We’re pretty sure travelling is in every one’s bucket list. May it be in another continent or to a nearby island, seeking life adventure in an unfamiliar place excites the wanderer in us.
Of course, travelling costs money and many eager tourists forego their plans to tour because of it. Time constraint is another factor that hinders people from taking a journey.
Fortunately, you don’t need to cash out a lot or take weeks off from work just to see wonderland. We live in a country blessed with pristine beaches, historic sites, and natural wonders. With more than 7,100 islands, friendly locals, and rich culture a, the Philippines is a destination to explore this 2015. In fact, it is one of the top 10 destinations recommended by Lonely Planet.
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.”
1. Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Known as the greenest and cleanest city in the country, Puerto Princesa, Palawan is a destination that you must definitely visit before you die. Although it is a popular tourist spot, Puerto Princesa’s beaches are considered less commercial and more secluded. Its most famous landmark, the Puerto Princesa Subterrenean River, is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
Underground River in Puerto Princesa, Palawan By Jimaggro (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons
2. Batanes
Majestic, breathtaking, and beautiful- these are three words that best describe the wonder of Batanes islands. There are a couple of things you can actually do to fully enjoy the Batanes experience like walking into a traditional Ivatan house, visiting World War II relics, touring old churches, running through its rolling hills, and checking out the unique boulders in the shore of Valugan Beach. Don’t forget to try authentic Batanes cuisine such as Bukayo (dessert dish made of young coconut meat) and Vunes ( dish made of gabi).
3. Sagada
The already famous Sagada became a household name after being featured in ABS-CBN’s teleserye Forevermore. The hanging coffins on cliffs and high stones of Sagada, which is a popular site to see, shows a unique culture of how Sagadians bury dead people. Another famous attraction in Sagada is the Sumaguing cave where you can check out gigantic stalagmite and stalactite formations. If you want to enjoy the view of Kapay-aw Rice Terraces in a unique way, you can try zip-lining over it.
4. Vigan
If you want to travel back in time, then Vigan is the place you should certainly go to. Another UNESCO World Heritage, the town features well-preserved architecture from the 16th century including Calle Crisologo, “Earthquake Baroke homes” and several centuries-old churches. We can assure you that you will enjoy local food like empanada, bagnet, Vigan longganisa, and chichacorn while walking on the town’s cobblestone walkways.
5. Bohol
There’s so much more to Bohol than Chocolate Hills. Other than enjoying the world-famous view of the popular hills, you get the opportunity to have a hearty meal while cruising in Loboc river, do a whale or dolphin-watching activity in Pamilican island, check out Baclayon for some historical churches and ancestral homes, and get friendly with the adorable Philippine Tarsier in Corella.
