Finding Serenity in Pagudpud
Even when you can find serenity amidst the chaos and bustle in the city or at your workplace, you'll want to hie off to a place that is conducive to rest, relaxation and reflection. If this is what you want for yourself, head to the northernmost tip of the island of Luzon in a town called Pagudpud. In a town of just over 23,000 people (as of the 2015 census), and a land area that is almost twice that of Disney World in Florida, there's ample space to breathe fresh air and treat your senses to blue waters, green fields and rice paddies, and maybe the sound of gushing or falling water.
If you just want to see the world go by and feel the sometimes strong breeze, spend time at Pagudpud's Saud beach. If you hit the beach early in the morning, its two-kilometer stretch would be a great track for jogging or just a lazy stroll. By sundown, it can be the perfect spot to watch the sun go down and disappear into the horizon. If you want to watch locals go about their daily grind, hit Pagudpud beach. It's where fishermen congregate to haul in their catch. Notice their coordination and patience in untangling their catch from the nets. Since they are not into industrial fishing, they don't cause the pointless deaths of marine animals like sharks and dolphins that often get entangled in fishing nets used by large fishing boats.
If you just want to see the world go by and feel the sometimes strong breeze, spend time at Pagudpud's Saud beach. If you hit the beach early in the morning, its two-kilometer stretch would be a great track for jogging or just a lazy stroll. By sundown, it can be the perfect spot to watch the sun go down and disappear into the horizon. If you want to watch locals go about their daily grind, hit Pagudpud beach. It's where fishermen congregate to haul in their catch. Notice their coordination and patience in untangling their catch from the nets. Since they are not into industrial fishing, they don't cause the pointless deaths of marine animals like sharks and dolphins that often get entangled in fishing nets used by large fishing boats.
If you need to clear your head, try trekking to Kabiga Falls. The distance in trekking to the waterfall, amidst nature, will hopefully give you enough time to sort out your thoughts. By the time you reach the waterfall, you may have benefited from the walk: improved mood and a feeling of ease. An alternative may be Bulu River. Some people find it refreshing for body, mind, and soul. Experienced kayakers will find getting knocked about in this river a heady experience; Kayak rentals can be availed of in resorts around town.
Pagudpud is indeed a place of flowing waters. A place which features a small waterfall (but not for swimming) is Paraiso ni Anton. The waters that meander through the hill are believed to have healing powers. That is why, some people go to the place bringing containers -- to collect some of those Adam's ale -- to relieve their illnesses. (Several stories abound as to the name. Nobody seems to know what is real.) For those wanting a dip in freshwater, there's Aqua Grande River. The part where the river meets the sea has been turned into a park where you can use picnic tables and the river-fed pool for a fee.
Pagudpud is indeed a place of flowing waters. A place which features a small waterfall (but not for swimming) is Paraiso ni Anton. The waters that meander through the hill are believed to have healing powers. That is why, some people go to the place bringing containers -- to collect some of those Adam's ale -- to relieve their illnesses. (Several stories abound as to the name. Nobody seems to know what is real.) For those wanting a dip in freshwater, there's Aqua Grande River. The part where the river meets the sea has been turned into a park where you can use picnic tables and the river-fed pool for a fee.