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.
The provincial capital of the northern part of Zamboanga is one that has scenic rolling hills and calm blue seas that are truly among nature’s wonders. Despite the fact that the city is highly
industrialized, this part of Zamboanga has managed to retain the beauty of its many natural wonders and this is one of the many reasons that both tourists and businessmen flock here. Known as the Orchid City, if one is planning a trip to Dipolog, it will help a lot if one knew what modes of transportation are available as options to see this magnificent city.
Going on a direct flight to Dipolog is indeed very convenient especially with the facilities of the Airport and it’s not a surprise that many prefer this mode of transportation to access the city. Today, there are 4 major airlines that offer flights to Dipolog City and these are Philippine Airlines, Asian Spirit, Cebu Pacific and Zest Air. During peak season, air fare is around Php3000 to Php5000 but during off peak season, these prices are slashed down to just around Php1000.
Getting there is also possible via land with the increasing efficiency of national highways on which these types of transportation traverse on. There are buses that leave Manila daily headed for Dipolog and although the trip could take over a day, this is the most affordable and one has the opportunity to see other provinces that the bus will pass through. This type of Dipolog transportation costs about Php1000 per head. So it is not going to break the bank at least.
For those who want to travel by sea going to Dipolog this form of transportation is also possible with major shipping companies making trips to this province in Zamboanga del Norte almost
everyday of the week. Ocean Jet, GP Lines, Super Ferry WG&A are among the maritime vessels that can safely take one to Dipolog.
When going around the city, there are various modes of transportation that one can use with jeepneys being the most common form of Dipolog Transportation and the cheapest. Tourists aren’t usually inclined to take jeepneys thinking they might get lost but here’s a tip, they travel a particular route. One can always ask the driver if it will pass by one’s destination or one can ask a local on what type of transportation to take. For short distances, it’s always the tricycle but for more comfortable rides, there are taxis in Dipolog City.
Puerto Galera’s fine white sand and light blue sea is an instant attraction to locals and foreigners alike. For those who want to bask in the sun or engage in a couple of water sports without spending a hefty amount, Puerto Galera tops the list as a holiday getaway. There are many other good things about Puerto Galera that are often overlooked. Take for instance the colorful Puerto Galera festivals celebrated annually which are very different from other celebrations in the country.
Puerto Galera is just about the only place that has a Banana Festival. Celebrated for a full 2 days in the month of March, this Puerto Galera festival is all about bananas which grow in abundance here. During the Banana Festival there are several competitions held including a banana cook fest where the participant who can come up with the best tasting dish with this fruit as the primary ingredient wins. The focus of this Puerto Galera festival is a particular type of banana called “saba” which is usually cooked prior to being served. The Banana Festival coincides with another local celebration in honor of Puerto Galera’s patron saint, St. Joseph so one can expect double the fun during this event. The Banana Festival is also highlighted by street dancing which the inhabitants prepare for a couple months before the actual celebration. The choreographed dances are performed by the residents adorned in colorful costumes and during the Banana Festival anyone is welcome to join the street party.
Another popular Puerto Galera festival that is highly anticipated is the Reggae Festival which is fairly new. Less than a decade old, the Reggae Festival was first celebrated four years ago in Puerto Galera with several bands participating and sound systems sponsored by big companies installed all over Puerto Galera. The Reggae Festival shows how much the Filipinos love music and that this particular genre has sub-genres that create a wonderful mixture of the traditional reggae with a taste of Filipino. This Puerto Galera festival is enjoyed by tourists and residents regardless of age because this is a chance to mingle under the common language of music. A couple of good bands are discovered during the Reggae Festival and the main attraction of the event is the massive party that goes on throughout the day and gets livelier at night. Resorts in Puerto Galera sponsor the Reggae Festival by providing beach side buffets at affordable prices during this Puerto Galera festival.
One of the most popular and developed cities in the southern region of the Philippines, Tagbilaran City in Bohol offers nice and attractive places for travelers and tourist. To offer comfort and convenience to everyone, the place plays home to numerous hotels or lodges that offer reasonable accommodation rates and well-maintained facilities. In addition, there are also restaurants in the city, where people can dine, unwind, and relax, with their friends and loved ones. Hence, for people who plan to visit the place, they can always take a look at Tagbilaran travel guide to avoid hassles and problems.
Tourist Attractions
One of the main features of Tagbilaran travel guides is the section wherein people can read information about the famous tourist attractions in Tagbilaran City, Philippines. For those who like to admire the beauty of manmade tourist spots in the place, most Tagbilaran travel guides offer details on how to get to the famous Blood Compact Site, President Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Park, as well as Children’s Playground and Mini Park. Hence, art and history fanatics can always visit the attractive Bohol Museum, which once serves as shelter for the family of the late President of the Philippines, Carlos P. Garcia.
Dining
Besides tourist destinations, Tagbilaran travel guides also feature dining places in the city. For tourists who crave for authentic Filipino dishes, they can always taste the delectable meals at Gerry’s Grill, Saya’s Restaurant, and Prawn Farm. Hence, for those who want to unwind and order tasty beverages, they can visit the famous Ruby Stone Music Bar and Entertainment. By referring to Tagbilaran travel guides, people can have ideas about the menu as well as price range of meals at the dining places in Tagbilaran City, Philippines.
Accommodations
In terms of accommodations, Tagbilaran travel guides feature first rate hotels in Tagbilaran City, Philippines, where people can have a wonderful and enjoyable stay. For those who like to stay in elegant and luxurious guestrooms, they can always make advance reservations at any of these famous hotels, The Metrocenter Hotel and Convention Center, Bohol Tropics Resort, and Wergent Plaza Hotel. Meanwhile, for those who are in search for hospitality service providers that offer affordable accommodations such as Chriscent Ville Pension House, East Coast Tourist Inn, and Slim Pension House. By using Tagbilaran travel guides, travelers and vacationers who plan to visit Tagbilaran City, Philippines, will surely have a worry-free, exciting, and enjoyable vacation at one of the famous cities in the country.
In the continent of Asia, the country of the Philippines could be considered to have one of the most unique cultures in the world. One factor that contributed in its distinctive culture is the fact that Philippines is predominantly a Christian country (mostly made up of Catholics). Its strategic location (middle of the Southeast Asian region) made it a melting pot of different heritage brought about by various early traders and merchants that put up their businesses. Some went home to their motherland; some stayed for good and with that, cultures and beliefs mixed and it was tagged as 'Filipino'. Philippines is definitely rich in natural resources. For this reason, as history attested throughout the years, foreigners had been trying to reach and claim the country as their own for practical reasons (raw materials). Nonetheless, the natural beauty of the country has the alluring power or influence that attracted people around the world.
The Philippines' rainforests and its wide coastlines make it home to a various array of sea creatures, plants, birds and animals. It is one of the ten most geologically mega-diverse countries and is at or close to the top in terms of biodiversity (per unit area). More than 1000 terrain vertebrate species can be found in the Philippines including over 100 mammal types and more than 150 bird species that exist exclusively in the country. Common species include the Tamaraw of Mindoro and the Bohol's Philippine Tarsier. The Philippines lacks predators, with the exceptions such as the Philippine Eagle national bird), birds of prey, cobras and pythons. Other native animals include the various species of bats, mouse deer, palm civet cat and the Visayan Warty Pig. With an estimated o more than 10000 plant species in the country, more than 3000 of which are exclusive to the islands, Philippine rainforests boast a selection of flora, including many exceptional types of rafflesia and orchids. The Narra is regarded as the most significant form of hardwood. Philippine territorial marine area encompass further than one million and a half square kilometers (more than 600000 square miles) producing unique and diverse sea environment and is an vital part of the Coral Triangle. There are more than 2000 fish species and over 500 coral species. Philippine waters also sustain the cultivation of pearls, crabs, and seaweeds. Seaweeds, crabs, and the cultivation of pearls can also be sustained in Philippine marine environment. These natural assets are the main reasons why Philippines has been categorized of having a gigantic diversity of flora and fauna in the world.
