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Top 9 Philippine Festivals That You Shouldn’t Miss

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Aside from the long list of travel destinations, the Philippines is also home to the oldest, most vibrant and colorful festivals in Asia. Being an archipelago influenced by several cultures within and beyond the continent, this country has a lot to offer in terms of history, performance art, and culinary adventures in the form of festive and ecstatic celebrations all year round.

Most of the Philippine festivals have religious origins mainly because a huge percentage of the country’s population has been baptized as Catholic Christians. Here are the top nine most popular festivals in the Philippines that you should experience at least once in this lifetime.

1. Sinulog Festival

One of the most popular festivities among Filipinos and even foreign travelers is Cebu’s Sinulog Festival, the main attraction to millions of festival-goers every year.

The celebration is an act of thanksgiving to the child Jesus, “Santo Niño”. The nature of the festival is so festive and colorful, with performances from cultural street dance groups from the different cities and islands of Cebu as well as from other regions in the country. These groups grace the streets of Cebu City, with crowds screaming their loudest “Pit Señor!”, from the Cebuano word, “sangpit” that means “to plead” to someone – in this case, to Señor Santo Niño.

Sinulog is held every third Sunday of January.

2. Panagbenga Festival

panagbenga-festival

Also known as Baguio’s Flower Festival, the Panagbenga is a festivity that centers on a festive thanksgiving for the year’s bountiful harvest, especially for the city’s flower industry. The festival is celebrated annually with celebrations held during the entire month of February, the most perfect time of the year for their blooming flowers.

The people of Baguio started celebrating Panagbenga in 1995 after a devastating earthquake ruined the entire city and nearby provinces. Today, exciting events such as a street parade, tours to beautiful gardens, band performances, and the most famous one, the parade of floats designed with the freshest and most colorful blooms and flowers.

3. Pintados Festival

pintados-festival

Held every 29th day of June, the Pintados Festival celebrates the bravery of ancient island tribesmen as well as the rich cultural history of Leyte. At the same time, this celebration is also a thanksgiving day to Santo Niño, the holy patron of Tacloban City.

Just like other festivals with religious and cultural themes, Pintados is a solemn and unique event where culture and religion merge, producing a festivity of graceful dances performed by “painted” warriors and princesses (Pintados actually means “painted”, specifically tattooed warriors from Philippine history), celebrating life and pleading to Santo Niño for blessings and bountiful harvests.

4. Kadayawan Festival

kadayawan-festival

Image Credit: Adeline’s Catering

Mindanao is home to the most beautiful and culturally significant regions in the Philippines. One of their festivals, Kadayawan Festival, celebrates the rich and colorful tribes of exotic Mindanao (every third Sunday of August). It is also a form of thanksgiving for the regions’ bountiful harvest for the season.

Kadayawan is derived from the word “Madayaw!”, an expression used as a friendly greeting, which translates to “good” or “beautiful”. From street dancing, fireworks display and a parade of floral floats, this fun, and the unique festival has a lot of interesting experiences to offer.

5. Ati-Atihan Festival

atihan-festival

Image Credit: Calendar Of Events

Held every third Sunday of January, Aklan has their own unique cultural festivity that attracts millions of festival-goers every year: the Ati-Atihan Festival. According to historians, it is one of the oldest and also recognized as the biggest festival in the Philippines.

The week-long festival has a lot of activities lined up but the most awaited is the actual dance and street parade characterized by the most interestingly bizarre and “frenzied” performances. Dancers and performers wear their indigenous costumes and paint their faces with culturally symbolic patterns and designs.

6. Dinagyang Festival

dinagyang-festival

Image Credit: Iloilotoday

Iloilo City always looks forward to the fourth Sunday of January for the Dinagyang Festival. The city welcomes millions of tourists and festival goers to a city-wide dance parade where different tribes from the region come together and share a culturally significant celebration among their fellow islanders.

Dinagyang Festival may not be the largest but it is one of the most unforgettable festivals, collecting several awards such as the highly sought-after recognition as the Best Tourism Event in the Philippines.

7. Moriones Festival

moriones-festival

Image Credit: Anton Barroro

Celebrated every first week of April (from 2nd to 7th day of the month), the Moriones Festival of Marinduque remains one of the most mesmerizing and fascinating festivals in the country. Thousands of people even flock to the same province just to witness the centurions in costumes parading the streets.

Performers wear helmets, also known as “morion” masks and armors to reenact the hunt for the Roman soldier who later on became a saint. The festival is basically inspired by the events during Christ’s road to crucifixion.  Unlike other Philippine festivals that are quite festive, the Moriones Festival is a solemn celebration and thanksgiving for the gift of life and grace of forgiveness.

8. Pahiyas Festival

pahiya-festival

Image Credit: Modern-Day Shoebox

While other Philippine festivals have dance parade and tribal performances as their highlights, Pahiyas Festival is a one-of-a-kind celebration of culture, colors and fresh produce. Basically, it is a type of a harvest festival where locals adorn their houses in colorful – and not to mention edible- decorations.

Families and homeowners compete for the title of having the most beautifully-decorated home, but the true essence of the festivity is centered on the bountiful harvests of the season. Vegetables, edible decorations, and even unique delicacies can be seen around town. The best part is? You can grab any vegetable decors and fresh produce for free.

9. Higantes Festival

higantes-festival

Image Credit: GreedyPeg

Higantes, which literally translates to “giants”, is a rather one-of-a-kind festival in Rizal’s town of Angono. Although it revolves around a religious theme, the parade of giants held every 23rd of November is an artistic and creative representation of the local’s creative and fun-spirited nature.

Giant statues made out of paper can reach up to ten feet in height and 4-5 feet in diameter. The street parade is directly followed by a fluvial procession in Laguna de Bay.

Conclusion

The most genuine way to fully experience the rich cultural heritage of the country’s varied regions is by experiencing these festivals. Now that you have the dates and the destinations, perhaps it’s time to check your calendar and finally book that plane ticket. Have fun!

Most Common Tourist Scams in the Philippines – and How to Avoid Them

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For true wanderlusts, it’s a dream come true to finally step foot on the country dubbed as the “Pearl of the Orient Seas” and the home to the world’s most beautiful beach destinations. However, the possibilities of unfortunate and even risky situations such as falling victims to common tourist scams can dramatically turn this dream into a nightmare.

While it’s true that such risks that can affect your entire travel experience are present, don’t let them ruin the fun. How? For starters, knowing and familiarizing yourself with the most common tourist scams in the Philippines should be one of your priorities.

Here are the most common travel scams that you should be aware of.

