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Friday, January 21, 2011
Monday, November 3, 2008
If your looking for a great destination island hopping escape in Southern Philippines, Then you are looking for a world class destination getaway in Davao. The Pearl Farm Beach Resort in Samal Island Davao is one of the popular and great destination for island hopping in Southern Philippines.
Pearl Farm Beach Resort is located in the southern part of the Philippines in Samal group of Island that consists of an archipelago of nine islands that stretch out over a land area of 26,000 Hectares. The Pearl farm is situated on the hillside cliff covered on the quiet side of Samal Island off Davao City with lush vegatation, a beautiful area that is transformed into a world class resort. The Samal Island is known to be very beautiful with a tranquil and very exotic island with magnificent white sand beaches and an excellent and very abundant marine life. Samal Island in Davao has a beautiful landscape with excellent rock formations, mangroves, coconut elements, flowering plants and fruit-bearing trees. Saml Island is indeed an island paradise that is good for holiday getaway so that you can have peace of mind and can totally relax that has excellent batural attraction sceneries and flourishing flora and fauna.
This is called Pearl Farm because it was once an 11-heactare spread pearl farm with thousands of white-lipped oysters, transported from the Sulu Sea, were cultivated for their pink, white and gold pearls. Now this farm is transformed into a world class beach resort called the Pearl Farm Beach Resort that gives local visitors and tourists a perfect setting for a relaxing and escape to a busy and stressful work in the city. The Pearl Farm Island Resort is a precious gateway where guests can revel in tropical pleasures, relish life’s flavors and feast on nature’s bounties.
The Pearl Farm beach resort is also known for its air-conditioned Samal Houses that are patterned after the stit houses of seafaring Samal tribes of the Sulu archipelago. You can see schools of tiny fishes that frolics between the sturdy poles that support the houses. At night time, you can hear the relaxing sound of waves of the sea that is very soothing to your ears and can ive you peace of mind. You will get tempted to the prestine crystal clear blue waters of the Pearl Island beach resort because it is so inviting.
There are lots of things to do to enjoy yourself in Pearl Farm Beach Resort in Samal Island. There are lots of water activities can be done like Jetskiing, hobie cat sailing, scuba diving and many more for water sports enthusiasts. Beacuse Samal Island is very abundant in marine life, you can see lots of rare aquatic species underwater such as pawikan (marine turtle), the giant taklobo clams and colorful marine life species. Explore the vast of unexplored depths of Samal island and see the beauty that lies underwater. Great opporunities awaits to the enthusiastic beginner or an expert scuba diver. It is also great for underwater photography.
If you want to explore the or sail around the calm seas of Samal island, you can get a bance and do some island hopping. Explore the magnificant and dazzling coral gardens of Samal Island. See the beautiful surrounding landscape of the Resort and follow the wooden footbridges and walkways as they meander through the exotic gardens of the resort. Island structures are made of natural materials such as bamboo, wood, rope, stone and coral.
The Parl Farm Beach Resort is landscape and designed to reflect the rich culture, heritage and history of the indigenous tribes that once live here in the past. The Maranao Restaurant features delicious Filipino and International Cuisine with fresh seafood specialties. A wide assortment of exotic tropical fruits uch as bananas, durian, santol, papaya, green mandarin, mangosteen and mangoes grow abundantly in the fertile landscapes of Davao and neighboring provinces, as well as Samal Island itself, giving Pearl Farm the ease to serve them fresh at the Maranao Restaurant. The Parola Bar was once a lighthouse lookout post when this Resort was once a pearl farm. The Parola bar has an ambience with great music, drinks and conversation that is very inviting to the guest to spend the night in the resort.
How to get there to Pearl Farm Beach Resort
Pearl Farm resort is 1.5 hours from Manila and 50 minutes by car from the airport. 45 Minutes from Davao by boat.
Costa Marina, Samal Island Garden
Just off the east coast of Davao is a quaint beach resort called Costa Marina located at Caliclic, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal. For about 15 minutes of boat ride at less than Php10 per head, you’re off to the beach with a great view of the city.
The place is just one of the resorts along the strip of the Samal Island Garden but according to the locals, it is one of the two most frequented beaches by The Davaoeños. Forgot how much the entrance fee was but I think it was around Php20 only.
The expansive gray-sand beach is shaded by trees stretching from end to end. You can practically go there, take a quick dip, have lunch and go back home in less than two hours. How’s that for a noon-time office break?
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
"Eighth Wonder of the World "
From Manila:
the most convenient way is to take the 10pm bus from either Dangwa Bus or Auto Bus
(During peak seasons or holy week, you have to at least reserve ticket on week or 3 days before trip whenever possible).
Ticket will cost around PHP 290 (approx. 6 to 7 USD). Trips are usually daily. The trip will usually take you around 8 to 9 hours. The trip will pass by Neighboring Provinces of Nueva Vizcaya, Bayombong, Solano, Bambang.
You will arrive around 5 to 6 am the next day.
