Jeepney: The King of the Road

Once considered a symbol of Filipino ingenuity, creativity and innovation, in recent years, this icon of Filipino life has been tarnished, bullied and victimized almost to oblivion but despite all the pressure, it has remained the transportation of choice of the working class. The demand for the jeepney once spawned the birth of an industry that produced jeepneys from scratch, an industry that is almost at its death-bed today as only the original makers, Sarao Motors remains open, although barely.

Most jeepneys you see in the busy streets of the metro cannot be called symbols of Filipino creativity and ingenuity, if we are to be honest. Riding through the heavily-polluted streets while sitting in the cramped and hot space inside these mostly forlorn-looking and unyielding metal shells of galvanized sheets cannot be termed in the least bit enjoyable. Yet travel brochures of the Philippines often announce it as an essential part of the Philippine adventure.

But riding a jeepney can be an experience beginning with the barker calling out endlessly to passersby to the inevitable chant of para which signals the driver that a commuter has reached his destination. Then there are the decorations, lots of them from witty signs such as “God knows Judas not pay” to the aluminum horses atop their hoods. Foreigners are mesmerized by these unique attractions where the owners’ character is often reflected and translated into the designs that adorn this wonderfully colorful vehicle. From the busy streets of the modern metro to the often dusty tracks of the far-flung towns, the jeepney still reigns supreme as the ultimate Filipino mode of transport.

As a tribute to this icon of Filipino living, the Philippines’ Department of Tourism in partnership with various government agencies, transport groups and private organizations held a Jeepney Arts Festival in September of last year. An On-the-Spot Jeepney Painting Contest happened at the SM Mall of Asia for four days where some 50 jeepneys were painted with images that showcased the Filipino spirit and creative excellence as well as travel destinations in the country. Especially decorated and built jeepneys are now being used by tour groups to transport tourists through the streets of the metropolis and are equipped with comfortable and air-conditioned interiors. One thing is perfectly clear – whatever the design, color or condition, the jeepney is here to celebrate what is truly and uniquely Filipino. It remains the King of the Road.

Deciding to purchase a Prevost bus for sale is easy – deciding where to go first is the tricky part. Why not start your adventures with a trip to California? Hollywood is exceptionally friendly to tour buses, as they already have plenty of them. Your Prevost can stay in an RV park outside of the main city limits, and by day you can enjoy tours of famous Hollywood hot spots, along with amusement parks like Universal Studios. This is the perfect trip with the entire family, so thrill the grand kids by traveling in style – and in a vehicle that has enough leg room to actually enjoy a long journey all together.

When people look for a Prevost bus for sale, they frequently have a more earthy adventure in mind. RV trips usually include national historical landmarks, and it doesn’t get easier than with a Prevost bus. Consider visiting national parks all over the U.S., taking photos and sleeping under the stars or in the bus itself. Other popular vacation ideas that involve regional wonder include New York, New Orleans or the coast of California. Wherever you go, there are parks available to leave your Prevost. You will save money on hotels and eating out, since you can cook and sleep inside a retrofitted Prevost. Not sure where to go first? Ask your family for advice, as there is room for all.

Finally, vacationing in your Prevost doesn’t have to be a huge party or adventure – sometimes it’s fine to strike out on your own or with a romantic partner. Consider camping overnight in a little-known region, or enjoy some time away at a luxury resort. Wherever you go, your bus will serve as the perfect companion for days and nights away.

Here’s our list of Things to do in the UK for families:

Natural History Museum

Walk around the ‘blue zone’ and discover a world of dinosaurs, whales and the amazing evolution of the world. Or maybe you’ll prefer the ‘green zone’ and explore a wide collection of fossils, reptiles and birds? Or could the ‘red zone’ be more of your thing, with its displays of the earth treasures from the beginning of time? How about looking around the Darwin Centre and experiencing nature shows and wildlife?

With the wide range of facilities, shop and restaurants, that it has to offer, there’s something for everyone. But the best part? It’s all free!

Brownsea Island wildlife walk

Located in Poole, Dorset this wildlife walk will have you exploring through the centre of the island, and the opportunity to see a variety of nature including red squirrels and deers! The walk is a short 1 mile, and is perfect for young explorers who want to discover wildlife and nature.

