With 7,107 islands, and a coastline twice the length of that of the United States, the Philippines can claim to be Asia's Beach Capital. Enjoy the warm crystal blue waters of both the China Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Mention the Philippines and images of long, white sand beaches and bodies of water blessed with a variety of marine life come to mind.
Boracay
Boracay Island, with its sugary white sand beaches and azure blue waters, is located on the northwestern tip of Panay, Western Visayas. The best of the island is the 4 km. White Beach, touted as the “finest beach in the world.” The water surrounding the island is shallow and the sand is finer and brighter than most beaches in the archipelago.
Pagudpud
In the Northern part of the Philippines is a beach reputed to have the longest contiguous white sand with mighty waves and strong winds that can compare to Hawaii. Wind and wave surfing are the outstanding activities that Pagudpud beach offers its very discriminating clientele. Not to mention the inviting views, clear blue waters, and white sand. Pagudpud promises its visitors a magnificent experience in a secluded paradise.
Mactan Island
Lying in the heart of Cebu is the island of Mactan. This tropical-island getaway endowed with a variety of colors – from its beach, hotels, resorts, nightlife, music, food, drinks – will guarantee to spice up every tourist.
Panglao
Panglao is a perfect for a great dive and beach holiday. It is a small island on the Philippines southwest of the bigger island, Bohol. On the southern beach of Panglao there are several resorts that line up on the beach.
Camiguin
Camiguin, which rhymes with “come again,” has been regarded as the most beautiful island in the country. As such, it is also referred to as the Philippines’ “Garden of Eden.” The presence of a number of majestic waterfalls that create both hot and cold springs is only one of the many attractions of this island-paradise. The topography is unmistakably tropical but the ambience is uniquely occidental. A study in contrast, Camiguin is sure to mesmerize anyone who visits with the itch to be back again soon.
Dakak
Dakak Park Beach Resort is located on the sunny white beachfacing the exotic turquoise Sulu Sea. The 750 meter private beach is blanketed with purepowdery white sand. Natural spring water and tumbling waterfalls feed the resort's twopools, whilst the ultimate hideaway is provided at a private open-air jacuzzi where youcan relax in the sauna and whirlpool amidst an atmosphere of blissful solitary refinement.
Honda Bay
Framing the rugged and intriguing coastline of the capital of Palawan, Puerto Princesa City is Honda Bay. Its blue cool waters are dotted with islets that assure one of a pure-pleasure experience. From snorkeling in its clear waters to the more adventurous island hopping within its enclaves to simply having a picnic in the fine sand of its beach areas, Honda Bay is sure to leave a lasting impression on the visitor.
El Nido
Dominated by towering marble cliffs that are homes to a number of tropical birds, El Nido is the source of one of the most delectable soups specially found in Chinese restaurants – the Nido Soup. This soup consists mainly of the birdnests that abound in the area. But El Nido is more than this. It prides itself in having the most beautiful seascapes in the province of Palawan, known as the country’s last frontier. Because of its utter splendor, it has also been called the island of the gods – heaven on earth, that is El Nido
Pearl Farm
Pearl Farm is located in the Samal Island off the coast of Davao City, Southern Philippines. The premier beach resort, which lies in the pristine island of Samal, used to be a pearl farm. There thousands of white-lipped oysters, transported form the Sulu Sea, were once cultivated for their pink, white, and gold pearls. Today, beach lovers all over the world visit this world-class beach resort for its white sand and panoramic landscape and seascape, bringing with them the memory of a lifetime – a relaxing private retreat in a tropical paradise.
Siargao
Siargao, located in the province of Surigao del Norte, is renowned for its curling waves that soar from nine to twelve feet high. It is frequented by surfers from all over the world. Besides surfing, the island of Siargao is well-known for its unspoiled beaches and its rural charm.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Beach
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Palawan
Beautiful landscapes
The province of Palawan is one of the most attractive regions of the country. Not only the 1770 small islands, but also the main island Palawan! Beautiful landscapes on this 425 km long and 40 km width island are like a paradise on earth for nature lovers. For 'nature lovers' and 'adventurers, the coasts on the west side of the island with their rock formations and the underwater river near Sabang, are real attractions. Palawan island distinguishes itself too by its tropical forests.
Discover the tropical rainforest of Palawan!
For an adventure in the tropical jungle you should visit Palawan. The rainforest on the island is well known because of its huge trees. Many are rare. You can only find them on this island! With a little bit luck, you'll meet some of the typical tropical animals, who live in this still original tropical rain forest. Almost 25 percent of all the animal species in the Philippines live only on Palawan. Among these rare animals are the Cobra king and many butterflies, some of them as big as your hand
Campaign to save the forest successful!