From Baguio:
as of this date, Auto Bus does not operate unlike in the past. I'm not sure if Dangwa is also operating, but you can take a ride almost every afternoon only near the Rizal Park (in Baguio City). There are buses and mini buses station. You just need to check out the trip schedules because almost everyday, they are changing. This trip will take you from Baguio going down to Carmen, making a let turn to the junction going to Vizcaya, heading east, then a turn from San Jose going up north making your way to Solano or Bayombong The trip will also bore you a long 9 hour haul.
On the other hand, you can settle by riding three different trips: Baguio to Sagada or go directly to Bontoc, taking the trip from either Slaughter House or at the back of Centermall, simply known as Dangwa Terminal. The trip will usually take you 5-6 hours. The trip usually starts around 6 am, taking the Halsema Highway route. If you take the Sagada trip and arriving at the area, it is impossible to leave the place without making your way around, but If you are in a hurry, you can either rent a jeepney going to Bontoc or settle for the next day. It will usually take you around 1 to 2 hours to reach Bontoc. Bontoc is a central part of the transportation link.
From Bontoc:
you can actually go directly to Baguio or Banaue or Sagada. From Bontoc, there are jeepneys that have limited schedules, so an inquiry from locals is recommended. You can take a jeepney trip between 8 am to 10 am. You can ask the locals of what time the trip is in the afternoon. The trip will usually take you 1.5 to 2 hours going to Banaue.
1. Banaue View Inn, overlooking the town square
2. The Banaue Hotel, a ten-minute walk out of the southern side of town. An average standard room will cost you around PHP 1500 or around 30 to 35 USD, will all the comforts, spacious hotel lobbies and panoramic views of the place.
3. There are several residents who would want to accept transient boarders. Near the Banaue town proper however, there are server lodging houses and all are at very reasonable prices, so accommodation is almost not a problem.
Side Trips and Places of Interest near Banaue Vicinity
1. Hapao Rice Terraces
2. Banaue Resort
3. Batad Rice Terraces
4. Tappia Falls in Batad
Siargao is a tear-drop shaped island situated 800 kilometers southeast of Manila in the province of Surigao del Norte. It has a land mass of approximately 437 kilometers. It has a land mass of approximately 437 kilometers. The east coast is relatively straight with one deep inlet-Port Pilar with a coastline marked by a succession of reefs, small points and white sandy beaches. There are similar neighboring islands and islets with similar landforms. The reefs and points are excellent for picking up any swell that comes along turning into clean, fast waves. The Island's Pacific-facing reefs are situated on the edge of the Philippine Trench, and the extremely deep offshore waters guarantee the ocean swells have undiluted power when they encounter the many coral and rock reefs, giving Siargao excellent surfing conditions, particularly during the southwest "habagat" monsoon from August to November, when the prevailing wind is offshore.
This right-breaking reef wave is the site of the annual Siargao Cup, a domestic and international surfing competition sponsored by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte. The wave was discovered by travelling surfers in the late 1980's, and named and made well-known by American photographer John S Callahan, who published the first major feature on Siargao Island in the US based SURFER Magazine in March 1993, and hundreds of photos in many other books and magazines since. Callahan has returned to the island many times since his first visit in 1992, and his efforts to photograph and publish surfing related and general location material from Siargao islandin books and magazines around the world has put the island on the international map and drawn thousands of surfers and tourists to Siargao island.
There are several other excellence waves on Siargao and nearby islands, but Cloud 9 has received more publicity than any other wave in the area, indeed in the Philippines as a whole. It is the only wave in the area easy to get to without a boat, leading to overcrowding and the nickname of "Crowd 9" among surfers worldwide as keen foreign and locally owned accommodation and tourist facilities attempt to profit from the magazine publicity and the annual arrival of visitors drawn by the Siargao Cup competition in September.
Siargao Islands contain the biggest mangrove forest reserves in Mindanao on the opposite coastline. Long stretches of wetlands equally indicate potentials for commercial seaweed propagation. Siargao Island is greatly influenced by the winds and currents coming uninterrupted from the Pacific Ocean, intensified by the Mindanao current running westward through the Siargao Strait.
Offshore, a classic tropical island lay secluded within its surrounding coral reef and the dozen coconut palms dressed in the center circle of the island crackle gently in the morning breeze. Off to the right, well within the massive coastal reef, lay a shining white sand bar some 200 meters long, maintained by a group of some forty black-headed terns that stood chattering among themselves at the waters edge. The tide of Siargao is diurnal with tidal curves typically present especially on the east coast of the island.
