Allan Merin asked:




The Philippines, which is known for its thrilling tourist attractions and colorful festivals, is slowly making a name for itself as a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. An emerging water recreational activity in the country is parasailing. With its rich water resources, the Philippines is an ideal place for this high-flying adventure.

Initially available in posh resorts in the Bahamas, Hawaii, Guam, and Australia, parasailing is steadily gaining more following in the Philippines due to its inclusion to various vacation packages by offered resort and vacation rental operators across the country.

Parasailing, which is also known as parascending, allows an individual to stay in the air for several minutes while strapped in nylon harnesses. A boat usually carries the parascender into the air. The sport appears difficult but experts insist that parasailing doesn’t need any special skill other than sheer courage. Enjoying the high-adrenaline experience is one of the common tips shared by experts to beginners.

Here is a guide on where to find the best parasailing sites across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Mactan Island

Situated on the southeast of Cebu, Mactan is one of the leading parasailing destinations in the country. Most accommodations in the island entice tourists with their various water recreation facilities where you can go parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving, and sailboating. While in the air, the parascender gets a fascinating view of the islands of Bohol, Sta. Rosa, Olango, and Cebu. Pristine beaches and rich marine resources have placed Mactan on the Philippine travel map.

Boracay Island

Parasailing adventures also await holidaymakers in Boracay, which is famous for its white sand beaches. A brave soul is treated with a bird’s-eye-view of the whole island. While most resorts in Boracay arrange parasailing activities for their clients, tourists can also hire the services of hawkers who offer much lower prices. A 15-minute parasailing escapade in Boracay usually costs between Php 1,500 and Php 2,500. Parasailing allows tourists to get their energy flowing in enjoying various events and activities in Boracay.

Subic Bay

Another favorite parasailing site in the Philippines is the Subic Bay in Zambales. Since it is just a couple of hours away from Manila, most water adventurers in the metro quench their thirst for parasailing and other recreational activities in Subic. Parasailers get an unforgettable view of the Subic Bay and Grande Island. Other water activities in Subic include scuba and wreck diving, yachting, and kayaking.

Coron Island

The island paradise of Palawan has everything for every tourist, including parasailing. In Coron, a famous travel getaway in the province, one can enjoy a view of the island around 400 feet above the water. The island, which is also famous for its pleasant rock formations, is considered the best wreck diving site in the Philippines. Wreck dive sites are found in a depth as shallow as ten to 30 feet and as deep as 120 to 140 feet.

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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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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Alexis Ray Celestino asked:




Here are some tips to help guide you and other travelers find these historical sites:

1. Ask around.

When you have time to visit any locality, fell free to ask the local residents on where they go to hear mass, or where you can find the oldest church, the miraculous shrines, someone surely will direct you on your way.

2. Buy a Travel guide and Map.

This is of course a must for any traveler, especially a foreigner or even a local first timer. Or else, how can you expect to get around without any form of knowing how to navigate your way. Travel guides and maps, such as the Philippine atlas and E-Z maps are easily purchased in bookstores and department stores. These are maps that are also available at the tourism office in any locality.

3. Search the Web.

You can also search the internet on anything and everything about the Philippines. There are many websites that feature the country and touch extensively on various topics, including old churches and historical religious sites.

Perhaps you can visit the Google website and look under:

a) Churches in the Philippines

b) Wow Philippines old churches

c) Baroque Churches in the Philippines

d) Philippines Churches

As you search on those different sites, you can see their different pictures, historical backgrounds, statues of the different Saints and altars. You can also read their different history from when they were built, why they were built and the people involved in building the different Gothic designs of the churches and the beautiful garden designs of the shrines.

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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.

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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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Allan Merin asked:




With its wide selection of tourist attractions, the Philippines is an ideal site for sightseeing tours. Home to colorful festivals and exquisite natural wonders, this Southeast Asian nation has a lot of visual treats to offer for travelers.

There are notable tourist spots to visit throughout the country’s more than 7,000 islands. This is a testament that the Philippines ranks among the top nations offering an impressive selection of sightseeing attractions. Though internationally famous for its white sand beaches, this predominantly Catholic republic also boasts of delicate colonial architectures and breathtaking natural sceneries in almost every town.

Here is a guide to some of the best sightseeing destinations in the Philippines.

Manila

Manila is not only the country’s capital but also the center of cultural heritage. Explore the Philippines’ rich Spanish legacy with a trip to Intramuros (Walled City), which was built by the Spaniards in the 16th century. Inside the compound, you can find old places of worship such as the San Agustin Church and the Manila Cathedral. Other points of interest in Intramuros are Fort Santiago and Casa Manila. Also, never leave Manila without visiting the Luneta Park, where a statue of national hero Jose Rizal is erected.

Corregidor

Take a trip down memory lanes by visiting Corregidor, an island that served as an important defense fortress for American and Filipino soldiers during World War II. Some of the attractions in this historical place include the Pacific War Memorial, the Battery Way, the Mile-Long Barracks, and the Malinta Tunnel. It takes a shade over an hour to reach Corregidor from Manila, where day and night tour packages are available.

