Revisiting Puting Buhangin and Kwebang Lampas

It was 2010 when I first visited Puting Buhangin and Kwebang Lampas in Pagbilao Quezon. Back then, the owners of the cove didn't allow guests to stay overnight. It was sad leaving the cove after just a few hours of lounging at the shore. The place is nothing but captivating, your sweet respite from the hassle and bustle of an urban jungle. It's a joy when I heard that the new and current owners of the cove (current because the land ownership is still on trial with the higher court) already allows beach camping and overnight stay. Without second thoughts, I decided it would be the perfect place to bond with my husband's siblings before her sister goes back to US and more importantly, to have our prenuptial photo taken. 

The first time I went there, I took a boat from Brgy. Bantigue as stated in my previous blog. This time, I decided to try the other route suggested by other bloggers that would involve a short boat ride and some trekking. 

Commuting to Puting Buhangin and Kwebang Lampas

Ride any Lucena bound (city capital of Quezon province) buses from Manila. We rode Lucena Lines stationed inside Araneta Center in Cubao and paid Php217. JAC Liner and Jam Liner both in their Buendia and Kamias Stations have hourly departures too. Travel time is around 3 and a half hours. 

Alight in Lucena Grand Terminal. Look for the queue of jeeps going to Pagbilao town. Travel will take around 20 minutes and  fare is Php10. The jeep will take you directly to their jeep teminal in Pagbilao near the market. 

On the same area, ride a jeep bound Ibabang Polo. Inform the driver you're going to Kwebang Lampas so he can drop you to the jump off point where you can start your trek to the cove. It took us about 45 minutes to arrive and paid Php40 each. Once you've alighted, please ask the locals to point you the way to make sure you're on the right path. We did it and the locals were very friendly and very eager to help.

Fares may change. It is what we paid on our trip last December 2012.

The Trek to the Cove

The trek would start on a concrete road that would lead you to what looks like a barrier in the middle of the road (It looks like a checkpoint without people manning it). From there, you'll start walking on rough and unpaved road with interesting views of hilly terrain.

The only sad thought is it seemed there's an ongoing mining in the area (I could be wrong though) that left several pits and expanse of barren brown land. It took us about 20 minutes of walking before we saw few houses. Walking towards the back of the houses, we arrived in what seemed to be a lake or a pond.

The locals said we can cross the lake by walking as it is shallow and just thigh deep. It looked wide and a bit murky so we kind of felt concerned for the two kids trekking with us. We don't want to gamble our safety so we decided to ride a small boat that helped us cross the water for just Php10 each.

Arriving at the other end of the lake, we continued treading until we saw a very gorgeous view of the rocks and the sea with the Pagbilao Power plant in the background. We stopped for a while for some photos.

We continued traversing with the visible pathway until we entered a forested area, slowly engulfed in the  thickness of the trees.  The trail is quite slippery because of the previous rain but is not so bad, although proper care is still advised. Our two kid companions was able to do it without any problems, I'm sure adults would find it easy. We continued walking until we arrived in the area with coconut trees, the grounds for Puting Buhangin, that is. :)

On Pitching Tents and Fees and Some Reminders

We were greeted by Mang Lando, the new caretaker of the the cove. He allowed us to choose our spot where we can pitch our tents. He also offered a small open hut with tables and chairs but politely declined, it's just too much for me. That night however, while we were cooking using our tiny camping stove, it rained. We were using umbrellas while cooking as not to get wet. Kuya Lando approached us and offered us to use the hut for free. Who would decline such an offer right? I feel grateful for his generosity. You may contact Mang Lando at 09475911630 or +639475911630 (from abroad).

After setting up tents, I also asked him about their other fees. I don't want to get surprises, if you know what I mean. 

Rates as of December 2012

Entrance Fee Day tour                                        Php50

Entrance Fee Overnight                                       Php100/night

Open Hut with Table and Benches                          Php400

Fresh Water                                      Php50/pail or bucket (I find it unreasonable)

Pitching Fee (Own tent)                                         Php150

Tent Rental                                                         Php300-500 depending on tent size

They have functional bathrooms/shower rooms but it is not clean. There's water stored in their big containers used to flush the toilet but is not for bathing purposes, again it is not clean.  There's no available drinking water so it is a must that you bring your own. There's no electricity and bonfire is prohibited when we went there (There's even a sign posted on a coconut tree informing guests there's a fine for violating this) so make sure to bring flashlights or headlamps to be able to move around at night and a camping lamp for your socials. Like in other remote places, mosquitoes can be notorious so insect repellent is handy. Locals say there's a jellyfish season in Puting Buhangin but we we're lucky during our visit, that it isn't. One of our kid companions  still got stung by a jellyfish though that caused him pain, swelling and redness in his arms. It's a good thing we brought vinegar just for this purpose. We applied some on his arms and a few hours later, he was back wading in the water.

