Boracay may be one of the top tourist destination the Philippines, however...The Puka Beach in Brgy. Yapak is one of the most unspoilt areas in Boracay. Relatively untouched by modern civilization, this 800m beach remains a favorite spot for travelers and tourist who want to escape the white beach crowd and seek pure relaxation and tranquility. There are no commercial establishments there except for the small stores owned by locals, selling Puka necklaces, anklets and souvenir items at a fair price. By the way, It is named Puka Beach because of the Puka shells that are found there.


Buy  fresh coconut water for a minimal fee and use the bamboo beds for FREE. The untainted waters of Puka is ideal for snorkeling, swimming and beach bumming. Getting here is fairly simple and cheap. You can reach Puka Beach either by trike or boat. From station 1 2 or 3, hire a trike from the main road for Php 50.00 to get you to Puka Beach or go island hopping by boat (Php 1,500- Php 1800) and inform the tour operator to include Puka Beach in your island hoping itinerary. 

The Cheapest way from Bacolod to Dumangas, Iloilo

If you have a little more time to spare, you could consider taking the cheap ferry from Bacolod to Dumangas,Iloilo . RORO Ferry crossing is slower, takes around 1.5 hours and the fare cost around Php 120.00. But if you're in a hurry, take the fast craft instead like Oceanjet and Weesam.

Getting to Bredco Port in Bacolod

You can easily reach Bredco port by metered taxis from downtown Bacolod.

Some key points to remember when using the ferry

• Dumangas is 30 min away from Iloilo City.
• If you're bringing a car with you, RORO is the only option.
• Fare is around Php 120 while the fast craft is at Php 260 / tourist class.

 
 

Bacolod Masskara Festival Guide

Masskara Festival is held annually every third weekend of October marking Bacolod City's Charter anniversary. The Masskara Festival of Bacolod City has been listed among the 29 most colorful festivals and celebrations around the world by www.placestoseeinyourlifetime.com. Every festival has its own story so let's take a trip back in time on how it all started.


History
 
 The festival first began in 1980 during the period of crisis.The province relied on sugar cane as its primary agricultural crop, and the price of sugar was at an all-time low due to the introduction of sugar substitutes like high fructose (corn syrup) in the United States. On April 22 on the same year, an inter-island vessel MV Don Juan collided with a tanker and sank in Tacloban City.An estimated 700 lives where lost during the tragedy including some of the prominent families in Bacolod.

In the midst of these tragic events, the local government and artist decided to hold the festival of smiles.The initial festival was therefore, a declaration by the people of the city that no matter how tough and bad the times were, Bacolod City is going to pull through, survive, and in the end, triumph.

Costumes and Mask

The vibrant costumes are made using a combination of materials from various sources. The quintessential part of the costume is the mask, made up of beads, plastic and other materials.


A Million Smiles

It's not just about the mask, but also the smiling and friendly locals of Bacolod.



Giants Roam the Streets

Giant puppets up to 18 feet high roam the streets created by fine art students and artist from different universities and companies in Bacolod.


Electric Masskara

One of festival highlights is the Electric Masskara at Lacson tourism strip.A parade of illuminated floats accompanied by music and dancing.Masskara dancers are lighted up using small led lights attach to their costumes.


Accommodation

• Lfisher Hotel
• O Hotel
• The Sugarland Hotel
• Bacolod Pension Plaza
• Tamera Plaza Inn
• East View Hotel
• Pearl Manor Hotel
• Java Pension House
• Royal Am Rei Hotel
• Gt Hotel
• Avenue Suites
• Vermilion Pension and Dormitel  

Most of the hotels except Vermilion Pension are situated just near Lacson tourism strip where all major happenings is held.  If your ran out of options of getting a place, you can book your stay at Vermilion Pension in Talisay which is few kilometers away from downtown Bacolod.

Highlighting the Ordinary in Tropical Paradise

 
The Fire Dancers



Boracay All Stars Dragon Boat Team




The Ati's of Boracay 

Ati's are undeniably the original native settlers of the Boracay since pre-colonial times who are in struggle of coping up with the furious phase of development that has overtaken the island. 


T-Shirt Paint Artist
  



The Sand Artist

They are talented young locals of Aklan who earn a living (donations)  by making three dimensional work of art. They use their hands to craft major shapes and sometimes a wood for poking out holes and slippers to flatten and smooth rounded corners. Not an easy task for a small donation.


