30 Magical Sunsets in the Philippines

The metro train was packed with afternoon commuters earger to go home from a busy day at work.
None of them would have probably noticed the stunning view from outside the train. At that moment, the late afternoon sun was about ready to set in Manila.

As the train sped off from one station to another, I noticed the swiftly changing dramatic hues outside. The sky was painted with a collage of colors -- from pink, bright orange, and red. The sun was catching up with the speed of the train and many times, it made attempts to peek through the skyscrapers in Makati.

When I finally reached my destination, the early evening breeze greeted me.

As I was walking home, I realized how magical sunset experiences in the countryside are for me. The seemingly ordinariness of sunset is something that I often take for granted amidst the crazy city life. This daily phenomenon seems so trivial for many of us that we often fail to appreciate and really see the calm and beauty of it. It's a reminder of a passing day, telling us that no matter how bad it had been, there's always another day waiting to make things better.

While I was traveling the 80 provinces of the Philippines, I have witnessed some of the most amazing sunsets, in some of the most beautiful settings -- beside the beach, atop a mountain, near the rice fields. Allow me to take you to some of these spots around the country.

Note: Some of the sunsets below are also included in the article I wrote for rappler.com.

Footnotes from my travels around the 80 provinces of the Philippines

Growing up in a small, remote village in Catanduanes made me appreciate the value of travel through books and dreams. I remember leafing through my Sibika at Kultura book --  making sense of our country's history and culture, and enjoying the pages showing the "Magagandang Tanawin ng Pilipinas." Books taught me that the Philippines is dotted with famous tourist spots like the Banaue Rice Terraces, San Juanico Bridge, Magellan's Cross, Maria Cristina Falls, and Chocolate Hills.

Back then, my idea of Manila was not about huge shopping malls or skyscrapers or traffic jam. Manila, back then, was about Luneta and Fort Santiago. 

More than anything, books taught me to dream.

For the past five years, I've been fortunate to have visited all the destinations that I have once read about and dreamed of seeing when I was a kid.

But my travels did not end there. Instead, I challenged myself to visit the more remote destinations in our country. I dared myself to visit 80 (of the 81) provinces of the Philippines before I turn 30 years old, a challenge I have completed last year.

Let me share with you some discoveries and lessons I learned while doing the 80 before 30 challenge.

GMA7's Unang Hirit features Backpacking Pilipinas' travel tips

In my recent interview with Unang Hirit, I shared some tips on how to make your summer getaway more fun even on a shoestring budget. It's important to plan your trip ahead of time, book your flight months earlier to score for some cheaper fares, allot more budget on food and tours, read travel blogs when researching your destination, and explore unique and unspoiled places this summer. 

For more details, watch this video, courtesy of GMA7. 

Summer 2014 Travel Guide: 16 Best Unspoiled Philippine Beach Destinations

Summer hasn't officially kicked off yet, but the blue sky and the sun beating down hard outside are nature's way of reminding me that my favorite season is just around the corner.

I love summer! It's the season we see flowers in full bloom, the skies clear and the beaches are postcard-perfect; we get lazy basking under the warm summer sky and get much longer sleep; we go out at night for firefly-watching, camping, and road trips; and doze off to sleep in the cool afternoon breeze while on a hammock underneath a mango tree. For most of us, summer is synonymous to vacation. It's the time of the year when we plan out getaways, travel with our family and friends, and head to our summer refuge --the beach. 

With our endless coastlines, there's definitely no shortage of white sand beaches we can go around here. But in the recent years, beach-goers have been mostly concentrated in the world-famous island in the Visayas-- Boracay. Year after year, this paradise has been seeing huge man-made developments to cater to the demands of the growing influx of foreign and local tourists. Yes, huge amount of money goes to the island's coffers, but I have to say that too much commercialism is also taking toll to this once pristine, quiet and immaculate island. I wonder how beautiful it must have been there before madness settled in.

This summer, my advise is to try to veer away from Boracay and explore the lesser-known but equally pretty beaches (without the party crowd). 

After visiting the 80 (of the 81) provinces in the Philippines, I'm blessed to have been to many splendid beaches that boast of quality fine sandy shoreline, spectacular sunsets and sunrises, amazing dive sites, lush mangrove forests, and clear emerald-colored waters. The beauty of these beaches will blow your mind!

80Before30 Recap:30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines

The best part with traveling the Philippines is that it offers unlimited adventures-- not to mention that it's dirt-cheap going around here. A country with 7,107 islands will surely never run short of fun and adventures. With our vast coastline offering numerous white sand beaches, magnificent mountain ranges, diverse culture, and delightful dishes, we offer endless fun to everyone.

