#wanderedlines

[wanderedlines]

I really miss Japan, inn sha Allah, I will return one day. May Allah open the doors for me to go back at the right time, with ease, and barakah. Ameen.

[wanderedlines]

Vietnam, Roofed in Mist

As I arrived at Noi Bai International Airport, my first instinct was practical. Find an ATM, withdraw some Vietnamese Dong, and then look for food.

Travel, for me, always begins with small necessities. Local currency in my wallet makes everything feel official. A proper meal settles the body after a flight.

I had already booked a sleeper bus to Sapa and chose the airport as my pickup point. So while waiting for the bus, I simply sat down and enjoyed my food.

There is something meaningful about that pause. Sitting in a new country, eating your first meal, watching people move around you. It is in those quiet, ordinary moments that travel truly begins.

I’m not really into noodles, but the Pho I had was actually kind of okay. Not too flavorful, not overwhelming. Just simple, hot, and exactly what I needed at that moment. It wasn’t the kind of meal that makes you say it’s the best you’ve ever had. But after a flight, sitting there in Hanoi, holding a warm bowl in my hands, it felt right.

After enjoying my Pho, I went outside the airport and waited for my booked sleeper bus going to Sapa.

The sleeper bus turned out to be a surprisingly comfortable experience. I booked the HK Buslines Sleeper Bus, not knowing exactly what to expect, but it exceeded what I had imagined. The operators were courteous and organized, guiding passengers calmly and making sure everyone was settled before departure.

The bus itself felt like a small cocoon on wheels. Clean space, reclining berth, soft lighting. It gave me the kind of rest you need before meeting the mountains. Somewhere between four to six hours, I honestly cannot remember exactly anymore, we traveled north toward Sapa. The journey included two stops, just enough to stretch, breathe, and remind myself that I was truly on the road in Vietnam.

When we finally arrived in Sapa, I was pleasantly surprised to see another HK Buslines van waiting for us. It was coordinated seamlessly. They transferred passengers directly to their respective hotels, which made everything feel incredibly convenient and well thought out.

From airport waiting in Hanoi to mountain-bound comfort, the transition felt smooth. It made me appreciate how travel is not only about destinations, but about the systems and small efficiencies that make you feel taken care of even when you are far from home.

Check-in at the hotel was just as convenient. I had booked it in advance through Agoda, so everything was already reserved when I arrived. No long explanations, no confusion. Just a smooth confirmation and a key handed over with a smile.

And the best part. A mountain view. But, my very first thought after check-in was not the view.

Again. It was food.

Traveling always heightens my hunger, and after the long ride from Hanoi, I needed something warm and satisfying.

As a Muslim traveler, finding halal food is always one of my first considerations, so I felt genuinely relieved when I easily spotted a halal restaurant nearby. It felt like a small blessing in a foreign place, it's Sapa Halal Restaurant.

And the food did not disappoint. It was good. Comforting. Flavorful. The kind of meal that makes you pause for a moment and simply enjoy where you are.

That first meal was so good that I found myself coming back. Twice.

Before leaving Sapa, I dined at the same restaurant again. Ssh. No regrets. When you find something reliable, comforting, and genuinely satisfying in a foreign place, you hold on to it.

You know what’s the funny part, and honestly, what I mislooked about this trip?

The weather.

For three days in Sapa, it was foggy and cold. Not the aesthetic, light-mist-for-photos kind of fog. The thick, dramatic kind that completely hides the mountains. I only saw the mountain view twice during my entire stay. The rest of the time, it was wrapped in white. I came all the way to the mountains, and the mountains decided to play hide-and-seek.

During my stay, my routine became simple. Breakfast hall in the morning. Back to my room. Then outside again around noon, when the cold became slightly more bearable. And even then, I had to wear three layers. Three. Layers.

The first stop on my Sapa itinerary was simple. Just one goal: take a photo at Sun Plaza Sapa Station. I got it. One good shot. Not a dozen, not a perfect postcard, but one that made me smile every time I looked at it. Sometimes that’s enough.

