"There was never a sunset that I didn't loved"
This has always been my thought everytime I got to see a sunset whether in the city, mountains or beaches. And so, Chasing sunsets is up again and this time, it will be in one of the most recommended sunset place in the country. None other than La Union or ELYU in today's term.
One of Luzon's underrated province is now becoming a big sensation in terms of quick getaways. La Union is not just about beach and sunsets. For this Year's Holiday, We tried to concise this trip to one day of going around the province.
Our DIY ELYU travel started with looking for a bus ride going there. Thankful that several routes will passed by if by chance you haven't got to reserve with San fernando routes. We try going to Dominion Bus with a schedule of going to Abra. At first we thought it would be expensive since the available bus looks like a luxury bus. One from the office told us to just go on with the trip. It was a non-stop bus. but since the CR is not working, they will be having several stops or will operate like a regular A/C bus. So, we've been sitting in a lazy boy seat but paying a regular price. We have decided to go directly at Balaoan. Strategy wise, it is more convenient to get the farthest first. Upon arriving at Balaoan City Hall, We run to the nearest 7/11 to have some coffee first. Then, drop by to Balaoan Church. Just in front of where we will ride a tricycle going to Luna for our first destination.
Baluarte watch tower. though it is no longer functional, it has become an attraction for some visitors. A classical brick style structure facing the west Philippine Sea. It is a good start for the day. A fair breeze of air touches your skin, sounds of gentle and inviting waves and the laughter of the Children playing around and ready to take photos of visitors. I bet you won't let this opportunity passed by. These kids were hilarious with taking photos. Next thing to do is ride a jeep or UV express going to San Juan, then transfer to a jeep en route to San Gabriel. From there, Tricycles going to the jump off is available and also, you can hire a guide before going the jump off. if going on a long trail trek.
It was a long and not-so-technical trek. Until we came upon so-called cliff jump area. In this site, there were 3 parts of where to jump. 20 ft, 10 ft and 5 ft. It is a must try activity for some adrenaline junkie. A kind of bold and fierce adventure to dare yourself something challenging. 20 min. from this site is the main attraction which is Tangadan falls. I've been to several falls and I could say that this one catches one's attention by having good time under its grand outflow. A cold refreshing moment to escape the heat of the sun.
Next Stop would be a typical daytour destination but before anything else, we had our lunch at BBQ restaurant in the middle of the Market. From there, we only have to ride a tricycle going to Ma Cho Temple. This temple is a small version of Taoist Temple in Cebu. A kind of viewing the whole city from the heart of the city. As much as we want to explore more of La Union, we didn't have enough time for that. We dropped by Poro Point bay walk then Immediately travel to Urbiztondo, San Juan via tricycle to look for some good place to eat while waiting for their spectacular sunset.
It's been a while since I last saw a magnificent sunset in the beach. La Union didn't disappoint us. Though small drizzle of rain has been felt in the morning and clouds scattered in mid-day, The sun still came out and show itself to give everyone not just a rewarding view but a hope for a better tomorrow. A great way to end a beautiful day of relaxation.
I have always been dreaming of a lazy afternoon by the shore. Just sitting, contemplating while watching the sun fades out. A great time to reflect for this year's first quarter; A time to give yourself some space for re-evaluation of what life have been to and how to re-align some plans after some have failed. How can you not joyfully love and at the same time be emotional when this kind of sunset is right before your eyes?. How can you not think of how beautiful life can be and at the same time feel so drain because of life's struggles too? But because this kind of sunset also gives the assurance that whatever life throws at you, Not all endings, sufferings, and goodbyes are painful. It is a symbol that there's a good in good bye; all hardships will be paid off; sufferings will end. A new tomorrow will give new hope and everything will be okay. An affirmation for the phrase "This too shall pass". Dramatic? Yes! I don't know if it's just my Melancholic side but that's what this sunset has brought me. Chasing sunsets may come in different locations. May it be in the City view, Mountains, Valleys, inside a room and beach. But Sunset by the beach will always give delight to one's heart and mind. One of the best way to restore some fighting spirit that is slowly taken away by life's circumstances.
