Around Africa - Salalah, Oman

After successfully passing by the Gulf of Aden, we docked in one of Oman's cities and the capital and seat of the governor of Dhofar, Salalah.

I never ever thought of ever been stepping into this place I only hear from OFWs. It's already part of Asia, the Middle East to be specific.

As this is an Arab country, I thought of deserts, camels and hot weather. And they didn't disappoint me.

I went on tour and really explored it the best I could!

After boarding the bus, we passed by the famous Mughsayl Beach.

Before heading to Marneef Cave..

where we enjoyed a spectacle of the popular blowholes!

After all the picture-taking, we went straight to Job's Tomb. Nobody can really tell if this is the real one as there are other tombs of Job in the world. But seeing this is quite an experience already!

Along the road, this is just a normal sight.

And they have that practice of honking the incoming vehicle if they have passed by a camel along the road to serve as a warning.

Camels are just everywhere!

The tour guide told us that all the dry land we see along the way become lush green comes the rainy season between June to September.

After our visit to Job's tomb, we dropped by the Government's Palace. We could not go inside. Hence, just these pics.

Then to the Old Market and bought souvenirs!

It was a fun-filled exploration!

Around Africa - Praslin Island, Seychelles

The next day of our journey was to Praslin Island! One of the best places to explore in Seychelles! As I'm not really a beach person, and we need tender boats to go there, I was not really enticed to really go out. But, I preferred to go anyway just to buy souvenirs.

But as we waited for the tenders, we talked with other crews and we ended up joining them on their way to the beach. There was no city center you can actually explore so it was a good idea to see nature's wonders (even if I'm not into them).

So off we go to one of the world's best beaches, Anse Lazio!

It's a 30-minute drive to this widely-known stretch.


And you will really be in for a big surprise!

I haven't tried dripping in the water but still enjoyed it! I went back with no regrets at all.

Isola di Francesco

I bet you've heard of Bohol and the natural attractions it offers.

I believe you've had an idea of Panglao as well and its, oh my, prestine and breathtaking beaches.

But does Isola di Francesco ring a bell to you? If not, let me give you an overview of this extraordinary islet that would leave you looking forward to that next holiday. Haha

15 mins off the Panglao port was once referred to as virgin island but now named Isola di Francesco. You might wonder what's with the name. You would know later on.

A sign board at the port's waiting area would tell you what number to contact just to get there. We called the number and after 5 minutes, we were on our way to their shuttle service.

It is strictly necessary to wear life vests. They would not start the boat if you're not following. As in.

15 minutes of travel would give you this view. I actually had no idea at first which island we're heading but eventually did when I saw the signages.

Oh my. Once you step off the boat, unless it's low tide, you would actually realize you've set foot on a sandbar! And not just A sandbar. It's the longest you will ever see!

You could really burn yourself just to get that perfect view and your perfect shot. Who would wanna miss, right? Haha

Once you've had enough and learned to move on, you would be heading to the island per se. And as you come nearer, you'd gonna wonder what's thaaat?.

Yes. That is a statue. Of who?

of Padre Pio.

We later on learned that this island was bought and developed by Mr. Rodriguez who also manages a congregation in Manila. Touring the island would help you relax, meditate and stay close to God.

Angels are everywhere!

Have I told you they offer food as well? 

And would it even amaze you these have no prices? They only accept donations, my dear.Yes man. Yes.

The shuttle service (round trip)? It's also free and only accepts any amount from the heart.

In short, the whole island is maintained through gratuities. Isn't it surprising?

Can I just add. They have one of the coolest comfort rooms!

A piece of paradise. You can truly relax and let time be your enemy. 

Where on earth right? Haha. Well, at this part of the world, heaven has descended. So better experience it yourself. :)