I thought I had explored every nook and cranny of the island and there was not a single spot that I couldn’t say “I’ve been there” already but a buddy proved me wrong last week.
Unhindered by a flat front tire and an hour’s wait for rescue as we didn’t have any tools or spare tire, we drove up to As Matuis Road past the La Fiesta Mall and all the way to the old Radar Station where we spent a few minutes taking photos of this historical structure that had survived the harsh elements of nature. Enjoying the utter silence broken only by the occasional chirping of birds was a real treat — no car engines, no radios blaring, no cellphones ringing, no other people around.
Driving down from the Radar Station, my buddy took a right turn and followed the rough road past the water reservoir. The road was unfamiliar and my senses immediately reeled with anticipation in exploring a new destination.
The road, which I learned is often used by bikers, looked like a dried up riverbed on most parts but my buddy drove his van real slowly, giving me the chance to enjoy the view and snap photos of anything and everything that caught my lens.
I bit my tongue to stop asking for the nth time where the road ended. After what seemed like an eternity of humps and bumps, we emerged from the thickets and found that we were on the main road leading to Suicide Cliff.
We went down and made a quick stopover at the Grotto and took more photos of the busload of tourists who “oohed” and “aahed” over the spectacular view of this wonderful dive spot from the observation deck above — a spot that most people who have been living here for a long time take for granted.
We then headed back to Susupe to watch the sunset from the beach. I went home refreshed and with several gigabites of photos — a bonus for driving out with a pro who was quick to stop and roll down the window each time I aimed my lens at something on the road.
When life on the main road seems too boring and you’re following the same routine day in and day out, try to take the back road for a change and see what it has to offer. You’ll be surprised to know there is more to this little gem of an island than you think. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your camera.
