IKET River: A Paradise in Bulacan (with location and photos)

IKET River

There is only one reason why you're reading this right now. Let me guess. You want to know the location of this underrated, hidden, yet astounding spot in Bulacan called IKET RIVER? At dahil I'm a straight-forward person, sabi nga nila, "wag ng magpa ligoy ligoy pa." :)

So where is it? It's in Sitio Dos, Brgy. Camachin, DRT Bulacan

                                        (DRT, AKLE)

Honestly speaking, this place is not popular in Bulacan. Only a few Bulakenyos know where and how to get here. DRT itself is not a well-known place in Bulacan and you need perseverance if you really want to reach this paradise with crystal-clear water, nestled between a forest and astonishing  river rocks.

What's the catch?

1. The entrance fee is 10 pesos only. That is around $0.22 only!
2. There are 6 cottages. You can rent one for 150 pesos ($3-4)
3. Nipa hut with 1 room - 400 pesos (daytime)
4. According to the caretaker, you can also stay overnight, but he only gave a ballpark figure which is around 2,000 pesos if you want to use the nipa hut magdamag. Just haggle since wala pa daw nag try na mag overnight. You can always try to negotiate. :)
5. There's a large parking area.
6. There's a wet market nearby.
7. There's a grill area and you can also ask the caretaker to cook for you.

It's not easy to find IKET river if it's your first time. I strongly suggest to visit this place with your own vehicle. DRT Akle is near San Rafael and San Ildefonso, which are some of the most popular districts in Bulacan. But then, if you're a nature lover on the go and you're strict with your budget, this one's for you. Obviously, it's worth it.

Tip: Use Google Maps. You can start from SM Baliuag and use Akle Elementary School as your destination. Will post the exact directions soon.

Photos: 

  

MORE PHOTOS!

Cheers!


NEXT: IKET River Experience: (with awesome videos and photos)

For more information, you can coordinate with Kuya Tony (caretaker)
Phone number: 0915 559 7907
Address: IKET River, Sitio Dos, Brgy. Camachin DRT, Bulacan (near Akle Elementary School)

5 Awesome Things to Do in the Philippines for your Holiday

5 Things to Do in the Philippines for your Holiday: 

1. Attend a Fiesta (Festival)

In the Philippines, each town, city, and province has its own fiesta (festival). A Fiesta is either a day to mark the passage of a season or a day to celebrate a saint (most Filipinos are Catholic – 80%). There will be parades, all kinds of Filipino food, market stalls and happy people. The Fiestas vary in size. Some are more grand than others. Some of the most popular Festivals (Fiesta) in Philippines for your vacation are: The Sinulog Festival of Cebu, Dinagyang Festival of Ilo-Ilo, Ati-Atihan Festival of Kalibo, Aklan, Buglasan Festival of Negros Oriental, Masskara Festival of Bacolod City, Panagbenga Festival of Baguio City, The Bangus Festival of Dagupan City, Moriones Festival of Marinduque, Baragatan Festival of Palawan and sooo many more.

Best Things to Do in the Philippines for your Holiday Vacation:

2. Scuba Diving

The Philippines is well known as a top-class dive destination. Whether you’re a beginner or a diving enthusiast, you will enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Philippines’ gorgeous and colorful reefs with vast number of water species. The Philippines is regarded as one of the World’s Best Diving Destinations. Some of the most popular diving destinations in the Philippines are: Sabang Bay in Puerto Galera, Taiei Maru Wreck in Coron, Sombrero in Anilao, The Pier inDumaguete, Canyons in Puerta Galera, Mindoro, Monad Shoal in Malapascua, Coconut in Apo Island, Divers Heaven in Balicasag, Apo Reef in Negros Occidental, Crocodile Island in Boracay. 

