Why Its More Fun To Travel In the Philippines
By Dana Brown, 11th Apr 2012 | Follow this author
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Posted in WikinutTravelAsiaPhilippinesManila & Around
Known as the pearl of Asia, the Philippines with its 7,107 islands is just the place to be this summer, where every island is an adventure. With its rich culture, warm friendly people, and God given wonders of nature, you are in for a ride.
Below is your guide to the five best trips in the Philippines.
- Palawan.
- 1) The Underground River
- 2) The Tubbataha Reef
- Bicol
- 3. Donsol, Sorsogon.
- Gentle Giants
- 4) Caramoan Island
- Accommodations
- 5) Boracay
- More about Boracay
Palawan.
Home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites you can find two of the best travel destinations here - The Tubbataha Reef and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park or commonly known as the Underground River, which was recently chosen as one of the New 7 wonders of the World making it one of the most popular vacation spots in the country if not in the world.
1) The Underground River
It contains major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, which take millions of years to form and several large cave chambers which are considered as one of the largest in the world. It is also reputed to be one of the longest underground rivers on record. The area is situated in what is known as a “coral triangle” where rich biodiversity in the world can be found making this a well-liked destination for divers as well.
Interesting Facts: National Geographic Traveller Magazine declared it as the Best Island Destination in East and Southeast Asia in 2007.
Website: www.palawan.gov.ph
2) The Tubbataha Reef
Still in Palawan is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the only marine natural park in the Philippines and considered as a diver's paradise. Home to one of the best coral reefs in the world makes this an ideal vacation to those who want to experience nature at its finest.
Interesting Facts: Habitat to more than 1000 marine species mostly endangered. It can rival that of the Great Barrier Reef - with its 300 coral species and 400 fish species.
Website: www.palawan.gov.ph
Bicol
One of the coolest destinations in the country because of its short distance from Manila. It's a great stop for a quick weekend getaway or a long vacation. Either way here are two of the must-see places in the region.
3. Donsol, Sorsogon.
Experience the wildlife encounter of a lifetime, as you swim and interact with Whale Sharks! It is dubbed as the “Whale Shark Capital of the World” join the many thrilled and satisfied tourists as they watch and swim with these gentle giants. On a good day you can see more than 10 sharks, an event rarely seen and experienced anywhere in the world.
Gentle Giants
Though considered as the largest fishes in the world they are gentle giants they only eat plankton and krill and they are playful and harmless. They seem to meet and stay and sojourn in Donsol, Sorsogon during the months of October, November and December, especially from February to May. Where they go after is unknown to the fishermen but during these seasons the said gentle giants are guaranteed to return every time.
Warning though that the local government implements very strict rules to protect these giants, like “no riding or touching” or maintaining a certain distance so as not to impede the natural movement of the sharks. Or you just might be band forever from the place. So make sure you are aware of the Code of Conduct expected during your whale interaction. Check this website for the complete list of rules and even places to stay, how to get there and tour packages-http://www.sorsogontourism.com/whale_shark_interaction_guide.htm
4) Caramoan Island
Just a recently discovered bliss of nature but is quickly growing popular amongst tourists. This haven started attracting attention when the French Survivor TV show started to shoot at the place (Source: aswetravel.com) and other local celebrities start to mention it as the Secret Paradise.
Caramoan also boast of fine white sands, lime stones formation, and crystal clear waters. Its serene and tranquil place will give you the break you need from the hustle and bustle of the city because it is "virtually untouched". Fun activities you can do are Island hopping, snorkelling, cave exploring, and night fishing.
Accommodations
It’s a fast growing tourist hub so accommodation ranges from a cozy cabanas, hotels, resorts, and guest houses, and pension houses.
5) Boracay
Located at the northwest tip of Panay Island in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, Boracay has been labelled as “The Island Paradise”. Known for its powder white sands and breath taking cool waters it can rival the best beaches in the world.
It should be part of every tourists’ must-go-to list because what you see in pictures are nothing when you get to Boracay. Best time to go here is during summer season in the Philippines which is from March to May. Other than enjoying the “paradise” you and your friends and family can enjoy tons of water activities like kite boarding, windsurfing, jet skis, parasailing, and more.
More about Boracay
Boracay has two primary beaches the White Beach and The Bulabog Beach. But all in all the island has over 350 beach resorts that offers accomodations from five star hotels to budget accommodations. It also has a wide array of restaurants, nightclubs, and bars.
Interesting Facts: It was awarded in the “Travelers’ Choice 2011″ by TripAdvisor as the second out of twenty-five best beaches in the world. Boracay made a debut appearance on the Top 10 Islands list in the Travel + Leisure travel magazine World’s Best Awards 2011, ranking fourth; 2007 it topped the list of the World’s Most Popular Beach (source Yahoo); 1990 appeared in BMW handbook as one of the Best Beaches in the World (Source Wikipedia).
Comments
15th Apr 2012 (#)
great page mam Dana Brown! there are so many places for family getaways here in the Philippines, exploring the wonders of nature...I have watched in the TV scenic spots which are so expensive or very exclusive and I cannot believe it is in the Philippines, apparently they are for the rich ones.. others also found disillusioned by its "more fun in the Philippines"...they must also know the not so good things about staying in the Philippines
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15th Apr 2012 (#)
Thanks Madam Avery, it was tough deciding for me what the top 5 destinations in the country are because there's just so many. Just like any other country we are a work in progress. But it’s a shame not to let the world know about our "paradise", with all our breath taking natural wonders I believe it’s worth every traveller's trip and truly a tourist's paradise.
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15th Apr 2012 (#)
Very lovely, thank you!
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15th Apr 2012 (#)
Philippines is a top tourist draw like other South East Asian countries. And the people are born tourist friendly! If I cannot make it this life, I can at least read and enjoy such lovely posts. Thanks Dana - siva
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15th Apr 2012 (#)
Aww!!! Thanks Sir Sivaramakrishnan! When indeed life gives you the chance to visit, let me know I'll be your guide sir. ;-)
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15th Apr 2012 (#)
This is a beautiful article. Thanks for writing about the beauty of our country. Philippines is indeed a tourist destination. Congrats on your well deserved star, Dana.
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16th Apr 2012 (#)
Thanks Madam Irons.
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16th Apr 2012 (#)
Hi Dana. Just call me Tess for short.
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15th Apr 2012 (#)
Thanks, kabayan Dana, for featuring our country.
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15th Apr 2012 (#)
Your welcome Ms. Buzz, ;-)
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16th Apr 2012 (#)
I would love to visit the Philippines one day. It is a beautiful place.
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16th Apr 2012 (#)
Wow, lovely place, very tempting, and close enough to NZ to almost be affordable perhaps.
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