Hiking Mt. Binacayan, Rizal

Another famous mountain in Rodriguez, Rizal is Mt. Binacayan, a small but tiring to hike because of its terrain. Though, separated by Wawa River from Mt. Pamitinan, they almost have the same features in terms of the difficulty and trails types. There are fruit bearing trees, shrubs that bloom like ornaments, and the lullabies from birds can be heard. You will be certified as a "revel in trekking" because of the rock climbing and scrambling on the boulders and limestone cliffs with sharp edges.

Mt. Marami, a cool overnight camp

Mt. Marami is one of the hiking destinations in Southern Luzon because of its proximity from Manila. Not only that, it is also one of the most visited mountains in the province because of its simple and gradual trails. Walking on its terrain can give you relaxation because everything is surrounded by green while the mountain slopes from afar are picture-perfect. You can't stop yourself from a death-defying pose on the rock formation called "silyang bato." Fruit-bearing trees, coconuts, bananas and other crops can give you a farmville feeling while the birds are singing their lullabies.

Mt. Talamitam, Batangas

Though, no trees are dancing and birds singing, the nude shape of Mt. Talamitam makes it one of the hiking destinations in the Province of Batangas. Considered as a friendly mountain for beginners, this Talamitam can still bring a remarkable hiking experience to those seasoned in this field because of its soil type which is slippery and muddy during the wet season and hot during summer. As you can see on the photo above, this mountain is covered with green which brings a relaxing aura to the eyes.

MT. PICO DE LORO: HIKING GUIDE

Mt. Pico de Loro is also known as Mt.  Palay-palay located in Ternate, Cavite. Its name was given by the Spanish sea-fairer because it looks like a ‘parrot’s beak’ from afar. This mountain has a combination of beauty and trekking adventure. It has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty and richness. Birds are singing, colorful flowering plants on the ground, orchids hanging on the branches, bananas, and fruit-bearing trees like coconuts and mangoes. Reaching the top of the Monolith or the Parrot's Beak is a must-have because it will measure your fear and agility.

MT. DAMAS: HIKING GUIDE | TARLAC TOURIST SPOTS

Until now, Mt. Damas, the pride of Tarlac, is in debate if it’s really a minor or a major hike. Others would say it’s minor because of its elevation but others would say its major because of its trail type and technicalities. During our ascent, they are both correct, the entire journey was composed of an uphill and downhill trek with river crossing.  That doesn't end there, since it was the wet season, the muddy and slippery terrains made our journey remarkable. By the way, this mountain is the home of the eatas who protect the forest from illegal activities.

Mt. Daraitan & Tinipak River, an Overnight Hike

Mt. Daraitan, Tanay - when we saw the gorgeous photos of this mountain, we thought it's a perfect place to relax and re-energise with the positivity that nature possesses. Hiking this mountain and crossing the Tinipak River can definitely give you a unique experience because the place is surrounded with relaxing greens and the sound of the rushing water by the river preserves tranquility. Aside from this mountain, the province of Rizal has a lot to offer, from arts, crafts, food, rivers and mountains.

MT. MACULOT: HIKING GUIDE

I'll place Mt. Maculot as the second must climbed mountain in Batangas because of different factors. Can also be one of the best options for day hikes because of its minor trail type, and terrains that are covered with trees and surrounded by grass and shrubs, the air is the fresh, cool ambiance and a perfect location for a stunning shot with the world famous and most active Taal Volcano on the background. In addition, the Rockies is the best and famous part of Maculot.

Traverse Mt. Lubog to Mt. Hapunang Banoi

Mt. Hapunang Banoi is situated beside Mt. Pamitinan and separated by Wawa Dam from Mt. Binacayan. This mountain is now famous to the mountaineering world because it is surrounded by luscious green trees, making the area looks so relaxing and the wind is cool, clean and fresh. Plus, the exhilarating terrains added an adventure to hikers; a perfect place to relax and Instagram worthy.

