By Nathan Allen

When I finally explored the region, I realized it was kind of true! There are no dragons like in Game Of Thrones, but you can swim with friendly whale sharks – some as big as school buses! You can also glide down a river in the moonlight, mesmerized by the glowing lights of millions of fireflies…then wake up and stroll along the banks of a cool, misty lake – at the foot of a restless volcano!

All these reasons are why I went with this “enchanting” blog theme. However, as you can see below, Sorsogon’s beaches may also put a spell on you…

An expert in this region told me that locals are not so open to outsiders, and considering the Philippines’ history with colonizers, I don’t blame them. Anyway, I may have gotten a taste of this when I pointed out areas for tourism improvement – and a sensitive official threw himself (and Sorsogon) into the national news by declaring me “persona non grata”.

Still, I came to promote the region….and I intend on doing just that. It is a beautiful place, and for what  it’s worth, I found plenty of friendly people there as well.

Island-Hopping To Juag Lagoon, Matnog

I absolutely loved this place…you have to see it to believe it! Juag Lagoon is a marine sanctuary where you can snorkel and swim with hundreds of colorful fish – some quite large! The area is fenced off, and the fish are fed…but they are still very much in a natural environment.

I like this because it gives tourists one of the best snorkeling experiences of their lives – with minimal damage to the environment. You jump in the water from the floating cottage, so you always have something to hold on to if you need a rest. Also, since the water is deep, you never risk stepping on and damaging the coral. Note: Wearing sunblock can harm the fish, so they do not allow it.

The “Pink Sand” of Subic Beach, Matnog

This beach quickly moved up my list of favorites anywhere in the Philippines! It’s easy to see why, right? The sand is known for being pink…if you look closely, there are tiny bits of red coral mixed in with the white sand. However, it takes certain light to really notice it.

My guides Glenn, Jesz, and Mel were smart to buy fresh fish from the market in Matnog, and they also brought tents so we could try camping on the beach. I set my hammock up in the shade of the coconut trees…what a life! Subic Beach doesn’t have any hotels or facilities that I know of…only nipa huts and the homes of the villagers.

Such a stunning place…I’ll never forget taking a midnight swim here. The water was so clear that I could see the bottom – even just in the moonlight! One thing: Watch out for sand fleas. I got some bites near the water’s edge early in the morning. Aside from that minor drawback, this beach is absolutely perfect.

Floating Cottages of Panumbagan Sandbar – Pilar

From the town of Pilar, my host BM and I took a 30 minute boat ride to these picturesque floating cottages. On the way, we stopped to snorkel and harvest some “lato“, or sea grapes. It taste more like seaweed, and this was the best variety I’ve had in the Philippines so far. You can relax in the cottages and eat as much as lato as you would like!

Panumbagan Sandbar is a nice place to take photos nearby. Bicolanos may have seen the interview I did with ABS-CBN on this beach.

Parola Beach & Bulusan Bell Tower

From Magallanes, I was invited on a boat trip to Sta. Lourdes Grotto, then to see the Parola (Lighthouse) on Bagatao Beach. Both have beautiful views if you make the effort to climb up. Afterward, there was a “mud surfing” event nearby in Juban. Like me, you are probably wondering what mud surfing is…

Well, it turns out that this coastal community doesn’t have normal sandy beaches…instead, they have shallow, muddy beaches that make trips to and from the fisherman’s boats difficult. They started using planks of wood to “skim” over the mud and get back to shore. Now, the local kids have started using these “surfboards” to race. What a way to make lemonade with those lemons!

Later, Glenn toured me around Bulusan, and I had the chance to climb up the centuries-old bell tower. I believe this was built to watch out for moro pirates. This is a great place to take photos!

“Like” my page to follow along with me! – Nathan

Bulusan Volcano Natural Park

Finally, Sorsogon lives up to its enchanting name! Haha. Mt. Bulusan is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, and at its foot are the emerald green waters of Bulusan Lake. Hiking around this lake really is like strolling through a fairytale…

One of the best things about being here is how nice and cool it is! It’s a great refuge from the heat of the lowlands. Actually, I noticed Sorsogon City seemed cooler than surrounding areas as well.

