Amazing Philippine Islands Adventure

The Philippines consists of 7,107 islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is the world's 12th most populous country having about 92 million people. The country is actually composed of three main lands: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Each major island consists of small islands that are further composed of smaller islets.

The country has Filipino or Tagalog as its official language. The Philippines is also one among the top countries with the largest English speaking population. English is the second language practiced by the Filipinos with it being the medium of instruction in schools and universities. Apart from these main languages, there are other eight considered as major dialects in the country. These are Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray, Kapampangan, and Pangasinense. Some towns in provinces have their own dialects.

The Seven Thousand Plus Islands

From the top north, Philippines has Batanes, Catanduanes, Hundred Islands, Luzon, Marinduque, Masbate, Mindoro, the Palawan Group includes Alava, Albaguan, Bagambangan, Balabac, Bancalan, Barangonan, Batas, Beni, Binalabag just to name a few. The Islands of Romblon, Spratly, and many other islands also belong to the northern part of the country.

Biliran, Bohol, Cebu, Guimaras, Leyte, Negros, Palawan, Panay, Samar, Siquior, Alad, Almagro, Ambulong, Biliran, Burias, Cabilo are just some of the group of islands that made up the Visayas.

The third major division of the country has Camiguin and Mindanao that include Antocon, Bucas Grandem Dinagat, Lajanosa, Nonoc, Rock, Samal, and Siargao islands. This region also has the Sulu Archipelago that has the Basilan, Sulu, Jolo Island, and Tawi-Tawi.

The Beautiful Islands Exuding With Beauty

Every island in the country has its own natural beauty to boast. Each of them takes its own pride with astonishing glimpse of nature and heavenly place to commune with nature on a vacation getaway. Most of the awesome things in the Philippines are seen in small islets surrounding the main land.

It is through travel and exploring that you get the best of an adventure in these islands. You get to enjoy a fun filled island adventure in the Philippines. Discover the island beauty of the country by going to the different islands that hold a promising getaway experience.

Many islands in the Philippines await its guests to open the opportunity to discover its beauty. Cebu, Batangas, Davao, Bohol, and Bicol are just among the many popular islands in the Philippines that are top destinations by local and foreign tourists. These are just some of the 7,107 islands in the country that brought about exhilarating and unparalleled experience to so many vacationers. A travel to the Philippines will give you the rare opportunity to be in the best diving sites, to see the royalties of flower, fruits, and skies. It is also in the Philippines that you get to see nature's innate way of bringing up a perfectly cone shape volcano, mounds that looked like uniformly molded chocolate, bats, and tarsiers.

Exploring a country just like the Philippines can give you a majestic island adventure. The beauty of nature, the warmth of its people and the beautiful islands in the country can provide tourists a tranquil feeling that will truly make every trip to the Philippine island a truly amazing experience.

About the Author

Jose Maria Abada writes travel articles for Philippine Travel Guide. You can find helpful information about the Philippine Airlines and Philippine Travel on this website.

Philippines - Discover the Beautiful Islands and Beaches of the Philippines

The Philippine Islands is a one of a kind Southeast Asian country located at the western part of the Pacific Ocean. The country is an archipelago composed of 7,107 islands making the Philippines bound to have so many famous islands and beaches. Philippines is gifted with a vast beauty of nature in every aspect. Here, one can discover one of the most amazing beaches in the world with its wonderful wildlife and sea creatures one could ever find. Listed are some of the Islands that are truly must see in the Philippines:

* The Boracay Island - located at Caticlan, Iloilo, one of the islands at the country's Visayan region. This island is very well known around the world. It has a breath taking view of its white sand beaches that captivates everyone. People from around the world and the locals spend most f their vacations here. Some even choose this place to celebrate special occasions such as weddings and others. Boracay Island is also a perfect place for snorkeling, surfing and other water sport activities.

* Malapascua Island - located at the northeast part of Cebu City shores. A gorgeous beach with a perfect view of its skyline. Malapascua is a place for diving and site seeing in the island's many caves. It also is an ideal place to watch stars at night time which everyone will truly enjoy.

* Bantayan Island - found in the North West regions of Cebu. This island has a beautiful white sand beach resort, which is locally called "white-white sand" for is has the whitest sand beach ever and crystal clear waters that reveals the magnificent beauty of the sea. People love to go here for apart from being a very amazing beach, the food here are also delicious but with its cheap price. Bantayan Island is perfect for Filipinos and other tourists for them to spend their summer vacations.

* Honday Bay and Nagtoban Island - located in Palawan, near the Puerta Princesa. These islands have a variety of beaches with perfect country side scenery. Though the place is not familiar with tourists coming from abroad, the Honday Bay and Nagtoban Island have been a favorite destination of the Filipinos especially those living near the area. There are establishments around the islands which offer cheap accommodations ideal for families who want to have a wonderful vacation though in a tight budget.

* Camiguin - an island found at the southwest part of Cebu and south with that of Bohol's. A relaxing place to go for an escape from a busy city life. The place is pretty laid-back which will be mostly enjoyed by nature lovers.

These are the few wonderful islands and beaches found in the Philippines. There many more for everyone to explore once they get to this truly awesome country.

About the Author

Her blogs and websites focuses on stay-at-home moms, dads and students who wants to work at home, build homebased business http://www.mommyisworkingathome.com

Visit her Interesting Site on Asian Travels and Destinations. Discover Asia's Culture and Great Food! at http://www.goingplacesinasia.com

Exploring Cebu Island - From the Birthplace of Catholicism to the Stunning Coastal Escapes

In the centre and a bit towards the south of Philippines sprawls a long strip of island called Cebu Island, the capital of Cebu Province set in the Central Visayas Region. Cebu City, the capital of the Cebu Island, is a commercial hub and houses a bustling international port. The Cebu Island is packed with scores of tourist attractions including great beach resorts, historical sites and diving spots.

The earliest Spanish settlement in Philippines is recorded in the Cebu City, which is also considered the oldest city of the country. Cebu City is also called the Queen City of the South, as it used to be a prosperous commercial and trade hub even in the past. A sightseeing tour in Cebu is certain to take you back to the 16th century, the time when Spanish seafarers first settled here.

Cebu City nestles many colonial buildings and religious venues influenced by the Spanish. One of the most famous religious and historical attractions here is the Magellan's Cross. It was installed under the direction of Ferdinand Magellan, following his advent to Cebu Island. Presently a new cross is exhibited at the chapel called the Kiosk, in the vicinity of the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino. The original cross is secured within another wooden cross and rests on a concrete pedestal in the heart of the Kiosk. The interior of the Kiosk's conical dome display some striking murals depicting stories of the baptism.

