Camarines Sur Travel Guide

December 23, 2011 by Anita  
Filed under Travel And Leisure

Allan Merin asked:




Many are still looking for a one-stop travel destination where they can get closer to nature, enjoy the sun, soak into the water, do some exercises, try extreme sports, or relax at a world-class hotel. Search no more; for you need not go any farther than Camarines Sur to squeeze all of the above-mentioned activities in one memorable vacation.

Camarines Sur, the largest among the six provinces in Bicol Region, has cemented its place in the list of top travel destinations in the Philippines, thanks to the growing number of people hooked to extreme water sports. The province was not included in most Philippine travel guides until the Camarines Sur *********** Complex opened its doors to the public in May 2006. Since then, the six-hectare active park, which has facilities for wakeboarding, wakeskating, kneeboarding, and waterskiing, has buoyed the local tourism industry.

Politically subdivided into 35 municipalities and two cities, Camarines Sur is also a haven for beach bummers. One of the famous natural attractions in the province is the beaches of Caramoan, a second-class municipality perfectly made for island hopping. Its fine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters are ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Other interesting activities popular for tourists are rock climbing, caving, camping, trekking, and mountain biking.

Camarines Sur, which is about eight to ten hours drive from Manila or 45 minutes by plane, is also a magnet for Catholic faithfuls. The province is home to Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Naga City. Come September, religious enthusiasts flock to the city for a religious festival wherein the image of the Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia is paraded on a float. Old churches are also a staple fare in the province. Some of them are the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral, Quipayo Church, and Nabua Ladrillo Church.

Like any province in the archipelago, Camarines Sur also has its own share of colorful events and festivals. In San Jose town, local talents and young artists take center stage for the Harana Festival. The February 11-15 event aims to promote cultural awareness through singing and other forms of arts. Other popular occasions in Camarines Sur include Iriga City’s Tinagba Festival, Bato’s Karanowan Festival, Minabalac’s Tumatarok Festival, and Nabua’s Boa-Boahan Festival.

The province, which accounted for 55.2% of the1.3 million people who set foot on Bicol last year, has also something to offer to hikers and sightseers. Two potentially active volcanoes- Mt. Isarog and Mt. Iriga – are home to exotic flora and fauna. Along the climb, don’t forget to check out Nabuntulan Falls and Malabsay Falls. Meanwhile, the recommended destinations for spelunkers are Kalupnitan Caves in Ilibmanan and Adiangao Cave in Presentacion.

Tourists can choose from various accommodations ranging from the very simple to the luxurious. As a travel tip, place your reservations in advance to avoid any inconvenience. There are hotels and resorts offering affordable vacation packages for the budget-conscious travelers. The crunchy pili nuts and the spicy Bicol Express are must-tries for first-time and repeat visitors.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy.

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Mountain Climbing Sites in the Philippines

December 2, 2011 by Anita  
Filed under Travel And Leisure

Allan Merin asked:




Aside from being a magnet for beach bummers, the Philippines is also a household name when it comes to mountain climbing and hiking. With over 7,000 mountainous islands, the archipelago is surely every hiker’s paradise. Trekking Philippine mountains allows hikers to explore the country’s rich biodiversity.

There is a host of active volcanoes across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Hikers just need to consult a Philippine travel guide to help them get informed about the top mountain climbing sites in the country.

Here are some of the most notable mountains to conquer in the country.

Mt. Apo

Davao is home to the country’s highest peak, Mt. Apo. With an elevation of 9,692 feet, this majestic mountain serves as a sanctuary for more than 270 bird species. In 1936, then President Manuel Quezon declared Mt. Apo a national park to preserve its rich biodiversity. Experts said scaling Mt. Apo is not a technical one. It would take up to five days to conquer Mt. Apo depending on your pace.

