Caraga | Philippines

Check out its under-the-radar destinations and you’ll soon wish that they do stay under the radar.
Mention Agusan del Norte, and its capital city – Cabadbaran – will most likely be overlooked. But it need not be, for this ancient district believed to have existed since 1,200 A.D is oozing with well-preserved old Spanish houses such as the gorgeous Atega Ancestral House. Cabadbaran’s archeological sites Brgy. Calibunan, Sanghan, La Union, Kauswagan and Caasinan are where remarkable artifacts were excavated. The bustling Butuan City is known for its museums and its iconic symbol – the traditional balangay boat and the Golden Tara of Esperanza.

Little do tourists know that in the windswept hills of Brgy. Bonbon is Delta Dicovery Park. Adventure in Butuan begins here – buggy rides, ATV, zipline, horseback riding, and even swimming is offered up there!
The landlocked province of Agusan del Sur rarely sees tourists but offers something surreal to those who are willing to uncover its bounties. Canoeing in the placid Agusan Marsh is every landscape photographer’s dream.  The rainbow-hued wild birds and animals here will also leave you in awe.

Then you don’t have to fly all the way to Palau just to swim with (stingless) jellyfish, because Sohoton National Park offers that! Head to Bucas Grande and be stunned by the caves, lagoons, and postcard-perfect coral life!
In Surigao del Norte, do not miss the tropical island clichés. Bask in the azure waters of Naked Island, Guyam Island and the fairest of them all – Daku Island. Try your hand in game fishing in Siargao and get stoked in Cloud 9 and General Luna.

Delve into the 24 islets rising from the seafloor in Surigao del Sur. Go gaga over Britania Group of Islands and Cagwait Beach. Be seduced by the fusion of deep turquoise and emerald waters of Enchanted River.  Get wet at the wide Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig City!

The ruggedly enchanting Dinagat Island is devoid of luxury trappings. Go explore its coastline lapped by golden and white sand. Rent a boat to take you to the rock formations emerging from the deep in Basilisa, Sundayo Beach, Pangabangan Island and Kisses Islet. Or dive into the crystal clear waters of Lake Bababu and Esperanza Spring and Ouano Lagoon.

Overwhelmed? There’s actually more to see and do.
In this region blessed with immaculate natural attractions and rich cultural heritage, the most intrepid travelers will be rewarded. Are you ready to unravel them?

South Central Mindanao | Philippines

In the 1930’s President Manuel Quezon deemed portions of this area a wild forest and pushed for resettlement in the provinces of Sarangani and South Cotabato. Homesteaders from Luzon and Mindanao arrived here carving vast tracks of farmland. The original groups that lived and toiled the land, the T’boli, Maguindanaon, Ubo, Blit, Blaan still live in the area although populations are not as large compared to the Hiligaynon, Cebuano and Ilocanos who have resettled the area in the early 1900’s and now call it home.

Today, you’ll see vast haciendas with plantations of rubber, pineapple, and other fruits. This is the place to go for some durian and mangosteen.
Learn about the lineage of Rajah’s in Cotabato, the seat of the 500-year old Maguindaaon sultanate. Mindanao is the only place in the country that follows this age-old system.
South Central Mindanao unravels with a history and culture that spans thousands of years. Check out Maitum and see 2,000-year old anthropomorphic terra cotta jars that you won’t find anywhere else in Southeast Asia.

See dreamweavers at work in Lake Sebu and discover why they only use black and red threads.
Using soil and old metal, try your hand at ancient brass casting in Cotabato and the T’boli heartland.
Learn of the great leader Sultan Kudarat in Isulan’s grand capitol building.
Pass through the coastal village of Inawan and be amazed at the golden dome of the Grand Mosque.
It’s a culture fest everyday with B’laan, Manobo, Maguindanaon, Ubo, T’boli, Teruray, Iranun, and Sangil indigenous groups, complete with their own traditional rituals, culture and governance. Don’t be surprised to hear different languages in each barangay you pass through!

