Showing posts with label Philippines. Show all posts

Cebu island has been a preferred travel destination for locals and foreign travelers. The province is located at the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. Travelers from around the world would love to visit the magnificence of the different places of the island. If you want to enjoy a holiday in Cebu island, here are some of the things to do in southern part of Cebu that you should include in your list:

Whale Shark Watching, Snorkeling, and Scuba Diving in Cebu Island

How do you portray this special sensation to dive with an immense creature? Don't just put it into words; you simply need to feel it and see these swimming giants for yourself! Whale Sharks are delicate and their behavior towards scuba divers and swimmers are obedient and very friendly. Diving and snorkeling with the whale sharks is a unique encounter that you ought to do once in your life. If you want a hassle-free trip to Oslob, you can contact a Cebu rent a car operator. They’ll be able to provide the perfect transportation for you.

Visit Tumalog Falls

If you like to beat the tropical warmth yet need to try at something different as opposed to setting off to the beach, a standout among your best decisions is Tumalog falls in Oslob. Next to its overly chilly water, you will also appreciate the view of little umbrellas that course fine strands of fresh water. The area is just a short drive from the Oslob Whale Shark spot and the entrance fee is just PHP20 per person.

Try the Canyoneering Adventure in Cebu Island

To grasp adventure is the way to a thrilling life. Commonly, a new adventure is the thing that we have to keep us associated with our companions, all the more so to ourselves. If you want to have a preference for a genuine heart stopping adventure experience, canyoneering at the well known cliffs of Badian is the appropriate response. This extreme outdoor activity requires a lot of trekking, climbing, diving and swimming so as to effectively navigate a canyon. Much better to book the trip in advance with some tour operator in Cebu that offers available Cebu tour packages for hassle free experience.

Chill at Kawasan Falls

Cebu is prominent for its grand nature spots going from diving spots up to its perfect and crisp waterways. One of which is the great Kawasan Falls. It is one of the admirable attraction in Cebu which is known for its natural beauty with fresh, clean, and cold water falls.

Climb the Highest Mountain in Cebu Island- Osmeña Peak

Osmena Peak is one of the famous attraction for mountain climbers and tourists which offers a leisurely fresh air on a scenery of rough green hills. It is accessible to hikers and mountain climbers throughout the entire year however it is ideal to climb in the first half of the year since the rainy season is from June to October. The peak and mountain ranges become wet and tricky during rainy season. It takes around 2 hours travel from Cebu City proper to get to Osmena Peak. You can either reach the area using your very own vehicle, get a transport from Cebu South Bus Terminal, or rent a car.

Scuba Diving at Pescador Island

Pescador Island in Moalboal is viewed as a paradise for scuba divers because of its moist temperatures and hosts one of the most astounding marine biodiversity in the world. Pescador Island is the best spot for snorkeling and swimming as you can see here various sort of fishes, astounding coral reefs, and even dolphins. Because of very clear water, you would already be able to see the beautiful schools of fish swimming through the waters from your boat. One pride of Pescador Island would be the well known Sardine Ball. It is amazing to swim with a countless sardines, sea turtles, and view the underwater cave known as the Cathedral.

These are just some of the things you can do in Cebu Island. If you wish to explore more about the Philippines, please visit the best places to travel in the Philippines. And if you want to retire in the Philippines, get to know the pros and cons of retiring here.

The Philippines is in the list of the top 25 retirement destinations in the world. It’s based on several factors, such as benefits, discounts, healthcare, etc.

Retiring in the Philippines can offer you a lot of advantages. But it also comes with some risks. In this post, let’s talk about the pros and cons of living or retiring in this archipelagic country with more than 7,000 islands.

The Pros of Retiring in the Philippines

Extremely low cost of living

It’s known to many foreigners that the Philippines offers a lower cost of living, compared to the US and other parts of the world. Per month, you can comfortably live on around $800 to $1,200. The amount would include dining out or traveling within the country.

If your monthly benefit is, say, $900, it can already cover your basic living expenses.

