Happy Holidays!!

And the holidays are back. Ironic that I'm saying it on a holiday, but it's true. November has rolled right on in, and people--well, my friends and family at least, I don't know about yours--are gearing up for a whole another season of joy and having fun.

If you were trying to lose weight in time for all the food and drink of this time of year, then your deadline is coming up and it's time to double the effort. More importantly, if you've allowed yourself to grow weak in the drinking game and find yourself ready to give up after a couple of shots (like me! I've become an old lady in the past few months), it's time to get back on that horse and train that tummy of yours to take it--how else do you intend to survive the high (and strong) spirits of the season?

It's time to focus, people! Whether it's because you wanna celebrate the crap out of life or because you just want this damn year to end, I'm getting the feeling we're all gonna be blowing 2011 right out of the water when it comes to ending 2012 with a bang. I mean Jay Sean's been singing about it for a month or a year now: We're gonna party like it's the end of the world. Do we prove him right or what? :))

Welcome To The Wonderful Of Inside My Head

PHOTOGRAPHS

We live life in moments. I think that's why photographs mean so much to us, they have the power to silently capture single moments that would otherwise be impossible to set apart. Because while we live life in moments, each moment move into another, the way each word I write connects immediately to the next. Individually, there is some meaning; it all comes alive only when you read in full. A missing word, like a missing moment, will represent the whole incomplete. At the same time, it is impossible for us, the value or worth of these moments is to know what each has in store for us, and to what other event it will connect.

Fate is what finds these moments and brings them together. As the writer, I am Fate to the words on this page--only I know where they tend, and what each word's role is in the final story. Without me they mean nothing, just a series of scratches and unclear group together in paragraph form.

Fate, or God, or Karma, or the Force, or whatever it is one might believe it to be: it pulls us together, makes us whole. It may take a day or a year or ten or twenty before we realize what is really going on, but I think every action we do translates into something greater further down the line. And that's why it's important for every moment to stand out for us. We ought to treat every instant, every event in which we find ourselves complicated, the way we would do a photograph--we should put our best foot forward in it, because it will be recorded, and it will come back to haunt us.

Welcome to the wonderful world of Inside My Head--where nothing is as it seems and all the words are pretty.

We Have It Right

Everyone's a hypocrite--true or false?

I've had the opportunity to think about this statement the past few days. The more I think about it, the more I believe that everyone does things they say they hate in other people. Sometimes it's a harmless trait, but other times it can truly hurt.

Think about it: what is it that you hate about a person? Rudeness, maybe? Messy? Do you hate it when someone is critical of them because they talk about other people's private lives a great deal, perhaps, or noisy or secretive or snobbish? Now take a look at yourself--and make it a good, long look. Can you honestly say you've never fallen into the same category to yourself?

If your answer is yes, then I don't believe you're being honest. I've known myself to raise arms against people who cut in front of me on the road, and yet I've also caught myself doing the exact same thing when I'm running late. I say I don't like a chatty talk, but I listen with a my ear when the chismis comes my way. If you're calling me a hypocrite right now, ask yourself if you've ever thought you don't like judgmental people.

So if we're all hypocrites, what can we do to stop ourselves from hurting others? Because we can all be harmless hypocrites. It's when we go out of our way to call someone out on something we don't like about them that things start to get hurt. Especially if we don't know that person; especially if them knowing what we think does nothing for them; and most especially if our unpleasant opinion applies to ourselves.

I've learned that the best thing to do when I have an opinion is to keep it to myself. I can speak and act against anyone I want--that's my right. But saying it out loud and causing damage--and worse, needless harm--to that person when she/he is doing nothing to hurt me is overstepping my limit. And in the end, no one's happy. Not me, because I'd be a negative bitch. And not that person, because they'd have received hurtful judgment from someone who has zero right to give it. So, Let people do what they do and be who they are. As the song goes, "Shut up and let me go."

And personally (and as an end note), I hope I don't ever become that kind of hypocrite.

That's Family, Family Matters

We love 'em, we hate 'em, we can't live with them or without them. No, I'm not talking about men. I'm talking about family.


I think if I ask anyone above 12 years of age about how many times they've lose self-control because of their mom/dad/brother/sister/other relative. It's as if families were built to drive each other insane, to be one another 's cause of ultimate frustration/disappointment. There are times that we feel we can never understand how Mom can be this way, how Dad can expect that of us, how sister and brothers can care so little or be so selfish.


We wish they would understand us, listen to us, make us feel worthwhile more often. We want them to be proud of us, to love us, to care about what we care about. And how it frustrates us that they just always seem to see things a different way, that we actually have to live with them and try to get along with them. We ask ourselves if we were adopted or switched at birth; could this possibly be my family?


