Always Wandering

Mad about travel

A number of my friends get their high from running or climbing. Most ladies I know get theirs from shopping. While some from a quick caffeine or chocolate fix. I go mad over travel. From scouring the best beaches to discovering adventure travel. From spending a lazy afternoon perched on the hotel balcony to getting…
December pic(k) of the month

I end the year with hope. I end the year without a plan. I end the year clinging to life as I know it now. “Life is without meaning. You bring meaning to it. The meaning of life is whatever you ascribe it to be. Being alive is the meaning.” ~ Joseph Campbell “Live as…
Natib’s insurgent leeches

View from Mt. Natib Yes. Leeches. Limatiks. They have declared war on us. As if I have not had my fill and fair share of the infamous mountain bloodsuckers of Makiling, I found myself saying yes to another climb involving such a major-major concern. This climb is popular not only for its leeches,…
Batulao’s scenic peaks

Mt. Batulao No wonder mountaineers keep coming back to climb her. For one, Mt. Batulao looks very pretty and cotton candy-like with her white-capped peaks. From afar, the grass-covered peaks provide a stunning view of the mountain’s slopes. Tall cogon grass and its seedheads sway to the tune of the wind. Mt. Batulao is…
November pic(k) of the month

Dear Iron Man: You are not the only one with a glowing heart. My slightly enlarged heart is all aglow as well. Like you, I will chase dreams, never give up, ignite the passion and finish whatever has been started. Here’s to always being out and about. xoxo, Kiss
October pic(k) of the month

I especially love this picture of you and your dad after your dance. I’m always emotional when it comes to dads and daughters. Being the first in our circle to embark on a new chapter and take on a new role, always bear in mind that we will join your ride through all the joys…
September pic(k) of the month

Dear Ina of Penafrancia: In Naga City, September is always your month of celebration. In solidarity with my fellow Bicolanos and your devotees, we celebrated our 300 years of devotion to your guidance and healing power this year. As millions troop to your home in the Basilica, the city comes alive and pulses with the…
A mountaineer’s verse

I tread the soil of the earth, And sway with the trees. I smile at the bright sun, And watch the rolling clouds. I savor the moonlit night, And lie under a blanket of stars. I whisper with the cold wind, And welcome the dance of raindrops. I am one with all the elements. I…
Tapulao’s rocky trail and pine trees

Rising to 2,037 MASL, Mt. Tapulao’s cardiac trail, albeit wide, straightforward and clear, is covered with rocks over a 16-km steep path. The cool temperature, especially at night, affirms its being dubbed as the poor man’s Pulag. Boring at first with the seemingly endless long and winding road to the campsite, Tapulao’s bareness transforms with…
Traversing the enchanted mountain

For one, I was not confident my right knee will be able to hold up. Number two, I am not a fan of spirits and bloodsuckers, both of which fairly occupy the mountain. With a big bag of salt and my ever go-go mood when it comes to trips, my eight friends and I set…