"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!

Resource of Asia's Pearl of the Orient Travel Blog

The Best of Marinduque

Marinduque is a treasure trove of exquisite natural beauty. This island of 370 square miles is dotted with various white sand beaches, well-preserved diving sites, enchanting caves, rejuvenating hot springs and tranquil islets that provide for the perfect getaway. The best beaches in island can be found in Boac, in the barangays of Balaring, Caganhao, Cawit, Ihatub and Laylay. The fine white sand beach in Barangay Poctoy in Torrijos town is breath-taking, as well as the beaches at Maniwaya Island in Sta.Cruz town. Most of these beaches are situated in local resorts and spas which offer rooms for tourists at affordable rates. Some resorts also have equipment for watersports such as snorkeling, windsurfing and diving.


Being an island of volcanic origin, hot springs are a common feature in the island. The hot springs of Malbog in Buenavista town offers tourists a rejuvenating experience similar to that of Beppu in Japan and Los Banos in Laguna. Hot spring resorts in the area offer swimming pools warmed by hot water from underground, cottages, rooms and camping grounds for campers. The waters from these springs are said to be of medicinal qualities, perfect for health conscious individuals. If you are not into springs, you can also try the island’s crystal clear waterfalls. Bulusukan Falls in Barangay Bagtingon, Buenavista is nestled in a natural forest inhabited by endemic butterflies. Paadjao Cascades in Barangay Bocboc, Mogpog, meanwhile offers a trek to the source of its refreshing water.

Caves are also a natural feature of the island. Spelunking enthusiasts may find Bathala Caves in Sta. Cruz and Tarug Caves in Mogpog a thrilling experience as the local legend add to the enchantment of these subterranean masterpieces. For diving enthusiasts, the best dive sites in the island can be found in Buenavista town in the vicinity of the Tres Reyes Islands, three uninhabited islets named after the three Magi. Another majestic dive site is the waters in the vicinity of Polo, Maniwaya and Mongpong Islands in Sta. Cruz. For history buffs, you might find a tour of the various Spanish era churches, the site of the Battle of Pulang Lupa and the Luzon Datum of 1911 (a 1906 USGS marker signifying the center of the Philippines) intriguing.


Philippines Marinduque Minuaya Island

Minuaya, Tropical Island: An Island off the northeastern coast of Marinduque. This island is in the Mongpong passage — the body of water between Marinduque and the town of Gen. Luna, province of Quezon. Mongpong pass is just east of Tayabas Bay, and just north of the Sibuyan Channel — north of the Visayan group of islands.
Photo by storm-crypt


Why Not Go


If you are a tourist looking for good company and awesome nightlife in a tourist destination, then Marinduque is not the place for you. There are no clubs, bars and discos in the island to enjoy. There is limited access to water sports as not all resorts offer such amenities. If you can find a resort that has one then good for you; But if not then you might want to consider before going. The roads are not good in Marinduque although it stretches through out the whole island. If you plan to bring a vehicle or commute, you might find the land and sea travel uneasy.


Why Go


This is the closest thing to Boracay or Palawan that you can find affordable and closest to Manila. With the wide array of activities in store for you, you can’t get wrong with your decision. Accommodations are flexible as you have a spectrum of places to choose from beginning with the affordable to the high-end. The locals are friendly and easy to get along with – a big advantage for those who want to embrace to local history and culture.


Best Time to Visit


For most tourists who want to see the Moriones Festival, the best time to go to Marinduque is during the Lenten Season which usually starts in the Philippines at the last week of March or the first week of April. The height of the festival usually occurs around this time wherein all the six municipalities showcase their own version of the festival. After Lent, the months of April and May are also witness to other festivals such as the Kangga, the Gasang-Gasang and the May Flower Festival. History and culture appear more vibrant and colorful at this point in time. Also, airline and ferry fares usually go cheaper at this time of the year to cater to the influx of tourists.


