Historical Sites

Image Source

Shown above is the historic Magellan's Cross. It was planted by Ferdinand Magellan, discoverer of the Philippines on April 27, 1521 to signify the beginning of Christianity in the country. Today, this cross (original encased) is both a historical and religious land mark in Cebu where Catholic pilgrims pay a visit to say a prayer. Others come to acquire a firsthand lesson in Philippine history. This site can even be considered as the cradle of Christianity in the Far East for the Philippines is the only predominantly Christian nation in the orient.

Image Source

Situated right in the heart of Cebu City is this imposing Cebu Heritage Moñument that commemorates the arrival of the mighty fleet of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. Also among these giant sculptures are those of Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and his men that arrived in the country forty years later in 1561 to formally colonize and Christianize the Philippines because Magellan failed to completely convert the native earlier due to his death in the historic battle of Mactan-an island less than a kilometer off mainland Cebu. Legaspi's arrival marked the beginning of the more than 300-year Spanish reign of the Philippines.

World Class Musical Instruments

Image Source

Cebu guitar makers are well-known all over the country. Each musical instrument above is a small four-string guitar, locally known as “ukelele,” a Cebuano version of the six-string acoustic guitars. Aside from being affordable, the diminutive guitar is very handy that children learn to play it comfortably. When played very well, it can fill the air with melodious tune just like the standard guitars. Sounding boards of Ukeleles (shown above) are mostly incised with images that depict countryside Philippines.

Image Source

Shown above are purely Cebu- made acoustic guitars. They are being produced around the country, but those made in Cebu are well-known for being world class. Their sounding boards are made from a tropical fruit tree-jackfruit. Local musicians prefer such raw material for guitars because it produces musical tunes that they like most. Thus, Cebu is now the major guitar-making province in the country

Historic Mode of Transportation

Image Source

Shown above is a horse-drawned carriage, a mode of transportation brought by the Spaniards in the Philippines more than four hundred years ago. Filipinos have long used it  with enthusiasm, but the advent of modernization has been slowly putting off these carriages that used to dominate the Philippine local roads. Nevertheless, here in Cebu one can still find a joyous ride on this environment-friendly predecessor of modern taxis that now dominate the short-distance transport.

Historic Churches

Image Source

Christianity is the greatest legacy of Spain to the Philippines, making the latter the predominant Christian nation in Asia. Filipinos today have embraced other Christian faith, but Catholicism is predominant. Shown above is the historic Basilica del Sto. Niño (Holy Child Jesus) located right in the heart of Cebu City. Having been built in 1566 by the Spaniards makes it the oldest Catholic church in the Philippines, but lost the honor when it was renovated in 1735 after it was hit by a fire. Today, the structure is reminiscent of the blend of Muslim, Romanesque, and neo-classical architecture. An image of the Holy Child Jesus brought by Ferdinand Magellan is kept in this historic church, making it one of the pilgrimage destinations by thousands of devoted Catholics from within the country and around the world.

Sinulog Festival

Image Source

Sinulog, meaning “like water current movement,” is an annual festival held in Cebu City every third Sunday of January. It is a week-long joyous celebration that honors the holy child Jesus or Sto. Niño, and culminates with a day-long street dancing of two steps forward and one step backward tempo. It is well-attended by participants from as far as the fur-flung provinces of Mindanao. Their dashing and colorful attires reflect the major agricultural products of their respective regions. While, those native of Cebu who have migrated usually return for the Sinulog and many foreign tourists as well visit Cebu for this major religious and cultural event in the Philippines.

Taoist Temple

Image Source

Being peaceful and inhabited by warm and hospitable people where large scale businesses thrive, Cebu has become the melting pot of Asian races in the Philippines. Many Chinese and South Koreans have made this place their permanent home. Shown above is a Taoist temple built by the Cebu Chinese community. It is open to all visitors- worshipers and non-worshipers alike. And around three hundred (300) meters above sea level, it provides a very comfortable and panoramic view of the ever prospering Queen City in Southern Philippines.

Bantayan Island

Image Source

Being a maritime province, Cebu is endowed with many exquisite beaches. Shown above is one of those beaches situated in the island of Bantayan. Its pristine waters and spotless white grains of sand captivate thousands of both local and foreign tourists. Moreover, karaoke bars, snorkeling and diving equipments are available to make ones vacation enjoyable as much as possible.

Water Falls

Image Source

The image shown above is that of Kawasan Falls where hundreds of South Koreans, Americans, Europeans and other foreign tourists troop anytime of the year. It's a majestic fall of foam-like waters that extends as high as 50 meters. Below is a deep semi-lake, where one can take an enjoyable plunge into the cold waters. A raft is also provided for a minimal pay for those who just wanted to drift around. Beside this natural pool are cozy cottages and cookout facilities that afford comfortable accommodations.

