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Philippines. |
Top Philippines Attractions
The first time you visit the Philippines, or any
new destination, the question asked isn’t usually what attractions
should be scene but what attraction to see first, what to expect,
how to get there, and how much time is needed. We’ve provided
tips, advice, and other information about the top tourist attractions
in the Philippines to help with your itinerary planning.
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The Chocolate Hills
The
Chocolate Hills are simply a mystery. Legend says that the hills
were made when two giants threw stones and sand at each other in
a fight. When they were finally through fighting, they became friends
and left the island, but left behind the mess they made. Others
believe that the hills are exposed coral formations weathered from
thousands of years. Whatever the history, the 1,200 hills in Bohol
are magnificent to see—completely uniform in size and shape.
They stand about 30-50 meters high, covered in grass, but at the
end of the dry season, turn chocolate color. You can climb 214 steps
to an observation hill near the complex to view the immensity in
the number of hills.
To get there--Plenty of tours go to the Chocolate Hills. If you
want to go there on your own, get to Tagbilaran, then take a bus
terminal in Dao and catch a bus to Carmen. Ask the driver to drop
you off at the Chocolate Hills complex, you will then take a 2.5
or so mile walk to the complex. If you are coming from Tubigon,
a few buses will go to Carmen daily.
There are very few places to stay in the Chocolate Hills, so you
should make this a day trip.
Viewing the hills is free.
More Information www.bohol.ph
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Casa Manila
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Address
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General Luna St. Intramuros Manila |
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Hours
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Open Daily: 9-6 |
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As you will probably be shopping in the barrio of San Luis, make sure to stop
at the Casa Manila for a fantastic make-believe flashback. This
house is a re-creation of a 19th-century Spanish patrician’s
three-story domicile. It stops short of nothing to make you feel
as if you were living t
here during this period of time. Enjoy the
beautiful carriage entrance, the landscaped inner courtyard, and
the spacious, grand stairway seen only in movies. As you make your
way upstairs, you will view the incredible spread of well-kept furniture
and accessories from the 1800s. Experience this complete treasure
in the city of Manila, a city of industry and fast-pace. One of
the main tourist attractions in Manila, the tourists love it because
of its Asian inspired look and old-time feel. Open daily, make this
a stop along your shopping route for a step back into the past.
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Coconut Palace
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Address
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Roxas Blvd. in Cultural Center Complex Manila |
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Phone
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(632) 633-87-42 to 45 |
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Website
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www.manosa.com |
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For a mere $10 million dollars, the Coconut Palace is a project built for
Pope John Paul’s visit in 1981 thought up by former first
lady Imelda Marcos. This house is 70% constructed from parts of
the coconut tree. This structure is a phenomenon and unbelievable
in size. Located in the Cultural Center, it faces beautiful Manila
bay. It contains seven suites (after the lucky number 7) and is
named and decorated after a different region in the country. The
Pangasinan Room, features pineapple fiber bedcovers and pearl table
sets. When celebrities visit Manila, many will often stay in one
of the grandiose suites. You must make reservations to enter, so
be sure to call ahead. If you do not want to enter the Coconut Palace,
you can walk through the Cultural Center and view it from the outside.
It is a remarkable architectural feat.
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Paco Park
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Address
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General Luna Sts. Paco Manila |
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Hours
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Open Daily: 8-5 |
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If
you want a break from all your shopping, visiting, sight-seeing,
head over to Paco Park for a relaxing afternoon. Bring a book or
wander around to view all of the visual wonders this park has to
offer. The park is circular, covered in moss and stone with a beautiful,
small chapel right in the middle. Originally a cemetery for the
Spanish aristocrats, it was converted to a park in 1966. No one
has been buried here si
nce 1912. If you are visiting on a Friday,
attend the free concerts held in Paco at 6pm. What a peaceful way
to spend the start of a Friday night! Listen to locals sing and
dance in a tranquil setting. The park is open daily from 8-5, so
bring over your lunch and sit and just people watch.
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Cebu Philippines
The oldest city in the country, Cebu is noth
ing short of paradise. Enjoy the
first rate, five-star hotels right on the ocean and listen to the
waves crash against the shore. The many casinos will delight the
gambler in you; the numerous shopping malls will delight the shopper
in you. The malls offer the biggest bargains you will find—shoes,
baskets, crafts, shirts, you name it. You can even visit Magellan’s
Cross and the Basilica Minore del Santo Nina, the country’s
oldest religious relic. A must is a stop at Colon Street located
in the downtown area of Cebu. This street was originally built by
the Spaniards, but now boasts malls, movie houses, restaurants,
and businesses.
Also, you will definitely enjoy the white sandy beaches that are
the perfect temperature year round. Work on that tan in this tropical
paradise.
With all the coral and tropical fish surrounding the island, Cebu
is one of the best diving spots in the country. If diving is not
your thing, try snorkeling. Plenty of underwater life awaits.
More Information: www.itravelphilippines.com
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Philippines Travel Guides
Frommer's Philippines
Lonely Planet Philippines
Let's Go Philippines
Fodors Philippines
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