Albay is easily known to travelers all over the globe because of the stunningly beautiful Mayon Volcano as well as a number of exciting activities.
Albay, best known as the home of the enchantingly beautiful Mayon Volcano, is a province rich in heritage sites as well as natural and man-made attractions.
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| View of Mayon Volcano from Legazpi Domestic Airport |
11 Top Things To Do In Albay with Kids [Tourist Spots, Food, + Itinerary]
Breathtaking Bicol
I have always dreamed of exploring Bicol. I am not sure what spurred it but perhaps it was my love for locomotives and railroads. When I was young, I heard that to go from Bicol to Metro Manila, one had to take a train. I thought that a long train ride with a view of the countryside would be such an adventure.
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| Albay Gulf and Mt. Mayon behind us |
As I grew up, I became drawn by Bicol's fertile volcanic soil, fascinating heritage and traditions, and uniquely fiery cuisine.
The Bicol Region is composed of six provinces: Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Catanduanes, and Masbate. With the diverse sites, taste, and experience that Bicol has to offer, it wouldn't come as a surprise that it is a dream destination for any savvy traveler or newbie explorers.
Among all the beautiful sights in Bicol, Mayon and the Cagsawa Ruins were at the top of our list. As such, we made a plan to explore Albay. I also wanted to see old churches, antique houses, and beaches if time will permit.
How to go to Albay
The fastest and most convenient way to go to Albay is via air travel. Sometimes, it's also the most cost-effective option especially with the abundance of seat sales.
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| Arrival at Legazpi Domestic Airport |
There are daily flights from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to the Legazpi Domestic Airport. We booked a Cebu Pacific flight and we were in Legazpi City in an hour or so.
The other option to get to Albay from Manila is via land travel. There are daily buses that ply the Albay-Metro Manila route (and vice-versa). If this is your transportation of choice, you may opt to go to the following bus terminals where there are scheduled trips from Metro Manila to Legazpi City:
Araneta Center Bus Station
- Legaspi St. Jude Transport (7:30 PM)
EDSA-Cubao
- Penafrancia Tours (6:00 AM, 7:30 AM, 8:30 AM, and 9:00 PM)
- Isarog Lines (7:00 PM, 8:00 PM, 8:30 PM, and 9:00 PM)
LRT-Buendia
- DLTB Co. (8:00 AM and 8:30 PM)
Pasay
- Legaspi St. Jude Transport (8:00 AM, 12:00 NN, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM)
Alabang
- Penafrancia Tours (8:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 7:00 PM, 8:15 PM, and 10:00 PM)
- DLTB Co. (9:15 AM, 6:30 PM, and 9:45 PM)
- Legaspi St. Jude Transport (7:00 PM)
- Isarog Lines (8:00 PM, 9:00 PM, 9:30 PM, and 10:00 PM)
*trip information from escapemanila.com
Price per bus line may vary albeit only slightly except sleeper bus types that cost almost double the regular fares. Sleeper buses are more comfortable as compared to regular buses and perhaps the second-best choice after air travel
How to get around Albay
It's easy to get around Albay and we recommend that you hire a van to take you around the most famous landmarks of Albay. When we exited the Legazpi Domestic Airport, we were greeted by a multitude of drivers barkers who were offering taxi, van, and tricycle services.
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| Outside Legazpi Domestic Airport |
We spoke to a van owner who was willing to take us around the most popular destinations in Albay for P2,500. Not bad, considering that it will be a whole day trip.
Before proceeding to our trip, we left our bags at Balay de la Rama, a well-known bed and breakfast in Legazpi City where we were initially checked in. Yes, "initially" because we transferred to another inn after a brief mix-up but more about that later on.
Exploring Albay's tourist spots
We did not really prepare any cohesive itinerary for our trip to Albay but we told our driver that we wanted to go to a spot with a good view of Mayon Volcano and also to visit the Cagsawa Ruins. The rest of our trip could be flexible or even spontaneous.