The Cove

They say an experience could never be created twice and I agree with that. I know however that one thing can create a wonderful experience twice or more, it might not be on the same level but has the same intensity at some extent. I was mesmerized by Puting Buhangin and Kwebang Lampas when I first visited. (Please chick here to read my previous blog.) My second visit still left me in awe. It still is my happy beach - secluded, serene, beautiful. The emerald green water is still sparkling. The sand is still as white as ever. The shore is devoid of any debris or trash. The cave still has an amusing effect on me. My only disappointment is the vandals who left their names known to all guests by inscribing it in the stone walls. That's very irresponsible and uncivilized. Deep in my heart, I'm hoping this stops soon.

On the lighter note, I'm glad that Puting Buhangin retained its raw beauty. I could still sit in one area for a while just looking at the beauty before my eyes. It consumed me. Our several hours of travel was worth it. We stayed for three days and 2 nights and my favorite moment is the evenings when the full moon radiates it's glory to the sea and the white sand underwater illuminates and makes the sea sparkle against the dim night. The second night, the moon seemed to shy away leaving only the stars flaunt their beauty on the dark sky. It was priceless and romantic.

Our last day had the best weather so that's when we have our prenuptial photo shoot done. I didn't wear any make up. Fresh from swimming, I just slipped my dress and combed my salt water drenched hair. My then boyfriend (now husband) did the same and in a few minutes, we were wearing our best smiles and comfortably posed together in front of the camera. The photos turned out lovely, probably because our background is beautiful and we felt hopeless romantics in this gorgeous beach.

As the clock ticks on the third day, I am left quite sad knowing we'll be leaving soon. Our three days in this beach made me a kid again, carefree and spontaneous. Puting Buhangin and Kwebang Lampas is and will always be my happy beach.

Cagbalete Island Accommodation: The Old and New Resorts

Whenever I plan going on a trip, accommodation is one of the most important aspect of my research. As I was looking for the best place to stay in Cagbalete Island, I read from blogs that there are just three resorts right in the island offering accommodation. I chose the one that seems to have the best reviews, Villa Cleofas Resort. Arriving in the island, I learned that there are other three new resorts that just opened in the area, two of these I passed by when we were kayaking in the morning. More resorts mean more options and usually more options is better.

THE OLD RESORTS 

Villa Cleofas Resort

Contact #:  Tonet - +63 917-8395852 / Tess - +63 917-8143475

Website: www.cagbalete.net

Rates: Own Tent                                       Php 250/nt

           Tent Rental                                    Php 400/nt

           Bamboo Hut (6 pax)                      Php 1500/nt

           Studio type room (3 pax)               Php 2000/nt

           Small Cottage (8 pax)                    Php 2500/nt

           Medium Cottage (12 pax)              Php 3000/nt

           Big cottage(25 pax)                       Php 5500/nt

This is where we stayed. Originally, we planned on bringing our tents and camping in their grounds but sometimes, even to camping enthusiasts, the sound of being able to lie down in a soft mattress and pillows sound more appealing. Plus the fact that in getting a cottage, we would be able to recharge our phones and cameras when we need to.

These are the things I like about the resort.

-   It was very easy communicating with them. I just sent them a text message and  received a reply right away. Transacting with them is a breeze. Also, the caretakers are kind and always ready to serve.

-   The resort is lovely. There are umbrella trees dotting the beachfront with beach chairs and hammocks perfect for just lounging around, relaxation and bonding. The ground is covered with bermuda grass. The resort is so green.

-   Restrooms are not ensuite the cottages (but just located a few steps at the back of each) but I like that the shower room is separated from the comfort room. Water supply is strong.

-  They have a generator that runs from 6:30 PM to 5 AM that is probably located very far from the cottages. We didn't hear any sound from it. It was always a good night sleep.

-   They offer kayak and  volleyball activities that we enjoyed.

Things I believe the Resort Can Improve on

-   Don't expect too much on the cottage. For Php2500/nt, it is really bare except for the 2 stand fans and the floor where they will place the mattresses. It still worked well for us considering we're outside most of the time. The roof doesn't have a ceiling and that was what our problem was. There are constant particles (that looks like insect dungs) falling from the roof to our pillows and beddings. I'm sure it continually happened while we were asleep.

