Breathtaking Batanes

People weren't exaggerating when they referred to Batanes as the Philippines' New Zealand. With a population of less than 20,000 people, this group of about ten islands, of which the biggest being Batan, Sabtang and Itbayat are the ones usually visited by tourists.

We opted to stay in Batan for our entire stay, visiting the different slopes and shorelines to enjoy Ivatan food and mingle with some locals -- which included lots of cows who keep the mountainside grass trimmed. :-p

Rolling hills everywhere you look.

Apart from the promo airfare we were able to avail of, I was so happy to finally book rooms at Fundacion Pacita - a hilltop hotel.

When staying in Batanes, Fundacion Pacita's restaurant should not be missed.

Their calamansi pie was sooooo good!

Behind the hotel was a pathway down to the pebble beach.

We requested a tour guide and vehicle through our hotel. We visited the famous lighthouses...

..churches...

... and had a hearty lunch at paulvana's.

We even had lobsters!

After lunch, we continued with our tour to see the Spanish lagoon which was frequented by Spanish friars in the 1900's...

...one of the oldest houses in Batanes...

...and the Honesty store.

Of course, this trip would not be complete without visiting the famous rolling hills.

 What are you waiting for? Whether for your engagement photos or honeymoon, go book that trip to one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in the Philippines!