Open

Upon learning this week's topic, I was confused a bit what "open" meant. I am not sure if it meant, "not close," or that bloggers can choose whatever they want to post (as in open theme). I decided to just go with the first definition, and here's my share:




The Baluarte in Vigan, Ilocos Sur was the best zoo I've seen. It wasn't really intended to become a zoo... the owner (former governor of the province Chavit Singson) just made this open area as a place for his collection of animals, and as the animals increased in numbers, he decided to open the area for the public to see. A trip to Vigan surely wasn't complete without checking this place.

What I loved most about the zoo was that most animals weren't really caged. Sure there are fences, and some animals (like the lions and tigers) had a place of their own, but some animals - the deer, camel, ostrich, little donkeys, and the small birds (ducks and chickens) were free to roam around the zoo, and the guests can even pet them! I love petting the deer and the camel the most!

Sometimes, guests can actually cross paths with some of the animals and even if I liked sharing the path with the deer, I always pray the ostrich won't be in the way because I fear big birds (even mascots).

This picture was taken November 2008, during my two week holiday with my British friend. I went back to Vigan numerous times after this visit (my last visit was March 2010), and I can't wait to be back there again.

*** Jenn ***