Best Things to Do in the Philippines for your Holiday Vacation:

3. Snorkelling

 

If Scuba Diving is too scary for you, Snorkelling can be just as fun. You don’t have to train, but you will still see a lot of underwater attractions. Some of the most popular holiday destinations for snorkelling in the Philippines are: Palawan, Mindoro (Puerto Galera), Siquijor, Boracay, Anilao, Moal Boal, Cebu, Bohol, Apo Island, Dumaguete, and Marinduque.

Best Things to Do in the Philippines for your Holiday Vacation:

4. Swim With the Whales

 

This is definitely one thing you should try. What I suggest, go during peak months (Feb-May) to avoid disappointments.  They will let you watch a video for the briefing, about the do's and dont's and how to show respect to the whales.

Donsol, Sorsogon, Philippines became a popular tourist destination for whale viewing after 1998 when a group of scuba divers discovered that the whale sharks were docile. By March 1998, Donsol became a world-class tourist destination and was known as the " Whale Shark Capital of the World". The whale sharks of Donsol are possibly the largest school in the world. Swimming with whale sharks was featured as the Best Animal Encounter in Asia by TIME MAGAZINE in 2014. Whale sharks can be seen between November and June, with presence peaking between February and May. The whale sharks in Donsol are protected. Only snorkeling is allowed in Donsol Bay, although it is possible to dive with them in nearby areas.

Best Things to Do in the Philippines for your Holiday Vacation:

5. Visit Popular Destinations in the Philippines

There are so many popular travel destinations in the Philippines.

For example;

• El Nido big lagoon
• Gota Beach in Caramoan
• tarsiers and the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, 
• Marlboro Hills in Batanes
• the perfect cone- shaped Mayon Volcano in Albay, 
• the underground river and limestone cave plus the breathtaking white beaches in Palawan 
• the party beaches in Boracay, 
• the Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao, 
• the old Spanish colonial town and street of Vigan, 
• and Camarines Sur – where “Survivor Philippines” was shot
• Baguio Japanese tunnel

Whatever Coastal Area in the Philippines you end up in for your Holiday, look out for different kinds of adventure. You can talk to hotel workers or just about anyone and ask them what they can suggest:  Here are some more suggestions on what to do when you travel to the Philippines on your holiday. A lot of the following are available for rent at the popular beach destinations in the Philippines.

Beach Activities in the Philippines:

•  Parasailing
•  Island Hopping (with tourgides and boat rentals – they can even cook for you)
•  Island Trekking (lakes, mountains, volcanoes, etc)
•  Visit Waterfalls and other bodies of water ( hot springs, lakes, beaches, rivers)
•  Paraw Sailing (different from parasailing)
•  Diving and Scuba Diving
•  Club hopping (there are a lot of bars with live bands in the Philippines)
•  Wind Surfing
•  Cliff Diving
•  Banana Boat
•  Fly Fish Ride
•  Jet Skiing
• Quad Biking
• Henna Tattoo
• ATV Ride
• Helmet Diving
• Cliff Jumping
• Kite Boarding

8 Most Popular Beaches in the Philippines - 2015

Three of CNN's 100 Best Beaches in the World of 2013 are in the Philippines. International publications like  New York Times and Travel+Leisure Magazine named  the Philippines among the hottest tourism destinations. The Philippines is almost the same size as the State of Arizona (roughly 116,000 square miles or 300,000 square kilometers), but it is one of the Top 5 countries with the longest coastlines in the world. With its 7000+ islands, the Philippines is indeed blessed with so many gorgeous beaches.

Based on travel websites, travel blogs and travel reviews, Here are the:

Most Popular Beaches to Travel to in the Philippines: 

#8 - Puerto Galera

Philippines Popular Beaches #8: Puerto Galera, Philippines

Puerto Galera is the northwesternmost municipality in the province of Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. It is located at the southwestern end of the Isla Verde Passage, about 130 kilometers (81 mi) south of Manila. This coastal town is well known among tourists for its numerous pocket beaches and many snorkeling and Scuba diving spots. The area was designated a Man and Biosphere Reserve of UNESCO and has some of the most diverse coral reef diving in Asia.

