Saturday, April 10, 2010

Philippines, Pearl of the Orient Seas



Etravel Pilipinas is your guide to your vacation getaway to the top tourist destination here in the Philippines. You will find comprehensive travel information and Philippine travel guide about traveling to the Philippines, first class hotel and accommodation, adventure travel Philippines, natural and man-made tourist attraction, breathtaking natural landscapes, magnificent diving sites and world-class beach resorts with lots of fun, excitement and total relaxation.

Philippines is the Land of Freedom and Beauty. It is a country, which has its own origin, history and culture. Its identity has been rooted from the heritage of its forefathers. Each and every Filipino citizen should value the legacy of a glorious past, the greatness of its race and the character and traits that are distinctly Filipino.


Boracay White Sand Beach ResortTravel to Philippines and discover the wonders of the country. Come across the beautiful world-class white sand beach resorts like Boracay and Panglao. Visit the well-known and enchanting diving spots in Palawan, Bohol, Cebu, Puerto Galera, Subic and Coron Bay. Uncover the captivating view of the volcanoes in Taal, Albay and Negros and mountains like Baguio where travel adventure seekers want to go. Explore the hundreds of scenic tourist destinations that Philippines can offer. Philippines is one of the destinations in Asia that foreigners want to spend their vacation holidays. Because of the tropical settings that the Island Philippines is located, people around the world want to experience the enchanting and romantic moment living in the paradise. Etravel Pilipinas will give you an overview to the Philippine travel directions, travel guide, travel accommodations and travel tips in the Philippines.


Bacolod Massara FestivalWitness the amazing Philippine festivals and events that Filipinos are celebrating. Philippines celebrate hundreds of colorful and electrifying festivals all year round. Every City and Town celebrates different festivals or fiesta in different dates and different culture and tradition. There are many festivals in the Philippines. Join us in celebrating the Philippine festivals and experience these exciting events that captivates the unifying power of the festive spirit. Sinulog in Cebu, Masskara in Bacolod, Ati-atihan in Kalibo and Moriones in Marinduque are one of those popular festivals in the Philippines. Street dancing is one the most popular event in the festival in which is also the highlight of the festivities. Different group competes in each other wearing colorful costumes with those electrifying dance moves.


Travel to Philippines and experience the richness of culture, history and heritage. These are among the tourist attractions that the country is offering to business and leisure tourist travelers. Tourist will experience the cultural, historical and architectural heritage when they travel around the country in their business trips or leisure adventure travel to the Philippines. Philippine culture that are handed down in generations from our ancestors. Historic events from Pre-Spanish period up to the present. Architectural designs of buildings and houses that are build since the Spanish Period that visitors want to catch a glimpsed of its beautiful structure.


Philippines people are known for its hospitality. Tourists and guest are always welcome in their homes. Filipino people are very friendly, well-educated accommodating and fun-loving. Tourist can communicate well because most of the people in the Philippine understands and can communicate in English.


The Philippines offers everything you could ever desire on a paradise getaway from strolling along sandy white beaches to fascinating scuba diving adventures. A timeshare in this region will give you the opportunity to explore the enchanting mountains and tropical warm waters year after year. Timeshares are the perfect way to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore the rich legacy of the Philippines islands. Let the luxurious and exotic appointments unfold around you as you breathe in the aroma of sampaguita, the national flower of this beautiful country. Book Philippines timeshares right now and by your next vacation you can be strolling the white sandy beaches of Boracay Island or diving Puerto Galera. Timeshare resales can be your key to a truly scrumptious vacation.

Friday, March 26, 2010

CARAMOAN, CAMARINES SUR Philippines



"The name Caramoan has been officially adapted since 1619, the year it was founded by a zealous missionary, the venerable Spanish friar Francisco De La Cruz Y Oropesa. This 60-year old priest penetrated the thick virgin forest of the Caramoan Peninsula and found a small settlement in a place called Baluarte. Later on, this settlement was turned over to the administration of the Holy Bishopric in 1696.

