The Philippines is blessed with many travel destinations. Each island has something to offer, waiting to be discovered by some intrepid traveler. Most of all each discovery tends to linger in one’s memory.
On the northern part of the archipelago lie its biggest island, Luzon and its numerous mountain ranges inhabited by several religious, industrious tribes. Centuries of their culture and work produced the Banaue Rice Terraces, a prominent travel destination worldwide. While some parts have fallen to modern civilization with concrete fences supporting terraces, they have still retained their ancient wonder that it is considered a must-see travel destination.
Just near the lower end of Luzon, lies another important travel destination, Mayon Volcano. Straddling southern towns and often spewing ash or causing minor tremors, this active volcano has retained its near-perfect cone shape just like its more popular cousin and Japan’s famous travel destination, Mt. Fuji.
The province of Bohol lies near the heart of the Philippines. It is the home of one of the world’s smallest primates, the Philippine tarsier (Tarsius syrichta). Its most famous travel destination is the Chocolate Hills which earned its name when they turn chocolate brown at the end of the dry season. Bohol is also a travel destination because of its beautiful white sand beaches.
Speaking of beaches, nothing comes close to Boracay located north of the island of Panay. Its white sand beaches are a major travel destination worldwide and it is brimming with tourists during the summer and holiday seasons.
Manila, the country’s capital and also a travel destination by itself, can also be found in Luzon. It is the center of commerce, industry, politics and entertainment. Major historical landmarks such as Jose Rizal’s execution site now transformed into a children’s park is found here. Manila also serves as a major entry or exit point to travel destinations world- and nationwide.
Just west of Luzon lies a cluster of islands commonly known as province of Palawan. The province has earned its reputation as a major international travel destination due to its pristine white sand beaches. Its most famous gem is the Tubbataha Reef, the archipelago’s second World Heritage Site alongside the Banaue Rice Terraces. While the Tubbataha Reef is another travel destination that should be experience by itself, the province of Palawan boasts of other natural wonders such as the kilometers-long underground river.
The Philippines offers a lot more than just ancient and natural wonders. Aside from its beaches and heritage sites, its picturesque towns are home to close to 70 million people known for their smiles and genuine hospitality. It is not surprising that millions flock and make the archipelago their travel destination at least once in their lifetimes.
Tagbilaran is the capital of Bohol and it is a place that has deeply embedded in its history centuries of friendship and peace. Dubbed one of the friendliest places in the Philippines, Tagbilaran destinations are not only places of learning but are also locations where lasting friendships are made.
One might think that a blood compact and a whole site dedicated to it is something very morbid but contrary to one’s first thoughts, this Tagbilaran destination is part of the place’s rich history. The Blood Compact Site is where the chieftain Datu Sikatuna forged a blood compact with the then King of Spain as a signal of friendly relations between the two nations. The marker that points to the Blood Compact Site is said to be the place where the very first Friendship Treaty was entered into without the need of a common language and it was done in 1565. The Blood Compact Site is where friendship between the brown and white skinned first fostered. This historic event is indeed historical because it was one of the contributing factors that caused the Filipinos to welcome the Spaniards with open arms and it was the start of the latter’s peaceful reign. It is just as important in Philippine history as the President Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Park.
Since we’re into history, another good place to visit aside from the Blood Compact Site is the President Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Park. This Tagbilaran destination is located right in Tagbilaran City and it is meant to honor the late President Carlos P. Garcia, a figure admired by many Filipinos up to this very day. President Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Park was built through joint efforts of Boholanos all over the country and even abroad and the bronze statue is the main attraction here. This statue that stands in the middle of the 11 hectare property of this Tagbilaran destination is life-size and made by the national artist Abueva. The President Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Park is just as important and historic as the Blood Compact Site because Former President Garcia was the 4th President of the Philippines, 1st of the 1971 Constitutional Convention and did many good things to alleviate the plight of Filipinos living in poverty.
Moving away from historical sites such as the President Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Park, among the many Tagbilaran destinations are the beaches in the area. There are several beaches that make excellent Tagbilaran destinations such as the Anda Beach, Bay Watch and Darak Beach. These beaches provide the perfect place for unwinding and relaxation.
During the height of the American bases in the Philippines, Subic Bay was developed as an international strategic army outpost. Nowadays, this state-of-the-art facility has been a tourist attraction (noted for beach resorts) and an industrial and commercial region known as the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The place is under the administration of SBMA or Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.