The most interesting part is that you can get a household help at a very affordable rate. That said, even if you’re on a tight budget, you can still afford to hire someone to help you out with cleaning, cooking, and other household chores.

Beautiful Country

Our country offers a natural beauty. It’s easy to appreciate its surroundings anywhere you are in the Philippines.

We have several beaches, like Boracay in Aklan and El Nido in Palawan. All of those biggest draws can surely attract people, not just in Asia, but all over the world.

Incentives for Expats

The Philippines is very welcoming, especially to expats. We even have a government agency that’s designed to attract foreign retirees.

Some of these financial benefits would include huge discounts to individuals who are 60 years old or above, duty-free import that’s worth $7,000 and exemption from travel taxes.

Apart from those things, expats can also work and start a business here. Plus, you can stay here in the Philippines as long as you like because your retiree visa doesn't expire.

However, you’ll need to obtain permanent residency first. Then, once you’re approved, you can easily leave or return without having to reapply for residency.

Unfortunately, it’s not all pros the retiring in the Philippines. Here are some cons you must consider before you even decide to settle here.

The Cons of Retiring in the Philippines

Healthcare

It’s still a burden to some expats, especially in some areas of the country that don’t offer the same level of care in Manila.

This is one of the reasons some expats with chronic conditions don’t choose the Philippine as they need regular treatment that the country couldn't provide.

Lack of Infrastructure

Even though the Philippines is one of the fastest-growing countries in Asia, it still has a problem with infrastructure, which is a huge economic obstacle.

What it means to you is that you could experience power failures or outdated telecommunication system. You’ll also experience prolonged water shortages, especially during El Nino or summer season. It’s also common to see deteriorating bridges and roads.

Safety Issues

Ever since the campaign against drugs started by the current president, it had already resulted in thousands of deaths. However, if you’re not involved in illegal drug trade, there’s nothing to worry about.

The biggest safety issue isn't the campaign against drugs. It’s actually terrorism.

Terrorists are targeting markets, sporting events, and theaters. However, not all places in the Philippines are at risk. Only a few parts of the country are linked to terrorism and insurgency.

These places would include the Sulu Archipelago and southern Sulu area. Certain regions of the island of Mindanao may also pose a threat.

Conclusion

The Philippines is a beautiful country that attracts expats who want to retire in a better climate with beautiful scenery. Retiring in the Philippines may have its pros and cons, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons.

The Filipino people are very welcoming to foreigners. Plus, our country offers incentives to retirees.

Where are the best places to travel in the Philippines this summer?

Philippines isn’t only known as the home country of Manny Pacquiao but it’s also renowned as a country with beautiful, perfect beaches, mountains, lakes, etc.

Some travelers are still hesitant to travel in this country because of its “bad” image. But, for those who have travelled here, they know that the country is incomparable to the rest of the countries in Asia.

I’m not saying that because I’m from the Philippines. If you’re planning a trip to my country, here are some of the best places to travel and stay.

1. Best places to travel in the Philippines: Scream Park Manila

From the term suggests, it’s a theme park for those who wish to scream and be scared. If you want to experience how to be walking with zombies, you should try it out. You’ll feel like you’re in the set of “Walking Dead.” But you’re forbidden to touch them.

When you go there, you need to survive its three scare mazes, namely The White House, The Undead – Hungry for your Flesh and the Asylum of Terror.

2. Best places to travel in the Philippines: Sky Ranch Tagaytay

It’s made for adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers. Located in Tagaytay, Sky Ranch offers a lot of exciting attractions. That would include the Sky Eye, which is a towering giant that lets you see all the sights when you’re at the top of it.

Super Viking is also a great attraction. For kid-friendly attractions, they can see Mini Viking, Carousel, Wonder Flight, and so on.

3. Best places to travel in the Philippines: Sandbox Pampanga

After you’re done being excited and thrilled at Sky Ranch and you want more, you can go straight to Sandbox Pampanga. It’s the latest destination in the North and it features a lot of thrill rides and activities designed for outgoing people, like you.

One of its attractions is the Ride the Avatar One, which is a rollercoaster zipline. The up and down slopes and sharp turns make the ride more thrilling.

