Banaue and some observations

We rode to Banaue just beating the rain and holed up for 3 nights.  The "downstairs" of our hotel was actually the 10th floor from the other side.

Banaue's rice terraces are mostly being abandoned or converted to cash crops like tomatoes and broccoli.  Tourism is more rewarding and much easier than farming rice also.  We explored an excellent museum of local wood carving.

We've also found some good food, some at eateries and some at the market.

Papaya and soursop/guanabana

Daily mango snack.

Schools are all over, well-maintained and busy here.

After waiting out the rain we've split up for a bit.  Bryan is doing a loop to see 3 more UNESCO-listed terraces (plus several others) while I've crossed the divide to reduce the rain possibility and strain on my knee, which doesn't like the steeper roads.  I'll poke around spending more time birding and we'll reconnect in a few days.  Bryan's route:  Batad, Bangaan, Mayoyao, Natonin, Barlig, Bontoc.  Jeff's:  Bontoc, Maligcong, Sagada.

So far both choices seem successful!