Batanes Discover the Enchanting Beauty

In partnership with

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.

• Batanes Discover the Enchanting Beauty

• Hidden Gems:  Aliwagwag Falls: Discover it’s Magnificent Elegance  

• The Pulse: Northern Samar Discover the Underwater Wonders

• OFW News: Enhancing OFW Comfort-New Lounges at International Airports

Batanes Discover the Enchanting Beauty

Welcome to this week's edition of Finding Utopia! Our latest blog post, published last Monday, July 29 which highlights the breathtaking beauty and unique culture of Batanes, Philippines. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, Batanes is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience.

Journey to Batanes: The Northern Gem of the Philippines

Batanes, the northernmost province of the Philippines, is a true hidden gem. Its rolling hills, stunning coastlines, and traditional stone houses make it a paradise for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. The island group is composed of ten islands, with the three largest ones being Batan, Itbayat, and Sabtang.

Highlights of Batanes

Breathtaking Landscapes

• Marlboro Hills: Known for its vast rolling hills and panoramic views, Marlboro Hills is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers. The sight of cows and horses grazing against the backdrop of the azure sea is truly captivating.

• Vayang Rolling Hills: Another picturesque spot, Vayang Rolling Hills offers a serene landscape of lush greenery and gentle slopes that lead to the coastline.

Rich Cultural Heritage

• Ivatan Houses: The traditional stone houses of the Ivatan people are a testament to their resilience and ingenuity. These houses, built to withstand the harsh weather conditions, provide a glimpse into the island's unique architectural heritage.

• Sabtang Island: A short boat ride from Batan Island, Sabtang is known for its well-preserved Ivatan villages and stunning natural rock formations like the Nakabuang Arch.

Historical Sites

• Basco Lighthouse: Offering a panoramic view of the Batanes islands, Basco Lighthouse is a popular spot for tourists to enjoy the sunset and the surrounding seascape.

• Tukon Church: Also known as Mt. Carmel Chapel, this picturesque church is set atop a hill, providing a scenic backdrop for reflection and prayer.

Culinary Delights

Local Ivatan Cuisine: Savor the unique flavors of Ivatan cuisine, which includes dishes like uvud (banana heart patties), lunis (Ivatan pork adobo), and turmeric rice. These traditional dishes are a delightful way to experience the local culture.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Batanes is from March to June, during the dry season, when the weather is perfect for exploring the islands.

• Packing Essentials: Don’t forget to bring comfortable trekking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

• How to Get There: Batanes is accessible via flights from Manila and Clark to Basco, the capital town. Detailed travel information is available on our blog.

Take Away

Batanes is a destination that offers something for everyone, from its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage to its warm and welcoming community. Read our full blog post here BATANES (kgmresorts.com) to discover all the incredible things this island paradise has to offer.

Thank you for being part of our community. Stay tuned for more exciting travel insights in our next newsletter!

Aliwagwag Falls: Discover it’s Magnificent Elegance  

This week's Hidden Gem! Our blog post published last Friday July 26, which highlights the breathtaking beauty and awe-inspiring grandeur of Aliwagwag Falls, Philippines. Known as one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the country, Aliwagwag Falls is a natural wonder that promises an unforgettable adventure for all nature lovers.

Aliwagwag Falls: Nature’s Masterpiece

Aliwagwag Falls, located in Cateel, Davao Oriental, is renowned for its multi-tiered cascades and stunning natural landscape. Often referred to as the “stairway to heaven,” this majestic waterfall features 84 cascading steps that form a unique and mesmerizing pattern, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and serenity.

Highlights of Aliwagwag Falls

Majestic Cascades

• Multi-Tiered Waterfalls: Aliwagwag Falls is composed of 84 tiers, each with its own unique cascade. The sight of water flowing down the stair-like formations is truly a spectacle to behold.

• Pristine Pools: At the base of the cascades, pristine pools of clear, cool water offer a perfect spot for a refreshing swim or a leisurely dip, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Adventure Activities

• Trekking and Hiking: The surrounding area of Aliwagwag Falls is a haven for trekkers and hikers. The trails offer varying levels of difficulty, catering to both novice and experienced adventurers.

• Zipline Experience: For thrill-seekers, the Aliwagwag Eco Park offers a zipline experience that lets you soar above the falls, providing a bird’s eye view of this natural wonder.

Natural Beauty and Biodiversity

• Lush Vegetation: The area surrounding Aliwagwag Falls is covered in lush, verdant vegetation, home to diverse flora and fauna. The rich biodiversity adds to the charm and appeal of this natural paradise.

• Scenic Views: From the top of the falls, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Aliwagwag Falls is during the dry season, from December to May, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities and the water flow is just right for swimming and exploring.

• Packing Essentials: Don’t forget to bring comfortable trekking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

• How to Get There: Aliwagwag Falls is accessible via a scenic drive from Davao City. Detailed travel information and directions are available on our blog.

