Charm Explore Journey

Welcome to the last island in the Philippines, Batanes a special place known for its wild scenery, peaceful views, and friendly people. It’s the perfect spot for anyone wanting to take a break from busy city life.

Stranded in Paradise: My trip to Batanes was full of surprises. I got stuck there because of some crazy rainy weather, but I didn’t mind. Batanes has a way of making you feel at home, even when your plans go off track.

Breathtaking Sights and Tasty Treats: Batanes is like a dream come to life. Everywhere you look, there’s something beautiful to see – like the Marlboro Hills and those cool stone houses. And don’t even get me started on the cookies – they’re delicious!

The honesty store in Batanes is a unique concept where customers can purchase goods without any staff present. Instead, they simply take what they want and leave payment in a box, relying on the trustworthy system. It’s a proof to the trust and honesty within the community.

A Lesson in Patience: Sometimes, things don’t go as planned when you’re traveling. But in Batanes, even delays turn into adventures. I ended up staying longer than expected, which gave me more time to explore and learn about the local culture.

Embracing the Simple Life:One thing I loved about Batanes is how simple everything is. There’s not much phone signal, so you have to put down your devices and enjoy the moment. It’s a great way to relax and appreciate nature.

What in Batanes?

1. Landscape: Batanes is characterized by its dramatic landscapes, with rolling hills, cliffs, and lush greenery. The iconic stone houses, known as “Ivatan houses,” add to the picturesque scenery.

2. Culture: The Ivatan people have a distinct culture and language. Their traditional way of life, including fishing, farming, and craftsmanship, is still very much alive in the islands.

The Pacita Abad Foundation is based in Batanes. It’s dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of the renowned Filipina artist Pacita Abad, who was born in Batanes. The foundation aims to support local artists and cultural initiatives in the region, continuing Abad’s commitment to art and social activism.

3. Relatively Isolated: Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines and is relatively isolated from the rest of the country. This isolation has helped preserve its natural beauty and traditional way of life.

4. Lighthouses: Batanes is home to several picturesque lighthouses, including the iconic Basco Lighthouse, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding seascape.

5. Traditional Ivatan Cuisine: The cuisine of Batanes is unique and influenced by the island’s geography and resources. Traditional dishes include coconut crab (tatus), flying fish, and other seafood delicacies.

A Fresh Start: Batanes isn’t just a place you visit – it’s an experience that stays. It’s where I made memories that I’ll cherish forever and where I found a new outlook on life.

In short, Batanes is more than just a destination – it’s a new place that moves you heart and soul. So, if you’re looking for an escape from the everyday grind, Batanes is the place to be.