Batad Rice Terraces

Batad Rice Terraces

One of Philippines World Heritage

...and the fog comes in...

From beaches to mountains, the beauty of this country knows no end. 

It took me 2 hours of mountain trekking to reach this World Heritage up North. I was with some experienced mountain climbers and they said that for a first timer what I did was no joke. So when we reached the place they gifted me with a shirt that says, "I Survived Batad Rice Terraces".

I never liked mountain climbing or trekking. I did it once in 1995 and I promised myself I would never do it again. I never understood why these people, the mountain climbers, get this kind of high when they go up a mountain. I could not relate…until our Banaue and Batad expedition recently.

Anyway, the hike was not easy, but I took it easy. I did not pressure myself. I bid my time and just enjoyed the view. Walking through the winding path by the mountainside with all the green surroundings, gave me a feeling of calmness. At the same time it saddened me because most of the people that we crossed paths with that time were foreigners. But when we reached our destination, I was in awe. I was speechless at the sight of such beauty. My spirits lifted, and seeing what was before me gave me a sense of pride. Pride that I am a citizen of this country with all of its wealth. 

A friend once said that the beauty of this country are reserved to those who are willing to get dirty and sweat their butts off. Believe me, it’s worth all the sweat, dirt and mud at the end of your journey! A most rewarding experience! J