On our last day, we explored the northern part of Batan Island. We wanted to make the most on our remaining day but the van we rented broke so we hired another one. It took us more than an hour to rent an old van but it was very reliable.
Since it was already close to noon, our tour guide suggested we eat lunch first. We had a hearty lunch which included a local cuisine – coconut crab. It was the first time that I’ve seen such a huge crab. We also had coconut crab soup, fried fish, and veggies.
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| Coconut crab - it's a giant crab! |
Fountain of Youth
We trekked on the rocky shoreline to get to the fountain. I’m used to hiking/trekking but walking on a rocky surface was quite hard. We let ourselves stop and rest for a while and appreciate the view of the sea.
We trekked on the rocky shoreline to get to the fountain. I’m used to hiking/trekking but walking on a rocky surface was quite hard. We let ourselves stop and rest for a while and appreciate the view of the sea.
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| Beautiful day at the beach |
The Fountain of Youth has a small man-made waterfall which flows into an infinity pool. The water was cool and the view from the pool was very refreshing. It was believed that bathing in the fountain would give you a youthful glow.
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| Quick dip in the pool |
Marlboro Country
The Marlboro Country as the name suggests is known for green luscious hills where horses feed on the grass. But nowadays cows grazed on the grass because they’re easier to tend. From where we were standing, the view is simply stunning. Fundacion Pacita can be seen and the blue sea sparkles under the bright sun. The place is perfect for picnics and moments when you want to ponder.
The Marlboro Country as the name suggests is known for green luscious hills where horses feed on the grass. But nowadays cows grazed on the grass because they’re easier to tend. From where we were standing, the view is simply stunning. Fundacion Pacita can be seen and the blue sea sparkles under the bright sun. The place is perfect for picnics and moments when you want to ponder.
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| You know it's Marlboro country |
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| Jumpology |
Ivana Town
Last stop in our itinerary is Ivana town. While in Ivana, we visited the oldest Ivatan woman. We had a photo op and chatted for a few minutes with Lola.
Last stop in our itinerary is Ivana town. While in Ivana, we visited the oldest Ivatan woman. We had a photo op and chatted for a few minutes with Lola.
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| Photo op with Lola from Ivana |
Honesty Coffee Shop
As the name suggests, honesty is valued in this establishment. There are no attendants in the store. The rule is simple. If you’d like to buy something, help yourself out, list the item in the notebook, and place your money in the wooden cash box. Make sure you pay the exact amount since no one will give you a change. It really pays to be honest. No one looks after the store since it’s expected that everyone is honest.
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| Honesty is the best policy. |
We also biked for a few minutes outside, well at least my friends did. I tried but I can’t. hehe Biking is a mode of transportation in Batanes as well as a famous outdoor activity.
Mahatao Church
On our way back to Basco, we passed by Mahatao Church and we met the parish priest. Churches in Batanes have some resemblance and their structures are very well-preserved judging on their exterior and interior architectural designs.
On our way back to Basco, we passed by Mahatao Church and we met the parish priest. Churches in Batanes have some resemblance and their structures are very well-preserved judging on their exterior and interior architectural designs.
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| Mahatao Church at sundown |
I hope it won't be long til I'm back in Batanes.
Dios Mamajes Batanes!
Dios Mamajes Batanes!
