Think of a province in the entire Philippines that most local tourist is having a hard time to visit, and you find one of the most elusive - the Batanes Islands.
“The province that almost everywhere is a tourist spot.”
The Batanes Group of Islands is located at the northernmost tip of Philippines with the 3 main islands of Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat - and our goal is to experience being in Batan and Sabtang Islands.
Manila International Airport Terminal 2.
From Angeles City via a point-to-point bus from SM Clark, we arrived early in Manila International Airport Terminal 2.
The Philippine Airlines flight PR 2932 bound for Basco scheduled to take off by 0530H or earlier.
Roaming-around Batanes on a rented scooter for 6 days, we packed light bringing only 2 bags and sling bags with us.
Our plan is to roam-around Basco, then on to Sabtang Island for the 1st day, rides the entire Sabtang for the entire 2nd day, then back to Batan Island to roam-around Ivana, Uyugan, Mahatao, and Basco for 3 more days - before heading back to Clark on the 6th day.
1st Day: Manila, to Basco, to Ivana, then to Sabtang Island.
October 28, 2023, Saturday (wearing the Pagudpod red sandos)
Onboard Flight PR2932 bound for Basco, Batanes.
Boarding a plane is very addictive (trust me..!), and thinking this was the moment we waited for 2 and a half years when our booked flight was cancelled due to the pandemic.
After about an hour, you will see Basco on your right side, and the Vayang Rolling Hills is seen closer down below.
It's the road that was built just for the scenery - in fact, it leads only to a view deck overlooking the Chadpidan Boulder Beach.
Basco Airport, Batanes.
Same as most of the short runways in the Philippines such as in Caticlan (1.8km), Busuanga (1.2km), etc., Basco Airport is very short with only 1.5km runway.
The Dehavilland Dash 8 200 39-seater turboprop airplane operated by Philippine Air Lines is a very trusted plane that's capable of landing in short runways.
Reaching Basco, Batanes was totally a dream come true for us...!
Basco Town, Batan, Batanes.
From the airport, we simply walk as if we were locals of Batanes - we had to take the low-profile approach by blending in with the locals.
Chunks of very large fish and newly slaughtered meat was in every corner of Basco during the morning.
Stone houses were everywhere in Basco, Batanes - the more modern ones were built with riveted roof sheets.
After a short rest and a quick breakfast (of lugaw and coffee) in Remolino's Canteen, we looked for the scooter rental shop.
We rented a Yamaha Mio Gear for 4,500 pesos in 6 days of use - that's a hefty 750 pesos per day.
Cathedral of Our Lady of Immaculate Concepcion, Basco, Batanes.
We visited first and ask for guidance from God the Cathedral of Our Lady of Immaculate Concepcion, in Basco.
It is speculated that the image of the Immaculate Conception in the church was brought to Batanes during the 1783 expedition.
With the establishment of Basco town on June 26, 1783, came the evangelical mission headed by Dominican Fathers Bartholome Artiguez and Baltazar Calderon.
The first church was built in this site was made of cogon and wood, and after centuries, the faithful made it majestic even from afar.
Vayang Rolling Hills, Basco, Batanes.
Seeing Vayang Rolling Hills for the first time, it was so amazing despite the rain.
There on top of the scenic road, it was easy to tell why Batanes is the top-notch destination in the Philippines.
It feels like we were all alone there - seldom you can meet other tourists - and that's how Batanes made the big difference to other provinces.
There is nothing like this in the entire Philippines - you have to see and experience this place even once in your lifetime.
Basco Lighthouse, Basco, Batanes.
Going down the hills, we visited the nearby Basco Lighthouse.
This was the first of the 3 lighthouses built in Batanes proposed by former Congressman Florencio Abad, situated on Naidi Hills, northwest of Basco - the other 2 were in Mahatao and in Sabtang.
Basco lighthouse is the important navigation guide to enter safely the Pier of Basco located just below the hills.
Valugan Boulder Beach, Basco, Batanes.
Riding from the lighthouse down to Valugan Boulder Beach (after passing the Basco Airport) was just 4km away.
The Valugan Boulder Beach is a 3km beach with mostly rocks located along the coast of Batan Island.
We only see it in pictures on the internet - but now we conquered it..!
Mahatao, Batanes.
We then headed down to Ivana to catch the boat to Sabtang Island - passing here in Mahatao.
