Asia

Cebu Top Tourist Attractions : In the New Normal

February 9, 2021 by ExploreTraveler Leave a Comment

Cebu Top 8 Tourist Attractions — Cebu, Philippines

Cebu Top Tourist Attractions: In the New Normal

A year ago, COVID-19 pandemic hit the world and the Philippines and travel has been one of the activities which have been placed with most restrictions. For someone who is fond of traveling, this pandemic must have given you the frustrations due to postponed or canceled travel plans. But that was a year ago, now the world had started to move on and adapt to the new way called New Normal.

What does “New Normal” mean? This term had been very familiar and widely used over social media, the internet, television, establishments, and everywhere else around the world when we started to recover from the effects of COVID-19. This term basically means a new lifestyle, a new way at work or school, a new way to do our everyday activities, and a new way to travel with consideration of the precautionary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

In the Philippines, the government has reopened tourist visits for both local and foreign travelers, but then it is important to make sure that travel is allowed to your specific destination since some areas in the Philippines may still be under some tourist restrictions. Because the requirements to travel may change from time to time, always check the official local guidelines for the latest updates on restrictions and necessary requirements that may affect your travel plans.

General Rule in Travelling in the New Normal

1. Check for the latest travel restrictions in your place of destination:

Visit official web pages and other websites such as the Department of Tourism, the Department of Foreign Affairs, or the local website of the province that you would like to travel to for you to get accurate and official information. You don’t want to book your ticket and end up canceling or rebooking it just because you did not check first.

2. Complete all needed documents:

For tourists, documents such as travel or tourist pass, medical certificate or clearance, travel itinerary, round trip ticket, and hotel accommodation may be needed. Just make sure to bring and complete all needed documents for your travel to avoid travel hassles. Again check out the latest requirements as this may change from time to time.

3. Don’t forget to include sanitizers in your backpack:

In most public areas nowadays during the pandemic, hand sanitizers are everywhere as this is mandated by law in establishments, but just make sure to bring some for you to use whenever needed. Always sanitize your hand whenever it touches something that other people also touches such as doorknobs and rails.

4. Always wear protective gear and maintain social distancing:

Wearing a face shield and face mask in public areas is mandatory in the Philippines, these two are essential when you travel as well to Cebu. You may not be allowed to enter an establishment without the shield and the mask. Medical grade or cloth masks can be used, masks with valves are not allowed. The social distancing of 1-2 meters has also been mandated, although most forget to abide by this, this is important as some locals may not be wearing masks and face shields.

5. Do not travel when you are feeling off:

If you have flu-like symptoms, don’t travel, no matter if you have booked your tickets already or not.

Travel Destinations in Cebu in the New Normal

Cebu is a group of islands that are located in the central part of the Philippines. It consists of the main island and 167 surrounding beautiful and natural islands and islets. Cebu City which is the second metropolitan area in the Philippines is the oldest city and the first capital of the country.

Because of its geographic location, Cebu has been one of the major places for trading even before the historic arrival of the Spaniards. It also serves as a gateway to a lot of tourist destinations in the Philippines including Bohol, where the famous Chocolate Hills can be found, Boracay island, Puerto Princesa, and a lot more.

Rich cultural heritage, exotic history, beautiful and mesmerizing beaches, scuba diving sites, rich mountain areas, unique cuisine, and warm people are Cebu’s best for travelers.

Must-Visit Historical Tourist Destinations

If you are a lover of historical and cultural and religious adventures, Cebu is rich with attractions depicting the interesting history of its past and broad and colorful cultural heritage and religious attractions.

1. Mactan Shrine:

Mactan Shrine is located in Lapu-Lapu City where the Mactan Airport is also located. The shrine is believed to be the approximate location of the Battle of Mactan. In this historical battle, Lapu Lapu, whom the city has been named, one of the chieftains, and an estimated 1500 natives fought against soldiers led by the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan who came to Mactan Island in April 1521 to bring catholicism. Lapu Lapu and his men who were resistant to accept Ferdinand Magellan and his cause won against this battle and colonization were delayed for about 44 years. The shrine hosts two monuments, the monument of Lapu-Lapu as he was honored for his bravery to protect his village and for Ferdinand Magellan for bringing Catholicism to the Philippines and the Santo Nino (Baby Jesus) to Cebu.

2. Simala Shrine:

Situated in an uphill of Lindongon, Simala, Sibonga, Cebu, Simala Shrine is actually a church and is famous among the locals and tourists alike. This place is most visited and is packed with people especially during Holy Week and other Catholic activities celebrating the Virgin Mary. Just like other churches and monasteries in the Philippines, the Shrine was closed to the public during the height of the pandemic but was reopened in December 2020. Because of its magnificent and “castle-like” aura, people who are not even religious could not resist exploring the place. Its unique structure, serene atmosphere, and the majestic view is a must experience for tourists. When you get here, aside from wearing a face mask and face shield, and observing social distancing, visitors are reminded to keep silent and avoid making unnecessary noise.

3. Taoist Temple:

By JuanPiso – Own work

“The Cebu Taoist Temple is located in the Beverly Hills subdivision in Lahug, Cebu City, and was built in 1972. Its location is elevated about 360 ft above sea level and could be reached through private vehicles only. The place has been opened to worshippers and non-worshippers alike. The entrance to the temple is a replica of the great wall of China and is a breathtaking view. Not only that, you will have to walk up to an estimated 120 steps of stairs to reach the main of the temple which will give you a dual view of the city and the green lush mountain area of Cebu. One can get a relaxing and “worth it” feeling as one feel the fresh breeze of air and the mesmerizing architectural design of the temple.”

4. Sinulog Festival:

Celebrated every 3rd Sunday in January in honor of Santo Nino (Baby Jesus), this religious tradition is one of the unique, colorful, vibrant, and biggest festivals in Cebu. This activity is being participated not just by the locals of Cebu but all over the Philippines. People from different areas in the country book their flights and reserve ahead for this wondrous day. The festivity showcases colorful street dancing with drums and bugles from different groups of all ages all over the Philippines sponsored by their respective region. Religious and non-religious visitors wouldn’t want to miss witnessing this fantabulous sight. Hundreds of small stalls for face tattoos and souvenirs lined up on the street as well so you can shop and get memorabilia of the festival.

However, the 2021 Sinulog Festival physical and virtual celebrations were postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. One can only hope and pray to see the vibrant and fun-filled celebration again next year as this festival is being held annually.

Cebu Philippines scuba — Cebu Philippines Scuba

Must-Visit Scuba Diving Sites

The Philippines was awarded as the Best Overseas Diving Area (overseas category) at the Marine Diving Awards 2020 in Tokyo, and the Philippines also received nominations as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination and World’s Leading Dive Destination at the 27th World Travel Awards. Cebu is among those places in the Philippines known for its spectacular, rich, and natural under the ocean flora and fauna. Scuba diving in the Cebu oceans is an experience ocean explorers and scuba diving fanatics shouldn’t miss when you visit Cebu.

Although scuba diving is one of the activities that was restricted during the COVID-19 pandemic, in October 2020, diving was tagged as a non-contact sport or activity and was again allowed during the pandemic in the Philippines. But before going on a dive, one needs to be reminded of the new normal rules in scuba diving:

Scuba Diving in areas placed on GCQ (General Community Quarantine) and MGCQ (Modified General Community Quarantine) are allowed to operate. Since this may change from time to time, check the latest update on restrictions of the scuba dive site you want to visit.
Bring your own diving gear and equipment box. Strictly no borrowing.
Bring and apply liberally hand disinfectants throughout the day whenever necessary.
Spitting to defog your gear is prohibited. Soap and shampoo are advised to be used as a defogger and is mandatory to be available in diving centers.
Wear face shield and mask when not on actual dive and when interacting with other people.

1. Pescador Island:

A lot of divers who have visited Pescador talk about the “Pescador Experience.” This is an exciting and mesmerizing experience you shouldn’t miss when you visit Cebu. The Island which has been turned into a marine park is located in the municipality of Moalboal in Cebu and is considered Moalboal’s Jewel. The island is known for the sardine run which seems like thousands of them forming like a tornado is breathtaking to witness. You can find a variety of ocean life here like scorpionfish, stonefish, snappers, school of barracuda, frogfish, and a lot more. Turtles are common on this island too. On the west side of the island, you will find the “Pescador Cathedral”, a cavern or funnel starting at 18 meters dropping to 40+ meters, with pockets, bridges, and swim-throughs. Currents can be a bit tricky sometimes but you will surely have one of the most unforgettable diving experiences in your life.

2. Mactan Island:

This island is one of the famous diving spots not only in Cebu but in the Philippines. Many diving centers are open here since diving was allowed during the pandemic, but it is best to book This island is very accessible since this is also where the international airport is located, so if you have limited time in Cebu but you want to experience and witness its rich marine life, then the island will not disappoint you.

Mactan island and its surrounding island has diverse, colorful, and rich marine life. You will see snakes, frogfish, barracudas, leaf fish, mandarin fish, groupers, scorpionfish, blue-ribbon eels, nudibranchs, rainbow runners, pufferfish, clownfish, sweet lips, moray eels, drummers, harlequin fish, butterflyfish, pipefish, and many others. In the bigger marine sanctuaries, there are schooling mackerel and jacks, turtles, stingrays, and occasionally bigeye trevallies. Some dive spots are home to thresher sharks and hammerhead sharks.

Dive sites such as Tambuli, Agus, Marigondon Cave, Talima Marine Sanctuary can be accessed through Mactan Island.

3. Malapascua Island:

Malapascua is a small island of 2.5 kilometers in length and 1-kilometer width. It has a long stretch of white sand beach and is home to a small community. Located at the tip in the north part of Cebu, one will have to travel about four hours to Daanbantayan and take a 5 minutes boat ride to the island.

The island is a very popular diving spot in Cebu and is ideal for diving beginners. It offers a great and exciting experience for newbie divers as the dives here are easy to do but would inspire and thrill newbie divers to do more dives. Malapascua is famous for the thresher shark dives in Monad Shoal, here you can swim with the thresher sharks as much as you want and a lot of dive experience from unspoiled coral gardens, reefs and wrecks, night dives, wall dives, and a lot more.

Cebu indeed has rich marine life and a lot of diving spots, you can also visit the Olango group of islands which are adjacent to Mactan Island, Nalusuan Island, and Hilutungan Island which can’t be missed out during island hopping and notable for great snorkeling experience, and Capitancillo Island wherein a unique spot called the Rendez-Vous is located, is a deep gorgeous wall down to 180 feet to the different sloped walls a unique underwater fauna and flora.

4. Swimming with Whale Shark in Oslob:

The whale watching was suspended for about 4 months during the height of the pandemic but it has already resumed starting August 2020.

This thrilling and breathtaking swim with the whale shark can be experienced in Oslob. You will have the opportunity to decide to see them from the boat or you can snorkel or dive to see the whale shark closely. About 5-10 whale sharks are noted to visit the site every day as fishermen feed them.

It is truly exciting to swim with these majestic animals but it is important to follow instructions and make sure you and whale sharks are safe.

5. Kawasan Falls:

Kawasan Falls is located in Badian and is near Moalboal. This natural waterfall is a three-stage cascade of clear turquoise water from the mountain springs of the Mantalongon mountain range. The waterfall in the first stage is the largest and is the one which tourists mostly visit, you must climb to about 15 minutes to reach the second one, and must climb higher to reach the 3rd one. Canyoneering adventure is a popular activity in this area. It starts at Canlaob river downstream going to Kawasan falls.