Logging is the threat of all rainforests in the Third World. In the Philippines too. Much of the forest has already been lost because of logging.
Many ancient trees have been cut down. For many years already there were campaigns of action groups against the illegal logging. At last they were successful on Palawan. The Philippine government took the necessary measures to halt large-scale logging. Even the former logging bosses now profess to be environmentalists. In other parts of the Philippines however, the government didn't succeed yet to prevent all illegal cutting of the tropical giants.
A must for physical geographers and geologists
In the Northern part of Palawan the fishing-village El Nido is located in a picturesque bay. High and steep marble rock formations give shelter to the settlement and offer a splendid landscape scenery. Trips into the blue lagoons by boat gives a good possibility to explore the steep rock formations. The white sandy beaches and the nearby colorful coral reefs give this place a little bit the idea of a little paradise on earth.
The underground river
For many foreigners a visit to the underground river near Sabang on the west coast, is a sensational adventure. After a walking-tour of several hours through the rainforest, you'll arrive to the cave. From there, canoes will bring you for a stay of proximately four hours in the darkness of the cave. Only the light of the electric torches of the guides will give you the opportunity of seeing the presents of the bats and the stalactites (hanging from the roof of the cave) and stalagmites (rising from the floor of the cave). Water in the river is bubbling while the canoes are slowly gliding in the cave.
The underwater world of the coast waters of Palawan
Last but not least, Palawan main island and many of the small islands in the province of Palawan, offer sun, sea and white beaches. Diving, snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach or in the accommodations of one of the resorts. This is what many tourists wish when they travel to a tropical country. When you visit Palawan, you can make a nice combination of adventure with relaxing near or on the beaches and the sea. The Palawan province offers it all.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Colourful festivals and processions
Typical for the Philippines are the many festivals and processions.
The explanation for the most of all these fiestas has to be found in the domination of one specific religion in the Philippines. The majority of the cultural celebrations is closely related to the Catholic religion. Nearly 90% of the Filipinos are Roman Catholic. If you like fiestas, it is really worth to visit the Philippines, especially in January, April, May and June. The most known and biggest fiestas take place in these months.
The most known fiestas
For the Filipinos themselves, every year the festivals and processions are days of great joy and happiness. Fiestas or any community celebration usually feature music, dancing, and food feasts. The most known are the procession of the Black Nazarene, the Ati-Atihan, the Sinulog, the Flores de Mayo and the Santa Cruzan. The colorful dress is most of the time not traditional. To see really traditional clothes, you have to visit the remote areas on Luzon and Mindanao for example.
Ati-AtihanA three-day fiesta in the third week of January on the island of Panay (Visayas)
The wildest among Philippine fiestas!
The festival is a Catholic festival in honor of Santo Niño. During the last day of this festival (fiesta), a parade is characteristic, with celebrants who paint their faces black, wear sometimes masks and rather exceptional costumes.
The origin of the Atis dances dates from the period before the Spaniards arrived on Panay. The typical dance belonged already to the local Atis people in that pre-colonial period.
SinulogIn January, in honor of the miraculous image of the Santo Niño.
In colorful costumes people of Cebu make their way through the streets while dancing the Sinulog, a traditional and ritual dance. The dance is accompanied by the sound of the drums: all the time moving two steps forward followed by one step backward.
The Sinulog was already danced by the natives long before the Spaniards arrived in the Philippines. It was only in 1980, that the first Sinulog parade was organized. From then on it grew up to an enormous festival with a very large parade.
Flores de MayoFlowers of May
A month-long festival in May in honor of the Holy Mary
Flores de Mayo is a Catholic festival introduced by the Spaniards. The last day of the festival is highlighted by a pageant called Santa Cruzan.
The Santa Cruzan is a procession in honor of the finding of the Holy Cross in the year 326 A.D. by Reyna (Queen) Helena, mother of the Roman emperor Constantine the Great. It was the wooden, Holy Cross, on which Jesus Christ was supposed to have been nailed. Long time ago Flores de Mayo and the Santa Cruzan were blended together in one festival
Black NazareneThe largest procession in the country
through the streets of Quiapo in metro Manila
Every year on the 9th of January and on Good Friday, barefooted men carry a life-sized statue through the streets of Quiapo in Metro Manila.
