I stepped out of bed early to savor the cool breeze and the fresh morning scent of Caramoan. There was no sunshine photo because the sky was gloomy. A bit dismayed, I took a quiet walk on the peaceful road, amused to see early riser locals and pleased to smell the sweet wafting fragrance of flowers. Oh I just can’t sustain my excitement and happiness looking at the pleasing sights.
Good morning lovely Caramoan!
the long stretch of creamy white sand of Sabitang Laya
Part of our Caramoan tour with my former office mates is to visit Albay’s primary tourist attractions with Cagsawa Ruins topping the list. This sojourn is for Sir Alex and Alma who will capture memories as they will set foot in my beloved hometown for the first time. I was a tour guide on this exciting getaway.
seize the moment
Potipot Island is a small 8-hectare island located near the shore of Barangay Uacon in Candelaria, Zambales. What attracts travelers here are its calm clear water, soft creamy sand, solitude, the sunset, and proximity from the mainland.
Fort Santiago or Moog ng Santiago (Fuerza de Santiago in Spanish) is the most important historical site in Manila which served as a defense fortress during Spanish Colonial Period and World War II. This is part of Intramuros (within the walls) which was referred to as the walled city of Manila.
entrance to the fort
My hubby and I enjoyed so much in our one-day Guimaras tour, with Flor, Vic, and Mat-mat. The minute the boat moved swiftly away from the island, I can’t help to look back and be thankful that we explored another beautiful place.
I can’t wait to explore more of Iloilo. My excitement on my second day in the city was still soaring high. While walking away from the wharf along Ortiz Street, Flor halted her steps when we were in front of a well-preserved and beautiful mansion. She told us it was owned by the Ledesma’s. The structure’s design and color were compelling. The white eagles on every post looked like guards protecting the entire house. There were other mansions in the province owned by the Lopezes, Jalandonis, Coseteng, and Montinolas. It’s good that we unexpectedly saw one.
the Ledesma Mansion – one of the popular mansions in Iloilo
In going to Guimaras, what is commonly asked for a pasalubong is their sweet mangoes which are being exported worldwide. I’ve discovered that this island has something more to offer. Their stunning beaches, caves, yummy fresh sea-foods, and verdant landscape made me say, “this is a holiday!”
sweet mangoes of Guimaras
Iloilo is located in the Western Visayas Province. Its capital is Iloilo City. It is known for its century-old churches, yummy bowl of Lapaz Batchoy and Pansit Molo, Dinagyang Festival, and their soft-sweet tone Ilonggo dialect.
getting ready for landing at Iloilo International Airport
You’ll be surprised not seeing anymore the signage Boracay de Cavite Beach Resort because it is now Katungkulan Beach Resort. It is located in General Lim Marine Base in Calumpang, Sapang 1, Ternate, Cavite. A three-hour drive from Manila passing Cavitex (Cavite Express).
the signage
Mayon Skyline (former Mayon Rest House) was our last stop today coming from an overnight stay in Gubat, Sorsogon down to Cagsawa Ruins in Daraga, Albay. I was so delighted to see my family especially first-timers Noel and Pol enjoying every minute of our vacation in our hometown in Albay and in our neighboring region.
The majestic Mayon Volcano
After a two-day adventure in our hometown in Albay, we’re off to Sorsogon, which is located at the southernmost part of Luzon. We’ve been to different places but we never chance to visit our neighboring province. Lately, I had this ardent desire to explore Sorsogon and finally, it was set this Lenten Holiday. We will visit Bulusan Lake in Bulusan and we will stay overnight at Rizal Beach in Gubat for water fun.
Welcome to Sorsogon, “The Land of the Whale Sharks!”
