Palawan
Abundant with flora and fauna, Palawan is often referred to as the
Philippines' last frontier, its untouched beauty drawing thousands
of foreign and local visitors yearly. But despite the throngs armed
with Lonely Planet guide books and copies of Alex Garlands' the beach-
all eager to get a slice of paradise - Palawan, especially its capital,
Puerto Princesa, has managed to maintain much of its original splendor.
Puerto Princesa , which means "princess of ports", is located on the
eastern coast of Palawan, embraced by Honda Bay. It is known as the
country's cleanest city; its mayor and its town folks working together
to preserve the beauty of their city.
Puerto Princesa has received nearly 30 national and international awards
and recognitions for being an exceptionally clean and environmentally
thriving city. The United Nations has even recognized its former mayor-
Edward Hagedorn as the first Filipino political leader to make environmental
protection the centerpiece of his administration.
One Puerto Princesa's attractions is the Subterranean River National Park.
This underground river is the only national park in the Philippines with
a dense tropical forest cover within the boundaries of the city, and is
said to be the most accessible area in the Philippines for wildlife viewing.
Tour guides lead visitors through the long, pitch-black underground cave,
using flash lights to point out the many unique rock formations.
Palawan Underground river is now included in modern days 7 wonders of the
world.
No.1 Best Island in the World in 27th Readers Choice Award by a U.S. travel
Magazine for its beautiful beaches(Coron), dive spots(Tubataha), great foods,
outstanding accommodations and the amazing Palawan underground river.
Cebu
Cebu's first, well known European tourist was the Portuguese captain,
Ferdinand Magellan, who completed his epic journey of circumnavigating
the world in 1521 by landing here. Now, it is one of the Philippines
most popular destination for both foreign and local tourists as Cebu
offers historical landmarks, sun, beaches, good resorts, shopping,fantastic
nightlife(including casinos), and a chance to mix with friendly locals who
love to sing.
Good buys here are locally-made furniture and home accessories.
The "must visit" attraction here, especially if you are a catholic, is the
Santo Nino Church in honor of the infant Jesus and the marvelous Plantation
Bay Resort for people who love resorts. if you wish to explore further,
from Cebu you can take fast crafts ferries to other interesting spots in
neighboring Bohol, Dumaguete and Leyte.
Bohol
Like Cebu, Bohol has a deep christian history for it is here that Spanish
missionaries celebrated the first Catholic mass. Bohol is garnering accolades
from winning "Best Philippine Destination" in 2003 and being awarded the
International Organization Standard (ISO) for ecology and environment. Not
bosting of an active nightlife like Cebu, Bohol however, offers more nature
tripping-from diving to whale and dolphin watching to a river cruise where
you can observe the tarsier, a small mammal that served as the inspiration
for the movie character, E.T., because of its large head and its big, haunting
eyes.
For travelers who love comfort and luxury, Bohol, now offers a good number of
high-end, tastefully designed resorts as well as very affordable, simple resorts.
Not at all full with hordes of tourists, Bohol, offers so much at a fraction of
price compared to others in the world.
Davao
Davao City the largest city in the country (and according to stats, the world, at
2,443 suare kilometers or 36,916 hectares) that serves home to more than a
million folks who live and breathe clean air, thanks to its strictly followed
anti-smoking ordinance. Let's not forget that it's the the only highly urbanized
city with least taffic imaginable. Davao is also a place blessed with abundant
food, uncontaminated air, and the sweetest tasting water.
Here'a tip. Don't stay inside your hotel room. Take a walk outside Davao's spic
and span environment and learn why it has been multi-awarded with accolades in the
highly urbanized category such as Kalakbay Award's Destination of the year (1997),
Asiaweek 40 Best Cities In Asia (1996-1999), Most competitive Metro City in the
Philippines (2001-2005), Most Peaceful City in East and Southeast Asia(1998-2005),
The Cleanest and Greenest City in the Philippines (1999-2005), Most Outstanding
Water Utility in Asia(1996-1998), and the list goes on. Best time to visit Davao?
Anytime. But when you're looking fo some cultural action, try August during the
Kadayawan festivities where you can participate in its well-applauded street
dancing revelry.
Davao is also home to country's tallest peak - Mount Apo.
