The Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu

By Pooja M Shah

Machu Picchu is a leading premier travel destination. As a result hundreds of people have taken the opportunity to travel to Machu Picchu. It is an impressive place on earth. The place was constructed by the Inca Empire more than 600 years ago.

This pre-Columbian 15th century site is located 2,430 meters above sea level. The site is located above a mountain ridge on the Urubamba Valley, Peru. The Inca constructed the estate around the year 1450. However, they abandoned the site a century later upon the Spanish Conquest.

A popular tourist destination:

Machu Picchu was unknown to the rest of the world until it was brought to the attention of the international community in 1911. Since then, the site has become a popular tourist attraction. To give a better idea about how the structures looked like, the outlying buildings were reconstructed and by the year 1976, 30% of the site had been restored.

Nevertheless, the work of restoration continues to the present. In 1981, the site was declared a Historical Sanctuary and in 1983 it was considered a UNESCO Heritage Site. In 2007, the site was voted as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.To this day, archeologists do not know how and why the Incas constructed this aesthetic site that is set above the mountain ridge in Andes.

Many of the archeologists believe that is was constructed for religious purposes. However, this claim has not been confirmed. The place is considered an elusive place on the face of the earth because it succeeded in escaping the Spanish conquistadors who seized most of South America.

Best time to tour Machu Picchu

The most favorable season for visiting is during the dry season that last from mid April to Mid September. During this season large crowds visit the site. The rainy season between late September and early April makes outdoor tours and treks challenging. Nevertheless the crowds and prices during this season are the lowest.

Before travelling to Machu Picchu it is important to acclimate yourself for at least 1 to 2 days before starting the hike. Considering that tickets sell out weeks before the time particularly during the peak season it is advisable to book early. It is important to research carefully the items that need to be carried during the hike. Furthermore, you can consider staying for the night at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary-Lodge located at the top of the mountain. Other options include lodges in Aguas Calientes.

We provide the best info about Machu Picchu tour package. For further details, please visit the provided links.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pooja_M_Shah

 When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs. Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City at the low amount of only P9,333.33 and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

Baler, a jewel of a paradise waiting to be dscovered

INQUIRER.net

 5 238 218

MANILA, Philippines – For those who vacation in the more popular destinations south of Metro Manila, Baler seems like a distant and remote spot. To the peripatetic and those bitten by wanderlust, Baler is a jewel of a paradise waiting to be discovered.  Tucked between mountain and sea, Baler is the economic hub and political center of the province of Aurora. Its very location between the formidable Sierra Madre mountain range and the waters of the Pacific Ocean endows the town with so many attractions.

For surfers, Baler has long been a byword among those searching for excitement and sure adrenaline rush.  Most famous among the town’s many surfing spots is Sabang Beach, a long stretch of gray sandy beach.  It offers a calm and soothing beachfront from March to June with moderate waves ideal or swimming. From October to February, however, the large waves come in which gives ample opportunity for surfers to ride the crest.  For experts, Lindy’s Point, along the southern part of the beach, offers more challenging waves.

Lovers of marine attractions will enjoy a visit to the coral-rich islands of Dimadimalangat, Aniao and Lukso-Lukso strewn just off the coast. The picturesque Dicasalarin Beach offers calm, crystal-clear waters for hours of swimming and just lazing on the white sand beach.  This is the same beach where the romantic scene between Anne Curtis and Jericho Rosales was shot for the movie “Baler”.

Baler is also a town with a rich historical past.  Baler Church marks the famous Siege of Baler when the last Spanish garrison of four officers and 50 men was besieged by Filipino insurgents from June 27, 1898 to July 2, 1899.  This was the last pocket of resistance of the Spanish Armed Forces to surrender to American troops.

It is also hometown to the late Pres. Manuel Luis Quezon and those who want to know more about the man can visit the Quezon Memorial Park—a beautiful park with stately trees, flowering ornamentals and gardens.  A statue of Pres. Quezon sits in the center where tourists can have their photos taken. In the middle sits the striking Museo de Baler.

Ermita Hill in nearby Poblacion Casiguran offers a commanding view of Casiguran Bay, Sabang Beach and the nearby islets. More than just a park and perch, this is also the site where seven families escaped to during the great tsunami of December 1735.  At the foot of the hill stands a stunning memorial created by artist Nemi Miranda—a sculpture depicting fathers, mothers and children clambering up on the hill to escape the rampaging waves.

Experience a luxurious and comfortable life + affordable rates and plans

In the midst of the beauty and attractions, Baler is a true haven designed to pamper the body and soothe the senses—Costa Pacifica Raintree. Located along Sabang Beach, it offers a breathtaking view of the ocean with windswept beaches and a striking sunrise.  More than that, Costa Pacifica Raintree is just a lazy walk away from the famous surfer’s beach.