Attractions at Cebu Transcentral Highway (Mountain Tour)

The trans central highway of Cebu is considered as one of the best innovations on the island in terms of transportation. The 33-kilometer highway is snake-like resting in the lush green mountains as it stretches from the east coast of Cebu City to the west coast in Balamban. This road is famous for bikers because of its notable winding road and relaxing cold temperature and natural green environment. This area here can be compared to the famous Kennon Road in Baguio.

Camping sites, strawberry garden, flower gardens such as Sirao Flower Garden, wide vegetable gardens, can be found here and is open to the public. Mountain adventures such as Ziplining, Sky biking, trekking, horseback riding can be experienced as well.

1. Temple of Leah:

One of the recent attractions along the Cebu Transcentral Highway which is gaining local and foreign interest is the Temple of Leah which is dubbed as the “Taj Mahal” of Cebu. This structure was built in 2012 on a mountain top in Busay as an expression of the love of a wealthy businessman in Cebu to his late wife named Leah. This Greco-Roman like big structure overlooks the city of Cebu.

Conclusion:

Although tourism was suddenly halted in Cebu due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the beautiful, scenic and breathtaking tourist spots here have been reopened for travelers to see and experience. Just make sure to check updates on travel requirements to your specific destination before you plan your travel.

Cebu is indeed one of the places in the Philippines a traveler must not miss or you will surely miss a travel experience you might regret in your life. Cebu is a very rich, vibrant, and diverse island. From interesting and world noted historical sites, world-famous beaches, and scuba diving experience, to exciting nature and mountain eco-adventures and a lot more.

Some of our other travel videos from our many trips to the Philippines.

The Singing Cooks & Waiters By ExploreTraveler.com

Philippines Volcano

Volcano Trip - The ride up

The Singing Cooks & Waiters

Tacloban Philippines Lantern Memorial

Part 1 Alejandro Hotel Tacloban City Philippines

The Philippines Sailfin Dragon Lizards | Explore Traveler

The Mystery Behind The Famed Chocolate Hills In Bohol, Philippines

Malaki Volcanic Crater In Luzon Philippines Taal

Tacloban City Philippines

Panaon Island: Southern Leyte, Philippines

Wonderful Adventures In The Philippines

Tuklasin ang Misteryo ng Chocolate Hills sa Bohol, Philippines

January 20, 2021 by ExploreTraveler Leave a Comment

Tuklasin ang Misteryo ng Chocolate Hills sa Bohol, Philippines

Chocolate Hills Bohol Philippines

Halos lahat tayo nangangarap na makapag bakasyon o bumisita sa iba’t ibang parte ng mundo kahit sa isang pagkakataon lang sa ating buhay, pero ilan lang sa atin ang naabot ang pangarap na ito, sa nakararami, ito ay hanggang pangarap lang.

Ang Pilipinas ay hindi kasama sa mga tinatawag na “top tourist destinations” sa buong mundo, pero ito ay dahil lamang sa ito’y nadiskubre pagkatapos madiskubre ang ibang tourist destinations. Puno sa mga natural na kagandahan at likas na yaman, ang Pilipinas ay isang lugar na dapat niyong puntahan sa maraming kadahilanan.

Ang Pilipinas Bilang Isang Holiday Spot

Kilala sa magagandang dagat at malinamnam na mga prutas, ang Pilipinas ay pinangalanan batay sa pangalan ni Haring Philip II ng Espanya. Ang pulo ng Pilipinas ay matatagpuan sa Timog-Silangang Asya, ito ay tahanan ng iba’t ibang uri ng halaman at hayop na sa pilipinas lang makikita, kaya naman ang pag lalakbay sa Pilipinas ay isa sa pinakamagandang karanasan sa isang manlalakbay. Ang preskong kapaligiran, natatanging kultura, at magalang na mga tao, ang inyong kelangan kung gusto niyong magpahinga at magliwaliw saglit sa nakakapagod niyong buhay.

Hindi mabibilang ang mga magagandang lugar na pwedeng bisitahin sa Pilipinas, kagaya na lamang sa pamosong isla ng Boracay, na isa sa mga kabisera sa Pilipinas. Ang isla ng Boracay ay merong higit labin dalawang dalampasigan na perpekto para sa mga taong gustong magpahinga at mag enjoy ng mga water activities. At dahil ang Pilipinas ay mayroong 7,000 na pulo o isla, ang magiging pinaka mahirap na desisyon para sa isang manlalakbay ay kung saan ang unang lugar na pupuntahan.

Ang Banaue, isa rin sa mga lugar na magandang puntahan, ay may nakakaakit na Rice Terraces na hindi mo mapapalagpas na bisitahin kung ikaw ay pupunta dun. Kung ikaw naman ay mahilig sa kasaysayan o pumunta sa mga makasaysayang lugar, ang Vigan na kung saan buhay na buhay ang mga makasaysayang tanawin, ay dapat kasama sa listahan ng mga dapat mong puntahan. Meron ding mga nakakamangha na mga lungsod at isla gaya ng Maynila at Davao na parehong kakaiba at nakakaaliw na bisitahin. Ang Maynila o Manila, na parating buhay na buhay, ay puno ng mga aktibidad. Maaari kang sumakay ng jeep, na siyang pangunahing sasakyan sa paglilibot sa lungsod. Ang Davao naman, na isang pangulong lungsod, ay may halong urbano at natural na elemento. Sa madaling salita, hindi lamang mga gusali at maraming tao ang iyong makikita sa Davao, makikita mo rin dito ang mga natural na likas na gaya ng Eden Nature Park, Philippine Eagle Center at ang Davao Baywalk sa lungsod na ito.

Ang Chocolate Hills sa Bohol Bilang Isang Destinasyon

Subalit, sa lahat ng ito, ang isla ng Bohol sa Pilipinas, ay marahil ang ang pinaka magandang destinasyon para mag bakasyon kahit naman lang isang beses sa iyong buhay. Ang lugar na ito ay tahanan sa pinaka pamosong Chocolate Hills na nasa Carmen, Bohol, kung saan daang mala-tsokolateng burol ang nagbibigay ng maganda at kahangagangang tanawin, ito ay maihahalintulad sa maraming maliliit na bundok ng tsokolate, na nagkalat sa 50 kilometro kwadradong lupain. Ang likas na yamang ito ay dapat talagang pasyalan dahil ito’y kakatwa at ang tanawin ay talagang kahangahanga. Ito ay kilalang dinarayo ng mga turista sa Bohol na may layong 1-2 oras na biyahe mula Alona Beach.

Tungkol sa Chocolate Hills

Ang Chocolate Mountains ng Pilipinas ay isang pagbubuong heolohikal sa probinsya ng Bohol sa Pilipinas, at kahit sa ngayon, sa mga nagbabasa nito, ay marami ang nagtataka kung bakit ito ay popular at kung bakit ito’y pinangalanang “Chocolate Hills”. Ang hindi pangkaraniwan at kakaiba sa mahiwagang maliliit na mga burol na ito ay kadalasang nababalot ng berdeng damo at nagiging mala tsokolate kapag tag-tuyo. Itong mala tsokolate at napakaraming burol ay mahigit isang libo ang bilang at nagkalat sa may lawak na 50 kilometro kwadrado sa lungsod ng Carmen, Batuan, at Sagbayan. Ang kakaibang burol na ito, kahit iba iba ang laki ay pare-pareho parin ang itsura.

Chocolate Hills Bilang Perpektong Shooting Site

Ang Chocolate Hills ay kilala bilang pinaka magandang lugar para sa hindi mabilang na mga dayuhan at mga lokal na pelikula at tele-serye. Dahil sa kilala at nakaka intrigang kasaysayan nito, magandang tanawin, at mala fairy-tale na senaryo, ang Chocolate Hills tour sa Bohol, ay ilang beses nang naipalabas sa telebisyon. Ang mga mahilig sa sine lalo na yung mga gawa ng mga dayuhan gaya sa mga South-East Asians, ay matutuwa na malaman na ang pelikulang Aguila, Puri, Loveboat, Esteban, Muro-Ami, at ang internasyunal na pelikulang Tigershark ay ginawa dito. Ang kagandahan ng lugar ang umaakit sa mga tao sa buong mundo maging sa eksplorasyon man o pag tampok sa yaman ng kalikasan sa kanilang documentaryo o pelikula.

Ang mga Lutuing Popular sa Chocolate Hills

Noong ika-20 siglo, ang mga lutong Pilipino o lutong pinoy ay nagsimulang makilala sa buong mundo. Puno ng mga natural na pampalasa, maipagmamayabang ang lasa ng lutong pinoy. Ngayon, ang pinaka uso at mabilis ang pag usbong ay ang pagkain naluluto sa bangketa o street food, ay matatagpuan din sa bansang ito kung saan ang mga putahe ay parehong masarap at masustansya. Ang mahilig sa pagkaing ganito ay dapat puntahan ang lugar na ito para masaksihan at maranasan ang kakaibang luto ng Adobo, Sinigang, Kare-kare at Letson.

Mga Alamat na Bumabalot sa Chocolate Hills

Ang Bohol Chocolate Hills ng Pilipinas ay minsa’y napabilang sa “8 Wonders of the World” dahil sa hindi matukoy na pinagmulan o pagkabuo ng mga burol. Maraming alamat ang nauugnay sa Chocolate Hills, na kinukwento ng mga Pilipino tungkol sa pagkabuo ng burol. Ayon sa alamat, nabuo ang burol dahil sa pagtatalo ng dalawang higante na nagbatuhan ng malalaking bato at buhangin. Ang natira sa pagtatalo nila ay sa ngayong tinawag na Chocolate Hills. Isa pang alamat ang tungkol sa malungkot na higante na ang luha ang dahilan ng pagkabuo ng sikat na burol. Isa ring alamat ang nagsasabing ang burol ay galing sa mga tuyong dumi ng kalabaw.

Batay sa Siyentipikong Pagsasaliksik

Mahalaga parin ang aktwal na siyentipikong paliwanag sa pagkakabuo ng burol. Ang heolohikal na teorya sa pagkakabuo ng mahiwagang Chocolate hills ay resulta ng pagbabago ng panahon at pagkasira ng dagat apog o marine limestone. Ayon sa plaka na makikita sa viewing deck sa bayan ng Carmen, ang Chocolate Hills ay resulta ng pagkaagnas ng limestones o apog na umangat sa ibabaw ng lebel ng dagat at nabuo sa pamamagitan ng tectonic na mga proseso at napaibabaw sa tumigas na putik. Isa pang teorya ang nagsasabing ang burol ay coral reefs na nabuo mula sa pagsabog pagkatapos ng heolohical na pagkilos sa ilalim ng dagat. Kahit ano pa man ang dahilan ng pagkakabuo ng burol, ang kagandahan ng mga ito ay kaakit-akit at hindi dapat palampasin habang nagbabakasyon sa Pilipinas.

Pinakamagandang panahon para bumisita sa Chocolate Hills

Karamihan sa atin ay kinikilala ang Chocolate Hills na magandang pasyalang lugar. Ang pinaka mainam na panahon para bisitahin ito ay tuwing tagtuyot. Ito ang panahon ng pagkatuyo ng mga damo at ang mga burol ay nagiging mala-tsokolate ang kulay. Ang panahong ito ay nagsisimula sa katapusan ng Nobyembre hanggang Mayo. Isa sa nagbibigay ganda sa bansang Pilipinas ay ang hindi mahulaang takbo ng panahon, mas mainam parin ang sumangguni sa payo ng ekperto tungkol sa ulat panahon bago maglakbay. Kapag nakarating na, merong dalawang lugar na pweding pagpilian para makita ang tunay na kagandahan ng Chocolate Hills.

