A Few Pictures Taken this Morning from Samal Island, Mindanao

[Tullioz]

These were taken this morning during my weekly escape from the main island of Mindanao.

Morning Sky

Some water falls which are common on the island

Bat Cave

Trees, which are also common on the island. Lol.

[Disc]

Wish I were there right now .. Cool shots, though!

[Tullioz]

Wish I were there right now .. Cool shots, though!

I have traveled to many parts of the world and have to say that Mindanao and some of the smaller surrounding islands have some of the most beautiful beaches and natural surroundings in the world. Best of all, there are no crowds anywhere and you can usually have the entire beach to yourself if that is your destination. Although I prefer the more remote areas, I have been to some of the more popular resorts, and have been the only guest there on more than one occasion. The reason for the small crowds is twofold, first, most Filipinos do not like being out in the sun for fear of getting darker than they already are, and second, there are many travel warnings from various governments including the US to avoid travel to Mindanao and in some cases not travel at all. And while there is an ongoing conflict, frequent bombings, gun battles, and the occasional kidnapping of foreigners especially in the South and West, common sense goes a long way. These warnings and news stories keep a lot of foreign travelers away I am sure. Davao City and Samal are for the most part safe, but I have also traveled to all corners of the island both on business and pleasure without incident. Either way, this part of the world is definitely a hidden treasure and I would recommend visiting to anyone who has the time and money to do so.