The procession dates from the 17th century. Thousands of men parade through the streets with the black wooden statue of Jesus (of Nazarene). Everybody who is in the neighborhood of the statue tries to touch the statue. People believe that a miracle can happen after touching it.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Mindanao
Mindanao is one of the three islands in the Philippines where there are good possibilities to explore the tropical rainforest. Still a big part of the original jungle is conserved here. For tourists seeking adventure Mindanao offers possibilities for jungle tracking and climbing the highest mountain of the Philippines. Visiting the second largest lake of the country is also possible. Visitors of the island who are interested in culture could make a daytrip to one of the mountain tribes.
Mindanao is the second largest island of the country. It is an interesting island in many respects.
Meet mountain tribes
There are still several indigenous people living on Mindanao. They are traditional in many respects.
Discover the daily life of the Mindanao people
In the rural areas you can meet the farmers and see their traditional ways of working on the fields. In the coastal areas you can visit the fishermen villages. On the beaches you sure will be able to see the way how young children are fishing with their nets.
Bangus,
the National Fish
Children try to catch a specific tiny 'baby' fish, the 'Bangus fry'.
They catch these Bangus fry to put them in ponds on the land, where the fry will grow up to the grownup National fish of the Philippines, the Bangus (milkfish).
Climbing the sacred mountain
Mount Apo is with 3144 meters above sea-level, the highest peak in the Philippines. The name makes that clear! 'Apo' means "grandfather of all mountains". For the indigenous people living in the mountain area, Mount Apo is considered sacred. The origin of the mountain is volcanic. It is an inactive volcano. No eruptions were ever recorded.
This huge mountain is attractive for nature lovers and sportive mountain climbers. Guided trips are organized by the Department of Tourism in Davao City. The attractions during this mountain tracking are plenty. You will get the feeling of being part of the environment during your walking trip through the forest and alongside the slopes of the mountain.
The Philippine Eagle
The mount Apo area is the last remaining territory of the Philippine Eagle in the country. On the island it is possible to make an excursion into the tropical rainforest to discover the Philippine eagle, the National Bird of the Philippines, which is known as the monkey eating eagle.
The indigenous people of Mindanao
There are more than 40 different ethnic groups in the Philippines.
Each group has a distinct culture and language. Several of these ethnic groups can be distinguished as "tribal groups". They are 'indigenous groups' who still live in a rather traditional way. Each group lives in a specific region on one of the islands. You can meat them in parts of Luzon, on some of the Visayas islands and on Mindanao.
The T'boli and B'laan, two indigenous groups
On Mindanao live 18 tribal Filipino groups. The most well known are the T'boli and the B'laan (or "Bla-an"). The other groups are the Ata, Bagobo, Banwaon, Bukidnon, Dibabawon, Higaunon, Kalagan, Mamanwa, Mandaya, Mangguwangan, Manobo, Mansaka, Subanen, Tagakaolo, Teduray and the Ubo.
Most characteristic of these 'indigenous groups' is that they live in a traditional way, comparable with how the ancestors lived centuries ago.
Lumad, the collective name
On Mindanao there are in total 18 indigenous groups. The collective name for the 18 indigenous groups on Mindanao is "Lumad". It is just another word for 'indigenous' .These ethnic groups distinguish themselves by their language and culture.
Old and new elements in their life
The cultural heritage is visible in their clothes and ornaments they wear. Housing, economic activities, cultural habits and often religion are all very traditional. Some groups learned to know tourism as a good alternative to earn extra money. In general however, the indigenous groups still live like in the past
The T'boli and their subsistence activities
The T'boli (pronounce "Tiboli") people live in the southern part of the province Cotabata, in the environment around lake Sebu, west of the city General Santos. It is estimated that are between 100000 and 150000 T'boli. The T'boli practice the primitive way of agriculture "slash and burn". "Slash and burn" means that the people will clear a part of the forest by cutting the big trees and burning the lower and smaller trees and bushes, after which they use the cleared plots as arable land for some years without any fertilization. Rice, cassava and yams are the most important agricultural products. Next to that, the people will go hunting or fishing for additional food.
Religion and culture
Only a few T'boli are Christian or Islamite. More than 95 percent of The T'boli people still has their animistic religion. They were hardly influenced by the spread of the Islam on the island. The Spaniards too, didn't succeed to Christianize the T'boli during the Spanish colonial period. Main reason was that the T'boli withdrew to the hinterlands in the uplands.
The T'boli and members of other indigenous tribes like the Higaunon, still believe in spirits who live on several places in the natural environment.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Bohol
Bohol is the tenth largest island in the Philippines. It is one of the bigger islands in 'the Visayas', the group of islands in the center of the Philippines. Bohol is, together with 72 small islands around the main island, an island province of 4117 square kilometer. Agriculture, together with the tourism, are the two dominating economic sectors of the main island Bohol.