Cebu Butterfly Sanctuary

Image Source

Image Source

The images above are taken from a butterfly sanctuary located in the nearby town of Pardo. A guided tour around the sanctuary is afforded for twenty five pesos for children and fifty for adult. It's really an amusement, with the Philippine butterflies in their flamboyant colors perching on finger tips. On the other hand, paintings made from butterfly wings (Shown on the 2nd image) are a unique source of fascinating and amazing sights that are equally provided by the sanctuary.

Crocolandia

Image Source

Crocolandia is a conservation park located in Talisay City, Cebu. Contrary to its name, it's not only populated by friendly crocodiles but other animals also, making it a mini-zoo. A guided tour is provided for a very reasonable fee. The tour includes a walk through the cages filled with such exotic animals as Philippines turtles, wild pigs, colorful birds, snakes, and iguanas. Animals here are very docile that one could even feed the crocodiles! Provided even more are a series of lectures about wild animals.

Cock Fighting

Image Source

Shown above is a typical cockfighting venue in the Philippines. It is a Filipino culture left by the Spaniards. As a form of big deal gambling, it is widely criticized today in Philippine society. But without participating into its gambling side, it's really an amusement to watch ferocious cocks fighting against each other that it is widely participated by Filipinos from all walks of life.

Roast Pigs

Image Source

In the Philippines, a social party without a roast pig is incomplete. In Christmas parties, birthdays, weddings and fiestas a roast pig is always the highlight of the menu. It has really permeated the Filipino eating culture that even people who are not so fond of this unique kind of  fork recipe alludes whether a roast pig is among the menus for without it he/she will not attend. No wonder, majority of Filipinos find it yummiest among other kinds of fork recipes.

Cebu Mangoes

Image Source

After having tasted Cebu mangoes and those coming from other parts of the world, one can claim that those coming from Cebu are world class. They are characterized by their sugar- sweet taste and fragrance. Unlike other kinds available in many fruit markets, mangoes from Cebu are like papayas in texture, with almost no fiber that makes them very pleasant for a dessert.

Olango Island Bird Watching

Image Source

Olango is an islet off Mactan Island. It is of tourist interest for it serves as a refuge to thousand of migratory birds during the months February to April and September to November. Hundreds of tourists troop to the island to enjoy bird watching and boating through the mangroves. Moreover, local villagers amuse the visitors with their indigenous craft at fishing. They also serve foods at very reasonable prices.

Charles Horton Colley, once said of travel, “To get away from one's working environment is, in a sense, to get away from one's self; and this is often the chief advantage of travel and change.” And one place in the world that can truly live up to such agreeable and lovely claim is this beautiful and historic island of Cebu in Central Philippines. On the other hand, the Wonders of Bohol and the Grand Tourist Attractions of Camiguin are as splendid as that in the neighboring province of Cebu.

White Island

Image Source

The image of a sand bar above is actually an island, popularly known as the White Island. Depending on the tides, it changes shape; sometimes a letter C, at times it takes the shape of the letter I. Although it's two kilometers off coast, the island still has the grand picturesque Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Old Vulcan as its backdrop. Tourists go there for a gratifying swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Image Source

Shown above is the Pacific side of the White Island, speaking for itself as to how a wonder it is. Its nearly unblemished white shores and pristine waters which are over-hanged by serene and lonely Philippine skies are among the most fascinating spots in the world where anyone can spend the most quality vacation.

Grand Beach Resorts

Image Source

Because of being encompassed by the calm seas of the Pacific, Camiguin is endowed with many exquisite beaches, enticing many foreign tourists to visit the island many times of the year. The image shown above is that of the most popular Paras Beach Resort. It is fully equipped for other related recreational activities such as darts, billiards, karaoke system, and satellite television. Speedboats and scuba diving equipments are also available.

Exquisite Sunsets

Image Source

While in Camiguin, vacationers will be charmed certainly by the multitude of grand and enchanting sunsets. In each sunset, the reddening sun in its plodding march to obscurity in order to give way to a serene country night is simply captivating. Moreover, the crimson and lonely clouds that now and then appear and disappear until they are completely enfolded in darkness are so beautiful to behold. Silent nights would then take over, but the arrivals of the caravan of small waves would occasionally bring, yet melodious noise.

Lanzones Festival

Image Source

The Tropical Lanzones Fruit (Lansium domesticum)

Image Source

A local tourist buying lanzones

Image Source

Lanzones is a tropical golden fruit known for its sugar taste. It grows anywhere in the Philippines, but Camiguin produces the sweetest kind all across the country, making it the major lanzones-producing province. In keeping with the age-old Filipino tradition of extending gratitude to “Bathala,” meaning God during harvest seasons, residents of Camiguin became well-known for their unique way of thanksgiving-the popular lanzones festival. It is a four-day event in October which is highlighted by a day-long festivity of enjoyable street dancing. In order to partake the  flamboyant and glorious celebration, thousands of both local and foreign tourists troop to the island for the festival that also include exhibits of agri-cottage industry products, Barangay beautification, tableau of local culture, and indigenous sports.

