Travel In Philippines

The City Of Golden Friendship

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:58:55 +0800

My native hometown, Cagayan de Oro City is known to be the City of Golden Friendship. Its history dates back even before the Spaniards came. It's one of the fastest growing cities in the Philippines. There's a lot to do in this city, among them is white-water rafting which is becoming famous not only to locals but also to foreigners visiting the city. Among other highlights of the said city is the Eco-Tourism Village where you can find a variety of animals in their natural habitats and also a park with a hotel that's over-looking the city and the Macajalar Bay. For golf enthusiasts, there's a world-class golf and country club which is located minutes from the airport.

I basically grew up in this city. It has low crime rate and "Kagay-anons" (as what the people of Cagayan de Oro is called) are approachable and friendly that's why I am proud of it. Some years ago, Night Cafe was started in town. This is an event every Friday to Saturday evening until dawn. One will find foods mostly barbecue and drinks in stalls spread out on three blocks. You'll also find live band for those who like listening to music. I remember my mother used to love sitting in the park and just listen to the band playing. After a few years, Night Market was added in which everything imaginable is spread out in another three blocks. This is the place where you'll see different kinds of people from all walks in life. What amazes me is seeing people with their whole family eating together and just being together having fun. Most often, you'll also find the city mayor roaming around the vicinity.

Another tourist spot has been inaugurated, the MacArthur Memorial Marker located in the Macabalan Wharf. The said event was also attended by the US Ambassador to the Philippines. This will be one place that I'm sure to visit next time I go home to my beloved hometown that I miss so dearly.

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Author: Sheila Blackburn

Travel to the Philippines

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:57:12 +0800

Traveling to the Philippines can be one of the most self-rewarding vacations you can take this year. Whether it is by yourself or a friend or significant other, the getaway of your dreams may be tucked away in the thousands of islands that make up this pacific gem. While my travels were limited to myself and a significant other, traveling there alone may be just the ticket you're after. I could bless the Philippines with songs of praise about its tasty foods, rich diversity, and complete affordability as far as a vacation hotspot should go; I must also address and immediately dispel any and all rumors about traveling there either alone or in a group.

The Philippines, like most south Asian countries, has a HUGE and insanely profitable sex tourism industry. An assumption made of most foreigners traveling to the Philippines is that they are there to soak up a piece of that industry. Whatever your intentions, don't let me belay you. If it is earthly pleasures you're after you can jump ship at Manila and never step a foot farther. If, however, you're seeking more than just the fruit of the flesh, take a tip from me and spend exactly one day in the tourist district of Manila. Two days at most but no longer than you need to be. While Manila is a HUGE and wonderful sprawling metropolis of diversion and food, you must (imperative stressed) get out of the city and move to the areas in the countryside which offer more fun with different activities at much cheaper rates.

First let's start with what to do once you're in Manila proper. The one day you're spending there will be setting up roots. If you haven't done so already, find a money changer. The changers in the downtown area are plenty and easily found. Finding one that can be trusted shouldn't be too daunting a task. Do not under any circumstances change money with a street changer. Always do business at a location that is set up in a store. While I can't vouch for reputation I can with experience say to trust the stores that appear to have been there the longest. You will NEVER get the ideal rate and if you are a traveling American, this will count doubly so. Almost always you'll find that money changers are slicing an even 10-15% off of the actual live mid-market rates. This is okay, since you'll be out exactly enough money to buy a coca-cola if you do it right. If you can do it economically I recommend trading in Euros. At the time of writing Euros are gaining value and will net the most for your change.

Once your money is changed, take care of any special needs. If you aren't carrying these things already stop and pick up some as you leave, one bottle of your preferred pain killer, one bottle of high spf (50 or more) sun screen, one set of replacement blades for your shaving razor (or buy a pack of the cheapest there), a full tube of tooth paste, a replacement toothbrush, and a full can of shaving cream. Bring your own shampoo. While you may be using the world's cheapest shampoo, your scalp may not be ready for you to change your formula.

Changing water conditions as well will wreak havoc on your scalp and may lead to drying and flaking. The least you can do for yourself is use the shampoo you've been using for the longest and try to keep the drying to a minimum. 2-in-1 and medicated shampoos are the best for this sort of travel.

