PTA gears for Boracay sewerage expansion By Glenrose BORACAY ISLAND: The Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) is setting up necessary infrastructures to spur tourism and preserve the natural environment of the country's premier tourist destination. Aklan Rep. Florencio Mira-flores said the ...
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Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Go dancing each day the Panglao way
SITTING at the foot of Bohol just a short sea-trip from Cebu, Panglao Island has already proved itself to be the new playground of the Philippines...and thousands (if not millions) of dollars of investment money is being poured in to develop the island.
Already it has twice helped Bohol to win the Tourist Destination of the Year contest in the Philippines and hopes to help a third time at the Manila trade exhibition this September when it showcases the beauty of its beaches.
There are even plans approved by President Gloria Arroyo to develop a domestic airport on the island to take over from Tagbilaran Airport, with the intention to upgrade it to international status at some time in the future, to make it easier for the island's thousands of visitors to reach the coral-white sandy shores which surround it on all sides.
There are resorts dotted all around the sandy shores of the island, which connects to mainland Bohol at Tagbilaran and Bool via two road bridges, and each resort is situated in its own grounds on the edge of a sapphire sea.
Already well-known by scuba divers for the diversity of its fish life in the off-islands of Pamilacan, Balicasag and Pungtod, which are easily reached from the main resort area of Alona Beach, the rest of the island is also developing with top-class resorts: Land has already been put aside for a new Tourism Estate.
The off-islands sport hammerhead sharks, some rays, massive schools of jackfish and barracudas, and there are resident dolphins playing just off the beaches, plus (in the right season) whale-sharks. It is also well-known for the inordinate number of nudibranch and pygmy fish (including seahorses) which inhabit the coral reefs on its southern side.
Bohol itself takes pride in Panglao Island, although sometimes other towns in the area become a little jealous - especially since Panglao town itself has won the prestigious street dancing competition in Tagbilaran's Sandugo four times in a row, the only two in the history of Bohol to do so. Now the island town has been asked to 'take a rest' for a while by the Sandugo Foundation to give another town on Bohol a chance to win!
The 'dance capital' of Panglao is not too worried: the Sandugo street festival in July is only the live rehearsal for its' own major event - the Hudyaka sa Panglao which takes place on August 28th every year in the grounds of its parish church. Then the ten barangays of the municipality compete fiercely with each other to see which is the best of the best.
Its' own dance festival brings back ex-Panglao residents from all over the world, and instead of making a day of it, the music and dance lovers of Panglao try and make a whole week of it...and more. Actually, they take nine days and the whole town has a festive atmosphere with parties all over the place.
The big party starts off in earnest at 2pm every August 28th when several hundred dancers and their accompanying bands with their distinctive beat queue up outside the Municipal Hall to dance and parade their way to the grounds of San Agustin Church, where the 'real' party is held on the green. Now the people of Bohol can really see what they have missed out on by telling them to 'take a breather!'
A funfair atmosphere is already in motion - and has been for days! - and the dancers entertain until well past sunset to compete for the 'best of the best' prize.
About the Author
Philippine Wide provides quick information on traveling in the Philippines. Philippine Travel Guide, Restaurant Reservation, Diving Spots, Best Spa and Beach Resorts Reservation Services - Reservation Services for Boracay and other destinations in the country.
Already it has twice helped Bohol to win the Tourist Destination of the Year contest in the Philippines and hopes to help a third time at the Manila trade exhibition this September when it showcases the beauty of its beaches.
There are even plans approved by President Gloria Arroyo to develop a domestic airport on the island to take over from Tagbilaran Airport, with the intention to upgrade it to international status at some time in the future, to make it easier for the island's thousands of visitors to reach the coral-white sandy shores which surround it on all sides.
There are resorts dotted all around the sandy shores of the island, which connects to mainland Bohol at Tagbilaran and Bool via two road bridges, and each resort is situated in its own grounds on the edge of a sapphire sea.
Already well-known by scuba divers for the diversity of its fish life in the off-islands of Pamilacan, Balicasag and Pungtod, which are easily reached from the main resort area of Alona Beach, the rest of the island is also developing with top-class resorts: Land has already been put aside for a new Tourism Estate.