The small town of Caramoan was then located at the tip of Caramoan Peninsula, a rugged place of land extending into the waters of the Maqueda Channel on the North and East and Lagonoy Gulf on the South.

It was determined that the first name given to this place was Guta de Leche by the Dutch traders who operated a gold mine in Lahuy Island and frequented the area to trade with the natives, prior to the arrival of the Spaniards. The name was perhaps derived from the milkdrop stalagmites found among the rocks of Guta Port. But upon the arrival of the Spaniards, the place came to be called "Carahan" for the sea turtle, which was at that time to be found in great number along the shores of the Peninsula.

Caramoan is one of the thirty-five municipalities of the Province of Camarines Sur and is situated at the heart of the Caramoan Peninsula at the southernmost tip of Luzon. It occupies the lower eastern portion of the Province of Camarines Sur. It is bounded on the north by the town of Garchitorena and the Pacific Ocean; on the northeast by the island province of Catanduanes; on the south by Lagonoy Gulf; on the east by the Maqueda Channel and on the west by the municipality of Presentacion.

The municipality is situated between east longitude 124o59" and 13o46" north latitude. It covers approximately 27,741 square kilometers with approximately 71 kilometers of irregular coastline surrounded by the vast ocean, bay, seas and swamps. It is approximately 501 kilometers away from Metro Manila; 95 kilometers from the municipality of Pili, where the seat of the provincial government and the Pili Domestic Airport are located; and 110 kilometers away from Naga City, the heart of Bicol."

Friday, February 26, 2010

Coron Island Palawan Philippines




Coron is a quiet town located southeast of the island of Busuanga and opposite the island of Coron (northern tip of Palawan). It serves as a gateway to the Calamianes Group of Islands where you'll find unspoiled islands and islets with white sand beaches, crystal clear blue waters, exotic marine life, and limestone cliffs teeming with swallows and palawan red hornbills.

Coron Island, Palawan Coron Island is actually a gigantic limestone reef. It is a land mass separate and should not be confused with the town of Coron. A law was passed in 1997 declaring the whole island as ancestral domain territory of the Tagbanuas, the native people of Palawan.

Kayangan Lake is just one of several magnificent hidden lakes you'll find within the island of Coron. A 10 to 15 minute hike via a carved path on a tropical rainforest will bring you to one of the most enchanting and cleanest lake in the Philippines. The water is very clear and calm, a perfect combination of warm seawater and cold mountain springs which reduces its salinity. Kayangan Lake

Kayangan Lake Kayangan Lake

Baracuda Kayangan Lake

Diving is the main tourism activity in Coron where twelve World War II Japanese shipwrecks can be found. Most of the wrecks are auxiliary ships sunk by American fighter planes on September 24, 1944. Irako Maru, a refrigeration ship located at the mouth of Coron Bay is probably the best wreck dive in the Philippines. It is quite intact and with good visibility one can enjoy viewing the big groupers, yellow fin and schools of tuna, and sea turtles living around this wreck.

Getting There

Airlines that serves the Manila to Busuanga route are PAL Express, Cebu Pacific, Sea Air, and Zest Air. Average travel time is 40 minutes.

From Busuanga airport, you may travel on a scheduled van trip (P150/person) or rent an exclusive van or minibus (P1,200.00 to P1,500.00) to Coron Town which takes about 35 to 40 minutes. However, this will drop significantly after the road cement project is finished by the end of 2009.

Monday, February 22, 2010

Tourist Attractions in Vigan Islands Philippines




"Vigan Houses: Vigan City Islands PhilippinesThe Vigan Houses
The Vigan ancestral houses were built by Chinese taipans who made fortunes out of indigo dye, abel fabrics, gold, tobacco and other export items. The massive brick and plaster houses with red tiled roofs and imposing doorways, grand staircases, broad narra floorboards and piedra china, sliding capiz windows and ventanillas and cool azotea reflect the artistic and technological craftsmanship of the 18th and 19th century native artisans who developed an architectural style adapted to the earthquake-prone tropics.

