How to Create Your Do-It-Yourself Trip

I remember back in high school, our class adviser asked us to write an essay entitled "Who Will I Be 10 Years from Now?" With a happy heart, I composed my essay saying that in 10 Years, I'm already in Law School, pursuing my dream to be a pro bono lawyer for my beloved countrymen. (I ended up taking Accountancy instead and worked in the BPO and Hospitality Industry)  One by one, we all read what we've written in front of the class. It sounded like the usual chant of being professionals and being successful. It's understandable. Coming from a bunch of 13 year old minds, everybody have high hopes and soaring dreams. Then suddenly, one of my classmates stood in front of the class. With a confident voice, he professed that in 10 years, he had already traveled the whole world. It really took my attention. At first, I thought it was silly, not to mention impossible but for some reason, I couldn't take that out of my mind. It was an idea that had lingered up until now. Maybe because secretly, in what was then my young mind and up until today - I secretly wish to travel the world too. I hope that someday, I might just would. Who knows? For now, I am happy and contented in discovering the wonders of my homeland and it's neighboring countries through my do-it-yourself travels. DIY travel gives me a chance to go to different places without breaking the bank and it allows me to truly immerse myself with local culture of a certain place for I have the luxury of time and capability to decide where i want to spend it.

So how do I go about creating my Budget DIY travels?

First, I plan ahead. 

I avoid traveling on a whim. With this, I am able to take advantage of seat sales and discounted rates from various airlines and hotels. The philosophy here is simple, the rates are cheaper if you book in advance. 

The second key is Research. 

This is crucial. This is the part where you will base most of your decisions for the trip. Once you've decided where to go, start making the web your best friend. We're lucky that in this generation, we are likely to find everything we want to know through the net.

Researching on Flights: 

As mentioned earlier, planning ahead is better. There are times though that we have to leave right away and I learned that most of the time, it is cheaper to book with flight search engines. I had worked in the hospitality industry for a while and the concept is these companies buy in bulk that they're able to get big discounts. Naturally, their prices are cheaper too, that is how they pass the big savings to their customers. So if you must travel indefinitely, it wouldn't hurt to check out  flight search services like Flight Network for considerably lower rates.

Researching on Accommodation:

I first check on hotels with the lowest rates then from there, I do my research. I also consider hostels, inns or homestays. I prefer budget accommodations - cheap but at the least, decent and safe. Unless a trusted family member or a friend have assured me that their stay in that place is seamless, I make sure to check all the reviews I can find about a specific hotel/resort online. Reviews are subjective so be sensible too and trust your instinct when choosing where to stay.

Researching on Places to Visit: 

Let's face it. Traveling isn't the only thing we do in life. Usually, we are only presented a very limited time to travel so why not spend it wisely? That's when blogs of fellow travel bloggers come in handy. Their insights about a specific place give me an idea whether an attraction is worthwhile. It helps me decide whether to still go or just skip a destination. I take note of everything that seems interesting then list them in order. That way, I'll not miss to see what interests me the most.  Then, to further avoid losing that precious travel time, I try my best not to get lost (although it proved to be so much fun when it happened to me once). Some blogs even share directions on how to hop from one attraction to another. That is mostly useful. Just be patient in searching for these guides.

Third, I Set a Reasonable Budget.

Having made your research, you will now have an idea of how much money you would need to set aside for the trip. Mostly, expenses would be comprised of transportation,accommodation, food and entrance fees. Depending on where you're going, there are sometimes other fees like environmental fee, guide fee, the occasional tips and taxes for custom duties. You don't have to sweat searching or guessing for an exact amount, a ballpark figure would do but don't forget to bring extra for contingencies.

Lastly, I think positively and stay flexible.

I have to admit it. There were several times that what actually happened during my travel is different from what I originally planned. Typhoons, getting lost and other circumstances substantially changed if not totally expunged my original itinerary. Don't have a heavy heart when this happens. Having an itinerary is ideal but sometimes,  it's even more fulfilling when you have to roll with the changes. These circumstances along with what you witness around you are the experiences that will truly open your eyes and enrich you as a traveler. 