The Aerial Walk is another activity you shouldn’t miss at Sandbox. It’s an obstacle course that tests your physical strength.

4. Best places to travel in the Philippines: Costa Pacifica Baler

It’s in Baler. And we all know how beautiful this place is. Drive is long, about eight hours. But you’ll enjoy it scenic views.

Costa Pacifica Baler is located right at the shore, making it a perfect place for surfers (and surfer wannabe).

The resort is captivating. You’ll feel like you’re staying in Bali’s Potato Head Beach Club and Sydney’s Bondi Beach.

5. Best places to travel in the Philippines: City of Dreams Manila

After Baler, you can go back to Manila and stay at the City of Dreams. Located in Aseana Avenue, City of Dreams consists of three hotels, restaurants and more.

It has leisure and lifestyle shops, plus dining options.

To know more about the best places to travel in the Philippines, go here.

How to go to Potipot Island? Simple. Ask your employer for an incentive travel so you can go to Potipot Island.

However, if you don’t want to trouble your boss about it, you could save money and go solo in this island.

How to go to Potipot Island?

From outside Philippines, you must travel from your place to this country. Then, from the airport, you need to go a bus station and catch a trip to Iba, Zambales.

From Iba, you need to ride another bus to go to Sta. Cruz. This is where you will find a boat that can take you to the island. The travel may take around 10 minutes.

When you go to Potipot Island as your incentive travel, you must only ride the bus. Avoid hiring tricycles. The fare will be higher than the bus.

The fee for riding a boat will be approximately PHP400. To make it cheaper, wait for other people who are also traveling to Potipot Island.

Make sure that you tell the boat owners that you’re not a tourist but a backpacker. This is because they’ll charge you double if they think you’re a tourist traveling to this island.

Camping over staying in a resort

In order to make your travel to Potipot Island a lot cheaper, you should consider camping on the beach, instead of staying in a hotel or cottage. As long as you have a tent with you, you can set it up under the shade of trees.

Should you bring food and water?

Before you go to Potipot Island, make sure that you’ve collected enough drinking water and food while you stay here. There’s no food that you can buy in the island.

The drinking water can be obtained through a pump. But there’s a dull taste that you might not like. If you’re not used to it, then better bring bottles of drinking water.

Little Boracay

Potipot Island is known as the Little Boracay of the North. It’s a hidden gem with pristine blue water. Unlike Boracay Island, Potipot has no commercial establishments, which is great to avoid polluting the area. This is also one of the reasons traveling there is a lot cheaper than going to Boracay.

Day tour package

If you plan to go to Potipot Island with a guide, you can try purchasing a day tour package, which may cost around PHP1,000 per person. This package is usually offered by resort owners. The package will include the use of pool, tree house, etc. It also includes entrance fee, life vest, boat fare, and insurance.

Where to find day tour or overnight packages? You may visit MetroDeal.com. It offers cheap packages and great deals for those who wish to go to Potipot Island.

Security Bank Philippines is one of the banks in the Philippines that offers loans. However, because of the recent economic issues, the bank has become stricter in approving the applicant’s loan. If you’re planning to apply for a loan in this bank for your travel expenses, you need to present the bank managers with complete package of your finances to get approval.

Listed below are some tips that you can follow to help your personal loan be approved without problems.

1. Know what you want

It is important to understand your preferences before you apply for a personal loan in a bank. There are different types of loans offered by the Security Bank Philippines. But each of them has its own terms.

What you need to look for is a loan that suits your needs for your travel expenses and meets your budget. Applying for a personal loan in this bank can be easier than applying for an auto or mortgage loan.

However, you must make sure that you can pay off the money you want to borrow. And you must do it as fast as possible.

2. Contact the bank

As soon as you’ve found the type of loan package that you’re interested in, you should contact Security Bank Philippines. Its customer support will give you the requirements to become eligible for a loan. Although it’s okay to discuss this matter on the phone, it’s highly recommended that you make an appointment in person.

Keep in mind that this bank has different requirements than other banks. You must know them all upfront so you can be prepared.

