Luzon

The biggest island in the Philippines is Luzon, home to the capital Manila City. There are many things to discover in the northern part of the Philippine archipelago, it might be best known for the rice terraces, e.g. in Banaue, which are also called “eighth wonder of the world”. There are buses going from Manila to that region, which is quite an effort on a bumpy road climbing up the hill.

Other attractions are Baguio, which used to be the summer residence of the Philippine government due to the cool climate; or the cities of Vigan and Laoag, where Spanish influence can be found in terms of old colonial houses and administrative buildings. To get there, you could either take buses starting from Manila or fly into Laoag. Vigan is only a few hours away taking the bus, van or other common transportation.

Horse Riding in Vigan City is very famous - the Spanish heritage can be found everywhere

Enjoy a ride in the city of Vigan, where Spanish influence can be found everywhere

If you want to enjoy a wonderful white beach in Luzon, then you should make the trip to Pagudpud in the very north of Luzon. Beaches like that one are quite rare in other parts of that island, and it is definitely worth the long journey. There are some very good resorts in Pagudpud which offer a great variety of international food; diving is not that spectacular, but swimming in front of the fine sand is awesome – the seawater is a few meters deep right after jumping into it.

Beaches in Luzon are not very often as white and fine as in Pagudpud. Check out the hotels and resort along the beach

One of the first surfing spots in the Philippines can be found along the west coast near San Fernando: there are some nice beach breaks in San Juan, where surfing can be learned best – unlike “Cloud 9″ in Siargao / Mindanao”, where the pros have their yearly international contest. There are many different resorts and hotels available in San Juan, good for poor surfers and as well for wealthier visitors who want to breathe colonial spirit in old Spanish styled houses (find out more about hotels in Luzon).

You can surf in San Fernando, on the west coast of Luzon. Siargao might be better for pros, but beginners might start here

Metro Manila is not as breathtaking as many people think – or at least not in a positive way: the smog caused by heavy traffic might really take your breath away. But the famous “Intramuros” are worth a short stay in the capital of the Philippines. Sunset at Manila Bay can be pretty awesome, but without that many beggars along the boulevard it might be much more romantic…Luzon offers a lot to travellers and visitors – subscribe to our feed to get even more information about the Philippines and the wonderful 7107 islands.