Surigao del Sur [Philippines]: Southern Charm

    Great adventures often begin where well-trodden roads end. In the region of Mindanao in southern Philippines, that road ends in Surigao del Sur, home to over half a million warm gracious people. The province , which borders Surigao del Norte and the Agusan provinces is best explored by tracing its eastern coastline that faces the Pacific Ocean.

The earliest way to reach Surigao del Sur is to take an hour’s flight from Manila to Butuan City in neighboring Agusan del Norte, followed by a 20 minute ride to the souithern city of Bislig, where the journey to amazing sights and sound begins. One of two lone cities in the provinve, the so called Booming City bythe Bay has all the requisite infrastructure of a m,odern community, yet it still exudes the quiet laidback charm of a small town.

    Only 60,000 live here, where past fortunes were built on a paper mill that was once Asia’s largest. Now, the city taps into its wealth of human talent and ingenuiity---and the rewards are certainly sweet. From caramelized banana chips, called pinasugpo, to wild honey and home-made peanut butter these delicacies that woo the tastebuds are popular local specialties. Zbisliganions also produce handcreafted home and fashion accessories made from organic products, such as rattan and coconut shells, After all, this is a land that Mother Nature has abundantly blessed. And in  Nislig, she has created herpiece de resistence arguably, the country’s most breathtaking waterfalls. Stretching 95 feet acros and rising 55 feet high, Tinut-An falls has rightly earned the monicker, The Niagara Galls of the Philippines. Against a lush forest backdrop a curtain of water drops in a series of tiers, setting a stage for a dramatic show where color shimmer through vains of mist. Visitors can take a rafter as close venture as close as they want to this marvel of nature, or admire it from a distant across the foot bridge. Next to sun-dappled waters, cottages tucked unto the surrounding hills offer a cool respite, and an opportunity to spot one of the many exotic birds that inhabit the forest The locals take Immense pride in Tinuy-An Falls. Every day, a crew from the village keeps the grounds and water clean.

    If you’re planning to spend a night in Bislig, the cozy Paper Country inn would accommodate your needs nicely. Offering friendly rates for as low as $15 a night, the place is ideal for budget travelers.It is also a wi-fi free zone. North of Bislig, a river runs pure and deep, it’s crystalline glistening in a stunning shade of blue. They called it the Enchanted River of Hinatuan. Here, where a thick of forest towers on one side, and a craggy wall of rock rises from a clear basin, it’s almost easy to believe that this place is indeed mystical. Folk tales tell about two strange women with long blonde hair and a man in green having seen in water,before vanishing into thin air. Spirits are believe to guard this river, which is also why no one dares swim in it after sunset. The 600-meter long river also teems with a variety of fish. At scheduled times throughout the day, visitors gather around the lagoon to witness a feeding frenzy. These scaly freeloaders nay shy away from a complimentary meal: however, the natives claim that no one has ever caught one of these  creatures by hand or by spear.

    Myth or magic, what is certain is the irresistible zallure of this local wonder, a scheduled oasis that invites the visitors for a refreshing dip. Divers brave enough to explore its depths would find jets from undergroung spring and hidden caves that tuunel for several kilometers. After a swim, visitors can relax and enjoy their packed lunch in shaded tables near the river. The town of Hinnatuan is also a model for green environment. In 2010, it was declared winner of the Zero Basura Olympics, a nationwide search fot towns ande cities with the most innovative and effective approach to waste management. The proof is right here at the Hinnatuan Eco Park. It’s not only a popular spot for locals who want to unwind aand bask in the cool breeze, it’s also the site where trash is segregated and processed. Here, residual waste is transformed into paving blocks and hollow blocks for building construction. Old tires are recycled into unusual lawn chairs, and biodegradable waste is transformed into fertile compost that nourish the many mahogany trees in the park. Homes and establishments are recquired to segregate their garbage. Hinatuan also observes a strict “no plastics” ordinance in public markets.

That means bringing your own reusable bag when you go shopping. If you’re looking for sandy beaches, plenty of sun, and a little privacy, just two towns away from Hinatuan is San Agustin, where the Britania Group of Islets beckon like jewels in the sea.

