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- Chasing Sunsets in the Philippines: Experience the Magic!
Chasing Sunsets in the Philippines: Experience the Magic!
Stories: Whale Shark Watching in Oslob - Intramuros, Manila: Step Back in Time! - Celebrate the Kuyamis Festival in Misamis Oriental! - Surigao City: A Growing Hub for World Cruisers!
KGM Resorts
January 10, 2025
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Hello Everyone,
Welcome to Finding Utopia, your go-to newsletter for discovering how to travel the Philippines and beyond!
Here is what we have for you today.
Chasing Sunsets in the Philippines: Experience the Magic!
Whale Shark Watching in Oslob, Cebu: Swim with Giants!
Intramuros, Manila: Step Back in Time, Explore the Wonders!
Celebrate the Kuyamis Festival in Misamis Oriental!
Surigao City: A Growing Hub for World Cruisers!
Chasing Sunsets in the Philippines: Experience the Magic!
Philippines - Sunsets have a way of captivating our hearts, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and gold. The Philippines, with its stunning landscapes and serene coastlines, offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world. In our latest blog, we take you on a journey to discover the best sunset destinations across the Philippines.
Where to Chase Sunsets
Manila Bay: A timeless favorite, the iconic sunsets of Manila Bay are a daily spectacle. With the city skyline as a backdrop, the view is nothing short of mesmerizing.
El Nido, Palawan: Known for its pristine beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs, El Nido offers sunsets that are a perfect blend of tranquility and natural beauty.
Siargao Island: More than a surfer's paradise, Siargao boasts magical sunsets that illuminate its lush landscapes and sparkling waters.
Vigan, Ilocos Sur: As the sun sets over this historic town, the cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture are bathed in a golden glow, offering a picturesque view.
Tips for the Perfect Sunset Experience
Timing is Key: Arrive at your chosen spot 30 minutes before sunset to enjoy the changing colors of the sky.
Capture the Moment: Bring a camera or smartphone to immortalize the beauty. Experiment with angles and lighting for that perfect shot.
Soak in the Atmosphere: Put your camera down for a moment and simply enjoy the serenity and wonder of nature.
Why We Chase Sunsets
Sunsets symbolize endings but also promise new beginnings. They remind us to pause, breathe, and appreciate life’s fleeting yet beautiful moments.
👉 Read our full blog to discover more amazing sunset destinations and tips for your next adventure.
Let us inspire you to chase sunsets and create unforgettable memories across the Philippines!
Whale Shark Watching in Oslob, Cebu: Swim with Giants!
Whale Sharks - Have you ever dreamed of swimming alongside the gentle giants of the sea? Oslob, Cebu, offers you an unforgettable experience—an up-close encounter with the majestic whale sharks, known locally as butanding. Our latest blog dives into everything you need to know to make the most of this incredible adventure.
Why Oslob, Cebu is the Place to Be
Located on the southern coast of Cebu, Oslob has become a world-renowned destination for its whale shark watching experience. These enormous yet gentle creatures frequent the waters of Tan-awan, making it one of the few places in the world where you can observe them so closely.
What to Expect
Early Morning Start: Whale shark watching typically starts at dawn and lasts until noon. The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of an immersive experience.
Guided Encounters: Trained guides ensure the safety of both visitors and the whale sharks, maintaining a respectful interaction.
Unforgettable Memories: Witnessing these creatures up close is awe-inspiring and offers excellent photo opportunities!
Tips for a Responsible Experience
To ensure a sustainable and respectful interaction, here are some essential tips:
Follow Local Guidelines: Always listen to the instructions of your guides to protect both yourself and the whale sharks.
Avoid Touching or Feeding: Maintaining a safe distance ensures the whale sharks are not disturbed in their natural habitat.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect the marine ecosystem by opting for eco-friendly sunscreen products.
Other Attractions Nearby
After your whale shark adventure, explore other attractions in Oslob
Tumalog Falls: A short ride from the whale shark site, these cascading waterfalls are perfect for a refreshing dip.
Sumilon Island: Known for its sandbars and crystal-clear waters, it’s a great spot for snorkeling and relaxation.
Heritage Tour: Visit the Oslob Church and the Cuartel, a historic military barracks.
Plan Your Adventure
Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Oslob’s whale shark watching is an adventure you won’t want to miss.
👉 Read our full blog for detailed tips and start planning your trip to Oslob today!
New Year, Better Choices with Lumen
Start the new year with a plan that works for you. Lumen, the world’s first handheld metabolic coach, helps you take control of your wellness journey with real-time insights into your metabolism.
Whether you’re burning carbs after a workout or aiming to maintain your energy levels, Lumen’s personalized recommendations adapt to your unique needs. This is the year you make your resolutions stick with a smarter approach to health.
Intramuros, Manila: Step Back in Time, Explore the Wonders!
Manila - Dive into the heart of Philippine history with a visit to Intramuros, the famed "Walled City" of Manila. In our latest blog, we take you on a journey through the cobblestone streets, storied landmarks, and vibrant culture that make Intramuros a must-visit destination.
