Wow Philippines

Come Let's Travel Philippines

2012-04-10T05:19:00.000-07:00

Philippines is known as Pearl of the Orient within the Southeast Asian region. A democratic country composed of more than 7,100 islands having three major areas Luzon to the north Visayas in the center, Mindanao down south. Manila is its capital. Its culture, have affinities with the West especially Spain and America due to three centuries of colonial rule. The rich culture and tradition of the country reflects the diverse indigenous culture from its many islands. It has a rich history coming from Spanish, European, American and Japanese influence. Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion, being the only Catholic country in Southeast Asia. Filipino is the official language while English is widely spoken all over the country.

Philippines Beautiful Places and Spot

Puerto Princesa Palawan

Palawan is an island province of the Philippines. The provincial capital is Puerto Princesa and it is the largest province in terms of land area. It is considered as the last frontier of the Philippines. Palawan is 1,768 islands of pristine white beaches, dramatic rock formations, secret coves and underground mysteries. An untamed land, a nature lover’s paradise and an adventurer’s dream: Palawan certainly lives up to its image as the last frontier. The island province has been declared a nature sanctuary of the world and for good reason. It is wrapped in a mantel of rain forests, outstanding dive sites, majestic mountains, primeval caves and shimmering beaches. It bursts with exotic flora and fauna and is surrounded by a coral shelf that abounds with varied and colorful marine life.

Cebu City

Cathedral

Cebu lies in the heart of the Philippine archipelago and serves as the ideal gateway for tourists to more than 7,100 fascinating islands of the country. A visit to Cebu presents a pleasant discovery of its rich history, multifaceted culture and captivating people. It provides a glimpse of the country’s glorious past, with a number of preserved historic relics standing until today. Apart from its popular heritage sites, Cebu is endowed with a wealth of inviting, natural attractions that engage visitors in various activities. It boasts of white sand beaches, pristine waters and rich marine life fit for diving and snorkeling, as well as verdant mountains, mysterious caves and challenging trails for mountain trekking, spelunking and other outdoor sports activities. Cebu is also home to a vast array of products that are at par with the world’s best. But more than these, Cebu offers distinct warmth of the people that sets Cebu apart from other tropical destinations. Cebuanos, known for their hospitality, friendliness, industriousness, resilience and deep sense of patriotism, are gracious and friendly hosts. Come and experience life in Cebu, the Queen of Southern Philippines!

Bohol Philippines

Chocolate Hills

Bohol is an island province of the Philippines located in the Central Visayas region, consisting of Bohol Island and 75 minor surrounding islands. Its capital is Tagbilaran City. With a land area of 4,117.26 square kilometres (1,589.68 sq mi) and a coastline 261 kilometres (162 mi) long, Bohol is the tenth largest island of the Philippines. To the west of Bohol is Cebu, to the northeast is the island of Leyte and to the south, across the Bohol Sea is Mindanao.
The province is a popular tourist destination with its beaches and resorts. The Chocolate Hills, numerous mounds of limestone formation, is the most popular attraction. Panglao Island, located just southwest of Tagbilaran City, is famous for its diving locations and routinely listed as one of the top ten diving locations in the world. Numerous tourist resorts dot the southern beaches and cater to divers from around the world. The Philippine Tarsier, considered the second-smallest primate in the world, is indigenous to the island.
Boholanos refer to their island homeland as the "Republic of Bohol" with both conviction and pride. A narrow strait separates the island of Cebu and Bohol and both share a common language, but the Boholanos retain a conscious distinction from the Cebuanos. Bohol's climate is generally dry, with maximum rainfall between the months of June and October. The interior is cooler than the coast.
Although people have been living on Bohol long before Magellan reached the islands that are now the Philippines, our written records start here, and about the events before that time, little is known, and has to be carefully reconstructed from oral traditions and archaeological evidence.

It is said that around 1200, the Lutaos arrived from northern Mindanao. They build a settlement on stilts in the strait between mainland Bohol and the island of Panglao. This town later became a prospering local center of power, also known as the the "Kingdom of Dapitan." It lasted until it was abandoned in 1563, out of fear for raids by the Portuguese and their allies from Ternate. It will be seen below how this event helped the Spanish to get a foothold in the Philippines.

Boracay Philippines

A typical tropical paradise in the Central Philippines, Boracay is just off the northwestern corner of the large island of Panay in the Visayas group. It rates as one of the country's top tourist destinations, but was a late starter - until the 1970s only the most clued-up of backpackers even knew the place existed.