And yet.


For some reason, we cannot seem to let them go. We can't ever turn our backs on them completely. There is always something, whether it's the thinnest of threads, forever connecting us to them.


I don't know why it is. All I know is, no matter how much I hate how they are sometimes, I love my family. I will fight with them, argue with them, yell right back at them when I can't take it anymore, but I would drop what I'm doing--even if I was in the middle of making a million dollars--to be there for them when they need me most. Because that's what family does. Family tells each other the truth, even when it hurts; family listens to the truth, even when it hurts. Family holds each other up, especially when it hurts.


That's family, and family matters. My mom always told me that even the closest of friends come and go, but family is there for life. We can't choose family the way we choose friends; we are stuck with them forever. And so we need to treat each other well, more so than we would other people. It is through family that we learn how to forgive and why to forgive, through them that we learn when to hang on and when to let go.


We love 'em, we hate 'em, we can't live with them or without them. And that's just the way love goes, I guess.

Things Which Are Equally Bad Are Also Equally Good, Try To Look At The Bright Side Of Things!

I’ve very recently learned how easy it is to move into negativity. The world is filled with things to be angry about: our jobs or our schools; our work and our lack of sleep, and our inconsistent friends, the traffic, the weather, the crowds, famine, disease, poverty, war… the list goes on.

Luckily, I have in my life people whose wisdom and experience happen to help guide me back to the right course whenever I begin to go into wrong ways. I was reminded—in a rather entering, almost rough way—that feeling the need to bitch and regret our unhappy fates is a sign that we’re looking at the wrong side of the situation.

“Things might not be going the way you want them to be,” said my personal mentor, “and you may not be getting what you feel you deserve. But that’s life. It’s not fair. Instead of complaining, learn from what you’re given.”

And he added: “Remember to keep your opinions to yourself. Watch and learn, watch and learn.”

I’ve since come to realize (after much thought to the sound of sad, rainy day music) that success comes to those who don’t give up or give in to the temptation of violent manners. It’s so much easier to complain than it is to do something about it, so much easier to give good advice than to follow it.

And yet life is as generous with its blessings. How quickly we forget that having a job to angry about means we have a job at all, that parents who always involve are parents who care, and that hard work tends to reward the worker.

“Things which are equally bad are also equally good. Try to look at the bright side of things.”

Hundred Islands National Park

The Hundred Islands National Park (Pangasinan: Kapulo-puloan or Taytay-Bakes) is in the province of  Pangasinan in northern Philippines. It is located in Alaminos City, Pangasinan. The islands (124 at low tide and 123 at high tide) are scattered along Lingayen Gulf and cover an area of 18.44 square kilometres (4,557 acres). They are believed to be about two million years old. Only three of them have been developed for tourists: Governor Island, Quezon Island, and Children's Island. The islands are actually ancient corals that extend well inland, in an area previously comprising the seabed of an ancient sea. Lowering sea levels have exposed them to the surface and the peculiar "mushroom"-like shapes of some of the islands have been caused by the eroding action of the ocean waves.


Why not visit one of the best places in the Philippines which has its own legend? They say that each of the hundred islands has come from the noble soldiers who fought for the country. Although there are several different islands, only three of them have been developed and are enjoyable from a tourist’s perspective: Governor Island, Quezon Island, and Children’s Island. It’s easy to get around, though – just take a bus ride to Anda Alaminos and rent a ferry bound to the island you want to stay. Children’s Island is named such because it is really perfect for youngsters – it is surrounded by shallow water, which is suitable and safe for children to play.

A trip to Hundred Islands National Park and its home, Alaminos City, is a great diversion from the hustle and bustle of the busy, urban life. Breathe in the refreshing views - rice paddies, azure sea - and the rustic and peaceful lifestyle as you make your way to Alaminos City. And upon arrival, savor the city's unique and dynamic spirit, friendly atmosphere and especially, the beauty and adventure that lies in the hundred wonders that is Hundred Islands.

Public bus lines, namely Victory Liner, Five Star, and Philippine Rabbit have scheduled rides from Manila, Baguio, Dagupan, Subic, Tarlac, and Zambales bound straight to Alaminos City and vice versa. From the terminal, either by private vehicle or tricycle, the Lucap Wharf is only a 10 to 15-minute ride away. You can find boats bound for the islands docked near the Wharf, with the Hundred Islands National Park Center staff eager to assist you with information and other things you'll need for your island adventure. The nearest islands from the Lucap Wharf are Sulpot Island, Monkey Island, Abad Santos Island and Hernandez Island, which are all 15 to 20 minutes away. The major islands, Children's, Governor's and Quezon can be reached after a 25 to 45-minute boat ride.

