Get relaxed beach resorts in the Philippines

The Philippines is a popular tourist destination. Whether you come to visit its many sights around the country or just to spend your holiday in one spot, you’re sure to have a dream vacation here. If relaxation is your primary reason to visit, you won’t be disappointed. Since this Southeast Asian country is made up of many islands, beach resorts in the Philippines abound, each offering a smorgasbord of water activities and relaxation options.

Bohol Beach Club

With an emphasis on healthy outdoor activates, the Bohol Beach Club makes it fun and easy to keep in shape while on holiday. You can choose from activities such as windsurfing, kayaking, and pedal boating or biking. But, if you played too hard in the sun, the Bohol Beach Club offers massages to work out the kinks and ease those tired muscles. Buildings center around an outdoor pool or you can go for a swim in the ocean just steps away. This newly renovated three-star is on Panglao island.

Plantation Bay Resort

Although Plantation Bay Resort is right on the beach, you won’t have to jump the waves to go canoeing and paddle boarding. That is because the resort has its own private waterway, one of the largest in the world. The resort is near a top diving site, with coral reefs and shipwrecks just waiting to be explored. The hotel has all the graciousness of the tropical plantation it resembles. Spacious rooms have specially designed sleeping tubs, while restaurants serve everything from fried bananas to shrimp tempura.

El Nido Resorts Lagen Island

El Nido Resorts on Lagen Island calls itself an eco-sanctuary, a place that is designed to preserve the surrounding environment. On one side of the resort, there’s a lush forest; on the other side, tranquil bay waters. You can relax by going bird- or wildlife watching or looking at the scenery from limestone rock formations to the jungle. You can get your daily exercise by sailing, hiking a nature trail, swimming or working out at the fitness center, followed by a relaxing massage.

Shangri-La's Boracay

Lush vegetation gives Shangri-La’s Boracay a very intimate feel, almost like you’re on a deserted island. Located on Puka Shell Beach on scenic Boracay island, the resort’s white sand beaches and green forest make for a winning combination. Water activities range from lounging on the beach to parasailing to deep sea diving. You can rejuvenate yourself at the full-service spa that offers treatments using Chinese and Philippine techniques. Your dining options include a cliff-top restaurant that specializes in seafood.

Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort

Green is a relaxing, serene color; it reminds us of the great outdoors Which makes Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort the perfect spot for relaxation. Located on Palawan island in the West Philippine Sea, this small resort is surrounded by lush green vegetation. You can walk along the beach, swim in an enormous pool or just walk through the jungle. If you’re looking for different water activity, consider a ride on the nearby Puerto Princessa Underground River — Daluyon is the closest resort to the river.

Read more: Top most beautiful towns in the Philippines

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5 best places to go for a cycling tour in the Philippines

The Philippines is a country studded with magnificent views suitable for a cycling tour. From the mountains to the shores, it delivers breathtaking sights that cyclists will love. Here are the 5 best places in the country for a visit on your two-wheeler.

Sagada

The town of Sagada in the Mountain Province should be at the top of the cycling list. Not to be underestimated, cycling within the Cordillera Mountains naturally calls for a sturdy mountain bike. Popular trails in the area include Kiltepan and Marlboro Country. Traversing these uphill routes at the right times rewards visitors with surreal views of the sunrise within a sea of clouds. If more relaxed cycling is desired, however, slow riding around town and rice paddies still gives gorgeous views of surrounding mountains. The town’s activities and attractions shouldn’t be missed either. Cyclists can make a side trip to the famous Hanging Coffins of Sagada or take a bike-break for a day of spelunking in Sumaging Cave.

Palawan

Palawan is rarely recognised as the cyclist’s paradise but it undoubtedly is. The main island of Palawan is one long, narrow stretch of land. With the the capital city, Puerto Princesa, at the center of the island, travellers begin here and venture much further up north, normally to the popular tourist destinations of El Nido and Coron. But what many have yet to discover are the places in between. This is good for cyclists since these areas, such as Sabang, Roxas, and San Vicente, aren’t as heavy on the traffic, vehicle- and people-wise. Cyclists are best taking on these long-haul journeys from Puerto Princesa, northward, making multiple stops along the way, to truly appreciate the beauty of Palawan.

