Letter #21: What They See
Waiting
The man who sold it told me to wait five years. But to wait is tiresome. To witness without expectations, to allow for stillness, to simply be present as the tiny gears inch to full circle is much simpler, less heartbreaking, and sometimes, even fruitful.
As the pandemic-induced quarantine unfolded, I've become less concerned about waiting. I've stopped counting the days. They all look pretty similar to me – bare, often quiet, slow-moving as fog. Counting - anything remotely connected to mathematics, if I'd be honest - is not only my weakest suit, but it's futile to me and the work I do in editorial and publishing.
Right now, we live our days mostly in the short term – except the part where we isolate for long-term gains. In a world where no one knows an absolute, exact solution; where even scientists can only estimate the number of days, weeks, months, years we need to bear to fight an enemy we cannot see, how do you keep counting the days and making elaborate plans only to be told “not yet” over and over again and not lose a thread of hope each time?
With many liberties taken, life has changed shape. Oft-overlooked simplicities have become valuable. I work 12 to 16 hours a day including weekends, and a bike ride to run errands is now a godsend. Pre-quarantine, I viewed it mainly as exercise; a way to reduce transport costs. Now, with freedom of movement largely restricted, without access to sights outside our home, our rickety bike has become the only means to keep everything up and running in the house.
It is liberation from the toll that everyday living in these uncertain times brings.
At sunset, I'd stomp on the pedal - full halt - and just spend minutes looking at the Sierra Madre Mountain Range from afar. I'd lean my head against the wind to marvel at birds flying in Vs. I don't even bother to take photos most of the time. Eternity in seconds. That's how sunset bike rides feel to me these days. They haven't been for a very long time.
The 4 Most Beautiful Beaches Around the World
Traveling around to see the best beaches in the Philippines can be an enjoyable experience. However, have you ever thought about going to the top-rated beaches around the world?
While the Philippines has many beautiful beaches to offer, like the gorgeous ones in El Nido, you should also travel out of the country and see what others have to offer. Here are the top four beaches that you can start with.
Pantai Merah, Indonesia
Pantai Merah is more commonly known as the Pink Beach. It is one of few beaches in the world that has pink-colored sand, which is absolutely beautiful to look at. The striking color of the sand mixing with the turquoise waters truly makes it a place worth seeing.
However, the real attraction at the beach is the marine life. You can see much tropical fish, manta rays, and other aquatic life. It is also perfect for a range of water activities, like snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. If you get tired of the water, head into the Komodo National Park to see a whole other world.
Miyako Island, Japan
If you are looking to go to an unspoiled beach, then Miyako Island should be at the top of your list. Because of its remote location, one-of-a-kind ecosystem, and no inland rivers to erode the reef, the island is well-preserved.
Unlike most beaches around the world, you will find nothing but peace on the island. The sweet sound of the waves flowing and ebbing will be the only things you hear while you are on the island. Check out Maehama Beach. It’s gorgeous and perfect for swimming. You will even be able to snap fantastic pictures of the sunset against the waves.
So what are you waiting for? Get your visa from www.japan-visa.net/japan-visa-philippines and head over to Miyako Island this summer.
Trunk Bay, St. John, USVI
If the Caribbean has been on your to-go list for quite some time now, then this beach could be final push you need. Truck Bay is situated in the Virgin Islands National Park, and it is among the most photographed beaches in the world. If you are big on snorkeling, Trunk Bay should be perfect for you, as it has a 225-yard long trail that leads snorkelers underwater. There are also many hiking trails that lead to greenery.
There are many places for you to stay in the area and many lovely restaurants for you to enjoy.
Reethi Rah, North Malé Atoll, Maldives
The Maldives is a wonderful place with hundreds of beautiful beaches, making it very challenging to pick a favorite. However, the Reethi Rah and North Malé Atoll are something else.
If you want to have a relaxing and peaceful holiday, then this is definitely the spot. There is only one resort here, and it is fantastic. While the eight perfect sand circles around the island are filled with couples on their honeymoon, the place is ideal for family fun.
Letter #20: Eight
Hello, Lia.
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