Day 2: Banaue, Rice Terraces, Hot Springs, and So Much Hiking

On our second day of the trip we woke up early thank to the roosters that live beside, below and above our hotel. We had breakfast at the hotel and watched the mist rise over the terraces. We headed out on a hike to this area with hot springs and beautiful views. Our trusty guide Denwil assured us that it was an easy hike, however there were several part on the inclines where I found myself out of breath, and wondering what he considered strenuous. 

Here's our first stop, this man is prepping the field for planing. The rice plants are first grown in clumps and then they are spread throughout the field evenly to promote optimum rice production. The man moved throughout the field evening out the mud with a two by four. 

Then we had to stop while they cleared away the landslide. It is apparently a common occurrence here. 

View from the top. Looking down on the valley with the rice fields.

Starting the hike through the fields.

After we crossed the valley we came across a small "village" if you can call it that. It was a collection of no more than 7 houses. 

Waterfall! We opted for the spring-fed river instead of the hot springs. 

Hiking back out.

Lauren fully enjoying herself, and taking full advantage of the local way to carry rice. Trust me that bag was not light. 

Hiking back out, we decided that the place with the green roof would make an excellent country home. 

The view from the top.

Inside a traditional Neepa Hut. Our guide Denwil kept telling us that when we get married that we should come back with our husbands for our honeymoons in a Neepa Hut. Apparently its a surefire way to get pregnant. 

Went to the look out on our way back, and even though its dry season, it rained and we were stuck in a little souvenir shop while we waited for the worst of the rain to pass. I managed to get this photo before the heavens unleashed on us. 

This young girl was trying to hide form the rain as well.