I have never imagined myself going to this remote island. Although we were made to memorize some bits of information about Batanes during our elementary days, it never really caught my fantasy to one day travel to this far away land.
The province has been getting some good publicity lately, thanks to those who went and came home with only good memories.
Daughter and husband were one of those who wished to go someday.
And that someday came just recently.
Oyen booked our flights, hotel and tours as early as September of last year.
She also paid for everything. Birthday blow out daw nya. so kaming tatlo, free rider lang.
The day before, thursday, March 6, she asked me if I were excited to go to Batanes. I said no. “I am excited to go to Bordeaux” I said. Not for anything, the only reason being was that I am scared to go to the provinces kasi nga sometimes they lack the infrastructure like a good road network. Medyo maarte ako, ayokong mahulog sa tulay na kawayan. At takot nga ako to take a smaller plane.
Our Skyjet flight was at 5:30 am, super aga. I couldn’t fall asleep the night before kasi I was worried baka ma-late kami.
I was able to get some sleep siguro mga 1:30 am na, and I was in the shower by 2:30 am. Who takes a shower at this hour?
3:15 am I woke-my companions up “Tart, gising na”. “Anak, wake-up”, “Yen, wake-up”.
We were at the Skyjet check-in counter at exactly 4 am. Antok na antok ako.
Ang aga namin.
Skyjet took off on time
I didn’t expect there would be snacks and drinks.
We’re in Batanes by 6:40 am.
The plane landed smoothly and quietly on the short runway.
I instantly felt the fresh air and cold breeze.
Batanes’ highest mountain and dormant volcano, Mt. Iraya, at 1,009 meters high, provides the backdrop for the small airport.
It was a little foggy when we landed. Ang sarap ng hangin.
I couldn’t believe we’re here.
The airport staff was busy asking the passengers to move inside the building because another plane was landing.
He was patient and polite.
That was our plane.
First timer, Batanes tourist.
Here’s our airport pick-up, sent by the hotel. Airport transfers are included in the package.
I couldn’t wait till we get to the town. I bought na agad one t-shirt for P275.
I was still looking at some of the merchandise, I heard my husband calling me na. Our bags have already been loaded. We’re leaving.
The hotel is on top of a hill. Hmm, fresh air talaga.
Oh wow, the spot where Fundacion Pacita is perched on is amazing.
Our home for the next three days.
To be continued