Optional equipment may include a hotplate and a saucepan. Not all water is potable in the Philippines and you may find yourself boiling what you don't wash your hair with. If it doesn't say "potable" above the tap you should assume its city water and for the love of God don't drink it. I can personally tell you that there is nothing glorious or macho about doing it. Yes, I survived; No I did not enjoy doing so. Don't drink impure water. Alternatively you can just buy bottled water. I suggest the pan and plate first because you simply don't know when you'll need it and while there is little to no shortage of bottled water I can't imagine not being prepared for a lot of scenarios. Always have a first aid kit.

Register yourself with the embassy. There is no reason not to do this. You're there on vacation, you may be planning to leave the city and head off into the wild. Someone should always know to look for you and how. While kidnappings have been on a sharp decline and are approaching a wonderful and safe mark of 0, it is hideously reckless to imagine that it won't happen. And even if wild-eyed religious extremists aren't a problem, the wildlife can be. Just in case you end up on a cot in a jungle health clinic with a snake bite be sure someone knows where to find you.
Do it, it may save your life.

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Philippines and Filipina Online Culture Central - CLICK HERE

Philippines Packing Tips

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:55:45 +0800

If you've traveled at all, you know that packing for a trip can be time consumer and perhaps a worrisome ordeal. If you're traveling a far distance, to some exotic land, the pressure really cranks up.

But, fear not. Today, I'll give you a list of items you should think about packing for your next excursion to the Philippines. The last thing anyone wants is to being a vacation on a bad note. One pre-visit tip is to check the climate for the area(s) you'll be visiting. The Philippines is a tropical paradise, but the climate changes from region to region.

Here's a quick list of some good items to bring on your Philippines vacation:

1. Lightweight cotton shirts (to be comfortable).

2. Tank tops (again, comfort is key).

3. Shorts & jeans (mixture for climate and activity changes).

4. Camera with extra memory cards (capture everything).

5. Power adapter

6. Insect repellant (especially if you require a specific type/brand).

7. Sunglasses

8. Tagalog phrase book or cheat sheet.

I'd also recommend brining an extra suitcase, so you have plenty of room for souvenirs. You'll definitely want to bring stuff home with you. In the Philippines, they call gift items "pasalubongs."

While most Filipinos speak English (less in the more remote parts), knowing just a handful of key phrases in Tagalog (their language) will help you blend in more (they'll appreciate it) and you'll be able to navigate better. There's no need to learn the whole language, but bring at least a sheet with 15-20 phrases/words on it.

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Need some Tagalog phrases for your Philippines vacation? Check out "Tagalog Phrases for Philippines Vacationers" from PhilippinesVacation.org.

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Three Fun Places in the Philippines

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:54:20 +0800

The Philippines is a wondrous, magical place. With over 7,000 islands, you could spend a lifetime there and never begin to see it all. With that in mind, here are three places to visit when you embark on your Philippines adventure.

Metropolitan Manila

The Philippines capital, Manila, is a center of all things in the country. Many call it a city by the bay. Sure, it's humid and congested, but you can find whatever you seek here. It's a shopper's paradise.

And if you want to get close to a loved one, spend some time soaking up the sunset at Manila Bay.

Corregidor Island

It's a tadpole-shaped island where heavy fighting took place during WWII. If you love history, take some time to visit this jewel of a place. It's where Gen. MacArthur said, "I shall return."

You can still see the remains of the war-battle barracks and canyons used to fight.

Rizal Park

If you find yourself in Metro Manila, take a journey to it's heart. There you'll find beautiful Rizal Park, which is 148 acres. It's named after Dr. Jose Rizal, who was a national hero in the Philippines.

Everyone, from families to lovers, enjoy the park. I'd recommend taking a ride on the calesa, which a horse-drawn carrage made of wood. This park has playgrounds, fountains, concert area and gardens. It's worth checking out.

No matter where you go in the Philippines, beauty and fun are at your fingertips. These three places are just a small sampling of what makes the Philippines such a great place to visit.

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Want to explore more of the Philippines? Check out this article: "Three Great Philippines Vacation Spots" at http://www.PhilippinesVacation.org

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Top 5 Philippine Vacation Destinations

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:49:32 +0800

The Philippines is a majestic place to visit. The country has so much to offer to its millions of visitors each year. Because of the diversity of the things a tourist can do in the Philippines, it has been such a popular place to unwind, relax, and genuinely have a great time. There are many popular vacation spots in the Philippines and if you have all the time to spend exploring the country's 7,107 islands, then by all means do so and have a grand time. However, if you only have a limited time to spend in this beautiful country, here are the top 5 Philippine vacation destinations to visit.