    Rent a pump boat to take you on a tour of nthe 13 bislets, some of them rivalingtheb best beaches in the country. But each of them is an unique pocket of paradise. Here, you can laze on the shadow of limestone cliffs. Or sink nyour toes into sand as fine as powder. With no crowds and hawkers to hog the view, the islets offer a quite escapefrom the rest of the maddening world. By sunset, San Agustin noffers a different kind of paradise, one that will satisfy your cravings for fresh seafoof. Mcarthur’s mBeach Resort, where visitors can stay for the night, serve up local favorites, like grilled fish, squid, and seashells called limahan.

    In the town of Cagwait, a homegrown company with humble roots has made a name for itself by producing objects from ironwood, mlocally called “magkono” It’s a sturdy tree that’s known forfor its exceptionally density. At VG Lambo Enterprises, craftsmen with years of experience create everything from home accessories bto furniture, and art pieces. Each item bears the stamp of the artisan’s nmeticulous attention to detail and his mastery over a difficult material. No wonder, the products are highly demanded in major cities around the country, like Manila and Cebu. Cagwait also produces everyday items fashioned from abaca. The kabalikat Handicraft Association is a livelihood program for local women who want to earn extra income, by weaving abaca fiber into handbags, baskets, and other handicrafts.

    An idyllic seaside town with a deep crescent shaped coast Cagwait once captivated aviation’s famous figure, Charles Lindberg. The legendary pilot nflew over the white sandy cove during his visit to the country to campaign for wildlife preservation in the 1970’s.

    Amazed by how much it reminded him of the beautiful Waikiki Beach in Hawaii, he landed to meet the locals, and soon enough, Cagwait White Beach also became known as the Waikiki of the Philippines.

    A good place to stay while in town is the government-owned inn. It’s situated along the White Beach, where you can enjoy the sunrise before an invigorating swim.

    If you’re looking for some adrenaline-pumping action, head over the town of lanuza/

    Every year in November, surfing enthusiasts from around the country and as fas Australia converge hereb to compete in Lanuza Surfing Festival, held at the sandy bottom surfing ground, called Doot Poktoy. The waves barreling in from the Pacific Ocean can swell to 10 feet or more. You can catch one these rollers and get the ride of your life between October to April. One Australian visitor came to shoot the curls and well..found Cloud 9. Leaving behind his old life from down under…

…he built a new one here in Lanuza, and turned his passion for the sport into a thriving business.

    Richard Matthews is one of the few people in the world who makes surfboards from bamboo, and possibly the only one who uses abaca fiber. Bamboo fortifies the board, while abaca makes it lighter. Since he started  the green movement. his beautifully-crafted boards have been making waves in the international market. The boulevard that overlooks Doot Poktoy is—not surprisingly—a favorite hangout spot for surfers and landbuggers alike. A rustic café fills up hungry stomach with sweets and warm treats, like the popular kamoteng kahoy, or cassava. Next door,  a cottage welcomes  backpackers for over night and long stays. If you think Lanuza is just about surfing, it’s time to lose those flipflops and get ready for a walk down the dark side.Just five kilometers away, another world exists, where columns of stone hang like sharp fangs in a monster’s gaping jaws. Where bats, snakes and a thousand other nocturnal creatures prey and sleep in a cathedral of stalagtites and stalagmites.

    Where a journey down the rocky, slippery unknown is an adventure itself.

    In 1942, the adventure was made all the more treacherous for a group of Japanese soldiers who hid within the dripping walls of the Compomento Cave. It was desperate bid to escape the American’s during the war.

    Also in Lanuza, the Herrera Ancestral Homes  endearingly named White House, is a repository for charming objects freom the past. Built in 1898, the residential museum tells the story of the town’s bygone era through Spanish influenced architecture obsolete everyday items and religious artifacts. Before leaving lanuza, go for a drink or two at the popular sanctuary. S a panoramic view of sitting in ther outskirts of town , the restaurant serves up a selection bof fine bec]verages in a coazy ambience, the perfect setting to enjoy a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.

    In recent years, Surigao Del Sur has been quietly carving itself a niche in eco-conservation. And its posterv child is Cantilan, the only town in the 5-municipal region of CarCanMadCarLan that advocates a firm anti-mining position.

     In 2011, Cantilan garnered the Blue Pride Award for inspiring Conservation, given by RARE a leading American organization that promotes biodiversity in global communities. Two of its territories were also named finalists in the search for best practices of effectively managed MPAS or Marine Protected Areas in the Philippines, a recognition handed out by the MPA Support Network.