Airport Scams

As soon as your plane lands on the airport runway, you have to mentally prepare yourself for anything that can happen – after all, you’re set for a series of adventures: some are planned, and some can be unpredictable – and this includes protecting yourself from airport scams.

mactan cebu airport

1. “Bullet in the luggage” scam

Bringing in contraband is obviously a NO-NO if you want to make sure that your trips are free from stress, delays, or worse, jail time. However, one common scam that has made headlines recently has caught the attention of travellers around the Philippines: “bullet in the luggage”, tagged by the media as “laglag-bala” scam. What happens is, as soon as your luggage goes through the airport’s X-ray scanner, an airport staff will claim that they saw a bullet inside your bag.

Your entire luggage will then be searched and a bullet will magically emerge from your bag – and no matter how much you tell them that you have no idea how it went there, the officer, together with one or two accomplices, will ask you to step out of the line and “talk” about it in a separate, often locked room. There, you’ll be presented with two choices: miss your flight and be arrested for carrying the contraband, or pay a hefty fine that can reach up to tens of thousands of pesos.

What you should do is to assert your rights while being calm and diplomatic. It’s also important to document or record the incident as it unfolds. For instance, taking a video of what is happening often deter these scammers from going further. Also, make sure to post and share your experience online and ask the public’s help; you can also inform the higher authorities like the Police or the Airport management about the incident.

2. “Porter Theft” scam

Make sure to keep an eye on your belongings, especially if you decided to hire a porter to help you carry them. Porter theft is a common risk when travelling to the Philippines. While some just try to open your bags and check for valuables that they can steal, others can go to as far as stealing your entire bag while you’re too busy or exhausted to check on your luggage.

3. Immigration officer bribe

Another scam discovered by the National Bureau of Investigation, this is where immigration officers might question your travel documents incessantly and not let you through unless you pay a bribe. If you are in a rush, just pay and go. However, if you have time to spare, request to speak to the supervisor or make things difficult for the scammer.

Taxi Scam

Aside from the popular “rigged meter” scam, here are some of the most recent scams that target foreign and domestic tourists.

philippines-taxi

4. “No-meter” Taxi Scam

While there are a lot of decent and honest taxi drivers in the Philippines, you should also beware of those who try to fool or even cheat on their passengers, especially if you are a foreigner. The “no meter” scam is one of the methods that dishonest taxi drivers use to force their customers to pay more by not using the taxi’s meter and just asking for a “fixed” fare, which is, triple or four times the actual rate.

They often victimize tourists that are in a hurry, alone, looks exhausted from a long trip, those who can’t properly express their thoughts in English, or even older foreigners who don’t have the energy and the time to argue. To be safe, it’s best to opt for the airport “Yellow Taxis” waiting in line just outside the Arrivals are.

5. “Lost” taxi scam

 Most drivers are familiar with the most common routes around the city where they are based and with the help of a smartphone equipped with Google Maps or other navigating apps, it’s pretty much impossible to get lost – even in the big city like Manila. However, it’s still important to take note of this travel tip: before boarding a taxi, ask the driver first if they know the destination where you are headed – and only agree to start the trip if they confirm that they can take you there without a problem.

This piece of advice is important because some drivers pretend to get lost or act as if they are not familiar with the specific street or building on your address. Such delay will give them the opportunity to drive you around, wasting your precious time while accumulating a higher fare rate on the taxi meter.

6. “Taxi Spray” scam

Recent reports of taxi drivers spraying some kind of chemical on the vehicle’s AC to render their passengers unconscious have been confirmed by the Philippine police. Some of these victims were robbed and were left in unfamiliar places, mostly outside of the metro. While most of the victims are Filipinos, there is a huge possibility that there are unreported cases that involve foreign or local tourists.

Most of these drivers are not registered drivers, using either stolen or unregistered vehicles. Once on board a taxi, make sure to take note of the vehicle’s plate number, the name of the driver (an enlarged and laminated ID card should be present and visible to the passenger), and send them to a trusted friend. Be attentive and most importantly, follow your instincts.

“Too friendly locals” scam

The Philippines is home to the friendliest people in the world. However, it’s an unfortunate reality that some people have found opportunities to make money by convincing tourists, especially solo foreign travellers they just “bumped into” to hang out or go for a drink – only to drug them, and steal the their valuables. Here are some new and emerging methods that have been used to victimize travellers.

7. Karaoke Scam

Usually, someone less threatening, a female, would stop you on the street and try to engage in small conversation. Once you decided to trust the stranger, she would eventually invite you to go to a Karaoke Bar with some of her female friends.

Once inside the karaoke bar (often set in a private room), alcohol will be on the menu and they would invite you to drink and just have fun. While this sounds interesting and harmless, the fun ends when they finally manage to get you drunk – or, if you’re unlucky, drug you – and that’s the time they’ll strike. You’ll just wake up with an empty wallet and a bill for that unlucky karaoke night.

So what can you do to protect yourself from this scam? It’s simple. Don’t talk to strangers. If you want to interact with the locals, it’s best to join online travel communities or forums where you can personally invite and meet people for a good (and safe) evening of talks and drinks.

8. “Hypnosis” Scam

A lot of cases committed by a notorious group called “Budol-budol Gang” have been reported in the Philippines recently. While authorities still don’t know how the group manages to fool their victims into giving them their valuables (some incidents report of victims willingly withdrawing money from their bank account), the victims themselves believe that they were hypnotized.

In most of these cases, a female member approaches tourists or even locals and try to initiate a conversation. The stranger would ask about a place or a direction to a particular address. Another person approaches and joins in the conversation. The two strangers eventually win the victim’s trust until they finally get the opportunity to rob or steal the victim’s valuables.

Some accounts of the victims revealed that they even willingly gave and left their belongings to the strangers only to realize after a few minutes that it was obviously a scam. 

Conclusion

While these scams are real risks, never let them intimidate or scare you from experiencing the true beauty of the Philippines. It pays to be informed and make sure to always follow the three golden rules for a stress-free travel abroad: be informed, stay alert, and have fun.

Emergency numbers to call: 911 for all emergencies.

Vaccines Advice for Travelers to Philippines

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vaccinations-for-philippines

When planning a holiday getaway in a tropical country, like the Philippines, getting vaccination shots probably does not even make it into the preparation list. This seemingly insignificant measurement actually holds the final call to an awesome holiday or sick, gloomy day(s). If you want to take the precautions, below are the suggested vaccines for the common diseases in the Philippines:

1. Dengue

In a tropical, highly populated country like the Philippines, mosquitos are everywhere, even in bars and fancy restaurants. As CDC has stated, everyone is vulnerable to the disease, no matter where they stay and eat. Preparing yourself by bringing mosquito spray and lotion as well as getting rid of its possible nesting place (a container with stagnant water in it) can help reduce the likelihood of the tiny animal attack. However, it is best to get a shot before visiting the country, especially if your visit should take place during its rainy season or may involve hiking or exploring its wild zones.

Having the highest rate of dengue fever in 2015 and 2016 among other Asian countries with more than 200,000 cases, dengue is one of the country’s diseases to be taken seriously.

