Camiguin Island

CAMIGUIN is a small pear-shaped volcanic island with a total land area of 238 sq. kilometers in the north west coast of Mindanao. It lies 10 kilometers off the coast of the Province of Misamis Oriental. Along with the Provinces of Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental, CAMIGUIN forms part of a geopolitical grouping of provinces comprising Region X or Northern Mindanao. In terms of land area, CAMIGUIN is only around 2 percent of Region X.

CAMIGUIN ISLAND is said to be "Born of Fire". It has been known as a volcanic island since it has seven volcanoes unmatched anywhere else in Southeast Asia and one of the volcanoes there has been unpredictably active which is the Mt. Hibok-hibok. Volcanic eruptions and land movements have created this spectacular island full of natural wonders and historical riches.

Mt Hibok-hibok plunged Camiguin’s old capital, Bombon, in 1871 and throttled almost 2000 inhabitants from its raging eruption in 1951. Since then, the volcano rested quietly giving its residents an assurance of normal living. And due to its volcanic wreckage from previous eruptions, most of Camiguin’s beaches are covered with pebbles and dark sand.

As an island of varied ecosystem, CAMIGUIN'S uniqueness lies in its various landscape, pristine natural environment and rural setting. As a matter of fact, the Province has been identified by the Department of Tourism as one of the top 25 tourist destinations in the Philippines, and No. 7 diving spot in the world.

It is a tiny island of luxuriant forests, volcanic grandeur, eternal hot and cold natural springs, pristine patches of black and white beaches, majestic waterfalls, exotic marine life, blue-ridge mountains, tranquil surroundings, idyllic lifestyle; it has a glorious past, and is inhabited with jovial people. The truth is, CAMIGUIN is best experienced than described as one gets enchanted by her mystical charm. It really has amazing natural resources and peaceful atmosphere that stir and baffle the minds of everyone.


CAMIGUIN is believed to be one of the Philippines's most beautiful island - a virtual paradise - as the island allows visitors to experience a sample of untouched beauty in its entirety. CAMIGUIN generally has good weather with seasonal rain showers enhancing its fresh green environment. Fine weather is guaranteed from April to June, while the coolest is from November to January. Locked in the eternal embrace of the sea, CAMIGUIN continues its simple existence sheltered from and unfazed by the virulent pressures of today's accelerated lifestyles.

CAMIGUIN'S rare and unique tourist attractions are:

1. Old Ruins of San Roque Church, Convent and Belfry in Gui-ob, Bonbon, Catarman

These are the testimonials and bits and pieces of the eruption of Old Vulcan Daan in 1871 that wiped out the illustrious town of Catarman. It is a monument with thick century-old walls, belfry and convent which stand reminiscent of the second Spanish settlement established in 1697.

2. Sunken Cemetery

A large white cross marks a cemetery swept into the sea by Old Vulcan Daan's eruption in 1871. From here it is a perfect place to watch the wonderful sunset over the ocean. It is also an ideal place for snorkeling and diving. An annual fluvial procession is held by townsfolk in honor of the sunken graves of their forefathers and as a thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.

3. Old Sto. Rosario Church of 1882 now restored to its former glory in Sagay, Camiguin

4. Via Cruzes - Old Volcano Slope

It is where life-size statues representing the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ - the 14 Stations of the Cross that dot a trail to Old Volcano's peak are found. At the last station is a tomb carefully carved and chiseled out of volcanic rocks. The pilgrims gather together here to pray during Lenten Season.

5. Ancestral House in Los Libertadores St., Mambajao now dwelled by the Francisco Family and built in 1800's

6. Centennial House in Lakas, Mambajao owned by Corrales Family and built in 1800's

7. Katibawasan Falls

A beautiful, clear stream of water cascading 70 meters into a rock pool surrounded by ground orchids, wild ferns, trees and boulders. Its cold water provides a refreshing summer splash to all vacationers.

8. Tuasan Falls

The approach to the wild and mighty falls entails a very scenic hike passing through the quaint Barrio of Mainit, Catarman and along the Rocky River bed. The pool below the deafening waterfalls is deep and clear. The surrounding scenery is virgin and perfect for a peaceful picnic. The only sound you hear is that of the tumbling falls and running water. It is 6 kilometers northwest of Catarman proper.

9. Binangawan Falls

In Sagay is Binangawan Falls wherefrom several miniature and gigantic waterfalls gushing through majestic granite stones that converge in one main pool, covered with luscious unspoiled vegetation, and a mystical rainbow are arched by the fall's mist as the sunlight break in through it.

10. Ardent Hot Spring

In the heart of the island bubbles this mineral pool with water around 400C. Vapor rises from the heated waters that run down the vents of the dormant Hibok-Hibok volcano. The springs are ideal to bathe in at night surrounded by cool mountain air. It has therapeutic effects. Picnic huts and tables are available in the beautifully landscaped gardens and there is a restaurant on site. It is 6 kilometers southwest of Mambajao.

11. Macao Cold Spring

It is a spring of natural cold and blue-green waters that overflow with grandeur, perfect to appease and quench one's humid feeling. It is situated at Tupsan Pequiño, Mahinog.

12. Sto. Niño Cold Spring

A spring located 4 kilometers north uphill of Catarman proper. It has a terrific huge pool of cold spring water measuring 25m x 40m sprouting from sandy bottom. The area has native stores, picnic huts and toilets for visitors and guests. It is located 4 kilometers north of central Catarman.

13. Tangub Hot Spring

It is a volcanic hot spring not fully developed a little beneath sea level where a pool is formed by sea stones and corals. Water temperature shifts from cold to lukewarm to warm then to hot as tide changes. Submerge in the warm water inside the pool at low tide and enjoy the cold sea water merging with the hot spring. This rare spring is situated at Naasag, Mambajao - about 12 kilometers west of the capital town; 10-20 meters offshore is ideal for scuba diving.

14. Mt. Hibok-Hibok

Its approach is via the base of Barangay Tagdo in Mambajao. It is a volcano 1250 meters high above sea level. Its slopes are challenges/barriers for professional climbers as they trek skillfully and maneuvers on loose rocks and boulders towards the peak. At the zenith, there is a crater like lake and steam outlets where one can have a clear panoramic view of the entire island and the Bohol Province during sunny clear days.

15. Old Volcano

A volcano located 13 kilometers away from Mambajao with stiff drop off measuring 7,080 meters high above sea level. It is the landmark for PANAAD.

16. Mt. Ilihan

It is located at Butay, Guinsiliban and a 3-hour climb uphill. There, one can see bluish green ridge of mountains and majestic slopes as he recites his Stations of the Cross, especially on Lenten Season. One can experience a sense of relief when reaching the top with its cool mountain breeze. Its splendid beauty is very touching. At the pinnacle, climbers can peacefully camp and take pleasure in unbothered world.

17. White Island

An isolated white sandbar where the view of towering Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Old Volcan reflects the sumptuousness the Province of Camiguin has ever achieved. It is reached within 10 minutes through light water transport from anywhere in Yumbing, Mambajao area.

18. Mantigue Island

The island is 4 hectares of evergreen forest, fringed with white granule sand beaches. A fishing village is found in the north of the island. One side of the island is a white sand beach with coral offshore, and the other opposite side provides a deep drop-off for snorkeling and diving. One gets there by light water craft in 25-30 minutes from San Roque, Mahinog.

19. Jicdup Shoal (Dive Spot)

It lies approximately 2 nautical miles from the shore of Balbagon, Mambajao. The seabed rises forming a shoal about 10 hectares in size hosting a variety of aquatic life. It is one of the best dive spots in Camiguin Island teeming with fishes of different species and shapes/sizes. It has excellent visibility and is best for underwater photographs, and novice divers.

