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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!

Top 10 Amusement Park in the Philippines

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Although amusement parks are usually not the main focus of holidays in the Philippines, there are actually some which are definitely worth a visit.

1. Enchanted Kingdom

As the name suggests, this theme park enchants its visitors with opportunities to experience worlds made up of imagination and creativity, such as the world of pirates called Anchors Away and the world of outer space named as Space Shuttle. In addition, Discovery Theater and the Seventh Portal serving as the interactive education are available for people of all ages. EK also hosts song and dance performances, animal encounters, and a fireworks show.

Operating hours: Wednesday to Friday, 2:00 pm to 9:00 pm;  Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 am to 9:00 pm
Entrance fee: Adults: P800 to P900; Kids: P500 to P600; free for kids below 36″

Enchanted Kingdom

2. Manila Ocean Park

As the only ocean theme park in the country, the place offers the perfect combination of fun and learning experiences. The most notable fun, educational activity in the park is called Mermaid Swim Experience, in which the participants are dressed up like mermaids and learn how to swim inside the big tanks. Another thing that should not be missed is the Symphony Fountain Show.

Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm; Saturday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
Entrance fee: Packages range from P610 to P2,985

3. Star City (Metro Manila)

Adrenaline seekers would definitely love this amusement park because the rides are known to be quite extreme. Some of the popular adrenaline pumping rides are Star Flyer, which is the only inverted roller coaster in the Philippines; Viking, which allows its riders to experience the rocking sensation similar to the one caused by a stormy sea; and Star Frisbee, in which spinning seats are taken up to dizzying heights. Other rides to enjoy are the Snow World for those who simply want to chill out and rides for those who fancy horror called Dungeon and Gabi ng Lagim.

Operating hours: Monday to Thursday, 4:00 pm onwards; Friday to Sunday, 2:00 pm onwards
Entrance fee: P80 (Entrance only); RIDE-ALL-YOU-CAN: P490

4. Ocean Adventure in Subic Bay

Located in Subic is an amusement park that is the exact opposite of Star City. Visiting the park can bring joy without the need to experience the extreme. Giving a chance for its visitors to interact with different sea animals directly, it is definitely a must visit for those who fancy engaging with the animals. Apart from the direct interaction, there are also animal shows, in which whales, dolphins and some other sea creatures perform amusing attractions for the visitors.

Operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entrance fee: Adults: P788; Kids: P628
Ocean Adventure

5. Manila Zoology and Botanical Garden

Better known as Manila Zoo, the site started its operation in 1959 and thus, it is regarded as one of the country’s oldest recreational parks. This 5,5 ha zoo is reported to have approximately 500 animals, most of which are mammal species. With its wide collections of flora and fauna endemic to the Philippines, like bearcat and macaques, some comment that the park looks more like a sanctuary. Apart from the animal display, playgrounds, boats and souvenir shops are available in the zoo.

Operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entrance fee: P10

6. Avilon Zoo

Popular to be the home to more than three thousand wildlife species, the zoo is as large as 7,5 hectares, which is the largest in the Philippines. Conducting internal conservation programs, the zoo is trying to save the lives of endangered animals. Not only that, it has been striving to bring more awareness of the country’s wildlife diversity to its visitors. In Avilon Zoo, you may feed some of the animals, and pose in front of the camera with its friendly primate, Trixie.

Operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Entrance fee: Regular: P700; Children: P400

Avilon Zoo

7. Sky Ranch Tagaytay

This is one of the rare places where one of the gigantic Ferris wheels can be found. The ride called the Sky Eye allows its visitors to experience getting on the Ferris wheel gondola, being lifted up 63 meter high in the air while enjoying the scenery of Taal Volcano and its Lake for ten minutes. Should such scenery be your thing, the ride called Sky Cruiser will allow you to further enjoy the views of the lake and volcano by getting on the pedal powered aerial vehicles. There is also Zipline, which will not only give you a different angle of the scenic views, but will also give you a thrill through its 300 meter zipline.

Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 am to 10:00 pm; Saturday to Sunday, 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Entrance fee: P80 to P100 (Entrance only); rides range from P50 to P150

8. Sky Ranch Pampanga

Despite its recent launch, this amusement park is a strong competitor to more established ones. Quite similar to the one in Tagaytay, its popular ride is the enormous Ferris wheel called the Pampanga Eye. Other than that, there are the so-called Double Decker Carousel, Bubble O Fun, Jump Around and Wonderflight, which are aimed at entertaining little kids, as well as booths around the park, in which the players can get prizes when they win the games.

Operating hours: Monday to Thursday, 3:00 pm to 12:00 am; Friday to Sunday, 12:00 pm to 12:00 am
Entrance fee: Free Entrance; rides range from P50 to P150

9. Kidzania Manila

What makes Kidzania Manila unique to most theme parks out there is that it is specially constructed for children. Serving as the edutainment park for kids aged four to fourteen, this theme park allows children to pretend taking up adult roles, such as being a doctor, fireman, or a cook. The tools related to the occupations have been made to meet the average size of a child. Thus, it makes the experience more fun and friendly for kids.

Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm; Saturday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Entrance fee: Adults: P630 to P770; Kids: P900 to P1100

Kidzania Manila

10. Zoobic Safari (Zambales)

If you want to see exotic animals up close, one of the places you can go to is Zoobic Safari. They boast of being “the only tiger safari in the Philippines” with more than 40 tigers in the park. The 25-ha. amusement park offers 11 attractions where guests can see python snakes, iguana lizards, guinea pigs, and other animals.

Operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Entrance fee: Adult: P695; Children: P595


6 Top Philippine World Heritage Sites

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Blessed with stunning natural views, rich culture and history, the Philippines has received worldwide recognition. According to World Heritage Convention, there are at least eight sites in the country that have made their way to the World Heritage List. The list itself is divided into three different types of universal heritage: natural, cultural, and the mixed type of both nature and culture.

1. Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park, Palawan

UNESCO put this marine park in the World Heritage List in 1993 and it is the first Philippine site to receive such recognition. The organization committee even declared the 33,200 ha traditional island region to be of irreplaceably valuable due to its coral reef beauty and diversity along with a wide range of sea species there. The place provides such wonderful marine life that even marine biologists claim to be hard to find elsewhere in the world. There are over 350 species of coral, 500 species of fish, and various kinds of whales, dolphins, sharks and turtles.

The intensely beautiful underwater park is included in the natural property category as it does not merely provide marvellous views, but it also helps keep balance of the natural environment. Aside from its biodiversity, the coral walls of Tubbataha are also wonderful diving spots for tourists (which are usually compared to the coral walls of the Great Barrier Reef).

From Manila, tourists can take regular fights to Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. At the airport, you can then take a motorcycle ride to the pier, where boats going to Tubbataha Reef are available.

The North Atoll of Tubbataha Reefs National Park

2. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Palawan

Both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the ‘New 7 Wonders of Nature, this national park is a combination of several astonishing natural features: river, mountain, rainforest, and plains. The river is as long as 8.2 km and it is considered one of the longest underground rivers in the world. Other than the length, the river is a rare natural wonder as the water comes from an inland source and it flows into the sea. On the other hand, the highest peak of the mountainous area is as high as 1,028 meters above sea level and it is even more unique with the addition of limestone plateaus. The rainforest itself has its own charm. It is home to a wide range of both endangered and endemic flora and fauna: calamian deer, mouse deer, Palawan bearcat, skunks, wild pigs, etc.

The national park is located 81 km away from Puerto Pricesa downtown area, in St Paul mountain range and 360 km southwest of Manila. Everyone wanting to visit the underground river must apply for a permit to do so, and because of limited capacity and high demand, it’s best to book a few days in advance.

Puerto Princesa Underground River

3. Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao

Despite its location in the remote Cordillera mountainous area, this is one of the places in the country that is definitely worth a visit. Getting to Banaue and Ifugao is difficult and long, but well worth the journey north. The journey from Manila to Banaue takes about 9 hours by bus (traffic can add about 2 hours). The other option is to fly to Baguio and then take a bus from there, but it doesn’t save much time. The best time to go is between February and May end, when it is least likely that the views will be obscured by low level clouds.