I was surrounded by a lush, green canopy with butterflies, frogs, birds, and flowers everywhere I looked! I have never seen so much life in one place before. The stick insect (or walking stick) you see above was something I’ve only seen on TV! We arrived during late afternoon, and I loved seeing the locals fishing peacefully by the lake.

Swimming With The Whale Sharks in Donsol

Something I noticed about Donsol was that its wonders are not easily captured in pictures. Swimming (snorkeling) with the “gentle giants”, the whale sharks, is an incredible feeling unlike anything I have ever experienced, and yet it was almost impossible to capture on camera. Perhaps the water was unusually cloudy that day. You really have to move to keep up with them, too!

There are other places to experience whale sharks, but Donsol provides the most environmentally-responsible option. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Firefly Tours in Donsol

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by this tour! We have fireflies back home, but I have never seen anything like I did along the banks of the river that night. It was as if the stars came down from the sky and blanketed the trees in a pulsating frenzy! Pure magic, and again, almost impossible to photograph. Ate Cel was our tour guide, and she was quite good.

Stay Honest, Stay in Business

It’s definitely worth it, but I hope the local tour operators are honest about helping to fill the boats and keep the cost for tourists down. I mention this because my group was just 2, and we waited and waited for people to join. We were told there was nobody, and that we’d have to pay for the whole boat. Then during the tour, we noticed another boat with only 2 people in it.

They had arranged their tour long before ours, and we could have easily joined them and shared the costs. It could be that they wanted to be alone, but I did notice at least one review mentioning that the same thing might be happening with the whale shark interactions.

A tourist wrote that he had to pay a lot for his own boat, then noticed others in their own boats. On top of feeling like he was taken advantage of, he also worried that there might be too many boats on the water, potentially frightening the whale sharks. Happy tourists will bring more happy tourists, so I hope the officials will keep this in mind and do the right thing.

Discovering Barcelona’s Snorkeling Treasure

I heard rumors of some good “undiscovered” snorkeling in a town called Barcelona…you will have to ask the locals were the Mayor’s house is, because I believe the snorkeling is near there. We asked a local fisherman to take us out about 100 meters into the water, where the reef was creating waves.

You must bring your own snorkeling gear, because there is hardly any tourism infrastructure in Barcelona yet. The snorkeling here is quite unique, because it’s a reef in about 1-2 meters of water…but suddenly the reef wall drops down 20 or 30 meters! It feels like you are “flying” right off the edge of a cliff! Surreal.

I took the picture above with my Olympus TG-4 underwater camera. Please remember to not step on or touch any coral / sea life, because the ecosystem is fragile. You should exit the boat in deep water, and wear a life vest, because the current from the waves can be strong.

Snorkeling is not all Barcelona has to offer though, I was pleasantly surprised to find a beautiful old church, and this colorful town marker as well! Whoever had the idea to create this is a genius, because everybody will want to come take a selfie here!

There is something about this church that I love as well…there are beautiful paintings and stained glass on the walls, but there is also a sense of history here that overwhelmed and humbled me. I would like to thank Mayor “Wowo” for his hospitality during my visit.

Surfing in Gubat

Gubat has started becoming famous for surfing in recent years. I really hoped to finally learn to surf when I came here, but the timing wasn’t quite right. I guess I will have to save it for Siargao! Pictured below is Lola Sayong Eco-Surf Camp, where you can stay and take surfing lessons.

Hotels in Sorsogon

Siama Hotel, Sorsogon City

After college, famous designer Milo Naval married a girl from Sorsogon…and eventually created what is probably my favorite hotel in the world (so far:)

Tucked away in the lush jungle, Siama Hotel is a MUST SEE – whether you stay as a guest or not. This place should make Filipinos very, very proud.  You can book a room HERE.

AGM Beachfront Resort, Donsol – Probably the best you’re going to find in Donsol. Excellent service and hospitality. Try the pancakes! Book your stay HERE

Aguluz Homestay, Donsol – This is the highest-reviewed budget stay in Donsol. About $18USD for 2 people if you book online HERE

Lola Erna’s Homestay is near the bridge and firefly-watching dock. Ask the locals about it. It’s the cheapest I found! Lola Erna is very nice, and the price is just right if you’re not too picky.

Lola Sayong Eco-Surf CAMP (Gubat) is recommended, but if you’re on a tight budget, you might try the place next door on the beach. It was much cheaper. They seemed nice, but I didn’t stay there, so you’ll have to let me know how it is!

