The Philippines have pleasant weather throughout every season. The people who come here enjoy their outings and they are enthralled from the organic beauty on this region.
6/30/11
8 Best Kept Secret Island Paradises
You want to plan that vacation to that glorious tropical island but you've only heard of the tourist traps like Nassau, Bahamas or Montego Bay, Jamaica. You want a place without fifteen-story hotels, screaming crowds, and a thousand souvenir shops. You want a place where you can finally relax and recuperate from the smash and grab daily grind. Well, worry no longer. Below you will find eight of the most peaceful paradises in the world. But don't wait a decade to choose one. By then, they may no longer be some of the best secret travel destinations.1. Isla de Vieques, Puerto Rico: Because this little gem was controlled by the U.S. Navy until 2003, it lacks the crowds, tourist traps, tall buildings, and traffic of commercialized vacation spots. This is truly an unspoiled island with lush, rolling hills, tranquil lanes, and a pristine beach with bioluminescent waters. At night, under glittering stars, the surf truly lights up with glowing living organisms. It's like an ethereal wonderland. Besides the stunning beauty, the island offers view of the final Spanish fort built in the Americas; it offers snorkeling, hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding on sleek horses. The residents are warm and personable and you will likely make a few friends before you leave. If you want a little more excitement for a few days, ferry the six miles to San Juan and perhaps stay at the fabulous La Concha Resort with multi-level, infinity pools and five restaurants to fit your every mood and taste.2. Secret Beach, Kauai: Nestled at the base of a sheer cliff just north of Kilaua, it's hard to find anything about this hideaway to criticize. Cottages nestled on the mountainsides offer a panoramic view. The cottages are furnished with quaint furniture, Jacuzzi, kitchen utensils, appliances, Kauai guidebooks, beach supplies, and even laundry detergent. Enjoy at least a few meals gazing out from your own deck. The beach is private and easy to walk to. Snorkel on Tunnels Reef, have lunch at the Tropical Taco, view the Waimea Canyon (Grand Canyon of the Pacific) and Wailus and Opaeka Falls. Kayak peacefully on the Lanalei River, buy something sweet from the Kilauea Bakery and buy fresh seafood from the fish market across from the King Lung shops. Grill the fish yourself at your cottage for a meal you'll never forget. This is a Hawaii worlds away from the crazy commercized chaos of Waikiki.3. Waykaya Club and Spa, Fiji: This is a private 2,200-acre retreat belonging to Fiji's 333 islands, featuring serene lagoons, majestic cliffs, gorgeous beaches, and encircled by a virgin coral reef. Start off with the stunning orientation walk to begin tasting the wild natural beauty and charm. You will see tropical forests, spectacular lookout points, pristine beaches, and a wildlife sanctuary teaming with feral horses, pigs, deer, and goat. At the Club and Spa you will find a 9-hole golf course, lighted tennis courts, and equipment for a quick game of croquet. The Club will pack a gourmet picnic lunch for you take anywhere your heart leads you. Play a game of billiards or do a vigorous workout followed by a luxurious massage. Tour the organic gardens, the Fijian wood carvers, the cooking demonstrations, or the exotic bird watching. Play beach volleyball, or sit back and enjoy a native dance pageant or Kava ceremony. Then on Sunday, if you like, attend the Village Church to hear the Fiji choir and enjoy the 30-minute service. You will never get bored at the Waykaya Club.4. Jellyfish Lake, Palau: Palau is a wonderland located about 500 miles from the Philippines. The limestone islands in this area were formed by many thousands of year of coral accretion slowly lifting out of the sea. The one jellyfish lake open to the public is on the uninhabited island of Macharchar. Somehow along the way, the jellyfish have