The next door Basilica of Santo Nino, also called Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, is considered as the oldest church in the country, with a baroque facade built in the 16th century. The Santo Nino, a statue of the Child Jesus, is enshrined here. The basilica houses a fine museum displaying antiques, statues, large rosary, Santo Nino's cloak, gifts and vestments. Cebu boasts of one of the oldest and smallest Spanish ports known as Fort San Pedro. The city is also home to Asia's birthplace of Catholicism, the Cebu Cathedral.

Mactan Island sits only a few kilometres from Cebu Island and serves as a great tourist attraction in Philippines. In Mactan you will come across a lifelike statue of Datu Lapu-Lapu holding a tribal shield and a sword. He was a daring chieftain of Mactan Island who fought with his fellowmen against the Magellan's army and suppressed them during the Battle of Mactan. The monuments Magellan Shrine and Lapu-Lapu Shrine in Mactan were built to commemorate this battle.

Mactan Aquarium in the Lapu-Lapu City in Mactan Island is an excellent place to explore a wide variety of fish and learn more about them. You will see sharks, star fish, corals, jelly fish, urchins and numerous exotic fish representing marine life from the Filipino portion of the Coral Triangle. This triangle is a territory in the Pacific Ocean and is recognized as a global hub for marine diversity.

Mactan hosts more than 70 diving spots to view thriving coral reefs. You can take a glass boat ride, scuba dive or snorkel to explore the vibrant corals, the home of myriads of elusive beings. Mactan and many islands near Cebu Island provide great beaches to sunbathe and simply relax.

Things to see and do in Cebu Island are countless, and range from sightseeing historical sites with Spanish influences to exploring the rich underwater habitats. You can easily find accommodation at an exclusive Cebu resort spa like Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa Cebu. Enjoy this resort's sumptuous comforts while indulging in the warm tropical sun, turquoise sea and the dazzling white beaches in Cebu.

About the Author

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Mactan Island Philippines - Make it Your Next Tourist Destination

History, culture, and religion, you will not find a shortage on Mactan Island. Mactan Island's legendary battle involving the renowned Portuguese conquering explorer Ferdinand Magellan and the Philippine's proclaimed hero Lapu-Lapu is but a small part of what this island truly offers. Written history started during Magellan's exploration of the Philippines. It is said that in the year 1200 A.D. that Filipinos started migrating south and inhabiting most of its islands, but of this we cannot be certain. Most of the history before 1521 A.D. is from oral and/or archaeological data, therefore unreliable at best.
Magellan found the Philippines while looking for a westward route to the Moluccus Islands, where he then ordered his ships to anchor on the shores of Homonhon Island. Magellan was then guided to Cebu where he claimed the Philippines as Spanish territory and ordered that the Philippines pay tribute to Spain's ruler Infante Carlos, Count of Molina, or Charles V. Lapu-Lapu one of two Mactan Island tribal chiefs, opposed Spanish rule and refused to pay tribute to her king. Magellan took 49 men to Mactan Island. Unfortunately Mactan Island's beautiful coral reefs which extended some 50 meters from shore would not allow Magellan to use their superior firepower on the estimated 1500 opposition. Magellan perished in the battle, and there is now a monument both celebrating Lapu-Lapu's victory, and remembering Ferdinand Magellan demise.

Attractions:

Lapu-Lapu Shrine

was built to honor Mactan Chieftain Lapu-Lapu's Heroic efforts in resisting foreign oppression. Today he is considered one of the Philippine's first national heroes. Others may call this the liberty shrine, and can be viewed for free as this is one of Mactan Island's top tourist attractions.

Magellan's Marker

is believed by some historians to be the exact location of Magellan's death. It is located near Lapu-Lapu Shrine and can also be viewed at no cost. This landmark was built in 1866 to memorialize the Portuguese explorer.

Philippine Culture Shows

are regularly performed at many of the 12 resorts spanning the island. These shows depict tribal dancing and sometimes historical reenactments of the islands history. You can easily get information on this quality entertainment from most all establishments on the island.

Open water diving and snorkeling

is the islands main focus with a dozen or more ocean sanctuaries, 30-50 meter reef walls, and beautiful white sands make this past time very appealing. Every resort specializes in diving, and can offer you a quality experience. It is recommended if you plan to scuba dive that you acquire your basic water certification before you make the trip.

Getting To Mactan Island:

Once you arrive in Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines you would need to make it to the fast ferry. All drivers in Cebu City know where this is. You can take traditional travel or hail a cab to the ferry. Prices are very reasonable, but I do suggest you barter; foreigners seem to get an abnormally high starter price. Once you arrive in Mactan you can take a cab or traditional travel to any of the 12 resorts spanning the island.

Lodging:

Cebu Beach Club

Cebu Hilton Resort and Spa

Cebu White Sands

Cordova Reef Village Resort

Costabella Tropical Beach Resort

Days Hotel Cebu

EGI Resort and Hotel

Maribago Bluewater Resort

Plantation Bay Mactan

Shangri-la's Mactan Island Resort

Tambuli Beach Club East Wing

Tambuli Beach Club West Wing

Waterfront Hotel Mactan

Food and Beverage:

Food is one of the biggest disappointments, there is not much for traditional flavors, and most of the establishments reside in your resort. When the resort gets you they plan to keep you there. I would suggest heading to Cebu if you want to see a larger selection of restaurants and bars, it's a ferry ride away, and some great fun and entertainment. Most of the time I would say trust your driver on where to go, he usually knows the best spots for your money and stomach.

About the Author

World Travel Destinations dedicated to sharing useful information on world travel spots, travel tips, vacation ideas for a single traveler or family vacations, romantic getaways and whole lot more for the online community. Check out other information on Asia Travel GuideHoneymoon Hotel In Thailand. and

4 Helpful Pointers to Find the Best La Union Resorts

Major activities are regularly carried out in the province like the La Union Surf Break event. If you intend to witness this kind of event, it pays to plan early and make an early hotel and resort booking.

At first glance, it appears that locating the best La Union resort for your place to stay can be a daunting task. This is specially true if you are not familiar with the place. More so, if you heavily rely on search engine results for your decision. However, locating good resorts in La Union can be rather easy. These 5 tips can justify why such a claim.

1) Get the list of accredited La Union Hotel and Resorts from the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 1

The DOT as part of its mandate provides accreditation to hotels and resorts. This means that a DOT accredited resort has complied with the standards set by this agency for tourism. Just search online for its official website using the keyword Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 1. Remember though to check other La Union resorts outside the accredited list. There could be deserving resorts whose accreditation is not yet in force.

2) Get suggestions through social network sites and popular online forums and portals

Social network sites like Facebook and Twitter can help you find a lead for your desired La Union resort. You can make a post and/or use the built in search facility of these sites. Alternatively, look for popular Filipino or Ilocos based community forums online or portal and create threads and post your La Union resort inquiry.

3) Use search engines properly

Using the keyword "best La Union resort or resorts" may not yield the best search engine results. This is because only those optimized sites for that long tail keywork will appear in the top list. Vary your keyword search so that you can generate a more reliable list. La Union resort reviews from bloggers can be a good source of information.

