Palawan

Palawan

Puerto Princesa’s pride is easily the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River (or Underground River), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

The 8.2-kilometer river, said to be the longest navigable underground river in the world, winds its way underneath a mountain range, through the St. Paul Underground River Cave, and then goes out into the South China Sea. The journey through the cave system alone is 24 kilometers long.

The entire area where the Underground River is located is actually a national park and a model of biodiversity. More than 800 plant species, including almost 300 trees, 195 bird species, 30 mammals, 19 reptiles, and eight bat species call this area home.

Looking to swim? Island hopping is one of the biggest draws of Puerto Princesa. At Honda Bay, boats take tourists to nearby islands for lunch picnics, snorkeling and non-stop swimming. The calm water and sandy bottoms beat any hotel pool.

Puerto Princesa is also home to more secluded and less commercial beaches. Try the beaches of Nagtabon, Napsan, and Marufinas if you want to enjoy fine beaches and awesome sunsets away from the crowds.

In the municipality of Narra, Arena Island, a turtle sanctuary, and Rasa Island, a bird sanctuary, both have island-hopping opportunities.

A three-hour ride also takes you to Port Barton in the municipality of San Vicente, which has been described as a backpacker’s dream. The only problem you might have is deciding whether to swim, dive, snorkel or just swing to sleep on a hammock.

Get a glimpse of Puerto Princesa’s heritage in the Batak Cultural Village. It’s a model of the communities where the Batak mountain people — one of Palawan’s oldest and the smallest of three major indigenous groups — live. The village has a gallery and a shop where Batak handicrafts are sold.

The Tabon Cave Complex in the municipality of Quezon is an important archaeological site. Although the more than 100-hectare complex is supposed to have some 200 caves, only seven can be viewed. Of these, the Tabon Cave itself was the site where the remains of the oldest Homo sapiensin Southeast Asia were found, dating to 47,000 years ago.

For the brave, exotic food choices await. The ever popular Kinabuchs Grill and Bar serves tamilok(shipworm) and crocodile meat. The less adventurous can head for Ka Lui for their creative seafood dishes.

From: http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com

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Negros Occidental

Negros Occidental

Silliman University is the most prominent among Dumaguete’s universities and colleges. Established in 1901, it is the oldest American-founded university in Asia.

Stroll around the campus and visit the Silliman Anthropological Museum, which contains artifacts that date back 2,000 years and an ethnographic compendium of the different indigenous groups of the Philippines.

Other popular landmarks within the city are theSt. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral and theDumaguete Belfry, both built in 1811. The belfry formerly served as a watchtower that alerted locals of marauding pirates. And no visit to Dumaguete would be complete without spending time onRizal Boulevard, a beachfront promenade along the city’s commercial district. Thanks to its restaurants, tempurahan (hawker-style stalls) and various watering holes, the area is an excellent place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee or a lively evening with friends.

To see Dumaguete transformed, time your stay to coincide with one of the city’s festivals. Not to be missed are the Sandurot Festival, a celebration of Dumaguete’s multicultural roots, and theBuglasan Festival of Festivals, which includes a bevy of cultural events and competitions showcasing the entire province of Negros Oriental.

Dumaguete is also a great jump-off point for exploring other attractions within the province. The Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage Stonecraft (NOAH) in Bacong features stone-crafting factories and a souvenir shop that sells original handicrafts.

Less than an hour away from Dumaguete is Bais City. Visit any time between March and October and cruise the Tañon Strait for dolphin and whale-watching.

Make a pit stop at the Manjuyod White Sand Bar, a stretch of powdery white sand that fully emerges during low tide. Bais City is also home to the Central Azucarera de Bais – the first sugar mill in the Philippines, established in 1918. Early machines, tools, and even the Baldwin Locomotive that was used to transport the sugarcane remain on display.

Don’t leave without exploring the waters of the world-famous Apo Island, located just off the southeastern tip of Negros Island. This dazzling marine reserve is home to some 650 species of fish and 400 species of corals, and boasts spectacular drop-offs and sea walls. With 15 dive sites, it is among the best underwater experiences the Philippines has to offer.

From: http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com

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Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Norte

When you start your Ilocos Norte adventure, you are most likely to start in Laoag. It’s the capital of Ilocos Norte and the hub of everything Ilocano. Just go to Museo Ilocos Norte and you’ll see.  The region’s main offices and universities are also located here. World-famous sights such asPagudpud, Paoay and Vigan are less than an hour’s journey away.

