Siargao
Popular because of surfing, Siargao has so much more to offer. Sohoton cove is an expansive national park that can give you a sense of both tranquility and adrenaline rush like no other in one single journey. It's crystal clear waters and the sound of nature gives you a new level of relaxation. Jumping on a cliff makes you realize you have that courage you never thought you had.
There could be no other vacation experience in the Philippines that is more unique than swimming with hundreds or thousands of stingless jellyfish, also in Sohoton cove.
If you are lucky and the sea is calm, you can try your sea legs and go on a deep sea fishing trip and catch your meal for the day. It can make a dent on your pocket but it is worth to try at least once.
My personal note:
When I visited Siargao, I came via Butuan airport for the start of my 8-day trip around Caraga Region. If you have the time, you may also visit Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur before coming to Siargao. There are many other interesting sites to see that are accessible by land from Butuan.
Banaue, Batad and Sagada
The Banaue and Batad are home to the majestic rice terraces of the Cordillera. I was taught about it since I was a child and I have seen it in textbooks but nothing compares to waking up at the crack of dawn, opening your terrace door with the freezing breeze brushing through your face and staring at the gigantic man-made wonder. It is a sight to behold any time of the year but it is at it's best when the fields are at it's greenest.
Several hours and long winding roads from Banaue is Sagada. This is a small town that has given me so many happy memories. The best ones include an 8-hour cave connection spelunking, walking along their main road on a very cold early evening in November with my hands tightly tucked inside my jacket pocket and the beautiful sea of clouds at sunrise in Kiltepan.
My personal note:
This route may not be ideal for families with infants or toddlers, the elderly and those with other physical condition because of the long travel time from Manila and the lack of hospitals along the way in between the main towns.
Coron
Coron made me officially fall in love with travel. The quiet small town that I visited many years ago has turned into a booming tourist destination. Yes, progress has come to them but no, it has not lost it's charm. The post card-perfect view along the way to Kayanagan lake does not need any touch ups and the clear aquamarine water of the lake will make you ask yourself if it is for real. If you're in for something creepy, go free diving and explore the Skeleton wreck.
My personal note:
If you are feeling adventurous and you have the time, you can board an outrigger passenger boat from Coron and head to El Nido. The ride is at least 8 hours per way on open waters. Just be sure to take the trip when there are absolutely no weather disturbance.
Coron is also a jump-off point to Calauit and Culion islands.
El Nido
El Nido is on the wish list of many travel enthusiasts. It was daunting to reach El Nido before because of the long land trip from Puerto Princesa. But the trip has become much easier the last years paved roads have been built.
The town itself is small and very walkable, with a long stretch of beach. But the real gem lies on it's many islands with white sand beaches, the lagoons, jagged limestone cliffs and on the colorful and diverse underwater ecosystem.
My personal note:
There are now direct flights to El Nido via Airswift. It is a lot more convenient but it is not for those on a tight budget.
Bohol
There are many sites to see in Bohol which makes it a top Philippines vacation stop. The chocolate hills and white sand beaches are some of it's main attractions. For early risers do not pass up on the dolphin watching. Afterwards, head to Balicasag Island Marine Sanctuary to see the colorful fishes swimming on the clear, light blue waters. Just make sure not to swim towards the very deep wall that can go up to 200 meters deep, especially if you are not wearing a life vest. This is for licensed scuba divers.
My personal note:
It is one of the most family-friendly trips that you can have especially if you have elderly family members and infants and toddlers because of the short ride from the airport to the beachfront resorts. For some who are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy Dumaluan and Alona beaches, visit Anda. We were the only guests in our resort when we went there. It does not get any more private than that.
Cebu
Cebu is probably the closest to Metro Manila in terms of infrastructure, commerce, food and many more aspects. Apart from the nearer beaches in Mactan, I am more in awe of the beaches and activities in the farther parts of Cebu. True, the land and sea travel can be tiring but boy, it sure is worth it.
Bantayan Island has such a wide stretch of fine cream sand. By sunset, the low tide rids the beach of sea water for about a kilometer or two. You might have heard of Canyoneering in kawasan Falls. This is a hit among adventure seekers.
Malapascua has got to be one of my favorites. Divers from all over the world come here to see the majestic thresher sharks and manta rays glide gracefully through the water. Lifestyle here is simple and beaches are never crowded. A dive with the abundant sardines in Moalboal is the subject of viral videos and the envy of those who have never been there to witness it.
My personal note:
There are regular ferry schedule from Cebu to Bohol and vice versa so day trips or longer trips may be planned prior to your visit.
Ilocandia
Vigan is a charming town reminiscent of the past century. It is lovely in the morning but even more radiant at night. A quick trip to Juan Luna's home is a must-see for me. The windmills and lighthouse are so photogenic, you will regret it if you do not come down from your car to have some pictures taken.
The Sand dunes is something that can be experienced here in the Philippines only in laoag. Make some space in your car for a guitar or a ukulele for when you are spending the night on the beach in Pagudpud.
My personal note:
On the route up North to Pagudpud, bring some food to eat along the way in case you get hungry and you are a picky eater. Many small towns do not have the restaurants that you might be used to. Schedule your Laoag Sand Dunes trip towards the late afternoon so it will not be too hot especially during the summer season.
If you are pressed for time but you want to cover the whole Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud route, leave Manila at night so you can start exploring Vigan by morning.
