A travel & adventure blog by Kara Santos
Did you know there are currently four UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in the Philippines? The province of Apayao was recently designated the country’s newest biosphere reserve as part of UNESCO’s initiative to conserve and manage biodiversity. Apayao is the country’s fourth province named a biosphere reserve, after Albay, Palawan and Puerto Galera.
Bataan, a 3 to 4-hour drive from Manila via the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), is a rising road trip destination near Manila. This province best known for historical landmarks like the Shrine of Valor at Mt. Samat and cultural destination Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar also has spots that will appeal to foodies.
Manila boasts a variety of historical and cultural museums that offer a glimpse into the Philippines’ rich heritage. The three major museums of the National Museum Complex, all within walking distance of each other, house the biggest collections of artifacts and artworks from the pre-colonial period up to this day. Other museums and parks in Manila also provide areas to appreciate culture and nature.
There’s something nostalgic and calming about railway travel that I enjoy whenever I ride trains in other countries. From the distinctive horn announcing arrivals and departures, the rhythmic clickety-clack of the wheels, the swaying motion on the tracks, and the changing scenery of rural landscapes, traveling by train offers a different experience from what I’m normally used to.
Compared to many other cities around the world, Metro Manila is not a bike-friendly destination. The city itself, with the urban sprawl, horrible traffic, and lack of safe and secure bicycle lanes, makes it pretty scary to explore on two wheels. Sure, you can find many areas for urban biking in the city but chances are, these spots are difficult to get to or you’ll be exposed to the polluted city most of the time.
My photo biking in Intramuros in Manila is featured in National Geographic Magazine!
Sometime in early 2023, one of the magazine’s photo editors reached out when they were looking for an image to represent new bike lanes being built around Intramuros in Manila. They found this photo with me and a Bambike from an article I published on this travel blog in March 2019 and asked if they could publish it.
We’ve all got to start from Zero.
Sometimes, a visit to one landmark can spur you to get out of the house and give you a reason to travel somewhere. If you follow this blog, you know that I like to collect random things or visit specific reference points during road trips. One new travel quest I want to do in the future is to loop some of the many islands in the Philippines by motorcycle (the larger ones) or by bike (the smaller ones). And the best place to start in each island would be the Kilometer Zero markers on the road.
Planning to travel Northern Luzon soon? Whether you’re a seasoned road trip warrior or a travel newbie, NLEX Lakbay Norte Travel Guide is your new ultimate buddy as you hit the roads.
NLEX Lakbay Norte Travel Guide is NLEX Corporation’s newest digital campaign showcasing what north has to offer. This travel guide is a trusty and reliable companion that will provide all the information you need for a smooth, enjoyable, and safe adventures.
Continue reading “NLEX Lakbay Norte is the Ultimate Guide to Northern Luzon”La Union, the surfing capital of the Northern Philippines, has always been a popular destination for those coming from the metro, especially during weekends and holidays. There’s something about the magical sunsets and laidback surf life that attracts families, couples, weekend warriors, backpackers, digital nomads, and solo travelers, and keeps them coming back.
Situated on the northeast tip of Luzon Island, the province of Cagayan is a paradise for nature lovers and history buffs. Cagayan was originally one of the earliest provinces established in the Spanish colonial period covering the whole northeastern part of the island of Luzon, so you can expect it to be rich in both heritage and natural attractions.
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