I went on a vacation for a few days with Perry, Eric, and Glen to a resort (Sitio Remedios) in Currimao, Ilocos Norte. Perry was invited by the owner, Dr. Cuanang to cook for him over the weekend. Thankfully he was generous enough to let us tag along.

The Place is not your typical resort with the usual amenities. It's kind of a cultural get away where all you do is eat good food, relax, and catch up on important things in life. There isn't much to do. There are no televisions, no radio, not even an internet connection. It sounds boring at first, but it suits the theme of the place, a peaceful get away from the hustle and bustle of the city with the distinct Ilocano feel.

I enjoyed my stay there and I am looking forward to going back next year... hopefully! Maybe by then they'll have a Wifi connection so I can bring my work with me and stay a bit longer. I am thankful to our generous host, Dr. Cuanang who even hanged out with us several times, and thanks to Perry as well for inviting me.

If there's anything I learned on this trip, it's to value the simplicity of life. The people who live within the vicinity of the resort fish almost everyday as their source of livelihood. It's a family affair - you can see everyone pitching in - from the grand mother to the cousins of the respected families. Things are so much simpler there yet most of them seem to be happy and content. I also came to terms with Perry and our differences as father and son. I guess I am content with small talk over a few bottles of beer, knowing that I got my point across to him.