Not only attractive for tourists, the place has grown the curiosity of scholars, as well. In fact, they have estimated that the setting of the rice terraces dated back from 2,000 years ago. It has shown the unity of man and nature: how man forms a natural landscape to suit his needs. Completing the tranquillity of the paddy terraces is the sound of flowing water from the irrigation canals.

Apart from the popular paddy terraces in Ifugao, there are other sites, although not quite as majestic, across the country. They scatter in Kalinga-Apayao, Abra, and Benguet, areas with approximate height of 700 to 1,500 meters. In fact, all these terraces take up around 20,000 km square or 7% out of the country’s total land mass.

Banaue Rice Terraces

Banaue Rice Terraces. Image by Cabajar via Wikimedia Commons

4. Historic City of Vigan in Ilocos Sur

Back in the days when Spain colonialized the country, Vigan or what was better known as Ciudad Fernandina de Vigan was amongst the top three cities holding the most significant roles in the Philippines. The importance can be seen through the constructions around the city: religious buildings, big houses and other architectural buildings used for political activities.

With such historical backgrounds, the city is a proof of the culture combination between the foreign and local. There are several buildings representing the mixture, such as Plaza Salcedo, Saint Paul’s Cathedral and College, The Arzopispado, the Provincial Capitol Building, Simbaan a Bassit (a cemetery chapel), Calle Crisologo (a residential area with a cobbled stone street), and Burgos Museum.

From Manila, Vigan is approximately a 7 hour trip. There are buses travelling between the two cities.Besides, one can opt for a flight to the city of Laoag, which is about 80 kilometers from Vigan. From there, tourists can reach Vigan within 1 and a half hours.

Calle Crisologo Vigan

The Spanish period houses in Calle Crisologo, VIgan, Ilocos Sur. Photo by Adrian Enriquez via Pixabay.

5. Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary

In the Philippines, out of the six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, only one can be found in Mindanao. That is the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary found in Davao Oriental, the only mountain range heritage site in the country. It is home to a number of threatened flora and fauna, Philippine eagle, Philippine cockatoo, Philippine warty pig, Philippine pygmy fruit bat.

6. Beautiful churches around the country

Some of the country’s most embellished churches are Church of San Agustin, Nuestra Senora dela Asuncion, San Agustin Church in Manila, and Santo Tomas de Villanueva.

Sharing a similar name are the Church of San Agustin (known as the Paoay Church) in Illocos Norte and San Agustin Church in Manila. Although they both also share a similar concept of enduring earthquakes, the styles of the buildings are different. While the one in Illocos Norte has fourteen massive buttresses in the shape of the letter S, each of which is topped with a finial in the form of a pyramid to support its walls, the one in Manila exerts a raft type foundation allowing the construction to sway during an earthquake.

On the other hand, Nuestra Senola dela Asuncion (known as the Santa Maria Church) has Mediterranean look due to its location on the top of a hill and Santo Tomas de Villanueva (known as the Miagao Church) owns a strong fortress image because of its squat structure and its pair of massive bells.

San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church located at Intramuros Manila

Nuestra Señora dela Asunción

 

Top 10 Most Visited Museums in the Philippines

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The Philippines is a country with undeniable tourism magnet. Famous for its beautiful beaches, tempting food adventure and friendly locals, there is still something touristy hidden in the country: its museums.

Although not all tourists fancy museum visits, the cultural and historical items exhibited in the museums across the nation does picture the richness of the country. Should you be willing to give a go to museum visits, here is the list of the ones that should be on the top priority.

1. The National Museum

It goes by a different official name, which is the Museum of the Filipino People. Located in Rizal Park in Manila, this is a museum with easy access. Although the original building was meant for a public library, it was later renovated in 2003. It has turned into an art gallery since then.

The exhibits are practically divided into two: natural history and cultural heritage. Natural history covers the areas of botany, zoology, geology and paleontology, while cultural heritage includes anthropology, fine arts, and archaeology.

Admission: Free
Business Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Web: http://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph

2. Ayala Museum

Located in business district of Ayala in Mekati, the building has got a trendy, modern look. Different from the National Museum, which is government owned, this one is managed by private and so far, it has been the most popular private museum with the most visitors in the country.

