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Friends, Family and Fulfillment in the Philippines
December 27, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Nicci Hawkins asked:
What makes us interested in international travel? For some it might be the lure of an exotic country, a recommendation from a friend or the need to flee the rain in the summer (as is often the case in the UK). For me, it was disillusionment with my degree and the need to get out of London, so I looked to travel and in particular to volunteering as a form of escapism. I had the idea that I could go somewhere and impart some of my knowledge, some of my time, and hopefully give back to someone along the way. I had the vision that I could the world, albeit in a very small way.
Altruistic? In part, but I also wanted to get out of my situation and this seemed like a way of feeling better about it, as well as making 11-month orphans in the Philippines smile. This trip was my first solo experience, and to say that I was nervous is an understatement! Arriving into Tacloban Airport though, opened my eyes to another world. The air was light and fresh and there were luscious green palm trees and banana plantations everywhere. I was stunned at the beauty but also confronted by the fact that the reality of life here was not as I knew it. The Filipino standard of living in this area is incredibly low and I finally realized that I was about to experience an extremely different way of life.
Throughout my time in the Philippines, I was pointed at, stared and laughed at (especially when I attempted to go for a run round the block, but I have since learned that Filipinos rarely walk long distances, let alone run). But the longer I was there, the more I enjoyed my freedom. The pointing, staring and laughing happened because the people weren’t use to me, and in the beginning I wasn’t used to them either and although this was really hard at one point, it soon became easier to handle. Over time, I learned to love the smells, the sounds, and the hustle and bustle of a city that wasn’t London. I loved commuting on pedicabs and jeepneys (Google them-they are like old school American school buses, painted and decorated to the nines!) and started to get a real flavor for the country and more importantly, the people.
Never in my life have I received such hospitality, and such unusual reactions! As a Westerner, my co-workers at the orphanage saw me as a gateway to the south for their sons or daughters, and many thought that I may be able to find them a husband or wife back home! At the orphanage I was poked, squeezed and pinched and I soon realized that this was their expression of acceptance and interest. I learned that ‘joking only’ was part of the Filipino alphabet (nothing is to be taken seriously, that’s for sure) and that to be English automatically equated me with ‘cups of tea’ and Hermione Granger from Harry Potter (though I look absolutely nothing like her), and that at 1m 75 (about 5’9), I am actually head and shoulders above the rest of the population!
My days were spent working in the orphanage and providing caregivers with help and support. Outside of the orphanage, my life was filled with exploring the surrounding islands with fellow volunteers but it was also enriched by the love and support of my home stay family. I was truly welcomed in as one of them, and was introduced to their extended and extended-extended family throughout my five weeks in the country.
I remember at the end of my time there when I was complaining about going back home to London, the older brother of the family said to me, “You have to go back, Nicci. Your life isn’t here. This isn’t your reality.” As hard as it was to hear, he was right. I had the most incredible time traveling and volunteering, making new international friends and bonding with the most beautiful and giving family but my life was still back in London and I still hadn’t figured out who the ‘real’ me was.
Four years later, and I’m now working for the same volunteering abroad organization that I volunteered with – Kaya Responsible Travel, and I am heading out to live in the Philippines in November for a year. I won’t lie and say that heading off by oneself, especially as a lone female traveler, is easy, but it was certainly the most rewarding thing I have ever done in my life. I experienced so much on my own, and I saw and learned more than a regular ‘tourist,’ who just scratches a country’s surface.
My advice to fellow travelers seeking a challenge and a change is to just do it. Forget about where you’ve come from, and truly embrace the country that you are visiting. Get to know the local people, learn the language and embrace change. As soon as I returned to London, I started planning my next trip, and I’ve had itchy feet ever since. Now instead of bawling my eyes out when I get to the airport, I get that nervous, excited feeling in my stomach: of adventure and the unknown. We have been given the gift of living in ‘the era of easy travel’ so it would just be rude not to take up the offer!
Caffeinated Content
What makes us interested in international travel? For some it might be the lure of an exotic country, a recommendation from a friend or the need to flee the rain in the summer (as is often the case in the UK). For me, it was disillusionment with my degree and the need to get out of London, so I looked to travel and in particular to volunteering as a form of escapism. I had the idea that I could go somewhere and impart some of my knowledge, some of my time, and hopefully give back to someone along the way. I had the vision that I could the world, albeit in a very small way.
Altruistic? In part, but I also wanted to get out of my situation and this seemed like a way of feeling better about it, as well as making 11-month orphans in the Philippines smile. This trip was my first solo experience, and to say that I was nervous is an understatement! Arriving into Tacloban Airport though, opened my eyes to another world. The air was light and fresh and there were luscious green palm trees and banana plantations everywhere. I was stunned at the beauty but also confronted by the fact that the reality of life here was not as I knew it. The Filipino standard of living in this area is incredibly low and I finally realized that I was about to experience an extremely different way of life.