4) Browse La Union's website or contact the Tourism Officer of the province

Definitely, tourism promotion is one of the main thrusts of the province of La Union. Its website alone can already provide you with relevant information (Just search online for its official website using the keyword La Union Philippines). It has also its tourism designated desk officer who can competently respond to tourism related inquiries and concerns.

The above tips should be helpful in ensuring your search for the best resorts to stay in La Union. Now you can expect an exciting trip to the province and catch a major event like the La Union Surf Break without much hassles in tow.

About the Author

For your travel guide to La Union and other areas in Ilocos, visit the site Ilocos Philippines. You will also come across other relevant information about Ilocos

Iloilo, Philippines - Top Must Visiting Tourist Attractions

Situated in the Western Visayas region, Iloilo is a province of Philippines.The localites of this province are called Ilonggos, who speak two local languages one is Hiligaynon and the other one is Kinaray-a.Fiesta is a major festival of Iloilo celebrated annually in every town of this province.It is a colorful event.As far as tourism is concerned, it is one of the major sources of its economy.

This part of Philippines offers something for the people of all ages, right from spectacular beaches to great museums, majestic churches, beautiful gardens, theme parks, shopping areas and more.Thousands of people from across the globe come to Philippines for beach vacations, as it is bursting with numerous stunning beaches.One of the sites that houses huge number of beautiful beaches in this country is Iloilo.So, make your tour to this site and enjoy the best that Philippines beaches have to offer.The top five beaches of this province are Tambaliza, Agho, Antonia and Puerto del Mar.These are the best picnicking spots offering wonderful sightseeing and many adventurous activities to enjoy.The most exciting activities, which you will surely love are snorkeling, kayaking, diving, combing and sun bathing etc.

After beaches, churches are most visited attractions in this area.People looking for divine peace mostly visit these sacred houses.You will find a lot of Spanish architecture influences over these holy buildings, which make them more attractive.

There are many churches in the province of Philippines but the most famous ones are - Santa Barbara Church, Jaro Cathedral and Miagao Church.These holy buildings are the national landmarks of the country.So, while on vacation here, must visit these historic sites of the Province.

Although Beaches and Old Churches are the most popular tourist attractions, there are many other places of interest too to visit in this region. Some of the most popular tourist spots except beaches, & churches that you must visit here include - The Bulabog Puti-an National Park, Concepcion Island, Isla de Higantes, and Old Downtown Iloilo etc.

Besides incredible sightseeing, this part of Philippines also provides many adventurous activities to its visitors.One of the best activities that draw thousands of enthusiasts here is diving. Iloilo houses numerous world famous dive sites, where visitors can have an exciting diving experience as well as can enjoy watching incredible marine life at its best.The top ranked dive sites here include - Iyang, Danao-Danao, Balbagon, Anhawan Island and Igbon Island.

So, make your vacation to this nature lover's paradise and find all that certainly make an ideal holiday.You can easily reach this part of Philippines by air, road, rails and sea ways.And for those bothering for lodging, there are many cheap to luxury hotels, motels, inns, resorts in Iloilo, which offer top class accommodation and services at best affordable price. Some of the most popular lodging options of this area include - Century 21 Hotel, Sarabia Manor and Convention Center, Highway 21 Hotel, Hotel Del Rio and Amigo Terrace etc.

About the Author

For more information on Iloilo and Accommodation please visit our website.

Whitewater Rafting in the Philippines

A Philippine whitewater rafting experience is all at once thrilling, exhilarating, exciting, and relaxing. This sport is one of the newest extreme adventures to hit the country, and one that suits its features entirely. For many years, adventure seekers bypassed the Philippines in favor of other places such as Nepal and Borneo, and the raging Philippine rivers remained untouched. But it wasn't for long. Once whitewater rafting was established, Filipinos have grown to love the sport and the places that offer it have found themselves to be new tourist spots.

Whitewater rafting in the Philippines started in 1997 when three Americans (Ned Sickles, Gary Fondren, and Dr. Bob Anderson) found the Chico River via satellite mapping and thought it could be a whitewater rafting location. They then travelled to the Cordilleras to have their first exploratory run. And from there, the rest is history.

Whitewater Rafting Locations

Several enterprising and adventurous Filipinos have realized the potential for having whitewater rafting and/or adventure packages available in their travel offerings and have thus included them in their vacation packages. The following are the locations that many people and travel adventurers go to when whitewater rafting in the Philippines:

Cagayan de Oro

It is known pretty much to the rest of the country that Cagayan de Oro is the whitewater rafting destination. There really is nothing quite like a rafting trip on the Cagayan de Oro River. Breathtaking rapids that provide adventurous thrills coupled with strikingly beautiful panoramic views of the river's rocky walls, untouched vegetation, and the sight of the resting haven of monkeys. The Cagayan de Oro River has everything that makes for a memorable experience with the awesome roar and power of water cascading over rocks and boulders.

Best Times to Go (CDO)

June to December are peak rafting seasons, but rafting season is year round.

Davao

Whitewater rafting in Davao happens in Davao River, which ranks seventh among the largest river basins I the Philippines. This river is the main natural reservoir of the aquifer in the city's jurisdiction.

The river has a total length of 143 kilometers, stretching through a good number of streams. Suawan River and Tamugan River are its main tributaries, the waters of which flow with that of the waters of the streams to which the river passes through. The minimum age for whitewater rafting in Davao is 6 years old.

Best Times to Go (Davao)

Rafting season here is all year round.

Antique

With its numerous rivers, Antique is an ideal whitewater kayaking and rafting location. Whitewater rafting happens on the Tibiao River, a river that rises on the slopes of Mt. Madja and plunges over 1,000 meters on its short run to the ocean.There is about 23 kilometers of navigable water on the river but access to upper section is difficult.

Quezon Province

Its location (only two hours away from the noise and smog of Metro Manila) make it an attractive location for rafters who want to fill their whitewater cravings. The river goes by the non-descript name Kaliwa, meaning "left" in Tagalog. It is part of the Agus river system, whose other branch is called Kanan, "right." The recent commencement of regular rafting tours on this river has allowed interested rafters or kayakers to enjoy a true wilderness experience without having to travel very far from Manila.

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 LocalPhilippines will most likely feature it.

About the Author

Liee Lozano works for LocalPhilippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions. The aim of LocalPhilippines is to take you to over 7,107 destinations, which will give you that WOW experience only the Philippines and Filipinos can give.

Davao Philippines: A Place That Straddles Two Worlds

Endowed with a variety of picturesque landscapes, Davao's topography dazzles: Fruit plantations and orchid farms mantle volcano-fed hills and valleys. Virgin forests nurture rare wildlife. Coral islands lie on mirror flat water. And the country's highest peak magnificently lords over the hinterland.