More than ten years had passed since my classmate and I started noticing our dreams of traveling the world. Neither of us fulfilled it - yet. Despite that, I'm really happy right now that in this hard times when earning isn't easy,  I'm still able to travel and doesn't have to spend much of that hard earned money. I'm thankful that I learned the concept of Do-It-Yourself travels. If not, my purse might have already hit the rock bottom purchasing expensive package tours since I can never give up traveling. Worse, I might have ended up not traveling at all. 

I hope to continue doing budget DIY travels in the future and have more beautiful travel memories to share in this blog. I hope you all do too. :)

My Five Most Favorite Romantic "Travel" Movies

It's February again! Needless to say it's the most romantic month of the year. Lovers from around the world would be falling in love once more as they proclaim their undying love with sweet and romantic gestures with each other. :)

What is the best way to celebrate Valentine's day together? If you'd ask me, it surely is still and will be an unforgettable travel together. Since my beau and I are currently in a time where we are so occupied preparing for probably what I could say is the most romantic day of our lives together, we would be skipping that this year and just wait right after the wedding (which is 15 days from now!)

For now, I'd be contented to watch these movies again that I fell in love with in the past years, one in a day. :) I call these romantic travel movies and by travel, I didn't mean just literally traveling but these movies show panoramic views of my dream destinations. That way, I would feel like I'm already traveling while feeling good about love. :) These movies are not just for love junkies though, even singles can enjoy this quite a lot. Why not give it a try and see what I mean?

1. BEFORE SUNRISE

After watching this, I wondered how the world is full of mysteries. Traveling opens us up to a lot of possibilities, even meeting someone who is intellectually different from us yet stimulating enough to get us interested, attracted and who knows?.. who would sweep us off our feet? Now that's destiny. :)



2.  OUTSOURCED

This movie led me to appreciate how colorful and beautiful the cultures in other countries are. The more reason for me to want to travel. :)



3.  CHASING LIBERTY

It seemed a bit unreal but I don't really care. Who doesn't love a happy ending anyway? Plus the landscapes of Austria, Prague and the rest of Europe are awesome!

My favorite part is when Ben asked Anna, " So if you're scared, why do it?" and Anna answered "Because the things you're scared of are usually the most worthwhile before bungee jumping into the river just below the bridge.



4. LEAP YEAR

No matter how we plan things, sometimes it wouldn't just work out, or it will but in a way we didn't expect it to happen. That happens in life and in love too. :)



5.  TAKE ME HOME

This movie showcased not only the beauty of America (from East Coast to West Coast) but also the lessons the characters learned from each other as well as from themselves while hitting the road.



*** Movie clips in this post are NOT mine and is owned by the respective owners who posted this in Youtube. *** 

Morong Bataan's Pamarta Bali Beach Resort in a Gloomy Weather

Life is fast paced and sometimes, when we get a chance to bond with family or have a breather, we often prefer to go somewhere near. Time is precious so most of the time, people won't want to spend most of it in the road. That's our utmost consideration during this bonding moment with the family. Pamarta is about 3 1/2 hours drive away from Manila as well as from my hometown in Nueva Ecija where my parents will be coming from.

It was one of those moments I always look forward to because it doesn't usually happen since my sister is working in Singapore. I'm staying here in Manila and my parents are in  the province where they are living like newlyweds again (without any children). My sister only had 2 days to spare since it was just a weekend vacation for her. This is a place she chose for us to go and I had to trust her instincts since nobody from our family had been here before.

We arrived in Pamarta Bali on a hot and humid afternoon. We drove on our way there and we kind of got lost despite the directions provided to us by the resort. Upon arriving, the caretakers seemed to be expecting us already and our nipa huts were both ready. We made a deposit prior to arrival to secure the reservation.

Pamarta is not a full service resort. It has basic amenities.   Instead of offering rooms for accommodation, they have built individual nipa huts that came in two sizes. The bigger hut can accommodate maximum of 5 people and the small hut has room for 3 people. The huts have just enough space for the allowed occupants as I've mentioned but might be a problem for people with a big built. We weren't that comfortable ourselves with the small huts considering we're thin. It wasn't air conditioned and  doesn't have it's own bathroom. They have a common bathroom/restroom that is obviously clean and well tended for. What I like about the huts is the attached sitting area with tables where you can have meals or hang out before deciding to sleep. Currently, they are constructing a building for more accommodation choices.

