Leisure, travel, and various past times, these are the things that you will never run out of when
you are in the Philippines. Being one of the “jewels” in Asia, you are sure to get have a fun time
here whether its having a vacation in a well known hotel and resort like the Alegre Beach Resort
and Spa or dropping by one of the major malls in the metro manila area like SM Megamall
or Robinsons Galleria. Hey, you can even do it on a tight budget because of all the coupons and
discounts that are out there. Its part and parcel of the Filipino mindset when it comes to taking your
mind off of things, just relax with your friends or loved ones while having a good swim or when
strolling down the walkways of a high end mall, but sometimes people would also opt for a
classic way to spend the time.

Even with the outset of modern ways of leisure and other past times, there are venues located
in Manila that you can drop by to spend some time to relax and get surprising exhibits as well,
Manila is known for various zoos as well! Even during the late 90’s a lot of families visit zoos
and it has never gone out of style because is really more exciting to see a live giraffe or lion
rather than see animals in a movie house!

If you like to visit zoos for a change then you must know your travel route and what zoo to
visit, you should also get a good travel schedule planned so that you can avoid the hassle of
overcrowded zoo visits and unexpected traffic in the metro. Here are some of the notable zoos
that will surely excite you and your companions with woundrous sights to behold.

The Avilon Zoological Park

This zoo is one of the most modern zoos to date, located in the picturesque valley of San Isidro,
Rizal Philippines; this 7.5 hectare zoo has 11 departments specializing in the animal kingdom
from herpetology to animal nutrition. You can be able to book scheduled tours and exhibits of
various fauna from tropical birds and even animals endemic in the Philippines like the mouse
deer. Book a scheduled trip so that you can get to experience an educational interaction with
animals in the Avilon Zoo.

(Also see: Heritage Park Zoo, Micke Grove Zoo)

The Manila Zoo

If there’s one place that completes the history of Manila then its sure to be the Manila Zoo,
the place was opened to the public way back July 1959 and serves as one of the foremost
educational institutions where the public can learn about the Philippine’s fauna and flora. The
usual sights that are known are the bird life which shows parrots, eagles, doves, and pigeons
then there are also the elephant exhibit and tigers which are majestic animals that are always
a crowd pleaser. You can just drop by Adriatico St. in Manila during weekday and weekend
afternoons for the best time for scheduled tours and exhibits.

(Also see: Gulf Breeze Zoo, Chehaw Wild Animal Park)

Malabon Zoo

This is also one of the pioneer zoos which opened in the late 1960s which paved the way for
showing Philippine exotic animals that are still shown even today. The Malabon Zoo features
more spacious animal enclosures that enable animals to walk more freely in the environment
and have a habitat that gives a more “wildlife” vibe. The exhibits that you should visit are
the Philippine brown deer, Philippine freshwate crocodile, leopard cat, Philippine Tiger,
Orangutans, and other aquatic and bird fauna. Just drive towards Gov. Pascual Street in Barrio
Potrero, Malabon, Metro Manila to visit Malabon Zoo.

(Also see: Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, Niabi Zoo)

Birds International

For those who love birds and are even interested in adopting several flying and chirping
companions to take care at home then you should visit Birds International located in
Commonwealth Quezon City. There are a vareity of exotic and rare birds that they have on
exhibit like Amazonian parrots, macaws, hornbills, cockatoos, and even small parrots. Birds
International also holds family friendly activities like Parrot coloring competition for kids
and even streetshows involving staff and parrots showing off tricks and games. If you fancy
adopting a bird then you can drop by their pet shop and take a look at what bird to take home
and get to pick a cage as well.

(Also see: Potawatomi Zoo, Promised Land Zoo)

Cebu  is the fastest growing metropolis outside of Metro Manila. Located in the middle of Visayas, the island is a commercial hub that contains the country’s second international airport, which is the most important transport in the Visayas and Mindanao. Cebu is also a center of the shipping industry, with 80% of the country’s shipping industry based in this “  Queen City.”

Although known popularly as a cosmopolitan arena for business and industry. Cebu is also known to offer travelers a great escape from city life. The province us replete with white-sand beaches that never fail to attract tourist and locals alike. Neighboring  islands are a popular destination for beach-lovers, and the nearby island of Mactan is a favorite among people who want to experience the sun and surf without going too far away from the city, and Cebu has a host of lookout points and bars that offer a fantastic view.

SOME FACTS ABOUT CEBU

Cebu was discovered by Ferdinand Magellan  who, having sailed into the harbor of Mactan, was slain by Lapu – Lapu, the chieftain of Mactan island. Years later, the Spanish Christianity in the Philippines. What once was a fishing village and busy trading port in 1521 has evolved into a highly urbanized metropolitan center which now serves as a focal point of growth and development southern Philippines real estate. Up until  today, Cebu is still referred to as the “Queen City of the South.”

Three million people reside in the province of Cebu. The main language is Cebuano, although a fairly good number of locals can speak conversational English as well as Filipino, Cebuanos can be quite friendly and hospitable, but most are known to be very economical in their spending.

The weather in Cebu is best from December to May, when it isn’t wet or too hot. The coolest period is from Decemberto February, the hottest from March until May.