Here are some reasons why it's more fun in the Philippines.

Beaches. 

It’s no secret that our country is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Allow me to rave about the fine sandy beaches of Panglao Island, Calaguas Island and Boracay Island, the remoteness of Caramoan, Cagbalete Island, Palaui Island and Malcapuya Island, the rawness of Palumbanes Island, the vast shoreline of Pagudpud, the  clear blue waters of White Island in Camiguin and the beauty of Anawangin and Nagsasa Coves.

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 30. El Nido

And we're down to the last spot... finally. :) 

So last night I thought it would be fun to ask my Facebook friends to help me find the perfect place that deserves to be on this Top 30 Favorite Spots list. I got a few interesting answers, but one stood out and seemed to have won the hearts of many. My sister, Cha, even noted that this place deserves a higher spot on the list. Hands down, the readers' choice is El Nido. 

Fact is I haven't been to El Nido, yet. It's that one destination I've been meaning to go for a long time, but had to be put off for a while because I had to finish my 80Before30 challenge. I've been to Palawan's Coron and Puerto Princesa, but I guess I'm reserving El Nido for a special trip this year. This coming September, I'm finally booked for El Nido  (many thanks, Anchi!). 

So what's in El Nido, anyway? I've seen very tantalizing photos and heard great stories about its dramatic towering cliffs, enchanting lagoons, gorgeous sunsets, secret coves, pristine beaches, caves, waterfalls and mangrove forests. All amazing! Many travel magazines and blogs hailed it as one of the best travel destinations in the world. 

All these raves and accolades elevated my El Nido expectations to a level much like what I had before with Batanes, but I have to wait a bit more. Hopefully, September comes a little sooner. 

Sand, sea, and limestone cliffs  (Photo courtesy: Cha Gurrobat)

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 29. Baguio

Much has changed in Baguio since my first visit decades ago. Back then, only street vendors and local businessmen compete among each other. Now, the retail giant SM has already invaded the city, making the competition tougher for the locals. Back then, ukay-ukay has not been introduced yet, now, it covers a significant space along the busy stretch of Session Road. Back then, a trip to Baguio is never complete without a photo-op with the Igorot tribesmen clad in their local costumes at Botanical Garden. Now, not so many people do that. Over the years, this vibrant city known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, has caught up with the demands of the modern times. It is the face of an ever-changing metropolis. 

Although some has changed in Baguio since the first time I visited it, I still consider it one of my favorite destinations. I may have been to other beautiful places in the country, but there’s no denying that taking a trip to this city once in a while offers a lull from my daily urban grind. Those fog-kissed pine trees and the morning mist on the windows of Victory Liner bus as it ascends through the long and winding road to Baguio still brings a warm fuzzy feeling to my heart. 

The topography, the people and even the climate may have changed a bit, but some things will never change in Baguio. It's still the best place to go sight-seeing, food trip, museum-hopping, shopping, and trying out new adventures. 

Check out my blog on the must-do activities in Baguio. 

A Baguio trip favorite must-do -- boating at Burnham Park

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 28. Cebu

Cebu has a perfect slice of everything that keeps tourists drawn in. From historical sites, heritage churches, museums, delicious food, world-class beaches, dive spots, waterfalls and mountains... it delivers. Who wouldn't fall for this amazing province? 

Although Cebu is highly urbanized already, a lot of its old charms are still preserved. Much like Manila, but not quite so. When I visited it in 2010, the first thing that struck me was its certain semblance to Luzon counterpart. And like Manila, it gives an impression that it is just a place with the accumulation of buildings and people. But at the end of our day tour, I realized that Cebu is not called Queen City of the South for nothing. It offers a lot more.

To jump-start your Cebu adventure, explore the oldest city in the Philippines, Cebu City. It is home to some notable spots that are worth visiting like the Basilica Minore del Sto Nino, Magellan’s Cross, Taoist Temple, Fort San Pedro, and Lapu-lapu Shrine (Lapu-Lapu City).

Cebu is also known for its immaculate and pristine beaches that many travelers rave about. The beaches at Malapascua and Batayan rank high among the best in the country. For adventurers, head straight to Kawasan Falls in Badian or try scaling the scenic Osmeña Peak at Dalaguete. 

Cebu has a lot for you. More of my Cebu story here.