The island is some 7 km (4 mi) long and extends to an area of some 10 sq km (4 sq mi). The reasons for coming are simple – sand and sea. The long main beach is on the west coast - and White Beach doesn't misrepresent itself.

Baguio City

Burnham Park is an urban park located at the heart of the City of Baguio, in the Philippines. It was named after the American architect and urban planner, Daniel Hudson Burnham who laid the plans for the city. Several stretch of roads around the park lead to Camp John Hay, a former recreational base of the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines. It is a scenic park overlooking Mount Kabuyao, the tallest mountain in the Baguio region.

The park features a man-made lake situated at the center where tourists can enjoy boating with rented boats. At the southern part of the park, a skating rink was constructed. The Melvin Jones Grand Stand and Football Field at the eastern part of the park are normally used for several activities like parades, concerts, and political rallies. The Children's Park and the Orchidarium is located at the western part of the park. There are also bike rentals if one so wishes. You can rent either single bikes, tandem bikes or even bikes with side cars. They even have small bikes for the little kids of both two and three wheel versions. A bust of Daniel Burnham was erected in the northern section where a rose garden is also located.

Camiguin Island

The island-province of Camiguin is a pear-shaped volcanic island in the northern tip of Mindanao. It is approximately 90 kilometers north of the City of Cagayan de Oro. It is bounded to the north by Bohol Sea, to the west by Macajalar Bay, to the southeast by Gingoog Bay and to the east by Butuan Bay.
Camiguin is the smallest province in Northern Mindanao, with its land area pegged at 29,187 hectares. It is composed of five towns, namely, Mambajao – the capital town, Mahinog, Guinsiliban, Sagay and Catarman. The island plays host to seven volcanoes, including the still-active Mount Hibok-Hibok. According to the National Statistics Office, Camiguin has a total population of 74,232 persons, making the province the second smallest in the Philippines in terms of population.
Among the Province's major products are coconut, cassava, banana, camote, palay, corn, fruits, coffee and vegetables. Camiguin's volcanic soil has proved to be a fertile ground for planting various crops. At present, the Provincial government is looking into an agricultural program that would increase the cultivation of fruit trees and vegetables in Camiguin. The Province is also among the best abaca fiber producers in the country. Camiguin is proud of its natural resources, which include sulfur deposits, geothermal energy, agricultural lands and fishing grounds.
The Camiguin culture is a mixture of both Boholano and Cebuano culture. It is very colorful and creative. The people are deeply religious, hospitable and friendly. Cebuano is the major dialect in the Province. However, in the towns of Sagay and Guinsiliban, where most of the indigenous tribes reside, the Kinamiguin dialect is still spoken. Kinamiguin is derived from the Manobo dialect with some mixture of Boholano.

Camiguin Island

2012-04-10T05:12:00.001-07:00

CROSS MARKER AND SUNKEN CEMETERY

Located in Bonbon, Catarman a huge cross marker has been installed by the Provincial government to mark the community cemetery that sunk during the 1871 volcanic holocaust. Years ago, gravestones were visible during low tide. Today, it is an interesting diving site.

KATIBAWASAN FALLS

The 250-feet majestic beauty cascades to a rock pool surrounded by ground orchids, wild ferns, trees and boulders. Its ice-cold waters provide an ideal summer splash to locals and tourists alike. Rock picnic tables, seats and cookout facilities are available for use.

TUASAN FALLS

The trek to the 25-meter high strong waterfalls is fun and exciting. One will have go through a very scenic hike passing through the quaint barrio Mainit before being refreshed under the thunderous falls.

ARDENT HOT SPRING

The local hot spa is a natural pool of about 40 degrees centigrade springing from depths of Mount Hibok-Hibok. The Municipality of Mambajao has provided cottages, restaurant and dormitory facilities that cater to local and foreign tourists. It has picnic huts, cookout facilities and restrooms for visitors.It is ideal for night swimming, a place to rejuvenate both mind and body.

STO. NIÑO COLD SPRING

Located in Catarman, the Sto. Niño Cold Spring has a pool measuring 25 meters by 40 meters. It is 2 meters deep of cold spring water sprouting from the sandy bottom. The area has a restaurant, native cottages, picnic huts, cookout facilities and restrooms for visitors.

WHITE ISLAND

Two kilometers off the coast of Agoho, Mambajao is the Camiguin's popular sand bar. At times it is in the shape of the letter C, sometimes the letter I, depending on the ocean tide. It has the picturesque Mount Hibok-Hibok and Old Vulcan as its backdrop. It is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling.

