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Experience The Philippine Nature, white sands, hotels, resorts, beautiful mountains, beaches, nice recreation area, vacation destination, camping area and many More.
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Catanduanes island Philippines
"Catanduanes island is located in the easternmost part of the Bicol peninsula, separated from the mainland Bicol by the Maqueda Channel and the Lagonoy Gulf. It is composed of 11 municipalities, namely: Virac, San Andres, Caramoran, Pandan, Bato, Gigmoto, Baras, Panganiban, Bagamanoc, Viga, and San Miguel. There are 315 barangays all over the province and one Congressional district. It is indeed Bicol’s best-kept secret. It is the first land group of the Philippine archipelago to kiss the Pacific Ocean, making it directly open to the path of tropical cyclones, thus, the Catanduanes Island has been termed, “The Land of the Howling Winds.” The perfect time to visit Catanduanes is from the months of March to August when the weather turns dry. It is coolest and rainiest from October to the early part of January, hottest from March to May.
Catanduanes, which they also call, “An Eco-Adventure Paradise,” is for those who like nature at its best. The whole strip of this pearly island of the Pacific is almost untouched, unblemished, and unexplored. It has a long string of palm-fringed beaches and deep blue waters against a backdrop of luxuriant grassy mountains, and a totally laid-back rural charm and crowned with jewel-like island. It offers a totally laid-back rural attraction, a beautiful natural environment and plenty of easy action at a pace that is always relaxed. The local folks have always chosen a relaxed rural village life. They seem to be disinterested in rush development or any hurriedly rush into the modern world. As a result, the tourism industry is still in its early stages. But if you are interested in outdoor quest, an easy lifestyle among warm and friendly people and a general escape from the hysterical rate of urban life, Catanduanes is the ideal hideaway. It is a place where you could go back to simplicity and party in the absence of man-made anxieties and self-made entrapments; a total escape, they say.
Major Industries in Catanduanes Island includes abaca and lasa that flourished in the whole province. Native products made of abaca fiber like bags, lamps, utility boxes, handmade paper, among others, beautify the local souvenir shops and serve as local “pasalubong” and souvenirs. Lately, the original abaca fiber, commonly called “pinukpok,” created and woven by the locals of Baras, Catanduanes, has now found its position in the local and international fashion industry. This native fabric has shown its usefulness in the globally attractive designs and creations of the people in Catanduanes.
In terms of the language or dialect, Bicol is the native tongue but with various tones and distinctions, especially when one goes up to the northern towns like Pandan, Caramoran, and Panganiban. English and Tagalog are commonly spoken and understood.
You will be dazzled by the provinces' rugged and various landscapes, undiscovered caves, tamed white sand beaches and colorful marine life. You will never really expect such a wonderful gift of nature exists in this part of the country. Come, experience and enjoy the richness and wonders of nature in Catanduanes Island, Philippines"
Malapascua Island Philippines
"Malapascua Island with its white Bounty Beach, the turquoise blue water and numerous coconut palm trees comes close to the cliché of a tropical paradise. A lot of people travel here to enjoy sun, warm sea, yummy food and the friendly Philippine ambiance. Swimming and snorkeling are tremendous. Those looking for more action have the choice of a number of activities. Main attractions are island hopping and scuba diving. Shell collectors may find their paradise here. Once you have set foot on the island’s white beaches you will never stop thinking about this exotic gem.
MORE about Malapascua."
The name Malapascua means "Unfortunate Christmas" in english. there's nothing unfortunate if and when you experience the beauty that the white sand beaches that the island has to offer. It is situated only 8 km off the northeast tip of Cebu Island in the green, blue Visayan sea. Malapascua lies in the middle of the Philippines. It is an archipelago, which attracts the majority of the country's tourists.
nice view in malapascua island cebu philippines
It is relatively new to the international market, but already rates highly on the list of the world’s best beaches. This tiny island has a dazzlingly white bounty beach, which is one of the best in the Philippines. Time stands still as soon you step into this "Pacific Island Dream". Malapascua Island is popular to tourists who love to swim and snorkel. This has also become a major dive centre, well-known for the crowds of harvester sharks using the marine highway between Cebu and Leyte islands. Its extraordinary long white beach stretches around the south-east coast of the island facing Cebu, Leyte and Biliran.
