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?

Jagged Rock Formations of Pangil

On our last day, we stopped by Brgy. Pangil Currimao, Ilocos Norte to have lunch and see the rock formations. It got its name Pangil (fang) because of the jagged rocks which can really wound you if you're not careful.  

The rocky shore extends throughout the length of the road.  These little caves are a home to small fishes and yes, we were able to spot some fishes in the water but my cam wasn't  made to get clear shots underwater. 

The sun was pretty strong but the wind felt cool as it blew on our faces.  It was a beautiful day with blue skies.

After thirty minutes, it was time to go.  We're traveling back to Ilocos Sur, on our way home to Baguio.  Our next stop: Baluarte and Vigan.

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?

Travel Back In Time in Vigan

I would like to share some photos I took from our Ilocos trip last month, starting with these shots from Vigan. Vigan is the capital city of Ilocos Sur and is the only surviving historic city with structures dating back to the 15th century when the Philippines was under the Spanish colonization.

I am so amazed at how the old structures have been preserved up to this day.  Vintage lovers would surely fall in love with this place.

Guests can ride a calesa - a carriage pulled by a horse, which was the main road transportation during the Spanish era.  We didn't get the chance to ride at all.  I had never experienced a calesa ride but there wasn't enough time.  We were on our way back to Baguio city so we just had a very brief stopover.

I felt so bad that we could only spend 15 minutes to catch a glimpse of this city.  I wished we couldn't stayed longer.  I wouldn't mind spending the whole day walking around with my DSLR camera.  There's just so many details that I would've liked to photograph.  I am definitely going back to this place to really take a tour and spend a lot more time discovering every nook and cranny.  

Have you been to Vigan?
What fond memories do you have of this place?