The country of thousand islands – the Philippines

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Exploring the capital Manila and the island of Mindoro– Travel log no. 95

My Philippines experience began probably with the worst flight you can imagine. The airplane left Taipei at 3 am. Luckily I met a really nice Filipino Carl who was my seat neighbor.  After arriving in Manila he even gave me a ride to the bus station and made sure that I would get on the right bus. From there I made my way to Puerto Galera on Mindoro an island 4 hours away from Manila.

Boat, Philippines
Firstly the transfer to the island of Mindoro with the double rigger was a real adventure.

Even though the boat was small, I made it to Puerto Galera save and sound. Following that I checked into the Badladz Diving Resort which was right next to the Marina. In addition to that I rented a scooter to explore the island alongside diving. At Badladz I met some really nice people and had some awesome dives. Unfortunately I still haven’t received the dive pictures of my Buddy Michael. Never the less I will add the pictures later on.

The island reminds me a lot of Hawaii. Furthermore people here are still nice, friendly and helpful and not yet spoiled by tourism. One day I took the scooter to explore all the falls near by.

Tamaraw Falls, Philippines
First I visited the Tamaraw falls which are passing by right below the curved street.
Falls, Mindoro
Light is breaking through the dense jungle. Mindoro with it’s curved street right next to the ocean reminds me a lot of the Highway to Hana on Maui.
Valley, Mindoro
After two hours of riding the motorbike I finally made it into the remote valley.
Falls, Mindoro
People here live remote and mostly from their own farm products. I made my way to the last fall wading alongside and through the river.
Farm, Philippines
Following that I passed by some farms. Here the cattle is relaxing freely right next to the plants.
Valley, Mindoro
Finally I made it to the end of the valley.
Tukuran falls, Philippines
Unfortunately these falls are not as beautiful as the first falls. Never the less I enjoyed the natural pool. Especially because of being completely for myself.
Takarun Falls, Philippines
The view into the valley.
Takuran Falls, Mindoro
Lastly looking up the Takuran falls before hiking 45 minutes back to the scooter.
Fillipina, Philippines
Still can’t believe the hospitality of the Philippines. These three ladies guided me to and back from the falls for all but a tipp?!
Street, Philippines
The drive back home with the setting sun was probably even better.
Sanbang Beach, Philippines
A view from Sanbang Peninsula.
Sabang Beach, Philippines
In addition to that Sabang Beach the main city with clubs and bars.

After 4 days, some good dives with sea turtles and exploring the beautiful island I had to head back to Manila.

In the capital I met Carl again who showed me around through the busy streets of his home town. Manila is a huge contrasts if you start out exploring the beautiful remote islands.

Carl, Philippines
A picture of Carl and me. I hope I can return the hospitality as soon as you make it to Germany my friend!

Finally I flew off to Singapore. Again in the middle of the night but excited to meet one of my best friends Johan again who now lives there.