Calle Crisologo: Vigan City Islands PhilippinesCalle Crisologo
Further south of the Cathedral, one finds the stretch of Calle Mena Crisologo lined with ancestral. These houses, built by the Biguenos of Chinese ancestry engaged in trade, barter and manufacture o findigo dye, abel (woven) fabric, gold, tobacco and other goods. Being the only surviving colonial city in the country, Vigan has more than 180 ancestral houses and historical landmarks tightly strung along the narrow streets of the old Mestizo District, popularly known then as Kasanglayan (Chinese quarters).

St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral
The cathedral was build by the Augustinians 1790-1800 in distinctive "Earthquake Baroque" architecture. It has three naives , twelve altars and a choir loft. Chinese influence is evident in its baptistry altar, China-forged brass communion handrails, a pair of Fu Dogs and moldings on the facade. Most of the original church interior features and artifacts are still in place. The octagonal church belfry is located 15 meters south of the cathedral.

St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral: Vigan City Islands Philippines

Just recently, its museum Museo San Pablo was opened to public which showcases ecclesiastical artifacts and other religious crafts of the past."

Friday, February 19, 2010

Encenada Beach Resort




"Encenada Beach Resort offers its guests the full benefits of Puerto Galera's stunning natural beauty. Its, dazzling, white sand beach is located in a sheltered cove among lush tropical gardens & rainforest. One of the Philippines oldest marine sanctuaries, Puerto Galera is breathtakingly beautiful both above & below its calm, clear waters. Below, it is a kaleidoscope of colorful corals & marine life, & above, a spectacular vista against cloud-shrouded mountains, a haven for divers, yachtsmen, fisherman & nature lovers alike.

One of the Philippines oldest marine sanctuaries, Puerto Galera is breathtakingly beautiful both above and below its calm, clear waters, Below, its Kaleidoscope of colourful corals and marine life, and above, a spectacular vista set against cloud-shrouded mountains, a haven for divers, yachtsmen, fisherman and nature lovers alike.

Puerto is a Resort Town located in the north-eastern shoreline of Oriental Mindoro. lt is the eastern half of the island of Mindoro, an island which is the third largest in the Philippine archipelago. The island is south-west of Metro Manila. Puerto Galera itself is about seventy (70) statute miles away from Metro Manila, and can either be reached by seacraft straight from Manila, or by land transportation from Manila to Batangas City (100 kms), and by ferryboat onwards to Puerto Galera. The land travel takes between one and a half to two hours ride depending on the traffic situation, while the connecting boat ride takes either forty minutes or one and a half hours depending on the ferryboat taken."

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Honda Bay Palawan




"Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan is a group of islands that is popular for swimming, snorkeling, and diving destinations. Island-hopping in the Bay has also become a common thing for tourists.

The jump-off point is located in Barangay Sta. Lourdes Tagbanua about 12 kilometers east of the town proper where pump boats could be hired to reach the different islands. Some islands require entrance fees; some are privately owned and require permission before you can visit. “It’s quite a long boat ride to reach there but it is also an adventure of a lifetime and an unforgettable one”, Sheryl muses.

Such event was what happened to Sheryl So and her friends when they went to the Honda Bay in Palawan. Sheryl is currently an officer for the Planning Department employed at Philippine Airlines. Being an employee of an airline gives her the benefit of flying for free in domestic or international destinations. Sheryl is 29 years old, single, and finished industrial engineering at one of the prestigious universities in the Philippines.

She found Palawan to be a typical province. Very organized and spotlessly clean. There are a lot of natural tourist spots to go to, and less commercial establishments.

“I went to Puerto Princesa with friends and I love their beaches. We went to Honda Bay for snorkeling and it’s so amazing how much fishes, corals, among others you can see even if you are nearby the shore. I wonder what more you can see if you go further to the deeper parts of the sea.”

