Five Unique Ways to View Mayon

TALK about expectation versus reality.

When Albay’s prized Mayon Volcano did not look as majestic as you thought it would be—especially at the most photographed scenery of Cagsawa Ruins—luck is clearly not on your side.

First off, clouds have decided to play hide and seek with the volcano. Second, despite the fact that it’s high noon, the sky is dull because of bad weather. And lastly, it drizzled taking away your chance to pose for some touristy shots.

If all these happened, ask your trusted tourist guide to take you to these places instead, for different perspectives of the perfect cone volcano.

Legazpi Boulevard

This is where you will get that photo where Legazpi is spelled in big and bold letters, the Albay Gulf waves quietly rolling below, and the Mayon Volcano just beyond the horizon. Legazpi Boulevard is one of Albay’s longest road stretching from the old, downtown district of Legazpi to the new and urban district.

Embarcadero

Also part of the Legazpi downtown district is the Embarcadero, which serves as the sea port and the commerce center. Stand at Embarcadero Mall and see the volcano as if littered with massive RORO ships at its foot.

The Oriental

Photo from www.legazpi.theorientalhotels.com

When in Legazpi City, Albay, choose to stay at The Oriental Hotel, which is the capitol city’s premier, five-star hotel. Located on top of a hill, The Oriental boasts of its own view of Mayon from its rooms, or from the infinity pool.

Misibis Bay

An hour drive away from Legazpi City, the Misibis Bay is a luxurious resort tucked inside the unspoiled Cagraray Island. Thus, it is famous for its Five Views point where the Mayon Volcano is embraced by rolling, green hills.

Sumlang Lake

The town of Camalig in Albay prides itself with a new sightseeing destination, the Sumlang Lake. There, tourists can ask to ride bamboo rafts for a leisurely cruise—all the while marveling at the beauty of Mt. Mayon.

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This story was originally written for and published at www.jetsetterasia.com. 

(TEXT AND PHOTOS ©JETSETTERASIA/EUDENVALDEZ)