Where to Stay


There is a spectrum of places to choose from in Marinduque, from the high-end to the affordable. For tourists who just want to splurge on their money, try the newly-opened 6-star Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa located at Elephant Island (formerly Isla Perro) in Buenavista town. Guests are treated in this resort in a very Mediterranean way that resembles the vibe of the Greek island of Santorini. Amenities include seaside pools and Jacuzzis, a 9-hole golf course, a function/dining hall and bar. From the Marinduque airport, guests are transported to the island via a private yacht or helicopter. Rooms and terraces cost from $350-1,100 (food not included). For reservations you can call (+632) 817-4211/ (+632) 328-8831 or email info@bellaroccaresorts.com. For tourists who are keen on keeping their budget, there are affordable choices. Eastpoint Hotel by the Sea: (042) 332-22-29 and the Boac Hotel: (042) 332-1121 or 332-2065 (both in Boac) offer air-conditioned rooms with toilet and bath, WI-FI service, function halls and coffee shops. Rooms should be around P600-1500 a night. There are also other affordable resorts, inns and hotels in all six municipalities.


Where & What to Eat


There are many restaurants, cafes and bakeshops in Boac, Sta. Cruz and Torrijos that serve Filipino food. Most hotels also do catering to guests for an additional fee. You can try their own version of dinuguan (pork meat cooked in chicken/pig blood) which includes a hint of coconut milk. Try the tasty uraro (arrow root) cookies as snacks and souvenirs. But for visitors with a very discriminating palate, two restaurants in Gasan offer a variety of dishes. Barbarossa Pub (042) 342-1383 serves international cuisine while Ristorante D’I Jose (042)342-1426 serves Italian and Chinese aside from the usual Filipino cuisine.


Nightlife


There are various drinking establishments in Marinduque especially in Boac that mostly cater to the locals. There are also karaoke pubs scattered around town. But there no clubs and bars that feature dancing and revelry. So if you are looking for nightlife here, you might find yourself disappointed.


My to do List

1. See the Moriones Festival and don the costumes of the Roman soldiers.
2. Go diving at Poctoy Beach in Torrijos.
3. For mountaineers, scale the heights of the tallest mountain here, Mt. Malindig.
4. Go island hopping at Balanacan Bay in Mompog.
5. Snorkel around the waters of the Tres Reyes Islands.
6. Dip into the hot springs of Malbog in Buenavista.
7. Join the ritual putong and discover its healing effects.
8. Enjoy the exclusive first class treatment of Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa.
9. Buy uraro cookies as souvenirs.
10. Take a historical tour of the Marinduque churches.


Stay Away From


Marinduque is one of the safest places in the country with an almost zero crime rate. However, this no reason to don your prized possessions in public so refrain from doing so. At the port of Balanacan in Mompog, avoid entrusting your luggage to non-official luggage handlers as you might end up losing your luggage. When traveling, never trust drivers who offer you a ride around Marinduque for a steep price. Always ask and negotiate for fares before agreeing to board a vehicle. Never leave your valuables inside your hotel room when you plan to go out and stroll.


Getting There


BY AIR – Zest Air (formerly Asian Spirit) offers affordable flights from Manila to Marinduque four times a week with discounted fees ranging from almost P500-P1300 and regular rates for P1400-P4200. Travel time is around 45 minutes.

BY LAND AND SEA – From Araneta Bus Terminal in Cubao take buses that leave for Talao-Talao Port in Lucena City, Quezon. The fare should be around P140-P160. If you are bound for the eastern side of the island, take a ferry for Buyabod Port in Sta. Cruz. If you are bound for the western side of the island, take a ferry for Balanacan Port in Mompog. Fares should be around P350-500. If you plan to take a vehicle, you can load it up a roll on-roll off (RORO) ferry. Montenegro Shipping has a 4-storey RORO that leaves Lucena for Cawit port in Boac daily.

