Thrill Pagsanjan Falls

In recent years Pagsanjan has become the premier tourist spot of the Philippines. More than 500 tourists from all parts of the world daily visit the town, from Monday through Sunday. These tourists are ferried to the enchanting Pagsanjan falls in native bancas paddled by expert boatmen. They all experience a thrilling memory of adventure, seldom surpassed in their lifetime. As Dr. Marguerite J. Fisher, American lady professor and globe-trotter, said: "I just love Pagsanjan, with its picturesque waterfalls and rapids. I've been there thrice and I've shot the rapids a number of times."

The province of Laguna boasts of seven rivers and seven lakes, as well as a plentitude of streams, waterfalls,springs, and rivulets. But of all these, nothing is more famous and exciting than Pagsanjan Falls.

Speak of Pagsanjan Falls and immediately shooting the rapids comes to mind. Visitors flock to this small town in the heart of Laguna for the thrilling canoe ride through the 14 rapids of the Bombongan River.

The five-kilometer journey winds through foliage, steep canyons, and deep gorges dotted by cascading waters. The ride culminates at the Pagsanjan Falls. Here, those who don't mind getting drenched can ride the raft which goes right through the thundering waterfalls

Upon their return, those who braved the ride can stroll around the orchidarium or take an afternoon tour to the many points of interest nearby: man-made Lake Caliraya, the Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery, the embroideries of Lumban town, the woodcarvers of Paete, the papier mache craftsmen of Pakil, the shoemakers of Liliw. A great many towns also boast of lovely historic churches.

Magnificent Dakak

Zamboanga's major places of interest are Dipolog and Dapitan cities. In Dipolog which is about 2 hours by air from Manila, you will enjoy the beauty of Dakak where you can discover coral reefs while you scuba dive in incredible clear waters.

It also boasts of fine white sand and surrounded by exotic flowers and coconut palms. You can also head inland and go trekking at Linabo Peak. Dapitan is a historical and old Spanish town where most of the interesting sites are associated with the Philippines' national hero, Jose Rizal.

Exotic Zamboanga is the melting pot of the south. Five tribal groups may be found in and around Zamboanga. These are: the Badjao, Subanon, Sama, Tausug, and Yakan.

Though the Muslim influence is seen in the architecture, Zamboanga's population is actually 80% Christian with the remaining 20% mostly Muslim

The more popular attractions in the province are: Fort del Pilar; Pasonanca Park with its botanical garden, Rio Hondo and Taluksangay, both villages where members of the Samal Tribe live in their huts on stilts. For shopping, visitors must go to Lantaka Hotel . The nearby sea becomes afloat with Muslim boats with colorful sails called vintas , filled with handicrafts such as mats, brassware, and handwoven native cloths. The Sta. Cruz Island, a 25-minute boat-ride away from the city is unique because of its pink coral beach while Samal Island is best for swimming and snorkeling.

Beautiful Sugbu...

Cebu is famous for the beauty of its nature and its enterprising people. It's a paradise for the beach lover, the diver and the golfer.

Many people ask what makes Cebu so attractive. For one it's the people: even before the Spaniards arrived, Cebu, located in the center of the Philippines and having a deep-sea harbor, has always been a trading place. Until now Cebu 's people are especially friendly and open minded towards foreigners and visitors. The early exposure to foreign cultures lead naturally to a mixture of blood, making its people particularly handsome and beautiful. Cebu City is the center of business and nightlife. You find accommodations from basic to luxurious, complete sports facilities, cuisines from native to exotic and a vibrant nightlife. Giant shopping malls and traditional Asian markets offer everything you want to buy. The island is blessed with year-round pleasant, tropical weather. Pristine beaches, some just a 20-minute drive away from the metropolis, are part of Cebu 's appeal. Hop in an aircon car and within a couple of hours you reach fantastic dive spots, belonging to the best the Philippines have to offer. Also Golfers and Adventure Sport enthusiasts find everything they are longing for: lush fairways or jungle-covered canyons in the mountains. It's the combination of city life and untouched nature, of friendly people and successful commerce what makes Cebu the most popular tourist and business destination in the Philippines .

The Baguio - City of Pines

Situated amid pine-covered hills, with its cool climate, it is the Philippines' summer capital. This city lies within Benguet Province and is about 45 minutes flight from Manila or six (6 hours) by land. It is a major tourist destination and the nearest thing to a mountain retreat this tropical, humid country possesses. The city market is one of the country's best, overflowing with handicrafts, strawberries and vegetables from the surrounding highlands.