Island-hop to the white sand beaches of Glan, Kalamansig, and Palembang. There are no crowds here—just you, the pristine waters, and the king of tuna—the Yellow Fin.
Looking for caves? There’s almost one in every town. And that goes for waterfalls too. Short, tall, big, small…they’re all here just waiting to be discovered, from Koronodal to Esperanza.
You can try hiking in the country’s tallest mountain too. Mt. Apo stands high above several provinces at 2,954 meters above sea level. Maybe you might even meet Haribon, the Philippine Eagle, face to face.
This region is waiting to be explored. And lots of towns have yet to be visited.

Davao | Philippines

Located in southeastern Mindanao, Davao offers diverse travel experiences set in lush natural landscapes — from fine white sand beaches to highlands with refreshing cool climates.

The region consists of the provinces of Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur and Davao Oriental. Davao City is the regional center, and its Francisco Bangoy International Airport is the third busiest airport in the country. The region is strategically situated outside the typhoon belt, making for a uniform distribution of rainfall throughout the year.

Davao is a melting pot of various cultures, which include minority indigenous groups such as the Bagobo, Mandaya, Mansaka, and Maguindanaos. The locals, who refer to themselves as Dabawenyos and Dabawenyas, are a friendly bunch who shares a fierce pride in their home and heritage.

The area, particularly Davao City, also has a Japanese influence as it was the residence of many Japanese immigrants prior to World War II. Among the local languages spoken are Dinabaw, Visayan, as well as Filipino and English.

This unique mix of diversity, both in landscape and in culture, makes the Davao region a must-visit.

Fill your itinerary with trips to its progressive cities or explorations of its small towns that hide attractions of their own. Get a taste of things you won’t find anywhere else, whether it’s scaling the highest peak in the Philippines, admiring rare flora and fauna up-close, or even sampling creative dishes that incorporate the smelly but well-loved durian.

Whether you prefer islets that vanish or mountains that dominate skylines, Davao makes good on its promise and always delivers adventure.

Northern Mindanao | Philippines

Northern Mindanao’s topography is varied. There are plains, forests, mountains, hills and coastal areas. The area supports agriculture and aquaculture. The soil is rich in minerals. There are hydro-electric plants to provide a steady supply of electricity. Northern Mindanao has a wealth of natural resources.

Although Mindanao was never fully conquered by Spain, traces of Catholic influence can be seen throughout the region: the site of the first Christian settlement in Bayug, Lanao del Norte; the Monastery of the Transfiguration (home of an impressive boys’ choir) in Malaybalay; and the Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral (famous locally for its giant pipe organ) in Ozamiz.

The area’s cuisine has a strong Malay influence. Seafood is a staple. Spices – such as turmeric, garlic, ginger, roasted coconut, and chilies – are used liberally.

The region’s attractions are a mix of the historical, the natural, and the man-made. There are several beaches good for diving and snorkeling. You can go on mountain climbing expeditions. For the more adventurous, there’s rappelling in Katibawasan Falls. You can even see the fierce Philippine Eagle up close. Or go squid fishing and visit the Giant Clams Ocean Nursery in Kantaan, Guinsiliban.

Zamboanga Peninsula | Philippines

The Zamboanga Peninsula is Mindanao’s smallest region. Located in Southwest Philippines, its 958 islands and islets make up the Diadem of the Philippine South. Two bodies of water form a ring around it – the Sulu Sea to the north and west, the Moro Gulf to the south.
Three provinces and five cities make up the Zamboanga Peninsula Region — the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay; and the cities of Dapitan, Dipolog, Pagadian, Zamboanga City, and Isabela. Zamboanga, Pagadian, and Dipolog are the major hubs of trade, commerce, industry, and education in the region.

The region hosts one freeport and special economic zone and an international airport in Zamboanga City.  Ten other secondary airports operate in the region.

