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Cebu Top na Atraksyon: Sa Panahon ng “New Normal”

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Cebu Top 8 na Atraksyon
Cebu, Philippines

Cebu Top na Atraksyon

Cebu Top 8 na Atraksyon – Sa nakaraang taon, ang COVID-19 na pandemya ay tumama sa buong mundo pati narin sa Pilipinas at ang paglalakbay ay isa sa mga masyadong naapektuhan at linimitahan.  Para sa isang mahilig maglakbay, ang pandemyang ito ay marahil nakapag bigay ng pagkayamot dahil sa hindi natuloy na mga planong paglalakbay.  Pero yun ay sa nakaraang taon, ngayon ang mundo ay unti-unti nang bumabangon at umangkop sa bagong paraan na tinawag na “New Normal” o bagong normal.

Anu ba ang ibig sabihin ng New Normal? Ang terminolohiyang ito ay naging pamilyar at malawakang ginagamit sa mga social media, sa internet, telebisyon, mga establisiyemento, at halos lahat sa buong mundo noong nagsimula ang lahat na bumangon sa epekto ng COVID-19 na pandemya.  Ang terminong ito ay nangangahulugan lamang sa bagong pamumuhay, bagong paraan ng pagtatrabaho o pagpasok sa eskwela, bagong paraan sa paggawa ng ating pang araw-araw na gawain, at bagong paraan ng paglalakbay kung saan kinukonsidera ang mga pag-iingat upang maiwasan ang pagkalat ng COVID-19.

Sa Pilipinas, ang gobyerno ay muling binuksan ang turismo sa mga lokal at banyagang manlalakbay, pero importante na tiyakin muna na ang paglalakbay ay pinahihintulutan sa inyong destinasyon dahil mayroon paring mga lugar sa Pilipinas na posibleng hindi pa pinahihintulutan ang mga turista.  Dahil ang mga kailangang dokumento o requirements sa paglalakbay ay posibleng mag iba, alamin ang mga opisyal na pinakabagong patakaran o alituntunin sa mga restriksyon at mga kinakailangan na posibleng makaapekto sa inyong paglalakbay.

Pangkalahatang Alituntunin sa Paglalakbay sa Panahon ng New Normal

1. Alamin ang pinakabagong restriksyon sa mga manlalakbay sa lugar na inyong pupuntahan

Bumisita sa mga opisyal na web page at website katulad na lamang ng sa Department of Tourism, Department of Foreign Affairs, o ang mga local na website ng probinsya o munisipyong inyong pupuntahan para makakuha ng tama at opisyal na impormasyon.  Hindi mo gugustuhing mag book ng inyong ticket at sa bandang huli ay inyong kanselahin.

2. Kompletuhin ang lahat ng kinakailangang dokumento

Para sa mga turista, dokumento katulad ng travel o tourist pass, medical certificate o clearance, itinerary ng paglalakbay, round trip ticket, at kompirmasyon ng hotel na tutuluyan ay posibleng kailanganin.  Tiyaking dala at kompleto ang mga kailangang dokumento para sa inyong paglalakbay upang maiwasan ang komplikasyon sa paglalakbay.

3. Huwag kalimutang magdala ng sanitizer sa inyong backpack

Sa halos lahat ng pampublikong lugar ngayong may pandemya, ay may mga hand sanitizers na makikita dahil ito ay mandato ng gobyerno bilang pag-iwas sa pagkalat ng mga mikrobyo, pero tiyakin lamang na magdala upang magamit mo kung kinakailangan.  Ugaliing maghugas ng inyong kamay kapag ikaw ay nakakahawak ng bagay na posibleng hawakan din ng ibang tao gaya ng door knob at barandilya.

4. Parating magsuot ng prokteksyon laban sa COVID-19 at panatilihing dumistansya lalo na maraming tao

Ang pasusuot ng face shield at face mask sa mga pambublikong lugar ay kautusang batas sa Pilipinas, ang dalawang ito ay kinakailangan din sa pagpunta sa Cebu.  Posibleng hindi ka papasukin sa mga establisiyemento kung wala kang suot na face shield at mask.  Medical grade o cotton o telang mask ang pweding suotin maliban sa mask na may valve.

5. Huwag mag lakbay kung hindi maganda ang pakiramdam

Kung ikaw ay nakakaranas ng mga sintomas na parang trangkaso, huwag munang mag lakbay, kahit na book na ang inyong ticket.

Mactan Philippines

Mga Destinasyon sa Cebu sa Panahon ng New Normal

Ang Cebu ay grupo ng mga isla na matatagpuan sa gitnang bahagi ng Pilipinas.  Ito ay binubuo ng pangunahing isla at napapaligiran ng 167 na magaganda at natural na mga isla at maliliit na isla.  Ang Cebu City ay pangalawang metropolitan na lungsod sa Pilipinas, ang pinakamatanda at ang unang kabisera ng Pilipinas. 

Dahil sa heolohikal nitong lokasyon, ang Cebu ay isa sa mga lugar kung saan nagaganap ang mga pangangalakal bago pa dumating ang mga Espanyol.  Ito rin ang nagsisilbing gateway sa napakaraming tourist destination sa Pilipinas katulad ng Bohol kung saan makikita ang pamosong Chocolate Hills, Boracay Island, Puerto Princesa at marami pang iba.

Mayamang kultura, nakakaenganyong kasaysayan, maganda at kamangha-manghang dagat at scuba diving sites, mayamang kabundukan, natatanging mga luto, at mababait na mga tao ay ang “Cebu’s Best” para sa mga manlalakbay.

