What To Write In Your Diary When You’re In Batanes

When we travel, most of us would like to take pictures. The rest of us would write about it. When you fly to a place like Batanes, you will have things to write in detail. The ideal place to stay for an accommodation would be Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge. Not only you will stay there for the comfort, but for the ultimate and unforgettable experience you may never find anywhere else in the Philippines.

When you stay in a hotel that is owned by a famous artist, it is for sure you will have plenty of things to write in your diary of the well-designed and natural rooms. What’s more interesting is what’s beyond your retreating place when you stay in such an accommodation. When you’re a writer and you like to do a little scrapbooking or two, here are four things you might want to take note of during this kind of trip.

Nature - Take time to observe their climate while you’re there. Are the trees, grass, stone, and other natural sources still in place when the weather gets rough? If you’re someone with a green thumb, write something about the plants they have and other pieces of greenery you may not find in the city.
Colors - When you’re the person of the arts, you will find plenty of colors in Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge. There’s a gallery inside but you’ll see a lot of them outside as well. Write down your favorite spot right outside the place and perhaps do a little self-reflecting on life in general.
People - Batanes is known for the people and their background. Get to know them or maybe write some questions that’s appropriate to ask like their culture, their recreational activities, or more about Batanes history. Who knows you might write a short story about them.
Food - The reason why Cafe de Tukon exists because of their well-made fresh foods. Besides writing about your favorite dishes, describe the process and how’s it different from the city foods you eat.
So, during your stay in our unique and extraordinary Batanes hotel, these are the things you may want to write for inspirational stories based on the things you see in their surroundings. For a lovely experience such as this one, then plan a vacation here by booking directly at https://www.fundacionpacita.ph/

Bask in the Beauty of Basco: 6 Top Attractions to Not Miss in Batanes' Capital

A former weather station affording a 360-degree island view and an art museum at Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge are only some of the sites to not miss in Basco. If you're visiting this part of Batanes, then this article is for you. Here, we're giving you a shortlist of the top attractions that will let you fully embrace the beauty of northern Philippines.

1. Mt. Iraya

Known as the most active volcano in this part of the country, Mt. Iraya stands at a towering 3,310 ft. Among the activities you can try here are mountaineering, trekking, and trail blazing. From Basco, you can reach its top in about 3 hours. This volcano, with its previous eruptions, is responsible for the island's very rich soil.

2. Radar Tukon

Looking for a spot from where you can have a great view of the island? Head to Radar Tukon, a former United States weather station located about 2.75 from the town proper. Among the remnants of the radar's serviceable days is the broken satellite dish lying in close to the tower. But what really lures people in to this landmark is the unmatched 360-degree view of the island from its tower.

3. Ruins of Songsong

If ghost towns excite your curiosity, Basco also has an attraction right for you. Located around 23 km from the town, the Ruins of Songsong is a cluster of roofless shells of old stone houses that were abandoned after a tidal wave that hit the island of Batan in the 50s.

4. Sto. Domingo Church

Among the first limestone structures built during the Spanish rule in the country, Sto. Domingo Church has been a top landmark in the province since the early 1800s. Two years after its construction, Dominican friars ordered to add a convent beside the church, drawing in masons, stone cutters, and carpenters from Cagayan.

5. Valugan Bay

Just 3 km from the town lies Valugan Bay's unusual coastline. A popular spot for those who wish to meditate and simply feel the island's tranquility, the beach has an interesting texture and blend of hues from its fine, white sand and smooth, multicolored rocks. These rocks are said to come from Mt. Iraya. The beach itself easily covers a kilometer of the shore.

6. Fundacion Abad or Pacita Abad Museum

What was once the abode of internationally acclaimed artist Pacita Abad is now a museum and top accommodation in Batanes. Here, the public can view an exhibit of her paintings, while also having the option of enjoying a great retreat at Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge (Contact Number: +63-939-9016353).

Behold The Wonders of Nature and Pages of History in Batanes, Philippines

There's no better way to enjoy a Batanes, Philippines getaway than by staying in a place like Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge. Set atop the rolling hills of Basco, this hotel presents breathtaking vistas of the ocean and verdant surroundings. And from this charming abode, travelers will definitely enjoy very convenient access to various natural attractions and heritage sites in the province. Among these are:

Wonders of Nature

1. Valugan Bay
This boulder beach that boasts a long stretch of white sand and multicolored rocks is perched on the eastern part of Batanes. Here, you can find your much-needed peace and quiet while watching the waves. Only 3 km from Basco proper, Valugan Bay is one of the best sanctuaries in the province where you can commune with nature.

2. Sabtang Island
Situated 30 minutes away by faluwa (boat) from Batan, Sabtang Island is a picturesque haven that is home to Nakabuang, a pristine white sand beach. It also displays an array of vahay (old houses) that feature authentic traditional Ivatan architecture. This island was once declared by the Department of Tourism as one of the 12 best places to visit in the country.

3. Marlboro Country
Locally known as Rakuh a Payaman (pasture area), this famous site commands magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. Apart from seeing the beautiful scenery, you can also have a fun-filled encounter with the horses and cows that dwell in this grass-covered hill. Marlboro Country also sits in Batan Island and is located near a few Batanes accommodations.

Pages of History

1. House of Dakay
Built in 1887, this UNESCO World Heritage Building is regarded as the oldest surviving house in the town of Ivana in Batan. Named after its owners, the House of Dakay bears the unmistakable imprint of Ivatan architecture that is characterized by cogon roofs, and thick walls made of lime and stone. Its unique design is conceived to provide a durable shelter that can stand strong winds and typhoons.

2. San Carlos Borromeo Church
San Carlos Borromeo Church boasts an impressive espadaña-style facade, limestone walls, and a stone-made beaterio (house of nuns). This sanctuary was established by the Dominicans in 1789. The National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) recognized this church as one of the Philippines' National Cultural Treasures.

3. The Lighthouses
There are 3 known lighthouses in Batanes that were built to guide and warn fishermen and sea navigators. These are located in Basco, Mahatao, and Sabtang. The 6-story Basco lighthouse is placed in Naidi Hills, while the Sabtang lighthouse sits on a rocky cliff. Meanwhile, the 17th-century Mahatao lighthouse, which is the smallest and oldest among the 3, is nestled on high ground close to the San Carlos Borromeo Church. This location is a short distance away from Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge.