Batangas, the Land of the Rolling Hills and Wide Shorelands

As quoted by the writers of yore, Batangas is the “Land of the Rolling Hills and Wide Shorelands”. This is due to its picturesque combination of plains and mountains and globally notable beaches and diving sites. It is a first class province in the Philippines situated on the southwestern part of Luzon in the CALABARZON region. It is the home of the world’s smallest active volcano which is Taal Volcano with an elevation of 600 meters. It is bordered by the provinces of Cavite and Laguna to the north, Quezon to the east, Mindoro to the south across the Verde Island Passages, and to the west is South China Sea.

Access to Batangas is very easy either by land or sea. It is approximately two to three hours drive from Manila via South Luzon Expressway. Buses like Jac Liner, Jam Transit, Tritran, BLTB, and Alps Transit have regular travel schedule bound for Batangas. People coming from Visayas and Mindanao can access through the Batangas Port via Montenegro Shipping Lines, Starlite Shipping, and Supercat.

The province of Batangas is gifted with excellent diving spots and breathtaking beaches. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Batangas are as follows:

1. Taal Volcano and Taal Lake are the must see tourist spots in Batangas. The volcano has a water-filled crater and sits on an island in the center of Taal Lake, which geologists called as an ancient caldera. Its crater is often termed as the “lake within a lake”. The Volcano Island is also ideal for trekking.

2. Gerthel Beach in the town of Lobo is one of the finest white sand beaches within the area with a gradually sloping ocean floor.

3. Submarine Garden consists of living corals near the shore that can be clearly seen during the early mornings when water is clear and the tide is low.

4. Mahabang Buhangin Beach in San Juan is a white sand beach with a living colony of corals that lies in a cave.

5. Hugon Beach is highly recommended for snorkeling and swimming due to its sea bottom that has sudden drop-off of about ten meters and covered with smooth rocks and white sand.

6. Tingga Falls in Daang Ibaan is a 30 feet high cascading waterfalls with a man-made pool at its base that is best for swimming.

7. Munting Buhangin Beach in Nasugbu is located in a cove and offers a fine pearly white sand beach ideal for picnic.

8. Natipunan Beach can also be found in Nasugbu and similar to Munting Buhangin Beach except that it is located in another cove.

9. Matabungkay Beach is a two-kilometer long white sand beach facing China Sea and is perfect for water sports such as swimming, boating, yachting, fishing, and skin diving.

10. Mount Maculot is one of the highest and prominent mountains located in Cuenca. It is considered the favorite sites of mountain trekkers because it has several tunnels built by the Japanese soldiers during World War II.

11. Anilao is the world-known diving spot that is very ideal for observing marine life and outstanding for macro-photography.

12. Calijon Falls in Malvar has two major falls with water flows that look like a bridal gown and two smaller ones in front of a cave.

13. Mainit Hot Spring in Baronage Pulang Bato has a breathtaking view of the huge mountain lush with thick vegetation.

Other natural wonders that will surely make your visit worthy are the Tinalunan, Cueva Sitio, Ilijan Falls, Sepok Point, Bulalacao Falls, Punta Fuego, Culebra Island, Mabalahibong Manok Island, Balayan Bay, Ligpo Island, Cathedral Marine Park Sanctuary, Caban Cove, Layag-layag Reef, Sombrero Island, Shark Cave, Batalan, Merriel’s Rock, Papaya Point, Verde Island, and Maricaban.

Aside from being known as the home producer of “balisong” and “piña barong” (pineapple suit), Batangas is also known historically as the “Cradle of Noble Heroes”. Some historical landmarks that are very interesting to see are the Museo ng Katipunan in Lipa City, Apolinario Mabini Shrine in Tanauan, Museo ng Batangas at Aklatang Panlalawigan, Marcela Mariño Agoncillo Museum and Monument, Leon Apacible Historical Landmark in Taal, Ilagan Ancestral House, Basilica of San Martin de Tours, and Church of Our Lady of Caysasay.

For those who are after diving adventures, you can also try other notable diving sites in Batangas such as Twin Islands, Twin East, South East Reef, Awash Reef, Fuego Point, Lo-oc Bay, Kinabagbagan Bay, Cowrie Bay, Hamilo Cove Wreck, The Pinnacles and Island, Fortune Island, The Blue Holes, Simo Banks, and Limbones Islands.

Aklan, haven of Boracay

If you want to experience fine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, Aklan is the most recommended place for you. It is one of the oldest province in the Philippines that is best known for its “Ati-atihan Festival” aside from its famous world renowned paradise, the Boracay Island.

The province of Aklan is considered as a second class province in the Philippines that can be found in the Western Visayas. It is proud for its high geographic diversity, ranging from pearly white sand beaches, world class mangroves, panoramic mountainous landscapes, and natures’ wonders.

Aklan can be reached in many different means and routes. It is accessible from Iloilo City, approximately by two and a half hours drive via buses and vans that are stationed at the Tagbak Terminal in Jaro, Iloilo City. It can also be reached via direct flights of Asian Spirit Airlines, Seair Philippines Airways, Cebu Pacific Airlines, and Philippine Airlines. It will only take around forty-five minutes to travel by air from Manila to Aklan. But if you feel like to experience adventurous trip, you can try the Ferry boat from Manila to Caticlan or Dumaguit, which are near Kalibo, Aklan via MBRS Shipping Lines, WG&A and Negros Navigation. It will consume approximately seventeen hours of travel.

Some of the exciting tourist destinations in Aklan are the following:

1. Boracay Island is one of the premier tourist destinations in the Philippines. It is dubbed as one of the best beaches in the world by numerous travel magazines and surveys. Visiting the Philippines will not be complete without spending some time in this delightful seven kilometer “powdery white sand paradise”, azure waters, coral reefs, and rare shells.

2. Bakhawan Eco Park is a multi-awarded mangrove reforestation which was hailed as the “Best in Asia”. It is found in New Buswang, Kalibo and known for its rickety bamboo footbridge and wonderful sights and sounds of paradise wild ducks in its waterway.

3. Museo it Akean is a famous landmark in Aklan which is considered a repository of antiques and other artifacts that represents the historical and cultural affluence of Akeanon. It can be found in the provincial capital which is Kalibo.

4. Jawili Falls is a natural wonder with seven basin cascading waterfalls.

5. Nabas is a place for natural cold springs.

6. Buruanga Town is known for its five exciting caves that are ready to be conquered by adventurous travelers.

7. Libacao is the best place for an enjoyable white water rafting.

8. New Washington is a much visited place because it hosts Sampaguita Gardens which is recognized as a landmark in the Travel & Trade Industry.

9. Freedom Shrine is a landmark dedicated to the nineteen martyrs of Aklan who revolted against the Spain.

10. Kalantiaw Shrine is a historical landmark that was once the seat of government of Rajah Bendahara Kalantiaw III who promulgated the famous “Code of Kalantiaw”.

Aklan is truly a haven of nature’s wonders. Other exciting places to visit are Ingus-ingus Hill, Agtawagon Hill, Manduyog Hill and Aklan State University (ASU), Ob-ob Hill. Tinagong Dagat (Hidden Sea), Tigayon Hill, Ignito Cave (elephant cave), Liloan Citrus Farm, Tigis Falls, Basang and Hurom-hurom Cold Springs, Agnaga Falls, Tigwati-an Island (Crystal Cove), Tulingon Cave, Fatima Hills, Pink Sister Convent, Guinsimbahan in Malinao, Campo Verde, and Nabaoy Reforestation.

Camiguin Island, the Born of Fire

Known for its “pear-shaped” volcanic island, Camiguin is dubbed as “Born of Fire” because of its seven volcanoes unmatched anywhere else in Southeast Asia. One of its volcanoes is the unpredictably active Mt. Hibok-hibok which erupted in 1951. And because of this eruption, Camiguin’s beaches are covered with pebbles and dark sand but have resulted to this spectacular island full of natural wonders and historical riches.

It is the smallest province in Northern Mindanao and composed of five towns, namely, Mambajao, which is the capital town, Mahinog, Guinsiliban, Sagay, and Catarman. Geographically, it is in the southern part of the Philippines located approximately 90 kilometers north of Cagayan de Oro City. It is bounded by Bohol Sea to the north, to the west by Macajalar Bay, to the southeast by Gingoog Bay, and by Butuan Bay to the east.

Going to Camiguin island can be done via direct flights of Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific Airlines and Air Philippines from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City at approximately one hour and 20 minutes flying time or from Cebu to Cagayan de Oro City at about 30 minutes flight. You can also take exciting ferry trips from the North Harbor via WG&A, Negros Navigation, and Sulpicio Lines to Cagayan de Oro City port that usually takes about twenty eight to thirty six hours travel time. From Cagayan de Oro City, you can ride a bus trip for Balingoan at terminal located at the Agora Market. From Balingoan, take a ferry boat bound for Camiguin Island that will consumed approximately one hour. Another option is to take a three hour ferry ride from Cagayan de Oro port to Guinsiliban via M/V Yuhum.

Aside from its rare seven volcanoes, Camiguin Island is very rich in natural wonders that can please any of its visitors. Some of the most recommended places to visits are the following:

1. Remains of the Catarman Church composed mainly of ruins of adobe walls, belfry and convent that serve as the mute witnesses to the wrath of nature, the devastating volcanic holocaust in 1871.

2. Cross Marker and Sunken Cemetery in Bonbon, Catarman is a famous underwater cemetery which is submerged after a volcanic eruption in 1871. It is marked with a huge cross and gravestones were visible during the low tide.

3. Philvocs Observatory Station is a site that showcases a breathtaking view of the island. It houses a seismograph that is used to monitor the activity of Mount Hibok-hibok.

4. Tanguines Lagoon is a man-made lagoon in Benoni, Mahinog. It is a perfect place to convene with nature due to its mantle of limpid waters, rocky cliffs and huge boulders standing like sentinels, gently rolling hills with peaks covered by creamy clouds and a perpetually restive sea that provides visitors with a sense of serenity and peace.

5. Katibawasan Falls is a 250 feet majestic clear stream of water to a rock pool surrounded by ground orchids, wild ferns, trees and boulders. Its cold water provides a refreshing summer splash to all vacationers.

6. Tuasan Falls offers fun and excitement on its trek to the 25 meter high wild and mighty falls because one will have to go through a very scenic hike passing through the quaint Barrio of Mainit before being refreshed under the thunderous falls.

7. Binangawan Falls in Sagay has several miniature and gigantic waterfalls gushing through majestic granite stones that converge in one main pool of crystal water, covered with luscious virgin vegetation.

8. Tangub Hot Spring is a volcanic spring by the sea with water temperatures turns cold, hot and lukewarm as the tide changes from high, low and medium. 9. Macao Cold Spring is one of Camiguin’s idyllic springs with cool splash of crystal blue water.

10. Mount Hibok-hibok is the only active volcano in the island with a crater lake at the peak that offers an awesome view of the islands of Cebu, Negros and Bohol.

Camiguin Island is definitely a virtual paradise with its uniqueness that lies in its various masterpiece of landscape, pristine natural environment and rural setting. It has been considered by Department of Tourism as one of the Top 25 tourist destinations in the Philippines and ranked number seven diving spot in the world.

Other amazing places to visit are Mantigue Island, Old Volcano (unique underwater lava formation), Ardent Hot Spring, White Island, Jicduf Shoal, Burias Shoal (dive spot), Sto. Nino Cold Spring, Old Sto. Rosario Church, Via Cruzes, Centennial House in Mambajao, and Mount Ilihan. Other reason to visit Camiguin Island is its year-round Lanzones Festival that highlights newly harvested sweet lanzones, traditional street dancing, drum circles and colorful ethnic costumes.

Baguio, the Summer Capital of the Philippines

If you’re looking for a summer get-away in the Philippines, the City of Pines that lies on plateau is the best place to be with. Baguio City is located within the province of Benguet, and it is also known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines” because of its cool climate, fresh foggy hills, green panoramic view, and lovely flowers. It can be reached approximately, six to seven hours drive from Manila via North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and four to five hours drive from Manila via Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). Access to Baguio City is possible via Kennon Road, Naguilian Road or Marcos Highway. It can also be reached via Asian Spirit Airlines that flies daily from Manila to Loakan Airport in Baguio which will only take fifty minutes flight.

Baguio City which is also known as the “Salad Bowl of Luzon” remains the home to many beautiful spots and prime tourist destination area in North Luzon. It is very ideal place for relaxation, conferences and seminars, retreats, family vacation, and honeymoon nest. It also serves as the gateway to the Cordillera Mountains, the place of the world famous Banaue Rice Terraces of the Ifugao.

The City of Pines offers variety of attractions to its visitors either man made, religious, cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Some of its famous tourist highlights are the following:

1. Botanical Gardens which is also called the Igorot village.

2. Burnham Park, the oldest park in Baguio where you can do biking, skating or simply strolling with soothing backdrop of colorful flowers.

3. Camp John Hay, a former American base that has excellent cottages, golf courses, bowling lanes, dining places, and natural ambience.

4. Mines View Park with breathtaking views of mountain ranges and was once considered as Baguio’s mineral bowl.

5. Wright Park which is popular for its kiddy horse rides and long stairway that leads to the “Pool of Pines”.

6. Baguio Cathedral, one of the popular landmarks in Baguio with twin spines and one hundred steps.

7. Bell Church with cluster of temples located on the border of Baguio City and Trinidad Valley.

8. Lourdes Grotto, a religious shrine with an image of the Lady of Lourdes. Also known for its 252 steps leading to the shrine.

9. Asin Hot Spring, a swimming pool resort surrounded by thermal springs and with several hanging bridges.

10. Kennon Road, the shortest intestine-like road with the most scenic highway. It is also popular because of the Lion’s head that can be seen along the way.

11. The Mansion, an elegantly structure white building intended for the Philippine Presidents.

12. Philippine Military Academy, the premier military institution.

13. Woodcarvers’ Village, a place for Ifugao’s beautifully carved items that were sold at very low prices.

14. Saint Louis Filigree Shop, a handicraft shop specializing in silver jewelry and other filigree products.

15. Tam-awan Village, an artificial village that showcases how a local village in the highlands look like.

Baguio City is dubbed as the “City of Flowers” because of its famous “Panagbenga Festival” that attracts both local and foreign visitors. It is a huge parade of flowers that showcases beautifully arranged flower-covered floats. Other recommended tourist places in Baguio are the Teachers Camp, Eater Weaving Room, Baguio Sunshine Park, Baguio Mountain Provinces Museum, Mt. Sto. Tomas, Mt. Kabuyao, Baguio Grand Mosque, Baguio Country Club, and Baguio City Market.

Angeles City, the Entertainment Capital of Central Luzon

Among the places in the Philippines, Angeles City is the one of the most recommended place for travelers who are looking for different travel adventures in terms of shopping and entertainment, extra ordinary cuisines, historical values, and business opportunities. In spite of the destructive eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991, Angeles City which is formerly known as “Kuliat” was able to surpass and faced the challenges. It is now known as a first class highly urbanized city in the Philippines.

Point of entry to Angeles City can be done in different routes: through north expressway, you can enter via Olongapo-Gapan Road, Pandan or Dau; through Mc-Arthur Hi-way via San Fernando; and through SCTEX or Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway via Clark Special Economic Zone (former Clark Air Base).

It is known before as the “City of Angels and Sinners” during the active times of Clark Air Base. But as years passed by, people from Angeles City have proven that they can stand on their own and be known for their effort and hardship that made the city’s economy to boom. It is now dubbed as the “Entertainment Capital” of Central Luzon. This is due to the rapid development and newly established entertainment infrastructure within the city and because of its 24-hours active life. At daytime, plenty of fun and shopping spots such as big malls and duty-free shops can be found around the city. And at nighttime, active bars, clubs and casinos will glitter your nightlife until before the sun starts to rise again.

City of Angeles is also known internationally for its extra ordinary cuisines. Pampangenos are known to be “inborn chefs” for they have that extinct talent in cooking tasty, delicious dishes and delicacies. A lot of places to eat are available for both local and international cuisine. And if you’re a taste bud adventurer, going to this place will surely give you one hundred percent satisfaction.

Historically, Angeles City also has its contribution. The old Pamintuan residence was the seat of the country’s first republic under the leadership of the Philippine’s first president Emilio Aguinaldo from May to July 1899 and becomes the central headquarter for Major General Arthur Mac Arthur Jr., the father of General Douglas Mac Arthur. It is now the place of the Central Bank of the Philippines in Central Luzon. Other historical spots are: the Salakot Arch (native hat) which become the landmark of Angeles City from 1902 to 1979; the Fort Stotsenburg which is named after Colonel John M. Stotsenburg, a captain of the 6th U.S. Cavalry is now called the “Parade Ground” inside Clark Special Economic Zone; the Camalig which is built in 1840, was used as grain storehouse and now converted into Armando’s Pizza and Camalig Restaurant where live bands and acoustic sounds performs; and many other old houses and buildings that made an important role during the Spanish and American regime.

Angeles City is also the most popular place in Pampanga because it is considered as the center of business and industrial opportunities for both local and international companies. It is also the place where you can find Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, the former Clark International Airport which is believed to be bigger than NAIA or Ninoy Aquino International Airport. It also has numerous luxury hotels, golf courses, villas, and resorts.

It also showcases festivals that were known not only locally but internationally like the Phillippine International Hot-Air Balloon Fiesta which is held annually between January to February; the La Naval Fiesta which is celebrated every second Sunday of October in commemoration of the Virgin of the Holy Rosary, whose intercession saw the victory of the Spanish fleet over the Dutch invaders; Tigtigan Terakan Keng Dalan (Music and Dancing in the Streets) is held every last Friday and Saturday of October, and considered as the biggest street party; Apu Fiesta (Fiestang Apu) is held on the last Friday of October to venerate the supposedly miraculous image of Jesus Christ lying in the sepulcher; and the Sisig Festival that showcases the Kapampangan dish called “sisig”.

Other places to visit are the Nayong Filipino, an outdoor museum that houses miniatures of the country’s tourist destinations; Clearwater Country Club that offers fun and leisure experience; Kapampangan Center that showcases Pampanga history; trekking sites on Mount Pinatubo; and other fun and exciting places that will make your stay at Angeles City truly unforgettable.

Bohol, the Place Endowed with 1400 Caves

Bohol is an island province in the Philippines gifted with mountainous interior, one of which is the world’s famous Chocolate Hills. It is located in the Central Visayas region, with Tagbilaran City as its capital. It is considered the tenth largest island of the Philippines. To its west is Cebu, to the northeast is Leyte, and to the south is Mindanao.

The island of Bohol can be reached via air flights of Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific from Manila to Tagbilaran with approximate travel time of one to two hours. From Mactan airport in Cebu, it will take 25 minutes to reach Tagbilaran City. Other options are to travel by sea via WG&A Super Ferry, Lite Shipping, Trans Asia Shipping Lines, Weesam Express, and Supercat with travel time of approximately two to three hours.

Bohol is a tropical haven of natural beauty. Aside from its world-class numerous mounds of limestone formation, its coastline are abound by gentle coves and white sand beaches. It may not be as famous as Boracay, but is well-known to divers and snorkelers as an awesome paradise. Some beautiful places in Bohol that are recommended as tourist destinations are as follows:

1. Chocolate Hills in Carmen is the most popular attraction that consists of 1268 almost-uniformed hills. They are covered with grass, which, at the end of the dry season, turns chocolate brown.

2. Panglao Island in southwest of Tagbilaran City is a famous diving spot. It is also the place where you can find the second smallest primate in the world which is the Philippine Tarsier. It also houses the most beautiful beaches of Bohol namely Aloha Beach, Dumaluan Beach, Bikini Beach, Momo Beach, and Doljo Beach.

3. Mag-Aso Falls is a walking distance from Antequera. The water is cool and often creates a mist in humid mornings which can hide the falls.

4. Inambacan Falls is a cascading waterfall in Antequera town which is proposed to be a source of drinking and irrigation water.

5. Kawasan Falls can be found in Balilihan.

6. Dimiao Twin Falls is an ideal place for trekking and picnic.

7. Busay Falls are the destination of the floating restaurant trips.

8. Hinagdanan Cave in Panglao is one of the approximately 1400 caves in Bohol. It has large number of stalactites and stalagmites that leads to the underground cavern that contains a pond.
9. Dagohoy Cave in Danao is the most famous of these caves for it is considered a historical landmark. It is believed to be the hiding place of Boholano patriot Dagohoy, who started a rebellion against Spain in 1744.

10. Hagakgak Cave is considered undisturbed because of its wet and muddy passage.

11. Inambacan Cave is often filled with flowing water and contains some small stalactites and stalagmites.

12. Sudlon Cave is the largest cave in the province located in a lovely mountain environment that serves to be a hide-out for a huge population of bats.

13. Bingag Cave is a big cave with several compartments, with passages so low that one has to stoop low in order to pass through. It is also the habitat for rare gold fishes.

Aside from these natural wonders, a lot of activities can be done in Bohol like snorkeling and diving to witness the spectacular Bohol’s coral reefs and fishes which are very rich in life. You can also do bird watching in the natural forest of Olango Island or Dolphin and whale watching on Bohol Sea.

Vigan, the Old World City

Vigan City is known as the “Old World City” because of its unique cobblestone streets and architecture. It is considered a third class city and the capital city of Ilocos Sur and the seat of the provincial government. It is situated on the western coast of Luzon, facing the South China Sea. It can be easily reached via land or air transport. It will consume approximately seven to ten hours drive from Manila to Vigan via Partas Bus Co., Dominion Bus Lines, Viron Transit, and St. Joseph/Aniceto Transit. Other buses like Philippine Rabbit Bus Line, Farinas Transit, Maria de Leon, and RCJ Transit are bound for Laoag but passes by Vigan. If you wish to travel by air, take Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific Airlines from Manila to Laoag International Airport.

The City of Vigan is described by its local and foreign visitors as a place where “time stood still” and a “place like no other” because it was able to preserve the uniqueness of its historic townscape. With its centuries-old edifices, is a breathing reminder of what was once a royal city. Some landmarks and tourist attractions that you can visit are the following:

1. The Meztizo District or Heritage Village is a best representation of the Phillipines’ colonial past with its numerous ancestral house mixed with local, Asian and Spanish architectural styles.

2. St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral which is known as “earthquake baroque” because of its unique design intended to minimize earthquake damage.

3. Archbishop’s Residence is located adjacent to the Cathedral. It is the oldest archbishop’s residence still in use in the Philippines.

4. Plaza Salcedo is the site of resistance leader Gabriela Silang’s public hanging in 1763.

5. Plaza Burgos is a favorite hang-out for locals and often used for staging major public events.

6. Ayala Museum is the former house of Father Jose Burgos which is now a place for Ilocano artifacts, weapons, kitchen utensils, basketry, costumes, jewellery and Burgos Memorabilia.

7. Baluarte is the governor’s fortress that features a mini zoo with exotic animals.

8. Vigan’s Pagburnayan is where hand pottery is done.

9. St. Augustine Church is also known as Bantay Church and Bell tower with a belfry that provides a breathtaking view of the town.

Other interesting places to visit in Vigan that will truly make your stay worthy are Leona Florentino House and Statue, Mindoro Beach and Playa De Oro Resort, and Vigan Tourist Park at Mira Hills. You can also visit the town plaza and the marketplace to savor the local flavors of Ilocano cuisines.