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(5)Located in Camarines Sur, the wakeboarding capital of the country, Camarines Sur Water Complex is renowned for its world-class facilities. If you're planning to go wakeboarding, it will only cost you 180 PHP or 3.2 USD per hour. Apart from the watersport, they also offer cabins for accommodation and an on-site restaurant. Massage services and other land activities are available as well, including ATV and bike rentals.
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When you're in Daet, one experience you shouldn't miss is watching the sunrise at Bagasbas. One of my fondest memories here is jogging to Bagasbas in the early morning darkness, waiting for the sun to rise while savoring a cup of taho, a popular Filipino snack made from tofu. There are plenty of restaurants and eateries in the area where you can have your breakfast. My personal favorite is Hoogpaan, a beachfront restaurant known for its hearty meals. Don't forget to try their tapsilog.
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A touch of Amsterdam in Cebu, Sirao Flower Farm showcases numerous flowering plants. Instead of tulips, they feature celosia flowers. Many tourists visit this place to have their pictures taken due to its numerous photo-op installations, reminiscent of the ones you'd find in Bali. The entrance fee is only 100 PHP, which is approximately 2 USD.
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A famous religious site in Cebu, the Taoist Temple is a must-visit attraction, even for non-believers, due to its beautiful architecture and uninterrupted view of Cebu. If I'm not mistaken, you'll have to climb approximately a hundred stair steps to reach the main temple. While you're here, you can also light incense and make a wish.
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You cannot visit Cebu without seeing Magellan's Cross. It is located in a pavilion in Plaza Sugbo near the Basilica del Santo Niño. This is usually a part of the city tour in Cebu if you choose to avail of one. Upon arrival at the plaza, you'll be welcomed by many candle vendors asking you to buy candles. In return, they will take your picture with the cross and pray for you afterwards. Mind you, they take the best photos, so make sure you buy candles from them.
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Boracay is renowned for its white sand beach and picturesque sunsets, but the best way to view and experience the sunset is by joining a paraw sailing tour. The boat is called 'paraw' in the Cebuano language. I've tried it, and it's an experience on its own. Imagine the scenic view, the sound of the waves, and the water splashing on your feet.
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An open-air museum in Bataan, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar showcases 18th and 19th century architecture. The resort will take you into another world, a world you only see in the movies and read about in your history books. It will let you experience old Philippines. Aside from the old houses, the furniture, and the arts, the place also has its own private beach, and a cultural show in the morning. They also offer guided tours for you to learn more about the houses and their past owners. My visit here is a memorable one because it happened in March 2020, before the world closed because of the pandemic. The stay at their hotel is also an experience cause you don't know if it's haunted or not. Don't just avail the day tour but stay the night for it's all worth it.
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A view from Scape Skydeck, a rooftop bar in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. It's my first time here, my second time in Cebu, but I'm glad we chose to visit this place. They offer mouth-watering food and great music, which isn't deafening and allows for easy conversation. However, what truly set the evening apart was the breathtaking view of Cebu City at night, where the sparkling city lights feel like a sea of stars. The city lights and great company make anyone feel nostalgic.
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I know, I know, when I mention Din Tai Fung, Xiaolongbao is the first thing that comes to mind, and I don't blame you; it's the bomb, literally and figuratively, if you know what I mean. But, mind you, you should also add to your order their shrimp and egg fried rice. It has a hint of butter, a subtle taste of the greens, and then the egg—you know what it tastes like, it makes the dish even more savory! Also, they did not skimp on the shrimp. Plus, it is the perfect pairing for the dim sums you'll order. ❤️🍚
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One of the hidden gems of Sorsogon, a province in the Bicol region, is Paguriran Island. It is an islet with a lagoon in the middle. The island is a short walk from the white beach and is only knee-deep during low tide. The island is mostly composed of jagged rock formations. When we visited, it was low tide, so we were able to walk from the shore to the island, while some tourists still opted to go there via boat. Another great thing about this tourist spot is that it's less than an hour away from the capital city of Sorsogon. This could be one of your stops as you visit other attractions in the area, including Lola Sayong Surf Camp, Rizal Beach, and Tulay sa Tibo, which is a mangrove sanctuary."
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