Philippines

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary: Philippines

March 16, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary wetlands in the Philippines

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary: Philippines

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary is located on Olango Island in The Philippines. How amazing this sanctuary is! What a fun place to visit! Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary has been of International importance since 1994. It was included on the Ramsar List of Wetlands of international Importance on July 1, 1994. It is the first wetland to make International importance in the Philippines. This makes it a major destination for Birders. It truly is a haven for migratory birds. These birds are making their amazing journeys back from their nesting grounds. Migration begins from their breeding home in the far North. Many come from places like Siberia, Northern China, and Japan. When they begin to anticipate the lack of food and the onset of severe weather, they begin their yearly journey. It has become a major re-fueling stop for many on their way to Australia and New Zealand. The flight home is a long flight and they use Olango Island as a welcome stop, to renew strength for the miles yet remaining. It is Bird Heaven! It is a paradise for Migratory Birds.

Olango Island is also the winter home to species who live in colder regions of the world. Their greatest need is a place to call home during this time of severe weather and scarcity of food. Not all the birds continue their migration, as some prefer to winter in the beautiful and tropical Olango Island. It is their home, away from home.

There are two times during the year that you can see these beautiful migratory birds on Olango Island. The first being from July till November when they make the Southward Migration. Again, in late February until May, they can be seen as they make the Northward Migration. It is then, that these beautiful birds return home to their breeding grounds. This, is an awesome time to book a birding tour.

So which birds are you most likely to see? You can never tell what you will see, but among the most regular of guests are the Chinese Egrets, Asiatic Dowitcherrs, and Eurasian Curlews. Not to be forgotten are the Plovers, The Sandpipers, Black-tailed Godwit, and the beautiful Red Knot. These are large and beautiful birds. What a delight to watch them in their home, away from home!

The Chinese Egret breeds on small islands off the coasts of far Eastern Russia, North Korea, South Korea and Mainland China. It is a tall species with long legs and beautiful white feathers. During the long severe winters of the North, The Chinese Egret winters in The Philippines and other Asian areas. It is believed that over 50% of these beautiful Migratory Birds winter on Olango Island. How amazing it is to watch them! They are also extremely friendly and usually not afraid of humans. What is there not to love about the Chinese Egret?

Among the regulars is the beautiful Sandpipers. Snipes, Eurasian Curlews and the Asiatic Dowitcherrs . These migratory birds are becoming threatened and make their winter home on Olango Island. These beautiful regulars on the island are certain to delight you. Most of this group are in the brown color range and have stripes with a little white. Feel free to check out this website for beautiful photo’s of many of the Migratory Birds that winter throughout Asia, especially in the Philippines. The photography is amazing!

http://www.manilaoldtimer.net/philippinebirds/IOC06Snipes.html

There are several companies that offer Birding Tours. Here are three major Tour Companies that I know of, who are well-known. For your convenience they are listed below. This is not a recommendation of services. They are simply listed in most major Birding Journals. If you love birds, then I recommend that this be the year that you visit the Philippines. Birding is fun! Birding is exciting. The Philippines is a birders paradise. What are you waiting for? Book your tour today! See you on Olango Island.

http://www.birdingphilippines.com/

http://www.birdguidingphilippines.com/

http://www.rockjumperbirding.com/tours/destinations/the-philippines?crumb=Asia

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Philippine Islands: An Amazing Journey

March 16, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

"Let The Journey Begin" — “Let The Journey Begin”

Philippine Islands: An Amazing Journey

Philippine Islands, there are 7,107 to be exact, and they are waiting for you to explore them all. Each is different, but each are ready to welcome you. The monsoon season ended in December and this is an awesome time to make that journey of a life time.

The island of Boracay, Aklan is a wonderful island. If you love the beach, you do not want to miss this island. The white soft sand is just like powder. No need for flip flops here, as the sand feels awesome between your toes. Island hopping and water sports are only some of the events that can fill your days. Discover the secrets of the island and make new friends. Adventure is waiting on Boracay, Aklan.