LANZONES FESTIVAL

Lanzones Festival is held every third week of October and it is a four day grand celebration of the lanzones fruit. The most important livelihood in Camiguin is lanzones. It is when a lot of tourists come to witness the joyous Lanzones festival. Lanzones is one of the major fruit producers in the Philippines. Lanzones is a tropical fruit that grows extravagantly on the north-central coast of Mindanao. Lanzones has a pale brown skin and sweet translucent flesh. It is said that the sweetest lanzones in the Philippines comes from Camiguin. The town of Mambajao in Camiguin celebrated its annual festival called Lanzones Festival together with its harvest in the month of October.
Lanzones Festival in Mambadjao Camiguin is celebrated with a weekend street dancing competition and parties, cultural shows, parade and beauty pageant (coronation of Mutya sa Buahanan) and trade fair that features local handicraft and products. Houses, street poles and even people are ornamented with lanzones during the lanzones festival. According to the legend of an unknown beautiful maiden took the fruit’s past bitter flavor to replace it to delicious and sweet taste of the lanzones, thus townsfolk dance in the streets in order to honor and celebrate. It also celebrated by the people in Camiguin as a contribution in making Mindanao as a cultural tourism destination and give thanks for a bountiful harvest for all the agricultural products.

THE LEGEND OF LANZONES FRUIT

Once upon a time, there are many tourists who came in Camiguin because they want to know what Camiguin is, because of the attractive spots of this place they didn’t know where they going to. In short they lost.
In few weeks, they encounter unexpected circumstances in this place. They had no already foods to be eat. So they find way so that they can eat. They work and walk for finding their foods until they saw a one child and a one bird that eat the fruit. They observed it of what happened in eating that kind of fruits. In a few minutes after observing, they prove that there is no happened in the health of the child and the bird. They are very interested to taste that fruit because in their mind that maybe it can poison.
In a mean while, fairy came. “You can eat this fruit; it is very sweet and delicious to be eaten. The name of this fruit is Lanzones” the fairy said. The tourist challenge to taste the fruit, and when they taste it they are together saying “wow! How nice this fruit its very sweet” because of the very delicious fruit, they eat and eat until they surrender.
Because of the circumstances happened that the tourist witness how Lanzones fruit is delicious, they believed the Lanzones festival celebrate because it praise the abundant harvest of this fruit, and this is one tradition of the Camiguingnons people.

Kawasan Falls

2012-04-09T20:21:00.002-07:00

Kawasan has three waterfalls. The first one is mainly the largest of the three, and is usually the most crowded. An uphill climb for fifteen minutes will take you to the second falls, and another, to the third. You may bring in food, or buy from the resort's restaurants. Cottages and tables are also available for rent, as well as rooms for overnight stay. You may rent a raft to take you around the "pool" or for a refreshing "shower massage" under the falling water. Life vests are also available for a very affordable price.

The pathway may be very dark once the sun sets so its best to have a flashlight at hand. One should be extra careful in going down the slope especially those descending from the second or third falls to avoid mishaps or accidents.

Kawasan Falls is a popular get-away destination in the southern part of Cebu to locals and foreigners alike. With its lush tropical trees and plants everywhere, peaceful flow of the river as it gracefully rushes to the distant sea, the sound of the waterfalls on the background, friends and loved ones enjoying the cool and deep fresh water, everything around just seems so relaxed, simple and very serene.

A Marian grotto (Our Lady of Lourdes) at the vicinity of Kawasan Falls in Badian, Cebu
While at Kawasan Falls in Badian, Cebu, this Marian grotto caught my attention while looking around the area. This is my second experimental shot for a series that I’m thinking of pursuing. The first study is this one.

Cottages (1,500 to 2,500 php) and tables (500php) are also available for rent, the rooms are for overnight stay. You can rent a raft (300 php) to take you around the “pool” or for a refreshing “shower massage” under the falling water. Life vests are also available for rent.
Kawasan Falls is a great get-away destination in the southern part of Cebu for family’s and gatherings.
Here are some photos of kawasan Waterfalls Cebu Philippines.

Left side view

down stairs

Cebu City

2012-04-08T00:56:00.001-07:00

Cathedral

The Cathedral dates back to 1591 and started of as a barn like structure made of wood, bamboo and nipa. It was the seat of the diocese which included the whole Visayas, Northern Mindanao and the Marianaa Islands.
In 1665 stone walls were added, over an extended period of time many changes were made making the Cathedral the landmark it is today. It was thought the Cathedral would never be finished due to typhoons, lack of funds andvarious administrative changes.
During the 1890s with Bishop Juan Gorordo serving as Chaplin, the Cathedral was finally completed, being consecrated on June 24th, 1909.

