Visayas tourist guide – highlights

The irresistible and stunning region of Visayas holds some of the Philippine’s greatest treasures, from natural surroundings to man made marvels and from thousands of islands to its most friendly inhabitants. Many would agree that this part of the world is among the most sought after destinations not only because of its natural allure but because of the hospitable and inviting people. From the Queen City of the South that is Cebu to to the surrounding islands and cities, all hold a specific marvel that glows amid its many great attractions.

The historical city of Cebu is famous for its handicrafts, specifically the stringed guitar, its mangoes, its religious attractions (some of which are the oldest in the country), as well as its cultural and historical marvels, but its greatest treasure lies at the heart of the city. The Colon Street, built by the Spaniards, is the oldest Philippine street to be named and established. Although laden with modernities such as movie houses, malls, restaurants and other glittering establishments, its significance and magnificence cannot be denied.

Home to a heritage town, as well as many great man made and natural settings, Bohol is especially famous for its Chocolate Hills, a natural marvel and a Philippine National Geological Monument, starting to get recognition from the worldwide community.

Obvious for its beauty and charm, Panay island’s crowning glory is Boracay, a butterfly shaped island, soaring through the pacific waters and through the hearts of most tourists. Negros is dubbed to have the freshest natural surroundings, splashed with a charming countryside. With its magnificent lakes, pristine beaches, world class reserves, dive sites and highlands, Bohol is a top choice for nature tripping. Its crown dive site Apo island, is an internationally recognized site and home to the widest marine conservation park—which is a great crowd drawer.

The island of Leyte holds the Philippine’s longest and most architecturally beautiful bridge that is the San Juanico Bridge, a man made marvel that is also a major access point for travelers from Samar and Tacloban.  Romblon is famous for its exotic islands where lush vegetation as well as mineral resources are abundant, one of which is the famous Romblon marble, while Siquijor is famous for its mystical lure as it is known to be home to shamans, witches and sorcerers, cooking up magical potions, although the island’s main tourist pulls are its rich surfing havens.