Mt. Kitanglad

Mt. Kitanglad is one of the premier hiking destinations in the Philippines, which is known for its astonishing attractions, exquisite events, and colorful festivals. Located in Bukidnon in Mindanao, this inactive volcano has an elevation of 9,511 feet. It is home to various flora and fauna species, including unusual mossy plants, brown deer, and cloud rats. Last year, Mt. Kitanglad was declared an ASEAN Heritage Park.

Mt. Dulang-Dulang

Dulang-Dulang is the second-highest mountain in the Philippines at 9,639 feet above sea level. Considered sacred by local folks, this mountain in Bukidnon is home to more than 50 mammal species such as squirrels, monkeys, flying lemurs, and wild boars. Scaling Mt. Dulang-Dulang is logistically challenging, according to expert climbers. So it is best to consult local climbers and be equipped with travel information about the mountain.

Mt. Pulag

Make your travel stories about the Philippines more exciting by climbing Mt. Pulag, the nation’s third-highest mountain. Standing 9,587 feet above sea level, this mountain in the northern region is considered a favorite among local and foreign climbers. It is known for its outstanding vegetation and wildlife. It would take at least three days to reach the top of Mt. Pulag.

Mt. Halcon

For climbers who want to bring their adventures to a higher gear, then Mt. Halcon is tailor-made for you. Towering 8,484 feet, the fourth-highest peak in the Philippines is considered the most challenging mountain to climb because it experiences frequent rains and floods. Reaching its summit is rewarding, as it provides a breathtaking view of landscapes in the municipality of Baco in Oriental Mindoro.

There are more recommended mountain climbing sites across the Philippines. Some of them are Mt. Banahaw in Quezon, Mt. Makiling in Laguna, Mt. Isarog in Camarines Sur, and Mt. Hibok-Hibok in Camiguin. To avoid any inconvenience, it is advisable to check out local resorts and hotels for accommodations and vacation packages that will suit your budget and preference.

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Amanpulo – The Ultimate Secret

October 8, 2011 by Anita  
Filed under Travel And Leisure

Rich Quiambao asked:




Among the paradise of islands that is the Philippines, among the choices of escapes around the world, and among all the chains of resorts and hotels all over the globe, there exists a hidden secret. This is a secret so coveted, 99% of the inhabitants of the Philippines doesn’t even know its there: the private resort Amanpulo.

The private island is a so luxurious, decadent and extravagant, it is on a class of tourist destinations of its own.

Owned by the AmanResorts luxury group, Amanpulo bears its parents’ name “aman” meaning peace. The word “pulo” on the other hand is the native Filipino word for “island”. Amanresorts is only composed of 15 or so luxury spots in different places, so Amanpulo is no less lavish and exciting as it other more well-known cousins. Amanpulo just opened in the Pamalican Island of Palawan, in the Eastern archipelago of the Philippines. Getting there and leaving there is by private jet, though one can assure you leaving paradise would be pretty hard. Well, at least the jet ride is seamless and comfortable.

Whats more, since this is a private island, getting in is no easy feat. One must know the appropriate channels and get in the right time to obtain a reservation. For a summer vacation in a year or two. One may not know this, but one of the sole entries in the book Places to See Before You Die for the Philippines is Amanpulo, so it is definitely worth the wait.

In Amanpulo, it is said that wide, powdery-white beaches are the wonder, compounded by the seascape proved majestic by the view of nearby Manamoc Island. Sometimes, when visitors stare out at Manamoc form the footprinted shorelines, do they ever wonder whats its like to be on that island paradise, then find themselves on the exact same fantasy in reality? The Aman gives no less.

The Beach Club of course, is said to be Amanpulo’s pride and joy. The relaxing wide are is spread with soft decks and pillows, with walkways leading to the pristine pools or the magnificent beach. The beach is the best choice by morning, while subtly lit pools are the choice place to unwind in romantic nights.

In addition, the place simply called The Restaurant serves both Filipino and international cuisines. And from the sound of the reviews, The Restaurant is on a league of its own, a throwback to when hotel restaurants were the best places to dine in. Serving fresh greens form its own vegetable and herb garden, The Restaurant will settle everyone’s worries over what’s good to eat because well, everything is good to eat.