During the late 1800's and 1940's, Subic Bay had been the venue or the battle ground between the warring American army against Spanish military and the Japanese militia (First and Second World War). These destructive events in history had resulted casualties that had been literally embedded in its seafloor as shipwrecks. Here are some distinguished sea wreckages that could be found in Subic Bay. During the span of the Spanish-American War, naval ships like the San Quentin and El Capitan of the navy unit of Spain suffered heavy blows from the American offensive attacks. Oryoku Maru (dubbed as Hell Ship) was submerged by intense firepower from American fighters.
The ship sank with more than 1500 British and American prisoners of war. LST or the Landing Ship Tank, the old United States Ship New York or USS New York (ACR-2, but was renamed as USS Rochester or CA-2) and Seian Maru were also the casualties during the Second World War. Nonetheless, the present day Subic Bay has emerged to be a symbol of progress rising up from its dreaded past.
Visiting the Subic Bay area is just an hour and a half away from the busy streets of Metropolitan Manila. The SBMA has an international airport that serves international tourists and visitors. Upon the completion of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, land access would be more available from Clarkfield, Pampanga (within thirty minutes drive away) where another international airport is located (Diosdado Macapagal International Airport).
The hassle of some travel technicalities would be shouldered by these following travel agencies: Freeport Services Corporation (Bldg.710, Subic Bay Freeport Zone), Winstar Transport Services (Bldg.1124 Argonaut Highway, Subic Bay Freeport Zone), Jang-Gu Travel Agency, Inc. (Bldg. H-8811, Rizal Highway (Subic Korean Restaurant), MGfnd (Subic), Inc (Lot P-1m SBIP Phase 1, Rizal Highway corner Perimeter Road) and Taikang Travel and Tours, Inc. (ITTI). There are a lot of travel agencies that give vacation packages for Subic Bay getaway. Searching the internet is strongly suggested for updated information regarding these travel and tours agencies.
The Philippine Archipelago is composed of more than 7,100 islands, so what better place to do your island-hopping than in this tropical paradise located in South-East Asia and surrounded by the Pacific Ocean.
The climate is perfect for local and foreign tourists who love the sun, the beach and the sand. The Philippines boasts of long stretches of white sand beaches
and offers first class resort facilities and five-star accommodations that include excellent food and drinks, spas, clubs, entertainment and various water activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, surfing and other water sports.
For the adventurous, the country is blessed with verdant forests and mountains excellent for climbing. Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and cool breeze on top of these mountain villages that are endowed with beautiful flora and fauna. Shoot the rapids in Pagsanjan or go bunjee jumping in Subic. One can also try white water rafting in Cagayan de Oro, ride a balloon in Clark Field, Pampanga during the Hot air Balloon Festival or explore the underwater caves of Palawan.
For the romantic and religious, visit the different museums and centuries-old churches. Enjoy the festival parades that boast of colorful mardi gras costumes and street dancing. Climb the mysterious Mount Banahaw, apopular destination during the Lenten season. Also try the different native delicacies that are exclusive to the region. Go on a religious retreat in Tagaytay, the Capuchin Retreat House in Lipa, Batangas or visit that “out of the way” place called Caleruega, also in Batangas and get close to nature and to God.
Tourists can learn about the rich culture and history of the Philippines by visiting museums and historic places like Corregidor Island, Cebu, Fort Santiago and Malacanang Palace in the City of Manila, Leyte, Malolos Bulacan, Cavite, Vigan and Bataan.
Shop till you drop and enjoy the best choices in the giant Malls and department stores. Bargain-hunters will surely have a feast haggling and getting big discounts and bargains in the flea markets of Quiapo, Baclaran and Divisoria.
Fall in love with the warm welcoming smiles of the people as they go about their daily activities. The Filipinos are generally polite and are almost always willing to help.
Nature Lovers, City dwellers, Adventure-seeking Individuals, Romantics, and those who are just tired of the pressures of the daily grind, have a different kind of high by island-hopping in the Philippines.
Enjoy and experience the unparalleled hospitality and cheerful fun of the Filipinos and you’ll find yourself coming back over and over again!
PopularTourist Destinations in the Philippines:
Luzon:
Pagudpud
Banawe Rice Terraces
Baguio City
Pagsanjan Falls
Vigan
Hundred Isalands, Pangasinan
Bicol
Batangas
Tagaytay
Subic Bay
Siargao Island
Visayas
Palawan
Cebu
Bohol
Boracay Island
Guimaras Island
Mindanao
Cagayan de Oro
Camiguin Island
Davao
Zamboanga
The Philippines is known as "The Pearl of the Orient" probably because of the treasure and the beauty that visitors can find in the 7,107 islands this archipelago has. This Southeast Asian country is divided into three major parts and these are Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. It has 15 regions: Regions I-XII, Cordillera Autonomous Region, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao and National Capital Region.
