Tourists will be able to do several things and see many places in the Philippines. One of the wonderful places in the country is just two hours ago by car. It is Subic located in the Zambales province. There are many things friends and families can do in Subic. A family living in the city can enjoy a lot of rare experiences in Subic. The nature is well preserved in Subic. The following are some of the good things a family or a group of friends can do in Subic:
1. Subic rainforest and the Subic zoo.
The rainforest in Subic is one of the best in the northern island of Luzon. As one drives along the area you will pass by lush forests on each side. There are several monkeys on the street that you might happen to see as you pass by. There is one place there where many bats live. These are some things not common for many people living in urbanized areas. There is a group there that promotes this eco-tourism in the rainforest as a jungle survival trekking / survival tour and they will show you how you can survive in the rainforest with nature around you.
Subic zoo is another place you should never miss out. They offer different animals for you to see. There are some tigers and other animals which are considered exotic. There is a sanctuary for crocodiles and a place with many snakes. You can ride an enclosed jeep and see the tigers roaming about. This is the safari tour which costs three hundred ninety five pesos on a weekend and two hundred ninety five pesos on a weekday.
2. Subic outdoor activities.
There are many things you can do in Subic which are mostly done outdoors. You can have an enjoyable time riding horses in the place called El Kabayo. Subic has a lot of beaches as well. There are many resorts to choose from. The sand in Subic is white and the water is clean and blue. You can do the usual water activities you can enjoy in Boracay or Puerto Galera but you don’t have to go that far from Manila. There are plenty of hotels where you and your friends can stay. There are some hotels with a water park of their own and some have casinos.
Ocean Adventure is another must see place in Subic. This is the version of the ocean world in the United States. It is not bigger than the one in America however it still offers many kids and adults the chance to see dolphin or whale shows. For a certain additional fee you can even mingle with the sea animals. You can also see sea lions and their show.
Subic has become the Philippine’s major attraction for local and foreign tourists. If you live in Manila you should see Subic and discover that it might be your weekend getaway once in a while.
Philippine succulent mangoes are among the well patronized products in the international market since early times. One of the Philippine myths on the mango fruit goes this way.
Long time ago, so this Philippine myth goes, in a wooden villa deep in the forest was a beautiful lady. An only daughter of an old, old couple, they wanted her married as soon as possible. They feared dying without seeing her married. This Philippine myth says Pangga was her name, meaning “object of love” in the vernacular. Aside from her arresting natural pulchritude, she was very industrious, kind, and smart with rustic wisdom. Moreover, Pangga knew a lot of trade skills that had earned her quite a bit of money. Thus, her parents wanted nothing but the best man for her.
But Pangga fell for a local poet, a professional dreamer. He was known in the village as a desperate writer whose works of poetry made meager money. This Philippine myth continues that Manong, the dreamer, lived in the fields and slept in mangers. He was the town’s vagrant. But one thing about him; he had a knack for speaking sweet nothings, a full-pledged sweet talker who could promise the sun, moon and stars to the one his eyes beheld. Girls in town went crazy for him (though they never bought his poems) but his eyes were only for Pangga.
His sweet nothings never fooled old folks, though. His own parents, when still alive, often remarked “Please cut out the sweet pleasantries!” when he was at his verbal talent again. In the vernacular the remark went “Manong magtigil ka nga!” So, as this Philippine myth goes, they gave him the nickname Manong.
Pangga’s parents never bought Manong’s promises of bringing down the sun and moon to shine on their forest-dimmed bungalow and other sweet nothings. “You’re always saying that sun-moon conversation of yours. That’s all you know!” Pangga’s parents mocked him. But Manong and Pangga sought to stubbornly keep their love vows till their dying day. Then, the Philippine myth says, one day they disappeared in the woods.
The Philippine myth ends with a discovery of a new kind of tree. Its fruit was a bit crescent-shaped like the moon, yellow like the sun, and sweet like Manong’s tongue. It was rich in nutrition as Pangga’s multi-faceted genius. In time it was called “Manga,” a mix of their names, and today’s vernacular for mango.
The Philippine myth on mango fruits is a local version of Romeo and Juliet but which went sweeter as to create a sweet offspring---the mango fruit.
