Luzon Philippines. Luzon Island: geographical location, climate

On the island of Luzon, at the place where the Pasig River flows into Manila Bay, is the capital of the Philippines - Manila. Manila is part of the metropolitan agglomeration of 17 cities (the so-called Greater Manila), the largest of which is Quezon City. The population of Greater Manila is over 12 million people.

Manila is a bustling city full of life. There are many people on the streets. Transport is literally in Brownian motion. Everyone rides the way they want. Nobody follows the rules. There are very few traffic lights. Traffic jams.

A special type of transport immediately attracts attention, which, except in the Philippines, you will not find anywhere else - “jeepneys”. These colorfully painted American jeeps from the Second World War, adapted to carry passengers, make a stunning impression on anyone who sees them for the first time.

Another popular form of transport is the tricycle. What distinguishes it from a jeepney is that it is built on the basis of a motorcycle.

One of the most favorite entertainments of Filipinos both in the capital and in the provinces is cockfights, they take place in the so-called sabungans (a kind of stadium with a raised roof).

The capital's business center - the Makat district - is skyscrapers, five-star hotels, banks, surrounded by gardens and fountains.

Ermita Manila area - tourist centre where most of the hotels are located. There are many cafes, restaurants, nightclubs for every taste. Prices in restaurants and cafes pleasantly surprise our compatriots with their moderation.

The historical center of Manila is Intramuros, which means “within the walls” in Russian. It is located on south coast r. Pasig. Intramuros was built at the end of the 16th century. Here settled immigrants from Spain. The stone Spanish courtyards are cool and shaded. The narrow stairs are crowded with potted plants. Now in this area there are art galleries, museums, restaurants, there is also an aquarium.

Here is the Manila Cathedral. This is a Catholic church. It is built in the Romanesque style of Filipino adobe bricks.

Opposite it is Fort Santiago. This is the oldest fortification. north side the fort overlooks the Pasig River, densely overgrown with water lilies in this place.

Another famous place- Church of St. Augustine. It was built at the end of the 16th century and is the oldest church in the Philippines.

Intramuros is separated from the Ermita area by Rizal Park, one of the largest in South-East Asia. Its area is 60 hectares. There is an orchid pavilion, a butterfly park, a planetarium, a monument to heroes, National Museum Philippines.

Another metropolitan attraction is the Malakanyan Palace. It is currently a government residence. Located on the banks of the river Pasig. The Presidential Museum of the Philippines is located in the palace building.

Pagsanyan Falls are located 80 km south of Manila. A trip here, according to the reviews of everyone who has been here, produces unforgettable impression. Canoeists on the picturesque Pagsanyan River take travelers through the jungle and canyons to the waterfalls. The most daring thrill-seekers can swim on a raft made of bamboo (raft) directly to the place where the water falls from the rocks.

Villa Escudeiro - ethnographic museum under open sky. The villa occupies 800 hectares. The atmosphere of a coconut plantation of the 18th-19th centuries is completely recreated here. Tourists move around the territory in a team drawn by buffaloes; along the way they observe the life of local peasants; there is an opportunity to go rafting. At the waterfall, travelers are served lunch from national dishes.

Taal Volcano - located in the southern part of Luzon, 60 km from Manila.

This is one of the smallest active volcanoes. It stands in the middle of Taal Lake. The lake has a diameter of 25-30 km. By boat you can get to the foot of the volcano and, having climbed to the observation deck, you can see that there is another lake on its top, in the middle of which there is another volcano. From here you have fantastic views. Nature impresses with its power and pristine beauty.

To the northwest of Manila is Subic Bay, which is an interesting diving site. Once an American naval base was located here, now it is developing resort center with expensive hotels, a yacht club, golf courses.

One of the main attractions of Luzon is man-made terraces carved into the mountains at an altitude of about 1500m. Their total length is 22.4 thousand km. km. It is believed that they are the same age Egyptian pyramids. Residents of the nearby village of Banaue grow rice on them.

In the northern part of Luzon, the city of Baguio is interesting. It is located at an altitude of 1500 m in wet pine forests. This resort place. The climate here is mild: the air temperature does not exceed 26°C. Filipinos like to relax in Baguio. This place is known all over the world for its magnificent golf club, as well as for the fact that the famous Filipino healers settled in its vicinity (from the English heal - health). They are called "surgeons without a scalpel". According to eyewitnesses, the healer in a state of trance makes an incision on the human body with the touch of his fingers and, penetrating inside, performs the necessary surgical operation, after which there are no injuries, such as scars or incisions. At the same time, a person does not feel anything, except for a slight tingling. No scientific explanation for this phenomenon has yet been found.