About a third of the Peninsula’s population is made up of ethnic communities that give the region its unique culture and color.  These include the Tausugs, Samals, Yakans, Badjaos, and Subanens. The Tausugs, Badjaos, and Samals were fishermen; some still roam the seas. The Maranaos and Yakans were traders and artisans; they’ve left their imprint on traditional weaves and fabric that are still produced today.
Roughly half of the population speaks Chabacano, a dialect heavily influenced by Spanish settlers. Spanish-speakers are sure to pick up on quite a few familiar words.

Each part of the Zamboanga Peninsula shines on its own, but there is a common heritage. This is a region of beauty, history and culture. It’s been blessed by nature. It is cherished by its people.

This is what the early Chinese and Malays saw when they came over and made Zamboanga the cynosure of Southern Philippines centuries ago. Up to today, the Zamboanga Peninsula has an undeniable allure.

Eastern Visayas | Philippines

The region consists of the provinces of Biliran, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Northern Samar, Samar and Southern Leyte and the cities of Baybay, Borongan, Calbayog, Catbalogan, Maasin, Ormoc and Tacloban. Tacloban City is its regional center. The local climate varies between wet and wetter — the region’s perpetually lush landscapes reveal the absence of a real dry season.

Majority of the locals here are Waray and speak Waray-Waray. Warays are descendants of Austronesian migrants who settled in the Philippines in the Iron Age. In 1521, they became the first Filipinos encountered by Europeans, care of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan. They subsequently became one of the first local groups to convert to Christianity. Notable Warays include Former First Lady Imelda Marcos and statesman Norberto Romuáldez.

The region remains relatively under-the-radar compared to other tourist destinations in the Philippines, but this is slowly changing. More and more people troop here in pursuit of rugged coasts and landscapes, secret caves and waterfalls, and fascinating histories — as well as the company of people content with the simple life, happy to enjoy the bounty of nature.

Central Visayas | Philippines

The region is made up of the provinces of Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental and Siquijor, and the cities of Cebu, Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue. Cebu City is the economic center for Region VII and for the whole Visayas.
The Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Lapu-Lapu City is the second-busiest airport in the Philippines, offering international flights to other key Asian cities.

The local climate is fairly consistent — it is wet year-round, except for a brief dry season from March to May.

A majority of the locals are Cebuano. Cebuanos are descendants of Austronesian migrants who settled around 30,000 years ago and now comprise the second-biggest ethno-linguistic group in the Philippines.
Although Cebuano is the primary language spoken, many also speak Boholano, Siquijodnon, English and Tagalog.

Famous Cebuanos include former Philippine president Sergio Osmeña, Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales and former Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr.

Given its accessibility and wide array of activities, you can travel the region however you want. Go for the bustling atmosphere of Cebu or the sedate and scholarly airs of Dumaguete.
Lounge in the sun-kissed shores of Mactan and Panglao, or swim the secluded waters of the Bantayan, Malapascua and Camotes islands.

Fall for the world-famous attractions of Bohol or the mysterious allure of Siquijor. For all its contradictions — maybe even because of them — the Central Visayas region has something for everyone.

Western Visayas | Philippines

Region six is home to the world-renowned beach of Boracay, and some of the country’s top festivals — Dinagyang, Masskara, and Ati-Atihan. This is a place of color and excitement!
Aklan province is more than just Boracay. Unravel the treasures of the municipality of Buruanga — uncharted dive sites in Batabat Coral Reef and palm-fringed beaches in Malalison Island included. Explore hidden caves clad by dense jungles. Plunge into waterfalls. Visit the Kalibo Piña Village and see how locals turn plant fibers into stunning clothing.

The island of Antique (pronunced an-TEE-keh) has a raw appeal. Despite its prime coastal location, it isn’t on most tourists’ radars. It’s a shame. Antique is flanked by marine reserves, pastoral land, individual mountains, lush jungles and sleepy fishing towns. It’s a great place for people looking for a laidback escape.
Guimaras has clear blue waters, sun-kissed beaches, and a serene vibe. Discover the countless cave formations that lie hidden in its jungles and mountains. Take a refreshing dip in its cold springs.  And in between lounging and exploring, bite into some of the world’s sweetest mangoes.