Mindoro

Most cyclists' favorite in this island province is the route from Calapan to Puerto Galera. This paved, winding route seems to offer every desired view imaginable, from shimmery coastlines to volcanoes and lush mountains. Cyclists can also enjoy many refreshing nature stops along the way in places like Infinity Farm, Tukuran Falls, and Tamaraw Falls. And at the end of the long journey, the UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve-declared town of Puerto Galera awaits with beautiful beaches and flourishing coral reefs.

Corregidor

For a taste of something different, cyclists can take a step back in time with a trip to the island of Corregidor. Because of its strategic location at the gate of Manila Bay, Corregidor was a crucial fortress of defense used to protect the city of Manila. Due to this, it carries centuries of history that are still visible in its sites and ruins. The island is best for leisurely cycling and stopping at the various landmarks for tales of the past. For bike enthusiasts who also happen to be history buffs, this cycling destination should not be missed.

Batanes

Cyclists shouldn’t come to Batanes for difficult trails. Instead, cyclists should visit Batanes to admire the spectacular landscapes that can’t be found in any other part of the Philippines. The green rolling hills and high cliffs overlook views many compare to springtime in countries like Scotland and New Zealand. Cyclists should allot ample time for cycling North Batan, South Batan, and Sabtang Island because each one is truly worth the trip. The difficulty of reaching this island province brought by its remoteness and unpredictable weather is all made worth it by the lovely locals – sworn by visitors as being among the nicest in the country – and sights that are nothing short of spectacular.

See more: Top most beautiful towns in the Philippines

Source: Internet

Get to know what are typical breakfasts in Asia

One of the most exciting experiences to have while traveling around Asia is to taste the local food. If you’re looking for some authenticity in your travel journey, be sure to start the day with a power-packed local breakfast. The breakfast menu for this diverse continent is strikingly different from one country to the next, from pancakes to rice and noodles.

The Philippines

A typical Filipino breakfast can range from pandesal (bread rolls), champorado (chocolate rice porridge), garlic fried rice, and meat—such as tapa (dried or cured beef), longganisa (Spanish sausage), tocino (sweet pork belly), corned beef, or fish such as daing na bangus (salted and dried milkfish), or itlog na pula (salted duck eggs).

Pandesal

Bibingka

Champorado

Japan

Traditional breakfast in Japan

In any traditional Japanese household, you’ll find them serving steamed rice, miso soup, grilled fish and various side dishes for their breakfast. Side dishes may include tsukemono (Japanese pickles), nori (dried seasoned seaweed), natto (fermented soy beans), kobachi (small side dishes which usually consist of vegetables), and green salad.

China

The Chinese have a special version of a doughnut, which is called youtiao (long, golden-brown, deep-fried strip of dough). They’re best served dipped or soaked in soy milk.

Vietnam

The Vietnamese have bì for their breakfast. It’s basically shredded pork mixed with pork skin, eaten with “broken rice”: rice made from fractured and broken grains.

Banh mi

Com Tam (Broken Rice)

Malaysia

For the Malaysians, they have nasi lemak, which is a rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, served with a bunch of different garnishes.

Korea

Koreans are all about their tofu or cabbage soup, rice, pickled veggies, kimchi (of course), and soy-marinated beef.

Israel

Shashuka

If you’ve ever been to Israel, shakshuka is always on the menu. It’s composed of onions, peppers, tomato paste, and eggs.

Singapore

Congee is the breakfast go-to dish for Singaporeans. They usually flavour it with cuttle fish, pork, or eggs.