The off-islands sport hammerhead sharks, some rays, massive schools of jackfish and barracudas, and there are resident dolphins playing just off the beaches, plus (in the right season) whale-sharks. It is also well-known for the inordinate number of nudibranch and pygmy fish (including seahorses) which inhabit the coral reefs on its southern side.
Bohol itself takes pride in Panglao Island, although sometimes other towns in the area become a little jealous - especially since Panglao town itself has won the prestigious street dancing competition in Tagbilaran's Sandugo four times in a row, the only two in the history of Bohol to do so. Now the island town has been asked to 'take a rest' for a while by the Sandugo Foundation to give another town on Bohol a chance to win!
The 'dance capital' of Panglao is not too worried: the Sandugo street festival in July is only the live rehearsal for its' own major event - the Hudyaka sa Panglao which takes place on August 28th every year in the grounds of its parish church. Then the ten barangays of the municipality compete fiercely with each other to see which is the best of the best.
Its' own dance festival brings back ex-Panglao residents from all over the world, and instead of making a day of it, the music and dance lovers of Panglao try and make a whole week of it...and more. Actually, they take nine days and the whole town has a festive atmosphere with parties all over the place.
The big party starts off in earnest at 2pm every August 28th when several hundred dancers and their accompanying bands with their distinctive beat queue up outside the Municipal Hall to dance and parade their way to the grounds of San Agustin Church, where the 'real' party is held on the green. Now the people of Bohol can really see what they have missed out on by telling them to 'take a breather!'
A funfair atmosphere is already in motion - and has been for days! - and the dancers entertain until well past sunset to compete for the 'best of the best' prize.
About the Author
Philippine Wide provides quick information on traveling in the Philippines. Philippine Travel Guide, Restaurant Reservation, Diving Spots, Best Spa and Beach Resorts Reservation Services - Reservation Services for Boracay and other destinations in the country.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Philippine Travel: When and Where
Be aware that the experiences you’re about to encounter is unlike anything you’d encounter anywhere else in the world. Each and every country has its own unique experience to offer you and when you travel to the Philippines, you should expect the same.
When Is It Best To Travel To The Philippines?
Are you allergic to rain? If so, it would do you good to avoid traveling to this part of Southeast Asia during the months of June till November as that’s when the occasional typhoon or two makes time to visit the Philippines. Traveling during the rainy season of the Philippines can be quite a hassle, especially if you don’t have a car. But if you do, you could expect smaller crowds to contend with as most people tend to stay indoors.
If you’re unable to take the heat and still be merry, then you should not travel to the Philippines during the months of March till May because that’s officially the summer season of the country. Everyone head for the nearest beach so if you don’t want to feel crowded when you’re sunbathing, set your travel date for another time of the year. The Easter season is always busy for everyone in the Philippines so expect a difficult time on reserving transportation when it’s Holy Week.
If you’re on the lookout for the world-famous fiestas that only the Philippines could offer, schedule your travel date for January, May or December. The flower season of Baguio – described as the summer capital of the Philippines because of its perennially cool weather – is something to look forward to. And then there’s the Santacruzan during May and which each and every town parades its most beautiful residents in a walk around town.
Where In The Philippines Is It Best To Travel To?
There are so many types of places to visit in the Philippines that it’s hard to enumerate each and every one of them. Beaches, however, are one of the most favorite travel spots of the country so if you want to enjoy your stay in a beautiful paradise of clear blue green water and cool white sand, you could check out Tali Beach, the world-famous Boracay or try surfing the secluded beaches of Surigao and La Union.
John Grant has been living in the Philippines for 5 years and has travelled the country extensively. His online Philippines Travel Guide covers major destinations like Boracay Puerto Galera and Palawan.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Grant
When Is It Best To Travel To The Philippines?
Are you allergic to rain? If so, it would do you good to avoid traveling to this part of Southeast Asia during the months of June till November as that’s when the occasional typhoon or two makes time to visit the Philippines. Traveling during the rainy season of the Philippines can be quite a hassle, especially if you don’t have a car. But if you do, you could expect smaller crowds to contend with as most people tend to stay indoors.
If you’re unable to take the heat and still be merry, then you should not travel to the Philippines during the months of March till May because that’s officially the summer season of the country. Everyone head for the nearest beach so if you don’t want to feel crowded when you’re sunbathing, set your travel date for another time of the year. The Easter season is always busy for everyone in the Philippines so expect a difficult time on reserving transportation when it’s Holy Week.