Must-Visit na mga Makasaysayang Destinasyon

Kung ikaw ay mahilig sa mga makasaysayan, kultural, o relihiyosong pamamasyal, and Cebu ay mayaman sa mga atraksiyong nag bibigay buhay sa kasaysayan nito, at nagpapakita sa malawak at makulay nitong kultura at relihiyon.

1. Mactan Shrine

Ang Mactan Shrine ay makikita sa Lapu-lapu City kung saan nandito rin ang Mactan Airport.  Ang shrine ay ang pinaniniwalaang lokasyon kung saan ang “Battle of Mactan” o “Kadaugan sa Mactan” ay naganap.  Sa makasaysayang digmaang ito, si Lapu-Lapu, kung saan ang lugar ipinangalan, isa sa mga lider sa lugar at tinatayang 1,500 na taga doon sa lugar ay nakipag digmaan laban sa mga sundalo na pinangungunahan ng isang Portuguese na manlalakbay na si Ferdinand Magellan, na pumunta sa Cebu at isla ng Mactan noong Abril 1521 para ipakilala at dalhin ang Katolisismo sa lugar.  Si Lapu-Lapu at ang kanyang mga kasama na hindi sumang-ayon dito ay nagwagi sa labananng ito at ang kolonisasyon ay napigilan sa loob ng 44 na taon.  Ang shrine ay may dalawang monumento, ang monumento ni Lapu-Lapu upang gunitain at bigyang parangal si Datu Lapu-Lapu sa kanyang katapangan na ipaglaban ang kanyang sinasakupan, at monumento ni Ferdinand Magellan sa pagdadala at pagpapakilala sa Katolisismo sa Pilipinas at ang Santo Nino (Batang Hesus) sa Cebu. 

2. Simala Shrine

Matatagpuan sa mataas na bahagi sa Lindongon, Simala, Sibonga,Cebu, ang Simala Shrine ay isa talagang simbahan at pamoso sa mga lokal at mga turista.  Ang simbahang ito ay binibisita ng maraming tao lalong lalo na sa Holy Week at mga aktibidad para ipagdiwang ang Birheng si Maria.  Katulad ng ibang simbahan at monasteryo sa Pilipinas, ang shrine ay isinara pansamantala sa publiko noong kasagsagan ng pandemya pero binuksan din noong Disyembre 2020.  Dahil sa karingalan at mala-kastilyong awra nito, kahit ang mga taong hindi masyadong relihiyoso ay hindi mapipigilang ito ay bisitahin.  Ang pambihira nitong istruktura, payapang atmospera, at nakakalulang tanawin ay ilan lamang sa mga rason kung bakit dapat itong ma-experience at mabisita ng mga manglalakbay. Kung ikaw ay pupunta sa shrine, bukod sa pagsusuot ng face shield at face mask at pagoobserba ng distansiya sa mga tao, ang mga bumibisita ay pinaaalalahanang panatilihin ang katahimikan sa sagradong lugar.

3. Taoist Temple

Ang Cebu Taoist Temple ay makikita sa subdibisyon ng Beverly Hills sa Lahug, Cebu City, at itinatyo noong 1972.  Ang lokasyon nito ay nasa mataas na bahagi ng siyudad na tinatayang na 360 talampakan at maaari lamang mapuntahan gamit ang mga pribadong sasakyan.  Ang lugar ay binuksan para sa mga mananampalataya at hindi mananampalataya.  Ang bukana papunta sa templo ay replika ng “Great Wall of china” at ito ay kamangha-mangha.  Kinakailangan umakyat sa tinatayang 120 na baiting upang maabot ang pangunahing templo kung saan makikita mula sa itaas ang lungsod at ang mayabong na kabundukan ng Cebu. Nakakarelaks at “worth it” ang pakiramdam habang nararanasan ang preskong hangin at pinagmamasdan ang kaayang-ayang arkitektural na desenyo ng lugar.

4. Sinulog Festival

Dinaraos tuwing ikatlong lingo sa buwan ng Enero upang ipagdiwang at sambahin ang Santo Nino (Baby Jesus), ang relehiyosong tradisyong ito ay isa sa mga kakaiba, makulay, buhay na buhay, at pinaka malaking piyesta sa Cebu.  Ang gawaing ito ay linalahukan ng mga tao mula sa iba’t-ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas. Sa piyestang ito makikita ang makukulay na sayaw sa kalye gamit ang tambol at trumpeta ng mga kalahok na nagmula pa sa iba’t-ibang rehiyon ng Pilipinas. Daang maliliit na tindahan para sa face tattoo at mga pasalubong at memorabilia ang makikita sa daan.

Ngunit nitong 2021 naantala ang Sinulog Festival dahil sa COVID-19 pandemic. Tayo ay umaasa at nananalangin na masaksihang muli ang pagdiriwang na ito sa susunod na taon.

Mga Dapat Bisitahin na Scuba Diving Sites

Ang Pilipinas ay naparangalan bilang Best Overseas Diving Area (overseas category) sa Marine Diving Awards 2020 na naganap sa Tokyo. Nakatanggap din ng nominasyon ang Pilipinas bilang Asia’s Leading Dive Destination at World’s Leading Dive Destination sa 27th World Travel Awards. Ang Cebu ay isa sa mga lugar sa Pilipinas na kilala dahil sa kamangha-mangha at yamang natural sa karagatan. Ang scuba diving sa Cebu ay magbibigay ng napakagandang karanasan sa mga ocean explorers at scuba diving fanatics.

