Archive for January, 2010

Inside Bohol

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Just two hours from Cebu is a small island filled with white sandy beaches, manmade forest, heartwarming people and a large python to look forward to.  Bohol is famous for its unique geological formation known as the Chocolate Hills, which are more than a thousand cone-shaped hills scattered in the central part of the island that assume the looks of chocolate puddings in the dry season.

Panglao,a small island in the Visayas which is virtually attached to the main island of Bohol, connected by two bridges of just 50 meters in length. All major beach resorts are located on Panglao with its pristine white beaches and clean seawater. Panglao is also the destination of choice for many divers.

Located centrally in the Philippine Archipelago, Bohol lies in the heart of the Visayas with the islands of Cebu, Leyte, Siquijor, and Negros as its neighbors. Bohol (with a land area of 4117 sq. km) is 700 km directly south of Manila, the national capital, and is about 79 km southeast of Cebu City.

What I love about this island is how you try to fit all your activities in one day. Its quite impossible because there are so many things to visit at Bohol. The Chocolate Hills which are very fascinating can’t be visited for just an hour, you need more time to appreciate it luscious colors.

First of all, one must reach the Philippines by plane, either through Manila or Cebu. From Manila, one can take a domestic flight, either direct to Tagbilaran (capital city of Bohol) with Philippine Airlines (PAL) or Cebu Pacific (CEB), or to Cebu City, again with PAL or Cebu Pacific. Please check their respective schedules, as there are frequent changes.

Aside from all this, you could also choose a whole dozen resorts to enjoy your stay at Bohol.Bohol is proud of its beautiful white sand beaches and many interesting dive spots.

 

The Busy Carbon Market

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If you have been around Cebu for quite a long time then it’s impossible for you not o know Carbon Market. It’s very famous for its cheap fruits, vegetables and RTW. One of my favorite cheap thrills can be found at Carbon Market. You can save a lot from your budget money if you buy at this Market. One of the very busy strips in the ‘blocks-wide’ Carbon Market is the Freedom Park. Usually on Valentines and Halloween people flock at the market to buy flowers for their loved ones.

The Carbon Market is Cebu City’s largest public market.

The Carbon Market is a lively and colorful place where you can see a huge variety of local fish, fruits, flowers, and sweets for sale, as well as handicraft items from Cebu and nearby islands (such as baskets from Bohol).The Market is a great place to find inexpensive souvenirs.

Carbon Market is similar to Divisoria in Manila; The Carbon is where a lot of produce on the island of Cebu changes hands. Located at the end of the Cebu railway line (yes, there used to be a railway), the area was used to store coal in the days when it powered steam engines that in turn generated power for the city. With all the huge mountains of coal stores, it became known as The Carbon. Visit this location but make sure to be very careful since its very crowded. Enjoy Cebu and its wonders.

 

The Island Garden City of Samal

Poolside, pearl Farm, Samal, by ed

Are you tired of looking at papers on your desk? Or maybe listening to your boss whine about the company’s problem? You start to imagine places where you can relax and unwind. You desire to be in a place where peace and tranquility can be felt? Its time to visit Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte Philippines. Among the many places I’ve wanted to visit is my mother’s hometown in Davao. around an hour in Davao, you will see the island Garden city of Samal.

One of the resorts I will surely recommend is rocky beach Resort. Samal Island has several beaches, but the most popular beaches flock with many tourists during peak season, which is around March to May. That’s why most people think Samal is not the perfect spot for romantic summer.

To avoid the overcrowded beach resorts, the role of Rocky Beach Resort comes into play. The name Rocky Beach was coined by the sons of the beach owner. When they first set foot at Rocky Beach many years ago, it had boulders of corals. As of now, Rocky Beach Resort isn’t that rocky as it used to be.

Island Garden City of Samal have numerous of wonderful and extraordinary resorts.Some of the resorts are Kaputain Resort, Cannibad ,Chemas , Camudmud, Costa Marina , Blue Waters , Mayumi, Isla Reta and Paradise Island

Getting to Know More About the Island Garden City of Samal - The Island Garden City of Samal is just minutes away from Davao, a city with a large economic base. With this strategic location, the Island Garden City of Samal also known as IGACOS has a lot of potential to grow as haven for.

 

Suroy Suroy Sa Sugbo

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In Cebu there is such a term as “Suroy Suroy Sa Sugbo“, which means to tour around Cebu. Suroy Suroy Sa Sugbo can either be completed going to the South or to the North. You will surely enjoy your day with fun filled adventure in store for you.