The local government of the Philippines tries to be economically competitive with the international market by enhancing the Eco-Tourism. This tourism industry would be emphasizing on the nature preservation and appreciation, at the same time, trade and commerce would grow as the influx of tourists and potential clients would be creating business opportunities and creating jobs. The internet is one of the best media of communication and advertisement and for that reason the http://www.gov.ph/ provides useful information and vital facts that are very helpful especially for first timer. The official website is user-friendly and very interactive. Definitely, there is nothing to be worried about. Enjoying and learning a glimpse of the Philippines is literally, just takes a few clicks away.
The City of Tacloban is considered to be the Heart of Eastern Visayas and the Gateway to Region Eight (in the Philippines). A visit or stay in Tacloban City would never be completed without visiting these famous landmarks and wonderful places. The Second World War had left a dent on the Filipinos psyche and to commemorate and remember the sacrifices of those who offered their lives to end the war, the local government created a memento of the event. The MacArthur Landing Memorial at Palo, Leyte displays bigger than life size and statues reenacting the historical landing of General Douglas MacArthur and his brave armed forces. Palo Metropolitan Cathedral, which is also in Palo, Leyte was once a converted evacuation hospital of the Allied Forces of Liberation during the Second World War. The place had also been the safe haven or refuge of civilians and local throughout the war. The cathedral's main altar had been gold-plated and the focal attraction of the place. This seventeenth century cathedral is a model of modern gothic church design and architecture. The Santo Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum serves as the home of priceless art objects and of course, the miraculous image of the Santo Niño or the Holy Child Jesus. This shrine and museum is located at Tacloban City. Another noted site is the Price Mansion (now the College Assurance Plan or CAP building) which was considered to be the certified or official headquarters and residence of the liberation forces headed by General Douglas MacArthur in 1944. Last but certainly not the least; tourist should visit the Leyte Provincial Capitol at Tacloban City.
The Official Seal of Tacloban City is straightforward, nonetheless conveys very strong symbolisms and meanings. The Galleon represents the ship or vessel of Ferdinand Magellan who discovered Limasawa Island where the first native Christian believers held the first ever Holy Eucharist in the Philippines. The right part of the seal represents the municipality of Leyte, where the city of Tacloban is situated. The symbolism of the municipality of Samar-the main supplier of marine and agricultural products to Tacloban City, is at the left side portion of the seal. As an added information, because of its Samar's productivity in terms of raw and natural resources, trade and commerce thrive in Tacloban City. The famous San Juanico Strait or passage is the body of water being depicted at the middle or the center of the seal.
Since Tacloban City is part of Leyte, the local government-to answer the booming tourism industry-encouraged private business to focus on travel and tours ventures. The Leyte Gulf Travel and Tours or LGTT was conceptualized out of the necessity to support and promote leisure and travel tours. Their program is duly-recognized and authorized by the Philippine Airlines or PAL. Getting updated information regarding Leyte Gulf Travel and Tours is just a few clicks away. Knowing these information would definitely help a lot regarding accommodations and travel itineraries around the wonderful places in Tacloban City.
Long before some tourist attractions or spots in the Philippines became famous, the city of Baguio had been a favorite vacation spot and getaway for locals residing in Metro Manila. The place was developed by Americans as a retreat place to escape or to have some break away from the warm ambiance of Metro Manila area. The place was hailed as the 'Summer Capital' of the Philippines because of its relatively cooler weather all year round. The place is said to be as well the 'City of Pines' because of the pine trees all over the area.
