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queenisobelle · 5 years ago

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Have you ever been in love with an island?

vimeo

Camiguin will always be an island that has a lot to offer. You want to go sunbathing on the beach? Check! Trekking on an inactive volcano? Absolutely! Springs? You can choose from cold or hot and they even have a carbonated water spring! Ruins of time? Say no more. The island is small in area and very opposite to the life of a busy city. The locals are nice and accommodating. Their food is superb. I probably don’t have to mention how sweet their lansones is and it’s also the home to the award-winning pastel.

As of now, there are only two flights from Cebu bound to Camiguin either through Cebu Pacific Airlines or Philippine Airlines. When arriving at the Camiguin airport, there aren’t a lot of public transportations that can bring you to your place of accommodation so you either have to ride an airport shuttle service from your hotel or resort or you can hail a motorcycle. Most tourists rent motorcycles while on their stay in the island basically because it is the most convenient and efficient way to circumnavigate the island. You’ll have to ask whether it’s inclusive of the driver and/or the fuel costs.

Camiguin Blue Lagoon Cottages became our home for four days and three nights in Camiguin. The clean and cozy resort is located within the surrounding area of the Taguines Lagoon in Benoni, Mahinog with an overlooking view over the picturesque lagoon as well as the Mantigue Island and the Pacific Ocean beyond it.

Just a little walk from the Tagines Lagoon is where the Katunggan Mangrove Forest Park is located. The place has bridges built on the water to let you tour over the mangroves. The place is stern and serene ecopark lets you enjoy the sea breeze with your family and friends or even alone.

Camiguin has two islets both of which are a haven for beach goers who love the blue sea and the white sands. Access to the Mantigue Island is by a boat at a fixed rate of Php600 per boat good for six persons on top of the Php50 entrance fee per person. If you are on a solo adventure or your barkada’s headcount is lower than six, you can be friendly and join other packs to reach six persons per boat since the price is nonnegotiable since it has been set by the tourism committee itself to protect both the tourism and the tourists. Mantigue is an island and a sanctuary to wild plants and marine animals.

Another islet is the White Island which is christened as the Naked Fortress of Camiguin due to its white sandbar which changes shapes depending on the waves of the tides. Boat ride to the island is fixed at Php450 and entrance fee is at Php50 per head. The headcount per boat is still six persons so if you want to save costs, being friendly is the key. The island has a great view of the volcanoes and the view of the mountains holds a close resemblance to Te Fiti Island from Disney’s Moana. The waters are clear on the shorelines and a varying shade of blue as they go deeper into the sea of what can only be described as nature’s monochromatic divine creation.

Camiguin is also well-known for the eruption of Mt. Vulcan or presently known as the Old Volcano back in 1871 which was a tragic history to remember. A lot of infrastructures were destroyed. Hundreds of lives were lost and it buried a beautiful town into a mass of rubbles from the earth itself. Years later after the town has been rebuilt, the ruins of time became castles of eternity – a naked ambiance that radiates the essence of the structure’s life.

Visiting the Guiob Church Ruins can be melancholic knowing that it used to be a significant place of faith where people gather for the religious congregation and people have actually lost their lives there. However, going to the ruins and seeing the remains will make you appreciate how time heals the wounds and how there is beauty in adversity. In there, you may light a candle and pray for the people and the world. The relics of the church and the convent have aged gorgeously through time. The edifices were still intact except that they don’t have roofs anymore. The bellowing winds and the roaring waves from the nearby shores provide a gentle breeze to the remnants of the church grounds. The shades of the dancing trees provide shelter to the folks on the ground. Meditating and pondering about your life will be a good thing to do here since the place is best for relaxation of the body and the soul.

One of the most iconic ruins of the volcanic eruption is the Sunken Cemetery where the whole garden of remembrance sank to the deep seawaters. The only remnant which can be seen above the surface of the water is the colossal cross. The remains of the dead buried there were relocated to another solemn place. The area is now known to be a diving spot to tourists and a home to marine creatures.

