Tag: adventure

DOT, GRAB launch eco-friendly “ride” in Intramuros

MEDIA RELEASE

28 August 2019

Intramuros, Manila — Exploring historic Intramuros can now be more fun!

This, after the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Intramuros Administration (IA) and Grab Philippines forged a partnership that will launch “GrabWheels”,  a two-wheel, personal mobility device (PMD) that tourists can use to roam around  the picturesque Walled City.

In the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed today between IA and Grab, the latter committed the deployment of at least 30 units of GrabWheels, to be made available for the use of the public within Intramuros, free-of-charge for a period of three months.

“This is in keeping with the efforts of the DOT to inculcate a culture of sustainable tourism. This is what we envision to do to some, and ideally, to all of our destinations. We want visitors to have access to an eco-friendly but fun mode of transportation,” said Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat who was present during the MOU signing.

Puyat stressed, “Sustainability demands that our planning and resources management must be responsible. Conversely, it should also maintain a high level of satisfaction and ensure meaningful experience of our tourists. This partnership, hopefully, will raise their awareness about environmental issues and allow them to experience first-hand these sustainable tourism practices.”

Atty. Guiller Asido of the IA noted that these PMDs will provide less carbon footprintand likewise significantly reduce traffic congestion, a major problem in the area.

“This is just a pilot test. After a month, we will review its reception and determine the necessary mechanisms and setting of fees to make it sustainable,” said Asido.

Meanwhile, Grab also committed to promote Philippine tourism by disseminating tourism materials produced and developed by the DOT and its attached agencies through its massive fleet of operators.

Photos:

  • Some of the units of GrabWheels to be made available for the use of the public within Intramuros, free-of-charge for a period of three months.
  • Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat tries one of the Grabwheels.
  • Some of the units of GrabWheels to be made available for the use of the public within Intramuros, free-of-charge for a period of three months.

GUILLAUME NERY FREEDIVING WORKSHOP

The Department of Tourism – Philippines is excited to host the freediving workshops of world champion Guillaume Néry this July and August, 2017.There would also be a meet and greet for fans in Mactan, Cebu on July 20, 2017.

The Department of Tourism – Philippines is excited to host the freediving workshops of world champion Guillaume Néry this July and August, 2017.
There would also be a meet and greet for fans in Mactan, Cebu on July 20, 2017.

Guillaume Nery Main Poster A4 size

Best souvenir in Kalinga: A tattoo from the Philippines’ oldest artist, Apo Whang-od Culture

With technology rapidly changing, traditional culture is gradually being forgotten. While the city life can bring all your aspirations in life, it can certainly break the wild soul within you. Sometimes all you need to divert your busy schedule from falling apart is through experiencing a laid-back adventure travel where you can’t be disturbed. A … Continue reading “Best souvenir in Kalinga: A tattoo from the Philippines’ oldest artist, Apo Whang-od Culture”

With technology rapidly changing, traditional culture is gradually being forgotten. While the city life can bring all your aspirations in life, it can certainly break the wild soul within you. Sometimes all you need to divert your busy schedule from falling apart is through experiencing a laid-back adventure travel where you can’t be disturbed. A meaningful trip to the Northern Philippines may be just the place for you!

The Philippines is known for its colorful and unique culture and this can be greatly seen in the provinces of Kalinga, Ifugao, and Mountain Province in Northern Philippines.  Sagada, a perfect destination where one can witness the beauty of both tangible and intangible things. You can experience the incomparable nature and unparalleled culture you have yet to discover. Home to 31 ethnic groups, Sagada has a lot of different adventure tours to offer. It is not only blessed with gorgeous sights and attractions but also with different stories of the people whose lives are greatly influenced by what their ancestors have passed down upon them. Sagada is more than just capturing the picturesque nature itself but also what they had to go through to get them to where they are now.

Usual activities such as trekking, visiting the hanging caves, hiking, or gastronomic hopping can be all fun and exciting but if you’re feeling that you need an upgrade from the usuals, you could simply try something new. Take a side trip to Tinglayan, Kalinga, and bring out the thrill seeker in you! Get a tattoo from Apo Whang-od, the oldest and the last living traditional artist who is still practicing the craft of Batuk, a traditional tattoo crafted in the Philippines. She recently rose to fame years when her artistry was featured in Discovery Channel’s Tattoo Hunter. Getting a tattoo inked by her means something more than just a permanent mark on your skin, it is a gorgeous form of art that imprints culture from years back.