-  Some rates seemed unreasonable. We stayed 2 nights and cooked 5 times, cooking rice and a dish for each meal. We were charged a total of Php500 for Kitchen use/LPG,  Php100 for each meal. Thinking about it, we could buy a full tank of LPG by just adding 200 or 300 pesos and I'm quite sure we haven't used  even half of the tank. We didn't realize there's a charge for using their pots and pans too until we were about to check out and checked the charge slip. That was an additional Php200. So there, I feel that those rates are pricey.

Overall, we enjoyed our stay in Villa Cleofas. It is a lovely place. Despite feeling that we could have spent less, it is nothing compared to the beauty of the place and the fun we experienced in the island. So if asked if I'd recommend it to family and friends, ofcourse I will. Just make sure not to cook too much especially if you're not with a big group.

MVT Sto. Niño

Contact #: +63 921-7275398 / +63 927-7774828

Website: www.mvtstoninoresort.net

Rates: Tent                                              Php 250

           Bahay Kubo (2-4 pax)                 Php 1000

           Fan Room (4 pax)                        Php 1500

           Room with A/C (2 pax)                Php 2000

           Room with A/C (4 pax)                Php 2500

Pansacola Beach Resort

Contact #: +63 928-5058633

Website: www.facebook.com/pansacolabeachresort

Rates: Open Beach Hut (4 pax)                       Php 1200

           Tree House (6 pax)                              Php 2500

           Sawali House (10 pax)                         Php 2500

           Nipa Hut (10 pax)                                Php 2200

           Sasag House (12 pax)                          Php 3500 

           Agoho House (14 pax)                         Php 4000

           Buho House (20 pax)                           Php 4500

THE NEW RESORTS

An interesting fact: The owners of these three new resorts and the older Villa Cleofas Resort are all relatives. Apparently, the land was their inheritance from their grandmother. Wow! (On my wishful thinking mode: How about me being a long lost grand daughter lol!) That explains why these resorts are located right beside each other. Facing the beach, on the left most side is Villa Cleofas, on the far right is Joven Blue Sea Resort then Villa Noe. Lastly, on the right most side is Doña Choleng Resort. (Source: Ryan Manaog, owner of Doña Choleng Camping Resort)

Doña Choleng Camping Resort

Contact #: Ryan - +63 910-8823346 / Maybel - +63 928-2569919

Website: http://www.donacholeng.com/

 Rates:  Tent (2-3 pax)                                      Php400 - Php500
             Open Bali Hut                                     Php1000
               Bali Hut (with Electric Fan, 4-6 pax))        Php2000

             Room with aircon (6-8 pax)                     Php4500

             Room with aircon (18-20 pax)                  Php8000

I haven't had a chance to stay in this resort yet but Ryan, the owner of the resort offered me a free accommodation (as seen in the comments section of this blog). I thought that was very generous considering I didn't blog about Doña Choleng alone but the other resorts as well. Since I don't have definite plans on going back to Cagbalete yet and can't blog about an experience with them, I sent him a thank you text message and a request for photos and more info about their resort so I can update my blog. That way, readers would learn more about the resort and might help them in deciding where to stay. I was surprised not to receive a reply by text message, that's because he called instead. :) I appreciate the call specially when I learned that they have around hundred of guests in the resort that day. A company was having their outing in the resort. They must have been quite busy.

Doña Choleng is a fairly new resort that opened its doors only this March. Based on experience staying on hotels/resorts, new is always better. New rooms would usually entail new mattresses, new bedding and new everything - that can usually provide a more comfortable stay.

The resort is located at the Southeastern part of the island where one can have a panoramic view of sunrise. Their beachfront is on the stretch of powdery white sand and crystal clear water, thus I believe is their Slogan: The Boracay of the Pacific Ocean. I've been to Boracay too and I'd say both Boracay and Cagbalete have their own charms.

They have different accommodation options that cater to different needs of their guests. First is their Bali huts that is cooled by an electric fan and what I'm thinking is the natural air coming in from the windows. With a small double bed (based on UK and Ireland bed sizes standard) plus a bunk bed with 2 foams in both sizes, the bali huts can accommodate 4-6 people. One of their air conditioned rooms have 3 double beds (US size - also where we base our bed sizes here in the Philippines) and the allow maximum of 8 guests in this room.

From Sabang Port, one can reach it through a 15 minute trek. Worry not to get lost because the resort have their own "salubong boys" who will fetch guests from Sabang.

