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Welcome to the Philippines, where we are not only known for our hospitality but also our natural attractions. Mt.Mayon is the perfect cone shaped active volcano in Albay and Boracay, located in the small island in the province of Aklan, is one of the most famous beach in the country for years on end.
But why don't we travel to its neighboring regional provinces? Tara na sa Region 4-B! (Let's go to Region 4-B!)
~ Occidental Mindoro ~
Apo Reef (source)
The beautiful Apo Reef National Marine Park is acclaimed as Asia's largest atoll-like reef and as a diving mecca in the Philippines. It seconds the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, in terms of size. The Apo Reef is located 20 miles west of Mindoro proper, with a narrow channel running east to west, dividing this reef into two lagoon systems is the north and south. This marina wonderland is a 34-kilometer ecosystem for more than 350 marine species like sharks, sea hawks, manta rays, stingrays, and other tropical fishes and invertebrates. Along with the fishes and other creatures, the clean waters, fine white sand and numerous coral are clearly visible once you take the plunge into this sublime natural attraction.
2. Ambulong Island in San Jose
Ambulong Island (source)
Ambulong is a 3,000-hectare island and is one of the three beautiful islands found in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. This beautiful paradise is known for its white sand beaches, cliffs along pillars jutting out of the water and underwater caves.
Coming from the local word, "bulong" that means medicine, the island is known for being an "island of healing." Local tourism authorities are intending to push towards medical tourism. On the other hand, there are also coves that are abundant with coral gardens and tropical fish. There is a fisherman’s village is located at the sheltered side of the island.
Ambulong island is a jump-off point to some of the dive spots in the area (i.e. Ilin Point, Baniaga Reef, Apo Reef, Ambulong Bank, Manadi Island, etc.). This dive sites are about an hour away by pumpboat from the Caminawit Port.
~ Oriental Mindoro ~
3. Mt. Halcon in Baco
Mt. Halcon (source)
With the astounding height of 8,488 feet above sea level, Mt. Halcon is considered to be the third highest peak in the country. It is a favorite destination for nature tripping and mountain climbing. It is accessible in two hours, by taking a jeepney to Baco, the jump-off point. Aside from being one of the tallest peaks, mountaineers take delight in the challenge because Mt. Halcon is considered as the most elusive mountain as well. Sources also say that it is virtually impossible to climb, and this makes it even more appealing to mountaineers and mountain-climbing enthusiasts.
4. Alibatan Island in Baco
Alibatan Island (source)
Also in Baco, Occidental Mindoro, the Alibatan Island is noted for its pristine white sand. It measures up to five hectares. This very natural place serves as the breeding place of seagulls and turtles. Corals and oysters are also abundant around the area.
"Target Island," the place is also called for the reason of the Americans who stayed in San Jose used this place for bombing practices in 1946. In terms of accesibility, Alibatan island can be reached in an hour through a motorized banca from the market square.
~ Marinduque ~
5. Palad Sandbar, Maniyawa Island
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| Palad Sandbar (source) Disclaimer: Beach umbrella is optional Would you believe that this long strip of sand surrounded by cool, blueish green, and crystal clear waters can only show itself twice in a day? Yep. The whole Palad Sandbar only appears every low tide: morning, 5 a.m. and 6 a.m and afternoon, 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. If not exactly, then most likely around these times. The sand has a mixture of crushed corals and small rocks, but the view and the breeze of the open seas make up for the roughness of some areas of the sandbar. This is where people usually dive around during high tide. Truly beautiful, freeing, and relaxing!6. Ungab Rock Formation, Mongpong Island
Ungab Rock Formation (source)
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Found in Ungab Beach, this rock formation about a 100 feet above the waters, is a natural bridge. There are no resorts, but there are small cottages with flexible prices. You can also pitch your own tents and just be part of nature and the tightly knit community of Mongpong. Swimming and snorkeling are also allowed. They might not have first class or high-end facilities but their hospitality and honesty are!
~ Romblon ~
7. Mainit Falls
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| Mainit Falls (source) |
Mainit Falls earned its name because of the waters temperature. That's right! Mainit is warm or hot in English. It is a three-tiered cascade that is ideal for bathing as it forms three deep pools. Because the area is secluded and underdeveloped, tourists are advised to bring their own food, drinking water, and gear.
8. Catingas River
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| Catingas River (source) |
Known for its enchanting vistas, the world's smallest bat, the endagered wild cat (Singalong), and the haardest wood (Mancogo/ Iron Wood) are also found in the mountains of the Catingas River. It is a natural swimming pool, known for being the second cleanest inland water in region 4-B. The water is clean, clear, odorless, tasteless and ever-flowing.
~ Palawan ~
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| Kayangan Lake (source) |
You'll need to embark on a 10 minute steep climb for this lake is nestled on top of a mountain. No, don't turn back now! Continue on and you will be rewarded by its breathtaking view and be refreshed by its crystal clear waters. It wasn't awarded as the Cleanest Lake in Asia for nothing!
10. Tubbataha Reef Marine Park
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| Tubbataha Reef Marine Park (source) |
Dive and swim with the different marine species surrounded by pristine coral reefs: live out your Little Mermaid fantasies in the Tubbataha Reefs. Don't worry, I won't tell anyone! It's an entirely different world down under the waters. This was nominated as part of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Quiet, beautiful, and mysterious, it's the complete opposite of the land above.
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References
Occidental Mindoro:
- http://www.wowmindoro.com/topstories/apo-reef-national-park-in-sablayan-occidental-mindoro/
- http://www.ironwulf.net/2009/06/15/mindoro-ambulong-island-grace-island/
- http://www.visitmyphilippines.com/index.php?title=Natural&func=all&pid=6660
- http://www.trendsandspots.com/occidental-mindoro/
Oriental Mindoro:
- http://www.flyphilippines.biz/attractions_natural_ormindoro.php
- http://www.my-own-travels.com/tag/alibatan-island/
Marinduque
- http://www.sightsandspices.com/2013/07/a-sleepy-little-haven-called-maniwaya.html
- http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/157818/marinduque-visiting-the-palm-of-the-oceanhttp://cerebralinsights.wordpress.com/2013/04/15/marinduque-sidetrip-island-hopping/
- http://www.wowromblon.com/destinations/natural-attractions/romblon-and-its-natural-attractions/
- http://osmiva.com/2013/06/tourist-attractions-in-palawan-philippines/
Cool, check out aslo attraction tickets!
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