🏛️ 5-Day Vigan Backpacking Itinerary: The Ultimate Travel Guide (2025)

If you’re dreaming of walking down cobblestone streets lined with ancestral houses, eating authentic empanada, and immersing yourself in rich Ilocano culture — Vigan City should be your next backpacking destination.

As a traveler who just spent 5 unforgettable days backpacking in Vigan, I can say it’s a city that perfectly balances heritage, food, and adventure. Whether you’re a history lover, a photographer, or a budget explorer, this Vigan travel guide has everything you need.

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📍 Day 1: Arrival in Vigan – Heritage Walk at Calle Crisologo

I arrived in Vigan City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, early in the morning after an 8-hour bus ride from Manila. The moment I stepped on Calle Crisologo, I felt like I was transported back to the Spanish colonial era.

🗺️ What to do on your first day:

• Stroll along Calle Crisologo, famous for its cobblestone streets and well-preserved ancestral houses.

• Visit Syquia Mansion and Crisologo Museum for a glimpse of Vigan’s history.

• Stop by Plaza Burgos and Plaza Salcedo for local food stalls and people-watching.

🍽️ Where to eat: Try Irene’s Vigan Empanada, Café Leona, or Casa Rica.
💡 Travel tip: Visit at night when the street lights give Calle Crisologo a romantic glow — perfect for photos!

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🐴 Day 2: Explore Vigan’s Cultural and Historical Landmarks

On my second day, I went beyond the famous street and discovered more of what makes Vigan so special.

🏰 Must-visit Vigan attractions:

• Bantay Church and Bell Tower – climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.

• Vigan Cathedral (St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral) – one of the oldest churches in Ilocos Sur.

• Hidden Garden Vigan – a peaceful tropical garden with a café and pottery area.

• Pagburnayan Jar Factory – try your hand at making traditional clay pots!

🍴 Where to eat lunch: Hidden Garden Café serves Ilocano favorites like bagnet, longganisa, and pinakbet.
💬 Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get better photos.

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🛶 Day 3: Eco and River Adventure in Vigan

After two days of heritage and history, I was ready for something different — nature!

🌿 Activities for day 3:

• Take the Mestizo River Cruise, where a local guide narrates the history of Vigan’s trade past.

• Explore Mira Hills Eco Park, a hidden gem offering a short trek, swimming pool, and zipline.

• End the day with a walk along the Vigan River Bridge — sunset views are amazing!

🎒 Backpacker Tip: Most of these spots are close to the city center. You can rent a bicycle or take a tricycle for ₱10–₱20 per ride.

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🍽️ Day 4: Food Crawl and Local Life

You can’t truly experience Vigan without diving into its food scene! Day 4 was all about Ilocano cuisine and local delicacies.

🍴 Must-try Vigan foods:

• Vigan Empanada – crispy shell with longganisa, egg, and green papaya.

• Bagnet – deep-fried crispy pork belly, best paired with kBL (kamatis, bagoong, lasona).

• Longganisa Vigan – garlicky local sausage.

• Sinanglao – a hearty beef soup for breakfast.

🛍️ Local souvenirs to buy:

• Burnay jars, Abel Iloco blankets, and native snacks like chichacorn.

💡 Foodie tip: Join the Vigan food tour or create your own DIY crawl around Plaza Burgos and Calle Crisologo.

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🌅 Day 5: Final Day – Souvenirs, Street Strolls, and Reflection

On my last day, I woke up early to soak in the morning atmosphere of the Vigan Heritage Village one last time. I took a kalesa ride, visited small souvenir shops, and had my final cup of barako coffee by the plaza.

Before heading back to Manila, I made a quick stop at the Ilocos Sur Provincial Capitol for some last photos — the architecture is stunning!