Majestic Waterfalls

Image Source

Being abound in this archipelagic country, some grand waterfalls are found in Camiguin. The image above is that of Katibawasan Falls where many tourists take a plunge and a swim into the cold waters. And because of being embellished around with attractive wild and native Philippine orchids, shorter trees, ferns and boulders of many sizes, the 250-feet cascades of cold and frothy waters appear truly majestic. They provide one of the most refreshing and gratifying splashes in hot summers.

The Sunken Cemetery

Image Source

Probably unique in the world, the cross shown by the image above marks the location of a sunken cemetery in the town of Bonbon. Seeing this large and imposing cross against the background of a crimson sunset ends up one contemplating things divine. Now seemingly the world of swimming souls is a cemetery of the village that sunk during the 1871 volcanic chaos. Today, diving through an array of cold and lonely grave stones embedded unto the once dry ground more than a hundreds years ago is a wonderment and fascination to many.

Volcanoes and Observatory

Image Source

An ant's view of Mt. Hibok-Hibok

Image Source

Inside Philvolcs observatory

The Philippines is one of the most geologically active volcanic island arcs in the world, and one of the volcano-dotted islands of the country is Camiguin. The world-renowned Mt. Hibok-Hibok prompted the Philippine Government to establish an observatory near the volcano for scientific research and volcanic monitoring for tourists' safety. It is now one of the busiest observatories of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvolcs) across the country. Meanwhile, scientists at the observatory are well-known for their generosity in sharing their field of expertise to curios visitors and excursionists that enjoy at the same time a comfortable and panoramic view of the glorious island.

Hot Springs

Located in the Municipality of Mambajao, is the locally favorite Ardent Hot Spring (image above). It derives its hot water of about 40 degrees centigrade from underground which is directly linked to Mt. Hibok-Hibok via subterranean rivulets. Nearby the spring are cozy cottages, dormitories, restaurants, cookout facilities and rest rooms; all provided to cater the need of both local and foreign tourists. Other hot spring of interest is the Tangub Hot Spring. It springs by the sea, resulting to the varying temperatures of the waters; they depend largely on the periodic tides. Nevertheless, scuba divers here can dive as deep as 1020 meters.

Ancient Church Ruins

Image Source

The enormous havoc wrecked by the great volcanic eruption of 1871 left the community in abject desolation. Among the extant silent remnants of the unforgiving natural tragedy are the church ruins of walls of adobe, a gloomy belfry and a mute convent whose presence are being preserved by the local government to allow everyone an instant field trip to 18th century Philippines.

Unique Mode of Public Transportation

Image Source

One thing that anyone will find hard to forget after the Camiguin tour is the enjoyable and exciting ride on a jeepney. Jeepney is the common mode of overland and short-distance mass transportation in the Philippines. It offers a very affordable fare, albeit one has to suffer a little crowded ride, but it's fun. This vehicle, also well-known for its flamboyant decorations is purely Filipino invention that it cannot be found in other parts of the world. For a fact, the jeepney has become one of the symbols of the Philippines as a unique country, making a jeepney ride a firsthand immersion into the Filipino culture.

Cold Springs

Image Source

Cold springs also abound in Camiguin, and the Sto. Nino Cold Spring (shown above) is the most popular. It has a pool of 25 meters by 40 meters in area. Around two meters deep, the pool provides an enjoyable swimming while all catering needs are probably complete. It has a restaurant, picnic huts, cookout facilities, rest rooms and comfortable cottages. And such Philippine landscape peculiarities as coconuts, fruits trees and green and wild bushes are the very cool primary sights here and there.

Typical Philippine Countryside

Image Source

Expectedly, Camiguin presents countless of typical countryside scenes. The golden rice fields, the verdant trees, Philippine birds in their lullabies while perching on low branches and the fresh airs are all-around for anyone to savor upon. It is simply so bracing and so invigorating to allow oneself in complete harmony with nature even in so short a moment in order to rid off such stressful and whirlwind urban life.

Because of incessant advance of urbanization, we tend to get alienated from nature in which we deserve to ravish its natural beauty. Camiguin Island is without question an ideal place to treat our human selves a warm reunion with nature in which we are an integral part. “At thing of beauty is a joy forever,” so said by John Keats, and Camiguin is a thing of beauty; it's a joy forever.

image source

The Mall Of Asia is located in Bay City, Pasay City, Philippines. This mall is known to be the biggest mall in the Philippines and Asia, and is also recognized as the 7th largest mall in the world considering its gross floor size, and the 3rd largest mall in terms of leasable area. It opened last May 21, 2006. It is very big that you cannot just tour around it in one day. This is owned by the SM Prime holdings which is managed by the Chinese-Filipino business tycoon Henry Sy.

