’s not heavy at all. Really.

1700: Arrive at the camp site!

1800: Dinner of cheese, bread, dried pork, and would you believe, carbonara?

2000: Lights out.

 Pulag Mountain Travel Guide: The bigger the tent, the more bodies you can pack in it to generate more body heat (at night, temperatures drop to as low as -4°C!) Spot our giant tent which can hold six.

0300: Wake up and hike for an hour and a half in pitch darkness to the summit.

The Payoff:

 Pulag Mountain Travel Guide: Summit sunrise above the clouds!

 Pulag Mountain Travel Guide: Aching body, sweating and freezing at the same time, lacking sleep, no breakfast. This is what victory tastes like! 

  Pulag Mountain Travel Guide: Jump shots are mandatory (and not lame) at this altitude!

After enduring the freezing bus ride, getting our brains rattled inside a jeepney for a few hours, the cold, the fatigue, the hunger and thirst, the seemingly endless trek up steep rocky inclines, at one point the motorcycle I hitched I ride on wiped out when it hit a patch of mud, and not to mention the swarms of flies (these are from the mounds of fermenting cabbage which the locals leave alongside the road which they’ll later use as fertilizer for their crops–yes it smells pungent), you are scramble up that final few meters with all your might and are given something new.

Sitting on the top of the mountain, higher than I’ve ever been before, with the air cleaner and fresher that I could ever imagine, with a thick blanket of clouds below me, I am greeted by a sunrise unlike any I’ve seen before. As the sky below me starts to glow and become suffused with color, and the sun peeks its golden crown and the first rays of sunlight touch my brow, all my weariness melts away.

After a few minutes, the moment passes. You snap a few more photos and then head back down. Over twenty four hours (up and down) of hardship for a spectacle that lasts just a few minutes?

It was totally worth it. 

Pulag Mountain Travel Guide: Enjoy a short video of the trip

Weekend Trip Made Perfect with Offbeat Pursuits

We all need to escape the hustle and bustle of busy metro living, and what better way than to enjoy sand, sea, and surf at one of the most accessible yet off-the-beaten path destinations in the Philippines? Offbeat Pursuits with their weekend Zambales Adventure guarantees loads of fun to have and friends to make!

 Weekend Trip Made Perfect with Offbeat Pursuits

A weekend trip with Offbeat Pursuits began with a meet-up at Katipunan; the land transfer to Zambales is part of the travel tour package. Several (laugh-filled) hours after setting off from Manila, the air distinctly clears, and the cool, salty breeze of Zambales overtakes you. Offbeat Pursuits kicked off the weekend trip with island-hopping, taking guests to small outlying islands which are hidden treasures in their own right! Some of these smaller islands are also beloved surf spots of locals.

 Overlooking the islands about to be visited.

 On one of the islands visited.

Flying. 

The day was spent swimming and snorkeling and generally enjoying the sunny Zambales weather. Boat transfers from island to island was care of Offbeat Pursuits; to support local communities, the company only use the services of the local boatmen. The first day was dedicated solely to island-hopping, and guests were afterwards brought to The Circle Hostel. 

 The Circle Hostel welcomes weekend trip visitors!

 Weekend trip made simple.

The hostel is a simple affair; mostly wood with an open-dorm/bunk design. A few dozen bunks are available, and each one comes with its own mosquito net and privacy curtains – great for a weekend trip. The bunks also go up to three layers high! Personal belongings are safely locked in a guest’s personal locker; just remember to bring a padlock.

The weekend trip Zambales adventure tour features a one-night stay at The Circle. Nights in Zambales are cool, breezy, and slightly humid but the relatively low temperature makes for a comfy stay. The Circle’s common area became a venue of relaxing reflection and a place to make new friends– something easy to do when on a weekend trip in Zambales with Offbeat Pursuits. The night was capped off with releasing sky lanterns into the clear Zambales night sky. The clean skyline lets one watch the lanterns go up really high, and for the more sentimental and/or spiritual weekenders, the very act of releasing the sky lanterns is liberating.

 Author about to release his sky lantern.