Siargao Map
Manila - Cebu City - Surigao City -Siargao Island
Manila - Surigao City
Air via Asian Spirit
Sea by SuperFerry, Sulpicio
Land by Philtranco Bus
Manila to Cebu
Air via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines
Sea by SuperFerry, Sulpicio
Cebu City - Siargao Island
Air via SEAIR
Cebu City - Surigao City
Air via Asian Spirit
Sea via Cokaliong ,SuperFerry, Sulpicio
Surigao City - Dapa (entry point Siargao Island)
Sea via Fastcraft Aska and Fortune Jet
Dapa - Gen. Luna (beach & surfing area)
Land by van / motorbike / jeepney
Sayak (siargao airport) - Gen. Luna (beach & surfing area)
Land by van / motorbike / jeepney
Manila - Butuan City - Surigao City - Siargao Island
Manila to Butuan
Air via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines
Manila to Cebu City
Air via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air PhilippinesSea by SuperFerry, Sulpicio
Cebu City to Butuan City
Sea by SuperFerry, Sulpicio, Cebu Ferries
Butuan City - Surigao City
Land by Private Van, Bus, Jeepney
Surigao City - Dapa (entry point Siargao Island)
Sea via Fastcraft Aska and Fortune Jet
Dapa - Gen. Luna (beach & surfing area)
Land by van / motorbike / jeepney
Sayak (siargao airport) - Gen. Luna (beach & surfing area)
Land by van / motorbike / jeepney
When you get to cool, crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, pleasant town folk and delicious sea foods ... you're in the island of Bantayan. Coming to Bantayan is like coming out of a time machine. It's like entering the time and place when life was simple and quiet.
The island, which is composed of three municipalities, specifically Bantayan, Madridejos & Santa Fe is also generally known as the “Egg Basket” in the neighboring regions because it has been generating over one and a half million eggs a day to supply the growing demand of eggs for mainland Cebu, Negros, Panay and even Leyte.
In Bantayan, there are 405-year-old church the one-and-a-half century house of Anun Escario, the Ogtong Cave and the rest of the ancient unarmed caves the old Spanish kota (fort) in Sta. Fe, the beautiful island in the district and the sunset at the pier.
The people in Bantayan island is mostly Christian, aside from the fact that it has the oldest church in the Visayas and Mindanao, it is also named as the Lenten capital of the Visayas. Many people from Cebu and as far as Manila go to Bantayan not only for a swim and relaxation but also to witness the holy week procession and to observe the most solemn practice of faith. Because of this, almost all resorts double their rates at this time of year.
During holy week, on Maunday Thursday and Good Friday, both locals and visitors get together by the thousands at the town center of Bantayan to be part of the Lenten procession of religious symbols and images symbolizing the Passion of Christ. Such religiosity only reflects the Bantayanon's unquestioned faith in Christ therefore making the island one of the safest place in the country.
But there is also the human aspect. You see kids with even tan running around the beach lines, naked, simple-hearted and friendly. Bantayan Island has a remarkable dialect, mixture of Ilonggo, Waray and Cebuano but one that is Greek to both Cebuanos and Ilonggos. And its tone changes from town to town. The people in every town just have their own of expressing it.
Like its dialect, each of the three towns has its own character. Bantayan considered as the town proper of the island has 25 barangays and the basic infrastructure. The town is known for its mouth-watering dried fish and squid. Aside from fishing, the people are also into rock phosphate and limestone mining.
If the other two towns are busy with their income projects, Sta. Fe is busier during the Lenten Season with hundreds of people who gather to its white sandy beaches. Reservations to Bantayan's beach resorts for the Lenten Season should be done six months to one year earlier. As early as February this year, the resorts have already been fully booked.
With regards to the food in Bantayan, a combination of cuisine is served on the island with a taste of restaurants serving Filipino, Thai, and Japanese to European menus. A massive selection of sea foods fresh from the day's catch is very well dished up since most of the people of the island are fishermen that cast their nets on the abundant Visayan seas. One can even visit the wet market to see fishermen unpack their precious catch from the sea. Fresh live fish from groupers to blue marlin's are just two of the many surprises. Shrimps, crabs and lobsters are displayed in large quantity in the market. After a full meal one can choose a selection of fresh fruit shakes with choices from mango to choco banana.
Bantayan Island Map
You can go to Bantayan island by plane from Cebu or by Bus and Vans for Hire from the North Cebu Bus Terminal.
From Cebu City
One may take the plane via SEAIR (Flight suspended) flight departing from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport or take a bus ride at the North Cebu Bus Terminal which will take you about 3 hours to Hagnaya from which one desires to take the Island Express Ferry Boat for the 1 hour ride to Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island. Flying time to Bantayan Island is about 25 minutes or less. Recently, there is already a Ro-Ro boat going from Hagnaya to Santa Fe, you can take your car or SUV from Cebu all the way to Santa Fe for a fantastic island getaway!
Vans, Buses, Ferries and Planes
(subject to change without notice)
Vans
From the airport or seaport to Hagnaya.
Good for 6-7 persons.
Non-stop trip
CHARGE: 3,500 pesos to 4,000.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 2 hours to 2 and half hours
V-Hire
From White Gold Terminal to Hagnaya.
Very crampy ride.
Must be there earlier so you can have the best seat on the van.
Van leaves every hour or when the van is full.
