A Quick Trip Back Home: Camotes Island

The salty sea breeze. The sparkling aquamarine sea under the rays of the sun. Ship blasting its horn signalling its arrival. People carrying their bags. Oh, what a familiar and nostalgic scene!

Hi, there! It's me — Jo. For today's blog, let me take you on a trip to the place where my heart always finds its comfort, Camotes Island!

My mother is from Camotes Island. During my childhood years, I spent my summer vacation there and it always felt so short when it was time to go back to the city. I still remember getting excited when classes were done because I looked forward to seeing my grandparents and spending my vacation listening to my Grandpa's stories, accompanying my Grandma wherever she goes, mind you, I always feel very healthy when I'm there(haha) because fruits and vegetables are so abundant, you won't crave for junk foods! Aside from all these, you may still wonder why the island became a haven for me. Well, continue scrolling down and you'll find the answer.

Last June this year, my mother was supposedly the only one going home to Camotes to attend to some family matters. However, it was very fortunate of me and my sister that the semester already ended which means we can definitely tag along. So, we packed our bags and headed to the port!

One thing I always anticipate whenever I go home is going to the beach. Camotes Island has so much to offer when it comes to its beaches, some are commercialized and there are still those who remain hidden, especially to tourists.

On our second day, my family decided to spend the day together on the beach and that really made me ecstatic. This time, we went to a different beach than the last time to have a change of scenery. It was not crowded, the shoreline was clean, and the waters were crystal clear. It was the perfect beach getaway that I never knew I needed after ending the semester.

The following day, I was invited by my cousin to accompany her for a morning hike together with her high school friends. It has been so long since I climbed a mountain, so, I immediately agreed. On our way, all I could hear was the chirping of the birds, the rustling of the trees because of the wind, and the faint voices of the people preparing for the day ahead. Sure, I did catch my breath from the hike as someone who isn't really into physical activities, however, the view above was enough to set aside my aching legs. It was marvelous. To see everything from above makes you want to live. Despite the struggles from climbing the mountain, you won't hesitate to do it again if this is what awaits you at the top. Indeed, it's worth it. Camotes Island will always be a place I'd go back over and over again. It's my breather — somewhere I can silence the havoc in my mind. The tranquility and simplicity will definitely lure you to come back.

I hope you enjoyed reading my blog! I appreciate your time and effort for stopping by! See you in the next one? Thanks! ❤️