2. Hepatitis A & B

Culinary adventure is hard to miss when you are visiting the Philippines. The local foods look, smell and taste good. Although some dishes might look repulsive (balut, for example), most are actually tasty, if not addictive. The truth is that those yummy local foods tend to be found in local market, where hygiene is not the top priority. The food may be touched with bare hands, which may not be handwashed as frequently as they should be. The food and water are likely to be contaminated, too, due to unsanitary conditions in their local market. Avoiding food that may be taken out from sewage water like shellfish is also advisable.

So far, based on a recent research on hepatitis cases in the country, one out of seven local adults is infected. The risk of being exposed to this liver infection is higher if you are planning on getting a tattoo or anything in which needles and piercing are involved. The danger of this disease transmission also increases should sex be a part of your holiday plan.

While the symptoms of the diseases (abdominal pain, fever, nausea, fatigue, etc) may not look lethal, getting vaccinations for hepatitis A & B is crucial. Why? Because they can develop to chronic stage, in which a liver transplant may be needed to survive.

3. Rabies

Although commonly known to immunize people from infected dogs’ bites, this vaccine actually works for other animals’ bites. The Philippines is home to various exotic fauna and during your visit, there is always a chance that you will be bitten by one of them. The probability is even higher for those who fancy being outdoors doing adventurous stuff, like mountain climbing, camping, etc. Children are the ones that should be most protected by the vaccine as they have the tendency to be bitten on the head or neck and not to report the animal bite(s).

4. Typhoid

High fever and gastrointestinal problems, like diarrhea and vomitting, are the symptoms of typhoid. Quite similar to hepatitis, contaminated food and water pass on the disease. Enjoying the country’s local dishes without getting this vaccination is dangerous.  It has been reported that there are around 21,5 million people worldwide infected by Salmonella typhi, the bacteria causing the infection. One fourth of the number end in fatalities.

5. Japanese Encephalitis

Endemic to tropical and sub-tropical countries, this disease has been declared fatal in three out of ten cases. As of January to August last year, fifty seven cases were reported in the Philippines.

The virus is transmitted by mosquitos known as Culex Tritaeniorhynchus. In most cases, those who are infected experience mild symptoms, while a small percentage show sudden headache, fever, seizures, disorientation and even coma, which are the symptoms of brain inflammation or encephalitis. Currently known as one of the incurable diseases, vaccination offers the best protection.

6. Yellow fever

Spread by mosquitos in what commonly known as densely populated areas, the disease is vulnerable to those who are not in fit conditions. Although the disease is originally found in Africa, South and Central America, global mobilisation has caused international alert. This may be due to the fact that the drug to counter this virus is not yet available, leaving no other better options but to get vaccined for yellow fever. Even many countries including the Philippines ask for this vaccination proof from those who come from countries endemic to yellow fever before issuing visa.

7. Malaria

When traveling in the Philippines, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside.

Conclusion

The Vaccinations and Medications that are needed for travel vary from person-to-person. Everyone should have a personal risk assessment with a travel health professional to take into account a range of factors such as itinerary, medical condition, occupational and lifestyle risk factors and previous vaccination history. Please visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.

8 Tips For Traveling To The Philippines On A Low Budget

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Beauty of Palawan, Philippines

Pawalan’s way of saying, “Welcome to paradise” (image credit: Charm Villalon)

Southeast Asia has always been a popular destination for travelers from around the world because of its richness in cultural, historical, and natural travel experiences. The Philippines, for instance, have managed to always rank high on the list for the most favorite travel destinations in the region, especially for international wanderlusts.

Traveling to the “Pearl of the Orient Seas”

The Philippines has one of the fastest emerging economies in the continent, and this status is helping local and national tourist centers to promote the country’s brand as a top travel destination. With the improvements on the nation’s current infrastructure and continuously developing hospitality industry, the travel sector is looking at an optimistic future.

While some travel destinations around Asia can often be relatively expensive, fully experiencing the wonders of the Philippines don’t have to break the bank – if you know where to start.

Here are some typical costs for backpacking the Philippines in 2018:

  • Dorm bed in a hostel: $5–7 USD per night
  • Public ferry ride: $4–6 USD per ride
  • Jeepney ride: 20–50 cents
  • Street food: $1–3 USD
  • Restaurant meals: $4–6 USD
  • Long-distance bus: $8–10 USD
  • Domestic flight: $40–70 USD
  • Local beer: $1–2 USD
  • 1.5L bottle of water: 75 cents
  • Island-hopping: $14–25 USD
  • Diving with whale sharks: $25 USD

Here are some helpful tips for traveling to the Philippines on a low budget:

1. Be on the lookout for promo flights.

Two of the Philippines’ major airline companies, Cebu Pacific Air and Air Asia offer extremely cheap promotional flights to international and domestic travel destinations. If you’re coming from outside of the country and is planning to explore several island-destinations, booking promo fares is your best chance to save hundreds of dollars.

Pro Tip: Booking and travel period

Take note that while these airline companies give out promo flights with fares for as low as $10 several times a year, the booking period is often limited to 3-5 days. You also have to take into account competing with thousands of other passengers who are patiently waiting and refreshing their browsers for every schedule promo flight bookings.

Most importantly, the travel period for these promo flights is often set in 6 months to one year. This means that you already have to finalize your travel plans a year in advance. For others, it’s the other way around: Booking a promo flight is first on their list and the travel planning will follow right after. 

2. Read traveler’s reviews and consult forums.

Traveling can be stressful especially if you don’t do your homework enough. While there are others who don’t really make plans and just hit the road with whatever knowledge and experience they have, it’s not advisable for beginner travelers who are still learning the tricks of surviving the most amazing yet challenging adventures.

That’s why it’s a smart move to read as much as you can. Consult travel forums from trusted tourist community websites, and read travel articles form reliable and updated sources. So why are these tips important? Two things: to save money and protect your budget.

Experienced travelers offer financial wisdom that can tell you which accommodation, travel destination, or even food place, is worth your every penny.  For instance, some cheap accommodations can offer a more meaningful experience than staying at a luxury hotel; some commercialized food places will cost more but local, cheaper counterparts can taste more authentic; taking a taxi is more expensive, but alternative transport vehicles can take you to the same destination with a lower fare.

3. Travel light; travel smart.

Wherever you want to travel, whether it’s in the Philippines or elsewhere, the best travel advice is to travel light. Don’t bring your entire closet with you, especially if you’re planning to explore several places for a few weeks.

Aside from not needing to pay extra for check-in luggage, a humble yet versatile backpack can give you the freedom to be anywhere without worrying about space, comfort and that good old back pain from carrying around the unnecessary load.

4. Follow a DIY itinerary.

Creating a DIY travel itinerary may require patience and perseverance but it will all be worth it – and your bank account will thank you for your effort.

Relying on a travel agency to plan and map out your trip can be comfortable, especially for beginner travelers – but it’s a totally different story if you want to travel on a budget. Doing the planning yourself means reducing the need to pay for services and information that you, yourself, can accomplish and acquire.