CHARGE: 100.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 2 and a half hours
Buses (Phil-Cebu Bus Liners, Rough Riders)
From the City North Bus Terminal to Hagnaya,
4:30 AM and every 30 minutes thereafter until 3:00 PM daily
CHARGE: 60.00 pesos to 70.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 3 - 4 hours
Ferries (Island Express Shipping)
From Hagnaya to the port of Santa Fe and vice versa daily.
CHARGE: 60.00 pesos to 70.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 1 and a half hour (maximum)
Fastcraft(Aznar Fastcraft)
From Hagnaya to the port of Santa Fe and vice versa daily.
CHARGE: 100.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 30 minutes (maximum)
Ro-Ro Boats (Shuttle Ferry Service)
From Hagnaya to the port of Santa Fe
Boats (Don Martin, Palacio Shipping Lines)
From the city to the port of Santa Fe
CHARGE: 150.00 pesos - 200.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 6 to 7 hours
Boats (Lapu-lapu Shipping Lines)
From the city to the port of Santa Fe
CHARGE: 150.00 pesos - 200.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 6 to 7 hours
Airplane (via SEAIR) Temporarily suspended
From the Mactan-Cebu International Airport
CHARGE: 990.00 pesos (promotional price) / 1,350.00 pesos(standard price)
Baguio City is home to many tourist spots and is a weekend getaway of those living in Metro Manila. Baguio City remains a prime tourist destination area in North Luzon because of its cool climate, fresh, green and peaceful environment unlike other tourist destinations in the Philippines. This makes it a favorite destination especially for those who would like to relax and stay away from the excessive heat of the lowlands and also a favorite venue of seminars and conferences. Baguio is the midway to the wonders of Northern Luzon. The calm beaches of La Union; the fabled Hundred Islands of Pangasinan; the ancient churches, Spanish influenced houses, historical and cultural relics of Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte and is also the gateway to the Cordilleras where you could find the world famous Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao; the Kabayan mummy caves of Benguet; and the distinct culture and colorful traditions of the tribes of Benguet, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Kalinga, Apayao and Abra.
The name Baguio conjures, for both the international and domestic traveler, a highland retreat in the Grand Cordillera in Northern Luzon, with pine trees, crisp cold breezes and low luxuriant knolls and hillocks. Through the numerous decades Baguio has morphed from what was once a grassy marshland into one of the cleanest and greenest, most highly developed cities in the country. It has made its mark as an opening tourist destination in the Northern part of the Philippines with its cool climate, foggy hills, panoramic views and lovely flowers. Being the ideal union zone of neighboring highland places, Baguio is the melting pot of different peoples and cultures and has enhanced its ability to provide a center for education for its neighbors. Its rich culture and countless resources have attracted numerous investments and business opportunities to the city.
Baguio City, the Summer Capital of the Philippines promises a harbor to anyone who seeks its comfort where you could leave all your cares behind. With its numerous tourist attractions and panoramic scenes and refreshing pine scented fresh air it seeks to provide a relief to any traveler, a hideaway to the romantics and breather to the weariest soul. Encapsulate this one of a kind feeling as you look around through the stunning and exciting scenes of the Summer Capital of the Philippines.
Man Made Attractions
1. Botanical Gardens
It is also called the Igorot village, which used to feature native huts typical of Cordillera architecture. This village captures the ethnic spirit and cultural legacy of the Igorot dweller. The garden is also a site of cultural presentations and other tribal meetings.
2. Burnham Park
It is the oldest of all Baguio parks. One can unwind from the tension of the day-to-day bustle by biking, skating or simply reflecting on the day's experiences amid a soothing backdrop of colorful flowers. It is wooded and is great place to have picnics and concerts. There are tennis and basketball courts, a football field, athletic oval and an orchidarium.
It is also called the Igorot village, which used to feature native huts typical of Cordillera architecture. This village captures the ethnic spirit and cultural legacy of the Igorot dweller. The garden is also a site of cultural presentations and other tribal meetings.
3. Camp Johnhay
It is still the extraordinary beautiful base, which the American forces turned over last July 1, 1991 to the Philippine government. It is now open to the public. Its excellent cottages, golf courses, bowling lanes, dining places and natural ambience are all preserved and maintained.
4. Mines View
Appropriately named for its breathtaking views of mountain ranges and Baguio's "mineral bowl" where gold, silver and other ores were once quarried. There are now numerous souvenir shops around the park offering such items as woodcarvings, woven cloth, ashtrays, shell products and other curio items.
5. Wright Park
It is sometimes mistakenly called "Ride Park" by some who identify this pine tree park reserve for its kiddy horse rides. A long stairway leads to the "Pool of the Pines", a 100 meter long pool of water lined on both sides by the famous Baguio towering pine.
Religious Attractions
1. Baguio Cathedral
One of the familiar landmarks in Baguio. The structure with its twin spires and one hundred steps sits on top of a small hill in the heart of the city, offering churchgoers and visitors a chance to get a bird's eye view of the entire commercial hub. It was opened to the public last November 25, 1990 during the Christ the King celebration.
