Batanes: A Serene Island Escape in the Philippines

• HelloKamusta
  [ka-mus-ta]
• GoodbyePaalam
  [pa-a-lam]
• YesOo
  [o-o]
• NoHindi
  [hin-di]
• Please/You're welcomeMangyari
  [man-gya-ri]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sa-la-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPaumanhin
  [pau-man-hin]
• How are you?Kamusta ka?
  [ka-mus-ta ka]
• Fine. And you?Mabuti. Ikaw?
  [ma-boo-ti. i-kaw]
• Do you speak English?Marunong ka mag-Ingles?
  [ma-ru-nong ka mag-ing-gles]
• I don't understandHindi ko maintindihan
  [hin-di ko main-tin-di-han]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko makita ang menu, pakiusap
  [gus-to ko ma-ki-ta ang me-nu, pa-ki-u-sap]
• I don't eat meatHindi ako kumakain ng karne
  [hin-di a-ko ku-ma-ka-in ng kar-ne]
• Cheers!Mabuhay!
  [ma-bu-hay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko magbayad, pakiusap
  [gus-to ko mag-ba-ya-d, pa-ki-u-sap]

• Help!Tulong!
  [tu-long]
• Go away!Lumayas ka!
  [lu-ma-yas ka]
• Call the Police!Tumawag sa Pulis!
  [tu-ma-wag sa pu-lis]
• Call a doctor!Tumawag ng doktor!
  [tu-ma-wag ng dok-tor]
• I'm lostNawawala ako
  [na-wa-wa-la a-ko]
• I'm illMay sakit ako
  [may sa-kit a-ko]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto ko bumili ng...
  [gus-to ko bu-mi-li ng]
• I'm just lookingNagmamasid lang ako
  [nag-ma-ma-sid lang a-ko]
• How much is it?Magkano ito?
  [mag-ka-no i-to]
• That's too expensiveMasyadong mahal 'yan
  [ma-sya-dong ma-hal yan]
• Can you lower the price?Pwedeng babaan mo ang presyo?
  [pwe-deng ba-ba-an mo ang pre-syo]

• What time is it?Anong oras na?
  [a-nong o-ras na]
• It's one o'clockAlas-uno na
  [a-las-u-no na]
• Half past (10)Ala-una y medya
  [a-la-u-na y med-ya]
• MorningUmaga
  [u-ma-ga]
• AfternoonHapon
  [ha-pon]
• EveningGabi
  [ga-bi]
• YesterdayKahapon
  [ka-ha-pon]
• TodayNgayon
  [nga-yon]
• TomorrowBukas
  [bu-kas]
• 1Isa
  [i-sa]
• 2Dalawa
  [da-la-wa]
• 3Tatlo
  [tat-lo]
• 4Apat
  [a-pat]
• 5Lima
  [li-ma]
• 6Anim
  [a-nim]
• 7Pito
  [pi-to]
• 8Walo
  [wa-lo]
• 9Siyam
  [si-yam]
• 10Sampu
  [sam-pu]

• Where's a/the...?Nasaan ang...?
  [na-sa-an ang]
• What's the address?Ano ang address?
  [a-no ang ad-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo ba akong ipakita (sa mapa)?
  [pwe-de mo ba a-kong i-pa-ki-ta sa ma-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Kailan ang susunod na (bus)?
  [ka-i-lan ang su-su-nod na bus]
• A ticket (to ....)Isang tiket (papuntang ...)
  [i-sang ti-ket pa-pun-tang]

The Ivatan people, the indigenous inhabitants of Batanes, have lived on these islands for over 4,000 years. They developed a unique culture and society, characterized by their stone houses, vakul headgear, and traditional farming and fishing practices. The Ivatan's resilience is reflected in their ability to thrive in a landscape often battered by typhoons and strong winds.

In 1782, the Spanish colonial government formally annexed Batanes. The Spanish influence brought Christianity to the islands, with churches like San Jose de Ivana and San Carlos Borromeo becoming central to Ivatan life. The Spanish also introduced new agricultural techniques and crops, such as corn and tobacco, which complemented the Ivatan's existing farming practices.

Following the Spanish-American War, Batanes became part of the United States' Philippine territory in 1901. The American period saw the introduction of public education and modern infrastructure. The Ivatans began to experience a degree of modernization, with the construction of schools, roads, and health facilities. This period also marked the beginning of increased interaction between the Ivatans and the rest of the Philippines.

Batanes was occupied by Japanese forces during World War II, significantly impacting the local population. The islands saw skirmishes between Japanese and American forces, and the Ivatans suffered from food shortages and forced labor. However, the resilience and adaptability of the Ivatan people helped them endure these hardships.

After World War II, Batanes began a slow process of recovery and modernization. The Philippine government invested in rebuilding infrastructure and promoting tourism. The establishment of Batanes as a protected landscape and seascape in 1994 helped preserve its unique cultural and natural heritage. Modernization efforts have been balanced with a strong emphasis on maintaining the traditional Ivatan way of life.

Today, Batanes is known for its efforts to preserve the Ivatan culture. Traditional stone houses, local festivals such as the Vakul-Kanayi Festival, and the Ivatan language are actively maintained and promoted. The Ivatans continue to practice sustainable agriculture and fishing, ensuring that their culture remains vibrant and resilient in the face of modern challenges.

Batanes is located in the northernmost part of the Philippines. The primary gateway is Basco Airport (BSO) in the capital town of Basco. Direct flights are available from Manila (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) and Clark (Clark International Airport). It is advisable to book flights in advance, especially during peak seasons, as seats can fill up quickly.

Transportation within Batanes is limited but adequate for tourists. Tricycles and jeepneys are the common modes of transport around the islands. For a more personalized experience, you can rent a bicycle or a motorbike. Guided tours are also available and are a great way to explore the islands' scenic landscapes and historical sites.

The official currency in Batanes is the Philippine Peso (PHP). While some hotels and larger establishments accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash, especially for transactions in smaller shops and local markets. ATMs are available but limited, so ensure you have enough cash before heading to more remote areas.

Batanes is known for being one of the safest places in the Philippines. Crime rates are very low, and locals are friendly and trustworthy. However, standard travel precautions should always be taken: keep an eye on personal belongings, avoid isolated areas at night, and be cautious of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Basco General Hospital is the main medical facility in Batanes, located in Basco. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Basco where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable and modest clothing, especially when visiting churches and traditional villages. Avoid overly revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be polite and patient when using public transport. Don't expect strict schedules as services may be infrequent. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile or a simple 'hello.' A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local Ivatan dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Batanes like a local, visit the traditional Ivatan stone houses and interact with the friendly residents. Attend local festivals such as the Vakul-Kanayi Festival to immerse yourself in the culture. For a unique experience, hike to the top of Mt. Iraya for a panoramic view of the islands. Renting a bike and exploring the scenic coastal roads is also highly recommended.