Beach side casitas, nipa hut inspired but very luxurious lodges, are spaced very wide apart. This gives the impression of having your own beach paradise because you can choose to rarely see other guests. The views are fantastic, and a camera is a must. Maybe an underwater camera is a must too, since only 300m form the shore, a reef so full of color and life awaits anyone.

Coming clean, this is not an advertising ad for Amanpulo or the Aman chain of resorts. This is just a simple yearning to go there, one of the best places on earth unabashedly called paradise by those who have seen it. To taste the secret.

Local Philippines is your one-stop source of information about the Philippines with its fascinating travel destinations, colorful festivals and premier attractions.

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Wildlife Getaways in the Philippines

October 7, 2011 by Anita  
Filed under Travel And Leisure

Allan Merin asked:




The Philippines is certainly an envy of other countries because of its rich natural resources. Comprising some 7,107 islands, the archipelago has one of the world’s highest biodiversities. Various plant and animal species that are endemic to the country have been attracting wildlife experts and nature lovers to the Philippines.

Local environment department officials said the Philippines is home to some 1,137 species of amphibians, birds, and mammals. However, around half of them are now considered “threatened” due to man-made perturbations. Forest denudation, illegal hunting, poaching, and urbanization have been destroying wildlife habitat. This has been a cause for concern of environment preservation groups over the past years.

To raise awareness on environment protection, related government agencies and public groups are organizing guided tours to showcase the country’s wildlife. Here is a guide to some of the wildlife parks and nature centers in the Philippines.

Calauit Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary

One of the leading tourist attractions in the island paradise of Palawan is the Calauit Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary. This 3,700-hectare sanctuary, which opened in 1976, is home to various animal species such as giraffe, zebra, bushbuck, gazelle, elands, deer, and other exotic local and African animals. There are also more than 70 bird species living at the Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary.

Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the island province of Bohol, the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary is also a must-go destination for travelers looking to explore the Philippine wildlife. This 134-hectare shelter serves as a breeding and protection center for the Philippine tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates. Around 500 tarsiers are currently housed inside the sanctuary, where exotic birds such a serpent eagles, parrots, grass owls can be found.

Albay Park and Wildlife

Aside from Mayon Volcano, Albay is also making a name on wildlife conservation. Set in Legazpi, Albay Park and Wildlife hosts more than 400 animals such as mammals, birds, and reptiles. Visitors can get up close and personal with a number of raptor species such as grass owl, Philippine eagle owl, and Brahminy kite. The park also allows guests to relax with its amenities such as a food court and picnic groves.

Zoobic Safari

Enjoy an ultimate safari adventure in the Philippines by visiting a 25-hectare amusement park in Subic, Zambales. Zoobic Safari offers a number of attractions such as Tiger Safari, where some 400-pound tigers are roaming around. Snakes from around the world, meanwhile, are featured at the Serpentarium. Visitors can also set their feet on steel walkway where over 200 crocodiles are resting below.

Exploring Philippine wildlife doesn’t end from the above-mentioned parks and sanctuaries. You can also spend a day in Donsol, Sorsogon, for some whale shark viewing, or visit Olango Island, which serves as a stopover of more than 50,000 migrating birds. There many other wildlife getaway destinations to choose from whether you are in Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao.

Kansieo.com

Backpacking Destinations in the Philippines

September 16, 2011 by Anita  
Filed under Travel And Leisure

Allan Merin asked:




If you’re in for an ultimate travel adventure, then why not go backpacking in the Philippines. With 7,107 islands, you will never run of destinations to choose from in this Southeast Asian nation. Imagine hopping from one island to another while enjoying various attractions and sceneries across the archipelago. That’s a peak of what to do in this archipelago.