2. Bell Church
This cluster of temples is located on the border of Baguio City and Trinidad Valley. Its exotic oriental architecture features pagoda roofs, an ornate gateway, dragon ornaments and Buddha guarded windows that gaze from atop a hill. The Bell Temple priest practices a mixture of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and Christianity. One may even try having his fortune told.
3. Lourdes Grotto
This is a religious shrine housing the image of the Lady of Lourdes. About 252 steps lead to this shrine where pilgrims brave the steep climb to offer sacrifices, devotion and prayers. One is also regarded with a beautiful panoramic view of the city.
Natural Attractions
1. Asin Hot Springs
Located 16 kilometers northwest of Baguio. The resort's main feature is a swimming pool surrounded by thermal springs, has vegetation and several hanging bridges. It is an ideal respite for travelers.
2. Mount Santo Tomas
A trek up to the Mount Sto. Tomas is a hikers' delight. The peak is 7,5000 feet high and commands a majestic view of mountain, sea and valley. The mountain can be reached by foot or by vehicle.
Historical Attractions
1. Kennon Road
Kennon Road is the shortest and the most scenic highway linking Baguio and the lowlands. This was named after Col. Lyman W. Kennon who was its final builder. The industrious Cordilleras and foreign workers assisted him. The road was substantially finished in 1903.
2. Teachers Camp
It was through the vacation normal school that teachers from all over the islands were able to have a respite and have some time for studies. In a letter to the Secretary of Public Instruction, Governor William Pack outlined his plan to set up a camp in Baguio where teachers can be accommodated. The plan was approved on January 8, 1908 and was opened on April 6, 1908
3. Mansion House
The imposing and majestic Baguio Mansion House has housed a long list of Filipino presidents and American governor-generals. It has an elegantly structured building and guesthouse. Its gate is patterned after that of London's Buckingham Palace.
4. Philippine Military Academy
The Philippine Military Academy is the Philippine's premier military institution. True to its mission to "instruct, train, and develop the cadets so that they shall possess the character, the broad and basic military skills, and the education essential to the pursuit of a progressive military career", the PMA, as it is more popularly known, has honed the best military officers in our country today. It has complete training and educational facilities to mold the future officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Cultural Attractions
1. Woodcarvers Village
Along the way to Asin, about 5 kms from the city, is an Ifugao wood carving village, which sells beautiful carved curio items at very low prices.
2. Saint Louis Filigree Shop
A handicraft shop specializing in silver jewelry and other filigree products. Some of the craftsmen are only high school students. This shop is in the center of the city and was established in 1916.
Transportation
Land transport
It takes an average of six hours to travel the 250-km distance between Manila and Baguio by way of Kennon Road. It is about fifteen minutes longer through the Marcos Highway and could take three more hours when going through Naguilian Road. Kennon Road is occasionally blocked by landslides during the rainy season and the same problem occurs on the other two access roads. The route to Baguio through Kennon Road is as attractive as it is dangerous. There is another access to Baguio from Aritao in the province of Nueva Vizcaya but this is less traveled, the road is not well maintained, and public transportation through this route is not as regular. Another road, Halsema Road which is also known as "Mountain Trail", leads north through the mountainous portion of the Cordillera Autonomous Region. It starts at the northern border of Baguio, in the Municipality of Trinidad (Trinidad Valley).
There are several bus lines linking Baguio with Manila and Central Luzon, and provinces such as Pangasinan, La Union, and those in the Ilocos region. Most transportation companies also offer express and air-conditioned buses at a much higher fare.
Bus services that works for Baguio includes Philippine Rabbit, Dangwa Tranco, Dagupan Bus, Victory Liner, Partas, Genesis, Saulog Transit, and Greenland.
Air transport
Loakan Airport in Baguio is about 20 minutes by car south of the city. Because of the length of the runway, commercial jet aircraft are not able to use the airport. The airport is only used by propeller-driven aircraft. Currently, Asian Spirit flies daily to and from Manila, a 50 minute flight. Flights to Baguio are scheduled only in the morning, as visibility approaches zero in afternoons when fog starts to form.
CAMIGUIN is a small pear-shaped volcanic island with a total land area of 238 sq. kilometers in the north west coast of Mindanao. It lies 10 kilometers off the coast of the Province of Misamis Oriental. Along with the Provinces of Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental, CAMIGUIN forms part of a geopolitical grouping of provinces comprising Region X or Northern Mindanao. In terms of land area, CAMIGUIN is only around 2 percent of Region X.CAMIGUIN ISLAND is said to be "Born of Fire". It has been known as a volcanic island since it has seven volcanoes unmatched anywhere else in Southeast Asia and one of the volcanoes there has been unpredictably active which is the Mt. Hibok-hibok. Volcanic eruptions and land movements have created this spectacular island full of natural wonders and historical riches.
Mt Hibok-hibok plunged Camiguin’s old capital, Bombon, in 1871 and throttled almost 2000 inhabitants from its raging eruption in 1951. Since then, the volcano rested quietly giving its residents an assurance of normal living. And due to its volcanic wreckage from previous eruptions, most of Camiguin’s beaches are covered with pebbles and dark sand.