Santo Niño Altar

The church was built by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and Fr. Andres Urdaneta on the site where the image of Santo Niño was found in 1565. The church was however destroyed by fire on November 1, 1568 and was subsequently rebuilt in 1602 under the administration of Juan Albaran and was rehabilitated in 1740.

On May 1965, the church was conferred the title of Basilica Minor del Santo Niño by Cardinal Antonuitte, Papal Legate during the Fourth Centennial celebration of the Christianization of Cebu.

Magellan Cross

When Magellan traveled from Spain to the Philippines in 1521, he brought with him in a wooden cross. This cross was planted at a place called Sugbu, now Cebu, to symbolize the colonization of the country on behalf of King Philip II of Spain.

To preserve the cross the original has been encasedin an outer layer of tindalo wood, mounted on a concrete pedestal, and housed in a tile-roofed kiosk. The roof of the kiosk is adorned with a painting depicting the landing of Magellan in Cebu and the planting of the original cross on the shore.

Lapu-Lapu

Inspired by his success in bringing Christianity to the people of Cebu, Ferdinand Magellan crossed the narrow channel to Mactan Island in an effort to spread the Catholic faith. Whilst still wading to the shore, he was killed by island chieftain Lapu Lapu leading his army of men during the battle for supremacy and freedom on April 27, 1521. Magellan's body was never recovered and in 1866 a marker was erected as a monument to this great explorer, marking the spot that Magellan was slain.

There is a great deal spoken with regards to the Hero of the Philippines, Chief Lapu Lapu, much of it surrounded in myth andlegend. However this is a nice place to visit the grounds are very well kept and you can have a great seafood meal in one of the several fish restaurants next to the shrine. Why not check out the shell vendors just outside the shrine and marvel at the exquisite designs made purely from shells.

Taoist Temple

Cebu Taoist Temple is one of the main attractions of Cebu. You could say you just landed in China! Taoist Temple is located in Beverly Hills Subdivision, Cebu, Philippines. Local and foreigners usually visit the temple in the afternoon time. I suggest if you’re planning to visit the temple be sure you’re there before 4pm.

One can enjoy strolling around the temple in less than an hour. you can take pictures of the awesome place and relaxing are the most common things done inside the temple. and also taking pictures of the Gods and inside the prayer rooms are strictly prohibited.

Cebu Heritage Monument

Here is a historical site, one jeep away from downtown city, that should not be left unattended. Once just a fence in Brgy Parian, the sculptor, Eduardo Castrillo, put all his effort and showed us his commitment to work and patience as he contributes this masterpiece monument to the country.

Visiting the monument and discussing the message of the tableau is an enriching experience, for tourists and students alike. It promoted the City’s Tour of “Heritage Walk,” that included the Magellan’s Cross, Basilica del Sto. Niño, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral and Plaza Hamabar to name a few. Whats great about is It gives us all Filipinos a memory of our history specially the birth of Christianity, just in one site.

The Heritage of Cebu monument, which was completed through donations of private individuals and groups should really be appreciated by all.

Guitar's

Guitars especially made from Cebu are famous throughout the Philippines because of their affordable price, world-class quality and durability.

Cebu has a long history of guitar making due to its traditional industry. Most of the guitar manufacturers are family-owned enterprises passed on from one generation to another.

Cebu-made guitars are popular with local tourists and Filipino expatriates, who buy them as gifts, when they go back to the United States or other countries where they have settled. The guitars are also popular with foreign tourists, who buy them as souvenir items.

The center of the guitar-making industry in Cebu is in Lapu-Lapu City in Mactan Island. In addition, other string musical instruments made in Lapu-Lapu City include ukuleles, banjos, and mandolins.

The guitars made in Lapu-Lapu are all hand-made and people who want personalized guitars can order them custom-made according to their own design requirements.

Several music stores in SM City Cebu sell Cebu-made guitars and string instruments. Nevertheless, the center of specialty stores in Cebu City selling guitars and other string instruments is in Lincoln Street near the Carbon Market district. The whole stretch of Lincoln Street on both sides has stores selling guitars and other string instruments made from Lapu-Lapu City and other places in Cebu.

In the past, the Cebuanos (people of Cebu as being referred to) were strong followers of Islam and paganism. Their beliefs were changed when Catholicism was brought by the Spaniards to thearchipelago during the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the Philippines is the third largest Catholicnation in the world with more than 70 million followers after Brazil and Mexico.

One of the Philippines colorful and sought after festivals is Sinulog. It is celebrated on the third Sunday of January lasting for nine days honoring the miraculous image of Santo Nino (Cebu City'sPatron Saint). The highlight of the festival is the street dancing where participants wrap themselves in beautifully tailored costume whilst dancing in a ritual, commemorating the original beliefs of Islam, paganism, and their acceptance of the Catholic faith.

