Dreaming or getting real in Dakak

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Imagine this: white sand, cool waters, beautiful view, silent breeze, greens and blues, serenity. Sounds real or fantasy?

Before you answer these questions, allow me first to recount a trip to Zamboanga del Norte, which has been filled with excitement as we opted to be tucked away at beautiful Dakak.

***** Three days in Dakak was like eternity albeit too short to marvel at nature in its raw, primitive form. God's beautiful creation, at its best, is found in paradise places like Dakak. Here, nature comes alive.

White sand splashed on the edges of a beautiful, lush, green cove with the blue sky at the backdrop. The still seawater beckoned every human being to take a plunge without fear of any waves to chase anyone away. Without the picture of skyscrapers, flyovers, and dark smog, I began to see how people have enjoyed a simple life with the earth's vibrant colors. This was the true face of mother earth which we now try to layer with urbanization, man-made wonders and technology.

The trip was the smoothest one I've taken, so far. It was my first time to step inside the newly-opened Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. There was no hassle of looooong, slow-moving queues or cramped, hot pre-departure areas. For over an hour, we flew from Manila to Dipolog.

Dakak's welcoming staff was quick to offer us leis and immediately assisted us to a waiting van. Excited about the trip, we already inquired how we would be able to tour the twin cities of Dipolog and Dapitan. The staff eagerly provided us tips and pointed us where to find tourist landmarks.

Upon arrival, a cool fruit juice was served as our welcome drinks. It was high noon and Dakak's white sand beach shone brightly as the clear waters sparkled. We had our lunch before we proceeded to our cottage which is a few walks away from the main lobby and the beach, enough to stretch our muscles and lose the calories we've just accumulated.

A few days in Dakak offered me time and space to really doze off without the disturbance of vehicles honking their horns, never be too conscious of time, read an inspirational book, sit back and relax on a porch overlooking green coconut trees. In fact, I even left my mobile phone in our cottage room without worrying if a message came through or if I had a call. This was bliss-the serenity of life I've come to experience.

Instead of the disco beats and neon lights at night, the vibrant Philippine folk dances and songs filled our dinners. Eating by the seaside underneath the strings of stars with the still sea within reach was a great delight.

I'm glad to finally come out of the confines of my three-walled cubicle. I'm happy to divert from my daily routine. I'm blessed to just have this time with myself, friends, and my Maker's masterpieces.

On top of a rocky hill called the repeater (I don't know why it was called as such), Dakak displayed a magnificent view of calmness and joyful solitude. Yes, this is God's creation and gift to humankind. I am grateful to receive such gift, notwithstanding whether I deserve it or not. To breathe the fresh air, to listen to the birds chirp, to feel the cool water embrace my skin...ahhh, this is paradise. And it's very real.