Bontoc Province: Mt. Kupapey
Unexpected things happen as a result of spontaneity. That's one of the things I realised from this trip. I would call it as a "blessing in disguise" rather than unfortunate event. It's easy for me to see the best in things no matter how complicated it gets. As cliche as it may sound, I believe in "things happen for a reason", may it be a good or bad. Besides, there's always a Plan B even if the plan never existed until it was thought of.
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| Photo courtesy of Joseph Baun |
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| Photo courtesy of Joseph Baun |
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| Group picture courtesy of Cris Casidsid |
Water is my element and if I were to choose between being stuck in an island or in the forest, there's a probability that I'd choose being stuck in an island even if I knew it's not the best idea. But, there's this particular unexplainable thing in the mountains that keeps me from coming back. Air, view, adventure - whatever it is, the sheer magnetism of it seems irresistible. After all, the mountains is always a good idea.
I'm fond of hiking even though my body repulse its idea. It's around 5 in the morning and though it's a beginner mountain, I found my self struggling as I walk my way through the darkness. Truth is, it was my first time to hike in the dark and I did not expect to feel the way I did. I felt I was walking into nothingness. I'm not sure if it's just the result of my lack of sleep or my poor vision but I've tried spelunking for quite a number of times and I did actually enjoyed it. Above all that, I knew it was going to be worth it and as much as I wanted to turn my back, I moved on with rest hoping not to stumble.
It may have been the most uncomfortable hiking experience I've had (I meant the act of hiking in that context), but surely it has the most beautiful and peaceful mountain view I have seen so far. The calmness of the summit is quite phenomenal; and the bond we've created from this trip is an enough reason to come back.
P.S. We stayed at Terraces View Guest House. Rowena Delim owns the place and I tell you, she is such a sweet and caring woman. Reach her through her mobile number, +639151881732. I highly recommend her.
Second part of the trip is here -> Buscalan, Kalinga: A visit to the Apo Whang-Od
Keep Smiling :)