Though often left out by international tourists due to security issues, the Philippines is considered a backpacker’s paradise. The country is home to distinctive events and festivals, breathtaking natural and man-made attractions, luxurious and affordable hotels and resorts, and hospitable people.

Getting around the Philippines is not as tricky as some people might think. With improved infrastructure and public transport system, backpacking in this tropical country has been made easy. Equipped yourself with comfortable clothes, a sturdy pair of shoes, a video camera, and spare cash and you’re ready for a backpacking adventure in the Philippines. A travel guide and a map will also come handy.

Here are some of the recommended backpacking destinations in the country. Let’s exclude Palawan, Boracay, and Manila from the list as they have been featured many times in related articles.

Laguna

Because of its immediate proximity to Metro Manila, Laguna is among the ideal backpacking getaways in the Philippines. There are lots of things to do in this southern province including hiking the majestic Mt. Makiling, shooting the rapids in Pagsanjan, swimming at resorts in Pansol, and shopping for slippers in Liliw. Other points of interest in Laguna are the Underground Cemetery in Nagcarlan, the Rizal Shrine in Calamba, and the Makiling Botanical Garden in Los Ba?os. The best shopping sites for souvenirs can be found in the towns of Liliw, Pakil, and Lumban.

Batangas

Another popular backpacking destination near Metro Manila is Batangas. This province is known for its pristine beaches and top-notch resorts that are more affordable than those in Boracay. A must-see attraction in Batangas is the Taal Lake and Volcano, where regular tours are available for tourists. Batangas is also a perfect place for pilgrimage tourism. It is home to some of the country’s oldest churches such as the Basilica of San Martin de Tours and the Church of San Juan. Never leave Batangas without tasting its famous goto (congee) and lechon (roasted pig).

Sagada

The municipality of Sagada in Mountain Province is a backpacker’s delight. Known for its relaxing rural setting, Sagada is frequented by backpackers looking for something different to explore. The most notable attraction in the town is the Hanging Coffins of Sagada, a sacred burial site for indigenous people. Other recommended sites to visit in Sagada include the Bokong Falls, Echo Valley, Sumaguing and Lumiang Caves, and Lake Danum. Don’t forget to taste various coffee varieties in town.

Aside from the above-mentioned destinations, other premier backpacking sites in the Philippines include Davao, Cebu, Baguio, Pampanga, and Iloilo. To avoid travel inconveniences, learn about your target destinations in advance.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.

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Magical Philippines

August 14, 2011 by Anita  
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Amelia Generalao asked:




Philippine archipelago comprises 7, 101 islands with three major group of islands; Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. This Southeast Asian country is home to peace loving and diligent Filipinos with warm smiles ready to greet you. Philippines is a country that exudes beauty, rich culture and wonderful stories that is evident in all parts of the archipelago.

The captivating wonders of Philippines allured tourists and travelers, foreigners and locals, from the breathtaking views of Batanes down to the southern island of Tawi Tawi. You need not spend a fortune to experience a truly tropical holiday as everything you love can be found in the Philippines at cost effective rates. Its world class scuba diving spots with amazing coral reefs and inviting powdery white sand beaches in Boracay, Palawan, Bohol and Cebu make a perfect destination to kick off pressures at work and temporarily forget the crowded city life. The amazing wonders of Philippine archipelago never fail to amaze backpackers, thrill seekers and adventurers from its highest peak, Mount Apo to the wild river of Cagayan de Oro. Whether it is a family vacation, romantic getaway, group outing or educational tour, Philippines has it all.

Discover colorful festivals and in different towns and cities that enchants the imagination of the world. These annual festivals have long been a part of the Filipino culture not only to party but to boosts spiritual belief. Among these major celebrations are: Sinulog in Cebu, Kadayawan in Davao, Maskara festival in Bacolod, Ati Atihan in Aklan, Dinagyang in Iloilo and Panagbenga in Baguio.

Experience its diverse culture, charm, mouthwatering foods, sweet fruits and exotic sceneries! Discover Philippines!