BY BUS (DIRECT ROUTE) – Jac Liner Incorporated, the biggest bus operator in Southern Tagalog offers direct bus routes from their terminals in Kamias, Quezon City and Buendia, Pasay to Buenavista, Marinduque. For reservations call (02) 404-2073.


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Wow! There are kots of things to do in Marinduque. I just saw Moriones Festival in television and I really wanted to witness one. Philippines is very blessed to have such beautiful places to visit and lucky to have rich cultures. I hope you can visit Marinduque soon, I know you'll love it!

Resources of Philippines Travel Sites

Bicol Region Philippines Travel Guide, Destinations and Attractions

Bicol Travel and Destinations - Mayon VolcanoThe Bicol Region, Also known as Region V, is located at the southeastern most peninsula of Luzon in the Philippines. Bicol Region has 6 provinces namely Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate and Sorsogon. Bicol is one of the famous tourist destinations in the Philippines. Bicol has a lot of beautiful scenic view to offer to visitors and tourist. The world famous Mt. Mayon Volcano in which has a perfectly shaped cone. Bicol is also known for its exotic and beautiful white sand beaches magnificent world-class diving spots. You can also find in Bicol the tiniest fish in the world. Well of course you have to dive to the lake to see it.

Bicol is also rich in cultural and architectural heritage. The structure of the buildings like churches are dated back from the the Spanish Period. For nature lovers, Bicol has much to offer. There are many beautiful natural scenery around Bicol like mountains, volcanoes, lakes, hot springs, rivers, caves and waterfalls. Bicol Region has many landmarks that are also tourist attractions that this Region can offer to visitors.

Bicol is a mixture of dynamic culture, resilient and religious people, and literate workforce. Today, Bicol Region is identified in the map as a tourism and maritime zone due to its accessibility to Manila and Visayan Provinces. It is very accessible to Manila and the rest of the places in Luzon by land, air, rail and sea.

Bicol Region Tourist Attraction

Bicol Travel WaterfallsMayon Volcano: Mt. Mayon is one of the famous tourist attraction in Philippine and Asia. The volcano is world's famous because of it's nearly perfect cone. Mayon Volcano is located north of Legaspi City. Mt. Mayon is one of the most visited tourist destination because of its enchating scenic view. The volcano stands majestically at 7,946 ft. and the base is 10 km in radius. From atop, you can see tha magnificent view of the Albay gulf and the other nearby towns.

Puraran Beach: The white sand beach is internationally known as "Majestic" in which this is the site for surfboard surfing. The beach is so magnificent and makes it so inviting. Pururan has been improve and develop that it has beautiful cottages, dining hall and a surfing area for sports enthusiasts. The season for surfing is from October to January.

Busay Falls: Busay Falls has a seven-tiered cascading white foam that it is considered as one of the highest waterfalls in the country. It is 800 ft from the top. Busay falls is accessible only by foot.

Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave: It is believed that this cave is the home of the native in the area a long time ago. The cave is a natural tunnel like structure. Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave is one of the natural tourist attraction in Albay.

Calabidongan Caves: The grotto-like formation inside is so enchanting in which it amazes visitors and tourist. The cave is also known as the "Caves of the Bats". The cave is good for trekking inside.

Daraga Catholic Church: It is an 18th century church in which was built by Franciscan missionaries in 1773. The church is highly regarded by art enthusiast and considered above standard because of it's rich baroque architecture and the structure is huge.

Camalig Catholic Church: A missionary church which was built out of volcanic rocks. Tourist and visitors come here to see the relics from the Hoyop-hoyopan caves. The archeological findings amazes the visitors and tourist because it depicts the historical origins of the people. The relic shows the early Malaysian influence through the burial jars excavated. One of the famous tourist attractions.

Barcelona Church: The church was beautiful built coral reefs were used to form the walls. The enchanting carvings on the coral reef fa�ade makes the church a priceless relic. The church was built in 1874.

Bulusan Lake: Also known as the "Switzerland of the Orient" Located at the center of the Bulusan National Park.