The other side of the island has a more bird's-eye rocky coastline and is an elegant alternative for the ever-popular white beach. Malapascua also called "Logon" is located about 8 km. northeast of Cebu mainland and 25 km. west of Leyte.
beautiful sea view in malapascua island cebu philippines
Some of the tourist says, it is the new Boracay. Far from as crowded as the famous Boracay, yet simply accessible from Cebu's international airport, this little paradise has everything the sun-worshipper or adventurer seek out. Take a dive in the crystal clear ocean at the break of a World War II Japaneese ship, go snorkeling among the fishes at the many coral reefs surrounding the island, take a tour around the island, or just relax in the white sand and let the wind in the palm trees soothe you to sleep.
Driest climate is between Feruary-May, but okay for the rest of the year but with mostly short period of rain. Once you've gone here you'll always keep coming back.
red sunset sea view in maalapascua island cebu philippines
Malapascua is also long-familiar among the international dive society. Divers travel here to meet the friendly Thresher shark. These are big and up to 6 meters, but safe to humans. The Thresher lives in very deep waters but show up daily at Monad Shoal to be cleaned by cleaner fish. This is one of the few places in the world where we can have a glimpse of this splendid fish close-up at only 23 meters distance downward.
If you want to enjoy island hopping in malapascua, hiring a banca, that is a local outrigger boat, for a day will make some of the remoter islands around Malapascua easy to get to. Take a packed lunch, a lot of drinks and spend some hours on the water accompanied by dolphins with a bit of fortune.
captivating sunset view
One possible destination is Calanggaman Island, about 75 minutes by boat. With its perfect sandbank and abundant vegetation it gives the feeling of a virgin paradise. Snorkeling and swimming are tremendous. Besides some private rangers just a few dozen people live in Calanggaman, whose lives have not changed a lot during the past decades. You might be able to buy a fish for your lunch. Other possible dream islands are Carnasa or the more distant Maripipi with its huge and scenic volcano."
Tourist Attractions in South Cotabato Philippines
"South Cotabato is endowed with numerous natural sceneries which are high potentials for tourist attraction, and blessed with creative people who maintain and develop the beauty of these places.
As the province progresses and moving towards agri-industrialization, more people in and out of the country is getting more interested of South Cotabato. At present, more potential tourist spots are being developed in the province.
Waterfalls - There are many waterfalls found in the province. The most popular is the Lonon Falls which is popularly known as the Seven Falls in Lake Sebu. Other noteworthy waterfalls are Saravia Falls in Koronadal; Matimus Falls in Tantangan; Lambusong Falls in Norala; Nongon and Traankini Falls in Lake Sebu.
Of these, the Saravia Falls in El Gawel Koronadal, is now developed into a swimming resort. The place is now becoming more popular and frequently visited by local residents. The municipal government of Koronadal is still on its way of making the place more inviting.
Lakes - It is in the municipality of Lake Sebu and T'boli where most lakes can be found. Among them, Lake Sebu is one of the favorites of tourists and local residents primarily because of its picturesque location. The lake is located between elevated hills and mountains, with tilapia fish cages scattered all over which makes it extra ordinary and captivating. It has an area of approximately 354 hectares. Adjacent to this lake, are lakes Lahit and Siloton with an area of 24 and 75 hectares respectively.
In addition, Lake Maughan in T'boli is part of the approximately 50,000 hectares area proposed to be set aside as provincial park and wildlife sanctuary.
Other Attractions - Other potential tourist attractions include the sprawling pineapple plantation of the Dole Philippines, Inc. with the imposing presence of Mt. Matutum in Polomolok and Tupi, Mambucal Sulfur Spring in Koronadal and the Nature's Bounty resort in Polomolok.
