Tranquil. Tantalizing. Enchanting.
Three words that can probably depict the emergence of a paradise. A paradise that all of us dreamt about. But who knows that there is a place that can give you a paradise-feels and you can find it here in the Philippines which is known as the pearl of the orient where the beaches, islands and many more places are undeniably touristy for the vacationers. One of the best places in the Philippines that has a lot of incomparable spots — Batanes.
Batanes is an archipelago province in the Philippines situated in the Cagayan Valley Region. It is the northernmost province in the country and also the smallest. But despite of it, Batanes has many huge areas where the amusing tourist spots are located.
First spot, the Basco Lighthouse. A six-story-tall lighthouse of Basco’s most renowned landmarks. It is perfect for those people who loves relaxing and a calm atmosphere where you can find the peacefulness of your mind.
Second spot, the House of Dakay. If you like some ancient things then this place is perfect for you. It is the oldest stone house ever to be constructed in the entire province of Batanes. This stone house has retained its original foundation, with its cogon roof replaced every few decades that make this place worth visiting.
Third spot, the Valugan Boulder Beach. Batanes has numerous beaches but what makes Valugan Beach unique from others is its shore which is dotted with smooth volcanic rocks. The view of this beach is absolutely a sight to behold, you will surely enjoy this magnificent beach faces the pacific ocean.
Fourth spot, the Rakuh a Payaman also known as Marlboro Hills. If you want a new kind of seascape, then you should visit this place. It is a featuring rolling grasslands and an amazing view of the coast. Rakuh a payaman is well-known as one of the most picturesque sights in Batanes. It is often referred to as Marlboro Hills or Marlboro City by many locals and travelers.
Fifth spot, the Mahatao Hedgerows. The stunning pattern of tall crops known as “liveng” that surround Mahato’s farm fields. It is not just a picture-perfect view but it also protects the local’s produce from destruction brought on by wild animals as well as unfavorable weather and other bad environmental conditions. So visiting this place is just like supporting also our natural commodities.
All of these places are just some of the proofs that to see a paradise is possible. It may not be a perfect one, but these places will surely give the contentment in ourselves because of their own hidden beauty that also needs an appreciative eyes of the beholder. With that, we can truly feel the essence of these places in Batanes, the existing paradise.
[photo by: I Am Aileen | pinterest]