Fortunately, our driver, who has been taking tourists around Albay for several years already, told us to just sit back and relax and leave everything to him. He will ensure that we would have a worthwhile and memorable day exploring Albay's tourist spots. Of course, we were more than happy to comply save for some small requests along the way, which our driver was kind enough to accommodate.
Nevertheless, if it's also your first time in Albay, to give you an idea of what to expect, here is a list of the top things to see and do in the province:
1. Eat at Bigg's Diner
Location: Old Albay District, Legazpi City
After we have deposited our bags at Balay de la Rama, we asked the receptionist for a recommendation on where best to eat in Legazpi City. She gamely suggested Biggs Diner which is located in the city center and accessible via tricycle.
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| Bigg's Diner |
Our driver, who went to refuel his van while we were checking in at Balay de la Rama, still has not yet arrived, hence, we decided to just proceed via tricycle since Bigg's Diner was just a few meters away. We asked the receptionist at Balay de la Rama to tell the driver to just meet us at Bigg's Diner.
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| The interiors of Bigg's Diner |
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| An old typewriter |
I was not really expecting anything spectacular because I just wanted to have a good and comfortable meal. When we got to Biggs Diner though, I was surprised with how good-looking it was. Now, this restaurant is one fine gem.
You will immediately fall in love with its retro look, the typical image of an American diner you see in movies and travel shows. The walls are embellished with classic movie posters and antique items. Even the seats look classic!
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| Retro seats |
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| An old tractor |
You will immediately fall in love with its retro look, the typical image of an American diner you see in movies and travel shows. The walls are embellished with classic movie posters and antique items. Even the seats look classic!
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| Bacon and eggs for breakfast |
We immediately proceeded to order breakfast since it was already close to 9:00 AM. I got myself rice, bacon and eggs, and strong coffee, of course. Khris, meanwhile, ordered rice, sausages, and eggs.
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| Goto topped with chicharon |
We were famished so we ordered an extra bowl of goto. This goto deserves an honorable mention; it had generous slivers of ox tripe and it smelled of fragrant ginger. Most special about it was the big chunks of chicharon toppings. It was indeed warming and filling.
2. Go to Daraga Church
Location: Sta. Maria Street, Daraga, Albay
After our hearty breakfast at Bigg's Diner, our driver, who arrived a few minutes before we finished our meal, suggested that we go and see Daraga Church first.
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| Souvenir shot in front of Daraga Church |
We drove to Daraga town, which was just a few minutes away from Legazpi City. The centuries-old Daraga Church, also known as Nuestra Señora de la Porteria Parish Church and Our Lady of the Gate Parish Church, is perched atop a hill, so to get there, one has to climb a steep flight of stairs.
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| Façade of Daraga Church |
The architecture of this baroque church is stunning! The façade is painted white but it was peeling; even so, it only added to the appeal of Daraga Church.
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| The interiors of Daraga Church |
From the church square, one may get a breathtaking view of Mayon Volcano as well as the vast green landscape at the foot of the mountain.
Also read: Daraga Church: Albay's Historical Gem
3. Visit Cagsawa Ruins
Location: Daraga. Albay
From Daraga Church, we next went to Cagsawa Ruins. Aside from Mayon Volcano, the Cagsawa Ruins is one of the most iconic landmarks of Albay.
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| Cagsawa Ruins |
The Cagsawa Ruins is the belfry of an old Franciscan church that was destroyed by Mayon Volcano's strongest eruption during the early 1800s.
My memory of Mayon Volcano's photos in my elementary textbooks is always with Cagsawa Ruins. It's always like that; tall and imposing Mayon Volcano in the background and Cagsawa Ruins at its foot although in varying proportions throughout my elementary years. Notwithstanding, it left me yearning to see Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa Ruins in person someday.
