Philippines Guide
For Travelers, Expats and Pinoys
Iloilo Government Sites
Iloilo City and its Culture
The pages of history could attest how colorful the events that trussed the heritage and culture of the city of Iloilo. Long before foreign fleets discovered the land, there were already local settlers living or staying in Iloilo curving their own version of civilization.
The Dinagyang Festival and Iloilo City
To know what the city of Iloilo is all about, tourists and visitors should witness the feast called Dinagyang. The festivity of Dinagyang is a cultural and religious feast in Iloilo City. It is being held annually after the Sinulog Festival in Cebu and Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan (this is celebrated every fourth (4th) Sunday of the month of January. Dinagyang Festival is celebrated and commemorated in honor of the Santo Niño (Holy Child Jesus) and the arrival of Malay settlers on Panay.
The said feast was just introduced in the late 1960′s by a local Catholic Priest Reverend Father Ambrosio Galindez. It started as a simple parish devotion until the Condradia tried to outline the devotion to the Aklan’s Ati-Atihan Festival. This local annual celebration became famous for the neighboring locals and with some international tourists. For that reason, in the late 1970′s President Marcos initiated several regions to come up with festivities or merriments to bolster development and tourism. Since then Dinagyang Festival had been the trademark of the city of Iloilo. This festival is parted into three (3) main events, the Miss Dinagyang, Kasadyahan Street Dancing and Ati-Atihan Street Dancing.
The richness of its cultural and historical heritage in the Dinagyang Festival’s theme, the said event was chosen and voted several times as the best tourism event by the Association of Tourism Officers in the Philippines. This annual occasion is also recognized by international organization such as the United Nations.
The City of Iloilo in Just a few clicks Away
Tourism, particularly of the Dinagyang Festival, had been the main reason why the influx of tourists, visitors and possible business entrepreneur or investors are steadily growing. The next big task of the local government has something to do with using the power a worldwide network which is the internet or the World Wide Web. The local administration of Iloilo City official website (http://iloilocity.gov.ph/) contains a lot of information about history, culture, tourism and even business related details of the place. As potential visitor or financier, it is definitely a must to check and visit Iloilo City’s website for real-time updates.
A glimpse of paradise – Boracay Island
Looking for a perfect destination to ease your hunger for pristine beaches, nature panorama matched with azure blue waters, picture perfect sunsets and a whole lot more? Well you’ve come to the right place where Philippines’ pride is flagged on- Boracay Islands Philippines’ finest beach.
In this age of beach craze, the Philippines have a list of beaches meant to lure tourists all around the world, but Boracay tops the list. Now tagged as an international tourist spot and probably one of the best beaches in the whole wide world, Boracay is surely a great vacation spot.
The illustrious image of Boracay had served as the grounds for a number of establishments and resorts which heighten its luxury. Boracay offers an array of establishments suit to fit your taste. These establishments won’t let you idle around just for a minute or so. The number of night bars doubles as each year passes. Since partying had always been on the to-do-list of the tourists, well Boracay won’t disappoint you in any way.
All in all these is what in store for you, a certified package deal of unforgettable beach getaway. For those in tight budgets if you don’t want to drop a single penny, this is what Boracay’s natural beauty can give you. By day, you can worship the sun, even its hurtful glares that paint a perfect tan on your skin plus the scenery perfect for nature lovers, and sunset you could die for. By night, the fun continues as different bars showcases bands and artists. As a vacation spot, they are readily aware of putting the entertainment a priority in promoting its market.
If you think that’s all, think again, in a modern lifestyle which you might be engaged to physical sports, bringing it with you on your vacation can be possible. Aside from swimming the azure blue waters, other activities you can engage to for a physical stretch, is a diverse choice of water sports, starting of with its new venture are a number of diving schools. These schools will help you enjoy your vacation more by trying a new sport at an easier pace.
Being a first-class tourist destination, it entails an image of being overly commercialized, but as anyone would say, it can still be a place for those who had tight budgets. Choosing between Station 1 and Station 2 & 3 really makes a difference. Station 1 houses most of the luxurious establishments and accommodation costs here are of course double in price compared to that of the other stations. Options are now up to you, but to enjoy the Islands itself is more than what you could actually spend.
Life is a beach here in Boracay, so don’t miss it out. Relax and escape from the city lights from the urban to a refreshing scene in the pride of the Philippines, Boracay Islands. With the hospitality you’ll ever need accommodation as grand as ever and fun that never stops within your reach.