The Oldest Church

image source

The Baclayon Church is known to be the oldest Church in the Philippines, but then other historians disagree claiming that the San Agustin Church was built 25 years before the Baclayon Church was built in 1595. I have been there last summer and I can say that the Church is really beautiful. Other people argues that the latter should keep its title because it is the Church located in the place where Miguel Lopez de Legaspi first landed in the Philippines.

Numerous Festivals All Over the Country

image source

There are many festivals in the Philippines, but the most popular would be the Cebu's Sinulog Festival in honor of the holy image of Senyor Santo Niño. It is celebrated every 3rd Sunady of the month of January. It is globally known because there are many tourists who just come to the Philippines to see the colorful parade of the festival.

Great Hospitality Of People

image source

Filipinos are naturally friendly because they are known to be hospitable. Even if you are a foreigner they will not treat differently, Filipinos would even offer you something just to satisfy your needs. They are known in the while Southeast Asian countries for that. It could be because of the Spanish settlement for more than 3 decades that Filipinos are emotional and passionate about life in a way that seems more Latin than Asian.

Endemic Animals

image source

Among any other countries, Philippines is one of the countries with most endemic animals in it. There are these animals that are only to b e found within the boundary of the country. With the great number of animals that are living in the country, we could really say that the Philippines has been blessed with so much natural wonders.

Bohol is the province in Visayas. It is located southeast from Cebu and Southwest from Leyte. Another location is north of Mindanao. The territory of Bohol is full of hills and the entire island is enveloped with limestones. The outer layer of the island are mountain ranges.

Its early history tackles more about progressions. The people living in Bohol are descendants of the final crowd of inhabitants. Before the other nation has ever conquered this land, they are believed to already have their own culture. This land has been the foundation and witness of the very first global unity and peace between Datu Sikatuna of the Philippines and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi of Spain. It happened on the 16th day of March 1565 through the famous blood compact.

In order to drive away the Spaniards, the United States fight and win the battle; giving the Spain no choice but to leave and accept defeat. After winning the battle, they bought the entire Philippine islands. Then the Philippines have been under the United States then.

The United States hired someone to build a police force however, instead of doing so; he took his troop into the center of the island and starts his rebellion. While the American force is controlling the outer edge of the city, they minimally ambush some American troop. This technique is called Guerrilla Tactics. The Bohol has been made a separate province under the Act of 2711 on the 10th day of March in 1917.

During the 17th day of May in 1942, the Japanese Imperial Army landed in Tagbiliran. Of course, the native people tried to resist the Japanese forces, yet they fail.

There is a famous diving location in Bohol credited as one of the top ten diving locations in the world. Southern beaches even cater divers from approximately the world.

The most amazing about Bohol is that it is mostly impervious by typhoons that go to the country. The weather is mild all year. From the raining seasons, the northeast torrential rain exists. During the day time, the temperature usually is 28°C and during the night, the temperature runs down to 25°C. However, during the summer season, the temperature even goes higher.

The Loboc River

Image Source

Here tourists enjoy an amazing view of the mountains clothed in green and lush Philippine flora while enjoying a ride on floating restaurants that ferry visitors along the long winding limpid river. One of the smallest primates in the world, known as the Philippines tarsier is also found here. Some are wild and others are tamed, perching on low branches that one can freely fondle the cat-like hair of these tiny mammals. For a complete enjoyment of these tiny monkey-like creatures, visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary at the nearby town of Corella.

Local tourists enjoy tarsiers on their arms at Loboc River.

Image Source

The Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary-Corella, Bohol

Tarsiers at the sanctuary.

Image Source

The Philippine tarsier now gradually disappearing from the forest due to farming and logging (legal or illegal) are being preserved by the Philippine government in a sanctuary at the town of Corella. Once covered by the National Geographic Channel, it is now one of the top tourists' destinations in Bohol. The experience of the visit is highlighted by the excitement of directly catching hold and playing with the diminutive, lovely and submissive creatures. They are very exciting to play with for they are no larger than an adult hand; in fact these indigenous tarsiers in the Visayas and Mindanao region of the Philippines are one of the smallest primates in the world.

The Chocolate Hills

Image Source

Standing among the most unique geological features in the world is this grand array of almost uniformly sized-haycock hills. During summer seasons, grasses wither and turn brown, thus its name. Spread across a land area of about 50 square kilometers, the chocolate hills has become the symbol of this central Philippine province even of the country itself. Rest houses on hilltops afford visitors a panoramic and grand view of over 1,000 perfectly-coned shape and 30 to 50 meter-tall hills that would left anyone in awe, an experience that will surely stay in one's memory for a very long time or forever.