If you're thinking about bringing your own food, you can do so without having to pay any corkage. For some who would prefer to be pampered and do nothing but relax, you can make arrangements with the resort's staff. They could provide you a whole day's meal for Php800/head. That includes 3 meals and 2 snacks.

I've only been to Cagbalete once and stayed in Villa Cleofas, which I think had already been an institution for accommodation in the island. On my future visit, I am looking forward to stay here in Doña Choleng Resort to experience the difference. As they say, change is always exciting. :)

Joven Blue Sea Beach Resort

Contact #: +63 939-2899752/ +63 917-9848505

Email: jtbluesea@gmail.com

It is on the same stretch of beach (the same side) as of Villa Cleofas. I passed by this resort when I was kayaking but I was too far I only saw the open huts near the shore.

Villa Noe Beach Resort

I received an email from Ms. Lorie of Villa Noe last Feb 5 2014 providing their new contact numbers. Here's Villa Noe's updated contacts.

Contact #: +63 905-5193847 / +63 909-5241773 / +63 929-2176971 

Website: www.villanoe.com

Rates:  Bring your own tent                         Php100

           Tent Rental                                      Php 400 - 600/night

           Cottages                                          Php2000 - 3000/night

Cagbalete Island: A Perfect Summer Getaway

It's officially summer time in our dear archipelago! For some, summer is synonymous with vacation. It is the time of the year perfect for lazying around, getting a tan or visiting places without worrying for turbulent seas or erratic weather. It is the ultimate time for bonding and relaxation. In short, summer is fun.

Our country is composed of around 7,100 islands, all beautiful and uniquely mesmerizing so we will never run out of new places to spend our vacation with. I recently had a chance to visit one with my friends, the lovely Cagbalete Island. I'm sure this island is already known to a lot of people. Surprisingly, when we were there, the side of the island where we stayed was so deserted that it felt like we own the island.

Cagbalete Island is in Mauban Quezon, a getaway that can be reached in about 6 hours total travel time from Manila. It is an island surrounded with rich water, a combination of fine and grainy cream sand, and a home to disciplined people as seen by how clean the shores (and even Sabang port) are.

Getting There

There are a number of ways in getting to the island but I will be more specific on my own experience traveling to the island.

JAC Liner, JAM Liner and Lucena Lines have bus terminals in the Cubao area. We chose JAC Liner. Their station is in Kamias, can be found on your right when traveling Northbound in EDSA. JAM Liner's terminal can be found opposite to their station. Lucena buses on the other hand are located inside Araneta Center in Cubao. We planned on taking JAC's direct buses to Mauban Quezon but their website isn't updated so what's written there as an hourly trip starting from 5 AM to 2 PM is not accurate. They only have 2 trips, 5 AM and 12 NN. Because of that, we rode their bus headed to Lucena City (Quezon province's capital City). The ride took about 4 hours and 30 mins. Fare was Php218. Then we alighted in SM Lucena.

From SM Lucena, we rode a van going to Mauban. Fare was Php65. It was a fast 45 minute ride considering I was expecting an hour and 30minute travel time. Last trip of vans headed to Mauban is 9PM and from Mauban to SM Lucena is 5PM. Buses are also available in Grand Central Terminal in Lucena City (not in SM) for a cheaper fare but I'm sure will definitely be a longer ride. (Fare as of April 23, 2013 is Php54).

From Mauban Market where the van dropped us, we walked our way to Pantalan (Mauban Port) to board the ferry going to Sabang Port (Mauban Island) It is a short walk. We registered and paid a Php100 fee to Frances, the lady manning the Tourism Booth. The Php100 fee is a total for environmental fee - Php40, Terminal Fee - Php30 and take note, a Porter fee of Php30. So if the porters try and help you carry your luggage, don't be alarmed or shy - they are just doing their job and won't ask you for any tip or additional fee.

We paid the Php40 ferry fare directly to conductor of the ferry. Frances told me that they used to collect the fare in the tourism booth too but since they would be increasing the ferry fares soon and are just waiting for the tickets with the printing of the new fares to arrive, they just let the conductor collect it on their end. So expect a fare hike in your future visit. (Update: My sister in law traveled to the island on April 23 2013 and paid Php50. She and her companions weren't charged a porter fee though.) We arrived in Sabang Port in 45 minutes. There are only 2 trips going to and from Cagbalete, 10AM and 4PM to the island and 7AM and 1PM back to Mauban. It is advisable to be there earlier because they leave as soon as the ferries are full.