Last year, Sinulog Festival marked its 30th anniversary and made history when it was jam-packed by eight million spectators; a huge success that made Sinulog 2010 the biggest Sinulog ever! This year, Sinulog Grand Parade kicks off on Sunday January 16, 2011 and I'm sure it's gonna be a lot of fun. What are you waiting for? Join the fun! Join Sinulog 2011.

Boracay

2012-04-07T06:54:00.000-07:00

Whether you can looking to be closer to nature or just wanting to be pampered, Boracay offers you more than you can ask for. With activities such as volleyball, skim boarding and snorkeling tours, you and your friends can never get bored there. Consider visiting Boracay at the Amihan season, typically around the September and October period, as it has great temperature and wind for surfing. Also treat yourself with spas and wellness centers in the area.

Discover the underwater world in the crystal clear waters surrounding Boracay. You’ll see a vast array of tropical sea creatures by either taking a short boat ride from the main White Beach, Boracay or taking an island hopping tour. Some boat crew can provide masks, snorkels and fins whilst most Boracay hotels and dive centres also have equipment available for hire.
Apo Reef is the world’s second-largest contiguous coral reef system and the largest in Philippines. You really should check out more information on Philippines through

Paraws, a sailboat typical to Boracay, allows you to sail the calm waters and explore around Boracay Island. Paraws can fit 2 to 6 people and leave from White Beach. These Boracay sailboats either come skippered, or more experienced sailors can hire the entire boat. You can escape to a more secluded Boracay beach only accessible by boat or be awed by the beautiful sunsets and tranquil waters.

Boracay has become a renowned destination for kiteboarding, hosting the annual Boracay International Funboard Cup competition at Bulabog Beach on the east side of the island. Kiteboarding is best from November to April and all equipment can be hired from the operators along Bulabog Beach. Operators also offer kiteboarding lessons.

ATVs are four-wheel buggies that can be rented by the hour to explore the dirt roads criss-crossing the hills in Boracay’s north end. Places like Tanawin Viewpoint and an aviary can be reached via ATV - these vehicles are not permitted to operate on the Central Highway.

Baguio

2012-04-07T00:57:00.003-07:00

BURNHAM PARK

Burnham Park, a haven of beauty and quiet in Baguio, Burnham Park is a large park in Baguio City and it features an artificial boating lake in the center.
The park is located right in the middle of Baguio City, and is named after Daniel H Burnham, the American architect and town planner who laid out Baguio.
It has an orchidarium, a rose garden, a terrace restaurant, a children's playground, bicycle lanes, and areas for basketball and other sports.
There are boats to hire on the lake, and tricycles may be rented for the children.
Burnham Park is a great place to wander and watch the people of Baguio at play

Mines View Park

The view from the lookout at Mines View Park, Mines View Park is located on a promontary of land about 4 km from downtown Baguio.
Standing on a small observation deck in Mines View Park, the tourist has a spectacular view of the nearby valley and mountains and over the gold and copper mines formerly operated there by the Benguet Corporation.
From the car park and its souvenir shops, the observation deck can be reached by following a winding stone-constructed stairway. Sometimes the stairway can get a bit slippery in Baguio's damp weather -- so take care!
Since the main attraction of Mines View Park is the view of the nearby mountains, there are people hiring out binoculars so you can get a better view. The cost is only a few pesos for 5 or 10 minutes.
If you get a sunshiny day, take the opportunity to quickly get some photos of the views from Mines View Park -- for the odds are that one of Baguio's mists or fogs may soon sweep in and obscure the view.

CAMP JOHN HAY

A beautiful resort in the mountains it features a world class competition Jack Niclaus-designed golf course (said to be the only course in the Philippines to have bentgrass greens) as well as hotels, a shopping center & a convention center, among other attractions.
Located on the south eastern side of the Summer Capital of the Philippines, its Main Gate is now located on Loakan Road, a 5-minute drive from its old location at the Upper Session Road-Loakan Road-South Drive rotunda.
Camp John Hay has a second entrance accessible via the Baguio Country Club road, which is closer to the other major tourist attractions of the City of Pines.
This former rest & recreation facility for American soldiers in Asia is a tourist destination in itself.