If a tourist, by chance would be wandering around and see the beauty of the Philippines, he or she should see and experience the wonders of Butuan City. It has been asserted that, 'in the beginning, there was no Philippines but there was Butuan', and this assertion makes this place a symbol of civilization for the Philippines. The real question is: 'what can I expect in Butuan City?'
A tourist or visitor should never miss these places if he or she would have a chance staying in Butuan City. The following places are landmarks that define the identity of this wonderful city.
Ever seen a majestic view? Then this place would be the best offering Butuan would give. Located at the southwest part of Agusan Valley, a haven of grandiose mountain plateau awaits visiting tourists. This mountain highland rises 2,214 feet above sea level and its name was derived for ancient Madjapahit Empire. Butuan’s archaeological unearthing and prehistoric discoveries were tied up significantly to Sri-Vishaya era.
This museum serves as Butuan’s bulwark of rich cultural heritage and prehistoric existence or survival. There are two (2) galleries of exhibit one is the Archeological Hall which caters varieties of burial coffins, goldsmith, potteries, wood, metal and stone crafts and the exhibits also includes archaeological diggings. The Ethnological Hall (the other exhibit) showcases current cultural materials the locals of Butuan or Butuanon or every 'Pinoy' (Filipino) used for a living.
The Balangay Shrine Museum is situated at Balanghay, Libertad, Butuan City. This graveyard of Balangay One (1) was dated 320 A.D. or has already been 1688 years old. This 'balangay' is a built of wooden plank and edge-pegged vessels that have an average measurement of three (3) meters in width and fifteen (15) meters in height. As of now, there are already nine (9) balangays discoverded in Ambangan, Libertad spots. In Situ, however, there were three balangays (3) that have been excavated.
Agusan River is considered the longest, the deepest and the widest traversable river in Mindanao. The people, arts, culture and history of Butuan could be realized or seen if a tourist journey along the river barangays. They usually held their fluvial parade to honor and pay tribute to the Patroness of the river Señora Santa Ana. This has been the Abayan Festival a whole day celebration of fluvial convoy and baroto races at the Agusan River
Butuan City could be considered as the 'Cradle of Civilization' in the Philippines. The influence of the 'Balangays' are still prevalent even in this contemporary times. Municipalities are usually divided into units considered as ‘Barangays’ and the etymology of this word could be traced to those ancient vessels: 'the Balangays' meaning 'the sailboats'.
Take a look at Philippines’ history and culture reflected by old churches, forts and modern museums. Look at the finest three-layered forests and white-sand beaches.
Consecrated with far-reaching coastline, the Philippines are known to be pealed with good beaches and first class resorts. Its deep blue, crystal waters offer 40,000 square kilometers of different coral reefs swarming with mixtures of marine life.
Gifted with a tropical climate, the Philippines give a perfect treat to savor the sunlight. Located in Southeast Asia and bordered by the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines boasts of untainted beaches, extravagant sunsets, profuse pastoral lands, superb resorts, amazingly impressive islands, and a even areas that have cool weather that is brought by the mountains.
Feel the warmth of summer just by going to beaches like Boracay, which is found in Panay in the Western Visayas Region. You may also visit Panglao which is found in the province of Bohol. Capture the view of Sagada, Baguio, and Tagaytay, and have a dip in refreshing waters of different resorts.
There are many featured destinations found in the Philippines such as:
Donsol - found in the Sorsogon province, which is called “whale shark capital.”
Boracay – this is one of the best swimming destinations in the whole world. It has crystal clear waters which are perfect for swimming, fishing, sailing, snorkeling and sunbathing.
Guimaras – this is found in Nueva Valencia. It has 238.3-kilometer coastline. It has long stretches of powdery, white sand which is also known to be the best among the world.
Palawan – this place really has an exotic beauty. It is called “country’s last frontier.” It has more than a thousand islands and thousand islets, scenic rock formations, magnificent caves and underwater rivers.
Coron – a town which is found in Busuanga Island in Northen Palawan, it is said that men get charmed by its natural beauty.
Cebu City – branded as “queen city of the south.” This is a top provincial destination of foreign travelers.
Pagudpud – found in Ilocos. It is the best setting for photo shoots for travel magazine covers, panoramic movies. Its main attraction is Saud Beach, which is known for its fine white sand stretching for about a hundred meters and Maira-ira Piont, which hides a secluded beach that is called, Blue Lagoon. There are also breathtaking landscapes which include Bantay Abot-abot, a sculpture that is carved by the wind and the sea.