The history of the Philippines from its prehistoric eras to the time when the country gained its independence in 1946 is potrayed through the sixty dioramas exhibited in the museum. These historical dioramas have always been the must-see attraction of Ayala museum. In addition, rare painting from the local master artists, artifacts (such as ritual objects, weapons, musical instruments) found in various regions of the country, miniature sea vessels and boats vividly picturing the sea transport evolution can be seen in the museum.

Admission: Regular: Resident – P225; Students and Senior Citizen: P125
Business Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Web: http://www.ayalamuseum.org

Image Credit: Thecrazytourist

3. Mind Museum

Cooperating with ASPAC (Asia Pacific Network of Science and Technology Centres) and ASTC (Association of Science-Technology Centers), this museum tries to give its visitors educational experiences that will provide better understanding about nature. Recognized  to be of world class quality, its galleries are surely worth visiting.

In fact, Trip Advisor has given this museum a certificate of excellence in 2017 due to the consistent good reviews from its visitors. Prior to that, it has received 2014 Thea Award for the sensory experiences. Even the building has been awarded LEED Gold Certification by the Green Building Council in the USA.

Admission: Adult: P600; Student: P450; Public school student and teacher: P150
Business Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Web: http://www.themindmuseum.org

4. University of Santo Tomas Museum of Arts and Sciences

Positioned in the university main building, this museum is a part of Santo Tomas University, which makes it the oldest in the country. The museum was meant to be used as an observation center. The collections include botany, biology and mineral. Currently, there have been new additions to the collections: cultural objects and artifacts, such as musical instruments, metal crafts, and household tools.

Admission: Adult: P50; non-UST students: P30
Business Hours: Mondays, 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm and Tuesdays to Fridays, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Web: http://ustmuseum.ust.edu.ph

5. Rizal Shrine

As the name suggests, this Spanish-Colonial looking house is dedicated for the country’s hero, Jose Rizal. Designed and reconstructed during the era of President Quirino to take after the original house of the hero’s, which was destroyed in World War II, the museum displays things that are related to Jose Rizal, such as his photographs, books, and even his execution coat. In addition to that, the well in the house has been featured as a wishing well for its visitors.

With approximately 270,000 visitors coming per year, Rizal Shrine is a must visit in Calamba.

Admission: Adult: P75; Students and Children: P50
Business Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Web:

6. Palawan Museum

The museum owns vast collections that show the rich cultural heritage of Palawan. Those who fancy finding out more about Palawan would be happy to see the exhibits: the first Philippine man’s skull and bones found in Tabon Caves along with other fossils, artifacts and relics representing Palawan historical and cultural heritage. The displayed items are divided into several sections: history, anthropology, archaeology, biology, and ethnology. Apart from that, a library can be found in the museum. It is home to various donated books, some of which are hard to find elsewhere.

Admission: Adult: P50; Student: P20
Business Hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Web:

Image Credit: Survivetravel

7. Clark Museum

Mount Pinatubo eruption, the transformation of Pampanga as one of the Philippine business zones, relics of Angeles City are some of the things that are available in Clark Museum. Located in Clark Special Economic Zone, the place which was previously used as US Military Base gives off its own magnet for tourists with high regard to historical and cultural values.

But another popular showcase that Clark has to offer the world is the 4D Theater, located right beside the Clark Museum. It is a 48-seater theater with very comfortable chairs that will make you feel as if you’re sitting back, relaxing and having a massage all while you watch a movie.

Admission: Adult: P200; Student/Senior Citizen: Free
Business Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Web: http://www.visitclark.com/museum4d.html

Image Credit: Wikimedia

8. Museo Pambata

The Museo Pambata is a children’s interactive museum, the first of its kind in the Philippines. It is in a sense an alternative to the formal classroom environment where learning resembles a one-way street – the teacher imparts knowledge and the students absorb it. In Museo Pambata, children can use their total senses and learn various concepts at their own pace. It excites the minds of the young, inspires them to learn more, and most importantly revitalizes what child learning should be: fun and exciting.

Admission: Kids and Adults: P250
Business Hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sundays, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Web: http://www.museopambata.org

Image Credit: Positivelyfilipino

9. BenCab Museum

The BenCab Museum’s structure alone is a fine work of art. It’s a four-level museum that features modern architecture with high ceiling, glass walls, and windows that allow natural light to come in. The street level is where the entrance to the museum is. The 2nd and 3rd levels are where the galleries and other art installations can be found while the 4th level is where the cafe is located.

