An unforgettable Chris-mas

The balcony of our beautiful nipa hut overlooking the beach at the Kookoo's Nest

After spending a couple of relaxing days down at the Kookoo's Nest in Dumaguete, Jacky, Lulu & I headed north to the province of Ilocos Sur to spend Christmas with my good friend Chris Herring and his family. 

Their house is situated in the middle of a huge plot containing several other dwellings occupied by various members of his wife Rowena's extended family. It was fascinating to experience the closeness of such a vast array of generations as they gathered together during the festive season.

In the days preceding Christmas, we explored the local coastline and visited the nearby town of Vigan, renowned for its Spanish colonial architecture.

On December 24th a family pig was slaughtered at the local abattoir and then roasted on a spit in the garden.

On Christmas Day there was an enormous family celebratory BBQ at the beach complete with karaoke machine.

Needless to say a wonderful time was had by all.

Many thanks again Chris to you, Rowena and the kids for making it a holiday to remember.

Siquijor - Island of the Dark Arts

Last month Jacky and I visited the beautiful island of Siquijor in the southern Philippines. 

Due to the fact that all Filipinos associate it with Black Magic (and therefore mostly refuse to go there) it has remained very uncommercialized. Consequently exploring the island interior on a motorbike, where tarmac roads lead you up into the hills populated by remote communities, is an absolute joy. 

Likewise, travelling the scenic coastal road enables you to stop off at some wonderful beachfront eateries and restaurants, such as Eric the Viking. The island as a whole has such a laid-back vibe to it that it almost feels as if time has stood still.

Hot food for sale at the roadside

Local fruits and vegetables available at the market place

 A bamboo and tin hut among the palm trees in the hills

At the Butterfly Sanctuary in the middle of the island

A carabao (water buffalo) relaxing by the roadside

 Swinging on the famous Tarzan Rope at Cambugahay Falls

 A local about to get wet

Jacky with Eric the Viking

The CR (Comfort Room) out back

Washing clothes in the local river

The original wooden floor in one of Siquijor's oldest churches

To get there, after flying in to Dumaguete, you first have to undergo a 90-minute ferry crossing on a boat well and truly manned by a skeleton crew. Their own personnel list gives no indication that anyone more highly skilled than a quartermaster is in charge of the vessel your are sailing on!

No Master, Chief Officer, Chief Steward, Steward, Chef Cook, Chief Engineer, Second Engineer or Electrician on board our ferry the Reina Magdalena. 

It's definitely more fun in the Philippines!