The long drive to the mountains of the Cordilleras, Philippines
We set off from Manila and embarked on a journey to my hometown in Kalinga, the northernmost part of the Philippines. It was a delightful experience taking the scenic route through Baguio, Sagada, and Bontoc, eventually arriving at Balbalan, my ancestral tribe. I was pleasantly surprised to see my partner confidently navigate the winding mountain roads. But it was only easy for him because the terrain resembles the picturesque landscapes found in various parts of his country, Switzerland.
(1) La Trinidad – Beckel (2) Atok – Cattubo Near Baguio (3) Bubuias, Amgaleyguey (4) Attok, Cattubo (5) Tinglayan
After a long drive and a hundred pit stops, we are finally home at Balbalsang, Balbalan. Returning home this time held significance. I arrived with my newfound family, surprising many with our unexpected presence after two eventful years in Palawan. We cherished a week-long stay for my folks and my bedridden grandma, before resuming our road trip towards the south.
Exploring Luzon and venturing into Visayas, Philippines
Our ultimate objective wasn’t solely to embark on a typical travel adventure but to discover a place that met our specific criteria for a home. With that in mind, we ignited the engine again and set our sights in the southern direction. Departing from Kalinga, we opted for an alternative route. Traversing the scenic Cagayan Valley, with several delightful stops to visit cousins and relatives en route to Manila.
The trip continued to the southeastern region of Luzon Island, known as the Bicol region. Unsure where to stop we soon encountered the renowned wakeboarding capital of the Philippines and the majestic stratovolcano, Mt. Mayon. where spent the night.
A family postcard with a backdrop of the breathtaking Mt. Mayon in the Bicol Region, Philippines.
(1) Lake Buhi, Camarines Sur (2) Wakeboarding Capital of the Philippines (3) A Haven for a Night in Pili
Passing Through: A Brief Glimpse of Visayan Delights
Navigating from one stop to the next, we cruised through Sorsogon in the Bicol region, hoping to spot whale sharks in Donsol. Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on our side. Undeterred, we hopped on a ferry to Allen, Samar, and eagerly continued towards Leyte through the longest bridge in the country. Although Leyte boasts many tourist spots that I wanted to see, my partner’s excitement for Mindanao led us to stay for only a night. The following morning, we explored notable monuments, including the impressive War Memorial in Palo, and left.
(1) The War Memorial, Leyte Philippines (2) The Oriental Hotel in Leyte
Onto the Land of Promise: Mindanao, Philippines
With our spirits high and anticipation bubbling, we eagerly boarded yet another ferry. With our trusty car in tow, we were ready to conquer the last major island on our journey. Our excitement was palpable, fueled by the prospect of setting foot on Siargao, the epitome of hipness in the country. After a four-hour ferry ride, we reached Surigao City, where we decided to indulge in a two-night stay before embarking on the next leg of our adventure – another ferry ride, this time to the coveted Siargao Island.
I must admit traveling while nursing a baby was undeniably challenging, requiring a surplus of energy and perseverance. Upon arriving in Siargao, a wave of relief washed over me. Our decision to spend a week in a charming bamboo house filled me with pure excitement. It was sort of a dream come true.
Our hopes of finding another paradise like El Nido in Siargao were abruptly shattered by the arrival of a fierce storm. Just as we began to settle into this newfound haven, it was snatched away from us within a mere three days. Sensing the impending storm, we swiftly searched for a more sturdy hotel, realizing that the fragile bamboo house would not withstand its wrath.
Before The Storm
(1) Bamboo House Bird’s Eye View (2-7) The Bamboo House (8-10) Lamari Resort, General Luna (11) Siargao Bleu Resort
After The Storm
(1-4) Outside Our Room At Lamari Resort (5-6) General Luna Street (7) Our Rescue Plane
Escaping the Aftermath: Navigating Our Way to Safety
In an instant, everything changed. Our anticipated dream of a tropical Christmas faded away after a long trip from the north. While we remained unscathed, the same couldn’t be said for 90% of Siargao’s residents who lost their homes. Trapped in our rooms for days, we anxiously awaited assistance, grateful for the support provided by Lamari Resort. It was a time of chaos and uncertainty. And amidst it all, a pressing question loomed: How could we safely escape the island of Siargao?
Our ferry plans were dashed as the port lay in ruins, leaving us in dire need of supplies. With no choice but to leave our car behind, Lamari put it to use for relief transport. Thankfully, our neighbor Guilia came to our aid, offering a ride on a Cessna caravan back to Manila. A safer alternative for our baby than the military plane. It was a long wait, but after two months in Switzerland, we came back to reclaim our car and bid Siargao farewell for the second time.