Ilocos Norte: Gem of the North

Traveling in a big group has its perks, you could just rent a van and let your driver take you to all the nice places. Our group only had to plan for accommodations and I am glad to have met a group of frugal friendly travelers who were up for anything. For a three-day trip, our contribution per person for the land arrangements, breakfast, and homestay was only 2,200 pesos, and this also includes our short stint in Ilocos Sur. Anyhow, for the remaining two days we took our time on seeing some of the most popular attractions in the different areas of Ilocos Norte.

The Seven Falls of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

South Cotabato has proven to be one of Mindanao's best kept secrets that is now aggressively gaining popularity. After our adventure at Lake Holon at T'boli, we were headed for Lake Sebu to see more of what the province has to offer. The mountain town of Lake Sebu, also famous for its three lakes: Lake Sebu, Lake Seloton and Lake Lahit, is also home to the indigenous T'boli community . Aside from that, it also boasts of various natural treasures: lush forests and plantations, placid lakes, rivers and waterfalls that will surely prove to be worthwhile to visit.

One of the seven waterfalls of Lake Sebu, this lovely sight will greet you after a refreshing zipline ride

Tinuy-an Falls: Pride of Bislig, Surigao del Sur

Our second day at Surigao del Sur was a bit jam-packed, though we had enough time to appreciate the beauty of Enchanted River of Hinatuan and see the passion for toys and food by the married couple Willimans at Ocean View Park at Bislig, we were soon at a habal-habal ride for our last stop at this province, Tinuy-an Falls. It was a bit bittersweet to have our tour of the province end soon as we were juggling with a tight schedule, but I am glad I was able to fit all the highlights of Surigao del Sur within two days.

Tinuy-an Falls, Surigao del Sur