Philippines Guide
For Travelers, Expats and Pinoys
Palawan Shopping
Perhaps you’ve known Palawan for its pristine, white beaches, untouched forests, marine biodiversity , archeological sites as well as its breathtaking rock formations. But after you’ve got your tan, enjoyed your sumptuous seafood dishes, finished your dive explorations and ended your island hopping adventures, what’s next for your remaining Palawan vacation?
Finishing all these activities does not mean Palawan has nothing else to offer and you have no choice but stay in your hotel room, catch up on what’s happening with the rest of the world and take a rest. No, it’s not yet time for that as shopping in Palawan is another kind of adventure which may prove to be one of a kind depending on which city or town in Palawan you are.
The items that you may you want to buy in Palawan would serve as your souvenir gifts for your yourself or to friends and relatives when you go home. Since Palawan’s natural resources, sceneries, cultures, arts and beliefs are diverse, you may find yourself with tons of souvenir items worth shopping for.
Apparels – Shirts, with or without sleeves, for kids or adults are a dime a dozen. From simple logos and images of beaches in El Nido, the Palawan subterranean river, Coron’s diving spots to Palawan artworks, you can choose which one to best describe your vacation in Palawan.
Pearls – Palawan is a shopping mecca for south sea pearls. From big pearl earrings to complete set of pearl necklace, bracelet and earrings, pearls stores in Palawan sell budget-friendly pearl jewelries. You can also opt for ingeniously crafted jewelries made from seashells that would definitely add a touch of class to your wardrobe.
Rain maker – This bamboo instrument used by natives in Palawan to summon rain clouds have been in the shopping bags of local and foreign tourists. You will never have a hard time looking for this souvenir item especially when you are in Puerto Princesa.
Tourist spots memorabilia – Choose from a wide variety of memorabilis such as native baskets, pens, bags, slippers and display items.
You need not worry if these souvenir items are only available at limited or certain locations in Palawan. Whether you’re staying at one town, just head to these spots and you would definitely find souvenir stalls.
El Nido – At the town proper, small establishments have been set up to cater to multitudes of tourist in El Nido. You can also head to your respective resorts and check out their souvenir shops.
Puerto Princesa – Shopping in Puerto Princesa is as easy as taking a tricycle and asking the driver to bring you these souvenir stores either you can head to the plaza just right across Puerto Princasa’s municipal hall or look for items at your hotel or even at the airport.
Coron – Though Coron may seem to be the less commercialized among the three tourist destinations in Palawan, the town has its share of souvenir stalls worth checking out. You can head to the dry market section at the town proper or walk around the town proper vicinity and you will easily find shops offering Coron memorabilia.
A good vacation or maybe the best vacation is a combination of relaxation, discovery, sharing and shopping. Palawan offers not just a respite from crowded cities and busy schedules, the island also lets you benefit from the therapeutic aspect of shopping.
Puerto Galera Shopping
Puerto Galera is located in Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. It may only have a total population of 21,925 as estimated by the 2000 census, but tourists that visit Puerto Galera do not only double or triple the population. Thousands of tourists visit Puerto Galera because of its beaches and the nightlife. But diving, snorkeling, and partying are not the only activities that may be enjoyed in Puerto Galera. Believe it or not, tourists may also enjoy shopping there.
Why don?t we do some shopping at the White Beach.
White Beach is the most famous beach in Puerto Galera for party people as nightlife in this beach is really spectacular. White Beach has a near proximity to the town proper and going to this beach is very accessible as there are ferry routes from the Batangas Pier to the resort itself. Moreover, only one ferry ride is needed to reach the Muelle Pier. Diving, snorkeling, partying, beach volleyball and other water activities are present in the White Beach Resort but those who have not yet visited this beach may be surprised to know that this place is actually ideal for shopping too!
