Iloilo City is also known as the City of Love. I didn’t know that until few days before our trip when I was doing my research, which explains why people say that Ilonggos never get angry or mad, and that is why we would often ask the locals if that is true. It’s not. It’s kind of a relief when they admit otherwise, because it’s in nature to feel upset sometimes.
Islas de Gigantes
I’m pretty sure that Islas de Gigantes (Islands of Giants) is in every itinerary of travelers bound for Iloilo City. Who would want to miss the opportunity of seeing these islands with pristine white sand beaches, beautiful rock formations, and bounteous types of fresh seafood?
Guimaras Island
Before this trip materialized, I would often mention ‘Guimaras’ whenever people ask what will be our first destination as soon as we land in Iloilo International Airport. And no, Guimaras is not part of Iloilo but it’s 15 minutes boat away from Ortiz Wharf. Guimaras is popularly known for its Mango as it is the producer of the ‘Sweetest Mango in the World.’
Tacloban City
Tacloban City seems to be an unbeknownst destination for travel enthusiasts, especially after it was devastated by Typhoon Yolanda back in 2013. But I think that’s more reason for travelers to visit, explore, and help the city recover back slowly into its original state by attracting more tourists. Plus, Tacloban City became more historic after the typhoon as you can witness the ships that were swept away to the city during the storm and were made as monuments.