Top 3 Diving Spots in Mindanao that You Need to Explore

For explorers, discovering dazzling wonders are pretty much rewarding. How much more when you are able to discern what lies on the ocean floors? The good thing for the Filipinos is, there are lots of diving spots that are widely visited and some are yet to be explored in the Philippines. Nonetheless, you might want to include them in your bucket list.

Top 3: Agutayan Island

Diving in Agutayan Island could be one of your great and unforgettable experiences. The under waters of this island is like being adorned with a myriad of marine species. Giant clams, vibrant colors of school of fishes, porcupines, gorgonians, and hammerheads are just some that you can take a peek on. In addition to this, enjoy seeing those mesmerizing reefs.

Top 2: Dakak

Similar to that of the Agutayan Island, Dakak also has it fair share of wondrous underwater view. See a variety of fishes of different colors and other marine life. Apart from this, experienced divers can also explore a sunken passenger liner in Dakak.

Top 1: Camiguin

Camiguin is noted for its fascinating shape. As a matter of fact, its layout is acquired because of the seven volcanoes present in the area. However, Camiguin can give you more than just being enthralled. You can be spellbound with a wide range of underwater destinations because of its diversity.

These are not the only wonderful diving spots in Mindanao. In fact, there are still a lot and are just waiting for you!

Top 5 Tourist Destinations in Zamboanga

For a wanderlust, there are lots of places in the Philippines you can pay a visit. One of these is Zamboanga. The place is filled with wonderful views where you can watch the sunset or just relax with your friends or family. In this article, you can include the places in your travel itinerary.

Top 5: Fort Pilar and Museum

The warmth of cultural heritage is fostered in this major landmark of Zamboanga. It was built on 1635 and yet, the place is considered as a beautiful fortress that house a variety of artifacts.

Top 4: Barter Trade Markets

If you are looking for souvenirs, Canelar Trading Center is the place where you can find affordable gifts for your family and friends.

Top 3: Pasonanca Natural Park

Do you want to escape the busy routine? Then Pasonanca Natural Park is the place to relax and ease those burdens as you watch the lush surroundings and vibrant garden.

Top 2: Sta. Cruz Island

You can go island hopping in Zamboanga and Sta. Cruz Island is definitely a must-try. The majestic island features pink sand along with the picture-perfect waters.

Top 1: City Hall and Rizal Park

The city hall of Zamboanga is historic. Despite the place’s old age which is over a hundred years old, the city hall still looks beautiful and attractive. Just in front of it, you will see their Rizal Park, a good place to hang out!

These are not the only tourist spots in Zamboanga. There are still lot to see and experience to fill in that wanderlust. Enjoy!

Bukidnon: Unravel the Wonderful Destinations

Are you feeling soaked in city traffic and stress? Definitely, there is a need to let it out and the best way to do it is relax in rewarding places. Talking about rewarding places, Bukidnon has a lot for you. Well then, check these tourist spots in Bukidnon!

Discovery #1: Majestic Mountains

With Bukidnon’s geography, it is way out of the shoreline. Still, there is nothing to fret on what you can do in the place. As a matter of fact, you can go hiking in their majestic mountains such as Kitanglad Mountain Range, Mt. Dulang Dulang, Mt Capistrano, and Panimahawa Ridge.  Going hiking in these mountains will make you  sweat. But the hard work will surely be rewarded! Plus you get to see amazing wonders of creation!

Discovery #2: Kampo Juan

Nestled in Manolo Fortich, the 9-hectare adventure park is famous for environmental advocacy. In addition to this, enjoy a unique experience in Kampo Juan with anicycle adventure, zipline rides, paramotoring, and rappelling. Its a perfect place to unwind and to do a little adventure!

Discovery #3: Monastery of Transfiguration

The place is popular as venue for weddings because of its architectural attraction and yet, the place is also perfect for individual’s reflection. In the same place, get to experience a wondrous treat of Monk’s Blend Coffee and Monk’s Peanut Butter. Really a must try! 

There are still a lot of tourist spots to name of  but the 3 are the first on my list! We will feature other places in the next days!

Indeed, Bukidnon has lots to offer and it is for you to discover. Unravel the places and experience the rewarding bliss the world has to offer. Enjoy!

