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.
You will love being in the Philippines even more once you discover the many delectable dishes that are cooking in many of the country’s top eating hubs. Philippine restaurants have more to offer than just great food. There’s also pleasing atmosphere and good company, two things that make every food adventure extra exciting.
Jonah’s Milkshake – Being at the most coveted island in the country is made even more exciting by the appearance of the best beverage place you could find. It offers a wide variety of flavors that are out to please a wide variety of discriminating palates. What’s more, you can have your glass of shake against a wonderful background of either dusk or dawn, whichever you choose because it is open 24/7.[Station 1, Boracay Island]
Spiral at Hotel Sofitel – Looking for the most interesting buffet restaurant in the Philippines? Look no more. The Spiral, which is named so because it is accented by the spiral staircase that ascends to the hotel lobby, is one of the biggest and most renowned among the Philippine restaurants. It offers a wide variety of cuisine and an enormous number of dishes for every cuisine. The live cooking stations make you feel spoiled, with so many kitchen employees going ga-ga to offer you the best tasting meals you would enjoy. [Sofitel Philippine Plaza, CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City; (632) 551 5555, (632) 832 6988]
Antonio’s – If you are in for the most romantic dinner date of your life, Antonio’s is the ultimate choice. This wonderful eating hub that is located at scenic Tagaytay offers everything you need for a romantic night out. It may be quite on the expensive side but once you start dipping your teeth onto their mouth-watering dishes, you will think nothing about the money you’ve got to spend. [Brgy. Neogan, Tagaytay City, Cavite; (63918) 899 2866]
Viex Chalet – Swiss food is not so much part of the Philippine dining table as Chinese and Italian recipes. That’s why not too many people knew that an interesting Swiss restaurant has been pleasing many of the locals and tourists palate for over two decades. It offers many indulgences you could only dream about. [srhassig@yahoo.com; Taktak Road, Antipolo City, Rizal; (632) 697 0396]
La Cocina – If you want to know about the strongest influence in Philippine culture, this is the best place to dine. La Cocina presents Spanish dishes in its oldest form, way way back from how the old people of Manila knew them. Upon entering the place, you will feel the air of old, rich Manila, which is best defined by the short tour of the mansion as offered to the restaurant guests. [#315 San Rafael St., San Miguel, Manila ; (632) 734 2141, (632) 734 2146]
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.
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.
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.
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.
Even before Magellan arrived in the Philippines in the 16th century, Ormoc, then known as “Ogmok” already had settlers from neighboring countries and these inhabitants were attracted to the fertility of the land. Having said that, despite the first impression that there is no Ormoc destination worth seeing aside from vast tracts of farmland, one will be surprised at how many places there are in this place that are very interesting.
Being a coastal town, not many know about the unspoiled beaches of Ormoc. The Sabin Beach Resort is the most famous Ormoc destination because it is exactly a tropical paradise right out of one’s imagination. Once at Sabin Beach Resort resisting the urge to stay for at least one night is impossible because of its magnificent beauty. The Camotes Sea and the Ormoc Bay merge at sunset and the scene is just too picturesque that one can watch it for hours on end if that were possible. The resorts at this Ormoc destination have good facilities and are comparable to a 4 star or 5 star resort. Several water sports can be done at Sabin Beach Resort but many will not be able to resist just lying in the sun and relaxing with the cool ocean breeze gently blowing. Another good thing about the Sabin Beach Resort is that it’s not just the beach that is worth seeing here. This Ormoc destination is surrounded by lush virgin forests and trekking is an activity offered by the resorts in the area. Sabin Beach Resort is an ideal vacation getaway for the entire family.
Ormoc has very fertile soil and the inhabitants have put this to good use. Most of the pineapples found in the entire Philippines and exported are grown here at the Pineapple Plantation. One might wonder what’s so great about a Pineapple Plantation that would make it worth visitng? Aside from the fact that this Ormoc destination has been built on a 200 hectare property, the process of growing pineapples and harvesting them isn’t as easy as we would think and here is a place where we can learn the trade secrets of the Philippines’ most sumptuous fruit. The Pineapple Plantation is also a place where one can buy pineapples at very low prices and the people at this Ormoc destination will be more than happy to make sure that these are properly packed to avoid spoilage during one’s trip. Many people from everywhere in the country make sure they visit the Pineapple Plantation when in Ormoc. The Pineapple Plantation is found in Barangay Hibuwanon.