In the seaside curving roads in Mahatao to Ivana, the scenery will force you to stop and take photos.
You need to learn to soak in wet when touring Batanes because the rain and sun competes all day.
It was there in Mahatao that you need to "blow your horn" when in very tight blind corners.
Ivana, Batanes.
The town of Ivana is the oldest in Batanes - it was founded in 1686 and established as a unit of government in 1785.
Historically, Ivana was the first landing place of the missionaries and Spanish government officials when the Spanish government.
It was here where the Katipuneros landed on 19 September 1898, after the Spanish government decided to annex the Batanes group of Islands in 1783.
St. Joseph the Worker, Ivana, Batanes.
One of the heritage churches of Batanes is the San Jose el Obrero - built by Dominican friars in the late 1800s.
Just in front of Radiwan Port, in Ivana, the church has a very antique feel to it and also is very serene.
Ivana Lighthouse, Ivana, Batanes.
One of the newest lighthouses in Batanes, the Ivana Lighthouse is just on the other side of the road beside the port.
Although it was built a few meters above the sea level, the view was super imposing when seen from a distance.
Its scenic view was awesome when the lighthouse was contrasting with the seawater barriers even from the slowly departing boat from the port.
The Tricycle in Batanes.
The tricycle in Batanes (and in particular in Sabtang Island) is quiet amazing - it's made of materials that will bend in with the Ivatan heritage houses in Chavayan, Sabtang, Batanes.
Ivatans see to it that their heritage houses from the old days is always blended with what they have.
Radiwan Port, Ivana, Batanes.
In the port, the crew of M/B Thomas III were busy loading supplies, tricycle, and scooters on board.
The crew men do this on a daily basis, safely securing motorcycles in front of the boat.
The people in Sabtang normally bring their motorcycles with them when going to Basco.
The fee for boarding a motorcycle was surprisingly cheap - I think, less than 200 pesos only.
We met Ms. Ericka Alasco, a member of the graduating class in Culinary Arts from Batanes State Colleges - in between us was Willie Mark Agbayani, a member of the regional mobile police force going to Sabtang to augment the force.
Nearing the San Vicente Port, the feeling was very thrilling - we do not expect anything.
Seeing Sabtang Lighthouse and San Vicente Port for the first time, we were so grateful for this getaway.
San Vincente Port, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
This was the island we only see in goggle maps during our planning stage - the feeling was undeniably awesome.
This port will lead us to one of the most epic places in the entire Philippines - the Nakabuang Arch, in Morong Beach.
Base on many write ups and a movie filmed in Batanes, as Coco Martin uttered,
"Ang Batanes hindi gino-goggle, dapat ini-experience..."
To our delight that on the 1st day, we were in Malakdang, one of the 6 towns in Sabtang Island.
We ride a bus, a plane, a scooter, and a boat - just to set foot in this amazing island of Sabtang, in Batanes.
It took us about 16 hours of travel to be here and experience Batanes.
Sabtang Lighthouse, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
Just within a few meters above us, the Sabtang Lighthouse was so beautiful towering on top of a hill near the sea.
This lighthouse is one of the island's most iconic landmarks beckoning boat captains to safely navigate the seas.
It is the first man-made edifice structure in Sabtang that welcomes guests upon their arrival.
Pananayan Penhouse, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
One of the best places to stay in Sabtang is in Pananayan Pension House - trust me on that.
Owned by the very hospitable Sir Pedro "Pinding" Elesterio and Ma'am Wilfa Elesterio - the location was so unbelievable beside the cliff where the Sabtang lighthouse was towering firmly.
The warmest welcome was unexpected - they treat us as family and their own - we were immediately served with freshly cooked fried fish and their local rice for our early dinner.
The nearby Thaquia's sari-sari store provided us easy access to all the stuffs that we need - and the owner with their kids was very hospitable too.
It was nearing the local barangay election - there were no tarpaulin, posters, or sample ballots in Batanes - they were all relatives in the island - so the campaign was simply a personal favor - no expenses nor vote buying.
We drink beers and eat chips to rest, celebrate, and silently discuss our plans for tomorrow looping the Sabtang Island.
This rented Yamaha Mio Gear was so stable and fun to ride - it deserves the rest on its first night with us.
The first night was very relaxing because outside, the rain poured down heavily.
2nd Day: Roaming-around Sabtang Island.
