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Roxas Boulevard has changed a lot through time. Back in the 1900s, before it has become a prime location for condo for sale in the metro, Roxas Boulevard is just part of Architect Daniel Burnham's beautification plan for the City of Manila. It used to be known as the Cavite Boulevard. It was later on changed to Dewey Boulevard to honor the American Admiral who defeated the Spanish fleet at the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American war, George Dewey. It was again changed during the Japanese occupation, to Heiwa Boulevard.

It has been rooted to our culture to rename popular streets to that of the former presidents and other historical figures to pay tribute. Roxas Boulevard got its name from the fifth president of the Philippines, Manuel Roxas.

But the name behind Roxas Boulevard isn’t just the factor that made it famous for what it is right now and a suitable place to look for condos for sale. If you have ever been within the area, you will notice that the boulevard is a home for some the country’s most important point of interest such as the Manila Bay, Rizal Park, the CCP Complex, Senate of the Philippines, and more. This will make it quite understandable why Roxas Boulevard could be consider one of the busiest streets in the country in terms the number of events that are hosted within the area. If you are looking for fun activity to do this time of the year, the following events might interest you:

Timeless Classics: PPO 34th Concert Season 2016–2017
If classical music is your kind of jam, the Philippine Philharmonic lead by the conductor Yoshikazu Fukumura will be doing another show this April 21, 2017, 8PM, at the CCP Main Theater, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City. Ticket price starts at P306. For more information, click here.

AWCP Bazaar 2017
Fans of handmade crafts, rejoice! This year could be a good time for you as The American Women’s Club of the Philippines will be holding bazaars every month all year round. The proceeds of the said bazaar will be used by the association in raising funds for local charities supporting health, education, culture and growth for families of the Philippines. The next bazaar was held last 4^th of April at SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. To become a vendor at the bazaar, click here. For more information about the event, click here.

Gloriously Broadway... SISTER ACT
In 1992, Whoopi Goldberg has starred on one of the funniest movie of all time, Sister Act. This year, the movie will come to Broadway here in the Philippines. The musical will feature original music and score with a big Broadway sound written by the most acclaimed composer and eight-time Oscar winner Alan Menken. Sister Act the Musical will be running for a limited 2 weeks starting June 27 up until July 29 at Solaire Resort & Casino, 1 Aseana Avenue, Entertainment City, Parañaque City. For ticket reservations, click here.

These are just some of the events that will be happening this 2017 within Roxas Boulevard. Proving yet another advantage that you can you can get if you are to avail a condo for sale in the area.

It is not only the real estate sector of Davao thrives which is evident on the for sale condominiums that sprout left and right in the area. The tourism card could play well on Davao’s economy and there is a fat chance it could be one of millennial females’ top travel destinations. What’s up with Davao and it could mix well with this generation?

First, let us identify what a millennial is. According to Pew Research Center, millennials, also known as the ‘Generation Y,’ are those ages 18-34 in 2015. And millenials are certified wanderlusts. They love to travel and discover new places. Furthermore, Forbes says they are considered as the “sociable generation” both offline and online.

As stated in the Atlantic, “the UN estimates that 20 percent of all international tourists, or nearly 200 million travelers, are young people and that this demographic generates more than $180 billion in annual tourism revenue.” The city of Davao is one of the places on Earth that takes advantage of this fact. Davao’s tourism package is designed for millennial’s travel preferences based on a survey conducted by MMGY Global:

Play golf = strangely, this generation is interested in a business sport like golf. Two of the best golf courses in the Philippines are in Davao, based on a list by Golfing Philippines, namely, the Rancho Palos Verdes and Apo Golf & Country Club.

Loves water sports = try white water rafting at Davao Wild Water Adventure Rafting Company; ride the waves while on a wakeboard at Deca Wakeboard Park; or go under the sea at Angels Cove. For more water adventure see Philippines' Best Diving Sites.

Enjoys hiking/climbing/biking = you can find the highest volcano and mountain in the Philippines in Davao, the Mount Apo. Are you game to hit the rough terrain while riding a bike? Here’s the list of mountain biking guides and trips from Everytrail.

Visits spas = although millennials seem always on the go, they also find time to pause, relax, and rejuvenate like indulging themselves with a soothing massage. Fortunately, in an article on Sunstar, it says there that “Davao Wellness Association (DavWell) is gearing up to make the spa and wellness industry as a tourist attraction… in Davao City…”

Enjoys shopping = in Forbes, “female millennials in particular regard shopping as a group activity, shopping twice as often with their spouses, friends or family members as do non-millennial women.” Davao has Abreeza Mall, Matina Town Square, SM City Davao, and Aldevinco Shoppng Centers among others.

Wants to try new and unusual cuisines = Davao has different local cuisines to choose from like puto maya, rekado, wild berry, pancit luglug, bulca chong and the durian coffee. Durian. Coffee.