If you’re on the lookout for the world-famous fiestas that only the Philippines could offer, schedule your travel date for January, May or December. The flower season of Baguio – described as the summer capital of the Philippines because of its perennially cool weather – is something to look forward to. And then there’s the Santacruzan during May and which each and every town parades its most beautiful residents in a walk around town.
Where In The Philippines Is It Best To Travel To?
There are so many types of places to visit in the Philippines that it’s hard to enumerate each and every one of them. Beaches, however, are one of the most favorite travel spots of the country so if you want to enjoy your stay in a beautiful paradise of clear blue green water and cool white sand, you could check out Tali Beach, the world-famous Boracay or try surfing the secluded beaches of Surigao and La Union.
John Grant has been living in the Philippines for 5 years and has travelled the country extensively. His online Philippines Travel Guide covers major destinations like Boracay Puerto Galera and Palawan.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Grant
Traveling in the Philippines
GENERAL INFORMATION: The Philippines has 7,107 islands. It stretches from the south of China to the Northern tip of Borneo. The unique Filipino culture was molded by several mixtures of foreign influences like Spanish, Americans and Japanese. The country has over a hundred ethnic groups.
In the Philippines, a tourist can find a lot of international golf courses, luxury beach resorts, 5 star hotels, many large and modern shopping malls especially in Manila, Casinos, disco's and bars with live bands and karaoke.
Filipinos are fun loving people. Fun and laughter come naturally no matter what there station in life. Music and dancing are part of the Filipino culture.
SPECIFIC INFORMATION:
Passport/Visa Information
A visa is required for some nationals except by transit passengers. For stays of less than 21 days, no visas are required, provided travelers have a valid passport, good for at least one year and onward tickets departing the Philippines.
For inquiries, contact the Visa Division, Department of Foreign Affairs (Telephone numbers 834-4854 to 53, 834-4961).
Currency:
Peso (Php); Exchange: Large commercial and central bank dealers in Manila. Always use authorized money changers or banks in Manila Metro area. Credit cards are accepted in larger cities. US dollar checks are the preferred currency at over 800 ATM locations.
Language:
The Philippines is considered the third largest ENGLISH SPEAKING country in the world. Filipino and English are the two official languages. Close to 100 other languages, not just dialects are spoken. Indeed, most of the major languages like Tagalog, Ilocano, Cebuano, Ilongo, Bicolano and Waray have their own dialects. Still, travelers will not find it difficult as many Filipinos still retain a handy comprehension of English.
Transportation:
Manila is connected to the rest of the country by regular flights of Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines and Asian Spirit and Southeast Asian Airlines (SEAIR).
Public transportation like buses, taxis, jeepneys and tricycle are available throughout the country. Car rentals are also available and it’s cheaper to rent it with a driver than without.
Communication:
Mobile phones are widely used throughout the country. Filipinos love text messaging. Pay phones are available especially in the malls and public places. Internet café can be found throughout the country.
Food and Drinks:
Fast foods are found along most major road intersection.
Weather:
Tropical climate. Jun-Sept is the rainy season, Oct-Feb is the cool dry season. Mar-May is usually hot and dry. Some typhoons between June and Sept.
Michael Ray Johnson http://hastravel.com/
Michael Johnson is a professional consultant and HAS TRAVEL pioneer. He began at MCI Communications, where he worked in the Western Region Control Center as a technical network troubleshooter. When the wireless revolution began, he moved to LA Cellular Telephone (now ATT Wireless), and developed one of the first ever, automated Network Management Systems. Later he accepted consulting positions in both Hong Kong and the Philippines, where he worked for 9 years as Project Consultant, managing the build out of two highly successful, wireless telephone networks. Mike’s responsibilities include Service Development, Technical Integration and Project Management. He is a licensed helicopter pilot, who studied Business Management and Information Technology at the University of Phoenix, Arizona and TJ College, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Jonson
In the Philippines, a tourist can find a lot of international golf courses, luxury beach resorts, 5 star hotels, many large and modern shopping malls especially in Manila, Casinos, disco's and bars with live bands and karaoke.
Filipinos are fun loving people. Fun and laughter come naturally no matter what there station in life. Music and dancing are part of the Filipino culture.