The second plan was a bit more ambitious. I wanted to see the monorail from Vietrekking, a trail I had read about and imagined myself exploring. But the universe had other plans. The trail was completely covered in… fog. Thick, relentless fog. Fooooooggggg.

No monorail in sight, no dramatic landscape. Just me, the mist, and my overactive imagination. At first, I felt a twinge of disappointment. But then I laughed at how predictable it had become.

On the second day, I was ready for Fansipan, having already booked my ticket from Klook.

The first ride was the monorail. Finally, the monorail was there.

I may have missed it from the viewing spot at Vietrekking before, but this time I was not just looking at it from afar. I was going to ride it to Fansipan.

Then came the cable car. Inside, I felt the gentle warmth of the sun above the clouds, a rare, comforting moment after days of fog and chill in Sapa.

But the magic didn’t last long. The moment we stepped outside the cable car to walk to the next station, the fog and cold returned. It wrapped around everything, softening edges, hiding the distant peaks, making the world feel like a secret waiting to be revealed.

The walk to the Peak Funicular Station was long but beautiful. The trail opened up into picture-worthy scenes, mist curling around pine trees, terraced slopes peeking through clouds, paths that begged to be photographed.

Every step reminded me that sometimes the journey itself is the destination. The fog challenged me, but the views rewarded me, even if only in glimpses.

These pictures hold a really funny story.

Every time I set up my tripod at the summit, I had to move fast. The wind was strong, and I knew it could knock everything over in seconds.

So there I was, positioning the tripod, pressing the timer, and rushing into place before the wind decided to ruin the shot. Half the time, I was not even sure the tripod would survive.

Here I am, 3,143 meters above sea level.

Standing at the summit of Fansipan, known as the Roof of Indochina.

It was cold. It was foggy. And yet, it felt surreal.

No dramatic speech in my head. No overwhelming emotion. Just a quiet moment of realization. I made it up here.

If you’re heading to Sapa and planning to visit Fansipan, my advice is simple: allocate a full day for it. Take it slow. Enjoy every moment. I spent mine fully immersed. I took photos of the misty trails and peaks, capturing the fleeting glimpses the clouds allowed.

I even recorded a TikTok video to remember it all, laughing at myself as the wind tried to steal my hair and my hijab.

And then it was time to go back. I retraced the same trail I had taken up to Fansipan, letting the fog, the quiet, and the crisp mountain air guide me down. Each step back felt like a soft farewell, a gentle reminder that the journey up was as important as the summit itself.

After returning from Fansipan and stepping back into Sapa, I needed a small pause. I went straight for a coffee.

There’s something about sitting with a warm cup in hand after a day of walking through mist and cold.

On the third day, my plan was simple: Swing Sapa first, then Cat Cat Village.

I arrived at Swing Sapa full of excitement, ready to enjoy their unlimited ride pass. But … oopsie. My expectations met reality, and reality came with a shrug. The “unlimited rides” turned out to be just the Rainbow Slide and the kart ride. That was it.

And the Rainbow Slide? No drone footage available. Nada. Selfie-style video was the only option. I had to channel all my own creativity and energy just to capture the moment. Not what I had imagined, but, that’s travel for you.

After Swing Sapa, I booked a Grab to Cat Cat Village. By the way, Grab booking is incredibly convenient in Sapa, a real lifesaver for getting around quickly.

When I arrived, I looked at the trail leading downhill and realized it was about a 30-minute hike. And you know what I did? I didn’t pursue the plan. I sat right there, ordered an ice cream from a nearby stall just where the Grab dropped me, and let the moment be enough.

I had a sleeper bus booked back to Hanoi that evening, and the thought of tiring myself by going down and then having to climb back up later didn’t appeal. Practicality won over adventure this time.

After my ice cream moment in Cat Cat Village, I treated myself to the free massage offered by the hotel. It was the perfect way to rest before the journey back.

Then it was time to pack my luggage and head to the sleeper bus station. This time, I booked a different sleeper bus: Futa Ha Son Sleeper Bus. And honestly, I was disappointed.