Advantages of Living in Mindanao

Settling in Philippines is one great idea for expats. They may consider living in the provinces of Luzon and Visayas, but would have second thoughts in Mindanao due to security reasons. Despite the downside, the locals testify that their experience living in Mindanao is fun and incomparable. Nonetheless, here are some of the advantages of living in Mindanao that you might need to know to consider including it in your list!

·      Cost of living is cheap. Food, utilities, and transportation come at an affordable price. This is indeed a great perk if you are planning to settle a long time or permanently in the country.

·      Lots of tourist spots. If you want to take some leisure time, then you have your share to relax with a wide options of tourist destinations you can find in Mindanao. Enjoy seeing the lush and green environment and as well as the divine and inviting beaches. The place will not bore you out as you can go hiking, swimming or just merely sight-seeing with friends or family,

·      Security. Mindanao is labelled for travellers a “No Go”. It is true that there are issues going on in Mindanao, but it does not mean that the whole Mindanao is in trouble! As a matter of fact, there are provinces or cities such as Davao and Cagayan de Oro that are considered safe due to strict ordinances and regular inspections.

·     Hospitable and friendly. There is no doubt that Filipinos are hospitable and friendly. However, it should be noted that the locals would exercise cautiousness especially to the expats. Nevertheless, you just have to be friendly and act like you are one of them.

Indeed, Mindanao has its perks to be considered as a safe and suitable place to live in. If you are not convinced, you can visit the place and stay there for a couple of days to see it for yourself. Enjoy!

Where to Stay in Ozamis City

Where to Stay in Valencia City

Where to Stay in Malaybalay City

Many people say - Malaybalay is the "Baguio City" in Mindanao. Yes indeed! The place is cold and is a perfect place to unwind and detach from the hustle and bustle of Cagayan de Oro.

Where to stay in Malaybalay, please check below. Will continuously update this list.

1. LOIZAS SUITES -   The hotel has easy access to the city's must see attractions.

Address:  Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, Philippines

Phone:   +63 8822 14454

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/LoizasPavilion/

Where to Stay in Maramag Bukidnon

Where to Stay in Samal

Where to Stay in Butuan City

Where to Stay in Surigao City

Where to Stay in Zamboanga City

Wh

Where to Stay in Iligan City

Where to Stay in Cagayan de Oro City

List of Hotels and Rates:

Where to Stay in Davao City

For anyone travelling to Davao or nearby cities, below are the list of hotels, motels, pension houses and even houses. 1. Park Inn Radisson Davao 2. Big Apple Hotel 3. The Ritz Hotel at Garden Oases 4. Hotel Tropika Davao 5. My Hotel 6. Hotel Uno 7. Anisabel Suites 8. Red Knight Gardens 9. Royal Mandaya Hotel 10. The Pinnacle Hotel and Suites 11. Green Windows Dormitel 12. Apo View Hotel 13. Hotel Galleria Davao 14. ALu Hotel 15. Tinhat Boutique Hotel and Restaurant 16. Seda Abreeza 17. Bahay ni Tuding Inn 18. Las Casitas II Hotel #509 Loyola Street, Bo. Obrero, Davao City Tel: (082) 222 6552, Mobile: 0922 868 0152 Webpage: www.lascasitashotels.com Hotel Rates : Single with Pull-out A (2pax) - 795.00 Single with Pull-out B (2pax) - 895.00 Single with Pull-Out C (2pax) - 995.00 Twin Budget A - 695.00 Tiwn Budget B - 895.00

Why You Should Practice Backyard Gardening?

Growing crops such as tomatoes, eggplant, and string beans could pick anyone’s interest into liking. One fond reason is that you will be growing food for your consumption and it is somewhat rewarding. On the high note, there are lots of benefits!

• Maintenance. Vegetable garden does not demand a two or three individuals to maintain the garden. One will suffice.
  
• Control on harvest. You can then decide to harvest the whole crops or just take some of it on a daily basis. For a fact, newly harvested crops are more nutritious than those bought in store.
  
• Great savings. Fruits and vegetables sold in the market are often expensive. However, with your backyard garden, you can save a lot.