MT. CRISTOBAL: 2021 HIKING GUIDE | QUEZON TOURIST SPOTS

Mt. Cristobal is one of the famous mountains in Luzon because of the the countless stories, rumors and legends about "ghost" and other extra terrestrial events. As a result, the title "devil's mountain" was given to this pride of Quezon. Aside from those, Cristobal also hides an amazing terrains, surrounded with a dense forest areas. There are mosses, ferns and orchids hanging on the branches, a proof that this wildlife sanctuary is still preserved. Also, the ambiance and weather is cool because its stands 1,470 MASL. CLICK TO WATCH MY MT. CRISTOBAL VLOG

Mt. Guiting-guiting, Romblon (Hike Guide + Itinerary)

Mt. Guiting-guiting in Sibuyan, Romblon is famous in the world of mountaineering because of its majestic beauty and is listed as one of the most difficult mountains to climb in the Philippines. Garnered a nine over nine rating in terms of difficulty, this mountain hides an unspoiled beauty and vast diversity of flora and fauna on the summit. Plus, trekking this forested mountain slopes can provide a great hiking experience. Also, G2, another name given to the mountain, is just one of the must visit spots in Romblon aside from the marble products, the province also has a lot of gorgeous and breathtaking beaches and dive sites awaiting to be discovered.

Mt. Ugo Traverse (Hiking Guide + Itinerary)

Traversing Mount Ugo is a bit long because it is one of the giants in Luzon. Our traverse was a two-day hiking itinerary from Brgy. Kayapa, Nueva Vizacaya to Itogon, Benguet. The terrain has a relaxing and cool ambiance, surrounded by stunning greens. Ugo, others call it Mt. Ugu, bears colorful ornaments spread on the trails and hanging on the trees. Of course, there are birds singing their lullabies. Definitely one of the must visit attractions and destinations in Benguet.

Mt. Timbak, Benguet (Hiking Guide + Itinerary)

I've been hearing from friends that Mt. Timbak and Mt. Tabayoc are just two of the must hiked mountains in the Cordilleras. In terms of altitude, this mountain stands 2,717 MASL and garnered an easy trail class - which I think is true. Among the provinces in CAR, Benguet is really a bomb and prominent to tourist, especially hikers, because of its rich forested mountain slopes, hike on relaxing ambiance and a beauty that can only be found in nature, plus a glimpse of the local livelihood.

Top 6 Tourist Spots in Tawi-Tawi + Guide

For me, the Province of Tawi-Tawi is the hardest province to penetrate because of its geographical location. Not only that, it is always associated with "war" and most of the time, being judged and considered as "unsafe" for travelers, WHICH I DISAGREE! Bongao is the busiest municipality in the province but has a lot of stunning tourist spots and destinations that are just waiting to be recognized.

ISABELA CITY, BASILAN: TOURIST SPOTS + 2023 TRAVEL GUIDE

Traveling to Isabela City, Basilan is less than two hours from the port of Zamboanga City. Is it safe in Basilan? It's a YES! There are news about ASG and terrorist acts happening in the province, but it doesn't mean that it's not safe. There are two cities in Basilan, Lamitan (the capital) and Isabela (part of Region 9), that serve as the center. Like the other cities, huge business establishments, transportation and people are present in every corner. From the port of Isabela City, while holding my mobile phone and using Google Map, I walked on the streets to the different tourist spots, attractions and destinations in the city. Did this alone and it's safe.

Butuan City, Agusan del Norte: Top Tourist Spots + 2024 Travel Guide

VISIT BUTUAN NATIONAL MUSEUM: This branch of the National Museum houses a collection of relics discovered in the region. There are ceramics, earthenware, locally woven fabrics, paintings, books, jars, skeletons, and many more. Each of the items is enclosed in glass cabinets while the others are on the walls.

The Capitol, Sultan Kudarat: Top Tourist Spot + Travel Guide

The provincial capitol of Sultan Kudarat is situated in Isulan and according to reviews, it is one of the most beautiful capitols in the Philippines - it's definitely a big YES for me. The capitol compound is 9.2 hectares covered with well maintained landscape, while the artistic structures is based on Islamic architecture, painted with white and gold. On the other hand, in the middle of the capitol ground, there's a gigantic golden statue of Sultan Kudarat whom the province was named after.

