“A very special trip, to a very special someone.”
All over the world, love is celebrated, and this month of Hearts we celebrate it with the people who gave us joy, a month to express the feelings of love, affection, and gratitude to the person we cherish. From friends, romantic partners, and especially family, it is the day that we are reminded of those people around us and what they mean to us. This month, Cupid is going to point his arrow at this very promising island where the people and the place have a warm and inviting spirit. Let’s go and have a Valentine’s Day trip to the Island of Mindanao!
Paseo Del Mar, Zamboanga City
¡Buenos días! Senior and Seniora, ¡bienvenidos a Asia’s Latin City, Zamboanga! When visiting or going on a trip in Zamboanga, never forget to have a walk on Paseo Del Mar, Paseo Del Mar means “a walk in the sea”, Paseo Del Mar is a go-to destination for people who want a stroll and watch a spectacularly breathtaking view of the ocean and sunset, the Paseo is located between the City’s Port and Fort Pillar. Paseo Del Mar is open from 6:00 pm to 12:00 am
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Right beside Fort Pilar, N S Valderosa Street, Zamboanga City, Philippines
- By Commute: You can take a bus operated by Rural Transit Mindanao, Incorporated (RTMI) from Pagadian City to Zamboanga City. The journey takes around 6 hours and 35 minutes. If you’re traveling from Pagadian City to Zamboanga City/Paseo Del Mar, bus fares can start from ₱270.00 to ₱900.00, and tricycle fares start at ₱30.00.
- By Car: If you have a privately owned car, you can drive yourself. The distance is around 271 km and it takes approximately 4 hours and 27 minutes. Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Paseo Del Mar, Zamboanga City” as your destination.
- Once you arrive in Zamboanga City, you can take a tricycle to Paseo del Mar.
Lake Dasay, Zamboanga del Sur
In the heart of Zamboanga del Sur lies a hidden gem: Lake Dasay, a tranquil mountain retreat. This lovely haven is ideal for couples looking to fill their hearts with joy. Let us lose ourselves in the tranquil beauty of this lake, where the calm waters mirror our affection and transform each moment into a treasured memory.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Municipality of San Miguel, Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines
- By car: This is the quickest route, covering roughly 108 km in two to three hours. First, travel to Pagadian City via car or cab from Dapitan City. Proceed to San Miguel and then Lake Dasay by following the guidelines.
- By buses or vans: Another option is to take public transportation, such as a bus or shared vehicle, to Pagadian City. To go to San Miguel and Lake Dasay from Pagadian, you’ll need to use the local public transportation system or rent a habal-habal (motorbike).
- Ferry and Bus: For an alternative, you can travel to Ozamiz City by ferry, transfer to Pagadian by bus, and then repeat the process. This route is more picturesque but may take longer.
Camiguin Island
From Zamboanga let’s go to the northern part of Mindanao, let’s go on a trip to a volcanic island, an island Born in Fire, Camiguin Island. The island of Camiguin is also a romantic destination, the island’s white sand, a serene sand bar are a perfect spot for a romantic picnic at the beach and a perfect spot to watch the stunning view of the island’s mountain, Mount Hibok-Hibok.
HOW TO GET TO THERE?
Exact Location: Camiguin Island, Northern Mindanao
- Head to the White Island Ferry Terminal in Mambajao: Most visitors to White Island start their journey from here. The terminal is conveniently located right next to Paras Beach Resort.
- Take a boat: Boats operate from around 5:30 am to 5:30 pm daily. The boat ride itself takes about 10 minutes to reach White Island.
- Fees: Expect to pay an entrance fee of ₱50 per person and a pump boat fee of ₱550, which can seat up to six people. You can purchase your ticket at the small ticketing office at the ferry terminal.
The Ardent Hot Spring of Camiguin
After a long day at the beach, why not relax? The hot spring of the Island is also good for couples to relax and enjoy the moment, the Ardent Hot Springs is the best place to unwind with your partner. A nice warm bath would be nice to end the day on the Island.
HOW TO GET TO THERE?
Exact Location: Ardent Hot Springs Location: Esperanza, Tagdo, Mambajao, Camiguin, Philippines
- From Mambajao: Ardent Hot Springs is located in Esperanza Tagdo, Mambajao, Camiguin. If you’re staying in or around the main town of Mambajao, you can easily reach the hot springs by renting a scooter or taking a tricycle. It’s approximately a 10-minute drive from the center of Mambajao.
- By scooter: Renting a scooter is a popular choice for travelers in Camiguin. This gives you the flexibility to explore other attractions on the island as well. Rental shops in Mambajao charge around ₱350 per day for a scooter.
- By tricycle: You can also hire a tricycle from Mambajao to take you to the hot springs. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive.
Siargao Island
Saving the best for last, the Island of Siargao is dubbed as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, but in the eyes of a romantic person, Siargao can be a romantic and valentines day destination in Mindanao. Siargao’s boardwalk, the Cloud 9 Boardwalk is known for a surfing spot on the island, but the boardwalk can also be a romantic place where couples walk and watch the setting sun. “You really would not believe your eyes”, if I told you that there is a very secret beach in Siargao where you can see the starry nights of Siargao and its twinkling fireflies. The firefly watching is a boat tour to watch the fireflies and if you are lucky you can get to see the bioluminescent planktons, well isn’t that very romantic?
HOW TO GET THERE
Exact Location: Surigao Del Norte, Philippines
- Direct Flight: The quickest way is to fly. You can catch a direct flight from Laguindingan International Airport (CGY) to Sayak Airport (IAO) in Siargao. This flight takes around 3 hours and 44 minutes.
