"My view the day after"
The evening was getting deeper, but it was all that I needed - paying off my sleep debts. Recharging my body of what it missed - sleep and relaxation.
Engaged in Malapascua Island
The last time I visited Malapascua Island was almost a decade ago. During the pandemic, I didn't bother to consider the island on my bucket list. Well, it didn't cross my mind except if I could do an outreach program or mentorship, but definitely, not for leisure. "The Long White Beach"The moment I arrived on the island, I was introduced to my co-teacher's relatives. It was a funny situation that her relatives had mistakenly identified me as their nephew's partner. I instantly got engaged in Malapascua Island without my knowing. It was the talk over dinner. It was the talk over their little sitio. "Another spot to meditate"
Manilyn was laughing. She enjoyed looking at me, cringing with disbelief and unexplained expression. So, when I had the chance to talk, I corrected the information. I was only their for a visit and not to be engaged.
The Malapascua I didn't Expect
So much has changed in Malapascua Island! "Ruins at the top of the hill"
The port was the first thing you would notice if you had visited the island some years ago. Aside from the development of its infrastructure, I noticed the silence. I admired the quietness of the island. I could easily count by my fingers the number of local tourists. It paved way for more rejuvenating experience. It made the island breathe. "This couple is tying the know this December."
More than I could ever imagine was the place Manilyn took me. It was not the usual destination for tourists. It was a place only known to locals. It was a great rendezvous of pristine, powdery and white sand, and turquoise water. It was surreal! "Here is another sweet pose from them."
I stood at the beach, unable to move. I quenched by its sight - enough for me to admire and vividly paint in my memory. "Tinuod ni?" was my repetitive remark. I couldn't just believe what I saw because it was a beach paradise. It was more than I could ask for - a vacation that I longed for. The beach, the sun, and the tranquility of the place are the perfect ingredients for recharging one's energy.
Besides the picturesque beaches, I appreciated the fresh catch of fish and other shellfish. Another wonderful thing that happened to me was to savor fresh fish soup especially cooked by Manilyn's mother. I felt at home, really. I felt I belonged to their family. This realization dawned on me that the people and their warm smile and welcome made the place worth visiting. Thus, Malapascua Island is something I would want to visit again and again. My co-teacher's loving family made an impact on my short vacation.
Getting There and Away 1. From the north bus terminal, you could opt to take a van for Php300 pesos going to Maya Port. Bus fare is at Php150 pesos. 2. There are a lot of budget inns, transient homes, or hotels on the island, ranging from Php350 and up. Please book ahead to avoid inconveniences. 3. From Maya port, you need to pay Php75 pesos for the Environmental Fee and a boat fee of Php120 pesos. 4. Finally, be with the locals. It is more fun, and you've got to visit places and hidden beaches not commonly introduced to the tourist. But be careful, though! 5. Be friendly! |
I so envy you, Angel, with your travels. Hope that I can also visit Malapascua in the future. I've heard and seen a lot of wonderful things about the place. Kudos to the tips on how to get there as a commuter.
ReplyDeleteI want to revisit Malapascua, too. The last time I visited, I was with my Carebears friends, and it felt like an eternity ago. Hahaha. I am happy that you were able to take a break from your endeavors, Anj. <3 Self-care is not selfish afterall.
ReplyDeleteI never been to Malaspascua but I have heard a lot of goof things about the island. I might swing by this coming summer. Thanks for reminding of this island up north.
ReplyDeleteWow, Ms Angel, you have done so much travelling despite the pandemic. I have never been to Madagascar, just its neighbor Bantayan Island. But I would love to visit this beautiful place.
ReplyDeleteOh my, Malapascua has never lost its beauty and charm and I'm very happy :) Your pictures give life to my wandering- traveller soul
ReplyDeleteWow! I've been to Malapascua way back highschool and it was still a virgin island ,the electric supply isn't that enough for the locals. But I have enjoyed reading your blog about Malapascua Ms. Angel. Good to know there were lots of changes in the island.
ReplyDeleteIt's been a while since I've been to Malapascua Island. I'm glad to see that the beauty of the island remained relatively intact. :)
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