I initially wanted an overnight stay on Olanggo Island—but the group preferred to explore the group of islands dotting the Camotes Sea. My younger, more energetic self would have thrown a fit. Camotes Island for the fourth time?!
But I’ve reached an age where even engaging in a debate feels exhausting. Even writing this blog took months. RIP to all those trips I haven’t had a chance to document yet, buried beneath the weight of countless other commitments.
You see, this isn’t how most of us imagined growing up. We all had these glamorous visions of what adulthood would be like: having loads of money and the freedom to do all the things we were prohibited from in our youth. But reality hits hard; it turns out everything is a scam.
Long Weekend Trip to Camotes Island with the Titas
After meticulously dancing through our ‘hectic’ work-from-home schedules, we finally managed to take the trip out of the group chat (finally!). At the crack of dawn, precisely at 5 AM, we were en route to the Cebu North Bus Terminal, our gateway to Danao Port—where the ferry to Camotes Island awaited (although Pier 1 also offers trips to Camotes Island, we chose Danao City to accommodate our friends from the north).
And guess what’s the most important item that should be brought on this kind of trip at this age? Yes, my friend, white flower. Though I’m not really fond of essential oils and pain relief ointments, they sure come in handy when you’re traveling with friends who tend to struggle with seasickness.
With the group finally assembled, we boarded a bus bound for Danao City. I was actually traveling with my college friends, including Lixelle, Christine, Jasmine, Jessie, and Ace, accompanied by Ace’s husband Alec, and their little one, Aden. If this had been a teenage trip, we would probably be scolded for the incessant chatter that would fill the bus. However, at this age, the moment we settled into our seats, sleep quickly claimed us. We’ve become quite the mellow titas over the years. Forgivable, though, because most of us came straight from work. (Reasons. You used to party all night and report to class as if nothing happened at 7 a.m.)
When we arrived in Danao City, the first order of business was to get tickets for the ferry going to Camotes Island. After settling down, we decided to grab some breakfast because a hungry tita is an angry tita.
By 8:30 AM, the trip to Camotes Island began—and off we went to our respective dreams. Although Jasmine and I decided to catch up with the hottest chismis in town. With more than two hours of travel time, much has been ‘discussed’—and it became increasingly apparent that this trip was going to exceed my initial expectations.
This was actually the first time that I’d be spending three days on Camotes Island. Previous trips were just for a day or two. But it was all loaded, with almost all tour destinations visited. However, this time, we opted for a more laid-back schedule. A staycation, as they put it.
Tita-Friendly Destinations on Camotes Island
Upon arrival, we headed directly to our accommodation: Santiago Beach Resort. Nestled on the pristine shores of Santiago Beach, this beautiful resort provides a relaxing venue for quiet days. With its expansive infinity pools, generous food servings, and lush green surroundings, the resort offered everything we needed for a peaceful and rejuvenating stay. Yeah, the design is very Tita.
We arrived around lunchtime, so we decided to have a feast in celebration of Lixelle’s birthday before settling into our rooms for some much-needed rest. We had plans to explore the beach in the afternoon and perhaps take a dip in the pool as well.
For someone who has been accustomed to ninja trips, it was actually refreshing to have this kind of setup. No itineraries to follow; just be in the place and enjoy it.
The following day, we were fetched by our contracted driver for our day tour. In addition to white-sand beaches, Camotes Island boasts a variety of attractions, including cave pools, lakes, cliff diving spots, and the picturesque surrounding islets. Some of the spots we visited included Lake Danao, Tulang Diot Island, Timubo Cave, and Paraiso Cave.
We made a quick stop for some barbecue—and a few “drinks”—before returning to our accommodation. We had all sorts of plans lined up for our last night on the island, including karaoke, a sleepover, and games. However, as it turned out, they all remained as plans. Exhausted from the day’s activities, everyone except Lixelle and I managed to finish the drinks we had brought along.
The next day, not a soul stirred to catch the sunrise. It was only when our stomachs began to growl, demanding breakfast, that anyone roused from their slumber. After a hearty meal, we took a final plunge into the pool before wrapping up our stay and embarking on the five-hour journey back to Cebu City.
Reflections of a Tita
Contrary to my initial expectations, Camotes Island turned out to be well worth the trip, especially after the ordeal of that 100km fun run. A laid-back, no-nonsense trip with the gang was incredibly comforting. Nothing beats a company where you feel safe telling anything: no judgment, no bullshit, no crappy advice. They’re just there to listen—and make fun of your stupid decisions (with consent).
I’d be honest. The younger blogger of this site used to criticize those people who travel and choose the most expensive accommodation for their stay. I mean, the heck? You’re spending thousands worth just so you can leave your bags there?
My apologies. I am but a noob—and I stand corrected.
You see, the concept of fun and travel changes as you age. Back then, it served as an escape from the daily work and life frustrations. Then, it transformed into a way of life—a weekly quest for gaining knowledge from people, cultures, and experiences. Eventually, it became a necessary break from the stresses and nagging aspects of life, such as bills, existential crises, and all those quarter-life concerns.
And maybe I’ll discover more—if time and budget permits—as I get older. In a recent interview made by a college student, I was asked what’s the most important tip I can impart to aspiring young travelers. Simple: make the most of your youthful energy. Put to good use that courage of yours—believe me, your knees will start trembling for no apparent reason as you approach 25, and you’ll experience a level of discomfort you’ve never known when you’re nearing thirty. Your mind will still yearn for grand adventures, but your body might not be as cooperative. So, take good care of your health and make the most of your youth. Do daring and maybe even foolish things—and, most importantly, learn from those experiences.
Life is too short to be anything but happy. Make the most out of it. -From your Tita
Dakilanglaagan 