I've been to Bicol region several times in the past, But there's something in Bicolandia that makes me always wanna go back. So after almost 2 years since my last visit, we planned a trip to Bicol Region to explore and re-discover its sights and wonderful natural beauty and attractions.
June 11, 2015
It all started with an early morning flight to Legazpi City, Albay via Cebu Pacific Air's CebGo! The flight was very early; so as I expected, we left NAIA terminal 4 on time. No flight delays yet, because of air traffic congestion. Yey!As I had very limited sleep the previous night, I just slept almost the whole time during our flight. But before we landed, this majestic view of Mayon Volcano greeted us. Amazing indeed!
Arrival in Legazpi City
We had our breakfast upon arrival at Legazpi City airport. I am happy to see how the airport changed a lot. It is newly-renovated which made it more appealing! We then proceeded to the transport terminal and took a passenger van bound for Donsol, Sorsogon. Travel time from Legazpi City is about 1.5 hours and fare is 75.00 pesos each.Beach Resorts in Donsol, Sorsogon
In Donsol, we checked-in at Amor Farm Beach Resort (see room rates). We chose this resort because it is located very near the Donsol Tourism Center where Butanding Interaction Tours can be availed. Our room is is a fan room with 1 double and 1 single bed which costs 1,000 pesos per night good for 3 persons.SEE ALSO: Amor Farm Beach Resort Review
[ Click here to search for hotels and resorts in Sorsogon ]
Butanding Interaction Tour in Donsol
At the resort, we met Ej and Abi. We asked them if we could join them in their Butanding Interaction Tour so we could save on cost. I'm glad they agreed! So we went with them to the Donsol Tourism Office to avail the tour which costs 3,500 pesos per boat for a maximum of 6 persons. We also paid 100 pesos each for the environmental fee.Whale Shark Watching in Donsol, Sorsogon
After a short briefing and orientation about the do's and don'ts during the Butanding interaction tour, we proceeded to the boat docking area. We were assisted by 4 guides - one spotter, one BIO (Butanding Interaction Officer) and 2 boat crews. This is our boat for the Butanding Interaction Tour.Whale shark watching in Donsol usually happens from March to May. After this period, there's only minimal sightings of the friendly whale sharks. So our spotter and BIO tried their best in finding the butanding. Luckily, it didn't take too long before we found a whale shark swimming in the waters.
The experience is truly amazing! I am so happy to finally experience the Butanding interaction tour here in Donsol Sorsogon! We actually saw 2 whale sharks! Ang saya! :)
NAKAKAPAGOD!!! Hindi ko makalimutan kung gaano kahirap ang tumalon sa boat kapag may Whale Shark na paparating. Pagtalon mo sa tubig, swertihan pa kung makikita mo yung butanding. Ganyan sa Donsol! Hindi sila parang pet ng mga locals na magpe-perfrom kapag may mga turista!
So, if you want to see the whale sharks, PLEASE do it in #Donsol!
After 2 sightings, it took a while before we see another one. So we decided to just go back to the resort and had lunch. Then we took a nap and woke up at around 5:00 PM.
I went out of our room and proceeded to the beach. And this is the breathtaking sunset that greeted me. What an awesome way to end our first day in Donsol!
We planned to do the firefly watching at night; but unfortunately, it rained so we just decided to cancel it. Maybe next time. It's a good reason to come back to Donsol. :)
[ CLICK HERE TO SEE THE TOP-RATED RESORTS IN DONSOL ]
Where to Stay in Donsol? Please check out my review of Amor Farm Beach Resort.
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The beginning of a great adventure. What a great trip! I can hardly wait to read more.
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