The resort also doesn't have a restaurant but they allow cooking for a fee. Their kitchen area is spacious enough but could be better if they have placed a roof in cases of rains. The following day we were there, it had been raining hard because of a typhoon that we didn't expect would hit the area and it proved to be so hard to cook with just a makeshift piece of tarpaulin that was used as a roof. They also have grills. They don't charge corkage for food brought in the resort. I appreciate that when we were cooking, the staff lent us some of their kitchen utensils that we forgot to bring.

The beach has a wide shore ideal for games or team building activities. As for us, we had fun trying to capture a perfect jump shot using a point and shoot camera. As expected, we were not able to get a decent one. The shore is a long stretch of gray fine sand and the water is clear. I'd seen better beaches though. The best feature of Pamarta is  probably the infinity pool and the jacuzzi. It was really lovely. It was the first time I went to a resort spending more time in the swimming pool rather than the beach. The water is perfectly warm for night swimming. We sat by the edge of the pool sipping a bottle of beer while sharing stories with each other. I only realized it wasn't allowed the next day when I read the signs posted near the pool.

That night before we slept, the weather was fine and we were so surprised that we woke up 5AM the following day because of the heavy rains. Turned out, a typhoon was affecting the area. I did check  the weather forecast before we went to this trip and I wasn't expecting a typhoon. The sea became turbulent with high swells and we weren't allowed by the resort's staff to swim there anymore. Even if they didn't, we were sane enough not to risk it but still glad about their warnings. The climate turned cold too but we were not to be stopped by the weather from having fun. We still swam in their pool that surprisingly still has the water warm. Even my parents did join us and we had a blast wading in the pool while it was raining. It's priceless.

We left Pamarta before lunch time realizing the weather wouldn't suddenly turn well. Since there's no space for us to move around in the huts after swimming, there was no point of us still lingering. Despite that, my family still had fun in the resort. I'm looking forward to getting back there, probably when their concrete rooms with own restroom is completed.

Here are the Rates in Pamarta

UPDATE: Rates I'm sharing here are the rates provided to me by the resort during our stay. For updated rates, please check the resort's website or Facebook page.

and the Driving Directions the resort emailed to us.

Take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) to Dau Exit then proceed to SCTEX all the way to Tipo Exit. Enter Subic (SBMA) passing by Subic Airport and Triboa Bay (APEC Villas). Exit at Morong Gate. Follow the Anvaya Cove signage then after Anvaya, go all the way to Morong Junction Crossing. Turn right then turn left after the old Morong church. Go straight ahead until you see Pamarta Bali Beach Resort. It is located right beside Gold Coast Beach Resort.

*** As I remember, you'd pass by unpaved narrow roads before reaching the resort.

The Blogger Would Like to Share: Tips on Creating Your Do-It-Yourself Travel

Cagayagan de Oro on Foot

Cagayan de Oro is a bustling city in the northern part of Mindanao. I've met some of the friendliest people here while traveling. Arriving in CDOlate the first day, we didn't have enough time to visit the attractions located on the outskirts of the city so we decided to get immersed with what can be found right at the very heart of the city. There are some interesting things to see and can be reached just by walking and so, our walking tour began.

The City Museum

This is  an old water tank converted into a museum in 2008. It is a product of the city's initiative for "adaptive reuse of a heritage structure". The water tank/tower was completed in 1922 and served as a reservoir of the old Municipality of Cagayan with water coming from Malasag Hills. It is located in the oldest section of the city where a settlement was established by Recollect missionaries. It withstood the heavy aerial bombings by American planes in Sept 1944. (source: a manuscript inside the museum)

The small museum has three levels. Picture taking is only allowed in the ground level where photos of famous Cagay-anons who made a big contribution to the city is on display. It also has some information about DXCC, a radio station of the city. The second and third floor hold photos of the lifestyle and events of the old city.

The City Museum of Cagayan is open from Mondays to Fridays, 9:30 - 5:00 PM. It is closed on Holidays, Saturdays and Sundays.

San Agustin Metropolitan Cathedral

The Cathedral is just a few steps away from the museum, almost beside it. It is a Roman Catholic church and is a sybol of deep faith of Cagay-anons.