Whatever your reason for visiting the Philippines is, there is a destination that can fit your personality. If you just want to take in the view and just relax, you can go to Baguio (which is the summer capital of the country) or to Tagaytay. If you are a water person, there are just a lot of beaches and dive sites to swim into. If you're the adventurous type, you'll never run out of mountains, volcanoes and caves to explore.
If you're a first-time tourist, you definitely have to go to the world-famous Boracay Island. Everybody craves its sun, sea and sand. You don't even need a map to go there coz everybody's headed there. We’re not kidding you about this. People lovingly nicknamed the place "Bora" as the place is so friendly people want to be on a first name basis with the place.
There are endless events and parties that are happening where everybody seems to know each other and everybody is having a lot of fun. Aside from entertainment, the place boasts of its food, banana boats, jet-skiing, parasailing and other water sports, and of course, the white sandy beaches.
Since Manila is the capital of the Philippines, it is a must-see. Forget what Claire Danes said about Manila. Go to Manila to prove her wrong. Through the efforts of outgoing Manila Mayor Lito Atienza, he made the city alive again with his "Buhayin ang Maynila" program. Everybody loves the Baywalk on Roxas Boulevard. You can chill in the many restaurants lining the area. If you're lucky enough, you'll be able to catch the lovely sunset at Manila Bay.
Want to see the eighth wonder of the world? Then fly to the Cordillera Autonomous Region where the Banawe Rice Terraces are. Be amazed to see the proof of Filipino ingenuity.
Are you curious about the world's smallest monkey? Then off to Bohol you go! Not only will you be able to hold the tarsier in the palm of your hand (it's that small!), there's the view of the Chocolate Hills that can awe you.
Other favorite tourist spots include The Hundred Islands, Taal Volcano, Mayon Volcano, Palawan Coron Bay, Siargao Island and Puerto Galera.
Aside from these magnificent places, I'm proud to say that Filipino hospitality makes the Philippines a gem for tourists.
Ready to book your ticket?
I was not feeling well the first (1st) time I traveled at the island of Bohol particularly at Tagbilaran City. One of my siblings was actually assigned at Tagbilaran City for almost six (6) months regarding a project. That was the reason why I was almost bedridden and just stayed at my brother's apartment during my entire stay in Bohol Island. Nonetheless, I have a hobby or a workaround whenever I would be stuck in a certain place. I would always look for something to read about information about the place itself. It was really automatic for me since high school when I started to be away from my parents more often than not. Of course the first (1st) place I read about was all about Makati. After that, whenever we traveled to Tagaytay City, Batangas or at any place, I made sure I was well-versed regarding some 'info-stuffs' in my head.
I tried to look for a short of a leaflet, a short manual or a tourist handout about Bohol Island in my bag and I was not able to get one. I just remembered that I must had left it with my food wrappers and trashes then threw or accidentally left it in the ferry (for the record, I would rather take a ferry boat than to have a short flight via airplane. Life is a journey indeed!) I asked my brother’s housekeeper if they there were books to read and check. She told me that it seemed that the last occupants left elementary or high school books and they were kept in the cabinet. My boredom gave me a bit of a lift and motivation to check those books. 'Eureka!' I said when I found an old edition high school history book written none other than Gregorio F. Zaide-I called this guy a master because ever since I started studying history formally, his name was always under the line 'author'. I checked the table of contents and browsed ahead to the Bohol Island section.
According to what was written or published, Tagbilaran has been considered as the 'Bool Kingdom' way back the fifteenth (15th) century. The name 'Tagbilaran', however, is still indistinct to many historians until this date. They said that the first (1st) name of Tagbilaran is 'Tinabilan' which means covered or screened since the place was protected on the southwest by the island of Panglao. Other tradition or 'rendition' (I said), the term 'Tagbilaran' was etymologically derived from ‘Tagubilaan’-coined from two local dialect word 'Tagu' (meaning 'hide' or 'to hide') and 'Bilaan' (a known marauder Muslim tribe). Thus the word 'Tinabilan': a place hidden or unconcealed from the looting Muslims. Inflexion of the word to 'Tagbilaran' could have been derived from the Spanish conquerors.