    One of the finalist is Ayoke Island, a 30 minute boat ride from ythe Cantilan port. Fringed with sugar-fine sands and lofty palm trees, the two kilometer spit of land in the Pacific Ocean seems to be a place that time forgort. Children greet visitors with an effusive warmth and innocent trust that is foreign to city dwellers.

    Here, life is simple, but it has its perks. There are no crowded streets. Food is plentiful, And although the school consists of nothing more than two classrooms, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better playground than this—the immense and ever-changing sea.

    These protected waters around Ayoke are flourishing ecosystem, where a vast coral garden plays host to a rich and diverse marine life. Only 800 people or 98 families live on the island. One of them is a Frenchman who fell in love with the place and decfided  to claim a slice of paradise. Not far away lies in the marine protected area og General Island, the other feather in Cantilan’s cap. Guests can set up camp at the Bagong Banwa or Double B White Beach. No trip to Surigao del Sur is complete without a visit nto the capital, Tandag, a coastal city a few minute’s drive from bislig. It holds the distinction of also being the former capital of ancient Surigao, distinsct that sprawled across two Surigaos and other areas of the adjacent provinces back in 1650.

    The best way to see the town is to climb to the summit of Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto. From there, you get a 360-degree view of the entire city, including the twin islands of Linungao. These forest-covered mountains are home to colonies of bats that burst out of caves in clouds of black just before the sun sets.

    By nightfall, Tandag’s other nocturnal habitants come out to play. Favorite haunts include the succinctly named, Bar, a rousing street-corner joint for beers and billiards… And the laidback meeting place called, Café la Jarra where you can linger over a cup of flavored coffee with friends, and surf online to your heart’s content.

    When the locals want to spend a little more nfor a lavish meal that hits the spot, they head to the Gold Bar. With its gilded façade, loft-structured interiors and exposed wooden beams, the restaurant serves up a feast for the eyes…as wlee as thepalate.A mouthwatering menu of native and internationally inspired dishes will please the food lovers and non-foodles alike.Tandag is a bustling place for locals who enjoy their own brand of R&R---From the best pizza dive by the river, aptly named Da port Bar…

…to the newly opened Gelato Thrill Café, a quaint spot for casual bites and seriously good ice cream halo-halo

    If you’re looking for a place to stay in the city, there no need to sweat it. Tandag has dozens of accommodations to choose from, including the newest addition, Villa Maria Luisa Hotel. Ideally located in the heart of Tandag the hotel offers superior amenities in a comfortable elegant environment. If you prefer a seaside retreat, check in at the Mahayag Beach Resort. Nestled on one end of the cove in the village of Buenavista, the place  is a quite escape where you can unwind and just let nature work her magic…

    …as she does in Cagwait, Hinatuan and Bislig.

    In a land familiar to only a few travelers, she has been profoundly generous, creating beauty and raw magnificence that are uniquely and undeniably Surigao del sur.

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Asia Travel Macau: “MACAU” A Formula For Success/ Eurasia Macau/ The Macau Sensation

