For four decades, the Miss Universe crown has been elusive and thought to be a myth until today. Miss Philippines Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach finally stole the limelight and emerged as this year's Miss Universe.
To celebrate Filipino world class beauty, here is a list of some wonderful places in the Philippines that one can be truly proud off.
To celebrate Filipino world class beauty, here is a list of some wonderful places in the Philippines that one can be truly proud off.
El Nido, Palawan
El Nido is in itself heaven on earth, with its glittering waters and limestone islands that seem to float as if by magic. Choose your destination among its many islands then ride your boat to the Big Lagoon where you might share a reef with a sea turtle. Conde Nast Traveler named El Nido as the most beautiful island in the world.
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| El Nido, Palawan - Photo by Chamee Pecson of Misslitratista.com |
Boracay, Aklan
Aah, Boracay. That not-so-hidden gem of an island with powdery white sand beaches and clear azure waters. Boracay offers the best of both worlds, whether you prefer a serene stay lounging on the beach or a feisty bar hopping night in its bar district. Don’t forget to try out the waters; swim and dive to your heart’s content.
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| Boracay Beach |
Batanes
The province of Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines. It is the smallest province in the country in terms of land area and population. The island province of Batanes is composed of 6 municipalities : Basco, Mahatao, Ivana, Uyugan, Sabtang and Itbayat.
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| Marlboro Country, Batanes |
Davao
From climbing the highest peaks of Mount Apo to diving the deep waters of Samal Island, Davao offers every summer activity imaginable. Drop by for a visit to the kings of wildlife, the Philippine Eagle, in its home base in the Philippine Eagle Center, and Pangil, the largest crocodile in the Crocodile Park. You can also enjoy a relaxing day at the Garden of Eden Restored in the mountain of Tamayong.
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| Garden of Eden Restored, Davao City |
Cebu
The Queen City of the South, Cebu is a wonderful pick for a vacation. There’s nothing that can disappoint you when you reach Cebu. The people are friendly and the city and resorts have all the commodities that you need. There are also many destinations to choose from in the island, all of them rich in culture, history and natural beauty.
Tiamban Beach, Romblon
Tiamban is very accessible from the town of Romblon, but still manages to be very private and secluded. Enjoy peace and quiet along the gentle shores. There are available rooms to spend the night in, but we suggest you try camping under the clear night skies of Romblon.
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| Tiamban Beach, Romblon |
Siargao
Brace yourselves, surfing junkies, because Siargao is the place to be if you want to catch a wave. But it’s not only the waves that define Siargao, there are also dive sites and tidal pools around that you can explore. Try the shallow waters and rock formations in Magpupungko for starters.
Islas de Gigantes, Iloilo
Islas de Gigantes is a group of islands which is part of the municipality of Carles in the Iloilo province. Although it is part of Carles, the most popular jump-off point is the town of Estancia as there are a lot of boats which regularly go to Islas de Gigantes. Enjoy a day of island hopping, swimming and snorkeling when you visit Islas de Gigantes.
Zamboanga
Located at the tip of Zamboanga Peninsula, Zamboanga City is one of the most progressive cities in Mindanao. It is labelled as “Asia’s Latin City” because of its Spanish-influenced Chavacano dialect – dating back to the Spanish era in the 1600's. Today, Zamboanga City continues to attract travelers who want to experience the city's interesting dialect, Spanish inspired dishes offered in may restaurants, beautiful beaches, and many other historical and natural attractions.
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| Regatta de Zamboanga |
Coron
If you like adventure, Coron is one of the places in the Philippines you should explore. Its Kayangan Lake is considered to be the cleanest in the country. It has crystal clear water which make it an ideal place to go snorkeling and diving.
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| Coron Island Cove. Photo by POTW_MichelleELLA01, Flickr Creative Commons |
Bohol
When you talk about Bohol, you’ll immediately think Tarsier, Chocolate Hills, and the Loboc River Cruise. But Bohol is also home to up and coming Panglao Beach, which has garnered a following of its own. Its waters are clear, its beaches are great, and the food is good, too.
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| Bohol Rice Terraces |
Sagada
Sagada in Mountain Province is a stark contrast from urbanized Baguio. Nature activities abound whether you’re trekking the mountains to see the hanging coffins, climbing the stepped rice fields, or spelunking in the limestone caves. Don’t pass the opportunity to witness local customs, as the locals have ceremonies for life events like weddings, planting, and harvesting rice.
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| Sagada |
Vigan
About 400 kilometers from Manila is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vigan. It is the capital city of Ilocos Sur and has recently been declared as one of the New Seven Wonder Cities (N7WC) of the world.
Banaue
One of the nine (9) towns of Ifugao Province, Banaue is one of the Philippines' most popular tourist destinations for local and foreign travelers. Its Rice Terraces is considered as the "Eighth Wonder of the World" and declared as a World Heritage Site of UNESCO.
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| Banaue Rice Terraces, WIkipedia Creative Commons - Agricmarketing |
Ilocos Norte
Ilocos Norte is one of the most visited places in the Northern Luzon. Not only it is popular for its beaches, Ilocos Norte also has cultural environmental sights. Drive around to see Cape Bojeador, the Bangui Windmills, Kapurpurawan Rock formation, the scenic route of Patapat Viaduct and the white sand beaches of Pagudpud.
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| Kapurpurawan Rock Formation |