Viewing Deck ng Chocolate Hills Complex

Ang Chocolate Hills komplex ay isa sa mga pangunahing destinasyon para makita ang tunay na kagandahan ng Chocolate Hills. Ito ay matatagpuan sa Barangay Buenos Aires, Carmen, Bohol. Ang Chocolate Hills komplex ay binubuo ng dalawang chocolate hills na isinaayos ilang taon na ang nakalilipas. Binago ito at ginawang complex na mayroong sementong daanan papunta sa taas na may activity area, na kung saan makikita ang swimming pools at mga restawran na mayroong nakasisilaw at matataas na pine trees para magbigay lilim sa daanan. Mayroon din itong mga paupahang kwarto na abot kaya ang presyo sa mga gustong mag overnight sa sentro ng burol. Dahil sa mataas na altitude, maeenjoy ninyo ang kagandahan ng paglubog ng araw at mga burol sa observation decks.

Sagbayan Peak

Ang Sagbayan Peak ay isa sa mga lugar kung saan makikita ang kagandahan ng mga burol. Ito ay isang mountain resort at recreational center na matatagpuan sa bayan ng Sagbayan na hindi lang makikita ang kamangha-manghang 360-degree na tanawin ng mga burol kundi maging ang kakaibang bughaw na dagat na nag hihiwalay sa isla ng Bohol at Cebu.

Mga Dapat Gawin sa may Chocolate Hills

Galugarin ang Chocolate Hills Adventure Park

Kung gusto mong dalhin sa mas nakakaaliw na lebel ang pagbisita sa Chocolate Hills, bisitahin ang Chocolate Hills Adventure Park. Ito ay isang eco-tourism park, na matatagpuan sa Barangay ng Buenos Aires sa Carmen. Pag ika’y pumunta dito, huwag mong palalagpasin ang maka pag bike at surf sa zipline. Itong Chocolate Hills adventure na ito ay tiyak na makapgbibigay sayo ng bugso ng adrenaline. Mayroon namang iba pang mga pasilidad at mga pweding gawin dito gaya ng mga rope courses o pakikipagsapalaran gamit ang lubid, wave runner, na kung saan makakapaglakad ka sa umaagyog na nakabiting kahoy o lubid, at makakakita din kayo dito ng iba’t ibang klase ng paru-paru at mayamang uri ng halaman at hayop na matatagpuan sa “Ang Paru Paro” na isang hardin.

Sumakay sa maaksiyong Chocolate Hills ATV

Ang mga nature lovers ay tiyak na mageenjoy sa Chocolate Hills dahil maaring mag libot at pumasyal habang nakasakay sa isang ATV. Habang patungo sa Chocolate Hills sa Carmen, madadaanan ng mga manlalakbay ang kaakit-akit na Bilar manmade forest o gawang-taong gubat, na mas nakapadagdag sa kakaiba at nakakamanghang paglalakbay na ito. Ito ay popular na hinihintuan ng manlalakbay para mag photoshoot dahil makikita dito ang matataas, puti at pulang mga puno ng mahogany. Ang gubat na ito ay matatagpuan sa hangganan na napapagitnaan ng Loboc at Bilar.

Ang mga manlalakbay na dumaraan sa gubat na ito ay mararanasan ang pag bugso ng masarap na temperatura at malamig na simoy ng hangin, ito ay dahil ang matataas na puno ay humaharang sa sikat ng araw.

Maliban sa Chocolate Hills, ang Bohol ay kilala dahil sa kanilang hayop na may malalaking mata, ang mga Tarsiers. Ang mga tarsiers ay mga hayop na aktibo sa gabi, ito ay kasinlaki ng kamay ng tao at napaka sensitibo sa tunog. Hindi magiging kompleto ang bakasyon o paglalakbay mo sa Bohol kung hindi mo makikita ang maliit na hayop na ito. Kaya habang nasa Chocolate Hills ka, bisitahin ang sanktuaryo ng mga tarsier at gawing sulit ang iyong pamamasyal.

Ang Chocolate Hills ay Isang “must-visit” ng mga-

Mahilig mamasyal

Para sa mga mahilig sa paglalakbay, kung saan nasa dugo at kaluluwa na nila ang kagustuhang maranasan at masaksihan ang ganda ng mga natural na likas sa yaman sa mundo, ay dapat talagang bisitahin ang Chocolate Hills. Ang nakakamanghang lugar na ito ay tiyak na uukit sa iyong puso magpakailan man.

Manunulat

Para sa mga mahilig sumulat at kumuha ng inspirasyon sa kalikasan, ang lugar na ito ay hindi lamang magbibigay sayo ng sandaling makakapagsabi ka ng “Aha!”, ngunit dahil din sa mga misteryosong alamat, nakakamanghang kwento, at komplikadong heolohikal na pagkakabuo, ay maka pagbibigay ng nakakaenganyong kwento, o maari ding maka pagbigay ng mga ideya at pundasyon para sa iyong mga sulatin.

Para sa mahilig sa mga adventurous trekking

Ang Chocolate Hills ay isa sa mga pinakamagandang lokasyon sa pag tetreking at iba pang mga adventures sa Pilipinas. Ang lugar na ito ay puno ng mga likas na halaman at mga hayop pati na rin mga talon, na talaga namang kaakit-akit. Ngunit walang grupo ng mga nagtitrekk ang regular dito kaya siguraduhing munang magpalista kasama sila.

Ang Chocolate Hills – Isang Natatanging Lugar para sa Honeymoon

Sa mga magsing-irog na gusto ng kakaibang honeymoon, ito ang perpektong lugar para dito. Ang Chocolate Hills, maliban sa pagiging kamangha-mangha ay mayroon ding mga kweba at batis sa patag nito na mahohook ka sa kagandahan nito. Ang parteng ito ng burol, ay ang pinaka magandang lokasyon kung saan mabubuo ang mga magagandang alaala at kahanga-hangang karanasan

Mga Kailangang dalhin bago bumisita sa Chocolate Hills:

Komportable at cotton na damit
Magaang bag o luggage
Insect-repellent
Magaan na sidlanan
Kamera na maganda ang kondisyon para makakuha ng litrato ng kaaya-ayang tanawin

Kaya naman, ang Chocolate Hills na isa sa pinagmamalaki ng Pilipinas, ay hindi lamang nakapagbibigay ng adventure, kundi ito rin ay magandang lugar para sa mahilig sa natural na likas na yaman at mga mag sing-irog.

Konklusyon

Kahit marami ang agam-agam, mga alamat at hindi maipaliwanag na pagkakabuo o pinagmulan ng mahiwagang Chocolate hills, hindi maikukubli ang katotohanan na hindi lang ito mala-himalang kababalaghan kundi isang magandang tanawin at napaka sulit na bisitahin kahit isang beses lang sa ating buhay. Ang karanasan dito ay hindi mapapantayan. Bukod sa tanawin, marami pang mga aktibidad ang pwede mong gawin. Sa pamamagitan ng pag-bisita sa mga lugar tulad ng Chocolate Hills ay matutuklasan mo ang kagandahan at kababalaghan sa natural nitong anyo.

Chocolate Hills Bohol Philippines @ Copyright ExploreTraveler 2021

Bahay Kubo: Tradisyonal na pamumuhay ng Filipino sa Bukid

Unraveling The Mystery Behind The Famed Chocolate Hills In Bohol, Philippines

Walang Kapantay Na Oras sa Isla ng Cebu

Ligaw na Kabute na Matatagpuan sa Pilipinas

Bakasyon at Scuba Diving sa Coral Reefs ng Pilipinas

Unraveling The Mystery Behind The Famed Chocolate Hills In Bohol, Philippines

January 12, 2021 by John Gentry Leave a Comment

Vacationing at different places of the world has been everybody’s dream at least once in a lifetime and only some of us are able to fulfill and live up to this dream. Although the Philippines is not among the top tourist destinations, it is only because it got its recognition later compared to the rest of the world. Replete with natural beauty and sightseeing areas, the Philippines is an exceptional experience and must be on your Bucket List for various reasons.

The Philippines As An Ideal Holiday Spot

Known for its beautiful beaches and delicious fruits, the Philippines was named after King Philip II of Spain. These collective islands are located in South East Asia and are home to various kinds of flora and fauna. Traveling to a place like the Philippines can be one of the best experiences one could get. A refreshing atmosphere, unique culture, and polite people might just be what you need if you are looking to get away from your tedious life for a while.

There are countless places to spend your time in the Philippines such as the famous Boracay, which is also considered as the capital of the Philippines. This particular place has more than 12 beaches and is perfect for someone who wants to just relax and experience water activities. Since the Philippines has more than 7000 islands, the most difficult decision a traveler has to make is to figure out which island to visit first.

Banaue, for instance, has strikingly beautiful rice terraces which just cannot go amiss once you are there. If history pleases you or you don’t mind spending time at a historic place, then the historical city of Vigan should be on your checklist. There are other stupendous cities and islands in the Philippines that are equally exotic and exhilarating such as Manila or Davao city. Manila, which is a vibrant city is always full of activities. You can roam around the city in jeepneys, which are the main form of public transport there. Davao, a metropolitan city, is a pleasant blend of urban as well as natural elements. In short, the city not only features malls and a large population, but is also home to nature reserves like the Eden Nature Park, Philippine Eagle Center, and the Davao Baywalk along the sea.

Chocolate Hills in Bohol As Your Destination

However, of all these, the island of Bohol in the Philippines, is perhaps, the best holiday destination that one should visit at least once in a lifetime. The place is home to one of the most famous Chocolate Hills in Carmen where hundreds of brown hills create an interesting scenic view, looking like little mountains of chocolates scattered within 50 kilometers square area. These natural wonders are worth paying a visit and seem surreal; their landscape being very impressive. It is the popular tourist spot of Bohol and is a 1-2 hour drive from Alona Beach. If you are from another country and planning a drive in the Philippines then you need to get an International Driver’s Permit.

About Chocolate Hills

To begin with, the Chocolate Mountains in the Philippines are a geological formation in the Bohol province of the Philippines and by now, most people reading this are probably wondering what makes these hills so popular and what is with the name. So the unusually peculiar thing about these majestic hills is that the hills which are usually covered in green grass turn chocolaty in color during dry seasons. These chocolaty and magnanimous hills are more than a thousand in number and are spread over an area of 50 square kilometers in the towns of Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan. The strange thing about these hills is despite the difference in their sizes when looked from afar, these hills look symmetrical nevertheless.

Chocolate Hills as a perfect shooting site

Chocolate Hills are reputed for being the best location for innumerable foreign and national films and television series. Due to its well-known and intriguing history, picturesque views, and fairytale like backdrop, the Chocolate Hills tour, Bohol, has been on television quite a few times. Cinephiles who revel in foreign films, especially South-East Asian ones, would be happy to know that films such as Aguila, Puri, Loveboat, Esteban, Muro-Ami, and international film Tigershark have been shot here. It’s the beauty of this spot that attracts people from across the world either for exploration or to feature this natural wonder in their documentaries or films.

Cuisines popular around the Chocolate Hills

By the end of the 20^th century, the cuisine of the Filipinos started getting known all around the world. Filled with authentic spices, it boasts of unique flavors. Today, one of the fastest booming street food markets is found in this country, and the diet includes dishes that are both palatable and healthy. Foodies must travel to this country at least once to experience the authentic cuisine which includes dishes such as Adobo, Sinigig, Kare-Kare, and Lechon.

