• Destinations
      • North & Central America

        Countries

        • USA
        • Canada
        • Mexico
        • Puerto Rico
        • Dominican Republic

        Popular Destinations

        • Alaska
        • Anchorage
        • Austin
        • Bermuda
        • Boston
        • Calgary
        • California
        • Cancun
        • Cayman Islands
        • Chicago
        View all Destinations in North & Central America
      • South America

        Countries

        • Brazil
        • Argentina
        • Colombia
        • Peru
        • Chile

        Popular Destinations

        • Bogota
        • Lima
        • Rio de Janeiro
        • Santiago
        View all Destinations in South America
      • Europe

        Countries

        • UK
        • Italy
        • France
        • Spain
        • Germany

        Popular Destinations

        • Amalfi
        • Athens
        • Berlin
        • Budapest
        • Dublin
        • Dubrovnik
        • Lisbon
        • London
        • Amsterdam
        • Barcelona
        View all Destinations in Europe
      • Asia

        Countries

        • India
        • Pakistan
        • Philippines
        • Japan
        • Thailand

        Popular Destinations

        • Bali
        • Bangkok
        • Beijing
        • New Delhi
        • Goa
        • Ho Chi Minh City
        • Hong Kong
        • Kyoto
        • Seoul
        • Shanghai
        View all Destinations in Asia
      • Africa

        Countries

        • South Africa
        • Egypt
        • Kenya
        • Morocco
        • Tanzania

        Popular Destinations

        • Botswana
        • Cairo
        • Cape Town
        • Johannesburg
        • Marrakech
        • Mauritius
        • Nairobi
        • Zanzibar
        View all Destinations in Africa
      • Middle East

        Countries

        • United Arab Emirates
        • Israel
        • Qatar
        • Lebanon

        Popular Destinations

        • Abu Dhabi
        • Amman
        • Doha
        • Dubai
        • Istanbul
        View all Destinations in Middle East
      • Oceania

        Countries

        • Australia
        • New Zealand
        • Fiji
        • Guam
        • French Polynesia

        Popular Destinations

        • Auckland
        • Brisbane
        • Hobart
        • Melbourne
        • Perth
        • Sydney
        • Tahiti
        • Tasmania
        View all Destinations in Oceania
      • All Destinations
    • Countries

      • USA
      • Canada
      • Mexico
      • Puerto Rico
      • Dominican Republic

      Popular Destinations

      • Alaska
      • Anchorage
      • Austin
      • Bermuda
      • Boston
      • Calgary
      • California
      • Cancun
      • Cayman Islands
      • Chicago
      View all Destinations in North & Central America

      Countries

      • Brazil
      • Argentina
      • Colombia
      • Peru
      • Chile

      Popular Destinations

      • Bogota
      • Lima
      • Rio de Janeiro
      • Santiago
      View all Destinations in South America

      Countries

      • UK
      • Italy
      • France
      • Spain
      • Germany

      Popular Destinations

      • Amalfi
      • Athens
      • Berlin
      • Budapest
      • Dublin
      • Dubrovnik
      • Lisbon
      • London
      • Amsterdam
      • Barcelona
      View all Destinations in Europe

      Countries

      • India
      • Pakistan
      • Philippines
      • Japan
      • Thailand

      Popular Destinations

      • Bali
      • Bangkok
      • Beijing
      • New Delhi
      • Goa
      • Ho Chi Minh City
      • Hong Kong
      • Kyoto
      • Seoul
      • Shanghai
      View all Destinations in Asia

      Countries

      • South Africa
      • Egypt
      • Kenya
      • Morocco
      • Tanzania

      Popular Destinations

      • Botswana
      • Cairo
      • Cape Town
      • Johannesburg
      • Marrakech
      • Mauritius
      • Nairobi
      • Zanzibar
      View all Destinations in Africa

      Countries

      • United Arab Emirates
      • Israel
      • Qatar
      • Lebanon

      Popular Destinations

      • Abu Dhabi
      • Amman
      • Doha
      • Dubai
      • Istanbul
      View all Destinations in Middle East

