More than 7,000 islands scatter across the Pacific ocean to form the Philippines. The pristine untouched islands are strung across the water mass as if waiting to be discovered for the first time. But as I was to discover later, the archipelago goes beyond whatever I had imagined. Gratifying and heady, the Philippines has everything in store for those who want to look beyond the done-to-death South East Asian destinations.
After decades of colonisation by Spanish and American forces, the Philippines became a melting pot of Eastern and Western cultures. Therefore, traces of Americanism are quite hard to miss, one of them being the English language. So, while interacting with the locals, the language or the accent is hardly a barrier for most Indians.
Leaving the hustle and bustle of the capital city Manila, we took a quick flight to Cebu. In Cebu, I soaked in the culture and did the touristy stuff. First, we quickly visited Casa Gorordo, an ancient house built in mid-19th century. It was a typical wooden Spanish house preserved as a museum. A stroll in the museum will take you back in time as you slowly make your way through the living room adorned with ancient showpieces, climb up the wooden staircase to reach the dining hall with a well-laid table and then there?s a bedroom with king-size beds and a wishing well in the garden, too. After getting a glimpse of the Spanish Era, which preceded the US? reign, we visited the Heritage of Cebu Monument?a montage representing the events in the history of Cebu. But this palace is not just a page in a history textbook. The flea markets here offer exquisite souvenirs, hats, wooden guitars of various sizes and other knick-knacks.
Breaking away from the tranquil cultural hotspots, we went to Crowne Regency, the tallest Cebu hotel to get an adrenaline rush. From 38th floor of the building we went on a tilted coaster around the edge of the building! This was not for the faint-hearted, but the view from top was worth taking a risk. The Cebu landscape looked truly breathtaking from 130 metres above the ground. After that thrilling ride, I did not have the nerves to try zip-line or other sky adventures that the tower offered.
The best part of the trip was yet to come. The next stop was Boracay, which was adjudged by TripAdvisor as the second best beach destination in the world this year. Boracay is a place for lovers. The picturesque white sandy beaches, lanes dotted with boutique shops and pubs with live bands playing in the evening make Boracay for a romantic getaway. We landed on the island after a pleasant ferry ride from Caticlan Airport. White sandy beaches and a not-too-harsh sun greeted us. Here, you can spend your day just lying under the palm trees, enjoying both the serenity of nature and the hustle and bustle of a holiday destination.
But the best of Boracay lies in something else. If sports is your idea of a fun-filled holiday and you are not scared of heights, deep water or the sun tan, then there?s ample that Boracay waters can offer. Snorkel the pristine coral reef or go diving at the many dive sites around Boracay. It?s for both beginners as well as experienced divers. Or for a fun-filled day just spend your time mountain biking or driving an ATV vehicle from one sight-seeing spot to another.
But the experience that will remain etched in my memory for long is para-sailing above the crystal clear blue sea, soaking in the view of the mountains. Up in the air, it was just the sea and I. The sea?vast and unending, deep and reassuring. Its calmness was infectious, and so was the adrenaline pumping excitement of being up in the air. One must indulge in all water-sports available here, and there is a vast list of options to choose from?skimboarding, windsurfing and kite surfing, water skiing, banana boat, glass bottom boat and parasailing. They do leave you a bit tired, but they will also rejuvenate you.
What?s more? Indulge in a beachside massage for as cheap as R350 or just shop till you drop at a host of malls. The Philippines is a value-for-money destination and can easily give Thailand a run for its money.
The trip was sponsored by Philippines Tourism Marketing Office, India