lost their sting, so divers or snorkelers can swim safely among the 1.2 million translucent, orange orbs ranging in size from marble- to volley ball-sized. As they pulsate through the azure waters, they bump harmlessly against snorkelers and drift on. It is doubtful that you will be able to tear yourself away from the jellyfish, but, if so, the sea kayaking among the Rock Islands is superb, and there are fascinating World War II relics to be found on the island of Peleliu. For breathtaking view and nice accommodations, try Koror's Cliffside Hotel.5. Santorini, Greece: This island is actually a live volcano, but it isn't expected to belch again in our lifetime. The volcanic yield has resulted in black sand beaches and soil that grows some of the best wine grapes in existence. Because of the volcanic soil Santorini also grows some of the sweetest tomatoes in the world. You must sample the fried tomato balls (Keftadas). You may never see a more awe-inspiring site as when you gaze from the rim of the volcano and watch tiny boats cross the royal blue waters. If you can tear yourself away from that, you must visit the nearby town of Oia, with its stunning sunsets. Two terrific restaurants to visit are the Saltsa and the Nyhteri. Perhaps you can find lodging among the villages overlooking the submerged volcano. And two hotels that can be recommended are the Villa Kalimera and the Volcano View Villas.6. The Caves Resort, Negril, Jamaica: The resort sits atop honeycomb, limestone cliffs overlooking the sea. It features eleven exclusive Cliffside accommodations, two main dining gazebos, and private cave dining. If you ever get tired of the view and the pampering, you can watch dolphins, jet ski, go horseback riding, or enjoy the sauna, Jacuzzi, or the saltwater swimming pools. The rooms of the resort overflow with ambience: music for whatever your vibe, candles and scented oils, the most comfortable beds, and gracious hospitality. Rick's Café is one of the greatest places to eat. Sheddy Williams has been the head chef for 15 years. Enjoy the rich Jamaican coffee, the fresh fruit plate, mango daiquiris and a full course dinner. It is guaranteed that no matter how frayed your nerves when you arrived, you will leave the Caves refreshed.7. Christ Church, Barbados: Why would you visit the Barbados? Well, for one thing, the residents love tourists and the crime rate is almost non-existent. You can cruise on a catamaran, swim with sea turtles, and watch the antics of hilarious green monkeys. The surf is consistently perfect for surfing, kite surfing, or windsurfing. You can watch a cricket game or play on a world class golf course. You can stroll the plantations, lush gardens or the rum distilleries. Then there are wonderful restaurants such as Oistin's Fish Fry, the Restaurant at the South Sea, and Just Grillin'. You will love it.8. Long Island, Bahamas: We're not pushing Long Island alone. It is just an example of the Bahamian islands that are still beautiful, serene, and unspoiled by raucous crowds and unabashed commercialism. A massive spine of ancient reef gives the 80-mile island two faces: the sheer cliffs and caves of the east coast and the soft, sandy, mangrove-lined lee side which washes into the Bahamas Bank. Long Island does have numerous shallow and deep scuba diving sites. But it is best known for Dean's Blue Hole, a vast abyss that tunnels down about 600 feet. Travel writers grow bored and jaded after seeing hundreds of beautiful island sites. However, a writer for Trip Atlas raved, "Long Island is a true hidden gem---the real paradise island of the Bahamas!" This island is also home to Columbus Point, towering memorial to Christopher Columbus, perched high atop a hill at the island's northernmost tip. You will find everything in this place: sloping hills, vast beaches, high cliffs, gardens, caves, old plantation ruins, quaint villages, and pink sand with intricate seashells.I feel a little sorry for you. You're going to have to choose between all these incredible places and that's the hardest part!