Bagaman ang scuba diving ay isa sa mga aktibidad na pinaghigpitan sa kasagsagan ng COVID-19 pandemic, noong Oktobre 2020, kinilala itong non-contact sport o aktibidad at kalauna’y pinayagan ang scuba diving alinsunod sa mga bagong patakaran:

  1. Ang scuba diving sa mga lugar na naka GCQ (General Community Quarantine) at MGCQ (Modified General Community Quarantine) ay pinapayagang magbukas. Ngunit dahil maari itong magbago depende sa lugar, ugaliing suriin ang mga pinagbabawal ng lokal na pamahalaan kung nasaan ang diving site. 
  2. Magdala ng sariling diving gears at mga kagamitan. Bawal ang panghihiram ng gamit.
  3. Magdala at gumamit ng mga hand sanitizers o disinfectants kung kinakailangan.
  4. Bawal ang pag dura para ma defog ang inyong gears. Gumamit ng sabon at shampoo bilang defogger.
  5. Magsuot ng face shield at mask kung nakikipag-usap sa ibang tao.
Cebu Diving

1. Pescador Island

Ang “Pescador Experience” ay isa sa pinaguusapan ng maraming divers na naka pasyal sa Pescador. Ito ay nakapupukaw at nakakaakit na karanasan na karapat-dapat subukan sa Cebu. Ang isla na isang marine park ay makikita sa lalawigan ng Moalboal sa Cebu at kinikilala bilang hiyas ng Moalboal. Tanyag ang islang ito dahil sa sardine run kung saan libo-libong sardinas na parang buhawi ang nakakamanghang pagmasdan. Makikita din dito ang iba’t-ibang uri ng marine life tulad ng scorpionfish, stonefish, snappers, barracuda, frogfish, at iba pa. Pangkaraniwang makikita ang mga pagong sa islang ito. Sa kanlurang bahagi ng isla makikita ang “Pescador Cathedral”, isang yungib na nagsisimula sa 18 metro hangang 40+ metro. Nakakalito lang minsan ang agos ng dagat pero siguradong magkakaroon ka ng hindi makakalimutang karanasan sa inyong buhay.

2. Mactan Island

Ang islang ito ay isa sa mga pamosong diving spots hindi lamang sa Cebu kundi sa buong Pilipinas.  Maraming diving centers dito ang pinahintulutan nang magbukas sa kasagsagan ng pandemya, pero mas magandang mag book muna bago pumunta dito.  Ang islang ito ay madaling puntahan dahil nandito rin ang internasyunal na airport ng Cebu, kaya naman kung mayroon ka lamang limitadong oras sa inyong pag bisita sa cebu pero gusto mong maranasan at makita ang yamang dagat dito, ang islang ito ay hindi ka bibiguin.

Ang isla ng Mactan at ang mga nakapalibot ditong maliliit na isla ay mayroong iba’t iba, makukulay, at mayamang likas ng dagat.  Makakakita dito ng sea snakes, frogfish, barracuda, leaf fish, mandarin fish, groupers, scorpion fish, blue-ribbon eels, nudibranchs, rainbow runners, pufferfish, clownfish, sweet lips, moray eels, drummers, harlequin fish, butterfly fish, pipefish at marami pang iba.  Sa mas malaking sanktuaryo, marami ang mackerel at jacks, turtles, stingrays, at minsan big eye trevallies.  Ang ibang dive spots ay tahanan ng mga thresher sharks at hammerhead sharks.

Ang mga diving sites gaya ng sa Tambuli, Agus, Marigondon Cave, Talima Marine Sanctuary ay mapupunahan din mula sa Mactan Island.

Island

Ang Malapascua ay maliit na isla na may habang 2.5 kilometro at lawak na isang kilometro.  Meron itong white sand at tahanan ng maliit na komunidad.  Matatagpuan sa pinakadulo ng hilagang bahagi ng Cebu, kelangang bumiyahe ng apat na oras papuntang Daanbantayan at sumakay ng bangka ng mahigit kumulang limang minuto papunta sa isla.

Ang islang ito ay napaka popular na diving spot sa Cebu at maganda para sa mga baguhang divers.  Magbibigay ito ng malawak at nakakapukaw na karansan para sa mga baguhan dahil ang dive dito ay madaling gawin pero magbibigay inspirasyon para muling sumusid.  Ang Malapascua ay pamoso sa mga thresher shark dives sa Monad Shoal, dito ay pweding lumangoy kasama ang mga thresher sharks hanggang kelan mo gusto at marami pang diving experience kung saan makikita ang hindi pa nagagalaw na mga coral gardens, mga bahura, pagdidive sa gabi, wall dives at maraming pang iba.

Ang Cebu ay tunay ngang mayaman ang karagatan at maraming dving spots. Pwede ring bisitahin ang Olango group of islands na malapit lang sa Mactan Island, Nalusuan Island at ang Hilutungan Islang na hindi dapat palampasin sa island hopping at pag iisnorkel. Ang Catancillo Island kung saan makikita ang kakaibang spot na tinatawag na Rendez-Vous, ay isang napakagandang pader papuntang ilalim na may 180 feet patungo sa ibat-ibang uri ng likas na yaman sa ilalim ng dagat.

3. Lumangoy kasama ang mga Whale Shark sa Oslob

Ang whale watching sa oslob ay sinuspende ng apat na buwan sa kasagsagan ng pandemya pero ito’y muling binuksan noong Agosto 2020.

Itong nakakamangha at exciting na paglangoy kasama ang mga whale shark ay mararanasan sa Oslob.  Dito, meron kang oportunidad na pumili kung ikaw ay magiisnorkel at makita ng malapitan ang mga whale shark o sila’y panourin mula sa bangka habang sila ay lumalangoy at pinapakain ng mga bangkero.