Throughout my time in the Philippines, I was pointed at, stared and laughed at (especially when I attempted to go for a run round the block, but I have since learned that Filipinos rarely walk long distances, let alone run). But the longer I was there, the more I enjoyed my freedom. The pointing, staring and laughing happened because the people weren’t use to me, and in the beginning I wasn’t used to them either and although this was really hard at one point, it soon became easier to handle. Over time, I learned to love the smells, the sounds, and the hustle and bustle of a city that wasn’t London. I loved commuting on pedicabs and jeepneys (Google them-they are like old school American school buses, painted and decorated to the nines!) and started to get a real flavor for the country and more importantly, the people.
Never in my life have I received such hospitality, and such unusual reactions! As a Westerner, my co-workers at the orphanage saw me as a gateway to the south for their sons or daughters, and many thought that I may be able to find them a husband or wife back home! At the orphanage I was poked, squeezed and pinched and I soon realized that this was their expression of acceptance and interest. I learned that ‘joking only’ was part of the Filipino alphabet (nothing is to be taken seriously, that’s for sure) and that to be English automatically equated me with ‘cups of tea’ and Hermione Granger from Harry Potter (though I look absolutely nothing like her), and that at 1m 75 (about 5’9), I am actually head and shoulders above the rest of the population!
My days were spent working in the orphanage and providing caregivers with help and support. Outside of the orphanage, my life was filled with exploring the surrounding islands with fellow volunteers but it was also enriched by the love and support of my home stay family. I was truly welcomed in as one of them, and was introduced to their extended and extended-extended family throughout my five weeks in the country.
I remember at the end of my time there when I was complaining about going back home to London, the older brother of the family said to me, “You have to go back, Nicci. Your life isn’t here. This isn’t your reality.” As hard as it was to hear, he was right. I had the most incredible time traveling and volunteering, making new international friends and bonding with the most beautiful and giving family but my life was still back in London and I still hadn’t figured out who the ‘real’ me was.
Four years later, and I’m now working for the same volunteering abroad organization that I volunteered with – Kaya Responsible Travel, and I am heading out to live in the Philippines in November for a year. I won’t lie and say that heading off by oneself, especially as a lone female traveler, is easy, but it was certainly the most rewarding thing I have ever done in my life. I experienced so much on my own, and I saw and learned more than a regular ‘tourist,’ who just scratches a country’s surface.
My advice to fellow travelers seeking a challenge and a change is to just do it. Forget about where you’ve come from, and truly embrace the country that you are visiting. Get to know the local people, learn the language and embrace change. As soon as I returned to London, I started planning my next trip, and I’ve had itchy feet ever since. Now instead of bawling my eyes out when I get to the airport, I get that nervous, excited feeling in my stomach: of adventure and the unknown. We have been given the gift of living in ‘the era of easy travel’ so it would just be rude not to take up the offer!
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How To Get A Cheap Airline Ticket to Philippines
December 15, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Jed Baguio asked:
If you are getting tired with the same old vacation destination where all you can see are structures, architectures, statues, and paintings, then it is about time to bring yourself to something different. It is about time to visit the exotic and tropical island of the Philippines.
The Philippines is culturally diverse with different languages and color. You suddenly begin to realize that there is more to the Philippines than it more than 7,000 glittering islands in the Pacific.
Taking you to the far eastern side of the world would bring you the one of the most enchanting places you would ever see with several islands waiting to be explored at minimal prices.
Craving for something different would mean booking your airline ticket at this tropical country that showcases one of the best beaches in the world and some of the best diving spots that one can ever find with its deep marine sanctuaries.
But why go to the Philippines if you can get the sun, beaches, and diving spots in the Caribbean or Miami perhaps? Aside from getting cheap airline tickets that will fly you to the best places in the Philippines, there are numerous domestic flights that could take you anywhere closer to the exotic and remote beaches of the islands with your cheap airline tickets to the Philippines.
Cheap airline tickets to the Philippines can be acquired through several online and offline travel agents, airline companies, and cheap airline ticket sites. Once you have arrived, in its mainland, you are greeted with the warmest welcome from the locals who are all to glad to see visitors from anywhere…CONTINUE [http://airline-ticket-guide.useful-tips.com/11/how-to-get-a-cheap-airline-ticket-to-philippines]
Caffeinated Content for WordPress
If you are getting tired with the same old vacation destination where all you can see are structures, architectures, statues, and paintings, then it is about time to bring yourself to something different. It is about time to visit the exotic and tropical island of the Philippines.
The Philippines is culturally diverse with different languages and color. You suddenly begin to realize that there is more to the Philippines than it more than 7,000 glittering islands in the Pacific.
Taking you to the far eastern side of the world would bring you the one of the most enchanting places you would ever see with several islands waiting to be explored at minimal prices.
