I received a call from one of my closest cousins, Cheryl. She invited me to join her on her trip to Tacloban. The reason why she wanted to go to Tacloban was because of her younger sister, Jean Ann. She is working there as a medical representative. So we visited Jean Ann and and explore the beauty of Tacloban and Leyte.
We were supposed to arrive in Tacloban early in the afternoon but we arrived late due to delayed flight. Well, that's life. We met with Jean Ann at Tacloban Airport then we went to Calle Z, one of her favorite bar and restaurant. They have good food. It's a good place to hang out to.
On our official first day, we first went to Canigao Island in Matalom, Leyte. The area is known for abundant fishing grounds and scenic coral reef areas suitable for diving. The beaches have white sand, with tropical sea creatures and extensive coral reef in the surrounding waters. We only stayed half day.
After lunch, we went to Agas-agas Bridge in Sogod, Southern Leyte. It is said to be the tallest bridge in the Philippines. It was built to avoid the perennial landslide dangers in the area during heavy rains. Due to tourism potential, they are planning to have activities for tourists but only the zip line is operational which we tried. It was awesome. It's longest zip line I've tried so far. After we got back to the hotel, we met with Jean Ann's friend and had dinner at Ocho's Seafood and Grill. My cousin has good taste for restaurants. She didn't disappoint our stomach.
On our second day, we went to General Douglas McArthur Park in Palo, Leyte. It was created to commemorate Gen. Douglas MacArthur famous parting words “I Shall Return” that he made good of his promise before he left the country after its downfall to the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II. After that, we drove around the famous San Juanico Bridge. It is the longest bridge in the Philippines that stretches from Samar to Leyte. Then we had lunch at Pasqualino's Ristorante Italiano. It's an expensive ristorante but the place will amaze you since they have overview of the famous San Juanico Bridge. As I said earlier, my cousin has good taste for restaurants.
After 2 long days, it's time to go back to Manila. We really enjoyed our stay here in Tacloban. Thanks to Jean Ann, we were able to see the beauty of Tacloban and Leyte. It was a good experience.
Canigao Island
Canigao Island
Agas-agas Bridge
General Douglas McArthur Park
San Juanico Bridge
Pasqualino's Ristorante Italiano
Pasqualino's Ristorante Italiano
