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Diver and whale shark, Oslob, CebuJay Kok

4
| AirAsia Berhad 2014. All rights reserved.
S
E
N
I
P
P
PHILI P
MA
CONTENTS
Overview
Philippines Map
The Philippines Infographic
METRO MANILA
CEBU
Special Feature I
Islands of Adventure
KALIBO
Special Feature II
Hello, Good Buy
PUERTO PRINCESA
TAGBILARAN
Design Your Philippines Itinerary
Special Feature III
The A to Z of Filipino Food
Events Calendar
Pilipinas Packing List
Pinoy Behavior 101/Travel Tips
Getting Around the Philippines
4
6
7
10
18
23
26
30
32
35
38
40
44
46
47
48
Information in this guide is correct at

press time and is subject to change
without prior notice.
Cover image by Adam Lee

at Ati-Atihan Festival, Kalibo
8
DO
&
E
SE
METRO MANILA
Find your bearings in the busy streets of the Philippine capital,
where colourful jeepneys weave in and out of traffic and modern
buildings rise over the urban sprawl.
INTRAMUROS
Hop on a calesa (horse-drawn carriage) and take a trip down Old
Manilas cobblestone streets to explore the Walled City of Intramuros.
Dont miss the earthquake baroque UNESCO World Heritage Site of
San Agustin Church and its museum, as well as the historic Fort Santiago
where national hero Jose Rizal spent his final days.
San Agustin Church: Free. San Agustin Museum: PHP100.
ADMISSION
Fort Santiago: PHP70.
HOW
LRT: United Nations Station (10 mins walk) Intramuros
Makati (30 mins taxi) Intramuros
CONTACT
San Agustin Church
+63 2 5272746
sanagustinchurch.org
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
The current structure of San Agustin Church was built in 1589, making it
the oldest existing stone church in the Philippines. It is a popular venue for
weddings.
San Agustin Church

10
Fancy a ride on a horse-drawn carriage?
F
O
P
A
M
LA
I
N
A
M
RIZAL PARK
Once an execution site during the
Spanish colonial rule, this park
is now a green lung of the city.
Go on a pleasant stroll to see the
light and sound show, the giant
relief map of the Philippines, the
National Museum, the nightly
dancing fountains, and the iconic
Rizal Monument close to the spot
where the national hero faced the
firing squad.
ADMISSION Free. National
Museum: PHP150.
HOW
LRT: United Nations station
CONTACT
National Parks Development
Committee
rizalpark.nationalparks.ph
Rizal Monument
ACTIVITIES
FANS SUGGEST!
Keep the little ones occupied
by visiting Museo Pambata and
Manila Ocean Park, both adjacent
to Rizal Park.
BEYOND THIS GUIDE
Whats in Metro Manila?

13 Things You Need to Know
Hanging Out in Metro Manila:
Cool Zones & Hotspots
AirAsia Berhad 2014. All rights reserved. |
11
MANILA
Street artoutside Vinyl on Vinyl, The Collective
THE COLLECTIVE
Hidden in a Makati side street,
this hip little enclave is where cool
artisans and creative types go for
indie music and limited edition
products.
ADMISSION
Free
HOW
Ayala Center (20 mins taxi)
The Collective
CONTACT
The Collective
www.facebook.com/
thecollectivemanila
ACTIVITIES
LOCAL INSIGHTS!
Although most stores open late
in the afternoon, The Collective
is liveliest after dark, especially
when there are public events in the
central courtyard.
Manila Bay (CC BY) Abby Yao
AYALA MUSEUM
HOW
MRT: Ayala station
In the heart of Makati CBD, the

Ayala Museum is literally a treasure
trove with dioramas of Philippine
history, a regular calendar of art
exhibitions and a collection of preHispanic gold that will make your
jaw drop.
CONTACT
Ayala Museum
+63 2 7577117 to 21
www.ayalamuseum.org
ADMISSION Resident PHP225,

Non-resident PHP425.
TRANSPORT
Three urban train lines run through the main thoroughfaresMRT, LRT
and LRT2making it easier to get from Manila, Makati, Ortigas and
Quezon City quickly. These are best avoided during rush hour. Taxis are
common but insist on using the meter.
12
ACTIVITIES
LOCAL INSIGHTS!
After exploring the museum, have
a meal at Kabila Filipino Bistro
next door. Their pancit, bulalo
and grilled favourites are good for
sharing.
IONS
S
R
U
EXC
BANAUE RICE
TERRACES
In the remote mountainous
hinterlands of Luzon, these
2,000-year-old rice terraces are
the oldest remaining structures
in the Philippines, cited in the
UNESCO World Heritage List as
a living cultural landscape of
unparalleled beauty.
ADMISSION Free
HOW
Manila (9-10 hrs night bus)
Banaue
CONTACT
Department of Tourism
itsmorefuninthephilippines.com
ACTIVITIES
Batad Rice TerracesOanh Nguyen Kim
CORREGIDOR ISLAND
The Rock, as the island is known,
owes its colourful and fascinating
history to its location at the
mouth of Manila Bay. Pirates and
invaders, prisoners and heroes
have all been part of Corregidors
storied past, which includes two
important World War II battles.
Today, memorials, the lighthouse
and the light-and-sound show are
the main draws.
ADMISSION Ferry transfers from
PHP1,250 on weekdays. Day tours
including ferry transfers, guided
tour and lunch start at PHP2,200
on weekdays.
HOW
Harbour Square, CCP Complex,
Pasay City (75 mins by ferry)
Corregidor
CONTACT
Sun Cruises
www.corregidorphilippines.com
LOCAL INSIGHTS!
Some treks are possible without
a guide, but hire a local guide if
you are unsure, as most trails are
unmarked.
14
Spanish Lighthouse, Corregidor Island
ACTIVITIES
FANS SUGGEST!
If youre not afraid of the dark, stay
overnight and go on a night lateral
tour of Malinta Tunnel, once used
as a 1,000-bed hospital.
ENTERTAINMENT
Filipinos are a musical people,
and there are gigs in various
genres nightly all over the metro.
International acts also drop by
often, so there is no shortage
of concerts. Theatre (especially
musicals) is performed at a high
standard. Check listings and
ticket websites before you go.
MANILA
TAGAYTAY
South of the metropolis, Tagaytay
ridge makes a great day trip. Drive
past pineapple plantations and
fruit stands to gaze at (or climb)
the worlds smallest volcano on
Taal Lake. Visit the Ilog Maria Bee
Farm, go on a pilgrimage at the
lovely chapels, or take in the view
from the SkyEye, the countrys
tallest Ferris wheel. Dont miss
the coconut cream pie at Puzzle
Mansion.
ADMISSION Free. Admission
charges vary for attractions.
HOW
Manila (2 hrs hired car/van)
Tagaytay
CONTACT
Department of Tourism
itsmorefuninthephilippines.com
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
They call it Inception in
geographical form: Vulcan Point
is an island on the crater lake on
Volcano Island on Taal Lake on
Luzon Island. Confused yet?
VILLA ESCUDERO
At this coconut plantation and
resort famous for its waterfalls
restaurant, simple joys from
simpler times are aplenty. Go bird
watching and bamboo rafting
on the lake, tour the farm, and
see the ethnic and folk dances
(weekends and holidays only) to
complete your Philippine cultural
experience.
AERA Memorial Museum, Villa Escudero
Taal Lake
ADMISSION Day tour, inclusive

of lunch Mon-Thu, Adults
PHP1,250, Children below 4ft
PHP625; Fri-Sun & Holidays,
Adults PHP1,400, Children below
4ft PHP700. Reservations essential.
HOW
Manila (2-3 hrs hired car/ tour
van) Villa Escudero
CONTACT
Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort
www.villaescudero.com
ACTIVITIES
Centre, World War II Death March

Marker and the mothballed Bataan
Nuclear Power Plant.
ADMISSION PHP650. Free
below 5 years.
HOW
Manila (2-3 hrs hired car/ tour
van) Las Casas Filipinas de
Acuzar
CONTACT
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar
lascasasfilipinas.com
ACTIVITIES
LOCAL INSIGHTS!
The Escuderos, a family of
agriculturists, maintain an eclectic
collection of historical and religious
artefactsone of the largest
private collections in the country
at the AERA Memorial Museum in
the resort.
LAS CASAS FILIPINAS

DE ACUZAR
FANS SUGGEST!
Bring a parasol or a head covering
as it can get very hot on sunny days.
CHRISTMAS SEASON
On September 1st, Christmas
carols can be heard in the
Philippines, kicking off the
worlds longest Christmas
season. Celebrate the holidays
at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in
Makati City, which draws crowds
for its light and sound show.
Serenaded by classic kundiman

(traditional Tagalog love songs), you
will find the Philippines of yesteryear
still alive in this heritage resort
made of painstakingly restored and
reconstructed Spanish-era dwellings.
While youre in the area, visit the
Pawikan (sea turtle) Conservation
15
BUY
& EAT
RAGS2RICHES
Chic but not shabby, Rags2Riches weaves timeless
bags and clutches into stylish choices for the socially
aware.
POLVORON
Wrapped in cellophane, a milky powdery treat.
Rags2Riches clutches
CASHEW AND PILI TARTS