3. Know your credit score

Applying for a personal loan for your travel expenses may require you to present your credit history. Or you may need to open an account from the Security Bank Philippines.

The bank will review your financial background. It’s highly likely that you’ll get approval if you have good credit rating with the bank.

Regardless of your credit history, you still need to consider your limitations. Security Bank Philippines will approve your loan if you they think that you are financially capable of making repayments. Thus, you must only apply for personal loans if you can afford to pay them back.

4. Avoid having high expectations

Financial experts said that it’s not a good idea to apply for a loan if you’re such in a hurry to travel. Keep in mind that the officers of Security Bank Philippines follow certain protocol before approving a loan. It may take a few days to weeks before you can get the money, i.e. if your application is approved.

Your main goal here is to apply for a loan that you can afford to repay. The officer might ask you how to use the cash you’re borrowing. Sometimes, using it for your travel expenses might not be a good reason. However, if you’d say that you’ll be using it for home improvement, the officer might approve it.

Again, before you apply for a personal loan at Security Bank Philippines, you need to make sure that you’re capable of repaying it.

Honeymoon insurance may seem like a useless insurance package plan. However, for those who have been through honeymoon trips, this type of insurance is essential. This is especially true if you don’t want to complete your trip with unwanted bills.

What are some unexpected things that can wreak havoc on your honeymoon?

Natural calamity

This includes hurricane, flood, and earthquakes. Anything can happen while you’re on honeymoon. When you encounter them, how can you be sure that you can still recover your funds?

Delayed flights

Missing your connection or delayed flights can be troublesome. Do you know how to arrange with your travel agent of an alternative trip? Do you have funds to catch up?

Becoming ill

An adventurous sport can be exciting when it happens during your honeymoon. But what if one of you would get ill? Do you know where to go to get proper medical care? How about funds to pay for the treatment?

Called off

Honeymoons are expensive. When the wedding is called off, can you still get a refund for your honeymoon trips?

What honeymoon insurance coverage should you consider?

Cancellation coverage

It provides you reimbursement for your trips that have been already paid earlier but your trip has been cancelled for some reason.

Missed connection or delayed flight coverage

This type of honeymoon insurance coverage will give you assistance on how to catch up to your flight when it left without you.

Adventure coverage

This is an essential coverage if your honeymoon involves adventure activities. It will provide you medical assistance for a medical treatment that you and/or spouse need while honeymooning in a certain island.

Medical coverage

You may meet an accident while traveling to, say Australia. This type of coverage will provide reimbursement for you or your spouse to have medical treatment anywhere you are.

Who should consider honeymoon insurance coverage?

Young couples who just got married should consider this insurance policy. They just saved for this trip. Thus, it’s only necessary to protect such investment.

This policy isn’t only for newlyweds. Rather, it’s also helpful for mature couples who want to renew their vows. It will make sure that the couples are protected against financial losses during their second honeymoon.

Couples with kids must also consider this type of insurance. This is especially true if they don’t have someone to leave their kids behind while honeymooning. They must consider getting a honeymoon insurance that’ll also cover their kids who’ll be traveling with them.

Seniors who recently got hitched should also obtain this insurance. Good thing is that insurance companies have different plans for seniors.

Where to purchase this type of insurance?

It’s easy to purchase it from a third-party company. Your travel agent may also offer you coverage for your situation.

When choosing the right coverage or company offering it, it’s important that you make your decision not based on the price. Rather, you should also consider you and your spouse’s needs when traveling for a honeymoon. Conduct a thorough research before opting for a perfect honeymoon insurance coverage.

How many islands in the Philippines?

The number of islands in the Philippines will depend on the sea levels. When it’s high tide, the country has 7,100 islands. For low tide, you can find more than 7,107 islands in the Philippines.

How many islands in the Philippines are inhabited?

Out of those islands, only 2,000 of them are inhabited. Thus, there are over 5,000 islands that haven’t been explored.

Located in Southeast Asia, the Philippines is one of the countries you shouldn’t miss to visit when you’re looking for islands to explore.

Most of the islands in the Philippines have white sand with turquoise water that’s filled with diverse marine life.

