Sagada's Bomod-Ok Falls

Hidden behind rice paddies and mountain villages is a well-kept tourist destination of Sagada. Bomod-ok or Big Falls soars some 200 feet high in the air and the path leading to this nature's creation is both an exciting and knee jerking experience that will leave you astounded and amazed.

The jump off point starts at the Information center where all the groups gathered for briefing and to meet the tour guides. Here you'll get to choose your trekking stick which certainly is my priced possession throughout the hike as it saved me from countless slips and pitfalls.

The hike starts with narrow but well-maintained cemented pathway and stone stairs which serves as the hiking trail.Extra caution is advised as the steps tend to be slippery and steep that a misstep could lead to several meters fall.

After a series of narrowed pathways, the scenery changed to vast and verdant rice paddies overlooking the village of Fidelisan. Walking in Cordillera's rice paddies was more than just an experience, it was a dream come true. I remember flipping through pages or flow charts with pictures of this man-made terraces and have always thought of how it would feel like to actually walk on them. And this trip to Sagada paved way to turn those into reality.

The view starts to get scenic as we inch closer to the falls. Though the trail is descending, expect some knee-jerking and more than an hour long walk to reach the spot. Sunblock, shawl, hats, trail mix and water would be your best buds throughout the entire hike.

Countless stops for photos and a couple more breaks to catch our breathe, we finally reached Bomod-Ok Falls. It's everything I remember sans the crowd. The big rock facing the falls which I effortlessly climbed 10 years ago firmly hold its ground. I did attempt to climb up but failed miserably. Why can't I be as brawny and fit as I was back then. Sigh. SOA.

The water is inviting, freezing but everyone's almost thrilled to jump in. It's tempting and the cold splashes were enough to rejuvenate our tired, sore muscles. There are no changing quarters or restrooms in the area but you can always improvised by using shawl or sarong. If you're not adept at swimming, you can always lounge at the side of the falls where the water is shallow. If you are brave enough to climb an almost vertical rock and you're confident that you won't slip or fall, then go ahead and dare yourself to an epic adventure. Again caution is important as your neck is sure to break should you happen to slip.

This spot has also served as a source of livelihood for the locals. Here you can buy swimwear, drinks, banana-q, chips and more. It would be good to grab a bite before you head back as you need to fuel up as the ascent is certainly not an easy feat.

We took the same trail back and it was far more challenging. It takes patience and a lot of pit stops but our appreciation for this beautiful landscape is endless. As we traverse the upward path, we saw how Sagada and its local ingenuity are able to preserve its culture by working hand in hand with nature. We saw hard working elders plucking and sowing earth oblivious of the heat and pain of bending ( insert : Magtanim ay di biro... ).  It's a humbling experience that made us realize the value of work and effort they put in for us to have grains on our plate each meal. And it was also heartbreaking to realize that their role in our society is often given the least priority.

Walking back to the jump off point offered some thoughts for me to ponder on. They say that it is the journey that matters and not the destination. But Bomod-Ok is a case of both. The trek to this hidden spot is must do activity as the view is nothing short of spectacular. Worth every muscle pains and gasps. It is best enjoyed with people you value most and even with strangers you'll get to spend a few hours with. In any type of journey, hike or adventure, it is imperative that you approach it with an open mind and sheer optimism because every experience you set yourself to embark on will always be a rewarding one. And in the case of Bomod-Ok Falls, every strenuous step is worth it and you'll be surprised at the many things you'll discover along the way.

Xo,

Jhesy 

Between the Lines

My idée fixe for stripped look started a little over than 2 years ago..I always incorporate stripes with nautical wear. Blue and white with a hint of red. Oversized sun glasses and wide brimmed hat - All set for Yacht Party at the Hamptons. But seriously, stripes especially when mixed with minimalism can boost an entire look and transform your ensemble to a classic glam up number yet not so over the top.

Dress by Aldrin & Laura 

Some people, women in particular dread wearing lines. And trust me, I used to shun away from them too. Back then I view them as too dramatic, so many things going on and restricting as you can only partner it with little variations.Then I saw Alexa Chung sporting this striped black and white tee with boyfriend Jeans highlighted with pop of color in red lipstick. It literally changed my perception about wearing sea of black and white. In fact, each time I would scout for pieces to add to my wardrobe, I would end up buying a tee, dress or skirt detailed in stripes of black and white.