5. Eat, drink, and sleep like a local.

Aside from enjoying a more authentic travel experience, eating, drinking and sleeping like a local will help you budget your trip efficiently.

There are several destinations in the Philippines that offer cheaper accommodations. Options can be Bed and Breakfast, AirBnB, hostels, and even lodging houses where you can stay with a local family for a cheaper yet more genuine experience of getting to know the true Pinoy culture.

Moreover, finding the best food places don’t have to mean searching through a list of expensive restaurants. Ask a local, or other travelers who have been to this part of the country and you’ll surely get the most interesting list of local restaurants and underrated food spots.

6. Take the road less traveled.

The Philippines is composed of over seven thousand islands facing the Pacific Ocean. As a tropical country with two constant seasons (hot and dry season), it’s an ideal destination for beach lovers, sun worshippers and nature enthusiasts.

While there are famous travel locations and island getaways that have caught the attention of international wanderlusts, there are emerging and often underrated travel destinations around the country that deserve the same spotlight – only that they’re more affordable, virgin, unspoiled, and more exciting.

Most famous places are already highly commercialized and are often twice or thrice more expensive than these undiscovered destinations. Find them, and be one of the first to experience their own definition of paradise.

7. Socialize and create connections.

Last but not the least is to socialize and create connections whether with your fellow travelers or with the locals.

One of the reasons why people travel is to meet like-minded individuals who want to share their stories and go in adventures with their crowd. By making these connections yourself, you can benefit from the inspiring lessons, helpful tips, and most importantly, practical and budget-friendly travel advice from locals and travelers alike.

8. Be Smart About Exchanging Money

No matter how you opt to change money overseas, fees are almost inevitable; the key is keeping them to a minimum. And should you desire to use your credit card, avoid using ATMs that charges commissions. Tourist can use Metro bank or Citi bank. They do not charge commissions on foreign credit cards.

A true traveler knows how to find the most wonderful destinations without having to spend thousands of dollars just to have a great time. Money cannot buy happiness, and even the best memories are priceless. Hopefully, this article will help you discover the true beauty of traveling in the Philippines and experiencing its rich and wonderful culture.

Unique Overnight Destinations Near Manila

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Anyone who has experienced working and living in Manila knows that the big city can be too exhausting especially. While there is a long list of hangout hubs in this large metropolis for couples and families like shopping malls, food parks or museums, there are just weekends when you just want to feel the fun and freedom of travel and adventure.

However, since work schedules often limit your free time, is there a way to have such an unforgettable getaway with the little time that you have? Well, the answer is YES.

Here are the most unique and one-of-a-kind overnight destinations near Manila that you should check out soon:

1. Puning Hot Springs

Puning Hot Spring

Location: Sapang Bato, Porac, Pampanga

The natural beauty of Puning’s Hot Springs is actually an aftermath of a destructive natural calamity, the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo. The site is just located at the foothills of the volcano and is now a well-established hot spring and spa destination.

Where to stay

There are several affordable accommodations that cater to overnight travelers and guests near Puning Hot Springs and Spa. For top-rated hotels and inns, you may click this link here.

How to get there

Take the bus from Metro Manila to Pampanga, and get off at the Mabalacat Bus Terminal. From Mabalacat, take a jeepney or a tricycle to Clark (main gate) and another jeepney ride to the resort’s transport pick up location near Mini-Stop, Sutherland. From there, 4×4 vehicles will finally take resort guests to the Puning Hot Spring’s main entrance.

For more details and contact information, refer to this link.

Things to remember

  • The entire resort is composed of 3 stations: the main entrance with a reception area, the spa and relaxation area, and finally, the hot springs.
  • The management offers a full package that includes a 4×4 ride to the hotel, meals, tour guide, spa services (massage, mud pack and sand spa), and access to the hot and cold spring.
  • According to the latest information, the whole experience can cost 3,000 PHP – 3,500 PHP per person.

2. Pinto Art Museum

Pinto Art Museum

Image Credit: Looloo Insights

Location: Grand Heights Subdivision, Antipolo Rizal

One of the unique art museums in the country is located in Antipolo, Rizal, where native and contemporary artworks reside. The entire museum compound is set on the side of a hill and all its artworks are housed in galleries inspired by Greek architecture.

Anyone who loves art and nature will surely appreciate the lovely uniqueness of this must-visit destination which is just 21 kilometers away from Metro Manila. Here, you have a variety that rangers from paintings to sculptures. Also, the work presented here are those done by local artists.

Where to stay

If you want to fully relax and temporarily get away from the hassles of the big city, staying overnight in Antipolo after visiting Pinto is a smart decision.

There are several accommodations in Antipolo city where you can just relax and have a quiet time with your loved ones. Restaurants with observatories overlooking Metro Manila’s skyline can be found along Antipolo’s main highway.

How to get there

From Manila, there are several transportation options that you can choose from. The most convenient is from Ayala, Makati where you can board a van or FX vehicle that will take you directly to Antipolo’s town church, locally known as “Simbahan”.

From Simbahan there’s a line of tricycles (fare is 40 PHP – 50 PHP) that will take you to Grand Heights Subdivision where the museum compound is located.

Things to remember

  • The museum is closed on Monday and is only open from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
  • There is a restaurant located within the museum compound where guests can order delicious and relatively affordable meals.
  • Entrance fee is 200 Philippine Peso for regular/adults while senior citizens and PWDs can enjoy a 10% discount as long as they have their ID cards with them.
  • Student IDs are honored and holders will enjoy a 50% discount.
  • Food and drinks from outside are not allowed; they have a “baggage counter” where you can leave your things if you don’t want to carry them around the museum.
  • Just like any museum, camera flashes are NOT allowed when taking photos.

For more details, you may contact them here.

3. Cavinti Underground River and Caves Complex

cavinti underground

Location: Paowin, Cavinti, Laguna

Cavinti is a home to one of the country’s ecotourism destinations. The site offers an adventure like no other, with its underground river and caves complex that helps travelers and adventurers appreciate the beauty of what nature has to offer.

The experience includes an orientation and exploration where guests can learn more about these mesmerizing cave formations as well as preservation efforts by the site’s management team.

According to locals, the cave complex was accidentally discovered by a farmer one day when he was on his daily hike to look for firewood. This happened just a few years ago and in fact, the whole area was opened to the public just in 2013.

Where to stay

Cavinti’s cave adventure is not for the faint of heart and you’ll need to fully prepare yourself for your trip head. Accommodations around the town are available for solo or group or weekend stays. Here’s a helpful list of hotels near Cavinti, Laguna that you can check out.

How to get there

From Manila, take a bus bound to Sta. Cruz Terminal in Laguna. From the terminal, board a jeepney going to Cavinti’s Poblacion. The whole jeepney ride will take almost an hour. Then, take a tricycle to the Bumbungan Eco Park where you can finally ride a 4×4 car to the cave’s Guard Post.

