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.
The history of the first settlers and its civilization had something to do with the natural attractiveness of the place. The location was said to be looted by Muslim buccaneers that used to 'daggit' or 'to snatch' something out of this place. Another account said; its charm never failed to magnetize visitors to come and stay for good, hence, the word 'dumaguet' (to swoop). Until in 1734, the place was known to be Dumaguete: the City of Gentle People.
The city of Dumgauete has a distinct reputation of being 'the center of learning in the south' for some obvious reasons. The presence of notable universities and colleges made Dumaguete City famous locally and internationally as well. Thus, it was considered a ‘melting pot’ of scholars, artists, professionals and students from different parts of the Philippines and of the world. The presence of Siliman University had given the university town aura since its foundation. The said university is the oldest American-established university in Asia. The Siliman Main Library is considered to be as one of the largest libraries in the Philippines. Other universities and colleges situated in Dumaguete are Saint Paul University of Dumaguete, Negros Oriental State University (or NORSU) and Foundation University. Computer schools or Information Technology (IT) related schools are also prevalent in Dumaguete City as well (AMA Computer College, STI College and Asian College of Science and Technology or ACSAT).
The following are some notable feasts or reasons for merry making in Dumaguete City. Every month of May, Santacruzan and May Flower Festival are being commemorated by the last week of the month. The foundation of Siliman University is being celebrated during August annually. The Buglasan Festival and the founder's day of Saint Paul’s University of Dumaguete are being held every October yearly.
The status of the place as the center of education in the southern part of the Philippines had paved way to the influx of individuals to study, stay and do business. With this thing in mind, the local government of the city of Dumaguete use one of the most effective ways to access the place in the most convenient way. The official website (www.dumaguetecity.gov.ph) is the cyberspace gateway of the city of Dumaguete. It is full of information for individual who would like to have a glimpse of the beauty of Dumaguete City. As a traveler, it is a must to check this website for real-time updates regarding the place.
Boracay is more than just about gorgeous beaches, basking in the sun, water sports and partying all night although these are very alluring. There are Boracay destinations that one can visit when on vacation there and one can add this to the growing list of reasons to visit Boracay.
The island of Boracay has a narrow point which from the main road is a mere 10 minutes away by foot. The narrowest point is where the Kingfisher’s Farm is located and it’s easily identifiable with the numerous mangrove coves that line the outskirts of this Boracay destination. The Kingfisher’s Farm has many interesting attractions including jumping milkfishes that are indeed amusing. One can even rent a cabana at the Kingfisher’s Farm, order a sumptuous meal from the in-house restaurant or bring uncooked food and grill it there. There are also billiards and card games that guests can do to entertain themselves at this Boracay destination in addition to a game of tennis at the Kingfisher’s Farm. For the nature lovers, this Boracay destination is a great stop over because of the trees and the birds that make Kingfisher’s Farm their home. It’s a chance to unwind after several days of action and adventure at the beach.
If Palawan has a Butterfly Garden then so does the island of Boracay and it is becoming a big attraction. The tropical garden that the butterflies have made their home is a re-creation of the species’ natural habitat and there are about 300 different kinds of butterflies that live here at the Butterfly Garden. There is even a museum here where the scientific names of the butterflies are given with a sample of the specie itself. A tourist guide at the Butterfly Garden will take the visitors on an enchanting tour of this Boracay destination and give a lecture on the breeding and life cycle of these species.
The Butterfly Garden’s nursery serves as the breeding ground for butterflies. Aside from the guided tour, visitors are allowed to move freely at this Boracay destination and learn interesting things on their own or just simply sit, relax and watch them flutter around. For those who have signed up for island hopping, one of the stops would be the Butterfly Garden. Although this Boracay destination has no restaurant or store within its premises, there are several dining establishments located nearby that are just a walking distance away.
If you are planning on visiting the tourist destinations in the Philippines, the best way to have hassle-free travel and accommodation is to get in touch with travel agents that offer trip packages to your chosen destination. By taking advantage of these travel packages instead of making your own travel arrangements, you can save time and money during your trip.
When choosing a travel agent, it is best that you look for one that is closest to where you are staying. Since a large number of foreign tourist are staying near the business areas, it is quite easy to spot Makati travel agents in many areas of Makati. Your hotel may also have tie-ups with some Makati travel agencies. Asking your hotel for advice on this can help you choose the most reliable travel agency in the area.
