Suasana tengah malam di Pelabuhan Ketapang, Banyuwangi.

Melihat kapal dan berada di pelabuhan seperti bernostalgia 4 tahun yang lalu. Aroma laut dan lambaian lembut angin laut seperti menyapaku kembali. Tidak ada yang berubah, kecuali tempat kini ku berada. Dari sinilah kumulai perjalananku sendirian.

Pelabuhan Ketapang, Banyuwangi.

190619.🛳

Staying Safe When Travelling Alone

Traveling alone is a major step to take when you’re usually surrounded by a large group of friends and relatives. You may feel anxious just thinking about it, and attempting to plan ahead for such a vacation may make you want to cancel it totally! Traveling alone, on the other hand, is a terrific experience to have under your belt if you’re someone who loves to pursue their wanderlust. And if…

#2 Itinerary Solo Trip

by pinterest

Jumat, 10 November 2017, adalah salah satu hari terindah dalam hidupku. Aku yang “katanya” anak manja ini, yang nggak pernah jauh dari orang tua, yang selalu jadi “anak kecil”nya Ibu, akhirnya memberanikan diri berpergian “seorang diri” ke luar negeri.

Kalau sebagian dari kalian mungkin bertanya, apa yang pertama kali harus dipersiapkan sebelum memulai perjalanan solo, maka jawaban…

We chose to fly into Varadero because most low cost airlines will fly here to cater to those heading to resorts so you could get cheap flights into here. Even if you aren’t staying in Varadero, flying here still leaves the rest of the country accessible by bus or taxi. Our first stop was Havana so we had two options to get there: we could wait to catch the Viazul bus at 6 PM which only cost 10…

Propped with my camera, backpack, and phone on a selfie stick, I took as many photos as I could of this historical landmark. I grew up just reading and seeing it on textbooks but it is a completely different experience to see it and be in it in real life. I did not escape the eyes of peddlers with my tourist get-up. It was not long before I was offered different items- necklaces, pearls, keychains, and colored candles.

The cross.

Candle dancer and seller

The historic Magellan’s Cross.

Part of my local traveling advocacy is to help the local industry. So, without compromising my allotted budget for souvenirs, I bought some keychains, a pearl necklace, and my mom’s request- a Sto Nino item. A woman offered me a set of colored candles and said that she will dance and pray for me at the church after purchase. I am no Christian but I still gave in to the offer. It felt good at the time. I then grabbed this opportunity to admire Magellan’s Cross.

Soon after, I visited Basilica Minore del Sto Nino which was just next to Magellan’s Cross. It was a Tuesday yet still crowded with locals and tourists alike. Much to my surprise, there was also a mass going on. After giving some prayers and asking for guidance for this trip, I explored the old corridors of the church. It was teeming with stories dating back to the 1700s. Walking through it was a surreal experience.

Basilica Minore de Sto Nino

Basilica de Sto Nino Cebu City

These historic walls.

Lagoon at the Church

Basilica de Sto Nino Cebu City

Basilica de Sto Nino Cebu City

People praying and lighting candles at the Basilica de Sto Nino Cebu City

Following my spiritual tour of Cebu City, I headed off to Carcar. Carcar City is 40kms from Cebu City and is accessible by bus. So, I took a non-airconditioned bus from the Cebu South Bus Terminal. It was almost lunch time when the bus took off and knowing that the travel time would be around 40mins, I started worrying that there would no longer be lechon at the Carcar Public Market.

It was past one when I reached my destination and much to my surprise, lechon are served all day long! The server even told me that I can come in anytime to try their best-sellers. Disclaimer, though: these lechon are served in a public market. Very much unlike the ones found in enclosed restaurants. But hey, there’s no need to worry as the area is kept clean, or at least looks like it. Challenging the cowboy with a huge hunger that I am, I ordered quarter of a kilo and a few grams of fried isaw (intestine and innards).

Heaven is a place on earth. 🐖 #TheLittleBingerGoes2K17 #instafood #foodph #FoodPhotography #Cebu #Travel #philippines

A post shared by Dale (@allanplusdale) on Mar 2, 2017 at 1:23am PST

Here’s a tip, you can buy lechon from the vendors and eat it at the carinderias on the side. They will not charge you for the service, all you have to do is to order something from them. I had 3 puso, a bottle of softdrinks, and of course, FRESH lato. Yes, Cebu easily earned a spot in my heart for its fresh lato. And damn, Carcar lechon are the bomb! Tasty and juicy, I am craving for it as I am typing this. After pigging out, I roamed around the public market to fulfill my dad’s request- different types of

After pigging out, I roamed around the public market to fulfill my dad’s request- different types of daing or dried seafood. Luckily, it was easy to find as the smell took me to it. There is a designated area in the market for these goods. And travelers need not to worry as they will pack the goods in a sealed plastic bag for customers who will be traveling by plane. I then concluded my Carcar City experience by securing pasalubongs such as bocarillo (sweet young coconut chips), rosquillos, rice crispies, and peanut bars.