Third on the list is safety of the destination. In a statement by Jennifer Hoddevik on Motto - Time, one of the founders of Travel Yogi, “safety when traveling solo is a fair concern [by female milllennials]…” Whether you are a seasoned explorer or a resident in one of the for sale Davao condominiums, you don’t have to worry about your safety. According to Numbeo, Davao is the 22nd safest city in Asia with a score of 73.34 and this could be the primary reason female millennials prefer Davao as their next tourist destination.

Summer in the Philippines has been on a wild rage as of late with the El Nino surge.

On April 17, the temperature in Metro Manila has reached a new year-high, setting a record of 37.5°C, proving that this year is one of the warmest years that we have experienced in the recent times and it is not just because of the fierce Presidential Election. In fact, it is too warm that even in the peak of summer, people are having second-thoughts of traveling to a summer place to enjoy the sun. Most people would rather coop up inside their condos in Quezon City or Cubao, turn up their air conditioning units, and watch Netflix while posting episode spoilers on social media sites.

But for those who truly want to beat the heat without traveling too far, we have some good news for you: Cubao and Quezon City aren’t just good places to purchase a condo. Nowadays you can find venues within the Metro that will allow you to enjoy the summer while fighting the weather.

Go Ice Skating at Mall of Asia
The Mall of Asia in Pasay will slide you onto a cool place to beat the summer heat. Ice skating could be an excellent way to escape from the warm weather and to learn a new skill. SM Skating Rink offers varying prices that will surely accommodate ice skaters and ice skating enthusiast. There are even group packages and assist program for beginners. And when you get tired from all the skating, you can go visit some of the shops around the mall.

Visit Snow World at Star City
Star City is not just known for its thrilling rides, but also for its wonderful attraction. For a cheap additional fee, you can slide and roll down the icy slopes of Snow World to your heart’s content and free yourself from the summer fever. You may also enjoy some other fun activities while you are at Star City such as the Lazer Blaster, Scream Dome, and Mini Golf—half of the full facility is air-conditioned, after all.

Treat Yourself to a Serving of Halo-Halo
Filipino’s all-time favorite summer treat will always be halo-halo. There are many amazing restaurants around Quezon City that offers great halo-halo like Kabigting’s and Little Quiapo. But if you are looking for a cheap way to cool down from the weather, a home-made halo-halo will do just fine. A quick trip to Quezon City Farmer’s market will score you all the fresh ingredients you need to whip up that summer treat.

Don’t let the heat beat you up! Get up from your couches and visit these amazing locations to fight the heat that is taking over the country!

Hotels in Mandaluyong City are now all set this holiday season. Well, it isn’t just the city of Mandaluyong but the whole country as well. As always, the Philippines starts celebrating Christmas since the start of the “ber” months. It is not just the hotels, malls, and other business establishments that are all spruced up but also houses, big or small, never miss to join in the festivities. Some are lavishly decorated while others are content hanging one or two parols (Christmas lantern) outside. If you have a tight budget, there are places where you can witness amazing Christmas displays for free.

Free?! Interested now, aren’t we? Here are the top picks ready for exploration:

Policarpio Street in Mandaluyong City

It is quite normal to see houses decorated with Christmas decors but this one is definitely a perfect 10. Mandaluyong Hotels can’t pull this stunt because the tenants will surely cry in protest due to high electrical fees and expensive decorations.

Instagram/jacobthebomb_

Yep, Policarpio Street did it again and its charm never fades. This ordinary street becomes a main Christmas attraction in Mandaluyong City by nighttime. This annual tradition was started by the Lim, Dalisay and Suva families on 1996. The decorations and lights are breathtaking as ever. While you feed your eyes, you can satiate your hunger by stopping over food stalls in the area.

Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati City

Makati City is not just the center of commerce in the Philippines but also a source of fun and entertainment. Every year Ayala Triangle Gardens holds an event called “Festival of Lights”, which is a lights and sounds show. The theme this year is “Beats and Hues” with three different light shows. It first plays a big band and jazz music, followed by African drumbeats, and topped off with electronic dance music.

ayalatriangle.com

This event is also recognized by an international travel magazine, the Conde Nast Traveler last year. Ayala Triangle Gardens was mentioned on their list of one of the places in the world to see spectacular Christmas lights.

It will run until January 3, 2016 from 6 pm to 10 pm.

Greenhills Shopping Center

Besides the annual sale for the holidays, the Christmas Bangketa Fair, which kicked off on November 13 and lasts until December 31, another reason to go back at Greenhills Shopping Center is the Christmas on Display (COD). It is a moving mannequin show which was originally started at COD Department Stores in Avenida but now, its current home is at Greenhills.

clickthecity.com

This year’s theme is called “The First Christmas” and it is about the journey of the Three Kings. The show runs until January 4, 2015 which lasts for 15 minutes and starts at 6:30 pm until 11:30 pm.

