Over the summer, I got the chance to spend a whole month in the Philippines. The last time I visited the Philippines was 14 years ago. This is by far one of my favorite trips because I got the see where my mother and her siblings grew up, I got to reconnect with family members, and I got to explore a whole new country. Here are 7 reasons why the 15 hour plane ride was worth it to me.
1. When my family went to Cebu I got the chance to swim with whale sharks. Seeing them in their natural environment was simply beautiful.
2. I went scuba diving at Apo Island a couple times. For anyone who is an avid scuba diver, Apo Island is surrounded by many coral and sea creatures.
3. Through Harold's Diving Center I was able to give back to my mom's hometown by taking part in a beach cleanup and feeding children at a school where my grandma was formally a principal at.
4. One of my favorite restaurants is called Adamo. The word 'Adamo' means to love and long for, which accurately describes the chef's passion for cooking.
5. The fresh fruits and peanut butter. There is nothing better than eating freshly picked fruit and freshly made peanut butter. Both will change your eating habits!
6. Being surrounding by nature was so peaceful. It was a good step away from city life.
