3) Regions:

Locations with are Scuba or Wreck Diving Locations

1) Information

The Philippine is an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands. Your Philippine Holiday will be in the most diverse country in Asia with many different types of experiences available.

The sea is blue and clear around beautiful, remote tropical islands and legendary scuba diving spots.

The archipelago's best resource is the friendliness and laid-back attitude of the people.

The Philippines has some superb Hotels & luxury resorts. The country is good value, the food is delicious, and English is widely spoken. Tourism has yet to expand to the level of Thailand and other countries, so the Philippines is not yet featured in many of the main brochures, and therefore has not suffered from over development.

Climate
The Philippines is always warm with temperatures in the high eighties all year round. It enjoys a humid tropical climate cooled by sea breezes. The rainy season is between June and September and the dry season is between May and October. There is a slight risk of typhoons in the rainy season.

Philippine Standard Time
8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. 8 hours behind Pacidic time in the USA & Canada.

Ethnic Origin, Language & people
Cultural descendants of many Asian & European countries, including Polynesia, Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Portugal & Spain. The Philippine language is Tagalog and the Cebuanos have their own dialect. They have great respect for foreigners, which is apparent by their friendliness. English is the language of business.

Religion
Predominantly Roman Catholic.

Business Hours
Banks 9am to 3pm. Mon. to Fri. Most Department stores are open on Sundays and Holidays.

Communications
The international access code for the Philippines is +0063. The code for Cebu is 32, Manila is 02.

The major towns and cities are covered by the mobile networks of Smart & Globe and therfore probably compatible with Vodaphone & Orange. Check with your service provider.

Getting There
Manila is 14 hours flying time from the UK and as more people are discovering its charms, now more than a dozen different airlines airlines are serving the 3 main International gateways into the country. Click on airlines information for more details on International and domestic routes.

Getting Around
We will take care of all excursions and transfers for you as travel is often difficult if you don’t know your way around. Taxis are air conditioned.

The jeepney is the common form of transport. These are leftover jeeps from WW2 that have been modified and personalised, sadly now disappearing as the drivers and customers prefer the new Japanese air con ‘vans’ painted to look like jeepneys.

Internet cafes
These are freely available in large towns and some of the beach resorts. Broadband and Wi-Fi is available in many Hotel rooms in Manila & Cebu City.

Dress
Smart casual when out and about. You only have a 20 kgs baggage allowance, so you can travel light, let the Hotels take care of your laundry at very reasonable prices. We can arrange for 30 Kgs of baggage if you book your flights through us.

Bargain Shopping

Manila has plenty for shoppers with all the variety and quality of International names at a fraction of UK and USA prices.

'Must' visits are to the Air Conditioned Ayala Shopping Mall adjacent to the Marriott Hotel in Cebu City & the many Malls in Manila.

Huge savings compared to European shops can be made here. Designer Label clothes with familiar names include, Marks and Spencer, Levis, Giordano, Human, Guess, Rolex, Tag Heuer and others.

Numerous boutique shops in abundance with Ralph Lauren, Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Yves St.Laurent, Calvin Klein labels at various locations.

Other bargains include walk-in dental treatment (£5 ($10 for cleaning) and prescription spectacles.

A visit to the massage shop and beauty parlour is essential, the quality and price is unmatched in Europe or the USA. Our Tour Director can arrange a beauty and massage package at a superb salon.

Electricity
220 volts, UK appliances work here.

Visas & Passports
Make sure you have 6 months unexpired on your passport.You can stay 21 days in the Philippines without a visa. Extensions are freely available from the Immigration Dept. for a fee.

Airport Tax. You will need to pay 550 Pesos in cash (About £6 $11) when you leave the country. You will need to pay 200 Pesos in cash (£2 $4) departure tax for Domestic flights.

Food
Generally excellent, there are plenty of restaurants in Cebu City at value for money prices. Our Tour Guide will point you in the direction.
Sea food is abundant. Lobster, shrimps, crab, white fish and others are freely available and reasonably priced.

The Philippine cuisine is similar to Chinese style with a lot of meat and rice dishes.

American style fast food restaurants abound.

Money & Currency
The Philippine Peso is the local currency, credit cards are freely accepted. You can obtain cash from ATM Machines in Cebu City.

Health & Safety
It is a tropical country with all the usual diseases and we recommend that you seek advice from your GP. No vaccination certificates are required by travellers entering the Philippines unless arriving within six days from an area infected with yellow fever, typhus, small pox, plague or cholera.

For more details, please visit the The Department of Health website.

Crime & Poverty
Crime & Poverty usually go hand in hand and the usual precautions against pick-pockets and petty crime should be observed.

