A few more days and we will be saying goodbye to 2011. And for the travel junkie or those who plan to fly back to the Philippines next year, you might be interested to pick your local destination.

With more than 7,000 islands and 80 provinces, the list will be too long to decide. Of course, you will be visiting your hometown, your parents’ or someone close to you. Relaxing on the beach with a tropical climate all year, makes Philippines a great place for the most awaited R&R.  Attending world-famous Philippine festivals is another reason to pay Philippine cities and towns. Add the different sumptious signature dishes that will add more excitement to your Philippine vacation. and don’t forget the happy smiles even from strangers that will make you feel truly at home.

Here are just some of the most popular destinations that you can visit while in the Philippines:

Boracay

The island of Boracay is the most visited Philippine destination with thousands of tourists flocking to this island paradise all year round. Famous for its long stretch of pure white-sand, Boracay has now evolved as a world-class island resort with all amenities and facilities that can cater to the most affluent to budget -conscious tourist.

Palawan

Nature lovers and adventurers will have their perfect spot in the paradise of Palawan. From its secluded beaches to its Nature’s Wonder Subterranean Underground River Park, enjoy nature totally unspoiled in Palawan with plenty of water sports to engage in.

Cebu

Voted as one of the best islands in Asia, Cebu has the metropolis status of Manila with a more laid-back ambiance. A buzzling island but still boasts with diving sites, white-sand beaches, heritage houses and historical forts. Cebu simply said has everything that every Filipino should be proud of.

Davao

Davao is Mindanao’s forerunner when it comes to tourism. A very vibrant city that ensures safety to each visitor, Davao represents the thriving economy and tourism of Mindanao. Exploring Mindanao is a must and Davao is the best place to start your southern adventure. Davao’s durian and Samal Island shouldn’t be miss.

Tagaytay

What to escape Manila but prefer somewhere close? Tagaytay is a no-fail destination for every Filipino hosts. Its cooler weather and stunning scenery makes it a popular choice for a quick getaway. Enjoy the view of the famous Taal volcano or spend some nights on its cosy cabins and lodgings.

Other destinations worth are visit are CamSur, Marinduque, Subic, Batanes, Ilocos and Zamboanga. Take your pick, start with the ones listed above and fall in love with Philippines. Choose Philippines for your 2012 travel plans.

Congratulations to Maria and Jason who are getting married at Shangri-La Mactan Cebu Resort & Spa on November 12, 2011. Travelaccess is proud to organized the travel arrangements for your family and friends

4 nights / 3 days
$399 per person including daily breakfast

A few more days and we have to bid December and the year 2010 goodbye. Enter 2011, specifically the month of January. In the Philippines, January is a month full of merry-making with cities and towns celebrating different festivals.

When you speak of Philippine festivals, those that occur every January are the most famous. They all happen in the Visayas region of the country namely Aklan, Iloilo and Cebu. These festivals are Ati-Atihan Festival of Aklan, Iloilo’s Dinagyang and the world famous Sinulog de Cebu. They are held in honour of the Santo Niño. Hence, these three happen every third and fourth Sunday of the month which is the feast day of the Infant Child Jesus.

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It is hard to find someone who haven’t heard about Cebu, one of the most visited local destinations in the Philippines. The “Queen City of the South” has been closely attached with white-sand beaches but Cebu has thousands of things to offer to its visitors. Likewise, Cebu is now promoted not just the city of Cebu but along with other neighboring cities and towns. Cebu as an island-province – and one of Asia’s best.

When Travel + Leisure magazine named Cebu as the third best islands in Asia coming next after Bali and Maldives, it really didn’t cause a stir in the Philippines and even in Cebu. Of course, it was a big honour but acknowledging Cebu is not something new. Centuries ago, merchants across the globe come to this island in exchange for its goods and until today, this island receives millions of tourists and travelers all over the world.

When picking a local destination to visit while in the Philippines, Cebu is the best choice. And you can never go wrong with this island. If you want to escape from your Filipino relatives when you visit the Philippines, fly to Cebu. Here you can relax, unwind and materialize your long awaited holidays. Rejuvenate and relieve your stress when you admire its scenery and laugh with the locals.

Aside from frolicking under the sun, there are many things to do while in Cebu. Those who want trace back its rich history and culture can engage in walking and cultural tours specifically with its famed churches like the Basilica del Santo Niño. You can travel in the southern part of Cebu and visit the towns of Carcar, Dalaguete and Boljoon for its centuries-old churches and heritage houses. Cebu is also one of the best gastoromical venues in the country. Cebu has the best lechon and the sweetest mangoes.

What makes this island very appealing even t international tourists is the number of facilities it has for its visitors to have a wonderful stay. These facilities are not just centered on local tourists or balikbayans but even to those foreign visitors. This island is the best place to take your friends when visiting Philippines without having the fear of not satisfying their expectation from a tropical getaway. Cebu is a world-class island.

In terms of accommodation, it is home to many luxurious hotels like Marriott, Hilton and Shangrila. There are also affordable hotels in Cebu that are well-equipped with the most modern facilities. Staff are friendly but never pushy.For dining, restaurants particularly in downtown Cebu City can satisfy any palate. If you don’t fancy local food, there are hundreds of restaurants, cafes and bars with cuisine all over the world.

Most of all, Cebuanos love Cebu like no other. It is never hard to train even local taxi drivers to “promote” Cebu for local residents talk highly of their beloved island. Cebuanos are more than happy to show you around and prove how beautiful this island is. Lastly, Cebu is very safe and you can freely walk around the city with a smile on your face.