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Fantastic! Mayon Volcano has a perfect cone and it's terrific! They have lots of tourist destinations you can visit and enjoy. Asia's Pearl of the Orient, Philippines, is very fortunate to have these exquisite sceneries.

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Batangas: Laiya Beach, San Juan

At the southeastern tip of Batangas lies a seven kilometer strip of white sand beach situated along the stretching coast of Sigayan Bay and Verde Island passage. The place is nestled behind the peaks of Mt. Daguldol and home to several hiking destinations, such as Naambon falls and Mainit Pulang Bato. Because of its proximity to cities of Manila, Batangas and Quezon, this beach called Laiya became a popular destination for weekend retreats and corporate excursions.

Numerous resorts from upscale to budget accomodation which are mainly known to local tourists are visibly located along the wide strip of Laiya beach. They all come to life during holidays and weekends when tourists from the wide metropolis come to reatreat from their frenzied daily life. It does not take away its appeal, but, for people who may want to witness this hidden beauty must visit Laiya during low season, when the beach is calmer and much more silent. And on peak season (December to June), it is highly advised to call for accomodation few weeks in advance to avoid losing chances on room reservations.

Aside from swimming, snorkeling, boating, and kayaking, not much water activities are available in Laiya. Diving and other hi-tech water activities are not yet facilitated unless interested tourists request to be chartered to Anilao, a diving sanctuary at the other side of the coast, or to the famous diving destination- Verde Island. Although Laiya’s main attraction is its long strip of white beach, other sportif options can be found in its interiors, such as its hidden coves, falls and thick forested mountains where trails have been appreciated best for mountainbiking and trekking.

If you come to stay for a few days, don’t expect “a la carte” in your resort’s restaurant. Dining is mostly buffet. A few foreign dishes is served but the majority of eating pleasure in most resorts is Filipino. Options such as bringing a picnic basket and renting an open shed is enough for day trippers. Those who don’t have time to prepare, however, may avail some of the resorts’ lunch packages which are already inclusive of shed and entrance fee.

To retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city and to enjoy the fresh breeze and warm blue water of the sea, coming to Laiya is a perfect idea for weekend retreats. The beach is wide, all covered with white sand, and the water is warm; wonderful enough even for a short refreshing trip.

To get there, take South Luzon Tollway, and exit at Batangas Lucena exit. Drive along the national road until you see a board “Star Tollway” turn right at Star Tollway (Batangas Expressway) up to Lipa Exit. Then head towards Lipa.

Few meters from the Star Tollway exit, you will see De La Salle University Lipa on the left side of the road. Several meters from De La Salle, watch out for “Y” junction (where McDonalds is at the center). Take the road at the right that heads to Lipa town proper. Then follow the road as it merges with another road at the right (where monument is) and watch out for Mercury Drug. Turn right at this street then straightly take this road towards Rosario and Padre Garcia.

About 8.5km from Lipa, there will be a junction that leads to Padre Garcia. From Padre Garcia, Turn left towards Rosario. From the town center of Rosario, Turn left (where South Star Drug Store is) then follow this road until San Juan. Once in san Juan, turn right at the street where municipal hall is (just accross basketall court), and upon entering the road, you will see billboards indicating beach resorts of Laiya. Follow this road until you reach the unconcreted part. This means you are in the vicinity. From this point and the succeeding distance, you will see a lot of resort signboards along the road. All of them lead to resorts along the beaches of Aplaya, Laiya, and Hugom.


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What a nice beach! It's very relaxing and the white beach is so amazing. There are lots of things you can do in Laiya Beach in San Juan, Batangas. The Asia's Pearl of the Orient is really a blessing to have such wonderful and beautiful tourist spots.