Bohol – one of the loveliest islands found in southern Philippines. This is found in Visayas region.
Panglao Island – many foreigners have beach activities here such as diving, snorkeling, and caving. This also area is also used for seminars, brainstorming, conventions, etc.
These are just some of the beautiful places found in the Philippines. Aside from these places, there’s a lot more you wish you could go and you should visit.
The capital city of Negros Oriental has a couple of hidden surprises in store when you go looking for quality education. Dumaguete City has one of the best institutions and Universities in the entire region and this city is called the University Town for no other reason than that. Discover the schools and campuses that are spread throughout this little city.
The Dumaguete education always has an international flair no matter which school or institute you may choose. The schools in town are plenty and there are a total of four Universities, namely Foundation University, NORSU which is short for Negros Oriental State University, Silliman University and Foundation University. The city also houses several language schools for foreign students and it also has various school of arts and dances such as Fu.N Shop and JFCGA College.
The Dumaguete education really allows you go do whatever you really wanted to do. If you do not find your field of choice in one school then you will surely find it in another school. Part of the Dumaguete Education is also a good graduate program that is offered by all the Universities cited above. Some of them even have a Ph.D program which attracts many foreign students.
All of the educational institutions in the Dumaguete Education system give opportunities to foreign students and talented students as well with theatre programs or music programs. The athletic programs in the Dumaguete Education System are also very popular and there are annual championships and competitions held. There are even special treats if you are part of these programs such as scholarships or grants.
Since we are already talking about scholarships and grants we should probably mention that the Dumaguete Education system rewards good academic performances with scholarships that differ from school to school and level to level. Even the graduate and the post graduate programs have grants that are available to candidates that qualify the requirements. These grants usually relief the student of the full tuition fee for every semester so that they can focus on their thesis or study.
The campuses in Dumaguete’s schools and Universities differ from each other. You can see the green and clean campus of Silliman University, tailored after its American sisters and brothers while we have a pretty closed and artsy campus when you go to Foundation University. The student body is comprised of 80% Filipino students, 10% Korean students, 6% Iranian students, 2% American and 2% of other minorities such as Chinese, German, Belgian, Spanish and other European and Asian students.
You now probably realize that the Dumaguete Education system is quite stunning and elaborate as well as the different kinds of schools and Universities that you can find in this small city. Enjoy the education that you can get and be enriched academically upon your visit.
Las Pinas City, Philippines dubs as a "City of Unparalleled Progress". Las Pinas City is one of the earliest settlements in Manila. From its roots to the present day, Las Pinas City has proven itself as a representative of rapid growth.
The beginnings of Las Pinas City can be traced back all the way to the 17th century when it used to be a barrio of Paranaque. It began as a little sleepy fishing village with only a little more than a thousand residents.
Father Diego Cera, a Spanish Missionary, gave Las Pinas a good push forward back in 1795 which led to the establishment of the Las Pinas Church in 1819 and the construction of the world famous Bamboo Organ. The commencement of infrastructure paved the way for industrial development in the area. The building of roads and bridges in what was to become Las Pinas City sparked the beginnings of industries, which included dye-making, salt production, and handicrafts.
Las Pinas City was also the scene of many battles between Filipino revolutionary fighters and the Spanish troops. These were dark days for Las Pinas City, nevertheless the people were able to rise from the bloody turmoil and push forward.
The construction of the South Superhighway gave Las Pinas a boost and the city was placed as first class. The close proximity of Las Pinas to Manila caught the eye of real estate companies and other investors. The coastal town was eventually transformed to an urban center catering to large industries.
Since then Las Pinas was recognized to have taken rapid strides in urbanization and has seen steady economic growth.
Las Pinas is home to the Las Pinas Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It stands as the voice of the city's business community. The organization's vision is to promote economic growth in Las Pinas City and advance the benefits of its members.
It aims to provide strategic business services and local and international networking to support the members of the chamber. The Las Pinas Chamber of Commerce and Industry is one of the 17 local chambers of commerce in the National Capital Region.
The chamber hosts monthly and bi-monthly meetings, conferences, and projects.
The most well known festival of Las Pinas is the International Bamboo Organ Festival. It is a week-long festival which highlights the world famous Bamboo Organ. The Bamboo Organ is a functioning instrument and was first played in 1821.