The second day of the weekend trip saw lots of skim-boarding, more swimming, and of course,surfing. Zambales is quite a popular surf spot, especially for newbies, because of its ‘friendly’ waves. The waves are neither terrifyingly high nor strong, making for a gentle and absolutely fun surf learning experience. The beach across The Circle Hostel is also significantly long; walks along the sandy beach takes a while to complete, giving one a great opportunity to just be one with nature. Guests are also given free reign to paint anywhere at The Circle – giving a little bit of themselves to the place.

 The Zambales weekend trip adventurers!

 Right before leaving for Manila.

The weekend trip neared its end with a quick shopping stopover at the Subic Freeport Zone. As part of the Zambales adventure package, dinner courtesy of Offbeat Pursuits was at Xtremely Xpresso, a popular dining spot in Subic. A quick meal later, and the weekend trip winds down, Manila-bound.

 Pretty much what the weekend trip was all about.

The Zambales adventure weekend trip by Offbeat Pursuits is perfectly suited for those who wish to ‘get away from it all’ for just one weekend. Sun, sea, surf, and so many friends to make, there is not a better way to spend a weekend than with Offbeat Pursuits and their Zambales weekend trip.

For more information on weekend schedules, bookings, reservations and other inquiries, Like Offbeat Pursuits on Facebook!

When Cebu City, please visit gregmelep.com

The First Northern Samar Boardsports Festival 2012

Written By Paula de los Reyes 

When in Manila, June 9, 2012, Catarman, Nortern Samar: The First Northern Samar Boardsports Festival 2012 has officially started on the 9th of June at the University of Eastern Philippines White Beach Resort. Together with the Local Government of Catarman, Northen Samar and with the support of  the Tourism office, the event kicked off and gained so much support from the local boardsports athletes of Northern Samar and neighboring provinces who participated in this momentous boardsports event of the year. The First Northern Samar Boardsports Festival gathered the best skimboard athletes across the country highlighting all the sport and giving the athletes a limelight in achieving there goal of becoming the first ever champion of the said competition. “It is the first ever national skimboarding competition in the province of Catarman”, Northern Samar says Ms. Josette Doctor, Tourism Officer of Northern Samar. The perfect white sand beach and point break waves of UEP’s pride is the home for the 1st Northern Samar Boardsports Festival. This spot is a treasure and we are looking forward to the University of Eastern Philippines officials to give the skimboard athletes to practice in this amazing and word class skim spot in Catarman, says Michael Eijansantos, Managing Director and EIC of Mylifeonboard.net. Dagz Hermosa from Talisay, Cebu took out the class A Skimboard finals over RiobenVivero, Obet Yunuario and Momay Cobacha all from Tanauan, Leyte.   Dagz Hermosa from Talisay Cebu taking on the final round over the best skimboarders of Talisay, Cebu. Photo courtesy of EmayOler. ” This is my first time here in Catarman, Northern Samar. I consider UEP White Beach as one of the best skim spots in the Philippines”, says Dagz Hermosa who’s career in the boardsports scene has been shaped up with his relentless passion and love for the sport. He also placed 2nd in the first ever 5km push race competition in Catarman, Northern Samar. In the Class B Skimboard Division, the “Push Master” Tito Sumicad, also from Talisay, Cebu hailed as the top skimboard athlete, nailing an outstanding performance over Rai-Rai “The Samurai” Etac, AbnerZaide and Ian Torio who are considered to be the most promising localskimboard athletes of Catarman Northern Samar.  Tito Sumicad’s first ever skimboarding competition. Photo by EmayOler. Dubbed as the “Push Master”, because of his unbeatable speed record in push race competition, Tito Sumicad dominated the 5km push race competition in Northern Samar. “Thank yo very much for giving this opportunity to compete here in Catarman, Northern Samar, thank you also to Mr. Mike of Mylifeonboard.net for helping the skimboard community”, says Tito Sumicad who’s hard work and dedication for boardsportspayed off.   Pushing his way to the finish line, Tito Sumicad is considered to be the best long distance longboard push racer in the Philippines. Photo by Jose Yniguez.   The Skateboarding scene in the province of Catarman, Northern Samar is slowly picking up its phase.Skateboarders from Tacloban and local skateboarders from nearby provinces conerge in this celebration of good vibes making it the biggest and the first  ever skateboard event in Northern Samar.  Janward F. Asis took all the supporting competition in skateboarding event. He won the bstrail, highest ollie, ollie gap challenge and dominating the game of skate class A category. The 1st Northern Samar Boardsports Festival was indeed an all out celebration of boardsports action making the province of Northern Samar a promising place for boardsports action in the country. The First Northern Samar Boardsports Festival is brought to you by Mylifeonboard.net, Malachi Skateboarding, Northern Samar Skimboarding Club and BBX Productions and presented by The Tourism Office of Northern Samar, University of Eastern Philippines, the Local Government of Northern Samar, Northern Samar Outdoor Federation and Governor Paul Daza. Sponsored by DC, Quiksilver and Roxy Philippines, Volcom Philippines, Free Energy Coop, Driftwood Local Ent. Fluid Surf, Son of a Beach, Joint OutdoorSkateshop and GrupoNopo. Media Partners: yours truly,wheninmanila.com, www.pinoyfitness.com, Samar Weekly Express, OneSport Magazine, Unbox.ph, Sprout Magazine, Blunt and mylifeonboard.net.