Giant Lantern Festival in Pampanga

Pampanga is not only the “Food Capital” of the country; the famed province is the “Christmas Capital” as well. December is their busiest month of the year because it is packed with must-see places and events. Pampanga Day (Aldo Ning Kapampangan) is celebrated every December 11. It is an event with colorful floats, street dancing and a beauty pageant called Mutya Ning Kapampangan.

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In Guagua, Pampanga, a mini-Christmas village was setup by the Peña family inside their home. At Santa Rita, their latest gimmick is a rainbow Christmas (neither white nor blue, make that ROYGBIV).

Let us not forget the reason why it is the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines.” On December 19 the Giant Lantern Festival 2015 will start with 11 participants showcasing their magnificent creations.

It is not just the malls and hotels in Mandaluyong where you can spend Christmas with family and friends. Every city and province in the country has its own Christmas attraction worth your time and wonder.

We will explore the Philippines to find our top picks for travel destinations, and today, we will discover the Province of Palawan. Let us take a bird’s eye view of this majestic place and see how beautiful it is. I have prepared a few videos to get us started. I hope you will like it. Maybe one of these days, we will see each other having a vacation there.

Adventure Teaser: An Island Overview Here is a video showing Palawan from the Air, a wonderfully made and I really made me really want to go there! I love this one! The Island is ranked as number one TOP Islands in the World!

Isn’t it lovely? It excites me, how I wish to go there with a special someone. I will buy tickets and book a hotel in Palawan right away! Truly the place is overwhelming with beauty and is a true wonder of nature. This is just a teaser, what more can we see with the different islands in there? Let us continue our adventure.

El Nido: Heaven on Earth
This is one of the Islands in Palawan, the El Nido. There are lots of activities that can be done here including the exploration of the hidden beach behind towering limestone, snorkeling, diving, and many more! Here is a video from GoPro Philippines adventure.

This marvelous work of nature is really worth visiting! This island is a living proof of heaven on earth. Experience the great landscape and exciting activities. This is one of the best island hoping destinations with great food, nature discovery and sceneries.

Puerto Princesa: Nature at its Finest
Did you know that Puerto Prinsesa is one of the newly announced Seven Wonders of the World? The place is very proud to present the Underground River. This is a very unique and exquisite river with various ecosystems and wild life. Scientific discoveries were also found on this underground river. See the video below and be amazed!

Feeling the urge to travel already? Wait, there is still another island that will surely take your breath away.

Coron: Divers Paradise
If you think that you are already sold out to the two islands above, you just have to see this diving haven with the very unique characteristic. This diving site has a thermocline! Experience different temperatures under water and see if there are barracudas in it.

What a very exciting trip waiting for us in there!

That’s it folks, now that you have watched our top picks, grab that travel bag of yours, book your tickets and see you there!

Cebu showcases the best of the best tourist attractions. While staying in the province, you can also add on your itinerary a water adventure. Water Adventure? Yes, Cebu is not only a home of oldest churches or historical places but it also has beautiful beaches that you will enjoy!

After showing the Cebu's historical places you may visit, it’s time to relax and enjoy the nature.

Just like the other provinces of Philippines, Cebu has its unique identities that everyone for sure to enjoy. Packed your things from your hotel in Cebu and let’s explore the most exciting part of your trip. Below is the list of the beaches you may visit.

Malaspascua Island

Camotes Islands

Moalboal

Oslob

See: Best Diving Places in the Philippines.

Bantayan Island

Cebu, Cebu City, what are the things comes out in your mind when you were here the City of Cebu? For me, it is the battle between Lapu-lapu and Magellan and the Magellan’s Cross. Those names are what I learned from my Sibika class when I was in grade school.

Cebu is the oldest city in the Philippines and home of old churches. Cebu is full of histories that are interesting to discover. Did you know that before the Spaniards come, the city of Cebu is known as fishing and trading village trades with other countries in Asia? And how Magellan introduces Christianity to the Cebuanos?

Getting interested? Get your laptop and find a ticket and Cebu's hotel because this will be fun. For now, let’s explore the historical places in the province.

1. Basilica del Santo Nino
The Basilica Del Santo Nino or Minor Basilica of the Holy Child is considered as the oldest Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines. The church was built on the spot when the image of Santo Nino de Cebu was found by a Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi.
The church was damaged when a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Visayas on October 2013.

2. Magellan’s Cross
The cross is a Christian cross planted by Ferdinand Magellan, who introduces Roman Catholic when he arrived in Cebu while exploring the Atlantic Ocean to Pacific Ocean. The Magellan’s Cross is located next to the Basilica del Santo Nino.

3. Lapu-lapu Shrine
The monument was built to honor Lapu-lapu, for defeating the Spaniards in the battle of Mactan. Lapu-lapu is the could be the first native Filipino hero. The statue was said to be in the exact spot where he fought and killed Magellan.