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| Part of the Cagsawa Ruins is the old foundation of the church |
I grew excited when we were on the road to Cagsawa Ruins. As such, I imagined our trip to be somewhat dramatic like a hike through rugged terrain dotted with a volcanic rock until we arrive at a clearing where the Cagsawa Ruins will come into view with Mayon as the backdrop.
Well, it wasn't like that at all. As soon as we got to Cagsawa Park, the church tower is already there right in front of us. There was no surprise or moments of suspense.
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| The old walls of Cagsawa Ruins |
It was still beautiful though, the sort of mysterious appeal exuded by ancient landmarks and ruined structures. The quaintness of the surroundings added to the beauty of this famous tourist spot.
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| The old walls and floor of Cagsawa Ruins |
4. Try sili (chili) ice cream
By the way, while you are at Cagsawa Park, you might want to try sili (chili) ice cream sold in one of the food shops there. I did not get to try it but I heard that the spicy chili provided an interesting flavor (and kick) to the usual sweet and creamy ice cream.
5. Marvel at Mayon from Ligñon Hill Nature Park
Location: Legazpi City, Albay
The Ligñon Hill Nature Park, located near the Legazpi Domestic Airport, is home to the Mayon Volcano Observatory, a public park, and souvenir and food shops. When we arrived the place is already full of tourists having breakfast or scouring for souvenirs.
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| A panoramic shot of Mayon Volcano from Lignon Hill |
There is a viewing deck at Ligñon Hill where guests may use coin-operated telescopes to view Mayon Volcano. However, even without a telescope, Ligñon Hill already provided us a good vantage point of Mayon Volcano.
6. Trek to Vera Falls
Location: Malinao, Albay
Vera Falls is located at the Municipality of Malinao, about two hours away from Legazpi City. Vera Falls is open to the public and can be reached via a short trek through narrow paths.
There was no steep slope or any arduous climbing involved, thus, Vera Falls is perfect for those who have no patience in challenging or physically intensive treks. Still, be very careful since there are sharp rocks beside the pathways.
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| Vera Falls behind us |
There was no steep slope or any arduous climbing involved, thus, Vera Falls is perfect for those who have no patience in challenging or physically intensive treks. Still, be very careful since there are sharp rocks beside the pathways.
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| Enjoying the water of Vera Falls |
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| Relaxing in Vera Falls |
Vera Falls is a small waterfall but it is still a good-looking natural wonder. The water is clear and cold; it's perfect but we were not able to try it because we did not bring any swimming attire with us. There are cottages around the stream so guests may bring food with them and have a picnic while swimming.
7. Visit Tabaco Church
Location: Tabaco City, Albay
Tabaco City is home to the San Juan Bautista Church or Tabaco Church, a good-looking church made out of volcanic rocks, giving it that distinct dark color. It was completed in the late 1870s, around fifteen years after the construction of the church commenced.
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| Façade of Tabaco Church |
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| The interiors of Tabaco Church |
The Tabaco Church has been designated as a National Culture Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines.
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| The bell tower of Tabaco Church |
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| A statue at the square in front of Tabaco Church |
The church is likewise known for its bell tower featuring intricate designs. Tabaco Church is one of the few churches in the Philippines with a bell tower constructed separately from the main building.
8. Have a pilgrimage at Kawa-Kawa Hill and Natural Park
Location: Ligao City, Albay
From Tabaco City, we drove to Ligao City to visit Kawa-Kawa Hill and Natural Park. While on the way, keep your eyes on the beautiful terrain along the road. As the name suggests, Kawa-Kawa Hill and Natural Park feature hiking trails for tourists as well as a majestic view of the surrounding environs.
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| Last supper statue in Kawa-Kawa Hill |
Kawa-Kawa Hill's most distinguishing features, however, are the life-size statues of Jesus and the apostles depicting the fourteen stations of the cross. There is also a sculpture of the Last Supper at the foot of the hill, again featuring life-size statues made of concrete.
