MALAPASCUA

Let’s just say that this day reminded me of everything I hate about travelling. I woke up super early to catch a tricycle that would take me to the port. Then I had a two-hour ferry ride to get to Cebu City, the capital of Cebu Province and one of the main transport hubs for the island. From there, I got on a bus to Maya Port at the northern end of Cebu. The journey that was meant to last five hours tops lasted seven.

Once at the port, I was too late to catch the public boat that would take me to my next and final destination. Instead, I had to pay an exorbitant fee for a private bangka that would take me to the island of Malapascua. In trying to save some money by catching public transport, I ended up wasting more time and money. I swore I’d stick to my bougie tendencies – at least when it comes to transport.

But hey, I guess it’s about the destination and not the journey after all. Having arrived just before sunset, the island seemed like nothing less than paradise. Malapascua Island, a small tropical island off the northern tip of Cebu, is known for its laid-back village charm, sandy paths, coconut palms and friendly locals, where one can expect the perfect mix of adventure, tranquillity and authentic island life.