Pinay Thrillseeker's 7 Super Shots

I am taking part in HostelBookers 7 Super Shots, and I have to thank Francis of Pala-lagaw for letting me know about this and giving me the chance to participate. If only all chain letters were this good! :)

While most of the entries were done using high-quality cameras, my 7 Super Shots were from a point-and-shoot camera. The trusty, easy to deal with, and adventurous Olympus Tough camera is one of this thrill-seeker's favorite (and must-have) travel buddies. At times, he's even more adventurous than me. He could even swim (unlike me)!

Done with the disclaimer so here goes my 7 Super Shots...

1. Takes My Breath Away

Mt. Maculot Rockies, Batangas, Philippines | June 18, 2011

For me, this is nature at its best. How I love the combination of the vibrant green forest, the earthly color of the rock, and the faint blue emanating from Taal Lake some hundred meters below. This breath taking view on Mt. Maculot just makes me want to lie down on a rock with arms wide open, look up to the sky, and scream from my heart, "Freedom!".

2. Makes Me Laugh/Smile

Clark Field, Pampanga, Philippines | February 10, 2011

Since its first year, it has been my dream to watch the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival. It was an annual affair, and it was already in its sixteenth year when I was finally able to go, yet this what was happened. Moral lesson: Be on time! The balloons will not wait for you. Luckily, we were able to immediately think of Plan B after missing out on this. 

3. Makes Me Dream

Bantayan Island, Cebu, Philippines | March 20, 2012

Sunrise and sunsets seem too elusive for me. Throughout my travels, I never fail to search for the best sunrise and sunset spots, but I have yet to witness one that will take my breath away (err, or at most, witness one). Whenever I go chasing the sunrise and sunset, all I see are clouds or fog. So far, Bantayan Island gave me the "best" sunrise I have seen in my journey. Hence, I will continue wandering this earth - guided by my dream to finally see the sunrise.

4. Makes Me Think

Mt. Pinatubo, Zambales, Philippines | January 21, 2012

Mt. Pinatubo - now a very picturesque and sought after tourist attraction in Luzon. I just can't help but think how this magnificent, timid-looking beauty caused terror, destroyed livelihood, and led to the death of hundreds some twenty one years ago. Makes me think: No matter how bad things get, there's always something better to look forward to, in God's time.

5. Makes My Mouth Water

Bulalo from Josephine Restaurant, Tagaytay, Cavite, Philippines | July 2, 2012

I am a certified beef fan! I tried to search for the best bulalo in Metro Manila but have yet to find something to satisfy my craving the way Josephine does. I won't mind traveling four hours all the way to Tagaytay just to have a taste of their bulalo - the best tasting bulalo in the world (Well, for me at least)!

6. Tells a Story

Mt. Batulao's Summit, Batangas, Philippines | July 23, 2011

How lucky am I, really? This photo will answer that. The rain cloud swiftly loomed atop Mt. Batulao as soon as we reached the summit. Rain consistently followed me on my travels and this time, I got it caught on cam!

7. I am Most Proud of (aka My Worthy of National Geographic Shot)

view from Mt. Apo, Davao, Philippines | April 22, 2011

There could be no better reward than this morning view after surviving a freezing cold night on the Philippines' highest peak. Whenever I see this, I'm reminded of how much God loves me, keeping me alive just to witness His fantastic creations.

Now allow me to pass the ball to five people who I know would do great in their versions of 7 Super Shots:

Violy of Vivi's Random Ramblings
Paula of Pondering Paodaolei
Freddie of From a Traveller's Desk
Regine of Between Coordinates
Ann of Kahel na Ulap