Our Way to San Fernando

Rocky A. Macapio

We had arrived at the little beach town of San Fernando,

and at last the torturous eight-hour bus voyage was coming to an
end. I had impulsively scheduled this vacation since I needed to
spend some time away from the bustle of the city. I saw the
West Philippine Sea's azure seas for the first time as the bus
traveled along the arid route. Light waves lapped at the
immaculate sand as the late afternoon light glinted off the surf.

We came to a sudden stop in front of a dilapidated outdoor

terminal. Exhaling in the cool seaside air and extending my
tense limbs, I got off the bus. The smell of salt mixed with notes
of cooked seafood and tropical flowers. My tummy complained,
reminding me that I hadn't eaten since the hurried meal I had
this morning. I carried my backpack and made my way to the
row of cozy hotels lining the palm-lined avenue that ran parallel
to the beach. I went with a locally owned establishment named
the Seaside Lodge, selecting a spacious room with a balcony
overlooking the ocean. I laid in the comfortable bed, unwinding
from the long journey, to the sound of the waves smashing.

I was exploring about the town outside when my hunger

got the better of me. I decided on a waterfront eatery with a
thatched roof and a view of the harbor. A never-ending
procession of fishing vessels in and exited, unloading their haul.
Savoring the fresh tastes, I ordered grilled fish with rice and
veggies for a simple supper. I strolled along the beach and
smiled at the local kids playing in the waves as the sun started to
drop. I had hoped for a tranquil area to relax and take in the
beauty of nature, and San Fernando delivered on my
expectations. Before heading back to my busy life at home, I
was looking forward to a relaxing week here.