Read more: Explore a traditional Japanese breakfast

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5 fun things to do in Manila, Philippines

More than just an in-between when flying to the Philippines’ beautiful beaches, Manila is a buzzing metropolis with lots to offer. When visiting the country’s capital, expect to find beautiful historic spots, amazing sunset views, bang-for-your-buck shopping, and to-die-for culinary experiences.

Go back in time at the old city of Intramuros

Ask any local for tips on what to do in Manila, and usually you’ll get the same answer: Visit Intramuros. The historic ‘Walled City’ dates back to the Spanish occupation, when Intramuros was the colony’s centre, and walls were built to protect it from foreign invasions. Back in the day, only the wealthiest and most influential citizens resided here. Today, you can still revel in its old-world charm. Intramuros’ cobbled streets are lined with old Spanish houses that have been restored and turned into museums, beautiful churches and parks, and eight different museums.

There’s so much to see, but in particular, you’ll have to visit historical sites like Fort Santiago (Intramuros’ citadel back in the day), the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church (which proudly stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site), San Agustin Museum, and Casa Manila. Also, if you’re on the adventurous side, you can even opt to join a ghost tour.

Go on a food crawl around Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown

Ready your stomachs, because you’re in for a gastronomical adventure! Binondo is Manila’s Chinatown, where you’ll find quaint, affordable eateries at almost every corner. Here, you’ll get your fix of dim sum and roast duck, as well as your fill of Filipino-Chinese favourites like lumpiang Shanghai (egg rolls with meat, fish, and vegetables), mami (noodle soup), and hopia (bean-filled pastry).

You can opt to craft your own foodie itinerary, or join a food crawl like the Big Binondo Food Wok with Ivan Man Dy, who once toured culinary legend Anthony Bourdain around Manila. On the tour, you won’t just be exploring Binondo’s food scene, you’ll also get to learn about the town’s historical spots.

Get a breathtaking view of the Manila Bay sunset

There’s nothing quite like golden hour at Manila Bay. When the sun starts to set, make sure to stop and take in this world-renowned view while going on a leisurely stroll along the Baywalk on Roxas Boulevard. You also have the option to enjoy the scene over cocktails at a nearby al fresco bar or restaurant.

Explore Rizal Park

One of the top attractions in Manila, Rizal Park is just a short walk from Intramuros. It is one of Asia’s largest urban parks, and a favourite spot for Manila dwellers to relax on weekends. But more than just a bright, breezy place to hang out, Rizal Park is a historical site that holds a great significance for Filipinos.

The vast 58-hectare park is home is to the Rizal monument, which houses the remains of the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal, at its base. Here, you can even visit the very spot where Rizal was executed by the firing squad; it’s marked by a life-size diorama illustrating his final moments. In addition, you’ll also find statues of many national heroes, two beautiful gardens (the Chinese Garden and the Japanese Garden), and Manila’s very own point of origin, Kilometer Zero.

See your aquatic dreams come to life at Manila Ocean Park

The oceanarium is the Philippines’ very first world-class marine park, a cute date spot, and a frequently chosen venue for school trips. More than just a place to stop and stare at sea creatures behind glass, the amusement park has lots of exciting things for both children and adults to enjoy. Some of their most interesting attractions include feeding the penguins and learning to swim with a mermaid tail. My personal favourite, though, would have to be the fish spa. During the treatment, small fish nibble at your feet’s dead skin — doesn’t that just sound intriguing?

See more: Visit Manila's 7 best ramen restaurants

Source: Internet

Get to know Philippines' national dish, Adobo

The roots of the Philippines’ most well-known dish are not easy to trace, but we do know a few things about the origins of adobo, and how it’s evolved into the dish Filipinos love today. Read on to uncover the many faces of adobo, and why it inspires such devotion in its fans.

Few subjects in the Philippines raise as many differing opinions as the right way to make adobo. It’s a topic everyone feels passionately about, whether they cook or not. The reason is that a good adobo is a life-changing dish. Everyone wants everyone else to experience the epiphany, but the devil – as they say – is in the details, and the details can be squabbled about endlessly.