The best time to witness the culture and wonders of Baguio City is during the Panagbenga Festival. The festival is a yearly flower festival in Baguio City. The word 'panagbenga' is of Malayo-Polunesian derivation that means 'season of blooming'. The festival is characterized by colorful display of floral-themed parade, costumes and creative floats. The main streets of Baguion would really look like a garden of beautiful flowers especially during its culminating days. The feast is also defined by street dancing and merry making. It is a month-long celebration held annually in the month of February.
Upon arriving to Baguio City, one of the landmarks that would be flocked by tourists is the Philippine Military Academy. It is located within the Fort del Pilar, Loakan. It was created for potential officers of Philippines Armed Forces. This military academy has museum that displays war paraphernalia (uniforms, weapons, gears, vehicles, etc.) of the past to the contemporary period. Another notable spot in Baguio City is the oldest park in the place, the Burnham Park. Tourists could be relieved some of their tensions by simply just walking, biking or reflecting on the good things in life. The park is famous of the man-made lake where visitors could rent a boat just to row around the lake. The Baguio Cathedral is another place to check in Baguio City. It is also known as Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral. Its unique twin spikes, hundred steps and a wonderful view (located at a top of a hill) gives church goers, devotees or tourists a bird’s eye view of the full commercial center.
Baguio City needs to keep up with the pace regarding economic progress and growth. One of the widely use tools nowadays is to harness the power of the internet. The official website (http://www.baguio.gov.ph) for the local government of Baguio City gives concise details regarding Baguio City’s events, directory, services and all related information regarding the place. If a tourist plans to enjoy the Panagbenga Fetival in Baguio City, it is necessary to make preparation because Baguio City would be flocked by visitors during the said festivity and checking the official website is a helpful suggestion. Having an idea of where to go, where to stay and where to eat as a visitor or tourist in a vacation spot, would make the tour more memorable.
With plenty of things to do in Puerto Galera, a great crowd and excellent hotels, one couldn’t ask for more except for maybe a couple of Puerto Galera destinations worth seeing aside from the beach. Many of us know Puerto Galera for its beaches and primarily because of Sabang Beach which is where everybody goes, but there are actually many other Puerto Galera destinations worth our time.
Quite a change from Sabang Beach which can get crowded during peak season, the Big La Laguna Beach is more peaceful. The landscape at the Big La Laguna Beach is impressive and everyone who goes there sees it as nature’s wonder. Just as competitive as Boracay, this Puerto Galera destination is one of the excellent choices for a private getaway. The Big La Laguna Beach is so named because of how near it is to a town called Small La Laguna and this is a place where the white sand meets the crystalline turquoise sea. The water at this Puerto Galera destination is calm ninety nine percent of the time so for those who don’t know how to swim, there is nothing to fear. What’s very noticeable about the Big La Laguna Beach is that the water here changes shade and it is so clear that seeing the corals below is possible. The privacy of this Puerto Galera destination is comparable to none because no marine vessel is allowed here. The cool breeze even during summer is soothing and the trees that can be found all over the beach provide more than ample shade. For divers, Big La Laguna Beach is also an excellent dive spot and the diversity of marine life here is amazing.
Moving away from beaches, a Puerto Galera destination that will allow one to learn about the history and culture of the place is the Excavation Museum. Archeological relics are in abundance here, some dating centuries back. The oldest artifacts found at the Excavation Museum date back to the Ming Dynasty which is over a thousand years old. Not many know that the island has a colorful history and there were many interesting archeological finds here. Students and those who appreciate history can spend a whole day at the Excavation Museum looking the Chinese artifacts on display as well as weapons and some items obtained from sunken ships. There are also photographs on display here at the Excavation Museum both of things that are above ground and below. Those who think that history is boring will have a completely different perspective after visiting the Excavation Museum.
