Back!

Feels good to be back!!!
And for starters, let me take you to this island called Catanduanes. As I saw it last Sunday, July 22.

The day was perfect for travel - by bus (for 2 hours) and by ferryboat (for 2 hours more). The sun was shining. The ocean was clear and calm. There was a slight wind blowing. Midway, there was a drizzle.

Catanduanes is untapped. Although there are some spots there that attract tourists, it's still pristine and un-commercialized. We (Dhin, Ate Agnes and I) had lunch at Sea Breeze, a seaside resort that boasts of fresh seafood. We had sizzling blue marlin, "sinigang na tanigue", savory squid, rice and Cokes. It was such a respite to look at the blue waters, hear the waves hit the rocky beach, feel the sun against my skin, relish the food, just soak in the sights and sounds of this little corner of the world. I was hoping to catch a glimpse of some dolphins, but these wonderful creatures never showed up. But the dolphins painted on the side of the ferryboat - were more than enough to make me smile. At least, there were dolphins (maybe not the real ones yet).

The return trip took 4 hours by ferryboat and 2 hours by bus. If you're not the type who likes long and slow boat rides, you may ride the plane instead. Catanduanes, by the way, has an airport. As in most road-trips-and-sea-adventures, it's always a good idea to hit the road real early. Wear your most comfortable clothes and slippers (it's the beach so...you know). Sunblock. Shades. Extra set of clothes since you may want to take a swim. Cameras. Cash (the native brooms or "walis", dried "pusit", "cuyog" and "maripiti" are "pasalubong" bestsellers).

I've imagined how Catanduanes would look like at night. It's definitely worth another visit. Next time, it will be an overnight weekend stay. Can't wait!

(Note: That's me in blue. Beside me is Dhin).