The Old Volcano has gone inactive since its last eruption decades ago, hence, one of the attractions in the island is The Walkway to the Old Volcano and Stations of the Cross. The dome-shaped volcano has now become one of trekkers’ favorite trekking spot. The trail is marked by the 14 Stations of the Cross all the way to the summit of the volcano. The trail starts on with the concreted steps under the shelter of the trees but as it goes further, the concreted steps will be gone and replaced by the ground’s dirt which will make you feel the sensation of being connected to the ancestries of the earth. The giant trees will be fewer each time you trek further so the roasting heat of the sun can be felt on a sizzling summer day. If you love keeping fit and/or reliving your faith as a Christian, this is a good place to stroll around and contemplate.

Known as The Island Born of Fire, Camiguin has total count of seven volcanos which exceeds the number of its towns which is only five in number. The volcanos have definitely shaped the island into what it is now. The PhilVolcs Observatory in Mambajao is open to the public anyone is interested to learn about the volcanos in the island. The steep ride to the observatory will be worthwhile for it offers an overlooking view of the Mambajao town as well as the shores of the White Island. The spot is even better at night for it presents the captivating overlooking view of the Camiguin nightscapes.

The iconic trio of Mt. Tres Marias is one of the seven volcanos in the Island. The mountains are known for their seemingly identical views over a point of view when in fact they are not so adjacent from each other. The view can be hiding in a plain sight so having a local with you is an advantage so as not to miss any sites to feast your eyes on in the island.

Being in a volcanic island also means you get to enjoy springs with either hot or cold temperatures. The Ardent Hot Spring is situated in the town of Mambajao which offers warm and relaxing bath to the tourists. Although the temperature of the sections varies depending on the spot of the water, you get to enjoy a hot bath especially when you go there at sundown.

In a hot summer day, the Sto. Niño Cold Spring in Catarman offers a very ice-cold bath with its crystal clear waters. The cold spring is an oasis of cool sensations which can be adored after a long trip under the scorching heat of the mighty sun.

As if the hot and cold springs are not enough, the island also has the possession of a soda spring which is made up of of a carbonated water. The Bura Soda Spring’s water tastes like soda due to the natural carbonation in the water. Isn’t it peculiarly stunning? Unfortunately, we were not able to experience bathing in soda due to time conflicts in our itinerary but it’s definitely a must-try attraction for both local and foreign tourists.

Nature is really generous in Camiguin for it has a number of bewildering waterfalls which will bring joy to your soul not only because of its crystal clear waters but because it brings you to the paradise of first creations. The Tuasan Falls in Catarman is a sight to behold with its heavy splash of falling waters where you can take your refreshing bath and swim in the mighty design of Mother Nature herself. The Katibawasan Falls has high slow moving water that is flowing from the top of the hard rocks. The relaxed straight down flow of the water is so splendid that it will give you a glimpse of nature’s soul in the presence of the water as it flows. The waterfalls in Camiguin are so grandiose and if someone says that the water nymphs are incarnated there, I would accept it as true.

On the day of our departure, we bought the award-winning pastel on our way to the airport. The Vjandep (pronounced as “van-dep”) Bakery which bakes the iconic sweet classic yema pastel is located in the busy streets of Mambajao and has been in business of baking goodness since 1990. We can consider this as the obligatory pasalubong when coming back from Camiguin.

The escape to the paradise island was definitely a remarkable experience which I wanted to remember through this travel journal. I will always treasure the experiences and the memories which I’ve acquired in the island.

While waiting for our return flight to Cebu, I got the familiar feeling that I had when I left the island during my last visit. Every time I leave the island, a part of me always wants to come back. The feeling seems like a part of my soul was left somewhere there and constantly pleads me to reunite with it. For that, I can confirm – I am indeed in love with the island. I do love Camiguin… and I’m certain that all the folks who had been there felt the same.

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jobatcdeo · 3 years ago

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royvelasco · 5 years ago

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Come Again in Camiguin: A Travel Guide to the Island Born of Fire

You will definitely say that you’ll come back once you have explored this beautiful small paradise. Not just famous for its multiple volcanoes and sweet lanzones, Camiguin is a paradise of unspoiled scenery and joyful people.