Hat Seller

 

VIDEO: This is Camiguin Island in the Philippines

The nice climate and the steep hills, the widespread evergreen forest cover that is home to a wide range of different bird species, the amazing scenery and views, and the nice cool sea breeze blowing from the ocean, will absolutely make you feel relaxed when visiting Camiguin Island in the Philippines.
You can board a ferry to reach this amazing island or use a simple pump boat that are more common to access the other small islands within, such as the white island, where you can go for sunbathing or surfing in the mild waves. You can join the locals in game fishing and catch some fresh tuna and barracuda. The locals are friendly and hospitable and they can guide you around. To go around the island, you can use motorbikes or rent a minivan with driver to access various nice spots.
Some of the favourite tourist attractions in Camiguin Island include both cold and hot springs, the Katibawasan waterfalls with large amount of water plunging into the stream that flows around the island. You may also find various crops such as fruits and coconuts along the way to replenish your thirst.

Top 5 Biggest Shopping Malls Around Metro Manila

Malls have become part of every Filipino’s life. At an alarming pace, new malls are built and being developed. It will not be surprising if the country soon becomes Asia’s mall capital. Here is a list of the top 5 biggest shopping malls in Metro Manila.

1. Mall of Asia

This mall is the largest in the Philippines and the 7th biggest in the world. This mall also called MOA is situated by the Manila Bay and has an outdoor walkway which is perfect for viewing sunsets and pyrotechnic displays. In this mall there are about 600 shops apart from the SM Foodcourt, Hypermart and Department Store. The Mall of Asia can also boast of the first IMAX theater in the country and here you will get a taste of fantastic 3D film viewing. There is also a Director’s Club meant for small-group viewing, the CenterStage Cinema and a Premiere Cinema. These are used for theatrical performances and live music concerts which give a complete viewing experience to the customers. There is also the first Olympic–sized ice skating rink in the mall. MOA is the top mall in the Philippines because of the complete package that if offers – leisure, entertainment, shopping and viewing.

2. Mega Mall

Mega Mall is situated in the Ortigas Center, at the part encompassed by Mandaluyong city. This mall provides a great entertainment to the shoppers with its karaoke bars and huge arcade. It has 12 movie houses where you will definitely find something worth watching. The mall can boast of 5 floors and 2 wings of shops, boutiques and stalls which is surely a shoppers’ paradise. On its top floor is the Megatrade Hall. If you get tired of shopping, then you can always enter the ice skating rink and relax. This mall has a place for everybody, young or old. The Mega Mall can compete with the Mall of Asia in terms of patronship, though the MOA is larger in area.

3. Glorietta

This mall is located in the swanky part of Manila called Makati. In this mall, there is something for everyone. There are fancy restaurants, cinemas for movie-buffs, a couple of arcades and even a gym for the health conscious. There is an open circular atrium at the center of the mall which is a venue of exhibits, fashion shows, expos and concerts. Remember to hold on to your wallets if you plan to shop in this mall because you are sure to spend a lot of time here.

4. Greenbelt

This mall is located at the Ayala Center in Makati. It is more expensive as compared to other malls. Greenbelt is comprised of four different malls. Greenbelt 1 contains stores, cinemas, restaurants and the Onstage theater. Greenbelt 2 is famous for fantastic dining restaurants which serve delicious Asian and European dishes. Greenbelt 3 can boast of restaurants and boutique shops and most importantly, great cinemas. Also one can get an incredible view of the Makati skyline from here. Greenbelt 4 is a place for those with costly tastes. Western tourists and foreign business executives are sighted here frequently because the mall is in the heart of Manila’s financial center.

5. Trinoma

Trinoma or the Triangle North of Manila is located in the Quezon City neighborhood of Manila. It is a huge shopping complex and is anchored by the Landmark department store where the prices are lower than other malls and also the selection range is higher. Trinoma was opened to the public in 2007, and is among the top places to visit in Metro Manila. The mall can take pride of fabulous architecture: a reverse waterfall, multi-layered terraces and a glowing façade which changes color. It also houses one of the best cinema halls in the country.