Plaza Divisoria

This is probably the busiest area in the city. It is a plaza with several monuments surrounded by shady trees. Our hotel was located in this area and it was very convenient. There are a lot of restaurants built almost beside each other,as well as ukay-ukay stalls. Transportation is always available in this area.

During weekends, including Friday nights, it is the location host for the festive Divisoria Night. There are live on stage performances. A block of the plaza is also converted into an alfresco restaurant serving booze and grilled food. In the other area are tiannges perfect for scoring clothes, shoes and bags at a cheap price.

Xavier University (Ateneo de Cagayan)

Xavier University was founded in 1933. It is located near the other end of Plaza Divisoria.  Proper attire should be observed when planning to get inside the university for guards won't allow  you when wearing shorts/skirts 3 inches above the knee as well as spaghetti/scowl neck tops. You would have to leave an ID too. There's a chapel inside the university. There's a museum that's undergoing renovation when we were there. The atmosphere inside the university is relaxing.

When you get tire of walking, don't fret. There are several motorellas roaming around that can take you to your next destination. On our case, walking around proved to be a rewarding experience.

How to Go to Three of Iligan City's Waterfalls in One Day

During the last quarter of 2011, I had a chance of visiting three waterfalls found in Iligan City, also known as the City of Majestic Waterfalls. I only had a day so I tried to maximize my visit and researched on what are the falls located in the same area that is possible to see in justa day. Here's a guide on how to visit Ma. Christina Falls, Mimbalut Falls and Tinago Falls in one day when you're coming from Cagayan de Oro.

How to go to Ma. Christina Falls:

- dried fish stall in Iligan City Market -

• From your hotel in Cagayan de Oro, ride a jeep going to Bulua Terminal (Westbound Buses). Ride a bus going to Iligan City. Fare for an airconditioned bus is Php145 but the lady conductor said because it's their first trip, we only have to pay Php115 as a discounted rate. Not so sure why it works that way.
• The bus will have a final stop at their terminal in Iligan City. Ride a jeep that would take you to the market. There are queues waiting in the terminal. Fare is Php7.50.
• If you didn't bring lunch with you, you can buy it in the market There are local eateries (carinderia) that based on experience sell delicious, cheap and clean food. Bought kilawing tuna and lechon kawali and rice for a total of Php57. 
• Ride a jeep going to Buruun. These jeeps pass right across the street where the carinderias are located. Tell the driver to drop you off Ma. Christina Falls. fare is Php12.
• The driver will drop you on a highway, right after a bridge with a stunning view. From there, walk towards a street on the left that would lead you to the gate of Ma. Christina Nature Park.

How to go to Mimbalut Falls and Tinago Falls:

- the drop off point to Ma. Christina Falls -

• On that same bridge, ride a jeep with the same route (going to Buruun). Tell the driver that you're going to Mimbalut Falls. You will be dropped in a waiting shed where there are queue of motorcycles (habal-habal) that can take you to Mimbalut Falls. The path to the falls is not advisable for a walk, it's quite far.
• Negotiate with the motorcycle driver. We were charged Php125 each for both Mimbalut Falls, Tinago Falls and back to the highway where we can ride a jeep back to the terminal after the tour. 2 passengers in each motorcycle.

Ma. Cristina Falls and the Hydro Electric Power Plant

Every Filipino must surely know or heard about Ma. Cristina Falls. It is included in one of the earliest subjects being taught to elementary pupils.

The famous Falls is located in Iligan City, a progressive city in Lanao del Norte in Southern Philippines. It is a 320 feet falls with very strong water flow that is perfect as a source of hydroelectric energy. It is part of the  Agus River Power Development and is operated by National Power Corporation.

Arriving at the gate of  Ma. Cristina Falls Nature Park, we paid Php35 each for entrance fee and Php10 each for the shuttle that would take us to the top of the park where the spectacular view of the twin falls is awaiting appreciation. The open shuttle passed hilly terrains with a wonderful view of rich flora. The road is too narrow and there is a certain part that was partly blocked because of minor landslide. The ride was short but kind of breath taking. The shuttle stopped at the end of the street where the building of the power plant is erected. We were guided to climb a set of stairs that sometimes lead inside the building. On the third floor, there is an open area designed for tourists to view the falls. This is the nearest point one can get to the falls.