To help you get started in exploring the many islands in the Philippines, here are 4 that can give you a good starting point.

El Nido, Palawan – Philippines Asia

Emily VanKamp of Revenge had been here. Other Hollywood celebrities who visited Philippines in Asia were also amazed by the beauty of El Nido in Palawan. It’s considered as the first step to having wild adventure in the Philippine Asia.

Outside the coast of El Nido, you’ll find majestic empty lagoons, caves and waterfalls, among others. All of them are easy to explore.

If you’re a diver, you should consider exploring the waters of El Nido in Philippine Asia. Its surrounding waters have 50 species of whales, sea cows and endangered turtles.

Oslob, Cebu

Are you fond of watching sharks? Then, you belong to Oslob, Cebu, one of the many islands in the Philippines Asia.

Each morning, whale sharks are seen off the shores of this town. After having a great sight of them, you can have a refreshing dip at Tumalog Waterfalls. Or have a diving exploration in Moalboal.

Do you want to get to know more about Spanish colonial houses? You can do go to Carcar town. The city is also known for its delicious lechon or whole roasted pig. Don’t forget to try its crunchy deep-fried pork skin or, commonly known in Philippine Asia as chicharon.

Boracay Aklan

It’s one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Philippines. In fact, if you want to see some local celebrities soaking in water, you should go here.

The 4-kilometer stretch of Boracay offers several adventures for beach bums and water enthusiasts.

During nighttime, the island is still alive and you’ll find sand castles that have been lit with colorful candles. You can also visit some of its cozy restaurants and bars that remain open until dawn.

If you want the calmer side of Boracay, you can go to secluded coves, cliffs, and caves, which are still part of the island.

During March or summer season, Boracay conducts competition for kite-boarders and windsurfers known as International Funboard Cup.

With the island’s forceful waves and powerful winds, this island of the Philippine Asia becomes an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts.

Panglao, Bohol

It was once known as a sleepy island. Today, it’s being roused by local and foreign travelers. If you’re looking for diverse aquatic attractions, you’ll surely appreciate Panglao in Bohol.

Dolphin watching whale spotting, sea snakes and jackfish are just few of the things you can enjoy seeing while in this island of the Philippine Asia.

Apart from its beaches, Bohol is also known for its Chocolate Hills. The hills are shaped like a dome. They’re called chocolate because of their brown color. Their color is visible during dry season.

Want to see the world’s smallest primate? Visit Bohol now and see the endangered Philippine tarsier.

Pico de Loro is a popular destination for people who are fond of mountain climbing and hiking.

Apart from its beauty, this tourist destination is another go-to place if you need a low-cost destination while exploring the Philippines.

It’s also an ideal place if you want a tourist spot that’s near Metro Manila.

What you can see?

While hiking this mountain, you’ll experience its beautiful forests that resemble that of the forests in fairytales.

It also offers views of Cavite and Batangas, including the West Philippine Sea.

In addition to those overwhelming views, you’ll also get to see bending bamboos, huge and old trees.

Plus, you’ll hear hissing of snakes and hymns of birds. Interesting, isn’t it?

How long the drive is to this tourist destination?

Pico de Loro is situated just 2 ½ hours away from Metro Manila. It’s also part of the DENR’s Protected Area in Ternate, Cavite.

Just like in Mt. Apo, this place requires hikers and climbers to register at the Campsite 1, which is located within the area. Per hiker will need to pay around PHP50 ($1+).

But unlike Mt. Apo, Pico de Loro doesn’t need a tour guide to help you out. Its mountain trail has signage so you won’t get lost while exploring the place.

Reward yourself after the hike

After conquering Mt. Pico de Loro, you should reward yourself for the job well done by going to the beach, like the Hamilo Coast.

The Pico Sands Hotel is the 7-storey hotel within the beach and country club of Pico de Loro. The hotel has 154 rooms and each room is spacious with modern amenities and, of course, captivating views of the lagoon and mountains.

Its country club has bowling lanes, music lounge, and cafe, in addition to its swimming pool.