      Countries

      • Australia
      • New Zealand
      • Fiji
      • Guam
      • French Polynesia

      Popular Destinations

      • Auckland
      • Brisbane
      • Hobart
      • Melbourne
      • Perth
      • Sydney
      • Tahiti
      • Tasmania
      View all Destinations in Oceania
  • Airbnb & Vacation Rentals
      Airbnb & Vacation Rentals View all Vacation Rentals
    • Airbnb
    • Vrbo
    • Bookabach
    • Stayz
    • Vacasa
    • Glamping
    • Camping
    • Vacation Rentals
    • Yurts
    • Airbnb Mansion
    • Villa Rental
    • Pet Friendly Cabins
    • Cabins With Hot Tubs
    • Secluded Cabins
    • Vacation Rentals With Private Pool
    • Lakefront Rentals
    • Pet Friendly Airbnb
    • Airbnb Monthly
    • Cheap Airbnbs
    • Luxury Airbnb
    • Airbnb Hot Tubs
  • Hotels & Resorts
      Hotels & Resorts View all Hotels
    • Resorts
    • Motels
    • Homestay
    • Hotels With Hot Tubs
    • Hotels With Pools
    • Luxury Hotels
    • Boutique Hotels
    • Hotels With Kitchen
    • Cheap Hotels
    • Beachfront Hotels
    • Pet Friendly Hotels
    • Hotels With Water Parks
    • Hotels With Rooftop Pool
    • Hotels With Infinity Pool
    • Adults Only Hotels
    • 2 Bedroom Hotels
    • Family Resorts
    • All Inclusive Resorts
    • Romantic Getaways
    • Beach Resorts
  • Unique Stays
      Unique Stays View all Unique Stays
    • Houseboats
    • Fishing Lodges
    • Long Term Rentals
    • Farm Stays
    • Wellness Retreats
    • Ski Resorts
    • Yoga Retreats
    • Campgrounds
    • Golf Resorts
    • Glass Igloo
    • RV Rentals
    • Yacht Charter
    • Dive Resorts
  • Things to do
      Things to do View all Things to do
    • Things To Do
    • Things To Do At Night
    • Festivals
    • Theme Parks
    • Shopping Malls
    • Hiking
    • Street Food
    • Weekend Getaways
    • Road Trips
    • Day Trips From
  • Videos
    • Log in to:
    • Bookmark articles
    • Give thumbs-up to expert tips
    • Receive inspiring stories in your inbox
    • Follow your favorite writers and topics
  1. Home
  2. Local Experts
  3. George Bacani

Local Expert Tips

(29)

Traveller Tips

(15)

Endorsed Articles

(7)

10 Best Hotels In Pampanga, Philippines

Booking a stay here speaks convenience as the hotel is located within a commerci...
Philippines 0
Tom N Toms Coffee Black
Luzon 0

12 Best Hotels In San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

The location of this hotel is great for nightlife and exploring the local food s...

12 Best Hotels In San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

Any traveler will adore the convenient location of this boutique hotel. I love t...
Luzon 0
outdoor pool area
Luzon 0

12 Best Hotels In San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

As a lover of old-world charm, I enjoyed the staycation I had at Hamanda Hotel (...
Sky Ranch Pampanga
Luzon 0

12 Best Hotels In San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

Those staying here with their kids can check out the nearby amusement park calle...
JASA Road during Christmas Season
Philippines 0

Top 8 Staycation Spots In Pampanga, The Philippines

If you're from other parts of Pampanga and visiting during the "ber" months, I h...
SandBox Pampanga
Philippines 0

10 Best Hotels In Angeles, Philippines

To make your trip to Angeles City more exciting, make sure to head over to SandB...