SPECIFIC INFORMATION:
Passport/Visa Information
A visa is required for some nationals except by transit passengers. For stays of less than 21 days, no visas are required, provided travelers have a valid passport, good for at least one year and onward tickets departing the Philippines.
For inquiries, contact the Visa Division, Department of Foreign Affairs (Telephone numbers 834-4854 to 53, 834-4961).
Currency:
Peso (Php); Exchange: Large commercial and central bank dealers in Manila. Always use authorized money changers or banks in Manila Metro area. Credit cards are accepted in larger cities. US dollar checks are the preferred currency at over 800 ATM locations.
Language:
The Philippines is considered the third largest ENGLISH SPEAKING country in the world. Filipino and English are the two official languages. Close to 100 other languages, not just dialects are spoken. Indeed, most of the major languages like Tagalog, Ilocano, Cebuano, Ilongo, Bicolano and Waray have their own dialects. Still, travelers will not find it difficult as many Filipinos still retain a handy comprehension of English.
Transportation:
Manila is connected to the rest of the country by regular flights of Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines and Asian Spirit and Southeast Asian Airlines (SEAIR).
Public transportation like buses, taxis, jeepneys and tricycle are available throughout the country. Car rentals are also available and it’s cheaper to rent it with a driver than without.
Communication:
Mobile phones are widely used throughout the country. Filipinos love text messaging. Pay phones are available especially in the malls and public places. Internet café can be found throughout the country.
Food and Drinks:
Fast foods are found along most major road intersection.
Weather:
Tropical climate. Jun-Sept is the rainy season, Oct-Feb is the cool dry season. Mar-May is usually hot and dry. Some typhoons between June and Sept.
Michael Ray Johnson http://hastravel.com/
Michael Johnson is a professional consultant and HAS TRAVEL pioneer. He began at MCI Communications, where he worked in the Western Region Control Center as a technical network troubleshooter. When the wireless revolution began, he moved to LA Cellular Telephone (now ATT Wireless), and developed one of the first ever, automated Network Management Systems. Later he accepted consulting positions in both Hong Kong and the Philippines, where he worked for 9 years as Project Consultant, managing the build out of two highly successful, wireless telephone networks. Mike’s responsibilities include Service Development, Technical Integration and Project Management. He is a licensed helicopter pilot, who studied Business Management and Information Technology at the University of Phoenix, Arizona and TJ College, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Jonson
Philippines Travel: Exploring Sagada on a Shoe-String Budget
Urban dwellers would normally prefer to rove around the metropolis and explore every side-street in search for ideal refuge, more than traveling to remote provinces. However, there are more than 7,000 reasons to explore the parameters of this archipelago, taking into account its profuse land and marine resources and myriad sanctuaries.
Part of this region is Sagada. With a measly P2,500, a determined explorer can take a fulfilling jaunt to Sagada—a serene mountain community in Mt. Province. The adventurous travelers would customarily take the 10-hour bus ride from Manila to Banaue, Ifugao (via Solano, Nueva Ecija route) that costs not more than P300.
In Banaue, travelers have the option to take the day off and trek along the well-engineered Banaur Rcie Terraces or take a jeepney ride to Bontoc and from there, once can catch a bus ride to a more tranquil region, Sagada in Mt. Province.
Sagada has economical lodging houses and hotels to spend the night over. For as low as P200, a traveler can avail of a bedroom for two and a well-scrubbed common bathroom with sufficient amount of water—for an overnight abode. Even though electricity and water are accessible in these highland regions, one of the guidelines in immersing to remote areas is not to expect for urban amenities.
However, the lack of adequate necessities is not an hindrance to any devoted backpacker. Indeed, the remarkable view of the mountains, sight of abundant natural resources, and exposure to mountain community are enough reasons to enjoy the trip.
Trekking along the narrow mountain trails of Batad and Bangaan Villages in Banaue is one of the many leisure options where panoramic views of the terraces can be enjoyed. To keep track of the trail, a number of villagers can be hired for hours as tour guides.
The trip is truly breathtaking and for an amateur trekker, the long hours of walk should not impede them to reach the other side of the trail. There are a number of brooks along the curvy mountain range that are guaranteed to quench one’s thirst during the hours of hike. Meanwhile, the awe-inspiring endpoint is an antidote to muscle pain.
