You might be wondering what is “Endcapade”? Is this some sort of a typographical error? Definitely not. Actually, I learned from reading questions in Yahoo Answers! that summer from the West (of the globe) has just started while in the East (of the globe), it just ended — thus the (self-invented) word “Endcapade”.

While trying to catch the last strings of summer here in the Philippines, we went to Camiguin Island.

How to get there? It’s a 1 hour 30 minute ride from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City by air (more than that if you prefer to travel by sea); then more than 2 hours from Cagayan de Oro City to Camiguin City by land and ferry.

Camiguin Island is said to be “Born of Fire”. It is because the small island has around seven active volcanoes. It is said to be that Camiguin Island once belonged to the greater part of Mindanao, but because of the severe and rapid volcanic eruptions, it got separated from it.

We stayed in Paras Beach Resort, located along the coast of Barangay Yumbing, Mambajao. From the beach, you can immediately spot the famous “White Island”. It is so amazing when you get to see the “best of both worlds” — on one side the great Camiguin volcano and mountainous side and on the other side, a vast, tree-less, pure white sand beach.

We went there early in the morning, around 6 AM. The wind was so cold and soothing, you’ll really smell the fresh salty essence of the sea. We ate, swam, and enjoyed the view while walking along the white beach playing with the waves as they crashed on our feet. It was simply amazing, relaxing, and enjoying all at the same time!

As evening came, a relaxing hot bath would be a very good idea to sooth all the burns and muscle pains we got from too much swimming in the beach – so we decided to visit Ardent Spring. Ardent Spring is just within the vicinity of the island’s capital, Mambajao – an eccentric paradise of surging hot water surrounded with tall and lush tress, chirping birds and insects. Hot water streams like mini waterfalls in Ardent’s four-tiered pool which vary in depth and warmth.

We decided to try the most hottest pool — around 38 degrees Celsius. It is located at the bottom of the four-tiered pool, a little secluded and its depth is just around 3 meters high. You can actually relax, unwind, and even sleep while lounging off the natural jacuzzi. It was so relaxing that I could feel my body transform from tired and aching, to strong and healthy.

It was a short trip and it saddens me to know that we haven’t visited the other beautiful spots that other people mentioned. But there is really no need to worry, we’ll be coming back for more, and besides, it’s just a bus and ferry ride away from home.

For those who haven’t visited this beautiful place, please do so… it will definitely take your breath away!