The celebration of town fiestas are likewise attracting tourists. Most of the towns have colorful fiesta celebration, usually held on their foundation anniversaries and feast days of their patronal saints."
Legend Hotel Palawan
"The Legend Hotel Palawan is the second property in The Legend Hotel Palawan's thrust to develop hotel-in-garden-setting facilities in key growth or urban centers all over the country. Strategically located at the heart of Puerto Princesa's business district, dubbed as the city's newest and finest hotel, The Legend Hotel Palawan is just minutes away from the public market and from Mendoza Park where fresh seafood and native handicrafts can be found. The Legend Hotel Palawan features an elegant atrium at the lobby with matching scenic elevator, whilst all 100 guestrooms are well-appointed and internet, e-mail-ready guestrooms. It has already built a reputation for excellent service, described by one visiting executive as "...innate caring and warmth that made our stay at The Legend Hotel Palawan an unforgettable experience."
Barcelo Asturias Hotel
"The Barceló Asturias Hotel is conveniently situated in the city outskirts. It is located along the South National Highway, Tiniguiban Heights. Public transportation can easily be used to reach the hotel. A 55-minute plane ride or a 24-hour boat ride from Manila and a 10-minute car ride from the airport will bring you directly to the beautiful hotel. Just minutes away from the city's commercial districts, the hotel is ideally located for pure fun and relaxation. The Palawan Museum and the Palawan State University is just a short car ride away, and one can reach Honda Bay without any worries. Just a few more reasons why you should come and visit the Barceló Asturias Hotel."
Batanes Philippines
"The Batanes island group is the smallest province in the Philippines in terms of population and land area. The capital of Batanes, Basco is 280 kilometers north of Apari, Cagayan (the tip of main island of Luzon) while it is only 190 kilometers south of Taiwan. Batanes lies in the vast waters of the Pacific ocean where the Pacific meets China sea. An area that for generations is almost isolated from the rest of the Philippines. Batanes consist of 10 tiny islands and islets namely: Batan, Sabtang, Itbayat, Mavudis, Siayan, Diogo, North Island and Y'ami. Only the first three islands are inhabited.
The wind swept islands of Batanes are beautiful and enchanting and they are like no other in the Philippines. Since Batanes is separated from the country by miles of rough waters, the Ivatans (the name of the people of Batanes) have developed a different culture. Ivatans are honest, gentle and polite but brave and robust. They are proud of their their heritage and their land.
View overlooking the beach sea and mountainsThe landscape of Batanes is also distinct from other Philippine provinces - steep cliffs, rolling hills, deep canyons and boulder-lined shores - not unlike New Zealand in some way. But the most noticeable of all features of Batanes is the architecture of the houses - stone walled and thick thatched roofs to withstand the battering of typhoons.
Batanes BeachThe weather of Batanes is cool and windy. And it rains any month of the year. It has an almost temperate temperature from December to February where temperatures dip as low as 7 degrees centigrade. Although Batanes lies along the typhoon belt and gets hit by strong typhoons, it get it's fare share just like other provinces on the north. But in spite of the reputation of Batanes as a backward region, it now has modern conveniences like mobile phones (cell sites by Smart & Globe Telecoms), electricity and cable television but hardly any vehicles.
Batanes Stone House on Batan Island There are a lot of things to do and see in Batanes, swim on the many beaches, see the fishing villages, the churches and lighthouses, island hop, but best of all, it is a beautiful place to reflect and admire nature."
Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
"Old Spanish HousesAbout 400 kilometers from Manila is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vigan. It is the capital city of Ilocos Sur located on the west coast of northern Luzon. One can see precious remnants of old Spanish architecture throughout the center of the city. Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia with a unique European atmosphere. Several museums exist for the many national heroes that were born here. Vigan is the oldest surviving Spanish colonial city in the Philippines. The name Vigan was derived from "Biga", a giant taro plant that grows abundantly along the banks of the Mestizo River.
