Unlimited island-hopping? Let's do it in Daet!: A ‘Biyahe ni Drew’ itinerary

Summer vacation is officially over but Drew Arellano's journeys are unstoppable! His next travel destination--- the virgin islands of Daet, Camarines Norte! What can we expect to see and savour in Daet? Find out in this 'Biyahe ni Drew' itinerary!

How to get there?



If you have the budget to board via plane, it will only take you an hour and a half to reach Naga from Manila. From there, you can ride a bus or a van to Daet. This trip will cost you an additional 90 minutes.

But if you're the type who enjoys long trips while sitting on a bus, it will cost you at least P500- P600 and 7-8 hours of land travel.

Where to go?



Daet offers a wide range of islands to discover. If you are a group of eight, you will only need to spend P560 per head and you can already visit a total of seven islands.

Caringo Island
Mercedes, Daet



This is the perfect place if you want to run away from all the noise and stress of the Metro. Caringo boasts of its long white sand beach, the reason why it is the most popular island in Mercedes. Wanna escape from the scorching heat? You can try snorkeling here as well.

The place may be considered a haven but there is one major consideration---electricity. Because the island is far from the city, electricity is only available between 6 AM to 10 PM.

Malasugui Island



Want your peace and quiet? Then, Malasugui Island is the place to go! Because this is the smallest island in Mercedes, it has no local settlers. You are like an outcast stranded in this wonderful paradise! During the evening, you and your friends can also camp out here. Just make sure to coordinate with the local tour guides and do not forget to bring your own tent!

Apuao Peqena

For some, when the night starts to creep in, camping out and sharing stories in front of a bonfire is the only activity you can do. But in Apuao Peqena, a thrilling adventure awaits you in the dark---bat watching!

This may sound creepy but Drew can attest that this is safe and enjoyable!

"Signs daw ng isang healthy wildlife ay maraming bats. At itong klaseng bats na ito ay very pleasant. Palagi silang tumatawa. Kaya ang tawag sa kanila ay ‘funny’-ki!" Drew jokingly says.

Malatap Falls



If you get tired of island hopping, you can opt to relax in Malatap Falls which is also near Mercedes. When you get here, you can let the running falls wash away your stress cia a hydromassage from the fresh water of the mountains. Every drop is definitely worth it.

What to eat?

Tuhad-tuhad



Tuhad-tuhad is a squid-like seafood. It is a local delicacy in Daet that is best served with Bicol's signature ingredient---gata!

"Parang pusit [ang lasa]. Pero 'yun nalalasahan mo pa 'yung kanyang sea taste. May konting buhangin, at may texture," Drew says.

Binut-ong



Binut-ong is a kakanin that is perfect for snack time. This delicacy is sold for only P10 each.

"Parang suman din, ibang klase [lang ang] presentation. Nandu'n yung malagkit na kanin, gata at may konting asukal," Drew says.

Where to stay?

Upon arrival, it will not be hard for you to choose where to stay because Daet already has a lot of resorts and cottages. Prices may vary and may range from P1500 - P2000 per room.

If you plan to stay in the islands of Mercedes, you will need at least P5000 for a group of 8 pax. You will need an additional  P250 per day if you will be staying in Apuao Peqena.

Biyahero tip: Be sure to bring your own baon and additional toiletries because there are no convenience stores in the area. It is better to be safe than sorry!

Who says you need to go far and spend a lot to have an exciting vacation? Just give Daet a try and you will know that amazing vacations can also come cheap.- Gerald Vista/BMS