Its 108 handsomely-designed suites are equipped with LCD television with cable programming, air conditioning, and hot and cold shower. Guests have free use of the pool and gym.  There is also complimentary Wi-Fi access for those who wish to be connected even on a holiday.  For the young ones, the hotel has an activity room and gym.

A feast awaits gourmands at Costa Pacifica’s dining outlets.  The Beach Shack offers a menu of mouthwatering local and international cuisine for lunch and dinner, and a breakfast buffet served daily.  It boasts of a wood-fired oven to give most selections a smoky, heartwarming flavor and offers calming view of the ocean.

Café Rosa is charming, Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and coffee shop where one can luxuriously savor themed buffets and ala-carte selections. Authentic Baler cuisine is the main attraction of the menu and is served for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Those who want to spice up out-of-town business gatherings, product launches and private parties such as weddings, anniversaries and birthdays will fall in love with The Pavillion. The handsome structure sits along the shoreline and opens to a panoramic view of the sea. More than a function room, it is a destination where one can make beautiful memories with friends, family and loved ones.

Costa Pacifica Raintree opens in the first quarter of 2013.

Costa Pacifica Raintree is located at Buton Street, Sabang, Baler, Aurora.  Sabang Beach is a few minutes away from the Baler town proper and about 230KM northeast of Manila. For details and inquiries, log on to inquiry@costapacificaraintree.com.

When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs. Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City at the low amount of only P9,333.33 and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

Environment-Friendly Camp Attracts Tourists

By Mar T. Supnad

January 23, 2013, 8:34pm

CATAPANG JR.

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – The Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID) here has earned an image of being an environment-friendly military camp due to its effort to preserve giant, old trees inside the reservation. It is also eyeing the conversion of a portion of the  Fort Magsaysay Military Reservation (FMMR) into a tourist destination.

The camp’s natural cool surrounding impresses its visitors, specifically several big trees lining up the streets, serving as shields against the heat of the sun.

This was due to the leadership of the army, led by 7ID Commander, Brig. Gen. Pio Catapang Jr., who spearheaded tree and environment preservation inside the camp.

Catapang met recently with representatives from the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) to explore more pro-environment activities.

“During our meeting with TIEZA representatives, we discussed some of the activities that environment lovers and tourists can do here such as wall climbing, hiking, downhill mountain biking, camping, motocross riding, 4x4 off-road driving, zip-line, and horseback riding as well as water sports in our coastal areas in Dingalan, Aurora namely kayaking, scuba diving, windsurfing, jet ski, and parasailing,” Catapang told newsmen.

“Now that we are becoming insurgency-free and the reign of peace and prosperity in Regions 1 and 3, it is high time that we transform certain parts of our camp into a place of leisure where families and friends can bond together. We want them to say that you haven’t been to Nueva Ecija if you haven’t visited Fort Magsaysay, the home of Kaugnay troopers,” Catapang declared.

The FMMR, with a total land area of 44,970 hectares, was created by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 237 dated December 19, 1955. It consists of the Cantonment area, Training Circuit, Kalinga sa Kawal off-based housing for military personnel, Jethropa Plantation, National Training Center (Balikatan area), and the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

Catapang challenged the rebels in the area to join them in their programs to protect Mother Nature and its bounty for the future generation of Filipinos to enjoy.

 When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs. Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City at the low amount of only P9,333.33 and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

Trekking In Nepal - Guides To Foreignerstrekking

By Swinn J Victor

Some years ago, in the country of Nepal that is blessed with a part of the Himalayan peak, trekkers were enjoying their mountaineering individually. But, recently it has been made compulsory by the local government that all tourists, who wish to take up trekking in Nepal, will have to be accompanied at least by a single government-approved guide or porter. This decision of the government was greatly accepted by the Trakking Agencies' Association of Nepal. This decision is not only for ensuring the safety of the climbers, but also to control several several illegal trekking companies.

This decision was made with a view to make this country as the best destination for tourists and it was done mainly because some international media channels questioned about the safety of tourists in Nepal. There are good companies arranging trekking in this country and these companies abide by the rules and regulations laid by the government for ensuring the safety of their customers, while they are in Nepal.

Different trekking tours are organized by the Nepal tourism firms and among them Everest base camp trekking is highly popular among tourists. During this trip, the trekkers should never miss out the opportunity of tasting the local foods. To the best of my knowledge, I loved the 'dhal bhaat' dish the most. It is traditional Nepalese food that is made from boiled rice and it is served with special sauce and vegetables. Some other foods that should not be missed out are garlic soup, yak steak, yak cheese, Tibetan bread and Tsampa porridge.

