Coming from the countryside into Manila a traveler may be astounded by the distant sight of thick smug that overshadows the metropolis. Can any spot in Metro Manila still offer fresh, woodland air? The good news is that there still are. One of them is right smack where greeneries still abound.
A refreshing experience of the woods and its wildlife in a safe environment. Quezon City harbors such a place. Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife was started in the mid Martial Law years (late 70s to early 80s). It’s an 80-hectare city forest reserve for woodland and animal life. It is along the Elliptical Road in Diliman, Quezon City, across the Quezon Memorial Circle.
From downtown Manila travel takes, via the Espana-Quezon Avenue route, some 45 minutes to an hour. Public transportation plying Quiapo to Philcoa or Fairview will never fail to drive past this Philippine tourist spot in Quezon City. It’s right at the very tip of Quezon Avenue right across Kidney Center and Lung Center of the Philippines.
Named “Philippine Parks and Wildlife” in the Marcos administration, it was changed to “Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife” in the reign of President Corazon Aquino. This Philippine tourist spot in Quezon City boasts of a number of caged wild animals and tree and plant species, plus a vast playground, deeply shaded promenades, a man-made lagoon, eatery, huts and cottages, among others.
Lots of school excursions, tourist trips, movie and commercial shooting, and casual visits are scheduled in this Philippine tourist spot in Quezon City. Even health buffs like joggers and volleyball and badminton aficionados frequent it, especially in early mornings. Picnic grooves and huts are best for outdoor meals and helpings are available at the eatery beside the lagoon.
The lagoon is littered with benches at its edges under big tree shades. A sunken amphitheater is at its bank. It is a favorite hang out of lovers, book readers, bonding families, idle visitors, and students rehearsing a drama or concert. Others celebrate religious fellowships there and display public communion with their Creator. The lagoon has an extended covered port where curious visitors can venture farther and nose around for what may be hiding in the lake.
Life activities of men, the wilds, and nature burst with vibrancy at Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wild Life. This wooded haven standing right in the midst of business affords travelers with an accessible Philippine tourist spot in Quezon City.
One of the economic centers of the historic and interesting province of Pampanga, Angeles City offers several shopping options to foreigners and local tourists who want to spend a remarkable and fun time in the place. To improve the performance of the tourism and economic sectors of the province, Angeles City shopping centers sell affordable but quality merchandises. These commercial establishments are easy to access. To attract locals and tourists, the establishments usually offer mall-wide sales. Featured below are the some of the inviting malls in the city.
A premier and modern shopping complex in Angeles City, Robinson’s Place is situated along MacArthur Highway in Balibago. Like the other malls in the city, it has a supermarket that offers different merchandises. There is a wet section at the supermarket where customers can buy fresh meat, vegetables, fruits and seafood. Tourists who like to shop for apparel and footwear can spend time at the department store because it sells high quality and affordable products. There are also home improvement and appliance stores at Robinson’s Place such as Handyman. Most dining establishments in the mall serve international and Filipino dishes. Food costs range from 50 pesos to 400 pesos.
Located at the corner of Plaridel Street in Santo Rosario, Angeles City, Jenra Mall is the first shopping center constructed in the place. Even if this mall is smaller than Robinson’s Place, many people like to shop at the establishment because it features bargain stores that sell attractive clothes for as low as 150 pesos. In addition, this Angeles City shopping place features retail stores that offer branded clothes like Bench as well as Penshoppe. Moreover, the mall features several automated teller machines within its premises. Above all, this establishment offers various dining options to shoppers. Jollibee is one of the famous fast food chains inside Jenra Mall where people can order tasty but affordable meals.
One of the most accessible shopping places in Angeles City, Nepo Mall features various apparel stores, specialty stalls and dining facilities. Some of the business centers that people can find inside this establishment are Smart Communications Center and Cebuana Lhuillier. There are also banks within the premises of Nepo Mall such as Citibank and Banco De Oro. To have a wonderful time at Nepo Mall, shoppers can order refreshments at fast food chains and restaurants like Pizza Hut, Red Ribbon as well as Jollibee. To ensure the safety of customers, the management of the place recruits reliable security officers.