Accommodations in Las Pinas would range from Php 400 to more than Php 1,000. Las Pinas City is very accessible and is just moments away from Manila. If you wish to see one of the most historic sights in the country, or you may just be a lover fine music, or you may want to see what business opportunities await you try checking out Las Pinas City. You will surely enjoy your stay and have a first hand experience of Philippine history.
[Tags]Las Pinas, Philippines, Luzon[/Tags]
The best way to fully experience any new place you travel to is by living the way the locals do. By doing this, you may discover some pleasant quirks about the people that you may not have seen if you constrict yourself to conducted tours.
In the Philippines, touring without a guide is somewhat easier since a large percentage of the people are able to understand and speak English. If you have a question, don't be afraid to ask someone. There is nothing to fear since Filipinos are known to be very hospitable, especially to foreigners.
The first place to find a reliable local guide is in your very own hotel. Don't go the normal route by asking the concierge about tour packages, live a little by asking your bellboy where the best sisig (popular Filipino bar chow) in town is and he'll be happy to point the way.
For the adventure-seeking traveler, public transportation is the safest way to get around the city and see some sights along the way. Even getting onto a jeepney is a unique experience all by itself! Also, there are no definite stops in a trip so you can feel free to ask the driver to stop if ever you see anything that catches your fancy.
Some helpful tips on Philippine travel:
1. Always have some change with you. For public transportation, you'll be amazed at how far a dollar can take you.
2. Don't bring too much cash, if you run out, you can always find an ATM.
3. Always ask for your hotel's address card. In Manila, most cab drivers are familiar with the major hotels.
4. Bring an extra shirt or a towel; it's a tropical country, after all.
5. Don't be afraid to get lost. You don't know what you just might find.
6. Smile! Filipinos are very friendly; a lot of people might just smile back!
It won't be difficult to get around at all since most of the street signs are written in English and are easy to understand. There are also city maps sold in gas stations around the metro. These can serve as an easy guide on how to get to the sights that might not be in your itinerary.
Ultimately, the best way to experience a new culture is by allowing yourself to be swallowed by it. Let your inhibitions go, be open to seeing strange sights, tasting strange food, and receiving the warm welcome of the Filipino people.
Gloria Mendoza is a home businesswoman. She owns a bakery store right in front of her home and makes her products at her own backyard where she set-up a mini-factory. Her story is just one of the many success stories from this side of the world, in the Philippines, thanks to the government’s Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC).
The home business was built in 1992. She didn’t know anything about baking and relied heavily on the skills she acquired from TLRC. Her baker died two years prior to that and she nearly closed her bakery. But she mustered her strength and enrolled in TLRC and took up baking courses.
“I searched through newspapers and directories and it was there that I found TLRC.” She narrates. “I personally visited them and told them I wanted to learn because I didn’t know anything about baking.”
Gloria started taking courses at TLRC in 1994. First she enrolled in Basic Baking course and moved on to advanced courses like Bread-making, Cake Baking, and Cake Decorating. She has taken six courses in TLRC to date.
These are just some of the courses offered by TLRC. The center had already developed more than 300 courses in home-based, agri-aqua, and crafts-based business. The course also come in video and print formats which serve as references and easy-to-follow gyides for technology applications at home.
TLRC pioneered in the development of livelihood and business technology training aimed at providing would-be and practicing entrepreneurs with the skills and techniques in putting up and managing a business.
It continues to provide and disseminate knowledge, skills, technology as well as financial intervention through loans for the Filipino SMEs. They also have developed such as the Program for Countryside Economic Empowerment and Development (PROCEED) which aims to bring TLRC services all over the country. The program will establish Technology and Livelihood Development Centers (TLDCs) at the local level and will serve as channels for TLRC’s livelihood and technology programs.
The center was also able to promote the application of information technology Services Group (ITSG). ITSG pioneered the development and implementation of computer-related projects and also provides other information technology (IT) related services for the SMEs.
In 2001, SMEs started to enjoy a fast and easy access to TLRC’s programs through its e-Library project. It has made technology information and livelihood information available to local government units throughout the country.
After Gloria’s trainings at TLRC, she was able to supervise every detail of her baker business. “Using what I learned from TLRC, I was able to monitor the operations of my bakery,” she says.