October 29, 2023, Sunday (wearing the Official Philippine Loop Conqueror's shirts)
The 1st morning in Malakdang, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
On the first morning, if not to the strong waves, the beach nearby entices us to swim and get wet.
Elesterio family embraced us to eat the same food with them while we were there - warmly treated as part of the family.
In Malakdang and very near the hotel, you can still see some old houses built from the past.
The ancestral house of Ma'am Wilfa was still standing strong nearby amidst many heavy typhoons passed the Batanes Islands.
San Vicente Ferrer Church, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
A church full of historical accounts across the port of Sabtang, dedicated to San Vicente Ferrer - known for his religious poverty and austerity, including perpetual fasting, and was believed to have the gift of miracles.
The local residents were forced to transfer to Ivana after the revolt of Aman Danga in 1791 - then the Dominicans built a chapel in 1785.
The first church was built was made of limestone by Padre Antonio Vicente in 1844 - and rebuilt in 1956 by Padre Gumersindo Hernandez, after a strong typhoon destroyed the bell tower.
Nakabuang Arch @ Morong Beach, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
Formed by the wind, the sea, and the sun, this natural wonder is not to be missed when in Batanes - you never entirely visited Batanes if you never been in Nakabuang Arch.
This place is my top choice when in Batanes - there's no manmade structure aside from the cemented road leading to the sands of Morong Beach - it's very rare to have other tourist around - it's very calm there - and the serenity was totally unmatched...!
The arch's name "Nakabuang" translates to "it can make you crazy..." - so please visit Batanes and find out yourselves - we don't want to be the biggest spoiler in your travels and adventures.
Iceman's Rock, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
Located in a very unexpected location where the stiff climb ends in a sharp curve that plunges down to the other side of the mountain road, this unmarked rock has an amazing view down below.
We named it the "Iceman's Rock" and mark it in the goggle map... LoLz
The scenery up there was so thrilling - and this rock becomes the 2nd Iceman's Rock - the other one is in Jomalig Island.
Twin Rock, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
The view of the twisted road will make you stop and think twice - seeing the towering rocks from afar.
It feels like the road ahead is being crumpled by the opposing rocks - it is called the Twin Rocks.
Passing the point where the rocks were about to meet, the cemented road was indeed feels crumpled - so slow down.
Sumnanga, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
After less than 2 kilometers, we reach the fishing village of Sumnanga - there you can buy newly catch fish of many varieties.
There you will still see the traditional houses of Ivatans using adobe rocks filled with tartar and partly covered with mousse grass.
It was a totally brandnew experience being in Sumnanga because there was nothing like it in the Philippines - only in Batanes.
This road that seems going to heaven is the main road going to Duvek Bay - we did not dare to pass thru it - we chose the narrow roads navigating between houses - thanks for riding a small scooter.
Duvek Bay, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
Duvek is pronounced as "De-Buk" by the locals, and it is the dead end of the west road all the way from Malakdang.
Duvek Bay is going to be connected to Chavayan in the near future - via the mountain road already being built in Chavayan side.
If Duvek Bay and Chavayan connects through a mountain road, we can completely loop Sabtang island in lesser time.
The endangered coconut crab locally called "Tatus".
The coconut crab (Birgus latro) is a delicacy in Batanes. It is the world's largest invertebrate which is already on the endangered list and are only allowed to be consumed locally.
Believe me, it is also not that delicious compared to the lobsters in Looc Island and in Coron, Palawan, and the crabs from all over the Philippines - so don't mind trying.
There is NO for sale Tatus in Batanes (unless it's a gift) and it's more fun watching it in person crawling back to its den.
The Migratory Birds in Duvek Bay.
Thousands of raptors and other migratory birds pass by Duvek Bay and most of them stayed or caught by locals as pets or for their own consumptions.
It was said that the sun in Duvek Bay was almost completely covered by migrating birds when they arrived and when they leave Batanes Islands.
Back to Pananayan Pension House for Late Lunch.
Witnessing again the scenic view from Duvek Bay and back to Malakdang, were rushing for our very late lunch,
Arriving past 2pm, Elesterio family was done with their lunch - but they reserved us our food for lunch.
We were served with Luñis (an Ivatan dish simply made with pork cooked with rock salt and fried) best served with turmeric rice, slices of fish meat (postas) cooked in coconut milk with garlic, and a hot soup with snow cabbage and bits of pork.