Craving for something different would mean booking your airline ticket at this tropical country that showcases one of the best beaches in the world and some of the best diving spots that one can ever find with its deep marine sanctuaries.
But why go to the Philippines if you can get the sun, beaches, and diving spots in the Caribbean or Miami perhaps? Aside from getting cheap airline tickets that will fly you to the best places in the Philippines, there are numerous domestic flights that could take you anywhere closer to the exotic and remote beaches of the islands with your cheap airline tickets to the Philippines.
Cheap airline tickets to the Philippines can be acquired through several online and offline travel agents, airline companies, and cheap airline ticket sites. Once you have arrived, in its mainland, you are greeted with the warmest welcome from the locals who are all to glad to see visitors from anywhere…CONTINUE [http://airline-ticket-guide.useful-tips.com/11/how-to-get-a-cheap-airline-ticket-to-philippines]
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Old Churches in the Philippines
November 27, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
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.
Caffeinated Content
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.
Caffeinated Content
Vacation Rentals – Boracay Philippines
November 17, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
David K. Bradley asked:
If you are vacationing in the Philippines, make certain you allow at least a couple of days for a stay at Boracay. Speaking from experience, this is a beautiful spot with white sand beaches and plenty of activities to keep boredom at bay.
The island is a short flight from Manila, about 200 miles south of Manila. Flights are cheap and Boracay is well worth the cost and your time.
The island is small, a little more than 10 square kilometers, dog-bone shaped and just northwest of Panay Island in the Western Visayas. Although the island is small, there are more than 4 kilometers of beach. The two main beaches are White beach and Bulabog beach. White beach is on the western side of the island and Bulabog beach is on the eastern side.
Activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing and kite boarding. There is a world-class golf course too! The windsurfing is excellent here; in fact, Boracay Island is a venue on the Asian Windsurfing Tour. You can also hook-up with local tour guides for cave exploration and rides in native boats. Naturally, there is time to relax and sightsee too!
The place is definitely a tourist destination with all the negatives implied therein. Even though I’m a bit jaded, I truly had a great time there and left feeling that I had gotten my money’s worth. From me, that’s saying a lot!
There is ample lodging available here in Boracay, including any number of hotels, and lodges. If you want a vacation rental, they’re here too.
After only a few minutes of searching the Internet, I found a reasonably priced vacation rental. I’m not suggesting this is the one for you, but I liked it for the following reasons.
First, I’m frugal, not cheap, FRUGAL! This listing describes a two-story villa in the native style. I like this because I want to really experience the Filipino lifestyle. For this particular property, only a two night minimum stay is required. The cost is $70.00 (USD) per night, roughly 3200 pesos. The property faces White beach and has all the amenities. It sleeps three, has a full kitchen including all the utensils, queen bed and twin bed with all linens, washer, air-conditioning, refrigerator, cable/satellite TV, wireless internet, deck, balcony, beach view, mountain view and a BBQ grill. Ahhhh, heaven!
The longer you are willing to stay, the lower the nightly rate. It drops all the way to $50.00 (USD) for a fourteen night stay. If you want to stay a month, by all means, do so, for $945.00 per month! This is truly reasonable in a resort setting.
There are many properties to choose from. I don’t want you to feel this is the only one. I chose this one for location, price and amenities. Not necessarily in that order! No matter what lodgings you choose, I can all but guaranty you will enjoy Boracay. It offers friendly people, plenty to do and some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Caffeinated Content
If you are vacationing in the Philippines, make certain you allow at least a couple of days for a stay at Boracay. Speaking from experience, this is a beautiful spot with white sand beaches and plenty of activities to keep boredom at bay.
The island is a short flight from Manila, about 200 miles south of Manila. Flights are cheap and Boracay is well worth the cost and your time.
The island is small, a little more than 10 square kilometers, dog-bone shaped and just northwest of Panay Island in the Western Visayas. Although the island is small, there are more than 4 kilometers of beach. The two main beaches are White beach and Bulabog beach. White beach is on the western side of the island and Bulabog beach is on the eastern side.
Activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing and kite boarding. There is a world-class golf course too! The windsurfing is excellent here; in fact, Boracay Island is a venue on the Asian Windsurfing Tour. You can also hook-up with local tour guides for cave exploration and rides in native boats. Naturally, there is time to relax and sightsee too!
The place is definitely a tourist destination with all the negatives implied therein. Even though I’m a bit jaded, I truly had a great time there and left feeling that I had gotten my money’s worth. From me, that’s saying a lot!
There is ample lodging available here in Boracay, including any number of hotels, and lodges. If you want a vacation rental, they’re here too.
After only a few minutes of searching the Internet, I found a reasonably priced vacation rental. I’m not suggesting this is the one for you, but I liked it for the following reasons.
