Summer
skies are a thing to lookout for when thinking about that much-needed-vacay. Behind the cloudless blue skies, warm breeze and sun-kissed skin is the perfect
summer getaway that we longed to chase. Well, one should keep in mind that
vacations don’t have to be pricey. Few tips? Go local! And in that case, it’s time to turn up the summer heat with these coolest local summer destinations:
In this post I'm going share my favorite summer destinations that truly left an impression.
Siargao Island
Before Siargao became a surfing hotspot and Boracay's rival. It was a top island hopping destination.
THE BIG THREE. For the love of endless and tireless island hopping, these three islands should be on your “heat” list.
Naked Island is
usually the first destination. Just like Camiguin’s White Island, it doesn’t
have trees that will shade you from the blistering heat of the sun - just pure white sandbar
stretching as far as your wandering feet can walk. There are no “naked”
people in here though, but options are always open. I'm just kidding ;)
Daku Island is the biggest among the
three. Beach bums would surely love it here as the mood can get so Caribbean
with coconut trees neatly lined up near the shore. The fine white sand and clear
turquoise water complements the unspoiled scenery.
Not too far is a tiny, rocky
island of Guyam which is much more picturesque. The blinding white sand and
battered rocks facing the raging Pacific is simply idyllic.
The Caves and Coves of Sohoton, Bucas Grande Island
Two hours away from Siargao lies the secluded yet mystique island of Bucas Grande. Though less
popular among the major islands of Surigao del Norte, don’t let this be the reason for excluding this in your must visits.
Few years ago, I had the opportunity to
set foot on its sprawling cliff and lush vegetation. Trekking
through a narrow path swamped with tall grasses and shrubs, you will find
yourself in the mouth of splitting caves. One of them is Bolitas Cave, named
after the small rounded stones called “bolitas” in our dialect that resemble the
stones found in the cave walls and ceiling. The Crystal Cave on the other hand, have
stalactites in crystal-like formation glowing in the midst of darkness.
The
stunning splendor of Sohoton doesn’t end there. The labyrinth of green cliffs
surrounding turquoise water and jellyfishes is yet another sight to behold. Sohoton
is famous for its landmark – the “Horseshoe”, a rock with an oversized
stalactite barely touching the water. It does look like a horse’ shoe from afar.
Passing through the small crevice leading to Hagukan and Magkukuob Cave poses a
challenge if you go there on a high tide. While Hagukan Cave is enthralling,
Magkukuob Cave will set your adrenaline rush to the next level. Treading the
water, climbing the stiff boulders and jumping your way down is the only way
to get yourself out from the cave. So be warned… this is not for the
faint-heart.
It’s
always good to take some time off and relax, immerse yourself in the beautiful wonders of nature. It's the reward we can give to ourselves after a hard days work.