The top 5 Philippine vacation destinations mentioned here are not arranged in a particular order but rather chosen because of its wonderful attractions. These top 5 Philippine vacation destinations are also the places that have an increasing number of tourists recorded to visit each year, which just shows that these are the areas which cater very well to them.

The first place on the list is Baguio City, a mountainous place in Northern Luzon, which is approximately six hours from the Manila, the country's capital. Baguio is known for its climate which can be very cold even during summer. Locals and tourists alike enjoy going to there during the Christmas season to unwind. Much greenery can be found in Baguio. It is also known for its strawberries which are at par with the strawberries grown abroad. There are lots of things to do in Baguio like strawberry picking, horse-back riding, and golf, among others.

When in the Philippines, one should not miss the chance to see the Chocolate Hills located in the province of Bohol. The Chocolate Hills is on its way to become one of the new Seven Wonders of the World as per online voting. Not only are the Hills amazing, but the entire province as well. Bohol is known all over the world for being the habitat of the world's smallest primate - the tarsier. Not only that, Bohol is also known for its white sand beaches and excellent dive spots in Panglao. It also has the Loboc River and a Man-Made Forest to add to its fare.

Next on the list is Boracay. Boracay is a haven for tourist for its pristine white sand beaches. There is so much to do in Boracay which can range from a relaxing dip in the pool, a quiet time on the porch, a swim in the beach, or a party during the night. Locals love going to Boracay to have a good time. It is Philippine's very own Miami.

Fourth on the list is the Queen City of the South, Cebu. Cebu is just an hour away by plane from Manila, and it is known for being a place that offers diverse options for the tourists. Like Bohol, Cebu also has fine white sand beaches in its northern part, particularly in Bantayan Island. Cebu is also known to have very good diving spots in Moalboal and Mactan.

Lastly, you should not forget to pay Palawan a visit. The place has a wonderful biodiversity and is rich in natural resources. Palawan also boasts of its beaches and its beautiful underground caves. Visiting Palawan will truly be a pleasant experience because it is nature at its best.

These are the top 5 Philippine vacation destinations that you can visit. For sure, these places will not be on the top of the list if they fail to give the much needed break that most people want.

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Don't start to travel to Philippines Boracay Island and other affordable Philippine vacation spots without reading more of Pierre Smith's amazing travel tips.

A Quick Glance at Palawan Resorts

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:48:01 +0800

Palawan is one of the most popular provinces visited by foreigners in the Philippines. It is known for its white sand beaches and spots that are attractive to tourists. The province offers great travel experiences to foreigners and locales visiting the area.

Palawan is known to be the largest province of the Philippines because it covers 1.5 million hectares of land and water. Many foreigners admire the province for its marine wildlife. The water around Palawan is made up of an estimated 11,000 square kilometers of coral reefs. Most tourists from other nations believe that Palawan is one of the most wonderful seascapes in the world.

Due to the popularity of the province to foreigners and Filipino travelers, it is observed that Palawan has an increasing number of resorts and hotels that cater the needs of visitors for the past years. The different resorts and hotels in the province contribute to the development of the economy of Palawan. It is also reported that Palawan resorts play a significant role in improving the public revenues of the province.

One of the most famous Palawan resorts is the Crystal Paradise Resort. This Palawan resort is located in the southern region of the province. Some of the recreational activities offered in the resort include snorkeling, swimming, fishing, trekking and island tripping. After enjoying the day, guests can relax in the spa of the Crystal Paradise Resort.

Another popular Palawan resort is the Dos Palmas Arreceffi. The resort is located at Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa. The Dos Palmas Arreceffi has basketball, volleyball and tennis courts so that guests can still play their favorite sports while they are in vacation. The resort also offers different recreational activities such as island hopping and diving.

The Princessa Holiday Resort is also a popular Palawan resort. It is considered as one of the best white sand beaches in the world. The resort is located at the Barangay Tigman in Aborlan. The resort has standard, superior and deluxe rooms that cater the different types of visitors. The Princessa Holiday Resort offers different activities such as kayaking and waterboarding.