Related Post: The Ultimate Cebu Backpacking Guide for Solo Travelers

Where is Camiguin?

Located in Bohol Sea, off the northern coast of Mindanao, Camiguin is the second smallest province in the country after Batanes. Used to be part of Misamis Oriental, Camiguin is now an independent province under the Northern Mindanao Region or Region X.

A view of Tres Marias

How To Get Here?

There are multiple ways to get to this island. The one I took is the fastest and most convenient, yet can be the most expensive. Good thing, I was able to book a promo flight from Cebu to Camiguin for only around Php900 (Usd17) roundtrip. Make sure to follow local airlines on all their social media accounts and subscribe to their newsletter to be notified of their seat sales. As of writing, Skyjet is the only airline that offers a direct flight from Manila to Camiguin. You need to have a layover in Cebu if you’re flying Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines.

You can also reach Camiguin coming from Mindanao, either fly from Manila or Clark to CDO (Cagayan De Oro) or Butuan. Go to Balingoan Port to take the ferry to Camiguin (Benoni Port). Benoni Port is on the other side of the island, opposite the capital Mambajao, but is already near Mantigue Island. Plan your itinerary accordingly.

Another way is from Jagna, Bohol entering Camiguin (Balbagon Port) via Super Shuttle Ferry. This port is located in the capital.

Where To Go?

Touring around the island requires renting a motorbike or hiring a tour guide/driver. I went to Camiguin as a solo traveler and since I am not confident enough to drive to this new place, I opted to hire a tour guide to drive me around with his habal-habal (motorbike). Multicabs and vans are available as well for group travelers.

My tour guide that time was Kuya Mel whom I met on one of the travel groups on Facebook. He is definitely recommendable as he’ll make sure that you will make the most out of your Camiguin trip. You can reach him here on his Facebook account (Ako si Mel) or contact him at +63 9227800888. Please let him know that you were referred by me. ;)

White Island

Boat: Php450/Usd8.6 (RT good for 4 pax)

Environmental Fee: Php50/Usd1

I stayed in Camiguin for 3 days and had enough time to visit this island on my first day. I did it on DIY by hailing a motorella from my accommodation in Yumbing to CheckPoint (Php9/Usd0.17). I had a quick satisfying lunch first in CheckPoint Camiguin then had a short walk to the White Island Ferry Terminal. The best time to visit White Island is around 5AM to 8PM in the morning and 3PM to 5PM to avoid the scorching heat of the sun.

Mantigue Island

Boat: Php600/Usd11.5 (RT good for 6 pax)

Environmental Fee: Php30/Usd0.57

You can stay in the island for a maximum of four hours only.

Sunken Cemetery

Entrance Fee: None

You can hire a small boat to take you to the cross for Php100/Usd1.9 good for 5pax.

Old Gui-ob Church Ruins (Old Catarman Church Ruins)

Entrance Fee: Php10/Usd0.19

Katibawasan Falls

Entrance Fee: Php50/Usd1

Tuasan Falls

Entrance Fee: Php50/Usd1

Pamunglo Spring

Location: Sagay

Entrance Fee: None

I almost ditched off this destination but thankfully due to my tour guide’s persistence, I approved his offer to go here since we’re already around the area. There was no entrance fee anyway. And indeed thanks to my tour guide, I was in awe when I saw the clear water of Pamunglo Spring. We were also the only people when we got there. Its cold flowing water definitely eased the afternoon heat.

Camiguin Mark

Location: Mambajao Town Proper

Entrance Fee: None

1914 Plaza

Location: Mambajao Town Proper

Entrance Fee: None

Sto. Nino Cold Springs

Entrance Fee: Php50/Usd1

Ardent Hot Spring

Entrance Fee: Php50/Usd1

The heat was manageable. The water was actually lukewarm.

Tongatok Cliff Viewdeck

Entrance Fee: None

This is one of the spots perfect for sunset-viewing.

