I learned to appreciate a lot of things because of being informed. I appreciate things if and only if it is possible to have a direct experience with it. When I started to learn appreciating music, it was not enough for me to just listen and watch concerts and see the bands play their stuffs. To satisfy my 'appreciation', I needed to learn music by playing and making them by myself using a musical instruments. Same goes with other things, like going to a place and exploring it. Before trying to be in a new place or location, I really try to have bits and pieces of information to really appreciate and 'understand' what is going on (well, my point here is for me to have a 'feel of the place'). As for me, appreciation is more of setting expectations for myself than others trying to set expectations for me. It is like throwing questions to the tour guide than have the tour lead have it all the way. As for now I would like to discuss some facts about Leyte. I would be acting as a virtual 'tour guide'.
Leyte had been actively trading with merchants from neighboring nations particularly with the Chinese until Spanish set foot to Limasawa in 1521. The local chieftains had been amicable in accepting the Portuguese navigator none other than Ferdinand Magellan. Since then the rural place had taken transition from simple rural living to a relatively modern lifestyle. However, some asserted that it was Ruy Lopez de Villabos was the first Spanish conquistador to be in the island in 1543 and coined it Las Islas Felipinas. One of the most significant historical events that took place in the surrounding seas of the island was the 'Battle of Leyte Gulf'. The event occurred on October 1944. Its historical significance was the reclamation of the Allied forces of the island that spelled a crucial element for the victory of both Americans and Filipinos against the invading Japanese in the Philippines during the Second World War.
The island of Leyte is composed of three (3) cities and forty (40) municipalities. The municipalities had been gathered into six (6) legislative or congressional districts. Tacloban City, the island’s main city had been declared highly-urbanized city way back 2008. However, the city of Ormoc is an independent component city. These two (2) cities have independent administration from the island itself meaning residents of these cities do not participate in electing provincial officials. The other city (technically speaking) is Baybay City.
The main commerce or business in Leyte is mainly depends on agriculture. Planting rice is the main thing especially in the lower flatter areas like in Tacloban. Another economic drive for the island is coconut farming and making coconut oil has been an income generating trade for the island as well. Fishing is another main source of income among locals. Having the largest geothermal plant in Asia, Leyte has become one of the Philippines' resource-rich provinces
The Festival of Festivals which is the 'Kasadya-an' showcases the uniqueness and colorful history of Leyte. The word 'Kasadya-an' itself means gaiety, merrymaking or fun. The festivity is defined by lively, lovely and colorful parade that everybody would enjoy to see! The natives, in honoring the miraculous Señor Sto.Niño de Leyte, have their bodies painted (as Pintados). This has been a practice since the early times of the locals' conversion to Christianity. This festivity has become one of the landmark occasions in Leyte. It only happens annually on the month end of June.
Leyte Island's significance can never be completed without understanding or being aware of its history. I honestly had some goose bumps before getting to the island as I read the complete account of the battle of Leyte. I even pushed a simple tour around some safe locations in the Leyte Gulf just to fully understand and at least be one with those who had fought and offered their lives for the sake of freedom and this island. As for me, experiencing is 'experiencing as'.
This Iloilo sightseeing guide can show you some of the best tourist spots to drop by when in the province. Although there are scores of places you can check out, these landmarks are among the sites you shouldn’t miss out on.
Iloilo sightseeing guide: historical sites
One of the most popular locations is the Japanese Fortification, which was built by the Japanese during the war. The remains are still visible and can give one insights into the situation during the war era. Another landmark is the Plaza Libertad, located in the capital city. It is the place where the flag of the Republic was raised following the surrender of the Spaniards.
When in the city you might also want to visit other famed landmarks such as the Spanish Bailiwick, a fortress, the Andonna Creek (landing location of the datus), the Molo District and Fort San Pedro. This was an edifice developed by the Spaniards sometime in the 1600s and the site of numerous battles against the US forces and also the Dutch.