When we just arrived, only one the falls is open but it was already fascinating. A few minutes later, the second falls opened and is is truly strong, it's like the falls wanted everybody to know she's the mightiest falls and it's jaw dropping. Despite our distance, I felt the mist of the falls reach our area and dampens my skin. I can't wait to text my mom to let her know Ma. Cristina falls is right in front of my sight. She used to be a Grade 1 teacher and this is one of the topics she is familiar about. The guard I asked told me it's not all the time the power plant releases water from the dam constructed on the top of the falls, they usually release it during weekends when there's too much water stored thus they open both the falls.

The river where the falls drop has a very strong current that would be perfect for white water rafting. The sound it produces sounds like an adrenaline rush, non stoppable and exciting. It flows downwards where it meets with the sea under the bridge, the same bridge where you alight when commuting to this place.

Ma. Cristina Falls is something you won't want to miss when you're in Iligan City.

My Hopes for Batlag Falls

We, maybe are all familiar with the saying "Hitting two birds with one stone". That exactly is what you will experience when visiting Daranak Falls in Tanay Rizal, for in that same area just a 10 minute uphill walk is another falls equally worth visiting.

Batlag Falls is the strongest cascade out of several smaller falls in the area. Comparing to the other falls I've been to, the water flows gentler. The place is shady and offers a dreamy-like sensation with the cool breeze brought about by the several trees around the area. The smaller cascades scattered around made me feel like I'm a princess in a fairy tale wandering in the garden of my kingdom.

There are two pools created by the water flow ideal for swimming. The catch basin under Batlag falls is shallow, about 8 ft deep according to the caretaker of the falls. Some Korean tourists are happily swimming when I got there. On the left is another pool which is deeper, about 20 feet in depth. Moss grows abundantly in the moist rocks adding green to the surroundings. In some areas, vines are creeping in the trees and it the ground and it kind of looks like an enchanted forest as well.

There are cottages and a man-made swimming pool on the lower part of the falls area. The water flows directly from the mountains making it cold. The sight of the pool didn't quite appeal to me though, it seemed not to harmonize with the natural surrounding although I think it is a good addition for those who prefer the clearer water as the falls catch basin looked kind of murky to me, probably because of the rains the night before I visited.

One thing that makes me sad is the fact that when I got there, there are numerous cigarette butts scattered almost everywhere, some plastic wraps in some areas and in one area, a huge untidy pile of alcoholic beverage bottles. There's a string of artificial flowers adorning the falls which I think had been hanging there for quite a while for it isn't in good form anymore. I understand that was a props used by a TV show who had a shoot there but it wouldn't hurt removing it afterwards right? It isn't a good sight.  It kind of destroys the natural beauty of the place.The owner collects Php50 entrance fee and I couldn't imagine why this area can't be kept clean like Daranak Falls. I'm sorry for the word but after seeing the garbage area on the way to the swimming pool, I was totally disgusted and decided to go back to Daranak falls right away. I hope visitors and the owner as well, do both their share in preserving gifts like this. Other than than though, I still find Batlag Falls as a beautiful place and can just be improved more or at least, maintained.

For now, the beauty of Batlag Falls can still conceal the trash left about by irresponsible people but I'm hoping visitors and the owners both do their share.  If it get's cleaned up, this place will be a total charm,  a more enchanting place. You now that something we see only in our dreams as a perfect place? - that can be Batlag Fals.

Daranak Falls: The Pride of Tanay

I've been planning to visit Tanay, specifically Daranak Falls for the past few years. I happen to pass by the narrow road leading there from the highway going to Momarco Resort in 2008 and I promised to go back and see what Daranak Falls look like. I never knew whatever happened and I haven't gone there, not until after 4 years had passed.

It was a Tuesday morning when I arrived and I expected nobody would be there since it's a weekday. I was surprised that there are quite a number of people (mostly families and barkadas) already occupying the picnic tables and cottages, busy grilling meat and sea shells. It is a far comparison though during weekends, the tricycle driver told us guests would reach even a thousand during weekends.