4 Great Punta Cana All Inclusive Resorts!
Punta Cana All-inclusive Resort hotelsRight now there are several Punta Cana all-inclusive lodges to pick! This short article aspires to offer anyone an index of a lot of the best all-inclusive resorts which are available to ensure that you may choose what place you'd rather stay.1) Paradisus Palma Real All Inclusive ResortAmong the nicest hotels in all of Punta Cana, the Paradisus Palma Real will not let you down! This spectacular destination is situated just 25 minutes away from Punta Cana International Airport. With 496 suites, five eateries, a couple of buffets, and nine pubs, the Paradisus strives to deliver a vast choice of activities that its guests might have without ever departing from the holiday resort. This holiday resort also boasts an unbelievable primary swimming pool with exceptional views and 7 whirlpools all around this resort. With respect to leisure, the Paradisus Palma Real has a casino, five tennis courts, water sports, and optional horseback riding lessons or golf bundles. This is without a doubt one destination you will not like to overlook!2) Be Live Grand Punta CanaThe Be Live Grand Punta Cana all-inclusive hotel is an additional awesome destination to stay on your excursion to the Dominican Republic. This hotel is found only 20 minutes outside of the airport and is merely 10 mins away from one of the most essential convention centers through the Caribbean! This five-star hotel is located close to Cabeza de Toro Beach, therefore water activities really are a major aspect of the accommodation. The Be Live Grand even boasts a casino, spa, and golf facilities.3) Excellence Punta CanaThe Excellence Punta Cana resort is an additional lovely property with lots of amazing rooms. While this place is a touch farther outside of the airport (35 miles), this adult-only, all-suite escape warrants the trip for your romantic getaway! With two substantial pools, eight places to eat, and ten pubs, the Excellence resort wants to make you feel at home! This resort furthermore has a high quality spa and state-of-the-art gym. This all-inclusive destination also offers a wide selection of activities which are sure to help keep you busy, should you choose to participate!4) Iberostar Grand Hotel BavaroThe Iberostar Grand Hotel Bavaro is an additional deluxe hotel for adults-only. This amazing destination boasts all-inclusive honeymoon, getaway, and wedding packages to let you relax and become worry-free during your vacation to Punta Cana. This hotel can be found on Bavaro Beach which is known for its natural beauty and white sand. With 274 bedrooms, 5 restaurants, 5 pubs, and 2 swimming pools, this resort offers you all the things you will need without all the traffic you often find at some other resort hotels. The Iberostar Grand Hotel Bavaro absolutely tries to think of everything so that you can enjoy your stay at one of the most magnificent Punta Cana all-inclusive vacation resorts!
3 Most Romantic Hotels in the Philippinesort
Are you looking for a place where you and your partner can spend some intimate time alone? Well, these 3 romantic hotels in the Philippines are the perfect destination for you and your special someone. They offer white beach resorts, luscious forests, and green mountains. These hotels cater to your needs and render high quality of service, and are committed to meeting your 5-star needs. These hotels also offer you great amenities such as sumptuous meals, relaxing spa treatments, quality room service, etc.On top of the list is the Amanpulo Hotel, a private island resort on Pamalican Island in Palawan. To visit the resort take a charter flight. You can have a sense of privacy throughout your stay. The rooms have a good view of the velvet white sand beach and crystal waters. Its cozy aura is endearingly inviting. The location of the hotel is perfect for couples who would like to take a long walk on the beach, private conversation with a bonfire keeping them warm, or laying down on a hammock with the breeze of fresh air. Additionally, a whirlpool sauna, massage facilities, spa and outdoor swimming pool, are also available at the hotel.The second one would be the Manila Peninsula Hotel. It is located at the heart of Makati. Aside from being the sought after venue for national or international business conventions, Manila Peninsula is also the ideal hotel for the locals and the foreigners. This is somehow the most wanted hotel destination for it is technically 20 minutes away from NAIA - Ninoy Aquino International Airport. If you think that you and your partner can't spend quiet time alone in the city, you're definitely wrong. Manila Peninsula, though located on the Philippines' premiere business area, can provide couples with just the right amount of privacy and intimacy. The hotel offers a view most likely similar to that of New York's city lights. The rooms are perfectly decorated and arranged and will surely work well with a cozy dinner and a bottle of champagne.Last but surely not the least is the Taal Vista Hotel in Tagaytay. If you want to get away from the city's deafening noise, you have come to the right place. The location does not just offer a cool breeze of air but also a full view of the world's smallest volcano, the Taal Volcano. The city of Tagaytay is just an hour or two drive from the city. The hotel offers 261 rooms that each can give couples not just the feeling of warmth but also of sensibility. Not only that, couples may spend their time near the fireplace or cast some love notes on the piano.