Iloilo sightseeing guide: cultural locations
The Guimbal Watchtowers, located some 30 km off the capital, was established as a warning beacon against pirates and invaders headed to the city. Although very old enough remains to give one the idea of the important role the structure played in olden times.
The residence of Magdalena Jalandoni is another cultural highlight of Iloilo. A well known and respected artist, the venue has now become the place where her priceless works are presented.
The Rosendo Mejica Museum hosts several important historical documents in Spanish, English and Hiligayon, as well as other relics, while downtown Iloilo has several old style buildings from the American and Spanish periods. Another cultural landmark not to be missed is Jaro, where several colonial houses of the Spaniards remain standing.
Iloilo sightseeing guide: nature spots
The Isla de Higantes (the Isle of the Giants) is renowned for the presence of human remains that have been dated from the 15th century. Besides the cave, the naturally formed pool is another popular landmark. The Cataan Cave, situated off San Joaquin, is popular among diving enthusiasts.
Other natural hotspots are the Darangkulan Waterfall, Nagpana Falls, Tinagong Dagat, and Sicogon Island, where exquisite white sand surrounds the shores.
Iloilo sightseeing guide: religious shrines
There are several churches in the province that not only highlight the importance of religion but also give insights into the history of the province. Among the sites that tourists often go to are the Santa Barbara Church, Tigbauan Church, the Church of Cabatuan and the Pavia Church.
An Iloilo sightseeing guide can only provide a sampling of the delectable sights that await you in the island. With its mix of natural, cultural and historical landmarks, you’ll definitely want to make this island province a part of your itinerary.
As the Philippines' top tourism destination, the beautiful island of Bohol not only dazzles the eye, but also offers you a paradise on Earth. In a small exclusive beach resort in Panglao Island, you can find a place nearest to the legendary paradise of Eden - the Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa.
Located just 25 minutes from Tagbilaran City airport, the Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa is a long stretch of powdery white sand that rivals the world-famous Boracay. More than 600 meters of sun and sand assures visitors a whole day of fun dipping in blue, crystal-clear waters.
The Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa is not your usual beach resort. Guests can expect the best luxury and comfort in the privacy of several native villas with their own swimming pools. The boutique-style resort boasts of these thatched villas made of local materials such as wood, bamboo and rattan. But that is just the outside.
Inside each luxury villa, you can find modern amenities blending in perfect unison with native Filipino architectural design. You can relax in a tropical, Filipino-style setting while watching cable TV or listening to music on state-of-the-art iPod speakers.
Of course, a world-class resort accommodation wouldn't be complete without their stylish, luxurious air-conditioned bedrooms with king-sized bed, bathroom, mini-bar, safety deposit boxes and other modern amenities. Each villa also has its own personal, landscaped garden so that you can enjoy nature inside your own private abode. Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa offers that and many more!
The infinity pool which looks like it is a connected to the sea is also worth looking and taking a dip into. All around the resort are beautiful trees, plants and flowers that gives you a feeling of paradise. You can also go swimming and sunbathing in the white sand beach or just relax around the swimming pools.
In terms of fine dining, Eskaya's Lantawan Restaurant offers the delicious food and drinks amidst a natural scenery. You can even have alfresco-style dining along the beach, complete with your own personal butler.
If you're looking for more adventure, it's great to know that Bohol has more than just sandy beaches. Tourists and guests can visit the famed Chocolate Hills, go on a
blissful river cruise along Loboc River, cuddle the cute but endangered tarsier, or watch cavorting dolphins and whales in Pamilacan Island. These memorable trips can be arranged by the friendly staff of Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa.
This fabulous beach resort opened just last May, 2007, so don't be surprised if it's not yet a household name in Philippine travel and tourism. So the next time you go to Bohol, don't forget to head off to the newest and most luxurious hideaway in the island - Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa.
[Tags]Bohol, Philippines, Visayas, Resort, Beach, Eskaya, Traveling, Travel, Spa[/Tags]
Situated not more than 3 hours from Manila, Pagsanjan offers tourists a different brand of adventure that is sure to make stories 'you-would-want-to-tell-your-grandchildren' about.
