NAG-ASO LAKE

 by: Jan Angel Maravilla

    Without a doubt, Albay is a popular destination for nature lovers. Manito is one of 15 municipalities in Albay Province, e very city and municipality has a number of tourist attractions.  Driving an hour away from the city isn't that bad when you're about to arrive to a breathtaking location. The beauty of nature on your route to Nag-Aso Lake, or should I say Boiling Lake, will keep you awake during the ride. Because Manito is a rural location, there aren't as many public transportation or private vehicles as there are in the city. It also implies that there is no air pollution in the mentioned area. It is also one of the reasons why Manito is a popular place to unwind and relax. The scent of Nag-Aso Lake will be the first thing you notice when you arrive. Some believe it is the sulfur odor emanating from the lake. It is surrounded by many trees, which enhances the scenery. Even from a distance, the smoke from Nag-Aso Lake is highly visible, and you can tell that it is extremely hot. If you're lucky, you'll be able to see the lake eventually boil. Tourists are allowed to go near the lake, however extra care is suggested when going along the lake's edge. Nag-Aso Lake is an Albay hidden gem. Tourists do come, but not very often. People are surprised when they hear stories about this God-given wonder. Every time a tourist came by, they would bring an egg to see if the water from the lake could cook it. Some visitors would inquire if they could swim in the lake because they assumed it was like a hotspring, but nag-aso lake is different; trying to swim there could burn your skin. The area on the lake's edge is close to the hue orange. There is also a view deck where you may set up a table and chairs and have a small gathering while admiring the scenery. The lake's stairs are bordered by talahib, which is the source of high-quality Manito-made broom. This location is extremely concealed; if no one told you about it, you would never now it existed. It's almost as if nature has embraced the beauty of this lake to the point that it can't be seen unless you go down the lake. There is a popular misconception that Nag-Aso Lake is a portion of Mayon Volcano, which is considered to be a dead volcano. Nag-Aso Lake is said to be boiling whenever the volcano erupts, although this is a fiction. Nag-Aso Lake could become noted for its natural beauty if it receives more attention. The more we travel, the more we notice nature's tranquillity. Places like this are exactly what we need when we become jaded by city life. We'd always return to nature for the peace it provides. This location may be remote and hard to find, but it is well worth the effort once we see it. Nag-Aso Lake will provide you the tranquility you need; you will rarely see a lake boiling in the middle of mountain, and this experience is something you will remember as it can only be found in the mountains of Albay.

Photos by: Proud To Be Albayano on Facebook