Seven in 7 days! (Part 1)

By the time I wrote this article, I may have had recuperated from exhaustion. But my tan lines are still visible. Reminding me of the 7-day adventure I tackled around our very own Region VII.

Playing host to a good friend cum travel partner from the U.S., I always have to design an itinerary fit for his more-often-than-not less than three-week visit. On his nth time in Cebu, I had the challenge to list newer destinations as I figured we pretty much covered all the major tourist spots in the province over the past years.

So months before my friend's scheduled arrival, I researched on some of the places I have read in travel magazines, newspapers and, more importantly, recommended by friends who made their discoveries either by chance or through recommendations.

ISLAND NEXT. With a beach house in hometown Liloan as my playground while growing up, the islands across our eastern horizon have always caught my curiosity as a child. I remember every family picnic I end up asking my parents or aunts the name of the group of islands that seems to block the endless sea. The word "Camotes" often escapes my young mind. Now, with travel as a growing passion, I thought it's time to visit the next door island!

Truth be told, I have heard mixed views on Camotes so that I had previous reservations of a trip there. I have been able to round the northern isles of Bantayan and Malapascua (several times actually) and that of Mactan's Sta. Fe, Olango and Nalusuan. That left me with Camotes as the final choice. Thanks to friends and relatives who visited the nearby islands, who raved so much of their experiences, I was swayed of my inhibitions and finally made the leap.

Okay, okay, after years of traveling, you somehow develop a skill to map out every minute detail so as to ensure a leisurely holiday. Now, I'm a sucker for a hassle-free excursion. So, when accommodations and logistics were in place, I was off with my guest and a couple of wacky friends.

Getting there is practically a walk in the backyard for me. Already based in northern Cebu, the port of the City of Danao is just a ten-minute ride. But the showers and wind that evening clouded our enthusiasm and excitement. With the weather so unpredictable this time of the year, you really can't be too sure of what you're getting into. Luckily, Mother Nature was on our side very early that Wednesday morning. Along the coast of Compostela, we already set eyes on an iron-flat body of water stretching all the way to our destination. And with the sun creeping behind the dark clouds, it was a promising sight to behold!

Spirits high and excitement restored, the pump boat ferry left the port at exactly six in the morning. With fresh air and the gentle sway of the vessel made the hour-and-a-half cruise smooth and relaxing. Then, twenty minutes before our arrival I saw a mirage-like vision (I just woke up from my nap while cruising) of the Camotes group of islands magnificently lit by the rising sun! Docking in the port of the Consuelo a little before eight, we immediately embarked on our jeepney ride towards our resort (for the adventurous spirit. The habal-habal or motorcycle scooters that carries more than one passenger - the island's common means of transport - is an interesting alternative) where a heavenly surprise awaits.

Tucked in the western side of the Pacijan Island (one of two large islands of the Camotes group) is a little piece of heaven known as the Mangudlong Rock Resort. My skepticism of Camotes melted the moment I set foot on this tiny piece of paradise. With only less than twenty well-appointed rooms, the resort charms with inviting crystal clear waters and a white sand beach that seems to shift shapes with the tides. And adding allure to this already perfect sanctuary are natural rock formations just a walk (or swim) across the coast perched with native huts.

With my body battered with too much partying the past nights, I found myself adrift in deep slumber on the beach with the sounds of the gentle waves and the gush of fresh breeze as my lullaby. I woke up a little past one just in time for some tan while we ordered lunch. Now being on an island, meat is not an option. The freshest catch everyday is literally right at your doorstep. All right, all right, the restaurant actually has a menu variety suited for your taste. But I tell you, go for the sea foods!

Revitalized and energized it was time to frolic and enjoy the rest of the day-and not to forget my tan! And as the magnificent sunset bathed the resort with its golden rays, my groupie and I lounged on the beach, rum and coke in hand, raised our glasses and cheered to the good life.

We continue our adventure on my next installment. I promise it's going to be double the excitement!