Dumaguete Government Sites
The City that ‘Swoops’
The history of the first settlers and its civilization had something to do with the natural attractiveness of the place. The location was said to be looted by Muslim buccaneers that used to ‘daggit’ or ‘to snatch’ something out of this place. Another account said; its charm never failed to magnetize visitors to come and stay for good, hence, the word ‘dumaguet’ (to swoop). Until in 1734, the place was known to be Dumaguete: the City of Gentle People.
Dumaguete City: University Town
The city of Dumgauete has a distinct reputation of being ‘the center of learning in the south’ for some obvious reasons. The presence of notable universities and colleges made Dumaguete City famous locally and internationally as well. Thus, it was considered a ‘melting pot’ of scholars, artists, professionals and students from different parts of the Philippines and of the world. The presence of Siliman University had given the university town aura since its foundation. The said university is the oldest American-established university in Asia. The Siliman Main Library is considered to be as one of the largest libraries in the Philippines. Other universities and colleges situated in Dumaguete are Saint Paul University of Dumaguete, Negros Oriental State University (or NORSU) and Foundation University. Computer schools or Information Technology (IT) related schools are also prevalent in Dumaguete City as well (AMA Computer College, STI College and Asian College of Science and Technology or ACSAT).
Festivities of the city of Dumaguete
The following are some notable feasts or reasons for merry making in Dumaguete City. Every month of May, Santacruzan and May Flower Festival are being commemorated by the last week of the month. The foundation of Siliman University is being celebrated during August annually. The Buglasan Festival and the founder’s day of Saint Paul’s University of Dumaguete are being held every October yearly.
Getting to know more about Dumaguete City
The status of the place as the center of education in the southern part of the Philippines had paved way to the influx of individuals to study, stay and do business. With this thing in mind, the local government of the city of Dumaguete use one of the most effective ways to access the place in the most convenient way. The official website (www.dumaguetecity.gov.ph) is the cyberspace gateway of the city of Dumaguete. It is full of information for individual who would like to have a glimpse of the beauty of Dumaguete City. As a traveler, it is a must to check this website for real-time updates regarding the place.
Tacloban Beach Guide
There are several beaches in the Philippines, but as this Tacloban beach guide will show, some of the very best are located not far from the city. Here are some places you may want to include on your next trip to the province.
Any Tacloban beach guide would most likely include White Beach, which is only a few kilometers away from the capital, easily reachable by car or jeepney. As the name makes clear the sand that envelops it is pure white, and the sands are among the smoothest that you will find anywhere else. Not only is it a great place to go swimming with your friends but the vast expanse of the waters makes it ideal for boating too, and the nearby fishing area gives you a chance to hone your fishing skills too.
This Tacloban beach guide can also recommend Red Beach, sandwiched between Baras and Candahug (both of which are some 10 km from Tacloban). This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, as it was the landing site of General MacArthur during World War II. Today there are resorts, restaurants and other accommodations around the area to make your stay more pleasurable.
There is also a beach off Barangay Luan in Dulag that is worthy of a visit. This Tacloban beach guide can point out that while it does not have an “official” name (it is sometimes called Blue Beach or Dulag Beach), it still merits a visit. The waters are pure, and not being as well known as the others, present an alternative to the “noisier” and more populated beaches in the Philippines.
This Tacloban beach guide can also attest to the high quality of the so called Orange Beach. Apart from the smooth sands and crystalline waters, the waters themselves hold additional treasures beneath, including coral reefs and exotic types of fishes. The fact that the beach is not far off from popular diving sites just adds to its drawing power.
Going by Blue and Orange Beach you will find other beaches, each possessing their own attractions and highlights. The names of these places were given by the Allied Forces as they were planning their assault against the Japanese in Leyte during World War II, one of the most important events in Philippine history.
There are several popular tourist destinations scattered throughout this Philippine province, but this Tacloban beach guide has provided you the places and areas that should be part of your itinerary. From strolling along the sands to snorkeling, they will not be an experience you will soon forget.
Dumaguete Festivals and Events
Overview
One of the favorite things that tourists and local visitors do when in Dumaguete is participate in Dumaguete festivals. Dumaguete festivals are among the most unique and colorful in the entire country and because these events are lively and enjoyable, many people flock to Dumaguete particularly on these occasions.