For a detailed guide that can help you plan the trip, you may contact them here.

Things to remember

  • Exploring the cave complex needs an upper beginner to intermediate spelunking experience, so this site is a perfect place for adventure seekers who want to add an item to their bucket list.
  • It’s advisable to bring your own packed meals since the trip, including transport, can take to up to 6 hours and there are no commercial establishments near the site.
  • Travel responsibly and respect the place – listen to your guide at all times.

Wrapping Up

Hopefully, this list of overnight destinations near Manila will help you have the best weekend of travel, adventure, and relaxation that you truly deserve.

Emerging Beach Destination in the Philippines: Sila Island, Northern Samar

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Many Filipino beach lovers always look forward to the Philippine summer season because aside from the fact that gloomy rainy days are over, they can finally realize their highly anticipated travel goals to their most favorite island destinations.

Indeed, summer in the Philippines is the most awaited time of the year for these sun-worshippers and several known places often come to mind when asked about their ideal beach destinations: Boracay, Palawan, Puerto Galera, and many more.

While there are popular destinations in the country for beach fun and underwater adventures, did you know that there are also several emerging beach destinations that you can add to your bucket list? Here’s one of the top picks for you.

Sila Island, aka “Pink Beach”

 While Boracay and Palawan attract millions of tourists each year because of their fine white sand and clear blue waters, Sila Island holds its own charm and uniqueness – it’s one of the few places in the country where you can experience a magical shoreline which sands shimmer in a pinkish hue.

Aptly nicknamed the “pink beach” by locals and travelers alike, this amazing destination is still untouched by the damaging effects of over-commercialization. For this reason alone, it’s a perfect choice for your next summer adventure especially if you want to experience the humble perfection of this emerging island paradise.

Pink Beach

Pink Beach

Trivia: How did Sila Island’s powdery sand get its color?

The pinkish hue of the island’s sands comes from the natural colors of coral and shell fragments. These finely pulverized materials, through thousands of years of process, have been mixed with the originally white-colored sand of the island’s shores. During mid-day when the sun is at its hottest and brightest, the beach reveals another more saturated reddish shade. 

Location: San Vicente, Northern Samar

Sila Beach is located in Northern Samar on the eastern portion of the island-town, San Vicente. Northern Samar is one of the provinces in the Eastern part of the Visayas.

How to get there

By Plane

Manila-Catarman          

Catarman has one small semi-active airport (the nearest to Sila Island) that caters to one airline company, Philippine Airlines. There are also chartered jets available from Cebu, Davao, and Manila.

However, flying directly to Catarman from Manila is not a practical option for budget travelers especially if they don’t want to spend too much on plane tickets alone.

From Catarman, you have to take another van service to reach Calbayog, the nearest city to San Isidro, the jump-off point to San Vicente.

Alternate route: Manila-Tacloban

Tacloban’s airport offers cheaper ticket prices and serves three major airline companies: Cebu Pacific Air, Air Asia, and Philippine Airlines.

From Tacloban, there are vans going directly to Calbayog, Northern Samar with an estimated travel time of 4-5 hours with a fare of 25o PHP – 300 PHP).

Upon arriving at Calbayog City, take another van to San Isidro where you can find boats going to San Vicente.

Boats going to San Vicente leaves at 7a.m. and 2 p.m. (trip schedules may change so plan accordingly) every day from Monday to Saturday (fare is at 100 PHP). Of course, schedules will depend on the weather.

Land and Sea Travel

Manila-Sorsogon-Sila Island route

From Manila, land trips and sea travels going to Sila Island in San Vicente offer more affordable options. There are bus companies which routes can take you to Bulan, Sorsogon (fares for air-conditioned buses may vary, but it usually starts at 400 PHP – 1,000 PHP).

Upon arriving in Bulan, Sorsogon, you can either walk or take a local ride to the town’s port. From the port, you can hire private boat services to take you to Sila Island. This is an option for group travel, especially if you want to explore two popular Philippine destinations at the same time, Sorsogon, and Northern Samar. Prices are negotiable and will be based on the terms that you’ve agreed with the boatman.

Manila-Calbayog route

Direct bus companies offer trips from Manila to Calbayog, the nearest Northern Samar town to San Vicente Northern, Samar, the jump-off point to Sila Island. For more details and ticket prices, you may visit this useful link here.

Boat rides to San Vicente from Calbayog can take up to 45 minutes. As mentioned above, boat fare costs 100 PHP per person.

Sights and Activities

Sila Island is lined with sturdy red and black rock formations that add allure to the paradise’s pink shorelines. While the facilities on this island are limited, it can be a haven for free divers and snorkelers alike. Beach bums can also enjoy a relaxing day under the sun.

Things to keep in mind

  1. Since Sila Island is not an established island-resort, they don’t have similar accommodations that you can find in other PH beaches. Instead, they have bamboo kiosks for a comfortable day at the beach for groups.
  2. Camping out is an option if you want to spend the night on the island as long as you observe cleanliness – and it means leaving no trash behind.
  3. Pink island locals have built toilets for the day and overnight travelers so you don’t have to worry about this aspect of remote-island adventuring.
  4. It’s advisable to bring your own food and refreshments from the nearest city since there are no stores and commercial buildings near the beach.

While it can be an unforgettable adventure to be one of the first travelers who can set foot on this paradise, it’s important to remember these three things: travel responsibly, respect the culture and the beliefs of the locals, and most importantly, have fun.

A Beginner Traveler’s Guide: Visiting Bohol, “God’s Little Paradise”

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Located in the central part of the Visayas, Bohol is one of the key destinations in the Philippines that have long mesmerized local and international tourists because of its rich variety of sights, sceneries, and experiences from the island’s best offerings: diving hubs, historical sites, beach resorts, hiking spots, and a sanctuary of unique animal species.

Unlike other tourism centers in the country, the island offers an all-in-one travel experience that cannot be found in any destination in the Philippines. If you’re planning to travel to Bohol for the first time, read on and learn more about this must-see paradise.

“God’s Little Paradise”

Bohol is a haven for all types of travelers: whether you’re a history geek, nature lover, animal conservation advocate, sea world enthusiast, hiker, diving nomads, or just a random backpacker, the island has everything you need and more.

It’s called “God’s Little Paradise” because of the island’s mysterious and charming locations, scattered across the region. What the island offers, both natural and man-made, cannot be compared with other Philippine tourist destinations – and once you’re there, you’ll find out why.

Traveling to Bohol for first-timers

Bohol is the 10th largest among all the Philippine islands. The main region is surrounded by smaller bodies of land where Bohol’s white sand beaches and diving sites can be found. Since the province’s territory is so huge, the attractions can be kilometers to miles apart from one another.