Sheryl enjoyed the blissful scenery of Puerto Princesa along with her friends and office mates. As soon as they arrived, they went island hopping immediately. First stop is the Pandan Island. They stayed in a cottage like many visitors used. Several huts and cottages were located there. And just like any other tropical paradise we’ve seen in the movies, they take turns quenching their thirsts with a coconut juice in their hand and proceeded to go on snorkeling around the island.

The breath taking view of the place above water is equally stunning and amazing as it was under the water, and every visitor should experience seeing the scenery both ways. “Palawan is such a clean place, it’s a refreshing sight especially if you came from a crowded busy place like Makati in Manila”

After a few hours, Sheryl and her friends moved to the Snake Island, which was a two-kilometer sandbar shaped like a snake. It was enjoyable for them to walk around up to the end of the sandbar. Food feasting on Snake Island was very sumptuous for the visitors. After diving, it is always best to splurge into a hearty meal and walking barefoot along the powdery sand.

The last stop they went to was the Starfish Island. This island is known for its fine white sand and clear water that teems with starfish.

The island had a sandbar surrounding the lagoon. They very much enjoyed the warm and peaceful water without the strong waves. Other islands there in Honda include Cannon (Cowrie) Island, Bat Island, Lu-Li Island, Meara Marina, and Senorita Island. The Senorita Island is the breeding site of the lapu-lapu fish.

Since she likes the beach more than anyone else, she considers going back to Puerto Princesa, and would like to visit other places as well like Coron, El Nido, Calauit, among others. “The most unforgettable part of my Palawan experience would be snorkeling and swimming in the Palawan waters — fine sand, clear waters and well preserved coral reefs.”

Compared with another tourist spot here in the Philippines where she went spelunking with her friends in Sagada, she liked very much the caves in the underground river in Palawan. The cave had interesting rock formations, stalactites, bats, and aside from that, the cave has access to a river which leads to the famous falls in Puerto Princesa. You may explore the underground river by boat, while in the caves of Sagada, you need to do lots of walking and climbing.

Sheryl believes that Puerto Princesa is above average place compared to other tourist destinations in the Philippines. "It is a site for relaxation and adventure where you can be one with nature. The place really grows on you, it really stayed in your senses for quite a long time until you come back again to renew the bonding you have with mother nature."

Friday, February 5, 2010

Camiguin Island Philippines





The Island of Camiguin is a perfect package and a real ecological tourism destination that it has been identified by the Department of Tourism as one of the top 25 tourist destinations in the Philippines. It is an island which has so many tourist attractions ranging from natural, historic and scientific to religious which are only minutes from each other. In the island you will find hot and cold springs, waterfalls, white sandy beaches, lagoons, white islets, breathtaking rain forests, a walkway to the top of an old volcano, ruins of an ancient church, coral reefs and many other interesting sights and landmarks.

Many say that the main attraction of Camiguin is the sheer concentration of its natural wonders and its residents who are simple, genuinely friendly and hospitable. It is a dream island where travelers can simply revel in the marvels of nature without too many artificial distractions. One cannot really help fall in love with the island that when visitors leave, they usually would feel that the hardest thing that one has to endure in coming to Camiguin is when the day comes to leave. The following are some of the many beautiful landmarks and tourist attractions the Island of Camiguin has to offer:

White Island - also known as Medan Island, it is one of the most popular sites to visit in Camiguin. This small inhabited white sand bar, with picturesque Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Mt. Vulcan as its backdrop, is located two kilometers across from the beaches of Agohay and Yumbing. The island, with a shape that differs depending on the tide, is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and shell collecting.



There are motorized bancas at the CAVES Resort or at the PARAS Resort which may be hired to ferry visitors to the island. When there are just a few visitors and you don't intend to stay too long at White Island, you can arrange for the bancas to wait for you before ferrying you back. Most of these bancas can accommodate as much as six to eight passengers. The best time to see White Island is early in the morning when the sun is just rising above the horizon. Since there are no trees, vegetation, and structures on the island, there is no available cover against the heat of the sun. It is advisable to bring along whatever you have to provide shelter from the hot sun such as an umbrella, headgear, sunglasses, sun-tan lotion, as well as food and water since there are no vendors around.

