jionalim

[jionalim]

In 2016, when I was 11 years old, my family and I embarked on an unforgettable two-week vacation to Tuguegarao City in Cagayan Valley. Our purpose was to visit my grandparents and other relatives, and since it was during school vacation, I didn’t have to worry about homework or classes. The night before our trip, my mom and I carefully packed our bags, making sure we had everything for the two-week stay. Early the next morning, as the sun was just starting to rise, we woke up at 5 AM, excited for the journey ahead. My dad arranged for a tricycle to take us to the bus terminal, and soon, we were on our way.

The trip was long, with Cagayan Valley being quite far from where we lived. As we traveled through the winding roads, I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by the changing landscapes lush green fields, towering mountains in the distance, and rivers that glistened under the sunlight. Cagayan Valley, located in northeastern Luzon, is a region filled with beauty, and it includes five provinces Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, and Quirino. Tuguegarao, the largest city in the valley, is surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges and the winding rivers that make the area so special.

When we arrived, everything felt fresh and new, even though I had visited before. It had been years, and I was filled with excitement to explore again. The people spoke Ilocano, a language I couldn’t understand, but I loved listening to the rhythm of their words as they chatted with each other. The sound of the language added to the charm of the place.

Over the next few days, my brothers, cousins, and I spent our time running through the fields, climbing trees, and exploring the beautiful countryside. One of the highlights was wading through the cool, crystal-clear river, which felt so refreshing on a hot day. The water was pure, and I could see the fish swimming beneath the surface. I even had the chance to ride a carabao, which was an unforgettable experience! The gentle creature moved slowly, and I felt like I was part of the landscape, connected to nature in a way I’d never experienced before. Bathing in the river was another unforgettable moment. The water was fresh and cool, the perfect way to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Tuguegarao City in Cagayan Valley were so serene and beautiful that I began to feel like I could easily live there. The place was so peaceful, with no rush or noise, and it allowed me to forget about all my gadgets. Instead, I found joy in simple moments walking through the fields, breathing in the fresh air, and marveling at the natural beauty that surrounded me. It was a vacation that reminded me of the beauty of slowing down and connecting with nature, and it’s a trip I will always treasure.