Introducing Malapascua island – now with electricity!
Some of the friendliest people I met were in the Philippines on Malapascua island – we didn’t want to leave! Everyone seemed to genuinely appreciate having us on the island. Tourism can be a double-edged sword. The influx of money can do wonders for a local economy, but it often strips that town of its own culture (I’m talking to you Thailand, specifically Phuket).
While people have been coming to Malapascua to see Thresher Sharks for years, it’s VERY difficult to get to, and it didn’t always offer electricity. It’s still difficult to get there, but thanks to some generators, the island now has (nearly) 24 hours of electricity in most hotels. It’s new enough that you see signs advertising that they have 24 hours of electricity; it reminded me of old motels growing up that would advertise on signs that they have color TV. Ooooh!
Malapascua Island, Philippines
The beaches on Malapascua island were both empty and beautiful – it’s so difficult to get to, so only travelers that are very determined will make it. The people that are most determined tend to be going there to see Thresher Sharks. More on that in that post (click the link).
These friendly kids (below) stopped by every day. At first they were trying to sell us shells, but eventually just wanted to hang out with us. They’d request us to play music for them – interestingly, they’d nearly always request the same some. “Play Waka Waka!” Every day.
Photos from Malapascua Island
Here’s the song I referenced:
We were so excited for snorkeling in Malapascua, although unfortunately we didn’t see a single fish.
Click for more posts on the Philippines, including Boracay and Bohol.