El Nido and Taytay, Palawan are another island waiting for you to discover it’s richness. This is perhaps one of the most intriguing islands and adventure is everywhere. It’s many limestone cliffs and lagoons are the perfect spot for the backpacker or the snorkeler. You can rent a villa on stilts right on the beach, or find your hide-a-way among the cliffs. El Nido is amazing!

Are you one who likes close encounters with nature? Then Oslob, Cebu Philippine Islands is your destination. There you can swim with the sharks each morning. Now that is a close encounter! What an experience to swim with these awesome giants of the sea. Can you imagine how amazing this encounter will be? What an experience! What memories await! When your done, you can journey on to Tumalog Waterfalls. There you can have a relaxing dip. For those who love to dive, Moalboal is an awesome diving location. Moalboal is a divers dream!

Panglao Island is the beach bums paradise. Dolphin watching is a major event here. The island is laid back and it is a snorkelers delight. Pamilacan Island is for the beach bum who wants to go first class. This is some of the best snorkeling in the world. Bohol is a beach bums paradise, so relax and enjoy another jewel in the Philippine Islands.

On the Island of Garden City, Samal, and Davao del Norte luxury is waiting at every turn. The Pearl Farm Luxury Resort is only one of the islands major draws. Take time to discover Hagimit Falls, one of natures breathtaking experiences. Experience all the many underwater shapes and colors of Talikud Island’s coral Garden Marine Park. Here you will see magnificent coral and endless species of fish. Truly this is one of the top Marine Parks in the world. In Monfort, you can visit the Monfort Bat Sanctuary. The sanctuary is the home to thousands of Fruit Bats. What an unique experience is waiting for you in Monfort.

Camiguin Island perhaps has one of the most fantastic beaches. This beach is here one moment and then gone the next. It is really a sandbar and it makes it appearance only during low tide. Camiguin is an island filled with mystery and delightful secrets. There are both hot and cold springs, gorgeous waterfalls, and even an underwater cemetery. Here you will find ruins of an earlier time and the secrets of it’s ancient volcanoes. Be sure to check out all the fabulous snacks as you loop around this fantastic island.

These are only 6 out of all the many islands that make up the Philippine Islands. You still have 7, 101 more to discover. Now is the ideal time for a beach getaway and The Philippine Islands are ready to welcome you. Grab your passport and pack your bag! Make this the year you start your journey around the Philippine Islands.

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Philippine Islands: An Amazing Journey

Wild Mushrooms Found In The Philippines

February 28, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Wild Mushrooms found on the small island Homonhon in the Philippines

Wild Mushrooms Found In The Tropics

Wild mushrooms are really everywhere in the Philippines and many other places of the world. The Philippines is highly blessed with several varieties of edible mushrooms. When searching for them, do take time to do your homework before you pick. There are non-edible mushrooms and they can be poisonous. Never assume, do your research before you hit the trail. Even when you pick, if you are new to mushroom picking, show your bounty to an experienced picker for identification. If you pick safely, there are many mushrooms out there that are edible and extremely good for you.

Wild mushrooms are an edible fungi and there are many species throughout the world. World wide, it is estimated that there are over 140,000 different species of wild mushrooms. The scientific world is only familiar with maybe 10% of these. Currently, Western Scientists are studying about 100 of these wild mushrooms. Wild mushrooms have many potential health benefits and they are hoping to capture that information for the medical community. In the East, medicine has recognized the benefits of wild mushrooms for centuries. Eastern practitioners believe that mushrooms in general can lower cholesterol in the body. They use wild mushrooms to ward off and fight breast cancer and prostate cancer, two major medical challenges of our time. Wild mushrooms also seem to help in the control of diabetes. Patients with anemia have had excellent results in using wild mushrooms in their diet. Wild mushrooms are an excellent source of iron and over 90% of this iron the body absorbs. Iron is essential in the formation of red blood cells. This keeps people healthy and able to have a full life.

