At the Back of Our Residence in Barangay Mercedes, Catbalogan City, Samar, Philippines

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M GRAND ROYALE RESORT, Catbalogan City, Samar, Philippines

Thank you, Youtube!

Panglao, Bohol is Next

For some, Panglao is just another town in Bohol which is often visited by local and foreign tourists because of its beautiful beaches. But do not be deceived by this place. It is going to be the next important destination in the province.

The recently-opened Bohol-Panglao International Airport is now the gateway to Bohol. Its resort-like structure is equipped with solar roofs that generate electricity to the whole complex. Of course, it also has modern features that can already receive multiple airplanes even from international destinations.

Panglao is known for its beaches but the most popular is the Alona Beach where resorts and hotels have mushroomed through the years. It is said that it was named as such from a Filipino actress in the 70s with the same name because she frequented the place and was a regular habitue since day one that she set foot on the beach.

Its waters is teeming with marine life which benefit the locals and tourists. It is surrounded by vast seas from all over the Visayas region. I just hope that over-tourism will not spoil nature which is at its pristine best.

Activities such as dolphin-watching and snorkeling are some that tourists also go to in Panglao. The clean and clear sea is enticing and exciting. Other leisure and fun recreations are also offered by other resorts.

Hotels and resorts abound in Panglao. From the middle range up to the most expensive are there for tourists to choose from. Prices range from the most practical up to the lavish depending on one's budget and preference.

Since the opening of the new airport, commercial establishments have opened in the different areas of the municipality. With vast lands and space, there is more that Panglao can offer its visitors. Fast food restaurants and fine dining ones are open for everyone. Other businesses such as banks, souvenir stores, money changing establishments, services and others can already be found there.

One thing that I liked from my recent visit to Panglao was the serenity that I felt for 2 nights and 3 days. It was an escape from the maddening Metro Manila atmosphere. It was a retreat that I truly enjoyed.

Credit to the owners of some of the photos.

Boracay is Still One of the Best

Boracay, one of Conde Nast Traveler's top islands in the world, is part of the Municipality of Malay, Province of Aklan in the Visayas region. It is one of the Philippines' pride aside from Palawan. Despite its closure for six months, the island is still a favorite among local as well as international tourists.

Being one of the top means that amenities should be world-class. It should be perfect for everyone who wish to enjoy the island vibe that is typically Asian yet comparable to resorts in other Asian destinations such as Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia or Maldives.

The beauty of Boracay is mesmerizing. I am proud that it is in the Philippines and we have a gift from nature that we can boast to the world. With its recent closure and rehabilitation, it is more enticing to visit now more than ever.

Several events and activities can be done and offered in Boracay. Beach weddings are held there by those who want to veer away from the usual church weddings. Conventions are also held in the island. Activities such as banana boat ride as well as parasailing are only some that one can do in Boracay.

Good thing, the local government unit as well as the Department of Tourism and the Department of Natural Resources in coordination with the Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Works and Highways has devised a system of having routes in going to the island. A jetty port has been built so that the beachfront is not distracted with the sight of boats.

Whatever time of the day, Boracay radiates beauty at its best. As a Filipino, my wish is that it won't be spoiled by over-tourism and maintain its island mystique that can only be exuded by one the world's best that is BORACAY.

Credit to the owners of the photos.

Tagbilaran City: Where the Old and the New Meet

Tagbilaran City is one of the cities in the Visayas where the old and the new meet. Centuries-old churches as well as new establishments co-exist. It is in this part of the region that religiosity comes to fore.

It may not have a big land area but it boasts of people who have carved good names for the city and for the Province of Bohol. Though frequently visited by typhoons and earthquakes, Tagbilaran City has remained steadfast and its people continue with their daily activities for the further development of the city.

Proof to this is the continued opening of business establishments to cater to the growing needs of the city as well as to the tourists who have made Tagbilaran City a must-see place in the country.

Since it is located in the heart of the Visayas where sea and its by-products abound, it is a haven for tourists who come in the different modes of transportation. It is now one of the docking places in the Visayas for cruise ships.

The Tagbilaran Airport is now closed and the Panglao International Airport now services the needs of travellers both local and foreign. The latter caters to more flights to and from places in the Philippines and also has flights to neighboring Asian nations.

Tagbilaran City is where nature and modern facilities can be found. The famous Alona Beach located in nearby Panglao is one of the favorites of all tourists.

Malls have sprouted in the city. Notable is the absence of big malls can be seen in major cities in the Philippines. Locally-owned establishments dominate the mall scene.

With its newly-renovated city hall, Tagbilaran is really at the forefront not only of Bohol but in Central Visayas as well. Despite the modern times, the city has remained quaint and a bastion of the Catholic faith this side of the country.