Before booking for Everest base camp trekking, it is better to make a visit to your health care provider for ensuring whether you are healthy enough to take up a trekking tour. Not only this particular tour, but also for any other type of mountaineering trips, it is better to check with the health care provider. Only your family physician can offer the right type of guidance.

After receiving permission from your health care provider, you can also check with the best trip organizing company. Reliability of the company should also be checked and you can inquire whether the staff, who will be accompanying the tour is well-trained in ensuring the best safety of the tourists. Also, some companies send guides, who know some basic first aid techniques for further ensuring the safety of their customers. So, select the best company and enjoy a hassle free trekking in Nepal.

Notjusttreks.com provides the ultimate hiking and trekking holidays in the highest mountains in the world. Our responsible adventures team service provides for trekking in india andeverest base camp trekking in nepal. For more details about everest base camp please visit us.

When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs. Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City at the low amount of only P 9,333.33 and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Swinn_J_Victor

Airport Roads Warning: Gangs Harassing Motorists by NAIA

Written By
WhenInManila Contributor

•  

Beware of these men…

Around 9am last Friday (early January 2013), we made our way to the airport. As we left NAIA terminal 1, we passed under the NAIA flyover. There we saw a group of men harassing motorists. They were banging on the windows of the cars in traffic. Some were even jumping up on the sidesteps for the higher SUVs or trucks. Some of them raised our windshield wipers and started to supposedly clean our front windshield. So our driver lowered his window a bit and gave the men a P20 bill but they still wouldn’t leave, even if our car was moving already, they were still hanging on to our moving vehicle. My driver tried to close the window but the man just started to scream, “My fingers!” Finally, the man leg go of our window when he saw me bring out my camera phone and point it at him.

I wasn’t able to snap a pic of our assailant but I was able to catch the other man harassing the car in front of us.

For that car, the driver fully opened his window so the harasser’s full arm was already in the car. I’m not sure what happened after as my view got blocked.

It was really scary as there were around 7-10 men and I saw other men were looking and snooping around the cars while one main guy distracts the driver as this whole thing was going on.

ALWAYS REMEMBER to lock your doors

Article Written by: Gina Limpingco-Marcos

Posted with her permission.

  

When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs.

Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City together with your own parking space at the low amount of only P12,000.00+ and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

Sinulog 2013 Grand Parade winners named

6

^-AA⁺A

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

CEBU CITY -- The winners of the Sinulog 2013 Grand Parade were named Monday afternoon at the Cebu City Sports Complex (CCSC).

The winners of the Free Interpretation and Sinulog-Based categories were made to perform again around 1 p.m. of Monday.

Here is a list of the awardees:

A. Free Interpretation Category

First Place -- Tribu Lingganay of Alang-Alang, Leyte
Second Place -- Lumad Basakanon
Third Place -- Tribu Himag-Ulaw of Placer, Masbate
Fourth Place -- Talamban National High School
Fifth Place -- The Land of Beauty and Bounty

Best in Costume and Musicality -- Lumad Basakanon

B. Sinulog-Based Category

First Place -- Tangub City's Sinanduloy Cultural Troupe
Second Place -- Carcar City Division
Third Place -- Kulturang Placereño of Masbate Dance Troupe-Placer, Masbate
Fourth Place -- Talisay City Central School
Fifth Place -- Apas National High School

Best in Costume and Musicality -- Tangub City's Sinanduloy Cultural Troupe

C. Street Dancing Category

First Place -- Tangub City's Sinanduloy Cultural Troupe
Second Place -- Carcar City Division
Third Place -- Lumad Basakanon

D. On-Site Decor Category

First Place -- Bangko Sentral Ng Pilipinas
Second Place -- St. Cecilia's College-Cebu Inc.
Third Place -- Manros Plaza

E. Visual Merchandising Category

First Place -- Elizabeth Mall
Second Place -- Gaisano Main
Third Place -- Gaisano Capital-Tisa

F. Higante Category

First Place -- Hershiel (H-19)
Second Place -- Giovanni B. Abos (H-09)
Third Place -- Julius J. Buligan (H-08)

G. Float Category

First Place -- Lactobiotics Worlwide Corporation (F-09)
Second Place -- Casino Femme Alcohol (F-34)
Third Place -- Rose Pharmacy Inc. (F-10)

H. Puppetters Category

First Place -- Elvis-Sinulog Rock (P-20)
Second Place -- Lebron James-Sinulog Heats (P-21)
Third Place -- Jason S. Santiago and Noel Quijada Jr. (P-10)

In an interview with Sun.Star, performers of Tribu Lingganay of Alang-Alang, Leyte, said they were happy that they again emerged as champion.

