Mindanao, the second largest islands of the Philippines, is a land
of towring mosques and malong-clad women, where boldly-striped vintas
ply the waters between houses perched precariuosly on stilts. Here,
ethnic tribes weave glorious tales of brave warriors and haughty princesses
into colorful tapestries and fabrics.
Mindanao is also a nature lover's paradise: Tiny Camiguin isle enchants
with its white sand islands and volcanic chains. Zamboanga has pink
sand beaches for beach-lover and rolling greens for the golf enthusiast.
Davao's caves promise adventure for spelunkers; in this land of fruits
and flowers, parklands are planted with groves of durian, rambutan and
other exotic tropical fruit trees, intersperesed with tropical blooms
and exotic orchids. Cotabato's pineapple plantations and Bukidnon's
citrus farms delight with nature's freshest harvests.
The adventurous travel would probably wish to conquer Mindanao's vast
mountain wilderness or explore the many forests and wildlife reserves.
Mt. Apo in Davao del Sur is the country's highest peak. Climbers are
trekkers will find on its slopes forests exotic flora, steaming geysers,
rainwater lakes, swift flowing rivers and cascading waterfalls; and
at itsbase, Mount Apo Science Foundation, an agricultural institutuin
surrounded by woodlands ideal for bird-watching.
A plethora of water falls awaits the visitor to Lanao del Norte. Its
provicial capital, Iligan, is home to the legendary Maria Cristina Falls,
100 feet higher than the awesome of Niagara. Lanao del Sur, around majestic
Lanao Lake, is the Islam Center of the South. Here are found repositories
of Muslim culture such as the Mindanao State University, the King Faisal
Center for Arabic Studies and the Aga Khan Museum.
The artistry and diversity of ethnic tribes lend a richness to local
color. The Maranao have their okir, a curvilinear carving tradition
that sets off their houses, musical instruments, personal ornaments
and household implements in brilliant colorful motifs. Visitors will
find unique souvenir items among the handicrafts of the T'boli, who
weave theirfamous t'nalak patterns. The Sama tribes hand-weave cool
mats in jewel colors along the walks of their stilt houses inviting
spectators to bargain for their wares. The sea-faring Badjao dive for
coveted South Sea pearls. Arts and crafts demonstration tours, tribal,
festivals, and visits to ethnic villages provide insight into the everyday
lives of the cultural minorities.
Free Tours around your City
Tours of local attractions take place on a regular basis but you can organize your own
tour with just your kids or with a few other families in your neighborhood. You may be
surprised by what companies and organizations will provide free tours of their facilities.
The fire hall is always intriguing to young children. If you call your local fire hall and
speak with the fire chief he will be happy to arrange a time for you to stop in with your
children. They will show the kids around, let them see inside the fire engine and if there
is time the children can see a fireman in all of his gear. Not only is this fun, it is a safety
precaution for kids. Chances are they will be less scared of a firefighter in his full
uniform with a mask if he or she sees one before an emergency. You will have to be
prepared for the tour to be cut short if an emergency is called in. Free Tours around your City
Motivational & Inspirational Quotes: We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time. T. S. Eliot
It is better to travel well than to arrive. Buddha |
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