The Panglao Beach Resort

Image Source

Anyone wishing to treat himself/herself of the foretaste of paradise should consider this island beach resort. Being endowed with crisp and fresh air blowing from the fronting and calm Pacific Ocean makes the island in the frontline of foreign tourists' itinerary. Aside from the bracing and invigorating atmosphere provided by the ambience of crystal and limpid waters, visitors will have their own memorable experiences of Filipinos' ever warmest hospitality.

The Religious Historic Sites

Image Source

Being adjacent to Cebu where Ferdinand Magellan docked in 1521 to pave the way for the eventual Spanish occupation of the archipelago for over 300 years, Bohol become one of the historical heritages of the country. Testament to it is the presence of numerous historic catholic churches dating back to the Spanish era. One of them is the Roman Catholic Church in the old town of Albuquerque; the sight of which is like a travel in time back to 17th century Philippines that bears much semblance of those Hispanic countries in South America. Today, a visit of Bohol by both local and international tourists is incomplete without having visited these antiquarian churches.

The Pamilacan Island Dolphin and Whale Watching

Image Source

Bohol also provides best dolphin and whale watching experience. Tourist guides are former dolphin hunters themselves who have abandoned their age-old tradition of butchering these giant but harmless and kind sea creatures. Instead they are now serving as dedicated stewards of the sea. For a minimal pay for the guides and other related expenses you surely will have one the most rewarding maritime experiences while contributing for the preservation of the species as well.

I hope you enjoy the virtual tour? You may now start planning and saving for at least once in a lifetime visit of Bohol. I heard once and it's true that the world is like an enriching book; if we do not travel then we simply open and read the first page.

As there is some problems and in the southern islands they do have dangerous areas with terrorist organizations in Luzon the northern main island it is mostly safe. These areas with problems are highly cautioned to avoid. The list easily acquired at travel agencies, Department of Foreign Affairs, Embassies or Philippine Nation Police offices.

As for the brothels, prostitution is illegal not to say some places bend the rules. This happens in most places around the world. This is not typical as may be said by others. Most women are virtuous and appalled by this misconception.

If you travel the Philippines, you will find it naturally beautiful as a tropical country. There are many white sand beaches mountains and rain forests. The people are hospitable and most speak English their own way but understandable. The common language spoken is Tagalog but very many other dialects spoken depending upon the area. Most Filipino/Filipinas are happy to meet and very helpful in welcoming guests to their country. Cultural dancing is also an experience and different from area to area.

Being The Philippines is a poor country it is an advantage as many things are inexpensive. Food, travel, clothing and stay are affordable for most budgets.

Great Things to Do

While in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, do take advantage of the big but bustling city. There are many shopping malls to include the Mall of Asia, the biggest mall in Asia, a short ride from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Makati is close as well and a very modern and well kept part of Manila a must to see. Hotels there are grand and have great tours. Along Roxas Boulevard a drive along the coast of Manila bay are also many great hotels with tours as well. The US Embassy and other embassies are located along the drive for those who visit from the US if needed.

Shopping malls have fix prices. The markets though are always a great place to bargain. This is expected and it is fun as well.

Do visit Hundred Islands in Alaminos, Pangasinan province. This was a well-kept secret but now is a growing tourism place. It is about 6-hour bus ride from Manila but well worth the time. There you will find 100 small islands close together, many with white sand beaches and plenty of small boats to take you there for a very reasonable price. There is resorts there too that offer comfort at a low price. There you can fish, snorkel and even scuba dive. This is a protected area as a national park.

Visit Baguio known to be summer capital and the cleanest city. This city is high in the central mountains of Luzon. It is cooler by far then most of the low lands so even the Philippines is a tropical country do bring a jacket as it does get cooler especially at dark. This is most likely the best place to buy handcraft as the native handcraft mostly made in this area. Baguio City is also about 6 hours from Manila by bus. If you like to play golf Camp John Hay has an excellent golf course and hotels that have golf packages available.

I recommend it highly as I currently reside in Baguio City. Take a short trip from Baguio to Asin a hot spring resort area. Relax in the very warm and natural sulfur spring baths. Family will enjoy the water parks at the resorts there as well.

Tagaytay about 3 hours bus ride from Manila is a wonder to see. The mountain city with a view of Taal Lake and Volcano is breathtaking. A short hour drive from there is the beaches of Bantangas with many beach resorts some equipped for a try at scuba diving, snorkeling or fishing.

Things to be aware of

As in all places over the world there is good and bad. The Philippines is no exception. Recommendations include valuables and money be secured. Suggestions being bring only what you will spend for the time you are shopping or touring. Always use caution to keep money in front pocket and hand on as some market places do have pickpocket or purse-snatchers. Be aware of your environment as most victims are careless. Stay with and adhere to tour guide instruction as they are familiar with problems and will keep you safe.

