BILIRAN ISLAND- Rice Terraces, Waterfalls, White Sand Beaches

Biliran, most popularly known for its sweet and pure water, rice terraces, waterfalls and soft white sand beaches is one of the Philippine’s hidden tourist destinations. Biliran is a small province located next to the island of Leyte. Access is convenient as a bridge connects the two islands. Entry to Biliran is also available from Cebu, Samar and of course Manila.

Naval is the capital of Biliran. While at this area, a visit to the Eastern waterfalls and Higatangan Island is a must. The locals of this town will recommend you to also take a trip to Dalutan, which is a tiny island with white sand which is perfect for snorkeling aficionados. From here, Bagongbong falls is also a site to see. A trip to the cold springs of Masagongsong is also a detour worth taking.

If you wish to explore more of the land area, take a trip to Sampao, Iyusan to see the rice terraces, which in a way is similar to the Banaue Rice Terraces of Northern Luzon.

The isolated and under developed island of Marapipi is a place for those you enjoy solitude. Sambawab Island, also uninhabited, has white sand which feels powdery at your toes as well as a good snorkeling area.

Make sure to grab a bite at Marvin’s James Seaside Inn. They serve the best food at this side of the island with the noodles and karaoke.

Heading East of Biliran you will find Calibiran Falls which is popular for the two swimming falls at the base of this waterfall. Calibiran Volcano is also a popular climbing destination although it is considered active by the Provincial Tourism Council.

The most famous of all spots in Biliran is the Tomalistis falls, which have exceptionally sweet water flowing.

West of Naval is Ka Ventong cave which is popular for the hundreds of snakes that it houses. Also located west of Biliran is Higatangan Island, where the locals still talk about how the Former President Marcos and members of the resistance took refuge, and on this island, Marcos Hill was named in his memory.

Best Tourist Spots In Northern Luzon

The most diverse part of the Philippine Archipelago is the northern area of Luzon. Batanes Islands with all its Scotland highland-like rolling hills and the Cordilleras with its green forests amongst beautiful mountains are what the Northern area is boasting about. Additional to that are the beautiful, isolated and serene white beaches of the Ilocos. The interconnected and endless deep caves of Cagayan, the firm and strong rapids of the Kalinga Chico River will further entice you to make this trip to the northern Philippines.

For the ones who prefer to go the less-adventurous road, Vigan will give you just what you are looking for with its Spanish-filled culture which has been preserved through hundreds of years. MacArthur’s historical plight along the beaches of Pangasinan is alive in the shores of Lingayen.

If you decide to make this trip north of the Philippines, make sure to: Surf in the breaks around Baler, and make a short stop at Charlie’s Point; Enjoy the cool acoustic guitar and soft-rock music of Baguio City; See the final frontier of the Philippines at Batanes; Brave the water rapids of the Chico river; Be a witness to the famous bat pilgrimage of Pinacauan River of Tuguegarao; Take pictures of the mummies of Kabayan; Hike the hills and engage in interesting conversations with the locals of Sagada and See the elegant Spanish history of the land in Vigan.

Travelling around these areas of Northern Luzon is easy and accessible as there are frequent flights that will connect you to Batanes. Buses are the more economical and practical choice if you plan to visit Baguio, Pangasinan, Vigan and Cagayan.  If you prefer to soak the sights in and you do not wish to be bothered with the fast pace of travel groups, then you can rent a car upon your arrival at Manila. Arm yourself with a trusty road map, and you are soon on your way.

Accommodations are easy to find, although it is advised that you reserve and book your accommodations in advance to avoid unnecessary hassle.
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Romblon, The Other Boracay

Many tourists who come to the Philippines head towards the pristine beaches of the country, but many of them are not aware of the Romblon group of islands.

Many locals describe Romblon as ‘the other Boracay’. The Romblon group of islands is quiet, isolated and peaceful. One of the main reasons why these islands are described as such is because transportation to these islands is scarce and the ride is described as rough; accessibility is not easy to reach. However, like  many of the hidden beaches in the Philippines, the scenery is worth the ride.

Romblon will charm you with Sibuyan Island, Romblon Town Proper, wonderful forests and  exotic animals. Carabao Island and its appealing beaches will entice you all the more.

Hambil or Carabao Island is close to Boracay Island and is a popular destination for diving. Usually a side-trip from Boracay, Carabao Island will give you a sense of relief and fresh air. Carabao Island’s peaceful and uncrowded streets, white sand beaches, and seldomly visited reefs are well-sought places of the vacation of a vacation.

Travel guides are unheard of in this area since tourists are encouraged to roam the islands on their own. While at Carabao Island, find your way to  San Jose on the east coast and marvel at how white  the sand is. Although not recommended to go to during the wet season, the beach will greet you with its long, fine and soft white sand during the summer.

Tablas Islands will also come highly recommended by the locals, as it is the largest of the Romblon islands. Ferrol is by far the best beach in Romblon. Roda beach will awe you with numerous mangroves and San Andres will beg you to stay with its waterfalls. Looc will further entice you with its marine sanctuary.

Be a witness to these and many more natural wonders of the Philippines on your next visit to the Romblon Islands.

Camotes Island, Cebu- A Hidden Treasure

If ever you find yourself in Cebu, Camotes Island is a must-visit. Only a boat ride away from the popular island of Cebu, Camotes Island will awe you with an ambiance that most tourists who travel to the Philippines are looking for. Island life is what Camotes island is all about.

Camotes Islands consists of three main islands, Pacijan or San Francisco, Poro and Ponson. The major livelihoos of these islands are mainly fishery, agriculture and tourism.

Although these group of islands are not usually referred to in the usual travel guides, the islands, especially Pacijan and Poro are visited by many of the locals in the nearby islands. Only a few foreign tourists find themselves in Camotes, and all of them are welcomed by the locals. There are not a lot of places to stay, however tourist spots are abundant. Restaurants are not common, however the local market and shops provide more than your appetite’s desire.

Find your way to Tulang Island, a place which will provide you with a great diving spot, however bring your own gear. Do make your way to Esperanza and Tudela, where you will find marine sanctuaries which is still a continuing effort of the local government.

With the amount of P200, local hubel-hubel riders will take you around the island aboard a motorcycle. Another option would be to rent your own motorcycle for around P600 a day. Boats and jeepneys are also readily available.

Another wonderful place to visit would be the beachfront area of Esperanza, where you will find perfect white sand beaches and peaceful coves for your enjoyment. Find your way to this beautiful tourist spot from Pacijan by motorcycle or jeepney.

If you have an appetite for seafood, you should definitely visit the Carmen-Lake Danao Fishery Complex, for they have the best fresh water fish called tilapia. This fishery complex is also accessible from the main island of Pacijan.

Find more attractions of the Camotes Islands in our succeeding travel guides, only at here at Hotels Philippines.