A Brand…More than a name, it is product of careful design. Lead by a vision, it constructs, remodels and redefines an experience…Through the creative manipulation of its resources, a brand not only establishes an idea, it forms an identity. Since its independence, Macau has, brick by brick built on a singular brand distinct in the region and recognized throughout the world. A brand that speaks of its sudden rise back into the limelight, all thanks to Macau’s formula for success. In much the same way as Hongkong, Macau is one of two Special Administrative Regions under China. Such liberties have allowed for Macau to enjoy a high degree of autonomy over its economy and immigration policies, becoming a hub for tourists and businessmen. Macau remains one of the fastest growing economy in Asia, which is attributed to its bustling tourism and gaming industries. Waves of people come to Macau. Yearly, its ports of entry draw more than 22 million visitors. But the flow of people is nothing new to a historic port town like Macau.     Composed of the Macau Peninsula and the Islands of Taipa and Coloane, Macau is a narrow territory jutted at the southern most tip of the mainland. Initially inhabited by fishermen form Fujian and Guangdong Province, it was, and still is, an ideal place for commerce. At the mouth of the Pearl River Delta, it faces the south China sea where it bridged China with the rest of the southeast. It earned the name Ou Mun, or the “trading gate”, for it became an essential trading port for cargo along the length of the ancient Silk Road. Through a network of trading routes by land and by sea, the silk road connected Europe to the far east. By 1550, when Portugese merchant-explorers arrived, there was already a seaborne industry alive on the peninsula. Various makes of junks dotted the port, with innovations that defined the time.     The Maritime Museum at the Barra Square, tells the story of the port of Macau and its vital role in establishing the city. Across the same cobbled stone esplanade of the Barra Square is the A-ma Gao or A-ma Temple. Erected in honor of Mazu (Maa-zu), the Goddess of Seafarers, the A-Ma Gao soon come to mean so much more. Lost in exonym, from A-Ma-Gao, the Portugese adopted the name Ma-cau, to refer to the entire territory.     Everyday visitors are drawn to one of the oldest temples of Macau. Some come to worship while others find through its winding paths and pavilions, its deep history embedded onto rock. But to be named after a temple in honor of Mazu is a point of pride. Reverence for the diety has remained alive in seafaring communities across China for the past thousand years. But no place can prove Macau’s persistent veneration to A-Ma than in the A-Ma Cultural Village. Completed in 2001, it may not be the oldest, but it is certainly one of the most iconic. Found at Coloane Island, towering above its hills is a seven thousand square meter park allotted for the Tian Hou Palace.      Up past the carvings along the stone steps...     And through the ornate village gates...     Lay the inner courtyard where there are dressing halls, museums, and shops as well as a central Buddhist Temple. But its most important feature is found further up the hill. A white marble statue of A-Ma looks over Macau. At a towering height of 99.9 meters, its size signifies the year of handover from Portugal to China. Through the cooperation of Macau designers and sculptors from the mainland, it sets in stone the meaningful return of Macau to its mother country. Although these are more prominent places of worship, there are at least 40 temples in Macau honoring various other Gods. Today, such a number is exceptional, as there are few places left in China that have these close system of temples. Mandarin, other than being a language, also refers to a powerful member of the nine political figures of the Chinese Empire. Zheng Guanying was a political force in China. A merchant and socio-political scholar, he lived in Macau for several generations. His home is known today as the Mandarin’s house. A staggering 4000 square meter complex, it has 60 rooms spread along three floor has 60 rooms spread along three floors. Its size was rare in Macau, speaking of the resident’s affluence and political influence. The house is typical of a Guangdong residence, with several central gardens and courtyards throughout the property. The mandarin’s house is divided into two areas; the front for the servants of the house and the back for Zheng Guanying and his family. The plaster poetry throughout the residence are characteristic of Chinese style architectural ornamentation; some of these following themes from Chinese literature. A series of moon gates allow balance in the Mandarin’s house. It is believed that moon gates influence the Chi or energy through the mansion and serve as an inviting entrance for the guest.      Its temples, homes, and budding industry established deep Chinese roots, but that was just the beginning. As Macau was becoming an important crossroad between two different cultures, it was also recreating its identity.     