One of the Makati travel agencies that have forged ties with major hotels is the Marsman-Drysdale Travel, Inc. The MDTI has been awarded several times for creating and handling tours to various destinations in the Philippines. This travel agency was founded in 1975 to answer the call of the Philippine government in promoting tourism in the country. Since then, the travel agency has grown. At present, it has an office in major tourist destinations including Cebu, Davao, Palawan, Bohol, Dumaguete, Zamboanga, Cotabato, General Santos and Cagayan de Oro. This travel agency handles clients who would like to travel within the country and also those who would like to travel abroad as well. Their Makati office is found on the 19th floor of Robinsons Summit on Ayala Avenue.
Blue Horizons cater to tourists for inbound and outbound travel. They can also make the reservations for corporate clients who book for its guests and employees. This travel agency is the Philippine arm of the many of travel agencies in Europe and Asia. They can make the arrangements for travel, sightseeing and accommodation of foreigners coming into the country. Blue Horizons Travel and Tours also employ the services of multilingual tour guides to better assist their clients. Their main office is found at Trafalgar Plaza on H. V. dela Costa St. Salcedo Village.
This is a travel agency that has been accredited by local and international travel organizations. Baron Travel offers a variety of local and international travel services to their clients. They offer airline, sea and train booking services as well as land transfer packages for their customers who need travel arrangements. Golf packages are also available for people who would like to have a golf holiday. Their office is found at the ground floor of Cityland Tower 2, Ayala Avenue.
The mentioned travel agencies are locally and world-recognized establishments in the Philippine travel and tourism industry. When choosing a travel agency, it is best that you go for agencies that are members of respected travel organizations such as the Department of Tourism’s Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (DOTCPCVC).
Found in Negros Occidental, Bacolod City has some of the highest rated hotels in the Philippines and it caters to a thriving industry. Tourism has grown immensely in Bacolod and with this growth came the influx of travelers from other parts of the Philippines and abroad. When it comes to Bacolod hotels, these establishments serve their guest with passion and provide world class service and facilities.
Inampulugan Island is the home of Costa Aguada Island Resort and it’s no hassle going to this Bacolod hotel from the city. Aside from the warm hospitality that one is greeted with, Costa Aguada Island Resort has topnotch facilities. In fact, this Bacolod hotel frequently receives awards and praises for maintaining its establishment in such pristine condition and they constantly upgrade their facilities and amenities to better meet the needs of their guests. The Costa Aguada Island Resort is a big Bacolod hotel with a hundred rooms in total all elegantly furnished, cozy and comfortable. This Bacolod hotel is the perfect place to spend a vacation with families and loved ones and it’s also a good option when it comes to business meetings and conference because they have the facilities for that. The Costa Aguada Island Resort has a big swimming pool, a coffee shop where tasty meals are served, a bar where one can grab a drink or two for that nightcap and this Bacolod hotel offers services such as massage and spa to pamper their guests. Room rates at the Costa Aguada Island Resort start at US$ 5.
If one prefers to stay within the city limits and be right in the center of commerce and night life, L’Fisher Hotel is located on Lacson Street in the city of Bacolod itself. This highly recommended Bacolod hotel is very proud of its excellent service and facilities and L’Fisher Hotel is very consistent when it comes providing their guests with what they need. The surroundings of this Bacolod hotel are something that one will describe as tranquil and serene and they have well kept gardens where one can take a stroll. L’Fisher Hotel is no small hotel, with close to a hundred rooms and their facilities include a pool, a restaurant and a coffee shop. Those traveling on business find that the L’Fisher Hotel is a good spot to close that business deal over a cup of coffee or a meal. In addition to all that, when the sun sets, one will find that the L’Fisher Hotel is very near great restaurants and bars.
The beauty and charm of the province of Iloilo cannot be denied. The province itself is among the ranks of the country’s primary and leading centers of commerce, production and culture. Its characteristics as the depository of artistic and architectural heritage, the potentiality of growth in aquaculture and as a discovery of untouched tourist spots provide an appeal very enticing and definitely should not be missed by any tourist planning to visit the Philippines. Iloilo is situated on the southwestern part of the tip of the island of Panay flanked by the Iloilo River and the Guimara Straight.
Iloilo is blessed with wonderful historical heritage and natural wonders. As tourists, these following places are the excellent spots to visit in Iloilo. The island of Sicogon offers palm laden isle with white sand beaches and is located five kilometers away frim Estancia municipal proper. Janiuay Cemetey, which is thirty-two kilometers away from the Iloilo Citym is a Spanish-Filipino built memorial park made of fossil rocks and cut stones and showcases two Gothic entries and three impressive stairways. The Miag-ao Church or the Jaro Cathedral has been a national landmark since 1973 and its architectural design is a suggestive of the Aztecs. This church is also the Archbishop’s seat. Museo Iloilo is a place where collections and compilations of historical and cultural heritage of Iloilo are well kept or preserved for public viewing. These artifacts include war relics and mementos (such as a sunken British ship), Filipino carvings during the Spanish regime, pottery from ancient trade transactions (with Siam, Annam and China), Stone Age burial sites, jewelry, fossils and native pottery. Absolutely, there is no such thing as lag time in Iloilo City.