Next time you travel in the Philippines, take time to discover the many different mushrooms and learn how to use them. Mushroom picking is an adventure! Learning about the different wild fungi and herbs unlocks the secrets to good health. Take time to unlock the many secrets of the wild mushroom. Make this the year, you discover the Philippines.

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Pineapple Fields In Southern Philippines

February 11, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Pineapple fields in the warm rolling hills of Southern Philippines

Pineapple: The Miracle Plant

Pineapple is a fruit that flourishes in the warm tropical hills of Southern Philippines. It is found throughout the tropical and subtropical world. Pineapple is an easy plant to grow. Grow it either in the ground or in very large containers. If you have a good Organic Pineapple, you can cultivate it from cutting off the crown of the fruit. The new cutting is often kept in water and when it starts to grow, it is then planted. After you plant it, you may get flowers in 20-24 months. It is not a fast process! About 6 months after you get flowers, the pineapple will fruit. Pineapple is best if left on the vine to ripen, as it does not ripen after it is harvested. Once harvested, it only keeps a couple of days if not refrigerated. If refrigerated you may get 5-7 days max.

Pineapples are eaten in many different ways in differents cuisines. It is awesome fresh, juiced, and preserved. I love to cook with it. I seldom can pineapple, but dried pineapple is awesome and keeps during the off-season. Drying the pineapple slowly preserves most of the awesome nutrients found in the fruit.

In the Philippines, even the leaves are used. The leaves are processed to make a fiber that is used to make men’s and women’s formal wear . The pina fiber, is a component used in making furniture and wallpaper. Leave it to the Filipinos to use every part of the plant. Just like they use every part of the coconut, there is no waste in the way they use the pineapple. I am always attracted to their ethic on not wasting any part of their crops. They put a lot of effort into finding out how they can use all parts of their major crops.

The amazing pineapple provides 76% percent of your daily manganese needs in just one cup and 131% percent of your vitamin C needs. It is a natural antioxidant and boosts the immune system. It also contains a significant amount of thiamine and vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 helps to stabilize blood sugar. Pineapple juice is rich in potassium. Potassium helps to promote good kidney health. Sufficient potassium in the body works to prevent muscle cramps and soreness.

Juice the stems and make a wonderful meat marinade. The stem of the pineapple is filled with bromelain, which breaks down protein. The fruit, itself, has little bromelain in it. But those woody stems are full of bromelain and are also good to cook with. How versatile this fruit is!

Many believe that the pineapple has an abundance of medical uses as well. While these have not been documented and tested trials by the government, there are some areas that pineapple consumption seems to work wonders in. It is important that you eat fresh pineapple or make your own fresh juice. Preserved juices usually have sugars and preservatives.

In Alternative Medicine pineapple juice is used as an Anti-inflammatory. This enzyme seems to rival NSAIDS and steroids. Combine it with turmeric and it is even more potent. This combination aids in digestion, helps in the healing of bruises, and alleviates arthritis pain. It helps in the healing of tissues and the healing of wounds. Pineapple is also helpful in building strong bones and connective tissues. Pineapple is a natural anticoagulant and is useful in the clotting of blood when used daily. It also helps to prevent bacterial growth in the mouth. A glass of pineapple juice helps to prevent mucus accumulation in the mouth and throat. It produces a healthy cough and clears the lungs. What is there not to like about this fantastic fruit?

Make this the year you leisurely walk through the pineapple fields of the Southern Philippines. Take time to learn how to make a variety of stir-frys, soups, and other tropical delights. Include pineapple and turmeric in your diet daily. Learn to make Pineapple Fritters that are fried in coconut oil. Serve your fritters with eggs with turmeric, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, peppers, and garlic . Garnish with cilantro and avocado! Be sure to eat your garnish! Widen your horizons in the coming year! Discover Pineapple!