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💸 Backpacker’s Budget Breakdown

Category	Estimated Cost (₱)	Notes
Bus (Manila–Vigan–Manila)	1,000–1,200	One-way via Partas or Dominion bus
Accommodation	1,500–2,000	For 4 nights in a budget hostel or guesthouse
Food	1,200–1,500	Local eateries and street food
Entrance fees & tours	500–800	Museums, river cruise, eco park
Transportation	300–500	Tricycle and kalesa rides
Total Estimated Budget	₱4,500–₱6,000	Ideal for solo backpackers

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🧭 Quick Travel Tips for Vigan Backpackers

Keywords: Vigan travel tips, Ilocos Sur travel guide, backpacking Vigan

• 🕰️ Best time to visit: November to May (dry season)

• 🚌 How to get there: Partas Bus or Viron Transit from Cubao, Pasay, or Sampaloc

• 💰 ATMs: Available around Plaza Burgos

• 📶 Wi-Fi: Available in most hostels and cafés

• 📸 Best photo spots: Calle Crisologo at night, Bantay Bell Tower, and Plaza Salcedo fountain

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🌟 Final Thoughts

Backpacking through Vigan City is like stepping into a living museum — but with delicious food, friendly locals, and endless photo opportunities. It’s the kind of place where history meets heart, and every street corner tells a story.

Whether you’re on a solo backpacking trip or a budget-friendly getaway, Vigan will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the Philippine heritage.

🇻🇳 7 Days in Vietnam: A Complete Travel Guide from South to North (2025)

 

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Vietnam — from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the ancient charm of Hanoi and the magical Ha Long Bay — a 7-day trip from South to North is the perfect adventure.

I just wrapped up my week-long backpacking journey across this beautiful country, and it was a whirlwind of street food, motorbikes, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re planning your first Vietnam trip or updating your Vietnam itinerary for 2025, this blog has everything you need.

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🗺️ 7-Day Vietnam Itinerary Overview

Here’s a quick look at my 7-day journey:

Day	Destination	Highlight
1	Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)	War Remnants Museum & Ben Thanh Market
2	Mekong Delta	River cruise & floating market
3	Da Nang	Beach vibes & Dragon Bridge
4	Hoi An	Lanterns & Old Town charm
5	Hue	Imperial City & ancient tombs
6	Hanoi	Old Quarter & street food tour
7	Ha Long Bay	Cruise through limestone islands

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🏙️ Day 1: Exploring Ho Chi Minh City

I started my trip in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) — Vietnam’s energetic commercial hub. The chaos of motorbikes, street vendors, and neon lights was both overwhelming and exciting.

📍 Top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Visit the War Remnants Museum for a moving look at Vietnam’s history.

• Explore Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office.

• Shop at Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and local eats.

• Try Vietnamese coffee (Cà phê sữa đá) and pho at street stalls.

🍜 Tip: Don’t miss the Bui Vien Walking Street at night for lively bars and backpacker energy!

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🚤 Day 2: Day Trip to the Mekong Delta

A 2-hour ride from Saigon brought me to the Mekong Delta, known for its lush waterways and floating markets.

🌿 What to expect:

• Cruise along the river and visit local villages.

• See how coconut candy and rice paper are made.

• Taste tropical fruits and listen to traditional Vietnamese music.

The peaceful vibe here was a great break from the busy city.

💡 Pro Tip: Book a Mekong Delta day tour online or through your hostel for around ₱1,500–₱2,000 ($25–$35).

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🌊 Day 3: Fly to Da Nang – Beaches and Bridges

A short flight brought me to Da Nang, a modern coastal city in Central Vietnam.

🏖️ Must-visit places in Da Nang:

• My Khe Beach – clean and perfect for sunrise walks.

• Marble Mountains – climb for panoramic views and temples in caves.

• Dragon Bridge – a fire-breathing bridge that lights up on weekends.

🍤 Food to try: Mi Quang (turmeric noodles with pork and shrimp).

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🏮 Day 4: The Magical Hoi An Ancient Town

Just 45 minutes from Da Nang, I reached Hoi An, my favorite stop of the trip. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its lantern-lit streets, riverside cafés, and tailor shops.