The wooden cross, also known as Magellan's Cross, symbolizes the spread of Catholicism in the Philippines 

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 27. Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte

Solo traveling to Siargao and surfing near the Cloud 9 will always be two of my favorite moments in 80 Before 30. That afternoon, as I was gazing at the surf actions happening close to the iconic wooden boardwalk, I felt daunted by the idea of surfing that I almost decided to put it off and just bask in the afternoon breeze and sunset. After a while, I decided that a trip to Siargao without surfing is like a trip to Boracay without swimming. So a few minutes later, I was out in the sea, riding the waves. 

As the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, many people travel to Siargao to surf. But I learned that there's more to this tiny island than just to try its 9-shaped waves. It also boasts of some of the most beautiful islands in the country. Off its coast, you may rent a boat and have a day trip to the picture-perfect Naked Island, Daku Island and Guyam Island.

Close to Siargao, another must-see destination is the town of Socorro, home to Bucas Grande Islands which is also known as Sohoton Cave National Park. Enjoy the natural wonders of that place which include the Sohoton Cave, the Blue Lagoon, and the Tojoman Lagoon, a unique sanctuary where you can see and play with millions of non-sting jellyfishes. 

Wonderful sights, adrenaline-pumping waves and a peaceful environment, Siargao and Surigao del Norte are definitely some places you should consider visiting soon. 

The iconic wooden boardwalk leading surfers to the break

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 26. Camiguin

Completing my 80Before30 Challenge tore down a lot of  my personal biases against traveling in Mindanao -- the threats and dangers of exploring the southern region specially for a solo backpacking woman. But while there are indeed some volatile areas that are better left off from the tourist trail, a vast area in Mindanao is generally peaceful and safe to explore.

A fine example of this is the tourist-magnet island province of Camiguin, located in the northern part of Mindanao. Often called the "Island Born of Fire" because much of it was formed through earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and  considered the second-smallest province in the country, Camiguin will surely hit the sugar spot of those travelers gunning for natural wonders. Must-visit destinations in Camiguin are: White Island ( a sandbar with super clear water and fine sand), Mantigue Island ( a divers' paradise), Ardent Hot Spring (waters coming from Mt. Hibok-Hibok), Katibawasan Falls (cold and gentle cascade) and Tuawasan Falls.

Another interesting spot in Camiguin is the Sunken Cemetery which is marked by a huge cross. This cross serves as the island's reminder today, a ruin when the old town of Catarman was pushed down below sea level following the eruption of Mt. Vulcan in the 1800s.

There's indeed a lot to like about Camiguin. For me the one that really stood out when I visited it back in 2011 was when we saw a pod of dolphins freely wading through the waters of Camiguin, which is often said to be a frequent sight in the island. I still consider it as one of my favorite moments while traveling around the Philippines, and the one that consistently tickles my itchy feet to come again to Camiguin.

My short blog about my quick Camiguin trip here.

Mt. Hibok-Hibok seen from White Island

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 25. Sorsogon

There are a lot of reasons why you should choose Sorsogon as your next travel destination -- the gentle whale sharks of Donsol, the surfing spots in Gubat, boating at Bulusan Lake, a trek to Mt. Bulusan, the centuries-old churches in Barcelona and Gubat, and the beaches off the coasts of Bacon, Sta. Magdalena and Matnog.

Of the many times I've been to Sorsogon, probably my most favorite was when I visited a beautiful unspoiled beach in a small island located at Matnog, the southernmost municipality of Luzon. I've heard a lot about it from my friends so I reckoned it must be worth checking out, and I'm glad I made it there. The beach is named Subic, well... not to be confused with the Subic in Zambales. 

This one appeals to me most because it is achingly remote and serene, a perfect getaway from the madness of Manila. It took us 15 hours to get to Matnog and another 45 minutes to finally get to Calintaan Island, where Subic Beach is located. But the butt-numbing bus ride and the rowdy boat ride were the pains worth-taking. We enjoyed our stay there (my second favorite in Bicol) and basked in its glorious clear blue waters and powdery pink sand. 

More of my stories about Sorsogon here. 

The pristine Subic Beach

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 24. Tawi-Tawi

Tawi-Tawi, the southernmost province of the Philippines, was a revelation to me.  

A remote province that is often portrayed negatively in media for violence and kidnapping, Tawi-Tawi isn't exactly the place most people would want to go for vacation. I had qualms going there and had seriously considered ditching the whole plan since the trip was scheduled a month after the infamous Zamboanga siege. But after doing careful research and contacting several people before actually going there, I was all the more convinced to give this place a chance. And I'm glad I did. Tawi-Tawi is the fulfillment of a dream, the final destination of my 80 Before 30 challenge.

