THINGS TO DO IN MAGUINDANAO - Finding Peace at Tamontaka Lourdes Grotto

Since I still have an hour of free time before I go to the airport for my flight back to Manila, I decided to visit the Tamontaka Lourdes Grotto in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao. If you're coming from Cotabato City, it is along the way to the airport, around 20 minutes away from the city proper. The grotto is run by a religious congregation, the Oblates of Mary Immaculate. It is known to have a statue of the Lady of Lourdes, a replica of the original in France and is believed to be miraculous.

COTABATO CITY TRAVEL GUIDE - Tourist Spots and Attractions, How To Get There, Things To Do, Where To Stay, Where To Eat, Itinerary, Expenses and Contact Persons

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Masjid

Cotabato City is the administrative center of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Although geographically located within the boundaries of the province of Maguindanao, Cotabato City is politically independent from the province and is part of SOCCSKSARGEN region. The city offers monumental attractions, historical sights, and other man-made and natural wonders. There are a lot of tourist spots and attractions to enjoy and activities to do in Cotabato City. One could experience a different culture, learn new things, appreciate great architectures, and try new food, among many others.

Maguindanao: Keeping the Inaul Weaving Tradition Alive at Al Jamelah Weaving Center

Al Jamelah Weaving Center is located in the municipality of Datu Odin Sinsuat in the province of Maguindanao. It's objective is to establish and promote small-scale industry where participation of Bangsa-Moro women is enhanced and preserve cultural identity. Here, you can see how the traditional Maguindanaon handwoven fabric called inaul is made.

Maguindanao, my 68th Province!

Last July 7 and 8, 2012, I had an enriching weekend trip in Cotabato City and Maguindanao, the 68th province on my list. I am glad to travel with my fellow travel bloggers Eric of Byahilo: Ito ang Trip ko! and Bernie of HabagatCentral.com. It was a weekend of learning new things, experiencing a different culture, appreciating great architectures, and trying out new food.