Pagadian City, Zamboanga Del Sur: The Little Hongkong Of The South

Pagadian City, Zamboanga Del Sur: The Little Hongkong Of The South

It is located within the tropics of the northern hemisphere which has pronounced dry season from January to March and rainy season from April to December. The region is generally not affected by tropical storms and typhoons as it is located outside the Philippine Typhoon Belt. Temperatures range from 22.2 °C (72.0 °F) to 32.9 °C (91.2 °F). The prevailing winds are the southwest wind that blow shot gust wind from over the sea during dry seasons going northeast, and the trade winds brought about by the mountain range. Rainfall distribution is moderate from 2,500 mm to 3,000 mm annually.

The Philippines, being a country archipelago of islands and seas, have naturally wonderful beaches, some of which are famous the world over. Beaches like Puerto Galera, Boracay, and the various beaches in Cebu rake in tourists from around the world all year round because of their pristine and cool blue waters and fine, white-sand shores. However, if one will just look around more, they will find that there are other less-known but equally beautiful beach spots in other parts of the Philippines. In Pagadian, in particular, there are beaches and islands that will make one believe that there is such a thing as a secluded paradise on Earth.

A nice place to start would be the Dao-Dao Islands some seven to ten minutes away from the seaport, when riding a motorboat. It is a rather big island, with an area size of about 1.1057 hectares. The coral reefs are artificially made, but the whole place is very much ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. During low tides, a smaller, more undeveloped island appears and like the rest, is also suitable for fishing and swimming. There is also the White Beach that, as its name suggests, is a stretch of white sand beach just minutes southeast of the seaport. Again, it can be reached via motorboat. The clear, deep, blue waters (even during low tides) are excellent for swimming and diving.

The Bomba Beach, located in barangay Bomba some 2 kilometers away from the city, is also a good area for swimming and fishing, with a bomba bridge and natural coral reefs. The Muricay Beach is located further away, at 4 kilometers, but the white sands and clear seas more than make up for the distance. There are also mangrove tracts and seaweed plantations nearby, for those who are interested in such plant specimens. Finally, Poloyagan Beach have rocky outcroppings and coral reefs so one should be careful in trekking them.

Kalinga-Apayao In The Cordillera Region

Kalinga-Apayao is the province of the Philippines in the Cordillera Administrative Region in the island of Luzon. It is bounded on the north and east by Cagayan Province, on the south by Kalinga, on the southwest by Abra, and on the west by Ilocos Norte.  High mountains characterized most of the province with small flatlands in its border with Cagayan especially in the northeast. Seasons in the province are not very pronounced but the months of November up to April are relatively dry while the rest of the year is relatively wet. It is accessible by land either through Cagayan or Ilocos Norte. The Apayao tribe occupy most of the province with some Kalingas and Ilocano residents. It is the country's least populated province with only 24 persons per square kilometer. 

During the Second World War, Japanese Fighter and Bomber planes was invasion in the province of Kalinga-Apayao around the bombings and destroyed the air raids was around the towns and municipalities on December 1941 during the Japanese Invasion of the Philippines. Before the Japanese air raid at Camp John Hay in Baguio City in December 8, 1941. The soldiers of the Imperial Japanese armed forces was occupied and entering the provinces of Kalinga-Apayao.

The aftermath of four mounths of battle and through the surrender of all Igorot and Cordilleran soldiers and officers of the 11th Infantry Division, Philippine Commonwealth Army, USAFFE by the Japanese hands during the Fall of Bataan and Bataan Death March on April 9, 1942.

Many Igorot and Cordilleran men and women was joining the group of local guerrilla resistance fighters in Kalinga-Apayao was fought against the Japanese Imperial forces in Northern Luzon. Meanwhile, many Igorot and Cordilleran men was joining the group of soldiers and military officers of the Philippine Commonwealth Army under the U.S. Military Command is a locating of some military general headquarters and military camps and garrisoned in Kalinga-Apayao and around in Northern Luzon.

The Rice Terraces In Ifugao

Banaue rice terraces has been described as the eighth wonder of the world. Carved out of the hillside by Ifugao tribes people 2000 to 3000 years ago without the aid of machinery to provide level steps where the natives plant rice. And they are still in use today.

Banaue rice terraces stretch like stepping stones to the sky - some reaching an altitude of 1500m (4920ft). It is considered as one of mankind's greatest engineering feat. If the terraces were laid end to end, they would stretch half way around the world.

One of the major appeal of Banaue rice terraces to the local and international tourist are the many hiking trails in the area. There are many young locals, mostly college students who serve as guides. But with or without a guide, you will find the friendliness and warmth of the Ifugao people endearing.