4. Fort San Pedro
The Fort San Pedro was built by the Spaniards and indigenous Cebuano laborers under the command of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, a Spanish conquistador, to stop the Muslim raiders. It is the smallest and oldest tri-bastion fort in the Philippines. The fort is located at the Plaza Indepedencia in the pier area of Cebu.

5. Colon Street
The colon street is the shortest and oldest street in the country. It witnesses many events during Spaniards time. Miguel Lopez de Legazpi the one who design the town structure.

Have you booked a promo ticket at Air Asia or Cebu Pacific for your Iloilo Adventure? You should, there are lots adventures waiting for you. Don’t forget to find affordable hotel in Iloilo.

Iloilo is known as the heart of the Philippines and when you visit the province, you will be inlove to its exotic beauty. The province never fails to amaze visitors in her natural and historical attractions.

The past is waiting for you to discover the present. Iloilo is full of history that you should discover, she is waiting for you.

If you love the island hopping, really, Iloilo is best for you. See and be in love with the enchanting beauty of Isla de Gigantes. According to the Ilonggos, the island is the City of Giants long time ago.

The island is formed in different big stones, with white sands and clear water. There are 10 islands can be found here and the famous islands that many tourists visited are the Gigantes Sur and Norte.

The Gigantes Norte has 3 small islands – Isla Baludadiang, Gigantilio and Gigantua. The Bakwitan Cave is one of the famous tourist attractions in Gigantes Norte, to be said the house of Giants. You can discover here the oversized shape of plate, spoon, etc., believes the Giants stuffs. And there is also a big wooded coffin that can be found. It sounds so interesting, right? A history with fun.

The other Island is the Gigantes Sur. The Island to be called as Virgin Island. It has 5 islands the Antonia, Bantigue, Cabugao, Tanguingui and Turnina. You may experience that you are in Thailand at Bantigue Sand Bar especially when low tide. Feel like you are in Blue Lagoon Samantha when visited the Tangke Salt Water Pool.

Philippines is really beautiful, what you need to do is discover and see it on your own. Natural are more beautiful than the man made. Love the country like how you are in love with the other country. Discover Philippines!

Related Articles:
Explore Butuan City
Puerto Princesa, A paradise

Too much attached to the beauty of the Philippines? Here’s another place where you can spend your vacation with the family.

Butuan City is located in Mindanao - the second largest island of the Philippines. The word Butuan is said from the sour fruit “batuan” and once ruled by “Datu Buntuan” according to etymology sources. It became the center of trade and commerce by the 11th century and as the early 10th century, there’s a trading relation between Butuan and Southern Vietnam. Their transportation used in trading is the balangays, a big boat made by Butuan ancestors.

What to visit in Butuan? There are many historical and beautiful places in this Place. Get your backpack and booked at a Butuan Hotel. Let’s go travel.

Nipa Wine Distillery
Make a wine in the traditional way. Laksoy is a local wine from the juice of Nipa Palm of Butuan. Magellan’s Landing Site

Magellan’s Landing Site
Ferdinand Magellan dropped in the City to do the first Mass in the country. The Butuanons celebrated it annually to reminisce the historical event.

Butuan Regional Museum
To know more the beauty and how cultural and historical Butuan is, visit them. The museum is the house of archaeological discoveries, artifacts and cultural memorabilia.

Balangay Shrine Museum
The home of the Balangays boats discovered and used by the ancestors.

Banza Church Ruins
The anza church ruins is the oldest church in Mindanao. It was built by Augustinian friars in 1622 but ruins by the Morons in 1752. The bell tower is the only left.

Related Post:
A City Paradise | Puerto Princesa

Philippines is undeniably rich in natural resources making tourism one of the fast-growing industries today and, in turn, a thriving of hotel enterprises.

Hotels serve as a fusion of flavors and colors of tourism. Hotels in Puerto Princesa are good example of the unified collaboration of good food, service, and peaceful surrounding giving its visitors a sense like home. It takes caring individuals to maintain balance in a city like Puerto Princesa. Puerto Princesans understand the value of nature and stewardship of life’s blessings and the good thing about the people is that they take responsibility on developing what they have.

Puerto Princesa is a perfect place to search for peace, find new friends, be in touch with nature, and witness steady progress at the same time; a forest where you can find hotels, grills and bars to eat and have some leisure time; and a city where you can be at peace, think and appreciate nature. A real “City in a Forest”, Puerto Princesa, as it offers adventure like no other.

Tourists may experience the sense of peace and appreciate silence during the serene voyage across the Underground River. Tourists are advised to bring their own flashlights so they can see the rock formations on the cave. The soft breeze of wind inside adds serenity to the tour, as well as the guano’s smell completing the time travel from the cave formation.