Walkway to the Old Volcano

Entrance Fee: None

Old Parola

Entrance Fee: None

The Province of Misamis Oriental on the other side

Moro Tower

Location: Guinsiliban

Entrance Fee: None

Sagay Church

Lagoon Fishpen and Zipline

I opted not to enter anymore and just settled with this overlooking view of the area with the Mantigue island from afar.

Below are some of the spots that we’re unable to visit as most of them were not operational by that time:

Bura Soda Water Pool – It was a Monday and unfortunately, they do cleaning and maintenance on that day. My tour guide was kind enough to still bring me here to taste the water that comes out on this community’s faucets as I was really intrigued about it. He said that it’s safe to drink anyway. One thing is for sure, it doesn’t taste like Sprite. ;)

Saay Cold Spring

Giant Clam Sanctuary

Where to Eat?

CheckPoint Camiguin – 'Probably the best restaurant in Camiguin that serves cheap delicious meals.

The Beehive – ‘Quite off the track but definitely worthy of visit.

Dragonfruit Shake and Honeycomb Cookie

Island Pizza Express – 'Located in Mambajao, just along the main road. This pizza chain serves brick-oven pizza that is budget-friendly. White Island Pizza is my personal favorite and was recommended by my tour guide.

La Dolce Vita – ‘literally just in front of the airport. It’s more on the expensive side but serves delicious authentic Italian cuisine.

Where to Buy Pasalubong (Souvenirs)?

Most of us always make sure that we have something from our travel when we get back home. It can be a remembrance to one’s self or a gift for families and friends. Probably the most famous would be a ref magnet, a key chain, or if budget permits, a nice printed tee. My tour guide Kuya Mel advised that the cheapest souvenirs such as ref magnets and key chains can be bought in any of the souvenir shops near the Sunken Cemetery. I was able to purchase 7 (mix of ref magnets and keychains) for only Php100 (Usd1.9). On the other hand, I got a muscle shirt in the “Pasalubong sa Camiguin” near the airport for only Php170 (Usd3.2).

For something edible, Lanzones is definitely on the top list. Camiguin is one of the places that produces the sweetest Lanzones in the entire country. They actually celebrate the Lanzones Festival every third week of October so this might be a good season to go here. For pastry lovers, you need to hoard boxes of VjANDEP Pastel of Camiguin. This delectable bread with its sweet filling is surely loved by everyone.

This trip is part of my 11-day Journey to Cebu and Camiguin. Check-out my Cebu post HERE!

DISCLAIMER: Information above is based on my actual experience during my visit on August 2019. Details like prices, contact information, etc. may change due to different factors. Feel free to comment down below for updates.

NOTE: I own all the images used on this blog post unless otherwise stated. Please don’t use these for any purposes, unless you acknowledge the owner. Thank you.

#Travel #Philippines Travel #Camiguin Travel #Blog 2019 #Philippines 2019 #Camiguin 2019 #Philippines #Camiguin #Solo Travel

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abouttchris · 6 years ago

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I’ll never get enough of this... #2019goals #vsco #planoly #forever #favorite [This is just buns with filling so nothing special.👹] (at VjANDEP Pastel of Camiguin) https://www.instagram.com/p/BuGbDbMnYeD/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=17f7bnrkv63yr

#2019goals #vsco #planoly #forever #favorite

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marsymallows · 5 years ago

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Yes, you read it right! I finally did it! I went on a solo trip for the first time and it’s for my 30th birthday!!

I’ve been thinking of doing this for the longest time as I love TRAVELING, and lately, I love being ON MY OWN. Put those together, and what do you get? Labo! Seriously, you can just do the math! Haha!

I booked this trip probably around April (when we got our bonus) and when PAL had one of their seat sales, which was very timely. I did not book any baggage allowance yet as I wanted to backpack around the island and I wanted to teach myself how to pack light this time. So total cost was around Php 1,100 round freaking trip!!!!!!

Weeks prior to the trip, I wasn’t sure if I was gonna push through as the weather didn’t look so good, plus I was a bit short on moolah as I am not doing well at my sales job, but since I was turning 30 naman na and I saved up pa rin naman, plus, I, really, really wanted to do something new, I did it!!! My adventurous self was poking me constantly that I got annoyed so sige na, push na this!