There was a bridge at the back of the small structure where we paid entrance. It's the start of the water system. The water is shallow with rocks scattered on the riverbed. We walked straight to the falls and was amazed. I've seen pictures of Daranak Falls but it still is different when you're seeing it for real. It was nice knowing there's this waterfall just near Manila, a place that somewhat promises relief from the busy streets and lifestyle of Manila. What's best is it's a public area and the government of Tanay only asks for minimal entrance fee intended for the maintenance of the place. I believe they are doing a good job in keeping the place neat.  :)

It rained the day before we traveled to Tanay so the water, although greenish and clean is not clear. I wore my goggles and couldn't see anything underwater. The cascade of the water is strong and I got to enjoy a water back massage towards the end of my stay in the falls. We started swimming at 3PM after the sun was friendlier. That's when most of the visitors packed their lunch boxes and left the place. The water is cold and refreshing, a welcome contrast to the sunny weather. I waddled in the shallow part of the falls and floated in the deeper part of it. It was like I'm glaring at my childhood memories when I was spending my time carelessly and joyously.

Daranak Falls is one of the many reasons why tourists visit Tanay and I understand why. It is a grandeur that can easily be reached from Manila and definitely would offer a day filled with a bit of discovery and fun. :)

How to Go to Daranak Falls via commute:

There are vans going to Tanay parked in front of Star Mall in Crossing. When you're in EDSA facing the mall, you'd find the queue at the most right corner. Fare as of this writing is Php70. It took about 10 minutes to fill the van when we arrived at 9:30AM. Travel time took about 1 and 1/2 hours and stopped at the terminal in Plaza Aldea. Tricycles are available and would take you to Daranak Falls. Usual fare is Php200 per tricycle maximum of 5 people. During weekends,there are tricycle queues in front of the registration area of the falls to take you back to Plaza Aldea but on ordinary days, there's none and you might want to have an arrangement with the driver for a return trip back to the town. We paid Php300 for the two way trip for the two of us.

The Falls hours are from 8AM to 5PM. No overnight stays are allowed. Entrance is Php20 for adults and Php15 for kids. Picnic sheds/tables are being rented for Php100 for the entire day.

The Blogger Would Like to Share: Tips on Creating Your Do-It-Yourself Travel

Reminiscing my Extraordinary Romantic Getaways

Not everybody likes traveling but I bet everybody loves romance. It surely tickles even the innermost human nerves and then suddenly, it feels like you're floating in mid-air. :)

I've been in love for the past several years of my life. Friends always ask me what's the secret to keeping a long time relationship. To be honest, I don't really know, I'm not an expert in this department. I don't even think I'm pouring so much effort in this relationship but maybe it helps when there's a shared passion. I love traveling and he loves adventure, not much of a similarity but both come hand in hand. :) Not that I'm saying it's the magic but true enough, traveling and discovering new things together rekindle the flair every now and then. With that, let me share you two of the trips I consider most romantic  in our past years together (well, not really romantic since I spell romance with a-d-v-e-n-t-u-r-e). To set your expectation, you might not find it romantic at all, but never boring for sure.

Witnessing Sunrise at the top of Mt. Pulag

It was March 2005 when we reached the peak of Mt. Pulag, the highest peak in Luzon and the third in the Philippines. We joined common friends in their second attempt of witnessing themagnificent sunrise of this mountain.  Choosing to traverse the steep and mostly ascending Akiki Trail in our ascent, it wasn't a walk in the park, it was a truly tiring 2 days of walking and climbing experience. What made it awesome though is the changing views around. The mountain offered stunning views of lush pine forests gracefully standing along the cliffs, the mossy forest that doesn't allow sunlight to shine through the woods, the rolling grassy slopes and the dwarf bamboo trees. It was also super fun trekking with friends, who have contagious light spirits. To tell you the truth, I stayed most of the time inside the tent once we reached the campsite near the peak on the second night. It was so chilly that my thin body had a hard time coping with the frigid climate, nevertheless, it was a very enriching experience with Nikko and our friends. We woke up at 5am the following morning to climb from our campsite to the peak. There, we patiently waited for the sun to shine.  Nikko and I settled beside each other, then... the moment we've been waiting for was unfolding. It was the sun greeting us gloriously. I felt like I'm in heaven seeing the sun starting to illuminate  the sea of clouds resting all around us with it's gold rays. It was a magical moment.  It felt like the time stopped ticking and we we're just there for the soul purpose of realizing how wonderful God's creation is, and we're beside each other to witness it.