🌸 Top things to do in Hoi An:

• Wander the Old Town at night — it’s magical when the lanterns glow.

• Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky House.

• Take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River at sunset.

• Get a custom-made outfit at one of the local tailors.

🥢 Don’t miss: Try Cao Lau, Hoi An’s signature noodle dish, and a glass of Vietnamese iced coffee by the river.

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🏯 Day 5: Hue – Vietnam’s Imperial City

Next stop: Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. This city is rich in history, culture, and royal architecture.

🏰 Things to do in Hue:

• Explore the Imperial Citadel (a UNESCO site).

• Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and Emperor Tu Duc’s Tomb.

• Take a Perfume River cruise for a relaxing afternoon.

✨ Tip: Rent a motorbike or hire a driver to visit all the sites in one day.

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🏮 Day 6: Hanoi – The Heart of the North

Flying from Hue to Hanoi took just an hour. The capital of Vietnam has a different vibe — more traditional, artistic, and laid-back.

📍 Must-see places in Hanoi:

• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

• Hanoi Old Quarter – shop, eat, and get lost in its narrow alleys.

• Train Street – where trains pass inches from local cafés!

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature

🍢 Must-try street foods:

• Pho Bo (beef noodle soup)

• Bun Cha (grilled pork noodles)

• Egg coffee (Hanoi’s specialty!)

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🛥️ Day 7: Ha Long Bay – The Grand Finale

For my final day, I joined a Ha Long Bay day cruise, about 3 hours from Hanoi. The view was surreal — emerald waters and towering limestone islands as far as the eye could see.

🗻 What to do in Ha Long Bay:

• Join a boat or overnight cruise (1-day or 2D1N).

• Go kayaking or explore limestone caves.

• Relax on deck and watch the sunset over the bay.

🌅 It was the perfect way to end my 7-day Vietnam adventure.

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💸 Vietnam Travel Budget (2025)

Category	Estimated Cost (₱)	Notes
Flights (domestic)	4,000–6,000	2 short flights (HCMC → Da Nang, Hue → Hanoi)
Accommodation	5,000–7,000	Budget hostels/guesthouses
Food	3,000	Street food & local restaurants
Transport	1,500	Taxis, buses, rentals
Tours (Mekong, Ha Long)	5,000	Including entrance fees
Total Budget:	₱15,000–₱20,000 ($250–$350)	Great for backpackers!

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🧭 Vietnam Travel Tips for First-Timers

• 📆 Best time to visit: November–April (dry season, cooler weather).

• 💵 Currency: Vietnamese Dong (₫); 1 USD ≈ 25,000 VND.

• 📱 Connectivity: Get a local SIM card for ₱300–₱500.

• 🛵 Transport: Use Grab for easy rides or rent a scooter.

• 🍜 Street food: Always eat where locals eat — it’s fresher and cheaper.

• 🧳 Visa: Many nationalities can apply for e-visa online before arrival.

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🌄 Final Thoughts

Traveling across Vietnam from South to North in just 7 days was an incredible journey — every city had its own story, flavor, and rhythm. From Saigon’s street energy to Hoi An’s lantern-lit beauty and Hanoi’s nostalgic charm, Vietnam is a country that stays with you long after you leave.

If you’re looking for a Vietnam itinerary for one week, this route is perfect — a little fast-paced, but filled with unforgettable moments. 🌏

🌲 My First Time in Baguio City: A Traveler’s Journal & Complete Guide (2025)

 

Known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” Baguio City has always been on my travel bucket list — pine trees, cool weather, cozy cafés, and breathtaking mountain views. This year, I finally made it happen!

As a first-time traveler, I wanted to experience everything Baguio has to offer — from walking along Session Road to exploring hidden art spaces and trying local food. Whether you’re planning your first Baguio trip or looking for an updated Baguio travel guide, this journal will help you plan your own unforgettable mountain getaway.