The Terraces
There are 4 major rice terraces sites in Ifugao. They are similar yet distinct from one another such that the UNESCO has included all of them in the world heritage list, the first to be inscribed as a continuing living cultural landscape.

Banaue

The most famous of all the sites, is a leading tourist destination. The artistic center of the Ifugao, it is a home to the Ifugao carvers (when Hapao used to be part of the municipality) whose marvellous creations are seen throughout the country. Also traded in the daily market different kinds of traditional fabric, like the woven bark cloth and dyed ikat cloth and the traditional jewelry, pfu-ong, representing good luck in hunting or the prosperity of children. These additional sources of income merely supplement what they earn from rice production of "tinawon" rice in red, black and white varieties.

Batad

Located in Banaue is home to the tiered, amphitheater-shaped terraces. A 12 kilometer ride from Banaue Hotel plus a 2 hour hike uphill through mountain trails brings you to a spectacular view of the terraces.

Mayoyao

Lies right within the rice terraces some 44 kilometers from Banaue. Mount Mayoyao marks the border between the majestic Mayoyao Terraces and Banaue Terraces. The Ifugao Hananga and Ayyangan tribes dwell in this area. The mountainous setting makes it a perfect hideaway. In fact, it lies on Gen. Aguinaldo's escape route to the Sierra Madres during the Philippine revolution. At Harvest time in June and July, each house prepares rice wine to offer visitors and everyone rejoices in the bounty of the season. The organic Ifugao rice, Tinawon in red and white varieties is harvested in abundance.
Hapao
 
Located in Hungduan is another important rice terraces site. It's stone-walled rice terraces date back to 650 AD. The ingenious terraces are protected by clean stone walls rising along the Hapao river and irrigated by winding stone canals. Built over time by pounding layers of stones and earth behind the stone wall or dikes, each layer was gradually covered with new and finer soil topped by cleat soil which allows water to fill each terrace with measured precision retaining 1 to 4 mm. of water throughout the year.
The ancient arts of carving and metal smiting are very much alive here. Near Hapao, smiths have been making the Ifugao bolo or machete since the 17th century. It is claimed that the fine Ifugao woodcarving tradition originated in this area.

Baguio City

BAGUIO CITY– A Deed of Absolute Sale (DAS) dated September 16 has been signed between the national government and SM Investments Corporation over a 31, 688 sq. m. lot where SM-Baguio now stands despite overlapping city and private interests.

The information was conveyed by one SM Mall manager Marc Janssen Pe to City Building and Architecture Office (CBAO) chief Oscar Flores in a letter dated October 15 purportedly for securing a building permit.

It could be remembered the City Council committee on lands in 2008 was tasked to investigate how SM acquired the property despite adverse claims.

The investigation was sparked by privilege speeches of erstwhile councilor Rocky Balisong. The former alderman maintained the cyber building lot (fronting Sunshine Park) is owned by Placido Carantes.

On the other hand, the city through Resolution 265-2009 pleaded to then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for the issuance of a proclamation designating lots X-1 and Y-2 for purposes of establishing a “Technology Information Center” under the auspices of the City Government.

SM acquired the properties all located in Residential Section “A” following an auction sale, April 22, 1992, for a bid price of P69,999,995.52 in six separate amortizations ending in 1997.

The DAS provided, “As a result of the survey conducted October 2003 [and] after due consideration of [easements and servitudes in Commonwealth Act 141, area available] for conveyance under this instrument is 31,688 sq. m.”

Said area were more particularly described as Lot Nos. 3-B, 114-A, 128, 115-B, 125-A, 126-B-2, 126-A, X-1 and Y-2.  

The DAS was signed between SM attorney-in-fact Carlo Olampay and Aquino as represented by executive secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. for the Republic of the Philippines.  

Balisong earlier contended the property could have been sold higher than its appraised value.

The property's market value was P1,500.00 per sq. m. SM bought the lot at P2,027.34 per sq. m.

In November 2005, Samuel Peñafiel, then regional executive director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) – Cordillera was ordered by the central office to issue a DAS to SM.

A draft was prepared by DENR-Cordillera but lawyer Erwin Tiamson pointed out the DAS must be in accord to the provisions of Sec. 57 of the 1987 Administrative Code: “Conveyances amounting to at least P50 million shall be executed by the President.”

In 2010, heirs of Carantes entered a fenced portion of the property where SM-Baguio now stands and demanded SM management to vacate the premises.

The heirs also filed complaints of trespassing, grave coercion, theft at the Baguio City Prosecutors Office. Grave threats were also filed against the security agency which guards SM.