After enjoying our late lunch and rested for less than an hour, we took the journey down to the southeast of Sabtang Island.
Chamantad-Tiñan Viewpoint.
A great vantage point for the Chamantad Cove, this viewpoint with rock formations, the cliffs, and the breaking waves below will totally bring you joy and peace.
The breeze of air coming from the sea was so awesome to breath - it will not disappoint you visiting Sabtang.
Indeed, you will never regret going to Batanes for these unbelievable moments,
Magastos pero sulit...!
Chavayan, Sabtang Island, Batanes.
This side of the road above will give you a glimpse of what's ahead - a village near the beach with huge volcanic rocks is very near.
It was a wonderful feeling seeing the Savidug stone houses in Chavayan - the people in the village (and most in Sabtang) were able to keep their stone houses influenced by the environmental condition of Batanes.
We rented the traditional clothing of Ivatans in Chavayan - Gagay wearing the Vakul (traditional for women) and me wearing the Kanayi (a vest for men), combined with Salakot - used to protect Ivatans from heat or cold weather.
Surprisingly, the village of Chavayan has a drama theater, a chapel (Sta. Rosa de Lima), an elementary school, and a fish port.
We're back in Malakdang by 6pm and we totally enjoyed the one full day of smooth rides and roaming-around the entire Sabtang Island, covering both up then down to the west roads, and down to the east roads.
3rd Day: Sabtang to South of Batan Island, then back to Basco.
October 30, 2024, Monday (wearing the custom Philippine Loop blue-white-red shirts)
Leaving Sabtang Island.
The honesty of Ivatans were so infectious - we proceeded to pay the environmental fee that helps the island's cleanliness and local operation - because we arrived on Saturday and there was no one to pay and issue us the receipts.
After paying, we found these chairs beside the waiting area - it's the first time we saw chairs of this materials was made.
It was a bit hard to leave Sabtang too soon, but we have to keep moving and see other places in Batan mainland Batanes.
The loading on the boat started - beginning with the scooters, and then the passengers went onboard.
To our surprise, Ms. Ericka Alasco was also there on the boat again, and she's going back to Basco for her studies.
We were stoked by how beautiful and serene Sabtang is - it was all worth our time and resources.
The boat crewmen were setting fish lines while the boat was on its way back to the Port of Radiwan - sometimes they were able to catch large yellow fin tunas for simply trailing fishing nylon ropes with bait and hook.
Safely reaching the Port of Radiwan, the boat crewmen unloaded easily the scooter that we rented - the Yamaha Mio Gear.
Upon leaving the port when rain starts to pour again, we have left with little fuel from Sabtang - so we refill gas by the bottles before can move again - little that we know, we were a feet away from the House of Dakay and the Spanish Bridge of San Jose - we miss those spots.
The Honesty Coffee Shop, Ivana, Batanes.
Located just outside of the port in the main road, the concept of self-service and trust in this coffee shop is so refreshing.
A true testament to the honesty of the Ivatan people, you can make your own coffee, grab a snack by serving your own.
There's a souvenir shop with lots of Batanes shirts, bags, and other goodies and items.
Just leave your exact payment in the box - if you have large bill/s, that becomes the little discomfort though.
You can cross the road and look for stores that will exchange for small bills - because no one will give you change there.
Uyugan, Batanes.
Soaking in wet, we reach Uyugan - a 5th-class town in the southern-most tip of Batan Island.
About 2 kilometers after passing the town, on top of the mountainous zigzag road is the "I ❤️Uyugan" marker.
We were so delighted up there - again, no one was there - only us - and that makes the feeling of total freedom so instantaneous...!
The road was so wet that riding a small scooter makes the journey a bit dangerous - passing the town of Itbud and part of Imnajbu, we were not able to bring out gadgets to take more photos as the rain intensified.
Rakuh A Payaman, Mahatao, Batanes.
Arriving in one of the best spot in the south of Batanes that's part of Mahatao in the east, this awesome spot affectionately called the Marlboro Hills.
A garden with lots of flowers and fruit trees will welcome you there - these will refresh you from the thrilling rides in the zigzag mountain roads.
There was kubo for paying fees, a staging area for tour guides for those that arranged their tours in packages.