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🏔️ Day 1: Arrival in the City of Pines

After a 5-hour bus ride from Manila via Victory Liner, I finally reached Baguio City. The crisp mountain air instantly felt refreshing — a welcome break from the lowland heat.

🚌 How to get there:

• From Manila: Take Victory Liner or Genesis JoyBus to Baguio (₱600–₱900 one-way).

• Travel time: 4–6 hours depending on traffic.

• Best time to arrive: Early morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

I checked into a cozy budget inn near Session Road, dropped my bag, and went straight to Burnham Park — the heart of the city. I rented a boat, had taho by the lake, and people-watched as locals biked and jogged around.

🌿 Highlight: Feeling the cool breeze while paddling across Burnham Lake — a classic Baguio moment.

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🌸 Day 2: Parks, Pines, and Panoramic Views

My second day was all about exploring Baguio’s iconic attractions.

📍 Top Baguio tourist spots to visit:

• Mines View Park – panoramic mountain views and souvenir shopping.

• The Mansion – the official summer residence of the Philippine President.

• Wright Park – known for its scenic horse-riding area and reflection pool.

• Botanical Garden – filled with pine trees, flowers, and local art stalls.

📸 Travel tip: Go early morning for fewer people and softer lighting for photos.

I ended the day with a cup of hot chocolate at Choco-late de Batirol, located inside Camp John Hay — a must-visit café surrounded by pine trees.

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☕ Day 3: Cafés, Art, and Hidden Gems

If you love art, coffee, and culture, Baguio won’t disappoint.

🎨 Morning:

• Head to BenCab Museum, a few minutes outside the city. It’s home to contemporary Filipino art and scenic mountain views.

• Stop by Tam-awan Village, a reconstructed Cordilleran village where you can see traditional huts and local art exhibits.

☕ Afternoon:

• Café-hop around Session Road or Camp John Hay.

  • Try Arca’s Yard for banana cake and mountain views.

  • Café by the Ruins for a rustic vibe and classic Baguio comfort food.

🌧️ Tip: Always bring a jacket or umbrella — Baguio’s weather can switch from sunny to misty in minutes.

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🛍️ Day 4: Souvenir Hunting and Local Markets

No trip to Baguio is complete without souvenir shopping!

🛍️ Best places to buy pasalubong:

• Good Shepherd Convent – famous for ube jam, strawberry jam, and peanut brittle.

• Baguio Night Market (Harrison Road) – thrift finds, street food, and local crafts.

• Session Road – cafés, bookstores, and art shops for unique finds.

🍓 I also dropped by La Trinidad Strawberry Farm (20 minutes away) to pick fresh strawberries — a must for every first-timer!

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🌄 Day 5: Chill Morning and Farewell Baguio

On my last day, I woke up early to enjoy sunrise at Mirador Hill, then had breakfast at Vizco’s Restaurant, famous for its strawberry shortcake.

Before heading back to Manila, I took one last stroll along Session Road, savoring the aroma of brewed coffee and fresh pine air. Leaving Baguio felt bittersweet — it’s one of those cities that makes you want to stay longer.

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💸 Baguio Budget Breakdown (2025 Update)

Category	Estimated Cost (₱)	Notes
Bus fare (round trip)	1,200	Victory Liner or JoyBus
Accommodation (4 nights)	2,000–3,000	Budget inn or hostel
Food	1,500	Local eateries and cafés
Transportation	300–500	Taxi or jeepney
Entrance fees & activities	400–600	Museums, parks, eco sites
Souvenirs	500–800	Pasalubong and thrift finds
Total Budget	₱5,900–₱7,000	Perfect for solo backpackers!

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🧭 Travel Tips for First-Time Baguio Visitors

• 🕰️ Best time to visit: November to May (cool and dry season).

• 🧥 What to wear: Light jackets, comfy shoes, and layers for cold nights.

• ☕ Try local coffee: Kape Umali, Arca’s Yard, Patch Café.

• 🚕 Getting around: Grab, taxis, or jeepneys are affordable and accessible.