Top 10 Hotels In Olongapo, Philippines

This accommodation is very backpacker-friendly. I once recommended it to a frien...
Olongapo 0

Top 10 Hotels In Olongapo, Philippines

We enjoyed the Mexican dishes offered at Playa Papagayo Beach Inn. The in-house ...
Olongapo 0

Top 10 Hotels In Olongapo, Philippines

The location of ACME Inn along Magsaysay Drive, Olongapo City's central business...
Olongapo 0

4 Best Resorts With Pool In Olongapo, Philippines

Sneakerheads would want to take advantage of the Nike Factory Outlet near this p...
Olongapo 0
Vista Mall
Philippines 0

10 Best Airbnbs With Pool In Pampanga, Philippines

Do maximize the strategic location of this accommodation during your stay. I lik...
Tom N Toms Coffee Black Tom N Toms Coffee Black
Luzon ×

The location of this hotel is great for nightlife and exploring the local food scene. I highly recommend venturing out to nearby establishments for lunch,  dinner, or even snack time. One of the newly opened cafes in the area is Tom N Toms Coffee Black, which is just a quick stroll from the hotel. Although the two-story cafe is big, with an al fresco area to boot, it can get packed during peak hours. My friends and I love going there early in the afternoon or an hour before their closing time for our caffeine fix.

- George Bacani
12 Best Hotels In San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

outdoor pool area outdoor pool area
Luzon ×

As a lover of old-world charm, I enjoyed the staycation I had at Hamanda Hotel (it was still named Souq Hotel back then). The place was brimming with artsy and rustic touches in nearly every corner. I loved every detail of our room with a balcony. The outdoor pool could have been an excellent addition if only it was bigger - feels a bit cramped when more than 4 people are taking a dip at the same time. 

I also liked the fact that properly sits right along Lazatin Boulevard, a sought-after commercial district brimming with restaurants, cafes, and bars. Should you plan to enjoy local food, you'll find lots of options when you step outside the property. The best part is that most of them are within walking distance!

- George Bacani
12 Best Hotels In San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

Sky Ranch Pampanga Sky Ranch Pampanga
Luzon ×

Those staying here with their kids can check out the nearby amusement park called Sky Ranch Pampanga. This attraction is always a hit with my little nephews and nieces because of the wide variety of rides available. Kids at heart can conquer their fear of heights in the ride Pampanga Eye, a Ferris wheel that's 65 meters tall. I advise that you take advantage of the ride-all-you-can tickets if you have plenty of time to spare.

In terms of the location, this hotel is situated right within a business district, so those attending conferences and tradeshows in the area would find it an ideal accommodation. Plus, restaurants are aplenty and within walking distance!

- George Bacani
12 Best Hotels In San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

JASA Road during Christmas Season
Philippines ×

If you're from other parts of Pampanga and visiting during the "ber" months, I highly recommend that you pass or simply take a stroll along Jose Abad Santos Avenue (JASA) nearby, also known as the Olongapo–Gapan Road and the Gapan–San Fernando–Olongapo Road, during nighttime. To get in tune with the city's moniker "Christmas Capital of the Philippines", this major highway is annually decorated for the holiday season, with breathtaking street lanterns and other decors on display. The road is usually dressed up as early as September, and locals and tourists alike await the highway's yuletide 'look'. I like driving along this highway, particularly during this season as I get to feast on glistening lights that intensify my excitement for Christmas. But if you're visiting outside the holiday season, this commercial-business road can entice your palate. From fast food to local restaurants, JASA has something for every foodie out there.

- George Bacani
Top 8 Staycation Spots In Pampanga, The Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

SandBox Pampanga
Philippines ×

To make your trip to Angeles City more exciting, make sure to head over to SandBox Pampanga. My friends and I went here a few years back and we've had one of our most memorable summers together after college. The area, though located within a private residential community, offers a great contrast to the urban fun within the city. It is idyllic for travelers who want to experience adventure without venturing too far. So if you want to embark on thrilling zipline rides, giant swings, and more, be sure to enjoy the outdoors at SandBox just like we did!

- George Bacani
10 Best Hotels In Angeles, Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

Vista Mall  Yoshimeatsu San Fernando  Yoshimeatsu San Fernando
Philippines ×

Do maximize the strategic location of this accommodation during your stay. I like that it is only a short distance away from Vista Mall, one of my go-to places for entertainment and pigging out. The mall is where my friends and I usually catch the latest blockbuster flick, grab good coffee, and pig out. If you're lucky, you'll be treated to a free concert through the mall's occasional shows featuring local talents. The Korean restaurant beside the mall, Yoshimeatsu San Fernando, is also a must-visit for unlimited servings of your favorite meat.