Chewy and nutty mini-tarts with a crunchy shell
HALO-HALO
Mix-mix is a rainbow of sweets under shaved ice
best for summer.
BALUT
Duck egg fetus delicacy for fearless foodies.
SISIG
Chopped pigs ears are a Pampanga specialty, great
with a round of drinks.
Adobo
ADOBO
Cooked in soy sauce and vinegar, chicken or pork (or
both) transforms into a Filipino favourite.
Earn
oints
BIG Pree
for f .
Sisig
flightsnow!
p
Sign u
HOW TO GET TO MANILA
16
RECOMMENDED
STAYS
From
Frequency
Kota Kinabalu
Kuala Lumpur
Macau
Seoul
Shanghai
Cebu
Kalibo
Puerto Princesa
Tacloban
Tagbilaran
1x Daily MYR 85
2x Daily MYR 165
3x Weekly MOP 395
1x Daily KRW 22,600
1x Daily CNY 377
7x Daily PHP 690
6x Daily PHP 590
3x Daily PHP 590
1x Daily PHP 590
3x Daily PHP 690
NIGHTLIFE
Swanky clubs and high-end bars
are clustered at Bonifacio Global
City in Taguig City, which has
grown by leaps and bounds in
the last decade.
Fare From
Tune Hotel - Ermita, Manila

Tune Hotel - Makati, Manila

Heritage Hotel

Bayview Park Hotel Manila

Diamond Hotel Philippines

BOOK NOW
DO
&
E
SE
CEBU
Since explorer Ferdinand

Magellan and the native
chieftain Lapu-Lapus deadly
encounter in 1521, sunny
Cebu has blossomed as
Central Philippines hub for
business and culture, a city
where East meets West, but
no longer with fatal outcomes.
Today, buildings stand side by
side in the urban centre, while
jaw-dropping beaches lie off
the coast. Take your time in
Cebu, a city of contrasts and
fascinating history.
BEYOND THIS GUIDE
A Crazy Experience At The
Sinulog Festival
Cebus largest festival is centred on the

Infant Jesus Irvin Hanni
SINULOG FESTIVAL
Viva! Pit Seor! is what youll
be hearing throughout this grand
parade with decorative floats,
brightly coloured costumes,
marching bands, higantes and
puppeteers, and an endless sea
of jovial people. This massive
festival commemorates the coming
of Christianity to the Philippines,
when Magellan presented the city
of Cebu with a statue of Santo Nio
aka Infant Jesus.
Cebu city centre
HOW
(11 mins taxi) Basilican Minore
Del Santo Nio
CONTACT
Basilica Minore del Santo Nio de
Cebu Pilgrim Center
+63 32 255 6697
basilicasantonino.org.ph
Conquer your fear of heights at Sky Experience Adventure! Adam Lee
ACTIVITIES
FANS SUGGEST!
Book your flights and hotel early!
SKY EXPERIENCE
ADVENTURE
Get ready for some heart-pumping
thrills with Sky Walk Extreme and
the Edge Coaster. Also, have fun at
the 4D Theater, Vivo Game Zone
and Sky Observatory.
ADMISSION Sky Extreme
Adventure: PHP600 per ride. Sky
Rides: PHP250 entry, PHP300 per
ride. Packages available.
Cebu city centre
HOW
(3 mins walk) Crown Regency
Hotel & Towers
CONTACT
Sky Experience Adventure
+63 32 418 8888
www.skyexperienceadventure.com
ACTIVITIES
FANS SUGGEST!
Get your experience photos printed
for PHP150 each.
18
CEBU
Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House decked

with Christmas lanterns Adam Lee
FANS SUGGEST!
Check out the museum at the
basement of the Pilgrim Centre to
see religious images and artefacts as
well as ancient vestments belonging
to the Santo Nio.
FUN FACT!
Destroyed by fire, it was rebuilt thrice
in 1605, 1628 and finally in 1735,
when it was constructed with hard
stone materials.
TAOIST TEMPLE
HERITAGE HOUSES
Climb up the 81 steps that
symbolise chapters of the Taoist
scripture for fantastic views of
Cebu and a walk through rich
Chinese heritage.
Take a walk through vintage

Philippines via Casa Gorordo, an
old house previously occupied
by Cebus first Cebuano Bishop
Juan Gorordo. Just a few steps
down is the Yap-Sandiego House,
built during the late 1600s, and
believed to be one of the oldest
existing residential structures in
the Philippines.
ADMISSION Free
Cebu city centre
HOW
(11 mins taxi) Taoist Temple
ADMISSION Casa Gorordo:

Local PHP40, Foreigner PHP70.
Yap-Sandiego House: PHP50.
Irvin Hanni
Cebu City centre

HOW
(11 mins taxi) Casa Gorordo
CONTACT
Cebu City Tourism
+63 32 412 4355
www.cebucitytourism.com
ACTIVITIES
explorer Ferdinand Magellan

presented Queen Juana of Cebu
with the statue of the Infant
Jesus, believed to be countrys
oldest religious relic. Fragments
of Magellans original cross are
encased in a hollow cross above the
spot where the first Filipinos were
baptized in 1521.
ADMISSION Free
FUN FACT!
Casa Gorordo was originally built by
Alejandro Reynes y Rosales using coral
stone blocks and terracotta roof tiles.
BASILICA MINORE
DEL SANTO NIO AND
MAGELLANS CROSS
The birthplace of Catholicism in
the Philippines, Basilica Minore Del
Santo Nio is where Portuguese
CONTACT
Cebu City Tourism
+63 32 412 4355
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
The entrance is a replica of the Great
Wall of China.
FANS SUGGEST!
With a small donation, you can get
your fortune read at the temple.
Cebu city centre

HOW
(6 mins taxi) Basilican Minore
del Santo Nio
CONTACT
Basilica Minore del Santo Nio de
Cebu Pilgrim Center
+63 32 255 6697
basilicasantonino.org.ph
ACTIVITIES
The approach to the Taoist temple
Adam Lee
19
NS
O
I
S
R
EXCU
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
Malapascua Island, which means
unfortunate Christmas, got its
name from Spaniards who were
stranded here on Christmas Day in
1520.
Bantayan Islands waters will

amaze youHayden Carlyon
MOALBOAL
OSLOB
Oslob town is best known for the
eco-tourism haven Sumilon Island,
a marine sanctuary featuring four
major dive sites. But even if you
dont dive, come here to snorkel
with the huge and friendly whale
sharks, seen all year round.
ADMISSION Snorkelling:
PHP500 Local, PHP1,500 Foreigner
Cebu city centre
HOW
(2 hrs taxi) Oslob
OR
Cebu City South Bus Terminal
(3 hrs bus) Oslob
CONTACT
Cebu City Tourism
+63 32 412 4355
ACTIVITIES
20
One of Oslobs gentle giantsJay Kok
BANTAYAN AND
MALAPASCUA
The magnificent underwater

paradise at Moalboal town is
deemed one of the best scuba
sites in the world, where exuberant
marine life swims around the many
slopes and small caves under the
sea.
ADMISSION Free. Rates for
diving vary.
Ready your beach towel, a good

book and sunblock lotion when
you arrive on the sparkling white
shores of Bantayan Island, and
prepare your scuba gear to meet
the Thresher Sharks of Malapascua
Island.
Cebu city centre

HOW
(2.5 hrs taxi) Moalboal
OR
Cebu City South Bus Terminal
(3 hrs bus) Moalboal
ADMISSION Free
CONTACT
Cebu City Tourism
+63 32 412 4355
Cebu North Bus

HOW
Terminal (1 hr 40 mins taxi / 3 hrs
bus) Hagnaya Port (1.5 hrs ferry)
Santa Fe Port,Bantayan Island
OR
Cebu North Bus Terminal (2.5 hrs
taxi / 4 hrs bus) Maya (30 mins
boat) Malapasacua Island
CONTACT
Cebu City Tourism
+63 32 412 4355
ACTIVITIES
FANS SUGGEST!
When in Moalboal, go on an
excursion to Pescador Island
which is known for its variety of
fascinating aquatic life interlaced
with vibrant corals.
BUY
& EAT
CEBU
Colourful fashion accessoriesAdam Lee
Lechon CebuAdam Lee
LECHON
Sink your teeth into the crispy skin
and deliciously tender meat of a
roasted pig! Originating from Spain
and adapted to local tastes, Cebus
lechon is Anthony Bourdains roast
pork of choice.
BARBECUE AT LARSIAN
Take your pick between chicken,
pork, squid and fish from one of
the many stalls and have them
barbequed right on the spot.
Dipped in soy-vinegar sauce and
eaten with puso (compressed
rice in woven palm leaves), these
skewers will leave you asking for
more!
FASHION ACCESSORIES
Bangles, necklaces and earrings
in vibrant colours and intricate
patterns perfect souvenirs for
your special lady(s) back home!
SUTUKIL
SuTuKil is an abbreviation of three
cooking methods in Cebu which
are sugba (grill), tula (stew) and
kilaw (raw), popular in Mactan
area. Just pick your seafood
of choice and have it cooked
whichever way you like!
OTAP
A Cebuano original, this ovalshaped pastry sprinkled with
powder sugar is a popular
merienda (snack) in the
Philippines.
DRIED SEAFOOD
Polish your bargaining skills and
head to Taboan Market, where
there are arrays of stalls selling
dried and salted seafood.
Street food at LarsianAdam Lee
HOW TO GET TO CEBU
Earn
oints
BIG Pree
for f .
flightsnow!
p
Sign u
From
Frequency
Seoul
Kuala Lumpur
Manila
1x Daily KRW 27,600