Philippines Popular Beaches #7: Siargao, Surigao Del Norte, Philippines

#7 -  Siargao

Philippines Popular Beaches #7: Siargao, Surigao Del Norte, Philippines

Siargao is a tear-drop shaped island in the Philippine Sea situated 800 kilometers southeast of Manila in the province of Surigao del Norte. Siargao's coastline is marked by a succession of reefs, small points and white, sandy beaches. One of the best known surfing waves on Siargao and the Philippines, with a worldwide reputation for thick, hollow tubes is "Cloud 9". This right-breaking reef wave is the site of the annual Siargao Cup, a domestic and international surfing competition sponsored by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte. Siargao Island also contains the largest mangrove forest reserves in Mindanao, at Del Carmen.

Philippines Popular Beaches #6: Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, Philippines

#6 - Pagudpud

Philippines Popular Beaches #8: Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, Philippines

 

Pagudpud is a fourth class municipality and a coastal resort town of Ilocos Norte province, in the northern Ilocos Region of the Philippines. Pagudpud rolls over mountains, hills, valleys and flat coastal land. Its white-sand beaches and crystal-blue water makes Pagudpud a haven for tourists. Maira-Ira Point is also an emerging attraction with its secluded beach known as the Blue Lagoon, as well as kilometer-long Saud Beach. On a clear day, the Babuyan Islands ( northernmost group of islands in the Philippines) are visible from Patapat National Park in Pagudpud.

The Patapat Viaduct, 16 kilometers ( 9 mi.) from Pagudpud town proper, offers a scenic view of Pasaleng Bay- a view that leads towards wide and pristine beaches backed by mountains and thick forest, with breathtaking waterfalls Kabigan and Mabaga, along with the many cool, refreshing springs.

Philippines Popular Beaches #5: Panglao, Bohol, Philippines

#5 Panglao

Philippines Popular Beaches #5: Panglao, Central Visayas, Philippines

Panglao is an island in the Philippines located in the Central Visayas. Panglao is located southwest of the island of Bohol and east of Cebu. It is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines and includes several small islands like Gak-ang, Pontod, and Balicasag. Alona Beach in Panglao is sometimes compared to Boracay because of its a amazing white beach and crystal clear water.  Panglao has a terrain that range from plain, hilly to mountainous. Panglao alone has more marine biodiversity than Japan and the Mediterranean sea About 250 new species of crustaceans and 2500 new species of mollusks were found around the island. Panglao Island is one the main tourist destinations on the Philippines.

Panglao is made of Maribojoc Limestone, the youngest of the limestone units found in the western area of Bohol. This coralline limestone is soluble which causes formation of caves and sinkholes. One interesting geological feature found in the island is the Hinagdanan Cave which has an underground water source. The cave is an important water source as the island has no rivers or lakes.

Philippines Popular Beaches #4: Samal City, Davao Del Norte, Philippines

#4 - Samal

Philippines Popular Beaches #4: Samal Island, Davao Del Norte, l

Samal is a 2nd class city 2 kilometers from Davao City, Davao del Norte, Philippines. Its official name is the Island Garden City of Samal. Samal is the largest resort city of the Philippines. The city has good beaches and houses many beach resorts, such as Kaputian Resort, Pearl Farm, Paradise Island, and many more. It has numerous marine reefs and tranquil waters that lure the tourists to visit them. Because of these, the Department of Tourism named it one of the best visiting islands in Mindanao and now one of the fastest growing tourist destination in the country.Best Beaches to Travel to in the Philippines: (2015):

Philippines Popular Beaches #3: Palaui, Cagayan Philippines

#3 Palaui, Cagayan

Philippines Popular Beaches #3 Palaui Island, Sta. Ana, Cagayan, Philippines

Palaui Island was declared as a National Marine Reserve in August 28, 1994 encompassing an area of 7,145 hectares (17,660 acres). The waters around the island boast of 21 commercial species of fishes with about 50 hectares (120 acres) of undisturbed corals. In 2013, Palaui was used as the filming location for the famous TV show Survivor: Blood vs. Water and Survivor: Cagayan. On May 2013, Palaui Island earned the 10th spot in the CNN's World's 100 Best Beaches list - “Glorious white sands meet volcanic rocks and blue-green waters topside, while coral gardens and a rich marine reserve meet divers under the surface. Palaui is all about raw beauty" - CNN.