I was just in time for dinner when I returned to Cebu City. But following my pig-out session at Carcar, I am nowhere near hunger yet. So, I explored Fort San Pedro which is at the far end of the city. Think of it as Cebu City’s Intramuros. Much like Manila’s Intramuros, it also played a big role in shaping up the country’s history. And with that in mind, I gasped in every bit of history that I could get from this historical landmark. This triangular fortress was a good spot to stay in at sunset because visitors can get both the view of the sea and the park next to it.

The park outside Fort San Pedro

Fort San Pedro

Fort San Pedro

Artworks diplayed at Fort San Pedro

Fort San Pedro

Cebu City

Fort San Pedro

Fort San Pedro at night

Fort San Pedro

After about an hour of enjoying its heritage and taking photos, I returned to the hotel. Realizing that I still have time to spare, I dropped by a Shamrock branch at Fuente Osmena Circle. As expected, it was packed even on a weekday. I grabbed the usual pasalubongs except for dried mangoes which were unluckily out of stock at the time. It was not long before I returned to the hotel, do the usual check-out routine and grabbed a ride to Mactan International Airport. My flight back to Manila is at 2 AM.

I may have a quick stay in Cebu City but I have fallen in love with the place. It is a stone’s throw away from the bustle of Manila but there is something about its simplicity that caught my heart. Without sounding too melodramatic about it but whenever I travel, I indulge myself in a place’s culture and experience as much as the locals do. Before the plane departed Mactan, I promised myself that I will return to this lovely place and explore its beach resorts.

That’s all for now, Cebu City!

Til next time, Cebu City!

Six days.

Three provinces.

One amazing backpacking story.

When I filed this leave, I don’t have any idea on where to go. I just think I needed a summer break.

Two weeks prior to the 6-day adventure, I still have no plans at all.

Then I was down to 1 week. I tried to come up with an itinerary. But the ridiculously hot weather is killing me. You just want to jump to the beach.

Then I was down to 2 days. I open my laptop and began searching.

From the previous travels I had for the past couple of months, I spent it on the mountains. I was always drawn to my first love.

I thought of giving the waters a second chance.

It is a known fact that I am more of a mountain rat rather than a beach bum.

The cordilleras give me a sense of peace and rush at the same time.

Soon after I decided to be a beach baby for the next 6 days.

-          Northern Philippines.

I feel home when I’m in the north. Aside from that my roots trace back in this place, this is known for mountainous terrains.

First stop: San Juan, La Union. This place is popular as the Surfing Capital of the Northern Philippines. It bounded on the west by the South China Sea. The reason perhaps of the strong waves apt for surfing.

(image from Wikipedia)

I tried to look for a cheap home stay or hotel near the surf town. I found a few but upon looking further, I came across of this beach artist hostel called Flotsam Jetsam. I checked their website, Facebook and Instagram accounts. I knew this has to be my place and so I made the reservation.

Flotsam and Jetsam hostel is quite isolated which I personally like. The place is artsy, edgy and cool that gives a Coachella vibe of being carefree.  The peculiarity of the place, the housewares and bathroom pieces in particular were well thought of and leaves a certain charm. The bathrooms were spotlessly clean and smelled good.

Upon checking in, I immediately went outside to catch the sunset. If there is one thing I love about blue waters against the vast sky is the sunset. I watch the sun as it hides from the horizon while watching people pass by. It was an awesome way to end my first night.

 I wake up early to greet the sunrise on the east. The calm waters at first streak of sun waving hello is a joy to see. I had my quick breakfast outside the hostel. Soon after, I went to scout for a surfing lesson.

I was scanning the stretch of the shore and found San Juan La Union Surf School. They are located at the far end of the coast line. Staff was very accommodating for a beginner and non-swimmer like me. I met my instructor, his name is Jerik. He is only 22 years old. He was very cool while teaching me the basics until I played with the waves. I had several attempts before I was able to get my feet rise and stand on the surf board. It was hard to balance initially, but I was able to pull through at the end. I never expected that I would enjoy surfing. When you get the hang of it and work with the water not against it, you will just sail effortlessly.

After a couple of hours, I jumped to my next itinerary and that is trekking to Tangadan Falls. While preparing for my La Union trip, I was very eager to search for a hiking activity. Incidentally, La Union also houses several falls in which Tangadan happens to be the most favored. The falls is burrowed in the town of San Gabriel, about 30 minutes jeepney ride from San Juan. Then, another 15 minute tricycle commute to reach the starting point. It is approximately a 2.5 km length of an estimate 2-hour hike depending on your pace.

I was joined by kuya Larry. My soft spoken guide. But it was a never a bore all throughout the trek. We talked about Ilokano food, places and love life. Haha.