4x Weekly MYR 176
7x Daily PHP 690
Fare From
Taboan Markets piles of

dried fishAdam Lee
RECOMMENDED
STAYS
Tune Hotels - Cebu City,

Philippines

Best Western Plus Lex Cebu

Quest Hotel Cebu

Pacific Pensionne

Waterfront Cebu City Hotel &
Casino
BOOK NOW
21
ISLANDS OF
ADVENTURE
IAL
C
E
P
S
RE I
U
T
A
FE
The Mt Pinatubo trail takes you through a lunar-like landscape where you
pass by car-sized boulders and cross flowing streams. (CC BY) Abby Yao
The Philippine archipelago is a thrill-seekers dream, with mountains, rivers, caves, waterfalls,
volcanoes, and some of the richest reefs in the Coral Triangle making up its colourful mosaic.
Heres a rundown of pulse-racing suggestions for your island holiday.
By Abby Yao
FROM MANILA
Get out of the metropolis for

a double adrenaline rush! In
Pampanga, two hours away from
Manila, you can fly in an ultralight
aircraft with the Angeles City Flying
Club and go wakeboarding at Deca
Wake Clark Cable Park on the same
day. Talk about travelling in style!
Even kids can try wakeboarding, but dont
be fooledits trickier than it looks!
The site of the second most

powerful volcanic eruption in
recent history, Mt Pinatubo is now
a 4x4 ride and a short trek to its
crater lake. The full-day trip can
be combined with mud and sand
treatments at PDC Spa Town or
Puning Hot Spring.
Craving for something special?
Arrange for a unique guided tour
of Bataan Nuclear Power Plant
for the rare chance to see a real
reactor up close! Or if you just want
to release your pent-up frustration
and not just on a sub-atomic scale,
visit Isdaan Seafood Restaurant in
Gerona, Tarlac, where you can

throw plates, mugs and even a
small TV against the wall for a fee
much cheaper than therapy!
South of Manila, the province
of Batangas has plenty to offer,
with diving in Anilao and Puerto
Galera, in addition to the Taal
Volcano trek. Is speed your middle
name? Tuason Racing School lets
you experience race car driving
along with basic racing classes at
Batangas Racing Circuit or Clark
International Speedway.
23
With dozens of zip lines across the

country, theres no reason why you
shouldnt try it here! Ruan Dao
Land, water or air? Three hours drive

from Manila is Subic Bay, a former
American naval base with a handful
of dive shops and no less than 30
underwater wrecks, including an
F4 Phantom aircraft! If you prefer
to sharpen your survival instincts
on land, the Jungle Environmental
Survival Training (JEST) run by the
indigenous Aeta people is the way
to go. The course helped American
troops survive in the Vietnam War.
High above the canopy, TreeTop
Adventure Subic wont leave
you hanging when it comes to
breathtaking heights, with rides
named Silver Surfer and Superman.
Superhero wannabes can also try
the latest global extreme sports
craze, flyboarding, at Networx Jet
Sports. Rise above the water using jet
propulsion and channel your inner
Iron Man!
Further north in the Cordillera
mountain range, caving and
trekking Echo Valley in Sagada
will bring you to bizarre hanging
coffins, the traditional burial
method of the Igorot tribe.
Climbing Mt Pulag and whitewater
rafting on the Chico River are also
perfect complements to your
journey to the unmissable Banaue
Rice Terraces.
Some trails are easier than others, but be ready for anything!
trailing and more await the active

traveller. More back-to-basics
adventures await via Planet Action
Adventure, which organises canyon
tours at Montaneza River and Tison
Falls, river climbing at Matutinao
Valley and Osmea Peak climbs.
Dont want to spend much time
on the road? Cebu Wake Park in
Liloan, only 30 minutes away from
Cebu City, will give you the rush
you crave for.
IN THIS GUIDE
Oslob, Sky Experience
KALIBO
Aside from exciting water sports

and relaxing beach activities on
its white sandy beaches, Boracay
has cool land activities like zorbing
at Zorb Park Boracay. At Happy
Dreamland Theme Park, drive a
Go Kart around a circuit or ride
an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) on the
paved road to Ocean Tower, the
islands highest point. More grownup activities include Cocomangas
Bars legendary Still Standing
After 15 shooter challenge
IN THIS GUIDE
Banaue Rice Terraces, Corregidor,
Tagaytay
CEBU
Head for Danao Citys Danasan Eco

Park, where waterfall trekking,
rappelling, caving, 4x4 off-road
24
ATV to Mt Luho, Boracay
which dares you to down 15 shots!

Succeed and your name will be
engraved on the Wall of Fame,
scoring a point for your country.
IN THIS GUIDE
Bulabog Beach, Island Hopping,
Cliff Diving
PUERTO PRINCESA
Theres no shortage of heartpounding pursuits in Palawan.

On your way from Underground
River, Sabang X Zipline offers a
thrilling ride from the hills to the
beach. If thats not enough flying
for you, Irawan Eco Park has a
1.3-km canopy zip line divided
into three sections. If youre visiting
between April and October, ask
your tour operator about dolphin
watching, where entire schools
of Spinner dolphins swim and
spin alongside your boattruly
exhilarating!
IN THIS GUIDE
Ugong Rock
DO
&
E
SE
Boracays iconic parawDOT
KALIBO
Best known as the gateway to world famous beaches of Boracay and site of the Ati-Atihan
Festival every January, Kalibo is more than just a jump-off point for beachcombers. When
the loud drumming and spirited dancing is over, the laidback towns religious traditions
remain strong, as Kalibo takes pride in its history and natural wonders. Established in
the 13th century by settlers from Borneo, this heart of Aklan province reveals hidden
treasures to those with the will to take the ubiquitous tricycle around town and beyond.
19 MARTYRS SHRINE
The shrine was built to
commemorate the death of
19 martyrs who fought for
independence from colonial Spain.
A great place to learn about the
spirit of Katipunan (Philippines
anti-colonial Spanish revolutionary
movement).
ADMISSION Free
HOW
City centre (5 mins
tricycle) 19 Martyrs Shrine
CONTACT
Department of Tourism Region VI
+63 33 3375411
itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/aklan
ACTIVITIES
26
FUN FACT!
March 23rd every year is a special
holiday for the whole Aklan
province in memory of the
19 Martyrs.
MUSEO IT AKEAN
ACTIVITIES
SMART TIP
Hit two birds with one stone by
visiting the Kalibo Cathedral nearby.
Situated a few steps away from

the Kalibo Cathedral, the museum
enlightens visitors about Kalibos
800-year history. The private
collection, housed in the School of
Kings building established in 1882,
includes artefacts and antiques
from the Spanish colonial period.
ADMISSION PHP15
HOW
City centre (5 mins
tricycle) Museo It Akean
CONTACT
+63 33 3375411
A glimpse of the past at

Museo It Akean Adam Lee
KALIBO
ATI-ATIHAN FESTIVAL
BAKHAWAN ECOPARK
SAMPAGUITA GARDENS
The colourful festival is the mother

of all Philippine festivals as many
others are patterned after it.
Its a three-day celebration with
participants dancing and singing
on the street with their faces and
bodies smeared black. A once-ina-lifetime experience!
This lush 75-hectare mangrove

forest offers tranquillity in a former
swampland. Be enthralled by
the views along the 800-metre
bamboo bridge on your nature walk.
More adventurous travellers can
satisfy their cravings by sampling
tamiloka thin, slippery woodworm
regarded as a local delicacy.
Kitschy and unexpectedly cute,

Sampaguita Gardens has a fine
gallery of Precious Moments
ornaments and figurines. Whats
more, the extended Christmas
season in the Philippines gets even
longer at the resorts Christmas
Cottage, open all year round!
ADMISSION Free
HOW
City centre (10
mins walk) Archbishop Gabriel
Reyes Street
CONTACT
Kalibo Sto. Nio Ati-Atihan
Foundation, Inc.
+63 33 3375411
www.kaliboatiatihan.ph
ACTIVITIES
SMART TIP
Catch the carousel presentation at
Apolinario Mabini Street before the
parade officially starts.
ADMISSION PHP20 Adult,

PHP15 Student & Senior Citizen,
Free for Children (Under 5 yrs old)
City centre (15 mins
HOW
tricycle) Bakhawan Ecopark
CONTACT
+63 33 3375411
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
To get the best out of your
experience, hire a tour guide
(available by prior request) and
spend the night at a cottage
(PHP100 per night).
ADMISSION PHP50 Adult,

PHP30 Children (3 12 yrs old)
City centre (20
HOW
mins tricycle) Sampaguita
Gardens
CONTACT
Sampaguita Gardens Resort
+63 36 2643422
sampaguitagardensresort.weebly.com
ACTIVITIES
SMART TIP
Reuse the entrance tickets at the
resorts amenities or to buy food
and beverages.
One of the vibrant troupes at

Ati-Atihan FestivalAdam Lee
27
NS
O
I
S
R
EXCU
Willys Rock, a famous landmark and

grotto in White Beach Station 1
WHITE BEACH, BORACAY

Powdery white sands, clear shallow
waters and endless island vibe
draw both locals and foreigners all
year round to one of the worlds
most famous beaches. Flip-flops
and sunglasses are de riguer; fire
dancers and folk musicians can
often be seen and heard. Chill out
at one of the many nightspots or
have an intimate candlelight dinner
by the beach.
ADMISSION PHP100 (Terminal
Fee) + PHP75 (Environmental
Fee)
HOW Via Boracay Island
Transfers
OR
City centre (1.5-2 hrs van/bus)
Caticlan Jetty
Caticlan Jetty (15-20 mins boat)
Cagban Port
Cagban Port (10-20 mins
tricycle) White Beach
CONTACT
Boracay Tourism Field Office
+63 36 2883689
itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/
boracay
BULABOG BEACH, BORACAY
ACTIVITIES
From November to April, the other

side of Boracay comes to life with
kiteboarders and windsurfers.
During low season from May to
October, sunrise watchers and
water sports enthusiasts come in
droves to hype up the still waters.
SMART TIPS
Youll find the price for water sports
cheaper here compared to White
Beach.
ADMISSION PHP100 (Terminal