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Blue Swimming Crabs: Filipino Delicacy

January 29, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Blue Swimming Crabs: Filipino Delicacy

Blue Swimming Crabs are some of the sweetest crabs available. They also are known by many names. Portumus Pelagicus is the official scientific name, but they are known as the flower crab in most of Asia. In the middle east they are known as the manna crab. Head on over to Australia and they are called sand crabs. Whatever the name, this is an excellent crab for eating! Demand is extremely high world-wide for the Blue Swimming Crabs. Not only are they good to eat, but they are beautiful.

Almost 90% of the market is in the United States. They are considered a delicacy and can be pricey. African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries are also major importers. Australia and New Zealand make up the balance of the importing countries for Blue Swimming Crabs.

The male Crabs are a bright blue with white spots. They are simply gorgeous! The female crab is a duller greenish-brown. She is not nearly as stunning as her male counterpart. Male or female, they are a hot commodity. They spend most of their days buried under the damp sand or mud. Rarely do they come out during daylight or winter. They are excellent swimmers and do not survive long out of the water. At night you will find them swimming in the estuaries, as they search for food and shelter.

So, the next time you are in the Philippines, have a local delicacy for dinner. If you like crab, these are some of the best. So gather your passport and pack your bag. Make this the year you discover the world of the Blue Swimming Crab. A seafood banquet is waiting ….in the Philippines.

For more information on the Philippine Islands and places to go, see our websites:

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Nipa Huts: Traditional Filipino Rural Living

January 27, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Nipa Hut in the Philippines — Traditional Filipino Nipa Hut

Traditional Nipa Huts in the Philippines

Nipa Huts are a living symbol of rural life in the Philippines. It is the home of yesterday that has changed and survived even until today. Nipa Huts or Bahay Kubos are an icon of Philippine rural living. They are built differently in different areas, according to the conditions and circumstances of the area. Nipa Huts are a living Pilipino icon.

There is no real definition of how a Nipa Hut is made, but there are several things that most have in common. The conditions in the Philippine lowlands have led to some basic similarities. Most of these huts are built-in three layers. Depending on whether they are in or near water. Most Nipa huts are built on stilts. Since most of the island has water to deal with, usually the bottom part of the hut allows the water to freely go under the hut. This is true especially near the coast and in boggy areas. There are a few exceptions to this rule in modern times, but it is followed even today in most areas. Only some of the materials have changed. Today, often the stilts are simple concrete cinder blocks rather than the traditional hardwood. Regardless of the materials used, the benefit to this style is protection from floods and also it keeps small animals out of the living area, such as rats.

Above the stilts is the living area or the tagalong. This area is accessed by a ladder. It is built open and is well ventilated to help keep the home cooler and to allow natural light to penetrate the home. They often have bamboo slats for floors, which allow the cool air to come up from the silong. The Philippines is very hot and humid, so the traditional Nipa hut allows for cooling. There may or may not be a ceiling. Often times the ceiling is not built to allow the hot air to rise and leave through the roof.

The roof is usually tall and steeply pitched, creating a space above the living area for the hot air to go. They are built with thatch, a material that is readily available. This gives the hut a cooling effect in the long hot humid summers. These roofs also were the reason many of these small huts survived the ash fall from the Mt. Pinatubo eruption. Many more modern homes succumbed to the weight of the ash and collapsed.

While modern Nipa huts have changed, the design has stayed basically the same. The walls are often built with bamboo rods or mats to allow the house to be cool in the hot summers and warm in the rainy season. They are still built-in a square shape and are left open for light and coolness. The windows are large to help give light and often are held open with a long bamboo rod, to allow for air flow. This is the modern Nipa hut—an icon that has survived and adapted over time.

On your next trip to the Southern Leyte, Philippines, take a trip to the rural areas and see living Filipino history. History is alive in the Philippines, so pack your bag and grab your passport. Make this the year you explore the Southern Leyte, Philippines.