6/28/11
The Philippines as a Call Center Hub in the World
Undoubtedly, the Philippines being in the Third World country is sharing a big slice in the success of the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry. The outsourced voiced-based (or call center) remain strong in generating millions of revenue for the country over the past years.
And speaking of it, India was the center of the growth in outsourcing but the Philippines is lobbying seriously to gain the paradigm shift in the outsourcing. When it was introduced in the country, it became emerging industry offering systematic technology and never-ending opportunity to the workers. The BPO in the Philippines is attributed in the offshore market raking a total of $25.6 billion in 2006, landing third between India and China. On the other hand, the overall offshore IT market is estimated at $36 billion and growing. The revenue increased to 62% comparing in 2004 with posted income of over $1.3 billion in the same year. It is estimated that 200,000 talented Filipinos are working in 120 BPO facilities nationwide in 2006. It was forecasted by the national government and outsourcing players to earn US$11 billion by employing 900,000 people by the year 2010.
The growth in the Philippine call centers is fueled because of the high-end quality contact centers offering different services such as Web design, medical transcription, software development, legal services, animation, and other shared services. The call centers have the largest portion sector because of the fluency in the English language. In maintaining the industry, the National Government continues to offer fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to attract locators to outsource their business in the country. The details of this contract is written under the 2006 Investment Priorities Plan, which was formulated by the Board of Investments (BOI), as the lead agency in promoting investments, focused on the sectors identified in the Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP) 2004-2010 (PBOI 2006).
Today, large outsourcing players started to expand their operation in the provinces giving the people from the province to work in the call center by not staying in Manila anymore. The local government units in the Philippines promote their respective cities to the foreign investors that it's viable to put up centers in their area not only in the mainland city. BPO centers are found in the cities of Lipa, Baguio, Dagupan in Luzon; the cities of Cebu, Bacolod, Dumaguete, Iloilo in Visayas region; and the cities of Davao, Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao.
The Philippines is among of the offshore "centers of excellence" in Asia Pacific alongside its fellow Asian countries which are India and China. The country is recognized to be good in the inbound and outbound call centers which satisfy the customers worldwide because of its strong English speaking people. It was reported that the Asia Pacific regions topped the as the best destination for outsourcing and placed second in terms of the BPO market solutions.
It cannot be denied that studies spearheaded by private sectors classified the Philippines as the center of excellence in service providers for the outsourcing. In the next following years, the programs of the National Government like providing scholarship and allocating budget in the trainings to the near hire applicants will add as manpower in strengthening the workforce of the country's outsourcing sector.
And speaking of it, India was the center of the growth in outsourcing but the Philippines is lobbying seriously to gain the paradigm shift in the outsourcing. When it was introduced in the country, it became emerging industry offering systematic technology and never-ending opportunity to the workers. The BPO in the Philippines is attributed in the offshore market raking a total of $25.6 billion in 2006, landing third between India and China. On the other hand, the overall offshore IT market is estimated at $36 billion and growing. The revenue increased to 62% comparing in 2004 with posted income of over $1.3 billion in the same year. It is estimated that 200,000 talented Filipinos are working in 120 BPO facilities nationwide in 2006. It was forecasted by the national government and outsourcing players to earn US$11 billion by employing 900,000 people by the year 2010.
The growth in the Philippine call centers is fueled because of the high-end quality contact centers offering different services such as Web design, medical transcription, software development, legal services, animation, and other shared services. The call centers have the largest portion sector because of the fluency in the English language. In maintaining the industry, the National Government continues to offer fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to attract locators to outsource their business in the country. The details of this contract is written under the 2006 Investment Priorities Plan, which was formulated by the Board of Investments (BOI), as the lead agency in promoting investments, focused on the sectors identified in the Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP) 2004-2010 (PBOI 2006).
