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.

Catanduanes island Philippines

"Catanduanes island is located in the easternmost part of the Bicol peninsula, separated from the mainland Bicol by the Maqueda Channel and the Lagonoy Gulf. It is composed of 11 municipalities, namely: Virac, San Andres, Caramoran, Pandan, Bato, Gigmoto, Baras, Panganiban, Bagamanoc, Viga, and San Miguel. There are 315 barangays all over the province and one Congressional district. It is indeed Bicol’s best-kept secret. It is the first land group of the Philippine archipelago to kiss the Pacific Ocean, making it directly open to the path of tropical cyclones, thus, the Catanduanes Island has been termed, “The Land of the Howling Winds.” The perfect time to visit Catanduanes is from the months of March to August when the weather turns dry. It is coolest and rainiest from October to the early part of January, hottest from March to May.

Catanduanes, which they also call, “An Eco-Adventure Paradise,” is for those who like nature at its best. The whole strip of this pearly island of the Pacific is almost untouched, unblemished, and unexplored. It has a long string of palm-fringed beaches and deep blue waters against a backdrop of luxuriant grassy mountains, and a totally laid-back rural charm and crowned with jewel-like island. It offers a totally laid-back rural attraction, a beautiful natural environment and plenty of easy action at a pace that is always relaxed. The local folks have always chosen a relaxed rural village life. They seem to be disinterested in rush development or any hurriedly rush into the modern world. As a result, the tourism industry is still in its early stages. But if you are interested in outdoor quest, an easy lifestyle among warm and friendly people and a general escape from the hysterical rate of urban life, Catanduanes is the ideal hideaway. It is a place where you could go back to simplicity and party in the absence of man-made anxieties and self-made entrapments; a total escape, they say.

Major Industries in Catanduanes Island includes abaca and lasa that flourished in the whole province. Native products made of abaca fiber like bags, lamps, utility boxes, handmade paper, among others, beautify the local souvenir shops and serve as local “pasalubong” and souvenirs. Lately, the original abaca fiber, commonly called “pinukpok,” created and woven by the locals of Baras, Catanduanes, has now found its position in the local and international fashion industry. This native fabric has shown its usefulness in the globally attractive designs and creations of the people in Catanduanes.

In terms of the language or dialect, Bicol is the native tongue but with various tones and distinctions, especially when one goes up to the northern towns like Pandan, Caramoran, and Panganiban. English and Tagalog are commonly spoken and understood.

You will be dazzled by the provinces' rugged and various landscapes, undiscovered caves, tamed white sand beaches and colorful marine life. You will never really expect such a wonderful gift of nature exists in this part of the country. Come, experience and enjoy the richness and wonders of nature in Catanduanes Island, Philippines"

Malapascua Island Philippines

"Malapascua Island with its white Bounty Beach, the turquoise blue water and numerous coconut palm trees comes close to the cliché of a tropical paradise. A lot of people travel here to enjoy sun, warm sea, yummy food and the friendly Philippine ambiance. Swimming and snorkeling are tremendous. Those looking for more action have the choice of a number of activities. Main attractions are island hopping and scuba diving. Shell collectors may find their paradise here. Once you have set foot on the island’s white beaches you will never stop thinking about this exotic gem.
MORE about Malapascua."

The name Malapascua means "Unfortunate Christmas" in english. there's nothing unfortunate if and when you experience the beauty that the white sand beaches that the island has to offer. It is situated only 8 km off the northeast tip of Cebu Island in the green, blue Visayan sea. Malapascua lies in the middle of the Philippines. It is an archipelago, which attracts the majority of the country's tourists.

nice view in malapascua island cebu philippines

It is relatively new to the international market, but already rates highly on the list of the world’s best beaches. This tiny island has a dazzlingly white bounty beach, which is one of the best in the Philippines. Time stands still as soon you step into this "Pacific Island Dream". Malapascua Island is popular to tourists who love to swim and snorkel. This has also become a major dive centre, well-known for the crowds of harvester sharks using the marine highway between Cebu and Leyte islands. Its extraordinary long white beach stretches around the south-east coast of the island facing Cebu, Leyte and Biliran.

