Sagada is the natural next stop from Banaue as it provides a taste of some interesting culture and small town vibes. I mean, surely hearing the phrase ‘Hanging Coffins’ is enough to get you there?
Author: Marc
Hiking to the Batad Rice Terraces – a photo journal
Northern Luzon in the Philippines is home to the best rice terraces I’ve seen in the past 10 months. Couple this with quaint villages to hike through and sleep in, it makes the region really special. Here’s a photo blog of our journey to the terraces, and a little practical information as the internet is lacking in good advice for the region.
Manila – a pleasant surprise!
Getting to Manila wasn’t a quick process. It meant a 6 hour train followed by 5 hours of flying, but it was worse for the South African contingent making their way to the capital of the Philippines – 16 hours of flying isn’t that much fun either!
Kawah Ijen – such high hopes but the weather destroyed them!
The Ijen Plateau is home to a massive volcanic crater, complete with blue burning sulphur fires at night and a turquoise lake. It has all the critical ingredients to make the 1am wake up and hike worthwhile.
Gunung Bromo and the Sand Sea – massive Wow moment!
Mount Bromo is an active volcano in East Java – it is set within some of the most otherworldly landscapes I’ve seen. Technically, the vast area below the crater is called the Sand Sea (what a cool name) but it looks more like the landscape from an alien movie. Getting here wasn’t all fun and games though!
Yogakarta and Dieng – temples, craters and logistical headaches
I’ll be honest, the past week has frustrated me from a logistical point of view. I was guilty of seeing Java as an island, thus relatively easy to get around. I was so wrong. Java is not linear and the logistics are a pain in the arse. Nonetheless, I had a decent time in Yogyakarta and Dieng, with one or 2 other hurdles along the way…
My 5 week Malaysian itinerary
My original plan was to only spend 3 or 4 weeks in Malaysia, but it’s so easy to love the country. It was actually difficult not to be tempted and extend my stay for a few more weeks. Here is my 5 week itinerary – maybe it will come in helpful if you’re planning a trip there.
Pangandaran – a hidden gem
Pangandaran is on the map as it’s where people come to learn how to surf. I’m not a surfer but came here to explore its natural charm and left today feeling completely fulfilled. From canyons, jungles, valleys, black sand beaches and abandoned shores, I love this place.
Jakarta – Sh1t.Hole.
Jakarta – that city that you’re warned about. Cautioned to get in and out as quickly as possible. Warned to watch out for pickpockets. Warned about the traffic, the pollution, the water. I took this all on board but wanted to see this place anyway. The advice was warranted…
Dinks in Transit 