The Chocolate Hills in Bohol

The Chocolate Hills are probably Bohol's most famous tourist attraction. They look like giant mole hills, or as some say, women's breasts, and remind us of the hills in a small child's drawing. Most people who first see pictures of this landscape can hardly believe that these hills are not a man-made artifact. However, this idea is quickly abandoned, as the effort would surely surpass the construction of the pyramids in Egypt. The chocolate hills consist of are no less than 1268 hills (some claim this to be the exact number). They are very uniform in shape and mostly between 30 and 50 meters high. They are covered with grass, which, at the end of the dry season, turns chocolate brown. From this color, the hills derive their name. At other times, the hills are green, and the association may be a bit difficult to make.


The shape of the hills, known as a geomorphologic structure, is known as a mogote. Although they have been formed through the solvation of their limestone by thousands of years of rain there is another factor in Bohol.
There is a great deal of erosion by rivers after they had been uplifted above sea level. The farmland that separates the hills is full of rivers and caves with underground springs and these have contributed to the unique shape of the Chocolate Hills.


Once you are there, you will surely marvel at the sight before you. It’s actually quite tempting to cross the borders and take pictures or try climbing each of the chocolate hills but that’s not quite possible. Depending on the season, you will notice that the hills will be either green or brown or even a combination of both. Actually, the name of this tourist spot was due to the color it takes during summer or the dry season. The hills get that perfect chocolate color making them look like a bunch of chocolate products from a well known brand. But during the rainy days, the chocolate hills are usually colored in bright green from the entire plantation given life by the rains.

Taal Volcano

 

Taal Volcano is located about 60 km SSE of Metro Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It is a complex volcanic system composed of a small volcanic island (Volcano Island), which has been the site of almost all historic activity, located within a 20x30 km lake-filled complex caldera(?) (Taal Lake, in older texts was also called Lake Bonbon), one of the great volcano-tectonic depressions of the world.


Taal as the Decade Volcano for the Philippines Thirty three eruptions have been recorded since 1572 at Taal, mostly on Volcano Island. The impacts of these eruptions were largely confined to the intracaldera area. Occasional violent activity, however, such as the 1754 plinian eruption, affected the entire region, including what is now the Metro Manila area with fallout. Some activity, such as the 1749 eruption, were accompanied by crustal disturbance and strong earthquakes, which generated ground fissures and pronounced subsidence that extended across Taal Lake. 

Taal Volcano, in the Philippines, was originally a huge volcano, that towered 18,000 feet up into the sky. It has been called the smallest active volcano, because it seems small now, but many people don't realize that it is one of the largest volcanoes in the world. It is located about 60-km south of Manila on "volcano island" inside a lake called Taal Lake, or Lake Taal. The picture of Taal volcano above, was taken from Tagaytay ridge. Actually, Tagaytay Ridge is the rim of the volcano! When the volcano was 18,000 feet high, Tagaytay ridge would have been only about a sixth of the way to the top of the volcano!! In the distance, across the lake, is Mt. Makulot. 

Pagsanjan Falls

 

Pagsanjan Falls is also known as its indigenous name “Magdapio Falls”. The falls have grown into a major tourist destination for the region and also one of the premiere world class tourist destinations in the Philippines. The Pagsanjan falls has its own natural beauty that fascinates the tourist from all over the globe. Travelers are ferried to the enthralling Pagsanjan falls with the native banka’s paddled by expert boatmen, it takes an hour going while the return trip is just around 45 minutes. Pagsanjan Falls is believed to be the one of the best water falls in the Philippines. It is an adventure that should not be missed.


Skilled and accredited boatmen will take you on a scenic boat ride at Magdapio River in order to reach the main falls, the famous Pagsanjan Falls. They used to be wooden bancas, but nowadays, the boats are made of fiberglass. On the way, you will be treated to the sight of other minor falls (approximately 20 of them), lush vegetation, and natural rock formations. Some say that monkeys occassionally appear and they throw branches or rocks to people, so you better wear a helmet just in case. Once you reach the main falls, you can take a raft ride through the falls and get a natural "back massage." You can also explore the Devil's Cave behind the falls, famous for its reverberating echoes. For the raft ride, you have to pay an extra PhP 90 and tip the boatmen. The highlight of this trip is the rapid descent downstream or what is known as "shooting the rapids'". Be prepared for the thrill of a lifetime as the expert boatmen manuever the boat skillfully through turbulent waters. It is interesting to know that a boatman is required to undergo a rigid six-month training in order to acquire a license/accreditation for guiding tourists on the ride to the falls.

My Childhood Paradise

When I was growing up, one of my favorite children's stories was (ironically) Peter Pan. There was just something about the idea of never growing up that appealed to my imagination. Neverland and its mermaids and pirates, Lost Boys and fairies, Indians and flying and happy thoughts--it was my childhood paradise. 