Talaga namang nakakaexcite na lumangoy kasama ang mga dambuhalang hayop na ito pero importante na sumunod sa mga alituntunin upang siguraduhin na ligtas ka at ang mga whale sharks.

4. Kawasan Falls

Ang talon ng Kawasan ay matatagpuan sa Badian at malapit lamang sa Moalboal.  Ang natural na talong ito ay may tatlong bahagi ng klaro at kulay turkesang tubig mula sa bukal sa kabundukan ng Mantalongon. Ang unang bahagi ng talon ang pinakamalaki at ang bahagi na mas marami ang bumibisita, kelangang umakyat ng humigit kumulang 15 minuto upang mapuntahan ang pangalawang bahagi at umakyat pa upang mapuntahan naman ang ikatlong bahagi.  Ang pagcacanyoneering ay ang pinakapopular sa lugar na ito.  Nagsisimula ito sa ilog ng Canlaob papuntang ibaba sa talon ng Kawasan.

Mga atraksyon sa Cebu Transcentral Highway (Mountain Tour)

Ang Trancentral Highway ng Cebu ay isa sa pinaka magandang ginawa o binago sa isla na may relasyon sa transportasyon. Ang 33 kilometrong highway na ito ay parang ahas sa gitna ng mayabong, maberding kabundukan na nagsisimula sa silangang bahagi ng lalawigan ng Cebu patungo sa kanluran sa Balamban.  Ang daang ito ay pamoso sa mga nagbibike o motorcycle riders dahil sa parang walang katapusang paliko-likong daan, malamig na temperature, at ang natural na berding kapaligiran.  Ang lugar na ito ay maikokompara sa famosong Kennon Road sa Baguio.

Camping sites, strawberry garden, flower gardens gaya ng Sirao Flower Garden, malawak na taniman ng gulay, any makikita dito at bukas sa publiko.  Mountain adventures gaya ng pag zizipline, sky biking, trekking o paghihike, at pagsakay ng kabayo ay mararanasan din dito.

1. Temple of Leah

Isa sa mga bagong atraksyon sa may Cebu Trancentral Highway na unti-unting nagiging pamoso sa mga local at dayuhang bisita ay ang Temple of Leah an tinaguriang “Taj Mahal” ng Cebu.  Ang estrukturang ito wa ginawa noong 2021 sa mataas na bahagi ng Busay bilang ekresyon ng pagmamahal ng isang mayamang businessman sa Cebu sa kanyang yumaong asawa na nagngangalang Leah. Makikita ang buong lalawigan ng Cebu mula sa Greco-Roman style na estrakturang ito.

 

Konklusyon

Ang turismo kahit ito ay biglang hindi pinahintulutan sa Cebu dahil sa Covid-19 na pandemya, ang magagandang tanawin at nakakamanghang tourist spots dito ay muling binuksan para sa mga manlalakbay upang makita at maranasan.  Siguraduhin lamang na icheck ang mga pinakabagong alituntunin at mga kinakailangan sa paglalakbay ng inyong pupuntahang lugar bago kayo maglakbay.

Ang Cebu ay tunay ngang isa sa mga lugar sa Pilipinas na hindi dapat palampasin ng isang manlalakbay dahil siguradong ito ay inyong pagsisihan .  Ang Cebu ay mayaman, buhay na buhay at kakaibang isla.  Mula sa nakakainteres at pamosong historical sites, sikat sa buong mundong karagatan, scuba diving experience, hanggang sa nakaka excite na adventure sa natural nitong kabundukan at marami pang iba.

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Cebu Top Tourist Attractions : In the New Normal

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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

  • 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:

  1. 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.
  2. Bring your own diving gear and equipment box. Strictly no borrowing.
  3. Bring and apply liberally hand disinfectants throughout the day whenever necessary.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

Copyright @2021 Cebu Top Tourist Attractions: In the New Normal

 

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Wonderful Adventures In The Philippines

Scuba Diving In The Waters Of The Philippine Sea / Pag-sisid sa Karagatan ng Pilipinas

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Scuba Diving The Alluring Waters Of The Philippine Sea

Everywhere the weather is perfect for a water adventure. The Philippine Sea is magnificent with coral reefs full of every kind of fish you can think of. The water is crystal clear and you can see forever. It is also the deepest shade of blue.  Are you ready to dive, yet?

Pag-sisid Sa Ilalim Ng Kaakit-akit Na Karagatan ng Pilipinas

Sa lahat ng dako ang panahon ay perpekto para sa isang adventure sa tubig. Ang Dagat ng Pilipinas ay kahanga-hanga sa mga coral reef na puno ng lahat ng uri ng isda na maaari mong maisip. Ang tubig ay mala-kristal at makikita mo ang magpakailanman. Ito rin ang pinakamalalim na lilim ng asul. Handa ka na bang sumisid, pa?

So much to see at the bottom of the Philippine Sea!

How can you see it all? Everywhere you look is the beginning of a new adventure.

Madaming makikita sa ilalim ng karagatan ng Pilipinas!

Pano mo makikita ang lahat? Kahit saan man ng daki ka tumingin ay makakakita ka na panibagong adventure.

Have you ever seen a blue starfish?

The waters surrounding the Island of Cebu is known for it’s beautiful Blue Star Fish.  Seeing a Blue Star Fish is just a dream for many divers. For those who dive around Cebu Island, it is an experience that may be repeated many time.