Ilocos Norte is a coastal province so different colors of sand can be found here — the blackest of black in Laoag, the brown sands in Currimao, the white sands in Pagudpud.  Some parts in Pagudpud are also lined with a rocky shore.

But over all, Pagudpud’s beaches are amazing — stretches of white sand lined with coconut trees and crystal-blue water. It’s not overrun by tourists yet, but it’s getting there. So head out now.

Saud Beach is where the action is as many of the newer and more posh accommodations are here.

If you want a more secluded beach, try Blue Lagoon.  A good place to stay there is Kapuluan Vista Resort.

You can reach Pagudpud through the Maharlika Highway.  It goes up the coast with rolling tropical hills on one side and the blue water on the other.  No traffic here, so if you have a chance to drive, this is the place to do it. Having your own car will let you stop by the charming towns and take as many pictures of the view along the way.

The terrain is relatively flat and dry, but it gives way to hills the farther north you go. They make for an interesting hike too, as the hills sometimes conceal verdant valleys, forests, and rivers.

And we mustn’t forget the flavors of Ilocos, one of the more well-known types of Filipino cuisine.

Ilocanos love matching bagoong (fish paste) with just about anything, using souring agents such as native palm vinegar. They also have a penchant for bitter things like veggies and papaitan. A few of the dishes you shouldn’t miss: pinakbet, igado,dinakdakan, and poqui-poqui.  They love pork too. Proof—the deep-fried pork belly called bagnet and the native sausage, longganisa.

From: http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/

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Davao City

Davao City

The Davao Riverfront Complex houses theCrocodile Park, one of the city’s most popular attractions. The park showcases more than just crocs — it is also home to a variety of wildlife. Be sure to catch feeding time, educational talks and other shows. The complex also contains the Davao Butterfly House and the Tribu K’Mindanawan, a cultural village that holds an impressive fire-dancing performance. When you’ve worked up an appetite, try Filipino fare or exotic crocodile and ostrich-based cuisine at the RiverWalk Grill.

Amp up the fun at the Zorb Park and Water Ball, where you can enjoy rolling around while encased in a giant plastic ball. Head on to the zipline facilities in Outland  Adventure and  Zip City  for an  adrenaline  rush  coupled  with  panoramic  views  of  the city.  Davao  City  is  also  home  to  the  first  wakeboarding  facility  in Mindanao . Whether  you’re a  seasoned  pro or  a  rookie who’s  looking for  fun, Deca  Wakeboard  Park  is  the  destination  for you.

Then try river rafting at the Davao Wild Water Adventure. Brave Davao River’s mighty waters and experience a 10-kilometer stretch of pure river rafting fun.

Elsewhere in the city, Eden Nature Park offers activities such as camping, trekking, horseback riding, fishing and even a zip line.

The Malagos Garden Resort has stunning gardens in full bloom (including the endemicWaling-Waling orchid), stately pine trees and a collection of pieces by national artist Napoleon Abueva.

Then there’s the Philippine Eagle Center, a habitat that over 30 Philippine Eagles call home. (The Philippine Eagle is not only one of the world’s largest eagles but is also critically endangered.)

If you’re just looking for a quick stroll, take your pick from the many parks in the city — the expansive and breezy People’s Park is always a good choice.

For a quick history lesson, make your way toMuseo Dabawenyo and Davao Museum. This museum features galleries on local tribes and Muslim communities, historical landmarks, archives and various memorabilia.

Wondering where to stay? Marco Polo Davao has elegantly furnished rooms offering views of Mt. Apo or the Davao Gulf, as well as lavish pampering at its Lazuli Spa.

Its convenient location also means you can do your shopping at malls like SM City Davao, SM Lanang Premier, Abreeza Ayala Mall, Davao Chimes Mall, and several big local malls.

Don’t forget to drop by local coffee chain Blugre to try their famous durian coffee and durian cheesecake.

From: http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/

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Cebu

Cebu

As the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines, it has some of the country’s most iconic heritage spots. As a major trading port and site for some of the nation’s fastest-growing industries, it reinforces its multiculturalism with progression. This heady mix of urban vibes and casual provincial airs makes it a favorite destination of those seeking a showcase of the harmonious co-existence of history, culture and modernity.