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Argao’s Bugasok Falls





"Hidden far deep in Argao’s mountain barangay called Conalum is the town’s majestic Bugasok Falls. A trip to this southern town in the province of Cebu would not be complete without a visit to the upland river that flows down a rocky cliff to create this rumbling water form in the heart of Argao.

The less difficult or more enjoyable way of getting to Bugasok Falls would be to trek through the riverside starting from the bridge built over the river in the mainland.

But since we were pressed for time, we chose to ride the infamous or dangerous “habal-habal,” which is what they call a motorcycle for hire (popular in mountain areas not reached by other means of transport) that can seat as many as five people in a single ride.

In our case, though, we paid two habal-habal drivers to bring the three of us to the farming village of Cansuje, from where it was only a 15-minute walk through a winding, oftentimes uphill footpath to the river that feeds the falls. Bugasok falls

However, reaching the river is only one part of the effort. Since we were on the upper side of the river, the waterfall was a little farther off and hidden from our view by a cliff on one side and the mountain on the other.

We, therefore, had to cross the river, taking time to choose an area where the current was its tamest. We then went up some part of the mountain and came down on the other side to get to the falls.

Crossing the river and going over some part of the mountain were by no means easy tasks. But the breathtaking view of Bugasok Falls was reward enough for our difficult and tedious excursion.

How to get there

To get the most of your trip to Argao, I recommend devoting some time to following the trail upriver to get to the falls. This way, I’m told, is an enchanted walk along “forested cliffs and solid rock boulders” where you get to see unique plants and birds.

I don’t know if this is still existing today but there is supposedly a regular tour to Bugasok Falls organized by the Argao local government through its tourism council. Check details of that tour at the official website of the Argao tourism council.

If you want the faster way, then hire a motorcycle for hire. In our case, we paid the drivers of two motorcycles-for-hire 800 pesos each to take us around Argao for the whole day.

The things you should include in your whole day itinerary: Bugasok Falls, view deck in the mountain (if you don’t mind some rough uphill ride) where you are afforded a view of the surrounding countryside, tablea factory (a local industry that involves roasting, grinding, and forming cacao beans into dark, bitter chocolate), weaving industry, torta making, old houses (some over 50 years old), and the walled pueblo (Spanish settlement with some of the original structures existing up to this day). Articles on these attractions coming soon here."

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines






"A 1st class municipality of the province of Batangas, Nasugbu is a short distance (about 70 kms) from the province's capital Batangas City. The municipality is accessible by tourists coming from Metro Manila, roughly 100 kilometers in distance, via Tagaytay City.

Nasugbu is located on the eastern coast of Batangas adjacent to mountains with rolling terrain and gentle slopes providing the inhabitants with rich fields which are very conducive to agriculture life. Two of the main industries of the town is farming and aquaculture. When one visits the town, fields of rice, corn, coconuts and vegetables dot the countryside.

The town has a rustic feel yet rich in historic relevance; as seen in the romanesque facade of one town church. The design is reminiscent of the time when Spanish law ruled the land. Nasugbu has something to be proud of in terms of vacation spots; some of the beaches lining Nasugbu's coastline rival those of the best beaches in the Philippines and the town's best travel destinations are found in or around these beaches including exquisite dive sites.

Here are some of these to name a few.

Coral Garden

One of the most popular divesite in Nasugbu, the site is speckled with groups of corals in varied forms and types. Sting rays are commonly seen in this area.

Pink Wall

The site is aptly named as it is abundant with pink-colored corals. Complementing the beauty of the divesite is a selection of exotic fishes in varied colors.

Awash South

As with all other divesites in the area, it splattered with corals of different shapes and sizes scattered in all directions. Fishes are in abundance and make the area alive with a spectacle of colors.

