More on Bicol, More on Mt. Mayon

Mr. Ping Arcilla, DOT Asst. Director and a skilled mountaineer, said that Mayon's peak is reachable in 2 days. In going up Camp 1, which is 2,500 feet above sea level, hikers come across springs, cogon and pine trees. On Camp 2, which is about 5,000 feet, solid rocks abound and followed by loose sand and rocks. From 7,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level (the peak of Mayon), there is no more vegetation ---it's a desert of sand and gravel! This summer, I hope Mt. Mayon is not anymore hopping mad and she would permit me to taste the spirited climbing adventure as described to me by Mr. Arcilla. So next time I can vividly tell you how it feels to trek this mountain, and it would be on the first person account.

After that Mayon Volcano National Park visit, we headed off to the birthplace of the unheard Bicolano composer of the legendary folksong "Sarungbanggi". (I'll prepare for you another story about him). The composer's house is at Barangay Calayukay, which is also in the town of Sto. Domingo.

Finding the composer's house was very tricky that we almost got lost in the inner roads, but by no means I got bored. In fact, I was very fascinated viewing Calayukay's enticing beaches, and hoped we could step out of the car and stroll a little. Mr. Arcilla said the place is indeed known for having good-swimming areas in a very affordable price. Its nearby town, Bacacay, is also identified for fine-sand beaches where water sports like kayaking are offered. However, if you are looking for diving spots, the best getaway is at the tiny island called Rapu-Rapu (southeast of Legaspi City), Mr. Arcilla advised. The waters around this island abound in coral reefs, with an added attraction of a Spanish galleon shipwreck.

A weekend getaway was never enough to pamper myself in a place endowed with nature's wealth. It was too hard to squeeze in itineraries, too hard to leave the place half-discovered. Well, I soothed myself, that's why there is always a summer vacation that hopefully would give me greater time boundaries.

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