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Yolanda Village Good Bye’s In Tacloban, Philippines

January 18, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Yolanda Village: Saying Goodbye

Yolanda Village grew out of the desperation and determination of 16 million people to survive the worst Typhoon ever recorded. Tacloban and surrounding areas of the Philippines were totally devastated in November 2013 by Super Typhoon Haiyan. Super Typhoon Haiyan is known locally as Super Typhoon Yolanda. Yolanda ripped through the Southern Leyte! She totally destroyed everything in her wake. Villages were flattened. Thousands died and many are still missing. Farmers were left homeless! Coconut plantations had been ripped up. Their life’s work had disappeared over night. The working poor in Tacloban were now, the new city homeless. They had no jobs in sight. Fisherman were not only homeless, but they had no boats. Without boats, they can not fish! Many large operations saw their ships washed up to sit on hills. The area around the ships was a no build zone. People soon built a shanty town in the wake of the ships. Fisherman wanted to be as close to the water as they could get. Shanty towns were erected. Shanty towns quickly became the “new normal.” Yolanda Village was born!

January 2015 and things are changing. The Philippines is on the road to recovery. Now, they are in the rehabilitation and reconstruction stage. Three hundred families are leaving Yolanda Village for their new homes. The government used the aid to purchase building materials and to hire contractors. The people have been doing the sweat equity. New concrete block homes are being built with corrugated roofs. Recovery is always slow, but after only one year, 300 families are saying goodbye to Yolanda Village. Many are thankful for their new permanent home! It is their home! It is the work of their hands! The determination and will to survive made it happen. Others are moving into their temporary homes. They will begin to help build their new permanent homes. This scene is scheduled to be replayed throughout the year of 2015 and beyond. One day there will be no one left in Yolanda Village. All the shanty towns will be gone.

What is happening to these huge ships that call Yolanda Village home? They are being dismantled one by one! The material is being sold as scrap metal and reclaimed lumber. The ships are on their way out! There is a new normal in sight for this southern Leyte region. Tacloban City has seen about 50% of their essential services and business restored. People,once again, have running water and electricity. Farmers are clearing their lands of the giant fallen coconut trees and planting rice. They only make about 50% of what they did with their plantations, but it is money coming in. Many work on the side elsewhere, as they try to pay off the loans made against last years failed coconut harvest. Many fishermen still have no boats, but many of them now have homes. Some fisherman are back on the water, due to donated boats. All are thankful for what 2014 brought. It is yet another step toward recovery.

The year 2015 is all about the hope and determination of 16 million people who have made the choice to move forward. It is a new day! With the aid coming into the country, more building materials will be bought. Farmers will clear fields and replant. Fishing boats will once again be at work. The residents of Yolanda Village are on their way home! Plantation owners are becoming rice farmers! The fisherman dream of a day when they can once again fish. This is the New Norm in the Southern Leyte. It is one of hope! It is one of progress!

https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/423651/philippines-to-spend-nearly-4bn-rebuilding-after-haiyan

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Peter’s Dive Resort Philippines

January 17, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Peter’s Dive Resort Philippines

Peter’s Dive Resort has welcomed the divers of the world since it opened in 2000. It’s Southern Leyte location makes it easy to explore the many marine sanctuaries surrounding Leyte, Philippines. In Leyte you will find world-class diving in pristine waters. The reefs are a mixture of both hard and soft corals of every color imaginable. These beautiful virgin reefs are home to over 2,000 species of fish. Here you will discover the Pygmy Seahorse and perhaps even spot a Whale Shark, as it is feeding in Sogod Bay. Whale Sharks are usually spotted from October to May. The rich plankton provides an excellent feeding ground for these magnificent sea creatures.

Whaleshark 2 is the backbone of Peter’s Dive Resort . It has the reputation of being one of the strongest seaworthy boats in the area. It is extremely spacious and is a convenient wet weather boat. It has a 100% safety record. All dives are accompanied by experienced dive guides. Your comfort and safety are of extreme importance. Whaleshark 3 is a smaller boat and is an excellent back up for the busy times. It also has a 100% safety record.