Philippines Popular Beaches #2: Boracay, Philippines

# 2 - Boracay

Philippines Popular Beaches #2: Boracay, Philippines

Boracay is a small island in the Philippines located approximately 315 km (196 mi) south of Manila. Boracay Island and its beaches have received awards from numerous travel publications and agencies. Apart from its white sand beaches, Boracay is also famous for being one of the world's top destinations for relaxation and nightlife. In 2012, Boracay was awarded as the best island in the world from the international travel magazine Travel + Leisure.

In 2013, one of the less busy beaches in Boracay ( Puka Beach ) earned the 84th spot in the CNN's World's 100 Best Beach List - "Making a respectable claim to its ‘tropical paradise’ reputation, Boracay has powdery beaches, water sports and spas. Puka is the second-longest beach on Boracay and relatively empty most times, with no resorts and a limited number of restaurants” CNN said.

Philippines Popular Beaches #1: El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

# 1 - El Nido

Philippines Popular Beaches #1: El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

Earning the 14th spot in the CNN's Best Beaches in the World List, El Nido is more than just a stereotypical tropical paradise. Beaches, clear waters, underwater caves, jungle, steep limestone cliffs and stunning inlets make for one of the world's most beautiful seascapes. El Nido is a coastal settlement on the Philippines island of Palawan. It is comprised of 45 islands and islets; limestone cliffs, which form a Karst backdrop similar to those found in Ha Long Bay, Krabi and Guilin are also found in El Nido.

"El Nido is the gateway to adventure, "the last frontier" of the Philippines, as it has been dubbed. Powder-fine beaches and gin-clear waters complement the stunning views of karst limestone formations, empty lagoons, marble cliffs, prehistoric caves and waterfalls." - CNNppopular beaches philippines famous beaches best Most Famous Philippine Beaches: El Nido Most Popular Beaches in the Philippines

Top 3 Best Places to Retire in the Philippines

Philippines just bagged a spot in Forbes Magazine’s 20 Best Foreign Retirement Havens for 2015.

“For US retirees, the principal appeal of the Philippines is a low cost of living in a tropical environment full of English speakers and outdoor beauty,” said the internationally renowned US business magazine.

Forbes also cited the non-taxation of foreign income, and that permanent residency can be obtained with a minimal showing of retirement income as other factors for its choice of the Philippines.

Here are the 20 countries that landed on the 20 Best Foreign Retirement Havens for 2015. (alphabetical order)

1. Australia
2. Belize
3. Canada
4. Chile
5. Colombia
6. Costa Rica
7. Croatia
8. Ecuador
9. France
10. Ireland
11. Italy
12. Malaysia
13. Mexico
14. Nicaragua
15. Panama
16. Philippines
17. Portugal
18. Spain
19. Thailand
20. Uruguay

But wait! There's more! Did you know that one city in the Philippines made it to Forbes Magazine's latest list of 7 Best Places To Retire Around The World? Dumaguete City, Philippines made it on the 5th spot!

Many people from the west consider the Philippines a paradise. Plus, the Philippines has the most welcoming and friendly people of any Asian country.

Let me give you

The 3 best places to retire in the Philippines:Best Places to Retire in the Philippines

#1. Dumaguete, Philippines

This place landed on the fifth spot in Forbes Magazine's list of 7 Best Places To Retire Around The World because of the beautiful beaches and for being one of the best places for beachfront living on a budget. The cost of living in this city is cheaper than other bigger and well-known tourist destinations in the country. Dumaguete is among the cheapest places in the world to live, according to Retire Overseas Index. The Index considers 12 factors, including climate, cost of living, crime, existing expat community and healthcare.

