“This is crazy!” I said aloud as I look in amazement at the dense school of fish gathering by the jetty on this side of Long Beach. Never have I seen something like it on land. A large school of fish gathering a few hundred meters as if ready to invade the extensive white sand of Long Beach Perhentian Kecil.
Tag: Islands
Perhentian Islands: Wind Down at Coral Bay Beach by Senja Bay Resort
It was like living on a tree house! The wooden cottages blended well with the vegetation sloping gradually along the treeline. Our cottage was one of the higher ones and we had to do a bit of a stair climb, but it was okay as it was amusing to see some squirels scurrying on the sides. We came to Coral Bay Beach without any reservations but we were lucky enough to stumble upon Senja Bay Resort which was offering an off-peak promo at that time. For RM 80/night for a twin bed room, we took the offer and became our home for two nights in Perhentian Kecil.
Batanes: Sunrise at Mt Karoboboan and Sidetrip to Paganaman Port
We marvelled at the stars, shining plentifully at the sky. Something we don’t see in an urban night. We played around with the stargazers on our phones figuring out the constellations, the position of the stars in the wee hours of the morning while waiting for our dump truck service to arrive. Despite the gizmos in our hands, there was no electricity in Itbayat at 4am as it runs from 12noon to 12 midnight only. We were headed to one of the mountains in the island, Mt Karoboboan. Usual program from tourism here is they take people to the peak at sunset. But since we didn’t have time the day before, we decided to go on a sunrise.
Batanes: Awed at Torongan Cave and Hills, Itbayat Island
The view of the Pacific Ocean, the deep jagged cliffs from the island where I’m standing and Dinem Island, cutting through the ocean like a knife’s edge was stupendous. Here at the farthest inhabitable, northern island of Itbayat, I’m just lost for words on how I can describe the beauty I’m seeing from Torongan Hills. If I had my way, I can spend an idle afternoon here just looking at the sea and passing clouds. It was one of those moments that I’m so proud of the Philippines for having places like this.
Batanes: Changing Winds, Barf Bags and Sailing to Itbayat
Up to the last-minute, we weren’t sure if we’re pushing through Itbayat on our second day. While having dinner the previous night at the Bunker in Naidi Hills, we watched how the wind threw monobloc chairs and tables making us think of a backup plan in case we don’t push through. But waking up the next day, our guide Joaquin, excitedly informed us and showed in the internet how the wind has slowed down and changed direction. That means we can push through with our Itbayat. So the group got ready for the overnight stay on one of the largest upheaved coral in the world, Itbayat Island.
Batanes: Postcards from Sabtang Island
It was the peak season alright for Holy Week in Batanes and our trip almost didn’t push through but thank God (and Seair) for helping us secure our flights. Albeit shortened, we made do with our time, maximizing moments to take photos and enjoy the scenery. I’ve written about Batanes so many times already in this blog so I’ll just share some memorable takes during our recent Backpack Photography 3-Island Photo Tour. These ones from the small but charming Sabtang Island.
Surigao del Sur: Serendipity Strikes in Hagonoy Island
It was unbelievable how soft the shore was. It’s not really white but it felt like I was walking on very soft foam. My feet gently sinking on the perfectly fine sands as I made my way around the west side perimeter of the Island. I can’t remember the last time I had a pleasurable walk on sand that I wish there were more on this little Island of Hagonoy. But I may be asking too much. We already have almost the whole island to ourselves this morning except for Aling Ambing and her helpers.