As an island of varied ecosystem, CAMIGUIN'S uniqueness lies in its various landscape, pristine natural environment and rural setting. As a matter of fact, the Province has been identified by the Department of Tourism as one of the top 25 tourist destinations in the Philippines, and No. 7 diving spot in the world.
It is a tiny island of luxuriant forests, volcanic grandeur, eternal hot and cold natural springs, pristine patches of black and white beaches, majestic waterfalls, exotic marine life, blue-ridge mountains, tranquil surroundings, idyllic lifestyle; it has a glorious past, and is inhabited with jovial people. The truth is, CAMIGUIN is best experienced than described as one gets enchanted by her mystical charm. It really has amazing natural resources and peaceful atmosphere that stir and baffle the minds of everyone.
CAMIGUIN is believed to be one of the Philippines's most beautiful island - a virtual paradise - as the island allows visitors to experience a sample of untouched beauty in its entirety. CAMIGUIN generally has good weather with seasonal rain showers enhancing its fresh green environment. Fine weather is guaranteed from April to June, while the coolest is from November to January. Locked in the eternal embrace of the sea, CAMIGUIN continues its simple existence sheltered from and unfazed by the virulent pressures of today's accelerated lifestyles.
1. Old Ruins of San Roque Church, Convent and Belfry in Gui-ob, Bonbon, Catarman
These are the testimonials and bits and pieces of the eruption of Old Vulcan Daan in 1871 that wiped out the illustrious town of Catarman. It is a monument with thick century-old walls, belfry and convent which stand reminiscent of the second Spanish settlement established in 1697.
2. Sunken Cemetery
A large white cross marks a cemetery swept into the sea by Old Vulcan Daan's eruption in 1871. From here it is a perfect place to watch the wonderful sunset over the ocean. It is also an ideal place for snorkeling and diving. An annual fluvial procession is held by townsfolk in honor of the sunken graves of their forefathers and as a thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.
3. Old Sto. Rosario Church of 1882 now restored to its former glory in Sagay, Camiguin
4. Via Cruzes - Old Volcano Slope
It is where life-size statues representing the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ - the 14 Stations of the Cross that dot a trail to Old Volcano's peak are found. At the last station is a tomb carefully carved and chiseled out of volcanic rocks. The pilgrims gather together here to pray during Lenten Season.
5. Ancestral House in Los Libertadores St., Mambajao now dwelled by the Francisco Family and built in 1800's
6. Centennial House in Lakas, Mambajao owned by Corrales Family and built in 1800's
7. Katibawasan Falls
A beautiful, clear stream of water cascading 70 meters into a rock pool surrounded by ground orchids, wild ferns, trees and boulders. Its cold water provides a refreshing summer splash to all vacationers.
8. Tuasan Falls
The approach to the wild and mighty falls entails a very scenic hike passing through the quaint Barrio of Mainit, Catarman and along the Rocky River bed. The pool below the deafening waterfalls is deep and clear. The surrounding scenery is virgin and perfect for a peaceful picnic. The only sound you hear is that of the tumbling falls and running water. It is 6 kilometers northwest of Catarman proper.
9. Binangawan Falls
In Sagay is Binangawan Falls wherefrom several miniature and gigantic waterfalls gushing through majestic granite stones that converge in one main pool, covered with luscious unspoiled vegetation, and a mystical rainbow are arched by the fall's mist as the sunlight break in through it.
10. Ardent Hot Spring
In the heart of the island bubbles this mineral pool with water around 400C. Vapor rises from the heated waters that run down the vents of the dormant Hibok-Hibok volcano. The springs are ideal to bathe in at night surrounded by cool mountain air. It has therapeutic effects. Picnic huts and tables are available in the beautifully landscaped gardens and there is a restaurant on site. It is 6 kilometers southwest of Mambajao.
11. Macao Cold Spring
It is a spring of natural cold and blue-green waters that overflow with grandeur, perfect to appease and quench one's humid feeling. It is situated at Tupsan Pequiño, Mahinog.
12. Sto. Niño Cold Spring
A spring located 4 kilometers north uphill of Catarman proper. It has a terrific huge pool of cold spring water measuring 25m x 40m sprouting from sandy bottom. The area has native stores, picnic huts and toilets for visitors and guests. It is located 4 kilometers north of central Catarman.
13. Tangub Hot Spring
It is a volcanic hot spring not fully developed a little beneath sea level where a pool is formed by sea stones and corals. Water temperature shifts from cold to lukewarm to warm then to hot as tide changes. Submerge in the warm water inside the pool at low tide and enjoy the cold sea water merging with the hot spring. This rare spring is situated at Naasag, Mambajao - about 12 kilometers west of the capital town; 10-20 meters offshore is ideal for scuba diving.
14. Mt. Hibok-Hibok
Its approach is via the base of Barangay Tagdo in Mambajao. It is a volcano 1250 meters high above sea level. Its slopes are challenges/barriers for professional climbers as they trek skillfully and maneuvers on loose rocks and boulders towards the peak. At the zenith, there is a crater like lake and steam outlets where one can have a clear panoramic view of the entire island and the Bohol Province during sunny clear days.