We quietly  stood next to each other, holding hands. He then kissed me on my forehead before saying he loves me. That even made it more beautiful for me. Witnessing the sunrise of Mt. Pulag with him is one thing that will always be special to me. We then have picture taking with our friends. :) Needless to say, Mt. Pulag's sunrise is what I consider the most romantic experience. :)

Treading the Unfamiliar Highway of Puerto Galera in the Dark

It was February of 2011 when we had our Puerto Galera trip. We stayed in the more quiet and intimate Tamaraw Beach Resort in  Aninuan Beach. Late afternoon on our first day in the resort, we decided to have a leisurely walk on the shore passing by a gorgeous view of a brook surrounded by lush greens with a background of the nearby mountains then the wide expanse of sandy shore in front of the Ayala-Zobel's property.

We crossed a boulder and before we knew it, we we're already walking the shores of Talipanan Beach, located at the far end of the beach stretch. There, we found Luca's, an Italian Restaurant built out of bamboo and nipa with the stunning view of the bluish sea and rocky cliffs. We had a filling dinner of pizza and pasta. We may have lost consciousness of the time and it turned dark without us noticing it. That's when we realized we didn't have flashlights with us to illuminate our path back to the resort.

We decided it wasn't safe to retrace our footsteps in the shore back to the resort. Earlier that afternoon, we crossed a narrow stream where the sea water flows directly into the brook. It wasn't too deep with the water just high above my knees but tides may change and there's always a possibility it might get deeper. It's unwise to go on specially with the darkness that set in. Our best option is the highway, hoping there are tricycles or any mode of transportation passing by the area. We asked direction from Luca's on how we'd reach the highway and they pointed us to a narrow path that turned ascending in a few minutes. With my camera almost emptly, I couldn't turn the LED lights on, instead we relied in the faint lights of our cellphones. Not very reliable but that's the best we've got. The highway is elevated, carved from the foot of the mountain, so in our right is the mountain and on the left is the cliff. Since it was dark, I didn't have a chance to see what I'm guessing is supposed to be a magnificent view. What I saw is a white figure of something slowly crossing the road, right in front of us, from the mountain side to the cliffs, then suddenly disappearing. I'm not joking, I had shivers at that moment but I didn't tell it to Nikko right away, he seemed not to see it. We continued walking and realized the highway is devoid of any lamp posts. It's totally pitch black, the moon might be resting that night. That was the first and only time in our relationship that I heard a bit of panick in Nikko's voice. Although he was trying to sound natural, he somewhat sounded really concerned. It was so creepy that the only thing we could see is  a small portion of the asphalted road where we were stepping. We continued. What made me at ease is his hand tightly holding mine. Although anxious, I'm pretty sure that we would arrive in Tamaraw Resort safely. After 20 minutes of walking in the dark, we started to see light posts, few but is a comfort to see.  We started to laugh at each other, sounds crazy I know but maybe we we're just so happy to finally surpass the dark.

After 5 minutes of lamp posts and houses though, the road started to be dark again but we were no longer afraid. We started sharing stories while walking and politely said no to a tricycle who stopped and offered us a ride. Then we reached a residential area of the highway again. In just a few minutes, we saw Tamaraw Beach Resort's convention Center and we were so thankful to finally make it, after 35 minutes of walking. We bought a beer and coke in Tamaraw's restaurant, sat in the chairs near the shore, played Bob Marley from Nikko's phone and ate the left ver pizza from Lucas. (Nakakagutom ang matakot, lol!) We started to relax and cuddle, can't get enough of sharing how each felt earlier. Our experience is more frightening than romantic but that experience led me closer to him and he to me. :)

There's a lot more to tell but these two are my definite favorites. I know romance would involve flowers, fancy dinners and surprises but on my experiences, these far exceeds my romance thermometer. It kept both our adrenaline pumping, our heart racing and it just drew us nearer each other, the natural way. :) Afterall, when you find someone who's happiness is as simple as yours and who finds it joyful holding your hands in silence while the sun is rising, or in this matter walking a deserted and dark highway (lol!) what's there to look for?

 Happy Valentines Day everyone! What's your story to share?