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Tagaytay: Taal Lake and Volcano

Tagaytay is located south of Manila just about 2 to 3 hours drive. This city is famous not only for Taal Lake and Volcano but also for sweet tropical fruits. Taal volcano is one of the smallest volcanoes in the world. However, this volcano is different because it sits in a lake and there is also a small body of water in the crater which looks like a small lake too. Further, everyone seems to appreciate the view and beauty of Taal because the city of Tagaytay is located just above it which is like a huge viewing deck. I've visited this city many years ago and I am very excited to see it once again. First stop was Taal Vista Hotel. This hotel is famous not only for its accommodations but also for its viewing deck. Although we do not intend to check-in, they allow non-hotel guests to get inside the viewing deck as long as you pay their parking fee. I've noticed some major changes in the hotel amenities and it is now more spacious and guest friendly. The view of Taal lake and volcano from this hotel deck is breathtaking. This is one of the best spots for a painter if he wishes to paint the spectacular scenery of Taal. We took snapshots and souvenir photos here. Then we just enjoy and appreciate the view. We then went to the Park in the Sky. This park on the other side of the city was once very famous because it was built by Imelda Marcos to entertain her guests. It has a very nice view of the lake and volcano as well although it is more elevated. Just under the mountain park, I noticed that there are new subdivisions and villages built sorrounded with lots of trees. There are also several souvenir shops. It is noticeable though that the park is less maintained and needs more work.

For lunch, we drove back to the touristy area where lots of restaurants, cafes, and bars are located. We found a nice japanese restaurant with a nice view of Taal. After the meal, we all agreed we went to the right place. We had good food and great view. Just a few steps away is Starbucks where we had our coffee.

We had wanted to cross the lake and go to the volcano. However, we were told we need more
time to do that. Instead, we drove down to the lake side town of Talisay, a 45 minute drive from Tagaytay to see the lake up close. As we got closer to the lake side, lots of people met our car showing their rates for a boat ride to the volcano. Although we have not visited the volcano itself, getting into the lake side and seeing the volcano closer was worth it.


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I love tagaytay! The weather is cold, the sceneries are the best, you'll feel very relax. Most Filipinos go to Tagaytay when they wanted to relieve stress after working and to bond with their families, because Tagaytay is very near in Manila and you can go there in the morning and leave on the afternoon. Very accessible. I just love looking at the lake and the volcano. It's so beautiful. Philippines is truly Asia's Pearl of the Orient!

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Baguio City

Main thoroughfare of Baguio CityBaguio City is the summer capital of the Philippines. Located in northern Luzon, Baguio City was established by the Americans in 1909, It is sited about 1,500 meters above sea level, high in the Cordillera mountain range giving the city an almost temperate climate.


Baguio is a favorite vacation destination of Filipinos & foreign tourist specially during summer because of its year-round cool climate. It is also known as an educational center with its 4 universities and several colleges and institutes in Baguio City’s 49 square kilometer area.


Boat ride at the Baguio parkThe centrepiece of Baguio City is the Burnham Park which features a rectangular lagoon and open fields. The eastern part of the city is dominated by high-class residential areas surrounding the Camp John Hay, a former American military recreation zone now turned into a tourist residential-commercial area.

Places of Interest:


The Cathedral at Baguio CityBaguio City Cathedral is a majestic church built on top of a hill, and is seen from many parts of the city. On the right side of the cathedral is Session Road. It is the main avenue of the city and is its commercial center. Along the main street and side streets are numerous shops, restaurants, and billiard and duckpin bowling alleys. Session Road is also the place visited by foreign tourists who wish to enjoy the city's nightlife.


Hillside of the Mine's View ParkMines View Park, located at the extreme northeast of Baguio City boasts a spectacular view of Benguet's gold and copper mines.


Camp John Hay, once a military recreational camp of the Americans during World War II is now a popular tourist destination for people who wish to see the pine forests in Baguio City. It also boasts of a sprawling country club with a full 18-hole golf course as well as many trendy restaurants and a rather nice hotel called The Manor.


Itogon Wood Carver's Village - fills three kilometers of independent indigenous wood carvers. The works of these carvers range from very small figurines to huge statues.