Myths surrounding the Chocolate Hills

The Bohol Chocolate Hills, Philippines, is also sometimes considered as the eighth wonder of the world, obviously because of the unknown origin of these hills. So there are many myths associated with Chocolate Hills, Filipinos commonly speak of, which revolves around the formation of these hills. As per legends, these glorious hills have formed due to two feuding giants who pitched rocks, boulders, and sand at each other. All that was left after this feud was what we call Chocolate Hills today. Another legend talks about a heartbroken giant, whose tears led to the formation of these famous hills. Another myth says the hills are the dried feces of carabaos.

A Scientific Glance

What matters, although is the actual scientific explanation behind the formation of these hills. So the geological theory behind the formation of these phenomenal Chocolate Hills is that these hills were the result of the weathering of marine limestone. Further, according to a plaque exhibited at a viewing deck in the town of Carmen, these Chocolate Hills were a result of erosion of limestones which were uplifted above the sea level and were fractured due to tectonic processes and rests atop the hardened clay. Another theory suggests that the hills were coral reefs that erupted after a geological shift beneath the waters. So, irrespective of how these hills were formed, the fact is that the picturesque beauty of these hills is a major attraction and shouldn’t be missed while vacationing in the Philippines.

Best time to visit the Chocolate Hills

Most of us by now have at least acknowledged the Chocolate Hills as a spot for vacationing. So, the ideal time to visit the hills is during the dry season. It is when the grass begins to dry up making the hills look chocolaty in color. The season, therefore, begins in late November and lasts until May. But since the beauty of the Philippines lies in the unpredictability of its weather, it is better to get the weather updates before you begin your journey. Once you get there, there are two significant spots that should be considered to get the best view of Chocolate Hills.

Viewing deck of the Chocolate Hills complex

The Chocolate Hills complex is the main destination to get the best view of the Chocolate Hills. Located in Barangay, Buenos Aires, Carmen, Bohol, the Chocolate Hills complex is comprised of two chocolate hills which were developed years ago and were transformed into a complex with a cemented road that goes upward towards an activity area that includes swimming pools and restaurants with dazzling tall pine trees to shade the pathway. There are further rooms available at affordable prices for those who wish to stay overnight at the center of the Chocolate Hills. Given its high altitude, one can enjoy beautiful sunsets from the observation decks at the Chocolate Hills.

Sagbayan Peak

The Sagbayan Peak is another spot for the best view of these hills. It is a mountain resort and recreation center located in the town of Sagbayan that not only offers an astounding 360-degree view of the famed Chocolate Hills but also the distinct blue sea that separates the island of Bohol from the island of Cebu.

Things to do at the Chocolate Hills

Explore Chocolate Hills Adventure Park

You can take this exhilarating Chocolate Hills experience to the next level by visiting the adventure park. This is an eco-tourism park, located at Barangay Buenos Aires, Carmen. Once you are here, the biking midair or bike zip or the surf zipline is something you just cannot miss. This Chocolate Hills adventure is sure to give you an adrenaline rush. There are also several other facilities and activities available here such as the rope courses, wave runner and one can even spot several kinds of butterflies here and the rich flora and fauna in the “Ang Paru Paro”, butterfly garden.

Ride The Action-packed Chocolate Hills ATV rentals

Nature lovers are in for a treat at the Chocolate Hills because one can hit the trails by riding an ATV and get the best out of this trip. On their way to the Chocolate Hills, Carmen, travelers are bound to pass the captivating Bilar manmade forest, which adds a completely unique and mesmerizing touch to the whole adventure. It is a popular pit stop where one finds tall, white and red, Mahogany trees and people usually stop here for photoshoots. The manmade forest is situated on the borders of Loboc and Bilar.

Travelers passing through this forest will experience a sudden and pleasant change in the temperature where they are greeted with a cool breeze as the tall and dense trees here block the sun entirely.

Apart from Chocolate Hills, Bohol is also known for its big-eyed mammals, the Tarsiers. These are nocturnal creatures about the size of a human hand and are extremely sensitive to sound. No adventure in Bohol is complete without seeing these small creatures. So while you are around Chocolate Hills, you might as well visit a tarsier sanctuary and make the most out of your adventure.

The Chocolate Hills are a must-visit for-

The Wanderlust

For the ones who love traveling and it is in their blood and soul to experience every natural marvel on earth; they must visit the Chocolate Hills. The breathtaking site will blow your mind away and will be forever inscribed in your hearts.

The Writers

For those who love to play with the words and love to take inspiration from nature, this place will not only gift you the Aha! Moment, but its mysterious legends, fascinating stories, and its perplexing geological existence can provide interesting plots to your stories, or can also give you ideas and foundations for your writings.

For the Adventurous Trekkers

Chocolate Hills is one of the best locations for trekking and other such adventures in Philippines. The place is replete with flora and fauna with the backdrop of small waterfalls, which are a treat for the eyes. There is no dearth of good trekking groups that conduct regular treks here so make sure you pre-register with them.

The Chocolate Hills- A Unique Place for Honeymoon

For couples who want an offbeat destination for their honeymoon; this is the perfect place to be at. The Chocolate Hills apart from being magnificent also have many caves and springs on its plains that will keep you hooked to this beauty. These spots are the best locations for capturing a lot of memories and impressive experiences.

Things to prepare for, before going to the Chocolate Hills:

Comfortable, cotton clothing
Light luggage
Insect-repellent
Light-weight bottles
A good conditioned camera to catch the picturesque landscapes.

So Chocolate Hills, the pride of the Philippines, not only features unlimited adventurous activities but is also a great spot for nature lovers and couples alike.

Conclusion

Therefore, despite the unknown origin and several myths and legends about the majestic Chocolate Hills, one needs to admit the simple fact that these hills are not just miraculously phenomenal, but are as scenic and worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. The experience can be exemplary and truly awesome. Besides, there are several other fun activities one can indulge in once here. So traveling to places like the Chocolate Hills will let you explore the natural wonders in their best forms.

Pangingisda Sa Pilipinas

January 1, 2021 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

gamit sa pangingisda ngayon — Pangingisda Sa Pilipinas

Tingnan Ang Iyong Bawat Hakbang Sa Daungang Gawa Sa Lumang Kawayan

Pangingisda Sa Taas ng Dagat

Ang pangingisda sa Pilipinas, ay katulad sa walang katapusang paghahabulan ng pusa at daga, ay isa sa paraan ng pamumuhay sa Pilipinas. Sa mainit at maalinsangan hapon, ang mga mangingisda ay naghahanda sa kanilang mga bangka para sa gabing pangingisda. Ang tahimik na nayon ay nabubuhay na ka kagaya ng mga bloke ng yelo isinasakay sa kahoy na bangka. Minsan ay mas lalong nahihirapan ang mga mangingisda , na maaring tumaob ang Bangka sa dulo ng pinaka lumang daungan ng bangkang gawa sa kawayan. Ang mga daungang ito ay ginagamit pa rin ng mga bhasang mangingisda na ginagamit ito n g may pag-aalaga. Walang lugar dito ang pag-kakamali! Ang pangingisda ay ang pangunahing ikinabubuhay dito kaya ang ganitong daungan ay simpleng problema lamang sa kanila. Sa pag dating ng gabi ang mga bangkang gawa sa kahoy ay ilalagay na sa karagatan….patungo sa gawi na kung nasaan ang maraming mga isda.

Ang bangka ay may kawayan na batangan upang mabigyan sila ng matatag na sasakyan sa magaspang na tubig ng dagat. Ang bangka na ginagamit sa pangingisda ay karaniwang hindi hihigit sa 30 talampakan ang haba. Ang mga maliliit na bangkang pangisda ay gumana sa bahurang panahon ng mainit na gabi. Ang mga mangingisdang ito ay pa tungo sa mayamang bahura sa China Sea. Dito ay umaasa silang makahuli ng blue marlin, red grouper, yello-fin na tuna,at mga ulang ilan lamang itong uri ng pagkaing dagat ang maari nilang mahuli sa lugar. Maraming uri ng isda ang naninirahan sa bahurang ito. Ang pangingisda sa bahurang ito ay ang ikinabubuhay ng mga mangingusda sa Pilipinas. Ang ganitng bahura ay isang mala langit na lugar para sa mga tao na ang pinagkakakitaan ay ang dagat.

Sa panahon kung saan madalas na may mga Internasyunal na alitan at internasyonal na pagaagawan sa bahura, ang mga mangingisda ay laging nasa harap ng linya. Maraming mga araw na ang kanilang nadadalang isda sa kanilang daongan ay pa unti ng pa unti. Ang pangingisda ay isang paraan ng kanilang pinamumuhay at ang isda ay ang pangunahing pinagkukunan ng protinang kinakain sa Pilipinas. Kaya henerasyon pagkatapos ng henerasyon ng mangingisda ang gumawa ng kanilang mga paraan ng pangingisda sa dagat sa bawat gabi. Ang kanilang pag-asa ……. ang maka hatak ng maraming isda hangga’t kaya nila.

Pangingisda ay ang pangunahing pinagkukunan ng kita para sa marami sa mga maliliit na nayon. Pagsasaka ng palay din ay isa sa mga pangunahing napagkukunan kada segundo. Wala silang iba pang mga industriya upang asahan. Ikaw ay kung hindi man magbubukid tiyak na isang mangingsida. Kung ikaw ay anak ng isang mangingisda …… tiyak na ikaw ay mangingisda. Kung ang iyong ama naman ay isang magsasaka … .ikaw ay isang magsasaka. Kaya sa baba ng baybayin ng dagat may komunidad na naghihintay sa bawat umaga, upang makita ang bangkang pangisda na bumalik sa daungan. Sila ay nangisda buong magdamag kaya umaasang meron silang huling maraming mackerel o di kaya ay pugita.

Pababa sa daungan sa maliit na nayon ng mga mangingisda ay mga asawa ng mga mangingisda na naghintay buong magdamag at ngayon ay naghahanap kung nasaan na ang kanilang mga asawa at umuwi na sa kanilang mga tahanan. Ito marahil ay tahimik na nayon, ngunit ang mga ito ay mga gising kapag sila ay tinatawag na…… ang bangkang pangisda ay dumadating na! Ang mga pamilya ng mangingisda ay isang kaponan, na kung saan ang mga kababaihang asawa ng ga angingisda ay tinatahi ang kanilang mga lambat na nasira ng nagdaang pangingisda sa gabi. Ang mga bangka ay isang beses muling dadaong sa mga maliit na daungang kawayan, ang mga isda ay inilalagak at binibenta. Ang restawrant at palengke ang higit na nananabik na makuha ang kanilang parte, sa huli kada araw. Ang isda ay kinakain ng karamihan ng mga lokal na populasyon. Magandang at sariwang isda ay nararapat, kung nais mong upang manatili sa negosyo.

Ang mga anak na lalaki ang naglilinis ng bangka para sa susunod na gabi at ang mangingisda ay umuuwi na sa kanilang tahanan upang matulog. Di lang magtatagal ay mangingisda uli ang mga mangingisda. Ito ang buhay ng isang nayon ng mga mangingisda sa Pilipinas.

Ang ExploreTraveler ay naglilikha ng mga artikulo sa paglalakbay, mga libro, mga video, at mga podcast para sa ilang taon na ngayon. Ito ay ang aming layunin upang dalhin ang aming mas lumang mga materyales para sa iba upang tamasahin ditto, at upang lumikha ng mga bagong materyal dito pati na rin. Inaanyayahan ka naming i-click ang aming mga link sa mga orihinal na nilalaman, at upang sundan din kami doon.