To those who want a bit of thrill, tourists may try scuba diving and encounter the fun world under water. Honda Bay is one of the good diving centers that offer thrill and excitement to its visitors. Scuba diving gives a number of benefits to its diver. Divers have the chance to experience the healing power of water as they submerged their selves underwater. Also, meditative breathing improves mental capacities and stimulates circulation. Tourists will surely enjoy the meet and greet with the abundant marine life.

Others may enjoy traveling from one island to another in delight of the lovely and lush greenery. Travelers have the chance to free their mind and find peace after long weeks of work. Iwahig firefly watching is one the most relaxing things to do during the tour. This activity allows every individual much closer to nature. It would be a perfect time to reminisce memorable moments in life while staring in the fireflies shining brightly in the dark surrounding.

Tummies will surely be happy during the tour as “City in a Forest” offers fresh and mouth-watering seafood delicacies. Equally, tourists cannot resist the tempting Croc Sisig made from crocodile meat, which is low in fat and a good source of protein. They may also try the famous mangrove-infesting wood worm that is actually not a worm! Tamilok, the name of the so-called wood worm, is actually a mollusk that belongs to the same group as the octopus and squid. Tamilok can be eaten raw and fits perfectly with a spoonful of vinegar.

After the tiring and enjoyable day around the city, tourists can cherish the peaceful sound of nature while savoring the good taste of food served in the hotels. Chirping of the birds is like music to the ears while relaxing on the hotel lobby. Tourists replenish their strength with the harmonious atmosphere and give in to the classic taste of seafood or the exotic deep-fried Tamilok. Hotels in Puerto Princesa serve a as a perfect resting place to regain soul of adventure with the similar breeze of wind in the Underground River. Hotels do have the same ambiance of peace, calm, and serenity just like the city itself as it captures the taste and color of nature.

In the Philippines, there are two types of weather we typically encounter, the sunny and the rainy seasons. It seems that sunny season is nearing its end and the rainy season is now knocking in the whole archipelago. In the past few years we encountered different kind of calamities. One of the recent calamities was the attack of typhoon Haiyan in Tacloban that caused heavy rains and floods, wrecked houses and still undetermined number of casualties.

The havoc of Haiyan was one of the devastating stories that the whole world witnessed. It gives Filipino citizens a sense of dread that every time light rain pours in a drizzle we get nervous immediately and worried what will happen next, if another heart-wrenching calamity is on its way.

Because of this, is there a possibility we could change the kind of house that we build in the Philippines? In year 2005, one of the strongest hurricane attacks New Orleans, Pelicans. By the help of Hollywood actor, Brad Pitt, the floating house came into the scene. It can float when the flood starts to rise.

Picture source: phys.org

According to the Bible, God ordered Noah to build an ark that can withstand the force of nature. In the present, there are people who built their houses that boat looks like Noah’s ark. In Agusan Marsh, Agusan Del Sur, Mindanao, the people there are staying in houses that are floating and become as their permanent home. The houses are placed above a plank of wood or bamboo stem. And their learning center is floating in the water as well.

So, that’s one way on how we can adapt to the kind of weather that we encountered here in the Philippines.

Wedding is the very special day to everyone. It takes a year in preparing the requirements and organizing the wedding. We start in choosing the place for the ceremony and reception, then picking the beautiful invitations, souvenir, cakes, gowns, shoes, flowers and other more. After finalizing those stuffs, is there anything else needed? The wedding song, preparing the wedding songs sometimes not in the priorities, which is not bad, but it adds color and sense.

Philippine Wedding Videographers_themesongs

Every song has its own meaning and it’s a reflection of life. Some of the well-known songs make us cry when we heard it and because of the memories behind it. Also, it makes us to remember the precious person and the moment that we had. For wedding, music helps to enhance the atmosphere, tell the story of the couple and adds the sweetness, especially if it is the couple’s theme song. Your favorite songs or music may play as the bride entrance or at the reception. Since this is your day, you are free to list down all your favorite songs. Here are the top wedding songs in the Philippines;

1. Your Love (Alamid)
2. Sa’yo Lamang (Joey Albert)
3. With a Smile (Eraserhead)
4. Kahit maputi na ang Buhok (APO Hiking Society)
5. The Promise (Martin Nievera)
6. Ikaw (Regine Velasquez)
7. Now that I have you (The Company)
8. How did you know (Chiqui Pineda)
9. Forevermore (Side A)
10. Forever (Regine Velasquez and Martin Nievera)
11. I’ll be there (Martin Nievera)
12. The gift (Jim Brickman)
13. Two word (Lea Salonga)
14. Ikaw ang aking pangarap (Martin Nievera)
15. Ikaw lamang (Gary Valencio)

The Philippines is really full of history and structures that remain as a stain of many historical revolutions. As we see those structures that were constructed by our house contractors ancestors, we reminisce the sacrifice of all Filipinos to aim the freedom we had now. These structures really play a very big role in our history and in the present time, it shows as the evidences of all the struggles that our Filipino heroes have gone through. That's why many Filipinos, preserved these structures to remain the memory of sacrifices done till to the next generation of the Filipinos. Here are the 5 historic structures;

Corregidor
Corregidor is a small rock island located near at the entrance of Manila Bay, Philippines. It serves as the headquarters of the brave, heroism Filipinos and American who battled against to the forces of Japanese during World War II. The Island becomes one of the popular destinations in the Philippines because of the images left from the War such as the big guns, cannon, ruin buildings and many more memorabilia of the brave people who fight for the freedom and justice of the Philippines.