Be skeptical of those who befriend you or entice you to stray from tour rules there is also con artists that run in groups and look for people unaware of this situation. The best way to be safe is again in a group managed by guides.

An experience of a lifetime

If you choose to go, enjoy the Philippines, as it is an experience you will treasure the rest of your life. You may even conceder the country as a future retirement spot as I have.

 

Image Source

For anyone who's ever lived in Manila, the first thing that registers with that place is chaos. Traffic, overcrowding, pollution, not escaping the fact that there's a mall within a one-kilometer radius of each other that could cause all of the aforementioned whenever there's a weekend sale going on.

 

Oh yes, welcome to the Philippines' bustling 76 million-manned capital.

 

But people who have been searching for a different, more homey kick may be pleasantly surprised that not everything you seek costs an arm or a leg (or both!). In this age of disposable gadget satisfaction, nothing can beat fun living at the barest essentials. Have you strolled in a park lately?

 

Here's a little guide on how to achieve that "natural high" without spending a lot. For the travelers, this is for you. For native Manileños, do open your eyes.

 

 

Get Some Air

 

The Rizal Park, our national landmark, can be one for starters -- ingest in a little heritage. But the Roxas Boulevard area is a vast expanse of land that you can spend an entire day doing whatever you want. You can exercise with the resident fitness group, ride a bike, read a book, see the boats sailing, have a picnic, go over to the gardens. Along the way you can see the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex where a lot of shows events happen, the Quirino Grandstand where there's a occasional gathering or two, and of course, the Manila Bay where the most beautiful sunsets can be viewed.

 

Kick the Water

 

There's the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila with an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and the Ultra Pool with a 10-lane Olympic pool, and the Makati Aqua Sports Arena with the 8-lane Olympic pool. All are well-maintained and clean -- not bad for public pools, huh? They are open every day (except Mondays).

 

Sitting Pretty

 

Well, there's not much calorie-burning involved here, but you've got to hand in the effort of beating the traffic! There's the Pasig River Ferry, which was just launched in 2007, for the purpose of easier transport (and some sight-seeing). It takes passengers to different drop-off points such as Escolta, Intramuros and Guadalupe. Smooth sailing ahead with air conditioning, and you'll get to see magnificent structures like the Malacañang Palace (the Presidential residence and office) and the Greek-inspired Manila Post Office. Although the more eye-opening could be the stark poverty you'll encounter as you go along the river.

 

 

Connect with Animals

 

You don't have to be a kid to be able to enjoy going to the zoo. The landmark Manila Zoo bevys an assortment of animals, like the lions, monkeys, hippos, giraffes, zebras ("Madagascar" for real!), elephants, rhinos, snakes, eagles, and more. There is also the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center on Quezon Avenue, and in there is a mini-zoo where you can see rescued and confiscated wildlife like pythons and hawks.

 

Commune in Green Spirit

 

The La Mesa Ecopark in Quezon City is not just any other park -- it's a lush sanctuary in the middle of the metropolis. There's green everywhere, and you can breathe in smog-free air as you follow up a trail of trees, shrubs, and flowers. There's also a small duck pond, a mini-forest trail and an exercise trail. Something to escape in.

 

Go Bird-Watching

 

Meanwhile, avian aficionados will be astounded with the breadth and variety of birds flocking in the city -- the Philippines is a favorite destination of migratory birds, and you'll often see them in the early morning and late afternoon. The best places to go birding are: The University of the Philippines' National Institute of Geological Science in Quezon City; Fort Bonifacio American War Memorial in Taguig, and the Tambo Mudflats in Parañaque. People who'd like to view the birds much closer can go to Avilon Zoo in Rizal (a 2-hour bus ride from Manila), which features a plethora of our feathered friends in all colors, breeds and sizes. The zoo also has many other animal species -- common and rare, so bring in the kids for a great educational experience! (Personally, this is my favorite.)

 

 

 

Certainly, there are other places to visit and things you can do while in Manila. But if you're on a budget, why not try these? Let's make it worth your while!

Here's a list of native Filipino foods made or cooked from coconut.

1. Lumpiang Sariwa: Fresh Heart-of-Palm Spring Rolls

   
   
   One of my favorites is lumpiang sariwa because it really tastes good. Its primary ingredient is the apical buds of coconut known as “palm-cabbage” or heart-of-palm. It is considered a rare delicacy, as the act of harvesting the bud kills the palm. Thus, fresh heart-of-palm salad is sometimes called “millionaire's salad.”

2. Buko Salad: Shredded Young Coconut Meat

   
   
   Buko salad is another personal favorite of mine and one of the most favorite desserts in the Philippines. Ingredients of this include shredded young coconut meat, fruit cocktail, pineapple tidbits, condensed milk, all purpose cream, and nata de coco (optional). Just mixed them altogether and then chill.