Luzon is the most large island om of the Philippine archipelago. The South China Sea washes it in the west, the Philippine Sea in the east, and the Luzon Strait separates the island from Taiwan and the Ryukyu archipelago. From an economic and political point of view, Luzon is the most important for the Philippines, the capital of the state, Manila, is also located here.

How to get there

Due to the fact that the capital of the state of Manila with its international airport is located on the island of Luzon, getting to the island is relatively simple. Flights from Russia are carried out with connections in major European or Asian cities, such as Seoul or Amsterdam.

Search for flights to Manila (nearest airport to Luzon)

Weather in Luzon

The climate on the island is maritime and subequatorial, monsoonal. The average temperature at any time of the year is about 27 degrees, high humidity also lasts all year round. In summer, in June-August, the season of devastating typhoons begins. It usually lasts until October. So best time to visit the island is the period from October to May.

The beaches of Luzon

The Philippines are famous for their white, very fine sand beaches. In combination with the amazing azure color of the sea and palm trees growing near the water, these beaches are a delightful picture. Almost all of them have developed infrastructure, the elements of which are arranged in such a way as not to violate the ideal beauty created by nature.

Numerous dive sites will give everyone the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of not only the beaches, but also the coastal underwater world. In the northern part of the island, where it often blows strong winds and there are waves, windsurfing is common.

Popular hotels in Luzon

Treatment in Luzon

Luzon has the largest lake in the Philippines, Laguna de Bai, which contains many hot sulfurous springs, thanks to which the water in the lake is healing. Many resorts are concentrated on the shore of the lake: Cuyab, Los Banos, Pansol. The hotels of these resorts offer various programs aimed at both healing and cosmetic effect. Many picturesque bays with beaches make it possible to choose a new entourage of relaxation every day.

About an hour's drive from Manila is the unique nature reserve Hidden Valley. For many centuries, lava solidified here in intricate heaps, in the recesses between them accumulated mineral water flowing down from the mountains. The high-class hotel of the same name has at its disposal eight natural pools, the water of which helps to cure female and male diseases, and also helps with arthritis, arthrosis, rhinitis and psoriasis.

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Capital of the Philippines

The magical city of Manila is located in the northwestern part of the island and gives it a certain metropolitan aura. The city is a metropolis, consisting of as many as seventeen districts. During the Second World War, Manila was badly damaged, entire blocks of exquisite mansions, beautiful churches, and monuments were killed under bombs. Now among the main attractions of the capital - Intramuros, the central, historical part of the city, built once by the Spanish conquerors. Many museums in the city, a bamboo organ that you can listen to in the church of San José, historical park Rizal, beautiful views of the bay, Chinatown, where you can buy all kinds of jewelry made of pearls with gold, do not remain out of sight of tourists.

Baguio

The mountain resort of Baguio is famous for its crystal clear air and mild climate. It is located in the province of Benguet, 250 km from Manila. Baguio is considered the "summer capital" of the country and attracts many tourists. The resort is located at an altitude of 1525 m above sea level. picturesque rocks, and very close to it is Lingayen Bay, or, as it is also called, the "Bay of 100 Islands", although there are more than four hundred islands in it. Framing the bay are sumptuous sandy beaches and coastal coral reefs.

Natural attractions of the island

Of the natural attractions, tourists are usually interested in the Quezon National Park, which is located 70 km from Manila, in the area of ​​​​the picturesque Tagaytay mountain range. Here you can also see the world's smallest active volcano Taal, in the crater lake of which there is an island, on which there is a lake, in the center of which there is an island, on which, in turn, there is not even a very small lake, but a lake. All this together is a picturesque spectacle. In the same region, you can see the caves of Sagada.

From a height of 100 meters, the streams of the Magdalio waterfalls rush down, while making a noise so strong that a person does not hear himself. Fans of extreme tourism are invited to get to the waterfalls by canoe, overcoming the river rapids.

There are about twenty active volcanoes on the island. Banahoa is a place of pilgrimage and a holy mountain for 17 religious sects, Taal is the smallest volcano in the world, Mayon is considered the most beautiful active volcano.