The Story Behind The Name Of Surigao Del Sur’s Enchanted River

About 30 minutes from the town of Hinatuan in Barangay Cambatong lays the Hinatuan River which has become one of the most popular tourist attraction sites in Philippines. This river is also known as the Enchanted River and was only discovered recent years. None knows where the water comes from and flows into the Philippine Sea. Where does the water come from? Is it from a spring? Or does it come from the sea? This remains a mystery. The river has crystal-clear waters, such that you can see the riverbed even at the deepest part. If you look at the photos of the river you would think that they have been photoshopped but indeed this river is real. Hinatuan is a sleepy town in Surigao Del Sur in Mindanao and has gained a lot of fame because of the enchanted river.
One of the most unique features of the enchanted river is its unfathomable depth. This is why many tourist swim in the shallow part of the enchanted river area with water’s shade range from aquamarine to blue. The dark blue color in the river simply means the water is very deep. The enchanted river has the most magical moment; at exactly 12 noon the caretaker rings the bell requesting everyone to get out from the water as is “feeding time”. The “hymn of Hinatuan” is played and a massive school of fish pops out from nowhere. The fishes gather near the mouth of the river as the caretaker feeds them some leftovers of shrimp, rice, and other food scraps.
The fishes’ silvery scales look spectacular as they’re exposed to light gleaming with radiance as they swirl around trying to beat each other to the food. When feeding time is over the fishes disappear or at least become more inconspicuous.
Tourists visiting this enchanted river usually swim in specific areas as there are creepy stories where people drown and never floating back. It is believed that probably the spirits took them. The locals here believe that these same spirits are entirely responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and pristine color of the river. Despite these supernatural and unexplainable mysteries that surround the enchanted river, tourists are satisfied with the spectacular beauty upon seeing the place. It is indeed captivating and mesmerizing.
The area has cottages, picnic tables, tent and chairs all available for picnic for all the tourists visiting. The stalls here offer a wide array of drinks and delicious food which are fresh including seafood. There are lifeguards who are always on duty and visible. Smoking is not allowed within the Enchanted River premises. The facility is usually closed at 5:00 p.m. No one is allowed to swim at night or go near the river. According to the legends, this is the time for the people not in this world to use it or some spirits are watching over the river. Indeed, it is enchanted.
After a visit to the Enchanted River, one is left speechless and breathless from seeing this majestic river.
There are also other enchanting places in the Philippines. Best example to this is the mystical island of Siquijor, which is said to be a place full of magic and mysteries.

Beautiful Places That Will Give You a Reason to Travel Around Philippines

Philippines is located in the eastern part of Asia, at the extreme edge. It also hosts over 7,000 islands, and in addition, there are many beaches in the area that will amuse you. Here are the top beautiful places that will inspire you to travel around Philippines.

• Banaue Rice Terraces

This is a place that you just cannot miss on your trip to the Philippines. It is surrounded by terraces that were carved into the mountains of Ifugao in the Philippines around 2000 years ago by the ancestors of the indigenous people.

• Catanduanes

It has a serene environment with traditional houses. Life in the rural village is unhurried and simple. During peak season, August to September surfers from all over will converge in Catanduanes for its waves’ perfect barrels. For more adventure, you can also visit the waterfall where you can dive freely into the deep waters.

• Camsur Watersport Complex

A watersports park designed for people who loves wakeskating, waterskiing, and wakeboarding. There are planes designed to ski in the water, whereby, you will be pulled by a boat as you slide through the board and toss in the air, the ski board style.

• Siargao

Hailed as the “Surfing Capital of The Philippines”. This tear-drop shaped island can also be enjoyed even if you are not a surfer. It has waterfalls, beautiful lagoons, sandbars, amazing coral reefs, white beaches, a huge mangrove forest, caves, stunning rock formations, and so much more.

• Sohoton Lagoon

If you are in Siargao Island and want to relax and stay away from the crowd for a bit, Sohoton Lagoon will be the best place to visit. If you explore the area during low tide, a spectacular rock formation inside Sohoton Cove will give you a marvelous surprise. If you are afraid of heights, don’t enter into the cave because the only exit is to jump into the water which is about 3 stories high. You can also enjoy the canoes, which you will ride personally or be taken by a local.

• Naked Island

In this island, you get to enjoy the cool sun and the free environment. This gets funnier as the ladies take off their bras, while the guys take off their shorts. Don’t worry, wearing nothing is not required. It definitely is optional.

• Donsol

At Donsol, you get to enjoy freediving with the friendly Whale Sharks, go sighting with Manta Rays, firefly watching by the river, and so much more.

• Malapascua

This is also one of the coolest places to visit in the Philippines. What makes it more interesting is that you get to enjoy a private beach, which lets you be free and loosen up as much as you would wish. If you love diving, you can also enjoy diving through the blue waters of Malapascua Island and see some sharks, macro, mantas, wrecks, and a lot more.

• Boracay

Boracay was hailed as the “World’s Best Island Getaway” by Travel + Leisure magazine. This island has world class fine white sand beaches where tourists could from sunrise to sundown. Water activities are also available in Boracay like, kite surfing, banana boat ride, luxury sailing, yachting, and so much more.