The process of getting a tattoo is surely an adventure of its own. The process of getting there, and getting the tattoo itself, can take some time, but it definitely will not disappoint you. Along the way, you can witness the beauty of nature, and appreciate the simplicity of life and it can be too astonishing that you might even not notice the time. This adventure tour might even solve your constant struggle of finding serenity in the midst of all the adventures.

With numerous designs to choose from, each having their own special meaning, you can opt to choose one yourself or have it the traditional way and let Apo Whang-od choose for you. With a thorn, a bamboo stick, and wet charcoal, she will carefully bring your chosen tattoo to life. With this simple act, she preserves and keeps the tradition of Butbut tribe of Buscalan alive. She truly leaves a legacy to each and every person she meets.

The tattoo marked by the legendary Apo Whang-od serves as a permanent reminder of the traditional life roots that modern technology can never erase. A tattoo is can be the best and most meaningful souvenir for your next best tropical vacation, for it is not just something you can simply buy from a souvenir shop, but a first-hand experience you can never forget. It is more than just a symbol—It contains your very own story and life-long connection to the Kalinga culture.

Not sure how to plan your trip? Contact our travel partners now to help you out. Experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of engraving Kalinga’s enthralling culture right through your skin.

Manila and its Southern Outskirts

Summer is almost here  and you just can’t wait to bathe under the scorching sun. Coron, Cebu, and Boracay are one of the most famous destinations in the Philippines where you can just flaunt and daunt. Travelling in the Philippines seems like heaven-sent as you travel along the many islands of the Philippines. However, your … Continue reading “Manila and its Southern Outskirts”

Summer is almost here  and you just can’t wait to bathe under the scorching sun. Coron, Cebu, and Boracay are one of the most famous destinations in the Philippines where you can just flaunt and daunt. Travelling in the Philippines seems like heaven-sent as you travel along the many islands of the Philippines. However, your ticket to paradise still have some downsides. Comprised of more than 7,800 islands, it would be hard to spring from one place to another unless you have the time and the resources. Good thing there are world class destinations a few hours from Manila. Go down south of Central Luzon and experience accessible world class destinations without spending too much of your time!

Laguna

Located Southeast of Metro Manila, Laguna is engulfed in rich culture, nature and plenty of attractions you could discover yourself. The promising destination is home to Pagsanjan falls, Mount Makiling, Paete wood carvings and hot springs. If you’re fond of a serene atmosphere where you could contemplate about life, Lake Pandin offers a calm adventure and you may even dine in the middle of the lake with your special someone. Make sure not to miss Villa Escudero for you to get the extreme dining experience of eating your food by the waterfalls.

Tagaytay

Tagaytay is the most popular choice among locals looking for a cooler climate. Its chill atmosphere, refreshing sights and outstanding restaurants offer an easy escape from a buzzling city life. People who are in dire need of a quiet time alone deserves this haven called Tagaytay. One can drop by Palace in the Sky, situated on top of Mt. Sungay where you could overlook and enjoy the interesting landscapes. Another noteworthy spot is Tierra de Maria which is an ideal place for some internalization and spiritual healing. It is famous for its 50-foot tall statue of Virgin of Manaoag and its smaller replica at the foot of the statue. Several vantage points are available for you to visit and be amazed with the overlooking views that can be seen in Tagaytay.

Batangas

Having one of the longest coastlines in Southern Luzon, Batangas offers a variety of beaches perfect for your travel adventure. Batangas is known to have it all – centuries-old architecture, a volcano within a lake, pristine beaches, diverse marine life and everyone’s favorite, irresistible delicacies. Adventure tours in Batangas include island hopping with impressive shorelines and well-preserved heritages. If you want a bit of both, you can drop by the myth-like Fortune Islands especially known for its limestone cliff. An underwater adventure to see the surreal views below the surface will certainly blow you away!

Enjoy the beauty of the Philippines with these provinces and secure yourself with the best tropical vacation without the expense of your time! Contact our travel experts and embark on another meaningful journey.