Palawan is one of the most visited, inviting and interesting island provinces in the Philippines. Travelers and residents in this place have nothing to worry about medical emergencies because there are numerous health care institutions in the area that provide affordable and high quality services. Palawan hospitals and health care facilities are subdivided into several categories including rural health institutes, Medicare facilities as well as municipal health units. Below are some of the most efficient, reliable and accessible Palawan hospitals and health care institutions.
Two popular private health care facilities in the province are the RTN and Palawan Adventist Hospital. Both of these medical establishments provide high quality services to patients. These institutions employ topnotch physicians and medical staff. In addition, the institutes use advance medical equipment for the diagnosis and treatments of patients. The private rooms and wards in these establishments are comfortable and well ventilated. Above all, the hospitals have emergency rooms where patients can always go and stay if they have health conditions that need immediate attention from medical experts.
To help the financially challenged residents in the province, the local government established several public Palawan hospitals and health care facilities including the Rizal Rural Health Unit as well as Narra Municipal Hospital. These institutes provide free medical assistance and regular check-ups to individuals who cannot afford to pay the services offered by private medical establishments in the island province. The facilities in these places include lying-in rooms, small wards and emergency rooms.
For patients who are looking for medical establishments that accept members as well as holders of Medicare cards, two of the institutions to be visited in the province of Palawan are Aborlan Medicare and Roxas Medicare. Some of the medical services available at Aborlan are dental, pediatrics and emergency. At Roxas Medicare, patients can seek assistance from professionals who have excellent knowledge on obstetrics and gynecology as well as surgery.
Finally, patients who want to seek medical help at secondary medical institutes in Palawan, they can always go to Brookes Point District Hospital. This establishment has 25-bed capacity so those who need immediate medical attention can be admitted in this place. To provide high quality services, the administration of this institution recruits excellent and licensed physicians, nurses as well as medical technologists. Lastly, the costs of services offered at this place are not as high as the medical costs at private hospitals in the area.
One of the advocates of eco-tourism in the Bicol Region is Sorsogon City. This third class city is located at the southernmost tip municipality in Luzon. Sorsogon City is considered to be the 'Gateway to Southern Philippines' and one of the leading cities in terms of urban lifestyle and economic progress.
If a tourist or a visitor is really inclined with nature or would just like to hang out with nature, then the province of is considered to be one big eco-tour destination. Eco-tourism is really a flourishing industry in Sorsogon. All the Eco-Tourism related activities and spots are within easy access with the seat of government and the capital situated in Sorsogon City. The Butanding or Whale Shark Interaction, one of the highly anticipated itineraries, is also included as a tourist package.
This interaction with these lovable sea critters could be experienced at the waters of Bacon District of Sorsogon City, Magallanes, Castilla, Pillar and Donsol. Checking out some exotic flora and fauna could happen at Mount Bulusan Natural Park and the captivating Buluan Mountain Lake Resort. Marine Sanctuaries and attractive dive sites also define what eco-tourism is all about in Sorsogon City. Numinous caves with mystical folk legends could also be explored. Sorsogon’s historical and cultural heritage could also be realized around the place because of the old historic ruins and churches that withstood the tests of time.
Summing it up, tourists or visitors could do a lot of things in Sorsogon City. From rigorous physical activities such as snorkeling, swimming, diving, etc., to just chilling it out and communing with the nature by the beach side, Sorsogon offers a total package of relaxing with wonders of nature.
Sorsogon City has a lot in store for its visitors and tourists who really are nature lovers. To keep up with the pace of the growing wave of eco-tourism in Sorsogon City, travel agencies are supported. One of the noted travel and tours agencies is the Whale Shark Adventure and Tours. They offer great adventure packages that will make a tourist's stay very memorable. Most of their itineraries are aquatic related events such as snorkeling, diving and of course butanding or whale shark interaction.
Nature has its own way of giving relaxation and relief to tired and overly stressed bodies. Therefore it is a simple reminder to at least appreciate and respect Mother Nature. Sorsogon City has been a manifestation of a caring child for Mother Nature as the place promotes, preserves and improves the beauty of Mother Nature. Everybody is called to be a nature lover.