Imagine Taipei, but more relaxed. That is how I would describe Kaohsiung, Taiwan's second-largest city. Despite being laid-back, the city has evolved into a thriving metropolis brimming with modern living necessities such as charming cafes, walking paths, cycling routes, outdoor parks, museums, jazz bars, art districts, and more, all surrounded by adjacent beaches and expansive, lush, forested mountains.

Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

Cagayan, situated on the northern tip of Luzon, typically gives visitors second thoughts due to the 12-hour or longer land journey from Manila. Doubt no more, wanderers; there are daily direct flights from Manila to Tuguegarao, the province's capital city, and the plethora of attractions — natural, cultural, and cultural landmarks — make a long-distance trip to Cagayan well worthwhile for those who choose to drive.

View from the Cape Engaño lighthouse

When I signed up for this trip, I expected to explore the Caraga region that includes the five provinces of the Sur and Norte parts of Surigao and Agusan, as well as Dinagat Island. Little did I know that in the province of Davao Oriental, there is a municipality also called Caraga that claims its name from the word kalagan, which in native language refers to a "spirited person.”

A typical shoreline in Caraga.