Just as enchanting is its brilliant tapestry of harmony, woven from the diverse cultural threads of its people. In Davao, the contemporary fuses with the traditional as migrant settlers from all over the country co-exist in peace with a fairly large expatriate community and numerous ethnic tribes who continue to live as they did centuries ago.

It is the hub of commerce and industry in the Southern Mindanao region. Yet, to this day, Davao City continues to straddle two worlds - the new and the old.

Part of it is a flourishing metropolis of business districts, mechanized farms and cosmopolitan villages where "instant millionaires" live. And the other part is a rural landscape of hills that roll down into fertile valleys, dominated by the 2,954-meter-high Mount Apo, the grandfather of all Philippine mountains, and peopled by the Bagobo, Manobo, Mandaya, Bilaan and other ancestral tribes.

LAND OF PLENTY

"Kadayawan sa Dabaw" is Davao City's premier festival and showcases the natural and cultural bounty of the land.

A movable feast in August, the week-long merrymaking highlights the manifold tribal cultures of the region which are vividly expressed in traditional songs, dances, games and crafts. It is also on this occasion when a lively trade fair, capped by a flower-and-fruit float parade, takes place. Street dancing and popular entertainment complete the celebration.

Agriculture-based industries thrive in the Davao region. A major exporter of bananas, citrus, mangosteen and other tropical fruits, it is also the biggest producer of cultured flowers in the country. Its surrounding waters are rich sources for commercial fishing. The world's largest city in terms of land area, Davao covers all of 244,000 hectares.

KING OF THE HEAVENS

The Philippine Eagle has the countenance of regal majesty - snowy white plumes dappled with gray, a distinct crested head matched with a pair of sharp eyes and strong curved beak, a powerful eight-foot wingspan, and lethal preying claws. An endangered species, the world's largest eagle has found refuge at the Philippine Eagle Research and Nature Center in the Malagos rainforest in Calinan, 45 minutes away from downtown Davao.

It was here where the first ever Philippine Eagle was born in captivity. Aptly named Pag-asa (Hope), she is testament to how seriously Davao protects its environmental heritage. To this day, more eaglets are bred and nurtured at the sanctuary.

Only too soon, the Philippine Eagle will take its rightful place in the sky. Soaring proud and unafraid as King of the Heavens.

QUEEN OF THE RAINFOREST

On the slopes of Mount Apo was discovered the waling-waling, an orchid of exceptional attributes - with full, velvety petals tinged in royal colors of purple, red and yellow.

So delicate is this stunning bloom that it can only thrive on fresh and balmy air. The waling-waling (Vanda sanderiana) has since been successfully transplanted from its natural environment and cultivated in many of Davao's flower farms. Retailing at several hundred dollars a plant, the Queen of the Rainforest has become an attractive business proposition.

ISLAND FLAVORS

Davao's claim to culinary fame is grilled "bariles" (tuna) jaw dipped in soy sauce and "kalamansi" (native lemon). The marketplace, abundant with seafoods, meats and fresh tropical fruits, is the best place to savor local flavors.

At the Sta. Ana Wharf, Luz Kinilaw Place is famous for its local version of the Japanese sashimi - bite-size chunks of raw fish marinated in vinegar, chili pepper and other spices. For more gustatory experiences, drop by the restaurant row along F. Torres St. and Magsaysay Park. Also check out Fiesta Dabaw and Zugba Restaurant at Apo View Hotel and Yellow Fin Restaurant at Ecoland.

ISLAND ADVENTURE

One simply does not get bored in Davao. There are just so many options for a pleasurable stay. Try cultural immersion. Or farm visit. Or golf. Or trek. Or scuba dive. Or shop. Or simply laze around the islands and watch the world go by. The possibilities just go on and on! At the T'boli Weaving Center, watch the colorful tribe of bola women as they handloom the intricate tinalak fabric. More tribal art and material culture can be gleaned at the nearby Davao Museum.

Brassware, ethnic trinkets and shellcraft make great souvenirs. Splurge and indulge at the Aldevinco Shopping Center on CM Recto Street, Nieva's Arts and Crafts in Lanang, Precy's Creation and Handicrafts in Bajada, and Handmade Treasures at Gaisano Mall.

Orchids, whether cut or potted, are also good buys. Check out the Mindanao Flower Market (Minflo Mart) in Barangay Pampanga. For more farm visits, go to the Bago Oshiro Experimental Station in Mintal, Derling Worldwide Orchid Corporation in Buhangin, Greenhills Orchid Farm in Catalunan Pequeo, Puentespina Orchid Garden in Agdao, or the Malagos Garden Resort (Orchid Farm) at the Baguio district in Calinan. At the Gap Fruit Farm, one can gorge on Davao's famous sweet pomelos and oranges.

Two of the country's most popular 18-hole golf courses are found in Davao. Lanang Golf and Country Club has its fairways laid out in an estate lush with tropical fruits while Apo Golf and Country Club in Dumoy is set on a vast coconut plantation with natural hazards. For those with less time to fore, the 9-hole New Davao City Golf Club in Matina fits the tee. Nightlife entertainment is provided by music bars, discotheques and the casino, which also serves good food and offers live musical performances.

Filipinos do not simply provide the guest with a place to rest or park their luggage, they also share the best of what they have. This warm, effusive brand of hospitality is what distinguishes Philippine hotels from the others (Philippine Department of Tourism).

About the Author

Did you find this article about Davao Philippines useful? If you want to know more about Philippines travel locations , please visit http://philippinestravelassistant.blogspot.com

Philippine Road Trip Destinations

One way to discover the beauty of the Philippines is by road-tripping, either by driving your own car or using public transport to take you to one tourist attraction to another. Hitting the road is ideal on weekends, when traffic is light. There are lots of destinations to choose from in the archipelago of 7,107 islands, all you need is a travel guide, comfortable clothing, a handy camera, and spare cash to buy souvenirs and trinkets.

In the island of Luzon alone, there are countless options on where to go and discover the Philippines. Here are some of the recommended road trip destinations in the country.

Manila
A simple road trip in the Philippines usually starts in Manila, the country's capital. The city is a favorite among travelers as it is rich in cultural heritage. Turn back the hands of time and discover Manila's Spanish influence with a trip to Intramuros (Walled City), wherein some of the oldest churches, including Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church are located. Other points of interest in Manila are the Rizal Park, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the Malacañang Palace.

Laguna
Located southeast of Metro Manila, Laguna is also a perfect road trip destination because it hosts numerous man-made and natural attractions. If you want to relive your childhood memories, a trip to the Enchanted Kingdom amusement theme park in Sta. Rosa is highly recommended. However, if you want to get closer to nature, head straight to Valesol Haven in Los Baños. Laguna is also famous for Pagsanjan Falls, Mt. Makiling, Taytay Falls, and wood carvings and papier mache of Paete.