More options HERE

Getting To Sorsogon / General Info

You can reach Sorsogon by flying to Legazpi from Manila (1 hour trip, with stunning views of Mt. Mayon on the way), then taking a bus and/or jeepney for 1-3 hours, depending on where you need to go. Note, I believe you can also take an overnight bus direct to Donsol or Sorsogon City from Manila.

Whale shark season in Donsol is generally December to May…I went in April, and I saw quite a few. Please contact sir Milo Naval at Siama Hotel for information about Sorsogon tours. You can hire a boat to take you to Panumbagan Sandbar from the Pilar port, and one to take you to Subic Beach in the Matnog Tourism Office. Jeepneys to Gubat, Bulusan, and Barcelona can be taken from Sorsogon City.

Thanks so much to Glenn, Jesz, Jobeth, BM, Milo, and “Gov” for all the help exploring this fascinating region. I would love to come back someday, but since I am “officially unwelcome”, “someday” could be a long, long time:)

– Nathan Allen

Like my page to follow along with me:)  – Nathan

Related:  Masbate: The Best Tourist-Free Beaches in the Philippines

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By Nathan Allen

It’s quite surprising that I haven’t been to Bali yet, considering all the places I have been, and how much I have always wanted to explore the fascinating sights, sounds and tastes of Indonesia.

When I ask hardcore travelers where they encountered the most warm and friendly people in the world, Indonesia is always up there near the top (right alongside the Philippines, which I have been fortunate to explore quite a bit).

Yes, the hospitality of the locals is legendary, but what else about Bali makes me want to pack my bags and go?

Traditional Balinese Culture

This is the stuff adventurer dreams are made of–I imagine myself trekking through dense, steamy  jungles…with curious parrots and monkeys keeping a watchful eye on me from above.

Suddenly I reach a clearing, and am stunned to unearth some ancient carvings and ruins…

Suddenly, out of the corner of my eye, I see some shadowy figures slip through the trees. Before I know it, they emerge from the thick vines. I am surrounded. With my hands up, I try to communicate that I come in peace…progress is slow going, but eventually they realize I pose no threat. They warm up to me.

Before I know it, we are back in their village, where we begin the process of bridging two very contrasting cultures…OK, OK…so I let my imagination run wild a bit. Travelers are quite unlikely to have an experience like this in this day and age, but a boy can dream, can’t he?  Haha.

Even though the island is quite developed and touristy, from what I’ve read, there is still plenty of rich culture and heritage to explore in Bali.

The Temples

I can’t wait to photograph and explore all the temples! Some that come highly recommended: Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, Goa Gajah, and Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (Pictured here).

Do keep in mind that proper attire (sarong & sash) are usually required. These can be rented or supplied with a small donation.

Balinese Food & Drink

Like many people,  my desire for a trip to Bali was re-stoked by watching TV host and chef Anthony Bourdain fall in love with the island. I already know I love Indonesian food, with staples such as nasi goreng (stir fried rice with eggs, prawns, chilis, and vegetables) and mee goreng (the same, but with spicy noodles instead of rice).

However, I’m excited to try some Balinese specialties, such as nasi campur Bali (mixed rice) and betutu, which is a roasted poultry dish with spices.

Also on my menu is kopi Bali (local coffee), and brem, which is a Balinese version of the rice wine that is characteristic of much of Asia. I imagine these two are similar to “Barako” Coffee and “Tapuy” wine, which are their Philippine counterparts, respectively. 

The Beaches…and the Surfing

Word has gotten out about Bali’s surfing…apparently today’s spots are a bit different than the relatively unknown breaks of 20+ years ago. It’s really blown up, but I guess you can still find some glassy calm just as the early morning sun rises.

I just learned to surf in the Philippines, so I’m excited to try my luck in Bali.

From what I’ve gathered, some beaches are more crowded than others. Kuta Beach is where the party’s at, but I’m also excited to explore some lesser known beaches like Pasir Putih and Balangan. There really is so much coastline to explore, I’m excited to rent a motorbike and see as much as I can!

Yes, My Bali Adventure is Calling

Like many “digital nomads”, being based in Thailand gives me easy access to awesome destinations like Bali. The island is so centrally located–I can hop on a budget flight for $50 or less and be there within an hour or two. Not bad! I look forward to covering Bali in much more detail in the future. Stay tuned!