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A Paradise Called the Philippines

August 12, 2011 by Anita  
Filed under Travel And Leisure

Greg Pierce asked:




The Philippines is considered one of the richest countries in terms of natural resources. It is composed of 7,107 islands and has a tropical environment that can be enjoyed by any tourist. It is a place where you can relax and enjoy all of its panoramic views, whether natural or man-made. It is known to the whole world that the country has some of the best tourist destinations. Some of these places may not be that grand or majestic, but they will be spectacular, nevertheless, even for local folks.

Enjoying the different destinations in the Philippines is easy and may be due to the fact that English is considered to be the second tongue. Considering that the country has over 180 languages, many people do speak English, even in the rural areas. Some foreigners may wonder why this is so. It’s actually because Americans were the country’s last conquerors. The country also has strong ties with English-speaking countries. When you tour the country, you will find your vacation more enjoyable because it’s easy to understand why things are the way they are. It’s also easy to understand the Filipino culture because they will know how to converse to you.

If you’re planning to spend a holiday in this tropical haven, it would be great to know a little about it. the Philippines is an archipelago where islands are united by seas and divided by mountains. Geographically speaking, since the country is a composition of many different islands, people tend to share their sub-cultures to each other and everything will still be united as the larger Filipino culture that all regions will be known for. Because of this geographical nature of the country, Filipinos can be so diverse yet one in a unique way.

Today, the Philippines has risen as one of the most fabulous destinations in Asia. There are many spectacular views that any tourist can enjoy. If you go to mountains, you can see the man-made rice terraces in Banquet which were made by the natives of the mountains as a way of sustaining their livelihood. The Banawe Rice Terraces are actually counted as one of the eight wonders of the world, and so are the Chocolate Hills of Bohol. Those who love the underwater will also marvel at the rich marine life in the country’s many diving sites.

Most of all, tourists will often leave the country thinking of it not only as a land of beautiful views and beaches but also as a place where warm and spirited hosts will effortlessly go out of their way to accommodate an eager tourist. Immediately after arriving in the Philippines, most foreigners would see how friendly and hospitable Filipinos are. In fact, some actually come back because they have found love in the Philippines. This love does not always mean romantic love. It can also be a fascination for the country’s fabulous attractions, including its culture.

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Top Ten Beautiful Sights that the Philippines has to Offer

August 9, 2011 by Anita  
Filed under Travel And Leisure

Jonathan Williams asked:




The Philippines is an archipelago made up of about 7,100 islands. This archipelago country is located in Southeast Asia. In Asia, it is also one of the popular countries that get visited yearly by tourists, and here are the top ten places that they love going back to.

1.) Intramuros

This walled “city” is located in Manila. It served as a walled settlement of the Spaniards during their occupation of the country and, as such, has its own museums as well as churches and wonderful ruins. Today, this well-preserved Intramuros is one of the visited places in the Philippines.

2.) Rizal Park

Also called Luneta, this is a very good place if you want a leisurely walk. This park is dedicated to the Philippines’ national hero, Jose Rizal, who was not only a poet but a very good writer during the Spanish era, and this was also the place where he was executed. Now, this is a popular place for picnics.

3.) Baywalk

This is a walking distance from the Rizal Park. You can find here numerous restaurants and bars offering wonderful foods and drinks. This is also a nice place to stroll along as well as listen to the many bands that play at night.

4.) Mount Pinatubo

This majestic volcano that wreaked havoc in the lives of Filipinos during the early 1990s is located in Pampanga. Here, you can take guided hikes on some parts of its slope. You can also take a refreshing dip in Pinatubo’s crater lake.

5.) Nayong Pilipino

If you want to tour famous destinations of the Philippines in one spot, then visit Nayong Pilipino. This cultural park has a miniature Philippine Islands including some of the beautiful spots of the country. You can also buy here some native foods as well as souvenirs.