Places of Interest:
Ancestral housesOld Vigan Colonial Houses – the ancestral houses were built mostly by rich Chinese traders. These great big houses are made of thick brick walls and plastering with red clay. Tile roofs are made to survive earthquakes. The Mestizo district where more than a hundred houses line side by side along Calle Crisologo.
St. Paul’s Cathedral - built in 1790-1800 by the Augustinians, this impressive Baroque Vigan Cathedral cathedral has most of its interior walls well preserved. The 12 altars and 3 naives only enhances the church beauty and grandeur. The bell tower is octagonal and is located 10 meters south of the cathedral. It is a place not to be missed when visiting Vigan.
Palacio de Arzobispado – built in 1783, it is the official residence of the Archbishop of Nueva Segovia. The palace was the headquarters of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo. Included in the palace is the Museo Nueva Segovia with a collection of paintings, manuscripts and religious articles accumulated through the centuries.
Burgos National Museum. - the museum building is the ancestral house of Padre Jose Burgos. One of the museum’s best feature are the paintings of Esteban Villanueva depicting the 1807 Basi Vigan Bell TowerRevolt. The dioramas of local historical events is worth the visit. Included in the collections are antiques, manuscripts and other priceless items. There is a Tourist Information Center in Vigan to help visitors. And if you want to take a break, there are beaches to go to just a few minutes away from the town.
A good time to visit Vigan is during the town fiesta. Celebrated for one whole week -concluding on January 25 to commemorate the conversion of the apostle, St. Paul. The fiesta is marked by street parades, beauty contest and variety shows on the town plaza.
During the Holy Week, local and foreign tourist come to Vigan to see the religious processions of the antique and life sized statues mounted on elaborately designed carrozas that are paraded on the streets of Vigan.
To get to Vigan City from Manila, you can get a bus or take a plane to Laoag City and take a bus ride to Vigan. There are many places to stay. Many ancestral houses have been turned into quaint hotels and inns. There are also many bars and restaurants offering a variety of local and international dishes.
Buses that ply Manila & Vigan daily (approx. 7 hours trip):
Philippine Rabbit Bus Lines: Rizal Ave., Manila & EDSA, Q.C. Tel # 734-9838, 734-9836
Dominion Bus Line: New York St., Cubao, Q.C. Tel # 731-4180, 741-4146
Partas Bus Company: Aurora Blvd., Q.C. Tel. # 725-7303, 724-9820
Maria de Leon Transit: Dapitan cor. Gelinos Sts., Sampaloc, Manila Tel # 731-4907
PAL (Philippine Airlines) flies to Laoag City 3 times a week. Laoag, 80 kilometers away from Vigan takes about 1½ hours to commute."
Palawan Adventures
"Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm.
It is located in Barangay Iwahig, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, 35 minutes by tricycle from the city proper. One can take a jeepney along Valencia Street or may hire a tricycle/private vehicle going to the penal farm. It is located 16 kilometers south of Puerto Princesa.
The colony encompasses a 37-hectare scenic farm planted with coconut palm trees, rice, and other crops cultivated by the prisoners and their families. The prison has about 4,000 population and many inmates live with their families in so-called rehabilitation areas. Within the farm is Balsahan River, known for its cascading waters coming from the nearby mountain. Iwahig is more like a modern farm, rather than a prison, where prisoners toil their farms unguarded and are allowed to earn an income by working in the many shops which turn out various handicrafts, most popular of which are the handcarved items made of mahogany wood. The farm is definitely a good shopping stop for tourists.
Vista Luz Picnic Grounds.
It is located in Circulation Road, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, 5-7 minutes by tricycle from the city proper via Circulation Road. It is two kilometers away from the airport.
It offers facilities like cottages and picnic huts. Locals come on weekends for swimming and picnicking. The biggest hut called the pavilion is good for groups up to 100 persons. Two cottages, each with two beds, electric fan, and private bathroom are available for an overnight stay.
Nasin-aw White Beach and Silica Beach.
It is located in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, 5-7 minutes by tricycle from the city proper. The beach is two and a half kilometers away from the airport.
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