First, I’m frugal, not cheap, FRUGAL! This listing describes a two-story villa in the native style. I like this because I want to really experience the Filipino lifestyle. For this particular property, only a two night minimum stay is required. The cost is $70.00 (USD) per night, roughly 3200 pesos. The property faces White beach and has all the amenities. It sleeps three, has a full kitchen including all the utensils, queen bed and twin bed with all linens, washer, air-conditioning, refrigerator, cable/satellite TV, wireless internet, deck, balcony, beach view, mountain view and a BBQ grill. Ahhhh, heaven!
The longer you are willing to stay, the lower the nightly rate. It drops all the way to $50.00 (USD) for a fourteen night stay. If you want to stay a month, by all means, do so, for $945.00 per month! This is truly reasonable in a resort setting.
There are many properties to choose from. I don’t want you to feel this is the only one. I chose this one for location, price and amenities. Not necessarily in that order! No matter what lodgings you choose, I can all but guaranty you will enjoy Boracay. It offers friendly people, plenty to do and some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Caffeinated Content
Puerto Galera, Philippines – Beauty Beyond Imagining!
November 7, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Brett Jankowiak asked:
It was not until I had been given my first San Miguel that I realised that this place was hot, humid and sticky. My first San Mig didn’t even touch the sides. I was back in Manila sitting at the bar in the hotel, after dropping off my bag and putting all my important documents in the safety deposit box. I took some time to reflect on my first visit to this incredibly diverse country.
When you discuss holiday destinations with people, the better trodden paths are the ones most frequented, not many people I know have traveled to the Philippines. Let me tell you, if you enjoy tropical islands with white powdery sand merging into the jungle on one side and then disappearing into the turquoise blue water on the other, then this is the place for you! After all there are 7,107 islands in the Philippines, take your pick!
The Philippines is the third largest English speaking country in the world, which makes getting around so much easier. Tourism has not really taken off like in neighboring Asian countries, like Thailand and Malaysia and the infrastructure is not quite there, which in a way makes it all the more exciting because your holiday will become an adventure, it can drag you down at times but once you arrive at your final destination the trip getting there will be long forgotten.
My journey took me to the resort town of Puerto Galera on the island of Mindoro. Puerto Galera is the port where Spanish Galleons use to take refuge from the might of the typhoons. Letting your imagination wonder a little as you glance around the port, you can almost see the Spanish Galleons swinging on their anchors.
Puerto Galera has recently won the 2005 Most Beautiful Bay in the World Award. It is easy to see why.
Getting to Puerto Galera
From Manila you need to take a bus to Batangas which takes approximately three hours, depending on the time of day and which day it is, the longest it has taken me was seven hours. From Batangas which is south of the Philippine capital of Manila you can catch a ferry across to Puerto Galera which is about an hour to an hour and half. The trip to Batangas is pretty uneventful, the real beauty starts when you get on the ferry. The water is a deep cobalt blue, if you are lucky you may even see dolphins, turtles and flying fish.
The Beaches
The majority of the resorts are centered around the beaches of Sabang, Small La Laguna and Big la Laguna. Sabang is where most of the action is, discos, pubs, restaurants and lots of accommodation. The next beach along is Small La Laguna which has more accommodation and the beach is quite nice. Make sure you stop off at the Point Bar which separates Sabang from Small La Laguna Beach the view is outstanding. Moving further away from Sabang you come to, in my opinion, the pick of the beaches, Big La Laguna Beach. The beach here is beautiful and it a lot quieter than Sabang, with some superior accommodation.
What to do in Puerto Galera?
The main focus here is the water. Scuba diving and snorkeling are the number one pursuits. The scuba diving is first class. There is no swell so swimming is safe, as are other water activities, sailing, windsurfing and kayaking.
Do try and get up to Ponderosa Golf Club for some jungle golf, lots of fun. Trekking is also available and do combine the trek to visit a Mangyan Village. Or you can just curl up on the beach with a good book!
Back to Reality
Pondering over my icy cold San Miguel, my first two week stay in these enchanted islands left me relaxed and ready to get back into the rat race of modern society. My first trip seemed like years ago, but I have visited and lived in this wonderful country on and off for a decade.
Caffeinated Content – Members-Only Content for WordPress
It was not until I had been given my first San Miguel that I realised that this place was hot, humid and sticky. My first San Mig didn’t even touch the sides. I was back in Manila sitting at the bar in the hotel, after dropping off my bag and putting all my important documents in the safety deposit box. I took some time to reflect on my first visit to this incredibly diverse country.
When you discuss holiday destinations with people, the better trodden paths are the ones most frequented, not many people I know have traveled to the Philippines. Let me tell you, if you enjoy tropical islands with white powdery sand merging into the jungle on one side and then disappearing into the turquoise blue water on the other, then this is the place for you! After all there are 7,107 islands in the Philippines, take your pick!
