For the latter half of August & the first half of September, I spent my time in the Philippines. I must say, of all the times I’ve been to the Philippines, this was my favorite trip. I’m assuming because I’m older and used to the Philippine climate thanks to China and Thailand. It was nice having a family reunion and seeing family I haven’t seen in years. 
We spent a little more time in Manila, than usual, but it was pretty fun. I normally hate going to Manila because of how hot, crowded and polluted it is, but this time was different. August is known as the rainy month in the Philippines and it rained about half the time we were in Manila. The traffic was terrible, but the weather was cool. Plus Uber is available for use out there so that was super convenient. While we were there, we were able to celebrate my grandma’s birthday (Dad’s mom).
After Manila, we went to visit my mom’s hometown, Dumaguete. I love being in Dumaguete because I get to ride with my cousins on their motorbikes and that’s always fun. 
While in Dumaguete, we took a day trip to Sumilon Island, after swimming with the whale sharks in Oslob.
After a day in the sun on the boat and on that island, I came back so dark and sunburnt. Needless to say, all the other times I went swimming, I wore sunscreen.
Towards the end of the trip, my family and I took a trip to another island, Mindanao. It was my first time there and it was so beautiful. We were there to celebrate my Aunt’s birthday, who would’ve been 60. For one of the days spent there, there was an all day town brownout, so we spent the day at the beach. The beach was clear, but kind of green and not particularly my favorite. It was a great beach for just sitting and soaking in the sun. 
Our last day on that island, we went to ‘Dakak Resort’. It was my first time there and it was so much fun! The resort is beautiful and the property is huge. By the time we checked in, it was already sunset, so we watched the sunset, had a lovely dinner and laid on the beach. 
The next morning, before breakfast, my cousin and I went jet skiing. So much fun! I’ve never been jet skiing at a beach before, but I find it way better than at a lake. The waves were choppy and we had a blast.
I had so much fun vacationing in the Philippines, but it felt so good to be back in my “home” in China.
Xo,
Pristine
pristinetravels 