Ang post na ito ay orihinal nai-publish sa Marso 23, 2015 sa:

Fishing in the Philippines

Kung ikaw ay galing sa aming mga social media channels tulad ng Facebook o Twitter isaalang-alang ang pagkuha ng iyong libreng account, at siguraduhin na sundan ang lahat sa amin @exploretraveler @pilgrimtraveler @johngentry @vetvso @johngentryjr @karengentry @elijahgentry @floridagypsy at susundan ka namin pabalik.

“Ang pagtulong na dalhin sa mundo ng sama-sama ang isang kaibigan sa isang pagkakataon. Kaya maglakbay at tuklasin na ang mundo ay puno ng mga kahanga-hangang mga tao.” – ExploreTraveler

@exploretraveler

Mayroon kaming isang travel tip audio na libro na makakatulong sa iyo at maaari kang bumili sa

Audible –> Here

Maligayang Paglalakbay,

ExploreTraveler Team

Tuklasin ang Misteryo ng Chocolate Hills sa Bohol, Philippines

Isla ng Malapascua — Pilipinas

Bahay Kubo: Tradisyonal na pamumuhay ng Filipino sa Bukid

Asul na Alimangong Lumalngoy: Filipino Delicacy

Bundok ng Amandiwin sa Leyte, Pilipinas

Isla Ng Pilipinas: Ang Kamangha-manghang Paglalakbay

Buko Juice: Paborito Ng Mga Pilipino

Exploring Mount Nebo

December 11, 2020 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Mount Nebo Adventure

“The Promised Land” as Seen by ‪Moses on the top of Mount ‪Nebo in‪ Jordan is breathtaking. Mount Nebo is over 3,000 feet high and is just NW of Madaba across from the Northernmost part of the Dead Sea. According to ancient tradition, it was from Mount Nebo that Moses looked out over “The Promised Land” before he died. We have the account of this experience recorded for us in the 34th chapter of the Book of Deuteronomy in the Hebrew Scriptures.

“Then Moses climbed Mount Nebo from the plains of Moab to the top of Pisgah, across from Jericho. There the Lord showed him the whole land… Then the Lord said to him, “This is the land I promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob when I said, ‘I will give it to your descendants.’ I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it.”

“And Moses the servant of the Lord died there in Moab, as the Lord had said. He buried him in Moab, in the valley opposite Beth Peor, but to this day no one knows where his grave is.” Deuteronomy 34:1-6

Mount Nebo is an important site for Jews, Arabs, and Christians. Many visitors and pilgrims come to Jordan to visit this famous mountain in the land of Moab. Many Christians include this area in their pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

The site is owned and cared for by the Franciscan Order of the Roman Catholic Church. They have discovered many treasures from an earlier church on the site. They have found, not only significant remains of the early Byzantine Church itself but many magnificent Byzantine mosaics. At the current time, a small simple structure has been built over these remains to protect them. The site is dedicated to Moses.

As Far As The Eye Can See

As for as, the eye can see is the Holy Land as seen from Mount Nebo. It is amazing! Think about looking out over the side of Mount Nebo and seeing across the Holy Land and beyond. You literally see all of the Holy Land and even beyond its borders. Looking toward the north is the valley of the River Jordan. The West Bank and the city of Jericho can usually be seen from the summit. Also on a clear day, you can see the City of Jerusalem. What a magnificent view! What is the History of this astonishing view? Why is Mount Nebo so special? Come along with us as we explore the history of Jordan’s Mount Nebo.

In exploring the writings of the Fourth Century, we meet a Pilgrim Nun named Egeria. In her writings, she shares about a Sanctuary built on Mount Nebo to honor Moses. It is thought that this church was built on the site of an earlier sanctuary. This church was completed in the year 394. This large church had three apses or semicircles on the Eastside. The altar was located in the apses with arches and a domed roof. Two funeral chapels completed the building. One was on the Northside and the other on the South side. What a magnificent building it must have been!

During the Sixth Century, we see even more change and excitement for this small church. The church was enlarged and then made into a Basilica. The Basilica was completed with a sacristy and new baptistery. There are many surviving floor mosaics that date from c.530 AD. The mosaics are beautiful! Soon after, a large monastery was built and a pilgrimage center. This was a thriving Basilica and Monastery for over six centuries. The Pilgrimage Center was constantly in use. Many Muslims visit the Memorial Church of Moses each year. Moses is considered a prophet to Christians, Muslims, and Jews alike. Many pilgrimages continue to this day.

This outstanding site was mostly abandoned by 1564. It remained highly neglected for many centuries. It was purchased by the Franciscan Order in 1993. The site was then excavated and restored. The modern additions to the excavated church have been very simple. They are little more than a basic shelter that protects the excavations and ancient mosaic floors.

On March 19, 2000, Pope John Paul II was its first distinguished visitor. He came to the chapel during his pilgrimage to the Holy Land. While he was there he planted an Olive Tree next to the Benzidine Chapel For Peace.

Today, Mount Nebo is an active Franciscan Monastery. The Franciscan Archaeological Institute also has its headquarters within the Monastery. This is a special stop for both visitors and pilgrims. Many come every year to walk in the steps of Moses.

The Great Rock On Mount Nebo

The Great Stone on Mount ‪Nebo is believed to be from the Tomb of Jesus. It stands today‬ as a memorial to ‪Moses. During recent years, the rock has been measured and found to fit the tomb exactly. The tomb also has the original stop for the rock when moved into place. Today it stands on the very spot that it is thought that Moses stood to look at the “Promised Land.” What a spectacular view!

Brazen Serpent Monument

A serpentine cross sculpture stands at the top of the Mountain. This was the creation of Italian artist Giovanni Fantoni. This monument is symbolic of the bronze serpent that was created by Moses in the wilderness. The words of Jesus in John 3:14 appear on the Monument.

“As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up.”

The story of the bronze serpent is found in the Hebrew Bible in Numbers 21:4-9. The cross symbolizes the Cross on which Jesus was crucified. The words are recorded in the New Testament Scriptures in John 3:14.

The Ancient Baptistery

As you enter the Memorial Church of Moses on Mount Nebo, keep to the left for a magnificent surprise. You will see the excavated Baptistery complete with the most spectacular mosaics ever excavated. These magnificent mosaics can be skillfully dated to August 531, thanks to an inscription in Greek. It also lists the three workers on this project and the Bishop at the time it was built. The Bishop listed was Bishop Elias.

These amazing pristine mosaics were preserved in part, due to a second Baptistery that was laid over the top of the ancient Baptistery in 597. These spectacular mosaics remained undiscovered for over 1400 years. It was not until the excavation in 1976 that the first mosaic was found. It was restored and hangs on a wall.

These mosaics were very large squares that were divided into 4 real-life strips. These strips contained scenes of men and animals depicting a way of life. Each had a nice border. The top two sections depict extreme hunting scenes. The first scene shows a humble shepherd fighting a lion and the second a soldier in a fierce fight with a lioness. The other scene shows two horseback hunters engaged in a fight with a bear and a wild boar. All four of these mosaics show the precise detail of the artist.

The bottom scenes are very pastoral and calming. The first shows a shepherd watching after his sheep and goats while under the cover of a tree. The second depicts a darker-skinned man leading an Ostrich on a leash. Another scene shows a young boy with a Zebra on a leash. The final scene shows a large spotted animal that looks much like a camel, though it could also be a zebra.

There are many more mosaics hanging in the central section of the church and on the side aisles. There are many pieces of the almost 600 tiles that made up the magnificent mosaic pavement. One of the most outstanding and oldest mosaics is a braided cross that is displayed on the south wall. There are also many mosaics taken from the Church of George in Mukhiya. These mosaics have a very old Arabic script, though it is not yet clear which one or how old.

To one side of the Baptistry hangs an extraordinary mosaic cross. The cross was excavated from the original Fourth Century Church and now hangs on the new modern altar. Next to the altar is a photograph of the Pope praying at this modern altar. The cross is shown in the background.

Theotokos Chapel

As you prepare to exit the Memorial Church of Moses there is a simple chapel over three of the rooms of the old Monastery. In the semi-circles on the East side of the church is a mosaic of a square object that may be a vessel used for the Eucharist or maybe an altar canopy. The mosaic also features many bulls and gazelles. The floor of the chapel is laid with many original mosaics of plants and animals of the time period. All these shed light on what life was like during the fourth to the seventh centuries.

The Ancient Monastery

On the highest section of Mount Nebo, Syagha were found the complete remains of an ancient Byzantine church and the original monastery. These were found in the excavation of 1933. The walls of this ancient monastery can be seen as you exit and go outside.

Today the work of excavation continues as visitors and monks work and pray hand in hand. Morning and evening there is prayer in the monastery and all workers who desire are welcome to join. There are simple accommodations for a few workers at a time. During the day the many workers continue to locate the new treasure and categorize the previous treasure found. The work is exacting but many hands make the labor easier. There is an atmosphere of prayer and meditation as they work. Today’s life on Mount Nebo is guided by a principle of simplicity and hard work.

Caves on Mount Nebo

The Mount Nebo Mountain Range is home to many caves. Some of these caves are shallow and open and others are deep and closed off. One of the deepest mysteries of Mount Nebo is the whereabouts of the Ark of the Covenant. According to the ancient Hebrew writings of the Maccabees, it was hidden in a cave on Mount Pisgah, the highest peak in the Mount Nebo Mountain Range. According to Second Maccabees, Jeremiah carried the tent, the ark, and the incense altar into a cave on Mount Pisgah and then sealed the opening. The account in Second Maccabees reads as follows:

2 Maccabees 2:4-8

^4″These same records also tell us that Jeremiah, acting under divine guidance, commanded the Tent of the Lord’s Presence and the Covenant Box to follow him to the mountain where Moses had looked down on the land which God had promised our people. ⁵When Jeremiah got to the mountain, he found a huge cave, and there he hid the Tent of the Lord’s Presence, the Covenant Box, and the altar of incense. Then he sealed up the entrance.

⁶Some of Jeremiah’s friends tried to follow him and mark the way, but they could not find the cave. ⁷When Jeremiah learned what they had done, he reprimanded them, saying,

No one must know about this place until God gathers his people together again and shows them mercy. ⁸At that time he will reveal where these things are hidden, and the dazzling light of his presence will be seen in the cloud, as it was in the time of Moses and on the occasion when Solomon prayed that the Temple might be dedicated in holy splendor.”

Whatever your belief about the Ark of the Covenant, one thing is for certain, it is one of the possible mysteries of the Mount Nebo Mountain Range. Archaeologist Crotser, in the fall of 1981, is said to have found the ark and took pictures. No one has dared to touch it. They all remember what happened in the days of old when someone dared to touch this unique golden box. So for now, it still remains one of the mysteries of Mount Nebo in Jordan.

If you are looking for adventure, then consider Mount Nebo. Go beyond the Memorial Church of Moses and climb the beautiful mountain range. Explore all the ruins and treasures. Find the answer to many questions by spending time exploring the wonderful mosaics of the original baptistry. Grab your passport and pack your backpack. Get the necessary permissions if you want to hike the mountain range. A Jordan adventure is waiting in the Mount Nebo Mountain Range.

