Escaping the Cold: A Warm New Year’s Retreat in Agoo, La Union

Sunset at Agoo

After a long and joyful holiday season, and just before school officially started, relatives from my mother’s side decided to take a quick trip. We were craving warmth after the crisp, chilly days up in Benguet. And so, we packed our bags and headed down to Agoo, La Union, a coastal town known for its laid-back beaches and rich cultural history.

A Much-Needed Escape from the Cold

The moment we arrived, the shift in atmosphere was palpable. From the cool mountain air to the soft, salty breeze of the sea, Agoo welcomed us with open arms. It was just the kind of warmth we didn’t know we needed.

Simple Joys by the Shore

We made our way to a local beach spot – one that’s familiar, comforting, and not crowded. The sun was bright but not harsh, and the sand felt soft under our feet. Laughter echoed as we played in the water. Some of us took a boat ride, skimming across the gentle waves.

But the most unforgettable part of that day came as the sun began to dip below the horizon.

When the Sun Sets, Something Beautiful Begins

As golden light stretched across the sky, we all found ourselves quietly watching. Something is humbling about a sunset—how it marks the end of a day, yet promises that another will come. It felt like a metaphor for the New Year: closing one chapter and gently stepping into the next.

In that moment, surrounded by family, laughter, and the calm hush of the sea, I felt thankful. Sometimes, the best adventures aren’t in faraway places, but in the familiar ones made special by the people you’re with.