Thinking about the pandemic alone is already exhausting, right?
I believe that we can all agree when I say that the pandemic has gotten the best of us. Many plans have been derailed, and many people have been caged at their homes doing who-knows-what.
So, imagine the relief that we will all get once this is over. Imagine us going back to our former routines without minding nasty rules of engagement that limit us all from enjoying ourselves — without those annoying masks and *coughs* ineffectual *coughs* face shields.
And what better way to end the pandemic and start a new chapter of our lives than going to the most beautiful places that we all have missed because of travel restrictions.
"What better way to end the pandemic and start a new chapter of our lives than going to the most beautiful places that we all have missed because of travel restrictions."
Here are five (5) places that definitely need to be on your list. For this article, our starting point will be none-other than Kilometer 0, Manila. So, buckle your seatbelts and prepare yourselves because it will be long and we will have the best road trip ever.
The first stop on our trip is…
1. Baler, Aurora
When we say Baler, the first thing that comes to people’s minds is the beach! That is because Baler is known for its surfing spots! Yes, not just a spot but SPOTS. But today, you will discover the most famous beach for surfers.
Photo from Pinoy Adventure Rider
Sabang Beach is known as the Sunrise Beach of Aurora. Although it does not have the so-called pristine white sand, it is still the most frequented tourist spot in Baler. This is because of its soft sand and massive waves that could reach up to 14 ft. — a remarkable height that's enough to thrill those who have a sense of adventure.
But of course, another reason why it is the most visited tourist spot is because of the variety of activities it can offer.
If you are not the kind of person who likes to ride the waves, you can always visit some of their beautiful hotels with swimming pools, attend parties at local bars, and enjoy authentic Aurora cuisines in all the restaurants lined within the two-kilometer stretch of Sabang Beach.
Photo from Out of Town Blog
And of course, you should not miss MUSEO de BALER.
Here, you will be able to witness the rich history of the town, from the only tsunami-survivor families up to the thousands of thriving families today. This museum boasts its exhibits on the ethnic groups of Dumagat and Ilongot, the memorabilia of Manuel L. Quezon, the siege of Baler, and other artifacts and paintings that would give us a picture of the beautiful historical Baler.
There are so many more places that you can visit when you go to Baler, but we got to move on to the next destination. The next stop on our road trip is…
2. Ambaguio, Nueva Vizcaya
Just about 6 hours from Baler, you will reach the newest tourist attraction in Region II, the Paragliding Mecca of the North.
Photo from Nueva Vizcaya Paragliding
Well, I know that you have already swum in many beaches, rode a lot of waves, and maybe climbed different mountains. But how many of you have already experienced paragliding? Sure, it is not the same as skydiving, but the thrill is not far different.
Nueva Vizcaya Paragliding flights run at about 10 to 15 minutes and can go up to 20 minutes if the wind condition is good enough. While gliding, you will witness a majestic view of the province. But not only that! They also offer Tandem Flights, ParaCamping, Paramotor, Paratrike, and tours!
Photo from Nueva Vizcaya Paragliding Facebook page
After exploring the beauty of Nueva Vizcaya, hop back into the car as we are to continue with our road trip.
Our next stop? Callao Cave in Cagayan.
Make sure to pack plenty of food and water because it will be a looooooooong trip. But of course, you can always have a quick stop at Santiago City, Isabela, and enjoy shopping at Robinsons Place Santiago to refurbish yourself and restock.
3. Callao Cave, Peñablanca, Cagayan
Just about 5 hours from Ambaguio, you will reach an “Important Cultural Property” of the country. Callao Cave is home to a rich prehistoric past. In 2007, a human metatarsal was found, dating to about 67,000 years. This metatarsal is about 20,000 years older than the one found in Tabon Cave in Palawan, which was thought to be the first inhabitants of the Philippine archipelago.
Photo from Lakad Pilipinas
But before you can witness the beautiful caves and the formations inside, you will need to climb the painstaking 184-step concrete stairs. If you survive the stairs (which will be worth it if you do so), your guide will discuss some safety measures and reminders.
After that, you are up for the first chamber of the cave, which was converted into a chapel, complete with pews and an altar. You can also explore the remaining 6 chambers and be in awe in every single one. There were originally 9 chambers, but two chambers were closed off by an earthquake in the 1980s.
To fully enjoy the Callao Cave, you should visit from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where the sun is high enough to illuminate the chambers.
Don’t forget to take some pictures to add to your road trip album!
4. Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
Since you are already in the North, you should not miss Pagudpud, dubbed as the Boracay of the North. Just about 5 hours from Callao Cave, make sure to stop by and enjoy the waves and the sun.
Do you know why?
Travel+Leisure, a New York-based travel magazine, just listed Saud Beach as one of the 25 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World. Saud Beach is the only destination in the Philippines that made it to the list, said the Department of Tourism.
Photo from ABS-CBN News
Surely, you will never get disappointed by its pristine white sand and its crystal-clear waters. A perfect destination if you just need to relax from the surfing, paragliding, and camping from the past days of your road trip.
And last but not least…
5. San Fernando, La Union
A lot of you might have gone here already, but it is so hard to neglect and cross out San Fernando on the list. For more or less 5 hours from Pagudpud, the very beautiful San Fernando awaits you. Known for its beaches namely Canaoay Beach, Carlatan Beach, Poro Point, and Wallace Air Station, San Fernando also boasts three more tourist spots! Do not forget to visit the Pindangan Ruins, Christ the Redeemer Statue, and the Seven Hills!
Pindangan Ruins Photo by La Union Tayo!
Christ the Redeemer Statue Photo by DestiMap
Pagoda Hill, part of the Seven Hills Photo by PMCorner Blog
The Seven Hills of San Fernando is composed of Capitol Hill, Heroes Hill & Freedom Park Stairway, Pagoda Hill, Bethany Hill, Mirador Hill, Mariner’s Hill, and Miracle Hill, all having their own story painting the great and rich history of La Union.
But wait! We have a bonus for you! Just this June 2021, Baguio City opened the Igorot Stone Kingdom. The good news is it is just about 3 hours from San Fernando!
The Stone Kingdom features Igorot folklore and showcases the local’s rock-laying skills. This can be found along Long-long Road in Pinsao Proper Village and is owned by Pio Velasco.
Photo by danventures
This pandemic has been really exhausting and may still be far from over. But at least for now, we have places to look forward to. This list may not be perfect, but the variety of activities — i.e. surfing, paragliding, cave exploring, bar hopping, relaxing by the seashore, learning and appreciating culture, and knowing history — is undoubtedly a great way to catch up with the things we failed to do in the course of the pandemic.
"This pandemic has been really exhausting and may still be far from over. But at least for now, we have places to look forward to."
So, grab your pens and papers and list down these Top 5 (with a bonus) destinations for your next road trip! #TravelGoals #TheBeginningOfTheEnd
Graphics by: Sofia Vinuya
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