The operators didn’t really try to communicate. English? Forget it. Even the simplest guidance felt curt, and there was a hint of rudeness in how things were handled. Unlike HK Buslines Sleeper Bus, where operators would call you until you opened your curtain, the Futa Ha Son staff just peeked into your cabin to let you know your designated drop-off. It felt awkward and impersonal.

On top of that, booking a Grab in Hanoi was a bit more challenging compared to Sapa. Lesson learned: next time, just stick with HK Line. Smooth, courteous, and hassle-free.

In Hanoi, I booked an apartment-style stay, thinking I would cook for myself and enjoy a homey experience. But, going to the market turned out to be a bigger hassle than I expected.

By the time I settled in, I was tired from the journey from Sapa. So instead of preparing a full meal, I grabbed some instant, ready-to-eat food from a nearby convenience store.

While browsing the convenience store shelves, I spotted onigiri and felt a wave of nostalgia. It immediately took me back to my moments in Japan, the quiet streets, the little shops, the familiar comfort of a simple rice ball.

My first stroll in Hanoi Old Quarter was everything I hoped it would be. Narrow streets buzzing with motorbikes, vendors calling out their wares, the smells of street food weaving together into a kind of chaotic symphony. It was alive, vibrant, and full of character, exactly what makes the Old Quarter so iconic.

But then reality hit when I tried to book a Grab. My dear lord, the hassle was real. Multiple cancellations, constant waiting, and a feeling that this place simply wasn’t built for the kind of convenience I was used to in Sapa.

After navigating the chaos of Grab and surviving my first stroll in the Old Quarter, I decided to take a little break from the streets. I went to Lotte Mall Hanoi and let the air-conditioning work its magic.

Lunch was at a Thai restaurant inside the mall.

I also spent some time in the supermarket picking up pasalubongs. Small treats for friends and family, and a few indulgences for myself.

And then, I went back to my hotel. Safe, cozy, and with my little haul of souvenirs.

Pasalubong shopping didn’t stop at Lotte Mall. On my second day in Hanoi, I made my way to Hang Bac Street, determined to find a particular shop.

Why this shop? There’s an Ate (because she calls every Filipina Ate and maganda), a seller who’s trending on TikTok for being incredibly accommodating to Filipino tourists. She even gives discounts, which made her practically legendary in my eyes.

Finding her shop, however, was not easy. I walked back and forth along the street. But luck, and a little persistence, were on my side.

Finally, I spotted her. I ended up buying pasalubong worth more than a million Vietnamese dong. Worth every step, every raindrop, and every second of the mini-adventure.

And here’s the sweetest part. As I was checking out, she slipped 10,000 Vietnamese dong into a wallet (free of charge) as a little lucky charm.

After my little pasalubong adventure, I made my way to Hoan Kiem Lake. I didn’t plan anything ambitious, I just wanted to sit, breathe, and watch the life around me.

The lake was calm, the streets buzzing gently in the background. I even bought some fruit from a nearby vendor, a mix of fresh pieces sprinkled with salt and chili. The flavors were sharp, sweet, and a little surprising, much like Hanoi itself.

As I wandered around Hanoi, I also spotted The Note Coffee, the famous café full of colorful sticky notes where visitors can leave their own messages.

It looked charming, lively, and full of stories from travelers who had passed through. But I didn’t bother going in. I’m not really a coffee person, and somehow, I didn’t feel the need to leave a note to mark my visit.

Sometimes, travel isn’t about ticking every famous spot off a list. It’s about noticing them, appreciating their charm from afar, and moving on to the experiences that actually speak to you.

And just like that, the evening came, the time for my ticket back to the Philippines.

Thank you, Vietnam.

[wanderedlines]

Spellbound by Siquijor Shores

It was December 2024 when I was invited to join a Siquijor trip with my workmates. To be honest, I was hesitant at first, because it's Siquijor. For years, the island has carried stories of mystery: folk tales about potions, healers, and whispers of bad magic. It's the kind of place people speak about with curiosity, and a little caution.

But what I learned is this: sometimes the places wrapped in the biggest legends are the ones that hold the quietest truths. And Siquijor, beyond the stories, is simply an island filled with clear waters, kind people, and a pace of life that makes you breathe a little softer.

