A trusted Philippine travel blog with detailed guides, hidden gems, and cultural stories from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao’s 82 provinces.
The Paco Park, originally known as the Cementerio General de Dilao, is a recreational garden area and served as Manila's municipal cemetery during the Spanish colonial period. This structure was built in the 18th century and was completed in 1822. Its original design was to be a municipal cemetery for the influential and aristocratic Spanish families living in Manila and Intramuros, but it also served as a peaceful dwelling place for those victims of the cholera epidemic.
The Fort Santiago was my first destination as part of Celebrating the World Tourism Day 2017 in Intramuros. Walking beside this gigantic wall is remarkable as it embodies the significance of the past to the present. Just by reading the writings placed by the management in different corners, you can foresee what has transpired inside this wall centuries ago. Also, we can distinguish who the prominent people imprisoned and tortured here, like Jose Rizal. The photos below will give you more excitement.
The San Sebastian Church or Basilica Minore de San Sebastian is a Minor Basilica in the City of Manila. The very first structure of this church is situated on land donated by Don Bernardino Castillo, a devotee of Saint Sebastian, in 1621. It was made up of wood, but was burned in 1651. So it was then replaced by a structure made of bricks, but it was destroyed again by fire and earthquakes.
The Manila Cathedral, or the Manila Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica, is situated in the district of Intramuros, Manila. Originally, this church was the "Church of Manila," which was established and under the management of the Diocese of Mexico in 1571, but later in 1579, it became a separate diocese.
San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila, is the oldest stone church in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases remarkable Baroque architecture. Built in 1607, it has withstood wars, earthquakes, and the test of time, making it a living testament to the country’s colonial past and deep Catholic faith. Its intricate facade, grand interiors, and historical significance continue to draw pilgrims, tourists, and history enthusiasts from around the world.
The Cape Bojeador Lighthouse is also known as the Burgos Lighthouse, a 66-foot-tall octagonal stone tower on Vigia de Nagpartian Hill with an overlooking scene of the cape. It is one of the historical landmarks and a cultural heritage erected during the Spanish era in the Philippines. This lighthouse was first designed by Magin Pers and Pers in 1887 and finished by the Lighthouse Service under Guillermo Brockman.
The Sto. Nino Cold Spring is located in Catarman and is one of Camiguin’s top tourist destinations. By its name, you can easily expect fresh and cold spring water. I had no plans to get wet, especially with the cold temperature of the water, but because of its super-duper clear water, I dipped into the water and experienced how great this cold spring is. I was also stunned by the bottom of the pool, there is no silt because it is made of concrete.
The Bura Soda Water Park is located in Catarman, Camiguin. It has a swimming pool with crystal-clear water with a taste of soda, and that's the reason why they call it that way. According to the caretaker, the water coming out of this spring tastes like a soda, and it is safe to drink. The atmosphere in the area is relaxing because it is surrounded by hardwood trees and flowers. The air is absolutely clean and refreshing. Cottages are available for rent and you can order food from the pool attendant.
The old Guiob Church is located in Camiguin. It was damaged by the volcanic eruption that happened centuries ago, damaging the other structures on the island. What's unique about this structure is the meter-wide walls and huge columns that are made of coral stones. Today, it's covered with mosses and plants.
