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.

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.

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."

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."

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"

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."

Camiguin Island Philippines

"Camiguin is an island well-endowed by Mother Nature with a wealth of volcanoes and numerous waterfalls, hot and cold springs, as well as a covey of outlying islands ringed by white-sand beaches.
In the heart of the island bubbles the flowing mineral pools of Ardent Hot Springs. Mists rise from the heated waters running down from the vents of Hibok-Hibok Volcano, the only active one among the seven on the island. Revel in the therapeutic waters. Picnic beneath the sheltering trees. Enjoy a game of darts or table tennis, comfortable dormitory - type rooms and duplex cottages are available for overnighters.

By day, take a side trip to some of Camiguin Island's attractions: the clear pools of Sto. Nino Cold Spring, the slender beauty of Katibawasan Falls, and the isolated white-sand bar called simply White Island. This is also the favorite jump-off point for trekkers and mountaineers in search of adventure in the slopes of Mt. Hibok-Hibok."

Nagtabon Beach, Palawan

"Nagtabon Beach is one of the popular tourist spot in Puerto Princesa City. It is a 45 minutes drive from the City Proper. It is located in Bacungan, one of the Southern Barangays in Puerto Princesa. The beach boast of a white sand beach with crystal clear waters. It has a breathtaking view of the South Cina Sea. Many tourist visits or frequents the place."

Baguio

"Rumored to be haunted, the former Diplomat Hotel stands on top of Dominican Hill, near the Lourdes Grotto here in Baguio City, Philippines. The hotel ceased its operations and was declared an off-limits zone when Tony Agpaoa, the owner/manager of the hotel died of a heart attack (link here).

The building was a rest house and seminary (Year 1911) before it was turned into a hotel.

During the 2nd World War, Dominican Hill was occupied by refugees fleeing from the Japanese Army Liberation Forces. Later the Japanese forces bombed the refugees out which resulted in extensive damages to the main structure and the surrounding area. Reconstruction work started in 1947 and was completed in about a year. (Source)

We were asked by the guard what our purpose was in going there. Then he let us sign the logbook. I think it’s best to go here early in the morning. I think the fog in the afternoon will contribute more to the ‘eerie feeling’ of the place.

I have to admit, after reading stories in the internet, I felt quite nervous when I entered the former hotel. Water was dropping from the ceiling. It is dilapidated and eeriely quiet.

I think it will be made into a first class hotel named “Baguio Heritage Hotel”.

This coming 2009, the former hotel will be made into museum showcasing photographs and documents of the city’s development over the years."

Mall of Asia Philippines

]"Aside from various tourist spots in the Philippines, there are also wonderful places where people enjoy staying whether in a usual day or a busy weekend. These places can be found in Manila. Not only parks can easily catch the people’s interests but also malls which can be spotted almost everywhere. One of the most famous business men in the Philippines and in other parts of the world, who is Henry Sy has made the right decision to increase his stocks in SM Malls when they planned to build a so called “Mall of Asia”, now knows to its abbreviation, MOA.
This could have been a typical mall widened. But what makes it extraordinary is its beautiful scenery of nature by its sea side. Added to this are various stores of clothes, shoes, bags, gadgets, food, etc. standing side by side.
MOA can also be easily recognized by its symbol; a big-sized steel globe placed at the center front of the mall. This globe emphasizes the mall’s diverse customer service. MOA is in fact third to the largest mall in the entire Asia.
There is also a sort of park inside it. Music bars and restaurants cannot be measured by its awesome creativity in service. There is also a convention center especially built at the side of the mall, for the purpose of reaching to all business sectors. A church is also found near the vicinity of Mall of Asia.
Some say that they don’t totally believe that people in the Philippines are poor because anywhere in the country, they can see a great number of people go for shopping.
Mall of Asia is truly one of those malls most visited. Foreigners can be seen in this place, and they admit that MOA is a lot different from other malls in and out of the country..."

Cave in Palawan Philippines

"El Nido has a black marble and limestone cliffs contain large caves with whimsical names like Cathedral Cave and Disco Cave because of their formation. Palawan's St. Paul National Park is Palawan's most popular attraction and covers 5,349 hectares of lush forest, dark mountains, caves and white beaches. In the deep recesses of the marble and limestone peaks of Mt. St. Paul flow the Underground River, said to be the longest in the world. It is easily navigable for at least four kilometers. The caves are filled with filigree-like sculptures formed by stalagmites and stalactites. Near its mouth is a beautiful lagoon with crystal-clear water that teems with fish. Also within the park is the Monkey Trail, a series of wooden paths that winds into the forest where monkeys, squirrels, lizards and some 60 species of birds are found.

Tabon Cave is situated on Lipuun Point, Quezon, Palawan . Tabon Cave is a 138-hectares, of rugged cliffs and deep slopes. Discovered by an American, the late Dr. Robert B. Fox and his team of Archaeologist from the National Museum in 1962. The discovery of the caves have yielded an important Archaeological find - Fossil human bones tentatively dated from 22,000 to 24,000 years ago. Excavations were done from 1962 to 1970. Of the 200 caves found in Lipuun Point only 29 caves were fully explored, including Tabon Cave, which were found to been used for habitation and / or burial sites by ancient people.

Tabon cave complex is a 30-minute banca ride from the town of Quezon, a Southern municipality of Palawan. It is 155 kilometers away from Puerto Princesa City."

Pagsanjan Falls Laguna Philippines

"This is the place to visit if your time in the Philippines is limited. Approaching the province is one of the most pleasant 1 hour drive in all of Luzon. It is characterized by historic towns, coconut plantations, lakeshores, sheltered valleys, waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanoes.

A popular place in this picturesque province is Pagsanjan where visitors flock for the thrilling experience of shooting the rapids. Just across the river from Pagsanjan is the town of Lumban, the celebrated embroidery capital of Luzon. The town of Los Banos , famous for its hot springs, is also where the International Rice Research Institure (IRRI) is located. Laguna's richly-forested hills and mountains provide material for the livelihood of the towns of Pakil and Paete which are woodcarvers' haven. The Philippines' biggest family theme park , Enchanted Kingdom, is in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

Laguna was one of the first eight provinces to rise in revolt. On August 31,1898 last Spanish garrison in Sta. Cruz surrendered to Filipino troops. Laguna expressed its full support to the First Philippine Republic declared in Malolos, Bulacan. During the Filipino-American War from 1899-1901, Laguna was a major battlefield between American and Filipino troops. Laguna's revolutionaries conducted one of the most successful guerrilla campaigns in the country but the struggle was eventually abandoned after the capture of President Emilio Aguinaldo in 1901. Civilian government was established in June 1902.

Hidden Valley SpringsDrive through a scenic countryside South of Manila to a unique place called Hidden Valley. It's bewitching vegetation flourishes in a 110-hectare crater 300 feet deep believed to have been formed by aviolent volcanic upheaval thousands of years ago.

A private resort that boasts of virgin forests, century old trees, giant ferns, wild orchids, and a hidden waterfall which is a sight to behold. Several natural spring pools are available for dipping to guarantee a well day spent. Meals include Buffet Lunch and Afternoon Snacks (Merienda)."