20. Burias Shoal (Dive Spot)

Slightly smaller than Jicdup, Burias is among the favorite spot for high adventure seeking divers. It hauls the thrill seeking divers to the shoal to see schools of jacks, tuna, mackerels and barracudas. A verdant black coral covered bottom is also one of its treasures. Diving here can be strong, however, the little effort spent fining against the current is worth the excitement.

21. Taguines Lagoon

It is a lagoon mantled by limpid water, located at Benoni, Mahinog, with large cliff and gently rolling hills. The brackish water is engulfed in there by a century old crater, ideal for boat and fishing.

22. Centennial Tree

A Pili Nut tree which is more than century old situated at Lakas, Mambajao owned by the Corrales Family. One can marvel how the tree survived the tests of the times as he sees and touches its huge trunk.

CAMIGUIN celebrates year-round festivals like Lanzones Festival held every third week of October when sweet Camiguin lazones is proudly displayed. Highlights of the festival include agri-trade fair and street dancing contest that feature traditional dance, drum circles and colorful ethnic costumes; San Juan sa Hibok-Hibok Festival held every 24th of June in honor of St. John the Baptist with fluvial processions, parades and water sports; Panaad - Holy Week observance when tens of thousands of Christians come to the island to walk around the 64 kilometer circumferential highway as a form of sacrifice, either to fulfill a vow or to do penance for the remission of sins. The pilgrims congregate either at the Old Vulcan or Mt. Ilihan to pray; Camiguin Christmas Festival when choral competition, pastorales contest, parol sa barangay and belen sa barangay are conducted during Yuletide Season; and May Festival when notable fiesta celebrations of almost all barangays in Camiguin re-celebrated.

HOW TO GO TO CAMIGUIN

To get to CAMIGUIN, one has to travel one and a half hours from Cagayan de Oro City to Balingoan, Misamis Oriental, and take any of the hourly scheduled ferries across the channels of Mindanao Sea, which dock in either ports of Guinsiliban or Benoni. There is a regular sea and air transportation from Cebu to CAMIGUIN and vice versa. Once in CAMIGUIN, one can go around the 64-kilometer circumferential road in just one hour and a half time through public or private transportation.

The people of CAMIGUIN are friendly, fun-loving, and very hospitable. It’s capital, Mambajao, has a friendly small community of mostly Visayan and Chinese origin. Camiguingnons are also hardworking. The main occupation of the people is fishing and farming. Coconut is the major production as far as sources of income is concerned. Other plantations are abaca, rice, mangoes, lanzones and other fruit trees. Small cottage industries are increasing in number to accommodate the influx of visitors. Cebuano is the main language while a few speak Kinamiguin, an ancient dialect. Nearly everyone speaks English fairly.

Their source of livelihood comes from the produce of their land and the surrounding ocean. Every October, Lanzones Festival transform the island into an explicit sight of townsfolk dressed up in their traditional costumes to celebrate the harvest of this small, sweet tasting, light-yellow fruit that grows in bunches at the foot of Mt. Hibok-hibok. The festival is remarkably good-natured, filled with colors and properly organized. Camiguin Lanzones Fruit Aside from these natural landforms huddling in the island, Camiguin is an area of forested mountains mixed with coconut trees along its coasts.

CAMIGUIN beckons you to come, savor and discover the many ways anyone can unwind and joyfully dwell on the island's offerings.


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You should visit Camiguin, you will enjoy their beautiful sceneries and beaches.

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Dakak Beach, Zamboanga

The very popular Dakak Beach is most known for its beautfiully shaped cove and powdery white sand, and as a diving mecca in Mindanao. Pristine blue waters, excellent dive sites with an abundance of coral reefs, and a magnificent sunset horizon characterize this tropical eden. Dakak Park and Beach Resort boasts 15 hectares of wooded land, a natural reservoir for native plants and animals, and a 750-meter private white-sand beach.

Nestled on the tip of Northern Zamboanga, Dakak faces the Sulu Sea in the west and is surrounded by mountains on its east side. North of Dakak are Negros, Cebu and Bohol. To its south is the Mindanao mainland with Borneo and Sarawak beyond the Celebes Sea. Conveniently encircled by all these large island, Dakak tactfully evades the typhoon belt, making it the perfect all-season destination.

Zamboanga del Norte today is equally famous for Dakak Beach, the province’s leading natural attraction. The very popular Dakak Beach is most known for its beautifully shaped cove and powdery white sand, and as a diving mecca in Mindanao. Perfect blue waters, tremendous dive sites with an wealth of coral reefs, and a splendid sunset horizon distinguish this tropical Eden. Dakak Park and Beach Resort boasts 15 hectares of wooded land, a natural reservoir for native plants and animals, and a 750-meter private white-sand beach

In Dipolog which is about 2 hours by air from Manila, you will enjoy the beauty of Dakak where you can discover coral reefs while you scuba dive in astonishing clear waters. It also boasts of fine white sand and surrounded by glamorous flowers and coconut palms.

Diving in Dakak is best in the months of March until September.
Dakak dive sites in the beach resort provide a variety of environment from gradual slopes to coral thickets, vertical walls and caves. Marine life is assorted. Some spots are thick with soft coral growth and huge basket sponges, others with schools of jacks, surgeons, and small reef inhabitant.

How to Get There:

By Air: Phililppines flies five times a week to Dipolog City from Manila while orther connections from the provinces may be made vi Cebu’s Mactan International Airport. Asian Spirit also offers a daily connecting flight to Dipolog from Cebu.

Flights from Manila take 65 minutes while from Cebu it take a mere 45 minutes. From Cebu, you may take the fast ferry to Dapitan City.

The flight from Manila is 70 minutes while the fast ferry from Cebu takes 4 hours.



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Dakak is one of the Philippines' beautiful beaches. It has a powdery white sand a wonderful shores.

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Banaue Rice Terraces

Banaue rice terraces has been described as the eight wonder of the world. Carved out of the hillside by Ifugao tribes people 2000 to 3000 years ago without the aid of machinery to provide level steps where the natives plant rice. And they are still in use today. In 1995, they were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Banaue rice terraces stretch like stepping stones to the sky - some reaching an altitude of 1500m (4920ft). It is considered as one of mankind's greatest engineering feat. If the terraces were laid end to end, they would stretch half way around the world.

One of the major appeal of Banaue rice terraces to the local and international tourist are the many hiking trails in the area. There are many young locals, mostly college students who serve as guides. But with or without a guide, you will find the friendliness and warmth of the Ifugao people endearing.

The Banaue Rice Terraces are now showing signs of erosion. Some areas needs maintenance as some of the new generation Ifugaos are migrating to the cities looking for better opportunities. That given, the terraces still never fails to awe the traveller.

Aside from Banaue rice terraces, nearby are 4 other similar Ifugao terraces:

BATAD rice terraces. Also located in Banaue, it is home to the spectacular tiered, amphitheatre-shaped terraces.

MAYOYAO rice terraces is similarly situated in Banaue. The organic Ifugao rice called Tinawon, in red and white variety, is harvested here in abundance.

HAPAO rice terraces. Its stone-walled rice terraces date back to 650 AD and is located in Hungduan, where Napulawan terraces can also to be found.

KIANGAN rice terraces. It is home to two famous rice terraces sites namely: Nagacadan and Julungan, known for their size and visual impact.

Banaue rice terraces, although a bit far from Manila is one of the most awesome destinations in the Philippines. Visitors never regret spending time and resources to see its beauty and grandeur. One cannot but ponder how the Ifugaos made it all using just their bare hands...