The prevalence of various topologies evident throughout its architecture provides insight into the foreign influences of Macau. And there is no better place to begin the search than in Leal Senado or Senado Square. Once the center of Macau, it has since developed to be the face of the Region’s heritage corridor. Though much of the structures along the road were constructed in the 19th and 20th century, the efforts to preserve them brought back the Mediterranean mood, that at one point. defined its time. In the rebirth of the old, additional work was done to the central esplanade. Artists from Portugal paved the path in black and white cobbles, forming a wave patterned walkway. The colors were meant to draw out the pastel hues of the restored buildings. The Leal Senado Building and Santa Casa Da Misericcordia, are edifices that speak of the lasting magnifices of western design. At the St. Dominic’s Square is where the first ever Catholic church in China was constructed. Erected under the Dominican’s in 1587, St. Dominic’s Church signaled the dawn of Catholicism in Macau. Today, there is a profusion of churches found throughout Macau. Each processes a unique window into Macau’s history. But the ruin of one speaks more about the cooperation of east and west in Macau than all others combined. The Church of Mater Dei or Mother of God, also known as the St. Paul’s Cathedral was completed under the Jesuits in 1602. It was the largest stone church ever constructed in Asia at the time. Brought to rubble by a blaze in 1835, all that’s left for people to visit is the façade and its 66 stone steps. But from the ruins alone, one can admire and imagine the elegance of what would have been the Cathedral.     It once was believed to follow the Chinese style tiled roofs, with sidewalls made chunambo, a mixture of straw, lime, and oyster shells. Genovese Carlo Spinola who infused these western designs, acquiring the help of Chinese and Japanese craftsmen, designed it. So formidable was this collaboration that it drew the favor of European royalty. Follow the cobbled stone steps throughout Macau and it will lead too much more. The Moorish Baracks, designed by Italian architect Cassuto in 1874, incorporates Islamic influences in its overall design. It was intended to accommodate the Indian regiment from Goa that serves as additional security for the port city. Today, it remains a vital government building as Macau’s Maritime Administration. Another structure worthy of note is the Guia fortress and lighthouse. The oldest Western style lighthouse in the China coast, it is situated at the highest point in Macau, offering an amazing panoramic view of peninsula.       Centuries of Portugese influence built an enduring structure that gave birth to the unique cultural attributes of Macau. The building that houses the Museum of Taipa and Coloane history was once the Taipa Public Administration Building. Its façade was inspired by Neo-classical architecture, reviving the grandeur of ancient Rome. From inside, the offices are turned into galleries telling the story of Taipa and Coloane. There are more than 230 artifacts spread along nine thematic galleries.     Taipa and Coloane are found south of the Macau Peninsula     Taipa had once made its mark across the world in the middle of the 20th century for its firecracker industry. Through mining and manufacturing, family businesses like Him Yuen Yick Kee Firecracker Company and Yick Loong Firecrackers Company became household names. It fired Taipa’s economy. Further down the road, along the Avenida de Praia, are a row of houses now converted into Casa-Museu du Taipa. Once the residence of high officials and prominent Macanese families, it was eventually remodeled as a museum, displaying the way of life during the early 20th century. Styled in the typical colonial home. The Macanese house allows guests to visit the splendor of the affluent Portuguese and British merchants and Chinese that prospered in Macau. Although the exterior leans toward more Portugese-styled homes, the furnishings are very much Chinese in design, creating equilibrium between two cultures. The remaining ones including the “House of the Islands”, “The House of Portugal Regions”, “The Exhibition Gallery” and the “The Two Houses of Reception” that are also open to the public.     But not all are echoes of the past. Some 10,000 residents of Taipa continue to live along the quaint narrow roads and clustered houses maintaining the architecture and the mood of the older days. The Municipal Market of Taipa has long since lost its businesses but not its luster. Another historical site, it was once the center of little Taipa’s township. From here a web of roads opens up to food streets (Gelatina Mook Yi Kei) and unexpected culinary marvels.The one thing common between these two distinct cultures is its food. Certainly worlds apart in the how and the what, but the value placed in each delicious journey is unquestionable.      Although Macau has one of the densest populations by square meter, it also is a region that has the highest life expectancy in the world. Breaking through the monotony of high rises lay old restored pieces of Macau’s history. Pocket gardens, paved cobble stone passages and lake side parks that are enjoyed not only by tourists but by locals as well. Places that are not hollow attraction but are in fact sanctuaries for their community. See Tai Chi practiced in gardens like the Lou Lim Lok, or steal a peek at the migratory birds in Macau’s Bird Colony, Visit the public gym at places like the Carmel Square, Or join the women dancing in Jardim de Vasco Da Gama in the early mornings take a stroll and enjoy the works of artists all around. Experiences that enrich its resident’s lives through varied experiences embedded in their daily lives. Ad from these places of quiet, it seems the Macanese have time to rest and rethink.     “In rest,” says the Chinese proverb, “one can find perspective.”     