Vanishing Island, Samal Island

 

Dear

 

It’s worth mentioning that we arrived at this island in style.

We were brought here by Pieter of Samal Island Huts (where we stayed) via his toy speedboat!

 

As you noticed, the blue skies played with us. Didn’t want to show her face obviously, she just peeked through the whites and grays. Nevertheless I enjoyed my stay here. A little stroll there, a little snorkel there, and we’re off. We actually experienced the island vanishing, with the water going up slowly by the minute. How cool is that!

 

Love,

Monfort Bat Sanctuary, Samal Island

 

Dear

 

"Enter freely and of your own free will!"

― Bram Stoker, Dracula

 

I was freaked out overwhelmed.  It wasn’t exactly a sweet and fragrant visit but it was definitely memorable and I was extremely amazed. Can you tell? Never have I seen anything by this number in my entire life. Thousands, no, maybe millions of fruit bats screeching, hanging, sleeping. Wow. This guys aren’t Guinness World Record holders for nothing. They must look eerily beautiful when flying out of their bat caves. So note to self: make sure to be at the Vanishing Island next time to watch this whole river of fruit bats emerge from their hellholes. That would be one epic gothic moment.

 

Love,

Hagimit Falls and Natures Park, Samal Island

 

Dear

 

Stop dreaming about Mexico’s hidden cave pool and go to Samal! Somewhere here, a waterfall used to flow. It may not be as maintained as that cave pool, but it’s as magical.

 

Love,

Pearl Farm, Davao

 

Dear

 

So I went ahead and welcomed Summer earlier than most of you guys.  I bathed in the glorious rays of the Pearl Farm resort sun and screamed at myself "BURNNNN!" Davao is my last trip before going back to a miserable little cube called office. Believe it or not, I’m going to miss the Sun.

 

Love,

The 15th Hot Air Balloon Festival, Pampanga

 

Dear

 

So Pong acquired a new gig after Batibot folded up. Nyah! Seriously, he is my favorite big balloon! He looks so happy up there!

 

Love,

 

The 15th Hot Air Balloon Festival, Pampanga

 

Dear

 

Hearts and B.F. come to mind when February arrives. Hearts for Valentines and Balloons and Fireworks! Hot Air Balloons and Pyromusical Competition that is.  To me, nothing is more fun and somewhat romantic than watching these hovering ginormous balloons in different shapes and sizes. And being thisclose to these giants are so overwhelming! Here's my souvenir from the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta some years back. Browsing through my photos gets me excited all over again.

 

Love,