Explore the city’s rich past with a visit to its historical landmarks.

Magellan’s Cross commemorates the moment Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted a wooden cross on Cebu’s soil to mark converting its locals to Christianity.

The Basilica del Santo Niño houses one of the country’s oldest religious relics: a statue of the Child Jesus that dates back to 1521.

Fort San Pedro is the smallest Spanish outpost in the Philippines, while the Casa Gorordo andYap-San Diego Ancestral House give a glimpse into residential life in Cebu during the Spanish era.

The Museo Sugbo showcases the province’s history. And if you can brave the cacophony, walk down Colon Street, the oldest street in the Philippines.

Not much of a history buff? Cebu still has a lot to offer. Head to Tops, a popular observation deck that offers romantic views of the city.

For a more adrenaline-pumping view, ride the Edge Coaster more than 130 meters off the ground, or go for a Sky Walk at the Crown Regency Cebu.

Malls like Ayala Center and SM City provide a range of shopping, dining and leisure activities for various budgets.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to stuff yourself silly with lechon (roast pig), which Anthony Bourdain called “the best pig ever” on an episode of his hit television show No Reservations. Zubuchon and CNT Lechon serve some of the best lechon in Cebu.

Other traditional and no less yummy Filipino dishes are best enjoyed at Café Laguna, theGolden Cowrie Native Restaurant andAbuhan.

Sophisticated palates will enjoy the international buffet and vegetarian menu at Shangri-La Mactan’s Tides and Marco Polo Plaza Cebu’s Cafe Marco, or the savory Chinese offerings at theCebu Waterfront Hotel & Casino’s Tin Gow.

Gustatory exploits can also be had at Nonki(Japanese), Café Orchidia (Italian) and La Marea(try their best-selling warm brownie cups).

No visit to Cebu is complete without a taste of its nightlife. Dive into a little debauchery at hip spots in IT Park or Crossroads. Or just park yourself at your hotel bar. Treff boasts inventive dishes and a beautiful glass-and-white façade, while the scenicBlu Bar & Grill was named one of Asia’s best bars by Travel + Leisure Asia.

The famous Sinulog Festival, which celebrates the child Jesus, happens every third Sunday of January. The city hosts a wild, colorful street party attracting revellers  from around the Philippines and the world.

From: http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/

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Boracay

Boracay

Any iconic photos of Boracay you’ve seen are likely to be from the westward-facing White Beach — four kilometers of white, powdery fine sand dotted with resorts, shops, and restaurants.

White Beach is composed of three sections.

The northernmost section – Station 1 – has the widest beachfront. This has the best (and most expensive) resorts and hotels.

The center of White Beach is Station 2. People come here to eat, shop, and party.

If you’re looking for a quieter area, then Station 3, the southernmost section, is for you.

Because the waters off White Beach are calm during Amihan season (November to May), tourism is at its peak during these months when the northeastern winds blow. Conditions reverse during the rainy season, when the Habagat or monsoon winds blow.

Bulabog Beach, on the eastern side of the island opposite White Beach, has large waves and strong winds year-round. This makes it a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. In fact, Bulabog Beach is considered Asia’s top kitesurf destination.

Whichever side of the island or end of the beach you choose, there’s a room for every type of traveler here. Budget accommodations start at around US$ 17, and can go all the way to US$ 300 per person at prime resorts like Discovery Shores.

And because Boracay gets tourists from different parts of the globe, you’ll find a wide variety of food choices: Chinese, Indian, American, Mexican, French, Italian, Swiss —even Moroccan food! Fresh seafood is a given.

There’s no shortage of activities for you at this island paradise. Boracay has around 25 dive sites that cater to all levels of experience. You can go parasailing. Take a paraw (native outrigger boat) for a tour of the island. Go waterskiing. Or cliff diving.

After all the sports, indulge in a luxurious massage right on the beach or at one of the spas. Enjoy a healthy fruit shake at Jonah’s. Take a relaxing dip at the infinity pool of the Shangri-La Resort and Spa, with its mesmerizing view of the sea. Shop for shell jewelry. And when the sun goes down, you can head to any of Boracay’s bars for a taste of the island nightlife. Cocktails, draft beer, and imported ales flow nightly as live bands and pounding disco music entertain you.

Most importantly, don’t forget to soak up some rays and lounge around on the fine white sand that made Boracay famous.

From: http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com

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