As I grew older, my tastes did too. I moved on to more mature books and more complicated tales. But the core of all my favorite stories was always adventure. My taste for adventure followed me through the books I read.



And as I put to rest each story and turned the last page on every tale, I wondered to myself when I would ever go on my own adventure. Would I ever find that my closet actually led to another world? Would a tornado ever come and take me to my personal Oz? 


Obviously not. And I got used to the idea, living my life normally, never quite making it to another plane of existence. Then, one day last week, I and a group of like-minded friends decided: if adventure won't come to us, why don't we go find our own adventures? Before we get too old to take risks and break rules. Before we lose the thirst to do crazy things and live life with a little insanity. Before we forget what Neverland looks like.


And so we drew up The Epic List -- fifteen things we will do, as a group, to bring a little spice to lives that are in danger of being allowed to become bland. The List (which I'll put up as soon as I can scan it) includes breaking some minor laws and taking a few easy tasks to the next level. Tonight we will do one of those things (aren't YOU curious what it might be ;D ). 


It's gonna be crazy. It's gonna be awesome. It's gonna be... EPIC. An epic adventure. :)

Honda Bay Palawan Island

Honda Bay is a bay on the eastern shore of the island of Palawan near Puerto Princesa City in the southwestern Philippines. The bay is used for both subsistence and commercial fisheries and recreation. Boats can be rented for the day and used for travel to nearby islands, many less than 45 minutes from the shore by boat. Honda Bay is ideal for snorkeling. Starfish are commonly found near islands such as Starfish Island. Puerto Princesa is the nearest port city, and is accessible by plane.

Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan is a group of islands that is popular for swimming, snorkeling, and diving destinations. Island-hopping in the Bay has also become a common thing for tourists, blue cool waters are scattered with islands that guarantee one of a pure-pleasure experience. From snorkeling in its clear waters to the more adventurous island hopping within its districts to simply having a picnic in the fine sand of its beach areas, Honda Bay is sure to leave a lasting impression on the visitor.

Pandan Island is different from the buko pandan thing, I think Pandan is a tree. Pandan Island is another snorkeling and fish feeding spot!! If you want fish gets near you, feed them. Have some small bread and feed them slowly. I was afraid at first because they look like piranhas, but nooooo fish are really wonderful!

 

Snake Island is a white sand beach named as such due to its elongated and winding sand bar resembling a snake. It is easily accessible from Puerto Princesa, the capital city of Palawan. Cottages are free at Snake Island but you can give any amount as donation. We asked one local to grill us a big "pampano" for P80.00. We brought our own lunch. Swimming galore. You can buy some bread at the sari sari store there and do some fish feeding. But be careful, there is also an 8 inch triggerfish participating the the fish feeding! Surprisingly, you can see schools of reef fish and clams at such a shallow water.

Siargao Surfing Capital of the Philippines and Hidden Paradise of Asia

Siargao is a tear-drop shaped island in the Philippine Sea situated 800 kilometers southeast of Manila in the province of Surigao del Norte. It has a land area of approximately 437 square kilometers. The east coast is relatively straight with one deep inlet, Port Pilar. The coastline is marked by a succession of reefs, small points and white, sandy beaches. The neighboring islands and islets have similar landforms.

Siargao is known as the surfing Capital of the Philippines, The Surfing Paradise in Asia, Siargao Island is truly one of the world's last great frontiers for surf exploration. Tired of the city lifestyle? Come, unwind and experience a different kind of Travel Adventure! Island Dream Palm Paradise Resort is just a minute away from the world known the surfing paradise "Cloud9". The resort offers a perfect setting for beach bumming or it can take you to an adventurous holiday retreat.

Siargao Island offers; under water caves, mounds, & pinnacles. Siargao Divers has explored and discovered some of the most remote dive spots in and around Siargao Island. Expect to see some of the most beautiful rock formations and coral slopes in the world here. There are still many undiscovered dive sites to be explored by you. Diving in Siargao Island has been long sought after by local Filipino scuba divers and foreigners alike.

Camiguin an Island Born of Fire

 

Camiguin is an island province of the Philippines located in the Bohol Sea, about 10 km (6.2 mi) off the northern coast of Misamis Oriental in Mindanao. It is the second-smallest province both in population and land area after Batanes. The capital of the province is Mambajao, and it is a part of the Northern Mindanao Region of the Philippines.

As a natural paradise, the island of Camiguin is perhaps unmatched anywhere else in Southeast Asia. This exquisite island province of varied ecosystem stirs the imaginations and baffles the mind. Camiguin boasts kilometers on untouched coastlines with swaying coconut trees and is dotted with hot and cold springs. Fine beaches offer sun-filled days of relaxation and the clear blue water, enchanting marine life and coral reefs beckon diving enthusiasts from all over the world.