ISLA JARDIN DEL MAR, SARANGANI: TOP TOURIST SPOT + TRAVEL GUIDE

Upon arrival at Island Jardin del Mar, I easily heard the relaxing rushing waves hitting the shoreline. After paying the entrance fee, with excitement, I headed to the side where the sound came from and found a stretch of fine white sand and playful crystal clear water. Not only that, the emerald seas, the coconuts, and the trees by the beach serve as a perfect backdrop. By the way, the wind is cool and fresh and the area has a relaxing ambiance - perfect for family outing and weekend getaway.

Top 4 Must Visit and See in Ozamis City, Misamis Occidental

After my historical tour in Dipolog and Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte, I traveled to Ozamis City in Misamis Occidental (Region 10). Its capital is Oroqueta City but I chose Ozamis because I want to see and touch Fort sa Cotta and the Ozamis Cathedral. On the way, I noticed the wide farmlands but when I arrived in the center, this city is the same with the other cities, business establishments are in every corner, transportation is continuous and the streets are undeniably busy. From the Ozamis Integrated Terminal, I rode in a tricycle to the different tourist spots, attractions and destinations. CLICK TO WATCH MY VLOGS

Camiguin Top 7 Tourist Spots (Updated Travel Guide & Itinerary)

Every time I hear Camiguin, I usually think of the best lanzones in the Philippines and the underwater cemetery, but during our visit, we found that the province has a lot of world-class tourist spots and destinations. Backpacking is not a big problem here because at the port, multi-cab with a driver, can be chartered for the whole day tour (that’s what we did).

Pasalamat Festival and Top Tourist Spots in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur

After Ozamis City, Misamis Occidental, I traveled to Pagadian City, province of Zamboanga del Sur - the last province on my list. It was a three-and-a-half-hour land travel with a huge picture of how the people of the Zamboanga peninsula lives. At the integrated terminal, I rode on a motorcycle to the center of the city passing by the famous rotunda. I was wearing a sando, thus, I easily felt the fresh and cool wind while we were on a descending road with a clear view of the stunning sunset.

ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE: TOURIST SPOTS + 2023 TRAVEL GUIDE

It was a long travel from Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay to Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte. My primary destination in this province is Jose Rizal Shrine in Dapitan City - the place where  Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the Philippine National Hero, spent his few years when he was exiled but still made this life fruitful by working as a doctor, sculptor, farmer, teacher and participating other activities. Not only that, heritage houses are just some of the tourist spots and destinations in Dapitan City.

Maasin Cathedral, Southern Leyte

The top tourist spot and destination in Southern Leyte is Maasin Cathedral, a catholic place of worship in Maasin City. It was originally built in 1700 by the Jesuit priests; however, it was severely damaged because of the Moro’s rebels. The bricks and the mosses on the façade give an older and a unique look which is perfect for the modern selfies. This cathedral is definitely one of historical pillars in the province. Since it is situated in front of the plaza and a few meters away from the City hall, it is one of the busiest area in city.

Top 10 Best Samar Tourist Spots + Travel Guide

The San Juanico Bridge is the most visited tourist spot in Samar and Leyte. A few years ago, the province captured the attention of the world because of the devastation brought by Typhoon Yolanda. But, did you know that Samar also hides something in their mountainous and forested areas? These are breathtaking and definitely a splendor of nature’s beauty that needs to be discovered. Historical landmarks, waterfalls, and caves are just a few of the must-visit tourist spots and destinations in Samar island.

Capul Island, Northern Samar (Top Tourist Spot + Travel Guide)

Capul Island is one of the must-visit gems of Northern Samar. This island municipality can bring you back because of the famous century-old Capul lighthouse and Capul Church. If you’re into outdoors, you can explore the hidden and majestic caves or hop on and off the rock formations, by the shore, it’s your choice. If you just want to relax, no worries, the island is surrounded by crystal clear waters and the cool fresh air that blows continuously. The coconut and other trees create an amazing backdrop by the shore highlighted by the white sand beaches.

Leyte Top Tourist Spots + Travel Guide

The McArthur Landing Memorial Park in Palo, Leyte is one of the most visited landmarks in the province or even in the Philippines; this is to commemorate the historical landing of General Douglas MacArthur. The actual landing in October of 1944 was the start of the liberation of the Philippines from the Japanese occupation – the Second World War. The statues were created by Anastacio Caedo The significance of this park can be read on the historical markers placed in front of the park.