Tagbilaran started as small settlements of locals who vowed to the influence or spirit of 'Anito' (pagan idol or god) in the lower Mansasa. The first (1st) locals of the place already practiced burying the dead as archeologists found a sort of burial grounds. The place had also established trade with Indonesia, Malaysia and China. When the Spaniards came, the establishment of a more civilized and advanced community was made possible at Sitio Ubos. To fully establish a government, the Spaniards built a cathedral.
All of a sudden, I experienced a bit of goose bumps for some reason (maybe because of the medicine I took) Nonetheless, it seemed that I glanced a certain information regarding the place about a significant historical event that took place in this very place. Ever since I had read about ‘Sandugo’ or the famous 'Blood Compact', I feared about the pain that it inflicted to the participants. Little less I that I was aware of that it was really a very significant historical event and it marked a treaty or a sort of diplomacy between two nations. As soon as I read it, I called my brother and told him to arrange a trip to the place of 'Sandugo' as soon I felt better.
History is definitely a sort of a 'spirit' according to a modern philosopher. History is all about experiences, events and learning from these things. Tagbiliran City had made its choice since time immemorial to be amicable to others as per the symbolization of the Blood Compact or 'Sandugo'. History, as always, would be a key in making a place a symbol of significance.
Ever since my 'rationality' started to work, I had noticed that the wave of having a better chance of survival in life, moreover, a better kind of lifestyle was one or both parents needed to go and work outside the Philippines. My feeble mind always conditioned me that it was practical, but then I was aware that it has its repercussions or consequences. After having a sense of maturity, I guessed I was right in a way. Lack of presence from a parent or both parents had taken its toll on their child or children. I had a lot of classmates that had some issues identifying themselves as they grow. Not that they were confused of their gender, but it was more of being held responsible of what they should do. I was really thankful that in my school our support system was very compassionate of those who needed assistance. Unfortunately, not all of us have the same chance to have this kind of treatment.
At a young age, I believed that money should definitely a problem, but I was conscious that money was, is and would always be a big part or a major factor of life. The drive of consumerism and ‘compound interest’ had played its role making life in a higher notch and at the same time complicated (the great scientist was right about compound interest!) As for me, I did see the potentiality of the Philippines in terms of economic growth.
We are aware that there is an economic crunch going on for past few years in the international market. Those companies which had foreseen the crisis in advance had entered business process outsourcing line in doing commerce. It involved tapping potential human resources offshore and paying a lower labor cost and that made the difference in terms of survival in the world market. Philippines had been one of the countries chosen because of its competency in terms of talent and skills. Multitasking had been the greatest talent or skill a Filipino possess. Call centers companies thrive in the Philippines because of hardworking and dedicated 'Pinoys' (Filipinos) who know what they are doing. Whether it would be a technical and communication skill, we Filipinos have it! This is actually the reason why I seem not be attractive with the lucrative offers working outside this country. I really value the presence and importance of my family.
Filipinos are very family oriented. We value the importance family lineage. Recognizing this culture, the individual's formation, maturity and personal growth greatly depends on the exposure he or she has on his or her formative years. If this has been everybody’s concern, I am really positive that Philippines would definitely be economically competitive in no time and it is all because of talented individuals from families who give importance to moral values.
It’s not everyday that one goes to a Philippine tourist spot. Many times a lot of things to enjoy in a tourist spot are missed. This is simply because we do not know how to maximize our experience in a visit to a Philippine tourist spot.
Philippine tourist spots often have more things to offer than just the beautiful spot itself. Most of the time, these tourist spots are well developed for more tourism attractions. For us not to miss all there is to see and experience in tourist spots we have to know what to prepare and what to look for.
First, never forget the camera and to load the camera. Philippine tourist spots are worth taking pictures of. Then, always travel light. Leave luggage in a secure hotel or inn and take along only necessary things that fit a small belt or shoulder bag. Take enough cash according to the planned trip for the day. And never leave without a specific travel plan for the day.
In a tourist spot, always look for the information counter or desk. Ask for what the tourist spot can show, aside from the obvious. For instance, at Mines View Park in Baguio, there are other open terraces that afford other views of the mountains and deep ravines. With a little help from local vendors or tourist guides a trip to a tourist spot can be maximized. Luneta Park in Manila has lots of spots to offer tourists. And various times of the days there are mini programs in a specific spot of the Park. A short inquiry at the Park office would reveal minute details to maximize a visit to this tourist spot.
