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Tambayan ng mga Chicx at Tsonx => General Discussion => Travel and Leisure => Topic started by: lovemarie on November 13, 2014, 08:15:38 PM
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Author: joan lopez-flores
Secluded and relaxing spots for those who want to venture out on their own.
Stuck in a rut, worn out, or craving some “me” time? Try traveling solo—just you and your trusty backpack. Take a break and get away for a few days. See and experience things on your own.
From quaint and quiet towns to secluded and scenic beaches, there are a host of Philippine destinations that you can explore all by yourself. Here are our top five picks for those seeking solitude and relaxation.
1. Batanes
Batanes is what dream destinations are made of, if you’re eyeing a countryside escape. It’s remote—with 10 tiny islands at the northernmost tip of the Philippines. It’s quiet—with small tight-knit communities and a near-zero crime rate. It’s laidback—with natives staying in cogon-thatched stone houses, enjoying quaint lifestyles.
And of course, it’s picturesque. Setting foot on this province feels much like stepping into a scene from a postcard, with its dramatic landscape of gently rolling hills, steep cliffs and deep canyons.
Besides soaking in the scenery, you can wind down at one of Batanes’ pristine beaches, ride a bike through the fields and hills (where cows graze freely!), or rent a car to visit lighthouses, old churches and houses, and war memorials. The best part: You don’t have to worry about your stuff being stolen or of locals exploiting tourists. The native Ivatans are renowned for their hospitality and honesty.
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Basco Lighthouse, Batanes, Philippines
2. Sagada
Sagada has been an all-time favorite among backpackers. Yes, it’s a long and bumpy (and for some, nerve-wracking) ride to this little town in Mountain Province. But Sagada makes it up to you. And we’re not just talking about its cool breeze, quaint atmosphere and tranquil scenery. You’ll also find solace in an array of cozy and breathtaking attractions.
The Rock Inn and Café lets guests pick oranges from its orchard—which can be surprisingly therapeutic. You can also spend a quiet afternoon at Gaia Café and Crafts, with a view of rice terraces and a book keeping you company. Fancy some comfort food? Take a leisurely walk to the Sagada Lemon Pie House, Strawberry Café or Yoghurt House.
Trekking is not as tiring in Sagada (probably because you’ll find yourself stopping in your tracks every now and then just to take in the sights). Plus, this is your ticket to Kiltepan Viewpoint, the best spot to catch the sun rise.
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Rice fields, Sagada, The Philippines
3. El Nido
Picturing the sun, sand and sea as your backdrop? Then escape to El Nido.
With 45 islands, this Palawan oasis does not run out of ways to make you feel serene and empowered. So take a soothing dip in its crystal-clear lagoons. Marvel at the calming sight of fish swimming past you. Lounge on quiet white-sand beaches. Sit back on a boat and gaze at the limestone cliffs towering above you. And paddle across still waters and search for coral gardens.
The most affordable route to experiencing all this is via El Nido’s island-hopping tours. You can easily book two or more tours (trust us, one is never enough) with travel companies or your hotel. Solo travelers are usually grouped with other tourists, so you won’t have to pay extra.
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El Nido bay and Cadlao island, Palawan, Philippines
4. Bantayan Island
Tucked in the northern tip of Cebu isBantayan Island. This charming hideaway’s main draw is its wide sandbars—stretches of powdery white sand that seem to go on forever. For most of the year, the beaches are actually crowd-free. And the only noise you’ll hear is of the waves rushing to the shore. So whether you’re embracing your inner beach bum or simply gazing at the stars, you can take as much “me” time as you want.
The rest of the island is just as peaceful, taking on a slow and mellow pace. You can explore the backcountry on two wheels by renting a bicycle or motorcycle. If you can spot one of its rustic mom-and-pop cafés amid the small wooden houses and tall coconut trees that line its roads, do stop by.
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Ogtong cave with clearn blue water on Bantayan Island, Cebu, Philippines
5. Davao
A hub and haven in Mindanao, Davaomakes it to our list for the variety of options the province lays out. There’s a place to meditate—the hilltop Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague—and a place to unwind—Jack’s Ridge, a watchtower-turned-resort offering skyline and gulf views. You can also wander around People’s Park, tour the serene gardens at Eden Nature Park and explore an orchid farm.
And then you have Samal Island. Just a boat ride away from Davao City, this coastal paradise boasts unspoiled white beaches—perfect for a lazy day under the sun. The Coral Garden, Starfish Island, Pearl Farm Beach Resort and Vanishing Island are big hits as well.
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Panoramic views of the tropical island of the Philippines. Davao
It doesn’t matter where you go, traveling solo can be enlightening, relaxing and rewarding. So don’t be afraid to step out on your own and go places!
Source:
www.skyscanner.com.ph
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Among these places, Davao palang ang nabisita ko. Actually it has been my new home for the past 2 years na. First 27 years of my life ay sa Metro Manila ako but I got to love it here. Nung bago palang kami dito ni misis, nilibot talaga namin ang mga magagandang tourist destinations. Ang isang malaking plus factor pa is maraming destinations na abot kaya sa budget.
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Among these places, Davao palang ang nabisita ko. Actually it has been my new home for the past 2 years na. First 27 years of my life ay sa Metro Manila ako but I got to love it here. Nung bago palang kami dito ni misis, nilibot talaga namin ang mga magagandang tourist destinations. Ang isang malaking plus factor pa is maraming destinations na abot kaya sa budget.
Nice share sir monde ah...budget friendly pala mamasyal sa Davao...i wish i can visit there the soonest...thanks!