Take Away

Aliwagwag Falls is a destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Exploring Aliwagwag Falls is not just about witnessing its magnificent cascades; it’s about immersing yourself in the serene environment and experiencing the rich biodiversity of the area. Each visit contributes to the preservation of this natural wonder and supports sustainable tourism in the region. We encourage you to venture beyond the usual tourist paths and discover the hidden gems that make Aliwagwag Falls truly special.

Read our full blog post here Aliwagwag Falls (kgmresorts.com) to uncover all the incredible experiences this natural paradise has to offer.

Thank you for being part of our community. Stay tuned for more exciting travel insights in our next newsletter!

The Pulse: Northern Samar Discover the Underwater Wonders

This week, we’re thrilled to share an exciting development that could put Northern Samar on the map as a premier diving destination in Eastern Visayas.

Northern Samar: The Next Diving Hotspot

Northern Samar is poised to become a prime diving destination, thanks to its expansive seas, coastal wonders, and rich marine biodiversity. Recently, the local government hosted a groundbreaking three-day freediving certification course in partnership with Tugkad Freediving. This initiative aims to cultivate a community of skilled freed divers who can enhance the region's tourism experience by offering diving tours and sharing their knowledge of Northern Samar's underwater treasures.

Highlights of the Freediving Workshop

The workshop, the first of its kind in the region, provided participants with the fundamentals of breath-holding techniques, safety protocols, and the science behind optimal freediving performance. The course also included open water diving sessions, introducing divers to the breathtaking underwater scenery of Northern Samar.

Coastal Wonders Await

Northern Samar boasts a stunning coastline featuring rock formations, maritime forests, coves, and fine sandy beaches. These natural attractions, combined with the vibrant marine life, make it an ideal spot for freed divers and underwater enthusiasts. Key locations like Mapanas and Lavezares offer pristine waters teeming with vibrant corals and a plethora of fish species.

Why Northern Samar?

Surrounded by the San Bernardino Strait, the Samar Sea, and the Pacific Ocean, Northern Samar is the third largest island in the Philippines and home to 24 towns, 20 of which are coastal areas. Tourist-favorite islands such as Biri, Capul, San Antonio, and San Vicente add to its allure, making it a haven for those seeking water adventures.

Take Away

As Northern Samar takes steps to develop its diving tourism, now is the perfect time to explore this hidden paradise. Whether you're an experienced diver or a newcomer to the sport, the region's underwater beauty promises an unforgettable experience.

We encourage you to read more about this exciting development here Northern Samar eyed as next diving hub in Eastern Visayas | Philippine News Agency (pna.gov.ph). Stay tuned for more travel updates and start planning your next adventure with Finding Utopia.

OFW News: Enhancing OFW Comfort-New Lounges at International Airports

New OFW Lounges to Open in International Airports

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has announced plans to expand its network of OFW lounges to more international airports within the year. Following the successful launch of lounges at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3, OWWA Administrator Arnel Ignacio confirmed that additional lounges are in the pipeline, including one at NAIA Terminal 2.

Supporting OFWs During Travel Disruptions

These lounges have already proven invaluable, especially during weather disruptions such as Typhoon Carina, when numerous flights were canceled. The lounges provided OFWs with a comfortable place to stay and ample food, mitigating the impact of flight cancellations.

Daily Service to Hundreds of OFWs

Currently, the lounges serve approximately 850 to 1,000 OFWs daily, offering a sanctuary and support for Filipino migrant workers. The initiative is part of OWWA's broader commitment to enhancing services for OFWs, which recently earned ISO 9001:2015 Certification for its adherence to International Standards of Quality Management.

Commitment to Quality and Efficiency

OWWA is dedicated to ensuring the swift and efficient delivery of services. This includes repatriation and post-repatriation processes, death and burial benefits, language training for household service workers, and educational scholarship programs. Administrator Ignacio emphasized the importance of quick and well-coordinated service delivery, especially for repatriation efforts that require international collaboration and proper funding.

We are proud to see these initiatives supporting the well-being of our OFWs. Stay tuned for more updates. OWWA eyes setting up more OFW lounges in other international airports (msn.com)

Thank you for being a part of our community. We look forward to bringing you more news and updates in our next edition!

Warm regards,

KGM Resorts - Finding Utopia

Upgrade Your Sanctuary with Cozy Earth Bamboo Viscose Sheet Set

After a busy day, there's nothing better than unwinding in bed, catching up on your favorite show, and simply chilling out. But for true relaxation, ordinary sheets just won't cut it - you deserve the pinnacle of luxury.

Introducing Cozy Earth sheets.

Crafted from 100% premium bamboo viscose, a soft and sustainable fabric, these sheets offer unrivaled softness that will make it hard to leave your bed in the morning. Plus, they're designed to become even cozier with every wash, ensuring years of blissful sleep.

Experience the height of comfort with Cozy Earth sheets, and with their 100-night risk-free trial, you can try them out with complete peace of mind.

Elevate Your Sleep Sanctuary Today. Order yours today and start Your 100-Night Trial.