Nakakita kana ba ng kulay asul na bituing-dagat?

Ang tubig na nakapalibot sa isla ng Cebu ay kilala sa pagkakaroon ng magandang asul na bituing-dagat. Ang makita ang asul na bituing-dagat ay isang pangarap para sa maraming maninisid. Para sa mga sumisisid sa isla ng Cebu, ito ay isang karanasan na maaring ulit-ulitin ng maraming beses.

The Clown Fish Was Made Popular In The Movie, “Finding Nemo.”

Ang Clown Fish Ay Mas Naging Kilala Dahil sa Palabas Na ” Finding Nemo “

The Amazing Clown Fish Is Beautiful.

Every dive is unique, and if you want to really discover the action beneath the water, then keep diving. No two dives are the same. Join us in the amazing Philippine Sea and lets discover the Sea together!

Ang Kahanga-hangang Clown Fish Ay Maganda.

Ang bawat pag-sisid ay natatangi at naiiba, kung gusto mong madiskubre ang nagaganap sa ilalim na karagatan, panatilihin ang palagiang pag-sisid. Walang dalawang napaparehong pagsisid. Samahan kami sa kahanga-hangang pagtuklas sa karagatan ng Pilipinas!

 

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Bakasyon at Scuba Diving sa Coral Reefs ng Pilipinas

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Ang Coral Reef ng Pilipinas ay tahanan ng ilan sa mga pinaka magandang kapaligiran sa dagat sa mundo. Ang Pilipinas ay isang bahagi ng “coral triangle”. Ang tatsulok na ito ay tahanan ng libu-libong klase ng isda at iba pang mga hayop sa dagat. Ang mga reef ng tropiko ay ilan sa mga pinaka masagana sa lahat ng mga kapaligiran sa dagat sa lupa.

Ang mga coral reef na ito ay nagbibigay ng proteksyon para sa libu-libong klase na tinatawag ang tubig na kanilang tahanan. Ang lugar na ito ay may higit na bilang ng ibat-ibang uri ng isda at coral kaysa sa anumang iba pang mga pang-dagat na kapaligiran sa lupa. Ang mga kamangha-manghang mga makukulay na reef ay isang paraiso para sa pangarap ang mmag-snorkel.

Ang mangingisda ng Pilipinas ay nagbibigay ng maraming supply ng sariwang isda araw-araw para sa maraming mga restawran at mga merkado ibat-bang lugar. Isa sa mga kamangha-manghang karanasan ay ang mag-lakad-lakad sa isang restaurant at pipiliin ang iyong nais na buong isda at nakikita ito kong panu ihanda. Ngayon ay sariwa na!

Ang Coral Reef  sa Pilipinas ay tahanan din sa ilan sa pinakamalaking isda, at mga hayop sa dagat, kabilang ang Whale Shark, at ang kahanga-hangang pawikan sa dagat. Bukod sa mga malalaking isda, mayroong libu-libong iba pang mga klase ng buhay sa dagat sa mga maiinit na tropikal na tubig. Ang mga reef ay binubuo ng daan-daang mga klase ng coral at ang mga kulay ay kamangha-manghang.

Bawat taon libu-libong mga turista ang nagtitipon sa lugar upang tangkilikin ang scuba diving, snorkeling, sa mga bangka na maysalamin sa ilalim. Ang ilan sa mga pinakamahusay na lugar ng diving spots ay nakakalibutan sa mga kahanga-hangang isla. Ang mga taong walang mga kasanayan sa diving ay maaaring tamasahin ang may salamin sa ilalim na bangka na nag-aalok ng mga paglilibot araw-araw.

Ang Coral Reef sa Pilipinas ay nagbibigay ng maraming mga pagkakataon para sa mga turista upang tamasahin ang mga makulay at pinong reef. Tunay na ito ang Marine Amazon ng mundo. Para sa karagdagang impormasyon sa Coral Reefs ng Pilipinas at ang pinakamahusay na lugar ng diving, tingnan ang aming web site kung saan makakahanap ka ng mga artikulo sa scuba diving at snorkeling. Makikita mo rin ang isang link sa Cebu site na nagbibigay ng listahan ng mga motel at diving spot sa isla ng Cebu at ilan sa iba pang maliliit na isla malapit sa. Hayaan na ito ang taon na sumali ka sa amin sa Amazon sa mundo ng dagat.

Isang Adventure ang naghihintay sayo, sa Pilipinas.

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Walang Kapantay Na Oras sa Isla ng Cebu

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Walang Kapantay Na Oras sa Isla ng Cebu

Walang kapantay na oras o sandali ay mahalagang sa mga putting buhangin sa tabing-dagat. Ang mga ito ay may kamangha-manghang puti, na para bang ito ay pinaputi pa lalo. Ang buhangin ay pinong, na katulad sa preskong sutla. Hindi na kailangan pang mag suot ng sapin sa paa! Ang buhangin ay makinis at maluho! Ito ay napakaganda sa pakiramdam sa pagitan ng iyong mga daliri sa paa . Maligayang pagdating sa Cebu, kung saan ang mga tabing-dagat ay tulad ng walang hanggang sandali sa paraiso.

Tropikal na gabi, na may kamangha-manghang paglubog ng araw,ang aakit sa iyo dito sa paraiso ng Pilipinas. Ang pagmamahalan ay nasa hangin,habang ang nagmamahalan ay naglalakad at nangangarap magkasama sa tabing-dagat ng Cebu.Kagila-gilalas ang malalim na kulay asul na dagat! Ang asul ay napaka-asul at ang berde ay napaka berde naman. Ito ay isang isla ng mga kamangha-manghang pagkaka-iba. Ang buhay sa Cebu ay tulad ng isang panaginip na natupad. Ang dagat sa Cebu ay maganda, mapayapa at liblib. Ang hangin ay sariwa at malinis. Maligayang pagdating sa walang hanggang sandali sa Paraiso!