The City of Davao, nowadays, was able to live up to the meaning of their name which is 'beyond the high ground'. Davao City has been considered as one of the Asia's beloved cities in terms of financial progress. For this reason, the Foreign District Investment Magazine hailed Davao City as the one of the 'Asian City of the Future' bagging the tenth place. Davao City has been indeed the tourism, investment and business hub for the entire southern Philippines. Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines seems to be deity overlooking the brilliant city.
Mount Apo has been one of the main reasons why nature lovers and especially mountaineers all over the world visit the City of Davao. Considered to be the 'master' or 'the grandfather' of all the mountains in the Philippines, Mount Apo stands 9,692 feet above the ground and pompously looking over, as if guarding, the beautiful City of Davao from possible outsiders or invaders that would threaten the place. Mount Apo is considered to be a potentially active stratovolcano. The towering height of almost ten thousand feet is the reason why it is the most admired and popular climbing destinations in the Philippines. The mountain was considered a national park way back 1930’s. Mount Apo has been a shelter for different flora and fauna and has been considered as one of the highest land-based biological diversity. Reaching its peak would take an average of two-four days of hike and during the trek diverse sights could be seen like the one of the highest lakes in the Philippines which is the Lake Venado. This 'Master Mountain' could be climbed the whole year-round.
The influx of visitors and tourists alike throughout the years has been one of the main reasons why economy has been very competitive in Davao City. To maintain and upgrade this blooming tourism industry, the local government encourage private investors to concentrate in travels and tours agencies. Some noted travel agencies are Ame Travel and Tours (F.Torres Street, Davao City), Davao Allied Travel and Tours (D. Suazo Street, Davao City) and Cynorel Travel and Tours (G/F Apo View Hotel, Camus Street, Davao City). There are a lot of travel agencies listed in some directory websites. It would still be better checking them real-time to get the latest updates regarding information and services they provide. Nowadays, aid and assistance are just a click away through the power of the internet.
Found in the southern part of the Philippines General Santos is one of the most frequented tourist destination in Mindanao. What draws people visitors to General Santos is the inherent need in every individual to be in touch with nature once in a while and appreciate its beauty. Indeed, many General Santos destinations are unspoiled and for many years have been maintained that way.
Lake Sebu is where the indigenous group T’boli tribe first settled and one can just imagine that this place was found suitable to meet the needs of the community. Lake Sebu is impressive because of how serene it looks and makes one feel. In fact, many visitors go to this General Santos destination once and keep coming back. The water of Lake Sebu makes one feel that no matter what one is going through, everything can be held together. The water is also very clear at this General Santos destination, a sign that the T’boli group has made every effort to make sure that it stays in exactly the same way as when they first settled here. The local tribe also believes that Lake Sebu is a place of miracles because even during the hottest and driest months, this never goes dry. Another good reason to visit Lake Sebu is the chance to interact with the T’boli tribe.
Ranked high on the most visited General Santos destinations is the Kalaja Karst Area found in Barangay Conel. The General Santos destination is a national reserve that is good for anyone who knows how to appreciate nature. One does not have to be a nature lover to be able to enjoy the Kalaja Karst Area because once here, one will realize that nature is something that’s truly wonderful and should be preserved. Aside from picnics and camping, a tour guide awaits at the Kalaja Karst Area to bring one to the Kalaja Cave and the different waterfalls in the area. This General Santos destination is a one stop for those who want to go on a picnic, swim, go trekking or camping. Because of the many options offered by the Kalaja Karst Area, one will definitely not get bored and the rugged environment is something that is very laid back. Even children can enjoy this tourist destination and it’s a good idea to bring them to Kalaja Karst Area so that they learn to appreciate nature at an early age and feel the need to preserve and protect it as they get older.
Named as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio City has numerous shopping options to offer to local travelers as well as to foreigners who like to have a remarkable time at one of the most inviting and popular tourist destinations in the country. People can relax and have fun at some of the Baguio shopping malls and souvenir shops that can be found in the heart of the city. Aside from these establishments, there are numerous retail stores and specialty shops situated at downtown that sell cheap native products and local treats. Additionally, the city has a night market that offers great bargains to residents and tourists.