15. Old Volcano
A volcano located 13 kilometers away from Mambajao with stiff drop off measuring 7,080 meters high above sea level. It is the landmark for PANAAD.
16. Mt. Ilihan
It is located at Butay, Guinsiliban and a 3-hour climb uphill. There, one can see bluish green ridge of mountains and majestic slopes as he recites his Stations of the Cross, especially on Lenten Season. One can experience a sense of relief when reaching the top with its cool mountain breeze. Its splendid beauty is very touching. At the pinnacle, climbers can peacefully camp and take pleasure in unbothered world.
17. White Island
An isolated white sandbar where the view of towering Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Old Volcan reflects the sumptuousness the Province of Camiguin has ever achieved. It is reached within 10 minutes through light water transport from anywhere in Yumbing, Mambajao area.
18. Mantigue Island
The island is 4 hectares of evergreen forest, fringed with white granule sand beaches. A fishing village is found in the north of the island. One side of the island is a white sand beach with coral offshore, and the other opposite side provides a deep drop-off for snorkeling and diving. One gets there by light water craft in 25-30 minutes from San Roque, Mahinog.
19. Jicdup Shoal (Dive Spot)
It lies approximately 2 nautical miles from the shore of Balbagon, Mambajao. The seabed rises forming a shoal about 10 hectares in size hosting a variety of aquatic life. It is one of the best dive spots in Camiguin Island teeming with fishes of different species and shapes/sizes. It has excellent visibility and is best for underwater photographs, and novice divers.
20. Burias Shoal (Dive Spot)
Slightly smaller than Jicdup, Burias is among the favorite spot for high adventure seeking divers. It hauls the thrill seeking divers to the shoal to see schools of jacks, tuna, mackerels and barracudas. A verdant black coral covered bottom is also one of its treasures. Diving here can be strong, however, the little effort spent fining against the current is worth the excitement.
21. Taguines Lagoon
It is a lagoon mantled by limpid water, located at Benoni, Mahinog, with large cliff and gently rolling hills. The brackish water is engulfed in there by a century old crater, ideal for boat and fishing.
22. Centennial Tree
A Pili Nut tree which is more than century old situated at Lakas, Mambajao owned by the Corrales Family. One can marvel how the tree survived the tests of the times as he sees and touches its huge trunk.
CAMIGUIN celebrates year-round festivals like Lanzones Festival held every third week of October when sweet Camiguin lazones is proudly displayed. Highlights of the festival include agri-trade fair and street dancing contest that feature traditional dance, drum circles and colorful ethnic costumes; San Juan sa Hibok-Hibok Festival held every 24th of June in honor of St. John the Baptist with fluvial processions, parades and water sports; Panaad - Holy Week observance when tens of thousands of Christians come to the island to walk around the 64 kilometer circumferential highway as a form of sacrifice, either to fulfill a vow or to do penance for the remission of sins. The pilgrims congregate either at the Old Vulcan or Mt. Ilihan to pray; Camiguin Christmas Festival when choral competition, pastorales contest, parol sa barangay and belen sa barangay are conducted during Yuletide Season; and May Festival when notable fiesta celebrations of almost all barangays in Camiguin re-celebrated.
The people of CAMIGUIN are friendly, fun-loving, and very hospitable. It’s capital, Mambajao, has a friendly small community of mostly Visayan and Chinese origin. Camiguingnons are also hardworking. The main occupation of the people is fishing and farming. Coconut is the major production as far as sources of income is concerned. Other plantations are abaca, rice, mangoes, lanzones and other fruit trees. Small cottage industries are increasing in number to accommodate the influx of visitors. Cebuano is the main language while a few speak Kinamiguin, an ancient dialect. Nearly everyone speaks English fairly.
Their source of livelihood comes from the produce of their land and the surrounding ocean. Every October, Lanzones Festival transform the island into an explicit sight of townsfolk dressed up in their traditional costumes to celebrate the harvest of this small, sweet tasting, light-yellow fruit that grows in bunches at the foot of Mt. Hibok-hibok. The festival is remarkably good-natured, filled with colors and properly organized. Camiguin Lanzones Fruit Aside from these natural landforms huddling in the island, Camiguin is an area of forested mountains mixed with coconut trees along its coasts.
CAMIGUIN beckons you to come, savor and discover the many ways anyone can unwind and joyfully dwell on the island's offerings.