Maraming lugar kung saan maaring manatili sa Cebu. Karamihan ay ang mga kwarto na nasa tabi lamang ng dagat na may beranda na kung saan matatanaw ang karagatan. Kung ikaw ay naghahanap para sa pribadong pag-iibigan, ang ganitong beranda ay ang perpektong lugar para sa iyo. Hindi na kailangang umalis sa kwarto, tumawag lamang sa room service at kumain sa beranda. Isang napaka romantikong bakasyon! Oras na para makapag bakasyon! Oras para mangarap! Oras na para lamang sa inyong dalawa! Ito ay oras, para sa walang hanggang sandali!

Ito ay ang perpektong bakasyon. Ito ay oras upang alagaan ang iyong sarili. Ito ay oras para sa malalim na pagpapahinga! Kaya humiga at dumapa at tawagin na ang magmamasahe sayo. Pakiramdaman ang pagkakaiba! Makapagrelax at makapagpahinga! Huminga ng hangin ng karagatan! Tanggalin ang sarili sa mga negosyo sa siyudad! Iwanan na ang lahat! Ito ay iyong oras, sa Isla ng Cebu! Ang mga ito ay, ang iyong walang hanggang sandali!

Pangarap mo bang mag kamping sa ilalim ng mga bituin? Ngayon ay maaari na itong matupad, ang marangyang pag-kamping ay may dumating na sa Cebu. Tangkilikin ang maluhong karanasan sa kamping sa ilalim ng mga bituin sa Pilipinas. Wala ka ng nanaisin pa. Makakatanggap ka pa ng subra. Magpahinga ng may banayad na simoy ng karagatan. Panaginip tungkol sa bukas! Halika at samahan kami sa ilalim ng mga bituin, sa dagat ng Cebu.

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 Septiyembre 8, 2015 sa:

https://exploretraveler.com/timeless-moments-on-cebu-island/

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Journey Toward Pandanon Island

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Journey Toward Pandanon Island Philippines

Journey toward Pandanon Island, a first class adventure that is amazing! Though the island is fantastic, the journey is phenomenal. Imagine the crystal clear waters! Think about how beautiful the blue-green waters are. What can you see? You may even site a pod of whales! What magnificent creatures! The destination is outstanding! The journey to get there is remarkable. The deep blue sky meets this turquoise blue water almost seamlessly. The white sand beaches are alluring as you arrive. Kick off your flip-flops! Feel the silky sand between your toes. The deep green palm branches sway in the breeze. You have arrived in paradise. The journey toward Pandanon Island is over. You have now arrived……welcome to Pandanon Island!

You have made the journey toward Pandanon Island. The journey was thrilling! The adventure was endless! You have arrived on this fabulous beach. Here you can see forever, as you stroll leisurely down the shore. The exceptional beauty of the island is astonishing. How can the sand be that white? What makes it feel like silk? The greens are so green and the blues are so blue. The sunsets are amazing! The colors so deep. The journey toward Pandanon Island has brought us to a remarkable destination. Now that the journey toward Pandanon Island has landed us in such tropical beauty, it is time to explore!

Island hopping is one amazing part of the journey to Pandanon Island. The trip was comfortable and extremely pleasurable. Pandanon Island is located between Cebu and Bohol, This Island paradise is only a little more than an hour away from Mactan Island. If you have chosen to stay at one of the major resorts, it is only a quick side trip. This spectacular Island is one of the top spots to see. It is one amazing part of the beauty of Cebu.

Pandanon Island is the perfect place to go with friends and family. Here you will find a good time. Explore the shallow water reefs. Enjoy island hospitality! Relax with family and friends!  What a spectacular beach! Swimming h some of the best in Cebu. The water is so clear and clean. The crystal clear blue waters beckons. Take time to feed the many fish. Schools of fish hang out, just waiting for a handout.

Enjoy taking a stroll along the sandbar during low tide. Hike around this small island. Explore the shallow reefs. The scenery is amazing. Such a beautiful place to spend time with those you love.  Relax and feast along the white sandy ashore. What an awesome place for dinner. Although Pandanon Island is usually part of the island hopping packages, it is truly worth some extended time. The waters around the island are shallow, providing the perfect place for family fun. Even though the journey toward Pandanon Island is an incredible adventure, prices are modest. There are many small cottages for rent on the beach. It is the perfect place to plan your next family vacation.

All these things makes Pandanon Island the perfect destination for families and small groups on a budget. Bring the whole family! It is time for island exploration!  Grab your passport, and pack your bags. The journey toward Pandanon Island is the perfect adventure for your next family vacation.

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Snorkeling The Visayas In The Philippines

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Snorkeling in the warm emerald waters of the Visayas in the Philippines

Snorkeling The Visayas In The Philippines

Snorkeling the Visayas is ominous. It is exciting! There is nothing like it.  The warm emerald waters of the Visayas beckons to the experienced and the new snorkeler alike.  If the world beneath the sea captivates your interest, then come snorkel the Visayas. The Philippine archipelago is stunning and adventurous. You don’t have to be a diver to enjoy the Visayas. Snorkeling the Visayas is a top priority of many of the resorts.  Most of the dive resorts have snorkel trips as well as diving expeditions.  Whether you choose to snorkel amid the extraordinary marine life or dive the walls, the Visayas will provide the adventure you crave. In these warm emerald green waters you will see Damselfish, Butterflyfish, and Wrasses. There are even Blacktip Reef Sharks to entertain you. These Blacktip Reef Sharks are amazing!  While in the Bohol Strait you can enjoy Dolphin and Whale watching. There is nothing like spotting a whale. These are the big boys of the sea.  Here there are often sightings of the Spinner Dolphins. They are seen so often that it has almost become the norm. What fun awaits in the Visayas. If your passion is the world beneath the sea, you will love the Visayas.