Barasoain Church
Barasoain Church is a historical church where the first Philippine Republic was declared. There are three events are happened in this church: the assembling of the “First Philippines Congress”, recruiting the “Malolos Constitution”, and inauguration of the “First Philippine Republic”. This church gets attractive because of the architectural design and lots of history of it.

Leyte Landing Memorial Park
Leyte Landing Memorial Park or McArthur Park is well-visit in the city of Tacloban. It was built to remember the heroic promised of Gen. Douglas McArthur in aiming the freedom of the Filipino against Japanese colonies. It became an important event in Philippines history, especially when Gen. MacArthur said “I shall return”, as a promised to the Filipino citizens.

Magellan’s Cross
Magellan is a Portuguese explorer, the first person who crosses the Atlantic Ocean to Pacific Ocean. He is a servant of King Charles for searching of westward route going to “Spice Island”. His navigation was not accomplished successfully because he was killed during the “Battle of Mactan”. The Cross was planted by Magellan to spread the importance of Roman Catholic. And this Magellan’s cross that can be found in a small chapel was built to give Magellan honor in bringing the Roman Catholics in the city of Cebu.

Lapu-lapu monument
Lapu-lapu’s monument is built to honor Rajah Lapu-lapu, the ruler of Mactan who conquered the battle to Magellan to aim the freedom of his people. Lapu-lapu is the first Filipino or Cebuano hero. His statue in Lapu-lapu City, Cebu is 20 meters bronze.

The Philippines are known for having lots of tourist destination. Beside that, the Philippines is rich with history and culture and it is reflected in the architectural heritage of the country. It became part of Filipinos life, to reminisce the sacrifice and heroic deed of all Filipino heroes. It is not just the historical places, but it also attracts the tourists to visit the country. Through the years, some of the structures undergo maintenance, through construction services and house construction. Here are the 5 leading structures that are famous for the tourist.

Rizal Park
Luneta park or Rizal Park is also known as Bagumbayan, where Dr. Jose Rizal, the national hero executed by the Spaniards. It was built to give honor and salute the national hero who fights through literature against the Spaniards. It became the one of the major attractions in the City of Manila. Nowadays, it became one of the favorite hangout places for refreshments, socializing and bonding with friends and family.

Vigan
Vigan is one of the wonderful heritage place that in the Philippines is located in the northern part of the country. It got famous because of the preserved architectural village. The houses were built during the Spaniards period and this place is listed in the UNESCO world heritage.

Rizal Shrine
Rizal Shrine was built as a dedication to Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippine national hero. The shrine is the home of Rizal memorabilia such as books, artworks, manuscripts, and his shells collected in Dapitan. This shrine has an important role in the history because Dr. Jose Rizal spent his last night here and found by his family, his famous and last poem titled “Mi ultimo adios” or “My last Farewell”.

Fort Santiago Fort Santiago was built in 1571 in the Spaniard period. It is the prison cell of Jose Rizal before he was executed. These days, the Fort Santiago has preserved the history behind of it and also used as a tourist destination.

Intramuros
Intramuros is known as “Walled City”, the oldest district in the Philippines and a historical palace. It is used as the fort of the Spanish government. Today, it has become a tourist destination in the city of Manila, because of the historical events that took place in that walled city.

The list is not yet finished, join me to get know better the history of famous structures in the Philippines until the next post.

See: Best Historical Places in the Philippines Part II

It rivals Boracay’s fine white sand beaches. In the islands of Mindoro, there is a gem called Puerto Galera. Another credential attached to Puerto Galera is being one of the premiere diving destinations in the Philippines. Like its powdery white sand beaches, Puerto Galera has crystalline blue waters full of wonderful surprises under its currents.

More than 30 dive sites, if this number is not enough to quench your thrill for an underwater adventure. A Puerto Galera dive will test your limits. You’ll encounter at least three types of dive: recreational, wreck, and drift diving. We cited a few of these awesome dive spots below:

Sabang Triple Delight
We only made this up for the purpose of highlighting the three Sabang plunges: Sabang Reef, Sabang Bay and Sabang Point. You’ll also be delighted to know it only requires a recreational or beginner level to experience Sabang.

Hole in the Wall
This one is coined as it is, a coral wall with a hole (2m wide) right at it. Although a beginner could try this one, a diver must watch his buoyancy to avoid bumping at the soft and hard corals as he goes thru the hole. Don’t forget to take pictures to relish the moment.