A thriving business area, the location is also dotted with several fast food options and local cafes so travelers with discerning tastes will surely find something appetizing within the neighborhood. Public transport is easily accessible but for first-time travelers, taking a Grab is the best option when getting around.

- George Bacani
10 Best Airbnbs With Pool In Pampanga, Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

Dinosaur Island
Luzon 0

Have A Fun-Filled Family Getaway In Mabalacat, Pampanga

This attraction can also be an opportunity for kids to stay active. I love that ...
Mount Pinatubo Trekking
Luzon 0

Have A Fun-Filled Family Getaway In Mabalacat, Pampanga

As someone who has hiked and climbed several mountains from other provinces in L...

18 Best Things To Do In Subic Bay Freeport Zone, The Philippines

You will pass by Funtastic Park if you are heading to Zoobic Safari, Camaya...
Subic Bay 0
Ocean Adventure
Subic Bay 0

18 Best Things To Do In Subic Bay Freeport Zone, The Philippines

The various shows and performances here are scheduled at specific times of the d...
Breadtime, Subic Bay
Subic Bay 0

18 Best Things To Do In Subic Bay Freeport Zone, The Philippines

This restaurant also has a cute little cafe and bakeshop called Breadtime right ...
Tree Top Adventure
Subic Bay 0

18 Best Things To Do In Subic Bay Freeport Zone, The Philippines

Remember to dress for the occasion. People usually go here for a side trip not r...
Camayan
Subic Bay 0

18 Best Things To Do In Subic Bay Freeport Zone, The Philippines

Should you feel like breaking a sweat or keeping up with your active lifestyle, ...
Oslob whale shark watching
Visayan Islands 0

7 Awesome Things To Do In Oslob, Philippines

Its better to arrive as early as 5 am to the registration venue. We got there at...
Sumilon Island
Visayan Islands 0

7 Awesome Things To Do In Oslob, Philippines

It's actually hard to catch the infamous sand bar of Sumilon Island. I've been t...
Canyoneering in Kawasan falls
Moalboal 0

12 Best Things To Do In Moalboal, Philippines

The town of Moalboal was one of the badly hit areas in Cebu during the onslaught...
 Ili-Likha Artist Village
Baguio 0

Top 24 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Baguio, Philippines

If a delectable food trip is part of your agenda, be sure to check out the artsy...
Mirador Heritage and Eco Park
Baguio 0

Top 10 Homestays In Baguio, Philippines

Those who are staying here would want to take advantage of its strategic locatio...
Dinosaur Island Dinosaur Island
Luzon ×

This attraction can also be an opportunity for kids to stay active. I love that kiddie zip lines, wall climbing, and bike and go-kart rentals are available to keep the trip action-packed yet kid-friendly. I am certain that even the kids-at-heart will equally adore the life-size images of various dinosaurs! The entire park is filled with lush vegetation so scheduling your visit even during the peak of summer months wouldn't be much of a hassle for the whole family. 

- George Bacani
Have A Fun-Filled Family Getaway In Mabalacat, Pampanga

#LocalExpertTip

Mount Pinatubo Trekking Mount Pinatubo Trekking Mount Pinatubo Trekking
Luzon ×

As someone who has hiked and climbed several mountains from other provinces in Luzon, I say that Mount Pinatubo will always hold a special place in my adventure-seeking heart. There is nothing like a hike that comes complete with an exciting 4x4 ride, desert sand and river crossings, and scenic views. The breathtaking scenery that awaits at Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake is truly a priceless reward for all hikers. This trek is beginner-friendly but can quite be taxing in some aspects as there are almost no shaded areas along the trails. Expect to be kissed by the sun tremendously! :D

- George Bacani
Have A Fun-Filled Family Getaway In Mabalacat, Pampanga

#LocalExpertTip

Ocean Adventure Ocean Adventure Ocean Adventure
Subic Bay ×

The various shows and performances here are scheduled at specific times of the day, so it's best that you allot a full day to maximize your visit. We spent around 6 to 7 hours, including lunch and snack breaks, in the whole area because we opted to see as many shows as we could. I recommend that you visit the aquariums and other exhibits when there is no performance scheduled in any of the performance venues. You can refer to the pamphlets provided by the staff to plan your tour of this adventure park. 