In response to the overwhelming influx of tourists and visitors coming, going, staying for good and doing business, the local government boosts its tourism potentiality by supporting travel and tours agencies. One of the noted travel agency in the city is the Amigo Travel and Tours Corporation. This travel bureau is located at the Ground Floor Carlos Young Building Solis St., Iloilo City and has helped a lot of tourists regarding accommodation and travel routine. The grandeur of Iloilo is simply irresistible. With the power and the usefulness of the internet, booking a tour in the exciting city of Iloilo is just a few clicks away. Everyday is a great day to enjoy the brilliance of the city of Iloilo.
Enjoying the magnificent traveler's spots in Palawan Island entails means of transportation and travel. From the airport or pier (if one traveled by the sea), forms local transportations in Palawan make traveling a delightful experience.
Puerto Princesa Airport usually takes care of flights into Palawan from major cities or municipalities around the Philippines. There are no direct international flights outside the Philippines for now, but tourists may have to take flight from Manila and Cebu City because they have daily air travels from these places.
As a tip, it is best to always reassure or reconfirm air tours schedule before the schedule of departure. Due to some not so-good weather (like rainy season), it would be understandable for airports to halt its operation for practical and safety reasons. This is a protocol especially during times of stormy weather or typhoon.
Facilities in Palawan airports are well-maintained for the needs tourists and visitors alike. Ready transportations like taxis and tricycles are available from the airfield to respective city locations.
Palawan's natural beauty could also be reached by sea voyage. It's comprehensible that it would be a very long travel, but exciting, from Manila through ferry boats. For the next twenty-four (24) to twenty-six (26) hours, these vessels would give a sort of night time entertainment like live bands and disco dancing. During day time and id sky is clear (meaning visibility is ok); staffs on the upper deck would usually give tourist a heads up regarding the surrounding islands. There are times that even big fishes or dolphins could be seen racing beside the ferry. Traveling is definitely a thrill in itself!
Philippines' 'King of the Road' which is the jeepney or jeep has been the bastion of public transportation in Palawan as well. These versatile public utility vehicles can pick up passengers along the way and could carry large baggage or belongings virtually anywhere from Puerto Princesa City to a certain town or location and vice versa.
Tricycles are bigger than the usual in Palawan, especially in Puerto Princesa, in comparison to the Metro Manila tricycles. These modes of transportation, because of the size, have been dubbed as ‘motorcycle taxis’ and these 'taxis' are practical in short distance driving within Puerto Princesa limits.
Nonetheless, enjoying wonders of Palawan would be very pleasurable and worthwhile if tourists or visitors would hire vehicles that could resolve their traveling needs. Moreover, tourists can make special arrangements with travel agencies regarding transportation within Palawan. Regardless of what form of transportation a tourist picks, as always, the sense of adventure is always a choice.
Despite the economic success of Ormoc over the years, one will be glad to know that this city has managed to keep a large part of its culture and history intact through the various Ormoc sightseeing spots. When visiting this province, it's inevitable to want to learn more about this place and there is no better way to do that than to spend a day or two doing some Ormoc sightseeing.
The nature lovers and the sports enthusiasts will find refuge at the Leyte Mountain Trek and this Ormoc sightseeing spot is the perfect place to sweat it out amidst virgin forests. The Leyte Mountain Trek is a favorite among backpackers and the trail that runs for a good 26 miles has been tried by many, both foreigners and locals. What's particularly good about a visit to the Leyte Mountain Trek is that by going to it and seeing this place, one will also get to see two other known Ormoc sightseeing spots. The trails starts at Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park and at the end of the trek, one will end up at the Danao Lake Natural Park right in the center of Ormoc City. The journey through the Leyte Mountain Trek is something that even children as young as 12 years old can make because the walk is something that is serene and the trail is easy to trod on. While at the Leyte Mountain Trek, enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of Ormoc and have an exhilarating day.