CEBU ATTRACTIONS

Magellan’s Cross is Cebu’s most popular tourist destination. Being the cradle of Christianity in the country, the kiosk behind the Sto. Nino Basilica in downtown Cebu enshrines the famed cross that made believers of the Filipinos. It is a historical landmark that serves as a reminder of the power and pervasiveness of the Catholic Church in the Philippines.

Still in downtown Cebu is Fort San Pedro, another historical landmark that showcases Spanish memorabilia left over from the Spanish colonial period. It was once a bulwark of Spain’s power in Cebu. Today it serves as a vestige of past colonial command.

Because the Spaniards were the most enduring colonizers in Philippines history, it is their influence that is most apparent in society. Casa Gorordo is a testament to Spanish cultural influence, being a museum of artifacts of old that have carried over into centuries of use and adoption. This house turned-museum gives a glimpse of life during heavy Spanish influence.

People are quickly realizing that Cebu’s best beaches are actually three .hours away from Cebu City and are found in Bantayan and Malapascua islanads. Both beachfront still carry a virgin quality that appears to many a traveler, and so in recent years they have ironically been subjected to progress and development. Located north of Cebu, these neighboring paradise getaways have but a few resorts just yet, which nonetheless attract a bevy of beachcombers and vacationers.
SPECIAL ATTRACTION

~Cebu’s Nightlife

The measure of cosmopolitan capitalism should be Starbucks, something Cebu acquired in recent years to ride the wave of booming commercialism. Its first branch just opened outside of the Ayala Entertainment Center. Annexed to the Ayala Mall, the Entertainment Center is an area full of bars, restaurants and other late night joints where the partying begins as soon as dinner ends.

Crossroads in Banilad offers the same mix of dinner and dancing, but with a different flavor. The bars there carry s steadier groove, and the coffee shops are more appealing to the younger crowd because of the social leverage they serve, rather  than the coffee.

The Village in Lahug has a courtyard in the middle of a block surrounded by bars, restaurants and coffee shops. Bands perform regularly in the courtyard, while other establishments attract customers with breezy outdoor set-ups. The latest to join in the Cebu nightlife directory is the Banilad Town Center, a commercial complex that includes a gym boutiques in its lineup of bars and restaurants.

One of the better options Cebu’s nightlife offers is the backdrop of a breathtaking nightscape amidst a round of drinks. Drinking stops, hangouts and lookout points dot the elevated setting of Busay Hills, making it a great place to chill and catch the breeze under a brilliant nightsky while appreciating the expense of Cebu’s horizon.

Not all of Cebu’s nighttime joints are congregated together, in fact some of the better ones are in a place all their own somewhere in the heart of the city. Most of them can be spotted alongside city streets-just look for bright lights and crowd.

~Cebu Shopping

Filipinos have a penchant for enormous shopping malls, and Cebu certainly isn’t exempt from this surfeit of merchandising madness. SM City is one of the may gigantic shopping malls of the SM line in the country. Ayala Center is another  representation of yet another of the Philippines’ mall magnate’s metropolitan fixtures. More known for its department stores are the Gaisano branches, with its Metro Ayala branch being the most popular and convenient source of inexpensive and imported goods.

Shopping for local products and delicacies will take the earnest traveler to the unglamorous marketplace of Cebu, Carbon market is located in downtown Cebu, and it consists of a number of street vendors hawking everything from used clothes to vegetables, It’s a cheap place to buy the famed Cebu mangoes and the well reputed Cebu guitar. Tabu-an is a separate area that sells anything and everything dried under the sun. dried salted fish , popularly known as danggi, is cheapest in Tabu-an market.

~Cebu Diving

Cebu is renowned for its exemptional dive spots. Many hotel guests of Mactan resorts dive in and nearby marine sanctuary of Gilutungan and Nalusuan. A few hours away from the city, there is Moalbal Reef –famous for its colorful coral reefs and cave diving. To the north of Cebu is Malapascua Island, a favorite among more adventurous divers because of the roaming thresher sharks.

~Cebu Water Sports

Since Cebu is an island, there are all sorts of water sports and activities offered in the different beaches and resorts. One can go kayaking, water-skiing , parasailing, banana-boating, snorkeling or just plain swimming in the beach. The seabreeze around Mactan makes windsurfing a popular sport among tourists.

~Cebu Island Hopping

Smaller islands surround the main island of Cebu, and some of them are definitely worth visiting. Taking a banca (outrigger) from Mactan island is deal as it makes visiting the neighboring islands rock islands, mangroves and other marine treasures can be seen while riding the waves along the coastline. Island hopping is particularly fun with food and drinks inside the boat, and one has the luxury of swimming wherever and whenever and the water is clear and enticing.

~Adventure Trips hiking, rappelling, spelunking and all those adventurous activities can be arranged with the right contacts. The hotel concierge should be able to help out in arranging for a licensed or freelance guide to wonders. The south of Cebu has caves, mountains, springs and waterfalls that are exciting to explor and discover.

CEBU HOTELS AND ACCOMODATIONS

Cebu offers a variety of world-class hotels and resorts, all strategically located around the province. In the city, there is the massive Waterfront Hotel and the Marriot Hotel, both conveniently located in the city’s commercial center. In Mactan island, just half an hour’s drive from Cebu City, there is the crowd favorite Shangri-la Mactan Island Resort, the tropical paradise Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, and the newly inaugurated Hilton Cebu and Spa. In the farther reaches of Cebu are more well-kept vacation hideaways. Alegre Resort is two hours north from the city, while Pulchra is located an hour and a half south.