How to get to Banaue Rice Terraces:


From Manila there are air-conditioned buses that go straight to Banaue, The trip takes about 9 hours. The Dangwa Transit have daily trips to Banaue Rice Terraces. Their terminals are located along Dimasalang St., Sampaloc, Manila and Aurora Boulevard, Cubao, Q.C. (Tel# 731-2879 & 410-1991). Also plying the Banaue route is Auto Bus (Tel# 735-8098) with terminals at España Blvd corner G. Tolentino St., Manila. The bus leaves at 10 PM daily and arrives at about 7AM. From Baguio City, there are also buses going to the Banaue Rice Terraces.

The trip will pass through the provinces of Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya then to Ifugao. Accommodation is no problem, there are several inns in town like the Banaue View Inn, the Banaue Hotel and other lodging houses with reasonable rates. Some private homes also accept tourist and transients for a lesser charge.


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Banaue Rice Terraces is a work of art of native Ifugaos, they made it by their mere hands. Isn't it amazing!

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Pagsanjan Falls

Do you know that the world-famous Pagsanjan Falls is actually not in Pagsanjan? This famous tourist destination is located in Brgy. Anglas, Cavinti, Laguna. A big "WELCOME TO CAVINTI" sign erected on top of a big rock on the river on the way to the falls will let the tourists know that they are no longer in Pagsanjan - I do not know if foreigners care about this fact. Enclosed in parenthesis in that sign is the name Magdapio Falls which is the preferred name by Cavinti folks. From this point facing upstream, the left bank is belongs to Lumban and the right bank belongs to Cavinti. In fact, Pagsanjan Falls drops water from Cavinti River. If you have been to Cavinti, this is the river crossed by the overflow spillway on the road going to Lumot.

Another waterfalls, Talahib Falls, situated about 900 meters downstream of Magdapio Falls serves a first stop for the upstream boat ride. Talahib is a sitio of Brgy. Caliraya, hence, the town of Lumban hosts this waterfalls. This waterfalls is also called First Falls while the Magdapio Falls is called Main Falls. The Talahib Falls area has a souvenir shop, barbeque stand and most important, a pay-toilet for PhP10 per pee.

At the Main Falls (or Magdapio Falls or Pagsanjan Falls), the main attraction aside from a view of the falls itself is the raft ride. For PhP70, skilled raftmen will bring tourists aboard bamboo rafts by pulling on ropes laid across the lagoon. They will bring you to the far end to have a glimpse of another cascade on top of the Main Falls. Another rope guides the raft behind and underneath the falls to the Devil's Cave. At the cave, visitors enjoy playing with their echo by shouting to their lung's desire.

It is interesting to note that the raft services is maintained by the Cavinti municipal government. Rightfully so, since they are the one hosting the attraction. Reciprocally, the revenue is shared with other host towns.

The raft crew has established a trail for their own use. It includes a series of ropes for the vertical portion. Even skilled mountaineers would not be allowed to use this trail for safety reasons - one wrong step will send down a small stone deadly for the people at the bottom.

How to get there?

This is not only a "How to get there?" but also a "What's in there?" narrative.

From Metro Manila, Pagsanjan is best reached via the South Luzon Expressway. After Canlubang Exit, go around the cloverleaf to reach Calamba. From Calamba, follow the provincial road passing Los Ba?os, Bay, Victoria, Pila, Sta. Cruz and finally Pagsanjan. Of these towns, only Calamba, Los Ba?os and Pagsanjan are traversed by the highway thru the town proper, the rest is via by-pass roads or the town itself is out of the highway.

Getting to Talahib Falls and Pagsanjan (Magdapio) Falls is by boat paddled and pushed upstream by two boatmen. Gone are the days of wooden boats. Nowadays, they use locally built fiberglass canoes which cost about PhP18,000 that the boatmen rent from the owners for PhP100.

The boat ride rates are conspicuously posted in various locations throught the town of Pagsanjan. So, someone who was able to read them should not be victimized.

Everyone is cautioned about dealing with flaggers. These are the "un-accredited" boatmen who will run beside your vehicle as you slow down trying to look for directions. We were told that not only they overcharge; unsuspecting victims would even be charged again on the return trip. Try to stop or slow down at every corner when you are in Pagsanjan and see these flaggers wildly run after you. The more if you are on board a van.

Either you avail of the packages offered by hotels or find a friend from Pagsanjan who could arrange with his boatmen friends for you. That was what we did for this trip. We found "off-duty" hotel-accredited boatmen. We were satisfied with their service that we had no second thoughts giving extra tips. We even paid for their boat rental. Another advantage is, the boatmen being personally known, you will be content leaving your belongings with them - as when you take the raft ride. (If you do not have a friend in Pagsanjan, post a message and this contributor will help you get in touch with one of them)

The boat trip starts from Pagsanjan. In our case, we did start from Brgy. Pinagsanjan near Magdapio Bridge. (Shh! that is where the boat docks are).

The boatride fee goes at PhP580 per passenger for a maximum of three passengers per boat. A single passenger would have to pay the fees for two passengers. So it is not fun to come here without company.

PhP35 entrance tickets shall be obtained beforehand from the Pagsanjan Municipal Hall. One of the boatmen could buy the tickets for you. (The entrance fee is being shared this way: Pagsanjan PhP15, Cavinti PhP7.50, Lumban PhP7.50, Provincial Govt PhP2.50, Trust Fund PhP2.50. While Pagsanjan do not host a single waterfall, they are the one handling the tourists, and exerting efforts in promotion, hence the bigger share) A collector on board a raft will collect the tickets with a tithe bag as the boats pass beside him.

Donning of lifejacket is compulsory. The boatmen will get them for you for a rental fee of only PhP20. The hotels charge more for those lifejackets. The hotels would also offer optional seat cushions and other extras. Of course, you may need to get a room to change before and after the trip - that would cost a few more bucks. Now, if you need to change and you do not have a hotel room? Hey! you are a trekker, aren't you?

There are at least 16 rapids (turbulent waters) that the boat has to go through. Going upstream, the boatmen will get down at these rapids and push the boat or use their feet to kick the rocks and propel the boat upstream. At places where the rocks are too many and the water is too shallow, steel pipes were placed transversally at proper intervals so that the boat can be slid over these pipes.

The real excitement is on the boat's return trip. This is what was dubbed "Shooting the Rapids". See how skillfully the boatmen will manuever the boat between rocks, alternately using their paddle or their feet. There are places that the rapids is on a curve but the boatmen will guide the boat through it. If the paddle is not enough to steer, the boatmen's feet surely will.

Tips:

Although not required, it is advisable to wear a helmet (a sports helmet or hard hat) because the boat moves too close to the big rocks which your head might hit. Also, the walls of the gorge is too high, that any falling object from it, such as small stones, can do some damage to an unprotected head. Rarely, some monkeys along the gorge are fond of throwing objects at those boats.

Don't look funny wearing clothes as if you're going to the mall. Be ready to get wet. Have plastic bags for your cameras, wallets and other keep-dry-items. There is no use for your cellphones once the boat entered the gorge - that is when you entered Cavinti. GPS receivers works fair but loses signal at some portions.



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There are lots of exciting things you can do in Pagsanjan Falls like their boat ride and rafting. The falls is very beautiful and preserved. Visit it and I know you'll enjoy it.

Source of Asia's Pearl of the Orient Travel Blog

Vigan, Ilocos Sur

The Philippines is an archipelago made up of 7,107 islands from the north to the south. This makes the Philippines an interesting place to visit because of the variation of culture and things you can see and experience by visiting each every island.

One of the famous places that a person can visit in the Philippines way up north is Vigan. Vigan is found in Ilocos Sur.