Fuego Point

This point is a horseshoe-shaped lagoon with a variety of soft corals and sponge lining every area on its bottom. It is becoming a top destination for divers because of its magnificient canyon walls, caverns and different kinds of fishing adorning the bottom of the lagoon."

Cabugao Beach Resort




"Cabugao Beach Resort the small boracay of the north
Posted in CAbugao by Ed Pudol on April 5, 2008

We spend our holly week to this beach resort which located at Pug-os, Cabugao , Ilocos Sur. Cabugao is second to the last municipality of Ilocos Sur in the north before you reach Ilocos Norter.

If you’re looking for a solemn place to unwind then this resort is the best place to scape the noise and pollution of the city. I like the place , cabugao beach resort have nice clean air conditioned rooms with private bath room and toilet. The only awkward to their rooms is that there is no TV, but that’s fine with me as I have my own laptop with me where I can watch DVD movies.

I enjoy the white sand in the beach and swimming at the beach with a wave. Waves are not that big good enough to massage your body.

If you don’t like or you’re afraid to swim to the beach then you can use the resort swimming pool. The pool is situated infront of the beach. You can do the warm up first at the swimming pool before going to swim at the beach.

Also if you bring your own car no problem with parking, they have wide space for car parking of their customer.

I guess it’s better if I will show you the some pictures I have taken while staying in the resort for you to see how the beach resort look like."

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Capiz, Philippines




"There are several beautiful places in Capiz, Philippines that you can visit for you to have your usual nature tripping and relaxation far from the noisy and polluted places of the city. I have pictures posted here which were taken by my friend using his 5megapixel digital camera. When you see these pictures you will really appreciate the goodness of God. The place is really blessed by God with different 'wow' sceneries that only in Capiz can be seen. I'm planning to take more pictures to other places in Capiz so the world can see the blessed beauty of the province of Capiz, Philippines"

Tagaytay, Philippines




"Tagaytay City, about 60 kms south of Manila, the Philippine capital is one of the prime tourist spots in the Philippines. Up to the late 1990s, people came mainly for Tagaytay’s year-round cool climate and Taal Volcano, which, surrounded by the blue waters of Taal Lake and framed by lush mountains is quite a breathtaking vision.

There were no other sites at that time except for Picnic Grove - a picnic and horseback riding site, Palace in the Sky - abandoned mansion of deposed Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos and Halfway – a mini-zoo. Dining was confined to Mushroom Burger, Taal Vista Hotel (the only hotel in the area at that time) and hole in the wall restos offering “bulalo” (boiled beef shank with bone marrow).

In 2000 under a younger administration, Tagaytay’s tourism got a boost by welcoming new establishments and franchises.

Foremost is the exclusive Highlands in Tagaytay’s northern part where golf, cable cars and world-class dining and accommodation can be enjoyed by availing of membership starting at P600, 000.00. It is an ideal site for weddings and conventions. Less expensive alternatives are Tagaytay Convention Center, Royale Tagaytay and Phinma. Mid-priced hotels like Bed & Breakfast, Days, Hotel Dominique and Royal Parc are scattered in the area. There are plenty of budget rooms and picnic huts for less than a thousand pesos.

Transportation is never a problem as busses ply the Manila-Tagaytay route 24 hours.

For fine dining there’s Antonio’s (seats must be reserved at least a month before) located farther south on the way to Batangas City, Carlos Restorante which offers Spanish cuisine and Aurelio’s, famed for its steaks. Those who prefer native Philippine dishes like “sinigang” and “kare-kare” (variations of beef and pork preparations) have a wider selection of reasonably priced restaurants in the main road - Dencio’s, LZM, RSM, Leslie’s, and Josephine’s. In the same strip, a horseback riding facility is available in Viewsite’s ranch-inspired surroundings. Beside it is Taalena, where diners get to be serenaded by a string quartet. Fast food chains like Jollibee, McDonalds and Chowking coffee shops, pizza parlors and delicacy stores also abound.

