Reminiscing Bicol

Mayon Volcano, the perfect cone shaped active volcano of the Philippines, is in the province of Bicol, which is the southernmost tip of Luzon. I’ve always been curious to go, having had friends from the University who lived there. I’ve heard so much good things about Bicol, but it was just so long a drive from Manila, that I’ve kept on postponing a trip. Until I saw photos from my niece’s quick holiday to Bicol – that’s what motivated me to finally go.

We were able to book promo airfare tickets from Cebu Pacific, and arrived around noon. As soon as we boarded off the plane, Mayon Volcano and its grandeur captivated me and D.

We stayed at Balay de la Rama Bed & Breakfast in Daraga, Legazpi. It was close to the tourist spots, and we were also able to arrange for a day tour through them. The famous ruins of Cagsawa was walking distance to the hotel so it was one of the first places we went to the next day after sunrise, in the hopes of beating the tourist crowds.

Shortly after, D and I went to an ATV adventure. We rode through black sand, streams and a forest. We had such a blast! Later D and I would compare our tan.

After the ATV tour, we went to Lignon Hill, another place with a view of Mayon. We also went for a quick stop at the Hoyop Hoyopan cave, which was a cool relief from the temperature outside. Our guide told us that the cave played a significant part for the refugees during WW2.

Lastly, we went to the Daraga church. Built by the Franciscan priests in 1773, Daraga church sits on top of a hill overlooking Mayon. Its architecture style is Churrigueresque Baroque, and was built using volcanic rocks.

I know that my weekend in Legazpi was too short. I would love to go back to Bicol this year, perhaps to go swimming in Donsol, enjoy the water sports at Camarines Sur, or bask in  the sun at Caramoan beach. These destinations are definitely in my bucket list for travel in the Philippines.