Today, large outsourcing players started to expand their operation in the provinces giving the people from the province to work in the call center by not staying in Manila anymore. The local government units in the Philippines promote their respective cities to the foreign investors that it's viable to put up centers in their area not only in the mainland city. BPO centers are found in the cities of Lipa, Baguio, Dagupan in Luzon; the cities of Cebu, Bacolod, Dumaguete, Iloilo in Visayas region; and the cities of Davao, Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao.
The Philippines is among of the offshore "centers of excellence" in Asia Pacific alongside its fellow Asian countries which are India and China. The country is recognized to be good in the inbound and outbound call centers which satisfy the customers worldwide because of its strong English speaking people. It was reported that the Asia Pacific regions topped the as the best destination for outsourcing and placed second in terms of the BPO market solutions.
It cannot be denied that studies spearheaded by private sectors classified the Philippines as the center of excellence in service providers for the outsourcing. In the next following years, the programs of the National Government like providing scholarship and allocating budget in the trainings to the near hire applicants will add as manpower in strengthening the workforce of the country's outsourcing sector.
Top Birdwatching Sites in the Philippines
One thing that sets the Philippines apart from other travel destinations in Asia is its abundant natural resources. The "Pearl of the Orient," an archipelago comprising 7,107 islands, is becoming the leader in ecotourism in the region. With more than 600 bird species living in the country, no wonder the Philippines is one of the favorites among local and international birding enthusiasts.Since the Philippines is located in the East Asian Flyway of migratory birds, the country is an important destination for many bird species, including those considered threatened. So what are you waiting for? Grab those binoculars and embark on a birdwatching trip to the Philippines. Here are some of the recommended sites to discover the beauty and diversity of Philippine birds.Rasa IslandWhile exploring various attractions in the island paradise of Palawan in southern Philippines, don't forget to visit Rasa Island. Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2006, the island is home to the critically endangered Philippine cockatoo. Rasa Island, which was declared as one of the top birdwatching destinations in the country by the Department of Tourism, also serves as breeding ground to black-nape oriole, white-vented shama, racquet-tailed parrot, and rufous-tailed tailorbird.Candaba MarshDiscover your love with birds with a trip to Candaba Marsh in Pampanga. To encourage more birdwatchers in the area, the local government developed a former fish pond into a bird-watching site. Candaba Marsh, which is only a two-hour drive from Manila, is home to purple heron, great egret, little egret, white-browed crake, purple swamphen, and pheasant-tailed jacana. If you're lucky, you'll get a chance to see little ringed-plover, blue-tailed bee-eater, artic warbler, pacific swallow, and the pied fantail.SubicThe vast areas of undeveloped land in this former US Naval Base are known for its impressive number of bird species. Experts said there are more than 100 different types of birds in Subic, one of the top 13 birdwatching sites in the Philippines. Covering a total land area of 287.16 square kilometers, Subic accounts for 15% of all bird species throughout the country and 29% of all birds in Luzon. Some of the bird species found in Subic are the crested myna, barred rail, green imperial-pigeon, and blur-throated bee-eaters.BalangaAnother certified birdwatching paradise in the Philippines is Balanga. This second-class city in Bataan has been attracting tourists in the coastal villages of Tortugas, Sibacan, and Porto Rivas. The three areas are well-known for its feathered inhabitants, including the black-headed gull, great egret, little egret, and whiskered tern. Rare bird species such as the Asian Golden Plover and Kentish Plover also nest in Balanga.
Top Five Best Destinations in the Philippines
Have you ever considered going to the Philippines? Have you thought of the places that you'll include in your itinerary? Here are some helpful tips to consider to assist you and help you have the best experience of the country. The following places are excellently beautiful places that have been constant tourist spots. All of them have a different feel but all of them also unite in one common factor. All of them have people who represents the country's main quality which is hospitality. These places present warm and hospitable people who complement the scenery and the overall experience.