There is a restaurant with pre-ordered food by the travel agents, beside the stoned path leading to the tip of the mountain overlooking Rakuh-a-idi Beach.
Unfortunately for us, the rain was strong enough for the drone to safely fly - and the fog was so enormously covering the magnificent view - thankfully, we still have 3 more days to spare.
We tried to look for a place to stay in Mahatao town but the Farmer's Guest House caretaker was nowhere in the area - so headed back to Basco for about 6 kilometers away.
Mahatao Lighthouse, Mahatao, Batanes.
Marked as Bubusan Lighthouse in Goggle maps, this lighthouse in Mahatao's western side is hard to miss when coming from the south of Batan.
This vantage point has awesome scenic seaside view, a few meters away from the Mahatao Shelter Port.
Hillside Stone Lodge, Mahatao, Batanes.
After 2 kilometers from Busbusan Lighthouse was a lodge made of stones towering on the right side of the cliff.
A garden full of flora and fauna, the steps to the stone house has really some kind of feeling.
We were not sure if this lodge is not accepting walk-in's because there was no one there and feels like it's haunted - so we headed back to Basco and did not mind insisting.
Shanedel's Inn & Cafe, Basco, Batanes.
Luckily, we found this beautiful place in Basco - over-looking the Batanes Pier.
Complete with elevated swimming pool to provide the scenic view of the port and even the Basco Lighthouse, Shanedel's place was one of the best places to stay when in Basco.
We are very thankful finding this place in reasonable price, nice amenities, fast Starlink internet, and rooms that is more than enough for its bargain price.
This was our staging place for the next 3 days and 2 nights - roaming around Batan Island before flying back to Manila on the 6th day of this getaways.
Kookowa Chicken Inasal, Basco, Batanes.
After a few hours of resting, we decided to ride around Basco, and look for a nice place for dinner.
There was no fast-food chain in Batanes - the local government resist these non-Ivatan's big business that will destroy the small business in Batanes - so only local restaurants are available there.
Kookowa Chicken Inasal serve pork liempo and chicken inasal that comes with unlimited rice and soup, sodas, and ice cold beers.
Of course, we drink beers after the dinner to rejoice the 3 days of experiencing Batanes - from Sabtang to Ivana, Uyugan, Itbud, part of Imnajbu, east Mahatao, west Mahatao, and back to Basco.
4th Day: Roaming Basco and Mahatao.
October 31, 2024, Tuesday (wearing the yellow Batanes shirts)
Beehan Meals and Snacks, Basco, Batanes.
One of the most famous restaurants in Basco can be found in its inner skirts.
Beehans Meals and Snacks offers Filipino dishes, silog meals, and all sort of snacks to satisfy one's cravings all day.
Our heavy breakfast includes pork sinigang with steamed rice plus soda, and spamsilog with coffee.
We need it because in this 4th day in Batanes, we will visit an old radar station, the most famous chapel, one of the most visited lighthouses, a fishing village, a spring, and back to Rakuh A Payaman - before returning back to Basco.
Tukon Radar Station, Basco, Batanes.
Located on a hilltop with a perfect view of Batan Island, the South China Sea, Mt. Iraya, Basco proper, and boulder lined cliffs and the Pacific Ocean, the Tukon Radar Station is a nice spot in Batanes.
This used to be a United States weather station and then Radar Station of PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration).
The scenic view on top was so amazing with the cold breeze of air coming from the northeast monsoon during our visit.
Tukon Chapel, Basco, Batanes.
This beautiful chapel popular for weddings, inspired by traditional Ivatan stone houses, is perched atop scenic a hill, offering stunning views.
The chapel’s design is simple yet elegant, with its white stones exterior standing out against the vibrant green backdrop.
Inside, the large windows offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect place for reflection and prayer.
A short prayer for all the departed family members were uttered - as we missed so much Kuya Jepoy during that time bringing his favorite watch with us.
This was the chapel that I once secretly plan to surprise and marry my wife 3.5 years ago - but was cancelled due to the pandemic.
Tayid Lighthouse, Mahatao, Batanes.
The 6.3 kilometers scenic mountain road from Tukon Chapel to Tayid Lighthouse was so amazing to ride - and from afar this lighthouse stood in one of the most amazing location.
Originally built in 2002 to guide fishing vessels coming from the east of Batan Island, this lighthouse is one of the most favorite to visit in Batanes.
