Caramoan Peninsula - Camarines Sur, Bicol

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Backpacking and island-hopping in Caramoan

“Did you see that?” “I saw one!” “Me too!” It was pitch dark, we were lying on the beach staring at the star-studded sky. It was our second night of star gazing and this night must have been really special for we couldn't keep count of “falling stars” in the evening sky. Except for our voices, it was quiet except for the gentle lapping of waves a few meters from us, on the eastern and western sides of this small, secluded island.

What a fantastic way to end a full day of swimming and island-hopping. Islands big and small, craggy peaks, sheer cliffs and limestone formations, white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters, hidden lakes ---- these remind me of an earlier trip in Coron, Palawan. But there we were in Caramoan, a virtually unknown paradise in some remote part of Camarines Sur in Bicol. The long 8-hour trip from Manila, another 2 hours by bus, 2 more hours by boat, and 30 minutes by jeep and tricycle was well worth it.

The early afternoon was too hot, so we just lazed around the beach, underneath a canopy of a big tree. At one time, two boatloads of tourists dropped by our island and looked around. I could just see the quizzical look on their faces as they left. Why would the three of us want to spend night alone here?

All I know is that I'm too tired of crowds. When we arrived at Gota Beach the day before, the place was teeming with people. The kapitana welcomed us and as luck would have it, some local officials were there. We were introduced to the mayor, a councilman, etc. Nice folks and hospitable people. I sighed with relief when I saw a more private area in an adjoining cove. It was there where we camped on our first night.

Gota Beach was practically deserted when we went back on a Monday morning. Our boatmen waved goodbye as their boat sped off towards the sea. I wonder how many tourists and adventurous souls they have toured around Caramoan and whether each one found what they wanted. I can speak for myself. Even for a couple of days, I found peace and quiet. I felt ready again to fight the daily battle in the urban jungle. Someday I will go back to share the beauty and serenity of the place with more of my friends.

Info on photos

I took all photos using Nikon N80 and 28-80mm G lens. Film: Kodak Supra 100. Scanning was done at the lowest resolution possible for faster loading.

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