76 sacks of coins were melted to make the bells of Capiz — the biggest bells in Southeast Asia. Capiz is also the birthplace of the first president of the independent Philippines — Manuel Roxas. This sleepy province has several caves, including the lengthy Suhot Cave, the massive Quipot Cave, and the ancient burial site of Pilar.

The province of Iloilo has signs of its history all over the place. Explore the stunning beaches off Carles and Estancia, and the pine trees and rice terraces in the highlands of Leon and Igbaras.

Bacolod City, the capital of Negros Occidental, hosts the impossibly joyful Masskara Festival every year. It may be the defining image of the province, but it’s not the only great thing about it. Fall in love all over again at The Ruins in Talisay. Wander through the ancestral houses of Silay in the north. Lounge on the beaches of the south. Head to Danjugan Island, and get closer to nature.

Western Visayas is on the beaten track, but it’s still a joy to visit. Enjoy what it has to offer, and seek out its undiscovered attractions.

Bicol | Philippines

“Bicolandia” is made up the provinces of Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes and Masbate. You can find it at the southern tip of the island of Luzon. Bicol is one of the Philippines’ best-known tourist destinations. Some of its more famous treasures are the gentle butanding whale sharks of Donsol, the fierce and fiery Mayon Volcano and Bulusan Volcano, and the popular Cam Sur Watersports Complex (CWC).

It’s best to get into shape before visiting. You never know what adventures are in store.
Wind-and-kitesurfers will enjoy Bagasbas Beach in Daet. Beach lovers might enjoy visiting the surrounding islets, not missing out on the Calaguas Islands of Camarines Norte.

While the Survivor and Amazing Race television series have put places like Caramoan and Albay on the world adventure map, the less known islands of Calintaan (in Sorsogon), Sombrero (in Masbate), San Miguel (also in Masbate), and Misibis (in Albay) are just as enchanting.
And the people make it even better.

Bicol locals are an interesting mix of laid back and outspoken. They enjoy holding colorful water parades, are proud of their centuries-old stone churches, and will fire up your palate with their delicious spicy specialties.

This is also a land of hemp, locally known as abaca. Coal, limestone and sulfur also abound. As Bicol is by the water, fishing is a big source of income. Watersports isn’t recommended during the rainy season (November to January), but summer (February to June) is a great time to sure to hit the beach.

MIMAROPA | Philippines

The name of this region is an acronym that combines the names of its provinces: Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan.

Some of its islands take some effort to get to, but this contributes to their allure. Virgin forests, secluded beaches, thriving marine life, beautiful waterfalls, magical caves, and warm people will make your trip special.

There’s an enchantment to this region, especially underwater. Above land you’ll find simple towns, delicious seafood, and the quiet, laid-back island life that the people of MIMAROPA have had for centuries.

With its National Parks, World Heritage Sites, protected marine areas and even wild safari parks, the MIMAROPA region is definitely something different. You won’t find big cities, bustling highways, or traffic jams here. You will find rugged roads, palm-fringed beaches, and peace and serenity.

Calabarzon | Philippines

It might just be an hour or two away, but the diverse topography and varied natural attractions make this region interesting. Beaches and dive spots. Forests and caves. Mountains and hills. Waterfalls and hot springs. It’s all here. This is the home of Laguna de Bay – the country’s largest freshwater lake. It also boasts of Taal Lake, which contains the world’s smallest active volcano.

Because of its proximity to the  national capital, CALABARZON has seen steady industrial growth and urbanization in recent years. But the local culture is still very much alive. Historical landmarks, monuments, old churches, and shrines dot the region’s landscape.

The area is rich in history. It’s where the Philippines’ independence from Spain was first declared in 1898. It’s the birthplace of national heroes such as Jose Rizal (from Calamba, Laguna), Emilio Aguinaldo (from Kawit, Cavite), Apolinario Mabini (from Tanauan, Batangas) and Miguel Malvar (from Sto. Tomas, Batangas).