Main attractions of Bohol
For tourists who make a tour through the country, Bohol has three main attractions. These are the tropical forest, the smallest monkey in the world and the 'Chocolate Hills'. For 'sun, sea and beach lovers', there are a lot of possibilities for snorkeling, diving in the unpolluted waters and relaxing on the splendid beaches on some of the surrounding small islands. The Bohol province forms absolutely one of the places to stay for a longer period.
Sun, sea, beaches and diving! 3
Two of the smaller islands are Panglao, Balicasag and Pamilacan, southwest of the main island Bohol. They are the superb diving spots of the province of Bohol. The diving places are rated among the best of the world.
The Chocolate Hills
One of the most spectacular landscapes in the Philippines is formed by the Chocolate Hills on the island Bohol. The Chocolate Hills have all the same shape, but differ in the altitude. The most of the 1268 hills reach 40 meters high.
Origin of the Chocolate Hills
Geologists think that the specific shape of the hills is caused by the influences of the weather during millions of years. The breaking down of the upper layers of the limestone formations, followed by the erosion processes, resulted in these remnants in the shape of cones. In the rainy season the Chocolate Hills are green. In the dry season of each year, the vegetation on the hills gives the landscape a brown colored view, a reason to call them "Chocolate Hills".
The smallest monkey
A reason to visit the main island Bohol, is that Bohol still has tropical rainforests in the higher parts of the island. Moreover, If you want to meet the smallest monkey on earth, the Tarsier, you'll have to visit Bohol! The average size of this little creature is between 90 to 160 mm (3.5 to 6.25 inches). The weight is between 70 to 165 grams.
Cebu Island
Cebu city, the Queen City of the south
The capital of Cebu island is Cebu City. Cebu City is the first Spanish settlement in the country and the oldest city in the country.
In the beginning of the 16th century the Spaniards arrived in the southern part of the Philippines. Since then Cebu City has been the centre of trade and commerce in the southern part of the Philippines.
Many tourists from abroad will directly fly to Cebu's airport. From Cebu they spread out by boat to the many islands in the Visayas or they stay on Cebu island.
On Mactan island tourism is well developed. Many dive centres and dive resorts (more than 75) arrange day excursions and diving safaris to the surrounding dive sites. Not only in the nearby waters, but especially to the nearby small islands. Cebu became the country's top tourist destination.
Mactan island
In the urban area of Cebu City there is an important seaport and the nation's second largest airport is located on Mactan Island, near to Cebu City. It makes clear that Cebu city is the economic heart of the southern part of the country. Modern industries, owned by foreign investors as well as local industries, brought a lot of employment.
What has Cebu to offer to tourists?
For tourists the island Cebu, its capital Cebu City and the nearby smaller islands have a lot of attractions. Many things to do and to see.
Especially:
*Sun, sea and beach, inclusive possibilities for diving
*Local industries (the production process)
*The charm of the activities in the local service sector,by day and in the evening
*Traces from the Spanish and religious past in Cebu City
Traces from the Spanish and religious past
Magellan Cross
Center of trade since the birth of "Las Islas Felipinas"
In 1521 the Spanish period started with the arrival of a small fleet in the coastal waters of Cebu. There was a long period of struggle, but at last, in the year 1565, the Spaniards succeeded to break the last good organized resistance. From that time, colonial buildings and religious places gave Cebu City more and more a Spanish, and Catholic character.
From the beginning of the Spanish influences, the islands were given the name "Las Islas Felipinas", named after King Philips II of Spain. The Spaniards made 'Las Islas Felipinas' their colony and Cebu got the function of the capital in 1565
Traces from the religious past in Cebu City
The year 1521 is been seen as the beginning of the Conversion to Christianity of the island and in fact the beginning of baptize the people in the Philippines. The following three hundred and fifty years meant at last a wide spread of Catholicism in the Philippines. Many relicts from the past are still visible in Cebu City.
The Magellan Cross
Cebu's most famous historical religious landmark is the first wooden religious cross planted by Fernao Magellan on April 14, 1521. Fernao Magellan was the Portuguese explorer, who was sailing for Spain ' in the name of the King of Spain'. The cross symbolizes the beginning of the baptizing of the people of the Philippines. The original cross (or remnants of it), it is said, has been preserved. The original cross is now encased in a newer, bigger wooden cross and since 1834 placed on a concrete pedestal inside a small building named "the kiosk". It is unclear since when the present cross replaced the original one, but it is believed since 1565.
