Maya here, a Mexicana. Hello.
My journey to Leyte began with high expectations, and the island did not disappoint. As soon as I stepped off the plane in Tacloban, I felt the warmth of both the tropical air and the locals’ hospitality. Leyte has always been a place that intrigued me, not only for its historical significance but also for its natural beauty and cultural depth.
On my first day, I headed to San Juanico Bridge, a feat of engineering that links Leyte to Samar. The view from the bridge was spectacular — turquoise waters glistened below, and the surrounding landscape was lush and verdant. I couldn’t resist taking a few photos of this iconic structure, the longest bridge in the Philippines, as I marveled at the peaceful waters below.
Next on my list was Kalanggaman Island, one of Leyte’s gems. The journey involved a short boat ride, but once we reached the island, it felt like we had landed in paradise. With its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the iconic sandbar stretching into the horizon, Kalanggaman was every bit as stunning as I had imagined. I spent the day swimming, snorkeling, and simply soaking in the beauty of this untouched island.
Leyte’s historical significance also left a deep impression on me. I visited the Leyte Landing Memorial in Palo, where General Douglas MacArthur made his historic return during World War II. The large bronze statues stand tall, commemorating that important moment in history. It was humbling to stand there and reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom.
To experience the natural beauty of Leyte in a more serene setting, I headed to Lake Danao National Park. Surrounded by a lush forest and with the calm waters of the lake, it felt like an entirely different world. I rented a boat and spent an afternoon rowing across the lake, watching the reflection of the surrounding mountains ripple across the water. This was one of the most peaceful moments of my trip, a perfect break from the hustle of daily life.
Another highlight was Tongonan Hot Springs National Park, located in the mountains of Ormoc. Here, I soaked in the natural hot springs, a relaxing experience after my days of exploration. It was incredible to be surrounded by nature, feeling the therapeutic effects of the warm waters while taking in the scenic views of the forested mountains.
My journey through Leyte was a perfect blend of adventure, history, and relaxation. From the bustling streets of Tacloban to the serenity of Kalanggaman Island and the quiet escape at Lake Danao, Leyte offers something for every traveler. As I boarded my plane back home, I knew that Leyte had left a lasting mark on my heart — a destination I would one day return to.