The wildlife walk is open all year round, with a good time to go being in the warmer summer months as a wide range of different birds visit the location at this time.

Sacrewell Farm

For families and children who have an interest in animals and wildlife, this is the perfect place to go. There are a range of different animal petting pens located all over the farm; animals include: pigs, horses, chickens, birds, ducks and more.

As well as this, the farm has a variety of facilities, such as mini tractors, a soft play area, a maze, an activity barn, a discovery centre, picnic areas, a camping and caravanning site, and much, much more. The farm is jam packed with more activities and excitement than you could imagine. Whilst also being at an affordable cost, it is a must do this half term!

Forest of Dean

Forest of Dean (Photography by Lemoncurd/Wikipedia)

This forest in Bristol has been voted one of the best places to visit for cycling, with the option of using your own bikes or through the use of bike hire. If maybe you want something more than just a ride through the forest on the Family Cycle Trail, then why not check out one of their MTB or downhill trails, and push your skills to the max, and compete with your friends.

This forest has everything you could want – with it’s variety of easy and hard tracks, and different terrains, all at such a low fee, there are no excuses to not join in!

Ongoing until May 31, 2013 is the Banana Boat Great Outdoor Fun – Boracay, which gives you and your whole family the chance to win an all-expense-paid trip for four to this fab getaway site.

Joining is so easy. All Facebook fans of Banana Boat Philippines can register for the contest through the Facebook app located at https://www.facebook.com/BananaBoatPhilippines/app_622349147791423.

Banana Boat sunscreen lotion

Upload family photos that show how to have a great outdoor fun with a bottle of Banana Boat sunscreen lotion included in the shot. Put out as many photos as you like, and add some witty and creative captions to better your chances of winning.

Once these photos appear in the Banana Boat Philippines Page timeline, you must share them in your own Facebook wall.

Invite your friends to vote for any of your photos in the fanpage site. The top five entries will be short-listed and judged by Banana Boat Philippines based on the number of votes, and the winning family will get an all-expense-paid trip for four, inclusive of airfare, hotel accommodations and tour. There will also be four consolation cash prizes of P3,000 each, plus Banana Boat gift packs to all winners.

So show the world how much fun you can have with Banana Boat, and have the chance to fly for free to Boracay. With Banana Boat sunscreen lotion’s unique AvoTriplex technology, you can have much more fun under the sun as it provides longer lasting and more effective protection against the sun’s harmful rays.

Banana Boat sunscreen lotions are available in supermarkets, drugstores and health and beauty stores nationwide. For more info, visit http://www.bananaboat.com.ph/BB/ or like its Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/BananaBoatPhilippines.

Brits love to travel, but the cost of airlines, hotels, food, events, can all easily add up. A small 10 day vacation can end up adding up to over $8000 just to visit North America, never mind some more exotic location. It gets so expensive that you may even have to take out a holiday loan just go on one, but there is another option. A stay at home vacation you lose the new places, but you also save all that cost and the stress of packing, travel, airports, etc. The idea is to save all this money doing local events or just spending time with family, relaxing in your own yard or similar.

Glamping

Of course staying at home is boring and it is easy to fall back into the daily routine. This is a vacation after all you don’t want to be doing the same old same old. Most people live near some attraction or a large town that they almost never visit or go explore. Take a local vacation see the museums and sights near you, you have no need to pack, and don’t need to worry about a hotel to stay in. Take a day trip and explore your local area or a nearby city.

The day trip is also popular; traveling just far enough that you can do something and get back in a day. This allows you to even do some road trip like travel which, while the point is to save, it is good to experience especially since your only exploring for a day. This gives you much more freedom as well no schedules, no distance you have to make lets you take your time and look around the area your traveling instead of just zooming by it. If you really want to explore the open road VW camper rental will let you wander a bit more, but at an added cost, though still keeping it cheaper than car rental and a hotel elsewhere.

Foraging

Since you have to not worry about all the extra expense of a trip abroad, but you want to do more than just staying at home you can always try camping, or even glamping (glamour camping). There are a few UK sites specifically for glamping and more for those that want to brave the outdoors in regular camping. Both options are much cheaper than travel abroad and add a little adventure to your staycation as well. Many sites offer another low cost activity that can save you plenty of money in the long run. Foraging is becoming an increasingly popular and fashionable pass time. With the chance of free food and plenty of time spent outdoors it’s hard to see any down side! Both options are much cheaper than travel abroad and add a little adventure to your staycation as well.

