 |
| Mahatao gradients of greens and blues |
It took me two trips to Batanes before I was able to cross over to Sabtang and three trips before I was able to step on the northernmost inhabited island of Itbayat. Though it seems like my Batanes Three-Island Hop resembled an installment plan scheme that took five years to complete, I feel fortunate to be given as many privileges to visit. Truth be told, I never minded and with each trip, I discover something new.
 |
| Imnajbu - where the local version of Wuthering Heights was shot |
Admittedly, Batanes is one of my most favorite local destinations. After all, what's not to like there -- the laidback vibe, the incredible scenery, the un-polluted air, the simple life, the friendly locals. I remember being mesmerized by the rolling hills of Viang dotted by grazing, nonchalant cows, entertained by the stubborn goats in Imnajbu, and hypnotized by the raw beauty of Valugan.
 |
| Itbayat rustic scenery - green hills, blue waters, cloud-filled skies |
Over at Sabtang, I feel that an afternoon spent on Nakabuang Beach is simply not enough. Ditto, revisiting the stone house community at Savidug. A four-hour-boat ride away, I was fascinated by the vernacular grass houses of Raele which preceded the iconic Batanes stone house, the wilder coast of Pagganaman and the beautiful Sta. Maria Church.
Well, I guess the participants of our upcoming Batanes Three-Island Hop Photo Tour and Workshop this coming April 1-7, 2012 will be luckier than me. They'll be able to set foot on Batan, Sabtang and Itbayat in just one trip and see for themselves how beautiful this island group is. If you're interested in venturing northwards this coming Holy Week break, join us as we island hop Batanes. For more information or to register, visit www.backpackphotography.net or email backpackphoto@gmail.com.