But the most remarkable attraction of the island are tiny funny monkeys - lemurs, or, in other words, tarsiers. Nowhere in the world can these animals be found in natural conditions.

Diving

The many dive sites dotted along the shores of Luzon attract divers of all styles. For beginners, there is an opportunity to learn the basics of mastery under the guidance of experienced certified instructors, and aces can see not only the rich underwater world of this region during diving, but also, if they are lucky, inspect a once sunken ship. Diving in Subic Bay (yes, exactly where the American military base was) will forever leave in memory luxurious coral gardens, and in Donsol you can observe the habits of whale sharks. It is wonderful to combine diving with a beach holiday in the province of La Union. See page for details

Luzon is the largest island in the Philippine archipelago and the 17th largest in the world. Area - 109,964.9 km². Population - 52,990,000 inhabitants (2015). The two main cities of the Philippines are located in the southern part of the island: Manila, the capital of the country, and Quezon, the most populous city in the Philippines. The name Luzon is also called a group of islands, one of the three largest in the Philippines. On old maps, you can find the name Lusonia, referring to the island of Luzon, as well as New Castile. One common name was applied to the inhabitants of the island - the Lusons. In the west, the island of Luzon is washed by South China Sea, in the east - the Philippine Sea. In the north, it is separated by the Luzon Strait from the island of Taiwan and the Ryukyu Islands. The Luzon Strait is also divided into two branches - the Babuyan Channel and the Balintang Channel.

Luzon is a mountainous island. The relief is mid-mountain, heights up to 2934 m (Mount Pulog). The island has both extinct (Arayat) and active volcanoes (Mayon and others). The Pinatubo volcano is also known, which last erupted in 1991. Large mountain system, Central Cordillera, runs along the northwestern part of the island. To the south of it are the low mountains of Sambales, and to the east is the valley of the Cagayan River, which separates another mountain range, the Sierra Madre, from the Cordillera. Cagayan - largest river Philippines. Between the Sierra Madre and Zambales lies the Central Luzon Plain, which occupies 11,000 km². It is the main area for rice production. Mount Arayat rises in the middle of the plain.

Population

The peoples of Luzon belong to different ethnolinguistic groups. The main ethnic groups are Aeta, Bikol, Ibanag, Igorot, Ilok, Pampangan, Pangasinan, Tagal. Each ethnic group lives in a certain area. The Ilok dominate the provinces of Ilocos North and Ilocos South, and the Cagayan Valley. Pampangans and Pangasinans - in the provinces of Pampanga, Pangasinan, Tarlac and in Central Luzon, Tagals - in the vicinity of Manila and in the Calabarzon region. Igorots - the common name for the peoples of the Central Cordillera, the highlanders, although these are several different peoples. Ibanagi - indigenous people Cagayan, and Bikol (Bikolano) - the Bikol Peninsula. Muslims and Chinese are mostly found in the cities, as are immigrants from Europe, the United States, Japanese, Koreans, mestizos and others. Each of the nationalities has its own language, but Tagalog is considered the state language. English is in full swing. But back in 1899, during the period of the anti-colonial revolution, Spanish was the official language, and documents were drawn up in it. Religiously, the picture is as diverse as linguistically. The majority of believers are Catholics, a little less are Protestants. Traditional folk cults are preserved. In later times, purely Filipino Christian directions appeared - the Independent Church of the Philippines, the Church of Christ (in Tagalog Iglesia ni Cristo).

Luzon Island has many convenient bays and bays, among which the largest are Lingayen Bay and Manila Bay. The shores of the western and southern parts are indented by bays. Among the numerous mountain rivers, two stand out in size - Agno and Pampanga. The coast and river valleys are densely populated.
In the southern part of the island southeast of Manila Bay, Laguna de Baie is the largest lake in the country and also the largest inland lake in Southeast Asia. Its area is 949 km², and the only river flowing from it is the Pasig, which flows west and flows into Manila Bay. The Pasig River, despite its small size, played a significant role in the history of the Philippines, as it passes through the central part of Manila. To the southwest of Lake Laguna de Baie is Lake Taal. This is the ruined crater of an old volcano filled with water. In the middle of the lake there is a small island, which is also a crater filled with water.
Mindoro Island is located southeast of Luzon. The two islands are separated by the Verde Strait, which connects the South China Sea and Tayabas Bay. To the south of this bay is about. Marinduque. The southern part of Luzon is the Bicol Peninsula, an elongated and narrow piece of land. It is separated from the main part of Luzon by the isthmus of Tayabas. rugged coastline here it has numerous bays and bays, convenient for navigation. In Lamon Bay, about. Alabat and the Polillo group of islands, part of the province of Quezon. In addition to Bicol, two smaller peninsulas stand out - Karamoan and Bondok. And in the southernmost part of Bikol is adjacent to about. Samar. The San Bernardino Strait separates them. There are quite a few volcanoes on the Bicol Peninsula. The most significant volcano is Vayon in the province of Albay, 2460 m. Other large peaks are the mountains of Isarog and Iriga in South Kamarines, and Mount Bulusan in Sorsogon.

