More about Marinduque Province
Discover the Hidden Gems: Fun Facts About Marinduque, Philippines
Marinduque, a small island province located in the heart of the Philippines, is known for its rich history and culture. Dubbed as the "Heart of the Philippines," Marinduque is a hidden gem that offers a unique and authentic travel experience. Fun fact, Marinduque is the only province in the Philippines that has a heart-shaped landmass.
Aside from its unique shape, Marinduque is also home to the Moriones Festival, a week-long religious event held during the Holy Week. During the festival, locals wear colorful costumes and masks to reenact the story of Longinus, the Roman soldier who pierced the side of Jesus Christ with a spear. The festival is a must-see for tourists who want to experience the rich culture and traditions of Marinduque.
Another interesting fact about Marinduque is that it is the site of the Battle of Pulang Lupa, one of the most significant battles in Philippine history. The battle, which took place in 1900, was fought between Filipino revolutionaries and American forces. Today, visitors can visit the Pulang Lupa Shrine, a monument that commemorates the bravery of the Filipino soldiers who fought for their freedom.
Top Reasons to Visit Marinduque, the Heart of the Philippines
Marinduque may be a small island province, but it has a lot to offer to its visitors. Here are some of the top reasons why you should visit Marinduque:
1. Beautiful Beaches - Marinduque is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines. The beaches in the island are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Some of the best beaches in Marinduque include Poctoy White Beach, Tres Reyes Islands, and Maniwaya Island.
2. Rich History and Culture - Marinduque has a rich history and culture that is worth exploring. From the Moriones Festival to the Battle of Pulang Lupa, Marinduque has a lot of stories to tell.
3. Delicious Food - Marinduque is known for its delicious food, especially the local delicacy called "putong polo." Putong polo is a type of rice cake that is cooked in bamboo tubes and is usually served during special occasions.
4. Adventure Activities - Marinduque is also a great destination for adventure seekers. Visitors can go trekking, hiking, or spelunking in the island's caves and mountains.
How to Get to Marinduque: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Getting to Marinduque is easy, but it requires a bit of planning. Here's your ultimate travel guide to Marinduque:
1. By Air - The nearest airport to Marinduque is the Marinduque Airport, which is located in Gasan town. However, there are no commercial flights to Marinduque, so you have to take a chartered flight or a private plane.
2. By Land and Sea - The most common way to get to Marinduque is by land and sea. From Manila, take a bus to Lucena Grand Terminal. From there, take a jeepney or a van to Dalahican Port in Lucena City. From Dalahican Port, take a ferry to Balanacan Port in Marinduque. The ferry ride takes about 3 hours.
3. By Private Car - If you have your own car, you can take the Roll-on Roll-off (RORO) ferry from Batangas Port to Balanacan Port in Marinduque. The ferry ride takes about 4 hours.
10 Fun Things to Do in Marinduque for a Memorable Vacation
Marinduque may be a small island province, but it has a lot of activities to offer to its visitors. Here are 10 fun things to do in Marinduque for a memorable vacation:
1. Visit the Moriones Festival - The Moriones Festival is a must-see event in Marinduque. The festival is held during the Holy Week and features colorful costumes and masks.
2. Explore the Bathala Caves - The Bathala Caves are a network of caves located in the town of Sta. Cruz. Visitors can explore the caves and see the impressive limestone formations.
3. Relax at Poctoy White Beach - Poctoy White Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Marinduque. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
4. Trek to Mt. Malindig - Mt. Malindig is the highest peak in Marinduque. Visitors can go trekking to the summit and enjoy the breathtaking views of the island.
5. Visit the Boac Cathedral - The Boac Cathedral is a historic church that dates back to the Spanish colonial period. The church is a must-visit for history buffs.
6. Explore the Tres Reyes Islands - The Tres Reyes Islands are three small islands located off the coast of Marinduque. Visitors can go island hopping and enjoy the pristine beaches and clear waters.
7. Visit the Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa - The Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa is a luxury resort located in the town of Buenavista. The resort features a spa, infinity pool, and private villas.
8. Go Snorkeling at Maniwaya Island - Maniwaya Island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The island is home to a diverse marine life and colorful coral reefs.
9. Learn about Marinduque's History at the Boac Museum - The Boac Museum is a small museum that showcases the history and culture of Marinduque. The museum features artifacts and exhibits from the island's past.
10. Try the Local Delicacies - Marinduque is known for its delicious food, especially the local delicacy called "putong polo." Other must-try dishes include "sinigang na isda" and "adobo."
Why Book Your Marinduque Hotel with Agoda.com?
Agoda.com is the best website to book your Marinduque hotel for several reasons. First, Agoda.com offers a wide range of hotels in Marinduque, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Second, Agoda.com offers competitive rates and deals, ensuring that you get the best value for your money. Third, Agoda.com has a user-friendly website and mobile app that makes booking your hotel easy and hassle-free.
The Best Time to Visit Marinduque: A Seasonal Guide
The best time to visit Marinduque depends on your preferences and travel plans. Here's a seasonal guide to help you plan your trip:
1. Dry Season (November to May) - The dry season is the best time to visit Marinduque if you want to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. The weather is sunny and dry during these months, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and trekking.
2. Wet Season (June to October) - The wet season is not the best time to visit Marinduque if you want to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. The weather can be unpredictable, and there is a higher chance of typhoons and heavy rains.
Expert Tips for Travelers Visiting Marinduque for the First Time
If you're visiting Marinduque for the first time, here are some expert tips to help you make the most out of your trip:
1. Bring cash - There are limited ATMs in Marinduque, so it's best to bring enough cash for your trip.
2. Dress appropriately - Marinduque is a conservative province, so it's best to dress modestly, especially when visiting churches and other religious sites.
3. Respect the culture and traditions - Marinduque has a rich culture and traditions that should be respected by visitors. Be mindful of your actions and behavior, especially during the Moriones Festival.
4. Learn some basic Tagalog phrases - While English is widely spoken in Marinduque, learning some basic Tagalog phrases can help you communicate better with the locals.
Where to Stay in Marinduque: Your Ultimate Accommodation Guide
Marinduque offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Here are some of the best hotels in Marinduque:
1. Luxor Resort and Restaurant - This beachfront resort in Gasan offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves local and international dishes.
2. Balar Hotel and Spa - This hotel in Boac features a spa, outdoor pool, and a restaurant that serves Filipino cuisine.
3. The Boac Hotel - This historic hotel in Boac features comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves local and international dishes.
4. Nine Balconies Island Stay - This beachfront guesthouse in Maniwaya Island offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves Filipino cuisine.
5. Hotel Marinduque - This hotel in Boac features comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves Filipino cuisine.
Taste the Local Flavors: What to Eat in Marinduque
Marinduque is known for its delicious food, especially the local delicacy called "putong polo." Here are some other must-try dishes in Marinduque:
1. Sinigang na Isda - This sour soup dish is made with fish, vegetables, and tamarind broth.
2. Adobo - This classic Filipino dish is made with meat, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic.
3. Tamales - This steamed rice cake is made with ground rice, coconut milk, and meat or seafood.
Exploring Marinduque: How to Travel Around the Island
The best way to explore Marinduque is by renting a tricycle or a motorcycle. Tricycles are the most common mode of transportation in the island and are ideal for short trips. Motorcycles, on the other hand, are ideal for exploring the island's remote areas and beaches. You can also rent a car if you prefer to drive around the island. However, be mindful of the narrow and winding roads in Marinduque.