There is also an authorized post on seemit under @exploretraveler at: https://steemit.com/@exploretraveler

https://exploretraveler.com/treasures-old-city-jerusalem/

The Church Of The Nativity In Bethlehem Israel

The Church Of The Annunciation In Nazareth, Israel

‎Nazareth from the Mount of ‪‎Precipice

The Tepe Sialk Ziggurat In Iran

November 7, 2020 by ExploreTraveler Leave a Comment

The Tepe Sialk Ziggurat Of The

Siyalk Culture

Image from nl.wikipedia.org

There are times when I begin to plan our travels based on my interests and the type of history I might find. My writings and research and normally centered around ancient sites and the Tepe Sialk Ziggurat is one of those lesser-known sites due to its location being in Iran. Now one may or may not have difficulty getting there depending on where they are from and the passport they carry. We may not be able to get there today but wanted to shed some light on this location so others may be able to visit even if we cannot today. I recently looked at this site up again and found there to be much more available, and the current anthropologists in Iran to be continuing to write papers on their findings there. I’m going to be adding some additional information here along with photographs of some of the pottery they have found.

The Tepe Sialk ziggurat is found today in present-day Iran, but the area is known to be the earliest culture in Iran, and the Siyalk culture found in the north-central part of that land at Tepe Siyalk near Kashan and Chashmah Ali near Teheran. The Siyalk culture is the earliest known culture of the pre-Halaf cultures of northern Mesopotamia and Syria. It must be mentioned that to the south you had the Sumerians of southern Mesopotamia. With these cultures so close together and possibly connected since there are similar construction methods between the two cultures. (Ghirshman 1935)

The area around this site has been dated back to 7500 BC and the temple base structure has been preliminarily dated to around 3000 BC. However, the dating of this structure is not fully accepted due to the additional need for additional data and dating using different methods. The structure of the Tepe Sialk structure or (ziggurat) is very similar to the more recent structures built in southern Mesopotamia. The main difference is that this structure does not use steps and instead uses a ramp that one walks to the top where the temple structure would be for religious ceremonies. (Potts 2009)

The monument’s purpose of the structure is to one serve as a central structure which the people use as a central place of religious activities, and assuming the similarities to other cultures of the region would have also stored excess grain from the area’s surplus. A religious class of people would have taken care of the temple, and there would have been a form of centralized government. We don’t have enough information to assume a king or royal class ruled this early city but there were different types of skilled workers. Evidence of highly developed pottery and the use of mud brick technologies is visible from the earliest excavations.

Archaeological work conducted here is limited but two researchers stand out. Roman Ghirshman excavated the site in the 1930s with a commission from France. His work is currently available in French and I believe some of the most detailed available information on the site before it began to be pillaged. Iranian researcher S. M. Shahmirzadi been studying the site and has proposed to consider this site a ziggurat dating to the Proto-Elamite Layer IV. This date is based on pottery uncovered in the debris around the monument. His work has begun to develop an Iranian team of anthropologists who might also be able to continue work on the site. (Ghirshman 1935; Potts 2009)

The reason I have chosen this site has to do with the following. Anthropology and archaeology are fields for the acquisition of our human past, and I am an individual who picks up on discrepancies quickly and enjoys looking for the additional pieces of the puzzle to better understand areas where there is a lack of understanding our hypothesis that is outdated and needs to be re-looked at. This particular site throws several changes into the timelines of the ziggurat builders and gives us at a minimum across a cultural exchange of ideas almost one thousand years earlier. Unfortunately, the site is also not fully excavated and honestly needs an international team to develop and to help the Iranians fully categorize the tremendous amounts of material and artifacts that would be found if done. I suspect that these peoples were connected to the Sumerians of southern Mesopotamia and they may have to join ancestors or directly connected by lineage. With western civilization a tremendous amount of connections to this area I am hopeful the area will be fully studied one day.

References Cited

Ghirshman, R.

1935 Rapport Préliminaire, Sur Les Fouilles De Tépé Sialk, Près De Kashan (Iran). Syria, vol. 16, no. 3, 1935, pp. 229–246.

McCown, Donald E.

1942 The Material Culture of Early Iran. Journal of Near Eastern Studies, vol. 1, no. 4, pp. 424–449.

Potts, Daniel.

2009 Bevel-Rim Bowls and Bakeries: Evidence and Explanations from Iran and the Indo-Iranian Borderlands. Journal of Cuneiform Studies, vol. 61, pp. 1–23.

Nipa Huts in Philippines: Traditional Filipino Rural Living

October 15, 2020 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Nipa Hut in the Philippines — Traditional Filipino Nipa Hut

Traditional Nipa Huts in the Philippines

Nipa Huts are a living symbol of rural life in the Philippines. It is the home of yesterday that has changed and survived even until today. Nipa Huts or Bahay Kubos are an icon of Philippine rural living. They are built differently in different areas, according to the conditions and circumstances of the area. Nipa Huts are a living Pilipino icon.

There is no real definition of how a Nipa Hut is made, but there are several things that most have in common. The conditions in the Philippine lowlands have led to some basic similarities. Most of these huts are built-in three layers. Depending on whether they are in or near water. Most Nipa huts are built on stilts. Since most of the island has water to deal with, usually the bottom part of the hut allows the water to freely go under the hut. This is true especially near the coast and in boggy areas. There are a few exceptions to this rule in modern times, but it is followed even today in most areas. Only some of the materials have changed. Today, often the stilts are simple concrete cinder blocks rather than the traditional hardwood. Regardless of the materials used, the benefit to this style is protection from floods, and also it keeps small animals out of the living area, such as rats.

Above the stilts is the living area or the tagalong. This area is accessed by a ladder. It is built open and is well ventilated to help keep the home cooler and to allow natural light to penetrate the home. They often have bamboo slats for floors, which allow the cool air to come up from the silong. The Philippines is very hot and humid, so the traditional Nipa hut allows for cooling. There may or may not be a ceiling. Often times the ceiling is not built to allow the hot air to rise and leave through the roof.

The roof is usually tall and steeply pitched, creating a space above the living area for the hot air to go. They are built with thatch, a material that is readily available. This gives the hut a cooling effect in the long hot humid summers. These roofs also were the reason many of these small huts survived the ash fall from the Mt. Pinatubo eruption. Many more modern homes succumbed to the weight of the ash and collapsed.

While modern Nipa huts have changed, the design has stayed basically the same. The walls are often built with bamboo rods or mats to allow the house to be cool in the hot summers and warm in the rainy season. They are still built-in a square shape and are left open for light and coolness. The windows are large to help give light and often are held open with a long bamboo rod, to allow for airflow. This is the modern Nipa hut—an icon that has survived and adapted over time.

On your next trip to Southern Leyte, Philippines, take a trip to the rural areas and see living Filipino history. History is alive in the Philippines, so pack your bag and grab your passport. Make this the year you explore the Southern Leyte, Philippines.

How to build your own Nipa Hut

These days many of us are getting closer to nature or deciding to go back to our roots. Sometimes spending less money is best, and a simple Filipino style Nipa Hut can really help you be comfortable while keeping costs low. This video shows you in great detail how to build your own.

Exploretraveler.com

This is also an authorized post on steemit under @exploretraveler at:

https://steemit.com/travel/@exploretraveler/nipa-huts-traditional-filipino-rural-living

Bahay Kubo: Tradisyonal na pamumuhay ng Filipino sa Bukid

October 15, 2020 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Nipa Huts in the Philippines — Traditional Filipino Nipa Hut

Tradisyonal na Bahay Kubo

Ang Bahay Kubo ay isang simbolo ng pamumuhay ng buhay sa bukid sa Pilipinas. Ito ang tahanan ng kahapon na nagbago at napanatili hanggang ngayon. Ang Nipa Huts o Bahay Kubo ay isang simbolo ng pamumuhay sa rural ng Pilipinas. Ang mga ito ay naiiba sa iba’t ibang lugar, ayon sa mga kondisyon at kalagayan ng lugar. Ang Bahay Kubo ay isang simbolo ng pamumuhay ng mga Filipino.

Walang tunay na kahulugan kung paano ginawa ang isang bahay kubo, ngunit mayroong maraming mga bagay na karamihan ay magkakatulad. Ang mga kondisyon sa mababang lupain ng Pilipinas ay humantong sa ilang mga pangunahing pagkakatulad. Karamihan sa mga kubo ay nakapaloob sa tatlong pinagpatong-patong. Depende sa kung sila ay nasa o malapit sa tubig. Karamihan sa mga kubo ng Nipa ay itinayo sa mga tungtungan. Dahil ang karamihan sa isla ay may tubig, kadalasan ang ilalim na bahagi ng kubo ay naabot ng tubig na malayang nakakapunta sa ilalim ng kubo. Ito ay totoo lalo na malapit sa baybayin at sa mga lugar na nakapalibot. May ilang mga eksepsiyon sa panuntunang ito sa mga modernong panahon, ngunit sinusunod ito ngayon sa karamihan ng mga lugar. Tanging ang ilan sa mga materyal ay nagbago. Sa ngayon, madalas ang mga tungtungan ay simpleng kongkreto mga bloke ng cinder kaysa sa tradisyonal na kahoy. Anuman ang mga materyales na ginagamit, ang benepisyo sa estilo na ito ay proteksyon mula sa mga baha at pinapanatili din nito ang mga maliliit na hayop sa labas ng lugar, tulad ng mga daga.

Sa itaas ng mga tungtungan ay ang living area o ang tagalong. Ang lugar na ito ay naka dikit sa hagdanan. Ginawa ito nang bukas at maayos ang bentilasyon upang makatulong na mapanatili na malamig ang tahanan at upang makapasok ang natural na liwanag na tumagos sa tahanan. Kadalasan ay may mga slats ng kawayan para sa sahig, na nagbibigay ng malamig na hangin na lumabas mula sa silong. Ang Pilipinas ay napakainit at mahalumigmig, kaya ang tradisyunal na bahay kubo ay nagbibigay-daan para sa paglamig. Pwedeng meron o walang kisame. Kadalasan hindi gumagawa nang kisame upang makalabas ang mainit na hangin sa taas ng nipa at umalis sa bubong.

Ang bubong ay karaniwan nang mataas at matarik na tila,lumilikha ng espasyo sa itaas ng sala para ang mainit na hangin ay dumaloy. Ang mga ito ay binuo na may thatch, isang materyal na madaling magagamit. Nagbibigay ito ng malamig na pakiramdam sa kubo sa mahabang mainit na mainit na tag-init. Ang mga bubong din ay ang dahilan kung bakit marami sa mga maliliit na kubo ang nakaligtas sa pagkahulog ng abo mula sa Mt. Pinatubonung sumabog ito. Maraming mas modernong mga tahanan ang di nakayanan ang bigat ng abo at bumagsak.

Bagaman nagbago ang mga modernong kubo ng Nipa, nanatiling pareho ang disenyo nito. Ang mga pader ay kadalasang itinatayo ng mga kawayan o mga banig na kawayan upang mabigyan ang bahay ng malamig na hangin sa mainit na tag-init at mainit-init sa tag-ulan. Itinayo pa rin ang mga ito sa isang parisukat na hugis at iniiwang bukas para sa liwanag at lamig. Ang mga bintana ay malaki upang makatulong na magbigay liwanag at madalas ay bukas sa isang mahabang kawayan, upang pahintulutanang pag daloy ng hangin. Ito ang modernong bahay kubo-isang simbolo na nakaligtas at inangkop sa paglipas ng panahon.