OR many years, tourists were only confined to what the bustling metropolitan Cebu can offer.

Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia changed that by taking tourism to the countryside with the SUROY-SUROY Sugbo packages, which expanded to four packages this year.

With the program, various towns and cities in the province opened their doors to both domestic and foreign tourists, showcasing the best their place has to offer.

The Northern Escapade which includes Bantayan island, the Enchanting Camotes tour of the four island towns, and the most sought after Southern Heritage Trail is now on its third year.

The latest addition to the packages is the first ever Urban Adventure held last September 16-17, highlighting the cities of Mandaue and Lapu-lapu and the town of Cordova where tourists were island-hopping.

The adventure doesn’t stop there. In the future more and more activities are to be done. What I like about this committee is how to faithfully allow people to see to wonders and the rich cultures of my hometown. Visit Cebu and avail their packages with a group of friends or your family.

 

Davao: Home of The Durian

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Davao. Home of the Durian, and the birthplace of my mother. I am very intrigued with the culture, beliefs and their highlights. According to my mom she is fascinated by how discipline the people is in Davao. She also boast about their richness in fruits and peaceful scenery.

Davao, comparing sizes by land area, is the largest city in the Philippines and in the island of Mindanao. It has one of the most progressive economies in the country with its seaport and international airport being very active cargo hubs in the region. In the whole southern Philippines, Davao City remains as a strong business and investment center.

Some of the historic sites in Davao City include the Battle Memorial, a historical marker memorializing the longest battle between the Japanese and Filipino-American forces during World War II. Another place to visit is the Davao Historical Society Museum, which features its historic collections, located in Magsaysay Park. The Uyanguren Landing Site marks the area where the Spanish conqueror, which name it bears, first landed. He later became Davao’s first governor.

But if you also want panoramic views and a relaxing place at the beach, the n I recommend visiting the pearl Farm. Pearl Farm Beach Resort is located at Samal, an island off the coast of Davao City. Pearl Farm is a 45-minute boat ride from Davao City Wharf. The resort was once a pearl farm where thousands of white-lipped oysters were imported from Sulu and were cultivated for white, pink and gold pearls.

Pear Farm’s unique cottages were patterned from the traditional houses of the Samal Tribe in Sulu. The resort offers five different choices of cottages/villas; Balay House ($115), Samal House ($210), Mandaya House ($240), Samal Suite ($350) and Sunset Suite ($350).

So much for that, Davao also happens to be one of the fastest growing cities in the country. Visit Davao and be entangled with its delicious durian.

 

Walk to The Sand Bar

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Dolphin watching could be really fun since it’s not every day you get to see them. At Bais, Negros there are season’s wherein dolphins are always around.

Negros is located in the southern Visayan Region of the Philippines and host the most beautiful beaches, tourism, and a wonderful place to visit. A natural and cultural splendor in the heart of the Philippine Archipelago.Dive into a world of colorful corals and fantastic fish. Explore mysterious caves. Conquer mountain peaks. Enjoy sight of playful dolphins and whales. Dive, Explore and Enjoy only in the One Province, Philippines.

Negros Occidental is also rich in its sugar canes. One of the places that really attracts me at Bais City aside from the dolphins is the Manjuyod White Sand BAr.

North of Dumaguete you can find the remarkable Bais/Manjuyod Sandbar . There you can appear to walk on water. Emerging like a white oasis in the midst of blue, this strip of land provides a great spot for recreation.

But during high tide it disappears. If you plan to prolong your fun, you can stay overnight in one of several cottages on stilts that are found nearby. You can easily reach the area by boat.

The Manjuyod Sand Bar is an estimated 600 hectare total strip area, including the submerged portions. Also known as the Sumapao Shoal, it is a certified tourist attraction because of its unique characteristic. It has been said that among the tourist spots in the vicinity, this one has the most potential.

Enjoy a relaxing walk towards the sand bar and see its best view from the top!