A tourist may come to White Beach without bringing anything as all kinds of beach wear may be bought in the countless stores established in the place, such as bikinis, board shorts, and sandos. Aside from swimwear, clothes after swimming may also be bought there such as T-shirts, shorts, pants, and sarong. These items come in cheap prices and what’s even more interesting is the fact that one can even ask for more discounts! Sarongs or the cover-ups may be bought for only Php120 but the tie-dyed ones are priced at Pho180. Souvenir shirts may be bought for as low as Php100 but these are adult sizes. Sizes for children are priced at Php80. Different bathing suits are also sold in the stores in White Beach and what’s interesting is the fact that all come in different interesting styles. There are even crocheted bikinis as well as crocheted cover ups.
Aside from shopping for clothes, shopping for accessories is also feasible at the White Beach. Different accessories are being sold in this beach such as accessories for the hair, bracelets, anklets, necklaces, belts, and others. If one is interested in creating sandcastles, toys for making such may be bought in the stores at the White Beach. If one forgets to bring slippers, thousands of flip-flops are being sold at the White Beach too! And it seems that one is just in the metropolitan area as the designs of the flip-flops are also cute and interesting! Those who are interested in shopping for bags will also find different kinds of bags at the White Beach. The most visible kind of bags are those that are Mangyan woven.
Before going home, do some more shopping for souvenirs. One might want to bring home key chains made of sea shells which can be bought for only Php10. There are also thousands of key chains being sold for Php20 or Php20 with designs like tiny slippers, tiny frogs, tiny lizards, and other tiny animals. Aside from key chains, one can also go shopping for refrigerator magnets. These also come in different designs such as sea shells and slippers, too.
Indeed, Puerto Galera is not only for beach lovers but it is also for shoppers. White Beach is perfect for shopping as the prices are very affordable.
Mountaineering in the Philippines
They say: “If you can’t beat it, join it.”
As with many life-changing decisions that people make, many people became full-fledged outdoor enthusiasts for many reasons. It only used to be a dream, so far-fetched they never imagined that someday they would be among the privileged few who, despite a chaotic schedule, would still find time to commune with nature, meet new friends, discover hidden wonders, and have the pleasure of writing about it.
Mountaineering has been in existence for years. In the Philippines, it met its glorious height in the early 1990s. Ascents to the country’s highest peak have become more frequent that throughout the years thousands have conquered and survived. The sport itself has lured thousands in its web of danger, challenges and risks.
Many were lured into the sport itself. How could they not with mountaineer friends from all over the Philippines? These people would often tell stories about their climbs, their treks that many have become envious of them. They weren’t comfortable about it at first. They fought so hard but they couldn’t beat the desire to experience it myself so they joined.
And it was one of the greatest decisions they’ve made and they’re extremely glad they joined. It brought me so much pleasure that they would gladly go exploring some more despite the dangers and risks it poses and a chaotic schedule – especially now when most people do both day and night shifts at work. Not only that they would also help promote tourism in their own little way.
The islands in Panay abound in places worth laying eyes on. One only has to have the passion and daring to visit them. One can witness the majesty of nature in its ethereal seclusion for just a day. To bask in the allure of nature doesn’t have to be spending a night or two sleeping on the earth. Take our journeys for example, we explored three caves in Guimaras Island for a day. We climbed five waterfalls in Barotac Viejo for a day too. We bouldered the rocks of Dingle that have been withered by time for a day also. But if you really want to feel the extremes in the wilds, then go camping for a night or more.
Believe me. You will find it refreshing and soul-gratifying.
Got Scabs? Climbing salves are now available so you don’t have to worry.
Live with courage. Have a passion for the outdoors. Be a nature lover for a change.
Forget about scabs.
They’ll heal.
Mine did.
His did.
Ours did.
Yours will too.