Batad is comparable to realizing the pot of gold at the other end of the rainbow. It boasts of scenic and unspoiled layers of rice fields forming a colossal amphitheater, where native Ifugaos mostly dwell. The terraces is still a functional source of livelihood and personal sustenance for Ifugaos, except for some where irrigation systems have been destroyed through seepage, landslides, prolonged drought, erosion, and other inevitable natural calamities.
John Grant has been living in the Philippines for 5 years and has travelled the country extensively. His online Philippines Travel Guide covers major destinations like Sagada, Puerto Galera and Palawan.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Grant
Part of this region is Sagada. With a measly P2,500, a determined explorer can take a fulfilling jaunt to Sagada—a serene mountain community in Mt. Province. The adventurous travelers would customarily take the 10-hour bus ride from Manila to Banaue, Ifugao (via Solano, Nueva Ecija route) that costs not more than P300.
In Banaue, travelers have the option to take the day off and trek along the well-engineered Banaur Rcie Terraces or take a jeepney ride to Bontoc and from there, once can catch a bus ride to a more tranquil region, Sagada in Mt. Province.
Sagada has economical lodging houses and hotels to spend the night over. For as low as P200, a traveler can avail of a bedroom for two and a well-scrubbed common bathroom with sufficient amount of water—for an overnight abode. Even though electricity and water are accessible in these highland regions, one of the guidelines in immersing to remote areas is not to expect for urban amenities.
However, the lack of adequate necessities is not an hindrance to any devoted backpacker. Indeed, the remarkable view of the mountains, sight of abundant natural resources, and exposure to mountain community are enough reasons to enjoy the trip.
Trekking along the narrow mountain trails of Batad and Bangaan Villages in Banaue is one of the many leisure options where panoramic views of the terraces can be enjoyed. To keep track of the trail, a number of villagers can be hired for hours as tour guides.
The trip is truly breathtaking and for an amateur trekker, the long hours of walk should not impede them to reach the other side of the trail. There are a number of brooks along the curvy mountain range that are guaranteed to quench one’s thirst during the hours of hike. Meanwhile, the awe-inspiring endpoint is an antidote to muscle pain.
Batad is comparable to realizing the pot of gold at the other end of the rainbow. It boasts of scenic and unspoiled layers of rice fields forming a colossal amphitheater, where native Ifugaos mostly dwell. The terraces is still a functional source of livelihood and personal sustenance for Ifugaos, except for some where irrigation systems have been destroyed through seepage, landslides, prolonged drought, erosion, and other inevitable natural calamities.
John Grant has been living in the Philippines for 5 years and has travelled the country extensively. His online Philippines Travel Guide covers major destinations like Sagada, Puerto Galera and Palawan.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Grant
Your Travel Destination Shall Be Cebu, Philippines
That may be a presumptuous statement to make but after reading this article thoroughly, there’s a good chance that you’d agree to make that statement as well.
But first, let’s get down to the basics.
Cebu, is in the Philippines. Now, when you mention the Philippines, it’s either Manila or Boracay that are the first places to come to your mind. But we assure you that Cebu is as good as both those places. Better yet, there’s no need to pass through other cities in the Philippines just to get to Cebu. As one of the major ports of the country, Cebu is then even directly accessible from other countries such as Singapore and Hong Kong, China.
The Olango Wildlife Sanctuary should always figure prominently in a tourist’s travel plans to Cebu, Philippines. In this sanctuary, tourists would able to catch a glimpse of different species of migrating birds coming from places as far as China and Siberia. Based on studies made of this natural phenomenon, these birds choose Olango as a wintering ground and a way to increase their fat reserves before they resume flight.
Cebu’s Fort San Pedro is the oldest tri bastion fort in the Philippines. Built in 1565, its 8 foot thick walls and 30 foot tall tower bore witness to several wars, not the least would be World War II, in which it served as barracks for American soldiers.
Casa Gorordo Museum is also one of the well-loved destinations of tourists once they arrive in Cebu. Taking a tour of this well-kept museum is like stepping into another time and era, thanks to the lovely antique furniture on display and the conservation of residential features from the old days such as the magnificent courtyard.
And speaking of Gorordo, make sure that you visit 415 Gorordo Avenue in Lahug, Cebu City because that is the address of the Sala Piano Museum. In this museum, you’d be able to a see a collection of about hundreds of pianos of different shapes and sizes.