The Philippines is the third largest English speaking country in the world, which makes getting around so much easier. Tourism has not really taken off like in neighboring Asian countries, like Thailand and Malaysia and the infrastructure is not quite there, which in a way makes it all the more exciting because your holiday will become an adventure, it can drag you down at times but once you arrive at your final destination the trip getting there will be long forgotten.
My journey took me to the resort town of Puerto Galera on the island of Mindoro. Puerto Galera is the port where Spanish Galleons use to take refuge from the might of the typhoons. Letting your imagination wonder a little as you glance around the port, you can almost see the Spanish Galleons swinging on their anchors.
Puerto Galera has recently won the 2005 Most Beautiful Bay in the World Award. It is easy to see why.
Getting to Puerto Galera
From Manila you need to take a bus to Batangas which takes approximately three hours, depending on the time of day and which day it is, the longest it has taken me was seven hours. From Batangas which is south of the Philippine capital of Manila you can catch a ferry across to Puerto Galera which is about an hour to an hour and half. The trip to Batangas is pretty uneventful, the real beauty starts when you get on the ferry. The water is a deep cobalt blue, if you are lucky you may even see dolphins, turtles and flying fish.
The Beaches
The majority of the resorts are centered around the beaches of Sabang, Small La Laguna and Big la Laguna. Sabang is where most of the action is, discos, pubs, restaurants and lots of accommodation. The next beach along is Small La Laguna which has more accommodation and the beach is quite nice. Make sure you stop off at the Point Bar which separates Sabang from Small La Laguna Beach the view is outstanding. Moving further away from Sabang you come to, in my opinion, the pick of the beaches, Big La Laguna Beach. The beach here is beautiful and it a lot quieter than Sabang, with some superior accommodation.
What to do in Puerto Galera?
The main focus here is the water. Scuba diving and snorkeling are the number one pursuits. The scuba diving is first class. There is no swell so swimming is safe, as are other water activities, sailing, windsurfing and kayaking.
Do try and get up to Ponderosa Golf Club for some jungle golf, lots of fun. Trekking is also available and do combine the trek to visit a Mangyan Village. Or you can just curl up on the beach with a good book!
Back to Reality
Pondering over my icy cold San Miguel, my first two week stay in these enchanted islands left me relaxed and ready to get back into the rat race of modern society. My first trip seemed like years ago, but I have visited and lived in this wonderful country on and off for a decade.
Caffeinated Content – Members-Only Content for WordPress
Ten Quick Tips For Philippines Travelers
November 6, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Jason A. Martin asked:
Before you rush out that door to enjoy your vacation in the Philippines, I have ten quick tips you should know. The Philippines is a great place to vacation, but plan poorly and your dream can quickly turn into a nightmare. Preparation is the key to any successful vacation.
Ten Quick Tips:
1. The temperature of the Philippines stays warm year-round. The range is from 78F to 90F.
2. If you have any questions about your visit, contact the Department of Tourism.
3. While the Philippines is one country, there are many regions–each with its own culture. Each culture has its own spin on food.
4. Don’t be a miser. When services are provided, don’t forget to tip. 10% is a common tip amount.
5. The Philippines’ monetary unsit is the peso (PhP). Get some of these and travel around with them. It makes dealing with local commerce much easier.
6. As mentioned in point #3, the country has different regions. There are 16 of them to be exact. Take the time to know the difference and you might find locals warming up to you.
7. If you want to see traditional festivals, celebrations and events then you need to go during the summer. This is the best time to see these attractions.
8. There are many ways to get around the Philippines including jeepneys, tricycles, pedicabs, and air-conditioned taxis. Explore and enjoy yourself.
9. Get to know some common Tagalog phrases. Many in the Philippines speak English, but they light up when someone is trying to speak their language.
10. Have fun, be nice and take lots of pictures. Don’t be shy about mixing with the locals. You might find some hidden gems that way.
There you have it; 10 great tips for traveling to the Philippines. All that’s left is for you to go and enjoy yourself.
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Before you rush out that door to enjoy your vacation in the Philippines, I have ten quick tips you should know. The Philippines is a great place to vacation, but plan poorly and your dream can quickly turn into a nightmare. Preparation is the key to any successful vacation.
Ten Quick Tips:
1. The temperature of the Philippines stays warm year-round. The range is from 78F to 90F.
2. If you have any questions about your visit, contact the Department of Tourism.
3. While the Philippines is one country, there are many regions–each with its own culture. Each culture has its own spin on food.
4. Don’t be a miser. When services are provided, don’t forget to tip. 10% is a common tip amount.
5. The Philippines’ monetary unsit is the peso (PhP). Get some of these and travel around with them. It makes dealing with local commerce much easier.
6. As mentioned in point #3, the country has different regions. There are 16 of them to be exact. Take the time to know the difference and you might find locals warming up to you.
7. If you want to see traditional festivals, celebrations and events then you need to go during the summer. This is the best time to see these attractions.