[Tags]Philippines, Outdoor Activities, Mountaineering, Caves, Rocks, Guimaras, Mountain Climbing, Spelunking, Panay, Highest Peak[/Tags]
Cebu Shopping
The island of Cebu has plenty to offer when it comes to malls, boutiques and stores. Shopping in Cebu is not only for the masses who would like to buy affordable items but it is also for the elite searching for designer fashion and upscale boutiques. You can find absolutely anything in this city in just a day. Let us introduce you to the hotspots of the city.
For those who are looking for affordable accessories, clothes and toiletries should be seeking out Metro Gaisano which is located right in the metro of Cebu City. This mall is not too big but it can often become a little overcrowded so take good care of your purses or bags. You can find a food court in the top floor so that you can relax and take a lunch break while shopping. You can even fill your refrigerator at home with the groceries bought at Metro Gaisano.
The next mall that makes shopping in Cebu a delight is SM which stands for Shoe Mart. The mall however has nothing to do with shoes but it offers a variety of different stores, restaurants and salons. Shopping in Cebu and especially in SM is great because this mall is huge and you can be sure not to have to bump into strangers. Get the latest affordable fashion items from various boutiques such as Guess, Maldita or Penshoppe. You will also find The Body Shop and Watsons as well as several popular fast food chains such as KFC, McDonalds or Pizza Hut.
The ultimate destination if you are going to go shopping in Cebu is the Ayala Mall. Ayala is synonymous for class, elegance and designer fashion. If you are going shopping in Cebu to hunt down the most exclusive stores then you are in the right mall. The Ayala mall has several international brands on display such as Linea Italia, Guess, Marithe Francois Girbaud, Nine West, Hush Puppies and so many more. You will also find the designer shop called Rustan’s within the Ayala mall. Rustan’s in the Philippines is known for the most expensive and most stylish designer items and shopping in Cebu has never been this classy before.
Just like every Filipino city, you will be able to find so-called Sari Sari stores when you go shopping in Cebu as well. These stores that sell native Filipino products can be found in the Ayala mall and in the SM mall. The stores sell local pottery, clothes and house wares. If all these places are not reason enough to go shopping in Cebu, then we don’t know what else could possibly convince you. Enjoy your stay and shop until you drop in Cebu City.
Samar Shopping
Definitely one of the shopping hubs in the eastern part of Visayas, Samar is home to a number of huge malls, souvenir shops and specialty stores. All the wonderful items and products that these commercial establishments offer always leave customers very much satisfied, which contribute greatly to a one-of-a-kind fun and exciting experience called Samar shopping.
Wayang Wayang Souvenir Shop
Perfect for people who are looking for interestingly beautiful items that they can bring home with them, Wayang Wayang Souvenir Shop offers an assortment of items. This specialty store sells special t-shirts with various colors and designs. Add to that, there are also other beautiful things to purchase such as key chains, ref magnets and mugs. Of course, it also sells paperweights with special designs and inscriptions on them. Inside this store, different kinds of beautiful products are up for grabs for only 200 pesos.
Wilsam Uptown Mall
Probably the largest shopping mall in the area, Wilsam Uptown Mall offers customers a wonderful Samar shopping experience. Right inside this building, shoppers can do numerous things aside from shopping. They can eat at some of the food stalls available, which serve different kinds of tasty treats and refreshing drinks. Furthermore, it also hosts numerous fast food chains including those that specialize in Italian, Filipino and American cuisines. For people who are looking for clothes, they can shop for jeans and shirts at retail stores like Bench, Novo and BNY. Paying your mobile phone bills is never a problem inside this place because it has a Globe Telecom center. Meanwhile, the Cirilo Digital Photo Services is always ready to help customers in their various photo-printing needs.
Delzas Native Products
Found within the municipality of Basey just along San Fernando Street, Delzas Native Products sells different kinds of beautiful handicrafts. These special products serve as special souvenirs including tablemats, doormats and floor carpets. The store also offers native slippers, lampshades and various kinds of in-house decorations. For those who love bags, this place has a lot of beautiful items to offer, all of which are made from durable and well-selected native materials. These items are available for the reasonable price of 350 pesos to 500 pesos only considering their pretty good quality.