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

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By Nathan Allen

This is Island Life

If you’re looking to get away from the fast food chains on other more developed islands, you’ll love Siargao. While it does have a few high-end resorts like Dedon and Kalinaw, for the most part, it still maintains its simple, funky charm. The best part is that if you use a Globe wifi stick, you can get decent signal almost anywhere – and for as little as $1 per day.

The Iconic Cloud 9 Boardwalk

In Siargao, I fulfilled my dream of learning to surf…but I definitely didn’t do it at Cloud 9! This is where you’ll find some of the best surfers in the world. To give you an idea, the waves you’ll see below are nothing compared to the massive swells during the “tournament season” starting in November.

The boardwalk is a great place to watch the sunrise – and also a great place to see professional surfers doing their thing. If you want to learn, “Jacking Horse” is the best place nearby. Don’t worry, there won’t be any shortage of people asking if you would like a lesson.

Things To Do in Siargao

Aside from surfing, there are plenty of other things to experience on the island. You can check out the legendary Drunken Carabao Rides, or the infamous Jungle Party every Tuesday and Saturday. You can stroll through a white-sand beach cemetery. You can also book an island hopping tour, or a fascinating trip to Sohoton Cave.

A Slice of Local Life in General Luna

Check out the town of General Luna for a glimpse of the many fishing villages that dot the shores of the Philippines. Here you’ll find local eateries, as well as the busy market – which sells affordable fresh-caught fish. Local kids love to play at the dock each afternoon. You’ll find them jumping into the water to cool off.

Touring Siargao by Motorbike

One of the best ways to see the island is to rent a motorbike and explore it on your own. It might cost about $7.50USD a day, though you could get an even better price if you rent for many days. I took this shot during a trip to Pacifico and Tak Tak falls.

If you’re going to surf, make sure you get a bike with a rack for your surfboard. FYI, you can also rent a surfboard for about the same price…and renting for many days will get you the best price as well. Getting a ride, a bike, or a board is very easy, because people will offer everywhere you go:)

Magpupungko Tide Pool

About 45 minutes from General Luna is fascinating Magpupungko Tide Pool. This is a great place to swim and cool off. Make sure you check the tide table, because the pool is most beautiful (and safest) during low tide.

Where To Eat

My favorite pizza was at Aventino’s, which has 2 locations on the island, and is quite affordable. Many tourists love to eat at Mama’s Grill, which is a no-frills eatery serving great BBQ pork, chicken and fish. Check out Bravo Surf Resort for excellent Spanish Tapas.

If you want to get away from the crowds and eat like a local, check out Wow Siargao or Kayaha Grill…both closer to Cloud 9 on the way from General Luna (they are on the right, but are easy to miss. You might want to ask a local). If you like sushi, you MUST try the Filipino version called Kinilaw. Kayaha Grill had the best I’ve ever tasted, and it’s just $2.50 a plate!

Siargao Hotels

Buddha’s Surf Resort – Located about halfway between General Luna and Cloud 9, Buddha has a great vibe, very friendly staff, and excellent food. Breakfast comes with the room, and I quite enjoyed it. Speaking of my room, I enjoyed the flat screen TV loaded with movies, and my own personal water dispenser…nice touches! Check Buddha’s Surf Resort rates.

Bravo Beach Resort – This is one of my favorite places to chill out and meet some great people. For me, the music and ambience were just right.  The owner is Spanish, as is the chef. You can find excellent tapas here, and don’t forget to wake up early for sunrise on the beach!  Check Bravo Beach Resort rates

Harana Surf Resort – You’ll find Harana tucked away about 1 km before you get to Cloud 9. I loved the striking architecture – traditional meets modern. Run by 2 Texas surfers who wanted to return to their roots in the Philippines. Great guys, and they host a very popular jam session on Saturday nights. Try the nipa wine! Check Harana rates.

Check out more Siargao hotels HERE.

Budget Options For Backpackers

There is a super cheap Dormitel directly across from Cloud 9. I believe there is one aircon room downstairs, and 8 bunk beds upstairs. Jing’s Place and Paglaom Hostel are both affordable options as well. They are located near Kermit’s, which is a bit more pricey and almost always booked up. Like so many others, you may end up wanting to stay on the island long term. Go to Jacking Horse and ask around for the best monthly rates.

