(Image Source: footprints of wanderlust(fr Flickr) under CC BY 2.0)
Through the southwest coast of the province of Batangas lies the wonder of Occidental Mindoro, a province that shines with natural beauty that no tourist can ignore. Occidental Mindoro is the less-traveled part of the Mindoro Island. But nevertheless, it is blessed with beautiful marine diversities, wildlife and bird sanctuaries, and long stretches of immaculate white beaches.
Occidental Mindoro is truly nature’s tranquil retreat, a paradise waiting to be unraveled.
Here are five places and activities that any thrill-seeking, adventurous kind of tourist can explore and indulge in while in Occidental Mindoro:
1. APO REEF: Diving and Snorkeling
(Image Source: Photographer: Dr. Dwayne Meadows, NOAA/NMFS/OPR.(Flickr)
The Apo Reef is located in Apo Island in Sibuyan, Occidental Mindoro. It is most famous for its 34-kilometer reef that has a thin channel separating the reef into two lagoon systems. Divers and tourists both take delight in this sight to behold. Beneath the clear waters, divers can indulge the pristine white sand bottom with a vibrant array of 400 -500 coral species. There is about 500 marine species in the area (including a variety of sharks, stingrays, and manta rays).
Other tourists and bird-watchers can also visit the extravagant bird-populated islands of Binangaan and Cajos del Bajo, which are also part of the Apo Reef Marine Park.
2. CALAWAGAN MOUNTAIN RESORT: R & R
(Image Source: yodisphere.com)
The Calawagan Mountain Resort can be found in Barangay Alipaoy, Paluan, Occidental Mindoro.The Calawagan River has been consistently voted as the Cleanest Inland Body of Water in the Department of Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) Clean and Green Program.
Tourists can jump in and enjoy the beautiful and natural pools of the area. The one-and-a-half hectare resort is a popular picnic spot and swimming area. The visitors are required to bring their own food and beverages since there are no restaurants available at the resort. The Calawagan Mountain Resort is operated by the local government since 1976.
3. AMBULONG ISLAND: Be One With Nature
(Image Source: trampingphilippines.com)
The Ambulong Island in located in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. It is yet another beach community of exquisite tranquility and rustic beauty. The place has white sand beaches and cliffs overlooking the water and underwater caves as well. Fishes are abundant in the coral gardens of the coves.
Ambulong is ideal for the divers' jump-off point headed to Apo Reef, Sardines Island, Dungan Reef, Iling Point and other dive sites in the area. There are a few budget accommodations as well as a fishing village in a sheltered area along the shore.
4. NORTH PANDAN ISLAND: Seclusion at its Finest
(Image Source: s1expeditions.com)
The North Pandan Island is an emerging tourist destination. It is sought out by people wanting seclusion, rest and relaxation. The clear waters and beautiful white sand competes of what Boracay offers, but without the massive, suffocating crowds and huge hotels and restaurants. There is no electricity available in the island, truly connecting you back to mother nature. The only source of entertainment are the vast forests, the wide sea and the lush white sands.
This island is located off the coast of Sablayan. It is an hour away from Apo Reef. The North Pandan Island Resort is the only resort in the island.
5. BESAY FALLS: Wonderful Waterfalls
(Image Source: kabaleyan.com)
The beautiful Besay Falls can be found in Baranga. Tambo, Ambil Island in Occidental Mindoro. Besay Falls is about 5 meters in diameter. It is composed of a series of cascading water that flows into a basin of crystal clear body of aqua. The scenic road to the waterfalls passes through a rice plantation and a carabao pasture. Besay Falls is truly a beauty yet to be discovered.
REFERENCES:
- http://www.ytrip.org.ph/resources/why-you-should-visit-sablayan.html
- http://iamtravelinglight.com/2013/05/06/10-things-to-do-and-not-do-to-have-a-fun-smooth-sailing-apo-reef-adventure-part-1/
- http://www.lonelyplanet.com/philippines/mindoro/activities?abv=current
- http://triptheislands.com/destinations/occidental-mindoro-exploring-paradise/
- http://www.philippinetraveler.com/mindoro-philippines.html
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