Burj Kalifa

Burj Kalifa

Burj Kalifa was designed as a the center piece of a mixed use development project, it is the tallest free standing structure on Earth (829.8m/2722ft), and ever built by man and just the tallest structure in general. In addition to these world records the building holds 14 other records as well. Some interesting ones include the world’s highest nightclub on floor 144, the world’s highest restaurant (Atmosphere) on the 122nd floor. The design of the Burj Kalifa is a Y shape, ideal for hotel and residential use allowing for the most possible outside views and maximum inward light. The construction was made using a special tube design when cuts down on the need for steel and other materials, for example it used about half the steel needed to make the equivalent space of the Empire State building.

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah

This is not a building, hotel, nor even a resort, Palm Jumeirah is a chain of islands. What is special about them is that they are all reclaimed land; the whole archipelago is man-made to extend the shore line. This is one of the world’s largest land reclamation projects ever built. The brain child that started the fashion for buying a property in Dubai, this was the first project to bring in something other than oil based income. The project has suffered a large number of setbacks and controversy leading to a number of delays and even a sinking problem. Despite the these problems the islands have a large number of resorts and attractions, and are themselves an engineering marvel, if you are in the region of Dubai it is a sight not to be missed.

Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab is one of the resort hotels on the man-made Palm Jumeriah, the shape and design of the hotel is based off the sail of a ship. The hotel is renowned as the only “seven-star” hotel. The Burj Al Arab was designed to be iconic it was inspired by such monuments as the Tower of London, the Sydney Opera House, or the Eiffel Tower. Building a hotel that is the fourth tallest in the world on an artificial island took several engineering feats that are unique to the building. Though the seven star rating is debatable, that it is one of the marvels of the modern world just from the building of it alone is not. Dubai has become a haven for mega structures but as the designers had in mind this is one of the most iconic.

Liverpool

Clockwise: Liverpool skyline, Royal Liver Building, Skyline of Liverpool, Albert Dock, Echo Arena, Victoria street (source: wikipedia)

The home of the Beatles is cemented in the cultural folklore of Britain and, while there are a vast array of attractions to appeal to all ages and tastes, many can be visited for no charge. With a planetarium, aquarium and bug house, the World Museum is developed around an interactive experience for the whole family and also welcomes a variety of travelling events and exhibitions throughout the year. For those with an interest in art, The Walker Gallery features a range of exhibits dating from the last 700 years of world history while for Beatles fans the immortal Penny Lane (complete with the bank, fire station and barbers mentioned in the lyrics) offers a free step into music folklore. With ample hotels and accommodation in Liverpool to suit all budgets, a cheap stay in this cultural city is assured.

Birmingham

From top left: Skyline of Birmingham City Centre from Edgbaston Cricket Ground; Selfridges in the Bull Ring; Birmingham Town Hall; St Philip’s Cathedral; Alpha Tower; University of Birmingham (JimmyGuano)

Britain’s second city may not be the first choice for a short break but is teeming with free attractions that are sure to entertain the whole family. Throughout the year the city is host to a variety of free events such as the Frankfurt Christmas Market, the International Dance Festival and Birmingham Pride while numerous concerts can be enjoyed at Symphony Hall covering a wide range of musical genres. A stroll along the city’s canal network is a great way to absorb the contrasting architectural styles of the city and, with more urban green space than any city in the UK, there are endless opportunities to explore the tranquil outdoors. Birmingham’s Museum and Art Gallery is home to the renowned Staffordshire Hoard and therefore a visit here is both essential and, of course, free.

London

From upper left: City of London, Tower Bridge and London Eye, Palace of Westminster (Sceptre)

Contrary to public opinion, the UK’s capital city offers many opportunities for free entertainment from the Tate Modern to the British Museum to the eight royal parks where the hours can be whiled away in peace. For a more unusual experience visit Borough Market, London’s oldest food market where a vast range of world dishes can be sampled in a mouth-watering atmosphere. If the popular tourist-crammed museums don’t appeal, visit Grant Museum of Zoology which boasts an unusual collection of exhibits (a jar of pickled moles, for instance) and also screens animal or monster-themed films which you’d probably forgotten existed. A glass of wine is included, for free. Alternatively a trip to Speakers’ Cornerin Hyde Park is always worthwhile to hear the elucidations on a range of topics as orators exercise the concept of free speech.

