Part 2 of Batanes Entry
Travels

Beyond the Rolling Hills featuring. Honest Batanes Part 2

Batanes is not limited to breathtaking views and amazing sceneries. If you take the whole tour, you will be treated to a delightful experience that will take your breath away.

Here’s the rest of the story of my take on Batanes.

Day 2 (Continued from here)

From where I left off on my previous entry, we were at the start of the South Batan Island Tour. After writing our well-wishes on the blank books at the Blank Book Archives near San Carlos Borromeo Church, we headed off to see the exquisite Mahatao Tayid Lighthouse.

Lighthouse on the right overlooking the rolling hills of Batanes
Lighthouse on the right overlooking the rolling hills of Batanes
Mahatao Tayid Lighthouse
Mahatao Tayid Lighthouse
Me at the door going in the tower
Me at the door going in the tower
Me, perched on a man-made rock terraces looking up yonder
Me, perched on a man-made rock terrace looking up yonder

Next up was a quick lunch stop at Marconines situated at the entrance of  Racuh a Payaman or the famously called Marlboro Hills.

View of Mahatao Tayid Lighthouse from Marlboro Hills.

Just as we thought there’s nothing prettier than that, we headed off to see Alapad Hills and Rock Formation, and Lo-Ran Old Naval Base, with the tour guide giving us a proper dosage of the history of the place. It was equally fascinating to see the rock formations and the mesmerizing seascape that made them what they are.

Rock formations in Batanes

Next, we were driven off to the quaint little town where the famous Honesty Coffee Shop is located. It is a small coffee shop with a self-service system, a system rare in the country. You pay for your goods by dropping the exact amount in a concealed box with no cashier assistance. Hence, the name. I think this store stands as a symbol of one of their core value, one of which is honesty.

The Honesty Store in Batanes
The Honesty Store in Batanes
"This store is too small for dishonest people."

Moving on, we stopped by another village where the famous stone houses were everywhere! The House of Dakay, in particular, is a popular photo spot because of its unique history and unusual state. We also took a moment to admire the beauty of the Old Spanish Bridge before heading off to White Beach and Hohmoron Lagoon.


That concluded our first tour of Batanes, officially called the South Batan Island Tour. It was fascinating to see all the natural beauty that the locals have genuinely preserved. Their love and devotion to their environment were so evident to me, and I’m sure any willing tourist would notice their warm welcome to everyone who visits their home.

Indeed, I realized that Batanes is more than just its beautiful rolling hills and the majestic seascape that surrounds it. It’s the deep respect and pride that the locals have for their homeland that truly makes Batanes exceptional.

Other Batanes Related Posts:

I wish there were more places like this in the world. If you know one, can you suggest it in the comment section below?

I am Jena, an experienced content creator, who is passionate about travel, health and wellness, and fashion. I'm an avid traveler and digital nomad, who loves to craft and sew and who has some IT background. I aspire to help others with 'no niche' online find their voice and just express themselves. 

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