5 Best Things to do in Western Visayas

Going to a new place usually means one is setting up for adventure and discovery. Clearly there is no shortage in terms of adventure and surprises in Western Visayas. The area boasts of more than a thousand new things to do and discover. While many of us may not have the time (and the money) to exhaust that many things to-do, the next best things is to list down a smaller number to experience. Here is my list of what I would like to see and do. It’s based on my sense of adventure and may be different from yours. What the heck, whatever you choose; it will definitely be a blast.

VISIT CHURCH OF PANAY

 

Church of Panay

Source: Side Trip With Markey

The Church of Panay, or Santa Monica Parish Church, is the oldest Church in the whole Panay Island. It is mostly made of Coral Stone, giving the church its whitish appearance. It has the largest church bell in Asia; having a measurement of 7 ft height and 5 ft diameter; the Panay church bell is also the 3rd largest church bell in the world. On 1997, the Church of Panay was declared a National Historical Landmark

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Panay Church Bell

Source: Historic Old Philippines

LEARN AT HORTUS BOTANICUS

 

Hortus Botanicus

Source: Roxas City

Hortus Botanicus is a plant sanctuary, located along the hills of Roxas city. It has collection of plants, both endemic and foreign plants can be seen inside it. Inside, a body of water is located and hosts aquatic plants. Along with the various plants that are located inside, the use of each plant is taught to the tourists. It is not only a great place to learn about Botany, but also a great venue to hold seminars and retreats.

Hortus Botanicus

Source: Trip Advisor

SAVOR THE MAMBUKAL MOUNTAIN RESORT

 

Mambukal Mountain Resort

Source: My Philippine Life

The mambukal mountain resort is a gateway to Mt. Kanlaon National Park. It was built on the year 1927, and was designed by a Japanese architect. It boasts various attractions and activities such: as bath houses and picnic gardens; relaxing hot springs; breathtaking rock features; hanging bridges; and rock climbing. It is also a great place to hold conferences and workshops.

 

Pools in Mambukal Mountain Resort

Source: It's More Fun In The Philippines

UNDERGO THE ONA EXPERIENCE

 

Diving

Source: Ona Experience

The Ona Experience is the combination of a safari boat -- where it travels around to different locations, and a luxurious cruise -- where the accomodation is deluxe. The Ona Experience is simply a dive resort where the boat travels for 8 days and 8 nights. Tourists dive and explore the ship wrecks from World War II and the corals along within the area.

Ona Experience Boat

Source: Trip Advisor

RELAX AT THE GIGANTES ISLANDS

 

Gigantes Islands

Source: Yantoyan

The Gigantes Islands are known for its white sand beaches, the delicious and abundant seafood, and awesome rock formations. The tourism facilities around the area is undeveloped making it a peaceful place to be in. Tourists can either relax and stay on the beaches or island hop.

 

Incredible Rock Formations

Source: Beach Resorts Philippines

After reading about the attractions and activities above, I am truly proud to declare that Western Visayas is a great destination and could possibly compete with world class attractions.