With a whole range of interesting sites, attractions and events offered at no cost, visiting Britain need not be an expensive luxury.

How to Go to Camiguin

Port of Balingoan

Popular way to go to Camiguin is by riding a ferry from Port of Balingoan in Misamis Oriental.

Get Around

You can get around the island by taking a jeepney, multicab, or a tricycle. You may also rent a motorcycle if you know how to drive.

What to See and Do

Virgin Island

The small island province has recently been getting a lot of attention, due largely to the fact that people are starting to recognize its beauty. Foremost of the attractions of the island is White Island, just off the coast of Agoho in the town of Mambajao. It is a sand bar which partly disappears during high tide which causes the island to change in shape from C to I and is a swimmer’s paradise with its clear blue waters. Snorkeling in its waters is also a worthwhile activity where one will surely enjoy the bounty of the seas hidden in its waters. If you travel to the island early enough, you will get the opportunity to view the sun as it rises from the horizon and if you stay long enough, the beautiful sunset is a photographer’s dream.

Just three kilometers off the shore from Barangay San Roque in Mahinog is an island of evergreen forests fringed by white sand beaches. It is indeed a paradise to most visitors where finding a secluded spot amongst the expanse of the nature trail allows one to experience a bit of heaven for a few hours. Leaving behind the lush forest cover, you can head on to the crystal blue waters fronting the perfect sand beaches of the island. You can choose to swim or snorkel to see the exquisite marine creatures hidden beneath the waters. A short boat ride to the Marine Sanctuary is also an experience that will last a lifetime and you can order grilled seafood from the islanders manning the cooperative which manages the island.

Both the Katibawasan Falls and Tuasan Falls are worth the visit. It is indeed a breathtaking sight to view the cascading waters of both falls as they hit the reservoir below. Katibawasan measures 250ft high and cascades down to a rock pool that is gloriously surrounded by magnificent orchids, ferns and lush trees. The cold waters in the pool provide a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation. The trek to the 25m high Tuasan Falls is tiring but the scenes along the way are well worth the effort. The thundering waters cascading from the top of the falls are awe-inspiring to behold and can very well be tapped as a mini hydro electric source.

The hot and cold springs of Camiguin are not to be missed either. Ardent Hot Springs is a natural pool that flows from the depths of Mount Hibok-Hibok. The vapors that rise from the hot waters of the mineral pool are said to have therapeutic effects and best bathed in during nighttime as you are surrounded by the cool mountain air. It is a perfect way to relax after a tiring day of fun and adventure in other places of Camiguin. The Sto. Niño Cold Spring has a pool measuring 25 x 40 meters. It is 2 meters deep where cold spring water rises from the sandy bottom of the pool. The water is very cold and definitely refreshing if you wish for a reprieve from the humid climate of the island. Both springs have picnic huts where one can have a leisurely lunch and lounge around before getting into the pools.

A visit to Camiguin cannot be complete without climbing Mount Hibok-Hibok but the 1250-meter slope can be quite a challenge. Seasoned mountaineers have some difficulty contending with the loose rocks and boulders along the trail. The volcano has a crater lake that is a site to behold and you can view the steam outlets that abound. You will also be provided an amazing view of the nearby islands of Cebu, Negros and Bohol once you reach the peak. Definitely, there are lots of opportunities for the photo enthusiast.

Another place worth visiting in Camiguin if you still have time would be the Giant Clam Sanctuary where you can find six out of the nine giant clams of the world. The Old Volcano with its underwater lava formation is also quite interesting to behold. The Sunken Cemetery in Bonbon, Catarman is a chilling reminder of the wrathful side of the volcanoes that are responsible for creating the beautiful island of Camiguin.

Where to Stay

Camiguin Action Geckos Dive & Adventure Resort, Catarman Coral Dive Resort, Villa Paraiso Resort & Apartelle

What to Buy

Camiguin is known as the home of VjANDEP Pastel, a soft dough coffee bun.