"Syempre, masaya kami na nanalo kami for the second time around. Masaya talaga kami. Hindi namin in-expect na mananalo kami. Thank you Lord. Thank you Sr. Sto. Niño," one of the performers said.

Members of Tangub City's Sinanduloy Cultural Troupe also expressed gratitude for winning this year's Sinulog 2013 Grand Parade under the Sinulog-Based category.

Noriel Erap, one of the trainers of the group, said they are grateful for the award. He said they will hold a celebration and treat the performers to a vacation in Dakak Park Beach Resort in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte. (Jay Ann Clamohoy/Sunnex)

When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs.

Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City together with your own parking space at the low amount of only P12,000.00+ and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

6

Vigan 101: Where to Stay, What to Do and Where to Eat When in Vigan!

Written By
Frank Ruaya & Mae Ilagan

•  

Vigan 101

 your favorite internet blogger tandem has launched yet another voyage this year and for their 2013 opener, they’ve decided to journey up north once again to experience the magic of historical Vigan for the very first time!

The 10 hr journey to Vigan, Ilocos Sur……

 10 hrs inside the bus ain’t an easy thing but for the spirit of fun and adventure, these 2 nut heads didn’t mind the day long journey despite their busy work schedules.  Frank for example ends his work shift at 7am. He went straight to the bus terminal to meet Mae for their 9am trip!

 To go to Vigan, it’s best if you ride the Partas bus along  Aurora Blvd in Cubao. The regular air-con bus fare costs P675 while the deluxe costs P725. They don’t accept advanced reservations so be sure to be at the terminal early!

they reached La Union by sunset and saw this spectacular view…

 They left Manila around 8am and arrived 11hours after!

they checked-in at the Gordion Hotel which is considered as one of the most respected inVigan. It currently has a total of 21 rooms and has been in business since the 1950s!

 They were warmly welcomed by the staff who attended to their every need! Mariel, who was in charge of the Front Desk made sure the two were well taken cared of. She even gave them a map of Vigan and a lot of tips and suggestions on where to go. Gordion Hotelprovides great customer service and both Frank and Mae were very pleased!

 The two were really tired and famished after being in the bus the whole day so they’ve decided to have dinner at the Gordion Hotel and tried some of their traditional Ilocano best sellers! They had Igado and Pinakbet!

 Gordion Hotel’s Pinakbet: super healthy with a powerhouse of flavors!

 the larger than life staircase at the Gordion Hotel was surely eye catching!

 they decided to stay at the Junior suite

 it had a queen sized bed, a living area, tv, dresser and mini-ref. It was furnished with antique furniture to give you that very Filipino-Spanish traditional feel! It felt like stepping into another era!

 the bathroom was quite spacious and had a very reliable heater!

  

 after the 2 settled their things, they’ve decided to take a late night stroll along the famousCalle Crisologo before calling it a day!

 Calle Crisologo: the ultimate place in Vigan!

 it was a very quite and enchanting night and the 2 enjoyed taking night shots as they walked  long the cobblestoned street.

Since the street lights were yellow, the whole ambiance felt very vintage as if they were inside a sepia photograph

 festive yet very peaceful. Unlike in other cities, Vigan is one of the very few places where you can safely roam the streets at night!

 at the end of Calle Crisologo, they found the only opened establishment which happens to also be one of the most popular dining places in Vigan… Cafe Leona!

the two decided to each have a glass of wine and a serving of Vigan longanisa before heading back to the hotel.

They always look forward to drinking wine together and look for nice quiet cozy places to chill  while they talk about the day’s happenings. It was another tiring trip, but it was worth it! They knew that tomorrow was gonna be a big day for them!

 Frank and Mae woke up quite early the next day and before touring the city, they’ve decided to have breakfast at Gordion Hotel‘s  Garden by the Ruins!

 Frank had Vigan Longanisa

 Mae on the other hand ordered Gourmet Tuyo

 Aside from the Garden by the Ruins, guests may also relax and chill at the Cafe Alhambra

Gordion Hotel by day. The only colorfully painted Hotel in Vigan. Impossible for people to miss it!

the 2 decided to tour the city in style… and the best way to experience historical Vigan is to ride the Kalesa! For only 150/hr, you can visit around 8 popular spots and you also get an instant tour guide! The tour usually lasts for 3 hours so prepare around P450 for the tour.

 They were fortunate to meet the very friendly Robin and his 3-old horse named Jessa.