The other side of the island has a more bird's-eye rocky coastline and is an elegant alternative for the ever-popular white beach. Malapascua also called "Logon" is located about 8 km. northeast of Cebu mainland and 25 km. west of Leyte.

beautiful sea view in malapascua island cebu philippines

Some of the tourist says, it is the new Boracay. Far from as crowded as the famous Boracay, yet simply accessible from Cebu's international airport, this little paradise has everything the sun-worshipper or adventurer seek out. Take a dive in the crystal clear ocean at the break of a World War II Japaneese ship, go snorkeling among the fishes at the many coral reefs surrounding the island, take a tour around the island, or just relax in the white sand and let the wind in the palm trees soothe you to sleep.
Driest climate is between Feruary-May, but okay for the rest of the year but with mostly short period of rain. Once you've gone here you'll always keep coming back.

red sunset sea view in maalapascua island cebu philippines

Malapascua is also long-familiar among the international dive society. Divers travel here to meet the friendly Thresher shark. These are big and up to 6 meters, but safe to humans. The Thresher lives in very deep waters but show up daily at Monad Shoal to be cleaned by cleaner fish. This is one of the few places in the world where we can have a glimpse of this splendid fish close-up at only 23 meters distance downward.

If you want to enjoy island hopping in malapascua, hiring a banca, that is a local outrigger boat, for a day will make some of the remoter islands around Malapascua easy to get to. Take a packed lunch, a lot of drinks and spend some hours on the water accompanied by dolphins with a bit of fortune.

captivating sunset view

One possible destination is Calanggaman Island, about 75 minutes by boat. With its perfect sandbank and abundant vegetation it gives the feeling of a virgin paradise. Snorkeling and swimming are tremendous. Besides some private rangers just a few dozen people live in Calanggaman, whose lives have not changed a lot during the past decades. You might be able to buy a fish for your lunch. Other possible dream islands are Carnasa or the more distant Maripipi with its huge and scenic volcano."

Legend Hotel Palawan

"The Legend Hotel Palawan is the second property in The Legend Hotel Palawan's thrust to develop hotel-in-garden-setting facilities in key growth or urban centers all over the country. Strategically located at the heart of Puerto Princesa's business district, dubbed as the city's newest and finest hotel, The Legend Hotel Palawan is just minutes away from the public market and from Mendoza Park where fresh seafood and native handicrafts can be found. The Legend Hotel Palawan features an elegant atrium at the lobby with matching scenic elevator, whilst all 100 guestrooms are well-appointed and internet, e-mail-ready guestrooms. It has already built a reputation for excellent service, described by one visiting executive as "...innate caring and warmth that made our stay at The Legend Hotel Palawan an unforgettable experience."

Barcelo Asturias Hotel

"The Barceló Asturias Hotel is conveniently situated in the city outskirts. It is located along the South National Highway, Tiniguiban Heights. Public transportation can easily be used to reach the hotel. A 55-minute plane ride or a 24-hour boat ride from Manila and a 10-minute car ride from the airport will bring you directly to the beautiful hotel. Just minutes away from the city's commercial districts, the hotel is ideally located for pure fun and relaxation. The Palawan Museum and the Palawan State University is just a short car ride away, and one can reach Honda Bay without any worries. Just a few more reasons why you should come and visit the Barceló Asturias Hotel."

Batanes Philippines

"The Batanes island group is the smallest province in the Philippines in terms of population and land area. The capital of Batanes, Basco is 280 kilometers north of Apari, Cagayan (the tip of main island of Luzon) while it is only 190 kilometers south of Taiwan. Batanes lies in the vast waters of the Pacific ocean where the Pacific meets China sea. An area that for generations is almost isolated from the rest of the Philippines. Batanes consist of 10 tiny islands and islets namely: Batan, Sabtang, Itbayat, Mavudis, Siayan, Diogo, North Island and Y'ami. Only the first three islands are inhabited.