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| Enjoying ice cream in Kawa-Kawa Hill |
There were souvenir and food shops near the parking area. Since we were a bit sweaty from all the climbing and walking, we decided to have ice cream before proceeding to our next destination.
9. Taste Bicol's signature dishes
It was past lunchtime when we left Kawa-Kawa Hill. We still had one more place to go before we conclude our tour but we were already hungry. We asked our driver to recommend a restaurant offering authentic Bicolano dishes.
He said he knew of a place that served delicious Bicolano food. He took us to a roadside restaurant, not too big as it featured less than ten tables. It looked like a family-owned restaurant, which bode well for what was in store for us for lunch.
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| Plate of Laing, Pinangat, and Bicol Express |
We ordered Laing (dried taro leaves in coconut milk), Bicol Express (green chili and pork with coconut milk), Tilmok (steamed crab meat with coconut milk), Pinangat (meat with shredded taro leaves and chilies, wrapped in a taro leaf and steamed in coconut milk), and Kinunot na Pagi (stingray meat cooked in coconut milk). In about 20 minutes, our food arrived and the aromas of which told us that we made the right decision.
I took a spoonful of each dish and made some sort of a sampler plate because I wanted to taste each of the food we ordered. The flavors were explosive; they were much deeper, bolder, richer, and spicier than the ones that we get to taste in restaurants in Metro Manila. It was a lovely lunch, a whole experience in itself.
As I always say, if you do not have the luxury of time and money to explore a place and get acquainted with its culture, then have a taste of local flavors to get to know the place better.
10. Cool down with halo-halo at DJC Restaurant
Location: Pacific Mall, Legazpi City, Albay
Upon returning to Legazpi City, we asked our driver to drop us off at Pacific Mall, a local department store so that we can shop for toiletries.
Along the way to Legazpi City, we stopped by a small store selling pili nut products like caramel-coated and plain salted pili nuts. The owner showed us how a pili tree and fruit looked like as well as the nuts taken out of their shells and being readied for processing. Of course, we got to taste the fresh pili nuts.
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| DJC Restaurant's halo-halo |
When we arrived at Pacific Mall, it was already mid-afternoon. One of our friends told us that we should try halo-halo at DJC Restaurant. We readily agreed because we wanted dessert plus the weather outside was a bit hot.
DJC Restaurant was still full of diners when we got there but we soon got a table after a brief wait. We each ordered the special halo-halo, and we were glad that we did so. We were not disappointed with the generous amounts of sweets and toppings of our halo-halo.
What was unique about this version of halo-halo was that it was topped with cheese which lent a hint of saltiness to this sweet treat.
11. Visit Embarcadero de Legazpi
Location: Legazpi City, Albay
Our last stop for the day was Embarcadero de Legazpi, Legazpi City's well-known harborside shopping mall and multi-purpose activity center. This two-level shopping mall features shops, restaurants, a central event area, and business offices.
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| Embarcadero de Legazpi |
Located in the heart of this development is Embarcadero Hotel, a unique nautical-themed hotel that provides a stunning view of Mayon Volcano and Albay Gulf.
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| Exploring Embarcadero de Legazpi |
It was already late afternoon by the time we got to Embarcadero de Legazpi though so we did not stay long. We decided to go back to our hotel so that we can already have dinner and go to bed early.
Where to stay in Albay
Albay is home to a variety of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and inns. However, choosing your accommodation in Albay does not pose a challenge at all because your decision will depend on your budget and your choice of location. Personally, I like hotels that are near the airport so that already narrows the choices down.
Nonetheless, here is a list of the best hotels in Albay that you may want to consider when you visit the province.
1. Balay de la Rama Bed and Breakfast
Address: Banag, Daraga, Legazpi City, Albay
Balay de la Rama Bed and Breakfast is one of the best hotels that you can book when in Legazpi City. It was an antique house that was converted to a bed and breakfast. It was lovely, homey, and had local decorations so it was a beautiful accommodation overall. We found it perfect because it had a limited number of rooms which meant fewer people or not too crowded elevators and check-in counters.