It was a fun trip in the simplest, purest sense, beaches, clear water, and coffee shop stops in between.

Sometimes, the heart just needs a place that feels light, and that December, Siquijor became that place for me.

So when we arrived, the first stop was, of course, food... and coffee. There's something comforting about starting a trip with a good meal.

We hired a Tuktuk to take us around the island and back to our hotel each day. Our driver was warm and kind, the kind of local who knows every turn, every hidden cafe, and every patch of ocean worth stopping for. We already had an itinerary in place, but he would gently suggest which spots were truly worth the time, and which ones we could happily skip.

Our first unplanned stop was the Tubod Marine Sanctuary, a snorkeling paradise. Though it wasn't originally on our itinerary, the recommendation turned out to be an unforgettable part of the trip.

I even took off my life vest while venturing farther from the shore, just to capture a video. Haha, a little daring but totally worth the shot.

After exploring the marine sanctuary, we headed to Pitogo Cliff, a stunning vantage point overlooking the sea. The cliff offers panoramic views of the coastline and the sparkling waters below, making it a perfect spot to pause, take in the scenery, and appreciate the raw, natural beauty of Siquijor.

I still can't believe I managed to sit at the very edge of the cliff. To capture the moment, I paid for a drone shot and a human-drone shot. The height was nerve-wracking, the wind teasing at the edge, but seeing the footage later made every scary heartbeat totally worth it.

Just look at that photo, the view, the height, the sheer thrill of the moment, it's a memory I'll never forget.

We set up a tripod to capture our group photo. And here's the squad, ready and smiling for the shot (nakatalikod naman).

Next, we visited an area lush with rubber trees, their tall, straight trunks creating a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere as we pass through.

The next day was dedicated to waterfalls. We spent the day exploring several of Siquijor's stunning falls, each with its own unique charm and serene beauty.

Our first stop was Lugnason Falls, a beautiful cascade sorrounded by lush greenery.

The water was incredibly fresh. I've always loved freshwater over seawater, and Lugnason Falls did not disappoint. Its crisp, cool flow was both refreshing and invigorating.

Next, we visited Cambugahay Falls, one of Siquijor's most famous waterfalls. Known for its multi-tiered cascades and turquoise waters, it's a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. The surrounding lush greenery and natural pools make it an ideal place to swim, relax, and fully immerse yourself in the island's serene beauty.

I couldn't resist taking multiple jumps into the pools. Each leap was incredibly refreshing, leaving me energized and fully immersed in the natural beauty of Cambugahay Falls.

On our third day, I told myself, no more getting wet and spending the whole day soaked.

See, I'm just taking photos.

But honestly, how could I resist such beautiful, clear waters? Oh dear, the sea was calling.

This was at Salagdoong Beach Resort, a charming spot known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy shores, and cliff diving spots. The place offers a serene escape while giving you a touch of excitement with its natural beauty and inviting ocean.

And... Jha-oana made her entrance.

Looking back, sorry, self, I ended up spending the whole day wet again; I hadn't brought any clothes to change into. All because, once again, I had told myself no more water.

I had the chance to stand at this jumping cliff before it became famous in the movie It's Okay to Not Be Okay, where Joshua Garcia and Anne Curtis took the iconic leap. Even before it hit the big screen, the view itself was breathtaking. It's amazing to think that this same spot would later be captured on film.

Finally, our last day was all about sightseeing and enjoying good food. No more waters, really, just a leisurely stroll through the island, taking in the sights, snapping photos, and savoring every bite of the local cuisine. It was the perfect way to end the trip on a relaxed and happy note, with memories of laughter, adventure, and the serene beauty of Siquijor lingering in my heart.

We didn't head straight home after Siquijor; instead, we spent the New Year in Cebu. Hahaha, a little extra adventure to close out the year and make the trip even more memorable.

Siquijor is a place where nature speaks softly but leaves a lasting impression, and where laughter, exploration, and gratitude naturally blend together. The island may be small, but its beauty and charm are unforgettable, a true escape for the heart and soul.