It us of course possible to visit Cebu without going all out with accommodation expenses. There are a number of mid-range hotels located around the city, as well as pension houses that go for an even cheaper price. Many of them are located along busy city streets, and shouldn’t be hard to find since there is a myriad of them strewn about the metropolis.
DINING

Visitors love Cebu for its succulent food at great prices. While some grilled eateries and barbeque stands are institutions in themselves, the epicures of this island getaway are not unfamiliar with international gourmet cuisine. Still, Cebu is best remembered for its abundance of outdoor grills that tease the plate with fumes of lechon (roasted pig) and grilled seafood that’s sure to find its way to any wandering food-lover’s senses.

A.S. Fortuna is a long road that has such restaurants on every corner. The food  choices range from barbequed chicken to grilled squid to local staples such as puso (hanging rice) and ngohiong (deep-fried pork and vegetable roll). Lechon and Lechon manok (roasted chicken) outlets are located just about anywhere. Puso is rice wrapped in banana leaves, and is a specialty that is largely known as a Cebuano novelty.

For upscale choices, there are restaurants that specialize in cross-cultural or mixed-cuisine dining. The hotels carry top-of –the-line international cuisine, while the mall and entertainment centers offer a good variety of food and flavor. Ayala Mall host all sorts of restaurants, from fast-food Filipino to Continental dining. Crossroads has an assortment of Asian fare, while The Village carries European cooking. Dimsum is also popular in Cebu City, with the Ding Qua Qua Chain at the forefront of Chinese culinary tastes.

Cebuanos take their food seriously, and so there are all sorts of eateries situated in every possible locale, from the tiny streets of small villages to the sidewalks of main throughfares. The best way to find a satisfying meal is to ask a local. More often than not, Cebuanos are familiar with their food.

HOW TO GET TO CEBU

Cebu is 365 miles south of Manila. To get there, one can either take the plane or boat. Local airlines fly there several times daily. Traveling by air takes one hour. Taking the boat is generally less expensive, but the trip takes about 20 hours aboard a local cruise liner or slow boat.

The popular domestic airlines are Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Air Philippines. International airlines also fly to and from the Mactan International Airport.

Superferry and Sulpicio Lines are the bigger slow boats that sail to Cebu almost every day. Arrival is at the port of Cebu in the North Reclamation Area of the city. For trips outside Cebu, fast crafts are available for journeys to neighboring islands and provinces.

Davao probably derives its name from the ancient Bagobo word “daba-daba” or fire, which the tribe used for its rituals. The Tagabua tribe, on the other hand, called the river bisecting the region “Daba” and the Guiangan tribe, “Davoh.” Situated in the typhoon-free southern area of the Philippines, Davao is a city of diverse sights, sounds and tastes. It is a melting pot of both immigrant and highland cultures that blend in a colorful, exciting tapestry of ethnic heritage and modern lifestyles.

Davao is the most progressive city in Mindanao and  is the center of economic activity in Southern Philippines. It is now a fast emerging gateway to the evolving East ASEAN Growth Area including Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Malaysia – a re-emergence of trade cooperation  by the four countries during the 17th century.

Davao is one of those places where urban relaxation is possible it has wide, well-lit streets, beautiful buildings, great resorts, the friendliest people and the freshest fruits, vegetables and the day’s catch from the sea. While you find malls, a five-star hotel and nightlife, you can still feel an almost pastoral ambience due to the wildflowers, long blades of grass, beaches and the towering Mt. Apo.

Indeed, Davao is touted as one of the most beautiful cities in Asia. From an airplane at night, it looks like an inverted universe with its billion dancing lights shining from wide, well-it structures, streets and establishments.

DAVAO TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

~Davao Museum

Located at the Insular Village in Lanang, it is a repository of tribal art, costumes, jewelry, handicrafts and others. Paintings, sculptures, and ceramics are also exhibited.

~Davao Eden Nature Park & Resort

A mountain paradise where one can commune with nature. This place has numerous recreational activities for visitors and a restaurant located in the mountains. Guests can stay in mountain cabins and camping sites.

~Davao Samal Island

Nesteld within the cradle of Davao and the sea is the island garden of Samal Island housed the Aguinaldo Pearl Farm where cultured pearls were created using the latest Japanese technology. In its place now is the exclusive Pearl Farm Resort with a row of beautifully craft  nipa huts, some of which are two to three stories high. The Samal houses are of stilts so you can easily go down from the house and snorkel in the crystal clear waters with a variety of marine life. Another attraction is the Mandaya Tribe. Usually two women and kids from this tribe spin the cloth that made them famous.

~Malipanao Island

Here you get a spectacular sunset touching the waters and white sand with the red and gold of the sun. you can kayak to and from here, and it has seven spacious villas that are three storeys high, built and designed with an old Spanish era theme.

~T’boli Weaving Center

It is located at the Waterfront Hotel. Products famous here are woven materials like the yakan cloths and those woven by the Mandaya tribe and other T’boli handicrafts like traditional wedding hats, bamboo paper clips, and table mats and coasters made from abaca fabric.

