It's A Soi Thing: A Stroll around Basco

It is my second day in Batanes,

and I braved myself to go out and explore the place by myself.

I stayed in one of the homestays that Ate Fe's managing.

And I asked her if she had a map

since I found no map in the airport or in the internet.

Joyfully, she said yes and handed it to me.

Yey!!

Happy Feet na!!

I started out my stroll by going on my right side.
The first thing I noticed was this Souvenir shop.
I didn't checked it out but I took note of it.
I told myself I'll pay a visit before I go home.
I believe this is just one of the shops around Basco that sells goodies
that you can bring home.

I continued to this street (see below) which led me to the

important buildings around the area.

Notice also how clean, neat and peaceful the place is.

It's just lovely to look at.

And a wonderful place to be in.

Two-thumbs up for that.

The next thing I saw was their hospital.
Yes!
It's small.
But, for sure, can save lives.
That's more important, right?

A few steps further from the hospital, almost near the park,

I spotted our flag that stood high in the flagpole behind the glorious sky.

Oh, it's been a while since I saw one like this.

(you wouldn't see this when you're working abroad)

It gave me an afterthought of my mornings during my school years.

Then I took a photo of this statue.
A symbol that reminded the locals
that once they have a hero who saved their province from the oppressors.

Behind me (photo below) is the municipal hall of Batanes.
It's simple, nice and quiet.

But of course, we wouldn't forget Jose Rizal.

This one showed the bigger view where Rizal statue stood.

I got a little tired from my amble and so I spent a few minutes in that bench.
I saw some people passed by.
I appreciated my surroundings and just took in everything.

The people were so polite.
They nodded and smiled to everyone.
They would greet each other with "Good Morning."
And the smile?
It is not something that they keep for themselves or to whom they like to give it.
They flashed it to everyone.
Nice isn't it?

Then, because the flowers were so inviting,
(and I wanted to practice my craft more)
I also took some of their photos.
They made the park beautiful and they just grow freely around the area.

Soon after,
I continued my stroll.
I went to this spot where I caught sight of Basco lighthouse.
So near yet so far.

The place is just so splendid.
Then moving on, I reached the end of the park.

On the sides,
I noticed these parked bicycles.
I wonder how long they have been there.
I bet, it's a while already.
And noticed that nobody ever touched it.
Or ever thought of stealing it.
That's one good aspect of the Ivatans.
They value honesty more than any other things.

Then I spotted this old Ivatan man
reading his paper under an Arius tree.
A typical scene in a province.
Reminds me of my grandfather when he was still alive.

Next thing I came across with is the NFA building.
And noticed that Arius trees were everywhere.

Then I got to the field.
I saw kids playing baseball on the further end
and basketball on my right side.

From where I sit (picture below),
I can see (in front of me) their National School.
Students were around the area,
possibly chatting and just enjoying each others' company.
I just love watching them.
Brought back tons of my childhood memories.

And I really couldn't get enough of that lighthouse.
I wish I could fast forward the time a little so I could see you up close.
But I have to wait.
I have to wait for him.