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| Balay de la Rama Bed and Breakfast |
As I had mentioned earlier, we were initially checked in at Balay de la Rama but due to an unfortunate turn of events, we had to cancel our booking and transfer to another hotel. There was a mix-up because Balay de la Rama's information was not updated in Agoda. According to the website, all rooms featured separate showers and toilets, so we booked three family rooms.
When we got to our rooms, we were shocked to find out that it had shared bathrooms and toilets. As it turned out, only the three deluxe rooms had separate baths and showers while the three family rooms had shared showers and toilets. Only one deluxe room was available so we could not transfer anymore.
We requested for cancellation and the owner of Balay de la Rama was kind enough to cancel our booking and help us find a new hotel where we could stay for the night. We were able to book three rooms at Neuhaus Inn, and Balay de la Rama's owner was gracious enough to even drive us to Neuhaus Inn at no cost. That is admirable customer service. We were actually sorry about what happened because Balay de la Rama looked really good, smelled clean, and was well-maintained.
2. Neuhaus Inn
Address: Magayon Drive, Maroroy, Daraga, Legazpi City, Albay
From Balay de la Rama, we checked in at Neuhaus Inn. It featured clean and decent rooms at an affordable price but, to be honest, it felt like a downgrade. It's an average-looking accommodation and is perfect if you are looking for a place to spend a night or two. The lobby as well as the rest of the building looked plain. Neuhaus Inn offers good food though. I remember ordering rice, noodles, and bulalo soup here and the food was really delicious.
3. Lotus Blu Hotel
Address: Terminal Road, Brgy. Bitano, Ilawod, Legazpi City, Albay
Lotus Blu Hotel is one of the newer hotels in Legazpi City. It is best known for its convenient location which is just a stone's throw from some of the popular commercial areas of Legazpi City. Former guests said that the hotel lobby can get crowded at times because of its size. Service is consistently good though from the hotel's staff.
4. The Oriental Hotel Legazpi
Address: Sto. Nino Village, Old Albay, Legazpi City, Albay
The Oriental Hotel Legazpi is well-known for providing guests a great view of Mayon Volcano. Visitors who have checked in to this hotel have left commendation for its ideal location, delicious food, and the quality of service from the staff.
5. Embarcadero Hotel
Address: Embarcadero de Legazpi, Oro Site, Legazpi City, Albay
Embarcadero Hotel is one of the most recognizable hotels in Legazpi City. it provides a picturesque view of Albay Gulf with Mt. Mayon in the background. Embarcadero Hotel is also near some of the city's attractions as well as the airport, making it an easy choice for travelers.
Sample Itinerary
If you are planning a trip to Albay soon, you may refer to the sample itinerary below. This is an easy itinerary based on the places that our driver suggested. Feel free to make adjustments like adding a new place or two to this list.
Alternatively, when you get to Albay, you may want to ask around for non-touristy or off-the-beaten-path places from the locals if you want to see or discover a new destination. Lastly, since we traveled to Legazpi City by air, we will use that as a reference.
- NAIA departure - 6:00 AM
- Legazpi Domestic Airport arrival - 7:00 AM
- Rent a van - 7:15 AM
- Travel to the hotel - 7:30 AM
- Check-in - 8:15 AM
- Breakfast - 9:15 AM
- Daraga Church - 9:45 AM
- Cagsawa Ruins - 10:15 AM
- Lignon Hill Nature Park - 12:15 PM
- Vera Falls - 1:15 PM
- Tabaco Church - 1:45 PM
- Kawa-Kawa Hill and Natural Park - 2:15 PM
- Lunch - 3:00 PM
- DJC Halo-Halo or sili ice cream - 4:15 PM
- Embarcadero de Legazpi - 4:45 PM
- Return to the hotel - 5:00 PM
- Dinner - 6:00 PM
Epilogue
Albay is a destination that is fairly easy to explore. It can be explored via private or public transportation. However, we do recommend renting a van because locals would know their home province better.