Lastly, there’s the Kawasan Falls in Matutinao, Badian. The sight of this majestic waterfall would no doubt make you think how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful world.
Kim Hald's Philippines travel site concentrates on travelling and adventuring around the Philippine Islands such as Cebu and Boracay
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kim_Hald
But first, let’s get down to the basics.
Cebu, is in the Philippines. Now, when you mention the Philippines, it’s either Manila or Boracay that are the first places to come to your mind. But we assure you that Cebu is as good as both those places. Better yet, there’s no need to pass through other cities in the Philippines just to get to Cebu. As one of the major ports of the country, Cebu is then even directly accessible from other countries such as Singapore and Hong Kong, China.
The Olango Wildlife Sanctuary should always figure prominently in a tourist’s travel plans to Cebu, Philippines. In this sanctuary, tourists would able to catch a glimpse of different species of migrating birds coming from places as far as China and Siberia. Based on studies made of this natural phenomenon, these birds choose Olango as a wintering ground and a way to increase their fat reserves before they resume flight.
Cebu’s Fort San Pedro is the oldest tri bastion fort in the Philippines. Built in 1565, its 8 foot thick walls and 30 foot tall tower bore witness to several wars, not the least would be World War II, in which it served as barracks for American soldiers.
Casa Gorordo Museum is also one of the well-loved destinations of tourists once they arrive in Cebu. Taking a tour of this well-kept museum is like stepping into another time and era, thanks to the lovely antique furniture on display and the conservation of residential features from the old days such as the magnificent courtyard.
And speaking of Gorordo, make sure that you visit 415 Gorordo Avenue in Lahug, Cebu City because that is the address of the Sala Piano Museum. In this museum, you’d be able to a see a collection of about hundreds of pianos of different shapes and sizes.
Lastly, there’s the Kawasan Falls in Matutinao, Badian. The sight of this majestic waterfall would no doubt make you think how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful world.
Kim Hald's Philippines travel site concentrates on travelling and adventuring around the Philippine Islands such as Cebu and Boracay
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kim_Hald
Philippines Scuba Diving on Shoestring Budget
Philippines scuba diving offers some of the best diving in the world and it can be done on a Shoestring budget if you go at the right time of the year.
There are not too many places in the world where you can do 2 dives for under $40, but the Philippines offers many places where this is possible, and if you have your own dive gear, and dive more than 5 times, you might even bring the price down lower.
My two favorites while I was there was Puerto Galera and Cebu –Bohol. Both dive areas are very easy to get to. For Puerto Galera I went using local buses and a local ferry an easy cheap trip from either Angeles City where Clark Air base is located and even easier from Manila. Getting to Cebu-Bohol was equally easy and cheap with a few regional airlines like Cebu Pacific and the Philippines national air carrier, Philippines Air offering lots of cheap flights from either Manila or Clark.
The diving at Puerto Galera was a real treat seeing numerous butterfly species including tear drops, saddle backs and lots of different noses including orange nose, blue nose, and hump nose. There were also a lot of angel fish including everyone’s favorite the regal and some great pipefish and nudibrachs action as well. Puerto Galera also has some wreck diving, with 3 wrecks doable in one dive at Sabang Beach. These wrecks are shallow enough that open water divers can swim around the outside of them without a advanced open water card or wreck diving specialty rating.
Cebu is one of the larger islands in the Philippines. Bohol is attached to Cebu by a bridge. Alona beach is on Bohol, and is the main jumping off point for Balicasag, which is where the best diving is located, roughly a 25 minute boat ride on the local catamarans from Alona Beach. Shore dives are also possible off of Alona Beach. I was rewarded with a sea snake and a hoard of schooling catfish, as well as some very beautiful pipefish when I first arrived, and did a free diving snorkeling sortie. From the beach it took about 10 minutes to swim too and went down to over 40 meters. The main place for the divers that go to Cebu -Bohol is Balicasag island which is a marine park, while I was there we had some high winds, so were on the lee ward side for two days of wall action that was great!. A highlight of the trip was swimming right into a large group of tunas in 40 meters of water, who swim by close enough for me to see all of the beautiful coloration. Balicasag Island had a few different types of nudibrachs as well that were quite beautiful to behold in their outrageous fluorescent color schemes. There is also some real good shallow reef that held at least 4 different types of clown fish, finding Nemo here is a snap
For all our dives in the Philippines we had local dive masters. I must point out that they were not very good at briefings, and I found it a little disconcerting not getting a boat safety brief, especially when the life preservers were not in sight. English was the language that was spoken mostly on the dive boats that I scuba dived off of. All in all I will go back and dive there as it is a great value in the off season.