• 📸 Instagram spots: Burnham Park boats, Mines View deck, BenCab Museum stairs, Mirador Hill viewpoint.

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🌲 Final Thoughts

My first Baguio trip was everything I imagined — peaceful mornings, breathtaking sceneries, and the perfect blend of culture and comfort. It’s a city that makes you slow down, breathe fresh pine air, and appreciate simple joys.

If you’re planning your first time in Baguio City, pack your jacket, bring your curiosity, and get ready to fall in love with the City of Pines — one breathtaking sunrise at a time. 🌄

Catanduanes: Travel in Style

How to Get there:

Ø  By Air

Ø  By Water

Playlist:

Ø  Visit Catanduanes Town Proper*

Ø  Side trip to the Bato Church*

Ø  San Andres

Where to Stay:

Ø  Catanduanes State University dorm

Ø  Twin Rock Beach Resort

Ø  Puraran Beach Resort

This is the second time I visited Catanduanes after leaving the company that led me here. Unlike the first time where I stayed in the university dorm, this time I’m traveling in class just because I have a foreigner friend to pick up the bills. This time, I will be housed in one of the best resorts in Catanduanes, The Twin Rock Resort, for 3 days and 2 nights.

I have a lot of fond moments here, specifically enjoying the first direct selling I’ve been into after graduating in college, like meeting and having good breakfast with the senator Kit Tatad in his hometown residence and achieving my sales quota which earned me a 3D2N trip to Boracay Island – my first! That’s atop my daily awe to the natural beauty and hospitality of Catanduanons. I’ve made a lot of friends here to whom I’ve learned to cook and eat Carabao innards as substitute to meat in barbecue and ox tripe in Kare-Kare.

My memories of Catanduanes’ port is still intact, even that of San Andres. Both ports have changed slightly from 2001, when I first set foot on the soils of the island to work. At least now, there are a number of establishments around the ports, including the spacious terminal and outpost. The number of jeepneys, tricycles, and vans have drastically increased, too which made the ride to our hotel a lot easier and faster. The highway and streets are also better these days, there are less scouring and all those things that make the ride to wherever you wanna go in the island bumpy and generally uncomfortable. But those wouldn’t even be a problem because we have arranged a ‘pickup’ from our hotel - traveling in class, you know *wink*.

The crews who picked us up were nice and polite, giving us some insights of the island and the hotel. They were also full of tact, providing us more information to their additional services, like arranged tours around the island, the city, and favorite tourist’s spots. The niceties continued throughout the ride and upon arrival in the hotel. It was the room assignment that spoiled our trip. Our room was supposed to be a suite – the top of its class – but the air conditioning was not working properly which made the room warmer than outside. Through our entire stay, we had to open the door and windows to let in sea breeze in our suite.

Our accommodation comes with breakfast, and the mezzanine was situated on a beautifully designed cottage in front of the ocean. It was really nice and the food was great. The food in the resort restaurant was kinda pricey but still reasonable enough given the status of a luxury beach resort. Besides, they serve in nice glass and silverware so who’s complaining? It was our lunch that has taken me aback a little. One of our orders were beef steak and while we appreciate the quality of appearance and quantity of the food serving, everything was buttery and lemony.

🏝️ 5-Day Ilocos Backpacking Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide to Ilocos Norte & Sur (2025)

 

If you’re craving a mix of heritage, adventure, beaches, and food, then backpacking in Ilocos should be at the top of your travel list. After spending 5 unforgettable days exploring Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur, I can confidently say it’s one of the most diverse destinations in the Philippines — rich in culture, nature, and history.

This 5-day Ilocos itinerary covers everything from Vigan’s Spanish colonial charm to Pagudpud’s white sand beaches, Laoag’s sand dunes, and Paoay’s iconic landmarks.

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📍 Day 1: Arrival in Vigan – Heritage Walk and Local Eats

Start your Ilocos adventure in Vigan City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its cobblestone streets and ancestral houses.