Catbalogan Centro
Primarily a small commercial center featuring numerous food stalls and retail stores, Catbalogan Centro is found within the city proper of Catbalogan. In here, customers can find numerous interesting items and special products. Many food service providers are available inside, which offer different types of food and beverages including hamburgers, soft drinks and sandwiches. In terms of fashion and style, this mall houses stores that sell footwear, clothes and different kinds of accessories for the body.
Tacloban Shopping
Tacloban shopping is not as pronounced as it is in Metro Manila. Yet those who seek to find designer clothes, jewelry, and appliances apart from the native products, will never be disappointed. Tacloban shopping also makes good offers on a variety of products that you would naturally look for when you are out on a buying mode.
It must be understood, however, that Tacloban shopping goes beyond just the mall. In fact, as of this writing, only Gaisano and Robinson’s mall are standing proud to offer shopping, mall-style to the locals and tourists alike who are in for more metro-style shopping.
Meanwhile, Tacloban shopping, palengke-style remains to be the fashion. There are a number of local shops that you would find interesting with just about the most exciting goods you’d love coming home with.
Gaisano Capital Mall – This is the oldest sign of modernization in Tacloban shopping. It used to be that this is the only mall in Tacloban so it is not as hard to locate. Everyone knows where it is and everyone would be delighted to help you get there. It is filled with so many items, foreigners think shopping there is much wiser than bringing in some from abroad. That’s because Gaisano Capital Mall has a wide variety of items on sale, and at reasonable prices, too. Aside from the amazing array of clothing, shoes, jewelry, undergarments, and whatnot, there are also numerous eating hubs that offer just about every kind of delicacy you might be craving about. What’s more, the staff very helpful and courteous. You’d love getting bargains here through the aid of the friendly mall employees. [Downtown Tacloban, Cor. Rizal Ave. & Justice Romualdez St., Tacloban City, Leyte]
Gaisano Central Mall – Just recently, Gaisano mall became more renowned in Tacloban shopping because of the additions set in another mall area that is a few walks away from the capital mall. There are even more shops that could supply you with all that you need in Gaisano central mall, having opened its doors to shoppers only in the latter part of 2008. This one houses a huge supermarket that offers everything you might need around the household and beyond. Contrary to the rumors spreading, Gaisano Capital Mall is not to close with the opening of this new one. [Justice Romualdez St., Tacloban City, Leyte]
Bahandi Pasalubong – It’s good that you do not have to go far to fetch some native Tacloban products nowadays. That’s because one amazing store is situated right off the airport. Bahandi Pasalubong is filled with native delicacies as well as indigenous crafts not only from Tacloban but from all of Region VIII. [Tacloban City Airport, Tacloban City, Leyte]
Downtown Supermarket – If you plan to go shopping, the traditional way, you will find refuge from the downtown part of the metro where all sorts of items can be bought — From dried fishes to moron to binagol to sip-hid and banig. [Downtown area, Tacloban City, Leyte]
Butuan Sightseeing and Activities
Overview
The ancient place of Butuan has long since played an important role in Philippine history, having been the venue of many significant events. When one is planning on some Butuan sightseeing, one should know which places to go to, to learn about the roots of the inhabitants of Butuan and understand its culture that seems to have been preserved by time.
Mount Mayapay
Mount Mayapay has always been a Butuan sightseeing destination and though one might not initially understand what’s so great about a mountain, one will get a deeper understanding of why this place is so famous. Mount Mayapay stands at over two thousand feet and this mountain has been completely carved by nature in stone. The entire Caraga region stands in awe of Mount Mayapay and this is a product of centuries of work by Mother Nature.
This Butuan sightseeing destination is very close to the Agusan Valley and many climbers have been known to attempt climbing it. Climbers are after a certain natural high and they say that upon reaching the top of Mount Mayapay, the feeling is extraordinary and the adventure one of a kind. For those who are not in the mood to climb this very tall mountain, one can simply trek until the middle, take pictures of the scenic view and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Mount Mayapay is a Butuan sightseeing destination that every member of the family will enjoy.