~Dabaw Etnika

It is located inside the Insular Hotel. Mandaya women weave their cloths which are not only made into clothes but also into table decorations, bags, beadwork and jewelry, belts and other accessories.

~Philippine Eagle Camp

This well-maintained camp is a sanctuary for the Philippine Eagle and other animals native to the Philippines.

~Puentespina Orchid Garden

You will want to have your own variety of flowers, especially the orchids, cattleya, ylang-ylang and waling-waling ( Vanda Sanderiana for the purebred). Puentespina gives pamphlets on how to grow orchids, and is open Monday to Saturday.

If your purchase is above P500, you’ll get a free box. However, if you didn’t buy that much and your orchids are to  travel by air or ferry, shell out a little extra money to put these in a box. The airport charges per box and you’ll receive a permit from the DENR.

~Lola Abon’s Durian Factory and Mindanao Industrial Confectionery

These are factories south of Davao City where you can watch durian fruits being processed into jams, candies, and other processed products.
~Lon Wa Temple

It is a Chinese temple only four kms. From the airport where you will see the Buddha with the Thousand Hands inside this golden marbled pavilion. You may also opt to have your fortune read by the monks from the paper you pick from the incense sticks.

~Shrine of the Infant Jesus of Prague

Found at Matina Heights, Davao City. Even non-believers can enjoy a quite stroll on its serene and expansive grounds.

~Talikud Island

Near Samal Island, this has beautiful beaches where you can go snorkeling/diving. Caves with resident snakes and bats ca also be found here.

~Tagum

Various places of interest can be seen in Tagum.

At the Dalisay Village, there is a citrus plantation, with exotic orchids and other plants, a Japanese tea house, and moder sports facilities

The Davao Penal Colony was once a World War II concentration camp for war prisoners. Now, it has turned into a plantation for rubber, cacao and abaca, and a botanical garden and zoo, which are maintained by the inmates. Visitors can also buy a variety of wood carvings and stay in the guesthouses. At Carmen, you can swim at the famed White Sand Beach.

Northwest of Tagum, you can go to Tibi-tibi in Kapalong where there are hanging bridges and waterfalls, and native tribes of the Matigsalug, Talaingod and and Langilan. Lake Ampawid in Asuncion has great marble quarries and banana plantations.

Southeast of Tagum are waterfalls, the Mainit Hot Spring National Park near Mabini and the Tagnanan Beach with its white sand. Brgy. Mabini has the Maputi Hot Springs, the Cawacawa Waterfalls and the darkly mysterious Masara Mines.

The Nabunturan area is where the endangered Philippine Crocodile is said to swim.

DAVAO SPECIAL INTERESTS

~Festivals Araw ng Dabaw

Araw ng Dabaw is celebrated every March 16 featuring a food street party, dance spectacles and other special events. The most awaited though is the search for “Mutya ng Dabaw.”

~Kadayawan sa Dabaw

Kadayawan sa Dabaw is celebrated every third week of August. This week-long festival coincides with the harvest of fruits, such as the durian, lazones, mangosteen and rambutan. It is also celebrated with “Indak-Indak sa Kadalan,” or street dancing plus a floral float parade. Other special events are scheduled during the festival.

DAVAO ACCOMODATIONS

There are number of first class and standard hotels in the Marco Polo-Davao.

The Waterfront Insular Hotel has a jettyport that takes visitors to the pearl Farm. Travel inns are also located within the city.

It is better to call the hotel offices in Manila to check rates.

DAVAO DINING

Because it’s bordered on the east side by the sea, fresh fish can be found anywhere in Davao, especially the versatile tuna.

Fresh fruits such as the famous durian, suha as the pomelo, lanzones, mangosteen, banana and rambutan are abundant in the province. The Bankerohan Public Market. Anda – Rizal and Mandrazo Fruit Quality.

Restaurants that serve Filipino, Chinese and European cuisines can also be found here.

HOW TO GET TO DAVAO

There are regular flights to Davao from different key cities all over the Philippines –  Manila, Cebu, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro and Iloilo.

From Davao one can also directly fly to Singapore. Travel time is one and half hour. Check with Philippines Airlines, Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific for schedules.

By ship, WG&A and Sulpicio Lines go to Davao regularly. Check scheduled with their offices located at the Port Area.

By land, take the bus. Philtranco has scheduled trips to Davao daily. Travel time is approximately 48 hours.

HOW TO GET AROUND DAVAO

Jeepneys and tricycles are available in the city proper-Motorcycles for hire, called habal-habal, are a way of exploring the islands.

The capital of the Philippines is Manila. It sets the archipelago’s rhythm and is a pulsating hub that blends the Oriental with the Occidental, the quaint with the modern, the religious with the profane, and the mundane with the extraordinary.

Manila has been witness to the Philippines’ history and growth. It was plagued with bombs during the Second World War, and has housed 14 presidents. Its beauty has withstood the test of time

At the heart of Manila’s history is Intramuros. It features the grand Manila Cathedral with its detailed stone carvings and stained glass mosaics; Fort Santiago, the site of torture chamber and dungeons; and a favorite wedding spot, the San Agustin Church.

