ADVENTURE
Batangas
BEACH
Fortune Island
Local
Luzon
Philippines
Vacation
white sand
Fortune Island, Batangas: Forgotten and Abandoned
4/04/2015 10:00:00 PM
It feels like the place doesn't deserve its fate. Yes, to be abandoned and less-noticed. I have hesitations whether the photos online are for real or just the end products of Photoshop.
It was just a day tour escapade and I was invited by 2 of my colleagues at work, my fellow bloggers, Louise and Paolo of www.jendialouise.wordpress.com and www.intothewilddd.wordpress.com. So we left Manila at 4am boarding the Nasugbu bus route in LRT Buendia-Taft bus station. Travel time takes 2-3 hours. We arrived there at 6am and waiting for our contact to pick us up. Everything was arranged by Louise, (check www.beyondconcept.wordpress.com to know her) and you need not worry where to alight the bus since the final bus stop is where you need to be at.
Since we still have time, we grabbed the opportunity to eat breakfast; Jollibee is open 24/7 where you can wait for your contact to meet you. We chose to get a packaged inclusive of boat transfer, packed lunch, and entrance fee for only P1000.00. You may choose to bring your own food and cook it there but we're only 3 so it's would be best to join a group and get the package. Boat rental is for P4000-P5000 good for 10 for day tour only and additional if you're staying overnight.
We're very lucky to be assisted by the policemen who are volunteers in the island. They even joined us on our boat trip to make sure that we arrived safe in the island. You know, they're good swimmers and you'll never know what to expect in the island. Just kidding, the place is safe and not a part of the Spratly Islands. Also, they're our curators telling us stories and the history of the place.
The island used to be frequented by can-afford vacationers, an island beach resort owned by the former Governer Leviste. It has its own helipad, villas, pool, lighthouse, and the Greek-inspired architecture on top of the hill. It also used to process its own fresh water. But now, expect not those I mentioned as you can see the looks of the main lobby at the back on the above photo. The structures are still there and you can pitched your tents inside or under the trees as the sun is really scorching hot.
Make sure to be there as early as possible. I was lucky that it wasn't crowded yet as we're one of the earliest boats to arrive.
Make sure to look for where cliff diving is. The water is really so inviting that though I don't swim on deep waters, I was not able to resist its charm.
If we're on the same case, you may ask your boatman to borrow the life vest so you can enjoy the crystal blue-green waters. Trust me, the water is really that clear.
This is the type of place that no matter how high the sun and the heat is unforgiving, it doesn't matter. You may choose to enjoy the area at the front if you're not comfortable with cliff diving.
Make sure to bring lots of water, soda, and/or beer in a bucket of ice. You may request that from the tour contact and just pay extra. Sunblock and rash guard are advisable if you're trying to protect your gluta-white skin.
Again, don't mind the scorching heat of the sun. The waters will even out the temperature.
The shore is a little rocky with broken shells and corals but bearable. You can still walk barefooted. If you're decided to visit this island this summer, you may reach Mommy Sarah at 09394895292. I recommend her coz she's like a mother and would really take care of the guests from start to finish. I spent less than P1500.00 for this trip.
Total Expenses
Bus from Manila to Nasugbu - P160
Tour Package - P1000
Breakfast at Jollibee - P110
Chips and drinks - P200
Nasugbu to Manila - courtesy of Jay and Sab since they have a car with them and they're heading back to Manila too.
Total - P1470.00
1 comments
Great Share!
ReplyDeleteI always prefer paddle boating which actually gives me complete body workout in which every muscle of the body is used at some point of time.
I think every should try sailing it is actually an hilarious act if it is done in exciting way.
Keep sharing!