Vigan is a great place to visit because it makes you feel that you are living in the past. This is because Vigan still has all those Spanish houses built way way back when the Philippines were still under Spanish rule.

In fact on the poblacion itself there are still 180 administrative and religious structures, ancestral houses, historical landmarks and public parks. All of which have been built during the 18th and 19th century. This makes it the only colonial town that has been surviving in the Philippines.

For people who really want to be eccentric, traveling via horse carriages in Vigan is a fun way to go around town. There are also places there where you will be taught how to make pottery.

Aside from the manmade attractions in Vigan, there are still natural features that can be enjoyed as well. The place also has its share of beaches and rivers in which one can take a fresh dip after the tour.

In Vigan, the restaurants there are really perfect for romantic dinners. The places to dine are ancestral houses that have been turned into restaurants. Just imagine you and your date eating dinner like the renaissance times.

The foods in Vigan are also delectable. Try the seafood that Vigan offers. The seafood in Vigan is delectably fresh and scrumptious. Aside from the seafood, Vigan also specializes in sausages. Don’t forget to take home these sausages, because you don’t know what you’ll be missing.

Going to Vigan is one long ride from Metro Manila, the capital of the Philippines. The trip will be a long and tiring 7 hours. Be prepared to either sleep during the whole trip or have some form of entertainment.

However that long 7 hour ride will seem really fast because of the scenic route along Ilocos Highway. There are 3 bus rides that will regularly go to Vigan – Manila, namely the Philippine Rabbit, Partas Bus Company, and Dominion.

If you’d want a faster trip, you can always opt to ride a plane. Philippine airlines offer trips going to Laog (also in Ilocos Sur) three times a week. After arriving at the Laog International Airport you can now drive on to Vigan; which will take another 1 and a half hour.


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Vigan, Ilocos sur has a very rich culture that everyone can enjoy. You'll feel living on Spanish times in the Philippines because of their preserve Spanish house. It's very wonderful!

Source of Asia's Pearl of the Orient Travel Blog

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.

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. So, what are you waiting for? Book a trip to Iloilo now!


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What a beautiful tourist destination! Iloilo is one of my favorite places. The people are very warm and hospitable, the place is very wonderful and they have rich culture also.

Source of Asia's Pearl Of the Orient Travel Blog

Pangasinan

Pangasinan is a province 250 kilometers north on Manila. The province is bordered by the provinces of Zambales and Tarlac on the south, Nueva Vizcaya and Nueva Ecija to the east, La Union on the north and the Lingayen Gulf to the west. The name Pangasinan was derived from the word "asin" or salt due to Pangasinan's vast salt making industry. The province is also a major producer of mangoes, rice, milkfish and bamboo handicrafts.

Pangasinan Hundred Islands National ParkToday, Pangasinan is more known for its most popular tourist attraction which is the Hundred Islands National Park. A cluster of more than a hundred islands off the town of Alaminos on the Lingayen Gulf. Of which, the biggest island is named Quezon. Most of the islands are small and uninhabited and are only occasionally visited during the day by local and foreign tourist. Most of the bigger islands have beaches where visitors can spend the day or camp out for a picnic.

However, only a few of these island have facilities. Those that offer facilities are: Quezon Island with viewing decks, toilets and picnic sheds, the Governor's Island has accommodation facilities for those who would like to stay longer and the Children's Island which has bathrooms, camping and sleeping areas.

Now, visitors to the Hundred Islands can better enjoy their vacation with water sports facilities offered for rent at Lucap Waterfront (Tel # +63 75 5512246) for activities like jet skiing, windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling, parasailing and big game fishing.


Other Tourist Attractions of Pangasinan:

Pangasinan CavePlaces of interest in Pangasinan are: the 2 lighthouses in Bolinao: the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse in Barangay Patar and the Port Bolinao Lighthouse in Guigui-wanen in Barangay Luciente; the Tara waterfalls in Bolinao; the pristine Balingasay river; Antong Falls in the town of Sison; the Urduja House in Lingayen; the Salasa Church in Bugallon; Mount Balungao in Balungao; Manleluag Spring National Park in Mangatarem; Bolinao Museum; Sanctuario de Senor Divino Tesoro in Calasiao; Redeemer’s Cross; Agno Umbrella Rocks and the Lingayen Gulf War Museum in the town of Lingayen.

Lingayen Gulf, PangasinanFor the adventurous, there are several caves in Pangasinan waiting to be explored. There is the Cacupangan cave in the town of Mabini, Cindy’s cave in Bolinao and the 200 meter Villacorta Caves in the town of Villacorta with waterfalls, pools and rock formations.

Aside form the beaches found on the Hundred Islands, one need not get a boat ride to get to a beach in Pangasinan. The coastline of Lingayen Gulf is blessed with numerous beaches for tourist and vacationers. There is the Bonuan beach, videoke stalls to match and other beaches that dot the coastline of Pangasinan.


Best Beaches of Pangasinan:

Beach at Pangasinan, Philippines● Abrak Beach in Bolinao has huts for rent for the budget conscious and several resorts for those with bigger budgets.
● Tambobong Beach, also in Dasol has pristine waters and a fishing village serves as a backdrop.
● Colibra Island, in Dasol has a beautiful shoreline; clear waters that is good for for diving and snorkeling. The island’s beach however has no shade. So be prepared to get a dark tan.
● Tondol Beach in Anda town offers a long stretch shallow and calm waters. Ideal for sunbathers.

● Arnedo Beach also in Bolinao offers several resorts, some with surfing facilities with reasonable rates.


How to get to Pangasinan:

Catch a bus from Manila going to Alaminos, Pangasinan. From the town proper of Alaminos, there are tricycles and jeepneys that ply the 3 kilometer route to Lucap town where the Public Assistance Center for the Hundred Islands National Park is located. The center also accepts reservations for accommodations to the islands. From the center, motorized boats (banca) can be hired for a trip to the islands.


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Pangasinan is a lovely place! They really have beautiful beaches espeacially in Bolinao, Pangasinan. Hundred islands is one of their best tourist spots, it's wonderful!

Resource of Asia's Pearl of the Orient Travel Blog

Wonderful Subic Bay (Continuation)

OCEAN ADVENTURE AMUSEMENT/THEME PARK

Ocean Adventure Marine Park in Subic BayAs the first Marine Park and aquarium in the Philippines, you and your family can enjoy playful sea loin, dolphin and whale shows. Ocean Adventure is located at the Camayan Wharf, West Ilanin Forest Area of Subic Bay. With 12,000 sqm of land area and 8,000 sqm of water space, your family is assured an entire day of fun and excitement, intermixed with informative knowledge about the wonderful world of sea life.

Don’t miss the Discovery Aquarium, a showcase of Subic Bay and South China Sea marine-life and its ecosystem. Here you’ll learn of the multitude of varied marine life in these seas, along with ways to help protect and preserve our rich, natural, sea resources.

Your children will enjoy a the Learning Center where they will learn numerous aspects of marine life and get to sit-in on a spectacular Sea Lion Painting Session where very wise sea lions actually paint on canvas.

Visit the Dolphin and Friends Show and watch the Killer Whales and dolphins in their lagoon perform jumps and tricks with grace and amazing skill. You will also learn interesting facts about these mammals.

If you love sea lions, you can’t miss the Sea Lion Marine Patrol Show. Here you’ll get to watch these extremely smart guys perform tricks with balls and dancing that will make your heart sing with joy and laughter. The trainers also deliver a strong environmental message of preservation throughout the show.