Top 2 Best Biliran Tourist Spots + Travel Guide

Biliran has a lot of stunning tourist spots and destinations to offer. Ulan-Ulan Falls and Tinago Falls are two of the famous and majestic waterfalls hiding in the mountains of the province. Naval, its capital, is now highly urbanized making it easy for travelers to discover and experience what they have. Since it has a lot of mountainous areas, the magnificence of nature is still waiting to be discovered. Not only that, they also have stunning beaches, great products, and friendly people.

Miagao Church, Iloilo (Santo Tomas de Villanueva)

Miag-ao Church or the Church of Sto. Tomas de Villanueva is an old baroque church in Miag-ao, Ilo-Ilo. It is one of the world-famous baroque churches in the Philippines and it became one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The construction of this church began in 1787 while Fray Francisco M. Gonzales. O.S.A. was the parish priest of Miag-ao and Domingo Libo-on was the Gobernadorcillo. The Church was completed in 1797 and it served as the fortress against the Muslim Raiders. In 1898, during the revolution, this church was destroyed but then it was rebuilt.

Things To Do in Guimaras (Tourist Spots + Travel Guide)

When we talk about mangoes, Guimaras will definitely be brought up on the topic because it is said that they have the “Sweetest Mango in the Philippines.” In relation to that, their local delicacies, with mango, are just mouth-watering. The residents must be proud of their breathtaking and stunning beaches, historical sites and other activities. They also have Manggahan Festival, an annual festivity to thank their bountiful mango harvest. It is a small island province that can be visited for the whole day but they can offer a lot to visitors.

Capiz (Tourist Spots + Travel Guide)

Roxas City is the capital of Capiz Province – the “Seafood Capital of the Philippines” situated in Western Visayas. If you are in Panay Island, it is highly recommend visiting Roxas City to witness and experience the heritage sites in the modern generation. The province has the most controversial and awaited annual festivity in the Philippines – the “Aswang Festival.” Politically, the city is prominent because it is the hometown of the late Philippine President Manuel A. Roxas. To complete my Western Visayas list, I listed the “9 Must Visit Tourist Destinations.”

APO WHANG OLD

Apo Whang Od is an indigenous tattoo artist from Kalinga province who uses an old style of tattooing called "Batok," or traditional hand-tapped tattooing. She became prominent because she has been featured on some local TV shows, international documentaries, magazines and others. Photos below will show the beauty of Buscalan, Kalinga and their traditional "batok."

Bakun Trio (Hiking Guides, Mountains, Things you need to know)

This event was an urgent decision. We met at Victory Liner Bus Terminal in Cubao and rode in a bus bound for Baguio. From Baguio City, we chartered a jeep to Bakun, Benguet. Travel time was within 4-5 hours. But before reaching our destination, we passed by different landmarks of the North, one of which was the Highest Point (photo above). The entire travel period was an adjustment period for our group and other participants.

Kaparkan Falls, Abra

Social media sites and travel blogs helped Kaparkan Falls to be one of the top destinations in the North. It is situated in the Municipality of Tineg, Province of Abra, part of the Cordillera Administrative Region. Traveling from Manila to Bangued, the capital of Abra, is more than 8 hours. Plus, another 2 -3 hours off-road to Sitio Kaparkan - the jump-off of Kaparkan Falls. As I always say: "time is just a number" but the reward will be a breathtaking and a stunning body of water - the majestic Kaparkan Falls! CLICK TO WATCH MY KAPARKAN FALLS VLOG 

The Pink Beach (Sorsogon Tourist Spots+ Travel Guide)

When I searched the tourist spots, attractions and destinations in the province of Sorsogon online, Google kept giving me articles about “the pink beach” and based on my stock knowledge, the “pink beach” can only be found in Zamboanga City. After browsing on the the articles, I finally knew that there’s another pink beach located in Matnog, Sorsogon. Aside from that, Google also suggested Juag Lagoon Marine Sanctuary. These spots are the perfect destination to end my 2019 summer bucket list.