Fee) + PHP75 (Environmental Fee)
HOW Via Boracay Island
Transfers
OR
City centre (1.5-2 hrs van/bus)
Caticlan Jetty
Caticlan Jetty (15-20 mins boat)
Cagban Port
Cagban Port Jetty (10-
20 minstricycle) Bulabog
Beach
CONTACT
+63 36 2883689
boracay
CLIFF DIVING
Reserve half a day for Ariels
Point, which offers five cliff
diving platforms 3 to 15 metres
above the water. The excursion
package includes buffet meals
and unlimited use of water sports
facilities, so you can focus on one
thing: fun, fun fun!
ADMISSION PHP2,000
including lunch, snack, return boat
transfers and amenities
HOW Ariels House,
Boracay Station 1 (30-40 mins
Bangka) Ariels Point
CONTACT
Ariels Point
www.arielspoint.com
ACTIVITIES
ACTIVITIES
SMART TIPS
Go to Station 2 and 3 for party
atmosphere or Station 1 for peace
and quiet.
28
Kiteboarders unite at Bulabog Beach

Mark Alvin Real
SMART TIPS
Reserve your slot at least a day
in advance at Boracay Beach
Club, as Ariels Point can only
accommodate a limited number of
visitors daily.
PHguide14.indd 28
4/24/14 10:20 AM
KALIBO
ISLAND HOPPING
Huts at Crystal Cove Low Sai Hong
Let your friendly boatman take you

around for snorkelling or fish feeding
at Crocodile Island, swimming in the
caves of Crystal Cove or just lazing
about on Puka Beach. Alternatively,
walk the sea floor by helmet diving
no need to hold your breath! End
the day with a sunset cruise on
Boracays distinctive paraw (double
outrigger sailboat).
ADMISSION Island hopping
from PHP300 for boat ride,
depending on boat size and
number of passengers. Additional
fees apply for activities and gear
hire.
HOW Contact tour

operators or approach boatmen on
White Beach
ACTIVITIES
CONTACT
+63 36 2883689
boracay
SMART TIPS
Allot three to four hours for island
hopping and an hour for the
sunset cruise.
BUY
& EAT
try a new variant every time. Jonahs

is a great choice on the tropical
island, with the Banana Choco
Peanut being the most popular.
PIA
Yes, you can wear a pineapple!
Weaving the fibre from pineapple
leaves is a unique Kalibo specialty
using time-honored processes.
Pia is sheer and stiff, making it an
interesting material for formal wear
such as Barong Tagalog, and haute
couture.
HANDICRAFTS
There are several types of
handicrafts such as bags and
jewelleries made from abaca or
shells. These make wonderful
alternatives to traditional
pasalubong (gift/souvenir that you
bring back home from travelling)
that are usually food-related.
Chicken Binakol
CHICKEN BINAKOL
This is not your ordinary bowl of
chicken soup as the delicious
chicken is cooked in coconut juice
and accompanied by chunks of
young coconut flesh.
FRUIT SHAKES
Under the hot sun, theres nothing
as refreshing as the Boracays
famous fruit shakes. Mangoes may
be the fruit of choice, but the various
combinations will give you a reason to
Earn
oints
BIG Pree
for f .
flightsnow!
HOW TO GET TO KALIBO
From
Frequency
Fare From
Manila
Kuala Lumpur
Seoul
Busan
48x Weekly PHP 590

4x Weekly MYR 182
2x Daily KRW 32,600
2x Weekly KRW 24,600
p
Sign u
CHORI BURGER
Two halves of buns are grilled
in such a way that the outside
is slightly crisp, but the inside
stays fluffy and warm. The buns
balance out the strong flavor of
chorizo (pork sausage) and the
accompanying sauce to create one
great summer grub!
BEYOND THIS GUIDE

Picture Perfect Boracay
RECOMMENDED
STAYS
La Carmela de Boracay Resort

Hotel
Fairways & Bluewater Newcoast
Patio Pacific Boracay
Le Soleil De Boracay
Shangri-Las Boracay Resort & Spa
BOOK NOW
29
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SM Mall of Asia is popular amongst locals and visitors
THE WORLDS BIGGEST MALLS
If you cant buy Filipiniana in your size,

doll-sized is still as stunning! Adam Lee
LOCO OVER LOCAL
If youve seen Filipino formal wear, youve probably wondered

how these unique fabrics lend an airy, translucent look to any
garment. The stiff sinamay woven from abaca (a relative of
the banana plant) is now popular in millinery, while pia from
pineapple leaves is used in Filipiniana attire such as Barong
Tagalog for men and terno for women, often embroidered and
embellished with beads. Visit Pia Village or the Dela Cruz
House of Pia in Kalibo to observe the pia weaving process,
unchanged over the centuries. Native fibers are mainly
handmade, so expect to pay more for them than machinemade fabrics.
The Philippines exports high quality wood and rattan
furniture, mainly from Cebu, Metro Manila and Pampanga,
and Filipino furniture designers such as Kenneth Cobonpue
are making waves internationally for their inventive creations.
Basketry and wood carvings are also common nationwide.
An archipelago surrounded by water inevitably abounds
with shells, which are transformed into fashion and home
accessories. Mother-of-pearl and capiz (windowpane oyster)
products are fairly common in Filipino homes, and Cebu is
regarded as a hub for shellcraft. Youll go crazy over pearls in
Palawan and the southern islands because of the rock-bottom
prices. Coras and Delma in Puerto Princesa are famous for
the more valuable but exceptionally beautiful South Sea pearls
favored by jewelers.
30
Metro Manila is filled with malls, perfect for

escaping the tropical heat. SM Mall of Asia,
SM City North EDSA and SM Megamall are
among the worlds largest malls and ideal
for scoping out the range of Filipino and
international brands. For mall lovers, Ayala
Center Makati, Ortigas Center, and Bonifacio
Global City are shopping meccas and great
for chilling out.
SM and Robinsons malls are present in
every urbanized area in the country, each
with a department store and supermarket,
as well as local retail chains such as Bench,
Penshoppe, Kamiseta, Bayo and Folded &
Hung. Also in the malls, Team Manila offers
graphic tees with Filipino themes rendered
in hip contemporary designs, while Islands
Souvenirs is known for its bright destinationcentric t-shirts.
If youre short on time, Kultura at SM malls
makes it convenient to shop for souvenirs
from graphic tees and Filipiniana to packed
food and home decor. Outside of the malls,
Silahis and Balikbayan Handicrafts, both of
which have standalone branches around
Metro Manila, have a wide product range for
locally made crafts.
Theres no shortage of places for good
deals in the Philippines, so go ahead,
bargain in the market and unleash the mall
shopaholic in you. Just make sure theres
room left in your luggage!
MAJOR SHOPPING CENTERS
Bonifacio Global City is a good bet for international brands
CHEAP THRILLS
For pearls as well as inexpensive

branded clothes, Greenhills
Shopping Center in Metro Manila
carries export overruns, but there
are plenty of counterfeit clothes
and bags as well, with some
designer replicas that look like the
genuine article. Similar tiangge
(flea market) setups can be found
at Market! Market!, the Divisoria area in Manila and Tabo
sa Banay in Cebu. Although some of the goods are locally
made, most are sourced from Hong Kong, China, Thailand
and Korea, especially the cheap trendy fashions. Discounts
are given for bulk purchases, so make sure you buy more!
Many outlets around Metro Manila specialize in
second-hand clothes, bags and shoes, usually from Japan.
Referred to as ukay-ukay (literally, dig-digor simply
UK), these outlets sell items at a set price per piece, with
the older stocks selling at progressively cheaper prices.
Occasionally, vintage designer items find their way to these
stores. The American-era mountain city of Baguio, six
hours north of the capital, is known for ukay-ukay, as well
as silver and wood carvings.
Markets allow you to see daily life at its simplest and to
haggle for the lowest prices. Cebus Taboan Public Market,
renowned for its dried fish, is great for soaking up the
atmosphere. In Manila, the chaos of Divisoria and Quiapo
may be too much for some, especially during the holiday
season, but there are some dirt-cheap items off the street
and even at shopping centers. Just be careful not to flaunt
your valuables.
If theres no time for the market, dont worry. Major
supermarkets have a section dedicated to Filipino snacks
and food products from the provinces. Traditional pastries
and sweets may not keep long without refrigeration, so dried
fruit and packaged snacks are safe bets. Fruit wines and
local liquor also make unique gifts for people back home.
METRO MANILA (SELECTED)

Alabang
Festival Supermall
Alabang Town Center
Ayala Center Makati
Greenbelt
The Landmark
Glorietta
Bonifacio Global City
Bonifacio High Street
Market! Market!
SM Aura Premier
Manila
Robinsons Place Manila
Tutuban Center & Night Market
168 Shopping Mall
Ortigas Center
Robinsons Galleria
SM Megamall
Shangri-La Mall
Pasay City
SM Mall of Asia
Quezon City
SM City North EDSA
Trinoma
Tiangge
Greenhills Shopping Center
Tiendesitas
St Francis Square
CEBU
Ayala Center
Gaisano
J Centre Mall
Park Mall
Robinsons
SM City
PUERTO PRINCESA
NCCC Mall
Robinsons Place
TAGBILARAN
Bohol Quality Mall
Island City Mall
KALIBO
Gaisano
From traditional tablea for hot

chocolate
To artisan chocolates made from local

cocoa
LEGEND
low-end
mid-range
high-end
31
DO
&
E
SE
Underground River George Tapan
PUERTO
PRINCESA
Western Palawans most important city is like a beautiful
princess who is both neat and pleasant, yet with a striking
penchant for adventure. The City in the Forest is hailed
as the cleanest city in the country and it is also a jump-off
point to Philippines most pristine beaches and glorious
natural wonders.
UNDERGROUND RIVER
The longest underground river
in the world definitely lives up to
its status as a UNESCO World
Heritage site with its crystal
clear waters and amazing cave
formations.
ADMISSION PHP100 Local
Adult, PHP75 Local Child,
PHP150 Foreign Adult, PHP100
Foreign Child
City centre (2 hrs
HOW
car) Sabang Jetty
CONTACT
Underground River Booking Office
+63 48 7230904
www.puerto-undergroundriver.com
ACTIVITIES
32
SMART TIP!
Remember to secure a permit
at least a month ahead. If youre
joining a tour, the handler will take
care of it for you.
IMMACULATE
CONCEPTION CATHEDRAL
The cathedral may not be huge,
but it has its own charm with
elegant arches and spires which
reflect its gothic influences.
ADMISSION Free
HOW
City centre (30 mins
car) Immaculate Conception
Cathedral
CONTACT
Department of Tourism Region IV
+63 49 5080731 to 34
puerto-princesa
ACTIVITIES
SMART TIP!
Dont forget to catch the annual
feast if you happened to be in
town between November 28 and
December 8.
Immaculate Conception Cathedral
PUERTO PRINCESA
UGONG ROCK
HONDA BAY
The bay is meant for summer fun
and island hopping! Spend the
whole day basking in the sun,
swimming and snorkeling in the
crystalline waters, and simply
enjoying the glorious weather.
From PHP1,300
ADMISSION
for 6 pax for 3 islands. PHP40
environmental fee. PHP3 terminal fee.
Islands have entrance fees ranging
from PHP75 to PHP150.
City centre (1 hr
HOW
car) Honda Bay Port
CONTACT
+63 49 5080731 to 34
puerto-princesa
ACTIVITIES
A stones throw away from the