Known as the premier shopping mall in the city, SM Baguio features interesting boutiques and specialty stalls. Customers who want to purchase quality but affordable items can check the mall’s department store. When it comes to food and basic house needs, this commercial establishment features a spacious supermarket. After purchasing all their needs, customers can rest and dine at fast food stores and restaurants inside the mall, which include Mini Shabu Shabu, Wood Nymph Korean as well as Carlo’s Pizza. The mall provides a nice overview of some of the fine and attractive spots in the city like the Baguio Cathedral.
Mines View Park is another convenient Baguio shopping place that tourists should see. This place is known for its relaxing sceneries and numerous souvenir shops. Most of these shops sell native products and handicrafts like bags, rugs and home decorations. In addition, people can also buy affordable accessories like necklaces, earrings as well as bracelets at this place. Above all, tourists can purchase local treats like ube jam, peanut brittle and strawberry jam for as low as 25 pesos at the park.
Tourists who want to take a walk and do some shopping at night can go to the market at Session Road. Most of the items sold at this area have affordable prices. Shoppers who have limited budget can look at the used items offered by some of the stalls featured at this place. Aside from the retail stores, customers can eat delicious and affordable snacks offered by food vendors. Some of the products available are clothes, bags, accessories and home decorations. The prices of these items usually range from 50 pesos to 200 pesos. To have a comfortable shopping time at Session Road, customers are encouraged to visit the place at around seven or eight in the evening.
One of the provinces in the Eastern Visayas region that the Philippines boasts of is Leyte. Various festivals and events are held in Leyte which makes this province one of the most-visited places in the country. Let’s take a look at some of the Leyte festivals and events conducted every year.
This festival is held in Calubian, a municipality in Leyte, every August 15. Both locals and tourists look forward to this event because its cultural presentations provide enjoyment and entertainment. The main highlight of this festival is the dance presentations prepared by the locals wherein they emphasize how and why coconut trees are very much valued by the people of Calubian.
The Sanggutan Festival is one of the famous Leyte festivals and events that both tourists and locals also love. It is held in Barugo, a municipality of Leyte, and is celebrated every May 18. While the Lubi Lubi Festival gives importance to coconut trees, the Sanggutan Festival gives importance on the old coconut wine processing that was used in Barugo. Commemoration is shown by the locals through interpretative dances.
Just like the Lubi Lubi Festival, the Pasaka Festival is also celebrated in August. This festival is a major event in the municipality of Tanauan, that’s why locals really look forward to this event. What the locals celebrate during the Pasaka Festival is the richness and prosperity of their lives. Various activities are done during this festival but the main highlight is a dance-drama number.
The Alikaraw Festival is also one of the Leyte festivals and events that local residents look forward to. The people of Hilongos are the ones who organize this event as they really exert effort to entertain people and inform people of their ancient rituals. Tourists are always left in awe every time they witness this festival because of the colorful presentations such as song and dance numbers.
The Sangyaw Festival is held in the capital of Leyte, Tacloban City, in June. What makes this festival different from the other Leyte festivals and events is the effort exerted by Tacloban locals to wear make-ups that are artistically done to look somewhat similar to the appearances of various flowers.
Other Leyte festivals and events include the Buyogan Festival and the Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival. These are all very entertaining events that regular tourists look forward to every year. Those who have not visited Leyte are encouraged to visit this province.
Dumaguete is a place that holds many wonderful surprises for visitors and among the main attractions here are the beaches amidst a tropical island background and the encounter with the indigenous groups. A variety of activities can be done here and of course several visits can be made to Dumaguete’s historical sites. These Dumaguete destinations all hold a piece of the puzzle to this city’s rich history, culture and heritage.
Apo Island is synonymous to a great beach experience in Dumaguete. This Dumaguete destination is a good way to cool down this summer and it is a 2 hour boat ride from Siliman Beach. Apo Island is also a favorite spot for divers in the Visayas and the best part about it is that one does not have to be a certified diver to be able to enjoy the underwater paradise. Diving lessons are offered on Apo Island and everything one needs to become a certified diver including equipment is provided by the dive shop in this area. This Dumaguete destination is a marine sanctuary protected and maintained by the Global Science Community. Apo Island is said to be home to close to 700 species of fish and about 400 different types of corals. If one does not want to venture into diving while on Apo Island, snorkeling is also an option and because the water is so clear, many fishes can be seen just swimming by.