The wind swept islands of Batanes are beautiful and enchanting and they are like no other in the Philippines. Since Batanes is separated from the country by miles of rough waters, the Ivatans (the name of the people of Batanes) have developed a different culture. Ivatans are honest, gentle and polite but brave and robust. They are proud of their their heritage and their land.

View overlooking the beach sea and mountainsThe landscape of Batanes is also distinct from other Philippine provinces - steep cliffs, rolling hills, deep canyons and boulder-lined shores - not unlike New Zealand in some way. But the most noticeable of all features of Batanes is the architecture of the houses - stone walled and thick thatched roofs to withstand the battering of typhoons.

Batanes BeachThe weather of Batanes is cool and windy. And it rains any month of the year. It has an almost temperate temperature from December to February where temperatures dip as low as 7 degrees centigrade. Although Batanes lies along the typhoon belt and gets hit by strong typhoons, it get it's fare share just like other provinces on the north. But in spite of the reputation of Batanes as a backward region, it now has modern conveniences like mobile phones (cell sites by Smart & Globe Telecoms), electricity and cable television but hardly any vehicles.

Batanes Stone House on Batan Island There are a lot of things to do and see in Batanes, swim on the many beaches, see the fishing villages, the churches and lighthouses, island hop, but best of all, it is a beautiful place to reflect and admire nature."

Tourist Spots in Davao - Philippines

"Mount Apo

The fabled Mount Apo gets a place in this list of top 5 tourist spots in Davao Philippines. Nature lovers and thrill-seekers that visit Davao make it a point to trek this mountain, which is the Philippines highest peak. A journey up Mount Apo involves crossing creeks, encountering waterfalls and ridges, and getting a very good view of Davaos landscape. Tourists who dare to hike the enchanting Mount Apo come face to face with breathtaking flora and fauna.
Philippine Eagle Center

Situated in Malagos, Baguio District, the Philippine Eagle Center conducts studies, takes care of injured eagles, and monitors captive-bred birds. It also houses other raptors, animal species and different kinds of plants. Bird lovers and plant enthusiasts are often thrilled to discover that the Philippine Eagle Center is within the Malagos Watershed. Visitors of all ages and from all walks of life will surely enjoy seeing the eagles up close and listening to the sounds they create. Touring around the Center is like traveling through a rainforest.
The Bat Sanctuary of Samal Island

A vacation in Davao is incomplete without a visit to the bat caves in Samal Island. The Bat Sanctuary of Samal Island is among the top 5 tourist spots in Davao Philippines because it offers tourists a one-of-a-kind experience as they observe bats in their natural habitat. Visitors can widen their understanding of these nocturnal creatures by joining youth activities and bat education programs in the Bat Sanctuary. Drop by this tourist spot and see how you can help promote bat conservation.

Davao Crocodile Park

The Davao Crocodile Park, is a frequently visited attraction. Pangil, the largest crocodile in the Philippines, lives in this park. A visit to this small zoo, which is both educational and entertaining, is an ideal activity for families. Learn more about the importance of environmental conservation by saying hello to the crocodiles, snakes, turtles, lizards, wild cats, monkeys, birds and butterflies living in this little zoo."