Underground River is Ugong
Rock, a place where even couch
potatoes can have a try at climbing,
spelunking and ziplining in great
surroundings.
IWAHIG PENAL COLONY
ADMISSION PHP200 rock

climbing, PHP200 caving,
PHP250 zip lining, PHP200
rappelling
A unique experience to see for

yourself how inmates spend their
days at the penal colony, working in
the farm and taking on shopkeeper
duties at the souvenir store.
City centre (1.5 hrs

HOW
car) Ugong Rock
ADMISSION Free
CONTACT
+63 49 5080731 to 34
puerto-princesa
ACTIVITIES
HOW
City centre (45
mins car) Iwahig Prison and
Penal Farm
CONTACT
Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm
+63 48 4332968
ACTIVITIES
SMART TIP!
Wear your trekking gears and
prepare to get dirty!
SMART TIP!
Theres also a riverside resort and
swimming area nearby.
IONS
S
R
U
EXC
TUBBATAHA
An enchanting underwater heaven
with around 600 species of tropical
fishes, 50% of the worlds coral
species as well as 14 species of
sharks. For divers, its where their
wet dreams come true.
ADMISSION Varies according to
liveaboard operator
HOW
City centre
(10 mins car) Puerto Princesa
Pier (10 hrs boat) Tubbataha
ACTIVITIES
CONTACT
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
+63 48 4345759
tubbatahareef.org
SMART TIP!
The reefs are only accessible via
liveaboard boats. Advance booking
is essential.
33
PUERTO PRINCESA
EL NIDO
The moment you set your eyes on
the mighty limestone cliffs, dreamy
lagoons and pristine beaches, you will
think that youre in paradise. Close
enough, because El Nido is everything
a tropical getaway should be.
ADMISSION PHP200
(Eco-Tourism Development Fee for
10 days)
HOW City centre (6 hrs
bus) El Nido
CONTACT
+63 49 5080731 to 34
puerto-princesa
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
El Nido is named after
the swiftlets whose
edible nests are
harvested from the
limestone cliffs to
be made into soup.
Dan Moore
BUY
& EAT
PEARLS
South Sea, anyone? Palawans
pearls are known as Philippines
finest as they are products of rich
marine life and responsible pearl
farming methods.
CASHEW
Palawan is known for its cashew
nut and boy, do they have loads
of varieties here! Choose from the
regular fried and roasted cashews
to house specialties such as
pastillas (soft milk candy) and
barquillos (crispy biscuit roll).
HOPIA
Hopia is a type of flaky pastry
with various filling. If hopia baboy
(pork), monggo (mung bean) and
ube (purple yam) are not enough
to satiate your appetite, try hopia
haba-haba (elongated hopia).
BEYOND THIS GUIDE

Palawan: The Last Frontier
Paradise Found
Seafood, however you like itAdam Lee
SEAFOOD
Its a sin to go to Puerto Princesa
and not have seafood. Feast on
crispy prawns, clam soup, steamed
fish and other bounty from the sea
served on your table!
TAMILOK
Dont let its nickname wood worm
turn you off as tamilok is actually
a kind of mollusc usually eaten the
kinilaw way: raw with vinegar-based
sauce. Pssst, it is said to have a
better effect than Viagra for men!
HOW TO GET TO PUERTO PRINCESA
34
Earn
oints
BIG Pree
for f .
flightsnow!
RECOMMENDED
STAYS
Deep Forest Garden Resort

Hotel Centro
Sunlight Guest Hotel
Palawan Village Hotel
Blue Lagoon Inn & Suites
p
Sign u
From
Frequency
Manila
2x Daily PHP 590
CROCODILE SISIG
When you see a crocodile, do
you think how does that scary
looking bugger taste like? Find
out yourself with this dish where
crocodile meat from farm-bred
crocs is served sizzling with
calamansi and chili pepper
seasonings.
Fare From
BOOK NOW
DO
&
E
SE
Panglaos beaches are world-class
TAGBILARAN
The island province of Bohol has it all, and Tagbilaran is where your journey begins. A
tropical paradise with lovely white sand beaches, delightful marine life, centuries-old
churches, unusual geographical formations, and even stranger fauna, Bohol offers a simple
but comfortable lifestyle to travellers who want to get away from the big city.
PANGLAO ISLAND BEACHES

A short ride away from Tagbilaran,
the island of Panglao is famous for
its beaches. Alona Beach and its
dive shops, restaurants and bars
draw the most visitors, but further
out, there are quiet beaches that are
just as beautiful. Dumaluan Beach
is the home of the exclusive Bohol
Beach Club, whilst Doljo Beach
has even been named one of the
Worlds Best Secret Beaches by
Travel+Leisure.
ADMISSION Free
HOW Tagbilaran Airport
(30 mins taxi) Panglao Island
CONTACT
DOT Bohol
+63 907 79910889
tourism.bohol.gov.ph
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
According to the Panglao Marine
Biodiversity Project, the waters off
Panglao boast more mollusc species
than the Mediterranean Sea, which
has an area 20,000 times larger.
PHILIPPINE TARSIER AND

WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
Tarsiers are insect-eating treejumpers who can turn their heads
180 degrees. Be careful as they
commit suicide when traumatized
by touch and noise.
Go googly-eyed with one of the

worlds smallest primates in its
natural habitatthe Philippine
tarsier. If these nocturnal creatures
happen to be awake, you might
find yourself eye to eye with this
fascinating animal.
ADMISSION PHP50
HOW Tagbilaran (20
mins taxi/tour transport/bus)
Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife
Sanctuary
CONTACT
Philippine Tarsier Foundation, Inc.
+63 927 5412290
www.tarsierfoundation.org
Philippine tarsier
35
TAGBILARAN
The unique conical karst formations

of the Chocolate Hills Febry Fawzi
CHOCOLATE HILLS
ADVENTURE PARK
Climb up to the viewing deck to see
the famous Chocolate Hills, over
1,000 natural grass-covered hills
that turn chocolate brown during the
hot summer months. If youre up
for it, test your balance on the tree
top rope course, bike zip and the
canopy walks.
ADMISSION PHP60
HOW Tagbilaran (1 hr
taxi/tour transport) Chocolate
Hills Adventure Park
CONTACT
Chocolate Hills Adventure Park
+63 932 667 7098
www.facebook.com/pages/
Chocolate-Hills-AdventurePark/439270182852552
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
According to local legend, the
Chocolate Hills were formed from
rubble left after two giants quarrelled
and threw large rocks each other.
LOBOC RIVER CRUISE

Whats more pleasant than a simple
hour-long cruise on a floating
restaurant, surrounded by lush
coconut palms? Enjoy the local
dances and the Filipino cuisine
onboard as you float through the
twisting green river.
ACTIVITIES
LOCAL INSIGHTS
Loboc is known as Bohols Music
Capital. The Loboc Childrens Choir
is famous for winning local and
international competitions.
TARSIER BOTANIKA
ADMISSION PHP450
There are no tarsiers here, but this

lovely garden is a world of its own.
Make sure to drop by the attached
gallery, which houses an impressive
art collection.
HOW
Tagbilaran (40 mins
taxi/tour transport) Loboc town
proper
ADMISSION PHP350
(consumable at Tarsier Paprika
restaurant)
CONTACT
DOT Bohol
+63 907 79910889
HOW Tagbilaran (30 mins

taxi) Tarsier Botanika
Loboc River Cruise
CONTACT
Tarsier Botanika
+63 38 416095
tarsierbotanika.com
ACTIVITIES
SMART TIP
Tarsier Botanika Alona, five
minutes away, has live bands on
weekends and occasional buffet
nights with performances of
Philippine dances.
36
IONS
S
R
U
EXC
TAGBILARAN
HOW Alona Beach (1 hr

bangka) Pamilacan Island
CONTACT
DOT Bohol
+63 907 7991088
DOLPHIN AND WHALE

WATCHING
Balicasag Island is surrounded by

underwater wonders
ACTIVITIES
Dolphins, whales and whale sharks

can be seen in Bohol, with reformed
hunters of these creatures as your
spotters and guides committed to
protecting the species.
ADMISSION From PHP1,000 to
PHP4,000, depending on number
of pax
SMART TIP
Dolphin sightings occur all year
round but the summer season
between March and May offers
higher chances to see a variety of
marine life.
BALICASAG SNORKELLING
A dozen dive sites dot the waters off
Bohol and its surrounding islands of
Pamilacan, Balicasag and Cabilao,
with a variety of underwater creatures
ranging from nudibranches to
whales. Several dive centres offer
a full range of courses. Not ready
for scuba diving? Island hopping
packages include snorkelling at
Balicasags marine sanctuary.
Dolphins in the wild
PEANUT KISSES
Crunchy cookies made of peanut
and egg white, shaped like the
Chocolate Hills and sealed in
distinctive trapezoid packs.
a charcoal oven, just like how they

were made over 100 years ago.
KALAMAY
Sticky and sweet confection of
sticky rice, sugar and coconut
milk in dried coconut shells sealed
with a red crepe paper ribbon.
The towns of Jagna and Albur
are known for these homemade
delicacies.
BROAS
Osangs in Baclayon town
is famous for freshly baked
ladyfingers, best with coffee, tea
or hot chocolate. Today, they are
still mixed by hand and baked in
ADMISSION Varies, depending

on tour operator and number of pax
Alona Beach (40
HOW
mins bangka) Balicasag Island
CONTACT
DOT Bohol
+63 907 79910889
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
Divers can also go on a pilgrimage to
the underwater grottos of the Virgin
Mary and Infant Jesus at the Bien
Unido Double Barrier Reef Marine
Park, installed to deter dynamite
fishing.
BUY
& EAT
RECOMMENDED
STAYS
The Bellevue Resort

