As an expat in the Philippines, one of my goals is to explore as much of this country as I possibly can before we leave. You see expat life is transient and one day we will be moving on. I like to share my travel stories with readers to encourage them to explore, step out of their comfort zone and become more familiar with the culture, the people and the land they are guests of.
Siquijor, island of mystical beauty. That is how it was described once, long ago and it’s true. Rolling green mountains, cascading waterfalls, and some of the friendliest people I’ve come across here in the Philippines.
Quite a few people have that dream of hiking up into the Kalinga tribes and getting a tradition tattoo by the one and only Whang-Od. Problem is she is totally exploited now, and that is not nice. But you can still get a traditional Kalinga tattoo – right here at Pinto Art Museum, Antipolo, in a simple to do day trip.
If you love the romanticism of the Kawa Bath but don’t want to travel so far to have one, don’t worry, you can visit El Patio Razon right here in Tanay. Enjoy your own hot bath overlooking the beautiful Sierra Madre Mountains. It really is a gorgeous day trip.
If you want to break up your drive in Palawan, be sure to check out Olanguan Falls. Lovely multi-tiered waterfalls that are an easy walk to find. Swim in the cool mountain waters, and relax in a bamboo cabana. Definitely worth checking out if you are in the area.
I think I have found it, I think I have actually found paradise. Pale turquoise water glistens like gemstones, it is perfectly calm and the sand soft like baby powder. This is heaven. This is Modessa Island.
Whether taking a road trip or catching a flight, travel with kids is always going to be interesting – in both a fun and exciting way, and also in an ‘OMG what have we done’ kind of way. From projectile vomiting all over the car and you, to constant whinging and whining, there will be a little something for everyone.
Hulugan Falls is by far our favourite waterfall in Laguna. The drive is a little long so leave early. Pack a picnic, your swimmers and be prepared for a short but reasonably challenging hike, and get down there. The kids loved it, managed the rocky climb with ease and now they keep asking to go back. You get to drink cool clean water straight off the mountain! Seriously why are you waiting?
I was going to name this post When Holidays Go Wrong part 2, but that isn’t entirely fair, it only sucked 3/4 of the time. You see, I got sick…really sick right before we left for the airport to visit Sicogon Island. Never Ever do I want to travel sick again…
Tinipak River is a really beautiful location to take a picnic and spend the day. It is also a really good destination if you have visiting friends or relatives. If you are after something a bit more challenging, the check out Mount Daraitan. This area showcases some of the Philippines natural beauty.
Tablas Island is the largest island in the province of Romblon here in the Philippines, and another ‘waiting to be discovered’ jewel in this area. What you will find when you get there are white sand beaches with crystal clear turquoise waters. It is gorgeous.
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