In terms of sights, Mayon Volcano is always at the top of every traveler's list. While Mayon dominates Albay's geography, you can always ask your tour provider to take you to a location that provides a good view of the volcano. Alternatively, you can book a Mayon skyline tour for a more magnificent view of the volcano.
Lastly, Albay is rich in history and heritage, so do take advantage of the opportunity to get to know the province better. All in all, we consider our Albay trip as one of our most unforgettable.
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Such an adventure, totally make me miss Philippines more lol. I miss the food so bad there, great post.
ReplyDeletewww.aprilwashere.com
Thank you very much. Albay indeed packs a lot of adventures. I hope you were able to return to the Philippines.
DeleteLooks like such an amazing trip! Beautiful scenery and amazing food....does it get any better?
ReplyDelete-Clarissa @ The View From Here
Our Albay adventure was indeed an amazing trip. Thank you for dropping by.
DeleteWow that looks like such a fun trip. I would love to go sometime, thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYup, our Albay trip was really fun. I hope I was able to help you with this travel guide.
DeleteThe food looks amazing and those views are fabulous! Great review!
ReplyDeleteThank you very much! Bicolano food is indeed good.
DeleteI've never been to Bicol, so it's lovely to have vicariously traveled there through this blog. Hoping for better days when we can travel freely and safely.
ReplyDeleteHi Ivan, I'm from Albay!
ReplyDeleteReading your post is making me miss Albay so much. Nakakahiya man aminin but I'm from that province, but I haven't got the opportunity to fully explore my own place. Wasn't a priority back then.
Our last visit was in 2019 where we rented a car for a week (Php10k lang!) and we drove in some of the destination that we pass through, no itinerary pero sulit!
I’ve been to Albay for an event 3 years ago and yes ang ganda ng Albay. Sana we could all back to normal so we can go back there.
ReplyDelete-Dear Maje
A friend of mine lives somewhere there and I always wanted to come and visit. Would totally put all these activities in our itinerary!
ReplyDeleteWow, this is actually a great list however, I never been to Bicol and planning to travel soon pag okay na lang lahat.
ReplyDeletethanks for this! nagpunta na ako dito sa albay pero hindi ko masyado na enjoy. nakapag mayon ako pero we had to travel to masbate kasi kaya ayun di ko na naexperience ang iba pa. looking forward to visiting this again with my son
ReplyDeleteomg I wanna cry, I miss traveling :D Bicol was my last travel pre-pandemic. I didn't get to explore tho because we only stayed for a couple of days in Misibis Bay, but Bicol is really one of my favorite places I've been into. Thank you for sharing this. I can try them when I go back because I really wanna go back T_____T
ReplyDeleteThere are so many things to do in Albay plus I love that perfect shape of Mayon Volcano. I also like the idea of riding a train from Manila to Bicol. That would be so fun and full of adventure. I wish PH can also make a KTX just like here in Korea.
ReplyDeleteSorsogon actually has quite a lot to offer in terms of tourist spots and places to visit.
ReplyDeleteYes, I've always wanted to visit Sorsogon. Thank you for the recommendation.
DeleteAng gandA naman pala pala diyan🥰i want to explore albay
ReplyDeleteAng gandA naman pala pala diyan🥰i want to explore albay
ReplyDeleteWow, this is so nice place.. Sobrang ganda at hndi nakakasawang balik balikan 💕💕
ReplyDeleteAlbay looks amazing! Have been learning about Mt. Mayon since my primary school days but have never been all my life. Thanks for the travel guide! I hope that after the pandemic I can experience Albay and it's beauty.
ReplyDeleteI've never visited there but would love to, I was so impressed with everything in the Philippines, ro rich in scenery!!
ReplyDelete