Climate

The climate is subequatorial monsoon, typhoons are frequent. Vegetation is represented by evergreen and deciduous tropical forests, in river valleys there are areas of savannah vegetation.

History of Luzon

In the northeast of the island of Luzon, in the Callao Cave (en: Callao Cave), a third metatarsal bone, presumably of the Homo sapiens species, was found. The remains, designated Callao Man (en: Callao Man), date back to 66.7 ± 1 thousand years ago. In ancient times, according to most scholars, the Philippines and Luzon in particular were connected to Asia by a land bridge, through which the first settlers entered the territory that later became a group of islands. These were Aeta, anthropologically - Negritos, related to Australoids. It is believed that this fact was about 15,000 years ago.
The Austronesians, another ethnic group, of the Mongoloid type, reached the islands about 2500 years ago, as a result of a large wave of Austronesian migrations. But during this period there was no longer a land bridge with Asia, so they arrived in the Philippines by sea. These peoples possessed the skills of navigation. These were mainly Malays, but also migrants from about. Taiwan and from other regions of Southeast Asia.
The first contact with Spain took place in the 16th century. The Spanish conquistadors were led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, Juan de Salcedo and Martin de Goiti. They arrived on the shores of Luzon in 1570-1571. Luzon and its neighboring lands were declared possession of the Spanish crown, and were under the Spanish yoke for more than 300 years. The island was the center of the Philippine national liberation revolution at the end of the 19th century. After that, Spanish domination was replaced by American.
On December 8, 1941, Japanese aircraft attacked American military bases on Luzon, and subsequently occupied the island. The Japanese placed their bases at several points, of which the coast of Lingayen Bay was the most important. Both the Filipinos and the Americans fought the Japanese occupiers. Their combined troops retreated initially from their positions to the Bataan Peninsula, from where they hoped to launch an offensive. There was a battle that lasted for several months. As a result, the American and Philippine forces, left without supplies, surrendered to the Japanese army. After leaving Luzon, American troops were based for some time at Leyte and Mindoro, but between 1941 and 1943 they began to gradually move towards Manila, which was also occupied by the enemy. The Battle of Manila took place in 1943. After that, the Filipino and American troops returned several more positions. The official date of the final victory is July 5, 1945. By this time, Luzon and the rest of the Philippines had been completely liberated.

The beaches of Luzon

The main feature of the beaches on the island is the unusually fine white sand. Greenery of palm trees growing near the water, an unusual shade of the azure sea and dazzling white sandy beaches create amazing colors. The infrastructure is quite developed, but it is so imperceptibly woven into the overall picture of the island that it does not violate the extraordinary natural harmony and beauty.
But not only the beaches are a source of delight, dive sites along the coast will provide the opportunity to enjoy the contemplation of the rich coastal underwater world. In the northern part of Luzon, there are strong winds that raise waves on the sea surface, here you can enjoy windsurfing. In this part of the island this view active rest quite common.



Attractions Luzon

70 km from the capital is Quezon National Park - the main natural attraction of the island. It contains the world's smallest active volcano Taal, the uniqueness and picturesqueness of which lies in the fact that in its crater lake there is an island, and in it there is a lake, and in this lake there is another island and another small lake. All this looks amazingly beautiful!
Luzon is the Sagada caves, the Magdaleo waterfalls, which extreme lovers can reach by canoe, overcoming the rapids. And it’s also about 20 active volcanoes, including Banahoa, which is considered sacred mountain and a place of pilgrimage for 17 sects of different religious beliefs.
However, lemurs - funny miniature monkeys, which are also called tarsiers, are the funniest and most beautiful attraction of this picturesque island. After all, nowhere else in the world you will find these rare animals in nature!