• Aerial’s Point

This place is specifically known for its diving experience. They have jumps from 5 feet, 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, 30 feet, 40 feet, 50 feet, 60 feet, 70 feet, to the most extreme one – the 80 feet jump! For those who have fear of heights, you can simply enjoy Aerial’s Point incredible snorkelling area. There is also buffet and drinks all day, hangout spots, and trails.

• Underground River

One of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River or Underground River is said to be the longest traversable river in the world. You will enjoy the beautiful formation of the rocks in the cave as you row along.

• El Nido

This place has been enclosed by beautiful islands and you will also enjoy diving in the crystal clear water. The beaches are fantastic and you can definitely relax along the shore as long as you want.

• Coron

Diving is the best activity that you can do in Coron. This place is perfect for wreck divers, island hoppers, snorkellers and for those who just love to explore beautiful places and enjoy the sun.

The Philippines will welcome you with attractive beaches and other landmarks, the locals are also very welcoming that we are 100% sure that you will make many friends on your visit.

A Glimpse of the Colorful Underwater World of Balicasag Island in Bohol

Let this turtle tour guide and his/her two best friends take you to the colorful underwater world of Balicasag Island, Bohol. Watch the entire video, and we guarantee you will enjoy it as you encounter some really beautiful creatures such as an Orangutan Crab, Trumpetfish, Scribbled Filefish, Jackfish, Juvenile Boxfish, and Titan Triggerfish.
Here are some of the best comments on youtube:

 Great Vid, love the beat with the turtle, with such good vibe it feels like you’re flying not swimming! Subbed.
– Aquavidify

This is one of the best under water videos I have seen. Just stunning. Thank you. Looking forward to being back there in Bohol in less than 2 weeks.
– Kelvin Ham

I was in awe.. it feels like im watching it live.. thanks!! really nice…
– Khobarboi

Balicasag Island has a reputation of being one of the best dive sites of South East Asia and even in the world. This island is an absolute scoop and an ultimate destination for the aquatic adventurists. One can redefine the saga of adventure diving in Balicasag Bohol. Where the horizon meets the pep of your imagination and your romantic passion for the mother nature.

Things to Do and Places to See When in Manila

Manila is the capital of the Philippines. It is also one of the largest cities in the country. It is not your typical tourist destination like Boracay, Palawan, or Bohol. It is a totally different kind of adventure. This city is home to some of the most important historical and cultural landmarks in the Philippines. It is considered a global city and it has several educational and scientific institutions and sport facilities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions in this city. The best way to explore Manila is to interact with the locals and enjoy some of the things they do on a daily basis. Here are some of the things to do and see when in Manila.

Places to See

Intramuros

Sign up for a walking tour to explore Intramuros. This is a walled city that played an important role in the American and Spanish governments when they ruled the Philippines. A walk through the city gives you a great look into its culture and history.

Dynastic Museums

A visit to Manila is only complete once you visit the dynastic museums that include the Ayala Museum and the Yuchengco Museum. These museums features exhibits from some of the most powerful clans in the country.

Divisoria

This is the most popular market in the Philippines. Divisoria is renowned for its food stalls, shopping malls, midnight bazaars, wholesale and retail stores, and street markets that offer very low prices. This is a shopping paradise with a wide range of items to choose from including fabric, shoes, houseware, and clothing.

China Town in Binondo

This is the oldest Chinatown in the globe. Binondo was a popular stop for foreign traders and it was later handed over to Chinese Merchants. It features several restaurants that offer delicious, affordable meals. There are guided walking tours to help you explore the area properly.

Marikina Shoe Museum

This shoe museum showcases, former Philippines’ First Lady, Imelda Marcos’ shoes. The Marikina Shoe Museum is a located right in the heart of the city’s shoemaking district.

Manila Bay

A cruise along the Manila Bay gives you an opportunity to enjoy a great view of the sunset. You can enjoy this view while you have dinner. There are several yachts and cruise ships that offer this experience.

Luneta Park

This is an iconic park, also referred to as Rizal Park. Several public executions took place at Luneta Park during the Spanish reign. Some of the famous personalities who were executed at this park include Dr. Jose Rizal, a national hero, and 3 Filipino priests who are collectively referred to as Gomburza. It is also home to the Rizal Monument.

Things to Do

Try Some Real Exotic Filipino Food

Try some of the exotic Filipino foods such as isaw and balut during your Manila visit. These are some of the popular street foods. Mang Larry’s, located near the International Center inside UP Diliman Campus offers the best street food in the city.

Ride a Jeepney

The Philippines is the only country in the world that allows you to enjoy a jeepney ride. A jeepney is a common form of transportation in Manila. They are designed to accommodate about 16 passengers and it is an exciting part of the Manila experience. It will definitely be different from the train and bus experience you get in other cities.