It has a breathtaking view of the cliffs and the ocean - it can be seen clearly on the left from the top of Racuh a Payaman (Marlboro Hills).
The northeast monsoon wind was very strong when in the lighthouse - there is no way I can fly my drone around it..!
So, we just relax and enjoy our moments there, took some amazing photos, and enjoy the breathing of clean air for several minutes.
Diura Fishing Village, Mahatao, Batanes.
Riding down towards the eastern seaside road from Tayid Lighthouse cliff, the silence in Diura Fishing Village will stoke you.
An idyllic village tucked in a small cove east of Mahatao, Diura has a lighthouse, a beach, and stone houses that was rumored to be one of the oldest in Batanes.
This village is often quiet except during the summertime when official fishing season for Arayu (dorado) makes the people there very alive.
Passing Diura fishing village and taking some time there was a bit relaxing for us after the thrilling rides in the scenic roads.
Rakuh-a-adi Spring, Mahatao, Batanes.
There is a fresh-water spring in the beach that's just on top of the hills of Rakuh A Payaman.
They said it is the fountain of youth because literally, you are young enough to reach it - the ascent to the spring from the mountain road will indeed challenge your spirit.
But we have to take advantage of the heat of the sun reaching Marlboro Hills to fly the drone - and make my dream come true.
Back to Rakuh A Payaman, Mahatao, Batanes.
Reaching Marboro Hills from the fishing village is easy on scooter - this was our chance to witness the beauty of one of the top spot in Batanes.
It was our 33 years anniversary celebration getaways - and I bought the drone, practice flying, and build confidence, just for this specific moment.
There was a bit of showers during the filming, but it does not stop us from taking the best moment in this getaways - it goes to show (in the end of the video that it's raining) that, even it's tough most of the times, you have to be persistent to accept everything in a positive way - all is as God will's it...!
Served with elegant set of dishes consists of bistig, pata tim, stir fry veggies, malunggay soup, and steamed rice all for 860 pesos, it was a celebration after accomplishing the dream of flying the drone in Marlboro Hills.
A Healer in Basco, Batanes.
After coming back from the full day of roaming-around, I had enough of the right frozen shoulder - so we seek the famous manghihilot (healer) in Basco, Ate Floring Cardona.
She was like a mother-like figure in Basco, and many local goes to her - but you have to fall in line.
Some questions and advice were given to me after the "tawas" was done - and a light massage with hot oil completes her healing process.
5th Day: Experiencing Basco for More.
November 1, 2024, Wednesday (wearing the custom Philippine Loop blue-black-red shirts)
Kapampangan Breakfast in Basco, Batanes.
A seaman from Pampanga who married a local Ivatan serve Pampanga's Best process meats in Basco.
His humble tapsilogan in the inner skirts of Basco open in the early morning up to 10am only, with the father and son bonding.
Back to Vayang Rolling Hills, Basco, Batanes.
The beauty of Vayang Rolling Hills is hard to resist - failing to fly the drone on the 1st day, we're back again for the 2nd try.
The drone doesn't fly for 2 reasons - first, the firmware was not updated, and second, the location is within the Aircraft Authorization Zone being very near the Basco Airport - and having the old firmware set, it was impossible to connect to the authorization server - I did not realize it.
As Philippine Loop Conquerors, we did not allow difficulties to overcome us - so we improvised.
We use the GoPro Hero 8 on selfie stick and ride the rolling hills smoothly back and forth - it worked..!
Chadpidan Boulder Beach, Basco, Batanes.
The beach below the view point in Vayang Rolling Hills was irresistible - we search and navigate the road leading to it.
Nestled on the western coast of Basco, Chadpidan Boulder Beach was surprisingly amazing too..!
It has smaller and few stones than in Valugan, Chadpidan Boulder Beach has a different feel down there, offering a more dramatic and raw natural scenery.
Having been in the east side, the Chadpidan Boulder Beach is often highlighted for its remarkable sunsets, where the sinking sun casts a golden hue over the boulders, creating a mesmerizing scene that photographers will surely cherish.
Back to BeeHan Resto, Basco, Batanes.
Coming from Vayang Rolling Hills and Chadpidan Boulder Beach was a bit tiring since we were roaming-around for 5 days now - we headed back to Beehan Meals and Snacks.
There we share and enjoy their version of pancit canton with egg and halo-halo fiesta.