BOTANICAL GARDEN

The Baguio Botanical Garden is located east of Baguio's downtown area. You will find it between Teacher's Camp and the Pacdal Circle. Its main entrance is along Leonard Wood Road and just across the street from Gilberto's Hotel and Baguio Vacation Hotel. It is quite a large park and about the same size as Burnham Park.
Also known as the Igorot Village, the Botanical Garden features native huts typical of the type of Igorot dwellings found in the Cordilleras. The village is said to capture the ethnic spirit and cultural legacy of the Igorots and being tranquil and quiet, it is a nice place to just sit down and relax, take a leisurely stroll along its narrow and winding pathways and also enjoy the landscape where you will find numerous plants and trees.

THE MANSION

The Mansion is located on the eastern part of the city along the Leonard Wood Road and right across from Wright Park. It was built in 1908 for U.S. governor-generals and was destroyed in 1945 during the battle for the liberation of the Philippines.

The Philippine government later rebuilt and improved the structure in 1947 and since then it has been used by various Philippine presidents whenever they come up to Baguio for their official visits and engagements. The Mansion served as the seat of the Second Session of Economic Commission of Asia and the Far East in 1947. It has also been the site of first meeting of the South East Asia Union which was popularly known as the Baguio Conference of 1950 which was conceived and convened by President Elpidio Quirino.

The elaborate main gate of the Mansion is said to be a replica of that at Buckingham Palace in London. Vehicles entering the compound pass through a great circular driveway and it is usually open only when the Mansion is used for an official function or activity. With its beautiful gardens and a well-manicured lawn, it is a favorite site for sightseeing and picture taking.

Ditumabo Falls

Ditumabo Falls is located at Barangay Ditumabo, San Luis, Aurora, one of the key attractions of the province of Aurora. Though currently the site of an ongoing hydroelectric project, the falls is still one enchanting site to behold and certainly worth the visit. It towers more than a hundred feet above a wide basin and imposing cliffs on both sides hem the falls itself. The locals have nicknamed it ?the mother falls.? The trek alone to the falls is a treat in itself. One gets to pass through lush vegetation, large boulders, a number of sprays and small waterfalls, and cross several streams and rivulets. There are wooden footways already in place; perhaps to aid the construction crews ferrying supplies to the small dam being constructed near the falls.

There are no campsites in the area, although there are several wide cottages about 100 meters from the waterfalls. At the time of our visit, these simple sheds were free for our use.

Bohol

2012-04-07T00:18:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Hills

The province is a popular tourist destination with its beaches and resorts. The Chocolate Hills, numerous mounds of limestone formation, is the most popular attraction. Panglao Island, located just southwest of Tagbilaran City, is famous for its diving locations and routinely listed as one of the top ten diving locations in the world. Numerous tourist resorts dot the southern beaches and cater to divers from around the world. The Philippine Tarsier, considered the second-smallest primate in the world, is indigenous to the island.
Boholanos refer to their island homeland as the "Republic of Bohol" with both conviction and pride. A narrow strait separates the island of Cebu and Bohol and both share a common language, but the Boholanos retain a conscious distinction from the Cebuanos. Bohol's climate is generally dry, with maximum rainfall between the months of June and October. The interior is cooler than the coast.

Although people have been living on Bohol long before Magellan reached the islands that are now the Philippines, our written records start here, and about the events before that time, little is known, and has to be carefully reconstructed from oral traditions and archaeological evidence.

Hinagdanan Cave, Dauis, Panglao Island, Bohol

Some 1,400 caves have been identified in the province of Bohol Philippines, and one of the more popular and easy to reach is the Hinagdanan Cave in the town of Dauis in Panglao Island. Located in Barangay Bingang, which is around two and a half kilometers from the town proper, the Hinagdanan Cave is named as such because a hagdan, or ladder in the local dialect, takes visitors in and out of the cave.
The Hinagdanan Cave, classified as a karst cave, is a large cavern with several holes in the ceiling. It boasts of a large number of stalatites and stalagmites inside. The cave leads to a large underground pond. Both ends of the cave are open, providing natural light inside. The more adventurous locals and tourists sometimes take a dip in its cool waters. Those who have sensitive skin must, however exercise precaution in taking a dip because although the pond is located far below the ground, karst water is sensitive to any kind of pollution from the outside and might cause skin irritations.
Getting There in Hinagdanan Cave, Dauis, Panglao Island
To get to the Hinagdanan Cave, one may take a tricycle ride from Tagbilaran City, which is approximately just five minutes away. Metered taxis are also available in the city.