Luneta Park, for instance, has the Rizal Monument, Chinese and Japanese gardens, a Philippine archipelago replica, a café run by mute, blind, and deaf people, a huge grandstand, Manila Bay view, and an observatory, to name a few. Most tourists just peek at the Rizal Monument, take pictures there, and go. A foreign tourist might pass by Luneta Park and its various tourist spots just once and missing it’s entirety is a big tourist trip loss.
Get to know other visitors in a tourist spot and try to learn what tourist spots they have already visited. Ask their opinions and experiences about the places they have seen or gone to. This saves time and gets direct and fresh information straight from fellow tourists.
Traveling to Philippine tourist spots may be maximized to add to a total Philippine tourist spot experience.
The island of Palawan in the Philippines may be virtually unknown if there is no Puerto Princesa. Precisely because, logically speaking, it is the capital of the said island. Puerto Princesa City’s prestige as the capital of the Palawan Island goes beyond formality. It is all because of the beautiful assets this fair city has.
The name Puerto Princesa is hounded by a lot of theories. Folklore said it was due to a legendary princess that has a unique beauty that roam the beach during night time. Others attributed the name place because of its strategic location, being naturally secured from any weather types the whole year round. Thus, it was said to be a ‘Princes of Ports’. Nonetheless, according to history, it was named after a Spanish princess in the late 1800's. However, the untimely death of the queen (mother of the princess), the port was dedicated to her and the name was changed to Puerto de la Princesa and was eventually reduced to Puerto Princesa. The name definitely signifies beauty, prestige and esteem.
A journey to the island of Palawan would never be completed without visiting the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park or the Underground river of Palawan. The said tourist spot is located at Mount Saint Paul. It is an 8.2 kilometer stretch underground river where the starting point is a wonderful lagoon as the river’s opening. Inside the subterranean park, amazing stalactite and stalagmite formations can be seen and they seemed to glow or sparkle every time the lights from the carbide lamps hit them. The Puerto Princesa River National Park has been considered a world heritage site. Other than this famous subterranean attraction, the marine area of Palawan is considered to be a haven for diving enthusiasts.
The city of Puerto Princesa has a lot in store for its visitors. For the past years, the city has been developed to a first class city in the Philippines. Its main economic driver has been its eco-tourism industry. The said industry has caused an influx of people from all over the country and around the world. The official website (http://www.puertoprincesa.ph/) of Puerto Princesa is loaded with quick access information to give tourists an idea what to expect in Puerto Princesa City or in the Palawan Island. The nippy slide show of the assets of Puerto Princesa in the website would surely make visitors more thrilled to go to Palawan.
One of the many premium destinations in Asia can be found in the Philippines. Many tourists from around the world are now realizing that Philippine travel destinations are at par with other travel locations in and around the region of Asia. The outright availability of cheap hotel accommodations, tourism packages and better vacation promotions are just some of the reasons why Philippine travel destinations are enjoying better visitor outputs.
There are many destinations that can be found in the Philippines. The cheap resorts and vacation promos in the provinces that have long white sand beaches are the most popular ones. The beaches in Boracay, Cebu and Bohol are just some of the most admired destinations in the Philippines. Many European, American and Asian visitors enjoy the atmosphere of these destinations as their vacation experience.
Aside from the white sand beaches, there are also other Philippine travel destinations that can be visited. The historical locations in the Philippines are so rich that it can be mistaken as a European location in Asia. Tourism packages for Intramuros, fort Santiago and the old Spanish styled churches around the country are very much available. An appointment with a local tour guide is recommended.
Going to the Philippines can provide a very good experience especially to first time travelers. The availability of many conveniences for vacation spots is one way that can enhance the enjoyment of a visitor. The amount of expenses in these travel destinations can compensate to the once in a lifetime experience in visiting Philippine travel destinations. This equates to better attraction to many visitors who may want to take part in enriching their vacation quality.
Apart form the usual conveniences that were mentioned, there are also other transaction based conveniences that may be availed when going to Philippine travel destinations. The ease in payment options and the availability of tourist facilities are the most prioritized service. Credit card payments are always available to many establishments that can be found in various vacation spots and all other tourist areas.
Having a wonderful vacation experience and a fulfilling leisurely travel tour can somewhat give an memorable time for many visitors and tourists. In order to get the most out of any vacation activity, the inclusion of conveniences and tourist services may well spell the fulfillment of vacation based businesses. This will allow a good advertisement process for many tourists that have not yet tried visiting a Philippine travel location.
