Isla Jardin Del Mar

A gorgeous view by the beach of Isla Jardin del Mar.

Upon arrival, I easily heard the relaxing rushing waves hitting the shoreline. After paying the entrance fee, with excitement, I headed to the side where the sound came from and found a stretch of fine white sand and playful crystal clear water. Not only that, this beach has emerald seas, the coconuts, and the trees by the beach serve as a perfect backdrop. By the way, the wind is cool and fresh and the area has a relaxing ambiance - perfect for family outing and weekend getaway. 

Ozamiz City Tourist Spot

1. Ozamiz City Hall

After my historical tour in Dipolog and Dapitan City in Zamboanga del Norte, I traveled to Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental (Region 10). Its capital is Oroqueta City, but I chose this place because I want to see and touch Fort sa Cotta and the Cathedral. On the way, I noticed the wide farmlands, but when I arrived in the center, this city was the same as the other cities, business establishments were on every corner, transportation was continuous, and the streets were undeniably busy. From the Integrated Terminal, I rode on a tricycle to the different tourist spots, attractions, and destinations.

Camiguin Itinerary, Backpacking in Mindanao

A photo of the stunning Katibawasan Falls.

Every time I hear the word Camiguin, I usually think of the best lanzones in the Philippines and the Sunken Cemetery. But during our visit, we saw how wealthy the top tourist spots and destinations in the province are in terms of natural beauty, making the province one of the best tourist attractions in the Philippines. Backpacking is not a big problem here because at the port of Camiguin, multi-cab, with a driver, can be chartered for the whole day tour (and that’s what we did).

Pagadian, Zamboanga del Sur - Solo-Backpacking in Mindanao

After Ozamis City and Misamis Occidental, I travelled to Pagadian City, Province of Zamboanga del Sur, which is the last province on my list. It was a three-and-a-half-hour land travel with a huge picture of how the people of the Zamboanga peninsula live. At the integrated terminal, I rode on a motorcycle to the centre of the city, passing by the famous rotunda. I was wearing a sando, and I easily felt the fresh and cool wind while we were on a descending road with a clear view of the stunning sunset.

Zamboanga del Norte Tourist Spots

1. Dapitan City Plaza

Dapitan City Plaza (“Liwasan ng Dapitan”), also known as the Town Square, is the plaza that Dr. Jose P. Rizal beautified and developed during his exile. It has an estimated land area of 1 hectare, and it is laid out in the traditional rectilinear Spanish colonial manner. The plaza already existed when Dr. Jose P. Rizal arrived in Dapitan on July 17, 1892. Making this area one of the top tourist attractions in Zamboanga del Norte. Details from Dapitan City Official Website

Featuring Southern Leyte - Solo-Backpacking in Region 8

The top tourist spot and destination in Southern Leyte is Maasin Cathedral, a catholic place of worship in Maasin City. It was originally built in 1700 by the Jesuit priests; however, it was severely damaged because of the Moro’s rebels. The bricks and the mosses on the façade give an older and unique look, which is perfect for modern selfies. This cathedral is definitely one of the historical pillars of the province. Since it is situated in front of the plaza and a few meters away from the City hall, it is one of the busiest area in city.

Featuring Samar Province - Solo-Backpacking in Region 8

The San Juanico Bridge is the most visited tourist spot in Samar and Leyte. A few years ago, the province captured the world's attention because of the devastation brought by Typhoon Yolanda. But did you know that Samar also hides something in their mountainous and forested areas? These are breathtaking and definitely a splendor of nature’s beauty that needs to be discovered. Some of Samar Island's must-visit tourist spots and destinations are historical landmarks, waterfalls, and caves.

Capul Island

Introduction:

This island is one of the must-visit gems of Northern Samar. This island municipality can bring you back because of the famous century-old lighthouse and church. If you’re into outdoors, you can explore the hidden and majestic caves or hop on and off the rock formations by the shore; it’s your choice. If you just want to relax, no worries. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters and the continuously blowing cool fresh air. The coconut and other trees create an amazing backdrop by the shore, which is highlighted by the white sand beaches.

Featuring Leyte Province - Solo-Backpacking in Region 8

The McArthur Landing Memorial Park in Palo, Leyte, is one of the most visited landmarks in the Province or even in the Philippines; this is to commemorate the historical landing of General Douglas MacArthur. The actual landing in October of 1944 was the start of the liberation of the Philippines from the Japanese occupation – the Second World War. The statues were created by Anastacio Caedo. The significance of this park can be read on the historical markers placed in front of the park.

Featuring Biliran Province - Solo-Backpacking in Region 8

Biliran has a lot of stunning tourist spots and destinations to offer. Ulan-Ulan Falls and Tinago Falls are famous and majestic waterfalls hiding in the Province's mountains. Naval, its capital, is now highly urbanized, making it easy for travellers to discover and experience what they have. Since it has many mountainous areas, nature's magnificence is still waiting to be discovered. Not only that, they also have stunning beaches, great products, and friendly people.