Agusan River
If one is planning on doing some Butuan sightseeing, one should definitely take a boat ride along the Agusan River. A big part of the culture and a significant portion of Philippine history are preserved along the banks of the Agusan River where many locals live up to this very day. The Agusan River is said to be the largest navigable river in the entire Visayas region and the boat ride itself is close to two hours.
Once in the boat, one will notice that this is a different kind of Butuan sightseeing experience especially since one is not just confined to the waters. In fact, the boat will dock at several of these communities where tourists can mingle with the friendly locals and buy a couple of souvenirs. The importance of the Agusan River should not be undermined and a local festival is held in honor of it annually named the Abayan Festival. If one is wondering why these communities have decided to settle along the banks of the Agusan River, it’s because from centuries ago, commerce was facilitated mostly on waters and not on land.
Ormoc Sightseeing and Activities
Overview
Despite the economic success of Ormoc over the years, one will be glad to know that this city has managed to keep a large part of its culture and history intact through the various Ormoc sightseeing spots. When visiting this province, it’s inevitable to want to learn more about this place and there is no better way to do that than to spend a day or two doing some Ormoc sightseeing.
Leyte Mountain Trek
The nature lovers and the sports enthusiasts will find refuge at the Leyte Mountain Trek and this Ormoc sightseeing spot is the perfect place to sweat it out amidst virgin forests. The Leyte Mountain Trek is a favorite among backpackers and the trail that runs for a good 26 miles has been tried by many, both foreigners and locals. What’s particularly good about a visit to the Leyte Mountain Trek is that by going to it and seeing this place, one will also get to see two other known Ormoc sightseeing spots. The trails starts at Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park and at the end of the trek, one will end up at the Danao Lake Natural Park right in the center of Ormoc City. The journey through the Leyte Mountain Trek is something that even children as young as 12 years old can make because the walk is something that is serene and the trail is easy to trod on. While at the Leyte Mountain Trek, enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of Ormoc and have an exhilarating day.
Danao Lake Natural Park
The Danao Lake Natural Park is a favorite Ormoc sightseeing spot by visitors because of its natural beauty and the many activities that can be done here. The Danao Lake Natural Park is great place to have a family picnic or if one wants to keep it hassle free, there’s always the floating restaurant that serves sumptuous delights. There is also a scenic boat ride that will allow one to navigate the waters when at the Danao Lake Natural Park and the crystal waters is where one will see spectacular sea creatures. Legend has it that a giant eel a little over 3 kilometers long swims deep in the waters of Danao Lake Natural Park and there are souvenir shops in the area where one can buy a keychain or a shirt with a print of this mystical creature. Indeed when it comes to Ormoc sightseeing, the Danao Lake Natural Park is a place that is simply crying out to be visited and one will not regret dropping by at this famous tourist attraction.
Dumaguete Sightseeing and Activities
Dumaguete City, being the capital of Negros Oriental, has many interesting places to visit for a tourist. Different kinds of activities like sightseeing, nature-tripping, swimming, diving can be engaged in by travelers. Parks, animal sanctuaries, historical landmarks, museums, religious shrines, natural landmarks and beaches are destinations that will make tourists enjoy their visit to Dumaguete City.
Right inside the city are destinations for different kinds of activities. Aquino Freedom Park is an ideal place for promenading. Another good place for promenading is Rizal Boulevard. One can stroll along the street and enjoy the waterfront scenery. Perdices Avenue, on the other hand, has many shops for dining and shopping. Meanwhile, the Center For Tropical Studies in Siliman University is an ideal place for nature-loving tourists. Animals endemic to the area like the spotted deer (Cervus alfredi) are showcased in this zoo. For tourists who love arts and culture, the Mariya Gallery and Silliman University Ethno-Anthro Museum are the places to visit. The Dumaguete Belfry in the Cathedral of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Dumaguete City Hall, and Provincial Capitol are places to visit for history buffs.