Sandurot Festival
One of the most highly anticipated Dumaguete festivals is the Sandurot Festival held every November for 5 days, starting from November 21. For those who particularly want to learn about the rich history of Dumaguete, should make it a point to attend the Sandurot Festival since this is a depiction of the lives of the early inhabitants. The history of Dumaguete from the time that the foreigners entered the city from the Dumaguete seas is depicted at the Sandurot Festival through dances, parades and plays. This Dumaguete festival traces history from before to now so all those who are watching begin to understand the journey that this city has made. The Sandurot Festival is organized by the local government and the organizers make it a point to represent all the foreign cultures that have had an influence on Dumaguete such as the Spanish, Americans, Japanese and Chinese. Of course, no Dumaguete festival is complete without the rhythmic street dancing and this is definitely part of the Sandurot Festival.
Buglasan Festival
The Buglasan Festival is held for 10 days every October and this event kicks off with dance competitions. All the inhabitants of Negros Oriental culminate at Dumaguete City for this much awaited Dumaguete festival. During the 10 days that the Buglasan Festival is celebrated, there are even singing competitions for all age groups. One of the good things that happen during this Dumaguete festival is the cultural shows that exhibit the talent of the inhabitants. The Buglasan Festival also has booths with local handicrafts for sale. There are also other competitions during the Buglasan Festival such as chess, cheer dance, folk dance, and pyrotechnics. In this Dumaguete festival, there is something for everybody whether it be a cultural show display, shopping or just a day of dancing.
Santa Cruzan Fiesta
This Dumaguete festival is somewhat similar to Buglasan Festival. The Santa Cruzan Fiesta is held every May and it is where the prettiest girls and some showbiz icons walk the streets adorned in beautiful dresses. The Santa Cruzan Fiesta is a religious event celebrated as far back as the time of the Spaniards so this Dumaguete festival will give one an opportunity to appreciate the history of this city.
Let’s Fly to Boracay!
You’ve heard of the powdery-white sand that’s always cool to the touch, even at high noon. You’ve been longing for the crystal-clear waters that surround the island, and most of all, you crave the warmness of the local folk. Admit it, you’ve always wanted to experience Boracay, and if you’ve already been there, you must want to go back.
Before you rush into any decisions, brush up on your basic Boracay flight information. Do you want to save money by flying to Kalibo? If you do that, you’ll be paying less but you’ll have to wait in a van or a bus for 90 minutes as it makes its way to the Caticlan jetty port.
However, if you don’t mind shelling out a few extra thousands of pesos, you’ll be paying for convenience because your charter plane will be landing directly at Caticlan, where you can almost go straight to Boracay in less time.
The major carriers that provide flights to Kalibo from Manila are Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific Air. Their rates vary from peak season to normal season, so for the latest rates just visit their websites.
Philippine Airlines provides great service, and on this they have built their reputation for years. Cebu Pacific, for the more budgeting traveler, provides great discounts on airfares. (They even provide airfare for as low as one peso during some months; of course you still have to pay all the taxes.)
The companies that provide charter flights to Boracay are Asian Spirit and Seair. Seair boasts of having the fastest flights to Boracay, while Asian Spirit provides packages for its clients.
If you’re on a tight budget, it’s best that you gather all Boracay flight information and canvass months in advance. Figure out which flight plan suits you the most. Determine the best carrier that provides you with the value for your money.
How do you get additional Boracay flight information? Use your main resource: the Internet. The airline websites make the fares readily available for comparison, and you can use this to your advantage. Sometimes, booking months in advance can save you a lot on fares. Also, online ticketing has made booking a lot more convenient for everyone.
If you go to your local book store you will also find some travel guides that provide the basic Boracay flight information. These guides will also be helpful for when you actually arrive on the island. They can guide you to the best resorts, best restaurants, and best activities on the island.
Lastly, if you don’t want to be hassled at all, just call your local travel agent and they will give you all the Boracay flight information that you need.
What you need to know about Boracay flight information depends on how much you are willing to sacrifice and how fast you want to get there. If you don’t mind riding a van or a bus for a while, then get the cheaper flights to Kalibo. If you want to get there right away, take a chartered flight to Caticlan. In the end, what’s important is not how you get there, but the fact that you actually arrive.
Bohol Beach Guide
Bohol has been gaining more popularity these past few years. People in Bohol are warm and hospitable. The place is considered a paradise by people who have visited it. The capital is Tagbilaran city. This is the point of entry. Tagbilaran is where you can find the only airport in Bohol. People go to Bohol to enjoy the beaches and the sights to see.