Pampanga
The province of Pampanga is a haven for foodies. Known as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, Pampanga is famous for various dishes from traditional to exotic ones. It is also an ideal place to rekindle your religious spirit, as the province is home to some of the country's beautiful churches such as Betis Church in Guagua. If you're lucky, you will witness some of Pampanga's colorful events such as the Philippine International Hot-Air Balloon Fiesta every February and the Giant Lantern Festival every December.

Ilocos Region
A notable travel destination in northern Philippines is Ilocos Sur, which is considered a treasure trove of history and culture. Its provincial capital, Vigan, was declared a World Heritage Site due to its carefully preserved Hispanic houses and cobble-stoned streets. Meanwhile, Ilocos Norte also deserves a visit. In Pagudpud, relax and enjoy its white-sand beaches while experience entering a different dimension in La Paz Sand Dunes.

Baguio
Another great weekend retreat destination is Baguio City, the summer capital of the Philippines. Founded by the Americans in 1900, Baguio depends on the tourism industry to boost its coffers. Among its renowned tourist attractions include the Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, and the Mansion. The city is also popular for its strawberry farms and horseback riding sites. Bargain clothes and various sweets are also a hit in Baguio.

Road-tripping in the Philippines is not only confined in Luzon. There are also amazing tourist attractions in Visayas and Mindanao like Cebu, Leyte, Bohol, and Davao to name a few.

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.

About the Author

Allan Leandro Merin has been writing for a living since 2008. After leaving a career at a daily electronic crew newspaper, he joined a web development outsourcing company and linked up with Local Philippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions.

Visit the Top Attractions in Manila Philippines - Museums and Churches

Manila, a capital city of Philippines is the world's eleventh largest metropolitan area located on the eastern shores of Manila Bay.It is also the chief seaport of the country.This city hosts everything right from incredible attractions to exciting nightlife, shopping, sports and more.With such amazing tourist attractions and activities, Manila ensures a lot of enjoyment and entertainment to its visitors.The major tourist attractions of this city are museums and churches.

If you are on vacation with your family in Manila then there is no other better option to visit than Museums.The list of Manila museums includes - the Cultural Center, the Financial Center of the CCP Complex, Ayala on Makati Avenue, the National Museum, the San Agustin Museum, Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Lopez Memorial and the University of Santo Tomas Museum. Out of these the most famous ones are National Museum, San Agustin Museum and University of Santo Tomas.

The National Museum was established in 1901 as the Insular Museum of Natural History, Ethnology, and Commerce. This mainly exhibits artworks of 19th-century that is related to the entire history of Manila city.San Agustin Museum features ecclesiastical art collection with old paintings of saints and colonial religious art.This is an old monastery attracting large number of people.While University of Santo Tomas exhibits many species of flora and fauna of entire Philippines.

Churches are the other major attractions of the city.People looking for divine peace mostly visit these holy sites.There are many famous churches in the city but the most popular and internationally known one is San Agustin Church. It was founded during the Spanish colonial period, hence this is considered as the oldest church and is also claimed to be the oldest building among all the surviving buildings in the Philippines.The Philippine government has declared it National Historical Landmark and the UNESCO has declared it the World Heritage Site.Therefore, people from across the world come to see this wonderful church.

After the sightseeing, the best activity that every visitor can enjoy here includes shopping.Manila hosts number of shopping malls and market streets that are mostly found in the areas of Malate and Ermita.Apart from shopping malls and shops, you can find the first-rate clubs and bars too in these areas that offer exotic nightlife.

The main part of any vacation is lodging.People first look for comfortable accommodation and then go for sightseeing.While on vacation here, you need not trouble much for appropriate accommodation as there are many hotels, motels, inns and resorts in the city ranging from cheap to luxury.If you are with tight budget then must choose to stay into one of the cheap hotels, this way you can reduce much of your expenditure.Unlike, if you can spend lavishly to enrich your vacation then lodging in one of the finest luxury hotels is the best option.The major luxury hotels of the city are mostly found in downtown area.

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Local Philippines: Be Cool in Bicol

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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Visit Bicol Region to complete your ultimate Philippine vacation. Various attractions from unspoiled beaches to fascinating festivals await tourists in Bicolandia.

The Philippines: New Wakeboarding Mecca

These past years, a lot of extreme sports have made their way to Philippine shores. One of the most exciting of the bunch is wakeboarding. Before being officially called wakeboarding, the sport was formerly known under the names skurfing and ski-boarding. It is indeed very similar to surfing in that you have to ride a board on a water surface.

In the Philippines, wakeboarding has started to gain more and more followers. Current popular wakeboarding spots in the Philippines include Batangas and Camarines Sur.

To better explain wakeboarding, it is a sport where a motorboat (at great speeds) is pulling a person standing on some sort of surfboard. It doesn't stop there. As the wakeboarder is pulled by the motorboat, he also must perform certain stunts. The sport has evolved from its humble beginnings to one very exciting sport with its own association and a place in the prestigious X Games.

Wakeboarding in the Philippines

Currently, there are two major wakeboarding locations in the Philippines: Batangas and Camarines Sur.

In Batangas, you can wakeboard and waterski facilities such as the Lago de Oro Cable Ski Park and Resort.

The newly-opened CamSur Watersports Complex provides locals and tourists with another major wakeboarding venue, as well as a place to try other water sports such as kneeboarding, wakeskating, and water-skiing. This water sports complex is very large and the facilities are state of the art. It is worth a visit if you are an avid wakeboarder.

As of this writing, there are also wakeboarding locations in Davao and Clark, Pampanga.

Lago de Oro - This is the country's first cable wakeboard park and continues to be popular. Lago de Oro is also a resort that boasts of complete amenities available for its visitors. They have a number of restaurants where one can enjoy sumptuous food after a full day of water sports activities.

CamSur Watersports Complex - CamSur Watersports Complex was the site of the 2009 WWA Ultimate Wakeboard Championships, greatly adding to its reputation as a world-class wakeboarding site and water sports venue. Accommodations as well as other amenities are available in the complex, as well as nearby areas. CamSur is an abbreviation for Camarines Sur, which is the location of this water park.

DECA Wakeboard Park - located in one of the country's premiere cities, the DECA Wakeboard Park is the largest wakeboarding park in Southeast Asia and is serving as a way to introduce the sport to the southern part of the country. The addition of DECA to the list of wakeboarding facilities in the country has greatly contributed to the Philippines' reputation as a wakeboarding Mecca.

Clark Wakeboard Park - Newly opened and proving to be a prime wakeboarding location due to its proximity to Metro Manila, it is popular with city dwellers looking for their quick wakeboarding fix over the weekend. Clark Wakeboard Parks round out the list of world-class wakeboarding and water sports facilities this country has, and will surely help seal the country's reputation as an important destination for water sports enthusiasts.

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 LocalPhilippines will most likely feature it.