Alexa Chung in striped tee

You have to give it to this simple yet taken for granted look as if it's an ode to classic fashion mantra. It's the trend which will always be a hit regardless of time, age and season. It's the perfect default look which certainly saves the day. It's versatility to accord its style for any occasion have proven that this sure is closet must have.

Here are some pieces you can work with the help of our trusty basic striped tee :

1. Beach Babe

Add pop up of color your tee and match it with an oversized sunglasses and you'll be turning heads in no time

2. Corporate Gal 

Conquer the board room with those cat eyes and striped mini dress and get everyone's ears and eyes attuned to your every word.

3. Party Siren

Ripped Jeans + Stripped top + Ankle Strap Hells + Red Lippy = #readytopaintthetownred 

4. Casual Chic

Got errands to run? Slip on to your converse and don a stripped top and boyfriend jeans.Complete 'em list by looking extra stylish.

5. French City Girl

Dreaming of Riviera or simply strolling under the city lights of Paris. There's nothing more perfect that a red coat don onto a striped top and knee high skirt.

Sometimes we become oblivious that beautiful things may come in the simplest form. In this case, a basic striped top. It can pull sophistication without trying so hard. It can stand on its own or can be adorned with luxurious ornaments in gold and whites. It will work on any body type without sacrificing sartorial gusto. It's a fantastic trend that is clean and effortlessly chic.

So if simplicity is what you're after then a striped tee is your best bet as you can never go wrong with this look. Activate your imagination and set forth for a style-exercise and be surprised at variety of looks one can pull off with this number.

Xo,
Jhesy 

Ngong Ping 360

Here's the last entry for our November getaway in Hong Kong. Since we're pressed for time, we decided to skip Ocean Park and head over to Lantau Island instead.  Lantau is the largest island in Hong Kong and apparently almost double the size of Hong Kong island itself. It is famous for its soaring mountains and lush valley. 

Ngong Ping 360  is must-see tourist destination in this island, located at the western part of Lantau Island is one of the highlights of our Hong Kong trip. Getting here was a breeze ( literally ) as it was windy inside the MTR.  From TST, alight at Tung Chung station and the cable car should be right adjacent to it.  We arrived at around 1030 am on a Tuesday morning. I had this slightly realistic expectation that it will not be crowded for 2 reasons. 1. It's a weekday 2. It's off peak.  But lo and behold, looks like everyone thought of the same thing and we walked into a long queue of people who were waiting their turn to buy the tickets. Yes, it wasn't even the queue to board the cable car. My fell face and heart sank. We're supposed to finish early and head back to TST for last minute shopping but I scrapped the idea as it would be close to impossible to make it back by 2:00pm. 

We bought the Crystal Cabin at $255HKD. Piece of advice should you want to visit to avoid long queues, purchase your tickets online. Advanced booking can be made up to 14 days prior to visits.

The 25-minute exhilarating cable car ride traversing to 5.7 km is not for those with a faint heart or fear of heights. But sure enough if you would dare to face your fears, I can assure it's worth every penny spent. The journey to Ngong Ping offers 360 degrees astonishing bird's view of South China Sea and lush greenery. 

As you step out of the cable car, you will be greeted by the culturally-themed village showcasing culture and spiritual integrity of Ngong Ping. 

Tian Tan Buddha or famously known as Big Buddha is 34 metres tall and weighs 250 tons. The right hand of the Buddha is held up as a “Fear-Not mudra” – a manifestation of the great vow to eliminate suffering from all sentient beings. The left hand is placed on the Buddha’s thigh with his palm facing out and fingers slightly pointing downwards. This is known as the “Wish-Granting mudra”, signifying the compassionate vow to grant happiness to all men. The Dharma cakra in the palm represents the everlasting turning of the Wheel of Dharma and the dissemination of the Dharma to every corner of the world.

A climb of 268 steps should take you to the Giant Buddha. I did this the first time I went but opted to wander around the area this time and explore the monasteries. And I couldn't be happier that I did. 

We spent the rest of the little time we've had roaming around the temples and taking photos of the area. For almost 3 hours spent queuing for the ticket alone, I'd say Lantau Island was well worth the experience. Be sure to include this touristy spot on your itinerary and spare an hour or two for shopping at the Citygate outlet. 

Xo,

Jhesy