The service at Peter’s Dive Resort is excellent. Among the many amenities are wi-fi and a safe deposit box that is located in the office. There is a spacious indoor pool, dive Shop, and a well equipped gym. The restaurant is air-conditioned and has a full service cocktail bar. Enjoy the local cuisine of the Philippines. The food is excellent and the fish is fresh! There is nothing like a feast after a dive!

For those who want to get out and explore the island there are motorbikes for hire by the day, including insurance. Peter’s Dive Resort makes all the local arrangements for you, and if you have extra energy but want to stay on site, you will find table tennis and darts in the pool area. For those who come back from the dive a little tired, in-house massages are also available.

There are many different types of accommodations at Peter’s Dive Resort. You can choose houses, cottages, or luxury rooms. No matter what you choose, they are clean and the service is excellent. For those who prefer to save their money for diving, Peter’s Dive Resort is the only resort in the area to offer dormitories for the divers. You will find a description of all the types of accommodations on their website below.

Peter’s Dive Resort accepts USD and EURO foreign currency at their own exchange rate. They also accept most major credit cards. Discounts are offered to those buying 10 dives or more. Divers are given a discount on their room accommodations. Group rates are available. Contact the resort for information on groups. There is a contact form on their website. If you prefer, you can also call or write the resort at the address or phone number below.

http://whaleofadive.com/

Peter’s Dive Resort
Barangay Lungsodaan
6602 Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte
The Philippines
Mobile: +63917-791-0993
+63915-437-7560

Make this the year you discover the Southern Leyte, Philippines. Peter’s Dive Resort is an excellent choice for the diver and the snorkeler alike. There are even classes for those desiring to get Padi Certification. For other information on the area, see our website at Exploretraveler.com.

Pasay City Manila Philippines

January 5, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Pasay City Manila Philippines

Pasay City is one of the urban cities that make up Metro Manila, Philippines. Manila is the capital of the Philippine Islands. Pasay is a city of Art and Culture. Culture is alive in the streets of Pasay! The old is new and vibrate. It is alive in 2015.

Pasay is well-known for its tourist and entertainment attractions. The Manila Film Center and the Coconut Palace are two major attractions. The palace is constructed in the shape of an octagon. The roof is in the traditional shape of a Filipino salakot or hat. It is the home of the current Vice President. What a beautiful house to call home! The palace is extravagant! It is awesome! It is Filipino!

The coconut is celebrated as the ultimate “Tree of Life.” Every part of the coconut is used by the Filipino people. The coconut’s roots, trunk, bark, fruit, flower, and shell are all used in the Philippines. The coconut is indeed a life-giving tree. The old adage: Waste not, want not comes to mind. Certainly the Filipino people make wise use of this resource. Nothing is wasted! The coconut is delicious! It is nourishing! It is useful in building. Houses are made from its trunk. Jewelry is made from the seeds. The coconut is an awesome resource. It is used wisely! What a reason to celebrate!

Another main attraction of the area is Tanghalang Francisco Balagtas. It was formally called the Folk Arts Theater. Like most of the major attractions of the city, you will find this amazing theater on the grounds of the Cultural Center . The World Trade Center Metro Manila is also close by. There is even Star City, a major theme park, at the Center. Star City is fun for the kids of all ages. A major part of the “tourist belt” of Manila is in Pasay City. There is so much to do and see in Pasay. Discover Pasay today! Adventure is waiting!

Pasay City has several major festivals throughout the year. Many of the festivals reflect their deep religious beliefs as a county. On the Feast Day of Sta. Clara, childless couples take to the streets! Businessmen and women gather to dance and give thanks. Politicians, and grateful parents walk and dance as music fills the air. They are showing their thankfulness for all the blessings they have received. A major trait of the Philippine people is their joy and thankfulness. Joy is in the air! Come dance and give thanks!