Dolphin Watching is one of the things that one must do while in Dumaguete. Dolphin Watching can be done at Tanon Strait and this Dumaguete destination is where one can watch the playful creatures of the sea frolic in the water with sperm whales. Although Dolphin Watching can be done pretty much all year round, the best months to go would be anytime between May and September since these months are the times when numerous dolphins are here. Dolphin Watching is supervised by the city hall of Bais and the cruises made to this Dumaguete destination are under their close watch for the protection of the species.
After Dolphin Watching, a visit to the Canlaon Volcano is a must. This Dumaguete destination is said to be the tallest peak in the whole of Visayas and the Canlaon Volcano stands at about 8,100 feet tall above sea level. Many mountain climbers attempt this active volcano found in Canlaon City. Canlaon City is about 170 kilometers from the bustling Dumaguete City.
Located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna is a great weekend trip for the family. Enchanted Kingdom is a theme park that is perfect for the whole family. Rides and adventures are available all day long where parents and kids can spend some time together.
Enchanted Kingdom has a lot to offer for you and your family to enjoy. Enchanted Kingdom has several theme parks to explore and learn and rides to enjoy.
The Victoria Park in Enchanted Kingdom features the Victorian era and displays it in elegance. Entertainers leisurely stroll around the park dressed in costumes inspired by Queen Victoria's era. The Enchanted Kingdom's mascot named Wizard will be among the ones welcoming you. The Grand Carousel is Victoria Park's centerpiece attraction. Try the magical ride in Enchanted Kingdom through its Victoria Park.
Portabello is another zone in Enchanted Kingdom, which is a replica of a place in the Caribbean Sea. It features treasures hidden by the Spanish sailors. Portabello hosts the Rio Grande -- Enchanted Kingdom's largest attraction -- a wet and wild adventure for the family. Other attractions in Enchanted Kingdom's Portabello are the Flying Fiesta, giant swing ride, Xtreme Paintball, Portabello Show, and 4D Discovery Theater.
Boulderville is a zone in Enchanted Kingdom that'll be a sure treat for the kids. This zone has a prehistoric theme with dinosaurs as main characters. Rides like Air Pterodactyl, Bumbling Boulders, Boulderville Express, Dinosaurs, and Stone Eggs are sure to excite the kids. Children of any age will be delighted with Enchanted Kingdom's play facilities like Petreefied House and Rock Quarry. Puppet shows and dinosaur mascots will entertain you in this zone of Enchanted Kingdom.
Other attractions that you are sure to enjoy in Enchanted Kingdom are the following: Steeple Chase Arcade, Anchor's Away, Roller Skater, Clown Show, Dodgem, Up, Up and Away, Midway Show, Wheel of Fate, Bump N' Splash, skill and video games, and performances of mime artists, jugglers, and clowns. All these attractions can be enjoyed in Enchanted Kingdom's zone called Midway Boardwalk.
Brooklyn Place is another zone in Enchanted Kingdom where slapstick comedies and silent movies are reminisced. Rialto, a motion simulator theater is the main attraction where you're a part of the movie not just watching it. Ride the Funhouse Express, watch the Broadway and Brooklyn shows and enjoy the parade of entertainers down a cobblestone street.
Want to experience a spine-tingling speed flight? The Spaceport zone of Enchanted Kingdom has it. The 11-story-high Space Shuttle will let you experience an upside down turn six times. This is the first coaster ride of its kind in the Philippines. Other attractions are Sky Wizardry, Wizard's Tale, Go-Kart ATV, Exodus the Ride, and Kart Trak.
A jungle adventure is offered in Enchanted Kingdom's Jungle Post. A tranquil Swan Lake, Safari Shootout, the exciting Jungle Log Jam, and Amazon Hoop Shot are among the adventures that you'll enjoy there.