How to make Adobo

At its most basic level, adobo is a dish of protein braised in vinegar and spiced with garlic and black peppercorns. Beyond that, there is very little agreement. But let’s backtrack a bit.

We know the Malay voyagers who originally landed in the Philippines used vinegar and salt as a way of preserving food, keeping it edible for longer. In the hot tropical climate on the islands, vinegar appears again and again in traditional recipes, dating back to a time before refrigeration. Filipinos were already preparing their protein in a marinade of vinegar and salt before the Chinese traders arrived.

A simple pork Addobo/ Source Ernesto Andrade

Some of the Chinese traders, who ventured all over the region selling their wares, settled in the Philippines. They brought with them a number of ingredients that were quickly adopted by the locals, including ‘pancit’ noodles, and soy sauce. In many parts of the Philippines, soy sauce came to replace the use of salt in home kitchens, and so soy sauce is still considered a key ingredient of a good adobo in most households.

When the Spaniards arrived, they saw how the Filipinos used vinegar to marinate their chicken, pork, and fish. The Spanish word ‘adobar’ refers to a marinade or pickling sauce. In his writings, Pedro de San Buenaventura labeled the Filipino version ‘adobo de los naturales’ – adobo of the natives. The name stuck.

As each region of the Philippines has its own produce and preferred flavor profile, there are different versions of adobo across the islands. Where seafood was plentiful, adobo ng pusit (squid adobo with squid ink) became popular. In Southern Luzon, where heat and coconut milk are popular ingredients, adobo ng gata (adobo with coconut milk and green finger chilies) emerged. There are countless twists on adobo, and around the Philippines, you’ll find versions that include sugar, liver, potatoes, morning glory, laurel leaves, the list goes on.

Beef cheeks and tendons Adobo

In recent years, adobo has moved beyond its roots as a humble island dish, delighting diners at Filipino restaurant Purple Yam in New York and even the affection of former US President Barack Obama. Up-and-coming Filipino chefs shred the meat from adobo stew to create savory flakes to top salads, or to stuff in sushi. Adobo has featured on shows like Top Chef, and remains the ultimate test of any Filipino cook’s mettle.

Read more: Top dishes you need to try when visiting the Philippines

Home-made Adobo served with rice/ Source Pulaw

At its heart, adobo is a process of cooking, not a recipe. The tang of the vinegar is softened over low heat, intensifying the flavor of the meat, and creating a silky, mouthwatering sauce that is always, always served with fragrant white rice. Adobo’s long journey, its melding of cultures and ardent defenders all come together to tell a diverse and delicious story.

Source Esther De La Cruz/The Culture Trip

What to buy as souvenirs from Philippines

The Philippines is a country with full of culture and history. It is blessed with delicious cuisine, unique shops, beautiful scenery, white sandy beaches, and friendly people. It is a great way to spend a dream vacation. 

Filipinos have a word called “pasalubong.” This means “something for welcoming me back,” and shows the giving spirit of the Filipinos. There are many options available when looking for something to bring back to your friends and family, and they will surely love getting a little taste of the Philippines. Here is a list of popular things to buy in the Philippines.

Dried Mangoes

The Philippine mango is known worldwide for sweetness and silky texture. You can find the best mangoes in Guimaras, Zambales, and Cebu. They preserve it as a dried fruit to hold the full intensity of the flavor. Eat dried mangoes as a snack or use it to top your ice cream. It is chewy and leaves tartness in your mouth.

Chocnut or Chocolate Peanut Bars

Everyone loves Chocnut, especially the Filipino. It is a small candy bar that almost all of us is familiar with. It is a sweet mixture of peanuts, milk, sugar, and cocoa powder. You will feel nostalgic after every bite.

The ‘I love Philippines’ T-Shirt

There is no way you can miss out on these perfect Filipino souvenirs. The T-Shirts that say ‘I love Philippines’ is truly one of the popular souvenirs picked by too many people.  Make it a point to wear this T-Shirt at least on one of the days when you are touring here.