Panglao Island is Bohol’s popular island where you can find the top resorts and hotels in Bohol. Alona beach is the loveliest beach in Panglao. It is where most establishments can be found. This part of the island is in the southwest end. Alona beach is one and half kilometers in length and it has several resorts offering accommodations and package tours for varying prices. Alona beach also has great diving sites offering different coral formations and filled with marine life. There are great places in Alona beach where you can eat with your family and friends. There are schools where you can learn how to dive and rent some diving equipments as well. The only setback in Alona beach are probably some big urchins which can reach the beach from time to time so it is best take precautions when you are swimming. Never forget to take your equipment for snorkeling when you are hundred meters away from the shore where you will go near the hour reef’s edge which is five meters in depth and you can observe the life underneath the waters. Most boatmen know the perfect spots to scuba dive. There are different reefs where you can see the amazing life underneath the water.
Dumaluan Beach is the beach on the southern part of Panglao. It is two and a half kilometers away from the Alona beach. There are more resorts here that can offer more privacy because most of them are exclusives like the Bohol Beach Club.
Bikini Beach is another beach eight kilometers away from the capital of Bohol. This is a popular place for families and friends who like to enjoy a picnic.
Momo Beach is another beach on the northern part of Panglao island. This is a beach with shallow waters.
Doljo Beach is situated on the northwestern side of Panglao. It is closer to Momo beach and it is a good beach as well. It is free from the common sea grass present in other beaches. There are several shells you can find when you walk along the beach.
Boracay – A Romantic Getaway
There is nothing as fun and romantic as a getaway vacation on the beautiful island of Boracay. Previously hidden away amidst the thousands of islands of the Philippines, Boracay is now considered one of the predominant travel destinations, both for lovers wishing to take a private vacation for a few weeks, or for couples wishing to rekindle their relationship. From lounging about along the white sands and frolicking in the waters, to taking a part in the thriving and energetic nightlife,
Most people choose to go to Boracay for its attractive beaches, and White Beach is easily the most popular. As its name implies, this beach is renowned for its white sandy beaches and beautiful coastlines, and most people often choose to spend their time relaxing under one of the many palm trees in the area, with a chain of restaurants, refreshment bars, shops, and even internet cafes not too faraway for accessibility. White Beach also sports several stalls along the area, where vendors can sell you anything from shirts to handmade jewelry made of shells, or even scuba equipment.
Another popular tourist destination is the Puka Beach, named so for the puka shells that are found along this area, and is used to fashion jewelry and other trinkets to sell to visitors. Puka beach is generally considered to be quieter than White Beach, with lesser people. Another beach is the Baling Hai Beach, which boasts of a restaurant atop a cliff that overlooks the whole area, and is perfect for romantic dinners and rendezvous.
Perhaps one of the more unique tourist attractions that Boracay offers is what natives call the Bat Cave. Far from being any mysterious superhero’s lair, the cave actually houses the next best thing: giant fruit bats that often roam the area at around sunset. Visitors are given the chance to enter the cave with tourist guides for a minimal fee, where they can be treated to a view of majestic stalactites several feet long. This area has no handrails and can be slippery at times, so before hiking into the cave, it is always best to bring a flashlight at the least- making this one of the more exhilarating and exciting adventures for the outgoing couple to enjoy together.
Spas are also a notable part of Boracay. The Mandala Spa and Villas is one of the renowned spa resorts found in the island, having been awarded as the most outstanding honeymoon destination, and the best spa destination in the region. For a standard three days and two nights, luxurious facilities and amenities are available for couples to enjoy time together, and the expert massage treatments by the professional masseuse only enhances the romantic atmosphere. Enjoy a dinner for two at the Mandala’s Prana restaurant with its luscious vegetarian meals, delicious desserts, and high quality wine. Daily yoga classes and Zen massages are even readily available.
For visitors who are also interested in environment, the Boracay Butterfly Gardens on Bulabog Beach is also a must-see. Visitors are treated to a tour of the large tropical garden, populated by rare butterflies of almost every shape and color, along with fascinating information and details regarding their life cycles. This is a perfect spot for most couples to get in touch with nature and to spend time with one another.
Now easily ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, Boracay is now an international tourist destination where people all over the world flock to when vacation season hits. With good quality beaches, the beautiful scenery and a thriving nightlife for those seeking it, Boracay is slowly becoming the place to be during the summer months.
Leyte Sightseeing and Activities
The island province of Leyte has many things to offer to visitors in terms of tourist destinations. From sightseeing tours, immersing in culture and history up to communing with nature, these destinations give a chance for tourist to engage in enjoyable activities.
Tourists who are into sightseeing tours about history will not be disappointed with Leyte. Historical landmarks and sites are scattered around the province waiting for history buffs. Tacloban has the Leyte Provincial Capitol, CAP Building (Price Mansion) and Redona Residence. These places are worth the sightseeing tour because these had significance during the liberation of Leyte in World War II. Meanwhile, there are also similar places found in Palo. The General Douglas MacArthur Landing Memorial and Guinhangdan Hill (Hill 522) are also significant historical places during the War era. On the other hand, The Hilongos Bell Tower in Hilongos, Leyte has significance from the Spanish era.