CALABARZON is also rich in cultural traditions. Laguna is known for embroidery, wood carving, and papier-mâché (locally known as taka). Quezon has harvest festivals and flamboyantly decorated houses. Rizal has artisan villages and art galleries. It’s a colorful region.

Central Luzon | Philippines

Known as the fertile central plains, the rice basket of the Philippines, Central Luzon produces most of the country’s dining staple: rice.  And because of this abundance of rice and vegetables, the cuisine is simply superb—from the Kapangpangan biringhe and sisig to Bulacan sweets!

Central Luzon is also one of the earliest areas converted into Christianity by the Spanish 50 years after conquistador Hernando Magallanes first stepped on Philippine soil. Not without a fight though.  Pampanga, whose original lair extended almost the entire Region 3, was once part of the Kingdom of Tondo, dating back to a bygone era when Rajas ruled. These provinces further gave birth to noble heroes who fought for freedom against oppressors—all three major world super powers in the span of 500 years. You’ll find medieval churches here that stand not only as architectural masterpieces, but witnesses to a dramatic history. There is the Baler Church, a 17^th century building that served as the last Spanish bastion in the Philippines. And then there is the Barasoain Church in Bulacan. An earthquake baroque structure honed from adobe and lime, it saw the signing of the Fist Philippine Republic and the first democratic constitution in Asia.

Culture here is number one and there are incredible fiestas that reflect each town’s distinct culture, from the Giant Lantern Parade in San Fernando, Pampanga, to the Fertility Rites in Obando, Bulacan.  For stunning nature, the province of Aurora has a stunning 328-kilometer coastline where beach and surf rule.  In San Jose, Tarlac, right before the Monastario de Tarlac, experience whitewater kayaking in Bulsa river!  Mt. Pinatubo, which straddles Pampanga, Zambales, and Tarlac is quite a sight, especially when you get to the neon-blue caldera lake via Sta. Juliana, Capas, Tarlac.

Whatever you’re looking for, whether it’s a one-day food trip or several days of adventure, head for Central Luzon. It’s closer than you think.

Cagayan Valley | Philippines

If you prefer to go off the beaten path, this province is the place to go. There’s a wealth of natural attractions on and around Cagayan Valley’s towering mountains. Sta. Ana and Claveria in Cagayan have dramatic coastlines and unspoiled white sand beaches. Batanes is a less-kept secret that has been a mecca for landscape photographers for the longest time. The Ivatan’s stone houses and culture also add to the island’s raw appeal. Divilican, Maconacon, Dinapigue and Palanan are as un-commercial as it gets. And you’re sure to learn a lot from the Dumagats, a local semi-nomadic indigenous group. Nueva Vizcaya lives up to the local slogan of “Adventure Begins Here.” And Paraiso Tribu Vizcayano really is an adventure paradise. Cauayan boasts of colossal agricultural lands and pastoral enclaves, while Santiago City is a melting pot of diverse religions and ethnic groups. And then there’s idyllic Quirino, full of majestic waterfalls and stunning cave systems.
To explore Cagayan Valley is to go a chain of adventures in a place where history, culture and nature converge. It seems too good to be true. But Cagayan Valley is the place to engage in all your adventure fantasies.

Ilocos Region | Philippines

Region 1 or the Ilocos Region is composed of four provinces and a city - Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, and Dagupan City. What binds this area together is the language, Ilocano. The third largest spoken language in the Philippines, it is spoken by roughly 8 million people.

The region has a coast and hilly ranges that are prone to typhoon in the wet months, but devastatingly hot during the dry season. This is the backdrop of Ilocano food. It’s salty due to the proximity to the sea. There is even an entire province named after asin (salt) in Pangasinan. Fish is preserved by drying, and of course, reduced into a paste or sauce by fermentation.

Vegetables are hardy and can weather the rains or extreme heat. Thus, you have dishes like pinakbet or dinengdeng—locally sourced vegetable, flavored with fish paste.
Locals have a penchant for crunchy things too — like the corn snack, chichacorn; the delectable longganisa-stuffed empanada; and the deliciously deadly bagnet—cured and fried pieces of pork belly!