How to get there

  • By Plane

Bohol has one airport located in Tagbilaran, a component city in the province. Three of the country’s airline companies operate to and from Tagbilaran airport: Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, and Philippine Airlines (PAL).

While most of these airlines fly directly from Manila to Bohol, connecting flights coming from Cebu City can also be availed.

  • Ferry Trips                                                                                                                                      

Since Bohol is a main island in the country, several ferries and fast crafts companies operate on a daily basis, and most of them are from Cebu ports to Tagbilaran, vice versa: Ocean Jet, Lite Ferries, and 2GO.

Cebu-Tubigon ferry routes are also offered by the Lite Ferries company, with several trips every day.

Pro Tip: It’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance especially if you’re visiting Bohol during the peak travel season (March-April).

For Ferry Schedules and prices, check out these links: Lite Ferries 2GO Ocean Jet

Pro Tip: Months from June until December covers the country’s rainy season so it’s not advisable to travel to this island destination – especially if it’s your first time to avoid a stressful (and not to mention soaking) travel experience.

Going to and around the city

How does a first-time traveler navigate a large island-destination like Bohol? It depends on your itinerary and what you’re planning to do for the rest of your trip. While it can be time-consuming to travel around the island, mapping out your trip early on can save you a lot of travel.

There are different transport options that you can hire once you arrive at Tagbilaran airport. As soon as you step out of the airport building, you’ll be greeted with friendly and eager faces from local tour guides, van-for-hire service providers, and also hotel welcome staff.

Hired/Private Transport Services

  • Hiring a taxi – take note that this option is the most expensive but also the most convenient. You have to negotiate for a reasonable rate with the driver before closing the deal.
  • Hiring a tricycle (800-1,000 PHP) – local tricycle drivers may offer reasonable rates but there are limits to where this option can take you.
  • Hiring a private van – there are fixed rates when hiring private vans, and most services even offer their own itineraries. This is a practical option if you’re with a couple of friends or family members.

Pro Tip: IF you are a solo traveler and you know your PR skills, you can also share van service with other people and split the price. All you have to do is to ask around and get a nice deal.

  • Private car – if you have your own vehicle, then you’ll have the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. You don’t have to worry about directions – every smartphone has a GPS program that you can easily use to navigate the entire province.

Public Transport

  • Jeepney

Jeepneys, Philippine’s local public transport vehicles have routes from Tagbilaran to other major Bohol towns like Carmen, Jagna, and Baclayon, where most of its tourist attractions are located.

The fare would depend on the distance per kilometer, but you should expect this option to be overcrowded and most of the time uncomfortable – especially if you have several bags with you.

What to eat

  • Delicacies

Bohol has a long list of mouth-watering and appetizing delights that can be found in every major town in the province. In fact, some of these delicacies unique to this part of the Philippines have received international recognition because of their heavenly flavors.

  •  Restaurants

Bohol is surrounded by smaller islands and is a home to several species of marine creatures. The abundance of these resources makes the region one of the biggest suppliers of fresh seafood in the country. That’s why it’s no surprise to find several seafood restaurants scattered around the province. For a complete list, click this link here.

Where to go

Here are the top tourist destinations in Bohol that you should not miss on your first day:

  • Tarsier Sanctuary (Fee: 60 PHP)

There are different Tarsier sanctuaries in Bohol and one of them is near Corella. What makes this one special? It’s actually the only place on the island where tarsiers and a few other animals live in the wild and not in cages.

tarsier sanctuary

  • Loboc Town

There are a lot of interesting sights and activities in this charming little town. Aside from the friendly locals, Loboc is a home to Bohol’s most famous river, the Loboc River, where local tourism agencies offer river cruises on floating restaurants. Fee: from 450 PHP

Loboc River Cruise

Moreover, at its center also lie two old churches, the San Pedro and Baclayon church, reminding the locals of their Spanish-era history.

  • Bamboo Hanging Bridge

Bamboo Hanging Bridge in Loboc, which streaches accross the Loboc River, is a popular attraction visited by tourists. The Hanging Bridge hangs about 25 meters above the river and spans around 40 meters. The entrance fee is P10.00 for those who don’t live in the Barangay on the other side.

bamboo-bridge

Image Credit: © gabotron

  • Chocolate Hills  (Fee: 50 PHP)  

The Chocolate Hills are the most iconic attractions in Bohol. The site is made of bizarre hill formations of over 1,700 conical-shaped landforms (30-120 meters in height). It’s located in Carmen, which is approximately 55 kilometers away from Tagbilaran.

chocolate hills

Image Credit: Tommy Schultz

Aside from these common tourist spots in Bohol, there are several white-sand beach resorts around the province, with the most popular destination, Panglao. Exploring and experience this paradise needs more than a day or two of travel so make sure you properly manage your time and financial resources before finalizing your trip.

 

 

 

A Beginner Traveler’s Guide: Puerto Princesa City, the Eco-Tourism Center of the Philippines

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The Philippines is a home to many island-paradises that have amazed and awed travelers around the world for many decades. Wherever you set foot in this beautiful country, you are assured with the promise that every adventure will be unforgettable – especially if you get the chance to explore the mesmerizing eco-tourism haven that is Puerto Princesa in Palawan.

The Eco-Tourism Center of the Philippines

Located in the Western region of the Philippines, Puerto Princesa is one of the major cities on the island of Palawan. Although it’s a coastal city, it’s largely known for its huge limestone caves and most especially, its world-renowned underground river, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The coastal areas are popular sites for diving and other underwater adventures. Among the several underwater creatures found in the region are long-nosed dolphins, rays, and several species of turtles.

Historically, this island-paradise was named after a Spanish princess, Princess Asuncion who died at an early age. The place was later renamed as Puerto de la Princesa, and is known today as Puerto Princesa.

Traveling to Puerto Princesa for first-timers

Puerto Princesa’s city center only covers a small part of the entire island, but the whole city is geographically the largest (compared to El Nido and Coron) in Palawan.  Because of this, first-time travelers should remember that the main attractions are usually far from each other.

While it’s advisable to contact tour operators to help you explore and get around the city, a DIY itinerary is still doable – if you’re good at time management and have excellent navigation skills.

How to get there

There are different ways to travel to Puerto Princesa from Manila:

  • Flights

Several airline companies (Cebu Pacific Air, Philippine Airlines, AirAsia) offer daily flights to Puerto Princesa from Manila, Philippines’ capital city. In addition, the island is accessible through several other Philippine cities:  Cebu, Iloilo, Davao, and Clark in Pampanga.

Flights, including transfers from the airport to the city center, can take as long as 3 hours (approximately).

Pro tip: Planning your trip to Puerto Princesa a year in advance can save you thousands of pesos, especially if you’ll be traveling with your family. How? Promo flights from two airline companies (Cebu Pacific and AirAsia) can plunge as low as PHP 1 (excluding taxes and fees). 