Tourist Spots in Davao - Philippines

"Mount Apo

The fabled Mount Apo gets a place in this list of top 5 tourist spots in Davao Philippines. Nature lovers and thrill-seekers that visit Davao make it a point to trek this mountain, which is the Philippines highest peak. A journey up Mount Apo involves crossing creeks, encountering waterfalls and ridges, and getting a very good view of Davaos landscape. Tourists who dare to hike the enchanting Mount Apo come face to face with breathtaking flora and fauna.
Philippine Eagle Center

Situated in Malagos, Baguio District, the Philippine Eagle Center conducts studies, takes care of injured eagles, and monitors captive-bred birds. It also houses other raptors, animal species and different kinds of plants. Bird lovers and plant enthusiasts are often thrilled to discover that the Philippine Eagle Center is within the Malagos Watershed. Visitors of all ages and from all walks of life will surely enjoy seeing the eagles up close and listening to the sounds they create. Touring around the Center is like traveling through a rainforest.
The Bat Sanctuary of Samal Island

A vacation in Davao is incomplete without a visit to the bat caves in Samal Island. The Bat Sanctuary of Samal Island is among the top 5 tourist spots in Davao Philippines because it offers tourists a one-of-a-kind experience as they observe bats in their natural habitat. Visitors can widen their understanding of these nocturnal creatures by joining youth activities and bat education programs in the Bat Sanctuary. Drop by this tourist spot and see how you can help promote bat conservation.

Davao Crocodile Park

The Davao Crocodile Park, is a frequently visited attraction. Pangil, the largest crocodile in the Philippines, lives in this park. A visit to this small zoo, which is both educational and entertaining, is an ideal activity for families. Learn more about the importance of environmental conservation by saying hello to the crocodiles, snakes, turtles, lizards, wild cats, monkeys, birds and butterflies living in this little zoo."

Iloilo Philippines

"Iloilo is the Philippines’ Heritage Haven of Panay. This is because it is popular for its gentry living as displayed by its majestic and colonial mansions and churches scattered throughout its beautiful landscape. This beautiful province is set in a graceful and refined repose between Batiano and Iloilo rivers forming the shape of a nose. Hence, it was given the name Iloilo from the word Ilong-Ilong, which means “nose-like”.

Iloilo City

Castle Hotel in Iloilo CityIloilo City is a living testimonial of the rich cultural heritage of the province. At its city proper, the popular landmarks include: Muelle Loney, Museo Iloilo, Plaza Libertad, Arevalo, Jaro, and Fort San Pedro. Arevalo boasts of its 19th century mansions, flower nurseries, and looms that weave piña and jusi. Jaro is the province’s residential center of the rich and elite who, to this day, have maintained their grand ancestral homes in impressive and tip-top condition.

Iloilo Towns

Jaro Iloilo CathedralEach town that lies along the city’s west coast possesses centuries-old churches. Guimbal shines brightly with its yellow sandstone, Tigbauan is proud of its Baroque façade, while San Joaquin boasts of its white coral. However, the most impressive of all is the Miag-ao Church, which is included in the World Heritage List. On the other hand, the eastern towns of the city lead to the town of Estancia, which will take you to the beautiful cluster of islands off the northeast Panay.

Iloilo Festivals

Iloilo is a host to a number of festivals people from different places not only in the country but also from around the world visit. The most popular of these festivals are: Dinagyang Festival, Ati-Atihan Iloilo version, Our Lady of Candles Feast, Paraw Regatta, Festival of Bulls or Pasungay, and the Carabao Race.

Iloilo Travel Destinations – Places to Visit


Iloilo has more to offer than grand churches and mansions. When you set your foot on this beautiful Panay province, you will never run out of destination. Below are just some of them:


Bucari - Iloilo’s little Baguio is located in the town of Leon. It is a popular summer destination in this hot spot of the Philippines.

Water Park
Westown Hotel’s El Dorado Waterpark - This is the newest addition to Smallville, the very popular entertainment and dining center of Iloilo. El Dorado features an elegant South American inspired pools and poolside rooms. This place has also become Smallville’s daytime attraction for those who want to spend a fun and refreshing time with family and friends.