Fred Tittle has lived and worked in holiday vacation resorts his entire life, from Lake Geneva’s Playboy Club, as a rock jock for KSPN FM in Aspen Colorado, he became a PADI Pro Scuba Diver in Hawaii, diving on Maui, Kauai, Kona on the big island, and Waikiki on Oahu. He now owns EcoSea Dive in Sihanoukville Cambodia where he teaches SSI and PADI scuba diving courses and runs liveaboards in the gulf of Thailand and Asia adventure tours,
http://www.ecosea.com
Fred’s new project http://www.CheapCharliesHotels.com where he reviews cheap hotels , budget guesthouses , discount accommodations and cheap international flights, but is really an excuse to vacation more, China is up next.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Fred_Tittle
There are not too many places in the world where you can do 2 dives for under $40, but the Philippines offers many places where this is possible, and if you have your own dive gear, and dive more than 5 times, you might even bring the price down lower.
My two favorites while I was there was Puerto Galera and Cebu –Bohol. Both dive areas are very easy to get to. For Puerto Galera I went using local buses and a local ferry an easy cheap trip from either Angeles City where Clark Air base is located and even easier from Manila. Getting to Cebu-Bohol was equally easy and cheap with a few regional airlines like Cebu Pacific and the Philippines national air carrier, Philippines Air offering lots of cheap flights from either Manila or Clark.
The diving at Puerto Galera was a real treat seeing numerous butterfly species including tear drops, saddle backs and lots of different noses including orange nose, blue nose, and hump nose. There were also a lot of angel fish including everyone’s favorite the regal and some great pipefish and nudibrachs action as well. Puerto Galera also has some wreck diving, with 3 wrecks doable in one dive at Sabang Beach. These wrecks are shallow enough that open water divers can swim around the outside of them without a advanced open water card or wreck diving specialty rating.
Cebu is one of the larger islands in the Philippines. Bohol is attached to Cebu by a bridge. Alona beach is on Bohol, and is the main jumping off point for Balicasag, which is where the best diving is located, roughly a 25 minute boat ride on the local catamarans from Alona Beach. Shore dives are also possible off of Alona Beach. I was rewarded with a sea snake and a hoard of schooling catfish, as well as some very beautiful pipefish when I first arrived, and did a free diving snorkeling sortie. From the beach it took about 10 minutes to swim too and went down to over 40 meters. The main place for the divers that go to Cebu -Bohol is Balicasag island which is a marine park, while I was there we had some high winds, so were on the lee ward side for two days of wall action that was great!. A highlight of the trip was swimming right into a large group of tunas in 40 meters of water, who swim by close enough for me to see all of the beautiful coloration. Balicasag Island had a few different types of nudibrachs as well that were quite beautiful to behold in their outrageous fluorescent color schemes. There is also some real good shallow reef that held at least 4 different types of clown fish, finding Nemo here is a snap
For all our dives in the Philippines we had local dive masters. I must point out that they were not very good at briefings, and I found it a little disconcerting not getting a boat safety brief, especially when the life preservers were not in sight. English was the language that was spoken mostly on the dive boats that I scuba dived off of. All in all I will go back and dive there as it is a great value in the off season.
Fred Tittle has lived and worked in holiday vacation resorts his entire life, from Lake Geneva’s Playboy Club, as a rock jock for KSPN FM in Aspen Colorado, he became a PADI Pro Scuba Diver in Hawaii, diving on Maui, Kauai, Kona on the big island, and Waikiki on Oahu. He now owns EcoSea Dive in Sihanoukville Cambodia where he teaches SSI and PADI scuba diving courses and runs liveaboards in the gulf of Thailand and Asia adventure tours,
http://www.ecosea.com
Fred’s new project http://www.CheapCharliesHotels.com where he reviews cheap hotels , budget guesthouses , discount accommodations and cheap international flights, but is really an excuse to vacation more, China is up next.
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