The Canyons
The exhilarating part starts here. Take note that this dive is for advance levels. The Canyons hit the 45th place on CNN Travel best diving site in the world. Definitely, this dive site is worth the try and the risk.

Fish Bowl
We need to remind you first the Fish Bowl is not for the faint heart. When we say you’re going to be sucked in, we’re not exaggerating. Upon descending, a strong current will push you in to the deep blue. Be ready because the sight at the bottom can astound you for the second time. This was not named the Fish Bowl for nothing. Expect a trench shaped-bowl where schools of Barracuda, White Tip Reef Sharks, Tuna and other marine life swirl inside it. Behold a kaleidoscopic scene right before eyes, but make sure to hold on tight – with all your strength.

Japanese, Sabang, and Alma Jane Wrecks
When you see a wreck in land, it is often referred as a junk. Put a wreck under the depths of the sea or ocean it will be a masterpiece – turning into vibrant wreckage adorning the sea floor. Over time, coral communities will populate it. Eventually, school of fishes and other marine life will take over this wreckage and turn it to a habitat.
Colorful, mysterious, and beautiful are the proper descriptions for shipwrecks turn into artificial habitats for underwater flora and fauna. The perfect spots are the Japanese, Sabang, and Alma Jane shipwrecks. Capture the past using your underwater camera.

Kilimar Drift
Do you want to take a drift? Then try the Kilimar Drift. Avoid this one if you’re not an expert drift diver. You’ll not only be injured, it will not be a fun and memorable experience.

Did we somehow convince you to enroll in a crash course, just to take a dive and witness Philippines’ exotic marine life? Remember this is only some of Luzon’s best dive sites, namely, Romblon, Palawan, and Puerto Galera. A country being a part of the famous Coral Triangle has many benefits such as automatically listing the Philippines one of the best diving destinations in the world.

Do you want a kind of underwater experience in a kaleidoscopic level? You don’t need to travel abroad because you’re already at the right place. Diving in the Philippines sites sprouted left and right because of the archipelagic structure and interlinked water systems that contributed to the rich marine biodiversity of the country.

The Philippines is a surplus of dive spots and some are not even yet subject for exploration. One worth mentioning is the Marble Capital of the Philippines, the province of Romblon located almost at the center of the Philippines. Due to its remoteness, Romblon retains its aura of mystery and pristine nature. One of the overlooked tourist destinations in the country, yet it has a way to charm travelers both land and sea.

In the dry regions, lies Spanish-era churches and you can find here one of the challenging peaks in the Philippines, the Mt. Guiting Guiting. Under the land mass, under the depths of its seas, is a diverse marine life. We suggest that before you go there bring a handful of extra batteries, memory cards, and a charger as well.

Romblon boasts thirty dive spots in and around the area. Definitely, a one-day trip would not be enough. Quality beats quantity, so we pick out a few dive hotspots ready for you to discover in no particular order.

Giant Clam Sanctuary

As its name suggests, it serves as a sanctuary for giant clams that lies beneath the sandy surface of the sea. Situated near Tiamban beach, this protected area is open for viewing all year round.

Cobrador Sunken Island (CSI)

Do you want to see an island covered with corals? Sunken Island or Takot Reef Is a submerged island is might be the right dive for you. Starting at a ten-meter mark and going down a slope for about thirty meters. A plethora of photo subjects is within a click such as different fish species, nudibranchs, and cuttlefish. You can visit the Sunken Island any time of the year.

Carmen’s Cliff

If you’re tired of the typical horizontal view you can switch to portrait mode at Carmen’s Cliff. Near the shores of Tablas Island, its vertical wall is akin to a painter’s canvass or graffiti wall. Prepare to be amaze at a wall decorated with vivid coral communities. At a close inspection, you may spot swarm fishes, sharks, mantas, and eagle rays swimming around the area.

Blue Hole

From above the skies, a blue hole is like a black blot on the blue landscape of a sea or an ocean. It is not Mother Nature’s imperfection. Conversely, a blue hole is one of her wonders she used to fuel the curiosity of men. By chance, our country has one and it is located in the waters of Tablas Island, Romblon. You may want to instantly enroll in the nearest Philippine diving course school because only expert divers can manage a more or less 32m in deep descent. It cradles rays, tuna, snapper, surrounded with a coral wall and garden. Small white tip reef sharks mingle at the bottom.

Time Square

Another Tablas Island dive spot. Contrary to its popular name, expect a remote dive in this area. Time Square is an isolated area great for snorkeling. Ready for a non-stop lens capture as you meet wondrous sea creatures like fusilier fishes, surgeonfishes, breathtaking coral formations, nudibranchs, and moray eels.

Still can’t get enough of Philippines’ spectacular diving sites? The list is not yet finished and by the end of this, you can plot your own diving saga.