Please visit the Government FCO website if you require further information on safety issues

The Philippines is to scuba divers what Switzerland is to skiers, Hawaii to surfers and Nepal to mountaineers: is a place you must visit at least once, to get the real heart of the sport. The country is a veritable smorgasboard of world-class dive sites set in a lush tropical environment with all the trappings you could wish for. Statistics from the Philippine Department of Tourism indicate that divers visiting the Philippines return for an average of 10 trips each which speaks volume about the quality of the dive sites and the professionalism of the operators.

(Lifted from the book, “Action Asia Adventure Travel Guide to the Philippines”)

This is true, read: The centre of the centre by Kent Carpenter as to why the Philippines is the best scuba diving destination on the planet.

Popular WRECK DIVING Spots
From scuba dives in strong currents and the deep sea to ship wreck dives for history’s sunken glory, the Philippine archipelago offers plenty of unforgettable and rewarding dive experiences. There are close to 25 shipwreck dive sites in the country. Explore the sunken wreckage of century-old Spanish galleons and World War II vessels in Subic Bay, one of the best wreck diving sites in Asia, as well as the remarkable wrecks in Busuanga and Malapascua.

History's sunken glory in Subic Bay: Originally developed as a naval base by Spanish colonizers in 1885, Subic Bay became the largest US naval facility in the Far East. In 1991, it was transformed into a Freeport economic and tourism zone. Today Subic Bay hosts a formidable combination of wrecks, like the 19th century Spanish gunboat San Quintin, Japanese luxury liner Oryoku Maru, and the ex-USS New York. Complemented by a rain forest and white sand beach, Subic Bay has an international airport and tourism support facilities that include a marina, yacht club, hotels, shopping arcades, and food shops.

The main hotels in Metro Manila are located in:
MANILA(Bay Area)
MAKATI CITY
ORTIGAS
Quezon City

MANILA Attractions

• Intramuros/Fort Santiago
  
• Manila Cathedral/San Agustin Church
  
• Bay Walk
  
• Malacanang Palace
  
• American War Memorial
  
• 10 Golf Courses within Metro Manila
  
• 22 Museums
  
• 6 Casinos
  
• 8 Theatres
  
• World class Shopping Malls with designer names
  
• Pulsating nightlife

City and day tours available from here including:

Manila is a busy metropolis with a magnificent view of Manila Bay and its famed golden sunsets.

Manila's Golden Sunset

Right in the heart of Manila you will find the “Walled City”, Intramuros. Constructed in 1571 during the period of Spain’s colonization of the Philippines, it comprises of, European buildings and churches that have been replicated in different parts of the archipelago. Here, dungeons and old churches share space with art galleries, theatres and a nature park.

At the centre of Intramuros is the grand Manila Cathedral, the seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Manila. The site also of San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in Metro Manila and one of the four Philippine Baroque Churches inscribed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. At the northwestern tip is Fort Santiago, one of the oldest fortifications of Intramuros. Built through Filipino forced labor, it now houses a lush park with flowering trees, homing pigeons, and rides aboard horse-drawn carriages.

Geography
Manila is home to Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the highest chief executive of the country and one of the most historic structures in the Philippines, the National Museum of the Philippines, the official repository and guardian of the Philippine cultural, historical and natural heritage. Along the northern bank of the historic Pasig river is Chinatown, a symbol of the long history of Chinese presence in the Philippines long antedating the arrival of the Spaniards. Today it is an important trade and business centre, and a primary bargain shopping destination.

The City of Manila is located on the west coast of the Philippine island of Luzon and surrounded by fertile plains. The city straddles at the delta of the Pasig river, a short navigable stream that connects the fresh water lake of Laguna de Bay with Manila Bay and the South China Sea.

Languages & dialects spoken
Literacy in Manila is very high, Filipino (Tagalog) and English are the main languages spoken.

The Fort Santiago, built by the Spanish, many Filipinos were imprisoned there during the war.

Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church

San Agustin the oldest standing church in the Philippines, built in 1605. Also houses a museum of religious paintings and artifacts.

Calesa horse drawn carriages, used as taxis and a pleasant way to sightsee the city.

Calesa Horse Carts

Rizal Park in Manila, constructed as a memorial to one of the Philippines great National Heroes.

Manila Cathedral, re-constructed 6 times since 1581.

Manila Cathedral

Makati, the dynamic skyscraper city, that is home to Manila's Business District and exciting nightlife.

Makati Business District

Set in beautiful parkland, the moving 2nd World War Memorial and Cemetery is a must for all American visitors. 17,000 US servicemen and 30,000 Filipinos lost their lives in the war.

