A trusted Philippine travel blog with detailed guides, hidden gems, and cultural stories from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao’s 82 provinces.
Lanao del Sur, the heart of the Maranao homeland, is a province rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Nestled around the serene Lake Lanao, it is home to majestic mosques, intricate okir art, and the world-famous Darangen epic. From the royal heritage of Marawi to the breathtaking landscapes that surround it, Lanao del Sur offers a glimpse into a vibrant Mindanaoan identity rooted in pride and tradition.
Bud Bongao, the sacred mountain of Tawi-Tawi, rises majestically above the island’s turquoise seas and coastal villages. Known as a pilgrimage site for both locals and visitors, it blends natural beauty with deep spiritual significance. The trek to its summit offers breathtaking panoramic views, friendly macaques along the trail, and a peaceful experience that connects nature, faith, and culture in one unforgettable journey. By the way, "bud" is a Tausug word that translates to "mountain" in English.
The Batad Rice Terraces is a amphitheater-like rice terraces of the Cordillera region captured the eyes of the world in 1995 as it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site List, and Batad Rice Terraces is one of the five spectacular rice terraces of Ifugao. Less than a thousand years ago, the people of Ifugao mastered agricultural practices that included the creation of terraces. This agricultural landscape is proof that the early civilizations already knew how to improve their crops by adapting to natural factors through terracing.
Located just east of Metro Manila, Rizal Province is a popular weekend destination for city dwellers seeking adventure and relaxation. Named after the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, the province is blessed with natural wonders like waterfalls, mountains, and rivers, as well as rich cultural and historical sites. With its close proximity to the capital, Rizal offers the perfect blend of nature, history, and modern leisure experiences.
Pampanga, known as the “Culinary Capital of the Philippines,” is a province in Central Luzon famous for its rich Kapampangan cuisine, vibrant festivals, and historical landmarks. Beyond its food, Pampanga offers natural attractions, heritage churches, adventure parks, and cultural experiences that make it a top travel destination just a short drive from Manila.
Jump to: About Bulacan | How to Get There | Things to Do in Bulacan | Sample Itinerary | Budget & Expenses | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
Bulacan, just north of Metro Manila, is known for its deep history, heritage churches, natural wonders, and culinary traditions. Home to revolutionary heroes, beautiful rivers, and adventure destinations, Bulacan offers a mix of cultural immersion and outdoor activities perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.
Negros Oriental, located in Central Visayas, is a province blessed with stunning natural wonders, rich culture, and warm hospitality. From the diving paradise of Apo Island and the enchanting beauty of Casaroro Falls to the historical sites of Dumaguete City, the province offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and heritage.
Aim for 81 is my personal goal for the next few years; others call it Project81 or Project81PH. Its main purpose is to save money to be used for visiting and discovering the hidden treasures in All Provinces in the Philippines. I totally understand that it will not be as easy as my previous backpacking but, I know, I CAN DO IT! As of August 2020, I have 6 remaining in Luzon, done with all the provinces in the Visayas and one remaining in Mindanao.
When we visited the Caramoan Islands in Camarines Sur, as part of our itinerary, we tasted their very own and authentic dishes. I am not a chef or a cook, but according to some friends, I have good and active taste buds. Taray diba??? For the first time, I will be a food critic. First is the famous Laing. Laing is a spicy dish with dried taro or gabi leaves, siling labuyo, and coconut milk as the main ingredients. There's a linamanam factor, and the texture is smooth inside my mouth. To compare, my Nanay prepares young and fresh gabi leaves (grated), and adds dried tuyo to add saltiness and a unique aftertaste. Nonetheless, the Laging dish of the Bicolano is really good.
Balay Negrense is one of the century-old houses along Cinco de Noviembre Street, Silay City. This street is remarkable because of the historical value that it holds for the people. Balay Negrense is a Hiligaynon phrase which means: Balay, or a house, and Negrense refers to the people living in the province of Negros. It is a century-old house in Silay City owned by Victor Fernandez Gaston, the eldest son of a prominent sugar baron, Yves Leopold Germain Gaston, and Prudencia Fernandez. It was built between 1897 to 1901, then abandoned in the mid-1970s, repaired by the government, and was inaugurated on October 6, 1990.