Palawan resorts are very attractive to foreigners as well as to Filipinos in the other regions of the Philippines. They are well-maintained and their staffs are very hospitable to tourists. The resorts in the province are developing ways to enhance their facilities to assure travelers that they will have a very memorable travel experience in Palawan.

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John Grant is a long time writer of Philippines travel articles about Palawan Info.

Alluring and Protected Palawan Beaches

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:46:33 +0800

Palawan is a tourist's heaven. It offers several forms of sports and entertaining activities among tourists visiting the Province. It consists of the Calamianes Island whose coasts are rich with abundant and colorful reef and corals and marine life of different species It also has the famous Barracuda Lake that are a tourist attraction too.

Palawan is considered to be the last ecological frontier if the Philippine. Aside from being famous with its different diving destinations, the Island is also flocked with visiting tourists because of the crystal clear lagoons, virgin forests and limestone cliff islands. Moreover, the beaches with its white sands and beautiful shores are a natural attraction in this province.

Found in the northern part of the province are the provinces of El Nido, Taytay and Coron where beautiful and picturesque beaches are numerous. Many affordable and high class resorts line the Palawan beaches' shoreline for a luxurious accommodation. Many resorts offer tour packages that cover hotel and meal accommodation and transportation services. The highlight of this package include snorkeling, kayaking, cliff climbing, diving and many endless activities to burn you out.

Relaxation and leisure may be spent in splendor with the breezy air while walking along the white sands of Palawan beaches. beaches in El Nido are with breathtaking views of sand coves. There are also towering island cliffs that surround the shorelines.

The beaches in Taytay are with romantic views. There are also some virgin forests near the beaches. It is an ideal romantic paradise because of the air conditioned cabanas built near the beach shores. Also the tranquility and serenity of the beach ambience in this beach is a sure fire to keep the romance burning.

The beaches in Busuanga, Coron is a wreck diver's favorite place. Several shipwrecks are found in this beach coasts that sunk during World War II. The white sands found in this beach area are actually atop a vast of coral reefs. It is a wonderful place for snorkeling too.

Nature and beaches combined, Palawan is an island paradise. The beaches are one of the favorite destinations of tourists. Because of the growing tourist attraction, a Beach Ecology Watch Program was launched in Palawan. This is an environmental policy that will impose standards for maintaining cleanliness in the beaches. It encompasses all business establishments such as resorts, restaurants and diving facilities to observe these standards to impose good environmental impact on Palawan beaches.

The Beach Eco-Watch Program in Palawan is the primer in the Philippines. The beaches will be preserved and protected because of this policy that will continue to merit Palawan as the most visited tourist spots in the Philippines.

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John Grant is a long time writer of Philippines travel articles about Palawan.

Why to Spend Your Holidays in the Philippines

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:43:36 +0800

The Philippines is defined as Asia's pearl of the orient. The history of the Philippines is filled with culture, century old churches, ancient forts and modern museums. Philippines offer the best of nature with white sandy beaches, forests and modern resort facilities. The country has an extensive coastline and is surrounded by beautiful beaches. Philippines are blessed with a moderate climate making it an ideal sun holiday destination.

The Philippines is filled with tourist spots and locations and is considered one of the best places for a summer vacation. The following are some of the important places for visiting in the country Philippines. Pagsanjan is considered as the most important and popular tourist spot in this country. This place is filled with a series of fourteen rapid mini waterfalls on the way to the main falls.

Pagsanjan is a small Laguna town and the terrain towards the main falls provides enjoyment. The river valleys are covered with cliffs and lashed with vegetation offers a great site. Riding on a rented raft under the falls provides a great cheer of enjoyment to the tourists.

The second important place for touring Philippines is the Hidden valley springs. Hidden valley springs are considered as the familiar resort situated in Alaminos in Laguna. The valley is located at the foot of mountain Makilin and the mountain is termed as the mystical mountain of myths. The mountains are filled with number of hot springs, huge fruit trees, tropical shrubs and flowering plants. It has big cottages for holidaying and it acts as an ideal base for visiting the towns of Laguna and Quezon.

The third important spot in Philippines is Laguna. Laguna has beautiful sceneries. Laguna province is termed as the largest in the country. The towns of Calamba and Los Barios are surrounded with swimming pools and resorts. Many of the tourists visit this place for spending their summer vacations. The famous ancestral house of National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal is situated here and the house has now been converted into a museum. The volcanic mountain Makiling stands as barrier for the town.