[wanderedlines]

At the Edge of the Map in Tawi-Tawi

Tawi-Tawi, a place often spoken of in distance but rarely in detail. For many, it feels far and unfamiliar. For me, it became a quiet reminder that beauty does not always announce itself loudly. Sometimes, it waits patiently, surrounded by sea, sky, and stories that deserve to be told.

The island does not try to impress; it simply exists, steady and sincere. It is a place where simplicity feels complete, where silence is not empty, and where every view carries a sense of grounding.

My trip to Tawi-Tawi was part of an office activity, where we conducted an orientation for a particular program while taking the chance to explore and appreciate the islands.

As one of the provinces in the Bangsamoro Region, Tawi-Tawi holds a unique place in our region, both culturally and geographically.

Before heading back to our office station, we decided to climb the famous Bud Bongao early in the morning.

Staring around 5 AM, we reached the summit just past 6 AM. Bud Bongao, often called the "sacred mountain of Tawi-Tawi," is not just a natural landmark but also a site of cultural and spiritual significance.

Pilgrims and locals alike climb its trails, and from the top, you can see panoramic views of the surrounding islands, including the nearby Malaysian Island of Pulau Sebatik, as well as the sunrise casting a golden glow over the horizon.

With our flight scheduled for 9 AM, we had to hurry back down, but the serene atmosphere and the breathtaking views made every step unforgettable.

Most of my visits were in Bongao, as it is the main island. However, there was one occasion when we also had the opportunity to explore Sangay Siapuh, a serene coastal area that offered a quieter glimpse of the island's natural beauty.

From Bongao, we took a boat to Sangay Siapuh, a journey that lasted a little over an hour. The ride itself was part of the experience, with the gentle sway of the boat and the vast expanse of sea around us setting the tone for the serene beauty that awaited us on the island.

The waters of Sangay Siapuh are remarkably clear, almost like glass, reflecting the sky and the surrounding landscape. The beauty of the place feels pure and unspoiled, a peaceful escape that stays with you long after you leave.

Beautiful, Sangay Siapuh.

One tip from my experience for anyone visiting Tawi-Tawi: avoid drinking tap water. For safety and peace of mind, stick to bottled or mineral water throughout your stay.

I would love to return to Tawi-Tawi someday and explore more of its islands, like Panampangan, Simunul, and others. There is still so much to discover, hidden beaches, vibrant communities, and stories waiting to be experienced.

[wanderedlines]

This flower holds a promise wrapped in hope, a quiet assurance that beauty does not rush, but arrives when the time is right. It represents patience that does not feel heavy, growth that happens softly beneath the surface, and a faith in what is becoming, even when it is not yet seen. There is comfort in stillness, a reminder that love can be steady and enduring, rooted in trust rather than urgency.

It carries the certainty that something meaningful is unfolding in silence, nourished by care and intention. The joy it brings is subtle yet profound, stemming from the understanding that love does not always need to blossom all at once to be genuine. Sometimes, it is strongest in the waiting, in the quiet belief that what is meant to flourish will do so beautifully.

[wanderedlines]

Right after stepping out of the plane from Thailand, I went straight to an ongoing activity. From slow mornings and unhurried walks to diving back into work almost instantly, it was a quick reminder of how travel gently pauses life, and how reality resumes the moment you land.

[wanderedlines]

Soft Mornings and Street Food in Thailand

Japan awakened something in me.

Somewhere between lectures, quiet streets, and long walks far from home, I realized there is a bigger world waiting beyond my comfort zone, and I wanted to see it for myself.

So just two months later, I followed that pull. I packed light, slowed down, and crossed borders again, this time to a nearby country that many Filipinos know well, not only as a travel destination, but also as a place of opportunity.

This is my Thailand story.

Unrushed mornings, long walks, endless food stops, and a gentle kind of exploration that reminded me that sometimes, travel does not have to be grand to be meaningful.

Here I am at NAIA Terminal 3, quietly waiting for my flight, with excitement slowly building as another journey is about to begin.

I arrived in Thailand in the evening, just as the city was settling into its nighttime rhythm.