Baguio

Its unique attractions have made Baguio a renowned sightseeing destination in northern Philippines. Dubbed as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, the city is home to a dozens of scenic spots such as The Mansion, Burnham Park, Session Road, Camp John Hay, and the Baguio Botanical Garden. While plying the dizzying Kennon Road, have your camera ready for some spectacular countryside views.

Legazpi

Legazpi, the provincial capital of Albay, is one of Bicol region’s top tourist destinations. This first-class city is home to the world’s famous Mayon Volcano, which is known for its perfect conical shape. The year 1814 is said to be the volcano’s worst eruption. A remainder of this grim past can be found at the Cagsawa Ruins Park.

Banaue

Another premier tourist destination in the northern region is Banaue. This town of more than 20,000 people is the site of the Banaue Rice Terraces, a 2,000-year-old man-made leveled surfaces carved into the mountains of Ifugao. Don’t be surprised if gaze in wonder once seeing this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bohol

Aside from its pristine beaches, Bohol is widely known for the Chocolate Hills. These unusual geological formations are scattered in the towns of Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan. The dome-shaped hills are actually limestone covered with green grass. Bohol, which is located in the Central Visayas region, is also famous for a tarsier sanctuary and the Sandugo Festival.

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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Claire Ortega asked:




The Philippines is a country of diversity – brimming with colorful people living in colorful places. But not when it comes to the weather. There are only two seasons in the Philippines: wet and dry. But don’t let bad weather keep you from having fun on your trip! A little Philippines travel guide will go a long way.

CLIMATE CHANGE

Climate change has affected the weather in tropical Philippines, too. There used to be a clear point when the seasons started and ended. Today though, Filipinos (and their visitors) experience unexpected weather changes: the sun could be shining warmly one moment, and heavy rain could be pelting down the next. But generally, the country experiences its warmest from April to October. The rest of the year is relatively colder because of the monsoon winds. On average, twenty typhoons enter the country yearly; the majority of which occur during the latter half of the year.

LOCAL WEATHER

Some places in the Philippines are known to have their own weather system – specially in mountainous areas. Weather could also be magnified in places near beaches or other bodies of water. It is best to keep updated with weather changes from local and international news. PAG-ASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical & Astronomical Services Administration) is the government weather bureau. They publish hourly reports whenever a typhoon hits the country.

BE PREPARED

During your stay in the Philippines, always bring around your weapons against the elements. Sun block is good for preventing painful sunburns (specially for those with sensitive skin). Umbrellas can shield you from both the harsh sun and the pelting rain. Hats with wide brims or visors protect your hair and eyes. Sunglasses can help prevent the sun from damaging your vision. And fans can help keep you cool through the humid days.

Keep these Philippines travel information in mind, and you will enjoy your stay in the Philippines come rain or come shine.

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Rich Quiambao asked:




Skydiving has to be one of those ultimate thrills. A lot of people have written the deed into their bucket lists, vowing to do it at least once in their lives. What better time is there than now? Go on and cross that list, especially when you are in the Philippines.

Like all good things, it takes practice to prepare, supervision to experience and a whole lot of planning to get it going. In the Philippines islands, destinations for skydiving is quickly becoming a sport of choice, and now there are three major drop zones that can cater to your falling heart’s desire. Here is a short but sweet Philippines travel guide for our best drop areas:

Cebu: Drop ‘Till You…Well, Drop
The Cebu Sport Parachute Club, Inc. is a friendly and experienced club based in Lapu-lapu City. They boast of a connection and access with the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the central airport for the Visayas region.

This is certainly a help, because they can give a hand in processing the permits needed for the jump and chart flights for jumps. For experienced jumpers, Cebu certainly does not disappoint, as tandem and solo jumps can be arranged depending on your experience.

Cebu remains to be one of the meccas in skydiving in the country. Group jumps can be scheduled, and beginners and experts can have quite the experience. As far as Philippine tourists can say, the views of the quiet sunny island are worth every second of falling. That is why they travel season after season.

Clark: Too Close to Back Out
Static Line Jumping in Clark Base in the province of Pampanga is just a short ride away, two or three hours by car. The North Luzon Expressway has made the destination very easy, so a jump is just quite a short jump away.

Best done from November to early June, Skydiving in the former military base promises fair weather, nice winds and an equipped airport. This is so popular, there is a one month reservation wait enforceable to everyone.

After a morning of instructions, the dive would be in the afternoon, when the sun is less merciful and the clouds are just perfect. Here in Clark, they are proud of first achievements, so they do give out Official First Jump Certificates to first-timers. Definitely THE place for beginners and daredevils.

Tanauan: Quite Literal
Less than two hours away from Manila proper, Tanauan in the nearby province of Batangas is accessible to hikers, commuters and back-packers traveling without a car. Daily trips by bus are available throughout the province.