Highlights of Intramuros
Fort Santiago: Once a key defensive stronghold, this historic site honors the life of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal and offers stunning views and solemn gardens.
San Agustin Church: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this baroque church is the oldest stone church in the Philippines and a masterpiece of Spanish-era architecture.
Casa Manila: A glimpse into colonial life, this museum recreates the elegance and traditions of a Spanish Filipino home in the 19th century.
The Manila Cathedral: With its grand facade and intricate interiors, the cathedral stands as a symbol of resilience and faith, having been rebuilt multiple times throughout history.
What to Do
Walking Tours: Join a guided or self-paced tour to uncover the stories behind the centuries-old walls.
Calesa Rides: Experience nostalgia with a horse-drawn carriage ride through Intramuros’ iconic streets.
Night Walks: Witness the city walls come alive with lights and revel in the quiet charm of Intramuros after dark.
Why Visit Intramuros
Intramuros is not just a destination—it's a journey into the Philippines' colonial past. Every corner tells a story of resilience, faith, and cultural fusion. It’s the perfect place to connect with history, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler.
👉 Read our blog to plan your trip to Intramuros and uncover its timeless charm.
Step into history, explore the vibrant culture, and let Intramuros leave an indelible mark on your travel adventures.
Celebrate the Kuyamis Festival in Misamis Oriental!
Kuyanis Festival - Kick off the year with a vibrant celebration of culture, heritage, and local flavors at the Kuyamis Festival, held from January 13 to 17 in Misamis Oriental. This annual festival highlights the province's rich history and the significance of its namesake, kuyamis, a sweet variety of coconut that has been integral to the region's identity.
Why Kuyamis Festival is a Must-Visit
The Kuyamis Festival is a joyful blend of tradition and modernity, featuring colorful street dances, unique cultural presentations, and culinary delights centered around coconuts. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Festival Highlights
Street Dancing Competition: Witness dancers in stunning kuyamis-inspired costumes as they showcase captivating choreography rooted in local traditions.
Kuyamis Trade Fair: Explore a wide array of coconut-based products, from delectable treats to innovative crafts, spotlighting Misamis Oriental’s thriving coconut industry.
Sports and Adventure Activities: Participate in or cheer for thrilling activities like beach volleyball and dragon boat races, showcasing the active spirit of the community.
Coconut Culinary Showdown: Experience a feast for the senses as chefs create inventive dishes and desserts featuring the star ingredient—coconut!
Cultural Showcases: Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Misamis Oriental through music, dance, and performances that reflect its rich cultural heritage.
What Makes the Kuyamis Festival Unique
The Kuyamis Festival is not just a celebration; it's a heartfelt homage to Misamis Oriental's agricultural roots and its people’s creativity and resilience. It’s a perfect blend of festivity and advocacy, promoting sustainability and the importance of the coconut industry in the province.
👉 Plan your visit and be part of this spectacular celebration.
Dive into the festivities, savor the local flavors, and create unforgettable memories at the Kuyamis Festival. It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss!
This cannabis startup pioneered “rapid onset” gummies
Most people prefer to smoke cannabis but that isn’t an option if you’re at work or in public.
That’s why we were so excited when we found out about Mood’s new Rapid Onset THC Gummies. They can take effect in as little as 5 minutes without the need for a lighter, lingering smells or any coughing.
Nobody will ever know you’re enjoying some THC.
We recommend you try them out because they offer a 100% money-back guarantee. And for a limited time, you can receive 20% off with code FIRST20.
Surigao City: A Growing Hub for World Cruisers!
Surigao City is charting a course to global recognition as a premier clearance hub for international cruisers navigating the world in yachts. With its welcoming approach and efficient immigration support, this vibrant city in the Philippines is quickly becoming a favorite stopover for global adventurers.
Why Surigao City is Making Waves
Since its initiative began last year, Surigao City has attracted yachts and cruisers from around the globe. Offering free assistance through the City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (CTCAO), Surigao stands out from other destinations where cruisers often rely on brokers.
By the Numbers
18 yachts from 12 countries arrived in 2024, carrying 113 cruisers.
Most visitors hailed from Denmark (33), Switzerland (12), and France (9).
In 2025, Surigao has already welcomed two yachts from France, carrying 20 international cruisers.
What Cruisers Love About Surigao City
Cruisers typically stay 3–7 days in Surigao City, not just for immigration processing but also to:
Resupply fuel, water, food, and other essentials.
Explore local bars and restaurants.
Discover the city’s vibrant cultural and social scene.
Roselyn Merlin, the city’s tourism officer, shared that Surigao’s appeal lies in its seamless services and welcoming atmosphere, which make cruisers feel like valued tourists rather than mere passersby.
A Promising Future
With its unique approach to tourism and growing popularity among world cruisers, Surigao City is set to receive even more international visitors in 2025. This development not only boosts the local economy but also reinforces Surigao’s position as a must-visit destination in the Philippines.
👉 Whether you’re sailing the seas or planning your next getaway, keep Surigao City on your travel radar.
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