With no rigid plans, my first instinct was simple: find food. And somehow, luck followed. Just a short walk away, I stumbled upon a cozy local restaurant serving fresh seafood. It was the perfect welcome. Unplanned, unpretentious, and deeply satisfying.

The meal set the tone for the days ahead.

The next day was intentionally slow.

No alarms, no rush. I left the hotel around 11:00 AM and headed to Terminal 21 for brunch.

Started the day with Pad Thai Soup for breakfast. Yes, breakfast. There's something about having an iconic dish in its home country that instantly makes the morning feel more alive and flavorful.

I have tried Pad Thai back in Cotabato City, but honestly, it was just fine. But having it fresh and authentic here in Thailand is a completely different experience. The flavors are bolder, deeper, and more intentional.

The spiciness caught me off guard. It's not the usual kind, but it works perfectly, balanced by the sweet and savory notes of the dish.

And of course, I couldn't leave without dessert. Ordered mango sticky rice, and somehow, it completed the entire brunch experience.

And before heading home to PH, I couldn't resist, I bought two packs of their chili powder to bring the taste of Thailand back with me.

Afterward, I spent the evening wandering around Pratunam Market, just walking and soaking everything in. No strict plans, no checklist. Just letting the day unfold as it wanted to.

Interestingly, I'm usually not a fan of suman back home in the Philippines, but in Thailand, they have mango sticky rice. Somehow I find it tastes different, and I enjoyed it. Hehe.

I picked some skincare products too.

These are just a few of the products I picked up at Pratunam Market.

On my third day in Thailand, I set out for a hop-on, hop-off boat tour along the Chao Phraya River. It was a perfect way to see the city from a different perspective, drifting past bustling markets, ornate temples, and vibrant riverfront life.

The river itself isn't exactly crystal clear; its waters have a rich, brown hue, almost like milo. Yet, this made the experience feel even more authentic and memorable.

We made stops at Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Iconsiam, taking in the stunning architecture, intricate details, and vibrant atmosphere of each site.

At Iconsiam, there's a food court brimming with Thai delicacies, and honestly, I just couldn't decide where to start, or maybe I just couldn't resist sticking to what I already knew I loved.

Thai people are friendly and approachable, which made moving around and exploring the city easy and comfortable.

I stayed a while at Iconsiam to watch the water show before heading back to my hotel. It was nice, fun, and a little wet, making it a memorable finale to my day.

Now I'm feeling a bit chilly, thanks to the sprinkles from the water show, a small, wet reminder of the fun I just had.

The next day, I stepped out in my pajamas around 9:00 AM in search of coffee, and bingo, Tom N Toms was just around the corner.

Sipping my coffee while watching the city slowly wake up, I couldn't help but feel a sense of calm and contentment.

I absolutely loved my breakfast; this was just perfect, a sweet and satisfying start to the day.

Today's adventure took me to CentralWorld and Platinum Fashion Mall, two of Bangkok's bustling shopping destinations filled with endless options for food, fashion, and local finds.

My supposed last day in Thailand was incredibly chill. I went back to Terminal 21, enjoyed a meal at the seafood restaurant, and just took it easy. I even picked up a few snacks to take with me, just in case I got hungry during my flight later that night.

However, surprise! When I arrived at the airport, I found out that my flight was cancelled and rescheduled for the same time the next day. What the? A mix of frustration and disbelief hit me instantly.

But what can you do? Sometimes, you just have to go with the flow and make the most of the unexpected circumstances.

Thanks to the unexpected flight cancellation, I treated myself to a good mango sticky rice. Sometimes, a little sweet indulgence is the perfect way to cope with surprises.

Thailand wasn't just about sightseeing; it was about slowing down and enjoying the small joys.

The food was definitely a highlight. Mango sticky rice, Pad Thai, fresh seafood, every bite felt like a discovery. I realized that even familiar dishes can feel completely different when tasted in their country of origin.

Overall, Thailand taught me to slow down, savor each moment, and find joy in simplicity. From food to markets, temples to river cruises, this trip was a gentle reminder that travel isn't just about the sights, it's about the experiences and feelings we carry back home.

Thank you, Thailand. Until next time.

[wanderedlines]

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