2nd World War Memorial and Cemetery

Ermita, Manila, The Nightlife district. Home to many exciting bars, restaurants and nightlife.

Manila Nightlife

Starcity, an amusement park on Roxas Boulevard.

Various Museums, including The National, San Agustin, Metropolitan

CORDILLERA

IFUGAO PROVINCE

Banaue Rice Terraces
The 2000 year old, man made wonder, The Banaue Rice Terraces. Built by local Igorot tribes, The Ifugao are featured in our Northern Luzon Tour.

Banaue Rice Terraces & Igorot tribesman

Languages & dialects spoken:
The two prominent dialects spoken in the province are Kankana-ey and Ibaloi. Others speak Kalanguya, Karao, and Iowak.

The Sagada Hanging Coffins are featured in our Northern Round Trip Tour, along with the Sagada Stone Church built by American Missionaries

MOUNTAIN PROVINCE

Sagada Hanging Coffins

Benguet is the roof of Northern Luzon. It straddles on the Cordillera mountain ranges.

Mt. Pulag, the second highest mountain in the Philippines, and Halsema Highway, the highest mountain highway system in the country, are located in Benguet. Today it holds claim as the “Salad Bowl of the Philippines” because of the huge production of upland vegetables.

Sagada Hanging Coffins

The province is also famous for the Kabayan Mummies. The Tinongchol Burial Rock, located in Kabayan, is almost as big as a regular three-storey building. It houses centuries-old mummies, which came about through the labour of people during the olden times, who bore holes on the solid boulders, where they interred their dead. Timbac Caves in Kabayan is another mummy abode, which can be reached by hiking from a jump-off point along kilometer 52 of the Halsema Highway. Opdas Cave in Kabayan is one of the biggest burial caves in the municipality. It has 200 skulls and bones neatly piled on ledges reminiscent of the catacombs of Rome.

The highest mountain peak in Luzon, Mount Pulag towers at an altitude of 9,640 feet above sea level in the territory of Benguet. It is considered by the local folks as the "playground of the gods." Located in Kabayan, the mountain is home to many species of highland flora and fauna, including the dwarf bamboo, which covers its bald peak. Mountain climbing expeditions in Pulag, organized by the Municipality of Kabayan and supported by the Province of Benguet and its Provincial Tourism Council, are scheduled during the months of December and April.

Geography:
Benguet lies in the southernmost part of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). Pangasinan bounds it on the south, Ifugao and Nueva Viscaya on the east, Mountain Province on the north, and La Union and Ilocos Sur on the west. The province has a total land area of 261,648 hectares. It is located between 16'33" north latitude and 120'34" to 125'52" east longitude. Its capital, La Trinidad, is 256 kilometers north of Manila and 6 kilometers north of Baguio City.

Ilocos:
Church of Nuestra Señora dela Asuncion
The Historic Town of Vigan cobbled streets & myriad of well preserved Spanish ancestral houses & centuries old churches.

Historical sites:
Tirad Pass, Bessang Pass

Ilocos Norte is a rugged land of unique people who have kept history and beauty preserved. The church in the town of Paoay has been inscribed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Paoay Church is a Gothic-Baroque-Oriental church constructed from 1704 to 1894. Its coralstone bell tower served as an observation post of the revolutionary “Katipuneros” during the Philippine Revolution of 1896. The people of the town are known for the age-old industry of loom weaving, in which they engage to date, to produce finely crafted pieces with ethnic Ilocano designs. The province’s seascapes remain equally unspoiled. Pagudpud beach is reputed to have the longest continuous white sand, with mighty waves and strong winds that can compare to Hawaii. Wind and wave surfing are the outstanding activities here, not to mention the inviting views and clear blue waters. The town of Pagudpud’s land and sea beauties also include the Patapat Viaduct, a scenic viaduct that hugs the coast and mountains.

Ilocos Sur is where the Ilocos Region’s myriad of cultures and histories converge to become a living museum of a spirited past. Found in the province is the historic town of Vigan, which was inscribed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in November 1999. Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines and from China with those from Europe to create a unique culture and townscape without parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia. Centuries-old Sta. Maria Church, declared a National Landmark, was used as a fortress during the Philippine Revolution of 1896. Tirad Pass, declared a National Shrine, had been the last stand of the Filipino Revolutionary Forces under General Emilio Aguinaldo during the same period. Bessang Pass served as the backdoor to General Yamashita’s last defense during the last stage of World War II.