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Liee Lozano works for LocalPhilippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions. The aim of LocalPhilippines is to take you to over 7,107 destinations, which will give you that WOW experience only the Philippines and Filipinos can give.

Siargao Philippines: The Adventures of Going Reef Surfing

You love to surf. You've always liked surfing ever since you got your first surfboard from your brother as a gift on your 21st birthday. You major problem is that you are only able to do this when you're in Hawaii for a visit or when you find yourself visiting the Philippines and end up in Siargao.

Then the local government unit has decided to set up precautions in saving the ocean, the marine life that dwells in it, and set up some artificial reefs to encourage the fish and other marine creatures to populate whole area. You might be amazed however that these artificial reefs also serve as the breakwater, producing surfable waves in the process. This is the time you have found out about how to reef surf.

It's actually the same as natural surfing only that people reef surf on waves that are produced by the reefs that surround the whole area. It's not an issue of whether it made of natural or artificial ways, what matters more is that the waves they are creating are like manna from heaven to these surf reef enthusiasts.

You have to know though that reef surf is more dangerous and challenging than surfing the natural waves of the ocean. Reefs that are formed naturally have spikes in them and they are solid as a rock which makes it deadly if you'll fall off your surf board. If you think that falling is inevitable, make sure to wear a helmet. You wouldn't want to cut yourself right in the head and get a concussion in the process, right? Or your dignity might have been crushed after a fall which can be easily prevented if you were modest enough not to show off your skills.

Never forget that reef surfing is a dangerous and challenging adventure but safety must be first priority when you go into the water in the intention of riding huge waves. Be safe at all times. Through this you will be able to experience the joys in surfing having more confidence and full of excitement. You know that you are executing the right moves, wearing the appropriate gears, and with this you are aware that you are not in harm's way.

Popular beaches the world over offer reef surfing from the El Segundo Beach in California and the Cable Beach in Perth to the beach in Boscombe, UK that is known to have larger waves by 30%.

This information can be a cause of celebration among surfers since they can be in the US or in the South Pacific or the UK and still can reef surf anytime they like.

If you're in the Philippines, there's always the beautiful Siargao. Enjoy surfing then!

About the Author

When you do Reef Surf you better know the real score. Get the most appropriate techniques and how-tos from Surfing Secrets Revealed.

Best Beach destinations in the Philippines

Philippine's is one of the tropical countries that can be found in Asia, specifically in South East Asia. It has a temperature range of 22 to 38 degrees Celsius during the summer and humidity of 85 percent. It is abundant with tropical jungle, paradise-like beaches and luxury resorts. List below are some of the finest beach and resorts you can go to when you're in the country;

a. White beach in Boracay Island. A spectacular place but because of tourism this place has became busy lately. It has soft and fine white sand and the beach stretches for three (3) miles. There a lots of hotels available that ranges from three to five star, bars and restaurants. The beach in Boracay is included in the world's top ten beaches, that's why this place is currently observe on how tourism changes the environment.
There are no corals found near the beach but there are boats available that can take you to diving sites. There is also wind surfing months from November to April. The best time to go to this place is in the month of January to May, but be warned that April is the start of summer vacation in the Philippines' and this place is surely crowded during the period. July to September are also good months with some random rains.

b. The Honday Bay in Palawan. A place to be known for its natural beauty. It has 1170 islands and it is one of the under develop holiday destination in South East Asia, Except for the "El Nido resort". It's a paradise for divers, snorkelers and adventurers because of the lack of development of this place. Honda Bay is known for its Canon Island, Bat Island and Starfish Island, it also has a World Heritage park named Tubbataha Reef Marine Park which is the best dive spot. There are dive boats available in the months of March up to May. This place is also known for its jungle eco-hikes that include an 8.2 kilometer underground river trip. It is open in the months of December up to May, other months are not advisable because of the heavy rains and the danger that may arise.

c. The Malapascua Island in Cebu. This small island is found in the North-West from the Cebu Island. It just opened recently to cater international market but the price of things here are a little too high already according to Worlds Best Beach. Some say that this place is promising and may become the second Boracay of the Philippine.
There's a place called threshers sharks that is becoming a famous diving center, it is found between the island of Cebu and Leyte. It is dry in the months of February to May but other months of the year are good with some rain showers. October to December are not good months for this place because of the rainy season.

d. The Muelle Bay, Puerto Galera in Mindoro. Perto Galera is one of the best places to go for Island hopping, starting from the archipelago of Luzon. The most popular beach in this place are White Beach and Tamaraw Beach, there's a beach near Sabang that has a facility for coral cruising. The best time to go to this place is from November to June. Other months are good also with some random rains in the afternoon.

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Author has an Avril lavigne fan site at Avril Lavigne Interview
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Palawan - One of the Top Destinations in the Philippines

Everyone has an enchanting experience with their Palawan tours with all the beautiful marine and wild life found in Palawan. Anyone seeking for both water and land adventures will find it when they take a Palawan tour. A Palawan tour is Philippines pride that helps the country's tourism industry flourish.

Palawan is known to be the last ecological frontier of the Philippines. The natural beauty of Palawan is an inviting sight which attracts thousands of visiting tourists annually. Because of the flourishing tourism industry in Palawan, hotels and restaurants are blooming businesses here where Palawan tour packages are available at a reasonable price.

Most Palawan tours include packages inclusive of several activities such as mountain trekking, cliff climbing, diving, kayaking and a tour to the Subterranean Underground River. Palawan Island is rich with ecological attractions where many kinds of fauna and flora are seen. You may choose to start your Palawan tours from the southern or northern part of the Palawan Island.

Northward Palawan tour destination will give you unlimited choices of activities to do. If you crave for wreck diving, then Coron Palawan you should go. Many Japanese shipwrecks during the World War II sunk in this northern coast of Coron Palawan. Many tourist and wreck divers prefer their Palawan tour directed on the northern part of Palawan Island because of the rich and abundant coral and reef life here. The different and colorful marine life is loveable underwater sights and many photographers take advantage of the natural beauty of Palawan's marine life.

Snorkeling activities are an all time favorite among island hoppers. Island hopping is one of the common inclusions for a Palawan tour packages. A trip to Barracuda Island is a thrilling experience where barracuda of about 40 ft long were often sighted. Snorkeling above shallow water where many reef and corals grow on top of a sunken ship is also a favorite among tourists.

Palawan tour on the southern part of Palawan will show you many ecological sites. Trekking the cliffs and mountain peaks will give you an absolutely stunning view of the beach and the southern coasts of Palawan. The ecological park is considered to be a sanctuary to endangered species such as the Palawan mousedeer, the famous Palawan peacock pheasant and cockatoos. The conservation park is also a good place to visit.