St. Therese of the Child Jesus

It’s a small chapel that allows you to see the West Philippine Sea of the cove.

Did you know that this chapel was built for Henry Sy’s grandson’s wedding? Yes. It’s an all-glass chapel that can be an ideal place for weddings and special occasions.

When your stomach is already rumbling, you can drop by Sun Coral Café. It’s a seaside grill that offers Pako Salad, crispy pork slap, and pancit habhab, among others. Unfortunately, this café is only for members and their guests.

Pico de Loro offers tons of beautiful spots that you can’t explore within one day. Thus, you’ll need to stay here for at least 2 days to travel around must-see areas.

Best Diving Sites in Tubbataha Reef National Park

Swimming with sharks and watching different species of fish are just two of the things you can do when you’re diving in Tubbataha Reef National Park. Get to know the best, highly recommended diving sites in this place.

Are you into scuba diving like me? How about let’s take an adventure to Tubbataha Reefs National Park? The park is home to several diving sites. In 2008, it has been nominated as one of the world’s Wonders of Nature. And since 1993, it’s been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thus, you can just imagine how astonishing its beauty is. You might also be wondering about its diverse wildlife thriving there.

My friends who went there were in awe of it. They can’t describe its astonishing beauty in a few words. A sanctuary for marine biodiversity, Tubbataha Reef is home to more than 360 coral species, 13 whale species, 600 types of fish and 11 shark species.

It’s no wonder why wildlife enthusiasts from all around the world flock to this place just to experience its beauty and enjoy its awesome creatures. If you’re like me who want to scuba dive in this place, here are some suggested dive sites my friends have been to.

1. Southwest Rock

It’s found on the North Atoll that features awe-inspiring wall. The wall is covered with a wide array of corals. While you scuba dive, you’ll see groupers, mackerels and Napoleon wrasses drifting in this dive site.

How about sharks? Yes. It’s highly likely that you’ll encounter grey reef sharks and those beautiful white-tip reef sharks.

Lobsters and crabs can be easily seen while you enjoy night diving.

2. Black Rock

If you choose this dive site, then don’t expect to see lots of corals. Instead, you’ll enjoy watching and swimming with white-tip reef sharks and manta rays.

3. Bird Island

It’s another favorite diving site in Tubbataha Reef. But it’s not for a novice scuba diver as it’s known for its strong currents. You must only scuba dive along with a licensed open water diver.

Nonetheless, you’ll enjoy seeing different colorful corals, eels, rays and sharks. A giant ray may also come out, if you’re that lucky.

4. Malayan Wall

Catch hammerhead sharks while scuba diving in Malayan Wall within the Tubbataha Reef. But this site is intended only for advanced divers. This is because it needs you to drift into the deep blue sea to appreciate the water.

5. Malayan Wreck

This is also ideal for open water diver as currents are strong. When you’re an advanced diver, you’ll enjoy swimming with seahorses, nudibrances and, yes, white tip reef shark.

Scuba Diving with an advanced diver

As previously mentioned, if you’re a beginner in diving, it’s best that you scuba dive with an advanced diver or get into a drift diver training. In this way, accidents can be avoided and you’ll enjoy the beauty of the place.

If you are into seeing and swimming with sharks and different species of fish, then you should visit Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. Shark lovers must go and see Dalsan Wreck, which is also great for a full day diving. You’ll appreciate late afternoon dive in Staghorn Point.

The cost

Expect to spend more than PHP5,000 just diving into the Tubbataha Reefs.

Currently, the Philippines is fighting against the damaging effects of the strongest storm ever recorded – Haiyan or Yolanda. It’s now hitting central islands of the country. Thousands of people have been forced to safer ground. Some power and phone lines have been cut. Air and sea transportation units are grounded.

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Haiyan or Yolanda is considered as a category 5 typhoon having winds of up to 275 kilometers per hour. With this speed, it can whip up giant waves to as high as 5 meters. This means that it may lash some islands of Leyte and Samar.

Some people there feared that the sea would rise because of the powerful winds caused by Haiyan. Those trees that are in coastal areas have fallen. More than a million people in 20 provinces are seeking shelter in several areas as they were asked to evacuate danger areas, like mountain slopes, coastal areas and river banks.

