While the sun was still setting and we were a few kilometers away from the port of Jolo, I noticed the big picture and the stunning view of Sulu - an island province in the Bangsamoro Region. Although this province is always associated with "war," my solo backpacking in the province is proof that traveling to this part of the Philippines is safe. I even discovered that the people are friendly and accommodating. Below are the must-do and must-visit tourist attractions and destinations:
Witness the fresh produce from the sea: Since it's an island province, there are many fresh seafood products available. The photo above was taken at the port of Siasi while the fishermen were loading gigantic tuna, squid, and other products.
Experience breakfast with a tray of sumptuous delicacies: We had our breakfast at one of the local restaurants, and I discovered something interesting. The food server gave us a tray of different dishes (photo above). As Rhu-Rhu (my guide) said, we are not forced to eat all the food that is served. You can eat what you like and pay for what you eat.
Visit the artistic Provincial Capitol: Your visit will not be completed without visiting the beautiful and artistic capitol which houses the political seats and power in the province. In front of the building is a park with an open and wide area. The ambiance is relaxing because it is surrounded by greens, and the wind is cool.
 |
| A perfect spot to take a selfie is at the Sulu Provincial Capitol. |
Visit the National Museum and discover ancient memorabilia. This two-story building houses relics, documents, paintings, and other historical memorabilia. What's interesting inside are the Chinese wares and documents, such as the 1878 Land Lease Agreement between the sultanate of Sulu and British North Borneo Chartered Co.
Visit Majid Tulay, the largest Mosque in the Province. According to my guide, 99 percent of the people in the province practice Islam. Did you know that the first Filipinos who adopted the Island were the Tausugs? This is when Karim ul-Makhdum (a Muslim missionary) came to here in 1380. Anyway, this stunning place of worship is situated in the center of the capital.
 |
| We pass by the century-old acacia trees. |
 |
| Ride in the colorful Pedicab, the locals' primary mode of transportation. |
 |
| Visit the Rizal Park and Jolo Cathedral. |
Touch the portion of the remaining Jolo Walled City: Others claim that it is the smallest city of its kind in the world. Historically speaking, these walls were constructed for protection against outside attacks. Thus, there are gates on different sides that serve as an opening for trade and the like. Today, during my visit, I only saw a portion of these walls located inside the arcade.
Enjoy the relaxing ambiance by the beach: One of the finest white-sand beaches is Mauboh Beach. The area is open, with residents' houses by the shore. There's a long stretch of fine white sand soaked in cool, crystal-clear waters. If you have more time and budget, the nearby islands can also be visited, of course, with proper coordination with the tourism office.
 |
| Taste the original Tausug dishes at D' Cousins. |
 |
| After settling the bills and before leaving Sulu Peacekeepers. |
Finding the Cheapest Place to Stay: There are a few hotels, and one of these is located inside Camp Asturias. For an overnight stay, I paid 950 pesos for a single bed with air conditioning, TV, toilet, and bath. This is the safest place because it is run by a cooperative owned by the peacekeepers (uniformed personnel).
How to Get to Jolo, Sulu: In my case, I took a ferry from Bongao. For ZamBaSulTa or the normal route, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have daily trips to Zamboanga City International Airport. Then, there is a ferry ride from the city port to the destination (9 hours travel time). For a schedule of trips, you can check Aleson Shipping Lines's Facebook page.
To consider before traveling: They have a protocol that all tourists must coordinate with the Tourist Office. READ: Solo-Backpacking in ZamBaSulTa, Zamboanga Provinces and Misamis Occidental.