Sa iyong susunod na paglalakbay sa Southern Leyteng Pilipinas, maglakbay sa mga rural na lugar at makita ang buhay na kasaysayan sa Pilipinas. Ang kasaysayan ay buhay sa Pilipinas, kaya mag impake naat dahil ang iyong bag at kunin na ang iyong pasaporte.

Ang post na ito ay orihinal na na-publish noong Jan. 27,2015

Paano bumuo ng iyong sariling Nipa Hut

https://exploretraveler.com/nipa-huts-traditional-filipino-rural-living

Philippines Collection

Cebu Top 8 Tourist Attractions : In the New Normal

Mahiwagang Isla Ng Pilipinas

Ligaw na Kabute na Matatagpuan sa Pilipinas

Walang Kapantay Na Oras sa Isla ng Cebu

Isla Ng Pilipinas: Ang Kamangha-manghang Paglalakbay

Pangingisda Sa Pilipinas

Adventure Ng Paglalakbay sa Jeep Ng Pilipinas

Bundok ng Amandiwin sa Leyte, Pilipinas

Bakasyon at Scuba Diving sa Coral Reefs ng Pilipinas

Isla ng Panaon: Southern Leyte, Pilipinas

@floridagypsy at susundan ka namin pabalik.

“Ang pagtulong na dalhin sa mundo ng sama-sama ang isang kaibigan sa isang pagkakataon. Kaya maglakbay at tuklasin na ang mundo ay puno ng mga kahanga-hangang mga tao.” – ExploreTraveler

@exploretraveler

Mayroon kaming isang travel tip audio na libro na makakatulong sa iyo at maaari kang bumili sa

Audible –> Here

Maligayang Paglalakbay,

ExploreTraveler Team

A Trip To Goa: Guide To Top Spots In Goa

May 14, 2020 by John Gentry Leave a Comment

The cold winds of November had just begun and we could tell that the winter is arriving, by the peculiar fragrance that it brings along in North India. On one such cold, November morning in 2019, we began our journey to Goa via flight from Delhi. Already dazzled by the thought of going to Goa, the dream destination for almost everyone, I had been packing the bags for months and impatiently waiting for the day when I arrive in Goa. I had planned this trip for almost half a year then wanted to roam all around. My trip experience might layout a fantastic insight into the possibilities and a Greater impression of what exactly you will experience if you’re planning a holiday to Goa. Hoping to capture some Goa sunshine, culture, and character.

I had heard so much about the place that as soon as we arrived there after a 4-hour journey, overwhelmed with the beauty, we forgot all the tiredness and fatigue. We already had booked out an apartment via Airbnb in Arpora, located in north Goa. You will have plenty of options to stay in Goa, you can stay in a luxurious 5-star resort, as well as easily find vibrant Hostel stays starting from just INR 500 per person. We choose Arpora to stay, as it is located centrally, from which we could easily explore the surrounding beaches of Baga and Calangute. Additionally, The Inland village of Arpora, also gives you the luxury to be able to head back to your rural retreat at the end of a busy day.

Transportation in Goa

Getting around Goa is not much of an issue. There are various transportation options available while you roam about in the city. There are privately operated buses connecting major towns of Goa and rural areas. If you’re landing onto the airport, you can easily hire a private taxi at a reasonable price. While roaming about in the city, the most preferred mode of transport here is self-driven bikes. These bikes are easily available on rent everywhere at as cheap as INR 300 for a day. These scooter bikes allow you to explore local places swiftly through narrow roads of Goa.

The Beaches in Goa

Goa’s popularity lies in its beaches; it is what Goa is famous for. They are the famous top spots in Goa. Tourists from all over the world travel all the way to Goa just to rejuvenate, reconnect, and enjoy. So like everybody else, we first hit the beach and spent almost a day there at the Calangute beach. Goa is popular for many other beaches such as the Baga beach, whose creek merges with the Arabian Sea. Baga beach has beach shacks and other side eateries which serve exquisite seafood, something that shouldn’t be miss in Goa. The Colva beach is just another gorgeous beach in Goa, which is covered with white sand. Then comes the Vagator beach, Anjuna beach, and several other beaches, for which Goa is known for across the globe. And Special mentions for my favorite, Arambol Beach. It’s probably the cleanest and Silent beach, located furthermost north to all beaches in Goa. The best time to be on Arambol beach is the Evening time, where you can experience the euphonious music beats by drum circle, which will make your soul dance and celebrate Goa’s majestic twilight.

evening time in arambol beach — Arambol Beach, Drum Circle In Evening

Water Sports in Goa

In Goa you will find ample opportunities for adventure enthusiasts to explore the waters in as many ways possible as you want. As Adventure lovers, we too thought of getting the best of this exciting land! We opted for a water sport package which included boat ride to Grande Island, Parasailing, Scuba diving, Banana Tube Boat Ride, and Jet Skiing. The experience I had while doing each activity was worth each penny spent. The Boat ride to Grande Island is in itself a worthwhile experience. Making a way through tides you will see merchant’s bungalow, Aguada fort, central jail, and mesmerizing beach views from the mid-sea. Not to forget if you’re lucky, you can also experience dolphins twirling in the way.

As we reached the Grande Island, It was time to have some adrenaline rush and enter the marine territory by much-awaited scuba diving. Here water depth ranges from 7-20 meters and you’ll find fishes, sea turtles, shellfish, and other exotic and colorful corals. Prior to the dive, you’ll be given a 20 minutes training session explaining all the dos and don’ts while we go underwater. A scuba instructor takes you inside the water to have an experience worth a lifetime. The shallow clear water conditions make this place ideal for diving for beginners as well as for expert divers.

Other water sport activities too are fun to experience, which can be done at most of the beaches in Goa. You can enjoy the thrill of flying in the sky and mesmerize the blue water of the Arabian Sea from high up by parasailing as well experience riding Water scooter through the splashing water tides, a complete combination of speed and thrill. If you’re with friends, don’t forget to experience a banana boat ride. The banana-shaped yellow boat is connected to a speedboat, which runs at a lightning speed and is made to flung off the passengers in the sea, and passengers have to start again by making to the boat again, which is an insane fun!

Nightlife in Goa

Goa can be said to be India’s Party Capital. As the sun goes down, you can experience groovy foot-tapping music at the beach. This happens at most of the beaches in Goa which makes Goa a hot spot for party animals. Whether you want to go crazy in glamorous nightclubs or want to sway with the music on wild beach shacks, Goa is the place to be! If you’re looking for good nightclubs, Tito’s Pub, LPK, SinQ and Club Cabana are the pick of them all and if you wish to have a party while adoring soothing sea view, Curlies Beach Shack is oldest yet the best option, located besides Anjuna Beach. Besides all days are party nights at Curlies, it has special night party events on Mondays as a Techno party and on Thursday as a Trance music party. Other than these, you have numerous party options spread over Tito’s lane offering all types of music from retro to hip hop, Trance to Techno, or from live bands to exploding Live Dj’s.

Arpora Saturday Flea Market — Scene at Saturday Night Flea Market, Arpora

It’s just not about the party that makes Goa’s nightlife magnetic, if you’re a shopping freak, you can explore the shops around Tito’s Lane, which are open all night. Saturday night flea market is yet another buzzing marketplace located in Arpora. This place is not just a great option for shopping but it also offers great Goa culture ambiance. In this hippie market you can enjoy live music, get a taste of delicious local food, shop for clothes, bags, antique jewelry, and much more. There are many party zones within the market for revelers to go crazy. So all in all, this market offers an exciting mix of shopping in a party atmosphere.

Chopara Fort, Goa

Chopara Fort, is the yet another famous destination amongst tourists visiting Goa. It is also known as “Dil Chahta Hai Fort” named after a famous Bollywood movie which was shot there. It has a historical importance as well. Present structure of the fort was built back in 1717, which was acquired by various rulers for varied periods of time. It is located from 10kms from Mapusa & rise up over the river Chopara. This location offers a scenic view from the Top and is an instagrammable place to capture beautiful photographs. One thing to remember if you’re going there, carry along water bottle with you, as it’s located at an height and you have to climb numerous large stairs to reach to the top of the fort.

Parra Road, Goa

This is yet another most famous Instagrammable place in Goa. A narrow road, lined up by palm trees on both sides makes this a perfect picturesque road in Goa. This road can also be spotted in various famous Bollywood movie shots. A road trip through these lush coconut trees is a must and you will not be able to resist yourself for stopping by and witnessing nature at its peak beauty. The exquisite lanes of Parra village also lead to the famous Church of St. Anne, you can visit that too.

The Lipsmacking Goan Cuisine

Three things people come to Goa for are its beaches, party, and seafood and I so badly wanted to try Goan cuisines. We went to a restaurant near our apartment, where the live orchestra was going on. Goa is home to some of the most exquisite dishes, of which I vividly remember having the chicken xacuti, which consists of poppy seeds and Kashmiri red chilies. The dish is influenced by Portuguese and has chicken, potatoes, onions, coconut, and chilies. We found out that this is one of the most famous dishes of Goa and one should definitely try it out while holidaying here.

The sorak that we had with the chicken xacuti is yet another most demanded dish in Goa. It is a simple vegetarian curry made out of spices, onions, and tomatoes. This curry is eaten with rice or dry fish.
The smarachi kodi is a dry prawn curry which we had for all seven days that we stayed in Goa and it was just heavenly.
The bebinca is a popular and most loved desert of Goa. It is made out of coconut oil, flour, sugar, and eggs. Made into a layered cake and served with ice cream. I can never forget the taste of this desert ever.

The Churches in Goa

Churches in Goa are visited by people all over the world. The Portuguese rulers have left behind some of the most beautiful, majestic, and enigmatic churches in history which are simply architectural marvels and whose designs are as grand as the culture of Goa.

The is a UNESCO site and by far the most famous church in Goa. It was built in the 16^th century and contains the mortal remains of St. Francis Xaviers. It is also believed that one can find lost things by praying at this church and as difficult as it might be for some to believe, we surprisingly had positive results.
Se Cathedral is another magnificent church in Goa and is the largest of all with immense religious importance.

St. Cajetan church is another beautiful monument in Velha Goa and is a captivating reminder of the Portuguese rule in India.
The blend of Tuscan, Baroque, and Corinthian architecture is what makes the church of St. Francis Asisi a significant monument.

The Culture of Goa

People living in Goa are called Goans, with Goa being a perfect blend of Indian and western cultures. People of several religions can be found here. Goa has been under the western influence for so many years which is why people here are more open-minded and secular and though the size of the state is smaller as compared to other states of India, its culture is as rich as that of any other state. We found fishing as the most popular occupation here along with the cashew, coconut, and jackfruit farming.

Apart from this, of course, tourism is the most sought occupation in Goa for obvious reasons. Besides, we found some categorically stunning jewellery and showpieces for home decor. Goans are fond of performing arts which is why Goff talgadi and Shigmo, Dekhni dance are some of the popular dances of Goa. The infamous Pano Bhaju that we came across in Goa which is a 9-yard saree is what Goa is popular for. The attire for tribals in Goa, which is known as kashti is something we found when we met the tribals in Goa

Conclusion

A place that offers peace and serenity, beaches that soothe your eyes, food that satisfies your soul, churches which display the talent of architects and the culture everything in Goa makes you experience a whole new world. Adventure sports, unique culture, rich history, magnificent architecture, moderate weather, scenic beauty of beaches richly adorned with sunrise and sunsets attract tourists from all over the world. For More Places to Travel in Asia, Read more articles here.

17 Famous Indian Dishes Recipes To Try : Make Cooking As Your Favorite Pass Time!

April 7, 2020 by John Gentry 2 Comments

“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world”- J.R.R Tolkien.

