Basco (Batan Island) Travel Guide: A Hidden Gem in the Philippines

Located in the northernmost province of the Philippines, Batanes, Basco (Batan Island) is a small island that retains its pristine natural beauty, far from the hustle and bustle. With no industrial pollution, the locals live a leisurely life, relying on fishing, farming, and tourism. If you long to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the tranquility and harmony of nature, Basco is your ideal travel destination. ### Best Time to Visit - Avoid the rainy and typhoon season from August to October. - Due to the pandemic, only one daily flight by Philippine Airlines is available to this destination. ### Communication and Internet - Mainly relies on the Smart network, but the signal is unstable and intermittent. - It is recommended to put down your phone and immerse yourself in this travel experience. ### Accommodation Recommendations - **Fundacion Pacita Hotel**: Located on a cliff top, it offers stunning sea views and artistic decor, making it one of the best accommodation options on the island. ### Travel Preparation - **Clothing**: Bring long sleeves and pants to cope with the lower temperatures (as low as 10 degrees Celsius) and windproof and warm clothing. - **Shoes**: Choose comfortable hiking or climbing shoes, especially when walking in the highland meadows. - **Safety Tips**: When exploring the highland meadows, pay attention to your safety, as some sections are close to cliffs and have no guardrails. ## Must-See Attractions 1. **Rocky Coast**: Crystal-clear seawater crashes against the hard rocks, creating white foam, and the sound of the waves is as crisp and pleasant as thunder. 2. **Highland Meadows**: The vast green grasslands present different shades of green as the clouds move, and cattle and sheep graze leisurely in the distance, reminiscent of scenes from the movie "The Lord of the Rings." ## Activity Suggestions - **Hiking**: Traverse the highland meadows and experience the charm of nature. - **Photography**: Whether it's the beach or the highlands, it's a great place to take photos. - **Relaxation**: Enjoy a cup of coffee in a sea-view room at Fundacion Pacita Hotel and quietly admire the beautiful scenery outside the window. ## Tips - Check the weather forecast in advance to avoid bad weather affecting your itinerary. - If you rely heavily on the Internet, consider bringing a portable Wi-Fi device or downloading the content you need in advance. - Respect local culture and customs and get along with the locals. In short, Basco is a place where you can relax your mind, perfect for those who want to escape the fast pace of modern life temporarily. I hope this guide will help you better plan your trip to Basco!