I arrived at my grandparents' house in Alcoy at almost midnight on Friday. The music festivity of the crickets brings beats of serenity to a calm, starry night. The fireflies on the old Tamarind tree are so magical. I missed the place. It was always my go-to place when I needed a pause from the bustling city life.
As I had a morning walk in my stood my grandparent's garden, overlooking the small town of Alcoy, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It had been years since I last visited this place, but the memories flooded back as if they were only yesterday. My grandfather had long since passed away, but their home remained, a silent witness to the many happy summers I had spent here as a child.
I had decided to take a short break from my busy life and spend a weekend in Alcoy. I wanted to relive the carefree days of my childhood, to visit the places I had once frequented and find solace in their familiarity. With a light heart and a sense of excitement, I set off to explore the town.
On Saturday morning, I headed to Tingko Beach. The beach was one of my favorite places as a child, and I couldn't wait to see it again. As I walked along the shoreline, the gentle breeze blowing in my hair, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The sand was still as soft as I remembered, and the water was crystal clear. The familiar sound of waves crashing on the shore filled me with joy, and I couldn't help but smile.
I spent the morning lounging on the beach, watching my nieces swimming, having fun, and soaking up the sun. As the afternoon approached, I decided to head back to town and explore some more. My next stop was Cafe Malaya, a cozy little coffee shop. I was in awe when I heard about a cafe in town. It showed that the little town I spent my summer thrived and grew. It's always good to see progress because there will be local jobs. The cafe brings a paint of modernity with its minimalist aesthetics but still carries the countryside vibe. I quietly sat down, ordered a cup of coffee, eavesdropped on strangers' chitchats, and watched people.
As I sat there, sipping my coffee and indulging in serenity, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. There was something special about being in a familiar place, surrounded by people who knew and loved you. I looked around the cafe and saw many familiar faces from my childhood. They had grown older, of course, but they still greeted me with warm smiles and kind words.
As the sun began to set, I decided to make my way to the Poblacion and ended up in front of Sta. Rosa De Lima Parish. The church was another place that held a special place in my heart. My grandparents had taken me there every Sunday, and I had many fond memories of the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful stained glass windows. Aside from the place, the spooky stories of ringing bells at midnight always bring the good old days. The familiar smell of incense and candles greeted me as I stepped inside the church. Some pray, and others sit quietly, lost in thought. I found a quiet corner and sat down, feeling a sense of peace wash over me. The church was as beautiful as ever, and the stained glass windows still took my breath away.
As I sat there, lost in thought, I realized how much this little town had meant to me. It was more than just a place; it was a part of me. It shaped me into the person I am today and has given me many happy memories. As the night wore on, I left the church and made my way back to my grandparent's home. I climbed to the balcony once more and gazed out at the town. It was a quiet night, and the stars shone brightly overhead. I felt a sense of gratitude for the weekend I had spent here, the memories I had relived, and the introspection that had come with them.
As I headed to bed that night, I knew I would always carry a part of Alcoy with me, no matter where I went. It was a special place of solace and joy, and I knew I would return one day. But for now, I slept soundly, feeling content and at peace.
The next day, I woke up early and decided to walk around town. I wanted to see more of the places I had loved as a child, to revisit the memories that had shaped me. I walked down familiar streets, past small shops and quaint houses, and soon found myself at the town plaza.
The plaza was bustling with activity. People were selling fresh produce, children were playing, and locals were catching up with each other. I couldn't help but smile as I took in the sights and sounds of the place I had once called home.
I decided to grab breakfast from one of the food vendors in the plaza. I ordered a hot bowl of beef noodle soup, a local specialty, and savored each mouthful. It was comforting and delicious, just as I remembered it.
I decided to spend some time at the beach again. I rented a paddleboard and spent the afternoon around the clear blue waters. The sun was warm on my skin, and the gentle waves were calming. It was a serene and relaxing experience that brought back many happy memories.
As I headed back to my grandparent's home, I felt a sense of closure. I had spent the weekend reliving memories, connecting with my past, and discovering new things about the place I had called home. It was a heartwarming experience that helped me appreciate life's beauty and the importance of the people and places that shape us.
As I packed my bags the following day, I felt a sense of reluctance to leave. Alcoy had been a sanctuary for me, a place of solace and joy. But as I walked out of the door, I knew I would always carry a piece of it. It had been a meaningful and fulfilling weekend, and I was grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with my roots.
As I returned to my busy life, I carried with me the memories, the warmth, and the introspection that Alcoy had given me. It was a place that I would always hold dear and had helped me grow and become the person I am today.
All photos are from the author.