Hundred Islands

Museums, historical sites, and centuries-old churches also abound in the islands that those who love history are sure to enjoy. And then there is shopping galore at the many malls and department stores the islands have to offer, not to mention the flea markets of Quiapo, Divisoria and Baclaran which bargain hunters are sure to love.

In the largest island of Luzon, there are many tourist destinations that the wanderer can visit, foremost of which is the famous Banaue Rice Terraces which UNESCO recognized as one of the World Heritage Sites in the Philippines due to its legacy as a testament to man’s ability to work with nature to survive even with the simplest of tools. Going down the mountains of Northern Luzon, you can make a side trip to another World Heritage site, Vigan. The cobblestone streets and the old-world architecture of the town’s residences and other edifices is viewed as unique and confirms man’s ability to adapt and adopt to influences and create a style out of these influences that is uniquely their own. Even further north to the Ilocos region are two other World Heritage Sites, one being the Paoay Church in the town of Paoay in Ilocos Norte and the other being Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion in Sta. Maria in Ilocos Sur which both reflects the unique architectural style known as Earthquake Baroque. On your way back to Manila, the country’s capital you can stop over at Pangasinan and go spelunking at the Hundred Islands in Alaminos before traveling southward to Zambales where you can camp out at Anawangin where the lush forest is very near the beach and the towering rock formations offer a view of the sunset that is one of the best in the world. Then there is Potipot Island which is fast becoming a popular tourist destination with its white coral sands. A few days of shopping in Manila and some time off to arrange a trip to the Philippines last frontier, Palawan can be a break from all the sight-seeing and adventure. A side-trip to the world’s smallest active volcano, Taal is a couple of hours drive. You can also visit Mayon Volcano in Albay, famous for its near-perfect cone before heading off for a most memorable trip to Palawan. The Subterranean River in Puerto Princesa is a must-see for the erstwhile traveler, another one of the World Heritage Sites found in the archipelago. If one can afford it, El Nido in Palawan is also an experienced not to be missed.

Leaving the island of Luzon, we head on to Visayas, home to one of the world’s best beaches and perennial party place – Boracay. Boracay is famous for its white sand beaches that is powdery soft and where the parties never end. Anytime of the year, the beaches of the island are teeming with tourists who cannot resist the beauty that the island has to offer. After a few days of relaxation in Boracay, you can head on to Cebu, teeming with history and shopping. It is known for its world-class furniture and amazing accessories, not to mention the welcoming smiles of its very friendly people. Of course, one cannot visit Cebu and not enjoy its world-class resorts and the diving spots around the “Queen City of the South.” Also in the Visayan Islands is Bohol, one of the Philippines top tourist destinations. The Chocolate Hills of the island is a major tourist attraction where one can see the tarsier, considered as the smallest primate in the world and is endemic to the island. Then there are the white sand beaches of Panglao, perfect for swimming and sunbathing, or enjoy snorkeling or diving in the waters surrounding the island. Dolphin-watching is also a popular attraction that the island has to offer. A cruise of the Loboc River is also offered by the many tour operators in Bohol and one that is popular among foreign tourists. Spelunkers would enjoy the many caves of Samar while Siquijor is slowly gaining popularity because of its white sand beaches and its wealth of faith healers and the mysticism that comes to mind when you mention the province. For foodies, the province of Iloilo and Bacolod City in Negros Occidental should not be missed. The mangoes of Guimaras are also world-famous and are touted as the sweetest in the world.

Moving on to the last major island of the Philippines, Mindanao is home to most of the Muslim population of the largely Christian people of the Philippines. It is an island rich in cultural heritage and history. Surigao is blessed with white beaches one of which, the Cagwait White Beach is being compared to Waikiki Beach in Hawaii. Tinuy-an Falls, also in Surigao is also a popular destination in the province. In Mati, Davao Oriental, skim boarding is one activity that is fast gaining popularity and is attracting tourists from far and beyond. Likewise, Glan in Sarangani province also has beautiful white beaches to offer the island hopping traveler. And a visit to Mindanao is not complete without dropping by the Pearl Farm in Samal Island which offers world-class facilities parallel to the world’s best. So get your back packs ready and start your tour of the most enchanting islands of the Philippine archipelago.