1) Boracay
If there's once place in the Philippines that has become an international attraction, Boaracay has got to be it. The white sand, the beautiful scenery, and the people, all of them comprises the overall effect of Boracay. This is one place where one can see different people from different countries. The diversity of people in Boracay is the effect of the greatness of the place. The fun in Boracay stays all day and all night. During evenings, there are parties held near the beach itself and people flock different bars and restaurants, making the place a very lively area at night.
2) Baguio
The coolest place to have a great time in the Philippines, Baguio is the summer capital of the country. It's cool climate and low temperature makes it one of the most visited places in the Philippines Baguio also presents a different scenery. It is the best place for those who love mountain sceneries. The trip going up to Baguio is quite an adventure as well, making a first-timer more excited until reaching the place.
3) Palawan
Palawan is one of the most beautiful places in the whole country. It's natural wonders, cleanliness, and stunning overall presence have captured international television as well. In one of the seasons of the Amazing Race, Palawan was chosen to be one of the places that the participants had to go to. Palawan's beauty is fitting enough and it showed during the show. Palawan's stunning natural wonders, like the underground rivers and the incredible beaches, compose all of the attracting qualities that a tourist will surely enjoy.
4) Vigan
A World heritage place, Vigan is only one of the few accredited places in the Philippines that have been considered as a place of heritage. The preserved look of the place that still showcases the old look of the Spanish-colonial Philippines. Along with the kalesa ride which complements the whole area, Vigan is one of the best-preserved places in the Philippines. Vigan is proudly considered in the country as one of the best examples of history. Vigan tells the story of the old look of the country. It has become a very hot tourist spot today and even locals appreciate the place as much as foreigners do.
5) Mayon Volcano in Bicol
This is one of the places in the Philippines that express the rich beauty of the natural wonders of the country. Mayon Volcano was considered and was famous for its perfect cone. This place is one of the most common places that can be seen in postcards even way way back. The beauty of Mayon Volcano surmounts other volcano's around the country and maybe even others that are located in Southeast Asia.
1) Boracay
If there's once place in the Philippines that has become an international attraction, Boaracay has got to be it. The white sand, the beautiful scenery, and the people, all of them comprises the overall effect of Boracay. This is one place where one can see different people from different countries. The diversity of people in Boracay is the effect of the greatness of the place. The fun in Boracay stays all day and all night. During evenings, there are parties held near the beach itself and people flock different bars and restaurants, making the place a very lively area at night.
2) Baguio
The coolest place to have a great time in the Philippines, Baguio is the summer capital of the country. It's cool climate and low temperature makes it one of the most visited places in the Philippines Baguio also presents a different scenery. It is the best place for those who love mountain sceneries. The trip going up to Baguio is quite an adventure as well, making a first-timer more excited until reaching the place.
3) Palawan
Palawan is one of the most beautiful places in the whole country. It's natural wonders, cleanliness, and stunning overall presence have captured international television as well. In one of the seasons of the Amazing Race, Palawan was chosen to be one of the places that the participants had to go to. Palawan's beauty is fitting enough and it showed during the show. Palawan's stunning natural wonders, like the underground rivers and the incredible beaches, compose all of the attracting qualities that a tourist will surely enjoy.
4) Vigan
A World heritage place, Vigan is only one of the few accredited places in the Philippines that have been considered as a place of heritage. The preserved look of the place that still showcases the old look of the Spanish-colonial Philippines. Along with the kalesa ride which complements the whole area, Vigan is one of the best-preserved places in the Philippines. Vigan is proudly considered in the country as one of the best examples of history. Vigan tells the story of the old look of the country. It has become a very hot tourist spot today and even locals appreciate the place as much as foreigners do.