Information

  • Washing waters: South China Sea, Philippine Sea
  • A country: Philippines
  • Square: 109964.9 km²
  • highest point: 2922 m
  • Population (2015): 52 990 000 people

The capital and largest city of the country is located on the southwestern coast of Luzon, on the shores of the bay of the same name.

There are also many interesting places in the vicinity of the capital - the lighthouse on Cape Boheador (1892, the highest in the country), textile workshops in Paoai (widely known for their fabrics in national style), the famous "Bamboo Organ" in the Las Picas area, the factory for the production of the famous "jeepneys" in Sarao, the "lonely mountain" Arayat (1026 m), the city of Pagsanyan (63 km from Manila), near which are located famous waterfall Macdapio and the picturesque rapids (it was here that F. Coppola filmed his film "Apocalypse Now"), etc.

In the throat of Manila Bay lies sadly famous island Corregidor, for the possession of which there were fierce battles during the Second World War. Now the ruins of the fortress of those times, the Malinta tunnel network (the location of the temporary headquarters of General MacArthur), as well as the Japanese cemetery, a small museum and the Memorial to the Fallen are of interest here. The province of Laguna (45 km southeast of the capital) is very popular, where many hot sulfur springs and resorts based on them are concentrated - Cuyab, Los Banos (the unique Rice Research Institute is also located here), Pansol, etc.

Northwest of Manila is a bay Subic Bay- a former American naval base and one of the best areas for diving in the country. At the top of the bay is the city of Olongapo, which is increasingly becoming major resort with golf courses, yacht clubs, sports centers and luxury hotels. Also, the former American air base Clark (70 km north of Manila) has been turned into a large resort area, on the territory of which a special economic zone (SEZ) has now been opened with many tax benefits for companies operating here. Also, one of the best skydiving centers in Asia, the Tropical Asian Center, has been built here, as well as many golf courses and routes for outdoor activities.

To the north is the mountainous region of Zambale, in which the Sagada caves (the place of traditional burial places of the Ifuago headhunters tribe), picturesque rice terraces around Banaue with a total length of about 22.4 thousand km are curious (it is believed that they were carved into the rocks of the local mountains more than 3 thousand years ago), the most beautiful mountain serpentine Zigzag Road, the Sino-Philippine "Friendship Pagoda" and the Ma-Cho Temple in San Fernando (La Union), the resorts of Capones Island and Camera, the Pinatubo volcano area, the fishing village of Pandakit , a salt mining area in the Dasol Bay area, as well as tens of kilometers luxurious beaches in the La Union area, Tambobong, Pandakit, Iba, Amungan and on the island of Erman Major.

mountain resort Baguio located 250 km north of Manila, in the province of Benguet. This is the "summer capital" of the country, lying at an altitude of about 1525 m above sea level, and is famous for its mild climate and clean air. The sights of the city are the summer residence of the government of the country - the Mansion Mansion, Bell Church ("Temple of the Bell"), picturesque crystalline massifs of the surrounding rocks and ancient burials in the surrounding mountains. Lingayen Bay with its "hundred islands" (actually there are about 400 of them), framed by white sandy shores and long coral reefs, lies very close by.

70 km south of Manila lies a picturesque mountain range Tagaytay (altitude 600 m), within which are located national park Quezon and the unique Taal volcano (the smallest active volcano on the planet), in the crater lake of which there is an island, which, in turn, also has a small lake. Also in the southeastern part of Luzon are the "city of seven lakes" San Pablo, the Banahao volcano (2188 m, the sacred mountain of as many as seventeen religious sects, place of worship, where numerous pilgrimages are arranged) and the magnificent Saint-Martin-de-Tours Basilica (1856, considered a national treasure) in Taal.

Nearby, at the foot of the Makiling volcano, lies the famous "Lost Valley" Hidden Valley with the Alaminos crater, numerous caverns with hot mineral water, waterfalls, the grotto of Lourdes (it is believed that the water flowing from it has healing power), hundreds thermal springs and luxurious vegetation. In the province of Albay, the Mayon volcano rises (2462 m), considered one of the most perfect volcanic cones in the world.

East is a delicate matter. Therefore, before going on vacation to Luzon, Philippines, the traveler should be well prepared for the trip: find out local prices, attractions, as well as ways of interesting leisure and active recreation. The island of Luzon is unique place, where the developed tourist infrastructure is adjacent to the pristine natural beauties. It seems that on this island there are still places where no human foot has set foot. Holidays on the island of Luzon are protected nature and bright, rich programs for recreation and shopping. What exactly to choose, each traveler decides for himself.