Santo Niño
Santo Niño, the oldest religious image
The image of the Santo Niño is the oldest religious image in the Philippines. The wooden image, made by Flemish artisans, was brought to the island by Fernao Magellan in 1521, just like the Magellan cross. Magellan gave the image Santo Niño to Queen Juana as a baptismal gift.
The miracle
Forty-four years later, In 1565, Cebu was for a big part destroyed by a fire. The fire was set on purpose by the Spaniards as a punishment for hostile activities of the Cebuanos. In one of the burned houses, a Spanish soldier found the image of Santo Niño. Remarkably unscratched! Since then, the miraculous image has been treated by the Cebuanos as its patron saint. At present, the miraculous image is kept in the Parish convent, and only a replica, adorned with gold and precious stones and enshrined in glass, is hold inside the Basilica Minor del Santo.
The Basilica Minor del Santo Niño
The church was built near the place where the Santo Niño was found in the burned house. On this place the Spaniards built three times a church.
The first two times the church was built out of wood and nipa. Every time it was burned down. The construction of the present church date from 1735. In 1965 the church was given the title of "Basilica Minor del Santo Niño".
The Philippines, unique in Asia
From a religious point of view, the Philippines is unique in the Asia, because it is the only country with a dominating Christian religion. In 2003 ninety percent of the Filipinos is Christian! A remarkable difference with Indonesia, where 95 percent of the people is Islamite. A great difference with other countries in de the region too. Buddhism is dominating in countries like China and Thailand for instance.
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Mountain tribes in Northern Luzon
Traveling to the northern part of the island Luzon will bring you not only to beautiful landscapes with amazing rice terraces. It will bring you also to the regions with remote villages and colorful and traditional living upland tribal communities. Their ancestors constructed the fascinating rice terraces with the perfect working irrigation systems. These mountain tribes still distinguish themselves by their specific cultural expression and their skills.
They have skills in making bowls, baskets, weapons and clothing. It were the Bontocs and the Ifugao people who built up the rice terraces. Traveling in the provinces of Ifugao or other provinces in Luzon, will make clear to you that the way of living of these people didn't change. They are still living and working as in the past. Many tourists decide to make the long bus-trip from Manila to these provinces especially to meet the Ifugao, the Bontocs, the Kankanays or other tribes.
n the past the Ifugao were feared head-hunters, just as other tribes in the mountainous regions of northern Luzon. The war-dance (the bangibang) is one of the cultural remnants of the time of tribal conflict
This dance is traditionally held on the walls of the rice terraces by the men, equipped with spears, axes and wooden shields and a headdress made of leaves.
Typical houses of the Ifugao
The Ifugao build their houses on piles. The pyramid-shaped roof is used as a bedroom, kitchen and storeroom. All in one space! There are no windows. To please the gods, the skull of a sacrificed pig is fixed on the outside of the house. The residents still live in the same type of houses as their ancestors.
Skills of the Ifugao
The Ifugao still practice the same skills as in the past: Woodcarving and weaving clothes. They discovered the tourists as a welcome client for their products in a time that the most young Ifugao prefer Western clothes.
Not in the culture of the Ifugao. Like with the Bontocs, their funerals are not only a sad event because of the lost of the person. There is also a celebration during days, because of the believe of a better life after death. Six years after the body is buried, the bones are dug up, after which a second celebration will take place. This is one time repeated after another six years.
Monday, March 5, 2007
Visitor Information - What the Traveller Must Know
TIME ZONE - GMT plus 8 hours.
GETTING THERE
Manila, Cebu, Davao, Clark, Subic, and Laoag are the international gateways. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila is the premier gateway. It is served by more than 30 airlines which fly to different cities around the world.
The Mactan International Airport (MIA) in Cebu handles regular flights from Japan, Singapore and Australia, as well as chartered flights from Hong Kong, the United States and other major travel capitals. Davao International Airport handles regular flights from Indonesia and Singapore. The Diosdado Macapagal International Airport and Subic airfield in Central Luzon service both chartered and cargo planes. Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte services regular flights from Taiwan and Macau.
Philippine Airlines, the country's flag carrier, links Manila to 14 cities in 8 countries. Major cruise liners call on the port of Manila.
ENTRY REGULATIONS
Valid passport. Except for stateless persons and those from countries with which the Philippines has no diplomatic relations, all visitors may enter the country without visas and may stay for 21 days provided they have tickets for onward journey. Holders of Hong Kong and Taiwan passports must have special permits. Visas and special permits may be obtained from Philippine embassies and consulates.
