Cordova

On our last day in Moalboal, Ken and Everett decided to go canyoneering and cliff diving. Early in the morning Albert (our AirBnB host) drove us in his tricycle to Kawasan Falls (about a 1 hour ride). The motorbike didn’t have the power to transport four people, so the poor engine couldn’t accelerate to full speed, sounded like a dying lawn mower, and smoked as it overheated.

After arriving, we were fitted with helmets and life vests. The adventure started with a ride on a separate motorbike up a narrow path to the start of the trail. (Albert stayed in the main parking lot with the broken tricycle). This was followed by a 1km long zip line and a short hike to a series of turquoise blue waterfalls through the tropical jungle. Following the course, we experienced thrilling cliff jumps at varying levels of height (the largest about 35-foot drop), rope swing, and natural water slides. Even though it was a popular spot, it wasn’t too busy as the groups were spaced out so it didn’t feel too overcrowded. Our tour guide (Gil) was extremely patient and helpful, taking care of Everett at every step (we joked… Ken was the one who probably needed more hand holding! In his defense… it was slippery!!!). What a worthwhile and unforgettable adventure.

We didn’t get a picture of our wonderful hosts, but here is Albert climbing his coconut tree to give us fresh coconuts.

Ken redeemed himself as a backpacker by taking the local bus. The bus swerved and lurched around the corners of the windy road as random sellers jumped on board to sell us pork rinds. The four-hour ride was loud and bumpy but we made it successfully back to Cebu City. Hot and sweaty, we beelined into the nearest air-conditioned mall across from the bus station to get our bearings and try Jollibees (Filipino fast-food chain, similar to KFC). We also found the ATMs in high demand – Ken waited almost 45 mins to get cash.

Unbeknownst to us, we booked a hotel in the KoreaTown neighborhood of Mactan Island. 98% of the guests here are Korean, the majority of restaurants on the street are Korean, and everyone is speaking Korean. The buffet breakfast at the hotel is even Korean. We joked – “see we don’t even need to go to Seoul, we are already here!”

We enjoyed our time in the Philippines but we have been counting down the days for tomorrow – when we are heading to Japan! [Cue: Naruto soundtrack].Read more