Apuao Grande Island, Camarines Norte

For beach lovers, if we're talking about the beauty in Camarines Norte,  Calaguas is on top, correct? Now, I'll bring you to one of the unrated paradise in the entire Bicol region - the Apuao Island - it is one of the small island in Mercedes Group of Islands. This deserted island has a lot to offer, from the cool and crystal clear and emerald waters, wealthy underwater, breathtaking landscape, has tranquility and relaxing ambiance, and of course, the good people. Well, travel time is about 7 to 8 hours from Manila to Mercedes via private van but I was able to see and experience those.

Albay (6 Top Tourist Spots + Travel Guide)

The provinces of Albay, Sorsogon and Catanduanes are part of my solo-backpacking list, however, the reality started when I planned my Bicol itinerary two months ago - to complete Region 5. Legaspi City in Albay is the center of the Bicol region that showcases a lot of tourist spots and destinations; from historical sites, beaches, gorgeous landscapes, and to the remarkable activities and sumptuous delicacies. Here are the top tourist spots and destinations in Albay.

Top 3 Best Palawan Tourist Spots + Travel Guide

Palawan is the longest and one of the biggest provinces in the Philippines in terms of land area. This land area is gifted with beautiful tourist spots, must-visit tourist attractions, amazing tourist destinations, mouth water delicacies and great people. The beauty of  Palawan has a combination of white beaches with calm crystal clear water, gorgeous islands (Palawan is the best island in the world), world-class dive sites, caves, mountains and many more.

Oriental Mindoro (Top 3 Tourist Spots + Travel Guide)

Mindoro Island is divided into two provinces, Oriental and Occidental. Its main products are mostly agricultural but they also have beautiful and stunning tourist destinations that they can be proud of. From the historical sites to the beautiful white beaches, underwater richness, rain-forest from the mountains, and the people. I have tried solo backpacking to Mindoro several times and I can say that the people here are one of the most hospitable and friendly in the country. Here are some of the top tourist spots and destinations in Oriental Mindoro.

Top 8 Tourist Spots to Visit in Quezon Province

Quezon is one of the provinces near Manila with a lot to offer; either mountains, water and historical landmarks. Accessibility is not a problem because transportation is much easier plus the travel period is within 2 to 3 hours. Here are some of the must-visit tourist spots and destinations in Quezon province:

Your guide to the Tourist Spots in Laguna

Laguna is one of the tourist destinations in southern Luzon because it is just a two-hour travel from Manila. This province has a great combination of historical sites and nature that attract tourists from the Metro and other nearby provinces. Here are some of the top tourist spots and destinations in Laguna. First, Bunga falls located in Nagarlan, Laguna. According to the residents, there was plenty of bettle nut (bunga in local dialect) in the area,  so they derived the name of this waterfalls from this vine.

Top 10 Best Batangas Tourist Spots

 

1. Manuel Uy Beach Resort

Looking for a gorgeous place to relax near Metro Manila? How about a beautiful landscape by the beach, sounds interesting right? Stunning beaches and resorts near the metro can be found in the province of Batangas in Southern Luzon; Manuel Uy Beach Resort is one of the must-visit place in the Calatagan, a 3-4 hours road travel from Manila. Travel time might be tiring but our journey to our destination was unforgettable.

ZAMBALES (Tourist Spots, Travel Guides, Things you need to know)

Again, the province of Zambales became more popular because of the issue about the West Philippine Sea with China. The long stretch of shoreline, facing the West Philippine Sea, has fine white sand, the water is crystal clear, the ambiance is absolutely refreshing and more to offer. Having said that, since it is already considered as tourist destination, beach resorts created a variety of water activities like scuba diving.

Best Places to Visit Tarlac

Tarlac: List of Top Tourist spots and 2023 Travel Guide

1. Visit the Ruins of Camiling Church

The province of Tarlac is situated in Central Luzon, surrounded by the provinces of Zambales, Pangasinan, and Nueva Ecija; a 2 to 3 hours travel from Metro Manila. Tarlac is also one of the provinces that hold a huge part in Philippine history. When I visited part of this province, the wide rice fields and mountainous areas are very noticeable. The entire area, even the city, is surrounded by the relaxing green colors. Photo above is the St. Michael The Archangel Parish Church or the Camiling Parish Church.

