Wow so the backlog of posts is now out of the way – so now we are up to date with the current state of affairs. So let’s talk about our most recent adventure – The Philippines.
Featuring…
Desert islands | awesome people | jumping off boats | snorkelling | swimming in lagoons | frisbee | food | gin | spit roasting a pig
We spent the first 5 days of our trip on a sailing expedition with Tao Philippines, which offers off-the-beaten-track sailing holidays between El Nido and Coron
“Explorers wanted.” Those were the two words that first convinced me to sign up for the Tao Philippines Expedition. After an induction with the crew and our fellow shipmates the evening prior to departure, we set sail on a traditional Paraw sailboat at 9am on 20th December 2019. Navigating the adventure is our crew of Tao barefoot sailors – also known as The Lost Boys, who truly make the trip. They were always singing, making jokes, and making sure everyone was having the best time. Most of the journey would depend on the wind, the weather and the whims of the crew and guests. There was no set plan.
The expedition combines stretches of pure sailing with time for exploring the islands, reefs, and villages along the way. We jumped off the outriggers, snorkelled around coral reefs and WWII shipwrecks; clambered through caves; strolled along abandoned beaches; socialised with locals and tuned-in to the tranquil pace of island life.
At the end of each day, we docked in one of the Tao base camps scattered across the archipelago. Each one with its own personality: a raw untouched island, a fishing village, an organic farm, or a hidden jungle lodge. Sleeping accommodations at the base camps are bamboo huts crafted by the TAO community right on the beach. Watch the stars and fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing. Nets are provided to keep mosquito’s out.
Each meal is prepared by our amazing cooks from the freshest fruit and fish to a full pig roast, all the food was absolutely delicious. One day we even had fresh ceviche made with a Tuna the crew caught. YUM!
In everything, we met some of the most amazing people who became family by the end of the trip.
It was honestly one of the best experiences I have ever had.