This coastal municipality is known amid visitors for its several receptacle coasts or beaches and various Scuba diving locations and snorkeling. In the early 1970's, the region was chosen as UNESCO's Man and Biosphere Reserve (because of the presence of most diverse coral reef diving in Asia). The marine setting has earned economic lift (dollor influx) because of the international visitors. Thus, this opportunity had led to the development of the place from an undiscovered wonder to a main tourist attraction.
The place's popularity had been uplifted when it was hailed as one of the most admired beaches in the entire globe by the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World (the only bay in the Philippines to be regarded as such). Its international recognition is definitely a non sense thing because the place is characterized by sparkling blue sea waters and white sand shorelines. In order to keep up with the arrival of visitors and tourists locally and internationally, they made some improvement throughout the year by establishing Puerto Galera as a getaway paradise with fine accommodations, entertainment facilities (in bars and restaurants) and cozy lively atmosphere. For several years, Puerto Galera had evolved to a 'paradise that never sleeps'. Puerto Galera is one of the favorite hangout places of relaxation (to escape work-related stress) of many of the call center agents in Metro Manila and its accessibility has been the main reason. There are actually local transportations (provincial buses that take some main roads around Metro Manila) that could bring tourists and visitors to Puerto Galera. Since it is located in the Island of Mindoro, available sea vessels or ferries would take vacationers and tourists to the main white sand coves of Puerto Galera.
The island of Mindoro is the location where the beautiful beaches of Puerto Galera could be found. One of the main advantages of staying and enjoying Puerto Galera (beside its accessibility from Metro Manila residents) is tourists and city dwellers does not need to spend a lot of money just to enjoy white sand shorelines and sparkling blue waters. Getting more information of the beauty and wonders of Puerto Galera, the official website of Mindoro (http://www.ormindoro.gov.ph/) gives an overview of what could be expected in the said location. The website, as well, is packed with facts and figures about the island of Mindoro.
It is definitely and quite fascinating how the famous mounds in the beautiful island of Bohol were formed. These mounds, recognized the around the world as 'Chocolate Hills' (thanks to the dry season that gives its brown appearance), are one of the major attraction for tourists and visitors. The blessed island of Bohol has a lot in store for those who love nature tripping. It is truly indeed, that in this lovely island of Bohol, nature has been the real attraction.
Tagbilaran City is one of the principal cities of Bohol Island. The city is known as the 'City of Friendship' in which exemplary hospitality could be experienced by all who stay and appreciate the place. Tagbilaran City has been the entryway or gateway of the island of Bohol in terms of tourism and industry. Tagbilaran City has been the island’s opening for tourists to experience the wonders of the Chocolate Hills and the Philippine Tarsiers. Accommodations are available and have never been a problem for tourists who would be staying at Tagbilaran City. Since tourism is one of the main industries of financial growth and stability, the local government continues to sure that accessibility, in terms of transportation and basic commodities, are given due attention. Without a doubt, the moniker 'Fiesta Island' is a rightful title for this breathtaking island.
Eco-Tourism, with great pride in asserting it, has been the island’s main tenet why tourists and visitors come and enjoy the beautiful island. Other than the Philippine Tarsiers and the Chocolate Hills, the island is so blessed with lovely white sand beaches which provide perfect relaxation. In order to organize the influx of tourists, travel agencies are definitely available for the tourists needs locally and internationally. Angel's Wings Travel and Tours could arrange accommodations and itineraries in Bohol Island. The said agency is located at Gallares Building, Tagbilaran City. Situated at Gallares St., Tagbilaran City, another can be spotted and that is the Dream Island Travel and Tours. Everglory Travel and Crewing Agencies, Inc. is another noted tour agency and is situated at #136 C. Gallares, corner C. Putong Street, Tagbilaran City. There are a lot in the list and as a tourist interested in going to Bohol Island, definitely the internet is the best source of updated information regarding travel agencies’ contact details. As a traveler's tip, being prepared is always the best thing to consider traveling and these agencies of travel can provide assistance big time.