Niceties Of Life

There are trips that simply leave a mark on your heart, and then there’s my recent adventure to Camiguin Island—a small but mighty gem in the Philippines. As usual, I did a solo trip to this island born of fire. Majority of my friends are city girls, and one who is as adventurous as I am have been there. Therefore I had no choice but to go solo, and I remember stepping onto the shores of this volcanic paradise, greeted by lush greenery and warm smiles that made me feel like I’d just stepped into a dream.

The Journey Begins

There are different ways to get to the island depending on where you are coming from, one option is to fly to Cagayan De Oro city from Manila and then take a ferry ride to the island. However me being the convenient type of gal and also has pelvic injury, I decided to fly to the island, from Manila via Cebu. Currently there is no direct flight, so best way to go is book Manila-Cebu-Camiguin.

Visitors are required to register and this can be done ahead of time online, just go to this site https://islevisitcamiguin.com/visitor/step1/ . If you forgot, registration can be done online at the airport, you will not be allowed to step-out of the airport unless you have registered online. Also you need to keep the QR code as this is required once you leave the island.

The moment I arrived at the airport in Mambajao, I was bubbling with excitement, my mind racing with all the adventures that awaited me.

Embracing the Local Vibe

After a 30-minutes tricycle ride from the airport, I finally found myself in Camiguin, nicknamed the “Island Born of Fire,” due to its origin from volcanic activity.

As soon as I checked into my cozy beachfront bungalow, I set off to explore. I meandered through the island’s quaint streets, and each twist and turn revealed local markets brimming with tropical fruits and handicrafts. I savored my first taste of *binakol* (chicken cooked in coconut), each bite bursting with flavors that felt like a direct embrace from the island itself.

Waterfall Wonderland

Next on my list were the famous waterfalls. I hopped on a motorbike—rented from a friendly local—and set course for Katibawasan Falls. Picture this: cascading water plunging almost 250 feet into a serene pool surrounded by lush ferns and towering trees. I couldn’t resist a refreshing dip, and let me tell you, the water was cold and rejuvenating after the slightly bumpy ride!

Trailblazing Up White Island

After drying off in the sun, I made my way to White Island, an uninhabited sandbar famous for its breathtaking views of *Mount Hibok-Hibok*. As I stepped onto the pristine white sand, I was greeted with the backdrop of the volcano, and I felt a wave of peace wash over me. This was the perfect place to snap some explode-on-the-feed pictures, and thankfully, my friend was game for my impromptu photo shoots!

Sipping on Paradise

As the sun began to set, I found myself at Sunken Cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful site. Here, the old cross standing on the water is a remnant of a volcanic eruption that submerged a part of the town. It felt surreal to reflect on the history while watching the sky immerse in vibrant colors. The atmosphere was magical, and I couldn’t help but snap a million photos!

Trekking at the Peak

The ultimate adventure awaited me the next day as I prepared for a hike up *Mount Hibok-Hibok*. It was my chance to push my limits and be rewarded with a panoramic view of the island. The trek was challenging but also invigorating; the lush flora around me felt alive. Once I reached the summit, the view was breathtaking—forests, coastlines, and the expanse of blue surrounding me. It was a true moment of triumph.

The Warmth of Camiguin

Beyond the stunning landscapes and thrilling activities, what truly made my trip remarkable was the warmth of the locals. Every encounter—be it at a nearby eatery or while exploring hidden spots—was filled with genuine smiles and stories that made me feel like I was part of something special.

Farewell, but Not Goodbye

As I boarded the plane back to Manila, my heart was full of memories that I would cherish forever. Camiguin Island had captured my soul with its beauty, adventure, and the kind-heartedness of its people. I left with promises to return and explore even more, for I knew that this wasn’t just a fleeting vacation. This island had woven itself into my being, and I was already dreaming of my next trip back to this enchanting paradise. So, fellow travelers, if you’re looking for a destination that combines adventure, culture, and nature, *Camiguin* awaits with open arms. Trust me; you won’t regret it! 🌴✨