It's More Fun In the Philippines

                

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his is the new slogan of the Philippine’s Department of Tourism (DOT) for the year 2012 which encourages everyone both domestic and foreign enthusiasts alike to experience this wonderful opportunity here in my home country. I am really proud and happy to be a Filipino that I have given the blessing to embrace God’s wonder of nature and experience the fun and excitement here in the Philippines.



Stalactites and stalagmites


In the midst of economic meltdown that the world is experiencing, political turmoil, and dissension between and among nations in some parts of the world, there are still more reasons to experience fun, relaxation and joy within ourselves by transcending our mind and body to the wonders of nature around us. I am really a nature lover and would like always to appreciate the world around us, the environment, and the people who are considered stewards of these God’s creations. One can indeed experience fun and excitement in the Philippines for the following reasons, which I find worth sharing to all of you guys.

Fun and excitement in the Philippines is evident from the beautiful scenic spots that are truly worth experiencing. These include, among other things, Baguio’s Banaue Rice Terraces, Albay’s perfect cone-shaped Mayon Volcano and Talisay, Batangas’ Taal Volcano, Maria Cristina Falls, Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, and the recent official Seven Wonders of Nature – my favorite Palawan’s Subterranean Underground River which is considered as the longest river in the whole world, and breathtaking Pagudpud Island–a perfect get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, an ideal place for self-reflection and relaxation,  to name just a few. As one travels through the thicket of forest trees, exotic flora and fauna, pristine waters, and cool, fresh air, one can really say that God has His own ways of showering His blessings to His children on earth.  It takes a lot of introspection to re-examine ourselves and appreciate the beauty of our environment. In all instances, however, our appreciation of nature and environment cannot be measured not only by traveling to wonderful places but also taking steps towards environmental protection even in our own little ways.



The cave

It is our responsibility as citizens of planet earth to protect and safeguard the environment by taking active role in various programs and activities that are geared towards preservation and conservation of our environment in our respective areas of responsibility in our own home country. Thus, I firmly believe that the fun and excitement here in the Philippines does not only espouse the country’s tourism industry but also inculcates in our minds our sacred duty as citizens of Planet Earth to appreciate its wonder and ultimately protect and conserve the environment.



You can feel the fresh air while entering the river

The warm, hospitable, and friendly people comprising the 7,107 islands of my country is another reason that adds fun and excitement to the beautiful islands in the Pearl of the Orient Sea. Other than the beautiful scenic spots, the factors that naturally attract one’s interest and enthusiasm are the joyful heart, friendliness, hospitality, and unity among Filipinos. These unique characteristics serve as our springboard to remain steadfast in our dream to go beyond what is before us and to rise above all odds in spite of all the hardships and challenges we had to go through as a nation.

Of course, fun and excitement here in the Philippines will never be complete without the gastronomical welcome treats and the special delicacies of our respective provinces such as adobo, lechon, penakbet, laing, bagnet, so on and so forth. The list all of other mouth-watering good food is endless and I am pretty sure gourmet/connoisseur out there will surely love it (he..he..he..). It is especially significant to vicariously experience the fun-filled food tripping here for we are proud that every delicacy we have is peppered with our rich cultural history and unique tradition.

I am encouraging you all guys to find time to experience your own tourist destinations there in your home country before embarking or planning to visit other equally foreign beautiful countries. We are lucky we have given the earth’s bounty of nature manifested through these wondrous places in our respective countries. Hence, it is opportune time to appreciate all of them.



Lush green trees at Pagudpud



While you are exploring the beauty of your own country, don’t forget one time in your life to appreciate wonders of nature of other countries, too.  Even though some have not gotten the chance yet these days to travel outside our home country for economic reasons; however, these must not prevent us to appreciate the splendor and magnificence of the earth’s wondrous beauty, mesmerize to our domestic nature’s grandeur, experience the friendliness and warmth of our local folks, and enamored with the enjoyable taste of the food in the banquet.

For the foregoing reasons, I can truly say “It’s more fun in the Philippines.” According to ~St. Augustine, the World is a book, and those who do not travel have read only a page. It is indeed true that the priceless memories and unforgettable journey starts with one step of embarking to a new whole fun and adventure. I would like you guys to experience fun and excitement someday, too. Happy traveling!! Enjoy and be happy always.

 

Crystal Clear Water. It is also a nice place for windsurfing!!!