Barely Bohol
I recalled with chagrin my unkept promise from Sabang to buy better sandals as I slipped and hopped along the dark hilly path to Nuts Huts. I’d been told that the alternately rocky and muddy trail, which winds from the small highway through a tiny village and down into the jungle to the infamous stairs […]
Fiestas on the Far Shore
When I arrived in Siargao, Dexter, who was sent from Ocean 101 Beach Resort to retrieve me from the ferry, excitedly told me all about the fiestas happening around the island for some saint’s day. Not particularly religious, he promised, dancing and partying all night, very fun, I must come with him and some of […]
I Crashed Into a Restaurant
I debated whether or not to share this post, partly out of shame, and mostly for fear that my father may have a minor heart attack upon reading it (Hi Dad, go grab a beer, or scotch, or two). But in travel, everything is an adventure, and so far many of mine have been foolish, […]
Stuck in Siargao
I’d only intended to stay in General Luna, Siargao Island for four days, or so I’d said when I made my reservation at Ocean 101 Beach Resort. I hadn’t even planned on showing up when I did, but upon arriving in Cebu City from Palawan, I found the city rainy, distant, and my accommodation depressing, […]
Romancing Sabang
I think one of the many culprits of my wanderlust is the classic 80’s flick, Romancing the Stone. Romance, adventure, and intrigue, all set in the dense jungles, rolling countryside, and ancient cities of Colombia. (Do not get me started on wanting to visit Cartagena). In addition to featuring Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner, there […]
Typhoon Expedition: Paradise in Palawan
As we sailed toward the towering clouds, like vast floating islands, dark misty columns of rain below, the choppy sea began to heave, sending the bow of the Aurora Lakbay skyward, and the outriggers smacking down against the waves on the decent. The wind picked up and rain began to lance across the deck and […]
On Photography: Camera Showdown
I’ve brought two cameras on this trip, neither of them remotely professional: my iPhone 4s, and a three year old Canon PowerShot SD960 IS. In Beijing, I’d left the Canon in my checked bag, so the iPhone was all I had, and I think it did a fairly good job. The iPhone is convenient, easy to […]
Reckless in the Cordilleras
The actions recounted within are entirely irresponsible, and in no way condoned by myself, however much I participated in said behavior, for which I offer no excuses. What I’m trying to say is do not do anything I would do. Or did. *** I met Randy when he and half a dozen other touts pushed […]