Luzon Island is where main city country - Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Manila is home to a large international Airport. Flights from Manila fly daily from Domodedovo airport, the flight schedule can be found on the official website of the airport. As a rule, these are not direct flights, but flights with transfers in the capitals of Europe and Asia.

Locals and travelers often refer to Luzon as the "Land of a Hundred Islands" because under geographical name"Luzon" is traditionally understood to mean not only the island where Manila is located, but also the whole archipelago of nearby islands.

Weather and climate on the island: what you need to know

Luzon is an island, so the climate there is very specific, it is a typical maritime climate. The air temperature is quite high all year round, twenty-seven - thirty degrees. But there is a rather significant minus - very high humidity. Travelers unaccustomed to this climate may feel uncomfortable at first.

Before leaving for Luzon, it is necessary to clarify when the next tourist season will begin on the island, because from July to October typhoons are approaching the island, sweeping away everything in their path. At this time, for security reasons, it is best to refrain from visiting Manila and other settlements located in its vicinity. It is best to go to the island in late autumn, winter or early spring.

Where to stay

There are many hotels and inns on the island of Luzon. The cost depends on the services provided and the living conditions. The traveler can easily choose where it is better for him to live: in an economy class hotel or in a five-star hotel.

It must be borne in mind that the tourist season in Luzon does not begin in summer, but in autumn (due to the climate and frequent summer typhoons). In the period from October to March, it is advisable to book a hotel room well in advance of the trip, since the most popular hotels at this time are overcrowded with vacationers. Major hotels on the island of Luzon - these are not just places for tourists to stay, but mega-centers, in which there are:

  • Conference rooms with lighting and sound equipment for public events;
  • Beauty salons, spas and wellness centers;
  • Sports halls and fitness centers;
  • Children's playgrounds where animation programs for young travelers.

The most popular hotels in Luzon Island are Belmost Hotel Manila, Golden Phoenix Hotel, City Garden Grand Hotel. These are premium hotels. Also on the island there are hotels of the world's largest hotel chain Novotel. So, for example, one of the best hotels in Southeast Asia of this hotel chain is located in the center of Manila. For travelers with a more modest level of income, there are many economy class hotels. However, in the midst of tourist season places in cheaper hotels and hotels are also recommended to be booked in advance.

Active holidays on the island of Luzon

Luzon is famous for its natural beauty. They will certainly be appreciated by outdoor enthusiasts. Those who love wildlife in its original form should definitely visit:

  • The beaches of the island where you can go diving, surfing and more water sports sports;
  • Hidden Valley Reserve, where there are picturesque waterfalls and you can meet rare animals - lemurs. This reserve is not accidentally called the "Hidden Valley", because it is located in a calm, secluded place, hidden from prying eyes. Here the unity of nature and man is most fully felt. This is one of the few places on earth where these animals can be found in large numbers. Lemur is one of the rarest animals on earth. IN wild nature they live mainly in Madagascar. Outwardly, lemurs resemble small monkeys. These cute animals have huge eyes, a fluffy tail and tenacious paws that allow you to easily climb any tree;
  • famous volcanoes. Some of them are on the island of Mindanao. You can get to the island of Mindanao from Luzon using water transport. The islands of Luzon and Mindanao are located in a seismically active zone, and thrill-seekers will certainly enjoy visiting active and extinct volcanoes. Most famous volcanoes Luzon - Taal Volcano (Taal), Pinatubo Volcano (Pinatubo), Mayon Volcano;
  • Sagada cave. Once upon a time there was an ocean in the place of the cave. Then the ocean became shallow due to global climate change, and the cave began to be used as a place for ritual burials, so the atmosphere in this place is very specific. You can get into the cave only as part of an organized tour. Despite the fact that the cave is located at a great depth, there is a cellular connection. Guides offer travelers special SIM cards for mobile phones. However, most tourists prefer to do without them in order to enjoy the amazing atmosphere of isolation from the world.

Where to go on the island

Luzon - beautiful place for holidays with family and children. Here the traveler does not have to think long about what to do. IN different areas The city has unique historical sights.

How to move around the city?

It is best to rent a car, but you can also walk around. The main thing is to wear comfortable shoes so as not to get tired from walking. Luzon Island is famous for its monuments of church architecture. Among them are the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and the Church of St. Augustine. These are active temples, and those who wish can visit them for services.

