2011 has been an awesome year for me. It was a year of thrills and great adventure, a year of many firsts. This year I experienced my first out of Luzon trip, first snorkeling, zip lining, rock climbing, spelunking adventures, first time in Solo Backpacking, first time in volunteering and child sponsorship, so forth and so on.

It has been a crazy yet fulfilling year of learning through new experiences, getting out of the bubble that was my comfort zone, meeting lovely new friends along the way, collecting treasured memories and ultimately traveling to those destinations I only dreamed about before. For these reasons I will always be thankful to God for giving me a wonderful 2011.

So before we put an end to this year’s chapter, I would like to share with you some of my best travel experiences for this year.

1. Puerto Princesa, Palawan 
Travel Date:  March 11-14, 2011

Jump, jump, jump at Pandan Island, Honda Bay, Palawan

Our family trip to the “Greenest city in the Philippines” last March is one of the highlights of my 2011. It was my first trip in more than two years since I’ve been entirely pre-occupied by my work & hospital duties and this trip was a form of personal reward for a year of isolation and sleepless nights. Continue reading “2011: Of travel dreams come true” »

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Caramoan Peninsula, formerly known as Guta de Leche, are group of islands situated at the lower eastern portion of the province of Camarines Sur. Little was known about these fascinating islands before the sudden boom in tourism brought about by the different franchise of the Survivor Series drove tourists flocking in hordes. Despite of the sudden deluge in the tourism scene, Caramoan Peninsula still kept its natural beauty intact, away from being spoiled and exploited.

Pristine powdery white sand beaches, crystal clear blue water, an array of panoramic islands and breath-taking underwater scenery are just some of the things that came to mind when describing Caramoan. Adding to the spectacular work of nature is a culture with rich history and warm, friendly people. Continue reading “Travel Guide: Caramoan” »

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Clara and I were pretty pumped up after the wonderful time we spent in the scenic Lahos Island. We’re still on our island hopping adventure in Caramoan Peninsula and so far everything greatly exceeded our expectations. Everything was just teeming with vibrant color and perfection. The panoramic view surrounding us was enough to guarantee a sensory overload.

Blue Day - Caramoan Peninsula, Camarines Sur

Our next destination was Matukad Island. Docking posed no problem since the waves were relatively calmer and smoother, and as soon as our boat hit the beach, Clara and I eagerly hopped out. Continue reading “CARAMOAN | The legendary guardian of Matukad Island” »

Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2011 Joanna Jane Liwag