Banaue - the 8th wonder of the world

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Banaue is located in Northern Philippines, 348 kms north of Manila, 333 kms North of Baguio City.

To reach this place is quite challenging, using a bus from Manila (Sampaloc). The journey takes 8 hours. Starting at 10:00 p.m., we reach Banaue around 6:00 a.m. in the morning.

I went there on February 2005. I started on Friday night and returned on Sunday night. The bus (the only one that goes there) is not a very good one.

I stayed at the Banaue Hotel, located in the center of Banaue. Nice hotel, very convenience for walking around. During the day trip, I usually walk around or can use a tricycle and Jeepney. This place is famous for the rice terraces. I can say this is the really amazing experience when I was in Philippines. The local people are very friendly.

There's many spots for viewing the rice terrace. From the tourist information booth in the market, a short walk from the hotel, I got directions on climbing the mountain and getting down to the village.

I was lucky, when I wanted to go to the village in the afternoon I met Robert Immotna. While chit-chatting with him, I found out he is also a guide. He knows many things about Banaue, including its history, and the best way to get there.

Robert and I went to the village, hiking about 30 km to reach it. It was really tiring but the view of the rice terraces from the top was worth it. No woner it is considered the 8th wonder of the world.

Banaue was the most challenging, but the best place I visited during my journey in Philippines.

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Places to visit:

* View Point: This place is 4800 feet above sea level, many spots to take good pictures, try to get here around 2-3 pm.

* Hapao: One of the few extensively stone-walled terraces built centuries ago. It is believed that this is where the terrace culture of the Ifugao started. It is located 9 km from Poblacion Hungduan.

* Batad: 3700 feet above sea level. To get here you must be a good hiker. From Benaue, it's about 16 km. Beautifully coloured rice terraces where tattoed men and women cultivate their daily staple.

* Banga-an: 3300 feet above sea level, great place to catch a rainbow in the afternoon (May-June).

Tips:

* Jacket and hat for the bus which is very cold.

* Book Hotel through the Internet. It's easy and you get special prices. Try Banaue Hotel.

* Call Robert Imotna for a guide (His Email: bertroimotna@yahoo.com. His Phone: +63 9206012025. Address: Tam-an Banaue, Banaue Ifugao. Phil 3601.)

* Don't be shy asking for directions. The people are very friendly.

* Travel light, and watch your belongings while on the bus.

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For more photos, see Banaue Photography Gallery

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Published on 3/5/06