Among the Province's major products are coconut, cassava, banana, camote, palay, corn, fruits, coffee and vegetables. Camiguin's volcanic soil has proved to be a fertile ground for planting various crops. At present, the Provincial government is looking into an agricultural program that would increase the cultivation of fruit trees and vegetables in Camiguin. The Province is also among the best abaca fiber producers in the country. Camiguin is proud of its natural resources, which include sulfur deposits, geothermal energy, agricultural lands and fishing grounds.

Panglao Island in Bohol

Bohol is blessed with a number of marvelous white beaches, which just await to be discovered and enjoyed.
Alona Beach is the most beautiful, and surely the most developed beach on Panglao is Alona Beach. Located at the Southwest of the island, this beach is about one and a half kilometers long, lined with nice resorts, which are great to stay for a some time, a number of well equiped diving establishments and pleasant places to eat out, if you do not want to eat at your resort's restaurant for a change.

Panglao is an island in the Philippines located in the Central Visayas, with an area of 80.5 sq. kilometers. Politically, it is divided into two municipalities: Dauis and Panglao, part of Bohol Province. Panglao is located southwest of the island of Bohol and east of Cebu. Currently Panglao is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines, famous for its beautiful dive spots and its coral reef, as well as many several islet ideal for beach bathing like the islets of Gak-ang and Pontod.

Panglao is the southernmost town of Bohol. It is one of the 2 towns on Panglao Island, the other being Dauis. It is of historical significance in that it was the place where the Spaniards went after an unfortunate experience in Cebu.  

It is said that the Spanish explorers who came to this island in 1803 named it Panglao after the world 'mapanglao', meaning 'lonesome place'. It is also one of the old towns of Bohol. It had a population of 6,543 in 1879.

The Bohol Sea Resort is situated directly on the beach of Danao on Panglao Island, Bohol, one of the most beautiful islands of the Philippines. This vacation paradise is furnished to the best European standards. It has 20 tasteful rooms and bungalows of different categories each with its own bath, Shower and CR, mini bar, air-conditioning and a terrace.
A freshwater swimming pool complete with its Pool bar, self contained diving base, as well as many other relaxation and sporting facilities offer fun for everyone.

Mactan Island Lapu Lapu, Cebu, Philippines

 

Mactan is an island located a few kilometres from Cebu Island in the Philippines. The island is part of Cebu Province and it is divided into Lapu-Lapu City and the municipality of Cordova. The island is connected to Cebu by the two bridges one of which is the Marcelo Fernan Bridge and the Mactan-Mandaue Bridge.

The Mactan-Cebu International Airpot, the country's second busiest airport is located on Mactan island. There are many things to do and see in Cebu City and Lapu Lapu City, Mactan Island, and whether you're used to Vegas, Hawaii or Dubai, there's something for everyone here. Belwow is a small selection of the more popular tourist attractions for those who enjoy activities both active and relaxed.

Visitors can visit both the Magellan and Lapu Lapu shrines while visiting the island. Mactan is also important as home of Mactan – Cebu International Airport, the country’s second busiest airport as well as the country’s largest export processing zone. Mactan is also well known for producing guitars and other musical instruments.

Facilities- A practice putting green and a driving range. Tee Houses located along the fairway. Golf equipment is also available. There is also a Finnish sauna, and locker rooms and showers for male and female. An attractive breezy club house with a well stocked bar and cafe with authentic island meals.

Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte

 

Pagudpud a 1st class municipality and a coastal resort town on the northernmost tip of Luzon in the Philippines. According to the latest census, Pagudpud has a population of 20,385 people in 3,804 households.

The town is bounded to the south by the town of Bangui and to the east by the Cordillera Mountain Range, the town of Adams and the province of Cagayan. The South China Sea lies to the west and north. The town rolls over mountains, hills, valleys and flat coastal land. It lies 45 miles (72 km) north of Laoag City, the provincial capital, and about 350 miles (560 km) north of Manila. They reside in 3,804 homes that are spread across 83 square miles (210 km²). Most make their living through farming, fishing and subsistence retailing. Tourism is a growing part of the economy. Pagudpud was made a municipality on February 5, 1954. Unlike Laoag City, the province's only autonomous city, Pagudpud derives its authority from the provincial government. It had previously been a part of the neighboring town of Bangui.

The Patapat viaduct is considered as the 4th longest bridge in the Philippines and the second northermost road of the island of Luzon. It is like a winding bridge beside the cliffs of the Cordillera Mountain Range It is about 1.5 kilometers long and elevated around 30 M above the sea. It connects the Maharlika Highway to Cagayan province. It was built for the purpose of minimizing landslide. Other buses bound to other northernmost province of the Philippines take this route.