3. Para ng Niyog: Coconut Sprout

   Coconut sprout are also eaten. Newly germinated coconuts contain an edible fluff of marsh mallow-like. It is produced as the endosperm nourishes the developing embryo.

4. Latik: Fried Coconut Milk Solid

   
   
   This is produced when coconut milk is cook to extract oil. The solid residue is called latik. These are usually used as topping for maja blanco, rice cake (biko) and many others to add flavor making these native delicacies yummier.

5. Buko Pandan Salad

   
   
   Another favorite of mine because of its unique aroma brought by the pandan leaves is the buko pandan salad. In preparing this salad, you'll need pandan leaves boiled in water of the coconut, shredded young coconut meat, gelatin cut into cubes, kaong or sweet sugar palm, nata de coco (optional), evaporated milk and sugar. Just mixed them altogether and then chill.

6. Buko Pie

   
   
   Buko pie is a kind of pie in which, of course, the major ingredient is young coconut meat. It is available from all over the archipelago because coconut grow anywhere in the country. One of the best buko pies can be bought in the provinces of Laguna or in Nueva Vizcaya.

7. Minatamis Na Buko

   This desert is very easy to cook. You will be needing shredded young coconut meat and sugar only. Caramelize the sugar then pour the shredded coconut strands, mix well, and wait until all the liquid had evaporated. You can eat it as it is or you can use it as a spread for sandwiches or bread.

8. Bocarillo

   
   
   This delicacy is prepared the same as minatamis na buko or bao but instead of using white sugar you will be using solidified molasses or locally called sinuklob, if it's not available you can use brown sugar as a substitute. The matured coconut meat here is shredded. In some region, the coconut meat is slice into strips about ½ to 1 in. long.

9. Bukayo o Panotsa: Sweetened Coconut Balls

   
   
   The same procedure with bukayo, just add some flour so that it will be easier to shape it in ball then add toasted sesame seeds as toppings.

10. Minatamis Na Bao

    
    
    This is prepared the same way as the sweetened young coconut strand is cook. Just replace the shredded young coconut meat with a matured grated coconut meat.

11. Buko Juice: Fresh Young Coconut Water

    
    
    Quench your thirst by drinking the purest and sweetest water on earth - buko juice. It is a refreshing drink throughout the humid tropics. The cavity contains sugar, fiber, proteins, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Coconut water provides an isotonic electrolyte balance, and is a highly nutritious food source.

12. Buko Palamig or Buko-Pandan Palamig

    
    
    You'll be needing water of coconut, sugar, shredded young coconut meat (buko) and evaporated milk. Mix them altogether and add crashed ice, there you have it an instant cold drink that will quench your thirst. For buko-pandan palamig, just replace the coconut water with water boiled with pandan leaves.

13. Nata de Coco

    
    
    Nata de coco is a chewy, translucent, jelly-like food product produced by the bacterial fermentation of coconut water. Nata de coco is most commonly sweetened as a candy or dessert, and can accompany many things including pickles, drinks, ice creams, puddings and fruit mixes. Nata de coco is highly regarded for its high dietary fiber, and its zero fat and cholesterol content. No preservatives or other chemicals are added to Nata de coco.

14. Macapuno Ice Cream

    
    
    Ice cream is a borrowed western food and has become a favorite the world over. One of the best-selling ice cream flavors in the country is the macapuno flavor most especially during summer.

15. Halo-Halo

    
    
    Two of the major ingredients of this summer blockbuster quencher in the Philippines are buko or shredded young coconut meat and nata de coco.

16. Iced Buko (Popsicle) and Iced Candy

    
    
    Another summer favorite by all ages, young and old, is the iced buko or buko iced candy. This is prepared the same procedure with buko palamig, just put the liquid mixture in a ready made plastic bag and put it in the freezer. After a few hours you already have an iced buko or iced candy.

17. Macapuno or Coconut Candy

    
    
    A “gelatinous mutant coconut” cut into balls or strands. These are available anywhere in the country.

18. Uses of Gata (Coconut Milk)

    
    
    Coconut milk has one thousand and one culinary uses in the Philippine cuisine. Here are some recipes that use coconut milk; from top to bottom, left to right- kaldereta (chicken, duck, beef, pork or goat meat), Bicol express (pork with chili), laing (rhubarb leaves and stems), ginataang kuhol(snail cook with coconut milk), ginataang mais - corn, paradosdos (mixture of sago, glutinous rice balls, jackfruit, banana, shredded coconut meat), ginataang langka(young jackfruit), ginataang chicken with spinach, ginataang tulingan (also applicable for other kind of fish), chicken - macaroni soup.