5) Mayon Volcano in Bicol
This is one of the places in the Philippines that express the rich beauty of the natural wonders of the country. Mayon Volcano was considered and was famous for its perfect cone. This place is one of the most common places that can be seen in postcards even way way back. The beauty of Mayon Volcano surmounts other volcano's around the country and maybe even others that are located in Southeast Asia.
Top Ten Beautiful Sights that the Philippines has to Offer
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.) IntramurosThis 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 ParkAlso 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.) BaywalkThis 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 PinatuboThis 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 PilipinoIf 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 HayWhen 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.) BoracayBoracay 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 ApoThis 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 VolcanoThis 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 ComplexLocated 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.
Travel Philippines - Top 10 Attractions in Bohol
Bohol is an island province in the Philippines. I call it the Central Visayas wonder because it has so much to offer to tourists. The province is not only packed with natural wonders, but also rich in history. Here are my take of the top 10 things to do/see.(1) Chocolate Hills the most famous attraction of Bohol province is the 1,268 haycock hills which turn brown during dry season, hence, the name. This natural phenomenon is unique in the Philippines. To get the best 360 degree breathtaking view of the 50sq. km area where these half spheres hills are scattered, climb up the 214 steps of the view deck in Carmen, Bohol.(2) Tarsiers of Loboc The tarsier is the smallest primate in the world. And the smallest of this family is found in Bohol. They are basically nocturnal animals but the ones here in Loboc River zoo have already adapted the sleeping pattern of human. They feed on insects and hangs on tree branches. They live to the age of 20 with one mating season per year that for lasts 3 seconds. While it seems inhuman to hold them captive exposing them to stupid tourists who kept on touching them and taking photos with, I think this had helped raise the awareness of the used to be endangered specie. So in my opinion, it is worth it.(3) Loboc River Cruise lets you take lunch or dinner aboard a ferry while you enjoy the panoramic view of the palm plantation along the river, watch a live performance by Loboc locals at the river banks and children showing off by jumping off a tree to the water for 300 pesos.(4) Scuba Diving is not to be missed (if you are a scuba diver) as Bohol has one of the most prolific underwater scenes being at the center of the Visayas province. Balicasag and Cabilao Island are 2 of the most famous sites.(5) Old ChurchesThe Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Baclayon or simply called as Baclayon Church is the 2nd oldest church in the Philippines. It is one of the best preserved Jesuit built churches in the region.The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Dauis or Dauis Church is famous for its well at the altar foot. It was said to miraculously appeared when the town was attacked by pirates long time ago. It is also believed to have healing power. So when visiting, remember to bring bottles to take home some.(6) Dolphin watching is another popular attraction in the island. It is a 40 minute banca ride from Panglao island and you have to get before 7am. The dolphins were prompt and they came in hundreds. It was a magnificent show that lasted almost an hour. It is worthy to note that until 10 years ago, the locals used to be dolphin hunters. Today, it is a protected area and killing sea animals are strictly prohibited. The hunters became spotters thanks to the introduction of ecotourism by the local government.(7) Sandugo: Blood Compact is the site found in Tagbilaran City where a monument was built of the blood pact (friendship pact) made between Rajah Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Lagaspi of Spain in 1565. This site overlook the forest where it's prohibited to enter due to the number of migrant birds and other animals.(8) Loay Bolo Makers are the makers of local sword. Tourists are allowed to watch how they were made but not purchase. The sale and distribution of these were the sole responsibility of the local government to ensure that the bolo makers get a fair price.(9) Clarins Ancestral House is one of the many Spanish period houses (bahay na bato) that still stands. It is the 19th century ancestral house of the Clarins family that is now made into a national heritage site and converted into a museum.(10) Bohol Bee Farm is more than just a honey factory. It is also a resort and restaurant of organic food. Be sure to take the mini farm tour where they showcase their organic vegetable and spice garden and background to bee farming. They have a small shop selling their organic produce including wine, honey, bread spread, and more.
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