Floating Restaurant

Loboc Bohol is home of the famous Loboc Children’s Choir, Loboc is a peaceful municipality that is world famous to its well-known river which is aptly called Loboc River. This river is one of the cleanest rivers in the country. This is the one tourist spot you don’t want to miss during your Bohol Tours.
When visiting the town of Loboc you can experience cruising along the river on board small a bancas or floating restaurant.
The Loboc River Dinner Cruise starts by the Loay Bridge which is located in the neighboring town of Loay or at the Loboc town proper where you can choose from a variety of river cruising vessels. The Loboc River cruise usually runs for an hour or so back and forth.
Make sure you ad this tour to your itinerary when visiting bohol…its something you wont want to miss….
The Loboc Bohol Floating Restaurant Cruise Prices: Php 280.00 per head (Inclusive of buffet meal, toll fee and boat rental fee)
Loboc River Location: Loboc—24 Cr km from Tagbilaran City

Tarsier

The Philippine Tarsier Foundation is one of the most important establishments n Bohol as it caters to one of the most amazing creatures known to the Philippine islands. However, tarsiers are already considered as belonging to the endangered species line. The Philippine Tarsier Foundation is currently based in Tagbilaran City which is the capital of the Bohol region. The foundation was built as a non-stock and non-profit organization duly set up as a private initiative. But because of its inherent advocacy, the Philippine Tarsier Foundation continues to receive great support from the region’s government as well as fellow NGOs. Aside from these, the Philippine Tarsier Foundation is also supported by Philippine agencies such as the Department of Tourism and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The ShipHaus is one of Bohol's new tourist attractions, which is located in Poblacion Norte, Batuan. It is uniquely shaped like a shipping vessel; thus, the name ShipHaus. It is a house owned by Capt Gaudencio Dumapias, a native of Batuan who became a successful mariner.

The house was opened in late 2011 to local and foreign tourists to showcase the culture of Batuan. One can see the local weavers at work and buy their wares at the souvenir shop.

nside the ShipHaus you will find captain’s cabin, chiefmate’s cabin, kitchen, mess hall and others. The workers are all dressed in sailor's uniform. There is a roof deck that resembles the front of the ship from which you can imagine looking into the endless ocean while taking some refreshments.
ShipHaus became prominent when it was featured in a favourite TV show. Local tourist guides and travel and tour agencies will be glad to bring you to Shiphaus. It takes around 2 hours travel time to Batuan from the city of Tagbilaran. If you want to go own your own, go to the integrated bus terminal in Dao and catch a bus going to Carmen. Look to your right upon entering the town of Batuan, Bohol. Meters away from the church you will see the Shiphaus.

How to reach:

Lots of tourist guides and travel and tour agencies will be glad to bring you to the Shiphaus. It takes around 2 hours from the City of Tagbilaran to get in touch the town of Batuan, Bohol. If you want to go own your own , from Tagbilaran City you will go to integrated bus terminal (Dao) and catch a bus going to Carmen , Bohol ( where you can see the Chocolate Hills) from Tagbilaran City, look to your right upon entering the town of Batuan, Bohol. Meters away from the church you will see the Shiphaus.

Palawan

2012-04-06T22:32:00.000-07:00

Palawan is an exquisite destination in the southwest part of the Philippine archipelago. It is a long, narrow island pointing to Borneo. It is known as the "Last Frontier" and is now being promoted as an ecotourist destination, attracting a steady stream of visitors. It is, in fact, one of the most visited tourist spots in the Philippines.
There are daily flights to Puerto Princesa-Palawan's capital-from Manila, Cebu, and Iloilo. There are also boat trips and round trips that take you directly to El Nido and Busuanga. Here, you will find diverse and rare species of flora and fauna. There is the fish-eating Palawan eagle, the scaly anteater, giant turtles. Palawan peacock pheasant, Palawan bear cat, mouse deer, and the Tabon bird. But Palawan's beautiful beaches, islands, reefs, resorts, forests, and underground rivers are what really lure visitors to it.

El Nido, Palawan

El Nido is located about 238 kilometers northwest of Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s capital. El Nido is bordered by the Linapacan Strait in the north, the municipality of Taytay in the south, the Sulu Sea in the east, and the South China Sea in the west.

Bacuit Bay is composed of 45 islands and islets, each with its own unique features. Most of the islands in El Nido have pockets of fine white sand beaches and coves – perfect for sunbathing and picnic lunches. Within some of the islands of El Nido are ancient caves with fascinating dripstone formations formed by millions of years of weathering action by rain water trickling into crevices and cavities. In other islands, stretches of limestone walls conceal a world of calm lagoons.

El Nido’s most fascinating features are the majestic karst limestone cliffs which stand guard over clear waters. Crevices in these limestone cliffs are home to swiftlets (Collocalia fuciphaga) after whose edible nests (“nido” in Spanish and the main ingredient for the gourmet nido soup) the town takes its name.