The week prior to the trip, I was still sooooo busy implementing activities. I even traveled to one of my remote territories the day before, so you can just imagine how tired I was from the long drive, but that didn’t stop me! In fact, I was sooooo excited, I packed my bag a few days prior. Usually, I’d pack my luggage the night before a trip, which brings me to ehem, the things I learned on my first ever solo trip!

PACK YOUR BAG EARLY! – Ok so you guys probably already know this, but did I say that this post was about you? Charot! Nang-away? Anyhooooo, I normally pack my bags the night before, coz that’s the time that I don’t have to worry about my deodorant getting lost in my luggage when I haven’t put on any yet. Same with my slippers, undies etc. This time, I started packing my stuff at least 2 days prior, so I had time to sort through my beach OOTD’s, my swimwear, my scarves (always!). I had time to check my travel toiletries so I could buy whatever’s lacking. I was also able to organize my stuff in separate travel pouches especially my cords, chargers, batteries!

RESULT:I was able to eliminate excess stuff as I had time to really think about what I am going to wear based on my itinerary. Unfortunately, I still had to buy prepaid baggage allowance. I guess I really am no expert at PACKING SHYET, I mean, PACKING LIGHT. I guess this was still a FAIL, nevertheless, I still tried (so it’s a WIN too!) and that’s what matters. For my next beach trip though, I would really want to pack less than 7kg! Challenge accepted!

my backpack weighed 10kg at 50L! My shoulder bag weighed 6.5kg! LIGHT PACKER BA KAMO? Haha!

DO A LOT OF RESEARCH! NO ONE’S GONNA DO IT FOR YOU THIS TIME! Normally, my brother and sister would do all the research for our family trips, from the itinerary, to hotels and transport to restaurants to try and shopping districts to visit. Same with trips with my friends. I have a friend in Cebu who does all the financial stuff, so we would all just depend on her on how much we would all have to pay individually when the bills come. The only time I did really heavy research was for our first Japan trip coz I had all the time in the world (I was unemployed at the time haha). So It’s not like I am useless when traveling. See, I could do it if I want to, and this time, I HAD TO. Thanks to all the bloggers, vloggers, influencers, Biyahe ni Drew, and my bro for all the tips, the tricks and all the things they learned from their trips to Camiguin.

RESULT: I was able to browse through different options and finally book my accommodations the best way possible (Thanks Agoda and Booking.com). I was able to put together my own itinerary (without having to consider the preferences of another–yay for solo trips). Although 70% of my research was literally just spoon fed by my brother who went to Camiguin a few months earlier, I still am proud of myself for being able to juggle these last minute reservations with TONS of WORK!!

IF THERE’S AN OPTION TO PAY CHEAPER, GO FOR IT! – This is probably a result of doing number 2 too. No, it’s not the #2 you’re thinking about! I was referring to DOING YOUR RESEARCH.

If you happen to find out how much things really cost ahead of time, say for example, renting a scooter to go around the island on, you wouldn’t pay Php 500 for a 24 hour use!!!! And yes, I am speaking from experience. Sadly, I forgot how much my brother paid for his when he rented one. I didn’t have time to scroll through our looooooooooong IG conversation, so I paid Php 500 instead of just Php 250-300!

When commuting, try to find out how to go around like the locals do (thanks bro and our hotel receptionists for the tips!)! It would help you save big time! On my 3rd day, I commuted on Camiguin’s public transport, aka their relas/motorelas and paid around Php 11 the most!

Camiguin motorela and the Samuel by Vjandep restaurant in the background!

Also, when you’re alone in say some sort of public pool with tables for rent, you don’t have to rent a whole table for your stuff and pay Php 75. Sadly, I also did, when I could just have left my bag and slippers beside the pool itself.

For food, try walking around your hotel, look for restaurants where the locals eat, or again, do your research and check reviews of previews visitors to get the “bung for your buck!”. You don’t really have to go cheap for food, but it would be soooooo nice to have a sumptuous for an incredibly affordable seafood lunch or dinner!

Hayahay Cafe’s famous smoothie bowl!