Top 5 Best Tourist Spots in Bataan

Historically speaking, Bataan is one of the provinces in the Philippines that has a huge contribution to Philippine history, political or not. Bataan belongs to Region 3 or commonly known as the Central Luzon provinces. This province is separated by Manila de Bay from the NCR and the province of Cavite. During my visit in the province, I noticed that the people are accommodating and are living in a simple way. Aside from that, Bataan also has a lot to offer in terms of tourist destinations.

Cagayan Valley (Tourist Spots + 2023 Travel Guide)

Palaui Island is one of the virgin islands situated in the municipality of Sta. Ana, Cagayan province. It became prominent because it was the location where the two seasons of Survivor, a hit US TV reality show,  were held. Palaui is a small island but has a lot to offer such as the historical Cape Engaño Lighthouse, the artistic rock formation of Dos Hermanas Island, the fine white sand of Mabolbol Shore and the flora and fauna along Siwangag and Lagunzad trails. Of course, the serenity and the breathtaking beauty are well preserved - fewer visitors due to its topographical location.

Beautiful Places in Ilocos Sur (Tourist Spots + 2024 Travel Guide)

WALK ALONG CALLE CRISOLOGO IN VIGAN CITY: Vigan City is the capital of Ilocos Sur established in the 16th century. Vigan City captured the eyes of the world because it was listed by UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1999 as one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial towns in Asia. Calle Crisologo, in Vigan city, has a combination of the past and the current; from the Spanish colonial and ancestral houses, streets paved with cobblestone, and the calesa drawn by the horses. Today, some old establishments are converted into shops and hotels to accommodate the thousands of tourists.

Ilocos Norte (Tourist Spots, DIY Travel Guide, Things you need to know)

ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF PAGUDPUD: Situated at the Northern tip Luzon, Pagudpud is one of top tourist attractions and destinations in Ilocos Norte. It also claims the title: "Boracay of the North" - that's according to the tourists and travelers who experienced its beauty. Pagudpud has a similarity with Boracay from the white sand shoreline, to the crystal clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, to the relaxing and cool sea breeze, to the golden sunset, up to the remarkable activities during the day and parties in the evening.

SILANGUIN COVE, Zambales - a Travel Guide

The province of Zambales is facing the West Philippine Sea, so it is well known for its gorgeous fine white sand and crystalline waters. Silanguin Cove is on the top of the list because its beautiful coastline is highlighted by the amazing slopes of the mountains on the background. Other prominent beaches are Crystal Beach, Anawangin Cove, Talisayin Cove and Nagsasa Cove. Who doesn't know about the Scarborough Shoal, it is just few kilometers from here.

Anawangin Cove (Camping, Travel Guide, Things you need to know)

We traversed Mt. Pundaquit to Anawangin Cove during a super hot summer vacation - it was my first time to see this beauty. And after half a decade, I finally made a comeback and witnessed the other side. Among the coves in Zambales, this stunning beach is the most prominent and most visited place making this gorgeous spot a tent city during summer. This time, we camped at the right spot!

Liwliwa, Zambales

Liwliwa, Zambales - our group, Batang Hamog Mountaineers, has been participating the annual celebration of the Philippine Independence by creating an activity focusing about #Kalayaan, #Kasarinlan, #Freedom, or #Independence. This year's event was Freedom Surf 2018 held at Home Break Hostel, one of the simple resorts in Liwliwa, Zambales. If you're unfamiliar with this spot, it's normal because prominent surfing spots usually are Siargao, Baler, La Union and many others. Now Liwliwa, in Zambales, is the newest addition to the list.

BEGA FALLS, Agusan del Sur

The Bega Falls is the newest tourist destinations in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. Its name is derived from a local word "Bega" which literally translates to "flirt" in English. According to the local folk story, the area is the home of the mystical women. One that is sure, Bega falls is picture perfect because of its a majestic landscape. From the crystal clear waters free flowing from the towering limestone cliffs carpeted with ferns and mosses. The strong water pressure created a natural pool at the base that serves as a swimming pool.