Ilocos Norte has a land area of 3,399.34 square kilometers consisting of alluvial plains, hills, mountains, coastal and miscellaneous land types. Its terrain is generally mountainous and rocky. Its coastline is dotted with coves and rivers, most prominent of which are Bonga, Labugaon, Bacarra, and Laoag. It further cuts into the coastal configurations of Bangui and Pasaleng Bay. Ilocos Norte is bounded on the south by Ilocos Sur, on the east by Cagayan and Kalinga, on the southeast by Abra, and on the west by the China Sea.

Ilocos Sur is located along the western coast of Northern Luzon. It is bounded by Ilocos Norte on the north, Abra on the northeast, Mt. Province on the east, Benguet on the southeast, La Union on the south, and the China Sea on the west. Its area of 2,579.58 square kilometers occupies about 20.11 % of the total land area of Region 1. The topography of Ilocos Sur is undulating to rolling with elevations ranging from 10 to 1,700 meters above sea level.

Languages & dialects spoken:

Ilocano (Iloko) is the major dialect. English and Filipino are the tools of instruction in schools.

Baguio

This is where the people escape to from the humidity and heat of the city. The mountain town in central Luzon is elevated and 8 degrees cooler than the rest of the country.

BAGUIO CITY

• Mines View Park
  
• Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto
  
• The Mansion
  
• Burnham Park
  
• Earthquake site

Burnham Park, Baguio & Baguio Cathedral

City tour available

When the Americans discovered Baguio 100 years ago, it was not yet a city but known as a “rancheria,” the dominant feature of which was a large, low-lying area called “Kafagway.” In the dry season it was a pasture for herds of cattle and horses, but for much of the year, it was a marshland with a shallow lake where residents hunted for ducks and snipes. Kafagway roughly covered the same area as the present city.

The Americans found Baguio an ideal site for a future city. The hills were grassy and studded with pine trees. They later found a great source of water and immediately decided to make Baguio an admirable site for the future summer capital and health resort of the Philippines.

On July 16, 1990 a great earthquake devastated the city destroying much of its buildings and infrastructure and killing many people. Barely a year after the great earthquake, Baguio rose again, a new city with a proud heritage.

Earthquake Devastation

In the summer months of March, April, and May, Baguio lives up to its title as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines” when thousands of visitors from the lowlands and Manila take their annual exodus to the city to cool off. From November to May, Baguio becomes a tropical paradise, a refreshing break from the hot and humid Philippine climate. Christmas season is when Baguio glows with the nippy winter air. Baguio Floral Festivals are held in February. The city is also famous for its towering pine trees.

Geography:
Baguio City, approximately 250 kilometers north of Manila, is situated in the heart of the Province of Benguet. The area of the city is 49 square kilometers enclosed in a perimeter of 30.6 kilometers. The developed portion of the city is a plateau that rises to an elevation of 1,400 meters. Most of it lies on the northern half of the city. About half the area of the city has a slope of 25% or more.

Languages & dialects spoken:
English is widely spoken and understood. It is the medium of instruction in all public and private schools. The national language, Filipino, is spoken by everyone. Ilocano is also spoken by almost everybody.

Attractions include: Burnham Park, Mines Park & Baguio Cathedral.

PANGASINAN
Hundred Islands, a beautiful strectch of coast in the Lingayan Gulf.

LAGUNA

• Rizal Shrine
  
• Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery
  
• Lake Caliraya, City of Seven Lakes
  
• Hot & Cold springs resorts
  
• St. Gregory the great Parish Church of Majayjay; San Pedro de Alcantara of Pakil
  
• Pila Heritage Town
  
• Paete’s Woodcarvings & Paper Mache’ Products
  
• Lumban Barong Embroidery
  
• Liliw’s Footwear & Delicacies
  
• Enchanted Kingdom
• Mt. Makiling is 1000 metre high peak visible on any journey south out of Manila

Resort Province Of The Philippines

Laguna is a haven of fresh and pristine bodies of water such as hot springs, lakes, and waterfalls. Most notable is Pagsanjan Falls, formerly called Magdapio Falls, referred to as “shooting rapids.” It is found in Cavinti, starting from Pagsanjan town.

Pagsanjan Falls

Innumerable hot springs abound in the province, including the famous Hidden Valley Springs which is located in a secluded part of Alaminos town.

Laguna is also home of many fine churches, including St Gregory's, one of the oldest in the Philippines.

Villa Escudero, located at the San Pablo City, Laguna is a vast coconut plantation dating back to the Spanish colonial period. Featured is the "Escudero Private Museum" which boasts of an impressive collection of oriental pottery, religious icons consisting of silver altars, gilded corrozas, ivory headed santos and other family memorabilia. From the museum, visitors board a carabao (water buffalo) driven cart which takes you to the nearby resort where a native gourmet lunch awaits amidst swaying coconut trees. Lunch is a wet affair with tables submerged in the waters cascading from sparkling Labasin Falls as background and cool clear water running around the feet.