HEALTH REGULATIONS
A certificate of vaccination against yellow fever is required for travelers coming from an infected areas.
AIRPORT INFORMATION
Airport and Facilities: Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is 7 kms. from the city center while the Manila Domestic Airport is one km. from the NAIA. The international airports have adequate traveler facilities: duty-free and souvenir shops, meet and assist personnel at the tourist information and assistance counters, hotel and travel agency representatives, car rental services, banks and automated teller machines, postal service, national and international direct dial telephone booths, medical clinics, and baggage deposit areas.
Facilities for the Physically-Handicapped: The airports are handicapped-friendly. Wheelchairs are available on request from the airline ground staff.
Customs: Visitors are advised to fill in the Baggage Declaration Form before disembarking to facilitate Customs examination. The following are allowed duty-free: reasonable quantity of clothes, jewelry, and toiletries; 400 sticks of cigarettes or two tins of tobacco; two bottles of wine or spirits of not more than one liter each.
Porterage: Baggage carts are available for free. Porter services are also free. Tipping is traditional.
Airport Transfers: Visitors are advised to avail of accredited fixed rate or metered taxis at the NAIA's Arrival Area. At the Manila Domestic Airport, accredited transfer services are available on pre-paid coupon basis. Other airports are served by metered taxis. All airports have counters for hotel transport and car rental service.
Airport Fees: P550 for international departure and P200 for local departure (paid in Philippine pesos only). Departing passengers for international destinations are advised to check with airport or tourist information counters (Tel. Nos 525-2000; 832-2964) for prevailing departure fees which may change without notice.
Automated Teller Machine: American Express
Duty-Free Shopping: Duty-Free Philippines near the NAIA is the country's largest duty free outlet carrying quality imported items and selected Philippine export products.
CLIMATE
March to May is hot and dry. June to October is rainy. November to Februar is cool. Average temperatures: 78 F / 25 C to 90 F/ 32 C; humidity: 77%
WHAT TO WEAR
Light, casual clothes are recommended. Warmer garments are needed for mountain regions. When visiting churches and temples, propriety dictates that shorts and scanty clothing be avoided. Formal occasions require dinner jackets and ties (or the Philippine barong tagalog) for men and cocktail dresses or long gowns for women.
CURRENCY
Unit of currency: Peso (PhP) = 100 centavos. Bank notes: P10, P20, P50, P100, P200, P500 and P1,000. Coins: 5c, 10c, 25c, P1, P5, P10.
TIPPING
Tipping is expected for many services. The standard practice is 10% of the total bill. Tipping is optional on bills that already include a 10% service charge.
LOCAL TRANSPORT
By air, Philippine Airlines (Tel. No. 855-9999), Air Philippines (855-9000), Cebu Pacific (636-4938) provided daily services to major cities and towns. Asian Spirit (851-8888), Laoag International Airlines (551-9729), and Seair (891-8708) service the missionary routes. There are also scheduled chartered flights to major domestic destinations serviced by smaller commuter planes.
By sea, interisland ships connect Manila to major ports. Ferry services connect the smaller islands.
By land, Philtranco connects Manila to Bicol in Southern Luzon to Samar and Leyte in the Visayas and Davao in Mindanao.
Metered and fixed rate taxis are widely available in key cities nationwide. Jeepneys and buses are inexpensive ways of getting around most places. In Metro Manila the fastest way of commuting is via the railway system. The Light Rail Transport or LRT connects the northern district of Monumento to the southern district of Baclaran with stations situated at major intersections.
The Metro Rail Transport or MRT traverses the length of LRT2 EDSA and connects North Avenue in Quezon City to Taft Avenue in Pasay City, passing through the major arteries of Makati's financial district.
LANGUAGE
Filipino is the national language. English is the business language and widely spoken.
ACCOMMODATIONS
In Metro Manila, key cities and towns throughout the country, a wide selection of de luxe, standard, economy and pension-type accommodations is available. In island destinations, there is a variety of resorts ranging from de luxe to special interest category.
The Department of Tourism has a Homestay Program in several destinations outside Manila. The program offers visitors the comfort of modest homes and an insight into Philippine life. For information, contact the Tourist Information Center at Room 106, Department of Tourism Building, tel. nos. 524-2384 / 524-1703.
DINING OUT
Filipino food is an exotic, tasteful blend of Oriental, European, and American culinary influences. There is a wide variety of fresh seafood and delectable fruits. First class restaurants offer gourmet specialties as well as Filipino cuisine.