She states everything that she had learned at TLRC, she was able to apply in her home business. At present, the bakery employs more than 20 personnel and earns a net income of P3,000 a day.
Samar is a popular and attractive province in southern Philippines since it is known for its rich culture and heritage. Throughout the year, many people visit the beautiful tourist spots in the province. However, to have an enjoyable, remarkable, and exciting vacation in the place, there are different Samar travel guides that people can look at to have ideas about the famous hospitality service providers in the province that offer reasonable rates. Additionally, the guides also offer information on restaurants that serve sumptuous and affordable meals to everyone.
Accommodations in Samar Travel Guide
For the convenience and comfort of travelers and tourists, most Samar travel guides feature a section on accommodations in the province. The section offers knowledge on the amenities as well as accommodation rates in several hospitality service providers in Samar, Philippines. To tourists who are in search for hotels that have attractive facilities, they can always make advance reservations at Dumpao Beach Resort, Jasmin Beach Resort, and Bobon Beach Resort. Meanwhile, for those who like to stay in lodges and inns that have affordable accommodations, they should visit Sogod Bay Lodge, Huraw Lodge, and Travelers Home Lodge Inn.
Dining in Samar Travel Guide
Another section in Samar travel guides that get the attention of travelers to the province is dining. By looking at this section, people can always look at the specialties of several restaurants and dining places in Samar, Philippines. For those who prefer to dine in places that serve both local and foreign cuisines, they can visit these dining places; Arnelli’s Pizza, Caluwayan Palm Island Resort and Restaurant, as well as C’Italian Dining.
Festivals
Most Samar travel guides also feature festivals and special events in Samar, Philippines. Hence, for tourists who want to observe some of the famous festivals in the province, they can refer to Samar travel guides for the details of the events. Most of these guides feature information like history and what to see in the attractive Samar festivals Kadayaw Festival, Parayan Harvest Festival, and Pasidungog Festival.
Tourist Destinations
Above all, Samar travel guides provide knowledge on tourist destinations or spots in Samar, Philippines. For people who like to see natural attractions in the province, they can always visit Panhulugan Cave, Shoton Cave, and Bugasan Cave. On the other hand, for individuals who plan to visit the province’s manmade attractions, they can visit Calbayog Cathedral, Basey 17th Century Church, and Shoton National Park. With the use of Samar travel guides, people can surely have a relaxing and worry-free visit to one of the famous provinces in southern Philippines, Samar.
Cebu has become a favorite place to go to among tourists and locals alike. Aside from the warm and friendly smiles that everyone is greeted with when in Cebu, there are also great beaches to go to. There are many activities to do while in Cebu and it’s a good idea to find a Cebu resort that allows one to maximize the Cebu experience
If one is a beach bum and is going to Cebu to enjoy their pristine white sand and turquoise sea, a Cebu resort worth considering is the Cebu Beach Club. This Cebu resort epitomizes the idea of a tropical vacation and one can chill out under the sun along the beach as long as possible. Aside from the beautiful environment with which Cebu Beach Club is located on, this resort is also only 15 minutes away from the airport so it’s very convenient. The staff at Cebu Beach Club are cordial and customer service is excellent at this place. In fact, at this Cebu resort, they make it a point to always to exceed their guests’ expectations and are very attentive to their needs. For a Cebu resort that is picture perfect, the Cebu Beach Club is relatively affordable, with rates starting from US$ 78 to 85. There are 48 rooms in total at this place and the amenities are air conditioning, mini bar, television, bathtub, a hair dryer and a bedside radio.
Another 3-star resort in Cebu is the Cebu Grand Hotel. Unlike the Cebu Beach Club which is a stone’s throw away from the beach, the Cebu Grand Hotel is located in the center of the city in close proximity to the business district. This is not to say however that just because they don’t have beach front rooms that this Cebu resort should no longer be considered. The Cebu Grand Hotel is taking a different approach by bringing their guests closer to what’s happening in the city so it’s ideal not just for families but for those traveling on business. Room rates at Cebu Grand Hotel starts at Php 2,700 and their facilities include a swimming pool, a business center, bar and restaurant, fitness gym, function rooms and even a barber shop and beauty salon. Each room has been built with its own in-room safe and cable television and the guest has the choice waking up every morning to a view of either the city or the mountains.