Sorsogon/Donsol

The first sightings of Walesharks were found here at the mouth of the Donsol River.

Donsol Whaleshark Interaction

Sorsogon, Luzon. In late 1997, the world discovered the huge schools of whale sharks that had been visiting the mouth of the Donsol River for generations, oblivious to the small coastal community. Organized whale shark expeditions then transformed this sleepy, remote fishing village into a major eco-tourist destination almost overnight.

These giants, grow to over 50 feet in length and 13 tons in weight.

Mt.Mayon Volcano
The Bicol region, a narrow trail of land running south from Manila,it is studded with volcanoes, and offers a different and exciting experience for mountain climbers. Popular climbs in the area include Mt. Bulusan, Mt. Isarog, and the perfect towering cone of Mt. Mayon, which has one of the finest summit views in the country. One of the most visited places in the province, Cagsawa Ruins Park in Daraga affords tourists an unhampered vista of majestic Mayon Volcano. Standing prominently are the ruins of Cagsawa Church, which was buried by molten lava when it erupted on February 1, 1814, killing some 1,200 persons who converged inside it for safety. The Bicol Region is known for the warmth and friendliness of its people, and for its exquisite spicy cuisine.

Mt. Mayon

Languages & dialects spoken:
The people mainly speak Bicolano, the local dialect, but English and Tagalog are also spoken and understood.

SORSOGON
One’s visit to the Bicolandia is not complete without catching a captivating view of Mayon Volcano, the world’s most perfect cone and Bicol’s fiery maiden. Her name was derived from the Bikol word “Magayon,” which literally means beautiful. The peak, likened to the legendary beauty Daragang Magayon, is often concealed by clouds urging first-time visitors to stay longer to admire her charm. Despite her enigma which has left a trail of death and destruction brought about by her 15 eruptions, her tantrums have become spectacular fireworks displays to behold.

Geography:
The Bicol Region is situated at the southernmost tip of the Luzon landmass. It is bounded by Quezon province, East by the open seas of the pacific, Southeast by Samar Sea and Southwest by Sibuyan Sea. It comprises 6.0 percent of the country's total land area. It is subdivided into six provinces, namely, Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, in the southernmost part of Luzon; and the two island provinces of Catanduanes and Masbate; one chartered city, six component cities, 107 municipalities, and 3,471 barangays. At present, it has 14 congressional districts. Volcanoes and Mountains dominate the sceneries in the countryside. Mounts Mayon, Malinao, Masaraga and Catburawan in Albay; Mount Labo in Camarines Norte; Mounts Isarog and Iriga in Camarines Sur; and Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon.

Batangas

Taal Volcano Taal Volcano is only 40 kms from Manila

Southern Luzon’s main attraction is the Taal Lake & Volcano Ridge view in Batangas. The gateway for most visitors is through Tagaytay City from the ridge where a panoramic view of Volcano Island can be seen. The volcano is known to be the smallest in the world. Surrounded by a lake, it is situated on an 8.8-kilometre islet, lapped by the 27-kilometre-long lake. Both the lake and the volcano are situated on the crater of an extinct volcano.

Taal Volcano

Taal Volcano is also ideal for trekking, or you can take a donkey ride up tp the caldera.

People's Park in the sky, Tagaytay. President Marcos commenced building a huge palace on this site. Now turned into a viewing platform for tourists to view the beautiful Tagaytay Ridge and the Highlands around Lake Taal.

• Anilao, Sombrero Island, Verde Island Scuba Diving
  Ligpo Island, Sepok Point, Papaya Point, Maricaban, Tingloy Board Sailing
• Tingga Falls, Mainit Hot Springs, Calijon Falls
  
• Mabini Shrine, Leon Apacible & Marcela Agoncillo Landmark, Punta Santiago Lighthouse
  
• Basilica of San Martin de Porres, Santuario of Our Lady of Caysasay, Immaculate Concepcion Parish

ZAMBALES

Pampanga

Angeles/Clark

• Clark Special Economic Zone
  
• Mimosa Golf & Country Club

Description:
Clark, in the Central Luzon province of Pampanga, is the former homebase of the United States air fleet in Southeast Asia. A 90 min drive north of Manila, Clark is a special economic zone that has a recreation network which includes an 18-hole golf course, an aviation school, a deluxe hotel and duty free shops.

For decades it was known simply as the Clark US Air Force Base, home to American pilots serving in the Pacific. Today, the Clark Special Economic Zone (CSEZ) is setting out to become an interesting tourist destination and business centre.

Clark occupies more than 28,000 hectares. It is located in Angeles City.