The Photo Encounter brings you close to the mammals of Ocean Adventure in a way you may have never experienced. The South American sea lions, dolphins or whales all make fantastic friends very easily! You can shake a flipper, a get a kiss or hug from a sea lion and have that moment captured in photo opportunities to show all your friends and family back home.

If you’d like to encounter these fantastic sea creatures more in these natural environment, and stay only in shallow water, why not try the Beach Encounter? This is a 30 minute interactive adventure with the dolphins and whales where you can shake their fins and touch their smooth skin actually in the water with them. Of course you have lots of photo opportunities here.

The Swim Encounter is one step beyond the Beach Encounter and will provide an experience found in few other places in the world. For 45 minutes, you can actually swim with the dolphins and whales in deep water. Put on your life vest and go for a ride with one of these majestic creatures. Pictures taking sessions are included.

If you are a diver, why not take it one step further and try the Dive Encounter Program where you strap on your dive-tanks and actually play-amongst, feed and swim in the deep with these massive, playful, majestic creatures. Of all the encounters, this requires the most skill. Then get your photo taken with your new aquatic acquaintances to show all of your friends and family back home. You must be a certified diver and show your dive card for this one.

For the really serious enthusiast, there is even a half-day long program called the Animal Trainer Adventure. Work hand-in-hand with the actual trainers at Ocean Adventure and actually participate in training sessions with these feisty sea creatures. Swim with then, prepare their food and learn some important training techniques. Lots of lasting memories photo opportunities present themselves when you sign-up with this program.

ZOOBIC SAFARI

Located in the hills of Subic, Group 1, Ilanin Forest area. This is the park everyone has been talking about. This is the next best thing to an authentic trek on a African safari in Kenya. You get to avoid the long plane ride and expenses of a trip to Africa by partaking in this facility’s attractions. Zoobic Safari has 25 hectares of land filled with wild and exotic animals roaming and playing in their simulated natural habitat.

A Few of the Attractions are Listed below.

Close Tiger Encounter - An exciting, extra-close encounter (2 ft away) with Siberian and Bengal tigers. Watch them tear apart and bite-through raw chicken carcasses with the ease of butter.

Tiger Safari - A once in a lifetime adventure! Ride in a safari jeep where you actually enter an open-range area teaming with live tigers roaming and frolicking in their natural habitat. Listen to their deep, awesome growl just a few inches from your face as they eat from the hands of your tour guide through the screen mesh of your safari vehicle. While on our safari the tour guide threw a chicken on top of the vehicle and a 400 pound Siberian tiger followed to the roof, rocking the vehicle back and forth with its massive weight. He consumed the entire chicken while we watched his huge teeth only a foot or so away, through the screened mesh of the vehicle, directly under the giant mammal. Wow, what an experience!

The Zoobic Park - Enjoy a walk-through petting zoo, jungle environment with tame and gentle roaming albino caribou, deer, ostrich, bear, monkey, eagles, miniature horses, ducks and more.

Savannah - A sanctuary of exotic and farm animals featuring a wide range of ostriches, potbellied pigs, wild boars and guinea fowls. See the ostriches run alongside your car. You may even get a peck from them.

Serpentarium – Grab an up-close and personal view of snakes, iguanas, lizards, turtles and various other slithering and crawling reptiles.

Rodent World – A collection of rodents like you’ve never seen before. They even have their own grooming salon where you can watch guinea pigs get a shampoo and style job.

Croco Loco – Here you can view up to 200 crocodiles in a natural swamp area. If you’re lucky, get a chance to feed a few of the snappers. Dangle a chicken on a fishing pole and see them jump, snap and tear at the carcass. Quarter chickens can be purchased for only P50 each.

Adventure Animal Rides - Ride on camels, horses, carabaos and alpacas - a unique and exciting experience only available at Zoobic Safari.

Educational Shows - You can also see educational shows featuring live animals or learn jungle survival skills from the indigenous Aeta people and see native dances performed by the same. When an Aeta did the monkey dance for us, he traversed up a tree in a split-second; for a moment, we thought he actually changed into a real monkey.

Call: 045-499-0695 for additional information regarding Zoobic Safari.

JUNGLE JOE’S WORLD

Jungle Joe's World in Subic BayThis is probably one of the most family-oriented fun places you’ve ever been to. Imagine, old U.S. Navy munitions bunkers, set in the deep Subic jungle, converted to various specialty entertainment bunkers of fun. Jungle Joe’s World is currently oriented towards the younger crowd, but you’ll find fun for the entire family here for sure.

There’s a total of 60 hectares of land belonging to the park, much as yet to be developed. As of April 2008, they have 6 hectares ready for family fun and excitement. Located in the lush Subic mountainous area of the Group 3 Ilanin Forest, you and your family will enjoy the deep, rich, green surroundings and get lots of exercise as you partake of all the attractions.

The first phase of this amusement park consists mainly of the Bunkers of Fun attractions. These are brightly painted and completely transformed, creatively designed, play areas with various themes. Some of the attractions you’ll find in these include, interactive kiddy rides, novelty shops, discotheques, an ultra-comfortable beanbag seated theater, Santa and the Elves village and other uniquely-themed, interestingly exhilarating attractions.

For the older kids and adults, there’s a very large-scale and challenging paint ball course. This one is huge with sniper towers, numerous obstacles and hiding places. You’ve never played paintball like this before.

At Jungle Joe’s, not only will the kids and adults have fun, but the fun is strategically integrated with learning experiences at every turn and lots of physical exercise thrown in as well. Many of the attractions encourage the kids to learn about ecological and other issues and to burn-up lots of energy as they are kid powered. By the end of the day, they most likely will be sleeping in the car on the ride back home.

The near future looks very bright for Jungle Joe’s World with gargantuan plans afoot such as an artisan village, scholarships for talented Filipinos and, if financing works-out, some very large themed attractions. An example is the planned and very eagerly awaited roller coaster ride through the Mt. Pinatubo Volcano experience. Lets hope the owners are able to get this one going.

PLACES TO STAY IN SUBIC BAY

SUBIC CONDOS - Affordable family condo accommodations in Subic Bay available through a special arrangement with Clark Subic Marketing only. Now you can stay in Subic Bay at a one-of-a-kind, master-planned community nestled close to the residential foothills where lush, green forests meet the clear blue skies. These are reasonable, full-featured villa-style units with multiple bedrooms. You’ll feel rested and at peace as you enjoy this classy and spread-out facilities of this wonderful home away from home lodging.

MOUNTAIN WOODS HOTEL – Romantic and Intimate best describe this hideaway in the residential mountain area of Subic. This is the place to inspire your love with your heart; it will be forever remembered in her heart when she reconsiders the romance, beauty and grandeur of this location.

WHITEROCK BEACH RESORT - This is indeed a true resort in every sense of the word. This resort is located just outside of the Freeport Zone in the Bareto’s Beach area, but well worth the short drive. 115 rooms of all varieties, your vacation or group event is in the perfect setting at this resort. This one has it all: jet skiing, banana boat rides, beach activities, oceanfront cottages, elegant restaurants and romantic beach evenings for you and your mate.

LEGENDA HOTEL – Enjoy a class-act as one of the original Subic Bay high-end hotels. The Legenda maintains a well-founded reputation of high-quality accommodations. This facility features 236 rooms from standard to luxury suites. They specialize in putting on first-rate events with their variety of function rooms large and small, and even a huge convention center for a wonderfully facilitated, corporate seminar or large wedding reception.

MAJESTIC HOTEL – Affordability and comfort work hand and hand at this central Subic business district location is great for you business men on a budget. And for entertainment purposes, you’ll find it only an extended-stroll to the boardwalk and waterfront areas. Currently being renovated, this hotel will help free-up your budget for other luxuries while vacationing.