• What to do:

  • Take a morning stroll along Calle Crisologo.

  • Visit Syquia Mansion and Crisologo Museum to learn about Ilocano history.

  • Try empanada, longganisa, and bagnet at Café Leona or Irene’s Vigan Empanada.

• Where to stay: Budget travelers can check out Cordillera Inn or Casa Teofila Lodge — both affordable and near the town center.

🕯️ Tip: Catch the dancing fountain show at Plaza Salcedo at night!

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🌊 Day 2: Laoag City Tour – Culture and Adventure

Travel north to Laoag, the capital of Ilocos Norte (2 hours from Vigan).

• Top attractions:

  • St. William’s Cathedral and the Sinking Bell Tower

  • La Paz Sand Dunes for a thrilling 4x4 ride and sandboarding

  • Museo Ilocos Norte for local crafts and history

• Where to eat: Try Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant for authentic Ilocano cuisine.

💡 Pro Tip: Time your sand dunes adventure at sunset for the best photos!

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🏯 Day 3: Paoay and Batac – Heritage and History

Day 3 is all about Ilocano heritage and national history.

• Must-see spots:

  • Paoay Church (San Agustin Church) – a UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Malacañang of the North – former presidential residence turned museum

  • Marcos Museum and Mausoleum in Batac

  • Paoay Lake – perfect for a quiet afternoon walk

• Food to try: Pinakbet pizza and bagnet pasta at Herencia Café, right across Paoay Church.

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🌅 Day 4: Pagudpud – The Northern Paradise

Welcome to Pagudpud, the “Boracay of the North.” Expect turquoise waters, scenic coastal views, and relaxing beach vibes.

• Top places to visit:

  • Saud Beach – ideal for swimming and sunsets

  • Blue Lagoon – famous for its powdery white sand

  • Bantay Abot Cave, Timmangtang Rock, and Kabigan Falls

  • Patapat Viaduct – the iconic coastal bridge connecting Ilocos to Cagayan

• Where to stay: Budget options include Casa Consuelo and Kingfisher Resort (great for surfers).

🏄 Don’t miss: Try the zipline over Blue Lagoon for an epic view!

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🌅 Day 5: Cape Bojeador & Windmills – Farewell Ilocos

Before heading home, explore Bangui and Burgos — the wind power capital of the Philippines.

• Attractions:

  • Bangui Windmills – rows of majestic turbines by the sea

  • Cape Bojeador Lighthouse – historic Spanish lighthouse with panoramic views

  • Kapurpurawan Rock Formation – a natural white limestone wonder

• Snap your last photos here — it’s the perfect ending to your Ilocos backpacking adventure.

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🧭 Travel Tips for Backpacking Ilocos

• 🚌 Getting there: Take a bus from Manila to Vigan or Laoag (8–10 hours).

• 💸 Budget: ₱6,000–₱9,000 for 5 days (food, transport, and accommodation).

• 📱 Connectivity: Most areas have good mobile signal and Wi-Fi.

• 🧳 Best time to visit: November to May for sunny weather.

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✨ Final Thoughts

Backpacking through Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur is an adventure that perfectly blends culture, history, and nature. Whether you’re walking through Vigan’s old streets, racing across Laoag’s sand dunes, or chilling at Pagudpud’s beaches, Ilocos truly delivers a full travel experience.

If you’re planning your next Philippine backpacking trip, this Ilocos travel itinerary should be on your bucket list.

Rodeo Masbate Has To Wait Another Year

Today is supposed to be a wonderful day out in the sea for me. I am scheduled to visit Masbate once more after, what, two decades? That last time was a sad memory, attending a wake of a very close friend and godmother in confession. This time was all fun supposedly, visiting in time for the festive Masbateno Rodeo, but this pandemic that we are all experiencing has stripped not only me but everyone around the world the freedom to roam around. Now, I'm sitting in front of my computer and trying to compose a blog post.

