The Visayan Trail

Traveling around the Philippines is indeed challenging. One reason for it is the country's geography. Unlike its Asian neighbors, where provinces and countries are only divided by an imaginary line that we fondly call borders, most provinces in the Philippines are divided by rough seas, stretching beyond what your mind can imagine.

It's quite easy to navigate by land when you are in Luzon and Mindanao. But in Visayas, it's a different story - it is a combination of land, air and sea. Despite the geographical challenge, Visayas is the most diverse island group of the country. The three regions - Western, Central and Eastern Visayas (Region VI, VII and VIII respectively) - have their own share of language, culture and heritage and a myriad of adventures.

Lost in Iloilo

Actually, the primary objective why I went to Iloilo last April was to study medicine at West Visayas State University (WVSU), but I didn't make it to the final cut... which was actually a good thing!

Jaro Church, Iloilo City, Philippines

But despite that, I was able to tour Iloilo with my cousin. A DIY tour, actually. In our first day, we went to the beautiful island of Guimaras and it was an awesome trip. But the succeeding days were more epic.

Journey to Ilonggoville: Guimaras Island

I must admit that I really, REALLY hate taking first flights.

You know, waking up at three thirty in the morning is not really my thing for I have to endure the ice-cold water from the shower and fight drowsiness. Oh, the laziness inside me.

Sunrise at Davao International Airport

It was around 4:15 AM when I finally arrived at the airport. I met up with my cousin and kaboom, a very long queue greeted us at the airport. But anyway we managed to squeeze our way to the check-in counter and waited for our 6:20 AM flight to Iloilo.

The sun was barely shining when we boarded the aircraft. One thing's for sure, I did not know what was in store for us . And oh, did I mention that my stomach constantly grumbled during the flight? Yeah, t'was a torture.

Flavors of Iloilo: Ted’s La Paz Batchoy

The April sun shone brightly as I climbed down the stairs connected from an Airbus A320-200 plane and walked to the tarmac of Iloilo Airport. While waiting for my cousin, I took a deep breath and welcomed the Ilonggo air to my system.

Finally, Iloilo na guid!

Like any other modern airports in the country, we had a long walk from the tarmac to the the arrival hall. My tita was already there, waiting for us.

(Ted’s Special La Paz Batchoy. Photo courtesy of efrenefren)

It was a long drive from Iloilo Airport to the city proper. We had the usual kamustahan stuff for a minute or two, then dead silence.

And my aunt knew the reason why.

First time travelers: What to Expect in Dinagyang Festival 2012

I was not in mood to do something productive because (i) my earphones got busted; and (ii) there’s a possibility that I may not join the Soccsksargen Tour 3 this coming September.

Dinagyang Festival dancers, photo courtesy of woofoo via Flickr.

I originally planned to sleep at around midnight when Marx sent me a message on Facebook.

It read: Renz, piso fare ng Cebu Pacific!