Beaches near Dumaguete City are not just for sightseeing and swimming. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities in some of the beaches. Antulang Beach in Siaton boasts of white pebble beach, clear blue water, magnificent rock formations and lush marine life. Apo Island in Dauin is a popular spot for diving. The beaches of Camangyawon Beach, Lag-it Beach, San Moritz Beach,White Sandbar Reef and
Talisay Beach Park are ideal for swimming or just strolling around. Mina’s Undersea World and White Sandbar Reef are ideal places for snorkeling. Diving enthusiasts will enjoy going to Balatong Point.
The more adventurous tourist will not be disappointed with Dumaguete City. Cave formations and mountain trails are available for tourists who want to go trekking. Mabinay Caves has many places to offer for a spelunking tourists. Cayaso Cave boasts of an underground river while Odloman Cave was just cited as the second longest cave in the Philippines. Other caves worth visiting in Mabinay are Baliw Cave, Crystal Cave, Mambajo Cave, Panligawan Cave and Pandalihan Cave.
Mountaineering and trekking are popular activities in destinations like Camp Mapot and Mountain Park, Makawiliwili Ridge, Mount Canlaon and Mount Talinis. For picnics and camping, Forest Camp, Whuthering Heights and Veranda of the World are the places to visit.
Nature and animal lovers have several destinations to choose from. One can visit Bais City for dolphin and whale watching. Talabong Mangrove Park offers tourist to see the diverse flora and fauna within the mangrove forest.
Puerto Princesa Shopping
Overview
Aside from water sports and other outdoor activities, Puerto Princesa offers another enjoyable activity that everyone will appreciate. Puerto Princesa shopping is something that we all need to do just before our vacation ends so that we have souvenirs to bring home to friends and family and as memorabilia of a great vacation.
Iwahig Souvenir Shop
The Iwahig Prison Colony is not a place where one should be afraid to go to. Though this is a penal institution, it is also one of the tourist attractions in Puerto Princesa. The prisoners that are able to mingle with the tourists are low security prisoners who are not threatening and during one’s tour, a guard is always around to accompany the visitors. The Iwahig Prison Colony is a community where prisoners are taught productive and legal ways to earn a living so as to rehabilitate them. Puerto Princesa shopping is incomplete without making a stop at the Iwahig Souvenir Shop where the items made by prisoners are sold.
There are actually two Iwahig Souvenir Shops within the premises of the Iwahig Prison Colony. One is found in the main receiving area and the other Iwahig Souvenir Shop is located by the natural pools. What’s good about this type of Puerto Princesa shopping is that even if one only has a very small budget for souvenirs, one will surely have enough to buy more than just two items. The items that are on display at the Iwahig Souvenir Shop are key chains, wooden ashtrays and figurines, hand made accessories such as necklaces and bracelets, pens and many other small items. Puerto Princesa shopping does not mean that one has to spend thousands because at the Iwahig Souvenir Shop, one can buy a souvenir item for as little as Php 15.
Kamantian Handicraft
Since we’re talking about Puerto Princesa shopping and if one has a keen liking for handicrafts, another good stop is the Kamantian Handicraft. Similar to the Iwahig Souvenir Shop, there are many handicrafts for sale at this store and pretty much everything it sells is finely crafted. The Kamantian Handicraft’s focus is on Filipino culture and the ethnic tribes who have lived for centuries in the area. The members of the indigenous groups themselves sell their hand-woven items to the Kamantian Handicraft. Among the good finds here for one’s Puerto Princesa shopping are figurines, rainmakers, sticks made from mahogany and bamboo canes. Kamantian Handicraft is found on Rizal Avenue in the town proper of Puerto Princesa. The Kamantian Handicraft also sells many useful household items.
