ESCAPES
INTO THE STOKED ZONE: Japanese surfers brave Siargao Island’s sharp reef at low tide to catch some of the best waves that the Philippines has to offer. Photo by Mark Dimalanta
RUSHING FOR THE BEACH Pack your bags with lots of courage and adrenaline because we’re off to some exciting adventures! BEST FOR PRO SURFING Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte Pro surfers all over the world converge in Siargao Island to be in their element and compete in seasonal surfing competitions. Cloud Nine’s powerful, consistent waves from the Pacific Ocean is the prime draw of this small island. But even if you’re not a surfer, Siargao offers more than just waves. You can island hop to nearby Guyam Daku and Naked Islands. Take a boat ride to the beguiling Sohoton Cave, or try your hand at game fishing. The newly-opened Dedon Island is also the buzzword among local and foreign high-end travelers so check it out before everybody knows about it. It’s tropical chic at its best. And here’s something that even night 54 I Mabuhay Magazine I March 2013
owls can’t resist: the sunrise over Cloud Nine. Walk to the tower and watch as the sun’s rays merge into the majestic waves. Even Boracay doesn’t have it this good. BEST FOR SURF LESSONS Real, Quezon Consistent waves, long shoreline, and—best of all—a sandy bottom. Yup, you’re ready for your first surf lesson. The drive to Real is a picturesque one: zig-zagging cliff-side roads, lush hills, and wide rice farms. Best of all? No traffic. The surfing trip organized by Philippine Surfing Academy (PSA) takes the Rizal route versus the usual SLEX so you won’t come across throngs of weekenders. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by strong Pacific winds and a sight to behold: a long
shoreline with splendid waves. You’ll be led by the PSA team to the far end of the beach for basics then off you go for actual surfing. Just remember that surfing is said to be 90% paddling so get ready for some serious upper body workout. But once you’ve stood up for the first time, the feeling is priceless. A good side trip here is the waterfalls hidden in the forest. If you haven’t had enough of surfing, amp up your adrenaline and jump off from the top of the waterfalls. Shake off all your fears and inhibitions because you’re in for a thrill of a lifetime. Contact the Philippine Surfing Academy at www.philippinesurfingacademy.com. BEST FOR AN ADRENALINE RUSH Siquijor It’s not all witches and spells here, but you’re sure to be captivated by its natural charm. For starters, how about jumping off from a waterfall? Cambugahay Waterfalls in Lazi has a few tiers and you have to descend from the main road to reach them. The first level gives you a bit of a “Tarzan and Jane”