ENTERTAINMENT AND CULTURE
Metro Manila is the center of entertainment and cultural activities. The premier venue for the performing arts, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, features world-class performances by local and international guest artists. Museums located in Manila and in some parts of the country offer a glimpse of Philippine history and culture. Art galleries exhibit the works of the country's leading and promising visual artists.
Manila's nightlife is one of the most vibrant in Asia, reflecting the Filipino's love for music. The hubs of nightlife activities are the Remedios Circle in Malate, Ayala Center and The Fort at Bonifacio Global City in Makati, Timog and Tomas Morato Avenues in Quezon City, Ortigas Center in Mandaluyong and Pasig Cities, and Eastwood in Libis, Quezon City. Clubs, music lounges, pubs, and sing-along bars feature Filipino bands and singers known for their exceptional musical talent. De luxe hotels offer a variety of live musical entertainment. Concerts and stage plays form part of the country's entertainment scene.
For visitors who want to try their luck at the gaming tables there are casinos in Metro Manila and in the cities of Angeles, Olongapo, Tagaytay, Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, and Laoag.
SHOPPING
Visitors can choose from an exciting selection of great buys in a country known for export-quality items at reasonable prices: South Sea pearls, handwoven cloths, embroidered fineries, fashionable ready-to-wear and haute couture clothes, terra-cota, porcelain, coral and mother-of-pearl home accessories. Artifacts, pineapple fiber shirts, prehistoric jars, native handicrafts, and footwear are interesting items, too. The Philippines also produces fine furniture, basketry, fresh and processed fruits, exquisitely crafted jewelry, and gift items made of shell, wood, and stone.
Big malls are located in major cities of Metro Manila, while handicraft, antique and curio shops abound at the Ermita District in Manila and in other nearby towns in the metro's environs.
BUSINESS AND BANKING HOURS
Private and government offices are open either from 8 am to 5 pm or from 9 am to 6 pm. Some private companies hold office on Saturdays from 9 am to 12 noon. Most shopping malls, department stores, and supermarkets are open from 10 am to 8 pm daily. There are 24-hour convenience stores and drugstores.
Banks are open from 9 am to 3 pm, Mondays to Fridays, with automated teller machines (ATM) operating 24 hours.
CREDIT CARDS
International credit cards such as Visa, Diners Club, Mastercard, and American Express Card are accepted in major establishments.
ELECTRICITY
220 volts, A.C. 60 cyles. Most hotels have 110-volt outlets.
WATER
Water in Metro Manila and in key cities and towns is potable and safe for drinking. Bottled water is available in many hotels, restaurants, resorts, supermarkets, and convenience stores.
COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES
The country has international and national direct dial phone and facsimile service, mobile phone sites, internet and e-mail facilities, and worldwide express delivery service. The postal system is efficient.
Most national dailies are in English. Foreign publications are sold at major hotels, malls, and bookstores in Metro Manila and key cities. 7 national television stations broadcast mainly in Filipino. Cable TV is available in many hotels in Manila and in many parts of the country.
CONVENTION FACILITIES
Manila, the pioneer convention city in Asia, has played host to a number of prestigious international events. The Philippine International Convention Center is equipped with modern convention facilities and services. It can accommodate 4,000 delegates in its Plenary Hall and 5,700 persons in its Reception Hall. The World Trade Center near the PICC can hold huge exhibitions and events. Smaller meetings can be held in hotels and other establishments. Out-of-town hotels and resorts are alternative convention sites.
MEDICAL SERVICES
Hospitals in the country are equipped with modern facilities to meet any medical need. In some remote towns and cities, clinics and health centers provide emergency medical attention. Most hotels and resorts provide medical assistance. Hospitals are listed in the "Yellow Pages" of the local telephone directory.
TOURS AND SPECIAL INTEREST ACTIVITIES
Tour packages, from day trips to five-day programs, are special ways of discovering the Philippines and its wealth of culture. Special interest activities include golfing, game-fishing, diving, white-water rafting and other aquasports, trekking, spelunking, and safari trips.
| Philippine Tour Operators Association (Philtoa) Tel. (632) 812-4513 / 893-0284 Website: www.philtoa.com |
| Philippine Travel Agent Association (PTTA) Tel: (632) 552-0026 - 29 Website: www.ptaa.org.ph |
| Hotel & Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP) Tel: (632) 816-2421 / 816-2405 / 816-2422 Website: www.dotpcvc.gov.ph/hrap/HRAP.html |
| The Philippine Hotel Federation, Inc. Tel: (632) 818-5160 Email: info@philhotelfed.com |
| DOT Tourism Information Center Rm 106 Ground Floor, DOT Building, TM Kalaw St., Mla Tel: (632) 524-2384 Fax: (632) 524-1703o Website: www.wowphilippines.com.ph / www.wowpinoy.com.net Email: mrreyes@tourism.gov.ph |
Explore the Philippines' Wealth of Wonders
The country may be accessed through 5 international gateways. One can explore other interesting destinations and venture out of these gateways by land, sea, or air.