There is so much to see in Pasay, Philippines. Today is the day! Book your vacation to Pasay, Philippines. Meet some of the most thankful people on earth. See thankfulness and joy in the streets of Pasay this year. It will be a relaxing treat! It’s an exciting adventure! Pack your bag and grab your passport! Today is the day to book that Philippine adventure.

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Lake Kasudsuran Philippines

January 3, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Lake Kasudsuran Philippines

Lake Kasudsuran is on the lovely island of Leyte, Philippines. It is in an area called the Eastern Visayas. How beautiful this area is. The lake is calm and peaceful. The area is serene! It is quiet! The perfect spot to sit and read a book! It is an artist’s canvas! What a lovely place to paint or sketch. It is a writer’s studio! What better place to write! The lake is excellent for swimming and canoes are available for rent. Lake Kasudsuran sits next to the stately Mount Pananguan. What an awesome mountain peak! The area is beautiful! The hiking is awesome! It is close to the city of Ormoc. Ormoc is the largest city in the area by land mass. Ormoc means “Beauty by the Bay.” It is a beautiful ,small ,progressive city. You will find modern accommodations in Ormoc City at reasonable prices. The Lake is 2-3 hours away from Tacloban City. Tacloban City is the largest city in the providence. It is the capital city of the Eastern Visaya’s.

Lake Kasudsuran is an easy walk from Brgy Gaas Ormoc. As you walk through the woods, you will see areas of planted Abaca. What a fantastic view! Miles and miles of Abaca swaying in the tropical breezes. The Abaca plantations are the major source of income for the people of Brgy Gaas. Abaca plantations are beautiful! One of the worst devastations of last years Typhoon Haiyan was the ruin of many major Abaca plantations. Abaca or Hemp is indigenous to the Philippines. The warm and wet climate is excellent for its cultivation. The Abaca plant is a variety of the Banana plant that cannot be eaten. This plant has beautiful non-eddible fruit! Hemp, as we call it, is used in many products. Out of this humble plant we get specialty papers, like tea bags and meat casings. Many of the home furnishings are made with hemp or Abaca. Many sofas and dining tables have this fiber mixed in. Hemp also is a excellent natural fabric for clothing. It is used in the hot tropical climates. Hemp is a miracle plant! It is also used in the production of some medicines. Hemp milk is nutritious and delicious. Hemp or Abaca is the backbone of this region.

There are many other things to do while in Ormoc. Besides Lake Kasudsuran, there are two other lakes in the city. Each lake has an adventure waiting! There is awesome swimming! Canoeing and Kayaking are fantastic. The hiking is fabulous at Alto Peak. This is the highest mountain in the Eastern Visayas. It is a favorite mountain climb. It is an excellent climb for beginning climbers.

While in Ormoc, be sure to walk across the city’s oldest bridge. The “Bridge of the Queen” dates back to the time of Spanish rule. It is one of a kind! The architecture is beautiful. It is ornate! Located at the end of the bridge is a small street market. It is one of the best in the area. It is local! It is fun! Indulge in some of the favorite street foods of the area! The cuisine is fabulous! The market atmosphere is alive and joyous! The people are friendly! The shops have some of the best souvenirs in the area. The prices are reasonable. Most sellers speak Spanish and English. Whats not to like about the market?

In the port area of Ormoc are three of the cities major landmarks. Plan to see the City Superdome , the Veterans Park, and the Centennial Marker. While in the city, the easiest way to travel is by motor. These are small pedicabs. They are fun! They are unique! They are helping to rebuild the Philippines! Be a part of the solution! Enjoy the ride! See the sights! Enjoy Ormoc today!

All these things make Lake Kasudsuran and Ormoc the perfect destination for your next vacation. Adventure awaits in the Philippines! So what are you waiting for? Now is the time! Today is the day! Pack your bag and grab your passport! Make this the year you visit the Philippines! Book your Philippine vacation today. See you there!

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