There are a lot of natural highlights here too.
Take the Hundred Islands National Park, for instance.  There are 123 islands, each with its own little eco-system. Some say these islands are 2 million years old. Imagine hiking through a limestone formation that has seen the dawn of man.

Love basking on the sand? The coast provides a colorful array of it from the greyest of grey to the white beaches of Pagudpud. There’s even one beach that is just pure pebble.
Many of these beaches cater to tourists, like the surfing areas of San Juan in La Union. But take a while to get lost, and you’ll still find hidden gems in small towns.

Architectural masterpieces? There are three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ilocos Sur alone.
In Vigan, there are 187 documented examples of period architecture. It’s like traveling 500 years back. And in every town, you’ll find ancient churches—even older than the Missions of California.

For the artist in you, take your time to learn the tedious process of weaving abel. During the colonial area, abel was so famous, it almost destroyed Spain’s textile industry. According to specialists, it was used as sail cloths for the galleons and was comparable to Belgian linen. Abel was originally used from the time one was born ‘til one’s death, from baby blanket to death robe. And for all other occasions in between.
Take some time to plot out your itinerary, because it can be overwhelming. You can tailor your own food trip, architectural escapade, adventure tour or just relax along the West Philippine Sea. But make sure to leave some time for the most important part of your journey—getting lost and hanging with the locals.

Cordillera Administrative Region | Philippines

From the Central Cordillera Mountain Range, the largest in the Philippines, six provinces and one chartered city make up the Cordillera Administrative Region—Apayao, Abra, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, and Baguio City.

Here, a whole other culture, or shall we say a set of cultures, awaits. From Benguet’s Kankanaey to the Ifugao and Kalinga to the Isneg in Apayao, the ethnic groups here are distinct. Each town has its own language or dialect.

Baguio is the main entry point to the region, and was made famous by the American colonizers who built this city in the early 1900’s, in the Ibaloi settlement of Kafagway.  Today, the city is on everyone’s summer itinerary, making it the “Summer Capital of the Philippines.”

Interested in unconventional cultural artifacts? Check out Banaue and Kiangan to view the payo or rice terraces. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the five clusters of sculpted rice fields are just a few of the types of terraces you can explore in the Cordillera region.

Nearby is Sagada in Mountain Province. Famous for its hanging coffins and limestone caves, this town is a must destination for backpackers.  Photographer Masferre’s Sagada may be a thing of the past, and gone are the days of wearing the falaka (bachelor’s basket hat) and akosan (shell belt bag), but the town retains a highland culture with a dash of worldly charm.

If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush, why not white water raft?

The Chico River is 174 kilometers long, spans several provinces and offers crazy dips and turns through gorges and canyons. If you want to try and ride it, your jump-off point will be Kalinga.

The Apayao River is another destination and caters to those looking for a new rafting hotspot. While Abra, with its Libtec Underground River, is just waiting to be explored.

The highlands of the Philippines have much more to offer than just cool weather and some pine trees. Whether its nature, culture, or just the thrill of finding something new, it’s definitely worth exploring, one province at a time.

NCR National Capital Region | Philippines

Also known as the National Capital Region, Metro Manila consists of the cities of Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Manila, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Pasay, Pasig, Quezon, San Juan, Taguig, Valenzuela, and Pateros.

Like to party? Dance the night away in the clubs of Taguig. Or indulge in world-class cuisine in Makati. Up for a cultural escapade? Visit San Agustin Church in Intramuros, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or check out Metal Age relics such as the manunggul jar in the National Museum. How about shopping? You can bargain your way through Greenhills and come home with a set of gorgeous South Sea pearls. shop in air-conditioned comfort at the SM Mall of Asia and SM Megamall. Need some fresh air? Walk around La Mesa Dam or take a breather by Manila Bay. Take in the sounds of a Bamboo Organ or a karaoke machine. And make sure to try balut if you see it on the streets.