The Island

Our ferry, Neneng can't dock near the shore since the water is low. We transferred to a smaller boat with a flat bottom. From there we we're guided by Kuya Wilmer in our 20 minute trek to the resort since it was located on the other side of the island. It was an easy trail. Sometimes though, the trail becomes really muddy in some parts and there are a few fork trails so it's advisable to have a guide the first time you're trekking.

The resort is a picture of serenity. It’s almost deserted except for four other campers who left the following day and proved to be pigs. I’m sorry for the term, but the day they left, they also left their pile of snack wrappers, cigarette butts, paper plates and glasses scattered on the seashore just beside the tents they rented.  This literally caused my blood pressure to rise. How could people be so irresponsible leaving their trash for other people to clean it up for them?

For accommodation options, please check Accommodations in Cagbalete.

We stayed in the Eastern side of the island. Photo enthusiasts would be glad to stay here to capture the beautiful sunrise. It is a perfect spot to lounge in the hammocks hanging under the umbrella trees. The wind seems to always invite me to sleep but I didn't give in, afterall, we just stayed for two nights in the island and time is better spent exploring the place. It was high tide when we arrived the first day but come night time, the water recedes very far leaving the almost white sand shimmering under the full moon.

The following day, we explored Bonsai Island, an island directly located in front of Villa Cleofas Resort. It is an island with a panoramic view of flat bed rocks and some bonsai looking plants in the middle of the island, thus the name Bonsai Island. The whole island is submerged in water during high tide and can only be accessed during low tide. I would say, it is another haven for photography enthusiasts. Shortly after we arrived, we noticed the water slowly creeping in, a sign that it soon will be high tide gain. High tide is more frequent in the island during full moon, as what the caretaker told us. If you think about it, it makes sense.

After that, we decided to explore the Northern part of the island where MVT Sto. Nino Resort is.  The shore is significantly shorter in that side of the island compared to the beachfront of Villa Cleofas. There are several driftwood with interesting shapes and the sand is surprisingly finer in that part of the island. The water is higher too so we waded our way to the water and joyously swam to our hearts content. The water is cold and warm at the same time. Warm on top and cold in the bottom. It is near a creek or maybe a river so I thought it maybe a brackish water (a combination of salt and fresh water) causing for the interesting difference in the water temperature.

The following morning, it was high tide still and we decided to kayak, going to the Southern part of the island. The water is so clear in this part, I could see the bottom even in the deep part of the beach. We passed by two new resorts. It was a good one hour of kayaking when we decided to go back before we get burned by the scorching sun. It was a perfect decision since by the time we got back in the shore, it was almost low tide. The famous sand ripples came into sight and another photo ops with a lot of jump shots started.

There are several activities you can do in the Cagbalete Island, except nightlife. It is a peaceful haven for people looking for solitude. It is a place to retreat and bond with special people or just a place to lounge and feel the caress of nature. I really loved my stay here. It was truly relaxing and fun. Sometimes, your travel companions would make a lot of difference with how you would perceive your experience with a specific place and this time, I am just so thankful that everything was great. :)

Nagsasa Cove: Another Gem in Zambales

The week before the date going to Nagsasa Cove had been really stressful for me. Being in charge of almost everything, I started working on our expenses, collected funds, started doing the grocery, buying our food in the market, even accompanying friends hunting for affordable tents that will be used in our camping. I, together with Ynah also cooked our group's packed lunch prior to leaving for the bus station. The good thing is, Nikko was always there to assist me with almost everything.^_^

Those are the things you have to look into when planning to go to Nagsasa Cove. Like Anawangin, there are no facilities/amenities in the area except for a faucet and restrooms. You really need to bring every possible thing that you'd need specially drinking water and food. Regardless of that fact though, the place is still often flocked by people who learned of the place for it boasts of a very wide coastline, peace and relaxation.




Our plan was to leave Manila through Victory Liner located in Pasay. Last trip going to Iba is 11:30 PM so before that time, we all were already there. As I was buying the ticket for everyone of us, I overheard the girl behind me talking to her friends. They were also headed to San Antonio and they are a big group as well. I'm really thankful that I arrived earlier than her and was in line first, otherwise, we won't be able to leave that night. The last seats of the bus were sold to me. After the 11:30 trip, you'll have to wait for the 5AM trip the following day. Maybe, if you're planning on a trip like this, it will pay to buy the tickets in advance especially when you're with a big group. ^_^




We arrived in the town of San Antonio at around three in the morning. Mang Alfring (thesame boat service I used in Anawangin and Capones) sent me a message to drop by the Local police office first to register our names. That maybe, is a safety precaution if something happens. We we're then fetched by tricycles (which was arranged by Mang Romeo - Mang Alfring's son for us)to bring us to Brgy. Pundaquit, the jump off point to Nagsasa Cove. We waited for the break of dawn in the shores of the beach before riding the boat taking us to the cove. I made sure I texted my parents before I hopped into the boat because there's no cellphone signal in Nagsasa.

