The Best Place I’ve Been to in the Philippines (Nov 2010)

Even after climbing the highest peak in the Philippines, Mount Apo, I still consider Mount Pulag to be the best in terms of magnificent view.

But what I’m asking myself is where is the best place I’ve been in the Philippines in terms of best in overall experience.

The best in terms of hospitality I’ve experienced was in Isla Verde. While we were casually chatting with locals on a boat to the island, one of them asked “Saan kayo mismo pupunta sa isla?” (Where are you specifically going to the island?) I just smiled at her and answered “Maganda pong tanong yan, hindi rin po namin alam.” (Good question, we also don’t know.) We all laughed and the trip ended with us getting free lodging from the local who asked the question. They also served us fresh fish also for free! How fresh was it? The fisherman just arrived from his fishing expedition, they bought the fish and quickly fried it for us.

In terms of a great beach, its Capones Island in Zambales. I’ve visited this island about 8 times for the past 4 years and every time I visit the island it changes as if it was alive. Sometimes the plants are green, sometimes it’s brown. Sometimes the northern side of the island has a long stretch of beach, sometimes it’s full of rocks. We also discovered a way to get to the other side of the island but can only be reached during low tide. Though that part was slippery it was one of the best adventures I ever had.

In terms of uniqueness of experience the best I had was during our river trek in Bagsit River also in Zambales. The water was crystal clear and according to our guide, when he gets thirsty he just drink direct from the river. Thus I swam in Tutan Pool and when I got thirsty I just opened my mouth and get a drink while swimming.

Unfortunately, according to some who recently went to Bagsit River, there was a big landslide of rocks that destroyed some parts of the river. Maybe it was due to the quarrying near the river.

This shows that not all the best places will be the best in the long run, maybe it will be destroyed by a natural disaster or the rise in human activity. At least we can control the latter by being responsible with our surroundings. Better if the community can sustain the beauty of the place by tourism.

This is my personal list of the best places I’ve been in the Philippines (for now). I will still be travelling to discover new places around the great archipelago. Let’s just hope I get to there in time.

Please be responsible travellers, Leave No Trace.

This is an entry to Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival themed The Best Place You’ve Been to In the Philippines. Click on the Blog Carnival Logo on the left to see more interesting posts regarding The Best Places You’ve Been to In the Philippines.

The awarded blogger, seasoned traveller, famed photographer and fellow runner, Estan Cabigas of Langyaw.com, hosts the first Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival.