Summer in Pangasinan!

For three days, we escaped the complexities of the big city and fled to a place where the peaceful waves welcomed us and relaxed our spirits.

Clean and clear. We just can't resist the enticing invitation of the graceful waves of Patar white sand beach in Bolinao.

Pangasinan, here we are! We can't help but leap with excitement upon seeing the various captivating vista around us.

Soothing blue. The cloudless sky above the tranquil sea is a panorama of serenity and simplicity. Silent water flows, and so does life.

Fruitful journey across. He goes far from the shore to explore the wealth of the sea and earn a living.

Enchanted Cave and its history. According to our tour guide, this site is formerly under water. After several centuries or thousands of years, the water went down and only the huge rocks remained.

Water everywhere. Pangasinan is rich in saltwater. Did the province get its name from "asin (salt)"?

Natural tan. Such color describes not only their even skin tone but also their thin hair strands. Without a word from these children, one could tell where they grew up.

Forest near the coast? We entered a place crowded with trees as we go on our way to the rock formation. Most of the branches have already dried up but it seemed like a forest nonetheless.

Tondol white sand beach in Anda. From Alaminos, we set off to visit a resort in a nearby town. This is among the many "less-developed" beaches in the province. For a person who prefers a more peaceful place for summer vacation, this could be a perfect choice.

Rock formation. These rocks may not be so gentle to the skin but they definitely make a splendid sight. The shallow water is just perfect to dip your feet in but take my advice: Wear your slippers or beach shoes if you have no plan of hurting yourself (an exaggeration, of course).

Fresh mangoes stop-over. Once you've tasted either a green or a ripe mango from this province, you'll agree that it's the best of its kind. Believe me. We started with one ripe mango each for desert and we ended up craving for more.

The second tallest lighthouse in the Philippines. I don't know where the tallest lighthouse is, but this one is certainly tall enough to impress us.

Underground pool. A long rock stairway led us to the cool freshwater in the midst of the cave. It was moderately thrilling at first and was followed by a relaxing experience.

Stalactites revealed. If not for the flash of the camera, we could have not seen the ceiling of the enchanted cave. It was generally dark inside considering the very small amount of sunlight that enters it. All being a part of it, the place was remarkable.

Embraced by rocks. No matter how strong the wave is, water cannot escape the guarding rocks. It could try even harder and find a way between the rocks but it goes back to the ocean just the same.

Fine and pure. Who would have thought that a public beach could be as good as this?

More to discover. The place has a lot more to offer. The motorboat will take us there.