Admission: General: P150; Student: P120; Senior: P80
Business Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (last entry at 5:30 pm)
Web: http://www.bencabmuseum.org

Image Credit: Marla Eizzel

10. Puzzle Mansion Tagaytay

The Puzzle Mansion is a museum in Tagaytay, Cavite, Philippines which hosts a collection of jigsaw puzzle which is recognized as the biggest in the world according to Guinness.

Admission: Kids and Adults: P100
Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm and Saturday and Sunday, 7:00 am to 8:00 pm
Web: http://thepuzzlemansion.com

 

10 Foods You Must Try in Philippines

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Food is a part of a culture. Tasting a country’s local food does not only make travelling experiences more fun, but it also gives better insight of the cultural diversity.

The Philippines is one of the popular tourism destinations in Asia and its local cuisines can be quite challenging for some. Well, here are its top ten local dishes that will take your travelling and culinary journals to the next level:

1. Pork sisig

This local delicacy was first introduced in Pampanga. It soon became popular throughout the country, though. As the name suggests, pork is the main ingredient for the dish. However, it is not the meat that becomes the highlight. Instead, it uses the face and ears of a pig’s, which are chopped and grilled along with chicken liver. Served in both restaurants and bars, pork sisig is one of the country’s favourite appetizers.

Pork sisig

2. Balut

This dish is unquestionably the country’s most popular dish. It is almost always exposed in every TV program covering the Philippines. Once, eating balut was even used as a challenge in an American TV show. Despite the worldwide exposure, a lot of foreign tourists visiting the country still find it nerve wrecking to get a bite. The repulsive thing about balut is the egg contains a duck embryo with its almost complete body parts, like a beak, eyes, and feathers. Not only that, the incubated duck egg is simply boiled and normally eaten right from its shell. Balut has normally had this disgusting reputation to those who have not eaten it yet. But, one has to eat it and decide what it tastes like.

3. Halo halo

When talking about the local dessert, nothing beats halo halo, especially if you are enjoying the hot sun near the beach. Not only the rich colours that make it appealing, but its ingredients are also a total delish: coconut, ice cream, kidney beans, milk and some other local sweet components. The name halo halo means mix together and  that is why all the ingredients should be mixed altogether to get the best taste. Almost every restaurant has its own version, though, some throwing in sweet potato or jackfruit to up the ante.

4. Adobo

While the main ingredients for the dish may vary: chicken, pork or squid, the dish is named adobo because of the way it is processed. The Spanish originated word means marinate, and so the meat is marinated in some kind of sauce that is commonly the result of mixed vinegar, garlic and soy sauce, but for squids, there is usually an added ingredient in the sauce: squid ink.

Image Credit: Sortedfood

5. Lugaw

It is also known by other names: goto or arroz caldo. Basically, the three refer to rice porridge, but the differences lie in the dish components. While goto is enriched with beef or pork, and arroz caldo with chicken, lugaw has no additional ingredients, but the plain porridge, which is quite similar to congee, but with thicker consistency. The local tend to consume this along with shallots, chili, and soy sauce. This dish is especially popular during rainy season.

Image Credit: Pepper

6. Pork barbecue

Quite similar to the popular satay from Indonesia and Malaysia, the Philippines has its own version of grilled and bamboo skewered meat to enjoy. However, the meat used is pork instead of chicken, lamb, or beef. These are grilled until the pork is cooked and it is also being basted during the process to add flavor and keep the meat moist. The tradition in the country to celebrate a kid’s birthday by serving the dish with hot dogs and local spaghetti.

7. Silog

If you ask Filipinos what their favorite breakfast is, they will easily tell you one or more of the famous silog. It is indeed a popular breakfast menu. Silog actually refers to a combination of fried rice, egg and meat. The name silog is usually adjusted depending on the meat used. When beef is added, the name is changed into tapsilog, tosilog for pork and longsilog for the fried rice combined with local sausages, which are name longganisa.

