My first post since returning back to the Philippines. For the past two weeks, I busied myself eating my favorite food, visiting the gym every morning, and waiting for the results of my job applications. Current temperature in our province, Negros Occidental, ranges from 32 - 36 deg C, and coming from a comparably colder weather, I needed some splash to refresh. Luckily for me, the gym I worked-out at schedules a summer get-away at Lakawon Island Resorts and Spa.
crystal blue waters
did it come down from the sky?
a wishing starfish
/totomai
I have heard lots of good things about Lakawon since my elementary days but never had the chance to explore the island. As per their official website
Lakawon, also called Llacaon, is a 16-hectare, banana-shaped island off the coast of Cadiz in the northern portion of Negros Occidental, a province in the Negros Island Region of the Philippines. It is the home of TawHai, the biggest floating bar in Asia. more here
From Bacolod City, my hometown, it is 1.5 - 2 hrs drive to Lakawon. Then another 15 - 30 mins boat ride to go to the island. But do not mind the travel time, the crystal clear waters and white sand are waiting to embrace you. Add the hot hugs of the sun, you may wish to stay underwater for a long time. If you are into starfish, you can see a lot scattered on the seabed, shores.
me - photo taken by Ivan
Most of my friends told me that Lakawon has improved a lot. It now has accommodation, restaurants (including TawHai - claimed to be the biggest floating bar in Asia). I think if the island has more trees, it would have been perfect. But so far so good, not too crowded and family will enjoy the place. The guests are requested to bring back their garbage, which I think is a great rule especially if we want to preserve the island.
my favorite shot last Saturday
We stayed until sunset. I say it again, the Philippines has gorgeous sunsets. If you love sunsets, just book a ticket to the Philippines. Perhaps you’ll have to book a one-way ticket because you will be definitely staying here. I can be your guide, if the price is right. Ha ha!
I brought my DSLR camera but was too shy to take it out and use it. So I abused my mobile phone in taking photos and videos. Hope to see more of the Philippine beaches and sunsets while I am still here.
lakawon sunset from jacklord in japan on Vimeo.
/totomai
2017/05/07
Photos and videos taken with iphone 6s
Oh the water looks heavenly.
ReplyDeleteLuv the Surprise of Line 3 in your haiku
Thanks for dropping by my Sunday Standard today
Much love...
Perhaps, we can make a wish upon a starfish too haha. Thanks Gillena
DeleteIt sounds that you do the best of your time between jobs... It looks like the perfect place to be with that sunset...
ReplyDeleteMaybe I'll shift my hobby to sunset watching, Bjorn
DeleteHow absolutely gorgeous, Totomai! I hope just the right job turns up. I personally think National Geographic should put you on staff. Have you ever submitted photos to Them? They might publish some. You are that good.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sherry, I thing Nat Geo requires experience and expertise. I am still learning :)
DeleteThis is soo incredibly beautiful, Totomai!
ReplyDeleteThanks Sanaa!
DeleteThank you so much for sharing these beautiful photos, this place looks wonderful. That blue blue sky is amazing. Wishing you well with the job hunt.
ReplyDeleteSummer in the Philippines now, Truedessa. Too hot though
DeleteWhat a beautiful part of the world. Thank you for sharing it with us!
ReplyDeleteMy pleasure Bev
DeleteHahaha Great pictures... but, the one with you? Made me smile, you looked liked a proud man.
ReplyDeleteThe Haiku was perfect.
Glad to see you again and I look forward to many more creative adventures with you. Your photography is as incredible as your writings.
ZQ
PS: What the heck is your... I don't now what it's called, you know the screen that comes up first... It's huge! I have to scroll down and saying a Hail Mary by the time I get to your work. :)
ZQ
I am not sure what you mean, but I set the viewing panel to small to be seen correctly in PC and mobile views. And my blog has no ads.
DeleteThanks ZQ
wow, gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteThanks ayala
DeleteWow! Beautiful pictures and I so enjoy your commentaries. The haiku is lovely, as well. Your posts carry me away. I agree with Sherry - National Geographic, sounds like the perfect employment fit. You have such a wonderful attitude towards job seeking. I admire your ability to stay motivated: continuing to seek out the beauty in the day ... while waiting for 'that call'. I know from experience, that staying positive and committed, takes willpower and strength of character. It will pay off! It always does. Smiles.
ReplyDeleteThanks Wendy, if I will pressure myself in getting a job I guess that will make crazy and unhealthy. Pace is kinda slower but sooner I'll get it. Fingers-crossed
DeleteThank you for those beautiful photos. I wish I could book a flight. The Philippines sound delightful
ReplyDeleteI can be a guide, Myrna
DeleteBeautiful... hard to pick one island to visit in the Philipines! Hope to see atleast one soon!
ReplyDeleteHope you can visit one, I am trying to go island hopping haha
DeleteLovely to witness the start of your new adventure. I'm glad (for all our sakes) the Philippines also has beautiful places to inspire your poetry and photography.
ReplyDeleteThanks Rosemary, I will try to explore the Philippines :)
DeleteWhat a treat it is to visit your blog Totomai. I am sure many will guess what you wish for.
ReplyDeleteI think it's obvious, Robin. Thanks!
DeleteHappy tenth blog birthday - your post is as always warm and full of life
ReplyDeleteThanks Jae :)
DeleteWhat a stunning place, with the colors of that sky and waters the idea of a wishing starfish doesn't even feel like fantasy. Thank you so much for the glimpse. It was a wonderful window to wake up to!
ReplyDeleteSuch a beautiful sight to behold! Your pics totomai have always been perfect!
ReplyDeleteHank