"finest beach in the world"
It is seven km long and one km width at its narrowest point, is situated off the northwest corner of the island of Panay, and lies in the Western Visayas island-group, or Region 6, of the Philippines. In Boracay, there are three villages or barangays, Yapak, Balabag and Manoc-Manoc.Yapak is generally hilly but there are roughly beautiful beaches such as Ilig-Iligan, Pukashell and Balinhai beach.Balabag is the central part of the island and the virtually popular place is White Beach. Half of the residents live in a quiet place Manoc-Manoc.Boracay is a beautiful small island surrounded by coral reefs and located one km north-west of Panay island in Visayas of the Philippines. It is the most popular beach in the country as the most visited tourist spot in the Philippines. Before the middle of 1980s, it was a famous hidden resort but known to limited numbers of sea lovers. Now many tourists visit there from all over the world, America, Europe, korea, Taiwan and so on. The climate from March to June are the summer months in Boracay, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 38 degrees Celsius. November to February bring enjoyable winds, cooler temperatures, and occasional rain showers. July to October are the rainy months.
High season is from November to the end of May and low season from June to October. Acommodation fee depends on the seasons and facilities of hotels. Boracay is windy in whole seasons and especially in the low season. There is no coral off White Beach, though plenty of dive boats will take you to good dive sites. Windsurfing months are Nov-April, best Dec-Feb. The best months are Jan-May, OK June- Sept [with some rain], but April and May are Philippine school holidays and the place gets noisy and crowded then. Don't consider Oct-Nov because it is windy, possibly grey and wet.
Languages used other than Tagalog/Filipino and other local dialects, English is generally spoken in Boracay. Aklanon is mostly spoken in Aklan Province (island of Panay), wherein Boracay is part.
They report 160,000 tourists visited or stayed in Boracay in 1997 and Koreans are major in numbers. In Visayas there are many marine sport spots with coral reefs and white beach. Among them four km long white beach of Boracay is beyond contrast. There are a lot of restaurants and hotels along the white beach though they are hidden behind coconut trees planted.
A peaceful atmosphere - though' fairly busy - and friendly locals. The sand is remarkably white, soft, in no way gets hot and extends for 3 miles. There is a massive diversity of small hotels, restaurants and bars offering international cuisine just off the beach, comparatively cheap and relaxed. Although rated as one of the top ten beaches in the world, current tourism expansion has lead to some environmental concerns.
The code in Boracay is precisely casual. Walking barefoot than shoes is the law rather than the exclusion. Wavering discos have the beach for a floor, giving dance a new twist. From sundown to sunrise, the island turns into one big party place where everyone is welcome to join in.
Boracay is the ideal site for golf, tennis, bowling, even beach volleyball. Top-of-class facilities for these activities are available in the island. For golf bugs, Fairways and Bluewater Resort Golf and Countryclub has an 18-hole championship course.
Itching now to go to Boracay White Beach? Pack your bags and take off to the Philippines’ greatest tourist destination. The country’s major airlines like the Philippine Airlines fly regularly to Kalibo where the world’s well-known Ati-atihan fiesta is in custody yearly, Aklan. From there, you can take an air-conditioned bus to Caticlan, the jump-off point from where you will get a boat to Boracay. Asian Spirit and SeaAir, however, have direct flights from Manila to Caticlan airport three times a week. If you’re coming from Cebu, you can also take a direct flight to Caticlan. For those traveling by sea, there are shipping lines that ply the Manila-Caticlan route or Manila-Dumaguete which is only half hour east of Kalibo.
If you want to go to Boracay by plane, from Manila’s domestic airport, get flights to Boracay either via Kalibo (1 hour and 45 minutes away) or via Caticlan (10-20 minutes by boat). From Kalibo airport, air-conditioned vans and buses for hire will take you to the Caticlan Jetty Port, where boats are stationed to carry you to the island. Motorized tricyles bring will take you from Caticlan airport to the jetty port, 3 minutes away.
Carriers from Manila to Caticlan:
• Asian Spirit
• Corporate Air
• Interisland Airlines
• South East Asian Airlines (SEAir)
Carriers from Manila to Kalibo:
• Cebu Pacific
• Philippine Airlines
• Air Philippines
• Asian Spirit
Boracay Map
From Iloilo, there are air-conditioned vans and buses going to Kalibo or directly to Caticlan, where boats going to Boracay are stationed.
From Cebu, Asian Spirit and Sea Air fly to Kalibo two times weekly.
If you want a stress-free transfer from the airports to landing stage port to Boracay, book your accommodations prior to coming to Boracay. You may be approached by some people at the Kalibo and Caticlan airports trying to sell rooms to travelers without bookings. The best recommendation is to look elsewhere. If you have a prior booking, do not be influenced by people offering "cheaper" or "better" housing.
If you want to take a boat going to Boracay, Several ferries sail between Manila and Caticlan. The journey takes between 12 and 16 hours.
Ferries from Manila to Caticlan:
• Negros Navigation
• Super Ferry
• MBRS Lines
By Road
Buses and cars run from Manila to the Southern provinces by means of the Strong Republic Nautical Highway. A nautical system conceptualized under the term of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Buses leave from the Philtranco terminal in Cubao and Pasay city throughout the day. The journey by bus takes approx. 12 hours. Caticlan is the 4th port that the highway runs through.
So what are you waiting for? No matter what your heart’s craving is, Boracay Island can satisfy it beyond your wildest imaginations. Upon arriving there, all you have to do is prepare yourself for the next greatest days of your life.
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