For years, tourists have flocked to this cozy little town in Laguna to see the famed Pagsanjan Falls. What most don't know is that aside from the Falls, it's actually the journey to get there that makes the destination all the more memorable.
Everything starts in the town plaza where one can get a boat ride for P660. Take-off would normally be from the Lodge where the tourists have their accommodations with each boat having 2-3 passengers plus two boatmen who navigate and steer.
The 2 hour boat ride to the Falls will then take you to a series of upstream rapids - 14 in all - as the two boatmen squeeze you through huge boulders amidst strong current and oncoming boats on their way down from the falls!
The boatmen themselves is sure to strike awe in any tourist as they deftly hop from one side of the boat to the other running over huge rocks or on cliff walls as they agilely guide the boat through the narrow passages of the gorge.
In between each rapid is a pause where you will be paddling across calm waters. It is here where one can really appreciate the scenery as you would be surrounded by tropical vegetation growing from 300 ft high rock cliffs situated on both sides of the river. A humbling experience, as you suddenly realize that you are witnessing the handiwork of a thousand years that Nature sculpted over this grand and live canvas.
After braving the rapids, the Falls itself are a sight to behold and one can't help but feel refreshed with its cold and clear waters splashing unto your body as a bamboo raft can take you right under it for an additional P20. Inside the Falls is a cave where one can rest while listening to the soothing sound of falling water.
And just when you think that you're done, here comes the best part! Unlike other destinations where you leave with a sense of fading climax, the journey home from the Falls is even more better as you and your boatmen can expect a wild ride down the rapids.
If you thought that the ride up was fantastic, you better hang on to your seats as the ride down is going to be insane! Going through the narrow gaps that you passed through on your way up to the Falls definitely won't compare to the rush of going through the same route on your way down as the current accelerates and propels you home with an experience that only Pagsanjan can give!
So what are you waiting for? Let's go shoot the Rapids!
If you are a person with busy life style and you are tired from all of the hectic schedules you have, all you need is a great vacation hideaway and some nice beaches and friendly people to accompany you.
Why not try to have a vacation in some tropical paradise to wash away that stress. Undoubtedly, the Philippines is an excellent place to go. With its 7,100 plus islands, there are so many choices for your own satisfaction. With so many islands, there is no surprise that it is called “Asia’s beach capital.”
The beaches crystal blue waters and fine, white sands are the most frequently visited tourist destinations in the Philippines by the locals and foreigners.
Here is the list of some famous beaches in the Philippines that are popular tourist destinations throughout the year.
Most tourists prefer Boracay Beach as their travel destinations in the country. Boracay Beach is one of the prides of Philippine beaches for its powder white sands, covering a 4-kilometer coastline. It is also one of the ‘finest beaches in the world’. The vibrant nightlife is another reason why tourists love Boracay Beach.
Another great vacation hideaway is the island of Puerto Galera in Mindoro, it is one of the best diving spots in Philippine beaches- a perfect getaway for diving enthusiasts.
And if you are a nature lover and a beach bum person, El Nido in Palawan is the right place for you. El Nido is loaded of unspoiled beaches, coral reefs, and crystal blue water; it is also the country’s last frontier- a paradise for tourists like you.
Moreover, let us not forget Honda Bay in Palawan as one of the top Philippine beaches in the country; perfect for snorkeling and diving. With islets dotting in the bay with fine sand beaches, island hopping is one of the exciting activity at Honda Bay.
In addition, we cannot fail to bring up the superb beach resort and majestic Pearl Farm in Davao. It was once a pearl farm inhabited by thousands of cultivated oysters yielding white, pink, and gold pearls. It will surely compliment your vacation with its picturesque landscapes and seascapes.
We only mentioned some of the top finest beaches in the Philippines but we assure you that it would complete your list of reasons of having a break apart from your enduring stress and vexing co-workers. Taking a break to Philippine beaches is definitely a way to spend your invaluable time.