The health conscious will enjoy Nurture Spa and Sonia’s Garden where message therapy is offered side by side with organic food.

Commerce is thriving with the presence of the country’s premiere banks, telecom companies, beauty salons and branches of government agencies. Students and employees from nearby towns flock here for the retreat houses tucked in the more inconspicuous areas of the city.

At night, the main streets are lined with multi-colored lamps. Live bands perform daily in CafĂ© Lupe, G-point, Chandler’s, Casino Filipino, among other bars and cafes.

Yet despite its modernization, Tagaytay City has managed to preserve its picturesque countryside ambiance. In fact, all establishments are prevented to erect anything that will obstruct the views. It’s a must-see spot that has a bit of something for everybody."

Monday, January 11, 2010

Katibawasan Falls, Philippines



"Katibawasan Falls is a waterfalls located five kilometers southeast of Mambajao at the foot of Mt. Timpoong in the island of Camiguin. It measures about 250 feet which cascades to a rock pool surrounded by ground orchids, wild ferns, trees and boulders. Ice cold water provides an ideal summer splash to bathers and picnickers. The falls tumble down into a green pool, ideal for a refreshing swim. Giant ferns decorate the surrounding land, carpeting for space with huge trees and dropping vines. Rock picnic tables, seats and cookout facilities are available for use. Considered as one of the treasured gifts nature has bestowed Camiguin, the falls is maintained by the province and visitors are expected to pay a minimal entrance fee."

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Canibad Beach Resort, Philippines



"Canibad Beach Resort (at Aundanao, Samal Island) is located at the other side of Samal Island facing Davao Oriental a 20km drive from Babak proper. Another place to relax and unwind at Samal Island.

Canibad is actually a sea by the foot of the mountains. So when you get there, you will see the vastness of the sea on top of a hill while coconut trees and mountains greet you welcome to Canibad! You’ll have to go down a very steep trail before reaching the white sand and the cool blue waters of the beach. The coastline is just about two kilometers with very fine white sand, pebbles and some big pile of rocks on its edges.

It is one of the beach resorts that is less developed, so tourists and guests should not expect to see class restaurants and air-conditioned rooms. For those who want to stay overnight at the beach, it is advisable to bring a tent with you, but cottages are also available for around P200 pesos per night. Since there is no restaurants in the area, cooking your own food in designated areas is a good idea.

The people on Canibad seemed joyous as they gathered around their bonfires, drinking, eating, cajoling, and doing other forms of merrymaking by the beach or in their tents. After all, in that paradise that has escaped the usual crowd at the more accessible beaches onthe other side of Samal Island, one couldn’t help but feel free and far away, in a place that affords everyone more private space."

Saturday, January 9, 2010

Some Choice Tourist Destinations in the Philippines

"The Philippines is an archipelago located just above the equator in Southeastern Asia. Nestled between the Philippine and South China Seas, it is lovingly called the Pearl of the Orient by its natives. For indeed, traveling to it is like finding a unique pearl in a vast ocean, discovering not only beautiful spots but also warm and hospitable inhabitants.

It enjoys a warm, humid climate all year round and for this, tourists usually find haven in its countless beaches. Foremost is the world-famous island resort of Boracay, with its powdery white sands, crystalline-blue sea and spectacular sunsets. Tourist accommodations are abundant, ranging from the luxurious and exclusive to the more budget-friendly. One can take his pick on varied amenities available for swimming, diving, sailing, sport fishing, or just sunbathing.

Another popular tourist destination is the island of Palawan, known for its pristine beaches and friendly people. Exotic flowers and animals abound in this quaint locale. It is here where the Tubbataha Reef is found, a marine sanctuary park recognized by the World Heritage List and a source of constant joy for diving enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. For a touch of adventure, one can explore caves in the underground river of Saint Paul’s National Park or take a safari ride in Calauit Island to see unusual wildlife.