There’s Just Something About Siargao…

Everybody who has visited Siargao seems to absolutely love it, but you won’t really understand why until you’ve experienced it for yourself. Put simply, the island has a great vibe. Let’s hope that it stays this way for many years to come!

Enjoy.

– Nathan Allen

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share the island love!

Like my page to follow along with me:)  – Nathan

Goodbye, Gopro…I Finally Review the TG-4 Underwater Camera in the Philippines

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Words & Photos By Nathan Allen

As I sat on the beach in Caramoan, I gazed across the water to the island of Catanduanes…I wasn’t sure how I would get there, but I knew I had to explore it. Suddenly, I noticed some tourists relaxing nearby. I started up a conversation with them, and realized that they had come all the way from Canada.

After a while, I learned that after their vacation in Caramoan, they were taking a speedboat across the water to Catanduanes. Not only that, but amazingly, they knew a friend of mine from Manila – she grew up in Catanduanes! Next thing you know, I’m hitching a ride on a thrilling speedboat.

I will never forget the motorbike trip I took around the “enchanted” island of Siquijor in 2013.

Well, I was excited about recreating that trip on the rugged island of Catanduanes. Photo adventures like these are a big part of why I came to the Philippines in the first place!

What I didn’t realize is that this island is much, much bigger than Siquijor. My 2 day trip ended up taking 5, and I’ll never forget it!

Exploring Catanduanes

A part of the Bicol region in the eastern Philippines, Catanduanes used to be part of Albay, and is said to be named after the “tandu” or giant click beetles that can be found flying around the area at night.

I put my feelers out to my friends and managed to locate a motorbike I could borrow on arrival. Catanduanes is rugged; there are still remote sections with no paved roads, and for me, it made my journey that much more exciting. My trip began in San Andres…

Sto. Domingo River

Sto. Domingo River is also known as Pajo River, and is a place where you can find floating huts and local children swimming in the fresh water. The water was awarded cleanest in Bicol back in 1999. I snapped this photo from a bridge that crosses over the river.

You don’t hear much about the waterfalls of Catanduanes, but when I looked at the tourist map, I could see that they were EVERYWHERE! I wanted to visit all of them, but there really were too many.

Hicming Falls

Hicming Falls isn’t too well known, but it was quite impressive! You can reach it via a short hike from the village of Hicming, near Sto. Domingo.

Trike drivers may be able to take you there. This brief, beautiful hike up a scenic creek bed will reward you with a gushing, 3-tier waterfall at the end.

There are many smaller falls and tranquil pools on the way up…This really was one of my favorite waterfalls in Catanduanes, and I’m surprised it’s not more publicized.

I guess the lack of crowds and development is what I liked most about it, though. For now, hopefully these falls can remain our little secret…

Luyang Cave in San Andres

Just off the highway is impressive Luyang Cave(see photo). This vast, limestone cave is quite accessible, and fascinating to explore. You can bring your own flashlight and do a DIY walkthrough tour, but just be careful, because the path can be very slippery.

There is a tragic story attached to Luyang Cave. Reportedly, all the locals hid in the cave when the Moro invaders arrived. They would carefully send a woman out to fetch water when needed, but eventually her luck ran out. She was spotted returning to the cave, and she gave away their hiding spot.

Knowing that they would all meet their demise at the hands of the Moros, the locals quickly piled up sticks and branches at the entrance to the cave.

When they realized that wasn’t enough to protect themselves, as a last resort, they lit the branches on fire…hoping that the flames would deter the pirates.

Sadly, the wind changed directions, and filled their cave with thick, black smoke. They could not breathe, and there were no survivors.

Mamangal Beach

Mamangal Beach, can be found in barangay Balite, Virac. It’s one of the nicest beaches I came across in Catanduanes. However, to be honest, I was more focused on waterfalls than beaches, so keep that in mind:) Roads are a bit rough to get here, and there is an entry fee upon arrival. Many thanks to Che and the Gurrobat family for the assistance getting here! Che’s blog is called Backpacking Pilipinas.

From my research, some other popular beaches are Twin Rocks Resort Beach, Marilima Beach, Batag Beach…all within Virac. Sakahon Beach is nice as well, in Bato.