8. There are many ways to get around the Philippines including jeepneys, tricycles, pedicabs, and air-conditioned taxis. Explore and enjoy yourself.
9. Get to know some common Tagalog phrases. Many in the Philippines speak English, but they light up when someone is trying to speak their language.
10. Have fun, be nice and take lots of pictures. Don’t be shy about mixing with the locals. You might find some hidden gems that way.
There you have it; 10 great tips for traveling to the Philippines. All that’s left is for you to go and enjoy yourself.
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Travel Philippines – Viva La Vigan
November 2, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Allan Merin asked:
If you’re idea of a relaxing vacation is exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, then visiting Vigan is the right place for you. This fifth-class city in the northern region allows tourists to travel back in time with its unique antiquity and idyllic atmosphere. Dubbed as “Heritage City of the North,” Vigan is described by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as the “best preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia.”
Vigan, which is roughly a nine-hour bus ride from Manila, is being groomed as the primary tourism destination in northern Philippines. To attract more local and foreign visitors, the government has been launching promotional activities such as various festivals and events over the past years. Hotels and vacation houses were also built in the city as part of projects aimed at improving the local hospitality industry.
Tourists will never get bored in Vigan. There are lots of tourist attractions to choose from in the city aside from the dozens of proudly standing ancestral houses. Here are some of them.
Calle Crisologo
Vigan is best known for Calle Crisologo, a 500-meter long street made from cobblestone. Its design is a mixture of 18th century Filipino and Spanish architecture. Feel the thrill of living during the Spanish era by riding a kalesa, or a horse-driven carriage. Calle Crisologo, where a number of movies and television shows depicting the Spanish times were shot, is also home to hotels, pension houses, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
Baluarte
Another must-visit place in Vigan is Baluarte. Covering an area of 80 hectares, this zoological park provides shelter to various animal species such as pythons, tigers, snakes, birds, ponies, and many more. Baluarte, which is owned by Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson, also has a garden where different butterfly species are roaming around freely. Cameras are allowed inside Baluarte. And the best thing is admission is free.
St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral
St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral is an imposing structure situated at the heart of Vigan. Built by the Augustinians between 1790 and 1800, the church is famous for its unique “Earthquake Baroque” architecture. The cathedral, which is the site of various Catholic activities in Vigan, is frequented by pilgrims across the Philippines.
Crisologo Museum
If you are fond of various memorabilia, then you must enter the Crisologo Museum. This two-storey building located at the end of the Crisologo Street houses history exhibits, antique furniture, and literary collection. The car in which former Gov. Carmeling Crisologo was ambushed in 1961 is also displayed at the museum.
Longanisa Festival
One of the much-awaited events in Vigan is the Longanisa Festival. This annual event seeks to promote the local longanisa (native sausage) industry. The festival, which is celebrated on the third week of January, features street dancing, trade and food fairs, and various cultural exhibits. Longanisa is often served with fried rice and egg.
Apatot Beach
Vigan also has its share of fine beaches. One of them is Apatot Beach, a popular recreation site of local residents. This body of water is rich in historic past. At the end of World War II, the United States used Apatot Beach to unload armaments for American soldiers serving in the area.
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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If you’re idea of a relaxing vacation is exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, then visiting Vigan is the right place for you. This fifth-class city in the northern region allows tourists to travel back in time with its unique antiquity and idyllic atmosphere. Dubbed as “Heritage City of the North,” Vigan is described by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as the “best preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia.”
Vigan, which is roughly a nine-hour bus ride from Manila, is being groomed as the primary tourism destination in northern Philippines. To attract more local and foreign visitors, the government has been launching promotional activities such as various festivals and events over the past years. Hotels and vacation houses were also built in the city as part of projects aimed at improving the local hospitality industry.
Tourists will never get bored in Vigan. There are lots of tourist attractions to choose from in the city aside from the dozens of proudly standing ancestral houses. Here are some of them.
Calle Crisologo
Vigan is best known for Calle Crisologo, a 500-meter long street made from cobblestone. Its design is a mixture of 18th century Filipino and Spanish architecture. Feel the thrill of living during the Spanish era by riding a kalesa, or a horse-driven carriage. Calle Crisologo, where a number of movies and television shows depicting the Spanish times were shot, is also home to hotels, pension houses, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
Baluarte
Another must-visit place in Vigan is Baluarte. Covering an area of 80 hectares, this zoological park provides shelter to various animal species such as pythons, tigers, snakes, birds, ponies, and many more. Baluarte, which is owned by Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson, also has a garden where different butterfly species are roaming around freely. Cameras are allowed inside Baluarte. And the best thing is admission is free.
St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral
St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral is an imposing structure situated at the heart of Vigan. Built by the Augustinians between 1790 and 1800, the church is famous for its unique “Earthquake Baroque” architecture. The cathedral, which is the site of various Catholic activities in Vigan, is frequented by pilgrims across the Philippines.