Has not sitting at home been arid, lifeless, and unimaginably monotonous? Have you not, in the past few days thought of just running away, leaving your current life behind? Well, as soothing as that does sound unless you want to be another victim of the virus that has caused serious turmoil across the globe, sitting at home is perhaps the maximum that you can do. While that is good news for some, for the rest, there is actually a lot that can be done while sitting at home. Connecting with yourself, with your hobbies and passion, exercising or cooking are a few things you can easily do while you are at home. Cooking, for instance, although it seems difficult, with the current lockdown, there are actually a few dishes you can learn or cook at home without leaving your house, perhaps with all the stuff available in your house. Now, as parlous as some men entering the kitchen might be, it is definitely worth a try instead of snivelling about the monotony.

1. Try Mint Cucumber Raita

If you have never tried a hand at cooking and are also worried about another tragedy happening at home, the mint cucumber raita might just be the dish for you.
All you have to do is make a Raita using mint, cucumber, and yogurt. This dish is found with every Indian meal and is quite refreshing for those hot summer days.

2. How about preparing Dal Palak’s Shorba/ lentil and Spinach soup?

Cooking this soup should not take you more than forty-five minutes. It has to be prepared with spinach and lentils and can be eaten with bread.
Easy to cook, this dish could be really something you want to cook at home.

3. Overcome your chicken cravings with delicious Chicken Tikka Masala

If there is a chicken shop near you, or somewhere you get packed chicken, chicken tikka masala is perhaps another delicious dish one should definitely try at least once in their lifetime.
Getting yogurt, salt, and the spices in one bowl and whisking them together would be step one until they have blended together properly.
Then put the chicken pieces with the mixture and mix it until it is well-coated. Refrigerating it for one hour should be enough. Later pre-heat the broiler set on oven rack in top position and broil the chicken on the prepared rack until the top turns brown, flip and repeat.
When the sauce along with this is prepared, dip the chicken pieces into this sauce and enjoy!

4. Plain basmati rice, Fried rice, Pulav or Biryani as your lockdown to-do list

The basmati rice is the most popular Indian dish which is also easy to cook. At this time of a lockdown, essential products such as rice are widely available.
Basmati is fragrant and nutty-tasting rice which is grown in the Himalayas. When cooked, it becomes light and fluffy and the fragrance while eating is just splendid. This incredible dish can be eaten with curry too.
Taking it one step further, you can also try your culinary skills on Fried rice, Pulav, and Biryani, which are other delicious versions of the plain basmati rice. All you need is your favorite chopped veggies or chicken pieces to prepare these lip-smacking rice dishes.

5. Nothing can be better than a Homemade Naan during this lockdown

Sitting on your couch, wondering when the lockdown would be lifted, the foodies in there might be missing food from their regular restaurant which has been shut now. Perhaps a few dishes such as the Naan can be made at home.
The Indian Naan is popular for its soft nature and is traditionally made in tandoor.
All you need is flour, yeast sugar, olive oil, anise seeds, yogurt, and salt. Mix them well to turn into dough.
Knead it a few times and sprinkle some flour on it. Divide the dough into pieces, flatten up each piece and place it on a hot and dry skillet until the surface is full of air bubbles and black spots. Flip and repeat.

6. Easy to prepare Aloo Tikki without having to go out

Aaloo tikki can be thought of as delicious Indian potato fritters. It is made out of potatoes and several Indian spices formed into patties and then fried in oil.
Aaloo tikki can be easily found on streets and food markets, only they’ve been shut down now. So a dish such as Aaloo tikki is one of the best and easiest dishes to be learned at home during a lockdown.

7. When you have plenty of potatoes around you, why not try Samosas!

Samosas live in the heart of almost every Indian. The dish is so popular that one can find stalls of samosa vendors on every nook and corner of Indian streets.
These are appetizers made with flaky pastry enveloping potato pieces and vegetables; peas specifically and are folded into triangles, fried and served with chutneys.

8. For all the boring evenings of these days, Pakora bhaji can be a magic

This is another symbolic dish popular among other Indian dishes.

Vegetables are battered and deep-fried.
Onion is the simple but magic ingredient in this specific dish and is enjoyed with chutney.

There is nothing as delightful and satisfyingly soul-enriching as having pakora bhajis with chutney, sitting at home, on a rainy day. It would work best for these lockdown days as well!

9. Chana Dal; a superfood worth giving a try

You can prepare a chana dal for lunch or even dinner. It basically consists of split chickpeas stewed with spices like turmeric.
Dal also refers to similar other legumes such as peas, kidney beans, and lentils.

10. Aloo Gobi; make it how you like it

Perhaps potatoes are extensively available as essential items during a lockdown and can be therefore put to use in numerous ways. Cooking Aaloo gobi being one such way.

Made with potatoes and cauliflower that are cooked in garlic, turmeric, and ginger and other spices.
Since it isn’t served as a stew or in a sauce, aloo gobi is a bit spicier and drier and tastes best with raita and chapatti.

11. Apple Chutney; eat it the way you like- simple, easy, and quick

The main ingredients used in this scrumptious dish are apple, spices, vinegar, and sweetener.
Chutney is a traditional Indian recipe made usually with veggies, coconuts, spices, nuts, and herbs.

Chutneys have a miscellaneous nature as every part of India serves its own special and specific type of chutney.

12. Chole; the only dish that can be paired with a number of others

Chole is one of the most popular dishes of India, served at almost all Indian restaurants. But why not bring a restaurant to your home. Cooking chole is easy as well as less tiring and kids tend to love the dish.
Chickpeas are cooked in delicious and spicy gravy and served with either bhatura, kulcha, rice, naan, and the list is endless.
When this Chole is served with a bhatura, it tastes incredible. Chola bhatura is served at many dhabas and almost every restaurant. So why not turn your home into a dhaba this time for your family!

13. Naankhatai; the perfect all-time snack to munch on

The crispiness, light look, and cookie-like features make Naankhatai extremely popular in India.
Nankhatais are made with flour, ghee, cardamom powder, and sugar. These are traditional Indian shortbread cookies, made with all-purpose flour, sugar, ghee, and semolina as well

These cookies are famous because they are prepared at home only. So nankhatai can be placed somewhere on your “to-do list”.

14. Jalebi; the everyone’s favorite

Jalebis can be prepared within the half-hour. Jalebi is the most popular dessert in India.
Jalebis are crispy, juicy and delicious and are served almost at every Indian wedding. Although attending a wedding to eat jalebis today seems like building a castle in the air, preparing Jalebis at home is not.
All you need is flour, turmeric, soda, sugar lemon juice and cardamom powder, ghee and so on and though numerous ingredients are required, preparing this dish will not take more than 230 minutes.

15. Pav bhaji; certainly, the best thing to make with all that you have

Pav bhaji is a typical Indian dish with the perfect and delicious blend of mixed veggies cooked along with butter and spices which is served along with soft butter-tasted buns.
Pav is a traditional Indian bread and bhaji is mashed vegetables cooked with spice powder. Cooking pav bhaji is quite easy during a time such as a lockdown.

16. Shrikhand; let not the lockdown lock up your sweet tooth

Shrikhand is yet another exotic dish of Indian origin. This is a sweet dish made using hung curd and powdered sugar and is specially eaten with puri.
Three basic and most important ingredients are necessary for preparing shrikhand.

Powdered sugar 2. Fresh plain yogurt 3. Any flavoring of your choice.

Shrikhand, therefore, can be prepared along with puris. This actually becomes a treat, especially during summer.

17. Idli sambar; when just dal is all that you have, make something exotic

This dish is a popular south Indian breakfast and is very healthy too.
Basic veggies used in this dish are carrots, beans and shallots, and toor dal.
All you need to do is cooking the dal along with veggies and sambar powder in it. This should not take more than thirty-five minutes.
For idlis, you need fermented rice and lentil batter, which is steam-cooked on an idli stand

This dish is already popularly eaten during lunch and can be cooked at home with easy steps and minimum time.

If you enjoyed this post visit our main page at https://ExploreTraveler.com for more of our exciting content.

Conclusion

With what has been going around us and the precarious lockdown that has been established, there seems to be one good result of it, perhaps an opportunity for us to consider our lives and our health. So it is good to start with healthy cooking!

If you looking for any another food check out our food travel guide. And, one thing is for sure, you don’t always have to go out to enjoy your favorite dish! Home it is; these days!

P.S: Do wash your hands before preparing any of these dishes.

Asia

Cebu Top Tourist Attractions: In the New Normal

1. Check for the latest travel restrictions in your place of destination:

2. Complete all needed documents:

3. Don’t forget to include sanitizers in your backpack:

4. Always wear protective gear and maintain social distancing:

5. Do not travel when you are feeling off:

Must-Visit Historical Tourist Destinations

1. Mactan Shrine:

2. Simala Shrine:

3. Taoist Temple:

4. Sinulog Festival:

Must-Visit Scuba Diving Sites

1. Pescador Island:

2. Mactan Island:

3. Malapascua Island:

4. Swimming with Whale Shark in Oslob:

5. Kawasan Falls:

Attractions at Cebu Transcentral Highway (Mountain Tour)

1. Temple of Leah:

Conclusion:

Tuklasin ang Misteryo ng Chocolate Hills sa Bohol, Philippines

Chocolate Hills Bohol Philippines

Ang Pilipinas Bilang Isang Holiday Spot

Ang Chocolate Hills sa Bohol Bilang Isang Destinasyon

Tungkol sa Chocolate Hills

Chocolate Hills Bilang Perpektong Shooting Site

Ang mga Lutuing Popular sa Chocolate Hills

Mga Alamat na Bumabalot sa Chocolate Hills

Batay sa Siyentipikong Pagsasaliksik

Pinakamagandang panahon para bumisita sa Chocolate Hills

Mga Dapat Gawin sa may Chocolate Hills

Mahilig mamasyal

Manunulat

Ang Chocolate Hills – Isang Natatanging Lugar para sa Honeymoon

Mga Kailangang dalhin bago bumisita sa Chocolate Hills:

Konklusyon

The Philippines As An Ideal Holiday Spot

Chocolate Hills in Bohol As Your Destination

About Chocolate Hills

Chocolate Hills as a perfect shooting site

Cuisines popular around the Chocolate Hills

Myths surrounding the Chocolate Hills

A Scientific Glance

Best time to visit the Chocolate Hills

Viewing deck of the Chocolate Hills complex

Sagbayan Peak

Things to do at the Chocolate Hills

Explore Chocolate Hills Adventure Park

Ride The Action-packed Chocolate Hills ATV rentals

The Chocolate Hills are a must-visit for-

The Wanderlust

The Writers

For the Adventurous Trekkers

The Chocolate Hills- A Unique Place for Honeymoon

Things to prepare for, before going to the Chocolate Hills:

Conclusion

Mount Nebo Adventure

As Far As The Eye Can See

The Great Rock On Mount Nebo

Brazen Serpent Monument

The Ancient Baptistery

Theotokos Chapel

The Ancient Monastery

Caves on Mount Nebo

The Tepe Sialk Ziggurat Of The

Siyalk Culture

Traditional Nipa Huts in the Philippines

How to build your own Nipa Hut

Paano bumuo ng iyong sariling Nipa Hut

Philippines Collection

Transportation in Goa

The Beaches in Goa

Water Sports in Goa

Nightlife in Goa

Chopara Fort, Goa

Parra Road, Goa

The Lipsmacking Goan Cuisine

The Churches in Goa

The Culture of Goa