Enchanted Kingdom is the best place for adventure rides, fun, and excitement for the whole family. An hour's travel from Manila to Enchanted Kingdom is not bad in exchange of your family's quality time together.
The city of Cebu is fondly known as the Queen City of the Southern part of the Philippines. This highly urbanized city is economically competitive and over the past couple of years has seen tourism rising up the ranks of revenue generators for the local government. If one is planning a trip to Cebu, aside from reading up on all the tourist spots that can be visited, get the know-how on Cebu transportation. Knowing about Cebu transportation will not only help one get around the city but it will also give one an opportunity to appreciate how far this city has gone.
First, let’s figure out how to get to Cebu and the fastest way to do so is to hop on a plane. If one is coming from Metro Manila, the good news is there are several air carriers that fly to Cebu more than once a day. Cebu Pacific is a domestic airline that makes 2 trips everyday to Cebu and there are also other airlines to choose from. If one chances upon promotional offers then one has a good chance of getting the lowest possible rates to get to Cebu. The plane lands at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and this facility can accommodate both local and international flights.
Another mode of Cebu transportation is to travel by sea and it is a fact that the domestic port of Cebu is second to the busiest in the entire country. Large shipping lines dock at Cebu City’s ports and if one wants to travel using this type of Cebu transportation, then check out WG&A, Negros Navigation and Sulpicio Lines. These ferries can accommodate up to 4000 passengers per trip. Departure points include Manila, Davao, Zamboanga, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro and Butuan City.
Once in Cebu City, one will immediately notice the different types of Cebu transportation available from metered taxis, buses, jeepneys and tricycles. For those who don’t want to take public Cebu transportation, there are several rent-a-cars in the city. However, take note that public Cebu transportation are not only affordable, they are perfectly safe and because there isn’t that much traffic here, one will surely get to one’s destination quicker. A metered taxi can cost about Php60 per trip and this is for the air conditioned one. There are also the jeepneys which charge less than Php10 per head and these vehicles have designated routes.
Puerto Galera in Mindoro is blessed with pristine seawater, white sand beaches and lush vegetation. It has many destinations for different kinds of activities or just for sightseeing.
For the beach bodies, Puerto Galera has several white sand beaches. White Beach and Sabang Beach are the most popular destinations. One can just lounge in the shade and drink a cool glass of refreshments. Bars and restaurant line the coastline of these beaches. Water activities such as jet skiing and banana boat riding are also popular in these destinations. These beaches turn into a lively night spots as bars lining the shore start blaring party music.
The waters off Big and Small Lalaguna, Talipanan, Aninuan, Haligue, Long Beach, Dulangan (Bulabod), Boquete and Villaflor offer a visitor to go under water and scuba dive. Magnificent natural coral formations and exotic colorful fishes await the diver.
Coral formations and exotic fishes are available not only to divers. While on board a motor boat, one can visit several destinations near and around Puerto Galera. Medio Island, Minolo Paradise, Sabang Plateau, San Antonio Point and Tangalan Point are excellent sites for this activity.
The flora and fauna of Puerto Galera are points of interest for naturalists. Once can visit the Mangrove Forest Park to see and appreciate the trees in this mangrove park. For the animal lovers, Paradise Zoo is the place to visit. Over 1,000 different species of animals are showcased in this zoo.
The more active traveler will be happy to know that there are several adventures available to them in Puerto Galera. Aninuan Falls, Tamaraw Falls and Talipanan Falls can be reached by easy to moderate hiking. Those who want to thread the unbeaten path will be happy to see to cascading waters of these falls and swim in its cool waters.
For the history buffs, the Excavation Museum is a place of interest. This museum contains several artifacts and antiques unique only in the area. A visit to this museum will help one realize the importance of Puerto Galera during pre-Spanish time as one sees many Chinese and Siamese potteries. The Cross at Muelle in the town proper is another good destination. A visit to the Baclaran Mangyan Settlement makes tourist appreciate the culture of the Mangyans, an ethnic tribe found only in Mindoro.
Island hopping is another good activity for tourist in Puerto Galera. Nature lovers will enjoy Alibatan Island because it is a breading site for seagulls and turtles. For those who want to go deep see fishing, the waters off Buyayao Island are an excellent destination.