- George Bacani
18 Best Things To Do In Subic Bay Freeport Zone, The Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

Breadtime, Subic Bay
Subic Bay ×

This restaurant also has a cute little cafe and bakeshop called Breadtime right next to it. If you want to grab a snack on your way back home or savor something sweet after a satisfying meal, you can check out the shop's menu. Whenever I feel like having a fancy afternoon, I go here and order an iced latte and a slice of cake. If my friends are up for some cozy chit-chat, we just hang out here together in the comfort of the cafe's chocolate cake and ice-blended drinks. 

- George Bacani
18 Best Things To Do In Subic Bay Freeport Zone, The Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

Tree Top Adventure Tree Top Adventure
Subic Bay ×

Remember to dress for the occasion. People usually go here for a side trip not realizing that the tour includes short hikes and exciting rides. I suggest that you wear your trusty rubber shoes and the comfiest OOTD. 

- George Bacani
18 Best Things To Do In Subic Bay Freeport Zone, The Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

Camayan Camayan Camayan
Subic Bay ×

Should you feel like breaking a sweat or keeping up with your active lifestyle, you can consider jogging or running in the area. The surrounding roads always feel safe as a ranger station is close by. I enjoyed all my morning and late afternoon runs along the roads that lead to Camaya Beach Resort. The scenic ocean can be spotted right from its parking space and is a view in itself! Just beware that little monkeys are found in the area. They're generally friendly, but the public is discouraged from having any interaction with them. 

- George Bacani
18 Best Things To Do In Subic Bay Freeport Zone, The Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

Oslob whale shark watching Oslob whale shark watching Oslob whale shark watching
Visayan Islands ×

Its better to arrive as early as 5 am to the registration venue. We got there at around 6:10 am, and we were welcomed by an already long line. Our group ended up being 79th in the queue for the boat rides going to the whale shark viewing and swimming area. To make better use of our time, we went back to our accommodation and had breakfast while waiting for our number to be called. We had our turn at around 9 am, and the long wait was definitely worth it! 

The registration for local guests and foreigners have separate lanes, but both can get really packed, especially during weekends, according to our tour guide.

- George Bacani
7 Awesome Things To Do In Oslob, Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

Sumilon Island
Visayan Islands ×

It's actually hard to catch the infamous sand bar of Sumilon Island. I've been to this pristine island thrice, and I've only had the chance to feel its sand bar in my toes during my first visit. Nevertheless, the place is still worth the trip with or without the view of the sand bar because of the crystal clear waters and sweeping views from the viewing deck and several rock formations. During one of my trips here, our group opted to have lunch on the island, which was made possible by our tour provider. You can also do the same, provided you clean up as you go and eat only at designated places. Food and drinks are strictly prohibited at the beach.

- George Bacani
7 Awesome Things To Do In Oslob, Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

Canyoneering in Kawasan falls Canyoneering in Kawasan falls Canyoneering in Kawasan falls
Moalboal ×

The town of Moalboal was one of the badly hit areas in Cebu during the onslaught of typhoon Odette this 2023, and Kawasan Falls was one of the natural sights that was immensely affected. I've been to this waterfall twice before the typhoon and I was happy to see during my third visit that its natural beauty was still intact despite experiencing the grit of Mother Nature. Adventure seekers should try out canyoneering going to the first level (which is also the highest) of Kawasan Falls. This exhilarating experience is, without fail, always among the highlights of my trips to Cebu.

