Welcome to the final installment of my feature on my recent trip to The Philippines. Or to the cynical, ‘Steve showing off his holiday snaps!’

I flew south in search of paradise, to the most southerly island, Mindanao. It’s an area frequented even less by Western tourists, largely because of the increased risk of kidnappings and terrorism.

Approaching Davao City along the Mindanao coastline.

Massive coconut plantations and rice fields fill the countryside.

Coconuts, harvested and awaiting collection

Coconuts on their way to market.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beyond the coconuts was open ‘jungle’ and one of the highlights of my trip was a short guided trek on foot and a chance to explore the wilder side of The Philippines.

Photography under the jungle canopy was difficult as the light was low. So, I had a lot of editing out of blurred shots.

It’s worth pointing the camera up too, for an interesting shot of the jungle canopy above.

Jungle trekking was quite a civilized adventure

Up close with the local wildlife; a monkey plays ‘hide ‘n’ seek!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My final aim was to ‘find paradise’ and relax on the most perfect beach. I headed out on a short ferry ride from Davao to Samal Island and one of the many privately owned beach resorts there. A former Pearl Farm, the small resort of the same name was the most exclusive in the area, with pristine white sand, sparkling clear sea and stunning scenery all around. Sunbathing was out of the question though as the 36 degrees and very uncomfortable humidity meant that the shade was the place to be. Having said that, I strategically placed a coconut for a picture-postcard shot on the most beautiful stretch of beach I could find, to make a pleasingly balanced picture to sicken everyone shivering back home!

The perfect beach!

NOT an aquarium, honest!

I hope you have enjoyed my photographic tour of The Philippines. I’m afraid I can’t promise to make the next feature quite as exotic, as it’s back to the more local and winter-time ramblings now!