South Batan: Racuh A Payaman

Dubbed as the Marlboro Hills or Marlboro Country.

This place is one of the first-rate destinations when you go around Batanes. 

The hills got its name from the setting of the commercial Marlboro cigarette. 

Pastureland.  Horses.  Cowboys. 

Countryside feels, right?! 

The lush green pasture that seem to divide the area into proportions is what they call  

Liveng. 

It's usually small trees or tall grass-like shrubs that are planted around the area. 

It not only serves as boundaries, 

but also

 protects the crops against nibbling animals,

against strong winds, 

and against soil erosion. 

Amazing!!

carabaos and horses feasting on the lush grass 

At that time,

I was imagining a great picnic activity here.

Either with friends or family. 

Enjoying the panoramic view.

Breathing the oceanic breeze of the Pacific. 

Sunbathing in the sun. 

Or maybe goof around might also be a great idea. 

Just do it. 

Unleash the quirky side of you. 

Or simply sit on the vast pasture. 

And contemplate.
Admire.
And be one with nature. 

By the way, the gears used in the photos above are called vakul. 

This is made of abaca fibers of the vuyabo (Philippine Date) palm 

which protects the bearer from the rain and the sun. 

In Ivatan dialect, this place is called 

"Racuh A Payaman" 

which means a vast land where you can walk around. 

So go on. 

Walk and explore the area. 

Soon after..

Hooray!!!

We found a perfect spot to chill.

Sun's hiding (that's only for a few sec or minutes though) and we love it.

Oh, look!!
Tayid Lighthouse's ostentatiously standing in the middle of the hills.
So puuurfect!!
So beautiful!

Cows of different shades feast on the pasture.

Cute isn't it? 

And remember, when you leave, always close the gate.
*As you open and close the entrance gate when you got in. 
It protects the animals from going out and wrecking the whole place. hihi!
Simple rule that every Ivatan is aware of and do.
No reminders needed.

Good job, Ivatans!!