Far from what we often see in the nightly news, at least in the capital town of Tawi-Tawi, I saw a market bustling with people trading their goods, a place with some breathtaking views and with unspoiled beaches that really wowed me, and I met some friendly people who introduced to us their unique culture, and extended much of their help for us to easily explore their town. 

One of my favorite Tawi- Tawi experiences was when we got to the summit of the imposing Bud Bongao. The trek wasn't exactly a walk in the park due to heavy downpour days before we arrived, but the view from there made the painful hike totally worth it. Considered a sacred Muslim burial site, locals there believe that if they make the sacrifice of hiking  this mystic mountain and saying their prayers, their wishes will be granted. If their wishes do come true, it's part of the tradition to go back and hike again as an expression of gratitude. I did utter a wish hoping it will come true, and hoping to see this place again in the future.

More of my stories about Tawi-Tawi soon. 

Bongao Peak 

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 23. The Waterfalls in Iligan City

One of the things I like best about backpacking Pilipinas is the chance to fulfill some of my childhood wishes. I remember in grade school, I've always wanted to visit Banaue Rice Terraces, San Juanico Bridge,  Fort Santiago, Zamboanga, Magellan's Cross in Cebu, tarsiers in Bohol, and to see the  stunning Maria Cristina Falls. I had the chance to see all these wonderful sites while completing my 80 Before 30 challenge, and in each place I visited, I learned a bit more. 

I knew that Maria Cristina Falls is located in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, but I didn't know (until my visit there) that this city is also home to about 22 other waterfalls. Known as the City of Majestic Waterfalls because of the many waterfalls located within its area, Iligan is drawing in many tourists  because of these stunning cascades. Other famous waterfalls in the city are: Tinago Falls, Limunsudan Falls, Mimbalut Falls, Abaga Falls, and Dodiongan Falls.

I have been to only two waterfalls in Iligan -- Maria Cristina and Tinago, and I hope to see the rest in the future.

Full blog about Iligan City will be posted here soon.  

Tinago Falls

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 22. Manila

Noisy, crowded, and with a tiny respectable breathing space, I find something oddly cathartic living in this city with million other people. This place throbs with human spirit -- in the busy metroway, roads, and even along the narrowest alleys, people thrives with grit for survival. In a place where more than half of the population lives below poverty level, there is very little room to be meek and still. It is a must to move and do something to eke out a living; to be courageous to live well for another day. And this constant human movement and energy around me makes me long for and appreciate silence and solitude a little bit more. 

But more than the many stories of poverty and survival, Manila is a great place to explore (even on foot). As the capital city and one of the oldest cities in the country, Manila is home to many historical landmarks (Malacanang Palace, Fort Santiago, Intramuros), churches (San Agustin Church, Manila Cathedral, San Sebastain Church, Malate Church, Binondo Church,  Quiapo Church), museums (National Museum, Museo Pambata) and parks (Rizal Park, Paco Park). And one of my favorite things to do in Manila is to sit by the bay waiting for the unobstructed and stunning sunset at Manila Bay while eating kwek kwek or a cup of taho. 

Oh yes, there's a lot to see and do in Manila. Check it here.  

The Manila Metropolitan Theater

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 21. Ilocos Norte

Bangui windmills, Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, Paoay Church or Church of Saint Augustine (A UNESCO World Heritage Site), Pagudpud beaches, Patapat Viaduct, St. William Cathedral (a National Cultural Treasure), the Sinking Bell Tower, La Paz Sand Dunes, Malacanang of the North, Paoay Lake, Cape Bojeador, Kaibigan Falls, and Museo Ilocos Norte.  These are some of the famous attractions around Ilocos Norte.

Many tourists who are up for a complete vacation have this province included in their list of places to visit. Ilocos Norte has it all -- history, churches, food, sea, sights, heritage, landmarks, waterfalls. And these are some of the reasons why I keep coming back to this province. There seems to be always something to look forward to in every trip up there. I'm thinking of surfing the waves of Pugudpud as a new reason to visit Ilocos Norte again, and, ummm, the really cool afternoon sea breeze while enjoying the panoramic view from Cape Bojeador.

For travel guide to Ilocos Norte, click here.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

2013 In Review: My Best Travel Year

Before moving forward to the new year, allow me to look back at and honor all the amazing travels I had for 2013.

What a year that was: 

1 year. 12 months. 28 cities. 54 provinces.  

Two biggest accomplishments:

1. Completing the 80 Before 30 Challenge 

2. BookSail (Book drive for the children in Palumbanes Island)

Massive thank you to everyone who joined me in this incredible journey around the Philippines. Special thank you to Anchi for braving the odds traveling with me in Mindanao. I wouldn't have made it all without you. Thank you!