No matter where you have traveled before, there’s nothing better than jetting off for a romantic break in Italy, and one of the best things to kick-start your vacation are the smells of the local restaurants. Whether you’re in Rome or Milan, the restaurants in Italy are some of the best in the world, and they create the perfect atmosphere for a couple looking to spend some quality time together.

After a relaxing day on the beach soaking up the sun, a traditional Italian restaurant is the perfect way to carry on your evening, so let’s take a look at some of the bests ways to ensure you have a great time tasting the local cuisine.

Choosing The Right Restaurant

Location is everything when choosing the right restaurant to host your romantic dinner, and sometimes the busiest and most popular places are not always the right choice. There are a number of things that need to fall in to place to make the perfect romantic restaurant, and sometimes the best way to find it is to just go with the flow of the night. Don’t just get a table at the first restaurant you come across, as these will be filled with people looking to eat and leave, and not enjoy the company of their fellow diners.

It’s the overall experience that counts when selecting the right restaurant for your romantic meal, and although there are plenty of luxury establishments to dine in, maybe it’s the one that doesn’t stand out that will make the best impression.

No matter where you holiday in Italy, from the sleepiest town to the most vibrant cities, there will always be that one special restaurant that will make your night complete – don’t settle for anything less, and make sure you find it. You could even rent a car from autoeurope.com to so you’re not left wondering aimlessly around the city streets.

Romantic Ideas To Make The Night

Indeed, location is important when trying to make your romantic meal extra special, however there are also many more factors that need to be assessed. Take music for example – the last thing you want is for there to be Eurotrash pop blaring out of the restaurant speakers when you’re looking into your lover’s eyes.

Your attire is also very important too, and if you’re not careful, being that little bit too casual could really let your performance down! As long as you’re looking good enough to complement your partner, but not outshine, then you’re well on your way to having a great night.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Marine Park

We begin our trip with the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Marine Park in the Sulu Sea. Pristine and primordial, there are very few places on earth where the wonders of the sea are displayed in such grandeur. It was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1993 and it consists of two coral atolls separated by an 8-km channel. North of the ranger station on the north reef is the bird islet which is a nesting place for some of the world’s birds and marine turtles, come of which are threatened species. Tubbataha covers about 33,200 hectares making it the Philippines largest marine habitat and marine biologists believe that the underwater gardens of the reef are at the top of the world list in terms of biodiversity. In fact, it is believed to be the most diverse in the world. It is a food basket which contains more than 400 species of fish. It is also one of our country’s premiere diving destinations.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Travelling to Puerto Princesa, we find the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. It has a magnificent limestone rock formation carved into carste topography with an underground river system that is close to the sea. Shells of tiny sea creatures and mud built up to create limestone which slowly dissolved by rain and water creating the unique topography known as carste. Beneath the mountain of St. Paul are ecosystems that are highly diverse such that it represents almost all types of forests found in the Far East. The most preserved mangrove forest in the country is found in the park. At least 149 vertebrates are found in the park and a third of them are endemic to Palawan. The plant life is so rich that 280 different trees thrive in the forests of the Park. It is 22 hectares big while the subterranean river is believed to be the longest in the world made even more unique because it emerges directly into the sea.

Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras

Northward to the mountains of the Cordilleras are the Rice Terraces of the Philippines which was inscribed by the UNESCO in 1995. It is believed to be the most extensive rice terraces system in the world carved out of the mountains by the proud Ifugao people. It covers 22,000 sq kms and extends across five provinces. It celebrates the genius of our forefathers who developed a system of agricultural, engineering and environmental practices to grow our staple food. The Ifugao used water ingeniously to carve the terraces out of the mountainsides. A ring of forests are found at the top of each cluster of terraces which begin the water cycle that irrigates the terraces, a system so sophisticated but totally sustainable making it one of the best soil and water structures ever built by humans. The terraces manifest the roots of our heritage as a people.

Historic Town of Vigan

From the Cordilleras we head west to Vigan, a symbol of the first colonization of the Philippines. Founded by Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo in 1572, it was first called Villa Fernandina. It was once the leading trading hub in the Philippine north besides being the religious center of the region. The delta of the Mestizo River is where many trading ships berthed carrying goods from China. It also participated in the Manila-Acapulco Galleon trade. It is not surprising, therefore that the architecture and lay-out of the town reflect the influences of China, Mexico and Spain. It remains the only town in the Philippines that retains most of its colonial architecture. It is hailed by UNESCO as the best preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. To the Filipino, what Vigan represents is his adaptability and ability to combine foreign ideas creating a style that is uniquely is own.

