HEAVEN on earth. That’s a description made by people who have already experienced the beauty of Batanes. It’s like you’re in another world.
Located about 860 kilometers north of the center of Manila, Batanes is the smallest province of the Philippines that is near Taiwan. It is a haven of picturesque landscape, stunning stone houses, clear and clean waters, verdant rolling hills, breathtaking beaches that can rival Boracay, jaw-dropping rock formations, lovely lighthouses and amazing churches, mouthwatering seafood, and unique history and culture. It is also dubbed as the ‘Home of the Winds’ because of its windy, breezy, cool climate. Renowned for its untouched beauty, Batanes is the only place in the Philippines declared by law as an environmentally protected area. Meaning, its natural resources should be preserved and not be destroyed or taken.
So if you want to experience a new kind of peace and tranquility, visit Batanes. Book a flight early as travel schedule here is limited. December to May is the best time to enjoy the place. Bring sweater or jacket as the place is a bit cold. Remember to bring enough cash with you because there are only a few ATMs in the area. There are no money exchange facilities too in Batanes. Credit cards are also seldom accepted by establishments. Given that the place is located in a far-flung area, Internet connection may be a bit challenging and slow in some areas. Despite this, however, Batanes is all worth it. The people are very kind, polite, and accommodating so ask around for anything you need or are not sure of. Worry not, Batanes is the only place in the Philippines with zero crime rate.
With its out-of-this-world beauty, unique refuge of peace, calm, quiet, and back-to-basics lifestyle, Batanes, indeed, is paradise!