Greater Manila, made up of 11 cities and five towns, us where the country’s most prestigious business addresses and trendiest leisure establishments are found. Fashionable hotels, restaurants, discos, music bars, boutique and specialty shops converge around the sleek Ayala and Ortigas Centers.

Other major cities include Quezon City, also an entertainment hub as well as a government center; Marikina City, the shoe center of the Philippines; Paranaque City, known for its dry goods and seafood markets and restaurants; and Las Pinas City, which houses the world’s only bamboo organ at St. Joseph’s Parish Church.

Calabarzon, compromised of the five provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batanggas, Rizal and Quezon, is only a few hours away from Manila. The area boasts of great destinations and leisure activities for day trips or overnight gateways as well as export processing centers.

MANILA TOURIST  ATTRACTIONS

~Manila National Museum

Located at the former Senate building, it houses many artworks by renowned Filipino artists, including Juan Luna’ Spoliarium.

~Museum of the Filipino People

Located almost beside the National Museum, it houses artifacts from different regions of the Philippines displaying the diverse and colorful culture this archipelago has to offer.

~Intramuros

This walled city steeped in Old Spanish history is where several Spanish churches and other landmarks are located, such as the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church with its 4,500-pipe organ, and the parks such as the Puerta Real Gardens and the Baluarte de San Diego.

~Rizal Park (Luneta)

Here is where you can see the monument of National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal. A few meters away is a Light and Sound Show, held at the exact place where he was executed. It is also a great place to stroll ad enjoy picnics with your family.

~CCP Complex

Houses the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) that has a main theater (Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo), little theater (Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino) and experimental theater (Tangahalang Huseng Batute), the Philippine International Convention Center, Folk Arts Theater (Tanghalang Francisco Balagtas) and the Manilav Film Center. This cradle of arts and culture is located along Roxas Boulevard. Ballets, symposiums, concerts and plays are staged here.

~Coconut Palace Complex

Come marvel at how the different parts of the “tree of life”

The coconut tree are put to use in this by the sea.

~Museo Pambata (Children’s Museum)

Museo Pambata is the first hands-on interactive children’s museum in the Philippines. It has an exciting learning center with six theme areas, namely: Kalikasan (Enviroment), Maynila Noon (Old Manila), Tuklas (Science), Paglaki ko (Carrer Option), Katawan Ko (Body Works) and Bata sa Mundo (Children in the Global Village). It also has a reading resource center and children’s playground. It is also a venue for children’s activities such as storytelling, puppet shows and various workshops.

~Greenhills

It is an establishment bargain loves’ paradise with rows upon rows of stands selling almost everything, from jewelry and clothes to accessories and the latest electronic gadgets.

~Quiapo Church

Home of the Black  Nazarene whose feast is celebrated every January 9, and attended by millions of devotees who have been touched by the Nazarene’s miracles. The Black Nazarene is an image of Christ brought by Augustinians in the 17th century, and is also a haven for bargains.

~Las Pinas Bamboo Organ

Located is St. Joseph Church in Las Pinas, the bamboo organ gets full attention from musicians from all over the world during its annual festival.

~Malacanang Palace

The presidential home and seat of the government’s executive branch.

~Manila Zoo

Check out one of the most historic zoo’s in Asia. Make sure you use Zoo Discount Coupons.

~Baywalk

Found along Roxas Boulevard, it is a perfect haven for lovers and families alike. It has a stream of al fresco restaurants serving fresh seafood and other Filipino cuisine. It is best to go here in the afternoon, just in time to see the spectacular sunset mirrored on the Manila Bay.

~Malate

Famous for its night life, where almost all bars, restaurants and clubs are located.

~University Belt

A hub of learning institutes like Far Eastern University, University of the East, Centro Escolar University. Mapua University, University of the East and San Beda College makes up the Unversity Belt along Recto Avenue in Manila.

~Manila’s Chinatown

Located in the Binondo district, Chinatown symbolizes the long history of Chinese presence in the Philippines pre-dating the arrival of the Spaniards. The Chinese have especially in reatail trade and their culture, which have been absorbed into Philippine life.

~Chinese Cemetery

Members of the Filipino-Chinese community have mausoleums three stories high, complete with amenities like living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens and even mailboxes.

~Araneta Coliseum

Located in Cubao, Quezon City, it is the biggest covered dome in Asia. Beauty Pageants, concerts and the games of the Philippine Basketball Association and University Athletics Association of the Philippines, to name a few, are held here.

~Tagaytay

Only a few hour’s drive from Manila is the refreshing wisp of a city that is Tagaytay. Located in Cavite, perched atop a ridge, Tagaytay offers the most splendid views of Taal Volcano – the world’s smallest.

~Corregidor

Aptly called “The Rock,” Corregidor lies at the mouth of Manila Bay. This tiny island was the scene of much fighting between the Filipino-American forces and the Japanese during World War II. Today, it is a hauntingly historic tourist attraction.

~Laguna hot springs

The area of Laguna around Los Banos trades heavily on the health properties of its hot springs, which bubble from the lower slopes of Mount Makiling.

~Mount Makiling

The dormant volcano of Mount Makiling is identifiable by its shape – like a reclined woman whose spirit is said to protect the place.

