flickr/ppborla
The Tubbataha Reef in the Sulu Sea is a marine sanctuary protected as
the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park. The reef is made up of two
atolls, North Atoll and South Atoll, separated by a deep channel of
approximately 5 miles (8 km) wide. It has become one of the most popular
dive sites in the Philippines because of its coral walls where the
shallow coral reef abruptly ends giving way to great depths. The marine
park is open to live-aboard diving excursions between the months of
April to June when the waves are most calm.
San Agustin Church, Manila
flickr/benjieordonez
Located in Manila, a visit to the San Agustin Church is a must see.
Built in 1589, this beautiful church has survived seven earthquakes and
two fires over the centuries and now remains as the oldest stone church
in the Philippines. At the main entrance, there are exquisite carvings
on the wooden doors. Inside the lovely, Mexican-influenced interior is
designed in the shape of a Latin cross. The gorgeous ceiling was painted
in the 1800s by Italian artists, Giovanni Dibella and Cesare Alberoni.
Mayon Volcano
flickr/Storm Crypt
Rising more than 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) above sea level, Mayon
Volcano is significant for its perfectly symmetrical cone shape.
Visitors can enjoy a number of activities here such as camping,
climbing, hiking, bird watching and photography. A picturesque spot in
which to admire Mayon Volcano is from the nearby Cagsawa ruins. Mayon is
the most active volcano in the Philippines, having erupted over 49
times in the past 400 years. The most destructive eruption of Mayon
occurred on February 1, 1814 bombarding the nearby towns with volcanic
rocks. The belfry and what is left of the baroque church that was
destroyed by the 1814 eruption can still be seen.
Malapascua Island
flickr/grooble
A small island made up of quiet fishing villages, Malapascua Island is
popular for its ideal diving spots and for being the only place in the
world to see thresher sharks on a regular basis as well as manta rays
and hammerheads. The other hidden gems here are the beautiful, sandy
white beaches, crystal clear waters bordered by coconut trees and
colorful coral gardens.
Puerto Galera
flickr/Storm Crypt
Just south of Manila is the charming coastal town of Puerto Galera,
well-favored for its gorgeous beaches, excellent diving spots and wide
diversity of marine species. The most popular beaches are White Beach
and Sabang Beach, which also offer nearby shopping, dining, nightlife
and hotel accommodation. Another popular attraction is the natural
harbor of Muelle Bay with its rows of shops, restaurants and bars.
Visitors can also go snorkeling to see some of Asia’s best coral reefs
or dive among old shipwrecks and hundreds of fish species.
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