Siquijor – Backpacking in the Mystical Island

You will be under a spell of its beauty as you visit its top destinations. Siquijor Province is known as the "Esla del Fuego" or the "island of fire" because of the mystical fireflies. It is believed that if you see these luminous lights, it is an indication that magic is taking place. By the way, if the province of Capiz is known for its "aswang" and "manananggal," this province is commonly known as "Siquihorror" because of the shamanism and witchcraft. Regardless of whether it's true or not, I was enchanted by this mystical province.

Siargao Island Travel Guide – Things to Do, Budget, and Itinerary

About Siargao Island

Siargao Island, located in Surigao del Norte, is the surfing capital of the Philippines. It's famous for its laid-back vibe, crystal-clear waters, island hopping spots, and of course, Cloud 9 – one of the best surf breaks in Asia. Siargao is a must-visit for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. If you're not into surfing, like me, you can still enjoy the pristine beaches, explorable caves, fresh surroundings, and unique island lifestyle. With time pressure from the province of Dinagat Islands, I travelled here to discover its beauty.

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

1. Boracay Island

Today, just noticed that the weather is changing from cool to warm, humid air - proof that summer is almost here. To help you, I listed the 14 best and must-visit destinations in the Philippines. First, the world-famous Boracay Island. It is listed as one of the best beaches in the world according to travel agencies, websites, blogs, magazines, and other people’s reviews. The shoreline has fine white sand, the waters are crystal clear, cool and fresh, and there are a lot of activities to choose from.

Backpacking Guide in Albay, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes

This article includes a detailed and updated backpacking guide for Albay, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes. The purpose of this journey was to complete my Region 5 league. Initially, it was solo backpacking, but Tin, my friend, joined me. Traveling via land from Manila to this region can take 12 hours, which is challenging. As I always say, time is just a number; in exchange, you'll be rewarded with the stunning tourist spots and destinations of its 3 provinces.

Backpacking in Cagayan, Apayao, and Isabela

The provinces of Cagayan and Isabela are part of Region 2, while the province of Apayao is part of the Cordillera Administrative Region. Though these provinces are part of Luzon, due to their location, it's really hard to experience and discover the gorgeous tourist spots and destinations. Just recently, we visited these 3 lovely provinces and are now sharing the most updated itinerary.

7 Best Island to Visit Near Manila

1. Apuao Island

Apuao Island is situated in Mercedes, province of Camarines Norte, an 8 to 9 hours land travel from Manila and another 15 to 30 minutes boat ride to the island. It's better to take a rest while on the road because when you're on the island, you will definitely be busy enjoying its wealthy surroundings. Apuao has a long stretch and shapeless white sand shoreline. The white powdery sand has a mixture of shells, pebbles, and other crustaceans running back and forth. This island cannot be completed without a cool sea breeze and crystal clear waters. If you prefer an overnight, no worries, cottages or camping by the beach are the choices. Sari-sari stores, toilets, and baths are available on the island. If you love island hopping, Apuao is highly recommended because it is just one of the Mercedes group of islands. You can also visit Malasugui Sandbar (drone shot above), Canimog Lighthouse, and Caringo Island.

Inside the Walls of Intramuros

You might be thinking about the location where this photo was taken; I have no money to travel abroad, so it's not from ancient Greece or Rome. It is one of the tourist spots and must must-visit attraction in Manila. Okay, it is from Intramuros or the "Walled City," one of the sites that has significance in Philippine history. I was captivated by the Intramuros Open House in Celebration of World Tourism Day. Entrance fees are free on three of the must-visit spots inside the walled city; these are Fort Santiago, Baluarte de San Diego, and Casa Manila. Not only that, there are free bicycle tours at Plaza Roma, and a picnic with performance grounds, food, and art at Baluarte de San Diego.

Vietnam: My Camera Captured 4 Stunning Tourist Spots

As what I have mentioned in my Aliwan Festival 2017 posts, Thes, ang maganda kong pinsan (medyo napilitan ako sa statement na yan), borrowed my DSLR for her international tour. In return, I'll publish some of her photographs so we can have a glimpse of Vietnam and its tourist spots and destinations. By the way, every time I hear this country, I always think of the Vietnam War and Leah Salonga performing Miss Saigon. Let's see and widen our minds with the photos captured at Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon.

Balitok Ti Alicia, Isabela

Balitok in Ilocano means gold, from which the festival Balitok ti Alicia drew inspiration as they gratefully celebrate the golden era of the town of Alicia, Isabela. Being one of the prime palay producers of the province, this festival honors rice as the golden grain that helped this humble town, formerly called Angadanan Viejo, to become a prominent business hub in Central Isabela. It shows how its hardworking people put their heart into the tedious, muscle-numbing work in the fields for the golden grains to be served on the tables for the whole year. Info from Aliwan Fiesta Website

Niyogyugan Festival, Quezon Province

From the words “niyog” and ”yugyog,” the Niyogyugan Festival combines all the colorful fiestas of Quezon Province like the “Pahiyas” of Lucban, “Arana’t Baluarte” of Gumaca, “Tagultol” of Atimonan, “Maubanog” of Mauban, and others. A province-wide celebration that celebrates the “Tree of Life,” Niyogyugan pays tribute to the coconut industry’s glorious past, which bore fruit in the form of lambanog distilleries, oil millers, heritage houses, and vast resort plantations. This amazing festival was created to move, shake, and bring back the vigor and dynamism of the industry and to promote the products, places, talent, and creativity of Quezonians. Info from Aliwan Fiesta Website.