Local Philippines: Lovely Laguna

By Author: Allan Leandro Merin
Total Articles: 48
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If you're still undecided on where to begin your next vacation in the Philippines, you can start in Laguna. Accessbile with less an hour drive from Metro Manila, Laguna is a perfect destination to explore the natural beauty of the country. Its immediate proximity from the metro makes the province a magnet for first-time and repeat tourists in the country.

Considered as one of the most progressive provinces in the archipelago, Laguna charms holidaymakers with its panorama of natural wonders, historic landmarks, and man-made delights. The province is known for its meticulous craftsmanship of embroidery, woodcarvings, and footwear. Laguna is not the place to be for beach bummers but perfect for those looking for a different kind of adventure and relaxing vacation.

A whole day is not enough to roam around Laguna and witness its amazing offerings. So below is a recommended list of tourist attractions that are worth your time and money.

Rizal Shrine
Most Philippine travel guides advise tourists in Laguna to pay a visit to Rizal Shrine in Calamba ...
... City. The shrine is the ancestral home of the country's national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Inside the house, which has undergone a number of renovations over the past years, are memorabilia of Rizal's childhood. Visitors are only allowed to take pictures outside the two-story house, which boasts of a vintage Spanish flavor.

Pagsanjan Falls
One of the famous natural wonders in Laguna is Pagsanjan Falls. Located in Brgy. Anglas, Cavinti, the falls measures 91 meters high. Expert boatmen battle strong currents to take tourists to the falls. Visitors can also ride a bamboo raft to enter a cave located behind the falls. As a travel tip, place you cameras inside a water-proof container. Also, don't haggle with illegal boatmen. They notoriously demand exorbitant fees.

Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery
Another must-see attraction in Laguna is the Underground Cemetery in Nagcarlan. Built by the Franciscan Missionaries in 1851, this historical landmark was used a burial ground for Spanish priests. It was also used as a secret meeting place by Filipino revolutionaries. As part of preservation efforts, tourists are prohibited from taking pictures inside the underground crypt.

Mt. Makiling
Mt. Makiling is the pride of Laguna. With an elevation of 1,090 meters, this majestic mountain is a popular hiking destination among local and foreign tourists. There is a host of attractions on the foot of Mt. Makiling such as the Mud Springs, the Makiling National Scout Reservation, the Philippine High School of the Arts, and the University of the Philippines Los Baños.

Enchanted Kingdom
If nature and historical trips do not appeal to you, then enjoy the rides at Enchanted Kingdom. Located in Sta. Rosa, this theme park covers 17 hectares and hosts dozens of world-class rides such as the Space Shuttle, Rio Grande Rapids, Anchors Away, and Flying Fiesta. Opened in 1995, Enchanted Kingdom is also home to fancy restaurants, souvenir shops, and amusement centers.

There more things to do in Laguna such as swimming at Pansol resorts, footwear shopping in Liliw, and buying woodcarvings in Paete. You must also see the Seven Lakes of San Pablo and the Eight Mountains of Nagcarlan. Finally, taste various delicacies such as buko pie in Los Baños and white cheese in Sta. Cruz. There are also a variety of accommodations - from the most basic to the very lavish - across the province.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.