The Orchidarium is a showcase for the various breeds of flowers and plants that are The president's official residence in Baguio Citygrown in the region.


The Mansion House - the official summer residence of the President of the Philippines. One can leisurely stroll around its manicured lawns.


Baguio Botanical Garden - also known as the Igorot Village contains many Igorot houses amidst various flora and fauna that grows in the cool climate of the city. Tourists can usually take pictures with the Igorot tribesmen dressed in their traditional costume.


Mary Knoll Ecological Sanctuary is a haven for free minds and bodies. The Eco-tour refreshes the eyes with nature's feast of flowers. The gallery inspires one's creativity.


You can get to Baguio City:


By Land - The three main access roads leading to Baguio from the lowlands are Kennon Road, Marcos Highway, and Naguilian Highway. Kennon Road road is the fastest route to Baguio but is the most dangerous with frequent landslides during the rainy season. Marcos Highway and Naguilian Highway are more roundabout routes but are much safer than Kennon Road and are the only routes permitted to buses and trucks. Major Bus lines from Manila go straight to Baguio City all hours of the day.


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Baguio City is such a beautiful place! I've been there and I enjoyed it! They have very nice products and souvenirs, mostly are hand made products. Baguio City's weather is great especially during summer season beacuse Philippines experiences very hot temperature during summer. If you're done visiting Philippines beaches (which is awesome!) you can also enjoy Baguio City's tourist spots.

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Palawan Underground River - Philippines

The Palawan Underground River National Park (one day on foot and a half-day if you go by banca). The National Park covers 5,000 hectares of well-preserved forest. The underground river is about eight kilometers long beneath the cliffs, four kilometers of which can be covered by banca with a guide, equipped with a kerosene touch so you can admire the stalactites and stalagmites. The river can be reached from Sabang Palawan by banca (one hour), but if you have the time, the walk across the National Park is quite pleasant and relatively easy.
The Palawan Underground River is believe to be one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world which features cathedral-like caverns and domes. The stalactites and stalagmites formation resembles like religious images, fruits and birds. Truly, an admirable underworld that project the omnipotence of the Creator over human hands. The Palawan Underground River is home to other cove dwelling fauna.

Puerto Princesa Palawan Subterranean River National Park was declared by Proclamation No. 835 on March 26, 1971. It is located in the West Coast of Palawan, 81 km north of Puerto Princesa City Palawan. The land form in the park are associated with rocky mountains (of marble and limestone) running from north to south. Two-thirds of the area is covered by lush tropical rainforest from the shoreline to the highest peak, and one-third is thinly vegetated karst limestone. The vegetation types include lowland forest (often with 35 m. canopy), coastal forest and karst forest.

This Philippines National Park is currently a popular destination for visiting bird-watchers, and most of the threatened and restricted range birds of the Palawan Endemic Bird Area have been recorded here. Several threatened species are regularly seen in the extensive lowland forests and substantial number of Palawan Peacock Pheasant and Philippine Cockatoo are found in the park.

Various joint endeavors have been done so far between and among government and non-government organizations including the community surrounding the Park to improve the services to visitors who frequent to the Palawan Underground River when they are in Puerto Princesa Palawan.

After having bought your ticket at the park's office, at the one and only village street just before the jetty, take the path directly across that runs along the beach. At its end is a sign indicating the entrance to the National Park. You the take the "Monkey Trail." The climb is rather steep, but a makeshift wooden railing has been installed. The path, always perfectly  indicated , crosses the jungle, affording, beautiful views of the cliffs and the sea. You cross a marvelous beach before arriving at the rangers' station. From there, you can go deeper into the jungle through a less maintained path, or continue along a beach. Arriving at the cave's entrance, you simply rent one of the bancas awaiting visitors.


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It's very wonderful! Philippines is so blessed to have such a beautiful river that the whole world can be proud of. Visit the longest river in the world and be amazed on it's beauty and nature reserves.

Other Link: Palawan Underground River