Baroque Churches of the Philippines

Paoay Church

The four magnificent structures grouped together by UNESCO under the title the Baroque Churches of the Philippines is a further testament of the Filipino adaptability. Under the instruction of the Spanish friars, Filipino artisans and carpenters built these unique churches, thus combining the Baroque style that was very popular in Europe and Latin America at the time to Filipino artistry and craftsmanship. The result was an architecture that is Western in appearance but very Filipino in spirit and context. The Paoay Church is built with a conscious effort to protect the church from earthquakes that occur frequently in the region. It has given birth to a style called Earthquake Baroque. The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion is situated on top of a hill and is a truly magnificent structure. It has very thick walls and a line of buttresses much like those in Paoay aimed to protect against earthquakes. The Church of Miag-ao or the Church of Sto. Tomas de Villanueva represents an architectural style known as fortress baroque and also stands on the highest location of the town. Its facade is exuberantly decorated with vines, leaves, tendrils and festoons carved from stone. Its facade gives the church a very folk image despite its baroque style. The oldest stone church in the country is the San Agustin Church. It is said that the entire building sways during an earthquake because of its raft-type foundation. The outside buttresses of the Paoay Church and the one in Sta. Maria was brought in because of lack of space. A choir loft makes the church truly unique as it is the only one you can find in the Philippines.

As we travel through these World Heritage sites in the Philippines, I am left with a feeling of sadness and awe. I am awed because the value of these sites to the Filipino as a people is priceless and I am sad because I see the need to educate our countrymen to learn to appreciate their value. Very few can appreciate them in these modern times. In the end, these sites are a testament to our nationhood, our heritage, our patrimony and our identity, but above all, it is a testament to our humanity.

Here are some great ideas for last minute holidays, courtesy of Co-operative Travel.

Malaga

Panoramic view of Malaga, Spain (Photography by Kiban)

To put it simply, Malaga has everything: sun, sea, sand, culture, cuisine, sports and that famous Spanish nightlife. Malaga was home to both Pablo Picasso and Antonio Banderas, so it’s no wonder the town takes so much pride in their patronage of the arts; you won’t be at a loss to find galleries and museums to visit during your stay.

Malaga is also within easy reach of multiple surf and ski resorts for those of you that want a little action, and beautiful sandy beaches are only a stone’s throw away for those who don’t.

And that second option is always popular in a place with nightlife like Malaga’s. Here you can move easily from bar to bar in the warmth of the southern Spanish evening, and there are countless clubs that will cater to your party needs until the sun comes up.

Albufeira, Algarve

Probably the most popular Portuguese destination for students, it can go head to head with any Greek party island for its nightlife and party atmosphere. What’s more, it’s one of the best destinations you’re going to come across for sports. Many university football, rugby and golf tours, head to this part of the world to use its fantastic facilities, so you’ll never be wanting for fellow student company.

Playa de Las Americas, Tenerife

This is another perfect party destination, if you’re desperate to escape the miserable grey weather at home. On the Canary Islands, the sun shines practically all year round, so you can sun yourself bronze on the beaches while folks shiver in the snow back home.

Tenerife is famous for its club scene and late-night bars. However, there are alternatives for the students who want them. Head down to the bars of the university city of La Laguna and hang with your fellow scholars from across the Canary Islands. You’ll find plenty of live music, bars and clubs, all for the good of inter-student relations.

Amsterdam

OK, so it’s not going to offer much of an escape from Britain’s weather, but Amsterdam is still a heavyweight player in the list of greatest European party towns. Its reputation precedes it, so little needs to be said about this city of vice. Here, your party can last from the moment you wake until well into the next morning, if you want to stop at all.

But partying isn’t all you have in Amsterdam – it’s also a city of incredible culture. It is home to the Van Gough Museum, one of the most spectacular art galleries you’re ever likely to see and the Anne Frank House is a stark reminder of Europe’s recent dark past. It’s also a beautiful setting: a maze of winding canals and unique architecture.