gets top billing in Lonely Planet Philippines
Surfing in Siargao, there’s much to do in RP. — Lonely Planet Philippines
swimming with Donsol’s butanding
The latest edition of the travel guide Lonely Planet Philippines published in May has a decidedly adventure tourism bent but it is also chockfull of interesting bits that even many Filipinos might not be aware about.
On the cover, one reads the book contains over 100 detailed, easy to use maps but for first time visitors who don’t know what to expect, the fact it is "100% researched and updated" might be the bigger draw.
Since authors Greg Bloom, Michael Grosberg, Virginia Jealous and Piers Kelly have over 30 combined years of experience living in or visiting the Philippines, their passion for ferreting out little known gems is almost palpable.
As expected, Boracay island in the province of Aklan figures prominently in the book. It is one of the most mentioned locations but there are other places worth checking out.
In fact, the first few (illustrated) pages of the book are devoted to "activities in the Philippines" that range from kayaking, white water rafting and swimming with Donsol’s butanding (whale sharks) to climbing, caving and surfing in Siargao.
In the essay "Destination Philippines," readers are given a peek at how Filipinos are perceived by foreigners. The fatalistic "bahala na" mentality is touched on as well as the fact that we are a country of smilers.
"Many arrive expecting the country to be ’dangerous,’ [only] to discover instead a land of shiny, happy people. When everybody’s smiling like it’s going out of style, how can you not enjoy the place?" the authors write.
The guide book, as in earlier editions, is divided into sections beginning with a brief history of the country, the culture and a smattering of useful phrases like, "Hindi ako kumakain ng karne" (I don’t eat meat) and "Hanggang anong oras kayo bukas?" (Until what time are you open?).
The main part of the book consists of the different locations, how to get there, where to stay (budget, midrange and top-end) and what to expect. Read the original article here http://www.bworldonline.com/Weekender100909/main.php?id=travel1