.Try all of these when you visit the Philippines this summer or other countries in the tropics. Try also our native wines made from coconut - lambanog and tuba. You will sure like these. You can try them at home too if you don't have the chance to visit the tropics.

Enjoy cooking and happy eating.

The list includes the historic city of Vigan, Ilocos Sur; Nuestra Señora dela Asuncion also in Ilocos Sur; Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park and Tubbataha National Marine Park both in Palawan; Banawe or Ifugao Rice Terraces in Ifugao; Apo Reef National Park and Mt. Iglit-Baco National Park both in Mindoro; Sto.Tomas de Villanueva Church in Iloilo; San Agustin Church in Manila and Church of San Agustin in Ilocos Norte.

Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park, Palawan

It's home to over 300 coral species and 400 species of fish. It is currently ranked number 5 on the list for the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Tubbataha is a reef ecosystem made up of two atolls located in the middle of the Sulu Sea. It is a sanctuary for marine life. The reefs lie on the Cagayan Ridge, a line of extinct underwater volcanoes which starts from the north at the Sultana Shoal and it ends in the south at the San Miguel Islands. It was proclaimed as a National Marine Park on August 11, 1988 and inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage in 1993, in recognition of its outstanding universal value in terms of marine life species diversity and richness.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan

It boasts of the world's longest navigable underground river. This site is currently ranked number 8 on the list of New Seven Wonders of the World.

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located about 50 km north of the city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. It features a limestone mountain landscape with an 8.2 km. navigable underground river. A distinguishing feature of the river is that it winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea. It includes major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and several large chambers. The underground river is reputed to be the world's longest navigable. At the mouth of the cave, a clear lagoon is framed by ancient trees growing right to the water's edge. Monkeys, large monitor lizards, and squirrels find their niche on the beach near the cave.

Ifugao or Banawe Rice Terraces in Ifugao,

It  cover about 20,000 hectares of the Cordillera mountain range.

The Banawe or IfugaoRice Terraces (Tagalog: Hagdan-hagdang Palayan ng Banaue) are 2000-year old terraces that were carved into the mountains of Cordillera in the Philippines by the indigenous Ifugaos. The Rice Terraces are commonly referred to as the “Eight Wonder of the World”. It is commonly thought that the terraces were built with minimal equipment, largely by hand. The terraces are located approximately 1,500 meters (5000 ft) above sea level and cover 10,360 square kilometers (about 4000 square miles) of mountainside. They are fed by an ancient irrigation system from the rainforests above the terraces.

Apo Reef National Park - Occidental Mindoro

Apo Reef National Park is acclaimed as one of the best diving sites in Asia. It is a 34-kilometer reef, with a narrow channel running east to west, dividing this reef into two lagoon systems, north and south. Apo Reef is the second largest contiguous coral reef in the world and the largest one in the Philippines.

Mt. Iglit-Baco National Park

Mt. Iglit is one of Mindoro's reservation areas, declared as a game sanctuary for tamaraws, wild animals found nowhere else in the world. The tamaraw bears a close resemblance to the Philippine water buffalo, commonly known as carabao (water buffalo -Bubalus mindorensis).

Historic City of Vigan in Ilocos Sur

Known for its Spanish colonial houses.

Old Vigan Colonial Houses - the ancestral houses were built mostly by rich Chinese traders. These great big houses are made of thick brick walls and plastering with red clay. Tile roofs are made to survive earthquakes. The Mestizo district is the place where you can see more than a hundred houses line side by side along Calle Crisologo.

Santo Tomas de Villanueva Church in Miag-ao, Iloilo

A church built by the Agustinians as a fortress-church in Baroque-Romanesque style on a hill in 1786.

The Church is an Augustinian mission station built as a squat, massive fortress to protect townsfolk from Muslim invasion.

Nuestra Señora dela Asuncion in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur

 

Located on a hill surrounded by a stone wall. The best way to appreciate the architectural mood is to ascend the church's grand stairway of 85 wide steps starting at the town proper.

San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila

 

Built as early as 1586, San Agustin Church is the oldest extant Christian sanctuary in the Far East, and the Philippines' oldest stone edifice.

Church of San Agustin in Paoay, Ilocos Norte

 

A church made of coral stone and was adorned like an Asian temple. A church made of coral stone and was adorned like an Asian temple. Built from 1694 to between 1702 and 1710, it is the premier example of Philippine Earthquake Baroque, an architectural solution to the area's challenging and natural setting.

Come and visit these beautiful and world class sites. You will surely enjoy your trip in the Philippines once you have visited these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Balut is one of my favorite exotic foods here in the Philippines because it gives you vitality as said by people. It looks bad but very good when you taste it. Smells and looks awful but just give it a try. It is rich in protein but not good for people who have hyper tension. The most yummy part is the chick and its juice. Recently balut price increase from 12 pesos to 13 pesos but still I will buy balut.