I’ve been anticipating my plan to go to Batanes last December 2013, but my flights have been canceled twice, so I have to go for another airlines which is Philippine Airlines.
Travelling to Batanes has been tagged as really expensive, well that’s partly true. To tour Batanes the cheapest way, you have to wait for Airline Seatsale! Since I cannot wait anymore, I booked my flight despite its high price.
I intend to unwind in Batanes, so this time, I availed of Full Board Package at Batanes Seaside Lodge instead of doing in on my own.
My package details can be found here. Since I am travelling solo, I pay P16,000. I also made a request to take a motorbike instead of Van.
Even if you do it on your own, it will still cost you much. You would need to hire a tourguide, or a car, since there isn’t always PUV passing by. I think you have to hire a tricycle or rent a bike.
I arrived in Batanes 8am via PAL Express. FREEZING COLD!
A guy from Batanes Seaside lodge fetched me ( I forgot his name!)
I love my room! It’s facing the beach, and there’s also table and seats in the terrace where you can have the perfect view and feel the cold wind!
The meals they have provided is actually too much for me! Delicious food! 🙂
1st Day
My tour began 1 in the afternoon, my guide is Paolo, almost same age as me. We’re just like buddies, so I really have so much fun! Plus, the fact that I was riding in a motorbike, i had the awesome view of the magnificent hills and seasides of Batanes. Following the itinerary, we have visited Northern Island. Whooooorrayyyy! You can inquire to Paolo, should you have questions about tour in Batanes, he can definitely assist you.
My favourite part of this tour is the Rocking Hills!!!! Followed by the Lighthouse !!!
That was just the first part of my tour, and its already breathtaking!
2nd day
My second day tour in Batanes, would be the famous Sabtang Island. This time, another fellow solo traveler joined me and Paolo. We left the lodge before 7pm, and arrived at the Ivana Port. The boat ride took about 30 minutes, and from the Sabtang Port, we rode in tricycle(it’s not the typical tricycle you can found in Manila!)
Usual, I was amazed with the cliffside road! The seaside views are really fascinating!
We also had our lunch before leaving the Sabtang. Took the boat 1 in the afternoon.
As soon as we get back to Basco, i took my rest and had my dinner.
3rd day
I’m already sad. I cannot imagine leaving this beautiful and stunning place. Im already attached to this place, it’s as if I found my sanctuary.
My last day tour is the Southern Island. Paolo and I left early, and been praying not to rain! We have visited several churches, and the highlight of this tour for me is the Marlboro County with its breathtaking panoramic view, velvet grass and tamed framed animals. This is like New Zealand!
I can imagine myself reading my books, while listening to music, or perhaps painting/sketching! Lovely!
Another place you shouldn’t miss is the “Honesty Coffee Shop”, where you get what you need and pay it. No cashier. It’s up to you. It’s all about honesty 🙂 I love this place. We took a shelter here to avoid the pouring rain, since we’re riding on a motorbike.
After few minutes of waiting, we have decided to continue. I asked Paolo, if we could drop by to “Welcome Basco” arc, and then, we made a stop for a short picture taking when all of a sudden it rained heavily! OMG! I was shivering from cold. I knew i wore the wrong outfit for that day.
Our tour end that day, since it’s been raining, I just decided to stay in my room.
4th Day
I left Batanes with an eagerness to go back! I shall go back in Summer! I wish to trek Mt Iraya and visit Itbayat Island.