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

According to Jeff Masters, a former meteorologist, Haiyan or Yolanda may be the most extreme typhoon in the history but it is a fast-moving storm. This means that it won’t be that bad. Furthermore, the Philippines is already used to flooding from heavy rain.

Haiyan isn’t only the strongest storm this year but it’s among the top 12 largest storm to ever hit the planet.

It has already ripped almost all roofs in north of Cebu. Plus, it dragged parked cars and motorcycles. Those cars with handbrakes but hasn’t been set were pushed by winds caused by this super storm. There’s zero visibility at Mandaue Bridge making it a lot more difficult to drive. Some residents are seeking shelter anywhere, even a small chapel is used as an evacuation site.

A few weeks ago, central Philippines was hit by a strong earthquake that caused severe damage to several areas. Those houses that haven’t been affected by the earthquake are now severely smashed.

After the Philippines, the storm will later hit Vietnam and Laos. Every year, the Philippines experiences an average of 20 typhoons. Last year, Bopha or Pablo flattened some towns in southern island of Mindanao, which rarely happened. The estimated damage was $1.04 billion. With this super typhoon, we’ll be expecting an estimated damage of more than a billion pesos.

Fortunately, our nation is resilient.

An archipelago of over 7,000 islands, the Philippines has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, exotic wildlife, and diverse cuisine. The islands have been a major tourist destination for years and the locals are always welcoming and hospitable. Whether you and your spouse enjoy staying active outdoors or prefer to wash away stress at a beach or spa, the Philippines is an exceptionally romantic and relaxing destination that has something to offer everyone.

Quezon City

As one of the most affluent and populous areas in the Philippines, Quezon City makes a perfect destination for couples who love urban life. The Cocoon Boutique Hotel, winner of the 2013 Travelers' Choice Top Hotels award, is a luxurious and enchanting place for you to spend the nights with your significant other.

Take a break from the urban bustle and visit La Mesa Eco Park. The park was taken over by a pro-environment protection program in response to the environmental damage that urbanization caused in Quezon City. Now, it hosts locations in which you and your spouse can go running, swimming, biking, horseback riding, and even bungee jumping together.

The Araneta Coliseum is the central entertainment center in the city—it is always worth checking to see if there are any shows or sporting events both of you would like to go to.

Boracay

Boracay is known as one of the world's top relaxation destinations. It may only be 4.5 miles wide, but it squeezes in some of the best luxury resorts in the Philippines, such as the Ambassador in Paradise Resort. If you and your loved one like to be treated like royalty, think about honeymooning in Boracay.

Start a day in Boracay by visiting the Yapak Beach and the White Beach surrounding the heart of Boracay. The beaches are rated as two of the best white sand beaches in Asia.

Continue your relaxing, romantic experience with a romantic stroll on the White Beach Path. Sink your feet into the clean, fine sands of the path, which lines a long row of romantic eateries. Together, you and your loved one can feast on some of the best food in the archipelago.

Baguio

Like Quezon City, Baguio is a major city and a popular destination for tourists to the Philippines. It is one of the most environmentally friendly cities in the country and its mountainous landscapes are home to breathtaking views and entertaining activities.

Hike up one of Baguio’s mountains and see stunning views of the entire island at the top. On the way down, you can study the ancient cemeteries and religious temples carved into the mountainside by the natives.

Take a horseback ride together to see the city in an exciting way. A tour guide will accompany you during the ride so you can sit back and delight in the sights and sounds of Baguio.

Palawan

In 2007, National Geographic Traveller voted Palawan as the best island destination in East and Southeast Asia. In addition to its beautiful landscapes and seascapes, Palawan cuisine and wildlife is some of the richest and most colorful in the entire country.

For a serene outdoor adventure, go to Palawan’s Barracuda Lake, Secret Lagoon Beach, or Coron Bay. At these places, you can go swimming, diving, wading, or snorkeling with some of the local natives.

Go to Honda Bay and go island-hopping to the nearby El Nido. You can also go diving in one of Palawan’s reefs and see the exotic marine life of the archipelago up close.

