Isla Del Sol, Philippines

by Lanox I have long stopped trying to figure out whether I’m a city person or a nature dweller. I can be both. And as much as modern layout designs and architectures try to create pockets of nature around the metropolis, there would always remain that call to be near the sea, trees, creations in their natural habitat. The idea that traveling widens one’s perspective seems vague and literal at the same time that we seldom pay mind to it as a concrete phenomenon. But it is a fact. Somehow even the simple activity of looking at little waves, searching for faces randomly formed, sticks to mind to be a source of good imaginings on days when good things seem to be less than abundant.
Before I go on and become completely lost in my rememberings, let me tell you a little about the most recent trip I had. My purpose being for you to go on one of your own, then if you can, tell us about it as well. Let’s go.
This is Isla de Sol, a private island just about an hour from the nearest mainland, Catbalogan City. This is one of my favorite places on earth, for very simple reasons, some easily seen through photographs. Come on, let’s have a look around.

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Hanging Out, Isla Style

My favorite spots on the island, a kitchen and tambayan (left) in one and duyan by the sea (centre). Need I say more? Oh yeah, fresh fish for lunch!

After a good meal or to take a break from swimming, a walk can be had to the back of the island. One can pass through a mini forest that although covers only a small area is still dense enough to create a canopy of leaves, creating a cool feel underneath despite the sun being at its peak—natural air-conditioning. 
And after that short trek through the mini jungle, this view awaits you. Google map can try, but it won’t ever compare to firsthand seeing. 

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Island Flower Power

The island is home to various plants. Shown below are just some of the many beautiful island flowers around. If anyone knows of their Latin names, please comment on. That would be greatly appreciated. I will try to figure them out as well when I get the chance.

When I was a kid, we used to play a flicking game with this flower. Yes, poor flower, we really had to flick hard to tear a petal out. It’s not as easy as it seems. A petal can take a few rounds of flicking before it loses hold. Don’t worry, as I remember, we had lots of this growing around to keep the game sustainable. And then there’s the sweet santan (Ixora coccinea), after you taste the nectar of which can also be strung to make a bracelet, necklace, or crown, using varied colors in alternating patterns.

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Island Souvernirs Encore!