Beach resorts, world-class dive sites are some of the attractions that make this tropical city popular with tourists and expats. Several hospitals serve the area. A medical resort is being developed as well, that will cater to the retirement market.Top 3 Places to Retire in the Philippines

Best Places to Retire Philippines

#2. Baguio City

The  “Summer Capital” of the Philippines and known as "The City of Pines." This place has a cooler climate because it sits about 5,300 feet above sea level in the Luzon tropical pine forest ecoregion, making it an ideal climate for mossy plants, beautiful orchids and lush gardens.

Baguio City is a very modern city with open air malls and it has literally everything under the sun: department stores, furniture stores, branded clothes and other items, restaurants and more. It also has a lot of festivals and outdoor activities like horseback riding, biking and golf.Top 3 Best Places to Retire in the Philippines

Best Places to Retire Philippines

#3. Cebu City 

The "Queen City of the South". It is a moderately large island located in the central Visayas in the Philippines. Retiring in Cebu is ideal for those wanting a tropical island environment. You can also choose between a modern environment, a small town or tropical beach setting.

Cebu has a good reputation. It is known as the sister city of Manila but more quiet and more relaxed. It combines all the advantages of being in a modern city plus amazing beaches and mountains.

Retirement in the Philippines equates to a luxurious lifestyle in a tropical paradise. So there, make your choice!

5 Best Activities in Boracay 2015

Everyone knows Boracay. Everyone knows how wonderful it is. It is one of the world's best destinations for relaxation and we will surely never run out of exciting things to do in this place, anytime of the year!

There's a lot of activities in different beaches in the Philippines. We're all aware of some common fun activities like island hopping, snorkeling, diving and more. But there are special and exciting things that Boracay can offer. Activities that will surely stay in your heart and surely worth sharing.

Let's go hashtag Boracay 2015! Let's go hashtag It's more fun in Boracay!
#Boracay2015 #ItsMoreFunInBoracay

Best Things To Do In Boracay:

#1 Helmet Diving

You can be one of the sea creatures. You can play with the fishes, feed them and walk with them. Put your helmets on, experience this awesome activity and have your pictures taken as well. What's the price? P350 only. 

#2 Parasailing

This is one of the best activities in Boracay. Parasailing is popular in different beaches in the Philippines, but the one in Boracay is one of a kind. Like any other parasailing, you will experience being strapped and whisked into the sky by a colorful parachute. There is a speedboat that will tow you and haul you up in the air. You might think this is a scary activity. But I am assuring you, your Boracay vacation isn't complete without this. It is very relaxing on top. You can feel the calm and wonderful see breeze. It is very peaceful on top with very great views that only Boracay can give. What I suggest, do it in White Beach where you can view the beautiful shoreline. If you will do it in Bolabog Beach, you can see the blue water from above. 

#3 Drive ATVs (& SkyCycle Ride)

ATV means all-terrain vehicle,also known as a quad bike. ATV is a fun hobby, a great way to bond with friends and family. Whether you ride for fun or sport, ATV is a nice way to spend your free time. And yes, it is available in Boracay! It will cost you P600.This is a very exciting activity especially for someone who loves driving and land activities. By the way, you'll get a free SkyCycle Ride as well.