- George Bacani
12 Best Things To Do In Moalboal, Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

 Ili-Likha Artist Village  Ili-Likha Artist Village  Ili-Likha Artist Village
Baguio ×

If a delectable food trip is part of your agenda, be sure to check out the artsy food park called Ili-Likha Artist Village, which is just a quick stroll from this vacation rental. I was surprised at how this quaint dining destination is hidden along the bustling streets of Session Road. There are 9 different restaurants to try here, but the crafty allure of Cafe Cueva enticed us more during our visit. I opted to pair the authentic vibe with a local dish, so I ordered the Kiniling (Smoked Pork) Alfredo and Kiniling Sandwich. These meals were the perfect introduction to this hidden gem of a food joint!

- George Bacani
Top 24 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Baguio, Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

Mirador Heritage and Eco Park Mirador Heritage and Eco Park Mirador Heritage and Eco Park
Baguio ×

Those who are staying here would want to take advantage of its strategic location. It is just a short driving distance to what I consider one of Baguio's top attractions, the Mirador Heritage and Eco Park. It has always been my go-to spot whenever I visit Baguio and would want to catch sight of the quieter side of the city. And the best time to visit? During sunset, of course, when the hillside is showered with striking hues of the gold hour! The famous spot for picture taking could really get crowded, but you'll surely find a place where you can unwind in solitude as the vast park has many overlooking spots.

- George Bacani
Top 10 Homestays In Baguio, Philippines

#LocalExpertTip

10 Best Hotels In Angeles, Philippines

10 Best Hotels In Angeles, Philippines

Top 10 Hotels In Olongapo, Philippines

Top 10 Hotels In Olongapo, Philippines

10 Best Airbnbs With Pool In Pampanga, Philippines

10 Best Airbnbs With Pool In Pampanga, Philippines

Top 11 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Olongapo, Philippines

Top 11 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Olongapo, Philippines

4 Best Resorts With Pool In Olongapo, Philippines

4 Best Resorts With Pool In Olongapo, Philippines

6 Best Beach Resorts In Olongapo, Philippines

6 Best Beach Resorts In Olongapo, Philippines

10 Best Things To Do In Olongapo, Philippines

10 Best Things To Do In Olongapo, Philippines

Share your city’s best-kept secrets and join our
Local Expert Programme

Are you a long-time resident of your hometown or city? Do you possess a wealth of insider knowledge about local hotspots? If your answer is yes, then you’re in the right place!
This is a great opportunity for locals like you to share insider knowledge and useful tips with travelers from around the world. You can tell our readers about your favorite hidden gems, restaurants, scenic parks, and more, and help others enjoy an unforgettable trip to your city. The best part? When you make a contribution, you can earn and accumulate credits that you can redeem for cash vouchers! For more details, check out this page. If you want to get started, sign up here.
LET'S CONNECT
Become Our Local Expert
Want to contribute to our content as a Local Expert?
Register Here
  • Vacation Rentals

    Airbnb

  • Hotels

    Hotels

  • Car Rentals

 Search the best Airbnb Vacation Rentals
Lowest price guaranteed
Powered by
Search the best hotel deals
Lowest price guaranteed
Powered by Booking Logo
Search for Car Hire
Good things are meant to be shared!
Create an account to
  • Bookmark our articles
  • Give your favorite local expert tips a thumbs up
  • Receive great stories in your inbox
  • Follow writers and topics that you love
Log in with Google

PLACES

  • All Destinations
  • North & Central America
  • South America
  • Europe
  • Asia
  • Africa
  • Middle East
  • Oceania

STAY & EXPLORE

  • Hotels
  • Vacation Rentals
  • Unique Stays
  • Things to do

Get in Touch

  • - About us
  • - Our team
  • - Our methodology
  • - Our partners
  • - Partner with us
  • - Contact Us
  • - Careers
  • - Advertise With Us
  • - Become Our Local Expert
  • - Terms of Use
  • - Privacy Policy
  • - Use of Cookies
  • - Press

Follow Us

COPYRIGHT © 2026 TRIP101 Pte Ltd    Trip101 Logo    Venture Republic Logo    Travel jp Logo

Back to top