Vacation is undeniably an opportune bonding time with family and we enjoyed all the places we’ve been to.  It  brought us to lots of  interesting places and  had us experienced activities we have not dare tried when we were young.  Part of our itinerary is to experience river water rafting in Davao City, island of Mindanao but before the real thrill, we consulted Wikipedia and accordingly ”Rafting or white water rafting is a challenging recreational activity using an inflatable raft to navigate a river or other bodies of water.  While in the office, we were assured that experienced guides and professional life guards will join the group and I asked few questions before I finally let go of the payment for a group of 6.   The package is quite expensive but never mind.. it will only be once in a lifetime experience.

Our children were very much excited with the thought that they are going to do it  finally.   I was included while we were planning our itinerary to river rafting adventure, however, I backed out after seeing the video clip.  I don’t think I can actually survive that adventure fearing I might drown for I don’t really how to swim.  A life vest might not save me enough because I might panic so I better not take the risk.  Understandably it was the young blood who are risk takers!

So a group of 6 was formed, my 3 children, a nephew and a friend and my husband who was concerned of just letting the youths on their own joined too.  I know that he is also apprehensive but his concern for the group outweighed his fears.  Good for hubby for he knows how to swim so it would not really be that hard for him to adjust in the water.

signing waiver

As advised, they should be in the office before 7am for rafting orientation.   They were asked to sign a waiver since it is considered as an extreme sports and their helmets and life vests were distributed.   Initial rafting orientations ensued and they were then transported by jeepney to the starting point  for the 13 km of adrenaline rush with more than 15 rapids.   Upon reaching there, they were given another basic rafting orientation and were taught on how to put on their life vests, the basic rafting techniques and different rafting lingos they will hear as instructions.

rafting orientation.. teaching them how to paddle

the 15 km. water rafting thrill

high five  after challenging rapids

break

It was more than 3 hours of water rafting and braving the wind and heat.   They were really exhausted and famished and when they reached the end of the line, lunch was served. It was an experience to cherish!

thumbs up!

Helmets off and thumbs up to their guide Mr. Onin for one great rafting assistance!