#4 Jonah's Fruit Shake

Wait, what?! A fruitshake?! Yes, I get it. You are wondering why it is on my top list. Jonah's Fruitshake is not just an ordinary fruitshake. You will surely never forget their Banana Peanutbutter Shake. They also have the best mango milk shake ever. Ask anyone you know who went to Boracay, they surely know Jonah's Fruitshake. And to those who are planning to go to Boracay, here's tip:

Jonah’s Fruitshake and Restaurant have 2 branches. It is very easy to find if you are on the island and strolling by the beach. One is located in Station 1 Beachfront, Boracay Island (near Guilly's Island) and the other one is located beside Crown Regency Hotel and Resort. Telephone number is: (036) 288.3281 

#5 Restaurants & Night Life

Night life at Boracay is obviously the best and unforgettable experience. Your vacation in this awesome place isn't complete without partying at night. When you say Boracay, "clubbing" and "night party" comes next. Take a look at my article, Boracay vs El Nido,

 - Our Boracay is well known for its party atmosphere. And if you love crowded places and clubbing, this is the right place for you.

5 Interesting Activities in the Philippines

After you get tired of the gorgeous beaches in the Philippines (if that's even possible), here are 5 interesting activities you can do while you're in the Philippines. Whether you're going back to the Philippines for another trip, or you're visiting for the very first time, I have a few suggestions for cool things to add to your itinerary.

#1. SNAKE MASSAGE

Giant pythons? Why not! Only in Cebu City Zoo in the Philippines.

How it works: Zookeepers will tell you to lie down on a bamboo bed and they will brief you on the process especially the DO's and DONT's. They will take four pythons and pile them on top of you. It will take 15 minutes per session. Each snake is fed a pre-massage snack of up to 10 chickens. The idea is they’ll be too stuffed to bother with the tasty human meal lying right underneath them.

DO's:
Relax.
Stay silent.
Be polite.

DONT's:
Do not blow air on the snake - Evidently,blowing air on the snake is like being pinched on the bum. So, even though they are not hungry, it will irritate them and they're still capable of squeezing you to death.

Do not shout for help.- Snakes can feel your vibrations and thinks you’re prey or a predator, depending on the environment. So, keep calm for atleast 15 minutes.

“At first, visitors feel fear but most of the guests who try the snake massage say that they like it. It's like getting a hand massage. You get to enjoy the cold grip of our snakes.” - Giovanni Romarate (zoo manager)

#2. WATERFALL RESTAURANT

The Villa Escudero Resort of San Pablo City in the Philippines offers an interesting and unique experience for guests to get up close and personal with a roaring waterfall while enjoying their lunch.

Here's how their website describes it: "Lunch is served on bamboo dining tables set in a few inches of crystalline running water from the falls. The experience of dining on delicious local dishes with the sparkling waterfalls as a backdrop with clear spring water running over your feet is a truly singular and memorable experience only Villa Escudero can offer."

#3. ISDAAN FLOATING RESTAURANT

Isdaan Floating Restaurant can be found in Gerona, Tarlac City. Experience and savor finest pinoy delicacies in the world class fish restaurant situated on a pond, surrounded by nipa huts that are connected by bamboo bridges. It is truly a one of a kind restaurant where you can even feed thousands of Koi fishes as you stroll along the place or while waiting for your food. There are great musicians that can play your requested songs and you can even have a quick massage while waiting for your food in your hut. And of course, there's a lot of different dishes with excellent taste.

#4. FISH SPA

Why go to a regular spa and get a pedicure from a person when you can go to a Fish Spa and get doctor fish to give you a unique pedicure?

Garra rufa, also called doctor fish or nibble fish, is a species of fish that have been integrated as a spa treatment where they feed on the dead layers of skin cells leaving the feet smoother and softer, while at the same time stimulating pressure points to relax the body and help relieve stress.

Here's a list of fish spas in the Philippines that you can visit:

• Dr. Pisces Fish Spa - 52 Aquino Residences, Napoleon St., Kingville Subdivision, Mayamot, Antipolo City
• Tibiao Fish Spa - SM City General Santos
• My Fish Spa - Boracay
• Heal Your Feet Fish Spa - Cebu City
• Fish Spa - Manila Ocean Park
• Soulstice Spa’s Fish Spa - Unit 6, Greenhills Towncenter, Brgy. Valencia #2 Granada, Quezon City, 1112 Metro Manila
• Isla de Vida Fish Spa Therapy - BF Resort Dr, Las Pinas, Metro Manila

Cool Interesting things to do in Philippines

#5. HANGING COFFINS OF SAGADA

Many cultures bury their dead out of sight beneath a commemorative headstone or a plaque. Some societies in China, Indonesia and Philippines have been hanging their ancestors prominently on cliff faces.

