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When it comes to
searching for new places, people also look for enjoyment and
activities among others. But admit it; sometimes it’s also about
that word—relaxing.
If you think that Boracay is the only place the Philippines has this
summer, think again. This country has a lot to boast; some places
are just hidden.
PLAYA CALATAGAN
Just three hours away from Manila, there’s a beach waiting for
people to discover. Playa Calatagan boasts of 525 meters of white
sand located at the center of Calatagan swimming beaches. The beach
is still in its “natural” state and has a calm ambiance. What’s new
about it is the fact that it has a private resort exclusively for
the seaside community and a public commercial area.
Although this beach is still undiscovered, the townspeople are
envisioning it to be the “Boracay Party Place of Batangas”.
BALESIN ISLAND
It is located in Quezon Province. You have to ride a boat to get
there and you’d know you’re near when you get a glimpse of a white
strip in the horizon. Though getting there entails riding different
vehicles, including boats and all, this island doesn’t have anything
extravagant. It doesn’t have any assuming structure or standout
frontage; it’s just simple. It’s perfect if you want to escape from
your busy life and for a moment, rest and appreciate nature.
EL NIDO, PALAWAN
Among the best beach places in the country, El Nido takes pride in
its beaches, relatively untouched and unharmed by the hands of man.
Shimizu Island is a great place to take photos. You wouldn’t see a
lot of boats that destroy picture-perfect views. A large rock on the
back of the island, which serves as its trademark, as well as the
other rocks on the foreground, also gives a wonderful setup for a
family or group photo shoot. Aside from that, the saltiness of the
water is surprisingly not too much, something that even the kids can
tolerate.
Another island, Entalula is exclusive for tourists. El Nido’s own
residents are not allowed here. Visitors are encouraged to reserve
for a private lunch or dinner. The Entalula Island resembles Boracay,
but is fortunately private, something everyone would want. In fact,
with its fine white sand, coconut trees and rugged cliffs, it can
even be better than Boracay.
Those are just some of the alternative beaches which are easier to
reach but are just as relaxing (or even more) compared to other
beaches. Aside from just resting, you can also do other things
without getting stressed as with office (or school) works.
• Go
swimming. In the first place, why go there when you
wouldn’t really do so? Enjoy the sand and clear water.
• Watch and observe. Make certain that you won’t miss a
single detail of the beautiful view of nature. The
birds, the sea creatures, even the trees and rocks… Look
at God’s other creations.
• Take a ride. Enjoy each and every way of reaching and
exploring different islands, be it jeepneys, tricycles,
ships or small bancas, to even a bicycle.
• Go swimming… again. There are different sides on each
island that you, along with your loved ones, can dip
into after finishing the others.
• Stretch out for a massage. Ah surely one of the best!
What a nice way to truly pamper yourself after escaping
from work.
• Go boating. Enjoy the view, take pictures and go
nearer to the water without getting yourself wet.
• Have a meal as often as you want. Why not taste the
different fruits as well as the delicacies there?
Indulge yourself with such different foods and for a
moment try to forget about the word diet.
• The sunset. You’re at the perfect place to watch the
sun come down, either alone, with the family or with
your special someone.
• Picture, picture. Islands and beaches are truly
photogenic. Treat them as heaven for a day or week, in
which you really need to make souvenirs. And don’t
forget to pose, have fun and experiment in your “photo
shoots.” Bring out the model in you!
• Unwind, lighten up and relax. This is what you really
came for, right? Take in everything around you. Don’t
think about the future or the past. For a while, live
for the present and appreciate the things around you.
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