Saud White Beach is very popular not only in the country but also to the other parts of the world. It is a favorite place for movie producers, foreign and local correspondents, foreign travel writers to shoot their films because of its breathtaking views and unique atmosphere. It is even featured in the Internet that makes it very popular, a world–class destination. The beach is along stretch sand framing the heart shaped calm emerald water of the Saud Bay.

Bantay Abot Cave means “a mountain with a hole.” A hole was found at the middle of the mountain where the waves were free to flash into its walls just like an open shore until it was wrecked by an earthquake during the 80’s. It is also called “the underground sea” for on top of the cave is a lustrous vegetative cover. Inside the cave is a church that once you are inside, you do not only hear the echoing sound of the waves, the chirping of the birds but you can also feel the cool breeze of the air.

Its shore has white sand mixed with fragments of shells and rocks that can be made as a décor. Parts of the shore are forms of rocks where you can sit and relax and enjoy a lucid view of the wide sea and verdant mountains.Bantay Abot Cave is located along the seacoast of Sitio Gaoa, Balaoi, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.

Timmangtang Rock is located along the coast of Barangay Balaoi, Pagudpod, Ilocos Norte, Philippines.

During summer and when the tide is low, one can leisurely hike from the shoreline to Timmangtang Rock and once there, relax and enjoy the feel of the cool sea breeze while feasting one's eyes on the calm, blue water and the distant horizon. The more adventurous visitors can indulge in carefree mountain climbing, engage in banca sailing, and explore an awe-inspiring cave beneath the blue waters.

Nacatnagan Cliff is a portion of a mountain of Sitio Gaoa which is 150 feet above sea level. Nacatnagan is an Ilocano word meaning fell down. Stories of old folks tell that during the olden times, two carabaos climbed the other side of the mountain and then fell down on the cliff, thus it is name Nacatnagan. The cliff is a virgin forest where different kinds of trees grow and you could hear the peeping of the birds. Wild animals can also be found within the place thus it is a perfect place for hunting. Rare ferns and wild orchids grow abundantly at the foot and at the slopes of the mountain. It is also a good site for mountain climbing because of its steep and slippery trails. On top of it, you can glimpse the panoramic view of the Pasaleng Bay, Maira-ira Point and the totality of the out of this world scene of Sitio Gaoa, Babuyan Island can also be viewed on a clear day.

Malingay Cove, popurlarly known as Blue Lagoon, in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.  At the far north of the cove are two islets called Dos Hermanos. The crystal blue waters, white sand and the isolation of this beach attract backpackers, adventure-seekers and those who enjoy some peace and quiet.  Blue Lagoon is 2.5 kilometers from the highway while Pagudpud is approximately 561 kilometers north of Manila.

Dos Hermanos Islands is one of the resort areas of the municipality of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. This place is known as the Blue Lagoon. By car, this place is 1.5 hours from the city of Laoag. Blue Lagoon is one of the less commercialized resorts in Pagudpud as it is far from the main highway.

 

Boracay Island, Philippines

Boracay is part of the municipality of Malay in the province of Aklan, which is located in Panay. Boracay can be reached from Manila by daily flights on Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines, Asian Spirit, Seair and Pacific Air. The larger aircraft of Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Air Philippines fly to Kalibo, the capital of Aklan. From Caticlan it takes about 15 minutes by boat to Boracay; from Kalibo, an hour and a half by bus plus the 15-minute boat ride.


Yapak is spread out over hilly terrain situated some distance away from the main tourist beat, but the shoreline is dotted with beautiful, uncrowded beaches and coves such as Puka Beach and Balinghai Beach . The island's only golf club, the 18-hole par-72 course at Fairways & Bluewater , is also located in Yapak. The Bat Caves , a popular destination for nature lovers, can be found at the barangay's northeastern tip. 


White Beach Boracay's biggest tourist attraction, stretches some four kilometers on the western side of the island, mostly within the barangay of Balabag. It is largely because of the pristine, white powdery sand of White Beach and the crystal-clear blue water of the surrounding sea that Boracay is often called "the world's most beautiful tropical island." 


If you prefer peace and quiet, avoid accommodation at the centre of White Beach, as this is the most crowded area. Head further north or south instead. The area south of boat station 3 has a more relaxed and peaceful vibe - no pounding disco till 4AM. Accommodation is more reasonably priced, and there are some friendly little bars and restaurants where you can meet people and chat. North of station 1 you'll find many of the more luxurious (and expensive) establishments. The beach is at it's widest here, and the area is usually relatively peaceful.