Panay Beach in Iloilo with tourist Iloilo’s Beaches – The place to be when you want to be wet and hot. The island of Panay is blessed with beautiful islets and coasts teaming with diverse marine life and fantastic seascapes just like other islands in the Pacific. Iloilo is definitely no exception; however, it has many exceptional beaches with great potentials to become the next top tourist destination in the Philippines. From Iloilo’s northern to southern tips, you will definitely enjoy a lineup of beautiful beaches where you could get wet or be hot anytime of the year.

How to get to Iloilo

If it is your first time to visit Iloilo, you may opt to take the easy route by taking an airplane. Major cities in the Philippines have daily flights to Iloilo. However, if you are after a great adventure, you can take a long but wonderful route from Cebu City to Iloilo City via Negros Occidental. If you will be coming from Manila, you should first go to Cebu, then to Negros. Moreover, you can enjoy an overnight boat trip from Manila or Cebu. Indeed, Iloilo is the place to find refuge if you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy life in the city. It offers a peaceful, quiet, and calm haven to anyone who needs a more laid-back holiday. While it is a city where you can hear the birds chirping and smell the fresh fragrance of flowers, it is also a city where you won’t miss the convenience offered by a well-developed city."

Al Fresco Beach Resort, Lian, Batangas

"Al Fresco is a small, cozy beachfront resort located at the center of the Matabungkay Strip. It is an old family owned vacation house, recently renovated and transformed into a functional resort for guests to enjoy and feel at home at the beach.

They have 8 Air-conditioned rooms, a Dining Hall, Sala/Lanai area cozy enough for your afternoon readings and lounging, and a Veranda overlooking the entire ocean.

Also in the premises are Picnic tables that cater to our day tourists. This resort used to be a family house back in the 60’s so you may notice that some parts may still look old or antique.

How to get there

From Manila, Proceed to Tagaytay and head toward Nasugbu for 32km. Turn right after the Sea Oil Gas Station and drive 5.5 km (passing the sugar mill on your left) to the T-Junction(Shell Gas Station on the Left) Turn left and drive 12km, through the town of Lian, until you reach the Matabungkay Beach sign. Turn right and proceed 1.5km. Turn right on the cement road parallel to the beach. Al Fresco Beach Resort is on the left after about 300 meters.

From Batangas City, proceed to Balayan. Turn left from the Main Highway and head towards Calatagan. After 11km, turn right on the T-Junction Drive 1.8km and turn left upon seeing the Matabungkay Beach and signboard. Turn right on the cement road parallel to the beach. Al Fresco Beach Resort is on the left after about 300 meters."

Visit to Baguio

Baguio City, is the tourist capital of the Philippines also known as the "City of Pines" or the "Summer Capital"

Come to the city without a hassle traffic, live the cold city in the middle of a tropical country, stay in a heaven-like city in the middle of the mountainous area of the Philippines.

Baguio is known to it's cold climate even the Philippines is a tropical country. Baguio is one of the most visited place during summer.

"Until today, Baguio City is known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines and is the most frequented destinations in Northern Luzon by locals and foreign tourists alike. Baguio is 8 degrees (C) cooler any month, on the average, than any place in the lowlands. Manila can get to 35 degrees centigrade or above, while Baguio rarely exceeds 26 degrees centigrade at its warmest."

Many locals and foreigners are going to Baguio at any time to take a vacation. Foreigners did not find difficulties with respect to spoken language. English is the widely written and spoken language in the country. News papers and legal papers are mostly written in English. English is the medium instruction in school either in exclusive schools or in public.

Baguio City is approximately 250 kl north of Manila. It has an area of 49 square kilometers. Going to this place is usually taking a bus. From Manila (capital of Philippines) it takes 4-6 hours. By airplane it takes 45 minutes to get there.

For more info please visit www.gobaguio.com

Baguio is amazing place to stay especially for the locals. Baguio is different from other tourist spots in the Philippines because of it's natural climate. Staying there is like living in one of Europe countries. Calm and cold city. Away from annoying urban cities. Relaxing!