Overview of Dipolog Transportation

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 Beach outside Dipologindustrialized, 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.

Getting to Dipolog

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 Dipolog Transportation modeseveryday of the week. Ocean Jet, GP Lines, Super Ferry WG&A are among the maritime vessels that can safely take one to Dipolog.

Transportation around 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]

The Philippines: The Pearl of the Orient Seas

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.

Philippines' Flora and Fauna

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.

Tourism in the Philippines

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 Emblem and Banner of 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.

Helping tourists and visitors trip to Tacloban City

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.

Overview

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.

Big La Laguna Beach

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.

The Excavation Museum

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.

The Paradise of Puerto Galera

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.

Puerto Galera and its International Reputation

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.

Accessing Puerto Galera Online

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.

The City of Tagbilaran

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.

Bureaus for Travel and Accommodation

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.

Overview

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.

Sabin Beach Resort

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.

Pineapple Plantation

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.

As a first-class city in Mindanao, Dipolog City has a lot of good colleges and universities to offer students who are coming from different parts of the world. These educational institutions provide numerous benefits ranging from highly skilled faculties down to ultra modern facilities. More importantly, they give students a very good atmosphere to study as part of a dependable and consistent Dipolog education system.

Andres Bonifacio College

Situated along Quezon Avenue right within the area of Barangay Miputak, students can easily enroll at Andres Bonifacio College. Overall, it features a total 55 diploma and degree programs. Amongst its most popular graduate courses are Master of Public Administration, Master of Business Administration and Master of Arts in Educational Management. The school is also a big part of the Dipolog education system as it continuously provides students with different kinds of interesting undergraduate courses including Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Bachelor of Science in Nursing. For individuals who go for shorter courses, they can enroll in various kinds of Vocational-Technical Courses such as General Clerical Course, Diploma in Home Arts Technology and Junior Secretarial Course.

Dipolog Medical Center College Foundation

One of the nicest places to study in the area, Dipolog Medical Center College Foundation is situated within the area of Mibang in Santa Filomena. Primarily known as a medical school, today it also features non-medical academic programs and courses like Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education. More importantly, there are still outstanding medical courses available including Radiologic Technology, Physical Therapy and Nursing. The school also boasts of decent facilities such as a physical therapy room, a spacious college campus and a nice basketball court.

Saint Vincent’s College

Established on June 17, 1917, Saint Vincent’s College is a very good location for learning and study. Long after its establishment as a high school facility, the place has expanded into a tertiary school with lots of interesting and great courses to offer. Some of the most popular undergraduate courses available in this school are Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Bachelor of Science in Secretarial Administration and Bachelor of Elementary Education. There are also decent school facilities including a computer room, a music building and a library.

Jose Rizal Memorial State College-Dipolog

For students who are really serious about their studies, they can always enroll at Jose Rizal Memorial State College-Dipolog. One of the major goals of the college is to develop professionals who are productive, nationalistic and socially responsible in whatever they do. For degree programs, students can enroll in courses such as Bachelor of Elementary Education, Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurial Management and Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. It also offers short-term courses including food preservation, care giving and driving.

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.

Best Place for Eco-Tourism

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.

The Sorsogon Adventure

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.