Geography:

Languages & dialects spoken:
There are no main dialects in Olongapo City, where Subic is located. The people generally speak and understand Filipino and English.

Residents of Angeles mostly speak Kapampangan, though Tagalog and English are also widely spoken.

Angeles City is best known for it’s 24 hour nightlife in the Balabog district.

Woodcarving and furniture making are two of the oldest professions in Angeles City as its local population has become highly skilled in the art over a hundred years, especially catering to Americans during the Clark Air Base period. A furniture village near Clark Field in Cauayan showcases world-class quality furniture owned by businessman Ruperto Cruz including factories for export-quality rattan and wrought-iron furniture . Other towns known for this enterprise are the towns of Lubao and Guagua, particularly Betis made famous for its guitar-making industry. In fact, Betis artisans are known to have produced the first wooden chandeliers installed in Malacañang Palace.

SUBIC BAY (OLONGAPO)

• Subic Bay Scuba Diving (Great location for wreck diving.)
  
• Mount Pinatubo Volcano is less than a 100 kilometres from Manila, last erupted 2006.

Once the site of the biggest U.S. naval base in Asia, Olongapo is fast developing into an industrial and tourism destination through the Subic Bay Freeport Zone under the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

Geography:
Subic Bay Freeport (SBF) is located in the southwest of Luzon Island. The Zambales Mountain Range lies at the east and the Subic Bay at the west. It is northwest of the Bataan Peninsula and southwest of the Zambales Province. SBF is 110 kilometers north of Manila. The mountain ranges around Subic and the harbour create a natural shelter from typhoons, as well as from the effects of the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo.

ANILAO (BATANGAS)
It is not only ideal for poking around and observing marine life but also outstanding for macro photography. Multi-hued crinoids are prolific. The variety of nudibranchs is unmatched. Night dives are especially nice and often reveal unusual creatures like sea hares, sea goblins, catfish eels, ghost pipe fishes, blue-ringed octopuses, mandarin fishes, and snake eels.

The area’s best known dive site, Cathedral, is two large mounds with a cross in between at 50’. It is a well established fish feeding station. Covered with corals, the site is spectacular at night. Sombrero has a shallow wall of about 60’ with some good coral growth; offshore but nearby are Beatrice Rock and Bajura. Schools of triggerfishes and sometimes jacks and surgeons swim by, and they appear to have the market on anthias.

One of the prettiest dives in the area, Sepok has nice coral gardens and a vertical wall. Devil’s Point Twin Rocks, Coral Gardens, and Mainit are shallow dives with a wide array of invertebrates, especially nudibranchs. Bonete.

There is a good selection of hard and soft corals, anemones & others.

ORIENTAL MINDORO

• Puerto Galera, Tamaraw Falls, Mangyan Settlement, Mt.Halcon, Calapan Nature Park, Baco-chico Islets, Suqui Beach, Balite Beach, Naujan Lake, Socorro citrus plantations, Roxas Port, Adventure holidays
  
• Pandan Island Scuba Diving

PUERTO GALERA, MINDORO is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving. A cluster of nightspots are in the area, which make it popular for nightlife.

This was where the deepest recorded scuba dive, at around 300 metres, took place in 2002.

OCCIDENTAL MINDORO

• Apo Reef National Park, Ambulong Island, Ilin Island, Lubang Island, Mt. Iglit

NEGROS

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

• Canlaon Volcano
  
• Sta.Clara Chapel
  
• San Sebastian Cathedral
  
• Ancestral houses
  
• Negros Museum
  
• Chapel of Cartwheels
  
• Guintubdan Nature Camp
  
• Rafael Salas Nature Park
  
• Mambukal Resort
  
• Patag Valley Trekking
  
• Masskara Festival
  
• Panaad Festival

ORIENTAL NEGROS

• Dumaguete
  
• Silliman Uni.
  
• Apo Island Scuba Diving
  
• Balinsasayao Twin Lakes
  
• Forest Camp
  
• Bais Dolphin Watching

BACOLOD

DUMAGUETE

PANAY

AKLAN

• Boracay Island White Beach
  
• Nabas (Eco-Tourism Area)
  
• Camp Verde
  
• Tangalan (Eco-Tourism Area)
  
• Jawili Falls
  
• Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival
  
• Bakbawan Eco-Park
  
• De la Cruz House of Piña
  
• Pink Sisters Convent
  
• Sampaguita Gardens
  
• Aklan State University/Mandaluyong Hill

A short flight and boat crossing from Manila puts you onto Boracay Island. The palm studded island of Boracay, has a white, talcum powder fine beach, balmy weather, and warm, crystalline waters, In this tiny, butterfly-shaped island at the northwestern tip of Panay in Western Visayas, days can be spent simply lazing on the beach while nights are for indulging in the tropical party lifestyle.