LIGHTHOUSE MARINA HOTEL/RESORT – This hotel/resort stands out from the rest as a landmark in Subic with its authentic looking old lighthouse structure right on a peninsula jetting-out into the bay in the Moonbay Marina district. Light house offers high-end facilities with lots of amenities for moderate to upper-end prices. Enjoy widescreen plasma television sets in each room.

SUBIC BAYFRONT HOTEL – You get a reasonable room with a view of the beautiful Subic sunsets? This is a mid-level hotel with nice rooms, a great courtyard swimming pool and very fair prices. This facility is located directly on Waterfront Road in the Moonbay Marina district for all the fun and entertainment potential.

VISTA MARINA HOTEL/RESORT – A very open and airy hotel-resort facility right on the waterfront. You can sit-back at Vista’s great pool, sip a margarita and contemplate the sunsets glistening off the bay. Features include a business center, paid Wi-Fi Internet access and a 100 person meeting room for your events.

SUBIC BAY YACHT CLUB HOTEL/RESORT – This is a members-only facility, but Clark Subic Marketing may be able to arrange a potential match with a member. A very dramatic and ultra elegant clubhouse is ideal for your large event, wedding or corporate kickoff. Call CSM for coordinated bookings of this facility.

For additional informations and bookings, you can call 045-499-0695.
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Last May 2009, I visited Subic again and this time I went to Ocean Adventure. I really had fun! I witnessed a diving show there and they're really amazing. I watched dolphin show and sea lion show which shows how very intelligent the dolphins and sea lions are as well as they're trainers (I salute you guys!). I also have my not so close encounter with dolphins and they're very cute(how I wish I could take them home!), they really love humans, the dolphins look at me and they produces sound. Though I don't understand what they are saying I felt that they're happy and it sounds like a they are singing. What an unforgettable experience!

Resource of Asia's Pearl of the Orient Travel Blog

Wonderful Subic Bay (Continuation)

JEST CAMP

Jungle Environment Survival Training (JEST) Camp is a unique facility used to gain experience on how to survive in the hostile environment of the jungles of Southeast Asia. The prestigious special operations teams from the U.S. Marines used to learn jungle survival skills from the local indigenous Aetas of this region. They acquired skills such as how to make fire out of nothing but dried bamboo, what plants are safe to eat and those that are not and, how to obtain precious water in the deep, isolated jungle in order to sustain their lives.

If you are one of the brave ones and opt for the full-blown course, you will be taken to remote areas of the jungle overnight without food or water. Your Aeta guides will show you how go retrieve water from different plant vines. Then you will be taught how to cook rice using only green bamboo, make insect repellant from certain plants and so forth, all utilizing only the basic elements of the jungle that surround you. So, why not learn some new techniques for survival from the same instructors who taught these jungle skills to the elite Navy Seals?

But JEST Camp is more than a place to learn about jungle survival. A few of the additional attractions you’ll experience include a mini zoo, a handicraft and souvenir shop, insectariums, a wonderful butterfly garden, a breathtaking view deck of Subic Bay, an amphitheater, a cafeteria featuring natural native cooking in bamboo, a wonderfully-creepy Spider World exhibit and an Aviary with birds from all over the world.


ECO-TOURISM BY SBMA TOURISM & FREEPORT SERVICES CORPORATION (FSC)

If you are into nature, appreciate the wilderness and the beauty of protected forests andSubic Bay Eco Tourism lush jungle areas, you have come to the right place in your quest. You won’t be disappointed with Subic Bay for exceptional ecological and nature experiences.

If you enjoy bird watching, remote stream fishing or simply want to be at one with nature, then this program offers you the opportunity to hire an FSC guide to show you and your group some of the most beautiful back-country areas of Subic.

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Tourism Department and Freeport Services Corporation (FSC) offer tours and a wide variety of adventures in the deeply forested nature areas in and around Subic Bay. Trips to Baton Falls, Hidden Falls, El Kabayo Falls, Pamulaklakin Forest Trails, and the Pamulaklakin River in the Binictican Heights area are but a few of the wonders of nature waiting for your senses to absorb.


REME FIELD SPORTS COMPLEX

Remi Field Track - Subic Bay, PhilippinesLocated along Rizal Highway and the Corner of Burgos, right in the heart of Subic, you’ll find a little-known sportspersons treasure chest. After the long-drive, while lodging at your hotel or resort in Subic, why not get some exercise at a world-class sports and recreation complex.

Here you’ll find many of the athletic courts and facilities are covered, or indoors to protect you from the sun and weather. You can play tennis or band mitten in covered elegance and even basketball and boxing in an air conditioned gymnasium.

Why not try the rubber-based track and field facility for high-tech nightly walks, jogs or runs with your friends and family members. This surface actually helps protect your skeletal-structure from too-much damage as you jog or run the track. Also included are various athletic pits and facilities for full-scale track and field activities such as the long-jump.

EL KABAYO RIDING STABLES

El Kabayo Riding Stables Subic BayRide some quality imported horses from the United States, Argentina and Australia at El Kabayo. You can ride a thoroughbred, saddle-bred, or a quarter-horse if you prefer. If you are the type who simply admire horses but you are afraid to ride an animal weighing 4 times your weight and with a mind of its own, then you should also visit, simply to admire the beautiful, magnificent breeds and to get a feel of a peaceful and serene U.S. style horse ranch/equestrian facility.

El Kabayo offers simple riding within the safe confines of the area, or, for more experienced riders, you can venture-out beyond the facility into the Subic foothills and forested areas. There are even guided rides to the Kabayo Falls and a long extended trip through the Subic Forests and Jungles to the Subic Bay waters.

For those who have always wanted to learn to ride horses, the climb on the back and let an expert instructor teach you all the tricks.

HILL 394

Found in the eastern park of the Ilanin Forest Park, is a place called Hill 394. A strange name for a location of isolation and beauty, but it was named such for a good reason. Back in the old U.S. military occupation days, this hill was used as a secret, hidden helicopter landing spot. Named for its elevation above sea level, 394 feet, today it’s an observation spot where you can see over 50 species of birds and more than 150 species of vibrantly green trees.

Here you’ll find panoramic views of lush forests and the Bataan and Zambales Mountains. For those interested in a little exercise and fresh Subic air, you can take the 45 to 60 minute trail hike to the top of the hill. For those wanting to experience this beauty without the work of a hike, a slightly-rough, remote drive in your car takes you to the top for some restful camping or simply to experience a great picnic spot.

SUBIC INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY

Formula One Car - Subic International RacewayCompleted in 1994, situated beside the Subic International Airport, only 15 minutes away from the Subic Central Business District, you’ll find a track worthy of local and international races, a road-race course 2.9 kilometer long with 12 turns. This is a familiar racetrack to racers from the Philippines and even many foreign countries.

Types of races held here include, Formula 3, motorcycles, Philippine National Touring Car series and SVI Grand Prix. Most races are three day events with a typical season encompassing 12 race events. The track is host to the Annual Philippine Motor sports Festival in November.

For those who have always wanted to learn to be a racecar driver, you will find two racing schools using the raceway as their base of operation and training track. The Ramirez’ Racing School utilizes your own vehicle as the race car and teaches you the skills needed to perform in a race environment. Tuason Racing School, using specially equipped and race-ready cars to take you to the next step of racing.

Operated by Sports Values, Inc. and governed by Automotive Association of the Philippines (AAP) and Federacion Internationale de Automotive (FIA), this racing facility in just one more example of an unexpected, world-class Subic experience.

