A storm is brewing, says a radio report. Small vessels were advised to cancel their trips. And there we were on the small island of Balicasag, off the shores of Bohol. We had no choice but to stay on the island. Apart from the drizzle, everything was fine. We waded through the waters and did some snorkeling. Schools of fish were swimming through the seaweeds and corals. The beach was filled with shells and coral pieces. We stayed at their open-air restaurant, enjoying the food while watching cable TV. Necklaces and bracelets made of shells were sold by local vendors. When boats were finally allowed to travel, we boarded the pump boat that took us to Panglao. Raging waves met us on our way back. We looked back to the island that had been our refuge during the storm. If I get a chance to choose a place the next time I'm stranded, I wouldn't think twice of choosing Balicasag.