The time of festive services can be clarified with representatives of the temple administration. basilica Immaculate Conception is official cathedral Luzon, this temple is actively visited by both local believers and tourists. Those who are interested in the history of the island of Luzon, the life and art of local peoples, should definitely visit the National Museum of the Philippines.

The ethnographic exposition of this museum in a visual and accessible form tells about the history of the Philippines, as well as about the life of local peoples. The museum exhibits costumes, household items, works of art and handicrafts of the indigenous people of the Philippines. In the museum you can order a group or private tour in English.

After seeing all the sights of Luzon, you can book an excursion to the city of Baguio (locally called Baguio), which is located nearby. This city is rightly called the "Summer Capital of the Philippines". Baguio also has numerous monuments of religious architecture and the famous Burnham Park for sports and outdoor enthusiasts. You can also visit the city of Pasig, this is one of largest cities countries with developed infrastructure.

Treatment

Luzon is one of the most popular hydrotherapy centers in Southeast Asia. On the territory of Luzon and nearby islands there are hydrothermal springs with healing waters. Many hotels offer tourists wide range wellness procedures, depending on the existing disease. Spa treatments are also available to those who wish. The hotels have wellness centers and beauty salons. Before you go to the island for treatment with healing waters, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

On the island of Luzon, the following types of acute and chronic diseases are successfully treated with the help of hydrotherapy:

  • skin diseases;
  • cardiovascular diseases;
  • diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
  • chronic stress, overwork, chronic fatigue syndrome.

Water procedures will also be useful for healthy travelers, as hydrotherapy strengthens the immune system and increases the body's resistance. Hydrotherapy centers in Luzon and on the nearby islands are very popular with both tourists and residents of the Philippines.

Those interested in original therapies can visit local alternative medicine centers. In these centers you can see how healers work - Filipino healers. Healers can perform the most complex operation without the use of medical instruments, using only their hand strength. However, such methods of treatment are not suitable for everyone, so you should not trust your body to a healer without consulting a doctor.

What to try

In the Philippines, like many other countries in Southeast Asia, food is taken very seriously. You can try national dishes in inexpensive cafes and restaurants located on the territory of hotels and in historical center islands. At the same time, it should be borne in mind that in the center the cost of service in cafes and restaurants is significantly higher than in the periphery. The national cuisine of the Philippines is a real hodgepodge of traditional dishes Spain, China and Malaysia. Here, the traveler does not have to think for a long time what to try: all the dishes look bright and appetizing.

There are few vegetarians in the Philippines, and the most popular foods in the diet of local residents are pork, sea fish and seafood dishes. Travelers who are fasting or prefer vegetarian food are best to eat on the territory of hotels, in cafes and restaurants designed for tourists, as there is a large selection of dishes for every taste. And for those who want to try all the best dishes local cuisine, it is best to eat in cafes and restaurants designed for local residents. However, you need to be prepared for the fact that the food may have an unusual taste due to local spices and be quite spicy.

natural attractions

Among natural beauties Luzon Islands can be noted stunning protected areas, bewitching with their pristine, untouched by man, nature. You can get to these places using water transport, hotel administrators can tell you about organized excursions. Here's what you should see on the island of Luzon for lovers of water walks and secluded beaches:

  • Visayas (locally called Visayas), known for its wonderful beaches;
  • Alabat Island;
  • Lake Laguna de Bay (locally called Laguna de Bay);
  • Pangsanghan waterfall;
  • Lingayen Bay;
  • Manila Bay.
  • Subic Bay (Bay) known as the former military base of the Americans. On the territory of the bay you can meet animals, birds and fish of the rarest breeds.

Philippine nature is volcanoes and waterfalls, as well as secluded beaches with crystal clean water and white sand. On the territory adjacent to the largest beaches of Luzon, there are prestigious resort hotels designed for beach lovers. The hotels provide a wide range of services, including the rental of diving equipment and other water sports.