Image Credit: Aboutfilipinofood

8. Chicken inasal

Having been popular during the past decade, the Visayas originated chicken dish is made and served with a lot of ingredients, such as lime, annato, pepper, vinegar, soy sauce, chili and dipping sauce. it is a popular specialty in the city of Bacolod, as well as in neighboring cities and towns of Negros Occidental.

Image Credit: Angsarap

9. Chicharon Bulaklak

Chicharon Bulaklak or deep-fried ruffled fat is a popular Filipino appetizer. It is another local dish that uses a pig’s body part. This time, it is the thin layer of the animal’s intestines that looks like web. The innards are deep fried and served with vinegar, onion and chili sauce. This dish is extremely easy to find on the local streets.

Image Credit: Reelandgrill

10. Sinigang

This can be said to be the most distinguished dish of the Philipines. While other popular dishes are either grilled or fried, sinigang comes in the form of soup. As it contains tamarind, the dominating taste is sour. Those who care about healthy diet may find the dish agreeable to their expectations as it has got lots of vegetables (radish, eggplant, spinach, beans) and various kinds of meat (chicken, shrimp, fish, beef, pork). Most Filipinos like to cook sinigang with green long peppers in order to enhance the taste and add a little spice to the dish.

Image Credit: Chowhound

 

10 Most Beautiful Beach in Philippines

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Blessed with more than seven thousand islands, the Philippines is one of the top leisure destinations in Asia. It has got quite a lot of white, sandy beaches with crystal clear water. However, to make it easier for you to choose, the top ten are already picked!

1. Boracay, Aklan

Boracay is a small island in Northern Panay island. Having been awarded and noted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with its one-of-a-kind 5 km white sand, this beach is a magnet for tourists. Thanks to the world wide recognition and exposure from online tourism giants like Tripadvisor and Yahoo, a lot of foreigners from the Western countries enjoy their leisure here. Equipped with diving spots and facilities, bars, clubs, spas, hotels, resorts and restaurants, this island is perfect for both romantic and adventurous getaways.

Travel + Leisure magazine ranked Boracay 3rd best island in the world for 2017 alongside Palawan (also Philippines) and other world-famous islands like Santorini in Greece, Maui (Hawaii), Bali (Indonesia) and Galapagos Islands in Ecuador.

When to Visit: The best time to visit is from November to May. The temperature during this time ranges between 25 degrees and 32 degrees Celsius.

How to Get There: The fastest (and the most expensive) way to travel is from Manila to Caticlan airport. Then, you need to take a vehicle to Caticlan Jetty port for the 10-20 minute boat ride to Boracay.

Image Credit: Elin Chow

2. Coron, Palawan

Coron is both the name of an island off the coast of Busuanga and the name of Busuanga’s largest town. It is one of the beaches that stun their visitors with its breathtaking views. Many who have visited this beach tend to find the place fiction-like. It is in the form of a lagoon with clear, blue water, rocky mountains and beautiful coral reefs. Enriched with some historical value with the Japanese shipwrecks from the World War II under its water, this beach has been nominated in The World’s Top Ten Scuba Diving Sites by Forbes Traveler Magazine.

When to Visit: The Dry Season runs from December to mid-June. Coolest months are from December to February. On average hovering in the 30 degree celsius range plus humidity.

How to Get There: Flying is the easiest and fastest way to reach Busuanga Airport from Manila then take a van to Coron town (takes about 45 minutes).

Image Credit: suptoursphilippines

3. El Nido, Palawan

Located in Palawan, just like Coron, the beach offers clear water, white sand and astonishing view. The added benefit of visiting the beach is enjoying nature and wildlife through its beautiful forests. El Nido in Palawan is ranked No. 14 among the CNN’s Top 100 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World.

When to Visit: The best time to visit is December through March because the weather is nice and dry.

How to Get There: Most tourists coming to El Nido land on Palawan island in Puerto Princesa International Airport, though a direct flight from Manila. The journey usually continues with a van direct from Puerto Princesa airport up to El Nido bus terminal. 

Image Credit: Outoftownblog.com

4. Panglao Island, Bohol

The beach is on Panglao Island. Its beauty has earned the place a cute nickname the little paradise of pure hearts. The tourism spot is suitable for those who fancy relaxation and taking a stroll along the shore.