Crisologo Museum
If you are fond of various memorabilia, then you must enter the Crisologo Museum. This two-storey building located at the end of the Crisologo Street houses history exhibits, antique furniture, and literary collection. The car in which former Gov. Carmeling Crisologo was ambushed in 1961 is also displayed at the museum.
Longanisa Festival
One of the much-awaited events in Vigan is the Longanisa Festival. This annual event seeks to promote the local longanisa (native sausage) industry. The festival, which is celebrated on the third week of January, features street dancing, trade and food fairs, and various cultural exhibits. Longanisa is often served with fried rice and egg.
Apatot Beach
Vigan also has its share of fine beaches. One of them is Apatot Beach, a popular recreation site of local residents. This body of water is rich in historic past. At the end of World War II, the United States used Apatot Beach to unload armaments for American soldiers serving in the area.
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.
Caffeinated Content – Members-Only Content for WordPress
A Sweet Davao!
October 14, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Jose Abada asked:
Are you planning to visit the Pearl of the Orient, the Philippines and yet you do not have any idea on where to go? Are you sick and tired of seeing frowning people in the busy streets of the usual city setting? Well, I will bet that Davao City is the best place for you!
Sweet fruits, great beaches, hospitable people – these are the words that best describe one of the most magnificent place in the Philippines, Davao City!
This beautiful city is one of the top tourist spot that the Philippines is proud of having. This place is bestowed with wonderful lands and waters that lures and tempts many tourists from and outside the Philippines.
Aside from that, the city has a wonderful history that adds in its magnificence! Originally, the term Davao means fire. It is from the word “daba-daba.” Interesting festivals marked the place. One of the most anticipated and well attended festivals in this city is the well known Dinagyang Festival. Aside from that, many other rituals are done in this place that highlights the gracious past and culture of the people.
Davao City is bestowed by different tourist attractions that really lure many visitors from and even outside the Philippines.
Among the historical tourist attraction, the Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague is one of the must see. It is located in Matina, Davao City. This is an open air chapel that features the replica of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague and Our Lady of Fatima. Aside from the relics, the wonderful panoramic view of the coconut plantation and other fruit bearing trees adds in the magnificence of the city.
About 9 to 15 kilometers from the city cradles a shrine for the veterans of war – the Japanese Peace Memorial Shrine/ Cemetery. Even though that there is the term Japanese in the name, the cemetery is open to all sorts of races.
Your trip to this city will not be complete if you will never get the chance to see and know the people of the place. Go and visit Davao Museum so you will surely have the chance to witness the culture and traditions of the city and of course the people.
Davao City is also known for the beautiful hand woven cloth and actually you can have a glance on this at the T’Boli Weaving Center. The T’Boli Weaving Center is located at the Insular Hotel Grounds, Insular Hotel, Lanang, Davao City. Your visit in the said place will be highlighted by the demonstration of the tribal women of South Cotabato of the traditional craftsmanship and art of the T’Boli Tribe. See how they weave and turn the native abaca into fibers. Witness how the strips turned into canvass of artistry by designing figures with the intricate of patterns.
Davao is not just a place gifted with great people but also it is gifted with splendid water. You can spend your time around the different beaches, which offer best summer activities. Dive and snorkel around its clear waters! One of the must see is the Muslim Fishing Village located at San Jose, Samal Island. In the said place, children can dive overboard while the adults will be busy side seeing over the magnificent view from the native huts built over the waters.
Last but not the least, your stay at the city will not be totally complete without bringing home the ever delicious durian fruit.
Davao City is filled with beautiful sceneries and tourist attractions and of course with beautiful people with the heart of gold! Smiles will surely be a souvenir for any visitor or tourist who will spend time in beautiful Davao!
travel philippines
Are you planning to visit the Pearl of the Orient, the Philippines and yet you do not have any idea on where to go? Are you sick and tired of seeing frowning people in the busy streets of the usual city setting? Well, I will bet that Davao City is the best place for you!
Sweet fruits, great beaches, hospitable people – these are the words that best describe one of the most magnificent place in the Philippines, Davao City!
This beautiful city is one of the top tourist spot that the Philippines is proud of having. This place is bestowed with wonderful lands and waters that lures and tempts many tourists from and outside the Philippines.
Aside from that, the city has a wonderful history that adds in its magnificence! Originally, the term Davao means fire. It is from the word “daba-daba.” Interesting festivals marked the place. One of the most anticipated and well attended festivals in this city is the well known Dinagyang Festival. Aside from that, many other rituals are done in this place that highlights the gracious past and culture of the people.
Davao City is bestowed by different tourist attractions that really lure many visitors from and even outside the Philippines.
Among the historical tourist attraction, the Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague is one of the must see. It is located in Matina, Davao City. This is an open air chapel that features the replica of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague and Our Lady of Fatima. Aside from the relics, the wonderful panoramic view of the coconut plantation and other fruit bearing trees adds in the magnificence of the city.