Though much different from Portugese buildings and Chinese homes and temples, the new high rises that shape the cityscape are testaments to Macau’s penchant for fine architecture.      At the Macau Science Center and Planetarium, children are introduced to a world of knowledge presented in a fun and exciting adventure. From room to room, children learn the laws that rule the universe. Funded by various charities and designed by world-renowned architect I. M. Pei, the Macau Science Center is where it all starts. In view of the science center are already engineering masterpieces like the Ponte de Amizade and Ponte Governador Nobre de Carvalho (or Macau Taipa Bridge). Pushing the limits further, the structures all around Macau are in themselves astonishing architectural marvels. In the last couple of years of Macau has been out-doing itself, hotel by hotel, catering to the increasing number of visitors. The tallest of them is the Grand Lisboa. Named after the capital city of Portugal, the lotus shaped building and its orb-like casino can be seen as far as Taipa. Situated along the straight, it is hard to miss. At the lobby alone, the lavish collection of Asian art calls to the tourists. But Lisboa is more than just a place to stay. Its restaurants and bar s are of the highest caliber. With specialty restaurants that are a feast for the senses.  Also situated along the prime waterfront of the Macau is the MGM Macau, an affiliate of the MGM Resorts International. A 35-story tower with cascading glass windows of gold, silver and bronze that reflect from it the South China Sea.     Upon entering, two original Dali sculptures greet guests. Its attention to detail is further impresses as one walks into the Grand Praca (Prasa cedile). Rising 25 meters, this dynamic space takes inspiration from European architecture with dramatic landscapes against man-made forms. Lines all around it are restaurants where one can dine alfresco minus the mid-summer heat. From across the MGM is the L’arc Macau. A hotel and service department, this five star hotel offers a home away from home. Taken from the arch du triumph, L’arc molds. Parisian elegance into its executive lounge. But among the names famous for Asian hospitality, the Mandarin Oriental is at the top of the list. Found throughout the world, Macau might not be the same if it did not have its own Mandarin Oriental. Opened in July 2010, it closely adheres to the aesthetics of Mandarin Oriental that blends local cultures, exotic art, and a lovely ambience with breathtaking vacations.     Collaborations between east and west continued long after Portugal left Macau. The Wynn Hotel offers more than just a great dining experience that complements the Eurasian flavor of Macau. Its sister hotel, the Encore (at Wynn Macau) takes stock in the Wynn Hotel’s signature service but applies a light whimsical approach to its architecture. Sourcing materials from as far as Brazil and Europe for its for its décor. The Ponte 16 was once a fisherman’s port along the inner harbor. Now hotels manage by French Luxury Hotel, Sofitel, it again is a place for people all over the world to visit and enjoy.     Sofitel Macau at Pointe 16 has also one of the largest collections of Michael Jackson Memorabilia, with a special gallery in honor of pop star. But for those seeking rest in a place full of history, then the Pousada de Sao Tiago is the place to stay in. A fortress built by the Portugese  in the early 17th century, it has been transformed into a boutique hotel with a small selection of rooms allowing privacy and quiet. Smaple the Sanish cuisine in La Paloma, with their special Iberian Ham and Paella Valenciana.     From across the peninsula, between Taipa and Coloane, a strip of land is now gaining headway. The Cotal Strip is a stretch of reclaimed territory that is home to a collection of hotel chains. The largest of them al is the Venetian Hotel. The Venetian Hotel, owned by Las Vegas Sand Corporation, is a 40-storey building hotel. It is arguably the most expansive in the world. The first fully integrated luxury and entertainment resort, it links Las Vegas’ three most prominent hotels: The Sands Macau, The Venetian Hotel and The Four Seasons Macau. Between shopping, enjoy a gondola ride as gondeliers serenade guests along the indoor canal. It is also home to Cirque du Soeil’s ZAIA, with daily stagings of the world-famous acrobatics show.     Revel in the graceful accents of neo-European elegance embraces warmth in the Four Seasons Macau. From across the Plaza is a new addition to the famous Cotal Strip… The City of Dreams.     An integrated entertainment resort, it offers an array of accommodations, from the Crown Plaza to the Grand Hyatt Hotel and the Hard Rock Hotel. Living up to its name, the City of Dreams offers a virtual aquarium, the one of its kind and the bubble show where it features the Dragon Pearl, a 10 min. visual adventure. Speeding through its hotels, one might just miss the very glue that holds all these together. What makes Macau so novel is the mutual respect between existing native cultures and their Portuguese guests that went through long periods of cooperation and cultural exchanges evidenced today by its architecture, cuisine and most of all hospitality.     The City of Culture, the Las Vegas of Asia, the Europe of the East.     It is what makes Macau a brand separate from all others. Using the qualities of the old and incorporated them into a new, Macau makes its past relevant to its future, formulating a brand for its success.