I'm just gonna go right ahead and say it: Batanes is such an *underrated* local travel destination. From the beautiful scenery to the delicious food, there's just so much to love about the northernmost province in the country. I've only been there once, but if I could go back, I definitely would. And TBH, I can't wait for the day when I can freely (and safely) travel again. Until then, BRB as I just live vicariously through my phone's camera roll.
Below are some of the best memories from my trip to Batanes.
Admiring the view from Vayang Rolling Hills
If there's one thing I love most about Batanes, it's gotta be the *breathtaking* views. Everything is so picturesque! The blue waters and the greenish brown hills make the perfect background for any photo.
Taking pictures at Valugan Boulder Beach
When our tour guide said that we were going to the beach, I literally packed a swimsuit in my bag. To my surprise, this one was different, LOL. No white sand here, but still, it was super IG-worthy.
Shopping at the Honesty Coffee Shop
The concept of this store is unique and simple: You get what you want and you pay its corresponding amount by leaving money in the respective containers. Yes, it has owners but no one really mans the store to check. So interesting!
Going to Marlboro Hills
This place definitely reminded me of Scotland and New Zealand. It felt like I was in a different country!
Climbing to the top of the Basco Lighthouse
What's a trip to Batanes without seeing the Basco lighthouse? It's a must-see tourist attraction! Heads up, though: You gotta climb several flights of stairs. But trust me, the view is totally worth it.
Walking around Chavayan Village and seeing the stone houses
During my trip, I learned that Batanes is an area that's frequently hit by strong winds and typhoons. To help protect the people from the harsh climate, their homes are built out of stones. (Yup, even the Big Bad Wolf can't take 'em down, LOL.)
Fun fact: See that thing on people's heads? That's what you call a vakul. The locals use it for protection from the sun and rain.
Eating coconut crab and blue rice
Obviously, you can't leave the place without trying their local food. I got the chance to eat coconut crab and blue rice, among others. NGL, the coconut crab was very intimidating at first, but its meat is pretty tasty! As for the blue rice, it got its color from its main ingredient: blue flower. And in case you're curious, it tastes just like regular rice.
Riding the cute tricycles in Sabtang
Check out this one-of-a-kind ride!
Visiting the churches in different municipalities
The architecture of the churches in Batanes are just plain beautiful. Below are pictures of Mt. Carmel Chapel, Sto. Domingo Church, and San Carlos Borromeo Church.
Going offline
In Batanes, signal and wifi are scarce, sometimes even non-existent. Surprisingly, this was something I appreciated. Not having these things actually made me enjoy my trip even more. I was off the grid for a few days and literally all that mattered was spending time with my family. It was the best feeling.
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Source: Cosmo PH
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