~Pagsanjan

Francis Ford Coppola chose Pagsanjan Falls, 80 kilometers southeast of Manila, as the location for the final scenes of apocalypse now. Today, tourists come here to shoot the rapids, especially during the rainy season when they are most thrilling.

MANILA SPECIAL INTERESTS

~Festivals

Feast of the Black Nazarene – January 9

Sto. Nino Fiesta of Tondo – January 15; A procession of a hundred Sto. Nino images participated in by the people of Tondo. Street dancing is the highlight of the celebration.

Araw ng Maynila – June 24; the Manila Film Festival is usually held during this day.

La Naval de Manila – every December

MANILA HOTELS AND ACCOMODATIONS

(check our listings)

MANILA FOOD AND DINING

Metro Manila has various restaurants, cafes and food stalls offering a wide range of dishes.

HOW TO GET TO MANILA

International flights to Manila are available from different key cities around the globe.

HOW TO GET AROUND

Public utility vehicles such as buses, jeepneys, tricycles and cabs are available for use.

Baguio City in Northern Luzon, known as the summer capital of the Philippines is a popular destination particularly during the months of March, April, and May for both local and foreign tourists because of its cold climate. Also known as, “The Flower City of the North” it is a great venue for various outdoor activities. Come Christmas time, Baguio is also a preferred vacation spot.

Located some 250 kilometers north of Manila, it is nestled 5,000 feet above sea level of the Cordillera Mountain Range, the highest metropolis in the Philippines. In the heart of Benguet Province, it benefits from having political autonomy, being a character city since 1909. With an area of 49 square kilometers enclosed in a perimeter of 30.6 kilometers, it has 20 administrative districts where its 129 barangays are distributed.

Baguio before being discovered by Americans a century ago, was known as the “Rancheria”. Cattle and horses us3d to flock the area during dry seasons, but most of the time it was marshland with a shallow lake where the locals hunted for ducks and snipes.

The Americans saw Baguio as a place to build a future metropolis. A water source was found, pine trees were everywhere and grass covered the area. They immediately decided to make Baguio an admirable site for the future summer capital and health resort of the Philippines.

Today, Baguio is a melting pot of cultures. The diversity of indigenous ethno-linguistic groups enriches the socio-cultural scene. The Ibalois are considered the original settlers and together with other Cordillera groups such as the Bontocs, Kalingas, Ifugaos and Kankanais, comprise about 10 percent of the total population.

Other ethnic groups from as far as Mindanao also settled in the area. Local visual artists also gather in the city of pines for it is a comfortable space to hone their talents together with their contemporaries.

Baguio City is also popular for its vegetable and strawberry produce. It is also an ideal place for golfers and those who love to trek. Simultaneously this promotes environmental awareness and education for both the young and the young at heart. It is a mountain paradise with a cornucopia  of attractions that will surely entice any tourist to visit more than once.

BAGUIO TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

~Session Road

At the heart of downtown Baguio is Session Road. This incline cuts through a row of business establishments which includes restaurants, groceries, drugstores, bookstores and other specialty shops. Marvel at quaint tribal memorabilia while Igorot sidewalk vendors convince you to purchase unique love potions and herbal cures. Nightlife converge to wine and dine until the wee hours of the morning.

~Tam-Awan Village

It is about two kilometers northwest of the town center. It is a replica of an Igorot Village that was built on the side of a hill. It is possible to stay overnight in these original Ifugao Houses, the brainchild of the Chanum foundation, a group of artists who are dedicated nurturing the native culture in the Cordilleras. There are demonstrations of handicraft skills like weaving, wood carving and rice production.

~Central Market

The life vein of Baguio courses within and throughout he central market. No trip is complete without a visit to its showcase of fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers, preserves, handicraft, silver, bras, jewelry and even surplus army goods.

~Camp John Hay

Formerly a rest and recreation station of U.S. military troop, this facility was turned over to the Philippine government on July 1, 1991. The 535 hectare haven boast of a world class 18-hole golf course, wooded hiking areas, a skating rink, bowling alleys, tennis courts and a mini-Golf course. Camp John hay also has cottages, which are now open to the public.

~Mansion House

This imposing and majestic Baguio mansion housed a long line of Philippine presidents and American governors-general. Its ornate iron gate is often open to curios visitors.

~Easter Weaving Room

Episcopalian missionaries have played an important part in educating the native Igorot. Visit the Easter Weaving Room and admire tattooed tribeswomen as they create the most ornate weaves from the indigenous back strap looms and other more conventional looms.

BAGUIO SPECIAL INTERESTS

BAGUIO FESTIVAL AND EVENTS

~Panagbenga (February)

Every year, Baguio celebrates the Flower Festival or Panagbenga. It is a major tourism ebent in the city, drawing more local and foreign tourist with an array of floats lavishly decorated with flowers. There are floral street choreographed dancing to the tune of the panagbenga hymn performed by the flower-clad participants. The biggest Baguio Festival likewise features garden shows, exhibit, lectures, floral arrangement com-petitions, market encounter, and fireworks  display.

~Baguio Ecumenical Week (March)

Focuses on Baguio as a spiritual center. The fist commemoration initiated by the religious sector of he non-government organizations started in March 1991 with the theme “Baguio, a journey to spiritual renewal”.