Visit Old Churches

If you enjoy art, visit the old churches scattered across Manila. These churches have impressive ornaments, murals, and architecture. Some of the churches you can visit include Manila Cathedral, San Sebastian Church, Quiapo Church, San Agustin Church, and Baclaran Church. There are various artistic styles on display in these churches.

Ride the Tricycle

Tricycles are used as a form of public transportation in the city. There are more than 500,000 tricycles in Manila. They are designed to carry three passengers. Riding in a tricycle is an exciting experience that should be part of your itinerary when you visit this city. They are used to link commercial areas and residential areas. You can choose to take the ride on your own or get on a tricycle that has two other passengers.

Karaoke Bar

Filipinos enjoy singing and this is evident in the number of karaoke bars in Manila. Find some of the famous Karaoke bars in the city and join in the singing. It will be an opportunity for you to have fun and interact with Filipinos.

The White Beaches of Boracay Island

Labeled as one of the prime tourist destinations in the Philippines, Boracay Island is famed for its numerous beaches and coves that travelers would love to explore. Majority of these beaches gained fame for their fine white sands and attracted countless local tourists and those coming from other parts of the globe.
Among the famous beaches in Boracay are the following:

White Beach

This beach is perhaps the first beach that comes into mind upon hearing the name Boracay. Celebrated for its fine white sand, White Beach had been a mecca for travelers due to its immaculate shoreline and clear blue waters. The 4-kilometer beach is accented with palm trees and lined with establishments accommodating tourists’ needs. Common activities done at this site are skimboarding, snorkeling, banana boat rides, sailing and many more.

Puka Shell Beach

Gaining the second place when it comes to beach size, Puka Shell Beach is well-known for its reef areas that become its main attractions. Countless sea shells and coral amulets can be found along its shoreline. The beach named after Puka Shell is considered as among the finest beach across the globe according to experts. Common activities done are banca trips that enhance nature appreciation.

Diniwid Beach

Requiring a short walk from the white beach, Diniwid Beach proves to be a site worth visiting because of its offered view of the island. It has a huge platform rock displays a breathtaking view of the area. it is also well known for the exclusive resort property site near the sea cliff, where the main property is established.

Cagban Beach

Adventurous individuals find the Cagban Beach as the best site to visit. Cagban, which is translated as cave, is famed for stories about treasure chests still hidden in it and surrounding sites. Exploring this site is indeed a pleasurable experience for those who are into adventure and nature. Furthermore, the site is also slightly secluded from the White Beach, giving people peace and quiet on their tour.

Balinghai Beach

This secluded beach site is well-known for being a hideaway from the activity-filled White Beach. Surrounded by rocky sites, this hide away has the Baling-Hai resort as its main accommodation option for people looking for quiet sites to see in the place. The resort’s cottages are situated on the cliff just above the beach, offering a breathtaking view of the beach site. Furthermore, adventurous individuals can also have their share of activities in this beach through snorkeling, the famous activity done by its visitors.

Bulabog Beach

Living up to its name, Bulabog Beach is known to be alive during the first quarter of the year being the mecca of many windsurfers visiting the site. Both novice and professionals who are into the sport takes advantage of the wind and waves this site is known for, gaining it the title of being a windsurfer’s paradise. Apart from windsurfer, kiteboarders also hang out in this site to experience the same natural resources windsurfers are enjoying. After these joyous months, the beach transforms into a serene and deserted beach ideal for people looking forward to seeing its other side.

Ilig-Iligan Beach

Situated at Boracay’s east coast, this beach is well known for having numerous coves and caves. Rich in natural resources, nature trip lovers will certainly find their paradise in this beach site with its amazing jungle attraction where the famous fruit bats can be seen. Apart from seeing these gentle giants, tourists can explore its Bat Caves through a walking trip or bike ride offered by its local tour guides.

Punta Bunga Beach

Located near Balinghai Beach, this site is also famous for beautiful shells lining up its path. Although it’s quite a walk from the main White Beach, it offers views of the more modern and residential part of Boracay with the number of establishments accessible at the site. The hills bordering the beach area plus the blend of development attracts numerous tourists, giving birth to many residential areas that are currently offered for short-term renting.
Overall, Boracay beaches are not only limited to the White Beach that many visitors see yearly. It is composed of numerous beaches with their own profiles that appeal to every visitor’s tastes. Other than the beach, there are many other activities you can do in Boracay such as the night life, diving, snorkeling,  Check out more of Boracay Island where you can relax and experience its beauty.