That long vacation

My nine-day vacation which started last October 29 gave me three things I have been wishing for the longest time: An even tan, eight-hour sleep, and my first viewing episode of the celebrated US-version of the Queer As Folk.



I am tanned already courtesy of a punishing regimen of rowing four times weekly on Manila Bay. You add this to my growing years spent mostly under the sun in a far-flung town and what you get is a bronzy complexion --- only, it’s confined by and large to my face, arms, and legs. Taking my shirt off would parade an obviously imbalanced skin tone where some areas are noticeably lighter than the rest especially in the neck-to-groin region. It’s as if an entire sheath of shirt-shaped clothing is perpetually draped over me.

Thanks to Hawaiian Tropic’s tanning oil and a host of few other lotions and tan amplifiers, I can now take out my shirt and stare at my color to relish it. People in my rowing team as well as in the gym have noticed it. I love the tan. It makes outdoors seem so close all the time. It tells me to look forward for bright sunny days. It causes me to be melancholic and be reminded of my humble beginnings in the small town where I grew up. It proclaims I enjoy immensely a way of life involving outdoor sports and hobbies. And thanks too for the unspoiled beaches of Calatagan in Batangas for being a perfect setting to acquire perfect tan.

Not just for getting tan, but Calatagan is also an ideal place to enjoy uniterrupted sleep lasting eight hours at least.



The entire time I was there has been a gratifying experience of tranquil and restful sleep. The bedroom was less than 50 meters from the beach and all that lulls you to sleep at night are the sounds of tireless waves heading home to the shoreline.

I’m happy to declare I’ll no longer be clueless as far as Queer As Folk is concerned. I will never appear bewildered again when friends would have discussions on the latest hot guy whisked by the Brian to the backroom or about Justin’s amusing prom scene where everyone was left stunned seeing two guys kissing in the middle of the dancefloor. I’m happy I have finally watched the entire 21 episodes comprising QAF’s First Season. All in two days. After a few episodes, I realized the best way to enjoy QAF was to prop yourself alongside big fluffy pillows with chips on the side and set the mobile phone to mute mode. I’m happy I have a 5.1 surround sound system installed on my DVD player making every viewing moment a delightful entertainment experience.

Tip: It’s best to watch QAF with a small notebook and pen conveniently stowed nearby and within easy reach. There are many one-liners in the dialogue meant to be remembered and learned by heart. Their soul remains long after the lines have been delivered and scenes are cut.