My Etsy Picks: Beach Essentials

Obviously, still couldn't get the beach vibe off my head.  My Etsy Picks this week?  Beach essentials, of course!

50s oversized brim straw hat : BTM Vintage

Turquesa Huichol ethnic necklace : Aida Coronado

vintage oversized sunglasses with UVprotection : mixbaby

70s tribal scarf tank : Vonlenska Vintage

50's floral bathing suit : aiseirigh

high-waist cut-off shorts : Vonlenska Vintage

yellow & white stripe tote : bayanhippo 

facial sunscreen with UVA/UBV SPF50  :  Moroccan Argan Oil

art printed flip flops : Rupy de Tequila

Beach Vibe at Urban Outfitters

Browsing over Urban Oufitter's Swim catalog makes me itch to go to the beach. Nope, I'm not a good swimmer, but how I love the waters and the sun.  These swimsuits are so adorable, I think :)

mixed print bikini ; striped swimsuit with bow
peplum one-piece swimsuit ; flower power bikini

Also found these light summer dresses that I think would be great for walks around the island while shopping souvenirs.  I'm imagining fresh breeze blowing on my hair while enjoying a tall glass of pinacolada under a cool shade.  Oh, how I wish we could pack our bags and fly to a beautiful island right this moment!  (this Weezer song, playing on mind as I'm typing this). So, are you dreaming of the beach too?    

floral tank dress ; striped tank dress ; quirky pattern sundress

Boracay Summer 2011

It was around this time last year when we made the trip to Boracay! It was surely one of the most memorable summers I've ever had and one that I will treasure for life! The place was wonderful but what made the trip even more amazing was that we were a family of nine enjoying the sun, the beach, the food, the good weather. . . we were having a blast and enjoying each others' company and love.

We got the chance to try out some thrilling activities for the first time.  I think for most of us in the group, it was the first time we ever tried snorkeling, banana-boat riding, helmet diving, and sailing. Everything went perfect for us that week and we spent four fantastic days on the beach.

Prior to this trip, I am not a huge fan of traveling because I often suffer from motion sickness whether I'm traveling by car, plane, or boat.  However, I am now more willing to brave these challenges to discover new places and gain new experiences.  It is such a pleasurable feeling to be awed by nature, to breathe fresh air, and unwind.  Of course, traveling with people you love makes the trip even more worthwhile. 

Oh, those good, old, lazy days.  I couldn't help but hear a soundtrack in my head.  Weezer was singing.  "On an island in the sun, we'll be playing and having fun, and it makes me feel so fine I can't control my brain..."

I'm waiting for the next time when we will be exploring another beautiful destination with my family.  I certainly hope we could do this again.... soon :)

Have you been to Boracay?
What unforgettable memories do you have from this place?

The Blue Lagoon in Pagudpod

The more than 12-hour-drive toward the far North of Ilocos was certainly worth the trip.   The blue and green waters, the view of the mountain, the white sand beach on a sunny day never fails to calm the nerves and waken the senses.  I have been waiting for this trip to come and was glad that we finally got to see Pagudpod.  Here are some of favorite shots from the place:

I'm always happy to be on the beach even though I still have yet learn how to swim.  Part of the adventure was when we headed for the two small islands.  Although it was just a short distance, the journey was not at all easy. 

We must have spent at least an hour as we carefully walked through the waters, rocks and seaweeds.  Strong waves we're coming in  and it was quite tough to stay put. 

Yet the view from the top of the hill was breathtaking!  These two rocks seemed like two hearts stranded on the island.  It felt real nice just to sit on the hill, surrounded by the sea, and take in the wondrous beauty of nature.  I wished we weren't constrained by time.

The biggest disappointment about our trip to Ilocos Norte was that we were not able to see the Windmills and the famous Patapat Bridge due to time constraints.  I was most excited to see the giant windmills in person but when we got there, the sun had gone down and it was too dark to see the view.  After Pagudpod, we headed back to Laoag.  It was another three-hour ride so we couldn't make it back the next day.  I hope we could see the Windmills and the Bridge next time.

Have you been to Pagudpod?  Have you been to these 2 small islands?  What were some of your most treasured moments here?