The skydiving base here has a 1200 airstrip with several aircrafts specifically chosen for jumping. Equipment is sturdy and new while safeguards consist of state of the art automatic devices. They can also prepare an alternate site for you or reschedule the jump for some other time.

The word “Tanauan” literally means “view”, and boy are you in for a scenery. The drop zone is between the lush greenery of Mt. Makiling and the famous volcano-within-a-lake Taal Volcano. Because of the experience and the attractions, Tanauan proudly dubs itself as the Skydiving Capital of the Philippines.

Experienced skydivers of twenty years or more are confident that skydiving in the Philippines are here to stay and prosper. So the best way to do this is to roll your sleeves up and just jump. The Philippines can be a different experience seen from high above.

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Allan Merin asked:




For many years, the Philippines has been known as a first-class travel getaway in Asia. Its fascinating beaches, colorful events and festivals, and premier attractions make the country one of the most frequented tourist destinations in the region.

One way to make your visit to the Philippines memorable is to explore the country’s night time offerings. Nightlife in the archipelago of 7,107 islands is truly a big bash, considering how fun-loving and good-natured the Filipinos are. Bars and clubs have been mushrooming everywhere, especially in urban and metropolitan areas. Even hotels and resorts are hosting various gatherings to cater to the needs of the growing number of party animals in the country. Even during weeknights or an ordinary working day, Filipinos are always finding ways to relax and unwind.

Here is a guide to the best places where you can enjoy, sing, and dance all night long.

Manila
Manila is not only the capital of the Philippines but also the center of non-stop night time festivities. A famous nightlife venue in the city is Malate. This district is known for its bars and clubs along the portion of M.H. del Pilar, Mabini, and Adriatico streets. Restaurants and café have also been sprouting in the area. A visit to gimmick areas along Roxas Blvd and Manila Bay is also recommended.

Makati
Known as the financial capital of the Philippines, Makati is another perfect place to unwind after a day’s work. The city, which is home to dizzying skyscrapers and luxurious accommodations, also hosts upscale restaurants and bars where you can party all night. The Makati Commercial Center, Greenbelt, and The Fort are some of the most sought-after evening sites in the city. You can also hang out in Jupiter and J.P. Rizal streets.

Quezon City
Quezon City, the most populous city in the country, also offers a variety of entertainment at night. Affordable bar chows and beers make the city a favorite among partygoers. Clubs are located close to each other that you can literally bar hop. Timog Ave, Libis, and Cubao are some of the must-visit nightlife venues in Quezon City.

Boracay Island
Nightlife in the Philippines is not only confined in the city centers. Aside from its white sand beaches, Boracay Island is also home to bars and other night spots where you can drink, dance, sing, and unwind. Hotels and resorts are also ideal venues to enjoy your nocturnal life in Boracay.

Subic
A wide selection of nightlife adventure can be found in Subic. From live band to disco, the city is known for its lively party atmosphere. Out in this first-class municipality are foreigners and expatriates that make Subic their second home. The Magsaysay Blvd is akin to exciting night time offerings.

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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Robert J. Carlton asked:




Do you have your trip booked and ready to take off on a dream vacation? There are some things to remember when preparing for your trip. Forgetting something or being ill prepared won’t be the end of the world but the added frustration can be prevented. Travel preparation is crucial and here are some tips.

Some people brag about how many outfits or how many shoes they packed. Over packing can create unnecessary headaches and frustration. If you need formal clothing then bring one outfit and several accessories. If you’re going to the beach then don’t bring any cold weather clothes since you won’t need them. Bring clothing that is of the same color scheme so you can mix and match easily. Neutral colors such as black and beige are easy to dress up or dress down and accessorize. Transfer toiletries into travel size containers and put them in leak proof sealable bags.

If you’ll be hiking or trekking then bring a backpack for a carryon since you’re sure to need one. If you’re planning on doing some shopping then consider bringing a half empty bag since you’ll need space for your purchases. Save space in your bag by stuffing shoes and folding your clothes as compact as possible.

If you’re traveling with young children then pack a small bag for them to carry. Include some favorite snacks and some new toys to keep them occupied. Consider bringing a portable DVD player so they can watch their favorite kids show or cartoon. Think twice about coloring books and crayons; they may sound like a good idea but there is a temptation to draw on seats and tray tables.

It can be hard, if not impossible to find prescription medication at an airport or on the road so pack any medications that you may need in your carry on bag. If your child needs medication or has allergies, ensure you bring their medication as well.

If you’re taking a tour to a place like the scenic spots of Benidorm then check with the company or tour guide and find out what amenities are provided. They can also advise you on what items to bring with you. Keep in mind that many things such as toiletries, film and camping equipment can be purchased at your destination.

Never pack your travel documents, medication or money in your checked luggage since there is a chance that your bag may be delayed or lost. Most countries have ATM’s so there is no need to carry large amounts of cash.

If you’re traveling by plane then make sure you get to the airport and check in as early as possible. Many airlines allow you to you check in and print your boarding passes at home.

Now you’re prepared and ready to take your dream vacation. Take plenty for pictures!

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