Bucas Grande | Sohoton Cove: Raw and Beguiling

An overview of a portion of Sohoton Cove

This is one of the places where you had to know the right time to visit. Access to Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande is only during low tide. Coming from Tundan Cave, we went back to Sohoton Bay Resort for a short lunch break before returning for the cove in the early afternoon. I was already impressed with what I’ve seen of Bucas Grande in general. The low round karst hills and islets reminds me of chocolate hills but this one over the majestic Palawan blue waters. That’s until we passed through the 40-meter low cave and entered the world of Sohoton Cove.

Continue Reading

Ilocos Norte: Attractions of the North You Won’t Get Tired of Revisiting

Saud White Beach

Scenic drives, sumptuous Ilocano cuisines, rich heritage, awe-inspiring megastructures and stunning landscape are some of the reasons which makes Ilocos Norte an all-time favorite for travelers. Memories of Ilocos Norte goes way back to my childhood road trips with family. Even if I had been here countless times, its always a welcome visit to this northern region. The recent Lakbay Norte 7 had me revisit the familiar places again with new companions this time. In just a day, we had the exciting rides at the La Paz Sand Dunes, to marveling the gigantic windmills of Bangui and a fun swim at Saud White Beach of Pagudpud.

Continue Reading

Tawi-tawi | Panampangan Island: PH Longest Sandbar with Fine White Sands

Aerial view of Panampangan Island

It took me three visits to Tawi-tawi before I finally set foot on the famed Panampangan Island. It’s not an easy island to reach like most of the islands in the region. Hiring boats have a hefty cost especially for independent travelers. An invitation to cover the Kamahardikaan 2017 festivity includes a visit to the island. It was an opportunity that’s hard to pass. Panampangan Island is considered the longest sandbar in the country.

Continue Reading

5 Little Known Islands in the Philippines

ironwulf-batanes-air

With its warm, tropical climate and friendly people, the Philippines is gaining a reputation as a must-see destination in Southeast Asia.

While most travelers have been to the capital Manila and experienced its bustling streets and great cuisine, few of them have ventured out to experience the country’s beautiful tropical islands – and there are more than 7,000 of them to choose from.

Here are five of our favorite islands in the Philippines that you’ve probably never heard of, and should definitely visit.

Continue Reading

Lakbay Norte VI Part 5: Through High Water and Back

Celine and Gretchen taking in the view at Palaui Island

That Friday morning, we all prayed hard for sun and blue skies. After the drenching of yesterday, still vivid and sharp, we wanted nothing more to do with rain. And as though the echo of our collective pleas reverberated throughout the divine plane, the roiling clouds started to ease. As a result, we hurried to board our designated motorboats.

Continue Reading

Bataan | Aroma Beach Hideaway: Your Semi-Private Cove for a Night or Two

Approaching Aroma Beach Hideaway

Weekend escapes usually entails some planning – from where to go, how to get there, what food to bring and where to stay. The choice for weekend trips from Manila are usually at the popular beaches of Batangas, Zambales and Quezon. What if I tell you there’s a tranquil and secluded cove only 3–4 hours away from Manila that you just have to conveniently bring yourself and not think about the food or the place to stay? Aroma Beach Hideaway is tucked in between Morong and Bagac at underrated Bataan. Managed by Bataan Nature Adventure, they emphasize on just enjoying your time at their beautiful cove and let them handle the rest.

Continue Reading

Biliran | Sambawan Island: Scenic Hills and Rustic Beach

View from the hill at Samabawan Island

Purple hues enveloped the sky as I watch over the ocean greeting the sun good morning at Sambawan Island. I am mindful of the tide’s ebb and flow at the beach below, the grass swaying from the breeze, the cool air touching my skin and gently the warm light creeping in the hut where I’m seated. Such a calm morning up the highest point of the island where I have a full panoramic view of the surrounding sea. The volcanic Maripipi island looms over like a big brother.

Continue Reading