TOP PICKS: 11 Must-try Ice Cream Flavors in the Philippines

Whether it's summer or not, an ice cream is one of my favorite desserts. While traveling around the Philippines, I've tried different kinds of local ice cream flavors - most of them are infused with local products that the city or province they came from is famous for. With this, let me share to you my "11 Favorite Ice Cream in the Philippines" - that are definitely must-try!

Awesome Pasalubong Ideas in Cebu Pacific’s Local Destinations

It is natural for us Filipinos to be thoughtful and always eager to share to our loved ones the joy of our travels. That is why, aside from great memories and awesome photos of our travels, we always want to bring home "something" from that memorable trips we had. Travelers often find it easy to load up on the usual and common "pasalubongs," like ref magnets of tourist destinations or key chains with the name of the city in cursive font. But that has always been the "usual pasalubong," that someone might already given to an office-mate, a friend or relative.

Things To Do in Donsol, Sorsogon: Whale Shark Interaction Tour (Butanding Watching)

I've been to Bicol region several times in the past, But there's something in Bicolandia that makes me always wanna go back. So after almost 2 years since my last visit, we planned a trip to Bicol Region to explore and re-discover its sights and wonderful natural beauty and attractions.

TOP PICKS: Must-try Halo-halo in the Philippines

Best-tasting Halo-halo in the Philippines

There are a lot of mouthwatering desserts out there but nothing beats something that is very close to our hearts and taste buds. Halo-halo, a concoction of tropical fruits, preserves and desserts mixed in crushed ice and milk is one of my favorite desserts especially during summer in the Philippines. Having a humid temperature (almost) all-year round, this favorite "Pinoy panghimagas" is definitely the dessert that everyone loves. Here are my recommended best-tasting halo-halo in the Philippines that you should try to satisfy your hunger and thirst in one delicious glass.

Traveling in Comfort with Isarog Bus Lines' Sleeper Bus

I've been to Legapi City for 4 times already. On all of those trips, I flew in via Legazpi and flew out from the same airport or via Naga City. This time, I wanted to try something new. I flew in via Legazpi City airport, and traveled by bus on my way home. I wasn't really sure if I could endure the 12-hour land travel, but I have to give it a try. I am not into long bus rides as I have this congenital back problem called "sacralization of the L5 on S1" which makes me prone to back pains if I am seated for such a long time. Good thing the bus we took on our way back to Manila is a sleeper bus.

WHERE TO EAT IN LEGAZPI CITY: Jasmine Restaurant at The Oriental Hotel Legazpi

The Oriental Hotel Legazpi offers not just great accommodations, but also a superb dining experience with their in-house restaurant - The Jasmine Restaurant. Located at the ground floor, the restaurant is known for their scrumptious home-grown favorites, as well as delectable international cuisines. The dining area is quite huge, it could actually sit up to 220 guests and also has 3 private rooms with a capacity of 20 persons each for private and exclusive dining. It is well lit and presents a very cozy and luxurious feel featuring modern fixtures and amenities.

WHERE TO STAY IN LEGAZPI CITY: Tyche Boutique Hotel, "The First and Only Boutique Hotel in Bicol Region"

Tyche Boutique Hotel's Superior Room

Tyche Boutique Hotel in Legazpi City, Albay is located right in the middle of the city's downtown area. It is the very first and only boutique hotel in the entire Bicol Region. Situated in the heart of cosmopolitan Legazpi, it is only a few minutes away from Legazpi City Airport and other business and entertainment centers. Food chains, Internet shops, shopping centers and other business and commercial establishments are just a few meters away. If you plan to roam around the city, public transportation is readily available just outside the hotel.

Legazpi City - Relaxation goes further with a Relaxing Massage at the Oriental Spa in The Oriental Hotel Legazpi

As part of our overnight stay at The Oriental Hotel Legazpi, we were treated for a one hour massage at their Spa. Located at the hotel's basement, The Oriental Spa is the only first-class spa in Legazpi City. Designed for guests and visitors seeking for ultimate tranquility, wellness and rejuvenation experience, the Spa offers relaxing and quality massage with a high commitment to customer service from their professionally-trained therapists. This is indeed a perfect place to treat and pamper yourself to a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

WHERE TO EAT IN LEGAZPI CITY: Small Talk Cafe

There are only few destinations in the country that are well-known for its food, Bicol Region is one of them. Bicolano cuisine has its own distinct identity with their heavy use of coconut milk and chili peppers. In Legazpi City, it is not only the tourist spots and destinations that make the city famous but also its delicious food and delicacies. So if you're looking for a place where to eat in Legazpi City, check out Small Talk Cafe. It is one of the most-visited restaurants in the city known for its ingenuous fusion dishes.

HOTELS IN LEGAZPI CITY: The Oriental Hotel Legazpi, "The Best Hotel in Legazpi City"

The Oriental Hotel is one of the finest hotels in Legazpi City, Albay. It is a first class hotel and is the only of its kind in the entire Bicol Region. Perched on the hills of Taysan, it offers its guests with breathtaking picturesque view of the world's renowned Mayon volcano and an overlooking view of the Legazpi cityscape and the blue waters of the Gulf of Albay. The hotel boasts of excellent service, superb hospitality and top-notch accommodation experience to its guests.

Albay - Re-uniting with Magayon Mayon and Daraga Church (a side trip)

Albay is so special to me as it is where I had my very first solo adventure in 2010. This trip is actually my 3rd time to visit Albay and it never fails to amuse me. So just before lunch time, I checked out of my hotel in Sorsogon and took a public van bound for Legaspi City (PHP 90). Since I still have time to burn, I decided to drop by Daraga Church to have a very nice view of the lovely Mayon Volcano.

Albay - Ziplining at Ligñon Hill, Legazpi City

Aside from the spectacular and majestic view of the Mayon Volcano that Ligñon Hill offers, there are various fun-filled and thrilling outdoor activities that can be done here. One is the zip line which I promised myself to do if I will be given the chance to visit Legazpi City again. I finally had the chance to ride Ligñon Hill's zip line on my 2nd visit to City last September 15, 2011. Regardless of the gloomy weather, I am just so excited and ready to try it out.

Albay - A Quick Revisit to Legazpi City

Almost a year ago when I first saw the lovely Mayon Volcano. It was a dream come true! I never thought that I would see her again this soon. Last September 15, 2011, I found my self travelling to Legazpi City again, this time with my mom. Not for a vacation though, we went there to pay our last respect to a departed relative.

Pinoy Festivals : Magayon Festival 2011 in Legazpi City

Bicol region’s grandest and longest cultural festivity, the Magayon Festival will take place on April 1-30 in Legazpi City, Albay. This year's festivities include street parades, musical events, trade fairs, fashion shows, sports tournaments, beauty pageants and more.

The highlight of the festival is on April 29 with the "Magayon Festival of Festivals" that will showcase the local festivities of Albay’s 15 towns and three cities.

Albay - Solo Trip to Legazpi City and Daraga Albay, Tourist Spots, Attractions and Itinerary

I took the 6:00 AM Cebu Pacific flight bound for Legazpi Albay and in 41 minutes after take off, I found myself in this beautiful City. It's been a long time dream for me to visit Legazpi. At isa lang ang nasabi ko nung makita ko ang Mayon Volcano habang pa-landing na ang eroplano. "Nagkita rin tayo..."