I can’t believe today marks one week since I arrived in the Philippines. It’s a full third of my trip — which is clearly not anywhere near long enough.
The highlight so far has undoubtedly been the rice terraces of Batad. There are not enough adjectives available to describe how awed, inspired, and humbled I was before this eighth wonder of the world. I hiked for two days to get in and out of the village, was rescued from a near-death tumble off a terrace wall, and had only an icy cold shower to greet me on my return to Banaue — but it was worth every step. I can’t contain my excitement — I’m throwing a few extra photos in this week!
Photo A
Horse drawn carriage wheel in Manila
Photo B
Pineapple plantation in Tagaytay
Photo C
Traditional dress in Banaue
Photo D
The Eden-like rice terraces of Batad
Photo E
Walking the walls in Batad
Photo F
A cross in Batad — the Philippines are more than 92% Christian!
Photo G
A self portrait, in rice
Photo H
The unofficial national mascot of the Philippines
Clearly I couldn’t decide! Which is your favorite photo?
I also want to take a moment to thank all of you that left me such encouraging words and sweet condolences in the wake of my doses of bad news last week. It means so much — really. The loss of my grandmother will sting for some time, but in terms of my career stumble, I’m already I’m making plans for the future.
Easy choice-G!!!
That’s one of my favorites as well — I did a similar version on my iPhone for Instagram π
Great photos, love them all, but my favorite is C! The Philippines look so beautiful!
Argh, I love that photo but when I look at it all I see is uneven lighting! Ha.
These photos are amazing and I can’t wait to read more about your adventures! The Philippines seems to be an underrated destination. I hope you are able to find some peace there to help you through your troubles.
PS – my parents live in Myrtle Beach. Maybe we can meet up there some day!
I’ve been going to Myrtle Beach for years! Such a guilty pleasure π One of my best friends has a condo there.
All of these photos are great, but I love C, it’s a great portrait, and the perspective of photo A is neat.
Thanks Alouise! Photo A is one I would really like to frame π
It’s a toss up for me, I love the man in traditional dress (c), the view of the terraces (d) and your self portrait, in rice π I’m so sorry for your loss, Alex, I missed the post and just read it. Really beautiful. You have nothing to feel guilty for, life is messy and feelings are complicated when we face sad news about someone whilst on the other side of the world.
Thank you so much Sarah. Appreciate your kindness… being around all this beauty in the world has helped π
ALL are Fantastic. My choice is Photo
” H”.
Good luck Alix.
Thanks Sameer! I was so proud to capture that shot π
A wonderful selection of photos, Alex! This has been one of my dream destinations for a while!
It has been one of mine too! Awesome to finally see it realized.
PHOTO A – easily – so amazing!! I had no idea horses could draw.
Wes. I die.
I like G the best. It’s different. I like the novelty of it.
Thanks Chet! I love my self portraits!
photo C is such a good capture Alex! Dude looks so happy π
He sure is! Gets to live in one of the most beautiful places on earth π
Toss up between B and G. B is great because it give you a sense of the beauty and majesty of the landscape. G fits in to your collection of signature reflection photos….so or me G is Photo of the week. Love Dad
Always love getting your comments Dad. Love you!
I have to go with G, your self-portrait. That is one I would print and hang on my wall to remember my travels.
And I vote for you to go on a cruise! I am dying to go on another one, and I’d love to read about your adventure!
When are you heading to Martha’s Vineyard?
I’m not sure my schedule yet but I’ll get to the Vineyard sometime June-August. And yes, totally ready for another cruise! I need a real vacation… this travel stuff is hard work π
Photo A is easily the best of them, but if I didn’t know I wouldn’t know that you took it in the Philippines, and it appears that’s part of what you’re trying to convey here in your photos. So I’m going with F.
100% C!
We definitely have a winner! π
These are all incredible photos Alex, but I’m going for G. As I didn’t get to see you in Bangkok, this lovely image will have to do until the next time our travels allow us to cross paths π
Come to Bali! Come to Bali! π
Amazing pictures Alex. You definitely have a talent for photography.
Thank you! That’s a really lovely compliment. I try!
D! This picture really seems to be from paradise…
Thanks for voting Karina! I was so happy to capture that photo!
Photo C is just amazing. Love it
Thanks T! Appreciate your vote π
My favorite is photo D of the rice terraces in Batad. I see why it was worth the hike! Ever since I discovered your blog I’ve really enjoyed these regular photo features. Inspiring!
Thanks so much Erica! Feedback like this keeps me posting in the dark times π
Fantastic photos! I’m from the Philippines and I was smiling the entire time I was reading this entry.
Not sure if it’s too late to vote but I’d go with photo G π
Never too late to vote! Thanks for chiming in Plue, glad I could make you smile π