Bohol is considered as one of the loveliest islands in the country. There is no lack for white beaches with world-class resorts here and its nearby isles. There are also numerous freshwater springs where one can relax and enjoy some relaxing moments in. Another world-famous attraction are the Chocolate Hills, a group of hilly mounds that turn brown during summer, resembling a popular chocolate treat. Trips are also available to visit several of the old churches of Bohol. Here, one can be acquainted with century-old relics serving as testimonies to the country’s past under the Spanish rule.

For tourists and travelers seeking to enjoy the sea and the beach to the fullest, Siargao Island is an ideal spot. Lying in the southeastern part of the country, it is becoming increasingly popular because of its surfing waves and enthusiasts flock to this island for the Siargao Surfing Cup held every year. Other activities include sunbathing, deep sea fishing, diving and kayaking.

For those seeking the ultimate paradise, Samal Island is the perfect destination. Aside from white sand beaches, this island also boasts of mangroves, coral reefs and interesting rock formations. One can wake up and go to sleep to perfect sunrise and sunsets in this quaint locale situated at the southern part of the country.

Of course, for the more urban-seeking tourists, there is Subic Bay, formerly a military base that now boasts of the sea, commercial developments and virgin forests in one exciting package. It caters to crowds with wide-ranging interests, from bungee-jumping and sport fishing to the more sedate golf courses and arcade center."

Friday, January 8, 2010

BACUIT ARCHIPELAGO, PALAWAN




"Palawan has always been a favorite getaway to the adventure-hungry traveler, for the province offers not only heavenly beaches, but also possesses breathtaking vistas and exciting biodiversity. One of these places is the Bacuit Archipelago in El Nido, inarguably one of the best beach landscapes in the world. Also awaiting the audacious traveler are features such as Miniloc Island's Big Lagoon, the most photographed sight in Palawan; and Matinloc Island's Secret Beach, only accessible by swimming through a keyhole slot."

Saturday, January 2, 2010

Mag-aso Falls, Bohol Philippines



"The Mag-aso Falls is located in the barrio of Mag-aso in the town of Antequera, Bohol, Philippines. It is about 20 kilometers from Tagbilaran City, roughly a 30 minutes ride away. The falls is a major attraction of the town together with karst caves such as the Buhong Tiawan, Hagakgak, Inambacan, and Antequera.

Antequera is an inland town situated in the western part of Bohol and composed of 21 barangays. With good roads, the town is bounded in the west by the municipality of Calape & Loon, the municipality of San Isidro in the northeast, and the municipality of Maribojoc in the southwest; in the southeast by the municipality of Cortes and in the east by the municipality of Balilihan.

Aside from being blessed with rolling & rugged terrains interspersed with rivers, streams and brooks, the town is also known as the basket capital of Bohol. Sundays, Antequera’s market day, is the day when baskets of different sizes and shapes are displayed in the local market and traders from out of town, hailing from Cebu and far-off Manila come to buy their products for export to other countries throughout the world.
Overview

Mag-aso Falls is one of the main attractions of Bohol but rarely included in day tour itineraries since it is relatively out of the way. Situated inland, it does not lie in the pathway towards Loboc town, the Loboc river cruise, tarsier viewing, and on towards Bilar’s mahogany man-made forest and the Chocolate Hills, Bohol’s main attraction.

Travelers who have come to know about the twin falls in advance often request tour operators to include it in their itinerary but usually dole out an additional fee to cover gas consumption. Yet if you have contacts in Bohol and can get a private ride, visiting the falls will not be a problem.

The town may be so out of the way, yet travelers who make the trip find it worthwhile. Intermittent verdant rice fields with hilly backdrops are stunning to look at aside from the picturesque ancestral homes that dot the way.

For the adventuresome spirits who want to visit the falls in their own pace and time, and likewise avoiding the high prices of tour agencies, the area where the falls is located is very accessible. Buses and jeepneys ply the route to the town from Tagbilaran City. Disembarking in the town proper, tricycles and motorcycles are available to bring one to the falls."