6.) Camp John Hay

When you visit Baguio, the country’s summer capital, be sure to visit also Camp John Hay. This used to be an American Military area but was later given to the Philippine government. Now, it is a recreational center with golf club, and it also offers horseback riding as well as camping.

7.) Boracay

Boracay Island is located in the Visayas Region. What this beautiful island offers is its majestic white sand beaches. This is a popular tourist destination of not only the locals but the foreigners as well, and there are a lot of activities here like the usual water sports as well as trendy bars and discos during summertime.

8.) Mount Apo

This magnificent mountain can be found in Davao. Here, you can go nature tripping as well as hiking. You will also see here the Philippine Eagle, which is said to be one of the biggest eagles of the world.

9.) Mayon Volcano

This wonderful and perfectly cone-shaped volcano can be found in Bicol. What makes this a major tourist spot is that you will find here the bell tower of an old church that was buried when it erupted during the early 1800s, and also, with that major eruption, it buried the Cagsawa town. Now, this is a must-see when you visit the Philippines, and you can also buy your souvenirs here as well as the famous pili nut candy.

10.) Camarines Sur Water Sports Complex

Located in Pili, Camarines Sur in Bicol, this is fast becoming a must-visit place whenever you visit the Philippines. If you love cable wakeboarding, then this is the place to be as it boasts of a wonderful cable wakeboarding experience as well as modern amenities. You can also find quaint cabanas here where you can spend your summer or vacation, plus, the services here are excellent.

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Discovering the Beauty of the Islands of the Philippines

June 1, 2011 by Anita  
Filed under Travel And Leisure

Luvi Marie Corcuera asked:




The Philippines, commonly known as the “Pearl of the Orient” is an archipelago of 7107 islands with a wide variety of great destinations considered by many as paradise. From the hustle and bustle of the great city of Manila to many of the true white-sand beaches and virgin forests scattered throughout the islands, it is a place where everyone can find something that can suit their taste.

Discovering the beauty of each of the islands is a task that may take a lifetime but if you know what you like then you can choose from any of the destinations below that suit your particular needs and taste. Whether you just a tourist looking for the good old souvenirs or the adventurer seeking to find the next new place to discover there is something for you.

For Nature Lovers.

Nature has blessed the islands with a variety of natural resources and this includes virgin rain forests, indigenous wild life and scenic locations. If you are fond of nature then you have many choices to places to visit, from Zamboanga in the south to Vigan in the north.
For the wild life enthusiasts you can go to Davao where you will find the endangered Philippine Eagle, or to Donsol where the famous giant whale sharks ply the local waters, and perhaps take a dive in the waters of Puerto Galera which is home to some of the best coral reefs anywhere in the world.

For the scene lovers, take a trip to Palawan where scenic rock formations, underwater rivers and magnificent caves are abundant. Another place you can visit is Albay which home to the Philippines most active volcano Mt Mayon, a volcano with a perfect cone that has erupted over a few dozen times in the past century. Pagudpud in Ilocos north of the Philippines offers some of the most scenic and panoramic views on the islands which include the Mabogabog Falls and Saud beach.

For the Beach Bums

If there is one thing that Paradise Philippines is famous for it is the great number of sandy white beaches that are scattered around the thousands of islands. From the popular beaches of Boracay to the hidden beaches of Palawan there are literally hundreds of beautiful beaches to visit. A plane or boat ride away from Manila you can travel to any of the paradise beach locations in the Philippines.

A few of the best beaches in the Philippines include Coron, a town in the Busuanga Island in Northern Palawan, Bohol with hundreds of white sand beaches, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, and Cebu City. Where ever you go there are beaches and resorts that will suit everyone’s needs.

For the Party Goers

When the streets of Manila light up after dusk a whole new look to the city takes shape. From the neon lights of the red light districts to the hundreds of casinos, the karaoke bars and discos, and to the wonderful restaurants, whatever you want to do you can. You can party all night in the discos of Makati or the contemporary clubs of Manila and Quezon city, there is virtually no limit to where you can go to have fun and party the night away.