When in Cebu City, Philippines, please visit gregmelep.com

Top 10 Things To Do When in Batanes

Written By Aileen Adalid

When in Manila and looking for a new travel destination, how about looking into the possibility of visiting Batanes? It’s the northernmost group of islands here in the Philippines, best known for its untouched and unspoiled beauty that it has even earned a nomination in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The tickets can be a tad too expensive (more or less P8,000 for a one way trip) but do believe me when I say that it’s going to be worth it! This statement might come off as a biased one coming from me (seeing as Batanes is my lovely hometown) but head on to Google and search for reviews and you’ll surely see a lot of tourists singing praises! *beams with pride*

I was raised in Batanes for almost 15 years. Which means that I know my way around the island; so from a trueblood ‘Ivatan’ to you, here’s  a list of things that you should ABSOLUTELY do when you’re in Batanes:

1. Go to the beach in Batanes.

My best picks: Chadpidan Beach, Sabtang Beaches, and Nakabuang Beach. And yes sir, we do have beaches that can equal the beauty of Boracay! The perfect plan? Just lounge by the shore, have a picnic, grill some fish (try Batanes’ favorite fish: the ‘dibang‘ or flying fish), grab some booze and play some music!

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

And you shouldn’t leave the island without witnessing at least one sunrise and one sunset.

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

If you want a photo spree in one unique beach, try Valugan’s beach. There are these numerous large boulders that charms a lot of photographers.

2. Get to know the Ivatan people and their history and culture in Batanes.

Ivatans are probably the warmest people that you will ever meet in your whole life. They’re a bit shy at first but just strike up a conversation and they’ll be more than happy to answer your questions about Batanes. They might even offer to take you to a popular landmark, likeFundacion de Pacita Abad, the former house of internationally known artist Pacita Abad who was a trueblooded Ivatan, or bring you to the ruins of the Loran Station, a former US facility during the war.

Batanes also prides itself for its ‘almost‘ zero crime rate. For my 15 years of stay there, I can still remember the number of ‘cases’ and it doesn’t reach the count of five. I was so used to that way of living that when I started living permanently here in Manila, there was a phase where my friends would have to constantly exclaim, “Why aren’t you holding on to your bag? Don’t leave it all over the place!”

In fact, in Ivana, we also have this Honesty Coffee Shop where no one mans the store. We just list down the things that we want to buy and then we’ll drop our payment by the drop box.

TIP: You should meet Elo Hostallero in Sabtang (oldest man in Batanes) and Ida Estrella of in the house of Dakay (oldest house in Batanes).