Call 047-252-9069 for additional information about Subic International Raceway.
Subic Le-Mans Go Cart Track

SUBIC LE-MAN’S GO CART TRACK

So, you want to be a race driver but you don’t want to risk your life. Why not try a smaller version of a race car that is much closer to the ground and yet still exciting enough for those wanting the feel of a quick-turning, fast moving vehicle under-foot. Located next door to the Magic Lagoon Park Grill and Bar, along the main road, Rizal Ave., leading into the Freeport, here you can pretend you are Mario Andretti and get all of those frustrated-racer anxieties out.




*More Subic information on my next post..


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I really love Subic! There are lots of things you can discover and learn. I already take a peek on how to survive in a jungle in Subic (JEST Camp) when I was in grade school and it's very cool, fun, amazing and the native Aetas are very creative on how to make cooking utensils on a bamboo. They also cook on bamboos and it's very delcious. You must try and see Subic bay, Philippines.

Resource of Asia's Pearl of the Orient Travel Blog

Wonderful Subic Bay

There is literally so much going on in this forested, bayside retreat offering panoramic views, restful-splendor, fun-filled adventure, ecological-enlightenment, and awesome-beauty, that you’ll find you need a week or two to truly experience it all. From jet-skiing and parasailing in the bay to eco-tourism and jungle adventures with Siberian Tigers in the mountains, you simply have to experience Subic to believe it. More than 8 million tourists make the trip to Subic yearly; why aren’t you one of them?

In Subic you can, swim, dive, kayak, jet ski, sailboat, wind-surf, parasail, yacht, fish, hike, horseback ride, target practice, go nature trekking, marvel at centuries-old trees, bird-watch, bat-gaze, butterfly hunt, watch/learn auto racing, race go-carts, enjoy casino action, play tennis, golf, bike, bowl, play pool, shop, enjoy an amusement park, and, one of my favorite treats, indulge your pallet in a variety of interesting cuisine.

For those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle, you can find interesting bars and night-spots along the romantic boardwalk featuring quality entertainment; test your vocal chords at local karaoke spots, or simply go to a local concert hall or cinema to catch the latest flick.

For 94 years, this former pride of the U.S. Navy, with its long-status as the largest naval installation outside the United States is now a recreational, entertainment and food wonderland.

With over 1000 businesses employing over 50,000 people, the industry and business backbone in Subic is very-much a part of the picture. Yet you’ll find that these companies are managed under tough environmentally-friendly developmental rules that allow industry to blend with nature in a combination ecosystem/business climate unique to Subic. It seems as though the conversion from a military base to a recreation and business haven with strict environmental controls is working for Subic.

In Subic, you can’t help but appreciate the wild orchids and ferns along wonderfully tree-lined streets. You’ll also be surprised to see kingfishers, orioles, wild ducks and sea eagles in the Triboa Bay area. Many people take pleasure in the marvelous pristine beaches and ocean-resort areas. If you are into diving, then there is probably no place better to experience old shipwrecks than in the waters around Subic with over 20 historic vessels sunk in the bay.

If you are concerned about emergency, safety and protective service, while you frolic and play, then worry no more. With a 911 emergency response system providing fire, security and ambulance services 24 hours a day 7 days a week, you can enjoy all of your adventurous activities knowing help is but a phone call away. In addition, Subic maintains one of the strictest police and traffic safety programs in the entire country; as a result, Subic enjoys one of the lowest crime rates in all the Philippines.

EXTREME ADVENTURE PARK

If you are looking for some extreme fun and excitement, then Extreme Adventure is the place for you. This place requires a degree of courage and is popular for enforcing teambuilding skills in groups and amongst work associates. This is the type of training that is normally reserved for military groups.

Extreme Adventure is synonymous with extreme adrenaline! If you’ve got the courage, Extreme Adventure has the facilities, trainers and equipment. This facility is not for the faint at heart, in fact, you get to do things normally reserved for elite military groups or for those on the popular T.V. show Fear Factor.

But you don’t need to be a group in order to avail yourself of this experience. Don’t worry, the instructors and guides are highly trained professions and the equipment is high-quality, high tensile strength and well-maintained. So, whether you are a group, family or just a thrill-seeking individual, go for the adventure of a lifetime with Extreme Adventure.

A Few of these Adventures are Listed below.

The most popular by far is the incredible Slide for Life adventure. After securing your harness, you climb up a stairway towards the top of a large rainforest tree. Then your guide will secure you to a system of high-strength cables suspended between massive trees in the Jungle of Subic. You are then in for the ride of your life as you find yourself flying through the air, propelled only by gravity, traversing the cable system, skirting tree limbs with the wind in your face. You end-up at the top of another huge tree at the opposite end of an immense section of jungle. But wait, you are stuck in the middle of the jungle with no way down from this new perch. Guess what, you get to do it again for a total of three exhilarating slides, each one an excitingly different, new adventure.

If you want a realistic Indiana Jones experience, try the Hanging Bridge. Here you walk along an old, cable-suspended, wooden bridge high above the jungles of Subic. You feel the breeze of fresh Subic air in your face as you sway back and forth attempting to make it to the other end. Onward brave soul!

The Wall is an endurance and bravery test where you and your teammates climb a large scalable wall with pegs designed for climbing. It takes perseverance, skill and technique to make it to the other side. If you are part of a team, the objective is to give hints and positive reinforcement, to the other team members, so as to work together in order for each member to make it to the other side of the wall. This is a classic military exercise that you’ve probably seen in numerous movies.


*More information about Subic on my next post..

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Subic is such a wonderful tourist spot in the Philippines. I love going to Subic because it just takes 3 hours for me to get there. Usually I go there to take a look on their beautiful sunset at Subic boardwalk. It's just so relaxing. When I was young, I haven't visited their Extreme Adventure Park it sounds fun, maybe next time I'll try it.

Resource of Asia's Pearl of the Orient Travel Blog

"Hidden Tropical Jewel and the Philippine Surfing Capital"

Surigao del Norte is a medley island in the northeastern tip of Mindanao. A province that has managed to preserve its natural marvel through the years. On the eastern side of the province is Siargao Island, a hidden tropical jewel of the Pacific that hosts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and home of wave surfing and the famous CLOUD 9, the latest sport and tourist attraction to take the country by storm It is the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. The best known surfing break now with a world reputation of being in the top Surfing Waves in the world, is nick-named "Cloud Nine". But there are literally scores of breaks down this coast, and every time a surfing expedition is mounted in the area, more new breaks are being discovered.

Siargao is a tear-drop shaped island situated 800 kilometers southeast of Manila in the province of Surigao del Norte. It has a land mass of approximately 437 kilometers. It has a land mass of approximately 437 kilometers. The east coast is relatively straight with one deep inlet-Port Pilar with a coastline marked by a succession of reefs, small points and white sandy beaches. There are similar neighboring islands and islets with similar landforms. The reefs and points are excellent for picking up any swell that comes along turning into clean, fast waves. The Island's Pacific-facing reefs are situated on the edge of the Philippine Trench, and the extremely deep offshore waters guarantee the ocean swells have undiluted power when they encounter the many coral and rock reefs, giving Siargao excellent surfing conditions, particularly during the southwest "habagat" monsoon from August to November, when the prevailing wind is offshore.

Siargao Island, faces the Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Deep, the second deepest water in the world, at more than 11 km below sea level. The area is pure tropics with the plenty activities including snorkeling, island hopping, waterfalls, swimming holes and of course awesome waves and friendly locals.

