Masbate, is not like the other typical island in the Philippines that is often visited by tourists and foreigners. (In fact,) I couldn't remember seeing a foreigner on the island the last time I went there.
Living in Cebu, I often hear that Masbate is a dangerous island. Like any other travelers, I only knew a little about this hidden pearl of the island, I only heard how tough Masbateños are and the undeniable existence of rebels or the New People's Army (NPA) on the island.
I must admit I was frightened, but my 2D1N travel adventure on the island erased all my troubles and misconceptions away! Masbateños are genuinely friendly and accommodating (yes there is an existing conflict in the place) yet the dispute remains a political feud among politicians, and/so tourists and foreigners are safe!
And you know what, the rich experience that Masbate Island had offered me made me want to come back to the island! And so in this blog, I'll be sharing my 2D1N travel in the Rodeo capital of the Philippines-Masbate, and let's get enchanted together! In 1, 2, 3. . .!
🧭 Where is Masbate located?
Geographically, this rural island, Masbate, is located at the center of the Philippine archipelago and is at the crossroad between Luzon and Visayas. It has 3 major islands: Masbate Island, Ticao Island, and Burias Island. This fantastic island offers beautiful tourist attractions and rich culture.
🛫 How to get to Masbate?
By air, there are direct flights going to Masbate City. By ferry, ports such as Cebu City Pier, Polambato Port, and Hagnaya Port have ferries bound to Masbate.
*On my travel, I took the ferry from Hagnaya port to Cawayan Masbate. From there, I took a V-hire (Public Utility Van) going to the city. Travel time is less than two hours and the fare is 170 at that time.
🏫 Where to stay?
There are a lot of hotels in the city, from luxurious hotels to low-budget hotels, and from resorts that offer ocean views and mountain views, name it!
*But on my travel, I stayed in Sampaguita Tourist Inn as this is the cheapest in the city. (wink) Though it's cheap, it still gives comfort and convenience with an air-conditioned room, a Television, a comfort room, and a soft mattress just right as what my body craves after a long travel time. (Psst, I only spend 400.00 in the hotel, isn't it amazing?)
🌃 1st night in the city
Of all the cities I visited, Masbate is the most tranquil by far, with no nightclubs and bars, only a calm and relaxing atmosphere. You won't believe it, but at 7:00 pm as I wandered around, I could only count people by my fingertips. Only a few people were left strolling in the city, most of the stores were already closed and there were very few vehicles passing by. It was quiet and peaceful, so I went back to the inn, relaxed, and gathered all the strength I needed for tomorrow is a long day.
🌄 Day One
Mount Mayong Payong
To kick off my day, I head first to Masbate's famous Mount Mayong Payong situated on top of Brgy. Mobo, Masbate, a 45-minute ride from the city. Going to the top, I experienced a roller coaster ride. The road was bumpy and steep. I was screaming and laughing the whole ride! Even the habal-habal driver couldn't stop laughing at my reactions at that time I was very noisy, he said!.
Reaching the top, the ride was all worth it. You could see the Buntod Sandbar and the breathtaking scenery of Masbate!
Tips:It's good to visit there at sunrise or sunset.
(Cottages are available for night stay and to backpackers but there is no water supply in the mountain resort).
**Next stop: **
Mangrovetum
If you're like me who loves strolling, then you will love Mangrovetum too! Mangrovetum is a mangrove park grown naturally and is located in the city. The place is perfect for picture taking! It also has a viewing deck where you can see a panoramic view of the skyline.
🚕Yellow everywhere!
One of the most unique regulations in Masbate which I also considered a good tourist attraction was their pedicabs(three-wheeled vehicles). Pedicabs traveling inside Masbate were all colored yellow! So as long as you see yellow tricycles around you, it means you are safe and are inside the city.
Day 2
Island Tour with unlimited scallops!
Halea Nature Park - a piece of paradise! As we get close to the island, I could see how the deep blue sea changed to crystal-clear turquoise, and how the white sand was waving at me! The islet is a good place to get lost with your loved ones. *Eheeeem.
Catandayagan Falls.
Catandayagabn Falls in Ticao Island is one of the most beautiful falls in the province of Masbate. It is the only waterfall in the Philippines that plunge directly into the ocean. The mighty Catandayagan is standing 60ft tall from its base.
Buntod Sandbar
The gorgeous Buntod Sandbar is a marine sanctuary, home to unique marine life and corals. What makes it even more fascinating is its sandbar confidently stretching across the islet. Unfortunately, it was dusk time already when we reached the sandbar, nevertheless, I got to still felt the sand on my toes and left my footprints on the islet. Yeeeaayy!
Burubangcaso Rock formation
This charming monolithic rock formation is sitting proudly, surrounded by fine sand and crystalline water. My Burubungkaso experience felt like I'm in Arizona! Echussss.
We finished the whole island tour at 7:00 pm and had a barbeque feast on the street!
And that's my 2D1N escapade in Masbate! I only spent more or less 2,000 on my unforgettable travel, and on the Island tour, I availed of a package tour as a "joiner" that only cost me 990 pesos for four incredible destinations with unlimited scallops for lunch (Nyam, nyam, nyam)! Isn't it amazing? So what are you waiting for? Pack your bag now and head to the Rodeo Island, Masbate!
Takeaway:
My 2days and 1-night escapade in Masbate had brought me rich experiences in life. I realized that in life, You should not let fear and worries cloud your plans and goals in life. Rather take that step, leave your frights and wait for life to amaze you with glorious and impressive surprise!