Adrenaline Rush @ Tibiao, Antique
If looks can be deceiving, Tibiao in Antique can do that. When you get to the town, you would think it's sleepy. But when you take a chance at knowing what you can do, you'll be thrilled to know that you can trek, kayak, swim and rock climb, if you so desire. This is because, up in the hills of Tibiao are several waterfalls that feed a river where there are boulders that create strong currents. However, getting there means trekking through some vegetation and accessing the upper tiers of the waterfall requires you to hold on to a rope and stand on narrow ledges.
Getting to Tibiao is easy, despite the absence of road signs. The bus that comes from the capital of Antique on Panay Island, passes in front of Tibiao's Municipal Hall. Perpendicular to it is the tourist office. When you get inside, you can see displays of Tibiao's products. You can find shawls made of piña and ceramics. The walls are plastered with tarpaulins showing your options -- whether it's kayaking, rock climbing or swimming. Once you're set, a vehicle will take you to the hills of Tibiao. |
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When the vehicle that's taking you has reached some point, trekking begins. A visitor to the area may be delighted to see a bridge which can accommodate only people or motorcycles, not four-wheeled vehicles. By the bridge, in the middle of the river are large boulders, with a tree growing on it. It would be fun to get to the boulders just by going through a gap in the bridge's chain link fence.
Past that, you're on your way to the waterfalls. You can refresh yourself in the lowest tier of the waterfalls. If you'd like to see the second tier, just scale the stairs to the side of the falls. It's similar to the stairs you see on a boat, but it's narrower; About half the width of a boat's staircase. Then you continue with steps of concrete and a handrail made of bamboo. When you reach the top, you can behold the second tier. If you can't stop the adrenaline, go to the next tier of the waterfalls. It's accessible by holding on to a rope.
Still thirsty for more? Go on a kayak ride. There's a hut that rents out kayak equipment, including life vest, helmet and, of course, paddles. If not, you can relax your tired muscles in a large vat. Large enough for a person to use it as a bath tub. Word of caution though. Don't go topless when cooling in the vat. It can create a scandal since it's out in the open. But you can request for additional amenities. Have some diced carrots placed with the water and up the water temperature a bit. If carrots are not your thing, why not place some wild flower petals instead?
Past that, you're on your way to the waterfalls. You can refresh yourself in the lowest tier of the waterfalls. If you'd like to see the second tier, just scale the stairs to the side of the falls. It's similar to the stairs you see on a boat, but it's narrower; About half the width of a boat's staircase. Then you continue with steps of concrete and a handrail made of bamboo. When you reach the top, you can behold the second tier. If you can't stop the adrenaline, go to the next tier of the waterfalls. It's accessible by holding on to a rope.
Still thirsty for more? Go on a kayak ride. There's a hut that rents out kayak equipment, including life vest, helmet and, of course, paddles. If not, you can relax your tired muscles in a large vat. Large enough for a person to use it as a bath tub. Word of caution though. Don't go topless when cooling in the vat. It can create a scandal since it's out in the open. But you can request for additional amenities. Have some diced carrots placed with the water and up the water temperature a bit. If carrots are not your thing, why not place some wild flower petals instead?
If you still have time and enough energy (and money), rent an outrigger canoe that can take you to Seco Island which is several kilometers off the mainland. It is mostly sand with a little vegetation and some huts; there are no necessary facilities (as of this writing) like a restroom or even a changing room. The waters surrounding the island is clear and is ideal for swimming or snorkeling. If you're lucky, you will be accompanied -- or shall I say welcomed -- by dolphins on your way to the island.
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