Life is a Joni

I only know 2 islands in Compostela Valley province---one is Pindasan and the other is Kopiat . Although both are highly treasured and protected by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources , the former is less famous because it is a mangrove wilderness while the latter brags its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear water, thus making it more recognized by many. Kopiat is an inhabited island, as far as I know. That means no electricity, no daytime vendors. Considerably unspoiled, the island has been a favorite site for diving, picnic and relaxation. I had a chance to visit the island with my college friends two years after our graduation. Since there's no accommodation in the island, we stayed at the nearby resort,  Bern Berioso II . We reserved the island tour for the next day. That night, we spent our time catching up with each other. Early morning, we hired a boatman to ferry us around the island. While waiting f...

Lush vegetation. Who would've thought that with just few miles away from the town proper of Maco , you can find a place perfect for nature adventure! Unknown to many, even to some locals, an interesting body of water lies within the mountain's lush vegetation. The multi-tiered river that runs through several pool-like rock formation is an interesting place to discover. Added to it is a waterfall with a natural slide. The rock is so smooth that you don't have to worry about your shorts being tattered. Right now, the place is not yet developed for tourists. Only those who know the area can enjoy it. Actually, the place was only suggested to us by a friend upon hearing us talking about our next summer destination. Although it is undoubtedly refreshing, I don't recommend anyone to go there without a guide. At least one of you is recognized by the locals for security reasons. We hired a motorcycle to take us there. With us were food good enough for the whole d...

Compostella is not only famous for its hot springs. Far from the volcanic vents of the province flows a freezing river of New Bataan . Several resorts were developed in the area offering great amenities for your delight. One of the top destinations is Bamboo Garden Resort . It has a large pool, activity area and an access to the nearby mountain stream. New Bataan can be traveled via bus from Davao City. There is a direct route coming from Ecoland Terminal . Travel time is about 4 hours or more. Upon arriving, you just need to have a short motorcycle ride to the resort. It's uphill but the road is cemented, so there's nothing to worry. I don't know how much the entrance fee was because my trip was sponsored by a good friend whose boyfriend is a local resident. I haven't stayed there for so long. It was just a short visit. Still, the trip was worth remembering. I can't forget how I shivered when I dip into the pool and dive into the river. It was ex...

At work, me and my team buddies customarily go to places for a break. Samal beaches are popular destinations. But this time, we tried something different, a bit farther from Davao. All was set and we're off to Toyozu Hot Spring Resort in Nabunturan, Compostella Valley . About 3-4 hours from Davao City, Toyozu is a favorite spot not only among locals but also for foreigners. It offers Japanese-inspired pools, sauna tunnels, picnic huts and overnight cottages. So if you're planning to spend your night at the resort, big rooms are available at reasonable prices. Ours was, I guess, Php1500 only and we are like 12. It's also advisable to bring your own food. Most visitors do so. Although there are a number of stores outside but they hardly sell meat or fish. And so before heading to the resort, we went to the public market to save ourselves. It took us another 30 minutes to travel. The road was rough and winding. It was almost lunchtime when we arrived. The first thin...