~Baguio Foundation Day (September 1)

Commemorates the anniversary of Baguio’s becoming a chartered city in 1909. Art exhibits, parades, programs, cultural show and sister-city programs are scheduled.

~Baguio Arts Festival (November to December)

This is an annual event stated in November 1989 sponsored by the Baguio Arts Guild, the Department of Tourism and the Cultural Center of the Philippines. This envisioned Baguio to be the permanent venue for the festival. The features of the events are ethnic and visual arts, which include photography, film, video, sculpture and art installations.

~Impakabsat (November)

A trade and tourism fair showcasing the products and services of the cordilleras.

~Planting Season

The Ifugao plant rice according to the following calendar:

In the second half of December, they begin to sow the seed. From the beginning of February to the middle of March, they transplant the first seedlings. From the middle of April until the middle of June, they weed the fields. In July, the harvest takes place. From the beginning of August until the middle of December they work on improvements to the rice terraces and prepare the fields for the next seedling.

BAGUIO ACCOMMODATIONS

Pension Houses and Inns offer for as low as 1,000 for 4 persons.

Standard Rooms as low as P500 are also within the city’s vicinity. Prime hotels offer weekend and tourist packages and room rates approximately range from P1,200 to P6,000. Houses and rooms are also for rent, with rates depending on the location.

BAGUIO FOOD AND DINING

Session Roads is the main thoroughfare within the metropolis. Along this road are a number of coffee shops and fast food chains. Chinese restaurants, big and small eateries and specialty food stores line the streets. There is also a vegetarian restaurant located alongside Pilgrim’s Café  that many foreign tourists frequent.

HOW TO GET TO BAGUIO

One can travel by land or air. A local airline flies daily from Manila to Baguio I 40 minutes. Taking the bus will take around 5 to 7 hours depending on traffic and road condition. Flight arrival is at the Baguio Airport Road. If you take location of the bus terminal within the vicinity of Baguio.

There are four routes to Baguio. The Naguilian Road, which is an hour from La Union. Kennon Road, they popular zigzag road presenting a thrilling ride to the mountain city with glorious scenes along the way, is the shortest among entry points (only five hours from Manila). Light vehicles often take this route.

Or take the Palispis-Aspiras Highway, the most famous among travelers since it is the toll road taken by Baguio-Bound buses from Manila. It is a distinctly world class thoroughfare, boasting state of the rock sheds, a fly over, and anti-erosion structures. This is the same road where one can get a glimpse of the historic bust of former Pres. Ferdinand Marcos who envisioned the conception of the route to improve trade relations among the Montanosa and the Ilocos Region. Also, there is the Halsema Road that leads to the hinterlands of the Cordilleras.

HOW TO GET AROUND BAGUIO

Jeepneys and cabs are available.

Widely known as “The Last Frontier,” the archipelago of Palawan is a magnificent world that should be discovered slowly, feet wriggled into its pristine white sands, and its waters swam in with indulgence.

Palawan is the Country’s largest province, spanning 1.5 million hectares. Bounded by irregular coastlines of fine white sand, its interior thrives with lush virgin forests and incredible wildlife.

Palawan consists of about 1,769 islands: the Calamian Island group to the North, the Cuyo islands group to the northwest, and the Balabac-Bugsak group to the southwest. Scuba diving is spectacular because of its crystal clear blue-green waters teeming with marine life. Fall in love with the majestic hawksbill and green sea turtles, the delightful dugong or sea cows, and plenty of species of dolphins, whales, sharks and manta rays. Above water, there are many species unique to the place, like Palawan bear cat, Palawan mongoose, Palawan peacock pheasant, fish-eating Palawan eagle, king cobra, and many rare species of parrots and butterflies. Other delightful creature like the Calamian deer r the large Monitor liards also thrive here.

Lustrous pearls of every shape and size are plentiful in Palawan. And all over El Nido, Coron and Pabellones Island are swallows’ nests, costing up to US$3,000/kg,which are harvested as the main ingredient of the expensive Chinese delicacy Bird’s nest soup. Go ahead and book your trip early and take advantage of discount hotel coupons and special offers.

PALAWAN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Tubbbataha Reef

This is the Philippines’ first national marine park, and now a World Heritage Site protected by the UNESCO. The abundance of marine flora and fauna in this 33,200-hectare reef rivals that of most sites because of the wealth of unique species found only here. Mega fauna like Whales, whale, sharks, hammerhead sharks and manta rays can be seen during its peak seasons (April-June). Feast your eyes on the majestic Hawsbill and graceful Green Sea Turtles. You will need a live-in boat to explore the wonders of thus marine world. Located in the Sulu Sea, cradled between the Palawan and visayas islands. It takes 12 hours of calm sailing to reach Tubbataha from Palawan. But you will need an entry permit issued by the Tubbataha Management Office before you can enter the park.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean National River Park (St. Paul Underground River)

This is another of Palawan’s World Heritage Sites. It is the world’s longest underground river, located underneath St. Paul Mountain. A Stalagmite formation of a lion seems to guard the place. Visitors can travel underneath by means of a baca and marvel at the features above them on the mountain’s roof above them.

Honda Bay

Honda Bay is a host of beautiful islands like snake island (named because of the winding strip of sandbar), starfish island and Pandan Island.