Snorkeling off of Leyte Island in Sogod Bay is fantastic. Here you will find coral reefs that are lush and colorful. You can see Sea Stars that are vibrate and showy. In the midst of the coral gardens are the flamboyant Damselfish. They are so extraordinary and they flaunt their beauty. For those staying at the resort, you may have the opportunity to swim with a whale shark. Snorkeling the visayas has no dull moments. Here you will find living drama!

While snorkeling the Visayas do not forget the reefs surrounding Cabilao Island. If you are passionate for coral gardens, this is the place to be. Here the coral gardens come alive. They dance to the tune of the sea. What fun it is on Cabilao Island. This is a Marine Protected region. There is adventure at every turn.  In this area of the Visayas you may see schools of Purple Anthias as well as brilliant and flashy corals. There is an amazing wall with a steep drop off. Gorgonian Wall has giant Fan Corals with many colorful reef fish. In this area they have many night snorkels. Night snorkels are almost magical. One of the highlights of this area is the octopus which moves like lightning. These amazing coral gardens offer the snorkeler a whole new range of marine wildlife to enjoy. Snorkeling the Visayas is almost magical. Here you can live the drama of the sea.

Snorkeling the Visayas is one of the most unique opportunities in the world. If you explore the reefs around Panglao Island, you might see the famous Philippine Tarsiers. These little primates are only 3-6 inches long. In the world of the primates, they are the smallest. You will enjoy snorkeling the Visayas. It is a dazzling underwater paradise. The more remote the island, the more magical it will be. The Visayan Islands are some of the remotest islands, but the marine life is dazzling.

So what are you waiting for? Make this the year for snorkeling the Visayas. Plan your magical trip today.

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Trisikads In The Philippines

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The Trisikad is a versatile Philippine Motorbike Taxi.

Trisikads In The Philippines

Trisikads, what are they and where did they come from? The word Trisikads is a word from Cebu, which includes many types of cycle rickshaws.  In past times these have been mainly bicycle pedaled. Now fast forward to current time and a small change is taking place. The old Trisikads are still on the road in growing numbers but move over and welcome these small motorbike taxis. They are colorful! They are fun! They are economical to use! They have become part of the answer,  as this island nation is recovering from Typhoon Haiyan or Typhoon Yolanda

Trisikads are a major source of transportation in the Philippines. These small and versatile motorbike taxis are known by many names with-in the country. Some refer to them as Tadyak, pedicab, motors, and still others, potpot. They are cousins to the Rickshaw and the pedicab who are generally human powered. Out of the deep poverty has come a solution that is embraced by both tourists and locals alike. What a fun solution!

It is said that these humble Trisikads were first built in Tondo, Metro Manila or somewhere in the Northern part of the Philippines. It was a local answer to the deep poverty. Many a humble unemployed worker has become a business owner overnight due to these small bicycle and motor taxis. Many others are finding work in the shops that service them. Regardless of where they came from, they are obviously here for the long run. What fun they are to watch, as they maneuver traffic, as only they can. They rarely are bothered by traffic! Traffic jam….what is that? They stop on a dime! They are fun and adventurous. Welcome to the world of the Trisikads!

The original Trisikads were nothing more than a modification of the everyday bicycle. What ingenuity! Out of a bicycle for one, came a taxi to carry three more. Just add another wheel, and a bench for three and a small roof to protect from the rain and sun. The Trisikads are now ready to make money. These common Trisikads are on the road, rain or shine. What an awesome tribute to the ingenuity of the Filipinos. And now they are at it again.

Move over little cousin and let the big boys by! Welcome your cousin the motors, also called Trisikads. Same small carts with a roof, but instead of a peddled bicycle, they used a motor bike. Again we can marvel about the planning and ingenuity of these local business owners. Out of the Philippines once again, has come an answer to a need. These people from the cradle up are taught to use every part of the blessings they have. Just look at all the different products that are made from the coconut. So it is not surprising that they took care of their transportation needs in such an economical way.

The land of the Trisikads has just widened and added a cousin. It is delightful and allows them to go even farther than they could with human power. It also opened doors to some who were unable to pedal all day, but have no trouble using the motor bike. It gave people transportation that had no way to go to work after Typhoon Haiyan. It provided transportation to tourists, as they returned. It opened small repair shops to work on these little taxis, which gave even more people jobs.

So when you are in the Philippines, be sure to use  Trisikads and allow a local, to show off his island. They will save you money, help a struggling economy, feed a family, and be an adventure to tell your children about. Welcome to The Philippines, the land of the Trisikads

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Published in steemit.com@exploretraveler April 2,2017 at:

https://steemit.com/travel/@exploretraveler/trisikads-in-the-philippines

 

 

 

Lechon: National Dish Of The Philippines

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The Lechon, Spanish word meaning suckling pig is the national dish of the Philippines

Lechon: National Dish Of Philippines

Lechon is a famous pork dish that begins with a suckling pig that is roasted over charcoal. Lechon is originated in Spain and spread throughout all the areas where she had former colonial powers. The word lechon comes from the spanish word, lechón, which means suckling pig. Lechon is a favorite food in the Philippines, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Hawaii (where it is called a Kalua pig), and Spanish Latin American countries. It is the national dish of The Philippines and Puerto Rico. Cebu is considered to have the best Lechon on the Islands of The Philippines. It is delicious! It is unique! It is Lechon!