♥♥♥

Highlights of 2013

January 

 Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Isabela (Ilagan City, Santiago City), Quirino, Cagayan (Tuguegarao City), Apayao, Ilocos Norte (Laoag City), Ilocos Sur (Vigan City), Abra, La Union, Pangasinan, Tarlac (Tarlac City), Pampanga

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 20. Dapitan City

It only took a day for me to fall in love with this dreamy and historic city in Zamboanga del Norte. Also called the Shrine City of the Philippines, Dapitan needs no further introduction to many of us since it has been prominently referenced to in our history classes as the place where our National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, took his four years of productive exile during the Spanish period. 

After retracing his steps and learning how he had wonderfully spent his exile years there, I have come to fully appreciate the works of our national hero. Dapitan echoes a lot of memories about him and the dose of historic nostalgia blended with a pocketful of beautiful spots made my stay in this city unforgettable.

Some places not to be missed when in Dapitan are: Rizal's House, Dakak Park and Beach Resort, Dapitan Bay, St. James Church, city plaza, Punto Del Desembarco de Rizal, Relief Map of Mindanao, Goria de Dapitan, Dampa Restaurant, Aliguay Island, Dapitan City Hall.

My full blog about Dapitan will be posted here soon. :)

House of Dr. Jose Rizal In Dapitan

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 19.Anawangin and Nagsasa Coves

The summer breeze is blowing somewhere near and the summer sunshine is already making its presence felt.  For many of us, the beach season comes right after the mad holiday season, and some of us are itching to feel the sand on our feet and the salt on our skin. 

If you're looking for perfect family and barkada getaways near Manila, Anawangin and Nagsasa Coves in Zambales are awesome picks. With its white sand beach, a scenic river and mountain view,  crystal clear waters, and great setting for sunrise and sunset, these two famous coves simply took my breath away when we first met. Dirt cheap budget, perfect place to commune with nature, and a company of great friends, these are some of my camping experiences which stuck with me for a long time. I still consider these trips my favorite weekends while traveling the Philippines. 

With the fame it has been enjoying for the past years, it's no surprise that these two coves are heavily packed with visitors during summer. I appeal to those planning a trip there to not leave any trash, especially in the beach area. Bring a trash bag and dispose it properly. Better yet, take it home with you.

More of my stories about Anawangin here and Nagsasa here. 

At Nagsasa Cove

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 18. Sagada

Sagada is on my list of must-revisit places after my 80 Before 30 challenge. It's one of those places that has a great recall and repeat value not only because I've had an incredible time when I went there in 2009, but because I feel there's still a lot that I need to see and do there.  And of course... still a lot of food I must try and go back for.

What do I recall most about Sagada... the extreme (and life-threatening) spelunking experience from Lumiang Cave (with the hanging coffins) to Sumaguing Cave, the crisp and cold temperature while witnessing the sunrise at Kiltepan Tower and sunset at Lake Danum, the delightful mountain foods, the raging and massive Bomod-ok Falls, the strenuous but fulfilling hike along Banga-an rice fields, and the friends I've met during the trip (who I still travel with until now). Ahhh, memories of Sagada make me want to go back there very soon, hopefully this year. :)

More of my adventures in Sagada here...

While waiting for sunset at Lake Danum

Top 30 Favorite Spots in the Philippines: 17.Panglao Island

Among the many spots I love in Bohol is this amazing island that's home to some of the best beaches in the country -- Panglao Island. Located southwest of the island of Bohol and east of Cebu, and about 1 hour land drive from Tagbilaran City, Panglao is a favorite travel destination for those gunning for a beach retreat after a day touring the countryside of Bohol. Although the beaches get crowded during peak season, you may still find some peace and quiet in most time of the year in this island. With its white sand beaches, beautiful sunset, clear blue sea, and gentle people, Panglao is definitely a must-visit.

While in Panglao, you may want to rent a motorcycle and tour the island. Some spots worth seeing are: Bohol Bee Farm (they sell organic products and would even teach you a bit about farming), Dauis Church (home to a miraculous spring that's believed to have healing powers. As of today, Dauis Church may be under repair due to the damage brought by the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that struck the island last October 15, 2013), Hinagdanan Cave (I liked the clear, cold, and large lagoon inside), Panglao Watch Tower ( a Spanish-era structure that's still standing today a few meters from Panglao Church and near the shore) and the Shell Museum (an extensive collection of sea shells from Bohol and other parts of the country.) Another must-try is diving in the underwater garden of the nearby island, Balicasag.

For more details, check out my posts about Panglao Island here.

Sunset at Bohol Beach Club, Panglao Island