BAGUIO - Situated amid pine-covered hills, with its cool climate, it is the Philippines' summer capital. This city lies within Benguet Province and is about 45 minutes flight from Manila or six (6 hours) by land. It is a major tourist destination and the nearest thing to a mountain retreat this tropical, humid country possesses. The city market is one of the country's best, overflowing with handicrafts, strawberries and vegetables from the surrounding highlands.

Tourists can visit the many beautiful spots in Baguio City starting with Burnham Park and Wright Park. Baguio is also home to the Philippine Military Academy, the "West Point" of the country.

Shopping another favorite activity in Baguio. Mines View Park, St. Louis School, Narda’s Handicrafts, Baguio City Market and the Good Shepherd Convent sell souvenir items from wood carvings to fruit preserves.

Camp John Hay , formerly the rest and recreation station of U.S. military troops, maintains the best recreational facilities in Baguio. An 18-hole golf course, one of the most challenging in the country, is the Camp’s pride and joy.

Boracay - the place to be...

Vacation in the Philippines, the paradise island of Boracay is the place to go. The cool, clear, and shallow water is perfect for swimming and dipping. Friends can play any cook-up game on the water. The long shoreline covered with fine white sand is perfect for strolling barefooted or for getting that gorgeous tan. The weather is benevolent most times of the year, and the people are warm, friendly, and accommodating. The Filipino hospitality is definitely incomparable.

However, one should not expect five-star hotels in this island. If there are five-star hotels, the natural beauty of Boracay might be sacrificed for building such edifices. Still, there are many hotels in Boracay that offer luxurious accommodations. Combined with the famous white sand beach and the availability of equipment for various water sports, such hotel resorts provide the best vacation one can ever have. Here are some of the great hotel resorts in Boracay.

Malapascua Island (across the northernmost tip of Cebu Island )

It was on Christmas day when the Spaniards reached the island.According to townfolks, it was supposed to be a special day of celebration but unfortunately a storm hit the island and so came the name “Malapacual”, Malas sa Pasko, which means “Unfortunate Christmas” in English. Malapascua is sometimes referred to as “Logon”, the main community in the south. “Logon” got its name when the Japanese and Americans fought over the island during WWII. The island is 3 km. long and 1 km. wide, with a population of about 3,000. It has white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The west coast is ideal for swimming and snorkeling but one should be careful because of unpredictable weather. A walk or tour on the whole island can be done within half a day.

Kawasan Falls - Cebu

Kawasan Falls is a popular getaway destination in the southern part of Cebu. When you get to Badian Town, you'll have to walk 15 to 30 minutes or less along a very rocky and narrow path. But even though you might stumble a bit, just take it easy and enjoy the trek going up. There's a beautiful river and all different kinds of tropical plants. It's not everyday you'll have a beautiful view like this. You'll have to cross 3 small bridges before reaching the falls. Try to stop at this moment and look up stream Your camera can't wait to take some shots of the background and give you a forever lasting picture of what paradise is.

Kawasan has three waterfalls. The first one is the largest and is usually the most crowded. You can bring some food. But If you want to just relax you don't have to bring in food since it's available from the resort's restaurants. Cottage and tables are also available for rent.

You should rent a bamboo raft to take you around the lake, or for a refreshing "waterfall massage" under the falling water. You have the opportunity to climb up beside the waterfall and jump into the water, just like Tarzan!

While you and your friends are enjoying the cool and deep freshwater, the surroundings are relaxing and peaceful. Remember that this area is popular with locals as well as visitors!

Scuba Diving in Panglao Island, Bohol, the Philippines

Start the dive with the steep slope on the left shoulder going towards Cathedral in a northwest direction. At the end of the dive the slope becomes steeper in the north. This can also be dived in the other direction with the slope on your right shoulder going towards Black Forest to the south, depending on where the current is going.

A steep slope with the top at 10m, to the northeast of Balicasag. You see Panglao Island in the north direction.

A true aquarium with many gold band fusilier (Caesio Caerulaurea), big-mouth mackerel (Rastrelliger Kanagurta), midnight snapper (Macolor Macularis), red tooth triggerfish (Odonus Niger) and turtles. Between 10 and 15m are great corals like brown daisy coral (Tubastrerea Micrantha) and some big bucket sponges (Xestospongia Testudinaria).

Good for snorkeling

Dive Site: Divers Heaven

Location: Balicasag Island, Bohol, Philippines

Description: Steep slope dive