For a real off-the-beaten-path Catanduanes adventure (and the most stunning beach of all), check my Palumbanes Island Blog.

Snorkeling at Agojo Marine Park and Sanctuary

I went exactly where they told me to and explored for over an hour. Unfortunately there wasn’t much to see. After being protected for 20 years, there should be much more coral regrowth here. It’s mostly dead still, and there aren’t a whole lot of fish. Either people are sneaking in to do dynamite / cyanide fishing still, or somehow there are other environmental factors at work.

The best part of Agojo for me was actually the fascinating mangrove trees, as you can see pictured here..

I was told that Agojo was the best place to snorkel and see corals in Catanduanes…sadly, this was not my experience. The bantay dagat (security guards for the marine life)  were not able to take me out in the boat, because it was broken. However, they told me I could just swim out a few hundred yards in the shallow water to gosnorkeling. Btw, if you are curious, I took these photos with my TG4 underwater camera.

Note: The photo of this beautiful coral reef was actually taken in Catanduanes also, but it was taken north of Agojo, at a random (unprotected) spot I pulled my motorbike over and decided to explore.

I really was snorkeling in the middle of nowhere, and I guess that explains why there were still corals and fish.

I hope the Local Government Units will look into this, because Catanduanes has some beautiful corals and marine life that could really draw tourists if preserved and protected.

Hiyop Point – Pandan

In the far northwest part of the island, you can find the rolling green hills and vistas of Hiyop Point. Below are more various photos from my ride along the west side of the island.

Carangyan Resort is near here, but it’s a bit pricey for being so provincial. The couple who runs it is very nice, and the food is quite good, though. It might be worth stopping by for lunch, if nothing else.

One thing I loved seeing around Catanduanes was all the colorful buildings and churches…this pink church was a first for me!

(continued below)

Catanduanes is known for its production of Tiger Grass, or Sugbo, as it is known locally. It’s used to make brooms. Also produced here is the strong natural fiber called Abaca, (Manila Hemp).

“The Happy Island”

Catanduanes was most memorable to me because of the hospitality of the people I met along the way. Known as “The Happy Island”, I felt it from the moment I arrived.

Due to the plenty of roadside photo breaks and rough roads, my trip took longer than expected, and I was forced to spend an unplanned night in barangay Tokio, Pandan. A local introduced me to the barangay captain, a very nice lady by the name of Mrs. Bernacer.

After arranging a local guide to bring me to the nearby waterfall for a swim (see above), Mrs. Bernacer was so kind to prepare a dinner for me. Her family even made room in their home, so that I could rest before continuing my journey in the morning! Incredibly hospitable, and I appreciated it.

I also stopped at the School of Fisheries in Caramoran. I met many friendly people there.

Snorkeling in Soboc, Viga

What an unexpected surprise! There are some fascinating coral formations underwater there in Soboc. I was so happy to see that much of it has been preserved.

I saw quite a few clownfish, a lionfish, and a variety of other marine life such as colorful clams and urchins. Remember to bring your own snorkel, mask, and fins! As always, I used my Olympus TG-4 underwater camera.

Big thanks to my local guide Mathew Barceta, and also to a local mechanic – kuya Rey. My motorbike was having problems when I arrived, and he quickly repaired it for only the cost of parts! Kuya Rey and the rest of the guys there were very kind. I do hope to return to Catanduanes someday and repay their kindness.

Viga and Bagamanok – The Countryside

This was particularly beautiful stretch of the trip. I loved seeing the town marker they put up in Bagamanok – reminiscent of the Holywood sign:) I also came across a beautiful cemetery where I stopped and took some photos. The weather was just perfect.

I snapped this photo of a few carabaos (water buffaloes) cooling off in a creek.

If you’re going north to Viga from Virac (via the central route), check out Cathy’s Spring Resortalong the way.

There is a famous rock formation here near the beach. It’s called “Boto ni Kurakog“, which translates to “Kurakog’s penis“. Yes, you read that correctly.

Legend says that a sleeping giant on the beach was washed out to sea. Now he rests underwater on his back, with 5 meters of his…ummm…”manhood” rising up out of the water. Catanduanes…the “happy island” indeed. Haha.

Nahulugan Falls

Nahulugan Falls is a great place to take pictures, and very much worth the visit! You can take a trike all the way there, unlike Hicming Falls, where you have to hike a bit.