The next important location is the Siargao Island. This island is newly discovered and has lots of white sandy beaches and surfing waves. This place is situated 800 kilometers from Manila. The Siargao Island is considered as a mass of tropical land with scores of reefs, points and white beaches. It has provided as a surfing Mecca in the discovery during 1993 by the American photographer John Callahan who investigated the rumors of spectacular waves. Sun bathing on the white sandy beaches and swimming in the crystal clear water is a great way to relax.

The next holiday spot is Tagaytay. Tagaytay has an altitude of 2,250 feet from the sea level and this city enjoys a cold climate all year round. Tagaytay is considered the best spot for the Picnic Grove and gives a clear view of the Taal Volcano. This volcano stands at a height of 406 meters from the lake and is considered the smallest volcano in the world. This tourist spot is considered as the sister city for Las Vegas and Nevada.

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Philippines' Pamalican Island

Mon, 26 May 2008 20:22:07 +0800

By: Cedric Canierro

Whenever we hear Philippines, we think of luscious forests, warm smiles of Filipinos and white sand beaches. Speaking of beaches, Boracay always comes to your mind as a beach-freak. Aside from the infamous Boracay, there are other white sand beaches in the tropics. Pamalican Island, apart from Boracay, is a small island that belongs in Cuyo Group of Islands located at the heart of Palawan and Panay. It is also the home of the high-end Amanpulo Island Resort.

Having the name Amanpulo (which means peaceful) spells it's true meaning and added to that feature is it's alluring beauty and tranquility. However, to transport tourists from Manila to the island, there is always an airplane standing by. It is also used to transport goods and supplies to the island. The island can accommodate less than 100 people to stay. That is an assurance that the place is not that crowded compared to Boracay and Puerto Galera. The fact that it's so small you can tour the whole island in 3-5 hours walk.

If you think walking around the island is boring, think again. The island has so many activities to offer just like diving, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, windsurfing, and beach combing. If you feel the romantic ambiance, try to arrange a barbecue night out with your date or simply grab your picnic basket and do your picnicking on the neighbor island. You can also indulge yourself in the island's casitas (bungalow) that goes with a personal buggy. So if vacation is what you have in mind, always include Pamalican Island in your list of travel destinations in Asia.

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Talking anything and everything under the sun.

http://asia-travel-freeport.blogspot.com/2008/04/philippines-pamalican-island.html

Philippine Travel Tips

Mon, 26 May 2008 20:18:39 +0800

By: Kamulo Nadnaden

The Philippines with its thousands of islands, friendly people, and unique Spanish and American influences is one of the more convenient travel destinations in Asia. The following is a collection of tips when traveling to the Philippines:

1. The weather is tropical and the air can be humid. Rainy months are from May to October while dry months are from November to April. Bring appropriate attire depending on the month you are visiting.

2. The people are warm and friendly and English is spoken by majority of the populace. Filipinos are generally conservative in their views and demeanor.

3. The best natural places to visit are outside of Metro Manila. Before travelling to the provinces, allocate enough time to get back to the international airports where you will be flying out.

4. Most tourist towns have guides, and it is recommended to tour with guides especially when visiting rural areas.

5. Keep valuables in secure places. As with other major cities in the world, big cities like Manila and Cebu have their fair share of pickpockets.

6. Credit cards are accepted mainly in major establishments. Most souvenir shops, even in malls, would only be able to accept cash.

7. When exchanging currency, look for authorized money changers in malls and airports or go to the banks. When visiting rural areas, plan how much currency is needed since these places may not have easily accessible money changers.

8. Tipping is expected for services rendered at hotels and restaurants. Taxis expect tips of P20 for fares less than P300.

9. Insect repellants are a must. Malaria infested mosquitos are common in a lot of places.

10. Stick to bottled / canned drinks. Avoid buying drinks and food from street vendors.

11. The metric system is used, and temperature is measured in Centigrade. Electric outlets supply 220V as input. This can damage electric appliances from countries where AC input is 110V.

12. Tourist information and assistance are readily available in Department of Tourism's offices or municipal halls across the country.

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The author grew up in the tourist town of SAGADA in northwestern Philippines. He maintains a website on tourist attractions in his hometown and in the Philippines. The website, Sagada Igorot Online, can be viewed at http://www.sagada-igorot.com/