Throughout these areas, Lechon is prepared during the year for special occasions where they roast a suckling pig over a bed of charcoal in a ditch that is covered by sticks , banana leaves ( can also use Ti leaves) and then earth. In Hawaii, the people roasts a Lechon whenever there is a Luau. In rural Hawaii a Lechon is roasted if you have a new baby, get married, graduate from school, get a new job, have an anniversary, etc. Any happy occasion is time for a Luau.  A luau begins with lechon. In other areas this is called a fiesta or party. Anytime is fiesta time!  Let’s celebrate!

The first thing you do is to prepare the Imu or the underground pit oven that is used in most of the Spanish World and Hawaii. The first thing to do is to build a large fire in the pit using about 1/8 cord of Hardwood to roast a Lechon. Next you build the imu where the lechon goes. The secret of the imu is in the rocks. Good volcanic rocks makes a good oven. Try to use the best volcanic and porous rocks that you can find. They do not explode and stay hot for hours. You separate the Imu from the fire pit with the rocks and then line the Imu with rocks and then with the banana leaves. The pig is then placed inside  a cage that is usually made of chicken wire. It is then completely covered with the banana leaves and then banana sticks. then the earth is replaced to cover the pit completely. Now the wait begins!

Your Imu  (Oven) is now ready to be fired up! 2 hours are needed to preheat the imu
plus 8-10 hours cooking time, total of 10-12 hours. Usually it is done the night before and served the next afternoon. After 10-12 hours your Lechon  should be done. It is served with the crispy skin and the blood pudding. You can also get up very early and get your suckling pig ready for a late afternoon fiesta or Luau. This is fiesta time!

Where ever you may travel, Cebu is famous for the best Lechon in the Philippines. While in Cebu, be sure and try Lechon, the National Dish of The Philippines.

http://travelfoodanddrink.com/philippines-national-dish/philippinelechonontable/

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Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary: Philippines

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Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary wetlands in the Philippines

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary is located on Olango Island in The Philippines. How amazing this sanctuary is! What a fun place to visit! Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary has been of International importance since 1994.  It was included on the Ramsar List of Wetlands of international Importance on July 1, 1994.     It is the first wetland to make International importance in the Philippines. This makes it a major destination for Birders.  It truly is a haven for migratory birds. These birds are making their amazing journeys back from their nesting grounds. Migration begins from their breeding home in the far North. Many come from places like Siberia, Northern China, and Japan. When they begin to anticipate the lack of food and the onset of severe weather, they begin their yearly journey. It has become a major re-fueling stop for many on their way to Australia and New Zealand. The flight home is a long flight and they use Olango Island as a welcome stop, to renew strength for the miles yet remaining. It is Bird Heaven! It is a paradise for Migratory Birds.

Olango Island is also the winter home to species who live in colder regions of the world.  Their greatest need is a place to call home during this time of severe weather and scarcity of food. Not all the birds continue their migration, as some prefer to winter in the beautiful and tropical Olango Island. It is their home, away from home.

There are two times during the year that you can see these beautiful migratory birds on Olango Island. The first being from July till November when they make the Southward Migration. Again, in late February until May, they can be seen as they make the Northward Migration. It is then, that these beautiful birds return home to their breeding grounds. This, is an awesome time to book a birding tour.

So which birds are you most likely to see?  You can never tell what you will see, but among the most regular of guests are the Chinese Egrets, Asiatic Dowitcherrs, and Eurasian Curlews. Not to be forgotten are the Plovers, The Sandpipers, Black-tailed Godwit, and the beautiful Red Knot. These are large and beautiful birds. What a delight to watch them in their home, away from home!

The Chinese Egret breeds on small islands off the coasts of far Eastern Russia, North Korea, South Korea and Mainland China.  It is a tall species with long legs and beautiful white feathers.  During the long severe winters of the North, The Chinese Egret winters in The Philippines and other Asian areas. It is believed that over 50% of these beautiful Migratory Birds winter on Olango Island. How amazing it is to watch them! They are also extremely friendly and usually not afraid of humans. What is there not to love about the Chinese Egret?

Among the  regulars is the beautiful Sandpipers. Snipes, Eurasian Curlews and the Asiatic Dowitcherrs . These migratory birds are becoming threatened and make their winter home on Olango Island. These beautiful regulars on the island are certain to delight you. Most of this group are in the brown color range and have stripes with a little white. Feel free to check out this website for beautiful photo’s of many of the Migratory Birds that winter throughout Asia, especially in the Philippines. The photography is amazing!

 http://www.manilaoldtimer.net/philippinebirds/IOC06Snipes.html    

There are several companies that offer Birding Tours. Here are three major Tour Companies that I know of, who are well-known. For your convenience they are listed below.  This is not a recommendation of services. They are simply listed in most major Birding Journals.  If you love birds, then I recommend that this be the year that you visit the Philippines. Birding is fun! Birding is exciting.  The Philippines  is a birders paradise. What are you waiting for? Book your tour today!  See you on Olango Island.

    http://www.birdingphilippines.com/         

 http://www.birdguidingphilippines.com/      

http://www.rockjumperbirding.com/tours/destinations/the-philippines?crumb=Asia       

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