Last year, I lived in El Nido for six months without ever feeling the desire to fly out or leave the island. I didn’t need a long-term or work visa to say I was living there, and I never had to do visa runs because I wasn’t a tourist, the island is in my own country.
Recently, though, I only went back for a quick getaway. I usually consider any trip between two weeks and one month a “vacation,” so this one definitely qualifies as a quick escape. I also had a few things to sort out while I was there.
It was the first time in a very long time that I booked a round-trip ticket to an island. Normally, I only book one-way flights because my return has always been open-ended. I usually leave a place only when I feel it’s time to go.
This time was different. I’m no longer as drawn to things that feel super temporary. While El Nido still has a place in my life, I also have things grounded in the city now.
And as always, places like this are more than just destinations, they’re sources of my inspiration.
The colors of the sky at sunset, the slow mornings with coffee, the light reflecting on the water.
These are the moments that stay with me long after I leave. They’re the kinds of details that slowly turn into lines, textures, and ideas in my work.
Some trips are long, others brief. But inspiration doesn’t measure time.
And the island still has a way of leaving its mark.
See you when I see you.
I create digital and traditional art inspired by nature, music, life, and spirituality. writeme@lheanstorm.com for Commissions, Web3 collabs & Inquiries.
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