Beneath the waters of Palawan lies a stunning display of underwater life - an ideal destination for snorkelers and scuba divers. If you want to go diving, you will find one of the best diving spots in the world here-the Tubbataha Reef. Some of the spots in the northern islands are delightfully unspoiled.

Snake Island, Palawan

Snake Island is a white sand beach named as such due to its elongated and winding sand bar resembling. It is easily accessible from Puerto Princesa, the capital city of Palawan. Aside from swimming, travelers here can hire boats and snorkel off the shores and feed the fish.

For those who wish to enjoy Palawan's resplendent natural sights, there is a 30-minute bus ride to Honda Bay where boatmen will readily cruise you along the shores of Palawan and further down to the islands of Cowrie, Pandan, Snake, and Bat Island. Full or half-day cruises, snorkeling, island explorations, and accommodations are available in these islands.

For those who are interested in longer treks, there is a 3-day 2-night safari that will take you camping out in coves during the evening and exploring the beaches and waterfalls by day. Go to Puerto Princesa Underground River-Palawan's best known attraction. The river exits from a cave into a beautiful pool near the beach in the Puerto Princesa Subterranean Park (formerly St. Paul's National Park).
There are also beautiful offshore islands and caves in the northern and southern parts of Palawan. The Tabon and Diwata Caves in Quezon; El Nido, Pangalusian, Busuanga, and Coron Islands are also worth visiting. There are boat tours and trips to Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and the Underground River, that can be arranged with the hotel.

Palawan’s Baragatan Festival

Palawan’s Baragatan Festival started off on May 22 with a colorful float parade and an interesting dance parade billed "Pantiguan sa Baragatan." The latter is a showdown of municipal officials as they depict their history, culture, and tradition in dance. Fourteen municipalities joined the festival dance competition, among them are San Vicente, Araceli, Dumaran, El Nido, Linapacan, Roxas, Coron, Magsaysay (all in Northern Palawan) and Quezon, Rizal, Sofronio Española, Bataraza, Narra and Brooke’s Point (all in Southern Palawan).
As envisioned, the Pantiguan sa Baragatan showed off the diversity of Palawan’s cultures as well as the natural skill and talent of local officials who enthusiastically joined the parade in the spirit of unity and convergence which is the message of the yearly Baragatan Festival.
Gov. Joel T. Reyes himself participated in Pantiguan as he led the elected, appointed and career officials and personnel of the Provincial Government in the presentation of the Cuyuno Ati-Ati.
Based on their history, the town of Araceli presented the Pananggetan Festival in tribute to the tree of life which is one of the main sources of livelihood for the village folks. Meanwhile, the municipality of Brooke’s Point won the second prize in the Best Float competition.
The Festival, which runs until June 2 also features the richness of Palawan’s natural resources, local delicacies, arts and crafts, and the spirit of entrepreneurship of Palaweños in the LGU Trade Fairs, TLDC Trade Fair, Private Trade Fair and Garden Show. It also focuses on the skills and talents of Palaweños as they compete in the Palawan Pop Idol, Chorale Singing Competition, Munting Tinig/Dance Craze Competition and Baragatan Battle of the Band, among others.
A new event is the Baragatan y ang mga Santo, a religious activity that will be a convergence of the patron saints of these municipalities. Much-awaited events are Mutya ng Palawan and the "Saraotan sa Dalan" or the street dancing competition with P1 million, P700,000 and P300,000 at stake for the first, second and third prize winners.
Baragatan comes from the Cuyuno word "bagat," which means to meet or to gather. Thus, Baragatan is a convergence of Palaweños in a cultural, agricultural festival and trade fair.

Transportation

Daily flights from Manila to the capital city of Puerto Princesa are available on Philippine Airlines, Air Philippines, Cebu Pacific, Zest-Airways. Direct-chartered flights via Soriano Air, Pacific Air, Asian Spirit, and Sea Air can be arranged to desired destinations- Cuyo, Coron, Busuanga, or El Nido. Flight time is less than an hour.
From/To Manila. It takes 18 to 22 hours from Manila on board the Superferry. Superferry calls on Puerto Princesa once a week.
From/To Coron. It takes approximately 10 hours from Coron to Puerto Princesa on board Superferry.
From/To Cuyo/Iloilo/Cebu. Travel on board via Montenegro Shipping or Milagrosa Shipping once a week
Multicabs and tricycles with two-seater sidecars are the most accessible form of transportation. There are also buses and jeepneys. Rental cars/van for hire are available in Puerto Princesa. Pumpboat (out-riggers) rides are used for travel to various islands.