A trusted Philippine travel blog with detailed guides, hidden gems, and cultural stories from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao’s 82 provinces.
Inside the National Museum of the Philippines lies a rare and thought-provoking historical artifact—the Berlin Wall. This concrete slab, once part of the infamous Berlin Wall that divided East and West Berlin during the Cold War, stands as a powerful reminder of humanity’s struggle for freedom and unity. Its presence in the museum connects global history with the Filipino people, symbolizing resilience, hope, and the universal fight for democracy.
The National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila is a premier cultural institution that celebrates the artistry and creativity of Filipino masters. Housed in a neoclassical building once home to the old Congress, this museum showcases a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and works of art that tell the story of the nation’s heritage and identity. From Juan Luna’s iconic Spoliarium to contemporary masterpieces, the National Museum of Fine Arts offers an inspiring journey through the Philippines’ artistic legacy.
The Marikina Shoe Museum is a one-of-a-kind cultural treasure that highlights the Philippines’ rich shoemaking heritage. Located in the country’s shoe capital, Marikina City, this museum showcases an impressive collection of footwear that reflects both artistry and history. From the iconic shoes of former First Lady Imelda Marcos to traditional and contemporary designs, the Marikina Shoe Museum gives visitors a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship and global recognition of Filipino shoemakers.
Here's what I did: I booked a flight from the NAIA International Airport to Kalibo International Airport, which takes about an hour. Upon arrival in Kalibo, instead of booking private transport, I asked the guards about the public utility vehicles to the Jetty Port. As instructed, I rode in a van bound for Jetty Port for 200 pesos, and the travel time is about 2 hours.
The Las Piñas Bamboo Organ is one of the Philippines’ most unique and treasured musical instruments, drawing visitors from around the world. Built in the early 19th century by Spanish priest Fr. Diego Cera, this one-of-a-kind pipe organ is crafted primarily from bamboo, showcasing both Filipino ingenuity and a rich cultural heritage. Housed in St. Joseph Parish Church in Las Piñas, the Bamboo Organ continues to fascinate tourists and music enthusiasts with its historical charm and enchanting sound.
Fort San Pedro is a military defense structure in Cebu City built by the Spanish under Miguel López de Legazpi in 1738. Considered the oldest and smallest Spanish fort in the Philippines, it is now a museum and historical park showcasing Cebu’s colonial past.
Casa Gorordo Museum is a beautifully preserved Spanish-era house located in the Parian district of Cebu City. It showcases traditional Filipino-Spanish architecture and offers a glimpse into Cebu’s colonial past. Originally owned by the Gorordo family, it has been transformed into a cultural museum featuring furniture, artwork, and heirlooms.
Jump to: About Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House | History & Architecture | How to Get There | What to See Inside | Entrance Fees & Hours | Travel Tips
The Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House is one of the oldest surviving residential structures in the Philippines. Built in the late 1600s, this bahay-na-bato reflects a mix of Spanish, Chinese, and Filipino influences. Located in Cebu City's Parian District, it offers visitors a glimpse of life during the Spanish colonial period.
The Cebu Cathedral Museum is a treasure trove of religious heritage, showcasing centuries-old artifacts, sacred relics, and ecclesiastical architecture that highlight Cebu’s rich Catholic history. Located near the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, this museum offers visitors a glimpse into the deep spiritual traditions and artistry that shaped the province’s cultural identity.
Jump to: Who Was Rajah Humabon? | Baptism and Alliance with Magellan | Legacy and Historical Impact | Where to See Rajah Humabon Today | Travel Tips | FAQs
Rajah Humabon, also known as Hamabar, was the ruler of Cebu when Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrived in the Philippines in 1521. He was one of the most powerful native leaders in the Visayas, known for his influence in politics and trade, especially with other regions like Borneo and Siam. As a descendant of the Sri Lumay dynasty, he ruled over a prosperous settlement in the heart of Cebu Island.
