TACLOBAN, PHILIPPINES

We would like to share this destination - Tacloban, Philippines. A historical city, interesting and relaxing. Tacloban is only about 1 hour and 10 mins by plane from Manila.

The Leyte Landing Site. The site where Gen. McArthur landed is now a beautiful park. Statues towering more than 6 feet high depicting the General's landing is located on the side of "RED beach" (beach was named as Red beach because of the reddish color of the ocean on this part of the island, some people say this was the blood shed on this beach during the war, but that's another story).

"I Shall Return"- Douglas McArthur. This was the famous quote from General Douglas McArthur when he left the Philippines. His return was the key that ended WWII. It was in Tacloban McArthur landed, a historical place one should visit.

A brass "Proclamation" can be found on another part of the park stating Gen. McArthurs return, and that the Philippine's redemption has come.

The San Juanico Bridge. When you visit Tacloban, do not miss the San Juanico Bridge.

This bridge was constructed during the Marcos regime connecting Leyte and Samar. This is the longest bridge in the the Philippines, stretching for about 1 and a half kilometer.

If you would look closely, the bridge is shaped L and S. L- Leyte, S - Samar.

Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum. This white building was constructed with a Grand Ballroom and many rooms. Each room is designed to represent each region in the Philippines. Room design and furnishings are original native furnishings from the regions that they represent. While passing through each room, it would give you the feel that you have teleported to another region. Every single room is uniquely designed like you were really in that region.

Tacloban is a small and yet developed city. You'll easily find cheap accomodations around town. There are fast food chains, "mini" malls, coffee shops. Internet? Ah, yes. You wouldn't believe if I say that there is atleast one internet shop in a single street. There are internet shops everywhere! Another thing, in this city, almost everyone has Cable Television! I was really curious why "everyone" has Cable Television so I started to ask around - Cable Television in Tacloban was made very cheap that everyone can afford it! (I wish this was the same in Manila!)

If you are looking for a night life, you can go to this "night road". From a "street store" you can buy beer, ice and "pulutan" (finger foods, barbeque, etc). Then you'll be provided with plactic chairs and a table. You can then find yourself a good spot in the road stretch and drink with your friends!

Hope you enjoyed reading. Until our next travel....