A charming and majestic chain of islands straddling peacefully between Sulu Sea and Celebes Sea in the southwestern Philippines is the exotic Tawi-Tawi province.

Question Yvekes: In January 2010 we will visit the Philippines for the third time, this time we want to focus on Mindanao. For this I have a question: is it safe, and possible, to explore the region around Lake Lanao and Marawi on our own pace, so without a guide and with public transport, bus [...]

Jose Rizal’s home for four years, Dapitan city is the ultimate shrine city of the Philippines. But Dapitan city is not anymore all about Jose Rizal. This once quaint and charming small town is turning to be the most modern and vibrant city in the northern end of the Zamboanga peninsula.

Right in the heart of Mindanao, the highlands of Bukidnon literally explode with breathtaking sceneries from its cool climate to rugged mountains, plateaus, canyons, waterfalls, springs, vast pineapple and rose farms to its extremely diverse flora and fauna and to the colorful tribes of Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon that call this beautiful province home.

Asia’s Latin city. Zamboanga city’s moniker is a tribute to its very Hispanic past. From its airport to its language, one can find a tinge of the Philippines’ unique past.

From its many majestic waterfalls, relaxing coastlines to rugged plateaus and verdant mountains rich in flora and fauna, the province of Lanao del Norte pulsates with electrifying cultural diversity of gentle and proud people – one of the many windows into the soul of the often misunderstood Mindanao.

Called Mindanao’s nature front, Misamis Oriental is home to fine beaches, fertile mountains and lush forest reserves, interesting dive sites, caves that wait to be explored, and a diverse culture that begs to be experienced.

Heading south from Luzon, you’ll come to the central and southern regions of the Philippines. These are the islands of the Visayas and Mindanao and they offer up some internationally acclaimed taste sensations.

Rising from the sea just off the coast of Northern Mindanao, is the volcanic island of Camiguin with its lush and formidable mountains, natural springs, sandbars and dramatic ruins that reminds all of the savage beauty of its tumultuous natural history.

Question John Vanek: Any thoughts on safety on NE Mindanao? I get conflicting info. about this area…it’s safe / it’s not safe. Thanks a lot. Answer Ryan:Hi John,Where exactly in NE Mindanao do you plan to go? Dinagat and Siargao Islands are definitely safe. An international surfing competition is held regularly in Siargao without any [...]