I was so sleepy since I didn't even had a nap the day and night before. The calmness of the water induced me to sleeping in the boat. I didn't know how I managed to sleep sitting but I really dozed off, for few minutes, waking up just before our boat docked the extensive shores of the cove.






We had breakfast ( champorado and cupcakes fom Gen) with our boatmen before setting up camp. Some hit the beach right away, while others were organizing our things. I, on the otherhand lay down on a bamboo table under the agoho trees to steal a nap. I wasn't successful though.

The day was spent cooking, swimming and just exploring the area. The boys also tried skimboarding and were mostly occupied playing Ultimate (frisbee). What occupied us girls was far more interesting,:D since we have to endure the dizzying effect of Gen's concoction. lol! Nobody got drunk though. The first day was a blast! When I looked into everyone's faces, I can tell they were all having fun.










When we woke up the next day, we waited for the fisherman that is said to sometimes drop by the area to offer their catch to campers. Truthfully enough, they arrived.






We hurriedly walked to the knee high waters since they can't dock closer to the shore. We were busy checking out their catch, with Eileen haggling the price of the fish very well. We're also able to get a freebie (2 pcs of fish) free. Being a restaurant manager, maybe that's her forte and we just couldn't thank enough that she's there, lol!






The guys cleaned what we bought and prepared the grill while us, girls, prepared the stir-fry vegetables. That's a very sumptuous combination for lunch that everybody got to enjoy. After resting, we settled to go and check out the said "mini waterfalls" at the mountains on the opposite end of the cove.




We walked further, noticing more of Nagsasa's charm. There was a part where the sea water flows into a basin where fresh and salt water meets. The beauty is almost enchanting. With the mountains on the background and agoho trees (pine like trees) everywhere, you'd really tell yourself that the Philippines is a very beautiful country.




We needed a guide to bring us to the "mini waterfalls". We met the locals (Aetas) on our way and had a bit of chat with them. They were drinking gin without chasers and some of the guys were invited to drink and I think it's Kuya Dave that obliged.




We were given a guide and was asked to pay minimum of Php50 but at the end, we decided to give him Php150 anyway. I have to tell you though, I'm not impressed with the mini waterfall at all, the catch basin is almost dry and there's almost no water flowing into it. I felt like it was a waste of time. What I got to enjoy though is the view from the higher grounds of the mountain. You get a nice view of the cove from there.






When the night time came, I had the worst migraine of my life. I took 2 pain relieving capsules yet it didn't work its purpose. As everybody's having fun eating marshmallows and drinking around a bonfire, I was confined inside my tent, trying to sleep and hoping resting would take the pain away. I could hear the loud laughters outside since they were playing charades and I so wish that I'd feel even a little better so I could join them. Unluckily for me, they already called the night a quits but my head was still pounding very hard. :(




I slept so late and woke up a little later than usual. Breakfast was already being served. :) After breakfast, I headed to the beach. I didn't know how to swim or just float when we went to Nagsasa so I told myself, I'll never go home unless I learn how to just even float. I don't know if it's Nikko's patience or my determination to learn that paid off, but I eventually learned how to float before we headed home. I just told myself while in the waters, I don't care if a lot of water goes into my ears (which happened to me when I was a kid), or if I swallow water or if I drown.. I just want to do it and be done with it. So that's one thing that I'll always remember about Nagsasa Cove besides its pristine waters and beauty, that's where I learned how to conquer my fear and learned ow to float.




Lunch time and our boats arrived to take us back to Pundaquit. There's this feel that almost everybody didn't want to leave yet, but since we have to, what can we do? haha! In the seas going back, the water was really rough! Boats are swaying wildly and I know our boats might be toppled anytime. The comfort came from knowing that our boatmen are skillful enough and we were all wearing life jackets. Thank God since we arrived in Pundaquit and in Manila all safe and sound - tired but happy for the time spent together in a place that's almost a paradise.

And oh, we only spent Php2000 for two nights and three days, another proof that cheap can be wonderful. ^_^