How to be in love with the Philippines? Many Tourists know this country because of the beaches and many beautiful vacation spots and also because of the nature it has and the weather. But many of them have become one of the fans because of the foods that can be tasted in the country. It’s a taste that brings you home. Since the summer in the Philippines is getting started, many of the turista (tourist) prepare their things to visit Philippines for scuba diving and also taste again the food what Filipino really proud of.

What are the Philippines cuisines?

Lechon

courtesy of Google Images

Lechon Baboy (pig), it is influenced by Spanish. It is a roasted pig, cooked in charcoal while being stung in a bamboo. It's become a national dish in the Philippines, it is typically served on special occasions such as Christmas, fiesta, reunion and etc,. The city of Cebu serves the most delicious lechon in the Philippines.

Adobo

courtesy of Google Images

A popular dish that consists of meat, vinegar, garlic, peppercorn, oil, bay leaf and soy sauce. Filipino citizen considers this as “Pambasang Ulam (national dish)”. Typically the meat of the adobo is chicken and pork, but today some Chef try to cook seafood in it. Also, this local food can be tasted in the snack flavored as adobo.

Sinigang

courtesy of Google Images

One of the favorite dishes of the Filipino. A soup tastes sour because of the flavor of tamarind. It is cooked with the ingredients of meat, tamarind, vegetable, onions, siling berde (pepper green), and tomatoes. Mangoes and kamias can be a replacement with tamarind and shrimp, chicken and fish for the meat.

Kare-kare

courtesy of Google Images

It consists vegetables, meat and serves with bagoong. Traditionally, it serves in fiestas, at the province of Pampanga without kare-kare, the fiesta is cannot be considered complete.

Tapa

courtesy of Google Images

A beef fried or grilled is served at breakfast together with sinangag (fried rice) and fried egg.

Crispy pata

courtesy of Google Images

A crispy, delicious and juicy leg of the pig, add vinegar sauce for the better taste. It has lots of cholesterol, so watch out and don’t eat too much.

Pancit

courtesy of Google Images

Noodles dish in the Filipino cuisine that symbolizes “long life and good health”. It is typically served on birthdays.

Lumpia

courtesy of Google Images

A fresh and fried roll dish that consists of vegetables inside. Lumpiang sariwa and lumpiang pirito, how it called in the Philippines. And for dessert, a sweet deep fried roll with saba banana is what you can eat and it is called as turon.

Halo-halo

courtesy of Google Images

A Filipino known dessert, combinations of shaved ice, condensed milk, ube, leche plan, macapuno, beans, mongo, banana, sago, gulaman, jackfruit and ice cream. It is best to eat contrast with the hot and sunny summer weather.

Want to taste any of them? Dive Philippines and discover it. Come and visit the country!

Dive Resort Philippines

Want a resorts o place where you enjoy scuba diving, an ideal place? Here are the top Dive Resorts Philippines destination where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving all in one.

PUERTO GALERA - It is located in Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. This place is well known for numerous beaches and snorkeling and Scuba diving spots. It is considered as one of the most delightful and developed beach resort in the Philippines. This bay is the only bay in the Philippines listed by the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World.

courtesy of Google Images

CABILAO ISLAND – Cabilao is a small island located in Bohol. The Island is encompassed by a coral reef that falls steeply down to in the ballpark of 50 meters. Those people that already experience diving in Cabilao, described this island as true Diver's Paradise.

courtesy of Google Images

BALICASAG ISLAND – Balicasag Island also located in Bohol. This island has crystal blue waters provide a clear vivid view of its corals, fishes like Whale Shark Philippines and other marine life. An excellent place for snorkeling and diving, what other said.

courtesy of Google Images

APO ISLAND - This Island is located in Negros Oriental, Dumaguete City, Philippines. Apo Island is known as best composed marine sanctuaries, and it is documented by the global science community. This island has a unique rock formation and surrounded of white sand.

courtesy of Google Images

TUBBATAHA REEF NATIONAL PARK – This place is located at Sulu Sea in Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan. Palawan known for having an underground river where many tourists come to visit that spot, and that river became one of the 7 wonders of nature. Tubbataha Reefs national Park declared as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO in 1993.

courtesy of Google Images

SARANGANI BAY - If you want an experience diving in Mindanao, this place is what you are looking for. This is located in southern tip of Mindanao, Philippines, like others diving resorts it also has marine sanctuaries that you can really enjoy.

courtesy of Google Images

MALAPASCUA ISLAND - Malapascua Island is located in Cebu Philippines, a tiny island. The island became popular in early 90’s for diving destination. It is known for having a wide white sand beach, beautiful coral gardens and excellent local dive spots. Some people called it Bounty Beach.

courtesy of Google Images

Enjoy every place in the Philippines and discover the hidden paradise. Meet the whale shark in the Philippines in every diving you do and makes friend with them. See you in your next dive.

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