travel posts from the Philippines
We were so hyped upon waking up on our 1st day in Ilocos. We still could not believe that we were able to reach the northernmost part of the country.
We started our first day by having breakfast at the nearby McDonalds located just across Robinsons. The Amihan (northeast) winds were truly strong in the north. It was very cold when we got out from the hotel.
After breakfast. we are ready to conquer Ilocos!
It was one of those dreams made into reality moment when we finally stepped into the land of the Marcoses. It was already 2 am when we arrived at Laoag City, the capital of Ilocos Norte after being on board the Florida bus for 12 hours. Phew! that was the longest trip we had so far! With no clue as to where our hotel is located ( last minute booking through agoda), we just let the tricycle driver take us to Farmside Hotel, which later that day we discovered was a bit far from the city center. With tired bodies but with still active minds, we called it a day and was too excited for the next day ahead!
Apart from the tunneling waves of Siargao are islets that boasts of sugary white sand. Of equal popularity to locals are the three islands off the shores of General Luna namely; Naked Island, Daku Island and Guyam Island. You can arrange island hopping tours through you resort (pretty sure they offer) or if you want a cheaper bargain, you can go to the Boulevard in General Luna (near the market) and look for a boat for hire. Their rates range from 1,200- 1500 depending on how many you are. We got ours for 1,200.
NAKED ISLAND
Situated farthest among the three from General Luna, Naked Island is actually a 200 meter sand bar- no trees nor any life form just pure white sand.
If you are a fan of having a tan, you’d definitely love it here. The sun was literally above us when we were there. The scorching heat of the sun gave us sunburns the day after. haha
And there are no naked people here. hehe
DAKU ISLAND
A perfect place for beach bumming is the Daku Island. “Daku” is a local term which means big. Of the three, this is the biggest and inhabited by a hundred plus locals. Beach front cottages are available for day and overnight use. The place is ideal for family picnics and group outings.
We spent most of our time dawdling in its long strip of powdery white sand and crystal clear water.
We stayed too long that the boat man already persuaded that we leave since it was getting dark and we still have one island to go.hehe
GUYAM ISLAND
The nearest of them all. Guyam island is of the same size as Naked Island only that it has small coconut trees scattered throughout the little island. The island is considered private hence a 10php/person entrance fee is collected.
The island is so near the shore that I guess a good swimmer can reach it by swimming alone.
The island is great for pictorials and it has a good view of the sunset.
Contrary to my previous belief, Siargao’s water is not entirely made of gigantic waves. There are placid areas too making it possible for island hopping adventure and beach bumming. Hence, don’t limit yourself on your adventure to just surfing and treading the waves in Siargao. Explore what this little piece of paradise has to offer!
One lesson learned during our visit to Magpupungko Rock Formation is to make sure its low tide when going there. Our first attempt was an epic fail! We went there on a high tide! This magnificent piece of nature shows up as sea water lowers down creating a natural pool. What makes it unique is that the ocean waves get separated by a large reef making it possible for you to walk on it. Such an incredible phenomenon!
The reason why Siargao has been a word of mouth not only among surfers but also among travel enthusiasts is because of this famed surf break located in Cloud 9 in the town of General Luna. Facing the Pacific Ocean, the island boasts of a lot of surf breaks catering to novices and pros but the one in Cloud 9 gives you that total swell. During rainy months, especially on September, waves can break into towering heights forming the number 9. This is the reason why the International Surfing Cup is held yearly during this month.
doreen the explorer 