Ulugan Bay

Go on a sightseeing spree: get to see mangrove farms at Bahile River and spectacular island with towering limestone cliff; travel by means of paraw (Filipino boat) and see the Kaluyo Falls; snorkel or dive to view the bay’s magnificent marine creatures; or go spelunking inside Ugong Rock, Which is dotted with dozens of amazing caves.

Ursula Island

A bird sanctuary

Lake Kayangan

It is said to be the cleanest lake in the Philippines.

Tigman

Aborlan’s famous beach with several resorts.

Malun-Ao Island

Mangrove forest and fish sanctuaries can be found here.

Sombrero Island

There’s a fishing village here where the fresh catch lands straight on your grilling plate

Mangit Cave

It has spectacular formations around its interior.

Tabuan (market day)

People from Aborlan do their market day on Sundays when vast produce like bamboo, rattan and batad handicrafts are up for sale.

Cabigaan

The indigenous people of Tagbanua reside here. In December, they have a thanksgiving ritual during the full moon, with the runsay (healing ritual) coinciding on the same day.

Busuanga Island

White beaches and clear blue skies.

Calauit Island

Here is a sanctuary for African wildlife like giraffes and zebras; visitors will ride a well-protected jeepney, which meanders through the park.

Coron Island

Mangroves and beautiful reefs are home to spectacular varieties of marine flora and fauna; view towering limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons.

Culion Island

The island has great attractions like rollicking mountains and hills, mangrove forests, and bays where dugongs (sea cows) munch sea grass all day.

Barcuit Bay

Found in El Nido, it has a collection of 45 islands each with its own secret lagoons and beaches, virgin forest, limestone cliff and caves.

Bulalacao Falls

Visitors will get to hike through rice paddies and dense forestation along mountain slopes to get to the falls, located in Barangay Pasadena. Get a professional tour guide who will guide you through the place. Visitors are usually not allowed here during the rainy seasons in August to October.

Calaan Beach

From the cottages situated here, get a full view of the most divine sunsets you’ve ever seen.

Cadlao Island

Cadlao Island is in Bacuit Bay. White sand beaches, lagoons, dense forest and mangroves abound here. Trekkers will enjoy nature trails throughout the island.

lagen Island

This place Is for those of the more expensive taste. Its resort offers luxurious facilities and services. Great snorkeling and kayaking.

Malapacao Island

There’s a secret lagoon here. To reach this beautiful and exotic place, moor your boat somewhere nearby, then swim through the gap between rocks.

Paglubagan or Shimizu Island

Just a few feet from shore are coral beds and varieties of marine life just waiting to be seen. Snorkeling is spectacular here.

Seven Commandos and Ipil Point Beaches

Ideal for water sports lovers.

Tapiutan Island

Great fine beach ideal for snorkelers. Through archways and fissures, swim with the great sea turtles, which are frequently seen gracefully swimming by.

Rasa Island

If you like cockatoos, this is the [place for you, where hundreds of the yellow-crowned birds fly ad perch. Other varities of birds are the Black-Naped Oriole, the Kilit-kilit or blue-headed racket tail and the white vintage shama.

Arena Island

Crystal clear water make for great snorkeling ad diving.

Tabon Cave

It is also known as the “Cradle of the Philippine Civilization” because of the discovery of the Tabon Man (Homo Sapiens species 22,000-24,000 years old) in limestone cliff clad Lipuun Point or Tabon Cave complex. Around here are several other island to choose from which are beautifully isolated.

Tumarbong Falls

Go through a forest trail that will lead you to the Tumarbong River. Following the river, you will be led to this awe-inspiring falls, which is the habitat for a variety of birds, and other flora and fauna.

Little Baguio Waterfall

Because of its cool atmosphere and inviting waters, this is a good place to take a dip and wash off the day’s worries.

New Agutaya Beach

The longest beach shore in the Philippines at 14 kilometers.

Lake Danao

A paradise-like group of islands with dense forst around a lake.

Malampaya Sound

It is part of the sea where a heavy concentrated of natural gas was discovered. Home to two species of dolphins: the Bottle nose and the Irrawady dolphins, as well as thousands of other marine species.

Pabellones Island

A group of three island with awesome limestone cliffs, on the sides of which are the main ingredient in the Chinese delicacy bird’s nest soup.

PALAWAN RESORT HOTELS AND ACCOMODATIONS

There are various hotels ad resorts with amenities and facilities. There are pension houses and tourist Inn with rates ranging from P500 to P1,000 a night, while superior hotels charge from P1,500 to P2,100 per night. Check to see how much.

PALAWAN FOOD AND DINING

Several restaurants serve a variety of dishes abound In the place.

HOW TO GET TO PALAWAN

Most airlines fly to selected points in Palawan like Puerto Princesa, Busuanga and Coron direct from Manila.

Shipping lines also ply the waters from Manila to some points in Palawan.

Within Palawan,there are jeepneys to take you throughout the province, but time is flexible in these parts. Check with the resorts, which usually provide transportation like boats and jeepneys to and from your point of arrival in between islands.

WHERE TO PLAY GOLF IN PALAWAN

If you want to play golf in Palawan, here’s the link to the Western Command Golf Club.