My own Travel "Top 10"

Just like Chico Gracia, I’m doing my own “Top 10,” only this is a “Top 5.” This post actually comes in two parts. This first one is about my favorite destinations in the Philippines. The second one, which will feature the places in the Philippines I would most want to visit but never had been to, will come next month.

As I’ve said over and over again, the Philippines is a very beautiful country with so many beautiful places. So what are my favorites? Let’s start from No. 5 down to No. 1.

5.  Bohol: Aside from the fact that the beaches in this place are amazing (for me even better than those in Boracay), the culture in this place is also something to be proud. The place is green because they take care of the environment, and people are friendly. Even tricycles drivers must place an inspiring quote in their tricycles (as per the mayor’s orders)! More so, the sights are simply great!

4. Cagayan de Oro: CDO has something to offer for any kind of traveller…there’s adventure, there’s cultural, there’s spiritual. I’ve been to CDO two times, each was different. The first time was with my family; thus, the trip was more “touristy”. And I’m glad because we got to see the nearby spots. The second trip was with friends, so it was more of an adventure. Boy, it really was an adventure I will never forget. White water rafting was so much fun!

3. Puerto Galera: Rarely do I like a place full of people and tourists. I usually want to go to places where I can savor the sights and the environment. Puerto Galera was an exemption…and I can’t really pinpoint the reason for this. I guess I enjoyed its beaches, the “party” atmosphere (read: nobody cares what you are doing), and the fact that I came with my friends (I must say that Puerto Galera more of a “friend” place that a “family” place). Anywat, I had lots of fun snorkeling, riding the banana boat, “dining” in the numerous restaurants by the beach, and just hanging around!

2. Guinobatan, Albay, and Daet, Camarines Norte (both in Bicol): Because my mother grew up in Bicol (Guinobatan), my family and I have been going to Bicol since I was a kid. Ad because Paul is from Daet, another Bicol destination, another place has been added to the places in Bicol I regularly go to. I’ve been drawn to Bicol evere since because it is more of a personal place for me. I’ve always felt at home in this place and Ive come to love the people and culture of this province. Mayon is virtually our “wallpaper” in our house in Guinobatan, and Sorsogon is just hours away. In Daet, the beautiful Bagasbas beach (a site fir surfers) is just 10 minutes away. More than the sites, I guess it’s more of the people that makes me coming back to this place.

1.  Coron, Palawan: I know…I know…there is no need to eleborate on this one. I’ve done two posts on this place…both overly emphasizing the beauty if this place. Can’t say much more…HEAVEN!

There you have it…my  favorite places here in the Philippines. And though I may not decide to actually live in these place, they are the ones that I  would want to go back to again and again and again…

(Postscript: I just noticed that all of these places involve water. When I was a kid, I hated beaches…I think that, without my knowing it, I’ve been converted!)