Vanilla Sky Resort
Pair broas with a hot drink for merienda
(snack time)
Earn
oints
BIG Pree
for f .
flightsnow!
HOW TO GET TO TAGBILARAN
From
Frequency
Fare From
Manila
3x Daily
PHP 690
Cliffside Resort
Bodos Bamboo Bar Resort
Marquis Sunrise Sunset Residential
Cottages
p
Sign u
BOOK NOW
Design Your
Philippines Itinerary
Create your own itinerary based on your travel style and interests!
Fly into Manila or Kalibo, then fly to another island to experience the diversity of the archipelago.
MANILA
The Sprawling Capital
Tour of Intramuros
Old Manilas warm, earthy welcome will surprise
you in its colonial buildings and churches.
DAY 1
Excursion to Tagaytay, Corregidor or Villa Escudero

Get out of the metropolis for an encounter with
nature and history.
DAY 2
Shopping
Grab bargains and unique souvenirs whilst
exploring some of the worlds largest malls.
DAY 3
t
r
a
t
S
KALIBO
Party Central
DAYS 1&2
Boracay Island
Party the night away and laze on the fine
white sands of one of the worlds top beaches.
Island hopping
Cliff diving, snorkelling and sailing into
the sunset.
DAY 3
38
CEBU
A Historical Treasure
City tour
Discover the colonial heritage and religious
fervor of the Queen City of the South.
DAY 1
Excursion to Oslob
Your chance to swim with whale sharks in cerulean waters.
DAY 2
Bantayan & Malapascua
A simple life on a pristine white beach and
the rare sighting of thresher sharks await you.
or DAYS 2&3
TAGBILARAN
Unique Landscapes & Animals
DAY 1
Island tour
Bohols unusual Chocolate Hills and tarsiers
will leap before your eyes!
Panglao Island, Balicasag Island and Dolphin Watching
Bohols islands and beaches call out to you.
DAYS 2&3
PUERTO PRINCESA
Islands, Islands, Islands
DAY 1
DAYS 2&3
Sabang & Underground River

Head out on a boat through dark caves
or zoom up in the air on a zip line.
El Nido
Go before the rest of the world
discovers these unspoilt islands.
39
IAL
SPEC III
URE
T
A
E
F
THE A TO Z OF
FILIPINO FOOD
Filipino cuisine has been hailed as the next big thing in Asian cuisine. Spiciness and heat that are norms in the
food of neighbouring countries are not featured here. Instead, it is a blend of Eastern and Western flavors in perfect
harmonythe original Asian fusion. Here are some must-eats to start you off on a gastronomical journey in the
Philippines! Compiled by Ari Fajar
DOBO
This marinated chicken

(or pork) suits the
Western palates well while
maintaining a distinctive Asian
flavor, mainly from the use of
soy sauce.
Where to get it: Adobo
Connection (Dela Rosa Street,
Makati), Adobo To (General
Delgado Street, Pasig City)
Other appetising As: Arroz
Caldo (Spanish-influenced rice
porridge), Afritada (tomatobased chicken stew), Asado
(meat in sweet sauce)
ALUT
Dare to taste a developing

duck embryo, eaten
straight from its egg shell?
Where to get it: Municipality of
Pateros, Metro Manila
Other blissful
Bs: Bagoong
(fermented fish
condiment),
Barbecue
(skewered pork), Bistek
Tagalog (Pinoy-style beef steak,
pictured right), Bopis (sauted
beef heart and lung), Bulalo (beef
shanks and marrow bones)
INUGUAN
Talk about making the most out of something! Dinuguan is a dish

that makes full use of a pig, from the meat to blood and innards.
Where to get it: Kanin Club (UP-Ayala Land

TechnoHub, Quezon City), Banangs (E. Rodriguez
Avenue, Quezon City)
Other delicious Ds: Daing na Bangus (fried milkfish,
pictured right), Dinengdeng (sour soup)
Fish Balls and other street food on sticks
ISH BALLS
A favourite street snack

is the skewered deepfried fish ball made from
cuttlefish, best with sweet
and sour sauce.
Where to get it: Street carts
of Manila
Other flavorful Fs: Filipino
Spaghetti, Fried Chicken
40
HICHARON
This salty and puffy pork

rind cracker dipped in
vinegar is guaranteed to make
you fall in love at the first bite!
Where to get it: Chilens Chicharon,
Chicharitos, Carcar Chicharon
Other celestial Cs: Camaron
Rebosado (Filipino-style
tempura), Chicken Pastel
(casserole), Crispy Pata (deep
fried pork legs), Champorrado
(sweet rice porridge)
NSALADANG TALONG
Ensaladang Talong is an easy

and simple vegetable dish
consisting of eggplants, tomatoes
and onions.
Where to get it: Inasal Chicken
Bacolod (SM City Manila, Manila)
Other enticing Es: Ensaladang
Pako (wild fern salad), Embutido
(meatloaf), Escabeche (sweet
and sour dish)
INATAAN
Refers to the many type of

food cooked with gata
aka coconut milk, including
savory chicken and sweet sticky
rice balls.
Where to get it: Johnnys (A.
Rodriguez Avenue, Pasig City),
Ka Lui (Rizal Avenue, Puerto
Princesa)
Other glorious Gs: Giniling (ground
pork or beef), Galunggong (fish)
NASAL NA MANOK
After being marinated with lime,

pepper, vinegar and annatto, the
grilled chicken goes through a sour
dipping sauce of vinegar, shallot,
garlic, ginger and chili.
Where to get it: Bacolod, JTs
Manukan
ALO-HALO
Translated as mix-mix,
this is a bowl of shaved ice,
jelly, diced fruits, sweet beans
with evaporated milksimply
heavenly on a hot day!
Where to get it: Milky Way, Chic
Boy, Razons, Kabigtings
Other heavenly Hs: Halabos
na Hipon (stir-fried shrimps),
Hamonado (pork in pineapple),
Hopia (bean pastry)
ONGGANISA
Just the sight of the linked

garlicky and peppery
sausages will make any Filipino
drool, and can you blame them?
Where to get it: Vigan, Lucban
Other luscious
Ls: Lechon
(spit-roast
pig, pictured
right), Lumpia
(spring roll)
TAP
Crumbly and sweet, this

pastry is perfect with your
afternoon tea.
Where to get it: Shamrock
(Honorias Paras Building,
Cebu City), Magic Melt
(Sabellano Street, Cebu City)
Other outstanding Os: Okoy
(shrimp fritters)
Other inviting Is: Inihaw na liempo

(pork belly dish), Isaw (barbecued
chicken intestines)
Inasal na Manok Adam Lee
OLLIBEE
If youre a Filipino, then it is

almost certain that you grew
up with burgers, spaghetti and
Chickenjoy from this well-loved
fast food chain.
Where to get it: All over the
Philippines!
ECHADO
Mechados beef chunks

and vegetable in thick
gravy is a favorite comfort food.
Where to get it: Soledad
(Aguirre Street, Paranaque
City), Fely Js Kitchen
(Greenbelt 5, Makati City)
Other mouthwatering Ms:
Menudo (pork stew), Morcon
(rolled beef)
Pancit Palabok
ALDERETA
The slightly gamey flavor

of goat meat mixes well
with the spices in Kalderetas
creamy tomato-based gravy.
Where to get it: Kainan Sa Au
Gusto (United Street, Pasig
City), Serye (E. Rodriguez Jr.
Avenue, Quezon City)
Other kingly Ks: Kinunot
(shredded stingray or baby
shark), Kare-kare (meat stew)
ILAGANG BAKA
Beef, potatoes and

cabbage simmered till
tender to make a clear soup that
will warm up your belly.
Where to get it: Kamay Kainan
(West Avenue, Quezon City),
Bakahan at Manukan (Roxas
Boulevard, Metrowalk, Quezon
Avenue)
Other nectarous Ns: Natong
(taro leaves dish)
ANCIT
Among the most common noodle dish in the Philippines are the
popular Pancit Bihon Guisado and varieties such as Pancit Canton
(chow mein), Pancit Malabon (with seafood topping) and Pancit Palabok
(pork rind, smoked fish flakes and hard-boiled eggs).
Where to get it: Aling Normas (Yangco Street, Navotas City), Ninangs
(Visayas Avenue, Quezon City)
Other palatable Ps: Palitaw (sweet rice cake), Piaya (sugar-filled flat
unleavened bread), Pinakbet (mixed vegetables in shrimp sauce),
Puto (steamed rice cake)
41
UESO DE BOLA
Edam cheese is known

as queso de bola in the
Philippines and a necessity
during Christmas dinners.
Where: Dining tables on
Christmas Eve
Other quality Qs: Banana Q
(deep fried banana), Camote Q
(deep fried sweet potato)
UBA
The fun-loving Filipinos

love their drinks, whether
they are the modern ones or
the traditional ones like Tuba,
the bittersweet palm wine.
ELLENO
The Spanish word

rellenar means to stuff
and in Filipino cuisine, it refers
to stuffed milkfish (Relyenong
Bangus), stuffed chicken
(Relyenong Manok) or stuffed
crab (Relyenong Alimasag)
amongst many others.
Where to get it: Romulo Caf (Scout
Tuason Corner, Quezon City), Caf
Via Mare (Landmark, Manila)
Other redolent Rs: Rosquillos
(ring-shaped cookies)
Ube Halaya
INIGANG
Sinigang has that

appetizingly sour brothy
goodness reminiscent of Asian
tamarind-based soups, minus
the heat. Fish sauce is a must.
Where to get it: Antonios
(Barangay Neogan, Tagaytay
City), Sentro 1771 (Greenbelt
Dr., Makati)
Other scrumptious Ss: Sisig
(chopped pigs ears and
snout), Sinanglay (tilapia in
coconut milk), Sinanglaw (beef
innards soup)
Valenciana Paella
Where to get it: Cebu