What is near Luzon, and where you can go during your holidays

The name "Luzon" refers not only to one island, but to a whole group of islands that are next to each other. Access to nearby islands water transport. Luzon hotels have a variety of tour guides, including organized excursions to nearby cities. During the excursions it will be possible not only to do unique photos, but also to learn about the history of Luzon, about its sister cities, about the past and present of this piece of paradise. In the vicinity of the island of Luzon, you can visit such interesting places, How:

  • Corregidor Island (locally called Corregidor) is a unique place in the vicinity of Luzon, where the museum of military equipment is located. old military equipment will certainly interest all the representatives of the stronger sex, as well as children. During the Second World War there was a military base of the United States of America. Also on the island there are healing springs and hydrotherapy centers;
  • Small town of San Jose. Every spring, San Jose hosts vibrant National holidays as part of the Binirayan festival. The festival is held in honor of the first arrival of the Malays on the island. This memorable event took place in the thirteenth century, and it is still celebrated every year with a large-scale celebration. Also in San Jose every year they celebrate the feast day of St. Joseph, who, according to legend, founded this city;
  • Province of Benguet. In 2004 locals entered the Guinness Book of Records when they made the world's largest strawberry pie. In the province of Benguet, a colorful flower festival with a costumed procession is held annually. During the festival, solemn costumed processions are held, local and visiting artists perform, a competition for the best flower costume is held, flower fairs work;
  • Rizal Park in Manila. The park is named after the local nineteenth century revolutionary poet and political figure, José Rizal. Rizal is respected by the locals for fighting for Philippine independence. The monument to the poet stands in the center of the park and immediately attracts the attention of strollers. There are other interesting monuments. Also in the park is a Japanese-style garden commemorating the friendship between the Philippines and Japan. In the park you can relax, have a picnic, listen to performances of local musicians and singers. Calm environment conducive to friendly communication. Animators offer vacationers a variety of entertainment programs.

What to bring

A traveler who goes to the island of Luzon must certainly take with him:

  • Costume, sport equipment and accessories for beach holidays, diving and other water sports;
  • Comfortable shoes for visiting the Sagada Cave;
  • Everything you need for wellness procedures and bathing in healing springs;
  • Camera and video camera;
  • Those who want to stay in touch all the time can take a laptop and a cell phone with them, as the cellular connection of international operators works well in the Philippines, and most hotels have free wi-fi internet.

What to bring to family and friends from Luzon

Luzon is quite a suitable place for shopping. There are both large shopping malls European type, and small shops of private traders, as well as the famous Asian markets. In the markets, you can buy local agricultural products (fresh vegetables and fruits), meat, fish and seafood, as well as try traditional street food in mobile tents. As a rule, it is pork with rice and seafood, as well as noodles. Baking is also very popular. However, one should not get involved in street food because of the large number of spices and flavor combinations that are unusual for Europeans.

It is best to send shopping for relatives to the capital of the Philippines, Manila. You can bring as a gift to relatives and friends such useful, tasty and beautiful gifts as:

  • Local fruits, as well as dried fruits and a variety of fruit sweets made according to the recipe of local residents;
  • Seashell paintings. Filipino artists make pictures of them in a variety of formats and genres, from abstraction to genre scenes from the life of local peasants;
  • Strong alcoholic drinks. Representatives of the stronger sex will certainly appreciate a beautifully packaged bottle of the famous Philippine rum - a favorite drink of brave captains and fearless sea pirate pirates;
  • Products made by local craftsmen from fabric and straw: bags, decorative panels, clothes and hats;
  • Pearl jewelry. It is best to choose pearl products after consulting a guide or tour guide, as recently in jewelry stores aimed at foreigners, tourists often sell fake pearls for a lot of money. It is better not to be tempted by products made of black pearls, because it is this type of pearl that the locals most often fake.

Ecological problems

Travelers to Luzon should keep in mind that Manila is the largest industrial centre, and, in this regard, the island of Luzon is a rather polluted place. On the territory of the island, especially on the outskirts of Manila, there are illegal industrial waste dumps. Factories and factories in Manila pollute the air with exhaust gases, and the Pasig River bears the "honorary" title of one of the most polluted rivers in the world.

On the territory of the island of Luzon, there are several rivers that are considered biologically dead due to the high level of pollution. In this regard, travelers are not recommended to settle in large industrial areas. It is better to choose a hotel or inn on the territory belonging to a large beach or nature reserve. Currently, the Manila authorities are actively working to solve environmental problems, however, the problems remain relevant.

Holidays on the island of Luzon will certainly give the traveler wonderful moments, which then can be remembered all year long, looking through photos and videos. In order for the trip to be really successful and memorable for a long time, you need to properly prepare for the trip and find out about it. paradise as much as possible. Then rest will only be a joy, and small difficulties will be easily resolved.

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