For your accommodation: Since this was my birthday trip, I booked a night at a pricier place, Ysla Beach Camp and Eco Resort for the glamping experience and I must say that it was worth every penny! Then I transferred to a budget hotel, GV hotel which was equally worth my hard earned money coz it was in the middle of everything and I was really comfortable as well! My room was just Php 500 a night! I just added P25/night to transfer to an air-conditioned room. I will be making a separate post for my trip itinerary so I will be writing a more extensive review of the land arrangements!

Another tip for budget travelers going to Camiguin, I paid friggin Php 200 for my boat ride to White Island instead of Php 450-500, though the guilt trip afterwards still kills me to this day! LOL! Instead of finding and convincing a group of 3 or perhaps a couple to take you along with them on their boat (boat can only accommodate 4 tourists and 2-3 boatmen) before you go to the cashier, try going directly to the cashier at the port and wait for a group to approach her and pay her, before you tell them that you are on your own and you’re looking for a group to join. This way, they would have paid their 550 each and you’re just gonna have to pay a joiner fee of Php 200. You can talk to the group if they wish to split the payment equally and pay them after. That’s what I did, but the couple didn’t want my money! So I saved 300-350 bucks! Again, I don’t recommend this, but you can most definitely try!

RESULT: Need I say more?

MAKE SURE TO LET PEOPLE KNOW YOUR ITINERARY! – I was in constant communication with my brother and my family, just in case I get in any accident or into any serious situation. And you can also get in touch with friends through video call if you can! It will be less lonely! LOL!

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RENT A SCOOTER OR MOTORCYCLE! – I need not emphasize this!! This is the best way for you to go around the island, on your own time and terms. Of course, there are risks of you being flagged down by NPA’s (JK! there are NONE!), or crashing with no one to rescue you (there’s no cell service in some parts of the island) or getting robbed (not that I heard any) but it’s part of the adventure! TBH, it was my first time riding one and I was manhandled by it. JK! The first time I was ever on a scooter (which was manual transmission pa) was back in high school/college (about 10-15 years ago) and my tito was just letting us have a feel of it around an almost carless cemetery. So I have no experience of riding one on public roads ever, but like what they always say, long as you know how to ride a bike, you’re good to go! Funny coz when the owner was handing it to me, I asked him 3x how to lock the bike when getting off (to avoid it getting robbed), how to start the ignition etc that he started to worry too. He even offered to drive me around instead, but I was firm to say “hindi kuya, gusto ko ako lang!” Tapang-tapangan eh! Solo travel nga diba? Nagtataray na naman? Char! Kidding aside, I told him firmly but in a nice way that I wanted to go around on my own. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be able to write about it here as part of my personal milestones! Yun lang pala!

LESSONS LEARNED: Always bring your driver’s license with you when you travel. I left mine at home, in Cebu, so I drove to the airport and back without one too! So, on my 3rd day in Camiguin, I commuted on motorelas, which was equally fun as it got me to talk to the locals and foreign tourists alike!

BE SURE TO KNOW YOUR WAY AROUND THE ISLAND! – Download the map so you could still navigate offline! Know where the tourist spots are! Ask around! I relied on Google Maps the whole time and it’s a good thing that you can literally go around the island via their circumferential road!

SUPPORT LOCAL! – This one I’m proud to say I do in all my travels! Who doesn’t? Try the local cuisine all you want coz you are gonna miss them for sure! I always make it a point to buy cute artisan products coz I love ANYTHING HANDMADE and HANDCRAFTED and ANKLETS! The one I wore on this trip was from El Nido! Talk to the artists or restaurant owners and ask them about their passion, for inspiration in your own life! LESSON LEARNED: Talking to owners and artists is what I got to learn how to do in future solo travels! I need to be less awkward and less shy! LOL!

BUY A TRIPOD WITH BLUETOOTH REMOTE CONTROLLER! – This was probably the first on my list of things to buy before I went on this trip! My friend, Dee recommended the Xiaomi selfie stick and tripod in one! It doesn’t extend that long, but it is sturdy and reliable as hell! Dayum these Mi products really are worth your money! You can easily slip it inside your beach bag as it isn’t bulky at all! You can also attached the bluetooth controller into the stick so you don’t have to worry about it getting lost! Got it for P799!

