Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Ten-Ten's treasured moments

I have been to many wonderful places in Paradise Philippines, but there is one place, I consider very close to my heart – Palawan. There, I spent my last few days with my sisters before coming to Dubai.

Having lived in the province for some time, I was right to expect the same air, the all familiar smell of road dusts, and the noise of tricycle motors in the busy streets of Puerto Princesa. I admit, I wanted to be astounded with the spectacular views of the city when we got off the plane, and yet there were no signs of excitement in the place, until...

The following day, we left the city to go to the outskirts of Palawan. We were on the road for long hours; m y sisters and I were too tired to see the rocky mountains of Palawan, in anticipation of the clear blue waters the tour guide was blabbing about for hours. Finally, after the long and tiring drive and a short ferryboat trip, we were in awe of the beautiful landscape and seascape Palawan had presented.

The islands were so beautiful, very naked and yet very mystifying; the water was so clear and yet, it seemed to draw you deep into an abyss. It was the spell of paradise, I realized - to enchant our hearts and look into the depths of our souls. We were captivated by its flawlessness, no doubt.

It was truly a joy to have shared it with my sisters. Our few days there were like the longest and one of my treasured moments at home – indeed a paradise at its best.

Sunday, October 14, 2007

Paradise Philippines Volcano Tourism

You know the old saying that if life gives you a lemon, make lemonaide?
Well, the Paradise Philippines is now planning to start a new trend: Volcano Tourism.

The hottest “tourist destination” in Luzon are the eco tourism groups visiting the devestation around Mt Pinatubo.

There are nature tours of the region, which stress the devastation and the natural recovery of the ecosystem, along with teaching about the traditional ways of the local people. Of course, swimming in the crater’s lake is also available for those healthy enough to climb to the top…

But if you like less “Mordor” like scenery, try hiking up the Mayon volcano instead.