So, what is this festival all about and why am I so bummed for not being able to attend. Well, this Rodeo is a yearly festivity in the province of Masbate. I can go anytime, alright, but the proximity of the island has always become a hindrance.

There is a lot to see in this year's Rodeo, being a month-long celebration. I was hoping to see colorful bands in competition on top of the much-awaited bull and cowboy duels. I love bands. I love horses. I'm not much of a fan of bulls, though. They scare me at times, which is probably the reason I don't fancy wearing anything red. Rumors have it that bulls are into red anything, so I keep my distance from that.

I also envisioned balloons, different colors and sizes -- including iconic and 3D ones. I hoped to see friendly faces, but the smiles of the locals would be more than enough. I wanted to meet people, immerse myself in the culture, and just live like the locals. Instead, I'm here at my writing nook and distancing myself from everyone. This COVID-19 is truly cruel.

I am so excited to live in a resort home, which I rented in advance for this special event. I am so into the thought of living the island feel that I can taste the salt on my lips and the sea breeze slapping my cheeks. I can't stop thinking about the delicious and fresh seafood that I should've been eating at this very time. Instead, I am staring at an empty dining table as I wait for the marble potatoes to get cooked. I'd probably make a corn soup to match it. How sad is that? Oh, COVID-19 you are so bad in all aspects.

Ok, so I'll park my notes here and go cook my food. The thought of seafoods set on the beach is making my tummy long for a hot meal right now.

Remembering the Best of Catanduanes

A friend of mine is so allured with Catanduanes Island and knowing that I have a bit of a knack for traveling, she asked if I knew of any attractions in it. I wished she could’ve been more specific but vague questions like that take me back to the years I had spent in the island – the days when everything seems as easy as the waves touching the old docks with that familiar ocean splash.

I did spend about a couple of years in Catanduanes somewhere from 2000 to 2001 when I joined a company called Health Network Incorporated. Our team was sent to the island to embark on the fresh ground for the marketing purposes of our reflexology machines to doctors and locals. There were four of us in the team, and we found a staff house just a few meters away from the Pacific Ocean on the left and equidistant to the right is the Catanduanes Town Market. There, a number of tricycles and jeeps can take you anywhere you wanna go on the island.

I can vividly remember the day I set my foot on the old pier of Catanduanes. It was lunchtime – because there are only two travel slots to choose from, one in the morning with ETA of lunchtime and one in the afternoon with ETA at early dinner time. Our first lunch was spent in one of the small stalls in the market, which is about 5 minutes ride from the pier. The food was yum, although most are cooked from carabao meat because that seems to be the island’s main meat source. Pork is rare and is usually imported from the ‘mainland’ which is the third district of Albay, hence its high cost.

Our work is to ‘zone’ our area, thereby allowing us to go from one place to the other. Young and energetic that we all are, we would always inject a side trip to some discovery-worthy places as recommended by the locals whom we get in contact with. Our very first few trips were spent in the city proper, learning where the important go-to places on the island which are almost city-centric. Catanduanes has a charming beauty with the combination of abundant nature and rich funds as exhibited by the huge government and church edifices. Everything seems to be huge in here but the malls which remain to be a one-floor type of establishments.

There are also important establishments we have visited like the Catanduanes Fortune, Catanduanes Hemp, Catanduanes Inn, and the Catanduanes Chicken House which transforms into the only disco house in the island at night. These are establishments are the longest in the trade and are owned by the richest locals on the island.

In our daily routes, we have seen the Maribina Falls, the Luyang Cave, the pinkish sand of Armenia Beach, and the Bato Church. Of course, we wouldn’t forget about the black sand on the shores of the town where we spent our breaks and weekends – swimming, playing, bickering, and/or shell picking.

At the time, there are just a few accommodations in the island. Among the most popular to salespeople are Marems, Catanduanes Inn, and Twin Rock.

There are no food chains in the island but there are few local food stops like the Chicken House.

Over the course of our stay in Catanduanes, I fell in love with its beauty and can say that it is a home far away from home.