About 9 to 15 kilometers from the city cradles a shrine for the veterans of war – the Japanese Peace Memorial Shrine/ Cemetery. Even though that there is the term Japanese in the name, the cemetery is open to all sorts of races.
Your trip to this city will not be complete if you will never get the chance to see and know the people of the place. Go and visit Davao Museum so you will surely have the chance to witness the culture and traditions of the city and of course the people.
Davao City is also known for the beautiful hand woven cloth and actually you can have a glance on this at the T’Boli Weaving Center. The T’Boli Weaving Center is located at the Insular Hotel Grounds, Insular Hotel, Lanang, Davao City. Your visit in the said place will be highlighted by the demonstration of the tribal women of South Cotabato of the traditional craftsmanship and art of the T’Boli Tribe. See how they weave and turn the native abaca into fibers. Witness how the strips turned into canvass of artistry by designing figures with the intricate of patterns.
Davao is not just a place gifted with great people but also it is gifted with splendid water. You can spend your time around the different beaches, which offer best summer activities. Dive and snorkel around its clear waters! One of the must see is the Muslim Fishing Village located at San Jose, Samal Island. In the said place, children can dive overboard while the adults will be busy side seeing over the magnificent view from the native huts built over the waters.
Last but not the least, your stay at the city will not be totally complete without bringing home the ever delicious durian fruit.
Davao City is filled with beautiful sceneries and tourist attractions and of course with beautiful people with the heart of gold! Smiles will surely be a souvenir for any visitor or tourist who will spend time in beautiful Davao!
travel philippines
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.
Caffeinated Content
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.
Caffeinated Content
Best Time to Visit Philippines
September 24, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Sharona Bancs asked:
Whether you are a Filipino working abroad or a foreigner who wants to know the best time to visit Philippines, you’ll be glad to know that every day is the best time to visit the Philippines.?This Southeast Asian country is beautiful all year round.
?It is the best time to visit the Philippines during Christmas holidays.?Christmas time in the country starts as early as September and lasts until the first week of January.?When you are driving or commuting in the city or in countryside during the night, you’ll see beautiful rows of Christmas lanterns hanging out of the houses and establishments.????
?During early dawn, you will see people all dressed up for Church.?Yes, this predominantly Catholic country has a Christmas tradition of 9 masses during 4 o’clock in the morning as a way to celebrate Christmas.?It starts 9 days before Christmas.
?It is the best time to visit the Philippines during summertime also.?Summer in the Philippines is from the months of March to May.?The main attraction of the Philippines is its world-famous beaches:?Boracay, Subic Bay, Bohol, Cebu and Batangas and Puerto Galera.?
?Boracay which is located Visayas Island south of Manila is visited of millions of foreigners every year.?The beaches at Bohol, Cebu and Batangas are also frequented by foreigner. ?Except for the rainy months of June and July, you can visit Philippines beaches because the country has a tropical weather all year round.?
?What is the best time to visit Philippines [http://www.philippinesguestbook.com/]??All year round is the best time to visit this country.?When you experience the place and the gentle and hospitable people, you’ll always return year after year.? There are so many beautiful beach destinations in the countryside.? During Christmas, the celebration and decors and tradition are feast for the heart and eyes.
travel philippines
Whether you are a Filipino working abroad or a foreigner who wants to know the best time to visit Philippines, you’ll be glad to know that every day is the best time to visit the Philippines.?This Southeast Asian country is beautiful all year round.
?It is the best time to visit the Philippines during Christmas holidays.?Christmas time in the country starts as early as September and lasts until the first week of January.?When you are driving or commuting in the city or in countryside during the night, you’ll see beautiful rows of Christmas lanterns hanging out of the houses and establishments.????
?During early dawn, you will see people all dressed up for Church.?Yes, this predominantly Catholic country has a Christmas tradition of 9 masses during 4 o’clock in the morning as a way to celebrate Christmas.?It starts 9 days before Christmas.
?It is the best time to visit the Philippines during summertime also.?Summer in the Philippines is from the months of March to May.?The main attraction of the Philippines is its world-famous beaches:?Boracay, Subic Bay, Bohol, Cebu and Batangas and Puerto Galera.?
?Boracay which is located Visayas Island south of Manila is visited of millions of foreigners every year.?The beaches at Bohol, Cebu and Batangas are also frequented by foreigner. ?Except for the rainy months of June and July, you can visit Philippines beaches because the country has a tropical weather all year round.?
?What is the best time to visit Philippines [http://www.philippinesguestbook.com/]??All year round is the best time to visit this country.?When you experience the place and the gentle and hospitable people, you’ll always return year after year.? There are so many beautiful beach destinations in the countryside.? During Christmas, the celebration and decors and tradition are feast for the heart and eyes.
travel philippines