Other toothsome Ts: Tapa
(cured beef), Tuyo (dried fish),
Tinola (chicken soup), Tapuy
(rice wine)
ANSOY AT KAMATIS
All you need is

chopped kamatis
(tomato) and wansoy
(coriander), mixed together to
make a great side for any kind
of meat dish.
Where to get it: Make your
own!
Other wonderful Ws: Wansoy
Chicken (coriander chicken)
O 46 BISTRO FILIPINO
This is the place to go for

authentic Filipino food
although this establishment
also offers Spanish fare.
Where to get it: Salcedo
Village, Makati
42
BE HALAYA
Paste made from boiling

purple yam together with
milk and sugar can be made
into various desserts and is an
integral part of Halo-halo.
Where to get it: Good
Shepherd Convent, Baguio
Other unique Us: Ube
Macapuno (purple yam cake)
EMA BALLS
From children to adults,

everybody loves this
custard candy made from egg
yolks and condensed milk.
Where to get it: Sugarhouse
(Rockwell Center, Makati)
ALENCIANA PAELLA
Described as a one-pan
peasants rice dish from
Valencia, the Filipino version
with seafood is the closest to
heart for many Filipinos.
Where to get it: Las Paellas
(Greenhills Malls, Manila)
UBUCHON
The place to go to for

everything lechon (spitroast pig) related. What keeps
the customers coming is the
old-school preparation and the
fact that they dont add MSG.
Where to get it: Banilad Town
Center, Mactan Domestic
Airport
WHERE TO EAT
METRO MANILA
BEYOND METRO MANILA
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City

2nds Wumaco Building,
Bonifacio High Street
Tagaytay City, Cavite

Antonios Barangay Neogan
Luksuhin-Mangas Road, Alfonso
Abe Serendra Plaza
Bag of Beans Aguinaldo

Highway, Mendez Crossing West
Aracama The Fort

Entertainment Center
Champtre Net One Center Bldg
rale! The Fort Strip
Sentro 1771 Serendra
The Goose Station W Tower
Greenbelt, Makati City
Felix Greenbelt 5
Kabila Greenbelt 4
Lusso Greenbelt 5
NamNam Greenbelt 2
Peoples Palace Greenbelt 3
Elsewhere in the Metro
Aristocrat San Andres Street,
Malate, Manila
Caf Juanita West Capitol Drive,
Pasig
Milky Way MilkyWay Building,
Arnaiz Avenue, Makati
Vikings SM Mall of Asia, various
branches
HALAL SUGGESTIONS
Bangali Halal Restaurant
P. Ocampo Street, Palanan,
Makati City
Behrouz Persian Cuisine
Scout Tuazon, Tomas Morato,
Quezon City
Hosseins Serendra Fort
Bonifacio, Taguig City
Kashmir Festejo Building,
Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City
Carlos Pizza & Italian

Restaurant One Destination,
Aguinaldo Highway
LZM Restaurant
Cavite Magallanes Square,
Maharlika East
Leslies Restaurant
Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway
Bohol
Cion Virge Caf & Restaurant
Airport Compound, Airport
Road, Tagbilaran City
Gerrys Grill Cineleisure Center
BQ Mall, Tagbilaran City
Cebu
Abaca Punta Engano Road, Lapu-Lapu
Casa Verde
Lim Tian Teng St/Asiatown IT
Park/Ayala Center Cebu
Chika-an sa Cebu Salinas Drive
Davids Steak & Seafood
Restaurant Cabahug Street
Feria Sergio Osmea Boulevard
corner Juan Luna Avenue
Golden Cowrie Various branches
in Cebu City, Mandaue City and
Lapu-Lapu City
Mooon Caf Various branches
in Cebu City, Mandaue City and
Lapu-Lapu City
The Pink House
Gorordo Avenue, Lahug
Tavolata
P. Remedios Street, Mandaue
JJ Seafood Restaurant
K of C Drive Celestino Gallares
Street, Tagbilaran City
Kalibo
Bread & Butter Bakeshop
Martyrs Street
Olegario Caf Clarin Street, near

Loay Plaza Poblacion Ubos,
Loay
Latte Coffee Caf

National Highway
Trudis Place Alona Beach,

Tawala, Panglao
Boracay
Aria Beachfront, DMall
Lemon Cafe DMall Square
Dos Mestizos Remedios Street,
Sitio Manggayad
Jonahs Fruit Shake & Snack Bar
Station 1 and Station 2
La Nenas Manokan
Regalado Street
Ramboys Lechonan & Restaurant
Toting Reyes Street
Saylo Cuisine
Quezon Avenue Extension
Puerto Princesa
Badjao Seafront Restaurant
A. Abueg Sr. Street
Bonas Chaolong Manalo Street
Kasbah Station 1, White Beach
Ka Lui Rizal Avenue
Real Coffee Station 2, White Beach
Kinabuchs Grill & Bar

Rizal Avenue
BEYOND THIS GUIDE

7 Life-Changing Filipino Desserts
43
EVENTS CALENDAR
JANUARY
Adam Lee
JANUARY 9
FEAST OF THE BLACK NAZARENE
Hundreds of thousands of devotees
pull and follow the image of Black
Nazarene in this full-day procession
Quiapo, Manila
Ati-Atihan Festival Adam Lee
AROUND END OF JANUARY

BORACAY INTERNATIONAL FUN
BOARD CUP
Competitors the world over compete
for the titles of windsurfing and
kiteboarding champions
Bulabog Beach, Boracay Island
FEBRUARY
Irvin Hanni
3RD SUNDAY OF JANUARY

SINULOG FESTIVAL
Cebus grandest celebration
commemorating the beginning of
Christianity in the Philippines with
a procession, street dances and a
fluvial parade
Cebu City, Cebu
CONCLUDES ON THE 3RD

SUNDAY OF JANUARY
ATI-ATIHAN FESTIVAL
ALL MONTH LONG

NATIONAL ARTS MONTH
Every February, the arts come to the
fore in the biggest series of cultural
events around the country
Nationwide
Fireworks manufacturers show off

their best pyrotechnics over Manila
Bay for their countrys honor
Mall of Asia, Pasay City
ALL MONTH LONG

PANAGBENGA
MARCH
The month-long flower festival brings

everything floral to the streets of the
countrys summer capital
Baguio City, Benguet
MARCH/APRIL
SENAKULO/HOLY WEEK RITUALS
A passion play depicting the last

days of Jesus Christ, presented
during the Holy Week
Nationwide
APRIL
ONE WEEKEND IN APRIL
ALIWAN FIESTA
4TH SUNDAY OF JANUARY

DINAGYANG FESTIVAL
44
A weekend of everything that flies,

including hot air balloons of all shapes
and sizes from all over the world
Clark Field, Pampanga
WEEKENDS BETWEEN
FEBRUARY AND MARCH
PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL
PYROMUSICAL COMPETITION
Revelers paint their bodies black,

wear colorful costumes, and dance to
honor Santo Nio, the Infant Jesus
Kalibo, Aklan
Some of the countrys best street

dancing happens in this Santo
Nio festival
Iloilo City, Iloilo
WEEKEND CLOSEST TO
FEBRUARY 14
PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL HOT
AIR BALLOON FIESTA
Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta
A grand dance-off between the

different cultural festivals.
Star City Complex, Pasay City,
Metro Manila
MAY
ALL MONTH LONG
FLORES DE MAYO/SANTACRUZAN
A month-long festival in honor of
the Virgin Mary, with a parade of
beauties representing religious
figures
Nationwide
3RD OR 4TH WEEKEND OF JULY

SANDUGO FESTIVAL
3RD WEEKEND OF OCTOBER

MASSKARA
The Blood Compact between the

Bohol chieftain and the Spanish
conquistador Miguel Lopez
Legazpi is commemorated with a
reenactment and street dancing.
Tagbilaran, Bohol
Masks with all grins imaginable

fill the streets of Bacolod as
performers dance to Latin beats
Bacolod, Negros Occidental
NOVEMBER
MAY 15
PAHIYAS FESTIVAL
NOVEMBER 23
HIGANTES FESTIVAL
Colorful rice wafers, fruits and

vegetables decorate the facade of
every house in this thanksgiving
festival for the farmers harvest
Lucban, Quezon
Large papier mache, resin and

fibreglass figures march in the
streets of Angono in honor of Saint
Clement
Angono, Rizal
NOVEMBER TO 1ST WEEK OF