When to Visit: The dry, cool season between December and March is the perfect time to go. 

How to Get There: The easiest way to reach Bohol is via Cebu, where there are ferries heading to the direction every day.

5. Siargao Island

Despite the tear like shape of the island, the place is best known for its beach and waves. In between August and November, they can reach as high as twenty feet. The blue water beautifies the surfing spot. No wonder, several prestigious surfing events, like the 2017 International Women’s Surfing Cup, Cloud 9 Surfing Cup, and Surfista Surf Camps have been conducted there. Furthermore, the island has the largest mangrove forest in Mindanao which is a source of rich marine biodiversity.

When to Visit: For those who plan to go surfing, the best months would be August to November.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to get to Siargao to take a flight from Manila or Cebu city to Sayak Airport, Siargao.

Siargao Islands

6. Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

Although the beach has been compared to Hawaii due to its magnificent blue water and the seemingly endless white sand, it is not so crowded yet. It may be the result of its location on the northern part of the Philippines’ main island, Luzon, with not-so-accessible route. However, for that reason, the beach is perfect for intimate and relaxing getaways.

When to Visit: From December to March is the best time to go to Pagudpud to head out to the calmest waters, and bluest skies hands down.

How to Get There: You can fly from Manila into Laog City in Ilocos Norte and then hire a bus or a car from there. 

Image Credit: Trekearth.com

7. Bantayan Island

The island, which is located in the northern part of Cebu, offers not only a fun and adventurous holiday, but also a theurapetic one. Those seeking fun and adrenaline rush can enjoy cool sandbars and various thrilling activities, like skydiving, while the gentle waves, warm breeze, and soft white sand create peaceful atmosphere in the area.

When to Visit: Best month to visit is from January to June.

How to Get There: Most tourists go here via Cebu City, where one can take a bus to Hagnaya Port and a ferry to Bantayan Islans.

8. Camiguin Island

Those looking for a tourism spot that has more to offer than a plain beach may find this place suitable for their taste. This island indeed has a unique topography with its pear-like shape. Camiguin has more volcanoes per square kilometre than any other island on earth. Therefore, tourists coming to the place are also spoiled with mountainous terrains other than the beach itself. Some who have been mesmerized by its beauty have even referred to the place as the Garden of Eden. In addition, there is the Cross at the Sunken Cemetary that many have found intriguing.

When to Visit: If you get the chance, visit Camiguin during the Lanzones Festival, which is celebrated on the third week of October.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to Camiguin is obviously a plane trip from Cebu to to Camiguin Airport (Mambajao, Camiguin).

Camiguin Island Philippines

Camiguin Island in the Philippines. Photo by Bro. Jeffrey Pioquinto, SJ via Flickr.

9. Dakak Park Beach Resort

Tourism business seems to have grown in this place. Here, there are a lot of resorts and hotels to choose. Those who enjoy the combination of luxury and beauty of the nature are likely to have a great time in this tourism destination.

How to Get There: Dakak Beach Resort is a 30-minute drive from Dipolog City and Dipolog Airport.

Image Credit: Bernardo Agulo

10. Mactan Island

Mactan Island which is located in Cebu is home to 430,000 people. It is the most densely populated island in the Philippines and has many tourists spots and attractions. There are also numerous water sports activities, like jet skiing, sailing, para-sailing.

When to Visit: From January to May are the driest months, and you should expect rain the rest of the year.

How to Get There: You can fly or take a boat to Mactan. Mactan Island is also connected by two bridges to Cebu city.

For additional information, while it may be easy to reach some of the top ten beaches (like Dakak Park, Boracay, El Nido, Siargao in Surigao, and Puerto Princesa) by air via direct flights, the other places are likely to require you to combine a flight and land or sea transportations (the popular ones are ferries). Nonetheless, most tourists find the tiring journeys worthwhile.

About us

FAQ.ph stands for Facts, Answers and Questions about the Philippines. It is an online place where you can read interesting facts, useful answers and frequently asked questions about our country, its places, events and people. Our mission is to share stories that will help Filipinos and the world gain knowledge about everything in the Philippines, including its beautiful spots, rich history, unique society, and solutions towards the nation's progress.

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