Nahulugan is in the town of Gigmoto, where I found a lot of really good people.

First, I stopped to leave my things at the local police department, because I thought I needed to hike to get to the falls, and my bag is quite heavy.

The officers were very friendly, and I really got the sense that I could trust them. I was right!

Unfortunately, on the way to the falls, my motorbike broke down once again. I was far from any ATM, and I wasn’t sure what to do.

Eventually a very nice man named Manny came to my aid, and not only took me to Nahulugan Falls, but also helped me get my motorbike repaired afterward…without asking for anything in return.

Kuya Manny and family, if you’re reading this, thanks for helping me in my time of need! Proving yet again that Catanduanes really is the “happy” and friendly island…

Balacay Point

Further south in Baras, I came across Balacay Point. Here you can find iconic, sweeping views of the coastline and small islands of Catanduanes & Pacific Ocean. Just be careful on the rocky dirt road going up…it was quite rough when I was there…the vista at the top is worth it, though!

Surfing in Puraran – Baras

Catanduanes is home to Bicol’s most famous surf spot, known as Puraran. This is a great place to learn, or just relax and enjoy the beach. I didn’t try surfing here, but I hope to learn soon! Balacay Point is only a few kilometers from here, and you can see Puraran Beach from the viewpoint.

Bato Church

St. John the Baptist Church can be found in the town of Bato. It is also known as “Bato Church“. Can you believe it was originally built from wood in the late 1500s? Rebuilding with stone materials began in 1830. The church has withstood the test of time ever since.

Maribina Falls

Nearby Maribina Falls (also in Bato) is the most well known and accessible of all the waterfalls on the island.

This is a great place to swim, relax, or have a picnic.

This mulit-tiered waterfall gets its name from the 2 surrounding neighborhoods, orbarangays:

The combination of Marinawa andBinanwahan = “Maribina”.

Virac Cathedral

Virac Cathedral is also known as “the Roman Catholic Diocese of Virac”.

It is located right in the heart of Virac, and is one of the most prominent landmarks.

Virac Cathedral is only a few decades old, but it was built over an older parish.

Virac is the largest city and capital of Catanduanes. I loved the vibrant energy here.

On a Friday night, I wandered over to the plaza and found many kids practicing everything from skateboarding, to dance routines, to their marching band songs.

I’m glad the city is supportive of this.

I didn’t get to try many restaurants in Virac, but I did find a pizza place that I LOVED! It’s called “Carrie’s Pizza“, and it really is a great value. The pizza was quite good for the price, and the service can’t be beat. Check it out!

Hotels & Guest Houses

Marem Pension House, Virac  – A beautiful and very affordable place to stay.  It has been operating for years, and is quite well maintained.  You can explore options at Marem Pension House HERE

Rackdell Inn, Virac – Also good for the budget-minded, and close to Jollibee! Haha. +63 908 885 0569

Catanduanes Midtown Inn (Virac)  – For a bit more money…you can take a big step up with the Midtown Inn. Still a great value! You can explore options at Catanduanes Midtown Inn HERE

Pacific Surfer’s Paradise Beach Resort, Puraran – This was my favorite option in Puraran. Service was great + accommodations / food were a good value. You can explore options atPacific Surfer’s Paradise Beach Resort HERE

More options HERE

How To Get To Catanduanes

The island can be reached by direct flight to from Manila to Virac, or overnight bus to Tabaco Port, where you can catch a 3 hour ferry to Virac. Once there, you should be able to take a bus to Puraran and other destinations. If not, you may have to rent a trike or van for the whole day, and it could be quite pricey.

Big thanks to Carmel Bonifacio and the Catanduanes tourism office in Virac! The tourism brochures I was provided with were well-designed, very professional, and quite useful. The museum above the office is worth seeing, too! Many thanks to Mayleine Olfindo, and all the good, humble people of “The Happy Island”! Thanks for reminding me why I fell in love with the Philippines in the first place.

Hope you enjoyed my photos & adventure.

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Like my page to follow along with me:)  – Nathan

I use Agoda to book my rooms online, check it out below! – Nathan Allen

Related blogs:

Palumbanes Islands – The Grand Adventure Nobody’s Talking About

Life Goals: Island-Hopping in Caramoan

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