If you're heading up North, you can go to Sagada, Mountain Province, to see the hanging coffins from mountain cliffs. Filipino minority groups suspend caskets from the mountain rocks because they believe that this will bring the deceased closer to heaven.

There is a place where you can see the hanging coffins closely or from a far. After a little less than an hour of hiking and trekking, your sweat will be rewarded by this piece of history and heritage. The view is definitely relaxing and rewarding.

Boracay vs. El Nido Palawan

Boracay or Palawan?

Where's the better place to go?  Which is more beautiful? Boracay or El Nido Palawan?

Let's go ahead and compare two of the most wonderful places in the Philippines (and the world). Let's see which one you should go to.

Boracay is very famous because of its white fine sand but some people argue that the sand of El Nido is finer. Boracay is also well known for its party atmosphere.

On the other hand, El Nido Palawan is very famous because of great adventures, awesome limestone cliffs surrounding the big lagoon and great landscapes.

By the way, both El Nido and Boracay are famous for being world's top destinations for relaxation. Yes, both heavens on earth indeed.

Let's see.

If you are planning to go on a vacation and you prefer nature and you want to get away and have a quiet vacation, El Nido Palawan is likely the best place for you. A lot of couples go to Palawan for their honeymoon because of the romantic atmosphere. It feels private and secluded. You can also island hop, explore secret lagoons, and see the breath-taking limestone cliffs in El Nido. In El Nido, Palawan, you can simply observe perfect and preserved nature spots up close and at its best.

I've been to El Nido,Palawan and all I can say is: It is truly a paradise. El Nido is unbelievable. 

Now, if you you prefer a party atmosphere, if you love crowded places and clubbing, you might want to choose Boracay. There are also so many restaurants (with international cuisines) to go to in Boracay. There's a lot of exciting things to do as well like wind surfing, snorkeling, island hopping, parasailing, zorb and zipline, scuba diving, ATV drive and more.

If you don't feel like doing anything in Boracay, you can also just sit on the beach and enjoy watching the water and the crowd.

For me, if you are planning to have a vacation with your special someone, you should go to Palawan because it is truly a romantic place. If you are going with your friends or family, I suggest you go to Boracay. But of course, it still depends on you.

I hope I helped :)

Why Visit the Philippines? Here are 3 Reasons.

#1. Warm and Friendly People 

People in the Philippines (Filipinos) are friendly, warm & hospitable. A lot of Filipinos also speak English, so you can get help and information in most places you go.

#2. Lots of Stunning Places to Visit and Lots of Things to Do

There are so many beautiful places to visit in the Philippines. The Philippines is an archipelago of 7107 islands – lots of bodies of water means lots of tourist destinations!

#3. Cost. Everything is Relatively Cheap in the Philippines

Food, transportation, rentals are cheap. Of course there are pricey places, but there a lot of options for people who are travelling on a budget.

 For more information about the cost of living and prices of common commodities in the Philippines - visit http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Philippines

Philippines Trivia:

•  The average yearly temperature in the Philippines is 26.6°C (79.88°F). There are three seasons: (1) the hot and humid season or summer from March to May; (2) the rainy season from June to November; (2) the cooler season from December to February
• The current population of the Philippines is 103 million
• The Philippines is divided into 3 major islands – Luzon (North) , Visayas (Middle), Mindanao (South)
• The capital of the Philippines is Manila
• The national language of the Philippines is Tagalog. Although there are between 120 and 175 languages, depending on the method of classification.
• Philippine Currency is called Peso
• The name Philippines came from King Philip II