We also tried their distinctive calamandrin juice with turmeric that completes our satisfaying 5th day meryenda.
It tasted like a calamnsi juice with a much more bitter bite into it.
Chawa View Deck, Mahatao, Batanes.
Passing by this spot for so many times, we decided to take a detailed look of what Chawa View Deck can offer.
There was a grotto of Mama Marry in front of the view deck, the view deck is like a small park, and there was a stone stair way down to the rocky cliff below.
The water splashing on the rocky cliffs will get you soak in wet easily at the bottom.
We decided to get some few splashes of cold salt waters for the experience and it fun of it.
Chawa View Deck is often visited by the locals and lovers which offers everyone a refuge and peace of mind while being near with nature.
A time with Ms. Ericka @ Kookowa Chicken Inasal, Basco, Batanes.
Instead of going back and swim in the pool - we went back to Kookowa Chicken Inasal to have few drinks.
We invited again Ms. Ericka Alasco to come over for a moment chatting about Batanes - which ended the 5th day happily.
6th Day: Basco, Batanes to Angele City, Pampanga
November 2, 2024, Thursday (wearing the pink-orange Batanes shirts)
The owner of Shanedel's Inn & Cafe got married to a foreigner named Shane and designed and decorated their beautiful resort with all the amazing stuffs in the bar as well as in the coffee area - unfortunately Sir Shane passed away many years ago - peace be upon him - we said our deep appreciation to Ma'am Del, and said goodbye to her.
We ride the Yamaha Mio Gear to the parking lot of the Basco Airport, as per the owner's instruction.
Then, simply left the parking ticket and the key in the glove hole - it is safe to do that only in Batanes.
The Philippine Airlines flight PR 2933 bound for Manila scheduled to take off by 0755H or earlier - so we check in early.
Inside the airport that was built with stone walls, we took our breakfast of pork longanisa, sausage, pakbet, and steamed rice with coke.
Luckily, the sole representative of Batanes, H.E. Cong. Ciriaco Gato Jr., was with us on the same flight - it was a pleasure meeting you Sir.
This man was very simple, down to earth, softly spoken, and easily approachable - imagine, he was travelling with only one person carrying (maybe) some important documents - he is not the traditional politicians - and his constituents love him so much.
Flying with this airplane is a bit familiar to us already - it's the same type of airplane that flew us to and back from Busuanga on our Coron getaways.
After more than an hour of flight, we were already in the Manila International Airport T3 - going to T2 - then ride a point-to-point bus back to SM Clark, in Angeles City Pampanga.
In SM Clark, Gian and Mama Lola (peace be upon her) met us and we enjoyed a pizza for lunch to celebrate the successful journey.
Our Batanes getaways ended here - it was very safe, super exciting, and absolutely amazing experience.
Is it really expensive when in Batanes?
If you are not into extravagance and luxurious comforts in life, it is okay visiting Batanes - do it in DIY, ride a rented scooter and roam-around freely will save you a lot of money.
What makes Batanes elusive?
The cost of airfare makes people take aback and forget Batanes.
I asked one of the locals on how they cope up with the airfare,
As for the airfare he said, patiently wait for the promo tickets and sacrifice for the available schedule when it happens.
What makes the ticket price so expensive?
I am not exactly sure why airfare is too expensive - but being speculative only - maybe, controlling the influx of tourist and avoids overcrowding the serenity in Batanes, by way of limited flights makes the airfare skyrocketed up to enormously high cost, but it's brilliant.
What makes Batanes so unique?
Aside from the scenic views, amazing landscapes, awesome zigzag roads, boulder beaches, lighthouses, old stone houses, ports, and the extremely humble lives of Ivatan's - you can never find a place in the entire Philippines that people are smiling at you - greetings on the road is customary and absolutely reassuring – they will either tap their horn, wave at you, nod their heads – we never experience the warm gestures anywhere - it’s only in Batanes.
“Batanes is every traveler’s dream destination...”
Also in Batanes during our visit while roaming around every tourist spot, you seldom see other tourist - thus, the serenity is absolute.
Lastly, the entire Batanes Islands seemed well preserved and prepared specially for tourism - seldom you see man-made trash - there was no cluttering site seen - and everyone seem so polite with the tourist around.
Byahe lang…!
2023 October 28 ~ November 2 | Batan and Sabtang Islands, Batanes
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