A little more than 2 hours later, I saw the falls. It was way stunning than those of the pictures! The surrounding rocks and greens give the water at the base of the falls an olive green color which is very magnetic. After a couple of hours of trek, I just jump into the refreshing cold water.

I met a group of children while we were at the falls. (From left to right) Vic, Bryan, Virgil and Cherry Mae. They were superb swimmers! I told them that we should do a reunion at the very same place after 10 years. They all agreed in unison. I asked Bryan how old would he be by that time, he said "Seven." lol

Cherry Mae even reminded me of the idea of reunion by the time I was leaving. She said: "Ate Nico kita tayo ha after 10 years."

We spent another 2 hours and then we went home and bid the newly found friends goodbye.

I can’t sleep during my last night in La Union. I spent the rest of the afternoon by the shore as I watch the gorgeous sunset. It was so beautiful against the purplish horizon.

While most people were heading to some night parties because it was a Friday, I spent mine in a hammock at the beach front until it put me to sleep.

I was awakened by the early morning sounds of nature. The darkness was inviting for a jog and a quick shower.

The morning sea is a happy pill. You were just drawn to her and you never want to lose sight of her.

I surrendered to her daybreak charm while my ears were saturated with a love song.

Finally, it is time to move out. But before that, I had some dose of caffeine. La Union has a Starbucks rival called El Union coffee. I am not a coffee drinker but the dirty white is a must try and beef meat pie has the homey feel fresh from mom's oven.

Soon after, I boarded a bus bound to Ilocos Sur.

Ilocos Sur is no stranger to me. This is my family’s hometown. I usually spend my summers here when I was a child. I learn to eat all kinds of vegetables, goat meat and other authentic Ilocano recipes because we have the best cooks in the family.

I also remember during the middle of the day, my cousins and I would run after our lives just to get the best spot in the river. We would catch small fish and baby crabs and my uncle will make the best kilawin in town.

I spent a couple of days in Ilocos Sur with my relatives, cousins, nephews and nieces.

It was really nice having a sort of family reunion and just enjoying great food and small talks.

Further, I get to spend a short time with Lalay.

Back then when my lola Berta (my mom's mom) would tag me along during summer to Ilocos, I was a bit shy to play with my kasinsin (cousins) and gay-em (friends) because I don't know how to speak the dialect. Therefore, I would rather stay in our temporary home or come with her to meet her siblings, relatives and friends. Consequently, I would have conversations mostly with her contemporaries, the elderlies. (I was between 3-7 years old) But they don't talk to me in Tagalog. It's either in Ilokano, but mostly they converse to me in the English language. Most of them were gone already. But Lalay is still kicking ass. I remember whenever I come to Ilocos, she would greet me in English while she was sitting in front of the door. Too bad, she suffered stroke. The only words she can say now are "Wala na".

But she is still very sharp and has good appetite. She can understand instructions. I try to cheer her up and tell her that we are going to take a selfie so she has to smile. But she keeps saying "Wala na, wala na".

But when I mentioned that "Kukunin ko yang loop earrings mo, matagal ko na yang hinihingi sayo eh", she smiled and luckily I captured the moment.

Thereafter, I had some quick roundabout of the small town. Pictures below were taken at Paraiso ni Juan. Ilocos region primarily is the home of some personalities that has changed the landscape of the Philippines at large. These game-changers spent a lot of their formative years in these places. Ideas will be pouring endlessly...

My feet was up and running again. While it was still dark, I found myself inside the bus bound to Laoag. As soon as I reached the terminal, I booked the next available trip to Pagudpud.

What I love about Ilocos Norte, aside from the mainstream white  sands which most tourists look for, is the native beach where lies the several dark colored rock formations. It gives a certain character and texture against the blue waters.

Five hours have passed until I reached Saud Beach. The crystal blue waters welcomed me as I began advancing towards the shore. The place was very secluded. There was only a handful of people spending the last stretch of summer. What is even more amazing aside from the sands and water, is that you have the mighty Bangui windmills lining up the edges of the sea. What more can you ask for?

I just spend the morning lying down and playing with the waves. Kuya Roger, a fisherman happened to pass by and manage to take some of my pictures.

I also had the chance to take a quick tour at the Cape Bojeador and the Burgos lighthouse. This is one of my favorite tours, because the guide on duty shared historical information about the place. History and culture were just like a daily adrenaline pill for my brain.

The view from the lighthouse was just majestic that it can be likened to the rolling hills of Batanes. I read somewhere online, that there were actually a sort of ‘caballeros’ of Burgos, however I didn’t see any of them at that time.

Below our some of the photos taken by my tricycle driver, Kuya Marvin.

This was my longest backpacking trip so far. Aside from the captivating sceneries of the Philippines, I also enjoy listening to every stories of people I meet. Their stories inspire me and this inspiration I am also sharing to you.

Life is great, because God is great and it will become a greater life or even an awesome one when we share it with others.