This right-breaking reef wave is the site of the annual Siargao Cup, a domestic and international surfing competition sponsored by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte. The wave was discovered by travelling surfers in the late 1980's, and named and made well-known by American photographer John S Callahan, who published the first major feature on Siargao Island in the US based SURFER Magazine in March 1993, and hundreds of photos in many other books and magazines since. Callahan has returned to the island many times since his first visit in 1992, and his efforts to photograph and publish surfing related and general location material from Siargao islandin books and magazines around the world has put the island on the international map and drawn thousands of surfers and tourists to Siargao island.

There are several other excellence waves on Siargao and nearby islands, but Cloud 9 has received more publicity than any other wave in the area, indeed in the Philippines as a whole. It is the only wave in the area easy to get to without a boat, leading to overcrowding and the nickname of "Crowd 9" among surfers worldwide as keen foreign and locally owned accommodation and tourist facilities attempt to profit from the magazine publicity and the annual arrival of visitors drawn by the Siargao Cup competition in September.

Siargao Islands contain the biggest mangrove forest reserves in Mindanao on the opposite coastline. Long stretches of wetlands equally indicate potentials for commercial seaweed propagation. Siargao Island is greatly influenced by the winds and currents coming uninterrupted from the Pacific Ocean, intensified by the Mindanao current running westward through the Siargao Strait.

Offshore, a classic tropical island lay secluded within its surrounding coral reef and the dozen coconut palms dressed in the center circle of the island crackle gently in the morning breeze. Off to the right, well within the massive coastal reef, lay a shining white sand bar some 200 meters long, maintained by a group of some forty black-headed terns that stood chattering among themselves at the waters edge. The tide of Siargao is diurnal with tidal curves typically present especially on the east coast of the island.

How to Get There

Manila - Cebu City - Surigao City -Siargao Island

Manila - Surigao City
Air via Asian Spirit
Sea by SuperFerry, Sulpicio
Land by Philtranco Bus

Manila to Cebu
Air via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines
Sea by SuperFerry, Sulpicio


Cebu City - Siargao Island
Air via SEAIR


Cebu City - Surigao City
Air via Asian Spirit
Sea via Cokaliong ,SuperFerry, Sulpicio


Surigao City - Dapa (entry point Siargao Island)
Sea via Fastcraft Aska and Fortune Jet


Dapa - Gen. Luna (beach & surfing area)
Land by van / motorbike / jeepney


Sayak (siargao airport) - Gen. Luna (beach & surfing area)
Land by van / motorbike / jeepney


Manila - Butuan City - Surigao City - Siargao Island

Manila to Butuan
Air via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines


Manila to Cebu City
Air via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air PhilippinesSea by SuperFerry, Sulpicio


Cebu City to Butuan City
Sea by SuperFerry, Sulpicio, Cebu Ferries


Butuan City - Surigao City
Land by Private Van, Bus, Jeepney

Surigao City - Dapa (entry point Siargao Island)
Sea via Fastcraft Aska and Fortune Jet


Dapa - Gen. Luna (beach & surfing area)
Land by van / motorbike / jeepney


Sayak (siargao airport) - Gen. Luna (beach & surfing area)
Land by van / motorbike / jeepney


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If you love surfing you can do it in Siargao. It has a beautiful beach with breath taking reefs and sceneries. You'll enjoy here in Siargao at Surigao del Norte, Philippines, Asia's Pearl of the Orient. Surf now!

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Corregidor Island

Corregidor is a tadpole shaped island on the mouth of Manila Bay. When the Philippines was yet a colony of Spain, Corregidor IslandCorregidor served as a fortress; an early warning outpost to warn Manila of any hostile ships; a customs outpost; and a correctional (prison). Because of the corrective effect of hard labor on prisoners, the island was named Corregidor, from the Spanish word "corregir" meaning the corrector. Corregidor is also known as "the rock" because of its rocky landscape and heavy fortifications.

Corregidor island is approximately 4 kilometers long, 1.5 kilometers at its widest and a total area of approximately 3 square miles. At the tip of the tail, 2 kilometers south, lies Caballo island. Both Corregidor and Caballo islands are part of the province of Cavite.

Corregidor History

In 1898, after almost 400 years of colonization, the Philippines was ceded by Spain to the United States after payment of US$20 million. Soon after, the Americans used Corregidor Eternal Flame MonumentCorregidor as an army post and named the it, Fort Mills in honor of Brig. Gen. Samuel M. Mills. The Americans built bomb-shelters, concrete emplacements, a hospital and trails around the island. In 1922 construction of the Malinta Tunnel started to protect military installations and wares in case of war. In addition, 56 Coastal guns, 13 anti-aircraft artillery batteries and 10 searchlights was installed.


In 1941, hours after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor, the Japanese invaded the Philippines. Corregidor served as the last resistance point of the retreating Filipino and American forces fighting the Japanese. Gen. Douglas MacArthur used Corregidor island as a base for the Allied forces form 1941 to 1942. Corregidor also served as the temporary shelter for the government of President Manuel L. Quezon and his family for two months (December 24, 1941 to February 19, 1942) prior to the eventual exile of the Philippine Commonwealth government to the United States. After the fall of Bataan to on April 9, 1942 to the Japanese, Corregidor surrendered after holding out for 27 days.



Corregidor Today

Today, Corregidor is a historical site and a tourist destination. The island is divided into sections, the "head" is called the "Topside". This is the main part of Corregidor where the headquarters, barracks, war memorial, lighthouse, Eternal Flame, parade grounds, golf course and all the major emplacements are located here. Then there is the "Middleside", where the campsite, aviary, bird park and some ruins are located. And the tail end of Corregidor island is called the "Bottomside". The hotel, administrative building, Gen. MacArthur Park, Gen. Wainwright Park and San Jose Chapel can be found here.

Corregidor RuinsMany of the war ruined buildings have never been reconstructed, and instead was left as is, so as to serve as a memorial to the Filipino & American solders who died here in World War II. Corregidor today is not only a place to contemplate and learn history, it Malinta Tunnel of Corregidoris also a place to relax and enjoy. There are many things to see and do. A highlight of a visit to Corregidor is the audio-visual presentation at the Malinta Tunnel of the events that occurred during World War II, including the departure of President Quezon and Gen. Douglas MacArthur on a submarine from Corregidor to Australia - Quezon and his family exiled to the United States during the war.

One can also avail of the island tour of Corregidor on a motorized boat or do some hiking on through the hills and forest and discover some landmark ruins along the way. For those who will stay overnight at Corregidor, take the night tour with a walk around of the Malinta Tunnel, it is different and more stimulating.

Statue of Gen. Douglas MacArthur at Corregidor, PhilippinesPlaces of Interest in Corregidor:

● Malinta Tunnel

● Pacific War Memorial

● Filipino Heroes Memorial

● Spanish lighthouse

● Gun emplacements

● Eternal Flame of Freedom

● Aviary and Theme Park

● Filipino-American Friendship Park

● Barracks ruins

Where to stay in Corregidor:

● Corregidor Hotel is a comfortable place to stay for visitors and tourist who would like to relax after a long day visiting the sites. The hotel has a pool, souvenir shop, bar and restaurant. For those who still have energy to spend, the hotel has tennis and basketball courts. Corregidor Hotel is walking distance to the North Dock, wharf and beach.

How to go to Corregidor:

● An air-conditioned ferry departs daily at 8:00AM from the ferry terminal at the CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Manila and returns in the afternoon. Day tour includes the ferry transfers, fees, lunch and guided tour of Corregidor. Extended or overnight stays can be arranged with the ferry's operator, Sun Cruises at telephone # (632) 834-6857 and 831-8140. Package day tour is priced P1,690/pax (as of August 2007).


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Corregidor is one of the most historical places in the Philippines which you should visit. You'll enjoy every bit of this historical place aside from that they have great restaurant, hotel and beach you can enjoy.

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