Ivan Tiamzon had the chance to travel to Baler with his friends (with a total of 13 cars on convoy!) recently. Baler is the capital town of Aurora province and is a 5-hour drive from Baguio. Ivan shares that this was the longest drive he has experienced so far, but points out that it was all worth it.
Baler is a great tourist destination and for 2 days, they were able to explore some of its wonderful natural attractions, including Sabang Beach, a long sandy shoreline with a soft and shallow ocean bed. “This is a haven for surfers and an ideal place for those who want to learn to surf,” says Ivan. You can also find numerous surf shops situated along the beach.
Their group also hiked up Ermita Hills in Mt. Dibudalan at Sitio Dicaloyungan, Barangay Zabali. “From the top of the hill, we witnessed the stunning view of Baler Bay, Dima-Dimangalat and Aniao Islets,” he shares. “We also went to a small waterfall called Diguisit Waterfalls and enjoyed a refreshing swim.”
He shares that crossing the Tibag-Sabang Hanging Bridge was also breathtaking with weathered planks of wood and fragile bamboo railings. “Another wonderful sight to behold is the century old Balete tree, which is located in the town of Maria Aurora,” he adds. The tree has a huge opening and you can climb its huge branches but be careful not to fall.
They also made another trek to some bigger waterfalls called Ditumabo Mother Falls in the town of San Luis. It is one of the major attractions in Baler. It got its name Mother Falls since it is the biggest waterfalls in Aurora province. This magnificent falls has a height of 140 feet and creates a rain-like experience within the area because of the strong current of water flowing from the top. “It truly is an awesome sight and a wonderful work of nature,” says Ivan.
During the trip, they also got the chance to tour Baler and visit different historical landmarks within the town proper. “We can say that food in Baler had a lot of interesting dining options to offer which will surely satisfy our cravings for good food,” says Ivan.
Last but not least, they didn’t forget to buy “pasalubong” to bring back home to their family and friends in Baguio City. According to Ivan, there are several souvenir shops within the town you can choose from to buy quality souvenirs. Watch their video here:
Ivan adds, “I have loved traveling ever since I was in high school and these will be the memories that can’t be replaced with money or material things. The bond I made with every single person I met and traveled with is irreplaceable. I’m actually an events photographer and I realised that, at a young age: who wouldn’t like to travel? So I was inspired by several travel bloggers around Philippines. I’m a graduating student, so for now, I travel less; but I’ll make sure it is all memorable. I encourage you guys to travel more while still young, but that doesn’t mean an older age will stop you, either. Visit Baler, it’s one of the best places to see in the Philippines! It is an experience for keeps.”
Got any travel stories of your own to share? Share them with us! 🙂