JANUARY
CHRISTMAS SEASON
Jhune Ibanez
George Tapan
JUNE
ALL MONTH LONG
BARAGATAN FESTIVAL
Floats and street dancing as a way
of sharing the blessings of the years
crops
Puerto Princesa, Palawan
AUGUST
3RD WEEK OF AUGUST
KADAYAWAN SA DABAW
The longest Christmas season in

the world is celebrated with music,
lanterns and nativity displays
Nationwide
Davao celebrates nature, the harvest

and the diversity of its ethnic groups
with street dancings
Davao City, Davao
JUNE 24
PARADA NG LECHON
Roast pigs are dressed up and
paraded on the streets of Balayan
on St John the Baptists feast day
Balayan, Batangas
JULY
TWO WEEKS IN JULY
CINEMALAYA INDEPENDENT FILM
FESTIVAL
A rotating programme of some of the
best new local films of the year, with
English subtitles
Cultural Center of the Philippines
and other venues, Metro Manila
Melanjo Rulloda
DOT
LATE AUGUST
KAGAY-AN FESTIVAL
DECEMBER
Week-long celebration of the feast of

the citys patron saint, St Augustine
Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental
SATURDAY BEFORE
CHRISTMAS EVE
LIGLIGAN PARUL (GIANT LANTERN
FESTIVAL)
OCTOBER
MIDDLE OF OCTOBER
LANZONES FESTIVAL
The sweet and juicy lanzones takes
centerstage with street dances, a
beauty pageant and plenty of fruits
Camiguin, Northern Mindanao
A stunning competition of Christmas

lanterns six metres tall dancing to
carols
San Fernando, Pampanga
BEYOND THIS GUIDE

Follow The Star
45
S
A
N
I
P
I
L
PI ing List
Pack
Whatever you plan to do on the islands,

make sure you dont miss anything
important. Scan this list before zipping
your bags shut for your trip to Pilipinas
(Say pee-lee-PEE-nahs, the Philippines
in Filipino language).
Valid passport with relevant visas
Passport photocopy
Pen for filling out forms and cards
Electrical adaptor and battery chargers for

devices
Hat or cap
Sunscreen, sunglasses and lip balm
Quick-drying clothes to mix and match
Swimwear
Flip-flops

Towels and beach mats
Toiletries
Tissue and moist towelettes
DID YOU KNOW?

Pinoy (pee-NOY) is colloquial for
Filipino people, as well as adjective
for anything Filipino. PNoy (PEE-noy)
is the nickname of President
Benigno Aquino III.
46
Mosquito repellent
Camera and spare memory cards
Fold-up bag and zip-lock bag
Dry/waterproof bag for island hopping
Water bottle for trekking
Motion sickness pills
Spontaneity and lots of smiles
Name cards and postcards from home for

your new friends
Y
O
N
1
PI
0
1
R
O
I
V
A
H
BE
Filipinos are very accommodating and
adapt to visitors well. But in addition
to this warm, fun-loving character,
there are cultural differences that you
can anticipate.
Pinoys point.
Whether its with the forefinger, the lips, the direction of
the head or the eyes, or even the feet, Pinoys will point
using any body part that is comfortable for them to use.
Left hand or right hand?
Whether you are handing over items or eating, it doesnt
matter which hand you use. Unlike other Asians who
consider the left hand dirty and the right hand clean,
Pinoys consider either hand just the same as the other.
Pinoys get loud.
Whether its at home or in public spaces, Filipinos turn
up their speaking and singing voices, especially when
theyre in a group. This boisterous behavior is considered
expressive, but not rude.
Pinoys pry, with good intentions.
If people you just met start asking very personal
questions, like your age and civil status, dont get
bothered. Theyre just trying to be friendly.
1 Jenny Lynn 2 Grenouillet 3 Adam Lee 4 ChihAn Chen
Pinoys love guests.

Its not unusual to have a new acquaintance invite you
to his house and serve inordinate amounts of food and
carbonated beverages.
Pinoys are not very particular about personal space.
If youre in a queue or in public transport, dont be
surprised if the person next to you is uncomfortably
close. Its considered normal in certain situations. Expect
Filipinos to be more touchy than other Asian cultures.
Most Pinoys love the camera.
Although some people are camera-shy, most Pinoys will
get excited at the sight of a lens and happily smile for you.
TRAVEL TIPS AND PRECAUTIONS

Secure your belongings while

youre out and about. Avoid
wearing jewelry and displaying
valuables on the street. Keep
extra cash and important
documents in your hotel safety
deposit box.
Tipping is the norm. It is usual

to round to the nearest PHP10
for taxis and give between
PHP20 and PHP50 extra (under
10% of total bill) when eating out
at restaurants. Porters, guides
and salon staff also expect a tip.
Be careful with the authenticity

of branded items as bootleg
products are widely available.
Have loose change handy with

you at all times for taxis, buses
and trains. Also, when taking a
taxi, insist on using the meter
or negotiate the price before
boarding the cab.
Dont forget to hydrate and to

apply sunscreen.
For your convenience, bring your

own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

Bring an umbrella as protection

against the rain during the
rainy season between June
and November and as a parasol
during the drier months from
December to May.
It is not advisable to give money

to beggars, especially children.
However, feel free to buy products
to help locals earn their living.
47
GETTING AROUND
THE PHILIPPINES
Your guide to deciphering the various modes of transport on and between the islands.
TAXI
WHAT: Your regular white cab
HOW: Hail one from the street
or use taxi apps such as
GrabTaxi, MYTAXI.ph or Easy
Taxi in Metro Manila
WHERE: Cities
WATCH OUT FOR: Unless a price
has been set beforehand, make
sure the meter is running before
getting in
HOW MUCH: Flagdown rate of
PHP40, and PHP3.50 for every
300m. Airport taxi (yellow)
flagdown rate is PHP70, PHP4
every 400m thereafter.
JEEPNEY
WHAT: Diesel-chugging people
mover with regular routes
HOW: Hail one from a main
thoroughfare
WHERE: Cities and towns
WATCH OUT FOR:
Overspeeding drivers and
crime syndicates. Take care of
your valuables.
HOW MUCH: From PHP7
FERRY
WHAT: medium to large sea vessels
HOW: From the port/jetty
WHERE: Inter-island
WATCH OUT FOR: Take care of
your belongings
HOW MUCH: Varies, depending
on the route
48
TRAIN
WHAT: Light Rail Train (LRT) or
Metro Rail Transit (MRT)
HOW: From elevated stations
around the city
WHERE: Metro Manila
WATCH OUT FOR: Sardinepacked trains during rush hours
(7am-10am, 5pm-8pm)
HOW MUCH: PHP10-PHP15
BUS
WHAT: Aircon and non-aircon
buses with regular routes
HOW: Hail one from a main
thoroughfare
WHERE: Cities and between towns
WATCH OUT FOR: Sit where
other people can see you to
avoid falling prey to holduppers
HOW MUCH: From PHP10 to
the low thousands for a long
RORO (roll-on roll-off ferry) trip
BANGKA
WHAT: Outrigger boat
HOW: From the jetty
WHERE: Inter-island
WATCH OUT FOR: Ask for the
price before boarding
HOW MUCH: Varies, depending
on whether the fare is per
passenger or per boat, the
length of time of the hire, and
whether it is a regular route or
a special trip
HABAL-HABAL
WHAT: Motorcycle taxis
HOW: Arrange for pick-up from
a rider
WHERE: Wherever available
WATCH OUT FOR: Inclement
weather. Bring a raincoat
during the rainy season and
always wear a helmet
HOW MUCH: To be negotiated
with rider
KALESA
WHAT: Horse-drawn carriage
HOW: Approach a kutsero
(horse driver) on the street
WHERE: Manila
WATCH OUT FOR: Negotiate
with the kutsero on the price
before riding
HOW MUCH: From PHP300
PEDICAB
TRICYCLE
MOTORELA
WHAT: Pedicabpedalpowered sidecars. Tricycle
motorcycle sidecars.
Motorelatuktuk.
HOW: Hail from any road or
from a tricycle terminal
WHERE: Secondary streets
WATCH OUT FOR:
Overcharging, though fares are
set for fixed routes
HOW MUCH: Fare matrices
vary from area to area
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A
KOREA
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Busan
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Diver and whale shark, Oslob, CebuJay Kok

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Information in this guide is correct at

Cover image by Adam Lee

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San Agustin Church

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Fancy a ride on a horse-drawn carriage?

BEYOND THIS GUIDE

Whats in Metro Manila?

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Street artoutside Vinyl on Vinyl, The Collective

Manila Bay (CC BY) Abby Yao

In the heart of Makati CBD, the

ADMISSION Resident PHP225,

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Batad Rice TerracesOanh Nguyen Kim

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Spanish Lighthouse, Corregidor Island

AERA Memorial Museum, Villa Escudero

ADMISSION Day tour, inclusive

Centre, World War II Death March

LAS CASAS FILIPINAS

Serenaded by classic kundiman

CASHEW AND PILI TARTS

HOW TO GET TO MANILA

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Tune Hotel - Ermita, Manila

Since explorer Ferdinand

Cebus largest festival is centred on the

Conquer your fear of heights at Sky Experience Adventure! Adam Lee

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Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House decked

Take a walk through vintage

ADMISSION Casa Gorordo:

Cebu City centre

explorer Ferdinand Magellan

Cebu city centre

Bantayan Islands waters will

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One of Oslobs gentle giantsJay Kok

The magnificent underwater

Ready your beach towel, a good

Cebu city centre

Cebu North Bus

Colourful fashion accessoriesAdam Lee

Lechon CebuAdam Lee

Street food at LarsianAdam Lee

HOW TO GET TO CEBU

1x Daily KRW 27,600

Taboan Markets piles of

Tune Hotels - Cebu City,