Vibrance. Resilience. Faith.

When we hear Tacloban, first thing comes to mind was Yolanda, as if the two was synonymous.
It was my first ever trip to Leyte, and i was bothered what Tacloban looked like after the devastation and turmoil. After 4 years did they finally recovered? Our trip was booked in time for the Pintados and Sangyaw Festivities, luck must have been on our side. The moment we landed, we felt a different vibe, we felt curioused that instantly we did not wait to explore the streets of Tacloban. We roamed around downtown on our feet, slowly feeling the city, engulfing ourselves, wandering like locals. People were on the streets smiling despite the scorching sun all waiting for the parade. Colors were splashed, loud music was all over and people dancing on streets.
That moment we felt we were in a different city. The image of Yolanda aftermath was suddenly erased, it was vibrant, it was a celebration of life, of culture and of faith.
We ended the day trying all sorts of street food in their plaza. We sat in one of the benches in their park facing city hall, where bold letters of I ❤ TACLOBAN colorfully displayed. Indeed, we love Tacloban.

But not only that there was more to Tacloban than the Sangyaw, on our second day we explored the Cuatro Islas located on the northern part of the province. By the name itself it was 4 separate islands each with distinct characters, 2 of the islands were residential while the other 2 were the untouched ones so clean and a refreshing sight to behold.
The last island was like the Virgin Islands of Bantayan, clear waters and white sand. It was so laid back that there was no trace of commerciality(if theres a word). We just chill on the clear beach and white sand the whole afternoon.
On our way back, we passed by the 16000 Roses on top of the mountain. The view was overwhelming, the sunset was amazing. All frames in the picture was "instagramable". After 3 hours of travel, we were back in the city hungrier, we went straight to Pendoko's a well known place for all sorts of bbqs. ()We ordered everything our eyes wanted paired with pusò(rice wrapped in coconut leaves). We spent our last day back in the city again, catching up, meeting new friends and food tripping. But no one can leave Tacloban without passing by San Juanico Bridge - the longest bridge in the Philippines connecting Leyte and Samar. We were amazed how the bridge stood the test of time just liked its people - resilient. It was just a quick trip and boom you have hit two birds in one stone - Leyte and Samar. We were planning to have a side trip to Sohoton Cave in Samar but due to some constraints we did not push through. But good thing though, we find a cool cafe located just before the bridge Leyte side. San Juanico Pension has a cafe that served 'instagrammable' frap. We ordered frap and fries to balanced the sweetness and saltiness just like life. We indulged oursleves in the cozy cafe with our frap while catching up with friends. After filling our stomachs we hurried back to the city to witnessed the Sangyaw Parade of Floats and Lights. The streets were filled with people from all over, local and international all enjoying the "happyesta" a coined term for happy fiesta. But anyway, it was a whole different experience, i realized how devouted and faithful the Taclobanons to Pit Senyor. It was their faith that made them stronger. We ended the night having a sumptous dinner at Ocho Seafood Restaurant. Everything was fresh and yummy, it was like 'dampa' in Manila. We ate our meal as if theres no tomorrow. Thank you for the free dinner Tacloban friends:)

Our trip may be short but it was full of memories and realizations, to be grateful and celebrate life. Salute to all TACLOBANONS! We ❤ you.

P.s. This is our first entry. All pictures were taken using Samsung Note 8. We will be posting our itinerary with expenses soon😊!