For the History Buffs

Hundreds of years of history have shaped the Philippines into what it is today, a melting pot of cultures from European, Asian and North American cultures. If history is what you are after, then you will discover a vast number of historic locations you can visit on many the Paradise Philippines [http://paradisephilippines.continentalgirl.com] islands, from the walled city of Intramuros in Old Manila built by the conquering Spaniards in the 16th century, to the Rice Terraces of Banaue built thousands of years ago by the indigenous natives of the cordillera, and to the more recent ruins of Corregidor which served as fort for the American troops during World War II.

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Travel to Philippines – Be Cool in Bicol

May 22, 2011 by Anita  
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Allan Merin asked:




The Bicol Region is one of the hottest travel destinations in the Philippines. Lying on the southeastern part of Luzon, Bicolandia combines natural wonders, fascinating attractions, good food, and hospitable people to attract visitors in and outside the archipelago of 7,107 islands. It is no wonder, then, that the region has been raking in huge amounts of money from the travel sector.

Bicol, comprising six provinces namely Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate, and Sorsogon, has a lot to offer for discerning and demanding travelers. The local tourism industry thrives from the region’s beautiful beaches, colorful festivals, exquisite events, delightful cuisines, and rich cultural and historical heritage, among others.

Getting to Bicol is never a problem. There are many ways to reach this top-notch travel destination. It all depends on your budget, time, and preference. Dozens of bus lines have non-stop trips to Bicol. However, land travel from Manila will take around eight to ten hours. So if you willing to shell out more money, you can take a direct flight to the region. Travel time is less than an hour.

To guide you on your ultimate Bicol escapade, here is a list of the things to do while in Bicolandia.

Trekking and Sightseeing in Mayon Volcano

Probably the best way to kick off your Bicolandia adventure is to take a glimpse of the majestic Mayon Volcano in Albay. Towering over 2,400 feet above sea level, this active volcano has been the region’s identity. Its perfect conical shape makes it a favorite trekking destination for daredevils. But if you’re less adventurous, a sightseeing trip at the Cagsawa Church Ruins will do.

Whale Shark Watching in Donsol

The presence of whale sharks in Donsol waters has placed this municipality in Sorsogon on the international tourism map. The local government, in cooperation with resorts and divers associations, offers various packages that will get you up close and personal with these gentle giants, locally known as butanding. Aside from whale shark watching, tourists can also enjoy different water recreation activities such as diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Wakeboarding in CamSur

Take your Bicol vacation to new heights by going on a wakeboarding try in Camarines Sur. The CamSur *********** Complex in Pili is a mecca for wakeboarding and other water sports enthusiasts. This six-hectare property is complete with the finest and the latest amenities that will suit the need of the adventure seekers.

Get Wet and Wild in Caramoan

Fond of the hit reality television show “Survivor”? Then exploring the beauty of Caramoan Island is right for you. The island, which is isolated from the rest of Camarines Sur, is perfect for camping, rock climbing, kayaking, trekking, kite boarding, and mountain biking. The eighth-season of the French edition of “Survivor” was shot entirely on Caramoan Island.

Rev Up Your Spiritual Life in Naga

Located on the outskirts of the city is the Peñafrancia Basilica, the home of the miraculous image of the Patroness of Bicolandia, Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia. Catholic faithfuls flock to Naga every September for a religious festival wherein the image of the Lady is placed on a barge while pilgrims riding smaller boats follow the procession in the river.

Try Bicol Express

A great way to wrap up your Bicol getaway is to indulge on the region’s sumptuous food, particularly Bicol Express. This popular Filipino dish, locally known as sinilihan, is a stew made from long chilies, coconut milk, shrimp paste, onion, pork, and garlic. With Bicol Express’ growing popularity, restaurants in and outside the region have started offering their own version of this really spicy dish.

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