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

3. Visit the other islands in Batanes.

Batan is the main part of Batanes that comprises of districts Basco to Imnajbu, but you should also head on to the two remaining inhabited islands: Sabtang and Itbayat. Ride a  falowa (Ivatan boat) to head on to these islands and you can even get to see dolphins during the wild and crazy boat ride.

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

4. See the stone houses in Batanes.

I remember someone asking me before: “So you guys live in caves?” I resisted the urge to laugh but, no, we don’t live in caves darling, but we do have stone houses.

In our language, we call our houses as ‘vahay‘ and as per Batanes history, the Spaniards taught us how to build them up using limestone and corals, and these stone houses could actually withstand strong typhoons and even earthquakes.

I’ve lived in the main municipality of Batanes which is Basco, a more urban place, and it almost has no stone house left. But there are stone houses in the other districts like Ivana and Mahatao, but it’s in Itbayat and Sabtang where you could see more of the stone house communities. (You should also check out the old churches!)

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

5. Get your ‘The Sound of Music‘ game on, head to the hills (or the mountains), hike, and do jump shots in between!

One does not simply leave Batanes without taking jump shots in one of the numerous picturesque spots—which is like… everywhere! One couldn’t even call it a ‘Batanes’ experience if you won’t take the opportunity of going on a hike.

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

My favorite place has always been the Naidi Hills (where you could also find the Basco lighthouse). I remember countless times when my classmates and I would roll down the hills and then I’d arrive home with bruises and bits of grass in my hair and on my clothes. (Island life FOR THE WIN!) Try to find time to also trek Mt. Iraya!

6. Drop by the island’s own ‘Marlboro Country’  in Batanes

We call it ‘Rakuh a Payaman‘ which showcases this breathtaking view of vast pasture lands with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop. 

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

7. Roam around in two wheels in Batanes.

This is a must! There are shops that lend you bicycles (I’m not sure for motorcycles), so go ahead and rent one and then travel along the winding and cliff-hugging roads that connects one district to the next. If you’re up for it, you can bike from Basco up to the end of Batan island which is Imnajbu; it’s a long bike, alright! But my friends and I have done this countless times and we usually finish in just half a day! So awesome!

Sidenote: I miss seeing these ‘Blow UR Horn‘ signs.

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

8. Go ‘top loading’  in Batanes

Go top loading on a jeep! It’s dangerous if you think about it: the jeep will be working its way through winding roads so I bet you have these visions of yourself getting thrown off the cliff or something. But I’ve never heard of someone dropping to his death due to top loading. It’s really fun! Try top loading too on a falowa while on your way to the other islands.

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

9. Try to attend at least one fiesta  in Batanes.

It gets really lively and you’ll get to see cultural presentations like the Palo-Palodance, Fundanggo, Sagalas and Gozos, and more! The main fiesta you should witness: Batanes Day (happens on June 26) and it’s usually a week-long celebration consisting of fairs, parades, sports festivals, and shows. (I miss watching bull fights in Mahatao!)

Other festivites: Ivana Fiesta (May 1), Uyugan Fiesta (May 10), Diptan Fiesta (June 13), Valugan Fiesta (June 27), Basco Fiesta (August 8), Mahatao Fiesta (November 4), etc.

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

10. Eat, eat, EAT  in Batanes!

As a seafood lover, I advise that you ABSOLUTELY try the payi (lobster), tatus (coconut crab), and dibang! Other fishes: arayu, doradu, mahi-mahi. Try the lataven a amung (kinilaw) too, a perfect pair for your bottle of beer!

Rootcrops: pinasu a wakay, dukay, gabi, and amay (mashed kamote and taro). And yes, never forget to try vunes (dried gabi) and uved (pork balls with flying fish and banana trunk). For the absolute experience: eat it with your hands, baby!

^{Photo by Opal Bala} 

There’s still a LOT of other things that you could do in Batanes, really. You could go scuba diving, surfing, and more. But When in Batanes, do these top 10 things and you’ll definitely have an EPIC and MEMORABLE time in this Philippine wonder. Guaranteed!

When in Cebu City, Philippines, please visit gregmelep.com