MANILA offers many places of interest that are easily accessible for day excursions: Intramuros, the Walled city of Old Manila; Nayong Pilipino, a theme park that showcases in small scale the country's famous landmarks; Rizal Park, a tribute to the country's national hero; museums and some of Asia's most modern and biggest shopping malls. From Manila, the country's premiere gateway, one can access the following destinations by land:
· Cavite/Tagaytay City/Laguna/Batangas/Quezon
· Isabela/Cagayan
· Banaue/Bontoc/Sagada
· Baguio
· Bulacan/Pampanga
· Tarlac/La Union/Pangasinan
· Daet/Legaspi/Sorsogon
Being the country's capital, other international gateway and secondary travel gateway cities and provinces can be accessed by air or sea.
LAOAG is the international gateway at the northernmost province in Luzon, Ilocos Norte. Aside from offering a variety of destinations within the province, the city is also an access point to:
· Ilocos Sur
· La Union/Pangasinan
· Baguio/Bontoc/Sagada/Banaue
SUBIC, the most recent addition to the country's list of international ports, offers both rest and recreation and adventure. It serves as a most convenient gateway to:
· Bataan/Zambales/Pampanga/Tarlac
CEBU, the country's first capital and dubbed as the "Queen City of the South" offers diverse attractions and facilities to cater to every tourist preference. Due to its location in the Visayas, it also acts as a major hub to cities in the Visayas and Mindanao, either by air or sea.
· Bohol, a favorite satellite destination from Cebu, may be accessed by fast seacraft
DAVAO offers an array of colors, shapes, tastes and textures that manifest a fusion of indigenous Filipino and Malay culture. In terms of land area, it is the biggest city in the world, part of which is already the base of the country's highest peak, Mount Apo. Situated in the eastern part of Mindanao, Davao acts as the international gateway to its neighboring provinces:
· Davao Oriental
· Davao del Sur
· Compostela Valley
SECONDARY TRAVEL GATEWAYS
To experience more the country's wealth of wonders, the country its dotted with strategically located secondary gateways, which can give the tourists more convenient travel connections to more remote provinces and island destinations.
BATANGAS CITY, located 3 hours south of Manila, offers its renowned dive sites and beach resorts. From the city pier, fast ferries and other sea vessels may connect the traveler to:
· Mindoro Oriental and Occidental
· Romblon
· Marinduque
LEGASPI CITY is one's front seat to the spectacle of the Bicol region, the world renowned Mayon Volcano, and the jump-off point to eco-tourism sites. Land and sea connections are available from this gateway to:
· Camarines Norte and Sur
· Sorsogon
· Catanduanes
· Masbate
TACLOBAN CITY is the gateway to Eastern Visayas, whose strategic location made it a perfect landing site for Gen. Douglas MacArthur and the American troops that liberated the Philippines from the Japanese forces during World War II. From the city, one can venture out to:
· Samar/Leyte
ILOILO CITY in Western Visayas boasts of a number of historical attractions which include churches and ancestral houses, as well as good beaches. Land and sea transportation connects Iloilo to Boracay, which is hailed as one of the best beaches in the world, and other quieter places in the region:
· Panay provinces/Aklan-Boracay
· Negros Occidental (Bacolod City)
· Negros Oriental (Dumaguete City)
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY is the capital of Palawan, known for its amazing species of wildlife and marine life, and the jump-off point to:
· Southern Palawan
· Northern Palawan
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY is the gateway to picturesque Mindanao. The following destinations offer visitors an array of power-packed adventure activities such as white water rafting, kayaking, canopy walking, and surfing:
· Camiguin Island
· Misamis Oriental/Lanao del Norte
· Agusan del Norte and Sur
· Surigao Norte and Sur
· Bukidnon
ZAMBOANGA CITY offers a glimpse into the culture of 5 colorful tribal groups living in harmony with the Christian community. It is the gateway to the charming attractions and indigenous craft of the following exotic places:
· Zamboanga del Norte
· Zamgoanga del Sur