One of the famous scenic spots visited by tourist with their Palawan tour is a ride to a banca through an underground river. The calm river water of the St. Paul Subterranean Underground River is cool and relaxing. Prepare yourself as you begin your banca ride into the underground river to the breathtaking sights of the stalactites and stalagmites that are formed around the cave. Some of these awesome formations are of religious-like shapes.

Because of the unlimited beautiful places to visit in Palawan, this Island considerably gives the Philippines a pride of recognition to be one of the most visited places by tourists.

About the Author

Peter Garant is writing Philippines travel articles for both his Puerto Princesa site and his Palawan Island tourist guide.

Palawan - The Island Paradise

Few places in the Philippines, indeed in all of Southeast Asia, can compare with Palawan. Throughout the years it has remained consistently one of the top tourist spots in the continent.

Among the numerous attractions of the island, nothing is perhaps nire enthralling than its sheer bio diversity. Not only are there all kinds of creatures in the island, but over 200 of them are unique to it. The pheasant peacock, bearcat and ant eater are just among the species that can only be seen on the island. There are over 500 different types of butterflies in Palawan alone.

Moreover, the flora is just as extensive, with over 1,500 plants and flowers. Unlike in other parts of the country where deforestation is rampant, the forest cover in Palawan is still over 50%, in large part due to conservation efforts on the part of both the local government and its citizens.

There are an endless number of nature spots in Palawan worth checking out, several of which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among the most prominent is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Its most outstanding feature is the river which runs in an underground cave. The river will then go up and converge with the open sea. This connection has made it a natural breeding ground for an entire ecosystem.

The Tubbataha Reef Marine Park is a reserve encompassing the south and north atoll reefs. The coral reef is full of unique and diverse marine life and at the same time the atoll is home to other types of animals including sea turtles.

While tourism plays a vital role in the economy of Palawan, it is not the only source of income of the province. With its well protected environment, it has become a great source of all kinds of fish. Nearly half of the fish supply in Metro Manila stems from Palwan. Another important source of income is logging. However, the continuous replanting in the province ensures that the forests remain strong.

Other vital industries in Palawan include the mining and production of such resources as sugar, coconut, corn and more. These products are shipped throughout the country, providing income for the province.

Equally as diverse are the people and the culture; there are several tribes and minorities that still flourish, including the Batak, Molbog and Palawano groups. Aside from these tribes, there is also a significant Muslim segment in the population and of course, several other peoples from all over the country have made the island province their home.

The mix of peoples in Palawan has resulted in a growing diversity in the religious practices as well. Although the bulk of the population are still Roman Catholics (as is most of the Philippines), there are a growing number of Protestants in the province, including Methodists, Seventh Day Adventists and Mormons. Other Christian sects like the Iglesia ni Cristo and El Shaddai can be found there.

In the southern part are located those who adhere to Islam, and there are also Buddhists in various locations, due mostly to the number of Vietnamese who have settled on the island.

About the Author

Peter Garant is writing Philippines Travel Articles for both Palawan Board and Puerto Princesa Board.

Romancing Kidapawan, Cotabato Philippines

The clouds here in Kidapawan City were as gloomy as my feelings the day I arrived here a few weeks ago. I dreaded the day when I finally have to go to Kidapawan for my nursing review. It was supposed to be in Davao. My friends and I already made arrangements for our review in Davao City. But fate intervened. Our school administrators decided that we will be having our review at Kidapawan, in spite of our vehement protests. I had no qualms on the choice of the review center. After all, East West Educational Specialists is a reputable review center with an impeccable track record. But Kidapawan City as the review venue was another story.

When one hasn't made a visit to a particular place, one normally has a biased on that place usually basing on what one has read about the place or has heard about it. The same can be said about me and Kidapawan. I always thought of it as parochial and quite rural. From Cotabato going to Davao, Kidapawan has always been a sort of stop-over. Its fruits had always beckoned us to have a second look at Kidapawan. But that's as far as it goes. All had in mind about Kidapawan are its fruits. Ergo, it's a City of fruits only with nothing else to offer.

My biases were reinforced on the day we arrived here in Kidapawan City. Like I said earlier, the weather did not cooperate. It was raining heavily. So all I saw was the pension house in which we will be billeted for the rest of our stay here. I wish I could say that our dormitory is everything it should be. But I learned already that in life one cannot have what one wishes. To be happy, a great French philosopher Fr. Marie-Dominique Philippe has said again and again, one has to learn to accept in stride what life has to offer and make the best out of it. So with that in mind, I was ready to embrace my life here in Kidapawan for the next five months.

Colegio de Kidapawan is a community college privately owned and funded with all the modern facilities of a school one normally finds in a much cosmopolitan city. I chuckled upon learning that the school is even a wi-fi zone. Their nursing laboratory and library were equally impressive. What made a definite mark was when I noticed that the students were quite disciplined. From where I came from students were as boisterous as anywhere else. JV and Abby, two of my closest friends, even noted that the environment is quite remarkable.

We were given a warm welcome by their dean. She even told us to approach her for any queries and problems we might encounter. After all, she was our clinical coordinator back in Cotabato City. The students of Colegio are determined and hardworking. My fellow reviewees from Cotabato City could learn so much from them. Our seatmates Chari, Richard and Sheila even became friends. They told us where to dine, shop and everything else. When I had questions all I have to do is to text them and they were more than willing to answer them. I get inspired from them to study harder when I see them review with all their heart.

That is why I believe that Kidapawan is destined to become a great city, far greater even than Cotabato City. It is not because of its annual fruit festival or even its many springs and other tourist attractions, but its people, who are warm, hospitable, friendly, resilient, determined, honest and hardworking, are the one making it a city to beat. Come to think of it I wouldn't mind settling here for good.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anthony_Michael_Gagni

Hotel and Resort Reservation in the Philippines

The main function of any travel agency is to, of course, act as an agent. This includes selling tickets and travel products, reservations, and so on, on behalf of one or several suppliers. Travel agents generally work with no charge to the traveler him or herself. Rather, the travel agent takes a small commission from the overall cost. Again, this isn't added on top of the sale or anything like that. Rather, their commission is taken out of the advertised price.

So why go through a travel agent? Well, besides the simplicity and convenience, the main draw is that travel agents receive tickets at significant discounts, packages and many more. JNJ Travel is one of the best Hotel and Resort Reservation in the Philippines. JNJ Travel Services is the 'Philippines Trusted Online Travel Agency'. Book online and reserve your favorite Philippine Hotels and Resorts for your special Philippine vacation!. JNJ Travels is an Online Hotel Reservation in the Philippines.

Today the tourism and travel industry made a lot of impact in many countries, specially for those countries who are called as developing countries. One of those countries that has many tourist sites and attractions and among one of the developing countries in the world is the Philippines.

The Philippines is the world's 12th most populous country, with a population of about 90 million people. Its national economy is the 47th largest in the world, with an estimated 2008 gross domestic product (GDP) of over US$ 168.6 billion (nominal). There are more than 11 million overseas Filipinos worldwide, about 11% of the population.