  • Ferry Trips

A Philippine shipping company, 2GO Travel, offers ferry trips from Manila Pier 4 to Puerto Princesa (via Coron). However, the trips’ schedule is limited to only twice a week with a travel time of 31 hours and 30 minutes.

Depending on the type of ticket available (Tourist Class, Super Value Class), prices can range from 1,500 to 3,500.

Pro Tip: You have to book your tickets in advance especially during peak travel months such as April and May (the “summer” season in the Philippines). Furthermore, expect more foreign tourists during Western summer months like June and July.

Getting around the city

As what was mentioned earlier, Puerto Princesa covers a large geographical area, with several tourist attractions that are miles apart. For beginner and first-time travelers, the most efficient and hassle-free way to explore the attractions are to hire a private van or avail of transfer services especially if you want to maximize your stay and visit several destinations in a day.

Pro Tip: Hotels and accommodations have their own recommended van transport providers. However, it’s more practical to do your research first and read reviews online before hiring a specific service provider.

Within the city proper, tricycle services are also available (fare can range from PHP40-50 depending on the distance). This type of public transport can take you around the city especially if it’s your first day and you want to look for a great place to eat.

What to eat

Puerto Princesa is famous for one of its most in-demand delicacies, Hopia, a type of baked good. Several local stores sell Palawan’s famous hopia in Puerto Princesa, with a wide variety of flavors to choose from.

For a full meal, there are several restaurants in the city that serve Filipino and foreign dishes. Since it’s a coastal town, expect fresh and affordable seafood offered almost in every major food hub. For a complete list of highly-recommended places, check this page out.

Where to go

Puerto Princesa is one of the few places in the country where nature and progress have successfully flourished together, no wonder it’s considered as Philippine’s eco-tourism center.

For first-time travelers, here are some of the few tourist attractions in Puerto Princesa that you shouldn’t miss on your first day.

  • Sabang Bay

Puerto Princesa’s Sabang Bay is a natural museum of magnificent rock formations and majestic limestone cliffs along its long shorelines. Aside from that, cruising along its long line of beaches and coves, as well as its crystal clear waters will give a surreal and unforgettable experience that you’ll never get anywhere else.

sabang bay

  • Puerto Princesa Underground River (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

One of the major reasons why travelers choose Puerto Princesa than any other island-destinations in Palawan is because of its famous Underground River. Named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, it offers a mesmerizing view of enormous stalagmites and stalactites. The experience itself is both informative and enchanting, as tour guides will walk you through the historical, cultural and geological significance of the site.

underground river

  • Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conversation Center

Puerto Princesa is a sanctuary to many wild animals in the island and thanks to the local government’s support, the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center are able to provide a safe refuge to different species of animals like crocodiles, porcupines, Bearcats, and different types of birds.

Palawan Wildlife Rescue

Image Credit: Mikee Garcia

 

Whether you’re in Puerto Princesa for an awesome underwater fun or a thrilling nature-wildlife adventure, you’re sure that you’ll have a blast. So if you’re planning to explore everything that Palawan has to offer, this island paradise is the best place to start.

A Beginner Traveler’s Guide: Visiting Baguio, the City of Pines

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The Philippines is a tropical country and anyone who has lived long enough in this part of Asia will agree that the hottest times of the year can be unbearable – especially if you’re not a big fan of summer outdoor adventures like going to the beach and enjoying the sun.

If you’re one of these poor souls, don’t worry. You can still find your own refuge this summer and experience the best that nature and culture have to offer: by going up north.

The City of Pines

Baguio City, the “City of Pines”, is a “comfortable” holiday destination located in the Province of Benguet. It’s also known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines” because of its ideal weather especially for city folks who just want to take a break from the oftentimes excruciating summer heat. The temperature can plunge to as low as 7-8 degrees Celsius.

The city is approximately 250 kilometers north of the Philippine capital, Metro Manila. More specifically, it is located on a plateau (1,500 meters high) and is one of few developed cities around this mountainous region.

It’s basically a university town and a mountain-resort in one, but it aside from that, it has a long and rich history that goes back to the pre-colonial period. In fact, its century-old houses and native establishments are witnesses to its colorful story.

Traveling to Baguio for first-timers

Traveling to Baguio city and its nearby towns can be intimidating especially if you’re not used to the long drives or if you easily get car sick. However, don’t let this prevent you from having the best time because the trip will be surely worth it.

Face your fears and get started on mapping out your trip to this cold and cozy northern paradise. Are you ready? Here are the basics that you should know before traveling to Baguio City.

How to get there

If you’ll be coming from Manila, there are several options that you can take in order to get to Baguio. Depending on how much you’re willing to spend and how much free time you have on your schedule.

  • First-Class Bus (PHP 780 as of March 2018)

Terminals Located in Cubao, Pasay, and other parts of Manila.

Buses going to Baguio can be divided into two categories: regular aircon and first-class. If it’s your first time to travel to this part of the Philippines, choosing the latter should be your top option. Why?

First-class Baguio trips only take 4 hours (instead of the usual 8-hour trip) because they have access to a shorter and naturally faster route. Another plus is, bus companies offer extra services such as a special waiting area (airconditioned room, free coffee/water, and comfortable seats). On the road, they offer snacks and refreshments. They also play HD-movies as part of their on-trip entertainment.  Lastly, their seats are equipped with charging outlets so you don’t have to worry about empty batteries for your phone and other gadgets.

Pro Tip: REMEMBER to buy/book your tickets in advance (1-2 months earlier than your planned trip)  especially during holiday seasons and long weekends.

  • Regular Aircon (Php 445 as of March 2018)

Trips start as early as 1:00 AM but you can still catch one leaving as late as 11:55 PM. This is a smart choice for spontaneous road trips with your friends and family since seat availabilities can be secured even without advanced reservations.

The bus will make several stops to pick up a few passengers along a busy major highway, so the travel time takes longer and, depending on the time of the day, heavy vehicle traffic may cause further delays. Most seasoned travelers usually take the night bus so they won’t even notice the long hours on the road.

Pro Tip: For trip schedules (Regular Aircon and First-Class), you can check out this bus company here. 

Going to and getting around the city

Baguio City is a small yet vibrant town. Hotels and other accommodations (inns, Airbnb, hostels, dormitories) are available at the city center or nearby towns. Most tourists within the downtown area usually explore the sites by walking and enjoying the comfortable weather. However, for some destinations that are kilometers away, there are taxi services available (usually will cost you less than a hundred pesos for if traveling within the city).

What to eat

Because of its cool and comfortable weather, Baguio and its nearby towns are the country’s top producers of agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables.  That’s why it’s so easy to find food spots that offer the freshest salads for veggie-lovers out there, and a whole selection of fresh-fruit flavored desserts in almost every restaurant.

Whether you crave classical dishes or mouth-watering comfort food, there are a lot of amazing finds in Baguio that will surely satisfy your hungry tummy. For a romantic and cozy coffee date, there’s a good list of interesting coffee shops around the city that will surely make your afternoons unforgettable.