The Danao Lake Natural Park is a favorite Ormoc sightseeing spot by visitors because of its natural beauty and the many activities that can be done here. The Danao Lake Natural Park is great place to have a family picnic or if one wants to keep it hassle free, there's always the floating restaurant that serves sumptuous delights. There is also a scenic boat ride that will allow one to navigate the waters when at the Danao Lake Natural Park and the crystal waters is where one will see spectacular sea creatures. Legend has it that a giant eel a little over 3 kilometers long swims deep in the waters of Danao Lake Natural Park and there are souvenir shops in the area where one can buy a keychain or a shirt with a print of this mystical creature. Indeed when it comes to Ormoc sightseeing, the Danao Lake Natural Park is a place that is simply crying out to be visited and one will not regret dropping by at this famous tourist attraction.
Philippines is a country rich in history and natural wonders. One can go sightseeing and visit some of its historical landmarks. Beaches and resorts offer tourists to engage scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing or just bask in the sun. Below are some of the places where on can enjoy what Philippines has to offer.
The Philippines, being a group of islands, offers tourist several destinations for swimming and relaxation. Foremost of these destinations is Boracay. Located south of Manila, Boracay Island boasts of powder white sand and clear waters. Resorts and establishments in this island offer services for aquatic activities such as sailing, jet-skiing, snorkeling, diving, etc. This island transforms into a party scene at night. Local bars and restaurant compete with each other in offering visitors their services. Another famous site for its beaches is Puerto Galera in Mindoro. Just a four to six hour land and sea travel from Manila, Puerto Galera also boasts of white sand beaches. The proximity of the place to Metro Manila makes it one of the popular destinations among local and foreign tourist alike.
Cebu, being a historic island, offers a chance for tourist to go on a sightseeing tour of landmarks. Located in this island are the Magellan’s Cross (the site where Spanish conqueror Ferdinand Magellan first Christianized a local chieftain) and the Lapu-Lapu Monument and Magellan Marker (this is where the historic battle took place where local chieftain Lapu-Lapu killed Magellan). Other notable historic landmarks in Cebu are the Fort San Pedro and Santo Nino Church.
Manila, being the capital city, offers a lot of activities for tourist. Go around a historical tour inside Intramuros. Intramuros is old Manila. This district of Manila is rich with establishments that have a lot of Spanish colonial influence. Notable places to visit in Intramuros are the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church and Fort Santiago.
For the adventure and nature buffs, Philippines have Puerto Princesa City in Palawan and Davao City in Mindanao. In Puerto Princesa City one can go on a river exploration in the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Park, go diving from different sites around Honda Bay. The attraction of Davao City is Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines. In and around Davao are different conservation centers for animals like the Philippine Eagle and the hawksbill turtle.
Other destinations noteworthy for sightseeing are the Chocolate Hills in Bohol (this is a group of hills that look like chocolate drops), Rice Terraces in Ifugao and Mount Mayon in Bicol (a majestic volcano known for its perfect cone summit).
Known as the 'Heritage Haven of Panay,' Iloilo's popularity stems from its gentry living as depicted by its majestic structures throughout the province. It got its name from the word “Ilong-ilong” because it resembled the shape of a nose.
Iloilo City is a living proof of the wealthy culture of the province. Popular landmarks, such as Muelle Loney, Museo Iloilo, Arevalo, Plaza Libertad, Fort San Pedro and Jaro, is home to 19th century mansions, flower nurseries, and pina and jusi weaving looms. Jaro is the provincial capital and is where most of the province's rich and elite have preserved their ancestral homes.
Iloilo destination guides will tell us that the province is more than just grand churches and mansions. Here are just some of the sites and landmarks worth seeing in Iloilo.
Bucari, in the town of Leon, is the province's adaptation of Baguio. It is also a popular destination during the hot summer months.
El Dorado Waterpark provides tourists with an opportunity to freshen up and have fun at the same time. It is the latest addition to Smallville, Iloilo's hub for entertainment and dining. El Dorado boasts of its South American influenced pools and poolside rooms.
Speaking of freshening up, Iloilo has its share of beaches. Located in the island of Panay, known for its attractive islets and coasts teeming with marine life, Iloilo beaches has the making of a top tourist spot in the country. From the northern to the southern end of the province, there are plenty of beaches to choose from that can certainly make your summer refreshing.
Iloilo destination guides will tell us that the most convenient way to reach the province is to take an airplane. Most of the cities in the country have scheduled daily flights enroute to Iloilo. If you prefer the longer route, fly to Cebu City and make your way to Iloilo City via Negros Occidental.
From Manila, proceed first to Cebu then make your way to Negros. Another option is to go on an overnight trip from Manila or Cebu.
Regardless of the mode of transportation, Iloilo is an excellent place to visit whenever you want to free yourself from the hectic life in the city. It provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere if you are looking for a laid-back vacation. Iloilo is a place that combines country living with the sounds of chirping birds and city life. When looking for a place to visit, Iloilo should be among your considerations.