The best part of the island is the four 3.5 kilometre White Beach hailed as the “finest beach in the world.” The surrounding water is shallow and the sand is finer and brighter than most beaches in the archipelago. White Beach is so fine, it feels like baby powder. White Beach, is a stunning location with great nightlife. If you love beautiful beaches, scuba diving, kitesurfing, boating, watersports and casual nightlife, then this is the place to be.

Sailboating and kayaking are popular sporting activities, with Boracay playing host to the annual Paraw Regatta, an international sailboat race that makes use of the native outrigger. Dive sites surround the island and are learning venues to both novice and professional divers, guided by competent instructors of the many dive shops that operate in the area.

Trekking and mountain biking can also bring the intrepid to the island's quaint interior villages and to the edges' scenic rocky cliffs, discovering along the way many hidden coves with isolated beaches far from the tourist crowd. And for golf bugs, Fairways and Bluewater Resort Golf and Country Club has an 18-hole championship course.

The water surrounding the island is shallow and the sand is finer and brighter than most beaches in the archipelago.

Boracay is a small Island with limited accommodation and a shortage of good hotels please ask about our waitlist.

Geography:
Boracay Island belongs to the Western Visayas island-group, Region 6 of the Philippines, along with the western part of the province of Negros, the island of Panay, and many smaller islands. The westernmost island in Western Visayas, Boracay borders the provinces of Mindoro to the northwest and Romblon to the north.

Languages & dialects spoken:
Other than Tagalog/Filipino and other local dialects, English is widely spoken in Boracay. Akeanon is predominantly spoken in Aklan, the gateway to the island.


ANTIQUE

• Northwest Panay Peninsula
  
• Malumpati Cold Springs/Bugang Malumpati River
  
• Mt. Madia-as, Mt. Porras
  
• St. Blaise Church
  
• Patadyong Weaving
  
• Gemstone Trek
  
• Binirayan Festival
  
• EBJ Freedom Park
  
• Malandog Marker
  
• Anini-y Church
  
• Nogas Island

ILOILO

• Church of Sto. Tomas de Villanueva
  
• City Proper District (Old buildings Fort San Pedro, Museo Iloilo, Arroyo Fountain)
  
• Sto.Tomas de Villanueva Church
  
• San Joaquin Church
  
• Guimbal Church
  
• Timbauan Church
  
• SEAFDEC Fish World
  
• Garin Farm
  
• Dinagyang Festival
  
• Bulabog-Putian Mountain Ranges
  
• Iloilo Golf & Country Club
  
• Sta. Barbara Church

Iloilo is set in a graceful repose between the Iloilo and Batiano rivers, forming an angle of a nose. Hence, its old name “Ilong-Ilong” which means “noselike”. Mountain ranges with peaks as high as almost 7,000 ft. provide natural boundaries between Iloilo and Antique on the west and Capiz on the north. The rest of mainland Iloilo is largely plain with interspersing upland portions.

Iloilo is located in the center of the Philippine archipelago. Strategically located 283 statute miles from Manila, it is the gateway to the flourishing region that is Western Visayas. The province comprises the southeastern part of Panay Island.
Iloilo’s climate is pleasantly tropical with 2 pronounced seasons – the rainy season from June to September, and the dry season from October to May.

Languages & dialects spoken:
Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) is the main dialect spoken in Iloilo. English and Tagalog are also widely spoken and understood especially in urban areas.

LEYTE

• Tacloban City, Leyte Provincial Capitol
  
• Sto. Niño Shrine & Heritage Museum
  
• MacArthur Landing Memorial & Commemorative Rock Garden
  
• San Juanico Bridge
  - Palo Metropolitan Cathedral
• Price Mansion
  
• Palompon, Leyte
  - Tabuk Marine Park
• Ormoc City
  - Lake Danao
  
• Hindang
  - Hilongos Church & Belfry

SOUTHERN LEYTE

• Sogod Bay Scuba Diving
  
• Tagbak Shoal
  
• Libagon Municipal Hall
  
• Limasawa
  
• Whalesharks

PALAWAN

• Puerto Princesa
  
• Calauit National-Park
  
• Coron Bay scuba diving on Japanese fleet
  
• El Nido Lagen island Resort
  
• Honda Bay Islands
  
• El Nido Miniloc Island
  
• Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
  
• Quezon Mini Underground River
  
• Club Paradise Dugong Site
  
• Taytay Bay
  
• Turtle Islands
  
• Tubbataha Reef
  
• Ursula Island Bird Santuary

PALAWAN

Coron Bay & Busuanga for wreck diving & Tubbataha National Park for Reef dives.

HONDA BAY
Framing the rugged and intriguing coastline of the capital of Palawan, Puerto Princesa City is Honda Bay. Its blue cool waters are dotted with islets that assure one of a pure-pleasure experience. From snorkeling in its clear waters to the more adventurous island hopping within its enclaves to simply having a picnic in the fine sand of its beach areas, Honda Bay is sure to leave a lasting impression on the visitor.

EL NIDO
Dominated by towering marble cliffs that are homes to a number of tropical birds, El Nido is the source of one of the most delectable soups specially found in Chinese restaurants – the Nido Soup. This soup consists mainly of the birdnests that abound in the area. But El Nido is more than this. It prides itself in having the most beautiful seascapes in the province of Palawan, known as the country’s last frontier. Because of its utter splendor, it has also been called the island of the gods, heaven on earth, that is El Nido.

The world's largest pearl was discovered by a Filipino diver in a giant Tridacna (mollusk) under the Palawan Sea in 1934. Known as the "Pearl of Lao-Tzu", the gem weighs 14 pounds and measures 9 1/2 inches long and 5 1/2 inches in diameter. As of May 1984, it was valued at US$42 million. It is believed to be 600 years old.

The island province of Palawan has been declared as a nature sanctuary of the world, and for good reason. It is wrapped in a mantel of rainforests, outstanding dive sites, majestic mountains, primeval caves, and pristine beaches. It is surrounded by a coral shelf that abounds with varied and colorful marine life. It boasts of exotic flora and fauna, like the mousedeer and the scaly anteater, that are found nowhere else.

Palawan waters are among the best in the world, not only for diving but also for fishing. A diver's paradise, it has miles of sub-surface coral and rainbow reef walls which surround the coasts and coves teeming with rich marine life.

The province boasts of extraordinary scenic wonders. African animals from Kenya in Africa - giraffes and elands, zebras and gazelles – co-exist with endemic Philippine animals, like the Palawan bearcat, mousedeer and peacock (pheasant), in the Calauit Island Wildlife Sanctuary in Busuanga, considered one of the province’s most amazing sites. Another sanctuary found in Rio Tuba Village, Bataraza is the Ursula Island Game Refuge and Bird Sanctuary. This island is a haven for birds that rest and converge two hours before sunset, after a day's flight.

Geography:
Palawan is approximately 586 kilometers southwest of Manila, between Mindoro Island on the north, Borneo on the south, China Sea on the west, and Sulu Sea on the east. Its total land area of 1,489,655 hectares spreads across the peripheral islands of Busuanga, Culion, Linacapan, Cuyo, Dumaran, Cagayanes, and Balabac. Its main island measures 425 kilometers long, and 40 kilometers wide. Puerto Princesa, the capital city, is the chief seaport and the center of trade and commerce.

A chain of mountain ranges cut down the length of the main island. The mountain heights average 3,500 feet in altitude, with the highest peak rising to 6,800 feet at Mount Matalingahan. The vast mountain areas are the source of valuable timber. The terrain is a mix of coastal plain, craggy foothills, valley deltas, and heavy forest interspersed with riverine arteries that serve as irrigation.

Languages & dialects spoken:
There are 52 dialects in the province, with Tagalog being spoken by 28 percent of the people. Other major dialects are Cuyunin (26.27 percent), Pinalwan (11.08 percent), and Ilongo (9.6 percent).

The 3rd largest land mass of the 7000 islands that make up the Philippines is Palawan. The Capital City is Puerto Princesa, less than 2 hours from Manila by air.

They call Palawan Island, the ‘Last Frontier’ For sheer diversity, flora and fauna amidst breathtaking beauty this is one of the most memorable places on Earth.

Calauit Game Preserve & Wildlife Sanctuary
It is a unique game reserve and wildlife sanctuary of exotic African animals such as Giraffes and Zebra and endangered endemic animals of Palawan such as the Calamian Deer.

Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center
(formerly Crocodile Farming Institute). Aims to preserve and conduct further research studies on endangered species of crocodiles. One of the projects is a hospital for sick and disabled crocodiles. It also intends to make good use of the raw materials derived from crocodile skin.

They also maintain a mini-zoo featuring some of Palawan's animals.

Tubbataha Reefs
A marine sanctuary, divers paradise, located in the Middle Central Sulu Sea, 98 nautical miles southeast of Puerto Princesa City. Declared a World Natural Heritage site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on December 1993, it is under protective management by the Department of National Defense (DND). It is under technical supervision by the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) & the Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR).

It is