Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Beach Bumming Batangas - Calatagan & Laiya

One thing I am sure that I could do all day is to beach bum! Give me a good book, music, shades, and seat by the beach and I am all good.

I was invited last May 2-3 at Burot Beach in Calatagan, Batangas by an officemate as part of their team's outing. It was thrilled to learn that there were no electricity in the area so we have to pack like we're going for a camping trip.

We arrived at the site at almost sunset and we were able to witness the beauty of the sun setting down over the beach.


It was also my first time to set-up a tent! When the night unfolded, we started to find it difficult because the entire place was only lit up by bonfires or torches. The next morning, we took the opportunity to explore the beach.





The view's breath taking. If you plan to escape the hustle and bustle of the Metro, you could try this place for complete detachment of the stressful life.

Another beach beauty is in Laiya, Batangas. My BFFs from college planned our summer getaway last May 11 at La Luz Beach Resort. We enjoyed the wonderful beach views while talking over our lives.




I was told that our resort used to be the place where a tv series (Dyesebel) shot its scenes. The natural rock formation was truly spectacular.

This beach bumming experience of course couldn't get any more better with spending quality time with the best girl friends in the world.

I could totally say that Life's a beach! :)

Surf's Up at Baler, Aurora

Baler is the provincial capital of Aurora. It is identified as one of the top surf spots in the country. Getting there will take around 6-8 hours depending on the route one will take. Our company's department outing commenced here last May 9-10 2014.

On our way, the GPS directed us to take the aurora memorial national park route wherein we experienced the roughest road ever. Our car's tires were just inches away from the mountain's ends.


On the lighter note, we were able to witness the mountain's natural beauty during this memorable route.


Arriving at Sabang Beach, we were all exhausted and hungry so we had our late lunch to fill our growling stomachs. We headed to Hungry Surfer Restaurant. (Perfect name!)



After the sumptuous meal, we finally regrouped with the rest of our department. We had the usual team building activities wherein our team lost! :( We need to drink alcohol as a consequence.


We attempted to play frisbee along the shore but ended up laughing out loud because most of the players don't know the rules. Then some of us chose to swim for about 30 minutes before having dinner.



We then had dinner and had another team building activity where we lost again! After that, we prepared for our performance (like an initiation) as newbies in the company. To cap off the night, we had our socials to keep up with each other's lives outside work.


We got up very early despite staying up late because we are excited to finally surf! :) We put our rash guard and headed to the beach!



It was my first time to surf and I must say these muscular legs had been but into good use! Waves aren't that high so it's perfect for a beginner like me. Balance and timing is the key if you really wanna ride with the waves!

After the surfing session, we prepared to check-out and had our lunch by the beach.


Since we still have time, we decided to pass by the largest Balete tree in Asia. It was indeed humongous!


We took the Pantabangan Route heading home and it was relatively smoother and safer. :)

Baler did not fail to give me a YOLO moment. I am truly blessed to have experienced the waves of Sabang Beach!