 For their 1st stop, Robin took them to the Bantay Bell Tower

It looked so majestic and enchanting! The place looked soooo dreamy!

Next stop was the Vigan Museum which was also the birth place of Father Jose Burgos, one of the 3 priests of GOMBURZA

entrance fee: P20

 the two definitely enjoyed looking at all the historical icons and antiques…

 Frank acting silly as usual

 they were mesmerized by the antique kitchenwares  and dinnerwares

 They always look forward in trying out and learning  new things with each travel experience.

When in Vigan, you never should miss visiting the Paburnayan or the place where people make clay pots

Frank seriously  working on his pot

Mae doesn’t mind getting her hands dirty for the sake of experience 

 another must see attraction in Vigan would be the Baluarte- a local zoo owned by Gov. Chavit Singson.  No entrance fee!

 as you enter the Baluarte, be sure to get a cool cup of sugarcane calamansi juice for P40

 Frank with his refreshing Sugarcane Calamansi juice

Here you can meet a lot of wild animals! Fortunately, the tiger in the photo seemed to be very full that it didn’t bother eating our annoying writer at the back

 The Baluarte also has this relaxing butterfly sanctuary filled with butterflies flying all around!

 Frank being one with nature. Mae was so envious! 

 Their last stop was at the Hidden Garden where both enjoyed more flora and fauna and had another unforgettable food trip!

  

 The Hidden Garden was such a relaxing place, people should never miss it!

 here you can buy export quality pots to take back home

 they found a very delightful dining spot inside the Hidden Garden

 they found these Asian tables and decided to settle there  for lunch…

 the people of Vigan pride themselves of their local delicacies and their  trade mark Vigan Empanada should be enjoyed a lot!

they ordered 2 of the most celebrated dishes in Vigan.. the Bagnet and Poqui-poqui!

Poqui -Poqui is a popular Ilocano dish made from egg and eggplant. It may not be the best looking dish but definitely one of the tastiest!

 double-fried ultra crispy pork specialty of the Ilocanos… the ever mouthwatering Bagnet!

Literally a heart stopper!

 After a short siesta , the two once again went to the famous Calle Crisologo to buy pasalubong and try another popular delicacy while the sun was still up. Best time to visit according to the locals would be around 5pm onwards!

and so the two did their thing….

 after a few minutes, they stopped by one of the makers of the best when in comes toVigan Empanada – Irene’s!

 Irene wasn’t really there that day but good thing her mom was there and told  them about their business. 

The two learned that Irene’s family had been making Vigan Empanada for decades now…

 Mae was able to take quick shots as their empanadas were prepared

 Nothing beats having authentic Vigan Empanada along Calle Crisologo! Completes the whole experience!

 each Vigan empanada costs around P35

Irene’s own recipe was definitely meatier and richer than the others! No wonder they”re soooo popular!

 never go home without these….

 Night time came and they  just couldn’t resist the wonderful night ambiance at theGarden by the Ruins at Gordion Hotel.

The Gordion Hotel is probably one of the most romantic places you can find in Vigan!

 <3

one of the most romantic spots in Vigan..

 Dinengdeng with seafood: It was way different than the usual  for it had a very light “consome” style soup

 Gordion Hotel‘s Bagnet was truly crispilicious!! Their homemade Ilocano Vinegar tasted the best!

 Gordion Hotel‘s own version of Bagnet  - thinly sliced crispy pork bites! Frank and Mae just couldn’t get enough of it!

Too bad they had to wake up really early to catch the earliest bus bound back to Manila. It was really hard for them to leave such a lovely place and their Junior Suite at Gordion Hotel was just soooo cozy they wished they could sleep more….

 But of course, they both know that they will definitely be back soon to discover more about historical Vigan!  It was truly a great way to start the year and they are looking forward to more trips in the coming days!

They brought home with them lots of goodies, new  tales to tell , captivating photos to show and a whole bunch of experiences and memories to cherish….. as always, they came back never the same

When in Cebu City, please visit http://www.gregmelep.com for your real estate and retirement needs. Avail of the opportunity to own a condominium unit in Cebu City together with your own parking space at the low amount of only P12,000.00+ and House and Lot @ P 7,306.81/month only. Hurry while supply of units still last. Just call the Tel. Nos. shown herein: (053)555-84-64/09164422611/09173373687.

The world is really a big classroom and like them, we should all be courageous enough to get out there to educated and learn not only about what’s out there, but to discover and understand more about ourselves.

No matter how busy our lives may be, may we all find the time to get out of our comforts zones, conquer new places and experience how it is to truly LIVE!