In the early 1990’s, the United States Armed Forces said their farewell to the locals of Olongapo, particularly to the place known as Subic Bay. The said place was described to be as one of the most strategic location for military base or fortification. History attested that there were many fateful naval battles that could be related to the area. Nonetheless, the years of the American occupation of the place had drastically changed it. American Army had left state-of-the-art facilities and thus giving the locals their economic advantages.
The SBMA Health and Safety Group provide excellent outpatient and round the clock emergency health concern services. It has three (3) medical channels in the region - the New Terminal Clinic at the Subic Bay International Airport and the SBMA Dispensary at Dewey Ave. and in Cubi. The group also carries out health inspection, precautionary health plans and training courses to employees through pre-employment and annual physical examinations.
Peace and order is professionally preserved in the Freeport. The SBMA Law Enforcement Department efficiently implements traffic rules and regulations, and upholds a border defense through standard canine and mobile watches all around the area. As part of its Law Enforcement and physical security roles, the Law Enforcement Department (or LED) also remains a special ranger guard group to defend the area’s forests from being misused.
International Banking Organizations proffer financing amenities, investment services and electronic banking. Facilities such as internet service providers, postal and courier (along with easy access to all forms of mass media), connect residents of the Subic to the world.
The presence of international schools and notable educational institutions (colleges, graduate schools, computer schools, science schools and technological institutions) at Subic had made the place a suitable area for education. Special Education or SPED is also available for exceptionally brilliant, mentally talented and skillful individuals.
The use of internet or the World Wide Web has been a very practical tool for the continual growth and progress of Subic Bay area in terms of economy and tourism. The http://www.sbma.com/ is a good reference online which provides an overall view of what Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority is all about. It gives information about the commercial and industrial area known as the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. This site is a-must especially for first time tourists or potential business entrepreneurs.
One of the perks of being in Manila and actually living in it is that one is always assured that good medical care is just a stone’s throw away. Manila hospitals have distinguished doctors, the latest medical equipment and are more than adequately equipped to meet any emergency.
The Asian Hospital and Medical Center is a fairly new health facility in the southern part of Metro Manila and it only opened last 2002. This Manila hospital has a 217 bed capacity and has in its employ over a thousand healthcare providers including outsourced staff. Asian Hospital and Medical Center is all about personal touch and its mission is to become a world class healthcare provider. It’s comforting to know that this Manila hospital is open 24 hours in case of emergencies, has outpatient services, intensive care beds, provide services for clinical nutrition, lab tests and other tertiary facilities. Being confined at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center is really not any different from staying in a hotel because of how comfortable the patient rooms are for both patients and visitors. This Manila hospital specializes in medicine, dermatology, anesthesiology, emergency medicine and dental medicine to name a few.
Three years after it first opened, Asian Hospital and Medical Center received 3 awards for being the Best Hospital, Most Outstanding Modern Hospital and Best Modern Hospital. One will be surprised and glad to know that this Manila hospital has partnered with the Departments of Tourism and Health when it comes to Medical Tourism. Many of the patients that have been confined or consulted a physician at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center agree that this is a place where happiness and healing are synonymous.
Now St. Luke’s Medical Center is a hospital that has been around for a long time but it certainly doesn’t feel outdated and it isn’t. The most prestigious international accreditation body when it comes to healthcare has accredited this Manila hospital and this accreditation speaks a lot of in terms of meeting and exceeding international standards. St. Luke’s Medical Center uses modern technology when it comes to determining the physical and mental state of the patient and they are big on research and biotechnology. Found in the northern part of Metro Manila, St. Luke’s Medical Center is in Quezon City and they have 13 departments for primary health. The executive check up program of St. Luke’s Medical Center is commendable and they have wellness packages to help their patients prevent and cure sickness so they can lead a longer and more rewarding life. St. Luke’s Medical Center offers several packages depending on what the patient needs and rest assured at the end of it, one will feel like a new man.