We, Mindanaon are blessed of having vast lands to grow vegetables. Try backyard gardening now. It is easy to start, simple and rewarding. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Davao Aguilas FC vs Ilocos United FC, 0-0 Game

Davao Aguilas FC  supported by San Miguel Corporation (SMC), hosted another packed football match in its home turf in Davao Del Norte Sports Complex in Tagum. This time, Its match vs. Ilocos United Football Club (IUFC) was its third home game, and all three (3) games have generated an attendance of at least twelve thousand (12,000) football spectators.

Popular celebrities like Asec. Mocha Uson and the Mocha Girls together with the Malditas Philippines Women's National Football Team were some of the spectators proudly wearing Davao Aguilas shirts and banners.

The match ended with 0-0 score but it was a good fight! It was our first time to watch a professional football game. We shouted, we rejoiced! We had a blast! 

We will support Team Mindanao all the way! Sukol Aguilas! 

There will be another match tomorrow at the same venue in Tagum, Davao del Norte Sports Complex. This time their opponent is Global Cebu FC. Go Aguilas!!

Life in Mindanao

Happy long weekend to all!

Today is Saturday but our schedule is full. Living in Mindanao is such a blessing, aside from the fresh air, we get to enjoy cheap food and less hectic life. Value of money is so much better here! How can i compare? Of course, we lived in Manila (Luzon) for almost 15 years, 4 years in Cebu (Visayas). But since we moved to Mindanao - our life is getting better and better.

You will come across so many reasons to in the days to come as I will document them here. One reason at a time!

President Duterte declared Martial Law in Mindanao thus we felt safer each day. 

Summer Is Not Over Yet

Summer is not over for us yet! Kids are busy with their summer classes and hopefully end of May when all these summer programs ended, we can have a short break from the hustle and bustle of Davao City.

We've been really busy these past few weeks trying to shape up -  both in sports and Math tutorials. 

Today is Mothers Day, please allow me to greet all the Super Moms out there for taking care of us!

Should You Travel During the Peak Season?

Travel experts would suggest travelling during off-peak season because it costs less but for families with children, holiday breaks are the only opportunity to travel together. So how can you score cheap flights or accommodations for peak season trips? Plan ahead and book flights early. Plane tickets are cheaper when you book them several months before your scheduled trip. You can also take advantage of seat sales or travel expo for booking cheap flights and accommodations. Check out alternative accommodation options like AirBnb or hostels. You may also consider looking at off-beat destinations which are not yet popular with the tourist so that you can relax and enjoy your vacation.

Chase the Summer with Mindanao’s Tourist Destinations

A vacation is just one great idea to get into an adrenaline rush. Feeling the heartbeat and excitement in seeing new places can definitely ease the boredom and let you temporarily separated from the chains of daily routines. Speaking of vacation, there are lots of wonderful places to visit in the Philippines, especially in Mindanao.

Must Visited Places that You Should Not Miss

Just to add to your bucket list of tourist destinations in Mindanao, see what this write-up has in store for you!

Top 3: Lake Sebu

Dubbed as the “Summer Capital of Southern Philippines”, the place offers a cool and serene atmosphere. This is perfect for individuals or groups who want to escape the boisterous cities and be with a tranquil environment. Anyone can enjoy the view of different sceneries in one place such as waterfalls and mountain.  

Top 2: Tinuy-an Falls

Whether you want to get energized or spend time with friends or family, the Tinuy-an Falls is a perfect destination. Situated in Bislig, Surigao del Sur, the place offers the tourists a lot of surprises from the mesmerizing view itself and to the things that you can do while in the place with your company. Enjoy a variety taste of seafood or even do bamboo rafting.

Top 1: Mount Apo

Among the prime attractions in Mindanao is the Mount Apo. It is nestled between Davao City, Davao del Sur and Cotabato provinces. With a height of 2,954 meters, it never failed to attract visitors, especially those who love the magnificent mountains. Climbing the superb heap is indeed a challenge, but it is a great feat!

There are lots of other tourist destinations in Mindanao that are not included in the list. Some of these are Eden Nature Park, Samal Island, Maragusan and many more. Each has something to offer and is reassuring to be surprising and exciting just like what the above listed destinations