Philippines - La Union Trip

Sorry it's been a while, but life got in the way and depression settled in. Taking us back to February 2018, the family and I went and visited La Union after our trip to Vigan. The Buddles all live in La Union, besides Kuya Bong who lives in Bulacan, so it was going to be another big reunion! I didn't get to spend a lot of time with my cousins from that side of the family growing up, mainly cause they were grown up when I was a kid but I remember Kuya Allan, Kuya Patrick, Kuya Bong Bong and Ate Princess fondly! 

As we headed that way, we made a few pit stops, and played some car games. I was getting a little nervous because the next morning I was supposed to see my best friend, who was supposed to visit me from Baguio. I was eager to see my cousins and their kids, and get to relax at this resort. However, I was misinformed, I thought that we were going to drop of our things at the hotel, and then meet them at their house. We just ended up at the resort, which was amazing, and overlooked the sea. 

I remember being excited by the night, and seeing all the food, and meeting all the new cousin and in-laws. I was still self-conscious about my body, but that wouldn't go away, so I tried to focus on the good. I took pictures, played around wtih the Ates and we all picked our rooms! I stayed with Ate Kate, Ate PR and Ate Nilda, and the room was really nice and air conditioned. I was tempted to swim and play with Marquis in the pool, however, Mother Nature had different plans. 

The night went on and we ate, drank and took pictures. Ate Princess came with her friends and I also got to meet her girlfriend! She had a new truck so she took me and a few other cousins out in San Juan, where we checked out the bar scene.

The first bar we went to was so beautiful but crowded like the Abbey, so I was quietly starting to have a panic attack, cause ew, gross, people. There were some pretty drunk Russian boys, who I didn't need to be around, so luckily we all headed out to a different bar. Ate Princess treated us to some sisig, pizza and more drinks. We got to ride the back of her truck, which is illegal in the U.S., so that night in the back I felt so free, and only slightly terrified. The wind was so strong, dare I say, breathtaking, so that was a new and fun experience for me. Jonzi, Kuya Patrick's son, was driving and he was driving like a little daredevil which in some level made it more exciting for me. 

We slept late, which was maybe not the best idea because my best friend and I planned on meeting real early the next day. Regardless, the cuzzos and I changed to pajamas and continued to laugh and share stories til the wee hours of the night. 

The next day I got up bright and early and waited for my friend to message me. The family went and got free breakfast, which was kind of a mess, but it was totally the staff's fault for not accounting for everyone's meals. And then I was pretty bummed to learn that my friend couldn't make it. She said that she got stuck in this fiesta, which she totally forgot about. I just sort of believed what she said, sulked for a bit, then moved on. There's something quite emotional about seeing someone you haven't seen in so long. I've been on both sides, where one I didn't want to be seen or two, I wanted to be seen.

After we wrapped up, Tito Ric and Kuya Miko drove us to a vineyard, where we looked at some grapes. Mom stayed in the car with Lola Senia and Lola Terry, cause it was too hot. I went along to see what the vineyards looked like and it turned into a fun photoshoot. Ate Nilda, Ate PR and I found some aratelis (delicacy fruit) which we brought to Mom and I had some of and it was the best thing ever. I missed it so much and I'm glad I was able to taste it again. 

We headed back to Manila, and attended the last mass in Quezon City, and then headed back to the house. All in all it was a great trip. Next up is us visiting Pasay City to spend time with Kuya Jobert, Ate Marijo and family!

Until next time!