SaltyBug’s Guide to Siquijor

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.

Kawa Baths at El Patio Razon, Tanay

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.

Olanguan Falls, Palawan

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.

Modessa Island, Palawan

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.

Hulugan Falls, Laguna

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?

Sicogon Island

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…

Tablas Island

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.

Ilocos Norte: Kabigan Falls

Kabigan Falls are absolutely gorgeous. The walk to get there is easy and beautiful as you wander through the forest listening to the sounds of mountain rivers, and snack on delicious treats along the way.

Ilocos Norte: Pagudpud

The last two days of our road trip were spent driving around Pagudpud, exploring and discovering the most beautiful coastline and mountain regions. This place is heaven on earth.

Ilocos Norte: Paoay and Pagudpud

Day three was driving up the coast to Pagudpud. On the way we checked out the incredible Badoc Island, stopped at Paoay Church to admire the ancient architecture then made it to our resort in Pagudpud in time for a swim and gin and tonic on the beach, watching the sunset.