Carved Wood 

Around the islands of the Philippines, you will find carved wood in the form of different figures, bowls, ashtrays and much more. Carved wood is such a gift that is both pretty and useful.

Polvoron

Polvoron is a favourite childhood treat, for adult as well. It is a crunchy and crumbly fun-to-eat snack that comes in different flavours. Ingredients are mainly powdered milk, butter and toasted flour. They are moulded into oval or round shapes. Traditionally, polvoron was made special with rice crisps added to the mix. These sweet treats are great anytime. They are also great as gifts or giveaways during the holidays.

Tikog Slippers

Tikog is a grass that grows in the swamp near the ricefield. The locals dry and use it to create handicrafts like slippers or flip-flops, decorations, and adornments.

Tikog slippers is a comfy partner to your feet on any walk. Get trendy with its vibrant colors and good-looking designs. The product earned international recognition with exposure in magazines, websites, and other printed materials.

The Philippine Tea

If you are a tea lover, this is surely one of the things you need to grab. The Philippines tea tree which is known as Carmona Retusa is truly famous and the leaves of the tree are known to be effective in curing cold, cough, fever and lot more too. So, bring home some of this specific tea and your friend and family would appreciate it.

Read more: Taste the most popular desserts in the Philippines

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What to eat in Palawan, Philippines

Palawan is considered a melting pot of different cultures and this is apparent in its cuisine. Its biggest attraction is the wide offerings of sumptuous seafood. Palawan also houses small hole-in-the-wall restaurants that tourists flock to, such as Ka Lui’s and Kinabuch’s Bar and Grill.

Halo Halo

Literally translated, it means “Mix-Mix” in Filipino. Halo Halo is a popular refreshing drink which consists of a mixture of sweetened preserved fruits, evaporated milk and crushed ice. The topping is either ice cream or leche flan. The best place to try Halo Halo in Puerto Princesa is Noki Nocs Savory House on Rizal Avenue.

Crocodile Sisig

Another exotic dish you can try in Palawan is crocodile sisig, a variation of the sizzling dish that typically uses pork. Crocodile meat is said to taste like beef but leaner. Kinabuch also serves this popular dish, as do most local restaurants.

Lato Seaweed

Lato seaweed, also known as or sea grapes or green caviar is a very popular dish in Palawan due to its soft and succulent texture.  It is best served with either salt or vinegar and is a perfect match to any dish especially fried ones. Lato seaweed is very common to the Philippines and nearby countries, however, the best quality comes from the municipality of Cuyo in Palawan.

Tamilok

You cannot talk about Palawan cuisine without mentioning the tamilok. The tamilok, a wood worm harvested from rotting mangroves. The slimy greyish worms (which are actually molluscs) do not look appetizing at first, but it is been said to taste like oysters. Most restaurants serve tamilok, though the more popular location is Kinabuchs in Puerto Princesa.

Chao Long Noodles

Chao Long noodles have been introduced to Palawan by the Vietnamese immigrants. Puerto Princesa’s Chao long is flat, thin rice noodles in a sweet-savory broth with meat (beef or pork), served with the requisite plate containing sprigs of mint and basil, raw bean sprouts and calamansi. You can try Chao Long noodles and other Vietnamese dishes at the Rene’s Saigon Restaurant on Rizal Avenue.

Bandi

Palawan is a major exporter of cashew nuts, so this list would not be complete without a cashew dessert. A crowd favorite is the bandi, which are cashew nuts encrusted in pakaskas or hardened brown sugar. Consider bringing this home as pasalubong.

Chicken Inasal

Chicken Inasal is a delicious grilled chicken dish. The chicken is marinated in a unique blend of spices and herbs, then grilled until done. Several restaurants in Palawan island serve this special grilled chicken dish and they are all very good.

See more: Palawan, the incredible paradise for a perfect getaway

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