Siquijor

If you are looking for a more secluded spot, head to Siquijor, which means Isle of Fire. It is known among Filipinos for its supernatural occurrences and beautiful natural landscapes.

Head to the town for one of Siquijor’s many festivals, in which you will watch the natives celebrate their culture and religion by performing superstitious acts and seemingly impossible feats.

Drop by the gargantuan Balete tree, which is the oldest tree in the province, and treat yourselves to a romantic spa treatment. The spas at the Balete tree feature a fish foot treatment, so you can have your skin rejuvenated by the exotic fish that inhabit Siquijor.

You can find many package deals online, which allow you to take a week to experience the natural beauty of the Philippines with your loved one. However, these packages can be slightly overpriced and not of the best quality. If you know enough about where you want to go and what you want to do during your time in the Philippines, you can plan your own honeymoon rather than purchasing a package deal. Taking out some time to create an itinerary will guarantee you a better and more romantic experience in the archipelago with your love.

John Gower is a writer for NerdWallet, a personal finance website dedicated to helping you save money with financial tips on everything from travel to the best online trading site.

Photo credits:

Meeru http://www.meeru.com/Photos/Rooms/bee53-Honeymoon-Suite-Exterior_lg.jpg)

Trip Advisor http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/00/1b/f5/79/boracay.jpg)

Medical tourism is not new in the Philippines. For many years, people have been visiting this country just to undergo a medical procedure or seek medical treatment. But, it was only recently that the country has been recognized as a healthcare destination. In those years, the Philippines has achieved medical breakthroughs allowing it to be one of the most advanced nations in Asia when it comes to the field of healthcare.

JCI AND ISO CERTIFIED

All leading hospitals here in the Philippines are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI). They are also certified by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). With that in mind, you can be sure that you are in good hands when visiting the Philippines for medical treatment.

COMPARABLE TO HOSPITALS IN THE US

Leading hospitals in the Philippines are comparable to some of the hospitals in the US. They are better equipped making this another reason the country is well-known for its medical tourism. The healthcare cost in this country is just a fraction of the cost when seeking medical treatment in Europe. But you can get the same excellent healthcare as those hospitals in the UK, Germany, and other parts of Europe.

TRAVEL AND TREATMENT

The Philippines is not only known for its medical tourism but it is also a popular destination for its beautiful beaches and other wonderful spots waiting to be explored. After your medical treatment, you can relax in seaside resorts, go island hopping or hiking through the country’s tropical rainforest.
The country is a tropical paradise because of its warm climate and welcoming people. Thus, it is just ideal to travel here for a medical treatment and spend your holiday visiting various tourism spots in the country.

COST OF SEEKING MEDICAL TREATMENT

Take a look at the examples below:

FACELIFT

Rhytidectomy or facelift will cost you at least $10,000 in the US. But if the procedure is done in the Philippines, you will only have to pay approximately $1,000.

LAMNIPLASTY

This procedure can cost more than $120,000 in the US. However, hospitals in the Philippines will only charge you $9,000 (or less) for the same procedure.

With the examples above, you can really expect to obtain great savings for most medical procedures as compared with the costs charged by US hospitals.

ENGLISH FLUENCY

Another reason you must consider the medical tourism in this country is the fact that almost all Filipinos living in the Philippines can speak the English language. It is widely spoken in the country. It is used in business and education.
Because of that, you do not have to worry about communicating or transacting with Filipinos while staying in the beautiful islands of the Philippines.

FOOD

Filipino food is a combination of Western and Eastern cuisines. Almost all restaurants and hotels are serving Japanese, Korean, Continental, Spanish, American, Indian and Chinese food.

So, if you want an ideal location to help you rest and relax while undergoing treatment, you should consider the medical tourism in the Philippines. The beautiful islands of the Philippines can offer a stress-free break to regain your health.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Janey Danes started her career as a part-time article writer, editor and proofreader in 2008. She specializes in topics related to health, travel, technology, family, and spiritual life. Danes is a licensed medical technologist and she holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Technology.

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