You can find a complete list here.

Where to go

Baguio City was one of the tiny colonial settlements established by the Spaniards in 1846. However, aside from its rich history, its natural environment has caught the attention of travelers, artists, and nature-lovers from around the world.

Aside from its fun and interesting Night Market (opens around 9 pm near Burnham Park), here are some of the most famous tourists’ spots in Baguio City that you should check out on your first day:

  • Lion’s Head

It’s one of the most iconic destinations in Baguio. The Lion’s Head, as its name suggests, is a 40-ft statue of the head of a lion. It’s the first tourist attraction to welcome travelers since it’s located along the major highway that leads to the city proper.

Lion’s Head

Image Credit: ronrag

  • Mines View Park

The park is actually an observation deck that offers a breath-taking view of the nearby former Gold and Copper mining town of Itogon as well as the Amburayan Valley. It’s a must-visit if you’re on your first day in Baguio not only because of its picturesque scenery, but also because of the small stores surrounding the area that sell souvenirs, native crafts, and even potted plants such as beautiful flowers and succulents.

mines view park

Baguio is a favorite destination for history and culture enthusiasts who want to experience the living and breathing richness of the province’s indigenous traditions.

Museo Kordilyera, on the other hand, celebrates the cultural identity of the region by providing a place where they can collect, preserve and exhibit the objects and other artifacts that emphasize the uniqueness of the story and history of their people before the colonial era.

museo kordilyera

Image Credit: Daniel Feliciano

Indeed, Baguio City is a magical place where history, culture and natural beauty come together to create a northern paradise that will give you the experience of a lifetime.

A Beginner Traveler’s Guide: Visiting Cebu, the Queen City of the South

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Cebu City has one of the fastest emerging economies in the Philippines, but that’s not what the whole region is known for especially if you ask the millions of local and foreign tourists who frequently visit this central Visayan destination.

The Queen City of the South

Cebu City is a first class municipality located in the province bearing the same name, Cebu Island, in the Central Visayas. It is officially recognized as a high-urbanized city with a population of over 900,000, according to the 2015 data. While all these information can be easily found online, many people – even those who had the chance to visit this tropical destination often ask: why is it called the Queen City of the South?

The title is attributed to its potential as a rising economic power not only in the Visayas but in the entire Philippines. As mentioned at the beginning of this article, it has a booming economy that promises the city’s crown to the royal throne of progress.

Traveling to Cebu City for first-timers

If it’s your first time traveling to Cebu City, you may have a few questions about the basics yet important details that you should know about before booking that plane ticket. Just like any holiday trip, the first step that you should take is to do your homework.

How to get there

If you’re a Filipino or a foreigner who lives in another part of the country, you have different options to choose from if you want to get to Cebu City. Depending on where you’re coming from, the minimum traveling time can be as short as 1 hour.

Local travelers have several options: plane, ferry, or private car. For international and foreign travelers, Cebu island is the home to Mactan International Airport, catering to local and direct international flights from other major countries in Asia.

Going to and around the city

The airport is located in Lapu-Lapu City (30-60 minutes away from Cebu City). From the airport, taxi services (200-300 pesos depending on the traffic situation) are available and will take you to the city proper.

Pro Tip: Two of Philippine’s aircraft carriers offer promo flight tickets on special occasions (New Year, Christmas, National Holidays) so you should be on the lookout for these deals online or on their website.  

A cheaper method prescribed by locals is the bus service, MyBus (located near the Arrival exit doors), which leaves every 20 minutes and will take you to SM City, Cebu where you can take other modes of transportation to your destination within and outside of the city.

Going around the city is as easy as ABC – no pun intended. “Jeepney” and “multicabs”(local public transport vehicle) routes are classified according to different letter-number combinations like 03A, 02B, 01C, and so on. You can find the detailed information and their updated routes on this page.

What to eat

Cebu City is a heaven for foodies and food adventurers especially those who are crazy about fresh and affordable seafood meals – and you can never find this opportunity in other major cosmopolitan Philippine cities. This is because Cebu City is a part of a bigger province that is composed of over 160 smaller islands. In fact, the region itself is known for its several fishing villages.

Aside from its local delicacies, there is a long list of restaurants serving international cuisines like Korean, Japanese, Italian, and even Middle-Eastern food places – but nothing beats the juiciest and tastiest lechon Cebu, or roasted (whole) pig.

Cebu’s lechon is not only the best roasted pig in the Philippines, but is also the best in the world, according to the internationally acclaimed chef, Anthony Bourdain.

Where to go

Did you know that Cebu City is the oldest city in the Philippines? It is also recognized as the very first island where Spaniards built a settlement before establishing a solid control over the country centuries ago. Their long and rich history makes the city interesting not only for history geeks but also for curious travelers.

There is a long list of Spanish-inspired government and religious establishments around the city, as well as residential buildings designed after Spanish architectural styles. However, what catches most of its visitors’ attention are the mighty and still standing post-war memorials located at the heart of the city.

Here are some of the most famous historical tourists’ spots in Cebu City that you should check out on your first day:

  • Fort San Pedro

Location: Plaza Independencia, Cebu City

Fort San Pedro is the oldest military defense structure in the Philippines built in the early 17th century. It was under the command of the first governor of the colony, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi until its downfall when Filipino revolutionaries successfully infiltrated the structure at the end of the 19th century. It was then used as a stronghold and now serves as one of the most precious reminders of the region’s courage and heroism.

Fort San Pedro

Image Credit: Fitri Agung

  • Magellan’s Cross

Location: Magallanes Street, Cebu City

This famous religious site is housed in a chapel near the city center. According to historians, it’s a wooden Christian cross mounted by the Spanish and Portuguese explorers in 1521 under the command of Ferdinand Magellan. According to locals, the cross possesses miraculous healing powers.

Outside the chapel are women and children selling candles for offering, and older women singing songs of worship and good luck to those who are kind enough to offer donations in exchange for a ritualistic prayer-dancing.

Magellan's Cross

Image Credit: Fitri Agung

  • Colon Street

If your idea of fun is interacting with the locals and enjoying the unique and genuine vibe of the city, then Colon Street should be first in your itinerary. However, for first-time travelers, it’s advisable to experience this insider culture with a local who knows their way around the place – because it could get really crowded and overwhelming.

Colon Street is a historical place in Cebu City, and is known as the oldest and shortest national road in the country. It was named after the famous explorer, Christopher Columbus.  At present, it’s a home to many local fashion stores, movie houses, old local restaurants, and many smaller establishments.

Colon Street

Image Credit: Polky Yu

Cebu City is a buzzing metropolis that has successfully kept its historical and nostalgic charm. Traveling to this part of the Philippines can be the most exciting and unforgettable getaway that you’ll ever experience, either for a family trip or a solo adventure.

Happy travels!

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