The Philippines provides a high environment of natural resources in areas such as agriculture, nature, and minerals. It has fertile lands, diverse flora, and fauna, extensive coastlines, and rich mineral deposits.Endemic species include the tamaraw of Mindoro, and the tarsier of Bohol. The Philippines have a lack of predators, with the exception of snakes, such as pythons, cobras, and birds of prey, such as the national bird, known as the Philippine eagle. Other native animals include the palm civet cat, the Mouse deer, the Visayan warty pig, and several species of bats.

Rainforests boasts an array of flora, including several types of orchids, and rafflesia. The narra is considered as the most important type of hardwood while banyan trees or the balete. The islands' major crops include rice, corn, sugarcane, coconut, abaca, and tobacco. Rice is the most important source of food along with corn. The coconut, mango, watermelon, and other native fruits are an important contributor to the nation's income.

Here are some attractions you might want to see when vacationing in the Philippines.

Banaue Rice Terraces

The Ifugaos built the Banaue Rice Terraces more than 2,000 years ago. It is about 5,000 feet above sea level and covers about 400 square miles of mountainside. This beautiful engineering of mankind is very unique in every sense of the word. They believed that the Batad ancestors of Ifugao carved this "staircase to the sky" with minimal tools and mainly used their hands to put the walls up one stone at a time.

Chocolate Hills in Bohol

These perfectly cone-shaped hills are a subject of debate whether it is an act of God or if they are manmade. There are about 1,268 hills and they are very much uniformed.During the rainy season, the hills are actually green. However, venture to them during the hot days of summer and they turn into a chocolate color-hence the name.

Intramuros in Metro Manila

Intramuros used to be the center of political, religious and military power during the Spanish era. This walled city in Manila was built on the ruins of a Malay settlement some 400 years ago. It was home for thousands of Spanish colonists and their families during those times. The walls suffered a tremendous damage during WWII. The Philippine government restored and reconstructed Intramuros in 1980 and it's now a major tourists attraction in Manila.

Try JNJ Travel for a nice and reliable service for your vacation.

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Philippine Travel Packages for Different Destinations

The Philippines is one of the top vacation destinations in the world. The country boasts of many destinations located in different parts of the archipelago. Tourists can hop from one island to the other in order to enjoy scenic beaches or enjoy fun activities such as diving, snorkeling, festivals, or experience the beauty of natural and historical wonders. Philippine travel packages are ubiquitous all year round, so tourists and locals are not in short supply of travel destinations.

Different agencies have different approaches to attract customers to their travel packages. They try to beat the prices of other agencies. In the end however, what matters is not always the price per se, but the destination and amenities relative to the package price. So, when choosing from a variety of Philippine travel packages, you need to consider your preferences. And, don't just choose any package that is offered to you. Do your own research. Post questions on travel forums asking for the best deals and the safest destination or route for your travel. Or, if you know someone in the area, it is best to ask them for their firsthand knowledge.

Philippine travel packages are usually grouped into areas of top tourist spots in the country . This makes for convenient travel because you do not have to transfer from one island without first enjoying the scenery and activities in the island you are currently staying. It is also ideal to choose a travel package that includes plane tickets and hotel bookings. If the place can only be reached by boat, it is also best to inquire first if the a round trip fare in included. This reduces the hassle of buying your plane or boat tickets and reserving your hotel room.

With many travel agencies offering packages at the lowest possible price, travelers have a lot of options to choose from. Most packages nowadays can cater to budget travelers. There are also packages for those who prefer comfort over budget. But, no matter what type of travel package you prefer, visiting the Philippines is always a delight to the senses.

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INFOHUB offers comprehensive resource on Philippine Travel and Tourism for key holiday destinations in the Philippines like Baguio City.

January is Holy Child Festival Month- Sinulog

Sinulog Viva Pet Senior!!

The month of the January in the Philippines is devoted to festivities honoring the Holy Child. The Filipino term is called "Santo Niño" in which it is common to them.

To give readers and viewers as a background, Holy Child started during the time of the Spanish colonization. The image of the Holy Child has a very colorful chapter in the country's religious history, which dates back to 1521 when the Portugese explorer Ferdinand Magellan accidentally discovered the archipelago in the Far East.

After Magellan was slain by Lapu-Lapu in the Battle of Mactan, not much as heard about the image except that the Cebuanos worshipped the Santo Niño as a "rain God" and dance the sinulog to the beat of drums interspersed with shouts of Pit Senyor which means Hail The Lord!

When Miguel Lopez de Legaspi arrived 40 years later and conquered the islands for the Spanish crown, the Cebuanos fled to the hills after razing their homes. In one of the burned houses, a Spanish soldier was said to have found the statue of the Santo Niño hidden in a large wooden chest spared by the fire.

Legazpi later named Cebu the "City of the Most Holy Name of Jesus" in honor of the religious icon. It was enshrined in a church built in its honor, which later became a basilica. Until now, this Church still exist and a strong foundation with non-stop devotees.

Some of the people believe once they believe in Catholic faith from Holy Child, they can heal and save lives but some Catholic leaders believe in Virgin Mary as the Mother of God. This is more on faith in the month of January.

In Dumaguete, there are several Holy Child scattered in a different barangays. The most famous Holy Child is found in Mangga located in the part of Meciano road in which many devotees are going there bringing candles to save their faith. This event happens in the month January, in which that is their beginning festival for their barrio. May is another area for their celebration area that is exclusive for their respective barangay.

This article supposed to be is in the editorial level but the don't worry for the readers and viewers, this is categorized by news because it has an information to know or discover. This is sub-categorized by free journalism because I believe that there is freedom of the press.

With the Holy Child's more than 400 years of cultural linkage with our history, it is common that we celebrate the various feasts in His honor that are being celebrated throughout this month of January.

The most popular Holy Child related celebrated though is Aklan which is called Ati-Atihan festival, which is now being rerplicated throughout the country during this month of January and during town fiestas.It's origins can be traced to the 13th century when ten datus which are known as chieftains from Borneo landed in the Province of Antique to purchased the island of Panay, where Aklan is included, that is from Marikudo, the island's Ati which is their aborigine ruler. The deal was closed after Marikudo accepted a golden salakot which is the gourd headgear and a golden necklace for his wife, Maniwantiwan. After the purchase, the warring tribes of Aklan ended their protracted feud and celebrated the event by dancing to the rhythmic beat of gongs.

This is very common in Cebu, Iloilo, Dumaguete, Manila, and other major places in the Philippines about the festival of Holy Child.

About the Author

I am Management Marketing graduate of Saint Paul College of Dumaguete which is now Saint Paul University of Dumaguete.As of now, I am residing in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, Philippines. At present, I am continue writing any articles in which, people are looking for the things they like to see or to discover.