 

Relax At ParLane Cebu

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In a crowded and busy streets of Cebu City is a small stop to relax you with thier cozy ambiance and heartwarming people. Parklane Hotel Cebu in Cebu sits pretty amongst the surrounding hills. The exciting and energetic lifestyle simply awaits you. Much to the convenient location of Parklane Hotel Cebu in Cebu, you can avail key means of transport with no trouble at all. A whole lot of tourist attractions are also within reach from the hotel by virtue of the superb location of Parklane Hotel Cebu in Cebu.he Parklane is located across Ayala Center Cebu and Cebu Business Park, it is the city’s newest star with its perfect location, modern facilities and that legendary Cebuano hospitality. It is 20 minutes away from Cebu-Mactan International

There are many accommodations to choose from at Parklane. If you like a dip in the pool with relaxing 360 view of Ayala, then you will enjoy the benefits of this Hotel.

For Dining, you can choose some of their specially chosen restaurants to satisfy your apetitie. One of which is Manuel’s Restaurant.  Enjoy elegant surroundings and spectacular cuisine when you dine at Manuel’s Restaurant.  Discover our sensory dining experience while you indulge your palate with international cuisine, featuring a wide range of culinary styles and regional specialties.

Enjoy this beautiful hotel wherein you can enjoy family time and some time with your special someone.

 

The ParkMall At Cebu

about_us_pic1Malls are slowly booming arund Cebu and one of my favorites is Park Mall since it faces the sea. It has a very humid but windy atmosphere which is very relaxing. Park Mall like its name has a huge space for parking area. There are also certain events held at Park Mall. One entertainment is the waterball challenge. Childrends and even adults are sealed in a plastic ball to roll around the pool. Its very entertaining and cost only P75.00.

Park Mall is located at Ouano Avenue, Mandaue Reclamation Area, Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines(across Cebu International Convention Center – CICC). Uniting Cebuano’s love for culture, search for pleasure and need for leisure comes to Parkmall, the newest cosmo hub in Mandaue, home to the finest of al fresco dining and the most refreshing concept shops to ever grace the Queen City of the South.

Experience something new and exciting everyday at Parkmall.There are so many restuarant to enyoy at Parkmall. There is also a field where families can just lie around the grass to enjoy the view and the wind. Visit Parkmall and enjoy this sights.

 

The Solemn Procession At Cebu

taken during the procession

taken during the procession

Two days ago I witnessed again the devoted Catholics and devotees of Sto. Nino. Last week was a compilation of rainy days and excitement to the upcoming Sinulog. Before starting the Mardi Gra a solemn procession is done during the eve of Sinulog. The Sinulog Mardi Gra happens on the 3rd Sunday of January every year. Despite the gloomy weather and rainy procession, an estimated of 2.5 million attended the procession. The event was heart warming and it gave everybody hopes on the infant for more blessings.

Thousands of devotees carrying Sto. Niño images in various shapes and sizes attended the solemn procession that preceded the grand parade during Cebu’s celebration of the Sinulog Festival last January 16 and 17.

The two events are among the three highlights of the month-long Sinulog celebration in Cebu City in January. One other is the fluvial procession, also held on Saturday but at dawn.

Thousands joined the Sinulog solemn procession on January 17at the sidelines, watching devotees recite prayers as they paraded in downtown Cebu City.

Along the stretch of the procession route were altars displaying replicas of the Sto. Niño.

On the fiesta of Sinulog, colorful banners, floats and costumes were presented during the Mardi Gra to show our gratitude to the infant saint. Yesterday you will see the beauty of the dances and offerings made by the Cebuano’s to our beloved Sto. Nino.

 

San Remigio:The Longest Coastline In Cebu

untitledAt the Northern part of Cebu is a town filled heart warming people and vast area of swimming ground. San Remegio is ready for you with white beaches and palm resorts, coral gardens and tropical fishes.

Home to 44,028 peace-loving people, the municipality of San Remigio in the island of Cebu is famous for its unspoiled beaches, gentle people and peaceful environs.

History books traced the beginnings of San Remigio’s modern historical account way back in the latter part of the 17th century. In those days, San Remigio was then known as “Kanghagas”

The entire province is ringed with beautiful beaches and enticing islets. Find yourself in San Remigio, where you will catch a glimpse of the longest coastline in the entire province of Cebu, and experience the unparalleled hospitality of the Cebuano.

In this small town is a relaxing resort owned by a Filipino family named San Remegio Beach Club. It is filled with panoramic views and endless options of sea escapes. The resort also offers different packages for the families to enjoy during their stay.

The pool is but one of the resort’s many attractions. The resort also offers kiddies area where you can assure the safety of your children. During parties there is also the sea pool party area. Wide and with panoramic views of the sea, this is where great feasting and partying happens.

Enjoy a relaxing day at this resort and see more solemn places to visit upon your stay.