Tourists who want to immerse in the rich cultural heritage of the island should visit some of its notable museums and library for a sightseeing activity. The People’s Center and Library, located in Real Street, Tacloban, boasts of historical artifacts and a collection of dioramas depicting ethnic tribes in the Philippines. The Santa Fe Community Museum, on the other hand, showcases antiques and artifacts from the Spanish period up to World War II. Finally, the Santo Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum in Tacloban has an impressive collection of religious art and cultural artifacts. Paintings about the Stations of the Cross, a bas-relief wood carving depicting Malakas and Maganda (Philippines’ version of Adam and Eve), statues of the Santo Nino and paintings done by national artist Fernando Amorsolo are some of its notable collection on display.
A religious pilgrimage of shrines and holy sites can be done in Leyte. Sightseeing tourists will appreciate the varied religious life in the province. The Madonna of Japan, located in Kanhuraw Hill, Tacloban, boasts of a beautiful garden where the statue of the Japanese Goddess of Peace known as Maria Cannon is found. The Santo Nino Church, located also in Tacloban, is the location of the image of the patron saint Santo Nino where devotees attest that it is a miraculous statue. Another attraction is the Buddhist Temple in Anibong District. Finally, the La Purisima Shrine in Palo is the house of the image of the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception.
Aside from sightseeing, there are destinations in the island of Leyte that give a chance for tourist to commune with nature. Activities like swimming, diving, island hopping, hiking can be engaged by tourists from across different destinations of natural wonders of mountains, islands, beaches, nature parks. White Beach in San Jose, Red Beach in Palo and Cuatro Islas (Four Islands) are ideal destinations for water activities like swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, boating. Mount Kankahanay in Jaro, Mahagnao National Park in Burauen, Leyte Mountain Trail, Tongonan Hotsprings National Park and Lake Danao in Ormoc, Amihan Cebu Woodlands and Mount Pangasugan Ecopark in Baybay are ideal places for tourists who want to adventurous by hiking or hunting.
Leyte Travel Guide
One of the provinces in the Philippines that have rich culture and history, Leyte is popular for its beautiful tourist destinations, accommodating hospitality service providers, and attractive dining places. Due to the interesting places in Leyte, Philippines, many foreigners as well as Filipino vacationers like to visit the province. However, to be assured that they will have a remarkable and enjoyable stay in the area, it is significant that they refer to Leyte travel guides for hotels where they can relax, restaurants where they can unwind, and tourist spots where they can enjoy.
Tourist Spots in Leyte
For those who plan to travel to Leyte, Philippines, they can always take a glance at the famous tourist spots in the place. Most Leyte travel guides feature tourist destinations in the province that people can visit such as religious shrines and churches, which include Buddhist Temple in the City of Tacloban, Santo Nino Church, also in Tacloban City, and Palo Metropolitan Cathedral in Palo. Meanwhile, travelers can also go to the major attractions in Leyte, Philippines, namely San Juanico Bridge, Mac Arthur Beach Resort, and Redona Residence. Hence, there are Leyte travel guides that feature historical places like Mac Arthur Leyte Landing Memorial, Hilongos Bell Tower, and Battle of Baluarte Marker.
Restaurants
When it comes to eating, Leyte, Philippines, takes pride in the famous restaurants and dining places that it features. To help travelers decide the dining place to visit in the province, Leyte travel guides feature the specialties of several restaurants in Leyte, Philippines. For those who like seafood and grilled dishes, they can always dine at Rafael’s Farm and Garden Restaurant, as well as Ocho Seafood and Grill. On the other hand, for those who prefer to try the delectable dishes at foreign dishes like Mexican, Italian, and English dishes, they can have a wonderful dining experience at any of these places; Sunzibar, Calle Zaragoza, and Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano-Filipino.
Hotels
In terms of accommodation, Leyte travel guides always feature hospitality service providers in Leyte, Philippines. For people who prefer to stay in hotels that have special amenities, they can take a look at the facilities of Leyte Park Resort Hotel, as well as MacArthur Park Beach Resort. On the other hand, to help travelers who do not have ample budget to stay in luxurious hotels, Leyte travel guides also feature inns and lodges that they can visit in Leyte, Philippines, like Silago Tourist Inns, Zenaida Chateau Tourist Inn, and Amber’s Inn.