MAKE FRIENDS! – I traveled solo to have peace of mind and to not worry about wasting other people’s time, but it wouldn’t hurt to talk to a few strangers along the way. I may be an introvert, but that definitely doesn’t mean that I’m antisocial. There’s a thick line between those two coz I love talking to people. Ang defensive? I like getting to know people and hearing their stories, but in an intimate way. I don’t like big groups unless I’m comfortable with everyone. I get energy from having time for myself, but also from talking to people who inspire me, have a laugh with me and all that shizz.

In this particular trip, I got to know 2 other guests at Ysla Beach Camp. We only got to talk at breakfast before we all checked out and like everyone I met on this trip, they were surprised that I was on my own! I found out that one of them was from Cebu too, and they gladly shared tips on where to spend the sunset at.

The night before, it was one of the senior staff, ate Bing whom I talked to while waiting for my food. She shared stories about the whole Biyahe Ni Drew Crew including the main man himself **coughs so gwapo! **coughs and compared him to Atom Araullo who also visited their resort in the past.

At the Church ruins, I met this little boy named Christian, who took all of my amazing IG-worthy photos. He directed me and shot my photos in less than 5 minutes! Fastest photoshoot ever and I was surprised by how beautiful everything turned out. Walang tapon!

Lastly, on my motorela ride back to the airport (which took less than 10 mins), I met this hilarious couple who pep-talked me about career women marrying late in life. Buti na lang kasabut na ko ug Bisaya (ngek mali pa rin pala!) and was laughing the whole time, I almost missed my stop! LESSON LEARNED: Travel solo and talk to strangers, one thing you won’t be able to do much when you’re traveling with someone! And one more thing, be courteous and grateful and give the locals your best smile always!

BE GENEROUS WITH YOUR TIPS! – I know that it sometimes feel unnecessary to do so, but find it in your heart to give back because people working in tourism even those kids who offered to take such good photos of you deserve it! I know most of you are probably so generous when traveling, so good for you!

BRING A BOOK OR TWO! – This may be the right time for you to finally start the book you’ve been wanting to read for the longest time, so make the most of it! It will be perfect especially if your room has no TV and no WIFI!

BE ONE WITH NATURE and ENJOY THE LITTLE THINGS! – Go camping! Wake up early and catch the sunrise by the beach! I never miss sunrises on vacation! It’s my most favorite thing to do! Usually while walking along the shore, I’d be accompanied by dogs and I would meet a couple of fishermen prepping their boat and nets! Go out and enjoy the view and the fresh air! Go for a swim! Take lots of photos and videos to reminisce memories with! Then get rid of your phones for a while or maybe just go offline for a bit and turn off your playlists and listen to the sound of nature instead! Reflect and contemplate. Paint!Pray! Walk around the city early in the morning before everyone wakes up! Walk around at night too especially if the area looks safe! Enjoy these little, big things! LESSON LEARNED: BEING ONE WITH NATURE IS ONE OF THE BEST FEELINGS IN THE WORLD!

BE GRATEFUL! – Life is beautiful so be grateful for opportunities to travel, to try something new, to meet new people, learn about their culture, for the chance to unwind and rest from all the chaos, for the time and space to reflect on your life. Good things are always present in our lives and we just fail to recognize them! For this trip, I thank the Lord over and over again. I was anticipating some travel mishaps, but I almost had none! I’m grateful that I did not crash my scooter, nor did I encounter a police checkpoint. I’m grateful for all the people who assisted me.

awra awra thanks to my selfie stick/tripod!

I’m grateful for the people who shared their stories with me! I’m grateful for the beauty that is Camiguin! It is now my favorite trip by far because I did it NOT ON MY OWN, but with GOD and with EVERYONE who helped me out!

Things I Learned from my First Ever Solo Trip / Camiguin Yes, you read it right! I finally did it! I went on a solo trip for the first time and it's for my 30th birthday!!

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